JP2020115161A - Image formation apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide an image formation apparatus which prevents the early replacement of a consumable supply such as a developer cartridge that has not been used yet.SOLUTION: An image formation apparatus includes: an opening/closing cover which covers an attachment part to which a consumable supply for image formation is attached; a locking part which locks the opening/closing cover into the close state; an electric driving part which releases locking of the locking part; a driving circuit which drives the electric driving part; a determination part which determines that the attached consumable supply should be replaced; and a control part which sends a signal for releasing locking of the locking part to the driving circuit when receiving the signal of determining that the consumable supply should be replaced from the determination part, and drives the electric driving part to release locking of the locking part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus in which a consumable item such as a developer cartridge that supplies a developer for image formation can be attached and detached.

In image forming apparatuses such as laser printers, ink jet printers, and copying machines, when a developer cartridge that supplies the developer is used up, the user or a service person replaces the developer cartridge with a new developer cartridge. It will be.

In this replacement work, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, it is common to open the opening/closing cover of the apparatus main body to allow access to the inside of the apparatus main body and replace the developer cartridge.

US Pat. No. 6,768,877

In such replacement of the developer cartridge, the user may accidentally open the open/close cover and replace the developer cartridge that is still usable before the developer in the developer cartridge is completely consumed. ..

However, exchanging such a still usable developer cartridge at an early stage incurs extra cost for the user.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus that prevents early replacement of consumable items such as a developer cartridge that is still usable.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides an opening/closing cover for covering a mounting portion for mounting a consumable item for image formation, a lock portion for locking the opening/closing cover in a closed state, and unlocking of the lock portion. An electric drive unit, a drive circuit for driving the electric drive unit, a determination unit that determines that the attached consumable item is in a state to be replaced, and the consumable item should be exchanged from the determination unit. And a control unit that sends a signal for unlocking the lock unit to the drive circuit and drives the electric drive unit to unlock the lock unit when a signal for determining that the state has been reached is received. The image forming apparatus has the following.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus that prevents early replacement of consumable items such as developer cartridges that are still usable.

1 is a schematic front sectional view of a printer according to a first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the printer according to the first embodiment. It is a principal part perspective view of the holding mechanism of the opening/closing cover which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a sectional view of a drive part of a lock mechanism which locks an opening-and-closing cover in a closed state concerning a 1st embodiment. It is sectional drawing explaining the lock operation of the lock mechanism which locks the open-close cover which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is sectional drawing explaining the lock release operation of the lock mechanism which locks the open-close cover which concerns on 1st Embodiment. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an operation detection mechanism that detects that the open/close cover has been opened according to the first embodiment. It is a circuit block diagram which shows the control structure which concerns on 1st Embodiment. 9 is a flowchart of the control circuit of FIG. 8 according to the first embodiment. 9 is a flowchart of the control circuit of FIG. 8 according to the first embodiment. It is a principal part perspective view explaining the structure which releases manually the lock mechanism which has locked the opening-closing cover in 1st Embodiment in the closed state. It is a perspective view of the printer which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of FIG. 12 in a state in which a lock mechanism that locks the open/close cover according to the second embodiment in a closed state is released. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of FIG. 12 in a locked state of the lock mechanism that locks the open/close cover in the closed state according to the second embodiment. It is a principal part exploded perspective view of FIG. 13 which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a principal part expansion disassembled perspective view of FIG. 13 which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of FIG. 12 in a state in which the lock mechanism that locks the open/close cover according to the third embodiment in the closed state is released. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of FIG. 12 in a locked state of the lock mechanism that locks the open/close cover in the closed state according to the third embodiment. It is a principal part disassembled perspective view of FIG. 17 which concerns on 3rd Embodiment.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The constituent elements described in the following embodiments are merely examples, and various conditions such as the configuration, function, material, shape, and relative arrangement of the device to which the present invention is applied without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Can be appropriately modified or changed, and is not limited to the following embodiments. For example, in the following embodiments, a color laser printer based on an electrophotographic image forming process will be described as an example of the image forming apparatus, but the present invention is not limited to the image forming apparatus using the electrophotographic image forming process, and other types such as an inkjet system. The image forming apparatus according to the above method may be used.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a schematic front sectional view of a color laser printer as an image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment.

In FIG. 1, the printer 100 is provided with an image forming unit 100A that forms an image by an electrophotographic method. The image forming unit 100A is provided with four photosensitive drums 101Y, 101M, 101C and 101K which respectively form toner images of four colors of yellow, magenta, cyan and black. Further, there is provided an endless intermediate transfer belt 102 which is in contact with these four photosensitive drums 101Y, 101M, 101C and 101K and which primarily transfers the toner images formed on the photosensitive drums 101Y, 101M, 101C and 101K. ..

Further, primary transfer rollers 106Y, 106M, 106C and 106K that form a nip between the inner peripheral side of the intermediate transfer belt 102 and the intermediate transfer belt 102 with respect to the photosensitive drums 101Y, 101M, 101C and 101K are provided. There is. The primary transfer rollers 106Y, 106M, 106C, and 106K cause a potential difference between the photosensitive drums 101Y, 101M, 101C, and 101K and the intermediate transfer belt 102 so that the toner image is primarily transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 102. .. Further, a secondary transfer roller 105 that forms a nip between the intermediate transfer belt 102 and secondarily transfers the image transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 102 onto a sheet 114 such as a print sheet is provided.

When the image forming operation is started in the image forming unit 100A, the laser scanner 103 irradiates the photosensitive drums 101Y, 101M, 101C, 101K with light corresponding to the image signal, and the latent images are formed on the photosensitive drums 101Y, 101M, 101C, 101K. An image is formed.

Next, the latent image is developed with the toner stored in the developing cartridges 104Y, 104M, 104C, 104K having the developing roller, so that a toner image (visible image) is formed on the photosensitive drums 101Y, 101M, 101C, 101K. Is formed.

The toner images formed on the photosensitive drums 101Y, 101M, 101C, and 101K are next primarily transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 102, and the toner images primarily transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 102 are secondarily transferred by the intermediate transfer belt 102. It is transported to the transfer section.

In parallel with the above toner image forming operation, the sheets 114 are fed one by one from the sheet storage unit 107 by the pickup roller 108. Then, the sheet 114 is conveyed to the secondary transfer portion formed by the nip between the intermediate transfer belt 102 and the secondary transfer roller 105 by the feed roller 109 and the registration roller 110 that corrects the skew of the sheet 114.

Here, the sheet 114 needs to be aligned with the toner image formed on the intermediate transfer belt 102 in the sheet conveying direction. Therefore, the registration roller 110 and the feed roller 109 control the conveyance speed of the sheet 114, and the timing of the conveyance operation of the sheet 114 with respect to the toner image formed on the intermediate transfer belt 102 is adjusted. Then, the toner image is transferred from the intermediate transfer belt 102 to the sheet 114 by applying a bias to the secondary transfer roller 105 at the secondary transfer portion.

The sheet 114 on which the toner image is transferred is conveyed to the fixing unit 111, and the toner image is fixed on the sheet 114 by being heated and pressed in the fixing unit 111, and the discharging roller 112 discharges the toner to the upper discharging unit 113 of the printer 100. Is discharged to.

Since the photosensitive drums 101Y, 101M, 101C and 101K and the developing cartridges 104Y, 104M, 104C and 104K are consumable items, they are detachably attached to the mounting portion of the printer 100 so that they can be replaced when necessary. ing. The developing cartridges 104Y, 104M, 104C, and 104K are provided with known toner remaining amount detection sensors, respectively, and the remaining amount of toner in each developing cartridge is monitored.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a state in which the opening/closing cover 1 of the printer 100 for replacing the photosensitive drums 101Y, 101M, 101C, 101K and the developing cartridges 104Y, 104M, 104C, 104K is opened.

In FIG. 2, the photosensitive drums 101Y, 101M, 101C, 101K and the developing cartridges 104Y, 101M, 101C, 101K can be attached/detached in the opening direction by opening the opening/closing cover 1 covering their mounting portions. Becomes

When the opening/closing cover 1 is closed, the latches 4b and 4c as holding portions provided on the main body of the printer 100 lock the latch locking portions 1a and 1b of the opening/closing cover 1, respectively, so that the opening/closing cover 1 is opened. Holds closed.

The operation portion 2 is an operation portion for releasing the engagement of the latch engagement portions 1a and 1b of the opening/closing cover 1, and is a lever pulled toward the front when the opening/closing cover 1 is opened. When the operation portion 2 is pulled toward you, the latch portions 4b and 4c interlock and slide to release the latch engagement portions 1a and 1b of the opening/closing cover 1 and the opening/closing cover 1 is opened. ..

The operation panel 14 as a display unit is a user interface of the printer 100 that performs various displays and operation inputs.

FIG. 3 illustrates a mechanism in which the latches 4b and 4c release the latches 1a and 1b of the opening/closing cover 1 when the operation unit 2 of FIG. 2 is operated. 3A is a perspective view of a main part showing a state in which the latch portions 4b and 4c are latching the latch locking portions 1a and 1b of the opening/closing cover 1, and FIG. 3B is a latch portion 4b and 4c. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of relevant parts showing a state in which the latches 1a and 1b of the opening/closing cover 1 are unlocked.

In FIGS. 3A and 3B, the latch 4 is composed of a latch shaft 4a, a latch portion 4b, and a latch portion 4c, and these move as a unit. The latch spring 5 biases the latch 4 in the direction of the arrow R at which the latch portions 4b and 4c lock the latch locking portions 1a and 1b of the opening/closing cover 1.

From the state in which the latch 4 shown in FIG. 3A is latching the latch locking portions 1a and 1b of the opening/closing cover 1, the handle portion 2a of the operation portion 2 is changed from the state shown in FIG. When pulled in the direction of arrow D, the operating portion 2 rotates in the direction of arrow D around the operation rotating shaft 2b. As a result, the operating portion tip 2c pushes the first arm 6b of the connecting member 6 which constitutes the moving portion shown in FIG. 3A, whereby the connecting member 6 is rotated around the rotating shaft 40 in the direction of arrow E. To move.

By this rotation, the second arm 6c of the connecting member 6 pushes the pressed portion 4d of the latch 4 in the direction of arrow L against the biasing force of the latch spring 5. When the connecting member 6 pivotally moves in the direction of arrow E to a predetermined position, the latch 4 slides to a lock release position where the latch portions 4b and 4c release the latch lock portions 1a and 1b of the opening/closing cover 1. Moving. As a result, the opening/closing cover 1 is opened in the direction of arrow F.

FIG. 4 illustrates a drive unit of a lock mechanism that locks the open/close cover 1 in the closed state by disabling the latches 1a and 1b of the open/close cover 1 by the latches 4b and 4c. FIG. 4A is a sectional view showing a locked state of the drive unit of the lock mechanism, and FIG. 4B is a sectional view showing an unlocked state of the drive unit of the lock mechanism.

In FIGS. 4A and 4B, the lock lever 7 forming the lock portion and the regulating portion is rotatably held around the rotation shaft 41, and one end thereof is indicated by an arrow by a lock spring 8 as a biasing member. It is pulled in the direction of G and rotates in the direction of arrow H. On the other hand, the other end of the lock lever 7 is pulled in the direction of arrow J by the solenoid 11 constituting the electric drive unit and rotated in the direction of arrow K. The position control of the lock position and the lock release position is performed by the balance between the strength of the biasing force of the lock spring 8 and the attraction force of the solenoid 11, and the lock mechanism is configured by these.

The pulling of the lock lever 7 in the direction of the arrow J by the solenoid 11 is performed by the plunger 11a pulled by the solenoid 11 by the magnetic force pulling the lock lever 7 via the spring pin 11b.

In the locked state shown in FIG. 4A, the force relationship between the biasing force of the lock spring 8 and the attraction force by the magnetic force of the solenoid 11 has a relationship of “biasing force of the lock spring 8>attraction force of the solenoid 11”. As a result, the lock lever 7 is pulled in the direction of arrow J, pivots in the direction of arrow H, and the lock position is determined at the position where it abuts against the rotation stopper 16.

In the unlocked state shown in FIG. 4B, when an attraction command is applied to the solenoid 11 and the magnetic force is strengthened, the force relationship between the biasing force of the lock spring 8 and the attraction force by the magnetic force of the solenoid 11 becomes “lock spring 8”. Urging force of <the attraction force of the solenoid 11>. As a result, the plunger 11a is pushed down in the direction of arrow J, and the lock lever 7 is pulled by the plunger 11a to rotate in the direction of arrow K and moves to the unlocked position.

FIG. 5 illustrates the locking operation of the lock mechanism that locks the open/close cover 1 in the closed state. 5A is a cross-sectional view showing a state before the opening/closing cover 1 is opened by the operation unit 2, and FIG. 5B is a state when the opening/closing cover 1 is opened by the operation unit 2. It is sectional drawing shown.

When the operating portion 2 is operated to open the open/close cover 1 as described in FIG. 3 in the locked state of the locking mechanism, the connecting member 6 rotates in the direction of arrow E in conjunction with the operation of the operating portion 2. It moves from the position of (A) of FIG. 5 to the position of (B) of FIG.

In the state of FIG. 5B, since the lock lever 7 is rotated in the direction of the arrow H by the lock spring 8 as described above, the lock lever 7 abuts on the lock abutting surface 6 a of the connecting member 6, and the connecting member 6 The rotational movement of 6 is restricted. In the state of FIG. 5B, since the second arm 6c of the connecting member 6 is located before the pressing portion 4d of the latch 4 is pushed, the latch portions 4b and 4c of the latch 4 are latched by the opening/closing cover 1. It cannot slide to the unlocking position where the locking of the parts 1a, 1b is released. In other words, the locking of the open/close cover 1 cannot be released, so the open/close cover 1 is not opened.

FIG. 6 illustrates the unlocking operation of the lock mechanism that locks the open/close cover 1 in the closed state. 6A is a cross-sectional view showing a state before the opening/closing cover 1 is operated to be opened by the operating section 2, and FIG. 6B shows a state when the opening/closing cover 1 is operated to be opened by the operating section 2. It is sectional drawing shown.

When the operation unit 2 is operated to open the opening/closing cover 1 as described in FIG. 3 in the unlocked state of the lock mechanism, the connecting member 6 rotates in the direction of arrow E in conjunction with the operation of the operation unit 2. 6A to the position of FIG. 6B.

In the state of FIG. 6B, since the lock lever 7 is rotated in the arrow K direction by the attraction force of the solenoid 11 as described above, the lock lever 7 retreats from the restricting position where it abuts the lock abutting surface 6a of the connecting member 6. Therefore, the rotation of the connecting member 6 is not restricted. Therefore, the second arm 6c of the connecting member 6 can push the pressed portion 4d of the latch 4, the latch 4 slides to the unlocked position in the direction of the arrow L, and the latch portions 4b and 4c are opened and closed. The latches 1a and 1b can be unlocked. That is, since the locking of the open/close cover 1 can be released, the open/close cover 1 is opened.

FIG. 7 illustrates an operation detection mechanism that detects that the user has operated the operation unit 2. FIG. 7A is a perspective view showing the entire operation detection mechanism including a lock mechanism, and FIG. 7B. , (C) and (D) are perspective views showing a main part of the operation detection mechanism.

7(A), (B), (C), and (D), the switch lever 10 that pushes the operation detection switch 9 that detects that the operation unit 2 has been operated is rotated coaxially with the lock lever 7. It is rotatably held on the shaft 41 and engages with the third arm 6d of the connecting member 6 at the engagement surface 10a.

When the operation unit 2 is not operated, the switch lever 10 does not press the operation detection switch 9 as shown in FIG. 7B.

7C shows the state of the switch lever 10 when the operation unit 2 is operated in the locked state in which the opening/closing cover 1 is locked in the closed state and the state corresponding to FIG. 5B is obtained. ) State. By pushing the engagement surface 10a of the switch lever 10 by the third arm 6d of the rotated connecting member 6, the operation detection switch 9 is pushed by the switch lever 10. When the operation detection switch 9 is pushed to the ON position, the signal is sent to the control circuit described later and it is detected that the operation unit 2 has been operated.

FIG. 7 shows the state of the switch lever 10 when the operating portion 2 is operated in the unlocked state in which the open/close cover 1 is unlocked and the state corresponding to FIG. 6B is reached. (D) state. Since the rotational position of the connecting member 6 moves from the state of FIG. 7C to a further advanced position, the engagement position of the arm 6d with the switch lever 10 changes from the engagement surface 10a to the engagement surface 10b. Moving. Since the engagement surface 10b has a circular arc shape concentric with the rotation shaft 40 and contacts the third arm 6d, the amount by which the switch lever 10 pushes the operation detection switch 9 is constant even if the rotation amount of the connecting member 6 advances.

As described above, the switch lever 10 detects that the operation unit 2 is operated when the operation unit 2 is operated, regardless of the locked state and the unlocked state of the lock mechanism that locks the open/close cover 1 in the closed state. Is possible.

Note that the solenoid 11 applies a current to operate the plunger 11a when controlling the locking and unlocking of the lock mechanism that locks the open/close cover 1 in the closed state as shown in FIGS. Generate and control a magnetic field. However, when a patient using a pacemaker is near the printer 100, the generation of this magnetic field may be unfavorable because of a fear of malfunction. Therefore, the solenoid 11 is designed to completely cover the projected cross section including the operation area of the plunger 11a by the solenoid holding metal plate 12 shown in FIG. 7A, so that the magnetic radiation is shielded.

FIG. 8 is a circuit block diagram showing the control configuration of this embodiment.

In FIG. 8, 201 is a control circuit as a control unit composed of a CPU that controls the entire circuit, and 202 is an operation detection circuit that detects that the operation detection switch 9 is turned on by operating the operation unit 2. Reference numeral 203 denotes an opening/closing cover closing detection circuit as a closing detection unit that detects that the opening/closing cover 1 is closed, and reference numeral 204 denotes a display drive circuit of the operation panel 14 of FIG. Reference numeral 205 is a toner remaining amount detection circuit as a determination unit for detecting the toner remaining amount of the developing cartridges 104Y, 104M, 104C, 104K by the toner remaining amount detection sensor, and 206 is a drive circuit of the solenoid 11.

Next, the operation of the lock mechanism of the open/close cover 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart of the control circuit 201 of FIG. 8 shown in FIG.

In step S01, when the remaining toner amount detection circuit 205 detects that the remaining amount of toner in the developing cartridges 104Y, 104M, 104C, 104K has decreased to a predetermined amount or less, the control circuit 201 receives the signal and proceeds to step S02. .. In other words, when the control circuit 201 determines by the toner remaining amount detection circuit 205 that the developing cartridge should be replaced, the control circuit 201 receives the signal and proceeds to step S02.

In step S02, upon receiving the signal that the developing cartridge has been determined to be in a state to be replaced, a signal for driving the solenoid 11 is sent to the solenoid drive circuit 206. As a result, the solenoid drive circuit 206 drives the solenoid 11 to pull the lock lever 7 and release the locking and holding the open/close cover 1 in the closed state.

After that, in step S03, the opening/closing cover closing detection circuit 203 detects that the developing cartridge has been replaced with a new one and the opening/closing cover 1 has been closed, and in step S04,
When the remaining toner amount detection circuit 205 detects that the remaining amount of toner in the developing cartridges 104Y, 104M, 104C, 104K is less than the predetermined amount, the solenoid drive circuit 206 stops driving the solenoid 11 in step S05. .. As a result, the lock lever 7 is pulled by the lock spring 8 and the locked state of the open/close cover 1 in the closed state cannot be released.

On the other hand, in step S01, it is determined by the toner remaining amount detection circuit 205 that the toner remaining amount of the developing cartridges 104Y, 104M, 104C, 104K has not decreased to a predetermined amount or less, and the developing cartridge is not in a state to be replaced yet. Then, the process proceeds to step S06. In step S06, the solenoid 11 is not driven, and the locking and holding the open/close cover 1 in the closed state cannot be released. Therefore, since the user cannot open the opening/closing cover 1, the developer cartridge is not replaced, and it is possible to prevent the developer cartridge that is still usable from being replaced early.

Next, the display operation of the operation panel 14 when the user operates the operation unit 2 to open the opening/closing cover 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart of the control circuit 201 in FIG. 8 shown in FIG.

In step S11, when the operation detection circuit 202 detects that the user has operated the operation unit 2 to open the opening/closing cover 1 by turning on the operation detection switch 9, the process proceeds to step 12. In step S12, the remaining toner amount detection circuit 205 detects whether the remaining amount of toner in the developing cartridges 104Y, 104M, 104C, 104K has decreased to a predetermined amount or less.

When the remaining toner amount detection circuit 205 detects that the remaining amount of toner in the developing cartridges 104Y, 104M, 104C, 104K has decreased to a predetermined amount or less, and it is determined that the developing cartridges should be replaced, the process proceeds to step S13. .. In step 13, in response to the determination that the developing cartridge is in the state to be replaced, the display drive circuit 204 displays on the operation panel 14 according to the state in which the developing cartridge is to be replaced. Specifically, the operation panel 14 visually or audibly gives instructions that the open state of the open/close cover 1 can be unlocked and the developer cartridge can be replaced, and instructions necessary for replacement and a replacement method are provided.

On the other hand, in step S12, the remaining toner amount detection circuit 205 determines that the remaining amount of toner in the developing cartridges 104Y, 104M, 104C, and 104K has not decreased to a predetermined amount or less, and the developing cartridge is not in a state to be replaced yet. Then, the process proceeds to step S14.

In step S14, in response to the determination that the developing cartridge is not yet in the state to be replaced, the display drive circuit 204 displays on the operation panel 14 a message indicating that the developing cartridge is not in the state to be replaced. I do. More specifically, since the developing cartridge is still usable, the operation panel 14 visually or audibly informs that the lock of the open/close cover 1 in the closed state cannot be released, not at the replacement timing.

The display depending on whether or not the holding of the closed state of the open/close cover 1 performed on these operation panels can be released may be a display other than the above.

FIG. 11 illustrates a configuration for urgently performing manual unlocking when an electrical component that drives the solenoid 11 fails and the lock mechanism that locks the open/close cover 1 in a closed state cannot be unlocked. 11A is an external perspective view of the printer 100, and FIG. 11B is a perspective view of a main part of the printer 100.

In FIG. 11B, when the lock mechanism that locks the opening/closing cover 1 is in the locked state, the rotation region of the connecting member 6 is restricted by the lock lever 7 as described above, and the locking/holding of the opening/closing cover 1 cannot be released. It is like this. Therefore, if the electric component fails and the solenoid 11 cannot release the restriction of the rotation region of the connecting member 6 of the lock lever 7, the opening/closing cover 1 cannot be opened. However, since the operation itself of the latch 4 is not restrained, the latch release portion 15 provided on the latch 4 is pushed in the direction of the arrow L by the tool 31 to slide the latch 4 and hold the opening/closing cover 1 in the locked state. And the opening/closing cover 1 can be opened.

At this time, as shown in FIG. 11(A), the tool 31 is inserted from the gap above the opening/closing cover 1 in the printer 100, and the latch release section 15 is pushed in the direction of the arrow L to lock the opening/closing cover 1. Release the hold.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment will be described. Since the basic configuration of the present embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, duplicated portions will be omitted as they are incorporated. Further, components having the same functions as those in the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a state in which the opening/closing cover 1 of the printer 100 for replacing the photosensitive drums 101Y, 101M, 101C, 101K and the developing cartridges 104Y, 104M, 104C, 104K according to the second embodiment is opened. .. FIG. 13 is a sectional view taken along line AA of FIG. 13A shows the state before the opening operation of the opening/closing cover 1 in the unlocked state in which the lock mechanism for locking the opening/closing cover 1 in the closed state is released, and FIG. 13B shows the unlocked state. 2 shows a state when the opening/closing cover 1 in FIG.

In FIGS. 12 and 13B, the cover button 32 as an operation unit for releasing the locking of the latch locking portions 1a and 1b of the opening/closing cover 1 is pressed by the user in the direction of arrow M. By doing so, the open/close cover 1 is opened.

13A and 13B, the locking and unlocking mechanism of the latch locking portions 1a and 1b of the opening/closing cover 1 includes a first link 20 that constitutes a second moving portion and a first link 20. It includes a second link 21 that constitutes a moving unit. Further, it includes a link spring 22 as an elastic member provided between the first link 20 and the second link 21, a latch 4, a latch holder 23, and a latch spring 5 provided between the latch 4 and the latch holder 23. ..

The first link 20, the second link 21, and the latch 4 are slidably attached to the latch holder 23. The position of the latch 4 is determined by the contact portion 4e hitting the abutting portion 23a of the latch holder 23 by the biasing force of the latch spring 5. The positions of the second link 21 and the first link 20 are determined by determining the position of the latch 4.

FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of an essential part in which the first link 20, the second link 21, the latch 4, and the latch holder 23 are extracted.

In FIG. 15, the latch 4 is slidably attached by fitting the bosses 23j and 23k provided in the latch holder 23 with the holes 4g and 4h provided in the latch 4. The second link 21 is slidably mounted by fitting the bosses 21b and 21c provided in the second link 21 into the holes 23b and 23c provided in the latch holder 23. Further, in the second link 21, the abutting portion 21a of the second link is pressed by the pressing portion 4f of the latch 4 by the biasing force of the latch spring 5, and the latch portions 4b and 4c lock the latch locking portions 1a and 1b. It is configured to move to the position of the state where it does.

The first link 20 is slidably attached by fitting a groove (not shown) provided on the first link 20 into a boss 23d provided on the latch holder 23.

FIG. 16 is an enlarged exploded perspective view of an essential part in which the first link 20 and the second link 21 are extracted.

As shown in FIG. 16, the first link 20 is urged in a direction away from each other by a link spring 22 provided between the first link 20 and the second link 21, and the hook portion 20a of the first link is moved to the first position. It abuts against the abutment portion 21d of the hole portion of the 2 link.

The link spring 22 provided between the first link 20 and the second link 21 and the latch spring 5 have a force relationship of “biasing force of the link spring 22>biasing force of the latch spring 5”. Therefore, when the cover button 32 is pressed, the first link 20 engaged with the cover button 32 moves, the second link 21 moves due to the urging force of the link spring 22, and the latch 4 also moves. That is, the link spring 22 transmits the operation of the first link 20 to the second link 21 when the cover button 32 is pushed down, and moves the first link 20 to the second link 21 when the cover button 32 is not pushed down. Abutting against.

Next, the operation when the latch holding portions 1a, 1b of the opening/closing cover 1 are released from the latch hold will be described.

In FIG. 12 and FIG. 13B, when the user pushes down the cover button 32 in the direction of arrow M, as shown in FIG. Slide in the L direction. Then, the second link 21 slides in the direction of arrow L via the urging force of the link spring 22 provided between the first link 20 and the second link 21. As a result, the latch 4 engaging with the second link 21 slides in the direction of the arrow L, and the second link 21 slides to a predetermined position, so that the latch portions 4b and 4c of the latch 4 move to the opening/closing cover 1. The latches 1a and 1b are unlocked to open the open/close cover 1.

Next, the operation when the latch locking portions 1a and 1b of the open/close cover are locked and held will be described.

Due to the urging force of the latch spring 23 provided between the latch holder 23 to which the latch 4 is attached and the latch 4, the latch 4, the first link 20, and the second link 21 move in the opposite direction from when the cover button 32 is pressed. Moving. Accordingly, the latch portions 4b, 4c lock the latch locking portions 1a, 1b of the opening/closing cover 1, whereby the opening/closing cover 1 is locked and held in the closed state. Further, the contact portion 4e of the latch 4 abuts on the abutting portion 23a of the latch holder 23 by the biasing force of the latch spring 5, whereby the position of the latch 4 is determined, and the latch portions 4b and 4c are engaged with the latch engaging portions 1a and 1b. The quantity is secured.

Next, a lock mechanism for switching between a lock state in which the latch holding portions 1a, 1b of the opening/closing cover 1 by the latch portions 4b, 4c cannot be released and the opening/closing cover 1 is locked in a closed state and an unlocked state. This will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 and 14.

14 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of FIG. 12, and FIG. 14(A) shows a state before the opening/closing cover 1 is opened in the locked state of the lock mechanism that locks the opening/closing cover 1 in a closed state. 14B shows the state when the open/close cover 1 in the locked state is opened.

The lock mechanism includes a solenoid 11 that is controlled to a lock position and an unlock position, and a solenoid holding metal plate 12 that is attached to a latch holder 23 and holds the solenoid 11. Further, it includes a lock lever 7a that rotates around a shaft 12a provided on the solenoid holding metal plate 12 by the operation of the plunger 11a of the solenoid 11, and a lock spring 8a as a biasing member that biases the lock lever 7a. Further, it includes a lock member 7b which is movable by the rotation of the lock lever 7a and which is slidably attached to the latch holder 23 and which constitutes a lock portion and a regulating portion.

The lock mechanism is locked and unlocked by the force relationship between the urging force of the lock spring 8a and the attraction force of the solenoid 11, whereby the lock lever 7a rotates between the lock position and the lock release position and abuts on the lock lever 7a. This is performed by moving the lock member 7b in conjunction with each other. FIG. 13 shows a state where the lock mechanism has moved to the unlock position, and FIG. 14 shows a state where the lock mechanism has moved to the lock position.

When the lock mechanism is in the locked state, the force relationship of "biasing force of the lock spring 8a>suction force of the solenoid 11" is established, and the plunger 11a, the lock lever 7a, and the lock member 7b are located at the lock position in FIG. , Arrow T, arrow U.

As shown in FIG. 14B, when the user pushes down the cover button 32 in the direction of arrow M when the lock mechanism is in the locked state, the first link 20 that engages with the cover button 32 has the link spring 22 attached. It moves on the latch holder 23 while resisting the force. On the other hand, since the lock member 7b restricts the movement of the second link 21 between the second link 21 and the latch holder 23, the second link 21 cannot move. For this reason, the latch 4 that moves by engaging the second link 21 cannot move, and even if the cover button 32 is pressed, the latches 1a and 1b of the open/close cover 1 cannot be unlocked and the open/close cover 1 is not released. Is not released.

On the other hand, in the unlocked state, the relationship of "biasing force of the lock spring 8a<suction force of the solenoid 11" is established, and the plunger 11a, the lock lever 7a, and the lock member 7b are respectively placed in the unlocked position of FIG. Move in the directions of arrow J, arrow N, and arrow P. As shown in FIG. 13B, when the user pushes down the cover button 32 in the direction of the arrow M when the lock mechanism is in the unlocked state, the lock member 7b retracts from the restriction position that restricts the movement of the second link 21. The movement of the second link 21 is not restricted because the second link 21 is moved to the position. Therefore, the latches 4b and 4c of the latch 4 move to the positions where the latches 1a and 1b of the opening/closing cover 1 are released, and the opening/closing cover 1 can be released, and the opening/closing cover 1 is opened. It

Next, with reference to FIG. 13 and FIG. 14, an operation unit detection mechanism that detects that the user has operated the cover button 32 will be described.

The operation portion detection mechanism includes the cover button 32, the first link 20, the switch lever 10c rotatably held by the rotation shaft 41a, and the operation detection switch 9 attached to the latch holder 23. .. The operation detection switch 9 is a sensor that detects that the cover button 32 has been operated. When pressed to the ON position, the operation detection switch 9 detects that the user has operated the cover button 32.

When the user pushes down the cover button 32 in the direction of arrow M while the lock mechanism is in the unlocked state as shown in FIG. 13B, the first link 20 moves in the direction of arrow L and the first link 20 moves. And the switch lever 10c are engaged. As a result, the switch lever 10c rotates in the direction of arrow Q to press the operation detection switch 9, and it is detected that the user has operated the cover button 32.

As shown in FIG. 14B, the first link 20 is movable even when the user pushes down the cover button 32 in the direction of the arrow M when the lock mechanism is in the locked state. Therefore, the switch lever 10c engaging with the first link 20 rotates in the direction of the arrow Q to press the operation detection switch 9, and it is detected that the user operates the cover button 32.

That is, as shown in (B) of FIG. 13 and (B) of FIG. 14, the operation detection switch 9 can detect that the cover button 32 is operated regardless of the locked state and the unlocked state of the lock mechanism. Is.

In the above embodiment, the cover button 32 moves the first link 20, and the first link 20 rotates the switch lever 10c to press the operation detection switch 9. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the operation detection switch 9 may be pressed in conjunction with the cover button 32, and the cover button 32 may directly press the operation detection switch 9.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, a third embodiment will be described. Note that, in the following description, the same configurations as those of the first and second embodiments are incorporated by reference, and duplicated portions will be omitted. Further, components having the same functions as those of the first and second embodiments are designated by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

FIG. 17 is a sectional view taken along line AA of FIG. 12 according to the second exemplary embodiment. 17A shows a state before the opening/closing cover 1 is opened in the unlocked state where the lock mechanism for locking the opening/closing cover 1 in the closed state is released, and FIG. 17B shows the unlocked state. 4 shows a state when the opening/closing cover 1 in FIG.

In FIGS. 17A and 17B, the locking and unlocking mechanism of the latch locking portions 1a and 1b of the opening/closing cover 1 includes a first link 20, a second link 21, a latch 4, and a latch holder. 23, and a latch spring 5 provided between the latch 4 and the latch holder 23. Further, it includes a link spring 22 a provided between the first link 20 and the latch holder 23.

The first link 20, the second link 21, and the latch 4 are slidably attached to the latch holder 23. The position of the latch 4 is determined by the contact portion 4e hitting the abutting portion 23a of the latch holder 23 by the biasing force of the latch spring 5. The positions of the second link 21 and the first link 20 are determined by determining the position of the latch 4.

FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of essential parts of the first link 20, the second link 21, the link spring 22a, the latch 4, and the latch holder 23.

In FIG. 19, the latch 4 is slidably mounted by fitting the bosses 23j and 23k provided in the latch holder 23 with the holes 4g and 4h provided in the latch 4. The second link 21 has bosses 21b and 21c, which are respectively fitted in inverted L-shaped holes 23e and 23f provided at a pair of rising portions of the latch holder 23, and is slidably attached. Further, in the second link 21, the abutting portion 21a of the second link is pressed by the pressing portion 4f of the latch 4 by the biasing force of the latch spring 5, and the latch portions 4b and 4c lock the latch locking portions 1a and 1b. It is configured to move to the position of the state where it does.

The first link 20 is slidably mounted by fitting the bosses 23g and 23h provided on the latch holder 23 with the groove portions (not shown) provided on the first link.

The first link 20 is pressed and urged rightward in FIG. 19 by a link spring 22a provided between the first link 20 and the latch holder 23, and the boss 23g of the latch holder is brought into contact with the groove portion of the first link to be positioned. It Further, the first link 20 moves to the left in FIG. 19 against the urging force of the link spring 22a when the cover button 32 is pushed down, and has a pressing portion 20b that presses the abutting portion 21e of the second link. Have

Next, the operation when the latch holding portions 1a, 1b of the opening/closing cover 1 are released from the latch hold will be described.

In FIG. 12 and FIG. 17B, when the user pushes down the cover button 32 in the direction of the arrow M, the first link 20 that engages with the cover button 32, as shown in FIG. 17B, The second link 21 pressed by the first link 20 slides in the direction of arrow L. As a result, the latch 4 engaging with the second link 21 slides in the direction of the arrow L, and the second link 21 slides to a predetermined position, so that the latch portions 4b and 4c of the latch 4 move to the opening/closing cover 1. The latches 1a and 1b are unlocked to open the open/close cover 1.

Next, the operation when the latch locking portions 1a and 1b of the open/close cover are locked and held will be described.

The latch 4, the first link 20, and the second link 21 are moved in the opposite direction from the pressing of the cover button 32 by the biasing force of the latch spring 5 provided between the latch holder 23 to which the latch 4 is attached and the latch 4. To do. As a result, the latch portions 4b and 4c lock the latch locking portions 1a and 1b of the open/close cover 1, and the open/close cover 1 is held in the closed state. Further, the contact portion 4e of the latch 4 abuts on the abutting portion 23a of the latch holder 23 by the biasing force of the latch spring 5, whereby the position of the latch 4 is determined, and the latch portions 4b and 4c are engaged with the latch engaging portions 1a and 1b. The quantity is secured.

Next, a lock mechanism for switching between a locked state for locking the opening/closing cover 1 in the closed state by making the latches 4a, 4c of the opening/closing cover 1 unlatched by the latches, and a unlocked state. , And FIG. 18 will be described.

18 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of FIG. 12, and FIG. 18(A) shows the state before the opening/closing cover 1 is opened in the locked state of the lock mechanism that locks the opening/closing cover 1 in the closed state. 18B shows the state when the open/close cover 1 in the locked state is opened.

The lock mechanism includes a solenoid 11 that is controlled to a lock position and an unlock position, and a solenoid holding metal plate 12 that is attached to a latch holder 23 and holds the solenoid 11. Further, it includes a lock lever 7a that rotates around a shaft 12a provided on the solenoid holding metal plate 12 by the operation of the plunger 11a of the solenoid 11, and a lock spring 8a that biases the lock lever 7a. Further, it includes a link moving member 7c that moves by the rotation of the lock lever 7a and that is slidably attached to the latch holder 23 and that constitutes a lock portion and a regulating portion.

Switching between locking and unlocking of the lock mechanism is performed by link movement in which the lock lever 7a rotates between the lock position and the lock release position and abuts on the lock lever 7a due to the force relationship between the biasing force of the lock spring 8a and the attraction force of the solenoid 11. This is performed by moving the member 7c in conjunction with each other. FIG. 17 shows a state where the lock mechanism has moved to the unlock position, and FIG. 18 shows a state where the lock mechanism has moved to the lock position.

When the lock mechanism is in the locked state, there is a relationship of "urging force of lock spring 8>suction force of solenoid 11". As a result, the plunger 11a, the lock lever 7a, the link moving member 7c, and the second link 21 move to the lock position shown in FIG. 18A in the directions of arrow S, arrow T, arrow U, and arrow U, respectively.

When the user pushes down the cover button 32 in the direction of the arrow M when the lock mechanism is in the locked state as shown in FIG. 18B, the first link 20 that engages with the cover button 32 has the link spring 22a. It moves on the latch holder 23 while resisting the force. When the lock mechanism is in the locked state, the link moving member 7c moves the second link 21 in the direction of arrow U, so that the pressing portion 20b of the first link 20 cannot press the butting portion 21d of the second link. The first link 20 and the second link 21 cannot move together. Therefore, even if the cover button 32 is pushed, the latches 1a and 1b of the opening/closing cover 1 cannot be unlocked and the opening/closing cover 1 is not opened.

On the other hand, when the lock mechanism is in the unlocked state, there is a force relationship of “biasing force of lock spring 8<suction force of solenoid 11”. As a result, the plunger 11a, the lock lever 7a, the link moving member 7c, and the second link 21 move in the directions of arrow J, arrow N, arrow P, and arrow P to the unlocked position of FIG.

As shown in FIG. 17B, when the lock mechanism is in the unlocked state, the user pushes down the cover button 32 in the direction of arrow M. Then, since the link moving member 7c is moved to the retracted position where the second link 21 is not moved, the pressing portion 20b of the first link 20 presses the abutting portion 21d of the second link and the second link 21 and the second link 21. The link 21 moves together. As a result, the latch portions 4b and 4c of the latch 4 that move by engaging the second link 21 move to the positions where the latch locking portions 1a and 1b of the opening/closing cover 1 are released, and the opening/closing cover 1 is engaged. The stop can be released, and the open/close cover 1 is opened.

Next, with reference to FIGS. 17 and 18, an operation unit detection mechanism for detecting that the user has operated the cover button 32 will be described.

The operation portion detection mechanism includes the cover button 32, the first link 20, the switch lever 10c rotatably held by the rotation shaft 41a, and the operation detection switch 9 attached to the latch holder 23. .. The operation detection switch 9 is a sensor that detects that the cover button 32 has been operated. When pressed to the ON position, the operation detection switch 9 detects that the user has operated the cover button 32.

When the user pushes down the cover button 32 in the direction of arrow M while the lock mechanism is in the unlocked state as shown in FIG. 17B, the first link 20 moves in the direction of arrow L and the first link 20 And the switch lever 10c are engaged. As a result, the switch lever 10c rotates in the direction of arrow Q to press the operation detection switch 9, and it is detected that the user has operated the cover button 32.

As shown in FIG. 18B, when the lock mechanism is in the locked state and the user pushes down the cover button 32 in the direction of the arrow M, the first link 20 is movable and engages with the first link 20. .. Therefore, the switch lever 10c rotates in the direction of the arrow Q to press the operation detection switch 9, and it is detected that the user operates the cover button 32.

According to each of the above-described embodiments, the opening/closing cover that covers the developing cartridge mounting portion is locked when the developing cartridge mounted by the remaining toner amount detection is still usable. Therefore, the developer cartridge cannot be replaced, and it is possible to prevent the developer cartridge that is still usable from being replaced at an early stage, thereby causing an extra cost to the user.

Further, according to each of the above embodiments, when the developing cartridge mounted by the remaining toner amount detection is still usable and the opening/closing cover is locked in the closed state, the opening/closing cover is opened/closed by the user who tries to open the opening/closing cover. Indicates that the cover opening is locked. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the user from recognizing that the opening/closing of the opening/closing cover is locked and forcibly opening the opening/closing cover and damaging the opening/closing cover.

Further, according to each of the above embodiments, when the used developing cartridge is replaced, the opening/closing cover is closed again until the newly installed new developing cartridge is used due to the remaining toner amount detection. Lock automatically. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the mounted developer cartridge from being replaced.

Further, according to each of the above embodiments, since the lock of the open/close cover in the closed state is released by the plunger 11a that is a moving member that electrically moves, the open/close cover can be opened when a malfunction occurs in the electrical system. May not be possible. On the other hand, since the structure that allows the opening/closing cover to be opened manually is provided, it is possible to cope with such an emergency.

In the above embodiment, a solenoid is used as an electric drive unit that unlocks the closed state of the open/close cover, but the same applies to other electric drive devices such as DC motors and stepping motors. Is.

Further, in the above embodiments, the example in which the remaining toner amount is determined by detecting the actual remaining toner amount with the toner remaining amount detection sensor is shown. On the other hand, the remaining toner amount may be determined by predicting the toner usage amount from the integrated value of the density of the input print data or the integrated value of the latent image dot data.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, it is determined that the used developing cartridge in the state to be replaced has been replaced with a new usable developing cartridge by detecting the remaining toner amount after closing the opening/closing cover and opening the opening/closing cover again. It locks in the closed state. On the other hand, the fact that the used developing cartridge that should be replaced has been replaced with a new usable developing cartridge is detected by detecting the closing of the open/close cover and opening/closing without making a determination by the remaining toner amount. The cover may be locked in the closed state again. In that case, the remaining toner amount may be detected thereafter to determine that the developing cartridge has been replaced with a usable developing cartridge, and the locking of the open/close cover in the closed state may be controlled.

Further, in the above embodiment, the open/close cover is locked and held even when the lock mechanism is in the unlocked state. However, when the lock mechanism is unlocked, the lock and hold of the open/close cover is released. You may do it.

Further, in the above embodiments, the image forming apparatus using toner as the developer cartridge to be mounted is shown as an example, but the present invention is not limited to the image forming apparatus using other developer such as ink. The same applies.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the developing cartridge is described as an example of the consumable item for determining the state to be replaced, but the present invention is similarly applicable to a process cartridge, a drum cartridge, or a toner cartridge other than the developing cartridge. It is applicable. Furthermore, the present invention can be applied to other consumables.

2... Operation part 4... Latch 4a... Latch shaft 4b, 4c... Latch part 5... Latch spring 6... Connecting member 7, 7a... Lock lever 7b... Lock member 7c... Link moving member 8, 8a... Lock spring 9... Operation detection switch 10 ... switch lever 11... solenoid 11a... plunger 12... solenoid holding sheet metal 14... operation panel 20... first link 21... second link 22, 22a... link spring 23... latch holder 32... cover button 100... printer 101Y, 101M, 101C, 101K... Photosensitive drum 104Y, 104M, 104C, 104K... Developing cartridge

Claims (17)

An opening/closing cover that covers a mounting portion for mounting a consumable item for image formation,
A lock portion for locking the opening/closing cover in a closed state,
An electric drive unit that unlocks the lock unit,
A drive circuit for driving the electric drive section,
A determination unit that determines that the consumables that have been mounted are in a state to be replaced,
Upon receiving a signal from the determination unit that determines that the consumable item should be replaced, a signal for unlocking the lock unit is sent to the drive circuit to drive the electric drive unit. A control unit that unlocks the lock unit,
An image forming apparatus comprising: Further comprising a holding portion for holding the open/close cover in a closed state,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the holding of the holding unit can be released in a state where the lock of the lock unit is released. Further having an operation unit for releasing the holding of the holding unit,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the opening/closing cover is opened by releasing the holding of the holding unit by the operation unit while the lock of the lock unit is released. Further comprising a moving unit that releases the holding of the holding unit by moving in association with a release operation of the operation unit,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the lock unit locks the open/close cover in a closed state by restricting movement of the moving unit. Further comprising a moving unit that releases the holding of the holding unit by moving in association with a release operation of the operation unit,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the lock unit locks the open/close cover in a closed state by disconnecting the interlocking operation of the moving unit with respect to a release operation of the operation unit. 6. A release unit for manually releasing the holding of the holding unit in a state where the lock of the lock unit is not released by the electric drive unit, according to any one of claims 2 to 5. The image forming apparatus according to item 1. The consumable item is a developer cartridge that supplies a developer for image formation,
The electric drive unit unlocks the lock unit by setting a state in which the remaining amount of the developer in the mounted developer cartridge is determined to be a predetermined amount or less as a state in which the consumable item should be replaced. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the determination unit determines the remaining amount of the developer in the mounted developer cartridge. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a display unit that performs a display according to whether or not the lock of the lock unit is unlocked. 10. The display unit displays according to whether or not the lock of the lock unit is unlocked, regardless of whether or not the consumable item mounted is in a state to be replaced. The image forming apparatus according to item 1. Further comprising a closing detection unit for detecting that the opening/closing cover is closed,
11. The electric drive unit locks the lock unit in response to the closing detection unit detecting that the opening/closing cover is closed. The image forming apparatus according to item. Further comprising a closing detection unit for detecting that the opening/closing cover is closed,
The electric drive unit locks the lock unit in response to the closing detection unit detecting that the opening/closing cover is closed and that the mounted consumable item is not in a state to be replaced. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that. The electric drive unit locks the lock unit in response to unlocking of the lock unit and then in response to the fact that the attached consumable item is not in a state to be replaced. The image forming apparatus according to claim 10. An opening/closing cover that covers a mounting portion for mounting a consumable item for image formation,
A holding portion that holds the open/close cover in a closed state,
A moving portion that releases the holding of the holding portion by moving to a predetermined position,
An operation unit for moving the moving unit to the predetermined position,
A restricting unit that moves the moving unit to the predetermined position and moves to a restricting position that restricts the operation of the operation unit to lock the opening/closing cover in a closed state,
An electric drive unit that releases the lock by retracting the restriction unit from the restriction position,
An image forming apparatus comprising: An opening/closing cover that covers a mounting portion for mounting a consumable item for image formation,
A holding portion that holds the open/close cover in a closed state,
A first moving unit that releases the holding of the holding unit by moving to a predetermined position;
An elastic member,
A second moving unit that is connected to the first moving unit by the elastic member and moves the first moving unit to the predetermined position via the elastic member;
An operation unit that causes the second moving unit to move the second moving unit to move the first moving unit to the predetermined position;
The first moving unit is moved to a restricted position that restricts the movement to the predetermined position, and the operation unit moves the second moving unit to move the first moving unit to the predetermined position. A restriction part that restricts the movement of the first moving part to the predetermined position against the biasing force of the elastic member and locks the open/close cover in a closed state,
An electric drive unit that releases the lock by retracting the restriction unit from the restriction position,
An image forming apparatus comprising: The image forming apparatus according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the electric drive unit is a solenoid that moves the restriction unit by a plunger. Further comprising a biasing member for biasing the restriction portion to the restriction position,
17. The image forming apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the electric drive unit retracts the regulation unit from the regulation position against the biasing force of the biasing member. ..