Toner container and image forming device

Abstract

An image forming device according to the present invention comprises a device main body and an air supply unit for supplying air. The device main body includes: a cartridge including a container that constitutes a first chamber for storing toner, wherein a filter that allows the passage of air and obstructs the passage of toner forms as least a portion of the bottom surface of the container; an attachment part to which the cartridge can be attached; and a toner storage part that stores the toner supplied from the cartridge attached to the attachment part. The attachment part includes a wall part that constitutes a second chamber having the filter as the upper surface in a state in which the cartridge is attached to the attachment part, the wall part being provided with an intake port for introducing air from the air supply unit into the second chamber.

Description

Toner container and image forming apparatus

[0001] The present invention relates to a toner container that is detachable from an image forming apparatus, and to an image forming apparatus that forms an image on a recording material.

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-249151 describes a toner supply unit that includes an air pump for fluidizing toner in a toner tank and a diaphragm pump for sucking toner from the toner tank.

[0003] Another aspect of the present invention is a toner container that is detachable from an image forming device, comprising: a container frame having a first opening that leads to the outside of the toner container and a second opening that is larger in area than the first opening; and a filter that covers the second opening and allows air to pass through but prevents toner from passing through, wherein a toner storage chamber for storing toner is composed of the container frame and the filter, and when the toner container is in an attached position, the second opening is located on the bottom surface of the container frame, and the filter forms part of the outer surface of the toner container.

[0004] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment.

[0005] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the process cartridge according to the first embodiment.

[0006] 3A and 3B are cross-sectional views of the toner cartridge according to the first embodiment.

[0007] 4A and 4B are cross-sectional views of a toner cartridge according to a modified example.

[0008] 5A and 5B are cross-sectional perspective views of the toner cartridge according to the first embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the filter member according to the first embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view of the toner cartridge according to the first embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 8 is a diagram of the toner cartridge according to the first embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the toner cartridge and the process cartridge according to the first embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a toner cartridge according to a modified example.

[0014] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a toner cartridge according to a modified example.

[0015] 12A and 12B are cross-sectional views of the mounting portion and the toner cartridge according to the first embodiment.

[0016] 13A and 13B are cross-sectional views of a mounting portion and a toner cartridge according to a modified example.

[0017] 14A and 14B are cross-sectional views of a mounting portion and a toner cartridge according to a modified example.

[0018] 15A to 15C are explanatory diagrams of the toner cartridge according to the first embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a toner cartridge according to the second embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a toner cartridge according to a modified example.

[0021] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a toner cartridge according to the third embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a toner cartridge according to a modified example.

[0023] 20A and 20B are cross-sectional views of a toner cartridge according to a modified example.

[0024] 21A and 21B are cross-sectional perspective views of the toner cartridge according to the fourth embodiment.

[0025] 22A and 22B are cross-sectional views of the toner cartridge according to the fifth embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of an image forming apparatus according to a fifth embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of a toner cartridge and a process cartridge according to the fifth embodiment.

[0028] 25A and 25B are cross-sectional views of the toner cartridge according to the fifth embodiment.

[0029] 26A and 26B are cross-sectional views of a toner cartridge according to a modified example.

[0030] 27A and 27B are cross-sectional views of a toner cartridge according to a modified example.

[0031] 28(a) to 28(d) are explanatory diagrams of the toner cartridge according to the fifth embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a toner cartridge according to the sixth embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a toner cartridge according to a modified example.

[0034] 31A and 31B are cross-sectional views of a toner cartridge according to a modified example.

[0035] 32A and 32B are cross-sectional perspective views of the toner cartridge according to the seventh embodiment.

[0036] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0037] In the following description, examples of image forming apparatuses include copiers, printers, multifunction peripherals, commercial printing machines, etc. Image forming apparatuses form images on recording media based on image information input from an external computer or image information read from an original. Sheet materials of various materials and shapes are used as recording media, including paper such as plain paper and cardboard, plastic film, coated paper, specially shaped sheets such as envelopes and index paper, and cloth.

[0038] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a cross-sectional configuration of an image forming apparatus IF according to Example 1. Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a process cartridge B provided in the image forming apparatus IF.

[0039] As shown in Figure 1, the image forming apparatus IF comprises an apparatus main body A, a process cartridge B, and a toner cartridge C. The process cartridge B and the toner cartridge C are detachably mounted in the apparatus main body A. The apparatus main body A is the portion of the image forming apparatus IF excluding the process cartridge B and the toner cartridge C. The image forming apparatus IF forms an image on a sheet P, which is a recording medium, using the process cartridge B as an image forming means or process unit. <Overall Configuration of the Image Forming Apparatus>

[0040] As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus IF of this embodiment is a laser beam printer that forms an image on a sheet P by an electrophotographic process using a laser beam L and toner T as a developer.

[0041] The apparatus main body A includes a laser scanner 3 as an exposure means or an exposure unit, a transfer roller 7 as a transfer means or a transfer unit, and a fixing device 9 as a fixing means. The apparatus main body A also includes a sheet tray 4 as a sheet storage section, a pickup roller 5a as a feeding means or a feeding unit, a conveying roller pair 5b, a discharge roller pair 5c as a discharge means or a discharge unit, and a discharge tray 10 as a sheet stacking section.

[0042] The apparatus main body A is provided with a sheet transport path along which the sheet P is transported from the sheet tray 4 to the discharge tray 10. In the movement direction of the sheet P along the sheet transport path, the sheet tray 4, pickup roller 5a, pair of transport rollers 5b, transfer roller 7, fixing device 9, pair of discharge rollers 5c, and discharge tray 10 are arranged in this order.

[0043] The fixing device 9 includes a heating roller 9a as a heating member (fixing member), a pressure roller 9b as a pressure member, and a heat source (not shown). The pressure roller 9b contacts the outer surface of the heating roller 9a and forms a nip (fixing nip) with the heating roller 9a. Examples of heat sources include a ceramic heater with a heating resistor pattern printed on a ceramic substrate, a halogen lamp that emits radiant heat, or a coil unit that heats a conductive layer in the heating roller 9a using the principle of induction heating. The heating member (fixing member) may also be a cylindrical film member or an endless belt member stretched over multiple rollers.

[0044] 2, the process cartridge B has a photosensitive drum 1 as a photosensitive member and a charging roller 11 as a charging means or charging unit. The photosensitive drum 1 functions as an image carrier that carries a latent image and a toner image. The photosensitive drum 1 is a photosensitive member in which a photosensitive layer made of an organic photosensitive material or the like is formed on the outer periphery of a base body molded into a drum shape (cylindrical shape).

[0045] The process cartridge B also has a developing unit B1 as a developing means and a cleaning blade 14 as a cleaning means or cleaning unit. The developing unit B1 includes a developing roller 2, a supply roller 6, a toner chamber 12, an agitating member 13, and a developing blade 15. The developing roller 2 is a developer carrier that carries toner T as a developer and rotates to supply the toner T to the photosensitive drum 1. The supply roller 6 is a supply member that supplies toner T to the developing roller 2. The toner chamber 12 is a storage space (toner storage section) that stores toner T. The toner chamber 12 is formed inside the frame 22 of the developing unit B1. The agitating member 13 is disposed within the toner chamber 12 and is rotatable to agitate and homogenize the toner T stored in the toner chamber 12. The developing blade 15 is a regulating member that regulates the amount of toner T carried by the developing roller 2.

[0046] The charging roller 11 that performs charging processing, the laser scanner 3 that performs exposure processing, the developing roller 2 that performs development processing, and the transfer roller 7 that performs transfer processing are all examples of process means that act on the photosensitive drum 1 in the electrophotographic process. A process cartridge refers to a unit that includes the photosensitive drum 1 and at least one process means that acts on the photosensitive drum 1 and is detachably attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus.

[0047] The process cartridge B also has an inlet 24 for receiving toner T replenished from the toner cartridge C, and an exhaust section 26 for exhausting air from the toner chamber 12 to the outside. The inlet 24 is provided in the upper part of the side wall of the frame 22 of the developing unit B1, and the exhaust section 26 is provided on the top surface of the frame 22. The exhaust section 26 includes one or more openings (ventilation holes) formed on the top surface of the frame 22 and a filter 26a attached to cover the ventilation holes. The filter 26a is a breathable sheet-like member (ventilation member), such as a nonwoven fabric. The filter 26a allows air to pass through while preventing toner T from passing through.

[0048] The process cartridge B receives toner T from the toner cartridge C. The toner cartridge C will be described later. <Flow of Image Forming Operation>

[0049] The following describes the flow of a series of operations (image forming operations) in which the image forming apparatus IF forms an image on the sheet P while conveying the sheet P. When the image forming apparatus IF receives image information and an instruction to start image formation on the sheet P, a control unit installed in the apparatus main body A starts the image forming operation.

[0050] When the image forming operation starts, the photosensitive drum 1 is rotated at a predetermined peripheral speed (process speed) in the direction of arrow R in Figure 1. The charging roller 11 charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 1 to a uniform potential. The laser scanner 3 irradiates the photosensitive drum 1 with a laser beam L based on image information to perform exposure, and writes an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 1.

[0051] Toner T contained in the toner chamber 12 is sent toward the sponge-like supply roller 6 by the agitator 13. The toner T is supplied to the development roller 2 by the supply roller 6, carried on the surface of the development roller 2, and further formed into a thin layer on the surface of the development roller 2 by the development blade 15. As the development roller 2 rotates, the toner T reaches the development area where the development roller 2 and the photosensitive drum 1 face each other. In the development area, the toner T is transferred from the development roller 2 to the surface of the photosensitive drum 1 in accordance with the potential distribution on the surface of the photosensitive drum 1. As a result, the electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 1 is developed into a toner image.

[0052] In parallel with this process, the sheet P is fed at a timing synchronized with the exposure process by the laser scanner 3. A pickup roller 5a shown in Fig. 1 feeds the sheet P stacked on the sheet tray 4 from the sheet tray 4. A pair of transport rollers 5b receives the sheet P from the pickup roller 5a and transports the sheet P to a transfer portion formed between the photosensitive drum 1 and a transfer roller 7. A bias voltage is then applied to the transfer roller 7, so that the toner image is transferred from the photosensitive drum 1 to the sheet P.

[0053] The sheet P onto which the toner image has been transferred is transported along a transport guide 8 to a fixing device 9. The fixing device 9 applies heat and pressure to the toner image on the sheet P while nipping and transporting the sheet P between a heating roller 9a and a pressure roller 9b, thereby fixing the image to the sheet P. The sheet P which has undergone the image fixing process is discharged by a pair of discharge rollers 5c onto a discharge tray 10 provided at the top of the apparatus main body A, and is stacked thereon. <Toner Cartridge>

[0054] The toner cartridge C according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0055] 3A and 3B are cross-sectional views of the toner cartridge C. Fig. 3A shows a state in which the shutter member 30 seals the discharge port 27b provided on the side surface of the cartridge frame 32. Fig. 3B shows a state in which the shutter member 30 opens the discharge port 27b.

[0056] Fig. 5(a) is a cross-sectional perspective view of the toner cartridge C cut along the X-Y plane at the center of the toner cartridge C in the Z direction. Fig. 5(b) is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a state in which a part of the toner cartridge C has been disassembled. Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the filter 18. Fig. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a part of the toner cartridge C (the joint between the filter 18 and the cartridge frame 32). Fig. 8 is a plan view of the toner cartridge C as seen from the -Y side. Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the toner cartridge C and the process cartridge B.

[0057] In each of the figures from Fig. 3(a) onwards, the toner cartridge C is assumed to be in the same position as when it is installed in the apparatus main body A. In addition, in each of the figures from Fig. 3(a) onwards, the X direction, Y direction and Z direction are defined as follows: The Y direction is a direction parallel to the vertical direction (direction of gravity). The X direction is a direction perpendicular to the Y direction and is the horizontal direction in Fig. 1 (left-right direction in the figure). The Z direction is a direction perpendicular to both the X direction and the Y direction and is the depth direction in Fig. 1.

[0058] Furthermore, as necessary, the side indicated by the arrow "X" in the X direction will be referred to as the "+X side," and the opposite side will be referred to as the "-X side." Similarly, the side indicated by the arrow "Y" in the Y direction will be referred to as the "+Y side," and the opposite side will be referred to as the "-Y side." The side indicated by the arrow "Z" in the Z direction will be referred to as the "+Z side," and the opposite side will be referred to as the "-Z side." The -Y side is the lower side in the vertical direction (the side toward the direction of gravity), and the +Y side is the upper side in the vertical direction (the side opposite the direction of gravity).

[0059] First, the overall configuration of the toner cartridge C will be described. As shown in Figure 3(a), the toner cartridge C has a cartridge frame 32 (container frame), a filter 18, a discharge pipe 27, and a shutter member 30. The filter 18 is a breathable sheet-like member (filter member, ventilation member). The cartridge frame 32 and the filter 18 form a toner storage chamber 16, which is a storage space (first chamber) that stores toner T.

[0060] In other words, the cartridge frame 32 (container frame) and the filter 18 constitute a container that forms a first chamber for accommodating toner T. The toner accommodating chamber 16 is the space inside the toner cartridge C. The filter 18 forms at least a part of the bottom surface of the toner accommodating chamber 16.

[0061] The discharge pipe 27 is attached to the cartridge frame 32. The discharge pipe 27 forms a flow path 27d, which is a space that communicates with the toner storage chamber 16 and the space outside the toner cartridge C. The flow path 27d is a flow path through which the toner T flows from the toner storage chamber 16 to the outside of the toner cartridge C.

[0062] 5A and 5B, the cartridge frame 32 has an upper surface 322 facing upward, side surfaces 321 extending downward in the vertical direction (Y direction) from each side of the outer edge of the upper surface 322, and an opening 320 that opens downward (toward the -Y side). A flange 32a is provided on the edge of the cartridge frame 32 facing the filter 18 (the edge of the opening 320) as a support portion that supports the filter 18. The area of ​​the opening 320 (the opening of the container frame, the second opening) is larger than the area of ​​the discharge port 27b (the first opening) that leads to the outside of the toner cartridge C.

[0063] The filter 18 has an outer edge 18a that faces the flange 32a of the cartridge frame 32. In this embodiment, the outer edge 18a is formed in a flange shape that extends away from the toner storage chamber 16 from the upper end of a wall surface that rises substantially vertically upward (toward the +Y side) from the outer edge of a surface (an inclined portion 18c described below) that forms the bottom surface of the toner storage chamber 16. An end surface 32a1 on the -Y side of the flange 32a of the cartridge frame 32 and an end surface 18a1 on the +Y side of the outer edge 18a of the filter 18 face each other in the Y direction.

[0064] When viewed in the Y direction, the flange portion 32a of the cartridge frame 32 and the outer edge portion 18a of the filter 18 are provided so as to go around the toner storage chamber 16. In this embodiment, each of the flange portion 32a and the outer edge portion 18a is substantially rectangular, having two sides extending in the Z direction on the +X side and the −X side of the toner storage chamber 16, and two sides extending in the X direction on the +Z side and the −Z side of the toner storage chamber 16.

[0065] By joining the flange portion 32a and the outer edge portion 18a, the opening 320 of the cartridge frame 32 is covered by the filter 18. This forms the toner storage chamber 16 as a space surrounded by the cartridge frame 32 and the filter 18. In this embodiment, the toner storage chamber 16 is continuous with the space outside the toner cartridge C via the pores of the filter 18 and the flow path 27d inside the discharge pipe 27.

[0066] The flange portion 32a and the outer edge portion 18a are joined together so that air and toner do not leak from the gap between them to the outside of the toner cartridge C. The method for joining the flange portion 32a and the outer edge portion 18a is not particularly limited, and can be selected from ultrasonic welding, heat welding, adhesion using an adhesive such as a hot melt adhesive, or mechanical joining using screws or the like.

[0067] As shown in Figure 7, the flange portion 32a and the outer edge portion 18a may be joined together with a seal portion 34 sandwiched between their end faces 18a1, 32a1. By sealing the gap between the flange portion 32a and the outer edge portion 18a with the seal portion 34, it is possible to make it more difficult for air and toner to leak to the outside of the toner cartridge C. The seal portion 34 may be a flexible (elastic) annular member made of silicone rubber or other rubber. The seal portion 34 may also be, for example, an adhesive (hot melt adhesive) that bonds the flange portion 32a and the outer edge portion 18a together.

[0068] The outer edge 18a of the filter 18 may be formed by extending the surface of the filter 18 that forms the bottom surface of the toner storage chamber 16 toward the outer periphery. Also, instead of joining the end faces of the cartridge frame 32 and the filter 18 that face each other in the Y direction, the end faces that face each other in a direction intersecting the Y direction may be joined together.

[0069] 8 shows the toner cartridge C viewed vertically upward (+Y direction) in the orientation of the toner cartridge C when it is attached to the attachment portion 31. When the toner cartridge C is attached to the attachment portion 31, an opening 320 is provided on the bottom surface of the cartridge frame 32, and the filter 18 covering the opening 320 forms part of the outer surface of the toner cartridge C. In other words, when the toner container is in the attached orientation, the second opening is provided on the bottom surface of the container frame, and the filter forms part of the outer surface of the toner container.

[0070] When the toner cartridge C is viewed vertically upward (+Y direction) as shown in Figure 8, it is desirable that most of the filter 18 be exposed. "Most of the filter" means 50% or more (more than half), preferably 80% or more, and more preferably 90% or more of the area of ​​the filter 18 when the toner cartridge C is viewed vertically upward (+Y direction). In this embodiment, when the toner cartridge C is viewed vertically upward (+Y direction) as shown in Figure 8, the entire filter 18 is exposed.

[0071] Furthermore, when the toner cartridge C is viewed vertically upward (in the +Y direction), it is preferable that at least the entire area of ​​the filter 18 that forms the bottom surface of the toner storage chamber 16 is exposed. In this embodiment, the area of ​​the filter 18 that forms the bottom surface of the toner storage chamber 16 is the entire inclined portion 18c and the lowest portion 18b.

[0072] The larger the exposed area of ​​the filter 18 when the toner cartridge C is viewed vertically upward (+Y direction), the larger the exposed area of ​​the filter 18 relative to the air chamber 17 (described later) when the toner cartridge C is attached to the attachment portion 31. This allows the toner to flow over a wider area at the bottom of the toner storage chamber 16, making it less likely for the toner to accumulate in the corners of the toner storage chamber 16 when the remaining toner amount is low, and allows the toner to be more efficiently discharged from the toner cartridge C.

[0073] When the toner cartridge C is viewed vertically upward (+Y direction), it is preferable that at least a central portion 180 of the filter 18 is exposed. The central portion 180 of the filter 18 is an area including points defined by the central positions X0 and Z0 of the bottom surface of the toner storage chamber 16 in the X and Z directions. In this embodiment, the central portion 180 of the filter 18 coincides with the lowermost portion 18b described below. The central portion 180 (lowermost portion 18b) of the filter 18 is the portion that faces the inlet 27a of the discharge pipe 27 in the vertical direction (Y direction).

[0074] As shown in FIG. 6 , the filter 18 forms the bottom surface of the toner storage chamber 16. The filter 18 has an inclined portion 18c that slopes toward the lowest portion 18b. That is, at least a portion of the bottom surface of the toner storage chamber 16 is an inclined surface that slopes relative to a horizontal plane perpendicular to the vertical direction (Y direction). In other words, the inclined portion of the filter member is inclined so that the portion of the filter member facing the inlet in the vertical direction is the lowest portion, and the height in the vertical direction decreases as the portion approaches the lowest portion in the horizontal plane perpendicular to the vertical direction. The inclined portion 18c enables toner in the toner storage chamber 16 to be more efficiently discharged, as described below.

[0075] The filter 18 is made of a material that allows air to pass through but prevents the toner T from passing through. The filter 18 is made of a porous sheet material, for example, made of resin fibers, and has pores of a size and density that allows air to pass through but prevents the toner T from passing through. For example, a nonwoven fabric can be used as the filter 18. Alternatively, a filter material that can be formed by heat pressing, sintering, or the like can be used.

[0076] The discharge pipe 27 will now be described. As shown in Fig. 5A, the discharge pipe 27 is a cylindrical member (hollow member) that connects the toner accommodating chamber 16 with the outside of the toner cartridge C. The toner accommodating chamber 16, which is the internal space of the toner cartridge C, is connected to the external space of the toner cartridge C via a flow path 27d, which is the internal space of the discharge pipe 27.

[0077] One end of the discharge pipe 27 is an inlet 27a provided in the toner storage chamber 16. The other end of the discharge pipe 27 is an outlet 27b provided on the outer surface of the toner cartridge C. The discharge pipe 27 may be, for example, a tube made of a flexible (elastic) material such as silicone rubber or other rubber, or a pipe made of synthetic resin or metal.

[0078] In this embodiment, the inlet 27 a opens vertically downward (toward the −Y side). The outlet 27 b is provided on a side surface 321 of the cartridge frame 32 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction (the X direction in this embodiment).

[0079] The inlet 27a is provided near the bottom 18b of the filter 18. The outlet 27b is disposed at a position higher than the inlet 27a in the vertical direction (Y direction). That is, the outlet pipe 27 extends from a first position to a second position higher than the first position in the vertical direction (Y direction).

[0080] 3A, the discharge port 27b is provided with a shutter member 30 (sealing member). The shutter member 30 is movable (openable and closable) between a closed position where the discharge port 27b is closed and an open position where the discharge port 27b is opened.

[0081] When the toner cartridge C is not attached to the apparatus main body A (standalone state), the shutter member 30 is in the closed position. In this case, the shutter member 30 seals the discharge port 27b, preventing the toner T in the toner storage chamber 16 from leaking out of the toner cartridge C.

[0082] When the toner cartridge C is installed in the apparatus main body A, the shutter member 30 moves from the closed position to the open position, as shown in FIG. 3B. This allows the toner T to be discharged from the toner cartridge C. Furthermore, when the toner cartridge C is installed in the apparatus main body A, the discharge port 27b communicates with the receiving port 24 of the process cartridge B, as shown in FIG. 9. This allows the toner cartridge C and the process cartridge B to replenish the toner T in the toner storage chamber 16 to the process cartridge B. The discharge port 27b of the toner cartridge C and the receiving port 24 of the process cartridge B may be connected via a path provided in the apparatus main body A (for example, see the relay pipe 225 in Example 5).

[0083] 4(a) and 4(b), the discharge port 27b and the shutter member 30 may be provided on the upper surface 322 of the cartridge frame 32. FIG. 4(a) shows a state in which the shutter member 30 seals the discharge port 27c provided on the upper surface 322 of the cartridge frame 32. FIG. 4(b) shows a state in which the shutter member 30 opens the discharge port 27c. In this modified example, the receiving opening 24 of the process cartridge B is moved appropriately from the position in Example 1 (FIG. 9) to a position corresponding to the discharge port 27c.

[0084] The toner storage chamber 16 will now be described. As shown in Fig. 3(a) , the toner storage chamber 16 is a space surrounded by a cartridge frame 32 and a filter 18. The cartridge frame 32 forms the wall surface (ceiling surface) on the upper side (+Y side) of the toner storage chamber 16 and the wall surfaces on the +X side, -X side, +Z side, and -Z side of the toner storage chamber 16. The filter 18 forms the wall surface (bottom surface) on the lower side (-Y side) of the toner storage chamber 16.

[0085] As shown in Figures 5A and 5B, an inlet support portion 32b that supports the discharge pipe 27 is attached to the cartridge frame 32. The inlet support portion 32b extends substantially vertically downward (toward the -Y side) from the upper surface 322 of the cartridge frame 32 and is connected to the vicinity of the inlet 27a of the discharge pipe 27. More specifically, the discharge pipe 27 has a first portion 271 that extends substantially vertically upward (toward the +Y side) from the inlet 27a, and a second portion 272 that extends from the side surface 321, which is the -X side end face of the cartridge frame 32, toward the +X side toward the inside of the toner storage chamber 16. A lower portion of the inlet support portion 32b is connected to the first portion 271 of the discharge pipe 27. By supporting the first portion 271 of the discharge pipe 27, the inlet support portion 32b prevents the inlet 27a from shifting in position relative to the cartridge frame 32.

[0086] The first and second portions 271, 272 of the discharge pipe 27 are connected via a smoothly curved portion. The inlet 27a and the inlet support portion 32b are preferably positioned so as to overlap the lowermost portion 18b of the filter 18 when viewed vertically (Y direction), for example. The second portion 272, which is the portion of the discharge pipe 27 on the discharge outlet 27b side, is fitted into and held in a hole 32c formed in a side surface 321 of the cartridge frame 32.

[0087] The discharge pipe 27 and the inlet support portion 32b may be formed integrally with the cartridge frame 32, or may be separate members from the cartridge frame 32. The discharge pipe 27 and the inlet support portion 32b may be formed integrally with the cartridge frame 32, or may be separate members from each other.

[0088] 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a modified example of the discharge pipe and the support portion. The discharge pipe 27A of this modified example is formed as a single member integrally with the upper surface 322 of the cartridge frame 32. The discharge pipe 27A functions both as the discharge pipe 27 of the first embodiment, which forms the flow path 27d for the toner T, and as the inlet support portion 32b of the first embodiment, which supports the flow path.

[0089] FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing another modified example of the discharge pipe and the support portion. In this modified example, the discharge pipe 27B includes a first member 27B1 and a second member 27B2. One end of the first member 27B1 is provided with an inlet 27a. The second member 27B2 is integrally formed with the upper surface 322 of the cartridge frame 32 and is provided with a discharge port 27b at one end. The second member 27B2 is attached to the first member 27B1 so that the other end of the first member 27B1 communicates with the other end of the second member 27B2. The second member 27B2 functions as the discharge pipe 27 of the first embodiment, forming a part of the flow path 27d for the toner T, and as the inlet support portion 32b of the first embodiment, supporting the flow path. The first member 27B1 forms the other part of the flow path 27d.

[0090] In this manner, in this embodiment, when air flows into the toner storage chamber 16 from the outside of the toner cartridge C through the filter 18, the only path for the air to be discharged to the outside of the toner cartridge C is the flow path 27d formed by the discharge pipe 27. The advantages of this configuration will be described later. <Toner Discharge Mechanism>

[0091] Next, the mechanism by which the toner T is discharged from the toner cartridge C and replenished to the process cartridge B will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0092] In this embodiment, toner T is replenished from the toner cartridge C to the process cartridge B by the force of compressed air discharged by a pump 35 provided in the apparatus main body A. A power source other than the pump 35 can also be used. In this embodiment, the work (mechanical work) of discharging toner T from the toner cartridge C is achieved using only the pressure of the air discharged by the pump 35. In this embodiment, the discharge port 27b is not connected to a pump (powder pump, air pump, etc.) for sucking toner T from the toner cartridge C. In this embodiment, excluding unavoidable air leakage from a gap between a contact portion 32e and a contacted portion 31e (described later), an amount of air equal to the amount of air supplied from the pump 35 to an air chamber 17 (described later) is discharged from the discharge port 27b.

[0093] 1, the apparatus main body A includes a pump 35 (air pump) as an air supply unit or supply means for supplying air to an air chamber 17 (described later), an air supply port 20 to which air is supplied from the pump 35, and an air supply pipe 21 connecting the pump 35 and the air supply port 20. The pump 35 (air pump) may be, for example, a reciprocating pump, a diaphragm pump, or a rotary pump. Note that a fan, for example, may also be used as the supply means.

[0094] The "air" supplied from the supply means does not have to have the same composition as atmospheric air. For example, the pump 35 may be configured to supply dehumidified atmospheric air to the air chamber 17.

[0095] The apparatus main body A also has a mounting section 31 (cartridge installation section, cartridge interface section) into which the toner cartridge C is mounted. When the toner cartridge C is mounted in the apparatus main body A, an air chamber 17 is formed, which is a space surrounded by the toner cartridge C and the mounting section 31. The air supply port 20 opens into the air chamber 17. The air supply port 20 is an intake port that takes in air from a pump 35 (air supply section) into the air chamber 17 (second chamber).

[0096] When the toner cartridge C is mounted in the apparatus main body A, the filter 18 is exposed to the air chamber 17. More specifically, at least the entire area of ​​the filter 18 that forms the bottom surface of the toner storage chamber 16 is exposed to the air chamber 17. In other words, when the toner cartridge C is mounted in the apparatus main body A, at least a portion of the ceiling surface of the air chamber 17 is formed by the filter 18 of the toner cartridge C. In this way, the air chamber 17 is formed as a space surrounded by the toner cartridge C and the mounting portion 31, and the filter 18 is exposed to the air chamber 17, so that the toner cartridge C can discharge toner by the supply of air from the pump 35.

[0097] Specifically, compressed air discharged by the pump 35 is supplied to the air chamber 17 through the air supply port 20. Since the air chamber 17 is a substantially closed space except for the air supply port 20 and the pores of the filter 18, the air pressure (internal pressure) in the air chamber 17 increases due to the air from the pump 35. When the air pressure in the air chamber 17 increases, air flows into the toner storage chamber 16 through the filter 18.

[0098] The air that flows into the toner storage chamber 16 fluidizes the toner T within the toner storage chamber 16. The air mixed with the toner T then flows from the inlet 27a into the flow path 27d within the discharge pipe 27 and is discharged to the outside of the toner cartridge C through the discharge outlet 27b. The air mixed with the toner T then flows into the toner chamber 12 within the process cartridge B via the receiving port 24 of the process cartridge B, which is connected to the discharge outlet 27b. In this embodiment, since the toner T within the toner storage chamber 16 can be fluidized by air, no stirring member for stirring the toner T is provided within the toner storage chamber 16.

[0099] As shown in Figure 9, the process cartridge B is provided with the aforementioned exhaust section 26 (Figure 9) that connects the toner chamber 12 inside the process cartridge B with the outside of the process cartridge B, and the internal pressure of the toner chamber 12 is normally equal to atmospheric pressure. Therefore, when the internal pressure of the air chamber 17 and the toner storage chamber 16 increases due to air supplied from the pump 35, the internal pressure of the toner storage chamber 16 becomes higher than the internal pressure of the toner chamber 12. Therefore, the air mixed with the toner T moves from the toner storage chamber 16 to the toner chamber 12 via the exhaust pipe 27.

[0100] When the air mixed with the toner T flows into the toner chamber 12, the internal pressure of the toner chamber 12 temporarily rises. However, the exhaust section 26 allows the air inside the toner chamber 12 to escape to the outside of the process cartridge B, so the internal pressure of the toner chamber 12 drops. In this embodiment, after the internal pressure of the toner chamber 12 temporarily rises, the internal pressure of the toner chamber 12 quickly drops to a value substantially equal to atmospheric pressure.

[0101] As described above, when air flows from the outside of the toner cartridge C into the toner storage chamber 16 through the filter 18, the only path for the air to be discharged to the outside of the toner cartridge C is the flow path 27d formed by the discharge pipe 27. Therefore, when air flows from the air chamber 17 into the toner storage chamber 16 through the filter 18, the air is discharged to the outside of the toner cartridge C exclusively through the discharge pipe 27.

[0102] In this way, by providing only one air outlet for the toner cartridge C, the discharge pipe 27 (discharge port 27b), the air flow is stabilized, and the toner T in the toner storage chamber 16 can be more stably discharged to the outside of the toner cartridge C.

[0103] Furthermore, compared to the comparative configuration which transports the toner T using both a pump that ejects air to fluidize the toner T and a pump that sucks in the air mixed with the toner T, this embodiment does not require the latter pump, so it is possible to discharge the toner T from the toner cartridge C with a simpler configuration than the comparative configuration.

[0104] In this embodiment, the pump 35 is provided in the main assembly A of the apparatus, but the pump 35 may be attached to the process cartridge B or the toner cartridge C. <Connection between the main assembly of the apparatus and the toner cartridge>

[0105] Next, the structure of the connection portion between the apparatus main body A and the toner cartridge C will be described with reference to FIGS. 7, 8, and 12(a) and (b).

[0106] 12(a) and 12(b) are cross-sectional views showing the mounting portion 31 provided in the apparatus main body A and the toner cartridge C. Fig. 12(a) shows the state before the toner cartridge C is mounted in the mounting portion 31. Fig. 12(b) shows the state after the toner cartridge C is mounted in the mounting portion 31.

[0107] As shown in FIG. 12A , the toner cartridge C has a contact portion 32e. The mounting portion 31 has a contacted portion 31e and the air supply port 20. The contact portion 32e is provided to surround the periphery of the filter 18 when the toner cartridge C is viewed vertically upward. In other words, the frame has a contact portion provided to surround the periphery of the filter member when the cartridge is viewed vertically upward in the orientation of the cartridge when mounted in the mounting portion. The contact portion 32e is also an annular surface provided to surround the periphery of the filter 18 when the toner cartridge C is viewed vertically upward. The term "annular" does not necessarily mean a circular ring, but also refers to a strip-like region formed between two non-intersecting closed curves on the surface of an object. In other words, the frame has a ring-shaped surface provided to surround the periphery of the filter member when the cartridge is viewed vertically upward in the orientation of the cartridge in which the filter member forms the bottom surface of the storage space.

[0108] When the toner cartridge C is mounted in the mounting portion 31, the contact portion 32e comes into contact with the contacted portion 31e. When the contact portion 32e and the contacted portion 31e come into contact with each other, the air chamber 17 is formed as a space surrounded by the toner cartridge C and the mounting portion 31. Then, air is supplied from the pump 35 to the air chamber 17 via the air supply port 20, whereby toner is replenished from the toner cartridge C to the process cartridge B as described above.

[0109] 12A, in this embodiment, the toner cartridge C is mounted in the mounting portion 31 by being moved vertically downward from the upper side (+Y side) of the mounting portion 31 in the mounting direction (arrow D).

[0110] The abutting portion 32e is provided on the cartridge frame 32. The abutting portion 32e extends from the outer end of the flange portion 32a toward the −Y side (see also FIG. 7 ). The abutting portion 32e protrudes downward (toward the −Y side) in the vertical direction further than the outer edge portion 18a of the filter 18, which is joined to the flange portion 32a. This makes it possible to make it less likely that the outer edge portion 18a of the filter 18 will interfere with the abutting portion 32e and the abutted portion 31e.

[0111] 8, the abutment portion 32e is provided around the entire circumference of the cartridge frame 32. In other words, when the toner cartridge C is viewed in the Y direction, the abutment portion 32e is provided so as to surround the entire outer periphery of the exposed portion of the filter 18. In other words, when the toner cartridge C is viewed in the Y direction, the abutment portion 32e has a closed curved shape, and the filter 18 is exposed inside the area surrounded by the abutment portion 32e, and the filter 18 is not exposed outside the area surrounded by the abutment portion 32e.

[0112] In this embodiment, the contact portion 32e includes an end surface 32e1 on the -Y side of the cartridge frame 32. The contact portion 32e in this embodiment is formed as a flat surface with the same height in the Y direction around the entire periphery. In other words, the entire contact portion 32e is provided on the same imaginary plane (X-Z plane) perpendicular to the Y direction.

[0113] The contact portion 31e corresponds to the contact portion 32e of the toner cartridge C and is provided around the entire circumference of the air chamber 17 when viewed in the Y direction. As shown in Figures 12(a) and 12(b), the mounting portion 31 has a concave shape that opens toward the opposite side of the mounting direction (arrow D) of the toner cartridge C. The mounting portion 31 has a bottom wall portion 31b including a facing surface that faces the filter 18 with a gap in the Y direction when the toner cartridge C is mounted, and a side wall portion 31c extending from the outer periphery of the bottom wall portion 31b toward the +Y side. The side wall portion 31c is a side wall provided around the filter 18 when viewed in the direction of gravity and extends upward from the bottom wall portion 31b. An air supply port 20 (inlet) is provided in the bottom wall portion 31b or the side wall portion 31c (bottom wall portion 31b in this embodiment). The contact portion 31e is provided at the +Y side end of the side wall portion 31c.

[0114] When viewed in the Y direction, the abutted portions 31e are provided around the entire periphery of the space 31s inside the bottom wall portion 31b and the side wall portion 31c of the mounting portion 31. When the mounting portion 31 is viewed in the Y direction, the abutted portions 31e have a closed curved shape, and a space 31s that is open toward the +Y side is formed inside the area surrounded by the abutted portions 31e ( FIG. 12( a) ).

[0115] The contacted portion 31e includes an end surface 31e1 on the +Y side of the mounting portion 31. In this embodiment, the contacted portion 31e is formed in a flat shape with the same height in the Y direction around the entire periphery. In other words, the entire contacted portion 31e is provided on the same imaginary plane (X-Z plane) perpendicular to the Y direction.

[0116] When the toner cartridge C is mounted in the mounting portion 31, the filter 18 of the toner cartridge C covers the space 31s inside the mounting portion 31 from the +Y side. This forms an air chamber 17, which is a substantially closed space except for the air supply port 20 and the pores of the filter 18 ( FIG. 12B ). In this embodiment, the upper part of the mounting portion 31, which is concave downward (toward the -Y side) in the vertical direction, is closed by the toner cartridge C (particularly by the filter 18), thereby forming the air chamber 17 inside the concave shape. In other words, when the toner cartridge C is mounted, the bottom wall 31b and the side wall 31c function as walls configured to form the air chamber 17 (second chamber) with the filter 18 on the upper surface. In this embodiment, the air chamber 17 is surrounded by the filter 18, the bottom wall 31b, and the side wall 31c.

[0117] The discharge port 27b of the toner cartridge C is located outside the air chamber 17 formed between the toner cartridge C and the mounting portion 31. Therefore, when the toner cartridge C is mounted in the mounting portion 31, the discharge port 27b can be connected to the receiving port 24 (FIG. 9) of the process cartridge B without being obstructed by the mounting portion 31.

[0118] 13A and 13B are cross-sectional views of a modified toner cartridge C and mounting portion 31. The contact portion 32e of this modified example includes an end face 32e1 on the downstream side of the cartridge frame 32 in the mounting direction (arrow D) of the toner cartridge C, and an end face 32e2 facing outward from the toner cartridge C in directions (X direction, Z direction) intersecting the mounting direction (arrow D). The contacted portion 31e of this modified example includes an end face 31e1 on the upstream side of the mounting portion 31 in the mounting direction (arrow D) of the toner cartridge C, and an end face 31e2 facing inward in directions (X direction, Z direction) intersecting the mounting direction (arrow D).

[0119] As in the first embodiment, the end faces 31e1 and 32e1 are formed around the entire periphery of the air chamber 17 and are formed in a plane perpendicular to the Y direction. The end faces 31e2 and 32e2 are formed around the entire periphery of the air chamber 17 when viewed in the Y direction. The end faces 31e2 and 32e2 each have a shape (rectangular in this embodiment) that corresponds to the outer shape of the toner cartridge C when viewed in the Y direction. The widths in the X direction and Z direction of the rectangle formed by the end face 31e2 are substantially equal to the widths in the X direction and Z direction of the rectangle formed by the end face 32e2, respectively.

[0120] When viewed in a direction (for example, X direction or Z direction) intersecting the mounting direction (arrow D), an end face 32e2 of the contact portion 32e and an end face 31e2 of the contacted portion 31e at least partially overlap.

[0121] When the toner cartridge C is mounted in the mounting portion 31, an end face 32e1 of the toner cartridge C abuts against an end face 31e1 of the mounting portion 31, and an end face 32e2 of the toner cartridge C abuts against an end face 31e2 of the mounting portion 31. This forms an air chamber 17 between the toner cartridge C and the mounting portion 31 (FIG. 12B). The end faces 31e2 and 32e2 may be in a relationship in which the inner end face 32e2 is press-fit into the outer end face 31e2 so as to more easily reduce air leakage.

[0122] According to this modification, it is possible to make it more difficult for air to leak from the air chamber 17 compared to the first embodiment. Note that it is also possible for only the end surface 32e1 of the toner cartridge C and the end surface 31e1 of the mounting portion 31 to abut against each other, or for only the end surface 32e2 of the toner cartridge C and the end surface 31e2 of the mounting portion 31 to abut against each other.

[0123] 14(a) and (b) are cross-sectional views of a toner cartridge C and mounting portion 31 according to another modified example. The mounting portion 31 of this modified example has a cartridge accommodating portion 31f having an opening 31h on the side opposite to the mounting direction (arrow D) of the toner cartridge C, and a lid portion 31d that opens and closes the opening 31h. The toner cartridge C can be attached to and detached from the cartridge accommodating portion 31f via the opening 31h when the lid portion 31d is open (FIG. 14(a)).

[0124] The cartridge accommodating portion 31f is provided with a hole 31g that penetrates from the inside to the outside of the cartridge accommodating portion 31f. The tip (discharge port 27b) of the discharge pipe 27 of the toner cartridge C protrudes from the outer surface of the cartridge frame 32 in the mounting direction (arrow D). With the toner cartridge C mounted in the mounting portion 31, the protruding portion 27p of the discharge pipe 27 is inserted into the hole 31g of the cartridge accommodating portion 31f (FIG. 14(b)). This allows the discharge port 27b to be connected to the receiving port 24 (FIG. 9) of the process cartridge B outside the cartridge accommodating portion 31f.

[0125] The toner cartridge C has a contact portion 32e, and the mounting portion 31 has a contacted portion 31e. In this modification, the contact portion 32e is the outer peripheral surface of the protrusion 27p of the discharge pipe 27, and the contacted portion 31e is the inner peripheral surface of the hole 31g.

[0126] When the toner cartridge C is inserted into the cartridge housing portion 31f, the abutting portion 32e and the abutted portion 31e come into contact with each other. When the lid portion 31d is closed, the air chamber 17 is formed as a space surrounded by the toner cartridge C and the mounting portion 31. The air chamber 17 in this modified example is formed by the inner wall of the cartridge housing portion 31f, the inner wall of the lid portion 31d, the surface of the filter 18, and the surface of the cartridge frame 32. <Advantages of the Connection Portion>

[0127] 12, the contact portion 32e is a surface facing the mounting direction (arrow D), and the contacted portion 31e is a surface facing the opposite side to the mounting direction (arrow D). Therefore, by moving the toner cartridge C in the mounting direction (arrow D), the contact portion 32e can be brought into contact with the contacted portion 31e.

[0128] The contact area between the contacting portion 32e and the contacted portion 31e is formed in an annular (circumferential, closed curve) shape. Therefore, when the contacting portion 32e and the contacted portion 31e come into contact with each other, the air chamber 17, which is the space surrounded by the toner cartridge C and the mounting portion 31, becomes a substantially closed space except for the air supply port 20 and the pores of the filter 18. Therefore, when air is supplied to the air chamber 17 from the air supply port 20, the internal pressure of the air chamber 17 increases. Then, air flows from the air chamber 17 into the toner storage chamber 16 via the filter 18, and the toner T is discharged from the toner cartridge C by the mechanism described above.

[0129] In other words, when the toner cartridge C is mounted in the mounting portion 31, an air path is formed that runs from the air chamber 17 through the filter 18, the toner storage chamber 16, and the discharge pipe 27 to the discharge port 27b. For the air path to be properly formed, it is desirable that the toner cartridge C and the mounting portion 31 abut at an annular contact area, and that the filter 18 be located in an area of ​​the surface of the toner cartridge C on one side of the annular contact area that is exposed to the air chamber 17. It is also desirable that the discharge port 27b be located in an area of ​​the surface of the toner cartridge C on the other side of the annular contact area.

[0130] In the first embodiment, the area where the contacting portion 32e and the contacted portion 31e contact each other corresponds to the annular contact area. Therefore, the toner cartridge C and the mounting portion 31 can appropriately form an air path that runs from the air chamber 17 through the filter 18, the toner storage chamber 16, the discharge pipe 27, and the discharge port 27b.

[0131] 14(a) and 14(b), the area where the abutting portion 32e provided on the discharge pipe 27 abuts against the abutted portion 31e provided in the hole 31g of the mounting portion 31 corresponds to the above-mentioned annular abutment area. Therefore, even in the configuration of this modification, the toner cartridge C and the mounting portion 31 can appropriately form an air path that runs from the air chamber 17 through the filter 18, the toner storage chamber 16, the discharge pipe 27, and the discharge port 27b.

[0132] It is desirable that the contacting portion 32e and the contacted portion 31e be in close contact with each other along the entire circumference to prevent air from leaking through the gap between the contacting portion 32e and the contacted portion 31e. To achieve this, a biasing member may be provided that biases the toner cartridge C in the mounting direction (arrow D) relative to the mounting portion 31 so as to press the contacting portion 32e against the contacted portion 31e. Alternatively, a biasing member may be provided that biases the mounting portion 31 in the opposite direction from the mounting direction (arrow D) relative to the toner cartridge C so as to press the contacted portion 31e against the contacting portion 32e. The biasing member may be provided in either the toner cartridge C or the device main body A. The biasing member may be, for example, a spring or an elastic member such as rubber provided on the toner cartridge C so as to contact the device main body A when the toner cartridge C is mounted in the device main body A. The biasing member may also be a magnet.

[0133] 14(a) and 14(b), the circumferential length of the contact portion between the contact portion 32e and the contacted portion 31e is shorter than in the embodiment shown in Figures 12(a) and 12(b) and the modified example shown in Figures 13(a) and 13(b). This reduces the possibility of a gap occurring between the contact portion 32e and the contacted portion 31e due to, for example, a shape error in the parts, which has the advantage of making it less likely for air to leak from the air chamber 17.

[0134] 14(a) and 14(b), the protruding portion 27p of the exhaust pipe 27 may be configured to be press-fitted into the hole 31g, thereby further preventing air from leaking from the air chamber 17 through the gap between the contact portion 32e and the contacted portion 31e without using a biasing member.

[0135] 12(a) to 14(b), a sealing member may be disposed on either or both of the contact portion 32e and the contacted portion 31e in order to improve the adhesion between the contact portion 32e and the contacted portion 31e. The sealing member may be made of a material that has elasticity and is not breathable at least in a compressed state, such as rubber or sponge. <Transition of toner discharge state>

[0136] Next, the transition of the discharge state of the toner T in the toner storage chamber 16 will be described. Figures 15(a) to 15(c) are explanatory diagrams showing the discharge state of the toner T in the toner storage chamber 16. Figure 15(a) shows the initial state before the toner T contained in the toner storage chamber 16 is discharged. Figure 15(b) shows the state when some of the toner T contained in the toner storage chamber 16 in the initial state has been discharged. Figure 15(c) shows the state when more toner T in the toner storage chamber 16 has been discharged from the state in Figure 15(b).

[0137] 15A, when air is supplied to the air chamber 17, the air flows from the air chamber 17 into the toner storage chamber 16. Then, the toner T near the inlet 27a of the discharge pipe 27 flows into the discharge pipe 27 together with the air, and is discharged to the outside of the toner cartridge C from the discharge outlet 27b.

[0138] 15B, when the toner T near the inlet 27a is discharged and a gap is created, the pressure of the toner particles pressing against each other in the toner storage chamber 16 pushes the toner T around the gap toward the inlet 27a. As a result, the area near the inlet 27a is filled with toner T again. Furthermore, when the toner T in the toner storage chamber 16 decreases due to the discharge of toner T, the agent surface Ts of the toner T around the inlet 27a drops. When the slope of the agent surface Ts becomes steeper, the agent surface Ts collapses in the direction approaching the inlet 27a, causing the toner T to move.

[0139] As shown in Figure 15(c) , as the remaining amount of toner T further decreases, the pressure by which the toner particles press against each other decreases. In this embodiment, the filter 18 has an inclined portion 18c on the bottom surface of the toner storage chamber 16. The inclined portion 18c is formed so that the lowest portion 18b overlaps with the inlet 27a when viewed in the Y direction (vertical direction). The inclined portion 18c is inclined so that it becomes lower as it approaches the lowest portion 18b of the filter 18. In other words, the inclined portion 18c is inclined with respect to the horizontal plane so that it approaches the vertical direction (-Y side) as it approaches the inlet 27a in a horizontal plane (X-Z plane) perpendicular to the vertical direction.

[0140] Therefore, even when the remaining amount of toner T is low, the toner T fluidized by the air flowing into the toner storage chamber 16 through the filter 18 moves along the inclination of the inclined portion 18c toward the lowest portion 18b. Therefore, even when the remaining amount of toner in the toner storage chamber 16 is low, the toner T can be more stably discharged from the toner cartridge C. Furthermore, when the remaining amount of toner is low, the amount of toner remaining in the toner storage chamber 16 without being discharged from the toner cartridge C can be further reduced.

[0141] The inclination angle of the inclined portion 18c and the flow rate of air supplied by the pump 35 also affect the dischargeability (discharge capacity) of the toner T from the toner cartridge C. Increasing the angle of the inclined portion 18c is effective for discharging the toner T from the entire toner storage chamber 16. On the other hand, if the angle of the inclined portion 18c is too large, the volume of the toner storage chamber 16 will be reduced. It is also desirable to set the angle of the inclined portion 18c taking into consideration the fluidity of the toner T. For example, the angle of the inclined portion 18c can be made as small as possible to increase the volume of the toner storage chamber 16, within a range in which the amount of toner remaining in the toner storage chamber 16 without being discharged from the toner cartridge C is sufficiently small. This allows a larger amount of toner to be filled into the toner storage chamber 16. The angle of the inclined portion 18c may be less than the angle of repose of the toner T. <Advantages of the Inlet Support Port>

[0142] The advantages of the inlet support portion 32b of the toner cartridge C are as follows. As described above, the inlet 27a of the discharge port 27b is positioned to face the bottom portion 18b of the filter 18 in the vertical direction (Y direction) (FIG. 5A). Also, as described above, the toner T in the toner storage chamber 16 moves along the inclined portion 18c of the filter 18 toward the bottom portion 18b, making it possible to discharge the toner T even when the amount of toner remaining in the toner storage chamber 16 is low.

[0143] If the position of the inlet 27a is deviated from the lowest part 18b of the filter 18, there is a possibility that the discharge performance of the toner T will be reduced. Possible causes of the misalignment of the inlet 27a include, for example, a component shape error or an assembly error during the manufacture of the outlet 27b, or a misalignment of the discharge pipe 27 due to vibrations during image formation after the toner cartridge C is mounted in the apparatus main body A. If the position of the inlet 27a is deviated from the lowest part 18b of the filter 18, there is a possibility that the toner T will not be discharged even though toner T remains near the lowest part 18b when the remaining toner amount is low, as shown in Figure 15(c).

[0144] In this embodiment, the inlet support portion 32b is configured to support the vicinity of the outlet 27b of the outlet pipe 27. This reduces misalignment of the outlet 27b with respect to the lowest portion 18b of the filter 18. Therefore, even when the amount of toner remaining in the toner storage chamber 16 becomes low, the toner T can be more stably discharged from the toner cartridge C. Furthermore, when the amount of toner remaining becomes low, the amount of toner remaining in the toner storage chamber 16 without being discharged from the toner cartridge C can be further reduced.

[0145] It is preferable that the shortest distance from the connection between the inlet support portion 32b and the cartridge frame 32 to the inlet 27a of the discharge pipe 27 be shorter than the shortest distance from the outlet 27b of the discharge pipe 27 to the inlet 27a. This more reliably prevents the inlet 27a from shifting out of position. The inlet support portion 32b may be made of a member with higher rigidity than the discharge pipe 27.

[0146] Furthermore, the inlet support portion 32b may be a member that extends in a substantially vertical direction (substantially in the Y direction) at a position directly above the lowermost portion 18b of the filter 18 and the inlet 27a of the discharge pipe 27. This connects the first portion 271 (FIG. 5A) near the inlet 27a of the discharge pipe 27 to the upper surface 322 (FIG. 5A) of the cartridge frame 32 over the shortest distance, thereby more reliably preventing the inlet 27a from shifting position.

[0147] 10 and 11, even in a configuration in which the inlet support portion 32b functions as the discharge pipe 27, the cartridge frame 32 and the vicinity of the inlet 27a of the discharge pipe 27 are connected by a structure other than the peripheral wall of the discharge pipe 27. Even in such a structure, it is possible to restrict the positional deviation of the inlet 27a. <Summary of Example 1>

[0148] According to the first embodiment, by mounting the toner cartridge C in the mounting portion 31 of the apparatus main body A, an air chamber 17 is formed, surrounded by the toner cartridge C and the mounting portion 31, and the air chamber 17 exposes the filter 18. The toner cartridge C is then placed in a state in which it can discharge toner by the supply of air from the pump 35. In other words, in this embodiment, by mounting the cartridge in the mounting portion of the apparatus main body, a space (air chamber 17) is formed, surrounded by the cartridge and the mounting portion, and in which the filter member of the cartridge is exposed. The formation of this space allows the cartridge to be placed in a state in which, when air is supplied from the supply means to the space, the toner contained in the storage space can be discharged from the outlet together with the air flowing into the storage space through the filter member (a replenishable state).

[0149] According to this configuration, when the toner cartridge C is mounted in the mounting portion 31, the toner cartridge C and the mounting portion 31 form the air chamber 17, and air from the pump 35 is supplied to the air chamber 17, thereby realizing toner replenishment from the toner cartridge C. Therefore, there is no need to provide the air chamber 17 inside the toner cartridge C. For example, when the toner cartridge C is viewed vertically upward, there is no need to provide a bottom portion that covers the entire filter 18 except for the hole for connecting the air supply port 20 as part of the cartridge frame 32.

[0150] Thus, according to the first embodiment and its modifications, it is possible to provide a new form of image forming apparatus and cartridge that is configured to discharge toner from the cartridge using air.

[0151] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, for example, since it is not necessary to provide the bottom portion as part of the cartridge frame 32, it is possible to reduce the amount of synthetic resin and other materials used in molding the cartridge frame 32. This reduces the environmental impact during the manufacture of the toner cartridge C. Furthermore, it is possible to reduce the size and weight of the toner cartridge C.

[0152] Furthermore, compared to the case where the bottom portion is a separate part from the cartridge frame 32, the number of parts of the toner cartridge C can be reduced.

[0153] According to this embodiment, the cartridge is a cartridge having an internal storage space for storing toner, and includes a breathable filter member that forms the inner wall of the storage space, and an outlet for discharging toner to the outside of the cartridge. When the cartridge is in a position where the filter member forms the bottom of the storage space, the entire area of ​​the filter member that overlaps with the storage space is exposed when the cartridge is viewed vertically upward. Here, the "position of the cartridge where the filter member forms the bottom of the storage space" refers to, for example, the position when the toner cartridge C is installed in the installation portion 31.

[0154] According to this configuration, by attaching it to an image forming device main body having an appropriate configuration such as the attachment portion 31 described in this embodiment, it is possible to provide a cartridge that can properly discharge toner.

[0155] That is, according to the first embodiment, it is possible to provide a new form of cartridge having a configuration in which toner is discharged from the cartridge using air.

[0156] A toner cartridge C according to Example 2 will be described. The toner cartridge C of this example is detachably mounted in the apparatus main body A of the image forming apparatus IF described in Example 1, similar to the toner cartridge C of Example 1. Hereinafter, elements with the same reference numerals as Example 1 will be considered to have basically the same configurations and functions as those described in Example 1 unless otherwise specified, and differences from Example 1 will be mainly described. <Pressure relief path>

[0157] 16 is an explanatory diagram of a toner cartridge C according to Example 2. FIG. 16 shows the toner cartridge C mounted in the mounting portion 31 of the apparatus main body A. The toner cartridge C of this example has a pressure relief path serving as a third opening (communication portion) other than the discharge pipe 27 that connects the space inside the toner cartridge C (toner storage chamber 16) with the outside of the toner cartridge C. The pressure relief path of this example is a hole 40a formed in the upper surface 322 of the cartridge frame 32.

[0158] The hole 40a serves as an outlet through which air within the toner storage chamber 16 escapes to the outside of the toner cartridge C. By providing the hole 40a, it is possible to prevent toner T and air from leaking out of the toner cartridge C from unintended locations when the internal pressure of the toner storage chamber 16 increases. For example, consider a case where the toner cartridge C is gripped with a stronger force than expected before being installed in the apparatus main body A, causing the internal pressure of the toner storage chamber 16 to increase. In this case, the inlet 27a of the discharge pipe 27 and the filter 18 are covered with toner T, preventing the movement of air through the discharge pipe 27 or the filter 18. On the other hand, air can escape to the outside of the toner cartridge C through the hole 40a, which is not covered by toner T, thereby preventing the internal pressure of the toner storage chamber 16 from becoming excessively high.

[0159] Figure 17 is an explanatory diagram of a toner cartridge C according to a modified example. Figure 17 shows the toner cartridge C mounted in the mounting portion 31 of the apparatus main body A. The pressure relief path in this embodiment is a filter portion 40b formed on the upper surface 322 of the cartridge frame 32. The filter portion 40b includes a hole formed in the cartridge frame 32 and a filter attached to the cartridge frame 32 so as to cover this hole. The filter is made of a breathable sheet material that allows air to pass through but prevents toner T from passing through.

[0160] Even when the modified filter portion 40b is used, it is possible to prevent the toner T and air from leaking to the outside of the toner cartridge C from unintended locations when the internal pressure of the toner storage chamber 16 increases.

[0161] As the communication portion (third opening, pressure relief path), both the hole shape shown in the second embodiment (FIG. 16) and the filter shown in the modified example (FIG. 17) may be provided. Also, a single toner cartridge C may be provided with a plurality of pressure relief paths. <Airflow rate of pressure relief path>

[0162] The airflow rate of the pressure relief path (hole 40a) and a method for verifying this will be described using Figure 16. When air (arrow E1) is introduced into the air chamber 17 through the air supply port 20, the amount of air (arrow E2) discharged from the exhaust port 27b is the airflow rate G2, and the amount of air (arrow E3) discharged from the pressure relief path is the airflow rate G3. The pressure relief path (hole 40a) is provided so that the airflow rate G2 is greater than the airflow rate G3. In the modified example, the pressure relief path (filter 40b) is also provided so that the airflow rate G3 of the exhaust port 27b is greater than the airflow rate of the pressure relief path (filter 40b).

[0163] The relationship between the airflow rates G2 and G3 can be verified by introducing air into the air supply port 20 and measuring the volume of air discharged from the outlet 27b (airflow rate G2) and the volume of air discharged from the pressure relief path (airflow rate G3) within a certain period of time.

[0164] The advantages of the pressure relief path (communication portion) will be described with reference to Figure 16. As described above, when the toner cartridge C is mounted in the mounting portion 31, the air chamber 17 is formed, surrounded by the toner cartridge C and the mounting portion 31. When toner is replenished, air is supplied from the pump 35 (Figure 1) to the air chamber 17, increasing the internal pressure of the air chamber 17. When the air flows into the toner storage chamber 16 through the filter 18, the internal pressure of the toner storage chamber 16 also increases.

[0165] Here, the air flow rate G2 of the discharge port 27b is greater than the air flow rate G3 of the pressure relief path (hole 40a). Therefore, the air in the toner storage chamber 16, whose internal pressure has increased, tends to escape to the outside of the toner cartridge C mainly through the discharge pipe 27. Therefore, as in the first embodiment, the air in the toner storage chamber 16, together with the fluidized toner T, passes through the discharge pipe 27 and is discharged from the discharge port 27b, thereby enabling toner to be replenished from the toner cartridge C to the process cartridge B.

[0166] Even if there are multiple pressure relief paths or if the path includes a filter section 40b (Figure 17), if the air flow rate G2 of the discharge port 27b is greater than the air flow rate G3 of the pressure relief path, the toner cartridge C can similarly discharge toner T from the discharge port 27b.

[0167] In this way, even if the toner cartridge C has a path other than the discharge pipe 27 (discharge port 27b) that connects the toner storage chamber 16 to the outside of the toner cartridge C, stable discharge of the toner T is possible by configuring the air flow rate to meet specified conditions.

[0168] According to the second embodiment and its modified examples described above, it is possible to provide a new form of image forming apparatus and cartridge having a configuration in which toner is discharged from the cartridge using air.

[0169] A toner cartridge C according to Example 3 will be described. The toner cartridge C of this example is detachably mounted in the apparatus main body A of the image forming apparatus IF described in Example 1, similar to the toner cartridge C of Example 1. Hereinafter, elements with the same reference numerals as Example 1 will be considered to have basically the same configurations and functions as those described in Example 1 unless otherwise specified, and differences from Example 1 will be mainly described. <Extension Portion>

[0170] In this embodiment, a configuration for maintaining the posture of the toner cartridge C will be described. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the toner cartridge C according to this embodiment. The toner cartridge C has an extension 36. The extension 36 extends downward (toward the -Y side) beyond the lower end of the cartridge frame 32. The extension 36 protrudes downward (toward the -Y side) beyond the lowermost portion 18b of the filter 18. The extension 36, together with the cartridge frame 32, forms the frame of the toner cartridge C. In other words, the frame (32, 36) of the toner cartridge C includes the extension 36 as a container side wall provided around the filter 18 when viewed in the direction of gravity, and as a container side wall extending toward the bottom wall 31b of the mounting portion 31.

[0171] The upper end of the extension 36 is joined to the lower end (flange 32a) of the cartridge frame 32. The joining method is not particularly limited, and can be selected from ultrasonic welding, heat welding, adhesion using an adhesive such as a hot melt adhesive, or mechanical joining using screws or the like.

[0172] When viewed in the Y direction, the extension 36 is a hollow (annular, cylindrical) member with a hole in the center. The entire periphery of the upper end of the extension 36 is joined to the entire periphery of the flange 32a. When the toner cartridge C before being installed in the apparatus main body A is viewed in the Y direction, most of the filter 18 is exposed inside the extension 36.

[0173] At the lower end of the extension 36, an abutting portion 36e is provided which abuts against abutted portion 31e (FIGS. 20A and 20B) of the mounting portion 31 when the toner cartridge C is mounted in the mounting portion 31. The abutting portion 36e is the end face of the extension 36 in the mounting direction of the toner cartridge C (arrow D in FIG. 20A). The abutment between the abutting portion 36e and the abutted portion 31e will be described later. In this embodiment, the height of the abutting portion 36e in the Y direction is uniform around the entire circumference of the extension 36.

[0174] 19 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a modified toner cartridge C. The modified toner cartridge C has an extension 36 as part of the cartridge frame 32. The extension 36 extends downward (toward the −Y side) from the flange 32 a of the cartridge frame 32.

[0175] The extension 36 protrudes downward (toward the −Y side) from the lowest part 18 b of the filter 18. The extension 36 of this modified example is a container side wall provided around the filter 18 when viewed in the direction of gravity, and is another example of a container side wall extending toward the bottom wall 31 b of the attachment part 31.

[0176] When viewed in the Y direction, the extension 36 is formed in a hollow (annular, cylindrical) shape with a hole in the center. When the toner cartridge C is viewed in the Y direction before being installed in the apparatus main body A, most of the filter 18 (most of the bottom surface of the toner storage chamber 16) is exposed inside the extension 36.

[0177] At the lower end of the extension 36, an abutting portion 36e is provided which abuts against a contacted portion 31e (FIGS. 20A and 20B) of the mounting portion 31 when the toner cartridge C is mounted in the mounting portion 31. The abutment between the abutting portion 36e and the contacted portion 31e will be described later. In this embodiment, the height of the abutting portion 36e in the Y direction is uniform around the entire circumference of the extension 36.

[0178] Fig. 20(a) is an explanatory diagram showing the state before the toner cartridge C according to the modified example is mounted in the mounting portion 31. Fig. 20(b) is an explanatory diagram showing the state after the toner cartridge C according to the modified example is mounted in the mounting portion 31.

[0179] When the toner cartridge C according to the modified example is mounted in the mounting portion 31, the abutting portion 36e at the lower end of the extension portion 36 abuts against the abutted portion 31e of the mounting portion 31. This forms an air chamber 17, which is a space surrounded by the toner cartridge C and the mounting portion 31. In other words, in this modified example, the air chamber 17 (second chamber) is surrounded by the filter 18, the bottom wall portion 31b, and the extension portion 36 (container side wall). Similarly, in the case of the toner cartridge C according to the third embodiment, the abutting portion 36e at the lower end of the extension portion 36 abuts against the abutted portion 31e of the mounting portion 31, thereby forming the air chamber 17, which is a space surrounded by the toner cartridge C and the mounting portion 31. A sealing member may be provided on at least one of the abutting portion 36e and the abutted portion 31e to enhance adhesion between the abutting portion 36e and the abutted portion 31e. <Advantages of the Extension Portion>

[0180] In this embodiment and the modified example, the extension 36 protrudes downward below the bottom of the filter 18. Therefore, when the toner cartridge C is placed on a desk or the like, the filter 18 does not come into contact with the desk, reducing the possibility of the toner cartridge C becoming unstable. Also, the possibility of dirt adhering to the filter 18 and reducing its breathability is reduced.

[0181] Furthermore, in this embodiment and its modified examples, the abutment portion 36e is provided at the lower end of the extension portion 36 that protrudes downward (toward the -Y side) from the lowest portion 18b of the filter 18. Therefore, as shown in Figures 20(a) and 20(b), even when a flat mounting portion 31 is used, the air chamber 17 can be appropriately formed, making it easy to mount the toner cartridge C. In other words, by providing the extension portion 36, the position at which the toner cartridge C and the mounting portion 31 abut to form the air chamber 17 can be set at a position away from the joint between the cartridge frame 32 and the filter 18.

[0182] According to the third embodiment and its modifications described above, it is possible to provide a new form of image forming apparatus and cartridge that is configured to discharge toner from the cartridge using air.

[0183] A toner cartridge C according to Example 4 will be described. The toner cartridge C of this example is detachably mounted in the apparatus main body A of the image forming apparatus IF described in Example 1, similar to the toner cartridge C of Example 1. Hereinafter, elements with the same reference numerals as Example 1 will be considered to have basically the same configurations and functions as those described in Example 1 unless otherwise specified, and differences from Example 1 will be mainly described. <Protective member>

[0184] Fig. 21A is a perspective cross-sectional view of the toner cartridge C according to Example 4. Fig. 21B is a perspective cross-sectional view showing the toner cartridge C with the protective member 37 removed.

[0185] 21A, the toner cartridge C of this embodiment includes a protective member 37 (cover member) that protects the filter 18. The protective member 37 is attached to the cartridge frame 32 so as to cover at least a portion (preferably the entirety) of the filter 18 when the toner cartridge C is viewed in the Y direction.

[0186] The toner cartridge C has a contact portion 32e. The configuration of the contact portion 32e may be the same as that described in the first embodiment (FIGS. 12A and 12B), for example.

[0187] The protective member 37 is removable (separable) from the cartridge frame 32, or movable relative to the cartridge frame 32 to expose the filter 18. When the toner cartridge C is to be mounted in the mounting portion 31 of the apparatus main body A, the protective member 37 is removed beforehand (FIG. 21B). With the protective member 37 removed, the user moves the toner cartridge C in the mounting direction (arrow D) relative to the mounting portion 31. This causes the abutting portion 32e to abut against the abutted portion 31e of the mounting portion 31, forming the air chamber 17 (FIG. 12B). In other words, by removing the protective member 37, the toner cartridge C can be properly mounted in the mounting portion 31. <Advantages of the Protective Member>

[0188] If the filter 18 is made of a low-rigidity material such as nonwoven fabric, it is conceivable that the filter 18 may break and cause toner to leak if it comes into contact with a sharp object or otherwise receives a strong force. In this embodiment, the filter 18 is protected by the protective member 37, thereby reducing the possibility of the filter 18 breaking.

[0189] The material of the filter 18 is not limited to nonwoven fabric, and it is also possible to make it highly rigid by, for example, heat press molding or sintering. Increasing the strength of the filter 18 itself reduces the possibility of the filter 18 breaking. Even in this case, providing the protective member 37 of this embodiment reduces the possibility of dirt adhering to the filter 18 and reducing its breathability, for example, when the toner cartridge C is placed on a desk.

[0190] According to the fourth embodiment and its modifications described above, it is possible to provide a new form of image forming apparatus and cartridge that is configured to discharge toner from the cartridge using air.

[0191] A toner cartridge C2 and an image forming apparatus IF according to Example 5 will be described. Below, elements with the same reference numerals as Example 1 have basically the same configurations and functions as those described in Example 1 unless otherwise specified, and differences from Example 1 will be mainly described. <Toner Cartridge>

[0192] The toner cartridge C2 according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 22(a) and 22(b). Figure 22(a) is a cross-sectional view of the toner cartridge C2. Figure 22(b) is an enlarged view of the area circled in Figure 22(a). In Figures 22(a) and 22(b) and subsequent figures, the toner cartridge C2 is assumed to be in the same position as when it is installed in the apparatus main body A.

[0193] First, the overall configuration of the toner cartridge C2 will be described. As shown in Figures 22(a) and 22(b), the toner cartridge C2 has a cartridge frame 232 and a filter 218 (filter member). The filter 218 is a breathable sheet-like member (filter member, breathable member). The cartridge frame 232 and the filter 218 form a toner storage chamber 216, which is a storage space (toner storage section) that stores toner T. The toner storage chamber 216 is a space inside the toner cartridge C2. The filter 218 forms at least a portion of the bottom surface of the toner storage chamber 216.

[0194] The discharge pipe 227 is provided at the lower end of the toner cartridge C2. The discharge pipe 227 forms a flow path that connects the toner storage chamber 216 with the space outside the toner cartridge C2. The lower end of the discharge pipe 227 is a discharge port 219 through which the toner T is discharged to the outside of the toner cartridge C2. In this embodiment, the discharge pipe 227 is connected to a filter 218.

[0195] The filter 218 forms the bottom surface of the toner storage chamber 216. The filter 218 has an inclined portion 218c that is inclined toward the lowest portion 218b. In other words, at least a portion of the bottom surface of the toner storage chamber 216 is an inclined surface that is inclined with respect to the horizontal plane.

[0196] The bottommost portion 218b of the filter 218 is an opening 222 (the inlet of the discharge pipe 227) that is continuous with the discharge pipe 227. That is, in this embodiment, a hole that is connected to the discharge pipe 227 is provided in the bottom surface of the toner storage chamber 216, and at least a portion of the bottom surface is inclined with respect to the horizontal plane so as to slope downward (towards the -Y side) as it approaches the hole.

[0197] The filter 218 is formed from a material that allows air to pass through but prevents the passage of toner T. The filter 218 is formed from a porous sheet material made of, for example, resin fibers, with pores of a size and density that allows air to pass through but prevents the passage of toner T. For example, nonwoven fabric can be used as the filter 218. Alternatively, a filter material that is formed by heat pressing, sintering, or the like can be used.

[0198] The filter 218 and the discharge pipe 227 may be integrally formed using a common material. The discharge pipe 227 is a tubular member that does not have air permeability.

[0199] Next, the mechanism by which toner is discharged from the toner cartridge C2 will be described with reference to Figures 23 and 24. Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of the image forming apparatus IF to which the toner cartridge C2 according to this embodiment is attached. Figure 24 is a schematic diagram showing the toner cartridge C2 and process cartridge B attached to the apparatus main body A.

[0200] 23 , the apparatus main body A includes a pump 235 (air pump) as a supply means for supplying air to an air chamber 217, which will be described later. The apparatus main body A also includes an air supply port 220 to which air is supplied from the pump 235, and an air supply pipe 221 that connects the pump 235 and the air supply port 220. The pump 235 (air pump) may be, for example, a reciprocating pump, a diaphragm pump, or a rotary pump. Note that a fan, for example, may also be used as the supply means.

[0201] The apparatus main body A also has a mounting section 31 (cartridge installation section, cartridge interface section) into which the toner cartridge C2 is mounted. When the toner cartridge C2 is mounted in the apparatus main body A, an air chamber 217 is formed, which is a space surrounded by the toner cartridge C2 and the mounting section 231. An air supply port 220 is provided in the mounting section 231 and opens into the air chamber 217.

[0202] When toner cartridge C2 is attached to the apparatus main body A, filter 218 is exposed to air chamber 217. More specifically, at least the entire area of ​​filter 218 that forms the bottom surface of toner storage chamber 216 is exposed to air chamber 217. When toner cartridge C2 is attached to the apparatus main body A, at least a portion of the ceiling surface of air chamber 217 is formed by filter 218 of toner cartridge C2.

[0203] Compressed air discharged by pump 235 is supplied to air chamber 217 through air supply port 220. Because air chamber 217 is a substantially closed space except for air supply port 220 and the pores of filter 218, the air pressure (internal pressure) within air chamber 217 increases due to the air from pump 235. When the air pressure within air chamber 217 increases, air flows into toner storage chamber 216 through filter 218.

[0204] The air that has flowed into the toner storage chamber 216 fluidizes the toner T within the toner storage chamber 216. The air mixed with the toner T then flows into the flow path within the discharge pipe 227 and is discharged to the outside of the toner cartridge C2 through the discharge port 219. The air mixed with the toner T then flows into the toner chamber 12 within the process cartridge B via the receiving port 24 of the process cartridge B, which is connected to the discharge port 219.

[0205] In this embodiment, the discharge port 219 and the receiving port 24 are connected via a relay pipe 225 serving as a toner transport means (relay means). The relay pipe 225 may be provided in the apparatus main body A. In this case, when the process cartridge B is installed, one end of the receiving port 24 is connected to the relay pipe 225, and when the toner cartridge C2 is installed, the other end of the discharge port 219 is connected to the relay pipe 225. Note that the discharge port 219 and the receiving port 24 may also be directly connected.

[0206] 24, the process cartridge B is provided with an exhaust section 26 that connects the toner chamber 12 in the process cartridge B with the outside of the process cartridge B, and the internal pressure of the toner chamber 12 is normally equal to atmospheric pressure. Therefore, when the internal pressure of the air chamber 217 and the toner storage chamber 216 increases due to air supplied from the pump 235, the internal pressure of the toner storage chamber 216 becomes higher than the internal pressure of the toner chamber 12. Therefore, the air mixed with the toner T moves from the toner storage chamber 216 to the toner chamber 12 via the exhaust pipe 227 and the relay pipe 225.

[0207] When the air mixed with the toner T flows into the toner chamber 12, the internal pressure of the toner chamber 12 temporarily rises. However, the exhaust section 26 allows the air inside the toner chamber 12 to escape to the outside of the process cartridge B, so the internal pressure of the toner chamber 12 drops. In this embodiment, after the internal pressure of the toner chamber 12 temporarily rises, the internal pressure of the toner chamber 12 quickly drops to a value substantially equal to atmospheric pressure.

[0208] Although the pump 235 in this embodiment is provided in the main assembly A of the apparatus, the pump 235 may be provided in the process cartridge B or the toner cartridge C2. <Connection between the main assembly of the apparatus and the toner cartridge>

[0209] Next, the structure of the connection portion between the apparatus main body A and the toner cartridge C2 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0210] Figures 25(a) and (b) are cross-sectional views showing the mounting portion 231 and toner cartridge C2 provided in the apparatus main body A. Figure 25(a) shows the state before the toner cartridge C2 is mounted in the mounting portion 231. Figure 25(b) shows the state after the toner cartridge C2 has been mounted in the mounting portion 231.

[0211] 25A, the toner cartridge C2 has a first contact portion 132e and a first contact portion 232e. The mounting portion 231 has a first contacted portion 131e, a second contacted portion 231e, the air supply port 220, and a hole 231g.

[0212] When the toner cartridge C2 is mounted in the mounting portion 231, the first contact portion 132e contacts the first contacted portion 131e, and the second contact portion 232e contacts the second contacted portion 231e. The first contact portion 132e and the first contacted portion 131e come into contact, and the second contact portion 232e and the second contacted portion 231e come into contact, thereby forming an air chamber 217 as a space surrounded by the toner cartridge C2 and the mounting portion 231. The discharge pipe 227 of the toner cartridge C2 is inserted into the hole 231g, connecting the discharge port 219 to the relay pipe 225 (FIG. 24). Air is supplied from the pump 235 to the air chamber 217 via the air supply port 220, thereby replenishing toner from the toner cartridge C2 to the process cartridge B, as described above.

[0213] 25A, in this embodiment, the toner cartridge C2 is mounted in the mounting portion 231 by being moved vertically downward from the upper side (+Y side) of the mounting portion 231 in the mounting direction (arrow D).

[0214] The specific configurations of the second contact portion 232e and the second contacted portion 231e may be the same as the contact portion 32e and the contacted portion 31e described in the first embodiment.

[0215] The first contact portion 132e is provided on a flange portion that protrudes in a direction intersecting the installation direction (arrow D) from the outer periphery of the discharge pipe 227, which extends along the installation direction (arrow D). The first contact portion 132e is an annular surface facing the installation direction (arrow D). The first contact portion 132e is provided around the entire circumference of the discharge pipe 227. In this embodiment, the first contact portion 132e is flat and perpendicular to the Y direction.

[0216] The first abutment portion 131e is provided on the bottom surface 231b of the mounting portion 231. The first abutment portion 131e is a portion of the bottom surface 231b surrounding a hole 231g into which the discharge pipe 227 fits. In this embodiment, the first abutment portion 131e has a planar shape perpendicular to the Y direction.

[0217] 26(a) and 26(b) are cross-sectional views of the toner cartridge C2 and the mounting portion 231 according to a modified example. The second contact portion 232e includes an end face 232e1 on the downstream side of the cartridge frame 232 in the mounting direction (arrow D) of the toner cartridge C2, and an end face 232e2 facing outward from the toner cartridge C2 in a direction intersecting the mounting direction (arrow D). The second contacted portion 231e of this modified example includes an end face 231e1 on the upstream side of the mounting portion 231 in the mounting direction (arrow D) of the toner cartridge C2, and an end face 231e2 facing inward in the directions (X direction, Z direction) intersecting the mounting direction (arrow D).

[0218] The specific configurations of the second contact portion 232e and the second contacted portion 231e in this modified example may be the same as those described in the modified example (FIGS. 13(a) and 13(b)) of Example 1. According to this modified example, air is less likely to leak from the air chamber 217 compared to Example 5.

[0219] In the modified example of FIGS. 26(a) and 26(b), the first contact portion 132e is the outer peripheral surface of the discharge pipe 227, and the first contacted portion 131e is the inner peripheral surface of the hole portion 231g.

[0220] 27(a) and (b) are cross-sectional views of a toner cartridge C2 and an attachment portion 231 according to another modified example. The attachment portion 231 of this modified example has a cartridge accommodating portion 31f having an opening 231h on the side opposite to the attachment direction (arrow D) of the toner cartridge C2, and a lid portion 231d that opens and closes the opening 31h. The toner cartridge C2 can be attached to and detached from the cartridge accommodating portion 231f via the opening 231h when the lid portion 231d is open (FIG. 27(a)).

[0221] In this modification, the toner cartridge C2 has a first contact portion 132e, and the mounting portion 231 has a first contacted portion 131e. The toner cartridge C2 and mounting portion 231 of this modification do not have the second contact portion 232e and second contacted portion 231e of Example 5. In this modification, the first contact portion 132e is the outer peripheral surface of the discharge pipe 227, and the first contacted portion 131e is the inner peripheral surface of the hole 231g.

[0222] When the toner cartridge C2 is inserted into the cartridge housing portion 231f, the first contact portion 132e and the first contacted portion 131e come into contact with each other. When the lid portion 231d is closed, an air chamber 217 is formed as a space surrounded by the toner cartridge C2 and the mounting portion 231. The air chamber 217 in this modified example is formed by the inner wall of the cartridge housing portion 231f, the inner wall of the lid portion 231d, the surface of the filter 218, and the surface of the cartridge frame 232. <Advantages of the Connection Portion>

[0223] 25A and 25B, the first contact portion 132e and the second contact portion 232e are surfaces facing the mounting direction (arrow D), and the first contacted portion 131e and the second contacted portion 231e are surfaces facing the opposite side from the mounting direction (arrow D). Therefore, by moving the toner cartridge C2 in the mounting direction (arrow D), the first contact portion 132e and the second contacted portion 232e can be brought into contact with the first contacted portion 131e and the second contacted portion 231e, respectively.

[0224] The contact area between the first contact portion 132e and the first contacted portion 131e, and the contact area between the second contact portion 232e and the second contacted portion 231e are each formed in an annular shape (circumferential, closed curve shape). Therefore, when the first contact portion 132e and the first contacted portion 131e come into contact, and when the second contact portion 232e and the second contacted portion 231e come into contact, the air chamber 217, which is the space surrounded by the toner cartridge C2 and the mounting portion 231, becomes a substantially closed space except for the air supply port 220 and the pores of the filter 218. Therefore, when air is supplied to the air chamber 217 from the air supply port 220, the internal pressure of the air chamber 217 increases. Then, air flows from the air chamber 217 through the filter 218 into the toner storage chamber 216, and the toner T is discharged from the toner cartridge C2 by the mechanism described above.

[0225] In other words, when the toner cartridge C2 is mounted in the mounting portion 231, an air path is formed that runs from the air chamber 217 through the filter 218, the toner storage chamber 216, and the discharge pipe 227 to the discharge port 219. For the air path to be properly formed, it is desirable that the toner cartridge C2 and the mounting portion 231 abut at an annular contact area, and that the filter 218 be located in an area of ​​the surface of the toner cartridge C2 on one side of the annular contact area that is exposed to the air chamber 217. It is also desirable that the discharge port 219 be located in an area of ​​the surface of the toner cartridge C2 on the other side of the annular contact area.

[0226] In the fifth embodiment, the area where the first contact portion 132e and the first contacted portion 131e contact each other corresponds to the annular contact area. Therefore, the toner cartridge C2 and the mounting portion 231 can appropriately form an air path that runs from the air chamber 217 through the filter 218, the toner storage chamber 216, the discharge pipe 227, and the discharge port 219.

[0227] It is desirable that the first contact portion 132e and the second contact portion 131e be in close contact with each other along the entire circumference to prevent air leakage from the gap between the first contact portion 132e and the first contacted portion 131e. To achieve this, a biasing member may be provided to bias the toner cartridge C2 in the mounting direction (arrow D) relative to the mounting portion 231 so as to press the first contact portion 132e against the first contacted portion 131e. Alternatively, a biasing member may be provided to bias the mounting portion 231 in the opposite direction from the mounting direction (arrow D) relative to the toner cartridge C2 so as to press the first contacted portion 131e against the first contact portion 132e. The biasing member may be provided in either the toner cartridge C2 or the device main body A. The biasing member may be, for example, a spring or an elastic member such as rubber provided on the toner cartridge C2 so as to contact the device main body A when mounted in the device main body A. The biasing member may also be a magnet.

[0228] Similarly, it is desirable that the second contact portion 232e and the second contacted portion 231e are in close contact with each other along the entire circumference so that air does not leak from the gap between them. For this reason, the above-mentioned biasing member may be provided to bias either the toner cartridge C2 or the mounting portion 231 toward the other.

[0229] 26(a) and 26(b), the discharge pipe 227 may be press-fitted into the hole 231g, and the outer end surface 232e2 of the cartridge frame 232 may be press-fitted into the inner end surface 231e2 of the mounting portion 231. This allows the first contact portion 132e to be tightly fitted to the first contacted portion 131e, and the second contact portion 232e to be tightly fitted to the second contacted portion 231e, without using a biasing member. In other words, it is possible to prevent air from leaking from the air chamber 217 through the gap between the toner cartridge C2 and the mounting portion 231, without using a biasing member.

[0230] 27(a) and 27(b), the second contact portion 232e and the second contacted portion 231e can be omitted, compared to the fifth embodiment shown in FIGS. 25(a) and 25(b) and the modified examples shown in FIGS. 26(a) and 26(b). This makes it possible to form the air chamber 217 while reducing the number of contact areas between the toner cartridge C2 and the mounting portion 231, through which air may leak.

[0231] 25(a) to 27(b), a sealing member may be disposed on either or both of the first contact portion 132e and the first contacted portion 131e to improve the adhesion between the first contact portion 132e and the first contacted portion 131e. Also, a sealing member may be disposed on either or both of the second contact portion 232e and the second contacted portion 231e to improve the adhesion between the second contact portion 232e and the second contacted portion 231e. The sealing member may be made of a material that is elastic and not breathable at least in a compressed state, such as rubber or sponge. <Transition of Toner Discharge State>

[0232] Next, the transition of the discharge state of the toner T in the toner storage chamber 216 will be described. Figures 28(a) to 28(d) are explanatory diagrams showing the discharge state of the toner T in the toner storage chamber 216. Figure 28(a) shows the initial state before the toner T contained in the toner storage chamber 216 is discharged. Figure 28(b) shows the state when a portion of the toner T contained in the toner storage chamber 216 in the initial state has been discharged. Figure 28(c) shows the state when the toner T in the toner storage chamber 216 has been further discharged from the state in Figure 28(b). Figure 28(d) shows the state when the toner T in the toner storage chamber 216 has been further discharged from the state in Figure 28(c).

[0233] 28A, when air is supplied to the air chamber 217, the air flows from the air chamber 217 into the toner storage chamber 216. Then, the toner T near the opening 222 of the filter 218 flows into the discharge pipe 227 together with the air, and is discharged from the discharge port 219 to the outside of the toner cartridge C2.

[0234] 28(b) and 28(c), when the toner T near the opening 222 is discharged and a gap is created, the pressure of the toner particles pressing against each other in the toner storage chamber 216 pushes the toner T around the gap toward the opening 222. As a result, the area near the opening 222 is filled with toner T again. Furthermore, when the toner T in the toner storage chamber 216 decreases due to the discharge of toner T, the agent surface Ts of the toner T above the opening 222 drops. When the slope of the agent surface Ts becomes steeper, the agent surface Ts collapses in the direction approaching the opening 222, causing the toner T to move.

[0235] 28(d), as the remaining amount of toner T further decreases, the pressure with which the toner particles press against each other decreases. In this embodiment, an inclined portion 218c of the filter 218 is provided on the bottom surface of the toner storage chamber 216. The inclined portion 218c is inclined so that it becomes lower as it approaches the opening 222, which is the lowest part of the filter 218. In other words, the inclined portion 218c is inclined with respect to the horizontal plane so that it points downward (towards the -Y side) as it approaches the opening 222 in a horizontal plane (X-Z plane) perpendicular to the vertical direction.

[0236] Therefore, even when the remaining amount of toner T is low, the toner T fluidized by the air flowing into the toner storage chamber 216 through the filter 218 moves along the slope of the sloped portion 218c toward the opening 222. Therefore, even when the remaining amount of toner in the toner storage chamber 216 is low, the toner T can be more stably discharged from the toner cartridge C2. Furthermore, when the remaining amount of toner is low, the amount of toner remaining in the toner storage chamber 216 without being discharged from the toner cartridge C2 can be reduced.

[0237] According to the fifth embodiment and its modifications described above, it is possible to provide a new configuration of an image forming apparatus and cartridge that are configured to discharge toner from a cartridge using air.

[0238] The communication portion (pressure relief path) described in the second embodiment may be added to the toner cartridge C2 according to the fifth embodiment or its modified example. For example, a hole or filter portion serving as a pressure relief path may be provided on the top surface of the cartridge frame 32 of the toner cartridge C2 shown in FIGS. 25(a) to 27(b). When providing a pressure relief path, it is sufficient that when air is introduced into the air chamber 217, the amount of air discharged from the outlet 219 is greater than the amount of air discharged from the pressure relief path. By providing a pressure relief path, it is possible to prevent the internal pressure of the toner storage chamber 216 from becoming excessively high, for example, when the toner cartridge C2 is tightly gripped.

[0239] A toner cartridge C2 according to Example 6 will be described. The toner cartridge C2 of this example is detachably mounted in the apparatus main body A of the image forming apparatus IF described in Example 5, similar to the toner cartridge C2 of Example 5. Hereinafter, elements with common reference numerals to Examples 1 and 5 have basically the same configurations and functions as those described in Examples 1 and 5 unless otherwise specified, and differences from Examples 1 and 5 will be mainly described. <Extension Portion>

[0240] In this embodiment, a configuration for maintaining the posture of the toner cartridge C2 will be described. Figure 29 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing the toner cartridge C2 according to this embodiment. The toner cartridge C2 has an extension 236. The extension 236 extends downward (toward the -Y side) beyond the lower end of the cartridge frame 232. The extension 236 protrudes downward (toward the -Y side) beyond the lowermost part of the filter 218 and beyond the lower end (discharge port 219) of the discharge pipe 227.

[0241] The upper end of the extension 236 is joined to the lower end (flange 232a) of the cartridge frame 232. The joining method is not particularly limited, and can be selected from ultrasonic welding, heat welding, adhesion using an adhesive such as a hot melt adhesive, or mechanical joining using screws or the like.

[0242] When viewed in the Y direction, the extension 236 is a hollow (annular, cylindrical) member with a hole in the center. The entire periphery of the upper end of the extension 236 is joined to the entire periphery of the flange 232a. When the toner cartridge C2 before being installed in the apparatus main body A is viewed in the Y direction, most of the filter 218 is exposed inside the extension 236.

[0243] A second contact portion 236e is provided at the lower end of the extension portion 236. When the toner cartridge C2 is mounted in the mounting portion 231, the second contact portion 236e comes into contact with the second contacted portion 231e (FIGS. 31A and 31B) of the mounting portion 231. The second contact portion 236e is the end face of the extension portion 236 in the mounting direction of the toner cartridge C2 (arrow D in FIG. 31A). The contact between the second contact portion 236e and the second contacted portion 231e will be described later. In this embodiment, the height of the second contact portion 236e in the Y direction is uniform around the entire circumference of the extension portion 236.

[0244] The toner cartridge C2 also has a first contact portion 132e for contacting the first contact portion 131e of the mounting portion 231. The configurations of the first contact portion 132e and the first contact portion 131e may be the same as those described with reference to Figures 25(a) and 25(b), for example.

[0245] 30 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a modified toner cartridge C2. The modified toner cartridge C2 has an extension 236 as part of the cartridge frame 232. The extension 236 extends downward (toward the -Y side) from the flange 232a of the cartridge frame 232. The extension 236 protrudes downward (toward the -Y side) below the lowermost part of the filter 218 and below the lower end (discharge port 219) of the discharge pipe 227.

[0246] When viewed in the Y direction, the extension 236 is formed in a hollow (annular, cylindrical) shape with a hole in the center. When the toner cartridge C2 is viewed in the Y direction before being installed in the apparatus main body A, most of the filter 218 (most of the bottom surface of the toner storage chamber 216) is exposed inside the extension 236.

[0247] A second contact portion 236e is provided at the lower end of the extension portion 236. When the toner cartridge C2 is mounted in the mounting portion 231, the second contact portion 236e comes into contact with the second contacted portion 231e (FIGS. 31A and 31B) of the mounting portion 231. The second contact portion 236e is the end face of the extension portion 236 in the mounting direction of the toner cartridge C2 (arrow D in FIG. 31A). The contact between the second contact portion 236e and the second contacted portion 231e will be described later. In this modified example, the height of the second contact portion 236e in the Y direction is uniform around the entire circumference of the extension portion 236.

[0248] Fig. 31(a) is an explanatory diagram showing the state before the toner cartridge C2 according to the modified example is mounted in the mounting portion 231. Fig. 31(b) is an explanatory diagram showing the state after the toner cartridge C2 according to the modified example is mounted in the mounting portion 231.

[0249] When the toner cartridge C2 according to the modified example is mounted in the mounting portion 231, the first contact portion 132e comes into contact with the first contacted portion 131e, and the second contact portion 236e at the lower end of the extension portion 236 comes into contact with the second contacted portion 31e of the mounting portion 231. This forms an air chamber 217, which is a space surrounded by the toner cartridge C2 and the mounting portion 231. Similarly, in the case of the toner cartridge C2 according to the sixth embodiment, the first contact portion 132e comes into contact with the first contacted portion 131e, and the second contact portion 236e comes into contact with the second contacted portion 231e, thereby forming the air chamber 217. A sealing member may be provided on at least one of the second contact portion 236e and the second contacted portion 231e to improve adhesion between the second contact portion 236e and the second contacted portion 231e. <Advantages of the Extension Portion>

[0250] In this embodiment and its modified examples, the extension 236 protrudes downward below the lower end (discharge port 219) of the discharge pipe 227 provided below the filter 218. Therefore, when the toner cartridge C2 is placed on a desk or the like, the filter 218 and the discharge pipe 227 do not come into contact with the desk, reducing the possibility that the toner cartridge C2 will become unstable. This also reduces the possibility that dirt will adhere to the filter 218, reducing breathability, or that dirt adhering to the discharge port 219 will mix with the toner being replenished to the process cartridge B.

[0251] In this embodiment and its modified examples, the second contact portion 236e is provided at the lower end of the extension portion 236 that protrudes downward (toward the -Y side) from the lower end (discharge port 219) of the discharge pipe 227. Therefore, as shown in Figures 31(a) and 31(b), even when a flat mounting portion 231 is used, the air chamber 217 can be appropriately formed, making it easy to mount the toner cartridge C2. In other words, by providing the extension portion 236, the position at which the toner cartridge C2 and the mounting portion 231 come into contact to form the air chamber 217 can be set at a position away from the joint between the cartridge frame 232 and the filter 218.

[0252] According to the sixth embodiment and its modifications described above, it is possible to provide a new form of image forming apparatus and cartridge having a configuration in which toner is discharged from the cartridge using air.

[0253] A toner cartridge C2 according to Example 7 will be described. The toner cartridge C2 of this example is detachably mounted in the apparatus main body A of the image forming apparatus IF described in Example 5, similar to the toner cartridge C2 of Example 5. Hereinafter, elements with common reference numerals to Examples 1 and 5 have basically the same configurations and functions as those described in Examples 1 and 5 unless otherwise specified, and differences from Examples 1 and 5 will be mainly described. <Protective Member>

[0254] Fig. 32(a) is a cross-sectional perspective view of the toner cartridge C2 according to Example 7. Fig. 32(b) is a cross-sectional perspective view showing the toner cartridge C2 with the protection member 237 removed.

[0255] 32A, the toner cartridge C2 of this embodiment includes a protective member 237 (cover member) that protects the filter 218 and the discharge pipe 227. The protective member 237 is attached to the cartridge frame 232 so as to cover at least a portion (preferably the entirety) of the filter 218 when the toner cartridge C2 is viewed in the Y direction. The protective member 237 is also attached to the cartridge frame 232 so as to cover at least a portion (preferably the entirety) of the discharge port 219 when the toner cartridge C2 is viewed in the Y direction.

[0256] The toner cartridge C2 has a first contact portion 132e and a second contact portion 232e. The configurations of the first contact portion 132e and the second contact portion 232e may be the same as those described in the fifth embodiment (FIGS. 25A and 25B).

[0257] The protective member 237 is detachable (separable) from the cartridge frame 232, or movable relative to the cartridge frame 232 to expose the filter 218 and the discharge port 219. When installing the toner cartridge C2 in the mounting portion 231 of the apparatus main body A, the protective member 237 is removed beforehand ( FIG. 32B ). With the protective member 237 removed, the user moves the toner cartridge C2 in the installation direction (arrow D) relative to the mounting portion 231. This causes the first contact portion 132e and the second contact portion 232e to come into contact with the first contacted portion 131e and the second contacted portion 231e of the mounting portion 231, respectively, thereby forming the air chamber 217 ( FIG. 25B ). In other words, removing the protective member 237 allows the toner cartridge C2 to be properly installed in the mounting portion 231. <Advantages of the Protective Member>

[0258] If the filter 218 is made of a low-rigidity material such as nonwoven fabric, it is conceivable that the filter 218 may break and cause toner to leak if it comes into contact with a sharp object or otherwise receives a strong force. In this embodiment, the filter 218 is protected by the protective member 237, thereby reducing the possibility of the filter 218 breaking.

[0259] The material of the filter 218 is not limited to nonwoven fabric, and it is also possible to make it highly rigid by, for example, heat press molding or sintering. Increasing the strength of the filter 218 itself reduces the possibility of the filter 218 breaking. Even in this case, providing the protective member 237 of this embodiment reduces the possibility of dirt adhering to the filter 218 and reducing its breathability, for example, when the toner cartridge C2 is placed on a desk.

[0260] In addition, by covering the discharge pipe 227 (discharge port 219) with the protective member 237, the possibility of damage to the discharge pipe 227 and of dirt adhering to the discharge port 219 being mixed with the toner being replenished to the process cartridge B can be reduced.

[0261] According to the seventh embodiment and its modifications described above, it is possible to provide a new configuration of an image forming apparatus and a cartridge that are configured to discharge toner from a cartridge using air.

[0262] In the above-described embodiment, toner cartridge C for replenishing toner in process cartridge B has been described as an example of a "cartridge" that can be detachably attached to the main body of an image forming apparatus. The "cartridge" is not limited to this; it may be an all-in-one cartridge that integrates a toner storage section corresponding to toner cartridge C with a process unit (corresponding to process cartridge B) that receives toner from the toner storage section. Furthermore, the "cartridge" may also be one that integrates a toner storage section corresponding to toner cartridge C with a developing unit B1 that receives toner from the toner storage section. In these examples, the configuration described in the above-described embodiment can be applied to the toner storage section corresponding to toner cartridge C.

[0263] In the above-described embodiment, the process cartridge B used in a direct transfer electrophotographic process has been described as an example of the "image forming means." However, the "image forming means" is not limited to this, and may be a process cartridge used in an intermediate transfer electrophotographic process in which a toner image formed on a photosensitive drum is primarily transferred to an intermediate transfer body such as an intermediate transfer belt, and then the toner image is transferred from the intermediate transfer body to a recording material. Furthermore, the "image forming means" may be a process unit fixed to the apparatus main body A in a manner that does not anticipate attachment or detachment by the user.

[0264] The configurations described in the above-described embodiments and modifications can be simultaneously applied to one cartridge or one image forming apparatus, unless they contradict each other.

[0265] The present disclosure includes at least the following: (Configuration 1)

[0266] An image forming apparatus comprising: a cartridge including a container that forms a first chamber for storing toner, the container having at least a portion of its bottom formed by a filter that allows air to pass through but prevents toner from passing through; an apparatus body having a mounting portion into which the cartridge can be mounted and a toner storage portion that stores toner supplied from the cartridge mounted in the mounting portion; and an air supply portion that supplies air, wherein the mounting portion has a wall portion configured to form a second chamber with the filter as an upper surface when the cartridge is mounted, the wall portion having an intake port for taking air from the air supply portion into the second chamber. (Configuration 2)

[0267] The image forming apparatus according to Structure 1, wherein the wall portion includes a bottom wall including a surface facing the filter with a gap therebetween, and a side wall extending upward from the bottom wall and surrounding the filter when viewed in the direction of gravity, and the second chamber is surrounded by the filter, the bottom wall, and the side wall. (Structure 3)

[0268] The image forming apparatus according to the second aspect, wherein the intake port is provided in the bottom wall. (Configuration 4)

[0269] The image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the container includes a container frame having an opening on the bottom surface, and the filter is provided to cover the opening. (Configuration 5)

[0270] The image forming apparatus according to Structure 4, wherein the wall portion has a bottom wall below the cartridge and includes a surface facing the filter with a gap therebetween, the container frame includes a container side wall that is provided around the filter when viewed in the direction of gravity and extends toward the bottom wall, and the second chamber is surrounded by the filter, the bottom wall, and the container side wall. (Structure 6)

[0271] The image forming apparatus according to Structure 4 or 5, wherein the container frame has a flange portion provided on the edge of the opening, and an outer edge portion of the filter is joined to the flange portion. (Structure 7)

[0272] The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, wherein the cartridge has an outlet for discharging toner to the outside of the container and a contact portion that contacts a contact portion of the mounting portion when the cartridge is mounted to the mounting portion, a contact area between the contact portion and the contact portion is annular, the filter is located in an area on one side of the annular contact area on the surface of the cartridge, and the outlet is located in an area on the other side of the annular contact area. (Configuration 8)

[0273] The image forming apparatus according to Configuration 7, wherein at least one of the contact portion and the contacted portion is provided with a sealing member that seals a gap between the contact portion and the contacted portion when the cartridge is mounted in the mounting portion. (Configuration 9)

[0274] The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 8, wherein the cartridge has a discharge pipe having an inlet at one end communicating with the first chamber and an outlet at the other end communicating with the outside of the container, and the mounting portion has a hole through which the discharge pipe is inserted when the cartridge is mounted in the mounting portion. (Configuration 10)

[0275] The image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, wherein the cartridge has a cover member that covers at least a portion of the filter, the cover member being removable or movable so as to expose the filter. (Configuration 11)

[0276] The image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to tenth embodiments, wherein the air supply unit is an air pump. (Configuration 12)

[0277] A toner container detachable from an image forming apparatus, comprising: a container frame provided with a first opening communicating with the outside of the toner container and a second opening having an area larger than the first opening; and a filter covering the second opening, which allows air to pass through but prevents toner from passing through, wherein a toner storage chamber for storing toner is formed by the container frame and the filter, and when the toner container is in the attached position, the second opening is located on the bottom surface of the container frame, and the filter forms a part of the outer surface of the toner container. (Configuration 13)

[0278] The toner container according to Configuration 12, wherein the toner-accommodating chamber is not provided with a stirring member for stirring the toner. (Configuration 14)

[0279] The toner container according to Structure 12 or 13, wherein the second opening occupies more than half of the area corresponding to the toner storage chamber when viewed in the direction of gravity. (Structure 15)

[0280] The toner container according to Structure 12 or 13, wherein the second opening occupies the entire portion corresponding to the toner storage chamber when viewed in the direction of gravity. (Structure 16)

[0281] The toner container according to any one of Configurations 12 to 15, wherein when air flows into the toner storage chamber through the filter, the only path for the air to be discharged from the toner storage chamber to the outside of the toner container is the first opening. (Configuration 17)

[0282] The toner container according to any one of Structures 12 to 15, wherein the container frame further has a third opening communicating with the outside of the toner container, and when air flows into the toner storage chamber through the filter, the amount of air discharged from the first opening is greater than the amount of air discharged from the third opening. (Structure 18)

[0283] 18. A toner container according to any one of configurations 12 to 17, comprising a discharge pipe having an inlet at one end through which toner from the toner storage chamber flows in and the first opening at the other end, the inlet facing the filter in the direction of gravity, and the filter configured with an inclined surface that is inclined so that the part of the filter facing the inlet is the lowest part of the filter when the toner container is in an attached position.

[0284] According to the present invention, a new configuration of an image forming apparatus and a toner container can be provided.

[0285] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the following claims are appended to apprise the public of the scope of the present invention.

[0286] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-200228, filed November 27, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. An image forming device comprising: a cartridge including a container which forms a first chamber for storing toner, the container having at least a portion of its bottom surface formed by a filter which allows air to pass through and prevents toner from passing through; a device body having a mounting section into which the cartridge can be mounted and a toner storage section which stores toner supplied from the cartridge mounted in the mounting section; and an air supply section which supplies air, wherein the mounting section has a wall section which is configured to form a second chamber with the filter as its upper surface when the cartridge is mounted, the wall section having an intake port for taking air from the air supply section into the second chamber.

2. An image forming apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein the wall portion includes a bottom wall including an opposing surface that faces the filter with a gap therebetween, and a side wall that is provided around the filter when viewed in the direction of gravity and extends upward from the bottom wall, and the second chamber is surrounded by the filter, the bottom wall, and the side wall.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the intake is provided in the bottom wall.

4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the container includes a container frame having an opening on the bottom surface, and the filter is provided so as to cover the opening.

5. An image forming apparatus as described in claim 4, wherein the wall portion has a bottom wall below the cartridge and includes an opposing surface that faces the filter with a gap therebetween, the container frame includes a container side wall that is provided around the filter when viewed in the direction of gravity and extends toward the bottom wall, and the second chamber is surrounded by the filter, the bottom wall, and the container side wall.

6. An image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the container frame has a flange portion provided on the edge of the opening, and an outer edge portion of the filter is joined to the flange portion.

7. The image forming apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cartridge has an outlet for discharging toner outside the container, and an abutment portion that abuts against the abutted portion of the mounting portion when the cartridge is mounted on the mounting portion, the abutment area between the abutment portion and the abutted portion is annular, the filter is present in an area on one side of the annular abutment area on the surface of the cartridge, and the outlet is present in an area on the other side of the annular abutment area.

8. An image forming apparatus as described in claim 7, wherein at least one of the contact portion and the contacted portion is provided with a sealing member that seals a gap between the contact portion and the contacted portion when the cartridge is mounted in the mounting portion.

9. An image forming apparatus as described in claim 1, wherein the cartridge has a discharge pipe having an inlet at one end that leads to the first chamber and an outlet at the other end that leads to the outside of the container, and the mounting portion has a hole through which the discharge pipe is inserted when the cartridge is mounted in the mounting portion.

10. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said cartridge has a cover member which covers at least a part of said filter, said cover member being provided detachably or movably so as to expose said filter.

11. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the air supply unit is an air pump.

12. A toner container that is detachable from an image forming device, comprising: a container frame having a first opening that leads to the outside of the toner container and a second opening having an area larger than the first opening; and a filter that covers the second opening and allows air to pass through but prevents toner from passing through, wherein a toner storage chamber for storing toner is composed of the container frame and the filter, and when the toner container is in an attached position, the second opening is located on the bottom surface of the container frame, and the filter forms part of the outer surface of the toner container.

13. The toner container according to claim 12, wherein the toner storage chamber is not provided with an agitating member for agitating the toner.

14. The toner container according to claim 12, wherein said second opening occupies more than half of the portion corresponding to said toner storage chamber when viewed in the direction of gravity.

15. A toner container according to claim 12, wherein said second opening occupies the entire portion corresponding to said toner storage chamber when viewed in the direction of gravity.

16. A toner container according to claim 12, wherein when air flows into the toner storage chamber through the filter, the first opening is the only path through which air is exhausted from the toner storage chamber to the outside of the toner container.

17. A toner container as described in claim 12, wherein the container frame further has a third opening leading to the outside of the toner container, and when air flows into the toner storage chamber through the filter, the amount of air discharged from the first opening is greater than the amount of air discharged from the third opening.

18. A toner container as described in any one of claims 12 to 17, comprising an exhaust pipe having an inlet at one end through which toner from the toner storage chamber flows in and the first opening at the other end, the inlet facing the filter in the direction of gravity, and the filter configured with an inclined surface that is inclined so that the part of the filter facing the inlet is the lowest part of the filter when the toner container is in an attached position.

Images