Patent ID: 6336014
Filing Date: 2002-01-01
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
A developing device for developing a latent static-electric image into a visible image from developer, the developing device comprising:a developing case for holding developer, the developing case being formed with an elongated opening; a developer bearing body disposed in the opening of the developing case, with lengthwise ends of the developer bearing body rotatably supported on the developing case; a developer layer thickness regulator including: a pressing member that is formed from rubber or resin and that extends in a lengthwise direction of the developer bearing body; and a plate spring member that supports the pressing member pressingly against an outer periphery of the developer bearing body to form a thin layer of developer on the developer bearing body, the plate spring member extending in the lengthwise direction of the developer bearing body to a longer length than the pressing member and the pressing member being separated from the lengthwise ends of the plate spring member, thereby leaving end portions of the plate spring member uncovered by the pressing member; and contact members each for slidingly contacting a corresponding peripheral surface of the developer bearing body near a corresponding lengthwise end of the developer bearing body, each contact member being attached to a corresponding one of the end portions of the plate spring member and extending to cover the corresponding end portion.