JPH09274391A

JPH09274391A - Process cartridge and developing device

Info

Publication number: JPH09274391A
Application number: JP8108662A
Authority: JP
Inventors: Kazunori Kobayashi; 和典小林; Toru Oguma; 徹小熊; Kazufumi Watanabe; 一史渡辺; Atsushi Numagami; 敦沼上
Original assignee: Canon Inc
Current assignee: Canon Inc
Priority date: 1996-04-05
Filing date: 1996-04-05
Publication date: 1997-10-21
Anticipated expiration: 2016-04-05
Also published as: JP3387729B2

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a process cartridge and developing device to which a magnetic-substance seal member can be attached easily and which maintains a fixed gap between a developing sleeve and itself and, therefore, provides a secure seal. SOLUTION: The magnetic-substance seal member 8 is attached to a toner container 3 via a compressed elastic member 14, and is pushed out toward the developing sleeve 2 by means of the elastic force of the elastic member 14. At this time, the magnetic-substance seal member 8 is positioned by abutting on a blade holder 15, supporting a developing blade 6, and the abutment 3a of a toner container 3.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

【０００１】[0001]

【発明の属する技術分野】本発明は、記録媒体に画像を
形成する画像形成装置に着脱可能なプロセスカートリッ
ジ及び現像装置に関するものである。BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a process cartridge and a developing device which can be attached to and detached from an image forming apparatus for forming an image on a recording medium.

【０００２】[0002]

【従来の技術】電子写真技術等を利用したプリンタや複
写機等の画像形成装置は、一様に帯電させた像担持体に
選択的な露光をして潜像を形成し、この潜像を現像剤担
持体に付着したトナーで顕像化し、該トナー像を記録媒
体に転写して画像記録を行うものである。従って、この
ような装置にあっては、トナーが無くなる都度補給しな
ければならず、このトナーの補給作業が煩わしいばかり
か、汚れを伴うこともある。また、各部材のメンテナン
スは専門のサービスマンでなければ行うことができず、
ユーザには不便を伴うことが多かった。2. Description of the Related Art An image forming apparatus such as a printer or a copying machine utilizing electrophotographic technology forms a latent image by selectively exposing a uniformly charged image carrier to a latent image. The toner is visualized with the toner adhering to the developer carrying member, and the toner image is transferred to a recording medium to perform image recording. Therefore, in such an apparatus, the toner has to be replenished each time it is used up, and the toner replenishment work is not only troublesome, but it may be contaminated. Also, maintenance of each member can only be performed by a specialized service person,
Users were often inconvenient.

【０００３】そこで、上記像担持体、帯電手段、現像手
段、クリーニング手段等を一体構造にまとめてカートリ
ッジ化したり、現像手段をユニット化して現像装置とし
たものが考え出されている。これによれば、ユーザが上
記カートリッジや現像装置を装置本体に装填することに
よって、トナーの補給や寿命に達した像担持体等の部品
の交換を可能とし、メンテナンスを容易にすることがで
きる。In view of this, there has been proposed a developing device in which the image carrier, the charging means, the developing means, the cleaning means and the like are integrated into a cartridge or the developing means is unitized. According to this, when the user mounts the cartridge or the developing device in the main body of the apparatus, it becomes possible to replenish toner or replace parts such as the image bearing member that have reached the end of life, and facilitate maintenance.

【０００４】しかし、このようなプロセスカートリッジ
や現像装置においては、画像形成装置からの着脱の際、
あるいは運搬時等におけるトナー漏れを確実に防ぐこと
が必要であり、従来は、回転する現像剤担持体たる現像
スリーブの両端部に、フェルトや発泡ゴム等の弾性体の
シール部材を用いていた。However, in such a process cartridge or developing device, when the process cartridge or developing device is attached to or detached from the image forming apparatus,
Alternatively, it is necessary to reliably prevent toner leakage during transportation and the like, and conventionally, elastic seal members such as felt and foamed rubber have been used at both ends of a developing sleeve that is a rotating developer carrier.

【０００５】その代表的な例を図９及び図１０に示す。
なお、図９は従来のプロセスカートリッジにおける現像
装置要部の断面構成図、図１０は同カートリッジの現像
装置要部の長手方向の断面構成図である。Typical examples thereof are shown in FIGS. 9 and 10.
9 is a cross-sectional configuration diagram of a main part of the developing device in the conventional process cartridge, and FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional configuration diagram of the main part of the developing device in the cartridge in the longitudinal direction.

【０００６】図９及び図１０に示すように、現像スリー
ブ２はその内部に磁界発生手段たる磁石４を有し、現像
剤容器たるトナー容器３にスリーブ軸受け５を介して回
転可能に取り付けられている。従って、この現像スリー
ブ２に供給されたトナーは磁力により現像スリーブ２の
表面に付着し、現像剤規制部材たる現像ブレード６によ
り層厚が一定に規制された後、像担持体たる感光ドラム
１上の潜像を現像すべく、トナーを転移させる。As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the developing sleeve 2 has a magnet 4 as a magnetic field generating means therein, and is rotatably attached to a toner container 3 as a developer container through a sleeve bearing 5. There is. Therefore, the toner supplied to the developing sleeve 2 adheres to the surface of the developing sleeve 2 due to the magnetic force, and after the layer thickness is regulated to be constant by the developing blade 6 which is a developer regulating member, on the photosensitive drum 1 which is an image carrier. The toner is transferred to develop the latent image of.

【０００７】そして、上記現像スリーブ２の両端部に
は、図９及び図１０に示すように、弾性シール部材７
が、上記感光ドラム１と対向する側のトナー容器３に固
定されており、該弾性シール部材７の表面を上記現像ス
リーブ２の外周面に圧着させることによりトナーの流出
を防いでいる。At both ends of the developing sleeve 2, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, elastic seal members 7 are provided.
However, the toner is prevented from flowing out by being fixed to the toner container 3 on the side facing the photosensitive drum 1, and by pressing the surface of the elastic seal member 7 against the outer peripheral surface of the developing sleeve 2.

【０００８】しかしながら、このような構成のものでは
現像スリーブ２の外周面に圧接した弾性シール部材７に
よる負荷が大きく、上記現像スリーブ２を回転させるる
ためには大きなトルクが必要であった。さらに、現像ス
リーブ２と弾性シール部材７との間にトナーが侵入した
場合に、該トルクが変動したり、より高くなって画像に
悪影響を及ぼすことがあった。また、上記弾性シール部
材７が、回転する上記現像スリーブ２との接触により摩
耗、変形等し、シール性が悪化する等の問題もあった。However, in such a structure, the load of the elastic seal member 7 pressed against the outer peripheral surface of the developing sleeve 2 is large, and a large torque is required to rotate the developing sleeve 2. Further, when the toner enters between the developing sleeve 2 and the elastic seal member 7, the torque may fluctuate or become higher, which may adversely affect the image. There is also a problem that the elastic seal member 7 is worn or deformed due to contact with the rotating developing sleeve 2 and the sealing property is deteriorated.

【０００９】そこで、これらの問題を解決すべく、現像
スリーブの両端部に一定の間隙をもって磁性体のシール
部材を配置し、これによりトナーの流出を防止する方法
が提案されている。Therefore, in order to solve these problems, a method has been proposed in which a seal member made of a magnetic material is arranged at both ends of the developing sleeve with a constant gap to prevent the toner from flowing out.

【００１０】図１１に磁性体シール部材を用いた現像装
置要部の長手方向の断面構成図を示す。図１１におい
て、磁性体シール部材８は、現像スリーブ２の両端部に
その外周面と一定間隙ｇを隔て、感光ドラム１に対向す
る側のトナー容器３に固定されている。上記現像スリー
ブ２は磁石４を内包しており、上記磁性体シール部材８
と上記磁石４の磁極との間に集中磁界を形成し、上記間
隙ｇにトナーを介在させ、磁気ブラシを形成すること
で、トナーが現像領域外に流出するのを防止している。FIG. 11 is a longitudinal cross-sectional structural view of a main part of a developing device using a magnetic seal member. In FIG. 11, the magnetic seal member 8 is fixed to the toner container 3 on the side facing the photosensitive drum 1 at both ends of the developing sleeve 2 with a constant gap g from the outer peripheral surface thereof. The developing sleeve 2 contains a magnet 4, and the magnetic body seal member 8 is provided.
By forming a concentrated magnetic field between the magnetic pole of the magnet 4 and the magnetic pole of the magnet 4, and interposing toner in the gap g to form a magnetic brush, the toner is prevented from flowing out of the developing area.

【００１１】この技術的手段を用いることにより、現像
スリーブ２と磁性体シール部材８間を非接触でシールす
ることができ、現像スリーブ２の回転トルクを著しく小
さくすることができるので、駆動モータに小型で低価格
なものを用いることが可能となる。また、摩耗等がない
ので、上記磁性体シール部材８の使用は半永久的とな
り、リサイクルにも対応可能である。By using this technical means, the developing sleeve 2 and the magnetic seal member 8 can be sealed in a non-contact manner, and the rotational torque of the developing sleeve 2 can be remarkably reduced. It is possible to use a small and low-priced one. Further, since there is no wear or the like, the use of the magnetic seal member 8 is semi-permanent and can be recycled.

【００１２】[0012]

【発明が解決しようとする課題】しかしながら、上記従
来例では、磁性体シール部材８と現像スリーブ２との間
隙を一定に保つ必要があるため、磁性体シール部材８の
取り付けは位置精度を必要とし、その取り付けが困難と
なる場合があった。即ち、磁性体シール部材８の近傍に
は、現像スリーブ２、現像ブレード６及びブレードホル
ダー１５等があり、これらとの位置関係を考慮しなけれ
ばならなかった。However, in the above-mentioned conventional example, since it is necessary to keep the gap between the magnetic material sealing member 8 and the developing sleeve 2 constant, the mounting of the magnetic material sealing member 8 requires positional accuracy. , Its installation may be difficult. That is, the developing sleeve 2, the developing blade 6, the blade holder 15 and the like are located near the magnetic seal member 8, and the positional relationship with them must be taken into consideration.

【００１３】そこで、本発明の目的は、磁性体シール部
材を簡単に取り付けることができ、かつ、現像スリーブ
との間隙を一定に保って確実にシールすることができる
プロセスカートリッジ及び現像装置を提供することにあ
る。Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a process cartridge and a developing device in which a magnetic material sealing member can be easily attached and a certain gap can be maintained between the developing sleeve and the developing sleeve for reliable sealing. Especially.

【００１４】[0014]

【課題を解決するための手段】本出願に係る第１の発明
によれば、上記目的は、像担持体と、現像剤を収容する
現像剤容器と、該現像剤容器に上記像担持体と対向する
ように回転自在に支持され、内部に磁界発生手段を有し
て現像剤を担持搬送する円筒体状の現像剤担持体と、該
現像剤担持体の両端部にて該現像剤担持体の外周面に対
して所定間隙をもって該外周面の一部を上記現像剤容器
内部側から覆う磁性体シール部材とを備え、該磁性体シ
ール部材と上記現像剤担持体内の磁界発生手段との間に
磁界を形成し、該磁性体シール部材と上記現像剤担持体
の間隙部に磁力線に沿って現像剤の磁気ブラシを形成す
ることによって現像剤のシールを行うプロセスカートリ
ッジにおいて、上記磁性体シール部材は、圧縮された弾
性部材を介して上記現像剤容器に取り付けられており、
上記磁性体シール部材の上記像担持体と対向する側の端
面が、上記現像剤容器に形成した突き当て部に、あるい
は上記現像剤容器に取り付けた部材に、もしくは該部材
と上記突き当て部との双方に突き当たることによって位
置決めされることにより達成される。According to the first invention of the present application, the above object is to provide an image carrier, a developer container for containing a developer, and the image carrier in the developer container. A cylindrical developer carrier that is rotatably supported so as to face each other and has a magnetic field generating means inside to carry and convey the developer, and the developer carrier at both ends of the developer carrier. A magnetic body seal member that covers a part of the outer peripheral surface from the inside of the developer container with a predetermined gap from the outer peripheral surface of the developer container, and between the magnetic body seal member and the magnetic field generating means in the developer carrier. In the process cartridge, which seals the developer by forming a magnetic field on the magnetic material and forming a magnetic brush of the developer along the magnetic lines in the gap between the magnetic material seal member and the developer carrying member, Up through the compressed elastic member It is attached to the developer container,
An end surface of the magnetic material sealing member facing the image carrier is provided on an abutting portion formed on the developer container, on a member attached to the developer container, or on the member and the abutting portion. It is achieved by being positioned by hitting on both sides of.

【００１５】また、本出願に係る第２の発明によれば、
上記目的は、上記第１の発明において、現像剤容器に取
り付けた部材は、現像剤担持体に当接するように配設さ
れた現像剤規制部材を支持する支持部材であることによ
り達成される。According to the second invention of the present application,
The above-mentioned object is achieved in the above-mentioned first invention, in which the member attached to the developer container is a supporting member for supporting the developer regulating member arranged so as to contact the developer carrying member.

【００１６】さらに、本出願に係る第３の発明によれ
ば、上記目的は、上記第２の発明において、磁性体シー
ル部材は予め磁化されており、磁性体シール部材と現像
剤規制部材は、現像剤担持体の長手方向に、現像剤担持
体と磁性体シール部材間の間隙と同程度もしくはそれ以
下の間隙を有しており、磁性体シール部材が現像剤担持
体外周面を覆う領域の一部と、現像剤規制部材が現像剤
担持体に当接する領域とは、現像剤担持体の円周方向に
て重なっていることにより達成される。Further, according to the third invention of the present application, in the above-mentioned second invention, the magnetic seal member is magnetized in advance, and the magnetic seal member and the developer regulating member are the same. There is a gap in the longitudinal direction of the developer carrying member that is about the same as or less than the gap between the developer carrying member and the magnetic material sealing member, and the magnetic material sealing member covers the outer peripheral surface of the developer carrying member. It is achieved that a part of the area and the area where the developer regulating member comes into contact with the developer carrying body overlap each other in the circumferential direction of the developer carrying body.

【００１７】また、本出願に係る第４の発明によれば、
上記目的は、上記第２の発明または第３の発明におい
て、磁性体シール部材は、予め磁化されており、現像剤
規制部材を支持する支持部材に接触していることにより
達成される。さらに、本出願に係る第５の発明によれ
ば、上記目的は、像担持体と、現像剤を収容する現像剤
容器と、該現像剤容器に上記像担持体と対向するように
回転自在に支持され、内部に磁界発生手段を有して現像
剤を担持搬送する円筒体状の現像剤担持体と、該現像剤
担持体の両端部にて該現像剤担持体の外周面に対して所
定間隙をもって該外周面の一部を上記現像剤容器内部側
から覆う磁性体シール部材とを備え、該磁性体シール部
材と上記現像剤担持体内の磁界発生手段との間に磁界を
形成し、該磁性体シール部材と上記現像剤担持体の間隙
部に磁力線に沿って現像剤の磁気ブラシを形成すること
によって現像剤のシールを行うプロセスカートリッジに
おいて、上記磁性体シール部材は、上記現像剤担持体の
外周面を覆う内面に、あるいは該内面側に、突起を有し
ており、該突起が上記現像剤担持体の外周面に突き当た
ることによって位置決めされることにより達成される。According to the fourth aspect of the present invention,
The above object is achieved in the second invention or the third invention, in which the magnetic seal member is magnetized in advance and is in contact with a supporting member that supports the developer regulating member. Further, according to the fifth invention of the present application, the above object is to provide an image carrier, a developer container for containing a developer, and a rotatable developer container in the developer container so as to face the image carrier. A cylindrical developer carrying member that is supported and has a magnetic field generating means inside to carry and convey the developer, and a predetermined amount with respect to the outer peripheral surface of the developer carrying member at both ends of the developer carrying member. A magnetic material sealing member that covers a part of the outer peripheral surface from the inside of the developer container with a gap, and forms a magnetic field between the magnetic material sealing member and the magnetic field generating means in the developer carrying body; In a process cartridge for sealing a developer by forming a magnetic brush of the developer along a magnetic line of force in a gap between the magnetic seal member and the developer carrier, the magnetic seal member is the developer carrier. On the inner surface that covers the outer peripheral surface of On the side, it has a protrusion, is accomplished by being positioned by abutting against the outer peripheral surface of the projecting outs the developer carrying member.

【００１８】また、本出願に係る第６の発明によれば、
上記目的は、上記第５の発明において、磁性体シール部
材は予め磁化されており、現像剤担持体に当接するよう
に配設された現像剤規制部材を備え、磁性体シール部材
と現像剤規制部材は、現像剤担持体の長手方向に、現像
剤担持体と磁性体シール部材間の間隙と同程度もしくは
それ以下の間隙を有しており、磁性体シール部材が現像
剤担持体外周面を覆う領域の一部と、現像剤規制部材が
現像剤担持体に当接する領域とは、現像剤担持体の円周
方向にて重なっていることにより達成される。According to the sixth aspect of the present invention,
The above-mentioned object is, in the above-mentioned fifth invention, that the magnetic seal member is magnetized in advance, and is provided with a developer regulating member arranged so as to come into contact with the developer carrying member. The member has a gap in the longitudinal direction of the developer carrying member that is equal to or less than the gap between the developer carrying member and the magnetic material sealing member, and the magnetic material sealing member covers the outer peripheral surface of the developer carrying member. A part of the covered area and an area where the developer regulating member contacts the developer carrying member are achieved by overlapping in the circumferential direction of the developer carrying member.

【００１９】さらに、本出願に係る第７の発明によれ
ば、上記目的は、上記第５の発明または第６の発明にお
いて、磁性体シール部材は予め磁化されており、現像剤
担持体に当接するように配設された現像剤規制部材と、
該現像剤規制部材を支持する支持部材とを備え、磁性体
シール部材は現像剤規制部材を支持する支持部材に接触
していることにより達成される。Further, according to a seventh invention of the present application, in the above-mentioned fifth invention or sixth invention, the above-mentioned object is such that the magnetic material sealing member is magnetized in advance, and the magnetic material sealing member is applied to the developer carrying member. A developer regulating member arranged so as to be in contact with each other,
This is achieved by including a supporting member that supports the developer regulating member, and the magnetic material sealing member is in contact with the supporting member that supports the developer regulating member.

【００２０】また、本出願に係る第８の発明によれば、
上記目的は、現像剤を収容する現像剤容器と、該現像剤
容器に像担持体と対向自在及び回転自在に支持され、内
部に磁界発生手段を有して現像剤を担持搬送する円筒体
状の現像剤担持体と、該現像剤担持体の両端部にて該現
像剤担持体の外周面に対して所定間隙をもって該外周面
の一部を上記現像剤容器内部側から覆う磁性体シール部
材とを備え、該磁性体シール部材と上記現像剤担持体内
の磁界発生手段との間に磁界を形成し、該磁性体シール
部材と上記現像剤担持体の間隙部に磁力線に沿って現像
剤の磁気ブラシを形成することによって現像剤のシール
を行う現像装置において、上記磁性体シール部材は、圧
縮された弾性部材を介して上記現像剤容器に取り付けら
れており、上記磁性体シール部材の上記像担持体と対向
する側の端面が、上記現像剤容器に形成した突き当て部
に、あるいは上記現像剤容器に取り付けた部材に、もし
くは該部材と上記突き当て部との双方に突き当たること
によって位置決めされることにより達成される。According to the eighth aspect of the present invention,
The above-mentioned object is to provide a developer container containing a developer, and a cylindrical body which is supported by the developer container so as to be opposed to and rotatable with respect to an image carrier and has a magnetic field generating means therein to carry and convey the developer. And a magnetic material sealing member for covering a part of the outer peripheral surface from the inside of the developer container with a predetermined gap between the outer peripheral surface of the developer supporting body and the outer peripheral surface of the developer supporting body. A magnetic field is formed between the magnetic seal member and the magnetic field generating means in the developer carrier, and a magnetic field is generated in a gap between the magnetic seal member and the developer carrier along a magnetic line of force. In a developing device that seals a developer by forming a magnetic brush, the magnetic seal member is attached to the developer container via a compressed elastic member, and the image of the magnetic seal member is attached. The end surface on the side facing the carrier is The abutting portion is formed to have serial developer container, or is accomplished by being positioned by impinging on both the members attached to the developer container, or the member and the abutting portion.

【００２１】さらに、本出願に係る第９の発明によれ
ば、上記目的は、上記第８の発明において、現像剤容器
に取り付けた部材は、現像剤担持体に当接するように配
設された現像剤規制部材を支持する支持部材であること
により達成される。Further, according to a ninth invention of the present application, in the above-mentioned eighth invention, the member attached to the developer container is arranged so as to contact the developer carrying member. This is achieved by being a support member that supports the developer regulating member.

【００２２】また、本出願に係る第１０の発明によれ
ば、上記目的は、上記第９の発明において、磁性体シー
ル部材は予め磁化されており、磁性体シール部材と現像
剤規制部材は、現像剤担持体の長手方向に、現像剤担持
体と磁性体シール部材間の間隙と同程度もしくはそれ以
下の間隙を有しており、磁性体シール部材が現像剤担持
体外周面を覆う領域の一部と、現像剤規制部材が現像剤
担持体に当接する領域とは、現像剤担持体の円周方向に
て重なっていることにより達成される。According to a tenth invention of the present application, in the above-mentioned ninth invention, the magnetic seal member is magnetized in advance, and the magnetic seal member and the developer regulating member are: There is a gap in the longitudinal direction of the developer carrying member that is about the same as or less than the gap between the developer carrying member and the magnetic material sealing member, and the magnetic material sealing member covers the outer peripheral surface of the developer carrying member. It is achieved that a part of the area and the area where the developer regulating member comes into contact with the developer carrying body overlap each other in the circumferential direction of the developer carrying body.

【００２３】また、本出願に係る第１１の発明によれ
ば、上記目的は、上記第９の発明または第１０の発明に
おいて、磁性体シール部材は予め磁化されており、磁性
体シール部材は現像剤規制部材を支持する支持部材に接
触していることにより達成される。Further, according to an eleventh invention of the present application, in the above-mentioned ninth invention or tenth invention, the magnetic seal member is magnetized in advance and the magnetic seal member is developed. This is achieved by being in contact with a support member that supports the agent regulation member.

【００２４】さらに、本出願に係る第１２の発明によれ
ば、上記目的は、現像剤を収容する現像剤容器と、該現
像剤容器に像担持体と対向自在及び回転自在に支持さ
れ、内部に磁界発生手段を有して現像剤を担持搬送する
円筒体状の現像剤担持体と、該現像剤担持体の両端部に
て該現像剤担持体の外周面に対して所定間隙をもって該
外周面の一部を上記現像剤容器内部側から覆う磁性体シ
ール部材とを備え、該磁性体シール部材と上記現像剤担
持体内の磁界発生手段との間に磁界を形成し、該磁性体
シール部材と上記現像剤担持体の間隙部に磁力線に沿っ
て現像剤の磁気ブラシを形成することによって現像剤の
シールを行う現像装置において、上記磁性体シール部材
は、上記現像剤担持体の外周面を覆う内面に、あるいは
該内面側に、突起を有しており、該突起が上記現像剤担
持体の外周面に突き当たることによって位置決めされる
ことにより達成される。Further, according to the twelfth invention of the present application, the above object is to provide a developer container for accommodating the developer, the developer container being supported rotatably and rotatably with respect to the image carrier. A cylindrical developer carrying member for carrying and carrying the developer by means of a magnetic field generating means, and the outer circumference of the developer carrying member at both ends with a predetermined gap from the outer circumferential surface of the developer carrying member. A magnetic material sealing member that covers a part of the surface from the inside of the developer container, forms a magnetic field between the magnetic material sealing member and the magnetic field generating means in the developer carrying body, and the magnetic material sealing member In the developing device that seals the developer by forming a magnetic brush of the developer along the magnetic lines of force in the gap between the developer carrier and the developer carrier, the magnetic material seal member is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the developer carrier. Protrusions on the inner surface to cover or on the inner surface side And which it is accomplished by being positioned by abutting against the outer peripheral surface of the projecting outs the developer carrying member.

【００２５】また、本出願に係る第１３の発明によれ
ば、上記目的は、上記第１２の発明において、磁性体シ
ール部材は予め磁化されており、現像剤担持体に当接す
るように配設された現像剤規制部材を備え、磁性体シー
ル部材と現像剤規制部材は、現像剤担持体の長手方向
に、現像剤担持体と磁性体シール部材間の間隙と同程度
もしくはそれ以下の間隙を有しており、磁性体シール部
材が現像剤担持体外周面を覆う領域の一部と、現像剤規
制部材が現像剤担持体に当接する領域とは、現像剤担持
体の円周方向にて重なっていることにより達成される。According to a thirteenth invention of the present application, the above object is the twelfth invention, wherein the magnetic seal member is magnetized in advance and is disposed so as to contact the developer carrying member. The magnetic material sealing member and the developer regulating member have a gap in the longitudinal direction of the developer carrying member, which is about the same as or less than the gap between the developer carrying member and the magnetic seal member. A part of the area where the magnetic seal member covers the outer peripheral surface of the developer carrier and the area where the developer regulating member abuts the developer carrier have a circumferential direction of the developer carrier. Achieved by overlapping.

【００２６】さらに、本出願に係る第１４の発明によれ
ば、上記目的は、上記第１２の発明または第１３の発明
において、磁性体シール部材は予め磁化されており、現
像剤担持体に当接するように配設された現像剤規制部材
と、該現像剤規制部材を支持する支持部材とを備え、磁
性体シール部材は現像剤規制部材を支持する支持部材に
接触していることにより達成される。Further, according to a fourteenth invention of the present application, the above object is the magnetic material sealing member according to the twelfth invention or the thirteenth invention, wherein the magnetic material sealing member is magnetized in advance, and the magnetic material sealing member is applied to the developer carrier. This is achieved by including a developer regulating member arranged so as to be in contact with each other, and a supporting member supporting the developer regulating member, and the magnetic seal member is in contact with the supporting member supporting the developer regulating member. It

【００２７】つまり、本出願に係る第１の発明において
は、プロセスカートリッジにおける磁性体シール部材
が、圧縮された弾性部材を介して現像剤容器に取り付け
られており、現像剤容器に取り付けた部材、あるいは突
き当て部、もしくはその双方に突き当たって位置決めさ
れるので、磁性体シール部材は、弾性部材の厚さ精度、
現像剤容器の弾性部材の貼り付け部の形状精度、及び現
像剤容器と弾性部材、あるいは弾性部材と磁性体シール
部材とを結合する結合部材（例えば、両面テープ等）の
厚さ精度に依らずに、高精度に位置決めされる。That is, according to the first aspect of the present invention, the magnetic seal member of the process cartridge is attached to the developer container via the compressed elastic member, and the member attached to the developer container, Alternatively, since the magnetic seal member is positioned by abutting against the abutting portion or both of them, the magnetic seal member has a thickness accuracy of the elastic member,
Regardless of the accuracy of the shape of the sticking portion of the elastic member of the developer container and the thickness accuracy of the joining member (for example, double-sided tape) that joins the developer container and the elastic member or the elastic member and the magnetic seal member. It is positioned with high precision.

【００２８】また、本出願に係る第２の発明において
は、上記第１の発明のプロセスカートリッジにおける磁
性体シール部材が、圧縮された弾性部材を介して現像剤
容器に取り付けられており、現像剤規制部材の支持部
材、あるいは現像剤容器の突き当て部、もしくはその双
方に突き当たって位置決めされるので、磁性体シール部
材は、弾性部材の厚さ精度、現像剤容器の弾性部材の貼
り付け部の形状精度、及び現像剤容器と弾性部材、ある
いは弾性部材と磁性体シール部材とを結合する結合部材
（例えば、両面テープ等）の厚さ精度に依らずに、高精
度に位置決めされる。In the second invention of the present application, the magnetic seal member in the process cartridge of the first invention is attached to the developer container via a compressed elastic member, Since the magnetic material seal member is positioned by abutting against the supporting member of the regulating member, the abutting portion of the developer container, or both, the magnetic seal member has a thickness accuracy of the elastic member and a sticking portion of the elastic member of the developer container. The positioning is performed with high accuracy regardless of the shape accuracy and the thickness accuracy of the coupling member (for example, double-sided tape or the like) that couples the developer container and the elastic member or the elastic member and the magnetic material sealing member.

【００２９】さらに、本出願に係る第３の発明において
は、上記第２の発明におけるプロセスカートリッジの現
像剤担持体の長手方向にて、現像剤規制部材と予め磁化
した磁性体シール部材の間に、現像剤担持体と磁性体シ
ール部材の間隙の大きさと同等もしはそれ以下の間隙を
設けたので、現像剤規制部材の動作を妨げることがない
と共に、現像剤担持体の円周方向にて、現像剤規制部材
と磁性体シール部材の現像剤担持体に対向または当接す
る領域が重なるので、この間隙を現像剤が通って漏れ出
ることがなく、上記第２の発明と同様に高精度な位置決
めが行われる。Further, in the third invention of the present application, between the developer regulating member and the pre-magnetized magnetic material sealing member in the longitudinal direction of the developer carrying member of the process cartridge in the second invention. Since a gap equal to or smaller than the gap between the developer bearing member and the magnetic seal member is provided, it does not hinder the operation of the developer regulating member, and the circumferential direction of the developer bearing member is prevented. Since the developer regulating member and the region of the magnetic seal member that faces or abuts the developer carrying member overlap, the developer does not leak through this gap, and the high precision is achieved as in the second invention. Positioning is performed.

【００３０】また、本出願に係る第４の発明において
は、上記第２の発明または第３の発明のプロセスカート
リッジにおける磁性体シール部材と現像剤規制部材の支
持部材とが接するので、磁性体シール部材と支持部材間
で連続した磁気シールが行われ、現像剤の漏れをより一
層確実に防ぐと共に、上記第２の発明と同様に高精度な
位置決めが行われ、上記第３の発明と同様に現像剤規制
部材の動作が妨げられることがない。Further, in the fourth invention of the present application, since the magnetic seal member and the support member of the developer regulating member in the process cartridge of the second invention or the third invention are in contact with each other, the magnetic seal A continuous magnetic seal is provided between the member and the supporting member to prevent the developer from leaking more reliably, and the positioning is performed with high precision as in the second aspect of the invention. The operation of the developer regulating member is not hindered.

【００３１】さらに、本出願に係る第５の発明において
は、プロセスカートリッジにおける磁性体シール部材が
圧縮された弾性部材を介して現像剤容器に結合されてお
り、さらに磁性体シール部材は突起を有しており、この
突起が現像剤担持体に突き当たったところで位置決めさ
れているので、現像剤担持体と磁性体シール部材の間隙
を自動的にかつ高精度で一定にする。Further, in the fifth invention according to the present application, the magnetic seal member in the process cartridge is coupled to the developer container via the compressed elastic member, and the magnetic seal member has a protrusion. Since this projection is positioned where it abuts on the developer carrying member, the gap between the developer carrying member and the magnetic material sealing member is automatically and accurately made constant.

【００３２】また、本出願に係る第６の発明において
は、上記第５の発明のプロセスカートリッジにおける現
像剤担持体の長手方向にて、現像剤規制部材と予め磁化
した磁性体シール部材の間に、現像剤担持体と磁性体シ
ール部材の間隙の大きさと同等もしはそれ以下の間隙を
設けたので、現像剤規制部材の動作を妨げることがな
く、さらに現像剤担持体の円周方向にて、現像剤規制部
材と磁性体シール部材の現像剤担持体に対向または当接
する領域が重なるので、この間隙を現像剤が通って漏れ
出ることがなく、第５の発明と同様に磁性体シール部材
の高精度な位置決めが行われる。Further, in the sixth invention according to the present application, in the longitudinal direction of the developer carrying member in the process cartridge of the fifth invention, between the developer regulating member and the pre-magnetized magnetic material sealing member. Since a gap equal to or smaller than the gap between the developer carrying member and the magnetic seal member is provided, the operation of the developer regulating member is not hindered, and further in the circumferential direction of the developer carrying member. Since the developer regulating member and the region of the magnetic seal member that faces or abuts the developer carrying member overlap, the developer does not leak through this gap, and the magnetic seal member is the same as the fifth invention. The high-precision positioning of is performed.

【００３３】さらに、本出願に係る第７の発明において
は、上記第５の発明または第６の発明のプロセスカート
リッジにおける磁性体シール部材と現像剤規制部材の支
持部材とが接するので、磁性体シール部材と支持部材間
で連続した磁気シールが行われ、現像剤の漏れをより一
層確実に防ぐと共に、第５の発明と同様に磁性体シール
部材の高精度な位置決めが行われ、また、第６の発明と
同様に現像剤規制部材の動作が妨げられることがない。Further, in the seventh invention of the present application, since the magnetic seal member and the support member of the developer regulating member in the process cartridge of the fifth invention or the sixth invention are in contact with each other, the magnetic seal The magnetic seal is continuously performed between the member and the support member to prevent the developer from leaking more reliably, and the magnetic seal member is positioned with high precision as in the fifth aspect of the invention. Similarly to the invention described above, the operation of the developer regulating member is not hindered.

【００３４】また、本出願に係る第８の発明において
は、現像装置における磁性体シール部材が、圧縮された
弾性部材を介して現像剤容器に取り付けられており、現
像剤容器に取り付けた部材、あるいは突き当て部、もし
くはその双方に突き当たって位置決めされるので、磁性
体シール部材は、弾性部材の厚さ精度、現像剤容器の弾
性部材の貼り付け部の形状精度、及び現像剤容器と弾性
部材、あるいは弾性部材と磁性体シール部材とを結合す
る結合部材（例えば、両面テープ等）の厚さ精度に依ら
ずに、高精度に位置決めされる。In the eighth invention according to the present application, the magnetic seal member in the developing device is attached to the developer container via the compressed elastic member, and the member attached to the developer container, Alternatively, since the magnetic seal member is positioned by abutting against the abutting portion or both of them, the magnetic material seal member has a thickness accuracy of the elastic member, a shape accuracy of the attaching portion of the elastic member of the developer container, and the developer container and the elastic member. Alternatively, the positioning can be performed with high accuracy regardless of the thickness accuracy of the connecting member (for example, double-sided tape or the like) that connects the elastic member and the magnetic seal member.

【００３５】さらに、本出願に係る第９の発明において
は、上記第８の発明の現像装置における磁性体シール部
材が、圧縮された弾性部材を介して現像剤容器に取り付
けられており、現像剤規制部材の支持部材、あるいは現
像剤容器の突き当て部、もしくはその双方に突き当たっ
て位置決めされるので、磁性体シール部材は、弾性部材
の厚さ精度、現像剤容器の弾性部材の貼り付け部の形状
精度、及び現像剤容器と弾性部材、あるいは弾性部材と
磁性体シール部材とを結合する結合部材（例えば、両面
テープ等）の厚さ精度に依らずに、高精度に位置決めさ
れる。Further, in the ninth invention of the present application, the magnetic material sealing member in the developing device of the eighth invention is attached to the developer container via a compressed elastic member, Since the magnetic material seal member is positioned by abutting against the supporting member of the regulating member, the abutting portion of the developer container, or both, the magnetic seal member has a thickness accuracy of the elastic member and a sticking portion of the elastic member of the developer container. The positioning is performed with high accuracy regardless of the shape accuracy and the thickness accuracy of the coupling member (for example, double-sided tape or the like) that couples the developer container and the elastic member or the elastic member and the magnetic material sealing member.

【００３６】また、本出願に係る第１０の発明において
は、上記第９の発明の現像装置における現像剤担持体の
長手方向にて、現像剤規制部材と予め磁化した磁性体シ
ール部材の間に、現像剤担持体と磁性体シール部材の間
隙の大きさと同等もしはそれ以下の間隙を設けたので、
現像剤規制部材の動作を妨げることがないと共に、現像
剤担持体の円周方向にて、現像剤規制部材と磁性体シー
ル部材の現像剤担持体に対向または当接する領域が重な
るので、この間隙を現像剤が通って漏れ出ることがな
く、上記第９の発明と同様に高精度な位置決めが行われ
る。In the tenth invention of the present application, between the developer regulating member and the pre-magnetized magnetic material sealing member in the longitudinal direction of the developer carrier in the developing device of the ninth invention. Since a gap equal to or smaller than the gap between the developer carrying member and the magnetic seal member is provided,
Since the operation of the developer regulating member is not hindered and the developer regulating member and the area of the magnetic seal member facing or abutting the developer bearing body overlap in the circumferential direction of the developer bearing body, this gap The developer does not pass through and leaks, and high-precision positioning is performed as in the ninth aspect.

【００３７】さらに、本出願に係る第１１の発明におい
ては、上記第９の発明または第１０の発明の現像装置に
おける磁性体シール部材と現像剤規制部材の支持部材と
が接するので、磁性体シール部材と支持部材間で連続し
た磁気シールが行われ、現像剤の漏れをより一層確実に
防ぐと共に、上記第９の発明と同様に高精度な位置決め
が行われ、上記第１０の発明と同様に現像剤規制部材の
動作が妨げられることがない。Further, in the eleventh invention of the present application, since the magnetic seal member and the support member for the developer regulating member in the developing device of the ninth or tenth invention are in contact with each other, the magnetic seal A continuous magnetic seal is provided between the member and the support member to prevent the developer from leaking more reliably, and the positioning is performed with high precision as in the ninth aspect of the invention. The operation of the developer regulating member is not hindered.

【００３８】さらに、本出願に係る第１２の発明におい
ては、現像装置における磁性体シール部材が圧縮された
弾性部材を介して現像剤容器に結合されており、さらに
磁性体シール部材は突起を有しており、この突起が現像
剤担持体に突き当たったところで位置決めされているの
で、現像剤担持体と磁性体シール部材の間隙を自動的に
かつ高精度で一定にする。Further, in the twelfth invention of the present application, the magnetic seal member in the developing device is coupled to the developer container through the compressed elastic member, and the magnetic seal member has a protrusion. Since this projection is positioned where it abuts on the developer carrying member, the gap between the developer carrying member and the magnetic material sealing member is automatically and accurately made constant.

【００３９】また、本出願に係る第１３の発明において
は、上記第１２の発明の現像装置における現像剤担持体
の長手方向にて、現像剤規制部材と予め磁化した磁性体
シール部材の間に、現像剤担持体と磁性体シール部材の
間隙の大きさと同等もしはそれ以下の間隙を設けたの
で、現像剤規制部材の動作を妨げることがなく、さらに
現像剤担持体の円周方向にて、現像剤規制部材と磁性体
シール部材の現像剤担持体に対向または当接する領域が
重なるので、この間隙を現像剤が通って漏れ出ることが
なく、第１２の発明と同様に磁性体シール部材の高精度
な位置決めが行われる。Further, in the thirteenth invention of the present application, between the developer regulating member and the pre-magnetized magnetic material sealing member in the longitudinal direction of the developer carrier in the developing device of the twelfth invention. Since a gap equal to or smaller than the gap between the developer carrying member and the magnetic seal member is provided, the operation of the developer regulating member is not hindered, and further in the circumferential direction of the developer carrying member. Since the developer regulating member and the region of the magnetic seal member that faces or abuts the developer carrying member overlap, the developer does not leak through this gap, and the magnetic seal member is the same as the twelfth invention. The high-precision positioning of is performed.

【００４０】さらに、本出願に係る第１４の発明におい
ては、上記第１２の発明または第１３の発明における磁
性体シール部材と現像剤規制部材の支持部材とが接する
ので、磁性体シール部材と支持部材間で連続した磁気シ
ールが行われ、現像剤の漏れをより一層確実に防ぐと共
に、第１２の発明と同様に磁性体シール部材の高精度な
位置決めが行われ、また、第１３の発明と同様に現像剤
規制部材の動作が妨げられることがない。Further, in the fourteenth invention of the present application, since the magnetic seal member according to the twelfth invention or the thirteenth invention is in contact with the support member of the developer regulating member, the magnetic seal member and the support are supported. Continuous magnetic sealing is performed between the members to prevent the developer from leaking more reliably, and the magnetic seal member is positioned with high precision as in the twelfth invention. Similarly, the operation of the developer regulating member is not hindered.

【００４１】[0041]

【発明の実施の形態】以下、本発明の実施形態を添付図
面に基づいて説明する。Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

【００４２】（第１の実施形態）まず、本発明の第１の
実施形態を図１ないし図３に基づいて説明する。図１は
本発明の第１の実施形態における画像形成装置に着脱自
在なプロセスカートリッジの概略構成を示す図である。(First Embodiment) First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a process cartridge detachably mountable to an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

【００４３】プロセスカートリッジとは、像担持体と、
少なくとも一つのプロセス手段を備えたものである。こ
こでプロセス手段としては、例えば像担持体の表面を帯
電させる帯電手段、像担持体にトナー像を形成する現像
手段、像担持体表面に残留したトナーを除去すためのク
リーニング手段等があり、特に本発明では現像手段を少
なくとも有するプロセスカートリッジである。The process cartridge includes an image carrier and
It is equipped with at least one process means. Examples of the process means include charging means for charging the surface of the image carrier, developing means for forming a toner image on the image carrier, cleaning means for removing the toner remaining on the surface of the image carrier, and the like. Particularly in the present invention, the process cartridge has at least a developing means.

【００４４】本実施形態のプロセスカートリッジは、図
１に示すように、像担持体である電子写真感光ドラム１
の周囲に、帯電手段９、トナー（現像剤）を収納した現
像手段１０、及びクリーニング手段１１を配置し、枠体
１２からなるハウジングで覆って一体的にカートリッジ
化し、画像形成装置本体に対して着脱自在に構成してい
る。As shown in FIG. 1, the process cartridge of the present embodiment has an electrophotographic photosensitive drum 1 which is an image carrier.
A charging means 9, a developing means 10 accommodating toner (developer), and a cleaning means 11 are arranged around the periphery of the cartridge, and the cartridge is integrally formed into a cartridge by being covered with a housing including a frame body 12. It is removable.

【００４５】図２は本発明の第１の実施形態におけるプ
ロセスカートリッジにおける現像容器要部の断面構成
図、図３は図２のＡ−Ａ’断面構成図である。これらの
図に示すように、本実施形態の現像手段１０には、磁性
体シール部材８が、現像剤担持体たる現像スリーブ２の
両端部にその外周面と一定間隙ｇを隔て、圧縮された弾
性部材１４を介して現像剤容器たるトナー容器３に取り
付けられている。上記磁性体シール部材８と上記現像ス
リーブ２に内包される磁界発生手段たる磁石４の磁極と
の間には、集中磁界が形成され、上記間隙ｇにトナーを
介在させ磁気ブラシを形成することで、トナーが現像領
域外に流出するのを防止している。FIG. 2 is a sectional structural view of an essential part of the developing container in the process cartridge according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a sectional structural view taken along the line AA 'in FIG. As shown in these figures, in the developing means 10 of the present embodiment, the magnetic seal member 8 is compressed at both ends of the developing sleeve 2 as a developer carrying member with a constant gap g from the outer peripheral surface thereof. It is attached to the toner container 3 as a developer container via the elastic member 14. A concentrated magnetic field is formed between the magnetic seal member 8 and the magnetic pole of the magnet 4 which is the magnetic field generating means contained in the developing sleeve 2, and a toner is interposed in the gap g to form a magnetic brush. The toner is prevented from flowing out of the developing area.

【００４６】ここで、磁性体シール部材８は、圧縮され
た弾性部材１４を介してトナー容器３に結合されている
ため、弾性部材１４の弾性力によって現像スリーブ２方
向に押し出される。このとき磁性体シール部材８は、現
像剤規制部材たる現像ブレード６を支持する支持部材と
してのブレードホルダー１５と、トナー容器３の突き当
て部３ａと突き当たって位置決めされる。Since the magnetic seal member 8 is connected to the toner container 3 via the compressed elastic member 14, the elastic force of the elastic member 14 pushes the magnetic seal member 8 toward the developing sleeve 2. At this time, the magnetic seal member 8 is positioned by abutting the blade holder 15 as a supporting member for supporting the developing blade 6 which is a developer regulating member and the abutting portion 3a of the toner container 3.

【００４７】従って、その位置精度は、弾性部材１４の
厚さ精度、トナー容器３の弾性部材１４の貼り付け部３
ｂの形状精度、及びトナー容器３と弾性部材１４、さら
には弾性部材１４の磁性体シール部材８とを結合する結
合部材１６（例えば、両面テープ等）の厚さ精度に依ら
ない。特に、トナー容器３に直接、磁性体シール部材８
を結合するときには、磁性体シール部材８の結合面は円
弧形状となる場合が多く、その形状精度を高めることが
難しいために、本発明は効果的である。Therefore, the positional accuracy is the thickness accuracy of the elastic member 14 and the attaching portion 3 of the elastic member 14 of the toner container 3.
It does not depend on the shape accuracy of b, and the thickness accuracy of the connecting member 16 (for example, double-sided tape or the like) that connects the toner container 3 and the elastic member 14, and further the magnetic body sealing member 8 of the elastic member 14. In particular, the magnetic material sealing member 8 is directly attached to the toner container 3.
The present invention is effective because the coupling surface of the magnetic material seal member 8 often has an arc shape when it is coupled, and it is difficult to improve the shape accuracy.

【００４８】また、本実施形態においては、突き当て部
３ａとブレードホルダー１５に磁性体シール部材８を突
き当てるように構成したが、ブレードホルダー１５が取
り付けられた側にも突き当て部を設けて、磁性体シール
部材８を突き当てるようにしてもよい。さらに、突き当
て部３ａ側にブレードホルダー１５に相当する部材を取
り付けて磁性体シール部材８を突き当てるようにしても
良い。In this embodiment, the magnetic seal member 8 is abutted against the abutting portion 3a and the blade holder 15, but the abutting portion is also provided on the side where the blade holder 15 is attached. Alternatively, the magnetic seal member 8 may be butted against. Further, a member corresponding to the blade holder 15 may be attached to the abutting portion 3a side to abut the magnetic seal member 8.

【００４９】（第２の実施形態）次に、本発明の第２の
実施形態を図４に基づいて説明する。なお、第１の実施
形態との共通箇所には同一符号を付す。(Second Embodiment) Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. The same parts as those in the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals.

【００５０】本実施形態においても、第１の実施形態と
同様に、現像手段１０には、磁性体シール部材８が、現
像スリーブ２の両端部にその外周面と一定間隙ｇを隔
て、圧縮された弾性部材１４を介して、トナー容器３に
固定されている。上記磁性体シール部材８と上記現像ス
リーブ２に内包される磁石４の磁極との間には、集中磁
界が形成され、上記間隙ｇにトナーを介在させ、磁気ブ
ラシを形成することで、トナーが現像領域外に流出する
を防止している。Also in this embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the magnetic seal member 8 is compressed in the developing means 10 at both ends of the developing sleeve 2 with a constant gap g from the outer peripheral surface thereof. It is fixed to the toner container 3 via the elastic member 14. A concentrated magnetic field is formed between the magnetic seal member 8 and the magnetic pole of the magnet 4 included in the developing sleeve 2. By interposing toner in the gap g and forming a magnetic brush, the toner is removed. It prevents it from flowing out of the development area.

【００５１】磁性体シール部材８は第１の実施形態と同
様に、圧縮された弾性部材１４を介してトナー容器３に
結合されているため、弾性部材１４の弾性力によって現
像スリーブ２方向に押し出される。Since the magnetic seal member 8 is coupled to the toner container 3 through the compressed elastic member 14 as in the first embodiment, the elastic force of the elastic member 14 pushes it toward the developing sleeve 2. Be done.

【００５２】そして、本実施形態における磁性体シール
部材８は突起８ａを有しているため、押し出されたとき
に、この突起８ａが現像スリーブ２に突き当たったとこ
ろで位置決めされる。Since the magnetic seal member 8 in this embodiment has the protrusion 8a, it is positioned when the protrusion 8a abuts the developing sleeve 2 when it is pushed out.

【００５３】このため、現像スリーブ２と磁性体シール
部材８の間隙を自動的にかつ高精度で一定にすることが
できる。Therefore, the gap between the developing sleeve 2 and the magnetic material seal member 8 can be automatically and accurately made constant.

【００５４】なお、本実施形態における磁性体シール部
材８の材質としては、第１の実施形態と同様のものを用
いることができる。As the material of the magnetic seal member 8 in this embodiment, the same material as in the first embodiment can be used.

【００５５】（第３の実施形態）次に、本発明の第３の
実施形態を図５及び図６に基づいて説明する。なお、第
１の実施形態との共通箇所には同一符号を付す。(Third Embodiment) Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. The same parts as those in the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals.

【００５６】本実施形態においても、第１及び第２の実
施形態と同様に、現像手段１０には、磁性体シール部材
８が、現像スリーブ２の両端部にその外周面と一定間隙
ｇを隔て、感光ドラム１に対向する側のトナー容器３に
固定されている。ここで、磁性体シール部材８は磁性を
有しており、該磁性体シール部材８と現像スリーブ２に
内包される磁石４の磁極との間、及び磁性を有する磁性
体シール部材の周囲には集中磁界が形成され、上記間隙
ｇのトナーを介在させ磁気ブラシを形成することで、ト
ナーが現像領域外に流出するを防止している。Also in this embodiment, as in the first and second embodiments, the magnetic seal member 8 is provided in the developing means 10 at both ends of the developing sleeve 2 with a constant gap g from the outer peripheral surface thereof. , Is fixed to the toner container 3 on the side facing the photosensitive drum 1. Here, the magnetic material seal member 8 has magnetism, and the magnetic material seal member 8 and the magnetic pole of the magnet 4 contained in the developing sleeve 2 and the periphery of the magnetic material seal member having magnetism are provided. A concentrated magnetic field is formed and a toner is prevented from flowing out of the development area by forming a magnetic brush with the toner in the gap g interposed.

【００５７】この間隙ｇの大きさは、この間隙をトナー
が通って漏れることなく、かつ現像スリーブの回転運動
を妨げないように、磁性体シール部材８の磁力と、トナ
ーの静電気的性質及び質量等から最適に決められる。The size of the gap g depends on the magnetic force of the magnetic seal member 8 and the electrostatic property and mass of the toner so that the toner does not leak through the gap and does not hinder the rotational movement of the developing sleeve. Etc. can be optimally decided.

【００５８】そして、本実施形態においては、図６に示
すように、現像スリーブ２の長手方向において、現像ブ
レード６と磁性体シール部材８の間に、現像スリーブ２
と磁性体シール部材８間の間隙ｇの大きさと同等もしく
はそれ以下の間隙ｈを設ける。このことにより、現像ス
リーブ２と磁性体シール部材８間に集中磁界を形成し、
そこにトナーを介在させ磁気ブラシを形成することでト
ナーが現像領域外に流出するを防止できる。また、この
とき現像ブレード６と磁性体シール部材８は非接触なた
め、現像ブレード６の動きを妨げることはない。In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, the developing sleeve 2 is provided between the developing blade 6 and the magnetic seal member 8 in the longitudinal direction of the developing sleeve 2.
A gap h that is equal to or smaller than the gap g between the magnetic seal member 8 and the magnetic seal member 8 is provided. As a result, a concentrated magnetic field is formed between the developing sleeve 2 and the magnetic seal member 8,
By forming a magnetic brush with toner interposed there, it is possible to prevent the toner from flowing out of the developing area. Further, at this time, since the developing blade 6 and the magnetic seal member 8 are not in contact with each other, the movement of the developing blade 6 is not hindered.

【００５９】さらに、現像スリーブ２の円周方向におい
て、現像ブレード６と磁性体シール部材８がｊに示すよ
うに重なる構成とすることで、破線に示す磁性を有する
上記磁性体シール部材８の磁界が現像ブレード６にかか
り、現像ブレード６の動きを妨げることなく現像ブレー
ド６と磁性体シール部材８の間をシールすることができ
る。Further, in the circumferential direction of the developing sleeve 2, the developing blade 6 and the magnetic material sealing member 8 are overlapped with each other as indicated by j, so that the magnetic field of the magnetic material sealing member 8 having the magnetism shown by the broken line. Is applied to the developing blade 6, and the gap between the developing blade 6 and the magnetic seal member 8 can be sealed without hindering the movement of the developing blade 6.

【００６０】なお、このような構成は、上述した第１の
実施形態あるいは第２の実施形態においても採用するこ
とができ、第１の実施形態あるいは第２の実施形態にお
ける効果に加えて、現像ブレード６の動きを妨げないと
いう効果を奏することができる。Incidentally, such a structure can be adopted also in the above-described first embodiment or second embodiment, and in addition to the effect in the first embodiment or the second embodiment, development is performed. The effect that the movement of the blade 6 is not hindered can be achieved.

【００６１】（第４の実施形態）次に、本発明の第４の
実施形態を図７及び図８に基づいて説明する。なお、第
１の実施形態との共通箇所には同一符号を付す。(Fourth Embodiment) Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8. The same parts as those in the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals.

【００６２】本実施形態においても、第１ないし第３の
実施形態と同様に、現像手段１０には、磁性体シール部
材８が、現像スリーブ２の両端部にその外周面と一定間
隙ｇを隔て、感光ドラム１に対向する側のトナー容器３
に固定されている。上記磁性体シール部材８と上記現像
スリーブ２に内包される磁石４の磁極との間には、集中
磁界が形成され、上記間隙ｇにトナーを介在させ磁気ブ
ラシを形成することで、トナーが現像領域外に流出する
のを防止している。Also in the present embodiment, as in the first to third embodiments, the magnetic seal member 8 is provided in the developing means 10 at both ends of the developing sleeve 2 with a constant gap g from the outer peripheral surface thereof. , Toner container 3 on the side facing the photosensitive drum 1
It is fixed to. A concentrated magnetic field is formed between the magnetic seal member 8 and the magnetic pole of the magnet 4 included in the developing sleeve 2, and the toner is developed by forming a magnetic brush with the toner interposed in the gap g. It prevents it from flowing out of the area.

【００６３】本実施形態では、図７に示すように、磁性
体シール部材８と現像ブレード６を保持するブレードホ
ルダー１５とが接する構成とする。このとき、ブレード
ホルダー１５は鉄等の磁性体であって、磁性体シール部
材８と接する部分は磁化される。このため、磁気シール
効果が、磁性体シール部材８とブレードホルダー１５間
で連続して、トナーの漏れに対して効果がある。In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the magnetic seal member 8 and the blade holder 15 holding the developing blade 6 are in contact with each other. At this time, the blade holder 15 is made of a magnetic material such as iron, and the portion in contact with the magnetic material sealing member 8 is magnetized. Therefore, the magnetic sealing effect is continuous between the magnetic sealing member 8 and the blade holder 15, and is effective against toner leakage.

【００６４】従って、このような構成は、上述した第１
の実施形態ないし第３の実施形態にも適用することがで
きる。Therefore, such a configuration has the above-mentioned first structure.
The present invention can be applied to any of the above embodiments to the third embodiment.

【００６５】また、より積極的に、ブレードホルダー１
５を磁化することで、磁性体シール部材８と現像スリー
ブ２間に働かせている磁気シール力と同等の磁気シール
力を、ブレードホルダー１５とトナー容器３の間に与え
ることができる。このため、図８のブレードホルダー中
央部の断面図に示すように、例えばモルトプレン等の弾
性を利用した、ブレードホルダー１５とトナー容器３と
の間のシール部材を無くすことができる。Further, more positively, the blade holder 1
By magnetizing 5, the magnetic sealing force equivalent to the magnetic sealing force exerted between the magnetic sealing member 8 and the developing sleeve 2 can be applied between the blade holder 15 and the toner container 3. Therefore, as shown in the cross-sectional view of the central portion of the blade holder in FIG. 8, it is possible to eliminate the sealing member between the blade holder 15 and the toner container 3 which utilizes elasticity of, for example, maltoprene.

【００６６】なお、上述した各実施形態の説明は、プロ
セスカートリッジに本発明を適用する場合について説明
したが、感光ドラム等と一体化されていない、現像装置
単体にも適用することができる。In the above description of the respective embodiments, the case where the present invention is applied to the process cartridge has been described, but the present invention can also be applied to a single developing device which is not integrated with a photosensitive drum or the like.

【００６７】[0067]

【発明の効果】以上説明したように、本出願に係る第１
の発明によれば、プロセスカートリッジにおける磁性体
シール部材が、圧縮された弾性部材を介して現像剤容器
に取り付けられており、現像剤容器に取り付けた部材、
あるいは突き当て部、もしくはその双方に突き当たって
位置決めされるので、磁性体シール部材は、弾性部材の
厚さ精度、現像剤容器の弾性部材の貼り付け部の形状精
度、及び現像剤容器と弾性部材、あるいは弾性部材と磁
性体シール部材とを結合する結合部材（例えば、両面テ
ープ等）の厚さ精度に依らずに、高精度に位置決めする
ことができる。As described above, the first embodiment according to the present application is described.
According to the invention, the magnetic seal member in the process cartridge is attached to the developer container via the compressed elastic member, and the member attached to the developer container,
Alternatively, since the magnetic seal member is positioned by abutting against the abutting portion or both of them, the magnetic material seal member has a thickness accuracy of the elastic member, a shape accuracy of the attaching portion of the elastic member of the developer container, and the developer container and the elastic member. Alternatively, the positioning can be performed with high accuracy regardless of the thickness accuracy of the connecting member (for example, double-sided tape or the like) that connects the elastic member and the magnetic material sealing member.

【００６８】また、本出願に係る第２の発明によれば、
上記第１の発明のプロセスカートリッジにおける磁性体
シール部材が、圧縮された弾性部材を介して現像剤容器
に取り付けられており、現像剤規制部材の支持部材、あ
るいは現像剤容器の突き当て部、もしくはその双方に突
き当たって位置決めされるので、磁性体シール部材は、
弾性部材の厚さ精度、現像剤容器の弾性部材の貼り付け
部の形状精度、及び現像剤容器と弾性部材、あるいは弾
性部材と磁性体シール部材とを結合する結合部材（例え
ば、両面テープ等）の厚さ精度に依らずに、高精度に位
置決めすることができる。According to the second aspect of the present invention,
The magnetic seal member in the process cartridge according to the first aspect of the invention is attached to the developer container via a compressed elastic member, and is used as a support member for the developer regulating member or an abutting portion of the developer container, or Since it is positioned by hitting both, the magnetic seal member
Thickness accuracy of the elastic member, shape accuracy of the attachment portion of the elastic member of the developer container, and a connecting member for connecting the developer container and the elastic member or the elastic member and the magnetic sealing member (for example, double-sided tape) Positioning can be performed with high accuracy regardless of the thickness accuracy of.

【００６９】さらに、本出願に係る第３の発明によれ
ば、上記第２の発明におけるプロセスカートリッジの現
像剤担持体の長手方向にて、現像剤規制部材と予め磁化
した磁性体シール部材の間に、現像剤担持体と磁性体シ
ール部材の間隙の大きさと同等もしはそれ以下の間隙を
設けたので、現像剤規制部材の動作を妨げることがない
と共に、現像剤担持体の円周方向にて、現像剤規制部材
と磁性体シール部材の現像剤担持体に対向または当接す
る領域が重なるので、この間隙を現像剤が通って漏れ出
ることを防止することができ、上記第２の発明と同様に
高精度な位置決めを行うことができる。Further, according to the third invention of the present application, between the developer regulating member and the pre-magnetized magnetic material sealing member in the longitudinal direction of the developer carrying member of the process cartridge in the second invention. In addition, since the gap equal to or smaller than the gap between the developer carrying member and the magnetic seal member is provided, it does not hinder the operation of the developer regulating member and the circumferential direction of the developer carrying member. As a result, the developer regulating member and the region of the magnetic seal member that faces or abuts the developer carrying member overlap, so that it is possible to prevent the developer from leaking through this gap. Similarly, highly accurate positioning can be performed.

【００７０】また、本出願に係る第４の発明によれば、
上記第２の発明または第３の発明のプロセスカートリッ
ジにおける磁性体シール部材と現像剤規制部材の支持部
材とが接するので、磁気シール効果が、磁性体シール部
材と支持部材間で連続して及ぶので、現像剤の漏れをよ
り一層確実に防ぐことができると共に、上記第２の発明
と同様に高精度な位置決めを行うことができ、上記第３
の発明と同様に現像剤規制部材の動作が妨げられること
がない。また、支持部材を磁化することで、支持部材と
現像剤容器との間のシール部材を無くすことができる。According to the fourth invention of the present application,
Since the magnetic material sealing member and the supporting member of the developer regulating member in the process cartridge of the second invention or the third invention are in contact with each other, the magnetic sealing effect continuously extends between the magnetic material sealing member and the supporting member. In addition, it is possible to more reliably prevent the developer from leaking, and it is possible to perform highly accurate positioning as in the second aspect of the invention.
Similarly to the invention described above, the operation of the developer regulating member is not hindered. Further, by magnetizing the supporting member, the sealing member between the supporting member and the developer container can be eliminated.

【００７１】さらに、本出願に係る第５の発明によれ
ば、プロセスカートリッジにおける磁性体シール部材が
圧縮された弾性部材を介して現像剤容器に結合されてお
り、さらに磁性体シール部材は突起を有しており、この
突起が現像剤担持体に突き当たったところで位置決めさ
れているので、現像剤担持体と磁性体シール部材の間隙
を自動的にかつ高精度で一定にすることができる。Further, according to the fifth invention of the present application, the magnetic seal member of the process cartridge is coupled to the developer container through the compressed elastic member, and the magnetic seal member has the protrusion. Since the protrusion is positioned when it hits the developer carrying member, the gap between the developer carrying member and the magnetic material sealing member can be automatically and accurately fixed.

【００７２】また、本出願に係る第６の発明において
は、上記第５の発明のプロセスカートリッジにおける現
像剤担持体の長手方向にて、現像剤規制部材と予め磁化
した磁性体シール部材の間に、現像剤担持体と磁性体シ
ール部材の間隙の大きさと同等もしはそれ以下の間隙を
設けたので、現像剤規制部材の動作を妨げることがな
く、さらに現像剤担持体の円周方向にて、現像剤規制部
材と磁性体シール部材の現像剤担持体に対向または当接
する領域が重なるので、この間隙を現像剤が通って漏れ
出ることを防止することができ、第５の発明と同様に磁
性体シール部材の高精度な位置決めを行うことができ
る。Further, in the sixth invention according to the present application, between the developer regulating member and the pre-magnetized magnetic material sealing member in the longitudinal direction of the developer carrier in the process cartridge of the fifth invention. Since a gap equal to or smaller than the gap between the developer carrying member and the magnetic seal member is provided, the operation of the developer regulating member is not hindered, and further in the circumferential direction of the developer carrying member. Since the regions of the developer regulating member and the magnetic seal member that face or abut the developer carrying member overlap, it is possible to prevent the developer from leaking through this gap, like the fifth invention. The magnetic seal member can be positioned with high accuracy.

【００７３】さらに、本出願に係る第７の発明によれ
ば、上記第５の発明または第６の発明のプロセスカート
リッジにおける磁性体シール部材と現像剤規制部材の支
持部材とが接するので、磁気シール効果が、磁性体シー
ル部材と支持部材間で連続して及ぶので、現像剤の漏れ
をより一層確実に防ぐことができると共に、第５の発明
と同様に磁性体シール部材の高精度な位置決めを行うこ
とができ、また、第６の発明と同様に現像剤規制部材の
動作が妨げられることがない。また、支持部材を磁化す
ることで、支持部材と現像剤容器との間のシール部材を
無くすことができる。Furthermore, according to the seventh invention of the present application, since the magnetic seal member and the support member of the developer regulating member in the process cartridge of the fifth invention or the sixth invention are in contact with each other, the magnetic seal Since the effect continuously extends between the magnetic material seal member and the support member, the leakage of the developer can be prevented more reliably, and the magnetic material seal member can be positioned with high accuracy as in the fifth aspect of the invention. Further, the operation of the developer regulating member is not hindered as in the sixth aspect. Further, by magnetizing the supporting member, the sealing member between the supporting member and the developer container can be eliminated.

【００７４】また、本出願に係る第８の発明によれば、
現像装置における磁性体シール部材が、圧縮された弾性
部材を介して現像剤容器に取り付けられており、現像剤
容器に取り付けた部材、あるいは突き当て部、もしくは
その双方に突き当たって位置決めされるので、磁性体シ
ール部材は、弾性部材の厚さ精度、現像剤容器の弾性部
材の貼り付け部の形状精度、及び現像剤容器と弾性部
材、あるいは弾性部材と磁性体シール部材とを結合する
結合部材（例えば、両面テープ等）の厚さ精度に依らず
に、高精度に位置決めすることができる。According to the eighth invention of the present application,
The magnetic seal member in the developing device is attached to the developer container via the compressed elastic member, and the member attached to the developer container, or the abutting portion, or both, is positioned so that it is positioned. The magnetic material seal member has a thickness accuracy of the elastic member, a shape accuracy of the attaching portion of the elastic member of the developer container, and a coupling member for connecting the developer container and the elastic member or the elastic member and the magnetic material seal member ( For example, the positioning can be performed with high accuracy regardless of the thickness accuracy of the double-sided tape or the like.

【００７５】さらに、本出願に係る第９の発明によれ
ば、上記第８の発明の現像装置における磁性体シール部
材が、圧縮された弾性部材を介して現像剤容器に取り付
けられており、現像剤規制部材の支持部材、あるいは現
像剤容器の突き当て部、もしくはその双方に突き当たっ
て位置決めされるので、磁性体シール部材は、弾性部材
の厚さ精度、現像剤容器の弾性部材の貼り付け部の形状
精度、及び現像剤容器と弾性部材、あるいは弾性部材と
磁性体シール部材とを結合する結合部材（例えば、両面
テープ等）の厚さ精度に依らずに、高精度に位置決めす
ることができる。Further, according to the ninth invention of the present application, the magnetic seal member in the developing device of the eighth invention is attached to the developer container via a compressed elastic member, Since the magnetic material seal member is positioned by abutting against the support member of the developer regulating member, the abutting portion of the developer container, or both, the magnetic material sealing member has a thickness accuracy of the elastic member and an attaching portion of the elastic member of the developer container. Can be positioned with high accuracy regardless of the shape accuracy of the developer container and the thickness accuracy of the connecting member (for example, double-sided tape or the like) that connects the developer container and the elastic member or the elastic member and the magnetic material sealing member. .

【００７６】また、本出願に係る第１０の発明によれ
ば、上記第９の発明の現像装置における現像剤担持体の
長手方向にて、現像剤規制部材と予め磁化した磁性体シ
ール部材の間に、現像剤担持体と磁性体シール部材の間
隙の大きさと同等もしはそれ以下の間隙を設けたので、
現像剤規制部材の動作を妨げることがないと共に、現像
剤担持体の円周方向にて、現像剤規制部材と磁性体シー
ル部材の現像剤担持体に対向または当接する領域が重な
るので、この間隙を現像剤が通って漏れ出ることを防止
することができ、上記第９の発明と同様に高精度な位置
決めを行うことができる。According to the tenth invention of the present application, between the developer regulating member and the pre-magnetized magnetic material sealing member in the longitudinal direction of the developer carrier in the developing device of the ninth invention. In addition, since a gap equal to or smaller than the gap between the developer carrying member and the magnetic seal member is provided,
Since the operation of the developer regulating member is not hindered and the developer regulating member and the area of the magnetic seal member facing or abutting the developer bearing body overlap in the circumferential direction of the developer bearing body, this gap The developer can be prevented from passing through and leaking out, and highly accurate positioning can be performed as in the ninth aspect of the invention.

【００７７】さらに、本出願に係る第１１の発明によれ
ば、上記第９の発明または第１０の発明の現像装置にお
ける磁性体シール部材と現像剤規制部材の支持部材とが
接するので、磁気シール効果が、磁性体シール部材と支
持部材間で連続して及ぶので、現像剤の漏れをより一層
確実に防ぐと共に、上記第９の発明と同様に高精度な位
置決めを行うことができ、上記第１０の発明と同様に現
像剤規制部材の動作が妨げられることがない。また、支
持部材を磁化することで、支持部材と現像剤容器との間
のシール部材を無くすことができる。Further, according to the eleventh invention of the present application, since the magnetic material sealing member and the supporting member of the developer regulating member in the developing device of the ninth invention or the tenth invention are in contact with each other, the magnetic seal is provided. Since the effect continuously extends between the magnetic seal member and the support member, the leakage of the developer can be more surely prevented, and the positioning can be performed with high precision as in the ninth aspect. As in the tenth aspect, the operation of the developer regulating member is not hindered. Further, by magnetizing the supporting member, the sealing member between the supporting member and the developer container can be eliminated.

【００７８】また、本出願に係る第１２の発明によれ
ば、現像装置における磁性体シール部材が圧縮された弾
性部材を介して現像剤容器に結合されており、さらに磁
性体シール部材は突起を有しており、この突起が現像剤
担持体に突き当たったところで位置決めされているの
で、現像剤担持体と磁性体シール部材の間隙を自動的に
かつ高精度で一定にすることができる。According to the twelfth invention of the present application, the magnetic seal member in the developing device is coupled to the developer container via the compressed elastic member, and the magnetic seal member has a protrusion. Since the protrusion is positioned when it hits the developer carrying member, the gap between the developer carrying member and the magnetic material sealing member can be automatically and accurately fixed.

【００７９】さらに、本出願に係る第１３の発明によれ
ば、上記第１２の発明の現像装置における現像剤担持体
の長手方向にて、現像剤規制部材と予め磁化した磁性体
シール部材の間に、現像剤担持体と磁性体シール部材の
間隙の大きさと同等もしはそれ以下の間隙を設けたの
で、現像剤規制部材の動作を妨げることがなく、現像剤
担持体の円周方向にて、現像剤規制部材と磁性体シール
部材の現像剤担持体に対向または当接する領域が重なる
ので、この間隙を現像剤が通って漏れ出ることを防止す
ることができ、第１２の発明と同様に磁性体シール部材
の高精度な位置決めを行うことができる。Further, according to the thirteenth invention of the present application, between the developer regulating member and the pre-magnetized magnetic material sealing member in the longitudinal direction of the developer carrier in the developing device of the twelfth invention. In addition, since the gap equal to or smaller than the gap between the developer carrier and the magnetic seal member is provided, the operation of the developer regulating member is not hindered and the developer carrier does not move in the circumferential direction. Since the developer regulating member and the region of the magnetic material sealing member that faces or abuts the developer carrying member overlap, it is possible to prevent the developer from leaking through this gap, and similar to the twelfth invention. The magnetic seal member can be positioned with high accuracy.

【００８０】また、本出願に係る第１４の発明によれ
ば、上記第１２の発明または第１３の発明における磁性
体シール部材と現像剤規制部材の支持部材とが接するの
で、磁気シール効果が、磁性体シール部材と支持部材間
で連続して及ぶので、現像剤の漏れをより一層確実に防
ぐことができると共に、第１２の発明と同様に磁性体シ
ール部材の高精度な位置決めを行うことができ、また、
第１３の発明と同様に現像剤規制部材の動作が妨げられ
ることがない。また、支持部材を磁化することで、支持
部材と現像剤容器との間のシール部材を無くすことがで
きる。According to the fourteenth invention of the present application, since the magnetic material sealing member of the twelfth invention or the thirteenth invention is in contact with the support member of the developer regulating member, the magnetic sealing effect is Since the magnetic material seal member and the support member extend continuously, it is possible to more reliably prevent the developer from leaking, and it is possible to position the magnetic material seal member with high accuracy as in the twelfth aspect of the invention. Yes, again
As with the thirteenth invention, the operation of the developer regulating member is not hindered. Further, by magnetizing the supporting member, the sealing member between the supporting member and the developer container can be eliminated.

[Brief description of drawings]

【図１】本発明に係る第１の実施形態におけるプロセス
カートリッジの断面構成図である。FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional configuration diagram of a process cartridge according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

【図２】本発明に係る第１の実施形態における現像装置
要部の断面構成図である。FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional configuration diagram of a main part of the developing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

【図３】本発明に係る第１の実施形態における現像装置
の長手方向の断面構成図である。FIG. 3 is a longitudinal cross-sectional configuration diagram of the developing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

【図４】本発明に係る第２の実施形態の現像装置要部の
断面構成図である。FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional configuration diagram of a main part of a developing device according to a second embodiment of the invention.

【図５】本発明に係る第３の実施形態における現像装置
要部の断面構成図である。FIG. 5 is a sectional configuration diagram of a main part of a developing device according to a third embodiment of the invention.

【図６】本発明に係る第３の実施形態における現像装置
要部の長手方向の断面構成図である。FIG. 6 is a longitudinal cross-sectional configuration diagram of a main part of a developing device according to a third embodiment of the invention.

【図７】本発明に係る第４の実施形態における現像装置
要部の断面構成図である。FIG. 7 is a sectional configuration diagram of a main part of a developing device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

【図８】本発明に係る第４の実施形態における現像装置
要部のブレードホルダー周辺の断面構成図である。FIG. 8 is a sectional configuration diagram around a blade holder of a main part of a developing device in a fourth embodiment according to the present invention.

【図９】従来のプロセスカートリッジの現像装置の断面
構成図である。FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional configuration diagram of a developing device of a conventional process cartridge.

【図１０】従来のプロセスカートリッジの現像装置要部
の長手方向断面構成図である。FIG. 10 is a longitudinal cross-sectional configuration diagram of a main part of a developing device of a conventional process cartridge.

【図１１】磁性シール部材を用いた従来のプロセスカー
トリッジの現像装置要部の長手方向の断面構成図であ
る。FIG. 11 is a longitudinal cross-sectional configuration diagram of a main part of a developing device of a conventional process cartridge using a magnetic seal member.

[Explanation of symbols]

１感光ドラム（像担持体）２現像スリーブ（現像剤担持体）３トナー容器（現像剤容器）４磁石（磁界発生手段）６現像ブレード（現像剤規制部材）８磁性体シール部材８ａ突起１４弾性部材１５ブレードホルダー（現像剤規制部材を支持する支
持部材）1 photosensitive drum (image carrier) 2 developing sleeve (developer carrier) 3 toner container (developer container) 4 magnet (magnetic field generating means) 6 developing blade (developer regulating member) 8 magnetic seal member 8a protrusion 14 elasticity Member 15 Blade holder (support member for supporting the developer regulating member)

───────────────────────────────────────────────────── フロントページの続き (72)発明者沼上敦東京都大田区下丸子三丁目30番２号キヤノン株式会社内 ─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuation of the front page (72) Inventor Atsushi Numagami 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Canon Inc.

Claims

[Claims]

1. An image carrier, a developer container containing a developer, and a developer container rotatably supported by the developer container so as to face the image carrier, and having a magnetic field generating means inside. A cylindrical developer carrier that carries and conveys an agent, and a part of the outer peripheral surface of the developer container with a predetermined gap between the both ends of the developer carrier and the outer peripheral surface of the developer carrier. A magnetic material sealing member covering from the inner side, and a magnetic field is formed between the magnetic material sealing member and the magnetic field generating means in the developer carrying member, and a gap portion between the magnetic material sealing member and the developer carrying member. In a process cartridge that seals the developer by forming a magnetic brush of the developer along the magnetic lines of force, the magnetic seal member is attached to the developer container via a compressed elastic member, The above of the magnetic seal member Positioning is performed by causing the end surface on the side facing the image carrier to abut on the abutting portion formed on the developer container, a member attached to the developer container, or both the member and the abutting portion. Process cartridge characterized by being processed.

2. The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the member attached to the developer container is a supporting member for supporting a developer regulating member arranged so as to abut on the developer carrying member.

3. The magnetic material seal member is magnetized in advance, and the magnetic material seal member and the developer regulating member are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the developer carrier in the same direction as the gap between the developer carrier and the magnetic material seal member. A part of the area where the magnetic material sealing member covers the outer peripheral surface of the developer carrier and the area where the developer regulating member contacts the developer carrier have a gap of about or less, and the developer carrier carries the developer carrier. The process cartridge according to claim 2, wherein the process cartridges overlap each other in the circumferential direction of the body.

4. The process cartridge according to claim 2, wherein the magnetic seal member is magnetized in advance and is in contact with a support member that supports the developer regulating member.

5. An image carrier, a developer container containing a developer, and a developer container rotatably supported by the developer container so as to face the image carrier and having a magnetic field generating means therein. A cylindrical developer carrier that carries and conveys an agent, and a part of the outer peripheral surface of the developer container with a predetermined gap between the both ends of the developer carrier and the outer peripheral surface of the developer carrier. A magnetic material sealing member covering from the inner side, and a magnetic field is formed between the magnetic material sealing member and the magnetic field generating means in the developer carrying member, and a gap portion between the magnetic material sealing member and the developer carrying member. In a process cartridge that seals the developer by forming a magnetic brush of the developer along the lines of magnetic force, the magnetic seal member is provided on the inner surface that covers the outer peripheral surface of the developer carrier, or on the inner surface side. , The protrusion has the above-mentioned A process cartridge characterized by being positioned by hitting an outer peripheral surface of a developer carrier.

6. The magnetic material seal member is magnetized in advance, and is provided with a developer regulating member arranged so as to come into contact with the developer carrying member, and the magnetic substance seal member and the developer regulating member are:
There is a gap in the longitudinal direction of the developer carrying member that is about the same as or less than the gap between the developer carrying member and the magnetic seal member, and the magnetic seal member covers the outer peripheral surface of the developer carrying member. The process cartridge according to claim 5, wherein a part of the area and the area where the developer regulating member comes into contact with the developer carrying body overlap each other in the circumferential direction of the developer carrying body.

7. The magnetic seal member, which is magnetized in advance, includes a developer regulating member arranged so as to abut the developer carrying member, and a support member for supporting the developer regulating member. The body seal member is in contact with a support member that supports the developer regulating member.
The process cartridge according to 1.

8. A developer container for accommodating a developer, and a developer container supported by the developer container so as to be opposed to and rotatable with respect to an image carrier.
A cylindrical developer carrier having a magnetic field generating means therein for carrying and carrying the developer, and a predetermined gap with respect to the outer peripheral surface of the developer carrier at both ends of the developer carrier. A magnetic material sealing member that covers a part of the outer peripheral surface from the inside of the developer container, and a magnetic field is formed between the magnetic material sealing member and the magnetic field generating means in the developer carrying body; In the developing device that seals the developer by forming a magnetic brush of the developer along a magnetic line of force in a gap between the member and the developer carrying member, the magnetic seal member is
It is attached to the developer container via a compressed elastic member, and the end face of the magnetic seal member facing the image carrier is attached to the abutting portion formed on the developer container, or A developing device characterized by being positioned by abutting against a member attached to a developer container or both of the member and the abutting portion.

9. The developing device according to claim 8, wherein the member attached to the developer container is a supporting member that supports a developer regulating member that is arranged so as to contact the developer carrying member.

10. The magnetic material seal member is magnetized in advance, and the magnetic material seal member and the developer regulating member are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the developer carrier in the same direction as the gap between the developer carrier and the magnetic material seal member. A part of the area where the magnetic material sealing member covers the outer peripheral surface of the developer carrier and the area where the developer regulating member contacts the developer carrier have a gap of about or less, and the developer carrier carries the developer carrier. The developing device according to claim 9, wherein the developing devices overlap each other in the circumferential direction of the body.

11. The magnetic material seal member is magnetized in advance, and the magnetic material seal member is in contact with a support member that supports the developer regulating member.
The developing device according to item 0.

12. A developer container for accommodating a developer, and a cylindrical body which is supported by the developer container so as to be opposed to and rotatable with respect to an image carrier and has a magnetic field generating means therein to carry and convey the developer. -Shaped developer carrier, and a magnetic material seal for covering a part of the outer peripheral surface from the inside of the developer container with a predetermined gap between the outer peripheral surface of the developer carrier and both ends of the developer carrier. A member for forming a magnetic field between the magnetic seal member and the magnetic field generating means in the developer carrier, and the developer in the gap between the magnetic seal member and the developer carrier along the lines of magnetic force. In the developing device that seals the developer by forming the magnetic brush, the magnetic seal member has a protrusion on the inner surface covering the outer peripheral surface of the developer carrier or on the inner surface side. , The projection abuts the outer peripheral surface of the developer carrying member. A developing device characterized by being positioned by tapping.

13. The magnetic material seal member is magnetized in advance, and is provided with a developer regulating member arranged so as to contact the developer carrying member. The magnetic substance seal member and the developer regulating member are:
There is a gap in the longitudinal direction of the developer carrying member that is about the same as or less than the gap between the developer carrying member and the magnetic material sealing member, and the magnetic material sealing member covers the outer peripheral surface of the developer carrying member. 13. The developing device according to claim 12, wherein a part of the developer regulating member is in contact with the developer carrying member in the circumferential direction of the developer carrying member.

14. The magnetic seal member is pre-magnetized, and includes a developer regulating member arranged so as to contact the developer carrying member, and a support member supporting the developer regulating member. The developing device according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the body seal member is in contact with a support member that supports the developer regulating member.