JP6432390B2 - Exterior cover of image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an exterior cover of an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine or a printer.

  In an image forming apparatus such as an electrophotographic copying machine or a laser beam printer, an electrophotographic system is adopted as a process for forming an image on a paper medium (sheet). In the electrophotographic system, a toner image that is a visible image is formed on a photosensitive member that is a recording medium, and this is transferred onto a paper medium such as plain paper. In order to hold the toner image on the paper medium as a permanent image on the sheet, for example, after the toner is fixed by passing through a heat fixing device, the paper medium is discharged out of the image forming apparatus.

  In such an image forming apparatus, in recent years, there is an increasing demand for environmental support for the image forming apparatus. For example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 9-236961 (Patent Document 1) discloses a technique having a shape that facilitates disassembly after use in order to facilitate recycling and reuse. Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2000-108146 (Patent Document 2) discloses a technique in which new parts are not easily increased by sharing parts with the previous model. Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-221847 (Patent Document 3) discloses a technique for collecting parts for each life of replacement parts and not discarding them unnecessarily (reduce).

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-236961 JP 2000-108146 A JP 2002-221847 A

  In the environment described above, when changing the material of a part used in an image forming apparatus to a recycled resin material, it has been an appeal only for use in the past. It is also necessary to increase and reduce the environmental burden.

  In the future, it is assumed that the use of recycled resin materials and other different materials will be increased from the successor to the predecessor, but it is conceivable that the appearance design of the image forming apparatus will be inherited. In this case, if new and old parts are mixed in the exterior cover between the predecessor and the successor, there is a concern that a mounting error may occur when the exterior cover is mounted.

  An object of the present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and in an exterior cover of two types of image forming apparatuses having the same external shape, an image forming apparatus having a structure for preventing the occurrence of an erroneous mounting of the exterior cover. An object is to provide an exterior cover.

  The image forming apparatus according to the present invention is an exterior cover for an image forming apparatus used for each of a first image forming apparatus covered with a first exterior cover and a second image forming apparatus covered with a second exterior cover. The first exterior cover and the second exterior cover are made of different materials, and the first exterior cover includes a first A configuration cover and a second A configuration cover, and the second exterior cover is a 1B configuration cover. And the second B configuration cover, the first A configuration cover and the first B configuration cover have the same outer shape, and the second A configuration cover and the second B configuration cover have the same outer shape. Yes, the interior shapes of the first A component cover and the first B component cover have regions having different shapes, and the second A component cover and the second B component cover. Even in the interior shape of the above, by having regions different in shape from each other, the first A configuration cover cannot be used as the first exterior cover or the second exterior cover in combination with the second B configuration cover, The first A cover and the second outer cover cannot be used in combination with the first B cover.

  In another embodiment, the first A component cover and the second A component cover are used so that their end portions are abutted with each other, and the first B component cover and the second B component cover have mutual end portions. Either the inward shape at the abutting portion of the first A component cover and the second A component cover or the inward shape at the abutting portion of the first B component cover and the second B component cover. One abutting portion is provided with an uneven portion that fits to each other, and any other abutting portion is not provided with an uneven portion that fits to each other.

  In another embodiment, the first A configuration cover and the second A configuration cover are used to overlap each other, and the first B configuration cover and the second B configuration cover are used to overlap each other. In the interior shape of the overlapping portion of the first A configuration cover and the second A configuration cover, a hole is provided on one side, and a projection that fits into the hole is provided on the other side, and the first B configuration cover and the second B Also in the introspection shape in the overlapping portion with the configuration cover, a hole is provided on one side, and a projection that fits into the hole is provided on the other side, the hole of the first exterior cover, and the position where the projection is provided, This is a position different from the position where the hole and the protrusion of the second exterior cover are provided.

  In another embodiment, the first A component cover and the second A component cover are used so that their end portions are abutted with each other, and the first B component cover and the second B component cover have mutual end portions. In the introspection shape in the abutting portion between the first A component cover and the second A component cover, the abutting portion is provided with a concavo-convex portion that fits to each other, and the first B configuration Even in the introspection shape at the abutting portion between the cover and the second B-constituting cover, the abutting portion is provided with an uneven portion that fits together, the shape of the uneven portion of the first exterior cover, and the second It is a shape different from the shape of the said uneven | corrugated | grooved part of an exterior cover.

  In another embodiment, a plurality of reinforcing ribs are provided in the interior appearance of the first exterior cover, and a plurality of reinforcement ribs are also provided in the interior appearance of the second exterior cover, and the material of the first exterior cover The strength is weaker than the material strength of the second exterior cover, and the number of reinforcing ribs provided on the first exterior cover is greater than the number of reinforcing ribs provided on the second exterior cover. .

  In another embodiment, a material used for the first exterior cover and the second exterior cover, one of which is a recycled resin material, and the other is a non-regenerated resin material.

  In another form, the stamp displayed on the first exterior cover is different from the stamp displayed on the second exterior cover.

  In another embodiment, the first A component cover and the first B component cover are different from each other in the shapes of the main body resin mold having the same shape, the first A component cover, and the first B component cover. The second A component cover and the second B component cover are formed of the same body resin mold, the second A component cover, and the second component. The 2B component cover is molded by using a nesting that can be replaced only with respect to the difference in shape of the cover.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an exterior cover for an image forming apparatus having a structure for preventing the occurrence of erroneous mounting of the exterior cover in the exterior cover for two types of image forming apparatuses having the same external shape.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating the entire configuration of the first and second image forming apparatuses in the embodiment as viewed from the front side. FIG. 3 is a first partial perspective view of the first and second image forming apparatuses viewed from the left side in the embodiment. It is the 2nd partial perspective view seen from the left side of the 1st and 2nd image forming device in an embodiment. FIG. 6 is a third partial perspective view of the first and second image forming apparatuses in the embodiment as viewed from the left side. It is the figure which looked at the abutting part of the scanner part side surface exterior cover and upper side pillar exterior cover of the 1st image forming device in an embodiment. It is the figure which looked at the butting | matching part of the scanner part side surface exterior cover of the 2nd image forming apparatus in an embodiment, and an upper side surface pillar exterior cover. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a scanner unit of the first and second image forming apparatuses in the embodiment. FIG. 5 is an introspection of an image reading surface vertical exterior cover of the scanner unit of the first image forming apparatus and an abutting portion of the image reading surface lateral exterior cover in the embodiment. FIG. 6 is an introspection of an image reading surface vertical exterior cover of an image reading unit and an abutting portion of an image reading surface lateral exterior cover of the second image forming apparatus in the embodiment. FIG. 3 is an external view of the intermediate side surface exterior cover and the overlapping portion of the intermediate side surface column exterior cover of the first and second image forming apparatuses in the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an introspective view of an intermediate portion side surface exterior cover and an overlapping portion of the intermediate portion side surface pillar exterior cover of the first and second image forming apparatuses in the embodiment. FIG. 3 is an introspective view of an overlapping portion of the intermediate side surface exterior cover and the intermediate side surface pillar exterior cover of the first image forming apparatus in the embodiment. It is the figure which looked at the overlap part of the intermediate part side surface exterior cover and intermediate part side surface pillar exterior cover of the 2nd image forming apparatus in embodiment. FIG. 6 is a fourth partial perspective view of the first and second image forming apparatuses in the embodiment as viewed from the left side. In FIG. 14, it is a fragmentary perspective view which shows the state which removed the discharge paper holding stand. In FIG. 15, it is a fragmentary perspective view which shows the state which removed the 1st intermediate part side surface exterior cover. FIG. 4 is an external view of a discharge sheet top surface exterior cover and a butted portion of a second intermediate side surface exterior cover of the first image forming apparatus in the embodiment. FIG. 10 is an external view of a discharge sheet top surface exterior cover and a butted portion of a second intermediate side surface exterior cover of the second image forming apparatus in the embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the front opening / closing exterior panel and the 1st intermediate part side surface exterior cover of the 1st and 2nd image forming apparatus in embodiment. FIG. 4 is an external perspective view of only the front opening / closing exterior panel and the first intermediate side surface exterior cover of the first and second image forming apparatuses in the embodiment. FIG. 3 is an interior perspective view in which only the front opening / closing exterior panel and the first intermediate side surface exterior cover of the first and second image forming apparatuses in the embodiment are taken out. FIG. 3 is an interior perspective view in which only the front opening / closing exterior panel and the first intermediate side surface exterior cover of the first image forming apparatus in the embodiment are taken out. FIG. 6 is an interior perspective view in which only a front opening / closing exterior panel and a first intermediate side surface exterior cover of the second image forming apparatus in the embodiment are taken out. (A) is a figure which shows the stamp attached | subjected to the components by the side of the 1st image forming apparatus, and (B) is a figure which shows the stamp attached | subjected to the parts by the side of the 2nd image forming apparatus. It is a metal mold | die used when shape | molding the upper side pillar exterior cover in embodiment using resin injection molding. It is a metal mold | die used when shape | molding the upper side pillar exterior cover in embodiment using resin injection molding.

  Hereinafter, an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments described below, when referring to the number, amount, and the like, the scope of the present invention is not necessarily limited to the number, amount, and the like unless otherwise specified. The same parts and corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description may not be repeated. Further, in the drawings, there are some portions that are not illustrated in accordance with the ratio of actual dimensions, but are illustrated with the ratio changed so that the structure becomes clear in order to facilitate understanding of the structure.

[Image forming apparatus 100]
With reference to FIG. 1, a schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the entire configuration of an image forming apparatus 100 according to an embodiment as viewed from the front side.

  When the image forming apparatus 100 receives a request for printing or copying, the recording paper is conveyed from the paper feeding cassettes 102, 103, 104 of the paper feeding unit or the manual feed tray 116 to the apparatus main body 101 by the paper feeding roller 105. Is done. The conveyance timing is controlled by a registration roller 110 that controls the conveyance timing of the recording paper, and the recording paper is supplied to the recording paper feeding conveyance route PR.

  The four color imaging units of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black are composed of photoreceptor units 108Y, 108M, 108C, and 108K and developing unit 107Y, 107M, 107C, and 107K, respectively. In each of the photoconductor units 108Y, 108M, 108C, and 108K, a charging device, a cleaner device, a static eliminator, and the like are disposed around a cylindrical photoconductor having photoconductivity. The charging device is a device for charging the rotationally driven photoconductor, and the surface potential of the photoconductor becomes a predetermined charging potential by the charging device.

  The charging device irradiates the photosensitive member charged to a predetermined charging potential by the charging device with an exposure beam based on image information requested to be printed or copied. An LD (Laser Diode) is mainly used as a light source for the exposure beam.

  The surface potential of the portion irradiated with the beam on the surface of the photoreceptor is reduced to a predetermined level due to the photoconductivity of the photoreceptor. By changing the surface potential of the surface of the photoconductor, an electrostatic latent image based on an image requested to be printed or copied is formed on the surface of the photoconductor exposed by the charging device.

  The electrostatic latent image formed on the surface of the photoreceptor is developed by the developing unit 107Y, 107M, 107C, 107K, and is primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 109. Thereafter, four colors of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black are collectively applied to the recording paper that has been passed along the recording paper passing conveyance path PR by the secondary transfer roller 112 that is pressed against the intermediate transfer belt 109. Transcribed. The recording paper on which the toner image has been transferred is fixed on the toner image by the fixing unit 113 and discharged onto the paper discharge tray 114.

  Below the apparatus main body 101 of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment, three sheet feeding cassettes 102, 103, and 104 that store recording sheets of various sizes are arranged. In general, in an image forming apparatus such as an electrophotographic copying machine or a laser beam printer, the lower paper feed cassette is used for paper replenishment. Therefore, a paper feed cassette having a large number of recording papers may be arranged. Many.

  Also in the present embodiment, the paper feed cassettes 102 and 103 located on the upper side are paper feed cassettes in which small-capacity recording paper is accumulated, and the paper feed cassette 104 located at the bottom is the paper feed cassette 102, The paper feed cassette has a larger number of recording papers than 103, or a paper feeding cassette in which recording paper having a larger size is accommodated.

  In the image forming apparatus 100 having the above configuration, the exterior shape of the exterior cover is the same between the predecessor and the successor, but there are cases where old and new parts with different materials are mixed. In this case, it is necessary to avoid an erroneous mounting of the exterior cover when the exterior cover is mounted. Hereinafter, the exterior cover of the image forming apparatus provided with a structure that prevents the exterior cover from being mounted incorrectly will be described.

  In the following, when explaining the common appearance of the predecessor machine and the successor machine, the image forming apparatus will be described using the same drawing, and the structure of the introspection structure in the structure of the predecessor machine and the successor machine. Are different from each other, the preceding image forming apparatus is referred to as a first image forming apparatus, and the succeeding image forming apparatus is referred to as a second image forming apparatus.

  The exterior cover of the image forming apparatus 100 of the present embodiment described below is used for the first image forming apparatus covered with the first exterior cover and the second image forming apparatus covered with the second exterior cover, respectively. The exterior cover of the image forming apparatus to be manufactured.

  The first exterior cover and the second exterior cover are made of different materials. The first exterior cover includes a first A configuration cover and a second A configuration cover, and the second exterior cover includes a first B configuration cover and a second B. Including the configuration cover, the first A configuration cover and the first B configuration cover have the same external shape, and the second A configuration cover and the second B configuration cover have the same external configuration.

  The interior shapes of the first A configuration cover and the first B configuration cover have regions that are different from each other, and the interior configurations of the second A configuration cover and the second B configuration cover also have regions that are different from each other in shape. Have.

  As a result, the first A configuration cover cannot be used as the first exterior cover or the second exterior cover by combining the 2B configuration cover with the first A configuration cover. And it cannot be used as the second exterior cover.

[Scanner side cover and upper side column cover]
With reference to FIGS. 2 to 6, the structure of the scanner unit side surface exterior cover and the upper side surface pillar exterior cover will be described. 2 to 4 are first to third partial perspective views as viewed from the left side of the first and second image forming apparatuses, and FIG. 5 is a side surface exterior cover 101A of the scanner section of the first image forming apparatus. FIG. 6 is an introspection of the abutting portion of the upper side column exterior cover 102A, and FIG. 6 is an introspective view of the abutting portion of the scanner side surface exterior cover 101B and the upper side column exterior cover 102B of the second image forming apparatus. .

  The scanner unit side surface exterior cover 101A corresponds to a first A configuration cover, and the upper side surface column exterior cover 102A corresponds to a second A configuration cover, and both constitute a first exterior cover. The scanner side surface exterior cover 101B corresponds to a first B configuration cover, and the upper side column exterior cover 102B corresponds to a second B configuration cover, and both constitute a second exterior cover.

  For example, the first exterior cover (scanner side side exterior cover 101A and upper side column exterior cover 102A) is made of resin (non-recycled resin), and the second exterior cover (scanner part side exterior cover 101B and upper part). A recycled resin material (recycled resin) is used for the side post exterior cover 102B). Therefore, different materials are used for the first exterior cover and the second exterior cover. Examples of the recycled resin material (recycled resin) include a resin (recycled PC / PET) in which recycled PET is combined with PC (polycarbonate).

  2 to 4, in the first image forming apparatus and the second image forming apparatus, the scanner unit side surface exterior cover 101A and the scanner unit side surface exterior cover 101B have the same shape in appearance, and The side column exterior cover 102A and the upper side column exterior cover 102B have the same external shape. Other exterior covers that appear in the figure will be described later.

  With reference to FIG. 5, the structure of the scanner unit side surface exterior cover 101A and the upper side surface column exterior cover 102A in the first image forming apparatus in introspection will be described. A rib 101a and a rib 101b are provided on the inner surface of the scanner unit side surface exterior cover 101A, and a gap S is provided between the rib 101a and the rib 101b. The rib 101b is provided with a convex portion 101c extending downward.

  On the other hand, a step 102p that goes around the inner surface of the scanner side surface outer cover 101A is provided at the upper end of the upper side column outer cover 102A, and the step 102p has a protrusion that enters the gap S of the scanner side surface outer cover 101A. The part 102a and the recessed part 102b which receives the convex part 101c are provided. As a result, as shown in FIG. 5, in the first image forming apparatus, the scanner unit side surface exterior cover 101A and the upper side surface column exterior cover 102A are provided with recesses to be fitted to each other. It has a structure that can be matched with.

  With reference to FIG. 6, the structure of the scanner unit side surface exterior cover 101B and the upper side surface column exterior cover 102B in the second image forming apparatus as viewed from the inside is described. The rib 101a is formed at the end of the scanner unit side surface exterior cover 101B, but no gap is provided. Further, the upper side column exterior cover 102B is provided with a stepped portion 102p, but is not formed with irregularities. As a result, as shown in FIG. 6, in the second image forming apparatus, the scanner unit side surface exterior cover 101 </ b> B and the upper side surface column exterior cover 102 </ b> B have a structure that can be abutted at both ends.

  Here, even if the scanner unit side surface exterior cover 101A and the upper side column exterior cover 102B are combined, the convex portion 102a contacts the stepped portion 102p, and the scanner unit side surface exterior cover 101A and the upper side column exterior cover 102B are combined. Therefore, it cannot be used as the first exterior cover or the second exterior cover.

  Similarly, even if the scanner unit side surface exterior cover 101B and the upper side column exterior cover 102A are combined, the convex portion 101c contacts the rib 101a, and the scanner unit side surface exterior cover 101B and the upper side column exterior cover 102A are combined. The first outer cover or the second outer cover cannot be used.

  In this way, it is possible to prevent an erroneous mounting of the exterior cover in the first exterior cover and the second exterior cover of the two types of image forming apparatuses having the same exterior shape.

[Image reading surface vertical exterior cover and image reading surface lateral exterior cover]
The structure of the image reading surface vertical exterior cover and the image reading surface lateral exterior cover will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 is a perspective view of the scanner unit 140 of the first and second image forming apparatuses, and FIG. 8 is an image reading surface vertical exterior cover 201A and an image reading surface lateral exterior cover 202A of the scanner unit of the first image forming apparatus. FIG. 9 is an internal view of the image reading surface vertical exterior cover 201B and the image reading surface horizontal exterior cover 202B of the image reading unit of the second image forming apparatus. .

  The image reading surface vertical exterior cover 201A corresponds to a first A configuration cover, and the image reading surface lateral exterior cover 202A corresponds to a second A configuration cover, and both constitute a first exterior cover. The image reading surface vertical exterior cover 201B corresponds to the first B configuration cover, and the image reading surface lateral exterior cover 202B corresponds to the second B configuration cover, and both constitute a second exterior cover.

  For example, the first exterior cover (image reading surface vertical exterior cover 201A and image reading surface lateral exterior cover 202A) is made of resin (non-recycled resin), and the second exterior cover (image reading surface vertical exterior cover 201B, Further, a recycled resin material (recycled resin) is used for the image reading surface lateral exterior cover 202B). Therefore, different materials are used for the first exterior cover and the second exterior cover. Examples of the recycled resin material (recycled resin) include a resin (recycled PC / PET) in which recycled PET is combined with PC (polycarbonate).

  7 to 9, in the first image forming apparatus and the second image forming apparatus, the image reading surface vertical exterior cover 201A and the image reading surface vertical exterior cover 201B have the same shape in appearance. The image reading surface lateral exterior cover 202A and the image reading surface lateral exterior cover 202B have the same external shape.

  With reference to FIG. 8, the structure of the image reading surface vertical exterior cover 201A and the image reading surface lateral exterior cover 202A in introspection will be described. A convex portion 201a and a concave portion 201b are provided at the end portion 201p of the image reading surface vertical exterior cover 201A. In addition, the end 202p of the image reading surface lateral exterior cover 202A is provided with a concave portion 202a into which the convex portion 201a is fitted and a convex portion 202b into which the convex portion 201b is fitted. As a result, as shown in FIG. 8, in the first image forming apparatus, the image reading surface vertical exterior cover 201 </ b> A and the image reading surface horizontal exterior cover 202 </ b> A are provided with uneven portions to be fitted to each other, It has a structure that can be matched at both ends.

  With reference to FIG. 9, the structure of the image reading surface vertical exterior cover 201B and the image reading surface lateral exterior cover 202B in introspection will be described. Neither the end 201p of the image reading surface vertical exterior cover 201B nor the end 202p of the image reading surface lateral exterior cover 202B is provided with an uneven shape. As a result, as shown in FIG. 9, in the second image forming apparatus, the image reading surface vertical exterior cover 201B and the image reading surface horizontal exterior cover 202B have a structure capable of abutting the end portions of both.

  Here, even if the image reading surface vertical exterior cover 201A and the image reading surface horizontal exterior cover 202B are combined, the convex portion 201a comes into contact with the end portion 202p, and the image reading surface vertical exterior cover 201A and the image reading surface lateral exterior cover 202B cannot be used in combination as the first exterior cover or the second exterior cover.

  Similarly, even when the image reading surface vertical exterior cover 201B and the image reading surface horizontal exterior cover 202A are combined, the convex portion 201b abuts on the end 201p, and the image reading surface vertical exterior cover 201B and the image reading surface lateral exterior cover are combined. 202A cannot be used in combination as the first exterior cover or the second exterior cover.

  In this way, it is possible to prevent an erroneous mounting of the exterior cover in the first exterior cover and the second exterior cover of the two types of image forming apparatuses having the same exterior shape.

[Intermediate part side exterior cover and intermediate part side pillar exterior cover]
With reference to FIGS. 10 to 13, the structure of the intermediate portion side surface exterior cover and the intermediate portion side surface pillar exterior cover will be described. FIG. 10 is an external view of the overlapping portion of the intermediate side surface exterior covers 301A and B and the intermediate side surface column exterior covers 302A and B of the first and second image forming apparatuses. FIG. 11 is an introspective view of the overlapping portion of the intermediate side surface exterior covers 301A and B and the intermediate side surface column exterior covers 302A and B of the first and second image forming apparatuses, and FIG. 12 illustrates the first image. FIG. 13 is an introspective view of the overlapping portion of the intermediate side surface exterior cover 301A and the intermediate side surface pillar exterior cover 302A of the forming apparatus. FIG. 13 illustrates the intermediate side surface exterior cover 301B and the intermediate part of the second image forming apparatus. It is the figure which looked at the overlapping part of the side pillar exterior cover 302B internally.

  The intermediate side surface exterior cover 301A corresponds to the first A configuration cover, and the intermediate side surface column exterior cover 302A corresponds to the second A configuration cover, and both constitute the first exterior cover. The intermediate side surface exterior cover 301B corresponds to the first B configuration cover, the intermediate side surface column exterior cover 302B corresponds to the second B configuration cover, and both constitute a second exterior cover.

  The intermediate side column exterior covers 302A and 302B are covered with the upper side column exterior covers 102A and 102B in the normal use state, but the intermediate side column exterior covers 302A and 302B are internal devices. Since it protects, it corresponds to an exterior cover.

  For example, a resin (non-recycled resin) is used for the intermediate side surface outer cover 301A of the first outer cover, and a recycled resin material (recycled resin) is used for the intermediate side surface outer cover 301B of the second outer cover. . Therefore, different materials are used for the first exterior cover and the second exterior cover. Examples of the recycled resin material (recycled resin) include a resin (recycled PC / PET) in which recycled PET is combined with PC (polycarbonate). The intermediate side columnar exterior covers 302A and 302B are made of sheet metal.

  Referring to FIG. 10, in the first image forming apparatus and the second image forming apparatus, the intermediate side surface exterior cover 301A and the intermediate side surface exterior cover 301B have the same shape in appearance, and the intermediate side surface column. The exterior cover 302A and the intermediate side column exterior cover 302B have the same external shape.

  With reference to FIG. 12, the structure of the intermediate portion side surface exterior cover 301A and the intermediate portion side surface pillar exterior cover 302A in introspection will be described. The lower end portion of the intermediate side surface exterior cover 302A and the intermediate side surface exterior cover 301A are used so as to overlap each other. The intermediate side surface exterior cover 301A is provided with a protrusion 301a, and the intermediate side surface column exterior cover 302A is provided with a hole 302a into which the protrusion 301a is fitted.

  As a result, as shown in FIG. 12, in the first image forming apparatus, the intermediate side surface exterior cover 301A and the intermediate side surface exterior cover 302A are fitted between the projections 301a in the holes 302a. It is a structure that can be overlapped without forming a gap.

  With reference to FIG. 13, an internal structure of the intermediate side surface exterior cover 301 </ b> B and the intermediate side surface pillar exterior cover 302 </ b> B will be described. The lower end portion of the intermediate part side surface exterior cover 302B and the intermediate part side surface exterior cover 301B are used so as to overlap each other. The intermediate side surface exterior cover 301B is provided with a protrusion 301a, and the intermediate side surface column exterior cover 302A is provided with a hole 302a into which the protrusion 301a is fitted.

  As a result, as shown in FIG. 13, in the second image forming apparatus, the intermediate portion side exterior cover 301B and the intermediate portion side column exterior cover 302B are fitted between the projections 301a in the holes 302a. It is a structure that can be overlapped without forming a gap. The positions where the protrusions 301a and the holes 302a are provided are different positions from the intermediate side surface exterior cover 301A and the intermediate side surface exterior cover 302A.

  Here, even if the intermediate portion side surface exterior cover 301A and the intermediate portion side surface column exterior cover 302B are combined, the protrusion 301a abuts on the intermediate portion side surface column exterior cover 302B, and the intermediate portion side surface exterior cover 301A and the intermediate portion side surface exterior column cover It cannot be used as the first exterior cover or the second exterior cover in combination with the cover 302B.

  Similarly, even if the intermediate side surface exterior cover 301B and the intermediate side surface column exterior cover 302A are combined, the protrusion 301a abuts on the intermediate side surface exterior cover 302A, and the intermediate side surface exterior cover 301B and the intermediate side surface exterior column cover are attached. It cannot be used as the second exterior cover or the second exterior cover in combination with the cover 302A.

  In this way, it is possible to prevent an erroneous mounting of the exterior cover in the first exterior cover and the second exterior cover of the two types of image forming apparatuses having the same exterior shape.

[Discharged paper top cover and first and second intermediate side cover]
With reference to FIGS. 14 to 18, the structures of the discharge sheet top cover and the first and second intermediate side cover are described. 14 is a fourth partial perspective view seen from the left side of the first and second image forming apparatuses, and FIG. 15 is a partial perspective view showing a state in which the discharge sheet holding base 402 is removed in FIG. 15 is a partial perspective view showing a state in which the first intermediate side surface exterior cover 501 is removed in FIG. 15, and FIG. 17 is a discharge sheet top surface exterior cover 441A of the first image forming apparatus and a second intermediate side surface exterior. FIG. 18 is an external view of the butted portion of the cover 442A, and FIG. 18 is an external view of the butted portion of the discharge sheet top surface exterior cover 441B and the second intermediate side surface exterior cover 442B of the second image forming apparatus.

  The discharge sheet top cover 441A corresponds to a 1A component cover, the first intermediate side cover 501A and the second intermediate cover 442A correspond to a second cover A, and both constitute the first cover. To do. The discharge sheet top cover 441B corresponds to the 1B component cover, the first intermediate side cover 501B and the second intermediate cover 442B correspond to the second cover cover, and both constitute the second cover. To do.

  The discharge sheet top cover 441A and 441B are covered by the discharge sheet holder 402 in a normal use state, but the discharge sheet top cover 441A and 441B protect the internal devices. Therefore, it corresponds to the exterior cover. Further, the second intermediate portion side surface cover 442A, 442B is covered with the first intermediate portion side surface cover 501A, 501B in a normal use state, but the second intermediate portion side surface cover 442A, 442B is Since the internal device is protected, the first intermediate side surface exterior cover 501A, 501B and the second intermediate side surface exterior cover 442A, 442B constitute an exterior cover.

  For example, a resin (non-recycled resin) is used for the first intermediate side surface outer cover 501A of the first outer cover, and a recycled resin material (recycled resin) is used for the first intermediate side surface outer cover 501B of the second outer cover. ) Is used. Therefore, different materials are used for the first exterior cover and the second exterior cover. Examples of the recycled resin material (recycled resin) include a resin (recycled PC / PET) in which recycled PET is combined with PC (polycarbonate).

  Sheet metal is used for the discharge sheet top cover 441A of the first exterior cover and the second intermediate side surface cover 442A, and the discharge sheet top cover 441B and the second cover cover 441B of the second exterior cover. A sheet metal is also used for the intermediate side surface outer cover 442B.

  Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, in the first image forming apparatus and the second image forming apparatus, discharge paper top cover 441A and discharge paper top cover 441B have the same shape in appearance. The first intermediate side surface outer cover 501 has the same shape as each other, and the second intermediate side surface outer cover 442A and the second intermediate side surface outer cover 442B when the first intermediate side surface outer cover 501 is removed. Have a partially different appearance in the interior.

  With reference to FIG. 17, an introspective structure of the discharge sheet top cover 441 </ b> A and the second intermediate side cover 442 </ b> A will be described. The end of the discharge sheet top cover 441A and the second intermediate side cover 442A are used so as to abut each other at the corner. The discharge sheet top cover 441A is provided with protrusions 441a and 441b, and the end of the second intermediate side cover 442A is provided with recesses 442a and 442b into which the protrusions 441a and 441b are fitted. Yes. As a result, as shown in FIG. 17, in the first image forming apparatus, in the discharge sheet top cover 441A and the second intermediate side cover 442A, the protrusions 441a and 441b are fitted into the recesses 442a and 442b. Thus, the structure can be matched at both ends.

  With reference to FIG. 18, an introspection structure of the discharge sheet top cover 441 </ b> B and the second intermediate side cover 442 </ b> B will be described. The end of the discharge sheet top cover 441B and the second intermediate side cover 442B are used so as to abut each other at the corner. The discharge sheet top cover 441B is provided with a convex part 441a, and the end of the second intermediate side face external cover 442B is provided with a concave part 442a into which the convex part 441a is fitted. As a result, as shown in FIG. 18, in the second image forming apparatus, the discharge sheet top surface exterior cover 441B and the second intermediate side surface exterior cover 442B are connected to each other by fitting the convex portion 441a to the concave portion 442a. It is a structure that can be matched at the end of the. Note that the unevenness provided in the first image forming apparatus and the unevenness provided in the second image forming apparatus have different shapes in width and height.

  Here, even if the discharge sheet top cover 441A and the second intermediate side cover 442B are combined, the protrusions 441a and 441b cannot be fitted into the recess 442a. Similarly, even if the discharge sheet top cover 441B and the second intermediate side cover 442A are combined, the protrusion 441a cannot be fitted into the recesses 442a and 442b.

  In this way, it is possible to prevent an erroneous mounting of the exterior cover in the first exterior cover and the second exterior cover of the two types of image forming apparatuses having the same exterior shape.

[Discharged paper top cover and first and second intermediate side cover]
The structure of the front opening / closing exterior panel and the first intermediate portion side exterior cover 501 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing front open / close exterior panels 502A and 502B and first intermediate side surface exterior covers 501A and 501B of the first and second image forming apparatuses, and FIG. 20 shows the first and second image forming apparatuses. FIG. 21 is an external perspective view showing only the front opening / closing exterior panels 502A and 502B and the first intermediate side surface exterior covers 501A and 501B. FIG. 21 is a front opening / closing exterior panel 502A, 502B of the first and second image forming apparatuses. FIG. 22 shows only the front opening / closing exterior panel 502A of the first image forming apparatus, and only the first intermediate side surface cover 501A. FIG. 22 shows only the first intermediate side surface exterior cover 501A and 501B. FIG. 23 is an internal perspective view, FIG. 23 is a front opening / closing exterior panel 502B of the second image forming apparatus, and a first intermediate side surface exterior cover 501. A introspection perspective view taken out only.

  The first intermediate portion side exterior cover 501A corresponds to a first A configuration cover, and the front opening / closing exterior panel 502A corresponds to a second A configuration cover, and both constitute a first exterior cover. The first intermediate side surface exterior cover 501B corresponds to a first B configuration cover, and the front opening / closing exterior panel 502A corresponds to a second B configuration cover, and both constitute a second exterior cover.

  For example, the first outer cover (first intermediate side surface outer cover 501A and front open / close outer panel 502A) is made of resin (non-recycled resin), and the second outer cover (first intermediate side surface outer cover 501B, A recycled resin material (recycled resin) is used for the front opening / closing exterior panel 502B). Therefore, different materials are used for the first exterior cover and the second exterior cover. Examples of the recycled resin material (recycled resin) include a resin (recycled PC / PET) in which recycled PET is combined with PC (polycarbonate).

  Referring to FIG. 20, in the first image forming apparatus and the second image forming apparatus, the first intermediate side surface exterior cover 501A and the first intermediate side surface exterior cover 501B have the same shape in appearance. The front opening / closing exterior panel 502A and the front opening / closing exterior panel 502B have the same shape in appearance.

  With reference to FIGS. 21 and 22, the structure of the first intermediate portion side surface exterior cover 501A, the front opening / closing exterior panel 502A, and the butted portions at both ends will be described. The first intermediate portion side exterior cover 501A and the front opening / closing exterior panel 502A are used so as to abut each other at both ends. The first intermediate side surface exterior cover 501A is provided with a convex portion 501a and a concave portion 501b, and the front opening / closing exterior panel 502A is fitted with the convex portion 502a and the convex portion 501a that fit into the concave portion 501b. A recess 502b is provided. Further, a reinforcing rib 502c is provided in a region where the recess 502b of the front opening / closing exterior panel 502A is provided. The number of the reinforcing ribs 502c is appropriately changed according to the strength of the material used. The weaker the material, the greater the number of reinforcing ribs provided.

  As a result, as shown in FIG. 22, in the first image forming apparatus, the first intermediate portion side surface exterior cover 501A and the front opening / closing exterior panel 502A have a convex portion 501a, a concave portion 501b, a convex portion 502a, and a convex portion 501a. By being fitted to each other, a structure is possible in which both ends can be abutted.

  With reference to FIG. 23, the structure in the 1st intermediate part side surface exterior cover 501B, the front opening / closing exterior panel 502B, and the butt | matching part in both ends is demonstrated. The first intermediate portion side exterior cover 501B and the front opening / closing exterior panel 502B are used so as to abut at both ends. The first intermediate side surface exterior cover 501B is provided with a convex portion 501a and a concave portion 501b, and the front opening / closing exterior panel 502B is fitted with the convex portion 502a and the convex portion 501a fitted into the concave portion 501b. A recess 502b is provided. Further, a reinforcing rib 502c is provided in a region where the convex portion 502a of the front opening / closing exterior panel 502B is provided. The number of the reinforcing ribs 502c is appropriately changed according to the strength of the material used. A number different from that of the first image forming apparatus described above is employed.

  As a result, as shown in FIG. 23, in the second image forming apparatus, the first intermediate portion side surface exterior cover 501B and the front opening / closing exterior panel 502B have a convex portion 501a, a concave portion 501b, a convex portion 502a, and a convex portion 501a. By being fitted to each other, a structure is possible in which both ends can be abutted.

[Engraved]
Next, referring to FIGS. 24A and 24B, the marking used for the first exterior cover used for the first image forming apparatus and the second exterior cover used for the second image forming apparatus are used. The difference from the stamp will be described. FIG. 24A is a diagram showing inscriptions attached to components on the first image forming apparatus side, and FIG. 24B is a diagram showing inscriptions attached on components on the second image forming apparatus side.

  Referring to FIGS. 24A and 24B, for example, the product number “7PU1611” is made common in the first exterior cover and the second exterior cover, and the first for the first image forming apparatus is prefixed with the product number. “A” is attached to the exterior cover, “B” is attached to the second exterior cover for the second image forming apparatus, and so on, for the first image forming apparatus or the second image forming apparatus. It is good to be able to confirm visually whether it is. Means for making the marking used for the first exterior cover used in the first image forming apparatus different from the marking used for the second exterior cover used in the second image forming apparatus is limited to the method shown in FIG. However, various means can be used. A material symbol, a part number, or the like may be used as the type of marking.

[Mold]
Next, referring to FIG. 25 and FIG. 26, when manufacturing a mold used for manufacturing the first exterior cover for the first image forming apparatus and the second exterior cover for the second image forming apparatus. As an example, the mold used when manufacturing the upper side column exterior cover 102A and the upper side column exterior cover 102B described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6 will be described.

  The difference between the structures of the upper side column exterior cover 102A and the upper side column exterior cover 102B is that the upper side column exterior cover 102A is provided with a convex portion 102a and a concave portion 102b on its upper side, while The side column exterior cover 102B is in that the upper side thereof is not provided with irregularities.

  Therefore, as a mold for molding the upper side column exterior cover 102A and the upper side column exterior cover 102B, the main body resin molding die 601 having the same shape, the upper side column exterior cover 102A, and the upper side column exterior cover 102B. The nestings 602A and 602B that can be replaced only with respect to the different parts of the shape are used.

  In FIG. 25, a main body resin molding die 601 and a nest 602A fitted with a concave portion 601a for molding the convex portion 102a and the concave portion 102b are used to mold the upper side column exterior cover 102A.

  In FIG. 26, since it is not necessary to mold the main body resin molding die 601 and the convex portion 102a and the concave portion 102b in order to mold the upper side column exterior cover 102B, the insert 602B is attached to the concave portion 601a. .

  In this way, by using the same resin molding die for the common shape portion, the cost required for the die can be reduced and the cost required for manufacturing the cover can be reduced. The same applies to the other covers described above.

  The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

  100 image forming apparatus, 101 apparatus main body, 101A, 101B scanner unit side surface cover, 101a, 101b rib, 101c, 102a, 201a, 201b, 202b, 441a, 441b, 501a, 502a convex part, 102, 103, 104 Cassette, 102A, 102B Upper side column exterior cover, 102b, 201b, 202a, 442a, 442b, 501b, 502b, 601a Recess, 102p Step, 105 Paper feed roller, 107C, 107K, 107M, 107Y Developer unit, 108C, 108K, 108M, 108Y Photosensitive unit, 109 Intermediate transfer belt, 110 Registration roller, 112 Secondary transfer roller, 113 Fixing section, 114 Paper discharge tray, 116 Manual feed tray, 140 Scanner , 201A, 201B Image reading surface vertical exterior cover, 201p, 202p end, 202A, 202B Image reading surface lateral exterior cover, 301A, 301B Intermediate side exterior cover, 301a Protrusion, 302A, 302B Intermediate side column exterior cover, 302a Hole, 402 Ejecting paper holder, 441A, 441B Ejected paper top cover, 442A, 442B Second intermediate side cover, 501A, 501B First intermediate side cover, 502A, 502B Front open / close exterior panel, 502c Reinforcement Rib, 601 body resin mold, 602A, 602B nested.

Claims (8)

An exterior cover of an image forming apparatus used for each of the first image forming apparatus covered with the first exterior cover and the second image forming apparatus covered with the second exterior cover,
The first outer cover and the second outer cover are made of different materials,
The first exterior cover includes a first A component cover and a second A component cover,
The second exterior cover includes a first B component cover and a second B component cover,
The external shape of the first A component cover and the first B component cover is the same,
The external shape of the second A component cover and the second B component cover is the same,
In the interior view shape of the first A configuration cover and the first B configuration cover, there are regions having different shapes from each other,
Even in the introspection shape of the second A configuration cover and the second B configuration cover, by having regions having different shapes,
The first A configuration cover cannot be used as the first exterior cover or the second exterior cover in combination with the second B configuration cover.
In combination with the first A configuration cover, the second configuration cover cannot be used as the first exterior cover and the second exterior cover.
Exterior cover for image forming apparatus. The first A component cover and the second A component cover are used so that the ends of each other are abutted,
The first B configuration cover and the second B configuration cover are used so that the ends of each other are abutted,
Either the inward shape at the abutting portion between the first A component cover and the second A component cover, or the inward shape at the abutting portion between the first B component cover and the second B component cover are mutually connected. An uneven portion to be fitted is provided, and any other butted portion is not provided with an uneven portion to be fitted to each other.
The exterior cover of the image forming apparatus according to claim 1. The first A configuration cover and the second A configuration cover are used so as to overlap each other.
The first B configuration cover and the second B configuration cover are used so as to overlap each other,
In the interior shape of the overlapping portion of the first A component cover and the second A component cover, a hole is provided on one side, and a protrusion that fits into the hole is provided on the other side.
Even in the introspection shape in the overlapping portion of the first B configuration cover and the second B configuration cover, a hole is provided on one side, and a projection that fits into the hole is provided on the other side.
The position of the hole and the protrusion of the first exterior cover is different from the position of the hole and the protrusion of the second exterior cover.
The exterior cover of the image forming apparatus according to claim 1. The first A component cover and the second A component cover are used so that the ends of each other are abutted,
The first B configuration cover and the second B configuration cover are used so that the ends of each other are abutted,
In the introspection shape in the butt portion of the first A configuration cover and the second A configuration cover, the butt portion is provided with an uneven portion that fits together,
Even in the introspection shape in the butt portion of the first B configuration cover and the second B configuration cover, the butt portion is provided with an uneven portion that fits together,
The shape of the uneven portion of the first exterior cover is different from the shape of the uneven portion of the second exterior cover.
The exterior cover of the image forming apparatus according to claim 1. In the interior shape of the first exterior cover, a plurality of reinforcing ribs are provided,
A plurality of reinforcing ribs are also provided in the interior shape of the second exterior cover,
The material strength of the first exterior cover is weaker than the material strength of the second exterior cover,
The number of the reinforcing ribs provided in the first exterior cover is provided more than the number of the reinforcing ribs provided in the second exterior cover.
The exterior cover of the image forming apparatus according to claim 1. The material used for the first exterior cover and the second exterior cover, one of which is a recycled resin material, and the other is a non-recycled resin material,
The exterior cover of the image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5. The stamp displayed on the first exterior cover is different from the stamp displayed on the second exterior cover.
The exterior cover of the image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6. The 1A configuration cover and the 1B configuration cover are:
Molded using the same shape of the main body resin molding mold, the first A component cover, and a nesting that can be replaced only for the different parts of the shape of the first B component cover,
The second A configuration cover and the second B configuration cover are:
The same shape of the main body resin molding mold, the second A configuration cover, and a nesting that can be replaced only with respect to the different parts of the shape of the second B configuration cover are molded using,
The exterior cover of the image forming apparatus of any one of Claims 1-7.

Images