Method and apparatus for replenishing developer with a flexible powder container

摘要

A powder replenishing device and method having a replaceable powder container and a reciprocating mechanism. The replaceable powder container is configured to contain a powder to be replenished to an associated apparatus and is made of a material which allows a change in volume of the replaceable powder container. The powder container has a powder discharge port which discharges the powder from the container. The reciprocating mechanism is configured to reciprocate the powder container such that the volume of the replaceable powder container changes on reciprocation and the powder moves toward the discharge port.