JP5082277B2 - Opening / closing mechanism of opening / closing part and image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an opening / closing mechanism for an opening / closing part and an image forming apparatus including the opening / closing mechanism.

  As an image forming apparatus provided with an opening / closing mechanism for an opening / closing section, an image forming apparatus is known in which an opening / closing cover serving as an opening / closing section is provided rotatably on the apparatus body so that the inside of the apparatus body can be opened. In such an image forming apparatus, a configuration is known in which an opening / closing cover is urged in a closing direction by a tension spring in the vicinity of an opening / closing cover supporting portion (hinge portion) provided at a lower portion of the apparatus body (Patent Document). 1).

  According to this configuration, since the opening / closing cover is biased in the closing direction, the opening / closing operation of the opening / closing cover becomes gentle. As a result, there are effects such as easy opening operation of the opening / closing cover and buffering an impact generated between the opening / closing cover and the apparatus main body.

Further, according to the above configuration, it is possible to eliminate components that obstruct access to the inside of the apparatus, such as a strap that connects the apparatus main body and the opening / closing cover, and jamming processing and consumables when the opening / closing cover is opened. Exchange operability is improved.
JP 2003-241466 A

  However, in the image forming apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1, since the tension spring is disposed in the vicinity of the support portion of the opening / closing cover, when the weight of the opening / closing cover increases, the force of the tension spring must be considerably increased. Excessive stress is applied to the support body such as the main body frame that supports the opening / closing cover.

  In view of the above facts, an object of the present invention is to improve the operability of an opening / closing part without applying stress to a support that supports the opening / closing part.

The opening / closing mechanism of the opening / closing part according to the first aspect is supported by a first opening / closing part supported to be opened / closed at a first position of the support, and a second position of the support different from the first position, A second opening / closing portion that is integrally opened / closed with one opening / closing portion, and is interposed between the first opening / closing portion and the second opening / closing portion, and is displaced along with an opening / closing operation of the first opening / closing portion, And an elastic member that imparts resistance to the opening operation of the first opening / closing part.

  According to this structure, the 1st opening / closing part supported by the 1st position of the support body is opened and closed. When the first opening / closing part is opened / closed, the second opening / closing part supported at the second position of the support different from the first position is opened / closed integrally with the first opening / closing part.

Here, in the configuration of the first aspect , the elastic member interposed between the first opening / closing portion and the second opening / closing portion is displaced along with the opening / closing operation of the first opening / closing portion, and Provides resistance to opening action.

  For this reason, the opening / closing operation | movement of a 1st opening / closing part becomes loose. Thereby, there are effects such as easy opening operation of the first opening / closing part and buffering an impact generated between the first opening / closing part and the support.

  In addition, since the elastic member is interposed between the first opening / closing part and the second opening / closing part, the elastic force of the elastic member does not act on the support and stress is not applied to the support.

Therefore, according to the structure of the 1st aspect , the operativity of a 1st opening / closing part can be improved, without applying a stress to the support body which supports a 1st opening / closing part.

The opening / closing mechanism of the opening / closing part according to the second aspect is the structure of the first aspect , wherein the second opening / closing part is rotatably supported at one end by the support body and the other end by the first opening / closing part. The elastic member is slid along the first opening / closing part along with the opening / closing operation of the first opening / closing part, and the elastic member is interposed between the first opening / closing part and the other end of the second opening / closing part. It is interposed and is displaced as the other end of the second opening / closing part slides.

  According to this configuration, the second opening / closing part is supported at the one end part thereof so as to be pivotable, the other end part is attached to the first opening / closing part, and the first opening / closing part is opened and closed along with the opening / closing operation of the first opening / closing part. Slide along the section.

Here, in the configuration of the second mode , the elastic member is interposed between the first opening / closing part and the other end of the second opening / closing part, and is displaced as the other end of the second opening / closing part slides. To do.

  For this reason, it becomes possible to arrange the elastic member along the sliding direction of the other end of the second opening / closing part, that is, along the first opening / closing part, and the first opening / closing part can be downsized (thinned) and Space saving can be achieved.

The opening / closing mechanism of the opening / closing part according to the third aspect is the structure of the first aspect , wherein the second opening / closing part is supported by the support via a connecting means for connecting the support and the second opening / closing part. And is attached to the first opening / closing part and slides along the first opening / closing part in accordance with the opening / closing operation of the first opening / closing part, and the elastic member is slid to the second opening / closing part. It is characterized by displacement.

  According to this configuration, the second opening / closing part is supported by the support body and connected to the first opening / closing part via the connecting means for connecting the support body and the second opening / closing part. Along with the opening / closing operation, it slides along the first opening / closing part.

Here, in the configuration of the third aspect , the elastic member is displaced as the second opening / closing portion slides.

  For this reason, the elastic member can be disposed along the sliding direction of the second opening / closing part, that is, along the first opening / closing part, and the first opening / closing part can be downsized (thinned) and space-saving. I can plan.

  Moreover, since it can arrange | position along a 1st opening / closing part, an elastic member can be mounted in the back surface of a 2nd opening / closing part, for example, and an assembly property is good.

The opening / closing mechanism of the opening / closing part according to a fourth aspect is the structure of the third aspect , wherein the connecting means is connected to the guide means provided in the first opening / closing part and one end portion thereof rotatably to the support. The other end portion is connected to the second opening / closing portion and includes a link member that moves along the guide means.

The opening / closing mechanism of the opening / closing part according to the fifth aspect is the configuration of the third or fourth aspect , wherein the first opening / closing part is provided with an extension member attached to the second opening / closing part, and the second opening / closing part is provided. The part slides relative to the extension member in accordance with the opening / closing operation of the first opening / closing part, and the elastic member is interposed between the extension member and the second opening / closing part, The second opening / closing part is displaced in accordance with the sliding movement.

  According to this configuration, the extension member attached to the second opening / closing part is provided in the first opening / closing part, and the second opening / closing part is relative to the extension member in accordance with the opening / closing operation of the first opening / closing part. Move to slide.

Here, in the configuration of the fifth aspect , the elastic member is interposed between the extension member and the second opening / closing portion, and is displaced as the second opening / closing portion slides.

  Thus, since the elastic member is interposed between the extension member and the second opening / closing part, after the elastic member is interposed between the extension member and the second opening / closing part, the extension member and the second opening / closing part are inserted. Since a part can be attached to a 1st opening-and-closing part and a support body, assemblability improves.

The opening / closing mechanism of the opening / closing part according to the sixth aspect is the structure of any one of the third to fifth aspects , wherein the extension member is slidably attached to the first opening / closing part and the opening / closing part of the first opening / closing part is opened. In this case, the extension member is provided with a locking means for locking after the sliding movement of the extension member integrally with the second opening / closing portion, and the second opening / closing portion is configured such that after the extension member is locked to the locking means, The elastic member is displaced by sliding relative to the extension member.

  According to this configuration, the extension member is slidably attached to the first opening / closing portion by the locking means, and the locking means integrates the extension member with the second opening / closing portion when the first opening / closing portion is opened. Slide to move to lock. The second opening / closing part slides relative to the extension member after the extension member is locked by the locking means, and displaces the elastic member.

  For this reason, at the time of the opening operation of the first opening / closing section, initially, no resistance is given to the opening operation of the first opening / closing section, so the operability of the opening operation of the first opening / closing section is good. Thereafter, the second opening / closing part slides relative to the extension member, the elastic member is displaced, and the opening / closing operation of the first opening / closing part becomes gentle.

The opening / closing mechanism of the opening / closing part according to a seventh aspect is the structure of any one of the third to sixth aspects , wherein the first opening / closing part is an exterior cover that covers the support, and the second opening / closing part is paper , And the extension member is an extension tray extending from the paper tray.

The opening / closing mechanism of the opening / closing part according to an eighth aspect is characterized in that, in the configuration of any one of the first to seventh aspects , the elastic member is covered with the second opening / closing part and the first opening / closing part. To do.

  According to this configuration, since the elastic member is covered with the second opening / closing part and the first opening / closing part, the elastic member is not exposed to the outside and the appearance is improved.

An opening / closing mechanism for an opening / closing part according to a ninth aspect is the structure of any one of the first to eighth aspects , wherein the elastic member is arranged to equally apply resistance in a sliding direction of the second opening / closing part. It is characterized by that.

  According to this configuration, since the elastic member is arranged so as to equally apply resistance in the sliding direction of the second opening / closing portion, the first opening / closing portion tilts when the first opening / closing portion is opened / closed. There is no.

An image forming apparatus according to a tenth aspect includes the opening / closing mechanism for the opening / closing part according to any one of the first to ninth aspects .

  Since this invention set it as the said structure, the operativity of an opening / closing part can be improved, without applying stress to the support body which supports an opening / closing part.

  Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment according to an opening / closing mechanism of an opening / closing part of the present invention and an image forming apparatus including the opening / closing mechanism will be described with reference to the drawings.

[First Embodiment]
First, the overall configuration of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment includes an apparatus main body 12. A sheet (recording medium) P is stacked and stored in a lower part of the apparatus main body 12 in a bundle. A tray 14 is arranged.

  A pick-up roll 16 is disposed immediately above the front end side (right end side in FIG. 1) of the paper feed tray 14 to send out the paper P from the paper feed tray 14 in pressure contact with the front end side of the upper surface of the paper P.

  Further, the apparatus main body 12 is formed with a first conveyance path 22 that extends from the front end of the paper feed tray 14 and is gently curved and extends substantially vertically upward on the front side of the apparatus (right side in FIG. 1). Has been.

  Along the first transport path 22, a plurality of (for example, two) transport roller pairs 24 that sandwich and transport the paper P in order from the upstream side in the paper transport direction, and electrostatically attract the paper P on which an image is to be formed. An endless transport belt 26 is disposed for transporting.

  The conveyor belt 26 is stretched between a stretching roller 27 disposed above and a stretching roller 29 disposed below, and one of the stretching roller 27 and the stretching roller 29 is in a predetermined direction (see FIG. 1, the conveyance belt 26 is rotated (circulated) in a predetermined direction (clockwise direction in FIG. 1) by being driven to rotate in the clockwise direction.

  On the upstream side of the conveyance belt 26 in the sheet conveyance direction, a charging roll 31 that charges the surface of the conveyance belt 26 and presses the sheet P electrostatically attracted to the conveyance belt 26 against the conveyance belt 26 is attached to the conveyance belt 26. Adjacent to each other.

  A plurality of process cartridges 28Y, 28M, 28C, and 28K corresponding to the respective colors of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black are arranged in the lateral direction facing the conveyance belt 26 with the first conveyance path 22 interposed therebetween. Along the one conveyance path 22, the apparatus main body 12 is arranged in a column in a substantially vertical direction.

  Each process cartridge 28Y, 28M, 28C, 28K is provided with a photosensitive drum 30 that rotates in a predetermined direction (counterclockwise in FIG. 1).

  Around the photosensitive drum 30, the charging roller 32 for charging the photosensitive drum 30 and the charged photosensitive drum 30 are exposed to the photosensitive drum 30 in order from the upstream side in the rotation direction of the photosensitive drum 30. An exposure device 34 for forming an electrostatic latent image thereon and a developing roller 36 for developing toner by attaching each color toner to the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 30 are provided.

  The charging roller 32 and the developing roller 36 are provided in each of the process cartridges 28Y, 28M, 28C, and 28K.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the process cartridges 28Y, 28M, 28C, and 28K are detachable in the horizontal direction. The process cartridges 28Y, 28M, 28C, and 28K are attached to both ends in the width direction when being attached and detached. A grip 58 for gripping is provided. In FIG. 1, the handle 58 is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the toner images formed on the photosensitive drum 30 are respectively transferred to the paper P at a predetermined transfer position in the lateral direction facing the photosensitive drum 30 on the inner peripheral side of the conveying belt 26 as shown in FIG. A transfer device 38 for transferring is provided.

  On the downstream side in the paper transport direction from the transport belt 26, a fixing device 40 that fixes the transferred toner image onto the paper P, a transport roll pair 42 that sandwiches and transports the paper P, and a discharge roll pair that discharges the paper P to the discharge tray 20. 44 are arranged in this order.

  Further, a second conveyance path 46 for inverting the paper P on which an image is formed on one side and returning it to the first conveyance path 22 is formed facing the first conveyance path 22 with the conveyance belt 26 interposed therebetween. Has been.

  A plurality (for example, three) of conveyance roller pairs 48 for nipping and conveying the paper P downward are arranged in the second conveyance path 46, and when an image is formed on both sides, the image is formed on one side. The discharged paper P is switched back by the discharge roll pair 44 and guided to the second conveyance path 46, conveyed downward by the plurality of conveyance roll pairs 48, and sent back to the first conveyance path 22.

  Further, a third conveyance path 47 connected to the second conveyance path 46 is formed. The third transport path 47 is provided with a pair of paper feed rolls 49, and the paper feed rolls 49 feed paper P stacked on a manual feed tray 74 described later to the second transport path 46.

  Next, an image forming operation for forming an image in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described.

  In the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment, when an image is formed on the paper P, the paper P taken out from the paper feed tray 14 is first transported upward along the transport path 22 by the plurality of transport roll pairs 24 and transported. It is fed to the belt 26. The paper P sent to the transport belt 26 is pressed against the transport belt 26 by the charging roll 31 and is electrostatically attracted to the transport belt 26 to be charged and transported upward. Each color of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black Are sequentially fed to a predetermined transfer position corresponding to the above.

  On the paper P sent to the predetermined transfer position, the toner images of the respective colors formed on the photosensitive drum 30 are transferred by the transfer device 38 to form a full color image. Further, the toner image conveyed and transferred to the fixing device 40 is fixed by the fixing device 40.

  Paper P stacked on a manual feed tray 74 described later is sent to the transport belt 26 by the paper feed roll 49 via the second transport path 46, and a full-color image is formed in the same manner as described above.

  When an image is formed only on one side of the paper P, the paper P is discharged to the discharge tray 20 by the discharge roll pair 44 after the toner image is fixed.

  When images are formed on both sides of the sheet P, after the image is formed on one side, the sheet P is switched back by the discharge roll pair 44, reversed, and sent to the second conveyance path 46. Further, the image is again sent from the second conveyance path 46 to the first conveyance path 22, and an image is formed on the opposite surface where no image is recorded in the same manner as described above, and an image is formed on both sides of the paper P. As described above, a series of image forming operations are performed.

  Next, an opening / closing unit and an opening / closing mechanism thereof according to the image forming apparatus of this embodiment will be described.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, a main body opening / closing section that is openable and closable with respect to the apparatus main body 12 by a hinge portion (supporting portion) 62 is provided below the apparatus main body 12 of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment. (Support) 50 is supported.

  The opening / closing mechanism 11 of the opening / closing part according to the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment is supported by the main body opening / closing part 50 by a hinge part 61 and is also openable / closable with respect to the main body opening / closing part 50 (first opening / closing mechanism). Part) 51. The exterior cover 51 may be supported on the apparatus main body 12 side.

  The main body opening / closing part 50 is rotated integrally with the exterior cover 51 from the apparatus main body 12 side to the outer side of the apparatus (in the direction A in FIG. 2) and tilts to the open position, thereby opening the inside of the apparatus main body 12. . Further, the main body opening / closing part 50 is rotated integrally with the exterior cover 51 from the state in which the inside of the apparatus is opened to the apparatus main body 12 side (in the direction B in FIG. 2), and vertically stands to the closed position, Close the inside of the device.

  Since the inside of the apparatus main body 12 is opened, as shown in FIG. 2, components such as process cartridges 28Y, 28M, 28C, and 28K can be attached and detached and the components can be replaced. Further, the first conveyance path 22 is opened, and a jam (paper jam) generated in the first conveyance path 22 can be eliminated.

  In addition, a conveyance belt unit 52 including a conveyance belt 26 is rotatably supported by the support opening 53 on the main body opening / closing unit 50. The transport belt unit 52 is provided with one of the transport roll pair 48, the transfer device 38 and the charging roll 31. One of the conveying roll pair 48 and the stretching rollers 27 and 29 for stretching the conveying belt 26 are pivotally supported by a pair of side plates 67 of the conveying belt unit 52 provided at both ends in the axial direction.

  The transport belt unit 52 opens the second transport path 46 by rotating toward the apparatus main body 12 around the rotation axis of the support portion 53. Thereby, a jam (paper jam) generated in the second transport path 46 can be eliminated.

  The exterior cover 51 is supported by the hinge portion 61 on the rotation axis (first position) of the main body opening / closing portion 50, and overlaps the main body opening / closing portion 50 to cover the outer surface of the main body opening / closing portion 50, and the main body It can be rotated between an open position separated from the opening / closing part 50.

  Further, the exterior cover 51 can be switched between a locked state where the exterior cover 51 is engaged with the main body opening / closing unit 50 and an unlocked state where the exterior cover 51 is not engaged with the main body opening / closing unit 50.

  Thus, the exterior cover 51 is unlocked and the main body opening / closing section 50 is closed by the apparatus main body 12 from the apparatus main body 12 (main body opening / closing section 50) side to the outside of the apparatus (FIGS. 3 and 4). In the direction C) and tilted to the open position to open the outer surface of the main body opening / closing part 50 (see FIGS. 3 and 4). Further, in a state where the exterior cover 51 opens the main body opening / closing part 50, the paper feed port 73 provided in the apparatus main body 12 is opened, and paper can be fed from the manual feed tray 74 described later to the apparatus main body 12.

  Further, the exterior cover 51 rotates from the state in which the main body opening / closing part 50 is opened to the apparatus main body 12 (main body opening / closing part 50) side (in the direction D in FIGS. 3 and 4), and stands vertically to the closed position. As a result, the outer surface of the main body opening / closing part 50 is closed (see FIG. 5).

  As shown in FIGS. 4 and 6, a manual feed tray 74 (second opening / closing portion) on which sheets P can be stacked is provided on the inner surface 51 </ b> A inside the outer cover 51 facing the main body opening / closing portion 50. The extension tray 76 attached to the manual feed tray 74 is provided on the upper side (the side far from the rotation axis S of the outer cover 51).

  The extension tray 76 has a hollow inside, and the manual feed tray 74 is accommodated therein. The extension tray 76 extends from the manual feed tray 74 to expand the stacking area on which the sheets P are stacked.

  The manual feed tray 74 is provided with a guide member 75 for guiding the paper P stacked on the manual feed tray 74 from both sides. The guide member 75 is configured to slide in the direction of arrow E corresponding to the paper width of the paper P to be stacked.

  In addition, a pair of side plates 60 and 62 are provided on the inner surface 51A of the outer cover 51 at both ends in the width direction (the direction along the axial direction of the rotation axis S of the outer cover 51) W. The pair of side plates 60 is provided on the upper side (side far from the rotation axis S of the exterior cover 51), and the pair of side plates 62 is provided on the lower side (side closer to the rotation axis S of the exterior cover 51). .

  The pair of side plates 60 are respectively formed with a first guide hole 64 and a second guide hole 66 extending along an orthogonal direction R orthogonal to the rotation axis S of the exterior cover 51. The first guide hole 64 is formed on the upper side (the tip side far from the rotation axis S of the outer cover 51), and the second guide hole 66 is lower (the rear end side close to the rotation axis S of the outer cover 51). The first guide hole 64 is shorter than the second guide hole 66.

  The pair of side plates 62 are respectively formed with third guide holes (guide means) 68 extending along an orthogonal direction R orthogonal to the rotation axis S of the exterior cover 51. The third guide hole 68 has substantially the same length as the second guide hole 66.

  On both side surfaces of the extension tray 76, a first shaft portion 70 is provided at one end portion in the longitudinal direction of the side surface (a tip portion far from the rotation axis S of the exterior cover 51). Further, on both side surfaces of the extension tray 76, long holes 72 are formed on the other side in the longitudinal direction of the side surface (the rear end side close to the rotation axis S of the outer cover 51).

  On both side surfaces of the manual feed tray 74, a pair of second shaft portions 78 is formed at one end portion in the longitudinal direction of the side surface (a tip portion far from the rotation axis S of the exterior cover 51). Further, on both side surfaces of the manual feed tray 74, a pair of third shaft portions 80 are formed in the center portion in the longitudinal direction of the side surface.

  A pair of second shaft portions 78 provided in the manual feed tray 74 engages with a long hole 72 formed in the extension tray 76, and the pair of second shaft portions 78 slides from one end to the other end of the long hole 72. Thus, the manual feed tray 74 is configured to slide between an overlapping position (a storage position where the extension tray 76 is stored) overlapping with the extension tray 76 and an extended position extending from the extension tray 76. ing.

  The pair of second shaft portions 78 engaged with the long holes 72 further engages with the second guide holes 66 at the front ends thereof, and the pair of third shaft portions 80 provided on the manual feed tray 74 includes: The third guide hole 68 is engaged.

  The pair of second shaft portions 78 slides from one end of the second guide hole 66 to the other end, and the pair of third shaft portions 80 slides from one end of the third guide hole 68 to the other end. The tray 74 is configured to slide along the exterior cover 51.

  Further, one end portion of the link member 84 is rotatably connected to a support shaft 86 provided on the free end side of the main body opening / closing portion 50 that is separated from the rotation shaft S of the main body opening / closing portion 50. The other end portion of the link member 84 is rotatably connected to the distal end portions of the pair of third shaft portions 80 engaged with the third guide hole 68. Accordingly, the manual feed tray 74 is supported by the support shaft 86 at a second position different from the rotation axis (first position) of the main body opening / closing portion 50 via the link member 84.

  When the exterior cover 51 is opened and closed, the pair of second shaft portions 78 slides along the second guide hole 66 in conjunction with the opening and closing, and the pair of third shaft portions 80 and the third shaft portions thereof. The other end portion of the link member 84 connected to 80 slides along the third guide hole 68, and the manual feed tray 74 is integrally opened and closed with the exterior cover 51.

  The pair of first shaft portions 70 provided on the extension tray 76 is engaged with the first guide hole 64, whereby the extension tray 76 is attached to the exterior cover 51 via the side plate 60.

  The pair of first shaft portions 70 slides from one end of the second guide hole 66 to the other end, and the long holes 72 formed in the extension tray 76 extend by sliding the second shaft portion 78. The tray 76 is configured to slide along the exterior cover 51.

  As a result, when the exterior cover 51 is opened, the extension tray 76 first slides integrally with the manual feed tray 74. Thereafter, the extension tray 76 is locked by the pair of first shaft portions 70 coming into contact with the end portions of the first guide holes 64.

  The second guide hole 66 and the third guide hole 68 are formed longer than the first guide hole 64, and the slide amount of the manual tray 74 is longer than the slide amount of the extension tray 76. Even after the extension tray 76 is locked, it slides relative to the extension tray 76.

  As shown in FIG. 7, a tension spring (elastic member) 86 is interposed between the manual feed tray 74 and the extension tray 76. One end of the tension spring 86 is attached to the upper wall surface of the extension tray 76, and the other end is attached to the center of the manual feed tray 74. The manual feed tray 74 slides between the overlapping position and the extended position. Therefore, it is configured to be displaced.

  As the manual feed tray 74 slides from the overlapping position to the extended position, the tension spring 86 is pulled and extended, so that the manual feed tray 74 slides to the extended position due to a reaction force to return to the original state. A resistance is given to a movement operation. Since the slide movement operation to the extension position of the manual feed tray 74 and the opening operation of the exterior cover 51 are interlocked, resistance is given to the slide movement operation to the extension position of the manual feed tray 74, thereby Resistance is given to the opening operation.

  Further, when the opening angle of the exterior cover 51 is increased, the sliding movement amount to the extension position of the manual feed tray 74 is increased, and the displacement amount (the extended amount) of the tension spring 86 is also increased. The resistance given to

  Further, in the closing operation of the exterior cover 51, a reaction force for returning to the original state is applied, and an assisting force is exerted in the closing direction of the exterior cover 51.

  One tension spring 86 is provided at the center in the width direction of the manual feed tray 74, and is arranged to equally apply resistance to the slide direction of the manual feed tray 74. Further, it is disposed between the back surface of the manual feed tray 74 and the extension tray 76 and the inner surface of the exterior cover 51. As a result, the manual feed tray 74 and the extension tray 76 and the outer cover 51 are covered and are not exposed to the outside.

  A plurality of tension springs 86 may be provided. In the case of providing a plurality of papers, it is desirable to arrange them at symmetrical positions in the width direction of the manual feed tray 74 so that resistance is equally applied in the slide direction of the manual feed tray 74.

  In the present embodiment, the tension spring is used as the elastic member according to the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a rubber member may be used. Any elastic member that provides resistance to the opening operation of the cover may be used.

  Next, the operation of the above embodiment will be described.

  According to the configuration of the present embodiment, the exterior cover 51 is moved from the apparatus body 12 side to the outside of the apparatus when the exterior cover 51 is unlocked and the body opening / closing part 50 is closed by the apparatus body 12 (FIG. 3). 4 (in the direction C in FIG. 4) and tilting to the open position opens the outer surface of the main body opening / closing part 50, opens the paper feed port 73 provided in the apparatus main body 12, and opens the outer cover 51. The paper can be fed from the manual feed tray 74 provided inside the paper.

  In the state where the exterior cover 51 is in the closed position, as shown in FIG. 8, the first shaft portion 70 of the extension tray 76 is one end portion of the first guide hole 64 (far from the rotation axis S of the exterior cover 51. The extension tray 76 is located on the distal end side of the outer cover 51 far from the rotation axis S.

  At this time, the second shaft portion 78 of the manual feed tray 74 is located at one end portion of the second guide hole 66 (the distal end portion of the exterior cover 51 far from the rotation axis S), and the third shaft portion of the manual feed tray 74. 80 is positioned at one end of the third guide hole 68 (the distal end of the exterior cover 51 far from the rotation axis S), and the manual feed tray 74 is positioned at the overlapping position where it overlaps the extension tray 76. Yes. At this time, the tension spring 86 is not pulled.

  When the exterior cover 51 starts to be opened, the first shaft portion 70 of the extension tray 76 moves from the one end portion of the first guide hole 64 (the distal end portion of the exterior cover 51 far from the rotation axis S) to the first guide hole. When the exterior cover 51 is opened to a predetermined opening angle by sliding to the other end portion 64 (the rear end portion of the exterior cover 51 on the side close to the rotation axis S), as shown in FIG. It contacts the other end of the guide hole 64. Thereby, the extension tray 76 is locked at this position, and the slide movement is restricted.

  At this time, the second shaft portion 78 of the manual feed tray 74 extends from one end portion of the second guide hole 66 (the distal end portion of the exterior cover 51 far from the rotation axis S) to the other end portion of the second guide hole 66 ( The outer cover 51 is slid to the rear end of the outer cover 51 close to the rotation axis S, and the third shaft portion 80 of the manual feed tray 74 is connected to one end of the third guide hole 68 (from the rotation axis S of the outer cover 51). It slides from the far end to the other end of the third guide hole 68 (the rear end of the exterior cover 51 close to the rotation axis S). Thus, the manual feed tray 74 slides integrally with the extension tray 76 until the extension tray 76 is locked.

  At this time, since the manual feed tray 74 and the extension tray 76 slide together, the tension spring 86 is not pulled. Accordingly, the resistance of the tension spring 86 is not given to the opening operation of the exterior cover 51 while the exterior cover 51 is opened and opened to a predetermined opening angle.

  Thereby, in the initial stage of opening of the exterior cover 51, the exterior cover 51 is easy to open and the operability is improved. In particular, in the initial stage of opening the exterior cover 51, when the exterior cover 51 starts to be opened, a load due to the weight of the exterior cover 51 is not applied. Therefore, when the resistance of the tension spring 86 is given to the opening operation of the exterior cover 51, Since it is difficult to open the exterior cover 51, it is desirable to configure in this way.

  Further, when the exterior cover 51 is opened, only the manual feed tray 74 slides as shown in FIG. 10 while the extension tray 76 is locked. As a result, the tension spring 86 is pulled, and resistance is given to the slide movement operation of the manual feed tray 74. As a result, resistance is given to the opening operation of the exterior cover 51, and the opening / closing operation of the exterior cover 51 becomes gentle.

  Further, when the exterior cover 51 is opened, the second shaft portion 78 of the manual feed tray 74 is connected to the other end portion of the second guide hole 66 (the rear end portion of the exterior cover 51 on the side close to the rotation axis S). The third shaft portion 80 of the manual feed tray 74 comes into contact with the other end portion of the third guide hole 68 (the rear end portion of the exterior cover 51 on the side close to the rotation axis S), and slides on the manual feed tray 74. Movement is restricted. Thereby, the opening of the exterior cover 51 is regulated at a predetermined opening angle.

  When the exterior cover 51 is closed from the open state, a reaction force that attempts to return to the original state is applied from the tension spring 86, assisting in the closing direction of the exterior cover 51, and the exterior cover 51 is easily closed.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, since the tension spring 86 provides resistance to the opening operation of the exterior cover 51, the opening / closing operation of the exterior cover 51 becomes gentle. Thereby, there are effects such as easy opening operation of the exterior cover 51 and buffering an impact generated between the exterior cover 51 and the main body opening / closing part 50 and the apparatus main body 12.

  Further, since the tension spring 86 is interposed between the exterior cover 51 and the manual feed tray 74, the elastic force of the tension spring 86 does not act on the main body opening / closing part 50 and the apparatus main body 12, and the main body opening / closing part 50 and The apparatus body 12 is not stressed.

  Further, since the tension spring 86 is interposed between the exterior cover 51 and the manual feed tray 74, the tension spring 86 is provided even when there is no space for the tension spring 86 on the main body opening / closing portion 50 side and the apparatus main body 12 side. Can be attached.

  Further, in the present embodiment, since the tension spring 86 is not arranged in the vicinity of the support portion of the exterior cover 51, even when the weight of the exterior cover 51 increases, the displacement amount of the tension spring 86 can be relatively large, It is not necessary to use the tension spring 86 having such a strong elastic force.

  Further, in this embodiment, since a strap or the like for connecting the exterior cover 51 and the main body opening / closing unit 50 is not necessary, there are no obstructive components when loading the paper P on the manual feed tray 74, and the paper P is placed on the manual feed tray 74. Easy to load. Further, the exterior cover 51 has an excellent appearance.

  In this embodiment, since the tension spring 86 is displaced as the manual feed tray 74 slides, the tension spring 86 is disposed along the slide direction of the manual feed tray 74, that is, along the exterior cover 51. Thus, the exterior cover 51 can be reduced in size (thinned) and saved in space.

  Further, as in the present embodiment, the tension spring 86 is disposed along the exterior cover 51, so that, for example, the tension spring 86 can be mounted on the back surface of the manual feed tray 74, and the assemblability is good.

  In this embodiment, since the tension spring 86 is interposed between the extension tray 76 and the manual feed tray 74, after the tension spring 86 is interposed between the extension member and the manual feed tray 74, the extension tray 86 is inserted. Since 76 and the manual feed tray 74 can be attached to the exterior cover 51 and the main body opening / closing part 50, the assemblability is improved.

  In the present embodiment, since the tension spring 86 is covered with the manual feed tray 74 and the exterior cover 51, the tension spring 86 is not exposed to the outside and the appearance is improved.

  In the present embodiment, the tension spring 86 is arranged so as to evenly apply resistance in the sliding direction of the manual feed tray 74. Therefore, when the exterior cover 51 is opened and closed, the exterior cover 51 may tilt. Absent.

  In the above embodiment, the paper tray as the second opening / closing unit is the manual feed tray. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and is, for example, a paper discharge tray that receives the paper P discharged from the apparatus main body 12. Also good.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the part same as 1st Embodiment, and description is abbreviate | omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the opening / closing mechanism 13 of the opening / closing part according to the second embodiment is supported at the first position of the apparatus main body (support) 12 by the hinge part 81, and at the apparatus main body 12. An exterior cover (first opening / closing part) 82 that can be opened and closed is provided.

The apparatus body 12 includes an inner cover (second opening / closing section) 9 that can be opened and closed with respect to the apparatus body 12.
4 is provided.

  One end of the inner cover 94 is rotatably supported by a hinge portion 83 at a second position of the apparatus body 12 different from the first position. The second position is provided on the free end side of the exterior cover 82 that is away from the rotation axis of the exterior cover 82.

  The other end of the inner cover 94 is attached to the outer cover 82. A shaft portion 85 is provided at the other end portion of the inner cover 94, and the shaft portion 85 engages with a guide hole 92 formed in the other end portion of the exterior cover 82. As the shaft 85 slides from one end of the guide hole 92 to the other end, the other end of the inner cover 94 slides along the exterior cover 82 as the exterior cover 82 opens and closes. As a result, the inner cover 94 is opened and closed integrally with the outer cover 82.

  A compression spring (elastic member) 88 is interposed between the outer cover 82 and the inner cover 94. One end portion of the compression spring 88 is in contact with the shaft portion 85 of the inner cover 94, and the other end portion of the compression spring 88 is in contact with a stopper 89 provided on the exterior cover 82. As a result, the compression spring 88 is displaced as the other end of the inner cover 94 slides along the outer cover 82.

  As the inner cover 94 slides, the compression spring 86 is compressed, and resistance is given to the sliding movement of the inner cover 94 by a reaction force that attempts to return to the original state. Since the sliding movement operation of the inner cover 94 and the opening operation of the outer cover 82 are interlocked, resistance is applied to the opening operation of the outer cover 82 by applying resistance to the sliding movement operation of the inner cover 94.

  Further, when the opening angle of the outer cover 82 is increased, the sliding movement amount of the inner cover 94 is increased, and the displacement amount (compression amount) of the compression spring 88 is also increased. Becomes stronger.

  Further, in the closing operation of the exterior cover 82, a reaction force for returning to the original state is applied, and an assisting force is exerted in the closing direction of the exterior cover 82.

  An application example in which the opening / closing mechanism 13 of the opening / closing part is applied to an image forming apparatus is shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 12, the image forming apparatus 90 opens and closes the first transport path 22 and the second transport path 46 for reversing the paper P, and serves as an opening / closing section for replacing components inside the apparatus. An inner cover 94 and an outer cover 82 are provided. The inner cover 94 is provided with a transfer device 38. When the inner cover 94 is opened, a nip portion formed between the photosensitive drum 30 and the transfer device 38 is opened.

  According to the configuration of the image forming apparatus 90, when the exterior cover 82 is opened, the inner cover 94 is also interlocked, the first conveyance path 22 and the second conveyance path 46 are opened, and the first conveyance path 22 and the second conveyance path. The jam caused by 46 can be resolved. Moreover, the components inside the apparatus can be exchanged.

  When the outer cover 82 is opened, the other end portion of the inner cover 94 slides and the compression spring 88 is compressed and applied to the opening operation of the outer cover 82.

  As described above, in this embodiment, resistance is given to the opening operation of the exterior cover 82 by the compression spring 88, so that the opening / closing operation of the exterior cover 82 becomes gentle. Thereby, there are effects such as easy opening operation of the outer cover 82 and buffering an impact generated between the outer cover 82 and the apparatus main body 12.

  Further, since the compression spring 88 is interposed between the exterior cover 82 and the inner cover 94, the elastic force of the compression spring 88 does not act on the apparatus main body 12, and no stress is applied to the apparatus main body 12.

  Further, since the compression spring 88 is interposed between the outer cover 82 and the inner cover 94, the compression spring 88 can be attached even when there is no space for the compression spring 88 on the apparatus main body 12 side. .

  Further, in this embodiment, since the compression spring 88 is not arranged in the vicinity of the support portion of the exterior cover 82, even when the weight of the exterior cover 82 increases, the displacement amount of the compression spring 88 can be relatively large, It is not necessary to use the compression spring 88 having such a strong elastic force.

  Further, in the present embodiment, since a strap or the like for connecting the exterior cover 82 and the apparatus main body 12 is not necessary, when removing the jam that has occurred in the first conveyance path 22 and the second conveyance path 46, and the components inside the apparatus There are no obstructive components when replacing, and it is easy to handle jams and replace parts. Also, the exterior cover 82 has an excellent appearance.

  In the present embodiment, the compression spring 88 is displaced as the inner cover 94 slides. Therefore, the compression spring 88 is disposed along the sliding direction of the inner cover 94, that is, along the exterior cover 82. Accordingly, the exterior cover 82 can be reduced in size (thinned) and saved in space.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications, changes, and improvements can be made without departing from the gist of the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an overall configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the main body opening / closing part and the exterior cover are opened in the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the exterior cover is opened in the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a state in which the exterior cover is opened in the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a state in which the exterior cover is closed in the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a perspective view for illustrating a state in which the manual feed tray is attached to the exterior cover according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the back surface of the manual feed tray according to the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the exterior cover is closed in the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an initial stage in which the exterior cover starts to be opened in the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a state where the exterior cover is opened in the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an opening / closing mechanism of the opening / closing unit according to the second embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an image forming apparatus to which the opening / closing mechanism of the opening / closing unit according to the second embodiment is applied.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Image forming apparatus 11 Opening-closing part opening-closing mechanism 12 Apparatus main body (support body)
13 Opening / Closing Mechanism of Opening / Closing Part 50 Main Body Opening / Closing Part (Support)
51 Exterior cover (first opening / closing part)
64 1st guide hole (locking means)
68 Third guide hole (guide means)
74 Bypass tray (second open / close section, paper tray)
82 Exterior cover (first opening / closing part)
84 Link member (connecting means)
86 Tension spring (elastic member)
88 Compression spring (elastic member)
90 Image forming apparatus 92 Inner cover (second opening / closing part)

Claims (7)

An opening / closing part supported to be opened and closed at a first position of the support;
A paper tray that is attached to the opening / closing part without being attached to the support, and is integrally opened / closed with the opening / closing part;
A connecting means that is supported at a second position of the support different from the first position and connects the support and the paper tray;
An elastic member that is interposed between the opening / closing portion and the paper tray, and is displaced in accordance with the opening / closing operation of the opening / closing portion, and imparts resistance to the opening operation of the opening / closing portion;
With
The connecting means moves relative to the support and the opening / closing part with the opening / closing operation of the opening / closing part between the support and the opening / closing part.
The paper tray slides with respect to the opening / closing part in association with the relative movement of the connecting means relative to the support and the opening / closing part .
The opening / closing part is provided with an extension member attached to the paper tray,
The paper tray further slides relative to the extension member in accordance with the opening / closing operation of the opening / closing portion.
The elastic member is interposed between the extension member and the paper tray, and is displaced as the paper tray slides relative to the opening / closing portion and the extension member to provide resistance to the opening operation of the opening / closing portion. Opening and closing mechanism for the opening and closing part.   The extension member is slidably attached to the opening / closing section, and includes an engaging means for locking the extension member after sliding the sheet tray integrally with the opening / closing section when the opening / closing section is opened.
  The paper tray slides relative to the extension member after the extension member is locked to the locking means, thereby displacing the elastic member.
  The opening / closing mechanism of the opening / closing part according to claim 1.   The opening / closing part is an exterior cover that covers the support,
  The extension member is an extension tray that extends from the paper tray.
  The opening / closing mechanism of the opening / closing part according to claim 1 or 2.   The opening / closing part is provided with guide means,
  The connecting means includes
  One end portion is rotatably connected to the support body, and the other end portion is connected to the paper tray and includes a link member that moves along the guide means.
  The opening / closing mechanism of the opening-closing part of any one of Claims 1-3.   The opening / closing mechanism of the opening / closing part according to claim 1, wherein the elastic member is covered by the paper tray and the opening / closing part.   The opening / closing mechanism of the opening / closing part according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the elastic member is disposed so as to equally apply resistance in a sliding direction of the paper tray.   An image forming apparatus comprising the opening / closing mechanism of the opening / closing part according to claim 1.

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