Toner container

Abstract

A toner container for an image forming apparatus includes a toner containing portion in which toner is contained, a base portion including a receiving port for receiving the toner contained in the toner containing portion, a discharge port for allowing the toner received through the receiving port to be discharged to an outside of the toner container, and a passage extending from the receiving port to the discharge port and for allowing the toner to pass therethrough, and a shutter configured to be rotatable relative to the base portion about a rotation axis between an open position in which the discharge port is exposed to the outside and a closed position in which the shutter covers the discharge port, wherein the passage extends in a direction in which the passage is inclined relative to the rotation axis such that the receiving port is at a position in which the receiving port intersects the rotation axis and such that the discharge port is at a position in which the discharge port does not intersect the rotation axis.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application entitled "Toner Container", with an international filing date of July 31, 2020, international application number PCT / JP2020 / 030288, and national application number 202080056391.2. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a toner container that can be installed in an image forming apparatus for forming an image on a recording material. Background Technology

[0003] Typically, electrophotographic image forming apparatuses form images by transferring a toner image formed on the surface of a photosensitive drum onto a transfer material that serves as the transfer medium. Furthermore, regarding the type of developer supply, for example, there are known processing cartridge type or toner supply (replenishment) type. The processing cartridge type integrates the photosensitive drum and the developing container into a single processing cartridge, in which the processing cartridge is replaced with a new one when the developer is depleted.

[0004] On the other hand, toner-supply type is a type that resupply (replenishes) toner to the developing container when the toner is depleted. Conventionally, a toner-supply type single-component developing apparatus has been proposed (see Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 08-30084), in which a toner supply tank capable of supplying toner is connected to a toner feed channel, along which toner is fed. The toner stored in the toner supply tank is fed into the toner feed channel by a feed screw. Summary of the Invention

[0005] [The problem this invention aims to solve]

[0006] In recent years, users have demanded the use of toner containers that can be installed in image forming apparatuses in various ways.

[0007] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a toner container that is installed in an image forming apparatus.

[0008] [Methods used to solve problems]

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, a toner container for an image forming apparatus is provided, comprising: a toner receiving portion therein containing toner; a base portion including a receiving port for receiving toner contained in the toner receiving portion, an outlet for allowing toner received through the receiving port to be discharged to the outside of the toner container, and a channel extending from the receiving port to the outlet and for allowing toner to pass through; and a baffle configured to rotate about a rotation axis relative to the base portion between an open position in which the outlet is exposed to the outside and a closed position in which the baffle covers the outlet, wherein the channel extends in a direction inclined relative to the rotation axis such that the receiving port is in a position where the receiving port intersects the rotation axis, and the outlet is in a position where the outlet does not intersect the rotation axis. Attached Figure Description

[0010] exist Figure 1 Part (a) is a cross-sectional view of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment, and part (b) is a perspective view of the image forming apparatus.

[0011] exist Figure 2 Part (a) is a cross-sectional view of the image forming apparatus, and part (b) is a perspective view of the image forming apparatus with the top cover open.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view showing the image forming apparatus in the state of having its processing box disassembled.

[0013] exist Figure 4 Part (a) is a perspective view of the image forming apparatus in the state where the pressure plate of the reading device is closed, part (b) is a perspective view of the image forming apparatus in the state where the pressure plate is open, and part (c) is a perspective view of the image forming apparatus in the state where the reading device is open.

[0014] exist Figure 5 Part (a) is a perspective view showing the developer container and toner bag, and part (b) is a front view showing the developer container and toner bag.

[0015] exist Figure 6 In the middle, part (a) is Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of section (b) 6A-6A (line), section (b) is Figure 5 Section (b) is a cross-sectional view of line 6B-6B.

[0016] Figure 7 This is a perspective view showing the toner bag.

[0017] exist Figure 8 In the image, part (a) is a front view of the toner bag, part (b) is a front view of a first variant of the toner bag, and part (c) is a front view of a second variant of the toner bag.

[0018] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view showing the first and second toner remaining amount sensors.

[0019] Figure 10 This is a circuit diagram showing the first and second toner remaining amount sensors.

[0020] exist Figure 11 In the diagram, part (a) is a cross-sectional view showing a small amount of toner remaining, and part (b) is a cross-sectional view showing a large amount of toner remaining.

[0021] Figure 12 This is a block diagram showing the control system of the image forming apparatus.

[0022] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating the toner supply process.

[0023] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating the process for detecting and processing the remaining amount of toner.

[0024] Figure 15 This is a perspective view showing the operating section.

[0025] exist Figure 16 In the diagram, part (a) is a cross-sectional view showing the toner bag installed on the supply port, part (b) is a cross-sectional view showing the toner starting to be dispensed from the toner bag, and part (c) is a cross-sectional view showing the toner in the toner bag being completely supplied to the developing container.

[0026] exist Figure 17 Part (a) is a perspective view showing the toner remaining panel when the toner remaining level is low, part (b) is a perspective view showing the toner remaining panel when the toner remaining level is medium, and part (c) is a perspective view showing the toner remaining panel when the toner remaining level is full.

[0027] exist Figure 18 Part (a) is a graph showing the relationship between the volume of the developing container and the level of toner remaining, part (b) is a graph showing the level of toner remaining when toner is supplied from a small-capacity toner pouch, and part (c) is a graph showing the level of toner remaining when toner is supplied from a large-capacity toner pouch.

[0028] exist Figure 19Part (a) is a perspective view showing a first variant of the image forming apparatus, part (b) is a perspective view showing a second variant of the image forming apparatus, and part (c) is a perspective view showing a third variant.

[0029] exist Figure 20 Part (a) is a perspective view showing a fourth variant of the image forming apparatus, and part (b) is a perspective view showing a fifth variant of the image forming apparatus.

[0030] exist Figure 21 Part (a) is a perspective view showing the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment, and part (b) is a cross-sectional view showing the image forming apparatus.

[0031] exist Figure 22 Part (a) is a perspective view showing a variant of the image forming apparatus of the second embodiment, and part (b) is a cross-sectional view showing a variant of the image forming apparatus of the second embodiment.

[0032] exist Figure 23 Part (a) is a cross-sectional view showing the image forming apparatus of the third embodiment, and part (b) is a cross-sectional view showing the image forming apparatus in the state where the processing cartridge is pulled out.

[0033] Figure 24 This is a cross-sectional view showing the toner bag installed on the processing box in the pulled-out position.

[0034] exist Figure 25 Part (a) is a perspective view showing the image forming apparatus in the state where the processing cartridge is pulled out, and part (b) is a perspective view showing the state where the toner bag is installed on the processing cartridge in the pulled-out state.

[0035] Figure 26 Includes a perspective view showing the entire toner bag.

[0036] Figure 27 This is an exploded perspective view showing the components that make up the toner bag.

[0037] Figure 28 This is an exploded perspective view showing the components that make up the toner bag.

[0038] Figure 29 Includes a perspective view showing the state in which the second sheet is fixed to the second baffle.

[0039] Figure 30 Includes perspective and cross-sectional views of the supply base.

[0040] Figure 31 This is a cross-sectional view of the toner bag.

[0041] Figure 32This is a perspective view showing the connection status between the supply base and the toner bag.

[0042] exist Figure 33 Part (a) is a perspective view showing the toner supply port of the toner bag in the closed state, and part (b) is a perspective view showing the toner supply port of the toner bag in the open state.

[0043] Figure 34 A perspective view including the supply port of the developing container.

[0044] Figure 35 This is an exploded perspective view showing the feed port and surrounding components of the developing container.

[0045] Figure 36 This is an exploded perspective view showing the feed port and surrounding components of the developing container.

[0046] Figure 37 It is a cross-sectional view of the supply port and surrounding components of the processing box.

[0047] Figure 38 Includes a perspective view showing the positional relationship between the baffle cover and the first seal.

[0048] Figure 39 Includes a perspective view showing the supply port closed and the toner bag engaged.

[0049] Figure 40 Includes a schematic cross-sectional view showing the toner bag mounted on the developing container.

[0050] Figure 41 Includes a perspective view showing the bidirectional axis and peripheral portion.

[0051] Figure 42 This is a perspective view showing another example of a downstream side opening.

[0052] Figure 43 Includes a cross-sectional view showing the toner bag and developer container connected to each other.

[0053] Figure 44 Includes a schematic cross-sectional view showing the toner bag mounted on the developing container.

[0054] Figure 45 This is a perspective view showing another embodiment of the connection between the toner bag and the supply base 501. Detailed Implementation

[0055] In the following description, exemplary embodiments will be illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0056] <First Embodiment>

[0057] Figure 1 Part (a) is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. The image forming apparatus 1 is a monochrome printer for forming an image on a recording material based on image information input from an external device. The recording material includes various sheets of different materials, including paper (e.g., plain paper and thick paper), plastic film (e.g., sheets for overhead projectors), specially shaped sheets (e.g., envelopes and index paper), cloth, etc.

[0058] [Overall Structure]

[0059] like Figure 1 As shown in parts (a) and (b), the image forming apparatus 1 includes a printer main assembly 100 as a main component of the apparatus, a reader 200 supported and capable of being opened relative to the printer main assembly 100, and an operation section 300 mounted to the housing surface of the printer main assembly 100. The printer main assembly 100 includes an image forming section 10 for forming a toner image on recording material, a feed section 60 for feeding recording material to the image forming section 10, a fixing section 70 for fixing the toner image formed by the image forming section 10 onto the recording material, and an exhaust roller pair 80.

[0060] The image forming section 10 includes a scanner unit 11, an electrophotographic processing cartridge 20, and a transfer roller 12 for transferring a toner image formed on a photosensitive drum 21 of the processing cartridge 20 onto a recording material. Figure 6 As shown in parts (a) and (b), the processing cartridge 20 includes a developing device 30, which includes a photosensitive drum 21, a charging roller 22 disposed around the photosensitive drum 21, a pre-exposure device 23, and a developing roller 31.

[0061] The photosensitive drum 21 is a photosensitive component molded into a cylindrical shape. In this embodiment, the photosensitive drum 21 includes a photosensitive layer formed of a negatively charged organic photosensitive component on a drum-shaped substrate molded from aluminum. Furthermore, the photosensitive drum 21, which serves as an image carrier, is driven by a motor to rotate in a predetermined direction (clockwise in the figure) at a predetermined processing speed.

[0062] The charging roller 22 contacts the photosensitive drum 21 with a predetermined pressing force to form a charging section. Furthermore, a desired charging voltage is applied to the charging roller 22 via a high-voltage charging voltage source, causing the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 to be uniformly charged to a predetermined potential. In this embodiment, the photosensitive drum 21 is charged to the negative polarity by the charging roller 22. To generate a stable discharge at the charging section, the pre-exposure device 23 releases the surface potential of the photosensitive drum 21 before it enters the charging section.

[0063] The scanner unit 11 uses a multifaceted mirror to irradiate the photosensitive drum 21 with a laser corresponding to the image information input from an external device or reading device 200, causing the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 to undergo scanning exposure. Through such exposure, an electrostatic latent image, depending on the image information, is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 21. Incidentally, the scanner unit 11 is not limited to a laser scanner device, but may also be an LED exposure device including an LED array (in which multiple LEDs are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the photosensitive drum 21).

[0064] The developing apparatus 30 includes a developing roller 31 as a developer carrier for carrying developer, a developing container 32 as a frame for the developing apparatus 30, and a supply roller 33 capable of supplying developer to the developing roller 31. The developing roller 31 and the supply roller 33 are rotatably supported by the developing container 32. Furthermore, the developing roller 31 is positioned opposite the photosensitive drum 21 at the opening of the developing container 31. The supply roller 33 rotatably contacts the developing roller 31, and toner (which is the developer contained in the developing container 32) is applied to the surface of the developing roller 31 through the supply roller 33. Incidentally, when a configuration is adopted that can adequately supply toner to the developing roller 31, the supply roller 33 is not necessarily required.

[0065] In this embodiment, the developing apparatus 30 uses a contact developing type. That is, the toner layer carried on the developing roller 31 contacts the photosensitive drum 21 at the developing portion (developing area) where the photosensitive drum 21 and the developing roller 31 are opposite each other. A developing voltage is applied to the developing roller 31 by a high-voltage developing voltage source. With the developing voltage applied, the toner carried on the developing roller 31 is transferred from the developing roller 31 to the drum surface according to the potential distribution on the surface of the photosensitive drum 21, thereby developing the electrostatic latent image into a toner image. Incidentally, in this embodiment, a reverse developing type is used. That is, the surface area of ​​the photosensitive drum 21 is charged in the charging step and then exposed in the exposure step to attenuate the charge, so that the toner image is formed by deposition on the surface area of ​​the photosensitive drum 21.

[0066] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a toner with a particle size of 6 μm and a normal charged electrode polarity of negative is used. As an example of the toner in this embodiment, a polymerized toner formed by a polymerization method is used. Furthermore, the toner in this embodiment is a so-called non-magnetic single-component developer, which does not contain magnetic components, and wherein the toner is primarily supported on the developing roller 31 by intermolecular forces or electrostatic forces (mirror forces). However, single-component developers containing magnetic components can also be used. Furthermore, in some cases, single-component developers, in addition to toner particles, also contain additives (e.g., wax or silica microparticles) for adjusting flowability and charged properties. Furthermore, as a developer, a two-component developer composed of a non-magnetic toner and a magnetic carrier can also be used. When using a magnetic developer, a cylindrical developing sleeve with a magnet disposed internally is used as the developer carrier.

[0067] Inside the developing container 32 is a stirring member 34 serving as a stirring device. This is achieved by a motor M1 (see...) Figure 12 Driven and rotated, the stirring member 34 not only stirs the toner in the developing container 32, but also delivers the toner to the developing roller 31 and the supply roller 33. Furthermore, the stirring member 34 has the function of circulating toner that has been stripped from the developing roller 31 and not used for development within the developing container, and of homogenizing the toner within the developing container. Incidentally, the stirring member 34 is not limited to a rotatable form. For example, a swingable stirring member may also be used.

[0068] Furthermore, at the opening of the developing roller 31 in the developing container 32, a developing blade 35 is provided for controlling the amount of toner carried on the developing roller 31. As the developing roller 31 rotates, the toner supplied to the surface of the developing roller 31 passes through the opposite part of the developing blade 35, causing the toner to form a thin layer uniformly and be charged to a negative polarity through triboelectric charging.

[0069] like Figure 1 As shown in portions (a) and (b), the feed section 60 includes a front door 61, a tray portion 62, an intermediate plate 63, a tray spring 64, and a pickup roller 65. The front door 61 is supported by the printer main assembly 100 to be openable. The tray portion 62 forms the bottom of the recording material receiving space revealed by opening the front door 61, and the intermediate plate 63 is supported by the tray portion 62 to be raised and lowered. The tray spring 64 pushes the intermediate plate 63 upward and presses the recording material stacked on the intermediate plate 63 against the pickup roller 65. Incidentally, the front door 61 closes the recording material receiving space when the front door 61 is closed relative to the printer main assembly 100, and supports the recording material P together with the tray portion 62 and the intermediate plate 63 when the front door 61 is open relative to the printer main assembly 100.

[0070] The fixing section 70 is a thermal fixing type, in which image fixing processing is performed by heating and melting the toner on the recording material. The fixing section 70 includes a fixing film 71, a fixing heater (e.g., a ceramic heater for heating the fixing film 71), a thermistor for measuring the temperature of the fixing heater, and a pressure roller 72 for pressing the fixing film 71.

[0071] Next, the image forming operation of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described. When an image forming command is input to the image forming apparatus 1, the image forming process of the image forming section 10 begins based on image information input from an external computer connected to the image forming apparatus 1 or from the reading device 200. The scanner unit 11 emits a laser to the photosensitive drum 21 based on the input image information. At this time, the photosensitive drum 21 is pre-charged by the charging roller 22 and irradiated by the laser, causing an electrostatic latent image to form on the photosensitive drum 21. Subsequently, the electrostatic latent image is developed by the developing roller 31, causing a toner image to form on the photosensitive drum 21.

[0072] In parallel with the image formation process described above, the pickup roller 65 of the feed section 60 delivers recording material P supported by the front door 61, tray section 62, and intermediate plate 63. The recording material P is fed by the pickup roller 65 to the registration roller pair 15 and abuts against the clamping portion of the registration roller pair 15, thereby correcting the tilting motion of the recording material P. Furthermore, the registration roller pair 15 is driven synchronously with the toner image transfer timing and is conveyed toward the transfer clamping portion formed by the transfer roller 12 and photosensitive drum 21.

[0073] A transfer voltage is applied from a high-voltage transfer voltage source to the transfer roller 12, which serves as a transfer device, causing the toner image carried on the photosensitive drum 21 to be transferred onto the recording material P conveyed by the registration roller pair 15. The recording material P onto which the toner image has been transferred is conveyed to the fixing section 70. As the recording material P passes through the clamping portion between the fixing film 71 and the pressure roller 72 of the fixing section 70, the toner image is heated and pressurized in the fixing section 70. As a result, the recording material P that has passed through the fixing section 70 is subsequently fixed, thereby fixing the toner image onto the recording material P. The recording material P that has passed through the fixing section 70 is discharged by the discharge roller pair 80, which serves as a discharge device, to the outside of the image forming apparatus 1 (the outside of the printer), so that the discharged recording material P is stacked on the discharge tray 81 to form a stacked portion formed on the upper part of the printer main assembly 100.

[0074] The discharge tray 81 is tilted upwards and downstream along the discharge direction of the recording material, and the recording material discharged onto the discharge tray 81 slides downwards on the discharge tray 81, so that the rear end of the recording material is aligned by the limiting surface 84.

[0075] like Figure 4As shown in parts (a) and (b), the reading device 200 includes a reading unit 201 and a pressure plate 202. The reading part (not shown) is constructed in the reading unit 201, and the pressure plate 202 is supported by the reading unit 201 to be able to open and close. A document support plate glass 203 is provided on the upper surface of the reading unit 201. This document support plate glass allows light emitted from the reading part to pass through, and the document is placed on the document support plate glass.

[0076] When a user wants the reading device 200 to read the image of the original document, the user places the original document on the original document support plate glass 203 with the pressure plate 202 open. Then, the pressure plate 202 is closed to prevent the original document from shifting position on the original document support plate glass 203, thereby outputting a reading command to the image forming apparatus 1, for example, by operating the operation section 300. When the reading operation begins, the reading section in the reading unit 201 reciprocates in the sub-scanning direction; that is, when the user is facing the operation section 300 of the image forming apparatus 1 from the front (front side), the reading section reciprocates in the left-right direction. The reading section emits light from the light emitting section towards the original document while simultaneously receiving light reflected from the original document through the light receiving section, and performs photoelectric conversion on the light, thereby enabling the reading section to read the image of the original document. Incidentally, in the following text, the front-back direction, left-right direction, and up-down direction are defined based on the user's position facing the operation section 300 from the front.

[0077] like Figure 2 Part (b) and Figure 3 As shown, a first opening 101 that opens upwards is formed on the upper part of the printer main assembly 100, and the first opening 101 is covered by a top cover 82. The top cover 82, serving as a stacking tray, is supported so that it can be opened and closed relative to the printer main assembly 100 about a rotation axis 82c extending in the left-right direction, and an exhaust tray 81 is formed on the upper surface as a stacking surface. When the reader 200 is open relative to the printer main assembly 100, the top cover 82 opens from the front to the rear. Incidentally, the reader 200 and the top cover 82 can also be configured to be held in the open and closed states by a retaining mechanism such as a hinge mechanism.

[0078] For example, if the recording material is jammed in the feed (transport) channel CP (through which the recording material fed by the pickup roller 65 passes) due to a paper jam, the user opens the top cover 82 together with the reading device 200. Then, the user approaches the processing cartridge 20 through the first opening 101 exposed by opening the top cover 82 and pulls the processing cartridge 20 out along the cartridge guide 102. The cartridge guide 102 and the protrusion 21a provided at the axial end of the photosensitive drum 21 of the processing cartridge 20 (see...) Figure 5 Part (a) slides and guides the processing box 20.

[0079] Then, the processing cartridge 20 is pulled out through the first opening 101, thereby creating a space where the user can place his / her hand into the feed channel CP. The user can process (clear) the jammed recording material by placing his / her hand through the first opening 101 into the interior of the printer main assembly 100 and by contacting the recording material jammed in the feed channel CP.

[0080] Furthermore, in this embodiment, such as Figure 1 Part (a) and Figure 4 As shown in part (c), the top cover 82 is provided with an openable (and closable) member 83, enabling it to be opened and closed. A second opening 82a is formed on the discharge tray 81 of the top cover 82 as an upwardly opening. The openable member 83 is configured to move between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the openable member 83 covers the supply port 32a so that the toner bag 40 cannot be installed on the developing container 32. In the open position, the supply port 32a is exposed so that the toner bag 40 can be installed on the developing container 32. The openable member 83 functions as part of the discharge tray 81 in the closed position. The openable member 83 and the second opening 82a are formed on the left (hand) side of the discharge tray 81. Furthermore, the openable member 83 is supported by the top cover 82 to be openable and closed about a rotation axis 83a extending in the front-rear direction, and is opened in the left (hand) direction by being hooked by the user's finger from a recessed portion 82b provided on the top cover 82. The openable member 83 is formed in a generally L-shape along the shape of the top cover 82.

[0081] The second opening 82a of the discharge tray 81 is opened, exposing the supply port 32a for toner supply formed on the upper part of the developing container 32, and the openable member 83 is opened, allowing the user to access the supply port 32a without opening the top cover 82. Incidentally, this embodiment employs a type (direct supply type) in which, with the developing apparatus 30 installed in the image forming apparatus 1, toner is supplied from the toner bag 40 (which serves as a toner container). Figure 1 Parts (a) and (b) of the toner are supplied to the developing unit 30. Therefore, when the remaining toner in the processing cartridge becomes low, the operation of removing the processing cartridge 20 from the printer main assembly 100 and replacing it with a new processing cartridge becomes unnecessary, thereby improving usability. Furthermore, toner can be supplied to the developing container 32 more cheaply than replacing the entire processing cartridge 20. Incidentally, the direct supply type reduces costs because even compared to the case where only the developing unit 30 is replaced, there is no need to replace various rollers and gears, etc. Incidentally, the image forming apparatus 1 and the toner bag 40 constitute the image forming system.

[0082] [Recovery of residual toner from transfer printing]

[0083] This embodiment employs a cleaner-free type, where residual toner remaining on the photosensitive drum 21 but not transferred to the recording material P is recovered in the developing apparatus 30 and reused. The residual toner is removed in the following steps. The residual toner exists as a mixture of positively charged toner and negatively charged toner without sufficient charge. After transfer, the photosensitive drum 21 is de-energized by the pre-exposure apparatus 23, causing the charging roller 22 to generate a uniform discharge, thus recharging the residual toner to a negative polarity. As the photosensitive drum 21 rotates, the residual toner, recharged to a negative polarity at the charging section, reaches the developing section. Then, the surface area of ​​the photosensitive drum 21 through the charging section is exposed by the scanner unit 11 while the residual toner is deposited on the surface, thereby writing (forming) an electrostatic latent image.

[0084] Here, the behavior of the residual toner reaching the developing section is described by dividing a portion of the photosensitive drum 21 into an exposed portion and a non-exposed portion. The residual toner deposited on the non-exposed portion of the photosensitive drum 21 is transferred to the developing roller 31 at the developing section by the potential difference between the potential of the non-exposed portion of the photosensitive drum 21 (dark area potential) and the developing voltage, and is recovered in the developing container 32. This is because, assuming the normal charged polarity of the toner is negative, the developing voltage applied to the developing roller 31 is positive relative to the potential of the non-exposed portion. Incidentally, the toner recovered in the developing container 32 is stirred and dispersed together with the toner in the developing container by the stirring member 34, and is carried on the developing roller 31, so that the toner can be reused in the developing step.

[0085] On the other hand, the residual toner deposited on the exposure portion of the photosensitive drum 21 remains on the drum surface and is not transferred from the photosensitive drum 21 to the developing roller 31 at the developing portion. This is because, assuming the normal polarity of the toner is negative, the developing voltage applied to the developing roller 31 becomes a more negative potential than the potential of the exposure portion (bright area potential). The residual toner on the drum surface, along with the additional toner transferred from the developing roller 31 to the exposure portion, is carried on the photosensitive drum 21 and moved to the transfer portion, where the toner is transferred to the recording material S.

[0086] Therefore, this embodiment employs a cleaner-free structure, in which residual toner is recovered in the developing unit 30 and reused. However, a conventional, known structure can also be used, in which a cleaning blade of the contact photosensitive drum 21 is used to recover the residual toner. In this case, the residual toner recovered by the cleaning blade is collected in a recovery container separately from the developing unit 30. However, by adopting a cleaner-free structure, the installation space for a recovery container for recovering residual toner becomes unnecessary, and further miniaturization of the image forming apparatus 1 becomes feasible. Furthermore, printing costs can be reduced by reusing the residual toner.

[0087] [Construction of developing containers and toner pouches]

[0088] Next, the construction of the developing container 32 and the toner bag 40 will be described. Figure 5 Part (a) is a perspective view showing the developing container 32 and the toner pouch 40. Figure 5 Part (b) is a front view showing the developing container 32 and the toner bag 40. Figure 6 Part (a) is Figure 5 Section (b) 6A-6A cross-section view, Figure 6 Part (b) is Figure 5 Section (b) 6B-6B cross section view.

[0089] like Figure 5 Part (a) to Figure 6As shown in part (b), the developing container 32 includes a stirring chamber 36 for accommodating a stirring member 34, and the stirring chamber 36, as a receiving portion for accommodating toner, extends longitudinally (left-right) along the entire length of the developing container 32. Furthermore, the stirring chamber 36 not only rotatably supports the developing roller 31 and the supply roller 33, but also contains the developer carried on the developing roller 31. Additionally, the developing container 32 includes a first protrusion 37 and a second protrusion 38. The first protrusion 37 protrudes upward from one end of the stirring chamber 36 in the longitudinal direction and communicates with the stirring chamber 36, while the second protrusion 38 protrudes upward from the other end of the stirring chamber 36 in the longitudinal direction. That is, the first protrusion 37 is located at one end of the developing container 32 along the rotation axis of the developing roller 31, and protrudes further toward the discharge tray 81 than a central portion protruding in a cross direction intersecting the aforementioned rotation axis direction. The second protrusion 38 is located at the other end of the developing container along the rotation axis of the developing roller 31, and protrudes further toward the discharge tray 81 than a central portion protruding in the cross direction. In this embodiment, a first protrusion 37 is formed on the left side of the developing container 32, and a second protrusion 38 is formed on the right side of the developing container 32. A mounting portion 57 is provided at the upper end (top portion) of the first protrusion 37, to which the toner bag 40 can be mounted. A supply port 32a is formed at the mounting portion 57 to allow the toner bag 40 to be supplied to the feed chamber 36. The toner bag 40 can be mounted to the mounting portion 57 with the toner bag 40 exposed to the outside of the device.

[0090] The first protrusion 37 and the second protrusion 38 extend obliquely from the stirring chamber 36 toward the front and top of the apparatus. That is, the first protrusion 37 and the second protrusion 38 protrude downward toward the discharge direction of the discharge roller pair 80 and upward. For this purpose, the supply port 32a formed at the first protrusion 37 is provided on the front side of the image forming apparatus 1, so that the supply operation of toner to the developing container 32 can be easily performed.

[0091] Specifically, in this embodiment, the reading device 200 can be opened (and closed) around the rear side of the device above the openable member 83. Therefore, when the supply port is located on the front side of the device, the space between the supply port 32 and the reading device 200 can be effectively utilized. This improves operational performance when supplying toner through the supply port 32a.

[0092] The upper part of the first protrusion 37 and the upper part of the second protrusion 38 are connected to the handle portion 39, which serves as a connecting part. Between the handle portion 39 and the feed chamber 36, a laser beam, forming a gap, passes through the space SP from the scanner unit 11 (see [link]). Figure 1Part (a)) of the laser (ray) L emitted toward the photosensitive drum 21 (see Figure 1 Part (a) can pass through the gap.

[0093] The handle portion 39 includes a protrusion 39a that a user can grip by hooking their fingers around, and the protrusion 39a is formed by protruding upward from the top surface of the handle portion 39. A first protrusion 37 is hollow inside and has a supply port 32a formed on its upper surface. The supply port 32a is configured to connect to the toner pouch 40.

[0094] A first protrusion 37, formed at the top of the supply port 32a, is located on one end of the developing container 32 in the longitudinal direction. This ensures that the laser (light) L emitted from the scanner unit 11 can pass through the space SP, and the image forming apparatus 1 can be miniaturized. Furthermore, a second protrusion 38 is located on the other side of the developing container 32 in the longitudinal direction, and a handle portion 39 is used to connect the first protrusion 37 and the second protrusion 38, thereby improving usability when removing the processing cartridge 20 from the printer main assembly 100. Incidentally, the second protrusion 38 can also be formed in a hollow shape similar to the first protrusion 37, or it can be solid.

[0095] The toner pouch 40 is configured to be mounted to and detached from the mounting portion 57 of the first protrusion 37. Furthermore, the toner pouch 40 includes a second baffle 41 disposed at the opening and capable of being opened and closed, and a plurality of protrusions 42 corresponding to a plurality of recesses 32b formed in the mounting portion 57 (three in this embodiment). When a user supplies toner to the developing container 32, the user performs alignment such that the protrusions 42 of the toner pouch 40 pass through the recesses 32b of the mounting portion 57, thereby connecting the toner pouch 40 to the mounting portion 57. Then, when the toner pouch 40 is rotated 180 degrees in this state, the second baffle 41 of the toner pouch 40 abuts against an abutment portion (not shown) of the mounting portion 57 and rotates relative to the toner pouch 40, causing the second baffle 41 to open. As a result, the toner contained in the toner pouch 40 leaks downward from the toner pouch 40, and the leaking toner enters the first protrusion 37. Incidentally, the second baffle 41 can also be located on the supply port 32a side.

[0096] The first protruding portion 37 includes an inclined surface 37a at a position opposite to the opening of the supply port 32a, and the inclined surface 37a slopes downward toward the feed chamber 36. For this purpose, the toner supplied from the supply port 32a is guided into the feed chamber 36 by the inclined surface 37a. Furthermore, the stirring member 34 includes a stirring shaft 34a extending in the longitudinal direction and a blade portion 34b extending radially outward beyond the stirring shaft 34a.

[0097] As the stirring member 34 rotates, toner supplied from the supply port 32a located upstream of the stirring member 34 in the (recording material) feed direction is fed to the developing roller 31 and the supply roller 33. The feed direction of the stirring member 34 is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the developing container 32. The supply port 32a and the first protrusion 37 are located at one end of the developing container 32 in the longitudinal direction, but the toner is distributed throughout the entire length of the developing container 32 by repeated rotation of the stirring member 34. Incidentally, in this embodiment, the stirring member 34 consists of a stirring shaft 34a and a blade portion 34b, but a spiral stirring shaft may also be used as a construction for distributing toner throughout the entire length of the developing container 32.

[0098] In this embodiment, the toner bag 40 is constructed from a deformable (flexible) bag component made of plastic, such as... Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown in part (a), but the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the toner pouch 40 can be made of, for example, Figure 8 Part (b) shows a generally conical bottle container 40B, which can be made of, for example, Figure 8 The paper container 40C shown in part (c) is constructed from paper. In either case, the toner bag can be of any material and shape. Furthermore, regarding the method of spraying toner from the toner bag, if the toner bag is toner bag 40 or paper container 40C, it is suitable for the user to squeeze the toner bag with their fingers; if the toner bag is bottle container 4B, it is suitable for the user to cause the toner to leak downwards by tapping the container or similarly while simultaneously vibrating the container. Furthermore, in order to discharge toner from bottle container 40B, a discharge mechanism can be provided in bottle container 40B. Moreover, the discharge mechanism can be configured to receive driving force from the printer main assembly 100 by engaging with the printer main assembly 100.

[0099] Furthermore, in any toner bag, the second baffle 41 may be omitted, or a sliding baffle may be used instead of the second baffle 41. Additionally, the second baffle 41 may be constructed such that it is broken by mounting the toner bag onto the supply port 32a or by rotating the toner bag in the mounted state, or the second baffle 41 may be a removable cap structure, such as a seal.

[0100] [Method for detecting residual toner]

[0101] Next, we will use Figures 9 to 11 A method for detecting the amount of toner remaining in the developing container 32 is described. In the developing apparatus 30 of this embodiment, a first toner remaining sensor 51 and a second toner remaining sensor 52 are provided, which are used to detect the state depending on the amount of toner remaining in the developing container 32.

[0102] The first toner remaining amount sensor 51 includes a light-emitting part 51a and a light-receiving part 51b, and the second toner remaining amount sensor 52 includes a light-emitting part 52a and a light-receiving part 52b. Figure 10 This is a circuit diagram illustrating an example of the circuit structure of toner remaining sensors 51 and 52. Incidentally, in the following description, the circuit structure of the first toner remaining sensor 51 is described, and the description of the circuit structure of the second toner remaining sensor 52 will be omitted.

[0103] exist Figure 10 In this invention, an LED is used as the light-emitting part 51a, and a phototransistor that is in an ON state due to light from the light-emitting part 51a is used as the light-receiving part 51b. However, the invention is not limited to this. For example, a halogen lamp or fluorescent lamp can be used as the light-emitting part 51a, and a photodiode or avalanche photodiode can be used as the light-receiving part 51b. Incidentally, a switch (not shown) is provided between the light-emitting part 51a and the power supply voltage (voltage source) Vcc, and by placing the switch in the ON state, a voltage from the power supply voltage Vcc is applied to the light-emitting part 51a, causing the light-emitting part 51a to be in the ON state. On the other hand, the light-receiving part 51b also has a switch (not shown) provided between itself and the power supply voltage (voltage source) Vcc, and by placing the switch in the ON state, the light-receiving part 51b is in the ON state by a current depending on the amount of light detected.

[0104] The power supply voltage Vcc and the current-limiting resistor R1 are connected to the light-emitting part 51a, and the light-emitting part 51a emits light through the current determined by the current-limiting resistor R1. Figure 9 As shown, light emitted from the light-emitting part 51a passes through the optical path Q1 and is received by the light-receiving part 51b. The power supply voltage Vcc is connected to the collector terminal of the light-receiving part 51b, and the sensing resistor R2 is connected to the emitting terminal. The light-receiving part 51b, acting as a phototransistor, receives the light emitted from the light-emitting part 51a and outputs a signal (current) depending on the amount of light received. This signal is converted into a voltage V1 by the sensing resistor R2 and input to the analog-to-digital (A / D) converter 95 of the controller 90 (see [link]). Figure 12Incidentally, the light receiving section 52b of the second toner remaining amount sensor 52 receives light emitted from the light emitting section 52a and passes through the light path Q2, and outputs voltage V2 according to the amount of light received, and inputs voltage V2 to the analog-to-digital converter section 95 of the controller 90.

[0105] The controller 90 (CPU 91) determines whether the light-emitting portions 51b and 52b receive light from the light-emitting portions 51a and 51b based on the input voltage level. When the toner in the developing container 32 has been stirred by the stirring member 34 for a certain period, the controller 90 (CPU 91) calculates the toner dosage in the developing container 32 based on the duration and intensity of various lights detected by the light-receiving portions 51b or 52b. In other words, the table pre-stored in the ROM 93 can output the remaining toner amount based on the light reception time and light intensity when the toner is fed by the stirring member 34, and the controller 90 predicts / calculates the remaining toner amount based on the input of the analog-to-digital converter 95 and the table.

[0106] More specifically, the optical path Q1 of the first toner remaining amount sensor 51 is set to intersect the rotation trajectory T of the stirring member 34. Furthermore, the time during which the toner stirred by the stirring member 34 blocks light from the optical path Q1 (i.e., the time during which the light receiving portion 51b does not detect light from the light emitting portion 51a) varies depending on the remaining toner amount. Additionally, the light intensity received at the light receiving portion 51b also varies depending on the remaining toner amount.

[0107] In other words, when the remaining toner is large, the light path Q1 is easily blocked by the toner, thus shortening the light receiving time of the light receiving section 51b and reducing the intensity of the received light. Conversely, when the remaining toner is small, the light receiving time of the light receiving section 51b is longer, and the intensity of the received light is stronger. Accordingly, as described below, the controller 90 can thus determine whether the remaining toner is at a low or medium level based on the light receiving time and intensity of the light receiving section 51b. For example, as... Figure 11 As shown in part (a), when the toner in the feed chamber 36 of the developing container 32 is in small quantity, the remaining toner level is determined to be low. Incidentally, in the above description, the second toner remaining sensor 52 is configured not to intersect the rotation trajectory T of the stirring member 34, but similar to the first toner remaining sensor 51 described above, the second toner remaining sensor 52 may also be configured to intersect the rotation trajectory T of the stirring member 34.

[0108] Furthermore, the optical path Q2 of the second toner remaining amount sensor 52 is configured above the rotation trajectory T so as not to intersect with the rotation trajectory T of the stirring member 34. Additionally, the light receiving portion 52b of the second toner remaining amount sensor 52 does not detect light from the light emitting portion 52a when the toner blocks the light path Q2, and detects light from the light emitting portion 52a when the toner does not block the light path Q2. Therefore, as described below, regardless of the rotation operation of the stirring member 34, the controller 90 determines whether the remaining toner level is at full capacity based on whether the light receiving portion 52b receives light. For example, as... Figure 11 As shown in part (b), the amount of toner in the feed chamber 36 of the developing container 32 is large, and the remaining toner level is determined to be at full capacity. Incidentally, in the above description, the second toner remaining sensor 52 is configured not to intersect the rotation trajectory T of the stirring member 34, but similar to the first toner remaining sensor 51 described above, the second toner remaining sensor 52 can also be configured to intersect the rotation trajectory T of the stirring member 34.

[0109] Incidentally, the methods for detecting / estimating the amount of remaining toner are not limited to... Figure 9 Instead of the optical method (type) for detecting toner remaining amount described herein, various known types of toner remaining amount detection / estimation methods can be employed. For example, two or more metal plates or conductive resin sheets extending in the longitudinal direction of the developing roller are disposed on the inner wall of the developing container 32, which serves as a frame, and the electrostatic capacitance between the two metal plates or conductive resin sheets is measured, thereby detecting / estimating the toner remaining amount. Alternatively, a weighing unit is provided, configured such that the weighing unit supports the developing unit 30 from below, and the CPU 51 subtracts the weight of the developing unit 30 when the toner is empty from the weight measured by the weighing unit, thereby calculating the toner remaining amount. Furthermore, the first toner remaining amount sensor 51 is omitted, and the controller 90 (CPU 91) can calculate the toner remaining amount based on the detection result of the second toner remaining amount sensor 52 and the luminous state of the laser.

[0110] [Control system of the image forming apparatus]

[0111] Figure 12 This is a block diagram showing the control system of the image forming apparatus 1. The controller 90, which is the control device of the image forming apparatus 1, includes a CPU 91 as a computing device, a RAM 92 serving as the operating area of ​​the CPU 91, and a ROM 93 for storing various programs. Furthermore, the controller 90 includes an I / O interface 94 as an input / output port, through which the controller 90 is connected to an external device, and an analog-to-digital converter 95 for converting analog signals into digital signals.

[0112] The first toner level sensor 51, the second toner level sensor 52, the mounting sensor 53, and the open / close sensor 54 are connected to the input side of the controller 90. The mounting sensor 53 detects whether the toner pouch 40 is mounted on the supply port 32a. For example, the mounting sensor 53 is located at the supply port 32a and is configured as a pressure-sensitive switch to output a detection signal when pressed by the protrusion 42 of the toner pouch 40. Furthermore, the open / close sensor 54 detects whether the openable member 83 is open relative to the top cover 82. The open / close sensor 54 is configured as, for example, a pressure-sensitive switch or a magnetic sensor.

[0113] Furthermore, the operation unit 300, the image forming unit 10, and the toner remaining amount panel 400, which serves as a notification device for displaying information about the remaining toner amount, are connected to the controller 90. The operation unit 300 includes a display unit 301 capable of displaying various setting screens and physical buttons, etc. The display unit 301 is, for example, composed of a liquid crystal panel. The image forming unit 10 includes a motor M for driving the photosensitive drum 21, the developing roller 31, the supply roller 33, the stirring member 34, etc. Incidentally, a configuration in which the photosensitive drum 21, the developing roller 31, the supply roller 33, and the stirring member 34 are driven by separate motors may also be adopted.

[0114] like Figure 1 Part (b) and Figure 17 As shown, the toner remaining panel 400 is located on the right side of the front surface of the printer main assembly 100 housing, that is, on the side opposite to the operation section 300 located on the left side, and displays information about the remaining toner in the developer container 32. In this embodiment, the toner remaining panel 400 is a panel component consisting of a plurality of (three in this embodiment) vertically arranged scales, and each scale corresponds to the low level, medium level, and full level mentioned above.

[0115] In other words, such as Figure 17 As shown in section (a), with only the lower scale illuminated, it indicates that the remaining toner in the developing container 32 is at a low level, which is the third state. Figure 17 As shown in section (b), with the lower and central scales lit and the upper scale off, it indicates that the remaining toner in the developing container 32 is at a moderate level, which is the second state. Figure 17 As shown in section (c), all three scales are lit, indicating that the toner remaining in the developing container 32 is at its full load level, which is the first state. Incidentally, the toner remaining panel 400 is not limited to an LCD panel, but can also be constructed from a light source such as an LED or incandescent lamp and a diffusion lens. Incidentally, in Figure 17In the example shown, the toner remaining panel 400 is described as a notification device indicating the remaining toner level, but the invention is not limited thereto. For example, Figure 17 The display of part (a) can be changed to indicate that toner supply is required. Figure 17 The display of part (b) can be changed to a display that does not require toner supply, and Figure 17 The display of part (c) can be changed to indicate that the toner supply has been adequately implemented.

[0116] [Toner Supply and Handling]

[0117] Next, the toner supply process for supplying toner from toner pouch 40 to developing container 32 will be described. For example... Figure 13 As shown, when the toner supply process begins, the controller 90 determines whether a supply operation start command has been provided (step S1). In this embodiment, the supply operation start command is as follows: Figure 15 The operation performed by the user through the operation section 30 is shown. Specifically, when a message prompting the user to perform the operation of button 1 is displayed on the display section 301, the user operates the operation section 300 and performs the pressing operation of button 1, thereby outputting a supply operation start command.

[0118] Incidentally, at this time, the toner bag 40 is installed on the supply port 32a of the developing container 32, so the openable component 83 is in an openable state. Both the operation section 300 and the supply port 32a are located on the right side of the device, so the user can easily perform the toner supply operation using the toner bag 40 while performing the operation of the operation section 300. Furthermore, when the open / close sensor 54 detects that the openable component 83 is open, the controller 90 disables and stops the image forming operation of the image forming apparatus 1. Therefore, with the openable component 83 open, the various feed rollers, photosensitive drum 21, and scanner unit 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 stop.

[0119] Incidentally, the supply operation start command is not limited to pressing button 1; it can also be output via touch operation on display section 301 or in response to the mounting sensor 53 detecting that the toner bag 40 is installed on the supply port 32a. Furthermore, a sensor is provided to detect the opening of the second baffle 41 of the toner bag 40, and the supply operation start command can be output based on the detection result of this sensor. Alternatively, the supply operation start command can also be output based on the detection of the opening operation of the openable component by the open / close sensor 54. Furthermore, when the openable component 83 is opened, a configuration can be adopted in which the voltage source applying high voltage to the processing box 20 is cut off, and only the motor M1 used to drive the stirring component 34 can be driven.

[0120] If a supply operation start command is provided (step S1: Yes), the controller 90 initializes the parameters of timers T1 and T2 (described later) to initial values ​​(e.g., zero) and starts timers T1 and T2 (step S2). Furthermore, the controller 90 drives the motor M1 (step S3), causing the stirring member 34 to rotate.

[0121] When performing toner remaining quantity detection processing, such as Figure 14 As shown, the controller 90 causes the light-emitting portions 51a and 52a of the first toner remaining sensor 51 and the second toner remaining sensor 52 to emit light (step S41). Then, the controller 90 causes the analog-to-digital converter 95 to convert the voltages V1 and V2 output by the light-emitting portions 51a and 52a of the first toner remaining sensor 51 and the second toner remaining sensor 52 into digital signals (hereinafter referred to as analog-to-digital conversion values) (step S42).

[0122] Next, the controller 90 determines whether the analog-to-digital conversion value of voltage V2 indicates light obstruction of optical path Q2 (step S43). If the value indicates light obstruction of optical path Q2 (step S43: Yes), the controller 90 causes the toner remaining panel 400 to display that the toner remaining level is at full capacity (step S44). That is, as Figure 17 As shown in section (c), all three scales of the toner remaining panel 400 are lit.

[0123] If the analog-to-digital conversion value of voltage V2 does not indicate light obstruction to the optical path Q2 (step S43: No), the controller 90 calculates the remaining toner amount information in the developing container 32 based on the analog-to-digital conversion value of voltage V1 (step S45). Then, based on the calculated remaining toner amount information, the controller 90 displays on the remaining toner amount panel 400 that the remaining toner amount is at a low or medium level (step S46). When step S44 or step S46 is completed, the remaining toner amount detection process ends. That is, the first remaining toner amount sensor 51 and the second remaining toner amount sensor 52, which are detection devices, output remaining amount information based on the amount of developer contained in the developing container 32 during the operation of the stirring member 34.

[0124] Next, as Figure 13As shown, the controller 90 determines whether the timer T2 is greater than or equal to the threshold β (step S5). The threshold β is a preset value and corresponds to the interval at which the toner remaining quantity detection process is repeatedly executed. Incidentally, α>β holds true. If the timer T2 is greater than or equal to the threshold β (step S5: Yes), the controller 90 initializes the timer T2 and restarts the timer T2 (step S6), and the process returns to step S4. That is, the toner remaining quantity detection process is repeatedly executed whenever the timer T2 becomes the threshold β (step S4). For example, if the threshold β is set to 1 second, the toner remaining quantity detection process is repeatedly executed every 1 second in steps S4, S5, and S6.

[0125] Furthermore, if timer T2 is less than threshold β (step S5: No), controller 90 determines whether timer T1 is greater than or equal to threshold α (step S7). Threshold α is a preset value and corresponds to the driving time of motor M1 and stirring member 34 in the toner supply operation. If timer T1 is less than threshold α (step S7: No), the process returns to step S5. If timer T1 is greater than or equal to threshold α (step S7: Yes), controller 90 stops driving motor M1 (step S8), thereby ending the toner supply operation. For example, if threshold α is set to 10 seconds, the time from the start of driving motor M1 in step S3 to the stop of driving motor M1 in step S8 is 10 seconds.

[0126] In the toner supply process described above, when the toner falls from the toner bag 40 into the developing container 32, as... Figure 16 As shown in part (a), the toner passes through the first protrusion 37 and enters the feed chamber 36. The supply port 32a and the first protrusion 37 are located at one end of the developing container 32 in the longitudinal direction, so the toner is supplied to the feed chamber 36 in a concentrated manner to one end side.

[0127] Here, we will consider the case where the stirring member 34 does not rotate when the toner is supplied to the feed chamber 36. When the toner falls from the toner bag 40 into the developing container 32, and the stirring member 34 is not rotating in the feed chamber 36 containing the toner, it takes time for the falling toner to diffuse over the entire area relative to the longitudinal direction of the photosensitive drum 21. When this time is prolonged, the user performing the toner supply operation needs time to confirm that the toner has been supplied to the feed chamber 36, thus reducing usability.

[0128] Therefore, in this embodiment, the stirring member 34 is driven for a predetermined time (threshold α) from the start of the toner supply process. Thus, as... Figure 16As shown in sections (b) and (c), the toner supplied from the toner pouch 40 to one end of the developing container 32 is pre-averaged along the entire longitudinal length of the feed chamber 36 of the developing container 32 by the stirring member 34. This shortens the time until the user confirms that toner supply has been implemented, thereby improving availability. Furthermore, the averaging of the toner contained in the developing container 32 improves the detection accuracy of the toner remaining information by the first toner remaining sensor 51 and the second toner remaining sensor 52.

[0129] Furthermore, during toner supply processing, the remaining toner level in the developing container 32 is detected every predetermined time interval (threshold β) by the first toner remaining amount sensor 51 and the second toner remaining amount sensor 52. For example, as Figure 17 As shown in part (a), when the toner remaining level is displayed as low on the toner remaining panel 400, the user supplies toner from the toner bag 40 to the developing container 32.

[0130] Then, the toner remaining panel 400 shows that the toner remaining level is at a medium level, such as... Figure 17 As shown in section (b), the remaining toner level is then displayed as being at full capacity, as... Figure 17 As shown in part (c). Thus, the user can reliably identify the toner supplied from the toner pouch 40 to the developing container 32, thereby improving usability.

[0131] Here, Figure 16 Sectional views (a) to (c) show Figure 6 The 16A-16A cross section. In Figure 16 Parts (a) and (b) show the arrangement of the light-emitting portion 51a located at the right end relative to the longitudinal direction of the photosensitive drum 21. The light-receiving portion 51b, the light-emitting portion 52a, and the light-receiving portion 52b are also positioned at the same / substantially the same longitudinal position on the photosensitive drum 21. Due to limitations in the sensor arrangement within the main assembly of the device, there are sensor arrangements such as... Figure 16 The cases shown in parts (a) and (b) illustrate this. Furthermore, in such cases, by rotating the stirring member 34 during toner supply, the improvement lies in increased usability as described above.

[0132] Furthermore, depending on the situation, the sensor may be positioned near or directly below the supply port 32a. In such cases, such as Figure 16As shown in section (b), the supplied toner is biased to the left, and in some cases, it takes time for the toner surface to become averaged across the entire longitudinal region of the photosensitive drum 21. To detect accurate toner supply status, it is necessary to average the toner surface across the entire longitudinal region of the photosensitive drum 21. However, even in such cases, in this embodiment, by rotating the stirring member 34 during toner supply, the toner surface can be averaged across the entire longitudinal region of the photosensitive drum 21 in a short time.

[0133] [The relationship between the amount of toner filled in the toner bag 40 and the volume of the developing container 32]

[0134] Next, the relationship between the amount of toner filled into the toner pouch 40 and the volume of the developing container 32 will be described. For example... Figure 18 As shown in part (a), the developing container 32 is capable of holding Z[g] of toner. Incidentally, in Figure 18 In sections (a) to (c), the toner dosage is expressed in grams (g), but it can also be converted to units indicating volume, such as milliliters (ml).

[0135] When the amount of toner contained in the developing container 32 is 0 [g] to X [g], the toner remaining amount panel 400 displays a low level based on the detection results of the first toner remaining amount sensor 51 and the second toner remaining amount sensor 52. X [g] corresponds to the second amount, and the toner dosage of 0 [g] to X [g] corresponds to a toner dosage less than the second amount.

[0136] When the amount of toner contained in the developing container 32 is X[g] to Y[g], the toner remaining amount panel 400 displays a moderate level based on the detection results of the first toner remaining amount sensor 51 and the second toner remaining amount sensor 52. Y[g] corresponds to the first amount, and the toner dosage of X[g] to Y[g] corresponds to a toner dosage less than the first amount.

[0137] When the amount of toner contained in the developing container 32 is Y[g] or more, the toner remaining amount panel 400 displays the full load level based on the detection results of the first toner remaining amount sensor 51 and the second toner remaining amount sensor 52. A toner dose of Y[g] or more corresponds to a toner dose of more than the first amount.

[0138] Figure 18 Part (b) is a diagram showing the toner dosage when toner is supplied to the developing container 32 via toner bag 40, where the toner filled in toner bag 40 is A[g]. Figure 18Part (c) is a diagram showing the toner dosage when toner is supplied to the developing container via toner pouch 40, in which toner B[g] (>A) is filled. Incidentally, the product series of toner pouch 40 can be either a small-capacity toner pouch filled with toner A[g] or a large-capacity toner pouch filled with toner B[g], or both. Furthermore, the product series of toner pouch 40 is not limited to two, but can also include three or more product series.

[0139] In this embodiment, the amount (A, B) of toner filled in the toner bag 40, which serves as a supply container, satisfies the following formulas (1) and (2).

[0140] Y≤A <Z-Y...(1)

[0141] Y≤B <Z-Y...(2)

[0142] like Figure 18 As shown in part (b), when the remaining toner in the developing container 32 is R[g], which is between 0[g] and X[g], when A[g] of toner is supplied to the developing container 32 through the toner bag 40, the toner contained in the developing container 32 is (R+A)[g]. According to the above formula (1), Y<[R+A] holds, therefore, the toner remaining amount panel 400 displays the full load level after the toner supply. That is, Y[g], which is the threshold of the full load level, is less than the amount of toner supplied from the toner bag 40, A[g].

[0143] In addition, such as Figure 18 As shown in part (c), when the toner remaining in the developing container 32 is R[g], when B[g] of toner is supplied to the developing container 32 through the toner bag 40, the toner contained in the developing container 32 is R+B[g]. According to the above formula (2), Y<(R+B) holds, therefore, the toner remaining amount panel 400 displays the full load level after the toner supply.

[0144] Therefore, the volume of the developing container 32 is set such that when the toner remaining panel 400 displays a medium or low level, the toner remaining panel 400 is always at a full level by performing toner supply. Incidentally, the volume of the developing container 32 does not need to always be filled by a single toner bag 40; for example, the volume of the developing container 32 can also be filled by supplying toner from multiple toner bags 40 containing small amounts of toner.

[0145] Furthermore, using the formulas (1) and (2) above, the volume of the developing container 32 is set such that when the toner remaining panel 400 displays a medium or low level, all the toner filled in the toner pouch 40 can be moved into the developing container 32. That is, the maximum amount of developer that can be contained in the developing container 32 is greater than the value obtained by adding the amount of developer contained in the toner pouch 40 (A[g] or B[g]) to Y[g] (i.e., the boundary between the full load level and the medium level). In other words, the amount of toner filled in the toner pouch 40 is less than the difference between the maximum toner dosage (Z[g]) that can be contained in the developing container 32 and the remaining toner amount (Y[g], i.e., the boundary between the medium level and the full load level).

[0146] Therefore, during the toner supply to the developing container 32 using the toner bag 40, the toner will not become full in the developing container 32, thereby reducing toner leakage from the supply port 32a during toner supply.

[0147] As described above, in this embodiment, a second opening 82a is formed on the discharge tray 81 of the top cover 82, and the top cover 82 is provided with an openable member 83, which is supported to be able to open and close relative to the top cover 82. The openable member 83 covers the second opening 82a in the closed state and exposes the supply port 32a of the developing container 32 in the open state. Therefore, the user can access the supply port 32a simply by opening the openable member 83.

[0148] This embodiment employs a direct supply type, in which the toner is supplied directly to the developing container 32 via the toner bag 40 from the supply port 32a. Therefore, the processing cartridge 20 does not need to be removed to supply toner to the developing container 32. Furthermore, the supply port 32a of the developing container 32 is formed on the upper surface of a first protrusion 37, which protrudes upward relative to the longitudinal direction from one end of the feed chamber 36 and is thus located close to the second opening 82a. This allows the user to easily perform the toner supply operation to the developing container 32 via the supply port 32a. Moreover, to supply toner to the developing container 32, components such as the developing roller 31 and the supply roller 33 do not need to be replaced, thus reducing costs.

[0149] Furthermore, the laser is formed by the space SP being surrounded by the first protrusion 37, the second protrusion 38, the handle portion 39, and the feed chamber 36, so that the developing container 32 and the scanner unit 11 can be arranged close to each other, and the image forming apparatus 1 can be miniaturized.

[0150] Furthermore, when the toner bag 40 is installed on the supply port 32a and the toner supply operation is performed, the stirring member 34 is driven, thus reducing accumulation even when the supply port 32a is located at one end of the developing container 32 in the longitudinal direction. This reduces image defects and improves the accuracy of toner remaining quantity detection.

[0151] Furthermore, the maximum amount of developer that can be contained in the developing container 32 is set to be greater than the value obtained by adding the amount of developer contained in the toner bag 40 (A[g] or B[g]) to Y[g] (i.e., the boundary between the full load level and the medium level). Therefore, during the supply of toner to the developing container 32 using the toner bag 40, the toner in the developing container 32 will not become full, thereby reducing toner leakage through the supply port 32a during toner supply. This configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 provides an embodiment of an image forming apparatus that meets the user's needs.

[0152] Incidentally, in this embodiment, during the toner supply process, the stirring member 34 is driven for a predetermined time (threshold α) based on the user's operation of button 1 on the operation section 300; however, the invention is not limited to this. For example, the driving of the stirring member 34 can be started by pressing button 1 once, and the driving of the stirring member 34 can be stopped by pressing button 1 again. Furthermore, the stirring member 34 may also be driven only during the period when button 1 is continuously pressed.

[0153] Furthermore, when the remaining toner level in the developing container 32 becomes low, a toner supply notification to remind the user to replenish the toner can be displayed on the display section 301. Additionally, when the toner runs out, a toner supply notification to remind the user to replenish the toner can also be displayed on the display section 301.

[0154] Furthermore, the remaining toner level in the developing container 32 is communicated to the user via the toner level panel 400, but the toner level panel 400 does not need to consist of three scales as in this embodiment. For example, the toner level panel 400 may consist of one, two, or more than four scales. Additionally, the toner level panel 400 may be configured to continuously display the remaining toner level via a percentage display or a metered display. Furthermore, the remaining toner level can be communicated to the user via voice (sound) using a speaker.

[0155] [Toner pouch]

[0156] Here, the construction of a toner bag 40 as a toner container for holding toner will be specifically described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The toner bag 40 can be installed in and removed from the image forming apparatus 1, and the toner bag 40 is configured to be installed on the supply port 32a of the developing container 32.

[0157] Figure 26 Includes a perspective view showing the entire toner bag 40. The toner bag 40 includes a bag 503 as a container for holding toner therein, a supply base 501 as a lid mounted on the bag, a rotatable second baffle 41, and a baffle holder 502 that can rotate with the second baffle 41 while holding the second baffle 41.

[0158] Figure 27 and Figure 28 This is an exploded perspective view showing the components constituting the toner pouch 40. The toner pouch 40 is constructed sequentially from one end in the following order: second baffle 41, second sheet 505, second seal 504, supply base 501, baffle retainer 502, and pouch 503. The second baffle 41 is configured to surround... Figure 27 and Figure 28 The rotation axis z shown rotates. Bag 503 includes a bag opening 503a as a first opening. The second baffle 41 includes a blocking portion 41f, a second baffle opening 41i, and a central hole 41j.

[0159] The toner bag 40 also includes a second sheet 505. The second sheet 505 is a 100 μm thick PET (polyethylene terephthalate) resin film and is applied to the blocking portion 41f of the second baffle 41 via double-sided tape. The film used in the second sheet 505 can preferably be formed from PET resin or PP (polypropylene) resin with a thickness of 50-300 μm.

[0160] Figure 29 A perspective view including the second baffle 41 to which the second sheet 505 is fixed. Figure 29 Part (a) is a perspective view of the second baffle 41 as seen from the inside (the side where bag 503 is located). Figure 29 Part (b) is a perspective view of the second baffle 41 as viewed from the outside (the side opposite to the side where the bag 503 is located). The second sheet 505 is fixed to the blocking part 41f such that the end 505a of the second baffle 41 in the rotational direction protrudes from the end face 41h of the blocking part 41f in the rotational direction of the second baffle 41.

[0161] Figure 30 A supply base 501 with a second seal 504 applied is shown. Figure 30 Part (a) and Figure 30Part (b) shows a perspective view of the supply base 501. Figure 30 Part (c) shows a cross-sectional view of the supply base 501. The second seal 504 is made of a deformable material such as polyurethane foam or nonwoven fabric and is secured to the supply base 501 by double-sided tape or the like. The supply base 501 includes an upstream side opening 501a, a downstream side opening 501b, and a conduit portion 501c connecting the upstream side opening 501a and the downstream side opening 501b. The upstream side opening 501a is a receiving port for receiving toner from the bag 503 via a bag opening 503a and is a communication hole for communicating with the interior of the bag 503. The downstream side opening 501b is a supply port (discharge port) for allowing toner received through the upstream side opening 501a to be supplied (discharged) to the developing container 32. The conduit portion 501c is a hollow tube (channel) configured such that toner received through the upstream side opening 501a can move to the downstream side opening 501b. Figure 30 The pipe portion 501c of the supply base 501 shown is configured to branch from a single upstream opening 501a into two downstream openings 501b. The two pipe portions 501c are arranged symmetrically with respect to the rotation axis z. The opening 503b of the bag 503 and the upstream opening 501a of the supply base 501 are located at positions intersecting the rotation axis z when viewed in the direction of rotation z. On the other hand, the downstream opening 501b of the supply base 501 is located at a position that does not intersect the rotation axis z. That is, the pipe portion 501c extends in a direction inclined relative to the rotation axis z. The toner in the bag 503 passes through the inclined pipe portion 501c, thereby making it feasible to intermittently supply toner to the developing apparatus 30 compared to the case where the toner passes through a pipe portion extending in the direction of rotation axis z, thus stabilizing the supply amount. In this embodiment, when the supply base 501 is viewed in the direction of rotation axis z, the two downstream openings 501b are arranged so as not to overlap with the upstream opening 501a of the supply base 501. Incidentally, even when a portion of the downstream opening 501b overlaps with the upstream opening 501a of the supply base 501, it may be required that only the pipe portion 501 extends in a direction inclined relative to the axis of rotation z.

[0162] The second seal 504, fixed to the supply base 501, is provided with an opening 504a corresponding to the position of the downstream opening 501b. The toner supplied from the bag 503 through the upstream opening 501a of the supply base 501 passes through the pipe portion 501c, the downstream opening 501b, and the opening 504a of the second seal 504, and moves to the developing container 32.

[0163] The second seal 504 is fixed to the supply base 501, thus preventing toner leakage at the interface between them. On the other hand, with such a configuration, the sliding surface 504b of the second seal 504 fixed to the supply base 501 can slide relative to the sliding surface 505b of the second sheet 504 fixed to the second baffle 41. Figure 29 Sliding. The second seal 504 is deformed by being pressed by the second sheet 505 in the direction of the rotation axis z, and a contact (support) pressure is generated between the sliding surface 504b of the second seal 504 and the sliding surface 505b of the second sheet 505. This suppresses toner leakage at the interface between the second seal 504 and the second sheet 505.

[0164] The second baffle 41, to which the second sheet 505 is fixed, is configured such that the second baffle 41 can rotate about the rotation axis z relative to the supply base 501 to which the second seal 504 is fixed. Details will be described below. Figure 31 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the toner pouch 40 perpendicular to the rotation axis z. The inner diameter portion 41b of the second baffle 41 and the outer diameter portion 501d of the supply base 501 are cylindrical portions coaxial with each other about the rotation axis z and are configured to slide relative to each other. Furthermore, the cylindrical portion 41c of the second baffle 41 and the inner diameter portion 501e of the supply base 501 are cylindrical portions coaxial with each other about the rotation axis z and are configured to slide relative to each other. Here, the baffle holder 502 is disposed on the side opposite to the second baffle 41 relative to the supply base 501 in the direction of the rotation axis z. Specifically, the surface 502b of the baffle holder 502 is attached to the surface 41d of the second baffle 41. Furthermore, the recessed portion 502c of the baffle holder 502 (see...) Figure 27 ) and the protruding portion 41e of the second baffle 41 (see Figure 26 The baffle retainer 502 is engaged with the second baffle 41 relative to the direction of rotation. The baffle retainer 502 is configured to rotate together with the second baffle 41 about the rotation axis z relative to the supply base 501. Rib 502a of the baffle retainer 502 ( Figure 31 The surface 501f of the contact supply base 501 restricts the movement of the supply base 501 in the direction of the rotation axis z.

[0165] In other words, the second seal 504 is deformed by being pressed by the second sheet 505, and the supply base 501 is supported between the second baffle 41 and the baffle retainer 502 to maintain its deformation. Therefore, contact pressure is generated between the sliding surface 504b of the second seal 504 and the sliding surface 505b of the second sheet 505. With the above configuration, leakage of toner contained in the bag 503 of the toner bag is suppressed in the standalone state of the toner bag 40.

[0166] Figure 32 The connection between the supply base 501 and the bag 503 is shown. The opening 503a of the bag 503 is connected to the outer ring 501g of the upstream opening 501a of the supply base 501. The upstream opening 501a of the supply base 501 and the opening 503a of the bag 503 are connected to each other by means of thermal welding or adhesive. The toner in the bag 503 moves toward the supply base 501 through the opening 503a of the bag 503 and the upstream opening 501a of the supply base 501. The toner passes through the conduit portion 501c of the supply base 501, the downstream opening 501b, etc., and moves to the developing container 32.

[0167] The material of bag 503 can preferably be a sheet of PE (polyethylene) resin, PP resin, or PET resin, a composite material of these materials, nonwoven fabric, paper, or a composite material containing these resins. When bag 503 is made of a material that can be deformed by the user, the user can press or squeeze bag 503 with their fingers, allowing the toner inside bag 503 to be easily supplied to the outside of toner bag 40. Incidentally, as mentioned above, when toner bag 40 is a bottle container 40B, it is suitable for the user to shake the container while gently tapping it, causing the toner to fall.

[0168] As described above, the second baffle 41 and the baffle holder 502 are fixed to each other, and the supply base 501 and the bag 503 are also fixed to each other. On the other hand, the second baffle 41 is configured to be rotatable relative to the supply base 501 about the rotation axis z. In the following, the blocking state and the open state of the second baffle 41 (second sheet 505) on the downstream opening 501b of the supply base 501 (opening 504a of the second seal 504) will be described.

[0169] Figure 33 Part (a) is a perspective view of the toner bag 40 when the second baffle 41 is in the closed position, wherein the second baffle 41 obstructs the downstream side opening 501b, which serves as the supply port of the toner bag 40. Figure 33 Part (b) is a perspective view of the toner bag 40 when the second baffle 41 is in the closed position, wherein the second baffle 41 retracts from the closed position to open the downstream side opening 501b. Figure 33Part (b) shows the second baffle 41, together with the baffle holder 502, rotated approximately 60 degrees about the rotation axis z in the direction of arrow z1 from the open position. This state exposes the downstream opening 501b of the supply base 501 to the outside of the toner bag 40, and the toner contained in the bag 503 can be supplied. Figure 33 Starting from this state in part (b), by rotating the second baffle 41 and the baffle holder 502 about the rotation axis z in the direction of arrow z2, the toner bag 40 can return to the state where the downstream opening 501b of the toner bag 40 is blocked by the baffle 41. Figure 33 Part (a)). After the toner bag 40 is installed on the developing container 32, the user rotates the body portion 502d of the baffle holder 502 about the rotation axis z in the direction of arrow z1, thereby rotating the second baffle 41. This creates a configuration in which the downstream side opening 501b of the supply base 501 is exposed and the toner in the bag 503 can be supplied to the developing container 32.

[0170] [Developing container]

[0171] The construction of the developing container 32, which serves as the main component receiving portion (toner receiving portion), will be described using the accompanying drawings. This main component receiving portion is the object from which toner is supplied from the toner bag 40. Figure 34 A perspective view of the developing container 32, including the supply port 32a. The supply port 32a is a receiving port for receiving toner supply from the toner bag 40. Figure 35 This is an exploded perspective view showing the supply port 32a of the developing container 32 and its surrounding portion. On the supply port 32a, the first seal 506, the first baffle 507, the baffle cover 508, and the first seal 509 are arranged to be stacked in this order. Figure 34 Part (a) shows the state in which the supply port 32a is blocked by the first baffle 507. Figure 34 Part (b) shows the state where the supply port 32a is open.

[0172] Incidentally, such as Figure 34 and Figure 35 As shown, the developing container 32 is provided with a shaft portion 322, which is coaxially arranged with the rotation axis z and extends in the direction of the rotation axis z. The shaft portion 322 includes a cylindrical portion 32d and a bidirectional shaft portion 32e disposed further to the top (free) end side than the cylindrical portion 32d. The first baffle 507 includes a surface 507e as a generally fan-shaped blocking portion, a first through hole 507a, and a central hole 507e. The central hole 507e engages with the cylindrical portion 32d of the shaft portion 322, thereby enabling the first baffle 507 to rotate about the axis (rotation axis z) of the shaft portion 322.

[0173] The bidirectional shaft portion 32e of the shaft portion 322 passes through the central hole 506b of the first seal 506, the central hole 507b of the first baffle 507, and the central hole 508e of the baffle cover 508, and extends to the toner bag 40 side. The function of the bidirectional shaft portion 32e of the shaft portion 322 will be described below.

[0174] The first seal 506 is made of a material such as deformable polyurethane foam or nonwoven fabric and is fixed to the developing container 32 by double-sided tape or adhesive. The first seal 506 has a through hole 506a at a position corresponding to the supply port 32a of the developing container 32. The developing container 32 has a discharge port 32c separate from the supply port 32a, and the first seal 506 has a through hole 506c at a position corresponding to the discharge port 32c of the developing container 32.

[0175] A first baffle 507 is provided on the first seal 506. In addition, a baffle cover 508 is provided on the first baffle 507. Figure 37 A cross-sectional view perpendicular to the axis of rotation z is shown of the peripheral portion of the supply port 32a of the developing container 32.

[0176] The baffle cover 508 is fixed to the developing container 32. The recessed portion 508b of the baffle cover 508 intersects with the protruding portion 32g of the developing container 32. Figure 35 In the engaged state, the surface 508a of the baffle cover 508 is bonded to the surface 32f of the developing container 32. That is, the baffle cover 508 is positioned relative to the developing container 32 with a predetermined rotational phase. The first baffle 507 is disposed between the first seal 506 provided on the developing container 32 and the baffle cover 508, and is supported by the developing container 32 so that it can rotate about the rotation axis z.

[0177] like Figure 37 As shown, the outer ring 507c of the first baffle 507 and the inner diameter portion 508c of the baffle cover 508 are cylindrical portions coaxially arranged with each other along the axis of the shaft portion 322 (rotation axis z). The first baffle 507 is configured such that, relative to the baffle cover 508, the outer ring 507c of the first baffle 507 can rotate relative to the baffle cover 508 while the inner diameter portion 508c of the baffle cover 508 is slid. On the other hand, with such a configuration, the surface 507d of the first baffle 507 contacts the surface 508d of the baffle cover 508 and restricts the movement of the first baffle 507 in the direction of the rotation axis z. The first baffle 507 is supported between the baffle cover 508 and the developing container 32, such that the first seal 506 is pressed by the first baffle 507 in the direction of the rotation axis z, thereby maintaining a compressed state. Thus, in the standalone state of the developing container 32, leakage of toner from the developing container 32 is suppressed.

[0178] Figure 38Parts (a) and (b) are perspective views of the baffle cover 508. Figure 38 Parts (c) and (d) show a baffle cover 508 with a first seal 509 installed. The first seal 509 is made of a material such as deformable polyurethane foam or nonwoven fabric. Figure 38 As shown in part (b), the first seal 509 is applied to the baffle cover 508 on surfaces 508f and 508g using double-sided tape or the like. Surface 508f of the baffle cover 508 is the surface opposite to the first baffle 507 and perpendicular to the rotation axis z. Surface 508g of the baffle cover 508 is the surface whose direction relative to the rotation axis z is opposite to that of surface 508f.

[0179] The first baffle 507 is rotatably supported about the rotation axis z. The first baffle 507 in Figure 34 Part (a) shows the occlusion position (first position) and Figure 34 The container rotates between the open position (second position) shown in part (b). The blocked position is the position where surface 507e overlaps with supply port 32a when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis z, and is the position where the developing container 32 cannot receive toner supply from toner pouch 34. The open position (second position) is the position where the first through hole 507a overlaps with supply port 32a, and is the position where the developing container 32 can receive toner supply from toner pouch 40.

[0180] [The connection between the toner pouch and the developing container, and the opening / closing operation of the baffle]

[0181] Figure 39 Part (a) shows the toner pouch 40 installed. Figure 34 Part (a) shows the developing container 32, in which the supply port 32a is blocked by the first baffle 507.

[0182] When the toner pouch 40 is mounted on the developing container 32, the bidirectional shaft portion 32e of the developing container 32 is inserted into the bidirectional hole 501h of the supply base 501, such that the bidirectional shaft portion 32e engages with the bidirectional hole 501h. In other words, the bidirectional hole 501h of the toner pouch 40 is configured to engage with the bidirectional shaft portion 32e of the developing container 32. Furthermore, the generally fan-shaped surface 507e of the first baffle 507 ( Figure 34 Part (a)) and the generally fan-shaped surface 41f of the second baffle 41 Figure 33 Part (a)) contact.

[0183] exist Figure 39In the state shown in part (a), the case where the user grips the main body part 502d and rotates the baffle holder 502 in the direction of arrow z1 will be described. As described above, the baffle holder 502 and the second baffle 41 are fixed to each other, therefore, in conjunction with the rotation of the baffle holder 502, the second baffle 41 also rotates in the direction of arrow z1. At this time, the surface 41g of the second baffle 41 ( Figure 33 )Contact rib 507f( Figure 34 The first baffle 507 is pressed in the direction of arrow z1, causing the first baffle 507 to rotate in the direction of arrow z1. The surface 41g of the second baffle 41 and the surface of the rib 507f of the first baffle 507 extend in the direction of the rotation axis z.

[0184] The surface 41g of the second baffle 41, which is the joining part, engages with the rib 507f of the first baffle 507, which is the joined part, such that the first baffle 507 is configured to rotate together with the second baffle 41.

[0185] Figure 33 Part (a) and Figure 34 Part (b) shows the state of the toner pouch 40 and the developing container 32, wherein the second baffle 41 and the first baffle 507 are respectively from Figure 33 Part (b) and Figure 34 The state shown in part (a) has rotated 60° around the axis of rotation z in the direction of arrow z1. Figure 33 Part (b) of the toner bag 40 is in a state where the second predetermined opening 41i of the second baffle 41 overlaps with the downstream opening 501b of the supply base 501 and the downstream opening 501b is exposed, such that the developing container 32 is in a state where the developing container 32 can receive toner from the toner bag 40.

[0186] The shaft portion 322 of the developing container 32 is fixed so as not to rotate about the axis of rotation z. Therefore, the supply base 501 and the bag 503, which engage with the bidirectional shaft portion 32e of the shaft portion 322 in the bidirectional hole 501h, do not rotate. That is, when the user rotates the body portion 502d of the baffle holder 502, only the second baffle 41 and the first baffle 507 rotate, while the supply base 504 and the bag 503 do not rotate. Figure 7As shown, in this configuration, where the user deforms the bag 503 and supplies the toner from the bag 503 to the developing apparatus 32, the bag 503 is designed to be easily deformable. Therefore, the configuration where the bag 503 is fixed to the developing apparatus 32 and the body portion 502d of the baffle holder 502 rotates is more operationally efficient than a configuration where the user can hold and rotate the bag 503. Furthermore, there are cases where the bag 503 preferably does not rotate and always faces a predetermined direction. For example, there are cases where instructions for toner supply are displayed on the bag 503 or an instruction label is affixed to the bag 503. In this case, it is meaningful to enhance the user's visibility of the bag 503 by employing a configuration where the bag 503 does not rotate.

[0187] Next, the operation of removing the toner bag 40 mounted on the developing container 32 from the developing unit 32 will be described. Consideration will be given to... Figure 39 The operation begins in the state shown in part (b), causing the body portion 502d of the baffle holder 502 to rotate about the rotation axis z in the direction of arrow z2. The baffle holder 502 and the second baffle 41 are fixed to each other; therefore, in conjunction with the baffle holder 501, the second baffle 41 also rotates in the direction of arrow z2. At this time, the surface 41h of the second baffle 41 ( Figure 33 Press the surface 507g set on the first baffle 507. Figure 34 This causes the first baffle 507 to rotate. Furthermore, the first baffle 507 is rotatably supported about the rotation axis z, therefore, in conjunction with the rotation operation of the baffle holder 501, the first baffle 507 also rotates about the rotation axis z in the direction of arrow z2. The baffle holder 502 rotates 60° in the direction of arrow z2, allowing the installation state to return to the state where the supply port 32a is blocked, as shown. Figure 33 Part (a) Figure 34 Part (a) and Figure 39 As shown in part (a). Incidentally, similarly, with the first baffle 507 and the second baffle 41 closed, the toner bag 40 does not rotate.

[0188] Next, a method for suppressing toner leakage during the opening / closing of the first baffle 507 and the second baffle 41 will be described. Figure 40 This includes a schematic cross-sectional view of the interface between the toner bag 40 and the developing container 32 when the toner bag 40 is mounted on the developing container 32. Figure 40 In the text, bag 503 is omitted. Figure 40 Part (a) shows the state before the toner bag 40 is installed. Figure 40 Part (b) shows from Figure 40Part (a) shows the state at the beginning of the process of mounting the toner bag 40 on the developing container 32, before the first baffle 507 and the second baffle 41 are rotated. In this state, the supply port 32a of the developing apparatus 32 and the downstream opening 501b of the supply base 501 are blocked, preventing the toner contained in the bag 503 from being discharged outside the toner bag 40. Furthermore, Figure 40 Part (c) illustrates a state in which from Figure 40 Starting from the state shown in part (b), the second baffle 41 rotates about the rotation axis z by an angle θ1 (0 < θ1) in the direction of arrow z1. Figure 40 In the figure, the rotation of baffle 41 about the rotation axis z in the direction of arrow z1 is shown as the left (hand) direction (arrow z1 direction). Furthermore, Figure 40 Part (d) illustrates a state in which from Figure 40 Starting from the state shown in part (b), the second baffle 41 rotates about the rotation axis z in the direction of arrow z1 by an angle θ2 (θ1 < θ2). Furthermore, Figure 40 Part (e) is in such a state that, from Figure 40 Starting from the state shown in part (b), the second baffle 41 is rotated 60° about the rotation axis z in the direction of arrow z1, and the state of the supply port 32a and the downstream side opening 501b of the supply base 501 being exposed is shown. Figure 40 Part (b) is in a state where the toner pouch 40 is mounted on the developing container 32, and the end 505a of the first sheet 505 relative to the rotational direction of the second baffle 41 is configured to contact the surface 507h of the first baffle 507. Furthermore, the rib 507f of the first baffle 507 and the surface 41g of the second baffle 41 are configured to have a gap δ1 in the rotational direction of the second baffle 41. Furthermore, the surface 507g of the first baffle 507 and the surface 41h of the second baffle 41 are configured to have a gap δ2 in the rotational direction of the second baffle 41. Both the gap δ1 and the gap δ2 between the first baffle 507 and the second baffle 41 are clearances that allow the user to mount the toner pouch 40 onto the developing container 32. By providing gaps δ1 and δ2, the mounting performance of the toner pouch 40 relative to the developing container 32 can be improved. When gap δ1 narrows, gap δ2 widens; when gap δ1 widens, gap δ2 narrows.

[0189] After the toner bag 40 is installed on the developing container 32, the second baffle 41 rotates about the rotation axis z in the direction of arrow z1. Figure 40 Part (c) is in such a state that, in Figure 40The gap δ1 present in part (b) disappears, and the rib 507f of the first baffle 507 contacts the surface 41g of the second baffle 41. The rib 507f of the first baffle 507 is pressed by the surface 41g of the second baffle 41, causing the first baffle 507 and the second baffle 41 to rotate together about the rotation axis z in the direction of arrow z1. Incidentally, Figure 40 The gap δ2 in part (c) state becomes smaller than Figure 40 In part (b) state, the gap δ2 is wider. Furthermore, when not removed (separated) from the surface 507h of the first baffle 507, the end 505a of the second sheet 505 is configured to contact the surface 507h. When the second baffle 41 is removed from... Figure 40 When part (c) rotates along the axis z in the direction of arrow z1, it forms the following state. For example... Figure 40 As shown in part (d), the gap δ2 formed by the surface 507g of the first baffle 507 and the surface 41h of the second baffle 41 is located below the downstream opening 501b of the supply base 501. At this time, the end 505a of the second sheet 505 contacts the surface 507h of the first baffle 507, thus forming a structure that inhibits the toner from entering the gap δ2.

[0190] When the second baffle 41 from Figure 40 When part (d) begins to rotate further around the rotation axis z in the direction of arrow z1, it forms Figure 40 The state of part (e). Figure 40 Part (e) is in a state where the supply port 32a and the downstream opening 501b are exposed from the first baffle 507 and the second baffle 41, respectively. The toner contained in the bag 503 (not shown) is supplied from the bag 503 to the developing container 32 through the opening 503a of the bag 503, the upstream opening 501a of the supply base 501, the conduit portion 501c, the downstream opening 501b, and the opening 504a of the second seal 504. The discharged toner is received in the developing container 32 through the first through-hole 507a of the first baffle 507, the hole 506a of the first seal 506, and the supply port 32a of the developing container 32. Figure 40 In part (e), the second seal 504 is configured to prevent toner from entering the interface with the first baffle 507. Furthermore, the first seal 506 is also configured to prevent toner from entering the interface with the first baffle 507.

[0191] Next, the method of removing the toner bag 40 from the developing container 32 after the toner replenishment (supply) from the toner bag 40 to the developing container 32 is described using the accompanying drawings. Figure 40 Part (f) illustrates a state in which from Figure 40Starting from the state shown in part (e), the second baffle 41 rotates about the rotation axis z by an angle θ3 (0 < θ3) in the direction of arrow z2. This state is such that, in... Figure 40 The gap δ2 present in part (e) disappears, and the surface 507g of the first baffle 507 contacts the surface 41h of the second baffle 41. Figure 40 The gap δ1 in part (f) becomes larger than Figure 40 The gap δ1 in part (e) is wider.

[0192] The surface 507g of the first baffle 507 receives pressing pressure from the surface 41h of the second baffle 41, causing the first baffle 507 and the second baffle 41 to rotate together about the rotation axis z in the direction of arrow z2. The surface 507g of the first baffle 507 serves as the engaged portion, and the surface 41h of the second baffle 41 serves as the engaged portion for engaging with the surface 507g. When the first baffle 507 and the second baffle 41... Figure 40 When the state of part (f) begins to rotate in the direction of arrow z2, as Figure 40 As shown in part (g), the first baffle 507 and the second baffle 41 respectively block the supply port 32a of the developing container 32 and the downstream opening 501b of the supply base 501. Figure 40 In the state shown in part (e), when toner is supplied from toner pouch 40 to developing container 32, the first through-hole 507a of the first baffle 507 forms part of the toner channel, and in some cases, toner deposits and remains on the inner wall of the first through-hole 507a. Therefore, the first seal 509 is configured to inhibit toner from entering the first through-hole 507a and the interface between the first seal 509 and the first baffle 507.

[0193] Incidentally, in this state, the toner bag 40 can be detached from the developing container 32, allowing the toner bag 40 and the developing container 32 to return to their original positions. Figure 40 The state shown in part (a).

[0194] [The connection between the toner pouch 40 and the developing container 32]

[0195] As described above, the toner pouch 40 and the developing container 32 are configured to be connected to each other through a connection between the bidirectional hole 501h of the supply base 501 of the toner pouch 40 and the bidirectional (shaped) shaft portion 32e of the shaft portion 322 provided on the developing container 32. When the bidirectional hole 501h of the supply base 501 and the shaft portion 322 provided on the developing container 32 are engaged with each other, a configuration is formed in which the position of the rotation axis z of the toner pouch 40 relative to the developing container 32 (image forming apparatus 1) is determined.

[0196] The following description will use accompanying figures to illustrate the details. Figure 41 The diagram includes a perspective view showing the bidirectional shaft portion 32e of the developing container 32 and its peripheral portion. The bidirectional shaft portion 32e includes flat surfaces 32e1 and 32e2 and outer peripheral surfaces 32e3 and 32e4. The flat surfaces 32e1 and 32e2 are surfaces extending in the direction of the rotation axis z, and are parallel to and opposite to each other. The outer peripheral surfaces 32e3 and 32e4 are surfaces with the same outer diameter, forming part of a cylindrical surface coaxially arranged along the rotation axis z, and are opposite to each other. Figure 41 Part (a) is a perspective view in the direction in which the flat surface 32e1 of the bidirectional shaft 32e is in front. Figure 41 Part (b) is a perspective view in the direction in which the cylindrical surface 32e3 of the bidirectional shaft 32e is in the front.

[0197] Figure 30 The bidirectional hole 501h of the supply base 501 shown includes flat surfaces 501h1 and 501h2, and inner circumferential surfaces 501h3 and 501h4. Flat surfaces 501h1 and 501h2 are surfaces extending along the rotation axis z, and are parallel and opposite to each other. Inner circumferential surfaces 501h3 and 501h4, having the same inner diameter, form part of a cylindrical surface coaxially arranged along the rotation axis z, and are opposite to each other.

[0198] When the toner pouch 40 is mounted on the developing container 32, the flat surfaces 32e1 and 32e2 of the bidirectional shaft portion 32 are respectively opposite to the flat surfaces 501h1 and 501h2 of the bidirectional hole 501 of the supply base 501. On the other hand, the outer peripheral surfaces 32e3 and 32e4 of the bidirectional shaft portion 32e are respectively opposite to... Figure 30 The inner circumferential surfaces 501h3 and 501h4 of the bidirectional hole 501h of the supply base 501 shown are opposite each other.

[0199] The difference between the distance between flat surfaces 501h1 and 502h2 and the distance between flat surfaces 32e1 and 31e2 is less than the difference between the inner diameter of the inner circumferential surface 501h3 (501h4) and the outer diameter of the outer circumferential surface 32e3 (32e4). Therefore, when the toner bag 40 is mounted on the developing container 32, the toner bag 40 has a structure in which, along with the... Figure 41 Compared to the direction of arrow α shown in part (a), the toner bag 40 is tilted along... Figure 41 Part (b) shows that the arrow β is more tilted in the direction of the arrow.

[0200] Incidentally, the connection between the toner pouch 40 and the developing container 32 is not limited to the construction of this embodiment, and may only require the following construction: either the joined portion of the toner pouch 40 or the joined portion of the developing container 32 is a shaft portion and the other is a hole. When the shaft portion and the hole are viewed in the direction of the rotation axis z, if it is assumed that the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis z is a first direction and the direction perpendicular to the first direction is a second direction, then only a construction in which the gap between the shaft portion and the hole in the first direction is greater than the gap between the shaft portion and the hole in the second direction is required.

[0201] like Figure 33 As shown in part (b), the two downstream openings 501b (openings 504a of the second seal 504) of the supply base 501 of the toner bag 40 are respectively located opposite to the flat surface 501h1 and plane 501h2 of the bidirectional hole 501 of the supply base 501. Furthermore, as... Figure 34 As shown in part (b), the two supply ports 32a of the developing container 32 are located opposite to the flat surface 32e1 and plane 32e2 of the bidirectional shaft portion 32e of the developing container 32, respectively. The two downstream side openings 501b of the supply base 501 of the toner bag 40 and the two supply ports 32a of the developing container 32 are configured as described above.

[0202] To suppress toner contamination in the connection between the toner pouch 40 and the developing container 32, the following is preferred. When the first baffle 507 and the second baffle 41 are positioned such that the supply port 32a and the downstream opening 504 are respectively opened by these baffles, the deformation of the second seal 504 with opening 504a relative to the thickness direction (direction of the rotation axis z) is kept within a predetermined range. Thus, preferably, the contact pressure between the sliding surface 504b of the second seal 504 of the supply base 501 and the first baffle 507 is stable. If the two openings 504a of the second seal 504 are located in the direction where the tilt angle increases when the toner pouch 40 is installed in the developing container 32, the following problem occurs: When the toner pouch 40 is tilted, although the deformation of the second seal 504 near one opening 504a increases, the deformation of the second seal 504 near the other opening 504a decreases. As a result, toner contamination is more likely to occur near the other opening 504a.

[0203] Therefore, in this embodiment, the two openings 504a (downstream opening 501b of the supply base 501) are arranged in the direction of arrow β, wherein the tilting of the toner bag 40 is suppressed, as... Figure 41 As shown in part (b). This can suppress toner contamination between the toner bag 40 and the developing container 32.

[0204] Incidentally, although two downstream openings 501b are provided in this embodiment for the supply base 501, the invention is not limited thereto. The number of downstream openings 501b can be one, such as... Figure 42 As shown, there may be three or more. Incidentally, in this case, the number of supply ports 32a, etc., of the developing container 32 corresponds to the form on the toner bag side.

[0205] [Variation Example]

[0206] Figure 43 Includes a cross-sectional view showing the toner bag 40 and the developer container 32 connected to each other and in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation z. Figure 43 Parts (a) and (b) are cross-sectional views of Example 1 and the variant example, respectively. The variant example differs from Example 1 in the position of the joining region g in the direction of the rotation axis z, where the bidirectional shaft portion 32e of the developing container 32 and the bidirectional hole 501h of the toner bag 40 are joined together. In the variant example, as... Figure 43 As shown in part (b), the second seal 504 and the first baffle 507 are in contact with each other in the engagement region g, relative to the direction of the rotation axis z.

[0207] After the toner bag 40 is installed on the developing container 32, even when the toner bag 40 is relative to the developing container 32... Figure 41 When the arrows α and β are tilted, the effect of the second seal 504 on the amount of deformation relative to the rotation axis z can also be reduced.

[0208] (Discharge port of developing container 32)

[0209] Figure 44 Includes a schematic cross-sectional view showing the toner bag 40 mounted on the developing container 32. Figure 44 Part (a) shows the state of the developing container 32 and the toner bag 40 before they are connected to each other. Figure 44 Part (b) shows the state of the toner bag 40 before it is mounted on the developing container 32 and before the second baffle 41 and the first baffle 507 of the toner bag 40 are rotated. At this time, the first baffle 507 is in the second position. In this state, the supply port 32a and the downstream opening 501b of the supply base 501 are blocked by the first baffle 507 and the second baffle 41, respectively, preventing the toner contained in the bag 503 from being supplied to the developing container 32.

[0210] Figure 44 Part (c) shows from Figure 44Part (b) shows the state where the second baffle 41 is rotated 60° around the rotation axis z in the direction of arrow z1, and shows the state where the supply port 32a and the downstream side opening 501b are open. The position of the first baffle 507 is the first position. The toner contained in the bag 503 (not shown) is supplied from the toner bag 40 to the developing container 32 through the opening 503a of the bag 503, the upstream side opening 501a of the supply base 501, the pipe portion 501c, the downstream side opening 501b, and the opening 504a of the second seal 504. The toner supplied from the toner bag 40 is supplied to the developing container 32 through the first through hole 507a of the first baffle 507, the supply port 506a of the first seal 506, and the supply port 32a.

[0211] The developing container 32 includes a supply port 32a and a discharge port 32c. With the toner bag 40 mounted on the developing container 32, when these openings are viewed in the direction of the rotation axis z, the supply port 32a is positioned to overlap with the downstream opening 501b of the toner bag 40, but the discharge port 32c is positioned not to overlap with the downstream opening 501b.

[0212] Here, we will consider the scenario where toner is supplied from toner bag 40 to developing container 32 and the developing container 32 is full of toner. Figure 44 Part (c) is in a state where toner is supplied from toner pouch 40 to developing container 32, and the toner in developing container 32 and toner in toner pouch 40 are in communication with each other. The supply port 32a of developing container 32 is formed by a cylindrical rib 32h extending toward the interior of developing container 32. Incidentally, the rib 32h may simply be required to be a wall constituting supply port 33a and need not be cylindrical. The toner supplied from toner pouch 40 moves from supply port 32a into developing container 32, and as... Figure 44 As shown in part (c), the toner is deposited in a state where it widens downwards from the rib 32h of the developing container 32. In this state, the toner continues to accumulate even when the bag 503 of the toner bag 40 deforms, thus generating toner powder pressure. As a result, not all the toner in the toner bag 40 can be supplied to the developing container 32, leaving toner residue in the bag 503.

[0213] Figure 44 Part (d) illustrates a state in which from Figure 44 Starting from the state shown in part (c), the second baffle 41 rotates about the rotation axis z in the direction of arrow z2 by an angle θ4 (0 < θ4 < 60°). With the toner in bag 503 piled up in a state connected to the toner in developing container 32, the following state is formed when the first baffle 507 rotates. As shown... Figure 44As shown in part (c), the first through-hole 507a of the first baffle 507 and the toner present therein (i.e., the toner present in region TA in the figure) are rubbed tangentially to each other, and the toner moves together with the first baffle 507. Figure 44 In part (d), below the first through-hole 507a of the developing side baffle 507, relative to the vertical direction, an outlet 506c of the first seal 506 and an outlet 32c of the developing container 32 are provided. At this time, the position of the first baffle 507 is the third position. As the first baffle 507 moves, toner present in the first through-hole 507a and tangentially rubbed by the first shaft 507 is configured to fall into the developing container 32 through the outlet 506c of the first seal 506 and the outlet 32c of the developing container 32. Furthermore, the lower end of the wall constituting the outlet 32c of the developing container 32 is configured to be located above the lower end of the rib 32h relative to the vertical direction. This is because it prevents the toner from depositing in a state that widens downwards below the rib 32h, and the toner falls into the space within the developing container 32.

[0214] Figure 44 Part (e) shows from Figure 44 The state shown in part (d) indicates that the second baffle 41 has rotated 60° around the rotation axis z in the direction of arrow z2. At this time, the position of the first baffle 507 is... Figure 44 The second position is the same as part (b). This state is when the supply port 32a of the developing container 32 and the downstream side opening 501b of the supply base 501 are blocked. That is, the third position of the first baffle 507 is between the first position and the second position.

[0215] As described above, even when the supply port for supplying toner from the toner bag 40 to the developing container 32 is filled with toner, repeatedly performing the opening / closing operation of the first baffle 507 can suppress toner contamination and toner leakage.

[0216] (Bag reinforcement)

[0217] Figure 45 Another embodiment of the connection between the bag 503 of the toner bag 40 and the supply base 501 is shown.

[0218] The supply base 501 is provided with reinforcing ribs 501k, which clamp and reinforce the bag 503 therebetween. The supply base 501 is mounted to the end of the bag 503 relative to its longitudinal direction on the side where the bag opening 503a is located, such that the upstream opening 501a and the bag opening 503a communicate with each other. The supply base 501 is provided with two reinforcing ribs 501k as support portions for clamping and supporting one end of the bag 503 in a direction perpendicular to its longitudinal direction. In a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the bag 503, the two reinforcing ribs 501k, serving as a first support portion and a second support portion, are provided on opposite sides, clamping the upstream opening 501a therebetween. The reinforcing ribs 501k may preferably extend in the longitudinal direction of the bag 503 to the longitudinal center of the bag 503. The bag 503 is made of a resin sheet such as PE or a composite material of these materials, and has a form that allows the user to easily deform the bag 503. On the other hand, it is constructed such that the bag 503 is reinforced (supported) by reinforcing ribs 501k to reliably connect the bag 503 and the supply base 501 to each other, and to enable the bag to stand upright.

[0219] Incidentally, the structure of the bag 503 can be supported by using reinforcing ribs 501k by attaching them to the bag 503 but not clamping it.

[0220] <First Variation Example>

[0221] exist Figure 19 In part (a), the first variant example is shown. For example... Figure 19 As shown in part (a), in the image forming apparatus 1B, the supply port 132a of the developing container is located on the right side of the apparatus, and an openable ( / closeable) member 83B is also located on the right side of the apparatus. The openable member 83B exposes the supply port 132a in the open state and covers the supply port 132a in the closed state. Therefore, by locating the supply port 132a on the right side of the apparatus, the supply port 132a is close to the toner remaining amount panel 400. For this reason, when toner is supplied to the developing container using the toner bag 40, the toner remaining amount panel 400 can be easily checked.

[0222] <Second Variation Example>

[0223] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to Figure 19 The embodiment shown in part (a), such as Figure 19 As shown in part (b), the present invention can also be applied to an image forming apparatus 1C, which is configured such that the openable member 83C opens to the front.

[0224] <Third Variation Example>

[0225] In addition, such as Figure 19 As shown in part (c), the present invention can also be applied to an image forming apparatus 1D, which is configured such that the openable member 83D opens to the rear.

[0226] <Fourth Variation Example>

[0227] In addition, such as Figure 20 As shown in part (a), the operation section 300E can be located on the reading device 200 instead of on the main printer assembly 100, and can also be located on the right side of the device together with the toner level panel 400. Incidentally, both the operation section 300E and the toner level panel 400 can, of course, be located on the right side.

[0228] <Fifth Variation Example>

[0229] In addition, such as Figure 20 As shown in part (b), the toner remaining amount panel 400F can be located on the left side, and the operation part 300F can be located on the right side.

[0230] <Second Embodiment>

[0231] The second embodiment of the invention will now be described, in which the construction of the supply port 32a in the first embodiment is modified. Therefore, components similar to those in the first embodiment will be omitted from the figures or described by adding the same reference numerals in the drawings.

[0232] like Figure 21 As shown in part (a), the image forming apparatus 1G is configured such that the openable member 83G is supported by the top cover 82 and can be opened and closed relative to the top cover 82, and that the openable member 83G opens toward the rear of the apparatus. By opening the openable member 83G, the supply port 232a of the developing container 32G is exposed. Furthermore, the supply port 232a opens downstream and upward in the discharge direction of the discharge roller pair 80, thereby being inclined relative to the vertical direction; in other words, the supply port 232a opens forward and upward at an angle.

[0233] This forms the supply port 232a, and with the toner bag 40 installed on the supply port 232a, the toner bag 40 is in a forward-tilted position. Therefore, the space between the supply port 232a and the reading device 200 can be effectively utilized, allowing a large-capacity toner bag to be installed on the supply port 232a.

[0234] Incidentally, such as Figure 22 As shown in parts (a) and (b), the openable component 83H and the reading device 200 can be configured to... Figure 21The shallower angles in parts (a) and (b) are maintained. By adopting this configuration, the installation space of the image forming apparatus 1 can be saved.

[0235] <Third Embodiment>

[0236] The third embodiment of the invention will now be described, in which the construction of the box guide 102 in the first embodiment is modified. Therefore, components similar to those in the first embodiment will be omitted from the figures or described by adding the same reference numerals in the drawings.

[0237] like Figure 23 As shown in parts (a) and (b), the image forming apparatus 1J includes a printer main assembly 100J and a reader 200, and the printer main assembly 100J includes a cartridge guide 102J. The cartridge guide 102J is connected to a protrusion 21a disposed at the axial end of the photosensitive drum 21 (see Figure 100). Figure 5 Part (a) slides, thereby guiding the processing box 20 when it is pulled out.

[0238] A retainer 102Ja is formed at the downstream end of the box guide 102J in the pull-out direction. For this purpose, as follows: Figure 23 As shown in part (b), when the user pulls out the processing cartridge 20, the protruding portion 21a of the processing cartridge 20 abuts against the retainer 102Ja, preventing the processing cartridge 20 from being detached from the printer main assembly 100J. Incidentally, a rotation stop (not shown) is provided near the retainer 102Ja, so that the processing cartridge 20 is held in place by the rotation stop and does not rotate when it abuts against the retainer 102Ja.

[0239] Therefore, as Figure 24 as well as Figure 25 As shown in parts (a) and (b), with the processing cartridge 20 pulled out along the cartridge guide 102J, the supply port 32a is located on the front side of the image forming apparatus 1J. Therefore, a toner supply operation can be easily performed using the toner bag 40 to supply toner from the supply port 32a to the developing container 32. Furthermore, there is ample space directly above the supply port 32a, so a large-capacity toner bag can be mounted on the supply port 32a. Incidentally, any embodiments and variations described above can be suitably combined with each other.

[0240] Incidentally, in any of the embodiments described above, the reading device 200 is disposed above the main printer assembly, but the invention is not limited thereto. That is, the image forming apparatus can be a printer that does not include a reading device. Furthermore, the reading device can be a reading device provided with an ADF (Automatic Document Feeder) for feeding the original document.

[0241] In a toner container configured to be installed in and detachable from a main component receiving portion, the main component receiving portion being a main component (side) receiving portion disposed in an image forming apparatus, the toner container is used to contain toner and includes a receiving port for allowing toner to be received and a connecting portion. The toner container is provided with a container for containing toner, a base fixed to the container (the base including a supply port for allowing toner contained in the container to be supplied to the main component receiving portion), a connecting portion configured to engage with a connecting portion of the main component receiving portion, and a baffle supported by the base so as to be rotatable relative to the base about a rotation axis. The baffle is configured to rotate between a first position where the supply port is open and a second position where the supply port is closed, and the baffle and the connecting portion are coaxially arranged with each other along the rotation axis, and the base is configured to engage with the connecting portion of the main component receiving portion such that the base cannot rotate relative to the main component receiving portion.

[0242] In an image forming apparatus, a toner container is a container for holding toner and includes a supply port for allowing toner supply. A baffle includes a through hole and a blocking portion and is rotatably configured about a rotation axis. A toner receiving portion is configured such that the toner container can be mounted onto the toner receiving portion. It includes a receiving port located at a position overlapping the supply port so that toner can be received from the toner container when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis, and an outlet located at a position not overlapping the supply port. Toner falling from the receiving port and the outlet... The toner is contained in the toner containing portion, and the baffle is configured such that when the baffle is viewed in the direction of the rotation axis, the baffle rotates between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the through-hole overlaps with the receiving port, so that the toner in the toner container is supplied to the toner containing portion. In the second position, the blocking portion overlaps with the receiving port, so that the toner in the toner container cannot be supplied to the toner containing portion. And when the baffle is viewed in the direction of the rotation axis during the rotation of the baffle from the first position to the second position, the baffle passes through a third position where the through-hole overlaps with the discharge port.

[0243] A toner container is capable of being installed into and detached from the main component housing of an image forming apparatus. Such a toner container includes: a bag containing toner and having an opening at an end relative to the longitudinal direction; and a base that is installed to the end of the bag and includes a supply port communicating with the opening for allowing toner to be supplied to the main component housing. The base also includes a support portion for supporting the bag in the longitudinal direction at one end relative to an end perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the bag.

[0244] [Industrial Applicability]

[0245] According to the present invention, a toner container for use in an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, etc., is provided.

[0246] This invention is not limited to the foregoing embodiments, but can be modified and varied in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the appended claims disclose the scope of the invention.

[0247] This application claims conventional priority to Japanese Patent Application Nos. 2019-146927, 2019-146928, 2019-146929, and 2019-146930, all filed on August 9, 2019, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A toner container, comprising: A toner containing a toner container; The base portion is provided with a receiving port for receiving toner from the toner containing portion, an outlet for allowing toner to be discharged to the outside of the toner container, and a channel extending from the receiving port to the outlet for allowing toner to pass through. as well as A baffle, rotatable about a rotation axis relative to the base portion, between an open position where the baffle opens the outlet and a closed position where the baffle closes the outlet, the rotation axis extending in the direction arranging the toner receiving portion and the base portion. The receiving port is located where the rotation axis passes through, and the discharge port is located where the rotation axis does not pass through. The base portion is provided with a hole: (i) the hole opens downward, (ii) the axis of rotation passes through the hole, and (iii) the hole is provided on the bottom side of the base portion when the toner container is oriented along the axis of rotation in the direction of gravity and the base portion is located below the toner receiving portion.

2. The toner container according to claim 1, wherein The hole includes an inner circumferential surface extending in the direction along the axis of rotation.

3. The toner container according to claim 2, wherein, When viewed along a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation, the inner circumferential surface of the hole overlaps with the channel.

4. The toner container according to claim 1, wherein, The hole is a joint portion.

5. The toner container according to claim 1, wherein, When the toner container is viewed along the axis of rotation, the outlet is configured not to overlap with the receiving port.

6. The toner container according to claim 1, wherein, The toner container is a bag.

7. The toner container according to claim 1, wherein, When the toner container is oriented along the direction of gravity extending along the axis of rotation and the base portion is located below the toner receiving portion, the receiving port of the base portion opens upward.

Images