Patent ID: 6560430
Filing Date: 2003-05-06
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
A developing unit having a developing member that supplies toner to an electrostatic latent image formed on an image bearing body, and a supplying member that rotates in contact with the developing member to supply the toner to the developing member, the developing unit comprising:an opening formed in an upper portion of the developing unit through which the toner is received from outside, the toner falling through the opening directly onto an area in which the developing member and the supplying member are in contact with each other; and a developing blade that is in pressure contact with the developing member to form a thin layer of toner on the developing member; wherein said developing blade is in contact with the developing member at a first nip and said supplying member is in contact with the developing member at a second nip, a center-to-center distance between the first nip and the second nip being greater than about 5.84 mm.