Image forming apparatus and method, process cartridge, developing device and method, and developer container, each feeding developer and removing particles of developer from windows or light guiding means of container

摘要

A developer container for accommodating a developer used for developing an electrostatic latent image formed on an electrophotographic photosensitive member by means of a developing member for developing the electrostatic latent image includes, a first light-transmitting window for guiding detection light emitted from a light emitting member provided in a main body of an image forming apparatus into the developer container, in order to detect a remaining amount of the developer accommodated within the developer container when the developer container is mounted in the main body of the image forming apparatus, a second light-transmitting window for guiding the detection light entering from the first light-transmitting window and passing through the developer container to a photosensing member provided in the main body of the image forming apparatus, in order to detect the remaining amount of the developer accommodated within the developer container when the developer container is mounted in the main body of the image forming apparatus, and a rotatable feeding member including a stirring blade for feeding the developer within the developer container toward the developing member when rotating, and for removing particles of the developer adhering to the first light-transmitting window and the second light-transmitting window by contacting the first light-transmitting window and the second light-transmitting window. At least one of the respective inner surfaces of the first light-transmitting window and the second light-transmitting window facing the inside of the developer container is a circular convex portion, convex along a longitudinal direction of the rotating feeding member.