SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DISPENSING POWDERS

摘要

A dispensing system for containing and dispensing powders, such as toner a nd developers, includes a dispensing container having an outlet and a chamber that contains powder. A fluidizing system introduces a gas into the chamber to increase the fluidity of the powder. The dispensing system includes a valve having a first portion attached to the dispensing container, and a second portion that attaches to a receiving container that receives the powder dispensed from the dispensing container. The valve is operable to dispense the powder from the dispensing container t o the receiving container. The fluidizing system includes a porous member in the chamber and a gas source that flows a gas into the chamber through the porous member to fluidize the powder and enhance dispensing of the powder.