JP5942879B2 - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus.

  In a conventional image forming apparatus, a technique described in Patent Document 1 below is conventionally known with respect to a configuration in which a unit for transporting a medium can be attached to and detached from the main body of the image forming apparatus.

  Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 8-2704 as Patent Document 1 detects that the conveyance unit cover (4, 5) is opened when a jam occurs in the sheet conveyance path including the duplex unit (2). And the structure by which the duplex unit (2) is pushed out by a spring (10) is described. Further, in Patent Document 1, when it is detected that the transport unit cover (4, 5) is opened, the handle cover (11) that closes the handle portion of the duplex unit (2) moves, and the duplex unit ( A configuration is also described in which 2) can be derived.

JP-A-8-2704 ("0005" to "0011", FIGS. 1 to 5)

  An object of the present invention is to make it easier to remove paper jammed between the storage unit and the transport unit.

In order to solve the technical problem, an image forming apparatus according to claim 1 is provided.
A storage unit for storing a medium, wherein the storage unit is supported so as to be able to enter and exit the main body of the image forming apparatus;
A transport unit that transports a medium stored in the storage unit, the transport unit supported so as to be able to enter and exit the main body of the image forming apparatus;
A linking member that interlocks the drawer of the transport unit with the drawer of the storage unit from the main body of the image forming apparatus, the first position for interlocking the drawer of the transport unit with the drawer of the storage unit; The interlocking member movable between a second position where the drawer of the transport unit is not interlocked with the drawer of the
A moving member that moves the interlocking member between the first position and the second position;
A discriminating means for discriminating whether or not the medium remains in the transport section;
When the determination unit determines that the medium remains in the transport unit, the interlock member is moved from the second position to the first position via the moving member, and the medium is moved to the transport unit. If the moving member is not determined to remain, the moving member control means for holding the interlocking member in the second position ;
Provided in the transport section, the interlocking member contacts the interlocking member when moved to the first position, and is separated from the interlocking member when the interlocking member moves to the second position. The interlocked part,
In a state where the housing portion is mounted on the main body of the image forming apparatus, the moving member contacts the moving member to hold the interlocking member in the second position, and the housing portion is detached from the main body of the image forming apparatus. When the interlocking member passes through the position of the interlocked portion, the interlocking member having a moving contact portion that is separated from the moving member;
A gripping portion supported by the housing portion so as to be movable between a gripping position and a non-gripping position, and capable of being gripped by an operator when pulling out the housing portion;
A second interlocking member that applies a force to the interlocking member to move the interlocking member from the second position toward the first position when the gripper moves to the gripping position; In a state where the interlocking member is moved to the first position by the moving member, the interlocking member is held at the first position, and the interlocking member is moved to the first position by the moving member. Then, when the moving contact portion is separated from the moving member, the second interlocking member that moves the interlocking member to the first position;
It is provided with.

According to a second aspect of the invention, in the image forming apparatus according to claim 1,
A first pushing member that pushes the interlocking member toward the first position; a string-like member having one end supported by the interlocking member; and the other end of the string-like member supported and supported by the housing portion The string-like member is stretched by pressing the string-fixed part, the string-contacting part that is supported so as to be movable with respect to the fixed part and that contacts the string-like member, and the string contact member. A second push that exerts a force pushing the interlocking member toward the second position and the first pushing member exerts a force greater than a force pushing the interlocking member toward the first position. A movable part that is connected to the gripping part, is movable with the gripping part and contacts the contact part of the string, and the tension of the string-like member is increased when the gripping part moves to the gripping position. The movable part that moves the contact part of the string in a decreasing direction; It said second interlocking member having,
It is provided with.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to easily remove the jammed paper straddling between the storage unit and the conveyance unit, compared to the case where the interlocking member of the present invention is not provided.
According to the first aspect of the present invention, the movement of the interlocking member can be interlocked with the movement of the gripping portion.
According to the invention described in claim 2, it is possible to interlock the movement of the interlocking member to move the grip portion via the string member.

FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an image forming apparatus including a medium container according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the upper sheet feeding tray and the conveyance unit of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV in FIG. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a cover portion of the paper feed tray according to the first exemplary embodiment. FIG. 6 is an explanatory view showing a state in which the handle is gripped from the state shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of a state in which the paper feed tray is pulled out from the state shown in FIG. FIG. 8 is an explanatory view when the operator releases the handle in the state shown in FIG. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of the paper feed tray when a jam occurs. FIG. 10 is an explanatory view showing a state in which the handle is grasped from the state shown in FIG. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of a state in which the paper feed tray is pulled forward from the state shown in FIG. FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram of the paper feed tray and the conveyance unit according to the second embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 4 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is an explanatory view of main parts of the interlocking member and the moving member of the second embodiment.

Next, examples as specific examples of embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the following examples.
In order to facilitate understanding of the following description, in the drawings, the front-rear direction is the X-axis direction, the left-right direction is the Y-axis direction, the up-down direction is the Z-axis direction, and arrows X, -X, Y, -Y, The direction indicated by Z and -Z or the indicated side is defined as the front side, the rear side, the right side, the left side, the upper side, the lower side, or the front side, the rear side, the right side, the left side, the upper side, and the lower side, respectively.
In the figure, “•” in “○” means an arrow heading from the back of the page to the front, and “×” in “○” is the front of the page. It means an arrow pointing from the back to the back.
In the following description using the drawings, illustrations other than members necessary for the description are omitted as appropriate for easy understanding.

FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an image forming apparatus including a medium container according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
In FIG. 1, a copier U as an example of an image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment is an example of a recording unit, and includes a printer unit U1 as an example of an image recording apparatus. A scanner unit U2 as an example of a reading unit and an example of an image reading device is supported on the upper portion of the printer unit U1. An auto feeder U3 as an example of a document transport device is supported on the upper portion of the scanner unit U2. The scanner unit U2 of the first embodiment supports a user interface U0 as an example of an input unit. The user interface U0 can be operated by the operator by inputting the user interface U0.

  A document tray TG1 as an example of a medium container is disposed on the upper part of the auto feeder U3. A plurality of documents Gi to be copied can be stacked and stored in the document tray TG1. A document discharge tray TG2 as an example of a document discharge unit is formed below the document tray TG1. A document transport roll U3b is disposed along the document transport path U3a between the document tray TG1 and the document discharge tray TG.

A platen glass PG as an example of a transparent document table is disposed on the upper surface of the scanner unit U2. In the scanner unit U2 of the first embodiment, a reading optical system A is disposed below the platen glass PG. The optical system A for reading in Example 1 is supported so as to be movable in the left-right direction along the lower surface of the platen glass PG. The reading optical system A is normally stopped at the initial position shown in FIG.
On the left side of the optical system A for reading, an imaging element CCD as an example of an imaging member is disposed. An image processing unit GS is electrically connected to the image sensor CCD.
The image processing unit GS is electrically connected to the writing circuit DL of the printer unit U1. The writing circuit DL is electrically connected to an exposure apparatus ROS as an example of a latent image forming apparatus.

A photosensitive drum PR, which is an example of an image carrier, is disposed below the exposure apparatus ROS. The photosensitive drum PR rotates in the direction of the arrow Ya.
On the photosensitive drum PR, a charging roll CR, which is an example of a charger, is disposed opposite to the charging area Q0. A charging voltage is applied from the power supply circuit E to the transfer roll CR. The power supply circuit E is controlled by a controller C as an example of a control unit. The controller C performs various controls by transmitting and receiving signals to and from the image processing unit GS and the writing circuit DL.
In the writing area Q1 set on the downstream side of the charging area Q0 with respect to the rotation direction of the photosensitive drum PR, a laser beam L as an example of writing light from the exposure device ROS is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum PR. Is irradiated.
In the developing area Q2 set on the downstream side of the writing area Q1 with respect to the rotation direction of the photosensitive drum PR, the developing device G is disposed to face the surface of the photosensitive drum PR.

On the left side of the developing device G, a cartridge K as an example of a developer container is disposed. The cartridge K is detachably attached to a cartridge holder KS as an example of a container support member. Below the cartridge holder KS, a reserve tank RT as an example of a temporary storage portion for the developer is disposed. The reserve tank RT and the developing device G are connected by a developer transport device GH.
A transfer area Q3 is set on the downstream side of the development area Q2 with respect to the rotation direction of the photosensitive drum PR.

Under the printer unit U1, paper feed trays TR1 to TR5 as an example of a medium storage unit are supported so as to be able to enter and exit. Sheets T1 to TR5 contain sheets S as an example of a medium.
In the copying machine U according to the first embodiment, the upper paper feed trays TR1 and TR2 are set to have a width in the left-right direction that is half that of the lower paper feed trays TR3 to TR5. Therefore, the upper sheet feed trays TR1 and TR2 are configured to accommodate a sheet S that is half the size of the largest sheet S that can be accommodated in the lower sheet feed trays TR3 to TR5.

A pickup roll Rp as an example of a medium take-out member is disposed on the upper left side of each of the paper feed trays TR1 to TR5. On the left side of the pick-up roll Rp, a separating roll Rs as an example of a separating member is disposed.
On the left side of each of the paper feed trays TR1, TR3 to TR5, a medium transport path SH1 extending upward is formed. A plurality of transport rolls Ra as an example of a medium transport member are arranged in the transport path SH1.
A connection path SH1a as an example of a medium transport path is formed above the upper left sheet feed tray TR1. The connection path SH1a extends leftward from the upper right sheet feed tray TR2, and the left end joins the transport path SH1.
In the conveyance path SH1, a registration roll Rr as an example of a feeding member is disposed on the downstream side in the conveyance direction of the sheet S and on the upstream side of the transfer region Q3.

  On the left side of the cartridge holder KS or the like, a manual feed tray TRt, which is an example of a medium storage container and serves as a manual feed portion, is installed. The manual feed tray TRt according to the first exemplary embodiment is supported to be rotatable about the rotation center TRt0. Therefore, the manual feed tray TRt is configured to be movable between a housed position shown by a solid line in FIG. 1 and a feedable position shown by a one-dot chain line in FIG. When the manual feed tray TRt according to the first embodiment is moved to the stored position, a part TRt1 of the manual feed tray TRt is accommodated in a state of entering the lower side of the cartridge holder KS and the left side of the reserve tank RT. . Accordingly, the entire copying machine U is reduced in capacity and reduced in size.

In the transfer area Q3, a transfer unit TU, which is an example of a transfer device and an example of a medium transport device, is disposed below the photosensitive drum PR. The transfer unit TU includes an endless transfer belt TB as an example of a medium transport member.
The transfer belt TB is rotatably supported by a driving roll Rd as an example of a driving member and a driven roll Rf as an example of a driven member.
Inside the transfer belt TB, a transfer roll TR as an example of a transfer device is supported. The transfer roll TR is disposed to face the photosensitive drum PR with the transfer belt TB interposed therebetween. Therefore, the transfer region Q3 is constituted by the region where the transfer roll TR and the photosensitive drum PR face each other. A transfer voltage is applied from the power supply circuit E to the transfer roll TR.

A peeling claw SC as an example of a medium peeling member is disposed at the right end of the transfer belt TB. Below the peeling claw SC, a belt cleaner CLb as an example of a cleaner of the transfer device is disposed to face the surface of the transfer belt TB.
Note that a drum cleaner CLp, which is an example of an image carrier cleaner, is disposed on the downstream side of the transfer region Q3 with respect to the rotation direction of the photosensitive drum PR so as to face the surface of the photosensitive drum PR. Yes.

A fixing device F is disposed on the right side of the transfer unit TU. The fixing device F includes a heating roll Fh as an example of a rotating member for heating and a pressure roll Fp as an example of a rotating member for pressure.
To the right of the fixing device F, a discharge path SH2 extending upward is connected as an example of a medium transport path.
In the discharge path SH2, as an example of a medium transport member, a transport roll Rb and a discharge roll Rh capable of transporting the medium and rotating in the forward and reverse directions are arranged.
On the upper surface of the printer unit U1, a paper discharge tray Rh as an example of a medium discharge unit is formed.

(Description of image forming operation)
The plurality of documents Gi stored in the document tray TG1 sequentially passes through the document reading position on the platen glass PG and is discharged to the document discharge tray TG2.
When the automatic feeder U3 is used to automatically convey and copy a document, each document that sequentially passes through the reading position on the platen glass PG with the reading optical system A stopped at the initial position. Gi is exposed.
When the operator places the document Gi on the platen glass PG by hand, the optical system A for reading moves in the left-right direction, and the document on the platen glass PG is scanned while being exposed.
The reflected light from the document Gi passes through the optical system A and is collected on the image sensor CCD. The image pickup device CCD converts the reflected light of the original collected on the image pickup surface into an electric signal.

The image processing unit GS converts the read signal input from the image sensor CCD into a digital image signal and outputs the digital image signal to the writing circuit DL of the printer unit U1. The writing circuit DL outputs a control signal corresponding to the input image writing signal to the exposure apparatus ROS.
The surface of the photosensitive drum PR is charged by the charging roll CR in the charging region Q0. At the latent image writing position Q1, the laser beam L output from the exposure apparatus ROS forms an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photoconductor PR. In the developing region Q2, the developing device G develops the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum PR that passes through the developing region Q2 into a toner image Tn as an example of a visible image. When the developer is consumed in the developing device G, the developer transport device GH is operated according to the consumption amount, and the developer is supplied from the cartridge K to the developing device G.

The sheets S in the respective trays TR1 to TR5 are taken out by the pickup roll Rp at a preset sheet feeding time. The sheets S picked up by the pickup roll Rp are separated one by one by the separating roll Rs when picked up in a state where a plurality of sheets S are overlapped. The sheet S that has passed the separating roll Rs is conveyed to the registration roll Rr by a plurality of conveyance rolls Ra.
The sheet S fed from the manual feed tray TRt also joins the transport path SH and is transported to the registration roll Rr.

The sheet S conveyed to the registration roll Rr is transferred from the sheet guide SG1 before transfer as an example of a guide member before transfer to the transfer area according to the timing when the toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum PR moves to the transfer area Q3. It is transported toward Q3.
The sheet S conveyed from the registration roll Rr is supported on the surface of the transfer belt TB and passes through the transfer region Q3. The toner image Tn on the surface of the photosensitive drum PR is transferred to the sheet S passing through the transfer region Q3 by the transfer voltage applied to the transfer roll TR.
The surface of the photosensitive drum PR after passing through the transfer region Q3 is cleaned by removing residual toner by the drum cleaner CLp. The surface of the photosensitive drum PR after cleaning is recharged by the charging roll CR.

The sheet S to which the toner image Tn is transferred is peeled from the transfer belt TB by the peeling claw SC. From the transfer belt TB from which the sheet S has been peeled off, deposits such as developer and paper dust attached to the surface of the transfer belt TB are removed by the belt cleaner CLb. When the sheet S peeled from the transfer belt TB passes through the contact area between the heating roll Fh and the pressure roll Fp, the toner image is heated and pressed to be fixed.
The recording sheet S on which the toner image is fixed passes through the gate MG while being elastically deformed, and is conveyed to the discharge path SH2. The sheet S discharged to the paper discharge tray TRh is transported by the transport roll Rb and discharged to the paper discharge tray TRh by the discharge roll Rh.

(Description of paper feed tray and transport unit)
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the upper sheet feeding tray and the conveyance unit of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment.
2 and 3, in the copying machine U according to the first embodiment, a relay unit 1 as an example of a transport unit is disposed above the upper left sheet feed tray TR1. The relay unit 1 has a relay path SH1a formed therein, and supports a pickup roll Rp and a separating roll Rs that feed paper from the upper right paper feed tray TR2. The relay unit 1 is supported so as to be able to enter and exit the main body U1 of the copying machine.

An interlocking plate 2 as an example of the interlocked portion is supported on the rear surface of the right end portion of the relay unit 1. The interlocking plate 2 of Example 1 is formed in a plate shape extending downward. Further, the interlocking plate 2 according to the first embodiment is disposed behind the upper right sheet feeding tray TR2.
Note that a sensor SN1 as an example of a medium detection member is arranged inside the relay unit 1. The sensor SN1 detects the remaining sheet S that has passed through the relay path SH1a.

4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV in FIG.
2 to 4, the upper right sheet feeding tray TR <b> 2 of the first embodiment includes a tray body 11 as an example of a main body of the storage unit.
The tray body 11 has a bottom wall 12. From the front, rear, left, and right of the bottom wall 12, a front wall 13, a rear wall 14, a left wall 16, and a right wall 17 extend upward.
A lift plate (not shown) as an example of a stacking member is supported on the bottom wall 12 so as to be liftable. The recording sheet S is stacked on the elevating plate, and the sheet feeding plate is raised until the upper surface of the recording sheet S comes into contact with the pickup roll Rp during sheet feeding. A guide 18 as an example of a guide member is disposed on the bottom wall 12. The guide 18 aligns the edges of the recording sheet S and provides guidance when feeding. In FIG. 3, only the rear guide 18 is shown, and the front and right guides are not shown. The rear wall 14 is set such that the upper end position is higher than the lower end of the interlocking plate 2. On the front side of the front wall 13, a cover 21 is supported as an example of a support for the gripping portion. In the cover 21 of the first embodiment, the left end of the cover 21 is disposed to the left of the left wall 16.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a cover portion of the paper feed tray according to the first exemplary embodiment.
3 to 5, a concave portion 22 that is recessed inward is formed on the left portion of the cover 21. 4 and 5, a handle 23 as an example of a gripping part is disposed above the recess 22. The handle 23 is rotatably supported by the cover 21 around a rotation center 23a arranged at the upper end. In FIG. 4, the handle 23 according to the first embodiment is supported so as to be movable between a non-gripping position indicated by a solid line in FIG. 4 and a gripping position indicated by a broken line in FIG.
The handle 23 has a handle main body 24 as an example of the main body of the gripping portion. The handle main body 24 is formed in a plate shape extending in the left-right direction. The handle main body 24 extends downward from the rotation center 23a and has a lower end curved upward. Therefore, the handle body 24 is configured to be gripped when the operator inserts his / her hand into the recess 22 and pulls out the paper feed tray TR2.

A latch contact plate 26 as an example of a locking contact portion is supported on the upper end of the handle body 24. The latch contact plate 26 is formed in a plate shape extending rightward from the rotation center 23a. A guide surface 27 as an example of a guide portion is formed below the latch contact plate 26. The guide surface 27 is formed in an arc shape that curves backward as it goes downward.
A link plate 28 as an example of a first connecting member is disposed behind the latch contact plate 26. The link plate 28 is rotatably supported by the cover 21 around the rotation center 28a. The link plate 28 has a contacted portion 28b extending forward from the rotation center 28a. The contacted portion 28b is arranged in a state of entering below the contact plate 26 for latching.

An upper end of a link rod 29 as an example of a second connecting member is connected to the rear end portion of the link plate 28 and the central portion in the left-right direction. The link rod 29 is rotatably connected to the link plate 28.
At the lower end of the link rod 29, a flange 29a as an example of a support portion for an elastic member is formed. A support plate 31 as an example of a support portion of an elastic member is formed on the cover 21 at a position corresponding to the upper side of the flange 29a. A coil spring 32 as an example of an elastic member is mounted between the support plate 31 and the flange 29a. The coil spring 32 of the first embodiment applies a force that always pushes the flange 29a downward.

A latch 33 as an example of a locking member is supported at the lower end of the link rod 29. The latch 33 is rotatably supported by the cover 21 at the rotation center 33a at the front end. The latch 33 has a main body portion 33b extending rearward from the rotation center 33a. The lower end of the link rod 29 is rotatably supported on the upper surface of the front portion of the main body 33b. A bent portion 33c bent downward is integrally formed at the rear end of the main body portion 33b. A claw portion 33d bent forward is formed at the lower end of the bent portion 33c. A guided surface 33e as an example of a guided surface is formed on the rear surface of the claw portion 33d. The guided surface 33e is inclined forward as it goes downward.
The cover 21 is formed with a catch portion 34 at a position corresponding to the claw portion 33d.

4 and 5, a cam 36 as an example of a movable portion is supported at the left end of the handle 23. The cam 36 is formed in a plate shape extending rearward from the handle 23. Therefore, the cam 36 is supported so as to be rotatable around the rotation center 23 a together with the handle 23. An arcuate contact surface 36 a is formed at the rear end of the cam 36.
Behind the cam 36, a cable adjuster 37 is disposed as an example of a string member adjusting portion. The cable adjuster 37 has a casing 38 as an example of a fixed portion. The casing 38 is supported on the outer surface of the left wall 16. The casing 38 is formed in a box shape whose front is opened. A passage port 38 a as an example of a passage portion for the string-like member is formed in the upper portion of the rear end of the casing 38.
A hook 39 as an example of a fixing portion of the string-like member is supported at the rear end portion inside the casing 38.

A float 41 as an example of a moving body is disposed in front of the casing 38. The float 41 is supported by the casing 38 so as to be movable in the front-rear direction. The upper surface 41a of the float 41 is formed in an arc shape that curves downward as it goes forward. In the first embodiment, the contact surface 36a of the cam 36 is configured to be able to contact and separate from the upper surface 41a of the float 41. A spring support plate 42 as an example of a support portion of an elastic member is supported inside the float 41. Between the spring support plate 42 and the inner surface of the casing 38, a compression spring 43, which is an example of a second pushing member and is an example of a member for interlock release, is supported. The compression spring 43 according to the first embodiment applies a force that pushes the float 41 forward.
A tension roller 44 as an example of a string contact portion is rotatably supported on the spring support plate 42.
A cable adjuster 37 according to the first embodiment is configured by the members having the reference numerals 38 to 44.

A lever 51 as an example of an interlocking member is disposed behind the cable adjuster 37. The lever 51 is rotatably supported on the outer surface of the left wall 16 around the rotation center 51a. In FIG. 4, the lever 51 of the first embodiment is located between a non-interlocking position as an example of the second position indicated by a solid line in FIG. 4 and an interlocking position as an example of the first position indicated by a broken line in FIG. 4. It is supported so as to be movable.
The lever 51 has a lever main body 52 as an example of a main body portion of the interlocking member. The lever main body 52 extends rearward from the rotation center 51a. A claw portion 53 as an example of a contact portion for interlocking is formed at the rear end portion of the lever main body 52. An interlocking surface 53 a as an example of a contact surface is formed at the front end portion of the claw portion 53. The interlocking surface 53 a of the first embodiment is configured by a surface that extends vertically from the upper surface of the lever main body 52. A guide surface 53b as an example of a guide surface is formed at the rear end of the claw portion 53. The guide surface 53b according to the first embodiment is configured by an inclined surface that is inclined downward as it goes rearward. The claw portion 53 of the first embodiment is configured so that the interlocking surface 53a is positioned behind the interlocking plate 2 when the lever 51 is moved to the interlocking position with the paper feed tray TR2 attached to the printer unit U1. , The position is set.

A lower lever 54 as an example of a moving contact portion is formed at the front portion of the lever main body 52. The lower lever 54 of the first embodiment is formed in a shape that branches from the lever main body 52 obliquely downward and rearward.
A cable connecting portion 56 as an example of a support portion for the string-like member is formed at the front end portion of the lever main body 52. The cable connecting portion 56 extends downward from the rotation center 51a.
One end of a cable 57 as an example of a string-like member is supported at the lower end of the cable connecting portion 56. The cable 57 is wound around the tension roller 44 through the passage opening 38 a of the cable adjuster 37. The other end of the cable 57 is supported by the hook 39.

A tension spring 58 as an example of a first pressing member is supported at the lower end of the cable connecting portion 56. The tension spring 58 applies a force that always pulls the cable connecting portion 56 backward. Therefore, the tension spring 58 applies a force that pushes the lever 51 from the non-interlocking position toward the interlocking position. The tension spring 58 also acts to pull the cable 57 backward.
In the first embodiment, each spring 43 is set so that the force by which the tension spring 58 pulls the cable 57 backward is weaker than the force by which the compression spring 43 pulls the cable 57 forward via the tension roll 44. , 58 is set.
The cam 36, the cable adjuster 37, the cable 57, the tension spring 58, and the like constitute the second interlocking member 36 + 37 + 57 + 58 of the first embodiment. The second interlocking member 36 + 37 + 57 + 58 of the first embodiment interlocks the movement of the handle 23 and the movement of the lever 51.

A lever elevator 61 as an example of a moving member is disposed behind the paper feed tray TR2. The lever elevator 61 is supported by a rear frame U1a as an example of a frame of the printer unit U1. The lever elevator 61 includes a solenoid 62 as an example of a drive source. The solenoid 62 includes a plunger 62a as an example of a moving unit. The plunger 62 a is configured to be able to expand and contract in the vertical direction according to the driving of the solenoid 62.
A rod 63 as an example of a contact portion of the moving member is supported on the upper end of the plunger 62a. The rod 63 is formed in a rod shape extending forward. The rod 63 of the first embodiment is arranged in a state of entering between the lever main body 52 and the lower lever 54. Therefore, the rod 63 is configured to be able to contact and separate from the lower surface of the lever main body 52 and the upper surface of the lower lever 54.

Therefore, in the lever elevator 61 of the first embodiment, the rod 63 is lowered when the plunger 62a is contracted. In this case, the rod 63 pushes the upper surface of the lower lever 54 downward, and the lever 51 moves to the non-interlocking position. On the other hand, when the plunger 62a is extended, the rod 63 rises. In this case, the rod 63 pushes the lower surface of the lever main body 52 upward, and the lever 51 moves to the interlocking position.
In front of the lever elevator 61, a tray sensor SN2 as an example of a detection member of the housing portion is disposed. The tray sensor SN2 detects whether or not the paper feed tray TR2 is attached to the printer unit U1.

(Description of control unit)
In FIG. 4, a control signal is input to the lever elevator 61 from the controller C of the printer unit U1. The controller C has an input / output interface I / O for inputting / outputting signals to / from the outside. Further, the controller C has a read only memory (ROM) in which a program and information for performing necessary processing are stored. Further, the controller C has a random access memory (RAM) for temporarily storing necessary data. Further, the controller C includes a central processing unit (CPU) that performs processing according to a program stored in a ROM or the like. Therefore, the controller C of the first embodiment is configured by a small information processing apparatus, a so-called microcomputer. Therefore, the controller C can implement various functions by executing programs stored in the ROM or the like.

The controller C according to the first embodiment includes the following control units.
A jam determination unit C1 as an example of a determination unit determines whether or not a paper jam or a so-called jam has occurred in the relay path SH1a based on a signal input from the sensor SN1. Specifically, the jam determination unit C1 detects that the sensor SN1 does not detect the sheet S even if a preset time has elapsed after the sensor SN1 detects the sheet S. If S does not pass, it is determined that a jam has occurred in the relay path SH1a from the paper feed tray TR2. Further, the jam determining means C1 does not detect the sheet S even if a preset time has elapsed after the pickup roll Rp is driven. That is, the sheet S reaches the position of the sensor SN1 after any time. Even if not, it is determined that a jam has occurred in the relay path SH1a from the paper feed tray TR2.

  A tray determination unit C2 as an example of a storage unit position determination unit determines whether the paper feed tray TR2 has been pulled out based on a signal input from the tray sensor SN2. The tray determination unit C2 according to the first exemplary embodiment determines that the paper feed tray TR2 has been pulled out when the tray sensor SN2 does not detect the paper feed tray TR2.

  The lifting control means C3 as an example of the moving member control means controls the lever lifting device 61 based on the determination result of the jam determination means C1. The lift control means C3 of the first embodiment moves the lever 51 through the lever lift 61 when the jam determination means C1 determines that the sheet S remains on the relay path SH1a, that is, a jam has occurred. Move from the unlinked position to the linked position. Further, the lift control means C3 holds the lever 51 in the non-interlocking position via the lever lift 61 when no jam has occurred. Further, when the lever 51 is moved to the interlocking position and the tray discriminating means C2 determines that the paper feed tray TR2 is pulled out in the state where the lever 51 is moved to the interlocking position, the lift control means C2 of Embodiment 1 passes the lever lift 61. Then, the lever 51 is moved from the interlocking position to the non-interlocking position.

(Functions of the paper feed tray and the transport unit of the first embodiment)
In the copying machine U according to the first embodiment having the above-described configuration, when the sheet S in the upper right sheet feeding tray TR2 is used, the sheet is fed through the relay path SH1a.
In FIG. 4, in the state where no paper jam has occurred in the paper feed tray TR2 and the relay path SH1a and the paper feed tray TR2 is not pulled out, that is, in a normal state, the handle 23 is connected to the coil spring 32. It is held in the non-gripping position by force. Therefore, the latch 33 is hooked on the catch portion 34. Therefore, the paper feed tray TR2 is held in a state in which it cannot move in the front-rear direction, that is, is locked. At this time, the cam 36 that rotates integrally with the handle 23 is also moved to the upper non-pressurizing position. At this time, the float 41 does not receive a rearward force from the cam 36. Accordingly, the float 41 moves forward relative to the casing 38 under the force of the compression spring 43. When the float 41 moves forward, the tension roller 44 supported by the float 41 also moves forward. Therefore, the cable 57 is pulled forward. At this time, the spring force of the compression spring 43 is set stronger than that of the tension spring 58, and the lever elevator 61 is moved to the lowered position. Accordingly, the lever 51 is held at the non-interlocking position as shown in FIG. That is, the lever 51 is held in a state separated from the interlocking plate 2.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory view showing a state in which the handle is gripped from the state shown in FIG.
When the sheet S is replenished to the sheet feed tray TR2 or the sheet S is exchanged, the operator pulls out the sheet feed tray TR2. 4 and 6, when the paper feed tray TR2 is pulled out, first, the handle 23 is gripped by the operator. Therefore, the handle 23 moves to the gripping position shown in FIG. In FIG. 6, when the handle 23 moves to the gripping position, the contact plate 26 for latch pushes the link plate 28 downward, and the link plate 28 rotates downward. When the link plate 28 rotates downward, the link rod 29 moves upward while the coil spring 32 is elastically deformed. Accordingly, the claw portion 33d of the latch 33 rotates upward. Therefore, the claw portion 33 d of the latch 33 is detached from the hook portion 34. Therefore, the lock of the paper feed tray TR2 is released.
At this time, the cam 36 moves from the non-pressurization position shown in FIG. 4 to the lower pressurization position shown in FIG. 6 in conjunction with the handle 23. When the cam 36 moves to the pressurizing position, the float 41 is pushed by the cam 36. Therefore, the float 41 moves backward while the compression spring 43 is elastically deformed. At this time, the lever elevator 61 is held in the lowered position. Therefore, although the force of the tension spring 58 acts on the lever 51, the lower lever 54 is pushed by the rod 63, and the lever 51 is held at the non-interlocking position. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 6, the cable 57 is in a slack state.

FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of a state in which the paper feed tray is pulled out from the state shown in FIG.
6 and 7, when the paper feed tray TR2 is pulled out in a state where the paper feed tray TR2 is unlocked, the lever 51 moves forward together with the paper feed tray TR2. Therefore, the lever 51 moves away from the lift 61 of the lever, and finally the lower lever 54 is detached from the rod 63. When the lower lever 54 is detached from the rod 63, the lever 51 is moved from the non-interlocking position to the interlocking position by the force of the tension spring 58 as shown in FIG. However, at this time, the lever 51 has moved forward relative to the interlocking plate 2, and the lever 51 does not contact the interlocking portion rate 2.
Therefore, only the paper feed tray TR2 is pulled out, and the relay unit 1 is not pulled out.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory view when the operator releases the handle in the state shown in FIG.
In FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, when the sheet tray TR2 is pulled out and the sheet S is replenished and replaced, when the operator releases his hand from the handle 23, the force of the coil spring 32 causes a force as shown in FIG. The handle 23 returns to the non-gripping position. Therefore, the cam 36 also returns to the non-pressurized position. When the cam 36 returns to the non-pressurized position, the float 41 receives the force of the compression spring 43 and moves forward. Therefore, the cable 57 is pulled forward, and the lever 51 moves to the non-interlocking position.

When replenishment and replacement of the sheet S, inspection of the paper feed tray TR2 and the like are completed and the paper feed tray TR2 is inserted into the printer unit U1, the operator pushes the front surface of the cover 21 without holding the handle 23 to feed paper. The tray TR2 may be mounted. In this case, the paper feed tray TR2 moves rearward in the state shown in FIG. When the guided surface 33e of the latch 33 comes into contact with the catch portion 34, the latch 33 is guided upward. Accordingly, the link rod 29 moves upward while the coil spring 32 is elastically deformed, and the link plate 28 rotates. At this time, the link plate 28 only moves away from the latch contact plate 26, and the handle 23 does not rotate.
When the paper feed tray TR2 is inserted all the way, the claw portion 33d of the latch 33 reaches the rear end of the catch portion 34. Therefore, the latch 33 is hooked on the catch portion 34 by the force of the coil spring 32 and locked.
At this time, the lever 51 is moved to the non-interlocking position by the force of the springs 43 and 58. Therefore, when the paper feed tray TR2 is inserted all the way, the rod 63 enters between the lever main body 52 and the lower lever 54. Therefore, it returns to the state shown in FIG.

  When the operator holds the handle 23 when inserting the paper feed tray TR2 into the printer unit U1, the state shown in FIG. 7 is obtained. When the paper feed tray TR2 moves rearward from this state, the latch 33 passes through the catching portion 34 without contacting the catching portion 34. Further, the lever 51 is guided downward by the guide surface 53b coming into contact with the interlocking plate 2, and the lower lever 54 is guided downward by coming into contact with the rod 63. Therefore, when the paper feed tray TR2 is inserted all the way, the state shown in FIG. 6 is obtained. When the operator releases his hand from the handle 23, the state shown in FIG. 4 is obtained.

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of the paper feed tray when a jam occurs.
4 and 9, when it is determined that a jam has occurred in the paper feed tray TR2 or the relay path SH1a, the lever elevator 61 is operated to move the rod 63 upward. When the rod 63 moves upward, the lever 51 is pushed by the rod 63 and moves to the interlocking position shown in FIG. In FIG. 9, when the lever 51 moves to the interlocking position, the interlocking surface 53 a of the lever 51 faces the rear surface of the interlocking plate 2.
When the lever 51 moves to the interlocking position, the cable 57 is pulled backward. Accordingly, the float 41 moves backward via the tension roll 44. At this time, the handle 23 is held in the non-gripping position by the force of the coil spring 32, and the cam 36 is held in the non-pressurizing position. Therefore, the float 41 and the cam 36 are in a separated state.

FIG. 10 is an explanatory view showing a state in which the handle is grasped from the state shown in FIG.
FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of a state in which the paper feed tray is pulled forward from the state shown in FIG.
9 and 10, when the operator removes the jammed sheet S, when the handle 23 is grasped by the operator, the lock of the paper feed tray TR2 is released. At this time, the cam 36 moves to the pressurizing position in conjunction with the handle 23 and comes into contact with the float 41.
10 and 11, when the paper feed tray TR2 is pulled forward, the lever 51 moved to the interlocking position comes into contact with the interlocking plate 2. Accordingly, the relay unit 1 is pulled forward together with the paper feed tray TR2. When the sheet feed tray TR2 and the relay unit 1 are pulled out, the sheet S jammed in the sheet feed tray TR2 and the relay path SH1a can be removed.

In the configuration in which the paper feed tray and the relay unit are not pulled out in conjunction with each other when a jam occurs, if the sheet S is jammed across the paper feed tray and the relay unit, the portion to be pulled out and the portion remaining in the main body The sheet S may be torn between the two. The so-called sheet is in a guillotine state. When the sheet is torn, there is a problem that it is necessary to remove the sheet from the pulled-out portion and also to remove the portion remaining in the main body, or the torn sheet becomes small and difficult to remove. That is, there is a problem that the work of removing the sheet becomes troublesome.
On the other hand, in the copying machine U according to the first embodiment, the paper feed tray TR2 and the relay unit 1 are integrally pulled out in conjunction with each other. Therefore, the jammed sheet S is reduced from being in a guillotine state. Therefore, the operation of removing the sheet is facilitated as compared with the case where the sheet feeding tray and the relay unit are not linked.

When a jam occurs, if the relay unit 1 is pulled out without pulling out the paper feed tray TR2, the lock of the paper feed tray TR2 according to the first embodiment is not released unless the handle 23 is gripped. Therefore, even if the relay unit 1 is to be pulled out forward, the interlocking plate 2 comes into contact with the rear wall 14 of the paper feed tray TR2 and cannot be pulled out forward. Therefore, it is prevented that only the relay unit 1 is pulled out and the jammed sheet S enters a guillotine state.
Further, even if the relay unit 1 is to be pulled out forward after the paper feed tray TR2 is unlocked and pulled out slightly forward, the interlocking plate 2 contacts the rear wall 14. Therefore, the relay unit 1 moves forward integrally with the paper feed tray TR2. Therefore, also in this case, the jammed sheet S is prevented from being in a guillotine state.

  10 and 11, in the copying machine U according to the first embodiment, when the tray sensor SN2 detects that the paper feed tray TR2 has been pulled forward, the lever elevator 61 moves to the lowered position. When the paper feed tray TR2 and the relay unit 1 are inserted into the printer unit U1, the rear wall 14 contacts the interlocking plate 2 when the paper feed tray TR2 moves rearward. Therefore, the paper feed tray TR2 and the relay unit 1 are inserted integrally. At this time, the lever elevator 61 is lowered, and the latch 33 and the lever 51 are moved as in the case where only the paper feed tray TR2 is inserted. Therefore, the state finally returns to the state shown in FIG.

FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram of the paper feed tray and the conveyance unit according to the second embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 4 according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 13 is an explanatory view of main parts of the interlocking member and the moving member of the second embodiment.
In the description of the second embodiment, components corresponding to those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.
The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the following points, but is configured in the same manner as the first embodiment in other points.
In FIG. 12, in the paper feed tray TR2 of the second embodiment, the lever 51 as an example of the interlocking member in the first embodiment, the lever elevator 61 as an example of the moving member, and the second interlocking member 36 + 37 + 57 + 58 are omitted. .

In the paper feed tray TR2 of the second embodiment, a through path 101 as an example of a support portion of the interlocking member is formed at the front end portion of the relay unit 1. In the through passage 101, a lifting rod 102 as an example of an interlocking member is disposed. 12 and 13, the lifting rod 102 has a small diameter portion 102 a at the upper end.
In FIG. 12, the front wall 13 of the paper feed tray TR2 is formed with a recess 103 as an example of a contact portion of the interlocking member at a position corresponding to the lower side of the through path 101.
Behind the lifting rod 102 is a rod lifting machine 104 as an example of a moving member. The rod elevator 104 has a solenoid 106 as an example of a drive source. The plunger 106a of the solenoid 106 extends in the vertical direction. The plunger 106 a can be expanded and contracted in the vertical direction according to the operation of the solenoid 106.

  A holder 107 as an example of a holding portion for the interlocking member is supported at the lower end of the plunger 106a. The holder 107 has a bifurcated sandwiching portion 107a having a width corresponding to the small diameter portion 102a at the front end. Therefore, the holder 107 according to the first embodiment can hold the lifting rod 102 in a state where the small diameter portion 102 a of the lifting rod 102 is sandwiched by the sandwiching portion 107 a, and the lifting rod 102 is forward of the holder 107. It is configured to be relatively movable.

(Description of control unit)
In FIG. 12, a control signal is input to the rod elevator 104 from the controller C of the printer unit U1.
The controller C ′ of the second embodiment has a tray determination means C2 ′ and a lift control means C3 ′ different from the tray determination means C2 and the lift control means C3, compared to the controller C of the first embodiment.
The tray determination unit C2 ′ according to the second exemplary embodiment determines whether or not the paper feed tray TR2 has been inserted based on a signal input from the tray sensor SN2. When the tray sensor SN2 detects that the paper feed tray TR2 is not detected, the tray discrimination means C2 ′ according to the second embodiment determines that the paper feed tray TR2 has been inserted.

  The lifting control means C3 ′ as an example of the moving member control means of the second embodiment controls the rod elevator 104 based on the determination result of the jam determination means C1. When it is determined that a jam has occurred, the lifting / lowering control means C3 'of the second embodiment shows the lifting / lowering rod 102 by the broken line in FIG. 12 from the non-interlocking position indicated by the solid line in FIG. Move to the interlock position. Further, the lifting control means C3 ′ holds the lifting rod 102 in the non-interlocking position via the rod lifting device 104 when a jam has not occurred. Further, when the tray discriminating means C2 ′ determines that the paper feed tray TR2 has been inserted, the lift control means C3 ′ of the second embodiment controls the rod elevator 104 to move the lift rod 102 from the interlock position. Move to the interlock position.

(Functions of the paper feed tray and the transport unit of the second embodiment)
In the copying machine U according to the second embodiment having the above-described configuration, the paper feed tray TR2 and the relay path SH1a are not jammed, and the paper feed tray TR2 is not pulled out, that is, a normal state. Then, the elevating rod 104 is held at the non-interlocking position.
When the jam does not occur and the sheet S is replenished to the sheet feeding tray TR2, the lifting rod 104 is held at the non-interlocking position. Therefore, when the sheet S is replenished to the paper feed tray TR2, the relay unit 1 is not interlocked when the handle 23 is gripped and the paper feed tray TR2 is pulled out.

In the copying machine U according to the second embodiment, when a paper jam occurs in the paper feed tray TR2 and the relay path SH1a, the lifting rod 104 moves to the interlocking position. In a state where the lifting rod 104 is moved to the interlocking position, when the paper feed tray TR2 is pulled out, the relay unit 1 is pulled out integrally in conjunction. When the paper feed tray TR2 moves forward, the lifting rod 102 moves forward relative to the holder 107. That is, the elevating rod 102 is pulled out integrally with the paper feed tray TR2 and the relay unit 1 so that the small diameter portion 102a of the elevating rod 102 is removed from the sandwiching portion 107a of the holder 107.
Further, when the jammed sheet S is removed and the paper feed tray TR2 and the relay unit 1 are mounted on the copying machine U, the small diameter portion 102a of the lifting rod 102 fits into the pinching portion 107a of the holder 107. Then, the holder 107 moves to the non-interlocking position, and the connection and interlocking between the paper feed tray, TR2, and the relay unit 1 is released.

(Example of change)
As mentioned above, although the Example of this invention was explained in full detail, this invention is not limited to the said Example, A various change is made in the range of the summary of this invention described in the claim. Is possible. Modification examples (H01) to (H03) of the present invention are exemplified below.
(H01) In each of the above embodiments, the copying machine U is illustrated as an example of the image forming apparatus, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the present invention can be applied to a printer as an example of an image forming apparatus, a FAX, or a multifunction machine having a plurality of functions. Further, the present invention is not limited to a single color image forming apparatus, and can be applied to a multicolor image forming apparatus. Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the transfer belt B that holds the sheet S on the surface, and can be applied to a configuration that uses an intermediate transfer belt.

(H02) In the above embodiment, the solenoid is exemplified as the drive source for the elevators 61 and 104, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it is possible to use a motor and a gear, or use a pinion and a rack. Moreover, although the structure which raises / lowers the rod 63 up and down in Example 1 was illustrated, it is not limited to this, It can also be set as the structure which moves the lever 52 by rotating according to the structure of a drive source. .
(H03) In the above embodiment, the configuration of the latch 33, the lever 51, the lifting rod 102, the second interlocking member 36 + 37 + 57 + 58, the holder 107, and the like are illustrated. However, the position, shape, size, cable length, etc. Etc. are not limited to the illustrated configuration. For example, the position in the front-rear direction and the left-right direction can be changed, and the specific shape and size of the latch 33 and the like can be arbitrarily changed according to the design, specifications, and the like.

1 ... transport section,
2 ... interlocked part,
23 ... gripping part,
36 ... movable part,
36 + 37 + 57 + 58 ... the second interlocking member,
38 ... Fixing part,
43 ... second pressing member,
44 ... string contact portion,
51. Interlocking member,
54 ... contact part for movement,
57 ... a string-like member,
58 ... first pressing member,
61 ... a moving member,
C1 ... discrimination means,
C3: Control means for the moving member,
S ... medium,
TR2: accommodating section,
U: Image forming apparatus,
U1... Main body of the image forming apparatus.

Claims (2)

A storage unit for storing a medium, wherein the storage unit is supported so as to be able to enter and exit the main body of the image forming apparatus;
A transport unit that transports a medium stored in the storage unit, the transport unit supported so as to be able to enter and exit the main body of the image forming apparatus;
A linking member that interlocks the drawer of the transport unit with the drawer of the storage unit from the main body of the image forming apparatus, the first position for interlocking the drawer of the transport unit with the drawer of the storage unit; The interlocking member movable between a second position where the drawer of the transport unit is not interlocked with the drawer of the
A moving member that moves the interlocking member between the first position and the second position;
A discriminating means for discriminating whether or not the medium remains in the transport section;
When the determination unit determines that the medium remains in the transport unit, the interlock member is moved from the second position to the first position via the moving member, and the medium is moved to the transport unit. If the moving member is not determined to remain, the moving member control means for holding the interlocking member in the second position ;
Provided in the transport section, the interlocking member contacts the interlocking member when moved to the first position, and is separated from the interlocking member when the interlocking member moves to the second position. The interlocked part,
In a state where the housing portion is mounted on the main body of the image forming apparatus, the moving member contacts the moving member to hold the interlocking member in the second position, and the housing portion is detached from the main body of the image forming apparatus. When the interlocking member passes through the position of the interlocked portion, the interlocking member having a moving contact portion that is separated from the moving member;
A gripping portion supported by the housing portion so as to be movable between a gripping position and a non-gripping position, and capable of being gripped by an operator when pulling out the housing portion;
A second interlocking member that applies a force to the interlocking member to move the interlocking member from the second position toward the first position when the gripper moves to the gripping position; In a state where the interlocking member is moved to the first position by the moving member, the interlocking member is held at the first position, and the interlocking member is moved to the first position by the moving member. Then, when the moving contact portion is separated from the moving member, the second interlocking member that moves the interlocking member to the first position;
An image forming apparatus comprising: A first pushing member that pushes the interlocking member toward the first position; a string-like member having one end supported by the interlocking member; and the other end of the string-like member supported and supported by the housing portion The string-like member is stretched by pressing the string-fixed part, the string-contacting part that is supported so as to be movable with respect to the fixed part and that contacts the string-like member, and the string contact member. A second push that exerts a force pushing the interlocking member toward the second position and the first pushing member exerts a force greater than a force pushing the interlocking member toward the first position. A movable part that is connected to the gripping part, is movable with the gripping part and contacts the contact part of the string, and the tension of the string-like member is increased when the gripping part moves to the gripping position. The movable part that moves the contact part of the string in a decreasing direction; It said second interlocking member having,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising:

Images