Developing Device Vertical Transport Path Arrangement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing developing devices have a complex structure that makes them larger in the vertical direction due to the placement of transport paths, which can hinder efficient developer circulation and usage.
Innovation Solution
A developing device with a first, second, and third transport path arranged vertically, where the first and second paths are adjacent, and the third path collects unused developer from the developing roller and transports it back to the second path, allowing for a more compact design and efficient developer circulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the third transport path is disposed farther in a vertically upward direction than the second transport path, then the developer circulation is simplified, but the vertical dimension of the developing device becomes larger
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensional rearrangement by changing the vertical positioning relationship between transport paths. Instead of placing the third transport path above the second transport path, the invention repositions it below, utilizing the vertical space more efficiently and reducing the overall vertical dimension while maintaining the developer circulation function.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention inverts the conventional arrangement by placing the third transport path below the second transport path rather than above it. This inverted configuration allows the unused developer to be collected and transported back to the second transport path through a downward-oriented structure, achieving compact vertical dimensions while preserving the circulation functionality.
2Productivity
If multiple transport paths are arranged vertically, then the developer circulation efficiency is improved, but the vertical dimension increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the vertical arrangement of multiple transport paths by repositioning the third transport path below the second transport path. This dimensional reconfiguration allows efficient developer circulation through multiple paths while minimizing the vertical space occupied, achieving high productivity within a compact form factor.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a nested-like configuration where the third transport path is positioned within the vertical space below the second transport path. This nesting approach allows multiple transport functions to coexist in a compact vertical arrangement, improving circulation efficiency without proportionally increasing the vertical dimension.
Data Source
AI summary
A developing device includes a first transport member and a second transport member that are respectively disposed in a first transport path and a second transport path arranged in a vertical direction and that transport developer so as to circulate the developer between the first transport path and the second transport path; a developing member that is disposed to face the first transport path and that receives the developer from the first transport path; and a third transport member that is disposed in a third transport path through which the developer that has not been used by the developing member is collected and transported to the second transport path. A central shaft of the second transport member is disposed farther in a vertically upward direction than is a central shaft of the third transport member.