Abstract: Embodiments of a device to move waste toner within an image forming device. In one embodiment, waste toner is formed during the image formation process. The waste toner is captured and moved through a first conduit. The conduit includes an outlet for passing the waste toner to a second conduit. The door is positionable between an open orientation to allow the waste toner to discharge into the second conduit, and a closed orientation. The second conduit includes an inlet for receiving the waste toner. The interface between the first and second conduits allows for the door to move between the open and closed orientations. The interface also greatly reduces or prevents the waste toner from leaking as it passes from the first conduit into the second conduit.

Abstract: A photoconductive drum may be located and supported in an image forming apparatus via bushings at each end of a drum axle. The bushings may be produced from a single die cavity and may include orientation features which may be employed to key the bushings with a housing, such as a toner cartridge cleaner housing.

Abstract: Embodiments for a toner auger for use in an image forming device. The image forming device includes a channel through which toner is moved. The auger is positioned within the channel and has an axis of rotation and at least one offset section extending radially outward from the axis of rotation. The offset section forms a sweep envelope that extends outward from the axis of rotation. The auger may be positioned within the channel for the offset to contact the channel. Contact may cause a vibratory force that prevents the toner from clogging and bridging within the channel.

Abstract: A photoconductive member for an image forming apparatus includes a hollow, conductive cylindrical drum; an insulating end cap disposed axially within the drum at either end thereof, each end cap including an axial bore; a shaft disposed axially through the drum and the bores, the shaft electrically isolated from the drum by the end caps; and an electrical contact assembly operative to bias the drum, but not the shaft, to an operating voltage.

Abstract: A device and method of connecting a cartridge unit to a door assembly of an image forming device. The door assembly includes a first mount having a first configuration, and a second mount having a second different configuration. The cartridge unit includes a first attachment for connecting to the first mount, and a second attachment for connecting to the second mount. The cartridge unit is connected and does not become disengaged when the door assembly moves between open and closed orientations. Method of using the attachments are also disclosed that include mounting one of the attachments to the corresponding mount, and then moving the cartridge unit to mount the other attachment to the other mount.

Abstract: A toner fill plug for a toner cartridge within an image forming device. The cartridge includes a toner reservoir having a port through which toner is input. The plug is sized to fit within the port and prevent toner leakage. The plug includes a reflector which aligns with an adjacently-positioned toner level sensor for determining the amount of toner remaining within the reservoir. The plug is removable to allow the user to refill the reservoir with new toner.