Patent ID: 7925188
Filing Date: 2011-04-12
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
1. A development device to develop an electrostatic latent image formed on a photoconductive surface with a developer formed of toner and carrier, the device comprising: a developer roller configured to supply toner particles to the electrostatic latent image; a developer reservoir configured to hold the developer therewithin for application to the developer roller; a rotatable conveyor configured to rotate within the developer reservoir to convey the developer toward the developer roller; and a replenisher unit, having a tubular member terminating at a port opening in the developer reservoir, configured to direct particulate material through the tubular member into the developer reservoir via the port, the particulate material being toner particles, carrier particles, or a mixture of toner particles and a given amount of carrier particles, the port being submerged in the developer within the developer reservoir as the rotatable conveyor rotates, wherein the replenisher unit directs the particulate material through the tubular member obliquely downward into the developer reservoir with the port facing toward the outer periphery of the rotatable conveyor such that the particulate material is traveling downward at a point of entry into the developer reservoir from the replenisher unit.