| 摘要 |
The present invention relates generally to materials handling and in particular to apparatus for dispensing materials in fine powder form, such as for example toner. According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a dispenser device including: a dispenser device body ( 10 ) having an inlet end ( 14 ) and an outlet end ( 16 ); a transport passage ( 12 ) arranged therebetween, wherein the cross-sectional internal dimension at the inlet end ( 22 ) of the transport passage ( 12 ) are equal to or smaller than the cross-sectional internal dimension at the outlet end ( 16 ) of the transport passage ( 12 ); at least two sealable connector sections ( 18, 20 ), located at or near the inlet ( 14 ) and outlet ends ( 16 ), the device when in use being sealingly connectable with filler vessels and unfilled vessels respectively. The arrangement is such that the sealable connection between said dispenser device and said unfilled vessel provides a substantially air tight seal so that air within the unfilled vessel is displaced by powder from the filler vessel and passes through the transport passage during the filling operation. This provides for a significant advantage in that the air causes agitation of the material within the passage, reducing the chances of clogging and blockage. |
