I-Tek, Inc.

Charles E Myers

James E Genthe

A toner dispensing apparatus for electrophotographic copiers. The dispenser includes an elongated hollow tubular member extending across the developer assembly of the copier within which is positioned a rotatable auger of novel construction having a helical groove formed around its surface. One end of the auger extends out of the tubular member into a toner supply container which is adapted to feed fresh toner into the groove of the auger. Rotation of the auger transports closely metered amounts of toner from the supply container into and along the tubular member and as it is carried there along, the toner will be automatically dispensed in precise amounts through a plurality of apertures extending along the bottom of the tubular member. According to one important feature of the invention, the toner dispenser is supported across the developer assembly in a position to dispense toner into the developer as it is falling from the development zone toward the elevator sump. This provides an opportunity for effective mixing of the toner with the developer without the need for rotating mixing screws or the like in the elevator sump, although a stationary crossmixer is preferably provided to assist in the mixing activity.

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Woburn, MA, United States of America

Charles E Myers