Patent US6549744B2 successfully refreshed from Google Patents.
US6549744B2
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Powder container for an image forming apparatus and powder discharging device
Assignee: Ricoh Co Ltd
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Filing: 2001-01-03
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Granted: 2003-04-15
•
Expires: 2021-01-03
Abstract
Abstract A powder container for an electrophotographic image forming apparatus includes a deformable bag and a powder discharging portion made up of a tapered portion and a toner outlet. A buckling reducing device reduces the buckling of part of the bag adjoining the tapered portion and toner outlet. The toner container prevents the discharge of powder from being deteriorated by buckling, thereby reducing the amount of powder to be left in the container. Further, a device is provided for maintaining the upright position of the bag. A toner discharging device for discharging the toner from the toner container is also disclosed.
Inventors
- 👤 Seiji Terazawa
- 👤 Fumio Ogata
- 👤 Goro Katsuyama
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-27 15:37
CPC Classifications
G; G03; G03G; G03G15/00; G03G15/06; G03G15/08; B; B65; B65D; B65D77/00; B65D77/04; B65D77/06; G03G15/0822; G03G15/0848; G03G15/0849; G03G15/0855; G03G15/0865; G03G15/0874; G03G2215/00; G03G2215/06; G03G2215/066; G03G2215/068; G03G2215/0682; Y; Y10; Y10S; Y10S222/00; Y10S222/01
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 124
Claim 1
Independent Claim
86 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means is provided on said bag, and said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces integral with said tapered portion.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
86 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means is provided on said bag, and said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces integral with said tapered portion.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
22 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said auxiliary pieces comprise excess pieces formed during production of said bag.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
22 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 2 , wherein said auxiliary pieces are heat-sealed over entire range of said auxiliary pieces.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
24 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 3 , wherein said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
15 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said bag stores the powder.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
135 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means is provided on said bag, wherein said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces integral with said tapered portion, said auxiliary pieces comprise excess pieces formed during production of said bag, said auxiliary pieces are heat-sealed over entire range of said auxiliary pieces, said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, and said buckling reducing means additionally is provided on said box.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
135 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means is provided on said bag, wherein said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces integral with said tapered portion, said auxiliary pieces comprise excess pieces formed during production of said bag, said auxiliary pieces are heat-sealed over entire range of said auxiliary pieces, said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, and said buckling reducing means additionally is provided on said box.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
151 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means is provided on said bag, said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces integral with said tapered portion, said auxiliary pieces comprise excess pieces formed during production of said bag, said auxiliary pieces are heat-sealed over entire range of said auxiliary pieces, said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, and said buckling reducing means additionally comprises anti-slip members positioned on surfaces of said box, which face said bag, in such a manner as to contact said bag.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
151 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means is provided on said bag, said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces integral with said tapered portion, said auxiliary pieces comprise excess pieces formed during production of said bag, said auxiliary pieces are heat-sealed over entire range of said auxiliary pieces, said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, and said buckling reducing means additionally comprises anti-slip members positioned on surfaces of said box, which face said bag, in such a manner as to contact said bag.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
41 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 7 , wherein said anti-slip members comprise ribs extending in a direction perpendicular to a direction of powder discharge, at least one of said ribs being positioned above, but close to, said tapered portion.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
32 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 7 , wherein said anti-slip members each have a coefficient of friction of 2.5 or above at least on a surface thereof contacting said bag.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
168 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means is provided on said bag, said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces integral with said tapered portion, said auxiliary pieces comprise excess pieces formed during production of said bag, said auxiliary pieces are heat-sealed over entire range of said auxiliary pieces, said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, and said bag has folded portions at opposite sides on an end face thereof opposite to said discharging portion, and wherein said buckling reducing means additionally comprises an insertion member provided on said box to be inserted in at least one of said folded portions.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
168 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means is provided on said bag, said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces integral with said tapered portion, said auxiliary pieces comprise excess pieces formed during production of said bag, said auxiliary pieces are heat-sealed over entire range of said auxiliary pieces, said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, and said bag has folded portions at opposite sides on an end face thereof opposite to said discharging portion, and wherein said buckling reducing means additionally comprises an insertion member provided on said box to be inserted in at least one of said folded portions.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
35 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 10 , wherein said insertion member is provided on a side wall of said box that is to be closed after insertion of said bag into said box.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
18 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 10 , wherein said insertion member is adhered to said box.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
151 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means is provided on said bag, said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces integral with said tapered portion, said auxiliary pieces comprise excess pieces formed during production of said bag, said auxiliary pieces are heat-sealed over entire range of said auxiliary pieces, and said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag; and a heat-sealed member position on at least a side of said bag, wherein said buckling reducing means additionally nips said heat-sealed portion in cooperation with said box.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
151 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means is provided on said bag, said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces integral with said tapered portion, said auxiliary pieces comprise excess pieces formed during production of said bag, said auxiliary pieces are heat-sealed over entire range of said auxiliary pieces, and said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag; and a heat-sealed member position on at least a side of said bag, wherein said buckling reducing means additionally nips said heat-sealed portion in cooperation with said box.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
49 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 13 , wherein said buckling reducing means comprises a nipping member provided on a side wall of said box, which is to be closed after insertion of said bag into said box, for nipping said heat-sealed portion in cooperation with said box.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
146 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means is provided on said bag, said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces integral with said tapered portion, said auxiliary pieces comprise excess pieces formed during production of said bag, said auxiliary pieces are heat-sealed over entire range of said auxiliary pieces, said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, and said buckling reducing means additionally comprises a shock absorbing piece positioned to substantially fill a space between said bag and said box.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
146 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means is provided on said bag, said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces integral with said tapered portion, said auxiliary pieces comprise excess pieces formed during production of said bag, said auxiliary pieces are heat-sealed over entire range of said auxiliary pieces, said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, and said buckling reducing means additionally comprises a shock absorbing piece positioned to substantially fill a space between said bag and said box.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
20 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 15 , wherein said shock absorbing piece is adhered to said box beforehand.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
15 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 16 , wherein said bag stores the powder.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
77 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, and wherein said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces integral with said tapered portion.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
77 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, and wherein said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces integral with said tapered portion.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
22 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 18 , wherein said auxiliary pieces are heat-sealed over entire range of said auxiliary pieces.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
22 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 18 , wherein said auxiliary pieces comprise excess pieces formed during production of said bag.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
22 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 20 , wherein said auxiliary pieces are heat-sealed over entire range of said auxiliary pieces.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
24 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 21 , wherein said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
125 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces positioned on said tapered portion, said auxiliary pieces comprise excess pieces formed during production of said bag, said auxiliary pieces are heat-sealed over entire range of said auxiliary pieces, said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, and said buckling reducing means additionally is provided on said box.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
125 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces positioned on said tapered portion, said auxiliary pieces comprise excess pieces formed during production of said bag, said auxiliary pieces are heat-sealed over entire range of said auxiliary pieces, said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, and said buckling reducing means additionally is provided on said box.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
151 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces positioned on said tapered portion, said auxiliary pieces comprise excess pieces formed during production of said bag, said auxiliary pieces are heat-sealed over entire range of said auxiliary pieces, said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, said buckling reducing means is provided on said box, and said buckling reducing means additionally comprises anti-slip members positioned on surfaces of said box, which face said bag, in such a manner as to contact said bag.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
151 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces positioned on said tapered portion, said auxiliary pieces comprise excess pieces formed during production of said bag, said auxiliary pieces are heat-sealed over entire range of said auxiliary pieces, said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, said buckling reducing means is provided on said box, and said buckling reducing means additionally comprises anti-slip members positioned on surfaces of said box, which face said bag, in such a manner as to contact said bag.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
41 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 24 , wherein said anti-slip members comprise ribs extending in a direction perpendicular to a direction of powder discharge, at least one of said ribs being positioned above, but close to, said tapered portion.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
32 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 24 , wherein said anti-slip members each have a coefficient of friction of 2.5 or above at least on a surface thereof contacting said bag.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
168 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces positioned on said tapered portion, said auxiliary pieces comprise excess pieces formed during production of said bag, said auxiliary pieces are heat-sealed over entire range of said auxiliary pieces, said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, said buckling reducing means is provided on said box, and said bag has folded portions at opposite sides on an end face thereof opposite to said discharging portion, and wherein said buckling reducing means additionally comprises an insertion member provided on said box to be inserted in at least one of said folded portions.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
168 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces positioned on said tapered portion, said auxiliary pieces comprise excess pieces formed during production of said bag, said auxiliary pieces are heat-sealed over entire range of said auxiliary pieces, said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, said buckling reducing means is provided on said box, and said bag has folded portions at opposite sides on an end face thereof opposite to said discharging portion, and wherein said buckling reducing means additionally comprises an insertion member provided on said box to be inserted in at least one of said folded portions.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
35 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 27 , wherein said insertion member is provided on a side wall of said box that is to be closed after insertion of said bag into said box.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
18 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 27 , wherein said insertion member is adhered to said box.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
151 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces positioned on said tapered portion, said auxiliary pieces comprise excess pieces formed during production of said bag, said auxiliary pieces are heat-sealed over entire range of said auxiliary pieces, said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, and said buckling reducing means is provided on said box; and, a heat-sealed member positioned on at least a side of said bag, wherein said buckling reducing means additionally nips said heat-sealed portion in cooperation with said box.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
151 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces positioned on said tapered portion, said auxiliary pieces comprise excess pieces formed during production of said bag, said auxiliary pieces are heat-sealed over entire range of said auxiliary pieces, said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, and said buckling reducing means is provided on said box; and, a heat-sealed member positioned on at least a side of said bag, wherein said buckling reducing means additionally nips said heat-sealed portion in cooperation with said box.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
49 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 30 , wherein said buckling reducing means comprises a nipping member provided on a side wall of said box, which is to be closed after insertion of said bag into said box, for nipping said heat-sealed portion in cooperation with said box.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
147 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces positioned on said tapered portion, said auxiliary pieces comprise excess pieces formed during production of said bag, said auxiliary pieces are heat-sealed over entire range of said auxiliary pieces, said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, said buckling reducing means additionally is provided on said box, and said buckling reducing means further comprises a shock absorbing piece positioned to substantially fill a space between said bag and said box.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
147 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means comprises leg-like auxiliary pieces positioned on said tapered portion, said auxiliary pieces comprise excess pieces formed during production of said bag, said auxiliary pieces are heat-sealed over entire range of said auxiliary pieces, said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, said buckling reducing means additionally is provided on said box, and said buckling reducing means further comprises a shock absorbing piece positioned to substantially fill a space between said bag and said box.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
20 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 32 , wherein said shock absorbing piece is adhered to said box beforehand.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
15 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 33 , wherein said bag stores the powder.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
104 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, and said buckling reducing means comprises anti-slip members positioned on surfaces of said box, which face said bag, in such a manner as to contact said bag.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
104 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, and said buckling reducing means comprises anti-slip members positioned on surfaces of said box, which face said bag, in such a manner as to contact said bag.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
41 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 35 , wherein said anti-slip members comprise ribs extending in a direction perpendicular to a direction of powder discharge, at least one of said ribs being positioned above, but close to, said tapered portion.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
32 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 35 , wherein said anti-slip members each have a coefficient of friction of 2.5 or above at least on a surface thereof contacting said bag.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
121 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, and said bag has folded portions at opposite sides on an end face thereof opposite to said discharging portion, and wherein said buckling reducing means comprises an insertion member provided on said box to be inserted in at least one of said folded portions.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
121 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, and said bag has folded portions at opposite sides on an end face thereof opposite to said discharging portion, and wherein said buckling reducing means comprises an insertion member provided on said box to be inserted in at least one of said folded portions.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
35 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 38 , wherein said insertion member is provided on a side wall of said box that is to be closed after insertion of said bag into said box.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
18 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 38 , wherein said insertion member is adhered to said box.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
103 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag; and a heat-sealed member positioned on at least a side of said bag, wherein said buckling reducing means nips said heat-sealed portion in cooperation with said box.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
103 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag; and a heat-sealed member positioned on at least a side of said bag, wherein said buckling reducing means nips said heat-sealed portion in cooperation with said box.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
49 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 41 , wherein said buckling reducing means comprises a nipping member provided on a side wall of said box, which is to be closed after insertion of said bag into said box, for nipping said heat-sealed portion in cooperation with said box.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
99 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, and said buckling reducing means comprises a shock absorbing piece positioned to substantially fill a space between said bag and said box.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
99 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said bag is received in a box that is more rigid than said bag, and said buckling reducing means comprises a shock absorbing piece positioned to substantially fill a space between said bag and said box.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
20 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 43 , wherein said shock absorbing piece is adhered to said box beforehand.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
15 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 44 , wherein said bag stores the powder.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
72 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means is provided on said box.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
72 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means is provided on said box.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
36 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 46 , wherein said buckling reducing means comprises anti-slip members positioned on surfaces of said box, which face said bag, in such a manner as to contact said bag.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
41 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 47 , wherein said anti-slip members comprise ribs extending in a direction perpendicular to a direction of powder discharge, at least one of said ribs being positioned above, but close to, said tapered portion.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
32 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 47 , wherein said anti-slip members each have a coefficient of friction of 2.5 or above at least on a surface thereof contacting said bag.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
89 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means comprises anti-slip members positioned on surfaces of said box, which face said bag, in such a manner as to contact said bag.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
89 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means comprises anti-slip members positioned on surfaces of said box, which face said bag, in such a manner as to contact said bag.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
41 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 50 , wherein said anti-slip members comprise ribs extending in a direction perpendicular to a direction of powder discharge, at least one of said ribs being positioned above, but close to, said tapered portion.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
32 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 50 , wherein said anti-slip members each have a coefficient of friction of 2.5 or above at least on a surface thereof contacting said bag.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
106 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said bag has folded portions at opposite sides on an end face thereof opposite to said discharging portion, and wherein said buckling reducing means comprises an insertion member provided on said box to be inserted in at least one of said folded portions.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
106 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said bag has folded portions at opposite sides on an end face thereof opposite to said discharging portion, and wherein said buckling reducing means comprises an insertion member provided on said box to be inserted in at least one of said folded portions.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
35 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 53 , wherein said insertion member is provided on a side wall of said box that is to be closed after insertion of said bag into said box.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
18 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 53 , wherein said insertion member is adhered to said box.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
88 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion; and, a heat-sealed member positioned on at least a side of said bag, wherein said buckling reducing means nips said heat-sealed portion in cooperation with said box.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
88 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion; and, a heat-sealed member positioned on at least a side of said bag, wherein said buckling reducing means nips said heat-sealed portion in cooperation with said box.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
49 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 56 , wherein said buckling reducing means comprises a nipping member provided on a side wall of said box, which is to be closed after insertion of said bag into said box, for nipping said heat-sealed portion in cooperation with said box.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
84 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means comprises a shock absorbing piece positioned to substantially fill a space between said bag and said box.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
84 words
A powder container for storing powder and allowing said powder to be discharged, said powder container comprising: a discharging portion comprising a deformable bag and a tapered portion for discharging the powder; and buckle reducing means for reducing, when said toner container is held in an upright position with said discharging portion facing downward and being fixed, buckling of said tapered portion, wherein said buckling reducing means comprises a shock absorbing piece positioned to substantially fill a space between said bag and said box.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
20 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 58 , wherein said shock absorbing piece is adhered to said box beforehand.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
15 words
A powder container as claimed in claim 59 , wherein said bag stores the powder.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
92 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said bag comprises a powder outlet for discharging the powder and is tapered toward said powder outlet, said position maintaining means maintains said bag in an upright position with said powder outlet facing downward, said position maintaining means maintains the upright position of said bag on the basis of rigidity, and said position maintaining means comprises a support member integral with an outer periphery of said bag in an upright position.
Claim 83
Dependent Claim
92 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said bag comprises a powder outlet for discharging the powder and is tapered toward said powder outlet, said position maintaining means maintains said bag in an upright position with said powder outlet facing downward, said position maintaining means maintains the upright position of said bag on the basis of rigidity, and said position maintaining means comprises a support member integral with an outer periphery of said bag in an upright position.
Claim 84
Dependent Claim
88 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said bag comprises a powder outlet for discharging the powder and is tapered toward said powder outlet, said position maintaining means maintains said bag in an upright position with said powder outlet facing downward, said position maintaining means maintains the upright position of said bag on the basis of rigidity, and said position maintaining means comprises an upright member mounted on an inner periphery of said bag.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim
88 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said bag comprises a powder outlet for discharging the powder and is tapered toward said powder outlet, said position maintaining means maintains said bag in an upright position with said powder outlet facing downward, said position maintaining means maintains the upright position of said bag on the basis of rigidity, and said position maintaining means comprises an upright member mounted on an inner periphery of said bag.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim
50 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said bag comprises a powder outlet for discharging the powder and is tapered toward said powder outlet, and said position maintaining means comprises a member adhered to said bag.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
50 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said bag comprises a powder outlet for discharging the powder and is tapered toward said powder outlet, and said position maintaining means comprises a member adhered to said bag.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
51 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said bag comprises a powder outlet for discharging the powder and is tapered toward said powder outlet, and said position maintaining means comprises a thickened wall portion of said bag.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
51 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said bag comprises a powder outlet for discharging the powder and is tapered toward said powder outlet, and said position maintaining means comprises a thickened wall portion of said bag.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
50 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said bag comprises a powder outlet for discharging the powder and is tapered toward said powder outlet, and said position maintaining means comprises a gas fed into said bag.
Claim 91
Dependent Claim
50 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said bag comprises a powder outlet for discharging the powder and is tapered toward said powder outlet, and said position maintaining means comprises a gas fed into said bag.
Claim 92
Dependent Claim
58 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said position maintaining means maintains the upright position of said bag on the basis of rigidity, and said position maintaining means comprises a support member integral with an outer periphery of said bag in an upright position.
Claim 93
Dependent Claim
58 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said position maintaining means maintains the upright position of said bag on the basis of rigidity, and said position maintaining means comprises a support member integral with an outer periphery of said bag in an upright position.
Claim 94
Dependent Claim
54 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said position maintaining means maintains the upright position of said bag on the basis of rigidity, and said position maintaining means comprises an upright member integral with an inner periphery of said bag.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
54 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said position maintaining means maintains the upright position of said bag on the basis of rigidity, and said position maintaining means comprises an upright member integral with an inner periphery of said bag.
Claim 96
Dependent Claim
58 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said position maintaining means maintains the upright position of said bag on the basis of rigidity, and said position maintaining means comprises a support member integral with an outer periphery of said bag in an upright position.
Claim 97
Dependent Claim
58 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said position maintaining means maintains the upright position of said bag on the basis of rigidity, and said position maintaining means comprises a support member integral with an outer periphery of said bag in an upright position.
Claim 98
Dependent Claim
54 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said position maintaining means maintains the upright position of said bag on the basis of rigidity, and said position maintaining means comprises an upright member mounted on an inner periphery of said bag.
Claim 99
Dependent Claim
54 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said position maintaining means maintains the upright position of said bag on the basis of rigidity, and said position maintaining means comprises an upright member mounted on an inner periphery of said bag.
Claim 100
Dependent Claim
32 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said position maintaining means comprises a member adhered to said bag.
Claim 101
Dependent Claim
32 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said position maintaining means comprises a member adhered to said bag.
Claim 102
Dependent Claim
33 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said position maintaining means comprises a thickened wall portion of said bag.
Claim 103
Dependent Claim
33 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said position maintaining means comprises a thickened wall portion of said bag.
Claim 104
Dependent Claim
32 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said position maintaining means comprises a gas fed into said bag.
Claim 105
Dependent Claim
32 words
A powder container comprising: a deformable bag storing powder; and position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag, wherein said position maintaining means comprises a gas fed into said bag.
Claim 106
Dependent Claim
80 words
In a powder discharging device for discharging coloring powder from a powder container via an outlet formed in said powder container, said powder container comprises: a deformable bag storing the coloring powder; position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag; and a mounting portion for removably mounting said bag; wherein a gas is fed into said bag in order to fluidize the coloring powder and cooperates with said position maintaining means to maintain the position of said bag.
Claim 107
Dependent Claim
80 words
In a powder discharging device for discharging coloring powder from a powder container via an outlet formed in said powder container, said powder container comprises: a deformable bag storing the coloring powder; position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag; and a mounting portion for removably mounting said bag; wherein a gas is fed into said bag in order to fluidize the coloring powder and cooperates with said position maintaining means to maintain the position of said bag.
Claim 108
Dependent Claim
18 words
A device as claimed in claim 73 , wherein said position maintaining means is provided on said bag.
Claim 109
Dependent Claim
19 words
A device as claimed in claim 73 , wherein said position maintaining means is provided on said mounting portion.
Claim 110
Dependent Claim
18 words
A device as claimed in claim 75 , further comprising adjusting means for adjusting pressure inside said bag.
Claim 111
Dependent Claim
24 words
A device as claimed in claim 76 , wherein said adjusting means comprises a filter member that passes the gas, but blocks the powder.
Claim 112
Dependent Claim
36 words
A device as claimed in claim 75 , wherein the gas is fed to said bag in an amount, which substantially inflates said bag, in accordance with an amount of adjustment available with said adjustment means.
Claim 113
Dependent Claim
39 words
A device as claimed in claim 73 , wherein an amount of the gas to be fed into said bag is greater than an amount to flow out of said bag when the coloring powder is to be discharged.
Claim 114
Dependent Claim
36 words
A device as claimed in claim 79 , wherein the gas is fed to said bag in an amount, which substantially inflates said bag, in accordance with an amount of adjustment available with said adjustment means.
Claim 115
Dependent Claim
24 words
A device as claimed in claim 79 , wherein said adjusting means comprises a filter member that passes the gas, but blocks the powder.
Claim 116
Dependent Claim
18 words
A device as claimed in claim 73 , further comprising adjusting means for adjusting pressure inside said bag.
Claim 117
Dependent Claim
24 words
A device as claimed in claim 82 , wherein said adjusting means comprises a filter member that passes the gas, but blocks the powder.
Claim 118
Dependent Claim
36 words
A device as claimed in claim 73 , wherein the gas is fed to said bag in an amount, which substantially inflates said bag, in accordance with an amount of adjustment available with said adjustment means.
Claim 119
Dependent Claim
92 words
In an image forming apparatus constructed to transfer coloring powder from a powder container to a developing unit via a powder outlet formed in said powder container by using a powder discharging device, said powder container comprises: a deformable bag storing the coloring powder; position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag; and a mounting portion for removably mounting said bag; wherein a gas is fed into said bag in order to fluidize the coloring powder and cooperates with said position maintaining means to maintain the position of said bag.
Claim 120
Dependent Claim
92 words
In an image forming apparatus constructed to transfer coloring powder from a powder container to a developing unit via a powder outlet formed in said powder container by using a powder discharging device, said powder container comprises: a deformable bag storing the coloring powder; position maintaining means for maintaining a position of said bag; and a mounting portion for removably mounting said bag; wherein a gas is fed into said bag in order to fluidize the coloring powder and cooperates with said position maintaining means to maintain the position of said bag.
Claim 121
Dependent Claim
83 words
In a powder discharging device for discharging coloring powder from a powder container via an outlet formed in said powder container, said powder container comprises: a deformable bag storing the coloring powder; a position maintaining device configured to maintain a position of said bag; and a mounting portion configured to removably mount said bag; wherein a gas is fed into said bag in order to fluidize the coloring powder and cooperates with said position maintaining device to maintain the position of said bag.
Claim 122
Dependent Claim
83 words
In a powder discharging device for discharging coloring powder from a powder container via an outlet formed in said powder container, said powder container comprises: a deformable bag storing the coloring powder; a position maintaining device configured to maintain a position of said bag; and a mounting portion configured to removably mount said bag; wherein a gas is fed into said bag in order to fluidize the coloring powder and cooperates with said position maintaining device to maintain the position of said bag.
Claim 123
Dependent Claim
94 words
In an image forming apparatus constructed to transfer coloring powder from a powder container to a developing unit via a powder outlet formed in said powder container by using a powder discharging device, said powder container comprises: a deformable bag storing the coloring powder; a position maintaining device configured to maintain a position of said bag; and a mounting portion for removably mounting said bag; wherein a gas is fed into said bag in order to fluidize the coloring powder and cooperates with said position maintaining device to maintain the position of said bag.
Claim 124
Dependent Claim
94 words
In an image forming apparatus constructed to transfer coloring powder from a powder container to a developing unit via a powder outlet formed in said powder container by using a powder discharging device, said powder container comprises: a deformable bag storing the coloring powder; a position maintaining device configured to maintain a position of said bag; and a mounting portion for removably mounting said bag; wherein a gas is fed into said bag in order to fluidize the coloring powder and cooperates with said position maintaining device to maintain the position of said bag.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 2006-04-14 | 2006-10-14 | 2007-04-15 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2010-04-14 | 2010-10-14 | 2011-04-15 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2014-04-14 | 2014-10-14 | 2015-04-15 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |