Patent ID: 6567635
Filing Date: 2003-05-20
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
Apparatus for dispensing toner in an electrostatographic printer, said apparatus comprising:(a) a substantially vertically oriented container for containing a fresh supply of toner, said container being adapted to be permanently mounted within a housing of said electrostatographic printer and having a lower portion defined by walls that converge towards a toner-outlet port; (b) a toner agitator for breaking-up any agglomerations or compactions of toner particles in the container and for lifting the toner upwards, allowing such particles to settle in the container under the force of gravity, said agitator comprising a substantially vertically oriented, rotatably mounted elongated shaft positioned within said container, said shaft supporting at least one blade member adapted to advance toner upwardly in said container as said shaft rotates; and (c) a motor for selectively rotating said shaft.