Toner container, image forming apparatus, and gate unit

Abstract

A toner container includes a shutter and a seal. The shutter moves in conjunction with a movement of the toner container in a mounting direction in which the toner container is mounted to an image forming apparatus, and is pushed by a nozzle of the image forming apparatus. The shutter causes the nozzle to be inserted into the toner container, and causes the nozzle to communicate with the toner container via an opening on a peripheral surface of the nozzle. The seal covers a peripheral surface of the shutter in a closed state in which the shutter is not pushed by the nozzle, and the peripheral surface of the shutter is in sliding contact with a peripheral surface of the nozzle at the time of an opening operation in which the shutter is pushed by the nozzle. A length of the seal in the mounting direction is longer than a length of the opening of the nozzle in the mounting direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a toner container in which toner is stored, an imaging device including the toner container, and a gate unit disposed in the toner container. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, imaging devices such as copiers, printers, fax machines, and multifunction peripheral devices (MFPs) that include at least two of these devices, have widely been known to include imaging devices in which a cylindrical toner container (i.e., a powder container) is detachably mounted (see, for example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2016-018003). Specifically, the toner container (i.e., the powder container) in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2016-018003 includes a gate (i.e., a container gate) that is pushed by a nozzle (i.e., a delivery tube) disposed in the body of the imaging device, along with the installation action of the toner container into the body of the imaging device. Furthermore, when the nozzle pushes the gate component, the nozzle is inserted into the toner container as is. The nozzle and the toner container are interconnected through an opening formed on the outer peripheral surface of the nozzle (i.e., a nozzle opening). In this way, the toner stored in the toner container can be discharged to the outside through the nozzle.

[0003] Citation List

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] [PTL 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2016-018003 Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical issues

[0007] When a conventional toner container is removed from the body of an imaging device, toner may scatter near the gate. This disclosure addresses this problem by providing a toner container, imaging device, and gate unit in which toner scattering is unlikely to occur when the toner container is removed from the body of the imaging device.

[0008] Solution to the problem

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a toner container is detachably mounted to the body of an imaging device, and the toner container includes a gate and a seal. The gate and the toner container are linked in movement in the mounting direction of the imaging device, and are pushed by a nozzle of the imaging device. The gate allows the nozzle to be inserted into the toner container, and the nozzle communicates with the toner container via an opening on its circumferential surface. The seal covers the circumferential surface of the gate in a closed state when it is not pushed by the nozzle, and slides in contact with the circumferential surface of the nozzle when the gate is opened by the nozzle. The length of the seal in the mounting direction is longer than the length of the opening of the nozzle in the mounting direction.

[0010] Effects of the present invention

[0011] According to the present invention, a toner container, an imaging device, and a gate unit can be provided, wherein toner scattering is unlikely to occur when the toner container is removed from the body of the imaging device. Attached Figure Description

[0012] The accompanying drawings are intended to illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention and should not be construed as limiting its scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the drawings should not be considered to be drawn to scale. Furthermore, in several views, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar parts.

[0013] [ Figure 1 ]

[0014] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the overall configuration of an imaging apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] [ Figure 2 ]

[0016] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the imaging unit of the imaging device in the image.

[0017] [ Figure 3 ]

[0018] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the toner supply device for an imaging device and its surroundings.

[0019] [ Figure 4 ]

[0020] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the main part of the toner container.

[0021] [Figure 5]

[0022] Figure 5A This is a schematic diagram illustrating the action of installing a toner delivery nozzle into a toner container. Figure 5B This is a schematic diagram illustrating the action of installing a toner delivery nozzle into a toner container. Figure 5C This is a schematic diagram showing the action of installing a toner delivery nozzle into a toner container.

[0023] [Figure 6]

[0024] Figure 6A This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the toner container before the gate moves. Figure 6B This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the toner container after the gate has been moved.

[0025] [ Figure 7 ]

[0026] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the main parts of the toner container of the first variant example.

[0027] [ Figure 8 ]

[0028] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A perspective view of the gate unit in the toner container.

[0029] [Figure 9]

[0030] Figure 9A This is a cross-sectional view of another example showing the main part of the toner container in the first variant example. Figure 9B This is a cross-sectional view showing yet another example of the main part of the toner container in the first variant.

[0031] [ Figure 10 ]

[0032] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing the main part of the toner container in the second variant example.

[0033] [ Figure 11 ]

[0034] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 A perspective view of the gate unit in the toner container.

[0035] [Figure 12]

[0036] Figure 12A This is a cross-sectional view of another example showing the main part of the toner container in the second variant. Figure 12B This is a cross-sectional view showing yet another example of the main part of the toner container in the second variant.

[0037] [ Figure 13 ]

[0038] Figure 13This is a schematic diagram showing the main part of the toner container in the third variant example.

[0039] [ Figure 14 ]

[0040] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 A perspective view of the gate unit in the toner container.

[0041] [ Figure 15 ]

[0042] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram showing the main part of the toner container in the fourth variant example.

[0043] [ Figure 16 ]

[0044] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 A perspective view of the gate unit in the toner container.

[0045] [ Figure 17 ]

[0046] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram showing the main parts of the toner container in the fifth variant example.

[0047] [ Figure 18 ]

[0048] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 A perspective view of the gate unit in the toner container.

[0049] [ Figure 19 ]

[0050] Figure 19 This is a perspective view of another example of the gate unit in the toner container in the fifth variant. Detailed Implementation

[0051] The terms used herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Specific terms have been used for clarity in describing the embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. However, the disclosure of this specification is not intended to be limited to the selected specific terms, and it should be understood that each specific element includes all technical equivalents that have similar functionality, operate in a similar manner, and achieve similar results.

[0052] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals are assigned to the same or equivalent parts, the description of which may be simplified or omitted.

[0053] Below, refer to Figures 1-3 Explain the structure and operation of the imaging device 100. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the printer, which is the imaging device 100. Figure 2 This is an enlarged schematic diagram of the imaging unit 6Y of the imaging device 100. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the toner replenishment device 90 and its surrounding structure. (See diagram for reference.) Figure 1 As shown, the main body of the imaging device 100 includes a mounting section 31 (serving as a toner container receiving platform), in which generally cylindrical toner containers 32Y, 32M, 32C, and 32K are detachably mounted. That is, the four toner containers 32Y, 32M, 32C, and 32K correspond to four colors: yellow, magenta, cyan, and black. Below the toner containers 32Y, 32M, 32C, and 32K, hoppers 81Y, 81M, 81C, and 81K of toner replenishment devices are respectively provided. An intermediate transfer unit 15 is disposed below the mounting section 31. Imaging units 6Y, 6M, 6C, and 6K are arranged side-by-side, facing the intermediate transfer belt 8 of the intermediate transfer unit 15, to form toner images of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, respectively.

[0054] Reference Figure 2 The imaging unit 6Y for yellow includes a photosensitive drum 1Y (used as an image carrier), a charging device 4Y, a developing device 5Y, a cleaning device 2Y, and a static elimination device arranged around the photosensitive drum 1Y. Imaging processes (i.e., charging, exposure, developing, transfer, cleaning, and static elimination) are performed on the photosensitive drum 1Y, thus forming a yellow toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 1Y.

[0055] The other three imaging units 6M, 6C, and 6K have almost the same configuration as the imaging unit 6Y, which corresponds to yellow, except for the color of the toner used. Therefore, only imaging unit 6Y will be described below, and the descriptions of the other three imaging units 6M, 6C, and 6K will be omitted as appropriate.

[0056] Reference Figure 2 The photosensitive drum 1Y is driven by a motor towards Figure 2 Rotate clockwise. The charging device 4Y uniformly charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 1Y (charging process). When the surface of the photosensitive drum 1Y reaches the exposure device 7 (i.e., the writing device, see...) Figure 1 When the emitted laser beam L illuminates the surface of the photoreceptor drum 1Y, the photoreceptor drum 1Y is scanned with the exposure light L. Therefore, an electrostatic latent image corresponding to yellow is formed on the photoreceptor drum 1Y (exposure process).

[0057] When the surface of the photosensitive drum 1Y reaches the position facing the developing unit 5Y, the electrostatic latent image is developed into a yellow toner image using toner (developing process). When the surface of the photosensitive drum 1Y carrying the toner image reaches the position facing the primary transfer roller 9Y via the intermediate transfer belt 8, the toner image on the photosensitive drum 1Y is transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 8 (primary transfer process). After the primary transfer process, a small amount of untransferred toner remains on the photosensitive drum 1Y.

[0058] When the surface of the photoreceptor drum 1Y reaches the position facing the cleaning device 2Y, the cleaning blade 2a collects the untransferred toner from the photoreceptor drum 1Y into the cleaning device 2Y (cleaning process). When the surface of the photoreceptor drum 1Y reaches the position facing the anti-static device, residual potential is removed from the surface of the photoreceptor drum 1Y. Thus, a series of imaging processes performed on the surface of the photoreceptor drum 1Y are completed.

[0059] Other imaging units 6M, 6C, and 6K perform the aforementioned series of imaging processes in essentially the same manner as imaging unit 6Y. Specifically, the exposure device 7, positioned below imaging units 6M, 6C, and 6K, illuminates the photoreceptor drums 1M, 1C, and 1K of imaging units 6M, 6C, and 6K respectively with a laser beam L based on image data. In detail, in the exposure device 7, a light source emits a laser beam L, which is deflected by a rotating polygonal mirror. The laser beam L then reaches the photoreceptor drum 1 via multiple optical elements. Therefore, the exposure device 7 scans the surface of each photoreceptor drum 1M, 1C, and 1K with the laser L. Then, the toner image formed on the photoreceptor drums 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K through the development process is transferred and superimposed onto the intermediate transfer belt 8. Thus, a color toner image is formed on the intermediate transfer belt 8.

[0060] The intermediate transfer unit 15 includes an intermediate transfer belt 8, four primary transfer rollers 9Y, 9M, 9C, and 9K, a secondary transfer support roller 12, a cleaning support roller 13, a tension roller 14, and an intermediate transfer belt cleaner 10. The intermediate transfer belt 8 is tensioned and supported by three rollers (i.e., the secondary transfer support roller 12, the cleaning support roller 13, and the tension roller 14). As one of the rollers used as a drive roller (i.e., the secondary transfer support roller 12) rotates, the intermediate transfer belt 8 moves towards the direction of rotation. Figure 1 The arrows shown indicate the direction of rotation.

[0061] Four primary transfer rollers 9Y, 9M, 9C, and 9K, together with four photosensitive drums 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K, clamp the intermediate transfer belt 8, thus forming four primary transfer clamping portions between the intermediate transfer belt 8 and the photosensitive drums 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K. A primary transfer bias, opposite to the toner polarity, is applied to the primary transfer rollers 9Y, 9M, 9C, and 9K. The intermediate transfer belt 8... Figure 1The image moves in the direction indicated by the arrows, sequentially passing through the primary transfer clamping section formed by primary transfer rollers 9Y, 9M, 9C, and 9K. Therefore, the yellow, magenta, cyan, and black toner images on the photosensitive drums 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K are transferred and superimposed onto the intermediate transfer belt 8, thereby forming a multi-tone toner image.

[0062] Subsequently, the intermediate transfer belt 8 carrying the multi-tone toner image reaches a position opposite to the secondary transfer roller 19. At the position facing the secondary transfer roller 19, the secondary transfer support roller 12 and the secondary transfer roller 19 clamp the intermediate transfer belt 8 to form a secondary transfer clamping section. The four-tone toner image (i.e., yellow, magenta, cyan, and black) superimposed on the intermediate transfer belt 8 is then transferred to the sheet P (e.g., paper) conveyed to the secondary transfer clamping section (secondary transfer process). At this time, untransferred toner remains on the intermediate transfer belt 8 as residual toner.

[0063] Subsequently, the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 8 reaches a position opposite to the intermediate transfer belt cleaner 10. At this position, the intermediate transfer belt cleaner collects the untransferred toner from the intermediate transfer belt 8. Thus, a series of transfer processes performed on the intermediate transfer belt 8 are completed.

[0064] The sheet P is conveyed from the sheet feeder 26, located in the lower part of the main body of the imaging device 100, to the secondary transfer clamping section via the feed roller 27 and the positioning roller pair 28. Specifically, the sheet feeder 26 contains multiple stacked sheets P, such as one sheet of paper stacked on top of another. When the feed roller 27 is in Figure 1 When rotating counterclockwise, the supply roller 27 supplies the uppermost sheet P from the sheet feeder 26 to be held between the rollers of the positioning roller pair 28.

[0065] The sheet P, conveyed to the positioning roller pair 28 (used as a timing roller pair), is temporarily stopped at the roller clamping point between the stopped rotating rollers of the positioning roller pair 28. Thereafter, the positioning roller pair 28 rotates to convey the sheet P to the secondary transfer clamping section, which is synchronized with the multi-tone toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 8. Therefore, the desired color toner image is transferred onto the sheet P.

[0066] Subsequently, the sheet P onto which the multicolor image is transferred at the secondary transfer clamping section is conveyed to the fixing device 20. Then, at this location, the color image transferred to the surface of the sheet P is fixed onto the sheet P by heat and pressure from the fixing roller and pressure roller (fixing process). Afterward, the sheet P carrying the fixed toner image is conveyed through the space between the rollers formed by the output roller pair 29, and discharged by the output roller pair 29 to the outside of the imaging device 100. The sheet P discharged by the output roller pair 29 is sequentially stacked on the stacking tray 30 as an output image. Thus, a series of imaging processes performed by the imaging device 100 are completed.

[0067] Next, refer to Figure 2 This document provides a detailed description of the structure and operation of the developing apparatus, which serves as the replenishment unit for the imaging process. The developing apparatus 5Y includes a developing roller 51, a doctor blade 52, two delivery screws 55, and a toner detector 56. The developing roller 51 faces the photosensitive drum 1Y. The doctor blade 52 faces the developing roller 51. The two delivery screws 55 are disposed within developer containers 53 and 54. The toner detector 56 detects the toner concentration in the developer G. The developing roller 51Y includes a magnet and a sleeve. The magnet is fixed inside the developing roller 51Y. The sleeve rotates around the magnet. The developer containers 53 and 54 contain a two-component developer G comprising a carrier (i.e., carrier particles) and a toner (i.e., toner particles).

[0068] The developing apparatus 5Y described above operates as follows: The sleeve of the developing roller 51 moves along... Figure 2 The developer G rotates in the direction indicated by the arrow in the diagram. The developer is carried on the developing roller 51 by a magnetic field generated by a magnet. As the sleeve rotates, the developer G moves along the circumference of the developing roller 51. The developer G in the developing unit 5Y is adjusted so that the ratio of toner in the developer G (i.e., the toner concentration) is within a predetermined range. Specifically, the toner replenishment device 90 (see...) serves as a replenishment device. Figure 3 Toner is supplied from toner container 32Y to developer container 54 according to toner consumption in developing unit 5Y (see...). Figure 2 ).

[0069] The toner supplied to developer container 54 is stirred and mixed with developer G by two delivery screws 55, and circulated through two developer containers 53 and 54 (i.e., perpendicular to the direction of the flow). Figure 2 (The paper moves longitudinally). The toner in the developer G becomes charged through friction with the carrier, and is thus attracted to the carrier. Both the toner and the carrier are supported on the developing roller 51 by the magnetic force generated on the developing roller 51. The developer G supported on the developing roller 51 moves along... Figure 3 The developer is conveyed in the direction indicated by the middle arrow, reaching the position opposite to the doctor blade 52Y. The doctor blade 52 adjusts the developer dosage carried on the developing roller 51 to an appropriate amount. Thereafter, the developer on the developing roller 51 is conveyed to the position opposite to the photosensitive drum 1Y (i.e., the developing area). The toner is attracted to the latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 1Y by the electric field generated in the developing area. Subsequently, as the sleeve rotates, the developer remaining on the developing roller 51 reaches the upper part of the developer container 53 and separates from the developing roller 51.

[0070] Next, refer to Figure 3 Briefly describe the structure and operation of the toner replenishment device 90, which serves as a replenishment device. The toner replenishment device 90 operates along a predetermined direction (i.e., along...). Figure 3The toner container 32Y (i.e., powder container) is rotated in the direction indicated by the arrow in the diagram, driving the container body 33 of the toner container 32Y (i.e., powder container) located in the mounting section 31 to discharge the toner contained in the toner container 32Y to the outside of the toner container 32Y, and guide the toner to the developing device 5Y, which serves as the replenishment unit, via the auxiliary hopper 70. The toner replenishment device 90 includes a toner replenishment path (i.e., toner transport path). To facilitate understanding of the structure of the toner replenishment device 90, the toner container 32Y, the toner replenishment device 90, and the developing device 5Y are described in detail below. Figure 3 The arrangement is shown in a different orientation than the actual layout. In reality, the longitudinal axis of a portion of the toner container 32Y and the toner replenishment device 90 is perpendicular to... Figure 3 The paper shown (see) Figure 1 Furthermore, the orientation and arrangement of the delivery pipes 95 and 96 are also shown in a simplified manner.

[0071] The toner replenishment device 90 supplies color toner contained in toner containers 32Y, 32M, 32C, and 32K, which are mounted in the mounting section 31 of the main body of the imaging device 100, to the corresponding developing units 5Y, 5M, 5C, and 5K, respectively. The amount of toner replenished to each developing unit 5 is determined based on the amount of toner consumed in the corresponding developing unit 5. Except for the color of the toner used in the imaging process, the four toner replenishment devices 90 have similar structures. Specifically, see reference... Figure 3 (as well as Figures 5A to 5C When the toner container 32Y is installed into the mounting portion 31 of the main body of the imaging device 100, the toner delivery nozzle 91 (i.e., the nozzle) of the imaging device 100 pushes and moves the gate 35 of the toner container 32Y. As a result, the toner delivery nozzle 91 is inserted into the toner container 32Y (i.e., the container body 33) through the through hole 34a1. Therefore, the toner contained in the toner container 32Y can be discharged through the toner delivery nozzle 91. The toner container 32Y includes a bottom (i.e., Figure 3 The grip portion 33d (on the left side of the container body 33) allows the user to easily hold and install the toner container 32Y in the mounting portion 31. The grip portion 33d has an outer diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the container body 33. The user holds the grip portion 33d to install the toner container 32Y in the mounting portion 31 or to remove the toner container 32Y from the mounting portion 31.

[0072] Reference Figure 3 The toner container 32Y includes a container body 33, which has a longitudinal direction along the container body 33 (i.e., Figure 3The spiral groove 33a extends in both the left-right direction and the axial direction. Specifically, the spiral groove 33a is formed from the outer peripheral surface to the inner peripheral surface of the container body 33, causing the container body 33 to rotate and displace the toner in the container body 33 from... Figure 3 The material is transported from the left side to the right side within the container body 33. Figure 3 The toner, conveyed from left to right, is discharged to the outside of the toner container 32Y via the toner delivery nozzle 91. In this embodiment, the container body 33, having a spiral groove 33a, is driven to rotate to convey the toner. Alternatively, the toner container 32Y can be driven to rotate, causing the toner to flow from the container body 33 through the container body 32Y. Figure 3 The toner is conveyed from the left to the right. For example, an inclined surface can be formed inside the container body 33 or on the inner circumferential surface of the container body 33 to convey the toner to the right by driving rotation. Additionally, the toner container 32Y includes a gear 37 that meshes with the drive gear 110 of the imaging device 100. On the outer circumferential surface of the head of the container body 33 (in...) Figure 3 A gear 37 is positioned on the right side of the container body 33. When the toner container 32Y is installed into the mounting section 31, the gear 37 of the container body 33 meshes with the drive gear 110 of the imaging device 100. When the drive motor 115 is driven, driving force is transmitted from the drive gear 110 to the gear 37, thereby causing the container body 33 to rotate. The drive motor 115 and the drive gear 110 function as drivers that rotate the container body 33. The structure and operation of the toner container 32Y will be described in more detail later.

[0073] Reference Figure 3 The conveying screw 92 is located inside the toner delivery nozzle 91. When the motor 93 rotates the conveying screw 92, the conveying screw 92 delivers toner from the opening 91a (i.e., the inlet) in the toner container 32Y. Figures 5A to 5C The toner flowing into the toner delivery nozzle 91 from Figure 3 The toner is conveyed from the left to the right. Therefore, the toner is discharged into the hopper 81 through the outlet groove of the toner delivery nozzle 91. The hopper 81 is positioned below the outlet groove of the toner delivery nozzle 91 via a drop path 82. The toner stored in the hopper 81 is conveyed downstream to the developing unit 5 via a conveyor. Hereinafter, it is indicated that... Figure 3The conveyor structure of the conveyor. A suction port 83 is provided at the bottom of the hopper 81, which is connected to one end of the conveying pipe 95. The conveying pipe 95 is made of a flexible rubber material with low affinity for toner, and the other end of the conveying pipe 95 is connected to the developer pump 60 (i.e., a diaphragm pump). The developer pump 60 is connected to the developing apparatus 5Y via the auxiliary hopper 70 and the conveying pipe 96. In the toner replenishment device 90 with this configuration, a drive motor 115, acting as a driver, rotates the container body 33 of the toner container 32Y to discharge the toner stored in the toner container 32Y to the outside of the toner container 32Y through the toner delivery nozzle 91. The toner discharged from the toner container 32Y falls through the drop path 82 and is stored in the hopper 81. The developing pump 60 operates, drawing toner stored in hopper 81 along with air through suction port 83 and conveying it from the developing pump 60 to auxiliary hopper 70 via delivery pipe 95. The toner delivered to and stored in auxiliary hopper 70 is then appropriately supplied to the developing apparatus 5Y via delivery pipe 96. That is, the toner in toner container 32Y flows along... Figure 3 The conveyor is transported in the direction indicated by the dashed arrow in the diagram. The conveyor is not limited to the above-described structure; for example, the toner stored in hopper 81 can be directly transported to the developing unit 5Y via a screw installed in hopper 81.

[0074] A toner sensor 86 is positioned near the suction port 83 to indirectly detect whether the toner contained in the toner container 32Y is depleted (i.e., the toner is exhausted) or nearly depleted (i.e., the toner is close to being used up). Based on the detection result of the toner sensor 86, toner is discharged from the toner container 32Y. For example, a piezoelectric sensor or a transmitted light sensor can be used as the toner sensor 86. The height of the detection surface of the toner sensor 86 is set such that the amount of toner accumulated above the suction port 83 (i.e., the accumulation height) is a target value. Based on the detection result of the toner sensor 86, the driving timing and driving duration of the drive motor 115 are controlled to drive the toner container 32Y (i.e., the container body 33) to rotate. Specifically, when the toner sensor 86 detects that no toner has accumulated on the detection surface of the toner sensor 86, the drive motor 115 is driven for a predetermined time. When the toner sensor 86 detects the presence of toner on the detection surface, the drive motor 115 stops. If the toner sensor 86 continuously detects the absence of toner on the detection surface even when the above control is repeatedly executed, the controller of the imaging device determines that the toner stored in the toner container 32Y is depleted (i.e., the toner is exhausted) or the toner contained in the toner container 32Y is almost depleted (i.e., the toner is nearly exhausted).

[0075] Next, refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5C Further details are provided for toner containers 32Y, 32M, 32C, and 32K. Figure 4 , Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5C This is a cross-sectional side view of the toner container 32Y. The above figure is from... Figure 3 The toner container 32Y is shown in the opposite direction. The above diagram is now reversed.

[0076] As referenced above Figures 1 to 3 The toner container 32Y stores toner and is detachably mounted to the main body of the imaging device 100. (See reference...) Figure 4 , Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5C The toner container 32Y includes a container body 33 and a gate unit (i.e., including a retainer 34, a gate 35, a rod 36, and a compression spring 38). The gate unit includes a retainer 34, a gate 35, a rod 36, and a compression spring 38. The retainer 34 has an attachment 34a that serves as a cap. The container body 33 is fixed to the attachment 34a (retainer 34) and is a bottle with a spiral groove 33a formed on the inner circumferential surface of the container body 33. When the toner container 32Y is installed in the main body (i.e., the mounting part 31) of the imaging device 100, the retainer 34 (with attachment 34a, as well as the gate 35, rod 36, and compression spring 38) and the container body 33 are driven to rotate by a drive motor 115, which serves as a driver, provided in the main body (i.e., the mounting part 31) of the imaging device 100, and the toner stored in the toner container 32Y is discharged through the toner delivery nozzle 91.

[0077] Reference Figure 4 , Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5C The gate 35, linked to the installation action of the toner container 32Y onto the main body of the imaging device 100, opens and closes the through-hole 34a1, into which the toner delivery nozzle 91 (installed in the main body of the imaging device 100) is inserted. The gate 35 is made of resin material and is integrally molded with the rod 36, described later. The gate 35 fits into the through-hole 34a1 from the inside of the toner container 32Y and is locked so as not to detach from the container body 33. When the through-hole 34a1 is closed by the gate 35, toner does not discharge to the outside of the toner container 32Y. When the through-hole 34a1 is open by the gate 35, toner discharges to the outside of the toner container 32Y. The through-hole 34a1 is a generally cylindrical through-hole centered on the rotation center of the container body 33. The gate 35 is a bolt-shaped component that fits into the through-hole 34a1 of this shape.

[0078] The toner container 32Y includes a seal 40 to seal the gap between the gate 35 and the through-hole 34a1 when the through-hole 34a1 is closed. Specifically, the seal 40 is made of an elastic material such as foamed polyurethane or felt and is adhered to the attachment 34a along the entire inner circumferential surface of the through-hole 34a1. With the through-hole 34a1 closed by the gate 35, the seal 40 seals the gap between the gate 35 and the through-hole 34a1. The seal 40 also seals the gap between the toner delivery nozzle 91 and the through-hole 34a1, thereby preventing leakage of toner stored in the container body 33 from the through-hole 34a1 when the through-hole 34a1 is open by the gate 35. In this embodiment, the longitudinal length M of the seal 40 is longer than the length N of the opening 91a of the toner delivery nozzle 91 in the insertion direction of the toner delivery nozzle 91 into the toner container 32Y. This configuration will be described in detail later.

[0079] Rod 36 is integrated with gate 35. Rod 36 is located within toner container 32Y along the opening and closing direction of gate 35 (i.e., Figure 4 , Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5C Extending in the left and right directions (as shown in the image). Figure 4 As shown, rod 36 is configured such that its axis is approximately aligned with the rotation center of container body 33. This helps to suppress undesirable situations such as positional displacement of gate 35 when container body 33 is driven to rotate.

[0080] Reference Figure 4 , Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5C The retainer 34 includes an attachment 34a (i.e., a cap) and an extension 34b, and is fixed to the container body 33. The retainer 34 receives rotational driving force from the body of the imaging device and rotates together with the container body 33 around the toner delivery nozzle 91.

[0081] The accessory 34a (i.e., the cover) of the retainer 34 has a through hole 34a1 in the direction in which the toner delivery nozzle 91 is inserted (i.e., the insertion direction). Figure 4 , Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5C It is vertically arranged (in the left-right direction). Attachment 34a has an opening 34a2 (i.e., a cavity) that faces upstream of the insertion direction of the toner delivery nozzle 91 (i.e., in the left-right direction). Figure 4 , Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5CThe opening is located upstream of the insertion direction and to the left side of the toner container 32Y. The opening 34a2 is a roughly cylindrical recess centered on the rotation center of the container body 33.

[0082] The extension 34b of the retainer 34 is inside the toner container 32Y, on the opposite side to the side where the gate 35 is located (i.e., Figure 4 , Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5C A rod 36 is formed on the right side of the container 32Y, allowing the rod 36 to move in the opening and closing directions. The extension 34b is formed in a generally horseshoe shape so that it can be inserted inside the toner container 32Y (i.e., the container body 33). Figure 4 , Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5C It extends in the left-right direction. A compression spring 38, acting as a force-applying component, is wound around the rod 36 between the gate 35 and the wall of the extension 34b. The compression spring 38 extends in the direction of closing the through hole 34a1 (i.e., towards...). Figure 4 , Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5C (Left side) Bias gate 35.

[0083] In this configuration, the gate 35 is linked to the installation action of the toner container 32Y toward the main body (i.e., mounting part 31) of the imaging device 100. Driven by the toner delivery nozzle 91, it resists the biasing force of the compression spring 38 (i.e., biasing member) and moves together with the rod 36 inside the toner container 32Y, opening the through hole 34a1. Specifically, the gate 35 (and the rod 36) with... Figure 5A and Figure 5C The sequence shown is moved to open the through-hole 34a1. Conversely, the gate 35 is linked to the action of removing the toner container 32Y from the main body (i.e., mounting part 31) of the imaging device 100, causing the toner delivery nozzle 91 to release from the aforementioned pushed state. The biasing force of the compression spring 38 causes the gate 35 and the rod 36 to move toward the through-hole 34a1 side to close the through-hole 34a1. Specifically, the gate 35 (and the rod 36) moves toward... Figure 5C and Figure 5A The sequence shown is used to close through-hole 34a1. (As shown) Figure 5C As shown, when the toner container 32Y is installed into the main body of the imaging device 100, the gate 35 contacts the wall of the extension 34b, and the compression spring 38 is housed in the recess of the gate 35. This configuration prevents the toner in the toner container 32Y from adhering to the compression spring 38 when the toner container 32Y is placed in the main body of the imaging device 100.

[0084] like Figures 5A to 5CAs shown, the toner delivery nozzle 91 of this embodiment has a fitting portion 94, which is linked to the insertion action of the toner delivery nozzle 91 into the through hole 34a1 and fits into the opening portion 34a2. Specifically, the fitting portion 94 has an outer diameter larger than the outer diameter of the main part of the toner delivery nozzle 91. The fitting portion 94 is formed into a generally cylindrical shape that can fit into the opening portion 34a2 of the accessory 34a. The fitting portion 94 can... Figure 5A and Figure 5B The toner container 32Y, indicated by the middle arrow DR1, slides relative to the mounting direction of the main part of the toner delivery nozzle 91. Additionally, a compression spring 97 is provided on the toner delivery nozzle 91 to... Figure 5C The arrow DR2 indicates the downstream bias fitting 94 in the insertion direction, in which the toner delivery nozzle 91 is inserted into the toner container 32Y (i.e., towards the direction of the insertion). Figures 5A to 5C (On the right side of the middle). The fitting part 94 also serves as a cover to cover the opening 91a of the toner delivery nozzle 91. Figure 5A As shown, when the toner container 32Y is not installed, the fitting portion 94 covers the opening 91a. When the toner container 32Y is installed, as... Figure 5C As shown, the fitting part 94 slides, and the main part of the toner delivery nozzle 91 is inserted into the interior of the container body 33. Additionally, Figure 5B This indicates the state in which the opening 91a is exposed by sliding the fitting part 94. With this configuration, the fitting part 94 is linked to the installation operation of the toner container 32Y. When the toner delivery nozzle 91 is inserted into the toner container 32Y, the fitting part 94 is biased by the compression spring 97 and engages with the opening 34a2. Conversely, the fitting part 94 is linked to the disassembly operation of the toner container 32Y. When the toner delivery nozzle 91 is pulled out of the toner container 32Y, the fitting part 94 is pulled out from the opening 34a2.

[0085] Reference Figure 4 , Figure 5A , Figure 5B , Figure 5C , Figure 6A and Figure 6B The following describes the construction and operation of the toner container 32Y (i.e., the gate unit including the retainer 34, gate 35, rod 36, and compression spring 38) in this embodiment. (Refer to the above...) Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5CThe toner container 32Y is detachably mounted to the body of the imaging device 100, and includes a container body 33 and a gate unit. The gate unit includes, for example, a retainer 34, a gate 35, a rod 36, and a compression spring 38. The retainer 34 slidably holds the gate 35, which is fixed to the container body 33. The container body 33, together with the retainer 34, directs the insertion direction (i.e.,...) Figure 4 , Figure 5A , Figure 5B , Figure 5C , Figure 6A and Figure 6B It is rotatably held in the main body of the imaging device 100 with the left and right directions as the rotation axis.

[0086] The toner container 32Y includes a gate 35 having a generally cylindrical shape and a seal 40 having a generally cylindrical shape. The gate 35 and the toner container 32Y move in a predetermined mounting direction toward the body of the imaging device 100 (i.e., in...). Figure 4 , Figure 5A , Figure 5B , Figure 5C , Figure 6A and Figure 6B (Moving from center to left) In conjunction with this, the gate 35 is pushed by the toner delivery nozzle 91, which serves as a nozzle disposed in the main body of the imaging device 100. When the gate 35 is pushed by the toner delivery nozzle 91, the toner delivery nozzle 91 is inserted into the toner container 32Y, and the toner delivery nozzle 91 communicates with the toner container 32Y through an opening 91a (i.e., an inlet port) formed on the circumferential surface of the toner delivery nozzle 91. The seal 40 covers the circumferential surface of the gate 35 in the closed state when the gate 35 is not pushed by the toner delivery nozzle 91 (i.e., the nozzle), and slides in contact with the circumferential surface of the gate 35 and the circumferential surface of the toner delivery nozzle 91 when the gate 35 is opened by the toner delivery nozzle 91. Specifically, in this embodiment, as Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, the seal 40 is bonded to the inner wall of the retainer 34 via double-sided tape 41.

[0087] Reference Figures 5A to 5CIn this embodiment, the length M of the seal 40 in the insertion direction of the toner delivery nozzle 91 is longer than the length N of the opening 91a of the toner delivery nozzle 91 (i.e., the nozzle) in the insertion direction. With this configuration, the problem of toner scattering from the vicinity of the gate 35 can be suppressed when the toner container 32Y is removed from the body of the imaging device 100. For example, when the length M of the seal 40 in the insertion direction is equal to or less than the length N of the opening 91a of the toner delivery nozzle 91 (M≤N), airflow may occur when the toner container 32Y is pulled out from the body of the imaging device 100. Therefore, toner adhering to the gate 35 may be blown away and scattered. In the case of M≤N, when the seal 40 is located at the center of the opening 91a during insertion and removal of the toner delivery nozzle 91, a communication path is created between the interior and exterior of the toner container 32Y. Therefore, toner scattering may occur. Conversely, in this embodiment, since the length M of the seal 40 in the insertion direction is longer than the length N of the opening 91a of the toner delivery nozzle 91 in the insertion direction, airflow is less likely to occur when the toner container 32Y is pulled out from the body of the imaging device 100. A communication path between the interior and exterior of the toner container 32Y is less likely to be created during the insertion or removal of the toner delivery nozzle 91. Therefore, toner scattering is reduced.

[0088] In this embodiment, one opening 91a is provided in the toner delivery nozzle 91. However, multiple openings 91a may also be arranged side by side in the toner delivery nozzle 91 at intervals in the insertion direction. In this case, "the length N of the insertion direction of the opening 91a" corresponds to the range of the insertion directions of the multiple openings 91a arranged side by side.

[0089] First variation

[0090] In the toner container 32Y (i.e., the gate unit including the retainer 34, gate 35, rod 36, and compression spring 38) of the first modified embodiment described above, as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the seal 40 is in the insertion direction (i.e., Figure 7 The seal 40 is compressed in the insertion direction (left-right direction). Specifically, the seal 40 has an upstream retaining surface 34c disposed in the retainer 34 on the upstream side of the insertion direction and a downstream retaining surface 34d disposed in the retainer 34 on the downstream side of the insertion direction. Between the upstream retaining surface 34c and the downstream retaining surface 34d, the seal 40 is compressed in the insertion direction. Specifically, in the opening 34a2 of the retainer 34 (i.e., the cavity inside the retainer 34, see...), Figure 4At the bottom of the retainer 34, an annular downstream retaining surface 34d is provided, which is a plane substantially orthogonal to the insertion direction. The cylindrical seal 40 is bonded to the downstream retaining surface 34d via double-sided adhesive tape 41. Additionally, the retainer 34 has an annular pressing portion 42 at a position opposite to the downstream retaining surface 34d. The end face of the pressing portion 42 functions as the upstream retaining surface 34c. The seal 40 is positioned such that... Figure 7 The toner container 32Y is configured in a collapsed state in the left and right directions between the pressing part 42 and the downstream retaining surface 34d. With this configuration, the problem of toner scattering from near the gate 35 can be suppressed when the toner container 32Y is removed from the main body of the imaging device 100. The sealing performance of the seal 40 in the retainer 34 is enhanced compared to the case where the seal 40 is not compressed in the insertion direction. Therefore, airflow is less likely to occur when the toner container 32Y is removed from the main body of the imaging device 100. In the first modification, as in... Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5C As shown in the embodiment, the length M of the seal 40 in the insertion direction is set to be longer than the length N of the opening 91a of the toner delivery nozzle 91 in the insertion direction. Therefore, the effect of reducing toner scattering can be further enhanced.

[0091] like Figure 7 As shown, in the first modified example, the upstream holding surface 34c of the retainer 34 is in the closed state (i.e., Figure 5A and Figure 7 The insertion direction positions of the upstream end face of the gate 35 (as shown) are approximately the same. Even during the insertion or removal of the toner delivery nozzle 91, the sealing performance of the seal 40 of the retainer 34 can be improved. In the first variation, the seal 40 is bonded to the downstream retaining surface 34d of the retainer 34 via double-sided tape 41. However, it can also be as follows... Figure 9A As shown, the seal 40 is bonded to the upstream retaining surface 34c of the retainer 34 via double-sided adhesive tape 41. Additionally, as... Figure 9B As shown, the seal 40 can also be clamped between the upstream retaining surface 34c and the downstream retaining surface 34d when the seal 40 is not bonded to the retainer 34.

[0092] Second variation

[0093] In the second variation of the above embodiment, the toner container 32Y (i.e., the gate unit including the retainer 34, the gate 35, the rod 36, and the compression spring 38) is as follows: Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, similar to the construction in the first modified example, the seal 40 is in the insertion direction (i.e., Figure 10The seal 40 is compressed between the upstream retaining surface 34c and the downstream retaining surface 34d (in the left-right direction). In the retainer 34 of the second modification, the push plate 43 having the upstream retaining surface 34c is installed in a detachable manner on the retainer 34. This configuration facilitates the assembly of the seal 40 to the retainer 34 during new manufacturing or recycling. Furthermore, it facilitates the replacement or maintenance of the seal 40. In particular, in the second modification, since the seal 40 is bonded to the push plate 43 (upstream retaining surface 34c), such operations can be performed efficiently. Even with a configuration such as the second modification, the problem of toner scattering from the vicinity of the gate 35 can be suppressed when the toner container 32Y is removed from the main body of the imaging device 100. In the second modification, as Figure 12A As shown, the seal 40 can also be bonded to the downstream retaining surface 34d of the retainer 34 via double-sided tape 41. Additionally, as... Figure 12B As shown, the seal 40 can also be clamped between the upstream retaining surface 34c and the downstream retaining surface 34d when the seal 40 is not bonded to the retainer 34.

[0094] Third variation

[0095] In the toner container 32Y (i.e., the gate unit including the retainer 34, gate 35, rod 36, and compression spring 38) of the third variation of the above embodiment, as Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, similar to the construction in the first and second modifications, the seal 40 is in the insertion direction (i.e., Figure 13 The left and right directions within the retainer are compressed between the upstream retaining surface 34c and the downstream retaining surface 34d. In the third modified example of the retainer 34, the cover 44 having the upstream retaining surface 34c is installed on the retainer 34 in a removable manner. The cover 44 makes the opening 34a2 (see reference) Figure 4 The gate 35 is narrowed to reduce the amount of exposure. This configuration reduces the risk of an operator (e.g., a user) accidentally pushing the gate 35 with their finger while the operator is holding the toner container 32Y. Even with a configuration such as the third variation, the problem of toner scattering from the vicinity of the gate 35 can be suppressed when the toner container 32Y is removed from the body of the imaging device 100.

[0096] Fourth variation

[0097] In the fourth variation of the above embodiment, the toner container 32Y (i.e., the gate unit including the retainer 34, the gate 35, the rod 36, and the compression spring 38) is as follows: Figure 15 and Figure 16As shown, the retainer 34 includes a claw 45 as a limiting member, which limits the amount of exposure of the gate 35 on its upstream side in the insertion direction. Specifically, the claw 45 (i.e., the limiting member) covers the end face of the gate 35 such that the exposure amount D of the gate 35 (i.e., the amount of the gate 35 exposed to the opening 34a2) is less than the outer diameter of the gate 35. The retainer 34 is provided with a force-applying member 46 (e.g., an elastic member such as a sponge, leaf spring, or spring) that applies force to the claw 45 as the limiting member in the direction of reducing the exposure amount. The claw 45 (i.e., the limiting member) is linked to the insertion of the toner delivery nozzle 91 (i.e., the nozzle) into the toner container 32Y in the insertion direction, and is pushed by the toner delivery nozzle 91, resisting the force applied by the force-applying member 46, and moves in the direction of increasing exposure amount (i.e., along the direction of increasing exposure amount). Figure 15 (The direction of movement is indicated by arrow DR2 in the diagram). With this configuration, when an operator (e.g., a user) holds the toner container 32Y, the undesirable situation of accidentally opening the gate 35 by pushing it with their fingers (i.e., feeling the claw 45 become an obstacle) can be reduced. Since the claw 45 moves without interfering with the insertion of the toner delivery nozzle 91, the toner delivery nozzle 91 can be inserted or removed normally. Even with a configuration such as the fourth variation, the problem of toner scattering from the vicinity of the gate 35 can be suppressed when the toner container 32Y is removed from the main body of the imaging device 100.

[0098] Fifth variation

[0099] In the fifth variation of the above embodiment, the toner container 32Y (i.e., the gate unit including the retainer 34, the gate 35, the rod 36, and the compression spring 38) is as follows: Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown, the retainer 34 is on the upstream side of the insertion direction (i.e., Figure 17 On the left side of the container 32, a sheet-like member 47 is provided. This sheet-like member 47 is linked to the insertion of the toner delivery nozzle 91 (i.e., the nozzle) into the toner container 32Y in the insertion direction and is torn by the push of the toner delivery nozzle 91. Specifically, the sheet-like member 47 covers the opening 34a2 of the retainer 34 (see reference 34a2). Figure 4 This ensures that gate 35 is not exposed. (Refer to the above.) Figures 5A to 5CAs described above, when the toner container 32Y is set, the sheet-like member 47 is punctured by the toner delivery nozzle 91, and in this state, the toner delivery nozzle 91 is inserted into the toner container 32Y. The sheet-like member 47 can be, for example, a sheet of paper or resin. With this configuration, when an operator (e.g., a user) holds the toner container 32Y, the undesirable situation of accidentally opening the gate 35 by pushing it with their fingers (i.e., feeling that the sheet-like member 47 is an obstacle) can be reduced. Even with a configuration such as the fifth variation, the problem of toner scattering from the vicinity of the gate 35 can be suppressed when the toner container 32Y is removed from the main body of the imaging device 100. Because the sheet-like member 47 is torn so as not to interfere with the insertion of the toner delivery nozzle 91, the toner delivery nozzle 91 can be inserted or removed normally. Figure 19 As shown, the sheet-like member 47 may also be provided with a slit 47a to facilitate tearing caused by the pushing of the toner delivery nozzle 91. In this case, since the sheet-like member 47 torn by the pushing of the toner delivery nozzle 91 is less likely to produce debris, the problem of such debris mixing into the toner container 32Y can be reduced.

[0100] As described above, in this embodiment, the toner container 32Y is detachably mounted to the main body of the imaging device 100. Linked to the movement of the toner container 32Y toward the main body of the imaging device in a predetermined mounting direction, the gate 35 is pushed as a toner delivery nozzle 91 (i.e., a nozzle) disposed in the main body of the imaging device 100. When the gate 35 is pushed by the toner delivery nozzle 91, the toner delivery nozzle 91 is inserted into the interior of the toner container 32Y, communicating with the toner container 32Y via an opening 91a formed on the circumferential surface of the toner delivery nozzle 91. The seal 40 covers the circumferential surface of the gate 35 in the closed state when the gate 35 is not pushed by the toner delivery nozzle 91, and slides in contact with the circumferential surface of the gate 35 and the circumferential surface of the toner delivery nozzle 91 during the opening action of the gate 35 pushed by the toner delivery nozzle 91. The length M of the seal 40 in the installation direction is longer than the length N of the opening 91a of the toner delivery nozzle 91 in the insertion direction. With this configuration, the problem of toner scattering from the vicinity of the gate 35 can be suppressed when the toner container 32Y is removed from the body of the imaging device 100.

[0101] In the above embodiments, this disclosure is applied to a toner container 32Y in which toner (i.e., a single-component developer) is stored, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the invention can also be applied to a toner container in which a two-component developer is stored. In this case, the same effects as in the above embodiments can also be obtained.

[0102] The above embodiments are illustrative and do not limit this disclosure. Therefore, many additional modifications and variations are possible based on the above teachings. It should be understood that this disclosure can be practiced in ways different from those specifically described herein within its scope. The number, position, and shape of the above-described components are not limited to the above embodiments. Suitable numbers, positions, and shapes may be chosen for implementing the invention.

[0103] This application is based on and claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-191163, filed with the Japan Patent Office on November 17, 2020, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0104] List of reference numerals

[0105] 5Y developing unit (supply section)

[0106] 32Y, 32M, 32C and 32K toner containers (powder containers)

[0107] 33 Container Body

[0108] 34 retainer

[0109] 34c upstream side retaining surface

[0110] 34d downstream side retaining surface

[0111] 35. Shutter

[0112] 40 seals

[0113] 41 Double-sided tape

[0114] 42 Pushing section

[0115] 43 Push Plate

[0116] 44 caps

[0117] 45 claws (restriction component)

[0118] 46 Force-applying components

[0119] 47 sheet-like components

[0120] 47a incision

[0121] 90 Toner Replenishment Device (Replenishment Device)

[0122] 91 Toner delivery nozzle (nozzle)

[0123] 91a opening

[0124] 100 Imaging Device (Main Body of Imaging Device)

Claims

1. A toner container configured for detachable mounting to an imaging device, the toner container comprising: The gate is configured as follows: The movement of the toner container in the mounting direction of the imaging device is linked to the movement of the toner container, and is propelled by the nozzle of the imaging device; Insert the nozzle into the toner container; and The nozzle communicates with the toner container via an opening on its circumferential surface; and The seal is configured as follows: The gate is covered in its closed state, when it is not pushed by the nozzle; and During the opening action of the gate being pushed by the nozzle, the circumferential surface of the gate slides into contact with the circumferential surface of the nozzle. in, The length of the seal in the installation direction is longer than the length of the opening of the nozzle in the installation direction. The gate is further included as a retainer configured to movably hold it, the retainer comprising: An upstream retaining surface, wherein the insertion direction of the nozzle into the toner container is set on the upstream side inside the retainer; and A downstream retaining surface is disposed on the downstream side inside the retainer in the insertion direction of the nozzle, and The seal is compressed between the upstream retaining surface and the downstream retaining surface along the insertion direction of the nozzle. The retainer includes a through-hole portion that opens and closes through the gate and an opening portion that opens upstream of the through-hole portion in the insertion direction and communicates with the through-hole portion, wherein the seal protrudes from the through-hole portion toward the opening portion in the retainer, and the front end of the seal portion on the upstream side in the insertion direction is located within the space of the opening portion.

2. A toner container configured for detachable mounting to an imaging device, the toner container comprising: The gate is configured as follows: The movement of the toner container in the mounting direction of the imaging device is linked to the movement of the toner container, and is propelled by the nozzle of the imaging device; Insert the nozzle into the toner container; and The nozzle communicates with the toner container via an opening on its circumferential surface; and The seal is configured as follows: The gate is covered in its closed state, when it is not pushed by the nozzle; and During the opening action of the gate being pushed by the nozzle, the circumferential surface of the gate slides into contact with the circumferential surface of the nozzle. in, The seal is compressed in the installation direction. The gate is further included as a retainer configured to movably hold it, the retainer comprising: An upstream retaining surface, wherein the insertion direction of the nozzle into the toner container is set on the upstream side inside the retainer; and A downstream retaining surface is disposed on the downstream side inside the retainer in the insertion direction of the nozzle, and The seal is compressed between the upstream retaining surface and the downstream retaining surface along the insertion direction of the nozzle. The retainer includes a through-hole portion that opens and closes through the gate and an opening portion that opens upstream of the through-hole portion in the insertion direction and communicates with the through-hole portion, wherein the seal protrudes from the through-hole portion toward the opening portion in the retainer, and the front end of the seal portion on the upstream side in the insertion direction is located within the space of the opening portion.

3. The toner container according to claim 1 or 2, in, The seal adheres to the upstream retaining surface.

4. The toner container according to any one of claims 1-3, in, The component having the upstream retaining surface is detachably mounted on the retainer.

5. The toner container according to any one of claims 1 to 4, in, The upstream retaining surface of the retainer is positioned in the insertion direction at approximately the same position as the upstream end face of the gate in the closed state in the insertion direction.

6. The toner container according to any one of claims 1 to 5, in, The retainer includes a limiting member configured to limit the amount of exposure of the gate to the upstream side in the direction in which the nozzle pushes the gate.

7. The toner container according to claim 1 or 2, It further includes a retainer configured to movably hold the gate. in, The retainer includes a limiting member configured to limit the amount of exposure of the gate to the upstream side in the direction in which the nozzle pushes the gate.

8. The toner container according to claim 6 or 7, It further includes a biasing member configured to bias the limiting member in a direction that reduces the amount of exposure. in, The limiting member is configured to move in conjunction with the insertion of the nozzle into the toner container, pushed by the nozzle, and against the bias of the biasing member, in a direction that increases the exposure.

9. The toner container according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The device further includes a container body configured to be rotatably held within the imaging apparatus with the mounting orientation as a rotation axis direction. in, The retainer is configured to keep the gate movable in the direction of the rotation axis and held by the container body without rotation.

10. The toner container according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: The container body is configured to be rotatably held within the imaging device with the mounting direction as the rotation axis direction; and A retainer is configured to keep the gate movable in the direction of the rotation axis and to be held by the container body without rotation.

11. The toner container according to claim 9 or 10, in, The retainer includes a sheet-like member on the downstream side of the seal in the mounting direction, and The sheet-like member is configured to be linked to the insertion of the nozzle into the toner container and is pushed and torn by the nozzle.

12. The toner container according to claim 11, in, The sheet-like member has slits configured to facilitate tearing due to the pushing motion of the nozzle.

13. An imaging device, comprising: The main body; and The toner container according to any one of claims 1 to 12 is detachably mounted in the body.

14. A gate unit configured to be disposed in a toner container removably mounted to an imaging device, the gate unit comprising: The gate is configured as follows: The movement of the toner container in the mounting direction of the imaging device is linked to the movement of the toner container, and is propelled by the nozzle of the imaging device; Insert the nozzle into the toner container; and The nozzle communicates with the toner container via an opening on its circumferential surface; and The seal is configured as follows: The gate is covered in its closed state, when it is not pushed by the nozzle; and During the opening action of the gate being pushed by the nozzle, the circumferential surface of the gate slides into contact with the circumferential surface of the nozzle. in, The seal is compressed in the installation direction. The gate is further included as a retainer configured to movably hold it, the retainer comprising: An upstream retaining surface, wherein the insertion direction of the nozzle into the toner container is set on the upstream side inside the retainer; and A downstream retaining surface is disposed on the downstream side inside the retainer in the insertion direction of the nozzle, and The seal is compressed between the upstream retaining surface and the downstream retaining surface along the insertion direction of the nozzle. The retainer includes a through-hole portion that opens and closes through the gate and an opening portion that opens upstream of the through-hole portion in the insertion direction and communicates with the through-hole portion, wherein the seal protrudes from the through-hole portion toward the opening portion in the retainer, and the front end of the seal portion on the upstream side in the insertion direction is located within the space of the opening portion.

Images