JPH0463378A - Method and device for toner replenishment - Google Patents
Method and device for toner replenishmentInfo
- Publication number
- JPH0463378A JPH0463378A JP2176622A JP17662290A JPH0463378A JP H0463378 A JPH0463378 A JP H0463378A JP 2176622 A JP2176622 A JP 2176622A JP 17662290 A JP17662290 A JP 17662290A JP H0463378 A JPH0463378 A JP H0463378A
- Authority
- JP
- Japan
- Prior art keywords
- toner
- screen member
- magnetic
- magnetic field
- blocking wall
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Pending
Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims description 13
- 230000000903 blocking effect Effects 0.000 claims description 44
- 239000006247 magnetic powder Substances 0.000 claims description 27
- 239000011148 porous material Substances 0.000 claims 1
- 239000000843 powder Substances 0.000 abstract description 6
- 239000000779 smoke Substances 0.000 abstract description 5
- 230000001105 regulatory effect Effects 0.000 description 14
- 108091008695 photoreceptors Proteins 0.000 description 11
- 239000010409 thin film Substances 0.000 description 11
- 239000000696 magnetic material Substances 0.000 description 6
- 238000001514 detection method Methods 0.000 description 5
- 238000011161 development Methods 0.000 description 5
- 238000005192 partition Methods 0.000 description 5
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 4
- 239000002245 particle Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000013459 approach Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000007423 decrease Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000000452 restraining effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000003756 stirring Methods 0.000 description 2
- OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon Chemical compound [C] OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004642 Polyimide Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052799 carbon Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000003795 chemical substances by application Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000011109 contamination Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000006866 deterioration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 210000003746 feather Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 230000003993 interaction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000006249 magnetic particle Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005259 measurement Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920001778 nylon Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000003647 oxidation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007254 oxidation reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000035699 permeability Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000004417 polycarbonate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920000515 polycarbonate Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920001721 polyimide Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000002265 prevention Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012546 transfer Methods 0.000 description 1
Landscapes
- Dry Development In Electrophotography (AREA)
Abstract
Description
【発明の詳細な説明】
〔産業上の利用分野〕
本発明は、粉体現像剤を使用する複写機、プリンタ、フ
ァクンミリ等の画像形成装置において、現像装置に付設
されるトナー補給装置に関するものである。[Detailed Description of the Invention] [Field of Industrial Application] The present invention relates to a toner supply device attached to a developing device in an image forming device such as a copying machine, a printer, or a facsimile machine that uses a powder developer. be.
〔従来の技術：
トナーとキャリアとからなる二成分系の現像剤を使用す
る現像装置では、キャリアに供給されたトナーをいかに
早く現像に必要な帯電位まで立ち上げるかが重要な課題
である。[Prior art: In a developing device that uses a two-component developer consisting of toner and carrier, an important issue is how quickly the toner supplied to the carrier can be raised to the charging potential necessary for development.
その理由は、トナー帯電位か立ち上からず、帯電不良の
まま現像に供されると、この帯電不良トナーが現像剤か
ら分離し飛散して機械内部を汚染したり、前記飛散した
トナーが感光体に付着し、さらにこれが紙などの転写材
に転写されて地肌カブリを生じて画質不良を招くからで
ある。The reason for this is that if the toner charge potential does not rise and the toner is subjected to development with poor charging, the poorly charged toner may separate from the developer and scatter, contaminating the inside of the machine, or the scattered toner may become exposed to light. This is because the toner adheres to the body and is further transferred to a transfer material such as paper, causing background fog and resulting in poor image quality.
特に、高速の複写機、プリンタの場合、現像剤の搬送速
度が速いこともあって、トナーが現像剤に供給されてか
ら現像に供されるまでの時間が短く、前記地肌カブリ等
を発生する危険性が極めて高いことから、これらの機種
ではトナーの帯電位を早急に立ち上げることが重要な課
題となる。In particular, in the case of high-speed copying machines and printers, the time from when the toner is supplied to the developer until it is used for development is short, partly because the conveyance speed of the developer is fast, resulting in the occurrence of the above-mentioned background fog etc. Since the danger is extremely high, it is important for these models to quickly raise the potential of the toner.
この課題を解決する有効な手段として、従来より、板材
に多数の孔を規則的に設けたスクリーン部材又は網目状
のスクリーン部材を介してトナーを分数補給する方法及
び装置か提案されている。As an effective means for solving this problem, methods and devices have been proposed in which toner is supplied fractionally through a screen member in which a large number of holes are regularly provided in a plate material or a mesh screen member.
このスクリーン部材を用いたトナー補給装置は、一般に
、底部に開口を有するトナー補給室と、前記開口を寒く
スクリーン部材と、該スクリーン部材の上面と接触しな
がら回転する回転部材と、で構成されている。A toner replenishment device using this screen member generally includes a toner replenishment chamber having an opening at the bottom, a screen member that cools the opening, and a rotating member that rotates while contacting the upper surface of the screen member. There is.
前記トナー補給装置では、トナー補給室に収容されたト
ナーは、前記回転部材の回転に基ついてスクリーン部材
の開孔部を介してその下方に落下補給される。In the toner replenishing device, the toner stored in the toner replenishing chamber is replenished downward through the opening of the screen member as the rotating member rotates.
しかしながら、前記スクリーン部材を用いたトナー補給
方法及び装置では、スクリーン部材上に常にトナーか位
置しているので、画像形成装置の駆動に伴う振動や外的
な振動によって、前記スクリーン部材上のトナーがスク
リーン開孔部を介して落下補給されることがある。However, in the toner replenishment method and apparatus using the screen member, since the toner is always located on the screen member, the toner on the screen member is removed by vibrations accompanying the driving of the image forming apparatus or external vibrations. May be supplemented by drops through screen openings.
この場合、現像剤のトナー含有比が急激に高くなり、ト
ナーの帯電が十分行わりす、現像装置からトナー粉煙か
発生して地肌カブリ、機械汚染を招くという問題を生し
る。In this case, the toner content ratio of the developer increases rapidly, causing the problem that the toner is not sufficiently charged and toner powder smoke is generated from the developing device, causing background fog and machine contamination.
〔課題を解決するための手段及び作用コ本発明は、前記
問題を解決するためになされたものである。[Means and effects for solving the problems The present invention has been made in order to solve the above problems.
そして、請求項１のトナー補給方法は、スクリーン部材
を介してトナーを落下補給するトナー補給方法において
、トナー非補給時、前記トナーか落下するときに通過す
る領域に磁気力に基づくトナー遮断壁を形成するもので
ある。The toner replenishing method according to claim 1 is a toner replenishing method in which toner is dropped and replenished through a screen member, and when toner is not replenished, a toner blocking wall based on magnetic force is provided in a region through which the toner falls. It is something that forms.
次に、請求項５のトナー補給装置は、スクリーン部材と
、該スクリーン部材上に位置するトナーと、前記スクリ
ーン部材を介して前記トナーを落下補給する補給手段と
、トナー非補給時、前記トナーが落下するときに通過す
る領域に磁気力に基づくトナー遮断壁を形成する遮断壁
形成手段と、からなるものである。Next, the toner replenishing device according to a fifth aspect of the present invention includes: a screen member; a toner located on the screen member; a replenishing means for replenishing the toner by dropping through the screen member; and a blocking wall forming means for forming a blocking wall based on magnetic force in the area through which the toner passes when falling.
続いて、請求項１０のトナー補給装置は、第１のスクリ
ーン部材と、該第１のスクリーン部材上に位置する磁性
トナーと、前記第１のスクリーン部材を介して前記トナ
ーを落下補給する補給手段と、前記第１のスクリーン部
材の下方に位置し、第１のスクリーン部材よりも開孔率
の大きい第２のスクリーン部材と、トナー非補給時、前
記トナーか落下するときに通過する領域に磁気力に基づ
くトナー遮断壁を形成する遮断壁形成手段と、からなる
ものである。Next, the toner replenishing device according to a tenth aspect of the present invention includes a first screen member, a magnetic toner located on the first screen member, and a replenishing means for replenishing the toner by dropping through the first screen member. a second screen member located below the first screen member and having a larger aperture ratio than the first screen member; and a magnetic field in a region through which the toner falls when toner is not replenished. and a barrier forming means for forming a force-based toner barrier.
なお、これらのトナー補給方法及びトナー補給装置では
、前記トナーに磁性トナーを用い、トナー遮断壁を磁界
だけで形成するようにしてもよい。Note that in these toner replenishment methods and toner replenishment devices, magnetic toner may be used as the toner, and the toner blocking wall may be formed only by a magnetic field.
また、トナー遮断壁を磁界と該磁界に拘束される磁性粉
で形成してもよい。さらに、トナー遮断壁は、スクリー
ン部材またはその下方領域、若しくはスクリーン部材及
びその下方領域いずれに設けてもよい。さらにまた、ト
ナー補給装置には、スクリーン部材の近傍に磁性粉を搬
送する搬送手段を設けてもよい。Further, the toner blocking wall may be formed of a magnetic field and magnetic powder bound by the magnetic field. Further, the toner blocking wall may be provided on the screen member or the region below the screen member, or on the screen member and the region below the screen member. Furthermore, the toner replenishing device may be provided with a conveying means for conveying the magnetic powder near the screen member.
以上のトナー補給方法及びトナー補給装置では、トナー
補給時、トナーはスクリーン部材、または第１のスクリ
ーン部材及び第２のスクリーン部材を介してその下方領
域に落下補給される。一方、トナー非補給時、トナーか
落下する領域に磁気力に基つくトナー遮断壁か形成され
、振動等によって落下するトナーか前記トナー遮断壁に
拘束され、その下方への落下か阻止される。In the above-described toner replenishment method and toner replenishment device, during toner replenishment, toner is dropped and replenished into the lower region through the screen member or the first screen member and the second screen member. On the other hand, when toner is not replenished, a toner blocking wall based on magnetic force is formed in a region where toner falls, and toner falling due to vibration or the like is restrained by the toner blocking wall and prevented from falling downward.
なお、トナーに磁性トナーを用い、トナー遮断壁を磁界
で形成するものでは、この磁界に磁性トナーが保持され
、トナー自身でトナー落下防止壁を形成する。また、ト
ナー遮断壁を、磁界とこの磁界に拘束されたキャリア又
はこれにトナーを加えた現像剤である磁性粉て形成する
ものでは、落下するトナーは前記キャリア等によって捕
獲される。さらに、トナー遮断壁をスクリーン部材に形
成する場合、スクリーン部材を磁性材とすることで、磁
性粉の拘束力をよりアップすることができる。さらにま
た、スクリーン部材の近傍に磁性粉を搬送する搬送手段
を備えたものでは、この搬送手段によって搬送されてき
た磁性粉が磁界に拘束されてトナー遮断壁が形成される
。Note that in the case where a magnetic toner is used and a toner blocking wall is formed by a magnetic field, the magnetic toner is held by this magnetic field, and the toner itself forms a toner fall prevention wall. Further, in the case where the toner blocking wall is formed of a magnetic field, a carrier bound by the magnetic field, or magnetic powder, which is a developer made by adding toner to the magnetic field, the falling toner is captured by the carrier or the like. Further, when the toner blocking wall is formed on the screen member, by making the screen member a magnetic material, the binding force of the magnetic powder can be further increased. Furthermore, in the case where a conveyance means for conveying the magnetic powder is provided near the screen member, the magnetic powder conveyed by the conveyance means is restrained by the magnetic field to form a toner blocking wall.
次に、請求項１５のトナー補給装置は、スクリーン部材
と、該スクリーン部材上に位置するトナーと、前記スク
リーン部材を介して前記トナーを落下補給する補給手段
と、前記スクリーン部材の下方でその両側に位置する磁
界形成手段と、該磁界形成手段に保持された磁性粉と、
トナー非補給時は前記磁界形成手段に保持されている磁
性粉を連ねてトナー遮断壁を形成し、トナー補給時は前
記トナー遮断壁を解除する開閉手段と、からなるもので
ある。Next, the toner replenishing device according to claim 15 includes a screen member, a toner located on the screen member, a replenishing means for dropping and replenishing the toner through the screen member, and a replenishing means below the screen member on both sides thereof. a magnetic field forming means located at the magnetic field forming means; and magnetic powder held by the magnetic field forming means;
The magnetic powder held by the magnetic field forming means is connected to form a toner blocking wall when toner is not replenished, and opening/closing means releases the toner blocking wall when toner is replenished.
このトナー補給装置では、トナー非補給時、それぞれの
磁界形成手段に保持された磁性粉か連なりトナー遮断壁
が形成され、これによってその下方へのトナーの落下が
阻止される。In this toner replenishing device, when toner is not replenished, the magnetic powder held by each magnetic field forming means forms a toner blocking wall, which prevents toner from falling downward.
以下、本発明の実施例を添付図面を参照して説明する。 Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
Ａ、現像装置の構成
第１図に示す現像装置１は、概略、供給部１０、濃度検
出部２０、現像部３０、回収部４０、トナー補給部５０
で構成されている。A. Configuration of Developing Device The developing device 1 shown in FIG.
It consists of
供給部１０
供給部１０の供給室１１には供給羽根１２か設けである
。この供給羽根）２は、軸１３の両端にそれぞれ設けた
測成１４．１４の外周部に複数の掬いＦｆｉ１５を横架
したもので、矢印ａ方向に回転駆動可能としである。Supply section 10 The supply chamber 11 of the supply section 10 is provided with a supply blade 12 . This supply vane) 2 has a plurality of scoops Ffi 15 horizontally mounted on the outer periphery of gauges 14 and 14 provided at both ends of the shaft 13, and is rotatable in the direction of arrow a.
濃度検出部２０
濃度検出部２０は供給部１０の後部（図上左側）に設け
てあり、供給室１１に連続しこれと平行に形成した搬送
路２１に搬送羽根２２が設けである。Concentration Detection Section 20 The concentration detection section 20 is provided at the rear of the supply section 10 (on the left side in the figure), and a conveyance blade 22 is provided on a conveyance path 21 that is continuous with and parallel to the supply chamber 11 .
搬送羽根２２は、第２図に示すように、軸２３の中央に
掬い板２４を有し、その両側に複数の羽根２５を所定間
隔ごとに備えている。これら羽根２５の取り付は角度は
掬い板２４の左右で違えてあり、搬送羽根の回転による
搬送性が左右で異なるようにしである。すなわち、第２
図において、左側の羽根２５は右側への搬送性を有し、
右側の羽根２５は左側への搬送性を有する。また、供給
室１１と搬送路２１との開の壁２６には、前記掬い板２
４が対向する部分に通路２７が設けである。As shown in FIG. 2, the conveying blade 22 has a scooping plate 24 at the center of a shaft 23, and a plurality of blades 25 on both sides of the scooping plate 24 at predetermined intervals. These blades 25 are attached at different angles on the left and right sides of the scooping plate 24, so that the conveying performance due to the rotation of the conveying blades is different between the left and right sides. That is, the second
In the figure, the left wing 25 has the ability to convey to the right side,
The right wing 25 has the ability to convey to the left. Further, the scooping plate 2 is provided on the open wall 26 between the supply chamber 11 and the conveyance path 21.
A passage 27 is provided in the portion where 4 faces each other.
さらに、搬送路２１の中央底部には、現像剤の透磁率変
化を１ｔｔｌｌ定するトナーａ度検出センサ２８が設け
てあり、そのセンサ面か搬送路２１の底面とほぼ一致さ
せである。Further, a toner degree detection sensor 28 is provided at the center bottom of the conveyance path 21 to determine the change in magnetic permeability of the developer, and its sensor surface is substantially aligned with the bottom surface of the conveyance path 21.
ｊｌ 現像部３０
現像部３０において、円筒体３１は非磁性材からなり、
感光体１００と所定のキャップをもって対向配置してあ
り、図示しない軸を中心に矢印Ｃ方向に回転駆動するよ
うにしである。また、円筒体３１は電源３２に接続され
、所定のバイアス電圧ＶＢが印加されるようになってい
る。jl Developing section 30 In the developing section 30, the cylindrical body 31 is made of a non-magnetic material,
It is arranged to face the photoreceptor 100 with a predetermined cap, and is configured to be rotated in the direction of arrow C about an axis (not shown). Further, the cylindrical body 31 is connected to a power source 32, and a predetermined bias voltage VB is applied thereto.
磁石体３３は前記円筒体３Ｉの軸方向に延在する複数の
磁極（Ｎ、、Ｎ、、Ｓ、、Ｎ３．Ｎ、、Ｓ、。The magnet body 33 has a plurality of magnetic poles (N, , N, , S, , N3.N, , S,) extending in the axial direction of the cylindrical body 3I.
Ｎ５．Ｓ３）を外周部にこの順序で設け、同極性の磁極
Ｎ１とＮ１、磁極Ｎ、とＮ４を隣接し、それらの中間を
それぞれ無磁極領域Ｍ、、Ｍ、としたもので、円筒体３
１の内部に非回転状態に固定され、前記無磁極領域Ｍ１
を円筒体３１と感光体１００との対向部よりも上方に位
置し、無磁極領域Ｍ、が供給羽根１２との対向部に位置
させである。N5. S3) are provided in this order on the outer periphery, magnetic poles N1 and N1, magnetic poles N, and N4 of the same polarity are adjacent to each other, and the intermediate areas thereof are designated as non-magnetic pole regions M, , M, respectively, and the cylindrical body 3
1 in a non-rotating state, and the non-magnetic pole region M1
is located above the opposing portion between the cylindrical body 31 and the photoreceptor 100, and the non-magnetic pole region M is located at the opposing portion with the supply vane 12.
薄膜部材３４は円筒体３１の周長よりも僅かに長い周長
を有する薄肉（厚さ０ ２ｍｍ）の筒状体で、円筒体３
１に外装されている。この薄膜部材３４は、ナイロン、
ポリイミド、ポリカーボネイトからなり、カーボンを加
えて導電性か付与しである。The thin film member 34 is a thin-walled (02 mm thick) cylindrical body having a circumference slightly longer than the circumference of the cylindrical body 31.
It is packaged in 1. This thin film member 34 is made of nylon,
It is made of polyimide and polycarbonate, and carbon is added to give it conductivity.
規制部材３６は現像槽の上部に取り付けてあり、その先
端か円筒体３１の上部外周面に所定のキャップＤ Ｂｌ
をもって対向させである。The regulating member 36 is attached to the upper part of the developer tank, and a predetermined cap D Bl is attached to the tip of the regulating member 36 or to the outer peripheral surface of the upper part of the cylindrical body 31.
They are facing each other.
均し部材３７は規制部′Ｎ３６を介して現像槽に取り付
けてあり、その先端が薄膜部材３４の無磁極領域Ｍ１に
対向する領域の近傍に所定のギヤノブＤ８．をもって対
向させである。The leveling member 37 is attached to the developer tank via a regulating portion 'N36, and its tip is connected to a predetermined gear knob D8. They are facing each other.
ｉｖ、回収部４０
回収部４０は供給部ＩＯの上方に位置し、隔壁４１で供
給部１０と仕切られており、隔壁４１の前壁４２は円筒
体３１と所定の間隔をもって形成され、その上端と規制
部材３６との間に通路４３が設けてあり、隔壁４２の後
壁４４と濃度測定部２０の上カバー２９との間に供給室
１１に通じる落下路４５が設けである。また、回収部４
０には、二つの送り羽＋！４７．４８か前後に設けてあ
り、それぞれ矢印ｄ、ｅ方向に回転駆動するようにしで
ある。iv, Collection part 40 The collection part 40 is located above the supply part IO, and is partitioned from the supply part 10 by a partition wall 41. The front wall 42 of the partition wall 41 is formed with a predetermined distance from the cylindrical body 31, and the upper end of the collection part 40 is located above the supply part IO. A passage 43 is provided between the rear wall 44 of the partition wall 42 and the upper cover 29 of the concentration measurement section 20, and a drop path 45 leading to the supply chamber 11 is provided between the rear wall 44 of the partition wall 42 and the upper cover 29 of the concentration measuring section 20. In addition, the collection section 4
0 has two feathers +! 47 and 48, and are arranged to rotate in the directions of arrows d and e, respectively.
■ トナー補給部５０
トナー補給部５０には、収容室５１と補給室５４とか形
成されている。(2) Toner supply section 50 The toner supply section 50 includes a storage chamber 51 and a supply chamber 54 .
撹拌羽根５２． ５３は収容室５１にそれぞれ配置され
、矢印ｆ、 ｇ方向に回転駆動するようにしである。Stirring blade 52. 53 are arranged in the storage chamber 51, respectively, and are configured to rotate in the directions of arrows f and g.
補給室５４の底部には開口５４ａか設けてあり、第４図
に示すように、この間口５４ａを覆うようにスクリーン
部材５６が設けである。An opening 54a is provided at the bottom of the supply chamber 54, and as shown in FIG. 4, a screen member 56 is provided to cover this opening 54a.
また、補給室５４にはブラシロール５５が矢印り方向に
回転駆動可能に設けてあり、プランロール５５の毛先が
前記スクリーン部材５６の上面と接触するようにしであ
る。なお、スクリーン部材５６は非磁性の薄板に多数の
孔を規則的に設けたものであっても、網状体であっても
よい。Further, a brush roll 55 is provided in the supply chamber 54 so as to be rotatable in the direction of the arrow, and the bristles of the plan roll 55 are in contact with the upper surface of the screen member 56. The screen member 56 may be a non-magnetic thin plate with a large number of regularly provided holes, or may be a net-like member.
トナー遮断装置６０は、トナー非補給時にトナ−の落下
を禁止するためのもので、第４〜６図に示すように、収
容部６１ａ、６１ｂ、ＩｎＥ体６２ａ。The toner blocking device 60 is for preventing toner from falling when toner is not replenished, and as shown in FIGS.
６２ｂ、カバー６３ａ、６３ｂて構成されている。62b, and covers 63a and 63b.
収容部６１ａ、６１ｂは磁性材からなる断面コ字状の部
材で、それぞれ開口部を対向させてスクリーン部材５６
の下であって、該スクリーン部材５６を挟んで両側に配
置されている。The accommodating parts 61a and 61b are made of magnetic material and have a U-shaped cross section, and have openings facing each other and are connected to the screen member 56.
They are arranged below the screen member 56 and on both sides with the screen member 56 in between.
磁石体６２ａ、６２ｂは永久磁石で、磁石体６２ａのＮ
極と磁石体６２ｂのＳ極とを対向させ、前記収容部６１
ａ、 ６ ｌ ｂにそれぞれ進退自在としてあり、
図示しない移動装置で互いに接近したり、離反したりす
るようにしである。The magnet bodies 62a and 62b are permanent magnets, and the N of the magnet body 62a is
The pole and the S pole of the magnet body 62b are made to face each other, and the housing part 61
A, 6 l, and b can move forward and backward, respectively.
They are moved toward and away from each other by a moving device (not shown).
カバー６３ａ、６３ｂは非磁性の薄肉部材で構成され、
磁石体５２ａ、６２ｋ）の対向部及びそれらの下面を覆
っている。The covers 63a and 63b are made of non-magnetic thin members,
The opposing portions of the magnet bodies 52a, 62k) and their lower surfaces are covered.
Ｂ、現像動作 現像動作について説明する。B. Developing operation The developing operation will be explained.
現像剤は磁性トナーと磁性キャリアとからなる二成分系
のものが使用され、供給室１１に収容されている。現像
剤は薄膜部材３４の外周部にも磁気吸着させてあり、こ
の現像剤の磁気吸着力により薄膜部材３４の余剰部、す
なわち円筒体３１の周長よりも長い部分を無磁極領域Ｍ
、との対向部に集中させて膨らみ３５を形成し、膨らみ
３５の外周部が感光体１００の外周に接触させである。The developer used is a two-component developer consisting of magnetic toner and magnetic carrier, and is stored in the supply chamber 11 . The developer is also magnetically attracted to the outer periphery of the thin film member 34, and the magnetic attraction force of the developer causes the surplus part of the thin film member 34, that is, the part longer than the circumference of the cylindrical body 31, to become a non-magnetic pole area M.
, the bulge 35 is formed in a concentrated manner at the portion facing the photoreceptor 100, and the outer periphery of the bulge 35 is brought into contact with the outer periphery of the photoreceptor 100.
なお、膨らみ３５の接触幅αは、磁気プラン式現像装置
において現像剤か感光体１００と接触する幅よりも広く
、例えば６〜１２ｍｍ程度に設定される。Note that the contact width α of the bulge 35 is set to be wider than the width at which the developer contacts the photoreceptor 100 in a magnetic plan type developing device, for example, about 6 to 12 mm.
供給室１１の現像剤は、供給羽根１２の回転に基づいて
周囲の掬い板１５で混合され、トナーとキャリアが摩擦
接触して相互に逆の極性に帯電される。また、現像剤は
掬い板１５の搬送作用により、その一部が壁２６を越え
て濃度測定部２０に送られるとともに、掬い板１５に掬
われた現像剤は供給領域Ｐで薄膜部材３４の外周部に供
給される。なお、掬い板１５に掬われた現像剤は、隔壁
４１の下に設けたブラシからなる規制部材４９で規制さ
れ、供給量が一定に調整される。したがって、落下路４
５より供給された比較的トナー濃度の高い現像剤が掬い
１ｆｌＳ上の現像剤に降りかかっても、この高濃度現像
剤は規制部材４９で掻き取られ、そのまま供給領域Ｐへ
送り込まれることはない。The developer in the supply chamber 11 is mixed by the surrounding scooping plate 15 based on the rotation of the supply blade 12, and the toner and carrier come into frictional contact and are charged to opposite polarities. Further, due to the conveying action of the scooping plate 15, a part of the developer is sent over the wall 26 to the concentration measuring section 20, and the developer scooped by the scooping plate 15 is transferred to the outer periphery of the thin film member 34 in the supply area P. supplied to the department. Note that the developer scooped by the scooping plate 15 is regulated by a regulating member 49 formed of a brush provided under the partition wall 41, and the supply amount is adjusted to be constant. Therefore, the fall path 4
Even if the developer with a relatively high toner concentration supplied from 5 falls on the developer above 1flS, this high concentration developer is scraped off by the regulating member 49 and is not sent to the supply area P as it is. .
’ｔ！４度測定部２０に送られた現像剤は、搬送羽根２
２の回転により羽根２５でそれぞれ中央に向けて搬送さ
れ、そして中央で合流して混合され、掬い板２４に掬わ
れて供給室１１に送り戻される。't! The developer sent to the 4-degree measuring section 20 is transferred to the conveying blade 2
2, they are each conveyed toward the center by the blades 25, merged at the center, mixed, scooped by the scooping plate 24, and sent back to the supply chamber 11.
供給室１１に送り戻された現像剤は供給羽根１２の混合
撹拌作用によって左右に分散していく。なお、第２図に
示すように、供給羽根１２の中央に二つの羽根１６．１
６を設け、軸１３に対するそれぞれの角度を逆に設定す
ると、搬送路２１から送り戻されてきた現像剤が積極的
に左右に分配されるとともに、搬送路２１の左側から送
り戻された現像剤の一部が供給室１１の右側に、また搬
送路２１の右側から送り戻された現像剤の一部が供給室
１１の左側に搬送されることにより左右の現像剤が混合
され、左側又は右側の現像剤だけのトナー濃度（キャリ
アに対するトナーの重量混合比）が低下するという不都
合がない。The developer sent back to the supply chamber 11 is dispersed left and right by the mixing and stirring action of the supply blades 12. In addition, as shown in FIG. 2, two blades 16.1 are provided at the center of the supply blade 12.
6 and set their respective angles with respect to the shaft 13 to be opposite, the developer sent back from the conveyance path 21 is actively distributed to the left and right, and the developer sent back from the left side of the conveyance path 21 is A part of the developer sent back from the right side of the conveyance path 21 is conveyed to the left side of the supply chamber 11, so that the left and right developers are mixed, and the developer is mixed with the left side or the right side. There is no inconvenience that the toner concentration (weight mixing ratio of toner to carrier) of only the developer decreases.
また、現像剤のトナー濃度は中央のトナー濃度検出セン
サ２８で測定される。ここで測定されるトナー濃度は、
左右の羽根で送られた現像剤を混合したものに関するも
のであるから、検出値か平均的なものとなり、局部的な
トナー濃度の低下によって検出値か大きく変動すること
かない。したかって、安定したトナー濃度管理か可能と
なる。Further, the toner concentration of the developer is measured by a toner concentration detection sensor 28 located at the center. The toner concentration measured here is
Since this relates to a mixture of the developer sent by the left and right blades, the detected value is an average value, and the detected value does not vary greatly due to a local decrease in toner concentration. Therefore, stable toner concentration management becomes possible.
一方、供給領域Ｐで薄膜部材３４の外周部に保持された
現像剤は、磁石体３３の磁気吸引力に基づいて保持され
、円筒体３１の回転により矢印Ｃ方向に搬送され、規制
部材３６に規制される。On the other hand, the developer held on the outer periphery of the thin film member 34 in the supply area P is held based on the magnetic attraction force of the magnet 33, is conveyed in the direction of arrow C by the rotation of the cylindrical body 31, and is transferred to the regulating member 36. Regulated.
規制部材３６に規制された現像剤は、通路４３を通り回
収部４０に回収される。したがって、規制部材３６の手
前で現像剤がいつまでも滞留しストレスを受けることが
なく、現像剤の劣化が軽減される。The developer regulated by the regulating member 36 passes through the passage 43 and is collected by the collecting section 40 . Therefore, the developer does not remain indefinitely in front of the regulating member 36 and is not subjected to stress, and deterioration of the developer is reduced.
規制部材３６の先端を通過した現像剤は、第３図に示す
ように、磁極Ｎ、、Ｓ、、Ｎ、の対向部を磁気ブラシ状
態で搬送される。また、現像剤は磁極Ｎ、の対回部を通
過すると、無磁極領域Ｍ１の対回部で磁極の拘束力から
解放されて搬送方向に塊となって飛翔していく。この飛
翔した現像剤は、均し部材３７に衝突して一定の層厚（
ギャップＤ Ｂ２に相当）に均され、薄膜部材３４に保
持されて矢印Ｃ方向に搬送され、薄膜部材３４と感光体
１００との接触領域Ｘに送り込まれる。The developer that has passed through the tip of the regulating member 36 is conveyed in the state of a magnetic brush through the opposing portions of the magnetic poles N, , S, , N, as shown in FIG. Further, when the developer passes through the rotating portion of the magnetic pole N, it is released from the restraining force of the magnetic pole at the rotating portion of the non-magnetic pole area M1, and flies in the transport direction in the form of a lump. This flying developer collides with the leveling member 37 and has a certain layer thickness (
(corresponding to the gap D B2), is held by the thin film member 34 and conveyed in the direction of arrow C, and sent into the contact area X between the thin film member 34 and the photoreceptor 100.
前記接触領域Ｘを搬送される現像剤は、薄膜部材３４の
接触圧により矢印１方同から移動してくる感光体１００
の表面に押圧され、感光体１００の表面に静電潜像が形
成されていれば、該静電潜像の表面電位と円筒体３１か
ら薄膜部材３４に伝わる現像バイアス電圧ＶＢとの電位
差に基つき、静電潜像画像部にトナーが静電的に付着す
る。The developer conveyed through the contact area
If an electrostatic latent image is formed on the surface of the photoreceptor 100, the electrostatic latent image is pressed against the surface of the photoreceptor 100, and the potential difference between the surface potential of the electrostatic latent image and the developing bias voltage VB transmitted from the cylindrical body 31 to the thin film member 34 is applied. As a result, toner electrostatically adheres to the electrostatic latent image area.
薄膜部材３４と感光体１００との間に相対的な速度差が
ある場合、これらの接触領域Ｘを搬送される現像剤はせ
ん新作用を受ける。このため、現像によってトナーを失
ったキャリアと、依然トナーを保持しているキャリアと
が混合され、トナーを失ったキャリアが継続的に感光体
と接触することはない。したがって、感光体１００の静
電潜像に付着したトナーか、トナーを失ったキャリアに
奪われることかなく、静電潜像にはほぼ−様な窓度てト
ナーか付着し、フラットな画像（二ノンたけが強調され
ていない画像）か得られる。When there is a relative speed difference between the thin film member 34 and the photoreceptor 100, the developer transported through the contact area X is subjected to an oxidation effect. Therefore, the carrier that has lost toner due to development is mixed with the carrier that still retains toner, and the carrier that has lost toner does not come into continuous contact with the photoreceptor. Therefore, the toner attached to the electrostatic latent image on the photoreceptor 100 is not taken away by the carrier that has lost the toner, and the toner adheres to the electrostatic latent image with an almost -like window, resulting in a flat image ( An image in which Ninontake is not emphasized) is obtained.
接触領域Ｘを通過した現像剤は、磁極へ、の磁気拘束力
を受け、再ひ磁気ブラフ状態て薄膜部材３４に保持され
、矢印Ｃ方向に搬送される。そして、磁極Ｎ、とＮ４と
の門の無磁極領域Ｍ、て磁極の拘束力から解放されて供
給室１１に落下する。The developer that has passed through the contact area X is subjected to a magnetic binding force from the magnetic poles, is held by the thin film member 34 in a magnetic bluff state, and is conveyed in the direction of arrow C. Then, in the non-magnetic pole region M of the gate between the magnetic poles N and N4, it is released from the restraining force of the magnetic poles and falls into the supply chamber 11.
規制部材３６に規制されて回収部４０に回収された現像
剤は、送り羽根４７．４８の回転に基づいて空室４６を
後方に搬送され、落下路４５を通じて供給室１１に供給
される。The developer regulated by the regulating member 36 and collected in the collecting section 40 is conveyed backward through the empty chamber 46 based on the rotation of the feeding blades 47 and 48, and is supplied to the supply chamber 11 through the falling path 45.
トナー濃度検出センサ２８の出力によって現像剤のトナ
ー濃度か所定の基準値よりも低いと判定された場合、ト
ナー補給部５０の羽根５２． ５３がそれぞれ回転し、
収容室５Ｉのトナーを補給室５４に送り込む。When it is determined that the toner concentration of the developer is lower than a predetermined reference value based on the output of the toner concentration detection sensor 28, the blades 52. 53 each rotate,
The toner in the storage chamber 5I is sent to the supply chamber 54.
補給室５４に供給されたトナーは、プランロール５５に
保持されて矢印り方向に搬送され、スフノーン部材５６
の上面に落下し、プランロール５５の回転に基づいてス
クリーン部材５６の開孔部を通過してその下方に落下す
る。The toner supplied to the replenishment chamber 54 is held by a plan roll 55 and conveyed in the direction of the arrow.
Based on the rotation of the plan roll 55, it passes through the opening of the screen member 56 and falls below it.
トナー遮断装置６ｏでは、第５図に示すように、図示し
ない移動手段によって磁石体６２ａ、６２ｂがそれ−ぞ
れ収容部６１ａ、６１ｂの内部にＪＰ避する。In the toner cutoff device 6o, as shown in FIG. 5, the magnet bodies 62a and 62b are moved into the accommodating portions 61a and 61b, respectively, by a moving means (not shown).
これにより、それぞれの磁石体６２ａ、６２ｂから発す
る磁力線は収容部６１８．６１ｂにそれぞれ収束し、両
磁石体６２ａ、６２ｂの相互作用に基づく磁界がこれら
の間に形成されることはない。As a result, the lines of magnetic force emitted from the respective magnet bodies 62a and 62b converge on the housing portions 618 and 61b, and a magnetic field based on the interaction between the two magnet bodies 62a and 62b is not formed between them.
したがって、ブラシロール５５の回転に基づいてスクリ
ーン部材５６を通過したトナーは磁石体６２ａ、６２ｂ
の間を分散状態で落下し、空室４６の現像剤に混入され
、これら現像剤と混合されることにより素早く荷電され
る。このため、未帯電のトナーが現像に供されることが
なく、トナー粉煙の発生、画像上のかぶりなどが但減さ
れる。Therefore, the toner that has passed through the screen member 56 based on the rotation of the brush roll 55 is transferred to the magnets 62a and 62b.
The particles fall in a dispersed state between the particles and are mixed with the developer in the empty chamber 46, and are quickly charged by being mixed with the developer. Therefore, uncharged toner is not subjected to development, and the generation of toner powder smoke and fogging on images are reduced.
プランロール５５の回転が停止してトナーの補給か終了
すると、磁石体６２ａ、６２ｂは、図示しない移動装置
によってそれぞれ対向方向に移動して収容部６１３．６
１ｂから進出し、両者の対向間隔を狭める。その結果、
第６図に示すように、磁石体６２ａと６２ｂとの間に磁
界Φか形成される。したかつて、複写機等の振動や外的
な振動によってトナー補給装置５０か振動し、スクリー
ン部材５６の開孔部よりトナーか落下しても、このトナ
ーは磁性であるが故に前記磁界Φに拘束されて保持され
る。When the rotation of the plan roll 55 is stopped and toner replenishment is completed, the magnet bodies 62a and 62b are moved in opposite directions by a moving device (not shown), and the magnet bodies 62a and 62b are moved to the housing portions 613.
Advance from 1b and narrow the gap between them. the result,
As shown in FIG. 6, a magnetic field Φ is formed between the magnet bodies 62a and 62b. In the past, even if the toner replenishing device 50 vibrates due to the vibrations of a copying machine or other external vibrations, and some toner falls through the opening of the screen member 56, the toner is magnetic and is therefore restrained by the magnetic field Φ. and retained.
これにより、不必要に現像剤にトナーか落下供給される
ことかなく、現像剤のトナーａ度を適正状態に維持する
ことができる。As a result, the toner degree of the developer can be maintained at an appropriate level without the toner being unnecessarily dropped and supplied to the developer.
なお、本実施例では、スクリーン部材５６は非磁性の材
料で構成するものとしたが、磁性材で構成してもよい。Although the screen member 56 is made of a non-magnetic material in this embodiment, it may be made of a magnetic material.
また、磁石体６２ａと６２ｂは、異なる磁極を対向させ
、それらの間に吸引力が働くように磁界を形成するもの
としたが、同じ磁極（Ｓ極とＳ極、Ｎ極とＮ極）を対向
させ、それらの間に反発力が働くように磁界を形成し、
これによってトナーの落下を阻止するようにしてもよい
。In addition, the magnets 62a and 62b have different magnetic poles facing each other to form a magnetic field so that an attractive force acts between them, but the same magnetic poles (S pole and S pole, N pole and N pole) make them face each other and form a magnetic field so that a repulsive force acts between them,
This may prevent the toner from falling.
Ｃ５他の実施例
前記実施例のトナー遮断装置では、スクリーン部材５６
の下に磁界Φを形成し、これに磁性トナーを拘束するも
のとしたか、これに限らず、以下に示す実施例のように
してもよい。C5 Other Embodiments In the toner blocking device of the above embodiment, the screen member 56
A magnetic field Φ is formed under the magnetic field Φ, and the magnetic toner is restrained by this, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the following embodiments may be used.
（第２実施例） 第２実施例を第７，８図に示す。(Second example) A second embodiment is shown in FIGS. 7 and 8.
本実施例のトナー遮断装置７０は、スクリーン部材５６
と磁石体７１とを、それらの間に設けた磁性の中継部材
７２で磁気的に接続、遮断するようにしたものである。The toner blocking device 70 of this embodiment has a screen member 56
and a magnet body 71 are magnetically connected and disconnected by a magnetic relay member 72 provided between them.
このトナー遮断装置７０ては、トナー非補給時、磁石体
７１とスクリーン部材５６との間に中継部材７２が介在
し、磁石体７１とスクリーン部材５６とを磁気的に接続
する。これにより、スクリーン部材５６に磁界が形成さ
れ、この磁界に磁性トナーか拘束される。したがって、
画像形成装置の振動によってもスクリーン部材５６を通
過してトナーが落下することはない。In this toner cutoff device 70, a relay member 72 is interposed between the magnet body 71 and the screen member 56 to magnetically connect the magnet body 71 and the screen member 56 when toner is not replenished. As a result, a magnetic field is formed in the screen member 56, and the magnetic toner is restrained by this magnetic field. therefore,
The toner does not pass through the screen member 56 and fall even due to vibrations of the image forming apparatus.
一方、トナー補給時、中継部材７２が磁石体７１とスク
リーン部材５６との間から退避し、両者を磁気的に遮断
する。これにより、スクリーン部材５６に磁界か無くな
り、トナーかスクリーン部材５６に拘束されることもな
くなる。したかって、プランロール５５の回転に基つい
てトナーはスクリーン部材５６の開孔部を通過してその
下方に落下補給される。On the other hand, when replenishing toner, the relay member 72 is retracted from between the magnet body 71 and the screen member 56, and magnetically blocks the two. As a result, there is no magnetic field in the screen member 56, and the toner is no longer restrained by the screen member 56. Accordingly, as the plan roll 55 rotates, the toner passes through the openings of the screen member 56 and falls downward to be replenished.
（第３実施例） 第３実施例を第９．１０図に示す。(Third example) A third embodiment is shown in Figure 9.10.
本実施例のトナー遮断装置８０では、トナーホッパ８１
の側部に磁石体８２を回転可能に支持し、該磁石体８２
の一方の磁極を磁性材で構成したスクリーン部材５６に
接離するようにしたものである。In the toner cutoff device 80 of this embodiment, the toner hopper 81
A magnet body 82 is rotatably supported on the side of the magnet body 82.
One of the magnetic poles is brought into contact with and separated from a screen member 56 made of a magnetic material.
このトナー遮断装置８０では、トナー非補給時、磁石体
がスクリーン部材５６に接触して磁界を形成し、この磁
界に磁性トナーを拘束して落下を防止する。一方、トナ
ー補給時、磁石体８２とスクリーン部材５６とを離間さ
せてスクリーン部材５６から磁界を消去し、スクリーン
部材５６の開孔部よりトナーを落下補給する。In this toner cutoff device 80, when toner is not replenished, the magnet body contacts the screen member 56 to form a magnetic field, and the magnetic toner is restrained by this magnetic field to prevent it from falling. On the other hand, when toner is replenished, the magnetic body 82 and the screen member 56 are separated to eliminate the magnetic field from the screen member 56, and the toner is dropped and replenished from the opening of the screen member 56.
（第４実施例） 第４実施例を第１１ｉ２図に示す。(Fourth example) A fourth embodiment is shown in FIG. 11i2.
本実施例のトナー遮断装置９０は、スクリーン部材５６
の下方に、該スクリーン部材５６よりも開孔率の大きい
第２のスクリーン部材であるンヤノタ部材９１を設ける
とともに、該ンヤソタ部材９１の両側下方に磁石体９２
ａ、９２ｂを異なる磁極が対向するようにそれぞれ設け
ている。The toner blocking device 90 of this embodiment has a screen member 56
A second screen member 91 having a larger porosity than the screen member 56 is provided below the screen member 56, and magnets 92 are provided below both sides of the screen member 91.
a and 92b are provided so that different magnetic poles face each other.
このトナー遮断装置９０では、トナー非補給時、第１１
図に示すように、磁石体９２ａ、９２ｂが接近し、それ
らの間に磁界Φが形成されて磁性トナーの落下が阻止さ
れる。一方、トナー補給時、第１２図に示すように、磁
石体９２ａ、９２ｂは離間して前記磁界Φが消去する。In this toner cutoff device 90, when toner is not replenished, the 11th
As shown in the figure, the magnets 92a and 92b come close to each other, and a magnetic field Φ is formed between them to prevent the magnetic toner from falling. On the other hand, when replenishing toner, as shown in FIG. 12, the magnets 92a and 92b are separated and the magnetic field Φ is eliminated.
したがって、シャッタ部材９１の開孔部を介してトナー
が落下供給可能となる。Therefore, toner can be dropped and supplied through the opening of the shutter member 91.
（第５実施例） 第５実施例を第１３．１４図に示す。(Fifth example) A fifth embodiment is shown in Figures 13 and 14.
本実施例のトナー遮断装置１００は、前記第４実施例と
同様にンヤ、タ部材＋０１を有するものて、ンヤッタ部
材１０１の両側に磁石体１０２ａ。The toner shutoff device 100 of this embodiment has a nya, ta member +01 as in the fourth embodiment, and magnets 102a are provided on both sides of the nyata member 101.
１０２ｂを設け、これら磁石体１０２ａ、１０２ｂを互
いに接近・離間させてンヤ／り部材１０１に沿って磁界
を形成するようにしたものである。102b is provided, and these magnet bodies 102a and 102b are moved closer to each other and separated from each other to form a magnetic field along the roller member 101.
（第６実施例） 第６実施例を第１５．１６図に示す。(6th example) A sixth embodiment is shown in Figures 15 and 16.
本実施例のトナー遮断装置１１０は、トナー収容部１１
１の磁性トナーを、その底部開口部に設けた溝付きロー
ラ１１２に収容し、その回転にしたがって下方に落下供
給する形態のトナー補給装置に適用したもので、溝付き
ローラ１１２から落下したトナーはスクリーン部材１１
４を通過し、その下方に落下供給される。The toner blocking device 110 of this embodiment has a toner storage section 11.
This is applied to a toner replenishing device in which the magnetic toner of No. 1 is stored in a grooved roller 112 provided at the bottom opening and is supplied falling downward as the roller rotates. Screen member 11
4 and is supplied falling below it.
一方、トナー非補給時、スクリーン部材１１４の画側に
設けた磁石体１１５ａ、１１５ｂが接近し、これらの間
に磁界を形成して磁性トナーの落下を阻止する。On the other hand, when toner is not replenished, the magnets 115a and 115b provided on the image side of the screen member 114 come close to each other, forming a magnetic field between them to prevent the magnetic toner from falling.
（第７実施例） 第７実施例を第１７．１８図に示す。(Seventh Example) A seventh embodiment is shown in Figures 17 and 18.
本実施例のトナー遮断装置１２０は、スクリーン部材５
６の両側下方で磁石体１２１ａ、１２１ｂをそれぞれの
異極を対向させ、これら磁石体１２１ａ、１２１ｂの対
向面に進退するように磁性のシャッタ部材１２２ａ、１
２２ｂを設けたものである。The toner blocking device 120 of this embodiment includes a screen member 5
Magnetic shutter members 122a, 121b are arranged so that their different poles face each other below both sides of 6, and magnetic shutter members 122a, 1
22b is provided.
このトナー遮断装置１２０では、トナー［給１、シャッ
タ部材１２２ａ、１２２ｂが磁石体１２１ａ、１２１ｂ
の間に形成される磁界を遮断する。In this toner cutoff device 120, toner [supply 1, shutter members 122a and 122b are connected to magnet bodies 121a and 121b]
It blocks the magnetic field formed between the two.
したがって、スクリーン部材５６の開孔部を介してその
下方に磁性トナーが落下補給される。Therefore, magnetic toner is replenished downward through the openings of the screen member 56.
一方、トナー非補給時、シャッタ部材１２２ａ。On the other hand, when toner is not replenished, the shutter member 122a.
１２２ｂが磁石体１２１ａ、１２１ｂの間から退避する
と、これらの相互間に形成される磁界によって磁性トナ
ーが拘束されてトナーの落下補給が阻止される。When the magnetic toner 122b retreats from between the magnets 121a and 121b, the magnetic toner is restrained by the magnetic field formed between the magnets 121a and 121b, thereby preventing the toner from falling and replenishing.
（第８実施例） 第８実施例を第１９．２０図に示す。(Eighth example) The eighth embodiment is shown in Figures 19 and 20.
本実施例のトナー遮断装置１３０は、スクリーン部材５
６ａの両側に磁石体１３１ａ、１３１ｂをそれぞれ移動
可能に設けている。トナーとキャＪアからなる現像剤は
送り羽根４８て絶えずスフ’Ｊ −ン部材５６へ掬い上
げられるようになっており、スクリーン部材５６から落
下してくるトナーと混合され易くなっている。The toner blocking device 130 of this embodiment has a screen member 5
Magnet bodies 131a and 131b are movably provided on both sides of 6a. The developer consisting of toner and carrier is constantly scooped up to the screen member 56 by the feed blade 48, and is easily mixed with the toner falling from the screen member 56.
このトナー補給装置１３０ては、トナー補給時、磁石体
１３１ａ、１３１ｂがスフｌノーン部材５６から退避し
ている。このため、スクリーン部材５６には磁界が発生
せずミ送り羽根４８で掬い上げられた現像剤は、スクリ
ーン部材５６を通って落下してくるトナーと混合され、
送り羽根４８へ落下する。In this toner replenishing device 130, the magnet bodies 131a and 131b are retracted from the flow head member 56 during toner replenishment. Therefore, no magnetic field is generated in the screen member 56, and the developer scooped up by the feed blade 48 is mixed with the toner falling through the screen member 56.
It falls onto the feed blade 48.
一方、トナー非補給時、磁石１３１ａ、１３１ｂがスク
リーン部材５６に接近し、スクリーン部材上に磁界を形
成する。スクリーン部材５６に磁界が形成されると、こ
の磁界に送り羽根４８で掬い上げられた現像剤が拘束さ
れ、磁石１３１ａ、１３１ｂの間に現像剤の壁を形成す
る。また、この壁により、スクリーン部材５６を通過し
ようとするトナーは落下が阻止される。On the other hand, when toner is not replenished, the magnets 131a and 131b approach the screen member 56 and form a magnetic field on the screen member. When a magnetic field is formed in the screen member 56, the developer scooped up by the feed blade 48 is restrained by this magnetic field, and a wall of the developer is formed between the magnets 131a and 131b. Further, this wall prevents toner from falling when trying to pass through the screen member 56.
（第９実施例） 第９実施例を第２１．２２図に示す。(9th example) A ninth embodiment is shown in Figures 21 and 22.
本実施例のトナー遮断装置１４０は、スクリーン部材５
６の下方に該スクリーン部材５６よりも開孔率の大きい
第２のスクリーン部材であるシャッタ部材１０１を設け
るとともに、該／セフ２部材１０１の両側に磁石体１４
１ａ、１４１ｂを異なる磁極が対向するようにそれぞれ
設けている。The toner blocking device 140 of this embodiment includes a screen member 5
A shutter member 101, which is a second screen member having a larger aperture ratio than the screen member 56, is provided below the screen member 56, and magnets 14 are provided on both sides of the second screen member 101.
1a and 141b are provided so that different magnetic poles face each other.
このトナー遮断装置１４０では、トナー非補給時、第２
２図に示すように、磁石体１４１ａ、１４１ｂが接近し
、それらの間に磁界Φが形成される。送り羽根４８で掬
い上げられたキャリア若しくは現像剤等の磁性粉は、前
記磁界Φによりンヤッタ部材１０１に拘束される。送り
羽根４８によって磁性粉が順次掬い上げられるため、や
がてシャ。In this toner cutoff device 140, when toner is not replenished, the second
As shown in FIG. 2, the magnet bodies 141a and 141b approach each other, and a magnetic field Φ is formed between them. Magnetic powder such as carrier or developer scooped up by the feed blade 48 is restrained by the Nyatta member 101 by the magnetic field Φ. As the magnetic powder is scooped up one by one by the feeding blade 48, it eventually becomes shattered.
夕部材１０１の全面に亘って磁性粉が拘束される。The magnetic powder is restrained over the entire surface of the cover member 101.
このようになると、スクリーン部材５６から落下してき
たトナーは、ンヤ、タ部材１０１を通過てきなくなる。In this case, the toner that has fallen from the screen member 56 will no longer pass through the rear member 101.
（第１０実施例） 第１０実施例を第２３．２４図に示す。(10th example) A tenth embodiment is shown in Figures 23 and 24.
本実施例のトナー遮断装置１５０は、スクリーン部材５
６の両側下方に磁石体１５１ａ、１５１ｂをそれぞれ回
動可能に設け、これら磁石体１５１ａ、１５１ｂの磁極
部分にキャリア又はこれにトナーを加えた現像剤等の磁
性粉１５２ａ、１５２ｂをそれぞれ保持している。The toner blocking device 150 of this embodiment has a screen member 5
Magnets 151a and 151b are rotatably provided below both sides of the magnet 6, and magnetic powders 152a and 152b, such as a carrier or a developer with toner added thereto, are held in the magnetic pole portions of these magnets 151a and 151b, respectively. There is.
このトナー遮断装置１５０によれば、トナー補給時、磁
性粉１５２ａ、１５２ｂを保持した磁石体１５１ａ、１
５１ｂは共にその磁極を上下方向に向けられる。したが
って、磁石体１５１ａと１５１ｂとの間に磁界は形成さ
れず、トナーはスクリーン部材５６を通過してその下方
に落下が許容される。According to this toner cutoff device 150, when replenishing toner, the magnet bodies 151a and 1 holding the magnetic powders 152a and 152b are
51b both have their magnetic poles directed in the vertical direction. Therefore, no magnetic field is formed between the magnet bodies 151a and 151b, and the toner is allowed to pass through the screen member 56 and fall below it.
一方、トナー非補給時、磁石体１５１ａ、１５１ｂが回
転し、磁性粉１５２ａ、１５２ｂを保持した磁極が対向
し、これら磁石体１５１ａ、１５１ｂの間に前記磁性粉
１５２ａ、１５２ｂを連ねる。これにより、スクリーン
部材５６の下には磁性粉１５２ａ、１５２ｂによる／ヤ
ノタか形成され、スクリーン部材５６を通過するトナー
の落下が阻止される。On the other hand, when toner is not replenished, the magnets 151a and 151b rotate, and the magnetic poles holding the magnetic powders 152a and 152b face each other, and the magnetic powders 152a and 152b are arranged between the magnets 151a and 151b. As a result, magnetic particles 152a and 152b are formed under the screen member 56, and toner particles passing through the screen member 56 are prevented from falling.
また、トナー非補給時、磁石１５１ａ、１５１ｂに保持
された磁性粉１５２ａ、１５２ｂかスクリーン部材５６
の下面に接触するようにしておけば、トナー補給時、磁
石体１５１ａ、１５１ｂの移動に伴って磁性粉１５２ａ
、１５２ｂが移動する際に、スクリーン部材５６の下面
に付着したトナーを掻き取ることができ、これによって
スクリーン部材５６のトナーの目詰まりを防止すること
が可能となる。In addition, when toner is not replenished, the magnetic powder 152a, 152b held by the magnets 151a, 151b or the screen member 56
If the lower surface is in contact with the magnetic powder 152a, the magnetic powder 152a will move as the magnets 151a and 151b move during toner replenishment.
, 152b can scrape off toner adhering to the lower surface of the screen member 56, thereby making it possible to prevent the screen member 56 from being clogged with toner.
なお、以上の実施例では、磁石体に永久磁石を使用した
場合について示したが、磁石体に電磁石を使用するよう
にしてもよい。In the above embodiments, a permanent magnet is used as the magnet body, but an electromagnet may be used as the magnet body.
電磁石を使用した場合、永久磁石を移動させる機械的構
成が不要になるとともに、電磁石のコイルに印加される
電流、電圧を調整することによってスクリーン部材又は
その下方に形成する磁界の強さ方向を任意に調節するこ
とかでき、これによりスクリーン部材で磁石粉を振動さ
せて、スクリーン部材のクリーニング効果、スクリーン
部材での帯電量立ち上げ等を行うことかできる。また、
トナー補給部５０が現像装置ｌから着脱可能な場合、本
発明は特にその効果を発揮する。When an electromagnet is used, there is no need for a mechanical structure to move the permanent magnet, and by adjusting the current and voltage applied to the electromagnet's coil, the direction of the strength of the magnetic field formed on the screen member or below it can be adjusted in any direction. This allows the screen member to vibrate the magnetic powder, thereby achieving a cleaning effect on the screen member, increasing the amount of charge on the screen member, etc. Also,
The present invention is particularly effective when the toner replenishing section 50 is removable from the developing device 1.
以上の説明で明らかなように、本発明にかかるトナー補
給方法及びその装置によれば、スクリーン部材を介して
トナーを落下補給するものにおいて、トナー非補給時、
スクリーン部材及びその下方領域、またはスクリーン部
材またはその下方領域にトナーの落下を阻止する磁気力
に基づくトナー遮断壁を形成してスクリーン部材を通過
してトナーが現像部等に落下しないようにしている。As is clear from the above description, according to the toner replenishment method and device according to the present invention, in a method that replenishes toner by dropping through a screen member, when toner is not replenished,
A toner blocking wall based on magnetic force is formed on the screen member and its lower region, or on the screen member or its lower region to prevent the toner from passing through the screen member and falling into the developing section, etc. .
したがって、画像形成装置の駆動に伴う振動や外的な振
動によっても、スクリーン部材を介して現像剤にトナー
が落下補給されることはない。Therefore, toner will not fall and be replenished onto the developer via the screen member even due to vibrations caused by driving the image forming apparatus or external vibrations.
このため、現像剤のトナー濃度が適正に維持されるとと
もに、トナーの補給過剰によるトナー粉煙の発生か防止
され、機械内部が清潔に維持され、地肌かふり等のない
良質の画像を得ることかてき′００For this reason, the toner density of the developer is maintained appropriately, the generation of toner powder smoke due to excessive toner supply is prevented, the inside of the machine is kept clean, and high-quality images without background or flaking can be obtained. Kate'00
第１図は現像装置の断面図、第２図は供給部と濃度測定
部における現像剤の流れを示す図、第３図は現像部の部
分断面図、第４図はトナー遮断装置の斜視図、第５，６
図は第４図のトナー遮断装置の動作説明図である。第７
図から第２０図はトナー遮断装置の他の実施例を示し、
第７，８図は第２実施例の断面図、第９，１０図は第３
実施例の斜視図、第１１１２図は第４実施例の断面図、
第１３．１４図は第５実施例の断面図、第１５１６図は
第６実施例の断面図、第１７．１８図は第７実施例の断
面図、第１９．２０図は第８実施例の断面図、第２１．
２２図は第９実施例の断面図、第２３．２４図は第１０
実施例の断面図である。
■・・現像装置、 ５０・・・トナー補給部、５６・・
・スクリーン部材、６０・・トナー遮断装置、６２ａ、
６２ｂ・・磁石体、Φ・磁界。
特許出願人 ミノルタカメラ株式会社
代理人 弁理士 青白 葆 ほか１名
第９
／′−
＼
第１０［図
第１９図
第１３１１
第１５１・、１
ｂ
第１７１１
２４２０図
ヱｉ’；１４
第１６１１
コ０
つ０
第２
図
第２２図
第２３１４
第２４１’＝、１Fig. 1 is a sectional view of the developing device, Fig. 2 is a diagram showing the flow of developer in the supply section and concentration measuring section, Fig. 3 is a partial sectional view of the developing section, and Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the toner blocking device. , 5th and 6th
This figure is an explanatory diagram of the operation of the toner cutoff device shown in FIG. 4. 7th
Figures 20 to 20 show other embodiments of the toner blocking device,
Figures 7 and 8 are cross-sectional views of the second embodiment, and Figures 9 and 10 are cross-sectional views of the third embodiment.
A perspective view of the embodiment, FIG. 1112 is a sectional view of the fourth embodiment,
Figures 13 and 14 are cross-sectional views of the fifth embodiment, Figures 1516 and 1516 are cross-sectional views of the sixth embodiment, Figures 17 and 18 are cross-sectional views of the seventh embodiment, and Figures 19 and 20 are the eighth embodiment. Cross-sectional view of 21st.
Figure 22 is a sectional view of the ninth embodiment, Figures 23 and 24 are the tenth embodiment.
It is a sectional view of an example. ■...Developing device, 50...Toner supply section, 56...
- Screen member, 60... Toner blocking device, 62a,
62b...Magnet body, Φ・Magnetic field. Patent Applicant Minolta Camera Co., Ltd. Agent Patent Attorney Aohaku Ao and 1 other person No. 9 /'- ＼ No. 10 [Fig. 20 Figure 22 Figure 2314 241'=, 1
Claims (15)
ナー補給方法において、トナー非補給時、前記トナーが
落下するときに通過する領域に磁気力に基づくトナー遮
断壁を形成することを特徴とするトナー補給方法。(1) A toner replenishment method in which toner is replenished by falling through a screen member, characterized in that a toner blocking wall based on magnetic force is formed in a region through which the toner falls when toner is not replenished. How to replenish.
壁を磁界で形成することを特徴とする請求項１のトナー
補給方法。(2) The toner replenishing method according to claim 1, wherein a magnetic toner is used as the toner, and the toner blocking wall is formed by a magnetic field.
性粉で形成することを特徴とする請求項１のトナー補給
方法。(3) The toner replenishing method according to claim 1, wherein the toner blocking wall is formed of a magnetic field and magnetic powder bound by the magnetic field.
ーン部材の下方領域の少なくともいずれか一方に設ける
ことを特徴とする請求項１、２、３のいずれかに記載の
トナー補給方法。(4) The toner replenishing method according to claim 1, wherein the toner blocking wall is provided on at least one of a screen member and a region below the screen member.
るトナーと、前記スクリーン部材を介して前記トナーを
落下補給する補給手段と、トナー非補給時、前記トナー
が落下するときに通過する領域に磁気力に基づくトナー
遮断壁を形成する遮断壁形成手段と、からなることを特
徴とするトナー補給装置。(5) A screen member, a toner located on the screen member, a replenishing means for replenishing the toner by falling through the screen member, and a magnetic field in an area through which the toner falls when the toner is not replenished. A toner replenishing device comprising: blocking wall forming means for forming a toner blocking wall based on force.
壁を磁界で形成したことを特徴とする請求項５に記載の
トナー補給装置。(6) The toner replenishing device according to claim 5, wherein a magnetic toner is used as the toner, and the toner blocking wall is formed by a magnetic field.
性粉で形成したことを特徴とする請求項５に記載のトナ
ー補給装置。(7) The toner replenishing device according to claim 5, wherein the toner blocking wall is formed of a magnetic field and magnetic powder bound by the magnetic field.
下方領域の少なくともいずれか一方に設けたことを特徴
とする請求項５、６、７のいずれかに記載のトナー補給
装置。(8) The toner replenishing device according to any one of claims 5, 6, and 7, wherein the toner blocking wall is provided on at least one of the screen member and a region below the screen member.
送手段を設けたことを特徴とする請求項５、６、７、８
のいずれかに記載のトナー補給装置。(9) Claims 5, 6, 7, and 8, characterized in that a conveyance means for conveying the magnetic powder is provided near the screen member.
The toner replenishing device according to any one of the above.
部材上に位置するトナーと、前記第１のスクリーン部材
を介して前記トナーを落下補給する補給手段と、前記第
１のスクリーン部材の下方に位置し、第１のスクリーン
部材よりも開孔率の大きい第２のスクリーン部材と、ト
ナー非補給時、前記トナーが落下するときに通過する領
域に磁気力に基づくトナー遮断壁を形成するトナー遮断
壁形成手段と、からなることを特徴とするトナー補給装
置。(10) a first screen member, toner located on the first screen member, replenishment means for dropping and replenishing the toner via the first screen member, and a portion below the first screen member; a second screen member having a larger pore area than the first screen member, and a toner forming a toner blocking wall based on magnetic force in a region through which the toner falls when toner is not replenished. A toner replenishing device comprising: a blocking wall forming means.
断壁を磁界で形成したことを特徴とする請求項１０に記
載のトナー補給装置。(11) The toner replenishing device according to claim 10, wherein a magnetic toner is used as the toner, and the toner blocking wall is formed by a magnetic field.
磁性粉で形成したことを特徴とする請求項１０に記載の
トナー補給装置。(12) The toner replenishing device according to claim 10, wherein the toner blocking wall is formed of a magnetic field and magnetic powder bound by the magnetic field.
該第２のスクリーン部材の下方領域の少なくともいずれ
か一方に設けることを特徴とする請求項１０、１１、１
２のいずれかに記載のトナー補給装置。(13) The toner blocking wall is a second screen member,
Claims 10, 11, 1, characterized in that it is provided in at least one of the lower regions of the second screen member.
2. The toner replenishing device according to any one of 2.
送する搬送手段を設けたことを特徴とする請求項１０、
１１、１２、１３のいずれかに記載のトナー補給装置。(14) Claim 10, characterized in that a conveying means for conveying the magnetic powder is provided near the second screen member.
14. The toner replenishing device according to any one of 11, 12, and 13.
するトナーと、前記スクリーン部材を介して前記トナー
を落下補給する補給手段と、前記スクリーン部材の下方
でその両側に位置する磁界形成手段と、該磁界形成手段
に保持された磁性粉と、トナー非補給時は前記磁界形成
手段に保持されている磁性粉を連ねてトナー遮断壁を形
成し、トナー補給時は前記トナー遮断壁を解除する開閉
手段と、からなることを特徴とするトナー補給装置。(15) a screen member, toner located on the screen member, replenishment means for dropping and replenishing the toner via the screen member, magnetic field forming means located below and on both sides of the screen member; opening/closing means for connecting the magnetic powder held by the magnetic field forming means and the magnetic powder held by the magnetic field forming means when toner is not being replenished to form a toner blocking wall, and releasing the toner blocking wall when toner is being replenished; A toner replenishing device comprising:
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| JP2176622A JPH0463378A (en) | 1990-07-03 | 1990-07-03 | Method and device for toner replenishment |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| JP2176622A JPH0463378A (en) | 1990-07-03 | 1990-07-03 | Method and device for toner replenishment |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| JPH0463378A true JPH0463378A (en) | 1992-02-28 |
Family
ID=16016799
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| JP2176622A Pending JPH0463378A (en) | 1990-07-03 | 1990-07-03 | Method and device for toner replenishment |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| JP (1) | JPH0463378A (en) |
Cited By (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5582450A (en) * | 1993-08-31 | 1996-12-10 | Smc Kabushiki Kaisha | Suction pad, rotation-stop and guide mechanism for the same |
| US20090196659A1 (en) * | 2008-02-05 | 2009-08-06 | Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Image Forming Apparatus and Developing Apparatus |
| JP2010066394A (en) * | 2008-09-09 | 2010-03-25 | Sharp Corp | Developing device, image forming apparatus using the same, and method for controlling toner supply |
| US20140086638A1 (en) * | 2012-09-26 | 2014-03-27 | Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Developing Device |
-
1990
- 1990-07-03 JP JP2176622A patent/JPH0463378A/en active Pending
Cited By (10)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5582450A (en) * | 1993-08-31 | 1996-12-10 | Smc Kabushiki Kaisha | Suction pad, rotation-stop and guide mechanism for the same |
| US5707093A (en) * | 1993-08-31 | 1998-01-13 | Smc Kabushiki Kaisha | Suction pad, rotation--stop and guide mechanism for the same |
| US5904387A (en) * | 1993-08-31 | 1999-05-18 | Smc Kabushiki Kaisha | Suction pad, rotation-stop and guide mechanism for the same |
| US20090196659A1 (en) * | 2008-02-05 | 2009-08-06 | Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Image Forming Apparatus and Developing Apparatus |
| US8437667B2 (en) * | 2008-02-05 | 2013-05-07 | Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Developing apparatus capable of stirring old and new developer and image forming apparatus having the developing apparatus |
| JP2010066394A (en) * | 2008-09-09 | 2010-03-25 | Sharp Corp | Developing device, image forming apparatus using the same, and method for controlling toner supply |
| US8331828B2 (en) | 2008-09-09 | 2012-12-11 | Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha | Image forming apparatus including a developing device with toner supply passage having a magnetic field formed inside and toner supply control method using the same |
| US20140086638A1 (en) * | 2012-09-26 | 2014-03-27 | Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Developing Device |
| JP2014066844A (en) * | 2012-09-26 | 2014-04-17 | Brother Ind Ltd | Developing unit |
| US9354544B2 (en) * | 2012-09-26 | 2016-05-31 | Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Developing device |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| US5734957A (en) | Image forming apparatus with toner re-use feature | |
| JP3914755B2 (en) | Developing device and image forming apparatus | |
| JPH09114243A (en) | Developing device | |
| JPH0463378A (en) | Method and device for toner replenishment | |
| US4819027A (en) | Developing apparatus | |
| JP3441619B2 (en) | Developing device | |
| JPS6232465B2 (en) | ||
| JP7358203B2 (en) | developing device | |
| JP2998461B2 (en) | Developing device | |
| JPH0359581A (en) | Developing device | |
| JP2682988B2 (en) | Developing device | |
| JPH04198972A (en) | Developing device | |
| JP2961809B2 (en) | Developer supply device | |
| JPH066355Y2 (en) | Process cartridge | |
| JP2004037997A (en) | Developing device and image forming apparatus | |
| JPH05127530A (en) | Developing device for image forming device | |
| JPH09197823A (en) | Developing device, image forming device and process cartridge | |
| JPH04107485A (en) | Developing device | |
| JPH0468373A (en) | Developing device | |
| JPH0463380A (en) | Developing device | |
| JPH04330475A (en) | Developing device | |
| JPH05127528A (en) | Developing device for image forming device | |
| JPS6232301Y2 (en) | ||
| JPH0466979A (en) | Developing device | |
| JPH0415672A (en) | Developer replenishing device |