JP6972836B2 - Powder processing equipment and image forming equipment - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a powder processing apparatus and an image forming apparatus.

The following Patent Documents 1 and 2 are conventionally known regarding a configuration in which a container containing a developer as an example of powder is detachably attached to an image forming apparatus in an image forming apparatus such as a conventional copying machine or a printer. Is.
In Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 9-237023 as Patent Document 1, when the waste toner recovery container (50) is replaced, the lid member (43) is moved in conjunction with the attachment / detachment operation of the waste toner recovery container (50). , A technique for closing the waste toner discharge port (34) is described.

In Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 7-92871 as Patent Document 2, a cylinder (28b) is provided at the end of a path for transporting waste toner to the waste toner box (26), and the cylinder is opened and closed according to the opening and closing of the front cover (32). A technique for preventing waste toner spilled around the cylinder (28b) from leaking to the outside by sliding (28b) to generate an air flow toward the inside of the cylinder (28b) is described.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 9-237023 ("0019"-"0021") Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 7-92871 ("0012"-"0014", "0022"-"0024")

In an image forming apparatus that needs to open the opening / closing member of the main body of the image forming apparatus when removing the accommodating portion, it is presumed that there is a high possibility that the accommodating portion will be removed after the opening / closing member is opened.
The technical subject of the present invention is to shake off the powder adhering to the connection portion in a situation where the accommodating portion is likely to be removed from now on as compared with the situation where the opening / closing member is closed.

In order to solve the technical problem, the powder processing apparatus of the invention according to claim 1 is used.
The transport path where the powder is transported and
An accommodating portion that is detachably connected to the downstream end of the transport path and accommodates powder from the transport path.
A vibrating device that vibrates the connection portion between the transport path and the accommodating portion,
An opening / closing member that is supported by the main body of the powder processing device and opens and closes the space in which the accommodating portion is arranged.
A detection member that detects the opening of the opening / closing member, and
A transport member that transports the accommodating portion in a direction in which the accommodating portion deviates from the transport path.
Equipped with
When the opening / closing member is detected to be opened, the vibration control means of the control unit drives the vibration device to apply vibration while being transported by the transport member and before the accommodating portion deviates from the transport path. The vibrating device is operated in conjunction with the opening of the opening / closing member.

The invention according to claim 2 is the powder processing apparatus according to claim 1.
The vibrating device, which vibrates the connection portion before the connection portion is disconnected when the accommodating portion is removed from the main body of the powder processing apparatus.
It is characterized by being equipped with.

The invention according to claim 3 is the powder processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.
A regulatory member that regulates the removal of the housing when the power is not turned on.
It is characterized by being equipped with.

In order to solve the technical problem, the image forming apparatus of the invention according to claim 4 is used.
The powder composed of the developer and
A developer recovery device configured by the powder processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, and a developer recovery device.
It is characterized by being equipped with.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, the powder adhering to the connection portion can be shaken off in a situation where the accommodating portion is more likely to be removed from the situation where the opening / closing member is closed than in the situation where the opening / closing member is closed.
Further, according to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to detect the opening of the opening / closing member and vibrate the connection portion with the vibrating device.
Further, according to the first aspect of the present invention, even if the transport member starts transporting, vibration can be applied before the accommodating portion deviates from the transport path.
According to the invention of claim 2 can be vibrated before the connection site is out, Ru can be vibrated before the powder leaks.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, it is possible to prevent the accommodating portion from being removed in a state where vibration is not applied, as compared with the case where the regulating member is not provided.
According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the developer adhering to the connection portion can be shaken off in a situation where the accommodating portion is more likely to be removed from the situation where the opening / closing member is closed than in the situation where the opening / closing member is closed. Further, according to the invention of claim 4, it is possible to detect the opening of the opening / closing member and vibrate the connection portion with the vibrating device. Further, according to the invention of claim 4, even if the transport member starts transporting, vibration can be applied before the accommodating portion deviates from the transport path.

FIG. 1 is an overall explanatory view of the image forming apparatus of the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is an enlarged explanatory view of the visible image forming apparatus of the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of the developer recovery device of the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a sectional view taken along line IV-IV of FIG. 3, which is an enlarged view of a main part. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of the vibration device of the second embodiment. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of the vibration device of the third embodiment, and is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 5 of the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of the vibration device of the fourth embodiment, and is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 3 of the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram of the vibration device of the fifth embodiment, and is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 3 of the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of the vibration device of the sixth embodiment, and is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 3 of the first embodiment. 10 is an explanatory view of the vibration device of the seventh embodiment, FIG. 10A is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 9 of the sixth embodiment, and FIG. 10B is a sectional view taken along line XB-XB of FIG. 10A. 11A and 11B are operational explanatory views of the seventh embodiment, FIG. 11A is an explanatory view of a state in which a waste toner box is attached, and FIG. 11B is an explanatory view and a diagram of a state in which vibration is applied while the waste toner box is being taken out. 11C is an explanatory diagram of a state in which the waste toner box is out of the drop path.

Next, specific examples of embodiments of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as Examples) will be described with reference to the drawings, but the present invention is not limited to the following examples.
In order to facilitate the understanding of the following explanations, in the drawings, the front-back direction is the X-axis direction, the left-right direction is the Y-axis direction, and the up-down direction is the Z-axis direction. The directions indicated by Z and −Z or the indicated sides are referred to as anterior, posterior, right, left, upward, downward, or anterior, posterior, right, left, upper, and inferior, respectively.
In addition, in the figure, the one with "・" in "○" means the arrow from the back of the paper to the front, and the one with "×" in "○" is the front of the paper. It shall mean an arrow pointing from to the back.
In addition, in the explanation using the following drawings, the illustrations other than the members necessary for the explanation are omitted as appropriate for the sake of easy understanding.

FIG. 1 is an overall explanatory view of the image forming apparatus of the first embodiment.
FIG. 2 is an enlarged explanatory view of the visible image forming apparatus of the first embodiment.
In FIG. 1, the copying machine U as an example of an image forming apparatus is an operation unit UI, a scanner unit U1 as an example of an image reading device, a feeder unit U2 as an example of a medium supply device, and an image recording device. It has an image unit U3 and a medium processing device U4.

(Explanation of operation unit UI)
The operation unit UI has an input button UIa used for starting copying and setting the number of copies. Further, the operation unit UI has a display unit UIb that displays the contents input by the input button UIa and the status of the copying machine U.

(Explanation of feeder section U2)
In FIG. 1, the feeder unit U2 has a plurality of paper feed trays TR1, TR2, TR3, TR4 as an example of a medium storage container. Further, the feeder unit U2 has a medium supply path SH1 or the like that takes out the recording paper S as an example of the image recording medium accommodated in the paper feed trays TR1 to TR4 and conveys the recording paper S to the image forming unit U3. doing.

(Explanation of image forming unit U3 and medium processing device U4)
In FIG. 1, the image-creating unit U3 has an image recording unit U3a that records an image on the recording paper S conveyed from the feeder unit U2 based on the original image read by the scanner unit U1.
In FIGS. 1 and 2, the drive circuit D of the latent image forming apparatus of the image-creating unit U3 is based on the image information input from the scanner unit U1 and a drive signal corresponding to the drive signal is set in advance for each color Y. ~ K is output to the latent image forming devices ROSy, ROSm, ROSc, ROSk. Photoreceptor drums Py, Pm, Pc, and Pk as an example of an image holder are arranged below each latent image forming apparatus ROSy to ROSk.

The surfaces of the rotating photoconductor drums Py, Pm, Pc, and Pk are uniformly charged by the charging rolls CRy, CRm, CRc, and CRk, which are examples of the charging device, respectively. On the surface of the photoconductor drums Py to Pk whose surface is charged, a laser beam Ly, Lm, Lc, Lk as an example of the latent image writing light output by the latent image forming apparatus ROSy, ROSm, ROSc, ROSk is used. An electrolatent image is formed. The electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photoconductor drums Py, Pm, Pc, and Pk is a toner image as an example of a visible image of yellow Y, magenta M, cyan C, and black K by the developing devices Gy, Gm, Gc, and Gk. Is developed into.
In the developing devices Gy to Gk, the developing agent consumed by the development is replenished from the toner cartridges Ky, Km, Kc, and Kk as an example of the developing agent storage container. The toner cartridges Ky, Km, Kc, and Kk are detachably attached to the developer replenishing device U3b.

The toner image on the surface of the photoconductor drums Py, Pm, Pc, Pk is printed on the intermediate transfer belt B as an example of the intermediate transfer body by the primary transfer rolls T1y, T1m, T1c, T1k as an example of the primary transfer device. The primary transfer regions Q3y, Q3m, Q3c, and Q3k are sequentially superimposed and transferred, and a color toner image as an example of a multicolor visible image is formed on the intermediate transfer belt B. The color toner image formed on the intermediate transfer belt B is transferred to the secondary transfer region Q4.
In the case of only K-color image information, only the K-color photoconductor drum Pk and the developing device Gk are used, and only the K-color toner image is formed.
The photoconductor drums Py, Pm, Pc, and Pk after the primary transfer are prepared by using the drum cleaners CLy, CLm, CLc, and CLk as an example of the image holder cleaner to remove residual developer, paper dust, and the like adhering to the surface. The residue is removed.

In the first embodiment, the photoconductor drum Pk, the charging roll CRk, and the drum cleaner CLk are integrated as a K-color photoconductor unit UK as an example of the image holder unit. Similarly, for the other colors Y, M, and C, the photoconductor units UY, UM, and UC are formed by the photoconductor drums Py, Pm, Pc, the charging rolls CRy, CRm, CRc, and the drum cleaners CLy, CLm, and CLc. It is configured.
Further, a K-color visible image forming apparatus UK + Gk is configured by a K-color photoconductor unit UK and a developing apparatus Gk having a developing roll R0k as an example of a developer holder. Similarly, the Y, M, and C color photoconductor units UY, UM, and UC and the developing devices Gy, Gm, and Gc having the developing rolls R0y, R0m, and R0c make the Y, M, and C colors visible, respectively. The image forming apparatus UY + Gy, UM + Gm, and UC + Gc are configured.

Below the photoconductor drums Py to Pk, a belt module BM as an example of the intermediate transfer device is arranged. The belt module BM includes the intermediate transfer belt B, a drive roll Rd as an example of a drive member of the intermediate transfer body, a tension roll Rt as an example of a tension applying member, a walking roll Rw as an example of a meandering prevention member, and a driven member. It has a plurality of idler rolls Rf as an example, a backup roll T2a as an example of an opposing member, and the primary transfer rolls T1y, T1m, T1c, and T1k. The intermediate transfer belt B is supported so as to be rotatable and movable in the direction of arrow Ya.

A secondary transfer unit Ut is arranged below the backup roll T2a. The secondary transfer unit Ut is an example of the final transfer member, and has a secondary transfer roll T2b as an example of the secondary transfer member. The secondary transfer region Q4 is formed by the region where the secondary transfer roll T2b comes into contact with the intermediate transfer belt B. Further, the backup roll T2a as an example of the facing member faces the secondary transfer roll T2b with the intermediate transfer belt B interposed therebetween. The backup roll T2a is in contact with the contact roll T2c as an example of the feeding member. A secondary transfer voltage having the same polarity as the charging polarity of the toner is applied to the contact roll T2c.
The backup roll T2a, the secondary transfer roll T2b, and the contact roll T2c constitute the secondary transfer device T2.

Below the belt module BM, a medium transport path SH2 is arranged. The recording paper S fed from the medium supply path SH1 of the feeder unit U2 is conveyed to the register roll Rr as an example of the transfer timing adjusting member by the transfer roll Ra as an example of the transfer member of the medium. The registration roll Rr conveys the recording paper S to the downstream side at the time when the toner image formed on the intermediate transfer belt B is conveyed to the secondary transfer region Q4. The recording paper S sent out by the cash register roll Rr is guided by the paper guide SGr on the cash register side and the paper guide SG1 before transfer, and is conveyed to the secondary transfer area Q4.
When the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt B passes through the secondary transfer region Q4, it is transferred to the recording paper S by the secondary transfer device T2. In the case of a color toner image, the toner image that is overlaid on the surface of the intermediate transfer belt B and is primarily transferred is collectively transferred to the recording paper S secondarily.
The transfer devices T1y to T1k + T2 + B of Example 1 are configured by the primary transfer rolls T1y to T1k, the secondary transfer device T2, and the intermediate transfer belt B.

The intermediate transfer belt B after the secondary transfer is cleaned by the belt cleaner CLB as an example of the intermediate transfer body cleaner arranged on the downstream side of the secondary transfer region Q4. The belt cleaner CLB removes residues such as developer and paper dust that remain untransferred from the intermediate transfer belt B in the secondary transfer region Q4.

The recording paper S on which the toner image is transferred is guided by the paper guide SG2 after transfer and sent to the medium transport belt BH as an example of the transport member. The medium transport belt BH transports the recording paper S to the fixing device F.
The fixing device F has a heating roll Fh as an example of a heating member and a pressure roll Fp as an example of a pressure member. The recording paper S is conveyed to the fixing region Q5, which is a region where the heating roll Fh and the pressure roll Fp come into contact with each other. When the toner image of the recording paper S passes through the fixing region Q5, it is heated and pressed by the fixing device F to be fixed.
The image recording unit U3a of the first embodiment is configured by the visible image forming apparatus UY + Gy to UK + Gk, the transfer apparatus T1y to T1k + T2 + B, and the fixing apparatus F.

A switching gate GT1 as an example of the switching member is provided on the downstream side of the fixing device F. The switching gate GT1 selectively switches the recording paper S that has passed through the fixing region Q5 to either the discharge path SH3 or the inversion path SH4 on the medium processing apparatus U4 side. The recording paper S conveyed to the discharge path SH3 is conveyed to the sheet transfer path SH5 of the medium processing apparatus U4. A curl correction member U4a as an example of a warp correction member is arranged on the paper transport path SH5. The curl correction member U4a corrects the warp, so-called curl, of the carried-in recording paper S. The curl-corrected recording paper S is discharged from the discharge roll Rh as an example of the discharge member of the medium to the discharge tray TH1 as an example of the discharge portion of the medium with the image fixing surface of the paper facing upward.

The recording paper S conveyed to the reversing path SH4 side of the image forming unit U3 by the switching gate GT1 is conveyed to the reversing path SH4 of the image forming unit U3 through the second gate GT2 as an example of the switching member.
At this time, when the image fixing surface of the recording paper S is ejected downward, the transport direction of the recording paper S is reversed after the rear end of the recording paper S in the transport direction has passed through the second gate GT2. Here, the second gate GT2 of the first embodiment is composed of a thin-film elastic member. Therefore, the second gate GT2 once passes the recording paper S conveyed to the reversing path SH4 as it is, and when the passed recording sheet S is inverted, so-called switchback, is guided to the transport paths SH3 and SH5. do. Then, the switched back recording paper S passes through the curl correction member U4a and is discharged to the discharge tray TH1 with the image fixing surface facing downward.

A circulation path SH6 is connected to the reversal path SH4 of the image forming portion U3, and a third gate GT3 as an example of the switching member is arranged at the connecting portion. Further, the downstream end of the reversing path SH4 is connected to the reversing path SH7 of the medium processing apparatus U4.
The recording paper S conveyed to the reversing path SH4 through the switching gate GT1 is conveyed to the reversing path SH7 side of the medium processing apparatus U4 by the third gate GT3. Like the second gate GT2, the third gate GT3 of the first embodiment is composed of a thin-film elastic member. Therefore, the third gate GT3 once passes the recording paper S that has been conveyed through the reversal path SH4, and when the passing recording sheet S is switched back, it guides the recording sheet S to the circulation path SH6 side.

The recording paper S conveyed to the circulation path SH6 is retransmitted to the secondary transfer region Q4 through the medium transfer path SH2, and printing on the second side is performed.
The paper transport path SH is composed of the elements indicated by the reference numerals SH1 to SH7. Further, the paper transport device SU of the first embodiment is composed of the elements represented by the reference numerals SH, Ra, Rr, Rh, SGr, SG1, SG2, BH, GT1 to GT3.

(Explanation of developer recovery device)
FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of the developer recovery device of the first embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a sectional view taken along line IV-IV of FIG. 3, which is an enlarged view of a main part.
In FIG. 3, the copying machine U of the first embodiment has a developer recovery device as an example of a powder processing device. The developer recovery device has a discharge path 1 as an example of a powder transport path. In the copying machine U of the first embodiment, the deteriorated developer discharged from the developing devices Gy to Gk, the developing agent recovered by the drum cleaner CLy to CLk, and the developing agent recovered by the belt cleaner CLB are transported (not shown). It is conveyed by the road and finally to the discharge passage 1. The discharge path 1 of the first embodiment extends toward the rear of the copying machine U.

The discharge path 1 as an example of the transport path accommodates the auger 2 as an example of the developer transport member. The auger 2 is configured to be rotatable so that a developer as an example of powder can be conveyed. A drop path 3 as an example of a transport path is connected to the downstream end portion (rear end portion) of the discharge path 1.

A main body shutter 4 as an example of an opening / closing member is supported at the lower end of the fall path 3. The main body shutter 4 is supported so as to be movable in the front-rear direction with respect to the outlet 3a at the lower end of the fall path 3. Therefore, the main body shutter 4 is configured to be able to open and close the outlet 3a. In the main body shutter 4 of the first embodiment, an elastic seal 4a as an example of a sealing member is supported in order to seal the outlet 3a in a state where the outlet 3a is closed. The elastic seal 4a is made of rubber as an example, but it can also be made of a sponge or the like. Further, the main body shutter 4 of the first embodiment is a spring 4b as an example of the urging member, and is constantly urged toward a position of closing the outflow port 3a.

A waste toner box 6 as an example of the accommodating portion is supported at the lower end of the drop path 3. The waste toner box 6 is housed in the main body of the copying machine U in a state of being removable from the drop path 3.
The waste toner box 6 has an inflow port 6a connected to the outflow port 3a formed at the upper end thereof.
In the waste toner box 6 of the first embodiment, a vibrated portion 6b is formed on the outer surface of the bottom portion. The vibrated portion 6b is formed of an uneven shape in which hemispherical protrusions are arranged in the front-rear direction.
A box shutter 7 as an example of an opening / closing member is supported at the upper end of the waste toner box 6. The box shutter 7 is supported so that the inflow port 6a can be opened and closed. The box shutter 7 is configured in the same manner as the main body shutter 4, and has an elastic seal 7a and a spring 7b.

An opening / closing cover 11 as an example of the opening / closing member is arranged behind the waste toner box 6. The opening / closing cover 11 is rotatably supported around the rotation shaft 11a at the lower end. Therefore, the opening / closing cover 11 is configured to be able to open / close the space for accommodating the waste toner box 6 provided at the rear of the copying machine U. Therefore, the waste toner box 6 inside can be attached / detached and replaced by the operator opening / closing the opening / closing cover 11.
A gear 12 as an example of the interlocking member is supported on the rotating shaft 11a of the opening / closing cover 11. Therefore, the gear 12 is also configured to be rotatable as the opening / closing cover 11 rotates. In the first embodiment, the gear 12 is supported on the rotating shaft 11a, but it is possible to change the configuration to a gear train having a plurality of gears: a gear train.

A vibration device 13 is arranged below the gear 12. The vibrating device 13 of the first embodiment has a rack 13a as an example of a moving body. The rack 13a is configured in a plate shape extending in the front-rear direction. The rack 13a is supported by the main body of the copying machine U so as to be movable in the front-rear direction. Further, the front portion of the rack 13a extends below the waste toner box 6 and extends to a position facing the vibrated portion 6b.
A gear portion 13b that meshes with the gear 12 is formed at the rear portion of the rack 13a. Therefore, the rack 13a moves in the front-rear direction as the gear 12 rotates in the forward and reverse directions.
A vibrating portion 13c is formed on the front portion of the rack 13a. The vibrating portion 13c is arranged so as to face and contact the vibrated portion 6b. The vibrating portion 13c of the first embodiment is configured by a concave-convex shape in which hemispherical protrusions protruding toward the vibrated portion 6b are arranged in the front-rear direction. Therefore, when the rack 13a moves in the front-rear direction, the vibrating portion 13c sequentially contacts the vibrated portion 6b.

(Action of Example 1)
In the copying machine U of the first embodiment having the above configuration, the developer flows into and accumulates in the waste toner box 6 with the image forming operation. When the waste toner box 6 is full and replaced, the opening / closing cover 11 is first opened. Therefore, the rack 13a moves via the gear 12 as the opening / closing cover 11 opens. Therefore, the vibrating portion 13c of the rack 13a sequentially contacts the vibrating portion 6b of the waste toner box 6. Therefore, the state in which the vertices of the protrusions are in contact with each other and the state in which the protrusions of the vibrating portion 13c are inserted between the protrusions of the vibrated portion 6b are repeated, and vibration is applied to the waste toner box 6. Therefore, vibration is applied to the vicinity of the outflow port 3a and the inflow port 6a, which are the connection portions between the drop path 3 and the waste toner box 6. Therefore, vibration is applied to the connection portion in conjunction with the opening of the opening / closing member. The width of vibration (in this embodiment, the width of vertical movement of the vibrated portion 6b) is set within a range in which the inflow port 6a and the outflow port 3a do not come off.

As shown in FIG. 4, when vibration is applied to the connection portion of the waste toner box 6, the developer 21 adhering to the edges of the outlet 3a and the inlet 6a during drop transfer is dropped by the vibration, and the waste toner box 6 is used. Easy to fall inside.
Then, when the opening / closing cover 11 is opened, the waste toner box 6 can be removed, and the waste toner box 6 can be taken out from the rear surface of the copying machine U opened by the opening / closing cover 11 and replaced. When the waste toner box 6 is removed from the drop path 3, the shutters 4 and 7 block the outlet 3a and the inlet 6a by the elastic force of the springs 4b and 7b.
Therefore, in the copying machine U of the first embodiment, when the waste toner box 6 is removed, the connection portion is vibrated before the inlet 6a and the outlet 3a, which are the connection portions, are disconnected. Therefore, when the waste toner box 6 is removed, the developer 21 adhering to the inlet 6a and the outlet 3a is less likely to leak out.

In the first embodiment, vibration is applied to the waste toner box 6 in conjunction with the opening of the opening / closing cover 11, and vibration is applied even if the waste toner box 6 is not actually attached or detached. The opening / closing cover 11 of the first embodiment is a cover dedicated to the replacement of the waste toner box 6, and the situation where the opening / closing cover 11 is opened is a situation in which the waste toner box 6 is likely to be replaced. Therefore, the waste toner box 6 is vibrated in a situation where there is a high possibility that the waste toner box 6 will be removed from now on.

The opening / closing cover 11 exemplifies a configuration dedicated to replacement of the waste toner box 6, but is not limited to this, and other replacement members such as toner cartridges Ky to Kk, photoconductor units UY to UK, belt module BM, and the like. It is also possible to use a dual-purpose cover that can be opened and closed even when the toner is replaced. That is, even if the waste toner box 6 is not actually replaced, if the developer is dropped by applying vibration, it is possible to reduce the amount of the developer adhering to the vicinity of the inlet 6a and the like, and it is possible to suppress leakage. be. When the combined opening / closing cover is opened, the possibility that the waste toner box 6 is replaced is lower than when the dedicated opening / closing cover 11 is opened, but it is closed when the opening / closing cover is opened. It is also possible to give vibration to the waste toner box 6 because it is more likely that the waste toner box 6 will be replaced.

Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the second embodiment, the components corresponding to the components of the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted. do.
This embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the following points, but is configured in the same manner as the first embodiment in other respects.

FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of the vibration device of the second embodiment.
In FIG. 5, in the copying machine U of the second embodiment, unlike the first embodiment, the waste toner box 6 is not provided with the vibrated portion 6b, and the vibrated portion 21 is provided on the right outer surface of the drop path 3. Has been done. The vibrated portion 21 is formed of a concave-convex shape in which hemispherical protrusions protruding to the right are arranged in the front-rear direction.
Further, in the second embodiment, unlike the opening / closing cover 11 having the rotating shaft 11a extending in the left-right direction of the first embodiment, the opening / closing cover 22 of the second embodiment has the rotating shaft 22a extending in the vertical direction. A gear 23 as an example of the interlocking member is supported at the upper end of the rotating shaft 22a. A vibration device 24 is arranged on the left side of the gear 23. The vibrating device 24 of the second embodiment has a rack 24a, a gear portion 24b, and a vibrating portion 24c configured in the same manner as the vibrating device 13 of the first embodiment, and is configured to be movable in the front-rear direction. The vibrating portion 24c of the second embodiment is formed by a concave-convex shape in which hemispherical protrusions protruding to the left are arranged in the front-rear direction.

(Action of Example 2)
In the copying machine U of the second embodiment having the above configuration, the vibrating device 24 moves in conjunction with the opening of the opening / closing cover 22, and the vibrating portion 24c and the vibrating portion 21 are intermittently contacted with each other to cause a fall path. Vibration is applied to 3. Therefore, vibration is also applied to the upper part of the waste toner box 6 connected to the drop path 3. Therefore, vibration is applied to the outflow port 3a and the inflow port 6a, which are the connection portions between the drop path 3 and the waste toner box 6. Therefore, also in the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the developer adhering to the outlet 3a and the like is dropped by vibration, and the leakage of the developer is reduced.

Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the third embodiment, the components corresponding to the components of the first and second embodiments are designated by the same reference numerals and the detailed description thereof will be given. Is omitted.
This embodiment differs from the first and second embodiments in the following points, but is configured in the same manner as the first and second embodiments in other respects.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of the vibration device of the third embodiment, and is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 5 of the second embodiment.
In FIG. 6, in the copying machine U of the third embodiment, the vibrated portion 31 is provided on the upper upper surface of the waste toner box 6. The vibrated portion 31 is formed of an uneven shape in which hemispherical protrusions protruding upward are arranged in the front-rear direction.
Further, the vibrating device 24'of the third embodiment has the same rack 24a and gear portion 24b as the vibrating device 24 of the second embodiment. Further, the vibrating portion 24c'of the vibrating device 24'of the third embodiment is configured to have a concave-convex shape in which hemispherical protrusions protruding downward are arranged in the front-rear direction corresponding to the vibrated portion 31.

(Action of Example 3)
In the copying machine U of the third embodiment having the above configuration, vibration is applied to the waste toner box 6 by the vibrating device 24'in conjunction with the opening of the opening / closing cover 22. Therefore, similarly to Examples 1 and 2, the developer adhering to the outlet 3a and the like is dropped by vibration, and the leakage of the developer is reduced.
In Example 1, the vibrated portion 6b is provided on the bottom of the waste toner box 6, and in Example 3, the vibrated portion 31 is provided on the upper surface of the waste toner box 6, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it can be provided on the side surface of the waste toner box 6.

Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the fourth embodiment, the components corresponding to the components of the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted. do.
This embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the following points, but is configured in the same manner as the first embodiment in other respects.

FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of the vibration device of the fourth embodiment, and is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 3 of the first embodiment.
In FIG. 7, the copying machine U of the fourth embodiment has a vibrating device 41 instead of the vibrating device 13 of the first embodiment. The vibrating device 41 of the fourth embodiment has a transmission gear 42 that meshes with the gear 12 of the opening / closing cover 11. The transmission gear 42 of the fourth embodiment has the number of teeth, the gear diameter, and the like set so as to rotate a plurality of times while the opening / closing cover 11 is opened / closed. An eccentric cam 43 as an example of an eccentric member is supported on the rotating shaft 43a of the transmission gear 42. The eccentric cam 43 is formed in a shape in which the distance from the center of rotation to the outer periphery changes in the circumferential direction.

A leaf spring 44 as an example of the vibrating portion is arranged in front of the eccentric cam 43. The leaf spring 44 of the fourth embodiment is arranged so as to be in contact with the bottom surface as an example of the vibrated portion of the waste toner box 6. Further, the leaf spring 44 comes into contact with the eccentric cam 43 and elastically deforms when the long diameter portion of the eccentric cam 43 approaches, and when the long diameter portion separates with the rotation of the eccentric cam 43, the leaf spring 44 elastically restores. , It is configured to be able to give vibration by contacting the bottom surface of the waste toner box 6.

(Action of Example 4)
In the copying machine U of the fourth embodiment having the above configuration, the eccentric cam 43 rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the opening / closing cover 11, and the leaf spring 44 gives vibration to the waste toner box 6. In the fourth embodiment, the transmission gear 42 rotates a plurality of times when the opening / closing cover 11 is opened, and the leaf spring 44 contacts the waste toner box 6 a plurality of times. That is, vibration is intermittently applied to the waste toner box 6. Therefore, even in the copying machine U of the fourth embodiment, the developer 21 adhering to the outlet 3a or the like can be removed by vibration.

In the fourth embodiment, the leaf spring 44 is elastically deformed by the eccentric cam 43 to intermittently apply vibration, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the eccentric cam 43 may be configured to give vibration by directly contacting and separating from the wall surface of the waste toner box 6. In Example 4 in which the leaf spring 44 is used, it can be expected that the damped vibration of the leaf spring 44 causes the waste toner box 6 to vibrate finely for a long period of time as compared with the case where the eccentric cam 43 comes into direct contact with the damped vibration. Further, when the leaf spring 44 is used, the position where the vibration is applied can be easily adjusted as compared with the case where the eccentric cam 43 comes into direct contact with the eccentric cam 43.

Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the fifth embodiment, the components corresponding to the components of the first and fourth embodiments are designated by the same reference numerals and the detailed description thereof will be given. Is omitted.
This embodiment differs from the above-mentioned Examples 1 and 4 in the following points, but is configured in the same manner as the above-mentioned Examples 1 and 4 in other respects.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram of the vibration device of the fifth embodiment, and is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 3 of the first embodiment.
In FIG. 8, the vibrating device 51 of the fifth embodiment has the transmission gear 42 and the eccentric cam 43 as in the fourth embodiment. The vibrating device 51 of the fifth embodiment has a vibrating table 52 that can come into contact with the bottom surface of the waste toner box 6 as an example of the vibrating unit. The shaking table 52 is rotatably supported around the rotating shaft 52a. Below the rear side of the rotating shaft 52a, the eccentric cam 43 comes into contact with the shaking table 52 and is configured to be able to move up and down the front side of the shaking table 52. Therefore, as the eccentric cam 43 rotates, the front portion of the shaking table 52 also moves up and down in the vertical direction so as to be able to come into contact with the bottom surface of the waste toner box 6 as an example of the vibrated portion.

(Action of Example 5)
In the copying machine U of the fifth embodiment having the above configuration, the shaking table 52 moves up and down in conjunction with the rotation of the opening / closing cover 11, and vibration is applied to the waste toner box 6. Therefore, even in the copying machine U of the fifth embodiment, the developer 21 adhering to the outlet 3a or the like can be removed by vibration.
In particular, the shaking table 52 of the fifth embodiment has a longer front portion than the rear portion of the rotating shaft 52a, and it is possible to increase the vibration by the principle of leverage.
The configuration in which the shaking table 52 is vibrated up and down is not limited to the illustrated configuration. For example, if a part of the teeth of the gear portion 13b of the rack 13a is chipped (tooth skipping) or a part of the teeth of the gear 12 is chipped as in the first embodiment, the teeth are removed as the gear 12 rotates. The rack 13a vibrates in the direction of approaching and separating from the gear 12 at the portion where the gear is applied and the portion where the tooth is not chipped. Therefore, it is possible to adopt such a configuration.

Next, a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the sixth embodiment, the components corresponding to the components of the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted. do.
This embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the following points, but is configured in the same manner as the first embodiment in other respects.

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of the vibration device of the sixth embodiment, and is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 3 of the first embodiment.
In FIG. 9, in the copying machine U of the sixth embodiment, the opening / closing cover 11 is not provided with the gear 12. An eccentric cam 61, which is an example of a vibration device and is an example of an eccentric member, is arranged on the front side of the waste toner box 6. The eccentric cam 61 is arranged so as to face the front wall surface of the waste toner box 6. Drive is transmitted to the eccentric cam 61 from a motor M1 as an example of a drive source.
Further, the bottom surface of the waste toner box 6 is supported by a transport belt 62 as an example of the transport member.
Further, a recess 6c as an example of the regulated portion is formed on the front side of the upper surface of the waste toner box 6. In the recess 6c, a lock 63 as an example of the regulating member is movably supported between the fitted state shown by the solid line and the disengaged state shown by the broken line.
Further, in the sixth embodiment, an open / close detection sensor SN1 is installed as an example of a detection member that detects the opening of the open / close cover 11.

The eccentric cam 61, the conveyor belt 62, and the lock 63 are controlled by the control unit C. The control unit C has an input / output interface I / O that inputs / outputs signals to / from the outside. Further, the control unit C has a ROM: read-only memory in which a program, information, and the like for performing necessary processing are stored. Further, the control unit C has a RAM: random access memory for temporarily storing necessary data. Further, the control unit C has a CPU: a central processing unit that performs processing according to a program stored in a ROM or the like. Therefore, the control unit C of the first embodiment is configured by a small information processing device, a so-called microcomputer. Therefore, the control unit C can realize various functions by executing the program stored in the ROM or the like.

The control unit C of the sixth embodiment has the following functions.
The open / close determination means C1 determines whether or not the open / close cover 11 has been opened based on the detection result of the open / close detection sensor SN1.
The vibration control means C2 controls the eccentric cam 61 to apply vibration to the waste toner box 6. When the opening / closing cover 11 is detected to be opened, the vibration control means C2 of the sixth embodiment rotates the eccentric cam 61 for a preset period. Therefore, as the eccentric cam 61 rotates, the eccentric cam 61 can intermittently touch the side surface of the waste toner box 6 to apply vibration.

The loading / unloading control means C3 rotates the motor M2 as an example of the drive source in the forward / reverse direction and rotates the transport belt 62 in the forward / reverse direction in response to the input to the operation unit UI to load / unload the waste toner box 6. Therefore, when the input to attach the waste toner box 6 is input in the operation unit UI with the open / close cover 11 open, the transport belt 62 is rotated in the forward direction until the waste toner box 6 is connected to the drop path 3. Move it. Further, when the input for removing the waste toner box 6 is input in the operation unit UI, the transport belt 62 is rotated in the reverse direction to transport the waste toner box 6 to a preset position near the opening / closing cover 11.
The lock control means C4 controls the lock 63 to lock the lock 63 between a state in which the lock 63 and the recess 6c of the waste toner box 6 are fitted (locked state) or released (unlocked state). Move it. The lock control means C4 of the sixth embodiment locks the lock 63 when the waste toner box 6 is attached, and unlocks the lock 63 when an input for removing the waste toner box 6 is input.

(Action of Example 6)
In the copying machine U of the sixth embodiment having the above configuration, the eccentric cam 61 operates in conjunction with the opening of the opening / closing cover 11, and vibration is applied to the waste toner box 6. Therefore, even in the copying machine U of the sixth embodiment, the developer 21 adhering to the outlet 3a and the like can be removed by vibration.
Further, in the configuration of the sixth embodiment, the waste toner box 6 is taken in and out by the transport belt 62 in response to the input from the operation unit UI. Therefore, the replacement work of the waste toner box 6 becomes easier as compared with the case where the waste toner box 6 is manually taken in and out. In particular, the transport belt 62 is operated in a state where the open / close cover 11 is opened, that is, after the waste toner box 6 is vibrated by the eccentric cam 61. Therefore, it is prevented that the waste toner box 6 is removed before the vibration is applied, and the leakage of the developer is suppressed.

Further, in the configuration of the sixth embodiment, when the lock 63 is in the locked state, the lock 63 is fitted in the recess 6c, and the waste toner box 6 cannot be taken out. Therefore, even if the operator opens the open / close cover 11 and tries to take out the waste toner box 6 while the power of the copying machine U is not turned on, the waste toner box 6 cannot be taken out. That is, if the power of the copying machine U is not turned on, the eccentric cam 61 does not operate even if the opening / closing cover 11 is opened, and if the waste toner box 6 is taken out as it is, the developer may leak out. In Example 6, the lock is applied to prevent the waste toner box 6 from being removed before the vibration is applied.

The locking configuration is not limited to the configuration exemplified in the sixth embodiment, and any configuration that can regulate the removal of the waste toner box 6 can be adopted. Further, although it is desirable to provide a lock mechanism, it is also possible to provide a configuration without a lock mechanism.
Further, in the sixth embodiment, the eccentric cam 61 is used as an example of the vibration device, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the configurations of the first to fifth embodiments, the gears 12, 23, and 42 may be driven by a motor. Further, it is also possible to change the configuration of the eccentric cam 61 to a configuration in which vibration is applied by repeatedly turning the solenoid on and off.

Next, Example 7 of the present invention will be described. In the description of Example 7, the components corresponding to the components of Examples 1 and 6 are designated by the same reference numerals and the detailed description thereof will be given. Is omitted.
This example differs from the above-mentioned Examples 1 and 6 in the following points, but is configured in the same manner as the above-mentioned Examples 1 and 6 in other respects.

10 is an explanatory view of the vibration device of the seventh embodiment, FIG. 10A is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 9 of the sixth embodiment, and FIG. 10B is a sectional view taken along line XB-XB of FIG. 10A.
In FIG. 10, in the copying machine U of the seventh embodiment, a bellows 71 as an example of the following member is arranged in the middle of the falling path 3 as compared with the configuration of the sixth embodiment. Therefore, the fall path 3 is supported in a state where the lower portion 3c is movable with respect to the upper portion 3b.
In FIG. 10B, the eccentric cam 61 of the seventh embodiment is arranged so as to face the right side surface on the rear side of the waste toner box 6.

11A and 11B are operational explanatory views of the seventh embodiment, FIG. 11A is an explanatory view of a state in which a waste toner box is attached, and FIG. 11B is an explanatory view and a diagram of a state in which vibration is applied while the waste toner box is being taken out. 11C is an explanatory diagram of a state in which the waste toner box is out of the drop path.
In FIG. 11, unlike the sixth embodiment, the vibration control means C2 of the seventh embodiment is not the case where the opening / closing cover 11 is detected, but the waste toner box 6 is removed after the removal with the transport belt 62 is started. The eccentric cam 61 is operated during a preset period until the fall path 3 is removed.

(Action of Example 7)
In the copying machine U of the seventh embodiment having the above configuration, the bellows 71 is arranged in the drop path 3, and even if the waste toner box 6 moves in the direction of disengagement, the configuration of the first to sixth embodiments is compared with the configuration of the first to sixth embodiments. There is a grace period until the waste toner box 6 comes off the drop path 3 due to the expansion and contraction of the bellows 71. Then, in the seventh embodiment, the waste toner box 6 is vibrated by the eccentric cam 61 during this grace period. Therefore, when the waste toner box 6 is removed, vibration is applied to the waste toner box 6 while being conveyed by the transport belt 62 and before the waste toner box 6 is disengaged from the drop path 3. Therefore, in the seventh embodiment as well, the vibration is applied to the waste toner box 6 before the connection portion between the waste toner box 6 and the drop path 3 is disconnected, as in the first to sixth embodiments. Therefore, the developer 21 adhering to the outlet 3a or the like can be dropped by vibration, and the leakage of the developer is reduced.

(Change example)
Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications are made within the scope of the gist of the present invention described in the claims. Is possible. Examples of modifications (H01) to (H08) of the present invention are illustrated below.
(H01) In the above embodiment, the configuration by the copying machine U as an example of the image forming apparatus is illustrated, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the present invention can be applied to FAX, a multifunction device having a plurality of these functions, and the like. Further, the image forming apparatus is not limited to multicolor development, and can be configured by a monochromatic, so-called monochrome image forming apparatus, and is not limited to the so-called tandem type image forming apparatus, and is not limited to a rotary type image forming apparatus. It is also applicable to.

(H02) In the above embodiment, the vibrated portion is exemplified, but is not limited to, the configuration provided in the waste toner box 6 and the drop path 3. It is possible to set any position on the vibrated portion that can directly or indirectly vibrate the connection portion. For example, it is not impossible to use the discharge path 1 or the frame of the copying machine U.
(H03) In the above embodiment, the opening / closing covers 11 and 22 are exemplified, but are not limited to those arranged on the rear surface of the copying machine U. It can be set to any position depending on the position of the accommodating portion to be attached / detached, such as the side surface, the front surface, and the upper surface of the copying machine U.

(H04) In the above embodiment, the opening / closing covers 11 and 22 exemplify a configuration in which the opening / closing covers 11 and 22 rotate about the rotation shafts 11a and 22a, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, it can be configured to slide and move. In the configuration where the open / close cover slides, the rack 13a or the like can be moved integrally with the slide movement. By providing the open / close cover with the rack and the gear portion and providing the image forming apparatus with a pinion gear, etc. It is also possible to move the vibration device 13 and the like in conjunction with the movement of the opening / closing cover.

(H05) In the above embodiment, the vibrated portions 6b, 21, 31 and the vibrating portions 13c, 24c, 24c'exemplify the configuration of hemispherical protrusions, but the present invention is not limited thereto. It is possible to make it an arbitrary shape to which vibration can be applied at the time of contact, and it can be changed according to the amplitude and period of the vibration to be applied, such as a convex portion and a concave portion, a step portion, a gear shape, and a sawtooth shape.
(H06) In the above embodiment, the waste toner box 6 is exemplified as an example of the accommodating portion, but the present invention is not limited thereto. It is applicable to a member that can be attached to and detached from the main body of the image forming apparatus and to which a transport path for the developer is connected. For example, as an example of the accommodating unit, a developing device Gy to Gk, a toner cartridge Ky to Kk, a developing agent replenishing device (so-called dispenser) from the toner cartridge Ky to Kk to the developing device Gy to Gk, or a developing device Gy to Gk. It can also be applied to a device for discharging a developer from the cleaners CLy to CLk and CLB to the waste toner box 6.

(H07) In the above embodiment, a configuration in which a developer as an example of powder is used in a developer recovery device as an example of a powder processing device has been exemplified, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, as an example of powder, it can be applied to a powder processing apparatus that uses chemicals on powder, cosmetics, foods, paints, and the like.
(H08) In Examples 1 to 5, the specific configuration for vibrating the container is not limited as described in (H03) to (H05) above. Here, in the first to third embodiments, the rotational movement of the opening / closing cover 11 is converted into movement in the X direction or the Y direction by using a gear as an example of the interlocking member and a rack as an example of the moving body. Further, in Examples 1 and 3, the movement in the X direction is converted into a plurality of reciprocating motions (vibrations) in the Z direction of the vibrated portion by the uneven shape in the Z direction. In the second embodiment, the movement in the X direction is converted into a plurality of reciprocating motions (vibrations) in the Y direction of the vibrated portion by the uneven shape in the Y direction. To summarize, in these examples, the rotational movement of the opening / closing member is once converted into a linear movement in one direction, and the linear movement in that one direction is converted into a plurality of reciprocating movements (that is, vibration of the connection part). This is an example. Therefore, the specific configuration for realizing is not limited to the first to third embodiments.

Further, in the fourth embodiment, the eccentric cam 43 is rotated by the rotational movement of the open / close cover 11, and the eccentric cam 43 is elastically deformed in contact with the peripheral surface by utilizing the change in the diameter of the eccentric cam 43. The leaf spring 44 is separated from the peripheral surface, and vibration is generated by elastic restoration. In the fifth embodiment, the eccentric cam 43 is rotated a plurality of times by the rotational movement of the open / close cover 11, and the shaking table 52 that contacts the eccentric cam 43 with the peripheral surface is moved in the Z direction by utilizing the difference in the change in the diameter of the eccentric cam 43. Is reciprocated (vibrated) multiple times. To summarize, in these examples, the eccentric member is rotated by the rotational movement of the rotating member, and the change in the distance from the center of rotation of the eccentric member to the outer periphery is used to indirectly or directly contact the peripheral surface of the eccentric member. This is an example of converting to reciprocating movement (that is, vibration of the connection part) of the vibrating part (or the vibrating part). Therefore, the specific configuration for realizing is not limited to Examples 4 and 5.

3 ... Transport path,
6 ... Containment section,
6b, 21, 31 ... Vibrated part,
11, 22 ... Opening / closing member,
11a, 22a ... Rotation axis,
12, 23 ... Interlocking members, gears,
13, 24, 24', 41, 51, 61 ... Vibration device,
13a, 24a ... mobile body,
13c, 24c, 24c', 44, 52 ... Vibration part,
43, 61 ... Eccentric member,
62 ... Transport member,
63 ... Regulatory members,
C ... Control unit,
C2 ... Vibration control means,
M1 ... Drive source,
SN1 ... Detection member,
U ... Image forming apparatus.

Claims (4)

The transport path where the powder is transported and
An accommodating portion that is detachably connected to the downstream end of the transport path and accommodates powder from the transport path.
A vibrating device that vibrates the connection portion between the transport path and the accommodating portion,
An opening / closing member that is supported by the main body of the powder processing device and opens and closes the space in which the accommodating portion is arranged.
A detection member that detects the opening of the opening / closing member, and
A transport member that transports the accommodating portion in a direction in which the accommodating portion deviates from the transport path.
Equipped with
When the opening / closing member is detected to be opened, the vibration control means of the control unit drives the vibration device to apply vibration while being transported by the transport member and before the accommodating portion is disengaged from the transport path. in, in conjunction with the opening of the closing member, the powder processing apparatus characterized by operating the vibrating device. The vibrating device, which vibrates the connection portion before the connection portion is disconnected when the accommodating portion is removed from the main body of the powder processing apparatus.
The powder processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the powder processing apparatus is provided. A regulatory member that regulates the removal of the housing when the power is not turned on.
The powder processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2 , wherein the powder processing apparatus is provided. The powder composed of the developer and
A developer recovery device configured by the powder processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, and a developer recovery device.
An image forming apparatus characterized by being equipped with.

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