Image forming apparatus

Abstract

An image forming apparatus includes: an image holder; a developing device that attaches a developer to the image holding body; and a supply device that supplies the developer to the developing device, the supply device including a developer flow path through which the developer toward the developing device passes, and a gas flow path through which the developer flows toward the developing device. The gas flow path is provided separately from the developer flow path and through which the gas flowing from the developing device to the supply device passes.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming device. Background Art

[0002] Japanese Patent No. 4633419 discloses a structure in which a developer container of a developing device is provided with a partition plate disposed between a first screw and a second screw for dividing the developer container into two parts, and openings provided at both ends of the partition plate. Summary of the invention

[0003] An image forming apparatus may be provided with a developing device that causes a developer to adhere to an image holding member and a supply device that supplies the developer to the developing device.

[0004] Here, in the structure in which the gas sent from the developing device to the supply device passes through the supply device, when the gas passes through the developer flow path provided in the supply device, the gas is difficult to flow due to the developer present in the developer flow path.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to facilitate the flow of gas from a developing device to a supply device, compared with a structure in which the gas flowing from the developing device to the supply device moves only through a developer flow path provided in the supply device.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming device comprising: an image retaining body; a developing device, the developing device causing a developer to adhere to the image retaining body; and a supply device, the supply device supplying the developer to the developing device, the supply device comprising a developer flow path and a gas flow path, the developer flow path being a flow path which is separately arranged from the developer flow path and through which gas flowing from the developing device to the supply device passes.

[0007] According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the image forming device based on the first aspect, the gas flow path is arranged in the form of a branch from the developer flow path, and is connected to the internal space of the supply device at a position different from the branching position from the developer supply path.

[0008] According to the third aspect of the present invention, in the image forming device based on the second aspect, in the developer flow path, there is a filling portion in a state where the entire cross-section of the developer flow path is filled with developer, and the gas flow path branches off from the developer flow path in the developer movement direction and on the downstream side of the filling portion, and is connected to the internal space of the supply device on the upstream side of the filling portion.

[0009] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the second or third aspect, the gas flow path is connected to a portion of the internal space that is not the developer flow path.

[0010] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the fourth aspect, a moving member for moving the developer accumulated in the portion is provided in the portion other than the developer flow path.

[0011] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, a portion extending in a vertical direction is provided in the gas flow path.

[0012] According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, in the image forming device based on any one of the first to sixth aspects, a laterally extending portion is provided in the gas flow path, and the bottom surface of the laterally extending portion is given an inclination relative to the horizontal direction.

[0013] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, a moving member for moving the developer accumulated in the gas flow path is provided in the gas flow path.

[0014] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the eighth aspect, the developer moved by the moving member is supplied to the developer flow path.

[0015] According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming device based on the first aspect, there is a filling portion in the developer flow path, and the filling portion is a portion that is filled with developer throughout the entire cross-section of the developer flow path. The gas flowing from the developing device to the supply device passes through the portion of the developer flow path that is located on the downstream side of the filling portion, i.e., the downstream side portion, toward the upstream side in the moving direction of the developer, and then enters the gas flow path that is arranged in the form of a branch from the downstream side portion. In the cross-section of the part through which the gas passes in the downstream side portion, the developer is not filled throughout the entire cross-section.

[0016] According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the image forming device based on the first aspect, there is a filling portion in the developer flow path, and the filling portion is a portion that is filled with developer throughout the entire cross-section of the developer flow path. The gas flowing from the developing device to the supply device passes through the portion of the developer flow path that is located on the downstream side of the filling portion, i.e., the downstream side portion, toward the upstream side in the moving direction of the developer, and then enters the gas flow path that is arranged in the form of a branch from the downstream side portion. The developer conveying capacity of the portion of the downstream side portion through which the gas passes is greater than the developer conveying capacity of the filling portion.

[0017] According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming device based on any one of the first to eleventh aspects, the gas flowing from the developing device to the supply device passes through the developer flow path toward the upstream side in the moving direction of the developer, and then enters the gas flow path arranged in the form of a branch from the developer flow path. A moving component is provided in the portion of the developer flow path through which the gas passes, and the moving component rotates around the rotation axis of the developer flow path to move the developer in the developer flow path toward the downstream side. In the portion of the developer flow path through which the gas passes, the shape of the cross-section of the developer flow path is non-circular.

[0018] According to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming device based on the twelfth aspect, the portion of the developer flow path through which the gas passes extends laterally, and in a cross-section of the portion extending laterally, at least one of the outer periphery of the portion, the portion located on the upper left, and the portion located on the upper right protrudes in a direction away from the rotation axis of the moving component.

[0019] According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, an opening for discharging the gas passing through the gas flow path is provided in the supply device.

[0020] According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to the fourteenth aspect, the opening is provided at a location away from the developer flow path.

[0021] (Effect)

[0022] According to the first aspect, the gas flowing from the developing device to the supply device can be made to flow more easily than in a structure in which the gas flowing from the developing device to the supply device moves only through the developer flow path provided in the supply device.

[0023] According to the second aspect, the gas that has passed through the gas flow path can be returned to the inside of the supply device.

[0024] According to the third aspect, the gas flowing from the developing device to the supply device can be returned to the inside of the supply device after bypassing the filling portion of the supply device.

[0025] According to the fourth aspect, compared with the case where the gas passing through the gas flow path returns to the space inside the supply device to the area where the developer flow path is provided, the gas passing through the gas flow path can be returned to the area inside the supply device where the developer flow path is less.

[0026] According to the fifth aspect, the developer accumulated in the portion connected to the gas flow path in the internal space of the supply device can be moved.

[0027] According to the sixth aspect, compared with a case where all parts of the gas flow path are arranged in the horizontal direction, accumulation of developer in the gas flow path can be suppressed.

[0028] According to the seventh aspect, compared with a case where the bottom surface of the portion extending in the lateral direction is not inclined with respect to the horizontal direction, the developer accumulated on the bottom surface can be reduced.

[0029] According to the eighth aspect, the developer accumulated in the gas flow path can be moved.

[0030] According to the ninth aspect, the developer accumulated in the gas flow path can be moved to the developer flow path through which the developer passes.

[0031] According to the tenth aspect, the gas can be moved more smoothly in the downstream portion, compared with a case where the entire cross section of the portion through which the gas passes in the downstream portion is filled with the developer.

[0032] According to the eleventh aspect, the gas can be moved more smoothly in the downstream portion, compared with a case where the developer conveying capability at the portion through which the gas passes in the downstream portion is smaller than the developer conveying capability at the filling portion.

[0033] According to the twelfth aspect, in the portion of the developer flow path through which the gas passes, the gas can be moved more smoothly than in a case where the cross-sectional shape of the developer flow path is circular.

[0034] According to the thirteenth aspect, in the portion of the developer flow path through which the gas passes, the gas can be moved more smoothly than in a case where the cross-sectional shape of the developer flow path is circular.

[0035] According to the fourteenth aspect, in the supply device, the gas flowing from the developing device to the supply device can be exhausted.

[0036] According to the fifteenth aspect, compared with a case where the opening is provided in the developer flow path, the developer reaching the opening can be reduced. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] Figure 1 is a diagram showing an image forming apparatus;

[0038] Figure 2 This is a diagram of the developing device viewed from above;

[0039] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the developing device at line III-III in FIG.

[0040] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the developing device at line IV-IV in FIG.

[0041] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the developing device at line VV in FIG.

[0042] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the developing device at line VI-VI in FIG.

[0043] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the supply device when viewed from the back side of the image forming device;

[0044] Figure 8 is a diagram for explaining a developer accumulating portion;

[0045] Fig. 9 (A) and Fig. 9 (B) is a diagram showing a filling portion, a gas flow path, etc.;

[0046] Fig.10 is a perspective view of the developer accumulation portion when viewed from above;

[0047] Fig.11 is an enlarged view of one end portion of the developer accumulation portion;

[0048] Fig.12 2. It is a diagram showing a state where the upper part is installed on the lower container;

[0049] Fig.13 yes Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the supply device at line XIII-XIII in FIG.

[0050] Fig.14is a cross-sectional view of the supply device on a plane orthogonal to the length direction of the developer storage container;

[0051] Fig.15 is a diagram showing the flow of gas when the supply device is viewed from above;

[0052] Fig.16 is a diagram showing another structural example of a supply device;

[0053] Fig.17 is a diagram illustrating a supply device according to a second embodiment;

[0054] Fig.18 Yes means Fig.17 A cross-sectional view of the lower flow path at line XVIII-XVIII in FIG.

[0055] Fig.19 is a diagram when the developer accumulating portion of the second embodiment is viewed from above;

[0056] Fig. 20 yes Fig.17 A cross-sectional view of the supply device at line XX-XX in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0057] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0058] Figure 1 1 is a diagram showing an image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment. Figure 1 The state when the image forming apparatus 100 is viewed from the front side of the image forming apparatus 100 is shown.

[0059] The image forming apparatus 100 is an image forming apparatus of a so-called tandem intermediate transfer system.

[0060] The image forming apparatus 100 is provided with a plurality of image forming units 200 for forming an image to be transferred onto a sheet of paper P as an example of a recording medium.

[0061] Each image forming unit 200 includes a photosensitive drum 11 as an example of an image holding member, and forms an image, i.e., a toner image, on the photosensitive drum 11 using a developer containing a toner to be transferred to the paper P. In other words, each image forming unit 200 forms a toner image to be transferred to the paper P on the photosensitive drum 11 using a powdered developer.

[0062] The developer of this embodiment is composed of a dry carrier and a dry toner. Each image forming unit 200 forms a toner image on the photosensitive drum 11 using the carrier and the toner.

[0063] The six image forming units 200 form toner images on the photosensitive drums 11 using developers of different types.

[0064] Specifically, in the present embodiment, four of the six image forming units 200 form toner images using developers of basic colors such as yellow, magenta, cyan, and black.

[0065] In addition, the remaining two image forming units 200 form toner images using developers other than basic colors such as transparent, white, gold, silver, pink, green, and orange.

[0066] In addition, as a developer other than the basic color, in addition to this, as an example, a developer containing a magnetic colorant or a developer containing a conductive colorant can be cited. In addition, as a developer other than the basic color, as an example, a developer containing a colorant that emits light when irradiated with light such as ultraviolet rays or infrared rays can be cited.

[0067] In the present embodiment, a so-called two-component developer in which a carrier and a toner are mixed is used as the developer. However, the developer is not limited to this, and a so-called one-component developer consisting of only a toner may be used.

[0068] The image forming apparatus 100 is provided with an intermediate transfer belt 15 and a primary transfer unit 10 for transferring the toner images formed in the image forming units 200 onto the intermediate transfer belt 15 .

[0069] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 100 is provided with a secondary transfer unit 20 for transferring the toner image transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 15 onto the paper P.

[0070] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 100 is provided with a fixing device 60 that fixes the toner image transferred onto the paper P onto the paper P.

[0071] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 100 is provided with a control unit 40 including a CPU that executes a program and controls each unit in the image forming apparatus 100 .

[0072] In addition, the image forming apparatus 100 is provided with a UI (User Interface) 45 which is composed of a display panel and the like and receives instructions from the user and displays information to the user.

[0073] The developing device 14 is provided in each image forming section 200. In addition, the supply device 70 for supplying developer to the developing device 14 is provided in each image forming section 200.

[0074] The developing device 14 makes the developer adhere to the photosensitive drum 11. Thus, the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 11 is visualized by the toner. In other words, the developing device 14 develops the photosensitive drum 11 as an image holder, and forms an image formed of the toner on the photosensitive drum 11.

[0075] The supply device 70 supplies new developer to the developing device 14 .

[0076] The supply device 70 conveys the developer from the developer storage container 80 mounted on the image forming apparatus 100 to the developing device 14 , and supplies the developer to the developing device 14 .

[0077] As described above, the developer is composed of a carrier and a toner, and the supply device 70 replenishes the carrier and the toner as the developer to the developing device 14. In the present embodiment, the carrier has a positive charge polarity, and the toner has a negative charge polarity.

[0078] In each image forming unit 200 , a photosensitive drum 11 as an example of an image holding member rotates in the arrow A direction.

[0079] Each image forming unit 200 is provided with a charger 12 for charging the photosensitive drum 11 and an exposure device 13 for forming an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 11. The exposure device 13 includes a light source such as an LED, and irradiates light to the photosensitive drum 11 to form an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 11.

[0080] Each image forming unit 200 is provided with a primary transfer roller 16 for transferring the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 11 in the primary transfer unit 10 to the intermediate transfer belt 15. Each image forming unit 200 is provided with a drum cleaner 17 for removing the developer remaining on the photosensitive drum 11.

[0081] The intermediate transfer belt 15 is driven by a driving roller 31 which is driven by a motor (not shown) along the Figure 1 The machine moves in a circular motion in the direction of arrow B at a preset speed.

[0082] The primary transfer unit 10 includes a primary transfer roller 16 disposed opposite to the photosensitive drum 11 via the intermediate transfer belt 15. The toner images on the photosensitive drums 11 are electrostatically attracted to the intermediate transfer belt 15 in sequence, and superimposed toner images are formed on the intermediate transfer belt 15.

[0083] The secondary transfer section 20 as an example of a transfer section includes a secondary transfer roller 22 disposed on the outer surface side of the intermediate transfer belt 15 and a backup roller 25 disposed on the inner surface side of the intermediate transfer belt 15 .

[0084] In the present embodiment, in the secondary transfer section 20 , the toner image formed by the image forming section 200 and transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 15 is transferred onto the paper P transported to the secondary transfer section 20 .

[0085] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, a reversing mechanism 900 for reversing the paper P is provided.

[0086] The reversing mechanism 900 reverses the front and back sides of the paper P on one side of which the toner image has been transferred in the secondary transfer section 20 , and supplies the paper P to the secondary transfer section 20 again.

[0087] Thus, in the present embodiment, toner images can be formed on both sides of the paper P.

[0088] The reversing mechanism 900 feeds the paper P after passing through the fixing device 60 to a branch path R2 branched from the paper conveying path R1 , and reverses the front and back sides of the paper P.

[0089] More specifically, the reversing mechanism 900 conveys the paper P in the reverse direction after the paper P passes through the branch portion BP, and further sends the paper P into the branch path R2.

[0090] The branch path R2 merges with the paper conveying path R1 on the upstream side of the secondary transfer unit 20. Thus, in the present embodiment, the paper P in a state where the front and back sides are reversed is again supplied to the secondary transfer unit 20. In this case, a toner image is formed not only on one side of the paper P but also on the other side, and a toner image is formed on both sides of the paper P.

[0091] The flow of processing performed in image forming apparatus 100 will be described.

[0092] The image forming apparatus 100 receives image data outputted from, for example, an image reading device (not shown) or a computer, and then performs image processing on the image data, thereby generating image data corresponding to each of the plurality of image forming units 200 .

[0093] Specifically, for example, image data used for forming an image using developers of basic colors such as yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, and image data used for forming an image using developers other than the basic colors are generated.

[0094] The generated image data is output to the exposure device 13 provided in the image forming section 200 .

[0095] The exposure device 13 irradiates the photosensitive drum 11 with light emitted from a light source based on input image data.

[0096] In the present embodiment, after the surface of each photosensitive drum 11 is charged by the charger 12 , the surface is subjected to scanning exposure by the exposure device 13 . Thus, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 11 .

[0097] Next, development is performed by the developing device 14, and the toner contained in the developer adheres to the photosensitive drum 11. Thus, a toner image is formed on the photosensitive drum 11. The toner image is transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 15 in the primary transfer unit 10.

[0098] After the toner image is transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 15 , the toner image moves to the secondary transfer section 20 as the intermediate transfer belt 15 moves.

[0099] At this time, the paper P from the first paper storage unit 53 and the second paper storage unit 54 is transported to the secondary transfer unit 20 by the transport roller 52 or the like. Then, the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 15 is electrostatically transferred onto the paper P in the secondary transfer unit 20 at the same time.

[0100] Thereafter, the paper P to which the toner image has been transferred is peeled off the intermediate transfer belt 15 and is transported to the transport belt 55 . The transport belt 55 transports the paper P to the fixing device 60 .

[0101] The paper P conveyed to the fixing device 60 is heated and pressed in the fixing device 60 . Thus, the toner image on the paper P is fixed on the paper P. Then, the paper P is discharged from the image forming apparatus 100 .

[0102] When toner images are formed on both sides of the paper P, after the paper P passes through the fixing device 60 , the paper P is supplied to the secondary transfer unit 20 again through the branch path R2 .

[0103] Then, the toner image is transferred to the other side of the paper P in the secondary transfer unit 20. Thereafter, the paper P passes through the fixing device 60 again, and the toner image transferred to the other side is fixed on the paper P.

[0104] The developing device 14 will be described.

[0105] Figure 2 This is a diagram when the developing device 14 is viewed from above.

[0106] When the developing device 14 is installed in the image forming apparatus 100, it is arranged along the depth direction of the image forming apparatus 100. The developing device 14 has one end 141 and the other end 142 which are located at different positions in the longitudinal direction.

[0107] The developing device 14 is provided in the image forming apparatus 100 such that one end portion 141 is located on the rear side of the image forming apparatus 100 and the other end portion 142 is located on the front side of the image forming apparatus 100 .

[0108] A driving force receiving portion 143 for receiving driving force is provided at one end portion 141 of the developing device 14. The driving force from a driving source (not shown) such as a motor provided on the main body side of the image forming apparatus 100 is transmitted to the driving force receiving portion 143.

[0109] The driving force receiving portion 143 is linked to a conveying member or the like (described later) provided inside the developing device 14. The driving force from the driving source is transmitted to the driving force receiving portion 143, so that the conveying member or the like rotates.

[0110] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the developing device 14 at line III-III in FIG. Figure 3 , a state of a cross section at a central portion in the longitudinal direction of the developing device 14 is shown.

[0111] The developing device 14 is provided with a one-way moving path 191 through which the developer passes when moving in one direction.

[0112] Furthermore, a reverse movement path 192 is provided in the developing device 14 , through which the developer passes when the developer moves in the opposite direction to the one direction. The reverse movement path 192 is arranged below the one-way movement path 191 .

[0113] In the one-way moving path 191, the developer moves toward Figure 3 In the reverse moving path 192, the developer moves in a direction perpendicular to the paper surface and in the back direction of the paper surface. Figure 3 Move in a direction perpendicular to the paper surface and toward the front side of the paper surface.

[0114] A one-way transport member 410 for transporting the developer is provided on the one-way moving path 191. In the present embodiment, the one-way transport member 410 rotates around a rotation shaft 411 extending along the one-way moving path 191, so that the developer moves inward.

[0115] The reverse transport member 420 for transporting the developer is provided on the reverse movement path 192. The reverse transport member 420 is disposed below the one-way transport member 410.

[0116] In the present embodiment, the reverse transport member 420 rotates around a rotation shaft 421 extending along the reverse movement path 192 , so that the developer moves toward the front side.

[0117] In the present embodiment, the developer is transported in the direction opposite to the one direction described above by the reverse transport member 420 .

[0118] Furthermore, a rotating body 430 for supplying developer to the photosensitive drum 11 as an example of an image holding member is provided on the left side of the one-way transport member 410 .

[0119] Furthermore, the developing device 14 is provided with a facing opening 480 disposed at a position facing the photosensitive drum 11 and provided with the rotating body 430. In the present embodiment, a part of the rotating body 430 is exposed through the facing opening 480.

[0120] The rotating body 430 supplies the developer supplied from the one-way transport member 410 to the photosensitive drum 11. The rotating body 430 receives the developer supplied from the one-way transport member 410 and supplies the developer to the photosensitive drum 11.

[0121] The rotating body 430 is formed of a cylindrical body and is formed of metal such as SUS.

[0122] The rotating body 430 rotates counterclockwise in the figure with the shaft center 431 as the rotation center, and moves the developer supplied from the one-way conveying member 410 and attached to its outer peripheral surface to the photosensitive drum 11. Thus, the developer is supplied to the photosensitive drum 11, and the toner contained in the developer adheres to the surface of the photosensitive drum 11.

[0123] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a first movement restricting portion 450 is provided between the rotating body 430 and the one-way transport member 410 to restrict movement of a portion of the developer that is to move from the one-way transport member 410 to the rotating body 430 .

[0124] In the present embodiment, the developer on the one-way moving path 191 that passes over the first movement restricting portion 450 is supplied to the rotating body 430 .

[0125] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, a lower conveying member 440 is provided which is arranged below the rotating body 430. The lower conveying member 440 is a rotating member which rotates around an axial center 440A along the above-mentioned one direction.

[0126] The lower transport member 440 is arranged closer to the photoconductive drum 11 than the reverse transport member 420 .

[0127] The lower conveying member 440 is Figure 3 The developer separated from the rotating body 430 is transported in a direction perpendicular to the paper surface and in a direction to the back of the paper surface.

[0128] The lower conveying member 440 conveys the developer separated from the rotating body 430 in the above-mentioned one direction, and the developer is supplied to one end side of the reverse conveying member 420 (details will be described later).

[0129] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, a second movement restricting portion 452 is provided. The second movement restricting portion 452 is disposed between the lower conveying member 440 and the reverse conveying member 420 and restricts movement of the developer from the reverse conveying member 420 to the lower conveying member 440 .

[0130] In addition, a third movement restricting portion 453 is provided between the rotating body 430 and the reverse transport member 420 to restrict movement of the developer from the reverse transport member 420 to the rotating body 430 .

[0131] Furthermore, a fourth movement restricting portion 454 is provided between the one-way transport member 410 and the reverse transport member 420 to restrict movement of the developer from the one-way transport member 410 to the reverse transport member 420 and movement of the developer from the reverse transport member 420 to the one-way transport member 410 .

[0132] Furthermore, a fifth movement restricting portion 455 is provided between the rotating body 430 and the lower conveying member 440 to restrict movement of the developer from the lower conveying member 440 to the rotating body 430 .

[0133] A magnet roller 145B is provided inside the rotating body 430 .

[0134] The magnet roller 145B is provided with five magnetic poles 121 to 125 arranged along the circumferential direction of the magnet roller 145B.

[0135] The magnetic pole 121 is a pickup pole, and attracts the developer supplied from the one-way moving path 191 . As a result, the developer adheres to the surface of the rotating body 430 .

[0136] The magnetic poles 122 to 124 function as transport poles to move the developer on the surface of the rotating body 430 toward the downstream side in the rotation direction of the rotating body 430 .

[0137] A relative restriction portion 127 is provided at a relative position on the outer peripheral surface of the rotating body 430 , downstream of the magnetic pole 122 and upstream of the magnetic pole 123 in the rotation direction of the rotating body 430 .

[0138] The relative restriction portion 127 is disposed with a gap between it and the rotating body 430. The relative restriction portion 127 restricts movement of a portion of the developer attached to the surface of the rotating body 430, and sets the thickness of the developer attached to the surface of the rotating body 430 to a preset thickness.

[0139] When the developer on the surface of the rotating body 430 moves to the downstream side in the rotation direction of the rotating body 430 , the developer moves to the surface of the photosensitive drum 11 , and the toner contained in the developer adheres to the photosensitive drum 11 .

[0140] Thus, development is performed and a toner image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 11 .

[0141] The toner image is temporarily held by the photosensitive drum 11 and moves to the primary transfer section 10 (see FIG. 1 ) by the rotation of the photosensitive drum 11. Figure 1 ). Then, the image is transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 15.

[0142] Magnetic pole 125 (refer to Figure 3 ) has the function of acting as a pickup pole, forming a repulsive magnetic field to separate the developer attached to the surface of the rotating body 430 from the rotating body 430.

[0143] The magnetic pole 125 causes the developer remaining on the surface of the rotating body 430 to be separated from the rotating body 430 without being transferred to the photosensitive drum 11 .

[0144] The developer separated from the rotating body 430 moves downward and reaches the downward movement path 193 .

[0145] The developer reaching the lower moving path 193 is conveyed to the one end portion 141 (see FIG. Figure 2 ) side, and then moves to the reverse movement path 192 (details are described later).

[0146] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the developing device 14 taken along line IV-IV in FIG.

[0147] exist Figure 4 , a cross-sectional state at the other end portion 142 of the developing device 14 is shown.

[0148] An upward movement path 196 arranged along the vertical direction is provided at the other end portion 142 of the developing device 14. The developer moved through the reverse movement path 192 passes through the upward movement path 196 and moves toward the one-way movement path 191.

[0149] In this embodiment, the developer accumulated in the reverse movement path 192 at the downstream end in the developer movement direction is squeezed by the developer sequentially conveyed from the upstream side, thereby passing through the upper movement path 196 and moving toward the unidirectional movement path 191 .

[0150] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 sectional view of the developing device 14 at line VV in FIG. Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the developing device 14 taken along the VI-VI line in FIG.

[0151] exist Figure 5 , a cross-sectional state at one end portion 141 of the developing device 14 is shown.

[0152] like Figure 5 As shown, a downward movement path 197 arranged along the up-down direction is provided at one end portion 141 of the developing device 14 .

[0153] In the present embodiment, the developer moved through the one-way moving path 191 passes through the downward moving path 197 and moves toward the reverse moving path 192 .

[0154] Furthermore, in this embodiment, if Figure 5 , Figure 6 As shown, a connecting path 190 extending in the transverse direction and connecting the downward moving path 193 and the reverse moving path 192 is provided.

[0155] In the present embodiment, the developer moved by the lower conveying member 440 along the lower moving path 193 passes through the connecting path 190 and moves toward the reverse moving path 192 .

[0156] In the present embodiment, the developer accumulated at the downstream end of the lower moving path 193 in the moving direction of the developer is pressed by the developer sequentially conveyed from the upstream side, and moves toward the reverse moving path 192 through the connecting path 190 .

[0157] In this embodiment, the developer moves along a unidirectional moving path 191 (see Figure 3 ) and the reverse movement path 192 to circulate the developer.

[0158] Furthermore, a part of the developer moving in the one-way moving path 191 is supplied to the rotating body 430 , and the developer is supplied to the photosensitive drum 11 via the rotating body 430 .

[0159] The developer which is not supplied to the photosensitive drum 11 and remains on the surface of the rotating body 430 is separated from the rotating body 430 and reaches the lower movement path 193. Then, the developer moves toward the reverse movement path 192 through the lower movement path 193.

[0160] Furthermore, in this embodiment, if Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , a first receiving port 151 for receiving the developer is provided in the developing device 14 . The developing device 14 receives the developer supplied from the supply device 70 through the first receiving port 151 .

[0161] like Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the developer sent from the supply device 70 enters the interior of the developing device 14 through the first receiving port 151.

[0162] In addition, in this embodiment, Figure 2 A second receiving port 152 is provided at a location indicated by reference numeral 2A in FIG.

[0163] In this embodiment, the user can manually use a jig (not shown) to supply new developer to the developing device 14. When the user manually supplies new developer, the user first peels off the blocking member 153. Then, the user supplies the developer to the developing device 14 through the second receiving port 152 that appears when the blocking member 153 is peeled off.

[0164] Furthermore, in the developing device 14 of the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 As shown, a relative opening 480 for setting the rotating body 430 is provided at a relative position of the photosensitive drum 11.

[0165] In this embodiment, the first receiving port 151 , the second receiving port 152 , and the facing opening 480 are provided in this manner.

[0166] In the present embodiment, except for the first receiving port 151 , the second receiving port 152 , and the facing opening 480 , the developing device 14 is not provided with an opening, that is, a connecting opening, which is an opening for communicating the inside and the outside of the developing device 14 .

[0167] In the present embodiment, the internal pressure of the developing device 14 is released from the opening provided in the supply device 70 , rather than from the connecting opening provided in the developing device 14 .

[0168] In this embodiment, the developer adhering to the surface of the rotating body 430 returns to the developing device 14 instead of being transferred to the photosensitive drum 11, so that the air outside the developing device 14 is taken into the developing device 14. As a result, the internal pressure of the developing device 14 increases.

[0169] In this embodiment, as the internal pressure of the developing device 14 increases, the gas that is intended to move from the inside to the outside of the developing device 14 moves toward the supply device 70 (see Figure 1 Then, the gas passes through the opening ( Figure 1 The gas is discharged to the outside of the supply device 70 (not shown). As the gas, for example, air can be cited.

[0170] Furthermore, it is not excluded that the developing device 14 is provided with a connection opening, and a structure in which the developing device 14 is provided with a connection opening and an opening is provided in the supply device 70 may be adopted.

[0171] In this case, the gas that is about to move from the inside to the outside of the developing device 14 is discharged to the outside of the developing device 14 through both the connecting opening and the opening provided in the supply device 70 .

[0172] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the supply device 70 as viewed from the back side of the image forming apparatus 100. Figure 7 , a state where the developer storage container 80 is installed is shown.

[0173] In the present embodiment, the developer storage container 80 storing unused developer is disposed relative to the image forming apparatus 100 (see Figure 1 ) can be installed and removed.

[0174] When the developer container 80 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 100, the developer container 80 is positioned toward the image forming apparatus 100. Figure 7 The developer container 80 is moved in the direction indicated by the arrow 7A in FIG. 1 to install the developer container 80 in the image forming apparatus 100 .

[0175] When the developer container 80 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 100 , the supply device 70 is located below the developer container 80 .

[0176] The developer container 80 includes one end portion 81 located at the front when the developer container 80 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 100 , and another end portion 82 located on the opposite side to the one end portion 81 .

[0177] An outlet portion for the developer is provided below one end portion 81 of the developer container 80. The developer in the developer container 80 passes through the outlet portion and moves toward the supply device 70 located below.

[0178] The supply device 70 has one end 71 and another end 72 .

[0179] One end 71 of the supply device 70 is located on the rear side of the image forming apparatus 100 , and the other end 72 of the supply device 70 is located on the front side of the image forming apparatus 100 .

[0180] A receiving port ( 71 ) for receiving the developer from the developer storage container 80 is provided on the side of the one end portion 71 of the supply device 70. Figure 7 (not shown in the figure).

[0181] In other words, a receiving port for receiving the developer conveyed to the supply device 70 from the upstream side of the supply device 70 in the conveying direction of the developer is provided on the one end portion 71 side of the supply device 70 .

[0182] The developer storage container 80 has a function of delivering the developer in the developer storage container to the outside.

[0183] In the developer conveying direction, the developer container 80 is located on the upstream side of the supply device 70. The receiving port of the supply device 70 receives the developer supplied from the developer container 80 located on the upstream side.

[0184] Furthermore, the supply device 70 is provided with a developer accumulating portion 500 for accumulating the developer that has passed through the receiving port and entered the supply device 70 .

[0185] The developer supplied from the developer storage container 80 to the supply device 70 is temporarily stored in the developer storage portion 500 . Thus, the developer is temporarily stored in the developer storage portion 500 .

[0186] The developer moves through the inside of the developer storage portion 500 , and is then discharged from a discharge port 74 provided at one end portion 71 of the supply device 70 .

[0187] The supply device 70 is provided with a discharge port 74 for discharging the developer received at the receiving port. The developer discharged from the discharge port 74 is supplied to the developing device 14 ( Figure 7 (not shown in the figure).

[0188] In this embodiment, a first receiving port 151 (see FIG. 1 ) provided on the developing device 14 is arranged directly below the discharge port 74 of the supply device 70. Figure 2 ).

[0189] The developer discharged from the discharge port 74 passes through the first receiving port 151 and moves into the developing device 14. Thus, the developer is supplied from the supply device 70 to the developing device 14.

[0190] In the present embodiment, as described above, the developer is temporarily stored in the developer storage portion 500 .

[0191] Thus, for example, even if the developer container 80 is removed as the developer container 80 becomes empty, the developer can be supplied from the supply device 70 to the developing device 14 .

[0192] Even if the developer container 80 is removed, the developer in the developer storage portion 500 is supplied to the developing device 14. Therefore, even if the developer container 80 is removed, the developer can be supplied from the supply device 70 to the developing device 14.

[0193] In this case, even if the developer storage container 80 is removed, the image forming operation can be prevented from being stopped immediately. In addition, in this case, image formation can be continued until a new developer storage container 80 is installed.

[0194] Figure 8 This is a diagram for explaining the developer accumulating section 500 .

[0195] The developer storage portion 500 is provided with a developer flow path 510 through which the developer moving toward the developing device 14 passes.

[0196] Figure 8 The developer flow path 510 shown in FIG. 5 is provided in a manner extending from the inside of the developer accumulating portion 500 toward the outside.

[0197] In the present embodiment, the developer flow path 510 has a filling portion 511 , which is a portion in which the developer flow path 510 is filled with developer over the entire cross section.

[0198] In this specification, a “cross section” of the developer flow path 510 refers to a cross section of the developer flow path 510 on a plane orthogonal to the extending direction of the developer flow path 510 .

[0199] A cylindrical portion 512 is provided around the filling portion 511. In the present embodiment, the inner side of the cylindrical portion 512 serves as the filling portion 511.

[0200] The developer is filled throughout the entire inside of the cylindrical portion 512 and in a cross section perpendicular to the axial direction of the cylindrical portion 512 , and the developer is densely packed. Thus, in this embodiment, a filled portion 511 filled with developer is generated inside the cylindrical portion 512 .

[0201] In the structure in which the filling portion 511 is produced, the amount of developer supplied from the supply device 70 to the developing device 14 per unit time is stabilized.

[0202] In the absence of the filling portion 511 , the developer moving toward the developing device 14 becomes sparse or dense, and the amount of developer supplied from the supply device 70 to the developing device 14 per unit time is likely to vary.

[0203] The developer flow path 510 changes direction and faces downward on the downstream side of the filling portion 511 in the developer conveying direction.

[0204] The developer flow path 510 is provided with a lateral flow path 513 extending in the lateral direction and a vertical flow path 514 extending in the vertical direction.

[0205] The developer having passed through the filling portion 511 moves in a direction away from the filling portion 511 through the lateral flow path 513. Then, the developer moves downward through the vertical flow path 514. The developer falls in the vertical flow path 514.

[0206] The discharge port 74 of the supply device 70 and the first receiving port 151 of the developing device 14 are provided below the vertical flow path 514 , and the developer moving downward through the vertical flow path 514 is supplied to the developing device 14 .

[0207] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, a gas flow path 530 is provided which is provided separately from the developer flow path 510 and is a flow path through which the gas flowing from the developing device 14 to the supply device 70 passes.

[0208] In the present embodiment, as described above, as the internal pressure of the developing device 14 increases, the gas flows from the developing device 14 toward the supply device 70 .

[0209] The gas flowing from the developing device 14 to the supply device 70 enters the supply device 70 from the discharge port 74 of the supply device 70, moves upward through the vertical flow path 514, and then enters the gas flow path 530 branched from the developer flow path 510.

[0210] The gas entering the gas flow path 530 moves toward the opening 505 provided in the supply device 70 and is discharged from the opening 505. In addition, a filter 506 is provided at the opening 505. Figure 8 In the embodiment, an opening 505 is provided behind the filter 506 .

[0211] Fig. 9 (A) and (B) are diagrams showing the filling portion 511, the gas flow path 530, and the like. Fig. 9 (A) is a three-dimensional view of the filling portion 511, the gas flow path 530, etc., Fig. 9 (B) is from Fig. 9 A diagram showing a filling portion 511, a gas flow path 530, etc., as viewed from the direction indicated by arrow IXB in (A).

[0212] In this embodiment, as described above, in addition, Fig. 9 As shown in (A) of FIG. 5 , a developer flow path 510 is provided extending from the inside of the developer storage portion 500 to the outside.

[0213] A filling portion 511 exists on the developer flow path 510 and inside the cylindrical portion 512 .

[0214] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the gas flow path 530 is provided above the cylindrical portion 512 in the figure. In other words, the gas flow path 530 is provided above the filling portion 511.

[0215] like Figure 8 As shown, the gas flow path 530 is provided in a form branched from the developer flow path 510 .

[0216] In the present embodiment, there is a branching portion 98 as an example of a branching location where the air supply flow path 530 branches from the developer flow path 510. The branching portion 98 is located downstream of the filling portion 511 in the developer conveying direction.

[0217] In the present embodiment, the gas flow path 530 branches off from the developer flow path 510 on the downstream side of the filling portion 511 in the developer conveying direction.

[0218] After the gas flow path 530 branches off from the developer flow path 510, Fig. 9 As shown in (A), the gas passes from above the filling portion 511. The gas that has passed through the gas flow path 530 passes from above the filling portion 511. The gas that has passed through the gas flow path 530 passes from a portion other than the filling portion 511 and moves toward the upstream side in the moving direction of the developer.

[0219] In the filling portion 511 , the developer is in a dense state, and it is difficult for gas to pass through. Therefore, in the present embodiment, a gas flow path 530 for allowing gas to pass through is provided at a location other than the filling portion 511 .

[0220] like Figure 8 As shown, the gas flow path 530 extends from the branch portion 98 toward the cylindrical portion 512 side, and further passes from above the cylindrical portion 512 toward the upstream side in the moving direction of the developer.

[0221] As will be described later, the gas flow path 530 is connected again to the internal space of the supply device 70 on the upstream side of the filling portion 511 in the moving direction of the developer.

[0222] The gas flow path 530 is connected again to the internal space of the supply device 70 at a location different from the branching portion 98 where the gas flow path 530 branches from the developer flow path 510 .

[0223] In this embodiment, if Fig. 9 As shown in (B), the gas from the developing device 14 first passes through the up-down direction flow path 514 provided as a part of the developer flow path 510 and moves toward the upstream side in the moving direction of the developer.

[0224] After that, the gas once enters the lateral flow path 513, and then enters the gas flow path 530 located above the lateral flow path 513. Then, the gas passes through the gas flow path 530 and moves to the left in the figure.

[0225] like Fig. 9 As shown in (B), the gas flow path 530 extends in the lateral direction, and the gas flow path 530 is provided with a lateral portion 531 which is a portion extending in the lateral direction.

[0226] In this embodiment, if Fig. 9 As shown in (A), the bottom surface of the lateral portion 531 is provided with an inclination 532 that is inclined relative to the horizontal direction. The inclination 532 is an inclination that is downward toward the upstream side in the moving direction of the gas passing through the gas flow path 530.

[0227] Since the bottom surface is provided with the inclination 532, it is difficult for the developer to accumulate on the bottom surface. The developer placed on the bottom surface of the gas flow path 530 at the inclination 532 slides and moves toward the bottom surface. Fig. 9 Move to the lower right direction in (A).

[0228] The lateral flow path 513 is located on the downstream side in the lower right direction. The developer placed on the bottom surface of the gas flow path 530 moves toward the lateral flow path 513 .

[0229] Fig.10 This is a perspective view of the developer accumulating portion 500 as viewed from above. Fig.11 It is an enlarged view of one end portion 500A of the developer accumulating portion 500 .

[0230] exist Fig.10 , a state in which the developer accumulating portion 500 is viewed from the other end portion 500B side of the developer accumulating portion 500 is shown.

[0231] like Fig.10 As shown, the developer storage portion 500 is provided with a storage container 80 ( Fig.10 A rectangular lower container 518 for supplying developer (not shown).

[0232] A one-way transport member 521 for transporting the developer in one direction and a reverse transport member 522 for transporting the developer in a direction opposite to the one direction are provided inside the lower container 518 .

[0233] The one-way conveying member 521 and the reverse conveying member 522 are provided in parallel with each other and are provided along the longitudinal direction of the lower container 518 .

[0234] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, a driving source (not shown) such as a motor is provided to drive the one-way transport member 521 and the reverse transport member 522 .

[0235] The one-way transport member 521 is formed of a coil. In other words, the one-way transport member 521 is formed by bending a wire into a spiral shape.

[0236] The reverse transport member 522 is composed of a rod-shaped rotating shaft (not shown) and a protruding portion 522A which is disposed around the rotating shaft and provided in a spiral shape and protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the rotating shaft.

[0237] In this embodiment, the coil-shaped one-way transport member 521 is rotated by a driving source around a rotation axis along the axial direction of the one-way transport member 521 . As a result, the developer gradually moves in the axial direction of the one-way transport member 521 .

[0238] More specifically, the developer moves toward one end portion 521A in the axial direction of the one-way transport member 521 .

[0239] In the present embodiment, the reverse transport member 522 is rotated about the rotation axis by the driving source, thereby squeezing the developer by the protrusion 522A provided on the reverse transport member 522 , and the developer moves in the axial direction of the reverse transport member 522 .

[0240] More specifically, the developer moves toward the other end portion 522B of the reverse transport member 522 in the axial direction.

[0241] Furthermore, inside the lower container 518, a one-way flow path 541, which is a flow path through which the developer moves in one direction, and a reverse flow path 542, which is a flow path through which the developer moves in a direction opposite to the one direction, are provided.

[0242] The one-way flow path 541 and the reverse flow path 542 are provided in parallel with each other and are provided along the longitudinal direction of the lower container 518 .

[0243] A one-way transport member 521 is disposed in the one-way flow path 541 . The developer transported by the one-way transport member 521 moves in the one-way flow path 541 .

[0244] The reverse conveying member 522 is disposed in the reverse flow path 542 . The developer conveyed by the reverse conveying member 522 moves in the reverse flow path 542 .

[0245] Furthermore, if Fig.11As shown, at one end 500A of the developer accumulating portion 500 and inside the lower container 518 , a one end side connecting flow path 543 connecting one end 541A of the one-way flow path 541 and one end 542A of the reverse flow path 542 is provided.

[0246] In addition, if Fig.10 As shown, at the other end 500B of the developer accumulating portion 500 and inside the lower container 518 , an other end side connecting flow path 544 that connects the other end 541B of the one-way flow path 541 and the other end 542B of the reverse flow path 542 is provided.

[0247] Furthermore, if Fig.10 As shown, an annular wall portion 550 which is an annular wall portion is provided inside the lower container 518 .

[0248] The annular wall portion 550 is annular when the lower container 518 is viewed from above. In addition, the annular wall portion 550 is rectangular when the lower container 518 is viewed from above.

[0249] The annular wall portion 550 is provided between the one-way flow path 541 and the reverse flow path 542. In addition, the annular wall portion 550 is provided at one end side connecting flow path 543 (refer to Fig.11 ) and the other end side connecting flow path 544.

[0250] like Fig.10 As shown, the annular wall portion 550 is provided in a form protruding upward from the bottom surface of the lower container 518. Furthermore, the annular wall portion 550 is provided in a form along the longitudinal direction of the lower container 518.

[0251] A one-way flow path 541, a reverse flow path 542, and a one-end side connecting flow path 543 (see Fig.11 ), and the other end side is connected to the flow path 544.

[0252] In the present embodiment, the developer conveyed by the one-way conveying member 521 and the reverse conveying member 522 moves through the space around the annular wall portion 550 in the space inside the lower container 518 .

[0253] More specifically, the developer conveyed by the one-way conveying member 521 and the reverse conveying member 522 passes through the one-way flow path 541, the one end side connecting flow path 543 (see Fig.11 ), the reverse flow path 542, and the other end side connecting flow path 544 move.

[0254] In other words, the developer transported by the one-way transport member 521 and the reverse transport member 522 circulates while moving along the circumference of the annular wall portion 550 .

[0255] In the present embodiment, the developer conveyed by the one-way conveying member 521 moves toward the one end portion 541A of the one-way flow path 541 .

[0256] Then, the developer reaching the one end portion 541A is squeezed by the developer sequentially conveyed from the upstream side to the one end portion 541A by the one-way conveying member 521, and is connected to the flow path 543 (see FIG. 1 ). Fig.11 Then, the developer moves toward the reverse flow path 542 through the connecting flow path 543 on the one end side.

[0257] The developer moving toward the reverse flow path 542 passes through the reverse conveying member 522 and moves toward the reverse flow path 542 (see Fig.10 )'s other end 542B moves.

[0258] Then, the developer reaching the other end portion 542B of the reverse flow path 542 is pressed by the developer sequentially conveyed from the upstream side to the other end portion 542B by the reverse conveying member 522 , and moves toward the other end side connecting flow path 544 .

[0259] Then, the developer moves toward the one-way flow path 541 through the other end side connecting flow path 544 .

[0260] Thus, in the present embodiment, the developer moves around the annular wall portion 550 , and the developer circulates.

[0261] The annular wall portion 550 is composed of four wall portions.

[0262] The annular wall portion 550 is provided with two axial wall portions 551 arranged along the axial directions of the one-way transport member 521 and the reverse transport member 522 and facing each other.

[0263] Furthermore, if Fig.11 As shown, an end side wall portion 552 is provided on the annular wall portion 550 , which is located at one end in the length direction of the annular wall portion 550 and connects the two axial wall portions 551 to each other.

[0264] Furthermore, if Fig.10 As shown, the annular wall portion 550 is provided with another end side wall portion 553 , which is located at the other end in the length direction of the annular wall portion 550 and connects the two axial wall portions 551 to each other.

[0265] Furthermore, if Fig.11 As shown, an opening 507 through which the gas flow path 530 passes is provided at one end 500A of the developer storage portion 500. The gas from the developing device 14 and the gas flow path 530 moves diagonally downward and rightward in the figure through the opening 507.

[0266] Furthermore, in this embodiment, if Fig.10 As shown, a wall portion 519 extending upward is provided above one side wall 518A extending along the longitudinal direction of the lower container 518 among the four side walls of the lower container 518 .

[0267] The wall portion 519 is provided in a manner extending along the longitudinal direction of the lower container 518 .

[0268] The wall portion 519 is provided with an opening 505 for discharging the gas flowing from the developing device 14 . A plurality of openings 505 are provided. The plurality of openings 505 are arranged in a row in the longitudinal direction of the lower container 518 .

[0269] In this embodiment, the gas passes through the gas flow path 530 (see Fig.11 )The gas passing through is discharged from the opening 505 to the outside of the supply device 70.

[0270] In this embodiment, the gas passes through the gas flow path 530 (see Fig.11 ) of the gas, and then, as shown by arrow 11A, enters the space located on the inner side of the annular wall portion 550, namely, the inner space 556 of the wall portion.

[0271] Then, the gas passes through the inner space 556 of the wall portion and flows toward the developer storage portion 500 (see Fig.10 ) moves to the other end 500B side.

[0272] Afterwards, if Fig.10 As shown by arrow 10E in FIG. 5 , the gas moves toward the one-way flow path 541 .

[0273] Next, as shown by arrow 10F, the gas moves along the wall portion 519 and moves toward the opening 505 formed in the wall portion 519. Then, the gas moves to the outside of the supply device 70 through the opening 505.

[0274] like Fig.11 As shown, the filling portion 511 as described above is provided at one end portion 500A of the developer accumulating portion 500 .

[0275] In the present embodiment, a central conveying member 526 is further provided to pass through the filling portion 511. The central conveying member 526 is provided at the center of the lower container 518 in the width direction of the lower container 518.

[0276] The central conveying member 526 is disposed between the one-way conveying member 521 and the reverse conveying member 522. In addition, the central conveying member 526 is provided along the longitudinal direction of the lower container 518.

[0277] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, a driving source (not shown) such as a motor for driving the center transport member 526 is provided.

[0278] The central transport member 526 includes a rod-shaped rotating shaft 526A and a protruding portion 526B which is disposed around the rotating shaft 526A and is provided in a spiral shape and protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the rotating shaft 526A.

[0279] In this embodiment, the central transport member 526 is rotated about the rotation shaft 526A by the driving source, thereby squeezing the developer by the protrusion 526B, and the developer moves in the axial direction of the central transport member 526 .

[0280] In the present embodiment, the developer in the lower container 518 and the developer in the one end side connecting flow path 543 are sent to the filling portion 511 by the central transport member 526 .

[0281] The developer conveyed by the one-way conveying member 521 is accumulated in the one end side connecting flow path 543 .

[0282] The one end side connecting flow path 543 passes through a space 94 (hereinafter referred to as “pre-filling space 94 ”) located between the filling portion 511 and the one end side wall portion 552 , and the developer conveyed by the one-way conveying member 521 is accumulated in the pre-filling space 94 .

[0283] In the present embodiment, the developer accumulated in the pre-filling space 94 is pressed into the filling portion 511 by the central transport member 526 .

[0284] Thus, after the developer is filled in the filling portion 511 , the developer is conveyed toward the downstream side.

[0285] The developer having passed through the filling portion 511 passes through the lateral flow path 513 (see Fig. 9 (B)) and the up-down direction flow path 514 move toward the developing device 14.

[0286] like Fig.10 As shown, the central conveying member 526 is provided from one end to the other end in the length direction of the lower container 518 .

[0287] The central transport member 526 is provided so as to pass through the annular wall portion 550. In other words, the central transport member 526 is provided so as to have a part thereof located in the space 556 within the wall portion.

[0288] like Fig.11 As shown, a groove 552A is formed in the side wall portion 552 at one end of the annular wall portion 550 , and the central transport member 526 passes through the groove 552A.

[0289] In the present embodiment, since the one end side wall portion 552 is provided, it is possible to suppress the developer in the pre-filling space 94 from entering the wall inner space 556 .

[0290] In addition, in this embodiment, if Fig.10 As shown, an opening 553A is provided in the side wall portion 553 at the other end of the annular wall portion 550 , and in the present embodiment, the central transport member 526 is configured to pass through the opening 553A.

[0291] In the present embodiment, since the other end side wall portion 553 is provided, it is possible to suppress the developer in the other end side connecting flow path 544 from entering the wall portion inner space 556 .

[0292] Fig.12 This is a diagram showing a state in which the upper component 561 is attached to the upper portion of the lower container 518 .

[0293] In the supply device 70 , an upper member 561 is attached to the upper portion of the lower container 518 .

[0294] The upper member 561 includes a blocking portion 562 extending in the horizontal direction and blocking the opening 518X located in the upper portion of the lower container 518 , and a wall portion 563 connected to the blocking portion 562 and extending upward.

[0295] The wall portion 563 is provided so as to face the wall portion 519 provided on the lower container 518. A gap is provided between the wall portion 563 provided on the upper member 561 and the wall portion 519 provided on the lower container 518 for allowing gas to pass therethrough.

[0296] In other words, a space for allowing gas to pass is provided between the wall portion 563 provided on the upper member 561 and the wall portion 519 provided on the lower container 518 (described later).

[0297] like Fig.12 As shown by arrow 12A in FIG. 1 , the developer is passed through the developer accumulation section 500 (see FIG. 1 ). Fig.11 ) passes through the gap between the lower container 518 and the upper member 561 and moves toward the other end 500B side of the developer accumulating portion 500.

[0298] Gas flow path 530 (see Fig.11 ) is arranged between the lower container 518 and the upper part 561.

[0299] The gas having passed through the opening 507 moves toward the other end portion 500B of the developer storage portion 500 as indicated by arrow 12A through the gas flow path 530 between the lower container 518 and the upper member 561 .

[0300] Then, the gas passing through the gas flow path 530 is as follows: Fig.11 As shown by arrow 11A in FIG. 1 , the developer enters the wall inner space 556 , passes through the wall inner space 556 , and moves toward the other end portion 500B side of the developer accumulating portion 500 .

[0301] After that, the gas passes through the upper part 561 (refer to Fig.12 ) in the recess 561C on the lower surface and moves toward the one-way flow path 541.

[0302] Then, the gas passes through the top of the one-way flow path 541 and moves to the space between the wall portion 563 and the wall portion 519 .

[0303] Then, the gas moves upward through the space and passes through the opening 505 formed in the wall portion 519 (see Fig.10 ) and moves to the outside of the supply device 70.

[0304] Fig.13 yes Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the supply device 70 at the line XIII-XIII in FIG. Fig.13 In, omitted Figure 7 An illustration of the developer storage container 80 is shown in FIG.

[0305] Reference Fig.13 The flow of gas in the supply device 70 will be further described.

[0306] In this embodiment, from the developing device 14 ( Fig.13 The gas (not shown) entering the supply device 70 first moves upward through the up-down direction flow path 514 constituting a part of the developer flow path 510.

[0307] Thereafter, the gas passes through the gas flow path 530 provided in a manner branched from the developer flow path 510 , and moves toward the other end portion 72 side of the supply device 70 .

[0308] The gas flow path 530 is connected to the space inside the supply device 70 again at the position indicated by the reference numeral 13A. Specifically, the gas flow path 530 is connected to the annular wall portion 550 ( Fig.13 The inner wall space 556 is connected to the inner wall space 556 (not shown in the figure).

[0309] In the present embodiment, the gas that has passed through the gas flow path 530 is supplied to the wall inner space 556 in the space inside the supply device 70 .

[0310] The wall inner space 556 is a space that is not located on the developer flow path 510 but is located at a position away from the developer flow path 510. The gas flow path 530 is connected to a portion of the internal space of the supply device 70 that is not the developer flow path 510.

[0311] The gas entering the wall inner space 556 then passes through the upper member 561 (see Fig.12 ) in the recess 561C on the lower surface and moves toward the one-way flow path 541.

[0312] Then, the gas passes through the upper portion of the one-way flow path 541 and moves to the space between the wall portion 563 and the wall portion 519 .

[0313] Then, the gas moves upward through the space, and then passes through the opening 505 formed in the wall portion 519 (see Fig.10 ).

[0314] Fig.14 FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the supply device 70 taken along a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the developer storage container 80. Fig.14 In FIG. 8 , the developer storage container 80 is indicated by a dotted line.

[0315] The supply device 70 is provided with a protrusion 76 which extends obliquely upward and has a hollow interior. In the present embodiment, the protrusion 76 is provided with the opening 505 described above.

[0316] In the present embodiment, the protruding portion 76 is formed by the wall portion 519 provided on the lower container 518 and the wall portion 563 provided on the upper member 561. The wall portion 563 and the wall portion 519 are arranged so as to protrude upward and face each other.

[0317] In the present embodiment, a portion of the upwardly extending protruding portion 76 is located beside the developer storage container 80 .

[0318] The protruding portion 76 has an opposing surface 761 opposing the developer storage container 80 and an opposing surface 762 located on the opposite side to the opposing surface 761 .

[0319] In this embodiment, the opening 505 is provided on the opposite surface 762 of the protrusion 76, which is opposite to the opposite surface 761 facing the developer container 80. As described above, the filter 506 is provided at a position facing the opening 505.

[0320] In this embodiment, if Fig.14 As shown, as described above, the supply device 70 is provided with a receiving port 79A for receiving the developer from the developer storage container 80. The supply device 70 is also provided with a discharge port 74 for discharging the developer.

[0321] The opening 505 provided in the protruding portion 76 is provided above the receiving port 79A. Furthermore, the opening 505 is provided above the discharge port 74 provided below the receiving port 79A.

[0322] Furthermore, the opening 505 is provided at a location away from the developer flow path 510 .

[0323] In this embodiment, a developer flow path 510 is provided in the developer storage portion 500. Fig.14 A developer flow path 510 is also provided on the downstream side of the filling portion 511 (not shown).

[0324] The opening 505 is provided at a location away from the developer flow path 510 .

[0325] Furthermore, the opening 505 is provided above the uppermost portion of the developer flow path 510 .

[0326] In this embodiment, the developer storage section 500 is provided with a one-way flow path 541, a reverse flow path 542, a developer flow path 510 passing through a filling portion 511, and a lateral flow path 513 ( Fig.14 The portion (not shown in the figure) is the uppermost portion of the developer flow path 510.

[0327] The opening 505 is located above the uppermost portion.

[0328] The opening 505 provided in the protruding portion 76 is an opening 505 that allows the inside and the outside of the supply device 70 to communicate with each other.

[0329] The supply device 70 is provided with an opening 505 that allows the inside and outside of the supply device 70 to communicate with each other, separately from the receiving port 79A and the discharge port 74 .

[0330] The gas flowing from the developing device 14 passes through the opening 505 and is discharged to the outside to the supply device 70 .

[0331] Fig.15 2 is a diagram showing the flow of gas when the supply device 70 is viewed from above. Fig.15 In the figure, the upper part 561 and the like are omitted.

[0332] The gas flowing from the developing device 14 enters the supply device 70 through the exhaust port 74 provided in the supply device 70. The gas entering the supply device 70 passes through the vertical flow path 514 and then enters the gas flow path 530.

[0333] Then, the gas passes through the gas flow path 530 and moves toward the wall inner space 556. Then, the gas passes through the wall inner space 556 and moves toward the other end portion 72 side of the supply device 70.

[0334] In the wall inner space 556 , since the developer is not conveyed, the amount of the developer is small.

[0335] Next, the gas moves from the wall inner space 556 toward the one-way flow path 541. More specifically, the gas moves toward a portion of the one-way flow path 541 other than the one end portion 541A.

[0336] The gas moving from the wall inner space 556 toward the one-way flow path 541 moves toward a portion of the one-way flow path 541 located upstream of the one end 521A. The “upstream side” refers to the upstream side of the one-way flow path 541 in the moving direction of the developer.

[0337] In this embodiment, if Fig.12 As shown in FIG. 5 , a recess 561C is provided on the lower surface of the upper member 561. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. Fig.15 As shown, a connecting flow path 594 that connects the wall inner space 556 and the one-way flow path 541 is provided at the location where the recessed portion 561C is provided.

[0338] like Fig.15 As shown, the connecting flow path 594 is connected to the central portion 541C in the longitudinal direction of the one-way flow path 541.

[0339] In addition, if Fig.15 As shown, the connection flow path 594 is also connected to the other end side portion 541T which is a portion of the one-way flow path 541 located closer to the other end 541B than the central portion 541C.

[0340] Therefore, in this embodiment, when the gas passing through the wall inner space 556 moves toward the one-way flow path 541, Fig.15 As shown, it moves toward the central portion 541C in the longitudinal direction of the one-way flow channel 541 and the other end side portion 541T of the one-way flow channel 541.

[0341] Then, the gas passes through the protrusion 76 (see Fig.14 ) moves toward the opening 505 provided on the protrusion 76.

[0342] The developer conveyed by the one-way conveying member 521 is accumulated in the one-way flow path 541 (see Fig.15 ) at one end 541A, at which the height of the upper surface of the developer becomes larger.

[0343] In this case, when the gas in the wall inner space 556 is caused to pass above the one end portion 541A and move toward the opening 505 , it is difficult for the gas to pass through the upper portion.

[0344] In contrast, in this embodiment, the gas passes above the longitudinal center portion 541C of the one-way flow path 541 and above the other end portion 541T of the one-way flow path 541. In this case, the gas passes through a lower portion of the upper surface of the developer, and the gas flows easily.

[0345] A central conveying component 526 is also provided in the wall inner space 556 .

[0346] The central transport member 526 , which is an example of a moving member, moves the developer accumulated in the wall inner space 556 .

[0347] In the present embodiment, the gas from the gas flow path 530 is supplied into the wall inner space 556 , and the developer contained in the gas is accumulated in the wall inner space 556 .

[0348] In the present embodiment, a central transport member 526 for moving the developer accumulated in the wall inner space 556 is provided in the wall inner space 556 .

[0349] The developer accumulated in the wall inner space 556 is conveyed to the pre-filling space 94 by the central conveying member 526 . In this case, the developer in the wall inner space 556 is discharged from the wall inner space 556 .

[0350] Reference Fig. 9 (B) describes the central transport component 526.

[0351] The central conveying member 526 includes a cylindrical inner portion 526E located inside the cylindrical portion 512 and an outer portion 526F located downstream of the cylindrical inner portion 526E in the developer conveying direction and outside the cylindrical portion 512. The outer portion 526F is located inside the lateral flow path 513 constituting a part of the developer flow path 510.

[0352] In the present embodiment, the developer conveying capability of the outer portion 526F is greater than the developer conveying capability of the cylindrical inner portion 526E.

[0353] In the present embodiment, the outer diameter of the protrusion 526B provided in the outer portion 526F is larger than the outer diameter of the protrusion 526B provided in the cylindrical portion inner portion 526E.

[0354] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the pitch of the protrusions 526B provided in the outer portion 526F is larger than the pitch of the protrusions 526B provided in the cylindrical portion inner portion 526E.

[0355] In this specification, the “pitch” refers to the distance between the protrusions 526B that are in a relationship of being adjacent to each other.

[0356] In the present embodiment, the developer conveying speed in the lateral flow path 513 is higher than the developer conveying speed in the cylindrical portion 512 .

[0357] In this case, the height of the upper surface of the developer located in the lateral flow path 513 is smaller than the height of the upper surface of the developer located in the cylindrical portion 512 .

[0358] When the height of the upper surface of the developer in the lateral flow path 513 is smaller than the height of the upper surface of the developer in the cylindrical portion 512, the height of the upper surface of the developer below the gas flow path 530 becomes smaller than when it is not smaller.

[0359] In this case, it is difficult for the developer located below the gas flow path 530 to enter the gas flow path 530 , and the cross-sectional area of ​​the gas flow path 530 increases.

[0360] When the height of the upper surface of the developer in the lateral flow path 513 is smaller than the height of the upper surface of the developer in the cylindrical portion 512 , the gas flows more easily in the vertical flow path 514 than when it is not smaller.

[0361] When the height of the upper surface of the developer in the lateral flow path 513 is smaller than the height of the upper surface of the developer in the cylindrical portion 512, the area occupied by the developer in the cross section of the vertical flow path 514 is reduced compared to the case where it is not smaller.

[0362] In this case, the gas moving upward through the up-down direction flow path 514 can flow easily.

[0363] Reference Fig. 9 (B) further illustrates the structure around the gas flow path 530.

[0364] In the present embodiment, in the moving direction of the gas in the gas flow path 530 , the upstream end 530C of the gas flow path 530 is located upstream of the downstream end 514C of the up-down direction flow path 514 .

[0365] The gas flow path 530 has an upstream end 530C, which is an end located most upstream in the moving direction of the gas in the gas flow path 530 , at the right end in the figure.

[0366] Furthermore, the up-down direction flow path 514 has an upstream end 514D and a downstream end 514C whose positions in the moving direction of the gas in the gas flow path 530 are different from each other.

[0367] The upstream end portion 514D and the downstream end portion 514C of the vertical flow passage 514 are located at different positions in the radial direction of the vertical flow passage 514 .

[0368] In the present embodiment, when comparing the positions of the gas flow path 530 in the gas moving direction, the upstream end 530C of the gas flow path 530 is located upstream of the downstream end 514C of the vertical flow path 514. Fig. 9 In (B), the moving direction of the gas in the gas flow path 530 is Fig. 9 (B) in the right-to-left direction.

[0369] When the upstream end 530C is located on the upstream side of the downstream end 514C, the gas flows more easily than when the upstream end 530C is located on the downstream side of the downstream end 514C.

[0370] For example, it is assumed that the upstream end 530C of the gas flow path 530 is located at a position denoted by reference numeral 9X, and the upstream end 530C is located downstream of the downstream end 514C of the vertical flow path 514 .

[0371] In this case, the flow path for the gas flow becomes narrow, making it difficult for the gas to flow.

[0372] On the other hand, as described above, when the upstream end 530C of the gas flow path 530 is located upstream of the downstream end 514C of the vertical flow path 514, the flow path for gas flow becomes wider, and the gas flows more easily.

[0373] Fig.16 It is a diagram showing another configuration example of the supply device 70 .

[0374] exist Fig.16 In the illustrated configuration example, the gas flow path 530 is provided with a moving member 800 for moving the developer accumulated in the gas flow path 530 .

[0375] The moving member 800 is composed of a rotating shaft 801 that is rotated by a driving source (not shown) such as a motor, and a protruding portion 802 that protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the rotating shaft 801 and is provided in a spiral shape.

[0376] The gas passing through the gas flow path 530 contains a developer, and the developer is accumulated in the gas flow path 530 .

[0377] exist Fig.16 In the illustrated configuration example, the moving member 800 rotates to move the developer to the right in the figure. The developer moved to the right by the moving member 800 falls downward and is supplied to the lateral flow path 513 located below.

[0378] Refer again Fig.11 The structure of the one end portion 500A of the developer accumulating portion 500 will be further described.

[0379] In this embodiment, if Fig.11 As shown in FIG. 1 , a restriction portion 95 for restricting upward movement of the developer in the one-way flow path 541 is provided above one end portion 541A of the one-way flow path 541. The restriction portion 95 is composed of a plate-shaped member.

[0380] The developer is accumulated at the one end portion 541A of the one-way flow path 541 , and accordingly, the height of the upper surface of the developer in the one end portion 541A and the pre-filling space 94 increases.

[0381] In this case, the developer enters the gas flow path 530 located above the pre-filling space 94 , and there is a possibility that the gas will not flow easily in the gas flow path 530 .

[0382] On the other hand, if the restricting portion 95 is provided, the upper surface of the developer filling the front space 94 is less likely to rise upward. In this case, the developer is prevented from entering the gas flow path 530, and the gas easily flows in the gas flow path 530.

[0383] The restricting portion 95 may be provided not only above the one end portion 541A of the one-way flow path 541 but also above the pre-filling space 94 . In this case, the gas flow path 530 is provided above the restricting portion 95 .

[0384] [Second embodiment]

[0385] Fig.17 This is a diagram for explaining a supply device 70 in the second embodiment.

[0386] Below, with Figure 7 to Figure 16 The embodiment shown, that is, the first embodiment, will be described mainly with different parts therefrom.

[0387] exist Fig.17 In the supply device 70 shown in FIG. 1 , the filling portion 511 is located on the other end portion 72 side of the supply device 70 . In other words, the filling portion 511 is located on the front side of the image forming apparatus 100 .

[0388] Furthermore, in the supply device 70 , an intermediate flow path 581 constituting a part of the developer flow path 510 is provided below the developer accumulating portion 500 , and further, a lower flow path 582 constituting another part of the developer flow path 510 is provided below the intermediate flow path 581 .

[0389] An intermediate conveying member 631 for conveying the developer in the intermediate flow path 581 is provided in the intermediate flow path 581. A lower conveying member 632 for conveying the developer in the lower flow path 582 is provided in the lower flow path 582.

[0390] The intermediate conveying member 631 and the lower conveying member 632 are respectively composed of a rotating shaft 633A and a protruding portion 633B which protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the rotating shaft 633A and is provided in a spiral shape.

[0391] Furthermore, the supply device 70 is provided with a driving source (not shown) for rotationally driving the intermediate conveying member 631 and the lower conveying member 632 .

[0392] In the second embodiment, the developer having passed through the filling portion 511 passes through the intermediate flow path 581 located below the developer accumulating portion 500 , and moves toward the lower flow path 582 located below the intermediate flow path 581 .

[0393] Then, the developer passes through the lower flow path 582 and moves toward one end portion 582A of the lower flow path 582 .

[0394] Thereafter, the developer moves toward the discharge port 74 through the up-down direction flow path 514 extending downward from the one end portion 582A of the lower flow path 582 .

[0395] In the second embodiment, a gas flow path 530 is provided at a location indicated by reference numeral 17A in the figure.

[0396] The gas flow path 530 is provided in a manner branched from the developer flow path 510 in the same manner as described above.

[0397] Specifically, the gas flow path 530 is provided in a form branched from the intermediate flow path 581. The gas flow path 530 extends from a branching portion branched from the intermediate flow path 581 toward the developer storage portion 500 located above.

[0398] In the second embodiment, the gas flow path 530 is provided so as to extend in the vertical direction. The gas flow path 530 has a portion extending in the vertical direction.

[0399] In the second embodiment, the gas entering the supply device 70 from the discharge port 74 of the supply device 70 passes through the downstream side portion 586 of the developer flow path 510 and moves toward the upstream side in the moving direction of the developer.

[0400] Here, the “downstream side portion 586 ” refers to a portion of the developer flow path 510 , and is a portion located downstream of the filling portion 511 in the moving direction of the developer moving in the developer flow path 510 .

[0401] In the second embodiment, the downstream portion 586 is composed of the intermediate flow path 581 , the lower flow path 582 , and the up-down direction flow path 514 .

[0402] The gas that has entered the supply device 70 from the discharge port 74 of the supply device 70 passes through the downstream side portion 586 and moves toward the upstream side in the moving direction of the developer.

[0403] Thereafter, the gas enters the gas flow path 530 provided in a manner branching from the downstream side portion 586 and moves upward.

[0404] More specifically, the gas enters the gas flow path 530 provided so as to branch from the intermediate flow path 581 constituting a part of the downstream side portion 586 and moves upward.

[0405] Then, the gas enters a wall inner space 556 provided in the developer accumulating portion 500 .

[0406] In the second embodiment, the conveyance capacity of the developer in the downstream side portion 586 is greater than the conveyance capacity of the developer in the filling portion 511 .

[0407] Specifically, in the second embodiment, the developer conveying capabilities of the intermediate conveying member 631 and the lower conveying member 632 are greater than the developer conveying capabilities of the central conveying member 526 passing through the filling portion 511 .

[0408] In the second embodiment, the outer diameters of the protrusions 633B provided on the intermediate conveying member 631 and the lower conveying member 632 are larger than the outer diameters of the protrusions 526B provided on the portion of the central conveying member 526 located in the filling portion 511 .

[0409] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the pitch of the protrusions 633B provided on the intermediate conveying member 631 and the lower conveying member 632 is larger than the pitch of the protrusions 526B provided on the portion of the central conveying member 526 located in the filling portion 511 .

[0410] In the second embodiment, the moving speed of the developer moving in the downstream side portion 586 is greater than the moving speed of the developer moving in the filling portion 511 .

[0411] In other words, in the second embodiment, the moving speed of the developer moving in the intermediate flow path 581 and the lower flow path 582 is greater than the moving speed of the developer moving in the filling portion 511 .

[0412] Thus, in the second embodiment, the height of the upper surface of the developer is reduced in the downstream portion 586. Thus, the gas passing through the downstream portion 586 and moving toward the upstream side can flow easily. In the cross section of the downstream portion 586, the developer is not filled throughout the entire cross section.

[0413] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the developer conveying capability of the lower conveying member 632 is greater than the developer conveying capability of the intermediate conveying member 631 .

[0414] More specifically, in the second embodiment, the outer diameter of the protrusion 633B provided on the lower conveying member 632 is larger than the outer diameter of the protrusion 633B provided on the intermediate conveying member 631 .

[0415] In the second embodiment, the pitch of the protrusions 633B provided on the lower conveying member 632 is larger than the pitch of the protrusions 633B provided on the intermediate conveying member 631 .

[0416] In this case, the moving speed of the developer moving in the lower flow path 582 is greater than the moving speed of the developer moving in the intermediate flow path 581. In this case, the height of the upper surface of the developer is further reduced in the lower flow path 582. In this case, the gas moving toward the upstream side through the lower flow path 582 flows more easily.

[0417] In the second embodiment, the developer moving in the lower flow path 582 moves faster than the developer moving in the intermediate flow path 581 , and the developer moving in the intermediate flow path 581 moves faster than the developer moving in the filling portion 511 .

[0418] In addition to this, the rotation speed of the intermediate conveying member 631 and the lower conveying member 632 may be made greater than the rotation speed of the central conveying member 526 .

[0419] In addition, the rotation speed of the lower conveying member 632 may be greater than the rotation speed of the intermediate conveying member 631 .

[0420] In addition, the rotation speed of the lower transport member 632 may be higher than the rotation speed of the intermediate transport member 631 , and the rotation speed of the intermediate transport member 631 may be higher than the rotation speed of the central transport member 526 .

[0421] In the present embodiment, the gas entering the supply device 70 passes through the developer flow path 510 , moves toward the upstream side in the developer moving direction, and then enters the gas flow path 530 provided in a form branching from the developer flow path 510 .

[0422] More specifically, the gas entering the supply device 70 moves toward the upstream side in the moving direction of the developer through the downstream portion 586 of the developer flow path 510 , and then enters the gas flow path 530 branched from the downstream portion 586 .

[0423] Afterwards, the gas passes through the inner space 556 of the wall toward the opening 505 ( Fig.17 (not shown) movement.

[0424] In addition, the description is omitted in the above, but Fig. 9 The gas entering the supply device 70 from the discharge port 74 of the supply device 70 in the first embodiment shown in (B) also passes through the downstream side portion 586 of the developer flow path 510 and moves toward the upstream side in the moving direction of the developer.

[0425] exist Fig. 9 In the first embodiment shown in (B), the downstream side portion 586 is composed of the lateral flow path 513 and the up-down direction flow path 514 .

[0426] exist Fig. 9 In the first embodiment shown in (B), the gas entering the supply device 70 from the discharge port 74 of the supply device 70 also passes through the downstream side portion 586 and moves toward the upstream side in the moving direction of the developer.

[0427] Then, the gas enters the gas flow path 530 provided in a manner branching from the downstream side portion 586, and moves to the left in the figure.

[0428] Furthermore, as described above, the gas passes through the inner space 556 of the wall (at Fig. 9 (B) (not shown), the one-way flow path 541, and the space within the protrusion 76 move toward the opening 505.

[0429] exist Fig. 9 In the first embodiment shown in (B), the portion of the central transport member 526 located at the downstream side portion 586 has a greater ability to transport the developer than the portion of the central transport member 526 located at the filling portion 511 .

[0430] In other words, Fig. 9 In the first embodiment shown in (B) of FIG. 5 , the moving speed of the developer in the downstream side portion 586 is greater than the moving speed of the developer in the filling portion 511 .

[0431] In this case, the height of the upper surface of the developer becomes low in the lateral flow path 513 constituting a part of the downstream side portion 586. In this case, the cross-sectional area of ​​the gas flow path 530 located above the lateral flow path 513 becomes large.

[0432] In the cross section of the lateral flow path 513 constituting a part of the downstream side portion 586 , the developer is not filled throughout the entire cross section.

[0433] When the moving speed of the developer in the downstream portion 586 is greater than the moving speed of the developer in the filling portion 511, the area occupied by the developer in the cross section of the vertical flow path 514 becomes smaller in the vertical flow path 514 constituting the other part of the downstream portion 586. In this case, the gas flows easily in the vertical flow path 514.

[0434] Fig.18 Yes means Fig.17 FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a cross section of the lower flow path 582 at the line XVIII-XVIII in FIG. 5 . In other words, Fig.18 It is a diagram showing a cross section of a downstream side portion 586 of the developer flow path 510 .

[0435] like Fig.18 As shown in FIG. 1 , a lower conveying member 632 as an example of a moving member is provided on the lower flow path 582. The lower conveying member 632 rotates around a rotation axis 633A along the lower flow path 582 to move the developer in the lower flow path 582 toward the downstream side.

[0436] In this embodiment, if Fig.18 As shown, the cross-sectional shape of the lower flow path 582 is non-circular.

[0437] like Fig.17 As shown, the lower flow path 582 extends in the lateral direction. In other words, the lower flow path 582 extends in the horizontal direction.

[0438] In the cross section of the lower flow path 582 extending in the lateral direction, as shown in FIG. Fig.18 As shown, an upper left portion 582G located at the upper left in the figure among the outer peripheral edge 582F of the lower flow path 582 protrudes in a direction away from the rotation axis 633A of the lower conveying member 632 .

[0439] In this way, when the protruding portion is provided, it is easier to ensure the passage of the gas, and the gas can easily move in the lower flow path 582, compared with the case where the protruding portion is not provided.

[0440] Furthermore, the upper left portion 582G located on the upper left of the outer peripheral edge 582F of the lower flow path 582 may be configured to protrude in a direction away from the rotation axis 633A. The upper right portion 582H located on the upper right may be configured to protrude in a direction away from the rotation axis 633A.

[0441] In addition to this, both the upper left portion 582G and the upper right portion 582H may be made to protrude in a direction away from the rotation axis 633A of the lower conveying member 632 .

[0442] Fig.19 This is a diagram when the developer accumulating portion 500 according to the second embodiment is viewed from above.

[0443] In the second embodiment, the gas flow path 530 is connected to the bottom 556A of the wall inner space 556. The bottom 556A is provided with an opening 556B for connecting the wall inner space 556 and the gas flow path 530.

[0444] The gas from the gas flow path 530 is supplied into the wall inner space 556 from the bottom 556A of the wall inner space 556 .

[0445] Then, similarly to the above, the gas entering the wall inner space 556 passes through the upper side of the one-way flow path 541 and flows toward the protrusion 76 ( Fig.19 Movement in the internal space of the device (not shown).

[0446] Then, similarly to the above, after passing through the space, the gas is discharged to the outside of the supply device 70 from the opening 505 provided on the side of the protruding portion 76 .

[0447] Fig. 20 yes Fig.17 A cross-sectional view of the supply device 70 at the line XX-XX in FIG. Fig. 20 , an end portion 71 of the supply device 70 (see Fig.17 ) when observing the supply device 70 from the side.

[0448] In a second embodiment, if Fig. 20 As shown in FIG. 1 , a developer flow path 510 through which the developer from the developer container 80 passes is also provided below the developer container 80 .

[0449] In the second embodiment, a portion of the developer flow path 510 is located away from directly below the developer container 80. Specifically, a portion of the one-way flow path 541 indicated by reference numeral 20A is located away from directly below the developer container 80.

[0450] Furthermore, in this structural example, a protrusion 76 extending upward is provided above the one-way flow path 541 , a portion of which is located away from the portion immediately below the developer storage container 80 .

[0451] and Figure 7 to Figure 16 Similarly to the first embodiment shown in FIG, the space inside the protrusion 76 shown in the second embodiment is connected to the one-way flow path 541.

[0452] In the second embodiment, a protrusion 76 extending upward is provided above a portion of the developer flow path 510 that is located away from directly below the developer storage container 80 .

[0453] In the present embodiment, the portion is a portion of the one-way flow path 541 that is away from the portion directly below the developer storage container 80 .

[0454] As described above, the interior of the protrusion 76 forms a cavity, and there is a space for gas to pass through the interior of the protrusion 76 .

[0455] The gas that has passed through the gas flow path 530 and the wall inner space 556 and reached the upper side of the one-way flow path 541 moves toward the opening 505 provided on the side of the protrusion 76 through the space inside the protrusion 76. Then, the gas is discharged from the opening 505 to the outside of the supply device 70.

[0456] The opening 505 provided in the protruding portion 76 is provided on the opposite surface 762 of the protruding portion 76 on the opposite side to the opposite surface 761 facing the developer storage container 80 , in the same manner as described above.

[0457] (Note) (((1)))

[0459] An image forming device comprising:

[0460] Like holding body;

[0461] a developing device that causes a developer to adhere to the image holding body; and

[0462] A supply device, which supplies developer to the developing device, comprises a developer flow path and a gas flow path, wherein the developer flow path is for passing the developer toward the developing device, and the gas flow path is a flow path which is separately arranged from the developer flow path and for passing the gas flowing from the developing device to the supply device. (((2)))

[0464] The image forming apparatus according to (((1))), wherein:

[0465] The gas flow path is provided in a form branched from the developer flow path, and is connected to a space inside the supply device at a location different from a branching location branching from the developer supply path. (((3)))

[0467] An image forming apparatus according to (((2))), wherein:

[0468] The developer flow path includes a filling portion in which the entire cross section of the developer flow path is filled with the developer.

[0469] The gas flow path branches from the developer flow path on the downstream side of the filling portion in the developer movement direction, and is connected to the internal space of the supply device on the upstream side of the filling portion. (((4)))

[0471] The image forming apparatus according to (((2))) or (((3))), wherein:

[0472] The gas flow path is connected to a portion of the internal space that is not the developer flow path. (((5)))

[0474] An image forming apparatus according to (((4))), wherein:

[0475] The portion that is not the developer flow path is provided with a moving member that moves the developer accumulated in the portion. (((6)))

[0477] The image forming apparatus according to any one of (((1))) to (((5))), wherein:

[0478] The gas flow path includes a portion extending in a vertical direction. (((7)))

[0480] The image forming apparatus according to any one of (((1))) to (((6))), wherein:

[0481] The gas flow path includes a portion extending in the lateral direction, and a bottom surface of the portion extending in the lateral direction is provided with an inclination with respect to a horizontal direction. (((8)))

[0483] The image forming apparatus according to any one of (((1))) to (((7))), wherein:

[0484] The gas flow path is provided with a moving member for moving the developer accumulated in the gas flow path. (((9)))

[0486] An image forming apparatus according to (((8))), wherein:

[0487] The developer moved by the moving member is supplied to the developer flow path. (((10)))

[0489] The image forming apparatus according to (((1))), wherein:

[0490] The developer flow path includes a filling portion, the filling portion being a portion filled with developer over the entire cross section of the developer flow path.

[0491] The gas flowing from the developing device to the supply device passes through the downstream portion of the developer flow path, which is located on the downstream side of the filling portion, toward the upstream side in the moving direction of the developer, and then enters the gas flow path provided in the form of a branch from the downstream portion.

[0492] In the cross section of the portion through which the gas passes in the downstream portion, the developer is not filled throughout the entire cross section. (((11)))

[0494] The image forming apparatus according to (((1))), wherein:

[0495] The developer flow path includes a filling portion, the filling portion being a portion filled with developer over the entire cross section of the developer flow path.

[0496] The gas flowing from the developing device to the supply device passes through the downstream portion of the developer flow path, which is located on the downstream side of the filling portion, toward the upstream side in the moving direction of the developer, and then enters the gas flow path provided in the form of a branch from the downstream portion.

[0497] The developer conveying capability at a portion of the downstream side portion through which the gas passes is greater than the developer conveying capability at the filling portion. (((12)))

[0499] The image forming apparatus according to any one of (((1))) to (((11))), wherein:

[0500] The gas flowing from the developing device to the supply device passes through the developer flow path toward the upstream side in the moving direction of the developer, and then enters the gas flow path provided in a form branched from the developer flow path.

[0501] A moving member is provided at a portion of the developer flow path through which the gas passes, and the moving member rotates around a rotation axis along the developer flow path to move the developer in the developer flow path toward the downstream side.

[0502] In the portion of the developer flow path through which the gas passes, a cross-sectional shape of the developer flow path is non-circular. (((13)))

[0504] An image forming apparatus according to (((12))), wherein:

[0505] The portion of the developer flow path through which the gas passes extends in a lateral direction,

[0506] In a cross section of the portion extending in the lateral direction, at least one of a portion located at an upper left side and a portion located at an upper right side of an outer peripheral edge of the portion protrudes in a direction away from the rotation axis of the moving member. (((14)))

[0508] The image forming apparatus according to any one of (((1))) to (((13))), wherein:

[0509] The supply device is provided with an opening for discharging the gas that has passed through the gas flow path. (((15)))

[0511] An image forming device according to (((14))), wherein:

[0512] The opening is provided at a location away from the developer flow path.

[0513] According to the image forming apparatus of (((1))), the gas flowing from the developing device to the supply device can flow more easily than in a structure in which the gas flowing from the developing device to the supply device moves only through the developer flow path provided in the supply device.

[0514] According to the image forming apparatus of (((2))), the gas having passed through the gas flow path can be returned to the inside of the supply device.

[0515] According to the image forming apparatus of (((3))), the gas flowing from the developing device to the supply device can be returned to the inside of the supply device after bypassing the filling portion of the supply device.

[0516] According to the image forming device of (((4))), compared with the case where the gas passing through the gas flow path returns to the space inside the supply device to the area where the developer flow path is provided, the gas passing through the gas flow path can be returned to the space inside the supply device to the area where the developer flow path is provided.

[0517] According to the image forming apparatus of (((5))), the developer accumulated in the portion connected to the gas flow path in the internal space of the supply device can be moved.

[0518] According to the image forming apparatus of (((6))), compared with a case where all parts of the gas flow path are arranged in the horizontal direction, accumulation of developer in the gas flow path can be suppressed.

[0519] According to the image forming apparatus of (((7))), compared with a case where the bottom surface of the portion extending in the lateral direction is not inclined with respect to the horizontal direction, the developer accumulated on the bottom surface can be reduced.

[0520] According to the image forming apparatus of (((8))), the developer accumulated in the gas flow path can be moved.

[0521] According to the image forming apparatus of (((9))), the developer accumulated in the gas flow path can be moved to the developer flow path through which the developer passes.

[0522] According to the image forming apparatus of (((10))), the gas can be moved more smoothly in the downstream portion, compared with a case where the entire cross section of the portion through which the gas passes in the downstream portion is filled with developer.

[0523] According to the image forming apparatus of (((11))), the gas can be moved more smoothly in the downstream portion compared to a case where the developer conveying capacity at the portion through which the gas passes in the downstream portion is smaller than the developer conveying capacity at the filling portion.

[0524] According to the image forming apparatus of (((12))), in the portion of the developer flow path through which the gas passes, the gas can be moved more smoothly than in a case where the cross-sectional shape of the developer flow path is circular.

[0525] According to the image forming apparatus of (((13))), in the portion of the developer flow path through which the gas passes, the gas can be moved more smoothly than in a case where the cross-sectional shape of the developer flow path is circular.

[0526] According to the image forming apparatus of (((14))), in the supply device, the gas flowing from the developing device to the supply device can be exhausted.

[0527] According to the image forming apparatus of (((15))), compared with a case where the opening is provided in the developer flow path, the developer reaching the opening can be reduced.

Claims

1. An image forming device, characterized in that: have: Like holding body; a developing device that causes a developer to adhere to the image holding body; and A supply device supplies developer to the developing device, comprising a developer flow path and a gas flow path, wherein the developer flow path is for the developer to pass toward the developing device, and the gas flow path is a flow path that is separately arranged from the developer flow path and for the gas flowing from the developing device to the supply device to pass.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The gas flow path is provided in a form branched from the developer flow path, and is connected to a space inside the supply device at a location different from a branching location branching from the developer supply path.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein: The developer flow path includes a filling portion in which the entire cross section of the developer flow path is filled with the developer. The gas flow path branches from the developer flow path on the downstream side of the filling portion in the developer movement direction, and is connected to the internal space of the supply device on the upstream side of the filling portion.

4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The gas flow path is connected to a portion of the internal space that is not the developer flow path.

5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein: The portion that is not the developer flow path is provided with a moving member that moves the developer accumulated in the portion.

6. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The gas flow path includes a portion extending in a vertical direction.

7. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The gas flow path includes a portion extending in the lateral direction, and a bottom surface of the portion extending in the lateral direction is provided with an inclination with respect to a horizontal direction.

8. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The gas flow path is provided with a moving member for moving the developer accumulated in the gas flow path.

9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein: The developer moved by the moving member is supplied to the developer flow path.

10. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The developer flow path includes a filling portion, the filling portion being a portion filled with developer over the entire cross section of the developer flow path. The gas flowing from the developing device to the supply device passes through the downstream portion of the developer flow path, which is located on the downstream side of the filling portion, toward the upstream side in the moving direction of the developer, and then enters the gas flow path provided in a form of branching from the downstream portion. In the cross section of the portion through which the gas passes in the downstream portion, the developer is not filled throughout the entire cross section.

11. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The developer flow path includes a filling portion, the filling portion being a portion filled with developer over the entire cross section of the developer flow path. The gas flowing from the developing device to the supply device passes through the downstream portion of the developer flow path, which is located on the downstream side of the filling portion, toward the upstream side in the moving direction of the developer, and then enters the gas flow path provided in a form of branching from the downstream portion. The developer conveying capability at a portion of the downstream side portion through which the gas passes is greater than the developer conveying capability at the filling portion.

12. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: The gas flowing from the developing device to the supply device passes through the developer flow path toward the upstream side in the moving direction of the developer, and then enters the gas flow path provided in a form branched from the developer flow path. A moving member is provided at a portion of the developer flow path through which the gas passes, and the moving member rotates around a rotation axis along the developer flow path to move the developer in the developer flow path toward the downstream side. In the portion of the developer flow path through which the gas passes, a cross-sectional shape of the developer flow path is non-circular.

13. The image forming apparatus according to claim 12, wherein: The portion of the developer flow path through which the gas passes extends in a lateral direction, In a cross section of the portion extending in the lateral direction, at least one of a portion located at an upper left side and a portion located at an upper right side of an outer peripheral edge of the portion protrudes in a direction away from the rotation axis of the moving member.

14. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein: The supply device is provided with an opening for discharging the gas that has passed through the gas flow path.

15. The image forming apparatus according to claim 14, wherein: The opening is provided at a location away from the developer flow path.

Images