| 摘要 |
<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a toner cartridge designed so that more accurate information about an amount of remaining toner can be externally obtained without using a communication means, and to provide an image forming apparatus. <P>SOLUTION: The toner cartridge 40 includes: a storing space S for storing toner; a spiral spring auger 41; a circular partition plate 42; a toner exhaust port 43; a spiral groove 44 formed on the internal circumferential face; a drive gear 45 for rotating the spring auger 41; and a check window 46 for checking the position of the partition plate 42 from outside. When the spring auger 41 is rotated by the drive force transmitted from the drive gear 45, the partition plate 42 is rotated and advances toward the toner exhaust port 43 along the spiral groove 44. Consequently, the toner is pushed forward in the direction of the toner exhaust port 43 by the partition plate 42. The position of the partition plate 42 interrelates with the amount of remaining toner. Accordingly, the amount of remaining toner can be presumed by checking the position of the partition plate 42 through the check window 46. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT |
