JP2002357946A - Toner replenishing container, toner replenishing device and sealing member - Google Patents
Toner replenishing container, toner replenishing device and sealing memberInfo
- Publication number
- JP2002357946A JP2002357946A JP2001164744A JP2001164744A JP2002357946A JP 2002357946 A JP2002357946 A JP 2002357946A JP 2001164744 A JP2001164744 A JP 2001164744A JP 2001164744 A JP2001164744 A JP 2001164744A JP 2002357946 A JP2002357946 A JP 2002357946A
- Authority
- JP
- Japan
- Prior art keywords
- toner
- supply container
- toner supply
- main body
- sealing member
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Pending
Links
Abstract
Description
【0001】[0001]
【発明の属する技術分野】本発明は、複写機、ファクシ
ミリ、プリンター等の電子写真画像形成装置の現像装置
に、トナーを補給するためのトナー補給容器、トナー補
給装置及び封止部材に関する。BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a toner supply container, a toner supply device, and a sealing member for supplying toner to a developing device of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus such as a copying machine, a facsimile, and a printer.
【0002】[0002]
【従来の技術】従来より、トナー収容容器から電子写真
画像形成装置の画像形成装置本体に備える現像装置へト
ナーを補給する手段として、いくつかの提案がなされて
いる。例えば、画像形成装置本体内にボトル形状のトナ
ー補給容器を据置いて、前記トナー補給容器を回転駆動
させることにより、トナー補給容器のトナー排出口から
適宜トナー補給を行う方法などが提案されている。2. Description of the Related Art Some proposals have conventionally been made as means for replenishing toner from a toner container to a developing device provided in an image forming apparatus main body of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus. For example, a method has been proposed in which a bottle-shaped toner supply container is placed in the main body of an image forming apparatus, and the toner supply container is rotated to thereby appropriately supply toner from a toner outlet of the toner supply container.
【0003】なお、上記トナー排出口には、トナー補給
時以外のときにトナー漏れを防止するための封止部材が
設けられている。例えば、図14に示すように、トナー
補給容器60のトナー排出口60aの外周面に形成した
ねじ部60bにキャップ61を螺合するとともに、トナ
ー排出口60aを封止部材62で開閉自在に封止するよ
うにしていた。[0003] The toner outlet is provided with a sealing member for preventing toner leakage at times other than toner replenishment. For example, as shown in FIG. 14, a cap 61 is screwed into a screw portion 60b formed on the outer peripheral surface of the toner discharge port 60a of the toner supply container 60, and the toner discharge port 60a is opened and closed by a sealing member 62. I was trying to stop.
【0004】また、上記トナーの補給方法において、ト
ナー補給容器を回転駆動させるための駆動伝達方式とし
ては、トナー補給容器にギア等を設けてそのギアを介し
て装置本体側からの駆動力をトナー補給容器に伝達させ
る方式や、トナー補給容器に装置本体の駆動側と係合す
るための突起を設ける方式などがあった。In the above-described toner replenishing method, a drive transmission system for rotating the toner replenishing container is such that a gear or the like is provided in the toner replenishing container and the driving force from the apparatus main body side is transmitted through the gear. There are a method of transmitting the toner to the supply container and a method of providing the toner supply container with a projection for engaging with the drive side of the apparatus main body.
【0005】[0005]
【発明が解決しようとする課題】ところで、上記した従
来のトナー補給容器では、トナー排出口にはトナー漏れ
を防止するための封止部材が嵌入もしくは被せてあり、
この封止部材を取り外すための動作を、トナー補給容器
の回転駆動とは別系統の装置によって行っていた。この
ため、封止部材を取り外すための動作を行う装置と、ト
ナー補給容器を回転駆動させる装置が必要となるので、
構成が複雑となり、かつコストアップの要因ともなって
いた。In the above-described conventional toner supply container, a sealing member for preventing toner leakage is fitted or covered in the toner discharge port.
The operation for removing the sealing member has been performed by an apparatus of a different system from the rotation driving of the toner supply container. Therefore, a device for performing an operation for removing the sealing member and a device for rotating and driving the toner supply container are required.
The configuration was complicated and increased the cost.
【0006】また、上記した従来のトナー補給容器で
は、封止部材を取り外す動作とトナー補給動作とが連動
していないために、封止部材を取り外すと同時にトナー
が勝手に排出されるなどの現象が頻発し、必ずしもトナ
ー排出口の開閉動作及びトナー補給と、トナー補給容器
の回転駆動伝達のタイミングがマッチングできていない
状態であった。Further, in the above-mentioned conventional toner supply container, since the operation of removing the sealing member and the operation of supplying the toner are not linked, the phenomenon that the toner is discharged at the same time as the removal of the sealing member. Has frequently occurred, and the timing of the opening / closing operation of the toner discharge port and the toner supply has not always been matched with the timing of the rotation drive transmission of the toner supply container.
【0007】そこで本発明は、上記した従来の不具合を
解消し、画像形成装置本体への装着を容易にできるよう
にし、かつ安価な構成で容易にトナー排出口の開閉動作
及びトナー補給動作と、駆動伝達のタイミングをマッチ
ングさせることができるトナー補給容器及びトナー補給
装置を提供することを目的とする。Therefore, the present invention solves the above-mentioned conventional problems, makes it easy to mount the apparatus on the image forming apparatus main body, and easily opens and closes the toner discharge port and supplies toner with an inexpensive structure. An object of the present invention is to provide a toner replenishing container and a toner replenishing device capable of matching drive transmission timing.
【0008】[0008]
【課題を解決するための手段】上記目的を達成するため
に請求項1記載の発明は、画像形成装置本体に着脱自在
に装着されるトナー補給容器において、内部にトナーを
収納したトナー補給容器本体と、前記トナー補給容器本
体の一端側に突出して形成され、封止部材により開閉自
在に封止されるトナー排出のための開口突出部とを有
し、前記封止部材は、その軸線方向の前記トナー補給容
器本体側の端面をふさいだ管状に形成され、前記封止部
材が、前記トナー補給容器本体の前記開口突出部の内周
面に摺動可能に嵌入されるトナー補給容器であって、前
記封止部材の嵌入で前記開口突出部を封止した状態か
ら、前記トナー補給容器本体を前記画像形成装置本体に
回転自在に保持して装着することにより、前記画像形成
装置本体に移動自在に設けた駆動伝達手段を少なくとも
前記トナー補給容器本体の前記開口突出部周辺の面に圧
接させて、前記駆動伝達手段から前記トナー補給容器本
体にトナー排出のための駆動伝達を行うことを特徴とし
ている。According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a toner supply container detachably mounted to an image forming apparatus main body, wherein the toner supply container main body contains toner therein. And an opening protruding portion formed on the one end side of the toner supply container main body for discharging toner, which is openably and closably sealed by a sealing member, wherein the sealing member has an axial direction. A toner supply container which is formed in a tubular shape and covers an end surface of the toner supply container main body side, and wherein the sealing member is slidably fitted into an inner peripheral surface of the opening projecting portion of the toner supply container main body. The toner supply container main body is rotatably held and mounted on the image forming apparatus main body from a state in which the opening protrusion is sealed by fitting of the sealing member, so that the toner supply container main body is movable on the image forming apparatus main body. To The digit drive transmission means at least said is pressed against the surface surrounding the opening projection of the toner supply container main body, it is characterized by performing the drive transmission for the toner discharged from said drive transmitting means to said toner supply container main body.
【0009】また、請求項17記載の発明は、画像形成
装置本体に着脱自在に装着されるトナー補給容器を備え
たトナー補給装置において、前記トナー補給容器を構成
する内部にトナーを収納したトナー補給容器本体と、前
記トナー補給容器本体の一端側に突出して形成され、封
止部材により開閉自在に封止されるトナー排出のための
開口突出部とを有し、前記封止部材は、その軸線方向の
前記トナー補給容器本体側の端面をふさいだ管状に形成
され、前記封止部材が、前記トナー補給容器本体の前記
開口突出部の内周面に摺動可能に嵌入されるトナー補給
装置であって、前記封止部材の嵌入で前記開口突出部を
封止した状態から、前記トナー補給容器本体を前記画像
形成装置本体に回転自在に保持して装着することによ
り、前記画像形成装置本体に移動自在に設けた駆動伝達
手段を少なくとも前記トナー補給容器本体の前記開口突
出部周面の面に圧接させて、前記駆動伝達手段から前記
トナー補給容器本体にトナー排出のための駆動伝達を行
うことを特徴としている。According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a toner replenishing apparatus having a toner replenishing container detachably mounted on an image forming apparatus main body, wherein the toner replenishing container contains toner therein. A container main body, and an opening protruding portion formed at one end side of the toner replenishing container main body for discharging toner which is openably and closably sealed by a sealing member. A toner replenishing device formed in a tubular shape so as to cover an end surface of the toner replenishing container main body in the direction, and wherein the sealing member is slidably fitted into an inner peripheral surface of the opening projecting portion of the toner replenishing container main body. Then, the toner supply container main body is rotatably held and mounted on the image forming apparatus main body from a state where the opening projecting portion is sealed by fitting of the sealing member, whereby the image forming apparatus is provided. A drive transmission means movably provided on the main body is pressed against at least a surface of the peripheral surface of the opening projecting portion of the toner supply container main body, and a drive transmission for discharging toner from the drive transmission means to the toner supply container main body is performed. It is characterized by performing.
【0010】また、請求項33記載の発明は、内部にト
ナーを収納したトナー補給容器本体の一端側に突出して
形成して形成されたトナー排出のための開口突出部を開
閉自在に封止する封止部材において、前記封止部材を、
前記トナー補給容器本体の前記開口突出部の内周面に摺
動可能に嵌入して記開口突出部を封止した状態から、前
記トナー補給容器本体を前記画像形成装置本体に回転自
在に保持して装着することにより、前記画像形成装置本
体に移動自在に設けた駆動伝達手段を、前記封止部材と
前記トナー補給容器本体との間に挟みこんで、前記駆動
伝達手段から前記トナー補給容器本体にトナー排出のた
めの駆動伝達を行うことを特徴としている。According to a thirty-third aspect of the present invention, an opening projection for discharging toner formed by projecting from one end side of a toner supply container main body containing toner therein is openably and closably sealed. In the sealing member, the sealing member,
The toner supply container main body is rotatably held by the image forming apparatus main body from a state in which the toner supply container main body is slidably fitted to the inner peripheral surface of the opening protruding portion of the toner supply container main body and the opening protruding portion is sealed. The drive transmission means movably provided in the image forming apparatus main body by being mounted between the sealing member and the toner supply container main body. In this case, a drive transmission for discharging the toner is performed.
【0011】[0011]
【発明の実施の形態】以下、本発明を図示の実施の形態
に基づいて説明する。DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention will be described below based on the illustrated embodiment.
【0012】〈実施の形態1〉図1は、本発明の実施の
形態に係るトナー補給装置Aを備えた画像形成装置(本
実施の形態では、電子写真方式の複写機)Bを示す概略
構成図ある。First Embodiment FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an image forming apparatus (in the present embodiment, an electrophotographic copying machine) B provided with a toner supply device A according to an embodiment of the present invention. There is a figure.
【0013】この画像形成装置(複写機)Bは、電子写
真画像形成プロセスによって電子写真感光体としての感
光ドラム10上に形成されたトナー像を記録媒体(用紙
やOHPシートなど)Pに転写して画像形成を行う。The image forming apparatus (copier) B transfers a toner image formed on a photosensitive drum 10 as an electrophotographic photosensitive member by an electrophotographic image forming process to a recording medium (paper, OHP sheet, etc.) P. To form an image.
【0014】詳しくは、帯電手段としての1次帯電器1
1によって回転している感光ドラム10に帯電を行い、
次いでこの感光ドラム10上に、読み取り部(露光装
置)16から入力される原稿台ガラス20上に置かれた
原稿19の画像情報に応じた露光が与えられて、原稿1
9の画像情報に応じた静電潜像が形成される。そして、
この静電潜像を現像装置12のトナー(現像剤)によっ
て現像してトナー像を形成する。More specifically, a primary charger 1 as a charging means
1 to charge the rotating photosensitive drum 10,
Next, the photosensitive drum 10 is exposed to light corresponding to the image information of the original 19 placed on the original platen glass 20 input from the reading unit (exposure device) 16, and the original 1
An electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image information of No. 9 is formed. And
The electrostatic latent image is developed with the toner (developer) of the developing device 12 to form a toner image.
【0015】現像装置12は、現像バイアスが印加され
た現像ローラ12aを回転させるとともに、規制ブレー
ド(不図示)によって摩擦帯電電荷を付与したトナー層
を現像ローラ12aの表面に形成し、そのトナーを感光
ドラム10の現像領域へ供給する。そして、そのトナー
を感光ドラム10上の静電潜像へ転移させることによっ
てトナー像を形成して可視像化する。The developing device 12 rotates the developing roller 12a to which the developing bias has been applied, and forms a toner layer on the surface of the developing roller 12a to which a triboelectric charge has been applied by a regulating blade (not shown). It is supplied to the developing area of the photosensitive drum 10. Then, the toner image is transferred to the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 10 to form a toner image to be visualized.
【0016】現像装置12による現像で減少するトナー
は、トナー補給装置Aのトナー補給容器1から順次補給
される(トナー補給容器1の詳細については後述す
る)。トナー補給容器1は、画像形成装置本体33に取
り外し可能に装着されている。なお、本実施の形態で使
用されるトナーとしては、例えば磁性粒子を樹脂中に分
散した1成分磁性トナーを用いることができる。The toner reduced by the development by the developing device 12 is sequentially supplied from the toner supply container 1 of the toner supply device A (the details of the toner supply container 1 will be described later). The toner supply container 1 is detachably mounted on the image forming apparatus main body 33. As the toner used in the present embodiment, for example, a one-component magnetic toner in which magnetic particles are dispersed in a resin can be used.
【0017】一方、給紙カセット21、22、23、2
4にそれぞれ収納されている所定サイズの用紙などの記
録媒体Pのうちから所望サイズの記録媒体Pを選択し
て、各給紙カセット21〜24のピックアップローラ3
0a、30b、30c、30dのうちの選択された給紙
カセットに応じたピックアップローラによって選択した
記録媒体Pが給紙される。On the other hand, paper feed cassettes 21, 22, 23, 2
4, a recording medium P of a desired size is selected from recording media P such as paper of a predetermined size stored in the pickup rollers 3 of the paper feed cassettes 21 to 24.
The recording medium P selected is fed by a pickup roller corresponding to the selected sheet feeding cassette among 0a, 30b, 30c, and 30d.
【0018】給紙された記録媒体Pは、搬送部25を通
してレジストローラ対26まで搬送される。そして、レ
ジストローラ対26は、上記のトナー像の形成と同期し
て記録媒体Pを感光ドラム10と転写手段としての転写
帯電器13間の転写ニップ部に搬送する。The fed recording medium P is transported to a pair of registration rollers 26 through a transport section 25. The registration roller pair 26 conveys the recording medium P to a transfer nip between the photosensitive drum 10 and a transfer charger 13 as a transfer unit in synchronization with the formation of the toner image.
【0019】そして、感光ドラム10に形成されたトナ
ー像を、転写バイアスが印加された転写帯電器13によ
って記録媒体Pに転写する。その後、トナー像の転写を
受けた記録媒体Pは、分離帯電器14によって感光ドラ
ム10から分離され、搬送ガイド17でガイドされて定
着装置18へと搬送される。定着装置18は、定着ロー
ラ18aと加圧ローラ18bを有しており、トナー像が
転写された記録媒体Pを定着ローラ18aと加圧ローラ
18b間の定着ニップ部で挟持搬送して、通過する記録
媒体Pに熱及び圧力を印加して転写されたトナー像を定
着する。Then, the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 10 is transferred to the recording medium P by the transfer charger 13 to which a transfer bias is applied. Thereafter, the recording medium P to which the toner image has been transferred is separated from the photosensitive drum 10 by the separation charger 14, guided by the transport guide 17, and transported to the fixing device 18. The fixing device 18 has a fixing roller 18a and a pressure roller 18b, and nips and conveys the recording medium P on which the toner image has been transferred at a fixing nip portion between the fixing roller 18a and the pressure roller 18b. The transferred toner image is fixed by applying heat and pressure to the recording medium P.
【0020】そして、片面コピーの場合は、片面にトナ
ー像が定着された記録媒体Pを、反転部27を通して排
出ローラ対28で搬送して排出トレイ29へと排出す
る。また、多重コピーの場合、片面にトナー像が定着さ
れた記録媒体Pは、反転部27のフラッパー27aによ
り搬送部31、32へ搬送され、レジストローラ対26
まで達する。その後、前記と同様にトナー像が定着され
た記録媒体P上に画像形成を行い、排出トレイ29へ排
出される。In the case of one-sided copying, the recording medium P having the toner image fixed on one side is conveyed by a pair of discharge rollers 28 through a reversing unit 27 and discharged to a discharge tray 29. In the case of multiplex copying, the recording medium P having the toner image fixed on one side is transported to the transport units 31 and 32 by the flapper 27 a of the reversing unit 27, and the registration roller pair 26 is provided.
Reach up to. Thereafter, an image is formed on the recording medium P on which the toner image has been fixed in the same manner as described above, and is discharged to the discharge tray 29.
【0021】また、両面コピーの場合、片面にトナー像
が定着された記録媒体Pは、反転部27を通って排出ロ
ーラ対28により、その一部をいったん画像形成装置本
体33の外へ排出する。その後、記録媒体Pの終端がフ
ラッパー27aを通過した後、排出ローラ対28を逆回
転させることにより、この記録媒体Pは搬送部31、3
2へ搬送されてレジストローラ対26まで達する。その
後、前記と同様に記録媒体Pの他面(背面)上に画像形
成を行い、排出トレイ29へ排出される。In the case of double-sided copying, a part of the recording medium P having the toner image fixed on one side thereof is once discharged outside the image forming apparatus main body 33 by the discharge roller pair 28 through the reversing section 27. . Then, after the end of the recording medium P has passed through the flapper 27a, the recording medium P is conveyed by rotating the discharge roller pair 28 in the reverse direction.
2 to reach the registration roller pair 26. Thereafter, an image is formed on the other surface (back surface) of the recording medium P in the same manner as described above, and the recording medium P is discharged to the discharge tray 29.
【0022】また、前記転写後に感光ドラム10上に残
留している転写残トナーは、クリーニング器(クリーニ
ングブレード)15によって掻きとられて除去され、次
の画像形成動作に備える。Further, the transfer residual toner remaining on the photosensitive drum 10 after the transfer is scraped off by a cleaning device (cleaning blade) 15 and is prepared for the next image forming operation.
【0023】次に、本発明の実施の形態1に係るトナー
補給容器1について説明する。図2は、トナー補給装置
Aを構成するトナー補給容器1の一部破断した斜視図で
ある。Next, the toner supply container 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 2 is a partially broken perspective view of the toner supply container 1 constituting the toner supply device A.
【0024】図2に示すように、トナー(不図示)が収
納されているトナー補給容器1を構成するトナー補給容
器本体1aは略円筒形状に形成され、その一端のほぼ中
央に円筒部より小径の円筒形状のトナー排出口としての
開口突出部1aが突設されている。この開口突出部1a
の内周面には摺動可能に嵌入された封止部材2が設けて
あり、この封止部材2がトナー補給容器1の軸線方向に
移動することにより、開口突出部1aの開閉動作を行う
構成になっている。本発明の実施の形態1に係る封止部
材2の詳細については後述する。なお、以下の説明で
は、トナー補給容器本体1aをトナー補給容器1として
説明する。As shown in FIG. 2, the toner supply container main body 1a constituting the toner supply container 1 containing the toner (not shown) is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape. An opening projecting portion 1a as a cylindrical toner outlet is protruded. This opening protrusion 1a
A sealing member 2 slidably fitted on the inner peripheral surface of the toner supply container 1 is provided. The sealing member 2 moves in the axial direction of the toner supply container 1 to open and close the opening projection 1a. It has a configuration. Details of the sealing member 2 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described later. In the following description, the toner supply container main body 1a will be described as the toner supply container 1.
【0025】略円筒形状のトナー補給容器1(トナー補
給容器本体1a)は、図6に示すように、画像形成装置
本体33内に略水平方向に配置され、後述するように画
像形成装置本体33側に設けた回転駆動伝達部材44の
駆動部(不図示)から回転駆動力を受けてトナー補給容
器1が回転する構成になっている。トナー補給容器1の
内周面には螺旋突起部1bが設けており、トナー補給容
器1が回転することによってこの螺旋突起部1bに沿っ
てトナーが開口突出部1a側の軸線方向に搬送される。
開口突出部1a側に搬送されたトナーは、後述するよう
に封止部材2の周面に形成された排出開口部2aを通っ
て、封止部材2の開口した他端側から外部に排出される
構成になっている。The substantially cylindrical toner supply container 1 (toner supply container main body 1a) is disposed in a substantially horizontal direction in the image forming apparatus main body 33 as shown in FIG. The toner supply container 1 is configured to receive a rotational driving force from a drive unit (not shown) of the rotational drive transmitting member 44 provided on the side thereof and rotate. A spiral projection 1b is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the toner supply container 1. When the toner supply container 1 rotates, toner is conveyed along the spiral projection 1b in the axial direction on the side of the opening projection 1a. .
The toner conveyed to the opening protruding portion 1a is discharged to the outside from the other open end of the sealing member 2 through a discharge opening 2a formed on the peripheral surface of the sealing member 2 as described later. Configuration.
【0026】なお、本発明の実施の形態1におけるトナ
ー補給容器1の構成については、トナー補給容器1が回
転することによりトナーを排出する形状であれば、特に
その形状や構成について限定するものではない。また、
本発明の実施の形態1の趣旨は、トナー補給容器1を回
転させることにより排出されるトナーの開口突出部1a
を開閉自在に封止する封止部材2において、トナー補給
容器1と嵌合する周面にトナーを排出するための排出開
口部2aを設けたことであるため、トナー補給容器1の
構成については、一般的によく知られているトナー補給
容器1内部に、螺旋突起1bを形成したものやその他の
構成のものであってもかまわない。The configuration of the toner supply container 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention is not particularly limited as long as the toner supply container 1 rotates to discharge toner. Absent. Also,
The gist of the first embodiment of the present invention is that the opening protrusion 1 a of the toner discharged by rotating the toner supply container 1 is provided.
The opening of the toner supply container 1 is provided on the peripheral surface of the sealing member 2 for fitting the toner supply container 1 so that the toner supply container 1 can be opened and closed. Alternatively, the toner supply container 1 may be formed with a spiral projection 1b formed inside the toner supply container 1 which is generally well known, or may have another configuration.
【0027】また、本発明の実施の形態1におけるトナ
ー補給容器1内のトナーを搬送する駆動手段としては、
上記の回転駆動だけに限定するものではなく、トナー補
給容器1を振動、あるいは揺動、またはその他の駆動方
法によりトナーを補給するものであれば、他の構成のも
のであってもかまわない。つまり、画像形成装置本体3
3から駆動を受けることによってトナーを排出するトナ
ー補給容器1であれば、その駆動が回転や揺動などの駆
動方法でも良い。The driving means for conveying the toner in the toner supply container 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes:
The present invention is not limited to the above-described rotation drive, and any other configuration may be used as long as the toner is replenished by vibrating or swinging the toner supply container 1 or by another driving method. That is, the image forming apparatus main body 3
As long as the toner supply container 1 discharges the toner by receiving the drive from the drive 3, the drive may be a drive method such as rotation or swing.
【0028】次に、封止部材2について説明する。Next, the sealing member 2 will be described.
【0029】封止部材2は、図2乃至図4に示すよう
に、その軸線方向のトナー補給容器1側の端面をふさい
だ管状に形成され、トナー補給容器1側の周面に排出開
口部2aが開口して形成されており、封止部材2の外周
面が、トナー補給容器1の開口突出部1aの内周面に摺
動可能に嵌入されている。封止部材2の周面に排出開口
部2aを設けたことにより、封止部材2の上からキャッ
プなどで栓をする必要がなくなる。なお、本実施の形態
では、封止部材2に1つの排出開口部2aを設けたが、
2つあるいはそれ以上でもかまわない。また、本実施の
形態では円筒形状の封止部材を用いたが、これ以外にも
例えば四角柱や三角柱などの多角柱形状でも良く、トナ
ー補給容器1の開口突出部1aの形状に応じて適宜選択
可能である。As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, the sealing member 2 is formed in a tubular shape so as to cover the end face on the toner supply container 1 side in the axial direction, and a discharge opening is formed on the peripheral surface on the toner supply container 1 side. The outer peripheral surface of the sealing member 2 is slidably fitted into the inner peripheral surface of the opening projection 1a of the toner supply container 1. By providing the discharge opening 2a on the peripheral surface of the sealing member 2, there is no need to plug the sealing member 2 with a cap or the like. In the present embodiment, although one discharge opening 2a is provided in the sealing member 2,
There can be two or more. Although the cylindrical sealing member is used in the present embodiment, the sealing member may have a polygonal prism shape such as a quadrangular prism or a triangular prism, for example, and may be appropriately determined according to the shape of the opening projecting portion 1a of the toner supply container 1. Can be selected.
【0030】封止部材2の外周面のトナー補給容器1と
反対側の端部には、開口突出部1aの外径よりも大きい
つば部2bが形成されており、封止部材2の周面のつば
部2bとトナー補給容器1の開口突出部1a側との間
に、封止部材2がトナー補給容器1から離間する方向に
付勢するばね3が設けられている。ばね3の付勢力によ
り、トナー補給容器1を画像形成装置本体33から取り
外したときには封止部材2が自動的に元の位置に戻って
開口突出部1aの内周面で排出開口部2aをふさぐこと
によって、操作性が向上する。A flange 2b larger than the outer diameter of the opening projection 1a is formed at the end of the outer peripheral surface of the sealing member 2 on the side opposite to the toner supply container 1. A spring 3 for urging the sealing member 2 in a direction away from the toner replenishing container 1 is provided between the flange portion 2b and the side of the opening protruding portion 1a of the toner replenishing container 1. When the toner supply container 1 is removed from the image forming apparatus main body 33 by the urging force of the spring 3, the sealing member 2 automatically returns to the original position and closes the discharge opening 2a with the inner peripheral surface of the opening protrusion 1a. Thereby, operability is improved.
【0031】更に、ばね3の付勢力により、封止部材2
がトナー補給容器1の開口突出部1aに嵌入された装着
状態での物流時に受ける履歴に対して非常に耐性が高
い。例えば、空輸などによる減圧/昇圧に対しては、封
止部材2の外周面とトナー補給容器1の開口突出部1a
の内周面との微小隙間により圧力調整が容易であり、ト
ナーが漏れ出てくることはない。Further, the urging force of the spring 3 causes the sealing member 2
Is extremely resistant to the history that is received at the time of distribution in the mounted state in which it is fitted into the opening projection 1a of the toner supply container 1. For example, when the pressure is reduced or increased by air or the like, the outer peripheral surface of the sealing member 2 and the opening protrusion 1a of the toner supply container 1 are provided.
The pressure is easy to adjust due to the minute gap with the inner peripheral surface of the toner, and the toner does not leak out.
【0032】次に、トナー補給容器1の画像形成装置本
体33への装着について説明する。Next, the mounting of the toner supply container 1 to the image forming apparatus main body 33 will be described.
【0033】上述した画像形成のプロセスに伴い、トナ
ーの補給によってトナー補給容器1内のトナーが略全量
消費されると、画像形成装置本体33に設けられたトナ
ー補給容器空検知手段(不図示)による検知によって、
図5に示すように、表示部34にトナーが無くなったこ
とが表示され、ユーザーにトナーが無くなったことを知
らせる。When substantially all of the toner in the toner supply container 1 is consumed by toner supply in the above-described image forming process, the toner supply container empty detecting means (not shown) provided in the image forming apparatus main body 33. Detection by
As shown in FIG. 5, the display unit 34 displays that the toner has run out, and notifies the user that the toner has run out.
【0034】そして、ユーザーは表示部34の表示に基
づいてトナー補給容器1の交換を行う。即ち、先ず画像
形成装置本体33のトナー補給容器1が装着されている
外側のカバー35を開け、トナーが無くなったトナー補
給容器1を開口部36から引き抜いて取り外す。トナー
補給容器1を引き抜くことにより、上述したように封止
部材2はばね3の付勢力によって元の位置に戻り、自動
的に封止部材2の排出開口部2aはふさがれる。Then, the user replaces the toner supply container 1 based on the display on the display section 34. That is, first, the outer cover 35 of the image forming apparatus main body 33 on which the toner supply container 1 is mounted is opened, and the toner supply container 1 with no toner is pulled out from the opening 36 and removed. When the toner supply container 1 is pulled out, the sealing member 2 returns to the original position by the urging force of the spring 3 as described above, and the discharge opening 2a of the sealing member 2 is automatically closed.
【0035】そして、トナーが収納されている新たなト
ナー補給容器1を挿入して装着した後、カバー35を閉
めることにより、トナー補給容器1は画像形成装置本体
33に確実に装着される。Then, after inserting and mounting a new toner supply container 1 containing toner, the cover 35 is closed, so that the toner supply container 1 is securely mounted on the image forming apparatus main body 33.
【0036】以下、図6、図7を参照して更に詳細に説
明する。Hereinafter, a more detailed description will be given with reference to FIGS.
【0037】図6に示すように、トナー補給容器1が画
像形成装置本体33の所定位置に装着される前は、トナ
ー補給容器1の開口突出部1a内に封止部材2が摺動可
能に嵌入されていて、開口突出部1aが封止部材2によ
って封止されており、かつ封止部材2の排出開口部2a
も開口突出部1aの内周面でふさがれている。トナー補
給容器1は、画像形成装置本体33内ではローラ45上
に回転自在に保持される。As shown in FIG. 6, before the toner supply container 1 is mounted at a predetermined position on the image forming apparatus main body 33, the sealing member 2 is slidable in the opening protrusion 1a of the toner supply container 1. The opening protrusion 1a is sealed by the sealing member 2, and the discharge opening 2a of the sealing member 2
Is also closed by the inner peripheral surface of the opening projection 1a. The toner supply container 1 is rotatably held on a roller 45 in the image forming apparatus main body 33.
【0038】また、画像形成装置本体33内には、トナ
ー補給容器1の装着位置に合わせて、突き当て部材40
と回転駆動伝達部材44が設けられている。突き当て部
材40は、円筒形状の封止部材2の内周面に摺動可能に
嵌入される管状部41と、封止部材2のつば部2bの位
置に対応して凸状の押し当て部42を有している。In the main body 33 of the image forming apparatus, an abutting member 40 is provided in accordance with the mounting position of the toner supply container 1.
And a rotation drive transmission member 44. The abutting member 40 includes a tubular portion 41 slidably fitted on the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical sealing member 2, and a convex pressing portion corresponding to the position of the flange 2 b of the sealing member 2. 42.
【0039】管状部41の周面には、穴41aと排出口
41bが形成されている。管状部41は封止部材2より
も長く形成されており、図7に示すように、トナー補給
容器1が画像形成装置本体33内の所定位置に装着され
たときに、穴41aが排出開口部2aと合わさり、排出
口41bはつば部2bの外側に位置する。A hole 41a and a discharge port 41b are formed on the peripheral surface of the tubular portion 41. The tubular portion 41 is formed longer than the sealing member 2, and as shown in FIG. 7, when the toner supply container 1 is mounted at a predetermined position in the image forming apparatus main body 33, a hole 41a is formed in the discharge opening. 2a, the outlet 41b is located outside the collar portion 2b.
【0040】また、管状部41の外周面には、トナーに
よる封止部材2の排出開口部2a周辺の汚れを防止する
ために発泡ウレタンなどの弾性部材43が巻きつけられ
ている。これにより、トナーが無くなったトナー補給容
器1を取り外す際に、弾性部材43が封止部材2の内周
面に付着したトナーを拭き取り、封止部材2のトナー汚
れを防止することができる。An elastic member 43 such as urethane foam is wound around the outer peripheral surface of the tubular portion 41 in order to prevent contamination around the discharge opening 2a of the sealing member 2 by toner. Thus, when removing the toner supply container 1 having no toner, the elastic member 43 wipes off the toner attached to the inner peripheral surface of the sealing member 2, thereby preventing toner contamination of the sealing member 2.
【0041】回転駆動伝達部材44は移動自在に設けら
れており、トナー補給容器1の開口突出部1a周辺の面
と封止部材2のつば部2bとの間に挟み込まれることに
よって、トナー補給容器1と封止部材2に回転駆動が伝
達される。回転駆動伝達部材44は、2つあるいはそれ
以上に分割されたディスク状部材によって構成されてお
り、画像形成装置本体33内の駆動源(不図示)に連結
されている。The rotation drive transmitting member 44 is movably provided, and is sandwiched between a surface around the opening projecting portion 1a of the toner replenishing container 1 and the flange portion 2b of the sealing member 2, so that the toner replenishing container 44 is provided. The rotation drive is transmitted to 1 and the sealing member 2. The rotation drive transmission member 44 is configured by a disk-shaped member divided into two or more, and is connected to a drive source (not shown) in the image forming apparatus main body 33.
【0042】そして、図7に示すように、カバー35を
閉めることにより、トナー補給容器1が画像形成装置本
体33内の所定位置まで挿入されてセットされると、突
き当て部材40の管状部41が封止部材2の開口突出部
1aの内周面に摺動可能に嵌入される。そして、更に突
き当て部40の押し当て部42が封止部材2のつば部2
bを押し、封止部材2の先端側がトナー補給容器1内に
入ることにより、排出開口部2aがトナー補給容器1内
に位置する。この際、封止部材2の排出開口部2aと管
状部41の穴41bは略同じ位置にあり、連通状態とな
る。As shown in FIG. 7, when the toner supply container 1 is inserted and set to a predetermined position in the image forming apparatus main body 33 by closing the cover 35, the tubular portion 41 of the abutting member 40 is set. Is slidably fitted into the inner peripheral surface of the opening projection 1a of the sealing member 2. Further, the pressing portion 42 of the abutting portion 40 is connected to the flange 2 of the sealing member 2.
b, the distal end side of the sealing member 2 enters the toner supply container 1, and the discharge opening 2 a is positioned in the toner supply container 1. At this time, the discharge opening 2a of the sealing member 2 and the hole 41b of the tubular portion 41 are located at substantially the same position, and are in a communicating state.
【0043】そして、回転駆動伝達部材44が移動し
て、封止部材2のつば部2bとトナー補給容器1の開口
突出部1a周辺の面との間に入って挟み込まれることに
よって、回転駆動がトナー補給容器1と封止部材2に伝
達され、トナー補給容器1と封止部材2が回転する。ト
ナー補給容器1が回転されることにより、収納されてい
るトナーTは内部の螺旋突起部1b(図2参照)によっ
て開口突出部1a側に搬送される。開口突出部1a側に
搬送されたトナーTは、封止部材2の排出開口部2aと
管状部41の排出口41bを通して管状部41内に入
り、管状部41の穴41aから排出されて現像装置12
に補給される。Then, the rotation drive transmission member 44 moves and is inserted between the flange 2b of the sealing member 2 and the surface around the opening protrusion 1a of the toner supply container 1, whereby the rotation drive is performed. The power is transmitted to the toner supply container 1 and the sealing member 2, and the toner supply container 1 and the sealing member 2 rotate. As the toner supply container 1 is rotated, the stored toner T is conveyed toward the opening protrusion 1a by the internal spiral protrusion 1b (see FIG. 2). The toner T conveyed to the opening projecting portion 1a enters the tubular portion 41 through the discharge opening 2a of the sealing member 2 and the discharge port 41b of the tubular portion 41, and is discharged from the hole 41a of the tubular portion 41 to be developed. 12
Will be replenished.
【0044】このように本実施の形態では、トナー補給
容器1を画像形成装置本体33に挿入して装着した際
に、トナー補給容器1の開口突出部1aに摺動可能に嵌
入されている封止部材2がトナー補給容器1側に押し込
まれるとともに、トナー補給容器1の開口突出部1a周
辺の面と封止部材2のつば部2bとの間に挟み込まれる
回転駆動伝達部材44から伝達される回転駆動力でトナ
ー補給容器1と封止部材2が回転される。As described above, in the present embodiment, when the toner supply container 1 is inserted into the image forming apparatus main body 33 and mounted, the seal that is slidably fitted into the opening projection 1a of the toner supply container 1 is provided. The stop member 2 is pushed into the toner supply container 1 side, and is transmitted from the rotation drive transmission member 44 sandwiched between the surface around the opening protrusion 1a of the toner supply container 1 and the flange 2b of the sealing member 2. The toner supply container 1 and the sealing member 2 are rotated by the rotational driving force.
【0045】よって、トナー補給容器1のトナーTは、
封止部材2の排出開口部2aと管状部41の排出口41
bを通して管状部41内に入り、管状部41の穴41a
から排出されて現像装置12に補給される。Therefore, the toner T in the toner supply container 1 is
The discharge opening 2a of the sealing member 2 and the discharge opening 41 of the tubular portion 41
b into the tubular portion 41, and the hole 41a of the tubular portion 41
And is supplied to the developing device 12.
【0046】よって、トナー補給容器1を画像形成装置
本体33に容易に装着することができ、かつ安価な構成
で容易に封止部材2によるトナー補給容器1の開口突出
部1aの開閉動作及びトナー補給動作と、トナー補給容
器1への回転駆動力伝達のタイミングをマッチングさせ
ることが可能となる。Therefore, the toner replenishing container 1 can be easily mounted on the image forming apparatus main body 33, and the opening and closing operation of the opening protruding portion 1a of the toner replenishing container 1 by the sealing member 2 can be easily performed with an inexpensive structure. It is possible to match the supply operation with the timing of transmitting the rotational driving force to the toner supply container 1.
【0047】なお、本実施の形態では、現像器のシステ
ムが1成分トナーに対応するものであったが、2成分ト
ナーに対応する現像システムに対応することで、トナー
としては1成分トナーの他、2成分トナー、及び2成分
トナーとキャリアの混合物が対応可能である。また、以
下に示す他の実施の形態2から7についても同様であ
る。In the present embodiment, the developing device system corresponds to the one-component toner. However, the developing device corresponds to the developing system corresponding to the two-component toner. And a two-component toner and a mixture of a two-component toner and a carrier. The same applies to other embodiments 2 to 7 described below.
【0048】〈実施の形態2〉実施の形態1では、回転
駆動伝達部材44をトナー補給容器1の開口突出部1a
周辺の面と封止部材2のつば部2bとの間に単に挟み込
んで、回転駆動伝達部材44から伝達される回転駆動力
でトナー補給容器1と封止部材2を回転させる構成であ
ったが、本実施の形態では、図8に示すように、トナー
補給容器1の開口突出部1a周辺の回転駆動伝達部材4
4が接する側面に弾性部材50を設けた構成である。他
の構成及び動作は実施の形態1と同様であり、本実施の
形態ではそれらの説明は省略する。<Second Embodiment> In the first embodiment, the rotational drive transmitting member 44 is connected to the opening projecting portion 1a of the toner supply container 1.
The toner supply container 1 and the sealing member 2 are simply sandwiched between the peripheral surface and the flange portion 2b of the sealing member 2 to rotate the toner supply container 1 and the sealing member 2 by the rotational driving force transmitted from the rotational drive transmitting member 44. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, the rotation drive transmitting member 4 around the opening protrusion 1a of the toner supply container 1 is provided.
In this configuration, an elastic member 50 is provided on a side surface with which 4 contacts. Other configurations and operations are the same as those in the first embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted in the present embodiment.
【0049】このように本実施の形態では、実施の形態
1で得られる効果以外に、トナー補給容器1の開口突出
部1a周辺の回転駆動伝達部材44が接する側面に弾性
部材50を設けたことにより、回転駆動伝達部材44を
トナー補給容器1の開口突出部1a周辺と封止部材2の
つば部2bとの間に挟み込んだ際に、弾性部材50によ
って回転駆動伝達部材44とトナー補給容器1の開口突
出部1a側の側面との摩擦力が増し、回転駆動伝達部材
44の回転駆動力をトナー補給容器1により効果的に伝
達することができる。As described above, in this embodiment, in addition to the effects obtained in the first embodiment, the elastic member 50 is provided on the side surface of the toner supply container 1 around the projecting portion 1a of the toner supply container 1 where the rotation drive transmitting member 44 contacts. Accordingly, when the rotation drive transmission member 44 is sandwiched between the periphery of the opening protruding portion 1a of the toner supply container 1 and the flange 2b of the sealing member 2, the rotation drive transmission member 44 and the toner supply container 1 The frictional force with the side surface on the side of the opening projecting portion 1a is increased, and the rotational driving force of the rotational drive transmitting member 44 can be effectively transmitted to the toner supply container 1.
【0050】〈実施の形態3〉実施の形態2では、トナ
ー補給容器1の開口突出部1a側の回転駆動伝達部材4
4が接する側面に弾性部材50を設けた構成であった
が、本実施の形態では、図9に示すように、トナー補給
容器1の開口突出部1a側の回転駆動伝達部材44が接
する側面に高摩擦抵抗部材51を設けた構成である。高
摩擦抵抗部材51として、例えばプラスチックフィルム
などを用いることができ、また、その静摩擦係数(μ
s)は1〜50(JIS K7125)が好ましい。他
の構成及び動作は実施の形態1と同様であり、本実施の
形態ではそれらの説明は省略する。Third Embodiment In the second embodiment, the rotation drive transmitting member 4 on the side of the opening protruding portion 1a of the toner supply container 1
In the present embodiment, the elastic member 50 is provided on the side surface where the rotation drive transmission member 44 contacts the opening protrusion 1a of the toner supply container 1 as shown in FIG. This is a configuration in which a high friction resistance member 51 is provided. For example, a plastic film or the like can be used as the high friction resistance member 51, and its static friction coefficient (μ
s) is preferably 1 to 50 (JIS K7125). Other configurations and operations are the same as those in the first embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted in the present embodiment.
【0051】本実施の形態において、高摩擦抵抗部材5
1の上記の静摩擦係数(μs)の範囲においては、0.
01〜5N・mの回転トルクの伝達が可能となる。ま
た、静摩擦係数(μs)が1よりも小さいと、トナー補
給容器1の開口突出部1a側の回転駆動伝達部材44が
接する面において滑りが発生する可能性があり、駆動伝
達がスムーズに行われない。また、前記静摩擦係数(μ
s)が50よりも大きいと、何らかの不具合のために、
より大きなトルクが発生する場合があるので、トナー補
給容器1からのトナー補給に支障が生じたり、トルクリ
ミッター等の保護装置が必要となる。In this embodiment, the high friction resistance member 5
In the range of the static friction coefficient (μs) of 1 described above, 0.
Transmission of a rotational torque of 01 to 5 N · m becomes possible. If the coefficient of static friction (μs) is smaller than 1, there is a possibility that slippage may occur on the surface of the toner supply container 1 on the side of the opening projecting portion 1a where the rotation drive transmission member 44 contacts, and the drive transmission is performed smoothly. Absent. In addition, the static friction coefficient (μ
If s) is greater than 50, due to some fault,
Since a larger torque may be generated, the toner replenishment from the toner replenishing container 1 is hindered, and a protection device such as a torque limiter is required.
【0052】このように本実施の形態においても、実施
の形態1で得られる効果以外に、トナー補給容器1の開
口突出部1a側の回転駆動伝達部材44が接する側面に
高摩擦抵抗部材51を設けたことにより、回転駆動伝達
部材44をトナー補給容器1の開口突出部1a周面の面
と封止部材2のつば部2bとの間に挟み込んだ際に、高
摩擦抵抗部材51によって回転駆動伝達部材44とトナ
ー補給容器1の開口突出部1a周辺の側面との摩擦力が
増し、回転駆動伝達部材44の回転駆動力をトナー補給
容器1により効果的に伝達することができる。As described above, also in this embodiment, in addition to the effect obtained in the first embodiment, the high friction resistance member 51 is provided on the side surface of the toner supply container 1 on the side of the opening projecting portion 1a where the rotation drive transmission member 44 contacts. With this arrangement, when the rotational drive transmission member 44 is sandwiched between the peripheral surface of the opening projecting portion 1a of the toner supply container 1 and the flange portion 2b of the sealing member 2, the rotational drive is performed by the high friction resistance member 51. The frictional force between the transmission member 44 and the side surface around the opening protruding portion 1a of the toner supply container 1 increases, so that the rotational driving force of the rotational drive transmission member 44 can be effectively transmitted to the toner supply container 1.
【0053】〈実施の形態4〉実施の形態2では、トナ
ー補給容器1の開口突出部1a側の回転駆動伝達部材4
4が接する側面に弾性部材50を設けた構成であった
が、本実施の形態では、図10に示すように、トナー補
給容器1の開口突出部1a側の回転駆動伝達部材44が
接する側面に複数の微小突起52を設けた構成である。
なお、微小突起52の高さは1mm以下が好ましい。ま
た、本実施の形態では、回転駆動伝達部材44の微小突
起52が接する面に弾性部材を設けても良い。他の構成
及び動作は実施の形態1と同様であり、本実施の形態で
はそれらの説明は省略する。Fourth Embodiment In the second embodiment, the rotation drive transmitting member 4 on the side of the opening protruding portion 1a of the toner supply container 1 is used.
In the present embodiment, the elastic member 50 is provided on the side surface with which the rotation drive transmission member 44 contacts the opening projecting portion 1a of the toner supply container 1 as shown in FIG. This is a configuration in which a plurality of minute projections 52 are provided.
Note that the height of the minute projections 52 is preferably 1 mm or less. Further, in the present embodiment, an elastic member may be provided on the surface of the rotation drive transmission member 44 where the minute projection 52 contacts. Other configurations and operations are the same as those in the first embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted in the present embodiment.
【0054】このように本実施の形態においても、実施
の形態1で得られる効果以外に、トナー補給容器1の開
口突出部1a側の回転駆動伝達部材44が接する側面に
微小突起52を設けたことにより、回転駆動伝達部材4
4をトナー補給容器1の開口突出部1a周辺の面と封止
部材2のつば部2bとの間に挟み込んだ際に、微小突起
52が回転駆動伝達部材44に食い込んで、回転駆動伝
達部材44とトナー補給容器1の開口突出部1a側の側
面との摩擦力が増し、回転駆動伝達部材44の回転駆動
力をトナー補給容器1により効果的に伝達することがで
きる。As described above, also in the present embodiment, in addition to the effect obtained in the first embodiment, the minute projection 52 is provided on the side surface of the toner supply container 1 on the side of the projection 1a of the toner supply container where the rotation drive transmission member 44 contacts. Thus, the rotation drive transmission member 4
When the toner supply container 4 is sandwiched between the surface around the opening protruding portion 1a of the toner supply container 1 and the flange portion 2b of the sealing member 2, the minute projections 52 bite into the rotation drive transmission member 44, and the rotation drive transmission member 44 The frictional force between the toner supply container 1 and the side surface of the toner supply container 1 on the side of the opening protruding portion 1a increases, so that the rotational drive force of the rotational drive transmission member 44 can be transmitted more effectively to the toner supply container 1.
【0055】〈実施の形態5〉実施の形態1では、回転
駆動伝達部材44をトナー補給容器1の開口突出部1a
周辺の面と封止部材2のつば部2bとの間に単に挟み込
んで、回転駆動伝達部材44から伝達される回転駆動力
でトナー補給容器1と封止部材2を回転させる構成であ
ったが、本実施の形態では、図11に示すように、封止
部材2のつば部2bの回転駆動伝達部材44が接する面
に弾性部材53を設けた構成である。他の構成及び動作
は実施の形態1と同様であり、本実施の形態ではそれら
の説明は省略する。<Fifth Embodiment> In the first embodiment, the rotation drive transmitting member 44 is connected to the opening projecting portion 1 a of the toner supply container 1.
The toner supply container 1 and the sealing member 2 are simply sandwiched between the peripheral surface and the flange portion 2b of the sealing member 2 to rotate the toner supply container 1 and the sealing member 2 by the rotational driving force transmitted from the rotational drive transmitting member 44. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, the elastic member 53 is provided on the surface of the flange 2b of the sealing member 2 in contact with the rotation drive transmitting member 44. Other configurations and operations are the same as those in the first embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted in the present embodiment.
【0056】このように本実施の形態においても、実施
の形態1で得られる効果以外に、封止部材2のつば部2
bの回転駆動伝達部材44が接する面に弾性部材53を
設けたことにより、回転駆動伝達部材44をトナー補給
容器1の開口突出部1a周辺の面と封止部材2のつば部
2bとの間に挟み込んだ際に、弾性部材53によって回
転駆動伝達部材44と封止部材2のつば部2bとの摩擦
力が増し、回転駆動伝達部材44の回転駆動力を封止部
材2とトナー補給容器1により効果的に伝達することが
できる。As described above, also in this embodiment, in addition to the effects obtained in the first embodiment, the flange portion 2 of the sealing member 2
Since the elastic member 53 is provided on the surface where the rotation drive transmission member 44b contacts the rotation drive transmission member 44, the rotation drive transmission member 44 is disposed between the surface around the opening protrusion 1a of the toner supply container 1 and the flange 2b of the sealing member 2. When sandwiched, the frictional force between the rotational drive transmitting member 44 and the flange 2b of the sealing member 2 is increased by the elastic member 53, and the rotational driving force of the rotational drive transmitting member 44 is reduced by the sealing member 2 and the toner supply container 1. Can be transmitted more effectively.
【0057】〈実施の形態6〉実施の形態5では、封止
部材2のつば部2bの回転駆動伝達部材44が接する面
に弾性部材53を設けた構成であったが、本実施の形態
では、図12に示すように、封止部材2のつば部2bの
回転駆動伝達部材44が接する面に高摩擦抵抗部材54
を設けた構成である。高摩擦抵抗部材54として、例え
ばプラスチックフィルムなどを用いることができ、ま
た、その静摩擦係数(μs)は1〜50(JIS K7
125)が好ましい。他の構成及び動作は実施の形態1
と同様であり、本実施の形態ではそれらの説明は省略す
る。<Sixth Embodiment> In the fifth embodiment, the elastic member 53 is provided on the surface of the flange portion 2b of the sealing member 2 which is in contact with the rotation drive transmitting member 44. As shown in FIG. 12, a high friction resistance member 54 is provided on the surface of the flange 2b of the sealing member 2 where the rotation drive transmission member 44 is in contact.
Is provided. For example, a plastic film can be used as the high friction resistance member 54, and its static friction coefficient (μs) is 1 to 50 (JIS K7).
125) is preferred. Other configurations and operations are described in Embodiment 1.
The description is omitted in the present embodiment.
【0058】本実施の形態において、高摩擦抵抗部材5
4の上記の静摩擦係数(μs)の範囲においては、0.
01〜5N・mの回転トルクの伝達が可能となる。ま
た、静摩擦係数(μs)が1よりも小さいと、封止部材
2のつば部2bの回転駆動伝達部材44が接する面にお
いて滑りが発生する可能性があり、駆動伝達がスムーズ
に行われない。また、前記静摩擦係数(μs)が50よ
りも大きいと、何らかの不具合のために、より大きなト
ルクが発生する場合があるので、トナー補給容器1から
のトナー補給に支障が生じたり、トルクリミッター等の
保護装置が必要となる。In this embodiment, the high friction resistance member 5
In the above range of the static friction coefficient (μs) of No. 4
Transmission of a rotational torque of 01 to 5 N · m becomes possible. When the coefficient of static friction (μs) is smaller than 1, slippage may occur on the surface of the flange 2b of the sealing member 2 in contact with the rotation drive transmission member 44, and the drive transmission is not performed smoothly. If the coefficient of static friction (μs) is larger than 50, a larger torque may be generated due to some troubles. A protective device is required.
【0059】このように本実施の形態においても、実施
の形態1で得られる効果以外に、封止部材2のつば部2
bの回転駆動伝達部材44が接する面に高摩擦抵抗部材
54を設けたことにより、回転駆動伝達部材44をトナ
ー補給容器1の開口突出部1a側と封止部材2のつば部
2bとの間に挟み込んだ際に、高摩擦抵抗部材54によ
って回転駆動伝達部材44と封止部材2のつば部2bと
の摩擦力が増し、回転駆動伝達部材44の回転駆動力を
封止部材2とトナー補給容器1により効果的に伝達する
ことができる。As described above, also in this embodiment, in addition to the effects obtained in the first embodiment, the flange portion 2 of the sealing member 2
b, the high frictional resistance member 54 is provided on the surface in contact with the rotation drive transmission member 44, so that the rotation drive transmission member 44 is located between the opening protruding portion 1a of the toner supply container 1 and the flange 2b of the sealing member 2. The frictional force between the rotational drive transmitting member 44 and the flange portion 2b of the sealing member 2 is increased by the high frictional resistance member 54, and the rotational driving force of the rotational drive transmitting member 44 is supplied to the sealing member 2 and the toner. More effective transmission can be achieved by the container 1.
【0060】〈実施の形態7〉実施の形態5では、封止
部材2のつば部2bの回転駆動伝達部材44が接する面
に弾性部材53を設けた構成であったが、本実施の形態
では、図13に示すように、封止部材2のつば部2bの
回転駆動伝達部材44が接する面に複数の微小突起55
を設けた構成である。なお、微小突起55の高さは1m
m以下が好ましい。また、本実施の形態では、回転駆動
伝達部材44の微小突起55が接する側に弾性部材を設
けても良い。他の構成及び動作は実施の形態1と同様で
あり、本実施の形態ではそれらの説明は省略する。<Seventh Embodiment> In the fifth embodiment, the elastic member 53 is provided on the surface of the flange portion 2b of the sealing member 2 which is in contact with the rotation drive transmitting member 44. As shown in FIG. 13, a plurality of minute projections 55 are formed on the surface of the flange 2b of the sealing member 2 where the rotation drive transmitting member 44 contacts.
Is provided. The height of the minute projection 55 is 1 m.
m or less is preferable. Further, in the present embodiment, an elastic member may be provided on the side of the rotation drive transmission member 44 where the minute projection 55 contacts. Other configurations and operations are the same as those in the first embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted in the present embodiment.
【0061】このように本実施の形態においても、実施
の形態1で得られる効果以外に、封止部材2のつば部2
bの回転駆動伝達部材44が接する面に微小突起55を
設けたことにより、回転駆動伝達部材44をトナー補給
容器1の開口突出部1a周辺の面と封止部材2のつば部
2bとの間に挟み込んだ際に、微小突起55が回転駆動
伝達部材44に食い込んで、回転駆動伝達部材44と封
止部材2のつば部2bとの摩擦力が増し、回転駆動伝達
部材44の回転駆動力を封止部材2とトナー補給容器1
により効果的に伝達することができる。As described above, also in the present embodiment, in addition to the effects obtained in the first embodiment, the flange portion 2 of the sealing member 2
b, the minute protrusion 55 is provided on the surface in contact with the rotation drive transmission member 44, so that the rotation drive transmission member 44 is positioned between the surface around the opening protrusion 1 a of the toner supply container 1 and the flange 2 b of the sealing member 2. The small protrusion 55 bites into the rotation drive transmission member 44, the frictional force between the rotation drive transmission member 44 and the flange 2b of the sealing member 2 increases, and the rotation drive force of the rotation drive transmission member 44 is reduced. Sealing member 2 and toner supply container 1
Can be transmitted more effectively.
【0062】また、上述した実施の形態2〜7では、ト
ナー補給容器1の開口突出部1a側の回転駆動伝達部材
44が接する面、又は封止部材2のつば部2bの回転駆
動伝達部材44が接する面に、弾性部材50、53、又
は高摩擦抵抗部材51、54、又は微小突起52、55
を設けた構成であったが、回転駆動伝達部材44のトナ
ー補給容器1の開口突出部1a側と接する面、又は回転
駆動伝達部材44の封止部材2のつば部2b側と接する
面、又はその両方の面に、弾性部材又は高摩擦抵抗部材
又は微小突起を設けても良い。In the above-described second to seventh embodiments, the surface of the toner supply container 1 on which the rotational drive transmitting member 44 on the side of the opening projecting portion 1a contacts, or the rotational drive transmitting member 44 of the flange 2b of the sealing member 2 is used. Are in contact with the elastic members 50, 53, or the high friction resistance members 51, 54, or the minute protrusions 52, 55.
However, the surface of the rotation drive transmission member 44 that contacts the opening protruding portion 1a of the toner supply container 1, or the surface of the rotation drive transmission member 44 that contacts the flange 2b side of the sealing member 2, or An elastic member, a high friction resistance member, or a minute projection may be provided on both surfaces.
【0063】また、上述した実施の形態2〜7におい
て、トナー補給容器1の開口突出部1a側の回転駆動伝
達部材44が接する面と、封止部材2のつば部2bの回
転駆動伝達部材44が接する面の両面に、弾性部材又は
高摩擦抵抗部材又は微小突起を設けても良い。Further, in the above-described second to seventh embodiments, the surface of the toner supply container 1 where the rotation drive transmission member 44 on the side of the opening projecting portion 1a is in contact and the rotation drive transmission member 44 of the flange 2b of the sealing member 2 are used. An elastic member, a high-frictional-resistance member, or a minute projection may be provided on both surfaces in contact with each other.
【0064】[0064]
【発明の効果】以上説明したように本発明によれば、画
像形成装置本体への装着を容易に行うことができ、かつ
安価な構成で容易にトナー排出のための開口突出部の開
閉動作及びトナー補給動作と、駆動伝達のタイミングを
マッチングさせることができるトナー補給容器及びトナ
ー補給装置を提供することができる。As described above, according to the present invention, the opening and closing operation of the opening projecting portion for discharging the toner can be easily performed with an inexpensive structure by easily mounting the image forming apparatus body. A toner replenishing container and a toner replenishing device capable of matching the timing of drive transmission with the toner replenishing operation can be provided.
【図1】本発明の実施の形態1に係るトナー補給装置を
備えた画像形成装置を示す概略構成図。FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating an image forming apparatus including a toner supply device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
【図2】本発明の実施の形態1に係るトナー補給容器の
一部破断した斜視図。FIG. 2 is a partially broken perspective view of the toner supply container according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
【図3】本発明の実施の形態1に係る封止部材を示す側
面図。FIG. 3 is a side view showing the sealing member according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
【図4】本発明の実施の形態1に係る封止部材を示す斜
視図。FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a sealing member according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
【図5】本発明の実施の形態1に係るトナー補給容器を
画像形成装置本体に装着するときの状態を示す斜視図。FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating a state where the toner supply container according to the first embodiment of the present invention is mounted on the image forming apparatus main body.
【図6】本発明の実施の形態1に係るトナー補給容器を
画像形成装置本体に装着するときの状態を示す断面図。FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state where the toner supply container according to the first embodiment of the present invention is mounted on the image forming apparatus main body.
【図7】本発明の実施の形態1に係るトナー補給容器を
画像形成装置本体に装着した状態を示す断面図。FIG. 7 is a sectional view showing a state where the toner supply container according to the first embodiment of the present invention is mounted on the image forming apparatus main body.
【図8】本発明の実施の形態2に係るトナー補給容器を
示す断面図。FIG. 8 is a sectional view showing a toner supply container according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.
【図9】本発明の実施の形態3に係るトナー補給容器を
示す断面図。FIG. 9 is a sectional view showing a toner supply container according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.
【図10】本発明の実施の形態4に係るトナー補給容器
を示す断面図。FIG. 10 is a sectional view showing a toner supply container according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention.
【図11】本発明の実施の形態5に係る封止部材を示す
側面図。FIG. 11 is a side view showing a sealing member according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention.
【図12】本発明の実施の形態6に係る封止部材を示す
側面図。FIG. 12 is a side view showing a sealing member according to Embodiment 6 of the present invention.
【図13】本発明の実施の形態7に係る封止部材を示す
側面図。FIG. 13 is a side view showing a sealing member according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention.
【図14】従来例におけるトナー補給容器と封止部材を
示す断面図。FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing a toner supply container and a sealing member in a conventional example.
【符号の説明】 1 トナー補給容器 1a トナー補給容器本体 1b 開口突出部 1c 螺旋突起部 2 封止部材 2a トナー排出口(排出開口部) 2b つば部 3 ばね(付勢部材) 10 感光ドラム 11 1次帯電器 12 現像装置 13 転写帯電器 16 読み取り部 18 定着装置 33 画像形成装置本体 40 突き当て部材 41 管状部(管状部材) 41a 排出口 41b 穴 42 押し当て部 43 弾性部材 44 回転駆動伝達部材(駆動伝達手段) 50、53 弾性部材 51、54 高摩擦抵抗部材 52、55 微小突起(微小突起部材) A トナー補給装置 B 画像形成装置 T トナー[Description of Signs] 1 Toner supply container 1a Toner supply container main body 1b Opening projection 1c Spiral projection 2 Sealing member 2a Toner discharge port (discharge opening) 2b Collar 3 Spring (biasing member) 10 Photosensitive drum 11 1 Next charger 12 Developing device 13 Transfer charger 16 Reading unit 18 Fixing device 33 Image forming apparatus main body 40 Butting member 41 Tubular part (tubular member) 41a Discharge port 41b Hole 42 Pressing part 43 Elastic member 44 Rotational drive transmitting member ( Drive transmission means) 50, 53 Elastic member 51, 54 High friction resistance member 52, 55 Microprojection (microprojection member) A Toner replenishing device B Image forming device T Toner
───────────────────────────────────────────────────── フロントページの続き (72)発明者 伴 豊 東京都大田区下丸子3丁目30番2号 キヤ ノン株式会社内 (72)発明者 田澤 文朗 東京都大田区下丸子3丁目30番2号 キヤ ノン株式会社内 Fターム(参考) 2H077 AA02 AA03 AA05 AA09 AA35 BA01 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuing on the front page (72) Inventor Yutaka Banto 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Inside Canon Inc. (72) Inventor Fumio Tazawa 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Canon F term in the company (reference) 2H077 AA02 AA03 AA05 AA09 AA35 BA01
Claims (43)
るトナー補給容器において、 内部にトナーを収納したトナー補給容器本体と、前記ト
ナー補給容器本体の一端側に突出して形成され、封止部
材により開閉自在に封止されるトナー排出のための開口
突出部とを有し、前記封止部材は、その軸線方向の前記
トナー補給容器本体側の端面をふさいだ管状に形成さ
れ、前記封止部材が、前記トナー補給容器本体の前記開
口突出部の内周面に摺動可能に嵌入されるトナー補給容
器であって、 前記封止部材の嵌入で前記開口突出部を封止した状態か
ら、前記トナー補給容器本体を前記画像形成装置本体に
回転自在に保持して装着することにより、前記画像形成
装置本体に移動自在に設けた駆動伝達手段を少なくとも
前記トナー補給容器本体の前記開口突出部周辺の面に圧
接させて、前記駆動伝達手段から前記トナー補給容器本
体にトナー排出のための駆動伝達を行う、 ことを特徴とするトナー補給容器。1. A toner supply container detachably mounted on a main body of an image forming apparatus, comprising: a toner supply container main body containing toner therein; and a sealing member protruding from one end of the toner supply container main body. An opening protrusion for discharging toner, which is openably and closably sealed by the sealing member, wherein the sealing member is formed in a tubular shape covering an end surface of the toner supply container main body side in the axial direction thereof, and A member is a toner supply container that is slidably fitted into the inner peripheral surface of the opening protrusion of the toner supply container main body, from a state where the opening protrusion is sealed by fitting of the sealing member. The toner supply container main body is rotatably held and mounted on the image forming apparatus main body, so that a drive transmission unit movably provided on the image forming apparatus main body is provided at least in the opening of the toner supply container main body. And is pressed against the surface of the peripheral projecting portion, performing drive transmission for the toner discharged into the toner supply container main body from the drive transmission means, the toner supply container, characterized in that.
体側の周面にトナー排出口が開口して形成されている、 ことを特徴とする請求項1記載のトナー補給容器。2. The toner replenishing container according to claim 1, wherein the sealing member is formed with a toner outlet opening on a peripheral surface of the toner replenishing container main body side.
の前記開口突出部を封止しているときは、前記封止部材
の前記トナー排出口が前記トナー補給容器本体の前記開
口突出部の内周面に接してふさがれている、 ことを特徴とする請求項2記載のトナー補給容器。3. When the opening protruding portion of the toner supply container main body is sealed by the sealing member, the toner discharge port of the sealing member is connected to the opening protruding portion of the toner supply container main body. The toner supply container according to claim 2, wherein the toner supply container is closed in contact with the inner peripheral surface.
の内周面に摺動可能に嵌入される管状部材を有し、前記
管状部材には、前記封止部材に嵌入されたときに前記ト
ナー排出口と合わさる穴が形成されており、前記トナー
補給容器本体が前記画像形成装置本体に装着されると、
前記トナー補給容器本体の前記開口突出部の内周面に摺
動可能に嵌入される前記封止部材の一端側が前記トナー
補給容器本体内に押し込まれて、前記封止部材の前記ト
ナー排出口が前記トナー補給容器本体内に位置するとと
もに、前記管状部材が前記封止部材の内周面に摺動可能
に嵌入される、 ことを特徴とする請求項2又は3記載のトナー補給容
器。4. A tubular member which is slidably fitted into an inner peripheral surface of the sealing member in the image forming apparatus main body, and which is inserted into the tubular member when the sealing member is fitted therein. A hole matching the toner discharge port is formed, and when the toner supply container main body is mounted on the image forming apparatus main body,
One end of the sealing member slidably fitted into the inner peripheral surface of the opening projection of the toner supply container main body is pushed into the toner supply container main body, and the toner discharge port of the sealing member is closed. The toner supply container according to claim 2, wherein the toner supply container is located in the toner supply container main body, and the tubular member is slidably fitted to an inner peripheral surface of the sealing member.
前記封止部材の前記トナー排出口から前記穴を通して、
前記管状部材の前記トナー補給容器本体と反対側から現
像手段に補給可能となる、 ことを特徴とする請求項4記載のトナー補給容器。5. The toner in the toner supply container main body,
Through the hole from the toner outlet of the sealing member,
The toner supply container according to claim 4, wherein the toner can be supplied to the developing unit from the opposite side of the tubular member from the toner supply container main body.
ける、 ことを特徴とする請求項4記載のトナー補給容器。6. The toner supply container according to claim 4, wherein an elastic member is attached to an outer peripheral surface of said tubular member.
容器本体と反対側に、前記開口突出部の外径よりも大き
いつば部を設け、前記つば部と前記トナー補給容器本体
の前記開口突出部周囲の面との間に前記駆動伝達手段を
挟み込む、 ことを特徴とする請求項1記載のトナー補給容器。7. A flange which is larger than an outer diameter of the opening protruding portion is provided on an outer peripheral surface of the sealing member on a side opposite to the toner supply container main body, and the flange and the opening of the toner supply container main body are provided. 2. The toner supply container according to claim 1, wherein the drive transmission unit is interposed between the drive transmission unit and a surface around the protrusion. 3.
補給容器本体の前記開口突出部周囲の面との間に、前記
封止部材を前記トナー補給容器本体から離間する方向に
付勢する付勢部材を設けた、 ことを特徴とする請求項7記載のトナー補給容器。8. The sealing member is urged between the collar portion of the sealing member and a surface around the projecting portion of the toner supply container body in a direction away from the toner supply container body. The toner supply container according to claim 7, further comprising an urging member.
部周囲の前記駆動伝達手段と当接する面に弾性部材を固
着する、 ことを特徴とする請求項7記載のトナー補給容器。9. The toner supply container according to claim 7, wherein an elastic member is fixed to a surface of the toner supply container main body, which is in contact with the drive transmission means, around the opening protrusion.
出部周囲の前記駆動伝達手段と当接する面に高摩擦抵抗
部材を固着する、 ことを特徴とする請求項7記載のトナー補給容器。10. The toner supply container according to claim 7, wherein a high friction resistance member is fixed to a surface of the toner supply container main body, which is in contact with the drive transmission means, around the opening protrusion.
s)は1〜50(JIS K7125)である、 ことを特徴とする請求項10記載のトナー補給容器。11. The coefficient of static friction (μ) of the high friction resistance member
The toner supply container according to claim 10, wherein s) is 1 to 50 (JIS K7125).
出部周囲の前記駆動伝達手段と当接する面に複数の微小
突起部材を固着する、 ことを特徴とする請求項7記載のトナー補給容器。12. The toner supply container according to claim 7, wherein a plurality of minute projection members are fixed to a surface of the toner supply container main body, which is in contact with the drive transmitting means, around the opening protrusion.
伝達手段と当接する面に弾性部材を固着する、 ことを特徴とする請求項7記載のトナー補給容器。13. The toner supply container according to claim 7, wherein an elastic member is fixed to a surface of the sealing member, which is in contact with the drive transmission means, of the flange portion.
伝達手段と当接する面に高摩擦抵抗部材を固着する、 ことを特徴とする請求項7記載のトナー補給容器。14. The toner supply container according to claim 7, wherein a high frictional resistance member is fixed to a surface of the sealing member that comes into contact with the drive transmission means of the collar portion.
s)は1〜50(JIS K7125)である、 ことを特徴とする請求項14記載のトナー補給容器。15. The static friction coefficient (μ) of the high friction resistance member
The toner supply container according to claim 14, wherein s) is 1 to 50 (JIS K7125).
伝達手段と当接する面に複数の微小突起部材を固着す
る、 ことを特徴とする請求項7記載のトナー補給容器。16. The toner supply container according to claim 7, wherein a plurality of minute projection members are fixed to a surface of the sealing member that comes into contact with the drive transmission means.
れるトナー補給容器を備えたトナー補給装置において、 前記トナー補給容器を構成する内部にトナーを収納した
トナー補給容器本体と、前記トナー補給容器本体の一端
側に突出して形成され、封止部材により開閉自在に封止
されるトナー排出のための開口突出部とを有し、前記封
止部材は、その軸線方向の前記トナー補給容器本体側の
端面をふさいだ管状に形成され、前記封止部材が、前記
トナー補給容器本体の前記開口突出部の内周面に摺動可
能に嵌入されるトナー補給装置であって、 前記封止部材の嵌入で前記開口突出部を封止した状態か
ら、前記トナー補給容器本体を前記画像形成装置本体に
回転自在に保持して装着することにより、前記画像形成
装置本体に移動自在に設けた駆動伝達手段を少なくとも
前記トナー補給容器本体の前記開口突出部周辺の面に圧
接させて、前記駆動伝達手段から前記トナー補給容器本
体にトナー排出のための駆動伝達を行う、 ことを特徴とするトナー補給装置。17. A toner replenishing apparatus including a toner replenishing container detachably mounted on an image forming apparatus main body, wherein the toner replenishing container main body containing toner inside the toner replenishing container, and the toner replenishing container. An opening protrusion for discharging toner, which is formed so as to protrude from one end side of the main body and is openably and closably sealed by a sealing member, wherein the sealing member is disposed on the toner supply container main body side in the axial direction thereof. A toner replenishing device formed in a tubular shape with an end face closed, wherein the sealing member is slidably fitted into an inner peripheral surface of the opening protruding portion of the toner replenishing container main body; The toner supply container main body is rotatably held and mounted on the image forming apparatus main body from a state in which the opening projecting portion is sealed by fitting, so that the toner supply container main body is movably provided on the image forming apparatus main body. A toner transmitting means for transmitting toner from the drive transmitting means to the toner replenishing container main body by bringing a transmitting means into pressure contact with at least a surface of the toner replenishing container main body around the opening protrusion; apparatus.
本体側の周面にトナー排出口が開口して形成されてい
る、 ことを特徴とする請求項17記載のトナー補給装置。18. The toner replenishing device according to claim 17, wherein the sealing member is formed with a toner outlet opening on a peripheral surface of the toner replenishing container body side.
体の前記開口突出部を封止しているときは、前記封止部
材の前記トナー排出口が前記トナー補給容器本体の前記
開口突出部の内周面に接してふさがれている、 ことを特徴とする請求項18記載のトナー補給装置。19. When the opening protruding portion of the toner supply container main body is sealed by the sealing member, the toner discharge port of the sealing member is connected to the opening protruding portion of the toner supply container main body. 19. The toner supply device according to claim 18, wherein the toner supply device is closed in contact with the inner peripheral surface.
材の内周面に摺動可能に嵌入される管状部材を有し、前
記管状部材には、前記封止部材に嵌入されたときに前記
トナー排出口と合わさる穴が形成されており、前記トナ
ー補給容器本体が前記画像形成装置本体に装着される
と、前記トナー補給容器本体の前記開口突出部の内周面
に摺動可能に嵌入される前記封止部材の一端側が前記ト
ナー補給容器本体内に押し込まれて、前記封止部材の前
記トナー排出口が前記トナー補給容器本体内に位置する
とともに、前記管状部材が前記封止部材の内周面に摺動
可能に嵌入される、 ことを特徴とする請求項18又は19記載のトナー補給
装置。20. The image forming apparatus further includes a tubular member slidably fitted on an inner peripheral surface of the sealing member in the main body of the image forming apparatus. A hole is formed to match the toner discharge port, and when the toner supply container main body is mounted on the image forming apparatus main body, the toner supply container main body is slidably fitted into the inner peripheral surface of the opening projecting portion of the toner supply container main body. One end of the sealing member is pushed into the toner supply container main body, the toner outlet of the sealing member is located in the toner supply container main body, and the tubular member is formed of the sealing member. The toner supply device according to claim 18, wherein the toner supply device is slidably fitted to the inner peripheral surface.
は、前記封止部材の前記トナー排出口から前記穴を通し
て、前記管状部材の前記トナー補給容器本体と反対側か
ら現像手段に補給可能となる、 ことを特徴とする請求項20記載のトナー補給装置。21. The toner in the toner supply container main body can be supplied to the developing means from the side opposite to the toner supply container main body of the tubular member through the hole from the toner discharge port of the sealing member. 21. The toner supply device according to claim 20, wherein:
付ける、 ことを特徴とする請求項20記載のトナー補給装置。22. The toner replenishing device according to claim 20, wherein an elastic member is attached to an outer peripheral surface of the tubular member.
給容器本体と反対側に、前記開口突出部の外径よりも大
きいつば部を設け、前記つば部と前記トナー補給容器本
体の前記開口突出部周囲の面との間に前記駆動伝達手段
を挟み込む、 ことを特徴とする請求項17記載のトナー補給装置。23. A flange, which is larger than the outer diameter of the opening protrusion, is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the sealing member on the side opposite to the toner supply container main body, and the flange and the opening of the toner supply container main body are provided. 18. The toner supply device according to claim 17, wherein the drive transmission unit is interposed between a surface around the protruding portion.
ー補給容器本体の前記開口突出部周囲の面との間に、前
記封止部材を前記トナー補給容器本体から離間する方向
に付勢する付勢部材を設けた、 ことを特徴とする請求項23記載のトナー補給装置。24. The sealing member is urged between the collar portion of the sealing member and a surface around the opening projecting portion of the toner supply container body in a direction away from the toner supply container body. The toner supply device according to claim 23, further comprising an urging member.
出部周囲の前記駆動伝達手段と当接する面に弾性部材を
固着する、 ことを特徴とする請求項23記載のトナー補給装置。25. The toner replenishing device according to claim 23, wherein an elastic member is fixed to a surface of the toner replenishing container main body, which is in contact with the drive transmission means, around the opening protrusion.
出部周囲の前記駆動伝達手段と当接する面に高摩擦抵抗
部材を固着する、 ことを特徴とする請求項23記載のトナー補給装置。26. The toner replenishing device according to claim 23, wherein a high friction resistance member is fixed to a surface of the toner replenishing container main body, which is in contact with the drive transmission means, around the opening protrusion.
s)は1〜50(JIS K7125)である、 ことを特徴とする請求項26記載のトナー補給装置。27. The coefficient of static friction (μ) of the high friction resistance member
The toner supply device according to claim 26, wherein s) is 1 to 50 (JIS K7125).
出部周囲の前記駆動伝達手段と当接する面に複数の微小
突起部材を固着する、 ことを特徴とする請求項23記載のトナー補給装置。28. The toner replenishing apparatus according to claim 23, wherein a plurality of minute projection members are fixed to a surface of the toner replenishment container main body, which is in contact with the drive transmission means, around the opening protrusion.
伝達手段と当接する面に弾性部材を固着する、 ことを特徴とする請求項23記載のトナー補給装置。29. The toner replenishing apparatus according to claim 23, wherein an elastic member is fixed to a surface of the sealing member that comes into contact with the drive transmission means of the collar portion.
伝達手段と当接する面に高摩擦抵抗部材を固着する、 ことを特徴とする請求項23記載のトナー補給装置。30. The toner replenishing device according to claim 23, wherein a high friction resistance member is fixed to a surface of the sealing member that comes into contact with the drive transmission means of the collar portion.
s)は1〜50(JIS K7125)である、 ことを特徴とする請求項30記載のトナー補給装置。31. The coefficient of static friction (μ) of the high friction resistance member
31. The toner replenishing device according to claim 30, wherein s) is 1 to 50 (JIS K7125).
伝達手段と当接する面に複数の微小突起部材を固着す
る、 ことを特徴とする請求項23記載のトナー補給装置。32. The toner replenishing device according to claim 23, wherein a plurality of minute projection members are fixed to a surface of the sealing member that comes into contact with the drive transmission means of the collar portion.
器本体の一端側に突出して形成して形成されたトナー排
出のための開口突出部を開閉自在に封止する封止部材に
おいて、 前記封止部材を、前記トナー補給容器本体の前記開口突
出部の内周面に摺動可能に嵌入して前記開口突出部を封
止した状態から、前記トナー補給容器本体を前記画像形
成装置本体に回転自在に保持して装着することにより、
前記画像形成装置本体に移動自在に設けた駆動伝達手段
を、前記封止部材と前記トナー補給容器本体との間に挟
みこんで、前記駆動伝達手段から前記トナー補給容器本
体にトナー排出のための駆動伝達を行う、 ことを特徴とする封止部材。33. A sealing member for opening and closing an opening projecting portion for discharging toner formed by projecting from one end side of a toner supply container main body containing a toner therein, wherein the sealing is performed. The toner supply container main body is rotatable with respect to the image forming apparatus main body from a state where the member is slidably fitted into the inner peripheral surface of the opening protruding portion of the toner supply container main body and the opening protruding portion is sealed. By holding and attaching to
A drive transmission means movably provided in the image forming apparatus main body is sandwiched between the sealing member and the toner supply container main body, and the drive transmission means for discharging toner from the drive transmission means to the toner supply container main body. A sealing member, which performs drive transmission.
トナー補給容器本体側の端面をふさいだ管状に形成さ
れ、前記トナー補給容器本体側の周面にトナー排出口が
開口して形成されている、 ことを特徴とする請求項33記載の封止部材。34. The sealing member is formed in a tubular shape so as to cover an end surface of the toner supply container main body side in the axial direction, and a toner discharge opening is formed on a peripheral surface of the toner supply container main body side. The sealing member according to claim 33, wherein:
体の前記開口突出部を封止しているときは、前記封止部
材の前記トナー排出口が前記トナー補給容器本体の前記
開口突出部の内周面に接してふさがれている、 ことを特徴とする請求項34記載の封止部材。35. When the sealing member seals the opening protruding portion of the toner supply container main body, the toner discharge port of the sealing member is connected to the opening protruding portion of the toner replenishing container main body. The sealing member according to claim 34, wherein the sealing member is closed in contact with the inner peripheral surface.
材の内周面に摺動可能に嵌入される管状部材を有し、前
記管状部材には、前記封止部材に嵌入されたときに前記
トナー排出口と合わさる穴が形成されており、前記トナ
ー補給容器本体が前記画像形成装置本体に装着される
と、前記トナー補給容器本体の前記開口突出部の内周面
に摺動可能に嵌入される前記封止部材の一端側が前記ト
ナー補給容器本体内に押し込まれて、前記封止部材の前
記トナー排出口が前記トナー補給容器本体内に位置する
とともに、前記管状部材が前記封止部材の内周面に摺動
可能に嵌入される、 ことを特徴とする請求項34又は35記載の封止部材。36. A tubular member which is slidably fitted to the inner peripheral surface of the sealing member in the image forming apparatus main body, and which is inserted into the tubular member when the sealing member is fitted thereto. A hole is formed to match the toner discharge port, and when the toner supply container main body is mounted on the image forming apparatus main body, the toner supply container main body is slidably fitted into the inner peripheral surface of the opening projecting portion of the toner supply container main body. One end of the sealing member is pushed into the toner supply container main body, the toner outlet of the sealing member is located in the toner supply container main body, and the tubular member is formed of the sealing member. The sealing member according to claim 34 or 35, wherein the sealing member is slidably fitted into the inner peripheral surface.
は、前記封止部材の前記トナー排出口から前記穴を通し
て、前記管状部材の前記トナー補給容器本体と反対側か
ら現像手段に補給可能となる、 ことを特徴とする請求項36記載の封止部材。37. The toner in the toner supply container main body can be supplied to the developing unit from the opposite side of the tubular member from the toner supply container main body through the hole from the toner discharge port of the sealing member. 37. The sealing member according to claim 36, wherein:
給容器本体と反対側に、前記開口突出部の外径よりも大
きいつば部を設け、前記つば部と前記トナー補給容器本
体の前記開口突出部周囲の面との間に前記駆動伝達手段
を挟み込む、 ことを特徴とする請求項33記載の封止部材。38. A flange, which is larger than the outer diameter of the opening projection, is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the sealing member on the side opposite to the toner supply container main body, and the flange and the opening of the toner supply container main body are provided. 34. The sealing member according to claim 33, wherein the drive transmission unit is sandwiched between a surface around the protruding portion.
ー補給容器本体の前記開口突出部周囲の面との間に、前
記封止部材を前記トナー補給容器本体から離間する方向
に付勢する付勢部材を設けた、 ことを特徴とする請求項38記載の封止部材。39. The sealing member is urged between the collar portion of the sealing member and a surface around the opening projecting portion of the toner supply container body in a direction away from the toner supply container body. The sealing member according to claim 38, wherein an urging member is provided.
達手段と当接する面に弾性部材を固着する、 ことを特徴とする請求項38記載の封止部材。40. A sealing member according to claim 38, wherein an elastic member is fixed to a surface of said sealing member which contacts said drive transmission means of said collar.
達手段と当接する面に高摩擦抵抗部材を固着する、 ことを特徴とする請求項38記載の封止部材。41. The sealing member according to claim 38, wherein a high frictional resistance member is fixed to a surface of the sealing member that comes into contact with the drive transmission means.
s)は1〜50(JIS K7125)である、 ことを特徴とする請求項41記載の封止部材。42. The coefficient of static friction (μ) of the high friction resistance member
The sealing member according to claim 41, wherein s) is 1 to 50 (JIS K7125).
達手段と当接する面に複数の微小突起部材を固着する、 ことを特徴とする請求項38記載の封止部材。43. The sealing member according to claim 38, wherein a plurality of minute projection members are fixed to a surface of the sealing member which comes into contact with the drive transmission means of the collar.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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JP2001164744A JP2002357946A (en) | 2001-05-31 | 2001-05-31 | Toner replenishing container, toner replenishing device and sealing member |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
JP2001164744A JP2002357946A (en) | 2001-05-31 | 2001-05-31 | Toner replenishing container, toner replenishing device and sealing member |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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JP2002357946A true JP2002357946A (en) | 2002-12-13 |
Family
ID=19007521
Family Applications (1)
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JP2001164744A Pending JP2002357946A (en) | 2001-05-31 | 2001-05-31 | Toner replenishing container, toner replenishing device and sealing member |
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