JPH0777917A - Method for assembling rolling element, rotating body, process cartridge and image forming device - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To make the rotational load of a rotating body small and to rotate the rotating body with small torque by providing plural rolling elements assem bled differently from a holding member between the rotating body and the holding member. CONSTITUTION:A developing sleeve and its end flange 10f are held in a sleeve cap 10g being the holding, member of the rotating body through a ball 10i. Namely, a groove 10h1 is provided over a peripheral direction on the outer periphery of the flange 10f fitted in the end of the developing sleeve 10d, and plural recessed parts 10h2 opposed to the groove 10h1 are provided on the inner periphey of the sleeve cap 10g, and plural balls 10i being the small-sized rolling elements are rotatably provided between the groove 10h1 and the recessed part 10h2. Namely, the flange 10f and the sleeve cap 10g function also as the internal ring and the external ring of a bearing, respectively. Therefore, when the developing sleeve rotates, the ball 10i is freely rotated to make the coefficient of friction lower than in the case of a sliding bearing, and the torque is drastically reduced.

Description

Description: BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a rolling element assembling method,
Related to rotating body, process cartridge and image forming apparatus
It Here, the image forming apparatus is, for example, an electronic device.
Photocopiers, facsimile machines, laser beam printers
Computer, LED printer, word processor, etc.
Be done. Also, as the rotating body, it rotates during image formation.
Therefore, for example, a photosensitive drum as an image carrier,
Edge drum, etc., and developing sleeve as a developer carrier
Etc., and a charging roller or the like is included as charging means. 2. Description of the Related Art Image forming apparatuses such as printers are even
Selectively expose the charged image carrier to form a latent image,
This latent image is visualized with toner and the toner image is recorded.
The image is recorded by transferring it to a recording medium. For such devices
Therefore, the maintenance of each component is done by a professional service person.
It cannot be done without it, and it is inconvenient for the user.
was there. Therefore, the image carrier, the charger, the developing device,
Cartridge with integrated cleaning unit etc.
The user can install the cartridge
Replenishing toner and reaching the end of its life
Easy replacement and maintenance of image carrier parts
The one that has been put into practical use has been put into practical use. In the process cartridge,
The process cart is compatible with the downsizing of image forming devices.
The ridge is also required to be downsized. for that reason
An image carrier (for example, a photosensitive drum) and a developer carrier
Sliding as a bearing for a rotating body such as a developing sleeve
Bearings were used. However, the process cartridge is
When mounted on an image forming apparatus and driven, the image carrier and the present
A large torque is applied to the rotating body such as the image carrier. That
Therefore, if the rotating body is a sliding bearing, the rotating body will rotate.
A large load is applied due to the large sliding resistance when rolling.
It Therefore, generate a large torque to drive this.
The problem is that a large motor that requires
was there. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to further reduce the size.
Assembling method of rolling element, rotating body, process
To provide a cartridge and an image forming apparatus. Another object of the present invention is to reduce sliding resistance.
Assembling method of rolling elements, rotating body, process car
It is an object of the present invention to provide a cartridge and an image forming apparatus. Another object of the present invention is to improve rotation accuracy.
By combining the rolling elements, it was possible to improve the image quality.
Attachment method, rotating body, process cartridge and image type
It is to provide a manufacturing device. Another object of the present invention is to reduce drive torque.
The size of the motor installed in the main body of the device.
And rolling method that enables reduction of noise and noise
Provide a body, a process cartridge, and an image forming apparatus
That is. Another object of the present invention is to reduce the rotating load of the rotating body.
Can be made smaller and rotate the rotating body with a small torque.
Effective rolling element assembly method, rotating body, process cartridge
And an image forming apparatus. [0012] To achieve the above object
The typical configuration according to the present invention is
In the process cartridge that can be mounted,
A holding member for holding the rotating body, the rotating body and the holding member.
Between the holding member and the holding member.
And a number of rolling elements. Another typical configuration according to the present invention is
Convert to a process cartridge that can be installed in the main body of the image forming apparatus.
In a rotating body that is attached via a moving body, a cylindrical member
And the rolling element provided on the cylindrical member was attached.
And a mounting portion for
It Another typical configuration according to the present invention is
Convert to a process cartridge that can be installed in the main body of the image forming apparatus.
In the mounting method to attach the moving body,
And a support member that supports the rotating body,
In order to smooth the rotation of the rotating body, the cylindrical portion
Directly rotatably incorporating the rolling element between the material and the support member
It is characterized by that. Another typical configuration according to the present invention is
A process cartridge can be installed and the image is recorded on the recording medium.
In an image forming apparatus that forms an image,
Holding member for holding a rolling element, the rotating body, and the holding member
And a plurality of rolling members incorporated separately from the holding member.
A process cartridge mounting means having a moving body;
Transporting means for transporting the recording medium,
It is something. In the above structure, the rolling element is rotated by rotation.
Small rolling torque due to rolling resistance between the body and the holding member
It becomes possible to rotate the rotating body. Further, the position of the rolling element is regulated by the rotating element or
By using the holding member, the bearing part
Can be provided inexpensively without increasing the size.
It is capable of An embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings.
This will be specifically described. [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 shows a process according to the present invention.
Schematic description of the configuration of the image forming apparatus equipped with a cartridge
FIGS. 2A and 2B show the structure of the process cartridge.
It is a schematic explanatory drawing, (a) is the sectional side view, (b) is
FIG. 3 is an external perspective view, and FIG. 3 is an explanatory view of the bearing structure of the developer carrying member.
is there. As the order of explanation, first, the process cartridge
The entire structure of the device equipped with
For the configuration of each part of the device A and the process cartridge B
Next, the developer carrier (hereinafter referred to as "developing sleeve")
The bearing configuration of (i.e.) will be described. The image forming apparatus A is, as shown in FIG.
Image carrying by irradiating an optical image based on image information from the optical system 1
A developer (hereinafter referred to as toner) image on a photosensitive drum, which is an example of the body
To form. Then, the toner image is formed and recorded synchronously.
The medium 2 is conveyed by the conveying means 3 and the process car
In the image forming section made into a cartridge as the cartridge B
The transfer means 4 transfers the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum.
Is transferred to the recording medium 2. Then the recording medium
2 is conveyed to the fixing means 5, and the transferred toner image is fixed and discharged.
Discharge to part 6. Process cart that constitutes the image forming unit
The ridge B rotates the photosensitive drum 7 as shown in FIG.
Then, the surface thereof is uniformly charged by the charging means 8. one
On the other hand, the optical image from the optical system 1 is passed through the exposure unit 9 to the photoconductor.
The drum 7 is exposed to form a latent image, and the developing means 10 is used to
A toner image corresponding to the latent image is formed. And the transfer means
After transferring the toner image onto the recording medium 2 in
The toner remaining on the photosensitive drum 7 by the
Remove. The parts such as the photosensitive drum 7 are
The cartridge is housed in the frame 12 that makes up the cartridge.
Has been done. Next, the image forming apparatus A and the process car
The configuration of each part of the bridge B will be described. <Image Forming Apparatus> First, the image forming apparatus A
Concerning the constitution of each part of, the optical system, the conveying means, the transfer means,
The fixing unit and the cartridge mounting unit will be described in this order. (Optical system) The optical system 1 is read from an external device or the like.
Light exposure by irradiating light based on the embedded image information
The optical image is projected onto the body drum 7. As shown in Figure 1.
Inside the optical unit 1a provided in the device body 13
Laser diode 1b, polygon mirror 1c, and
A canner motor 1d and an imaging lens 1e are housed. For example, a computer or word processor
When an image signal is given from an external device such as a
The diode 1b emits light according to the image signal,
The mirror 1c is irradiated with image light. This polygon
The scanner 1d is rotated by the scanner motor 1d at high speed,
The image light reflected by the polygon mirror 1c is the imaging lens 1
The photoconductor drum 7 that rotates via e and the reflection mirror 1f
And the surface of the drum 7 is selectively exposed to image information.
A latent image is formed according to the information. (Recording Medium Conveying Means) Next, the recording medium 2 (example
For example, it conveys recording paper, OHP sheets, cloth or thin plates)
The transporting means 3 for carrying out will be described. First, the device body
13 has a mounting portion for the cassette 3a. And this wearing
Pick up the recording medium 2 in the cassette 3a installed in
Register rollers one by one from the top by the roller 3b
The registration roller pair 3c is fed to the pair 3c1 and 3c2.
The recording medium 2 so that 1, 3c2 are synchronized with the image forming operation.
Are conveyed to the image transfer section. Then, transfer the image at the image transfer unit.
The recorded recording medium 2 is transferred to the conveying roller 3d and the guide plate 3
The recording medium 2 after being conveyed is conveyed to the fixing means 5 by e.
The sheet is discharged to the discharge section 6 provided at the top of the device by the discharge roller 3f.
Put out. (Transfer Means) The transfer means 4 senses in the image forming section.
Transfer the toner image formed on the optical drum 7 to the recording medium 2.
The transfer means 4 of this embodiment is shown in FIG.
As described above, the transfer roller 4 is used. That is, wearing
Transfer process to the photoconductor drum 7 of the process cartridge B
The recording medium 2 is pressed by the roller 4 and the transfer roller 4 is pressed.
Apply a voltage of the opposite polarity to the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 7.
Recording the toner on the photoconductor drum 7 by applying
Transfer to medium 2. (Fixing means) The fixing means 5 is the transfer roller.
Toner image transferred to the recording medium 2 by applying a voltage
Is to be fixed. Its structure is as shown in FIG.
In addition, the drive roller 5a that is driven and rotated, and the internal heater 5b
A fixing unit which has a pressure contact with the driving roller 5a and is driven to rotate.
It is composed of a roller 5c. That is, the toner image is formed in the image forming unit.
The transferred recording medium 2 is fixed to the drive roller 5a and the fixing roller.
When pressing between the rollers 5c, press the rollers 5a, 5c
Therefore, pressure is applied and heat is generated by the fixing roller 5c.
Heat is applied to the toner on the recording medium 2
Settles in. (Process cartridge mounting means)
The process cartridge B is mounted in the image forming apparatus A.
A cartridge mounting means is provided for this purpose. Process power
Attaching / detaching to / from the device B
This is done by opening the bar 14. That is, the device body 13
Opening and closing cover that can be opened and closed by hinge 14a
14 is attached. Then open the opening / closing cover 14.
There is a cartridge mounting space inside the device body 13.
The left and right guide members G1 are provided on the left and right inner wall surfaces of the main body.
(Only one shown). This left and right guide
For inserting the process cartridge B into the member G1
A guide is provided and the process cartridge B is
By inserting along the id and closing the opening / closing cover 14.
And attach the process cartridge B to the image forming apparatus A.
I am trying to do it. <Process Cartridge> Next, the image type
Of each part of the process cartridge B mounted on the production apparatus A
The configuration will be described. This process cartridge B is an image carrier
With at least one process means
It Here, the process means may be, for example, a surface of the image carrier.
Charging means for charging the surface, forming a toner image on the image carrier
Cleaning means for cleaning the residual toner on the surface of the image carrier
There is a cleaning means for cleaning. Of this embodiment
As shown in FIG. 2, the process cartridge B is an image carrier.
Around the electrophotographic photosensitive drum 7, which is
Arrangement of light section 9, developing means 10, and cleaning means 11
However, these are composed of the first frame body 12a and the second frame body 12b.
The housing is composed of a frame body 12
It is configured to be attachable to and detachable from the main body 13. Next, the structure of each part of the process cartridge B
The photosensitive drum 7, the charging unit 8, the exposure unit 9, the developing unit.
10, the cleaning means 11 will be described in this order. (Photosensitive drum) The photosensitive drum according to the present embodiment.
The ram 7 is a drum base 7b made of cylindrical aluminum.
The organic photosensitive layer 7c is applied to the outer peripheral surface of the. This
The photosensitive drum 7 of is attached to the frame 12 so as to be rotatable,
As described above, the photosensitive drum 7 is fixed to one end in the longitudinal direction.
Drive of the drive motor installed on the main body of the flange gear
By transmitting the force, the photosensitive drum 7 is moved to form an image.
Rotate in the direction of the arrow in Fig. 1 according to the work. (Charging Means) The charging means is the photosensitive drum.
This is for uniformly charging the surface of 7.
In the example, the charging roller 8 is rotatably attached to the frame body 12.
Also, a so-called contact charging method is used. Charging roller 8 is gold
A metal roller shaft 8a is provided with a conductive elastic layer, and
A high resistance elastic layer is provided on top of this, and a protective film is further provided on the surface.
It becomes Conductive elastic layer is elastic such as EPDM and NBR
Roller shaft 8 composed of carbon dispersed in rubber layer
It serves to guide the bias voltage supplied to a. High again
The elastic layer of resistance is made of urethane rubber, etc.
As an example, one containing fine powder is used.
The charging roller with high conductivity such as the pinhole of the ram 7 faces each other.
Even if it does, limit the leak current to the photosensitive drum 7.
It acts to prevent a sudden drop in bias voltage. In addition, the protective layer
Conductive elastic layer composed of N-methylmethoxylated nylon
And the plastic material of the high resistance elastic layer touches the photosensitive drum 7.
So that the surface of the photosensitive drum 7 is not deteriorated.
To work. The charging roller 8 is connected to the photosensitive drum 7
The charging roller 8 to the photoconductor during image formation.
The drum 7 rotates following the rotation of the drum 7, and at this time, the charging roller
8 is applied by superimposing DC voltage and AC voltage on top of each other.
The surface of the photosensitive drum 7 is uniformly charged. (Exposure Section) The exposure section 9 is attached to the charging roller 8.
Therefore, on the surface of the uniformly charged photosensitive drum 7, the optical system
1 is exposed to an optical image to be electrostatically applied to the surface of the drum 7.
A cartridge frame 1 for forming a latent image
To provide an opening 9 for guiding the optical image on the upper surface of 2.
Therefore, the exposure unit is configured. (Developing Means) The developing means 10 is shown in FIG.
A toner reservoir 10a for storing toner, and
The direction of the arrow for sending the toner into the toner reservoir 10a
A toner feeding member 10b that rotates in the opposite direction is provided. Further
It has a magnet 10c inside,
The developing sleeve 10d that forms a thin toner layer is
It is provided at a minute distance from the ram 7. A toner layer is formed on the surface of the developing sleeve 10d.
When it is formed, it causes friction between the toner and the developing sleeve 10d.
Therefore, it is enough to develop the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 7.
Obtain triboelectric charge. It also controls the toner layer thickness.
Therefore, a developing blade 10e is provided. (Cleaning Means) Cleaning Means 1
As shown in FIG. 2, the structure of No. 1 is the surface of the photosensitive drum 7.
To scrape off the toner remaining on the drum 7.
Cleaning blade 11a and the scraped off
Positioned below the blade 11a to scoop toner.
Placed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 7
To store the sheet 11b and the waste toner that has been scooped
And waste toner reservoir 11c. 20 is a handle and 21 is a guide.
When mounted on the mounting body, it engages with the guide G1 on the body side. (Bearing Structure of Developing Sleeve) Next, referring to FIG.
The bearing structure of the developing sleeve 10d will be described. The book
The developing sleeve 10d used in the embodiment is made of aluminum.
Roughening the surface of the cylindrical member by sandblasting, etc.
Then, apply the conductive paint with the pigment dispersed on it.
It Therefore, the toner layer is formed on the surface of the developing sleeve 10d.
When formed, friction between the toner and the developing sleeve 10d
To develop the electrostatic latent image on the photoconductor drum 7.
Obtain sufficient triboelectric charge. The drive provided in the main body of the image forming apparatus
Photosensitized from the motor M through the gear 21 provided in the main body of the apparatus.
To the body drum flange gear 7a, and to the drum flange gear
The driving force is transmitted to the sleeve gear 10e via the 7a.
The photosensitive drum 7 and the developing sleeve 10d rotate.
(Fig. 6). Here, in this embodiment, the developing sleeve 1
0d and its end flange 10f are holding members for the rotating body.
To the sleeve cap 10g which is
Is held. That is, the end portion of the developing sleeve 10d
Spans the outer circumference of the flange 10f fitted to the
Groove 10h1 is provided on the sleeve cap 10g.
A plurality of recesses 10h2 facing the groove 10h1 are provided on the inner circumference.
Between the groove 10h1 and the recess 10h2.
A ball 10i, which is a rolling element having a diameter, is rotatably provided. Immediately
In this embodiment, the function of the inner ring of the bearing is the flange 1
0f and the sleeve cap 10g doubles as the outer ring.
I'm sleeping. The sleeve cap 10g is the housing 1
It is held at 2. The material of the sphere 10i is, for example, metal.
Flange, even if it is a hard plastic with abrasion resistance
And the material of the sleeve cap can be selected as appropriate.
It Further, in the above-described embodiment, the groove 10h is formed on the flange 10f.
1. The recess 10h2 is provided in the sleeve cap 10g.
However, the flange 10f has a recess 10h2,
The groove 10h1 may be provided in the sleeve cap 10g.
Furthermore, because there are no grooves all around
Also, a concave portion is formed in the portion where the spheres 10i are provided in a plurality of locations in the entire circumferential direction.
It may be provided. In this embodiment, the flange 10f and
The material of the sleeve cap 10g is rigid plastic
However, the present invention is not limited to this, and metal such as stainless steel
Is also good. With the bearing structure as described above,
When the developing sleeve 10c rotates, the sphere 10i rotates freely.
However, the friction coefficient is lower than that of plain bearings, and significant torque
Down can be realized and the conventional ball bearing is incorporated.
The device can be made smaller than the case. The bearing structure is limited to the above-mentioned structure.
Not a thing. Second Embodiment Hereinafter, regarding other bearing configurations
explain. The members having the same functions as those in the first embodiment are the same.
A number is attached. [Second Embodiment] Next, referring to FIG.
An example will be described. FIG. 4 is a vertical sectional view of a part of the developing means.
It is shown. In this embodiment, a circle is used instead of the sphere.
A cylindrical roller 10j is used. The roller 10j is a sleeve carrier
Up to 10 g of inner wall surface
(B) It is rotatably held by the holding portion 10k. This roller
The holding portion 10k is a vertical plate 10k1 provided facing each other.
At k2, shafts 10j1 and j provided at the end of the roller 10j
It holds 2 rotatably. By doing this
Easy to hold the roller 10j on the sleeve cap 10g
In addition, the torque reduction is the same as in the first embodiment.
It was possible to obtain the effect of. Incidentally, this embodiment is also
Not only the image sleeve 10d but also a rotating body, for example,
For example, it can be appropriately applied to the mounting of the photosensitive drum, charging roller, etc.
It Furthermore, the roller holding portion 10 is attached to the flange 10f.
You may attach k. [Third Embodiment] Next, referring to FIG.
An example will be described. In the first and second embodiments
Of the developing sleeve 10 and / or the photosensitive drum 7
The rotating member keeps the outer peripheral surface against the cartridge frame 12.
An example in which it is held and rotatable is shown. On the other hand
In this embodiment, the case where the inner peripheral surface of the rotating member is held is
Show. A flap fitted to the end of the developing sleeve 10d.
The groove 10f2 is provided in the inner diameter portion 10f1 of the flange 10f,
Side plate of the toner frame 12a which is a part of the cartridge frame 12
A pair of dowels (shafts) 10m groove 10f2
A plurality of concave portions 10m1 are formed on the facing surface, and the grooves 10f2, 1
Roll the ball 10i between 0 ml. This ball 10i is the second implementation
A roller like the example may be used, and the material is metal or lubricity.
A certain hard plastic or the like may be used. Configured like this
Also, torque reduction similar to the first and second embodiments described above, etc.
Has the effect of. [Fourth Embodiment] FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 (a)
A fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. This example
3 illustrates a bearing structure of the photosensitive drum 7. This exposure
The drum flange gear 7a is provided at the longitudinal end of the body drum 7.
Is fixed to the shaft portion 7a1 of the flange gear 7a.
Is not shown in the frame 12b of the process cartridge B.
With the holder 15 which is a holding member fixed by a screw
Therefore, it is held through a plurality of balls 16 which are rolling elements.
It Here, in the shaft portion 7a1 of the flange gear 7a,
Is the position of the sphere 16 in the rotation direction of the photosensitive drum 7.
A plurality of recesses 7a2 for restricting the placement are provided (FIG. 7).
(See (a) and (b)). Also, how to assemble the bearing part
Stand the photosensitive drum 7 so that the flange gear 7a faces upward.
Put the ball 16 into the recess 7a2 and keep its posture.
Set it on the frame 12b with the holder 15
Is to be assembled. As described above, the photosensitive drum 7 and the photosensitive drum 7 are rotated.
A sphere 16 should be provided between the movably holding holder 15 and the holder 15.
Therefore, compared to the case of using a conventional plain bearing,
The drive torque of the body drum 7 can be reduced by about 20 to 50%.
And are possible. In addition, the inner ring and outer ring of the rolling bearing are
7a1 and holder 15 also serve as the axial direction of the photosensitive drum 7.
And a concave portion 7a2 provided on the shaft portion 7a1 for position regulation in the rotation direction.
When the conventional rolling bearing is installed by
It is cheaper than that, and it is possible to reduce the size of the device.
It was In this embodiment, the motor provided in the main body of the apparatus is
The driving force of the motor M is transmitted to the flange gear 7a via the gear 21.
Has reached Then, the flange gear 7a is used to
The flange gear 10f of the image sleeve 10d is rotated.
Further, 10 g is a spacer roller, and the developing sleeve 1
The gap between 0d and the photosensitive drum 7 is maintained. Again
In addition, the photosensitive drum 7 has a photosensitive member 7c on the surface of the sleeve 7b.
Has been applied. 7a3 and 10f1 are gear parts
is there. Even if the gear portions 7a3 and 10f1 have flat teeth,
It may be a helical tooth, but drive transmission is good if it is a helical tooth.
It is done smoothly. [Fifth Embodiment] In the fourth embodiment described above,
The shaft portion 7a1 of the photosensitive drum 7 is provided with a recess 7a2, and the ball 1
6 shows an example in which the position regulation of No. 6 is performed, but FIGS. 8 and 9 (a)
・ As shown in (b), the position of the ball 16 is restricted by the holding member.
It may be performed by a certain holder 15. 8 and 9
In the embodiment shown in (a) and (b), the inner diameter portion of the holder 15
15b over the rotation direction of the photosensitive drum 7
The concave portions 15a corresponding to the number of the balls 16 are provided. This recess
The sphere 16 was incorporated in the portion 15a and set in the frame 12b
The holder 15 is attached to the shaft portion 7a1 of the photosensitive drum 7.
It is assembled. Even in this way, the above-mentioned fourth embodiment
The same effect as the case can be obtained. [Sixth Embodiment] As shown in FIG.
Not only the holder but also the third embodiment as the holding member for the rotating body.
Similarly, attach to the end of the photosensitive drum 7, which is a rotating body.
The position in which it is fitted and fixed to the frame body 12b to the beam flange gear 7a.
Hold the photoconductor drum 7 by inserting the positioning shaft 17
The same is true for the case. In this example, the flange gear
7a in the inner diameter of the photosensitive drum 7 in the rotating direction.
The sphere 16 is mounted in the recess 7a2 provided at several places,
Set the drum 7 on the frame 12b and set the positioning shaft 17
Structured to fit into the hole of the lunge gear 7a and assemble
is doing. Even in this way, due to the rolling of the ball 16,
The rotation torque of the photoconductor drum 7 becomes small. Also ball 16
The flange 7a2 of the flange gear 7a causes the photosensitive drum to move.
The position of the rotation axis and rotation direction of the frame 7 is restricted. [Seventh Embodiment] The embodiment shown in FIG.
Note that the structure is substantially the same as that of the sixth embodiment, but the position of the ball 16 is restricted.
Is performed by the positioning shaft 17.
That is, in this embodiment, it was attached to the frame body 12b.
A mounting recess 17a for the ball 16 is provided on the outer diameter portion of the positioning shaft 17.
The position of the ball 16 mounted by the recess 17a
I am trying to control. In this way, the positioning shaft 17
Even if the recess 17a is provided, the same effect as that of the sixth embodiment can be obtained.
You can [Eighth Embodiment] The fourth to seventh embodiments described above.
In the example, the ball 16 is placed in a recess provided in the rotating body or the holding member.
By mounting, the axial and rotational direction of the rotating body
Although an example in which the position is regulated is shown, FIG. 12 and FIG.
It may be configured as shown in 13 (a) and (b). sand
That is, the shaft portion 7a1 of the flange gear 7a has a large diameter portion and a small diameter portion.
And the stepped portion 7a4 in the rotation direction of the photoconductor 7
Providing a plurality of recesses 7a6 across (FIG. 13 (a).
(B)). On the other hand, a holder 15 for holding the shaft portion 7a1
Also, the step portion 15b is provided. To assemble this,
Place the photoconductor drum 7 with the lunge gear 7a facing up.
The sphere 16 is placed on the recess 7a6 in an upright state, and the sphere 16 is placed on the frame 1
Assemble holder 15 to shaft 7a1 after setting to 2b
Kick In this way, the sphere 16 is placed in the recess 7a3.
Therefore, the position of the photosensitive drum 7 in the rotational direction is regulated,
The concave portion 7a3 and the step portion 15b prevent the photosensitive drum 7 from rotating.
Position regulation in the axis of rotation direction is performed. Sphere 1
The rotation torque of the photoconductor drum 7 is reduced by interposing 6
You can [Ninth Embodiment] The embodiment shown in FIG.
The structure is substantially the same as that of the eighth embodiment and is the same as that of the eighth embodiment.
The recess is provided on the holder 15 side. That is, this fruit
In the embodiment, the inner diameter of the holder 15 is composed of a large diameter portion and a small diameter portion.
Then, a plurality of concave portions 15c are provided in the step portion. On the other hand, feeling
Shaft part 7a of flange gear 7a attached to optical body drum 7
1 is also provided with a stepped portion 7a4.
Place the ball 16 on the part 15c and set it on the frame 12b.
The shaft 7a1 of the photosensitive drum 7 is assembled from below.
Even in this case, the same effect as in the eighth embodiment can be obtained.
it can. [Tenth Embodiment] In the above-mentioned embodiment, the ball 1 is used.
By mounting 6 in the recess,
An example is shown where the placement is restricted. However, FIG. 15 and FIG.
As shown in FIG. 16, a retainer 18 that serves as a regulating member is used.
The position of the ball 16 may be regulated. That is, the figure
As shown in FIG. 16, the plurality of ball receiving portions 18a are connected to the connecting portion 18
It is connected by b.
Composes the player 18. Then, as shown in FIG.
When the ball 16 is attached to the ball receiving portion 18a of the retainer 18,
The ring groove provided on the shaft portion 7a1 of the flange gear 7a.
The engaging portion 18a5 is elastically deformed to engage the engaging portion 7a5.
Stop and turn the retainer 18 with the ball 16 attached to the shaft 7a1.
Engage rollably. After that, attach the holder 15 to the shaft portion 7a1.
Assemble. With this retainer 18, the sphere 16 becomes a photosensitive member.
The position of the drum 7 in the direction of the rotation axis is restricted, and each ball 16
The spacing of is regulated to a constant value by the retainer 18. By using the retainer 18 in this manner, the shaft
A ball 1 which is a rolling element only by providing a locking portion 7a5 on the portion 7a1.
6 can be mounted, and the rotation of the photosensitive drum 7 when driving
The rolling torque can be reduced. [Eleventh Embodiment] The embodiment shown in FIG.
The configuration is substantially the same as that of the tenth embodiment, and is shown in the tenth embodiment.
The retainer 18 is engaged with the holder 15.
That is, the retainer 18 having the engaging portion 18c formed outward
A ball 16 was attached and formed on the inner diameter of the holder 15.
It is locked to the locking part 15d consisting of a ring groove, and this is
It is attached to the shaft portion 7a1 of the jig gear 7a. In this way, the retainer 18 is attached to the holder 15.
Even if it is stopped, the same effect as the tenth embodiment can be obtained.
You can [Twelfth Embodiment] The embodiment shown in FIG.
The drive of the configuration shown in the seventh embodiment (see FIG. 11) described above is used.
Intake hole 17b is formed in the positioning shaft 17, and
It is connected to 17a. A ball that is a rolling element
When assembling 16, the intake hole on the side opposite to the recess 17a
A suction tool 19 is attached to the end of 17b to suck the ball 1
When 6 is fitted in the recess 17a, the ball 16 is attracted to the recess 17a.
It becomes a state. Therefore, with the photosensitive drum 7 lying down,
Even if assembled, the ball 16 may fall off from the recess 17a.
Therefore, it becomes easy to assemble. In addition, illustration
Although not, the fifth embodiment (see FIG. 8) and the sixth embodiment (see FIG. 8)
10), the mounting recess of the ball 16 is on the holder side.
If the suction hole is provided in the holder 15,
Installed in the holder 15 by sucking the intake hole with a tool
By sucking the sphere 16 into the concave portion,
Can be installed. [Thirteenth Embodiment] In the above-mentioned embodiment, the recess is formed.
The ball 16 was attached to the. However, FIG.
As shown in, a cylindrical roller 20 is used instead of the sphere 16.
The shaft portion 7 has a recess 7a6 in which the roller 20 can be mounted.
It is provided at the outer diameter portion of a1 or the inner diameter portion of the holder 15. That
When the position of the roller 20 is regulated by the lever recess 7a6
Together, the roller 20 is interposed between the rotating body and the holding member,
The rotating torque of the rotating body may be reduced. [Other Embodiments] In the above-mentioned embodiment,
Photoconductor drum 7 or developing sleeve 10c that is a rotating body
A ball or roller as a rolling element is brought into contact with.
However, if it is not limited to this, this ball or roller
Made of metal, conductive plastic, conductive elastomer
And the holder 15, which is a holding member, is also made of a conductive material.
And make it possible to contact electrodes etc. with this holder.
Good. By doing this, the photosensitive drum 7 is grounded.
And applying a voltage to the developing sleeve 10c.
You can do it easily. On the other hand, the balls or rollers that are the rolling elements are
Stick, nylon or polyacetal, or hard rubber
You may comprise with elastomers, such as. In this case, the rotating body
It is possible to absorb the impact in the radial direction of rotation of the rotating body during driving.
It is possible, and the radius of the rolling elements is made slightly larger,
By press-fitting the
It is possible to eliminate the generation of gaps due to the roughness. In addition, in the above-described embodiment, a ball that is a rolling element or
An example in which rollers are provided only on the side where the flange gear is provided is shown.
However, this is because the driving force is transmitted through the flange gear.
Therefore, a large force is applied to the holding member on the drive side of the rotating body.
This is because. However, this rolling element is
If it is provided on both sides, the effect of reducing the rotating torque is even greater.
Or even if it is provided only on the non-driving side,
There is some effect in reducing the rotational torque. Further, in the above-described embodiment, it is felt as a rotating body.
The optical drum 7 or the developing sleeve 10c will be described as an example.
However, the present invention is not limited to this.
No other rotating member in the process cartridge such as the charging roller 8
Any of these can be applied. In addition, the photoconductor drum and development
You may use for a some rotating member like a sleeve. Further, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the rotating body is held.
Although the holder 15 is illustrated as an example of the holding member, the cartridge
Even if the rotating body is directly held by the frame itself
Good. Further, the process cart according to the present invention described above.
Ridge B is only for forming a single color image as described above.
However, a plurality of developing means are provided, and images of multiple colors (for example, 2
Cars that form color images, three-color images or full-color images)
It can also be suitably applied to a trench. As the image carrier, the photosensitive drum is used.
The following are included, for example, without being limited thereto. Destination
Instead, a photoconductor is used as the photoconductor.
For example, amorphous silicon, amorphous selenium, acid
Contains zinc oxide, titanium oxide, organic photoconductor (OPC), etc.
Get caught Also, for the shape to mount the photoconductor, for example,
For example, drum-shaped, belt-shaped and other rotating bodies and sheets are included.
Be done. Generally, drum-shaped or belt-shaped
It is used in, for example, drum type photoconductor
Is a photoconductor deposited on a cylinder of aluminum alloy or the like.
Is what was applied. As a developing method, a known two-component magnetic
Brush development method, cascade development method, touchdown development
Method, cloud development method, etc.
Noh. The structure of the charging means is also the same as that of the first embodiment.
In the example, the so-called contact charging method was used, but as another configuration,
Around the three sides of the traditionally used tungsten wire
A metal shield such as aluminum is applied to the
Positive or negative caused by applying high voltage to the ear
Ions of the drum are moved to the surface of the photosensitive drum,
It goes without saying that a configuration in which the surface is uniformly charged may be used.
is there. The charging means is of the roller type or above.
Outside, blade type (charging blade), pad type, blow type
It may be a hook type, a rod type, a wire type or the like. The toner remaining on the photoconductor drum is cleared.
Blades, fur brushes, magnetism
You may comprise a cleaning means using a brush etc. The above-mentioned process cartridge is
At least, for example, an electrophotographic photoreceptor as an image carrier,
Also has one of the process means. Therefore,
As the aspect of the process cartridge of
In addition to the examples, for example, the image carrier and the charging means are integrated.
Made into a cartridge that can be attached to and detached from the device body
of. Image carrier and developing unit are integrated into a cartridge
However, it can be attached to and detached from the device body. Image carrier and Cree
The cartridge is integrated with the
What can be attached and detached. Further, the image carrier and the above process
Carti by combining two or more means
There is a device that can be attached to and detached from the device body. That is, the above-mentioned process cartridge
Is a charging means, a developing means or a cleaning means and an electronic copy.
The cartridge is integrated with the true photoconductor, and this cartridge
The plug is removable from the main body of the image forming apparatus.
is there. In addition, the number of charging means, developing means, and cleaning means is small.
At least one cartridge and electrophotographic photosensitive member
It can be attached to and detached from the main body of the image forming apparatus.
It Furthermore, at least the developing means and the electrophotographic photosensitive member are integrated.
Made into a cartridge that can be attached to and detached from the main body of the device
Say. In the above-described embodiment, the photosensitive drum 7 and
This process is performed by converting the developing sleeve 10c into a cartridge.
An example of a device for forming an image by mounting a cartridge is illustrated.
However, if the photosensitive drum 7 and the developing sleeve 10c are
An image directly attached to the main body of the device
The present invention can be similarly applied to the image forming apparatus.
It Further, in the above-described embodiment, the image forming apparatus is used.
The laser beam printer has been illustrated by way of example.
It is not necessary to limit to, for example, an electrophotographic copying machine, a facsimile
Other image formation such as a simulator or a word processor
Of course, it can also be used in a device. Each of the above-described embodiments is rotated by the rotation of the rolling element.
There is rolling resistance between the body and the holding member, and the process cartridge
To reduce torque and load fluctuation.
it can. Therefore, rotating the rotating body with a small rotating torque.
Can be rotated, drive sources such as motors and drives such as gears
It is possible to reduce the size and cost of the transmission system. Also
Uneven rotation of the rotating body due to reduction of load fluctuation,
It is possible to reduce the density unevenness that occurs. In addition, the position of the rolling element is regulated by the rotating element or
By using the holding member, the bearing part
Can be provided at low cost without increasing the size of
You can Further, as rolling elements, plastic or elast
When using a tomer, shock or vibration when driving the rotating body
It is possible to absorb the
It is possible to reduce density unevenness on the image due to movement. As described in detail above, according to the present invention, rotation
Rotate the body with a small torque and rotate with a small torque
I was able to rotate my body.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a configuration explanatory view of an image forming apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 2A is a structural explanatory view of a process cartridge according to the present invention. (B) An external perspective view of the process cartridge according to the present invention. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of a bearing configuration of the developing sleeve according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a second embodiment using rollers as rolling elements. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of a third embodiment in which a dowel is used as a holding member for a rotating body. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of a fourth embodiment showing the bearing structure of the photosensitive drum. 7A is a side explanatory view showing a bearing structure of the photosensitive drum, and FIG. 7B is a perspective explanatory view showing a shaft portion of the photosensitive drum. FIG. 8 is a structural explanatory view of a fifth embodiment in which the position of rolling elements is regulated by a holder that is a holding member. FIG. 9 is a perspective explanatory view of a fifth embodiment. FIG. 10: Holds the photosensitive drum by a positioning shaft,
It is explanatory drawing of 6th Example which provided the recessed part in this flange gear. FIG. 11: Holds the photosensitive drum by a positioning shaft,
It is explanatory drawing of 7th Example which provided the recessed part in this shaft. FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram of an eighth embodiment in which a concave portion is provided on the shaft portion of the photosensitive drum, and the position of the sphere is regulated by the step portion provided on the drum shaft portion and the holder. FIG. 13 is a perspective explanatory view of an eighth embodiment. FIG. 14 is a ninth view in which a concave portion is provided on the photoconductor holder, and the position of the sphere is regulated by a step provided on the drum shaft portion and the holder
It is explanatory drawing of an Example. FIG. 15 is a structural explanatory view of a tenth embodiment in which the position of rolling elements is restricted using a retainer. FIG. 16 is a perspective explanatory view of a retainer. FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram of an eleventh embodiment for locking the retainer to the holder. FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram of a twelfth embodiment in which a suction hole is provided and a rolling element is adsorbed and assembled. FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram of a thirteenth embodiment using rollers as rolling elements. [Description of Reference Signs] A Image forming apparatus B Process cartridge 1 Optical system 1a Optical unit 1b Laser diode 1c Polygon mirror 1d Scanner motor 1e Imaging lens 1f Reflecting mirror 2 Recording medium 3 Conveying means 3a Cassette 3b Pickup rollers 3c1, 3c2 Registration rollers 3d Conveying roller 3e Guide plate 3f Discharging roller 4 Transfer means 5 Fixing means 5a Driving roller 5b Heater 5c Fixing roller 6 Discharging section 7 Photoreceptor drum 7a Drum flange gear 7a1 Shaft section 7a2 Recessed section 7a3 Recessed section 7a4 Step section 7a5 Recessed section 7a6 Recessed section 8 charging roller 8a roller shaft 9 exposure section 10 developing means 10a toner feeding member 10b magnet 10c developing sleeve 10d developing blade 10e sleeve gear 10f end flange 10g sleeve cap 10h groove 10i ball 1 j Roller 10k Roller holding portion 11 Cleaning means 11a Cleaning blade 11b Squeeze sheet 11c Waste toner reservoir 12 Housing 12a Toner frame 12b Cleaning frame 13 Device body 14 Open / close cover 14a Hinge 15 Holder 15a Recess 15b Step 15c Recess 15d Retaining portion 16 Sphere 17 Positioning shaft 17a Recess 17b Intake hole 18 Retainer 18a Ball receiving portion 18b Connecting portion 18c Engaging portion 19 Suction tool 20 Cylindrical roller

   ─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continued front page    (72) Inventor Isao Ikemoto             Kyano, 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo             Within the corporation (72) Inventor Shigeo Miyabe             Kyano, 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo             Within the corporation

Claims (1)

Claim: What is claimed is: 1. A process cartridge mountable to an image forming apparatus main body, comprising: a rotating body; a holding member for holding the rotating body; and the holding member between the rotating body and the holding member. A process cartridge having a plurality of rolling elements that are incorporated separately from the members. 2. The rolling element includes a groove formed on an outer circumference of an end flange of the rotating body, the groove extending over the entire circumference in the rotation direction of the rotating body, and a plurality of locations on an inner circumference of a cap that supports the rotating body. The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the process cartridge engages with a provided recess. 3. The rolling element includes a groove provided on an inner circumference of an end flange of the rotating body over an entire circumference in a rotation direction of the rotating body, and a shaft projecting from a cartridge frame supporting the rotating body. A plurality of recesses provided on the outer periphery of the
The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the process cartridge is engaged with each other. 4. The rolling element comprises a plurality of grooves provided on an inner periphery of a cap that supports the rotating body over an entire circumference in a rotation direction of the rotating body and an outer periphery of an end flange of the rotating body. The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the process cartridge is engaged with a concave portion provided at a location. 5. The rolling element includes a groove provided on an outer periphery of a shaft protruding from a cartridge frame that supports the rotating body over the entire circumference in a rotation direction of the rotating body, and an end flange of the rotating body. Recesses provided at a plurality of locations on the inner circumference,
The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the process cartridge is engaged with each other. 6. The rolling element is engaged with recesses provided at a plurality of locations on an outer circumference of an end flange of the rotating body in the rotation direction of the rotating body. Process cartridge described. 7. The rolling element is engaged with recesses provided at a plurality of positions on an inner circumference of an end flange of the rotating body in the rotation direction of the rotating body. The process cartridge described in 1. 8. The rolling element is engaged with recesses provided at a plurality of locations on the inner circumference of a cap that supports the rotating body in the rotation direction of the rotating body. The process cartridge described in 1. 9. The rolling element is engaged with recesses provided at a plurality of locations on the outer periphery of a shaft projecting from a cartridge frame supporting the rotating body in the rotating direction of the rotating body. The process cartridge according to claim 1, which is characterized in that. 10. The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the rolling element is assembled to a rolling element holding member provided on an end flange of the rotating element. 11. The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the rolling element is assembled to a rolling element holding member provided on a cap that supports the rotating element. 12. The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the holding member regulates the position of the rolling element in the axial direction and the rotational direction of the rotating body. 13. The position regulation of the rolling element in the axial direction of the rotating body is performed by the rotating body and the holding member, and the position regulation of the rolling body in the rotating direction of the rotating body is performed by the rotating body. The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein: 14. The position regulation of the rolling element in the axial direction of the rotating body is performed by the rotating body and a holding member, and the position regulation of the rolling body in the rotating direction of the rotating body is performed by the holding member. The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein: 15. A regulation member that regulates the position of the rolling element in the rotation direction of the rotating body, and the regulation member is engaged with the rotating body to regulate the position of the rolling element in the axial direction of the rotating body. The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein 16. A regulation member that regulates the position of the rolling element in the rotation direction of the rotating body, and the regulation member is engaged with the holding member to regulate the position of the rolling element in the axial direction of the rotating body. The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein 17. The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the rolling element is made of plastic or elastomer. 18. The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the rolling element is made of a conductive member and electrically connected to the rotating element via the rolling element. 19. The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the rolling element is provided only on a driving force transmitting side of the rotating body at an axial end portion of the rotating body. 20. The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the rolling element has a spherical shape. 21. The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the rolling element has a cylindrical shape. 22. The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the rotating body is a photosensitive drum as an image carrier. 23. The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the rotating body is a developing sleeve as a developer carrying body. 24. The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the rotating body is a charging roller as a charging unit. 25. The process cartridge comprises a charging means, a developing means or a cleaning means as a process means, and an electrophotographic photosensitive member as the image bearing member, which are integrally formed into a cartridge, and the cartridge is provided in an image forming apparatus main body. The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the process cartridge is removable. 26. The process cartridge comprises at least one of a charging unit, a developing unit, and a cleaning unit as a process unit, and an electrophotographic photosensitive member as the image carrier, which are integrally formed into a cartridge to form an image forming apparatus main body. The process cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 12, which is removable from the process cartridge. 27. The process cartridge is a cartridge in which at least a developing unit as a process unit and an electrophotographic photosensitive member as the image bearing member are integrally made into a cartridge so as to be attachable to and detachable from an image forming apparatus main body. The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein 28. A rotating body mounted on a process cartridge mountable to a main body of an image forming apparatus via rolling elements, comprising: a cylindrical member; and a mounting portion provided on the cylindrical member for mounting the rolling body. A rotating body having. 29. The rotating body according to claim 28, wherein the rotating body is a photosensitive drum. 20. The rotating body according to claim 28, wherein the rotating body is a developing sleeve. 31. The rotating body according to claim 28, wherein the rotating body is a charging roller. 32. The rotating body according to claim 28, wherein the mounting portion is provided on a flange provided on the cylindrical member, and is thereby provided on the cylindrical member. 33. The rotating body according to claim 28, wherein the attachment portion is a groove provided in a flange attached to the cylindrical member. 34. The rotating body according to claim 28, wherein the attachment portion is a recess provided in a flange attached to the cylindrical member. 35. The rotating body according to claim 28, wherein the attachment portion is a retainer provided on a flange attached to the cylindrical member, the retainer connecting a plurality of ball receiving portions. 36. A method of attaching a rolling element to a process cartridge attachable to a main body of an image forming apparatus, comprising: a rotatable rotating body; and a supporting member supporting the rotating body, wherein the rotating body is rotatable. In order to make the above smooth, a rolling element is directly rotatably incorporated between the cylindrical member and the support member. 37. The mounting method according to claim 26, wherein the rotating body is a photosensitive drum. 38. The mounting method according to claim 36, wherein the rotating body is a developing sleeve. 39. The mounting method according to claim 36, wherein the rotating body is a charging roller. 40. The mounting method according to claim 36, wherein the support member is a frame of a process cartridge. 41. The mounting method according to claim 36, wherein the support member is a cap supported by a frame of the process cartridge. 42. The rolling element of the rotating body is sucked from an intake hole provided in the rolling element regulating position of the rotating body for regulating the position of the rolling element in the axial direction and the rotating direction of the rotating body. 4. The suction member is sucked to a regulation position, and the holding member is assembled to the rotating body in that state.
The attachment method according to item 6. 43. The rolling element of the holding member is sucked from an intake hole provided in the rolling element regulating position of a holding member for regulating the position of the rolling element in the axial direction and the rotation direction of the rotating body. 37. The mounting method according to claim 36, wherein the rotary member is attached to the regulation position and is assembled to the holding member in that state. 44. An image forming apparatus capable of mounting a process cartridge and forming an image on a recording medium, comprising: a. A process cartridge mounting unit having a rotating body, a holding member for holding the rotating body, and a plurality of rolling elements incorporated between the rotating body and the holding member separately from the holding member; b. An image forming apparatus comprising: a conveying unit configured to convey a recording medium. 45. The image forming apparatus according to claim 44, wherein the image forming apparatus is an electrophotographic copying machine. 46. The image forming apparatus according to claim 44, wherein the image forming apparatus is a laser beam printer. 47. The image forming apparatus according to claim 44, wherein the image forming apparatus is a laser beam printer. 48. The image forming apparatus according to claim 44, wherein the image forming apparatus is a facsimile apparatus. 49. The image forming apparatus according to claim 44, wherein the image forming apparatus is an LED printer.