Developing device capable of preventing toner inside developing chamber from entering hopper

摘要

A developing device 31 includes three shielding members 20 that divide an inner space of the developing device 31 into a developing chamber 23 and toner hopper chambers 21. The shielding members 20 in predetermined conditions prevent toner inside the developing chamber 23 from entering the toner hopper chambers 21. When toner empty condition of the developing chamber 23 is detected, the shielding member 20a is driven to rotate so as to supply toner 22a into the developing chamber 23. When the toner empty condition is detected for the second time, then the shielding members 20a, 20b are driven to rotate for supplying toner 22b to the developing chamber 23. In this manner toner can be supplied to the developing chamber 23 without allowing the toner returning to the toner hopper chambers 21.