Apparatus for supplying electrophotographic developer

摘要

Apparatus for supplying electrophotographic developer to an electrophotographic developing device is disclosed. The developer supply apparatus includes a cartridge containing therein an amount of developer and supported within the housing of the supply apparatus in a manner that the cartridge is allowed to move rotationally and reciprocally around and along its axis. The cartridge has an opening at its one end and also a plural number of ribs provided within the cartridge. During the movement of the cartridge, the ribs stir the developer contained in the cartridge and also cause the developer to move toward the opening. The cartridge is brought into motion responding to a supply signal so as to effect a supply of developer from the cartridge to the developing device.