Patent ID: 6892035
Filing Date: 2005-05-10
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
1. A developing device for developing an electrostatic latent image formed on an electrophotographic photosensitive member, said developing device being usable with a main assembly of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, said developing device comprising: an elongate developing member for supplying a developer to the electrophotographic photosensitive member for developing the electrostatic latent image formed on the electrophotographic photosensitive member; a first electrode disposed along a length of said developing member; and a second electrode, disposed along a length of said first electrode, wherein said first electrode is disposed such that at least a lower end thereof takes a position above said second electrode when said developing device is mounted to the main assembly of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus, wherein said second electrode is disposed closer to said developing member than said first electrode, wherein an electrical signal is generated in accordance with an electrostatic capacity between said first electrode and second electrode when said first electrode or second electrode is supplied with a voltage from the main assembly of said electrophotographic image forming apparatus, and is measured by the main assembly of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus to detect a remaining amount of the developer.