Patent ID: 6178305
Filing Date: 2001-01-23
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
A toner cartridge installation structure for an electrophotographic machine having a machine frame and a body housing enclosing said machine frame, wherein said electrophotographic machine uses an elongated toner cartridge for toner replenishment, comprising:a toner cartridge slot defined within said body housing for receiving therein said toner cartridge for installation of said toner cartridge in said electrophotographic machine, said slot (i) being elongated in shape, (ii) having a longitudinal axis extending in a first horizontal direction, (iii) being arranged such that said toner cartridge extends along said longitudinal axis of said slot when received in said slot and (iv) having a mouth at one longitudinal end thereof, through which said toner cartridge is inserted in and removed from said slot;a slot door provided for said mouth of said slot, said slot door being supported by said machine frame so as to be movable between a first position for substantially closing said mouth and a second position for leaving said mouth open;said slot door having inner and outer sides, said inner side facing toward inside of said slot when said slot door is located at said first position while facing upward when said slot door is located at said second position; andsaid slot door having guide surfaces formed on said inner side thereof for guiding said toner cartridge to establish alignment of said toner cartridge relative to said slot preparatory to inserting the former into the latter.