Developing unit, image forming apparatus incorporating same, and process cartridge including same
US8331834B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 26, 2009 |
| Grant date | Dec 11, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 9, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG03G2215/0634
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A developing unit includable in a process cartridge and in an image forming apparatus includes a developer bearing member including a magnetic field generator and a nonmagnetic hollow member, a developer container, an agitation/conveyance member, and a developer regulating member. The magnetic field generator has first and second magnetic poles to generate respective magnetic forces for removing the developer from the developer bearing member after the developer passes the development region. A developer-releasing region releases the developer from the developer bearing member using a release force. The developer is disposed higher than a surface of the developer in the developer storing chamber. A component of a magnetic flux density of the magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generator in a direction normal to the developer-releasing region is directed to a same direction as the first and second magnetic poles across the developer-releasing region without forming a local maximum point.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.