Toner supply method, development device, process unit, and image forming apparatus
US8571426B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 19, 2011 |
| Grant date | Oct 29, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 2, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG03G15/556
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A toner supply method includes detecting whether a remaining toner amount in the development device is equal to or greater than a first remaining amount, supplying a first supply amount of toner to the development device in a first supply mode when the remaining toner amount is not greater than the first remaining amount, detecting whether the remaining toner amount in the development device is equal to or greater than a second remaining amount smaller than the first remaining amount, and supplying a second supply amount, smaller than the first supply amount, of toner to the development device in a second supply mode when the remaining toner amount is reduced to or below the second remaining amount.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.