CN117706896A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

An image forming apparatus includes an apparatus main body, a drawer unit, and a transfer device including a belt. The drawer unit includes a first cartridge detachably attached to a supporting member, and a first photosensitive drum provided on the supporting member or the first cartridge. The drawer unit moves to a first inner position inside the apparatus body and a first outer position outside the apparatus body. The transfer device moves to a second inner position inside the apparatus body and a second outer position outside the apparatus body. The belt contacts the first photosensitive drum with the transfer device in the second internal position. The transfer device moves from the second inner position to the second outer position when the drawer unit moves from the first inner position to the first outer position.

Description

Image forming apparatus

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to an image forming apparatus that forms an image on a recording material.

Background

Some image forming apparatuses (including printers, copiers, and multifunction peripherals) may include a cartridge detachably attached to a tray that moves between the inside and the outside of an apparatus main body.

Japanese patent application laid-open No.2010-244018 discusses an image forming apparatus including a tray to which a cartridge is detachably attached and a fixing device. The tray may be removed from the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus through a plurality of openings.

Japanese patent application laid-open No.2015-206897 discusses an image forming apparatus including a tray to which a cartridge is detachably attached, a transfer unit, and a fixing device. According to japanese patent application laid-open No.2015-206897, the tray and the transfer unit can be moved from the inside to the outside of the image forming apparatus. Specifically, the fixing device is provided at one end side of the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus. When the transfer unit is removed from the apparatus main body, the transfer unit moves in a direction from the other end side of the apparatus main body to the one end side. In contrast, when the tray is removed from the apparatus main body, the tray moves in a direction from the one end side to the other end side of the apparatus main body.

Disclosure of Invention

The present disclosure is directed to further developing conventional technologies.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an image forming apparatus configured to form an image on a recording material includes: an apparatus main body; a drawer unit including (i) a first cartridge, (ii) a support member to which the first cartridge is detachably attached, and (iii) a first photosensitive drum provided on the support member or the first cartridge, wherein the drawer unit is configured to move to a first internal position inside the apparatus main body and a first external position outside the apparatus main body; and a transfer device including a belt, wherein the transfer device is configured to move to a second internal position inside the apparatus main body and a second external position outside the apparatus main body, the belt being configured to contact the first photosensitive drum with the transfer device in the second internal position, and wherein the transfer device is configured to move from the second internal position to the second external position when the drawer unit moves from the first internal position to the first external position.

Other features of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments, which refers to the accompanying drawings.

Drawings

Fig. 1 shows the overall configuration of a printer according to the first exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 2 is a diagram showing a printer according to the first exemplary embodiment with a door opened.

Fig. 3 is a diagram showing a printer according to the first exemplary embodiment in a case where the fixing device is moved.

Fig. 4 is a diagram showing the printer according to the first exemplary embodiment when the transfer unit and the tray unit are pulled out.

Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the printer according to the first exemplary embodiment in the case where the transfer unit is pulled out alone.

Fig. 6 illustrates movement of the transfer unit and the tray unit according to the first exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 7 illustrates movement of the transfer unit and the tray unit according to the first exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 8 illustrates a coupling member coupling a tray of a tray unit with a transfer unit according to the first exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 9 shows a coupling member coupling a tray of a tray unit with a transfer unit according to the first exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 10 illustrates a coupling member coupling a tray of a tray unit with a transfer unit according to the first exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 11A to 11D show a tray unit according to a modification.

Fig. 12 shows the overall configuration of the printer according to the second exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 13 is a diagram showing a printer according to the second exemplary embodiment in a case where the door, the fixing device, and the transfer unit are moved.

Fig. 14 is a diagram showing a printer according to the second exemplary embodiment in a state where the tray unit is pulled out.

Fig. 15 is a diagram showing a printer according to the third exemplary embodiment in a case where the door, the fixing device, and the cleaning unit are moved.

Fig. 16 is a diagram showing a printer according to the third exemplary embodiment in a state where the tray unit is pulled out.

Fig. 17 shows the overall configuration of the printer according to the fourth exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 18 is a diagram showing a printer according to the fourth exemplary embodiment in a case where the door and the transfer unit are moved.

Fig. 19 is a diagram showing a printer according to the fourth exemplary embodiment in a state where the tray unit is pulled out.

Fig. 20 shows the overall configuration of the printer according to the fifth exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 21 is a diagram showing a printer according to the fifth exemplary embodiment in a case where the door and the fixing device are moved.

Fig. 22 is a diagram showing a printer according to the fifth exemplary embodiment in a state where the tray unit is pulled out.

Fig. 23 shows the overall configuration of a printer according to the sixth exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 24 is an overall view in which the door, the transfer unit, and the conveying unit are moved according to the sixth exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 25 is an overall view showing a sixth exemplary embodiment in which the tray unit is pulled out.

Detailed Description

Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the size, materials, shape, and relative arrangement of the components described in the exemplary embodiments may be appropriately changed according to the configuration and various conditions of the apparatus to which the exemplary embodiments are applied. In other words, the scope of the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the following exemplary embodiments.

[ general Structure ]

The first exemplary embodiment will be described. A printer 1 as an image forming apparatus will be described with reference to fig. 1. Fig. 1 shows the overall configuration of a printer 1 according to the present exemplary embodiment. In the present exemplary embodiment, the printer 1 is an electrophotographic color laser beam printer that forms an image on a sheet S serving as a recording material.

The printer 1 includes an apparatus main body (housing) 1A, a scanner (exposure device) 2, a control unit 3, and a door (opening and closing member) 20 openable and closable with respect to the apparatus main body 1A. The printer 1 further includes a sheet feeding unit 30, a transfer unit (transfer device) 40, a tray unit (moving unit or supporting unit) 50, and a fixing device 80. The portion including the apparatus body 1A and the door 20 may be referred to as a main frame 100. The main frame 100 includes an outer cover portion of the printer 1.

The apparatus main body 1A houses a scanner 2, a control unit 3, a sheet feeding unit 30, a transfer unit 40, a tray unit 50, and a fixing device 80.

The sheet feeding unit 30 includes a stack tray 31 in which sheets S serving as recording materials are stacked, and a feed roller 32. The stack tray 31 may be pulled out in a direction toward the door 20 and the sheets S may be replenished thereto.

The tray unit 50 includes a tray (support member or drawer) 51 and cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK. The tray 51 includes a tray handle 52. The cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK are detachably attached to the tray 51.

The cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK can be attached to and detached from the tray 51 independently of each other. The cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK contain toners (developers) of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K), respectively. The cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK have the same configuration except for accommodating toners of different colors. Therefore, the configuration and operation of one of the cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK will be described in some cases, and the description of the other cartridges will be omitted. If it is not necessary to distinguish the cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK, the cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK may be simply referred to as cartridge P. The tray unit 50 can be said to include a plurality of cartridges P and a tray 51 to which the plurality of cartridges P can be detachably attached.

In the present exemplary embodiment, the tray unit 50 includes a plurality of photosensitive drums (image bearing members) 61, a plurality of charging rollers (charging members) 62, and a plurality of developing rollers (developer bearing members) 71. Specifically, the tray unit 50 includes four photosensitive drums 61, four charging rollers 62, and four developing rollers 71. The direction of the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 61, the direction of the rotation axis of the developing roller 71, and the direction of the rotation axis of the charging roller 62 are parallel.

The portion forming the K image will be referred to as a K station (first station). The photosensitive drum 61 of the first station will be referred to as a first photosensitive drum, the developing roller 71 will be referred to as a first developing roller, and the charging roller 62 will be referred to as a first charging roller.

The portion forming the C image will be referred to as a C station (second station). The photosensitive drum 61 of the second station will be referred to as a second photosensitive drum, the developing roller 71 will be referred to as a second developing roller, and the charging roller 62 will be referred to as a second charging roller.

The portion forming the M image will be referred to as an M station (third station). The photosensitive drum 61 of the third station will be referred to as a third photosensitive drum, the developing roller 71 will be referred to as a third developing roller, and the charging roller 62 will be referred to as a third charging roller.

The portion forming the Y image will be referred to as a Y station (fourth station). The photosensitive drum 61 of the fourth station will be referred to as a fourth photosensitive drum, the developing roller 71 will be referred to as a fourth developing roller, and the charging roller 62 will be referred to as a fourth charging roller.

The cartridge PK is attached to the K station, the cartridge PC is attached to the C station, the cartridge PM is attached to the M station, and the cartridge PY is attached to the Y station. In the present exemplary embodiment, the cartridge PK will be referred to as a first cartridge, the cartridge PC will be referred to as a second cartridge, the cartridge PM will be referred to as a third cartridge, and the cartridge PY will be referred to as a fourth cartridge.

The ordinal terms first, second, third and fourth are used for descriptive convenience.

The photosensitive drum 61, the charging roller 62, and the developing roller 71 may be provided in the cartridge P or on the tray 51. In the present exemplary embodiment, the cartridge P includes the photosensitive drum 61, the charging roller 62, and the developing roller 71.

The transfer unit 40 includes a belt 41, a primary transfer roller 42, a cleaning unit 43, a driving roller 46 for driving the belt 41, and a tension roller (driven roller) 47. The printer 1 according to the present exemplary embodiment includes an optical sensor 44 for detecting the toner image transferred to the belt 41. In the present exemplary embodiment, the belt 41 is disposed below the photosensitive drum 61, and is capable of contacting the photosensitive drum 61 to form a primary transfer portion between the belt 41 and the photosensitive drum 61. The printer 1 further includes a secondary transfer roller 45 that contacts the belt 41 to form a secondary transfer portion. The secondary transfer portion is formed between the belt 41 and the secondary transfer roller 45. The direction of the rotation axis of the primary transfer roller 42, the direction of the rotation axis of the driving roller 46, the direction of the rotation axis of the tension roller 47, and the direction of the rotation axis of the secondary transfer roller 45 are parallel. The registration roller pair 4 is arranged in front of the secondary transfer portion.

The fixing device 80 includes a fixing unit 81 and a shutter 5. When an image forming operation is performed on the sheet S, the fixing device 80 is in the use position. The fixing device 80 is housed in (inside) the apparatus main body 1A at the use position. The fixing device 80 is configured to heat the sheet S at the use position. In the present exemplary embodiment, the fixing unit 81 includes a heating unit (heating roller) including a heater and a pressing unit (pressing roller).

The movement of the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 will be described with reference to fig. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing the printer 1 in a state where the door 20 is opened. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing the printer 1 in the case where the fixing device 80 is moved. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing the printer 1 in a state where the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 are pulled out. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the printer 1 in the case where only the transfer unit 40 is pulled out.

The transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 can be moved from the inside to the outside of the apparatus main body 1A. The apparatus main body 1A has a first end 1b1 provided with an opening (main body opening) 1A1 and a second end 1b2 opposite to the first end 1b1 in the horizontal direction H. The tray unit 50 can be moved to a first inner position inside the apparatus main body 1A and a first outer position outside the apparatus main body 1A through the opening 1 A1. The transfer unit 40 can be moved to a second inner position inside the apparatus main body 1A and a second outer position outside the apparatus main body 1A through the opening 1 A1. The opening 1A1 may include an opening through which the tray unit 50 passes and an opening through which the transfer unit 40 passes. When the transfer unit 40 moves from the second inner position to the second outer position, at least the belt 41 moves such that at least a portion of the belt 41 protrudes outward from the apparatus main body 1A.

The direction in which the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position to the first outer position will be referred to as a tray detaching direction Dd1. The direction opposite to the tray detaching direction Dd1 will be referred to as the tray attaching direction Da1. The tray detaching direction Dd1 can be said to be a direction from the second end 1b2 to the first end 1b 1.

The direction in which the transfer unit 40 moves from the second inner position to the second outer position will be referred to as a transfer detaching direction Dd2. The direction opposite to the transfer detaching direction Dd2 is referred to as a transfer attaching direction Da2. The driving roller 46 is disposed downstream of the tension roller 47 in the transfer detaching direction Dd2. The transfer detaching direction Dd2 can be said to be a direction from the second end 1b2 to the first end 1b 1.

The tray detaching direction Dd1 and the tray attaching direction Da1 are directions intersecting (desirably, orthogonal to) the rotation axis direction of the photosensitive drum 61. The transfer detaching direction Dd2 and the transfer attaching direction Da2 are directions intersecting (desirably, orthogonal to) the rotation axis direction of the driving roller 46. The rotation axis direction of the driving roller 46 is parallel to the rotation axis direction of the photosensitive drum 61.

The fixing device 80 is provided on one end side (the side where the first end 1b1 is located) of the apparatus main body 1A in the horizontal direction H.

The door 20 attached to the apparatus main body 1A is movable between a closed position and an open position. As shown in fig. 1, in the closed position (the closed state of the door 20), the door 20 covers the opening 1A1. As shown in fig. 2, in the open position (the open state of the door 20), the opening 1A1 is exposed.

As shown in fig. 1, with the door 20 in the closed position, the door 20 covers the fixing device 80 attached to the apparatus main body 1A. More specifically, with the door 20 in the closed position, the upper cover portion 20b of the door 20 is located above the fixing device 80. The upper cover portion 20b of the door 20 has a function as a part of the outer cover portion.

The door 20 can be moved to the open position and the closed position with the fixing device 80 supported by the apparatus main body 1A. In other words, as the door 20 is separated from (away from) the fixing device 80 supported by the apparatus main body 1A, the door moves from the closed position to the open position. As shown in fig. 2, the door 20 is in the open position, and the door 20 is away from the fixing device 80 supported by the main body 1A.

As will be described below, the fixing device 80 can be moved from the state of fig. 2 to the state of fig. 3 so that the opening 1A1 is exposed widely. In the case where the door 20 and the fixing device 80 are moved (fig. 3), the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 can be moved from the inside to the outside of the apparatus main body 1A through the opening 1 A1. Fig. 4 shows a state after movement.

In the case where the tray unit 50 is removed from the apparatus main body 1A (fig. 4), the cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK can be detached from the tray 51, and can be attached to the tray 51. The cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK can thereby be replaced with new cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK. In the present exemplary embodiment, the cartridges P can be attached to and detached from the tray 51 in a direction intersecting (desirably, orthogonal to) the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 61. The cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK are detached from the tray 51 by being moved in a direction away from the transfer unit 40. In other words, the cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK are detached from the tray 51 by moving them in the opposite direction to the transfer unit 40. In the present exemplary embodiment, the transfer unit 40 is disposed below the tray unit 50. The cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK are detached from the tray 51 by being moved upward from the tray 51.

Further, the transfer unit 40 is detachable from the apparatus main body 1A independently of the tray unit 50, and can be replaced with a new transfer unit 40.

[ imaging operation ]

The image forming operation of the printer 1 will be described with reference to fig. 1. The control unit 3 of the printer 1 starts an image forming operation on the sheet S based on the image signal received from the external host device 400. Examples of the external host device 400 include a personal computer, an image reader, and a facsimile machine.

When image formation is performed on the sheet S, the fixing device 80 is positioned at the use position, the tray unit 50 is positioned at the first internal position, the transfer unit 40 is positioned at the second internal position, and the door 20 is positioned at the closed position. With the transfer unit 40 in the second internal position, the belt 41 can contact the photosensitive drum 61. Here, the tray unit 50 is located above the transfer unit 40.

When the photosensitive drum 61 rotates, a charging voltage is applied to the charging roller 62. The scanner 2 irradiates the photosensitive drum 61 with laser light corresponding to image information, whereby the surface of the photosensitive drum 61 charged by the charging roller 62 is exposed, forming an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image information on the surface of the photosensitive drum 61.

The developing roller 71 carries toner. The developing voltage is applied to the developing roller 71, and the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 61 is developed with the toner supplied from the developing roller 71, thereby forming a toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 61. In the present exemplary embodiment, the developing roller 71 in contact with the photosensitive drum 61 develops the electrostatic latent image. However, the developing roller 71 may develop the electrostatic latent image through a gap between the developing roller 71 and the photosensitive drum 61.

In forming a full-color image, toner images of the respective colors are formed on the photosensitive drum 61.

In the present exemplary embodiment, with the tray unit 50 in the first internal position, the developing roller 71 is movable between a contact position where the developing roller 71 contacts the photosensitive drum 61 and a separation position where the developing roller 71 separates from the photosensitive drum 61. Specifically, the state in which the developing roller 71 is at the contact position and the state in which the developing roller 71 is at the separation position are switched by the switching device included in the apparatus main body 1A. Accordingly, in a state where the image forming operation is not performed, the developing roller 71 can be kept separated from the photosensitive drum 61.

The printer 1 is capable of performing monochromatic printing in a state in which the developing roller 71 and the photosensitive drum 61 corresponding to the cartridge PK are in contact with each other and the developing roller 71 and the photosensitive drum 61 corresponding to the cartridges PY, PM, and PC are separated from each other. The printer 1 is capable of performing full-color printing in a state where the photosensitive drums 61 corresponding to the cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK contact the belt 41.

The toner image formed on each photosensitive drum 61 is transferred to the belt 41 by the primary transfer roller 42 at the primary transfer portion, and is conveyed to the secondary transfer portion formed by the belt 41 and the secondary transfer roller 45.

The apparatus main body 1A includes a conveyance path (first path or first conveyance path) 1c through which the sheet S traveling toward the fixing device 80 passes. The gate 20 includes a duplex conveying path (second path or second conveying path) 20a through which the sheet S passing through the fixing device 80 passes. The door 20 covers the conveyance path 1c in a closed state. With the door 20 opened, the conveyance path 1c and the duplex conveyance path 20a are exposed (fig. 2).

In the sheet feeding unit 30, each sheet S stacked in the stack tray 31 is separated and fed by the feed roller 32 at a predetermined timing, and is conveyed toward the secondary transfer portion and the fixing device 80 through the conveying path 1 c.

At the secondary transfer portion, the toner image is transferred from the belt 41 to the sheet S. The toner not transferred to the sheet S is removed from the belt 41 by a cleaning blade (cleaning member) 43A disposed in the cleaning unit 43.

The sheet S with the toner image transferred at the secondary transfer portion is conveyed toward the fixing device 80. In the fixing device 80, the sheet S is heated and pressurized by the fixing unit 81, thereby fixing the toner image to the sheet S. The sheet S to which the toner image is fixed is conveyed toward a flapper 5 serving as a path switching unit.

The shutter 5 is movable to a sheet discharge position in which the sheet S having passed through the fixing device 80 is guided to the sheet discharge path 1d, and a reversing position in which the sheet S is guided to the reversing path 1e.

When one-sided printing in which an image is formed on one side of the sheet S is performed, the sheet S is guided to the sheet discharge path 1d by the flapper 5 and discharged to a discharge tray 1f formed at an upper portion of the apparatus main body 1A.

When duplex printing in which images are printed on the front and back sides of the sheet S is performed, the sheet S is guided to the reversing path 1e by the flapper 5. After the sheet S is guided to the reversing path 1e, the conveying direction of the sheet S is reversed, and the sheet S is conveyed toward the secondary transfer portion through a double-sided conveying path 20a formed in the gate 20. At the secondary transfer portion, the toner image is transferred to the back surface of the sheet S. The sheet S then passes through the fixing device 80, is guided to the sheet discharge path 1d by the flapper 5, and is discharged to the discharge tray 1f of the apparatus main body 1A.

[ removal of tray Unit and transfer Unit and layout of fixing device ]

The detachment of the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 from the apparatus main body 1A and the layout of the fixing device 80 will be described with reference to fig. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.

As described above, the fixing device 80 of the printer 1 is provided at one end side of the apparatus main body 1A in the horizontal direction H. The transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 move the apparatus body 1A from the one end side of the apparatus body 1A through the opening 1 A1.

In other words, the fixing device 80 is closer to the first end 1b1 than to the second end 1b2 in the horizontal direction H. That is, in the horizontal direction H, the distance between the fixing device 80 and the first end 1b1 is smaller than the distance between the fixing device 80 and the second end 1b 2. It can be said that the fixing device 80 is positioned closer to the first end 1b1 than the center of the apparatus main body 1A in the horizontal direction H. It can be said that the distance between the first end 1b1 and the fixing device 80 in the horizontal direction H is smaller than the distance between the first end 1b1 and the center of the apparatus main body 1A.

As described above, when the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position to the first outer position, the moving direction of the tray unit 50 intersects with the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 61. Here, the tray unit 50 moves away from the second end 1b2.

As described above, when the transfer unit 40 moves from the second inner position to the second outer position, the moving direction of the transfer unit 40 intersects with the rotation axis of the driving roller 46. Here, the transfer unit 40 moves away from the second end 1b2.

As described above, the door 20 according to the present exemplary embodiment covers the opening 1A1 and at least a portion of the conveying path 1c of the sheet S in the closed state. Further, the gate 20 includes a double-sided conveyance path 20a.

If the sheet S jams, the user of the printer 1 can clear the jam by removing the sheet S from the one end side of the apparatus main body 1A. Specifically, the user can move the door 20 to the open position and enter the inside of the apparatus main body 1A to remove the sheet S. If a portion of the sheet S that has passed through the fixing device 80 is exposed outside the apparatus main body 1A, the user can remove the sheet S by pulling the sheet S from outside the apparatus main body 1A without opening the door 20.

The user of the printer 1 can also perform operations such as status checking, maintenance, replacement, and the like on the transfer unit 40 and the cartridge P by removing the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 from the apparatus main body 1A from the one end side of the apparatus main body 1A.

In other words, when the printer 1 includes the fixing device 80 provided at the one end side of the apparatus main body 1A, the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 can be moved into and out of the apparatus main body 1A by the one end side of the apparatus main body 1A. Accordingly, the user can clear the jam in one direction, approach the fixing device 80, and operate the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50.

In the present exemplary embodiment, the front surface of the printer 1 is the door 20 side. Therefore, a work space for eliminating paper jam and operating the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 can be provided on the front surface of the printer 1. In contrast, there is no need to provide a space for performing these operations from the left, right, rear, or top of the printer 1. Thus, the printer 1 can be mounted in a space-saving manner.

It is assumed that the transfer unit 40 or the tray unit 50 is pulled out from the other end side of the apparatus main body 1A. In this case, in order to clear the jam and pull out the transfer unit 40 or the tray unit 50, the user accesses the apparatus main body 1A from both sides. If the transfer unit 40 or the tray unit 50 is pulled out from one end side of the apparatus main body 1A and the other is pulled out from the other end side, the user also accesses the apparatus main body 1A from both sides. Since there is a work space in both the rear of the apparatus main body 1A and the front of the apparatus main body 1A, the area for mounting the printer 1 increases.

Further, in the present exemplary embodiment, the sheet S may be replenished from the one end side to the apparatus main body 1A. Therefore, a space for replenishing the sheet S to the printer 1 can be provided on the front surface, and the printer 1 can be mounted in a space-saving manner.

[ relation between tray Unit and fixing device ]

The relationship between the tray unit 50 and the fixing device 80 will be described with reference to fig. 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 7. Fig. 6 and 7 illustrate the movement of the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50.

The tray unit 50 passes through a predetermined space when moving between a first inner position, in which an image forming operation is performed on the sheet S, and a first outer position, in which the cartridge P can be replaced.

The space through which the tray unit 50 passes when moving from the first inner position to the first outer position will be referred to as a first space (a moving space of the tray unit 50). The first space may also be referred to as a path or trajectory (first moving path or first moving trajectory) for the tray unit 50 to pass when moving from the first inner position to the first outer position.

The transfer unit 40 passes through a predetermined space while moving between a second inner position where an image forming operation is performed on the sheet S and a second outer position. The space through which the transfer unit 40 passes when moving from the second inner position to the second outer position will be referred to as a second space (a moving space of the transfer unit 40). The second space may also be referred to as a path or trajectory (second moving path or second moving trajectory) for the transfer unit 40 to pass when moving from the second inner position to the second outer position.

The position (use position) of the fixing device 80 when the image forming operation is performed on the sheet S, the first space, and the second space have the following relationship.

As shown in fig. 6 and 7, at least a part of the fixing device 80 in the use position overlaps with the first space. In other words, with the fixing device 80 in the use position, at least a portion of the fixing device 80 is located in the first space.

In the present exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of the fixing device 80 overlaps with a space through which the cartridge P passes when the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position to the first outer position. However, at least a portion of the fixing device 80 may be positioned to overlap with the space through which the tray 51 passes.

This enables the apparatus main body 1A to be miniaturized, compared with a configuration in which the fixing device 80 in the use position is located outside the first space.

As shown in fig. 6, in the present exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of the duplex conveying path 20a overlaps with the first space when the door 20 is in the closed state. In other words, with the door 20 in the closed state, at least a portion of the duplex conveying path 20a is located in the first space.

As described above, at least a part of the fixing device 80 in the use position is located in the first space. With the fixing device 80 in the use position, movement of the tray unit 50 from the first inner position to the first outer position is thus restricted. Meanwhile, the fixing device 80 is configured to be retractable from the use position. The tray unit 50 is movable from a first inner position to a first outer position with the fixing device 80 retracted from the use position. When the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position to the first outer position, the tray unit 50 passes under the fixing device 80. The fixing device 80 is located outside the second space, either in the use position or in the retracted position. Therefore, the transfer unit 40 can be moved from the second inner position to the second outer position both in a state where the fixing device 80 is in the use state and in a state where the fixing device 80 is in the retracted position. When the transfer unit 40 moves from the second inner position to the second outer position, the transfer unit 40 passes under the fixing device 80.

The fixing device 80 includes a fixing frame 80a supporting a fixing unit 81. When the fixing device 80 is retracted from the use position, the fixing frame 80a is displaced relative to the apparatus main body 1A while supporting the fixing unit 81.

When the tray unit 50 is pulled out from the apparatus main body 1A, the door 20 is first moved to the open position as shown in fig. 2. In the present exemplary embodiment, the door 20 may be moved to the open position and the closed position with the fixing device 80 in the use position. With the door 20 in the open position, the fixing device 80 is moved from the use position to the retracted position away from the first space, as shown in fig. 3.

In the printer 1 according to the present exemplary embodiment, the fixing device 80 is movable between a use position and a retracted position retracted from the use position while being attached to the apparatus main body 1A. In the present exemplary embodiment, with the fixing device 80 in the retracted position, the entire fixing device 80 is located outside the first space. The fixing device 80 is lifted from the use position to a retracted position above the use position. In other words, the retracted position is a position higher than the use position. As shown in fig. 7, with the fixing device 80 in the retracted position, at least a portion of the fixing device 80 is positioned at a position protruding outward from the apparatus main body 1A. Further, in the case where the fixing device 80 is in the retracted position, at least a portion of the fixing device 80 is positioned higher than the upper cover portion 20b of the door 20 in the closed position. This makes it possible to keep the printer 1 small in the vertical direction V with the fixing device 80 in the use position, while the movement of the fixing device 80 to the retracted position provides a space for the movement of the tray unit 50. With the fixing device 80 in the retracted position, the door 20 is prevented from entering the closed position.

Specifically, the printer 1 includes a coupling member (fixing coupling member, fixing link, or arm) 85 movably coupled to the apparatus main body 1A. The fixing device 80 is coupled to the apparatus main body 1A by a coupling member 85.

The coupling member 85 is rotatable about a rotation center 85A. When the tray unit 50 is pulled out from the apparatus main body 1A, the coupling member 85 is moved out of the first space. The fixing device 80 is rotatably connected to one end of the coupling member 85. The other end of the coupling member 85 is rotatably connected to the apparatus main body 1A about a rotation center 85A. The fixing device 80 is movable from the use position to the retracted position and from the retracted position to the use position while being supported by the coupling member 85 (a state of being coupled to the apparatus main body 1A by the coupling member 85). The coupling member 85 is configured to be movable (swingable) with respect to the apparatus main body 1A and the fixing device 80. In other words, the fixing device 80 is connected to the apparatus main body 1A by the coupling member 85. This makes it possible to increase the amount of movement of the fixing device 80 when the fixing device 80 moves between the retracted position and the use position, as compared with a configuration in which the fixing device 80 is directly connected to the apparatus main body 1A.

As shown in fig. 7, when the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position to the first outer position, an angle formed between the moving direction of the tray unit 50 and the horizontal direction H is smaller than an angle formed between the moving direction of the tray unit 50 and the vertical direction V. Further, when the fixing device 80 is moved from the use position to the retracted position, the amount of movement of the fixing device 80 in the vertical direction V is larger than the amount of movement thereof in the horizontal direction H. In other words, when the fixing device 80 is moved from the use position to the retracted position, the amount of movement of the fixing device 80 in the direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the tray unit 50 is larger than the amount of movement thereof in the direction parallel to the moving direction of the tray unit 50.

Further, the fixing device 80 may be configured to be moved to the use position and the retracted position while being attached to the apparatus main body 1A by a guide fixed to the apparatus main body 1A. In this case, the guide may have any given shape.

The method for moving the fixing device 80 out of the first space is not limited thereto. For example, the fixing device 80 may be configured to be detachable from the apparatus main body 1A when retracted from the use position, whereby the fixing device 80 can be moved out of the first space. In other words, the fixing device 80 may be positioned outside the first space by separating the fixing device 80 from the apparatus body 1A and the door 20 (separating the fixing device 80 from the main frame 100). Alternatively, the fixing device 80 may be coupled to the door 20 such that the fixing device 80 is moved out of the first space by opening the door 20.

[ relation between tray Unit and transfer Unit ]

The relationship between the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 will be described with reference to fig. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7.

As shown in fig. 3, in a case where the fixing device 80 is positioned outside the first space, the user holds the tray handle 52 and moves the tray unit 50 to the outside of the apparatus main body 1A.

As shown in fig. 6 and 7, the position of the transfer unit 40 when performing the image forming operation on the sheet S has the following relationship with the first space.

When the image forming operation is performed on the sheet S, the transfer unit 40 is at the second internal position. As shown in fig. 6 and 7, at least a portion of the transfer unit 40 in the second internal position overlaps the first space. In other words, with the transfer unit 40 in the second internal position, at least a portion of the transfer unit 40 is located in the first space.

In the present exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of the transfer unit 40 overlaps with a space through which the tray 51 passes when the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position to the first outer position. However, at least a portion of the transfer unit 40 may be positioned to overlap with a space through which the cartridge P passes.

Therefore, the apparatus body 1A can be reduced in size as compared with a configuration in which the transfer unit 40 in the second internal position is located outside the first space.

In the printer 1 according to the present exemplary embodiment, the portion of the transfer unit 40 overlapping the first space refers to the cleaning unit 43 accommodating the cleaning member 43A. However, other portions of the transfer unit 40 may overlap the first space. In the present exemplary embodiment, the cleaning member 43A of the transfer unit 40 at the second internal position overlaps the first space.

The tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 can be said to satisfy the following relationship.

In a state in which the tray unit 50 is in the first internal position and the transfer unit 40 is in the second internal position, a part of the transfer unit 40 (the cleaning unit 43) is located downstream of the tray unit 50 in the moving direction in which the tray unit 50 moves from the first internal position to the first external position. In the vertical direction V, the region (range) in which the portion (cleaning unit 43) of the transfer unit 40 downstream of the tray unit 50 is located at least partially overlaps the region (range) in which the tray unit 50 is located.

In the present exemplary embodiment, when the door 20 is in the closed state, at least a portion of the duplex conveying path 20a overlaps with a second space through which the transfer unit 40 passes when moving from the second inner position to the second outer position. In other words, at least a portion of the duplex conveying path 20a is located in the second space when the door 20 is in the closed state.

As described, with the transfer unit 40 in the second internal position, at least a portion of the transfer unit 40 is located in the first space. In the present exemplary embodiment, when the user moves the tray unit 50 from the first internal position to the first external position with respect to the apparatus main body 1A, the transfer unit 40 is thus also moved from the second internal position to the second external position with respect to the apparatus main body 1A. In other words, in a state where the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 are integrated with each other, the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position to the first outer position, and the transfer unit 40 moves from the second inner position to the second outer position.

The integral movement of the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 can prevent the photosensitive drum 61 from being exposed when the tray unit 50 is moved to the first external position, and can prevent the photosensitive drum 61 from being damaged or stained.

As shown in fig. 7, in a case where the door 20 is opened, the tray unit 50 is located at the first external position, and the transfer unit 40 is located at the second external position, the transfer unit 40 supports the tray unit 50 from below the tray unit 50. Further, in the present exemplary embodiment, the door 20 supports the transfer unit 40. In other words, the transfer unit 40 supported by the door 20 supports the tray unit 50. In this state, it can be said that the door 20 supports the tray unit 50 through the transfer unit 40.

A configuration for integrally moving the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 will be described with reference to fig. 8, 9, and 10. Fig. 8, 9, and 10 show a coupling member (lever, stopper, or locking member) 53 that couples the tray 51 of the tray unit 50 with the transfer unit 40.

The printer 1 according to the present exemplary embodiment includes the lock member 53. In the present exemplary embodiment, the locking member 53 is provided on the tray 51 of the tray unit 50. The lock member 53 has a transfer lock portion 53A, and is rotatable about a rotation center 53B.

The tray 51 includes a transfer coupling portion 51A. The transfer unit 40 includes a transfer frame 48 supporting the driving roller 46, the tension roller 47, and the primary transfer roller 42. The transfer frame 48 includes a tray coupling groove 48A and a locking coupling portion 48B.

The lock member 53 is rotatable about the rotation center 53B to a coupling position where the transfer lock portion 53A is engaged with the lock coupling portion 48B and the transfer unit 40 is coupled with the tray unit 50, and to a release position retracted from the coupling position.

The tray coupling groove 48A is engaged with the transfer coupling portion 51A, whereby the movement of the tray unit 50 with respect to the transfer unit 40 in the first removal direction Dd1 and the direction orthogonal to the first removal direction Dd1 is restricted. Meanwhile, the transfer unit 40 is restricted from moving relative to the tray unit 50 in the second attaching direction Da2 and a direction orthogonal to the second attaching direction Da 2.

Similar constructions are provided at four positions in total, that is, near both ends of the tension roller 47 in the direction of the rotation axis of the tension roller 47 and near both ends of the drive roller 46 in the direction of the rotation axis of the drive roller 46.

The engagement of the transfer lock portion 53A of the lock member 53 in the coupling position with the lock coupling portion 48B restricts the movement of the tray unit 50 with respect to the transfer unit 40 in the first detaching direction Da 1. Meanwhile, the transfer unit 40 is restricted from moving in the second detaching direction Dd2 with respect to the tray unit 50.

The locking member 53 and the locking coupling portion 48B may also be provided at both ends of the transfer unit 40 in the direction of the rotation axis of the tension roller 47.

In a state where the transfer coupling portion 51A is engaged with the tray coupling groove 48A and the locking member 53 in the coupling position is engaged with the locking coupling portion 48B, the movement of the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 relative to each other is restricted. In this state, the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 may have some play.

In other words, the transfer coupling portion 51A and the locking member 53 can be said to have a function as a tray-side coupling means, and the tray coupling groove 48A and the locking coupling portion 48B have a function as a transfer-side coupling means. The coupling of the tray-side coupling device and the transfer-side coupling device couples the tray unit 50 with the transfer unit 40, and the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 move integrally.

As shown in fig. 10, the apparatus main body 1A includes an unlocking portion 1B. In a state in which the tray unit 50 is in the first internal position and the transfer unit 40 is in the second internal position, the lock member 53 is in contact with the unlock portion 1B and is positioned at the unlock position. In this state, the transfer lock portion 53A is separated from the lock coupling portion 48B.

If the tray unit 50 is moved in the first dismounting direction Dd1 with the lock member 53 in the unlock position, the transfer unit 40 is pushed by the transfer coupling portion 51A in the second dismounting direction Dd 2. Therefore, the transfer unit 40 also moves integrally with the tray unit 50 in the second removal direction Dd 2. If the tray unit 50 is moved a predetermined distance in the first detaching direction Dd1, the locking member 53 is separated from the unlocking portion 1B and moved to the coupling position, and engaged with the locking coupling portion 48B. With the locking member 53 positioned at the coupling position and engaged with the locking coupling portion 48B, the tray unit 50 is moved to the first external position, and the transfer unit 40 is moved to the second external position.

If the tray unit 50 is moved in the first attaching direction Da1 with the locking member 53 engaged with the locking coupling portion 48B, the transfer unit 40 is pushed by the locking member 53 in the second attaching direction Da 2. Therefore, the transfer unit 40 also moves integrally with the tray unit 50 in the second attachment direction Da 2.

If the transfer unit 40 is moved in the second attaching direction Da2 with the lock member 53 engaged with the lock coupling portion 48B, the transfer unit 40 pushes the transfer coupling portion 51A, and the tray unit 50 is pushed in the first attaching direction Da 1. Therefore, the tray unit 50 also moves integrally with the transfer unit 40 in the first attachment direction Da 1.

If the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 are integrally moved into the apparatus main body 1A, the lock member 53 is moved to the unlock position by the unlock portion 1B. If the tray unit 50 is moved in the first attaching direction Da1 in this state, the transfer unit 40 is not moved. Then, when the door 20 is closed, the transfer unit 40 is pushed completely into the apparatus main body 1A (up to the second internal position) by the contact force of the secondary transfer roller 45 with the transfer unit 40 in the second attaching direction Da 2. In other words, the door 20 may push the transfer unit 40 such that the transfer unit 40 is positioned at the second internal position. The door 20 may also push the tray unit 50 such that the tray unit 50 is positioned in the first inner position.

Now, if the transfer unit 40 is moved in the second detaching direction Dd2 with the lock member 53 in the unlock position and the tray unit 50 in the first inner position, the transfer unit 40 can be moved from the second inner position to the second outer position independently of the tray unit 50. In the printer 1 according to the present exemplary embodiment, as shown in fig. 5, the transfer unit 40 may be moved out of the apparatus main body 1A (moved to the second external position) with the tray unit 50 positioned inside the apparatus main body 1A (in the first internal position). The transfer unit 40 can be detached from the apparatus main body 1A and replaced with a new transfer unit 40.

In the present exemplary embodiment, in a state in which the tray unit 50 is in the first internal position, the tray unit 50 is positioned to the apparatus main body 1A independently of the transfer unit 40. In a state where the transfer unit 40 is in the second internal position, the transfer unit 40 is positioned to the apparatus main body 1A independently of the tray unit 50. The purpose is to prioritize the accurate positioning of the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 with respect to the apparatus main body 1A. Therefore, in a state in which the tray unit 50 is in the first internal position and the transfer unit 40 is in the second internal position, there is some gap between the tray coupling groove 48A and the transfer coupling portion 51A.

In a state in which the tray unit 50 is in the first internal position and the transfer unit 40 is in the second internal position, a gap between the tray coupling groove 48A and the transfer coupling portion 51A can be eliminated, so that the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 can be positioned with each other. In this case, the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 can be accurately positioned with respect to each other.

[ movement of tray Unit and transfer Unit ]

As shown in fig. 1, 6, and 7, the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 are inclined with respect to the horizontal direction H when attached to the apparatus main body 1A.

More specifically, with the tray unit 50 in the first internal position, the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 61 nearer to the first end 1b1 is located above the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 61 farther to the first end 1b1 in the vertical direction V.

In other words, with the tray unit 50 in the first internal position, the second photosensitive drum is closer to the first end 1b1 than the first photosensitive drum, and the rotation axis of the second photosensitive drum is located above the rotation axis of the first photosensitive drum in the vertical direction V. Similarly, the third photosensitive drum is closer to the first end 1b1 than the second photosensitive drum, and the rotation axis of the third photosensitive drum is located above the rotation axis of the second photosensitive drum in the vertical direction V. The fourth photosensitive drum is closer to the first end 1b1 than the third photosensitive drum, and the rotation axis of the fourth photosensitive drum is located above the rotation axis of the third photosensitive drum in the vertical direction V.

The straight line connecting the centers of the photosensitive drums 61 will be referred to as a line LD. In the present exemplary embodiment, when the tray unit 50 is in the first internal position, the line LD is inclined upward with respect to the horizontal direction H from the side farther from the first end position 1b1 to the side nearer to the first end 1b 1.

Further, the contact surfaces of the belt 41 with the first, second, third, and fourth photosensitive drums are inclined upward from the side farther from the first end 1b1 to the side nearer to the first end 1b 1.

When the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position to the first outer position, the tray unit 50 moves in a direction inclined with respect to the horizontal direction H (in the present exemplary embodiment, a direction inclined upward with respect to the horizontal direction H). In other words, when the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position to the first outer position, the tray unit 50 moves obliquely upward.

When the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position to the first outer position, the moving direction of the tray unit 50 is lowered from the inclination upward. The moving direction of the tray unit 50 may include a direction parallel to the horizontal direction H or a direction inclined downward with respect to the horizontal direction H.

The angle formed between the line LD and the horizontal direction H when the tray unit 50 is in the first outer position is smaller than the angle formed when the tray unit 50 is in the first inner position. In the present exemplary embodiment, the line LD and the horizontal direction H are parallel when the tray unit 50 is in the first outer position. However, the line LD may be inclined downward or upward with respect to the horizontal direction H.

Similarly, when the transfer unit 40 moves from the second inner position to the second outer position, the moving direction of the transfer unit 40 decreases from the inclination upward. The moving direction of the transfer unit 40 may include a direction parallel to the horizontal direction H or a direction inclined downward with respect to the horizontal direction H.

The angle formed between the contact surface of the belt 41 and the horizontal direction H when the transfer unit 40 is in the second outer position is smaller than the angle formed when the transfer unit 40 is in the second inner position. In the present exemplary embodiment, the contact surface of the belt 41 and the horizontal direction H are parallel when the transfer unit 40 is in the second external position. However, the contact surface of the belt 41 may be inclined downward or upward with respect to the horizontal direction H.

If the tray unit 50 is moved from the first outer position to the first inner position, the tray unit 50 is moved in the horizontal direction H and then inclined downward from the middle thereof. If the transfer unit 40 is moved from the second outer position to the second inner position, the transfer unit 40 is moved in the horizontal direction H and then inclined downward from the middle thereof. According to such a configuration, when the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 are inserted into the apparatus main body 1A, the self weights of the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 can be utilized.

(modification)

As described above, the photosensitive drum 61, the charging roller 62, and the developing roller 71 may be provided on the cartridge P or the tray 51. A description thereof will be given with reference to fig. 11A to 11D. Fig. 11A to 11D are diagrams showing the tray unit 50 according to the modification.

For example, as shown in fig. 11A, the tray 51 may include a photosensitive drum 61 and a charging roller 62, and the cartridge P may include a developing roller 71.

As shown in fig. 11B, the cartridge P may include a drum cartridge P1 and a developing cartridge P2, the drum cartridge P1 including the photosensitive drum 61 and the charging roller 62, and the developing cartridge P2 including the developing roller 71. In other words, the cartridge P may be divided into a drum cartridge P1 and a developing cartridge P2. In this case, the drum cartridge P1 and the developing cartridge P2 can be detachably attached to the tray 51 independently of each other.

As shown in fig. 11C, the cartridge P may include a cartridge PR including the photosensitive drum 61, the charging roller 62, and the developing roller 71, and a cartridge PT including toner to be replenished into the cartridge PR. In other words, the cassette P may be divided into the cassette PR and the cassette PT.

As shown in fig. 11D, the cartridge P may include a drum cartridge P1, a developing cartridge P2, and a cartridge PT, the drum cartridge P1 including the photosensitive drum 61 and the charging roller 62, the developing cartridge P2 including the developing roller 71, the cartridge PT including the toner to be replenished into the developing cartridge P2. In other words, the cartridge P may be divided into a drum cartridge P1, a developing cartridge P2, and a cartridge PT.

The second exemplary embodiment will be described. In the second exemplary embodiment, components similar to those described in the foregoing exemplary embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals as those used in the exemplary embodiments. Descriptions of components similar to those of the exemplary embodiments may be omitted.

[ relation between tray Unit and transfer Unit ]

The printer 101 as an image forming apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment includes an apparatus main body 101A provided with an opening 101 A1. The printer 101, the apparatus main body 101A, and the opening 101A1 correspond to the printer 1, the apparatus main body 1A, and the opening 1A1 of the first exemplary embodiment, respectively.

In the present exemplary embodiment, as in the first exemplary embodiment, in the case where the transfer unit 40 is located at the second internal position, at least a part of the transfer unit 40 is located in the first space through which the tray unit 50 passes when moving from the first internal position to the first external position. In the first exemplary embodiment, the tray unit 50 is configured to be moved out of the apparatus main body 1A together with the transfer unit 40. In the printer 101 according to the present exemplary embodiment, the transfer unit 40 may be moved such that a portion of the transfer unit 40 (specifically, the cleaning unit 43) is positioned outside the first space. In the case where the portion of the transfer unit 40 is retracted from the first space, the tray unit 50 is removed from the apparatus main body 101A.

The relationship between the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 will be described with reference to fig. 12, 13, and 14. Fig. 12 shows the overall configuration of the printer 101 according to the second exemplary embodiment. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing the printer 101 in the case where the door 20, the fixing device 80, and the transfer unit 40 are moved. Fig. 14 is a diagram showing the printer 101 in a state where the tray unit 50 is pulled out.

As in the first exemplary embodiment, the door 20 and the fixing device 80 are retracted from the first space before moving the tray unit 50. Specifically, after the door 20 is moved to the open position, the fixing device 80 is moved from the use position to the retracted position. In the present exemplary embodiment, the transfer unit 40 is further inclined away from the tray unit 50, as shown in fig. 13. Thus, the cleaning unit 43, which is a part of the transfer unit 43, is moved out of the first space. In this state, the belt 41 is separated from the photosensitive drum 61.

Then, the user holds the tray handle 52 and moves the tray unit 50 to the outside of the apparatus main body 101A, whereby the tray unit 50 as shown in fig. 14 can be pulled out from the apparatus main body 101A through the opening 101A 1.

According to the configuration of the present exemplary embodiment, the tray unit 50 can be removed from the apparatus main body 101A (moved to the first external position) with the transfer unit 40 positioned inside the apparatus main body 101A. Further, the transfer unit 40 may be moved to the second external position with the tray unit 50 in the first internal position. Therefore, the tray unit 50 can be moved with less force than in a configuration in which the tray unit 50 is removed from the apparatus main body 101A together with the transfer unit 40. Also, in the present exemplary embodiment, the tray unit 50 passes under the fixing device 80 while moving from the first inner position to the first outer position. The transfer unit 40 passes under the fixing device 80 while moving from the second inner position to the second outer position.

A third exemplary embodiment will be described. In the third exemplary embodiment, components similar to those described in the foregoing exemplary embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals as those used in the exemplary embodiments. Descriptions of components similar to those of the exemplary embodiments may be omitted.

[ relation between tray Unit and transfer Unit ]

The printer 201 as an image forming apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment includes an apparatus main body 201A provided with an opening 201 A1. The printer 201, the apparatus main body 201A, and the opening 201A1 correspond to the printer 1, the apparatus main body 1A, and the opening 1A1 of the first exemplary embodiment, respectively.

In the present exemplary embodiment, as in the first and second exemplary embodiments, in the case where the transfer unit 40 is located at the second internal position, at least a part of the transfer unit 40 is located in the first space through which the tray unit 50 passes when moving from the first internal position to the first external position.

In the printer 201 of the present exemplary embodiment, a portion of the transfer unit 40 (the cleaning unit 43) may be moved relative to the belt 41 such that the portion of the transfer unit 40 (the cleaning unit 43) is positioned outside the first space through which the tray unit 50 passes when moving from the first inner position to the first outer position.

The relationship between the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 will be described with reference to fig. 15 and 16. Fig. 15 is a diagram showing the printer 201 in the case where the door 20, the fixing device 80, and the cleaning unit 43 are moved. Fig. 16 is a diagram showing the printer 201 in a state where the tray unit 50 is pulled out.

As in the first exemplary embodiment, the door 20 and the fixing device 80 are retracted from the first space before moving the tray unit 50. In this third exemplary embodiment, the cleaning unit 43 is further rotated around the driving roller 46 as shown in fig. 15, whereby the cleaning unit 43 is separated from the tray unit 50 and moved out of the first space.

The cleaning unit 43 is moved out of the first space with respect to the belt 41. Rotation of the cleaning unit 43 about the driving roller 46 can move the cleaning unit 43 without separating the cleaning blade 43A from the belt 41.

Then, the user holds the tray handle 52 and moves the tray unit 50 to the outside of the apparatus main body 201A, whereby the tray unit 50 can be pulled out from the apparatus main body 201A, as shown in fig. 16. Although the cleaning unit 43 is moved before the movement of the tray unit 50 in the present exemplary embodiment, the cleaning unit 43 may also be rotated with the movement of the tray unit 50.

According to the configuration of the present exemplary embodiment, the tray unit 50 can be removed from the apparatus main body 201A with the transfer unit 40 positioned inside the apparatus main body 201A. Therefore, the tray unit 50 can be moved with less force than in a configuration in which the tray unit 50 is removed from the apparatus main body 201A together with the transfer unit 40. Also, in the present exemplary embodiment, the tray unit 50 passes under the fixing device 80 while moving from the first inner position to the first outer position. The transfer unit 40 passes under the fixing device 80 while moving from the second inner position to the second outer position.

A fourth exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 17, 18, and 19. In the fourth exemplary embodiment, components similar to those described in the foregoing exemplary embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals as those used in the exemplary embodiments. Descriptions of components similar to those of the exemplary embodiments may be omitted.

The printer 301 as an image forming apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment includes an apparatus main body 301A provided with an opening 301 A1. The printer 301, the apparatus main body 301A, and the opening 301A1 correspond to the printer 1, the apparatus main body 1A, and the opening 1A1 of the first exemplary embodiment, respectively.

Fig. 17 shows the overall configuration of a printer 301 as an image forming apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment. Fig. 18 is an overall view showing the printer 301 in a state where the door 20 is opened. Fig. 19 is an overall view showing the printer 301 in a state where the tray unit 50 is pulled out.

Also, in the present exemplary embodiment, it can be said that the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 satisfy the following relationship. In a state in which the tray unit 50 is in the first internal position and the transfer unit 40 is in the second internal position, a part of the transfer unit 40 (in the present exemplary embodiment, the cleaning unit 43) is located downstream of the tray unit 50 in the moving direction in which the tray unit 50 moves from the first internal position to the first external position. In the vertical direction V, the region where the portion (cleaning unit 43) of the transfer unit 40 downstream of the tray unit 50 is located at least partially overlaps with the region where the tray unit 50 is located.

A trajectory of moving the tray unit 50 out of the apparatus main body 301A according to the fourth exemplary embodiment will be described. As shown in fig. 18, the tray unit 50 is lifted away from the transfer unit 40 in interlocking with the operation of opening the door 20. The position of the tray unit 50 at this time may be referred to as a first intermediate position. If the door 20 is closed in this state, the tray unit 50 is lowered to the first inner position. With the tray unit 50 in the first intermediate position, the belt 41 is separated from the photosensitive drum 61.

Then, the tray unit 50 is moved out of the apparatus main body 301A through the opening 301A1 between the transfer unit 40 and the fixing device 80.

The printer 301 according to the fourth exemplary embodiment is configured such that, in the apparatus main body 301A, the fixing device 80 in the use position and the transfer unit 40 in the second internal position are positioned outside the first space through which the tray unit 50 passes when moving from the first internal position to the first external position. Therefore, even in the case where the fixing device 80 and the transfer unit 40 are positioned at the same position as when image formation is performed on the sheet S, the tray unit 50 can be moved out of the apparatus main body 301A.

Although the apparatus main body 301A according to the present exemplary embodiment requires a space for enabling lifting of the tray unit 50, the fixing device 80 and the transfer unit 40 do not need to be moved when the tray unit 50 is pulled out of the apparatus main body 301A. Further, the tray unit 50 can be moved with a smaller force than in a configuration in which the tray unit 50 is moved out of the apparatus main body 301A together with the transfer unit 40. Also, in the present exemplary embodiment, the tray unit 50 passes under the fixing device 80 while moving from the first inner position to the first outer position. The transfer unit 40 passes under the fixing device 80 while moving from the second inner position to the second outer position.

A fifth exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 20, 21, and 22. In the fifth exemplary embodiment, components similar to those described in the foregoing exemplary embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals as those used in the exemplary embodiments. Descriptions of components similar to those of the exemplary embodiments may be omitted.

The printer 401 as an image forming apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment includes an apparatus main body 401A provided with an opening 401A1 and a door 420. The printer 401, the apparatus body 401A, and the opening 401A1 correspond to the printer 1, the apparatus body 1A, and the opening 1A1 of the first exemplary embodiment, respectively.

Fig. 20 shows the overall configuration of a printer 401 as an image forming apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment. Fig. 21 is a diagram showing a printer 401 in the case where the fixing device 80 is moved. Fig. 22 is a diagram showing the printer 401 in a case where the tray unit 50 is pulled out.

In the first to fourth exemplary embodiments, the toner images formed on the photosensitive drums 61 are transferred to the belt 41 of the transfer unit 40, and then transferred from the belt 41 to the sheet S at the secondary transfer portion. In other words, the transfer unit 40 according to the first to fourth exemplary embodiments has a function as an intermediate transfer unit.

In contrast, according to the fifth exemplary embodiment, the transfer unit (transfer device) 440 conveys the sheet S using the belt (conveying belt) 441 such that the sheet S contacts the photosensitive drum 61, and the toner image is transferred from the photosensitive drum 61 to the sheet S. In other words, the transfer unit 440 according to the present exemplary embodiment has a function as a conveyor belt unit.

The printer 401 as an image forming apparatus according to this fifth exemplary embodiment includes an apparatus main body 401A, a sheet feeding unit 430, and a transfer unit 440. As in the first exemplary embodiment, the fixing device 80 is provided at one end side of the apparatus main body 401A.

The transfer unit 440 includes a belt 441 for conveying the sheet S, four primary transfer rollers 442, a driving roller 446, and a tension roller 447. The printer 401 according to the present exemplary embodiment includes an optical sensor 44 for detecting the toner image transferred to the belt 441.

The tray unit 50 is removed from the apparatus body 401A from the one end side of the apparatus body 401A. Specifically, an opening 401A1 through which the tray unit 50 passes is arranged at the one end side of the apparatus main body 401A. The door 420 is movable between a closed position in which the opening 401A1 is covered and an open position in which the opening 401A1 is exposed.

As in the first exemplary embodiment, a toner image is formed on the photosensitive drum 61 based on image information. Meanwhile, the sheet S fed from the sheet feeding unit 430 is conveyed by the belt 441 in a state of contact with the photosensitive drum 61. Here, a transfer voltage is applied to the primary transfer roller 442, thereby transferring the toner image from the photosensitive drum 61 to the sheet S.

The sheet S to which the toner image is transferred is conveyed to the fixing device 80. The toner image is fixed to the sheet S by the fixing device 80.

At the time of performing one-sided printing, the sheet S having passed through the fixing device 80 is discharged by the flapper 5 to a discharge tray formed at an upper portion of the apparatus main body 401A. At the time of performing the duplex printing, the sheet S inverted by the flapper 5 is conveyed again to the belt 441 from the duplex conveying path 420a inside the gate 420 through the return conveying path provided above the sheet feeding unit 430. The sheet S is conveyed by the belt 441 to a position contacting the photosensitive drum 61. After the toner image is transferred from the photosensitive drum 61 to the back surface of the sheet S, the sheet S passes through the fixing device 80 and is discharged to a discharge tray.

As in the first exemplary embodiment, when the image forming operation is performed on the sheet S, at least a portion of the fixing device 80 overlaps with a first space through which the tray unit 50 passes when moving from the first inner position to the first outer position. Accordingly, when the tray unit 50 is moved out of the apparatus body 401A, the fixing device 80 is moved out of the first space.

Similar to the printer 1 according to the first exemplary embodiment, the printer 401 according to the present exemplary embodiment is also configured such that the transfer unit 440 and the tray unit 50 can be moved into and out of the apparatus main body 401A through one end side of the apparatus main body 401A while the fixing device 80 is provided at the one end side of the apparatus main body 401A. In other words, when the transfer unit 440 moves from the second inner position to the second outer position, the transfer unit 440 moves away from the other end side (second end 1b 2) of the apparatus body 401A. When the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position to the first outer position, the tray unit 50 moves away from the other end side (second end 1b 2) of the apparatus main body 401A. Accordingly, the user can perform a job in one direction to clear the jam, approach the fixing device 80, and operate the transfer unit 440 and the tray unit 50.

In the present exemplary embodiment, the tray unit 50 can be individually moved to the first external position. However, as in the first exemplary embodiment, the tray unit 50 may be moved to the first external position together with the transfer unit 440. Also, in the present exemplary embodiment, the tray unit 50 passes under the fixing device 80 while moving from the first inner position to the first outer position. The transfer unit 440 passes under the fixing device 80 while moving from the second inner position to the second outer position.

The sixth exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 23, 24, and 25. In the sixth exemplary embodiment, components similar to those described in the foregoing exemplary embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals as those used in the exemplary embodiments. Descriptions of components similar to those of the exemplary embodiments may be omitted.

The printer 501 as an image forming apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment includes an apparatus main body 501A provided with an opening 501A1 and a door 20. The printer 501, the apparatus main body 501A, and the opening 501A1 correspond to the printer 1, the apparatus main body 1A, and the opening 1A1 of the first exemplary embodiment, respectively.

The printer 501 also includes a transfer unit (transfer device) 540, a tray unit 550, and a scanner 502. The transfer unit 540, the tray unit 550, and the scanner 502 correspond to the transfer unit 40, the tray unit 50, and the scanner 2 of the first exemplary embodiment, respectively.

In the printer 501 according to the present exemplary embodiment, the transfer unit 540 is disposed above the tray unit 550, and the scanner 502 is disposed below the tray unit 550.

A printer 501 serving as an image forming apparatus will be described with reference to fig. 23. Fig. 23 shows the overall configuration of the printer 501.

The tray unit 550 according to the present exemplary embodiment includes a tray (support member or drawer) 551 and a box PPY, PPM, PPC and PPK. The tray 551 includes a tray handle 552. The cartridges PPY, PP M, PPC, and PPK are detachably attached to the tray 551.

The cartridges PPY, PPM, PPC and PPK can be attached to and detached from the tray 551 independently of each other. The cartridges PPY, PPM, PPC and PPK contain Y, M, C and K toners (developers), respectively. The cartridges PPY, PPM, PPC and PPK have the same configuration except for accommodating toners of different colors. Therefore, if it is not necessary to distinguish between the box PPY, PPM, PPC and PPK, the box PPY, PPM, PPC and PPK may be simply referred to as box PP.

The tray unit 550 includes four photosensitive drums (image bearing members) 61, four charging rollers (charging members) 62, and four developing rollers (developer bearing members) 71. In the present exemplary embodiment, the cassette PPK will be referred to as a first cassette, the cassette PPC will be referred to as a second cassette, the cassette PPM will be referred to as a third cassette, and the cassette PPY will be referred to as a fourth cassette. In the present exemplary embodiment, the cartridge PP includes the photosensitive drum 61, the charging roller 62, and the developing roller 71.

The transfer unit 540 includes a belt 541, a primary transfer roller 42, a cleaning unit 43, a driving roller 46 for driving the belt 541, and a tension roller (driven roller) 47.

The printer 501 according to the present exemplary embodiment includes an optical sensor 44 for detecting the toner image transferred to the belt 541, and a conveying unit 590 including a conveying roller 553.

The conveying unit 590 is disposed upstream of the secondary transfer portion in the conveying direction of the sheet S, and is configured to convey the sheet S toward the secondary transfer portion and the fixing device 80.

In the present exemplary embodiment, the belt 541 is disposed above the photosensitive drum 61, and is capable of contacting the photosensitive drum 61 to form a primary transfer portion. The printer 501 also includes a secondary transfer roller 45 that contacts the belt 541 to form a secondary transfer portion. The direction of the rotation axis of the primary transfer roller 42, the direction of the rotation axis of the driving roller 46, the direction of the rotation axis of the tension roller 47, and the direction of the rotation axis of the secondary transfer roller 45 are parallel.

Fig. 24 is a diagram showing the printer 501 in the case where the door 20, the transfer unit 540, and the transfer unit 590 are moved. Fig. 25 is a diagram showing the printer 501 in a case where the tray unit 550 is pulled out.

The transfer unit 540 and the tray unit 550 can be moved from the inside to the outside of the apparatus main body 501A. Specifically, the fixing device 80 is provided at one end side of the apparatus main body 501A in the horizontal direction. An opening 501A1 through which the transfer unit 540 and the tray unit 550 pass is formed at the one end side.

The door 20 attached to the apparatus main body 501A is movable between a closed position (fig. 23) in which the opening 501A1 is covered and an open position (fig. 24).

The apparatus body 501A includes a first end 501b1 having an opening 501A1 and a second end 501b2 opposite to the first end 501b1 in the horizontal direction H. The tray unit 550 can be moved to a first inner position inside the apparatus main body 501A and a first outer position outside the apparatus main body 501A through the opening 501 A1. The transfer unit 540 can be moved to a second inner position inside the apparatus main body 501A and a second outer position outside the apparatus main body 501A through the opening 501 A1. The opening 501A1 may include an opening through which the tray unit 550 passes and an opening through which the transfer unit 540 passes.

In the horizontal direction H, the fixing device 80 is closer to the first end 501b1 than to the second end 501b2. In other words, the distance between the fixing device 80 and the first end 501b1 is smaller than the distance between the fixing device 80 and the second end 501b2 in the horizontal direction H.

When the tray unit 550 is moved from the first inner position to the first outer position, the moving direction of the tray unit 550 intersects with the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 61. Here, the tray unit 550 moves away from the second end 501b2.

As described above, when the transfer unit 540 is moved from the second inner position to the second outer position, the moving direction of the transfer unit 540 intersects with the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 61. Here, the transfer unit 540 moves away from the second end 501b2.

In the present exemplary embodiment, at least a part of the conveying unit 590 is located in a first space through which the tray unit 550 passes when moving from the first inner position to the first outer position at a position where an image forming operation is performed on the sheet S.

In the present exemplary embodiment, when the tray unit 550 is moved from the first inner position to the first outer position, the transfer unit 540 is tilted away from the tray unit 550, as shown in fig. 24.

At the same time, the transfer unit 590 is rotated clockwise to move away from the tray unit 550 and out of the first space. Then, the user holds the tray handle 552 and moves the tray unit 550 to the outside of the apparatus main body 501A, whereby the tray unit 550 as shown in fig. 25 can be pulled out from the apparatus main body 501A.

In the case where the tray unit 550 is removed from the apparatus main body 501A (fig. 25), the cartridge PPY, PPM, PPC and PPK can be detached from the tray 551 and can be attached to the tray 551. In this way, the cartridge PPY, PPM, PPC and PPK can be replaced with new cartridges PPY, PPM, PPC and PPK.

The transfer unit 540 may also be detached from the apparatus body 501A and replaced with a new transfer unit 540.

In the printer 501 according to the present exemplary embodiment, similarly to the printer 1 of the first exemplary embodiment, the transfer unit 540 and the tray unit 550 may be moved into and out of the apparatus main body 501A through one end side of the apparatus main body 501A when the fixing device 80 is provided at the one end side of the apparatus main body 501A. Accordingly, the user can perform a job in one direction to clear the jam, approach the fixing device 80, and operate the transfer unit 540 and the tray unit 550. Also, in the present exemplary embodiment, the tray unit 550 passes under the fixing device 80 while moving from the first inner position to the first outer position. The transfer unit 540 passes under the fixing device 80 while moving from the second inner position to the second outer position.

The configurations described in the exemplary embodiments may be appropriately combined.

While the present disclosure has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims (12)

1. An image forming apparatus configured to form an image on a recording material, the image forming apparatus comprising:

an apparatus main body;

a drawer unit, the drawer unit comprising: (i) a first cartridge, (ii) a support member to which the first cartridge is detachably attached, and (iii) a first photosensitive drum provided on the support member or the first cartridge, wherein the drawer unit is configured to move to a first inner position inside the apparatus main body and a first outer position outside the apparatus main body; and

a transfer device including a belt, wherein the transfer device is configured to move to a second internal position inside the apparatus main body and a second external position outside the apparatus main body, and the belt is configured to contact the first photosensitive drum with the transfer device in the second internal position, and

wherein the transfer device is configured to move from the second inner position to the second outer position when the drawer unit moves from the first inner position to the first outer position.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a coupling member configured to couple the supporting member with the transfer device,

Wherein the coupling member is configured to move between a coupling position where the supporting member is coupled with the transfer device and a release position retracted from the coupling position.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the transfer device is configured to move from the second inner position to the second outer position in a state in which the coupling member is positioned at the release position and the drawer unit is at the first inner position.

4. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising:

a fixing device configured to heat the recording material; and

an opening and closing member configured to cover an opening of the apparatus body in a closed state,

wherein the apparatus main body includes a first end provided with the opening of the apparatus main body and a second end opposite to the first end in a horizontal direction,

wherein the fixing device is closer to the first end than to the second end, and

wherein, when moving from the first inner position to the first outer position through the opening of the apparatus main body, the drawer unit is configured to move in a movement direction intersecting a rotation axis of the first photosensitive drum and to move away from the second end.

5. The imaging apparatus of claim 4, wherein the transfer device is configured to move away from the second end when moving from the second inner position to the second outer position.

6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the opening and closing member supports the transfer device in a state in which the opening and closing member is opened, the drawer unit is in the first external position, and the transfer device is in the second external position, and the transfer device supported by the opening and closing member supports the drawer unit.

7. An image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein said drawer unit includes a second cartridge detachably attached to said supporting member and a second photosensitive drum provided on said second cartridge or said supporting member.

8. An image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein said second photosensitive drum is closer to said first end than said first photosensitive drum with said drawer unit in said first internal position, and a rotation axis of said second photosensitive drum is located above a rotation axis of said first photosensitive drum in a vertical direction.

9. The imaging apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the drawer unit is configured to move in a direction inclined with respect to a horizontal direction when moving from the first inner position to the first outer position.

10. The imaging apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the drawer unit is configured to move in a direction obliquely upward with respect to a horizontal direction when moving from the first inner position to the first outer position.

11. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4,

wherein in the closed state, the opening and closing member is configured to cover a first path through which the recording material traveling toward the fixing device passes, and

wherein the opening and closing member includes a second path through which the recording material having passed through the fixing device passes.

12. The imaging apparatus according to claim 11, wherein at least a portion of the second path is configured to be located in a space through which the drawer unit passes when moving from the first inner position to the first outer position with the opening and closing member in a closed state.