Toner replenishment device and image forming apparatus

Abstract

The present application provides toner replenishing device and image forming apparatus. The toner replenishing device includes a replenishing tube, a first conveying tube, a second conveying tube, a first conveying member, a second conveying member and a loosening member. The loosening member is arranged in the replenishing tube in a manner that can go back and forth along the extension direction of the replenishing tube. The first conveying tube and the second conveying tube are arranged in a direction intersecting with the extension direction of each other to converge at a converging portion connected with the replenishing tube. The loosening member is connected with the first conveying member and the second conveying member respectively at the converging portion and extends towards the inside of the replenishing tube.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a toner replenishment device and an image forming device. Background Technology

[0002] In electrophotographic image forming apparatuses such as copiers and printers, devices are widely used to develop an electrostatic latent image formed on the surface of a photosensitive drum, which serves as an image carrier, using toner, and then forming a toner image transferred onto paper. Furthermore, regarding the replenishment of toner to the developing unit, techniques have been proposed to suppress the adhesion and aggregation of toner to the inner wall of the toner delivery tube. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide a toner replenishment device and an image forming apparatus that can suppress the adhesion and aggregation of toner to the inner wall of a single replenishment tube connected to two delivery tubes through a simple structure.

[0004] According to a first configuration of the present invention, a toner replenishment device is provided for replenishing toner in a first container and a second container of a developing apparatus. The toner replenishment device includes: a single replenishment tube connected to the developing apparatus to allow the toner to flow into the developing apparatus; a first delivery tube connected between the first container and the replenishment tube, delivering the toner from the first container side toward the replenishment tube side; a second delivery tube connected between the second container and the replenishment tube, delivering the toner from the second container side toward the replenishment tube side; and a first delivery member rotatably disposed on the first delivery tube. The toner is conveyed from the first container side toward the replenishment tube side within the tube; a second conveying member is rotatably disposed within the second conveying tube to convey the toner from the second container side toward the replenishment tube side; and a loosening member is disposed within the replenishment tube in a manner that allows it to reciprocate along the extension direction of the replenishment tube. The first and second conveying tubes are arranged in a direction intersecting each other's extension directions to converge at a junction connected to the replenishment tube. The loosening member is connected to the first and second conveying members respectively at the junction and extends toward the replenishment tube.

[0005] According to the first configuration of the present invention, the loosening component can be moved within the replenishment tube while the first and second conveying components are rotated respectively. Thus, in a single replenishment tube connecting the first and second conveying tubes, the adhesion and aggregation of toner to the inner wall surface can be suppressed with a simple configuration. Attached Figure Description

[0006] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an image forming apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0007] Figure 2 It means Figure 1 A block diagram illustrating the general structure of an image forming apparatus.

[0008] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the periphery of the image forming section of the image forming apparatus.

[0009] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the toner replenishment device surrounding the image forming apparatus.

[0010] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Front view of the area surrounding the toner replenishment device.

[0011] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 Side view of the area surrounding the toner replenishment device.

[0012] Figure 7 yes Figure 4 A three-dimensional view of the toner replenishment device.

[0013] Figure 8 yes Figure 4 A top view of the toner replenishment device.

[0014] Figure 9 yes Figure 7 A perspective view of the first and second delivery pipes of the toner replenishment device.

[0015] Figure 10 yes Figure 7 Side view of the first and second delivery pipes of the toner replenishment device.

[0016] Figure 11 yes Figure 9 A top view of the first and second conveying components of the toner replenishment device.

[0017] Figure 12 yes Figure 9 A perspective view of the first and second conveying components of the toner replenishment device.

[0018] Figure 13 yes Figure 10 A rear cross-sectional view of the periphery of the delivery drive section of the toner replenishment device.

[0019] Figure 14 yes Figure 12 A magnified three-dimensional view of the area around the loose components of the toner replenishment device.

[0020] Figure 15 yes Figure 14A perspective view of the loose component of the first embodiment shown.

[0021] Figure 16 yes Figure 10 A rear cross-sectional view of the rotating detection section of the toner replenishment device.

[0022] Figure 17 It means Figure 16 A diagram illustrating the rotational states of the first and second detection axes.

[0023] Figure 18 It means Figure 16 A diagram illustrating the rotational states of the first and second detection axes.

[0024] Figure 19 It means Figure 16 A diagram illustrating the rotational states of the first and second detection axes.

[0025] Figure 20 yes Figure 14 A partial front view of the loose component.

[0026] Figure 21 This is a partial front view of the loose component in the second embodiment.

[0027] Figure 22 It means Figure 21 A partial front view of the displacement state of the loose component.

[0028] Figure 23 This is a partial front view of the loose component in the third embodiment.

[0029] Figure 24 This is a front view of the loose component in the fourth embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0030] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the following descriptions.

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment. Figure 2 It means Figure 1 A block diagram of the general structure of the image forming apparatus 1. Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the periphery of the image forming section 20 of the image forming apparatus 1. As an example of the image forming apparatus 1 in this embodiment, it is a serial color printer that uses an intermediate transfer belt 31 to transfer toner images onto paper S. The image forming apparatus 1 can, for example, be a so-called digital multifunction printer with functions such as printing, scanning (image reading), and fax transmission.

[0032] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the image forming apparatus 1 includes a paper feeding unit 3, a paper delivery unit 4, an exposure unit 5, an image forming unit 20, a transfer unit 30, a fixing unit 6, a paper output unit 7, and a control unit 8, which are provided on its main body 2.

[0033] The paper feed unit 3 is located at the bottom of the main body 2. The paper feed unit 3 holds multiple sheets of paper S before printing, and separates and feeds the sheets of paper S one by one during printing. The paper feeding unit 4 extends vertically along the side wall of the main body 2. The paper feeding unit 4 transports the sheets of paper S fed from the paper feed unit 3 to the secondary transfer unit 33 and the fixing unit 6, and then discharges the fixed sheets of paper S from the paper exit 4a to the paper exit 7. The exposure unit 5 is located above the paper feed unit 3. The exposure unit 5 irradiates the image forming unit 20 with a laser controlled by image data.

[0034] The image forming unit 20 is positioned above the exposure unit 5 and below the intermediate transfer belt 31. The image forming unit 20 includes an image forming unit 20Y for yellow, an image forming unit 20C for cyan, an image forming unit 20M for magenta, and an image forming unit 20B for black. These four image forming units 20 have the same basic structure. Therefore, in the following description, the identification marks “Y,” “C,” “M,” and “B” for each color will be omitted unless specifically defined.

[0035] The image forming unit 20 is supported so that it can move in a predetermined direction ( Figure 1 and Figure 3 The image forming unit 20 also includes a photosensitive drum (image carrier) 21 that rotates clockwise. Around the photosensitive drum 21, there are a charged section 22, a developing unit 40, and a drum cleaning section 23 arranged in the direction of rotation. Furthermore, a primary transfer section 32 is arranged between the developing unit 40 and the drum cleaning section 23.

[0036] The photosensitive drum 21 has a photosensitive layer on its outer peripheral surface. The charging section 22 charges the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 21 to a predetermined potential. The exposure section 5 exposes the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 21, which is charged by the charging section 22, forming an electrostatic latent image of the original document on the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 21. The developing apparatus 40 supplies toner to the electrostatic latent image for development, forming a toner image. The four image forming sections 20 each form toner images of different colors. After transferring the toner image to the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate transfer belt 31 in one pass, the drum cleaning section 23 removes and cleans any remaining toner or other contaminants from the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 21. Thus, the image forming section 20 forms the image (toner image) that is subsequently transferred to the paper S.

[0037] The transfer unit 30 includes an intermediate transfer belt 31, primary transfer units 32Y, 32C, 32M, and 32B, a secondary transfer unit 33, and a belt cleaning unit 34. The intermediate transfer belt 31 is positioned above the four image forming units 20. The intermediate transfer belt 31 is an annular intermediate transfer body, supported so that it can move in a predetermined direction (…). Figure 1 The toner images formed by the four image forming units 20 are sequentially overlapped and transferred once by rotating counterclockwise (in the middle of the transfer belt 31). The four image forming units 20 are arranged in a so-called serial configuration, with the upper side facing the lower side of the middle transfer belt 31 in the direction of rotation.

[0038] The primary transfer units 32Y, 32C, 32M, and 32B are positioned above the respective color image forming units 20Y, 20C, 20M, and 20B, separated by the intermediate transfer belt 31. The secondary transfer unit 33 is positioned upstream of the fixing unit 6 in the paper feeding direction of the paper feeding unit 4 and downstream of the four image forming units 20Y, 20C, 20M, and 20B in the rotation direction of the intermediate transfer belt 31. The belt cleaning unit 34 is positioned downstream of the secondary transfer unit 33 in the rotation direction of the intermediate transfer belt 31.

[0039] The primary transfer unit 32 transfers the toner image formed on the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 21 to the intermediate transfer belt 31. In other words, the toner image is transferred to the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate transfer belt 31 in one pass through the primary transfer units 32Y, 32C, 32M, and 32B of each color. Then, as the intermediate transfer belt 31 rotates, the toner images of the four image forming units 20 are continuously and overlappingly transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 31 at predetermined time intervals, thereby forming a color toner image formed by overlapping toner images of four colors: yellow, cyan, magenta, and black on the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate transfer belt 31.

[0040] The toner image on the outer periphery of the intermediate transfer belt 31 is transferred through the secondary transfer roller gap formed in the secondary transfer section 33 onto the paper S synchronously fed by the paper feed section 4. After the secondary transfer, the belt cleaning section 34 removes and cleans any remaining toner or other adhering substances on the outer periphery of the intermediate transfer belt 31. In this way, the transfer section 30 transfers (records) the toner image formed on the outer periphery of the photosensitive drum 21 onto the paper S.

[0041] The fixing unit 6 is positioned above the secondary transfer unit 33. The fixing unit 6 fixes the toner image onto the paper S by heating and pressing it.

[0042] The paper output section 7 is positioned above the transfer section 30. The toner image, after being fixed and printed, is conveyed to the paper output section 7. The paper output section 7 removes the printed paper (printed material) from above.

[0043] The control unit 8 includes a CPU, an image processing unit, a storage unit, and other circuits and electronic components (not shown). Based on control programs and data stored in the storage unit, the CPU controls the operation of each component of the image forming apparatus 1, performing processing related to the function of the image forming apparatus 1. The paper feeding unit 3, paper delivery unit 4, exposure unit 5, image forming unit 20, transfer unit 30, and fixing unit 6 each receive instructions individually from the control unit 8 and perform printing onto the paper S in a coordinated manner. The storage unit is composed of a combination of non-volatile storage devices such as program ROM (Read Only Memory) and data ROM, and volatile storage devices such as RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0044] Next, use Figure 3 The configuration of the developing apparatus 40 and its surroundings will be described. Furthermore, since the basic structure of each color developing apparatus 40 is the same, the description and explanation of the identification marks for each color are omitted from the description of the constituent elements.

[0045] The developing apparatus 40 supplies toner to the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 21. The developing apparatus 40 includes a developing container 41, a first stirring and conveying component 42, a second stirring and conveying component 43, a developing roller 44, and a limiting component 45.

[0046] The developing container 41 is aligned with the axis of the photosensitive drum 21. Figure 3 The developing container 41 is an elongated shape extending in the paper depth direction, arranged horizontally with its long side in the direction of horizontal. The developing container 41 contains a magnetic single-component developing agent containing, for example, a magnetic toner. The developing agent may also be, for example, a non-magnetic single-component developing agent or a two-component developing agent containing a toner and a magnetic carrier. The developing container 41 has a partition 411, a first transport chamber 412, and a second transport chamber 413.

[0047] The separator 411 is provided inside the lower part of the developing container 41. The separator 411 is located in the lower part of the developing container 41 in a direction intersecting the axial direction. Figure 3 The partition 411 extends approximately from the center of the left-right direction along the axial direction and the vertical direction. Figure 3 The interior of the developing container 41 is divided along the left-right direction. The developing container 41 is divided along the axial direction of the partition 411. Figure 3 The two ends of the paper (in the depth direction) are respectively provided with a connecting part (not shown) between the first conveying chamber 412 and the second conveying chamber 413.

[0048] A first transport chamber 412 and a second transport chamber 413 are disposed inside the developing container 41. The first transport chamber 412 and the second transport chamber 413 are formed by being divided by a partition 411 inside the developing container 41 and are arranged side-by-side. The second transport chamber 413 is disposed adjacent to the area below the developing roller 44 inside the developing container 41. The first transport chamber 412 is disposed in a region inside the developing container 41 that is further away from the developing roller 44 than the second transport chamber 413. The first transport chamber 412 is located via... Figure 3 The supplement tube connection 412a shown receives the toner.

[0049] A first stirring and conveying component 42 is disposed inside a first conveying chamber 412. A second stirring and conveying component 43 is disposed inside a second conveying chamber 413. The second stirring and conveying component 43 extends close to and parallel to the developing roller 44. The first stirring and conveying component 42 and the second stirring and conveying component 43 are supported on the developing container 41 in a manner that allows them to rotate about an axis extending parallel to the photosensitive drum 21. The first stirring and conveying component 42 and the second stirring and conveying component 43, by rotating about their axes, stir the developer while conveying it in opposite directions along the axis of rotation.

[0050] By rotating the first stirring and conveying member 42 and the second stirring and conveying member 43, the developer circulates between the first conveying chamber 412 and the second conveying chamber 413 through the connecting portions respectively disposed at both ends of the partition 411 in the axial direction. In the first conveying chamber 412 and the second conveying chamber 413, the toner supplemented from the outside is stirred and charged.

[0051] The developing roller 44 is disposed inside the developing container 41, above the second stirring and conveying member 43. The developing roller 44 is supported in the developing container 41 in a manner rotatable about an axis extending parallel to the axis of the photosensitive drum 21. The developing roller 44, for example, has... Figure 3 The cylindrical developing sleeve rotates counterclockwise, and the developing roller side magnetic poles are fixed inside the developing sleeve (neither shown in the figure).

[0052] A portion of the outer peripheral surface of the developing roller 44 protrudes from the developing container 41, facing and approaching the photosensitive drum 21. The developing roller 44 carries toner on its outer peripheral surface to be supplied to the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 21 in the area opposite to the photosensitive drum 21. The developing roller 44 causes the toner in the second transport chamber 413 to adhere to the electrostatic latent image on the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 21, forming a toner image.

[0053] The limiting member 45 is disposed upstream of the developing roller 44 in the rotational direction of the developing roller 44 in the area opposite to the developing roller 44 and the photosensitive drum 21. The limiting member 45 is close to and opposite the developing roller 44, and is arranged such that a predetermined interval is provided between the front end of the limiting member 45 and the outer peripheral surface of the developing roller 44. The limiting member 45 extends along the axial direction of the developing roller 44. Figure 3 The entire area extends (in the paper depth direction). The limiting component 45 limits the thickness of the developer (toner) layer carried on the outer peripheral surface of the developing roller 44.

[0054] The toner in the developing container 41 is stirred, circulated, and charged by the first stirring and conveying component 42 and the second stirring and conveying component 43, and then transferred to the outer peripheral surface of the developing roller 44 via the second stirring and conveying component 43. After the toner is limited in thickness by the limiting component 45, it is conveyed to the area opposite the developing roller 44 and the photosensitive drum 21 by the rotation of the developing roller 44. When a predetermined developing voltage is applied to the developing roller 44, the toner carried on the outer peripheral surface of the developing roller 44 flies to the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 21 in the developing space due to the potential difference between the potential of the outer peripheral surface of the developing roller 44 and the photosensitive drum 21, and the electrostatic latent image on the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 21 is developed.

[0055] Regarding the replenishment of toner to the developing apparatus 40, the image forming apparatus 1 includes a first container 51, a second container 52, and a toner replenishment device 60 (see reference). Figure 4 The first container 51, the second container 52, and the toner replenishment device 60 are positioned above the developing device 40. One of each of the four colors—yellow, cyan, magenta, and black—is provided.

[0056] Next, use Figures 4 to 12 The configuration of the toner replenishment device 60 in the first embodiment will be described. Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A three-dimensional view surrounding the toner replenishment device 60 of the image forming apparatus 1. Figure 5 and Figure 6 yes Figure 4 Front and side views of the toner replenishment device 60. Figure 7 and Figure 8 yes Figure 4 A perspective view and a top view of the toner replenishment device 60. Figure 9 and Figure 10 yes Figure 7 A perspective view and a side view of the first delivery pipe 66 and the second delivery pipe 67 of the toner replenishment device 60. Figure 11 and Figure 12 yes Figure 9 Top view and perspective view of the first conveying component 68 and the second conveying component 69 of the toner replenishment device 60. Figure 13 yes Figure 10 A rear cross-sectional view of the periphery of the conveying drive unit 70 of the toner replenishment device 60.

[0057] The first container 51, the second container 52, and the toner refill device 60 include: a first container 51Y, a second container 52Y, and a toner refill device 60Y for yellow; a first container 51C, a second container 52C, and a toner refill device 60C for cyan; a first container 51M, a second container 52M, and a toner refill device 60M for magenta; and a first container 51B, a second container 52B, and a toner refill device 60B for black. The basic structure of the first container 51, the second container 52, and the toner refill device 60 for each of these colors is the same. Therefore, in the following description, the identification marks “Y,” “C,” “M,” and “B” for each color are sometimes omitted, except where specifically required.

[0058] The first container 51 is positioned above the second container 52. The second container 52 is positioned below the first container 51. Viewed from the front, the first container 51 and the second container 52 are staggered in the arrangement direction of the image forming section 20 and the toner replenishment device 60. The first container 51 and the second container 52 can be detached from the main body 2 to store the toner replenished to the developing device 40.

[0059] The first container 51 and the second container 52 are elongated cylindrical shapes extending along the axial direction Dx of the photosensitive drum 21, and are arranged horizontally along their long sides. Spiral protrusions 51s and 52s are formed on the outer walls of the first container 51 and the second container 52, which protrude radially inward and extend along their long sides.

[0060] The first container 51 and the second container 52 are closed at one end (front side) along the axial direction Dx, and have an opening (not shown) at the other end (rear side). The first container 51 and the second container 52 are connected to the first container connecting portion 61 and the second container connecting portion 62 of the toner refill device 60 at the rear side, which is the opening side. The first container 51 and the second container 52 are supported on the toner refill device 60 in such a way that they can rotate about an axis extending parallel to the axial direction Dx of the photosensitive drum 21.

[0061] The first container 51 and the second container 52 are rotated about an axis extending parallel to the axis Dx of the photosensitive drum 21 by a drive unit (not shown). As the first container 51 and the second container 52 rotate, the toner inside is conveyed towards the rear side, which is the opening side, through the spiral protrusions 51s and 52s. As a result, the toner inside the first container 51 and the second container 52 flows into the toner replenishment device 60 from the opening.

[0062] The toner replenishment device 60 is disposed behind the first container 51 and the second container 52. The four toner replenishment devices 60 are arranged side-by-side in the same order as the four image forming units 20. The toner replenishment devices 60 replenish the toner in the first container 51 and the second container 52 to the developing apparatus 40.

[0063] The toner replenishment device 60 includes a first container connection 61, a second container connection 62, a replenishment tube 63, a first vertical tube 64, a second vertical tube 65, a first conveying tube 66, a second conveying tube 67, a first conveying component 68, a second conveying component 69, a conveying drive unit 70, a loosening component 79A, and a rotation detection unit 80.

[0064] The first container connection 61 is positioned above the toner replenishment device 60 and above the second container connection 62. The first container connection 61 has an internal toner flow path (not shown). The first container connection 61 is connected to the opening side of the first container 51, supporting the first container 51 so that it can rotate. The downstream end of the first container connection 61 in the toner flow direction is connected to the first vertical tube 64. When toner is replenished into the developing apparatus 40 from the first container 51, the toner flows from the first container 51 into the first container connection 61 and flows out through the first container connection 61 toward the first vertical tube 64.

[0065] The second container connection 62 is disposed above the toner replenishment device 60 and below the first container connection 61. The second container connection 62 has an internal toner flow path (not shown). The second container connection 62 is connected to the opening side of the second container 52, supporting the second container 52 so that it can rotate. The downstream end of the second container connection 62 in the toner flow direction is connected to the second vertical tube 65. When toner is replenished into the developing apparatus 40 from the second container 52, the toner flows from the second container 52 into the second container connection 62 and flows out through the second container connection 62 toward the second vertical tube 65.

[0066] A replenishment tube 63 is disposed at the lower part of the toner replenishment device 60. The toner replenishment device 60 has a single replenishment tube 63. The replenishment tube 63 is formed into a cylindrical shape extending in the vertical direction. The upper end of the replenishment tube 63 is connected to a confluence portion 60a, where the first delivery tube 66 and the second delivery tube 67 converge. The lower end of the replenishment tube 63 is connected to the replenishment tube connection portion 412a of the developing apparatus 40. When toner in the first container 51 and the second container 52 is replenished to the developing apparatus 40, the toner flows from the confluence portion 60a into the replenishment tube 63, and then flows into the developing apparatus 40 through the replenishment tube 63.

[0067] A first vertical tube 64 is disposed between the first container connection portion 61 and the first delivery tube 66. The first vertical tube 64 is formed into a cylindrical shape extending in the vertical direction. The upper end of the first vertical tube 64 is connected to the first container connection portion 61. The lower end of the first vertical tube 64 is connected to the first delivery tube 66. When the toner in the first container 51 is replenished to the developing apparatus 40, the toner flows from the first container connection portion 61 into the first vertical tube 64 and flows out through the first vertical tube 64 toward the first delivery tube 66.

[0068] The second vertical tube 65 is disposed between the second container connection portion 62 and the second delivery tube 67. The second vertical tube 65 is formed into a cylindrical shape extending in the vertical direction. The upper end of the second vertical tube 65 is connected to the second container connection portion 62. The lower end of the second vertical tube 65 is connected to the second delivery tube 67. When the toner in the second container 52 is replenished to the developing apparatus 40, the toner flows from the second container connection portion 62 into the second vertical tube 65, and flows out through the second vertical tube 65 toward the second delivery tube 67.

[0069] Because the first container 51 and the first container connecting portion 61 are positioned above the second container 52 and the second container connecting portion 62, the first vertical tube 64 is longer than the second vertical tube 65 in the vertical direction. Because the second container 52 and the second container connecting portion 62 are positioned below the first container 51 and the first container connecting portion 62, the second vertical tube 65 is shorter than the first vertical tube 64 in the vertical direction. The first vertical tube 64 and the second vertical tube 65 are positioned at the same location along the axial direction Dx of the photosensitive drum 21. In other words, the first vertical tube 64 and the second vertical tube 65 are arranged side-by-side on a straight line orthogonal to the axial direction Dx.

[0070] The first delivery pipe 66 is disposed vertically between the first vertical pipe 64 and the replenishment pipe 63. The first delivery pipe 66 is formed into a cylindrical shape extending horizontally. The first vertical pipe 64 is connected to one end of the first delivery pipe 66 in its extending direction. The other end of the first delivery pipe 66 in its extending direction is connected to the confluence portion 60a. When toner in the first container 51 is replenished to the developing apparatus 40, toner flows from the first vertical pipe 64 into the first delivery pipe 66 and flows out through the first delivery pipe 66 toward the confluence portion 60a. In other words, the first delivery pipe 66 connects the first container 51 and the replenishment pipe 63, delivering toner from the first container 51 side toward the replenishment pipe 63 side.

[0071] The second delivery pipe 67 is disposed vertically between the second vertical pipe 65 and the replenishment pipe 63. The second delivery pipe 67 is formed into a cylindrical shape extending horizontally. One end of the second delivery pipe 67 in its extending direction is connected to the second vertical pipe 65. The other end of the second delivery pipe 67 in its extending direction is connected to the confluence portion 60a. When toner in the second container 52 is replenished to the developing apparatus 40, toner flows from the second vertical pipe 65 into the second delivery pipe 67 and flows out through the second delivery pipe 67 toward the confluence portion 60a. In other words, the second delivery pipe 67 connects the second container 52 and the replenishment pipe 63, delivering toner from the second container 52 side toward the replenishment pipe 63 side.

[0072] The first delivery pipe 66 and the second delivery pipe 67 are arranged in a horizontal direction intersecting each other's extending directions, and converge at a junction 60a connected to the supplementary pipe 63. In other words, the first delivery pipe 66 and the second delivery pipe 67 are configured such that their extended lines intersect at the junction 60a side. The angle between the extending directions of the first delivery pipe 66 and the second delivery pipe 67 is acute in the horizontal direction, and they are arranged in a V-shape when viewed from above.

[0073] A first conveying member 68 is disposed within a first conveying pipe 66. The first conveying member 68 includes: a rotating shaft 681 disposed between the two ends of the cylindrical first conveying pipe 66 in the axial direction; and a first conveying blade 682 extending spirally along the axial direction formed on the outer circumferential surface of the rotating shaft 681. The first conveying member 68 is supported within the first conveying pipe 66 in a manner capable of rotating about an axis extending in the horizontal direction. Furthermore, one end of the first conveying member 68 in the axial direction is located within a confluence portion 60a.

[0074] The first conveying component 68 rotates about its axis while conveying toner in a direction f1 (see reference) parallel to the axis of rotation. Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 While stirring, the toner in the first delivery pipe 66 is conveyed. The first delivery member 68 conveys the toner in the first delivery pipe 66 from the side of the first vertical pipe 64 toward the side of the confluence 60a. In other words, the first delivery member 68 conveys the toner from the side of the first container 51 toward the side of the replenishment pipe 63.

[0075] The second conveying member 69 is disposed within the second conveying pipe 67. The second conveying member 69 includes: a rotating shaft 691 disposed between the two ends of the cylindrical second conveying pipe 67 in the axial direction; and second conveying blades 692 extending spirally along the axial direction formed on the outer peripheral surface of the rotating shaft 691. The second conveying member 69 is supported within the second conveying pipe 67 in a manner capable of rotating about an axis extending in the horizontal direction. Furthermore, one end of the second conveying member 69 in the axial direction is located within the confluence portion 60a.

[0076] The second conveying component 69 rotates about its axis while conveying the toner in a direction f2 (see reference) parallel to the axis of rotation. Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 While stirring, the toner in the second delivery pipe 67 is conveyed. The second delivery member 69 conveys the toner in the second delivery pipe 67 from the side of the second vertical pipe 65 toward the side of the confluence 60a. In other words, the second delivery member 69 conveys the toner from the side of the second container 52 toward the side of the replenishment pipe 63.

[0077] As described above, the first conveying pipe 66 and the second conveying pipe 67 are arranged in a V-shape when viewed from above. That is, the rotation axis 681 of the first conveying component 68 and the rotation axis 691 of the second conveying component 69 are arranged at a predetermined axial angle α.

[0078] The delivery drive unit 70 is located at the rear of the toner replenishment device 60 and upstream of the toner delivery direction of the first delivery pipe 66 and the second delivery pipe 67. The delivery drive unit 70 includes a motor 71, a first gear 72, a second gear 73, a third gear 74, a oscillating gear 75, a freewheeling gear 76, and a fourth gear 77.

[0079] Motor 71 generates a driving force that rotates the first conveying member 68 and the second conveying member 69. Motor 71 is controlled by control unit 8. An output shaft 711 is connected to motor 71. Output shaft 711 is positioned below the second conveying member 69 and extends parallel to the rotation axis 691 of the second conveying member 69.

[0080] The first gear 72 is fixed to the output shaft 711 of the motor 71. The first gear 72 is located below the second gear 73, the third gear 74, and the oscillating gear 75. The first gear 72 rotates through the motor 71. The first gear 72 meshes with the oscillating gear 75 and transmits the driving force of the motor 71 to the oscillating gear 75.

[0081] The second gear 73 is located above the oscillating gear 75. The second gear 73 is fixed on the same axis as the rotating shaft 691 of the second conveying component 69. The second gear 73 receives the driving force of the motor 71 from the oscillating gear 75 and rotates together with the second conveying component 69.

[0082] The third gear 74 is located above the oscillating gear 75. The third gear 74 is separated from and parallel to the second gear 73. The third gear 74 is located on the side closer to the first conveying member 68 than the second gear 73. The third gear 74 rotates by receiving the driving force of the motor 71 from the oscillating gear 75.

[0083] The oscillating gear 75 is located above the first gear 72 and below the second gear 73 and the third gear 74. The oscillating gear 75 is always engaged with the first gear 72. The rotation shaft 751 of the oscillating gear 75 is rotatably supported within an arc-shaped guide 78. The arc-shaped guide 78 is formed in an arc shape extending circumferentially along the first gear 72. Thus, the oscillating gear 75 engages with the first gear 72 and oscillates along the arc-shaped guide 78 on the outer periphery of the first gear 72. Furthermore, the oscillating gear 75 selectively engages with one of the second gear 73 and the third gear 74 through oscillation. The oscillating gear 75 transmits the driving force of the motor 71 obtained via the first gear 72 to either the second gear 73 or the third gear 74.

[0084] The idler gear 76 is positioned between the third gear 74 and the fourth gear 77. The idler gear 76 meshes with both the third gear 74 and the fourth gear 77. The idler gear 76 transmits the driving force of the motor 71 obtained via the third gear 74 to the fourth gear 77.

[0085] The fourth gear 77 is fixed coaxially with the rotating shaft 681 of the first conveying member 68. The fourth gear 77 meshes with the idler gear 76. In addition, the rotating shaft 761 of the idler gear 76 is parallel to the rotating shaft of the second gear 73 (the rotating shaft 691 of the second conveying member 69). That is, the fourth gear 77 is a gear with an angle α between the input shaft (the rotating shaft 761 of the idler gear 76) and the output shaft (the rotating shaft 681 of the first conveying member 68).

[0086] When the drive motor 71 causes the first gear 72 to... Figure 13 When rotated clockwise, the oscillating gear 75 receives driving force from the first gear 72 and rotates, and moves along the arc-shaped guide 78 on the outer periphery of the first gear 72. Figure 13The motor moves clockwise. As a result, the oscillating gear 75 meshes with the third gear 74, transmitting the driving force of the motor 71 to the third gear 74. The driving force of the motor 71 transmitted to the third gear 74 is then transmitted to the fourth gear 77 via the idler gear 76. The first conveying member 68 then rotates via the fourth gear 77 through the conveying drive unit 70, conveying the toner along the toner conveying direction f1. Meanwhile, the second conveying member 69 stops rotating.

[0087] When the drive motor 71 causes the first gear 72 to... Figure 13 When rotated counterclockwise, the oscillating gear 75 receives driving force from the first gear 72 and rotates, and moves along the arc-shaped guide 78 on the outer periphery of the first gear 72. Figure 13 The motor moves counterclockwise. As a result, the oscillating gear 75 meshes with the second gear 73, transmitting the driving force of the motor 71 to the second gear 73. Then, the second conveying member 69 rotates via the second gear 73 through the conveying drive unit 70, conveying the toner along the toner conveying direction f2. Meanwhile, the first conveying member 68 stops rotating.

[0088] In this way, the conveying drive unit 70 selectively rotates one of the first conveying member 68 and the second conveying member 69.

[0089] A loosening component 79A is disposed within the replenishment tube 63. The loosening component 79A is formed of wire made of a metal such as stainless steel. The loosening component 79A is connected to the first conveying component 68 and the second conveying component 69, respectively, and extends into the replenishment tube 63. The loosening component 79A extends, for example, along the entire length of the replenishment tube 63 in the vertical direction. The loosening component 79A is configured to reciprocate in the extending direction (vertical direction) of the replenishment tube 63.

[0090] According to the above configuration, as the first conveying member 68 and the second conveying member 69 rotate, the loosening member 79A can move within the replenishment tube 63. Thus, the adhesion and aggregation of toner to the inner wall of the single replenishment tube 63 connected to the first conveying tube 66 and the second conveying tube 67 can be suppressed with a simple configuration.

[0091] (First Implementation)

[0092] Next, the structure of the loose component 79A in the first embodiment will be described. Figure 14 yes Figure 12 A magnified perspective view of the area surrounding the loose component 79A of the toner replenishment device 60. Figure 15 yes Figure 14 A perspective view of the loose component 79A of the first embodiment shown.

[0093] The first conveying member 68 has a first crank portion 68a, and the second conveying member 69 has a second crank portion 69a. The first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a are disposed in the confluence portion 60a. The first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a are connected to the loosening member 79A.

[0094] The first crank portion 68a protrudes in a direction intersecting the axis of the first conveying member 68. In other words, the first crank portion 68a protrudes radially outward from the axis of rotation of the first conveying member 68, and is bent into a generally U-shaped form when viewed from the direction intersecting the axis. The central portion of the first crank portion 68a in the axial direction is formed into a cylindrical shape extending along the axial direction.

[0095] The second crank portion 69a protrudes in a direction intersecting the axis of the second conveying member 69. In other words, the second crank portion 69a protrudes radially outward from the axis of rotation of the second conveying member 69, and is bent into a roughly U-shape when viewed from the direction intersecting the axis. The central portion of the second crank portion 69a in the axial direction is formed into a cylindrical shape extending along the axial direction.

[0096] The loosening component 79A is connected to the first conveying component 68 and the second conveying component 69 at the confluence portion 60a. The loosening component 79A has a connecting portion 791A and a loosening portion 792.

[0097] The connecting portion 791A is disposed on the upper part of the loosening member 79A. The connecting portion 791A is located above the upper end of the supplementary tube 63 and is disposed within the confluence portion 60a. Viewed from the axial direction of the first conveying member 68 and the second conveying member 69, the connecting portion 791A is annular. Specifically, the connecting portion 791A is, for example, bent into a generally C-shape, having an opening 7911A with a partial circumferential defect. The opening 7911A is located on the upper part of the connecting portion 791A. Both ends of the wire in the connecting portion 791A are further bent upwards.

[0098] The connecting portion 791A spans the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a. In other words, the connecting portion 791A encloses the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a. The first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a are connected to the inside of the connecting portion 791A via the opening 7911A. With this configuration, the loose member 79A can be easily connected to the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a.

[0099] The loose portion 792 is disposed at the lower part of the loose member 79A. The loose portion 792 has a connecting portion 7921, an extension portion 7922, and a bending portion 7923.

[0100] The connecting portion 7921 is located at the upper end of the loosening portion 792. Viewed from a direction intersecting the axial direction of the first conveying member 68 and the second conveying member 69, the connecting portion 7921 is bent into a ring shape. The lower part of the connecting portion 791A passes through the connecting portion 7921. Thus, the loosening portion 792 is connected to the connecting portion 791A.

[0101] The extension 7922 and the bend 7923 extend downward from the connecting portion 7921. That is, the loose portion 792 extends toward the inside of the replenishing tube 63. The extension 7922 extends downward in a straight line along the extending direction of the replenishing tube 63 after the connecting portion 7921.

[0102] The bent portion 7923 extends further downward from the extension portion 7922. The bent portion 7923 is formed by bending radially toward the supplementary tube 63 relative to the extension portion 7922. Viewed from a direction intersecting the extension direction of the supplementary tube 63, the bent portion 7923 is, for example, bent into a roughly V-shape.

[0103] A ring-shaped portion 7924 is formed at the lower end of the bent portion 7923. Viewed from a direction intersecting the extending direction of the supplementary tube 63, the ring-shaped portion 7924 is, for example, bent into a circular shape. In this embodiment, the ring-shaped portion 7924 is, for example, formed into a two-ring shape.

[0104] According to this configuration, while the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a rotate respectively, the loosening component 79A can move back and forth in the vertical direction within the replenishment tube 63. Thus, the adhesion and aggregation of toner to the inner wall of the single replenishment tube 63 connected to the first delivery tube 66 and the second delivery tube 67 can be suppressed through a simple structure.

[0105] Furthermore, the loosening component 79A has a counterweight (ring-shaped portion 7924) at the lower end located inside the replenishment tube 63. By utilizing its inertia, the effect of the toner adhering to and agglomerating on the inner wall surface of the replenishment tube 63 can be improved.

[0106] Figure 16 yes Figure 10 A rear cross-sectional view of the rotating detection section 80 of the toner replenishment device 60. Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 It means Figure 16 The diagram illustrates the rotational states of the first detection shaft 81 and the second detection shaft 82. The rotation detection unit 80 is located at the rear of the toner replenishment device 60, positioned upstream of the toner delivery direction of the second delivery pipe 67 relative to the delivery drive unit 70. The rotation detection unit 80 includes the first detection shaft 81, the second detection shaft 82, and an optical sensor 83.

[0107] The first detection shaft 81 is extended and connected on the same axis as the rotating shaft 741 of the third gear 74 (see reference). Figure 12 and Figure 13 The first detection shaft 81 is connected to the first conveying member 68 via the third gear 74, the idler gear 76, and the fourth gear 77, and rotates together with the first conveying member 68. The first detection shaft 81 rotates in the same direction and at the same rotational speed as the first conveying member 68. In this embodiment, the first detection shaft 81 is adjacent to the second detection shaft 82 and extends parallel to the second detection shaft 82.

[0108] The first detection axis 81 has, for example, two first light-shielding plates 811. The two first light-shielding plates 811 extend radially outward toward the first detection axis 81 and are arranged at 180-degree angular intervals in the circumferential direction. By rotating the first detection axis 81, the first light-shielding plates 811 enter and exit the optical path relative to the optical sensor 83.

[0109] The second detection shaft 82 is extended and connected coaxially to the rotating shaft of the second gear 73 (see reference). Figure 12 and Figure 13 Furthermore, the second gear 73 is fixed coaxially with the rotating shaft 691 of the second conveying member 69. That is, the second detection shaft 82 is connected to the second conveying member 69 and rotates together with the second conveying member 69. The second detection shaft 82 rotates in the same direction and at the same rotational speed as the second conveying member 69.

[0110] The second detection axis 82 has, for example, two second light-shielding plates 821. The two second light-shielding plates 821 extend radially outward toward the second detection axis 82 and are arranged at 180-degree angular intervals in the circumferential direction. By rotating the second detection axis 82, the second light-shielding plates 821 enter and exit the optical path relative to the optical sensor 83.

[0111] An optical sensor 83 is disposed above the first detection axis 81 and the second detection axis 82. The rotation detection unit 80 includes a single optical sensor 83. The optical sensor 83 is, for example, a light-transmitting type sensor, including a light-emitting portion and a light-receiving portion (neither shown), and has a light path 83a from the light-emitting portion toward the light-receiving portion. Furthermore, the light path 83a runs parallel to the axial direction of the first detection axis 81 and the second detection axis 82. Figure 16 The paper extends in the depth direction. The optical sensor 83 detects the blocking (light blocking) and unblocking (light transmission) of the optical path 83a.

[0112] The first light-shielding plate 811 of the first detection shaft 81 and the second light-shielding plate 821 of the second detection shaft 82 enter and exit the optical path 83a of the optical sensor 83. Thus, the optical sensor 83 detects the rotation of the first detection shaft 81 and the second detection shaft 82. That is, the optical sensor 83 detects the rotation of the second gear 73 and the third gear 74. The optical sensor 83 outputs a signal related to the detection of the rotation of the second gear 73 and the third gear 74 to the control unit 8.

[0113] The control unit 8 receives the output signal from the optical sensor 83. The control unit 8 has... Figure 2 The remaining quantity detection unit 8a is shown. Furthermore, the remaining quantity detection unit 8a functions in software by processing data through a CPU according to a program stored in the memory. Alternatively, the remaining quantity detection unit 8a can also be formed using electrical hardware circuitry.

[0114] The remaining amount detection unit 8a detects the remaining amount of toner in the first container 51 and the second container 52 based on the output signal of the optical sensor 83. Specifically, the remaining amount detection unit 8a counts the rotational speeds of the second gear 73 and the third gear 74 based on the output signal from the optical sensor 83, and detects the remaining amount of toner in the first container 51 and the second container 52 based on the rotational speed.

[0115] The remaining quantity detection unit 8a counts the rotational speed of the third gear 74 (first transport member 68) based on the output signal from the optical sensor 83, and detects that the toner in the first container 51 is depleted based on this rotational speed. The control unit 8 controls the motor 71 to stop the rotation of the first transport member 68, thus stopping the replenishment of toner from the first container 51 to the developing apparatus 40. Next, the control unit 8 reverses the motor 71 to rotate the second gear 73 (second transport member 69), and begins replenishing toner from the second container 52 to the developing apparatus 40.

[0116] Similarly, the remaining quantity detection unit 8a detects the depletion of toner in the second container 52 based on the rotational speed of the second gear 73 (second conveying member 69). Next, the control unit 8 controls the motor 71 to rotate the third gear 74 (first conveying member 68) to begin replenishing toner from the first container 51 to the developing apparatus 40.

[0117] Based on the above configuration, the rotation of the second gear 73 (second conveying member 69) and the third gear 74 (first conveying member 68) can be detected individually using a single optical sensor 83. Thus, by achieving a low-cost, miniaturized structure, the remaining amount of toner in each of the two containers (first container 51 and second container 52) that replenish toner to a developing apparatus 40 can be detected with high precision.

[0118] For example, such as Figure 17 As shown, when the toner in the first container 51 is used up, the first detection shaft 81 sometimes stops rotating. According to... Figure 17 The first light-shielding plate 811 of the first detection axis 81 exists on the optical path 83a of the optical sensor 83, and blocks the optical path.

[0119] Next, the control unit 8 starts rotating the second delivery member 69 by controlling the motor 71, and begins replenishing the toner from the second container 52. As a result, the second detection shaft 82 rotates together with the second delivery member 69. Then, as... Figure 18 As shown, the second light-shielding plate 821 of the second detection axis 82 is in contact with the first light-shielding plate 811 on the optical path 83a of the optical sensor 83.

[0120] Furthermore, when the second detection axis 82 rotates, such as Figure 19 As shown, the second light-shielding plate 821 pushes aside the first light-shielding plate 811, causing the first light-shielding plate 811 to retract from the optical path 83a of the optical sensor 83. The first light-shielding plate 811 retracts to a position within a larger rotational region than the second light-shielding plate 821. Figure 19 The inner side of the double-dotted circle (the outer part) is not detected by the optical sensor 83.

[0121] Additionally, when the toner in the second container 52 is depleted, the image forming apparatus 1 can replenish the toner from the first container 51 to the developing apparatus 40. Similarly, when the second light-shielding plate 821 is present in the optical path 83a of the optical sensor 83, the first light-shielding plate 811 contacts the second light-shielding plate 821 and pushes it away, causing the second light-shielding plate 821 to retract from the optical path 83a of the optical sensor 83.

[0122] In this way, one of the first light-shielding plate 811 and the second light-shielding plate 821 rotates and comes into contact with the other, thereby causing the other to retract from the optical path 83a of the optical sensor 83. That is, one of the first light-shielding plate 811 and the second light-shielding plate 821 forces the other to rotate, thereby causing one of the first conveying member 68 and the second conveying member 69 connected to the other to rotate.

[0123] Figure 20 yes Figure 14 A partial front view of the loose component 79A. The connecting portion 791A of the loose component 79A is connected to the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a.

[0124] The central axis of the first crank section 68a is at Figure 20 The trajectory shown circles around CC1. Figure 20 The double-dotted line on track CC1 represents the first crank portion 68a. Furthermore, the first crank portion 68a is furthest from the second crank portion 69a at position P11 on track CC1, and closest to the second crank portion 69a at position P12 on track CC1.

[0125] The central axis of the second crank section 69a is at Figure 20 The trajectory shown circles around CC2. Figure 20The double-dotted line on track CC2 represents the second crank portion 69a. Furthermore, the second crank portion 69a is furthest from the first crank portion 68a at position P21 on track CC2, and closest to the first crank portion 68a at position P22 on track CC2.

[0126] Regarding the first detection axis 81, as follows: Figure 17 As shown, when one of the first light-shielding plates 811 is located on the optical path 83a, the first crank portion 68a is, for example, positioned at position P11 on the track CC1. Conversely, when the other party's first light-shielding plate 811 is located on the optical path 83a, the first crank portion 68a is, for example, positioned at position P12 on the track CC1.

[0127] Regarding the second detection axis 82, when one of the second light-shielding plates 821 is located on the optical path 83a, the second crank portion 69a is, for example, positioned at position P21 on the track CC2. Conversely, when the other second light-shielding plate 821 is located on the optical path 83a, the second crank portion 69a is, for example, positioned at position P22 on the track CC2.

[0128] When the first crank portion 68a is in position P11 and the second crank portion 69a is in position P21, the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a are maximally far apart. Furthermore, when the first crank portion 68a is in position P12 and the second crank portion 69a is in position P22, the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a are maximally close.

[0129] As described above, one of the first light-shielding plate 811 and the second light-shielding plate 821 causes the other to retract from the optical path 83a, thereby causing one of the first conveying member 68 and the second conveying member 69 connected to the other to rotate. That is, when the toner in the first container 51 is depleted, the first conveying member 68 stops rotating, and the second conveying member 69 starts rotating, the second light-shielding plate 821 causes the first light-shielding plate 811 to retract from the optical path 83a, thereby moving the first crank portion 68a from position P11 or position P12. Furthermore, when the toner in the second container 52 is depleted, the second conveying member 69 stops rotating, and the first conveying member 68 starts rotating, the first light-shielding plate 811 causes the second light-shielding plate 821 to retract from the optical path 83a, thereby moving the second crank portion 69a from position P21 or position P22.

[0130] Here, when the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a are in a state of maximum distance, the first conveying member 68 and the second conveying member 69 are constrained by the connecting portion 791A of the loosening member 79A and are difficult to rotate. Furthermore, when the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a are in a state of maximum proximity, the wobbling of the connecting portion 791A increases, and the connecting portion 791A is prone to detaching from the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a. Moreover, in these states, abnormal noise and other adverse conditions may occur.

[0131] In contrast, according to the above configuration of this embodiment, one of the first light-shielding plate 811 and the second light-shielding plate 821 causes the other to retreat from the light path 83a, thereby shortening the distance between the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a from a state of maximum distance or increasing the distance from a state of maximum proximity. With this configuration, both the states of maximum distance and maximum proximity between the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a can be eliminated. As a result, the first conveying member 68 and the second conveying member 69 can rotate smoothly, the connection between the loosening member 79A and the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a can be maintained, and the generation of abnormal noise can be suppressed.

[0132] (Second Implementation)

[0133] Next, the structure of the loose component 79B in the second embodiment will be described. Figure 21 This is a partial front view of the loose component 79B of the second embodiment. Figure 22 It means Figure 21 A partial front view of the displacement state of the loose component 79B. Furthermore, since the basic structure of the second embodiment is the same as that of the previously described first embodiment, common constituent elements are sometimes labeled with the same reference numerals or names as described above, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0134] The loosening member 79B of the second embodiment has a connecting portion 791B and a loosening portion 792. Viewed from the axial direction of the first conveying member 68 and the second conveying member 69, the connecting portion 791B is, for example, formed in a generally elliptical or elliptical shape. The connecting portion 791B encloses the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a. That is, the connecting portion 791B connects across the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a.

[0135] The connecting part 791B has a first external contact part 7911B and a second external contact part 7912B. The first external contact part 7911B and the second external contact part 7912B are arranged in a side-by-side direction in which the first conveying member 68 and the second conveying member 69 are arranged. Figure 21The first outer contact portion 7911B and the second outer contact portion 7912B are arranged in the side-by-side direction Db and contact the circumferential surfaces of the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a from the outside.

[0136] exist Figure 21 In this context, "L1" represents the length along the parallel arrangement direction Db between the first outer contact portion 7911B and the second outer contact portion 7912B. "C1" represents the distance between the furthest outer peripheries of the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a along the parallel arrangement direction Db when the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a are at positions P11 on track CC1 and P21 on track CC2, respectively. In other words, the length L1 along the parallel arrangement direction Db between the first outer contact portion 7911B and the second outer contact portion 7912B is shorter than the distance C1 between the furthest outer peripheries of the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a in the state where the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a are at their maximum distance from each other.

[0137] Based on the above structure, such as Figure 22 As shown, when the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a stop at their maximum distance from each other, the elastic force of the connecting portion 791B causes one of them to move from position P11 on track CC1 or position P21 on track CC2 toward the inside of the side-by-side arrangement direction Db. That is, the maximum distance between the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a is eliminated. As a result, constraint and wobbling are eliminated in the connection between the connecting portion 791B and the first conveying member 68 and the second conveying member 69, allowing the first conveying member 68 and the second conveying member 69 to rotate smoothly.

[0138] (Third Implementation)

[0139] Next, the structure of the loose component 79C in the third embodiment will be described. Figure 23 This is a partial front view of the loose component 79C of the third embodiment. Furthermore, the basic structure of the third embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment described above, so common components are sometimes labeled with the same reference numerals or names as described above, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0140] The loosening member 79C of the third embodiment has a connecting portion 791C and a loosening portion 792. Viewed from the axial direction of the first conveying member 68 and the second conveying member 69, the connecting portion 791C is, for example, generally elliptical in shape or an elliptical shape. Furthermore, the connecting portion 791C has a recess 7913C that is recessed downward from the center of the side-by-side arrangement direction Db of the first conveying member 68 and the second conveying member 69. The connecting portion 791C encloses the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a on the outside of the recess 7913C. That is, the connecting portion 791C connects across the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a.

[0141] The connecting portion 791C has a first inner contact portion 7911C and a second inner contact portion 7912C. The first inner contact portion 7911C and the second inner contact portion 7912C are disposed at both ends of the recess 7913C in the side-by-side arrangement direction Db. The first inner contact portion 7911C and the second inner contact portion 7912C make contact with the circumferential surfaces of the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a from the inside in the side-by-side arrangement direction Db.

[0142] exist Figure 23 In this context, "L2" represents the length along the parallel arrangement direction Db between the first inner contact portion 7911C and the second inner contact portion 7912C. "C2" represents the distance between the closest outer peripheries of the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a along the parallel arrangement direction Db, when the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a are at positions P12 on track CC1 and P22 on track CC2, respectively. In other words, the length L2 along the parallel arrangement direction Db between the first inner contact portion 7911C and the second inner contact portion 7912C is longer than the distance C2 between the closest outer peripheries of the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a along the parallel arrangement direction Db when they are at their closest point.

[0143] According to the above configuration, when the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a stop in a state of maximum proximity, the elastic force of the connecting portion 791C causes one of the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a to move from position P12 on track CC1 or position P22 on track CC2 toward the outside of the side-by-side arrangement direction Db. That is, the state of maximum proximity between the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a can be eliminated. As a result, in the connection between the connecting portion 791C and the first conveying member 68 and the second conveying member 69, constraint and wobbling are eliminated, allowing the first conveying member 68 and the second conveying member 69 to rotate smoothly.

[0144] (Fourth Implementation)

[0145] Next, the structure of the loose component 79D in the fourth embodiment will be described. Figure 24 This is a front view of the loose component 79D of the fourth embodiment. Furthermore, the basic structure of the fourth embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment described above, so common components are sometimes labeled with the same reference numerals or names as described above, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0146] The loosened component 79D of the fourth embodiment has a connecting portion 791D and a loosened portion 792D. The connecting portion 791D has two circular portions 7911D and two straight portions 7912D.

[0147] Viewed from the axial direction of the first conveying member 68 and the second conveying member 69, the two circular portions 7911D are formed to be approximately circular. The two circular portions 7911D respectively enclose the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a, and are adjacent to their outer periphery throughout the entire circumferential area.

[0148] The two straight sections 7912D are connected to the inner sides of the first conveying members 68 and the second conveying members 69 of the two circular sections 7911D, which are arranged side-by-side in the parallel arrangement direction Db. The two straight sections 7912D extend from their respective connection points with the two circular sections 7911D toward the inner side of the parallel arrangement direction Db. The two straight sections 7912D are arranged on the same straight line.

[0149] The loosening portion 792D is disposed at the center of the loosening member 79D in the side-by-side arrangement direction Db. The loosening portion 792D is connected to the central end of each of the two straight portions 7912D in the side-by-side arrangement direction Db. The loosening portion 792D protrudes downward relative to the two straight portions 7912D and is curved into a roughly U-shape when viewed from the axial direction of the first conveying member 68 and the second conveying member 69. The loosening portion 792D extends toward the inner end of the replenishment tube 63.

[0150] Based on the above configuration, the elastic force of the approximately U-shaped loose portion 792D can eliminate the states of maximum distance and maximum proximity between the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a. As a result, the first conveying member 68 and the second conveying member 69 can rotate smoothly, the connection between the loose portion 79D and the first crank portion 68a and the second crank portion 69a can be maintained, and the generation of abnormal noise can be suppressed.

[0151] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications can be made to implement it without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0152] For example, in the above embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 is a so-called serial color printing image forming apparatus that sequentially overlaps images of multiple colors, but it is not limited to such a type. The image forming apparatus may also be a non-serial color printing image forming apparatus or a black and white printing image forming apparatus.

Claims

1. A toner replenishment device, characterized in that, The toner replenishment device replenishes the toner in the first and second containers of the developing device. The toner replenishment device includes: A single replenishment tube is connected to the developing apparatus to allow the toner to flow into the developing apparatus; A first delivery tube is connected between the first container and the single replenishment tube, delivering the toner from the first container side toward the replenishment tube side; A second delivery tube, connected between the second container and the single replenishment tube, delivers the toner from the second container side toward the replenishment tube side; A first conveying component is rotatably disposed within the first conveying tube to convey the toner from the first container side toward the replenishment tube side; A second conveying component, rotatably disposed within the second conveying tube, conveys the toner from the second container side toward the replenishment tube side; and The loosening component is configured within a single replenishment tube in a manner that allows it to reciprocate along the extension direction of the replenishment tube. The first and second delivery pipes are arranged in directions intersecting each other's extending directions to converge at a junction with the single supplementary pipe. The loosening component is connected to the first conveying component and the second conveying component at the confluence, respectively, and extends toward the single replenishment tube. One of the first conveying component and the second conveying component rotates selectively. As one of the first conveying component and the second conveying component rotates, the loosening component moves back and forth within a single replenishing tube along the extension direction of the replenishing tube.

2. The toner replenishment device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first conveying component has a first crank portion that protrudes in a direction intersecting the axial direction of the first conveying component and is connected to the loosening component. The second conveying component has a second crank portion that protrudes in a direction intersecting the axial direction of the second conveying component and is connected to the loosening component. The porous component includes: A ring-shaped connecting portion spans the first crank portion and the second crank portion; and The loose portion connects to the connecting portion and extends toward the interior of the replenishment tube.

3. The toner replenishment device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The connecting part has an opening formed by a partial circumferential defect. The first crank portion and the second crank portion are connected to the inside of the connecting portion via the opening.

4. The toner replenishment device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The connecting portion has a first outer contact portion and a second outer contact portion, which, in the side-by-side arrangement of the first conveying component and the second conveying component, contact the circumferential surfaces of the first crank portion and the second crank portion from the outside. The length between the first outer contact portion and the second outer contact portion in the side-by-side arrangement direction is shorter than the distance between the farthest outer periphery of the first crank portion and the second crank portion in the side-by-side arrangement direction when the first crank portion and the second crank portion are at their maximum distance from each other.

5. The toner replenishment device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The connecting portion has a first inner contact portion and a second inner contact portion, which, in the side-by-side arrangement direction of the first conveying component and the second conveying component, contact the circumferential surfaces of the first crank portion and the second crank portion from the inside. The length between the first inner contact portion and the second inner contact portion in the side-by-side arrangement direction is longer than the distance between the nearest outer periphery of the first crank portion and the second crank portion in the side-by-side arrangement direction when the first crank portion and the second crank portion are in a state of maximum proximity.

6. The toner replenishment device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The toner replenishment device includes: The first detection shaft is connected to the first conveying component and rotates together with the first conveying component; The second detection shaft is connected to the second conveying component and rotates together with the second conveying component; A single optical sensor detects the rotation of the first detection axis and the second detection axis; and The remaining quantity detection unit counts the rotational speeds of the first and second detection shafts based on the output signal from the optical sensor, and detects the remaining quantity of toner in the first and second containers based on these rotational speeds. The first detection axis has a first light-shielding plate that enters and retracts relative to the optical path of the optical sensor. The second detection axis has a second light-shielding plate that enters and retracts relative to the optical path of the optical sensor. One of the first and second light-shielding plates rotates and comes into contact with the other, thereby causing the other to retract from the optical path of the optical sensor, and causing one of the first and second conveying components connected to the other to rotate, so that the distance between the first crank portion and the second crank portion becomes shorter relative to the state of maximum distance or longer relative to the state of maximum proximity.

7. An image forming apparatus, characterized in that, include: The developing unit supplies toner to the image carrier; The first container and the second container hold the toner that is supplied to the developing apparatus; as well as The toner replenishment device of claim 1 replenishes the toner in the first container and the second container of the developing device.

Images