JP6882393B2 - Process cartridge and electrophotographic image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a process cartridge and an electrophotographic image forming apparatus to which the process cartridge is detachably mounted.

Here, in the present invention, the process cartridge integrally forms a cartridge of the electrophotographic photosensitive member and the process means acting on the electrophotographic photosensitive member, and is detachably attached to the main body of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus. Is to be done. For example, an electrophotographic photosensitive member and at least one of a developing means, a charging means, and a cleaning means as the process means are integrally formed into a cartridge. Therefore, for example, an electrophotographic photosensitive member, a charging means as the process means, and a cleaning means integrated into a cartridge can be mentioned. Further, for example, an electrophotographic photosensitive member and a developing means as the process means are integrally formed into a cartridge.

Further, the electrophotographic image forming apparatus is an device that forms an image on a recording medium by using an electrophotographic image forming method. Examples of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus include, for example, an electrophotographic copying machine, an electrophotographic printer (LED printer, laser beam printer, etc.), a facsimile machine, a word processor, and the like.

Further, the apparatus main body of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus is an electrophotographic image forming apparatus portion excluding the process cartridge.

Conventionally, a process cartridge method has been adopted in an electrophotographic image forming apparatus using an electrophotographic image forming process. According to this process cartridge method, the maintenance of the image forming apparatus can be performed by the user himself / herself regardless of the service person. Therefore, the operability of maintenance can be remarkably improved.

Further, conventionally, in a process cartridge, the following configuration is known in order to receive a rotational driving force for rotating an electrophotographic photosensitive member drum (hereinafter, referred to as a photosensitive member drum) from an apparatus main body.

A rotating body for transmitting the driving force of the motor to the device main body side, and a non-circular twist provided at the center of the rotating body, the cross section of which rotates integrally with the rotating body has a plurality of corners. Has a hole.

On the process cartridge side, it has a non-circular twisted protrusion provided at one end in the longitudinal direction of the photoconductor drum, which is fitted with the hole and has a plurality of corners in cross section.

Then, when the process cartridge is mounted on the main body of the apparatus, when the rotating body rotates with the protrusions fitted to the holes, the rotation is performed with the protrusions receiving a pulling force in the direction of the holes. The rotational force of the body is transmitted to the photoconductor drum. As a result, the rotational force for rotating the photoconductor drum is transmitted from the main body to the photoconductor drum (Patent Document 1). This technique is effective as a configuration for transmitting a rotational force to the photoconductor drum.

Japanese Patent No. 2875203

The present invention is a further development of the above-mentioned conventional technique.

An object of the present invention is to provide a process cartridge that realizes highly accurate positioning of the coupling on the process cartridge side that receives the rotational force from the apparatus main body and the rotational force applying portion on the apparatus main body side in the axial direction. It is a thing.

Another object of the present invention is a device that does not have a mechanism for moving a rotating body on the main body side as a driving force applying unit for transmitting a rotational force to the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum by opening and closing the main body cover in the axial direction. It provides a process cartridge that is mounted on the main body.

Another object of the present invention is to improve the rotational accuracy of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum as compared with the case where gears and gear meshes are used to transmit the rotational force between the apparatus main body and the process cartridge. It provides a process cartridge.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an electrophotographic image forming apparatus to which the process cartridge can be attached and detached.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a process cartridge capable of accurately positioning the longitudinal direction of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum with the apparatus main body.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a process cartridge capable of accurately positioning the axial direction of the coupling with the apparatus main body.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an electrophotographic image forming apparatus to which the process cartridge can be attached and detached.

A typical configuration of the process cartridge according to the present invention for achieving the above object is
In a process cartridge that is detachably attached to the main body of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus having a rotational force applying portion.
Photosensitive drum and
A flange member provided at one end in the longitudinal direction of the photosensitive drum and rotatable together with the photosensitive drum,
A frame unit that supports the photosensitive drum and
A coupling that receives a rotational force for rotating the photosensitive drum from the rotational force applying portion while the process cartridge is mounted on the apparatus main body, and is a flange that can be tilted with respect to the axis of the photosensitive drum. A coupling member connected to the member and the process cartridge are provided on the device body in order to restrict the movement of the frame unit in the longitudinal direction of the photosensitive drum while the process cartridge is mounted on the device body. The first cartridge-side positioned portion provided on the frame unit that engages with the first main body-side positioning portion, and the positioned portion on the first cartridge side.
In order to restrict the movement of the photosensitive drum in the longitudinal direction from one end side to the other end side, a first regulation portion provided on the frame unit and a first regulation portion.
With the first regulated portion provided on the flange member so as to be in contact with the first regulated portion in order to restrict the movement of the photosensitive drum in the longitudinal direction from the one end side to the other end side. ,
Have,
It is characterized in that a tapered portion is provided at an end portion of the first regulating portion in the rotation direction of the photosensitive drum.

Further, a typical configuration of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus according to the present invention for achieving the above object is an electrophotographic image forming apparatus in which a process cartridge is detachably attached to the apparatus main body of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus. ) First main body side positioning unit, ii) Second main body side positioning unit, iii) Third main body side positioning unit, iv) Electrophotographic photosensitive member drum, and electrostatics formed on the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum. A developing roller for developing a latent image, a first frame unit that supports the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum, and a first frame unit that supports the developing roller and are swingably coupled to the first frame unit. A coupling in which the second frame unit and the process cartridge are mounted on the main body of the apparatus and receive a rotational force for rotating the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum from the main body of the apparatus. With the coupling attached to one end of the body drum and the process cartridge mounted on the apparatus main body, the movement of the first frame unit is restricted in the longitudinal direction of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum. Therefore, the radius of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum with respect to the apparatus main body with the first cartridge side positioned portion engaged with the first main body side positioning portion and the process cartridge mounted on the apparatus main body. In order to perform directional positioning, one end side of the first frame unit in the longitudinal direction engages with the second main body side positioning portion provided on the coaxial line with the axis of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum. The first frame unit for positioning the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum in the radial direction with respect to the device body with the second cartridge side positioned portion and the process cartridge mounted on the device body. A third cartridge-side positioned portion that engages with the third main body-side positioning portion, which is provided on the coaxial line with the axis of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum, and the first frame on the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the In the longitudinal direction of the body unit, in order to restrict the movement of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum, the first unit side regulating portion provided in the first frame unit and the longitudinal direction of the first frame unit. A process cartridge having a first drum-side restricting portion provided on the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum so as to be in contact with the first unit-side restricting portion in order to restrict the movement of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum. And, characterized by having.

According to the present invention, it is possible to accurately position the coupling on the process cartridge side that receives the rotational force from the apparatus main body and the rotational force applying portion on the apparatus main body side in the axial direction.

Further, according to the present invention, a device not provided with a mechanism for moving a rotating body on the main body side as a driving force applying unit for transmitting a rotational force to the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum by opening and closing the main body cover in the axial direction. A process cartridge mounted on the body can be provided.

Further, according to the present invention, the process cartridge realized that the rotational accuracy of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum is improved as compared with the case where gears and gear meshes are used to transmit the rotational force between the apparatus main body and the process cartridge. Can be provided.

Further, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a process cartridge capable of accurately positioning the longitudinal direction of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum with the apparatus main body.

Further, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a process cartridge capable of accurately positioning the axial direction of the coupling with the apparatus main body.

Further, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide an electrophotographic image forming apparatus to which the process cartridge can be attached and detached.

It is sectional drawing of the image forming apparatus of an Example. It is an enlarged sectional view of a cartridge. It is a perspective view explaining the frame structure of the cartridge. It is a perspective explanatory view of the apparatus main body. It is a perspective explanatory view of the drive shaft of the apparatus main body. It is a perspective view of the coupling. It is explanatory drawing which shows the state which the coupling and the drive shaft are connected. It is sectional drawing which shows the state which the coupling and the drive shaft are connected. It is a perspective view explaining the coupling. It is a perspective view explaining a spherical member. It is sectional drawing explaining the coupling and the coupling part. It is a perspective view explaining a coupling and a coupling part. It is explanatory drawing explaining the drum flange. It is sectional drawing cut in S2-S2 of FIG. It is sectional drawing explaining the process of assembling a coupling to a drum flange in the state of being cut in S1-S1 of FIG. It is sectional drawing explaining the process of fixing a coupling to a drum flange in the state of being cut in S1-S1 of FIG. Explanatory perspective view of the photoconductor drum unit as seen from the drive side It is a perspective explanatory view of the photoconductor drum unit seen from the non-driving side. It is a perspective view explaining the support structure (drive side) of a photoconductor drum unit. It is a perspective view explaining the support structure (drive side) of a photoconductor drum unit. It is a perspective view explaining the support structure (drive side) of a photoconductor drum unit. It is a perspective view explaining the support structure (non-driving side) of a photoconductor drum unit. It is a perspective view which shows the guide rail guide for cartridge attachment / detachment of the drive side and non-drive side of the apparatus main body. It is a schematic diagram which shows the longitudinal positioning structure of a device body and a coupling. It is a perspective view explaining the fixing method of a drum and a flange. It is sectional drawing explaining the fixing method of a drum and a flange. It is sectional drawing which shows the relationship between the rib of the drum frame body, and the groove of a flange. It is sectional drawing explaining the insertion operation of a cartridge into the apparatus main body. It is a figure explaining the coupling operation in the process of inserting a cartridge into a device body. It is a figure explaining the coupling operation in the process of inserting a cartridge into a device body. It is a figure explaining the coupling operation in the process of inserting a cartridge into a device body. It is a figure explaining the coupling operation in the process of inserting a cartridge into a device body. It is a figure explaining the coupling operation in the process of inserting a cartridge into a device body. It is a figure explaining the coupling operation in the process of pulling out a cartridge from a device main body.

Hereinafter, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail exemplarily with reference to the drawings and examples. However, unless otherwise specified, the functions, materials, shapes, functions, relative arrangements, etc. of the components described in this embodiment are intended to limit the scope of the present invention to those. is not it. Further, the materials, shapes, etc. of the members once described in the following description are the same as those in the first description unless otherwise specified.

[Example]
(overall structure)
FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an image forming apparatus main body 1 (hereinafter referred to as an apparatus main body) and a process cartridge 2 (hereinafter referred to as a cartridge) constituting the image forming apparatus in this embodiment. FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the cartridge 2. Hereinafter, the overall configuration of the image forming apparatus and the image forming process in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

This image forming apparatus is a laser beam printer using electrophotographic technology in which the cartridge 2 is detachably attached to and attached to the apparatus main body 1. When the cartridge 2 is mounted on the apparatus main body 1, the exposure apparatus (laser scanner unit) 3 is arranged on the upper side of the cartridge 2. Further, a sheet tray 4 containing a recording medium (sheet material) P to be image-formed is arranged under the cartridge 2. Further, the apparatus main body 1 includes a pickup roller 5a, a feeding roller 5b, a transport roller pair 5c, a transfer guide 6, a transfer charging roller 7, a transport guide 8, and a fixing device 9 along the transport direction of the sheet material P. A discharge roller pair 10, a discharge tray 11, and the like are arranged.

(Explanation of image formation process)
Next, the outline of the image formation process will be described. Based on the print start signal, the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum (hereinafter referred to as a drum) 20 is rotationally driven in the direction of arrow R1 at a predetermined peripheral speed (process speed). A charging roller 12 to which a bias voltage is applied is in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the drum 20, and the outer peripheral surface of the drum 20 is uniformly and uniformly charged by the charging roller 12.

The exposure apparatus 3 outputs a laser beam L modulated according to a time-series electric digital pixel signal of image information. The laser beam L enters the inside of the cartridge 2 from the exposure window 53 on the upper surface of the cartridge 2 to scan and expose the outer peripheral surface of the drum 20. As a result, an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image information is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the drum 20. This electrostatic latent image is visualized by the developer T (hereinafter referred to as toner) of the second frame unit 40 and developed as a toner image.

Further, the charging roller 12 is provided in contact with the drum 20 to charge the drum 20. The charging roller 12 is driven to rotate by the drum 20. Further, the second frame unit 40 supplies toner to the developing region of the drum 20 to develop a latent image formed on the drum 20.

The second frame unit 40 sends the toner T in the toner chamber 45 to the toner supply chamber 44 by the rotation of the stirring member 43. Then, the developing roller 41, which is a developing agent carrier having a built-in magnet roller (fixed magnet) 41a, is rotated, and a toner layer to which a triboelectric charge is applied by the developing blade 42 is formed on the surface of the developing roller 41. Then, the toner is transferred to the drum 20 according to the latent image to form a toner image and make it a visible image. The developing blade 42 defines the amount of toner on the peripheral surface of the developing roller 41 and imparts triboelectric charges.

On the other hand, at the same time as the output timing of the laser beam L, the sheet material P stored in the lower part of the apparatus main body 1 is fed from the sheet tray 4 by the pickup roller 5a, the feeding roller 5b, and the transport roller pair 5c. Then, the sheet material P is timing-supplied to the transfer position between the drum 20 and the transfer charging roller 7 via the transfer guide 6. At this transfer position, the toner image is sequentially transferred from the drum 20 to the sheet material P.

The sheet material P to which the toner image is transferred is separated from the drum 20 and conveyed to the fixing device 9 along the conveying guide 8. Then, the sheet material P passes through the nip portion of the fixing roller 9a and the pressure roller 9b constituting the fixing device 9. Pressurization / heat fixing treatment is performed at this nip portion, and the toner image is fixed to the sheet material P. The sheet material P that has undergone the toner image fixing process is conveyed to the paper ejection roller pair 10 and is ejected to the paper ejection tray 11.

On the other hand, after the transfer, the drum 20 is subjected to image formation starting from charging again after the residual toner on the outer peripheral surface is removed by the cleaning blade 52. The waste toner removed from the drum 20 is stored in the waste toner chamber 52a.

In the above, the charging roller 12, the developing roller 41, the cleaning blade 52 and the like are process means for acting on the drum 20.

(Process cartridge frame configuration)
FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating the frame structure of the cartridge 2. The frame structure of the cartridge 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3.

As shown in FIG. 2, the drum 20, the charging roller 12, and the cleaning blade 52 are attached to the drum frame 51 to form an integrated first frame unit 50.

On the other hand, the second frame unit 40 is composed of a toner storage container 40a and a lid 40b forming a toner chamber 45 for storing toner and a toner supply chamber 44. The toner storage container 40a and the lid 40b are integrally bonded by means such as welding.

Then, as shown in FIG. 3, the cartridge 2 is formed by oscillating the first frame unit 50 and the second frame unit 40 with each other by the coupling member 54 of the round pin.

That is, as shown in FIG. 3, the tip of the arm portion 55a formed on the side covers 55 arranged on both sides in the longitudinal direction of the second frame unit 40 (the axial direction of the developing roller 41) is parallel to the developing roller 41. Is provided with a round rotating hole 55b. When the arm portion 55a is inserted into the drum frame 51 at a predetermined position, the drum frame 51 has a fitting hole 51a for fitting the coupling member 54 coaxially with the rotating hole 55b (left side of FIG. 3). The fitting hole is not shown). By co-inserting the coupling member 54 into the rotation hole 55b and the fitting hole 51a, the first frame body unit 50 and the second frame body unit 40 are rotatably coupled around the coupling member 54. At this time, the compression coil spring 46 attached to the base of the arm portion 55a hits the drum frame body 51 and urges the second frame body unit 40 downward. As a result, the developing roller 41 (FIG. 2) is securely pressed in the direction of the drum 20. Spacing members (not shown) are attached to both ends of the developing roller 41, and the developing roller 41 is held at a predetermined distance from the drum 20.

Further, a coupling member 150 for rotating the drum 20 from the apparatus main body 1 is provided on one end side of the first frame body unit 50 in the longitudinal direction. In the following description, the side where the coupling 150 is provided is referred to as a driving side and the opposite side is referred to as a non-driving side with respect to the longitudinal direction of the drum 20.

(Process cartridge rotational force transmission method)
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the apparatus main body 1 in which the cartridge door (main body cover, opening / closing door) 109 is opened to show the inside. Cartridge 2 is not installed. A method of transmitting a rotational force to the cartridge 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 4, the apparatus main body 1 is provided with mounting means 130 which is a guide rail for attaching and detaching the cartridge, and the cartridge 2 is mounted in the device main body 1 along the mounting means 130. At this time, in conjunction with the mounting operation of the cartridge 2, the coupling member 150 (FIG. 3: hereinafter, coupling) which is a rotational force transmission component (rotational force receiving member) possessed by the drive shaft 100 of the apparatus main body 1 and the cartridge 2. Is described) and is combined. As a result, the drum 20 receives a rotational force from the device main body 1 and rotates.

1) Explanation of the drive shaft 100 FIG. 5 is a perspective explanatory view of the drive shaft 100 on the device main body 1 side. The drive shaft 100 is connected to a drive transmission means such as a gear train (not shown) and a motor provided in the apparatus main body 1. The tip portion 100a of the drive shaft 100 has a substantially hemispherical shape, and has a rotational force transmission pin 100b as a rotational force applying portion.

2) Explanation of the coupling 150 FIG. 6 is a perspective explanatory view of the coupling 150. The material of the coupling 150 is, for example, a resin such as polyacetal, polycarbonate, or PPS. However, in order to increase the rigidity of the coupling 150, glass fiber, carbon fiber or the like may be blended in the resin according to the load torque. When the above materials are blended, the rigidity of the coupling 150 can be increased. Further, a metal may be inserted into the resin to further increase the rigidity, or the entire coupling may be made of metal or the like.

A plurality of driven transmission protrusions 150d (150d1 to 150d4) are arranged at the tip of the coupling 150. Further, the driven transmission protrusion 150d (150d1 to 150d4) is provided with a rotational force receiving portion 150e (150e1 to 150e4) inclined with respect to the axis L150 of the coupling 150. Further, a conical recess 150f is provided inside the driven transmission protrusions 150d1 to 150d4.

3) Explanation of the coupled state of the drive shaft 100 and the coupling 150 FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the coupling 150 and the drive shaft 100 are coupled. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the coupling 150 and the drive shaft 100 are coupled. The coupling state of the drive shaft 100 and the coupling 150 will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8.

The rotational force transmission pin 100b of the drive shaft 100 is engaged with the rotational force receiving portions 150e (150e1 to 150e4). Although not visible in FIG. 7, the rotational force transmission pin 100b on the back side is also engaged with the rotational force receiving portion 150e. Further, the tip portion 100a of the drive shaft 100 is in contact with the recess 150f of the coupling 150. As the drive shaft 100 rotates, the rotational force is transmitted from the rotational force transmission pin 100b to the rotational force receiving portion 150e. Further, since the rotational force receiving portion 150e is inclined with respect to the axis L150 of the coupling 150, the coupling 150 and the drive shaft 100 are attracted to each other, and the tip portion 100a and the recess 150f are surely in contact with each other to ensure a stable rotational force. Transmission becomes possible.

As described above, the coupling 150 is attached to one end of the drum 20 and receives a rotational force for rotating the drum 20 from the device main body 1 in a state where the cartridge 2 is mounted on the device main body 1.

4) Explanation of the coupling 150 and the coupling part FIG. 9 is a perspective view for explaining the coupling 150, FIG. 10 is a perspective view for explaining the spherical member 160, and FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view and a view for explaining the coupling 150 and the coupling component. 12 is a perspective view illustrating the coupling 150 and the coupling component.

As shown in FIG. 9, a through hole 150r is provided at an end portion 150s located on the opposite side of the coupling 150 from the rotational force receiving portion 150e. Further, as shown in FIG. 10, the spherical member 160 to be coupled to the coupling 150 has a substantially spherical shape, and a hole for inserting the coupling 150 and the pin 155 (rotational force transmitting portion) described later is provided. ing. The bag-shaped hole 160a is for inserting the end portion 150s of the coupling. Further, the through hole 160b is a hole for inserting a pin 155, which will be described later, and also penetrates the bag-shaped hole 160a.

As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the end portion 150s of the coupling 150 is inserted into the bag-shaped hole 160a of the spherical member 160, and the through hole 150r and the through hole 160b are overlapped on a straight line while maintaining a positional relationship. Insert pin 155. In this embodiment, the coupling 150 and the bag-shaped hole 160a are gap-fitted, the pin 155 and the through hole 150r are gap-fitted, and the pin 155 and the through hole 160b are tightly fitted. Therefore, the pin 155 and the spherical member 160 are integrally connected. This coupling state is referred to as coupling coupling 156.

When a rotational force is received from the drive shaft 100, the coupling 150 rotates around the axis L150, and the through hole 150r engages with the pin 155. That is, the rotational force from the device main body 1 is converted into a force that rotates the pin 155 around the rotation axis L150 through the coupling 150.

5) Transmission of rotational force from the coupling coupling 156 to the drum 20 FIG. 13 is an explanatory view for explaining the drum flange 151 (hereinafter, referred to as a flange), and FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line S2-S2 of FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a process of assembling the coupling 150 to the flange 151 in a state of being cut by S1-S1 of FIG. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a process of fixing the coupling 150 to the flange 151 in a state of being cut by S1-S1 of FIG. FIG. 17 is a perspective explanatory view of the photoconductor drum unit 21 as viewed from the drive side (coupling 150 side), and FIG. 18 is a perspective explanatory view of the photoconductor drum unit 21 as viewed from the non-drive side (opposite to the coupling 150 side). Is.

An example of the flange 151 to which the coupling 150 is attached will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 and 14. FIG. 13 is a view of the flange 151 viewed from the drive shaft 100 side. The opening 151g (151g1 to 151g4) shown in FIG. 13 is a groove provided in the rotation axis direction of the flange 151. When the coupling 150 is attached to the flange 151, the pin 155 fits in any two of the openings 151g1 to 151g4. Further, a rotational force transmitting surface (rotating force transmitting portion) 151h (151h1 to 151h4) is provided on the upstream side of the openings 151g1 to 151g4 in the clockwise direction. Then, when the rotational force is transmitted from the pin 155 to the flange 151, the pin 155 and the rotational force transmission surface 151h come into contact with each other. Further, a space (recessed portion 151f) is provided in the vicinity of the central axis L151 of the flange 151.

The recess 151f is a space surrounded by a cylindrical surface 151j (151j1 to 151j4), a retaining portion 151i (151i1 to 151i4), and an opening 151k (151k1 to 151k4). In the above, the cylindrical surface 151j (151j1 to 151j4) is a substantially cylindrical surface adjacent to the opening 151g and having the axis L151 as the central axis, and is a cylindrical surface portion having a diameter of φD151a. The retaining portion 151i (151i1 to 151i4) is a substantially hemispherical surface that is smoothly continuous with the cylindrical surface 151j, and is a part of the radius SR151. The opening 151k (151k1 to 151k4) is an opening portion having a diameter of φD151b located on the drive shaft 100 side of the retaining portion 151i.

The relationship between the spherical member 160 and the external dimension φD160 is as follows (see FIGS. 14 and 15).

φD151b <φD160 <φD151a≈2 × SR151
The spherical member 160 can be inserted into the recess 151f with a gap G, but it is restricted from moving to the opening 151k side of the axis L151. Due to this regulation, the spherical member 160 (coupling coupling 156) does not come off from the flange 151 (process cartridge 2) under normal use conditions.

The process of assembling and fixing the coupling 150 to the flange 151 will be described with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16. The end portion 150s is inserted into the flange 151 from the direction of arrow X1. Next, the spherical member 160 is covered from the direction of arrow X2. Further, after aligning the through hole 160b of the spherical member 160 and the through hole 150r at the end 150s in a straight line, the pin 155 is inserted from the direction of the arrow X3. The pin 155 penetrates the through hole 160b and the through hole 150r. Since the inner diameters of the through hole 160b and the through hole 150r are set smaller than those of the pin 155, a frictional force is generated between the pin 155 and the through hole 160b. In this embodiment, the press-fitting allowance is set to about 50 μm.

As a result, the pin 155 is held without being displaced during normal use, and the coupling coupling 156 is integrally coupled.

Further, the coupling coupling 156 is moved in the X4 direction, and the spherical member 160 is brought into contact with or close to the retaining portion 151i.

Next, the retaining member 157 is inserted in the direction of arrow X4 and fixed to the flange 151. Since the spherical member 160 and the backlash (gap) are left, the coupling 150 can change its direction.

Next, the configuration of the photoconductor drum unit 21 will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 and 18. The flange 151 to which the coupling coupling 156 is attached is fixed to one end side of the drum 20 so that the driven transmission protrusion 150d is exposed. Further, the non-driving side drum flange 152 is fixed to the other end side of the drum 20. This fixing method uses caulking, adhesion, welding, or the like.

Next, the support configuration of the photoconductor drum unit 21 will be described with reference to FIGS. 19 to 22. As shown in FIGS. 19 to 21, the flange 151 provided on the drive side of the photoconductor drum unit 21 has a drum gear 151c as a gear for transmitting the rotational force of the flange to the developing gear 41b of the developing roller 41, and one end thereof. It has a shaft portion 151v as a side drum shaft. The shaft portion 151v is rotatably held by the holding portion 158d of the bearing (bearing member) 158. The gear 151c is integrally molded with the flange 151. Further, as shown in FIG. 22, the drum shaft 202 as the other end side drum shaft that supports the drum 20 is fixed to the drum frame 51 by press fitting or the like. The photoconductor drum unit 21 is rotatably supported by the drum shaft 202 at the hole portion 152a of the non-driving side drum flange 152.

Here, the drum gear 151c is a spiral tooth gear, and the urging force (thrust force) that urges the gear 151c from one end side to the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the drum 20 in the twisting direction. Occurs. The longitudinal direction (axis direction) of the drum 20 coincides with the longitudinal direction of the cartridge 2.

The gear 151c transmits the rotational force received by the coupling 150 from the drive shaft 100 to the developing roller 41 via the developing gear 41b. As a result, the developing roller 41 rotates.

As described above, the drive shaft 100 rotates through the drive transmission means (not shown) such as gears of the device body 1 by the rotational force from the motor (not shown) of the device body 1. The rotational force is transmitted to the cartridge 2 via the coupling 150. Further, the rotational force is transmitted from the coupling 150 to the flange 151 through the pin 155, and the rotational force is delivered to the drum 20 which is integrally fixed to the flange 151.

(Cartridge attachment / detachment configuration)
Next, the mechanism for attaching / detaching the cartridge 2 to the apparatus main body 1 will be described. As shown in FIG. 23, the mounting means 130 of this embodiment has main body guides 130R and 130L provided on the device main body 1. These are provided so as to face the left and right side surfaces of the cartridge mounting space provided in the apparatus main body 1. In FIG. 23, (a) shows the driving side and (b) shows the non-driving side. The cartridge 2 (not shown) is attached and detached along the main body guides 130R and 130L. In order to mount the cartridge 2 on the device main body 1, the cartridge door 109 (FIG. 4) provided on the device main body 1 is opened. Then, after the cartridge 2 is mounted, the cartridge door 109 is closed to complete the mounting of the cartridge 2 on the device main body 1. When the cartridge 2 is taken out from the apparatus main body 1, the taking-out operation is performed by opening the cartridge door 109. These operations are performed by the user.

As shown in FIGS. 19 and 21, a cartridge guide 51R protruding outward from the drum frame 51 is provided at the drive side end of the first frame unit 50 included in the cartridge 2. Further, as shown in FIG. 22, a cartridge guide 51L is provided at the non-driving side end portion.

When the cartridge 2 is attached to and detached from the apparatus main body 1, the cartridge guide 51R shown in FIG. 21 and the cylindrical portion 158c of the bearing member 158 are guided by the main body guide 130R shown in FIG. 23 (a). Further, the cartridge guide 51L shown in FIG. 22 and the cylindrical portion 51e of the drum frame body 51 are guided by the main body guide 130L shown in FIG. 23 (b). In this way, the cartridge 2 is attached to and detached from the apparatus main body 1 by moving it in a direction substantially orthogonal to the axial direction of the drive shaft 100.

Next, the mounting operation of the cartridge 2 with respect to the device main body 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 28. FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 4 cut by S1-S1. As shown in FIG. 28, the cartridge door 109 is opened by the user. Then, the cartridge guide 51R and the cylindrical portion 158c (cartridge guide 51L on the non-driving side, cylindrical portion 51e) are started to be inserted along the main body guide 130R (cartridge guide 130L on the non-driving side) (FIG. 28 (a)). .. When the cartridge 2 is inserted in the direction of the arrow X5 as it is, the cartridge 2 is mounted at a predetermined position (image forming position) through the engagement between the drive shaft 100 and the coupling 150 of the cartridge 2. At that time, the coupling 150 becomes the rotational force transmission angle position described later ((b) in FIG. 28).

When the cartridge 2 is settled in a predetermined position, the pressing springs 188R and 188L shown in FIGS. 23 (a) and 23 (b) allow the bearing member 158 to have the receiving portion 158e (FIG. 21) and the drum frame 51. The receiving portion 51 g (FIG. 22) to be held receives the pressing force. As a result, the cartridge 2 is accurately positioned with respect to the apparatus main body 1.

Here, the meaning of "substantially orthogonal" will be described. A slight gap is provided between the cartridge 2 and the apparatus main body 1 in order to smoothly attach / detach the cartridge 2. Therefore, when the cartridge 2 is attached to and detached from the apparatus main body 1, the entire cartridge 2 may be slightly inclined within the range of the gap. Even in such a case, the action and effect of the present invention can be achieved. Therefore, it is referred to as "substantially orthogonal" even when the cartridge is slightly tilted.

(Explanation of operation of coupling 150)
Next, the relationship between the main body guide 130R, the slider 131, and the coupling 150 during the mounting operation of the cartridge 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 29 and 30. 29 is a side view seen from the drive shaft 100 side, and FIG. 30 is a ZZ cross section of FIG. 29.

As shown in FIG. 29, the cartridge 2 moves on the drive side in a state where the cylindrical portion 158c of the bearing member 158 is in contact with the guide surface 130R1b. At this time, as shown in FIG. 30, the connecting portion 150c of the coupling 150 is provided with a gap of n1 with respect to the guide rib 130R1c. Therefore, no force is applied to the coupling 150. Further, as shown in FIG. 29, the coupling 150 is regulated by the regulating portion 158f from the upper surface to the left surface. Therefore, the coupling 150 is set so that it can be freely inclined only with respect to the mounting direction X5. The slider 131 maintains the urging position (the position where it abuts upward) by the elastic force of the pressing spring 132.

FIG. 31 is a diagram showing a state in which the coupling 150 comes into contact with the slider 131 and the slider 131 moves from the urging position to the retracted position. Due to the entry of the coupling 150 that can be inclined only in the mounting direction X5, the connecting portion 150c and the slope 131a (FIG. 32) of the protruding portion of the slider 131 come into contact with each other. As a result, the slider 131 is pushed down and moved to the retracted position.

FIG. 32 shows a state after the coupling 150 has passed over the apex 131b of the slider 131. When the coupling 150 gets over the apex 131b, the slider 131 tries to return from the retracted position to the urging position by the elastic force of the pressing spring 132. At that time, a part of the joint 150c of the coupling 150 receives the force F from the slope 131c of the slider 131. That is, the slope 131c functions as a force applying portion, and a part of the connecting portion 150c receives the above force as the force receiving portion 150p. The force F is divided into component forces F1 and F2. At this time, the upper surface of the coupling 150 is regulated by the regulation portion 158f. Therefore, the coupling 150 is inclined in the mounting direction X5 by the component force F2. By tilting, the coupling 150 moves to the pre-engagement angular position.

Next, the engagement operation between the coupling 150 and the drive shaft 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 33. FIG. 33 is a vertical cross-sectional view seen from below the main body of the apparatus.

In FIG. 33A, in the mounting process of the cartridge 2 (not shown), the cartridge 2 is mounted on the device main body 1 (not shown) from a direction substantially orthogonal to the axis L3 of the drive shaft 100 (arrow X5 direction). Will be done. In the coupling 150, the axis L2 of the coupling 150 is preliminarily inclined to the mounting direction X5 with respect to the axis L1 of the drum 20 as the angle position before engagement. By inclining the coupling 150, the tip portion 150A1 (a part of the coupling 150) is located on the side of the shaft tip 100c3 in the direction in which the drum 20 is provided in the direction of the axis L1. Further, the tip portion 150A2 is located in the direction of the rotational force transmission pin 100b with respect to the shaft tip 100c3.

In FIG. 33B, first, the tip portion 150A1 passes through the shaft tip 100c3. After that, the drive bearing surface 150f as a recess provided on the rotation axis of the mortar-shaped coupling 150 or the driven protrusion 150d comes into contact with the shaft tip 100c3 or the rotational force transmission pin 100b. .. Here, the receiving surface 150f and / or the protrusion 150d is the cartridge side contact portion. Further, the shaft tip 100c3 and / or the rotational force transmission pin 100b is the main body side engaging portion.

In FIG. 33 (c), the coupling 150 gradually inclines so as to be substantially a straight line with the axis L1 in accordance with the movement of the cartridge 2.

In FIG. 33D, when the position of the cartridge 2 is finally determined with respect to the apparatus main body 1, the drive shaft 100 and the drum 20 are substantially on the same straight line. That is, the axis L1 of the drum 20 and the axis L2 of the coupling 150 are on substantially the same straight line, and tilt from the angle position before engagement to the rotational force transmission angle position. Then, the coupling 150 and the drive shaft 100 are engaged with each other.

That is, the coupling 150 has a recess 150f on the rotation axis of the coupling. When the cartridge 2 is attached to the apparatus main body 1, the cartridge 2 is tilted from the pre-engagement angle position to the rotational force transmission angle position in response to the movement of the cartridge in a direction substantially orthogonal to the axis L1 of the drum 20. In this case, the coupling 150 is tilted so as to allow a part 150A1 of the coupling located on the downstream side to bypass the drive shaft 100 when viewed from the direction in which the cartridge is attached to the apparatus main body 1.

Then, in a state where the coupling 150 is located at the rotational force transmission angle position, the recess 150f covers the tip of the drive shaft 100. Further, the rotational force receiving portion 150e engages with the rotational force applying portion 100b provided on the tip end side of the drive shaft 100 in a direction orthogonal to the axis of the drive shaft 100 in the rotational direction of the coupling 150. As a result, the coupling 150 rotates by receiving a rotational force from the drive shaft 100.

The tip portion 150A1 which is a part of the coupling 150 is located in the direction in which the drum 20 is provided with respect to the shaft tip 100c3 at the angle position before engagement, and at the shaft tip 100c3 at the rotational force transmission angle position. On the other hand, it is located in the direction of the rotational force transmission pin 100b. Such a movement is expressed as "a part of the coupling bypasses the drive shaft".

Next, the operation of the coupling 150 when the cartridge 2 is taken out from the apparatus main body 1 will be described. FIG. 34 is a vertical cross-sectional view seen from below the main body of the apparatus.

In FIG. 34A, when the driving of the drum 20 is stopped, the coupling 150 is located on a substantially coaxial line with respect to the axis L1 as the rotational force transmission angle position.

In FIG. 34 (b), the cartridge 2 moves to the front side (take-out direction X6) of the apparatus main body 1, and the drum 20 moves to the front side. In response to this movement, the recess 150f or the protrusion 150d of the coupling 150 comes into contact with at least the shaft tip 100c3 of the drive shaft 100, and the axis L2 starts tilting toward the upstream side of the take-out direction X6. This tilting direction is the same as the tilting direction of the coupling 150 when the cartridge 2 is mounted.

In FIG. 34 (c), when the cartridge 2 is further moved in the X6 direction, the upstream tip portion 150A3 in the X6 direction is tilted to reach the shaft tip 100c3. The angle of the coupling 150 at this time is the detachment angle position.

In (d) of FIG. 34, in this state, the coupling 150 passes while contacting the shaft tip 100c3. Although the angle formed by the axis L1 and the axis L2 is different from that at the time of mounting, the movement of the tip portion 150A3, which is a part of the coupling 150, bypasses the shaft tip 100c3 is the same as at the time of mounting.

Therefore, even when the cartridge is taken out, it is expressed as "a part of the coupling bypasses the drive shaft".

The location of the tip portion 150A3 changes depending on the phase when the coupling 150 is stopped. When the protrusion is 150d, when the rib is arcuate 150g (FIG. 9), both may be formed. In either case, the tip portion 150A3, which is a part of the coupling, is used.

After that, the cartridge 2 is taken out from the apparatus main body 1.

That is, when the cartridge 2 is removed from the apparatus main body 1, the coupling 150 moves from the rotational force transmission angle position to the detachment angle position in response to moving the cartridge in a direction substantially orthogonal to the axis L1 of the drum 20. Tilt. In this case, the coupling 150 prevents the part 150A3 of the coupling located behind the drive shaft 100 from bypassing the drive shaft 100 when viewed from the direction opposite to the removal direction in which the cartridge 2 is removed from the device main body 1. Tilt to allow. As a result, the coupling 150 is separated from the drive shaft 100.

Further, the coupling 150 is provided at the end of the drum 20 so as to be rotatable (inclinable) in substantially all directions with respect to the axis L1 of the drum 20. As a result, the coupling 150 can smoothly tilt between the pre-engagement angle position, the rotational force transmission angle position, and the disengagement angle position. Here, the rotation of the coupling means that the inclined axis L2 rotates around the axis L1 of the photoconductor drum, instead of the coupling itself rotating around the axis L2 of the coupling. However, it is not excluded that the coupling itself rotates around the axis L2 within the range of play or the gap provided positively.

That is, the coupling 150 can rotate so that the tip of the driven side 150a draws a circle centered on the axis L2 in a state where one end of the driving unit 150b on the drum 107 side is positioned on the axis L2.

Further, being able to turn (tilt) in substantially all directions means the following range. That is, when the user attaches the cartridge B to the apparatus main body A, the coupling 150 reaches the rotational force transmission angle position regardless of the phase at which the drive shaft 100 having the rotational force applying portion 100a is stopped. It is a range that can be tilted.

Further, it means a range in which the coupling 150 can be tilted to the detachment angle position regardless of the phase in which the drive shaft 100 is stopped when the user removes the cartridge 2 from the apparatus main body 1. To do.

Further, the coupling 150 has a rotational force transmission surface (rotational force transmission portion) 151h that engages with the pin 155 (rotational force transmission portion) pin 155 so that the coupling 150 can be inclined in substantially all directions with respect to the axis L1. There is a gap between and. In this way, the coupling 150 is attached to the end of the drum 20. Therefore, the coupling 150 can be tilted in substantially all directions with respect to the axis L1.

Further, according to the above-described embodiment, the process cartridge 2 can be attached to and detached from the apparatus main body 1 provided with the drive shaft 100 in a direction substantially orthogonal to the axis L3 of the drive shaft 100.

Further, according to the coupling 150, the process cartridge is moved in a direction substantially orthogonal to the axis of the drive shaft 100 without moving the drive gear provided in the device main body 1 in the axial direction thereof, and the device main body 1 is used. Can be attached and detached.

Further, according to the above-described embodiment, the drum 20 can be rotated smoothly in the drive connecting portion between the main body and the cartridge as compared with the case where the gears mesh with each other.

(Coupling positioning configuration)
Next, the positioning configuration of the coupling will be described. 19 and 20 are views showing the internal configurations of the photoconductor drum unit 21, the drum frame 51, and the bearing member 158 including the coupling 150. The drum frame 51 has a rib 200 as a regulation portion on the first unit side. The rib 200 has tapered portions 200a and 200b at the upstream end and the downstream end with respect to the rotation direction of the drum 20. The function of the tapered portion will be described later.
The cartridge 2 is attached to and detached from the apparatus main body 1 by the user from a direction substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the cartridge 2 (the longitudinal direction of the drum 20).

Further, the flange 151, which is a part of the photoconductor first frame unit 21, has a drum-side end surface 151s as a first drum-side regulation portion and a coupling-side end surface 151t as a second drum-side regulation portion. In this embodiment, the end surface 151s as the first drum side regulation portion is provided at one end of the gear 151c of the flange 151, and the end surface 151t on the coupling side as the second drum side regulation portion is the other end of the gear 151c. It is provided in the part.

Further, the bearing member 158 has an end face 158a as a second unit side regulating portion. When the photoconductor drum unit 21 is assembled by the drum frame 51 and the bearing member 158, the rib 200 of the drum frame 51 and the end surface 151s of the flange 151, and the end surface 151t of the flange 151 and the end surface 158a of the bearing member 158 They face each other.

21 to 23 are views for explaining the positioning portion of the cartridge 2 and the apparatus main body 1. In FIG. 21, the bearing member 158 has a groove 158b as a first cartridge side positioned portion and a cylindrical portion 158c as a second cartridge side positioned portion. In FIG. 23, the guide member 130R of the apparatus main body 1 has a rib 130Ra as a positioning portion on the first main body side and a recess 130Rb as a positioning portion on the second main body side. When the cartridge 2 is mounted on the apparatus main body 1, the groove 158b and the cylindrical portion 158c of the cartridge 2 are engaged with the rib 130Ra and the recess 130Rb of the apparatus main body 1, respectively.

That is, the cartridge 2 has a groove 158b that engages with the rib 130Ra in order to restrict the movement of the first frame unit 50 in the longitudinal direction of the drum 20 while being mounted on the apparatus main body 1. The groove 158b is provided in the unit 50. Further, the cartridge 2 has a cylindrical portion 158c that engages with the recess 130Rb in order to position the drum 20 in the radial direction with respect to the device main body 1 while being mounted on the device main body 1. The cylindrical portion 158c is provided on one end side in the longitudinal direction of the first frame unit 50 on a coaxial line with the axis of the drum 20.

In FIG. 22, the drum frame 51 has a cylindrical portion 51e as a positioned portion on the third cartridge side. Further, in FIG. 23B, the guide member 130L of the apparatus main body 1 has a recess 130La as a positioning portion on the third main body side. Also here, when the cartridge 2 is mounted on the apparatus main body 1, the cylindrical portion 51e of the cartridge 2 and the recess 130La of the apparatus main body are engaged with each other.

That is, the cartridge 2 has a cylindrical portion 51e that engages with the recess 130La in order to position the drum in the radial direction with respect to the device main body 1 while being mounted on the device main body 1. The cylindrical portion 51e is provided on the other end side of the first frame unit 50 in the longitudinal direction on a coaxial line with the axis of the drum 20.

As described above, the cartridge 2 is mounted on the apparatus main body 1 and is positioned at a predetermined position, and the groove 158b of the cartridge 2 and the rib 130Ra provided on the apparatus main body 1 are fitted to each other. The fitting is performed with a slight gap (play) between the two (groove 158b and rib 130Ra) in the longitudinal direction of the drum 20. As a result, when the cartridge 2 is mounted on the apparatus main body 1, even if the positions are slightly displaced, the cartridges 2 can be securely fitted to each other.
Also,
Further, the receiving surface 51f of the cylindrical portion of the drum frame 51 shown in FIG. 21 and the receiving portion 130Rc of the guide member 130R shown in FIG. 23 are engaged with each other.

With the above configuration, the cartridge 2 and the apparatus main body 1 are positioned.

Next, with reference to FIG. 23, the longitudinal positional relationship between the drive shaft 100 of the apparatus main body 1 and the coupling 150 of the cartridge 2 will be described.

(A) and (b) of FIG. 24 are schematic views showing a positioning configuration. (A) shows the case where the coupling 150 is closer to the drive side. As described above, the groove 158b of the bearing member 158 and the rib 130Ra of the guide 130R of the apparatus main body 1 are engaged with each other to determine the longitudinal positions of the bearing member 158 and the guide 130R. The rib 130Ra is closer to the drive side in the play with the groove 158b. Further, the end surface 158a of the bearing member 158 and the end surface 151t of the flange 151 come into contact with each other, and the longitudinal positions of the bearing member 158 and the flange 151 are restricted. At this time, the end surface 151s of the flange 151 and the rib 200 of the drum frame 51 do not come into contact with each other and have a gap.

FIG. 24B shows a case where the coupling 150 is closer to the non-driving side. The groove 158b of the bearing member 158 and the rib 130Ra of the guide 130R of the apparatus main body 1 are engaged with each other to determine the longitudinal positions of the bearing member 158 and the guide 130. However, the rib 130Ra is closer to the non-driving side in the play with the groove 158b. Further, the end surface 158a of the bearing member 158 and the end surface 151t of the flange 151 do not come into contact with each other and have a gap. The end face 151s of the flange 151 and the rib 200 of the drum frame 51 come into contact with each other, and the longitudinal positions of the flange 151 and the drum frame 51 are restricted.

In either case, the rotational force transmission pin 100b of the drive shaft 100 and the rotational force receiving portion 150e of the coupling 150 can maintain the positional relationship required for the transmission of the rotational force, and the drive transmission becomes possible. ..

(Explanation of tapered portions 200a and 200b)
As described in FIG. 24B, when the photoconductor drum unit 21 is assembled as the first frame unit 50, the end surface 151s of the flange 151 may rub against the rib 200 of the drum frame 51. .. At that time, depending on the contact state between the recess 151u of the flange 151 and the rib 200 shown in FIG. 25, uneven rotation of the drum 20 may occur, which may cause image defects. The recess 151u of the flange 151 has a shape required for manufacturing when the drum 20 and the flange 151 are joined by caulking.

Here, caulking will be briefly described. The caulking in the present embodiment is a method of fixing the drum 20 and the flange 151 by bending the end portion of the drum 20 with a tool (bending cut portion 20a) as shown in FIG. 25. This is one of the methods for fixing the metal drum 20 and the flange 151, and has been conventionally used. In addition to caulking, adhesion, press-fitting, or the like may be used as a method for connecting the drum 20 and the flange 151.

As shown in FIG. 26, the end surface 151s (not shown, shown in FIG. 24) of the drum 20 and the flange 151 was held in a state of being abutted against each other, and the groove portion of the flange 151 was pushed by the tool 201 to be bent and cut. Combine by location. At that time, it is necessary to provide a recess 151u for escaping the tool 201 on the end surface 151s (FIG. 25) of the flange.

In this embodiment, the drum 20 and the flange 151 are coupled by caulking to form the photoconductor drum unit 21.

Next, the relationship between the recess 151u and the rib 200 will be described. As shown in FIG. 27, the rib 200 is provided in a part of the flange 151 in the circumferential direction. The flange 151 receives a rotational force (driving force) from the apparatus main body 1 and rotates in the direction of the arrow. Then, when the recess 151u starts to hang on the rib 200 due to the rotation of the flange 151 (state (a) in FIG. 27) and when the recess 151u comes off the rib 200 (state (b) in FIG. 27). Therefore, the recess 151u and the rib 200 may be caught. This catching causes uneven rotation of the drum 20. In this embodiment, since there are two recesses 151u, there is a possibility that the flange 151 will be caught four times while making one round.

Therefore, as shown in FIG. 19A, tapers 200a and 200b are provided at both ends of the rib 200 in the circumferential direction so that the recess 151u and the rib 200 are not easily caught. That is, the rib 200 has tapered portions 200a and 200b at both ends with respect to the rotation direction of the drum flange. In FIGS. 27A and 27B, tapers 200a and 200b are provided at the locations indicated by hatching. As a result, it is possible to reduce image defects due to uneven rotation of the drum 20.

As described above, the cartridge 2 and the apparatus main body 1 can be positioned with high accuracy. As a result, it has become possible to achieve both a configuration in which the main body of the apparatus is not provided with a configuration in which the rotating body is moved in the direction of the rotation axis by opening and closing the main body cover, and a miniaturization of the main body of the apparatus and the process cartridge.

Further, according to the above-described embodiment, the rotational accuracy of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum can be improved as compared with the case where gears and gear meshes are used to transmit the rotational force between the apparatus main body and the process cartridge. ..

In the present invention, even when the apparatus main body is provided with a configuration in which the rotating body is moved in the direction of the rotation axis by opening and closing the main body cover, it is possible to reduce rattling when the apparatus main body 1 and the cartridge 2 are attached. Is. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the size of the apparatus main body 1 and the cartridge 2.

The configuration of the process cartridge 2 of the above-described embodiment is summarized as follows.

(1) A process cartridge 2 that has a rotational force applying portion 100b and is detachably mounted on the apparatus main body 1 of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus. Then, the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20, the developing roller 41 for developing the electrostatic latent image formed on the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum, and the first frame unit 50 for supporting the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum are provided. Have. Further, it has a second frame unit 40 that supports the developing roller and is swingably coupled to the first frame unit. Further, it has a coupling 150 that receives a rotational force for rotating the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 from the device main body 1 in a state where the process cartridge 2 is mounted on the device main body 1. The coupling 150 is attached to one end of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20. It has a first cartridge-side positioned portion 158b that engages with the first main body-side positioning portion 130Ra provided on the apparatus main body 1. The first cartridge-side positioned portion 158b regulates the movement of the first frame unit in the longitudinal direction of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum with the process cartridge mounted on the apparatus main body. Further, it has a second cartridge side positioned portion 158c that engages with the second main body side positioning portion 130Rb provided on the device main body 1. The second cartridge-side positioned portion 158c positions the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum in the radial direction with respect to the device main body in a state where the process cartridge is mounted on the device main body. The second cartridge-side positioned portion 158c is provided on one end side in the longitudinal direction of the first frame unit 50 on a coaxial line with the axis of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum. Further, it has a third cartridge side positioned portion 51e that engages with the third main body side positioning portion 130La provided in the device main body 1. The third cartridge-side positioned portion 51e positions the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum in the radial direction with respect to the device main body in a state where the process cartridge is mounted on the device main body. Further, the third cartridge side positioned portion 51e is provided on the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the first frame body unit 50 on a coaxial line with the axis of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum. Further, in order to restrict the movement of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum in the longitudinal direction of the first frame body unit 50, the first unit side regulating unit 200 provided in the first frame body unit is provided. Further, in order to restrict the movement of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum in the longitudinal direction of the first frame body unit 50, the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum is provided so as to be in contact with the first unit side regulating unit 200. It has the first drum side regulation unit 151s.

With this configuration, the coupling 150 on the process cartridge 2 side that receives the rotational force from the apparatus main body 1 and the rotational force applying portion 100b on the apparatus main body side can be accurately positioned in the axial direction. Further, the positioning of the photoconductor drum 20 in the axial direction can be performed with high accuracy.

(2) The first drum side restricting unit 151s restricts the movement of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum that tends to move from the one end side to the other end side of the first frame unit 50. Further, in order to restrict the movement of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum that tends to move from the other end side of the first frame body unit to the one end side, the second drum side regulating portion 151t is provided. The second drum side regulating unit 151t is provided on the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum so that the first frame body unit 50 is provided with the second unit side regulating portion 158a and is in contact with the second unit side regulating portion. There is.
With this configuration, it is possible to restrict the photoconductor drum 20 from moving in the axial direction. Therefore, the axial direction of the photoconductor drum 20 can be reliably positioned on the apparatus main body 1. Further, the axial direction of the coupling 150 can be reliably positioned on the apparatus main body 1.

(3) A drum flange 151 is provided on one end side of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20. Then, the coupling 150 is attached to the drum flange 151 so as to be inclined. Further, a bearing member 158 that rotatably supports the shaft portion of the drum flange 151 is attached to the drum frame 51. The first cartridge side positioned portion 158b and the second unit side regulation portion are provided on the bearing member, and the first drum side regulation portion and the second drum side regulation portion 151t are provided. Is provided on the drum flange 151.

With this configuration, the coupling 150 on the process cartridge 2 side that receives the rotational force from the apparatus main body 1 and the rotational force applying portion 100a on the apparatus main body side can be positioned in the axial direction with higher accuracy.

(4) The drum flange 151 has a gear 151c, and the gear transmits the rotational force received by the coupling 150 from the apparatus main body 1 to the developing roller 41.

With this configuration, it is possible to reduce the cost by integrating the parts. Further, the tooth width of the gear can be narrowed, and the device can be miniaturized.

(5) The coupling 150 engages with the rotational force applying portion 100b of the drive shaft 100 provided in the apparatus main body 1 to receive a rotational force for rotating the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20. .. Then, the coupling 150 can position the rotational force transmission angle for transmitting the rotational force for rotating the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 to the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20. Further, the coupling 150 has a pre-engagement angle position inclined in a direction away from the axis L1 of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 from the rotational force transmission angle position, and the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum from the rotational force transmission angle position. It is possible to take a detachment angle position inclined in the direction away from the axis of. Then, when the process cartridge is moved and attached to the apparatus main body in a direction orthogonal to the axis of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum, the coupling 150 moves from the angle position before engagement to the rotational force transmission angle position. Move to. As a result, the coupling 150 faces the drive shaft 100. Further, when the process cartridge is removed from the main body of the apparatus in a direction orthogonal to the axis of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum, the coupling 150 moves from the rotational force transmission angle position to the detachment angle position. .. As a result, the coupling 150 is separated from the drive shaft.

With this configuration, it is attached to the main body of the device that does not have a mechanism for moving the main body side rotating body as a rotational force applying portion for transmitting the rotational force to the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 by opening and closing the main body cover in the axial direction. Process cartridges can be provided.

(6) The coupling 150 has a recess 150f on the rotation axis of the coupling. When the process cartridge is attached to the main body of the apparatus, the coupling 150 moves the process cartridge in a direction orthogonal to the axis of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum from the pre-engagement angle position. It tilts to the rotational force transmission angle position. In this case, the coupling 150 is tilted so as to allow a part of the coupling located on the downstream side to bypass the drive shaft when viewed from the direction in which the process cartridge is attached to the apparatus main body. Then, the recess 150f covers the tip of the drive shaft 100 in a state where the coupling 150 is located at the rotational force transmission angle position. Then, the rotational force receiving portion 150e engages with the rotational force applying portion 100b provided on the tip end side of the drive shaft 100 in a direction orthogonal to the axis of the drive shaft in the rotational direction of the coupling. It fits. As a result, the coupling receives a rotational force from the drive shaft and rotates. Then, when the process cartridge is removed from the main body of the apparatus, the detachment angle is changed from the rotational force transmission angle position in response to the movement of the process cartridge in the direction orthogonal to the axis of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum. Tilt to position. In this case, in the coupling 150, a part of the coupling located behind the drive shaft 100 bypasses the drive shaft when viewed from a direction opposite to the removal direction in which the process cartridge is removed from the apparatus main body. Tilt to allow that. As a result, the coupling is separated from the drive shaft.

With this configuration, it is attached to the main body of the device that does not have a mechanism for moving the main body side rotating body as a rotational force applying portion for transmitting the rotational force to the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 by opening and closing the main body cover in the axial direction. Process cartridges can be provided.

(7) The first unit side regulating portion 200 has tapered portions 200a and 200b at both ends with respect to the rotation direction of the drum flange 151.

With this configuration, the rotation unevenness of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 can be reduced, and the rotation accuracy of the photoconductor drum 20 can be improved.

(8) A process cartridge 2 that has a rotational force applying portion 100a and is detachably attached to the apparatus main body 1 of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus. The electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 and a drum flange provided at one end of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 include a drum flange 151 having a gear 151c and one end side drum shaft 151v. Further, the process cartridge 2 has a coupling 150 that receives a rotational force for rotating the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 from the rotational force applying unit 100a in a state of being mounted on the apparatus main body 1. The coupling 150 is attached to the drum flange 151. Further, it is a developing roller for developing an electrostatic latent image formed on the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20, and receives the rotational force received by the coupling 150 from the apparatus main body 1 from the gear 151c. It has a rotating developing roller 41. Further, one end of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 is supported by a bearing member 158 that supports the one end side drum shaft 151v, and the other end of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 is supported by the other end side drum shaft 202. It has a first frame unit 50 to be used. Further, it has a second frame unit 40 that supports the developing roller 41 and is swingably coupled to the first frame unit 50. Further, it has a first cartridge-side positioned portion that engages with the first main body-side positioning portion 130Ra provided on the device main body, and has the first cartridge-side positioned portion 158b provided on the bearing member. As a result, the movement of the first frame unit 50 is restricted in the longitudinal direction of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 with the process cartridge 2 mounted on the apparatus main body 1. Further, a second cartridge that engages with the second main body side positioning portion 130Rb provided on the coaxial line with the axis of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 at one end side in the longitudinal direction of the first frame body unit 50. It has a side positioned portion 158c. As a result, the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 is positioned in the radial direction with respect to the apparatus main body 1 provided in the apparatus main body in a state where the process cartridge 2 is attached to the apparatus main body 1. Further, the third main body side positioning portion 130La provided on the apparatus main body is provided on the coaxial line with the axis of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 on the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the first frame body unit 50. It has a third cartridge-side positioned portion 130La that engages with. As a result, the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 is positioned in the radial direction with respect to the apparatus main body 1 in a state where the process cartridge 2 is attached to the apparatus main body 1. Further, in order to regulate the movement of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 from the one end toward the other end in the longitudinal direction of the first frame unit 50, the first frame unit 50 is used. It has a first unit side regulating portion 200 provided on one end side in the longitudinal direction. Further, in order to regulate the movement of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 from the other end toward the one end in the longitudinal direction of the first frame unit 50, the bearing member 158 is provided. It has a second unit side regulation unit 158a. Further, it has a first drum side regulating portion 151a provided on the drum flange 151 so as to come into contact with the first unit side regulating portion 200. This restricts the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 from moving from one end thereof toward the other end in the longitudinal direction of the first frame unit 50. Further, it has a second drum side regulating portion 151t provided on the drum flange 151 so as to come into contact with the second unit side regulating portion 158a. This restricts the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 from moving from the other end toward the one end in the longitudinal direction of the first frame unit 50.

With this configuration, the coupling 150 on the process cartridge 2 side that receives the rotational force from the apparatus main body 1 and the rotational force applying portion 100a on the apparatus main body side can be accurately positioned in the axial direction.

(9) The first drum-side regulating portion 151s is provided at one end of the gear 151c, and the second drum-side regulating portion 151t is provided at the other end of the gear 151c.

With this configuration, it is possible to reduce the cost by integrating the parts. Further, the tooth width of the gear can be narrowed, and the device can be miniaturized.

(10) The first unit side regulating portion 200 has tapered portions 200a and 200b at both ends with respect to the rotation direction of the drum flange 151.

With this configuration, it was possible to reduce the uneven rotation of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 and improve the rotation accuracy of the drum 20.

(11) In the electrophotographic image forming apparatus in which the process cartridge 2 is detachably attached to the apparatus main body 1 of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus, i) the first main body side positioning portion 130Ra and ii) the second main body side positioning portion 130Rb are attached. Have. Further, it has iii) a third main body side positioning unit 130La, iv) a rotational force applying unit 100a, and v) a process cartridge 2 having the following configuration. The process cartridge 2 has an electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 and a developing roller 41 for developing an electrostatic latent image formed on the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20. Further, a first frame unit 50 that supports the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 and a second frame unit that supports the developing roller 41 and is swingably coupled to the first frame unit 50. Has 40. Further, it has a coupling 150 that receives a rotational force for rotating the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum from the rotational force applying unit 100a in a state where the process cartridge is mounted on the apparatus main body. The coupling 150 is attached to one end of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum. Further, in order to regulate the movement of the first frame unit in the longitudinal direction of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum with the process cartridge mounted on the apparatus main body, the process cartridge is engaged with the first main body side positioning unit. It has a matching first cartridge side positioned portion 158b. Further, the second cartridge side positioned to be engaged with the second main body side positioning portion provided on the coaxial line with the axis of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum at one end side in the longitudinal direction of the first frame body unit. It has a part 158c. As a result, the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum is positioned in the radial direction with respect to the device main body in a state where the process cartridge is mounted on the device main body. Further, the third cartridge side cover that engages with the third main body side positioning portion provided on the coaxial line with the axis of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum on the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the first frame body unit. It has a positioning unit 51e. As a result, the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum is positioned in the radial direction with respect to the device main body in a state where the process cartridge is mounted on the device main body. Further, the first unit side regulating unit 200 provided in the first frame unit is provided in order to restrict the movement of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum in the longitudinal direction of the first frame unit. Further, in order to restrict the movement of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum in the longitudinal direction of the first frame body unit, the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum is provided so as to be in contact with the first unit side regulating portion. It has a first drum side regulation unit 151s.

With this configuration, the coupling 150 on the process cartridge 2 side that receives the rotational force from the apparatus main body 1 and the process cartridge that can accurately position the rotational force applying portion on the apparatus main body side in the axial direction are attached and detached. A photographic image forming apparatus can be provided.

(12) The first drum side regulating unit 151s regulates the movement of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 that tends to move from the one end side to the other end side of the first frame unit 50. Further, the first frame body unit 50 is provided with the second unit side regulating portion 158a, and the second drum side regulating portion 151t provided on the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 so as to come into contact with the second unit side regulating portion. Has. This restricts the movement of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 that tends to move from the other end side of the first frame unit 50 to the one end side.

With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the photoconductor drum 20 from moving and shouting in the axial direction. Therefore, the photoconductor drum 20 can be reliably positioned with respect to the apparatus main body in the axial direction.

(13) A drum flange 151 is provided on one end side of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20. The coupling 150 is slantably attached to the drum flange 151. Further, a bearing member 158 that rotatably supports the shaft portion of the drum flange 151 is attached to the drum frame 51. The first cartridge side positioned portion 158b and the second unit side regulation portion 158a are provided on the bearing member 158. Further, the first drum side regulating portion 151s and the second drum side regulating portion 151t are provided on the drum flange 151.

With this configuration, it is possible to more accurately position the coupling 150 on the process cartridge 2 side that receives the rotational force from the apparatus main body 1 and the rotational force applying portion on the apparatus main body side in the axial direction.

(14) The drum flange 151 has a gear 151c, and the gear transmits the rotational force received by the coupling 150 from the apparatus main body 1 to the developing roller 41.

With this configuration, it is possible to reduce the cost by integrating the parts. Further, the tooth width of the gear can be narrowed, and the device can be miniaturized.

(15) The coupling 150 engages with the rotational force applying portion 100b of the drive shaft 100 provided in the apparatus main body 1 to receive a rotational force for rotating the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20. It is a thing. The coupling 150 can take a rotational force transmission angle position for transmitting the rotational force for rotating the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum to the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum. Further, it is possible to take a pre-engagement angle position inclined in a direction away from the axis of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum from the rotational force transmission angle position. Further, it is possible to take a detachment angle position inclined in a direction away from the axis of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum from the rotational force transmission angle position. Then, when the process cartridge is moved and attached to the apparatus main body in a direction orthogonal to the axis of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum, the coupling is moved from the pre-engagement angle position to the rotational force transmission angle position. Moving. As a result, the coupling 150 faces the drive shaft 100. When the process cartridge is removed from the main body of the apparatus in a direction orthogonal to the axis of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum, the coupling moves from the rotational force transmission angle position to the detachment angle position. As a result, the coupling 150 is separated from the drive shaft 100.

With this configuration, the following electrophotographic image forming apparatus can be provided. That is, a process of being mounted on the main body of an apparatus that does not have a mechanism for moving the rotating body on the main body side as a rotational force applying portion for transmitting the rotational force to the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum by opening and closing the main body cover in the axial direction. It is an electrophotographic image forming device to which a cartridge can be attached and detached.

(16) The coupling 150 has a recess 150f on the rotation axis of the coupling. Then, when the process cartridge 2 is attached to the apparatus main body 1, the process cartridge is moved in the direction X5 orthogonal to the axis L1 of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 from the angle position before engagement. It tilts to the rotational force transmission angle position. In this case, the coupling 150 is tilted so as to allow a part 150A1 of the coupling located on the downstream side to bypass the drive shaft 100 when viewed from the direction in which the process cartridge is attached to the apparatus main body. To do. Then, the recess 150f covers the tip 103c of the drive shaft 100 in a state where the coupling is located at the rotational force transmission angle position. Further, the rotational force receiving portion engages with the rotational force applying portion 100b provided on the tip end side of the drive shaft in a direction orthogonal to the axis of the drive shaft in the rotational direction of the coupling. .. As a result, the coupling 150 rotates by receiving a rotational force from the drive shaft 100. Then, when the process cartridge is removed from the main body of the apparatus, the process cartridge is moved in a direction orthogonal to the axis of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum. In response to this movement, the coupling 150 is tilted from the rotational force transmission angle position to the detachment angle position, so that the coupling is detached from the drive shaft. In this case, the coupling 150 is such that a part of the coupling located behind the drive shaft bypasses the drive shaft when viewed from a direction opposite to the removal direction in which the process cartridge is removed from the apparatus main body. Tilt to allow.

With this configuration, the following electrophotographic image forming apparatus can be provided. That is, a process of being mounted on a device main body that does not have a mechanism for moving the main body side rotating body as a driving force applying unit for transmitting a rotational force to the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum by opening and closing the main body cover in the axial direction. It is an electrophotographic image forming device to which a cartridge can be attached and detached.

(17) The first unit side regulating portion 200 has tapered portions 200a and 200b at both ends with respect to the rotation direction of the drum flange 151.

With this configuration, it is possible to reduce the rotation unevenness of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 and improve the rotation accuracy of the photoconductor drum 20.

(18) In the electrophotographic image forming apparatus in which the process cartridge 2 is detachably attached to the apparatus main body 1 of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus, i) the first main body side positioning portion 130Ra and ii) the second main body side positioning portion 130Rb are attached. Have. Further, it has iii) a third main body side positioning unit 130La, iv) a rotational force applying unit 100a, and iv) a process cartridge 2 having the following configuration. The process cartridge 2 has an electrophotographic photosensitive drum 20 and a drum flange provided at one end of the electrophotographic photosensitive drum, and has a drum flange 151 having a gear 151c and a drum shaft 151v on one end side. Further, a coupling that receives a rotational force for rotating the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum from the rotational force applying portion 100a while the process cartridge is attached to the apparatus main body, and is attached to the drum flange. Has a coupling 151. Further, it is a developing roller for developing an electrostatic latent image formed on the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum, and the coupling 150 receives the rotational force received from the apparatus main body 1 from the gear 151c and rotates. It has a developing roller 41 to be processed. Further, one end of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum is supported via a bearing member 158 that supports the one end side drum shaft 151v, and the other end of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum is supported by the other end side drum shaft 202. It has a single frame unit 50.

Further, it has a second frame unit 40 that supports the developing roller 41 and is swingably coupled to the first frame unit 50. Further, it has a first cartridge-side positioned portion that engages with the first main body-side positioning portion 130Ra, and has the first cartridge-side positioned portion 158b provided on the bearing member 158. As a result, the movement of the first frame unit is restricted in the longitudinal direction of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum with the process cartridge mounted on the apparatus main body. Further, the second cartridge side cover that engages with the second main body side positioning portion 130Rb provided on the coaxial line with the axis of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum at one end side in the longitudinal direction of the first frame body unit. It has a positioning unit 158c. As a result, the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum is positioned in the radial direction with respect to the device main body in a state where the process cartridge is mounted on the device main body. Further, the third cartridge side that engages with the third main body side positioning portion 130La provided on the coaxial line with the axis of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum on the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the first frame body unit. It has a positioned portion 51e. As a result, the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum is positioned in the radial direction with respect to the device main body in a state where the process cartridge is mounted on the device main body. Further, in order to regulate the movement of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum from the one end toward the other end in the longitudinal direction of the first frame unit 50, the length of the first frame unit 50 is increased. It has a first unit side regulation unit 200 provided on one end side in the direction. A second bearing member 158 is provided in order to restrict the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum from moving from the other end toward the one end in the longitudinal direction of the first frame unit. It has a unit-side regulation unit 158a. Further, it has a first drum side regulating portion 151s provided on the drum flange 151 so as to come into contact with the first unit side regulating portion 200. This restricts the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 from moving from one end thereof toward the other end in the longitudinal direction of the first frame unit 50. Further, it has a second drum side regulating portion 151s provided on the drum flange 151 so as to come into contact with the second unit side regulating portion 158a. This restricts the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 from moving from the other end toward the one end in the longitudinal direction of the first frame unit 50.

With this configuration, the coupling 150 on the process cartridge 2 side that receives the rotational force from the apparatus main body 1 and the process cartridge that can accurately position the rotational force applying portion on the apparatus main body side in the axial direction are attached and detached. A photographic image forming apparatus can be provided.

(19) The first drum-side regulating portion 151s is provided at one end of the gear 151c, and the second drum-side regulating portion 151t is provided at the other end of the gear 151c.

With this configuration, it is possible to reduce the cost by integrating the parts. Further, the tooth width of the gear can be narrowed, and the device can be miniaturized.

(20) The first unit side regulating portion 200 has tapered portions 200a and 200b at both ends with respect to the rotation direction of the drum flange 151.

With this configuration, it is possible to reduce the rotation unevenness of the electrophotographic photosensitive member drum 20 and improve the rotation accuracy of the photoconductor drum 20.

1 ... Image forming apparatus main body (device main body), 2 ... Process cartridge, 20 ... Electrophotographic photosensitive member drum, 21 ... Photoreceptor drum unit, 41 ... Developer carrier (development roller), 40 ... Second frame unit, 50 ... First frame unit, 51e ... Cylindrical part (positioned part on the third cartridge side), 100 ... Drive shaft, 100a ... Tip part, 100b ... Rotational force transmission pin (rotation imparting part), 130 (130R, 130L) ) ... Main body guide member (130R, 130L), 130Ra ... Rib (first main body side positioning part), 130Rb ... Recessed part (second main body side positioning part), 150 ... Coupling member (cup) Ring), 150d (150d1 to 150d4) ... Driven transmission protrusion), 150e (150e1 to 150e4) ... Rotational force receiving part (150e1 to 150e4), 150f ... Recess, 151 ... Drum flange (Flange), 151c ... Gear, 151h ... Rotational force transmission surface (rotational force transmission part), 151s ... Flange end face (second unit side regulation part), 151t ... Flange end face (first cartridge side) Positioned part) 156 ... Coupling coupling, 158 ... Bearing member, 158a ... Bearing end face (second unit side regulating part), 158b ... Groove (first cartridge side positioned part), 158c ... Cylindrical part (Positioned part on the second cartridge side), 200 ... Rib (Regulatory part on the first unit side), 200a / 200b ... Tapered part

Claims (5)

In a process cartridge that is detachably attached to the main body of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus having a rotational force applying portion.
Photosensitive drum and
A flange member provided at one end in the longitudinal direction of the photosensitive drum and rotatable together with the photosensitive drum,
A frame unit that supports the photosensitive drum and
A coupling that receives a rotational force for rotating the photosensitive drum from the rotational force applying portion while the process cartridge is mounted on the apparatus main body, and is a flange that can be tilted with respect to the axis of the photosensitive drum. A coupling member connected to the member and the process cartridge are provided on the device body in order to restrict the movement of the frame unit in the longitudinal direction of the photosensitive drum while the process cartridge is mounted on the device body. The first cartridge-side positioned portion provided on the frame unit that engages with the first main body-side positioning portion, and the positioned portion on the first cartridge side.
In order to restrict the movement of the photosensitive drum in the longitudinal direction from one end side to the other end side, a first regulation portion provided on the frame unit and a first regulation portion.
With the first regulated portion provided on the flange member so as to be in contact with the first regulated portion in order to restrict the movement of the photosensitive drum in the longitudinal direction from the one end side to the other end side. ,
Have,
A process cartridge characterized in that a tapered portion is provided at an end portion of the first regulating portion in the rotation direction of the photosensitive drum. The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein tapered portions are provided at both ends of the first regulating portion in the rotation direction of the photosensitive drum. It said first controlled portion of the previous SL is a surface capable of contacting the first restricting portion, the process cartridge according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the recess is provided on the surface. In order to restrict the movement of the photosensitive drum in the longitudinal direction from the other end side to the one end side, a second regulating portion provided on the frame unit and the photosensitive drum in the longitudinal direction are described. A claim characterized by having a second regulated portion provided on the flange member so as to be in contact with the second regulated portion in order to regulate movement in a direction from the other end side toward the one end side. Item 2. The process cartridge according to any one of Items 1 to 3. The guided portion has a guided portion, and by guiding the guided portion to a guide portion provided on the apparatus main body, the guided portion can be moved in a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis of the rotational force applying portion and can be removed from the apparatus main body. The process cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the process cartridge is characterized by the above.

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