Patent ID: 9052679
Filing Date: 2015-06-09
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
1. A cleaning device used in an image forming apparatus, the cleaning device comprising: a cleaning member configured to remove a developer from an image bearing member, the cleaning member being attached to a fixing portion provided in a frame, the cleaning member including a blade portion contacting the image bearing member in a counter direction with respect to a moving direction of the image bearing member, a flexible supporting member configured to support the blade portion including one end portion in which the blade portion is provided, the other end portion having a portion to be fixed to the fixing portion, and a bent portion arranged between the one end portion and the other end portion, the bent portion being arranged outward, with respect to the line segment connecting a contact portion where the blade contacts the image bearing member, with the portion to be fixed, away from the surface of the image bearing member, including the supporting member where the portion to be fixed, is arranged with respect to the contact portion, at the downstream side in the movement direction of the image bearing member, wherein the portion to be fixed is positioned lower than the bent portion in the vertical direction; and a container configured to store the developer removed from the image bearing member, the container being formed of the frame, wherein between the frame and the other end portion, a space allowing the other end portion to elastically deform is provided, and the container is provided with a sealing member configured to prevent intrusion of the developer into the space.