JP6295685B2 - Cartridge and cartridge packaging - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a cartridge mounted on an image forming apparatus employing an electrophotographic system, and a package for the cartridge.

  2. Description of the Related Art As a cartridge mounted on an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, a developing cartridge that includes a developing roller that contains a developer and carries the developer is known.

  When shipping and transporting such a developing cartridge, a blade pressing member that covers the developing roller is attached to the developing cartridge while pressing the layer thickness regulating blade that is in contact with the developing roller, and is further fixed in the packing box while being fixed with a buffer member. It has been proposed to pack in (for example, see Patent Document 1 below).

JP2013-73087A

  In Patent Document 1, since packing is performed using a plurality of members such as a blade pressing member and a buffering member, it is difficult to reduce the packing space per cartridge. If the packing space per cartridge increases, the transportation cost may increase.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a cartridge capable of reducing the size of the packing space and a package for the cartridge.

(1) In order to achieve the above object, a cartridge of the present invention is a cartridge configured to be used in an image forming apparatus main body, and includes a developing roller configured to carry a developer, and a developing roller A first plane portion extending in the axial direction, and a frame having a second plane portion arranged on the same side as the first plane portion in the first orthogonal direction orthogonal to the axis direction and parallel to the first plane portion. .

  The frame is disposed on the first plane portion and has a first engagement portion having a first structure, and the frame is disposed on the second plane portion and has a structure different from the first structure and is engageable with the first structure. And a second engaging portion having a second structure.

  According to such a configuration, the first engagement portion of one cartridge is engaged with the second engagement portion of another cartridge, and the second engagement portion of one cartridge is engaged with the first engagement portion of the other cartridge. By engaging with the joint portion, one cartridge and the other cartridge can be fixed to each other.

  Therefore, if two cartridges fixed to each other are packed together, the packing space per cartridge can be reduced compared to the case where each of the two cartridges is individually packed using a buffer member or the like. Can do.

  Further, according to such a configuration, one cartridge includes both the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion.

Thereby, cartridges having the same shape can be easily combined.
(2) The first engaging portion may be disposed at one end in the axial direction of the frame. The second engaging portion may be disposed at the other end portion in the axial direction of the frame.

  According to such a configuration, one cartridge and another cartridge can be combined with each other at both ends in the axial direction.

Therefore, the two cartridges can be stably fixed.
(3) The second engagement portion may be disposed adjacent to the first engagement portion at one end in the second orthogonal direction orthogonal to both the axial direction and the first orthogonal direction.

  According to such a configuration, one cartridge and another cartridge can be combined with each other at one end in the axial direction.

Therefore, the two cartridges can be more stably fixed at least at one end in the axial direction.
(4) The frame is disposed on the side opposite to the first end in the second orthogonal direction, and the first end disposed adjacent to the developing roller in the second orthogonal direction orthogonal to both the axial direction and the first orthogonal direction. And a second end. The developing roller may be arranged on the second end side in the second orthogonal direction with respect to a virtual surface extending in the first orthogonal direction and passing through the first end.

  According to such a configuration, the developing roller is disposed closer to the second end than the first end in the second orthogonal direction.

  Therefore, when the cartridge is packed, the developing roller can be protected on the first end side in the second orthogonal direction.

As a result, the cartridge can be packed while suppressing damage to the developing roller without using a member for protecting the developing roller.
(5) The first engagement portion may include a plurality of protrusions. The 2nd engaging part may be provided with the crevice constituted so that a plurality of projection parts may fit.

According to such a configuration, one cartridge and another cartridge can be combined with each other with a simple configuration in which a plurality of protrusions and recesses are engaged.
(6) A cartridge packaging body of the present invention includes the above cartridge and a housing member configured to house a plurality of cartridges. The first engaging portion of one cartridge among the plurality of cartridges accommodated in the accommodating member is engaged with the second engaging portion of the other cartridge among the plurality of cartridges.

  According to such a configuration, two cartridges fixed to each other can be collectively accommodated in the accommodating member, and the packaging space per cartridge can be reduced.

As a result, an increase in transportation cost can be suppressed.
(7) The developing roller of one cartridge of each of the plurality of cartridges may be spaced apart from the other cartridge of each of the plurality of cartridges and the housing member.

  According to such a configuration, one of the two cartridges is accommodated in the accommodating member in a state where the developing roller does not contact the other cartridge or the accommodating member.

  Therefore, even when there is no member for protecting the developing roller, the developing roller can be prevented from being damaged due to contact with the other cartridge or the housing member.

As a result, the cartridge can be packed while suppressing damage to the developing roller without using a member for protecting the developing roller.
(8) The developing roller of one cartridge may face the other end of the other cartridge in the second orthogonal direction.

According to such a configuration, the developing roller of one cartridge can be protected by the other end of the other cartridge.
(9) The developing roller of one cartridge may face the developing roller of another cartridge.

  According to such a configuration, the developing roller of one cartridge can be protected by the developing roller of another cartridge.

  According to the cartridge of the present invention, the package can be reduced in size.

  In addition, according to the cartridge packaging body of the present invention, since the size is reduced, an increase in transportation cost can be suppressed.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of the developing cartridge of the present invention viewed from the left front side. FIG. 1B is a central sectional view of the developing cartridge shown in FIG. 1A. FIG. 2 is a central sectional view of the printer 1 to which the developing cartridge shown in FIG. 1A is mounted. FIG. 3 is an explanatory view for explaining a developer cartridge package as a first embodiment of the cartridge package of the present invention, in which two developer cartridges shown in FIG. 1A are combined and accommodated in a package box. Show. FIG. 4 is an explanatory view for explaining a process of combining two developing cartridges shown in FIG. 1A. One developing cartridge is arranged on one developing cartridge, and the left end portion thereof is arranged on the right side. A state in which the right end portion is disposed so that the right end portion is disposed on the left side is shown. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a process of combining two developing cartridges following FIG. 4, in which another developing cartridge is overlaid on one developing cartridge and the first engagement of one developing cartridge is performed. 8 shows a state in which the boss of this part is fitted in the recess of the second engaging part of another developing cartridge. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA in FIG. FIG. 7 is a central sectional view of the two developing cartridges shown in FIG. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the developing cartridge according to the second embodiment viewed from the left front. FIG. 9 is an explanatory view for explaining a developer cartridge package as a second embodiment of the cartridge package of the present invention, in which two developer cartridges shown in FIG. 8 are combined and accommodated in a package box. Show. FIG. 10 is an explanatory view for explaining a process of combining two developing cartridges shown in FIG. 8. One developing cartridge is placed on one developing cartridge, and the rear end portion is arranged forward, and the front end thereof is shown. It shows a state in which the part is placed upside down so that the part is arranged rearward. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a process of combining two developing cartridges following FIG. 10, in which another developing cartridge is overlaid on one developing cartridge and the first engagement of one developing cartridge is performed. 8 shows a state in which the boss of this part is fitted in the recess of the second engaging part of another developing cartridge. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line BB in FIG.

1. Outline of Developing Cartridge As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, a developing cartridge 1 as an example of the cartridge includes a developing roller 2, a supply roller 3, a layer thickness regulating blade 4, and a toner containing portion 5. .

  In the following description, when referring to the direction of the developing cartridge 1, the state in which the developing cartridge 1 is placed horizontally is used as a reference. Specifically, the direction arrow in FIG. 1A is used as a reference. The left-right direction is an example of the axial direction. The vertical direction is an example of a first orthogonal direction. The front-rear direction is an example of the second orthogonal direction.

  The developing roller 2 is rotatably supported at the rear end portion of the developing cartridge 1. The developing roller 2 includes a developing roller shaft 2A and a developing roller body 2B.

  The developing roller shaft 2A has a substantially cylindrical shape. The developing roller shaft 2A extends in the left-right direction. The developing roller shaft 2A is made of metal.

  The developing roller body 2B has a substantially cylindrical shape. The developing roller body 2B extends in the left-right direction. The developing roller body 2B is made of conductive rubber. The developing roller body 2B does not cover the left and right ends of the developing roller shaft 2A, but covers the substantially horizontal center of the developing roller shaft 2A.

  The supply roller 3 is rotatably supported by the developing cartridge 1 at the front lower side of the developing roller 2. The supply roller 3 has a substantially cylindrical shape extending in the left-right direction. The supply roller 3 is in contact with the front lower end portion of the developing roller main body 2B.

  The layer thickness regulating blade 4 is disposed on the front upper side of the developing roller 2. The layer thickness regulating blade 4 is in contact with the front end portion of the developing roller body 2B.

The toner container 5 is disposed in front of the supply roller 3 and the layer thickness regulating blade 4. The toner storage unit 5 is configured to store toner as an example of a developer.
2. As shown in FIG. 2, the printer 11 is a horizontal type direct tandem type color printer.

  In the following description, when referring to the direction of the printer 11, the state in which the printer 11 is placed horizontally is used as the upper and lower reference. That is, in FIG. 2, the upper side of the drawing is the upper side, and the lower side of the drawing is the lower side. Further, the right side of the drawing is the front and the left side of the drawing is the back. In addition, when the printer 11 is viewed from the front, the left and right reference is used. That is, the front side of the page is the left side and the back side of the page is the right side.

  The printer 11 includes a main body casing 12 as an example of an image forming apparatus main body, a plurality of process cartridges 13, a plurality of LED units 14, a transfer unit 15, and a fixing unit 16.

  The main body casing 12 has a substantially box shape. The main casing 12 has an opening 17, a top cover 18, and a paper feed tray 19.

  The opening 17 is disposed at the upper end of the main casing 12. The opening 17 communicates the inside and outside of the main casing 12 in the vertical direction so as to allow passage of the plurality of process cartridges 13.

  The top cover 18 is disposed at the upper end portion of the main body casing 12. The top cover 18 has a substantially flat plate shape extending in the front-rear direction. The top cover 18 is swingably supported by the rear wall of the main casing 12 at the rear end. The top cover 18 opens and closes the opening 17 by swinging up and down with its rear end as a fulcrum, as indicated by phantom lines in FIG. The top cover 18 has a paper discharge tray 20.

  The paper discharge tray 20 is disposed approximately at the center of the top cover 18 in the front-rear direction. The paper discharge tray 20 is recessed downward from the top surface of the top cover 18 so that the paper P is placed thereon.

  The paper feed tray 19 is disposed at the bottom of the main body casing 12. The paper feed tray 19 is configured to accommodate the paper P.

  Each of the plurality of process cartridges 13 corresponds to one of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, and is arranged in parallel in the main body casing 12 at intervals in the front-rear direction. Each of the plurality of process cartridges 13 is configured to be attached to or detached from the main body casing 12 through the opening 17. Each of the plurality of process cartridges 13 includes a drum cartridge 21 and the developing cartridge 1 described above.

  The drum cartridge 21 includes a photosensitive drum 22 and a scorotron charger 23.

  The photosensitive drum 22 has a substantially cylindrical shape extending in the left-right direction. The photosensitive drum 22 and the drum cartridge 21 are rotatably supported at the rear lower end portion.

  The scorotron charger 23 is disposed opposite to the rear upper part of the photosensitive drum 22 with an interval.

  The developing cartridge 1 is mounted on the drum cartridge 21 so that the rear end of the developing cartridge 1 faces the rear lower side at the front upper side of the photosensitive drum 22. The developing roller 2 of the developing cartridge 1 is in contact with the front upper end portion of the photosensitive drum 22. The developing cartridge 1 is configured to be attached to or detached from the drum cartridge 21.

  Each of the plurality of LED units 14 is supported by the top cover 18 so as to be disposed above the respective photosensitive drums 22 of the plurality of process cartridges 13.

  The transfer unit 15 is disposed below each of the plurality of process cartridges 13. The transfer unit 15 includes a driving roller 24, a driven roller 25, a conveyance belt 26, and a plurality of transfer rollers 27.

  The driving roller 24 is rotatably supported at the rear end portion of the transfer unit 15.

  The driven roller 25 is rotatably supported at the front end portion of the transfer unit 15.

  The conveyor belt 26 is looped around the driving roller 24 and the driven roller 25. The upper part of the conveyor belt 26 is in contact with the lower end portions of the plurality of photosensitive drums 22. The transport belt 26 rotates around so that the upper portion thereof moves from the front toward the rear by the driving of the driving roller 24 and the driven of the driven roller 25.

  Each of the plurality of transfer rollers 27 is disposed below each of the plurality of photosensitive drums 22. Each of the plurality of transfer rollers 27 is in contact with the lower surface of the upper portion of the conveyor belt 26.

  The fixing unit 16 is disposed behind the transfer unit 15. The fixing unit 16 includes a heating roller 28 and a pressure roller 29 that is in contact with the rear lower end portion of the heating roller 28.

  When the printer 11 starts an image forming operation, the scorotron charger 23 uniformly charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 22. Thereafter, the LED unit 14 exposes the surface of the photosensitive drum 22. Thereby, an electrostatic latent image based on the image data is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 22.

  The supply roller 3 supplies the toner in the developing cartridge 1 to the developing roller 2. At this time, the toner is frictionally charged positively between the developing roller 2 and the supply roller 3 and is carried on the developing roller 2.

  The developing roller 2 supplies the carried toner to the electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 22. As a result, the toner image is carried on the surface of the photosensitive drum 22.

  The paper P is transported forward and upward from the paper feed tray 19 by the rotation of various rollers, and then U-turns rearward and upward, with the frontmost photosensitive drum 22 and transport belt 26 one by one at a predetermined timing. Paper is fed during Thereafter, the paper P is transported from the front to the rear by the transport belt 26. The toner image on the photosensitive drum 22 is transferred to the paper P when the paper P passes between the photosensitive drum 22 and the transfer roller 27.

Thereafter, the paper P is heated and pressed when it passes between the heating roller 28 and the pressure roller 29. At this time, the toner image on the paper P is thermally fixed to the paper P. Thereafter, the paper P is discharged to the paper discharge tray 20.
3. Details of Developing Cartridge As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the developing cartridge 1 includes a developing housing 31, a drive unit 43, and a power feeding unit 44. The developing housing 31, the driving unit 43, and the power feeding unit 44 constitute a frame of the developing cartridge 1.

  The developing case 31 has a substantially rectangular tube shape extending in the left-right direction and having a rear end portion released. The developing case 31 includes a pair of side walls 37, a lower wall 38, a front wall 39, and an upper wall 40.

  Each of the pair of side walls 37 is disposed at each of both end portions of the developing case 31 in the left-right direction. Each of the pair of side walls 37 has a substantially rectangular flat plate shape in side view extending in the front-rear direction. Each of the pair of side walls 37 rotatably supports both end portions in the left-right direction of the developing roller shaft 2A at the rear end portion. Each rear end edge 37A of the pair of side walls 37 is inclined backward as it goes downward. The lower end portion of the rear end edge 37A of each of the pair of side walls 37 is located behind the rear end portion of the developing roller body 2B. The upper end portions of the rear end edges 37A of the pair of side walls 37 are positioned in front of the rear end portions of the developing roller main body 2B. The rear upper end portion of the developing roller main body 2B protrudes rearward and upward from the substantially vertical center of the rear edge 37A of each of the pair of side walls 37 in a side view.

  The lower wall 38 is disposed at the lower end of the developing case 31. Each of the left and right ends of the lower wall 38 is continuous with the lower ends of the pair of side walls 37. The lower wall 38 includes a first portion 38A, a second portion 38B, and a third portion 38C.

  The first portion 38 </ b> A is disposed in the front half of the lower wall 38. The first portion 38A has a substantially V-shaped cross-sectional view in which a substantially center in the front-rear direction is recessed downward.

  The second portion 38B is disposed behind the first portion 38A. The second portion 38B has a substantially arc shape in sectional view. The second portion 38B continues to the rear end of the first portion 38A and extends rearward so as to curve along the outer peripheral surface of the supply roller 3.

  The third portion 38C is disposed behind the second portion 38B. The third portion 38C has a substantially linear shape in sectional view. The third portion 38C continues to the rear end portion of the second portion 38B and extends rearward below the developing roller 2. The rear end portion 38D of the third portion 38C is disposed behind the rear end portion of the developing roller main body 2B. The rear end portion 38D of the third portion 38C is an example of a first end portion.

  The front wall 39 is disposed at the front end of the developing case 31. The front wall 39 has a substantially flat plate shape extending continuously upward from the front end portion of the lower wall 38. Each of the left and right end portions of the front wall 39 is continuous with the respective front end portions of the pair of side walls 37. The front wall 39 has a grip portion 42 as an example of a second end portion.

  The grip portion 42 has a substantially flat plate shape that protrudes forward from the center in the left-right direction of the upper end portion of the front wall 39 and extends in the left-right direction.

  The upper wall 40 is disposed at the upper end portion of the developing case 31. The upper wall 40 has a substantially flat plate shape extending in the left-right direction. The front end portion of the upper wall 40 is continuous with the upper end portion of the front wall 39. Each of the left and right end portions of the upper wall 40 is continuous with the respective upper end portions of the pair of side walls 37. The upper surface 40A at the right end of the upper wall 40 is a flat surface extending in the front-rear direction and the left-right direction. The upper surface 40A at the right end portion of the upper wall 40 is an example of a first plane portion. The upper surface 40B at the left end of the upper wall 40 is a flat surface that is parallel to the upper surface 40A at the right end of the upper wall 40 and extends in the front-rear direction and the left-right direction. The upper surface 40B of the left end portion of the upper wall 40 is an example of a second flat portion. The rear end portion of the upper wall 40 is disposed in front of the developing roller 2 and supports the layer thickness regulating blade 4. The upper wall 40 includes a first engagement portion 33 and a second engagement portion 32.

  The first engaging portion 33 is disposed at the left end portion of the upper wall 40 of the developing housing 31. The first engaging portion 33 includes a pedestal 36 and a boss 35 as an example of a plurality of protrusions.

  The pedestal 36 has a substantially prismatic shape extending upward from the upper surface 40B of the left end portion of the upper wall 40. The lateral dimension of the pedestal 36 is substantially the same as the lateral dimension of the second engaging portion 32. The longitudinal dimension of the pedestal 36 is substantially the same as the longitudinal dimension of the second engaging portion 32.

  Each of the plurality of bosses 35 has a substantially cylindrical shape protruding upward from the upper surface of the pedestal 36. Each of the plurality of bosses 35 is disposed at four corners of the pedestal 36. A structure having a plurality of bosses 35 is an example of the first structure.

  The second engaging portion 32 is disposed at the right end portion of the upper wall 40 of the developing housing 31. The second engaging portion 32 has a substantially prismatic shape extending upward from the upper surface 40A of the right end portion of the upper wall 40. The second engagement portion 32 has a recess 34.

  The recess 34 is recessed downward from the upper surface of the second engagement portion 32. The recess 34 has a substantially rectangular shape in plan view. The structure having the recess 34 is an example of the second structure.

  The drive unit 43 is supported on the left end portion of the developing case 31. The drive unit 43 has a substantially rectangular tube shape extending in the left-right direction. The drive unit 43 includes a protrusion 43A and a coupling member 43B.

  The protruding portion 43A has a substantially cylindrical shape that protrudes to the left from the left surface at the approximate center in the front-rear direction of the driving portion 43.

  The coupling member 43B is disposed in the protruding portion 43A. The coupling member 43B has a substantially cylindrical shape extending in the left-right direction. The coupling member 43B is configured to receive a driving force from the main body casing 12 and rotate. The driving force input to the coupling member 43B is transmitted to the developing roller 2 and the supply roller 3 through a gear train (not shown) in the driving unit 43.

  The power feeding unit 44 is supported at the right end of the developing case 31. The power feeding unit 44 has a substantially rectangular tube shape extending in the left-right direction. The power feeding unit 44 includes a protruding portion 44A and an electrode member 44B.

  The protruding portion 44 </ b> A has a substantially rectangular tube shape that is long in the front-rear direction and protrudes leftward from the left surface of the power feeding portion 44.

The electrode member 44B is disposed in the middle of the projecting portion 44A in the front-rear direction. The electrode member 44B has a substantially cylindrical shape extending in the left-right direction. The electrode member 44B is configured to receive power from the main body casing 12. The electric power input to the electrode member 44B is supplied to the developing roller 2 and the supply roller 3.
4). Packaging of Developer Cartridge Hereinafter, a method for packing the developer cartridge 1 will be described.

  When the developer cartridge 1 is shipped from the manufacturer, the developer cartridge 1 is mounted with a developing roller cover for protecting the developing roller 2 or sealed with a package made of a moisture-proof sheet for preventing the toner from absorbing moisture. And it is packed with a buffer member.

  The developing cartridge 1 is mounted on the main casing 12 after being unpacked by the user.

  Thereafter, when the developing cartridge 1 reaches the replacement life, the developing cartridge 1 is collected to the manufacturer.

  At this time, as shown in FIG. 3, the operator combines a plurality of, specifically two, developing cartridges 1 separated from the main body casing 12 and packs them in a packing box 41 as an example of one housing member. To do.

  In order to combine the two developing cartridges 1, first, as shown in FIG. 4, the operator places the other developing cartridge 1 upside down on the one developing cartridge 1.

  At this time, the operator places the driving unit 43 of the upper developing cartridge 1 above the power feeding unit 44 of the lower developing cartridge 1 and the power feeding unit 44 of the upper developing cartridge 1 moves to the driving unit of the lower developing cartridge 1. Turn over so that it is positioned above 43.

  Then, the second engaging portion 32 of the upper developing cartridge 1 is positioned above the first engaging portion 33 of the lower developing cartridge 1. The first engaging portion 33 of the upper developing cartridge 1 is positioned above the second engaging portion 32 of the lower developing cartridge 1.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 5, the operator places the upper developing cartridge 1 on the lower developing cartridge 1.

  At this time, the operator fits the boss 35 of the first engaging portion 33 of the lower developing cartridge 1 into the concave portion 34 of the second engaging portion 32 of the upper developing cartridge 1 as shown in FIG. The boss 35 of the first engaging portion 33 of the upper developing cartridge 1 is fitted into the recess 34 of the second engaging portion 32 of the lower developing cartridge 1.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 7, the positions of the two developing cartridges 1 are fixed to each other such that the developing rollers 2 face each other with a gap therebetween. Thereby, the two developing cartridges 1 are combined.

  At this time, since the rear end portion 38D of the lower wall 38 of the developing housing 31 protrudes rearward from the rear end portion of the developing roller 2, each developing roller 2 of the two developing cartridges 1 has two developing cartridges. It is located in front of a virtual plane L that passes through the rear end 38D of the lower wall 38 of each of the developing housings 31 and extends in the vertical direction.

  Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 3, the operator stores the developer cartridge 1 in the packaging box 41 so that the rear end portion of the developer cartridge 1 faces downward in a state where the two developer cartridges 1 are combined.

  Then, the rear end portion 38D of the lower wall 38 of the developing housing 31 of each of the two developing cartridges 1 comes into contact with the bottom wall of the packing box 41, and the developing roller 2 of each of the two developing cartridges 1 It is located above the bottom wall at a distance.

Thereafter, when the upper end portion of the packaging box 41 is closed with an upper cover (not shown), the packaging of the two developing cartridges 1 is completed, and the packaging body of the developing cartridge 1 is completed.
5. Operation and Effect (1) According to the developing cartridge 1, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the second engaging portion 32 of one developing cartridge 1 is replaced with the first engaging portion 33 of another developing cartridge 1. And engaging the first engaging portion 33 of one developing cartridge 1 with the second engaging portion 32 of the other developing cartridge 1, thereby developing one developing cartridge 1 and another developing cartridge 1. The cartridge 1 can be fixed to each other.

  Therefore, if the two developing cartridges 1 fixed to each other are packed together, the packing space per one developing cartridge 1 is smaller than the case where each of the two developing cartridges 1 is individually packed using a buffer member or the like. Can be miniaturized.

  Further, according to such a configuration, the developing cartridge 1 includes both the second engaging portion 32 and the first engaging portion 33.

Thereby, the developing cartridges 1 having the same shape can be easily combined.
(2) According to the developing cartridge 1, as shown in FIG. 6, one developing cartridge 1 and another developing cartridge 1 can be combined with each other at both ends in the left-right direction.

Therefore, the two developing cartridges 1 can be fixed stably.
(3) According to the developing cartridge 1, as shown in FIG. 7, the developing roller 2 is disposed in front of the virtual surface L that extends in the vertical direction through the rear end portion 38D of the lower wall 38 of the developing cartridge 1. ing.

  Therefore, when the developing cartridge 1 is packed, the developing roller 2 can be protected by the rear end portion 38D of the lower wall 38 of the developing cartridge 1.

As a result, the developing cartridge 1 can be packed while suppressing damage to the developing roller 2 without using a member for protecting the developing roller 2.
(4) According to the developing cartridge 1, the second engaging portion 32 includes four bosses 35 as shown in FIG. The first engagement portion 33 includes a recess 34 configured to fit the four bosses 35.

Therefore, as shown in FIG. 6, one developer cartridge 1 and another developer cartridge 1 can be combined with each other with a simple configuration in which the four bosses 35 and the recesses 34 are engaged.
(5) According to the packaging body of the developing cartridge 1, as shown in FIG. 3, the two developing cartridges 1 fixed to each other can be collectively stored in the packaging box 41. The packaging space can be reduced in size.

As a result, an increase in transportation cost can be suppressed.
(6) According to the package of the developing cartridge 1, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 7, the developing roller 2 of one developing cartridge 1 of the two developing cartridges 1 combined with each other The developing cartridge 1 and the packaging box 41 are spaced apart.

  That is, one of the two developing cartridges 1 is accommodated in the packing box 41 in a state where the developing roller 2 does not contact the other developing cartridge 1 or the packing box 41.

  Therefore, even when there is no member for protecting the developing roller 2, it is possible to prevent the developing roller 2 from being damaged due to contact with another developing cartridge 1 or the packing box 41.

As a result, the developing cartridge 1 can be packed while suppressing damage to the developing roller 2 without using a member for protecting the developing roller 2.
(7) According to the package of the developing cartridge 1, the developing roller 2 of one developing cartridge 1 faces the developing roller 2 of the other developing cartridge 1 as shown in FIG.

Therefore, the developing roller 2 of one developing cartridge 1 can be protected by the developing roller 2 of the other developing cartridge 1.
6). Second Embodiment Hereinafter, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the second embodiment, members similar to those in the first embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.
(1) Outline of Second Embodiment In the above-described first embodiment, the developing cartridge 1 includes the second engagement portion 32 at the right end portion and the first engagement portion 33 at the left end portion.

On the other hand, in the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, the developing cartridge 1 includes both the first engaging portion 51 and the second engaging portion 52 at the right end.
(2) Details of Developing Cartridge The first engaging portion 51 is disposed at the right end portion of the upper wall 40 of the developing housing 31. The first engaging portion 51 has a substantially prismatic shape extending upward from the upper surface 56 of the right end portion of the upper wall 40. The upper surface 56 at the right end of the upper wall 40 is an example of a first flat portion that extends in the front-rear direction and the left-right direction. The first engagement portion 51 has a first recess 53 and a boss 54.

  The first recessed portion 53 is recessed downward from the upper surface of the first engaging portion 51. The first recess 53 has a substantially rectangular shape in plan view.

  The boss 54 is disposed in the first recess 53. The boss 54 has a substantially prismatic shape protruding upward from the bottom surface of the first recess 53. The structure having the boss 54 is an example of the first structure.

  The second engagement part 52 is disposed in front of the first engagement part 51. The second engaging portion 52 has a substantially prismatic shape extending upward from the upper surface 57 of the right side wall 37. The upper surface 57 of the right side wall 37 is an example of a second flat portion that extends in the front-rear direction and the left-right direction in parallel with the upper surface 56 of the right end portion of the upper wall 40. The second engagement portion 52 includes a second recess 55. The outer dimension of the second engagement part 52 is substantially the same as the inner dimension of the first recess 53.

The second recessed portion 55 is recessed downward from the upper surface of the second engaging portion 52. The second recess 55 has a substantially rectangular shape in plan view. The inner dimension of the second recess 55 is substantially the same as the outer dimension of the boss 54. The structure having the second recess 55 is an example of the second structure.
(3) Packaging of Developer Cartridge Hereinafter, a method for packing the developer cartridge 1 will be described.

  When the developer cartridge 1 is collected to the manufacturer, the worker can remove a plurality of, specifically 2, detached from the main casing 12 as shown in FIG. 9 as in the first embodiment. Two developing cartridges 1 are combined and packed in one packing box 41.

  In order to combine the two developing cartridges 1, first, the operator places the other developing cartridge 1 upside down on one developing cartridge 1 as shown in FIG. 10.

  At this time, the operator turns the upper developing cartridge 1 upside down so that the developing roller 2 of the upper developing cartridge 1 is disposed above the front end portion of the lower developing cartridge 1.

  Then, the first engaging portion 51 of the upper developing cartridge 1 is positioned above the second engaging portion 52 of the lower developing cartridge 1. Further, the second engaging portion 52 of the upper developing cartridge 1 is positioned above the first engaging portion 51 of the lower developing cartridge 1.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 11, the operator places the upper developing cartridge 1 on the lower developing cartridge 1.

  At this time, the operator places the boss 54 of the first engaging portion 51 of the lower developing cartridge 1 into the second recess 55 of the second engaging portion 52 of the upper developing cartridge 1 as shown in FIG. At the same time, the boss 54 of the first engaging portion 51 of the upper developing cartridge 1 is fitted into the second recess 55 of the second engaging portion 52 of the lower developing cartridge 1.

  Then, the positions of the two developing cartridges 1 are fixed to each other so that the developing rollers 2 face the front end of the other developing cartridge 1. Thereby, the two developing cartridges 1 are combined.

Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 8, the worker accommodates the two developing cartridges 1 in the packing box 41 in a combined state.
(3) Effects of Second Embodiment (3-1) According to the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, the second engagement portion 52 is in the front-rear direction with respect to the first engagement portion 51. May be arranged adjacent to each other.

Therefore, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, at the right end of the developing cartridge 1, the two developing cartridges 1 can be combined with each other and fixed more stably.
(3-2) According to the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, the developing roller 2 of one developing cartridge 1 faces the front end of the other developing cartridge 1.

Therefore, the developing roller 2 can be protected by the front end portion of the other developing cartridge 1.
(3-3) Also in the second embodiment, the same operational effects as those of the first embodiment described above can be obtained.
7). Other Modifications The first embodiment and the second embodiment described above can be combined with each other. For example, in the second embodiment, the first engaging portion 51 and the second engaging portion 52 can also be provided at the left end portion of the developing cartridge 1.

  Moreover, in 2nd Embodiment, the 1st engaging part 51 and the 2nd engaging part 52 can also be comprised in the same shape as the 2nd engaging part 32 and the 1st engaging part 33 of 1st Embodiment. .

  In the first embodiment and the second embodiment described above, the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion are provided on the upper surface of the developing case 31. However, the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion are provided. Can also be provided on the upper surface of the drive unit 43 or the upper surface of the power supply unit 44.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the developing cartridge 1 is described as an example of the cartridge. However, as an example of the cartridge, for example, a process that integrally includes a developing unit having the developing roller 2 and a drum unit having the photosensitive drum 22. A cartridge can also be mentioned.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Developing cartridge 2 Developing roller 12 Main body casing 31 Developing frame 32 1st engaging part 33 2nd engaging part 34 Recessed part 35 Boss 38 Lower wall 38D Rear end part 40 Upper wall 40A Upper surface 40B Upper surface 41 Packing box 42 Holding part 51 First 1 engaging part 52 2nd engaging part L Virtual surface

Claims (6)

A cartridge configured to be used in an image forming apparatus main body, a developing roller configured to carry a developer, a first flat portion extending in an axial direction of the developing roller, and orthogonal to the axial direction A frame that is disposed on the same side as the first plane part in the first orthogonal direction and has a second plane part parallel to the first plane part, and both the axial direction and the first orthogonal direction. A frame having a first end disposed adjacent to the developing roller in a second orthogonal direction orthogonal to the first end, and a second end disposed on the opposite side of the first end in the second orthogonal direction; A first engagement portion disposed on the first plane portion and having a first structure and a structure different from the first structure disposed on the second plane portion and engageable with the first structure A second having a second structure which is a structure; A cartridge comprising a frame and a coupling portion,
An accommodating member configured to accommodate a plurality of the cartridges;
Have
The first engaging portion of one cartridge among the plurality of cartridges accommodated in the accommodating member is engaged with the second engaging portion of the other cartridge among the plurality of cartridges. And
The developing roller of the one cartridge is disposed on the second end side of the one cartridge with respect to a virtual surface extending in the first orthogonal direction through the first end portion of the one cartridge. A cartridge packaging body , which faces the second end portion of the cartridge and is spaced from the other cartridge and the receiving member .   A cartridge configured to be used in an image forming apparatus main body, a developing roller configured to carry a developer, a first flat portion extending in an axial direction of the developing roller, and orthogonal to the axial direction A frame that is disposed on the same side as the first plane part in the first orthogonal direction and has a second plane part parallel to the first plane part, and both the axial direction and the first orthogonal direction. A frame having a first end disposed adjacent to the developing roller in a second orthogonal direction orthogonal to the first end, and a second end disposed on the opposite side of the first end in the second orthogonal direction; A first engagement portion disposed on the first plane portion and having a first structure and a structure different from the first structure disposed on the second plane portion and engageable with the first structure A second having a second structure which is a structure; A cartridge comprising a frame and a coupling portion,
  An accommodating member configured to accommodate a plurality of the cartridges;
Have
  The first engaging portion of one cartridge among the plurality of cartridges accommodated in the accommodating member is engaged with the second engaging portion of the other cartridge among the plurality of cartridges. And
  The developing roller of the one cartridge is disposed on the second end side of the one cartridge with respect to a virtual surface extending in the first orthogonal direction through the first end portion of the one cartridge. A cartridge packaging body, which faces the developing roller of the other cartridge and is spaced from the other cartridge and the housing member. The first engagement portion is disposed at one end of the frame in the axial direction,
3. The cartridge package according to claim 1, wherein the second engagement portion is disposed at the other end portion of the frame in the axial direction. The first engagement portion is disposed at one end of the frame in the axial direction,
The second engaging portion is disposed adjacent to the first engaging portion at the one end in a second orthogonal direction orthogonal to both the axial direction and the first orthogonal direction. The cartridge package according to claim 1 or 2 . The first engagement portion includes a plurality of protrusions,
5. The cartridge packaging body according to claim 1, wherein the second engagement portion includes a recess configured to fit the plurality of protrusions.   A shipping process for packing and shipping one cartridge;
  A cartridge packing body in which a plurality of the cartridges are packed together, and a collecting step of collecting the cartridge packing body according to any one of claims 1 to 5;
A method of collecting a cartridge, comprising:

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