JP2006284818A - Development unit, image forming apparatus, image forming system, and photoreceptor unit - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To effectively prevent the damage of a memory unit without increasing the number of parts. <P>SOLUTION: The development unit which can be attached to/detached from an image forming apparatus main body has the memory unit equipped with a memory, and a label on which information on the development unit is recorded and which is stuck to the development unit so as to cover over the memory unit. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a developing unit, an image forming apparatus, an image forming system, and a photoreceptor unit.

  Image forming apparatuses such as laser beam printers are already well known. Such an image forming apparatus has, for example, a photoconductor for carrying a latent image, and a developing unit that develops the latent image carried on the photoconductor by a developer and is detachable from the image forming apparatus main body. When an image signal or the like is transmitted from an external device such as a host computer, the developing unit is positioned at a developing position facing the photosensitive member, and the latent image carried on the photosensitive member is moved with the developer in the developing unit. Development is performed to form a developer image, the developer image is transferred to a medium, and finally an image is formed on the medium.

Some of the developing units have a memory unit including a memory and have a label on which information on the developing unit is written.
International Publication No. 03/098356 Pamphlet

In determining the mounting position of the memory unit to the developing unit, it is necessary to consider the point of preventing damage to the memory unit. Since the development unit is attached / detached by a user or the like, it is possible to effectively damage the memory unit due to the user touching the memory unit or the memory unit contacting other members of the image forming apparatus when attaching / detaching. It is necessary to take measures to prevent it.
As a measure for solving this problem, a measure is known in which a memory unit is embedded in a developing unit and a lid is applied. However, in such a case, since the lid must be prepared separately, the number of parts increases.

  The present invention has been made in view of such problems, and an object of the present invention is to effectively prevent damage to the memory unit without increasing the number of parts.

  The main aspect of the present invention is a development unit that is detachable from an image forming apparatus main body, and includes a memory unit having a memory and information on the development unit, and is attached to the development unit so as to cover the memory unit And a developed label.

  Other features of the present invention will become apparent from the description of the present specification and the accompanying drawings.

  At least the following will be made clear by the description of the present specification and the accompanying drawings.

A development unit detachable from the image forming apparatus main body, including a memory unit including a memory, information on the development unit, a label attached to the development unit so as to cover the memory unit, A developing unit comprising:
According to such a developing unit, it is possible to effectively prevent damage to the memory unit without increasing the number of parts.

Further, the memory unit may be capable of wireless communication with the image forming apparatus main body side in a state where the developing unit is mounted on the image forming apparatus main body.
In such a case, it is possible to effectively prevent damage to the memory unit that can wirelessly communicate with the image forming apparatus main body without increasing the number of components.

The developing unit may be attached to the image forming apparatus main body by being inserted into the image forming apparatus main body, and the memory unit may be provided on the downstream side in the insertion direction of the developing unit. .
In such a case, it becomes difficult for a user or the like to touch the memory unit when the developing unit is attached or detached, and therefore it is possible to prevent damage to the memory unit more effectively.

The memory unit may be provided in a housing of the developing unit, and the label may be attached to the surface of the housing so as to cover the memory unit.
The memory unit may be bonded to the surface of the housing.
In such a case, the label not only effectively prevents damage to the memory unit without increasing the number of components, but also without increasing the number of components. It also has an effect of effectively preventing the memory unit from being peeled off from the housing by entering the space.

The housing may have a recess, the memory unit may be bonded to the surface of the recess, and the label may be attached to a portion of the housing other than the recess. .
In such a case, when the memory unit is housed in the depression, it becomes difficult for a user or the like to touch the memory unit, and damage to the memory unit can be more effectively prevented.

The maximum thickness of the memory unit may be smaller than the minimum depth of the recess.
In such a case, since the memory unit completely fits in the recess, it becomes difficult for a user or the like to touch the memory unit, and damage to the memory unit can be more effectively prevented.

Further, an air layer may be formed between the surface of the memory unit opposite to the adhesive surface and the back surface of the label.
In such a case, even when the user or the like presses the label, the air layer acts as a cushion, and damage to the memory unit is appropriately prevented.

Moreover, it is good also as having a cushion material between the surface on the opposite side to the adhesion surface of the said memory unit, and the back surface of the said label.
In such a case, even when the user or the like presses the label, the cushion material serves as a cushion, and damage to the memory unit is appropriately prevented.

  Further, the information may be information indicating precautions regarding the handling of the developing unit. The information may be information for issuing a warning to a person handling the developing unit. The information may be information indicating a supplier of the developing unit. The developing unit may contain a developer, and the information may be information indicating the color of the developer. The developing unit may be attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus by being inserted into the main body of the image forming apparatus, and the information may be information indicating an inserting direction of the developing unit.

In addition, the information may be information that prohibits the operator of the developing unit from gripping the portion of the developing unit to which the label is attached.
In such a case, the possibility that the operator such as a user touches the memory unit is reduced, and the damage to the memory unit can be more effectively prevented.

Further, information for urging the operator of the developing unit to hold another portion of the developing unit that is different from the portion to which the label is attached may be described.
In such a case, the possibility that the operator such as a user touches the memory unit is reduced, and the damage to the memory unit can be more effectively prevented.

A development unit that is detachable from the image forming apparatus main body, includes a memory unit that includes a memory, and a label that is attached to the development unit so as to cover the memory unit. The memory unit can wirelessly communicate with the image forming apparatus main body side in a state where the developing unit is mounted on the image forming apparatus main body, and the developing unit is connected to the image forming apparatus main body. Is inserted into the image forming apparatus main body, and the memory unit is provided downstream of the developing unit in the inserting direction, and the memory unit is provided in a housing of the developing unit. The label is attached to the surface of the housing so as to cover the memory unit, and the memory unit The housing is bonded to the surface of the housing, the housing has a recess, the memory unit is bonded to the surface of the recess, and the label is formed on the housing other than the recess. The maximum thickness of the memory unit is smaller than the minimum depth of the recess, and is between the surface of the memory unit opposite to the adhesive surface and the back surface of the label. An air layer is formed, and the information is information indicating precautions regarding the handling of the developing unit, and the information is information for issuing a warning to a person handling the developing unit. Is information indicating the supplier of the developing unit, the developer is stored in the developing unit, the information is information indicating the color of the developer, and the information is the developing unit. A developing unit, characterized in that the information indicating the insertion direction of Tsu bets are feasible.
In this way, the object of the present invention can be achieved more effectively because most of the effects described above can be achieved.

In addition, the image forming apparatus main body, a development unit detachably attached to the image forming apparatus main body, a memory unit including a memory, and information on the development unit are described, and the development is performed so as to cover the memory unit. An image forming apparatus including a developing unit having a label attached to the unit can also be realized.
According to such an image forming apparatus, it is possible to effectively prevent the memory unit from being damaged without increasing the number of parts.

Further, a computer and an image forming apparatus connectable to the computer, the image forming apparatus main body, a developing unit detachable from the image forming apparatus main body, a memory unit including a memory, An image forming system comprising: an image forming apparatus comprising: a developing unit that includes information about the developing unit and a label attached to the developing unit so as to cover the memory unit. It is feasible.
According to such an image forming system, it is possible to effectively prevent damage to the memory unit without increasing the number of parts.

In addition, a photosensitive unit that can be attached to and detached from the image forming apparatus main body, includes a memory unit including a memory, and information on the photosensitive unit, and is attached to the photosensitive unit so as to cover the memory unit. It is also possible to realize a photoconductor unit characterized by having a printed label.
According to such a photoreceptor unit, it is possible to effectively prevent damage to the memory unit without increasing the number of parts.

=== Overview of Image Forming Apparatus (Laser Beam Printer) ===
Next, an outline of a laser beam printer (hereinafter also referred to as a printer) 10 as an example of the image forming apparatus will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a detachable configuration of a developing unit 51 (52, 53, 54) and a photosensitive unit 75 with respect to a printer main body 10a as an example of an image forming apparatus main body. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing main components constituting the printer 10. 2 is a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the X direction in FIG. 1 and 2 indicate the vertical direction with arrows. For example, the paper feed tray 92 is disposed at the lower part of the printer 10, and the fixing unit 90 is disposed at the upper part of the printer 10. ing.

<<< detachable configuration >>>
The developing unit 51 (52, 53, 54) and the photoconductor unit 75 are detachable from the printer main body 10a. The developing unit 51 (52, 53, 54) and the photoconductor unit 75 are mounted on the printer main body 10a, whereby the printer 10 is configured.

The printer main body 10a includes a first openable / closable cover 10b, a second openable / closable cover 10c provided inside the first openable / closable cover 10b, a photoconductor unit attaching / detaching opening 10d for attaching / detaching the photoconductor unit 75, and The developing unit attaching / detaching opening 10e for attaching / detaching the developing unit 51 (52, 53, 54) is provided.
Here, when the user or the like opens the first opening / closing cover 10b, the photosensitive unit 75 can be attached to and detached from the printer main body 10a through the photosensitive unit attaching / detaching opening 10d. The photoreceptor unit 75 is attached to the printer main body 10a by being inserted into the printer main body 10a.
Further, when the user or the like opens the second opening / closing cover 10c, the developing unit 51 (52, 53, 54) can be attached to and detached from the printer main body 10a through the developing unit attaching / detaching opening 10e. The developing unit 51 (52, 53, 54) is attached to the printer main body 10a by being inserted into the printer main body 10a.

<<< Overview of Printer 10 >>>
An outline of the printer 10 in a state in which the developing unit 51 (52, 53, 54) and the photosensitive unit 75 are mounted on the printer main body 10a will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the printer 10 according to the present embodiment includes a charging unit 30, an exposure unit 40, a YMCK developing device 50, a primary transfer unit 60, an intermediate transfer body 70, along the rotation direction of the photoreceptor 20. The printer 10 has a cleaning blade 76, and further controls a secondary transfer unit 80, a fixing unit 90, a display unit 95 including a liquid crystal panel or the like for constituting a notification means to a user, etc., and these units. 3 has a control unit 100 (FIG. 3) for controlling the operation.

  The photoreceptor 20 has a cylindrical conductive substrate and a photosensitive layer formed on the outer peripheral surface thereof, and is rotatable around a central axis. In the present embodiment, the photoreceptor 20 is indicated by an arrow in FIG. Rotate clockwise.

  The charging unit 30 is a device for charging the photoconductor 20, and the exposure unit 40 is a device for forming a latent image on the photoconductor 20 charged by irradiating a laser. The exposure unit 40 includes a semiconductor laser, a polygon mirror, an F-θ lens, and the like, and charges the modulated laser based on an image signal input from a host computer (not shown) such as a personal computer or a word processor. The irradiated photoconductor 20 is irradiated.

  The YMCK developing device 50 includes a rotary 55 as a rotating body and four developing units attached to the rotary 55. The rotary 55 is rotatable, and includes four attachment / detachment portions 55b, 55c, 55d, and 55e in which each of the four development units 51, 52, 53, and 54 can be attached and detached through the development unit attachment / detachment opening 10e. . The black developing unit 51 containing black (K) toner can be attached to and detached from the attaching / detaching portion 55b, and the magenta developing unit 52 containing magenta (M) toner can be attached to and detached from the attaching / detaching portion 55c. The cyan developing unit 53 containing cyan (C) toner can be attached to and detached from the attaching / detaching portion 55d, and the yellow developing unit 54 containing yellow (Y) toner can be attached to and detached from the attaching / detaching portion 55e.

  The rotary 55 rotates to move the four developing units 51, 52, 53, and 54 attached to the detachable portions 55b, 55c, 55d, and 55e, respectively. In other words, the rotary 55 rotates the four developing units 51, 52, 53, and 54 that are mounted, with the relative position maintained around the central axis 55a. Then, the developing units 51, 52, 53, and 54 are selectively opposed to the latent image formed on the photoreceptor 20, and examples of the developer contained in the developing units 51, 52, 53, and 54, respectively. The latent image on the photoconductor 20 is developed with toner. Details of each developing unit will be described later.

  The primary transfer unit 60 is a device for transferring a single color toner image formed on the photoconductor 20 to the intermediate transfer body 70. When four color toners are sequentially transferred in a superimposed manner, the full color toner is transferred to the intermediate transfer body 70. An image is formed.

  This intermediate transfer body 70 is an endless belt in which a tin vapor deposition layer is provided on the surface of a PET film and a semiconductive paint is formed on the surface layer and laminated. The intermediate transfer body 70 is driven to rotate at substantially the same peripheral speed as the photoconductor 20. A synchronization reading sensor RS is provided in the vicinity of the intermediate transfer member 70. The synchronization reading sensor RS is a sensor for detecting the reference position of the intermediate transfer body 70, and obtains a synchronization signal Vsync in the sub-scanning direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction. The reading sensor RS for synchronization has a light emitting unit for emitting light and a light receiving unit for receiving light. When the light emitted from the light emitting unit passes through a hole formed at a predetermined position of the intermediate transfer body 70 and is received by the light receiving unit, the synchronization reading sensor RS generates a pulse signal. One pulse signal is generated every time the intermediate transfer member 70 rotates once.

The secondary transfer unit 80 is a device for transferring a single color toner image or a full color toner image formed on the intermediate transfer body 70 to a recording medium such as paper, film, or cloth.
The fixing unit 90 is a device for fusing a single color toner image or a full color toner image transferred onto a recording medium onto a recording medium such as paper to form a permanent image.

  The cleaning blade 76 is made of rubber and is in contact with the surface of the photoreceptor 20. The cleaning blade 76 scrapes and removes the toner remaining on the photoconductor 20 after the toner image is transferred onto the intermediate transfer body 70 by the primary transfer unit 60.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the control unit 100 includes a main controller 101 and a unit controller 102. An image signal is input to the main controller 101, and the unit controller 102 responds to a command based on the image signal. The unit is controlled to form an image.

  The photoconductor unit 75 is provided between the primary transfer unit 60 and the exposure unit 40, and stores waste toner that contains toner scraped off by the photoconductor 20, the charging unit 30, the cleaning blade 76, and the cleaning blade 76. The housing 76a, the housing 75b, the memory unit 75a provided in the housing 75b, and the like are included. The memory unit 75a can wirelessly communicate with the photoconductor unit main body side antenna 124a provided in the printer main body 10a.

=== Operation of Printer 10 ===
Next, the operation of the printer 10 configured as described above will be described with reference to other components.

  First, when an image signal from a host computer (not shown) is input to the main controller 101 of the printer 10 via the interface (I / F) 112, the photosensitive device is controlled by the unit controller 102 based on a command from the main controller 101. The body 20 and the intermediate transfer body 70 rotate. Thereafter, the reference position of the intermediate transfer body 70 is detected by the synchronization reading sensor RS, and a pulse signal is output. This pulse signal is sent to the unit controller 102 via the serial interface 121. The unit controller 102 controls the following operations based on the received pulse signal.

  The photoconductor 20 is sequentially charged by the charging unit 30 at the charging position while rotating. The charged area of the photoconductor 20 reaches an exposure position as the photoconductor 20 rotates, and a latent image corresponding to image information of the first color, for example, yellow Y, is formed in the area by the exposure unit 40. .

  The latent image formed on the photoconductor 20 reaches the development position as the photoconductor 20 rotates, and is developed with yellow toner by the yellow developing unit 54. As a result, a yellow toner image is formed on the photoreceptor 20.

  The yellow toner image formed on the photoconductor 20 reaches the primary transfer position as the photoconductor 20 rotates, and is transferred to the intermediate transfer body 70 by the primary transfer unit 60. At this time, a primary transfer voltage having a polarity opposite to the charging polarity of the toner is applied to the primary transfer unit 60. During this time, the photosensitive member 20 and the intermediate transfer member 70 are in contact with each other, and the secondary transfer unit 80 is separated from the intermediate transfer member 70.

  By repeating the above process for the second color, the third color, and the fourth color, the toner images of the respective colors corresponding to the respective image signals are transferred to the intermediate transfer member 70 in an overlapping manner. As a result, a full-color toner image is formed on the intermediate transfer member 70.

The full-color toner image formed on the intermediate transfer body 70 reaches the secondary transfer position as the intermediate transfer body 70 rotates, and is transferred to the recording medium by the secondary transfer unit 80. The recording medium is conveyed from the paper feed tray 92 to the secondary transfer unit 80 via the paper feed roller 94 and the registration roller 96. When performing the transfer operation, the secondary transfer unit 80 is pressed against the intermediate transfer body 70 and a secondary transfer voltage is applied.
The full color toner image transferred to the recording medium is heated and pressurized by the fixing unit 90 and fused to the recording medium.

  On the other hand, after the primary transfer position has elapsed, the toner adhering to the surface of the photoconductor 20 is scraped off by the cleaning blade 76 to prepare for charging for forming the next latent image. The toner scraped off is collected in the waste toner container 76a.

=== Overview of Control Unit ===
Next, the configuration of the control unit 100 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the control unit 100 provided in the printer 10.

  The main controller 101 of the control unit 100 is connected to a host computer via an interface 112 and includes an image memory 113 for storing image signals input from the host computer.

  The unit controller 102 of the control unit 100 includes units (charging unit 30, exposure unit 40, primary transfer unit 60, photoconductor unit 75, secondary transfer unit 80, fixing unit 90, display unit 95) and YMCK developing device 50. Each unit and YMCK development are detected based on a signal input from the main controller 101 while detecting the state of each unit and the YMCK development device 50 by receiving signals from the sensors that are electrically connected and provided. Control the device 50. As components for driving each unit and the YMCK developing device 50, in FIG. 3, a photosensitive unit drive control circuit, a charging unit drive control circuit, an exposure unit drive control circuit, a YMCK development device drive control circuit, and a primary transfer unit drive are shown. A control circuit, a secondary transfer unit drive control circuit, a fixing unit drive control circuit, and a display unit drive control circuit are shown.

  The CPU 120 included in the unit controller 102 is connected to a nonvolatile storage element such as a serial EEPROM (hereinafter also referred to as a main body side memory 122) via a serial interface (I / F) 121.

  The CPU 120 also includes memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, which will be described later, provided in the development units 51, 52, 53, 54 via the serial interface 121, the transmission / reception circuit 123, and the development unit main body antenna 124b. 54a and wireless communication is possible. Further, the CPU 120 can wirelessly communicate with the above-described memory unit 75a provided in the photoconductor unit 75 via the serial interface 121, the transmission / reception circuit 123, and the photoconductor unit main body antenna 124a. At the time of wireless communication, the development unit main body antenna 124b writes information in the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a provided in the development units 51, 52, 53, and 54, respectively. The development unit main body antenna 124b can also read information from the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a provided in the development units 51, 52, 53, and 54, respectively. At the time of wireless communication, the photoconductor unit main body antenna 124 a writes information into a memory unit 75 a provided in the photoconductor unit 75. The photoconductor unit main body antenna 124 a can also read information from a memory unit 75 a provided in the photoconductor unit 75.

=== Overview of Development Unit ===
Next, the outline of the developing unit will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing main components of the black developing unit 51. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the black developing unit 51 as viewed from the developing roller 510 side. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a state in which the label 580 is removed from the black developing unit 51 shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view showing the positional relationship between the housing 540, the memory unit 51a, and the label 580 of the black developing unit 51. FIG. FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the housing 540, the memory unit 51a, and the label 580 of the black developing unit 51. 9 to 11 will be described later. The cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 4 represents a cross-section obtained by cutting the black developing unit 51 along a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction shown in FIG. In FIG. 4, the vertical direction is indicated by an arrow. For example, the central axis of the developing roller 510 is below the central axis of the photoconductor 20. Further, in FIG. 4, the black developing unit 51 is shown in a state where the black developing unit 51 is located at the developing position facing the photoconductor 20.

  The rotary 55 includes a black developing unit 51 containing black (K) toner, a magenta developing unit 52 containing magenta (M) toner, a cyan developing unit 53 containing cyan (C) toner, and yellow (Y) toner. Although the accommodated yellow developing unit 54 is provided, the configuration of each developing unit is the same, so the black developing unit 51 will be described below.

  4 to 7, the black developing unit 51 includes a housing 540, a toner container 530, a developing roller 510, a toner supply roller 550, a regulating blade 560, a seal member 520, a memory unit 51a, a label 580, and the like. ing.

  The housing 540 is manufactured by welding an upper housing and a lower housing which are integrally formed, and a toner container 530 for containing the toner T is formed therein. The toner containing body 530 has two toner containing portions, that is, a first toner containing portion 530a and a second toner, by a regulating wall 545 for partitioning the toner T projected inwardly (in the vertical direction in FIG. 4) from the inner wall. It is divided into a housing portion 530b. The upper portions of the first toner storage portion 530a and the second toner storage portion 530b communicate with each other, and the movement of the toner T is restricted by the restriction wall 545.

  In addition, an opening 541 that communicates with the outside of the housing 540 is provided in the lower portion of the first toner storage portion 530a. A toner supply roller 550 is provided in the first toner storage portion 530 a so that its peripheral surface faces the opening 541 and is rotatably supported by the housing 540. Further, a developing roller 510 is provided from the outside of the housing 540 so that the circumferential surface faces the opening 541, and the developing roller 510 is in contact with the toner supply roller 550.

  The developing roller 510 carries the toner T and conveys it to a developing position facing the photoconductor 20. The developing roller 510 is made of aluminum, stainless steel, iron, or the like, and is subjected to nickel plating, chrome plating, or the like as necessary. Further, as shown in FIG. 5, the developing roller 510 is provided so that its longitudinal direction is along the longitudinal direction of the black developing unit 51. Further, the developing roller 510 is rotatable about the central axis, and as shown in FIG. 4, the developing roller 510 is rotated in a direction (counterclockwise in FIG. 4) opposite to the rotation direction of the photoconductor 20 (clockwise in FIG. 4). Rotate. The central axis is below the central axis of the photoconductor 20. As shown in FIG. 4, there is a gap between the developing roller 510 and the photoconductor 20 when the black developing unit 51 faces the photoconductor 20. That is, the black developing unit 51 develops the latent image formed on the photoconductor 20 in a non-contact state. When developing the latent image formed on the photoconductor 20, an alternating electric field is formed between the developing roller 510 and the photoconductor 20.

  The toner supply roller 550 supplies the toner T to the developing roller 510. The toner supply roller 550 is made of polyurethane foam or the like, and is in contact with the developing roller 510 in an elastically deformed state. The toner supply roller 550 is disposed below the first toner storage unit 530a, and the toner T stored in the first toner storage unit 530a and the second toner storage unit 530b is positioned below the first toner storage unit 530a. Then, the toner is supplied to the developing roller 510 by the toner supply roller 550. The toner supply roller 550 is rotatable about a central axis, and the central axis is below the rotation central axis of the developing roller 510. Further, the toner supply roller 550 rotates in a direction (clockwise in FIG. 4) opposite to the rotation direction of the developing roller 510 (counterclockwise in FIG. 4). The toner supply roller 550 has a function of supplying the toner T to the developing roller 510, and also has a function of peeling off the toner T remaining on the developing roller 510 after the development from the developing roller 510.

  The regulating blade 560 regulates the layer thickness of the toner T carried on the developing roller 510, and gives an electric charge to the toner T carried on the developing roller 510. The regulation blade 560 has a rubber part 560a and a rubber support part 560b. The rubber part 560a is made of silicon rubber, urethane rubber or the like, and the rubber support part 560b is a thin plate having spring properties such as phosphor bronze or stainless steel. The rubber part 560a is supported by the rubber support part 560b, and one end of the rubber support part 560b is fixed to the blade support metal plate 562. In this state, the rubber part 560a is pressed against the developing roller 510 by the elastic force due to the bending of the rubber support part 560b.

  Further, a blade back member 570 made of malt plane or the like is provided on the side opposite to the developing roller 510 side of the regulating blade 560. The blade back member 570 prevents the toner T from entering between the rubber support portion 560b and the housing 540, stabilizes the elastic force due to the bending of the rubber support portion 560b, and from the back of the rubber portion 560a to the rubber portion 560a. The rubber portion 560a is pressed against the developing roller 510 by urging the developing roller 510 toward the developing roller 510. Therefore, the blade back member 570 improves the uniform contact property and the sealing property of the rubber portion 560a to the developing roller 510.

  The end of the regulating blade 560 opposite to the side supported by the blade support metal plate 562, that is, the tip is not in contact with the developing roller 510, and a portion away from the tip by a predetermined distance is the developing roller. 510 is in contact with a width. That is, the regulating blade 560 is not in contact with the developing roller 510 at the edge, but is in contact with the belly. The regulating blade 560 is disposed so that the tip thereof faces the upstream side in the rotation direction of the developing roller 510, and is in a so-called counter contact. The contact position where the regulating blade 560 contacts the developing roller 510 is below the central axis of the developing roller 510 and below the central axis of the toner supply roller 550.

  The seal member 520 prevents the toner T in the black developing unit 51 from leaking out of the unit, and collects the toner T on the developing roller 510 that has passed through the developing position into the developing unit without being scraped off. The seal member 520 is a seal made of a polyethylene film or the like. The seal member 520 is supported by a seal support sheet metal 522. Further, a seal urging member 524 made of malt plain or the like is provided on the opposite side of the seal member 520 from the developing roller 510 side. The seal member 520 is developed by the elastic force of the seal urging member 524. 510 is pressed. Note that the contact position where the seal member 520 contacts the developing roller 510 is above the central axis of the developing roller 510.

  The housing 540 is provided with a memory unit 51a. The memory unit 51a according to the present embodiment is a member having a small and thin rectangular shape, which is called a memory tag or the like, and is commercially available in various types.

The memory unit 51 a has an adhesive surface 572 (adhesive surface) on the back surface, and the adhesive surface 572 is fixed to the housing 540 by adhering to the surface of the housing 540. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, the housing 540 has a recess 540a, and the memory unit 51a is bonded to the surface of the recess 540a in a state of fitting into the recess 540a. Yes. The memory unit 51 a is provided at the end in the longitudinal direction of the black developing unit 51. Note that, as shown in FIG. 5 and the like, the end is an end located on the downstream side in the insertion direction when the black developing unit 51 is inserted into the printer main body 10a.
The configuration of the memory unit 51a will be described in detail later.

  Further, a label 580 is affixed to the housing 540. The label 580 is made of a PET film, and various information regarding the black developing unit 51 is described on the label 580.

  As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the label 580 covers the memory unit 51a from the central portion in the longitudinal direction of the plaque developing unit 51 to the end located on the downstream side in the insertion direction. Affixed to the surface of the housing 540. As described above, the memory unit 51a is bonded to the surface of the recess 540a. However, as shown in FIG. 8, the maximum thickness t of the memory unit 51a is smaller than the minimum depth d of the recess 540a. Yes. Therefore, the label 580 is not adhered (not attached) to the depression 540a, and is adhered (attached) to a portion 540b other than the depression (that is, a portion of the housing 540 located around the depression 540a). It becomes. As shown in FIG. 8, the back surface of the label 580, more specifically, the surface of the back surface of the label 580 that is not bonded to the housing 540 and the side of the memory unit 51a opposite to the bonding surface 572 are provided. An air layer 590 is formed between the surface 574 and the surface 574.

  Information described on the label 580 will be described in detail later. Further, the memory unit 51a shown in FIG. 8 shows a protruding portion (protruding portion 576), and the protruding portion 576 is a protrusion of a non-contact IC chip 51b (to be described later) of the memory unit 51a. is there.

  In the black developing unit 51 configured as described above, the toner supply roller 550 supplies the toner T stored in the toner container 530 to the developing roller 510. The toner T supplied to the developing roller 510 reaches the contact position of the regulating blade 560 as the developing roller 510 rotates, and the layer thickness is regulated and electric charge is applied when passing through the contact position. Is done. The toner T on the developing roller 510 whose layer thickness is regulated reaches the developing position facing the photoconductor 20 by further rotation of the developing roller 510, and is formed on the photoconductor 20 under an alternating electric field at the developing position. Used for developing the latent image. The toner T on the developing roller 510 that has passed the developing position by further rotation of the developing roller 510 passes through the seal member 520 and is collected in the developing unit without being scraped off by the seal member 520.

<<< Memory unit configuration >>>
Next, the configuration of the memory unit 51a will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 9 is a plan view showing the configuration of the memory unit 51a. FIG. 10 is a block diagram for explaining the internal configuration of the memory unit 51a.

  Since the memory units provided in the developing units other than the black developing unit 51 are the same as the memory units 51a provided in the black developing unit 51, hereinafter, the memory units 51a provided in the black developing unit 51 are referred to as “memory units 51a”. Let's take an example.

  The memory unit 51a includes a thin plate substrate 51i as a thin plate plastic substrate having a rectangular shape, an antenna 51d in which copper foil is wired in a rectangular planar coil shape, and antenna terminals provided at both ends of the antenna. 51j, a non-contact IC chip 51b as an element having a memory, two aluminum connecting portions 51k that connect the chip terminal of the non-contact IC chip 51b and the antenna terminal 51j, and a space between them and 51i It has a film-like protective sheet 51m to be sandwiched.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the antenna has an antenna terminal 51j disposed on one end side in the longitudinal direction of a rectangular thin plate base material 51i, and is drawn about 10 turns in a coil shape along the outer shape of the thin plate base material 51i. The antenna terminal 51j is provided inside the antenna 51d. The outer antenna terminal 51j and the inner antenna terminal 51j are provided on the same side in the longitudinal direction of the thin plate substrate 51i. On the thin plate substrate 51i, ten copper foil patterns of the antenna 51d are arranged along the vertical and horizontal sides of the rectangle, and one end of the thin plate substrate 51i on the end side where the antenna terminal 51j is provided. The non-contact IC chip 51b is arranged between them at the corners. And the two connection parts 51k which connect the chip terminal (not shown) provided in the non-contact IC chip 51b and the antenna terminal 51j are bridged over five copper foil patterns, respectively. That is, the non-contact IC chip 51b, the two antenna terminals 51j, and the two coupling portions 51k are provided on one end side in the longitudinal direction on the thin plate base material 51i, and the other areas except the center. Then, a copper foil pattern as the antenna 51d is drawn.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the non-contact IC chip 51b includes a resonance capacitor 51c, a rectifier 51e, a signal analysis unit RF (Radio Frequency) 51f, a control unit 51g, and a memory cell 51h. The memory cell 51h is an electrically readable / writable non-volatile memory such as a NAND flash ROM, and is capable of storing written information and reading the stored information from the outside. .

  The antenna 51d of the memory unit 51a and the development unit main body antenna 124b communicate with each other wirelessly, and read information stored in the memory cell 51h and write information to the memory cell 51h. The high-frequency signal generated by the transmission / reception circuit 123 of the printer main body 10a is induced as a high-frequency magnetic field via the development unit main body antenna 124b. This high frequency magnetic field is absorbed through the antenna 51d of the memory unit 51a, rectified by the rectifier 51e, and becomes a direct current power source that drives each circuit in the non-contact IC chip 51b.

<<< About the information on the label >>>
Here, the information described in the label 580 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a label 580.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the label 580 describes information indicating precautions regarding the handling of the black developing unit 51. In the present embodiment, the information that prohibits touching the developing roller 510 at the position indicated by the symbol A as the information indicates that the black developing unit 51 is thrown into the fire at the position indicated by the symbol B. Information on prohibition is described respectively. Information indicating the insertion direction of the black developing unit 51 is written at a position indicated by a symbol C. In addition, information for issuing a warning to the operator of the black developing unit 51 is described at a position indicated by a symbol D in order to strictly observe these.

  Further, the label 580 includes information (symbol E) indicating the supplier of the black developing unit 51, information (symbol F) indicating the color of the toner in the developing unit (here, black), and the like. In addition, in this Embodiment, although the said supplier is represented by the mark (sun mark), it may be represented by the character.

=== Overview of Rotary ===
Next, the outline | summary of the rotary 55 is demonstrated using FIG. 12A, FIG. 12B, and FIG. 12C. The rotary 55 has a center shaft 55a located at the center thereof, and a support frame 55f for holding the developing unit is fixed to the center shaft 55a, and the center shaft 55a is two sheets constituting the housing of the printer 10. It is spanned between the frame side plates (not shown), and both ends thereof are supported. The axial direction of the central axis 55a intersects the vertical direction.
The support frame 55f is provided with four attaching / detaching portions at which the four developing units 51, 52, 53, 54 described above are detachably held at intervals of 90 ° in the circumferential direction.

  A pulse motor (not shown) is connected to the central shaft 55a via a clutch. By driving the pulse motor, the support frame 55f is rotated, and the four phenomenon units 51, 52, 53, 54 are connected to a predetermined axis. It can be positioned at a position.

  12A, 12B, and 12C are diagrams showing three stop positions of the rotating rotary 55, and FIG. 12A is a standby position when waiting for execution of image formation. FIG. 12B shows a communication position of the yellow developing unit 54 mounted on the rotary 55, and FIG. 15C shows a yellow position. The attachment / detachment position of the developing unit 54 is shown.

  Here, in FIGS. 12B and 12C, the communication position and the attach / detach position are shown for the yellow developing unit 54. However, when the rotary 55 is rotated by 90 °, the communication position and attach / detach position of each developing unit are obtained.

  First, the HP position shown in FIG. 12A will be described. An HP detector (not shown) for detecting the HP position is provided on one end side of the central shaft 55a of the rotary 55. The HP detection unit is composed of a signal generating disk fixed to one end of the central shaft 55a, and an HP sensor including a photo interrupter provided with a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit. The peripheral part of the disk is arranged so as to be positioned between the light emitting part and the light receiving part of the HP sensor, and when the slit part formed in the disk moves to the detection position of the HP sensor, the output from the HP sensor The signal changes from “L” to “H”. Then, the HP position of the rotary 55 is detected based on the change in the signal level and the number of pulses of the pulse motor, and each developing unit can be positioned at the communication position or the like based on the HP position.

  FIG. 12B shows a communication position of the yellow developing unit 54 in which the pulse motor is rotated by a predetermined number of pulses from the HP position. At the communication position of the yellow developing unit 54 shown in FIG. 12B, the memory unit 54a of the yellow developing unit 54 communicates wirelessly with the developing unit main body side antenna 124b provided in the printer main body 10a. The communication position with respect to the yellow developing unit 54 is the developing position of the black developing unit 51 with the developing roller 510 of the black developing unit 51 and the photoconductor 20 facing each other. That is, the communication position of the rotary 55 related to the yellow developing unit 54 is the developing position of the rotary 55 related to the black developing unit 51. When the pulse motor rotates the rotary 55 by 90 ° counterclockwise, the communication position of the black developing unit 51 and the developing position of the cyan developing unit 53 are reached, and each developing unit is sequentially turned each time the rotary 55 is rotated by 90 °. Communication position and development position.

  Further, the developing unit attaching / detaching opening 10e described above is provided in one of the two frame side plates that support the rotary 55 and form the housing of the printer 10. When the development unit attachment / detachment opening 10e is rotated to stop at the attachment / detachment position set for each development unit, as shown in FIG. 12C, the corresponding development unit (here, the yellow development unit) 54) is formed at a position where it can be pulled out in the direction along the central axis 55a and removed. Further, the developing unit attaching / detaching opening 10e is formed to be slightly larger than the outer shape of the developing unit. At the attaching / detaching position, not only the developing unit is removed, but also a new developing unit is installed along the central axis 55a through the developing unit attaching / detaching opening 10e. The developing unit can be attached to the support frame 55f. While the rotary 55 is located at a position other than the attachment / detachment position, the attachment / detachment of the developing unit is restricted by the frame side plate.

  The rotary 55 is provided with a lock mechanism (not shown) in order to reliably position and fix the rotary 55 at the above-described position.

=== Effectiveness of Development Unit According to the Present Embodiment ===
As described in the section of the problem to be solved by the invention, in determining the mounting positions of the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, 54a to the developing units 51, 52, 53, 54, the memory units 51a, 52a, It is necessary to consider the point of preventing breakage of 53a and 54a. Since the developing units 51, 52, 53, and 54 are attached and detached by a user or the like, the user or the like touches the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a, or the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a are connected to the printer when attached or detached. It is necessary to take measures to effectively prevent damage to the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, 54a due to contact with 10 other members.

As a measure for solving this problem, a measure is known in which the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a are embedded in the developing units 51, 52, 53, and 54, and a lid is applied. However, in such a case, since the lid must be prepared separately, the number of parts increases.
On the other hand, the development units 51, 52, 53, and 54 according to the present embodiment describe information about the development units 51, 52, 53, and 54 so as to cover the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a. A label 580 attached to the developing units 51, 52, 53, and 54 is provided. That is, in the present embodiment, the label 580 has a function of presenting information related to the developing units 51, 52, 53, and 54 to a handler (user or the like) of the developing units 51, 52, 53, and 54. Since the unit 51a, 52a, 53a, 54a has a function of covering and protecting the unit 51a, 52a, 53a, 54a, it is not necessary to prepare the above-described lid separately. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to effectively prevent the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a from being damaged without increasing the number of components.

=== Other Embodiments ===
The developing unit and the like according to the present invention have been described above based on the above-described embodiment. However, the above-described embodiment is intended to facilitate understanding of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Absent. The present invention can be changed and improved without departing from the gist thereof, and the present invention includes the equivalents thereof.

  In the above embodiment, an intermediate transfer type full color laser beam printer has been described as an example of the image forming apparatus. However, the present invention is not limited to the intermediate transfer type, such as a full color laser beam printer, a monochrome laser beam printer, a copying machine, and a facsimile. The present invention can be applied to various image forming apparatuses.

  The memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a are not limited to the above-described configuration described in the embodiment, and may be, for example, those in which the antenna 51d is a separate body. In the above embodiment, the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, 54a are capable of wireless communication with the printer main body 10a side with the developing units 51, 52, 53, 54 mounted on the printer main body 10a. However, the present invention is not limited to this.

In the above embodiment, the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, 54a are provided on the downstream side in the insertion direction of the developing units 51, 52, 53, 54. However, the present invention is not limited to this. is not. For example, memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a may be provided upstream of the developing units 51, 52, 53, and 54 in the insertion direction.
However, when the developing units 51, 52, 53, and 54 are attached to and detached from the printer main body 10a, it becomes difficult for a user or the like to touch the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a, and the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a are damaged. The above embodiment is preferable in that it can be more effectively prevented.

  In the above embodiment, the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a are provided in the housing 540 of the developing units 51, 52, 53, and 54, and the label 580 includes the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and Although it has been affixed on the surface of the housing 540 so as to cover 54a, it is not limited to this. For example, the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a may be provided in a portion other than the housing 540. Further, the label 580 may be attached to a part other than the housing 540.

In the above embodiment, the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a are bonded to the surface of the housing 540. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, 54a may be fixed to the housing 540 with screws.
However, the label 580 not only increases the number of parts, but also effectively prevents damage to the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a as described above, and the toner does not increase the number of parts. The above implementation is effective in effectively preventing the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, 54a from being peeled off the housing 540 by entering between the back surfaces of the 52a, 53a, 54a and the front surface of the housing 540. The form of is more effective.

Further, in the above embodiment, the housing 540 has a recess 540a, the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, 54a are bonded to the surface of the recess 540a, and the label 580 is other than the recess of the housing 540. Although it has been pasted on the portion 540b, it is not limited to this. For example, the housing 540 may not have the recess 540a.
However, since the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a are accommodated in the recesses 540a, it becomes difficult for a user or the like to touch the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a, and damage to the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a is more effective. The above embodiment is preferable in that it can be prevented.

In the above embodiment, the maximum thickness of the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, 54a is smaller than the minimum depth of the recess 540a. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the memory unit 51a , 52a, 53a, 54a may be larger than the minimum depth of the recess 540a.
However, since the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a are completely accommodated in the recesses 540a, it becomes difficult for a user or the like to touch the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a, and the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a are damaged. The above embodiment is preferable in that it can be more effectively prevented.

Further, in the above embodiment, the air layer 590 is formed between the surface 574 of the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, 54a opposite to the adhesive surface 572 and the back surface of the label 580. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the label 580 may be attached to the surface 574 of the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, 54a, and the air layer 590 may not be formed.
However, even when the user or the like presses the label 580, the air layer 590 serves as a cushion, and the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a are appropriately prevented from being damaged. Is preferred.

Further, as shown in FIG. 13, the developing units 51, 52, 53, 54 are formed by connecting the surface 574 of the memory units 51 a, 52 a, 53 a, 54 a opposite to the adhesive surface 572 and the back surface of the label 580. It is good also as having the cushioning material 595 in between.
In such a case, even when the user or the like presses the label 580, the cushion material 595 serves as a cushion, and damage to the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, and 54a is appropriately prevented. FIG. 13 corresponds to FIG. 8 and is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the cushion material 595.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, development information is used as information about the development unit described on the label 580 attached to the development units 51, 52, 53, 54 so as to cover the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, 54a. Information indicating precautions regarding unit handling, information for issuing a warning to the developer handling unit, information indicating the supplier of the developing unit, information indicating the color of the toner, and information indicating the insertion direction of the developing unit Although described as an example, the present invention is not limited to these, and any information may be used as long as the information is related to the developing unit.

Further, as shown in FIG. 14, as information on the development unit, information indicating that the operator of the development unit is prohibited from gripping the portion of the development unit where the label is attached is described on the label 580. It is good also as being done.
In such a case, the possibility that the operator such as a user touches the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, 54a is reduced, and damage to the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, 54a can be prevented more effectively. Become. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of information that prohibits the operator of the developing unit from gripping the portion of the developing unit to which the label is attached.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 15, information for prompting the operator to grip another part of the developing unit that is different from the part to which the label is attached is the label 580 or the other part. It is good also as what is described in.
Even in such a case, the possibility that the operator touches the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, 54a is reduced, and the damage to the memory units 51a, 52a, 53a, 54a can be more effectively prevented. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of information for prompting the handler to grip another part of the developing unit different from the part to which the label is attached.

  In the above description, the present invention is applied to the developing units 51, 52, 53, and 54. However, the present invention can also be applied to the photosensitive unit 75. As described above, the photoconductor unit 75 is provided with the memory unit 75a. The memory unit 75a has, for example, the above-described configuration, that is, the configuration illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, and as illustrated in FIG. 16, a label 75c on which information on the photosensitive unit 75 is described. However, it may be attached to the housing 75b of the photosensitive unit 75 so as to cover the memory unit 75a. FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view showing the positional relationship among the housing 75b, the memory unit 75a, and the label 75c of the photoconductor unit 75.

=== Configuration of Image Forming System etc. ===
Next, an image forming system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram showing an external configuration of the image forming system. The image forming system 700 includes a computer 702, a display device 704, a printer 706, an input device 708, and a reading device 710. In this embodiment, the computer 702 is housed in a mini-tower type housing, but is not limited thereto. The display device 704 is generally a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), a plasma display, a liquid crystal display device, or the like, but is not limited thereto. As the printer 706, the printer described above is used. In this embodiment, the input device 708 uses a keyboard 708A and a mouse 708B, but is not limited thereto. In this embodiment, the reading device 710 uses a flexible disk drive device 710A and a CD-ROM drive device 710B. However, the reading device 710 is not limited to this. For example, an MO (Magneto Optical) disk drive device or a DVD (Digital Versatile) is used. Disk) etc. may be used.

  FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the image forming system shown in FIG. An internal memory 802 such as a RAM and an external memory such as a hard disk drive unit 804 are further provided in a housing in which the computer 702 is housed.

  In the above description, the example in which the printer 706 is connected to the computer 702, the display device 704, the input device 708, and the reading device 710 to configure the image forming system has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Absent. For example, the image forming system may include a computer 702 and a printer 706, and the image forming system may not include any of the display device 704, the input device 708, and the reading device 710.

  For example, the printer 706 may have a part of the functions or mechanisms of the computer 702, the display device 704, the input device 708, and the reading device 710. As an example, the printer 706 includes an image processing unit that performs image processing, a display unit that performs various displays, a recording medium attachment / detachment unit for attaching / detaching a recording medium that records image data captured by a digital camera or the like. It is good also as a structure to have.

  The image forming system realized in this way is a system superior to the conventional system as a whole system.

FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining a detachable configuration of a developing unit 54 (51, 52, 53) and a photosensitive unit 75 with respect to a printer main body 10a. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating main components constituting the printer. 2 is a block diagram showing a control unit 100 provided in the printer 10. FIG. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing main components of a black developing unit 51. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a black developing unit 51 as viewed from the developing roller 510 side. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a state where a label 580 is removed from the black developing unit 51 shown in FIG. 5. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing a positional relationship among a housing 540, a memory unit 51a, and a label 580 of the black developing unit 51. FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a positional relationship among a housing 540, a memory unit 51a, and a label 580 of the black developing unit 51. FIG. It is a top view which shows the structure of the memory unit 51a. It is a block diagram for demonstrating the internal structure of the memory unit 51a. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a label 580. FIG. FIG. 12A shows the HP position. FIG. 12B is a diagram showing a communication position of the yellow developing unit 54. FIG. 12C is a diagram showing the attachment / detachment position of the yellow developing unit 54. It is the cross-sectional schematic diagram which showed the cushioning material 595. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of information indicating that a developer handling a development unit is prohibited from gripping a portion of a development unit to which a label is attached. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of information for prompting the handler to grip another portion of the developing unit that is different from the portion to which the label is attached. 7 is an exploded perspective view showing a positional relationship among a housing 75b, a memory unit 75a, and a label 75c of the photosensitive unit 75. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an external configuration of an image forming system. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the image forming system shown in FIG.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Printer 10a Printer main body 10b 1st opening / closing cover 10c 2nd opening / closing cover 10d Photoreceptor unit attaching / detaching opening 10e Developing unit attaching / detaching opening 20 Photoconductor 30 Charging unit 40 Exposure unit 50 YMCK developing device 51 Black developing unit 51a Memory unit 51b Non-contact IC Chip 51c Resonant capacitor 51d Antenna 51e Rectifier 51f Signal analysis unit RF
51g Control section 51h Memory cell 51i Thin plate base 51j Antenna terminal 51k Connection section 51m Protection sheet 52 Magenta development unit 52a Memory unit 53 Cyan development unit 53a Memory unit 54 Yellow development unit 54a Memory unit 55 Rotary 55a Central shaft 55b, 55c, 55d 55e Detachable section 55f Support frame 60 Primary transfer unit 70 Intermediate transfer body 75 Photosensitive unit 75a Memory unit 75b Housing 75c Label 76 Cleaning blade 76a Waste toner container 80 Secondary transfer unit 90 Fixing unit 92 Paper feed tray 94 Paper feed roller 95 Display unit 96 Registration roller 100 Control unit 101 Main controller 102 Unit controller 112 Interface Chair 113 Image memory 120 CPU
121 Serial Interface 122 Main Body Side Memory 123 Transmission / Reception Circuit 124a Photosensitive Unit Main Body Side Antenna 124b Development Unit Main Body Side Antenna 510 Developing Roller 520 Seal Member 522 Seal Support Sheet Metal 524 Seal Energizing Member 530 Toner Container 530a First Toner Container 530b Second toner accommodating portion 540 Housing 540a Depression 540b Non-depression portion 541 Opening 545 Restriction wall 550 Toner supply roller 560 Restriction blade 560a Rubber portion 560b Rubber support portion 562 Blade support metal plate 570 Blade back member 572 Adhesive surface 574 Surface 576 580 Label 590 Air layer 595 Cushion material 700 Image forming system 702 Computer 704 Display device 706 Printer 708 Input device 08A keyboard 708B mouse 710 reader 710A flexible disk drive device 710B CD-ROM drive device 802 internal memory 804 reading sensor for a hard disk drive unit T toner RS synchronization

Claims (20)

A developing unit detachable from the image forming apparatus main body,
A memory unit with a memory;
Information relating to the developing unit is described, and a label attached to the developing unit so as to cover the memory unit;
A developing unit comprising: The developing unit according to claim 1,
The developing unit, wherein the memory unit is capable of wireless communication with the image forming apparatus main body side in a state where the developing unit is mounted on the image forming apparatus main body. In the developing unit according to claim 1 or 2,
The developing unit is attached to the image forming apparatus main body by being inserted into the image forming apparatus main body,
The developing unit, wherein the memory unit is provided on the downstream side in the insertion direction of the developing unit. The developing unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The memory unit is provided in a housing of the developing unit,
The developing unit, wherein the label is affixed to a surface of the housing so as to cover the memory unit. The developing unit according to claim 4,
The developing unit, wherein the memory unit is bonded to a surface of the housing. In the developing unit according to claim 5,
The housing has a recess;
The memory unit is bonded to the surface of the recess,
The label is
A portion of the housing other than the recess,
A development unit that is affixed to. The developing unit according to claim 6, wherein
The developing unit according to claim 1, wherein a maximum thickness of the memory unit is smaller than a minimum depth of the recess. In the developing unit according to claim 6 or 7,
A developing unit, wherein an air layer is formed between a surface of the memory unit opposite to the adhesive surface and a back surface of the label. In the developing unit according to claim 6 or 7,
A developing unit comprising a cushion material between a surface of the memory unit opposite to the adhesive surface and a back surface of the label. The developing unit according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
The developing unit according to claim 1, wherein the information is information indicating precautions regarding handling of the developing unit. The developing unit according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
The developing unit according to claim 1, wherein the information is information for issuing a warning to a handler of the developing unit. The developing unit according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
The developing unit according to claim 1, wherein the information is information indicating a supplier of the developing unit. The developing unit according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
The developer unit contains a developer,
The developing unit according to claim 1, wherein the information is information indicating a color of the developer. The developing unit according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
The developing unit is attached to the image forming apparatus main body by being inserted into the image forming apparatus main body,
The developing unit according to claim 1, wherein the information is information indicating an insertion direction of the developing unit. The developing unit according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
The developing unit according to claim 1, wherein the information is information that prohibits an operator of the developing unit from gripping a portion of the developing unit to which the label is attached. The developing unit according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
Information for encouraging the operator of the developing unit to grip another part of the developing unit that is different from the part to which the label is attached;
Is a developing unit. A developing unit detachable from the image forming apparatus main body,
A memory unit with a memory;
Information relating to the developing unit is described, and a label attached to the developing unit so as to cover the memory unit;
Have
The memory unit is capable of wireless communication with the image forming apparatus main body side in a state where the developing unit is mounted on the image forming apparatus main body.
The developing unit is attached to the image forming apparatus main body by being inserted into the image forming apparatus main body,
The memory unit is provided on the downstream side in the insertion direction of the developing unit,
The memory unit is provided in a housing of the developing unit,
The label is attached to the surface of the housing so as to cover the memory unit,
The memory unit is bonded to the surface of the housing,
The housing has a recess;
The memory unit is bonded to the surface of the recess,
The label is
A portion of the housing other than the recess,
Pasted on,
The maximum thickness of the memory unit is smaller than the minimum depth of the depression,
An air layer is formed between the surface of the memory unit opposite to the adhesive surface and the back surface of the label.
The information is information indicating precautions regarding the handling of the developing unit,
The information is information for issuing a warning to the operator of the developing unit,
The information is information indicating a supplier of the developing unit,
The developer unit contains a developer,
The information is information indicating the color of the developer,
The developing unit according to claim 1, wherein the information is information indicating an insertion direction of the developing unit. An image forming apparatus main body;
A developing unit detachably attached to the image forming apparatus main body, a memory unit including a memory, a label on which information on the developing unit is described, and affixed to the developing unit so as to cover the memory unit; A developing unit having
An image forming apparatus comprising: Computer and
An image forming apparatus that can be connected to the computer, the image forming apparatus main body, a developing unit that can be attached to and detached from the image forming apparatus main body, a memory unit that includes a memory, and information about the developing unit A developing unit having a label affixed to the developing unit so as to cover the memory unit,
An image forming system comprising: A photosensitive unit detachable from the image forming apparatus main body,
A memory unit with a memory;
Information on the photosensitive unit is described, and a label attached to the photosensitive unit so as to cover the memory unit;
A photoreceptor unit comprising:

Images