BR112017016420B1 - REMOVABLE CARTRIDGE FROM A MAIN ASSEMBLY OF ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGE MAKING APPARATUS - Google Patents

Abstract

CARTRIDGE, PHOTOSENSITIVE MEMBER UNIT AND ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGE MAKING APPARATUS. The present invention provides a cartridge that is detachable from the main assembly without deteriorating utility performance in a predetermined direction substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis of an image-carrying member, the main assembly not being provided with the mechanism for moving the image engaging portion. main mounting side in the rotational axis direction with respect to the opening and closing operation of the main mounting cover of the main assembly. With movement of the cartridge in such a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis of the image-carrying member, upon disassembly of the cartridge from the main assembly of the electrophotographic image-forming apparatus, the coupling member movable in a direction parallel to the rotational axis of the image-carrying member image enters an interior of a recess of the main mounting side engagement portion provided in the main assembly of the apparatus for receiving a rotational force from the main mounting side engagement portion.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a cartridge, a photosensitive member unit and an electrophotographic image forming apparatus to which said cartridge and/or said photosensitive member unit are detachably mountable.

[0002] The electrophotographic image forming apparatus includes an electrophotographic copying machine, an electrophotographic printer (laser beam printer, LED printer or the like) and so on, for example.

[0003] The process cartridge is a unit that includes an image-bearing member (photosensitive member) and at least one of process means actuatable in the image-bearing member that is unified in a cartridge detachably mountable to a main assembly of the electrophotographic image forming device. The process medium includes developing medium, loading medium, cleaning medium or the like. An example of the process cartridge may be a unit that includes the image-bearing member and the loading means as the process means that are unified into a cartridge. Another example may be a unit that includes the image-bearing member and the loading means and the cleaning means as the process means that are unified into a cartridge. Further example may be a unit that includes the image-bearing member and the developing medium, the loading medium and the cleaning medium as the process medium that are unified in a cartridge.

[0004] The cartridge and photosensitive member unit can be assembled to and disassembled from the main assembly of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus by the user. Therefore, maintenance of the device can actually be carried out by the user without relying on a service person. Thus, the maintenance operation for the electrophotographic image forming apparatus is improved.

FOUNDATION TECHNIQUE

[0005] A conventional main assembly of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus is not provided with a mechanism for moving a main assembly side engaging portion to transmit rotational force to a rotatable member such as the image-bearing member in a direction of a rotational axis direction thereof by opening and closing operation of a main assembly cover. A process cartridge is known that is detachable from the main assembly in a predetermined direction substantially perpendicular to a rotational axis of the rotating member. As a rotational force transmission means engageable with the main mounting side engagement portion for transmitting rotational force to the rotating member, a cartridge side engagement portion (coupling member) provided on the process cartridge is known. For example, in a non-frame (JP 2009 - 134284), the coupling member is made movably in the direction of its rotational axis, so that in the assembly and disassembly operation of the process cartridge relative to the main assembly, the engagement and disengagement of the coupling member is carried out.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Problem to be Solved

[0006] The present invention provides a further disclosure, and provides a cartridge or photosensitive member unit that is detachable from the main assembly without deteriorating utility performance in a predetermined direction substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis of the rotating member, the main assembly not being provided with the mechanism for moving the main assembly side engagement portion in the rotational axis direction in response to the opening and closing operation of the main assembly cover of the main assembly. Furthermore, the present invention provides an electrophotographic image forming apparatus of which the cartridge and/or photosensitive member unit is detachable.

Means to Solve the Problem

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided, as a first invention, a detachable cartridge of a main assembly of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus including a rotatable main assembly side engagement portion, said cartridge comprising: i ) a rotatable member capable of carrying a developer and having a rotational axis extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to a disassembly direction of said cartridge; and ii) a coupling member provided to an end portion of said cartridge with respect to the rotational axis for transmitting a rotational force from the main mounting engagement portion to said rotatable member, said coupling member being movable between a first position at which the rotational axis of said coupling member is substantially parallel to the rotational axis of said rotatable member, and a second position in which the rotational axis of said coupling member is substantially parallel to the rotational axis of said rotatable member and in which said coupling member is displaced from the first position in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis of said rotating member and is displaced from the first position in a direction of the rotational axis of said rotating member to the other end portion of said cartridge.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a detachable photosensitive member unit of a main assembly of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus including a rotatable main mounting side engagement portion, said photosensitive member unit comprising: i ) a photosensitive member having a rotational axis extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of disassembly of said photosensitive member unit; and ii) a coupling member provided with an end portion of said photosensitive member for transmitting a rotational force to said photosensitive member of the main mounting engagement portion, said coupling member being movable between a first position in which a rotational axis of said coupling member is substantially aligned with the rotational axis of said photosensitive member, and a second position in which the rotational axis of said coupling member is substantially parallel to the rotational axis of said photosensitive member and in which said coupling member is displaced from first position for the other end portion of said photosensitive member in a direction of the rotational axis of said photosensitive member.

[0009] According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cartridge detachably mountable to a main assembly of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, said cartridge comprising: i) a rotatable member capable of carrying a developer; and ii) a coupling member provided at an end of said cartridge with respect to a rotational axis direction of said rotating member for transmitting a rotational force to said rotating member, said coupling member being movable between a first position at which an axis rotational axis of said coupling member is substantially parallel to the rotational axis of said rotatable member, and a second position in which the rotational axis of said coupling member is substantially parallel to the rotational axis of said rotatable member and in which said coupling member is displaced from the first position in a direction substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis of said rotating member and is displaced from the first position in a direction from the rotational axis of said rotating member to the other end portion of said cartridge.

[0010] According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cartridge detachably mountable to a main assembly of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, said cartridge comprising: i) a rotatable member capable of carrying a developer; and ii) a rotational force transmitting member, provided at the other end of said rotatable member with respect to a longitudinal direction thereof, for transmitting a rotational force to said rotatable member; and iii) a coupling member, provided on said rotational force transmitting member, for transmitting rotational force to said rotational force transmitting member, said coupling member being movable to the other end portion in the longitudinal direction of said member rotary with movement of a rotational axis of said coupling member away from the rotational axis of said rotational force transmission member while maintaining significant parallelism with the rotational axis of said rotational force transmission member.

[0011] According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a photosensitive member unit usable in a detachably mountable process cartridge to a main assembly of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus, said photosensitive member unit comprising: i) a photosensitive limb; and ii) a coupling member provided with a longitudinal end of said photosensitive member for transmitting a rotational force to said photosensitive member, said coupling member being movable between a first position in which a rotational axis of said photosensitive member is substantially aligned with a rotational axis of said coupling member and a second position in which the rotational axis of said photosensitive member and the rotational axis of said coupling member are spaced apart and substantially parallel to each other and in which said coupling member is displaced from the first position for the other longitudinal end of said photosensitive member.

[0012] According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a photosensitive member unit usable in a detachably mountable process cartridge to a main assembly of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus, said photosensitive member unit comprising: i) a photosensitive limb; and ii) a flange provided to a longitudinal end of said photosensitive member for transmitting a rotational force to said photosensitive member; iii) a coupling member that is mounted on said flange so as to be movable while maintaining significant parallelism between a rotational axis of said flange and a rotational axis of said coupling member for transmitting rotational force to said flange,

[0013] wherein said coupling member receives a force from said flange to move to the other longitudinal end of said photosensitive member with such movement of said coupling member that the rotational axis of said coupling member is away from the rotational axis of said flange of the state in which they are substantially aligned with each other.

[0014] In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cartridge mountable to a main assembly of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus including a rotatable main assembly side engagement portion, said cartridge comprising: i) a rotatable member capable of of carrying a developer and having a rotational axis extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to a mounting direction of said cartridge; and ii) a coupling member provided to an end portion of said cartridge with respect to the rotational axis for transmitting a rotational force from the main mounting engagement portion to said rotatable member, said coupling member being movable between a first position at which the rotational axis of said coupling member is substantially parallel to the rotational axis of said rotatable member, and a second position in which the rotational axis of said coupling member is substantially parallel to the rotational axis of said rotatable member and in which said coupling member is displaced from the first position in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis of said rotating member and is displaced from the first position in a direction of the rotational axis of said rotating member to the other end portion of said cartridge.

[0015] According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a photosensitive member unit mountable to a main assembly of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus including a rotatable main mounting side engagement portion, said photosensitive member unit comprising: i) a photosensitive member having a rotational axis substantially perpendicular to a mounting direction of said photosensitive member unit; ii) a coupling member provided with an end portion of said photosensitive member for transmitting a rotational force to said photosensitive member of the main mounting engagement portion, said coupling member being movable between a first position in which a rotational axis of said coupling member is substantially aligned with the rotational axis of said photosensitive member, and a second position in which the rotational axis of said coupling member is substantially parallel to the rotational axis of said photosensitive member and in which said coupling member is displaced from the first position for the other end portion of said photosensitive member in a direction of the rotational axis of said photosensitive member.

Effect of the Invention

[0016] In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a cartridge or photosensitive member unit that is detachable (or mountable) from the main assembly without deteriorating utility performance in a predetermined direction substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis of the rotating member, the main assembly not being provided with the mechanism for moving the main mounting side engagement portion in the rotational axis direction in response to the opening and closing operation of the main mounting cover of the main assembly. Furthermore, the present invention provides an electrophotographic image forming apparatus of which the cartridge and/or the photosensitive member unit is detachable or to which the cartridge and/or the photosensitive member unit is mountable.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 is a schematic sectional side view of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of a main assembly of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of a schematic perspective view in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an operation of assembling the process cartridge to the main assembly of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 5 is a sectional side view of the process cartridge according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view of a first frame unit in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 7 is a schematic perspective view of a second frame unit in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 8 illustrates the connection of the first frame unit and the second frame unit in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 9 is a schematic perspective view of a photosensitive member unit in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 10 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the assembly of the photosensitive member unit on the second frame unit in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 11 is a schematic perspective view and a schematic sectional view of the photosensitive member unit in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 12 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a drive side flange unit in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 13 is a schematic perspective view of a coupling member in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 14 is a schematic side view of the coupling member according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 15 is a schematic perspective view and a schematic sectional view of a drive side flange in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 16 is an illustration of the drive side flange, a slider and a retaining pin in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 17 is an illustration of the operation of the coupling member according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 18 is a schematic perspective view and a schematic sectional view showing a main mounting side engagement portion in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 19 is an illustration of a support structure of the main mounting side engagement portion in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 20 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a midway state of the process cartridge assembly when viewed from the drive side in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 21 is an illustration of the operation at the time when the coupling member is engaged with the main mounting side engagement portion in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 22 is an enlarged illustration of the operation at the time when the coupling member is engaged with the main mounting side engagement portion in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 23 is an illustration of the operation at the time when the coupling member is engaged with the main mounting side engagement portion in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 24 is an illustration of the operation at the time when the coupling member is engaged with the main mounting side engagement portion in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 25 is an illustration of a state in which process cartridge assembly is completed in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 26 is a schematic perspective view and a schematic sectional view illustrating a drive structure for the main assembly of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus and the photosensitive member unit in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 27 is a perspective sectional view showing a rotational force transmission path in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 28 is a sectional view showing a current state of rotational force transmission in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 29 is an illustration of an operating state at the time when the coupling member is disengaged from the main mounting side engagement portion in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 30 is an enlarged illustration of the operating state at the time when the coupling member is disengaged from the main mounting side engagement portion in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 31 is an illustration of an operating state at the time when the coupling member is disengaged from the main mounting side engagement portion in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 32 is an illustration of an operating state at the time when the coupling member is disengaged from the main mounting side engagement portion in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 33 is an illustration of an operating state at the time when the coupling member is disengaged from the main mounting side engagement portion in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 34 is a schematic perspective view of the coupling member and the main mounting side engagement portion in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 35 is an illustration of the operation at the time when the coupling member is engaged with the main mounting side engagement portion in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 36 is an illustration of an operating state at the time when the coupling member is disengaged from the main mounting side engagement portion in the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 37 is an exploded illustration of a coupling unit in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 38 is a schematic perspective view in a schematic sectional view of the photosensitive member unit in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 39 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the drive side flange unit in the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Figure 40 is an illustration of the operations of the coupling member and the coupling unit in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 41 is an illustration of the operations of the coupling member and the coupling unit in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 42 is an illustration of the operations of the coupling member and the coupling unit in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 43 is an illustration of the operations of the coupling member and the coupling unit in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 44 is an illustration of the operating state at the time when the coupling member is engaged with the main mounting side engagement portion in the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Figure 45 is an enlarged illustration of the operating state at the time when the coupling member is engaged with the main mounting side engagement portion in the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 46 is an illustration of the operating state at the time when the coupling member is engaged with the main mounting side engagement portion in the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 47 is a perspective sectional view showing the rotational force transmission path in the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 48 is an illustration of the operating state at the time when the coupling member is disengaged from the main mounting side engagement portion in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 49 is an enlarged illustration of the operating state at the time when the coupling member is disengaged from the main mounting side engagement portion in the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Figure 50 is an illustration of the operating state at the time when the coupling member is disengaged from the main mounting side engagement portion in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 51 is an enlarged illustration of the operating state at the time when the coupling member is disengaged from the main mounting side engagement portion in the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Figure 52 is a schematic perspective view of the coupling member and the main mounting side engagement portion in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 53 is an illustration of the operating state at the time when the coupling member is disengaged from the main mounting side engagement portion in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 54 is an illustration of the operating state at the time when the coupling member is disengaged from the main mounting side engagement portion in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Figure 55 is a schematic perspective view and a schematic sectional view of the process cartridge in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] Figure 56 is a schematic perspective view and a schematic sectional view of the process cartridge according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] Figure 57 is a schematic perspective view of the cartridge according to a further embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Figure 58 is a sectional side view of a cartridge according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] Figure 59 is a schematic perspective view of the cartridge of the third embodiment, when viewed from the drive side.

[0076] Figure 60 is a schematic perspective view of the cartridge according to the third embodiment of the present invention, when viewed from the non-drive side.

[0077] Figure 61 is a perspective view and a longitudinal sectional view illustrating a main assembly drive structure in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] Figure 62 is a perspective view of a cartridge mounting portion of the main assembly in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention, when viewed from the non-drive side.

[0079] Figure 63 is a perspective view of the cartridge mounting portion of the main assembly in accordance with the third embodiment of the present invention, when viewed from the drive side.

[0080] Figure 64 is a schematic perspective view of a photosensitive member unit in accordance with the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Figure 65 is an exploded view of a photosensitive member unit in accordance with the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] Figure 66 is an illustration of a drive side flange unit in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0083] Figure 67 is an exploded view of the drive side flange unit in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] Figure 68 is a perspective view of the coupling member according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Figure 69 is an illustration of the coupling member according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0086] Figure 70 is an illustration of the drive side flange in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0087] Figure 71 is an illustration of the drive side flange, a slider and a retaining pin in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] Figure 72 is an illustration of a drum bearing in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] Figure 73 is an illustration of the cartridge assembly process in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0090] Figure 74 is an illustration of the operation of the coupling member in accordance with the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0091] Figure 75 is an illustration of an engagement operation between the coupling member and the main assembly drive shaft in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0092] Figure 76 is a detailed illustration of engagement operation between the coupling member and the main assembly drive shaft in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] Figure 77 is an illustration of engagement between the coupling member and the main assembly drive shaft in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0094] Figure 78 is an illustration at the time of drive transmission in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0095] Figure 79 is an illustration of engagement between the coupling member and the main assembly drive shaft in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] Figure 80 illustrates a modified example of the drive side flange unit in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0097] Figure 81 is an illustration of disengagement operation between the coupling member and the main assembly drive shaft in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0098] Figure 82 is a detailed illustration of the disengagement operation between the coupling member and the main assembly drive shaft in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0099] Figure 83 is a detailed illustration of the disengagement operation between the coupling member and the main assembly drive shaft in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[00100] Figure 84 is a detailed illustration of the disengagement operation between the coupling member and the main assembly drive shaft in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[00101] Figure 85 is a perspective view of the main assembly drive shaft and a drum drive gear in the third embodiment of the present invention.

[00102] Figure 86 is a modified example of the coupling member of the third embodiment of the present invention.

[00103] Figure 87 is an exploded illustration of a coupling unit according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[00104] Figure 88 is a schematic perspective view and a schematic sectional view of a photosensitive member unit in accordance with the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[00105] Figure 89 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a drive side flange unit in the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[00106] Figure 90 is an illustration of operations of the coupling member and the coupling unit in the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[00107] Figure 91 is an illustration of operations of the coupling member and the coupling unit in the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[00108] Figure 92 is an illustration of operations of the coupling member and the coupling unit in the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[00109] Figure 93 is an illustration of operations of the coupling member and the coupling unit in the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[00110] Figure 94 is an illustration of an operating state at the time of engagement between the coupling member and the main mounting side engagement portion in the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[00111] Figure 95 is an enlarged illustration of an operating state at the time when the coupling member is engaged with the main mounting side engagement portion in the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[00112] Figure 96 is an illustration of an operating state at the time of engagement between the coupling member and the main mounting side engagement portion in the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[00113] Figure 97 is an illustration of an operating state at the time of disengagement between the coupling member and the main mounting side engagement portion in the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[00114] Figure 98 is an illustration of an operating state at the time of disengagement between the coupling member and the main mounting side engagement portion in the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[00115] Figure 99 is an illustration of an operating state at the time of disengagement between the coupling member and the main mounting side engagement portion in the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF ACHIEVEMENTS

[00116] Referring to the accompanying drawings, a cartridge and an electrophotographic image forming apparatus in accordance with the present invention will be described. As the electrophotographic image forming apparatus, a laser beam printer is taken, and as the cartridge, a process cartridge for the laser beam printer will be taken. In the following description, a transverse direction of the process cartridge is a direction in which the process cartridge is mounted and dismounted from a process cartridge and is a feeding direction of a recording material. A longitudinal direction of the process cartridge is substantially perpendicular to the mounting and dismounting direction of the process cartridge relative to the main mounting of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus, is parallel with the rotational axis of an image-bearing member, and is intersecting with the direction of recording material feed. Reference numerals in the following description are to refer to the accompanying drawings and do not limit the present invention.

Achievement 1 (1) Electrophotographic image forming apparatus:

[00117] Referring first to Figure 1 through Figure 4, an electrophotographic image forming apparatus with which a process cartridge in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention is usable will be described. In the following description, a main assembly of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus to the main assembly A of the apparatus is the portion other than the process cartridge (cartridge B) of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus. Cartridge B is detachably mountable (mountable and detachable) relative to the main assembly A. Figure 1 is a schematic side sectional view of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus. Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of the main assembly A. Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of the cartridge B. Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an operation of assembling the cartridge B to the main assembly A.

[00118] As shown in Figure 1, in the image formation operation in the main assembly A, a laser beam L modulated according to the image information is projected from the optical medium 1 onto the surface of the electrophotographic photosensitive member 10 in the form of a drum (photosensitive drum 10) which is an image-bearing member (rotating member). Therefore, an electrostatic latent image can be formed on the photosensitive drum 10 according to the image information. The electrostatic latent image is extracted and developed by a developing roller 13 which will be described below with the developer t. As a result, a developer image is formed on the photosensitive drum 10.

[00119] In synchronization with the formation of the developer image, a lifting plate 3b provided to the free end portion of the sheet feeder tray 3a accommodating recording materials 2 is raised to feed the recording material 2 through the sheet feeder roller 3c , a 3d separation block and a pair of 3e registration rollers or similar.

[00120] In a transfer position, a transfer roller 4 is provided as a transfer means. The transfer roller 4 is provided with an electrical voltage having the opposite polarity to that of the developer image. Therefore, the developer image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 10 is transferred onto the recording material 2. The recording material 2 is the material on which the image is formed with the developer, and may be recording paper, a label sheet, OHP sheet.

[00121] The recording material 2 having the transferred developer image is fed to the fixing means 5 by a feeding guide 3f. The clamping means 5 includes a drive roller 5a and a clamping roller 5c which contains a heater 5b. The fixing means 5 applies heat and pressure when passing the recording material 2 to fix the developer image transferred on the recording material 2, on the recording material 2. Therefore, the image is formed on the recording material 2.

[00122] Thereafter, the recording material 2 is fed by a pair of discharge rollers 3g to be discharged onto a discharge portion 8c of a main mounting cover 8. The sheet feeder roller 3c, the separation block 3d , the pair of registration rollers 3e, the feeding guide 3f and the pair of discharge rollers 3g and so on constitute the feeding means for the recording material 2.

[00123] Referring to Figure 2 by Figure 4, the description will be made of the assembly and disassembly of cartridge B relative to the main assembly A. In the following description, the side to which the rotational force is transmitted from the main assembly A to the photosensitive drum 10 is called the drive side. The opposite side with respect to the rotational axis direction of the photosensitive drum 10 is called the non-drive side.

[00124] As shown in Figure 2, the main assembly A is provided with a placement portion 7, which is a space for accommodating cartridge B. In the state that cartridge B is placed in the space, a cartridge coupling member 180 B is engaged with (connected with) a main mounting side engagement portion 100 of the main assembly A. Rotational force is transmitted from the main mounting side engagement portion 100 to the photosensitive drum 10 by the coupling member 180 (description details will be provided later).

[00125] As shown in part (a) of Figure 2, the drive side of the main assembly A is provided with the main assembly side engagement portion 100 and a drive side guide member 120. The guide portion The drive side 120 includes a first guide portion 120a and a second guide portion 120b for guiding the cartridge B in assembly and disassembly operations. As shown in part (b) of Figure 2, the non-drive side of the main assembly A is provided with a non-drive side guide member 125. The non-drive side guide portion 125 includes a first guide portion 125a and a second portion of guide 125b for guiding cartridge B in its assembly and disassembly operations. The drive side guide member 120 and the non-drive side guide member 125 are provided opposite each other to drive and non-drive sides of the placement portion 7 in the main assembly A.

[00126] On the other hand, as shown in part (a) of Figure 3, the drive side of the cartridge B is provided with a drum bearing 30 for rotatably supporting a photosensitive drum unit U1. The drum bearing 30 is provided with a drive side supported portion 30b. On the drive side of the cartridge B, a cleaning frame 21 is provided with a drive side rotation prevention portion 21e. As shown in part (b) of Figure 3, on the non-drive side of the cartridge B, the cleaning frame 21 is provided with a non-drive side supported portion 21f and a non-drive side guide portion 21g.

[00127] Referring to Figure 4, the assembly of cartridge B to main assembly A will be described. The main assembly cover 8 capable of opening and closing the main assembly A is opened by rotating in an arrow direction 8u about the hinge portion 8a and a hinge portion 8b. Therefore, the placement portion 7 in the main assembly A is uncovered. The cartridge B is moved in the direction substantially perpendicular to a rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10 (arrow direction X1 in Figure 4) in the cartridge B so as to be fixed in the main assembly A (fixing portion 7). In this assembly process, on the drive side of the cartridge B, the drive side supported portion 30b and the drive side rotation prevention portion 21e are guided by the first guide portion 120a and the second guide portion 120b of the drive side guide 120 respectively. Similarly, on the non-drive side of the cartridge B, the non-drive side supported portion 21f and the non-drive side guide portion 21g are guided by the first guide portion 125a and the second guide portion 125b of the non-drive side guide portion 21g. drive 125, respectively. As a result, the cartridge B is placed in the placing portion 7. After that, the main mounting cover 8 is rotated in a direction of an arrow 8d, so that the assembly of the cartridge B to the main mounting A is completed. When cartridge B is removed from main assembly A, the main assembly cover 8 is opened, and a disassembly operation is performed. These operations are performed by the user, where the user grabs a T-handle of cartridge B while moving cartridge B.

[00128] In this embodiment, the placement of cartridge B in the placement portion 7 is expressed as mounting the cartridge B to the main assembly A. Furthermore, the disassembly of the cartridge B from the placement portion 7 is expressed as dismounting the cartridge B from the assembly main A. Furthermore, the position of the cartridge B placed in the placement portion 7 relative to the main assembly A is called the complete mounted position.

[00129] In the preceding description of the assembly of cartridge B, cartridge B is inserted by the user up to the placement portion 7, but this is not limiting to the present invention. For example, in an alternative structure, the user inserts cartridge B partially, and then drops the cartridge to the placement portion 7, that is, the final assembly operation can be performed using another means. The description will be about "substantially perpendicular".

[00130] For the purpose of smooth assembly and disassembly of cartridge B, a small opening is extended in the longitudinal direction between cartridge B and the main assembly A of the apparatus. Therefore, when cartridge B is mounted to or dismounted from the main assembly A of the apparatus, the entire cartridge B may be tilted slightly within the range of the opening. At L4, the assembly and disassembly directions may not be perpendicular in the exact direction. However, the present invention is effective in such a case, and therefore, "substantially perpendicular" covers such a case.

(2) Brief description of process cartridge:

[00131] Referring to Figure 5 by Figure 8, cartridge B according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 5 is a schematic sectional view of the cartridge B. Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view of a first frame unit 18. Figure 7 is a schematic perspective view of a second frame unit 19. Figure 8 illustrates the combination of the first frame unit 18 and the second frame unit 19.

[00132] As shown in Figure 5, cartridge B includes photosensitive drum 10 having a photosensitive layer. A charging roller 11 as a charging means (process medium) is provided in contact with the surface of the photosensitive drum 10. The charging roller 11 evenly charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 10 and applies the electrical voltage applied from the main assembly A of the device. The charging roller 11 is driven by the photosensitive drum 10. The photosensitive drum 10 thus charged is exposed to the laser beam L provided by the optical means 1 through the exposure opening 12, so that the electrostatic latent image is formed. The electrostatic latent image is revealed by means of development, which will be described below.

[00133] The developer contained in a developer-accommodating container 14 is provided in a developing container 16 through the opening 14a of the developer-accommodating container 14 by a rotating developer feeding member 17. The developing container 16 includes the member developer carrier (developing roller) 13 as the developing medium (process medium). The developing roller 13 functions as a rotating member capable of carrying the developer t. The developing roller 13 contains the magnet roller (fixed magnet) 13c. A developing blade 15 is provided in contact with a peripheral surface of the developing roller 13. The developing blade 15 regulates an amount of the developer t deposited on the peripheral surface of the developing roller 13 and triboelectrically charges the developer t. Therefore, a layer of developer is formed on the surface of the developing roller 13. A break prevention sheet 24 is provided to prevent leakage of the developer from the developing container 16.

[00134] The developing roller 13 is impelled towards the photosensitive drum 10 by a pressing spring 23a and a pressing spring 23b (Figure 8) while maintaining a predetermined gap relative to the photosensitive drum 10 through a spacer roller 13k (Figure 6) provided at the opposite longitudinal end portions of the developing roller 13, respectively. The developing roller 13 provided with an electrical voltage is rotated to carry the developer t into a developing zone for the photosensitive drum 10. The developing roller 13 visualizes the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 10 transferring the developer t as per the image electrostatic latent in a developer image on the photosensitive drum 10. That is, the photosensitive drum 10 functions as a rotating member capable of carrying the developer image (developer).

[00135] After that, the developer image formed on the photosensitive drum 10 is transferred onto the recording material 2 by the transfer roller 4.

[00136] The cleaning frame 21 is provided with a cleaning blade 20 as cleaning medium (process medium) in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 10. The cleaning blade 20 elastically contacts the photosensitive drum 10 at the end free. The cleaning blade 20 functions to scrape off the developer remaining on the photosensitive drum 10 after transferring the developer image onto the recording material 2. The developer scraped off the surface of the photosensitive drum 10 by the cleaning blade 20 is collected in a removed developer accommodation portion 21a. A receiving sheet 22 is provided to prevent leakage of developer t from the removed developer-accommodating portion 21a.

[00137] Cartridge B consists of the first frame unit 18 and the second frame unit 19 which are combined into an integral structure. The first frame unit 18 and the second frame unit 19 will be described.

[00138] As shown in Figure 6, the first frame unit 18 comprises the developer accommodating container 14 and the developing container 16. The developer accommodating container 14 is provided with the developer feeding member 17 (not shown) and so on. The developing container 16 is provided with the developing roller 13, the developing blade 15, the developing roller 13, the spacer rollers 13k to the respective end portions, the break prevention sheet 24 and so on.

[00139] As shown in Figure 7, the second frame unit 19 is provided with the cleaning frame 21, the cleaning blade 20, the loading roller 11 and so on. The photosensitive drum unit U1 as a photosensitive member unit including the photosensitive drum 10 is rotatably supported using the drum bearing 30 and a drum shaft 54.

[00140] As shown in Figure 8, a rotation hole 16a and a rotation hole 16b to the opposite end portions of the first frame unit 18 and a fixing hole 21c and a fixing hole 21d to the opposite end portions of the second frame unit 19 are connected by a unit connection pin 25a and a unit connection pin 25b. Therefore, the first frame unit 18 and the second frame unit 19 are rotatably connected to each other. By pressing spring 23a and pressing spring 23b provided between the first frame unit 18 and the second frame unit 19, the developing roller 13 is impelled towards the photosensitive drum 10 with the predetermined gap maintained between them by the spacer rollers 13k (Figure 6).

(3) Photosensitive member unit structure:

[00141] Referring to Figures 9 and 10, the structure of the photosensitive drum unit U1 will be described. Part (a) of Figure 9 is a schematic perspective view of the photosensitive drum unit U1 as viewed from the drive side, and part (b) of Figure 9 is a schematic perspective view thereof as viewed from the non-drive side. Part (c) of Figure 9 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the photosensitive drum unit U1. Figure 10 is an illustration of a state in which the photosensitive drum unit U1 is being mounted on the second frame unit 19.

[00142] As shown in Figure 9, the photosensitive drum unit U1 as the photosensitive member unit comprises the photosensitive drum 10, a drive side flange unit U2 and a non-drive side flange 50 and so on.

[00143] The photosensitive drum 10 is an electroconductive member made of aluminum or similar covered with the photosensitive layer on the surface. The interior of the photosensitive drum 10 may be hollow or solid.

[00144] The drive side flange unit U2 is provided to the drive side end portion with respect to the longitudinal direction of the photosensitive drum 10 (rotational axis direction along the rotational axis L1). More particularly, as shown in part (c) of Figure 9, in the drive side flange unit U2, an engagement support portion 150b of the drive side flange (rotational force receiving member (rotational force transmitting member) )) 150 engages with an opening 10a2 provided to the end portion of the photosensitive drum 10, and is fixed to the photosensitive drum 10 by gluing and/or clamping or similar. When the drive side flange 150 rotates, the photosensitive drum 10 rotates integrally with it. The drive side flange 150 is fixed to the photosensitive drum 10 such that a rotational axis L151 of the drive side flange 150 and a rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10 are substantially coaxial (on the same line) with each other.

[00145] In the following description, the assembly and disassembly direction (assembly direction and disassembly direction) of the cartridge B to the main assembly A of the apparatus is substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10 and to the rotational axis L151 of the drive side 150 and also perpendicular to the rotational axis L101 of the main mounting side engagement portion which will be described next. Here, "substantially coaxial (substantially on the same axis)" means completely coaxial case (on the same line) and a case deviating slightly from the completely coaxial case due to variation or similar of the dimensions of the parts. The same applies to the other cases in the following descriptions. The non-drive side flange 50 is provided to the end portion 10a1 on the non-drive side of the photosensitive drum 10, substantially coaxial with the photosensitive drum 10. The non-drive side flange 50 is made of resin material, and as shown in part (c) of Figure 9, the photosensitive drum 10 is attached to the non-drive side end portion 10a1 of the photosensitive drum 10 by gluing and/or clamping or similar. The non-drive side flange 50 is provided with an electroconductive ground plate 51 for electrical grounding of the photosensitive drum 10. The ground plate 51 includes a projection 51a and a projection 51b larger than the inner surface 10b of the photosensitive drum 10. By projection 51a and projection 51b contacting the inner surface 10b of the photosensitive drum 10, the grounding plate 51 is electrically connected with the projection 51b.

[00146] The photosensitive drum unit U1 is rotatably supported on the second frame unit 19. As shown in Figure 10, on the drive side of the photosensitive drum unit U1, a supported portion 150d of the drive side flange 150 is rotatably supported by a supporting portion 30a of the drum bearing 30. The drum bearing 30 is fixed to the cleaning frame 21 by a screw 26. On the other hand, on the non-drive side of the photosensitive drum unit U1, the shaft receiving portion 50a of the non-drive side flange 50 (part (b) of Figure 9) is rotatably supported by the electroconductive drum shaft 54. Because the drum shaft 54 contacts the contact portion (not shown) of the ground plate 51, the drum shaft 54 is electrically connected to the photosensitive drum 10 by the grounding plate 51. When cartridge B is mounted to the main assembly A of the apparatus, the drum shaft 54 contacts a main mounting contact portion (not shown) provided on the main assembly A of the apparatus, whereby the photosensitive drum 10 is electrically connected with the main assembly A of the apparatus. The drum shaft 54 is press-fitted into a support portion 21b provided on the non-drive side of the cleaning frame 21.

(4) Drive side flange unit:

[00147] Referring to Figure 11 by Figure 15, the structure of the drive side flange unit U2 will be described. Part (a) of Figure 11 is a schematic perspective view of the state in which the drive side flange unit U2 is mounted to the photosensitive drum 10, as seen from the drive side. In part (a) of Figure 11, the photosensitive drum 10 and the parts therein are described by dashed lines. Part (b) of Figure 11 is a schematic sectional view taken along a line S1 in part (a) of Figure 11, and part (c) of Figure 11 is a schematic sectional view taken along a line S2 in part (a) of Figure 11. In part (c) of Figure 11, a sliding groove 150s1 of the drive side flange 150 is depicted by dashed lines for the convenience of illustration. Figure 12 is an exploded schematic perspective view of the drive side flange unit U2. Figure 13 is a schematic perspective view of the coupling member 180. Figure 14 is an illustration of the coupling member 180. Part (a) of Figure 15 and part (b) of Figure 15 are schematic perspective views of the side flange. drive 150. Part (c) of Figure 15 is a schematic sectional view taken along a line S3 in part (a) of Figure 15, in which a projection 180m1 of the coupling member 180, a retaining pin 191 and a pin 192 are shown for illustration. Part (d) of Figure 15 is a schematic perspective view of the coupling member 180 and the drive side flange 150. Figure 16 illustrates the drive side flange 150, a slider 160, the retaining pin 191 and the 192, and part (b) of Figure 16 is a sectional view taken along a line SL153 in part (a) of Figure 16. In Figure 16, the photosensitive drum 10 is described by streamlines with double dots .

[00148] As shown in Figures 11 and 12, the drive side flange unit U2 comprises the drive side flange 150, the coupling member 180, a pressing member 170, the slider 160, the retaining pin 191 and the retaining pin 192, as the rotational force transmitting member.

[00149] Here, in Figure 11, "L151" is the rotational axis when the drive side flange 150 is rotated, and in the following description, the rotational axis L151 is simply called axis L151. Similarly, "L181" is the rotational axis when the coupling member 180 is rotated, and in the following description, the rotational axis L181 is simply called axis L181.

[00150] The coupling member 180 is provided within the drive side flange 150 together with the pressing member 170 and the slider 160. By the structure that will be described next, the slider 160 does not move in the direction of the axis L151 relative to the drive side flange 150, to retaining pin 191 and retaining pin 192.

[00151] In this embodiment, the pressing member 170 includes a helical compression spring. As shown in part (b) of Figure 11 and part (c) of Figure 11, an end portion 170a of the pressing member 170 contacts a spring contact portion 180d1 of the coupling member 180, and the other end portion 170b contacts a spring contact portion 160b of the slider 160. The pressing member 170 is compressed between the coupling member 180 and the slider 160, and the pressing force F170 thereof urges the coupling member 180 to the drive side (arrow direction of (outside of cartridge B)). The pressing member may be an elastic member (capable of producing an elastic force) such as a spring, a flat spring, a torsion spring, rubber, sponge or the like. However, as will be described below, the coupling member 180 is movable in the direction parallel with the axis L151 of the drive side flange 150, and therefore, one type of pressing member 170 is required to have a certain degree of travel. Therefore, a coil spring or similar capable of having a stroke is preferable.

[00152] Referring to Figures 13 and 14, the configuration of the coupling member 180 will be described.

[00153] As shown in Figure 13, the coupling member 180 mainly comprises a projection 180m1, a projection 180m2, a first projected portion 180a, a second projected portion 180b, a round body 180c, a coupling portion 180h and a 180d spring mount.

[00154] An axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the L181 axis is an L182 axis, and an axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the L181 axis and the L182 axis is an L183 axis.

[00155] As shown in Figures 13 and 14, the 180m1 projection and the 180m2 projection are projected from the round body 180c along the axis direction L182, and the 180m1 projection and the 180m2 projection are arranged at diametrically opposite positions with respect to the axis L181. The 180m1 projection and the 180m2 projection have the same settings, and therefore, the description will only be made about the 180m1 projection.

[00156] As shown in part (a) of Figure 14, the 180m1 projection has a symmetrical configuration with respect to the L181 axis when viewed in the direction of the L182 axis, more particularly it has a pentagonal configuration. The portion of the projection 180m1 having two surfaces inclined by an angle 03 relative to the L181 axis when viewed in the direction of the L182 axis is called a portion to be guided 180j1 and a portion to be guided 180j2 as an inclined portion or contact portion. The portion to be guided 180j1 and the portion to be guided 180j2 are inclined relative to the axis L181. The portion connecting the portion to be guided 180j1 and the portion to be guided 180j2 are called the round configuration portion (R) 180t1. Furthermore, the projection surfaces 180m1 perpendicular to the L183 axis are called a projection end portion 180n1 and a projection end portion 180n2. The surface of the projection 180m1 perpendicular to the L182 axis is called a rotational force transmitting portion 180g1.

[00157] The projection 180m2 also has a portion to be guided 180j3, a portion to be guided 180j4, an R configuration portion 180t2, a projection end portion 180n3, a projection end portion 180n4 and a force transmitting portion rotational 180g2, similarly.

[00158] As shown in part (b) of Figure 14, the first projected portion 180a and the second projected portion 180b have portions that are projected from the drive side end portion 180c1 of the cylindrical round body 180c to the drive side and which have spherical surfaces, and they are symmetrical in point with respect to the L181 axis. The first projecting portion 180a and the second projecting portion 180b are provided within the round body 180c with respect to the radius direction of rotation of the coupling member 180.

[00159] As shown in part (a) of Figure 13, the first projected portion 180a and the second projected portion 180b each comprise a main mounting contact portion 180a1, a main mounting contact portion 180b1, a second main mounting contact 180a2, a second main mounting contact portion 180b2, a rotational force receiving portion 180a3, a rotational force receiving portion 180b3, a third main mounting contact portion 180a5, a third main mounting contact portion 180b5, a main side surface 180a4 and a main side surface 180b4. Drive-side free end portions of the rotational force receiving portion 180a3 and the rotational force receiving portion 180b3 are a free end corner portion 180a7 and a free end corner portion 180b7, respectively. The main mounting contact portion 180a1 and the main mounting contact portion 180b1 are provided outside the first projected portion 180a and the second projected portion 180b, respectively. The first projected portion 180a and the second projected portion 180b contact the main mounting side engagement portion 100 when the coupling member 180 engages with the main mounting side engagement portion 100 and when the coupling member 180 is disengaged from the main mounting side hitch portion, as will be described in detail below.

[00160] The rotational force receiving portion 180a3 and the rotational force receiving portion 180b3 have flat surfaces parallel to the axis L181 of the coupling member 180 (part (a) of Figure 14). In this embodiment, the rotational force receiving portion 180a3 and the rotational force receiving portion 180b3 have flat surfaces perpendicular to the L183 axis. A distance between the axis L181 and the rotational force receiving portion 180a3 or the rotational force receiving portion 180b3 is offset V1. As shown in part (b) of Figure 14, the second main mounting contact portion 180a2 and the second main mounting contact portion 180b2 are inclined surfaces, inclined relative to the axis L181 of the coupling member 180 by an angle 02, when views in the direction of axis L183. The third main mounting contact portion 180a5 and the third main mounting contact portion 180b5 are inclined surfaces, inclined relative to the axis L181 of the coupling member 180 by an angle 01, when viewed in the direction of the axis L183.

[00161] The main mounting contact portion 180a1 and the main mounting contact portion 180b1 approach the axis L181 when the distance from the drive side of the axis L181 decreases. In this embodiment, the main mounting contact portion 180a1 and the main mounting contact portion 180b1 form part of spherical surfaces having the same radius substantially as that of the cylindrical shape of the round body 180c, and therefore, the outer diameters thereof in a plane perpendicular to the L181 axis decrease towards the drive side of the L181 axis.

[00162] The engagement portion 180h has a cylindrical shape having a center axis that is common with the axis L181, and is supported by a cylindrical portion 160a of the slider 160 as a retaining member (movable member) with almost no opening ( part (b) of Figure 11, part (c) of Figure 11), as will be described in detail below. The cylindrical portion 160a functions as a retaining portion for retaining the coupling member 180. As shown in Figure 13, the spring mounting portion 180d is provided on a non-drive side end portion of the engagement portion 180h. The spring mounting portion 180d is provided with a spring contact portion 180d1 contacting an end portion 170a of the pressing member 170, and the spring contact portion 180d1 is substantially perpendicular to the axis L181 of the coupling member 180.

[00163] Referring to Figure 15, the configuration of the drive side flange 150 will be described.

[00164] As shown in Figure 15, the drive side flange 150 is provided with the engagement support portion 150b engaging with the inner surface 10b of the photosensitive drum 10, a gear portion 150c, a support portion 150d rotatably supported by drum bearing 30 and so on.

[00165] An axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the L151 axis is an L152 axis, and an axis extending in a direction perpendicular to the L151 axis and the L152 axis is an L153 axis.

[00166] The interior of the drive side flange 150 is hollow, and is called hollow portion 150f. The hollow portion 150f includes a flat surface inner wall portion 150h1, a flat surface inner wall portion 150h2, a cylindrical inner wall portion 150r1, a cylindrical inner wall portion 150r2, a recess 150m1 and a recess 150m2.

[00167] The flat surface inner wall portion 150h1 and the flat surface inner wall portion 150h2 have surfaces perpendicular to the L152 axis and are diametrically opposed (180 degrees) to each other to the L151 axis. The cylindrical inner wall portion 150r1 and the cylindrical inner wall portion 150r2 have cylindrical configurations having a central axis that is common with the L151 axis, and one arranged at positions diametrically opposite to each other with respect to the L151 axis. The recess 150m1 and the recess 150m2 are formed with the flat surface inner wall portion 150h1 and the flat surface inner wall portion 150h2, respectively, and are further away from the L151 axis along the L152 axis. The 150m1 recess and the 150m2 recess have the same configuration and are provided with diametrically opposite positions with respect to axis L151, and therefore, the following description will be made with respect to the 150m1 recess only.

[00168] The 150m1 recess is symmetrical with respect to the L151 axis when viewed in the direction of the L152 axis. As shown in part (c) of Figure 15, the portion having surfaces inclined by angle 03 relative to axis L151 when viewed in the direction of axis L152 is a guide portion 150j1 and a guide portion 150j2, similarly to the portion to be guided 180j1 - the portion to be guided 180j4. The guide portion 150j1 and the guide portion 150j2 are inclined relative to the axis L151. In this embodiment, the inclined surface of the guide portion 150j1 corresponds to the portion to be guided 180j1, and the inclined surface of the guide portion 150j2 corresponds to the portion to be guided 180j2. The portion connecting the guide portion 150j1 and the guide portion 150j2 to each other is a round configuration portion 150t1. Recess surfaces 150m1 perpendicular to axis L153 are a recess end portion 150n1 and a recess end portion 150n2. A rotational force receiving portion 150g1 having a flat surface perpendicular to the axis L152 is provided, with a step relative to the flat surface inner wall portion 150h1. Furthermore, the rotational force receiving portion 150g1 is provided with the sliding groove 150s1. As will be described next, the sliding groove 150s1 includes a through hole supporting the retaining pin 191 and the retaining pin 192, and has a rectangular shape with the long side thereof being along axis L153, when viewed in the direction of axis L152.

[00169] The parts constituting the recess 150m2 include a rotational force receiving portion 150g2, a guide portion 150j3, a guide portion 150j4, R, a guide portion 150j4, a setting portion R 150t2, a sliding groove 150s4 , a recess end portion 150n3 and a recess end portion 150n4.

[00170] A drive side end portion of the hollow portion 150f is an opening 150e.

[00171] As shown in Figures 11, 12 and part (d) of Figure 15, the coupling member 180 is provided in the hollow portion 150f of the drive side flange 150 such that the axis L182 is parallel to the axis L152. The rotational force transmitting portion 180g1 and the rotational force transmitting portion 180g2, and the rotational force receiving portion 150g1 and the rotational force receiving portion 150g2 are engaged with each other with almost no opening in the direction of axis L182, respectively. Therefore, the movement of the coupling member 180 relative to the drive side flange 150 in the direction of the axis L182 is limited (part (b) of Figure 11, part (d) of Figure 15). As shown in part (c) of Figure 11, when the coupling member 180 is placed in the hollow portion 150f such that the axis L181 is substantially coaxial with the axis L151, openings D are provided between the round body 180c and the wall portion. cylindrical inner wall portion 150r1 and the cylindrical inner wall portion 150r2, respectively. Furthermore, as shown in part (c) of Figure 15, openings E1 are provided between the projection end portion 180n1 and the recess end portion 150n1 and between the projection end portion 180n2 and the recess end portion. 150n1, respectively, in the direction of the L153 axis. Therefore, the coupling member 180 is movable in the direction of the axis L183 relative to the drive side flange 150. Here, the projection 180m1 and the recess 150m1 are formed as soon as the opening E1 is larger than the opening D. In this embodiment , the coupling member 180 is provided with the projection 180m1, and the flange 150 is provided with the recess 150m1, but the recess-projection relationship can be reversed. The inclined portion described above may be provided with only one or both of the coupling member 180 and the flange 150. That is, the inclined portion may be provided with at least one of the coupling member 180 and the flange 150.

[00172] Referring to Figures 11 and 12, the configurations of the slider 160, the retention pin 191 and the retention pin 192 will be described.

[00173] As shown in Figures 11 and 12, the slider 160 is provided with the cylindrical portion 160a, a contact portion 160b contacted by the other end portion 170b of the pressing member 170, a through hole 160c1 - a through hole 160c4. The central axis of the cylindrical portion 160a is an axis L161.

[00174] The cylindrical portion 160a is engaged with the engagement portion 180h of the coupling member 180 with almost no opening to support the engagement portion 180h. Therefore, the coupling member 180 is movable in the direction of the L181 axis while maintaining the significant coaxial character between the L181 axis and the L161 axis.

[00175] On the other hand, as shown in part (b) of Figure 11, part (c) of Figure 12 and part (c) of Figure 15, the cylindrical retaining pin 191 and the retaining pin 192 are inserted into the hole through hole 160c1 - in the through hole 160c4 of the slider 160, such that the central axes are parallel with the axis L152. The retaining pin 191 and the retaining pin 192 are supported by the sliding groove 150s1 and the sliding groove 150s4 of the drive side flange 150, so that the slider 160 and the drive side flange 150 are connected to each other .

[00176] As shown in part (c) of Figure 11 and part (a) of Figure 16, the retaining pin 191 and the retaining pin 192 are juxtaposed along axis L153. The diameters of the retaining pin 191 and the retaining pin 192 are slightly smaller than the width of the sliding groove 150s1 and the sliding groove 150s4 measured in the direction of axis L151. Therefore, the cursor 160 maintains parallelism between the L161 axis and the L151 axis. Furthermore, the slider 160 is prevented from movement relative to the drive side flange 150 in the direction of the axis L151. In other words, the cursor 160 is movable in the direction substantially perpendicular to the L151 axis.

[00177] As shown in part (b) of Figure 11 and part (b) of Figure 16, by the clamping engagement between the engagement support portion 150b of the drive side flange 150 (part (a) of Figure 16) and the opening 10a2 of the photosensitive drum 10, the retaining pin 191 and the retaining pin 192 are prevented from disengaging in the direction of the axis L152. Furthermore, a length G1 of the retaining pin 191 and the retaining pin 192 is selected to be sufficiently greater than a distance G2 between the rotational force transmitting portion 150g1 and the rotational force transmitting portion 150g2. By doing so, the retaining pin 191 and the retaining pin 192 are prevented from disengaging from the sliding groove 150s1 and the sliding groove 150s4.

[00178] Furthermore, between the retaining pin 191 and an end portion 150s2 of the sliding groove 150s1 and between the retaining pin 192 and the other end portion 150s3 of the sliding groove 150s1, an opening E2 greater than opening D is provided (part (c) of Figure 11 and part (a) of Figure 16). Similar openings E2 are provided between the retaining pin 191 and an end portion 150s5 of the sliding groove 150s4 and between the retaining pin 192 and the other end portion 150s6 of the sliding groove 150s4 (part (a) of Figure 16). . Additionally, lubricant (not shown) is applied to through hole 160c1 - through hole 160c4, sliding groove 150s1 and sliding groove 150s4. Therefore, the slider 160 is smoothly movable relative to the drive side flange 150 in the direction of axis L153.

[00179] As shown in part (c) of Figure 15, the guide portion 150j1 and the guide portion 150j2 as the inclined portions or the contact portions are contactable to the portion to be guided 180j1 and the portion to be guided 180j2 as the inclined portions or the contact portions (here, it is unnecessary that both the guiding portion 150j1 (150j2) and the portion to be guided 180j1 (180j2) are inclined, but it will suffice if one of them is inclined). By contact between them, the coupling member 180 is prevented from disengaging from the opening 150 and the drive side flange 150. By the pressing member 170, the coupling member 180 is driven towards the drive side such that the portion to be guided 180j1 and the portion to be guided 180j2 contacts the guiding portion 150j1 and the guiding portion 150j2. The same applies to the relationship between the guide portion 150j3, the guide portion 150j4 and the portion to be guided 180j3, the portion to be guided 180j4.

[00180] As previously described, the 180m1 projection and the 180m2 projection are symmetrical with respect to the L181 axis, when viewed in the direction of the L182 axis. Furthermore, recess 150m1 and recess 150m2 are symmetrical with respect to axis L151 when viewed in the direction of axis L152. Therefore, the coupling member 180 is driven to the driving side by the pressing member 170, so that the portion to be guided 180j1 - portion to be guided 180j4a contact the guide portion 150j1 and the guide portion 150j4, and therefore, the L181 axis and the L151 axis are substantially coaxial with each other.

[00181] With the structures described above, the coupling member 180 maintains the state relative to the drive side flange 150 by the slider 160 such that the axis L181 and the axis L151 are parallel to each other. The coupling member 180 is movable relative to the drive side flange 150 in the directions of axis L181 and axis L183. The coupling member 180 is prevented from movement relative to the drive side flange 150 in the direction of the axis L182. The coupling member 180 is urged toward the drive side (arrow direction of yes.

[00182] In this embodiment, the drive side flange 150, the coupling member 180 and the slider 160 are made of resin material such as polyacetal, polycarbonate or the like. The retaining pin 190 is made of metal such as carbon steel, stainless steel or the like. However, depending on the load torque to rotate the photosensitive drum 10, the materials of the parts may be made of metal or resin material.

[00183] In this embodiment, the gear portion 150c functions to transmit the rotational force received by the coupling member 180 from the main mounting side engagement portion 100 to the developing roller 13, and is a helical gear or toothed gear integrally molded with the drive side flange 150. The developing roller 13 may be rotated not by the drive side flange 150. In such a case, the gear portion 150c may be omitted.

[00184] Referring to Figures 12 and part (d) of Figure 15, an assembly process of the drive side flange unit U2 will be described. As shown in part (d) of Figure 15, the coupling member 180 is inserted into the space portion 150f of the drive side flange 150. At this time, as previously described, the stages of the coupling member 180 and the side flange drive shaft 150 are adjusted such that the axis L182 and the axis L152 are parallel to each other. Next, as shown in Figure 12, the pressing member 170 is assembled. The pressing member 170 is limited in position in the radial direction to an axis portion 180d2 of the coupling member 180 and an axis portion 160d of the slider 160. The pressing member 170 may be mounted in advance to either or both of the axis portion. 180d2 and the axis portion 160d. At this time, the pressing member 170 is press-fit relative to the shaft portion 180d2 (or shaft portion 160d) such that the pressing member 170 does not dislodge, whereby the assembly operability is improved. Thereafter, the slider 160 is inserted into the space portion 150f so that the engagement portion 180h is fitted into the cylindrical portion 160a. As shown in part (c) of Figure 12 and part (d) of Figure 12, the retaining pin 191 and retaining pin 192 of the sliding groove 150s1 are inserted through the through hole 160c1 - through hole 160c4 into the sliding groove 150s4 .

(6) Coupling member operation:

[00185] Referring to Figure 17, coupling member 180 will be described. Part (a1) of Figure 17 is an illustration of the state in which the axis L181 of the coupling member 180 and the axis L151 of the drive side flange 150 are aligned with each other, and the guide portion 150j1 - the guide portion 150j4 contact the portion to be guided 180j1 and the portion to be guided 180j4, respectively. Part (a2) of Figure 17 is an illustration of the state in which the coupling member 180 has moved relative to the drive side flange 150 in the direction indicated by an arrow X51, that is, the direction parallel with the axis L183. Part (a3) of Figure 17 is an illustration of the state in which the coupling member 180 has moved along axis L151 to the non-drive side (arrow direction guide 150j4 and the portion to be guided 180j1 and the portion to be guided 180j4 contact each other, respectively. Part (b1) of Figure 17 - part (b3) of Figure 17 are schematic sectional views taken along lines SL183 parallel with axis L183 in part (a1) of Figure 17 and part (a3) of Figure 17. In part ( b1) of Figure 17 - part (b3) of Figure 17, the coupling member 180 is depicted in the unsectioned state for better illustration, and the guide portion 150j3 and the guide portion 150j4 of the drive side flange 150 and the sliding groove 150s4 are described by dashed lines.

[00186] First, as shown in part (b1) of Figure 17, as for the coupling member 180, the guide portion 150j3 and the guide portion 150j4 contact the portion to be guided 180j3 and the portion to be guided 180j4, by the pressing force F170 of the pressing member 170, such that the axis L181 and the axis L151 are substantially coaxial with each other. At this time, the first projected portion 180a and the second projected portion 180b of the coupling member 180 are projected to the drive side through the opening 150e of the drive side flange 150. The pressing member 170 is a spring like elastic member.

[00187] As shown in part (a2) of Figure 17, the coupling member 180 is moved relative to the drive side flange 150 in the direction of arrow X51 parallel with the axis L183 by a distance p3. Then, as shown in part (b2) of Figure 17, the coupling member 180 moves along the guide portion 150j4 (arrow X61) against the pressing force F170 of the pressing member 170 while maintaining contact between the portion to be guided 180j4 and the guide portion 150j4 of the drive side flange 150. At this time, the coupling member 180 is such that parallelism is maintained between the axis L181 and the axis L151. Therefore, the coupling member 180 is movable in the direction of arrow L183 becomes equal to opening D. On the other hand, the cursor 160 is movable only in the direction of the axis L183 by the function of the retaining pin 191 and the retaining pin 192. Therefore, the cursor 160 moves in the direction of the arrow X51 integrally with the retaining pin 191 and the retaining pin 192 in interrelation with the movement of the coupling member 180 in the direction of arrow X61.

[00188] When the coupling member 180 is moved in the direction opposite to that of the arrow X51, the coupling member 180 moves along the guide portion 150j3, similarly.

[00189] On the other hand, as shown in part (b3) of Figure 17, when the coupling member 180 is moved in the direction of arrow X8, the coupling member 180 moves in the direction of arrow X8 against the pressing force F170 of the pressing member 170 in the state that the coupling portion 180h is supported by the cylindrical portion 160a of the slider 160. At this time, the openings provided between the portion to be guided 180j3, the portion to be guided 180j4 of the coupling member 180 and the portion of guide 150j3, the guide portion 150j4 of the drive side flange 150, respectively. The coupling member 180 can move to the state that it is completely accommodated in the inner space portion 150f of the drive side flange 150 through the opening 150e of the drive side flange 150.

[00190] As described in the foregoing, the coupling member 180 is movable relative to the drive side flange 150 in the directions of axis L181 and axis L183. Furthermore, by the contact between the guide portion 150j1 - and the portion to be guided 180j1 and the contact between the guide portion 150j4 and the portion to be guided 180j4, the coupling member 180 is movable relative to the drive side flange. 150 in the direction of the L181 axis in interrelation with the movement in the direction of the L183 axis. (7) Main assembly side engagement portion and main assembly drive structure:

[00191] Referring to Figures 18 and 19, structures in the main assembly A of the apparatus for rotating the photosensitive drum 10 will be described. Figure 18 is an illustration of the configuration of the main mounting side engagement portion 100.

[00192] In Figure 17, L101 is a rotational axis when the main mounting side engagement portion 100 rotates, and the rotational axis L101 is called axis L101 in the following description. Furthermore, the direction perpendicular to the L101 axis is called the L102 axis, and the direction perpendicular to both the L101 axis and the L102 axis is called the L103 axis.

[00193] Part (a) of Figure 18 and part (b) of Figure 18 are schematic perspective views of the main assembly side engagement portion 100 of the main assembly A of the apparatus. Part (c) of Figure 18 is a schematic sectional view taken along a line S6 of part (b) of Figure 18 (plane perpendicular to the L102 axis and including the L101 axis). Figure 19 is an illustration of a method of support for the main assembly side engagement portion 100. Part (a) of Figure 19 is a side view of the main drive side assembly A of the apparatus, and part (b) of Figure 19 is a side view of the main drive side assembly A of the apparatus, and part (b) of Figure 19 is a schematic sectional view illustrating a support structure of the main mounting side engagement portion 100, taken along a line S7 of part (a) of Figure 19.

[00194] As shown in part (a) of Figure 18, the main mounting side engagement portion 100 is provided with a cylindrical drive shaft 100j and a drive gear portion 100c. Within the drive shaft 100j, there is provided a cylindrical inner wall 100b, a rotational force applicator portion 100a1 and a rotational force applicator portion 100a2. A space in the drive shaft 100j defined by the inner wall 100b, the rotational force-applying portion 100a1, the rotational force-applying portion 100a2 is called the space portion 100f. As shown in part (b) of Figure 18 and part (c) of Figure 18, the coupling member 180 enters the space portion 100f and receives the rotational force, in the rotational force transmission operation. A cartridge side end portion B of the space portion 100f with respect to axis L101 is called an opening end portion 100g.

[00195] The rotational force applicator portion 100a1 and the rotational force applicator portion 100a2 have the configurations of a point symmetry with respect to the axis L101 of the main mounting side engagement portion 100 and are provided with a cylindrical surface 100e1 and a cylindrical surface 100e2 extending along axis L102, respectively. The portions of the rotational force-applying portion 100a1 and the rotational force-applying portion 100a2 most projecting in the direction of axis L103 are a most projected portion 100m1 and a most projected portion 100m2, respectively. The rotational force applying portion 100a1 and the rotational force applying portion 100a2 contact the rotational force receiving portion 180a3 and the rotational force receiving portion 180b3 of the coupling member 180 of the most projecting portion 100m1 and the most projecting portion 100m2 to transmit the rotational force to the coupling member 180. The distance between the axis L101 and the most projected portion 100m1 and between the axis L101 and the most projected portion 100m2 measured along the axis L103 is called offset V2. As shown in part (a) of Figure 18, the rotational force applicator portion 100a1 and the rotational force applicator portion 100a2 have a flat surface wall portion 100k1 and the flat surface wall portion 100k2 that are perpendicular to the axis L103 . Edge portions of the flat surface wall portion 100k1 and the flat surface wall portion 100k2 adjacent to the opening end portion 100g are a retraction force applicator portion 100n1 and a retraction force applicator portion 100n2, respectively.

[00196] The rotational force applicator portion 100a1 and the rotational force applicator portion 100a2 are connected to each other by the inner wall 100b, so that the resistance thereof is increased. Thus, the main mounting side engagement portion 100 can smoothly transmit rotational force to the coupling member 180.

[00197] A drive gear portion 100c having a center aligned with the axis L101 is provided on the opposite side of the cartridge B with respect to the direction of the axis L101 of the main mounting side engagement portion 100. The drive gear portion 100c is integral or non-rotationally attached with the main mounting side engagement portion 100, and when the drive gear portion 100c rotates about the shaft L101, the main mounting side engagement portion 100 also rotates about the shaft L101 .

[00198] As shown in part (a) of Figure 19 and part (b) of Figure 19, an inner circumference 103a of the bearing member 103 supports an outer configuration portion 100j1 of the drive shaft 100j of the side engagement portion. main assembly 100. An outer configuration portion 104a of the bearing member 104 supports an inner wall portion 100b of the main mounting side engagement portion 100. The bearing member 103 and the bearing member 104 are attached to a side plate. 108 and a side plate 109 constituting the housing of the main assembly A of the apparatus such that the axes thereof are coaxial with the axis L101, respectively. Therefore, the main mounting side engagement portion 100 is correctly placed at a predetermined position on the main mounting A of the apparatus with respect to the diametrical direction. (8) Coupling member engagement operation:

[00199] Referring to Figure 20 to Figure 23, the operation of engaging the coupling member 180 will be described. Figure 20 is a perspective view of main parts of the cartridge B on the drive side, in the state of mounting the cartridge B to the main assembly A of the apparatus. Figures 21 and 23 are schematic sectional views when the coupling member 180 is brought into engagement with the main mounting side engagement portion 100. Part (a) of Figure 21 and part (a) of Figure 23 are a view sectional view S8, and an illustration of the sectional direction of the sectional view S12. Parts (b1) to (b4) of Figure 21 show section S8 of part (a) of Figure 21, and are schematic sectional views illustrating engagement of the motion coupling member 180 with the main mounting side engagement portion 100 Part (a) of Figure 22 and part (b) of Figure 22 are enlarged views of the roundness of the drive side flange unit U2 and the contact portion 108a as a fixed member shown in part (b1) of Figure 21 and part (b2) of Figure 21. In part (b2) of Figure 21, a first projected portion 180b in an initial state of the assembly that will be described next is shown by dashed lines. Part (b1) of Figure 23 and part (b2) of Figure 23 show sections taken along lines S12 of part (a) of Figure 23 and illustrate a process for assembling cartridge B. In the following description, "engagement" means the state in which the shaft L151 and the shaft L101 are substantially coaxial with each other, and drive transmission is possible from the main mounting side engagement portion 100 to the coupling member 180. The description will be made about the process of the receiving portion of rotational force 180b3 contacting the rotational force applying portion 100a2 until engagement between the coupling member 180 and the main mounting side engagement portion 100 is completed, referring to the Figures.

[00200] As shown in part (a) of Figure 21, the description will be made about the case that the axis L183 of the coupling member 180 and the mounting direction of the cartridge B (arrow X1) are parallel to each other. As shown in Figure 20, the cartridge B moves in the direction (arrow X1) substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10 and substantially perpendicular to the axis L151 of the drive side flange 150 to be mounted to the main assembly A of the apparatus . As shown in part (b1) of Figure 21 and part (a) of Figure 22, and at the time when the cartridge B begins to be mounted to the main assembly A of the apparatus, the coupling member 180 is projected more toward the drive side. beyond the opening 150e of the drive side flange 150 by the pressing force F170 of the pressing member 170. This state is the initial state of the assembly. At this time, the coupling member 180 is in the first position (designed position). At this time, the rotational axis L181 of the coupling member 180 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More particularly, the rotational axis L181 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially aligned with each other. The rotational axis L181 of the coupling member 180 is substantially parallel to the axis L151 of the drive side flange 150. More particularly, the rotational axis L181 and the rotational axis L151 are substantially aligned with each other.

[00201] When the cartridge B is moved in the direction of arrow X1 from the initial state of the assembly, the main assembly contact portion 180b1 of the coupling member 180 contacts the contact portion 108a of the side plate 108 of the main assembly A of the apparatus. As shown in part (b1) of Figure 21 and part (a) of Figure 22, the main mounting contact portion 180b1 receives the force F1 (retraction force) from the contact portion 108a as the fixed member. The force F1 is directed substantially towards the center of the substantially spherical surface constituting the main mounting contact portion 180b1, and is therefore inclined by an angle 07 which is less than a complementary angle θ31 of the angle 03 relative to the axis L183. Therefore, when the coupling member 180 receives the force F1, it moves in the direction of the arrow guide 150j1 of drive side flange 150.

[00202] As shown in part (b2) of Figure 21 and part (b) of Figure 22, cartridge B is further moved in the direction of arrow X1. Then, the round body 180c of the coupling is brought into contact with the cylindrical inner wall portion 150r1 of the drive side flange 150, so that the movement of the coupling member 180 relative to the drive side flange 150 in the direction of arrow X61 be limited. At this time, a quantity of the movement of the coupling member 180 from the initial state of the assembly in the direction of axis L181 is the movement distance N (part (b) of Figure 22). The movement distance N is determined by the opening D (part (c) of Figure 11) and the angle 03 (Figure 15) of the guide portion 150j1 - guide portion 150j4 relative to the axis L181.

[00203] In the state shown in part (b) of Figure 22, the coupling member 180 has moved by the movement distance N in the direction of arrow X8 from the initial state of the assembly. Because the force F1 is directed towards the center of the substantially spherical surface constituting the main assembly contact portion 180b1, the angle 07 between the direction of the force F1 and the axis L183 is greater than that in the initial state of the assembly. With this, a force of component F1a of the force F1 in the direction of the arrow X8 increases when compared to that of the initial state of the assembly. By the force of component F1a, the coupling member 180 further moves in the direction of the arrow X8 against the pressing force F170 of the pressing member 170, so that the coupling member 180 can pass through the contact portion 108a of the side plate 108.

[00204] Thereafter, as shown in part (b3) of Figure 21, the cartridge B moves in the direction of arrow X1 while keeping the coupling member 180 in the space portion 150f of the drive side flange 150. The position of the coupling member 180 shown in part (b3) of Figure 21 is a second position (retracted position). At this time, the rotational axis L181 of the coupling member 180 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More specifically, there is an opening between the rotational axis L181 and the rotational axis L1 (the rotational axis L181 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially out of alignment). The rotational axis L181 of the coupling member 180 is substantially parallel to the axis L151 of the drive side flange 150. More specifically, at this time there is an opening between the rotational axis L181 and the rotational axis L151 (the rotational axis L181 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially out of alignment). In the second position (retracted position), the coupling member 180 is displaced (moved/retracted) towards the photosensitive drum 10 (the other side of end portion of the photosensitive drum 10 in the longitudinal direction), as compared to that in the first position ( projected position).

[00205] As shown in part (b4) of Figure 21, when the cartridge B is moved to the complete mounted position, the axis L101 of the main mounting side engagement portion 100 and the axis L151 of the drive side flange 150 are made substantially coaxial with each other by means of positioning to determine the position of the cartridge B relative to the main assembly A of the apparatus. At this time, the coupling member 180 is moved in the direction indicated by the arrow with shaft L151 of drive side flange 150.

[00206] The coupling member 180 enters the space portion 100f of the main mounting side engagement portion 100. At this time, the coupling member 180 is overlapped with the main mounting side engagement portion 100 in the axis direction L101. Simultaneously, the rotational force receiving portion 180b3 is opposite the rotational force applying portion 100a2, such that the rotational force receiving portion 180a3 is opposite the rotational force applying portion 100a1. In this way, the coupling member 180 is engaged with the main mounting side engagement portion 100 to enable rotation of the coupling member 180. The position of the coupling member 180 at this time is substantially the same as the first position described above (position designed).

[00207] When the cartridge B is moved to the fully assembled position, the first projected portion 180a and the second projected portion 180b may be overlapped with the rotational force-applying portion 100a1 and the rotational force-applying portion 100a2 when viewed in the axis direction L101, depending on the rotational phase of the main mounting side engagement portion 100. In such a case, the coupling member 180 cannot enter the space portion 100f. In such a case, by the main mounting side engagement portion 100 being rotated by a drive source which will be described next, the first projected portion 180a, the second projected portion 180b and the rotational force applying portion 100a1, the applying portion of rotational force 100a2 become non-superimposed on each other when viewed in the direction of axis L101. Then, the coupling member 180 becomes able to enter the space portion 100f by the pressing force F170 of the pressing member 170. That is, the main mounting side engagement portion 100 is able to engage, while being rotated by the source of drive, with the coupling member 180, which then begins to rotate.

[00208] As shown in part (a) of Figure 23, the description will be made about the case that the axis L183 of the coupling member 180 is perpendicular to the mounting direction of the cartridge B (arrow X1).

[00209] As shown in part (b1) of Figure 23, cartridge B is moved in the direction of arrow X1. Then, the third main assembly contact portion 180b5 contacts the contact portion 108a. At this time, the third main mounting contact portion 180b5 receives a force F2 from the contact portion 108a because of the mounting movement of the cartridge B. The third main mounting contact portion 180b5 is inclined relative to the L181 axis by angle θ1 ( part (b) of Figure 14) as described previously, and therefore, the force F2 is inclined relative to the L182 axis by the angle θ1, and a force of component F2a of the force F2 in the direction of the arrow X8 is produced. Therefore, when the cartridge B is moved further in the direction of arrow X1, the coupling member 180 is moved by the force of component F2a in the direction of arrow in part (b2) of Figure 23. Here, the angle θ1 formed between the third main mounting contact portion 180b5 and the axis L181 is selected such that the coupling member 180 can move to the direction of the arrow X8 by the force F2a against the pressing force F170 of the pressing member 170. Thereafter, similarly to the case of part (b3) of Figure 21 and part (b4) of Figure 21, the cartridge B can be moved to the complete assembled position while maintaining the pressing member coupling 180 in the space portion 150f of the drive side flange 150.

[00210] The preceding description was made with respect to the case in which the X1 mounting direction of cartridge B is parallel with or perpendicular to the L183 axis. However, when the direction of axis L183 is different from the mounting direction in one and the angle, the coupling member 180 moves in the direction of arrow X8 similarly, and therefore, the coupling member 180 can pass the contact portion 108a . The coupling member 180 is moved by the force F1 along the guide portion 150j1 - the guide portion 150j4 in the direction indicated by the arrow arrow direction of X8.

[00211] Therefore, with the structure described above, the cartridge B can be mounted to the main assembly A of the apparatus independent of the rotational phases of the coupling member 180 and the main mounting side engagement portion 100 relative to the mounting direction of the cartridge B to the main assembly A of the device.

[00212] As described above, according to the structure of the present invention, the coupling member 180 can engage with the main mounting side engagement portion 100 with a simple structure, without using a complicated structure for the main assembly A of the device or cartridge B.

[00213] In this embodiment, the contact portion 108a of the side plate 108 shown in Figure 20 is in the form of an edge, but the contact portion 108a may be chamfered or rounded. By doing so, in the movement of cartridge B in the direction of arrow X1, the coupling member 180 moves easily in the direction of arrow X8, and therefore, the load on the assembly of cartridge B to the main assembly A of the apparatus can be reduced. Furthermore, the occurrences of damage and/or indentation attributable to contact between the main mounting contact portion 180b1 and the contact portion 108a can be reduced.

[00214] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in part (b) of Figure 14, the third main mounting contact portion 180a5 and the third main mounting contact portion 180b5 are inclined relative to the L181 axis by angle θ1. However, the third main mounting contact portion 180a5 and the third main mounting contact portion 180b5 may be provided by a spherical surface on the main mounting contact portion 180a1 and the main mounting contact portion 180b1.

[00215] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in part (b2) of Figure 21, the coupling member 180 moves in the direction of arrow X8 after the round body 180c contacts the cylindrical inner wall portion 150r1. However, it is a possible alternative that at the time of contact of the round body 180c with the cylindrical inner wall portion 150r1, the coupling member 180 passes the contact portion 108a. To provide such a structure, as shown in part (a1) of Figure 24 and part (a2) of Figure 24, for example, the slope θ3 is reduced, or the opening D is increased, whereby the movement distance N is increased. . Or, as shown in part (b1) of Figure 24 and part (b2) of Figure 24, projection quantities Q of the first projected portion 180a and the second projected portion 180b of the opening 150e of the drive side flange 150 to the drive side drive can be reduced. In such a case, the main side surface 180a4 and the main side surface 180b4 of the coupling member 180 are moved to the arrow X8 beyond the contact portion 108a to pass the contact portion, only by movement along the guide portion 150j1 - the guide portion 150j4. Therefore, it is unnecessary to produce the component force F1a of the force F1 in the direction of arrow X8. Therefore, it is unnecessary for the configurations of the main mounting contact portion 180a1 and the main mounting contact portion 180b1 to be substantially spherical (that is, the angle θ7 in Figure 22 is 0°). In doing so, the design latitude for the first projected portion 180a and the second projected portion 180b is increased.

(9) Rotational force transmission operation to the coupling:

[00216] Referring to Figure 25 by Figure 27, the operation of transmitting rotational force when the photosensitive drum 10 is rotated will be described. Figure 25 illustrates the complete assembled position of cartridge B. Part (a) of Figure 25 is a view when viewed from the drive side, and part (b) of Figure 25 is a view when viewed from the non-drive side. Figure 26 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the drive structure of the main assembly A of the apparatus. Part (a) of Figure 26 is a schematic perspective view of a drive transmission path, and part (b) of Figure 26 is a schematic sectional view taken along a line S9 of part (a) of Figure 26. Part (c) of Figure 26 is an enlarged view of the roundness of the first projected portion 180a of part (b) of Figure 26. Part (a) of Figure 27 is a perspective sectional view illustrating a rotational force transmission path. Part (b) of Figure 27 is an enlarged schematic perspective view illustrating the contact between the rotational force-applying portion 100a1 and the rotational force-receiving portion 180b3, and which parts behind the rotational force-applying portion 100a1 are indicated by lines dashed.

[00217] Referring first to Figure 25, the positioning of cartridge B in the main assembly A of the device when transmitting rotational force will be described. When the cartridge B is mounted in the fully assembled position, the drive side portion 30b is received by a positioning portion 120a1 provided on a downstream side of the first guide portion 120a with respect to the cartridge mounting direction X1. Simultaneously, the non-drive side portion 21f is received by a positioning portion 125a1 provided on a downstream side of a second guide portion 125a with respect to the cartridge mounting direction X1. On the drive side of the main assembly A of the apparatus, a drive side pressing spring 121 is provided that impels a pressing portion 121a to the cartridge positioning portion 120a1 (arrow direction X121). When the cartridge B is mounted in the fully assembled position, the pressing portion 121a of the drive-side pressing spring 121 contacts a driven portion (portion to be driven) 30b1 of the drive-side supported portion 30b, and the driven-side supported portion 30b drive 30b is urged to contact the cartridge positioning portion 120a1. Similarly, on the non-drive side of the main assembly A of the apparatus, a non-drive side pressing spring 126 is provided which impels a pressing portion 126a to the cartridge positioning portion 125a1 (arrow direction X125). When the cartridge B is mounted in the fully assembled position, the pressing portion 126a of the non-driven side pressing spring 126 contacts the driven portion 21f1 of the non-driven side supported portion 21f, and the non-driven side supported portion 21f is driven to contact to the cartridge positioning portion 125a1. Therefore, the position of the cartridge B relative to the main assembly A of the device is determined. At this time, a rotation prevention portion 21e is accommodated in a rotational position regulating portion 120b1 provided on the downstream side of the lower guide portion 120b with respect to the mounting direction X1 so as to contact a rotational position regulating surface. 120b2. On the other hand, the non-drive side guide portion 21g is accommodated in an accommodation portion 125b1 provided on a downstream side of a lower guide portion 125b with respect to the mounting direction X1.

[00218] In this way, cartridge B is correctly positioned in the cartridge positioning portion 120a1 and in the cartridge positioning portion 125a1 of the main assembly A of the apparatus.

[00219] The rotational force transmission operation when rotating the photosensitive drum 10 will be described.

[00220] As shown in part (a) of Figure 26 and part (b) of Figure 26, a motor 106 as the driving source of the main assembly A of the apparatus is fixed to the side plate 109 constituting the housing of the main assembly A of the apparatus and is provided with a coaxial pinion gear 107 rotating integrally with the motor 106. As previously described, the main mounting side engagement portion 100 is correctly positioned in the diametrical direction on the main mounting A of the apparatus such that the gear portion drive gear 100c and pinion gear 107 are in mesh engagement with each other. Therefore, when the motor 106 rotates, the main mounting side engagement portion 100 rotates by the drive gear portion 100c.

[00221] Furthermore, as shown in part (b) of Figure 26 and part (c) of Figure 26, the main mounting side engagement portion 100 is positioned such that in the rotational force transmission operation, the most projected portion 100m1 and the most projected portion 100m2 are within the support range 103h with respect to the direction of axis L101. Here, the range of support 103h is the range in which the bearing member 103 and the main mounting side engagement portion 100 contact each other when the bearing member 103 rotationally supports the main mounting side engagement portion 100. Therefore, the axis tilt of the main mounting side engagement portion 100 that may be caused by the load on the transmission of rotational force to the main mounting side engagement portion 100 during rotational force transmission can be suppressed. Therefore, uneven rotation of the main mounting side engagement portion 100 attributable to axis tilt can be suppressed, and the rotational force is smoothly transmitted to the coupling member 180 of the main mounting side engagement portion 100, and therefore, the photosensitive drum 10 can be rotated precisely.

[00222] The drive gear portion 100c and the pinion gear 107 are helical gears. The twist angles of the helical gear are selected such that the main mounting side engagement portion 100 is propelled in the direction of arrow X7, which is parallel with the axis L101, by the rotational force provided by the motor 106. By contact between the contact 100d of the main mounting side engagement portion 100 and the contact portion 103b of the bearing member 103, movement of the main mounting side engagement portion 100 in the direction of arrow X7 is limited. By this, the position of the main mounting side engagement portion 100 in axis direction L101 relative to the main mounting A of the apparatus is determined. Furthermore, a variation of the amount of engagement K between the main mounting side engagement portion 100 and the coupling member 180m which will be described next can be reduced. Here, the engagement amount K is a length from the most projecting portion 100m1 of the rotational force-applying portion 100a2 to the free-end corner portion 180a7 of the rotational force-receiving portion 180a3, measured in the direction of axis L181, as shown in part ( c) of Figure 26.

[00223] As shown in part (a) of Figure 27, the main mounting side engagement portion 100 is rotated in the direction indicated by X10, by the rotational force received from the motor 106 as the drive source. The rotational force applicator portion 100a1 and the rotational force applicator portion 100a2 provided on the main mounting side engagement portion 100 contact the rotational force receiving portion 180a3 and the rotational force receiving portion 180b3 of the coupling member 180, respectively. Therefore, the rotational force is transmitted from the main mounting side engagement portion 100 to the coupling member 180. In the following, the state in which the rotational force applying portion 100a1 and the rotational force applying portion 100a2 contact the rotational force applying portion 100a2 rotational force receiving portion 180a3 and the rotational force receiving portion 180b3 of the coupling member 180 is called "two-point contact".

[00224] In this embodiment, the V1 offset (part (c) of Figure 18), which is the distance between the L101 axis and the most projected portion 100m1, is equal to the V2 offset (part (b) of Figure 14), which is the distance between the axis L181 and the rotational force receiving portion 180a3. In doing so, when the rotational force applying portion 100a1 contacts the rotational force receiving portion 180a3, the axis L182 of the coupling member 180 and the axis L102 of the main mounting side engagement portion 100 are parallel to each other. Then, as shown in part (b) of Figure 27, the rotational force-applying portion 100a1 contacts the rotational force-receiving portion 180a3 at the most projecting portion 100m1, and the contact range has a width in the direction of axis L182 (width of contact H1). Similarly, the rotational force applying portion 100a2 and the rotational force receiving portion 180b3 contact each other with a contact width H2 (not shown). In this embodiment, when the rotational force-applying portion 100a1 and the rotational force-receiving portion 180a3 contact each other, the L182 axis and the L102 axis are parallel to each other, but the L182 axis can be made inclined relative to the L102 axis by making the offset V1 and V2 offset are different from each other.

[00225] On the other hand, as previously described, the rotational force transmitting portion 180g1 and the rotational force transmitting portion 180g2 fit the rotational force receiving portion 150g1 and the rotational force receiving portion 150g2 with almost no opening in the axis direction L182 (part (c) of Figure 15), and therefore, the substantially parallel state is maintained between them. Therefore, the coupling member 180 can transmit rotation about the axis L181 of the drive side flange 150. Therefore, the rotation of the coupling member 180 is transmitted to the drive side flange 150 by the rotational force transmitting portion 180g1, by the rotational force transmitting portion 180g2, by the rotational force receiving portion 150g1 and by the rotational force receiving portion 150g2.

[00226] As described above, rotational force is transmitted from the main mounting side engagement portion 100 to the photosensitive drum 10 by the coupling member 180 and the drive side flange 150, thereby rotating the photosensitive drum 10.

[00227] In this embodiment, in the rotational force transmission operation, the main assembly side engagement portion 100 is placed in a predetermined position on the main assembly A of the apparatus with respect to the radial direction. Furthermore, the drive side flange 150 is also placed in a predetermined position on the main assembly A of the apparatus by the cartridge B with respect to the radial direction. The main mounting side engagement portion 100 in the predetermined position and the drive side flange 150 in the predetermined position are connected to each other by the coupling member 180. When the main mounting side engagement portion 100 and the side flange drive members 150 are positioned such that the axis L151 and the axis L101 are substantially coaxial with each other, the coupling member 180 rotates with the axis L181 in the axis L101 substantially aligned with each other. Therefore, the main mounting side engagement portion 100 is capable of smoothly transmitting the rotational force to the photosensitive drum 10 by the coupling member 180.

[00228] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 28, the L151 axis and the L101 axis may be deviated more or less from the coaxial state due to variation or similar in part dimensions. Referring to Figure 28, the drive transmission when the L151 shaft and the L101 shaft are offset will be described. The direction in which the L151 axis and the L101 axis are deviated from each other is called "J axis deviation direction", and the amount of deviation is called "J1 axis deviation amount". Part (a1) by part (a3) of Figure 28 shows the drive transmission state when viewed from the drive side. Part (a1) of Figure 28 shows the state in which the deviation direction of J axis and the L183 axis are perpendicular to each other, part (a2) of Figure 28 shows the state in which the deviation direction of J axis and the axis L183 are parallel to each other, and part (a3) of Figure 28 shows the state in which the J axis deviation direction is inclined relative to the L183 axis. Part (b1) - part (b3) of Figure 28 are schematic sectional views taken along a plane SL183 parallel to axis L183 in part (a1) - part (a3) of Figure 28.

[00229] Referring to part (a1) of Figure 28, the description will be made about the case that the J axis deviation direction is perpendicular to the L183 axis. In this case, the coupling member 180 cannot move in the direction of axis L182 relative to the drive side flange 150, and therefore, the coupling member 180 moves by the amount of axis deviation amount J1 in the direction of axis L182 relative to the main mounting side engagement portion 100. Then, corresponding to the amount of axis deviation J1, the engagement width H1 between the rotational force applying portion 100a1 and the rotational force receiving portion 180a3 becomes small, and vice versa , the engagement width H2 between the rotational force applying portion 100a2 and the rotational force receiving portion 180b3 becomes large. That is, the main mounting side engagement portion 100 and the coupling member 180 are brought into two-point contact with each other while changing the engagement width H1 and the engagement width H2.

[00230] The description will be made about the case that the J axis deviation direction is parallel with the L183 axis as shown in part (a2) of Figure 28. In this case, the coupling member 180 cannot move in the direction of axis L183 relative to the main mounting side engagement portion 100, and therefore, the coupling member 180 moves by the amount of axis offset J1 in the direction of axis L183 relative to the drive side flange 150. As shown in part ( b2) of Figure 28, with the movement of the coupling member 180 to the axis L183, the coupling member 180 moves in the direction of an arrow X62 in the guide portion 150j3. In this state, the main mounting side engagement portion 100 and the coupling member 180 can be brought into two-point contact.

[00231] Referring to part (a3) of Figure 28, the description will be made about the case that the J axis deviation direction is inclined relative to the L183 axis. A component of the J1 axis runout amount in the L182 axis direction is J2 runout, and a component in the L183 axis direction is J3 runout. Then, the coupling member 180 moves by the amount of offset J2 in the axis direction L182 relative to the main mounting side engagement portion 100, and the engagement width H1 and the engagement width H2 change. Furthermore, the coupling member 180 moves by the amount of axis deviation J3 in the axis direction L183 relative to the drive side flange 150, and moves in the direction of arrow X62 (part (b3) of Figure 28). In this state, the main mounting side engagement portion 100 and the coupling member 180 can be brought into two-point contact. When the coupling member 180 is driven, the axis L183 becomes perpendicular, parallel and inclined relative to the J axis offset direction. Therefore, the coupling member 180 assumes one of the states shown in Figure 28 while moving in the direction of the axis L183 relative to the drive side flange 150 and while moving in the direction of axis L182 relative to the main mounting side engagement portion 100. Therefore, the coupling member 180 can maintain two-point contact with the drive side engagement portion 100. main mounting side 100. During a complete rotation of the coupling member 180, the axis L181 and the axis L151 are furthest from each other when the offset direction of axis J and axis L183 are parallel to each other (part (a2) of Figure 28). Therefore, the amount of engagement K between the main mounting engagement portion 100 and the coupling member 180 is minimum in the state shown in part (b2) of Figure 28. Therefore, the amount of engagement K is to be sufficient to ensure the engagement amount K greater than 0 even in the state of part (b2) of Figure 28. Furthermore, the engagement width H1 and the engagement width H2 change with the movement of the coupling member 180 to the axis L182. The rotational force receiving portion 180a3 is convergently tapered by the provision of the third main mounting contact surface 180b5 (part (b) of Figure 27), and therefore, the engagement width H1 and the engagement width H2 change with the movement of the axis L181 of the coupling member 180. Therefore, the engagement width H1 and the engagement width H2 are required to be determined so that the engagement width H1 and the engagement width H2 are always more than 0 during a complete rotation of the member coupling 180.

[00232] As described in the foregoing, the coupling member 180 is capable of maintaining two-point contact with the main mounting side engagement portion 100 moving in the direction of axis L183. Therefore, drive transmission by only one of the rotational force receiving portion 180a3 and the rotational force receiving portion 180b3 does not occur, and therefore, the load applied to the rotational force receiving portion 180a3, the rotational force receiving portion 180b3, the rotational force applying portion 100a1 and the rotational force applying portion 100a2 can be diversified. Therefore, the coupling member 180 and the main mounting side engagement portion 100 are not subjected to excessive load during transmission of rotation. (10) Coupling disengagement operation in cartridge disassembly operation:

[00233] Referring to Figure 29 through Figure 33, the description will be made of the operation of disengaging the coupling member 180 from the main mounting side engagement portion 100 when the cartridge B is disassembled from the main mounting A of the apparatus. Part (a) of Figure 29 and part (a) of Figure 33 show the disassembly direction of cartridge B and section S10, and section S11. Parts (b1) - (b4) of Figure 29 and part (a1) - part (a3) of Figure 32 show the S section of part (a) of Figure 29 and are schematic sectional views illustrating disengagement of the coupling member 180 from the main mounting side engagement portion 100. Parts (b1) - (b4) of Figure 33 is a section S11 of part (a) of Figure 33, and is a schematic sectional view illustrating the state of the coupling member 180 disengaging from the main mounting side engagement portion 100. Figure 30 is an enlarged view of the roundness of the drive side flange unit U2 and the main mounting side engagement portion 100 of part (b3) of Figure 29. In Figure 29 32, the coupling member 180 is not shown in section, and the guide portion 150j1 and the guide portion 150j2 of the drive side flange 150 are depicted by dashed lines for better illustration. In Figure 30, the second projected portion 180b of the coupling member 180 in the initial state of disassembly (which will be described next) is described by dashed lines. In the following, the rotational force receiving portion side 180b3 will be taken into explanation.

[00234] As shown in part (a) of Figure 29, the description will be made about the case in which the disassembly direction of the cartridge B (arrow X12) and the axis L183 of the coupling member 180 are parallel to each other.

[00235] As shown in part (b1) of Figure 29, the cartridge B is moved in the disassembly direction X12, which is substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10 and which is substantially perpendicular to the axis L151 of the side flange. drive 150 to be dismantled from the main apparatus assembly A. In the state that the imaging operation has been completed, and the rotation of the main mounting side engagement portion 100 has been stopped, the rotational force applying portion 100a1 comes into contact with the rotational force receiving portion 180a3, and the rotational force receiving portion 180a3 rotational force applicator 100a2 contacts the rotational force receiving portion 180b3. With respect to the disassembly direction X12 of cartridge B, the rotational force-applying portion 100a2 is on the downstream side of the rotational force-receiving portion 180b3. In this embodiment, any portion of the coupling member 180 other than the rotational force receiving portion 180a3 and the rotational force receiving portion 180b3 does not contact the main mounting side engagement portion 100. This is the initial state of disassembly.

[00236] The position of the coupling member 180 in the state of part (b1) of Figure 29 is the first position (enable rotational force transmission position). The first position (enabled rotational force transmission position) is substantially the same as the first position described above (designed position). At this time, the rotational axis L181 of the coupling member 180 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More particularly, the rotational axis L181 and the rotational axis L1 are aligned with each other. The rotational axis L181 of the coupling member 180 is substantially parallel to the axis L151 of the drive side flange 150. More particularly, the rotational axis L181 and the rotational axis L151 are aligned with each other.

[00237] Then, cartridge B is moved in the disassembly direction X12. Then, as shown in part (b2) of Figure 29, the rotational force receiving portion 180b3 on the upstream side of the coupling member 180 with respect to the disassembly direction receives a force F5 from the rotational force applying portion 100a2 upon disassembly of the cartridge B. The force F5 is perpendicular to the rotational force-receiving portion 180b3, and therefore, it is parallel with the axis L183, which is a normal line of the rotational force-receiving portion 180b3. Therefore, when the coupling member 180 receives the force F5, it moves in the direction of the arrow guide 150j2 of drive side flange 150.

[00238] Here, the rotational force receiving portion 180b3 (and the rotational force receiving portion 180a3) is placed such that the coupling member 180 can be moved by force F5 in the direction of axis L183. In this embodiment, the rotational force receiving portion 180b3 (and the rotational force receiving portion 180a3) is the flat surface perpendicular to the L183 axis, and therefore, the direction of the force F5 is parallel with the L183 axis. Therefore, the user can move the cartridge B in the disassembly direction

[00239] When the cartridge B is moved further in the disassembly direction of coupling 180 relative to the drive side flange 150 in the direction of axis L183 is limited. An amount of movement of the coupling member 180 from the initial disassembly state to this state, when measured in the direction of axis L181, is a movement distance M (Figure 30). Then, the movement distance M is determined by the inclination 03 of the guide portions 150j1 - 150j4 relative to the axis L181 in opening D (part (c) of Figure 11). In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 30, the placement is such that the free end corner portion 180b7 of the rotational force receiving portion 180b3 is on the arrow side , the movement distance M is greater than the engagement quantity K. Therefore, a force of component F5a of the force F5 in the direction of the arrow X8 is produced, because the force F5 is perpendicular to the cylindrical surface 100e2 of the force-applying portion rotational 100a2. By the force of component F5a, the coupling member 180 further moves in the direction of the arrow X12. As shown in part (b4) of Figure 29, the coupling member 180 is disengaged from the space portion 100f of the main mounting side engagement portion 100.

[00240] The position of the coupling member 180 in part (b4) of Figure 29 is the second position (disengageable position). The second position (disengageable position) is substantially the same as the second position described above (retracted position). At this time, the rotational axis L181 of the coupling member 180 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More specifically, there is an opening between the rotational axis L181 and the rotational axis L1 (the rotational axis L181 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially out of alignment). The rotational axis L181 of the coupling member 180 is substantially parallel to the axis L151 of the drive side flange 150. More specifically, at this time, there is an opening between the rotational axis L181 and the rotational axis L151 (the rotational axis L181 and the rotational L1 are substantially out of alignment). In this second position, the coupling member 180 is displaced (moved/retracted) to the photosensitive drum 10 (to the other side of the end portion of the photosensitive drum 10 in the longitudinal direction) from the position in the first position.

[00241] After that, as shown in part (a1) of Figure 32 and part (a2) of Figure 32, the cartridge B moves in the direction of arrow X12 while the coupling member 180 is in the hollow portion 150f of the side flange 150. As shown in part (a3) of Figure 32, when the coupling member 180 passes the contact portion 108a of the side plate 108, it moves in the direction of arrow X9 by the pressing force F170 of the pressing member 170, and cartridge B is removed from the device's main assembly A.

[00242] In summary, upon disassembly of cartridge B from the main assembly A of the apparatus, the coupling member 180 is disengaged from the main assembly side engagement portion 100. In other words, upon disassembly of cartridge B from the main assembly In the apparatus, the coupling member 180 receives force from the main mounting side engagement portion 100, such that the coupling member 180 moves from the first position to the second position. In other words, upon disassembly of the cartridge B from the main assembly A of the apparatus, the coupling member receives the force from the main mounting side engagement portion 100 and the drive side flange 150 to move (displace) from the first position (enabled rotational force transmission position) to the second position (disengageable position).

[00243] In this embodiment, parts of the rotational force applicator portion 100a1 and the rotational force applicator portion 100a2 are cylindrical, but this is not restrictive to the present invention. For example, as shown in part (a) of Figure 31, the rotational force applying portion 100a2 may be provided with a chamfered portion 100t to the opening end portion 100g so that when the round body 180c of the coupling member 180 contacts the cylindrical inner wall portion 150r2, the force component F5a of the force F5 in the direction of arrow X8 is produced. Or, as shown in part (b) of Figure 31, a drive-side free end of the rotational force receiving portion 180b3 of the coupling member 180 may be provided with a round portion 180b6 so that the rotational force applying portion 100a2 be a flat surface parallel to the L101 axis. Furthermore, as shown in part (c) of Figure 31, the structure may be such that when the round body 180c of the coupling member 180 contacts the cylindrical inner wall portion 150r2, the main side surface 180b4 is disengaged from the space 100f.

[00244] Referring to part (a) of Figure 33, the description will be made about the case that the axis L183 of the coupling member 180 is perpendicular to the disassembly direction X12 of the cartridge B.

[00245] Cartridge B is moved to the disassembly direction X12 as shown in part (b1) of Figure 33. Then, the coupling member 180 moves together with the drive side flange 150 in the disassembly direction X12 since the Movement of the coupling member 180 relative to the drive side flange 150 in the direction of shaft L182 is limited.

[00246] As shown in part (b2) of Figure 33, the second main mounting contact portion 180b2 as a retraction force receiving portion on the upstream side of the coupling member 180 with respect to the disassembly direction applying retraction force 100n1 on the downstream side of the main mounting side engagement portion 100 with respect to the dismounting direction X12. Therefore, the second main assembly contact portion 180b2 receives a force F9 (retraction force) from the retraction force applying portion 100n1 by the cartridge B disassembly operation. At this time, the second main assembly contact portion 180b2 is inclined by an angle θ2 relative to the L181 axis. Therefore, a force of component F9a in the direction of arrow X8 is produced since the force F9 is inclined by the angle θ2 relative to the L182 axis.

[00247] When cartridge B is set in motion in the disassembly direction X12, as shown in part (b3) of Figure 33, the coupling member 180 is moved in the direction of arrow X8 against the pressing force F170 of the pressing member 170 by component force F9a. As shown in part (b4) of Figure 33, the coupling member 180 is disengaged from the space portion 100f of the main mounting side engagement portion 100.

[00248] Thereafter, similarly to the case of part (a1) by part (a3) of Figure 32, the cartridge B moves in the direction of arrow X12 while the coupling member 180 is in the hollow portion 150f of the drive side flange 150, and the coupling member 180 is removed from the main assembly A of the apparatus.

[00249] In the foregoing description, the disassembly direction even when the disassembly direction is different from those described above. In such a case, upon disassembly of the cartridge B, one of the rotational force receiving portion 180a3 and the rotational force receiving portion 180b3 contacts one of the rotational force applying portion 100a1 and the rotational force applying portion 100a2. Or, one of the second main mounting contact portion 180a2 and the second main mounting contact portion 180b2 contacts one of the retraction force applying portion 100n1 and the retraction force applying portion 100n2. Then, the coupling member 180 receives one of the force F5 and the force F9 to move relative to the drive side flange 150 in the direction of arrow X8 so that it can be disengaged from the main mounting side engagement portion 100.

[00250] Therefore, the cartridge B can be removed from the main assembly A of the apparatus regardless of the rotational phase relationship between the coupling member 180 and the main assembly side engagement portion 100.

[00251] As described in the foregoing, the coupling member 180 placed in the space portion 100f of the main mounting side engagement portion 100 can be disengaged to the outside of the space portion 100f in response to the operation of disassembling the cartridge B. Therefore , the cartridge B can be disassembled in the direction substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis of the photosensitive drum 10.

[00252] According to the embodiment of the present invention, the coupling member 180 is movable relative to the drive side flange 150 in the direction of axis L181 and in the direction of axis L183. Furthermore, the coupling member 180 is movable relative to the drive side flange 150 in the axis direction L181 in interrelation with the movement in the axis direction L183. Therefore, when the cartridge B is mounted to the main assembly A of the apparatus by moving the cartridge B in the direction substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10, the coupling member 180 moves in the direction of the axis L181 to allow engagement with the portion main mounting side coupling 100. When cartridge B is dismounted from the main mounting A of the apparatus by moving cartridge B in the direction substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10, the coupling member 180 moves in the direction of axis L181 to allow disengagement of the main mounting side engagement portion 100. Furthermore, when the cartridge B is disassembled from the main mounting A of the apparatus, it is unnecessary to rotate either of the photosensitive drum 10 and the main mounting side engagement portion 100. Therefore, the disassembly load of cartridge B is reduced, and the utility performance when disassembling cartridge B from the main assembly A of the device is improved.

[00253] The configurations of the first projected portion 180a and the second projected portion 180b of the coupling member 180 and the rotational force applying portion 100a1 and the rotational force applying portion 100a2 of the main mounting side engagement portion 100 are not limited to those described above. For example, as shown in part (a) of Figure 34, a coupling member 181 is provided with a projecting portion 181a. The projected portion 181a is provided with a rotational force receiving portion 181a1 and a rotational force receiving portion 181a2 perpendicular to the L183 axis, and with a tapered portion 181a3 and a tapered portion 181a4 inclined relative to the L181 axis when viewed in the direction of the L183 axis. . On the other hand, as shown in part (b) of Figure 34, a main mounting side engagement portion 101 is provided with a rotational force-applying portion 101a1 and a rotational force-applying portion 101a2 that are opposite to the rotational force-receiving portion. rotational force 181a1 and the rotational force receiving portion 181a2 when it is engaged with the coupling member 181. The main mounting side engagement portion 101 is provided with a cylindrical inner wall portion 101a3 and a cylindrical inner wall portion 101a4 which are opposite the tapered portion 181a3 and the tapered portion 181a4. The structures with the exception of the coupling member 181 and the main mounting side engagement portion 101 are the same as those described in the foregoing, and the description is omitted by applying the same reference numerals and characters.

[00254] With this arrangement, when the driving force is transmitted from the main mounting side engagement portion 101 to the photosensitive drum 10, the rotational force applying portion 101a1 and the rotational force applying portion 101a2 contact the photosensitive receiving portion 101a2. rotational force 181a1 and the rotational force receiving portion 181a2 so that the coupling member 181 can receive the rotational force from the main mounting side engagement portion 101.

[00255] When the cartridge B is moved in the mounting direction receive the force F2. By the force of component F2a of force F2, the coupling member 181 can move in the direction of arrow X8. Or, as shown in part (b) of Figure 35, the rotational force receiving portion 181a1 (or the rotational force receiving portion 181a2) contacts the contact portion 108a to receive the force F1. By force F1, the coupling member 181 can move in the direction of arrow X62 (or arrow X61) along guide portion 150j1 - guide portion 150j4.

[00256] When the cartridge B is moved in the disassembly direction (or the cylindrical inner wall portion 101a3) to receive the force F9. By the force of component F9a of force F92, the coupling member 181 can move in the direction of arrow X8. Or, as shown in part (b) of Figure 36, the rotational force receiving portion 181a2 (or the rotational force receiving portion 181a1) contacts the rotational force applying portion 101a2 (or the rotational force applying portion 101a1) to receive the force F5. By force F5, the coupling member 181 can move in the direction of arrow X62 (or arrow X61) along guide portion 150j1 - guide portion 150j4.

Implementation 2

[00257] Referring to Figure 37 by Figure 54, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[00258] In the description of this embodiment, the same reference numerals as in Embodiment 1 are named to the elements having corresponding functions in this embodiment, and the detailed description thereof is omitted for simplicity, and the structure and operation that are different from Embodiment 1 will be described. Also, parts names of similar parts will be named. This applies to the other embodiments, too.

[00259] Similar to the description of Embodiment 1, rotational axes of a drive side flange 250, a coupling member 280 and a main mounting side engagement portion 100 will be called axes. This applies to the other embodiments, too.

[00260] The mounting direction of the cartridge B to the main assembly A of the apparatus and the disassembly direction of the cartridge B from the main assembly A of the apparatus in this embodiment are similar to those of Embodiment 1, and this applies to the other embodiments, too.

[00261] Referring first to Figure 37, the structure of a coupling unit U23 used in this embodiment will be described. As shown in Figure 37, the coupling unit U23 comprises the coupling member 280, an intermediate slider 230 as an intermediate transmission member, and a guided pin (pin to be guided) 240.

[00262] Coupling member 280 will be described in detail. The rotational axis of the coupling member 280 is an L281 axis, a direction perpendicular to the L281 axis is an L282 axis, and a direction perpendicular to both the L281 axis and the L282 axis is an L283 axis.

[00263] Part (a) - part (c) of Figure 37 are exploded perspective views of the coupling unit U23. Part (d) - part (e) of Figure 37 illustrates the coupling unit U23, and part (d) of Figure 37 is a view when viewed in the direction of axis L281, and part (e) of Figure 37 is a view when view in the direction of axis L283. In part (e) of Figure 37, a cylindrical inner wall portion 230r1 and a cylindrical inner wall portion 230r2 (which will be described below) of the slider 230 are exposed by dashed lines.

[00264] The coupling member 280 comprises a first projecting portion 280a, a second projecting portion 280b, a round body 280c, a cylindrical portion 280r1, a cylindrical portion 280r2, a first rotational force transmitting portion 280g1, a first rotational force transmitting portion rotational force 280g2 and a through hole 280m.

[00265] The through holes 280m are cylindrical and are provided in the first rotational force transmitting portion 280g1 and the first rotational force transmitting portion 280g2, and the central axes of the through holes 280m are parallel with the axis L283.

[00266] The first rotational force transmitting portion 280g1 and the first rotational force transmitting portion 280g2 are flat surfaces perpendicular to the L283 axis, and arranged in diametrically opposite positions to each other with respect to the L281 axis, when viewed in the direction of the L281 axis. The cylindrical portion 280r1 and the cylindrical portion 280r2 are cylindrical, and the central axis thereof is the L281 axis, and they are arranged in diametrically opposite positions to each other with respect to the L281 axis, when viewed in the direction of the L281 axis. The round body 280c also has a cylindrical shape having the central axis aligned with the L281 axis, and has a radius that is larger than those of the cylindrical portion 280r1 and the cylindrical portion 280r2.

[00267] The first projected portion 280a and the second projected portion 280b have a rotational force receiving portion 280a3, a rotational force receiving portion 280b3, a second main mounting contact portion 280a2 and a second main mounting contact portion 280b2 . The connecting portion between the round body 280c and the rotational force receiving portion 280a3 and the rotational force receiving portion 280b3 smoothly connect them by the round configuration portion 280a5, R configuration portion 280b5. Drive side free end portions of the first projecting portion 280a and the second projecting portion 280b are provided with a round free end portion 280a1 and a free end portion R 280b1 extending along entire circumferences thereof. In this embodiment, the rotational force receiving portion 280a3 and the rotational force receiving portion 280b3 have flat surfaces perpendicular to the L283 axis, and the second main mounting contact portion 280a2 and the second main mounting contact portion 280b2 have perpendicular flat surfaces to axis L282.

[00268] Intermediate cursor 230 will be described in detail. As shown in part (a) of Figure 37, the rotational axis of the coupling member 230 is an L231 axis, and a direction perpendicular to the L231 axis is an L232 axis, and a direction perpendicular to both the L231 axis and the L232 axis is an L233 axle.

[00269] The intermediate slider 230 mainly comprises a hollow portion 230f, an outer peripheral portion 230e, and first guide portions 230j1 - 230j4.

[00270] The outer periphery portion 230e is provided with a cylindrical projection 230m1 and a cylindrical projection 230m2 extending from a second rotational force transmitting portion 230k1 and a second rotational force transmitting portion 230k2 (which will be described below) in the direction of axis L232.

[00271] The second rotational force transmitting portion 230k1 and the second rotational force transmitting portion 230k2 have flat surfaces perpendicular to the L232 axis, and arranged in positions diametrically opposite to each other with respect to the L231 axis. Furthermore, a round body 230c1 and a round body 230c2 have cylindrical shapes having the central axes aligned with the L231 axis and arranged in positions diametrically opposite to each other with respect to the L231 axis.

[00272] The hollow portion 230f is provided with a first rotational force receiving portion 230g1 and a first rotational force receiving portion 230g2 having flat surfaces perpendicular to the L233 axis, and the cylindrical inner wall portion 230r1 and the cylindrical inner wall portion 230r2 having a cylindrical shape with the central axis thereof aligned with the L231 axis. The cylindrical inner wall portion 230r1 and the cylindrical inner wall portion 230r2 are disposed at positions diametrically opposite to each other with respect to the L231 axis, when viewed in the direction of the L231 axis.

[00273] As shown in part (e) of Figure 37, the first guide portion 230j3 and the first guide portion 230j4 are inclined by an angle 04 relative to the L231 axis when viewed in the direction of the L233 axis. The first guide portion 230j3 and the first guide portion 230j4 have symmetrical configurations with respect to the L231 axis when viewed in the direction of the L233 axis. As shown in part (a) of Figure 37, the first guide portion 230j1 and the first guide portion 230j2 are disposed at diametrically opposite positions of the first guide portion 230j3 and the first guide portion 230j4 with respect to axis L231, respectively. .

[00274] As shown in Figure 37, the cylindrical portion 280r1, the cylindrical portion 280r2, the first rotational force transmitting portion 280g1 and the first rotational force transmitting portion 280g2 are provided in the hollow portion 230f such that the axis L283 of the coupling 280 is parallel to the axis L233 of the intermediate slide 230. As shown in part (d) of Figure 37, the first rotational force transmitting portion 280g1 and the first rotational force transmitting portion 280g2 are engaged with the first rotational force receiving portion 230g1 and the first rotational force receiving portion 230g2, respectively with almost no opening in the direction of the L283 axis. Therefore, the coupling member 280 is prevented from movement relative to the intermediate slider 230 in the direction of axis L283. The intermediate slide 230 is prevented from rotating relative to the coupling member 280 in the direction of axis L231. That is, a rotational force is transmitted from the coupling member 280 to the intermediate slider 230 by the engagement between the first rotational force transmitting portion 280g1 and the first rotational force transmitting portion 280g2 and the first rotational force receiving portion 230g1 and the first rotational force receiving portion 230g2.

[00275] The cylindrical portion 280r1, the cylindrical portion 280r2, the cylindrical inner wall portion 230r1 and the cylindrical inner wall portion 230r2 are provided such that when the axis L281 of the coupling member 280 is substantially coaxial with the axis L231 in the portion hollow 230f, openings D1 are provided between the cylindrical portion 280r1 and the cylindrical inner wall portion 230r1 and between the cylindrical portion 280r2 and the cylindrical inner wall portion 230r2, respectively. Therefore, the coupling member 280 is movable relative to the intermediate slide 230 in the direction of axis L282.

[00276] As shown in part (c) of Figure 37 and part (e) of Figure 37, the cylindrical guided pin 240 is inserted into a through hole 230 m of the coupling member 230. As will be described below, when the coupling member 230 coupling 280 is driven to the drive side (arrow intermediate slider 230 for the drive side, and the axis L281 substantially coaxial with the axis L231.

[00277] Figures 38 and 39, the structure of a U22 drive side flange unit used in this embodiment will be described. Part (a) of Figure 38 is a schematic perspective view of a photosensitive drum unit U21 to which the drive side flange unit U22 is mounted, when viewed from the drive side. Part (b) of Figure 38 is a schematic sectional view taken along a line S21 in part (a) of Figure 38, and part (c) of Figure 38 is a schematic sectional view taken along a line S22 in part (a) of Figure 38. Figure 39 is an exploded perspective view of the drive side flange unit U22. In part (c) of Figure 38, the coupling unit U23 is not sectioned, and a second guide portion 250j1, a second guide portion 250j2 and a sliding groove 250s1 are depicted by dashed lines for better illustration.

[00278] As shown in Figure 38, the drive side flange unit U22 comprises the drive side flange 250, the coupling unit U23, the retaining pin 291, the retaining pin 292, the pressing member 270 and the cursor 260.

[00279] Referring first to Figure 39, the drive side flange 250 will be described in detail. The rotational axis of the drive side flange is axis L251, a direction perpendicular to axis L251 is axis L252, and a direction perpendicular to both axis L251 and axis L252 is axis L253.

[00280] The drive side flange 250 is provided with a coupling support portion 250b, a gear portion 250c and a support portion 250d and so on. The interior of the drive side flange 250 is hollow and will be called a hollow portion 250f.

[00281] In the hollow portion 250f, there are provided a second rotational force receiving portion 250g1 and a second rotational force receiving portion 250g2 which have flat surfaces perpendicular to the axis L252, a cylindrical inner wall portion 250r having a cylindrical shape with the axis central portion of this aligned with axis L251, and second guide portions 250j1 - 250j4.

[00282] As shown in part (c) of Figure 38, the second guide portion 250j1 and the second guide portion 250j2 are inclined relative to the L251 axis by an angle θ5, when viewed in the direction of the L252 axis. The second guide portion 250j1 and the second guide portion 250j2 are symmetrical with respect to the L251 axis when viewed in the direction of the L252 axis. The second guide portion 250j3 and the second guide portion 250j4 are disposed at diametrically opposite positions of the second guide portion 250j1 and the second guide portion 250j2 with respect to axis L251, respectively.

[00283] The cylindrical inner wall portion 250r is provided with the sliding groove 250s1 and the sliding groove 250s4. As will be described next, the sliding groove 250s1 and the sliding groove 250s4 are through holes supporting the retaining pin 291 and the retaining pin 292, and have respective rectangular shapes having long sides extending in the direction of axis L253, when viewed in the direction of axis L252.

[00284] As shown in Figures 38, 39, the coupling unit U23 is arranged in the hollow portion 250f of the drive side flange 250 such that the axis L282 is parallel to the axis L252. The second rotational force transmitting portion 230k1 and the second rotational force transmitting portion 230k2 of the intermediate slider 230 are engaged with the second rotational force receiving portion 250g1 and the second rotational force receiving portion 250g2 with almost no opening in the direction of axis L282 , respectively. Therefore, the coupling unit U23 is prevented from movement relative to the drive side flange 250 in the direction of shaft L282 (part (d) of Figure 39). The intermediate slide 230 is prevented from rotating relative to the drive side flange 250 about the shaft L251. That is, the rotational force is transmitted from the intermediate slide 230 to the flange 250 by engagement between the second rotational force transmitting portion 230k1 and the second rotational force receiving portion 250g1 and between the second rotational force transmitting portion 230k2 and the second portion 250g2 rotational force receiver.

[00285] As shown in part (c) of Figure 38, the round body 230c1, the round body 230c2 and the cylindrical inner wall portion 250r are provided such that when the axis L281 of the coupling unit U23 is substantially coaxial with the axis L251 in the hollow portion 250f, openings D2 are provided between the round body 230c1 and the cylindrical inner wall portion 250r and between the round body 230c2 and the cylindrical inner wall portion 250r. Therefore, the coupling unit U23 is movable relative to the drive side flange 250 in the direction of the axis L283. As will be described next, when the intermediate slider 230 is driven to the drive side (arrow the second portion of 250j4 guide. Therefore, the intermediate slider 230 is prevented from disengaging from the drive side flange 250 to the drive side, and the shaft L231 is substantially coaxial with the shaft L251.

[00286] As shown in Figure 38, the slider 260 as the retaining member (the movable member) is provided with a cylindrical portion 260a engaged with the cylindrical portion 280r1 and the cylindrical portion 280r2 of the coupling member 280, a contact portion 260b contacted by an end portion 270a of the pressing member 270, a through hole 260c1 - a through hole 260c4 penetrated by the retaining pin 291 and the retaining pin 292. The central axis of the cylindrical portion 260a is an axis L261.

[00287] The cylindrical portion 260a engages with the cylindrical portion 280r1 and the cylindrical portion 280r2 of the coupling member 280 with almost no openings to support them. Therefore, the coupling member 280 is movable in the direction of the L281 axis while keeping the L281 axis and the L261 axis coaxial with each other.

[00288] On the other hand, as shown in part (c) of Figure 39, the cylindrical retaining pin 291 and retaining pin 292 are inserted into the through hole 260c1 - through hole 260c4 of the slider 260 with almost no opening in the radial direction such that the center axes of the retaining pin 291 and the retaining pin 292 are parallel with the L252 axis of the drive side flange 250. The retaining pin 291 and the retaining pin 292 are supported by the sliding groove 250s1 and the sliding groove 250s4 of the drive side flange 250, so that the slider 260 and the drive side flange 250 are connected to each other.

[00289] As shown in part (c) of Figure 38, the retaining pin 291 and the retaining pin 292 are juxtaposed on shaft L253. The diameters of the retaining pin 291 and the retaining pin 292 are slightly smaller than the width of the sliding groove 150s1 and the sliding groove 150s4 measured in the direction of axis L251. Therefore, cursor 260 maintains parallelism between axis L261 and axis L251. Furthermore, the slider 260 is prevented from movement relative to the drive side flange 250 in the direction of axis L251. In other words, the cursor 260 is movable in the direction substantially perpendicular to the L251 axis.

[00290] As shown in part (b) of Figure 38, the retaining pin 291 and the retaining pin 292 are prevented from disengaging in the direction of axis L252 by the opening 10a2 of the photosensitive drum 10. Furthermore, the lengths G4 of the pin retaining pin 291 and retaining pin 292 are made larger than a G5 diameter of the cylindrical inner wall portion 250r. By doing so, the retaining pin 291 and the retaining pin 292 are prevented from disengaging from the sliding groove 250s1 and the sliding groove 250s4.

[00291] Furthermore, between the retaining pin 291 and an end portion 250s2 of the sliding groove 250s1 and between the retaining pin 292 and the other end portion 250s3 of the sliding groove 250s1, openings E3 larger than the opening D2 are provided (part (c) of Figure 38). Between the retaining pin 291 and an end portion 250s5 of the sliding groove 250s4 and between the retaining pin 292 and the other end portion 250s6 of the sliding groove 250s4, openings similar to opening E2 are provided. Additionally, lubricant (not shown) is applied to through hole 260c1 - through hole 260c4, sliding groove 250s1 and sliding groove 250s4. Therefore, the slider 260 is smoothly movable relative to the drive side flange 250 in the direction of axis L253.

[00292] Therefore, the cursor 260 is movable relative to the drive side flange 250 in the directions of axis L252 and axis L253 and in a direction provided by vector sum of these directions (that is, any direction perpendicular to axis L251), while maintaining parallelism between the L261 axis and the L251 axis. In other words, the cursor 260 is movable substantially in the direction perpendicular to the L251 axis. Furthermore, the slider 260 is prevented from moving relative to the drive side flange 250 in the direction of the axis L251.

[00293] As shown in part (b) of Figure 38, an end portion 270a of the pressing member 270 contacts a spring contact portion 260b of the slider 260, and another end portion 270b contacts a spring contact portion 280d1 of the coupling member 280. The pressing member 270 is compressed between the coupling member 280 and the slider 260 to urge the coupling member 280 towards the drive side (arrow X9). As shown in part (e) of Figure 37, the pressing member 270 also drives the intermediate slider 230 to the drive side (arrow X9), by contact between the guide pin 240 mounted on the coupling member 280 and the first guide portion. 230j1 - first portion of guide 230j4.

[00294] With the structures described above, the coupling member 280 maintains the state relative to the drive side flange 250 by the slider 260 such that the axis L281 and the axis L251 are parallel to each other. The intermediate slide 230 does not rotate relative to the coupling member 280 about the axis L231, and does not rotate relative to the drive side flange 250 about the axis L233. Therefore, the intermediate slide 230 remains relative to the coupling member 280 and the drive side flange 250 such that the axis L231 is parallel to the axis L281 and the axis L251.

[00295] Additionally, the coupling member 280 is movable relative to the intermediate slider 230 in the direction of axis L282. Furthermore, the intermediate slide 230 is movable relative to the drive side flange 250 in the direction of axis L233. In other words, when viewed in the direction of axis L251, the direction of movement of the coupling member 280 relative to the intermediate slider 230 and the direction of movement of the intermediate slider 230 relative to the drive side flange 250 are substantially intersecting each other (more particularly, substantially perpendicular to each other). Therefore, the coupling member 280 is movable relative to the drive side flange 250 in the direction of axis L282, in the direction of axis L233 and in a direction provided by vector sum of these directions (that is, any direction perpendicular to axis L281). .

[00296] Furthermore, by the impulsion of the pressing member 270, the axis L281 of the coupling member 280 is substantially coaxial with the axis L231 of the intermediate slider 230, and the axis L231 is substantially coaxial with the axis L251 of the drive side flange 250. Therefore, the coupling member 280 is driven by the pressing member 270 relative to the drive side flange 250 such that the shaft L281 and the shaft L251 are substantially coaxial with each other.

[00297] Referring to Figure 40 by Figure 43, the operation of the coupling member 280 will be described. Figure 40 shows the state in which the axis L281 of the coupling member 280 is coaxial with the axis L251 of the drive side flange 250. Part (a) of Figure 40 is a view when viewed from the drive side, part (b) of Figure 40 and part (c) of Figure 40 are sectional views taken along a line SL283 parallel with the axis L283 and a line SL282 parallel with the axis L282 of part (a) of Figure 40, respectively. The lines along which the sectional views are taken apply to Figure 41 through Figure 43. Figure 41 shows the state in which the coupling member 280 has been moved relative to the drive side flange 250 in the direction of an arrow X51 parallel with the L283 axis. Figure 42 shows the state in which the coupling member 280 has been moved relative to the drive side flange 250 in the direction of an arrow X41 parallel with the axis L282. Figure 44 is a view in which the coupling member 280 has been moved a distance p in a direction of an arrow X45 that is in the direction provided by a sum of the vectors of the arrow X41 and the arrow X51.

[00298] First, the coupling member 280c is impelled by the pressing force F270 of the pressing member 270 such that the first guide portion 230j3 and the first guide portion 230230j4 contact the guide pin 240, and the second guide portion 250j1 and the second guide portion 250j2 contacts the cylindrical projection 230m1, as shown in Figure 40. As shown in part (c) of Figure 40, by contact between the first guide portion 230j3 and the first guide portion 230j4 and the guide pin 240, the L281 axis and the L231 axis are especially coaxial when viewed in the direction of the L282 axis. On the other hand, as shown in part (b) of Figure 40, by the contact between the second guide portion 250j1 and the second guide portion 250j2 and the cylindrical projection 230m1, the axis L231 and the axis L251 become substantially coaxial, when viewed in the direction of axis L283. Therefore, by the pressing force F270 from the pressing member 270 to the coupling member 280, the axis L281 and the axis L251 become substantially coaxial with each other.

[00299] Then, as shown in part (a) of Figure 41, the coupling member 280 is moved relative to the drive side flange 250 in the direction of arrow X51 parallel with the axis L283. Then, as shown in part (b) of Figure 41, the coupling unit U23 is moved in the direction in the second guide portion 250j1 (arrow X61) by the contact between the cylindrical projection 230m1 as an inclined portion or contact portion of the intermediate slider 230 and the second guide portion 250j1 as an inclined portion or contact portion of the drive side flange 250. At this time, the coupling unit U23 maintains the state in which the axis L281 is parallel to the axis L251. Therefore, the coupling unit U23 is movable in the direction of the arrow equal to opening D2. On the other hand, the slider 260 is prevented from moving in the direction of the axis L251, by the retaining pin 291 and the retaining pin 292. Therefore, in interrelation with the movement of the coupling unit U23 in the direction of the arrow X61 , the cursor 260 moves together with the retaining pin 291 and the retaining pin 292 in the direction of arrow X51 along the sliding groove 250s1 and the sliding groove 250s4.

[00300] When the coupling member 280 is moved in the opposite direction of arrow X51, the coupling member 280 moves along the second guide portion 250j2, similarly.

[00301] On the one hand, as shown in part (a) of Figure 42, the coupling member 280 is moved relative to the drive side flange 250 in the direction of arrow X41 parallel with the axis L282. Then, as shown in part (c) of Figure 42, the coupling member 280 is moved in the direction along the first guide portion 230j4 (arrow X71) by contact between the guide pin 240 as the inclined portion or contact portion and the first guide portion 230j4 as the inclined portion or contact portion of the intermediate slider 230. At this time, the coupling member 280 is such that parallelism is maintained between the axis L281 and the axis L231. Therefore, the coupling member 280 is movable in the direction of the arrow L282 is the same as opening D1. On the other hand, the slider 260 is prevented from moving in the direction of the axis L251, by the retaining pin 291 and the retaining pin 292. Therefore, in interrelation with the movement of the coupling member 280 in the direction of the arrow X71, the cursor 260 moves in the direction of arrow X41 along the central axis of the retaining pin 291 and the retaining pin 292.

[00302] When the coupling member 280 is moved in the direction opposite to that of arrow X41, the coupling member 280 moves along the first guide portion 230j3, similarly.

[00303] Furthermore, as shown in part (a) of Figure 43, the coupling member 280 is moved relative to the drive side flange 250 in the direction of arrow X45 by the distance p. A component of the distance p in the direction of the L282 axis is p4, and the component of this in the direction of the L283 axis is p5. Then, the coupling member 280 moves relative to the intermediate slider 230 in the direction of axis L282 by the distance p4. Simultaneously, the coupling member 280 and the intermediate slider 230 move relative to the drive side flange in the direction of axis L283 by the distance p5. With the movement of the coupling member 280 relative to the intermediate slider 230, the coupling member 280 moves along the first guide portion 230j4 by the distance p41, and moves relative to the intermediate slider 230 in the direction of arrow X8 (part (c ) of Figure 43). Simultaneously, with the movement of the intermediate slide 230 relative to the drive side flange 250, the intermediate slide 230 and the coupling member 280 move along the second guide portion 250j1 by the distance p51, and move relative to the side flange drive 250 in the direction of arrow X8 (part (b) of Figure 43). Therefore, with movement of the coupling member 280 in the direction of arrow X45 by distance p, it moves in the direction of arrow X8 by distance p41+p51.

[00304] The structure for movement of the coupling member 280 in the direction of arrow X8 is similar to that of Embodiment 11, and therefore, the description is omitted.

[00305] As described in the foregoing, the coupling member 280 is movable relative to the drive side flange 250 in the direction of axis L281, in the direction of axis L283 and in the direction of axis L282. Furthermore, the coupling member 280 is movable relative to the drive side flange 250 in the direction of axis L281 in interrelationship with movement in the direction of axis L283, in the direction of axis L282 and in the direction provided by the sum of the vectors thereof. directions, that is, any direction perpendicular to the L281 axis.

[00306] Referring to Figure 44 to Figure 46, the operation of engaging the coupling member 280 will be described. Figures 44 and 46 are a schematic sectional view showing the state in which the coupling member 280 engages with the main mounting side engagement portion 100. Part (a) of Figure 44 and part (a) of Figure 46 show the direction assembly and the lines along which a sectional view S23 and sectional view S24 are taken. Part (b1) of Figure 44 through part (b4) of Figure 44 are schematic sectional views taken along a line S23 - S23 of part (a) of Figure 44, in which the coupling member 280 moves to engage with the main mounting side engagement portion 100. Part (b1) of Figure 46 and part (b2) of Figure 46 are schematic sectional views taken along a line S24 of part (a) of Figure 46, in which the coupling 280 moves to engage with the main mounting side engagement portion 100. Part (a) of Figure 45 and part (b) of Figure 45 are enlarged views of the roundness of the drive side flange unit U22 shown in part (b1) of Figure 44 and part (b2) of Figure 44. In part (b) of Figure 45 and part (b2) of Figure 46, the first projected portion 280b in the initial state (which will be described next) of the assembly is described by dashed lines. In the following, description will be made about the completion of engagement between the main mounting side engagement portion 100 and the coupling member 280.

[00307] As shown in part (a) of Figure 44, the description will be made about the case that the axis L283 of the coupling member 280 and the mounting direction of the cartridge B (arrow X1) are parallel to each other.

[00308] As shown in part (b1) of Figure 44 and part (a) of Figure 45, when the cartridge B is moved in the direction of arrow X1, the round body 280c of the coupling member 280 contacts the contact portion 108a. This state is the initial state of the assembly. The position of the coupling member 280 in the state shown in part (b1) of Figure 44 is a first position (designed position). At this time, the rotational axis L281 of the coupling member 280 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More particularly, the rotational axis L281 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially aligned with each other. The rotational axis L281 of the coupling member 280 is substantially parallel to the axis L251 of the drive side flange 250. More particularly, the rotational axis L281 and the rotational axis L251 are substantially aligned with each other.

[00309] As the assembly of cartridge B advances, the round body 280c receives the force F1 from the main assembly side contact portion 108a as the fixed member. The force F1 is directed parallel to the direction of the arrow strength F1. The coupling unit U23 moves relative to the drive side flange 250 along the second guide portion 250j1 in the direction of arrow X61.

[00310] As shown in part (b2) of Figure 44 and part (b) of Figure 45, the round body 230c1 of the intermediate slider 230 contacts a cylindrical inner wall portion 250r1 of the drive side flange 250 to limit movement of the coupling unit U23 in the direction of X61. At this time, in the direction of axis L281, a movement distance of coupling unit U23 from the initial assembly state is N2. The movement distance N2 is determined by the angle 05 of the second guide portion 250j1 - the second guide portion 250j4 relative to the axis L251 and the opening D2 (part (c) of Figure 38).

[00311] In the state shown in part (b) of Figure 45, the coupling unit U23 is the distance from the position in the initial state of the assembly shown in part (b1) of Figure 44 and part (a) of Figure 45 in the direction of arrow X8 for a movement distance N2. The movement distance N2 is selected such that only the free end portion R 280b1 of the coupling member 280 projects beyond the drive side flange 250. Then, the force F1 is directed to the center of the configuration R of the configuration portion of round free end 280b1, and therefore the force F1 produces a force of component F1a in the direction of arrow X8. With the movement of the cartridge B in the mounting direction X1, the coupling member 280 is further moved in the direction of the arrow X8 against the pressing force F270 of the pressing member 270 by the component force F1a. As shown in part (b3) of Figure 44, the coupling member 280 can pass the contact portion 108a. The position of the coupling member 280 shown in part (b3) of Figure 44 is a second position (retracted position). At this time, the rotational axis L281 of the coupling member 280 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More specifically, there is an opening between the rotational axis L281 and the rotational axis L1 (the rotational axis L281 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially out of alignment). The rotational axis L281 of the coupling member 280 is substantially parallel to the axis L251 of the drive side flange 250. More specifically, at this time, there is an opening between the rotational axis L281 and the rotational axis L251 (the rotational axis L281 and the axis rotational L1 are substantially out of alignment). In this second position, the coupling member 280 is displaced (moved/retracted) to the photosensitive drum 10 (to the other side of the end portion of the photosensitive drum 10 in the longitudinal direction) from the position in the first position.

[00312] Similarly to Embodiment 1, when the cartridge B is moved to the complete assembled position thereafter, the coupling member 280 is projected in the direction of arrow X9 by the pressing force F270 of the pressing member 270, so that the member coupling portion 280 can be brought into engagement with the main mounting side engagement portion (part (b4) of Figure 44). That is to say, at this time, the position of the coupling member 280 is substantially the same as the first position (designed position).

[00313] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 46, the description will be made in the case that the axis L283 of the coupling member 280 and the mounting direction of the cartridge B (arrow X1) are perpendicular to each other.

[00314] When cartridge B is mounted in the direction of arrow X1, the round body 280c of the coupling member 280 contacts the contact portion 108a. With additional mounting movement of the cartridge B, the round body 280c receives the force F2 from the main mounting side contact portion 108a. The force F2 is directed parallel to the arrow Then, the coupling member 280 moves relative to the intermediate slider 230 along the first guide portion 230j4 in the direction of arrow X71.

[00315] As shown in part (b2) of Figure 46, the cylindrical portion 280r1 of the coupling member 280 contacts the cylindrical inner wall portion 230r1 of the intermediate slider 230, so that the movement of the coupling member 280 in the direction of X71 be prevented. At this time, in the direction of axis L281, the movement distance of the coupling member 280 from the initial state is N3 (part (b2) of Figure 46). The movement distance N3 is determined by the angle 04 of the first guide portion 230j1 - first guide portion 230j4 relative to the axis L231 and the opening D1 (part (c) of Figure 37).

[00316] In the state shown in part (b2) of Figure 46, the coupling member 280 is distant from the position in the initial state of the assembly in the direction of arrow X8 by the movement distance N3. The movement distance N3 is selected such that only the free end portion R 280b1 of the coupling member 280 projects beyond the drive side flange 250. Then, the force F1 is directed to the center of the round configuration of the end portion free R 280b1, and therefore, the force F2 produces a force of component F2a in the direction of arrow X8. With the movement of the cartridge B in the mounting direction X1, the coupling member 280 is further moved in the direction of the arrow Thereafter, cartridge B can be moved to the completed assembled position by the process similar to that shown in part (b3) of Figure 44 and part (b4) of Figure 44.

[00317] Referring to Figure 47, the description will be made of an operation of transmitting rotational force to the photosensitive drum 10 in this embodiment. Figure 47 is a perspective sectional view illustrating a rotational force transmission path.

[00318] The rotational force transmission path from the main mounting side engagement portion to the coupling member 280 is similar to that of Embodiment 1, and therefore, the detailed description is omitted. The coupling member 280 having received the rotational force transmits the rotational force from the first rotational force transmitting portion 280g1 and the first rotational force transmitting portion 280g2 to the intermediate slider 230 through the first rotational force receiving portion 230g and the first rotational force receiving portion 230g rotational force 230g2. Then, the intermediate slider 230 transmits the rotational force to the drive side flange 250 of the second rotational force transmitting portion 230k1 and from the second rotational force transmitting portion 230k2 to the second rotational force receiving portion 250g1 and the second force receiving portion rotational 250g2. Similarly to the member, rotational force is transmitted from the drive side flange 250 to the photosensitive drum 10.

[00319] Referring to Figure 48 through Figure 51, description will be made of the operation of disengaging the coupling member 280 from the main mounting side engagement portion 100 when the cartridge B is disassembled from the main mounting A of the apparatus.

[00320] Part (a) of Figure 48 and part (a) of Figure 50 show the disassembly direction of cartridge B and the lines along which sectional view S25 and sectional view S26 are shown. Parts (b1) - (b4) of Figure 48 are a section S25 of part (a) of Figure 48, and is a schematic sectional view illustrating the state of the coupling member 180 disengaging from the main mounting side engagement portion 100. Parts (b1) - (b4) of Figure 50 are a section S26 of part (a) of Figure 50, and is a schematic sectional view illustrating the state of the coupling member 180 disengaging from the main mounting side engagement portion 100. Figures 49 and 51 are enlarged views of the roundness of the drive side flange unit U22 shown in part (b3) of Figure 48 and part (b3) of Figure 50. In the sectional view of Figure 48 - Figure 51, the coupling unit U23 is not sectioned, for better illustration. In part (b1) of Figure 48 - part (b4) of Figure 48 and Figure 49, the second guide portion 250j1 and the second guide portion 250j2 of the drive side flange 250 are indicated by dashed lines. In parts (b1) - (b3) of Figure 50 and Figure 51, the cylindrical inner wall portion 230r1 and the cylindrical inner wall portion 230r2 of the intermediate slider 230 are described by dashed lines. In the following, the rotational force receiving portion side 280b3 will be taken into explanation.

[00321] First, as shown in Figure 48, the description will be made about the case that the disassembly direction of the cartridge B (arrow X12) and the axis L283 of the coupling member 280 are parallel to each other.

[00322] The position of the coupling member 280 in the state shown in part (b1) of Figure 48 is the first position (enabled rotational force transmission position). The first position (enabled rotational force transmission position) is substantially the same as the first position (designed position). At this time, the rotational axis L281 of the coupling member 280 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More particularly, the rotational axis L281 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially aligned with each other. The rotational axis L281 of the coupling member 280 is substantially parallel to the axis L251 of the drive side flange 250. More particularly, the rotational axis L281 and the rotational axis L251 are substantially aligned with each other.

[00323] As shown in part (b2) of Figure 48, when the cartridge B is moved in the X12 disassembly direction, the rotational force receiving portion 280b3 on the upstream side of the coupling member 280 receives the force F5 from the rotational force 100a2. The force F5 is directed perpendicular to the rotational force receiving portion 280b3, that is, parallel to the axis L283, and therefore, the cylindrical projection 230m1 of the intermediate slide 230 and the second guide portion 250j2 of the drive side flange 250 contact each other. si by force F5. The coupling unit U23 moves relative to the drive side flange 250 in the direction of arrow X62 along the second guide portion 250j2.

[00324] When the cartridge B is moved further in the direction of the disassembly direction of Figure 48. Therefore, the movement of the coupling unit U23 relative to the drive side flange 250 in the direction of arrow X62 is limited. The movement distance N2 described above is selected such that the free end portion R 280b1 of the second projected portion 280b contacts the rotational force-applying portion 100a2 on the non-drive side of a more projected portion 100m2 of the rotational force-applying portion 100a2 at this time. , as shown in Figure 49. Therefore, the force F5 is directed to the center of the round configuration portion of the round free end 280b1, and therefore, a force of component F5a of the force F5 is produced in the direction of the arrow X8. With the movement of the cartridge B in the direction of the disassembly direction X12, the coupling member 280 is further moved in the direction of the arrow X8 against the pressing force F270 of the pressing member 270 by the component force F5a. As shown in part (b4) of Figure 48, the coupling member 280 is disengaged from the space portion 100f of the main mounting side engagement portion 100.

[00325] The position of the coupling member 280 in part (b4) of Figure 48 is the second position (disengageable position). The second position (disengagement-enabled position) is substantially the same as the first position described above (retracted position). At this time, the rotational axis L281 of the coupling member 280 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More specifically, there is an opening between the rotational axis L281 and the rotational axis L1 (the rotational axis L281 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially out of alignment). The rotational axis L281 of the coupling member 280 is substantially parallel to the axis L251 of the drive side flange 250. More specifically, at this time, there is an opening between the rotational axis L281 and the rotational axis L251 (the rotational axis L281 and the axis rotational L1 are substantially out of alignment). In this second position, the coupling member 280 is displaced (moved/retracted) to the photosensitive drum 10 (to the other side of the end portion of the photosensitive drum 10 in the longitudinal direction) from the position in the first position.

[00326] In summary, upon disassembly of cartridge B from the main assembly A of the apparatus, the coupling member 280 is disengaged from the main assembly side engagement portion 100. In other words, upon disassembly of cartridge B from the main assembly In the apparatus, the coupling member 280 receives force from the main mounting side engagement portion 100, such that the coupling member 280 moves from the first position to the second position. Furthermore, in other words, upon disassembly of the cartridge B from the main assembly A of the apparatus, the coupling member 280 receives the force from the main mounting side engagement portion 100 and the drive side flange 250 to move from the first position (rotational force transmission position enabled) to the second position (disengagement enabled position).

[00327] As shown in part (a) of Figure 50, the description will be made about the case that the axis L283 of the coupling member 280 is perpendicular to the disassembly direction X12 of the cartridge B.

[00328] The coupling member 280 in part (b1) of Figure 50 is also the first position (enabled rotational force transmission position). At this time, the rotational axis L281 of the coupling member 280 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More particularly, the rotational axis L281 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially aligned with each other. The rotational axis L281 of the coupling member 280 is substantially parallel to the axis L251 of the drive side flange 250. More particularly, the rotational axis L281 and the rotational axis L251 are substantially aligned with each other.

[00329] The position of the intermediate cursor 230 in part (b1) of Figure 50 is a first median position. At this time, a rotational axis L231 of the intermediate slider 230 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More particularly, the rotational axis L231 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially aligned with each other. Furthermore, the rotational axis L231 of the intermediate slide 230 is substantially parallel to the axis L251 of the drive side flange 250. More particularly, the rotational axis L231 and the rotational axis L251 are substantially aligned with each other.

[00330] When cartridge B is moved in the direction of disassembly direction X12 from the state shown in part (b1) of Figure 50, the coupling member 280 moves in the direction of disassembly direction X12 together with the drive side flange 250 and the intermediate slider 230. As shown in part (b2) of Figure 50, the second main mounting contact portion 280b2 on the upstream side of the coupling member 280 with respect to the disassembly direction X12 contacts a surface wall portion plane 100k1 on the downstream side with respect to the disassembly direction X12, and cartridge B receives the force F9 upon disassembly of it. The force F9 is directed perpendicular to the second main mounting contact portion 280b2, that is, parallel to the axis L282. Therefore, by force F9, the coupling member 280 moves in the direction of the arrow first guide portion 230j1 of the intermediate cursor 230.

[00331] When cartridge B is moved further in the disassembly direction Figure 50. By this, the movement of the coupling member 280 relative to the drive side flange 250 and the intermediate slider 230 in the direction of arrow X72 is regulated. The movement distance N3 described above is selected such that the round free end portion 280b1 of the second projected portion 280b contacts a retraction force applicator portion 100n1, as shown in Figure 51 at this time. Therefore, the force F9 is directed towards the center of the round configuration of the round free end portion 280b1, and therefore, a force of component F9a of the force F9 is produced in the direction of arrow X8. With the movement of the cartridge B in the direction of the disassembly direction X12, the coupling member 280 is further moved in the direction of the arrow X8 against the pressing force F270 of the pressing member 270 by the component force F9a. As shown in part (b4) of Figure 50, the coupling member 280 is disengaged from the space portion 100f of the main mounting side engagement portion 100. The position of the coupling member 180 shown in part (b4) of Figure 50 it is also the second position (disengagement enabled position). At this time, the rotational axis L281 of the coupling member 280 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More specifically, there is an opening between the rotational axis L281 and the rotational axis L1 (the rotational axis L281 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially out of alignment). The rotational axis L281 of the coupling member 280 is substantially parallel to the axis L251 of the drive side flange 250. More specifically, at this time, there is an opening between the rotational axis L281 and the rotational axis L251 (the rotational axis L281 and the axis rotational L1 are substantially out of alignment). In this second position, the coupling member 280 is displaced (moved/retracted) to the photosensitive drum 10 (to the other side of the end portion of the photosensitive drum 10 in the longitudinal direction) from the position in the first position.

[00332] The position of the intermediate cursor 230 shown in part (b4) of Figure 50 is a second median position. At this time, a rotational axis L231 of the intermediate slider 230 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More specifically, there is an opening between the rotational axis L231 and the rotational axis L1 (the rotational axis L231 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially out of alignment). Furthermore, the rotational axis L231 of the intermediate slide 230 is substantially parallel also with the axis L251 of the drive side flange 250. More specifically, at this time, there is an opening between the rotational axis L231 and the rotational axis L251 (the rotational axis L231 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially out of alignment). In the second position, the intermediate slider 230 is displaced (moved/retracted) towards the photosensitive drum 10 (to the other side of the end portion of the photosensitive drum 10 with respect to the longitudinal direction), when compared to the first position.

[00333] In summary, upon disassembly of cartridge B from the main assembly A of the apparatus, the coupling member 280 is disengaged from the main assembly side engagement portion 100. In other words, upon disassembly of cartridge B from the main assembly In the apparatus, the coupling member 280 receives force from the main mounting side engagement portion 100, such that the coupling member 280 moves from the first position to the second position. Furthermore, in other words, upon disassembly of the cartridge B from the main assembly A of the apparatus, the coupling member 280 receives the force from the main mounting side engagement portion 100 and the drive side flange 250 to move from the first position (rotational force transmission position enabled) to the second position (disengagement enabled position).

[00334] In the foregoing, the description was made about the case in which the disassembly direction 12 of the cartridge B is parallel with the axis L283 of the coupling member 280, as an example. However, the coupling member 280 can similarly be removed even from the main mounting side engagement portion 100 when the direction of disassembly is different from those described in the foregoing. In such a case, upon disassembly of the cartridge B, either of the rotational force receiving portion 280a3 and the rotational force receiving portion 280b3 contacts a rotational force applying portion 100a1 and the rotational force applying portion 100a2. Or, either of the second main mounting contact portion 280a2 and the second main mounting contact portion 280b2 contacts one of the flat surface wall portion 100k1 and the flat surface wall portion 100k2. Or, either of the round free end portion 280a1 and the round free end portion 280b1 contact one of the retraction force applying portion 100n1 and the retraction force applying portion 100n2. Then, the coupling member 280 receives at least one of the force F5 and the force F9 by the disassembly operation described above to move relative to the drive side flange 250 in the direction perpendicular to the axis L281. In interrelationship with the movement in the direction perpendicular to axis L281, the coupling member 280 moves in the direction of arrow X8 to disengage from the main mounting side engagement portion 100.

[00335] That is, cartridge B can be disassembled from the main assembly A of the apparatus regardless of the phase rotation of the coupling member 280 and the main assembly side engagement portion 100 relative to the direction of disassembly of cartridge B from the main assembly That of the device.

[00336] In this embodiment, similarly to Embodiment 1, the coupling member 280 has two projecting portions, but the transverse sectional configurations of the projecting portions can be designed freely. Referring to Figure 52 - Figure 54, the description will be made of the case in which the transverse sectional configurations of the projected portions are triangular, for example. Figure 52 is a schematic perspective view of the coupling member 281 and the main mounting side engagement portion 201. Figure 53 illustrates the state in which a drive side flange unit U221 including the coupling member 281 is in engagement. with the main mounting side engagement portion 201. Part (a) of Figure 53 is a view as viewed in the direction of an axis L101, and part (b) of Figure 53 and part (c) of Figure 53 are sectional views taken along S29 and S30 of part (a) of Figure 53, respectively. Figure 54 illustrates the disassembly operation of the drive side flange unit U221 including the coupling member 281 from the main mounting side engagement portion 201. Part (a) of Figure 54 is a view when viewed in the direction of an axis L101, and part (b) of Figure 54 and part (c) of Figure 54 are sectional views taken along S29 and S30 of part (a) of Figure 54, respectively. In part (a) of Figure 53 and part (a) of Figure 54, the coupling unit U231 is not sectioned, and the cylindrical inner wall portion 250r of the drive side flange 250 is depicted by dashed lines. In part (c) of Figure 53 and part (c) of Figure 54, the coupling unit U23 is not sectioned, and the first guide portion 250j1 and the first guide portion 250j2 of the drive side flange 250 are described by of dashed lines.

[00337] As shown in Figure 52, a projecting portion 281a of the coupling member 281 is in the form of a triangular prism protruding from the round body 280c towards the drive side. On the other hand, a rotational force applying portion 201a of the main mounting side engagement portion 201 is in the form of a recessed triangular prism having a shape substantially complementary to the projection 281a.

[00338] In this case, as shown in part (a) of Figure 54, for example, when cartridge B is moved in the direction of disassembly direction X12, the coupling member 281 does not move in the direction of disassembly direction X12 while maintaining engagement with the main mounting side engagement portion 201. On the other hand, the drive side flange 250 moves in the direction of dismounting direction X12, and therefore, the coupling member 281 moves relative to the drive side 250 in the opposite direction to the disassembly direction X12. Therefore, as shown in part (b) of Figure 54 and part (c) of Figure 54, the coupling member 281 moves in the direction of arrow X8 along the first guide portion 230j1 - first guide portion 230j4 and at the same time along the second guide portion 250j1 - second guide portion 250j4. That is to say, the coupling member 281 does not move in the disassembly direction

[00339] As described above, in this embodiment, the coupling member 280 is movable in any direction perpendicular to the axis L281 in addition to the operation in Embodiment 1. That is, the same advantageous effects as with Embodiment 1 are provided, and the latitude of design for the configuration of the rotational force receiving portion is increased. Concretization 3

[00340] Referring to Figure 58 - Figure 86, a third embodiment in accordance with the present invention will be described.

[00341] In the description of this embodiment, the same reference numerals as in the preceding Embodiments are named to the elements having corresponding functions in this embodiment, and the detailed description thereof is omitted for simplicity, and the structure and operation that are different from Embodiment 1 will be described. Also, names of similar parts will be named.

[00342] Similarly to the description of Embodiment 1, the rotational axes of a drive side flange 350, a coupling member 380 and a main mounting side engagement portion 300 will be called axes.

[00343] The mounting direction of cartridge B to the main assembly A of the apparatus and the disassembly direction of cartridge B from the main assembly A of the apparatus in this embodiment are similar to those of Embodiment 1, and this applies to the other embodiments, too. (1) Brief description of process cartridge:

[00344] Figure 58 is a sectional view taken along a line in accordance with the present invention, and Figures 59 and 60 are perspective views of cartridge B.

[00345] As shown in Figure 58 - Figure 60, cartridge B comprises a photosensitive drum 310. When cartridge B is mounted to the main assembly A of the apparatus, the photosensitive drum is rotated by a rotational force received from the main assembly A of the apparatus by a coupling mechanism that will be described below. Cartridge B can be mounted to and dismounted from the main assembly A of the device by the user.

[00346] To an outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 310, a loading roller 311 as a loading means is opposed. The charging roller 311 charges the photosensitive drum 310 being provided with application of electrical voltage from the main assembly A of the apparatus. The loading roller 311 is contacted with the photosensitive drum 310 to be driven by the photosensitive drum 310.

[00347] Cartridge B comprises a developing roller 313 as a developing means. The developing roller 313 is a rotating member capable of carrying a developer t to provide the developer to a developing area on the photosensitive drum 310. The developing roller 313 develops an electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 310 with the developer t. The developing roller 313 contains the magnet roller (fixed magnet) 313c.

[00348] A developing blade 315 is contacted with a peripheral surface of the developing roller 313. The developing blade 315 regulates an amount of developer t deposited on the peripheral surface of the developing roller 313. In addition, it applies a triboelectric charge to the developer t .

[00349] Rotary agitator members 316 and 317 are provided for feeding developer t from a developer accommodation container 314 to a developing chamber 314a. And, the developing roller 313 provided with an electrical voltage is rotated. Therefore, a layer of developer triboelectrically charged by the developing blade 315 is formed on the surface of the developing roller 313. The developer t is passed over the photosensitive drum 310 according to the latent image pattern. Thus, the latent image is revealed. That is, the photosensitive drum 310 as a photosensitive member (rotating member) is capable of carrying a developer image (developer t).

[00350] The developer image formed in the photosensitive drum 310 is transferred onto a recording material 2 (Figure 1) by a transfer roller 4 (Figure 1). The recording material is a sheet of paper, a label, an OHP sheet, for example.

[00351] An elastic cleaning blade 320 as cleaning means is provided against the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 310. A free end of the blade 320 is contacted with the photosensitive drum 310. The blade 320 removes the developer t remaining in the photosensitive drum 310 after transferring the developer image onto the recording material 2. The developer removed from the surface of the photosensitive drum 310 by the blade 320 is accommodated in the removed developer container 321a.

[00352] Cartridge B consists of a developing unit 318 and a drum unit 319 in a unified structure.

[00353] The developing unit 318 comprises a developing device frame 314b, which is a part of a cartridge frame B1. The developing unit 318 comprises the developing roller 313, the developing blade 315, the developing chamber 314a, the developer accommodating container 314 and the agitating members 316 and 317.

[00354] The drum unit 319 comprises a drum frame 321, which is a part of the cartridge frame B1. The drum unit 319 further comprises the photosensitive drum 310, the cleaning blade 320, the removed developer container 321a and the charging roller 311.

[00355] The developing unit 318 and the drum unit 319 are rotatably connected to each other by a pin P. The developing roller 313 is propelled to the photosensitive drum 310 by an elastic member 323 shown in Figure 60 and provided between the units 318 and 319.

[00356] Cartridge B is mounted in a cartridge accommodation portion 330a (Figure 62 which will be described below) of the main assembly A of the apparatus. At this time, as will be described next, a coupling as a rotational force transmitting part of cartridge B is coupled with a main assembly drive shaft A of the apparatus, in interrelation with the assembly operation of cartridge B. The drum photosensitive 310 and so on are rotated by a driving force provided by the main assembly A of the apparatus.

[00357] As shown in Figure 59, a drum bearing 325 is provided on the drive side of the cartridge B to rotatably support a photosensitive drum unit U31 as a photosensitive member unit as will be described next. An outer periphery 325a of an outer end portion of the drum bearing 325 functions as a cartridge guide 340R1. The cartridge guide 340R1 is projected outwardly in the longitudinal direction (direction of the rotational axis L1) of the photosensitive drum 310. When the cartridge guide 340R1 as the projected portion and a coupling member 350 (in a first position state which will be described in next) are projected onto the rotational axis L1, the coupling member 350 and the cartridge guide 340R1 are superimposed on each other. Cartridge guide 340R1 has a function of protecting coupling member 350.

[00358] As shown in Figure 60, a drum shaft 326 is provided on the non-drive side of the cartridge B to rotatably support the photosensitive drum unit U31. The outer periphery 326a of the outer end portion of the drum shaft 326 functions as a cartridge guide 340L1.

[00359] At a longitudinal end (drive side) of the drum unit 319, a cartridge guide 340R2 is provided substantially above the cartridge guide 340R1. At the other longitudinal end (non-drive side), a cartridge guide 340L2 is provided above the cartridge guide 340L1.

[00360] In this embodiment, the cartridge guides 340R1, 340R2 are formed integrally with the drum frame 321. However, the cartridge guides 340R1, 340R2 may not be integral. (2) Main assembly drive structure and cartridge assembly portion:

[00361] Referring to Figure 61, a photosensitive drum drive structure of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus C using the process cartridge according to this embodiment will be described. Part (a) of Figure 61 is a perspective view of the main assembly A of the apparatus without the cartridge B mounted, in which a side plate on the drive side is partially cut out. Part (b) of Figure 61 is a perspective view showing only the drum drive structure. Part (c) of Figure 61 is a sectional view taken along a line S7 - S7 of part (b) of Figure 61.

[00362] The main assembly drive shaft 300 has a spherical free end portion 300b and is provided with a drive transmission pin 302 as the main assembly side rotation drive force transmitting portion substantially penetrating the central portion of the cylindrical main part 300a, and the driving force is transmitted to the cartridge B by the driving transmission pin 302.

[00363] The main assembly drive shaft 300 is provided with a drum drive gear 301 coaxial with the free end portion 300b to the opposite end portion with respect to the longitudinal direction. The drum drive gear 301 is non-rotarily fixed to the main assembly drive shaft 300, and therefore, the main mount drive shaft 300 rotates when the drum drive gear 301 rotates.

[00364] The drum drive gear 301 is arranged in a position for engagement with a pinion gear 307 that receives the drive force from the motor 306. Therefore, when the motor 306 rotates, the main assembly drive shaft 300 rotates .

[00365] The drum drive gear 301 is rotatably supported in the main assembly A of the apparatus by the bearing members 303 and 304. Here, the drive gear 301 does not move in the direction of the axial direction L1, and therefore, the drum drive gear 301 drive 301 and bearing members 303, 304 can be placed close to each other.

[00366] In the foregoing, the drive gear 301 is driven directly by the motor pinion 307, but this is not limiting to the present invention, and a plurality of gears may be provided between them, or a belt or the like may be used for the drive transmission for the convenience of the engine position relative to the main mount A.

[00367] Referring to Figure 62 - Figure 63, a mounting guide provided on the main assembly A of the apparatus for guiding the assembly of cartridge B will be described. Figure 62 is a perspective view of the cartridge mounting portion mounted to the drive side. Figure 63 is a perspective view of the cartridge mounting portion provided on a non-drive side surface.

[00368] As shown in Figures 62 and 63, a cartridge mounting means 330 of this embodiment comprises main mounting guides 330R1, 330R2, 330L1, 330L2 provided on the main assembly A of the apparatus.

[00369] They are provided on the left and right surfaces of the cartridge mounting space (cartridge accommodation portion 330a) provided on the main assembly A of the apparatus to oppose the cartridge mounting means 330 (Figure 62 shows the side surface from the side drive surface, and Figure 63 shows the non-drive side surface). The left and right mounting means 330 are provided with guide portions 330R1, 330L1 and 330R2, 330L2 which function as guides and for mounting cartridge B. By guide portions 330R1, 330R2, 330L1, 330L2, projections, which will be described then provided projections to respective sides of the cartridge frame are guided. When the cartridge B is to be mounted to the main assembly A of the apparatus, a cartridge door 309 as an opening and closing door capable of opening and closing relative to the main assembly A of the apparatus about an axis 309a is opened. By closing cartridge door 309, assembly of cartridge B to main assembly A of the apparatus is completed. When cartridge B is to be removed from the main assembly A of the apparatus, a disassembly operation is performed with the cartridge door 309 open. The assembly and/or disassembly of cartridge B relative to the main assembly can be aided through interrelationship with the opening operation of door 30. (3) Structure of photosensitive member unit (photosensitive drum unit):

[00370] Referring to Figure 64 - Figure 65, the structure of the photosensitive drum unit U31 as the photosensitive member unit will be described. Part (a) of Figure 64 is a schematic perspective view of the photosensitive drum unit U31 when viewed from the drive side, and part (b) of Figure 64 is a schematic perspective view thereof when viewed from the non-drive side. Figure 65 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the photosensitive drum unit U31.

[00371] As shown in Figures 64, 65, the photosensitive drum unit U31 comprises the photosensitive drum 310, a drive side flange unit U32 and a non-drive side flange 352. The photosensitive drum 310 comprises an electroconductive cylinder 310a aluminum or similar and a photosensitive layer covering it. Opposite end portions thereof are provided with openings 310a1, 310a2 substantially coaxial with the drum surface for engaging with drum flanges.

[00372] The drive side flange unit U32 includes the drive side flange 350. The drive side flange 350 is produced through injection molding of resin material such as polyacetal, polycarbonate or the like. The drive side flange 350 is provided with a substantially coaxially engageable bearing portion 350b and a bearing portion 350a. The U32 drive side flange unit will be described in detail below.

[00373] The non-drive side flange 352 is produced by similarly injection molding resin material to the drive side, and the engageable bearing portion 352b and the engageable bearing portion 352a are provided coaxially. The non-drive side flange 352 is provided with a drum ground plate 351. The drum ground plate 351 is a thin electroconductive plate-like member (primarily metal) and includes contact portions 351b1, 351b2 contacted to an inner surface of the electroconductive cylinder 310a and a contact portion 351a contacted with the drum shaft 326 (Figure 60). The ground plate 351 is electrically connected to the main assembly A to electrically ground the photosensitive drum 310.

[00374] The drive side flange 350 and the non-drive side flange 352 are engaged with the openings 310a1, 310a2 of the cylinder 310a by the support portions 350b, 352b, and after that, they are fixed to the cylinder 310a by gluing or similar. The grounding plate 351 is provided on the non-drive side flange 352, but this is not limiting to the present invention. For example, the ground plate 351 may be provided on the drive side flange 350, or on another part connectable to ground. (4) Drive side flange unit:

[00375] Referring to Figure 66 by Figure 71, the structure of the drive side flange unit U32 will be described. Part (a) of Figure 66 is a schematic perspective view of the state in which the drive side flange unit U32 is mounted to the photosensitive drum 310, when viewed from the drive side. In part (a) of Figure 66, the photosensitive drum 310 and the parts therein are described by dashed lines. Part (b) of Figure 66 is a schematic sectional view taken along a line S1 in part (a) of Figure 66, and part (c) of Figure 66 is a schematic sectional view taken along a line S2 in part (a) of Figure 66. In part (c) of Figure 66, a sliding groove 350s1 of the drive side flange 350 is depicted by dashed lines for the convenience of illustration. Figure 67 is an exploded schematic perspective view of the drive side flange unit U32. Figure 68 is a schematic perspective view of the coupling member 380. Figure 69 is an illustration of the coupling member 380. Part (a) of Figure 70 and part (b) of Figure 70 are schematic perspective views of the side flange. drive 350. Part (c) of Figure 70 is a schematic sectional view taken along a line S3 in part (a) of Figure 70 in which a projection 380b1 of the coupling member 130, a retaining pin 391 and a retention 392 are shown for illustration. Part (d) of Figure 70 is a schematic perspective view of the coupling member 380 and the drive side flange 350. Part (a) of Figure 71 is an illustration of the drive side flange 350, a slider 360, of the retaining pin 391 and retaining pin 392, and part (b) of Figure 71 is a sectional view taken along a line SL353 of part (a) of Figure 71. In Figure 71, the photosensitive drum 310 is described by of chain lines with double stitches.

[00376] As shown in Figures 66 and 67, the drive side flange unit U32 comprises the drive side flange 350, the coupling member 380, a pressing member 370, the slider 360, the retaining pin 391 and the retaining pin 392, as the rotational force transmitting member.

[00377] Here, in Figure 66, "L351" is the rotational axis when the drive side flange 350 is rotated, and in the following description, the rotational axis L351 is simply called axis L351. Similarly, "L381" is the rotational axis when the coupling member 380 is rotated, and in the following description, the rotational axis L381 is simply called axis L381.

[00378] The coupling member 380 is provided within the drive side flange 350 together with the pressing member 370 and the slider 360. By the structure that will be described next, the slider 360 does not move in the direction of the axis L351 relative to the drive side flange 350, to retaining pin 391 and retaining pin 392.

[00379] In this embodiment, the pressing member 370 is a spring (compression coil spring) as an elastic member. As shown in part (b) of Figure 66 and part (c) of Figure 66, an end portion 370a of the pressing member 370 contacts a spring contact portion 380h1 of the coupling member 380, and the other end portion 370b contacts a spring contact portion 360b of the slider 360. The pressing member 370 is compressed between the coupling member 380 and the slider 360 to urge the coupling member 380 to the drive side (arrow X9) by the pressing force F370 thereof. The pressing member may be a flat spring, a torsion spring, rubber, sponge or the like or another which can produce an elastic force. However, as will be described below, the coupling member 380 is movable in the direction parallel with the axis L351 of the drive side flange 350, and therefore, one type of pressing member 370 has a certain degree of travel. Therefore, a coil spring or similar capable of having a stroke is preferable.

[00380] Referring to Figures 68 and 69, the configuration of coupling member 380 will be described.

[00381] As shown in Figures 68 and 69, the coupling member 380 mainly comprises four portions. A first portion is a driven portion 380a as an end portion (free end portion) engageable with the main assembly drive shaft 300 which will be described next for receiving rotational force from the drive transmission pin 302 which will be described in followed and which is a rotational force transmitting portion (main mounting side rotational force transmitting portion) provided on the main mounting drive shaft 300. A second portion is a drive portion 380b engaged with the drive side flange 350 to transmit the rotational drive force to the drive side flange 350. A third portion is an interconnecting portion 380c connecting the driven portion 380a and the drive portion 380b to each other. A fourth portion is an engagement portion 380d as the other end portion supported by the slider 360 such that the coupling member 380 is movable in the direction of the rotational axis L381. In this embodiment, the other end portion of the coupling member 380 is an engagement portion 380d, but may be the drive portion 380b.

[00382] A direction perpendicular to the L381 axis is an L382 axis, and a direction perpendicular to the L381 axis and the L382 axis is an L383 axis.

[00383] As shown in Figure 68, the driven portion 380a is provided with a drive shaft insertion opening 380m as a recess expanding relative to the rotational axis L381 of the coupling member 380. The opening 380m is provided by a tapered drive bearing 380f expanding as approaching to main assembly drive shaft 300.

[00384] On the circumference of the end surface thereof is provided with transmission projections 380f1 and 380f2 projecting from the drive bearing surface 380f. The outer peripheral surface of the driven portion 380a including two transmission projections 380f1 and 380f2 is provided with a substantially spherical main mounting contact portion 380i. When the coupling member 380 is engaged with the main assembly drive shaft 300, and when the coupling member 380 is disengaged from the main assembly drive shaft 300, the main assembly contact portion 380i contacts the free end portion 300b and the drive transmission pin 302 of the main assembly drive shaft 300.

[00385] Between the transmission projections 380f1 and 380f2, drive receiving waiting portions 380k1 and 380k2 are provided. A clearance between the two drive receiving projections 380f1 and 380f2 is greater than an outer diameter of the drive transmission pin so that the drive transmission pin 302 of the main assembly drive shaft 300 of the main assembly A of the apparatus which will be described below can be received by the slack portion. The slack portions are designated 380k1 and 380k2.

[00386] At positions downstream of the transmission projection 380f1 and 380f2 with respect to the clockwise direction, drive force receiving surfaces (rotational force receiving portions) 380e1 and 380e2 are provided, for which the transmission pin 302 as the transmitting portion of rotational force provided on the main assembly drive shaft 300 limits to transmit the rotational force. That is, the drive force receiving surfaces 380e1 and 380e2 intersect with the direction of rotational movement of the coupling member 380 so that they are rotated about the axis L381 and are pushed by the side surfaces of the drive transmission pin 302 of the drive shaft. main assembly drive 300.

[00387] In order to stabilize the transmission torque transmitted to the coupling member 380, it is preferred that the drive force receiving surfaces 380e1 and 380e2 are arranged on the same circumference extending about the axis L381. By doing so, a drive transmission radius is constant, and therefore, the transmitted torque is stabilized. It is preferred that the position of the coupling member 380 is stabilized as much as possible by balancing the forces received by the transmission projections 380f1 and 380f2. For this purpose, they are arranged diametrically opposite each other in this embodiment. Then, the forces received by the coupling member 380 form a force couple. Therefore, the coupling member 380 can continue rotational movement by receiving only the couple of forces without controlling the position of the rotational axis of the coupling.

[00388] When the interconnecting portion 380c is sectioned in a plane perpendicular to the axis L381, at least one cross-section of the interconnecting portion 380c has a maximum rotational radius that is less than a distance between the rotational axis L381 of the coupling member 380 and the transmission projections 380f1 and 380f2 (drive force receiving surfaces 3890e1 and 380e2). In other words, a predetermined section of the interconnect portion 380c perpendicular to the rotational axis L2 of the coupling member 380 has a maximum rotational radius that is less than the distance between the transmission projections 380f1 and 380f2 (drive force receiving surfaces 3890e1 and 380e2) and the L2 rotational axis. Furthermore, in other words, the interconnecting portion 380c has a diameter that is smaller than the distance between the transmission projection 380f1 (drive force receiving surface 380e1) and the transmission projection 380f2 (drive force receiving surface 380e2). .

[00389] As shown in Figure 69, projections 380b1 and 380b2 project along the L382 axis of the drive portion 380b and one is provided diametrically opposite the other with respect to the L381 axis. Projections 380b1 and 380b2 have the same configurations, and therefore the configuration of projection 380b1 will be described.

[00390] As shown in part (a) of Figure 69, projection 380b1 has a symmetrical configuration with respect to the L381 axis when viewed in the direction of the L382 axis, more particularly it has a pentagonal configuration. The portion of the projection 380b1 having two surfaces inclined by an angle 03 relative to the L381 axis when viewed in the direction of the L382 axis is called a portion to be guided 380j1 and a portion to be guided 380j2 as an inclined portion or contact portion.

[00391] The portion connecting the portion to be guided 380j1 and the portion to be guided 380j2 to each other is called the round configuration portion 380t1. Furthermore, projection surfaces 380b1 perpendicular to the L383 axis are called a projection end portion 380n1 and a projection end portion 380n2. The surface of the projection 380b1 perpendicular to the L182 axis is called a rotational force transmitting portion 380g1.

[00392] As shown in part (b) of Figure 69, portions constituting projection 380b2 are called portion to be guided 380j3, portion to be guided 380j4, round configuration portion 380t2, projection end portion 380n3, end portion of projection 380n4 and rotational force transmitting portion 380g2, respectively.

[00393] The engagement portion 380d has a cylindrical portion having a central axis aligned with the axis L381 and is fitted to a cylindrical portion 360a of the slider 360 (part (b) of Figure 66 and part (c) of Figure 66) with almost no opening and is supported by this means (detail will be described next). As shown in Figure 68, the spring mounting portion 380h is provided on a non-drive side end portion of the engagement portion 380d. The spring mounting portion 380h is provided with a spring contact portion 380h1 contacting an end portion 370a of the pressing member 370, and the spring contact portion 380h1 is substantially perpendicular to the L381 axis of the coupling member 380.

[00394] Referring to Figure 70, the configuration of the drive side flange 350 will be described.

[00395] As shown in Figure 70, the drive side flange 350 is provided with the engagement support portion 350b engaging with the inner surface 310b of the photosensitive drum 10, a gear portion 350c, a support portion 350a rotatably supported. by drum bearing 330 and so on.

[00396] A direction perpendicular to the L351 axis is a L352 axis, and a direction perpendicular to the L351 axis and the L352 axis is an L353 axis.

[00397] The interior of the drive side flange 350 is hollow, and is called hollow portion 350f. The hollow portion 350f includes a flat surface inner wall portion 350h1, a flat surface inner wall portion 350h2, a cylindrical inner wall portion 350r1, a cylindrical inner wall portion 350r2, a recess 350m1 and a recess 350m2.

[00398] The flat surface inner wall portion 350h1 and the flat surface inner wall portion 350h2 have surfaces perpendicular to the L352 axis and are diametrically opposite each other to the L351 axis. The cylindrical inner wall portion 350r1 and the cylindrical inner wall portion 350r2 have cylindrical configurations having a central axis that is common with the L351 axis, and arranged at positions diametrically opposite to each other with respect to the L351 axis. The recess 350m1 and the recess 350m2 are formed with the flat surface inner wall portion 350h1 and the flat surface inner wall portion 350h2, respectively, and are further away from the L351 axis along the L352 axis. The 350m1 recess and the 350m2 recess have the same configuration and are provided with diametrically opposite positions with respect to the L351 axis, and therefore, the following description will be made in relation to the 350m1 recess only.

[00399] Recess 350m1 has a symmetrical configuration with respect to axis L351 when viewed in the direction of axis L352. As shown in part (c) of Figure 70, the portion having surfaces inclined by angle 03 relative to axis L351 when viewed in the direction of axis L352 is a guide portion 350j1 and a guide portion 350j2, similarly to the portion to be guided 380j1 - the portion to be guided 380j4. The portion connecting the guide portion 350j1 and the guide portion 350j2 is a round configuration portion 350t1. Recess surfaces 350m1 perpendicular to axis L353 are a recess end portion 350n1 and a recess end portion 350n2. A rotational force receiving portion 350g1 having a flat surface perpendicular to the axis L352 is provided, with a step relative to the flat surface inner wall portion 350h1. Furthermore, the rotational force receiving portion 350g1 is provided with the sliding groove 350s1. As will be described next, the sliding groove 350s1 includes a through hole supporting the retaining pin 391 and the retaining pin 392, and has a rectangular shape with the long side thereof being along axis L353, when viewed in the direction of axis L352.

[00400] The parts constituting the recess 350m2 include a rotational force receiving portion 350g2, a guide portion 350j3, a guide portion 350j4, R, a guide portion 350j4, a round configuration portion 350t2, a sliding groove 350s4 , a recess end portion 350n3 and a recess end portion 350n4.

[00401] A drive side end portion of the hollow portion 350f is an opening 350e.

[00402] As shown in Figures 66 and 67 and part (d) of Figure 70, the coupling member 380 is provided in the hollow portion 350f of the drive side flange 350 such that the axis L382 is parallel to the axis L352. The rotational force transmitting portions 380g1 and 380g2 and the rotational force receiving portions 350g1 and 350g2 are engaged with each other respectively with almost no opening in the direction of axis L382. Therefore, the movement of the coupling member 380 relative to the drive side flange 350 in the direction of the axis L382 is limited (part (b) of Figure 66, part (d) of Figure 70). As shown in part (c) of Figure 66, when the coupling member 380 is placed in the hollow portion 350f such that the shaft L381 and the shaft L351 are substantially coaxial with each other, an opening D is provided between the drive portion 380b and the cylindrical inner wall portions 350r1 and 350r2. Furthermore, as shown in part (c) of Figure 70, openings E1 are provided between the projection end portion 380n1 and the recess end portion 350n1 and between the projection end portion 380n2 and the recess end portion. 350n1, respectively, in the direction of axis L353. Therefore, the coupling member 380 is movable in the direction of the axis L383 relative to the drive side flange 350. Here, the projection 380b1 and the recess 350m1 are so formed that the opening E1 is larger than the opening D.

[00403] Referring to Figures 66 and 67 and 71, the description will be made about the configurations of the cursor 360 as the retention member (movable member), the retention pin 391 and the retention pin 392.

[00404] As shown in Figures 66 and 67, the slider 360 is provided with the cylindrical portion 360a, a contact portion 360b contacted by the other end portion 370b of the pressing member 370, a through hole 360c1 - a through hole 360c4. The central axis of the cylindrical portion 360a is an axis L361.

[00405] The cylindrical portion 360a is engaged with the engagement portion 38d of the coupling member 380 with almost no opening to support it. Therefore, the coupling member 380 is movable in the direction of the L381 axis while maintaining the significant coaxial character between the L381 axis and the L361 axis.

[00406] On the other hand, as shown in part (b) of Figure 66, part (c) of Figure 67 and part (c) of Figure 70, the cylindrical retaining pin 391 and the retaining pin 392 are inserted into the hole through hole 360c1 - in the through hole 360c4 of the slider 360 such that the central axes are parallel with the axis L352. The retaining pin 391 and the retaining pin 392 are supported by the sliding groove 350s1 and the sliding groove 350s4 of the drive side flange 350, so that the slider 360 and the drive side flange 350 are connected to each other .

[00407] As shown in part (c) of Figure 66 and part (a) of Figure 71, the retaining pin 391 and the retaining pin 392 are juxtaposed along axis L353. The diameters of the retaining pin 391 and the retaining pin 392 are slightly smaller than the width of the sliding groove 350s1 and the sliding groove 350s4 measured in the direction of axis L351. Therefore, the 360 cursor maintains parallelism between the L361 axis and the L351 axis. Furthermore, the slider 360 is prevented from movement relative to the drive side flange 350 in the direction of axis L351. In other words, the cursor 360 is movable in the direction substantially perpendicular to the L351 axis.

[00408] As shown in part (b) of Figure 66 and part (b) of Figure 71, the engagement support portion 350b of the drive side flange 350 (part (a) of Figure 71) is engaged and secured with an opening 310a2 of the photosensitive drum 310. Therefore, the retaining pin 391 and the retaining pin 392 are prevented from disengaging in the direction of the axis L352. Furthermore, a length G1 of the retaining pin 391 and the retaining pin 392 is selected to be sufficiently greater than a distance G2 between the rotational force transmitting portion 350g1 and the rotational force transmitting portion 350g2. By doing so, the retaining pin 391 and the retaining pin 392 are prevented from disengaging from the sliding groove 350s1 and the sliding groove 350s4.

[00409] Furthermore, between the retaining pin 391 and an end portion 350s2 of the sliding groove 350s1 and between the retaining pin 392 and the other end portion 350s3 of the sliding groove 350s1, an opening E2 greater than opening D is provided (part (c) of Figure 66 and part (a) of Figure 71). Similar openings E2 are provided between the retaining pin 391 and an end portion 350s5 of the sliding groove 350s4 and between the retaining pin 392 and the other end portion 350s6 of the sliding groove 350s4 (part (a) of Figure 71). . Additionally, lubricant (not shown) is applied to through hole 360c1 - through hole 360c4, sliding groove 350s1 and sliding groove 350s4. Therefore, the slider 360 is movable smoothly relative to the drive side flange 350 in the direction of axis L353.

[00410] As shown in part (c) of Figure 70, the guide portion 350j1 and the guide portion 350j2 as the inclined portion or contact portion and the portion to be guided 380j1 and the portion to be guided 380j2 as the portion inclined or contact portion are contactable with each other. It will suffice if at least one of the guiding portion 350j1 or the portion to be guided 380j1 is inclined, and the other may be inclined accordingly. By contact between them, the coupling member 380 is prevented from disengaging from the opening 350 and the drive side flange 350. By the pressing member 370, the coupling member 380 is driven towards the drive side such that the portion to be guided 380j1 and the portion to be guided 380j2 contacts the guiding portion 350j1 and the guiding portion 350j2. The same applies to the relationship between the guide portion 350j3, the guide portion 350j4 and the portion to be guided 380j3, the portion to be guided 380j4.

[00411] As previously described, projections 380b1 and 380b2 have symmetrical configurations with respect to the L381 axis when viewed in the direction of the L382 axis. Recess 350m1 and recess 350m2 have symmetrical configurations with respect to axis L351 when viewed in the direction of axis L352. Therefore, the coupling member 380 is driven to the driving side by the pressing member 370, so that the portion to be guided 380j1 - the portion to be guided 380j4 contact the guide portion 350j1 and the guide portion 350j4, and therefore , the L381 axis and the L351 axis are substantially coaxial with each other.

[00412] With the structures described above, the coupling member 380 maintains the state relative to the drive side flange 350 by the slider 360 such that the axis L381 and the axis L351 are parallel to each other. The coupling member 380 is movable relative to the drive side flange 350 in the directions of axis L381 and axis L383. The coupling member 380 is prevented from moving relative to the drive side flange 350 in the direction of the axis L382. The coupling member 380 is impelled towards the drive side (arrow direction yes.

[00413] In this embodiment, the drive side flange 350, the coupling member 380 and the slider 360 are made of resin material such as polyacetal, polycarbonate or the like. Retaining pins 391, 392 are made of metal such as carbon steel, stainless steel or the like. However, depending on the load torque to rotate the photosensitive drum 310, the part materials can be made of metal or resin material.

[00414] In this embodiment, the gear portion 350c functions to transmit the rotational force received by the coupling member 380 from the main mounting side engagement portion 300 to the developing roller 313, and is a helical gear or toothed gear integrally molded with the drive side flange 350. The developing roller 313 may be rotated not by the drive side flange 350. In such a case, the gear portion 350c may be omitted.

[00415] Referring to Figures 67 and part (d) Figure 70, an assembly process of the drive side flange unit U32 will be described. As shown in part (d) of Figure 70, the coupling member 380 is inserted into the space portion 350f of the drive side flange 350. At this time, as previously described, the stages of the coupling member 380 and the side flange drive shaft 350 are adjusted such that the axis L382 and the axis L352 are parallel to each other. Next, as shown in Figure 67, the pressing member 370 is assembled. The pressing member 370 is limited in position in the radial direction by an axis portion 380h2 of the coupling member 380 and an axis portion 360d of the slider 360. The pressing member 370 may be mounted in advance of either or both of the axis portion. 380h2 and the axis portion 360d. At this time, the pressing member 370 is press-fit relative to the shaft portion 380h2 (or shaft portion 360d) such that the pressing member 370 does not dislodge, whereby the assembly operability is improved. Thereafter, the slider 360 is inserted into the space portion 350f so that the engagement portion 380d is fitted into the cylindrical portion 360a. As shown in part (c) of Figure 67 and part (d) of Figure 67, retaining pin 391 and retaining pin 392 are inserted from sliding groove 350s1 through through hole 360c1 - through hole 360c4 into sliding groove 350s4 . (5) Drum bearing:

[00416] Referring to Figure 72, drum bearing 325 will be described. Part (a) of Figure 72 is a perspective view when viewed from the drive shaft, and part (b) of Figure 72 is a perspective view when viewed from the photosensitive drum side.

[00417] Drum bearing 325 functions to position the photosensitive drum 310 in place in the drum frame 321 and to position the drum unit U10 relative to the main assembly A of the apparatus. Furthermore, it also functions to retain the coupling member 380 in the position capable of transmitting the driving force to the photosensitive drum 310.

[00418] Detailed description will be made. As named in Figure 72, an engagement portion 325d for positioning the photosensitive drum 310 and for being positioned relative to the drum frame 321 is substantially coaxial with the outer periphery portion 325c positioned relative to the main assembly A of the apparatus. The engagement portion 325d and the outer periphery portion 325c are annular, and the coupling member 380 described above is placed in a space portion 325b thereof.

[00419] Adjacent to a center portion of the engagement portion 325d/outer periphery portion 325c of the space portion 325b with respect to the axial direction, a boundary surface 325e for positioning the photosensitive drum unit U31 in the axial direction is provided. Furthermore, the drum bearing 325 has a fixed surface 325f for fixing relative to the drum frame 321 and holes 325g1 and 325g2 for being penetrated by fixing screws. As will be described below, a guide portion 325a is integrally provided for guiding the assembly and disassembly of the cartridge B relative to the main assembly A of the apparatus. (6) Process cartridge assembly guide and a positioning portion relative to the main assembly:

[00420] As shown in Figures 59 and 60, the outer periphery 325a of the outer end portion of the drum bearing 325 functions as a cartridge guide 340R1, and the outer periphery 326a of the outer end portion of the drum shaft 326 functions as a 340L1 cartridge guide.

[00421] An end portion side (drive side) of the photosensitive drum unit U31 with respect to the longitudinal direction is provided with a cartridge guide 340R2 substantially above the cartridge guide 340R1. The other end portion thereof (non-drive side) is provided with a cartridge guide 340L2 above the cartridge guide 340L1.

[00422] In this embodiment, the cartridge guides 340R1, 340R2 are formed integrally with the drum frame 321. However, the cartridge guides 340R1, 340R2 may not be integral. (7) Process cartridge assembly operation:

[00423] Referring to Figure 73, the operation of assembling cartridge B to the main assembly A of the apparatus will be described. Figure 73 illustrates the assembly process, and are sectional views taken along a line S9 - S9 of Figure 62.

[00424] As shown in part (a) of Figure 73, the user opens the cartridge door 309 provided in the main assembly A of the apparatus. Then, cartridge B is mounted to the cartridge mounting means 330 of the main assembly A of the apparatus.

[00425] When cartridge B is mounted to the main assembly A of the apparatus, the cartridge guides 340R1, 340R2 are aligned with the main assembly guides 330R1, 330R2 on the drive side, as shown in part (b) of Figure 73. Additionally, on the non-drive side, cartridge guides 340L1, 340L2 (Figure 60) are guided by main assembly guides 330L1, 330L2 (Figure 63).

[00426] Then, cartridge B is inserted in the direction of arrow X4, whereby cartridge B is received at a predetermined position by engaging the coupling 380 of cartridge B with the main assembly drive shaft 300 of main assembly A. Either That is, as shown in part (c) of Figure 73, the cartridge guide 340R1 contacts the positioning portion 330R1a of the main mounting guide 330R1, and the cartridge guide 340R2 contacts the positioning portion 330R2a of the main mounting guide 330R2.

[00427] Because of the substantially symmetrical configurations, the cartridge guide 340L1 contacts the positioning portion 330L1a of the main mounting guide 330L1 (Figure 63), and the cartridge guide 340L2 contacts the positioning portion 330L2a of the main mounting guide 330L2 , although not shown in the drawing. In this manner, the cartridge B is detachably mounted to the cartridge-accommodating portion 330a by the mounting means 330. By the cartridge B being mounted to the cartridge-mounting portion 330a, the imaging operation is enabled. The cartridge accommodation portion 330a is a chamber to be occupied by the cartridge B mounted to the main assembly A of the apparatus by the mounting means 330, as previously described.

[00428] When cartridge B is accommodated in the predetermined position described above, the pressure receiving portion 340R1b (Figure 59) of cartridge B is clamped by the pressing spring 388R shown in Figures 62, 63 and 73. Furthermore, the pressure receiving portion pressure 340L1b (Figure 60) of process cartridge B is tightened by pressing spring 388L. Therefore, cartridge B (photosensitive drum 310) is positioned correctly relative to a transfer roller, optical medium, and so on of the main assembly A.

[00429] Referring to Figure 74, coupling member 380 will be described. Part (a1) of Figure 74 is an illustration of the state in which the axis L381 of the coupling member 380 and the axis L351 of the drive side flange 350 are aligned with each other, and the guide portion 350j1 - the guide portion 350j4 contact the portion to be guided 380j1 and the portion to be guided 380j4, respectively. Part (a2) of Figure 74 is an illustration of the state in which the coupling member 380 has moved relative to the drive side flange 350 in the direction indicated by an arrow X51, that is, the direction parallel with the axis L383. Part (a3) of Figure 74 is an illustration of the state in which the coupling member 380 has moved along axis L351 to the non-drive side (arrow direction guide 350j4 and the portion to be guided 380j1 - the portion to be guided 380j4 contact each other, respectively. Part (b1) of Figure 74 to part (b3) of Figure 74 are schematic sectional views taken along lines SL383 parallel with the L383 axis in part (a1) of Figure 74 and part (a3) of Figure 74. In part (a1) of Figure 74. b1) of Figure 74 to part (b3) of Figure 74, the coupling member 380 is depicted in the unsectioned state for better illustration, and the guide portion 350j3 and the guide portion 350j4 of the drive side flange 350 and the sliding groove 350s4 are described by dashed lines.

[00430] First, as shown in part (b1) of Figure 74, as for the coupling member 380, the guide portion 350j3 and the guide portion 350j4 contact the portion to be guided 380j3 and the portion to be guided 380j4, by the pressing force F370 of the pressing member 370, such that the axis L381 and the axis L351 are substantially coaxial with each other. At this time, the transmission projections 380f1, 380f2 of the coupling member 380 are in the most projected state relative to the drive side flange 350.

[00431] As shown in part (a2) of Figure 74, the coupling member 380 is moved relative to the drive side flange 350 in the direction of arrow X51 parallel with the axis L383 by a distance p3. Then, as shown in part (b2) of Figure 74, the coupling member 180 moves along the guide portion 350j4 (arrow X61) against the pressing force F370 of the pressing member 370 while maintaining contact between the portion to be guided 380j4 and the guide portion 350j4 of the drive side flange 350. At this time, the axis L381 of the coupling member 380 maintains parallelism with the axis L351. Therefore, the coupling member 380 is movable in the direction of the arrow be equal to opening D. On the one hand, the cursor 360 is movable only in the direction of the axis L383 by the function of the pin 391 and the retaining pin 392. Therefore, the cursor 360 moves in the direction of the arrow X51 integrally with the pin retaining pin 391 and retaining pin 392 in interrelationship with the movement of the coupling member 380 in the direction of arrow X61.

[00432] When the coupling member 380 is moved in the direction opposite to that of the arrow X51, the coupling member 380 moves along the guide portion 350j3, similarly.

[00433] On the other hand, as shown in part (b3) of Figure 74, when the coupling member 380 is moved in the direction of arrow X8, the coupling member 380 moves in the direction of arrow X8 against the pressing force F370 of the pressing member 370 in the state that the engaging portion 380d is supported by the cylindrical portion 360a of the slider 360. At this time, openings are provided between the portion to be guided 380j3 and the portion to be guided 380j4 of the coupling member 380 and the portion of guide portion 350j3 and the guide portion 350j4 of the drive side flange 350, respectively. That is, the coupling member 380 is movable for a predetermined distance from the position at which the coupling member 380 is projected most relative to the drive side flange 350 as shown in part (b1) of Figure 74 to the position at which the coupling member 380 is retracted as shown in part (b3) of Figure 74.

[00434] As described in the foregoing, the coupling member 380 is movable relative to the drive side flange 350 in the directions of axis L381 and axis L383. Furthermore, by the contact between the guide portion 350j1 - the portion to be guided 380j1 and the contact between the guide portion 350j4 and the portion to be guided 380j4, the coupling member 180 is movable relative to the drive side flange 350 in the direction of the L381 axis in interrelation with the movement in the direction of the L383 axis. (9) Coupling assembly and drive transmission operation:

[00435] As previously described, the coupling member 380 is engaged with the main assembly drive shaft 300 simultaneously when or immediately before the cartridge B is fixed in the predetermined position of the main assembly A of the apparatus. Referring to Figure 75 through Figure 78, the operation of engaging the coupling member 380 will be described. Figure 75 is a perspective view of the main assembly drive shaft and main parts of the cartridge drive side. Figure 76 is a longitudinal sectional view of the main assembly drive shaft, the process cartridge coupling, and a drum shaft, as viewed from the bottom of the main assembly. Figure 77 is a longitudinal sectional view showing different phases relative to the phases shown in Figure 76 of the main assembly drive shaft, the process cartridge coupling and drum shaft, when viewed from the bottom of the main assembly. In the following description, "engagement" means the state in which the shaft L351 and the shaft L301 are substantially coaxial with each other, and drive transmission is possible from the main mounting side engagement portion 300 to the coupling member 380.

[00436] As shown in part (a) of Figure 75, the description will be made about the case that the axis L383 of the coupling member 380 and the mounting direction of the cartridge B (arrow X1) are parallel to each other.

[00437] As shown in Figure 75, the mounting direction of cartridge B is substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 310, and cartridge B moves along the direction (arrow X1) substantially perpendicular to the axis L351 of the drive side 350 to be mounted to the main assembly A of the apparatus. As shown in part (b1) of Figure 75 and part (a) of Figure 76, when the cartridge B begins to be mounted to the main assembly A of the apparatus, the transmission projections 380f1 and 380f2 of the coupling member 380 are projected further toward the drive side flange 350 by the pressing force F370 of the pressing member 370. This state is the initial state of the assembly. At this time, the position of the coupling member 380 is the first position (designed position). At this time, the rotational axis L381 of the coupling member 380 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More particularly, the rotational axis L381 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially aligned with each other. The rotational axis L381 of the coupling member 380 is substantially parallel to the axis L351 of the drive side flange 350. More particularly, the rotational axis L381 and the rotational axis L351 are substantially aligned with each other.

[00438] When the cartridge B is moved in the direction of arrow main assembly A of the device. As shown in part (b1) of Figure 75 to part (a) of Figure 76, the main mounting contact portion 380i receives the force F1 (retraction force) from the free end portion 300b. The force F1 is directed substantially toward the center of the substantially spherical surface constituting the main mounting contact portion 380i, and is therefore inclined by an angle 07 that is less than a complementary angle 031 of the angle 03 relative to the axis L383. Therefore, when the coupling member 380 receives the force F1, it moves in the direction of the arrow the guide portion 350j1 of the drive side flange 350.

[00439] As shown in part (b2) of Figure 75 and part (b) of Figure 76, cartridge B is further moved in the direction of arrow X1. Then, the drive portion 380b of the coupling member 380 contacts the cylindrical inner wall portion 350r1 of the drive side flange 350 so that the movement of the coupling member 380 relative to the drive side flange 350 in the direction of arrow X61 be limited. At this time, a quantity of the movement of the coupling member 380 from the initial state of the assembly in the direction of axis L381 is the movement distance N10 (part (b) of Figure 76). The movement distance N10 is determined by the opening D (part (c) of Figure 66) and the angle 03 (Figure 70) of the guide portion 350j1 - guide portion 350j4 relative to the axis L381.

[00440] In the state shown in part (b) of Figure 76, the coupling member 380 has moved by the movement distance N10 in the direction of arrow X8 from the initial state of the assembly. Then, the angle 07 formed between the direction of the force F1 and the axis L383 increases when compared with that in the initial state of the assembly, because the force F1 is directed substantially to the center of the spherical surface constituting the main assembly contact portion 380i. With this, a force of component F1a of the force F1 in the direction of the arrow X8 increases when compared to that of the initial state of the assembly. By the force of component F1a, the coupling member 380 further moves in the direction of arrow X8 against the pressing force F370 of the pressing member 370. By the movement of the coupling member 380 in the direction of arrow X8, the coupling member 380 is able to pass through the free end portion 300b of the main assembly drive shaft 300. The position of the coupling member 380 shown in part (b2) of Figure 76 is a second position (retracted position). At this time, the rotational axis L381 of the coupling member 380 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More specifically, there is an opening between the rotational axis L381 and the rotational axis L1 (the rotational axis L381 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially out of alignment). The rotational axis L381 of the coupling member 380 is substantially parallel to the axis L351 of the drive side flange 350. More specifically, at this time, there is an opening between the rotational axis L381 and the rotational axis L351 (the rotational axis L381 and the axis rotational L1 are substantially out of alignment). In the second position (retracted position), the coupling member 380 is displaced (moved/retracted) towards the photosensitive drum 10 (the other side of end portion of the photosensitive drum 10 in the longitudinal direction), as compared to that in the first position ( projected position).

[00441] As shown in part (b4) of Figure 75, when the cartridge B has been moved to the fully assembled position, the L301 shaft of the main assembly drive shaft 300 and the L351 shaft of the drive side flange 350 are substantially coaxial each other by the function of the positioning means for positioning the cartridge B to the main assembly A of the apparatus, as will be described below. At this time, the coupling member 380 is moved in the direction indicated by the arrow with shaft L351 of drive side flange 350.

[00442] As shown in Figure 77, in the state in which the axis L301 of the main assembly drive shaft 300 and the axis L381 of the coupling member 380 are aligned with each other, the drive bearing surface 380f constituting the shape portion taper of the coupling member 380 contacts a free end portion 380b of the main assembly drive shaft 300. At this time, the transmission projections 380f1, 380f2 of the coupling member 380 and the drive transmission pin 302 of the drive shaft main mounting brackets 300 are superimposed on each other in the direction of axis L301. At this time, the drive transmit pin 302 is placed in the drive receiving standby portions 380k1, 380k2. The rotational force receiving portions 380e1, 380e2 disposed downstream of the transmission projections 380f1, 380f2 with respect to the clockwise direction are opposite the drive transmission pin 302. That is, the coupling member 380 and the main assembly drive shaft 300 are engaged with each other to enable rotation of the coupling member 380. The position of the coupling member 380 at this time is substantially the same as the first position described above (projected position).

[00443] When the cartridge B is fixed in the fully assembled position, the transmission projections 380f1, 380f2 and the drive transmission pin 302 can be superimposed on each other when viewed in the direction of the L301 axis, depending on the phase of the drive axis. main assembly 300 with respect to the direction of rotational movement. In such a case, the free end portion 300b of the main assembly drive shaft 300 cannot contact the drive bearing surface 380f of the coupling member 380. In such a case, by the main assembly drive shaft 300 being rotated by a drive source which will be described next, the transmission projections 380f1, 380f2 become non-overlapping with the drive transmission pin 302 when viewed in the direction of axis L301. And, by the pressing force F370 of the pressing member 370, the free end portion 300b of the main assembly drive shaft 300 is able to contact the drive bearing surface 380f of the coupling member 380 (the coupling member 380 reaches the first position (projected position)). Thus, the main assembly drive shaft 300 is able to engage with the coupling member 380 while being rotated by the drive source, and therefore, the coupling member 380 begins to rotate.

[00444] Referring to Figure 78, the drive transmission operation when activating the photosensitive drum 310 will be described. By the rotational force received from the main assembly drive source A of the apparatus, the main assembly drive shaft 300 rotates in the direction indicated by X10 in Figure, together with the drum drive gear 301. The integral drive transmission pin 302 with the main assembly drive shaft 300 contacts the rotational force receiving portions 380e1, 380e2 of the coupling member 380 to rotate the coupling member 380. As previously described, the rotational force transmitting portion 380g1, the rotational force transmitting portion 380g2 and the rotational force receiving portion 350g1 (part (a) of Figure 70), the rotational force receiving portion 350g2 (part (b) of Figure 70) are engaged almost without any opening in the direction of axis L382 (part (c ) of Figure 70), and therefore, they maintain the substantially parallel state. Therefore, the coupling member 380 can transmit rotation about the axis L381 to the drive side flange 350. Therefore, the rotation of the coupling member 380 is transmitted to the drive side flange 350 by the rotational force transmitting portion 380g1, by the rotational force transmitting portion 380g2 and by the rotational force receiving portion 350g1, by the rotational force receiving portion 350g2.

[00445] As shown in part (a) of Figure 79, the description will be made about the case that the axis L383 of the coupling member 380 is perpendicular to the mounting direction of the cartridge B (arrow X1).

[00446] As shown in part (b1) of Figure 79, when the cartridge B is moved in the direction of arrow X1, the main mounting contact portion 380i of the coupling member 380 contacts the free end portion 300b of the drive shaft main mounting bracket 300 provided in the main assembly A of the apparatus, similarly to the case that the L383 axis of the coupling member 380 is parallel with the mounting direction of the cartridge B. At this time, the main mounting contact portion 380i receives the force F2 of the free end portion 300b by the cartridge assembly B. The force F2 is directed to the center of the substantially spherical surface constituting the main mounting contact portion 380i, and is therefore inclined by the angle θ1 relative to the axis L382, and a force of component F2a of force F2 is produced as a component along the direction of arrow X8 in the direction of axis L381. Therefore, when the cartridge B is moved further in the direction of arrow X1, the coupling member 380 moves in the direction of arrow of Figure 79. By movement of the coupling member 380 in the direction of arrow X8, the coupling member 380 is able to pass through the free end portion 300b of the main assembly drive shaft 300. of main assembly contact 380i and the axis L381 is selected such that the coupling member 380 can move in the direction of the arrow X8 by the force of component F2a against the pressing force F370 of the pressing member 370. Thereafter, similarly to the case of part (b3) of Figure 78 and part (b4) of Figure 78, the cartridge B can be moved to the complete assembled position while maintaining the coupling member 380 in the space portion 350f of the drive side flange 350.

[00447] The preceding description was made with respect to the case in which the X1 mounting direction of cartridge B is parallel with or perpendicular to the L183 axis. However, also when the direction is different from the mounting direction described above, the coupling member 380 moves in the direction of arrow X8 so that the coupling member 380 can pass through the free end portion 300b of the main mounting drive shaft. 300. The coupling member 380 is moved by the force F1 along the guide portion 350j1 - the guide portion 350j4 in the direction indicated by the arrow X8, or by the force of component F1a or the force of component F2a of the force F1 or the force F2 in arrow direction X8.

[00448] With the structure described above, the cartridge B can be mounted to the main assembly A of the apparatus, regardless of the phases of the coupling member 380 and the drive transmission pin 302 relative to the direction of rotational movement in terms of the mounting direction from cartridge B to the main assembly A of the device.

[00449] As described in the foregoing, with the structure of this embodiment, the coupling member 380 can engage with the main assembly drive shaft 300 with a simple structure without using complicated structures of the main assembly A of the apparatus and/or the cartridge B .

[00450] As shown in part (b2) of Figure 75, in this embodiment, the coupling member 380 moves in the direction of arrow X8 after the drive portion 380b contacts the cylindrical inner wall portion 350r1. However, the coupling member 380 may pass through the free end portion 300b of the main assembly drive shaft 300 when the drive portion 380b contacts the cylindrical inner wall portion 350r1. To provide such a structure, as shown in part (a1) of Figure 18 and part (a2) of Figure 80, for example, the slope θ3 is reduced, or the opening D is increased, whereby the movement distance N10 is increased. . Or, as shown in part (b1) of Figure 80 and part (b2) of Figure 80, the quantity Q of the projection of the transmission projections 380f1, 380f2 of the opening 350 and the drive side flange 350 to the drive side may be reduced. With such a structure, only by movement along the guide portion 350j1 - guide portion 350j4, the transmission projections 380f1, 380f2 of the coupling member 380 move beyond the free end portion 300b in the direction of arrow X8, so that can pass through the free end portion 300b. Therefore, it is unnecessary to produce the component force F1a of the force F1 in the direction of arrow X8, and the coupling member 380 and the main assembly drive shaft 300 can be engaged with each other with a simpler structure. (10) Coupling disengagement operation and cartridge removal operation:

[00451] Referring to Figure 81 through Figure 84, the operation of disengaging the coupling member 380 from the main assembly drive shaft 300 when the cartridge B is removed from the main assembly A of the apparatus will be described. Part (a) of Figure 81 and part (a) of Figure 84 show the disassembly direction of cartridge B and section S10, and section S11. Parts (b1) - (b4) of Figure 81 and parts (a) - (b) of Figure 83 are schematic sectional views illustrating disengagement of coupling member 380 from main assembly drive shaft 300 in sections S of part (a ) of Figure 81. Parts (b1) - (b4) of Figure 84 show sections taken along a line S11 of part (a) of Figure 84 and illustrate disengagement of the coupling member 380 from the main assembly drive shaft 300 Figure 82 is an enlarged view of the round portions of the drive side flange unit U32 and the main assembly drive shaft 300 shown in part (b3) of Figure 81. In part (b1) of Figure 81 and part ( b2) of Figure 81, coupling member 380 is not sectioned. In Figure 81 - Figure 84, the guide portion 350j1 and the guide portion 350j2 of the drive side flange 350 are depicted by dashed lines. In part (b3) of Figure 81, part (b4) of Figure 81, Figure 82 - Figure 83, the transmission projection 380f2 existing in front of the section plane is indicated by dashed lines. In the following, the rotational force receiving portion side 380e2 will be taken into explanation.

[00452] As shown in part (a) of Figure 81, the description will be made about the case in which the disassembly direction of the cartridge B (arrow X12) and the axis L383 of the coupling member 380 are parallel to each other.

[00453] As shown in part (b1) of Figure 81, cartridge B is moved in the disassembly direction X12, which is substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 310 and which is substantially perpendicular to the axis L351 of the side flange. drive 350 to be dismantled from the main apparatus assembly A. In the state that the main assembly drive shaft 300 does not rotate after completion of the imaging operation, the drive transmission pin 302 contacts the rotational force receiving portions 380e1, 380e2. The drive transmission pin 302 is located downstream of the rotational force receiving portion 380e2 with respect to the disassembly direction drive bearing 380f of coupling member 380. This is the initial state of disassembly.

[00454] The position of the coupling member 380 in the state of part (b1) of Figure 81 is the first position (enabled rotational force transmission position). The first position (enabled rotational force transmission position) is substantially the same as the first position described above (designed position). At this time, the rotational axis L381 of the coupling member 380 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More particularly, the rotational axis L381 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially aligned with each other. The rotational axis L381 of the coupling member 380 is substantially parallel to the axis L351 of the drive side flange 350. More particularly, the rotational axis L381 and the rotational axis L351 are substantially aligned with each other.

[00455] Then, cartridge B is moved in the disassembly direction X12. Then, as shown in part (b2) of Figure 81, the rotational force receiving portion 380e2 located on the upstream side of the coupling member 380 with respect to the disassembly direction receives the force F5 produced by disassembly of the cartridge B, from the drive transmission 302. The force F5 is perpendicular to the rotational force receiving portion 380e2, and therefore is parallel with the axis L383, which is perpendicular to the rotational force receiving portion 380e2. Therefore, when the coupling member 380 receives the force F5, the coupling member 380 moves in the direction of arrow X62 along the guide portion 350j2 against the pressing force F370 of the pressing member 170 while maintaining contact between the portion to be guide portion 380j2 and the guide portion 350j2 of the drive side flange 350. The free end portion 300b of the main assembly drive shaft 300 is spaced from the drive bearing surface 380f of the coupling member 380.

[00456] Here, the rotational force receiving portion 380e2 (and rotational force receiving portion 380e1) is fixed such that the coupling for the member 380 can move in the direction of axis L183 by the force F5. In this embodiment, the rotational force receiving portion 380e2 (and rotational force receiving portion 380e1) is the flat surface perpendicular to the L383 axis, and therefore, the direction of the force F5 is parallel with the L383 axis. Therefore, the user can move the cartridge B in the disassembly direction in the direction of arrow X8 by force F5, the transmission projection 380f2 is able to pass through the drive transmission pin 302.

[00457] When the transmission projection 380f2 passes the drive transmission pin 302, the free end portion 300b of the main assembly drive shaft 300 is brought into contact with the drive bearing surface 380f of the coupling member 380, again . When the cartridge B is moved further from this position in the direction of the disassembly direction Figure 81 and Figure 82. The force F6 is directed towards the center of the conically shaped portion of the drive bearing surface 380f, and therefore, a force of component F6b of the force F6 is produced in the direction of the axis L383. Therefore, the coupling member 380 moves in the direction of the arrow the cylindrical inner wall portion 350r2. Therefore, the movement of the coupling member 380 relative to the drive side flange 350 in the direction of the axis L383 is limited.

[00458] At this time, the force of component F6a is produced along the arrow X8 in the direction of axis L381. Therefore, when cartridge B is moved further in the disassembly direction X12, the coupling member 380 is moved in the direction of arrow X8 against the pressing force F370 of the pressing member 370 by the component force F6a. Therefore, as shown in part (b4) of Figure 81, the free end portion 300b of the main assembly drive shaft 300 is disengaged from the opening 380m of the coupling member 380.

[00459] The position of the coupling member 380 shown in part (b4) of Figure 81 is the second position (disengagement enabled position). The second position (disengageable position) is substantially the same as the second position described above (retracted position). At this time, the rotational axis L381 of the coupling member 380 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More specifically, there is an opening between the rotational axis L381 and the rotational axis L1 (the rotational axis L381 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially out of alignment). The rotational axis L381 of the coupling member 380 is substantially parallel to the axis L351 of the drive side flange 350. More specifically, there is an opening between the rotational axis L381 and the rotational axis L351 at this time, (the rotational axis L381 and the axis rotational L1 are substantially out of alignment). In this second position, the coupling member 180 is displaced (moved/retracted) to the photosensitive drum 10 (to the other side of the end portion of the photosensitive drum 10 in the longitudinal direction) from the position in the first position.

[00460] As shown in part (a) of Figure 83, the coupling member 380 spaced from the main assembly drive shaft 300 is moved in the direction opposite to the direction indicated by arrow X62 while maintaining contact between the portion to be guided 380j2 and the guide portion 350j2 of the drive side flange 350 by the pressing force F370 of the pressing member 370. As shown in part (b) of Figure 83, the cartridge B returns to the initial state of the assembly at which the assembly to the main assembly A of the apparatus begins, that is, the transmission projections 380f1, 380f2 of the coupling member 380 return to the state in which the most relative projected to the drive side flange 350 (first position (projected position)).

[00461] In summary, with the disassembly of cartridge B from the main assembly A of the apparatus, the coupling member 380 is disengaged from the main assembly side engagement portion 300. In other words, with the removal of cartridge B from the main assembly In the apparatus, the coupling member 180 receives force from the main mounting side engagement portion 300, such that the coupling member 380 moves from the first position to the second position, and thereafter to the first position. In other words, upon disassembly of the cartridge B from the main assembly A of the apparatus, the coupling member 380 receives the forces from the main mounting side engagement portion 300 and the drive side flange 350 to displace (move) the first position (rotational force transmission enabled position) to the second position (disengagement enabled position).

[00462] Referring to part (a) of Figure 84, the description will be made about the case that the axis L383 of the coupling member 380 is perpendicular to the disassembly direction X12 of the cartridge B.

[00463] As shown in part (b1) of Figure 84, in the state that the rotation of the main assembly drive shaft 300 has stopped after the completion of the image forming operation, the drive transmission pin 302 contacts the image receiving portions. rotational force 380e1 and 380e2. At this time, the free end portion 300b of the main assembly drive shaft 300 contacts the drive bearing surface 380f of the coupling member 380. This is the initial state of disassembly.

[00464] Then, cartridge B is moved in the disassembly direction X12. Therefore, the coupling member 380 moves together with the drive side flange 350 in the disassembly direction X12 since the movement of the coupling member 380 relative to the drive side flange 350 in the axis direction L382 is limited. As shown in part (b2) of Figure 84, the drive bearing surface 380f of the coupling member 380 as a retraction force receiving portion is driven by the force F9 (retraction force) of the free end portion 300b of the drive shaft. main assembly drive 300 by the disassembly movement of the cartridge B. The force F9 is directed to the center of the conical shape of the drive shaft bearing 380f, and therefore, a force of component F9a along the arrow X8 is produced in the direction of the axis L381. By the component force F9a, the coupling member 880 is moved in the direction of arrow X8 against the pressing force F170 of the pressing member 170.

[00465] When the cartridge B is moved further in the disassembly direction F10 of the free end portion 300b of disassembly of the cartridge B, as shown in part (b3) of Figure 84. The force F10 is directed to the center of the spherical surface of the free end portion 300b, and therefore, a force of component F10a is produced along arrow X8 in the direction of axis L381. When the cartridge B is moved further in the dismounting direction X12, the coupling member 380 moves further in the direction of the arrow 84, by movement of the coupling member 380 in the direction of arrow X8 by the force of component F10a, the transmission projection 380f2 is able to pass the drive transmission pin 302. main assembly 300 disengages from the opening 380m of the coupling member 380.

[00466] The coupling member 380 now spaced from the main assembly drive shaft 300 returns to the initial state of the assembly at which the cartridge B begins to be mounted to the main assembly A of the apparatus, i.e., the transmission projections 380f1, 380f2 of the coupling member 380 are more projected (part (b) of Figure 83) relative to the drive side flange 350, similarly to the case that the disassembly direction (arrow X12) of the cartridge B is parallel with the axis L383 of the coupling member 380. 380 coupling.

[00467] In the foregoing description, the disassembly direction even when the disassembly direction is different from those described above. In such a case, upon disassembly of cartridge B, one of the transmission projections 380f1 and 380f2 contacts the drive transmission pin 302. Or, the free end portion 300b of the main assembly drive shaft 300 contacts the drive bearing surface 380f of the coupling member 380. Additionally, one of the inner surface 380f3 (not shown) of the transmission projection 380f1 and the inner surface 380f4 of the transmission projection 380f2 contacts the free end portion 300b of the main assembly drive shaft 300. Then, the coupling member 380 receives one of the force F5, F6 and force F9, F10 by the disassembly movement to move in the direction of the arrow X8 relative to the drive side flange 350, thereby being able to disengage from the drive shaft of main assembly 300.

[00468] When disassembling cartridge B from the main assembly A of the apparatus, cartridge B can be disassembled from the main assembly A of the apparatus, regardless of the rotational phases of the coupling member 380 and the drive transmission pin 302 relative to the direction of disassembly of cartridge B of the main assembly A of the device.

[00469] As described in the foregoing, in response to the cartridge B disassembly operation, the coupling member 380 may be disengaged in the state that the free end portion 300b of the main assembly drive shaft 300 is in the opening 380m of the coupling member. coupling 380. Therefore, cartridge B can be disassembled in the direction substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis of the photosensitive drum 310.

[00470] According to the embodiment of the present invention, the coupling member 380 is movable relative to the drive side flange 350 in the direction of axis L381 and in the direction of axis L383. Furthermore, the coupling member 380 is movable relative to the drive side flange 350 in the axis direction L381 in interrelationship with the movement in the axis direction L383. Therefore, when the cartridge B is mounted to the main assembly A of the apparatus by moving the cartridge B in the direction substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 310, the coupling member 380 moves in the direction of the axis L381 to engage with the axis of main assembly drive 300. Furthermore, when cartridge B is disassembled from the main assembly A of the apparatus by moving cartridge B in the direction substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 310, the coupling member 380 moves in the direction of the axis L381 to disengage from the main mount drive shaft 300. Furthermore, when the cartridge B is dismounted from the main mount A of the apparatus, it is unnecessary to rotate either of the photosensitive drum 310 and the main mount drive shaft 300. Therefore, the load disassembly time of cartridge B is reduced, and the utility performance when disassembling cartridge B from the main assembly A of the device is improved.

[00471] The configuration of the main assembly drive shaft is not limited to that described in the foregoing. Referring to Figure 85, a modified example of the main assembly drive shaft will be described. Figure 85 is a perspective view of the main assembly drive shaft and drum drive gear.

[00472] As shown in part (a) of Figure 85, a free end portion of a main assembly drive shaft 1300 may be a flat surface 1300b. Therefore, the axis configuration is simple with the result that the industrial cost can be reduced, thus realizing cost reduction. In such a case, the main assembly drive shaft 1300 contacts the coupling member 380 with the flat surface 1300b, but the drive bearing surface 380f (Figure 68) contacted by the flat surface 1300b has a conical shape. Therefore, by the movement of cartridge B in assembly and disassembly, the coupling member 380 receives a component force in the direction of axis L381 of the main assembly drive shaft 1300, and therefore, the coupling member 380 can pass through the drive shaft main assembly 1300.

[00473] As shown in part (b) of Figure 85, drive transmitting portions 1302c1 and 1302c2 for transmitting drive force to cartridge B may be formed early with the main assembly drive shaft 1300, wherein the drive surfaces drive portions 1302e1 and 1302e2 are formed in drive transmitter portions 1302c1 and 1302c2, respectively. By manufacturing the drive shaft from resin material, the drive transmitting portion can be integrally formed to realize cost reduction.

[00474] As shown in part (c) of Figure 85, in order to narrow the range of the free end portion 1300b of the main assembly drive shaft 1300, a free end of shaft 1300d having a smaller diameter than the main part 1300a can be provided. As previously described, a certain degree of accuracy is required for the free end portion 1300b in order to determine the position of the coupling member 380. Therefore, in order to limit a range of accuracy required for the contact portion of the coupling member 380 (drive bearing surface 380f, part (a) of Figure 66), only the expensive precision required surface can be made smaller, thus reducing the industrial cost.

[00475] In this embodiment, the rotational force receiving portion of the coupling member is a flat surface perpendicular to the L383 axis, but the present invention is not limited to such an example. Referring to Figure 86, a modified example of the rotational force receiving portion will be described. Figure 86 is a perspective view and a top plan view of the coupling member.

[00476] As shown in Figure 86, the rotational force receiving portions 1380e1 and 1380e2 of the transmission projections 1380f1 and 1380f2 of the coupling member 1380 are inclined by an angle a5 relative to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 310. That is, they they are inclined surfaces relative to axis L383. When the main assembly drive shaft 300 rotates in the direction indicated by an arrow T1, the rotational force receiving portions 1380e1, 1380e2 of the coupling member 1380 contact the drive transmission pin 302. Then, the coupling member 1380 receives a component force in the direction of arrow T2. When the cartridge B is mounted to the main assembly A of the apparatus, a drive bearing surface 1380f of the coupling member 1380 contacts the free end portion 300b of the main assembly drive shaft 300 by the pressing force F370 of the pressing member 370 (part (b4) of Figure 75). Therefore, by the coupling member 1380 receiving the force in the direction of arrow T2, the contact between the drive bearing surface 1380f and the free end portion 300b is made stronger during the drive operation, and therefore, the engagement between the coupling member 1380 and the main assembly drive shaft 300 may be further stabilized. Concretization 4

[00477] Referring to Figure 87 by Figure 99, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[00478] In the description of this embodiment, the same reference numerals as in Embodiment 1 are named to the elements having corresponding functions in this embodiment, and the detailed description thereof is omitted for simplicity, and the structure and operation that are different from Embodiment 1 will be described. Also, names of similar parts will be named. This applies to the other embodiments, too.

[00479] Similar to the description of Embodiment 1, rotational axes of a drive side flange 450, a coupling member 480 and a main mounting side engagement portion 100 will be called axes. This applies to the other embodiments, too.

[00480] The mounting direction of cartridge B to the main assembly A of the apparatus and the disassembly direction of cartridge B from the main assembly A of the apparatus in this embodiment are similar to those of Embodiment 1, and this applies to the other embodiments, too.

[00481] Referring first to Figure 87, the structure of a coupling unit U40 used in this embodiment will be described. As shown in Figure 87, the coupling unit U40 comprises the coupling member 480, an intermediate slider 430 as an intermediate transmission member, and a guide pin (pin to be guided) 440.

[00482] Coupling member 480 will be described in detail. The rotational axis of the coupling member 480 is an L481 axis, a direction perpendicular to the L481 axis is an L482 axis, and a direction perpendicular to both the L481 axis and the L442 axis is an L483 axis.

[00483] Part (a) - part (c) of Figure 87 are exploded perspective views of the coupling unit U40. Part (d) - part (e) of Figure 87 illustrates the coupling unit U40, and part (d) of Figure 87 is a view when viewed in the direction of axis L881, and part (e) of Figure 87 is a view when view in the direction of axis L483. In part (e) of Figure 87, a cylindrical inner wall portion 430r1 and a cylindrical inner wall portion 430r2 (which will be described next) of the slider 430 are exposed by dashed lines.

[00484] As shown in Figure 87, the coupling member 480 mainly comprises three portions. A first portion is a driven portion 480a as an end portion (free end portion) engageable with the main assembly drive shaft 400 which will be described next for receiving rotational force from the drive transmission pin 302 which will be described in followed and which is a rotational force transmitting portion (main mounting side rotational force transmitting portion) provided on the main mounting drive shaft 300. A second portion is a drive portion 480b as the other end portion (supported portion ), which functions to transmit a rotational drive force to the drive side flange 450 which will next be described by the intermediate slider 430 and which is supported by a slider 460 such that the coupling member 480 can move in the direction of the rotational axis L481. An interconnect portion 480c connects the drive portion 480b and the driven portion 480a to each other. As shown in part (b) of Figure 87, a driven portion 380a includes a drive shaft insertion opening 480m as the recess expanding from the rotational axis L481 of the coupling member 480. The opening 480m is provided by a bearing surface. conical drive shaft 480f expanding as it approaches the main assembly drive shaft 300.

[00485] On the circumference of the end surface thereof, transmission projections 480f1 and 480f2 are provided projecting from the drive bearing surface 480f. The outer peripheral surface of the driven portion 380a including the two transmission projections 480f1 and 480f2 is provided with a substantially spherical main mounting contact portion 480i. When the coupling member 480 is engaged with the main assembly drive shaft 300, and when the coupling member 480 is disengaged from the main assembly drive shaft 300, the main assembly contact portion 480i contacts the free end portion 300b and the drive transmission pin 302 of the main assembly drive shaft 300.

[00486] Between the transmission projections 480f1 and 480f2, drive receiving waiting portions 480k1 and 480k2 are provided. A clearance between the two drive receiving projections 480f1 and 480f2 is greater than an outer diameter of the drive transmission pin so that the drive transmission pin 302 of the main assembly drive shaft 300 of the main assembly A of the apparatus which will be described below can be received by the slack portion. The slack portions are designated 480k1 and 480k2.

[00487] At positions downstream of the transmission projection 480f1 and 480f2 with respect to the clockwise direction, drive force receiving surfaces (rotational force receiving portions) 480e1 and 480e2 are provided, for which the transmission pin 302 as the transmitting portion of rotational force provided on the main assembly drive shaft 300 limits to transmit the rotational force. That is, the drive force receiving surfaces 480e1 and 480e2 intersect with the direction of rotational movement of the coupling member 480 so that they are rotated about the axis L481 and are pushed by the side surfaces of the drive transmission pin 302 of the drive shaft. main assembly drive 300.

[00488] When the interconnecting portion 480c is sectioned in a plane perpendicular to the axis L481, at least one cross-section of the interconnecting portion 480c has a maximum rotational radius that is less than a distance between the rotational axis L481 of the coupling member 480 and the transmission projections 480f1 and 480f2 (drive force receiving surfaces 480e1 and 480e2). In other words, a predetermined section of the interconnect portion 480c perpendicular to the rotational axis L2 of the coupling member 4380 has a maximum rotational radius that is less than the distance between the transmission projections 480f1 and 480f2 (drive force receiving surfaces 480e1 and 480e2) and the rotational axis L2. Furthermore, in other words, the interconnect portion 480c has a diameter that is smaller than the distance between the transmission projection 480f1 (drive force receiving surface 480e1) and the transmission projection 480f2 (drive force receiving surface 480e2). .

[00489] As shown in Figure 87, the round body (interconnect portion 480c and drive portion 480b) comprises a cylindrical portion 480r1, a cylindrical portion 480r2, a first rotational force transmitting portion 480g1, a first rotational force transmitting portion 280g2 and a 480p through hole.

[00490] The through holes 480p are cylindrical and are provided in the first rotational force transmitting portion 480g1 and the first rotational force transmitting portion 480g2, and the central axes of the through holes 480p are parallel with the axis L483.

[00491] The first rotational force transmitting portion 480g1 and the first rotational force transmitting portion 480g2 are flat surfaces perpendicular to the L483 axis, and arranged in diametrically opposite positions to each other with respect to the L481 axis, when viewed in the direction of the L481 axis. The cylindrical portion 480r1 and the cylindrical portion 480r2 are cylindrical, and the central axis thereof is the L481 axis, and they are arranged in diametrically opposite positions to each other with respect to the L481 axis, when viewed in the direction of the L481 axis.

[00492] An intermediate cursor 430 as an intermediate transmission member will be described in detail. As shown in part (a) of Figure 87, a rotational axis of the intermediate cursor 430 is an L431 axis, a direction perpendicular to the L431 axis is an L432 axis, and a direction perpendicular to the L431 axis and the L432 axis is an L433 axis.

[00493] The intermediate slider 430 mainly comprises a hollow portion 430f, an outer periphery portion 430e and first guide portions 430j1 - 430j4.

[00494] The outer periphery portion 430e is provided with a cylindrical projection 430m1 and a cylindrical projection 430m2 that extend in the direction of axis L432 and are provided with second rotational force transmitting portions 430k1 and 430k2, which will be described below.

[00495] The second rotational force transmitting portions 430k1, 430k2 are flat surfaces perpendicular to the L432 axis and are diametrically opposed to each other with respect to the L431 axis. Furthermore, a round body 430c1 and a round body 430c2 have cylindrical shapes having the central axes aligned with the L431 axis and arranged in positions diametrically opposite to each other with respect to the L431 axis.

[00496] The hollow portion 430f is provided with a first rotational force receiving portion 430g1 and a first rotational force receiving portion 430g2 having flat surfaces perpendicular to axis L433, and the cylindrical inner wall portion 430r1 and the cylindrical inner wall portion 430r2 having a cylindrical shape with the central axis thereof aligned with the L431 axis. The cylindrical inner wall portion 430r1 and the cylindrical inner wall portion 430r2 are disposed at positions diametrically opposite to each other with respect to the L431 axis, when viewed in the direction of the L431 axis.

[00497] As shown in part (e) of Figure 87, the first guide portion 430j3 and the first guide portion 430j4 are inclined by an angle 04 relative to the L431 axis when viewed in the direction of the L433 axis. The first guide portion 430j3 and the first guide portion 430j4 have symmetrical configurations with respect to the L431 axis when viewed in the direction of the L433 axis. As shown in part (a) of Figure 87, the first guide portion 430j1 and the first guide portion 430j2 are disposed at diametrically opposite positions of the first guide portion 430j3 and the first guide portion 430j4 with respect to axis L431, respectively. .

[00498] As shown in part (c) of Figure 87, the cylindrical portions 480r1 and 480r2 and first rotational force transmitting portions 480g1 and 480g2 are arranged in the hollow portion 430f such that the axis L483 of the coupling member 480 is parallel to the axis L433 of intermediate slider 430. As shown in part (d) of Figure 87, the first rotational force transmitting portions 480g1, 480g2 and the first rotational force receiving portions 430g1, 430g2 are engaged with each other with almost no opening in the axis L483. Therefore, the coupling member 480 is prevented from movement relative to the intermediate slide 430 in the direction of axis L483. The intermediate slide 430 is prevented from rotating relative to the coupling member 480 in the direction of axis L431. That is, a rotational force is transmitted from the coupling member 280 to the intermediate slider 230 by the engagement between the first rotational force transmitting portion 480g1 and the first rotational force transmitting portion 480g2 and the first rotational force receiving portion 430g1 and the first rotational force receiving portion 430g2.

[00499] The cylindrical portion 480r1, the cylindrical portion 480r2, the cylindrical inner wall portion 430r1 and the cylindrical inner wall portion 430r2 are provided such that when the axis L481 of the coupling member 480 is substantially coaxial with the axis L431 in the portion hollow 430f, openings D10 are provided between the cylindrical portion 480r1 and the cylindrical inner wall portion 430r1 and between the cylindrical portion 480r2 and the cylindrical inner wall portion 430r2, respectively. Therefore, the coupling member 480 is movable relative to the intermediate slide 430 in the direction of axis L482.

[00500] As shown in part (c) of Figure 87 and part (e) of Figure 87, the cylindrical guided pin 440 is inserted into a through hole 430p of the coupling member 430. As will be described below, when the coupling member 430 coupling 480 is impelled by a pressing member 470 towards the drive side (arrow the drive side, and the L481 shaft substantially coaxial with the L431 shaft.

[00501] Figures 88 and 89, the structure of a U42 drive side flange unit used in this embodiment will be described. Part (a) of Figure 88 is a schematic perspective view of a photosensitive drum unit U41 as a photosensitive member unit to which the drive side flange unit U42 is mounted, when viewed from the drive side. Part (b) of Figure 88 is a schematic sectional view taken along a line S41 in part (a) of Figure 88, and part (c) of Figure 88 is a schematic sectional view taken along a line S42 in part (a) of Figure 88. Figure 89 is an exploded perspective view of the drive side flange unit U42. In part (c) of Figure 88, second guide portions 450j1, 450j2 and a sliding groove 450s1 are depicted by dashed lines for better illustration.

[00502] As shown in Figure 88, the drive side flange unit U42 comprises the drive side flange 450, the coupling unit U40, retaining pins 491, 492, the pressing member 470 and a slider 460.

[00503] Referring first to Figure 89, the drive side flange 450 will be described in detail. The rotational axis of the drive side flange is L451 axis, a direction perpendicular to the L451 axis is L452 axis, and a direction perpendicular to both the L451 axis and the L452 axis is L453 axis.

[00504] The drive side flange 450 is provided with an engagement side portion 450b, a gear portion 450c and a support portion 450d and so on. The interior of the drive side flange 450 is hollow and will be called a hollow portion 450f.

[00505] The hollow portion 450f is provided with second rotational force receiving portions 450g1 and 450g2 having flat surfaces perpendicular to the axes L452, a cylindrical inner wall portion 450r having a cylindrical shape with a central axis aligned with the axis L451, and second tab portions 450j1 - 450j4.

[00506] As shown in part (c) of Figure 88, the second guide portions 450j1, 450j2 are inclined relative to an axis L251 by an angle 05 when viewed in the direction of the axis L452. The second guide portions 450j1, 450j2 have symmetric configurations with respect to the L451 axis when viewed in the direction of the L452 axis. The second guide portions 450j3, 450j4 are provided diametrically opposite the second guide portions 450j1, 450j2 with respect to the axis L451, respectively.

[00507] The cylindrical inner wall portion 450r is provided with the sliding groove 450s1 and the sliding groove 450s4. As will be described next, the sliding groove 450s1 and the sliding groove 450s4 are through holes for supporting the retaining pins 491, 492 and have rectangular shapes with long sides along the L453 axis when viewed in the direction of the L452 axis.

[00508] As shown in Figures 88 and 89, the coupling unit U40 is arranged in the hollow portion 450f of the drive side flange 450 such that the axis L482 is parallel to the axis L452. The second rotational force transmitting portions 430k1, 430k2 of the intermediate slider 430 and the second rotational force receiving portions 450g1, 450g2 are engaged with each other with almost no opening in the direction of axis L482. Therefore, the coupling unit U40 is prevented from movement relative to the drive side flange 450 in the direction of shaft L482 (part (d) of Figure 89). The intermediate slide 430 is prevented from rotating relative to the drive side flange 450 about the shaft L451. That is, the rotational force is transmitted from the intermediate slide 430 to the flange 450 by engagement between the second rotational force transmitting portion 430k1 and the second rotational force receiving portion 450g1 and between the second rotational force transmitting portion 430k2 and the second portion 450g2 rotational force receiver.

[00509] As shown in part (c) of Figure 88, the round body 430c1, the round body 430c2 and the cylindrical inner wall portion 450r are provided such that when the axis L481 of the coupling unit U40 is substantially coaxial with the axis L451 in the hollow portion 450f, openings D20 are provided between the round body 430c1 and the cylindrical inner wall portion 450r and between the round body 430c2 and the cylindrical inner wall portion 450r. Therefore, the coupling unit U40 is movable relative to the drive side flange 450 in the direction of the axis L483. As will be described next, when the intermediate slider 430 is driven to the drive side (arrow the second portion of guide 450j4. Therefore, the intermediate slide 430 is prevented from disengaging from the drive side flange 450 to the drive side, and the shaft L431 is substantially coaxial with the shaft L451.

[00510] As shown in Figure 88, the slider 460 as the retaining member (movable member) is provided with a cylindrical portion 460a engaged with the cylindrical portions 480r1, 480r2 of the coupling member 480, a contact portion 460b contacted by a end portion 470a of pressing member 470, and through holes 460c1 - 460c4 penetrated by retaining pins 491, 492. The central axis of the cylindrical portion 460a is an axis L461.

[00511] The cylindrical portion 460a engages with the cylindrical portion 480r1 and the cylindrical portion 480r2 of the coupling member 480 with almost no opening to support them. Therefore, the coupling member 480 is movable in the direction of the L481 axis while keeping the L481 axis and the L461 axis coaxial with each other.

[00512] As shown in part (c) of Figure 89, cylindrical retaining pins 491, 492 are inserted into through holes 460c1 - 460c4 with almost no opening in the diametrical direction such that the central axes are parallel with the L452 axis of the flange of drive side flange 450. By the retaining pins 491, 492 supported by the sliding groove 450s1, 450s4 of the drive side flange 450, the slider 460 and the drive side flange 450 are connected to each other.

[00513] As shown in part (c) of Figure 88, retaining pins 491, 492 are juxtaposed in the direction of axis L453. Furthermore, the diameters of the retaining pin 491, 492 are slightly smaller than a sliding groove width 450s1, 450s4 measured in the direction of axis L451. Therefore, the cursor 460 maintains parallelism between the L461 axis and the L451 axis. Furthermore, the slider 460 is prevented from movement relative to the drive side flange 450 in the direction of the axis L451. In other words, the cursor 260 is movable in the direction substantially perpendicular to the L451 axis.

[00514] As shown in part (b) of Figure 88, the retaining pins 491, 492 are prevented from disengaging in the direction of axis L452 by the opening 310a2 (Figure 65) of the photosensitive drum 310. Furthermore, a length G4 of the pins of retention 491, 492 is greater than a G5 diameter of the cylindrical inner wall portion 450r. Therefore, the retaining pins 491, 492 are prevented from dislodging from the sliding grooves 4250s1, 450s4.

[00515] Furthermore, between the retaining pin 491 and an end portion 450s2 of the sliding groove 450s1 and between the retaining pin 492 and the other end portion 450s3 of the sliding groove 450s1, openings E30 larger than the opening D20 are provided (part (c) of Figure 88). Between the retaining pin 491 and an end portion 450s5 of the sliding groove 450s4 and between the retaining pin 492 and the other end portion 450s6 of the sliding groove 450s4, openings similar to opening E30 are provided. Additionally, lubricant (not shown) is applied to through holes 460c1 - 460c4 and sliding grooves 450s1, 450s4. Therefore, the slider 460 is smoothly movable relative to the drive side flange 450 in the direction of the axis L453.

[00516] Therefore, the cursor 460 is movable relative to the drive side flange 450 in the directions of axis L452 and axis L453 and in a direction provided by vector sum of these directions (that is, any direction perpendicular to axis L451), while maintaining parallelism between the L461 axis and the L451 axis. In other words, the cursor 460 is substantially movable in the direction perpendicular to the L451 axis. Furthermore, the slider 460 is prevented from movement relative to the drive side flange 450 in the direction of the axis L451.

[00517] As shown in part (b) of Figure 88, an end portion 2470a of the pressing member 470 contacts a spring contact portion 460b of the slider 460, and another end portion 470b contacts a spring contact portion 480d1 of the coupling member 480. The pressing member 470 is compressed between the coupling member 480 and the slider 460 to urge the coupling member 480 towards the drive side (arrow X9). As shown in part (e) of Figure 87, the pressing member 470 also urges the intermediate slider 430 to the drive side (arrow X9), by contact between the guide pin 440 mounted on the coupling member 480 and the first portion of guide 430j1 - first portion of guide 430j4.

[00518] With the structures described above, the coupling member 480 maintains the state relative to the drive side flange 450 by the slider 460 such that the axis L481 and the axis L451 are parallel to each other. The intermediate slide 430 does not rotate relative to the coupling member 480 about the L432 shaft, and does not rotate relative to the drive side flange 450 about the L433 shaft. Therefore, the intermediate slide 430 remains relative to the coupling member 480 and the drive side flange 450 such that the axis L431 is parallel to the axis L481 and the axis L451.

[00519] Additionally, the coupling member 480 is movable relative to the intermediate slider 430 in the direction of axis L482. Furthermore, the intermediate slide 430 is movable relative to the drive side flange 450 in the direction of axis L433. In other words, when viewed in the direction of axis L451, the direction of movement of the coupling member 480 relative to the intermediate slider 430 and the direction of movement of the intermediate slider 430 relative to the drive side flange 450 are substantially intersecting each other (more particularly, substantially perpendicular to each other). Therefore, the coupling member 480 is movable relative to the drive side flange 450 in the direction of axis L482, in the direction of axis L433 and in a direction provided by vector sum of these directions (that is, any direction perpendicular to axis L481). .

[00520] Furthermore, by the impulsion of the pressing member 470, the axis L481 of the coupling member 480 becomes substantially coaxial with the axis L431 of the intermediate slider 430, and the axis L431 becomes substantially coaxial with the axis L451 of the drive side flange 450. Therefore, the coupling member 480 is driven by the pressing member 470 relative to the drive side flange 450 such that the shaft L481 and the shaft L451 are substantially coaxial with each other.

[00521] Referring to Figure 90 by Figure 93, the operation of the coupling member 480 will be described. Figure 90 shows the state in which the axis L481 of the coupling member 480 is coaxial with the axis L451 of the drive side flange 450. Part (a) of Figure 90 is a view when viewed from the drive side, part (b) of Figure 90 and part (c) of Figure 90 are sectional views taken along a line SL483 parallel with axis L483 and a line SL482 parallel with axis L482 of part (a) of Figure 90, respectively. The lines along which the sectional views are taken apply to Figure 91 through Figure 93. Figure 91 shows the state in which the coupling member 480 has been moved relative to the drive side flange 450 in the direction of an arrow X51 parallel with the L483 axis. Figure 92 shows the state in which the coupling member 480 has been moved relative to the drive side flange 450 in the direction of an arrow that X41 is parallel with the axis L482. Figure 94 is a view in which the coupling member 480 has been moved a distance p in a direction of an arrow X45 that is in the direction provided by a sum of the vectors of the arrow X41 and the arrow X51.

[00522] First, as shown in Figure 90, by the pressing force F470 of the pressing member 470, the first guide portions 430j3, 430j4 contact the guide pin 440, and the second guide portions 450j1, 450j2 contact the cylindrical projection 430m1. Here, as shown in part (c) of Figure 90, by contact between the first guide portions 430j3, 430j4 and the guide pin 440 with the axis L481 and the axis L431 they become substantially coaxial with each other, as seen in the direction of the axis L482. On the other hand, as shown in part (b) of Figure 90, by contact between the second guide portions 450j1, 450j2 and the cylindrical projection 430m1, the axis L431 and the axis L451 become substantially coaxial with each other, when viewed in the direction of the axis L483. Therefore, by the pressing force F470 from the pressing member 470 to the coupling member 480, the axis L481 and the axis L451 become substantially coaxial with each other.

[00523] Then, as shown in part (a) of Figure 91, the coupling member 480 is moved relative to the drive side flange 450 in the direction of the arrow that X51 is parallel to the axis L483. Then, as shown in part (b) of Figure 91, the coupling unit U40 is moved in the direction on the second guide portion 450j1 (arrow X61) by the contact between the cylindrical projection 430m1 as an inclined portion or contact portion of the intermediate slide 430 and the second guide portion 450j1 as an inclined portion or contact portion of the drive side flange 450. At this time, the coupling unit U40 maintains the state in which the axis L481 is parallel to the axis L451. Therefore, the coupling unit U40 is movable in the direction of the arrow same as aperture D20. On the other hand, the cursor 460 is prevented from moving in the direction of the axis L451, by the retaining pins 491 and 292. Therefore, in interrelationship with the movement of the coupling unit U40 in the direction of the arrow X61, the cursor 460 moves moves together with retaining pins 491, 492 along sliding groove 450s1 and sliding groove 450s4, in the direction of arrow X51.

[00524] When the coupling member 480 is moved in the opposite direction of arrow X51, the coupling member 480 moves along the second guide portion 450j2, similarly.

[00525] On the one hand, as shown in part (a) of Figure 92, the coupling member 480 is moved relative to the drive side flange 450 in the direction of arrow X41 parallel with the axis L482. Then, as shown in part (c) of Figure 92, the coupling member 480 is moved in the direction along the first guide portion 430j4 (arrow X71) by the contact between the guide pin 440 as the inclined portion or contact portion and the first guide portion 430j4 as the inclined portion or contact portion of the intermediate slider 430. At this time, the coupling member 480 is such that the parallelism between the axis L481 and the axis L431. Therefore, the coupling member 480 is movable in the direction of the arrow L482 is the same as opening D10. On the other hand, the slider 460 is prevented from moving in the direction of the axis L451 by the retaining pin 491 and the retaining pin 492. Therefore, in interrelationship with the movement of the coupling member 480 in the direction of the arrow X71 , the cursor 460 moves in the direction of arrow X41 along the central axis of the retaining pin 491 and the retaining pin 492.

[00526] When the coupling member 480 is moved in the direction opposite to that of arrow X41, the coupling member 480 moves along the first guide portion 430j3, similarly.

[00527] Furthermore, as shown in part (a) of Figure 93, the coupling member 480 is moved relative to the drive side flange 450 in the direction of arrow X45 by the distance p. A component of the distance p in the direction of the L482 axis is p4, and the component of this in the direction of the L483 axis is p5. Then, the coupling member 480 moves relative to the intermediate slider 430 in the direction of axis L482 by the distance p4. Simultaneously, the coupling member 480 and the intermediate slide 430 move relative to the drive side flange in the direction of axis L483 by the distance p5. With the movement of the coupling member 480 relative to the intermediate slider 430, the coupling member 480 moves along the first guide portion 430j4 by the distance p41, and moves relative to the intermediate slider 430 in the direction of arrow X8 (part (c ) of Figure 93). Simultaneously, with the movement of the intermediate slide 430 relative to the drive side flange 450, the intermediate slide 430 and the coupling member 480 move along the second guide portion 450j1 by the distance p51, and move relative to the side flange drive 450 in the direction of arrow X8 (part (b) of Figure 93). Therefore, with movement of the coupling member 480 in the direction of arrow X45 by distance p, it moves in the direction of arrow X8 by distance p41+p51.

[00528] The structure for movement of coupling member 480 in the direction of arrow X8 is similar to that of Embodiment 3, and therefore, the description is omitted.

[00529] As described in the foregoing, the coupling member 480 is movable relative to the drive side flange 450 in the direction of axis L481, in the direction of axis L483 and in the direction of axis L482. Furthermore, the coupling member 480 is movable relative to the drive side flange 450 in the direction of axis L481 in interrelation with movement in the direction of axis L483, in the direction of axis L482 and in the direction provided by the sum of the vectors thereof. directions, that is, any direction perpendicular to the L481 axis.

[00530] Referring to Figure 94 by Figure 96, the operation of engaging the coupling member 480 will be described. Figures 94 and 96 are a schematic sectional view showing the state in which the coupling member 480 engages with the main mounting side engagement portion 300. Part (a) of Figure 94 and part (a) of Figure 96 show the direction assembly and the lines along which a sectional view S43 and sectional view S44 are taken. Part (b1) of Figure 94 through part (b4) of Figure 94 are schematic sectional views taken along a line S43 - S43 of part (a) of Figure 94, wherein the coupling member 480 moves to engage with the main mounting side engagement portion 300. Part (b1) of Figure 96 and part (b2) of Figure 96 are schematic sectional views taken along a line S44 of part (a) of Figure 96, wherein the coupling 480 moves to engage with the main mounting side engagement portion 300. Part (a) of Figure 95 and part (b) of Figure 95 are enlarged views of the roundness of the drive side flange unit U42 shown in part (b1) of Figure 94 and part (b2) of Figure 94. In part (b) of Figure 95 and part (b2) of Figure 96, the transmission projection 480f2 in the initial state (which will be described next) of the assembly is described by dashed lines. Description will be made in the following about the completion of engagement between the main mounting side engagement portion 300 and the coupling member 480.

[00531] As shown in part (a) of Figure 94, the description will be made about the case that the axis L483 of the coupling member 480 and the mounting direction of the cartridge B (arrow X1) are parallel to each other.

[00532] As shown in part (b1) of Figure 94 and part (a) of Figure 95, at the time when cartridge B begins to be mounted to the main assembly A of the apparatus, the transmission projections 480f1 and 480f2 of the coupling member 480 are further projected relative to the drive side flange 450 by the pressing force F470 of the pressing member 470. This state is the initial state of the assembly. The position of the coupling member 480 in the state shown in part (b1) of Figure 94 is a first position (designed position). At this time, the rotational axis L481 of the coupling member 480 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More particularly, the rotational axis L481 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially aligned with each other. The rotational axis L481 of the coupling member 480 is substantially parallel to the axis L451 of the drive side flange 450. More particularly, the rotational axis L481 and the rotational axis L451 are substantially aligned with each other.

[00533] When cartridge B is moved from the initial mounting position in the direction of arrow X1, the main mounting contact portion 480i of the coupling member 480 contacts the free end portion 300b of the main mounting drive shaft 300 provided in the main assembly A. Then, the main assembly contact portion 480i receives the force F1 from the free end portion 300b by the assembly movement. The force F1 is directed substantially towards the center of the substantially spherical surface constituting the main mounting contact portion 480i, and therefore, is inclined by an angle 07 that is less than a complementary angle 031 of the angle 03 relative to the axis L483. By force F1, the cylindrical projection 430m1 of the intermediate slide 430 contacts the second guide portion 450j1 of the drive side flange 450. The coupling unit U40 moves relative to the drive side flange 450 along the second guide portion 450j1 in the direction of arrow X61.

[00534] As shown in part (b2) of Figure 94 and part (b) of Figure 95, the round body 430c1 of the intermediate slider 430 contacts a cylindrical inner wall portion 450r1 of the drive side flange 450 to limit movement. from coupling unit U40 in the direction of X61. At this time, in the direction of axis L481, a movement distance of coupling unit U40 from the initial assembly state is N20. The movement distance N20 is determined by the angle 05 of the second guide portion 450j1 - of the second guide portion 450j4 relative to the axis L451 and the opening D20 (part (c) of Figure 88).

[00535] In the state shown in part (b) of Figure 95, the coupling unit U40 is away from the position in the initial state of assembly shown in part (b1) of Figure 94 and part (a) of Figure 95 in the direction of the arrow X8 for a movement distance of N20. Then, the angle 07 formed between the direction of the force F1 and the axis L483 increases when compared with that in the initial state of the assembly, because the force F1 is directed substantially to the center of the spherical surface constituting the main assembly contact portion 480i. With this, a force of component F1a of the force F1 in the direction of the arrow X8 increases when compared to that of the initial state of the assembly. By the force of component F1a, the coupling member 480 further moves in the direction of arrow X8 against the pressing force F470 of the pressing member 470. By the movement of the coupling member 480 in the direction of arrow X8, the coupling member 480 is capable of pass through the free end portion 300b of the main assembly drive shaft 300. The position of the coupling member 480 shown in part (b2) of Figure 94 is a second position (retracted position). At this time, the rotational axis L481 of the coupling member 480 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More specifically, there is an opening between the rotational axis L481 and the rotational axis L1 (the rotational axis L481 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially out of alignment). The rotational axis L481 of the coupling member 480 is substantially parallel to the axis L451 of the drive side flange 450. More specifically, there is an opening between the rotational axis L481 and the rotational axis L451 at this time, (the rotational axis L481 and the rotational L1 are substantially out of alignment). In this second position, the coupling member 480 is displaced (moved/retracted) to the photosensitive drum 10 (to the other side of the end portion of the photosensitive drum 10 in the longitudinal direction) from the position in the first position.

[00536] And, as shown in part (b3) of Figure 94, when the cartridge B is moved to the complete assembled position, the axis L481 of the coupling member 480 and the axis L451 of the drive side flange 450 are aligned with each other , similarly to Embodiment 3. That is, the coupling member 480 and the main assembly drive shaft 300 are engaged with each other to enable rotation of the coupling member 480. That is, at this time, the position of the coupling member 480 is substantially the same as the first position (projected position).

[00537] In summary, with the mounting of cartridge B to the main assembly A of the apparatus, the rotational axis L481 of the coupling member 480 is aligned with the rotational axis L3 of the main mounting side engagement portion 300. In other words, Upon mounting the cartridge B to the main assembly A of the apparatus, the coupling member 480 receives the force from the main mounting side portion 300 of engagement whereby the coupling member 480 moves from the first position to the second position, and then Furthermore, it returns to the first position by the pressing force F470 of the pressing member 470. In other words, upon mounting the cartridge B to the main assembly A of the apparatus, the coupling member 480 receives the force from the main mounting side engagement portion 300 and the drive side flange 450 by which it moves from the first position to the second position and thereafter returns to the first position by the pressing force F470 of the pressing member 470.

[00538] Referring to Figure 96, the description will be made about the case that the axis L483 of the coupling member 480 is perpendicular to the mounting direction of the cartridge B (arrow X1).

[00539] When cartridge B is moved in the direction of arrow , similarly to the parallel case described above. This state is the initial state of the assembly. The position of the coupling member 480 in the state shown in part (b1) of Figure 96 is a first position (designed position). At this time, the rotational axis L481 of the coupling member 480 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More particularly, the rotational axis L481 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially aligned with each other. The rotational axis L481 of the coupling member 480 is substantially parallel to the axis L451 of the drive side flange 450. More particularly, the rotational axis L481 and the rotational axis L451 are substantially aligned with each other. At this time, the main mounting contact portion 480i receives the force F2 from the free end portion 300b by the assembly of cartridge B. Because the force F2 is directed to the center of the significant spherical surface constituting the main mounting contact portion 480i, it is inclined relative to the L482 axis by an angle θ1. By force F2, the first guide portion 430j4 of the intermediate slider 430 contacts the guide pin 440. Then, the coupling member 480 moves relative to the intermediate slider 430 along the first guide portion 430j4 in the direction of arrow X71.

[00540] As shown in part (b2) of Figure 96, the cylindrical portion 480r1 of the coupling member 980 contacts the cylindrical inner wall portion 430r1 of the intermediate slider 430, such that movement of the coupling member 480 in the direction of X71 be prevented. At this time, in the direction of axis L481, the movement distance of the coupling member 480 from the initial state is N30 (part (b2) of Figure 96). The movement distance N30 is determined by the angle θ4 of the first guide portion 430j1 - first guide portion 430j4 relative to the axis L431 and the opening D10 (part (c) of Figure 87).

[00541] In the state shown in part (b2) of Figure 96, the coupling member 480 is distant from the position in the initial state of the assembly in the direction of arrow X8 by the movement distance N30. At this time, along axis L381, a force of component F2a of force F2 is produced in the direction of arrow X8. With the movement of the cartridge B in the direction of the mounting direction X1, the coupling member 480 further moves in the direction of the arrow can pass through the free end portion 300b of the main assembly drive shaft 300. The position of the coupling member 480 shown in part (b2) of Figure 96 is a second position (retracted position). At this time, the rotational axis L481 of the coupling member 480 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More specifically, there is an opening between the rotational axis L481 and the rotational axis L1 (the rotational axis L481 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially out of alignment). The rotational axis L481 of the coupling member 480 is substantially parallel to the axis L451 of the drive side flange 450. More specifically, there is an opening between the rotational axis L481 and the rotational axis L451 at this time, (the rotational axis L481 and the rotational L1 are substantially out of alignment). In this second position, the coupling member 480 is displaced (moved/retracted) to the photosensitive drum 10 (to the other side of the end portion of the photosensitive drum 10 in the longitudinal direction) from the position in the first position.

[00542] Thereafter, by steps similar to those shown in part (b3) of Figure 94, cartridge B can be moved to the complete assembled position.

[00543] Regarding the operation of transmitting rotational force to the photosensitive drum in this embodiment, the description of Embodiment 2 applies. That is, the coupling member 480 having received the rotational force transmits the rotational force to the intermediate slider 430 from the first rotational force transmitting portions 480g1, 480g2 through the first rotational force receiving portions 430g1, 430g2. The intermediate slider 430 transmits the rotational force to the drive side flange 450 from the second rotational force transmitting portions 430k1, 430k2 to the second rotational force receiving portions 450g1, 450g2. And, the rotational force is transmitted from the drive side flange 450 to the photosensitive drum unit U41.

[00544] Referring to Figure 97 by Figure 99, description will be made of the operation of disengaging the coupling member 480 from the main mounting side engagement portion 300 when the cartridge B is disassembled from the main mounting A of the apparatus.

[00545] Part (a) of Figure 97 and part (a) of Figure 99 show the disassembly direction of cartridge B and the lines along which sectional view S45 and sectional view S46 are shown. Parts (b1) - (b4) of Figure 97 are a section S45 of part (a) of Figure 97, and is a schematic sectional view illustrating the state of the coupling member 480 disengaging from the main mounting side engagement portion 300. Parts (b1) - (b4) of Figure 99 are a section S46 of part (a) of Figure 99, and is a schematic sectional view illustrating the state of the coupling member 480 disengaging from the main mounting side engagement portion 300. Figure 98 is an enlarged view of the roundness of the drive side flange unit U42 of part (b3) of Figure 97. In the sectional view of Figure 97 - Figure 99, the coupling unit U40 is not sectioned, for better illustration. In parts (b1) - (b4) of Figure 97 and Figure 98, the second guide portions 450j1 and 450j2 of the drive side flange 450 are depicted by dashed lines. In parts (b1) - (b3) of Figure 99, the cylindrical inner wall portions 430r1 and 430r2 of the intermediate slider 430 are described by dashed lines. The description will be made by referring to the Figures showing the rotational force receiving portion side 480e2.

[00546] First, as shown in Figure 97, the description will be made about the case that the disassembly direction of the cartridge B (arrow X12) and the axis L483 of the coupling member 480 are parallel to each other.

[00547] The position of the coupling member 480 in the state shown in part (b1) of Figure 97 is the first position (enabled rotational force transmission position). The first position (enabled rotational force transmission position) is substantially the same as the first position (designed position). At this time, the rotational axis L481 of the coupling member 480 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More particularly, the rotational axis L481 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially aligned with each other. The rotational axis L481 of the coupling member 480 is substantially parallel to the axis L451 of the drive side flange 450. More particularly, the rotational axis L481 and the rotational axis L451 are substantially aligned with each other.

[00548] As shown in part (b1) of Figure 97, the cartridge B is moved in the disassembly direction X12 which is substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10 and which is substantially perpendicular to the axis L451 of the drive side flange 450 to be dismantled from the main apparatus assembly A. In the state that the main assembly drive shaft 300 does not rotate after completion of the imaging operation, the drive transmission pin 302 contacts the rotational force receiving portions 480e1, 480e2. The drive transmission pin 302 is located downstream of the rotational force receiving portion 480e2 with respect to the disassembly direction drive bearing 480f of coupling member 480. This is the initial state of disassembly.

[00549] Then, when the cartridge B is moved in the direction of the disassembly direction drive 302 by the operation of disassembling the cartridge B, as shown in part (b2) of Figure 97. The force F5 is perpendicular to the rotational force-receiving portion 480e2, and then it is parallel with the axis L483, which is perpendicular to the force-receiving portion rotational 480e2. By force F5, the cylindrical projection 430m1 of the intermediate slide 430 contacts the second guide portion 450j2 of the drive side flange 450. The coupling unit U40 moves relative to the drive side flange 450 in the direction of arrow X62 along the second portion of guide 450j2.

[00550] At this time, the free end portion 300b of the main assembly drive shaft 300 is spaced from the drive bearing surface 480f of the coupling member 480.

[00551] Here, the rotational force receiving portion 480e2 (and rotational force receiving portion 480e1) are fixed such that the coupling member 480 can move in the direction of the L483 axis by the force F5. In this embodiment, the rotational force receiving portion 380e2 (and rotational force receiving portion 380e1) is the flat surface perpendicular to the L483 axis, and therefore, the direction of the force F5 is parallel with the L483 axis. Therefore, the user can move the cartridge B in the disassembly direction in the direction of arrow X8 by force F5, the transmission projection 480f2 is able to pass through the drive transmission pin 302.

[00552] When the transmission projection 480f2 passes the drive transmission pin 302, the free end portion 300b of the main assembly drive shaft 300 is brought into contact with the drive bearing surface 480f of the coupling member 480, again . When cartridge B is moved further away from this position in the direction of disassembly direction X12, the coupling member 480 receives the force F6 from the free end portion 300b of the main assembly drive shaft 300, as shown in part (b3) of Figure 97 and Figure 98. The force F6 is directed towards the center of the conically shaped portion of the drive bearing surface 480f, and therefore, a force of component F6b of the force F6 is produced in the direction of the axis L483. Therefore, the coupling member 480 moves in the direction of the arrow the cylindrical inner wall portion 450r2. Therefore, the movement of the coupling member 480 relative to the drive side flange 450 in the direction of the axis L483 is limited.

[00553] At this time, the force of component F6a is produced along the arrow X8 in the direction of axis L481. Therefore, when cartridge B is moved further in the disassembly direction X12, the coupling member 480 is moved in the direction of arrow X8 against the pressing force F470 of the pressing member 470 by the component force F6a. Therefore, as shown in part (b4) of Figure 97, the free end portion 300b of the main assembly drive shaft 300 is disengaged from the opening 480m of the coupling member 480.

[00554] The position of the coupling member 480 in part (b4) of Figure 97 is the second position (disengageable position). The second position (disengagement-enabled position) is substantially the same as the first position described above (retracted position). At this time, the rotational axis L481 of the coupling member 480 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More specifically, there is an opening between the rotational axis L481 and the rotational axis L1 (the rotational axis L481 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially out of alignment). The rotational axis L481 of the coupling member 480 is substantially parallel to the axis L451 of the drive side flange 450. More specifically, there is an opening between the rotational axis L481 and the rotational axis L451 at this time, (the rotational axis L481 and the rotational L1 are substantially out of alignment). In this second position, the coupling member 480 is displaced (moved/retracted) to the photosensitive drum 10 (to the other side of the end portion of the photosensitive drum 10 in the longitudinal direction) from the position in the first position.

[00555] In summary, upon disassembly of cartridge B from the main assembly A of the apparatus, the coupling member 480 is disengaged from the main assembly side engagement portion 300. In other words, upon disassembly of cartridge B from the main assembly In the apparatus, the coupling member 480 receives force from the main mounting side engagement portion 300, such that the coupling member 480 moves from the first position to the second position. Furthermore, in other words, upon disassembly of the cartridge B from the main assembly A of the apparatus, the coupling member 280 receives the force from the main mounting side engagement portion 300 and the drive side flange 450 to move from the first position. (rotational force transmission position enabled) to the second position (disengagement enabled position).

[00556] Referring to part (a) of Figure 99, the description will be made about the case that the axis L483 of the coupling member 480 is perpendicular to the disassembly direction X12 of the cartridge B.

[00557] As shown in part (b1) of Figure 99, in the state that the rotation of the main assembly drive shaft 300 has stopped after the completion of the image forming operation, the drive transmission pin 302 contacts the image receiving portions. rotational force 480e1 and 480e2. At this time, the free end portion 300b of the main assembly drive shaft 300 contacts the drive bearing surface 480f of the coupling member 480. This is the initial state of disassembly. The position of the coupling member 480 shown in part (b1) of Figure 99 is also the first position (enabled rotational force transmission position). At this time, the rotational axis L481 of the coupling member 480 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More particularly, the rotational axis L481 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially aligned with each other. The rotational axis L481 of the coupling member 480 is substantially parallel to the axis L451 of the drive side flange 450. More particularly, the rotational axis L481 and the rotational axis L451 are substantially aligned with each other.

[00558] The position of the middle cursor 430 in part (b1) of Figure 99 is a first middle position. At this time, a rotational axis L431 of the intermediate slider 430 is substantially parallel with the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More particularly, the rotational axis L431 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially aligned with each other. Furthermore, the rotational axis L431 of the intermediate slide 430 is substantially parallel to the axis L451 of the drive side flange 450. More particularly, the rotational axis L431 and the rotational axis L451 are substantially aligned with each other.

[00559] When cartridge B is moved in the direction of disassembly direction X12, the coupling member 480 moves in the direction of disassembly direction X12 together with the drive side flange 450 and the intermediate slider 430. As shown in part (b2) of Figure 99, the coupling member 480 receives the force F9 from the free end portion 300b of the main assembly drive shaft 300 by the operation of disassembling the cartridge B. By the force F9, the coupling member 480 moves relative to the intermediate slide 430 and the drive side flange 450 in the direction of arrow X72 along the first guide portion 430j2 while the guide pin 440 maintains contact with the first guide portion 430j1 of the intermediate slide 430.

[00560] When cartridge B is moved further in the disassembly direction Figure 99. Therefore, the movement of the coupling member 480 relative to the drive side flange 450 and the intermediate slide 430 in the direction of arrow X72 is regulated. At this time, the coupling member 480 receives the force F10 from the free end portion 300b by the operation of disassembling the cartridge B. The force F10 is directed to the center of the spherical surface of the free end portion 300b, and therefore, a force of component F10a is produced along arrow X8 in the direction of axis L481. When the cartridge B is moved further in the disassembly direction X12, the coupling member 480 is moved further in the direction of arrow 99, by movement of the coupling member 480 in the direction of arrow X8 by the force of component F10a, the transmission projection 480f2 is able to pass the drive transmission pin 302. main assembly 300 disengages from opening 480m of coupling member 480.

[00561] The position of the coupling member 480 shown in part (b4) of Figure 99 is also the second position (disengagement enabled position). At this time, the rotational axis L481 of the coupling member 480 is substantially parallel to the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More specifically, there is an opening between the rotational axis L481 and the rotational axis L1 (the rotational axis L481 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially out of alignment). The rotational axis L481 of the coupling member 480 is substantially parallel to the axis L451 of the drive side flange 450. More specifically, there is an opening between the rotational axis L481 and the rotational axis L451 at this time, (the rotational axis L481 and the rotational L1 are substantially out of alignment). In this second position, the coupling member 480 is displaced (moved/retracted) to the photosensitive drum 10 (to the other side of the end portion of the photosensitive drum 10 in the longitudinal direction) from the position in the first position.

[00562] The position of the intermediate cursor 430 shown in part (b4) of Figure 99 is a second median position. At this time, a rotational axis L431 of the intermediate slider 430 is substantially parallel with the rotational axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 10. More specifically, there is an opening between the rotational axis L431 and the rotational axis L1 (the rotational axis L431 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially out of alignment). Furthermore, the rotational axis L431 of the intermediate slide 430 is substantially parallel to the axis L451 of the drive side flange 450. More specifically, there is an opening between the rotational axis L431 and the rotational axis L451 at this time, (the rotational axis L431 and the rotational axis L1 are substantially out of alignment). In the second position, the intermediate slider 430 is displaced (moved/retracted) towards the photosensitive drum 10 (to the other side of the end portion of the photosensitive drum 10 with respect to the longitudinal direction) when compared to the first position.

[00563] In summary, upon disassembly of cartridge B from the main assembly A of the apparatus, the coupling member 480 is disengaged from the main assembly side engagement portion 300. In other words, upon disassembly of cartridge B from the main assembly In the apparatus, the coupling member 480 receives force from the main mounting side engagement portion 300, such that the coupling member 480 moves from the first position to the second position. Furthermore, in other words, upon disassembly of the cartridge B from the main assembly A of the apparatus, the coupling member 480 receives the force from the main mounting side engagement portion 300 and the drive side flange 450 to move from the first position. (rotational force transmission position enabled) to the second position (disengagement enabled position).

[00564] In the foregoing, the description was made about the case in which the disassembly direction 12 of the cartridge B is parallel with the axis L483 of the coupling member 480, as an example. However, the coupling member 480 can similarly be removed even from the main mounting side engagement portion 300 when the direction of disassembly is different from those described in the foregoing. In such a case, upon disassembly of cartridge B, one of the transmission projections 480f1 and 480f2 contacts the drive transmission pin 302. Or, the free end portion 300b of the main assembly drive shaft 300 contacts the drive bearing surface 480f of the coupling member 480. Furthermore, one of the inner surface projection of the transmission 480f1 and the inner surface 480f4 of the transmission projection 480f2 contacts the free end portion 300b of the main assembly drive shaft 300. Then, the coupling member 480f coupling 280 receives any of the force F5, F6 and force F9, F10 to move relative to the drive side flange 450 in the direction of arrow X8 so that it can disengage from the main assembly drive shaft 300.

[00565] That is, cartridge B can be disassembled from the main assembly A of the apparatus regardless of the phase rotation of the coupling member 480 and the main assembly side engagement portion 400 relative to the direction of disassembly of cartridge B from the main assembly That of the device.

[00566] As described above, in this embodiment, the coupling member 480 is movable in any direction perpendicular to the axis L481 in addition to the operation in Embodiment 3. That is, the same advantageous effects as with Embodiment 3 are provided, and the latitude of design for the configuration of the rotational force receiving portion is increased.

Other achievements

[00567] In the preceding embodiments, the coupling member 180 is for transmitting the rotational force from the main mounting side engagement portion 100 to the photosensitive drum 10. However, the present invention is not limited to such a case. For example, referring to Figures 55 and 56, the cartridge B including the photosensitive drum 10, the rotational force is transmitted from the main assembly A of the apparatus to a rotating member other than the photosensitive drum 10. Part (a) of Figure 55 and Part (b) of Figure 55 is a schematic perspective view of the cartridge B including the first frame unit 1518 and the first frame unit 1618. Part (c) of Figure 55 is a sectional view of the first frame unit 1518 and the first frame unit 1618 taken along a line S151 of part (a) of Figure 55 and along a line S161 of part (b) of Figure 55, respectively. Part (a) of Figure 56 and part (b) of Figure 56 are schematic perspective views of cartridge B including the first frame unit 1718 and the first frame unit 1818. Part (c) of Figure 56 is a schematic sectional view of the first frame unit 1718 and the first frame unit 1818 taken along a line S171 of part (a) of Figure 56 and along a line S182 of part (b) of Figure 56, respectively.

[00568] As shown in Figures 55, 56, a second frame unit 1519, a second frame unit 1619, a second frame unit 1719 and a second frame unit 1819 of cartridge B include mechanisms for transmitting the driving force to the photosensitive drum 10 (not shown). The mechanisms may be one of drive side flange units U1581(U1781) similar to the first embodiment as shown in part (a) of Figure 55 or as shown in part (a) of Figure 56 and another drive transmitting portion 1680 ( 1880) other than the present invention, as shown in part (b) of Figure 55 and part (b) of Figure 56. The first frame unit 1518 and the second frame unit 1618 have similar structures, and therefore, the description only will be made about the first frame unit 1518. Furthermore, the first frame unit 1718 and the first frame unit 1818 have similar structures, and therefore, the description will only be made about the first frame unit 1718.

[00569] As shown in part (c) of Figure 55, a drive side flange 1530 as a rotational transmission member is provided coaxially to the rotational axis of the developing roller 13, as the structure for transmitting the rotational force to a minimum provided on the first frame unit 1518. The drive side flange 1530 is provided with a hollow portion 1530f similar to the embodiments described above (Embodiments 1 - 4). In the hollow portion 1530f, a coupling member 1540, a slider 1560, a pressing member 1570 and so on are provided similarly to the first and second embodiments. The drive side flange 1530 transmits the rotational force integrally to the developing roller 13 by the developing flange 1520 fixed to the developing roller 13. Here, the drive side flange 1530 can transmit the rotational force of the driving side flange 1530 to the developing flange 1520 by engagement with the developing flange 1520. Alternatively, rotational force can be transmitted from the drive side flange 1530 to the developing flange 1520 by connecting the driving side flange 1530 and the developing flange 1520 using gluing. , welding or similar. In such structures, the present invention can be appropriately applied.

[00570] As shown in Figure 56, a drive side flange 1730 as the rotational force for the transmission member cannot be provided with a coaxial position of the rotational axis of the developing roller 13, and a coupling member 1740 or the like may be provided in the hollow portion 1730f of the drive side flange 1730. In such a case, a developing roller gear 1710 as another rotational force transmission member integrally rotatable with the developing roller 13 is provided coaxially to the rotational axis of the roller development roller 13. By engagement between a gear portion 1730a of the drive side flange 1730 and the gear 1710a of the developing roller gear 1710, rotational force is transmitted to the developing roller 13. In addition, a different rotating member 1720 The developing roller 13 may be provided in the first frame unit 1718, and the rotational force may be transmitted to the rotating member 1720 of the gear portion 1730a by a gear portion 1720a of the rotating member 1720. In such structures, the present invention can be applied appropriately.

[00571] Cartridge B of the preceding embodiments includes the photosensitive drum 10 and the plurality of process means. However, the present invention is not limited to such a case. The present invention is applicable to another type of cartridge B, that is, a process cartridge including the photosensitive drum 10 and at least one of process means, for example. Therefore, in addition to the above-described embodiments of the process cartridge, the present invention is applicable to a process cartridge including the photosensitive drum 10 and loading means as the process means that are unified in a cartridge. In another example, the process cartridge may include the photosensitive drum 10 and the loading means and cleaning means as the process means that are unified in a cartridge. In a further example, the process cartridge may include the photosensitive drum 10, developing means, loading means and cleaning means as the process means that are unified in a cartridge.

[00572] In the preceding embodiments (Embodiments 1 - 4), cartridge B includes the photosensitive drum 10. However, the present invention is not limited to such a case. In a further type of cartridge B, as shown in Figure 57, for example, the cartridge may not include the photosensitive drum, but may include the developing roller 13, to which the present invention is suitably applicable. In such a case, self-selection will be made from the structure (part (a) of Figure 57) in which the drive side flange 1930, the drive side flange 2030 and the coupling member 1940, the coupling member 2040 are provided coaxially to the rotational axis of the developing roller 13 and the frame (part (b) of Figure 57) in which they are not coaxial with the rotational axis of the developing roller 13.

[00573] Cartridge B in the preceding embodiments is for forming a monochrome image. However, the present invention is not limited to such a case. The present invention is suitably applicable to a cartridge or cartridges including various developing means intended to form multiple color images (e.g., two-color image, three-color or full-color image, or the like).

[00574] The assembly and disassembly path of the cartridge B relative to the main assembly A of the apparatus may be a line, a combination of lines, a curved line, which in the case of the present invention is appropriately applicable.

[00575] As described in the foregoing, in accordance with the present invention, the process cartridge may be mounted to the main assembly in a direction substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis of the photosensitive drum, the main assembly not being provided with a mechanism for moving the portion main mounting side coupling provided on the main mounting of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus for transmitting the rotational force to the photosensitive drum, in the direction of the rotational axis of the photosensitive drum in interrelation with the operation of opening and closing the main mounting cover of the main assembly.

[00576] Furthermore, in accordance with the present invention, the process cartridge may be mounted or dismounted from the main assembly in a direction substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis of the photosensitive drum, with reduced load necessitated by the rotations of the photosensitive drum and the portion of main mount side engagement, the main mount not being provided with a mechanism for moving the main mount side engagement portion provided on the main mount of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus to transmit the rotational force to the photosensitive drum in the direction of the axis rotational rotation of the photosensitive drum in interrelation with the opening and closing operation of the main assembly cover of the main assembly

[00577] The present invention is applicable to a process cartridge, a photosensitive drum unit, a developing unit and an electrophotographic image forming apparatus.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[00578] In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a cartridge and a photosensitive member unit that is detachable from (or mountable to) a main assembly of the image forming apparatus including a rotatable member such as an image-bearing member, in a predetermined direction that is substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis of the rotating member.

[00579] Reference numerals A: main assembly (main assembly of the image forming apparatus) B: cartridge (process cartridge) 10: photosensitive drum 100, 101, 201: main assembly side engagement portion 108: side plate 150 , 250: drive side flange 160, 260: slider 170, 270: pressing member 180, 181, 280, 281: coupling member 191, 192, 291, 292: retaining pin 230: intermediate slider 240: guiding pin U1 : photosensitive drum unit U2, U22: drive side flange unit U23: coupling unit

Claims (34)

1. Cartridge (B) detachable from a main assembly (A) of electrophotographic image forming apparatus including a rotatable main assembly side engagement portion (100, 201, 300), said cartridge (B) comprising: i) a rotatable member (10, 310) capable of carrying a developer (t) and having a rotational axis (L1) extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to a disassembly direction of said cartridge (B); ii) a coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480) provided on an end portion of said cartridge (B) with respect to the rotational axis (L1) for transmitting a rotational force from the main mounting side engagement portion ( 100, 201, 300), for said rotating member (10, 310); and iii) a rotational force transmission member (150, 230, 250, 350, 430, 450), for transmitting rotational force from said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480) toward said rotatable member ( 10, 310), including a hollow portion (150f, 250f, 350f, 450f), wherein said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480) is movable between a first position in which a rotational axis (L181, L281 , L381, L481) of said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480) is substantially parallel to the rotational axis (L1) of said rotary member (10, 310), and a second position offset from the first position, wherein the said rotational force transmission member (150, 230, 250, 350, 430, 450) is provided with a guide portion (150j, 230j, 350j, 430j) for guiding said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480), and the coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480) is provided with a portion to be guided (180j, 240, 380j, 440) to be guided by said rotational force transmission member (150, 230, 250, 350, 430, 450), and wherein at least one of said guiding portion (150j, 230j, 350j, 430j) and said portion to be guided (180j, 240, 380j, 440) is an inclined portion which is inclined with respect to the rotational axis (L1) of said rotating member (10) and with respect to the direction perpendicular to the rotational axis (L1) of said rotating member (10), characterized by the fact that said second position is a position in which the rotational axis (L181, L281, L381, L481) of said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480) is substantially parallel to the rotational axis (L1) of said rotatable member (10, 310) and which the said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480) is displaced within said hollow portion (150f, 250f, 350f, 450f) as viewed along the axis of said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480 ), from the first position both in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis (L1) of said rotatable member (10, 310) and in a direction from the rotational axis (L1) of said rotatable member (10, 310) toward the other portion of end of said cartridge (B), and wherein said guide portion (150j, 230j, 350j, 430j) guides said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480) to move between said first position and said second position in a direction inclined with respect to the rotational axis (L1) of said rotating member (10, 310) and inclined with respect to the direction perpendicular to the rotational axis (L1) of said rotating member (10, 310). 2. Cartridge (B) according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that with movement of the rotational axis (L181, L281, L381, L481) of said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480) away from its position taken in the first position, said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480) moves to the other end of said cartridge (B) in the direction of the rotational axis (L1) of said rotating member (10, 310). 3. Cartridge (B) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that by movement of said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480) from the first position to the second position with the disassembly of said cartridge ( B), said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480) is disengaged from the main mounting side engagement portion (100, 201, 300). 4. Cartridge (B) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by the fact that upon disassembly of said cartridge (B), said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480) receives a force from the main mounting side engagement portion (100, 201, 300) to move from the first position to the second position. 5. Cartridge (B) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by the fact that, in the first position, the rotational axis (L181, L281, L381, L481) of said coupling member (180, 280, 380 , 480) is aligned with the rotational axis (L1) of said rotating member (10, 310), and in the second position, the rotational axis (L181, L281, L381, L481) of said coupling member (180, 280, 380 , 480) is substantially parallel with and offset from the rotational axis (L1) of said rotary member (150, 230, 250, 350, 430, 450), and said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480) is more closer to the other end portion of said cartridge (B) than in the first position with respect to the direction of the rotational axis (L181, L281, L381, L481) of said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480). 6. Cartridge (B) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by the fact that upon disassembly of said cartridge (B), said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480) receives forces from the portion of main mounting side engagement member (100, 201, 300) and said rotational force transmission member (150, 230, 250, 350, 430, 450) to move from the first position to the second position. 7. Cartridge (B) according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that said guide portion (150j, 230j, 350j, 430j) is said inclined portion. 8. Cartridge (B) according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that said portion to be guided (180j, 240, 380j, 440) is said inclined portion. 9. Cartridge (B) according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that each of said guiding portion (150j, 230j, 350j, 430j) and said portion to be guided (180j, 240, 380j, 440) is the so-called inclined portion. 10. Cartridge (B) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that said rotational force transmission member (250, 230, 450, 430) includes a rotational force transmission part (250, 450) and an intermediate transmission part (230, 430) for transmitting rotational force from the coupling member (280, 480) to the rotational force transmission part (250, 450), wherein said intermediate transmission part (230 , 430) is movable between a first median position in which a rotational axis (L231, L431) of said intermediate transmission part (230, 430) and a rotational axis (L251, L451) of said rotational force transmission part (250 , 450) are substantially aligned, and a second median position in which the rotational axis (L231, L431) of said intermediate transmission part (230, 430) and the rotational axis (L251, L451) of said rotational force transmission part (250, 450) are substantially parallel with and offset from each other, and wherein said intermediate transmission part (230, 430) is away from the first median position towards the other end portion of said cartridge (B) with respect to to the rotational axis (L251, L451) of said rotational force transmission part (250, 450). 11. Cartridge (B) according to claim 10, characterized by the fact that one of said intermediate transmission part (230, 430) and said rotational force transmission part (250, 450) is provided with a portion additional inclined portion (250j, 450j), and the other of said intermediate transmission part (230, 430) and said rotational force transmission part (250, 450) is provided with an additional contact portion (230m, 430m ) contactable to the additional inclined portion (250j, 450j). 12. Cartridge (B) according to claim 11, characterized in that said intermediate transmission part (230, 430) moves from the first intermediate position to the second intermediate position along the additional inclined portion (250j, 450j) while the additional contact portion (230m, 430m) is in contact with the additional inclined portion (250j). 13. Cartridge (B) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the additional contact portion (230m, 430m) is also inclined corresponding to the additional inclined portion (250j, 450j). 14. Cartridge (B) according to any one of claims 10 to 13, characterized in that when viewed along the rotational axis (L251, L451) of said rotational force transmission part (250, 450), a direction of movement of said intermediate transmission part (230, 430) relative to said rotational force transmission part (250, 450) and a direction of movement of said coupling member (280, 480) relative to said intermediate transmission part (230, 430) cross each other. 15. Cartridge (B) according to claim 14, characterized by the fact that when viewed along the rotational axis (L251, L451) of said rotational force transmission member (250,450), the direction of movement of said part of intermediate transmission (230, 430) relative to said rotational force transmission part (250, 450) and the direction of movement of said coupling member (280, 480) relative to said intermediate transmission part (230, 430) substantially intersect each other. 16. Cartridge (B) according to any one of claims 5 to 15, characterized in that it additionally comprises a retention member (160, 260, 360, 460), movably provided on said rotational force transmission member (150 , 230, 250, 350, 430, 450), to movably retain said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480). 17. Cartridge (B) according to claim 16, characterized by the fact that said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480) is movable with respect to said retention member (160, 260, 360, 460) substantially in the direction of the rotational axis (L151, L251, L351, L451) of said rotational force transmission member (150, 230, 250, 350, 430, 450). 18. Cartridge (B) according to claim 17, characterized by the fact that said retention member (160, 260, 360, 460) is movable relative to said rotational force transmission member (150, 230, 250, 350, 430, 450) in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of the rotational axis (L151, L251, L351, L451) of said rotational force transmission member (150, 230, 250, 350, 430, 450). 19. Cartridge (B) according to any one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that it additionally comprises a pressing member (170, 270, 370, 470), provided between said retaining member (160, 260, 360 , 460) and said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480), to drive said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480). 20. Cartridge (B) according to claim 19, characterized in that said pressing member (170, 270, 370, 470) includes an elastic member. 21. Cartridge (B) according to claim 20, characterized in that said elastic member is a spring. 22. Cartridge (B) according to any one of claims 1 to 21, characterized in that said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480) includes a retraction force receiving portion (180b2, 181a3, 181a4 , 380f, 480f) to receive a retraction force to retract away from the main mounting side engagement portion (100, 201) with disassembly of said cartridge (B). 23. Cartridge (B) according to claim 22, characterized in that said retraction force receiving portion (180b2, 181a3, 181a4, 380f, 480f) is provided in a free end portion of said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480). 24. Cartridge (B) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that it additionally comprises a pressing member (170, 270, 370, 470) for urging said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480) to the main mounting side engagement portion (100, 201, 300). 25. Cartridge (B) according to claim 24, characterized in that said pressing member (170, 270, 370, 470) includes an elastic member. 26. Cartridge (B) according to claim 25, characterized in that said elastic member is a spring. 27. Cartridge (B) according to any one of claims 1 to 26, characterized in that said rotatable member (10, 310) is a photosensitive member (10, 310) capable of forming a latent image therein. 28. Cartridge (B) according to claim 27, characterized in that said rotational force transmission member (150, 250, 350, 450) is a flange mounted to said photosensitive member (10, 310). 29. Cartridge (B) according to claim 28, characterized in that it additionally comprises a developing roller for developing the latent image, wherein said flange is provided with a gear (150c, 350c) for transmitting the rotational force to a developing scroll (13, 313). 30. Cartridge (B) according to any one of claims 1 to 26, characterized in that said rotating member (10, 310) is a developing roller (13, 313). 31. Cartridge (B) according to claim 30, characterized in that said rotational force transmission member (350) is provided with a gear (350c) for transmitting rotational force to said developing roller (313) . 32. Cartridge (B) according to claim 30 or 31, characterized in that it further comprises an additional rotational force transmission member mounted to said developing roller (313), wherein rotational force is transmitted to said roller revealing (313) of said rotational force transmission member (350) to said additional rotational force transmission member. 33. Cartridge (B) according to any one of claims 1 to 32, characterized in that said coupling member (180, 280, 380, 480) includes an end portion provided with a rotational force receiving portion ( 180b3, 181a1, 181a2, 280b3, 280a3, 280b3, 380e1, 380e2, 480e1, 480e2) to receive the rotational force of the main mounting side engagement portion (100, 201, 300), an opposite end portion, and a connecting portion connecting said one end portion and said other end portion to each other. 34. Cartridge (B) according to claim 33, characterized in that a predetermined section of said connecting portion carried along a plane perpendicular to the rotational axis (L181, L281) of said coupling member (180, 280 ) has a maximum radius of rotation that is less than a distance between said rotational force receiving portion (180b2, 280b2) and the rotational axis (L181, L281) of said coupling member.