Toner level detecting device having a substantially non-uniform

Details Toner level detecting device having a substantially non-uniform Toner level detecting device having a substantially non-uniform

1996-04-29

1997-12-09

Smith, Matthew S.

Electrophotography

Control of electrophotography process

Control of developing

399 30, 399 64, G03G 1510

Patent

active

056970145

ABSTRACT:
A toner level detecting device on a toner fillable box includes first and second toner detecting portions formed of a light transmissive material and a toner fillable aperture formed between the first and second toner detecting portions, wherein the toner fillable aperture has a non-uniform width. The toner fillable aperture is cleaned using a cleaning blade mounted to rotate within the toner fillable aperture to clean toner from the inside surfaces thereof, thereby providing more accurate toner level detection. The toner fillable aperture is a generally V-shaped or U-shaped member having smooth transitions such that toner does not collect or accumulate in corners where a cleaning blade cannot reach after possible being deformed during use. Furthermore, the material of at least a portion of the toner fillable aperture and/or the toner detecting portions is formed of a semi-transparent material that absorbs latent light that might otherwise cause inaccurate toner level measurement.

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