Developing Device Blocking Member Prevents Developer Leakage
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Solution Overview
Problem
In developing devices, developer particles tend to enter the gap between a tubular member and its support, leading to inefficiencies and potential issues with image formation in image forming apparatuses.
Innovation Solution
A developing device is designed with a tubular member, an end support, and a blocking member that extends over the end face of the tubular member and the end support, preventing developer particles from entering the gap between the tubular member and the support. Additionally, a pressing member with a developer passageway and an elastic member between the end support and the pressing member are included, with the blocking member supporting the elastic member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a tubular member is provided separately from the housing to form a developer transport path, then the developer transport function is improved, but developer particles enter the gap between the tubular member and support
Solution Approach 1:
A blocking member is introduced as an intermediary element between the tubular member and the support structure. This blocking member extends over the end face of the tubular member and the support, physically preventing developer particles from entering the gap while maintaining the separate provision of the tubular member for efficient developer transport
Solution Approach 2:
The end support is divided into a support body and a blocking member that are positioned at different locations. The support body provides structural support for the tubular member, while the blocking member specifically addresses the developer leakage issue by extending over the gap area, allowing each segment to fulfill its specific function
2Ease of operation
If an elastic member is provided between the end support and pressing member, then the developer passageway function is improved, but the elastic member loses its shape due to deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking member is positioned in advance to support the elastic member before the pressing member applies pressure. This preliminary support action prevents excessive deformation of the elastic member while still allowing it to function properly in maintaining the developer passageway between the end support and pressing member
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration effectively prevents developer particles from entering the gap between the tubular member and the support, maintaining the shape of the elastic member and simplifying the fixing process, thereby enhancing the reliability and efficiency of the developing device and image forming apparatus.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member that is provided between the end support and the pressing member
Data Source
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AI summary
A developing device includes a tubular member through which developer is to be transported, an end support that supports an end of the tubular member, and a blocking member that extends over an end face of the tubular member and the end support and that blocks the developer from entering a gap between an outer peripheral surface of the tubular member and the end support.