JPS63146072A - Developing device - Google Patents
Developing deviceInfo
- Publication number
- JPS63146072A JPS63146072A JP61293637A JP29363786A JPS63146072A JP S63146072 A JPS63146072 A JP S63146072A JP 61293637 A JP61293637 A JP 61293637A JP 29363786 A JP29363786 A JP 29363786A JP S63146072 A JPS63146072 A JP S63146072A
- Authority
- JP
- Japan
- Prior art keywords
- developer
- toner
- conveying
- downstream side
- screw
- 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
- 238000003756 stirring Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 16
- 239000006249 magnetic particle Substances 0.000 claims description 14
- 230000007423 decrease Effects 0.000 abstract description 6
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 description 39
- 238000001514 detection method Methods 0.000 description 21
- 230000001105 regulatory effect Effects 0.000 description 10
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 5
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 5
- 238000013019 agitation Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000006866 deterioration Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000009826 distribution Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000033001 locomotion Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000000696 magnetic material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000014759 maintenance of location Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000005192 partition Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000033228 biological regulation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000003989 dielectric material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000005684 electric field Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000005484 gravity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003287 optical effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000035699 permeability Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000004043 responsiveness Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000001179 sorption measurement Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000087 stabilizing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Landscapes
- Dry Development In Electrophotography (AREA)
Abstract
Description
【発明の詳細な説明】
イ１発発明目的
〔産業上の利用分野〕
本発明は、電子写真装置・静電記録装置等の画像形成装
置に具備させる乾式現像装置に関する。DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION A.1 Objective of the Invention [Field of Industrial Application] The present invention relates to a dry developing device that is included in an image forming apparatus such as an electrophotographic device or an electrostatic recording device.
更に詳しくは、現像装置内における現像剤の撹拌・搬送
・循環・トナー濃度検知の関連構成に関するものである
。More specifically, the present invention relates to configurations related to agitation, transportation, circulation, and toner concentration detection of the developer in the developing device.
潜像保持体に静電潜像・電位潜像等の潜像を形成し、そ
の潜像を現像して直接式に、或いは間接式（転写式）に
画像形成物を得る装置は各種の原理・方式のものが提案
されている。Devices that form a latent image such as an electrostatic latent image or a potential latent image on a latent image holder and develop the latent image to obtain an image formed directly or indirectly (transfer method) are based on various principles. - A method has been proposed.
本発明はそのうちの特にトナーと磁性粒子とを４１する
現像剤を現像剤担持部材に担持させ、その担持現像剤で
潜像保持体面を現像する現像装置に関する。In particular, the present invention relates to a developing device in which a developer containing toner and magnetic particles is carried on a developer carrying member, and the surface of a latent image carrier is developed with the carried developer.
トナーと磁性粒子を有する現像剤を用いる方式の現像装
置の場合は、現像によって消費されるのはトナー分のみ
であるのでそのままでは現像剤のトナー濃度が次第に低
下していき形成画像濃度も低下していく結果となる。従
って、トナー消費にかかわらず現像剤のトナー濃度を常
に適正に保つ為には現像剤のトナー濃度の速やかな検知
、その検知値にもとづくトナー分の適量・適量補給、補
給トナーの現像剤全体への速やかな均一分散・混合、及
びその現像剤のトナー濃度検知部への迅速な搬送が必要
である。In the case of a developing device that uses a developer containing toner and magnetic particles, only the toner is consumed during development, so if left as is, the toner concentration of the developer will gradually decrease and the density of the formed image will also decrease. The result is as follows. Therefore, in order to always keep the toner concentration of the developer at an appropriate level regardless of toner consumption, it is necessary to quickly detect the toner concentration of the developer, replenish the appropriate amount of toner based on the detected value, and distribute the replenished toner to the entire developer. It is necessary to quickly and uniformly disperse and mix the developer and quickly transport the developer to the toner concentration detection section.
そこでこの種の現像装置においては、現像剤収納部の現
像剤のトナー濃度を検知する手段、現像剤収納部の現像
剤を撹拌・搬送状態にする手段、補給トナー収納部、該
補給トナー収納部のトナーを現像剤収納部へ搬送する手
段等が具備されている。すなわち、上記トナー濃度検出
手段で現像剤収納部の現像剤のトナー濃度の経時的低下
度合を検知させ、その検知情報を制御回路へ人力させ、
トナー濃度低Ｆが所定の許容下限になったら上記の補給
トナー搬送手段を作動させて補給トナーの一部を現像剤
収納部へ導入させる。そしてその補給トナーを１ユ記の
現像剤撹拌・搬送り段により現像剤収納部の現像剤全体
に速やかに混入分散させ、トナー補給により現像剤のト
ナー濃度が所定の値に１昇したことが上記トナー濃度検
出手段で検知されたら補給トナー搬送手段の作動を停止
させる。この一連の動作により現像剤のトナー濃度を常
に所定の略一定値に自動管理制御させるものである。Therefore, in this type of developing device, there is a means for detecting the toner concentration of the developer in the developer storage section, a means for stirring and conveying the developer in the developer storage section, a replenishment toner storage section, and the replenishment toner storage section. A means for conveying the toner to the developer storage section is provided. That is, the toner concentration detection means detects the degree of decrease over time in the toner concentration of the developer in the developer storage section, and the detected information is manually transmitted to the control circuit.
When the low toner concentration F reaches a predetermined allowable lower limit, the replenishment toner conveying means is activated to introduce a portion of the replenishment toner into the developer storage section. Then, the replenishment toner is quickly mixed and dispersed throughout the developer in the developer storage section by the developer stirring/conveying stage described in 1 U, and it is confirmed that the toner concentration of the developer has increased by 1 to a predetermined value by toner replenishment. When detected by the toner concentration detection means, the operation of the replenishment toner conveyance means is stopped. Through this series of operations, the toner concentration of the developer is always automatically managed and controlled to a predetermined substantially constant value.
而して信頼性のある高精度の上記トナー濃度自動管理制
御を行わせる為の要件の１つとして、トナー濃度検出手
段の精度及び信頼性が挙げられる。One of the requirements for performing reliable and highly accurate toner concentration automatic management control is the accuracy and reliability of the toner concentration detection means.
トナー濃度検出手段としては、現像剤の反射光量を利用
する光学的検知法、透磁率を利用する磁気的検知法、誘
電率を利用する電気的検知法、体積変化及び左度変化等
を利用する検知法、或いはそれらの組合わせによる複合
的な検知法等が知られている。As toner concentration detection means, an optical detection method that uses the amount of light reflected from the developer, a magnetic detection method that uses magnetic permeability, an electrical detection method that uses dielectric constant, a change in volume, a change in left degree, etc. are used. Detection methods or complex detection methods using a combination thereof are known.
しかしいずれの場合においても１例えば、現像剤の撹拌
・Ｊ１合が、トナー濃度検知部において不充分である場
合、検知部における現像剤がある所定■以１−存在しな
い場合、或いは検知部に現象剤か滞留・付着し現像剤の
入れ替わりが速やかに行われない場合等には、上記検知
法自体が精度的によく信頼性があったとしてもトナー濃
度自動管理制御系は不正確なトナー濃度検知値にもとず
いて作動することになり信頼性が低下するという問題が
生ずる。However, in any case, for example, if the agitation/J1 mixing of the developer is insufficient at the toner concentration detection part, if the developer in the detection part does not exist beyond a certain level, or if there is a phenomenon in the detection part. Even if the above-mentioned detection method itself is accurate and reliable, the toner concentration automatic management control system may inaccurately detect toner concentration if the developer is not replaced quickly due to developer retention or adhesion. The problem arises that reliability is reduced because the operation is based on the value.
又トナー濃度検知部においてのみならず、現像剤収納部
内において補給トナーが現像剤中に速やかに分散・混合
されず、未撹拌分散、状態のままの現像剤が現像剤担持
部材上に搬送された場合には形成画像上にカブリという
現象が生し、結果的にトナー濃度自動管理制御系が誤作
動している様な状態が生ずる。In addition, the replenishment toner was not dispersed and mixed into the developer quickly not only in the toner concentration detection unit but also in the developer storage unit, and the developer was conveyed onto the developer carrying member in an unstirred and dispersed state. In such cases, a phenomenon called fogging occurs on the formed image, resulting in a situation where the automatic toner density management control system appears to be malfunctioning.
そこで未発明は現像容器内の現像剤の全体混合、及び該
現像容器内の現像剤に補、給されたトナーの現像剤全体
への速やかな均一分散・混合を常に確実に行わせるよう
にして現像容器内の実際的な現像剤トナー濃度を検知手
段で検知ごせることによりトナー濃度自動管理制御のＩ
Ｅ確性・信頼性を向上させることを目的とする。Therefore, the present invention always ensures that the entire developer in the developer container is mixed, and that the toner replenished and supplied to the developer in the developer container is quickly and uniformly dispersed and mixed into the entire developer. By being able to detect the actual developer toner concentration in the developer container with a detection means, it is possible to automatically manage and control toner concentration.
The purpose is to improve accuracy and reliability.
口１発明の構成 〔問題点を解決するための手段〕 本発明は。1. Structure of the invention [Means for solving problems] The present invention is.
トナーと磁性粒子を有する現像剤を現像剤担持部材に担
持させ、その担持現像剤で潜像保持体表面を現像する現
−装置において。In a developing device that causes a developer carrying member to carry a developer containing toner and magnetic particles, and develops the surface of a latent image carrier with the carried developer.
現像容器内に現像剤担持部材長手方向に対して上下に配
した現像剤撹拌・搬送手段を有し、該手段の下側搬送手
段の現像剤搬送力が該下側搬送手段による現像剤搬送方
向下流側に向うに従い徐々に或いは段階的に増加するよ
うに構成した。The developer container has developer stirring/transporting means arranged vertically with respect to the longitudinal direction of the developer carrying member, and the developer transporting force of the lower transporting means of the means is applied in the developer transporting direction by the lower transporting means. It is configured to increase gradually or stepwise toward the downstream side.
ことを特徴とする現像装置 を要旨とする。A developing device characterized by The gist is:
前シしたように、現像剤としてトナーと磁性粒子を有す
る現像剤を用いる方式の現像装置の場合は現像によって
消費されるのはトナー分のみであるので、現像剤容器内
の現像剤のトナー濃度を常に適正に保つ為には、現像剤
の現在トナー濃度の速やかな検知、その検知値にもとす
くトナー分の適時・適量補給・補給トナー分の現像剤全
体への速やかな均一分散混合か必要である。この場合上
記のトナー補給に関して、現像剤容器内の現像剤が現像
剤撹拌・搬送手段としての例えばスクリュ軸９（第７図
（Ｃ））により現像剤担持部材の長子一方向Ｘに撹拌・
搬送状態にあるとき、そのＸ方向に流動している現像剤
撹拌・搬送部の現像剤搬送方向に沿う領域りの各部に対
してトナー補給部のトナー補給口部１６（同図（ａ））
からトナーを均一量分布（同図（ｂ））で補給すると、
現像剤撹拌・搬送部の現像剤搬送方向Ｘの下流側には上
記各部に均一量分布で補給されたトナーが徐々に寄せら
れてくるので、現像剤容器内の現像剤のトナー濃度は現
像剤の搬送進行につれて、現像剤搬送方向下流側に向う
に従って次第に高くなった傾斜した濃度分布状態（同図
（ｄ））となり、その結実現像剤の搬送方向下流側に向
うに従い画像ムラやカブリを生じやすい傾向となる。As mentioned above, in the case of a developing device that uses a developer containing toner and magnetic particles, only the toner is consumed during development, so the toner concentration of the developer in the developer container is In order to always keep the toner at an appropriate level, it is necessary to quickly detect the current toner concentration of the developer, replenish the toner at the right time and in the right amount based on the detected value, and quickly and uniformly disperse and mix the supplied toner into the entire developer. is necessary. In this case, regarding the above-mentioned toner replenishment, the developer in the developer container is stirred and transported in one direction
When in the conveying state, the toner replenishing port 16 of the toner replenishing section (FIG. 2(a)) is connected to each part of the developer stirring/conveying section along the developer conveying direction that is flowing in the X direction.
When toner is replenished in a uniform amount distribution (see figure (b)),
On the downstream side of the developer stirring/conveying section in the developer conveying direction As the developer progresses, the density distribution state gradually becomes higher toward the downstream side in the developer conveyance direction (see (d) in the same figure). It tends to be easy.
そこで本発明はスクリュ軸９（第６図（ｄ））の現像剤
搬送力を第６図（ｂ）のように現像剤撹拌・搬送部の現
像剤搬送方向Ｘに関して搬送力向ド流に向うに従い徐々
に或いは段階的に大きくなるように構成し、現像剤の波
性が搬送方向下流側に行くに従い徐々に或いは段階的に
増えるようにしている。その結果、補給口部１６（第６
図（ａ））の領域りの各部においてトナー補給量が均一
でも、その補給トナーを取り込む現像剤の量、すなわち
補給時間内に通過する現像剤の量は搬送方向下流側に行
くに従い多くなるので実質的に、単位現像剤量に対する
トナー補給量は搬送方向下流側に向うに従い少なくなり
、現像剤搬送方向に沿う現像剤各部のトナー濃度は第６
図（Ｃ）のように均一化する。Therefore, the present invention directs the developer conveying force of the screw shaft 9 (FIG. 6(d)) in the direction of the conveying force with respect to the developer conveying direction X of the developer stirring/conveying section as shown in FIG. 6(b). Accordingly, the corrugation of the developer is configured to increase gradually or stepwise as it goes downstream in the transport direction. As a result, the supply port 16 (sixth
Even if the amount of toner replenishment is uniform in each part of the area shown in Figure (a)), the amount of developer that takes in the replenished toner, that is, the amount of developer that passes within the replenishment time, increases as you go downstream in the transport direction. Substantially, the amount of toner replenishment per unit amount of developer decreases toward the downstream side in the conveyance direction, and the toner concentration of each part of the developer along the developer conveyance direction is 6th.
It is made uniform as shown in figure (C).
但し、このときの現像剤の流量には、−ヒスフリユ力向
からＦスクリュ方向へ流れてくる量も加えられている。However, the flow rate of the developer at this time also includes the amount flowing from the -Hisufuri force direction to the F screw direction.
以下、図面に基づき本発明に係わる現像装置の一実施例
について説明する。Hereinafter, one embodiment of the developing device according to the present invention will be described based on the drawings.
第１図において、Ａは潜像保持体としてのドラム状或は
ベルト状の電子写真感光体−静’１１ｆ記録誘電体等で
あり、矢印方向に所定速度で面移動駆動され、不図示の
作像プロセス機器により潜像が形成され、それが現像装
置Ｂにより顕画像として現像される。In FIG. 1, A is a drum-shaped or belt-shaped electrophotographic photoreceptor-static '11f recording dielectric material, etc. as a latent image holding member, which is driven to move in plane at a predetermined speed in the direction of the arrow, and is driven to perform an operation (not shown). A latent image is formed by the image processing equipment, and developed by the developing device B as a visible image.
現像装置Ｂにおいて、ｌは現像８詣であって、内部を隔
壁２によってトナー収納部３と、トナーと磁性粒子から
なる現像剤を収納する現像剤収納部４とに区画之れでい
る。トナー収納部３内の収納トナー、及び現像剤収納部
４内の現像剤は図には省略した。（・チー収納部３内の
収納トナーはトチ−搬送部材６１ ・６２が回動駆動さ
れることにより逐次隔壁２方向に搬送され、トナー補給
口１６から現像剤収納部４内へ補給される。In the developing device B, l denotes a developing device, and the interior thereof is divided by a partition wall 2 into a toner storage portion 3 and a developer storage portion 4 that stores a developer made of toner and magnetic particles. The toner stored in the toner storage section 3 and the developer in the developer storage section 4 are omitted from the drawing. (The toner stored in the toner storage portion 3 is sequentially conveyed toward the partition wall 2 by rotationally driving the toe conveyance members 61 and 62, and is replenished into the developer storage portion 4 from the toner replenishment port 16.
７は現像剤収納部４内に配設した現像剤担持部材であり
、マグネットロール７２を内蔵した非磁性物質でできた
現像スリーブ７、で構成されている。１．に現像スリー
ブ７．は右斜め下面部が現像剤収納１召４に設けた開口
部から外部に露すしておリ、現像装置Ｂは現像スリーブ
７１の上記外部露呈面部が潜像保持体Ａ面に対して所定
の径小な隙間を存して対向位置するように支持部材に位
置決め保持されている。Reference numeral 7 denotes a developer carrying member disposed within the developer accommodating portion 4, and is composed of a developing sleeve 7 made of a non-magnetic material and having a built-in magnet roll 72. 1. Developing sleeve 7. The right diagonal bottom surface of the developing device B is exposed to the outside through the opening provided in developer storage 1 to 4, and the developing device B is arranged so that the externally exposed surface of the developing sleeve 71 is in a predetermined position with respect to the surface of the latent image holder A. They are positioned and held on the support member so that they are opposed to each other with a small diameter gap.
Ｓ、〜Ｓ３．Ｎ、〜Ｎ３はマグネットロール７２の着磁
位置を示している。マグネットローｌし７２は両端部を
固定支持されていて回転せず、その外側の現像スリーブ
７、がマグネットロール７２の囲りを所定の周速で矢印
方向に回転駆動される。S, ~S3. N, to N3 indicate the magnetized positions of the magnet roll 72. The magnetic roller 72 is fixedly supported at both ends and does not rotate, and the outer developing sleeve 7 is driven to rotate around the magnetic roller 72 at a predetermined circumferential speed in the direction of the arrow.
８・９は現像剤収納部４内において、現像スリーブ７□
とほぼ並行に上下に配設した現像剤撹拌・搬送手段とし
てのスクリュ軸であり、それぞれ矢印方向に回転駆動さ
れている。１７は該上下のスクリュ軸８・９の間に設け
た現像剤循環規制部材である。8 and 9 are in the developer storage section 4, and the developing sleeve 7□
Screw shafts are disposed vertically in parallel with the developer agitation and conveyance means, and are driven to rotate in the directions of the arrows. Reference numeral 17 denotes a developer circulation regulating member provided between the upper and lower screw shafts 8 and 9.
１０・１４は現像剤収納部４内のヒト部に配設した現像
スリーブ７ ｌ ＦＡ面一ヒの現像剤の循１領域指定部
材、１１・１３は現像剤収納部４の底面と現像スリーブ
７１下面との隙間部から収納現像剤がＭｌｌ像保持体力
方向流動漏洩することを防止するべく現像剤収納部４の
底面側に配設した磁性部材とマグネット、１２は現像ス
リーブ７□の周面に形成する現像剤の層厚を規制するた
めに、現像スリーブ７Ｉの北面側に下辺を現像スリーブ
上面に対して所定の径小の隙間を存して対向させて配設
した非磁性ブレードである。Reference numerals 10 and 14 indicate a developing sleeve 7 disposed in the human part of the developer storage unit 4; members 11 and 13 designate areas for developer circulation on the FA surface; 11 and 13 indicate the bottom surface of the developer storage unit 4 and the development sleeve 71; A magnetic member and a magnet 12 are arranged on the bottom side of the developer storage section 4 to prevent the stored developer from leaking in the direction of the Mll image holding body force from the gap between the bottom surface and the bottom surface. In order to regulate the layer thickness of the developer to be formed, this is a non-magnetic blade disposed on the north side of the developing sleeve 7I with its lower side facing the upper surface of the developing sleeve with a predetermined small gap.
１５は現像剤収納部４内の現像剤の濃度（トナーと磁性
粒子との混合比）を検知するセンサであり、このセンサ
の出力が制御回路（不図示）へ入力され、それに応じて
前記トナー収、納部３内のトナー搬送部材６１ ・６２
の回動駆動が制御される。Reference numeral 15 denotes a sensor that detects the concentration of the developer (mixing ratio of toner and magnetic particles) in the developer storage section 4. The output of this sensor is input to a control circuit (not shown), and the toner is adjusted accordingly. Toner conveying members 61 and 62 in the storage section 3
The rotational drive of is controlled.
現像装置稼動時は現像スリーブ７１、上下のスクリュ軸
８・９はそれぞれ所定の速度で回転駆動され、現像スリ
ーブ７１と潜像保持体Ａの間にはバイアス電源Ｓにより
交番電圧が印加される。When the developing device is in operation, the developing sleeve 71 and the upper and lower screw shafts 8 and 9 are rotated at predetermined speeds, and an alternating voltage is applied between the developing sleeve 71 and the latent image holder A by a bias power source S.
本例装置における前記トナー濃度検知センサ１５は、現
像スリーブ７１に印加した上記交番電界で誘起されるセ
ンサ電圧が該センサに作用する現像剤のトナーと磁性粒
子との混合比（即ち現像剤のトナー濃度）により変化し
てセンサ出力となる構成のもので、下側スクリュ軸９で
搬送された現像剤がトナーと磁性粒子との混合比により
体積が変化してセンサ１５を覆い、その混合比に対応し
てＬ記のセンサ電圧が変化してセッサ出力となる。その
センサ出力が現像剤の現在トナー濃度情報として制御回
路へ入力される。The toner concentration detection sensor 15 in the apparatus of this embodiment is configured such that a sensor voltage induced by the alternating electric field applied to the developing sleeve 71 acts on the sensor at a mixing ratio of the toner of the developer and the magnetic particles (i.e., the toner of the developer The developer conveyed by the lower screw shaft 9 changes in volume depending on the mixing ratio of toner and magnetic particles and covers the sensor 15, and the sensor output changes depending on the mixing ratio. Correspondingly, the sensor voltage in L changes to become the sensor output. The sensor output is input to the control circuit as current toner concentration information of the developer.
上下のスクリュ軸８φ９の回転により現像剤収納部４内
の現像剤は現像スリーブ７１の長手方向に十分撹拌され
、現像スリーブ７！付近ではほぼ均一なトナーと磁性粒
子の混合比が得られ、実質的に現像スリーブ７□の長手
方向各部についてのムラが除去される。By the rotation of the upper and lower screw shafts 8φ9, the developer in the developer storage section 4 is sufficiently stirred in the longitudinal direction of the developing sleeve 71, and the developing sleeve 7! A substantially uniform mixing ratio of toner and magnetic particles is obtained in the vicinity, and unevenness in each longitudinal portion of the developing sleeve 7□ is substantially eliminated.
」二下のスクリュ軸８・９は夫々矢印（第２図）の方向
に回転するが、それにより現像剤収納部４内の現像剤が
上側のスクリュ軸８近傍の現像剤と下側のスクリュ軸９
近傍の現像剤とが夫々のスクリュ軸の長手方向に対して
１例えばヒ側スクリュ輔８近傍の現像剤は該スクリュ軸
長手に沿って第２図矢示Ｙ方向に現像剤収納部４の奥側
から手前側へ、下側スクリュ軸９近傍の現像剤は逆に矢
示Ｘ方向に手前側から奥側へと互いに反対方向に、［［
つ該上−ドのスクリュ軸８・９の回転に伴ない軸回りを
回動しながら搬送されるように上下のスクリュ軸８・９
のスクリュ羽根８□４９１の向きを夫々逆向きに設定し
である。The two lower screw shafts 8 and 9 rotate in the directions of the arrows (Fig. 2), which causes the developer in the developer storage section 4 to mix with the developer near the upper screw shaft 8 and the lower screw shaft. Axis 9
For example, the developer near the H-side screw 8 is moved along the longitudinal direction of the screw shaft in the direction indicated by the arrow Y in FIG. From the side to the front side, the developer near the lower screw shaft 9 moves in opposite directions from the front side to the back side in the direction of arrow X.
The upper and lower screw shafts 8 and 9 are conveyed while rotating around the shafts as the upper screw shafts 8 and 9 rotate.
The directions of the screw blades 8□491 are set to be opposite to each other.
ド側スクリュ袖９はその現像剤搬送力が該スクリュ軸に
よる現像剤搬送方向Ｘの下流側に向うに従い徐々に或は
段階的に増加する（強くなる）ようにする。第３図・第
４図・第５図はそれぞれその具体的ｆ一段例を示したも
のである。The developer conveyance force of the side screw sleeve 9 is made to gradually or stepwise increase (become stronger) as it goes downstream in the developer conveyance direction X by the screw shaft. FIG. 3, FIG. 4, and FIG. 5 each show a specific example of one stage of f.
（Ｉ）第３図例
下側スクリュ軸９のスクリュ羽根９１は第３図（ａ）の
ように、その外径がド側スクリュの現像剤搬送方向Ｘの
下流側に向うに従い次第に或いは段階的に大きくなり、
それにつれて現像剤搬送に寄与する羽４ｆｉ ９１の断
面積も現像剤搬送方向下流側に行くに従い次第に或いは
段階的に広くなるように配設されている。従って該下側
スクリュ軸９による現像剤搬送量は第３図（ｂ）のよう
に現像剤搬送方向下流側に向うに従い多くなる。(I) Example of Fig. 3 As shown in Fig. 3(a), the screw blade 91 of the lower screw shaft 9 has an outer diameter gradually or stepwise as it goes downstream in the developer conveyance direction X of the do side screw. It grows to
Accordingly, the cross-sectional area of the blades 4fi 91 contributing to the developer transport is also arranged such that it becomes wider gradually or stepwise as it goes downstream in the developer transport direction. Therefore, the amount of developer conveyed by the lower screw shaft 9 increases toward the downstream side in the developer conveyance direction, as shown in FIG. 3(b).
（ＩＩ ）第４図例
下側スクリュ軸９の長手に沿うスクリュ羽根９１の間隔
（ピッチ）を該スクリュ軸による現像剤搬送方向Ｘの下
流側に向うに従い徐々に或は段階的に広げである（立２
ａ＞党２ｂ ＞交２Ｃ＞文２ｄ・・・）。これにより該
スクリュ軸９による現像剤搬送量は現像剤搬送方向下流
側に向うに従い多くなる。(II) The interval (pitch) of the screw blades 91 along the length of the lower screw shaft 9 in the example shown in FIG. 4 is gradually or stepwise widened toward the downstream side in the developer conveyance direction (Standing 2
a>party 2b>cross 2C>text 2d...). As a result, the amount of developer transported by the screw shaft 9 increases toward the downstream side in the developer transport direction.
（［［）第５図例
下側スクリュ軸９の近傍に現像剤流量調節部材１４を配
設し、スクリュ軸９と該部材１４との間隔ｄを該スクリ
ュ軸９による現像剤搬送方向Ｘの下流側に向うに従い徐
々に或は段階的に狭める（ｄ＋＞ｄ２）。本例は第１図
装置における現像剤循原指定部材をＬ記現像剤ＩＲ，量
調節部材に兼用させである。これにより該スクリュ軸９
による現像剤搬送量は現像剤搬送方向下流側に向うに従
って多くなる。([[) Example in FIG. 5 A developer flow rate adjusting member 14 is disposed near the lower screw shaft 9, and the distance d between the screw shaft 9 and the member 14 is adjusted in the developer conveyance direction X by the screw shaft 9. It narrows gradually or stepwise toward the downstream side (d+>d2). In this example, the developer circulation source specifying member in the apparatus shown in FIG. 1 is also used as the L developer IR and amount adjusting member. As a result, the screw shaft 9
The amount of developer conveyed increases toward the downstream side in the developer conveyance direction.
現像剤収納部４内における現像剤の現像剤収納部横断面
上での動きは、現像スリーブ７エの回転、スクリュ軸８
・９の回転、マグネ、トロール７２の磁界、現像剤循環
領域指定部材１０・１４、同循環規制部材１７の存在、
現像スリーブ７１と現像剤との摩擦力、現像剤の重力等
により第１図の白抜き矢示の如き循環的流動運動となる
。The movement of the developer in the developer storage section 4 on the cross section of the developer storage section is caused by the rotation of the developing sleeve 7e and the screw shaft 8.
・The rotation of 9, the magnetic field of the magnet and troll 72, the presence of the developer circulation area designating members 10 and 14, and the circulation regulating member 17,
Due to the frictional force between the developing sleeve 71 and the developer, the gravity of the developer, etc., a cyclical flow motion as shown by the white arrow in FIG. 1 occurs.
而して現像剤収納部４の現像剤溜り内に臨んでいる現像
スリーブ７□の面領域にその近傍の現像剤即ちトナーを
含む磁性粒子がスリ７ブ７１内のマグネットロール７２
の磁力により磁気プラン吸着層として付着保持されて現
像スリーブ７、の回転に伴ない非磁性ブレード１２位首
へ搬送され、非磁性ブレード１２位置を通過する過程で
層厚が規制され、トナーを含む少量の磁性粒子の薄層と
なって現像部ａ （ｆｆｉ像保像保持体現像スリーブ７
１の対面部、磁極ＮＺ付近）を通過する。As a result, the magnetic particles containing developer, that is, toner, in the vicinity of the surface area of the developing sleeve 7 □ facing the developer reservoir of the developer storage section 4 are transferred to the magnetic roll 72 in the sleeve 71 .
It is adhered and held as a magnetic plan adsorption layer by the magnetic force of the developing sleeve 7, and is transported to the non-magnetic blade 12 position as the developing sleeve 7 rotates, and the layer thickness is regulated in the process of passing through the non-magnetic blade 12 position, and it contains toner. A thin layer of a small amount of magnetic particles is formed in the developing section a (ffi image holding member developing sleeve 7).
1 (near the magnetic pole NZ).
その現像部ａの通過過程において現像部ａに作用してい
る電界、磁極Ｎ２の磁界作用により、現像スリーブ７１
側の現像剤層のトナーが潜像保持体Ａ面側に潜像パター
ンに対応して移行付着して潜像保持体Ａ面の潜像のトナ
ー現像が順次に行われる。During the process of passing through the developing section a, the developing sleeve 71
The toner in the developer layer on the side moves and adheres to the side A of the latent image carrier in accordance with the latent image pattern, and the toner development of the latent image on the side A of the latent image carrier is sequentially performed.
現像に供され、現像部ａを通過した現像スリーブ７！側
の現像剤層は引続く現像スリーブ７１の回動により現像
剤収納部４内に、磁極Ｓ２ ・Ｎ２の磁界によりそのま
まスリーブ７、面に保持されて戻し搬送されて現像剤収
納部４内の現像剤と混り合う。The developing sleeve 7 that has been subjected to development and has passed through the developing section a! By the subsequent rotation of the developing sleeve 71, the developer layer on the side is held in the sleeve 7 by the magnetic field of the magnetic poles S2 and N2 and conveyed back to the developer storage section 4. Mixes with developer.
現像剤収納部４の現像剤内のトナー分は潜像の現像に消
費されることにより経時的に磁性粒子との混合比が低下
していく。その低ド度合がセンサ１５により検知されそ
の検知情報が制御回路（不図示）に人力され、低下度が
所定の許容下限になるとその信号によりトナー収納部３
内のトナー供給部材６、・６２の回転がなされ、これに
よりトナー収、納部３内のトナーがトナー補給Ｑ１６か
ら現像剤収納部４内へ１８δし１人補給される。The toner in the developer in the developer storage section 4 is consumed in developing the latent image, so that the mixing ratio with the magnetic particles decreases over time. The degree of low deterioration is detected by the sensor 15, and the detected information is inputted to a control circuit (not shown). When the degree of deterioration reaches a predetermined permissible lower limit, a signal is sent to the toner storage section 3.
The toner supply members 6 and 62 inside are rotated, whereby the toner in the toner storage and storage section 3 is replenished by 18δ from the toner supply Q16 into the developer storage section 4.
？＋１１給されたトナーは現像剤収納部４内の現像剤内
に下記のように取り込まれて現像剤の全体に均一・迅速
に混入していく。このトナー補給により現像剤収納部４
内の現像剤のトナー分混合比がト昇し所定の許容上ｙ１
になったことがセンサ１５により検知されると、トナー
補給部材６、・６２の回転駆動が停止される。これによ
り現像剤収納部４内の現像剤の磁性粒子に対するトナー
分の混合比が常に略一定に保たれ、常に安定した高画質
画像を得ることができる。? The +11 fed toner is taken into the developer in the developer storage section 4 as described below and is mixed uniformly and quickly throughout the developer. Due to this toner supply, the developer storage section 4
The toner mixture ratio of the developer in
When the sensor 15 detects that the toner replenishment member 6, 62 is rotated, the rotational drive of the toner replenishing members 6, 62 is stopped. As a result, the mixing ratio of the toner to the magnetic particles of the developer in the developer storage section 4 is always kept substantially constant, and a stable high-quality image can always be obtained.
即ちトナー補給口１６から現像剤収納部４内に補給され
るトナーは下側のスクリュ軸９によって既存の現像剤内
に該軸に沿う前記Ｘ方向に移動はつ回動じながら撹拌・
搬送されて混合分散される。そしてその現像剤は現像ス
リーブ７１上を移動し、循環規制部材１７と磁極Ｓ３と
の間で循環が規制され、潜像保持体Ａを現像し終えて現
像剤収納部４内に戻し搬送されたスリーブ７１上の現像
剤、及び北側のスクリュ＠８により該軸に沿う前記Ｙ方
向に移動且つ回動搬送された現像剤と合波して混合撹拌
され、一部はスクリュ軸９の方向へ一部は上側の現像剤
循環領域指定部材１０を通って非磁性ブレード１２側へ
流動して層厚規制を受は現像スリーブ７１上に保持され
て現像部ａへ搬送され、潜像の現像に供される。上側ス
クリュ軸８方向へ搬送された現像剤は、該スクリュ軸８
の軸方向へ下側スク°リュ軸９とは反対方向に搬送され
ながら一部はスリーブ方向へ、一部は下側スクリュ軸９
の方向へと搬送される。上側スクリュ軸８によって軸方
向へ移動する際にスリーブ７１表面の現像剤は軸方向に
わたってほぼ均一にならされる。That is, the toner supplied from the toner supply port 16 into the developer storage section 4 is moved into the existing developer by the lower screw shaft 9 in the X direction along the shaft, and is stirred and rotated while rotating.
It is transported and mixed and dispersed. The developer then moves on the developing sleeve 71, its circulation is regulated between the circulation regulating member 17 and the magnetic pole S3, and after developing the latent image holder A, it is returned to the developer storage section 4 and transported. The developer on the sleeve 71 and the developer moved and rotationally conveyed in the Y direction along the axis by the north screw @ 8 are mixed and stirred, and a part of the developer is mixed and stirred in the direction of the screw axis 9. The developer flows through the upper developer circulation area specifying member 10 to the non-magnetic blade 12 side, where the layer thickness is regulated, and is held on the developing sleeve 71 and conveyed to the developing section a, where it is used for developing the latent image. be done. The developer conveyed in the direction of the upper screw shaft 8 is
While being conveyed in the axial direction of the lower screw shaft 9 in the direction opposite to the lower screw shaft 9, some of the parts are transported toward the sleeve, and some of the parts are transported to the lower screw shaft 9.
It is transported in the direction of. When the sleeve 71 is moved in the axial direction by the upper screw shaft 8, the developer on the surface of the sleeve 71 is made almost uniform in the axial direction.
現像剤ｗ３環規制部材１７は、スリーブ７、側では磁極
Ｓ３付近の現像剤の循環・搬送を規制すると共に、上側
のスクリュ軸８或は下側のスクリュ軸９に対してはガイ
ド板の役割を果し、現像剤の撹拌・搬送の安定化にも寄
与している。又スリーブ７１と反対側においては現像容
器ｌとの間に空隙を有し、上側スクリュ軸８により循環
・搬送された現像剤の一部を下側スクリュ軸９の方向へ
導く作用もしている。The developer w3 ring regulating member 17 regulates the circulation and conveyance of the developer near the magnetic pole S3 on the sleeve 7 side, and also serves as a guide plate for the upper screw shaft 8 or the lower screw shaft 9. It also contributes to stabilizing the stirring and transport of developer. Further, there is a gap between the sleeve 71 and the developing container 1 on the opposite side thereof, which also serves to guide a portion of the developer circulated and conveyed by the upper screw shaft 8 toward the lower screw shaft 9.
現像剤循環規制部材１７はスリーブ７、側の先端に磁性
部材１８を設けると、磁極Ｓ３との間に磁界が発生し、
該磁極Ｓ３付近のスリーブ７１の−Ｌの現像剤の循環を
より強く規制することができる。尚該磁性部材１８はマ
グネットにしてもよいし、現像剤循環規制部材１７自体
を磁性体で構成することちり能である。マグネットを使
用する場合は磁極Ｓ３と異極ならば現像剤循環の規制が
強まり、同極の場合は循環が良くなり、スリーブ７□−
ヒの現像剤と現像剤収納部４内の現像剤の入れ持りが良
くなることが観察された。When the magnetic member 18 is provided at the tip of the developer circulation regulating member 17 on the side of the sleeve 7, a magnetic field is generated between it and the magnetic pole S3.
The circulation of the developer -L in the sleeve 71 near the magnetic pole S3 can be more strongly regulated. The magnetic member 18 may be a magnet, or the developer circulation regulating member 17 itself may be made of a magnetic material. When using a magnet, if the magnetic pole is different from the magnetic pole S3, the regulation of developer circulation will be strengthened, and if it is the same polarity, the circulation will be improved, and the sleeve 7□-
It was observed that the retention of the developer in the developer container 4 and the developer in the developer container 4 was improved.
センサ１５としては本例装置の現像剤の体積検知方式の
他にも、圧電素子、インダクタンス変化検知素子、交番
バイアスを利用したアンテナ方式等を利用することかで
きる。As the sensor 15, in addition to the developer volume detection method of the apparatus of this embodiment, a piezoelectric element, an inductance change detection element, an antenna method using alternating bias, etc. can be used.
尚北記実施例において現像剤撹拌・搬送手段としての上
下のスクリュ軸８・９、現像スリーブ７Ｉの回転方向は
実施例のものに限定されるものではない。In the embodiment described above, the rotation directions of the upper and lower screw shafts 8, 9 and the developing sleeve 7I as developer stirring and conveying means are not limited to those in the embodiment.
また、撹拌φ搬送手段８・９はスクリュ軸に限らず回転
羽根でも良い、マグネットロール７２の磁極数、Ｆｉ１
極種も実施例に限られるものではない。In addition, the stirring φ conveyance means 8 and 9 are not limited to screw shafts, but may also be rotary blades, and the number of magnetic poles of the magnet roll 72 is
The polar species are also not limited to the examples.
ハ、発明の効果
以上本発明によれば、現像剤収納部の現像剤搬送方向に
対して現像剤搬送力を現像剤搬送方向下流側へ向うに従
い徐々に或いは段階的に大きくすることにより、現像合
奏内の現像剤各部のトナー濃度を均一に保たせることが
でき、かつトナー濃度検知の応答性があがり、常に安定
したトナー濃度自動管理制御状態が確保され、常に安定
した高画質の現像を行うことのできる現像装置を構成す
ることができ、所期の目的が達成される。C. Effects of the Invention According to the present invention, the developer conveyance force in the developer storage section is gradually or stepwise increased toward the downstream side in the developer conveyance direction. It is possible to maintain uniform toner concentration in each part of the developer in the ensemble, and the responsiveness of toner concentration detection is improved, ensuring a stable automatic toner concentration control state at all times, and consistently developing high-quality images. Therefore, it is possible to construct a developing device that can perform the following steps, and the intended purpose is achieved.
第１図は本発明現像装置の一実施例の横断面図、第２図
は現像剤撹拌・搬送手段としての上下の７クリユ軸の斜
面図、第３図（ａ）・（ｂ）は下側スクリュ軸の構成略
図と、その現像剤搬送特性グラフ、第４図は下側スクリ
ュ軸の他の構成略図、第５図（ａ３は下側スクリュ軸の
更に他の構成略図、同図（ｂ）はその斜面図、第６図（
ａ）・（ｂ）・（Ｃ）・（ｄ）はトナー補給口、ド側ス
クリュ軸の長手に沿う現像剤搬送力、同スクリュ軸に沿
う現像剤トナー濃度分１１ｊ、及びスクリュ軸の現像剤
搬送方向の相互関係説明図、第７図（ａ）・（ｂ）・（
ｃ）・（ｄ）は下側スクリュ軸の長トに沿う現像剤搬送
力が各部均一である場合に於ける同一ヒ図。
Ａは潜像保持体、Ｂは現像装置、７１は現像剤担持部材
としての現像スリーブ、８・９は上下の現像剤撹拌・搬
送手段としてのスクリュ軸。Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the developing device of the present invention, Fig. 2 is an oblique view of the upper and lower seven shafts as developer stirring and conveying means, and Figs. 3 (a) and (b) are the bottom. A schematic diagram of the structure of the side screw shaft and its developer transport characteristic graph, FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of another structure of the lower screw shaft, FIG. ) is the slope diagram, Figure 6 (
a), (b), (C), and (d) are the toner supply port, the developer conveying force along the length of the screw shaft on the do side, the developer toner concentration 11j along the same screw shaft, and the developer on the screw shaft. Interrelationship explanatory diagram in the conveyance direction, Fig. 7 (a), (b), (
c) and (d) are the same diagrams in the case where the developer conveying force along the length of the lower screw shaft is uniform at each part. A is a latent image holding member, B is a developing device, 71 is a developing sleeve as a developer carrying member, and 8 and 9 are screw shafts as upper and lower developer stirring and conveying means.
Claims (4)
材に担持させ、その担持現像剤で潜像保持体表面を現像
する現像装置において、 現像容器内に現像剤担持部材長手方向に対して上下に配
した現像剤撹拌・搬送手段を有し、該手段の下側搬送手
段の現像剤搬送力が該下側搬送手段による現像剤搬送方
向下流側に向うに従い徐々に或いは段階的に増加するよ
うに構成した、ことを特徴とする現像装置。(1) In a developing device that causes a developer carrying member to carry a developer containing toner and magnetic particles and develops the surface of a latent image carrier with the carried developer, there is a container in a developer container in the longitudinal direction of the developer carrying member. It has developer stirring/conveying means arranged above and below, and the developer conveying force of the lower conveying means of the means increases gradually or stepwise as it goes downstream in the developer conveying direction by the lower conveying means. A developing device configured as follows.
状の部材からなり、該スクリュ状部材の現像剤搬送面の
現像剤の搬送に寄与する実質的な面積を該スクリュ部材
による現像剤搬送方向下流側に向うに従い徐々に或いは
段階的に増加させて該下側搬送手段の現像剤搬送方向下
流側に向う現像剤搬送力を徐々に或は段階的に増加させ
た、特許請求の範囲第（１）項に記載の現像装置。(2) The lower conveying means of the developer stirring/conveying means is composed of a screw-like member, and the substantial area of the developer conveying surface of the screw-like member that contributes to the conveyance of the developer is Claims: The developer conveying force of the lower conveying means toward the downstream side in the developer conveying direction is gradually or stepwise increased toward the downstream side in the conveying direction. The developing device according to item (1).
状の部材からなり、該スクリュ部材のスクリュ羽根の間
隔を該スクリュ部材による現像剤搬送方向下流側に向う
に従い徐々に或は段階的に広げて該下側搬送手段の現像
剤搬送方向下流側に向う現像剤搬送力を徐々に或は段階
的に増加させた、特許請求の範囲第（１）項に記載の現
像装置。(3) The lower conveying means of the developer stirring/conveying means is composed of a screw-like member, and the interval between the screw blades of the screw member is gradually or stepwise as it goes downstream in the developer conveying direction by the screw member. The developing device according to claim 1, wherein the developer conveying force of the lower conveying means toward the downstream side in the developer conveying direction is gradually or stepwise increased.
状の部材からなり、該スクリュ部材の近傍に現像剤流量
調節部材を配設し、スクリュ部材と該現像剤流量調節部
材との間隔を該スクリュ部材による現像剤搬送方向下流
側に向うに従い徐々に或は段階的に狭めて該下側搬送手
段の現像剤搬送方向下流側に向う現像剤搬送力を徐々に
或は段階的に増加させた、特許請求の範囲第（１）項に
記載の現像装置。(4) The lower conveying means of the developer stirring/conveying means is composed of a screw-like member, and a developer flow rate adjusting member is disposed near the screw member, and the interval between the screw member and the developer flow rate adjusting member is is gradually or stepwise narrowed toward the downstream side in the developer transport direction by the screw member, thereby increasing the developer transport force of the lower transport means toward the downstream side in the developer transport direction. A developing device according to claim (1).
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| JP61293637A JPS63146072A (en) | 1986-12-10 | 1986-12-10 | Developing device |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| JP61293637A JPS63146072A (en) | 1986-12-10 | 1986-12-10 | Developing device |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| JPS63146072A true JPS63146072A (en) | 1988-06-18 |
Family
ID=17797287
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| JP61293637A Pending JPS63146072A (en) | 1986-12-10 | 1986-12-10 | Developing device |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| JP (1) | JPS63146072A (en) |
Cited By (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JPH03170970A (en) * | 1989-11-29 | 1991-07-24 | Mita Ind Co Ltd | Stirring roller |
| JP2005338577A (en) * | 2004-05-28 | 2005-12-08 | Kyocera Mita Corp | Developing device for image forming device |
| JP2009020303A (en) * | 2007-07-12 | 2009-01-29 | Canon Inc | Developing device and image forming apparatus |
| JP2011158577A (en) * | 2010-01-29 | 2011-08-18 | Ricoh Co Ltd | Developing device, process unit, and image forming apparatus |
-
1986
- 1986-12-10 JP JP61293637A patent/JPS63146072A/en active Pending
Cited By (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JPH03170970A (en) * | 1989-11-29 | 1991-07-24 | Mita Ind Co Ltd | Stirring roller |
| JP2005338577A (en) * | 2004-05-28 | 2005-12-08 | Kyocera Mita Corp | Developing device for image forming device |
| JP2009020303A (en) * | 2007-07-12 | 2009-01-29 | Canon Inc | Developing device and image forming apparatus |
| JP2011158577A (en) * | 2010-01-29 | 2011-08-18 | Ricoh Co Ltd | Developing device, process unit, and image forming apparatus |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| JP2000305359A (en) | Developing device and image forming device | |
| JP2007148182A (en) | Developing device and image forming apparatus | |
| JPS63146072A (en) | Developing device | |
| JP2004233597A (en) | Developing device | |
| JP2009098286A (en) | Developing device and image forming apparatus | |
| JPS63146073A (en) | Developing device | |
| JPS63208076A (en) | Developing device | |
| JPS62138876A (en) | Image forming device | |
| JPS6358467A (en) | Image forming device | |
| JPS62138878A (en) | Developing device | |
| JPH0516590Y2 (en) | ||
| JPS62138875A (en) | Developing device | |
| JPS62136677A (en) | Image recording device | |
| JPS63144375A (en) | Developing device | |
| JPH04204776A (en) | Developing device | |
| JPH0582942B2 (en) | ||
| JPH083683B2 (en) | Development device | |
| JPS63144376A (en) | Developing device | |
| JP3214934B2 (en) | Developing device | |
| JPS6371872A (en) | Developing device | |
| JPH0196673A (en) | Developing device | |
| JPH0263078A (en) | Developing device | |
| JPH0566671A (en) | Toner supplying method for developing device | |
| JPS62138877A (en) | Developing device | |
| JPS62138879A (en) | Developing device |