JP2018066891A - Powder storage device and image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To obtain a powder storage device that can intend to increase the amount of powder to be stored.SOLUTION: A powder storage device 30 comprises: a container 31 that has a bottom part 36 for storing powder; and an excitation mechanism that vibrates the bottom part 36 of the container 31 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the bottom part. An inner surface 36S of the bottom part 36 includes a first area A1 provided with a plurality of first projections T1 and a second area A2 provided with a plurality of second projections T2. Each of the plurality of first projections T1 has a first inclined surface S1 that is vibrated by the excitation mechanism to move powder in a first direction DR1b, and each of the plurality of second projections T2 has a second inclined surface S2 that is vibrated by the excitation mechanism to move powder in a second direction DR2b. The first direction DR1b and second direction DR2b are different directions from each other.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

  The present invention relates to a powder container for accommodating powder and an image forming apparatus including such a powder container.

  When powder is stored in a container, it is desirable that many powders can be stored in the container. For example, in an image forming apparatus, after toner is removed from the surface of the image carrier by a cleaning blade or the like, the toner is deposited in a container. It would be desirable to be able to accommodate more toner in the container.

  Although the powder (collection of a plurality of powders) has fluidity, it is not easy to widely disperse the powder on the bottom surface of the container unless special measures are taken. When the powder is deposited unevenly in the container, the utilization efficiency of the space in the container is lowered, and it becomes difficult to accommodate a lot of powder in the container.

  Although the technical field is different from that of the powder container, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-92223 (Patent Document 1) provides a plurality of protrusions on the bottom surface of a passage for conveying toner and vibrates the protrusions. A technique for conveying toner in one direction is disclosed. In Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-334840 (Patent Document 2), a saw-like projection is provided on the inner wall of a conduit for conveying powder, and the powder is conveyed in one direction by vibrating the projection. Technology is disclosed.

JP2015-92223A JP-A-11-334840

  When the techniques described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 are applied to a powder container, the powder deposited on the bottom surface of the container moves only in one direction on the bottom surface of the container. Therefore, even if the techniques disclosed in these documents can be applied to the powder container, it is difficult to widely disperse the powder on the bottom surface of the container, and an increase in the powder capacity cannot be expected.

  The present invention was created in view of the above-described circumstances, and is a powder storage device capable of increasing the powder storage capacity, and an image forming apparatus including such a powder storage device. An object is to provide an apparatus.

  A powder container according to the present invention has a bottom and includes a container for storing powder, and a vibration mechanism that vibrates the bottom in a direction substantially perpendicular to the bottom of the container. The inner surface of the bottom includes a first region provided with a plurality of first protrusions and a second region provided with a plurality of second protrusions, and each of the plurality of first protrusions includes The powder has a first slope that moves the powder in a first direction by being vibrated by a vibration mechanism, and each of the plurality of second protrusions is vibrated by the vibration mechanism. Is moved in the second direction, and the first direction and the second direction are different from each other.

  Preferably, in the powder container, the first region includes a first range and a second range into which the powder flows more than the first range, and is provided within the second range. The plurality of first protrusions are formed so that the number of installations per unit area of the bottom is greater than the plurality of first protrusions provided in the first range, or It is defined when the average length of the first slope in the direction perpendicular to the direction 1 is increased or when the bottom is viewed in plan along the direction perpendicular to the bottom. The first slope is formed so as to have a high density, or the inclination angle of the first slope with respect to the bottom is increased.

  Preferably, in the powder container, the bottom portion of the container has a shape extending along a longitudinal direction, and the first region and the second region are aligned in the longitudinal direction of the bottom portion. The first inclined surface formed on each of the plurality of first protrusions and the second inclined surface formed on each of the plurality of second protrusions are perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the bottom portion. The first direction is a direction from one outer side to the inner side in the longitudinal direction of the bottom portion, and the second direction is the longitudinal direction of the bottom portion. This is a direction from the other outer side toward the inner side in the direction.

  Preferably, in the powder container, the plurality of first protrusions provided in the first region and the plurality of second protrusions provided in the second region are the length of the bottom portion. A plane that passes through the central portion in the direction and is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is provided so as to have a plane-symmetric shape with a symmetrical reference plane.

  Preferably, in the powder container, the plurality of first protrusions provided in the first region are such that the one outer side in the longitudinal direction of the bottom part has a unit area of the bottom part rather than the inner side. The plurality of second protrusions provided in the second region are formed so that the number of hits per installation is increased, and the other outer side in the longitudinal direction of the bottom part is more than the inner side. It forms so that the installation number per unit area of the said bottom part may increase.

  Preferably, in the powder container, the inner surface of the bottom portion further includes a flat region, the flat region has a flat surface shape, and the first region and the second region in the longitudinal direction, Located between.

  Preferably, in the powder container, the plurality of first protrusions provided in the first region are arranged such that the one outer side in the longitudinal direction of the bottom part is more to the bottom part than the inner side. A plurality of the second protrusions provided in the second region are formed so that the density of the first slope defined when the bottom is viewed in plan along the vertical direction is increased. The density of the second slope defined when the bottom portion of the bottom portion in the longitudinal direction of the bottom portion is viewed in plan along a direction perpendicular to the bottom portion is higher than that of the inner portion. It is formed as follows.

  Preferably, in the powder container, the plurality of first protrusions provided in the first region are configured such that the one outer side in the longitudinal direction of the bottom part is inclined with respect to the bottom part rather than the inner side. The plurality of second protrusions provided in the second region are inclined with respect to the bottom portion on the other outer side in the longitudinal direction of the bottom portion than on the inner side. The angle is formed to be large.

  Preferably, in the powder container, the plurality of first protrusions provided in the first region are arranged such that the one outer side in the longitudinal direction of the bottom portion is in the first direction than the inner side. The length of the first slope in the direction perpendicular to the length is increased, and the plurality of second protrusions provided in the second region are formed in the longitudinal direction of the bottom portion. The other outer side is formed so that the length of the second inclined surface in the direction perpendicular to the second direction is longer than the inner side.

  Preferably, in the powder container, the inner surface of the bottom is provided with a plurality of third protrusions, and a third region adjacent to the first region in a direction perpendicular to the first direction; A plurality of fourth protrusions, and a fourth region adjacent to the second region in a direction perpendicular to the second direction, wherein each of the plurality of third protrusions And a third inclined surface that moves the powder in the second direction by being vibrated by a mechanism, and each of the plurality of fourth protrusions is caused to vibrate the powder by being vibrated by the excitation mechanism. A fourth inclined surface that moves in the first direction is provided.

  Preferably, in the powder container, the plurality of third protrusions provided in the third region are such that the one outer side in the longitudinal direction of the bottom part has a unit area of the bottom part rather than the inner side. The plurality of fourth protrusions provided in the fourth region are formed so that the number of hits is reduced, and the other outer side in the longitudinal direction of the bottom portion is more than the inner side. The number of installations per unit area of the bottom is reduced.

  Preferably, in the powder container, the plurality of third protrusions provided in the third region are arranged such that the one outer side in the longitudinal direction of the bottom is in the second direction than the inner side. The third slope in the direction perpendicular to the length of the third slope is shortened, and the plurality of fourth protrusions provided in the fourth region are formed in the longitudinal direction of the bottom. The other outer side is formed so that the length of the fourth slope in the direction perpendicular to the first direction is shorter than the inner side.

  An image forming apparatus according to the present invention includes the powder storage device according to the present invention and an image carrier, and the container stores the toner as the powder removed from the image carrier. .

  According to the above configuration, the powder deposited on the bottom surface of the container is moved in two directions different from each other on the bottom surface of the container in response to the conveying force from the vibrating first and second protrusions. Since the powder is dispersed in at least two directions on the bottom surface of the container, it is possible to contemplate an increase in the powder capacity.

1 is a schematic diagram showing an image forming apparatus 100 according to Embodiment 1. FIG. FIG. 2A is a plan view showing the blade 29 and the receiving portion 35 and the bottom portion 36 of the container 31, and is visible when the bottom portion 36 is viewed in a plan view along a direction perpendicular to the bottom portion 36. The situation is depicted schematically. FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line II (B) -II (B) in FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the operation of image forming apparatus 100 and powder container 30 in Embodiment 1. FIG. 6 is a plan view for explaining the operation of image forming apparatus 100 and powder container 30 in Embodiment 1. FIG. FIG. 10 is another plan view for explaining the operation of image forming apparatus 100 and powder container 30 in the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view for describing a modification example in the first embodiment. FIG. 7A is a plan view showing the bottom portion 36 of the container 31 with respect to the powder container in the second embodiment, and when the bottom portion 36 is viewed in plan along a direction perpendicular to the bottom portion 36. The state of being visually recognized is schematically depicted. FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line VII (B) -VII (B) in FIG. FIG. 8A is a plan view showing the bottom portion 36 of the container 31 with respect to the powder container in the third embodiment, and when the bottom portion 36 is viewed in plan along a direction perpendicular to the bottom portion 36. The state of being visually recognized is schematically depicted. FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line VIII (B) -VIII (B) in FIG. FIG. 9A is a plan view showing the bottom portion 36 of the container 31 with respect to the powder container in the fourth embodiment, and when the bottom portion 36 is viewed in plan along a direction perpendicular to the bottom portion 36. The state of being visually recognized is schematically depicted. FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line IX (B) -IX (B) in FIG. FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a bottom portion 36 of a container 31 with respect to the powder container in Embodiment 5, and is a schematic view of the bottom portion 36 viewed in plan along a direction perpendicular to the bottom portion 36. It is drawn in. FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a bottom portion 36 of a container 31 with respect to the powder container in Embodiment 6, and is a schematic view of the bottom portion 36 viewed in plan along a direction perpendicular to the bottom portion 36. It is drawn in.

  Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. The same parts and corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description may not be repeated.

[Embodiment 1]
(Image forming apparatus 100)
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment. The image forming apparatus 100 includes image forming units 10Y, 10M, 10C, and 10K, an intermediate transfer belt 17 (image carrier), a support roller 18, a secondary transfer roller 19, a cassette 20, a paper feed roller 21, a fixing device 22, a discharge device. A paper unit 23, a primary cleaning device 24, a secondary cleaning device 27, and a reading device 28 are provided.

  Each of the image forming units 10Y, 10M, 10C, and 10K includes a photoreceptor 11, a charging device 12, an exposure device 13, a developing device 14, a primary transfer roller 15, and a cleaning device 16. The surface of the photoreceptor 11 is uniformly charged by the charging device 12. The exposure device 13 exposes the surface of the photoconductor 11 based on the image information from the reading device 28. An electrostatic latent image is formed on the surface of the photoreceptor 11.

  When the developing device 14 develops the electrostatic latent image, a toner image corresponding to the image information is formed on the surface of the photoreceptor 11. The toner image is transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 17 at a primary transfer portion between the photoconductor 11 and the primary transfer roller 15. The toner remaining on the surface of the photoconductor 11 is removed from the surface of the photoconductor 11 by the cleaning device 16.

  The intermediate transfer belt 17 is stretched by a plurality of support rollers 18 and travels by receiving a driving force. The toner images formed by the image forming units 10Y, 10M, 10C, and 10K are superimposed on the intermediate transfer belt 17. The transfer paper P in the cassette 20 is sent out via a paper feed roller 21.

  The toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 17 is transferred onto the transfer paper P at the secondary transfer portion between the support roller 18 and the secondary transfer roller 19. The toner image on the transfer paper P is heated and pressurized by the fixing device 22 and fixed on the transfer paper P. Thereafter, the transfer paper P is discharged to the paper discharge unit 23.

  The primary cleaning device 24 includes a container 25 and a blade 26. Most of the toner remaining on the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 17 is removed from the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 17 by the blade 26. The toner remaining on the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 17 is further removed from the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 17 by a secondary cleaning device 27 described below.

(Secondary cleaning device 27)
The secondary cleaning device 27 has a blade 29 and a powder container 30. The blade 29 is positioned downstream of the blade 26 of the primary cleaning device 24 in the rotational direction of the intermediate transfer belt 17 and is in contact with the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 17.

  Similar to the blade 26 of the primary cleaning device 24, the blade 29 has a plate shape and extends in a direction perpendicular to the width direction of the intermediate transfer belt 17. The width direction of the intermediate transfer belt 17 is a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction (the direction of the rotation axis) of the photoconductor 11 and the support roller 18.

(Powder container 30)
The powder container 30 stores the toner (powder) removed from the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 17 by the blade 29. Specifically, the powder container 30 includes a container 31 and a vibration mechanism 32. The container 31 has a receiving part 35 and a bottom part 36. A hollow storage space is formed inside the container 31, and the container 31 stores the toner (powder) removed from the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 17 by the blade 29 in the storage space.

  FIG. 2A is a plan view showing the blade 29 and the receiving portion 35 and the bottom portion 36 of the container 31, and is visible when the bottom portion 36 is viewed in a plan view along a direction perpendicular to the bottom portion 36. The situation is depicted schematically. FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line II (B) -II (B) in FIG.

  Each of the receiving part 35 and the bottom part 36 has a long shape extending along the longitudinal direction AR1. The longitudinal direction AR1 referred to here is a direction parallel to the width direction of the intermediate transfer belt 17 (longitudinal direction of the photoconductor 11 and the support roller 18 (direction of the rotation axis)). The receiving portion 35 is disposed below the blade 29 in the direction of gravity.

  The inner surface 35S of the receiving portion 35 has a surface shape that is inclined with respect to the direction of gravity so as to go downward in the direction of gravity as the distance from the blade 29 increases (see FIG. 1). The bottom portion 36 has a plate shape and is connected to the lower end of the receiving portion 35. FIG. 1 illustrates a state in which the bottom portion 36 is arranged so as to be substantially parallel to the horizontal direction. The inner surface 36 </ b> S (FIG. 2) of the bottom portion 36 may have a surface shape that is inclined with respect to the gravitational direction so as to go downward in the gravitational direction as the distance from the receiving portion 35 increases.

  The vibration mechanism 32 (see FIG. 1) vibrates the bottom portion 36 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the bottom portion 36 of the container 31 (see an arrow AR3 shown in FIG. 3). The vibration mechanism 32 of the present embodiment includes a lever 33 that is swingably supported, a drive source 34, and a spring. When the drive source 34 drives the lever 33, the lever 33 rotates against the elastic force of the spring. When the drive is released, the lever 33 rotates sharply under the elastic restoring force of the spring, and the lever 33 gives an appropriate impact force to the container 31. The bottom portion 36 of the container 31 will vibrate in a direction substantially perpendicular to the bottom portion 36 (arrow AR3).

  As shown in FIG. 2 (A), when the inner surface 36S of the bottom portion 36 of the container 31 is viewed in plan, the inner surface 36S extends from the end located on one outer side 36A in the longitudinal direction AR1 to the other surface in the same direction. It extends in a rectangular shape (band shape) toward the end located on the outer side 36B. For convenience of explanation, a central portion 36C is defined at the position of the center of the inner surface 36S in the longitudinal direction AR1.

(First area A1 and second area A2)
The inner surface 36S of the bottom portion 36 includes a first region A1 and a second region A2. The first region A1 and the second region A2 both have a rectangular outer shape, and are aligned with each other in the longitudinal direction AR1 of the inner surface 36S. The central portion 36C extends linearly between the first region A1 and the second region A2 so as to divide the inner surface 36S into two parts, the first region A1 and the second region A2.

(First protrusion T1)
A plurality of first protrusions T1 are provided in the first region A1. Each of the plurality of first protrusions T1 has a triangular prism shape, and extends linearly along the direction of the arrow AR2 shown in FIG. The direction of the arrow AR2 is a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction AR1. The direction of the arrow AR2 is also a direction perpendicular to the thickness direction of the bottom portion 36 (direction perpendicular to the bottom portion 36).

  As shown in FIG. 2B, the plurality of first protrusions T1 as a whole have a substantially serrated cross-sectional shape, and each of the plurality of first protrusions T1 includes the first slope S1 and the first side surface. L1 (see also FIG. 3). The first slope S1 is inclined with respect to the direction of gravity so that the height of the portion close to the center portion 36C is relatively low and the height of the portion close to one outer side 36A is relatively high. It has a flat surface shape.

  When the bottom part 36 has a plate-like shape, for example, a reference plane PL (FIG. 3) parallel to the back surface 36T (FIG. 3) of the bottom part 36 is defined. The inclination angle θ1 (FIG. 3) formed by the first slope S1 with respect to the reference plane PL is larger than 0 ° and smaller than 90 °. The first side face L1 of the present embodiment has a surface shape perpendicular to the reference plane PL.

  When the bottom portion 36 receives an impact force (excitation force) from the vibration mechanism 32 (FIG. 1), the bottom portion 36 vibrates in a direction (arrow AR3) substantially perpendicular to the bottom portion 36. Each of the plurality of first slopes S1 having the shape as described above is vibrated to move the toner in the direction of the arrow DR1a shown in FIG.

  Specifically, when the first inclined surface S1 is vibrated, the toner deposited on the first inclined surface S1 receives a force (conveying force) in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first inclined surface S1, and thus the first Fly in a direction substantially perpendicular to the slope S1. The toner falls like a parabola by the action of gravity. When the toner repeats this movement, the entire toner moves in the first direction DR1b. In the present embodiment, the first direction DR1b is a direction from one outer side 36A toward the inner side (center portion 36C) in the longitudinal direction AR1 of the bottom portion 36.

(Second protrusion T2)
A plurality of second protrusions T2 are provided in the second region A2. Each of the plurality of second protrusions T2 has a triangular prism shape, and extends linearly along the direction of the arrow AR2 shown in FIG. The direction of the arrow AR2 is a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction AR1. The direction of the arrow AR2 is also a direction perpendicular to the thickness direction of the bottom portion 36 (direction perpendicular to the bottom portion 36).

  As shown in FIG. 2B, the plurality of second protrusions T2 as a whole have a substantially serrated cross-sectional shape, and each of the plurality of second protrusions T2 includes the second slope S2 and the second side surface. L2 (see also FIG. 3). The second slope S2 is inclined with respect to the direction of gravity so that the height of the portion near the center 36C is relatively low and the height of the portion near the other outer side 36B is relatively high. It has a flat surface shape.

  When the bottom part 36 has a plate-like shape, for example, a reference plane PL (FIG. 3) parallel to the back surface 36T (FIG. 3) of the bottom part 36 is defined. The inclination angle θ2 (FIG. 3) formed by the second slope S2 with respect to the reference plane PL is larger than 0 ° and smaller than 90 °. Second side face L2 of the present embodiment has a surface shape perpendicular to reference plane PL.

  When the bottom portion 36 receives an impact force (excitation force) from the vibration mechanism 32 (FIG. 1), the bottom portion 36 vibrates in a direction (arrow AR3) substantially perpendicular to the bottom portion 36. Each of the plurality of second slopes S2 having the shape as described above is vibrated to move the toner in the direction of the arrow DR2a shown in FIG.

  Specifically, when the second slope S2 is vibrated, the toner deposited on the second slope S2 receives a force (conveying force) in a direction substantially perpendicular to the second slope S2, and the second slope S2. Fly in a direction substantially perpendicular to the slope S2. The toner falls like a parabola by the action of gravity. When the toner repeats this movement, the entire toner moves in the second direction DR2b. In the present embodiment, the second direction DR2b is a direction from the other outer side 36B toward the inner side (center portion 36C) in the longitudinal direction AR1 of the bottom portion 36, and the first direction DR1b and the second direction DR2b. Are different directions.

(Function and effect)
As mentioned at the beginning, powder (a collection of multiple powders) has fluidity, but if no special measures are taken, it is not possible to disperse the powder widely on the bottom of the container. It's not easy. When the powder is deposited unevenly in the container, the utilization efficiency of the space in the container is lowered, and it becomes difficult to accommodate a lot of powder in the container.

  For example, in the image forming apparatus, the blade 26 of the primary cleaning device 24 (see FIG. 1) removes toner from the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 17. Here, a relatively large amount of toner may slip through the blade 26 on both outer sides in the longitudinal direction AR1, and a relatively small amount of toner may slip through the blade 26 on the center side (inner side) in the same direction. The toner slipping through the blade 26 means that the toner remains on the intermediate transfer belt 17 without being removed by the blade 26 and moves downstream.

  Referring to FIG. 4, in the above case, a relatively large amount of toner is removed by blades 29 on both outer sides M1, M2 in the longitudinal direction AR1, and on the central side (inner side N1, N2) in the same direction. A relatively small amount of toner is removed by the blade 29. As a result, the toner accumulates quickly on both outer sides M1, M2 in the longitudinal direction AR1, and the toner accumulates later on the center side (inner side N1, N2) in the same direction.

  When no special measures are taken, the toner hardly scatters widely on the bottom 36 (inner surface 36S) of the container 31. For example, when toner is biased and accumulated on both outer sides M1 and M2 in the longitudinal direction AR1, the utilization efficiency of the space in the container 31 is lowered, and it becomes difficult to accommodate a large amount of powder in the container 31. . As shown by the dotted lines in FIG. 4, when the toner accumulated in a large amount on both outer sides M1 and M2 in the longitudinal direction AR1 reaches the blade 29, the toner easily slips out from the blade 29, and as a result, image defects are likely to occur. .

  Referring to FIG. 5, according to the configuration of the first embodiment described above, the toner deposited on the bottom surface of container 31 (inner surface 36S of bottom portion 36) is oscillated from first protrusion T1 and second protrusion T2 that vibrate. And the toner moves in two different directions on the bottom surface of the container 31 (that is, the first direction DR1b and the second direction DR2b), so that the toner moves in at least two directions on the bottom surface of the container 31. Since the toner particles are dispersed, it is possible to attempt to increase the toner capacity.

  In the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment, a relatively large amount of toner is removed by the blades 29 on both outer sides M1 and M2 in the longitudinal direction AR1, and relative to the central side (inner side N1 and N2) in the same direction. This is particularly effective when a small amount of toner is removed by the blade 29.

(Modification)
Referring to FIG. 6, in the first embodiment described above, first side face L1 of first protrusion T1 has a surface shape perpendicular to reference plane PL. As shown in FIG. 6, the first side face L1 of the first protrusion T1 may have a surface shape that intersects the reference plane PL. The same applies to the second side face L2 of the second protrusion T2. When the first side face L1 and the second side face L2 have an inclination angle of less than 90 ° with respect to the reference plane PL, when the bottom portion 36 of the container 31 is produced using a mold, the bottom portion 36 is made of a mold. The mold can be easily released from the mold.

  When the vibration mechanism 32 (FIG. 1) and the container 31 vibrate the bottom portion 36 (inner surface 36S) of the container 31 by the vibration mechanism 32, the frequency of the vibration is set to several Hz to several hundred Hz. It is good to be configured as follows. According to this configuration, since the first inclined surface S1 and the second inclined surface S2 vibrate so as to meet the falling of the toner, the toner can be conveyed or dispersed more efficiently.

  If the direction parallel to the thickness direction of the bottom portion 36 (the direction perpendicular to the bottom portion 36) is defined as “height”, the heights of the first protrusion T1 and the second protrusion T2 are the above-described embodiments. 1 are all the same, but may be different from each other. As the height is lower, the toner can be conveyed or dispersed with a smaller amplitude of vibration, so that it is possible to further increase the toner capacity.

  A plane passing through the center portion 36C in the longitudinal direction AR1 of the bottom portion 36 and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction AR1 is defined as a reference plane C (see FIG. 2B). In the present embodiment, the plurality of first protrusions T1 provided in the first area A1 and the plurality of second protrusions T2 provided in the second area A2 have a symmetric reference plane C. It is provided so as to form a plane-symmetric shape as a plane. Without being limited to this configuration, the plurality of first protrusions T1 and the plurality of second protrusions T2 may be provided so as to form an asymmetric shape with the reference plane C as a symmetric reference plane.

[Embodiment 2]
FIG. 7A is a plan view showing the bottom portion 36 of the container 31 with respect to the powder container in the second embodiment, and when the bottom portion 36 is viewed in plan along a direction perpendicular to the bottom portion 36. The state of being visually recognized is schematically depicted. FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line VII (B) -VII (B) in FIG. The powder container of Embodiments 1 and 2 are different from each other in the following points.

  The plurality of first protrusions T1 provided in the first region A1 has a per unit area of the bottom portion 36 on one outer side 36A in the longitudinal direction AR1 of the bottom portion 36 rather than the inner side (side closer to the center portion 36C). It is formed so that the number of installations increases. For example, when the first range R1a and the second range R1b in the first region A1 are compared, in the second range R1b located outside, three first protrusions T1 are provided per unit area U1. In the first range R1a located inside, two first protrusions T1 are provided per unit area U1. Depending on the shape of the first slope S1 and the like, the larger the number of installations, the greater the conveyance force may be obtained. For example, when more toner flows into the second range R1b than the first range R1a, The configuration can be utilized particularly effectively.

  The plurality of second protrusions T2 provided in the second region A2 has a per unit area of the bottom portion 36 on the other outer side 36B in the longitudinal direction AR1 of the bottom portion 36 rather than on the inner side (side closer to the center portion 36C). It is formed so that the number of installations increases. For example, when comparing the first range R2a and the second range R2b in the second region A2, three second protrusions T2 are provided per unit area U2 in the second range R2b located outside. In the first range R1a located on the inner side, two second protrusions T2 are provided per unit area U2. Depending on the shape of the second slope S2, etc., the larger the number of installations, the greater the conveyance force may be obtained. For example, when more toner flows into the second range R2b than the first range R2a, The configuration can be utilized particularly effectively.

  In the present embodiment, the plurality of first protrusions T1 provided in the first region A1 is such that one outer side 36A in the longitudinal direction AR1 of the bottom portion 36 is on the inner side (side closer to the center portion 36C). Also, the inclination angle (inclination angle θ1 shown in FIG. 3) of the first slope S1 with respect to the bottom portion 36 (reference plane PL shown in FIG. 3) is formed to be large. For example, when the first range R1a and the second range R1b in the first region A1 are compared, the inclination angle of the first slope S1 of the first protrusion T1 formed in the second range R1b located outside. Is relatively large, and the inclination angle of the first slope S1 of the first protrusion T1 formed in the first range R1a located inside is relatively small. Depending on the shape or the like of the first slope S1, the greater the inclination angle θ1, the greater the conveyance force may be obtained. For example, when more toner flows into the second range R1b than the first range R1a, This configuration can be used particularly effectively. The technical idea relating to the magnitude of the inclination angle of the first slope S1 can be implemented in combination with the above technical idea relating to the number of the first protrusions T1, and the number of the first protrusions T1 to be installed. It is also possible to implement without combining with the above-mentioned technical idea regarding the degree of the above.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the plurality of second protrusions T2 provided in the second region A2 is such that the other outer side 36B in the longitudinal direction AR1 of the bottom portion 36 is on the inner side (side closer to the center portion 36C). Also, the inclination angle (inclination angle θ2 shown in FIG. 3) of the second inclined surface S2 with respect to the bottom 36 (reference plane PL shown in FIG. 3) is formed to be large. For example, when the first range R2a and the second range R2b in the second region A2 are compared, the inclination angle of the second inclined surface S2 of the second protrusion T2 formed in the second range R2b located outside. Is relatively large, and the inclination angle of the second slope S2 of the second protrusion T2 formed in the first range R2a located on the inner side is relatively small. Depending on the shape or the like of the second slope S2, the greater the inclination angle θ2, the greater the conveyance force may be obtained. For example, when more toner flows into the second range R2b than the first range R2a, This configuration can be used particularly effectively. The technical idea relating to the magnitude of the inclination angle of the second slope S2 can be implemented in combination with the above technical idea relating to the number of installation of the second protrusions T2, and the number of installations of the second protrusions T2. It is also possible to implement without combining with the above-mentioned technical idea regarding the degree of the above.

[Embodiment 3]
FIG. 8A is a plan view showing the bottom portion 36 of the container 31 with respect to the powder container in the third embodiment, and when the bottom portion 36 is viewed in plan along a direction perpendicular to the bottom portion 36. The state of being visually recognized is schematically depicted. FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line VIII (B) -VIII (B) in FIG. The powder container of Embodiments 1 and 3 are different from each other in the following points.

  The plurality of first protrusions T1 provided in the first region A1 has a per unit area of the bottom portion 36 on one outer side 36A in the longitudinal direction AR1 of the bottom portion 36 rather than the inner side (side closer to the center portion 36C). It is formed so that the number of installations increases. In the above-described second embodiment, this configuration is realized by a plurality of first protrusions T1 having different shapes. In the present embodiment, this is realized by a plurality of first protrusions T1 having the same shape. The interval between the plurality of first protrusions T1 is narrower on one outer side 36A in the longitudinal direction AR1 of the bottom part 36 than on the inner side (side closer to the center part 36C). A flat surface (inner surface 36S) of the bottom portion 36 is formed between the two first protrusions T1 that are arranged adjacent to each other with a space therebetween. Depending on the shape or the like of the first slope S1, the greater the number of installations, the greater the conveyance force may be obtained. This configuration can be used particularly effectively when a large amount of toner flows into the range.

  The plurality of second protrusions T2 provided in the second region A2 has a per unit area of the bottom portion 36 on the other outer side 36B in the longitudinal direction AR1 of the bottom portion 36 rather than on the inner side (side closer to the center portion 36C). It is formed so that the number of installations increases. In the above-described second embodiment, this configuration is realized by a plurality of second protrusions T2 having different shapes. In the present embodiment, this is realized by a plurality of second protrusions T2 having the same shape. The interval between the plurality of second protrusions T2 is narrower on the other outer side 36B in the longitudinal direction AR1 of the bottom part 36 than on the inner side (side closer to the center part 36C). A flat surface (inner surface 36S) of the bottom portion 36 is formed between the two second protrusions T2 that are arranged so as to be adjacent to each other with a space therebetween. Depending on the shape of the second slope S2 and the like, the larger the number of installations, the greater the conveyance force may be obtained. This configuration can be used particularly effectively when a large amount of toner flows into the range.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the plurality of first protrusions T1 provided in the first region A1 are perpendicular to the bottom portion 36 on the one outer side 36A in the longitudinal direction AR1 of the bottom portion 36 rather than on the inner side. It is formed so that the density of the first slope S1 defined (or visually recognized) when the bottom portion 36 is viewed in plan along a certain direction is increased. In the second embodiment described above (see FIG. 7A), when the first area A1 of the bottom portion 36 is viewed in plan as described above, a plurality of areas are filled so as to fill all areas in the first area A1. 1st slope S1 will be visually recognized. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, when the first region A1 of the bottom portion 36 is viewed in plan as described above, the plurality of first inclined surfaces S1 are such that one outer side 36A has a higher density than the inner side. The state of arrangement will be visually recognized. Depending on the shape or the like of the first slope S1, the higher the density (arrangement density), the more conveyance force may be obtained. For example, the arrangement of the first slope S1 is less than the range where the arrangement density of the first slope S1 is small. This configuration can be used particularly effectively when a large amount of toner flows into a high density range. The technical idea regarding the arrangement density of the first slope S1 can be implemented in combination with the above technical idea concerning the number of the first protrusions T1, and the number of the first protrusions T1 is set. It is also possible to implement without combining with the above-mentioned technical idea regarding the degree of the above.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the plurality of second protrusions T2 provided in the second region A2 are perpendicular to the bottom portion 36 on the other outer side 36B in the longitudinal direction AR1 of the bottom portion 36 than on the inner side. It is formed so that the density of the second slope S <b> 2 defined (or visually recognized) when the bottom portion 36 is viewed in plan along a certain direction becomes high. In the above-described second embodiment (see FIG. 7A), when the second region A2 of the bottom portion 36 is viewed in plan as described above, a plurality of regions are filled so as to fill all the regions in the second region A2. The second slope S2 is visually recognized. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, when the second region A2 of the bottom portion 36 is viewed in plan as described above, the plurality of second inclined surfaces S2 have a higher density on the other outer side 36B than on the inner side. The state of arrangement will be visually recognized. Depending on the shape or the like of the second slope S2, the higher the density (arrangement density), the more conveyance force may be obtained. For example, the arrangement of the second slope S2 is less than the range where the arrangement density of the second slope S2 is low. This configuration can be used particularly effectively when a large amount of toner flows into a high density range. The technical idea relating to the arrangement density of the second slope S2 can be implemented in combination with the above technical idea relating to the number of the second protrusions T2, and the number of the second protrusions T2 to be installed. It is also possible to implement without combining with the above-mentioned technical idea regarding the degree of the above.

[Embodiment 4]
FIG. 9A is a plan view showing the bottom portion 36 of the container 31 with respect to the powder container in the fourth embodiment, and when the bottom portion 36 is viewed in plan along a direction perpendicular to the bottom portion 36. The state of being visually recognized is schematically depicted. FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view taken along the line IX (B) -IX (B) in FIG. The powder container of Embodiments 1 and 4 are different from each other in the following points.

  The inner surface 36S of the bottom portion 36 further includes a flat region A5. The flat region A5 has a flat surface shape and is located between the first region A1 and the second region A2 in the longitudinal direction AR1. Yes. In each of the above-described embodiments, the first region A1 provided with the plurality of first protrusions T1 and the second region A2 provided with the plurality of second protrusions T2 are all on the inner surface 36S of the bottom portion 36. It is formed to cover the range of. This configuration is not essential, and the first region A1 provided with the plurality of first protrusions T1 and the second region A2 provided with the plurality of second protrusions T2 are the bottom portion 36 as in the present embodiment. It may be formed so as to cover a part of the inner surface 36S. For example, the configuration of the present embodiment can be used particularly effectively when a large amount of toner flows into the first area A1 and the second area A2 compared to the flat area A5.

[Embodiment 5]
FIG. 10 is a plan view showing the bottom portion 36 of the container 31 with respect to the powder container in the fifth embodiment, which is visually recognized when the bottom portion 36 is viewed in plan along a direction perpendicular to the bottom portion 36. A state is drawn typically. The powder container of Embodiments 1 and 5 are different from each other in the following points.

  In the present embodiment, the first region A1 has a right triangle outer shape in plan view, and the plurality of first protrusions T1 provided in the first region A1 is one of the bottom portions 36 in the longitudinal direction AR1. The outer side 36A is formed such that the length LT1 of the first slope S1 is longer than the inner side (side closer to the center part 36C). The length LT1 of the first slope S1 is the length in the direction perpendicular to the first direction DR1b, and the length LT1 of the first slope S1 in the direction perpendicular to the first direction DR1b. Is, for example, the distance between the portions P1 and P2 located just in the center of the first slope S1 in the first direction DR1b. The portion P1 is a portion located at the center of one end portion of the first slope S1 in the direction of the arrow AR2. The portion P2 is a portion located at the center of the other end portion of the first slope S1 in the direction of the arrow AR2. The direction of the arrow AR2 is a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction AR1. For example, when the first range R1a and the second range R1b in the first area A1 are compared, the average value of the lengths LT1 of the plurality of first protrusions T1 included in the second range R1b located on the outside The (average length) is longer than the average value (average length) of the lengths LT1 of the plurality of first protrusions T1 included in the first range R1a located inside. Depending on the shape or the like of the first slope S1, the longer the length LT1, the more conveying force may be obtained. For example, when more toner flows into the second range R1b than the first range R1a, This configuration can be used particularly effectively.

  In the present embodiment, the second region A2 has a right triangle outer shape in plan view, and the plurality of second protrusions T2 provided in the second region A2 are the other in the longitudinal direction AR1 of the bottom portion 36. The outer side 36B is formed such that the length LT2 of the second slope S2 is longer than the inner side (side closer to the center part 36C). The length LT2 of the second slope S2 is the length in the direction perpendicular to the second direction DR2b, and the length LT2 of the second slope S2 in the direction perpendicular to the second direction DR2b. Is, for example, the distance between the portions P1 and P2 located just in the center in the second direction DR2b of the second slope S2. The portion P1 is a portion located at the center of one end portion of the second slope S2 in the direction of the arrow AR2. The portion P2 is a portion located at the center of the other end portion of the second slope S2 in the direction of the arrow AR2. The direction of the arrow AR2 is a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction AR1. For example, when the first range R2a and the second range R2b in the second region A2 are compared, the average value of the lengths LT2 of the plurality of second protrusions T2 included in the second range R2b located on the outside The (average length) is longer than the average value (average length) of the lengths LT2 of the plurality of second protrusions T2 included in the first range R2a located inside. Depending on the shape or the like of the second slope S2, the longer the length LT2, the more conveying force may be obtained. For example, when more toner flows into the second range R2b than the first range R2a, This configuration can be used particularly effectively.

[Embodiment 6]
FIG. 11 is a plan view showing the bottom portion 36 of the container 31 with respect to the powder container in the sixth embodiment, which is visually recognized when the bottom portion 36 is viewed in a plan view along a direction perpendicular to the bottom portion 36. A state is drawn typically. The powder container of Embodiments 5 and 6 are different from each other in the following points.

  The inner surface 36S of the bottom portion 36 further includes a third region A3 and a fourth region A4 in addition to the first region A1 and the second region A2. Each of the third region A3 and the fourth region A4 has an outer shape of a right triangle in plan view. The third region A3 is adjacent to the first region A1 in the direction perpendicular to the first direction DR1b, and the fourth region A4 is the above in the direction perpendicular to the second direction DR2b. Adjacent to the second region A2.

(Third protrusion T3)
A plurality of third protrusions T3 are provided in the third region A3. Each of the plurality of third protrusions T3 has a triangular prism shape and extends linearly along the direction of the arrow AR2. The direction of the arrow AR2 is a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction AR1. The direction of the arrow AR2 is also a direction perpendicular to the thickness direction of the bottom portion 36 (direction perpendicular to the bottom portion 36). The plurality of third protrusions T3 as a whole have a substantially serrated cross-sectional shape, and each of the plurality of third protrusions T3 has a third slope S3. The third slope S3 is inclined with respect to the direction of gravity so that the height of the portion near the center portion 36C is relatively high and the height of the portion near one outer side 36A is relatively low. It has a flat surface shape. When the bottom portion 36 receives an impact force (excitation force) from the vibration mechanism 32 (FIG. 1), the bottom portion 36 vibrates in a direction substantially perpendicular to the bottom portion 36. The plurality of third inclined surfaces S3 having the shape as described above are vibrated to move the toner in the second direction DR2b shown in FIG.

(Fourth protrusion T4)
A plurality of fourth protrusions T4 are provided in the fourth region A4. Each of the plurality of fourth protrusions T4 has a triangular prism shape, and extends linearly along the direction of the arrow AR2. The direction of the arrow AR2 is a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction AR1. The direction of the arrow AR2 is also a direction perpendicular to the thickness direction of the bottom portion 36 (direction perpendicular to the bottom portion 36). The plurality of fourth protrusions T4 as a whole have a substantially serrated cross-sectional shape, and each of the plurality of fourth protrusions T4 has a fourth slope S4. The fourth slope S4 is inclined with respect to the direction of gravity so that the height of the portion near the center 36C is relatively high and the height of the portion near the other outer side 36B is relatively low. It has a flat surface shape. When the bottom portion 36 receives an impact force (excitation force) from the vibration mechanism 32 (FIG. 1), the bottom portion 36 vibrates in a direction substantially perpendicular to the bottom portion 36. The plurality of fourth inclined surfaces S4 having the shape as described above are vibrated to move the toner in the first direction DR1b shown in FIG.

(Function and effect)
The toner that has flowed into the first area A1 is conveyed in the first direction DR1b. A plurality of third protrusions T3 are present in front of the plurality of first protrusions T1 provided in the first region A1 in the first direction DR1b. The toner that has flowed into the third area A3 from the first area A1 receives a conveying force in the direction conveyed in the second direction DR2b. The first direction DR1b and the second direction DR2b are opposite to each other. When the toner conveyed in the first direction DR1b and the toner conveyed in the second direction DR2b are pressed against each other, a part of the toner flows in the direction indicated by the arrow AR2. Since the periphery of the first region A1 and the third region A3 (the periphery of the region in which the first region A1 and the third region A3 are generally rectangular) is surrounded by an inner wall or a step, the first region The toner that has flowed into the third area A3 from A1 easily flows in the direction indicated by the arrow AR2a, and hardly flows in the direction indicated by the arrow AR2b. As a result, the toner that has flowed into the third area A3 from the first area A1 flows mainly in the direction indicated by the arrow AR2 toward the upper side in FIG. 11 (arrow AR2a). Similarly, the toner that has flowed into the first area A1 from the third area A3 tends to flow in the direction indicated by the arrow AR2b and hardly flows in the direction indicated by the arrow AR2a due to the presence of the inner wall and the step. As a result, the toner that has flowed into the first area A1 from the third area A3 flows mainly in the direction indicated by the arrow AR2 toward the lower side in FIG. 11 (arrow AR2b). The toner moves around in the first area A1 and the third area A3 as a whole. Since the toner is prevented from being deposited on the bottom surface of the container 31 (on the first area A1 and the third area A3), it is possible to increase the toner capacity.

  The toner that has flowed into the second region A2 is conveyed in the second direction DR2b. A plurality of fourth protrusions T4 are present in front of the plurality of second protrusions T2 provided in the second region A2 in the second direction DR2b. The toner that has flowed into the fourth area A4 from the second area A2 receives a conveying force in the direction conveyed in the first direction DR1b. The second direction DR2b and the first direction DR1b are opposite to each other. When the toner conveyed in the second direction DR2b and the toner conveyed in the first direction DR1b are pressed against each other, a part of the toner flows in the direction indicated by the arrow AR2. Since the periphery of the second region A2 and the fourth region A4 (the periphery of the region in which the second region A2 and the fourth region A4 have a rectangular shape as a whole) is surrounded by an inner wall or a step, the second region The toner that has flowed into the fourth area A4 from A2 easily flows in the direction indicated by the arrow AR2a, and hardly flows in the direction indicated by the arrow AR2b. As a result, the toner that has flowed from the second area A2 into the fourth area A4 flows mainly in the direction indicated by the arrow AR2 toward the upper side in FIG. 11 (arrow AR2a). Similarly, the toner that has flowed into the second area A2 from the fourth area A4 tends to flow in the direction indicated by the arrow AR2b due to the presence of the inner wall and the step, and hardly flows in the direction indicated by the arrow AR2a. As a result, the toner that has flowed from the fourth area A4 into the second area A2 flows mainly in the direction indicated by the arrow AR2 toward the lower side in FIG. 11 (arrow AR2b). The toner moves around in the second area A2 and the fourth area A4 as a whole. Since the toner is prevented from being deposited on the bottom surface of the container 31 (on the second area A2 and the fourth area A4), it is possible to increase the toner capacity.

(Modification)
The features related to the circular movement described in the present embodiment can be implemented in combination with any one or a plurality of configurations of the above-described first to fourth embodiments.

  For example, in the configuration of the present embodiment, as described in the above-described second and third embodiments, the plurality of third protrusions T3 provided in the third region A3 is one of the bottom portions 36 in the longitudinal direction AR1. The outer side 36 </ b> A is formed so that the number of installations per unit area of the bottom part 36 is smaller than the inner side, and the plurality of fourth protrusions T <b> 4 provided in the fourth region A <b> 4 is the length of the bottom part 36. The other outer side 36B in the direction AR1 may be formed such that the number of installations per unit area of the bottom part 36 is smaller than the inner side.

  In the configuration of the present embodiment, as described in the above-described fifth embodiment, the plurality of third protrusions T3 provided in the third region A3 are formed on one outer side 36A in the longitudinal direction AR1 of the bottom portion 36. Are formed such that the length of the third slope S3 in the direction perpendicular to the second direction DR2b is shorter than the inner side, and a plurality of fourth protrusions T4 provided in the fourth region A4. The other outer side 36B in the longitudinal direction AR1 of the bottom part 36 may be formed such that the length of the fourth slope S4 in the direction perpendicular to the first direction DR1b is shorter than the inner side.

  That is, only one of the features described in the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth embodiments described above can be implemented alone or two of them. Or a combination of three, a combination of four, a combination of five, or a combination of six.

  Although the embodiment has been described above, the above disclosure is illustrative in all respects and is not restrictive. The technical scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

  10C, 10K, 10M, 10Y Image forming unit, 11 photoconductor, 12 charging device, 13 exposure device, 14 developing device, 15 primary transfer roller, 16 cleaning device, 17 intermediate transfer belt, 18 support roller, 19 secondary transfer Roller, 20 Cassette, 21 Feed roller, 22 Fixing device, 23 Discharge unit, 24 Primary cleaning device, 25, 31 Container, 26, 29 Blade, 27 Secondary cleaning device, 28 Reading device, 30 Powder container , 32 Excitation mechanism, 33 Lever, 34 Drive source, 35 Receiving part, 35S, 36S Inner surface, 36 Bottom part, 36A One outer side, 36B The other outer side, 36C Center part, 36T Back side, 100 Image forming apparatus, A1 1st 1 region, A2 2nd region, A3 3rd region, A4 4th region, A5 flat region, AR1 Longitudinal direction, AR2, AR2a, AR2b, AR3, DR1a, DR2a arrow, C reference plane, DR1b first direction, DR2b second direction, L1 first side face, L2 second side face, LT1, LT2 length, N1, N2 inside, P transfer paper, P1, P2 portion, PL reference plane, R1a, R2a first range, R1b, R2b second range, S1 first slope, S2 second slope, S3 third slope, S4 fourth slope, T1 1st protrusion, T2 2nd protrusion, T3 3rd protrusion, T4 4th protrusion, U1, U2 Unit area.

Claims (13)

A container having a bottom and containing powder;
An excitation mechanism that vibrates the bottom in a direction substantially perpendicular to the bottom of the container,
The inner surface of the bottom is
A first region provided with a plurality of first protrusions;
A second region provided with a plurality of second protrusions,
Each of the plurality of first protrusions has a first inclined surface that moves the powder in a first direction by being vibrated by the excitation mechanism,
Each of the plurality of second protrusions has a second inclined surface that moves the powder in a second direction by being vibrated by the excitation mechanism,
The first direction and the second direction are different from each other.
Powder container. The first region includes a first range and a second range in which the powder flows in more than the first range,
The plurality of first protrusions provided in the second range are more than the plurality of first protrusions provided in the first range,
Is formed so as to increase the number of installation per unit area of the bottom,
Whether the average length of the first slope in the direction perpendicular to the first direction is long, or
The first slope is formed so as to have a higher density defined when the bottom is viewed in plan along a direction perpendicular to the bottom; or
It is formed so that an inclination angle of the first slope with respect to the bottom portion is increased.
The powder container according to claim 1. The bottom of the container has a shape extending along a longitudinal direction;
The first region and the second region are aligned in the longitudinal direction of the bottom,
The first inclined surface formed on each of the plurality of first protrusions and the second inclined surface formed on each of the plurality of second protrusions are in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the bottom portion. Has an extending shape,
The first direction is a direction from one outer side to the inner side in the longitudinal direction of the bottom,
The second direction is a direction from the other outside in the longitudinal direction of the bottom toward the inside.
The powder container according to claim 1 or 2. The plurality of first protrusions provided in the first region and the plurality of second protrusions provided in the second region pass through a central portion in the longitudinal direction of the bottom portion and extend in the longitudinal direction. It is provided to form a plane-symmetric shape with a plane perpendicular to the direction as a symmetrical reference plane.
The powder container according to claim 3. The plurality of first protrusions provided in the first region are arranged such that the number of installations per unit area of the bottom portion is greater on the one outer side in the longitudinal direction of the bottom portion than on the inner side. Formed,
The plurality of second protrusions provided in the second region are arranged such that the number of installations per unit area of the bottom is greater on the other outer side in the longitudinal direction of the bottom than on the inner side. Formed,
The powder container according to claim 3 or 4. The inner surface of the bottom further includes a flat region;
The flat region has a flat surface shape and is located between the first region and the second region in the longitudinal direction.
The powder container according to any one of claims 3 to 5. The plurality of first protrusions provided in the first region are configured so that the one outer side in the longitudinal direction of the bottom portion extends along the direction perpendicular to the bottom portion from the inner side. It is formed so that the density of the first slope defined in plan view is high,
The plurality of second protrusions provided in the second region are configured so that the other outer side in the longitudinal direction of the bottom portion extends along the direction perpendicular to the bottom portion from the inner side. It is formed so that the density of the second slope defined when viewed in plan is high.
The powder container according to any one of claims 3 to 6. The plurality of first protrusions provided in the first region are formed such that the one outer side in the longitudinal direction of the bottom part has a larger inclination angle with respect to the bottom part than the inner side. ,
The plurality of second protrusions provided in the second region are formed such that the other outer side in the longitudinal direction of the bottom part has a larger inclination angle with respect to the bottom part than the inner side. ,
The powder container according to any one of claims 3 to 7. The plurality of first protrusions provided in the first region are configured such that the one outer side in the longitudinal direction of the bottom portion is in the direction perpendicular to the first direction than the inner side. It is formed so that the length of one slope is long,
The plurality of second protrusions provided in the second region are configured so that the other outer side in the longitudinal direction of the bottom portion is perpendicular to the second direction than the inner side. 2 is formed so that the length of the slope is long,
The powder container according to any one of claims 3 to 8. The inner surface of the bottom is
A plurality of third protrusions, a third region adjacent to the first region in a direction perpendicular to the first direction;
A plurality of fourth protrusions, and a fourth region adjacent to the second region in a direction perpendicular to the second direction,
Each of the plurality of third protrusions has a third slope that moves the powder in the second direction by being vibrated by the excitation mechanism,
Each of the plurality of fourth protrusions has a fourth inclined surface that moves the powder in the first direction by being vibrated by the excitation mechanism.
The powder container according to claim 9. The plurality of third protrusions provided in the third region are arranged such that the number of installations per unit area of the bottom portion is smaller on the one outer side in the longitudinal direction of the bottom portion than on the inner side. Formed,
The plurality of fourth protrusions provided in the fourth region are arranged such that the number of installations per unit area of the bottom portion is smaller on the other outer side in the longitudinal direction of the bottom portion than on the inner side. Formed,
The powder container according to claim 10. The plurality of third protrusions provided in the third region are configured such that the one outer side in the longitudinal direction of the bottom portion is perpendicular to the second direction than the inner side. 3 The length of the slope is shortened,
The plurality of fourth protrusions provided in the fourth region are configured such that the other outer side in the longitudinal direction of the bottom portion is in the direction perpendicular to the first direction than the inner side. 4 The length of the slope is shortened,
The powder container according to claim 10 or 11. The powder container according to any one of claims 1 to 12,
An image carrier,
The container contains toner as the powder removed from the image carrier.
Image forming apparatus.

Images