JP4229015B2 - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, and more particularly to attachment / detachment of a paper feed cassette.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an image forming apparatus forms an image on an image carrier by an image forming unit, transfers the image onto a recording sheet, and then fixes the image on the recording sheet to obtain a recorded image.

  In order to efficiently transport the recording paper to the position of the image carrier, a plurality of paper feeding cassettes containing a plurality of recording papers of various sizes or a paper feeding unit capable of containing a large number of recording papers It is provided in the forming apparatus.

  When the recording paper stored in the paper feeding cassette is consumed and the recording paper is replenished, the paper feeding cassette is pulled out from the image forming apparatus, the recording paper is replenished, and a predetermined position for feeding the paper feeding cassette again is reached. By pushing back into the image forming apparatus, the recording paper supply operation is completed.

  In such an image forming apparatus, in a state where the paper feed cassette is mounted, the paper feed cassette moves naturally due to vibrations from outside such as during transportation or installation location, and does not deviate from a predetermined position for paper feeding. In order to obtain this locking force, a locking means is provided.

As such a locking unit, an image forming apparatus provided with a manual locking unit (for example, Patent Document 1) and an image forming apparatus for electrically locking / releasing (for example, Patent Document 2) are known. .
JP-A-10-139182 JP-A-3-13426

  Such a locking means is a large lock that prevents the paper feed cassette from escaping or shifting when a large vibration is applied, for example during transportation, or when it is installed in an installation location with vibration. Since force is required, it is necessary to set the locking force of the locking means to a relatively large locking force at the time of shipment, in other words, a large pulling force. On the other hand, when an image forming apparatus is installed in an office, etc. However, after installation, there is little need to apply large vibrations even if it moves within the office, and in such a case there is no need for a large locking force.

The drawer / push-back operation of the paper cassette from the image forming apparatus must be performed against the locking force of the locking means.
In the case of the image forming apparatus provided with the manual locking means described above, there is a problem that it is difficult to pull out the paper feed cassette due to individual differences if the locking force is set to be large for the reasons described above.

  Further, as a method for solving such a problem, the above-described method for electrically locking / releasing the locking means has been proposed. However, the number of parts is large, the mechanism is complicated, and the possibility of failure is higher than that of manual operation. However, there is a problem that the manufacturing cost increases at the same time as the weight increases.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In view of the above problems, an object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus having a sheet feeding cassette locking mechanism that has a low number of parts and a low probability of failure, is inexpensive, and has good operability. It is.

  The inventor considered that if the locking force, that is, the pulling force can be changed, the pulling force can be set according to the use environment, and the present invention has been achieved.

  The above object of the present invention can be achieved by the configurations described in the following claims.

The invention according to claim 1 is an image forming apparatus having a paper feed cassette for storing recording paper.
A locking member erected on the paper feed cassette, and the paper feed cassette can be locked at a predetermined position of the image forming apparatus when the paper feed cassette is mounted on the image forming apparatus. Paper feed cassette locking means that enables the paper feed cassette to be pulled out from the image forming apparatus when being pulled out from the image forming apparatus;
The sheet feeding cassette locking means stands on a locking member that locks the locking member at a predetermined position of the image forming apparatus and a mounting member that is fixed to the housing of the image forming apparatus that pivotally mounts the locking member. A support member provided, an elastic member having one end hooked to the lock member and biasing the lock member in a direction to lock the lock member to the lock member, and the other end of the elastic member connected to a plurality of the attachment members An image forming apparatus having a hooking means for hooking to a position.

  The invention according to claim 2 is characterized in that the hooking means is a plurality of first hooking members that are erected at a plurality of different positions of the attachment member and hook the other end of the elastic member. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus is an image forming apparatus.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, the hooking means is formed to detachably mount a second hooking member for hooking the other end of the elastic member at a plurality of different positions of the mounting member. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a first positioning hole that is formed, and at least one second hooking member that is erected in any of the first positioning holes. is there.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the hooking means includes a third hooking member that hooks the other end of the elastic member, and the elastic member at an arbitrary position that generates a different biasing force. A first moving member of the hooking member on which the third hooking member is erected, and the first moving member fixed so as not to be movable relative to the mounting member. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a first fixing member.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first, second, third, and fourth aspects, the elastic member is a coil spring.

  The invention according to claim 6 is the image according to claim 1, wherein the elastic member is a spring in the shape of a spring wound around the support member or an extension line of a central axis of the support member. Forming device.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the hooking means is configured to hook the other end of the mainspring-like spring, which is erected at a plurality of positions of the attachment member where the mainspring-like spring generates different urging forces. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the image forming apparatus is a plurality of fourth hooking members to be worn.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the fifth aspect, the hooking means hooks the other end of the spring-shaped spring at a plurality of positions of the mounting member where the spring-shaped spring generates different urging forces. A second positioning hole that is drilled to detachably attach the hooking member of the first and the fifth hooking member that stands up in an arbitrary second positioning hole. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6.

  According to a ninth aspect of the invention, the hooking means is located at a position where the sixth hooking member for hooking the other end of the spring-like spring and the spring-like spring generate different biasing forces. A second moving member of the hooking member on which the sixth hooking member is erected, wherein the sixth hooking member is movable, and the second moving member is immovable relative to the mounting member The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising a second fixing member to be fixed.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, information relating to the magnitude of the biasing force is printed at a plurality of positions of the attachment member. The first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, The image forming apparatus according to any one of 8 and 9.

  According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the attachment portion of the paper feed cassette locking means of the frame of the image forming apparatus has an opening for changing the force applied by the elastic member. The image forming apparatus according to any one of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10.

According to the present invention, the following effects can be obtained:
According to the first aspect of the present invention, since there are a plurality of hooking positions of the elastic member that urges the locking member that locks the locking member of the paper feeding cassette, the pulling-out force of the paper feeding cassette can be changed and the operability is improved. Can be improved.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, since a plurality of hooking members of the elastic member that urges the lock member are provided, the pulling-out force of the sheet feeding cassette can be easily changed and the operability can be improved.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, since there are a plurality of holes for erecting the hooking member of the elastic member for urging the lock member and the hooking member can be mounted in any hole, the drawer of the paper feed cassette can be easily pulled out. The force can be changed and the operability can be improved.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, since the hooking member of the elastic member that biases the lock member can be moved to an arbitrary position, the pulling-out force of the sheet feeding cassette can be easily changed and the operability can be improved. It becomes possible.

  According to the invention of claim 5, since the elastic member is a coil spring, the image forming apparatus can be configured at low cost.

  According to the invention of claim 6, since the elastic member is a spring spring, the image forming apparatus can be configured at low cost.

  According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, since there are a plurality of spring spring hooking members for biasing the locking member for locking the sheet feeding cassette locking member, the drawing force of the sheet feeding cassette can be changed, and the operability is improved. It becomes possible to improve.

  According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, since there are a plurality of holes for erecting the spring spring hooking member for urging the lock member and the hooking member can be mounted in an arbitrary hole, the pulling force of the paper feeding cassette can be easily set. Can be changed, and operability can be improved.

  According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, since the spring member hooking member for urging the lock member can be moved to an arbitrary position, it is possible to easily change the pulling-out force of the paper feed cassette and improve operability. It becomes.

  According to the invention which concerns on Claim 10, since the information according to the drawing-out force is printed on an attachment member, the installation position of a hanging member becomes clear and it becomes possible to improve operativity.

  According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, since the opening of the image forming apparatus is provided in the vicinity of the sheet feeding cassette locking means, it is possible to easily change the drawing force.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below, but the description in this section does not limit the technical scope of the claims or the meaning of terms.

  First, an outline of the image forming apparatus of the present invention will be described.

  FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an image forming apparatus showing an embodiment of the present invention.

  Reference numeral 1 denotes an image forming apparatus in which a document G placed on a document feeder 21 of the automatic document feeder 2 is fed one by one by the operation of a feed roller 22 by an activation operation from the operation unit 10, 24, the image surface is read by the image reading means 3, and then branched from the drum surface and discharged onto the paper discharge tray 25.

  In the image reading means 3, the light source 311 for illuminating the original G and the first mirror unit 31 having a mirror illuminate the original image, reflect the original image, and further by the second mirror unit 32 having a mirror. The reflected light from the original G is guided to the line-shaped image sensor 34 through the imaging lens 33 to form an image.

  The image reading means 3 can also read the image information of the document G placed on the platen glass 35. In this case, the first mirror unit and the second mirror unit described above move in the direction of the arrow. Image information of the original G placed on the platen glass 35 is read.

  Image information of the original G read by the image reading means 3 is subjected to image processing by the image processing means 73 and stored as digital image data in a storage means 72 comprising a battery-backed RAM.

  When the image forming means 4 starts to operate, the digital image data is read from the storage means 72 and inputted to the image writing means 43, and a laser beam projected according to the digital image data from a laser emitter (not shown) is a polygon mirror. An electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image data of the document is formed on the photosensitive drum 41 which is scanned in the main scanning direction by the rotation operation (without a symbol) and is given a potential by the charger 42.

  The electrostatic latent image is reversely developed by the developing means 44 to be a toner image.

  The recording paper P fed by the manual paper feeding means 26 or the paper feeding cassettes 51, 52, 53 of the paper feeding means 5 is transported by the transport rollers 61, 62 and is photosensitive by the timing roller 63 in synchronization with the toner image. It is fed to the transfer area A of the body drum 41.

  The toner image is transferred to the recording paper P by applying a voltage of opposite polarity by the transfer unit 45.

  The recording paper P after the transfer process is neutralized by the action of the static eliminator 47, separated from the photosensitive drum 41 by the separation claw 50, conveyed to the fixing unit 48, and pressure-bonded / heated between the heating roller 484 and the pressure roller 485. The toner is fixed by the action and is discharged to the discharge tray 57.

  Further, after the recording sheet P is separated from the photosensitive drum 41, the residual toner is removed by the cleaning means 49, and the preparation for the next image formation is completed.

  In this way, the recording paper P is fed from any of the paper feeding cassettes 51 to 53 according to image formation, and the recording paper in the paper feeding cassette is used up. When the recording paper runs out, it is detected by a sensor (not shown) and an alarm is given to the operator by the control means 71 and the apparatus is stopped.

  Based on the alarm, the operator pulls out the paper feed cassette that has run out of the recording paper P, replenishes the recording paper P, pushes the paper feeding cassette after replenishment, and mounts it at a predetermined position.

  The paper feed cassettes 51, 52, and 53 can be pulled out and pushed in by a slide guide 54 that is a guide means for the paper feed cassette provided between the image forming apparatus 1 and both side surfaces of each paper feed cassette in the figure.

  The opening 55 is an illustration of the image forming apparatus provided to make it easier for an operator to put a hand into the image forming apparatus in order to change the locking force for locking the paper feed cassette to the image forming apparatus described later. This is an adjustment hole (opening) provided in the housing on the back side.

  FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram of the sheet feeding cassette and the sheet feeding cassette locking means, and shows a state in which the sheet feeding cassette is mounted at a predetermined position (a position where sheet feeding is normally performed) of the image forming apparatus. .

  2A is a top view of the sheet feeding cassette as viewed from above, and FIG. 2B is a front view of the image forming apparatus as viewed from the front.

  Paper feed cassettes 51 to 53 for storing the recording paper P (hereinafter referred to as paper feed cassettes 51 as representative of the paper feed cassettes 51 to 53) are provided between the image forming apparatus 1 and both side surfaces of the paper feed cassettes in the figure. The paper feed cassette 51 can be moved lightly and smoothly in the direction of the arrow by the slide guide 54.

  Further, a locking member 81 is integrally formed on the lower surface (rear side in the drawing) on the mounting direction side (upper side in the drawing) of the paper feeding cassette 51 so as to protrude from the lower surface 511 of the paper feeding cassette toward the outer side of the paper feeding cassette 51. It is installed upright.

  The image forming apparatus 1 can lock the paper feeding cassette 51 at a predetermined position of the image forming apparatus 1 when the paper feeding cassette 51 is attached to the image forming apparatus 1. A paper feed cassette locking means 82 that enables the paper feed cassette 51 to be pulled out from the image forming apparatus 1 when being pulled out is provided.

The sheet feeding cassette locking means 82 is a support member erected on a locking member 84 that locks the locking member 81 and a mounting member 83 that is fixed to the housing 11 of the image forming apparatus 1 that pivotally mounts the locking member 84. 85, and a locking portion 88 that locks the locking member 81 at a predetermined position of the image forming apparatus 1.
One end is hooked to the lock member 84, and the elastic member 86 that urges the lock member 84 in a direction to lock the lock member 84 to the locking member 81 and the other end of the elastic member 86 are hooked to a plurality of positions of the mounting member 83. And a biasing portion 89 that biases the lock member 84 toward the locking member 81.

  Then, the latching member 81 is latched by the biasing force of the lock member 84 during the mounting, thereby latching the paper feed cassette 51 at a predetermined position of the image forming apparatus 1, and the biasing member 84 is biased during the pulling out. In contrast, the sheet feeding cassette 51 can be pulled out from the image forming apparatus 1.

  With the above configuration, in FIG. 2A, when the paper feeding cassette 51 is pulled out from the mounting position of the image forming apparatus 1 in the drawing downward direction, the locking member 81 is lowered in the drawing downward direction. In contrast, the pulling force generates a leftward pressing force on the lock member 84, which causes the lock member 84 to rotate clockwise, and the locking member 81 passes over the convex portion of the locking member 84 and locks. The state is released, and the paper feed cassette 51 can be pulled out from the image forming apparatus 1 downward in the drawing.

  Further, when the paper cassette is mounted, the locking member 81 is moved upward in the figure by the operator's pushing, so that a leftward pushing force is generated on the locking member 84 against the urging force of the elastic member 86, and this pushing force is generated. Due to the force, the lock member 84 rotates clockwise, and the locking member 81 gets over the convex portion of the lock member 84 to be locked, so that the paper feed cassette 51 can be attached to the image forming apparatus 1.

  FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the state in which the paper feed cassette is mounted on the paper feed cassette mounting means shown in FIG. 2 as viewed from below in the image forming apparatus.

  Note that the X (left and right), Y (up and down), and Z (front and back) directions shown in the drawing indicate directions as viewed from the image forming apparatus operation surface (attachment / detachment surface of the sheet cassette), and + X is viewed from the attachment / detachment surface of the sheet cassette. Right side, + Y indicates the upper side, and + Z indicates the rear side (mounting direction).

  Hereinafter, the sheet cassette and the sheet cassette locking means will be described in more detail.

  On the lower surface in the + Z direction of the paper feed cassette 51, a cylindrical locking member 81 is preferably integrally formed so as to stand upright on the paper feed cassette 51.

  The locking member 81 contacts the positioning member 831 of the locking member 81 standing on the mounting member 83 when the paper feed cassette is mounted at a predetermined position, and the locking member 84 locks the locking member 81. It is formed at a position locked by the locking surface 842.

  Here, the positioning member 831 also functions as a clockwise stop for the lock member 84.

  The attachment member 83 of the sheet cassette mounting means 82 is fixed substantially horizontally to the casing 11 of the image forming apparatus with screws or the like (not shown).

  The attachment member 83 may be a part of the casing 11 cut out and bent at a right angle toward the inside of the image forming apparatus. In this case, it is preferable that the cut-out opening can be used as the adjustment opening 55 of the paper cassette mounting means 82 provided at the mounting position of the paper cassette mounting means 82.

  The mounting member 83 is provided with the positioning member 831, the support member 85 that pivotally mounts the lock member 84, and a plurality of hooking members 843, 844, and 845.

  The lock member 84 is manufactured by molding POM (polyacetal) having good slidability, and is pivotally attached to the support member 85 so as to be rotatable in the arrow direction.

  A lock member insertion surface 841 having an angle θ1 with respect to the Z direction is formed from one side edge tip portion 841A of the lock member 84, and a lock member having an angle θ2 with respect to the Z direction from the inclined terminal portion 841B of the lock member insertion surface 841. The locking surface 842 of the locking member 81 is formed, and a recess inside the locking member formed by the locking surface 842 forms a locking portion 841 </ b> C of the locking member 81.

  When the paper feed cassette 51 is mounted (at the time of locking), the locking surface 842, the locking member 81, and the positioning member 831 come into contact with each other due to the stress of a coiled spring (hereinafter referred to as a coil spring) 86 that is an elastic member. The sheet feeding cassette 51 receives a force in the + Z direction (mounting direction) due to the + Z direction component generated at the contact portion of the locking surface 842 and is locked at the position where the locking member 81 contacts the positioning member 831. The

A spring hook 840 that hooks one end of the coil spring 86 is formed on the distal end portion 841D of the lock member 84,
The other end of the coil spring 86 is hooked on one of a plurality of hooking means (spring hooks) 843, 844, 845 (hereinafter referred to as spring hooks 843) which are first hooking members erected on the mounting member 83. Yes.

  The spring hooks 843, 844, and 845 are attached with screws or the like at positions where the coil spring 86 generates different urging forces (the coil springs have different lengths) on the attachment member 83.

  The spring hook 843 has a recess (not shown) for hooking the coil spring 86 at the tip, and the other end of the coil spring 86 is hooked.

  Further, the spring hook 843 may be formed by cutting out a part of the attachment member 83 and bending it at a right angle so as to have a recess for hanging the coil spring 86 at the tip.

  The spring hooks are preferably provided at 2 to 7, preferably 2 to 4 locations from the viewpoint of installation space and locking force (drawing force). If the amount is too small, the pull-out force setting interval is too long, and it is difficult to operate. If the amount is too large, the installation space becomes too large, and the image forming apparatus cannot be downsized.

  The spring hooks 843, 844, and 845 are attached with their positions shifted as shown so that the coil spring 86 is not hooked on any spring hook.

  Although not shown, the spring hooks 843, 844, 845 are increased in height in the order of distance from the spring hook 840, and the hooks 844, 843, ( 843), the coil spring may not be caught.

  In addition, the attachment member 83 has information about the magnitude of the force urging the attachment positions of the spring hooks 843, 844, and 845, that is, information relating to the magnitude of the pull-out force, for example, characters such as strong / medium / weak, A number like this is printed.

  As described above, by providing a plurality of spring hooks and changing the position where the spring is attached, the pulling force particularly when the paper cassette is attached / detached can be changed in accordance with the use environment of the image forming apparatus. Attach to the spring hook 845 that is the furthest away from the spring hook 840 during transportation or installation location to prevent the paper cassette from moving due to large vibrations during transportation, etc. It is possible to pull out the paper cassette with a weak pulling force (improves operability).

  Further, by providing the opening 55 in the image forming apparatus casing 11 in the vicinity of the attachment position of the paper feed cassette mounting means 82, it is possible to put a hand into the image forming apparatus, and the above-described spring hook attachment position. To make changes easier.

  FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing how the paper feed cassette is attached to and detached from the image forming apparatus.

  4A shows when the paper cassette is pulled out from the image forming apparatus, FIG. 4B shows that the paper cassette is being installed in the image forming apparatus, and FIG. 4C shows that the paper cassette has been installed in the image forming apparatus. It shows the state of the hour.

  A case where a paper feed cassette is mounted on the image forming apparatus will be described below.

  In FIG. 4A, the paper feed cassette 51 is moving forward in the mounting direction (arrow direction), and the locking member 81 and the paper feed cassette locking means 82 are separated from each other.

  In this state, the lock member 84 is urged by the coil spring 86 and abuts against the positioning member 831 to be regulated at the initial position.

  4B, the paper feed cassette 51 further advances in the mounting direction (arrow direction), the locking member 81 first comes into contact with the insertion surface 841, and the locking member 81 is centered on the support member 85. The insertion surface 841 is slid while rotating the lock member 84 counterclockwise, and the locking member 81 reaches the inclined end portion 841B as shown in the figure.

  The locking member 81 slides on the locking surface 842 of the locking member while further moving forward and rotating the locking member 84 clockwise by the biasing force of the coil spring 86.

  In FIG. 4C, the paper feed cassette 51 further advances in the mounting direction (arrow direction), and the locking member 81 reaches the locking portion 841C as shown in the figure. The locking member 81 and the positioning member 831 come into contact with each other, and the paper feed cassette 51 is locked by the lock member 84.

  The state of reaching the locking portion 841C has already been described with reference to FIG.

  Next, a case where the paper feeding cassette is extracted from the image forming apparatus will be described.

  In FIG. 4C, the paper feed cassette 51 is mounted at a predetermined position of the image forming apparatus. When the sheet feeding cassette 51 is pulled out from this state in the counter-arrow direction, the locking member 81 starts to retract in the pull-out direction (counter-arrow direction).

  In FIG. 4B, the paper feed cassette 51 is retracted in the pulling direction (counter arrow direction), and the supporting member 85 is moved while the locking member 81 slides on the locking surface 842 against the urging force of the coil spring 86. The lock member 84 is rotated counterclockwise around the center. As shown in the figure, the locking member 81 reaches the inclined end portion 841B. By further retreating, the locking member 81 slides on the insertion surface 841 while the lock member 84 is rotated clockwise by the biasing force of the coil spring 86.

  In FIG. 4A, the paper feed cassette 51 is further retracted in the pull-out direction, and the locking member 81 and the paper feed cassette locking means are separated from each other.

  In this state, the lock member 84 is urged by the coil spring 86 and abuts against the positioning member 831 to be regulated at the initial position.

  The structure of another sheet feeding cassette mounting means of the present invention will be described below.

  FIG. 5 is a view for explaining the configuration of another (second) paper feed cassette mounting means of the present invention.

The hooking means 823 of the paper feed cassette mounting means 822 can detachably attach a spring hook 846 that is a second hooking member that hooks the other end of the coil spring 86 that is an elastic member at a plurality of different positions of the mounting member 832. It has positioning holes 846A, 846B, 846C drilled to stand, and at least one spring hook 846 standing in any positioning hole of positioning holes 846A, 846B, 846C.
The spring hook 846 has a metal columnar shape, at least a part of the outer periphery of the column is engraved with knurls, a recess for hooking the coil spring 86 is provided on the circumference, and a positioning hole 846A, Screws (not shown) corresponding to 846B and 846C are engraved.

  In order to change the urging force of the coil spring 86, positioning holes 846A, 846B, 846C are drilled at a plurality of different positions of the mounting member 832. You may drill in a different position.

  A screw corresponding to the spring hook 846 is engraved in each positioning hole 846A, 846B, 846C, and the spring hook 846 can be erected in an arbitrary positioning hole.

  By changing the position where the spring hook 846 is erected with the above configuration, the hooking position of the other end of the coil spring 86 can be changed and the urging force can be changed.

  Since the configuration other than the attachment member 832 for attaching the hooking means 823 and the hooking means 823 is the same as that of the paper cassette mounting means 82 described above, description thereof is omitted.

  The configuration of another sheet feeding cassette mounting means 824 of the present invention will be described.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of another (third) paper feed cassette mounting means of the present invention.

The hooking means 825 of the paper feed cassette mounting means 824 includes a spring hook 847 that is a third hooking member for hooking the other end of the coil spring 86 and a spring hook at any position where the coil spring 86 generates different biasing forces. A hook moving plate 848 that is a moving member of the spring hook on which the spring hook 847 is erected, and a fixing member 849 that fixes the hook moving plate 848 to the mounting member 834 so as not to move.
The spring hook 847 has a metal columnar shape, and a concave portion for hooking the coil spring 86 is provided on the circumference, and is erected on the hook moving plate 848.

  The hook moving plate 848 has a long hole 850 parallel to the direction in which the urging force of the coil spring 86 is changed. In order to allow the spring hook 847 to move to any position along the long hole 850, Further, the hook moving plate 848 is pressed against the mounting member 834 by the fixing member 849 so that the movement can be prohibited.

  The fixing member 849 is configured by a thumbscrew or the like, and has a knob portion whose tip is cut into a knurled portion and a screw portion that is screwed into a screw drilled in the mounting member 834 at its lower end.

  With the above configuration, by changing the fixing position of the hook moving plate 848, the hooking position of the other end of the coil spring 86 can be changed, and the urging force can be changed to an arbitrary value steplessly.

  Since the configuration other than the attachment member 834 for attaching the hooking means 825 and the hooking means 825 is the same as that of the paper cassette mounting means 82 described above, the description thereof is omitted.

  FIG. 7 is a view for explaining the configuration of another (fourth) paper feed cassette mounting means using the spring-shaped elastic member of the present invention.

  FIG. 7A shows an example in which a plurality of spring hooks are provided, FIG. 7B shows an example in which a plurality of positioning holes and one spring hook are provided, and FIG. 7C shows a case in which a hook moving plate is provided. An example is shown.

In FIG. 7A, the hooking means 827 of the paper feed cassette mounting means 826 is a plurality of fourth hooks that hooks the other end of a spring-shaped spring (hereinafter referred to as “spring spring”) 860 that is an elastic member. It has spring hooks 863, 864, 865 which are members,
The mainspring spring 860 that urges the lock member 84 in the direction of the arrow is configured by the support member 85 or a mainspring spring 860 wound around the extension E of the central axis of the support member 85, and one end of the mainspring spring 860 stands on the lock member 84. The other end is hooked on one of a plurality of spring hooks 863, 864, and 865 erected on the attachment member 862.

  Here, the other end of the spring 860 is formed in a U-shape so that it can be easily attached to and detached from a spring hook having a metal column shape.

  The spring hooks 863, 864, and 865 are provided at a plurality of positions where the spring spring 860 generates different urging forces, and are disposed at a plurality of different positions on a concentric circle centered around the center of the support member 85, for example. .

  Moreover, you may arrange | position in the different position on the same diameter.

  Moreover, you may arrange | position on the extension line | wire of the tangent direction of the other end of a mainspring spring.

  With the above configuration, it is possible to change the urging force by changing the other end of the mainspring spring 860 to one of the spring hooks 863, 864, and 865.

  Since the configuration of the paper feed cassette mounting means 82 is the same as that of the paper cassette mounting means 82 described above except for the attachment member 862 for attaching the hooking means 827, the hooking means 827, the spring spring 860, and the spring hook 861, description thereof is omitted.

In FIG. 7B, the hooking means 829 of the paper cassette mounting means 828 includes a spring hook 866 that is a first hooking member that is fixedly hooked to the other end of the mainspring spring 860, and an attachment member 870. The spring hook 866 drilled in the hole has a plurality of holes 867, 868, 869 that are detachably installed,
The plurality of holes 867, 868, 869 are provided at a plurality of positions where the main spring 860 generates different urging forces, and are formed at, for example, a plurality of different positions on a concentric circle centering on the center of the support member 85. Yes.

  Moreover, you may drill in the different position on the same diameter.

  Moreover, you may perforate on the extension line | wire of the tangent direction of the other end of a spring.

  With the above configuration, the urging force can be changed by reattaching the spring hook 866 to any one of the positioning holes 867, 868, and 869.

  In addition, since it is the same as the structure demonstrated in Fig.7 (a) mentioned above except the attachment member 870 and the switching means 829 which attach the hooking means 829, description is abbreviate | omitted.

  In FIG. 7C, the hooking means 852 of the paper feed cassette mounting means 851 has different biasing forces between the spring hook 853 as the sixth hooking member for hooking the other end of the mainspring spring 860 and the spring spring 860. A hook moving plate 854, which is a second moving member in which the spring hook 853 is erected, can move the spring hook 853 to a position where it occurs, and a fixing member 856 that fixes the hook moving plate 854 to the mounting member 855 so as not to move. And have.

  The hook moving plate 854 has an arc-shaped elongated hole 857 in a direction in which the urging force of the mainspring spring 860 is changed, and the surface of the attachment member 855 is arranged so that the spring hook 853 can be moved to an arbitrary position according to the elongated hole 856. In addition, the hook moving plate 854 is pressed against the mounting member 855 by the fixing member 856 to prohibit the movement.

  The fixing member 856 is constituted by a thumbscrew or the like, and has a knob portion with a knurled tip and a screw portion screwed with a screw screwed to the attachment member 855 at the lower end.

  With the above configuration, by changing the fixing position of the hook moving plate 854, the hooking position of the other end of the mainspring spring 860 can be changed, and the urging force can be changed to an arbitrary value steplessly.

  In addition, since it is the same as that of the structure demonstrated in Fig.7 (a) except the attachment member 855 and the hooking means 852 which attach the hooking means 852, description is abbreviate | omitted.

In the above description, the locking force (drawing force) of the paper feed cassette 51 includes the stress of the elastic member (coil spring, spring) in FIG. 3, the distance between the other side edge tip 841D and the support member 85, and the support member 85. Is roughly determined by the design conditions such as the distance between the angled end portion 841B and the angle θ2,
The other end of the elastic member is set to a position where the locking force (drawing force) of the paper feed cassette 51 is 0.5 to 3 kg, preferably 1 kg to 2.5 kg.

  That is, the positions of the plurality of spring hooks that hook the other end of the elastic member are at positions where the locking force (drawing force) is 0.5 kg, 2 kg, and 3 kg, preferably 1 kg, 1.8 kg, and 2.5 kg. Set.

  If the value is larger than this value, the pulling force is excessive and the operability is deteriorated.

  Although the case where the sheet feeding cassette mounting means is attached to the lower surface of the mounting member has been illustrated and described above, it goes without saying that it may be attached to the upper surface.

1 is an explanatory diagram of an image forming apparatus illustrating an embodiment of the present invention. It is a conceptual diagram of a paper feed cassette and a paper feed cassette locking means. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a state in which a paper feed cassette is mounted on the paper feed cassette mounting unit illustrated in FIG. 2 as viewed from below in the image forming apparatus. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a state where a paper feed cassette is attached to and detached from the image forming apparatus. It is a figure explaining the structure of the other paper feed cassette mounting means of this invention. It is a figure explaining the structure of the other paper feed cassette mounting means of this invention. It is a figure explaining the structure of the other paper feeding cassette mounting means using the spring-shaped elastic member of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming apparatus 5 Paper feed means 51 Paper feed cassette 52 Paper feed cassette 53 Paper feed cassette 55 Opening part 81 Locking member 82 Paper feed cassette locking means 83 Mounting member 84 Lock member 85 Support member 86 Elastic member 87 Hanging means 840 Spring hook 843 Spring hook 844 Spring hook 845 Spring hook 846A Positioning hole 846B Positioning hole 846C Positioning hole 848 Hook moving plate 849 Fixed member

Claims (11)

In an image forming apparatus having a paper feed cassette for storing recording paper,
A locking member erected on the paper feed cassette, and the paper feed cassette can be locked at a predetermined position of the image forming apparatus when the paper feed cassette is mounted on the image forming apparatus. Paper feed cassette locking means that enables the paper feed cassette to be pulled out from the image forming apparatus when being pulled out from the image forming apparatus;
The sheet feeding cassette locking means stands on a locking member that locks the locking member at a predetermined position of the image forming apparatus and a mounting member that is fixed to the housing of the image forming apparatus that pivotally mounts the locking member. A support member provided, an elastic member having one end hooked to the lock member and biasing the lock member in a direction to lock the lock member to the lock member, and the other end of the elastic member connected to a plurality of the attachment members An image forming apparatus comprising: a hooking means for hooking at a position. The said hooking means is a plurality of first hooking members that are erected at a plurality of different positions of the mounting member and hook the other end of the elastic member. Image forming apparatus. The hooking means includes a first positioning hole drilled to detachably mount a second hooking member that hooks the other end of the elastic member at a plurality of different positions of the mounting member. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: at least one second hooking member provided upright in any of the first positioning holes. The hooking means can move the third hooking member to any position where the third hooking member hooking the other end of the elastic member and the elastic member generate different urging forces. A first moving member of the hooking member on which the third hooking member is erected, and a first fixing member for fixing the first moving member to the mounting member so as not to move, The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the elastic member is a coiled spring. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the elastic member is a mainspring-like spring wound around the support member or an extension line of a central axis of the support member. The hooking means hooks the other end of the spring-shaped spring, which is erected at a plurality of positions of the mounting member where the spring-shaped spring generates different urging forces. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the image forming apparatus is a hooking member. The hooking means can attach and detach a fifth hooking member for hooking the other end of the spring-shaped spring at a plurality of positions of the mounting member where the spring-shaped spring generates different urging forces. 7. The apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising: a second positioning hole drilled for standing, and one of the fifth hooking members standing in the arbitrary second positioning hole. Image forming apparatus. The hooking means moves the sixth hooking member to a position where the sixth hooking member hooking the other end of the spring-like spring and the spring-like spring generates different urging forces. A second moving member of the hooking member on which the sixth hooking member is erected; and a second fixing member for fixing the second moving member to the mounting member so as not to move. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising: The information on the magnitude of the urging force is printed at a plurality of positions of the attachment member, according to any one of claims 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. The image forming apparatus described in 1. The opening portion for changing the urging force of the elastic member is provided in the attachment portion of the sheet feeding cassette locking means of the frame of the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to any one of 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10.

Images