ПРОЯВОЧНОЕ УСТРОЙСТВО, ТЕХНОЛОГИЧЕСКИЙ КАРТРИДЖ И УСТРОЙСТВО ФОРМИРОВАНИЯ ИЗОБРАЖЕНИЙ

Настоящее изобретение относится к проявочному устройству для подачи проявителя для формирования изображений, технологическому картриджу, который включает проявочное устройство и который может устанавливаться на и сниматься с устройства формирования изображений, и устройству формирования изображений для формирования изображения посредством проявителя, подаваемого из проявочного устройства. Заявленная группа изобретений включает варианты проявочных устройств, варианты технологических картриджей и варианты устройств формирования изображений. Причем проявочное устройство содержит: проявочный блок, имеющий проявочную камеру, выполненную с возможностью снабжать проявителем несущий изображение элемент, и камеру подачи проявителя, выполненную с возможностью подавать проявитель в упомянутую проявочную камеру, поддерживаемый с возможностью качания и выполненный с возможностью подавать проявитель на несущий изображение элемент и поджимающий элемент, выполненный с возможностью поджимать упомянутый ...

БЛОК ЭЛЕКТРОФОТОГРАФИЧЕСКОГО СВЕТОЧУВСТВИТЕЛЬНОГО БАРАБАНА И СПОСОБ СНЯТИЯ СОЕДИНИТЕЛЬНОГО ЭЛЕМЕНТА

... 1. Блок электрофотографического светочувствительного барабана, содержащий:(a) цилиндр, имеющий светочувствительный слой на его внешней периферии; и(b) фланец барабана, закрепленный на одном конце упомянутого цилиндра, причем упомянутый фланец барабана включает в себя множество выступов, предусмотренных внутри упомянутого фланца барабана и выступающих радиально внутрь от фланца барабана, с зазором диаметрально между упомянутыми выступами, при этом каждый выступ имеет выемку для легкой деформации упомянутых выступов.2. Блок по п.1, в котором участок каждого выступа имеет нависающую часть.3. Блок по п.1, в котором другой зазор сформирован между регулирующими участками вдоль окружного направления упомянутого фланца барабана.4. Блок по п.3, в котором множество таких выемок предусмотрено с промежутками в окружном направлении.5. Блок по п.1, в котором упомянутый фланец барабана выполнен из смолы.6. Блок по п.1, далее содержащий зубчатую часть, предусмотренную вдоль наружной поверхности упомянутого ...

Dichtung, Wiederaufbereitungsverfahren einer Prozesseinheit und Bilderzeugungsgerät

Tonerbehälter, Prozesskassette, und Bilderzeugungsgerät

Produktintegrierter Rückantwortumschlag

A development process cartridge with a re-programmable memory device.

A development process cartridge for use with a photocopier or printer is provided with a re-programmable memory device thereby permitting reconditioning and re-use of the process cartridge in the same or different printer The memory device is provided with its own power supply (4). . In addition the device provides toner low and full status readings for the user throughout the entire life of the process cartridge of the printer. Once the cartridge has reached the end of its first life cycle a trained operative may recondition the process cartridge to render it capable of another cycle in either the same printer or alternatively configure it for another cycle in a different printer.

Refilled toner cartridge having increased yield

Refilled toner cartridge having increased yield

Refilled toner cartridge having increased yield

PROCESS CARTOUCHE, DEVELOPER CARTOUCHE AND IMAGING DEVICE

Image forming unit, method of assembling and disassembling the unit, and image forming device using the unit

INTEGRATED TONER CARTRIDGE WITH TONER AGITATOR AND SENSING DEVICE

A toner cartridge with a uni-body construction reduces the cost of production as well as reducing the chance of failure during use. The toner cartridge includes a waste bin having a leading end that can be sculpted to mate with the cartridge-receiving cavities of a large number of printers. Additional improvements include an improved toner beater and sensing apparatus, the elimination of a pivotal motion between the elements of the cartridge, an enhanced method of determining the amount of toner remaining in the toner chamber, and an improved means of agitating the toner within the toner chamber.

INTEGRATED TONER CARTRIDGE WITH TONER AGITATOR AND SENSING DEVICE

A toner cartridge with a uni-body construction reduces the cost of production as well as reducing the chance of failure during use. The toner cartridge includes a waste bin having a leading end that can be sculpted to mate with the cartridge-receiving cavities of a large number of printers. Additional improvements include an improved toner sifting agitator. The sifting action ensures that toner stays sufficiently fluid, and distributes evenly on the toner adder roller.

REFILLED TONER CARTRIDGE HAVING INCREASED YIELD

Electronic systems, such as printing systems, often use components that have integral memory. The integral memory can be used to store information about the component. In some printing systems this memory includes a portion that stores a value indicative of a print yield. Disclosed is a method and system for allowing the memory to have data indicative of an increased print yield.

СПОСОБ УДАЛЕНИЯ БАРАБАНА ИЗ ТОНЕРНОГО КАРТРИДЖА

Устройства и способы восстановления картриджа (100) для нанесения изображения, включающие восстановление барабана (108) с органическим фотопроводником (ОФП), расположенного в данном картридже, содержащем концевые заглушки (114, 116), которые прочно прикреплены к бункеру отходов или другой части тонерного картриджа (100). В одном аспекте данный способ включает удаление существующего ОФП барабана (108) без отсоединения концевых заглушек (114, 116) и установку нового ОФП барабана (108) без нарушения концевых заглушек (114, 116).

СПОСОБ ВОССТАНОВЛЕНИЯ КАРТРИДЖА ДЛЯ ПЕЧАТИ ИЗОБРАЖЕНИЙ

Предложены способы восстановления картриджа для печати изображений, включающие замену вращающегося элемента (400), например фотобарабана с органическим фотопроводником (ОФП) или вала подачи тонера в картридже для печати изображений, не отсоединяя держатели (118, 120) вращающегося элемента, например торцевые крышки, и установку запасного вращающегося элемента (400), не снимая торцевые крышки держателей (118, 120) вращающегося элемента.

СПОСОБ УДАЛЕНИЯ БАРАБАНА ИЗ ТОНЕРНОГО КАРТРИДЖА

Предложены устройства и способы восстановления картриджа (100) для нанесения изображения, включающие восстановление барабана (108) с органическим фотопроводником (ОФП), расположенного в данном картридже, содержащем концевые заглушки (114, 116), которые прочно прикреплены к бункеру отходов или другой части тонерного картриджа (100). В одном аспекте данный способ включает удаление существующего ОФП барабана (108) без отсоединения концевых заглушек (114, 116) и установку нового ОФП барабана (108) без нарушения концевых заглушек (114, 116).

Processing box and its regeneration method

Method for cleaning and filling cartridges for a laser printer

PROCESS CARTRIDGE AND ASSEMBLYING METHOD THEREFOR

IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

PROCESS CARTRIDGE RECYCLING METHOD AND PROCESS CARTRIDGE

PURPOSE: To provide a method for easily recycling a process cartridge. CONSTITUTION: A hole 19r is formed by a cutter V in a side cover 19 so as to be formed around a drum shaft 40, and the drum shaft 40 is drawn out, then, a photoreceptor drum (not shown in figure) supported by the drum shaft 40 is detached/attached from/to a transfer opening. Besides, a hole 19t is formed, and then, a cap for a toner packing port arranged in the toner storing frame is detached through the hole 19t, then, the toner is packed in the toner storing frame, thereafter, the cap is attached to the port. © KIPO & JPO 2003 ...

Rebite soldado por ultra-som para cartucho de processo, e método de montagem de soldagem por pontos em linha

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REMANUFACTURING IMAGING COMPONENTS

Techniques for modifying an imaging cartridge includes providing the imaging cartridge comprising a body including a circuit holding structure sized to hold an electronic circuit and forming a modified circuit holding structure, with the modified circuit holding structure sized to hold a replacement electronic circuit. At least one dimension of the replacement electronic circuit may be greater than a corresponding dimension of the electronic circuit.

TONER CARTRIDGE HAVING A SIFTING AGITATOR

A toner cartridge with a uni-body construction reduces the cost of production as well as reducing the chance of failure during use. The toner cartridge includes a waste bin having a leading end that can be sculpted to mate with the cartridge-receiving cavities of a large number of printers. Additional improvements include an improved toner sifting agitator. The sifting action ensures that toner stays sufficiently fluid, and distributes evenly on the toner adder roller.

Image forming apparatus

In an image forming apparatus, a latent image electrostatically formed on a photoconductive element is developed by a two-ingredient type developer consisting of toner and carrier. The photoconductive element has a life coincident with the life of the developer. When the photoconductive element and developer reach the end of their life, they are replaced at the same time.

Part connecting member, process cartridge, and electrophotographic image forming apparatus

In a part connecting member made from synthetic resin, at least two molded pieces obtained by the injection molding of plastic are provisionally connected by being adjacently arranged or abut against each other. The provisionally connected body is set in a die different from the dies used for the formation of each molded piece. Then, in a state such that each molded piece and the die are positioned, the molded pieces are joined by the injection of a molten resin material for joining into a gap formed between the opposed surfaces of the molded pieces that are adjacently arranged or abut against each other. An injection channel of the molten resin up to the gap is formed by using one of the molded pieces forming the gap of the opposed surfaces that are adjacently arranged or abut against each other.

Method and apparatus for removing and replacing a wiper blade assembly and a corona grid in a toner cartridge

A method and apparatus for the removal and replacement of a wiper blade assembly in a toner cartridge wherein a first end of the wiper blade includes a projection or "tab" that is captured in a slot formed in the sidewall of the toner cartridge housing. The slot in the sidewall has a forward edge, a rear edge, an upper region, and a lower region. The method includes forming a first cut through the cartridge sidewall from a forward edge of the sidewall to the upper region of the slot. A second cut is made through the sidewall from the forward edge to the lower region of the slot. A waste section of the sidewall defined by the first and second cuts, the sidewall forward edge, and the slot is removed and discarded. The first end of the wiper blade assembly is moved forward, away from slot rear edge, and is pulled upwardly and out of the waste toner hopper region of the cartridge. A replacement wiper blade assembly is operatively positioned in place of the original wiper blade assembly with ...

Process cartridge and image forming apparatus having the same

A process cartridge usable with an image forming apparatus includes a developing member, a photosensitive medium to face the developing member, a pair of supporting plates to rotatably support the developing member and the photosensitive medium; a center moving member rotatably disposed on the supporting plate, the center moving member having a first position in which the photosensitive medium contacts the developing member and a second position in which the photosensitive medium is spaced apart from the developing member; and a separation restraining member formed so that when the center moving member locates at the second position, the separation restraining member restrains the center moving member from moving from the second position.

Methods and apparatus for splitting a printer cartridge

Techniques are provided for splitting a printer cartridge. In one aspect, a cartridge splitter includes guide rails for supporting a toner cartridge having a first portion and a second portion. A first cutting blade is disposed in a first plane of operation for cutting the toner cartridge along the first plane as the toner cartridge is moved along the guide rails. A second cutting blade disposed in a second plane of operation for cutting the toner cartridge along the second plane as the toner cartridge is moved along the guide rails, said second plane of operation offset from the first plane of operation by a predetermined distance such that the cutting of the toner cartridge along the first plane and the second plane separates the first portion from the second portion.

DEVELOPING UNIT AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS HAVING THE SAME

Disclosed are a developing unit and an image forming apparatus having the same. The developing unit includes a partition frame provided separately from the housing of the developing unit. The partition frame is supported within the housing of the developing unit in such a manner to define a path of movement of developer within the housing through an opening formed in the partition frame. A removable sealing member is detachably arranged on the partition frame to prevent developer leakage during storage or transporting of the developing unit. The installation of the removable sealing member is made easier by the partition frame provided separately from the housing.

Process cartridge, assembling method for process cartridge and electrophotographic image forming apparatus

A process cartridge detachably mountable to a main assembly of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, includes a cartridge frame; an electrophotographic photosensitive drum (7) having a cylinder (7a) and a photosensitive layer thereon; process means actable on said photosensitive drum; a drum shaft (30) for rotatably supporting said photosensitive drum (7) on said cartridge frame, said drum shaft (30) extending through said photosensitive drum (7) and having a length enough to be supported by said cartridge frame at one end thereof and at the other end thereof; a preventing member for preventing said drum shaft from disengaging from said cartridge frame.

現像装置の再生産方法、プロセスカートリッジの再生産方法、現像装置、及び、プロセスカートリッジ

ПРОЯВЛЯЮЩИЙ КАРТРИДЖ И ЭЛЕКТРОГРАФИЧЕСКОЕ УСТРОЙСТВО ФОРМИРОВАНИЯ ИЗОБРАЖЕНИЯ

Заявленный технологический картридж, выполненный с возможностью съемной установки в основной узел электрофотографического устройства формирования изображения, включает в себя электрофотографический светочувствительный барабан; проявляющий валик для проявления электростатического скрытого изображения; раму барабана, поддерживающую указанный электрофотографический светочувствительный барабан; проявляющую раму, поддерживающую указанный проявляющий валик. Проявляющая рама выполнена с возможностью перемещения относительно указанной рамы барабана и способна принимать контактирующее положение, в котором указанный проявляющий валик контактирует с указанным электрофотографическим светочувствительным барабаном, и отстоящее положение, в котором указанный проявляющий валик отстоит от указанного электрофотографического светочувствительного барабана. Устройство, воспринимающее силу, которое включает в себя первый участок, воспринимающий силу, для восприятия первой внешней силы, и второй участок, воспринимающий ...

Устройство подачи, технологический картридж и устройство формирования изображения

СПОСОБЫ СНЯТИЯ И УСТАНОВКИ СОЕДИНИТЕЛЬНОГО ЭЛЕМЕНТА И БЛОК ЭЛЕКТРОФОТОГРАФИЧЕСКОГО СВЕТОЧУВСТВИТЕЛЬНОГО БАРАБАНА

Данная группа заявленных изобретений относится к способу снятия соединительного элемента, способу установки соединительного элемента и блоку электрофотографического светочувствительного барабана, используемому для технологического картриджа, устанавливаемого с возможностью снятия в основной узел электрофотографического устройства формирования изображения. Предложены способы снятия соединительного элемента, предназначенные для снятия с фланца барабана, установленного на электрофотографический светочувствительный барабан, используемый с технологическим картриджем, устанавливаемым с возможностью снятия в основной узел электрофотографического устройства формирования изображения, соединительного элемента для восприятия вращающей силы, предназначенной для вращения электрофотографического светочувствительного барабана, от основного узла устройства в состоянии, в котором технологический картридж установлен в основной узел устройства, а также способ установки соединительного элемента, блок электрофотографического ...

БЛОК ЭЛЕКТРОФОТОГРАФИЧЕСКОГО СВЕТОЧУВСТВИТЕЛЬНОГО БАРАБАНА

БЛОК ЭЛЕКТРОФОТОГРАФИЧЕСКОГО СВЕТОЧУВСТВИТЕЛЬНОГО БАРАБАНА

... 1. Блок электрофотографического светочувствительного барабана, содержащий:(i) цилиндр, имеющий светочувствительный слой на его внешней периферии;(ii) фланец барабана, установленный на продольной концевой части упомянутого цилиндра для удерживания, внутри него, соединительного элемента, который выполнен с возможностью поворота относительно оси упомянутого цилиндра; и(iii) стопорящую часть для предотвращения расцепления упомянутого соединительного элемента с упомянутым фланцем, причем упомянутая стопорящая часть является деформируемой радиально наружу от упомянутого фланца, чтобы позволить осуществить установку или снятие упомянутого соединительного элемента относительно упомянутого фланца.2. Блок по п. 1, в котором упомянутый фланец выполнен с выемкой, находящейся снаружи от упомянутой стопорящей части относительно радиального направления.3. Блок по п. 2, в котором упомянутый фланец выполнен с выступающей частью, которая выступает радиально внутрь от упомянутого фланца, причем упомянутая ...

Prozesskassette und Bilderzeugungssystem mit einbaubarer Prozesskassette

SYSTEM AND PROCEDURE FOR THE SUPPLY OF A SIMPLIFYING IMPROVEMENT FOR IMAGING EQUIPMENT WITH A REMOVABLE UNIT

CARTRIDGE FOR PICTURE RECORDING DEVICE

PROCEDURE FOR THE RE-USABLE MAKING OF WEGWERFKARTU FOR PHOTOCOPYING MACHINES AND LASER PRINTERS.

CARTRIDGE AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

DISMOUNTING AND MOUNTING METHODS FOR COUPLING AND ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC PHOTOSENSITIVE DRUM UNIT

A coupling member dismounting method for dismounting, from a drum flange (21) mounted to an electrophotographic photosensitive drum, a coupling member (150) for receiving a rotating force for rotating the drum, the method including (i) an inclining step of inclining the coupling member relative to a rotational axis of the drum flange, wherein the coupling member includes a rotating force receiving member having and a spherical portion (160) mounted to a rear end portion of the rotating force receiving member by a pin penetration (155); (ii) a pin urging step of pushing the pin (155) from one end to the other end thereof, (iii) a pin riding step of making a part of the pin which is further projected at the end by the pin urging step ride on a second surface; (iv) a coupling member dismounting step of dismounting the coupling member from the drum flange by applying a force to a free end portion of the coupling member toward a fulcrum which is the portion of the pin riding on the second surface ...

INTEGRATED TONER CARTRIDGE WITH TONER AGITATOR AND SENSING DEVICE

A toner cartridge with a uni-body construction reduces the cost of production as well as reducing the chance of failure during use. The toner cartridge includes a waste bin having a leading end that can be sculpted to mate with the cartridge-receiving cavities of a large number of printers. Additional improvements include an improved toner sifting agitator. The sifting action ensures that toner stays sufficiently fluid, and distributes evenly on the toner adder roller.

СПОСОБ ВОССТАНОВЛЕНИЯ КАРТРИДЖА ДЛЯ ПЕЧАТИ ИЗОБРАЖЕНИЙ (ВАРИАНТЫ)

В изобретении предложены способы восстановления картриджа для печати изображений, включающие замену вращающегося элемента (400), например фотобарабана с органическим фотопроводником (ОФП) или вала подачи тонера в картридже для печати изображений, не отсоединяя держатели (118, 120) вращающегося элемента, например торцевые крышки, и установку запасного вращающегося элемента (400), не снимая торцевые крышки держателей (118, 120) вращающегося элемента.

perezapravlennyitonernyi cartridge, having increase nnyi resource printing

СИСТЕМЫ И СПОСОБЫ ПЕРЕДЕЛКИ УСТРОЙСТВ, ФОРМИРУЮЩИХ ИЗОБРАЖЕНИЕ

Способ модификации формирующего изображение картриджа включает обеспечение наличия картриджа, содержащего корпус с держателем для установки электронной схемы, и создание модифицированного держателя, размеры которого позволяют установить в нем заменяющую электронную схему, по меньшей мере один размер которой может быть больше соответствующего размера электронной схемы.

패키징된 카트리지

... 화상 형성 장치에 착탈 가능한 패키징된 카트리지는, (i) 파지부가 설치된 카트리지, (ii) 카트리지를 수납하는 프레임부 -상기 프레임부는 개구 및 오목부를 포함하여 파지부는 개구를 통해 파지될 수 있도록 노출됨-, 및 (iii) 카트리지가 오목부에 수납된 상태에서, 개구가 개방되는 개방 위치와, 개구가 폐쇄되는 폐쇄 위치 사이에서 프레임부에 대하여 이동 가능한 캡부를 포함한다. 카트리지와 프레임부의 내면 사이에 간극이 제공되어, 패키징된 카트리지의 캡부측을 아래로 한 상태에서, 프레임부가 캡부에 대하여 개방 방향으로 이동될 때, 카트리지가 프레임부의 내면과 간섭한다.

Systems and Methods for Remanufacturing Imaging Components

PROCESS CARTRIDGE, IMAGE FORMING DEVICE, AND INTERMEDIATE TRANSFER BELT

PURPOSE: A process cartridge, an image-forming apparatus, and an intermediate transfer belt are provided to cut down expenses by replacing and maintaining conveniently and reducing the size. CONSTITUTION: A process cartridge integrally supports a cylindrical latent-image-bearing member on which a toner image is formed and an intermediate transfer belt(5). The toner image is primarily transferred and secondarily transported to a transfer medium. To prevent the friction charge of a photosensitive member during transportation, the cartridge satisfies any of requirements that the latent-image-bearing member has a surface potential of -200V to 200V when the intermediate transfer belt and the photosensitive member are rubbed with each other. The photosensitive member has the surface potential of -200V to 200V when a spacer member is provided between the intermediate transfer belt and the latent-image-bearing member, and the intermediate transfer belt and the latent-image bearing member are rubbed ...

WASH FRAME, PROCESS CARTRIDGE EQUIPPED WITH WASH FRAME, ELECTROPHOTOGRAPH TYPE IMAGE FORMATION DEVICE CAPABLE OF ATTACHING/DETACHING PROCESS CARTRIDGE

PURPOSE: In the electro photograph type image formation device, a wash frame difficult to be deformed by heat, a process cartridge equipped with the wash frame and an electro photograph type image formation device capable of attaching and detaching the process cartridge are provided. CONSTITUTION: In a process cartridge, a photosensitive drum(7), a wash roller(8), a developing means(9), and a wash means(10) are contained in the housing made by coupling a toner frame(11) with a developing frame(12) to form an assembly and a wash frame(13) additionally to the assembly rotatively. A toner supply member(9b) is attached to the toner frame(11) so to be rotated. A developing roller(9c) and a developing blade(9d) are attached to the developing frame(12), a toner member stirring(9e,9f) is attached around the developing roller(9c). An antenna rod(9h) is attached almost horizontally with the developing roller(9c). The toner frame(11) is welded to the developing frame(12) to form an integrated developing ...

PACKING MEMBER AND CARTRIDGE PACKED IN THE PACKING MEMBER

A packing member for packing a cartridge detachably mountable to an image forming apparatus is molded with a thin resin material plate and includes: (i) a frame portion including an opening as an entrance for the cartridge, a first recessed portion for accommodating the cartridge, and a first limiting portion for limiting a position of the cartridge with respect to a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the cartridge; and (ii) a cap portion for openably covering the opening. The cap portion includes a second limiting portion for limiting movement of the cartridge, positionally-limited by the first limiting portion, in a direction in which the cartridge is spaced from the first limiting portion.

Method of remanufacturing cartridge and remanufactured cartridge

A method of remanufacturing a cartridge detachably mountable in an electrophotographic image-forming apparatus body and composed of styrene-based resin compositions at least in part, characterized by including the steps of: (1) dividing the cartridge into at least two parts; and (2) bonding at least one of the divided parts with another one of the divided parts and/or a component other than the divided parts by use of a terpene solvent.

Process cartridge

A process cartridge configured to be detachably installed to a main body of the imaging device includes a housing, and a photosensitive drum arranged in the housing. A drive coupler configured to receive a driving force from a drive head of the main body of the imaging device is provided at an end of the photosensitive drum. The process cartridge can be installed to the main body of the imaging device or be detached from the main body of the imaging device in a manner that the photosensitive drum rotation axis forms a variable included angle with respect to the drive head rotation axis. The installation of the process cartridge is facilitated, and the engagement of the drive coupler with the drive head of the imaging device is facilitated.

Toner tank seal

This invention provides a seal for the tank/developer section of a two-piece toner cartridge that is applied externally to the section at the opening of the developer roller, where it is intended to confront the drum in the fully assembled cartridge. The seal assembly includes a resilient seal member, illustratively constructed from a stiffening bar that caps a resilient/pliable foam or another elastomer. The foam impinges on the doctor blade where it meets the developer roller, to bias the doctor blade against the developer roller and seal this region against the exit of toner. The foam and stiffening bar have an elongated length that matches the developer opening so that this region is fully sealed along its length. The stiffener is flexibly attached to a sheet material. The sheet is secured to the cartridge surface at a respective edge on each side by releasable adhesive.

System for analyzing an organic photoconducting drum and a method thereof

A system for analyzing an organic photo conducting drum includes an identification system, a feature examination system, and an evaluation processing system. The identification system identifies one or more characteristic relating to the organic photo conducting drum. The feature examination system examines one or more features of the organic photo conducting drum. The evaluation processing system provides an analysis of the organic photo conducting drum based on the identified one or more characteristics and the examined one or more features.

Flame retardant composition

The present invention provides a flame retardant composition including a flame retardant that is extracted from a plant and can exhibit high flame retardancy. The flame retardant composition includes a flame retardant compound represented by Formula (1) and polybutylene terephthalate. The content of the flame retardant compound is 12% by weight or more and 15% by weight or less based on the total weight of the flame retardant compound and the polybutylene terephthalate. In Formula (1), R1to R3represent substituents.

Image forming apparatus, process cartridge, and recycling method

A first developer storage unit 116a is provided under a horizontal line which is extended from a latent image writing position “P” where a latent image is written in an image carrier 44, and a developer-storing housing unit 70 is provided above the horizontal line extended from the latent image writing position of the image carrier. Since a stirring/transporting member is rotatably supported in a stirring/transporting member hole 115a which is formed in this developer-storing housing unit 70, a second developer storage unit is constructed.

REGENERATED ELASTIC ROLLER MANUFACTURING PROCESS, REGENERATED ELASTIC ROLLER, ELECTROPOHOTOGRAPHIC PROCESS CARTRIDGE, AND ELECTROPOHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

A regenerated elastic rollers manufacturing process is provided. The process includes the step of removing an agglutinated stain of toner adhered to the surface of an elastic roller including a mandrel and an elastic layer. The step further includes the steps of: (1) pressing a pressing roller against the surface of the elastic roller so as to crack the agglutinated stain on the surface of the elastic roller; and (2) removing the agglutinated stain cracked in the step (1) from the surface of the elastic roller by means of an adhesive roller.

Packaging box and packaging form of toner cartridge

A packaging box includes a bending piece provided at an end part of the other end side of a tubular side plate of the packaging box, and pressed while being surrounded by a breakable line and a bending line so as to be broken and bent to the inside of the box along the breakable line. In the bending state, the bending piece is configured such that its distal end part is positioned at the other end side from a receiving area of an object to be packaged and inhibits movement of the object to be packaged to the other end side.

Method of remanufacturing process cartridge and developing device

A method of remanufacturing a process cartridge includes a step of removing a pin to thereby separate a drum unit and a developing container, a step of separating a developing frame and a developer frame from each other to thereby separate the developing container, a step of resupplying the developer to a developer containing portion of the developer frame, a step of superposing a reseal member on end portion seal members provided at lengthwise one end and other end of a developer supply opening for supplying the developer contained in a developer containing portion to a developing roller, and interposing the reseal member on each of widthwise one end and other end of the developer supply opening along the lengthwise direction of the developer supply opening, and reuniting the developing frame and the developer frame, and a step of reuniting the reconstructed developing container and the drum unit.

METHOD OF MANUFACTURING DEVELOPER CONTAINER, DEVELOPER CONTAINER, DEVELOPING APPARATUS, PROCESS CARTRIDGE, AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

A method of manufacturing a developer container including a frame configured to define a developer containing portion, a first electrode, and a second electrode arranged on a surface of the frame and having a surface opposed to the first electrode, a developer amount in the developer containing portion being detected based on a capacitance between the first electrode and the second electrode, the method including: holding a conductive resin member constituting the second electrode on a mold configured to mold the frame, a surface of the conductive resin member being in contact with a surface of the mold configured to mold a surface of the frame on a side of the developer containing portion; injecting a resin to be formed into the frame, into the mold on which the conductive resin member is held; and curing the resin to form the frame to which the second electrode is fixed.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONVERTING A TONER CARTRIDGE PRINTER

A method of converting a CMYK Standard Color Printer to a CMYW Converted White Printer, comprising the steps: providing a CMYK Standard Color Printer; wherein a CMYK Standard Color Printer comprises: a black toner cartridge; wherein the black toner cartridge is installed in toner cartridge slot one; removing the black toner cartridge from the CMYK Standard Color Printer, such that the toner cartridge slot one is empty toner cartridge slot one; providing a white toner cartridge; wherein the white toner cartridge is configured to fit into the empty toner cartridge slot one; installing the white toner cartridge into the empty toner cartridge slot one; and providing raster image processor (RIP) software, such that the CMYK Standard Color Printer is configured to incorporate the white toner into one or more images printed by the CMYK Standard Color Printer in a single pass such that a CMYW Converted White Printer is created.

PROCESS CARTRIDGE, IMAGE FORMING DEVICE, AND ASSEMBLING METHOD FOR PROCESS CARTRIDGE

PURPOSE: To provide a process cartridge capable of sufficiently protecting an image carrier with a shutter member and improving the detection accuracy of the toner remainder concurrently, an image forming device capable of being fitted with the process cartridge, and an assembling method for the process cartridge. CONSTITUTION: This process cartridge is provided with an image carrier 7, a developing means 10, a toner storage section 10a storing the toner used by the developing means 10, a shutter member 28 movable to the protection position where the image carrier 7 is protected and the retreat position where the shutter member 28 is retreated from the protection position, and light transmitting members 23a, 23b provided on the toner storage section 10a along the moving path of the shutter member 28. The retreat position of the shutter member 28 is located at the position where the shutter member 28 is moved beyond the light transmitting members 23a, 23b. COPYRIGHT: (C)1995,JPO ...

ТРАНСПОРТИРУЮЩЕЕ УСТРОЙСТВО, ОЧИЩАЮЩЕЕ УСТРОЙСТВО, ПРОЯВОЧНОЕ УСТРОЙСТВО, ТЕХНОЛОГИЧЕСКИЙ КАРТРИДЖ И УСТРОЙСТВО ФОРМИРОВАНИЯ ИЗОБРАЖЕНИЯ

ПРОЯВЛЯЮЩИЙ КАРТРИДЖ И ЭЛЕКТРОГРАФИЧЕСКОЕ УСТРОЙСТВО ФОРМИРОВАНИЯ ИЗОБРАЖЕНИЯ

Проявляющий картридж, выполненный с возможностью съемной установки в основной узел электрофотографического устройства формирования изображения, включает в себя электрофотографический светочувствительный барабан; проявляющий валик для проявления электростатического скрытого изображения, сформированного указанным электрофотографическим светочувствительным барабаном; раму барабана, поддерживающую указанный электрофотографический светочувствительный барабан; проявляющую раму, поддерживающую указанный проявляющий валик, причем указанная проявляющая рама выполнена с возможностью перемещения относительно указанной рамы барабана и способна принимать контактирующее положение, в котором указанный проявляющий валик контактирует с указанным электрофотографическим светочувствительным барабаном, и отстоящее положение, в котором указанный проявляющий валик отстоит от указанного электрофотографического светочувствительного барабана; и устройство, воспринимающее силу, которое включает в себя первый участок ...

УЗЕЛ ПОЗИЦИОНИРОВАНИЯ И ТЕХНОЛОГИЧЕСКИЙ КАРТРИДЖ

Изобретение относится к технологическому картриджу, используемому в устройстве формирования изображений. Заявленная группа изобретений включает узел позиционирования, применимый к технологическому картриджу, и технологический картридж, предназначенный для установки с возможностью отсоединения в устройство формирования изображений. Причем узел позиционирования содержит позиционирующую рельсовую направляющую, соединенную с корпусом картриджа через поворотный вал и способную поворачиваться по отношению к корпусу вокруг оси вращения поворотного вала, при этом узел позиционирования дополнительно содержит поджимающий упругий элемент, содержащий один конец, упирающийся в позиционирующую рельсовую направляющую, и другой конец, упирающийся в корпус или торцевую пластину, расположенную на корпусе, и при этом ось вращения поворотного вала перпендикулярна направлению спереди назад корпуса и перпендикулярна верхней поверхности корпуса. Технический результат заключается в предоставлении легко устанавливаемого ...

Wiederaufbereitungsverfahren einer Prozesseinheit

Kunststoffgegenstand mit Öffnung

Detachable process cartridge

A process cartridge remanufacturing method for a process cartridge detachably mountable to a main assembly of an image forming apparatus includes the steps of providing a new photosensitive drum; providing a new toner-development frame including a new toner frame having a toner containing portion for containing toner, a new development frame having roller mounting portion for mounting a developing roller for supplying toner to said photosensitive drum, wherein said toner frame and said development frame are welded with a new removable toner seal therebetween for preventing the toner in said toner containing portion from leaking out; preparing a drum frame to be reused having a drum mounting portion for mounting the photosensitive drum; supplying toner into said toner containing portion of said new therefore; mounting the developing roller to said new development frame; mounting the photosensitive drum to the drum frame to be reused; rotatably engaging said new toner-development frame and ...

Process cartridge remanufacturing method and process cartridge

Process cartridge for image forming apparatus

A photoconductor drum assembly and a method of repairing a photoconductor drum assembly of a cartridge for a laser printer

REPROCESSING PROCEDURE OF A PROCESS UNIT

PROCEDURE FOR THE DISTANCE OF THE ILLUSTRATION DRUM LASERUND PRINTER ILLUSTRATION CARTRIDGE

PROCESS CARTRIDGE AND ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

A process cartridge detachably mountable to a main assembly of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, includes an electrophotographic photosensitive drum; developing roller for developing an electrostatic latent image formed on the electrophotographic photosensitive drum; drum frame supporting the electrophotographic photosensitive drum; a developing frame supporting the developing roller, the developing frame is movable relative to the drum frame and is capable of taking a contacting position in which the developing roller is in contact with the electrophotographic photosensitive drum; and a force receiving device including a first force receiving portion for receiving a first external force and a second force receiving portion for receiving a second external force, wherein the second force receiving portion is movable relative to the developing frame, wherein the second force receiving portion is placed in a stand-by position retracted from an operating position by the first ...

Process Cartridge Remanufacturing Method and Process Cartridge

Clean frame and processing box and dismountable electronic photographic imaging device with processing box

Method for reproducing used card box

Developing device, processing cassette, electric photographic imaging device and developer container and its assembling method

Processing box and its regeneration method, disassembling and assembling method, positioing and connecting unit

Positioning assembly and processing box

Developing unit and image forming apparatus having the same

Disclosed are a developing unit and an image forming apparatus having the same. The developing unit includes a first frame and a second frame. The first frame supports thereon a first set of processing members and includes at least one jig hole for mounting to a jig. The second frame supports thereon a second set of processing members. Several connection parts provided in the first and second frames allow assembly of the developing unit that includes a rectilinear movement and a rotational movement of the first and second frames relative to each other during the coupling together of the connection parts so as to couple the first and second frames together. The relative movement in certain direction of the frames may be limited during the relative rotational movement of the frames.

Packaged cartridge, packing material and cartridge

Procede de nettoyage et de remplissage de cassettes pour imprimante a laser

L'invention a trait a un procede de nettoyage et de remplissage de cassettes pour imprimante a laser comprenant deux reservoirs repartis de part et d'autre d'un tambour d'impression et contenant, respectivement, une composition active et une composition usagee. Ce procede de nettoyage et de remplissage est caracterise en ce que : - on realise une ouverture dans le reservoir 3 contenant la composition usagee; - on preleve cette derniere; - on procede, soit a l'usinage d'une ouverture 13 dans le reservoir 4 contenant, initialement, la composition active, soit au demontage dudit reservoir 4 de la cassette 1; - puis, on effectue le remplissage de ce reservoir 4 de composition active. L'invention a egalement trait a un outillage specifique pour la mise en oeuvre de ce procede. L'invention concerne l'industrie des imprimantes a laser.

PROCESS UNIT, A PHOTOSENSITIVE BODY CARTRIDGE, A METHOD OF ASSEMBLING A PHOTOSENSITIVE BODY CARTRIDGE AND AN IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS TO MAKE AN UPPER FRAME AND A LOWER FRAME EASILY ASSEMBLED AND SEPARATED

PURPOSE: A process unit, a photosensitive body cartridge, a method of assembling a photosensitive body cartridge and an image forming apparatus are provided to make an upper frame and a lower frame easily assembled with each other and separated from each other. CONSTITUTION: A photosensitive body cartridge can be attached separately to a body(2) of an image forming apparatus(1). An upper frame(53), placed on a lower frame(52), is capable of attachment to the lower frame. The upper frame includes an upper coupling part coupled to the lower frame. The lower frame includes a lower coupling part coupled to the upper frame. The upper and lower coupling parts are expanded to a direction, with facing to each other under the state that the upper frame is attached to the lower frame. The upper coupling part is overlapped with the lower coupling part when the upper frame is coupled to the lower frame. © KIPO 2005 ...

METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING DEVELOPER CONTAINER, METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING DEVELOPING APPARATUS, METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING PROCESS CARTRIDGE, AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a developer container including a frame configured to define a developer receiving part, a first electrode, and a second electrode arranged on a surface of the frame and including a surface facing the first electrode, wherein a developer amount in the developer receiving part is detected based on capacitance between the first electrode and the second electrode. The method for manufacturing a developer container includes the steps of: maintaining a conductive resin member constituting the second electrode in a mold configured to form the frame and touch a surface of the conductive resin member with a surface of the mold; injecting a resin formed in the frame into the mold in which the conductive resin member is maintained; and forming the frame to which the second electrode is fixed by curing the resin. Accordingly, the present invention can improve the detection precision of the developer amount. COPYRIGHT KIPO 2018 (AA) Signal ...

sistemas e mÉtodos para refabricar componentes geradores de imagens

Process cartridge and electrophotographic image forming apparatus

A process cartridge detachably mountable to a main assembly of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, includes an electrophotographic photosensitive drum; developing roller for developing an electrostatic latent image formed on the electrophotographic photosensitive drum; drum frame supporting the electrophotographic photosensitive drum; a developing frame supporting the developing roller, the developing frame is movable relative to the drum frame and is capable of taking a contacting position in which the developing roller is in contact with the electrophotographic photosensitive drum; and a force receiving device including a first force receiving portion for receiving a first external force and a second force receiving portion for receiving a second external force, wherein the second force receiving portion is movable relative to the developing frame, wherein the second force receiving portion is placed in a stand-by position retracted from an operating position by the first ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REMANUFACTURING IMAGING COMPONENTS

Systems and methods of remanufacturing an imaging cartridge including (100) the replacement an organic photo conductor (OPC) drum (108) in the imaging cartridge having end caps (114, 116) which are fixedly secured to the waste bin or other portion of the toner cartridge (100). In one aspect, the method involves removing the existing OPC drum (108) without detaching the end caps (114, 116) and installing a replacement OPC drum (108) without disturbing the end caps (114, 116).

ELECTRIC CONTACT FOR DRY TONER CARTRIDGE

An alternative electrical bias connection to the magnetic toner feed roller (33) in a dry toner cartridge is provided by an external contact member (10) attached to the doctor blade (31). A contact finger portion (12) of the contact member (10) makes an external rubbing contact to the outer surface of the toner roller. This additional bias connection, which is preferably made during the process of recycling or re-building an exhausted toner cartridge, overcomes problems of print density variation that occur with used toner cartridges in which the factory-installed contact (39) to the inside of toner roller (33) has become intermittent due to wear. The new contact, which extends the service life of toner cartridges by allowing more recharges, is both easy to inspect and easy to clean.

CARTRIDGE SYSTEM

A multi-cartridge system including a plurality of cartridge connectors configured to receive electronic cutting cartridges, and an externa! connector for operably connecting the electronic cutting cartridges to an electronic cutting machine. The cartridge connectors are in eSectrical communication with an external connector.

Process cartridge detachably mountable to image forming apparatus featuring a peripherally supported image bearing drum

A process cartridge detachably mountable to an image forming apparatus includes an image bearing drum; process device actable on the image bearing drum; a housing for accommodating the image bearing drum and the process device; and supporting means for rotatably supporting the image bearing drum at an outer periphery of the image bearing drum.

Process cartridge, electrophotographic apparatus and image forming method

The present invention provides a process cartridge detachably mountable on the main body of an electrophotographic apparatus, which integrally supports a photosensitive drum for bearing toner images, and an intermediate transferring belt having a contact part with the photosensitive drum. The moisture amount of the intermediate transferring belt at 23° C./50% RH is less than 1% by weight and the sum of the surface roughness Ra of the photosensitive drum and the surface roughness Ra of the intermediate transferring belt is less than 0.8 μm. The present invention also provides an electrophotographic apparatus having the process cartridge and an image forming method using the electrophotographic apparatus.

Image forming apparatus

When the acute angle between a normal line, oriented outward from a blade abutting portion of a photosensitive member over which a cleaning blade remains abutted before separation of the surface of the photosensitive member from the cleaning blade, and a horizontal plane, passing through the origin of the normal line, is expressed as a positive value when the normal line lies above the horizontal plane and expressed as a negative value when the normal line lies below the horizontal plane; an imaging unit frame so supports a photosensitive module that the photosensitive member can rotate to a specific rotational position having a greater angle than the angle at the time of separation of the surface of the photosensitive member from the cleaning blade. Until the photosensitive member rotates from a normal rotational position to the specific rotational position, the photosensitive module cannot be removed from the imaging unit frame.

Developing device and image forming apparatus

A developing device includes: a developer carrying member, rotatable while carrying a developer, for supplying the developer to an image bearing member; a developer supplying member, which is provided with a foam layer at its surface and is rotatable in contact to the developer carrying member, for supplying the developer to the developer carrying member; a first gear for transmitting a driving force to the developer supplying member; and a pressing member for pressing the first gear so that the first gear is, during initial drive of the developer carrying member, moved from a first position where the driving force is not transmitted to the developer supplying member to a second position where the driving force is transmitted to the developer supplying member.

Cartridge Having Detection Body

In a cartridge, a developing roller is configured to rotate around a first rotational axis extending in a predetermined direction and to carry developer thereon, the developing roller having a first end and a second end apart from each other in the predetermined direction, a from-first-to-second direction being defined along the predetermined direction as being directed from the first end to the second end. A developing electrode is formed of a conductive material and is configured to be electrically connected to the developing roller, the developing electrode including a main part and a protruding portion protruding from the main part in the from-first-to-second direction. A detection body is formed of an insulating material and is rotatably supported by the protruding portion, the detection body including a first opening that exposes part of the protruding portion and a covering portion covering part of the protruding portion.

Photosensitive Member Cartridge, Process Cartridge and Image Forming Apparatus Using the Same

A photosensitive member cartridge includes: a photosensitive member extending in an axial direction; a frame including a pair of photosensitive member receiving portions configured to receive axial end portions of the photosensitive member; and a pair of holding members configured to hold the axial end portions of the photosensitive member. The frame includes a first frame and a second frame separable from each other in a prescribed direction perpendicular to the axial direction and mating with each other such that the first frame provides a part of each photosensitive member receiving portion and the second frame provides a remaining part of each photosensitive member receiving portion. Each of the holding members is engaged with both of the first frame and the second frame.

Developing Cartridge Provided with Cover, and Process Cartridge Having the Same

A process cartridge including: a photosensitive member cartridge including a photosensitive member; and a developing cartridge including a developer carrier. The developing cartridge further includes: an inputting portion; a first cover; and a second cover. The first cover has a first engagement portion configured to move the developer carrier away from the photosensitive member. The first engagement portion is positioned between an axis of the developer carrier extending in an axial direction and an axis of the inputting portion extending in the axial direction, when projected in the axial direction. The second cover has a second engagement portion configured to move the developer carrier away from the photosensitive member. The second engagement portion is positioned between the axis of the developer carrier and the axis of the inputting portion, when projected in the axial direction.

Universal Print Cartridge Modification

A method of modifying a printer cartridge is disclosed. The modifications increase the versatility of an existing cartridge by enabling the cartridge to be transformed into a universal cartridge. The OEM print cartridges are restricted to use in a few or only one type of printer due to specialized gear side end plates and contact side end plates. End plates contain features or portions, such as bosses, which restrict the number of models of printer that a cartridge may be fit into. The features or portions may be removed by any combination of cutting, modifying, or replacing the gear side end or the contact side end plates. Removing the portions, removes the restrictions imposed by the end plates and allows the print cartridge to been fit into a greater number of printers. The universal cartridge may be used in the printer for which it is originally designed as well as another printer or printer family, thus increasing the versatility of the cartridge.

Cartridge, mounting method for coupling member, and disassembling method for coupling member

A cartridge is detachably mountable to a main assembly of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus. The cartridge includes coupling member that is provided for receiving a rotational force for rotating a developing roller, with a cylindrical member movably supporting one end portion of the coupling member inside of the cylindrical member, and a cylindrical member side force receiving portion being provided inside the cylindrical member for receiving the rotational force received by the coupling member. The cartridge further includes a first regulating portion for preventing one end portion of the coupling member from disengaging in an axial direction of the cylindrical member; and a second regulating portion for regulating deformation of the first regulating portion in a state in which one end portion of the coupling member is mounted to an inside of the cylindrical member with deformation of the first regulating portion.

Cartridge and unit

A cartridge detachably mountable to a main assembly of an image forming apparatus, includes: a rotatable member; a blade member contacted to the rotatable member; a frame, formed of a resin material, for supporting the blade member; and a seal member provided on the frame to be contacted to a portion of the blade member, opposite from a portion where the blade member is contacted to the rotatable member, in each of one end side and anther end side of the blade member with respect to an axial direction of the rotatable member, wherein the seal member is formed on the frame by injection molding for sealing a gap between the blade member and the frame.

Process Unit Having Drum Cartridge and Developer Cartridge

A process unit includes a photosensitive unit, a developer unit, a first urging member, and a second urging member. The first urging member urges the developer unit with a first urging force when the developer unit is in a contact position where a developing member contacts a photosensitive drum. The first urging member urges the developer unit with a second urging force greater than the first urging force when the developer unit is in a separated position where the developing member is separated from the photosensitive drum. The second urging member urges the developer unit with a third urging force smaller than the first urging force when the developer unit is in the contact position. The second urging member urges the developer unit with a fourth urging force smaller than the third urging force when the developer unit is moved from the separated position to the contact position. 1. A process unit comprising:a photosensitive unit provided with a photosensitive body;a developer unit provided with a developing member configured to carry developing agent thereon, the developer unit being configured to be moved between a contact position where the developing member is in contact with the photosensitive body and a separated position where the developing member is separated from the photosensitive body;a first urging member configured to urge the developer unit so as to move the developer unit from the separated position to the contact position, the first urging member being configured to urge the developer unit with a first urging force when the developer unit is in the contact position, whereas the first urging member is configured to urge the developer unit with a second urging force greater than the first urging force when the developer unit is in the separated position; anda second urging member configured to urge the developer unit so as to move the developer unit from the contact position to the separated position, the second urging member being configured to ...

Process Cartridge Having Cover for Protecting Photosensitive Drum

A process cartridge includes: a photosensitive member unit having a photosensitive member; a developing unit detachably mountable on the photosensitive member unit and having a developing roller; a movable member configured to move between a first position and a second position when the developing unit is mounted on the photosensitive member unit, the movable member at the first position permitting the photosensitive member and the developing roller to be in contact with each other and the movable member at the second position permitting the photosensitive member and the developing roller to be in separation from each other; and a covering member configured to cover the photosensitive member, the movable member being at the second position in a state where the covering member covers the photosensitive member. 1. A process cartridge comprising:a photosensitive member unit having a photosensitive member;a developing unit detachably mountable on the photosensitive member unit and having a developing roller;a movable member configured to move between a first position and a second position when the developing unit is mounted on the photosensitive member unit, the movable member at the first position permitting the photosensitive member and the developing roller to be in contact with each other and the movable member at the second position permitting the photosensitive member and the developing roller to be in separation from each other; anda covering member configured to cover the photosensitive member, the movable member being at the second position in a state where the covering member covers the photosensitive member.2. The process cartridge according to claim 1 , wherein the developing roller defines an axis extending in an axial direction and is configured to be separated from the photosensitive member in a separation direction perpendicular to the axial direction when the movable member is at the second position;wherein the developing unit has a first end portion in ...

PROCESS CARTRIDGE AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

A process cartridge includes: a first unit including a photosensitive drum; a second unit, including a process member, movable to a spaced position and to a close position; and a spacer member for holding the second unit at the spaced position. The spacer member includes a contact portion for holding the second unit at the spaced position and includes a portion-to-be-phase-determined for preventing rotation of the spacer member by being engaged with a phase-determining portion provided in the second unit. The spacer member is rotated, by receiving a force from the drum at the contact portion when the drum is rotated, against a force with which the phase-determining portion determines a rotational position of the spacer member, and eliminates a contact state of the contact portion with the drum to permit movement of the second unit from the spaced position to the close position. 1. A process cartridge detachably mountable to a main assembly of an image forming apparatus , comprising:a first unit including an image bearing member on which a latent image is to be formed;a second unit, including a process member actable on the image bearing member, movable to a spaced position where the process member is spaced from the image bearing member and to a close position where the process member is closer to the image bearing member than that at the spaced position; anda spacer member, rotatably provided in said second unit, for holding said second unit at the spaced position,wherein said spacer member includes a contact portion for holding said second unit at the spaced position in contact with the image bearing member or an end portion member provided at an end portion of the image bearing member with respect to a rotational axis direction of the image bearing member, and includes a portion-to-be-phase-determined for preventing rotation of said spacer member by being engaged with a phase-determining portion provided in said second unit, andwherein said spacer member is ...

Developing device, process cartridge and drum unit

A developing device for use with an image forming apparatus, includes: a developer carrying member for carrying a developer; a developer regulating member for regulating an amount of the developer carried on the developer carrying member; a first frame for supporting the developer regulating member; a fixing member for fixing the developer regulating member to the first frame; a second frame mounted to the first frame; and a molded resin portion formed by injecting a melted resin material into a space defined by the first and second frames. The molded resin portion is engaged with a first limiting portion provided as a part of the fixing member and projected into the space and is engaged with a second limiting portion provided as a part of the second frame to connect the first and second frame.

Toner cartridge having a shutter lock mechanism

A toner cartridge according to one example embodiment includes a housing having a reservoir for containing toner and an exit port in fluid communication therewith. A movable shutter is positioned at the exit port. A linkage is operatively connected to the shutter to open the shutter upon being actuated by a first engagement feature in the image forming device. The linkage includes a first linkage member positioned to receive the first engagement feature and a second linkage member connected to the shutter. An interlock is operatively engaged with the linkage and biased toward a locked position preventing the second linkage member from opening the shutter but permitting the first linkage member to move relative to the second linkage member. The interlock is movable to an unlocked position upon being actuated by a second engagement feature in the image forming device that permits the second linkage member to open the shutter.

PROCESS CARTRIDGE, ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS AND ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC PHOTOSENSITIVE DRUM UNIT

A process cartridge is detachably mountable to a main assembly of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus. The process cartridge includes a coupling member provided at an axial end portion of a photosensitive drum and rotatable about a coupling axis thereof so as to transmit a driving force to the photosensitive drum. The coupling member is capable of inclining relative to the photosensitive drum so that the coupling axis inclines relative to a drum axis, with the coupling member having a first end portion connected to the photosensitive drum, a second end portion, and a connecting portion between the first end portion and the second end portion. A maximum distance from the coupling axis to an outermost surface of the connecting portion along a line perpendicular to the coupling axis is less than a maximum distance from the coupling axis to an outermost surface of the second end portion along a line perpendicular to the coupling axis. 127-. (canceled)28. A process cartridge comprising:(i) a photosensitive drum rotatable about a drum axis thereof;(ii) a rotatable developing roller configured to develop a latent image formed on said photosensitive drum;(iii) a coupling member provided at an axial end portion of said photosensitive drum and rotatable about a coupling axis thereof so as to transmit a driving force to said photosensitive drum, said coupling member being capable of inclining relative to said photosensitive drum so that the coupling axis inclines relative to the drum axis, said coupling member having (iii-i) a first end portion connected to said photosensitive drum, (iii-ii) a second end portion, and (iii-iii) a connecting portion between said first end portion and said second end portion, wherein a maximum distance from the coupling axis to an outermost surface of said connecting portion along a line perpendicular to the coupling axis is less than a maximum distance from the coupling axis to an outermost surface of said second end portion along a ...

Developer container, developing device, process cartridge, image forming device, and developer refilling method

A first developer container delivers developer to a second developer container, the first developer container including a first opening to be engaged with the second developer container and to deliver the developer; and a conveyor to convey the developer and to deliver the developer through the first opening.

POLYESTER RESIN FOR TONER, TONER, DEVELOPER, TONER CARTRIDGE, PROCESS CARTRIDGE, AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

A polyester resin for a toner containing: a repeating unit derived from a dicarboxylic acid component; and a repeating unit derived from a dial component represented by Formula (1): 2. The polyester resin according to claim 1 ,wherein the diol component represented by Formula (1) is a reaction product of a difunctional epoxy compound and a rosin.3. The polyester resin according to claim 2 ,wherein the rosin is selected from the group consisting of a purified rosin, a disproportionated rosin and a hydrogenated rosin.4. A toner comprising the polyester resin according to .5. A developer comprising the toner according to .6. A toner cartridge accommodating the toner according to and detachably attached to an image forming apparatus.7. A process cartridge accommodating the developer according to claim 5 , comprising a unit for developing an electrostatic latent image formed on a latent image holding member with the developer to form a toner image claim 5 , and detachably attached to an image forming apparatus.8. An image forming apparatus comprising:a latent image holding member;a charging unit configured to electrically charge a surface of the latent image holding member;a forming unit configured to form an electrostatic latent image on a surface of the latent image holding member;{'claim-ref': {'@idref': 'CLM-00005', 'claim 5'}, 'a developing unit configured to develop the electrostatic latent image with the developer according to to form a toner image;'}a transferring unit configured to transfer the toner image to a recording medium; anda fixing unit configured to fix the toner image on the recording medium. This is a Continuation-In-Part application of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/296,494 filed in the United States on Nov. 15, 2011.This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 from Japanese Patent Application No. 2012-090444 filed on Apr. 11, 2012.1. FieldThe present invention relates to a polyester resin for a toner, a toner, a developer, a toner cartridge, ...

Process cartridge, developing device and image forming apparatus

A process cartridge detachably mountable to an image forming apparatus includes a rotatable developer carrying member, a rotatable developer feeding member, a rotatable developer stirring member, a developer carrying member gear, a developer feeding member gear, a developer stirring member gear, a transmission member for transmitting a driving force to the developer carrying member, the developer feeding member and the developer stirring member, wherein the transmission member includes a first gear for transmitting the driving force to the developer carrying member gear, a second gear for transmitting the driving force to the developer feeding member gear, and a third gear for transmitting the driving force to the developer stirring member gear, in which the first gear, the second gear and the third gear are integrally molded.

PROCESS UNIT AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

A process unit includes a photosensitive member that carries an image; a developing device that has a developer carrying member carrying a developer to be supplied to the photosensitive member; a rotating shaft that supports the developing device rotatably for approaching and separating from the photosensitive member; a photosensitive member gear provided to the photosensitive member; and a developing gear provided to the developer carrying member. The photosensitive member gear and the developing gear engage together and driving force can be transmitted, and the rotating shaft is placed on a driving force vector between the gears or on an extended line thereof, the driving force vector being generated from engagement between the photosensitive member gear and the developing gear. 1. A process unit comprising:a photosensitive member that carries an image;a developing device that has a developer carrying member carrying a developer to be supplied to the photosensitive member;a rotating shaft that supports the developing device rotatably for allowing the developer carrying member to approach and separate from the photosensitive member;a photosensitive member gear provided to the photosensitive member; anda developing gear provided to the developer carrying member, whereinthe photosensitive member gear and the developing gear engage together and a driving force can be transmitted, andthe rotating shaft is placed on a driving force vector between the gears or on an extended line thereof, the driving force vector being generated from engagement between the photosensitive member gear and the developing gear.2. The process unit as claimed in claim 1 , whereinthe rotating shaft is placed in such a manner that the driving force vector or the extended line thereof passes on a peripheral surface of the rotating shaft or passes through the inside of the peripheral surface.3. The process unit as claimed in claim 1 , whereinthe rotating shaft is placed at a position different ...

Image Forming Apparatus Having Developing Unit in Which Developing Device is Movably Disposed

An image forming apparatus includes: a main body; a photosensitive drum rotatably supported in the main body; a developing unit detachably accommodated in the main body in a direction along an axis of the photosensitive drum in a state where the photosensitive drum is disposed in the main body. The developing unit includes: a developer carrying member configured to carry developer for supplying the developer to the photosensitive drum; a developing frame supporting the developer carrying member; and a supporting assembly configured to support the developing frame such that, in a state where the developing unit is accommodated in the main body, the developing frame is movable between a proximity position where the developer carrying member and the photosensitive drum being positioned adjacent to or in contact with each other and a separation position where the developer carrying member and the photosensitive drum being separated from each other. 1. An image forming apparatus comprising:a main body;a photosensitive drum rotatably supported in the main body, the photosensitive drum defining an axis; and a developer carrying member configured to carry developer thereon for supplying the developer to the photosensitive drum;', 'a developing frame supporting the developer carrying member; and', 'a supporting assembly configured to support the developing frame such that the developing frame is movable between a proximity position and a separation position in a state where the developing unit is accommodated in the main body, the developer carrying member and the photosensitive drum being positioned adjacent to or in contact with each other when the developing frame is at the proximity position, and the developer carrying member and the photosensitive drum being separated from each other when the developing frame is at the separation position., 'a developing unit detachably attachable to the main body in an attachment direction along the axis of the photosensitive drum in a ...

IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS AND PROCESS CARTRIDGE

An image forming apparatus including at least a photoreceptor; and a cleaning blade formed of a strip-shaped elastic blade to contact an edge line to the surface of the photoreceptor, wherein the photoreceptor includes a surface layer comprising a particulate material, and the edge line of the cleaning blade includes a substrate of the elastic blade; a mixed layer having a thickness not less than 1.0 μm, formed of the substrate and at least one of an acrylic resin and a methacrylic resin, located at the surface of the substrate; and a surface layer having a thickness not less than 0.1 μm, formed of at least one of an acrylic resin and a methacrylic resin, located on the surface of the substrate. 1. An image forming apparatus , comprising:a photoreceptor;a charger configured to charge the surface of the photoreceptor;an irradiator configured to irradiate the surface thereof to form an electrostatic latent image thereon;an image developer configured to develop the electrostatic latent image with a toner to form a toner image;a transferer configured to transfer the toner image onto a recording medium;a fixer configured to fix the toner image on the recording medium; anda cleaning blade formed of a strip-shaped elastic blade and configured to contact n edge line to the surface of the photoreceptor,wherein the photoreceptor comprises a surface layer comprising a particulate material, and a substrate of the elastic blade;', 'a mixed layer having a thickness not less than 1.0 μm, formed of the substrate and at least one of an acrylic resin and a methacrylic resin, located at the surface of the substrate; and', 'a surface layer having a thickness not less than 0.1 μm, formed of at least one of an acrylic resin and a methacrylic resin, located on the surface of the substrate., 'the edge line of the cleaning blade comprises2. The image forming apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the surface layer of the cleaning blade has a thickness of from 0.5 to 1.0 μm.3. The image forming ...

IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS AND PROCESS CARTRIDGE

An image forming apparatus, including a photoreceptor; a charger; an irradiator; an image developer; a transferer; a fixer; and a cleaning blade formed of a strip-shaped elastic blade, removing a powder from the surface of the photoreceptor passing an edge line of the blade while contacting thereto, wherein the photoreceptor includes a crosslinked resin surface layer formed of at least one of an acrylic resin and a methacrylic resin, and the cleaning blade includes a contact point with the photoreceptor, including a substrate; a mixed layer formed of at least one of an acrylic resin and a methacrylic resin, located at the surface of the substrate; and a surface layer formed of at least one of an acrylic resin and a methacrylic resin, located on the surface of the substrate. 1. An image forming apparatus , comprising:a photoreceptor;a charger configured to charge the surface of the photoreceptor;an irradiator configured to irradiate the surface thereof to form an electrostatic latent image thereon;an image developer configured to develop the electrostatic latent image with a toner to form a toner image;a transferer configured to transfer the toner image onto a recording medium;a fixer configured to fix the toner image on the recording medium; anda cleaning blade formed of a strip-shaped elastic blade, configured to remove a powder from the surface of the photoreceptor passing an edge line of the blade while contacting thereto,wherein the photoreceptor comprises a crosslinked resin surface layer formed of at least one of an acrylic resin and a methacrylic resin, and a substrate;', 'a mixed layer formed of at least one of an acrylic resin and a methacrylic resin, located at the surface of the substrate; and', 'a surface layer formed of at least one of an acrylic resin and a methacrylic resin, located on the surface of the substrate., 'the cleaning blade comprises a contact point with the photoreceptor, comprising2. The image forming apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the ...

PROCESS CARTRIDGE AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS HAVING THE SAME

A process cartridge usable with an image forming apparatus includes a developing member, a photosensitive medium to face the developing member, a pair of supporting plates to rotatably support the developing member and the photosensitive medium; a center moving member rotatably disposed on the supporting plate, the center moving member having a first position in which the photosensitive medium contacts the developing member and a second position in which the photosensitive medium is spaced apart from the developing member; and a separation restraining member formed so that when the center moving member locates at the second position, the separation restraining member restrains the center moving member from moving from the second position. 1. A process cartridge usable with an image forming apparatus comprising:a developing member;a photosensitive medium to face the developing member;a pair of supporting plates to rotatably support the developing member and the photosensitive medium;a center moving member rotatably disposed on the supporting plate, the center moving member having a first position in which the photosensitive medium contacts the developing member and a second position in which the photosensitive medium is spaced apart from the developing member; anda separation restraining member formed so that when the center moving member locates at the second position, the separation restraining member restrains the center moving member from moving from the second position.2. The process cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the separation restraining member comprises:a rotation limiting portion disposed on the supporting plate to limit a rotation range of the center moving member; anda restraining protrusion formed on the supporting plate to restrain the center moving member from moving between the first position and the second position.3. The process cartridge of claim 2 , wherein the rotation limiting portion comprises a guiding groove formed on the supporting plate to ...

CARTRIDGE, MOUNTING METHOD FOR COUPLING MEMBER, AND DISASSEMBLING METHOD FOR COUPLING MEMBER

A cartridge is detachably mountable to a main assembly of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus. The cartridge includes coupling member that is provided for receiving a rotational force for rotating a developing roller, with a cylindrical member movably supporting one end portion of the coupling member inside of the cylindrical member, and a cylindrical member side force receiving portion being provided inside the cylindrical member for receiving the rotational force received by the coupling member. The cartridge further includes a first regulating portion for preventing one end portion of the coupling member from disengaging in an axial direction of the cylindrical member; and a second regulating portion for regulating deformation of the first regulating portion in a state in which one end portion of the coupling member is mounted to an inside of the cylindrical member with deformation of the first regulating portion. 1. A cartridge detachably mountable to a main assembly of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus , said cartridge comprising:a developer accommodating portion for accommodating a developer;a developing roller for developing an electrostatic latent image formed on an electrophotographic photosensitive drum with the developer accommodated in said developer accommodating portion;a coupling member for receiving a rotational force for rotating said developing roller from the main assembly, in a state in which said cartridge is mounted to the main assembly;a cylindrical member movably supporting one end portion of said coupling member inside of said cylindrical member;a cylindrical member side force receiving portion, provided inside said cylindrical member, for receiving the rotational force received from the main assembly by said coupling member;a gear, provided on an outer periphery of said cylindrical member, for transmitting the rotational force received by said cylindrical member side force receiving portion to said developing roller; ...

CHARGING MEMBER, ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, AND PROCESS CARTRIDGE

Provided is a charging member capable of stably charging an object to be charged while suppressing adhesion of toner or an external additive onto a surface of an elastic layer and compression set of an abutting portion of the elastic layer. The charging member is a charging member, comprising a mandrel; and an electro-conductive elastic layer, wherein: the elastic layer has a universal hardness decreasing from a surface toward a depth direction thereof; and the hardnesses at a central portion and both end portions in a longitudinal direction of the charging member satisfy the relationships: in the surface of the elastic layer, the hardnesses at the both end portions are higher than that at the central portion; and at a position having a depth of t (μm) from the surface of the elastic layer, the hardness at the central portion is higher than those at the both end portions. 1. A charging member , comprising:a mandrel; andan electro-conductive elastic layer,wherein:the elastic layer has a universal hardness decreasing from a surface toward a depth direction thereof; and with respect to the surface of the elastic layer, the universal hardnesses at the both end portions are higher than that at the central portion; and', 'with respect to a position having a depth of t μm from the surface of the elastic layer, the universal hardness at the central portion is higher than those at the both end portions., 'the universal hardnesses of the elastic layer at a central portion and both end portions in a longitudinal direction of the charging member satisfy the following relationships2. The charging member according to claim 1 , wherein a thickness of the elastic layer is 0.5 mm or more and 3.5 mm or less.3. The charging member according to claim 1 , wherein the depth t is 5 μm or more and 50 μm or less.4213. The charging member according to claim 1 , wherein a crown amount of the charging member is 60 μm or more and 220 μm or less claim 1 , provided that the crown amount is a ...

DEVELOPMENT DEVICE, PROCESS CARTRIDGE, AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

In a development device in which a developer containing unit underlies a development chamber, a supplying member in the development chamber forms a nip portion with a developer carrier and the developer carrier and the supplying member rotate in the direction in which their respective surfaces move from an upper end to a lower end of the nip portion. 1. A development device used in an electrophotographic image forming apparatus , the development device comprising:a development chamber including a developer carrier configured to carry a developer and develop an electrostatic latent image, a supplying member configured to be arranged to form a nip portion with the developer carrier and supply the developer to the developer carrier, and a regulation member configured to regulate an amount of the developer carried on the developer carrier;a containing chamber configured to be arranged under the development chamber and contain the developer; anda conveyance member configured to convey the developer contained in the containing chamber to the upper portion of the supplying member via an opening provided in the development chamber,wherein the development chamber is provided with a storage portion for storing the developer through under the regulation member to under the supplying member,wherein the supplying member is arranged so that apart or the whole thereof can be immersed in the developer in the storage portion, andwherein the developer carrier and the supplying member rotate in the direction in which their respective surfaces move from an upper end to an lower end of the nip portion.2. The development device according to claim 1 , wherein a lower end of the opening is lower than an upper end of the supplying member.3. The development device according to claim 1 , wherein a lower end of the opening is lower than a rotational center of the supplying member.4. The development device according to claim 1 , further comprising a transmission member that is provided in the ...

DEVELOPING DEVICE, PROCESS CARTRIDGE, AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

A developing device includes a developing chamber, a developer containing chamber located on the lower side of the developing chamber, a partition wall configured to separate the developing chamber and the developer containing chamber, an opening configured to allow the developing chamber and the developer containing chamber to communicate with each other, disposed on the partition wall, a developer conveyance member configured to convey developer from the developer containing chamber to the developing chamber by causing the developer to pass through the opening, disposed on the developer containing chamber. In the developing device, a convex portion which protrudes to the developing chamber side is disposed on the partition wall. 1. A developing device used for an image forming apparatus comprising:a developing roller configured to bear developer;a developer supply roller configured to supply the developer to the developing roller;a developer regulating member configured to regulate an amount of the developer borne by the developing roller;a developing chamber in which the developing roller and the developer supply roller are arranged;a developer containing chamber configured to contain the developer, located on a lower side of the developing chamber in a mounted state where the developing device is mounted on a main body of the image forming apparatus;a partition wall configured to separate the developing chamber and the developer containing chamber;an opening configured to allow the developing chamber and the developer containing chamber to communicate with each other, disposed on the partition wall;a developer conveyance member configured to convey the developer from the developer containing chamber to the developing chamber by causing the developer to pass through the opening, disposed in the developer containing chamber; anda convex portion configured to protrude to the developing chamber side, disposed on the partition wall.2. The developing device according ...

ELECTRO-CONDUCTIVE MEMBER FOR ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHY, PROCESS CARTRIDGE, AND ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS

An electro-conductive member for electrophotography, including an electro-conductive mandrel and an electro-conductive layer; and a process cartridge and an electrophotographic apparatus using the same. The layer contains a binder resin having a sulfo or a quaternary ammonium group as an ion exchange group, and an ion opposite in polarity to the ion exchange group. The resin has any one of structures represented by formulas (1)-1 and (1)-2, and any one of structures represented by formulas (2)-1 to (2)-3; and the resin has a molecular structure preventing occurrence of a matrix-domain structure. M represents an integer of 2-20, n represents an integer of 5-50, p represents an integer of 1-25, q represents an integer of 1-15, and r represents an integer of 1-12. 5. The electro-conductive member according to claim 1 , wherein:the binder resin has at least the structure represented by the chemical formula (2)-1; anda content of the structure in the binder resin is 30 mass % or less.6. The electro-conductive member according to claim 1 , wherein the binder resin has at least the structure represented by the chemical formula (2)-2 or the chemical formula (2)-3.7. The electro-conductive member according to claim 1 , wherein the ion exchange group comprises a quaternary ammonium group and the ion opposite in polarity comprises a sulfonylimide ion.8. The electro-conductive member according to claim 2 , wherein: the binder resin contains a structure obtained by linkingthe structure represented by the chemical formula (1)-1 andthe structure represented by the chemical formula (2)-3 with a linking group containing any structure selected from the group consisting of the structures represented by the chemical formula (3)-1 to the chemical formula (3)-4.9. A process cartridge claim 1 , comprising the electro-conductive member according to claim 1 , wherein the process cartridge is detachably mountable to a main body of an electrophotographic apparatus.10. An electrophotographic ...

DEVELOPING DEVICE, PROCESS CARTRIDGE, AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

A developer regulating member is rotatably supported. A distance from the rotation center of the developer regulating member to the center of a developer carrying member is more than a distance from the center of a shaft portion to the leading edge of an elastic member and the bending angle β of the elastic member which is calculated from β=PL/2EI is less than the set angle α of the elastic member with respect to the developer carrying member. 1. A developing device used in an image forming apparatus , comprising:a developer carrying member that carries a developer to develop an electrostatic latent image formed on an image carrying member;a developer regulating member that includes a plate-shaped elastic member, is rotatably supported, and brings the elastic member into contact with the developer carrying member such that a leading edge of the elastic member faces an upstream side, in a rotation direction, of the developer carrying member to regulate the amount of developer held in the developer carrying member; andan urging portion that applies a moment to the developer regulating member to bring the developer regulating member into pressure contact with the developer carrying member,wherein a distance from a rotation center of the developer regulating member to a center of the developer carrying member is set to be more than a distance from the rotation center of the developer regulating member to the leading edge of the elastic member, and{'sup': '4', "when a load received by the developer regulating member due to contact between the developer carrying member is P (N), a free length of the developer regulating member is L (m), a Young's modulus of the developer regulating member is E (Pa), a second moment of area of the developer regulating member is I (m), and an angle formed between the elastic member and a tangent line to the developer carrying member in a contact portion between the leading edge of the developer regulating member and the developer regulating ...

ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC PHOTOSENSITIVE MEMBER, PROCESS CARTRIDGE AND ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS, AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC PHOTOSENSITIVE MEMBER

Provided are an electrophotographic photosensitive member in which leakage doesn't easily occur, a process cartridge and an electrophotographic apparatus each including the electrophotographic photosensitive member, and a method of manufacturing the electrophotographic photosensitive member. The electrophotographic photosensitive member includes a conductive layer including titanium oxide particle coated with tin oxide doped with a hetero element. When an absolute value of a maximum current amount flowing through the conductive layer in a case of performing a test of applying −1.0 kV including DC voltage to the conductive layer is defined as Ia, and an absolute value of a current amount flowing through the conductive layer in a case where a decrease ratio of a current amount per minute reaches 1% or less for the first time is defined as Ib, the relations of Ia≦6000 and 10≦Ib are satisfied. A volume resistivity of the conductive layer before the test is 1.0×10Ω·cm to 5.0×1012 Ω·cm. 1. An electrophotographic photosensitive member , comprising:a cylindrical support;a conductive layer comprising a binder material and a metal oxide particle formed on the cylindrical support; anda photosensitive layer formed on the conductive layer, whereinthe metal oxide particle is a titanium oxide particle coated with tin oxide doped with phosphorus; [{'br': None, 'Ia≦6000 \u2003\u2003(i); and'}, {'br': None, '10≦Ib \u2003\u2003(ii),'}], 'when an absolute value of a maximum current amount flowing through the conductive layer in a case of performing a test of continuously applying a voltage of −1.0 kV comprising only a DC voltage to the conductive layer is defined as Ia [μA], and an absolute value of a current amount flowing through the conductive layer in a case where a decrease ratio of a current amount per one minute flowing through the conductive layer reaches 1% or less for the first time is defined as Ib [μA], the Ia and the Ib satisfy the following relations (i) and (ii); and'}{' ...

System and Methods for Remanufacturing Print Cartridges and Tracking Quality Thereof

Disclosed are a system and methods for remanufacturing print cartridges and tracking the quality thereof. The system and methods may provide a workstation that allows an operator to test, evacuate, clean, refill, and verify the success of a remanufactured print cartridge. The system and methods further provide for quality management of a remanufacturing process in which vendors and remanufacturers have access to data, including statistics on remanufacturing, product supplies, accounting, etc., creating a transparent market for buying and selling remanufactured print cartridges.

Refilled Toner Cartridge Having Increased Yield

Electronic systems, such as printing systems, often use components that have integral memory. The integral memory can be used to store information about the component. In some printing systems this memory includes a portion that stores a value indicative of a print yield. Disclosed is a method and system for allowing the memory to have data indicative of an increased print yield.

PROCESS CARTRIDGE AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

A process cartridge includes a drum, a rotatable roller including a first shaft end portion and a second shaft end portion, a bearing member for rotatably supporting ends of a shaft of the rotatable roller, an urging member for urging the rotatable roller via the bearing member in a drum contact direction, a cartridge frame for rotatably supporting the drum and for movably holding the rotatable roller via the bearing member, a movable guide member movable in an axial direction of the shaft of the rotatable roller and including a first contact portion, and a fixed guide member including a second contact portion. At least one of the first contact portion and the first shaft end portion, and at least one of the second contact portion and the second shaft end portion has an inclined surface inclined with respect to the axial direction of the rotatable roller. 118-. (canceled)19. A process cartridge detachably mountable to a main assembly of an image forming apparatus , said process cartridge comprising:a photosensitive drum capable of bearing a toner image;a charging roller for electrically charging said photosensitive drum;a bearing member for rotatably supporting an end portion of a shaft of said charging roller;a urging member for urging said charging roller via said bearing member in a direction in which said charging roller is contacted to said photosensitive drum;a cartridge frame for rotatably supporting said photosensitive drum; anda rotatable member, rotatably provided in a cartridge frame, for spacing said charging member from said photosensitive drum,wherein said rotatable member includes (1) a force receiving portion for receiving a force for spacing said charging member from said photosensitive drum and (2) a force applying portion for transmitting the force from to the end portion of said shaft of said charging roller, andwherein said rotatable member is rotated in a predetermined direction to switch said charging roller from a contact state with said ...

Methods and devices for remanufacturing printer cartridge components

There is provided a method for remanufacturing a printer cartridge component. The method includes providing a printer cartridge component having a flanged organic photoconductor (OPC) drum with a flange portion and a cylinder portion. The flange portion has a drum cylinder engagement end attached and inserted in a locked position with a flange lock in a first end of the cylinder portion. The method further includes unlocking the flange lock so that the flange portion is in an unlocked position in the first end of the cylinder portion. The method further includes securing the unlocked flange portion. The method further includes removing the cylinder portion from the secured unlocked flange portion to obtain a removed cylinder portion and a removed flange portion. The method further includes assembling the removed flange portion with a replacement OPC drum cylinder portion to obtain a remanufactured printer cartridge component. 1. A method for remanufacturing a printer cartridge component , the method comprising:providing a printer cartridge component comprising a flanged organic photoconductor (OPC) drum having a flange portion and a cylinder portion, the flange portion having a drum cylinder engagement end attached and inserted in a locked position with a flange lock in a first end of the cylinder portion;unlocking the flange lock so that the flange portion is in an unlocked position in the first end of the cylinder portion;securing the unlocked flange portion;removing the cylinder portion from the secured unlocked flange portion to obtain a removed cylinder portion and a removed flange portion; and,assembling the removed flange portion into a replacement OPC drum cylinder portion to obtain a remanufactured printer cartridge component.2. The method of further comprising installing the remanufactured printer cartridge component into a laser printer cartridge.3. The method of further comprising discarding the removed cylinder portion.4. The method of wherein the ...

Image Forming Apparatus Capable of Easily Drawing Image Forming Unit From Main Casing

An image forming apparatus includes: an image forming unit; exposure members; and a cover. The image forming unit includes a cartridge support member for supporting cartridges. The cartridge support member is movable relative to a main casing in a moving direction from an inside position inside the main casing to an outside position outside the main casing. The cover is movable from a first position to a second position such that the cover allows movement of the image forming unit from the inside position to the outside position. The cover includes a first wall and a second wall integral with the first wall. The first wall covers a top side of the image forming unit at the inside position when the cover is at the first position and supports the plurality of exposure members. The second wall covers a downstream side in the moving direction of the image forming unit at the inside position when the cover is at the first position.

Methods and devices for remanufacturing printer cartridge components

A method for remanufacturing a printer cartridge component is provided. The method provides a printer cartridge component having an assembled organic photoconductor (OPC) drum with a flange portion and a cylinder portion. The flange portion has a cylinder engagement end attached and inserted in a locked position with a flange lock in a first end of the cylinder portion. The method further unlocks the flange lock so that the flange portion is in an unlocked position in the first end of the cylinder portion. The method further secures the unlocked flange portion. The method further removes the cylinder portion from the secured unlocked flange portion to obtain a removed cylinder portion and a removed flange portion. The method further assembles the removed flange portion with a replacement OPC drum cylinder portion to obtain a remanufactured printer cartridge component.

Image Forming Apparatus and Developing Cartridge

A developing cartridge includes a case having a first sidewall and a second sidewall opposite to the first sidewall, and a developing roller disposed between the first sidewall and second sidewall. The developing roller can include a developing roller shaft and a developing roller member configured to carry a developing agent thereon, the developing roller member disposed around the developing roller shaft. Also, the developing cartridge can include an electrode disposed on the first sidewall adjacent to the developing roller shaft, the electrode electrically connected to the developing roller member, and a driven coupling disposed on the second sidewall. The electrode can include, an extending portion extending in a direction away from the first sidewall. An outermost periphery of the driven coupling defines a projection plane projecting in a direction towards the electrode, wherein at least a part of the extending portion is disposed within the projection plane.

ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC PHOTORECEPTOR, IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS, AND PROCESS CARTRIDGE

Provided is an electrophotographic photoreceptor including a conductive substrate having a centerline average roughness (Ra) of from 1.0 μm to 1.7 μm and a maximum height (Rmax) of from 3.0 μm to 4.0 μm as a surface roughness; and a photosensitive layer disposed on the conductive substrate, in which the outermost surface layer contains fluorine-containing particles. 1. An electrophotographic photoreceptor comprising:a conductive substrate having a centerline average roughness (Ra) of from 1.0 μm to 1.7 μm and a maximum height (Rmax) of from 3.0 μm to 4.0 μm as a surface roughness; anda photosensitive layer disposed on the conductive substrate,wherein the outermost surface layer contains fluorine-containing particles.2. The electrophotographic photoreceptor according to claim 1 , wherein the centerline average roughness (Re) of the surface roughness is from 1.1 μm to 1.5 μm.3. The electrophotographic photoreceptor according to claim 1 , wherein the centerline average roughness (Ra) of the surface roughness is from 1.2 μm to 1.4 μm.4. The electrophotographic photoreceptor according to claim 1 , wherein the maximum height (Rmax) is from 3.2 μm to 3.8 μm.5. The electrophotographic photoreceptor according to claim 1 , wherein the maximum height (Rmax) is from 3.4 μm to 3.6 μm.6. The electrophotographic photoreceptor according to claim 1 , wherein the thickness of the conductive substrate is from 0.4 mm to 0.7 mm.7. The electrophotographic photoreceptor according to claim 1 , wherein the thickness of the conductive substrate is from 0.4 mm to 0.5 mm.8. The electrophotographic photoreceptor according to claim 6 , wherein the conductive substrate is formed by an impact press processing.9. An image forming apparatus comprising:{'claim-ref': {'@idref': 'CLM-00001', 'claim 1'}, 'the electrophotographic photoreceptor according to ;'}a charging unit that charges a surface of the electrophotographic photoreceptor;an electrostatic latent image forming unit that forms an ...

PROCESS CARTRIDGE AND ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

A process cartridge includes an electrophotographic photosensitive drum, a frame for supporting the electrophotographic photosensitive drum, a developer roller for developing an electrostatic latent image formed on the electrophotographic photosensitive drum with a developer, and a developer supplying roller for supplying the developer to the developing roller. The process cartridge also includes first and second portions-to-be-positioned on ends of the cartridge, and a portion-to-be urged for receiving an elastic force. A developer supplying roller bias contact is provided exposed at an end side of the process cartridge for receiving a supplying roller bias voltage to be supplied to the developer side supplying roller, with the cartridge side developer supplying roller bias facing obliquely downward. 1. A process cartridge detachably mountable to a main assembly of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus including a movable member movable from an outside of the main assembly of the apparatus to an inside thereof while carrying said process cartridge , said process cartridge comprising:1) an electrophotographic photosensitive drum;2) a charging roller for charging said electrophotographic photosensitive drum;3) a first frame for supporting said electrophotographic photosensitive drum and said charging roller;4) a developing roller for developing an electrostatic latent image formed on said electrophotographic photosensitive drum with a developer,5) a second frame for supporting said developing roller, said second frame being rotatably connected with said first frame;6) a drum driving force receiving portion, provided on one longitudinal end of said electrophotographic photosensitive drum, for receiving a driving force for rotating said electrophotographic photosensitive drum from the main assembly of the apparatus in a state in which process cartridge is mounted to the main assembly of the apparatus;7) a developing roller driving force receiving portion, ...

Image Forming Apparatus and Process Unit Therefor

An image forming apparatus may include arrangement of a process unit, a fixing unit, and a discharge tray. In one example, the process unit, the fixing unit and the discharge tray may be arranged in such an order above a feed tray. The image forming apparatus may further include an exposure unit disposed at a position distinct from, in a sheet conveying direction, a position where the process unit is located. Additionally or alternatively, the process unit may include a developing unit. The developing unit may include a developing agent storage that extends beyond a photosensitive drum of the process unit in a direction opposite to a direction in which developing agent is conveyed from the storage.

PACKAGED CARTRIDGE, PACKING MATERIAL AND CARTRIDGE

A packaged cartridge detachably mountable to an image forming apparatus includes: (i) a cartridge provided with a grip portion; (ii) a frame portion accommodating the cartridge, the frame portion including an opening and a recessed portion so that the grip portion is exposed through the opening so as to be capable of being gripped; and (iii) a cap portion movable, in a state in which the cartridge is accommodated in the recessed portion, relative to the frame portion between an open position where the opening is open and a closed position where the opening is closed. Such a gap is provided between the cartridge and an inner surface of the frame portion that when the frame portion is moved relative to the cap portion in an opening direction with a cap portion side of the packaged cartridge down, the cartridge interferes the inner surface of the frame portion. 1. A packaged cartridge detachably mountable to an image forming apparatus , comprising:(i) a cartridge provided with a grip portion;(ii) a frame portion accommodating said cartridge, said frame portion including an opening and a recessed portion so that said grip portion is exposed through the opening so as to be capable of being gripped; and(iii) a cap portion movable, in a state in which the cartridge is accommodated in the recessed portion, relative to said frame portion between an open position where the opening is open and a closed position where the opening is closed,wherein such a gap is provided between said cartridge and an inner surface of said frame portion that when said frame portion is moved relative to said cap portion in an opening direction with a cap portion side of said packaged cartridge down, said cartridge interferes the inner surface of said frame portion.2. A packed cartridge according to claim 1 , wherein said cap portion includes a second recessed portion for forming a space claim 1 , for accommodating the cartridge claim 1 , together with the recessed portion when the opening is ...

ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC PHOTOSENSITIVE MEMBER, PROCESS CARTRIDGE, AND ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS

A charge-generating layer of an electrophotographic photosensitive member includes a phthalocyanine pigment and a specific tricyanoethylene compound. Alternatively, the charge-generating layer and/or an undercoat layer of the electrophotographic photosensitive member includes a specific tricyanoethylene compound, and the charge-generating layer includes the phthalocyanine pigment. 2. The electrophotographic photosensitive member according to claim 1 ,{'sup': '1', 'wherein, in the formula (1), Rrepresents an amino group substituted with a pyridyl group, a piperidyl group, an alkyl group, or an aryl group, or an aryl group substituted with a secondary amine or a tertiary amine.'}3. The electrophotographic photosensitive member according to claim 1 ,wherein the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) of the tricyanoethylene compound represented by the formula (1) is in the range of −3.2 eV to −2.9 eV, the LUMO being obtained from the results of molecular orbital calculation by density functional calculation at the B3LYP/6-31G level.5. The electrophotographic photosensitive member according to claim 1 ,wherein the phthalocyanine pigment is hydroxygallium phthalocyanine.6. A process cartridge detachably attachable to a main body of an electrophotographic apparatus claim 1 ,wherein the process cartridge integrally supports:{'claim-ref': {'@idref': 'CLM-00001', 'claim 1'}, 'the electrophotographic photosensitive member according to , and'}at least one device selected from the group consisting of a charging device, a developing device, and a cleaning device.7. An electrophotographic apparatus comprising:{'claim-ref': {'@idref': 'CLM-00001', 'claim 1'}, 'the electrophotographic photosensitive member according to ;'}a charging device;an exposure device;a developing device; anda transferring device.9. The electrophotographic photosensitive member according to claim 8 ,{'sup': '1', 'wherein, in the formula (1), Rrepresents an amino group substituted with a pyridyl group, a ...

Unit, cleaning unit, process cartridge, and image forming apparatus

A cleaning unit usable with an image forming apparatus includes a cleaning blade, supported by a frame and including a free end contactable to an image bearing drum, for removing a developer from the drum; a first seal provided between the frame and the blade by injection molding into the frame adjacent to a longitudinal end portion of the blade, the first seal being effective to prevent developer leakage; and a second seal provided between the drum and the frame in contact with the free end of the blade adjacent to the longitudinal end portion, wherein the first seal includes a seal portion contacting the blade, and a seat supporting the second seal, the seat being deformable to move the second seal to urge the second seal to the free end of the blade when the drum is mounted to the frame.

DEVELOPING MEMBERINCLUDING ELASTIC MEMBER CONTAINING CURED PRODUCT OF ADDITION -CURING SILICONE RUBBER MIXTURE. PROCESSING CARTRIDGE INCLUDING THE DEVELOPING MEMBER, AND ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS INCLUDING THE DEVELOPING MEMBER

A developing roller includes: a mandrel; an elastic layer provided for an outer periphery of the mandrel, the elastic layer including an addition-curing silicone rubber; and a surface layer provided for an outer periphery of the elastic layer, in which: the elastic layer includes a compound represented by the following formula (1); when the content of such a compound that n in the formula (1) represents an integer of 3 to 12 in the elastic layer is represented by P1, and the content of such a compound that n in the formula (1) represents an integer of 13 to 20 in the elastic layer is represented by P2, P1+P2 is 5,000 ppm by mass to 12,000 ppm by mass; and P1 is 1,500 ppm by mass to 6,000 ppm by mass (In the formula (1), n represents an integer of 3 to 20): 2. The developing member according to claim 1 , wherein the P1+P2 is 6 claim 1 ,000 ppm by mass or more and 11 claim 1 ,000 ppm by mass or less.3. The developing member according to claim 2 , wherein the P1+P2 is 7 claim 2 ,000 ppm by mass or more and 10 claim 2 ,000 ppm by mass or less.4. The developing member according to claim 1 , wherein the P1 is 2 claim 1 ,000 ppm by mass or more and 5 claim 1 ,500 ppm by mass or less.5. The developing member according to claim 4 , wherein the P1 is 2 claim 4 ,500 ppm by mass or more and 5 claim 4 ,000 ppm by mass or less.6. The developing member according to claim 1 , wherein the addition-curing silicone rubber mixture comprises the following component (A) claim 1 , component (B) claim 1 , and component (C):(A) an organopolysiloxane having, in a molecule thereof, at least two alkenyl groups bonded to a silicon atom;(B) an organopolysiloxane having, in a molecule thereof, at least three hydrogen atoms bonded to a silicon atom; and(C) a platinum-based catalyst.7. The developing member according to claim 6 , wherein the component (A) has a weight-average molecular weight of 20 claim 6 ,000 or more and 200 claim 6 ,000 or less.8. The developing member according to claim 1 , ...

ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC PHOTORECEPTOR, PROCESS CARTRIDGE, AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

Provided is an electrophotographic photoreceptor including a conductive substrate; a charge generating layer provided on the conductive substrate; a charge transporting layer provided on the charge generating layer; and an outermost surface layer provided on the charge transporting layer, wherein the charge transporting layer includes a charge transporting material and a polycarbonate copolymer having a solubility parameter as calculated by a Feders method of from 11.40 to 11.75, and the outermost surface layer includes a charge transporting material, fluorine-containing resin particles, and a fluorine-containing dispersant. 1. An electrophotographic photoreceptor comprising:a conductive substrate;a charge generating layer provided on the conductive substrate;a charge transporting layer provided on the charge generating layer; andan outermost surface layer provided on the charge transporting layer,wherein the charge transporting layer includes a charge transporting material and a polycarbonate copolymer having a solubility parameter as calculated by a Feders method of from 11.40 to 11.75, andthe outermost surface layer includes a charge transporting material, fluorine-containing resin particles, and a fluorine-containing dispersant.2. The electrophotographic photoreceptor according to claim 1 , wherein the polycarbonate copolymer has repeating structural units having a solubility parameter as calculated by a Feders method of from 12.2 to 12.4.4. The electrophotographic photoreceptor according to claim 3 , wherein the ratio of the repeating structural units represented by the general formula (PC-1) is from 20% by mole to 40% by mole claim 3 , based on the polycarbonate copolymer.6. The electrophotographic photoreceptor according to claim 5 , wherein the ratio of the repeating structural units represented by the general formula (PC-2) is from 35% by mole to 55% by mole claim 5 , based on the polycarbonate copolymer.13. An image forming apparatus comprising:an ...

ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC PHOTORECEPTOR, PROCESS CARTRIDGE, AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

Provided is an electrophotographic photoreceptor including a conductive substrate and a photosensitive layer provided on the conductive substrate, wherein an outermost surface layer includes a cured film of a composition containing inorganic particles having polymerizable groups and at least one selected from the reactive compounds represented by the following formulae (I) and (II): 7. The electrophotographic photoreceptor according to claim 1 , wherein the inorganic particles having polymerizable groups are inorganic particles surface-treated with a hydrolyzable silane compound having a polymerizable group.8. The electrophotographic photoreceptor according to claim 1 , wherein the polymerizable group of the inorganic particles having polymerizable groups is a functional group including at least one selected from an acryloyl group claim 1 , a methacryloyl group claim 1 , and a styryl group.9. The electrophotographic photoreceptor according to claim 1 , wherein the inorganic particles having polymerizable groups are at least one selected from silica particles having polymerizable groups and alumina particles having polymerizable groups.10. The electrophotographic photoreceptor according to claim 1 , wherein the inorganic particles having polymerizable groups are fumed silica particles having polymerizable groups.11. A process cartridge detachable from an image forming apparatus claim 1 , whereinthe process cartridge has an electrophotographic photoreceptor; and{'claim-ref': {'@idref': 'CLM-00001', 'claim 1'}, 'the electrophotographic photoreceptor is the electrophotographic photoreceptor according to .'}12. An image forming apparatus comprising:an electrophotographic photoreceptor;a charging unit that charges a surface of the electrophotographic photoreceptor;a latent image forming unit that forms an electrostatic latent image on a charged surface of the electrophotographic photoreceptor;a developing unit that develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the ...

DEVELOPING DEVICE, PROCESS CARTRIDGE, AND ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

A developing device includes a developer storage chamber configured to store developer to be supplied to the development chamber, a partition configured to separate a development chamber and the developer storage chamber and having an opening allowing communication between the developer storage chamber and the development chamber, and a protruding portion configured to protrude toward the inside of the developer storage chamber from the partition on a downstream side of the opening in the rotation direction of a rotating shaft, and within one turn of rotation of the rotating shaft, a receiving member moves while contacting the protruding portion according to the rotation of the rotating shaft. 1. A developing device used for an electrophotographic image forming apparatus , comprising:a developer bearing member configured to bear and convey developer used for developing an electrostatic image formed on an electrophotographic photosensitive member;a development chamber including the developer bearing member;a developer storage chamber configured to store developer to be supplied to the development chamber;a partition configured to separate the development chamber and the developer storage chamber and having an opening that allows communication between the developer storage chamber and the development chamber;a rotating shaft configured to be rotatable and provided inside the developer storage chamber;a conveyance member having an end portion on the inner side in a rotation radial direction of the rotating shaft attached to the rotating shaft, and according to rotation of the rotating shaft, configured to bear and convey the developer on a bearing surface, which is a surface on a downstream side in the rotation direction of the rotating shaft, and supply the developer to the development chamber via the opening;a receiving member having an end portion on the inner side in the rotation radial direction of the rotating shaft attached to the rotating shaft, and having ...

CLEANING BLADE, CLEANING DEVICE, PROCESS CARTRIDGE, AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

Provided is a cleaning blade including a contacting corner portion which comes in contact with and cleans a surface of a member to be cleaned moving relative to the cleaning blade, a tip surface which configures one side with the contacting corner portion and faces an upstream side of the surface moving direction, a ventral surface which configures one side with the contacting corner portion and faces a downstream side, and a rear surface which shares one side with the tip surface and opposes the ventral surface. 1. A cleaning blade comprising:a contacting corner portion which comes in contact with and cleans a surface of a member to be cleaned moving relative to the cleaning blade;a tip surface which configures one side with the contacting corner portion and faces an upstream side of the surface moving direction;a ventral surface which configures one side with the contacting corner portion and faces a downstream side; anda rear surface which shares one side with the tip surface and opposes the ventral surface,wherein, when a direction parallel with the contacting corner portion is set as a short direction, a direction of a side formed from the contacting corner portion to the tip surface is set as a longitudinal direction, and a direction of a side formed from the contacting corner portion to the ventral surface is set as a longitudinal direction,the cleaning blade further comprises:a contacting layer which configures a portion including the contacting corner portion, and in which a region where a ratio (T/W) of a longitudinal direction maximum length (T) and a longitudinal direction maximum length (W) satisfies a relationship equal to or less than 0.35, is equal to or more than 95% in a region contributing for cleaning in the short direction, and dynamic ultra microhardness is from 0.25 to 0.65,a rear surface layer which covers the rear surface side of the contacting layer in the longitudinal direction and the side opposite to the tip surface in the longitudinal ...

Image Forming Apparatus

An image forming apparatus includes a main body including a fixing portion, a cartridge including a photosensitive member, a transfer unit disposed facing the photosensitive member of the cartridge, and a separation member configured to separate the photosensitive member from the transfer unit and including a fixing portion. The cartridge is configured to be disposed in a first position in the main body where the photosensitive member is separated from the transfer unit and in a second position in the main body where the photosensitive member contacts the transfer unit. When the separation member is fixed in the main body by engagement of the fixing portion of the separation member to the fixing portion of the main body, the cartridge is disposed in the first position, and when the separation member is removed from the main body, the cartridge is disposed in the second position. 1. An image forming apparatus comprising:a main body including a fixing portion;a cartridge including a photosensitive member configured to carry an electrostatic latent image thereon, the cartridge being configured to be mounted in and removed from the main body;a transfer unit disposed facing the photosensitive member of the cartridge mounted in the main body; anda separation member configured to separate the photosensitive member from the transfer unit, the separation member including a fixing portion configured to engage the fixing portion of the main body,wherein the cartridge is configured to be disposed in a first position in the main body where the photosensitive member is separated from the transfer unit,wherein the cartridge is configured to be disposed in a second position in the main body where the photosensitive member contacts the transfer unit, andwherein, when the separation member is fixed in the main body by engagement of the fixing portion of the separation member to the fixing portion of the main body, the cartridge is disposed in the first position, and when the ...

CLEANING BLADE, CLEANING DEVICE, PROCESS CARTRIDGE, AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

Provided is a cleaning blade having at least a portion that comes in contact with a member to be cleaned is configured of a member that contains polyurethane rubber, and that has an endothermic peak top temperature obtained by differential scanning calorimetry in a range of from 180° C. to 220° C. 1. An cleaning blade wherein at least a portion that comes in contact with a member to be cleaned is configured of a member that contains polyurethane rubber , and that has an endothermic peak top temperature obtained by differential scanning calorimetry in a range of from 180° C. to 220° C.2. The cleaning blade according to claim 1 , wherein the polyurethane rubber contains a hard segment and a soft segment.3. The cleaning blade according to claim 2 , wherein a ratio of the hard segment to the soft segment “1” in the polyurethane rubber is 1:0.15 to 1:0.3.4. The cleaning blade according to claim 2 , wherein an average particle size of aggregates of the hard segment is from 4 μm to 20 μm.5. The cleaning blade according to claim 4 , wherein particle size distribution (standard deviation σ) of the aggregates of the hard segment is equal to or more than 2 μm.6. A cleaning device comprising the cleaning blade according to .7. The cleaning device according to claim 6 , wherein the polyurethane rubber contains a hard segment and a soft segment.8. The cleaning device according to claim 7 , wherein a ratio of the hard segment to the soft segment “1” in the polyurethane rubber is 1:0.15 to 1:0.3.9. The cleaning device according to claim 7 , wherein an average particle size of aggregates of the hard segment is from 4 μm to 20 μm.10. The cleaning device according to claim 9 , wherein particle size distribution (standard deviation σ) of the aggregates of the hard segment is equal to or more than 2 μm.11. A process cartridge comprising:{'claim-ref': {'@idref': 'CLM-00006', 'claim 6'}, 'the cleaning device according to ,'}wherein the process cartridge is detachable from an image forming ...

IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS, AND PROCESS CARTRIDGE

An image forming apparatus includes an image holding member, a developing device which accommodates a toner which contains at least one type of external additive having an average particle size of 0.02 μm or greater, and toner particles having a surface with the external additive externally added thereto, and forms an image developed with the toner on a surface of the image holding member, a transfer device which transfers the developed image formed on the image holding member onto a recording medium, and a cleaning device which is provided with a cleaning blade constituted by a member in which at least a part which is brought into contact with the image holding member has a dynamic micro hardness of from 0.25 to 0.65, and brings the cleaning blade into contact with the surface of the image holding member after transfer of the developed image to perform cleaning. 1. An image forming apparatus comprising:an image holding member;a developing device which accommodates a toner which contains at least one type of external additive having an average particle size of 0.02 μm or greater, selected from metallic soap particles and inorganic particles having an oil-treated surface, and toner particles having a surface with the external additive externally added thereto, and forms an image developed with the toner on a surface of the image holding member;a transfer device which transfers the developed image formed on the image holding member onto a recording medium; anda cleaning device which is provided with a cleaning blade constituted by a member in which at least a part which is brought into contact with the image holding member has a dynamic micro hardness of from 0.25 to 0.65, in which a maximum length of an area which is brought into contact with the image holding member in a driving direction of the image holding member is from 1 μm to 300 μm, and brings the cleaning blade into contact with the surface of the image holding member after transfer of the developed image by ...

ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC PHOTOSENSITIVE MEMBER, PROCESS CARTRIDGE, AND ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS

An electrophotographic photosensitive member includes a surface layer including a particular charge-transporting substance and a particular polyester resin having a particular repeating structural unit. The content of the particular repeating structural unit is 30% by mass or more based on the total mass of the polyester resin included in the surface layer. 4. The electrophotographic photosensitive member according to claim 1 ,wherein, the content of the repeating structural unit represented by the Formula (A) is 30% by mass or more based on the total mass of all resins included in the surface layer.5. The electrophotographic photosensitive member according to claim 1 ,wherein, the surface layer is the charge-transporting layer.6. A process cartridge detachably attachable to a main body of an electrophotographic apparatus claim 1 , wherein the process cartridge integrally supports:{'claim-ref': {'@idref': 'CLM-00001', 'claim 1'}, 'the electrophotographic photosensitive member according to ; and'}at least one device selected from the group consisting of a charging device, a developing device, a transfer device, and a cleaning device.7. An electrophotographic apparatus comprising:{'claim-ref': {'@idref': 'CLM-00001', 'claim 1'}, 'the electrophotographic photosensitive member according to ;'}a charging device;an exposure device;a developing device; anda transfer device. 1. Field of the InventionThe present invention relates to an electrophotographic photosensitive member and to a process cartridge and an electrophotographic apparatus that include the electrophotographic photosensitive member.2. Description of the Related ArtAn electrophotographic photosensitive member including an organic photoconductive material is the most widely used electrophotographic photosensitive member installed in electrophotographic apparatuses.In an electrophotographic process, the surface of the electrophotographic photosensitive member installed in an electrophotographic apparatus is ...

DEVELOPING CARTRIDGE INCLUDING FIRST AND SECOND INCLINED SURFACES, ELASTIC MEMBER, AND FIRST PROTRUSION

A developing cartridge includes: a casing; a developing roller; a shaft extending in a first direction; a first inclined surface; a second inclined surface; an elastic member; and a first protrusion. The shaft is movable in the first direction relative to the casing and the developing roller, and is movable in the second direction together with the same. The first inclined surface is positioned at one end portion of the shaft, while the second inclined surface is positioned at another end portion of the shaft. The first and second inclined surfaces are inclined relative to the first direction. The first protrusion is movable in the first direction together with the second inclined surface. The shaft is movable from a first position to a second position when the second inclined surface receives a pressing force directed in a direction from the another end portion to the one end portion. 1. A developing cartridge comprising:a casing configured to accommodate developer therein;a developing roller rotatable about a first axis extending in a first direction, the developing roller having an outer circumferential surface including one end portion and another end portion in a second direction, the one end portion being exposed to an outside of the casing, the another end portion being positioned inside the casing;a shaft extending along a second axis extending in the first direction, the shaft being movable in the first direction relative to the casing and the developing roller, the shaft being movable in the second direction together with the casing and the developing roller, the shaft having one end portion and another end portion in the first direction;an inclined surface positioned at the another end portion in the first direction of the shaft and movable together with the shaft, the inclined surface being inclined relative to the first direction such that a distance between the shaft and the inclined surface in a radial direction of the shaft increases in a direction ...

DEVELOPER FILLING METHOD AND DEVELOPER FILLING APPARATUS

A developer filling apparatus includes a bag setting portion where a developer bag in which a developer containing toner and a carrier is sealed is set, an accommodation case setting portion where a developer accommodation case for accommodating the developer is set, and a transfer path constructed to initially fill the developer accommodation case set in the accommodation case setting portion with the developer taken out of the opened developer bag while the developer bag is set in the bag setting portion. 1. A developer filling method comprising:opening a developer bag in which a developer containing toner and a carrier is sealed; andtaking out the developer from the opened developer bag and initially filling a developer accommodation case with the developer through a transfer path.2. The developer filling method according to claim 1 , the developer filling method further comprising vibrating the developer by a time when the developer accommodation case is filled with the developer.3. The developer filling method according to claim 2 , whereinin the vibrating the developer, the developer bag is vibrated with the developer being sealed in the developer bag.4. A developer filling apparatus comprising:a bag setting portion where a developer bag in which a developer containing toner and a carrier is sealed is set;an accommodation case setting portion where a developer accommodation case for accommodating the developer is set; anda transfer path constructed to initially fill the developer accommodation case set in the accommodation case setting portion with the developer taken out of the opened developer bag while the developer bag is set in the bag setting portion.5. The developer filling apparatus according to claim 4 , whereinthe transfer path includes a hopper portion constructed to store the developer taken out of the developer bag and a feed path constructed to feed the developer from the hopper portion to the developer accommodation case.6. The developer filling ...

Cartridge Configured of Two Units and Image Forming Apparatus that Accommodates the Cartridge

A cartridge mountable in an image forming apparatus includes a first unit that stores developer and a second unit that accommodates the first unit. The first unit includes a first detected part configured to be displaced irreversibly from a first-unit new-product position to a first-unit used position upon receipt of a driving force from the image forming apparatus, the first detected part contacting a detector provided in the image forming apparatus while being displaced from the first-unit new-product position to the first-unit used position to be detected by the detector. The second unit includes a second detected part configured to be displaced irreversibly from a second-unit new-product position to a second-unit used position upon receipt of a driving force from the image forming apparatus, the second detected part contacting the detector while being displaced from the second-unit new-product position to the second-unit used position to be detected by the detector.

Image Forming Apparatus and Process Cartridge

The image forming apparatus includes a drum cartridge having a photosensitive drum and a drum drive input member; a developing cartridge configured to be movably mounted to the drum cartridge, the developing cartridge comprising a developing roller disposed so as to face the photosensitive drum and a developing drive input member; a drum drive transmission member configured to engage with the drum drive input member and configured to transmit drum driving force to the drum drive input member while permitting a positional gap of the drum drive input member within a predetermined range; and a developing drive transmission member configured to engage with the developing drive input member and configured to transmit developing driving force to the developing drive input member while permitting a positional gap of the developing drive input member within a predetermined range. 1. A process cartridge comprising: a photosensitive drum; and', 'a drum coupling configured to rotate the photosensitive drum; and, 'a drum frame including a developing roller; and', 'a developing coupling configured to rotate the developing roller,, 'a housing configured to accommodate toner therein, the housing includingwherein the housing is movable relative to the drum frame between a first position and a second position,wherein a surface of the developing roller is in contact with a surface of the photosensitive drum in a state where the housing is at the first position, andwherein the surface of the developing roller is spaced apart from the surface of the photosensitive drum.2. An image forming apparatus comprising: [ a photosensitive drum; and', 'a drum coupling configured to rotate the photosensitive drum; and, 'a drum frame including, a developing roller; and', 'a developing coupling configured to rotate the developing roller,, 'a housing configured to accommodate toner therein, the housing including], 'a process cartridge includingwherein the housing is movable relative to the drum frame ...

DEVELOPING APPARATUS, PROCESS CARTRIDGE, AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING MOLDED ARTICLES

A process cartridge including a first frame member molded by pouring a resin from a gate; a conductive sheet adhered integrally to a sheet adhering portion of the first frame member by molding of the resin; and a second frame member configured to define a toner storage portion by being coupled with the first frame member, wherein, the first frame member includes a bent portion at the sheet adhering portion, and a portion of the first frame member different in thickness is provided at an adjacent position to the adhering portion. 1. A method of manufacturing a molded article having a conductive sheet adhered thereto comprising:inserting a conductive sheet between a first molding and a second molding;forming a cavity by mating the first molding and the second molding; andinjecting a resin from a gate,wherein the first molding or the second molding includes a shape configured to change a thickness of the cavity formed between a portion where the conductive sheet is inserted and the gate.2. The method of manufacturing the molded article according to claim 1 , wherein the shape is a projecting shape formed in the first molding or the second molding.3. The method of manufacturing the molded article according to claim 2 , wherein the shape further has a depression adjacent to the projecting shape.4. The method of manufacturing the molded article according to claim 1 , wherein the first molding and the second molding each include a shape for transferring a bent portion claim 1 , and the conductive sheet is inserted into the shape for transferring the bent portion of the first molding or the second molding.5. A method of manufacturing a molded article having a conductive sheet adhered thereto comprising:inserting a conductive sheet between a first molding and a second molding;forming a cavity by mating the first molding and the second molding; andinjecting a resin from a plurality of gates,wherein the first molding or the second molding includes a plurality of shapes each ...

IMAGE-FORMING APPARATUS AND CARTRIDGE

An image-forming apparatus includes a coupling recess to be engaged with a coupling protrusion to rotate the coupling protrusion, a second gear portion to be engaged with a gear to rotate the gear, and a driving force transmitter that is rotatable about a predetermined rotational axis. A torque required to rotate the gear is larger than a torque required to rotate the second gear portion in a state where the coupling recess does not engage the coupling protrusion. 1. An image-forming apparatus , comprising:a main body of the apparatus in which a cartridge including a first driven body, a second driven body, a first engaged portion to be engaged for receiving a driving force that causes the first driven body to be driven, and a second engaged portion to be engaged for receiving a driving force that causes the second driven body to be driven is installed; anda driving force transmitter that includes a first engaging portion engaging the first engaged portion to rotate the first engaged portion and a second engaging portion engaging the second engaged portion to rotate the second engaged portion and that is rotatable about a predetermined rotational axis,wherein a torque required to rotate the second engaged portion is larger than a torque required to rotate the second engaging portion in a state where the first engaging portion does not engage the first engaged portion.2. The image-forming apparatus according to claim 1 ,wherein the second engaging portion is a gear.3. The image-forming apparatus according to claim 1 ,wherein the first engaging portion is a coupling recess.4. The image-forming apparatus according to claim 1 ,wherein the second engaging portion is located farther than the first engaging portion from the rotational axis in a direction of a radius extending from a center that is on the rotational axis.5. The image-forming apparatus according to claim 1 ,wherein the second engaging portion is configured to engage the second engaged portion in a manner in ...

ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC MEMBER, PROCESS CARTRIDGE, AND ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

There is provided an electrophotographic member which suppresses scraping and contamination of a surface even in the durable use of multiple sheet printing under a high temperature environment. The electrophotographic member has an electroconductive substrate and a single elastic layer as a surface layer, the surface layer includes a binder resin and carbon black dispersed in the binder resin, the carbon black has a volatile content of 0.4% or more, the binder resin includes a crosslinked urethane resin and a crosslinked acrylic resin, and the surface layer has a first area in which the crosslinked urethane resin and the crosslinked acrylic resin form an interpenetrating polymer network structure, the first area being from an outer surface of the surface layer to a depth of 0.1 μm in the surface layer. 1. An electrophotographic member comprising: an electroconductive substrate; and a single elastic layer as a surface layer , whereinthe surface layer includes a binder resin and carbon black dispersed in the binder resin,the carbon black has a volatile content of 0.4% or more,the binder resin includes a crosslinked urethane resin and a crosslinked acrylic resin, and whereinthe surface layer has a first area in which the crosslinked urethane resin and the crosslinked acrylic resin form an interpenetrating polymer network structure, the first area being from an outer surface of the surface layer to a depth of 0.1 μm in the surface layer.2. The electrophotographic member according to claim 1 , wherein when the peak top temperature of the thermal chromatogram derived from the crosslinked urethane resin in the first area is defined as T1(° C.) claim 1 , and {'br': None, 'T1>T2\u2003\u2003(2).'}, 'the peak top temperature of the thermal chromatogram derived from the crosslinked urethane resin in a second area having a thickness of 0.1 μm from a back surface of the surface layer, opposing to the electroconductive substrate toward the outer surface is defined as T2(° C.), T1 ...

Image Forming Apparatus

An image forming apparatus, having a first photosensitive drum, a first developing roller, a first shifting member movable between a contacting position and a separating position, a motor, a first joint, a first clutch operable in one of a transmittable condition and a discontinuing condition, a first shifting cam rotatable between a first position, in which the first shifting cam locates the first shifting member at the contacting position, and a second position, in which the first shifting cam locates the first shifting member at the separating position, and a first switching cam rotatable between a third position, in which the first switching cam places the first clutch in the transmittable condition, and a fourth position, in which the first switching cam places the first clutch in the discontinuing condition, alongside the first shifting cam rotating between the first position and the second position, is provided. 1. An image forming apparatus , comprising:a first photosensitive drum;a first developing roller;a first shifting member configured to move between a contacting position, in which the first developing roller contacts the first photosensitive drum, and a separating position, in which the first developing roller is separated from the first photosensitive drum;a motor;a first joint configured to transmit a driving force from the motor to the first developing roller, the first joint comprising a first joint gear configured to receive the driving force from the motor, the first joint being configured to rotate about a first axis extending in an axial direction by the driving force received by the first joint gear;a first clutch configured to operate in one of a transmittable condition, in which the first clutch is transmittable of the driving force from the motor to the first joint gear, and a discontinuing condition, in which the first clutch discontinues transmission of the driving force from the motor to the first joint gear;a first shifting cam ...

IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

An image forming apparatus includes: a housing; a drum cartridge; a developing cartridge; a drawer movable between an inner position and an outer position; and a lock member provided on the drawer and movable between a lock position at which the lock member locks the drum cartridge to the drawer, and a release position at which a lock between the drum cartridge and the drawer is released. The lock member includes an operation portion for moving the lock member between the lock position and the release position. The developing cartridge includes a cover member that covers at least a portion of the operation portion in a state in which the drum cartridge is mounted to the drawer, and the developing cartridge is mounted to the drum cartridge. 1. An image forming apparatus , comprising:a housing;a drum cartridge comprising a photoconductive drum;a developing cartridge comprising a developing roller;a drawer movable between an inner position and an outer position, the drum cartridge being located in the housing when the drawer is located at the inner position in a state in which the drum cartridge is mounted to the drawer, at least a portion of the drum cartridge being exposed to an outside of the housing when the drawer is located at the outer position in the state in which the drum cartridge is mounted to the drawer; anda lock member provided on the drawer and movable between a lock position at which the lock member locks the drum cartridge to the drawer in the state in which the drum cartridge is mounted to the drawer, and a release position at which a lock between the drum cartridge and the drawer is released,the lock member comprising an operation portion for moving the lock member between the lock position and the release position,the developing cartridge comprising a cover member that covers at least a portion of the operation portion in a state in which the drum cartridge is mounted to the drawer, and the developing cartridge is mounted to the drum cartridge.2. ...

IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

An image forming apparatus includes: a housing; a process cartridge including a photoconductive drum and a developing roller; a toner cartridge containing toner; and a drawer movable between an inner position and an outer position. The process cartridge includes a lock member movable between a lock position at which the lock member locks the process cartridge to the drawer, and a release position at which a lock between the process cartridge and the drawer is released. The lock member is located at the lock position in a state in which the process cartridge is mounted to the drawer, and the toner cartridge is mounted to the process cartridge. The lock member is located at the release position in a state in which the process cartridge is mounted to the drawer, and the toner cartridge is removed from the process cartridge. 1. An image forming apparatus , comprising:a housing;a process cartridge comprising a photoconductive drum and a developing roller;a toner cartridge containing toner; anda drawer movable between an inner position and an outer position, the process cartridge being located in the housing when the drawer is located at the inner position in a state in which the process cartridge is mounted to the drawer, at least a portion of the process cartridge being exposed to an outside of the housing when the drawer is located at the outer position in the state in which the process cartridge is mounted to the drawer,the process cartridge comprising a lock member movable between a lock position at which the lock member locks the process cartridge to the drawer in the state in which the process cartridge is mounted to the drawer, and a release position at which a lock between the process cartridge and the drawer is released,the lock member being located at the lock position in a state in which the process cartridge is mounted to the drawer, and the toner cartridge is mounted to the process cartridge, the lock member being located at the release position in a state ...

ELECTROCONDUCTIVE MEMBER, PROCESS CARTRIDGE, AND ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

An electroconductive member for electrophotography has an electroconductive support and an electroconductive layer in the order mentioned. The electroconductive layer has a matrix including a crosslinked product of a first rubber, and a domain including a crosslinked product of a second rubber and an electroconductive particle. The impedance of the outer surface of the electroconductive member is 1.0×10to 1.0×10Ω). 80% by number or more of domains observed at each of a total of nine 15-μm square observation regions, which are disposed at any three points in a thickness region from the outer surface to a specific depth on each of cross sections in the thickness direction at three points: the center of the electroconductive layer in the longitudinal direction and points at a specific distance from the both edges of the electroconductive layer toward the center, satisfy specific requirements. 114-. (canceled)16. The process for producing an electrophotographic electroconductive member according to claim 15 , wherein a difference in an absolute value of solubility parameters between the first rubber and the second rubber claim 15 , is 0.4 to 4.0 (J/cm).17. The process for producing an electrophotographic electroconductive member according to claim 15 , wherein a volume resistivity of the matrix ρm is 1.0×10to 1.0×10Ωcm.18. The process for producing an electrophotographic electroconductive member according to claim 15 , wherein an average of a maximum Feret diameter Df of the domains included in each of the domains satisfying (1) and (2) is 0.1 to 5.0 μm.19. The process for producing an electrophotographic electroconductive member according to claim 15 , wherein an average number of the domains present in the 15-μm square observation region is 20 to 300.20. The process for producing an electrophotographic electroconductive member according to claim 15 , wherein the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the electroconductive particle to the cross-sectional area of each of ...

IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

An image forming apparatus includes an apparatus body including a main contact, and a main guide, and a cartridge including a memory contact, a moving unit moving into and out of the apparatus body in a first direction and including a frame to which the cartridge is attached, first and second protrusions protruding in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction from the end surface of the frame, an intermediate contact being in electrical contact with the memory contact, an unit contact being in electrical contact with the main contact, and a line conductor, the first protrusion being supported by the main guide of the apparatus body, the second protrusion being located above the first protrusion. At least part of the line conductor connecting the intermediate contact and the unit contact is located in a recess formed by the first protrusion, the second protrusion, and the end surface. 1. An image forming apparatus comprising:an apparatus main body including an electrical board, a main body electrical contact electrically connected to the electrical board, and a main body guide portion;a cartridge including a developing roller and a memory, the memory including a memory electrical contact; and a photosensitive drum,', 'a frame rotatably supporting the photosensitive drum and the cartridge is attachable to and detachable from the frame,', 'an intermediate electrical contact configured to be in electrical contact with the memory electrical contact of the cartridge,', 'a unit electrical contact configured to be in electrical contact with the main body electrical contact,', 'a line conductor configured to connect the intermediate electrical contact and the unit electrical contact, and', 'a portion-to-be-guided configured to be guided by the main body guide portion of the apparatus main body,, 'a moving unit configured to move into and out of the apparatus main body in a first direction, the moving unit including'}wherein the portion-to-be-guided is located on ...

PROCESS CARTRIDGE AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

A process cartridge removably installable in an image forming apparatus includes a cartridge body including an image bearer; a cleaning unit removably attached to the cartridge body and including a lubricant supply device to lubricate the image bearer; a first contact terminal disposed in one of the cleaning unit and the cartridge body; and a second contact terminal disposed in the other of the cleaning unit and the cartridge body. The second contact terminal is disposed to contact the first contact terminal to establish electrical continuity between the cartridge body and the cleaning unit, and an end of the first contact terminal includes a sliding contact portion to slidingly contact the second contact terminal in attachment and removal of the cleaning unit to and from the cartridge body. 1. A process cartridge removably installable in an image forming apparatus , the process cartridge comprising:a cartridge body including an image bearer;a cleaning unit removably attached to the cartridge body, the cleaning unit including a lubricant supply device to lubricate the image bearer;a first contact terminal disposed in one of the cleaning unit and the cartridge body; anda second contact terminal disposed in the other of the cleaning unit and the cartridge body, the second contact terminal disposed to contact the first contact terminal to establish electrical continuity between the cartridge body and the cleaning unit,wherein an end of the first contact terminal includes a sliding contact portion to slidingly contact the second contact terminal in attachment and removal of the cleaning unit to and from the cartridge body.2. The process cartridge according to claim 1 , wherein the cleaning unit comprises a lubricant detector to detect a lubricant disposed in the lubricant supply device claim 1 ,the cartridge body includes a detector to receive data from the lubricant detector, andthe first contact terminal establishes electrical continuity between the lubricant detector ...

Process cartridge and image forming apparatus including the same

A process cartridge includes a first cartridge and second cartridge. The first cartridge includes a first wall having a first opening, a first shutter configured to open and close the first opening, and a first operating portion configured to operate together with the first shutter. The second cartridge is mountable onto and demountable from the first cartridge and contains a developer. The second cartridge includes a second wall facing the first wall and having a second opening corresponding to the first opening, a second shutter configured to open and close the second opening, and a second operating position configured to operate together with the second shutter. The first cartridge further includes a third operating portion. When the second cartridge is mounted into the first cartridge, the first operating portion and the third operating portion operate together through the second operating portion.

Charging member, process cartridge, and image-forming apparatus

A charging member includes a support, a conductive elastic layer disposed on the support, and a surface layer disposed on the conductive elastic layer. Domains with current values of 2.5 pA or more have an average size of about 300 nm or less in a binary image created using a current value of 2.5 pA as a threshold from current measured by contacting a conical probe having a tip diameter of 20 nm with an outer surface of the surface layer and applying a voltage of 3 V between the conical probe and the support while moving the conical probe.

IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

An image forming apparatus includes a developer container, a development device, a developer replenishment device and a control part. The control part obtains a replenishment amount (X) of the developer replenished by the developer replenishment device from a last-time replenishment until a this-time replenishment and a predicted consumption (Y) of the developer, calculated based on the image data output from the last-time replenishment until the this-time replenishment, and informs abnormality when an absolute value of a difference of the replenishment amount (X) and the predicted consumption (Y) is larger than a threshold value. 1. An image forming apparatus comprising:a developer container configured to contain a developer;a development device configured to develop an electrostatic latent image into a toner image using the developer, the electrostatic latent image being formed on an image carrier based on image data;a developer replenishment device configured to replenish the developer from the developer container to the development device; anda control part configured to obtain a replenishment amount (X) of the developer replenished by the developer replenishment device from a last-time replenishment until a this-time replenishment and a predicted consumption (Y) calculated based on the image data output from the last-time replenishment until the this-time replenishment, and to inform abnormality when an absolute value (|X−Y|) of a difference (X−Y) of the replenishment amount (X) and the predicted consumption (Y) is larger than a threshold value.2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 ,wherein the control part controls the developer replenishment device so as to replenish the developer to the development device from the developer container when the absolute value (|X−Y|) of the difference (X−Y) of the replenishment amount (X) and the predicted consumption (Y) is equal to or smaller than the threshold value and the difference (X−Y) of the ...

Channel state information measurements for license assisted access

Systems and methods relating to accurate Channel State Information (CSI) measurements for a License Assisted Secondary Cell (LA SCell) are disclosed herein. A wireless device operates in a cellular communications network according to a carrier aggregation scheme using both a licensed frequency band and an unlicensed frequency band operates to determine whether a CSI Reference Symbol (CSI-RS) transmission from an LA SCell is present in a subframe, where the LA SCell is in an unlicensed frequency band. Upon determining that a CSI-RS transmission is present in the subframe, the wireless device performs a first type of interference measurement on configured CSI Interference Measurement (CSI-IM) resources in the subframe. Upon determining that a CSI-RS transmission is not present in the subframe, the wireless device performs a second type of interference measurement on the configured CSI-IM resources in the subframe. Related methods and storage media are also described.

Image Forming Apparatus and Drum Cartridge

There is provided an image forming apparatus including a casing and a drum cartridge. The drum cartridge includes: a photosensitive drum having a circumferential surface which includes a first area and a second area; a first cover which pivotally moves between a first closed position where the first cover covers the first area of the photosensitive drum and a first open position where the first area is exposed; and a second cover which pivotally moves between a second closed position where the second cover covers the second area of the photosensitive drum and a second open position where the second area is exposed. A direction in which the second cover pivotally moves from the second closed position to the second open position is opposite to a direction in which the first cover pivotally moves from the first closed position to the first open position. 1. An image forming apparatus comprising:a casing; and a photosensitive drum of which a circumferential surface includes a first area and a second area;', 'a first cover configured to pivotally move between a first closed position and a first open position, the first closed position being a position where the first cover covers the first area of the photosensitive drum, the first open position being a position where the first area is exposed; and', 'a second cover configured to pivotally move between a second closed position and a second open position, the second closed position being a position where the second cover covers the second area of the photosensitive drum, the second open position being a position where the second area is exposed,, 'a drum cartridge being installable in the casing and includingwherein a direction in which the second cover pivotally moves from the second closed position to the second open position is opposite to a direction in which the first cover pivotally moves from the first closed position to the first open position.2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , further ...

ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC PHOTORECEPTOR, PROCESS CARTRIDGE, AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

An electrophotographic photoreceptor includes a conductive substrate; an undercoat layer on the conductive substrate; a charge generating layer on the undercoat layer; a charge transporting layer on the charge generating layer; and an inorganic protective layer on the charge transporting layer. The undercoat layer, the charge transporting layer, and the inorganic protective layer each have a film elastic modulus of 5 GPa or more. 1. An electrophotographic photoreceptor comprising:a conductive substrate;an undercoat layer on the conductive substrate;a charge generating layer on the undercoat layer;a charge transporting layer on the charge generating layer; andan inorganic protective layer on the charge transporting layer,wherein the undercoat layer, the charge transporting layer, and the inorganic protective layer each have a film elastic modulus of 5 GPa or more.2. The electrophotographic photoreceptor according to claim 1 , wherein a difference in film elastic modulus between the undercoat layer and the inorganic protective layer is 60 GPa or less.3. The electrophotographic photoreceptor according to claim 1 , wherein a difference in film elastic modulus between the charge transporting layer and the inorganic protective layer is 90 GPa or less.4. The electrophotographic photoreceptor according to claim 1 , wherein the inorganic protective layer has a film elastic modulus of 40 GPa or more and 120 GPa or less.5. The electrophotographic photoreceptor according to claim 1 , wherein the charge transporting layer has a film elastic modulus of 6 GPa or more and 7 GPa or less.6. The electrophotographic photoreceptor according to claim 1 , wherein the undercoat layer has a film elastic modulus of 80 GPa or more and 120 GPa or less.7. An electrophotographic photoreceptor comprising:a conductive substrate;an undercoat layer on the conductive substrate, the undercoat layer being formed of a metal oxide layer;a charge generating layer on the undercoat layer;a charge ...

Image Forming Apparatus and Process Cartridge

The image forming apparatus includes a drum cartridge having a photosensitive drum and a drum drive input member; a developing cartridge configured to be movably mounted to the drum cartridge, the developing cartridge comprising a developing roller disposed so as to face the photosensitive drum and a developing drive input member; a drum drive transmission member configured to engage with the drum drive input member and configured to transmit drum driving force to the drum drive input member while permitting a positional gap of the drum drive input member within a predetermined range; and a developing drive transmission member configured to engage with the developing drive input member and configured to transmit developing driving force to the developing drive input member while permitting a positional gap of the developing drive input member within a predetermined range. 1. An image forming apparatus comprising: a photosensitive drum; and', 'a drum coupling configured to rotate the photosensitive drum; and, 'a drum cartridge including a developing roller; and', 'a developing coupling configured to rotate the developing roller,, 'a developing cartridge configured to accommodate toner therein, the developing cartridge includingwherein the developing cartridge is movable relative to the drum cartridge between a first position and a second position,wherein a surface of the developing roller is in contact with a surface of the photosensitive drum in a case where the developing cartridge is at the first position,wherein the surface of the developing roller is spaced apart from the surface of the photosensitive drum in a case where the developing cartridge is at the second position, and 'a coupling configured to couple to the drum coupling, the coupling being movable between a third position and a fourth position relative to the drum coupling.', 'wherein the image forming apparatus further comprises2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 ,wherein the third ...

Developer container, development device, process cartridge, and image forming apparatus

A developer container includes a conductive member containing a resin configured to detect a developer amount using capacitance, and a frame member having the conductive member configured to store the developer. The conductive member is provided on a first side of the frame member contacting the developer and on a second side of the frame member, the second side is the back of the first side, and the conductive member provided on the first side and the conductive member provided on the second side are connected with each other within the frame member.

DEVELOPING APPARATUS, PROCESS CARTRIDGE, AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING MOLDED ARTICLES

A process cartridge including a first frame member molded by pouring a resin from a gate; a conductive sheet adhered integrally to a sheet adhering portion of the first frame member by molding of the resin; and a second frame member configured to define a toner storage portion by being coupled with the first frame member, wherein, the first frame member includes a bent portion at the sheet adhering portion, and a portion of the first frame member different in thickness is provided at an adjacent position to the adhering portion. 1. A developing apparatus comprising:a first frame member molded by pouring a resin from a gate;a second frame member configured to define a toner storage portion by being coupled with the first frame member, whereinthe first frame member includes an upright wall, a curved surface shape, and a bent portion between the upright wall and the curved surface shape,a conductive sheet is adhered to the bent portion,the first frame member includes a portion different in thickness between the conductive sheet and the gate.2. The developing apparatus according to claim 1 , whereinthe portion of the first frame member different in thickness has a thickness smaller than a standard thickness of the first frame member.3. The developing apparatus according to whereinan amount of variation in thickness of the portion having the reduced thickness falls within a range from 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm with respect to the standard thickness.4. The developing apparatus according to claim 2 , whereinthe portion having the reduced thickness is on a line connecting the gate and the bent portion closest to the gate.5. The developing apparatus according to whereina width of the portion having the reduced thickness is at least 20 mm.6. The developing apparatus according to claim 2 , whereinthe portion of the first frame member different in thickness includes a portion having a thickness larger than the standard thickness adjacently to the portion having a thickness smaller than ...

REPLACEABLE UNITS OF AN ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGE FORMING DEVICE HAVING A SHIPPING OR STORAGE SEPARATOR

A toner cartridge according to one embodiment includes a body having a reservoir for storing toner and a rotatable developer roll mounted on the body and in fluid communication with the reservoir. A portion of an outer surface of the developer roll is exposed along a front of the body for supplying toner from the reservoir to a corresponding photoconductive drum on an imaging unit when the toner cartridge is installed on the imaging unit in an operative position of the toner cartridge relative to the imaging unit. A first engagement member positioned on a rear of the body is configured to engage a corresponding second engagement member on the imaging unit when the toner cartridge is installed on the imaging unit to retain the toner cartridge in a storage position of the toner cartridge relative to the imaging unit with the developer roll spaced away from the photoconductive drum. 1. A toner cartridge for use with an imaging unit in an image forming device , comprising:a body having a top, a bottom, a front and a rear positioned between a first side and a second side of the body, the body has a reservoir for holding toner;a rotatable developer roll mounted on the body and in fluid communication with the reservoir, a portion of an outer surface of the developer roll is exposed along the front of the body for supplying toner from the reservoir to a corresponding photoconductive drum on the imaging unit when the toner cartridge is installed on the imaging unit in an operative position of the toner cartridge relative to the imaging unit;a first alignment guide extending outward from the first side of the body and a second alignment guide extending outward from the second side of the body for positioning the toner cartridge on the imaging unit, the first and second alignment guides define a pivot axis about which the toner cartridge is pivotable relative to the imaging unit when the toner cartridge is installed on the imaging unit;an angled contact surface on the rear of ...

PROCESS CARTRIDGE AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

A process cartridge detachably mountable to a main assembly of an image forming apparatus, the process cartridge includes a photosensitive drum unit including a photosensitive drum, and a first and second positioning portions Configured to position the photosensitive drum unit relative to the main assembly; and a developing unit connected with the photosensitive drum unit, the developing unit including a developing roller, a storing means having a contact surface electrically connectable with a main assembly contact of the main assembly to communicate with the main assembly. As seen in an axial direction of the photosensitive drum, a first line segment connecting the first positioning portion and the second positioning portion with each other and a first linear line passing through the contact surface and perpendicular to the contact surface crosses with each other. 1. A process cartridge detachably mountable to a main assembly of an image forming apparatus , the process cartridge comprising:a photosensitive drum unit including a photosensitive drum and a first and second positioning portions configured to position the photosensitive drum unit relative to the main assembly; anda developing unit connected to the photosensitive drum unit, the developing unit including a developing roller and a storing means having a contact surface electrically connectable with a main assembly contact of the main assembly to communicate with the main assembly,wherein, as seen in an axial direction of the photosensitive drum, a line segment connecting the first positioning portion and the second positioning portion with each other and a linear line passing through the contact surface and perpendicular to the contact surface cross each other.2. A process cartridge according to claim 1 , wherein the line segment is a first line segment claim 1 , andwherein, as seen in the axial direction of the photosensitive drum, a second line segment connecting the storing means and a connecting ...

PROCESS CARTRIDGE AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

A process cartridge is detachably mountable to a main assembly of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus. The cartridge includes an electrophotographic photosensitive drum, a developing roller, a drum unit containing the drum, a developing unit containing the roller and being movable so the roller contacts and is spaced from the drum, and a first force receiver receiving a force from a main-assembly first force applier by movement of a door from open to closed positions when mounting the cartridge and a second force receiver movable from a stand-by position by movement of the first force receiver by a force received from the first force applier. The second force receiver takes a projected position receiving a force from the second force applier to move the developing unit so the roller moves out of contact with the drum, the projected position being higher than the stand-by position. 1. A process cartridge detachably mountable to a main assembly of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus , the main assembly including an opening , a door movable between a close position for closing the opening and an open position for opening the opening , a first force application member movable with movement of the door from the open position to the closing position and a second force application member movable by a driving force from a driving source , said process cartridge comprising:an electrophotographic photosensitive drum;a developing roller for developing an electrostatic latent image formed on said electrophotographic photosensitive drum;a drum unit containing said electrophotographic photosensitive drum;a developing unit which contains said developing roller and which is movable relative to said drum unit such that developing roller is movable between a contact position in which said developing roller is contacted to said electrophotographic photosensitive drum and a spaced position in which said developing roller is spaced from said electrophotographic ...

Process Cartridge and Image Forming Apparatus Including the Same

A process cartridge includes a first cartridge and a second cartridge. The first cartridge includes a first wall having a first opening, a first shutter configured to open and close the first opening, and a first operating portion configured to operate together with the first shutter. The second cartridge is mountable onto and demountable from the first cartridge and contains a developer. The second cartridge includes a second wall facing the first wall and having a second opening corresponding to the first opening, a second shutter configured to open and close the second opening, and a second operating portion configured to operate together with the second shutter. The first cartridge further includes a third operating portion. When the second cartridge is mounted onto the first cartridge, the first operating portion and the third operating portion operate together through the second operating portion. 1. An image forming apparatus comprising:a photosensitive drum;a developing roller configured to develop a developer image on the photosensitive drum and including a first shaft, the developing roller extending in a first direction in which the first shaft extends;a supply roller configured to contact the developer roller to supply developer to the developer roller and extending in the first direction;a case in which the supply roller is located and having an input port; anda developer container configured to contain developer and extending in the first direction, a distance between one end of the developer container and the other end of the developer container being larger than a distance between one end of the supply roller and the other end of the supply roller, the developer being conveyed between the one end of the developer container and the other end of the developer container in the first direction, the developer container having an output port positioned between the other end of the developer container and the other end of the supply roller in the first ...

ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC MEMBER, PROCESS CARTRIDGE, AND ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

Provided is an electrophotographic member which can suppress adhesion of the toner component and fogging even in the case of printing a large number of sheets. The electrophotographic member includes an electroconductive support and an elastic layer and has convex portions composed of the elastic layer on a surface of the electrophotographic member and a filled portion containing a resin at a valley portion between the convex portions, the filled portion has a height lower than heights of the convex portions, and the surface of the electrophotographic member has a specific Martens hardness. 1. An electrophotographic member comprising an electroconductive support and an elastic layer on the support , whereinthe electrophotographic member has convex portions composed of the elastic layer on a surface of the electrophotographic member,the electrophotographic member has a filled portion containing a resin at a valley portion between the convex portions,the filled portion has a height lower than heights of the convex portions, a first region which is a surface of the elastic layer uncovered with the filled portion and', 'a second region which is a surface of the filled portion, and wherein when', 'a Martens hardness measured at a surface of the first region is defined as H1, and a Martens hardness measured at a surface of the second region is defined as H2, H1 and H2 satisfy a following relationship: H2>H1., 'the surface of the electrophotographic member includes'}2. The electrophotographic member according to claim 1 , wherein the electrophotographic member has a roller shape.3. The electrophotographic member according to claim 1 , wherein a difference between H1 and H2 is 0.5 N/mmor more and 35.0 N/mmor less.4. The electrophotographic member according to claim 1 , wherein a coverage factor of a part covered with the second region on the surface of the electrophotographic member is 20% or more and 80% or less.5. The electrophotographic member according to claim 1 , ...

Process cartridge and image forming apparatus

A process cartridge is detachably mountable to a main assembly of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus. The cartridge includes an electrophotographic photosensitive drum, a developing roller, a drum unit containing the drum, a developing unit containing the roller and being movable so the roller contacts and is spaced from the drum, and a first force receiver receiving a force from a main-assembly first force applier by movement of a door from open to closed positions when mounting the cartridge and a second force receiver movable from a stand-by position by movement of the first force receiver by a force received from the first force applier. The second force receiver takes a projected position receiving a force from the second force applier to move the developing unit so the roller moves out of contact with the drum, the projected position being higher than the stand-by position.

Process Cartridge

A process cartridge, comprising: a drum cartridge; and a waste toner case, the drum cartridge comprising: a development roller; a first side wall to support one end of a shaft of the development roller; a second wall to support the other end of the shaft; a photosensitive drum; a cleaner; and a conveying tube, the conveying tube comprising: a first part disposed on an opposite side of the second side wall with respect to the first side wall in an axis direction, the first part being connected to the cleaner; a second part disposed closer to the second side wall relative to the first part and connected to the waste toner case; and a third part connecting the first part with the second part, wherein a direction in which the waste toner case is attached is equal to a direction in which the second part extends. 1. A process cartridge , comprising a drum cartridge and a development cartridge attachable to and detachable from the drum cartridge , a photosensitive drum having a circumferential surface;', 'a cleaner configured to remove toner from the circumferential surface of the photosensitive drum; and', 'a conveying tube configured to convey toner removed by the cleaner, and, 'the drum cartridge comprising a waste toner case configured to store toner conveyed by the conveying tube;', 'a development roller having a shaft extending in an axis direction;', 'a first side wall supporting one end of the shaft of the development roller; and', 'a second side wall supporting the other end of the shaft of the development roller,, 'the development cartridge comprisingwherein the waste toner case is disposed on an opposite side of the photosensitive drum with respect to the development roller,wherein a direction in which the development cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge is parallel to an extending direction in which a part of the conveying tube extends,wherein the waste toner case has a receiving part into which the part of the conveying tube is insertable into the ...

IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS INCLUDING DRUM CARTRIDGE INCLUDING SWING PLATE CONFIGURED TO SUPPORT DEVELOPING CARTRIDGE

An image forming apparatus includes an apparatus main body, a drum cartridge, and a developing cartridge. The apparatus main body is formed with an opening. The drum cartridge includes a photosensitive drum and is configured to be installed into the apparatus main body through the opening. The developing cartridge includes a developing roller and is configured to be installed into the drum cartridge. The drum cartridge includes a swing plate configured to support the developing cartridge installed in the drum cartridge. The swing plate is configured to swingably move such that the developing roller moves relative to the photosensitive drum. The swing plate includes a first guide configured to guide installation of the developing cartridge into the drum cartridge. 1. An image forming apparatus comprising:an apparatus main body formed with an opening;a drum cartridge including a photosensitive drum and configured to be installed into the apparatus main body through the opening; anda developing cartridge including a developing roller and configured to be installed into the drum cartridge,the drum cartridge including a side frame configured to rotatably support the photosensitive drum,the drum cartridge including a swing plate configured to support the developing cartridge installed in the drum cartridge, the swing plate being provided at the side frame, the swing plate being configured to swingably move such that the developing roller moves relative to the photosensitive drum,the swing plate including a first guide configured to guide installation of the developing cartridge into the drum cartridge.2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the swing plate includes a swing shaft extending along a swing center of the swing plate; andwherein the swing shaft is rotatably supported by the side frame.3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the swing plate is configured to claim 1 , in a state where the developing cartridge is ...

PROCESS CARTRIDGE CAPABLE OF RECOVERING WASTE TONER

The present invention provides a process cartridge capable of recovering waste toner. The process cartridge comprises a toner hopper unit and a waste bin unit. The toner hopper unit comprises a waste toner recovering port and the waste bin unit comprises a waste toner discharging port. The waste toner discharging port and the waste toner recovering port are butted with each other hermetically. The waste bin unit is provided with a waste toner conveying component for conveying the waste toner within the waste bin unit to the waste toner discharging port. The entire process of recovering and reusing the waste toner is automatically carried out during normal operation of the process cartridge and thus manual operation is not needed. 1. A process cartridge capable of recovering waste toner , comprising a toner hopper unit and a waste bin unit , wherein the toner hopper unit comprises a waste toner recovering port; the waste bin unit comprises a waste toner discharging port; the waste toner recovering port and the waste toner discharging port are butted with each other hermetically; and wherein the waste bin unit is provided with a waste toner conveying component for conveying the waste toner within the waste bin unit to the waste toner discharging port.2. The process cartridge according to claim 1 , wherein a gear for receiving driving force is fixed at one end of the waste toner conveying component.3. The process cartridge according to claim 1 , wherein a sealing member is provided between the waste toner discharging port and the waste toner recovering port.4. The process cartridge according to claim 3 , wherein the sealing member is attached to the periphery of the waste toner discharging port and/or the waste toner recovering port.5. The process cartridge according to claim 3 , wherein the sealing member is a sponge claim 3 , a felt claim 3 , or a foam rubber.6. The process cartridge according to claim 1 , wherein the waste toner conveying component is a screw.7. The ...

Process Cartridge

A process cartridge includes an image carrying member cartridge and a developing cartridge. The image carrying member cartridge includes a first handle. The developing cartridge includes a second handle. In a state where the developing cartridge is attached to the image carrying member cartridge, a one edge of the first handle is located at substantially the same position as a one edge of the second handle in a direction, and the second handle is spaced apart from the first handle.

IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

An image forming apparatus includes a supporting member configured to support a developing unit and be movable between a first position and a second position, an opening/closing member configured to open and close an opening through which the developing unit passes when the developing unit is attached to or detached from the supporting member, and a restriction member configured to restrict a movement of the supporting member from a third position different from the first and second positions, wherein in case where the opening/closing member is opened when the supporting member is at the first position, the restriction member presses the supporting member to move to the third position, and in case where the opening/closing member is opened when the supporting member is at the second position, the restriction member presses the supporting member to move to the third position. 1. An image forming apparatus comprising:a supporting member configured to support a developing unit including a developing roller and be movable between a first position where the developing roller can attach toner to a photosensitive member, and a second position where the developing roller is separate from the photosensitive member so that the developing roller does not attach toner to the photosensitive member;an opening/closing member configured to open and close an opening through which the developing unit passes when the developing unit is attached to or detached from the supporting member; anda restriction member configured to restrict a movement of the supporting member from a third position different from the first and second positions,wherein in case where the opening/closing member is opened when the supporting member is at the first position, the restriction member presses the supporting member to move to the third position, and in case where the opening/closing member is opened when the supporting member is at the second position, the restriction member presses the supporting ...

IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS, PROCESS CARTRIDGE, DEVELOPING CARTRIDGE, AND DRUM CARTRIDGE

An image forming apparatus in which a developer bearing member is disposed below a cleaning member, which cleans a charging member, so as to overlap with the cleaning member when viewed in a vertical direction and includes a base body and an elastic layer covering the base body and having a width in a longitudinal direction of the developer bearing member that accommodates the entire region of the cleaning member in the longitudinal direction. In the longitudinal direction, the cleaning member is disposed at a position where the entire region thereof in the longitudinal direction is accommodated in the width of the elastic layer. 1. An image forming apparatus comprising:an image bearing member;a charging member that charges the image bearing member;a cleaning member that contacts the charging member and cleans the charging member;a developer bearing member that bears a developer for developing a latent image formed on the image bearing member; anda frame that accommodates the developer, whereinthe developer bearing member is disposed below the cleaning member so as to overlap with the cleaning member when viewed in a vertical direction and includes a base body and an elastic layer that covers the base body and has a width that accommodates, in a longitudinal direction of the developer bearing member, the entire region of the cleaning member in the longitudinal direction; andin the longitudinal direction, the cleaning member is disposed at a position where the entire region thereof in the longitudinal direction is accommodated in the width of the elastic layer.2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the cleaning member has a width in the longitudinal direction that accommodates the entire region claim 1 , in the longitudinal direction claim 1 , of the developer bearing member where the developer is carried.3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the cleaning member is a brush member.4. The image forming apparatus according ...

IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS INCLUDING PROCESS CARTRIDGE HAVING A TONER CARTRIDGE DETACHABLY ATTACHED TO A DRUM CARTRIDGE

An image forming apparatus, including a process cartridge and a main body with an opening and a cover, is provided. The process cartridge includes a drum cartridge, a toner cartridge, and a switching member. The switching member switches states in the process cartridge between a first state, wherein the toner cartridge is restricted from being detached, and a second state, wherein the toner cartridge is released from the restriction. The process cartridge is movable between an attached position to be placed entirely inside the main body and a detached position to be entirely outside the main body. The main body includes a restrictor to restrict the process cartridge from moving from an intermediate position toward the detached position. While the process cartridge is restricted by the restrictor, a supportive part in the cover supports the process cartridge with the switching member being at least partly placed outside the main body. 1. An image forming apparatus , comprising:a process cartridge; anda main body having an opening, the main body comprising a cover movable between a closing position, in which the cover closes the opening, and an open position, in which the opening is exposed; a drum cartridge comprising a photosensitive drum; and', 'a toner cartridge configured to be detachably attached to the drum cartridge,, 'wherein the process cartridge compriseswherein the process cartridge is movable between an attached position, in which the process cartridge is entirely placed in an inner space formed inside the main body on an inner side with respect to the opening, and a detached position, in which the process cartridge is entirely placed outside the inner space on an outer side with respect to the opening;wherein the main body comprises a restrictor configured to restrict the process cartridge from moving from an intermediate position between the attached position and the detached position toward the detached position with at least a part of the process ...

System and method for refurbishing print cartridges and print cartridge toner blades

A refurbished toner blade for a toner cartridge and a method for refurbishing a toner blade for a toner cartridge are provided. The refurbished toner blade includes a fixed portion configured for attachment to a portion of a toner cartridge, a depending portion extending away from the fixed portion, and a permanent deflection that is formed during refurbishment of the toner blade and that extends between the fixed portion and the depending portion. The refurbished toner blade is formed from a used toner blade in which the depending portion has obtained a permanent deformation in a first direction after an initial period of use. The permanent deflection deflects the depending portion in a second direction opposite the first direction.

Process cartridge and electrophotographic apparatus

The present disclosure provides a process cartridge and an electrophotographic apparatus in which fogging is reduced so as to reduce an amount of toner consumed. A process cartridge configured to be detachably attachable to a main body of an electrophotographic apparatus includes a developing unit containing a toner, and an electrophotographic photosensitive member, wherein the toner is a toner that has a toner particle, and has a metal salt of a polyvalent acid at least on a part of a surface of the toner particle; wherein the metal salt of the polyvalent acid includes at least one kind of metal element selected from metal elements belonging to from Group 3 to Group 13, and a surface layer of the electrophotographic photosensitive member contains an acrylic resin or a methacrylic resin.

TONER

A toner containing a toner particle, wherein, when a dielectric loss tangent measured at a frequency of 10 kHz in an impedance measurement on the toner in an environment having a temperature of 50° C. and a relative humidity of 50% RH is designated by tan δ50° C.(1), and a dielectric loss tangent measured at a frequency of 10 kHz in an impedance measurement on the toner in an environment having a temperature of 30° C. and a relative humidity of 50% RH after the impedance measurement on the toner in an environment having a temperature of 50° C. and a relative humidity of 50% RH is designated by tan δ30° C.(2), tan δ50° C.(1) is from 0.015 to 0.050, the relationship tan δ50° C.(1)>tan δ30° C.(2) is satisfied, and tan δ30° C.(2)/tan δ50° C.(1) is from 0.25 to 0.66. 1. A toner containing a toner particle , wherein ,when a dielectric loss tangent measured at a frequency of 10 kHz in an impedance measurement on the toner in an environment having a temperature of 50° C. and a relative humidity of 50% RH is designated by tan δ50° C.(1), anda dielectric loss tangent measured at a frequency of 10 kHz in an impedance measurement on the toner in an environment having a temperature of 30° C. and a relative humidity of 50% RH after the impedance measurement on the toner in an environment having a temperature of 50° C. and a relative humidity of 50% RH is designated by tan δ30° C.(2),tan δ50° C.(1) is from 0.015 to 0.050,tan δ50° C.(1) and tan δ30° C.(2) satisfy the relationship tan δ50° C.(1)>tan δ30° C.(2), anda ratio of tan δ30° C.(2) to tan δ50° C.(1) is from 0.25 to 0.66.2. The toner according to claim 1 , wherein the toner includes claim 1 , on a surface of the toner particle claim 1 ,fine particles B1 and fine particles A that contain a metal element-containing compound,the fine particles B1 have a number-average particle diameter DB of from 50 nm to 500 nm,a percentage occurrence of the metal element in measurement of a surface of the toner using X-ray photoelectron ...

Process Cartridge and Image Forming Apparatus

A process cartridge including a drum cartridge, a developing cartridge, and a waste toner container, is provided. The drum cartridge includes a photosensitive drum including a photosensitive layer and a rotation axis extending in an axial direction, a drum cleaner arranged to contact the photosensitive drum, a cleaner frame configured to accommodate the drum cleaner therein, and a waste toner conveyer tube connected with the cleaner frame. The developing cartridge is movable to be attached to and detached from the drum cartridge and includes a developer roller. The waste toner container is movable to be attached to and detached from the drum cartridge. When the developing cartridge and the waste toner container are attached to the drum cartridge, the waste toner container is connected with the waste toner conveyer tube and is located on an opposite side of the developing cartridge to the photosensitive drum. 1. A process cartridge detachably attachable to an image forming apparatus , comprising a drum cartridge and a developing cartridge , a photosensitive drum rotatable about a drum axis extending in a first direction;', 'a cleaner configured to remove waste toner from the photosensitive drum; and', 'a waste toner conveyer tube for conveying the waste toner removed by the cleaner, and, 'the drum cartridge comprisingthe developing cartridge comprising a waste toner container configured to accommodate the waste toner removed by the cleaner, the developing cartridge being detachably attachable to the drum cartridge in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.2. A process cartridge detachably attachable to an image forming apparatus , comprising a drum cartridge and a developing cartridge , a photosensitive drum;', 'a cleaner configured to remove toner from the photosensitive drum; and', 'a waste toner conveyer tube for conveying waste toner removed by the cleaner, and, 'the drum cartridge comprising a developing roller rotatable about a shaft;', 'a ...

DEVELOPING MEMBER, PROCESS CARTRIDGE AND ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS

An electrophotographic developing member includes an electro-conductive support and an electro-conductive layer provided on the support, wherein the electro-conductive layer has a matrix containing a first rubber and a plurality of domains dispersed in the matrix, and the domain contains a second rubber and an electronic conductive agent and when a frequency is log-log-plotted on a horizontal axis and an impedance is log-log-plotted on a vertical axis with respect to an impedance measured by applying an alternating current voltage having an amplitude of 1 V on the electro-conductive layer while changing a frequency between 1.0×10Hz to 1.0×10Hz under a specific environment, an inclination of an impedance on a high frequency side is −0.8 or more and −0.3 or less and an impedance on a low frequency side is 1.0×10Ω to 1.0×10Ω. 1. An electrophotographic developing member comprising:a support having an electro-conductive outer surface; andan electro-conductive layer on the electro-conductive outer surface of the support, the electro-conductive layer having a matrix comprising a first rubber and domains dispersed in the matrix,the domain each comprising a second rubber and an electronic conductive agent, wherein{'sup': −2', '−7', '6', '7', '−2', '0', '4', '11, 'assuming that a metal film is provided on an outer surface of the developing member, and an impedance is measured by applying an alternating current voltage having an amplitude of 1 V between the electro-conductive outer surface of the support and the metal film while varying a frequency between 1.0×10Hz to 1.0×10Hz under an environment of a temperature of 23° C. and a relative humidity of 50%, in a double logarithmic plot with a frequency on an abscissa and an impedance on an ordinate, a slope at a frequency of 1.0×10Hz to 1.0×10Hz is −0.8 or more and −0.3 or less, and an impedance at a frequency of 1.0×10Hz to 1.0×10Hz is 1.0×10Ω to 1.0×10Ω.'}2. The electrophotographic developing member according to claim 1 , ...

PROCESS CARTRIDGE AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS INCLUDING THE SAME

A process cartridge includes a first cartridge and a second cartridge. The first cartridge includes a first wall having a first opening, a first shutter configured to open and close the first opening, and a first operating portion configured to operate together with the first shutter. The second cartridge is mountable onto and demountable from the first cartridge and contains a developer. The second cartridge includes a second wall facing the first wall and having a second opening corresponding to the first opening, a second shutter configured top open and close the second opening, and a second operating portion configured to operate together with the second shutter. The first cartridge further includes a third operating portion. When the second cartridge is mounted onto the first cartridge, the first operating portion and the third operating portion operate together through the second operating portion. 1. A process cartridge comprising: 'a developer container configured to contain developer and including an output port wall where an opening is open, the developer being to be conveyed from the developer container through the opening; and', 'a first cartridge comprisinga second cartridge comprising:a developing roller configured to develop a developer image on a photosensitive drum and including a first shaft;a supply roller configured to supply the developer to the developer roller and including a second shaft;a case having an input port through which the developer is to be supplied from the opening of the first cartridge, the case being configured to rotatably support the first shaft of the developing roller and the second shaft of the supply roller;a protrusion protruding from the case; a side frame configured to rotatably support the photosensitive drum and having a first hole in which the protrusion is slidably inserted; and', 'a bottom frame configured to support the first cartridge; and, 'a frame on which the first cartridge is configured to be mounted, the ...

UNIT FOR IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS, PROCESS CARTRIDGE, AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

A unit for an image forming apparatus includes a developing unit that includes a developing roll and a voltage applying section, and a cleaning unit that includes a cleaning blade which contacts with the image holding member and cleans a surface of the image holding member, wherein the developing roll is provided with an interval of 100 μm to 300 μm with respect to the image holding member, and holds an electrostatic charge image developer including a carrier and a toner whose a volume average particle diameter is 2 μm to 5 μm on a surface of the developing roll, and the voltage applying section applies an alternating voltage in which an alternating-current component is applied on a direct current component to the developing roll, the following expression being satisfied: 34≦Toner Volume Average Particle Diameter [μm]×Alternating-Current Component Frequency [kHz]≦60. 1. A unit for an image forming apparatus , comprising:an image holding member;a developing unit that includes a developing roll and a voltage applying section; anda cleaning unit that includes a cleaning blade which contacts with the image holding member and cleans a surface of the image holding member,wherein the developing roll is provided with an interval of from 220 μm to 260 μm with respect to the image holding member and holds an electrostatic charge image developer including a carrier and a toner whose volume average particle diameter is from 2 μm to 5 μm on a surface of the developing roll,the voltage applying section applies an alternating voltage in which an alternating-current component (AC) is superimposed on a direct current component (DC) to the developing roll, and {'br': None, '34≦Toner Volume Average Particle Diameter [μm]×Alternating-Current Component Frequency [kHz]≦60.\u2003\u2003(Expression 1)'}, 'a product of a volume average particle diameter [μm] of the toner and a frequency [kHz] of the alternating-current component (AC) satisfies a relationship of Expression 12. The unit for an ...

UNIT FOR IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS, PROCESS CARTRIDGE, AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

A unit for an image forming apparatus includes an image holding member; a developing unit that includes a developing roll, a voltage applying section, and a regulating member for regulating a thickness of an electrostatic charge image developer held on the developing roll; and a cleaning unit that includes a cleaning blade which contacts with the image holding member, wherein the developing roll is provided with an interval of 100 μm to 300 μm with respect to the image holding member, the regulating member is provided with an interval of 0.1 mm to 0.6 mm with respect to the developing roll, the voltage applying section applies a specific alternating voltage to the developing roll, and a product of the number average particle diameter [nm] of the inorganic particles and the interval [mm] of the regulating member falls within the range of from 26 to 81. 1. A unit for an image forming apparatus , comprising:an image holding member;a developing unit that includes a developing roll, a voltage applying section, and a regulating member for regulating a thickness of an electrostatic charge image developer which is held on the developing roll; anda cleaning unit that includes a cleaning blade which contacts with the image holding member and cleans a surface of the image holding member,wherein the developing roll is provided with an interval of 100 μm to 300 μm with respect to the image holding member, holds the electrostatic charge image developer including a carrier and a toner having a volume average particle diameter of 2 μm to 5 μm to which inorganic particles having a number average particle diameter of 70 nm to 135 nm are externally added on a surface of the developing roll,the regulating member for regulating the thickness of the electrostatic charge image developer is provided with an interval of 0.15 mm to 0.6 mm with respect to the developing roll,the voltage applying section applies an alternating voltage in which an alternating-current component (AC) is ...

IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS AND PROCESS UNIT

A process unit includes a rotatable image bearer, an optical writing head to expose the image bearer within an maximum exposure range in an axial direction of the image bearer, a developer bearer, spacers disposed in axial end portions of the image bearer to determine a position of the optical writing head relative to the image bearer and slidingly contact the image bearer, a cleaner disposed downstream from the developer bearer in an image bearer rotation direction, and a remover to slidingly contact the axial end portion of the image bearer to remove a substance adhering thereto. In the axial direction, inner ends of the spacers are positioned inside a toner layer range of the developer bearer extending beyond a largest sheet width. The remover is disposed downstream from the cleaner and crossing a line extending from the inner end of the spacer perpendicularly to the axial direction. 1. A process unit comprising:an image bearer to rotate and bear an electrostatic latent image and a toner image;an optical writing head to expose a surface of the image bearer inside a maximum exposure range in an axial direction of the image bearer to form the electrostatic latent image, the maximum exposure range within a largest sheet width, within which a sheet is fed in the process unit;a developer bearer disposed opposite the image bearer to supply toner to the image bearer, the developer bearer having a toner layer range extending beyond the largest sheet width in the axial direction;a pair of spacers disposed in axial end portions of the image bearer and interposed between the optical writing head and the image bearer to determine a position of the optical writing head relative to the image bearer, the spacers having inner ends facing each other and positioned inside the toner layer range in the axial direction, the spacers to slidingly contact the surface of the image bearer;a cleaner disposed downstream from the developer bearer in a rotation direction of the image bearer ...

Developing apparatus, process cartridge and electrophotographic image forming apparatus

The developing apparatus includes a developer carrying roller rotatable in a first rotating direction, and a developer regulating member which regulates a thickness of a developer layer carried on the developer carrying roller, wherein at least a part of the developer regulating member is in pressure contact with a surface of the developer carrying roller to form an abutting portion between the developer carrying roller and the developer regulating member, the abutting portion having an abutting width W in a circumferential direction of the developer carrying member of 1.0 to 5.0 mm, wherein in the abutting portion, an abutting pressure has a maximum value in a first area, the first area having a width of 20% or less of the abutting width W from an upstream edge of the abutting portion in the rotating direction, and wherein an abutting pressure in a second area is 0.08 to 0.18 MPa.

Developing apparatus, process cartridge and electrophotographic image forming apparatus

The developing apparatus includes a developer carrying roller rotatable in a first rotating direction, and a developer regulating member which controls the thickness of a developer layer, the developer regulating member having a developer layer thickness regulating part and a projecting part, and having an abutting part with the surface of the developer carrying roller at the developer layer thickness regulating part, and the projecting part having a concave shape at a side facing the developer carrying roller, the projecting part and the surface of the developer carrying roller forming a gap therebetween at an upstream side in the rotating direction from the abutting part, the gap having a portion where a gap width of 0.05-0.5 mm; a maximum value Hmax and a minimum value Hmin of the gap width satisfy the expression Hmax/Hmin≦3.0; and the portion having a continuous length of 0.8 mm or more.

SUPPORT ASSEMBLY FOR SUPPORTING TONER CARTRIDGE TO BE MOUNTED OR DETACHED

An example image forming apparatus includes a main body, a driving motor rotatable in a first direction to provide a driving force to a developing cartridge and rotatable in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and a support assembly to, based on the developing cartridge being mounted to the main body, provide the driving force of the driving motor in the first direction to the mounted developing cartridge, and detach the mounted developing cartridge from the main body using the driving force of the driving motor in the second direction. 1. An image forming apparatus comprising:a main body;a driving motor rotatable in a first direction to provide a driving force to a toner cartridge and rotatable in a second direction opposite to the first direction; and based on the toner cartridge being mounted to the main body, provide the driving force of the driving motor in the first direction to the mounted toner cartridge, and', 'detach the mounted toner cartridge from the main body using the driving force of the driving motor in the second direction., 'a support assembly to2. The image forming apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the support assembly comprises:a support housing;a pressing member to linearly move between a first position in which the pressing member is disposed inside the support housing and a second position in which the pressing member projects from the support housing, the pressing member being disposed outside the support housing; anda driving force transfer member to rotate by receiving driving force from the driving motor and to transfer the driving force to the pressing member when the driving motor rotates in the second direction.3. The image forming apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the pressing member is to linearly move to the first position by mounting of the toner cartridge and to linearly move to the second position by rotation of the driving motor in the second direction.4. The image forming apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the pressing ...

IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

In an image forming apparatus, a tray unit to which a cartridge is detachably mounted, and that is configured to be capable of moving between an internal position situated within the apparatus main body and an external position situated outside, includes first and second side plates configured to support the cartridge, and they are each made of metal, and include a supporting portion and an outer side portion, the supporting portions includes positioning portions configured to come into contact with the cartridge to position the cartridge as to an image forming position. The apparatus main body includes first and second pressing members each capable of moving between pressing positions at which the cartridge is pressed, and separated positions separated from the cartridge. The first and second pressing members are disposed each intersecting with imaginary planes that is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction and intersect the positioning portions. 1. An image forming apparatus configured to perform an image forming operation using a cartridge , the image forming apparatus comprising:an apparatus main body; and{'claim-text': ['a first side plate configured to support the cartridge, wherein the first side plate is made of metal, and includes a first supporting portion and a first outer side portion, the first supporting portion includes a first positioning portion, and the first positioning portion is configured to come into contact with the cartridge to position the cartridge as to an image forming position at which the image forming operation is performed,', 'a second side plate configured to support the cartridge, wherein the second side plate is made of metal, and includes a second supporting portion and a second outer side portion, the second supporting portion includes a second positioning portion, and the second positioning portion is configured to come into contact with the cartridge to position the cartridge as to the image forming position, and', 'a ...

PROCESS UNIT AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS PROVIDED WITH THE SAME

A process unit includes a first shaft portion at a first end of a photoreceptor drum that is fitted into a hole of a first receiving portion so as to move the photoreceptor drum from a front side of a mounting space to the inside of the mounting space. The photoreceptor drum is temporarily supported by a repulsive force of a cleaning blade and positioned in a predetermined position in the mounting space Then, in order to cause a lock member to support a second shaft portion at a second end of the photoreceptor drum, the lock member is retracted against a biasing force of a biasing member. The second shaft portion at the second end of the photoreceptor drum is supported by the lock member by a restoring force of the biasing member, so that the photoreceptor drum is locked in a mounted state. 1. A process unit being of a cartridge type and being configured integrally with a plurality of maintenance components that have a different life span , the process unit comprising:a photoreceptor drum that is one of the plurality of maintenance components and has a first shaft portion projecting from a first end of the photoreceptor drum and a second shaft portion projecting from a second end of the photoreceptor drum; a mounting space in which the photoreceptor drum is mounted, the mounting space opening forward;', 'a pair of first and second receiving portions opposed to each other in a longitudinal direction of the mounting space; and', 'a hole that is provided in the first receiving portion and fitted over the first shaft portion of the first end of the photoreceptor drum so as to support the first shaft portion; and, 'a frame body including;'}a cleaning blade that is arranged in the frame body and has a front end portion projecting from a back side of the mounting space to an inside of the mounting space and contacting a surface of the photoreceptor drum with a pressing force;a lock member that is provided movably in the second receiving portion in an axial direction of the ...