Developing Unit Partition Wall for Toner Leakage Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Developer leakage occurs around the developing roller in existing developing units due to the pressure of developer conveyed by the auger, which is not effectively managed.
Innovation Solution
A developing unit design featuring a partition wall with a supply port and a return port to separate the developer container from the developing section, reducing pressure on the developing roller by redirecting the developer flow and using a semicylindrical partition wall to enhance conveyance efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the length of the supplying roller is the same as the length of the auger, then the developer can be supplied to the whole axial direction of the supplying roller, but the pressure of the developer conveyed to the downstream side is added to the developing roller causing developer leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the supplying roller into two distinct sections: a developer supply section and a developer return section. This segmentation allows the auger to convey developer through separate paths, preventing pressure accumulation around the developing roller while ensuring complete axial coverage for developer supply.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a partition wall with a through-hole as an intermediary structure between the supply and return sections. This partition wall with its controlled opening allows developer flow management and pressure equalization, preventing harmful pressure buildup that causes leakage while maintaining efficient developer distribution.
2Productivity
If the auger conveys developer in the axial direction of the supplying roller, then the developer supply efficiency is improved, but the pressure buildup causes harmful effects on the developing roller
Solution Approach 1:
The supplying roller is segmented into supply and return sections, allowing the auger to convey developer efficiently in the axial direction through separated paths. This prevents pressure buildup on the developing roller while maintaining high conveyance efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The partition wall with a through-hole acts as an intermediary that manages developer flow and pressure distribution. It allows controlled developer passage while preventing excessive pressure accumulation that would harm the developing roller.
Data Source
AI summary
The developing unit includes a developing section, a developer container, and a partition wall. The developing section includes a developer-bearing member, a supplying member, and a conveying member. The developer container is positioned adjacent to the developing section and configured to contain the developer. The partition wall is positioned adjacent to the conveying member and configured to separate the developing section and the developer container. The partition wall has a supply port, and a return port. A downstream end of the conveying member in a developer conveying direction is extended axially outward with respect to the supplying member. The return port faces the downstream end of the conveying member.