Patent ID: 8620195
Filing Date: 2013-12-31
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
1. A toner supply apparatus comprising a development device having a first shaft that rotates about a first rotation axis; a toner storage container for supplying toner to the development device and having a second shaft that rotates about a second rotation axis extending along the first rotation axis; and a shaft connection mechanism having a first joint and a second joint, and the first joint and the second joint engaging to enable connection of the first shaft and the second shaft in a direction along the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis, and enabling transmission of rotation between the first shaft and the second shaft; wherein the first joint having a first main body being substantially incapable of rotation with respect to either one of the first shaft or the second shaft, a first engagement member biased from the first main body towards the second joint, and a biasing member for biasing the first engagement member; the second joint having a second main body being substantially incapable of rotation with respect to the other of the first shaft or the second shaft, and an engaging recessed portion being provided on the second main body, opening towards the first joint, enabling accommodation of the first engagement member of the first joint and engaging with the accommodated first engagement member in a configuration that is substantially incapable of rotation; and when the first engagement member is accommodated in the engaging recessed portion and the first rotation axis is not aligned with the second rotation axis, the first engagement member inclines relative to the first rotation axis or the second rotation axis and can engage with the engaging recessed portion in that configuration.