Developer container with detection sensor to detect developer in storage space and image forming apparatus including the same
US9354547B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 23, 2014 |
| Grant date | May 31, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 23, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG03G15/0893
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A developer container includes a container body, a movable wall, and a detection sensor. The container body includes an inner surface defining a cylindrical internal space. The internal space is in the form of a cylinder extending in a first direction. The container body is formed with a developer discharge port communicating with the internal space. The movable wall includes an outer surface and a conveying surface. The outer surface is disposed in close contact with the inner surface of the container body. The conveying surface defines a storage space configured to contain the developer in cooperation with the inner surface of the container body. The movable wall moves in the first direction from one end side to the other end side of the internal space. The detection sensor is provided on the container body near the developer discharge port and detects the developer in the storage space.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.