Storage container and image forming system

Abstract

To provide a storage container and an image formation system with an improved operability that can store powders.SOLUTION: The storage container includes: a flexible pouch having a bottom part and a side part extending from the bottom part so that an opening is formed; and a communication member provided in a part of the side part that is on the inner side of the opening, the communication member having a communication part for making the inside and the outside of the pouch communicated with each other. The communication member has an opposed surface opposed to the bottom part and the side part has a formation part for forming a folding shape along an edge of the opposed surface.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a container for containing powder and an image forming system for forming an image on a recording material using the container. [Background technology]

[0002] Generally, electrophotographic image forming apparatuses form images by transferring a toner image formed on the surface of a photosensitive drum onto a transfer material as a transfer medium. Known methods for supplying developer include a process cartridge system and a toner supply system. The process cartridge system integrates the photosensitive drum and a developer container into a process cartridge, and when the developer runs out, the process cartridge is replaced with a new one.

[0003] On the other hand, the toner supply system is a system in which new toner is supplied to the developing container when the toner runs out. Conventionally, a single-component developing device of the toner supply system has been proposed in which a toner supply box capable of supplying toner is connected to a toner transport path through which the toner is transported (see Patent Document 1). The toner stored in the toner supply box is transported to the toner transport path by a transport screw. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 08-30084 [Patent Document 2] Patent application No. 2020-099728 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In recent years, users have been demanding various uses and configurations for toner supply containers for image forming devices. For example, a flexible toner storage container using a pouch has been proposed (see Patent Document 2).

[0006] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an embodiment of a container capable of containing powder and an image forming system that are more easily operable. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The storage container of the present invention is a storage container for storing powder, and comprises a flexible pouch having a bottom and a side portion extending from the bottom portion to form an opening, and a communication member provided on the inside of the side portion on the opening side and having a communication portion that communicates between the inside and outside of the pouch, The communication member has an opposing surface facing the bottom portion. and a welding portion welded to the inside of the side portion. The side portion has a fold forming portion that forms a fold shape along the edge portion of the opposing surface of the communication member. The welded portion includes a first welded portion extending outward from the edge portion in a first direction along which the fold of the folded shape extends, and a second welded portion extending outward from the edge portion in the first direction, and the first welded portion and the second welded portion are arranged on different sides of the communicating member in the first direction. It is characterized by:

[0008] The image forming system of the present invention further comprises: the above-mentioned container in which a developer is contained; an image forming apparatus including a mounting portion to which the storage container is mounted, The developer supplied from the storage container is used to perform an image forming operation. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an embodiment of a container capable of containing powder and an image forming system with further improved operability. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1A is a cross-sectional view showing an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment, and FIG. 1B is a perspective conceptual view showing the image forming apparatus. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a conceptual perspective view showing an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment in a state where a reading device is open; [Figure 3] 1A and 1B are exploded perspective conceptual views of a toner pack according to a first embodiment, viewed from different angles. [Figure 4]FIG. 1A is a perspective conceptual view showing a state in which the discharge port of the toner pack according to the first embodiment is covered; FIG. 1B is a perspective conceptual view showing a state in which the discharge port of the toner pack is open; [Figure 5] FIG. 1A is a perspective conceptual view showing a state immediately before a toner pack according to a first embodiment is attached to a supply port; FIG. 1B is a perspective conceptual view showing a state in which the toner pack has been attached to the supply port; [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a perspective conceptual view showing a method for discharging toner from a toner pack according to a first embodiment; [Figure 7] 1A to 1C are perspective conceptual views showing the toner pack according to the first embodiment in a replenished state from different viewpoints; FIG. 1D is a perspective conceptual view showing the toner pack in a state where the pouch is not visible; [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which the toner pack according to the first embodiment has been completely replenished; [Figure 9] 1A is a schematic side view showing the position of a fold formed on a side of a pouch of a toner pack according to a first embodiment; FIG. 1B is a schematic side view showing the pouch in a state where it is not visible; and FIG. 1C is a schematic perspective view showing the pouch in a state where it is not visible. [Figure 10] (a) A cross-sectional schematic diagram of a folded portion of a side of a pouch in a toner pack according to the first embodiment; (b) A cross-sectional schematic diagram of a second folded portion of a side of the pouch. [Figure 11] 1A is a cross-sectional view of a folded portion of a side of a pouch in a toner pack according to a first modified example of the first embodiment; FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of a folded portion of a side of a pouch in a toner pack according to a second modified example of the first embodiment; [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a perspective conceptual view showing a state in which the pouch of the toner pack according to the second embodiment is not visible; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0012] First Embodiment Fig. 1(a) is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an image forming apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment, and Fig. 1(b) is a schematic perspective view of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0013] In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 is a monochrome printer that forms an image on a recording material P based on image information input from an external device. The recording material P includes various sheet materials of different materials, such as paper such as plain paper and cardboard, plastic film such as sheets for overhead projectors, sheets of special shapes such as envelopes and index paper, and cloth.

[0014] (Overall configuration of image forming apparatus) 1(a) and 1(b), in this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 has an image forming unit 10 that forms a toner image on a recording material P, a pickup roller 65 that feeds the recording material P to the image forming unit 10, a fixing unit 70, and a pair of discharge rollers 80. The fixing unit 70 fixes the toner image formed by the image forming unit 10 onto the recording material P.

[0015] The image forming section 10 also has a scanner unit 11, an electrophotographic process cartridge 20, and a transfer roller 12 that transfers a toner image as a developer image formed on a photosensitive drum 21 of the process cartridge 20 onto a recording material P. The process cartridge 20 has the photosensitive drum 21 and a developing device 30 that includes a charging roller 22, a pre-exposure device 23, and a developing roller 31 arranged around the photosensitive drum 21.

[0016] In this embodiment, the photosensitive drum 21 is a cylindrical photosensitive member. The photosensitive drum 21 has a photosensitive layer formed of a negatively charged organic photosensitive member on a drum-shaped base made of aluminum. The photosensitive drum 21, which serves as an image carrier, is rotated by a motor in a predetermined direction (clockwise in the drawing) at a predetermined process speed.

[0017] The charging roller 22 contacts the photosensitive drum 21 with a predetermined pressure to form a charging portion. A desired charging voltage is applied to the charging roller 22 by a charging high-voltage power supply, thereby uniformly charging the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 to a predetermined potential.

[0018] In this embodiment, the photosensitive drum 21 is negatively charged by the charging roller 22. The pre-exposure device 23 neutralizes the surface potential of the photosensitive drum 21 before it enters the charging section in order to generate a stable discharge at the charging section.

[0019] The scanner unit 11, which serves as an exposure means, scans and exposes the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 by irradiating the photosensitive drum 21 with laser light corresponding to image information input from an external device using a polygon mirror. As a result, an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image information is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 21. Note that the scanner unit 11 is not limited to a laser scanner device, and may be, for example, an LED exposure device having an LED array in which a plurality of LEDs are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the photosensitive drum 21.

[0020] The developing device 30 includes a developing roller 31 as a developer carrier that carries developer, a developing container 32 that forms the frame of the developing device 30, and a supply roller 33 that can supply developer to the developing roller 31. The developing roller 31 and the supply roller 33 are rotatably supported by the developing container 32. The developing roller 31 is disposed at the opening of the developing container 32 so as to face the photosensitive drum 21.

[0021] The supply roller 33 is in rotatable contact with the developing roller 31, and the toner contained in the developing container 32 as the developer is applied to the surface of the developing roller 31 by the supply roller 33. Note that the supply roller 33 is not necessarily required as long as the configuration is such that a sufficient amount of toner can be supplied to the developing roller 31.

[0022] In this embodiment, the developing device 30 uses a contact development method. That is, the toner layer carried on the developing roller 31 comes into contact with the photosensitive drum 21 in a developing section (developing area) where the photosensitive drum 21 and the developing roller 31 face each other. A developing voltage is applied to the developing roller 31 by a developing high-voltage power supply.

[0023] Under the development voltage, the toner carried by the development roller 31 is transferred from the development roller 31 to the drum surface in accordance with the potential distribution on the surface of the photosensitive drum 21, thereby developing the electrostatic latent image into a toner image. Note that in this embodiment, a reversal development method is adopted. That is, the toner image is formed by adhering to the surface area of ​​the photosensitive drum 21, where the charge amount has been attenuated by exposure after being charged in the charging process.

[0024] In this embodiment, the toner used has a particle size of 6 μm and a normal negative charge polarity. As the toner used in this embodiment, a polymerized toner produced by a polymerization method is used as an example.

[0025] The toner of this embodiment does not contain a magnetic component, and is a so-called non-magnetic one-component developer in which the toner is carried on the developing roller 31 mainly by intermolecular forces and electrostatic forces (image forces). However, a one-component developer containing a magnetic component may also be used.

[0026] In addition, one-component developers may contain additives (e.g., wax or silica particles) in addition to toner particles to adjust the fluidity and charging performance of the toner. Two-component developers composed of non-magnetic toner and magnetic carrier may also be used as the developer. When a magnetic developer is used, a cylindrical developing sleeve with a magnet disposed inside is used as the developer carrier.

[0027] The developing container 32 is provided with a toner storage chamber 36 that stores toner, and an agitating member 34 as a stirring means that is disposed inside the toner storage chamber 36. The agitating member 34 is driven to rotate by a motor (not shown), thereby agitating the toner in the developing container 32 and sending the toner toward the developing roller 31 and the supply roller 33. The agitating member 34 also circulates, within the developing container, toner that has been scraped off from the developing roller 31 and not used in development, thereby serving to homogenize the toner in the developing container.

[0028] The stirring member 34 is not limited to a rotating type, and may be, for example, a swinging type stirring member.

[0029] A developing blade 35 is disposed at the opening of the developing container 32 in which the developing roller 31 is disposed, to regulate the amount of toner carried by the developing roller 31. The toner supplied to the surface of the developing roller 31 passes through the area facing the developing blade 35 as the developing roller 31 rotates, whereby the toner is uniformly formed into a thin layer and is negatively charged by frictional charging.

[0030] Next, the image forming operation of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described.

[0031] When an image formation command is input to the image forming apparatus 1, the image forming section 10 starts an image formation process based on image information input from an external computer connected to the image forming apparatus 1. The scanner unit 11 irradiates a laser beam onto the photosensitive drum 21 based on the input image information.

[0032] At this time, the photosensitive drum 21 is pre-charged by the charging roller 22, and an electrostatic latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum 21 by irradiating it with laser light. Thereafter, this electrostatic latent image is developed by the developing roller 31, and a toner image is formed on the photosensitive drum 21.

[0033] In parallel with the above-described image forming process, the recording material P is sent out by the pickup roller 65 and conveyed toward the transfer nip formed by the transfer roller 12 and the photosensitive drum 21 .

[0034] A transfer voltage is applied to the transfer roller 12 from a transfer high voltage power supply, and the toner image carried on the photosensitive drum 21 is transferred onto the recording material P.

[0035] The recording material P onto which the toner image has been transferred is heated and pressurized as it passes through the fixing unit 70. This causes the toner particles to melt and then solidify, thereby fixing the toner image to the recording material P.

[0036] The recording material P that has passed through the fixing unit 70 is discharged to the outside of the image forming apparatus 1 (outside the machine) by a pair of discharge rollers 80 serving as a discharge means, and is stacked on a discharge tray 81 serving as a stacking unit formed on the top of the printer main body 2. A top cover 82 serving as a stacking tray is provided on the top of the printer main body 2, and the discharge tray 81 serving as a stacking surface is formed on the upper surface of the top cover 82.

[0037] 1(b) and 2, an opening / closing member 83 is supported on the top cover 82 so as to be openable and closable around a rotation shaft 83a extending in the front-rear direction. Note that Fig. 2 is a perspective conceptual view showing the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment in a state in which the reading device is open. An opening 82a that opens upward is formed in the discharge tray 81 of the top cover 82.

[0038] The opening / closing member 83 is configured to be movable between a closed position where it covers a supply port 32a (described later) so that the toner pack 100 (storage container) cannot be attached to the developing container 32, and an open position where it exposes the supply port 32a so that the toner pack 100 can be attached to the developing container 32. The opening / closing member 83 functions as part of the discharge tray 81 in the closed position.

[0039] In this embodiment, the opening / closing member 83 and the opening 82a are formed on the left side of the discharge tray 81. The opening / closing member 83 is opened to the left by placing a finger in a groove 82b provided in the top cover 82. The opening / closing member 83 is formed in a substantially L-shape to fit the shape of the top cover 82.

[0040] The opening 82a of the discharge tray 81 is open so as to expose the supply port 32a for toner supply formed at the top of the developing container 32 (above the image forming device), and by opening the opening / closing member 83, the user can access the supply port 32a.

[0041] In this embodiment, a method (direct replenishment method) is adopted in which the user replenishes toner from a toner pack 100 (see FIGS. 1(a) and 1(b)) filled with replenishment toner to the developing device 30 while the developing device 30 remains attached to the image forming apparatus 1. When attached to the image forming apparatus 1, at least a portion of the toner pack 100 is exposed to the outside.

[0042] Therefore, when the amount of toner remaining in the process cartridge 20 becomes low, it is no longer necessary to remove the process cartridge 20 from the printer body 2 and replace it with a new process cartridge, thereby improving usability.

[0043] Furthermore, toner can be replenished to the developing container 32 more cheaply than by replacing the entire process cartridge 20. The direct replenishment method eliminates the need to replace various rollers, gears, etc., and therefore reduces costs compared to replacing only the developing device 30 of the process cartridge 20. The image forming apparatus 1 and the toner pack 100 constitute an image forming system 1000.

[0044] (Toner pack configuration) Next, the configuration of the toner pack 100 (container) that stores toner (powder) according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 3, 4, and 9. In particular, the "fold shape" and "fold forming portion" provided on the side of the pouch of the toner pack, which are features of the present invention, will be described in detail.

[0045] 3(a) and 3(b) are conceptual exploded perspective views of the toner pack according to the first embodiment, viewed from different viewpoints.

[0046] Fig. 4(a) is a conceptual perspective view showing a state in which the discharge outlet of the toner pack according to the first embodiment is covered, and Fig. 4(b) is a conceptual perspective view showing a state in which the discharge outlet of the toner pack is open.

[0047] Fig. 9(a) is a schematic side view showing the position of a fold formed on a side portion (before deformation) of a pouch of a toner pack according to the first embodiment. Fig. 9(b) is a schematic side view showing a state in which the pouch is not visible. Fig. 9(c) is a schematic perspective view showing a state in which the pouch of a toner pack is not visible.

[0048] As described above, the toner pack 100 (container) is detachable from the image forming apparatus 1 and is a flexible container capable of containing powder such as toner.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 3 or 4, in this embodiment, the toner pack 100 mainly includes a connecting member 102 (communicating member) and a pouch 103.

[0050] The toner pack 100 further includes components such as a shutter member 110, a seal member 104, and a base member 101. As shown in Fig. 3, the shutter member 110 is rotatable about the axis direction Z.

[0051] (pouch) As shown in FIG. 3 or 9, the pouch 103 is a flexible container-like object capable of containing toner (powder), and includes a bottom portion 103s and a side portion SB.

[0052] The side portion SB of the pouch 103 is configured to extend from the bottom portion 103s side to the opening 103k side so as to form an opening 103k located on the opposite side from the bottom portion 103s. In addition, an "opening inner surface 103a" (described later) is provided on the inside (103a) of the side portion SB located on the opening 103k side.

[0053] In this embodiment, a (first) fold forming portion 75b that forms a (first) fold shape 75 is provided on a side portion SB of the pouch 103. Note that the fold forming portion 75b is formed along an edge portion 102f of a top surface 102t of a joining member 102, which will be described later.

[0054] Also, as shown in FIG. 9, in this embodiment, the side portion SB of the pouch 103 has a first portion K101 and a second portion K102 connected to the first portion and having less strength than the first portion, and the fold forming portion 75b is provided at the boundary portion K1 between the first portion and the second portion.

[0055] Specifically, in this embodiment, the first portion K101 of the side portion SB is welded to the outer peripheral surface 102b of the connecting member 102, and therefore has greater strength than the second portion K102 of the side portion SB. When the side portion SB is pressed, the side portion SB tends to deform along the boundary portion K1. In this embodiment, by providing the fold forming portion 75b at the boundary portion K1 between the first portion K101 and the second portion K102, when the side portion SB is pressed, the side portion SB is more likely to deform at the position of the boundary portion K1, making it easier to form a fold (folded shape).

[0056] At least a portion 75b0 of the fold forming portion 75b is formed at a position closer to the bottom 103s than to the top surface 102t of the connecting member 102. For example, as shown in Fig. 9, (a portion 75b0 of) the fold forming portion 75b is formed near the position of the top surface 102t in the height direction Z0 connecting the opening 103k side and the bottom 103s side, and is formed to a position extending slightly above the top surface 102t (above as shown in Fig. 9).

[0057] Specifically, when locating the fold forming portion 75b at the boundary K1, by locating it at a position slightly closer to the bottom portion 103s than the top surface 102t, the width (deformation width) of the fold forming portion 75b becomes slightly wider, making it easier for the user to press the side portion SB. As a result, toner can be more easily discharged from the toner pack.

[0058] For example, a portion 75b0 of the fold forming portion 75b can be provided on the side portion SB within a range from the top surface 102t of the connecting member 102 to a position 30 mm away from the top surface 102t toward the bottom portion 103s. By providing the fold forming portion 75b within this range, the user can easily press the side portion SB, allowing toner to be discharged more efficiently. More preferably, the fold forming portion 75b is provided within a range from the top surface 102t to a position 15 mm away from the top surface toward the bottom portion 103s.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 9, in this embodiment, the side portion SB includes a second fold forming portion 76b that forms the second fold shape 76, spaced a predetermined distance (distance L8) from the fold forming portion 75b toward the bottom portion 103s.

[0060] By providing the second fold forming portion, the toner can be discharged from the toner pack more efficiently.

[0061] For example, the side portion SB may be provided with a third portion K103, a fourth portion K104, and a fifth portion K105 in this order from the opening side in the height direction Z0 (axial direction Z). The fourth portion K104 connects the third portion K103 and the fifth portion K105 and is configured to have less strength than the third and fourth portions. The second fold forming portion 76b may be formed in the fourth portion K104.

[0062] By making the fourth portion stronger than the third and fifth portions, when deformation occurs near the fold 75 due to pressure, the fourth portion K104 is the first to deform (is more likely to deform). Therefore, by providing the second fold forming portion in the fourth portion, when the fold 75 is formed by the fold forming portion 75b, the fold 76 is more likely to be formed along the second fold forming portion 76b. As a result, toner inside the toner pack is more easily discharged.

[0063] In other words, by providing the fold forming portion 75b and the second fold forming portion 76b, when the side portion SB is pressed, the third portion K103 of the side portion SB approaches the top surface 102t, and the fifth portion K105 approaches the opposing side portion SB, making it easier to discharge the toner inside the toner pack.

[0064] In this embodiment, the fold forming portion 75b and the second fold forming portion 76b are arranged on the side portion SB so as to be substantially parallel to each other, but they do not have to be parallel to each other.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 9, in this embodiment, side portion SB of pouch 103 is provided with third fold forming portions 77b, 78b that are arranged to intersect with fold forming portion 75b and form third fold shapes 77, 78.

[0066] By providing the third folding portion, the side portion SB can deform more smoothly (follow) when deformation occurs near the folding shape 75 and the second folding shape 76. This allows toner to be discharged more efficiently from the toner pack.

[0067] 9, in this embodiment, the third fold forming portions 77b, 78b also intersect with the second fold forming portion 76b, and are disposed on either side of the "axis" of the axial direction Z. The third fold forming portions 77b, 78b are inclined with respect to the axial direction Z so that the distance between them increases from the top surface 102t side toward the bottom surface 103s side.

[0068] The folding forming portions (75b to 78b) may be processed by pressing the side portions SB of the pouch 103. In addition to pressing, other processing methods such as bending, heat processing, or half-cutting may be used on the pouch (103), or any combination of these processing methods.

[0069] (folding section) Next, the configuration of the "fold forming section 75b" and the "second fold forming section 76b" of this embodiment, their processing method (processing conditions), and their cross-sectional shapes after processing will be described with reference to FIG.

[0070] Fig. 10(a) is a cross-sectional view of a fold-forming portion (75b) on the side of the pouch in the toner pack according to the first embodiment, and Fig. 10(b) is a cross-sectional view of a second fold-forming portion (76b) on the side of the pouch. Fig. 10 shows a cross section perpendicular to the direction in which fold-forming portion 75b or second fold-forming portion 76b extends (see Fig. 9(a)).

[0071] The fold forming portion 75b of this embodiment is formed by "press processing" as described above.

[0072] Specifically, as shown in Figure 10(a), the fold formation portion 75b (mountain fold) is formed by press processing from the inner side 103a so as to protrude outward from the surface (flat portion SBP1) that becomes the outer side 103b relative to the side portion SB of the pouch 103.

[0073] That is, the "fold forming portion 75b" formed by pressing from the surface (side) that becomes the inner side 103a of the pouch 103 has a protruding portion SBP2 that protrudes from the flat portion SBP1, which is the flat portion (surface) of the outer side 103b of the side portion SB, to the "outside side 103b" of the pouch.

[0074] The protruding direction of the protruding portion SPB2 may be reversed on the inside and outside. The same can be said for the protruding portion SPB4.

[0075] Also, as shown in FIG. 10(a), in this embodiment, the protrusion SBP2 constituting the fold forming portion 75b has a "convex" shape when viewed from the outside of the pouch, and a "concave" shape when viewed from the inside.

[0076] In this embodiment, the thickness (T2) of the protruding portion SBP2 is approximately the same as the thickness (T1) of the flat portion SBP1. Note that, to make it easier to form the folded shape, the thickness (T2) of the protruding portion SBP2 may be configured to be smaller than the thickness (T1) of the flat portion SBP1.

[0077] In this embodiment, the height H1 of the protruding portion SBP2 can be set smaller than the thickness T1 of the flat portion SBP1, which makes it easier to form the folds in the pouch and stabilizes the shape of the pouch when it contains toner.

[0078] In this embodiment, the width (W1) of the protrusion SPB2 is greater than the height H1 of the protrusion SBP2, which makes it possible to stabilize the shape of the pouch when it contains toner.

[0079] In addition, the protrusion SPB2 has a cross-sectional shape that is a smooth arc, which allows the strength of the folded portion to be maintained high.

[0080] 10(b), second fold forming portion 76b (valley fold) is formed by pressing from outer side 103b so as to protrude in the opposite direction (opposite side) to fold forming portion 75b. Second fold forming portion 76b has basically the same configuration as fold forming portion 75b except for the direction in which it protrudes.

[0081] Specifically, the second fold forming portion 76b is formed by pressing from the outer side 103b of the pouch 103 so as to protrude inward from the surface (flat portion SBP3) that becomes the inner side 103a relative to the side portion SB of the pouch 103.

[0082] That is, the "second fold forming portion 76b" formed by pressing from the surface (side) that becomes the outer side 103b of the pouch 103 has a protruding portion SBP4 that protrudes from the flat portion SBP3, which is the flat portion (surface) of the inner side 103a of the side portion SB, toward the "inner side 103a" of the pouch.

[0083] Furthermore, the thickness T2 and height H1 of the protruding portion SBP4 of the second fold forming portion 76b can be configured in the same manner as those of the fold forming portion 75b.

[0084] For other fold forming sections (e.g., third fold forming sections 77b, 78b), the press processing conditions (e.g., press direction) can be changed depending on whether the fold is a "mountain fold" or a "valley fold," like fold forming section 75b (mountain fold) or second fold forming section 76b (valley fold).

[0085] Moreover, the fold forming section 75b (or the second fold forming section 76b) can have a cross-sectional shape (modified example) as shown in FIGS. 11(a) and 11(b) other than the cross-sectional shape shown in FIG.

[0086] Fig. 11(a) is a cross-sectional conceptual diagram of a fold-forming portion on the side of a pouch in a toner pack according to "Modification 1" of the first embodiment, and Fig. 11(b) is a cross-sectional conceptual diagram of a fold-forming portion on the side of a pouch in a toner pack according to "Modification 2" of the first embodiment. Note that Fig. 11 shows cross sections of fold-forming portion 75b in each of Modifications 1 and 2, taken perpendicular to the direction in which fold-forming portion 75b extends (see Fig. 9(a)).

[0087] Specifically, the cross-sectional shape of the fold forming portion 75b shown in FIG. 11(a) can be formed by pressing or cutting. Specifically, a predetermined groove shape is formed by pressing a mold in the thickness direction on the surface of the inner side 103a of the side portion SB. Alternatively, the mold may be pressed in a heated state. Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape shown in FIG. 11(a) can also be formed by cutting the surface of the inner side 103a with a blade. This makes it easier for the fold forming portion 75b to have a "mountain fold" shape. Note that, for the second fold forming portion 76b (valley fold), a predetermined groove shape may be formed in the opposite direction (side) to the fold forming portion 75b, as in the first embodiment.

[0088] The cross-sectional shape of the fold forming portion 75b shown in FIG. 11(b) can be formed by a cutting method. Specifically, the cross-sectional shape shown in FIG. 11(b) can also be formed by cutting the surface of the inner side 103a of the side portion SB with a blade. This forms a predetermined groove shape. This makes it easier for the fold forming portion 75b to have a "mountain fold" shape. Note that, for the second fold forming portion 76b (valley fold), a predetermined groove shape may be formed in the opposite direction (side) to the fold forming portion 75b, as in the first embodiment.

[0089] The same applies to the other fold forming units (for example, the second and third fold forming units).

[0090] (Connecting member) 3 or 9, the connecting member 102 (communicating member) is generally cylindrical and has an outer peripheral surface 102a, an inner peripheral surface 102b (hole), and a top surface 102t (facing surface) that faces the bottom 103s of the pouch. The connecting member 102 is attached to the inside of the opening side of the pouch 103 (opening inner surface 103a).

[0091] The outer peripheral surface 102a of the connecting member 102 is a surface that is welded to connect with the inner surface 103a of the opening of the side portion SB of the pouch 103. On the other hand, the inner peripheral surface 102b forms a "hole" into which the base member 101, which will be described later, is inserted.

[0092] The base member 101 is formed with a "discharge path 101h (communicating portion)" (described later) that connects the inside and outside of the pouch 103. The base member 101 and the connecting member 102 constitute the "communicating member" of the present invention.

[0093] The coupling member 102 is also formed with a "recess 102c" which will be described later.

[0094] In this embodiment, both the connecting member 102 and the pouch 103 are made of the same resin material, and the connecting member 102 is attached to the inside of the opening side of the pouch 103 (opening inner surface 103a) by welding. After the connecting member 102 is attached to the pouch 103, the pouch 103 is filled with toner. Thereafter, the base member 101, which will be described later, is attached to the connecting member 102.

[0095] In addition, in this embodiment, the outer surface 102a of the connecting member 102 is provided with a welding portion 1021, and the connecting member is attached to the inside of the opening side of the pouch by welding the welding portion 1021 to the inside of the side portion SB (the inner surface 103a of the opening).

[0096] In this embodiment, the welded portion 1021 includes a first welded portion 102g (welded rib) and a second welded portion 102h (welded rib) in a direction L50 that is along the first direction L5 in which the folds (lines) 751 (see FIG. 7) of the folded shape 75 extend. That is, when viewed along a direction perpendicular to the height direction Z0 and the first direction L5, the first welded portion 102g and the second welded portion 102h are provided so as to protrude outward from the outer circumferential surface 102a along the first direction L5 (direction L50).

[0097] In this embodiment, the direction L50 is illustrated as extending in the "same" direction as the direction L5, but it need only be along the direction in which the direction L5 extends, and does not necessarily have to be the "same" direction as the direction L5. Also, in this embodiment, the direction L5 is illustrated as being "orthogonal" to the height direction Z0, but it does not necessarily have to be "orthogonal", and the direction L5 may be configured to intersect with the height direction Z0.

[0098] Both first welded portion 102g and second welded portion 102h extend further outward from the position of edge portion 102f and are located on different sides of connecting member 102 in first direction L5 (direction L50). By providing first and second welded portions 102g and 102h, the connecting member can be attached to pouch 100 more easily and reliably when welded to the pouch.

[0099] Furthermore, the edge 102f of the top surface 102t is provided with a linear portion SL that extends in a direction L51 along the first direction L5. Note that, in the present embodiment, the direction L51 is illustrated as extending in the "same" direction as the direction L5, but it is sufficient that the direction L51 is along the direction in which the direction L5 extends, and it does not necessarily have to be "same" as the direction L5.

[0100] The straight line portion SL is disposed so as to be located between the first welded portion 102g and the second welded portion 102h in the first direction L5 (direction L51) when viewed along a direction intersecting the height direction Z0 and the first direction L5. As shown in Fig. 9(d), the straight line portion SL includes a first straight line portion SL1 and a second straight line portion SL2 that are parallel to each other.

[0101] By arranging the first and second straight portions SL1, SL2 extending in the direction L51 between the first and second welding portions 102g, 102h, the connecting member can be easily welded to the pouch and a folding shape (folding portion) can be easily formed on the side portion SB of the pouch.

[0102] When the connecting member 102 is viewed along the height direction Z0 (axial direction Z) connecting the opening 103k side and the bottom 103s side, the top surface 102t of the connecting member is substantially hexagonal. The first welded portion 102g and the second welded portion 102h are provided at a pair of opposing corners AN1 and AN2 of the hexagon.

[0103] When the inner surface 103a of the opening of the pouch 103 is joined to the outer surface 102a of the joining member 102, the gap between the first corner 103x and the second corner 103y of the opening 103k is filled by the first welded portion 102g and the second welded portion 102h. This makes it easier to weld the portions that are difficult to join during welding.

[0104] The joining method may be a well-known method, such as a method using various adhesives such as hot melt, or a method of joining pouch 103 to the outer periphery of joining member 102 by heat welding.

[0105] However, if the pouch 103 and the connecting member 102 are made of the same resin material and joined by thermal welding, the joined unit does not contain any parts made of different materials, making it easier to recycle, etc., and contributing to reducing the environmental burden.

[0106] (Base material) Next, the base member 101 will be described with reference to Figures 3 and 8. The base member 101 and the connecting member 102 together constitute the "communicating member" of the present invention, and connect the inside and outside of the pouch 103.

[0107] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional conceptual diagram showing a state in which the toner pack according to the first embodiment has been completely replenished.

[0108] 3 or 8, in this embodiment, a part (shaft 101a) of the base member 101 is inserted into the inner peripheral surface 102b (hole) of the substantially cylindrical "coupling member 102" and is integrated by engagement. In other words, the "communication member" may be formed by integrating two (multiple) parts (members), or may be formed from a single part (member).

[0109] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3 or 8, the base member 101 includes a top surface 101s (opposing surface), an outer circumferential surface 101b, a toner discharge port 101r, and a shaft portion 101a.

[0110] The top surface 101s (opposing surface) faces the bottom 103s of the pouch 103. The toner discharge port 101r is formed on the outer peripheral surface 101b. The shaft portion 101a engages with the inner peripheral surface 102b (hole portion) of the connecting member 102.

[0111] The base member 101 is provided with a "discharge path 101h" as a discharge hole for discharging toner inside the toner pack 100. The discharge path 101h communicates with the top surface 102t (opposing surface) and the top surface 101s (opposing surface) to the discharge opening 101r, and communicates the inside and outside of the toner pack 100.

[0112] This allows the toner contained in the pouch 103 to be discharged to the outside of the toner pack 100 through the discharge port 101r.

[0113] 8, the top surface 101s (opposing surface) is formed in a cone shape, and is formed as a slope that slopes downward as it approaches the discharge path 101h (center). This makes it easier for the user to deform the side portion SB along the folding shape 75. In particular, in the latter half of the toner discharge operation, the user can further push the inner surfaces 103p1 (third portion K103) and 103p2 (third portion K103) of the pouch 103 of the toner pack 100 toward the top surface 101s (sloping surface).

[0114] This allows for more efficient toner discharge. That is, pouch 103 can be deformed further toward discharge path 101h along top surface 101s (inclined surface) that connects to discharge path 101h. As a result, the volume inside pouch 103 can be more reliably reduced, making toner replenishment even easier and improving usability.

[0115] As shown in FIG. 3, the base member 101 has protrusions 101x and 101y that engage with the recesses 102c of the coupling member 102.

[0116] The engagement between the inner circumferential surface 102b (hole) and the shaft portion 101a can restrict relative movement between the two components in directions other than the rotational direction. Furthermore, the engagement between the recessed portion 102c and the protruding portions 101x and 101y can further restrict relative movement between the two components in the rotational direction. This allows the base member 101 to be held by the connecting member 102 without moving relative to it.

[0117] The seal member 104 is made of an elastically deformable material such as urethane foam or nonwoven fabric. It is fixed to the surface 110f of the shutter member 110 with double-sided tape or the like. This makes it possible to prevent toner leakage from the interface between the seal member 104 and the shutter member 110.

[0118] 4, the toner pack 100 is configured so that the shutter member 110 is rotatable relative to the base member 101. The shutter member 110 is rotatable about the axial direction Z in the Z1 direction and in the Z2 direction opposite to the Z1 direction.

[0119] For example, by rotating the shutter member 110 in the Z1 direction from the "shielded state" shown in Fig. 4(a), it becomes the "open state" shown in Fig. 4(b). Conversely, by rotating the shutter member 110 in the Z2 direction from the "open state", it can also be switched to the "shielded state".

[0120] In the "open state" shown in FIG. 4(b), the toner contained in the pouch 103 can be discharged (supplied) to the outside of the toner pack 100 (to the image forming apparatus 1).

[0121] (Toner pack and supply port connection) Next, using Figure 5, we will explain the preparatory operation for the user to connect the toner pack 100 to the supply port 32a of the image forming apparatus 1 and supply the toner in the toner pack 100 to the developing container 32 of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0122] Fig. 5(a) is a schematic perspective view showing the toner pack according to the first embodiment just before it is attached to the supply port, and Fig. 5(b) is a schematic perspective view showing the toner pack attached to the supply port.

[0123] In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 includes a supply port 32a (mounting portion) into which the toner pack 100 is mounted, and the toner pack 100 can be mounted by setting it in the supply port.

[0124] As described above, in the posture during use, the supply port 32a is provided on the upper side of the image forming apparatus 1 (see FIG. 2).

[0125] As shown in FIG. 5, the toner pack 100 is attached to the supply port 32a in a position where the bottom 103s is positioned at an upper side G1 in the direction of gravity G and the opening 103k is positioned at a lower side G2 in the direction of gravity.

[0126] In this embodiment, the toner pack 100 is attached to and detached from the supply port 32a in a direction G0 that is parallel to the direction G of gravity.

[0127] More specifically, the user aligns the height direction Z0 (axial direction Z) of the toner pack with the direction G0, and attaches the toner pack 100 to the replenishing port 32a along the direction G0.

[0128] After installation, the grip portion 310a of the operating lever 310 is grasped and the operating lever 310 is rotated in the Z1 direction around the axial direction Z. This causes the shutter member 110 of the toner pack 100 to rotate and enter the "open state" (see FIG. 4(b)).

[0129] Conversely, when the user wants to move the toner pack 100 from the "open state" to the "closed state" (see FIG. 4(a)), he or she simply rotates the operating lever 310 in the Z2 direction around the axial direction Z as the center of rotation.

[0130] In this embodiment, the toner pack 100 is attached to the supply port 32a during non-image formation when no image formation operation is being performed, and supplies developer to the image forming device 1, but is configured to be removed from the supply port 32a before the image formation operation is started.

[0131] (Toner supply operation using a toner pack) Next, the operation of replenishing toner from the toner pack 100 attached to the image forming apparatus 1 (replenishing port 32a) and the relationship with the "folding shape" will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0132] FIG. 6 is a perspective conceptual view showing a method for discharging toner from the toner pack according to the first embodiment.

[0133] 7(a) to 7(c) are perspective conceptual diagrams showing the toner pack according to the first embodiment in a replenished state from different viewpoints. Fig. 7(d) is a perspective conceptual diagram showing the toner pack in a state where the pouch is not visible. Fig. 7(a) shows a perspective conceptual diagram of one side SB1 of the toner pack from which toner has been completely discharged. Fig. 7(c) shows a perspective conceptual diagram of the other side SB2 of the toner pack from which toner has been completely discharged.

[0134] As described above, when toner is replenished to the image forming apparatus 1, the toner pack 100 is attached to the replenishing port 32a of the image forming apparatus 1. In the attached state, the toner contained in the toner pack 100 is discharged from the toner pack 100 and replenished to the developing container 32 through the replenishing port 32a.

[0135] First, a method for discharging the toner contained in the toner pack 100 will be described.

[0136] 6, the user deforms the pouch 103 to supply the toner in the pouch 103 to the developing container 32. For this reason, the pouch 103 needs to be configured to be easily deformed. When the user deforms the pouch 103 to reduce the volume inside the pouch 103, the toner contained in the toner pack 100 is discharged.

[0137] The pouch 103 is flexible so that it can be deformed by the user, and its material and shape may be well known. In addition, if the pouch 103 is flexible, it is preferable that the toner be ejected from the pouch 103 by squeezing it with the user's fingers.

[0138] As described above, folds 75b are provided along edges 102f of top surface 102t on the sides of pouch 103. This allows side SB to easily deform along folds 75b when a user presses side SB of the pouch with their fingers to discharge toner.

[0139] That is, as shown in FIG. 7, when the toner inside the toner pack 100 of this embodiment is discharged, the opening 103k side of the pouch 103 is folded along the edge 102f of the top surface 102t of the connecting member 102, forming a first fold shape 75.

[0140] Specifically, in this embodiment, the edge portion 102f of the top surface 102t has six sides SL1 to SL6 of a hexagon. In the first direction L5, the middle sides SL1 and SL2 are arranged between the first welded portion 102g and the second welded portion 102h, and both the middle sides SL1 and SL2 are arranged approximately parallel to the first direction L5.

[0141] On either side of one middle side SL1, a bottom side SL3 and a top side SL4 are arranged adjacent to each other, and on either side of the other middle side SL2, a bottom side SL5 and a top side SL6 are arranged adjacent to each other. The outer shape of the edge portion 102f of the connecting member 102 is "line symmetric" with respect to a straight line (first direction L5) passing through the first welded portion 102g and the second welded portion 102h. In other words, when viewed from the axial direction Z, the top surface 102t of the connecting member 102 is "approximately hexagonal."

[0142] A mountain fold 75a is formed along one middle side SL1 of the edge portion 102f, and valley folds 75a1 and 75a2 are formed along the bottom side SL3 and top side SL4.

[0143] Similarly, a mountain fold 75a is formed along the other middle side SL2, and valley folds (not shown) are formed along the lower side SL5 and upper side SL6.

[0144] In this embodiment, it is sufficient for (first) folding shape 75 to include at least folding shape 75a, and more preferably to include all of folding shapes 75a, 75a1, and 75a2. That is, it is sufficient to provide folding portions 75b corresponding to folding shape 75a, and more preferably to provide folding portions 75b corresponding to all of folding shapes 75a, 75a1, and 75a2.

[0145] In this embodiment, the middle side SL1 (SL2) is a "straight (linear) shape." This makes it easier to form the (mountain) fold shape 75a.

[0146] In this way, by providing the fold forming portion 75b that forms the fold shape 75 near the edge portion 102f of the connecting member 102 (communicating member), the position where the flexible side portion SB deforms can be actively guided, thereby allowing the toner in the toner pack to be discharged more efficiently.

[0147] As described above, second fold forming portion 76b is provided on the side of pouch 103 at a predetermined interval (distance L8) from fold forming portion 75b toward bottom 103. This makes it easier to form second fold shape 76 as fold shape 75 is formed by fold forming portion 75b. This allows side portion SB to deform more smoothly, allowing toner to be discharged more efficiently.

[0148] That is, as shown in FIG. 7, the toner pack 100 of this embodiment is folded with the second (valley) fold 76 formed when the toner inside has been discharged.

[0149] As described above, side portion SB of pouch 103 is disposed so as to intersect with fold formation portion 75b, and third fold formation portions 77b, 78b are provided. This makes it easier to form third fold shapes 77, 78 along with fold shape 75b and second fold shape 75b, allowing side portion SB to deform more smoothly and allowing toner to be discharged more efficiently.

[0150] Specifically, third folds 77 and 78 are formed which intersect with first fold 75 and second fold 76 and form "mountain folds" in the direction widening toward bottom 103s.

[0151] That is, third folded shapes 77 and 78 are formed from both ends SL1a and SL1b of the middle side SL1 toward both ends 76a and 76b of the second folded shape 76.

[0152] By providing the fold forming portion, the inner surfaces of one side portion SB1 and the other side portion SB2 of pouch 103 are easily deformed so as to come into contact with top surface 102t of the connecting member. Then, the inner surfaces of side portion SB1 and side portion SB2 of pouch 103 come into contact with each other, and the volume inside pouch 103 is easily reduced.

[0153] In this way, by providing the first to third fold forming portions and forming the "folded shape," the side portion SB of the pouch can be deformed more smoothly, and the toner in the toner pack 100 can be discharged more efficiently.

[0154] That is, the pouch 103 of the toner pack 100 can be deformed to minimize its volume, making it easier to fold. In other words, when a user uses the toner pack 100 to replenish toner in the image forming apparatus 1, the pouch 103 can be more easily deformed, making it easier to replenish toner, and improving usability.

[0155] In this embodiment, a configuration including first to third fold forming units is described, but it is sufficient to include at least the first fold forming unit.

[0156] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 9, if the distance from the edge 102f to the second fold forming portion 76b is distance L8 and the distance from the first middle side SL1 to the second middle side SL2 of the top surface 102t of the connecting member is distance L9, it is desirable that the relationship between distance L8 and distance L9 be as follows. L8≧L9 / 2 That is, the distance between the "first fold forming portion 75b" and the "second fold forming portion 76b" in the height direction Z0 can be set to "distance L8." Meanwhile, "distance L8" can be set to be greater than the shortest distance (L9 / 2) from the position (first middle side SL1 or second middle side SL2) at which the first fold forming portion 75b is formed on the edge portion 102f of the top surface 102t of the joining member 102 to the center position S01 of the top surface 102t.

[0157] This allows the inner surfaces of side portions SB1 and SB2 to deform so as to come into contact with top surface 102t of the connecting member with little gap or slack. The inner surfaces of side portions SB1 and SB2 of pouch 103 come into contact with each other, making it easier to further reduce the volume inside pouch 103.

[0158] In this embodiment, an opening of the discharge path 101h is formed near the center position S01 of the top surface 102t of the joining member 102. The center of the top surface 102t and the center of the opening of the discharge path 101h are arranged to overlap with each other.

[0159] As described above, the outer peripheral surface 102a of the connecting member 102 and the opening inner surface 103a of the pouch 103 are joined by means of "thermal welding" or the like. That is, the joined portion where the range of the region W is joined (by welding) in the axial direction Z constitutes the first part K101.

[0160] Here, the first portion (joining portion) is an integral structure of a joining member 102 made of resin or metal and a pouch 103 (side portion SB), and has a higher strength as rigidity in the bending direction than the second portion K102. As described above, by providing the (first) fold forming portion 75b at the boundary portion K1 between the first portion K101 and the second portion, the (first) fold shape 75 is easily formed.

[0161] This makes it easier to deform pouch 103, making it easier to replenish toner, and improving usability. Note that the means for varying the strength of side portion SB is not limited to the above-described configuration. For example, the thickness of side portion SB of pouch 103 itself may be partially changed, or a support (reinforcing) member may be attached to a portion of the pouch.

[0162] In the first embodiment, the "folding section" that allows the user to easily form a "folded shape" when refilling toner was described, but it is also possible to have the "folded shape" formed in advance on the side of the pouch to some extent. This configuration can also achieve the same effects as those described above.

[0163] For example, the toner pack 100 may include a flexible pouch 103 and a connecting member 102, and the side portion SB may be formed with a folded shape 75 along an edge 102f of a top surface 102t of the connecting member 102.

[0164] Similarly, a second folded shape 76 may be formed in the side portion SB at a predetermined distance L8 toward the bottom portion 103s from the position of the folded shape 75. Third folded shapes 77 and 78 connecting the folded shape 75 and the second folded shape 76 may be formed in the side portion SB.

[0165] In this way, by providing a "folded shape" or "folded portion" on the side of the pouch, the pouch 103 becomes more easily deformable, allowing for more efficient and smooth toner replenishment, and improving usability.

[0166] The "folded shape" or "folded portion" may be provided on both sides of the side portion SB (first side portion SB1, second side portion SB2), or on only one side. However, providing it on both sides is preferable because it improves the ease of discharging toner (powder) compared to providing it on only one side.

[0167] <Second embodiment> The second embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG.

[0168] The second embodiment is basically the same as the toner pack 100 according to the first embodiment in terms of configuration, and only the differences will be described below.

[0169] FIG. 12 is a perspective conceptual diagram showing a state in which the pouch of the toner pack according to the second embodiment is not visible.

[0170] 12, in the toner pack 100 of this embodiment, when the connecting member 102 is viewed along the height direction Z0 connecting the opening 103k side and the bottom 103s side, the top surface 102t (opposing surface) has an "irregular shape." That is, compared to the "hexagonal" shape of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 9(c), the "straight line portions" constituting the two middle sides (SL1, SL2) of the hexagon have been changed to "curved lines."

[0171] Specifically, the top surface 102t (irregular shape) of the second embodiment is composed of a first curved portion CL1, a second curved portion CL2, a first straight portion SL3, a second straight portion SL5, a third straight portion SL4, and a fourth straight portion SL6.

[0172] One end of the second straight line portion SL5 and one end of the first straight line portion SL3 are connected to form a first interior angle A1.

[0173] Furthermore, one end of the fourth straight line portion SL6 and one end of the third straight line portion SL4 are connected to form a second interior angle A2.

[0174] On the other hand, the first curved section CL1 connects the other end of the first straight section SL3 to the other end of the third straight section SL4, and the second curved section CL2 connects the other end of the second straight section SL5 to the other end of the fourth straight section SL6.

[0175] In other words, in this embodiment, the curved portion CL1 of the edge 602f of the coupling member 102 is formed as an arc tangent to the middle side SL1 (imaginary line), the lower side SL3 (imaginary line), and the upper side SL4 (imaginary line) of the first embodiment. That is, the imaginary lines SL1, SL3, and SL4 are tangent lines of the "arc" of the curved portion CL1. Therefore, the edge 602f of the second embodiment does not have inflection points P1 and P2 as in the first embodiment.

[0176] In other words, the first curved portion CL1 is made up of a first arc portion CL1s, and the second curved portion CL2 is made up of a second arc portion CL2s. The first arc portion and the second arc portion have the same radius of curvature.

[0177] The first interior angle A1 and the second interior angle A2 are also obtuse angles and are set to the same angle.

[0178] In this embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the welded portion 1021 includes a first welded portion 102g and a second welded portion 102h. The first welded portion 102g extends outward from a position corresponding to the vertex TP1 of the first interior angle A1. The second welded portion 102h extends outward from a position corresponding to the vertex TP2 of the second interior angle A2.

[0179] Also, similarly to the first embodiment, in the second embodiment, the relationship between the distance L8 (see FIG. 9(a)) and the distance L9 (see FIG. 9(c)) is preferably as follows. L8≧L9 / 2 That is, the distance between the "first fold forming portion 75b" and the "second fold forming portion 76b" in the height direction Z0 can be set to "distance L8." Meanwhile, "distance L8" can be set to be greater than the shortest distance (L9 / 2) from the position where the first fold forming portion 75b is formed (middle side SL1 indicated by an imaginary line) on the edge portion 102f of the top surface 102t of the joining member 102 to the center position S01 of the top surface 102t.

[0180] The second embodiment has the same effects as the first embodiment. That is, the pouch 103 of the toner pack 100 can be easily deformed, making toner replenishment easier and improving usability. Furthermore, in the second embodiment, since the inflection points P1 and P2 are eliminated, when the pouch 103 is deformed during a replenishment operation, localized concentration of stress acting on the pouch 103 can be suppressed, and damage to the pouch can also be suppressed.

[0181] The configuration of the present invention can be summarized as follows.

[0182] (1) The storage container (100) of the present invention is A container for containing powder, a flexible pouch (103) having a bottom (103s) and a side (SB) extending from the bottom to form an opening (103k); a communication member (101, 102) provided on the inner side (103a) of the opening side of the side portion and having a communication part (101h) that communicates between the inside and outside of the pouch, The communication member (102) has an opposing surface (102t) facing the bottom portion, The side portion (SB) has a fold forming portion (75b) that forms a fold shape (75) along the edge portion (102f, 602f) of the opposing surface of the communication member.

[0183] (2) In the storage container of the present invention, the side portion (SB) may have a first portion (K101) and a second portion (K102) connected to the first portion and having a strength less than that of the first portion. The fold forming portion (75) may be provided at the boundary portion (K1) between the first portion and the second portion.

[0184] (3) In the storage container of the present invention, at least a portion (75b0) of the fold (75) may be formed at a position closer to the bottom (103s) than to the opposing surface (102t).

[0185] (4) In the storage container of the present invention, the fold forming portion (75) may be provided on the side portion (SB) within a range from the position of the opposing surface (102t) to a position 30 mm away from the opposing surface toward the bottom portion (103s).

[0186] (5) In the storage container of the present invention, the side portion (SB) may have a second fold forming portion (76b) that forms a second fold shape (76) at a predetermined distance (L8) from the fold forming portion (75) toward the bottom portion (103s).

[0187] (6) In the storage container of the present invention, the side portion (SB) may be provided with a third portion (K103), a fourth portion (K104), and a fifth portion (K105) in that order from the opening side in the height direction (Z0) connecting the opening (103k) side and the bottom (103s) side.

[0188] The fourth portion (K104) may be configured to connect the third portion (K103) and the fifth portion (K105) and to have a strength lower than that of the third and fourth portions.

[0189] The second fold (76b) may be formed in the fourth portion (K104).

[0190] (7) In the storage container of the present invention, the fold forming portion (75) and the second fold forming portion (76) may be disposed on the side portion (SB) so as to be substantially parallel to each other.

[0191] (8) In the storage container of the present invention, the side portion (SB) may have third fold formation portions (77b, 78b) that are arranged to intersect with the fold formation portion (75b) and form third fold shapes (77, 78).

[0192] (9) In the storage container of the present invention, the opposing surface (101s) of the communication member (101) that faces the bottom (103s) may be configured to have a mortar shape.

[0193] (10) In the storage container of the present invention, the pouch (103) and the communication member (102) may be made of the same resin material.

[0194] (11) In the storage container of the present invention, the fold formation portion (75) may be formed on the pouch (103) by any one or a combination of multiple processing methods selected from bending, pressing, heat processing, and half-cut processing.

[0195] (12) In the storage container of the present invention, the communication member (102) may include a welding portion (1021) welded to the inner side (103a) of the side portion (SB).

[0196] (13) In the container of the present invention, the welded portion (1021) is a first welded portion (102g) extending outward from the edge portion (102f) in a direction (L50) along a first direction (L5) in which the fold (751) of the folded shape (75) extends; A second welded portion (102h) extending outward from the edge portion in a direction (L50) along the first direction may be provided.

[0197] The first welded portion and the second welded portion may be disposed on different sides of the communication member (102) in the first direction (L5).

[0198] (14) In the storage container of the present invention, a linear portion (SL) having a linear shape extending in a direction (L51) along the first direction (L5) may be provided on the edge portion (102f) of the opposing surface (102t). The linear portion (SL) may be located between the first welded portion (102g) and the second welded portion (102h) in the first direction (L5).

[0199] (15) In the storage container of the present invention, the straight line portion (SL) may include a first straight line portion (SL1) and a second straight line portion (SL2) that are parallel to each other.

[0200] (16) In the storage container of the present invention, when the communication member (102) is viewed along a height direction Z0 connecting the opening (103k) side and the bottom (103s) side, the opposing surface (102t) may be hexagonal. The first welded portion (102g) and the second welded portion (102h) may be provided at a pair of opposing corners (AN1, AN2) of the hexagon.

[0201] (17) In the storage container of the present invention, when the communication member (102) is viewed along the height direction Z0 connecting the opening (103k) side and the bottom (103s) side, The opposing surface (102t) is a first straight section (SL3); a second straight portion (SL5) having one end connected to one end of the first straight portion (SL) so as to form a first interior angle (A1) with the first straight portion; a third straight section (SL4); a fourth straight portion (SL6) having one end connected to one end of the third straight portion so as to form a second interior angle (A2) with the third straight portion; a first curved portion (CL1) connecting the other end of the first straight portion and the other end of the third straight portion; a second curved portion (CL2) connecting the other end of the second straight portion and the other end of the fourth straight portion; The shape may be an irregular shape having the above.

[0202] (18) In the storage container of the present invention, the first curved portion (CL1) may be configured with a first arc portion (CL1s), and the second curved portion (CL2) may be configured with a second arc portion (CL2s).

[0203] (19) In the storage container of the present invention, the first arcuate portion and the second arcuate portion may have the same radius of curvature.

[0204] (20) In the storage container of the present invention, the first interior angle (A1) and the second interior angle (A2) may be obtuse angles.

[0205] (21) In the container of the present invention, the welded portion (1021) is a first welded portion (102g) extending outward from a position corresponding to the vertex (TP1) of the first interior angle (A1); a second welded portion (102h) extending outward from a position corresponding to the vertex (TP2) of the second interior angle (A2); may also be provided.

[0206] (22) In the container of the present invention, the pouch (103) may contain a developer used in the image forming operation.

[0207] (23) The storage container (100) of the present invention is A container for containing powder (T), a flexible pouch (103) having a bottom (103s) and a side (SB) extending from the bottom to form an opening (103k); a communication member (102) provided on the inner side (103a) of the opening side of the side portion and having a communication part (102b) that communicates between the inside and outside of the pouch; The communication member (102) has an opposing surface (102t) facing the bottom portion, The side portion (SB) has a folded shape (75) formed along the edge portion (102f) of the opposing surface of the communication member.

[0208] (24) In the storage container of the present invention, a second folded shape (76) may be formed on the side (SB) at a predetermined distance (L8) from the folded shape (75) toward the bottom (103s).

[0209] (25) In the storage container of the present invention, the side portion (SB) may be formed with third folds (77, 78) connecting the fold (75) and the second fold (76).

[0210] (26) The image forming system (1000) of the present invention comprises: The aforementioned container (100) in which the developer is contained; an image forming apparatus (1) having a mounting portion (32a) to which a storage container is mounted, An image forming operation can be performed using the developer supplied from the container.

[0211] (27) In the image forming system of the present invention, In the posture during use, the mounting portion (32a) may be provided on the upper side (S3) of the image forming apparatus (1), The storage container (100) can be attached to the attachment portion (32a) in a position where the bottom (103s) is positioned above (G1) in the direction of gravity (G) and the opening (103k) is positioned below (G2) in the direction of gravity, and developer can be replenished to the image forming device.

[0212] (28) In the image forming system of the present invention, the container (100) may be configured to be attached to and detached from the attachment portion (32a) in a direction (G0) that is parallel to the direction of gravity (G).

[0213] (29) In the image forming system of the present invention, the container (100) During non-image formation, when image formation is not being performed, the developer supplying unit (1) may be attached to the attachment portion (32a) to supply developer to the image forming device (1), and may be removed from the attachment portion (32a) before the image formation operation is started.

[0214] (30) In the image forming system of the present invention, the developer contained in the container (100) may be a non-magnetic one-component developer.

[0215] (31) In the storage container of the present invention, the distance (L8) between the fold forming portion (75b) and the second fold forming portion (76b) in the height direction (Z0) connecting the opening side (103k) and the bottom side (103s) may be configured to be greater than the shortest distance (L9 / 2) from the position (SL1) where the fold forming portion (75b) is formed on the edge portion (102f) of the opposing surface (102t) to the center position (S01) of the opposing surface.

[0216] (32) In the storage container of the present invention, the pouch (103) may be made of a plastically deformable material. [Explanation of symbols]

[0217] 75 Folding shape 75b Folding section 100 toner packs (container) 103 pouches 103a (inside of pouch opening) 103k (Pouch) Opening 103s (bottom of pouch) 101 base member (connecting member) 101h Discharge route (communication part) 101s (Base material) Top surface (opposite surface) 102 Connecting member (connecting member) 102f, 602f (Edge of top surface of connecting member) 102t (Connecting member) top surface (opposite surface) SB, SB1, SB2 (pouch) sides

Claims

1. A container for containing powder, a flexible pouch having a bottom and sides extending from the bottom to form an opening; a communication member provided on the inside of the opening side of the side portion and having a communication portion that communicates the inside and outside of the pouch, the communication member has an opposing surface facing the bottom portion and a welding portion welded to the inside of the side portion, The side portion has a fold forming portion that forms a fold shape along an edge portion of the opposing surface of the communication member, The welded portion is a first welded portion extending outward from the edge portion in a first direction along which the fold of the folded shape extends; a second welded portion extending outward from the edge portion in a direction along the first direction; Equipped with The container, wherein the first welded portion and the second welded portion are arranged on different sides of the communication member in the first direction.

2. The edge of the opposing surface is provided with a linear portion having a linear shape extending in a direction along the first direction, The container according to claim 1 , wherein the linear portion is located between the first welded portion and the second welded portion in the first direction.

3. The container according to claim 2 , wherein the linear portion includes a first linear portion and a second linear portion that are parallel to each other.

4. When the communicating member is viewed along a height direction connecting the opening side and the bottom side, the outer shape of the opposing surface is hexagonal, 4. The storage container according to claim 1, wherein the first welded portion and the second welded portion are provided at a pair of opposing corners of the hexagon.

5. When the communicating member is viewed along a height direction connecting the opening side and the bottom side, The opposing surface is a first linear portion; a second linear portion having one end connected to one end of the first linear portion so as to form a first interior angle with the first linear portion; a third straight section; and a fourth linear portion, one end of which is connected to one end of the third linear portion so as to form a second interior angle with the third linear portion; a first curved portion connecting the other end of the first linear portion and the other end of the third linear portion; a second curved portion connecting the other end of the second straight portion and the other end of the fourth straight portion; 2. The storage container according to claim 1, wherein the storage container has an irregular shape comprising:

6. The container according to claim 5 , wherein the first interior angle and the second interior angle are both obtuse angles.

7. The welded portion is a first welded portion extending outward from a position corresponding to the vertex of the first interior angle; a second welded portion extending outward from a position corresponding to the vertex of the second interior angle; The storage container according to any one of claims 5 to 6, characterized in that it comprises:

8. 8. The container according to claim 1, wherein the pouch contains a developer used in an image forming operation.

9. A container for containing powder, a flexible pouch having a bottom and sides extending from the bottom to form an opening; a communication member provided on the inside of the opening side of the side portion and having a communication portion that communicates the inside and outside of the pouch, the communication member has an opposing surface facing the bottom portion, The side portion is formed with a folded shape along an edge portion of the opposing surface of the communication member, A second folded shape is formed on the side portion at a position that is a predetermined distance away from the folded shape toward the bottom portion, The storage container, wherein a third fold shape is formed on the side portion, connecting the fold shape and the second fold shape.

10. a container according to any one of claims 1 to 9, in which a developer is contained; an image forming apparatus including a mounting portion to which the storage container is mounted, an image forming system that performs an image forming operation using the developer supplied from the developer container;

11. In a posture during use, the mounting portion is provided on an upper side of the image forming apparatus, The storage container comprises:

11. The image forming system according to claim 10, wherein the developer supply unit is attached to the attachment portion in an orientation in which the bottom portion is positioned upward in the direction of gravity and the opening is positioned downward in the direction of gravity, and the developer is supplied to the image forming device.

12. 12. The image forming system according to claim 10, wherein the container is attached to and detached from the attachment portion in a direction parallel to the direction of gravity.

13. The storage container comprises: When the image forming operation is not being performed, the developer is supplied to the image forming apparatus by being attached to the attachment portion, and 13. The image forming system according to claim 10, wherein the image forming device is detached from the attachment portion before the image forming operation is started.

14. 14. The image forming system according to claim 10, wherein the developer contained in the container is a non-magnetic one-component developer.

Images