Patent ID: 6615014
Filing Date: 2003-09-02
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
An image forming apparatus, comprising:a development mechanism adapted to perform development of an image using a two component development agent, said development mechanism comprising: a development roller; a first transfer screw comprising a first pitch of screw spirals adapted to transfer said development agent from a first end of said first transfer screw to a second end of said first transfer screw and to convey said development agent to said development roller, said first transfer screw being arranged at a position approximately horizontal and in parallel to said development roller; and a second transfer screw comprising a second pitch of screw spirals adapted to transfer said development agent from a first end of said second transfer screw to a second end of said second transfer screw and to convey said development agent from said second end of said second transfer screw to said first end of said first transfer screw, said second transfer screw being arranged at a position approximately horizontal and in parallel to said first transfer screw, wherein said first and second transfer screws are at substantially the same horizontal level, wherein said first and second pitches of said screw spirals are different from each other, and wherein said first and second transfer screws are separated by individual chambers with a wall therebetween, and said development agent is transferred from said second transfer screw to said first transfer screw at edge portions of said first and second transfer screws.