Patent ID: 7127198
Filing Date: 2006-10-24
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
1. An image forming apparatus comprising: a developing unit configured to develop a latent image formed on an image carrier with a two-ingredient type developer made up of a toner and a carrier; toner replenishing means for replenishing a toner stored in a toner storing portion to said developing unit; and a carrier storing portion storing a carrier and constructed independently of said toner storing portion; wherein the carrier is fed from said carrier storing portion to said developing unit by a toner conveying force of said toner replenishing means; and wherein the carrier joins the toner in a toner replenishing path extending from said toner storing portion to said developing unit, said apparatus further comprising a replenishing member disposed in a carrier replenishing path between said carrier storing portion and said toner replenishing path and configured to prevent the toner from entering said carrier storing portion and replenish the carrier by a preselected amount.