Abstract: An apparatus for dispersing and/or transporting/migrating particles such as toner that may be prone to agglomeration in a particle dispensing system. Movement and/or vibration of the dispersing and migrating plate member serves to break up, clear and prevent particle agglomerations. Perforations, slits or mesh areas in the upper surface of the plate member can prevent oversize particles/agglomerations from passing through the system, while side walls, fins or disposing the plate member at a angle can channelize the dispersion of the particles contacting the upper surface of the plate member.

Abstract: Developing apparatus for electrostatic type copying or reproduction machines using dry toner having heating means to heat the developing material whenever temperatures thereof fall below a preset minimum and/or humidity thereof rises above a preset maximum to thereby reduce humidity and absorption of moisture into the developing material. A controller operates the heating means in response to developing material temperatures and/or humidity conditions. Further control means prevents overheating of the developing material. In one embodiment, operation of the heating means is inhibited during operation of the reproduction machine while in another, the heating means is operated on a clock cycle.