Abstract: A cleaning method for cleaning a developer container includes a step of blowing air through an opening formed in the developer container at a first flow rate; a step of sucking air through the opening at a second flow rate which is larger than the first flow rate; wherein while the blowing and suction steps are being simultaneously carried out, ambient air is permitted to enter the developer container through an ambient air inlet.

Abstract: A cleaning method for cleaning a developer container includes a step of blowing air through an opening formed in the developer container at a first flow rate; a step of sucking air through the opening at a second flow rate which is larger than the first flow rate; wherein while the blowing and suction steps are being simultaneously carried out, ambient air is permitted to enter the developer container through an ambient air inlet.

Abstract: An electromagnetically controlled spring clutch mechanism for selectively connecting drivingly a first rotating element and a second rotating element. The spring clutch mechanism comprises a rotating shaft, a rotor adapted to be rotated as a unit with the rotating shaft, an armature assembly including an armature member, a supporting member and a biasing spring member disposed between the armature member and the supporting member, an electromagnetic device for magnetically attracting the armature member to the rotor, a first boss member adapted to rotate as a unit with the rotating shaft, a second boss member adapted to rotate as a unit with the second rotating element, and a coil spring wound in a predetermined direction and received about, and spanning, the first and second boss members.