KR102251926B1 - Developing cartridge mountable to main assembly of image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

A developer carrier having a developer; A developing frame body rotatably supporting the developer carrying body; One end-side end member supporting one end of the developing frame body in the axial direction of the developer carrying body of the developer carrying body; And an end member on the other end side for supporting the other end side of the developing frame body in the axial direction of the developer carrying member. Each of the one end member and the other end member is independently rotatable with respect to the developing frame body.

Description

Developing cartridge that can be attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus {DEVELOPING CARTRIDGE MOUNTABLE TO MAIN ASSEMBLY OF IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS}

The present invention develops an electrostatic latent image formed on a photosensitive drum, a developing device detachable/removable to/from the apparatus body of an image forming apparatus, and forming a developer image on the photosensitive drum, and forming an image. It relates to a process cartridge attachable/removable to the device body of the device. Further, the present invention relates to an image forming apparatus for forming an image on a recording medium using electrophotographic technology.

BACKGROUND ART [0002] An image forming apparatus has conventionally been known for forming an image on a recording medium such as a sheet using electrophotographic technology. Examples of the image forming apparatus include printers (laser beam printers, LED printers, etc.), copiers, facsimile devices, word processors, and multifunction printers (multifunction printers).

In such an image forming apparatus, first, a photosensitive drum is uniformly charged by a charging roller. Further, the charged photosensitive drum is selectively exposed to form an electrostatic image on the photosensitive drum. The electrostatic image formed on the photosensitive drum is developed as a toner image by a developing device. Further, the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum is transferred to a recording medium such as a recording paper and a plastic sheet. After that, the toner image transferred onto the recording material is heated and pressurized so that the toner image is fixed to the recording medium. In this way, an image is formed on the recording medium.

In such an image forming apparatus, a photosensitive drum, a charging roller, a developing device, and the like are integrated with each other as cartridges so that maintenance of parts in the image forming apparatus can be easily performed. Further, as the process cartridge, there are known configurations such as a cleaning cartridge having a photosensitive drum, a developing cartridge as a developing device having a developing means, a toner cartridge supplying a developer, and the like.

Here, in the technique disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2013-182036, the developing cartridge can be attached/removed to/from the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus. The developing cartridge has a first frame body rotatably supporting the developing roller, and a second frame body rotatably supporting both ends of the first frame body in the longitudinal direction of the developing roller. Further, with the developing cartridge mounted on the image forming apparatus, the second frame body of the developing cartridge is positioned, and the first frame body is rotatable. Accordingly, the developing roller can contact and separate from the photosensitive drum.

However, in the technique disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-182036, a second frame body for rotatably supporting both ends of the first frame body in the longitudinal direction of the developing roller is configured as one member. Accordingly, in order to provide a region for connecting portions supporting both ends of the first frame body to the second frame body, it is necessary to increase the size of the developing cartridge.

The present invention has an object of suppressing an increase in size of a developing cartridge as a developing apparatus.

A developing cartridge mountable to a main body of an image forming apparatus according to the present invention comprises: a developing roller; A frame including a toner chamber for accommodating toner, a first end, and a second end opposite to the first end with respect to the axial direction of the developing roller, wherein a part of the developing roller is exposed to the outside of the frame. The frame rotatably supporting the roller; A connecting member installed adjacent to the first end of the frame and operably connected to the developing roller; A first support member attached to a first end of the frame and movable with respect to the frame; And a second support member attached to a second end of the frame and movable with respect to the frame and the first support member, wherein the first support member includes a protrusion, and the second support member comprises a protrusion. Wherein the protrusion of the first support member is positioned above the first support member, and when the developing cartridge is oriented so that the developing roller is positioned above the toner chamber, the protrusion is away from the frame in the axial direction of the developing roller. It protrudes, and the protrusion of the second support member is located above the second support member and protrudes upward when the developing cartridge is oriented so that the developing roller is located above the toner chamber.

Further features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings.

According to the present invention, it is possible to suppress an increase in the size of a developing cartridge as a developing apparatus.

1A and 1B are diagrams for explaining the configuration of a front end member and a proximal regulating member.
2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment;
3 is an external perspective view of the drum cartridge according to the first embodiment;
4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the drum cartridge according to the first embodiment;
5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the developing cartridge according to the first embodiment;
Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an operation of mounting the developing cartridge in the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment;
7 is an exploded perspective view of the developing cartridge according to the first embodiment;
8 is an external view of the developing cartridge as viewed from the rear end member side according to the first embodiment;
9A and 9B are cross-sectional views of the developing cartridge on the side of the rear end member according to the first embodiment;
Fig. 10 is a diagram showing a developing cartridge in a state mounted in the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment;
11 is a modified example of the developing cartridge according to the first embodiment;
Fig. 12 is a diagram showing a state in which the developing cartridge according to the first embodiment is positioned with respect to the image forming apparatus;
13 is a perspective view and a cross-sectional view of the developing cartridge according to the first embodiment, respectively,
14 is a perspective view and a cross-sectional view of a conventional developing cartridge, respectively;
15A and 15B are partial cross-sectional views of a rear end member according to a second embodiment,
Fig. 16 is an external perspective view of a front end member according to a second embodiment;
17A and 17B are external perspective views of a proximal end regulating member according to a second embodiment;
18A and 18B are external perspective views of the rear end member according to the second embodiment;
Fig. 19 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a departure preventing member according to a third embodiment;
Fig. 20 is an exploded perspective view of the developing cartridge according to the third embodiment;
21A and 21B are schematic cross-sectional views of a rear end member according to a third embodiment,
Fig. 22 is a view showing a state in which the developing cartridge is mounted in the image forming apparatus;
Fig. 23 is an exploded perspective view of the developing cartridge according to the fourth embodiment;
Fig. 24 is an external view of the developing cartridge as seen from the rear end member side according to the fourth embodiment;
25A and 25B are cross-sectional views of the developing cartridge on the side of the rear end member according to the fourth embodiment;
Fig. 26 is a diagram showing an operation of mounting the developing cartridge in the image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment;
27A to 27C are views for explaining mounting of the developing cartridge according to the fourth embodiment;
Fig. 28 is a view showing a state in which the developing cartridge according to the fourth embodiment is mounted in the image forming apparatus;
Fig. 29 is a view showing a state in which the developing cartridge according to the fourth embodiment is mounted on the apparatus body.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the dimensions, materials, shapes, relative arrangements, etc. of the constituent parts described in the embodiments may be appropriately changed depending on the configuration of the apparatus to which the present invention is applied, various conditions, and the like. Accordingly, the dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative arrangements of the constituent parts described in the above embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention to the following embodiments.

(Example 1)

(Overall configuration of image forming device)

First, the overall configuration of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus 100 (hereinafter, referred to as the image forming apparatus 100) will be described with reference to FIG. 2. As shown in Fig. 2, four photosensitive drum cartridges 9 (hereinafter referred to as drum cartridges 9) 9Y to 9K, and four developing apparatuses 4 (hereinafter referred to as developing cartridges 4). ) (4Y to 4K) are attached to the image forming apparatus 100 by means of a mounting member (not shown). Here, in the direction in which the drum cartridge 9 and the developing cartridge 4 are inserted in the image forming apparatus 100, the upstream side is defined as the closer side, and the downstream side is defined as the rear side. A developing cartridge according to an embodiment of the present invention is formed separately from a drum cartridge having a photoreceptor drum, and is configured to be detachable to/from the image forming apparatus 100, respectively. The developing cartridge will be described in detail later.

In Fig. 2, the drum cartridge 9 and the developing cartridge 4 are disposed in the image forming apparatus 100 so as to be inclined with respect to the horizontal direction. In addition, in each drum cartridge 9, an electrophotographic photosensitive drum 1 (hereinafter referred to as a photosensitive drum 1) 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d as an image carrier, and the periphery of the photosensitive drum 1 The charging rollers 2 (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d) as charging members disposed on are installed. Further, each drum cartridge 9 is provided with process means such as cleaning members 6 (6a, 6b, 6c, 6d) as cleaning members. Here, in each of the drum cartridges 9, process means such as the photosensitive drum 1, the charging roller 2, and the cleaning member 6 are integrally configured.

Further, in each of the developing cartridges 4 (4Y to 4K), processes such as developing rollers 25 (25a to 25d) as developer carriers, and developing blades (35) (35a to 35d) as developer regulating members. Means are installed integrally. The charging roller 2 uniformly charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 1, and the developing roller 25 develops the latent image (electrostatic latent image) formed on the photosensitive drum 1 by a developer (hereinafter, referred to as toner). do. In other words, the developing roller 25 has a toner as a developer for developing an electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 1. Further, the cleaning member 6 removes the toner as a developer remaining on the photosensitive drum 1 after the toner image as a developer image formed on the photosensitive drum 1 is transferred to the recording medium S.

Further, under the drum cartridge 9 and the developing cartridge 4, a scanner unit as an exposure apparatus that selectively exposes the photosensitive drum 1 based on image information to form an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 1 ( 3) is installed. Further, in the lower portion of the image forming apparatus 100, a cassette 17 in which the recording medium S is accommodated is mounted. Further, a recording medium conveying means for conveying the recording medium S is provided so that the recording medium S is conveyed above the image forming apparatus 100 via the secondary transfer roller 69 and the fixing unit 74. Specifically, as a recording medium conveying means, a feeding roller 54 for separating and feeding one recording medium S in the cassette 17 at a time, and a conveying roller pair 76 for conveying the fed recording medium S are provided. . Further, as the recording medium conveying means, a pair of register rollers 55 for synchronizing the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 1 and the recording medium S are provided.

Further, above the drum cartridge 9 and the developing cartridge 4, an intermediate transfer unit 5 for transferring the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 1 (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) is provided as intermediate transfer means. Is installed. The intermediate transfer unit 5 includes a drive roller 56, a driven roller 57, and a primary transfer roller 58 (58a, 58b, 58c) disposed at a position opposite to the photosensitive drum 1 of each color. , 58d) and a counter roller 59 disposed at a position opposite to the secondary transfer roller 69. Further, the transfer belt 14 as an intermediate transfer member is spanned by a drive roller 56, a driven roller 57, a primary transfer roller 58, and a secondary transfer roller 69. Further, the transfer belt 14 circulates while facing and in contact with all the photosensitive drums 1. Further, when a voltage is applied to the primary transfer rollers 58 (58a, 58b, 58c, 58d), the toner image as a developer image is first transferred from the photosensitive drum 1 onto the transfer belt 14.

As described above, each photosensitive drum 1 is uniformly charged by the charging roller 2 while rotating, and further selectively exposed by the scanner unit 3. Thus, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum 1. This electrostatic latent image is developed by the developing roller 25. Accordingly, a toner image of each color is formed on each photosensitive drum 1. In addition, in synchronization with the formation of such a toner image, the resist roller pair 55 contacts the recording medium S, and the counter roller 59 and the secondary transfer roller 69 contact each other via the transfer belt 14. Return to the location.

Further, when a transfer bias voltage is applied to the secondary transfer roller 69, the toner image of each color on the transfer belt 14 is secondaryly transferred to the recording medium S. The recording medium S onto which the toner image as the color developer image has been transferred is heated and pressurized by the fixing unit 74. Therefore, the toner image is fixed on the recording medium S. After that, the recording medium S is discharged to the discharge unit 75 by the discharge roller 72. At this time, the fixing unit 74 is disposed above the image forming apparatus 100.

(Configuration of drum cartridge)

Next, a drum cartridge 9 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 3 is an external perspective view of the drum cartridge 9 (9Y, 9M, 9C, 9K). Further, the configurations of the drum cartridges 9Y to 9K are the same. In this embodiment, as described above, in the insertion direction of the drum cartridge 9 and the developing cartridge 4, the upstream side is defined as the closer side, and the downstream side is defined as the rear side. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the drum cartridge 9.

With respect to the cleaning frame body 27 in the drum cartridge 9 (9Y, 9M, 9C, 9K), the photosensitive drum 1 has a drum front bearing 10 and a drum back bearing ( It is rotatably supported by 11). Further, a drum coupling 16 and a flange (not shown) are provided at one end of the photosensitive drum 1 in the rotational axis direction. Around the photosensitive drum 1, as described above, a charging roller 2 and a cleaning member 6 are provided.

The cleaning member 6 is composed of a rubber blade 7 and a cleaning support member 8. The tip portion 7a of the rubber blade 7 is disposed so as to contact the photosensitive drum 1 in a counter direction with respect to the rotational direction of the photosensitive drum 1. Further, the residual toner removed from the surface of the photosensitive drum 1 by the cleaning member 6 falls into the removed toner chamber 27a. Further, a squeegee sheet 21 that prevents toner from leaking from the removed toner chamber 27a is in contact with the photosensitive drum 1. Further, when a driving force is transmitted from the main body drive motor (not shown) to the drum cartridge 9, the photosensitive drum 1 is rotationally driven in accordance with the image forming operation. Further, the charging roller 2 is rotatably attached to the drum cartridge 9 via a charging roller bearing 28 and is pressed toward the photosensitive drum 1 by a charging roller pressing member 33. The charging roller 2 rotates so as to follow the photosensitive drum 1.

(Composition of developing cartridge)

Next, the configuration of the developing cartridge 4 as a developing device will be described with reference to Figs. Fig. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a developing cartridge 4 (4Y, 4M, 4C, 4K) as a developing apparatus. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the developing cartridge 4. Further, in this embodiment, the developing cartridge 4Y containing the toner as a yellow developer, the developing cartridge 4M containing the magenta toner, and the developing cartridge 4C containing the cyan toner have the same configuration. . Further, the configuration of the developing cartridge 4K in which the black toner is accommodated is also the same.

Here, the developing cartridge 4 as a developing device supplies a developing roller 25 rotating in the direction of an arrow B while contacting the photosensitive drum 1, and a toner supply as a supply member rotating while contacting the developing roller 25. It has a roller 34. Further, the developing cartridge 4 has a developing blade 35 that controls or regulates toner (thickness of a toner layer) on the developing roller 25 and a toner conveying member 36. Here, the developing device is a device for developing an electrostatic latent image formed on the photoconductor drum with a developer, and is composed of a developing means, a developing frame body supporting the developing means, a component related to the developing means, and the like. Further, examples of the developing means include a developing roller, an application roller, and a developing blade. Further, the developing cartridge 4 as a developing device includes a developing roller 25, a toner supply roller 34, a developing blade 35, and a developing frame body 31 supporting the toner conveying member 36. Have.

The developing frame body 31 has a developing chamber 31c in which the developing roller 25 is disposed, and a toner accommodating chamber 31a provided below the developing chamber 31c. Further, the toner accommodating chamber 31a and the developing chamber 31c are partitioned by partition walls 31d. Further, the partition 31d is provided with an opening 31b that communicates the toner accommodating chamber 31a and the developing chamber 31c with each other. Further, as described above, in the toner receiving chamber 31a of the developing frame body 31, the toner is conveyed to the developing chamber 31c through the opening 31b while stirring the stored toner as a developer. The member 36 is installed.

As shown in Fig. 7, the developing roller 25 and the toner supply roller 34 are located at both ends in the axial direction of the developing roller 25, on the front developing bearing 12 and the rear developing bearing 13. It is supported to be rotatable. In other words, the front developing bearing 12 and the rear developing bearing 13 are members supported like a rotating shaft or a bearing as a part of the developing frame body 31. Further, at the rear end of the toner supply roller 34, a developing coupling 23 (drive receiving portion) is provided. Further, at the near end of the toner supply roller 34, a toner supply gear 30 is provided. At the near end of the developing roller 25, a developing gear 29 that meshes with the toner supply gear 30 is provided. For this reason, when the driving force is transmitted from the main body drive motor (not shown) to the developing coupling 23, the toner supply roller 34 and the developing roller 25 are driven to rotate according to the image forming operation.

Further, a gear cover 20 is provided outside the developing gear 29 and the toner supply gear 30. In other words, the gear cover 20 is a gear cover 20 as a part of the developing frame body 31. Here, the configuration of the developing frame body 31 described above is referred to as a developing unit 39. At one end and the other end in the axial direction of the developing roller 25 of the developing frame body 31, a front end member 37 (corresponding to one end member or first end member) and a rear end member 38 ( Corresponding to the other end member or the second end member) is installed. In other words, the front end members 37 are provided at one ends of both ends of the developing unit 39 in the axial direction of the developing roller 25. Further, rear end members 38 are provided on the other ends of both ends of the developing unit 39 in the axial direction of the developing roller 25. In the rear end member 38, a hook hole as a rear supported hole engaged with a boss 13a (corresponding to the other end side engaging portion) as a rear support shaft provided in the rear developing bearing 13 (38a) (corresponds to the engaging portion of the other end side) is provided. In addition, in the front end member 37, a hook hole 37a as a near side supported hole that engages with the boss 20a (corresponding to the one-end engaging portion) provided on the gear cover 20 as a near-side support shaft ( One end side to be hooked, corresponding to the fitting part) is installed. In addition, the boss 20a is provided so as to protrude from the gear cover 20 in the direction of the front end member 37. The front end member 37 and the rear end member 38 are rotated about an axis Y (corresponding to the rotation axis) connecting the boss 13a of the rear developing bearing 13 and the boss 20a of the gear cover 20 It is attached as possible. In other words, the front end member 37 and the rear end member 38 have a rotation axis Y (corresponding to the first rotation axis) passing through the boss 13a of the rear developing bearing 13 and the boss 20a of the gear cover 20. It is attached to be rotatable around. This rotation axis Y extends in the axial direction of the developing roller 25. It is preferable that the rotation axis Y is parallel to the axial direction of the developing roller 25. Further, in this embodiment, since the boss 13a and the boss 20a are concentric, the rotation axis Y coincides with both the rear and the near side. Accordingly, the developing unit 39 is rotatable about one rotation axis Y connecting the boss 13a and the boss 20a to each other. Further, the front end member 37 rotatably supports one end side in the axial direction of the developing roller 25 of the developing unit 39, while rotating in the axial direction of the developing roller 25 of the developing unit 39 It is configured not to support the other end. The rear end member 38 rotatably supports the other end side in the axial direction of the developing roller 25 of the developing unit 39, while one end side in the axial direction of the developing roller 25 of the developing unit 39 It is configured not to support. In other words, the front end member 37 and the rear end member 38 support one of the one end side and the other end side of the developing frame body 31 in the axial direction of the developing roller 25, while the developing frame body ( 31) is constructed so that it does not support the other side of the other end. Further, in this embodiment, the front end member 37 and the rear end member 38 are each independently rotatable with respect to the developing frame body 31. In other words, as shown in FIG. 7, the front end member 37 is rotatable with respect to the developing frame body 31 and the rear end member 38. The rear end member 38 is rotatable with respect to the developing frame body 31 and the front end member 37. In other words, when the front end member 37 rotates with respect to the developing frame body 31, the rear end member 38 may be stationary with respect to the developing frame body 31 and the front end member 37. . Further, when the rear end member 38 rotates with respect to the developing frame body 31, the front end member 37 may be stationary with respect to the developing frame body 31 and the rear end member 38. In addition, in this embodiment, the developing frame body 31 takes a plurality of positions with respect to the front end member 37. Further, one of the plurality of positions is a developing position for forming an image with toner on the recording medium S.

(Configuration of attaching/removing the drum cartridge (9) and the developing cartridge (4))

Next, referring to Fig. 6, a configuration in which the drum cartridge 9 and the developing cartridge 4 are mounted on the main body of the image forming apparatus 100 will be described. In addition, in this embodiment, the drum cartridge 9 (9Y, 9M, 9C, 9K) and the developing cartridge 4 (4Y, 4M, 4C, 4K) are provided with the openings 101 ( 101a, 101b, 101c, 101d). Here, in this embodiment, in the axial direction (preferably parallel direction) of the photosensitive drum 1, the drum cartridge 9 is inserted in the direction of arrow F in Fig. 6 from the near side toward the rear. Further, in this embodiment, the direction in which the developing cartridge 4 is inserted into the openings 101 (101a, 101b, 101c, 101d) of the apparatus body 100 is a direction parallel to the axial direction of the photosensitive drum 1 (Direction of arrow F). In other words, in the axial direction (preferably parallel direction) of the developing roller 25, the developing cartridge 4 is inserted in the direction of arrow F in Fig. 6 from the near side toward the rear. In addition, as described above, in the present embodiment, in the direction in which the drum cartridge 9 and the developing cartridge 4 are inserted, the upstream side is defined as the closer side, and the downstream side is defined as the rear side.

On the upper side of the image forming apparatus 100, a body mounting upper guide portion 103 (103a, 103b, 103c, 103d) is provided. Below the image forming apparatus 100, a body mounting lower guide portion 102 (102a, 102b, 102c, 102d) is provided. The body mounting upper guide portion 103 and the body mounting lower guide portion 102 have a shape extending along the arrow F direction of the drum cartridge 9 (axial direction of the photosensitive drum 1). In addition, in a state that is aligned with the body mounting lower guide portion 102 on the near side in the direction of the arrow F, the drum cartridge 9 includes the body mounting upper guide portion 103 and the body mounting lower guide portion 102. It moves in the direction of arrow F along. In this way, the drum cartridge 9 is inserted into the image forming apparatus 100.

In addition, a body mounting upper guide portion 105 (corresponding to the first guide portion) is provided on the upper side of the apparatus body, and a body mounting lower guide portion 104 (corresponding to the second guide portion) is provided at the lower side. The body-mounted upper guide portion 105 and the body-mounted lower guide portion 104 each have a guide shape extending along the F direction indicated by an arrow into which the developing cartridge 4 is inserted. The developing cartridge 4 as the developing apparatus is inserted into the image forming apparatus 100 in the same manner as in the case of inserting the drum cartridge 9 into the image forming apparatus 100. That is, in the near side in the direction of arrow F (axial direction of the developing roller 25), the developing cartridge 4 is provided with a body-mounted upper guide portion 105 installed above the image forming apparatus 100, and It fits with the body-mounted lower guide part 104 installed below the image forming apparatus 100. Further, in the direction of the arrow F, the developing cartridge 4 is moved along the body mounting upper guide portion 105 and the body mounting lower guide portion 104.

Specifically, as shown in Fig. 7, the front end member 37 is provided with a third body mounted upper guide portion 105 as a first guide portion installed in the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100. A guided portion 37k (corresponding to one end-side guided portion) as a guided portion is provided. Further, in the front end member 37, the guided portion as a fourth guided portion guided by the body-mounted lower guide portion 104 as a second guide portion provided in the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100 A portion 37h (corresponding to the first guided portion) is provided. On the other hand, the rear end member 38 is provided with a guided portion 38m (corresponding to the other end of the guided portion) as a first guided portion guided by the body-mounted upper guide portion 105 as a first guide portion. Further, the rear end member 38 is provided with a guided portion 38n (corresponding to the other end of the guided portion) as a second guided portion guided by the body-mounted lower guide portion 104 as a second guide portion. Further, the guided portion 37k and the guided portion 38m are guided by the body-mounted upper guide portion 105, and the guided portion 37h and the guided portion 38n are guided by the body-mounted lower guide portion 104. Accordingly, when the developing cartridge 4 is inserted, the developing cartridge 4 is inserted into the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100. As shown in Fig. 7, in this embodiment, the developing cartridge 4 is inserted with the rear end member 38 facing downstream in the insertion direction. In other words, in the insertion direction, the rear end member 38 is disposed on the downstream side of the front end member 37. In other words, the rear end member 38 is disposed downstream of the developing frame body in the insertion direction, and the front end member 37 is disposed upstream of the developing frame body 31 in the insertion direction.

(Configuration of rear end member 38)

Next, the configuration of the rear end member 38 will be described with reference to Figs. 7 to 9A and 9B. 8 is an external view of the developing cartridge 4 as viewed from the rear end member 38 side. 9A and 9B are cross-sectional views of the developing cartridge 4 on the rear end member 38 side (a cross-sectional view taken along line K-K in FIG. 8). As shown in Fig. 7, in the rear developing bearing 13, a rear regulating member 40 (regulating member or the other end side) that controls or regulates the rotation of the rear end member 38 relative to the rear developing bearing 13 Corresponding to the regulation member) is installed. The rear regulating member 40 extends in a direction in which the developing cartridge 4 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 100 in a posture in which the developing cartridge 4 is attached/removed from/to the image forming apparatus 100. It is a protrusion. Further, the rear regulating member 40 is movable in a direction in which the developing cartridge 4 as a developing apparatus is attached/removed to/from the image forming apparatus 100.

In addition, as shown in Figs. 9A and 9B, inside the rear regulating member 40, the regulating spring 41 (the other end side) as a urging member to the spring supporting portion 13b of the rear developing bearing 13 Corresponding to the biasing member) is attached. The regulating spring 41 as a biasing member adjusts the direction in which the developing cartridge 4 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 100 in a posture in which the developing cartridge 4 is attached/removed from/to the image forming apparatus 100. The rear regulating member 40 is pressed toward it. Further, the regulating spring 41 urges the rear regulating member 40 in a direction in which the rear regulating member 40 and the groove 38f (corresponding to the regulated portion or the other end regulated portion) engage. On the other hand, the rear end member 38 is provided with a groove 38f capable of engaging with the regulating portion 40a in the rear regulating member 40. The groove 38f penetrates in a direction in which the developing cartridge 4 is attached/removed to/from the image forming apparatus 100. Further, as described above, the rear developing bearing 13 is provided with a boss 13a, and the rear end member 38 is provided with a hook hole 38a capable of engaging with the boss 13a.

Here, in the state in which the developing cartridge 4 is not attached to the image forming apparatus 100, the hook hole 38a and the boss 13a are engaged with each other, and the regulating portion 40a and the groove portion 38f are It is engaged (see Figs. 8 and 9A). In this way, when the regulating portion 40a and the groove portion 38f are engaged with each other, the rear end member 38 cannot rotate around the boss 13a of the rear developing bearing 13. In other words, when the rear regulating member 40 is fitted into the groove 38f, the rear developing bearing 13 is positioned with respect to the rear end member 38.

On the other hand, when the rear regulating member 40 is pressed in the direction P in Figs. 9A and 9B with the regulating portion 40a and the groove 38f engaged with each other, the rear regulating member 40 becomes the regulating spring 41 ), it moves in the P direction. Here, the P direction is a direction opposite to the direction in which the developing cartridge 4 is inserted into the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100. Accordingly, the engagement between the regulating portion 40a in the rear regulating member 40 and the groove portion 38f in the rear end member 38 is released (see Fig. 9B). In this state, the developing frame body 31 is freely rotatable with respect to the rear end member 38 with the boss 13a of the rear developing bearing 13 as the center. Here, FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a state in which the developing cartridge 4 is mounted on the main body of the image forming apparatus 100. In this embodiment, the rear regulating member 40 is pressed in the P direction by an engagement release portion 90 provided in the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus 100.

That is, the state before the development cartridge 4 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 100 and the rear regulating member 40 is pressed by the engagement release portion 90 installed in the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100 In a state in which it is not present, the rear regulating member 40 and the groove 38f are engaged with each other. For this reason, the rear developing bearing 13 is positioned with respect to the rear end member 38. However, in conjunction with the operation in which the developing cartridge 4 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 100, the rear regulating member 40 is pressed by the engagement release portion 90, and the rear regulating member 40 and the groove 38f are pressed. When the engagement between) is released, the rear developing bearing 13 becomes rotatable with respect to the rear end member 38. Here, when the rear regulating member 40 is pressed by the engagement release portion 90 in the direction in which the developing cartridge 4 is removed from the image forming apparatus 100, the rear regulating member 40 and the groove 38f ), the alignment is released. At this time, when viewed from a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis Y of the developing unit 39, the rear regulating member 40 and the groove 38f do not overlap. Accordingly, the developing unit 39 is rotatable with respect to the rear end member 38. Further, the rotation axis Y of the rear developing bearing 13 is, in the posture in which the developing cartridge 4 is attached/removed from/to the image forming apparatus 100, the developing cartridge 4 is moved to/from the image forming apparatus 100. It is oriented in a direction (preferably parallel to the image forming apparatus 100).

As described above, in the present embodiment, in the state where the developing cartridge 4 is not mounted on the image forming apparatus 100, since the regulating portion 40a and the groove portion 38f are engaged, the rear developing bearing 13 ) Cannot rotate with respect to the rear end member 38. On the other hand, in the state in which the developing cartridge 4 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 100, the engagement between the regulating portion 40a and the groove portion 38f is released, so that the rear developing bearing 13 is moved to the rear end member 38. ) Can be rotated. Here, the regulating portion 40a of the rear regulating member 40 is interlocked with the operation of inserting the developing cartridge 4 into the image forming apparatus 100, and is installed in the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100. It is pressed by the engagement release portion 90. Accordingly, the engagement between the regulating portion 40a and the groove portion 38f is released.

(Composition of the front end member)

Next, with reference to Figs. 1A and 1B, Figs. 7 and 10, the configuration of the front end member 37 will be described. 1A and 1B are diagrams for explaining the configuration of the front end member 37 and the near side regulating member 60. 10 is a diagram showing the developing cartridge 4 in a state in which the developing cartridge 4 is mounted in the image forming apparatus 100. As shown in FIG. 1A and 1B are views when the developing cartridge 4 shown in FIG. 10 is viewed from the G direction. 1A is a diagram showing a state in which the developing cartridge 4 is mounted in the image forming apparatus 100, and FIG. 1B is a diagram illustrating a state in which the mounting of the developing cartridge 4 to the image forming apparatus 100 is completed. It is a drawing shown.

As shown in Fig. 7, in this embodiment, in order to prevent the front end member 37 from rotating with respect to the front developing bearing 12 and the gear cover 20, the boss 37c of the front end member 37 is The limiting member 60 near to) is attached rotatably. The proximal regulating member 60 corresponds to a regulating member or one end regulating member. Here, the boss 37c (the extension direction of the boss 37c corresponds to the second rotation axis) extends in a direction intersecting with the axial direction of the developing roller 25 (preferably a direction perpendicular to it). . Further, the near-side regulating member 60 is rotatably supported with a boss 37c as a central axis. The boss 37c extends in a direction crossing the direction in which the developing cartridge 4 is inserted into the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus 100. That is, the near side regulating member 60 is in a posture in which the developing cartridge 4 is attached/removed from/to the image forming apparatus 100, and the developing cartridge 4 is attached/removed from/to the image forming apparatus 100. It is possible to rotate around a rotation axis extending in a direction intersecting the direction of removal (preferably orthogonal). In addition, as shown in Fig. 7, in order to urge the near regulating member 60 in one direction in the rotational direction of the near regulating member 60, the near regulating member 60 and the front end member ( A torsion coil spring 50 is attached between 37). The torsion coil spring 50 corresponds to a biasing member or a biasing member at one end. The torsion coil spring 50 is the near-side regulation member 60 in a direction in which the near-side regulation member 60 and a groove portion 20c (corresponding to one end-side regulated portion) are engaged with each other. ). By the biasing force of the torsion coil spring 50, as shown in Fig. 1, the near side regulating member 60 is biased against the abutting portion 37d as the regulating portion of the front end member 37. Has been. In a direction in which the adjacent regulating member 60 and the groove 20c are engaged with each other, the near regulating member 60 rotates, so that the engagement between the near regulating member 60 and the groove 20c is not released, The abutting portion 37d controls or regulates the rotation of the adjacent regulating member 60 at a predetermined position.

On the other hand, as shown in Figs. 1A, 1B and 10, the gear cover 20 is provided with a groove portion 20c that engages with the restricting portion 60a of the adjacent restricting member 60. Here, the groove portion 20c is a groove formed by ribs 20b1 and 20b2, as shown in Fig. 10. In addition, as described above, the gear cover 20 is provided with a boss 20a, and the front end member 37 is rotatable about the boss 20a as a central axis.

Further, the front end member 37 is provided with a hook hole 37a that can be engaged with the boss 20a. In addition, the boss 20a and the hook hole 37a in the gear cover 20 are engaged with each other, and the regulating portion 60a in the adjacent regulating member 60 and the groove in the gear cover 20 With the (20c) engaged with each other, the front end member 37 is attached to the gear cover 20. As described above, by attaching the front end member 37 to the gear cover 20, rotation of the front end member 37 with the boss 20a as a central axis can be controlled or regulated. Further, in a state in which the developing cartridge 4 is not mounted on the image forming apparatus 100, the near side regulating member 60 takes the posture shown in Fig. 1A.

Further, when the developing cartridge is inserted into the image forming apparatus 100, when the contact portion 60b of the near side regulating member 60 comes into contact with the main body mounting lower guide portion 104, the near side regulating member 60 ) Rotates in the R direction. As a result, as shown in Fig. 1B, the engagement between the restricting portion 60a in the near side restricting member 60 and the groove portion 20c in the gear cover 20 is released. In other words, in the present embodiment, the main body mounting lower guide portion 104 has a function as an engagement release portion for releasing engagement by the near side restricting member 60. At this time, when viewed from a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis Y direction of the developing unit 39 (corresponding to the first rotation axis direction), the regulation portion 60a and the groove portion 20c do not overlap. In this state, the gear cover 20 and the developing frame body 31 are rotatable with respect to the front end member 37 around the boss 20a.

Here, in the present embodiment, the regulating portion 60a in the adjacent regulating member 60 and the groove portion 20c in the gear cover 20 are engaged with each other, so that the front end member 37 is geared. Rotation with respect to the cover 20 is controlled or regulated. However, the configuration is not necessarily limited to the above, and other configurations may be used. For example, as shown in Fig. 11, the tension spring 70 is a boss in the front end member 37 so as to bring the front end member 37 into contact with the boss 20f in the gear cover 20. It may be configured to be attached between the 37e and the boss 20d in the gear cover 20. In this case, the front end member 37 comes into contact with the boss 20f of the gear cover 20 so that the front end member 37 does not rotate with respect to the gear cover 20.

(Positioning of the developing cartridge relative to the image forming device)

Next, referring to Fig. 12, a configuration for positioning the developing cartridge 4 with respect to the image forming apparatus 100 will be described. As shown in Fig. 12, the front end member 37 is provided with a guided portion 37k (which also functions as a position to be positioned at one end) and a guided portion 37h (which also functions as a rotation stop at one end). . On the other hand, in the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus 100, the main body first positioning unit 99a (corresponding to the first positioning unit) and the main body first rotation stop unit 106 (corresponding to the first rotation stop unit) Should) is installed. Further, in the state in which the mounting of the developing cartridge 4 to the image forming apparatus 100 is completed, the guided portion 37k and the main body first positioning portion 99a are engaged with each other, and the guided portion 37h and the main body first are engaged with each other. The rotation stops 106 are engaged with each other. Accordingly, the front end member 37 is positioned relative to the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100.

Further, the rear end member 38 is provided with a second target positioning portion 38c (corresponding to the other end positioning portion) and a second rotation stop portion 38d (corresponding to the other end rotation stop portion). . On the other hand, in the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus 100, the main body second positioning unit 98a (corresponding to the second positioning unit) and the main body second rotation stop unit 98b (corresponding to the second rotation stop unit) Should) is installed. Further, in the state in which the mounting of the developing cartridge 4 to the image forming apparatus 100 is completed, the second positioning portion 38c and the main body second positioning portion 98a are engaged, and the second rotation is stopped. The part 38d and the main body 2nd rotation stop part 98b are engaged. Accordingly, the rear end member 38 is positioned relative to the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100.

In addition, as described above, in conjunction with the operation of attaching the developing cartridge 4 to the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100, the rear regulating member 40 is provided by the engagement release unit 90 (see Fig. 22). Is pressurized. Accordingly, the engagement between the rear regulating member 40 and the groove 38f is released, so that the rear developing bearing 13 is rotatable with respect to the rear end member 38. On the other hand, on the side of the front end member 37, in conjunction with the operation of attaching the developing cartridge 4 to the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100, the contact portion 60b of the adjacent regulating member 60 is mounted on the body. It contacts the lower guide part 104. Accordingly, the near side regulating member 60 rotates, and the front end member 37 is rotatable with respect to the gear cover 20.

As described above, in this embodiment, in the state before the developing cartridge 4 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 100, the front end member 37 and the rear end member 38 are guided by the apparatus body at the time of mounting. In contrast, the gear cover 20 and the rear developing bearing 13 are positioned. Accordingly, in the operation of attaching the developing cartridge 4 to the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100, it is possible to suppress the contact of the developing roller 25 to the photosensitive drum 1. Further, in the state in which the mounting of the developing cartridge 4 to the image forming apparatus 100 is completed, the gear cover 20 and the rear developing bearing 13 with respect to the front end member 37 and the rear end member 38 are It becomes rotatable, and the developing roller 25 and the photosensitive drum 1 can be in contact with and spaced apart from each other. As described above, in this embodiment, in the operation in which the developing cartridge 4 is attached/removed to/from the image forming apparatus 100, the posture of the developing unit 39 can be fixed, and the developing roller 25 And the photosensitive drum 1 can be suppressed from rubbing against each other. In addition, in this embodiment, the position of the developing frame body 31 when the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing roller 25 contact each other is defined as a developing position.

13 is a perspective view and a cross-sectional view of the developing cartridge 4 according to the present embodiment, respectively. 14 is a perspective view and a cross-sectional view of a conventional developing cartridge 4, respectively. Conventionally, as shown in Fig. 14, by using a connection member 80c connecting the front end member 37 and the rear end member 38, the front end member 37 and the rear end member 38 are They were connected to each other. However, in this embodiment, the front end member 37 and the rear end member 38 are configured as separate members. The front end member 37 and the rear end member 38 are each independently rotatable with respect to the developing unit 39. Further, the developing unit 39 is positioned by a front end member 37 and a rear end member 38, respectively. For this reason, the connection member 80c as in the prior art becomes unnecessary, and the developing cartridge 4 can be downsized.

As described above, in this embodiment, in the state before the developing cartridge 4 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 100, the front end member 37 is positioned with respect to the developing unit 39. As shown in FIG. On the other hand, in a state in which the developing cartridge 4 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 100, the front end member 37 is made rotatable with respect to the developing unit 39. Accordingly, in the operation of attaching the developing cartridge 4 to the image forming apparatus 100, it is possible to suppress the contact of the developing roller 25 to the photosensitive drum 1. In addition, in this embodiment, when the developing cartridge 4 is being inserted into the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100, the developing roller 25 does not contact the photosensitive drum 1, There is no need to increase the spacing between the photosensitive drums 1. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress an increase in the size of the image forming apparatus.

Further, in this embodiment, in the state before the developing cartridge 4 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 100, the rear end member 38 is positioned with respect to the developing unit 39. On the other hand, in the state where the developing cartridge 4 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 100, the rear end member 38 becomes rotatable with respect to the developing unit 39. Accordingly, in the operation of attaching the developing cartridge 4 to the image forming apparatus 100, it is possible to suppress the contact of the developing roller 25 to the photosensitive drum 1. In addition, in this embodiment, when the developing cartridge 4 is being inserted into the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100, the developing roller 25 does not contact the photosensitive drum 1, There is no need to increase the spacing between the photosensitive drums 1. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress an increase in the size of the image forming apparatus.

In addition, in this embodiment, the front end member 37 and the rear end member 38 are configured to be separate members, and the developing unit 39 is attached to the front end member 37 and the rear end member 38. Each position is determined by. For this reason, since the connecting member 80c as in the prior art becomes unnecessary, the developing cartridge 4 can be downsized.

Further, in the present embodiment, the front end member 37 and the rear end member 38 are each independently movable with respect to the developing unit 39. For this reason, compared with the case where the front end member 37 and the rear end member 38 are integrated, the developing cartridge 4 can be further downsized. Accordingly, the entire image forming apparatus can be downsized.

Further, in this embodiment, the developing cartridge 4 can be attached/removed to/from the image forming apparatus 100. However, other configurations may be used. For example, the process cartridge including the developing cartridge 4, the photosensitive drum 1, and the charging roller 2 may be detachable from/to/from the image forming apparatus 100.

In addition, for example, the cleaning apparatus having the cleaning member 6 may be detachable from/to/from the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100, and may be separately attached/detached to/from the developing cartridge 4 It may be possible. Alternatively, the photosensitive device having the photosensitive drum 1 may be detachable to/from the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100, or may be detachably attached/detached to/from the developing cartridge 4. .

(Example 2)

The second embodiment will be described. In this case, in the second embodiment, parts having the same functions as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted. 15A and 15B are partial cross-sectional views of the rear end member 38 according to the second embodiment. Fig. 16 is an external perspective view of the front end member 37 according to the second embodiment. 17A and 17B are external perspective views of the near side regulating member 60 according to the second embodiment. 18A and 18B are external perspective views of the rear end member 38 according to the second embodiment.

15A and 15B, the rear end member 38 has an abutting portion 38g, and the rear developing bearing 13 has an abutting portion 13g. Further, in the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus 100, a pull-in member 42 for pulling in the developing cartridge 4 in the direction in which the developing cartridge 4 is inserted is provided. When the developing cartridge 4 is inserted to a position where the pull-in receiving portion 38h of the rear end member 38 and the pull-in member 42 installed in the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100 contact each other, the pull-in The member 42 is pressed by the pull-in receiving portion 38h. Here, the pull-in member 42 is pressed by the pull-in receiving portion 38h toward the direction in which the developing cartridge 4 is inserted into the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100. When the pull-in member 42 is pressed by the pull-in receiving portion 38h, the pull-in member 42 in the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus 100 becomes the spring 43 as shown in Figs. 15A and 15B. Rotated by the negative force of Further, a part of the lead-in member 42 in the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus 100 presses the lead-in receiving portion 38h in the direction in which the developing cartridge 4 is inserted.

Here, when pulling out the developing cartridge 4 from the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100, the drawing member 42 pulls out the developing cartridge 4 against a pulling input for drawing in the developing cartridge 4. For this reason, a moment is generated in the rear end member 38 in the J direction in Fig. 15B with the second rotation center 38i (the engaging portion between the hook hole 38a and the boss 13a) as the center. Here, in this embodiment, the abutting portion 38g of the rear end member 38 and the abutting portion 13g of the rear developing bearing 13 are in contact with each other. For this reason, rotation of the rear end member 38 in the J direction with the second rotation center 38i as the center can be suppressed.

Further, in this embodiment, as shown in Figs. 17A and 17B, the abutting portion 37f is provided on the front end member 37, and the abutting portion 20e is provided on the gear cover 20. As shown in Figs. Moreover, a handle 37g is provided on the front end member 37, and when the developing cartridge 4 is pulled out from the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100, the handle 37g is held. Accordingly, a moment is generated in the front end member 37 in the L direction in Fig. 17B with the first rotation center 37p (the engaging portion between the hook hole 37a and the boss 20a) as the center. However, in this embodiment, the abutting portion 37f of the front end member 37 and the abutting portion 20e of the gear cover 20 are in contact with each other. For this reason, in this embodiment, rotation of the front end member 37 in the L direction with the first rotation center 37p as the center can be suppressed.

Next, with reference to Figs. 16, 17A, 17B, and 18A, 18B, the operation when the developing roller 25 in the developing unit 39 contacts the photosensitive drum 1 will be described. . When attaching/removing the developing cartridge 4 to/from the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100, as shown in Figs. 17B and 18A, the abutting portions 37f and 20e are in contact with each other, and the abutting portions 38g and 13g touch each other.

Further, when the developing cartridge 4 is mounted, the front end member 37 and the rear end member 38 are positioned relative to the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100, and the front end member 37 and the rear end member 38 becomes rotatable with respect to the developing unit 39. When the developing unit 39 becomes rotatable around the first rotation center 37p in the front end member 37 and the second rotation center 38i in the rear end member 38, the developing unit 39 The developing roller 25 in is in contact with the photosensitive drum 1.

When the developing roller 25 and the photosensitive drum 1 are in contact with each other, as shown in Fig. 16, when viewed from the axial direction of the developing roller 25, the abutting portion 37f in the front end member 37 is The positions of the abutting portions 20e in the gear cover 20 deviate from each other. The abutting portion 37f of the front end member 37 and the abutting portion 20e of the gear cover 20 are spaced apart from each other. Similarly, as shown in Fig. 18B, when the developing roller 25 and the photosensitive drum 1 contact each other, the abutting portion of the rear end member 38 as viewed from the axial direction of the developing roller 25 The positions of the abutting portion 13g in the 38g and the rear developing bearing 13 deviate from each other. The abutting portion 38g of the rear end member 38 and the abutting portion 13g of the rear developing bearing 13 are spaced apart from each other.

Therefore, in a state in which the developing roller 25 is in contact with the photosensitive drum 1, the abutting portion 37f of the front end member 37 and the abutting portion 20e of the gear cover 20 do not rub against each other. . Further, the abutting portion 38g of the rear end member 38 and the abutting portion 13g of the rear developing bearing 13 do not rub against each other. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the force by which the developing roller 25 presses the photosensitive drum 1 in the developing unit 39.

As described above, in this embodiment, the abutting portion 37f of the front end member 37 and the abutting portion 20e of the gear cover 20 are the first rotation in the front end member 37. They are in contact with each other at a position off the center of 37p. In addition, the abutting portion 38g of the rear end member 38 and the abutting portion 13g of the rear developing bearing 13 are at a position away from the second rotation center 38i of the rear end member 38. Contact. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress the front end member 37 from being inclined at the first rotation center 37p as a point, and the rear end member 38 from being inclined at the second rotation center 38i as the point. Further, operability when attaching/removing the developing cartridge 4 can be improved.

(Third Example)

Next, a third embodiment will be described. Here, in the third embodiment, parts having the same functions as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted. Fig. 19 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a separation preventing member (corresponding to a screw 81 and a washer 80) according to the third embodiment. Fig. 20 is an exploded perspective view of the developing cartridge 4 according to the third embodiment. 21A and 21B are schematic cross-sectional views of the rear end member 38 according to the third embodiment.

19 to 21A and 21B for a configuration in which the rear end member 38 is prevented from being dislodged from the boss 13a in the rear developing bearing 13 in the rotation axis Y direction of the rear end member 38. It will be described with reference. In the present embodiment, the rear end member 38 is in the rear developing bearing 13, and one end surface 38a1 of the hook hole 38a in the rear end member 38 is the surface of the root portion of the boss 13a. It is mounted to contact the 13e.

Further, with the rear end member 38 attached to the rear developing bearing 13, the screw 81 is inserted into the threaded portion 13d of the boss 13a. At this time, the washer 80 is held between the front end surface 13f of the boss 13a and the head of the screw 81. In addition, in this embodiment, the screw 81 and the washer 80 constitute a separation preventing member. Here, in the rear end member 38, the length of the hook hole 38a positioned between one end surface 38a1 and the other end surface 38a2 (the length in the rotation axis Y direction of the rear end member 38) is the root It is set smaller than the dimension from the surface 13e of the part to the tip end surface 13f. Accordingly, a part of the hook hole 38a in the rear end member 38 is between the surface 13e of the base portion of the boss 13a and the washer 80, the rotation axis Y of the rear end member 38 It is rotatably supported around. In addition, since the other end surface 38a2 of the rear end member 38 collides with the washer 80, in the direction of the rotation axis Y of the rear end member 38, the rear end member 38 is a rear developing bearing 13 It can be suppressed from deviating from.

As described above, in the rotation axis Y direction of the rear end member 38, the length of the hook hole 38a is set to be smaller than the dimension between the surface 13e of the root portion of the boss 13a and the washer 80. Has been. For this reason, a gap is created between the rear end member 38 and the surface 13e of the root portion of the boss 13a and the washer 80. Accordingly, there is a possibility that the rear end member 38 is inclined with respect to the rotation axis Y of the rear end member 38. Here, in this embodiment, the outermost shape I of the other end surface 38a2 of the rear end member 38 is set smaller than the outermost shape H of the washer 80. Accordingly, when the rear end member 38 is inclined, the edge portion of the outermost shape H of the washer 80 is suppressed from interfering with the rear end member 38.

Further, the other end surface 38a2 is an abutting surface for suppressing separation of the rear end member 38 from the rear developing bearing 13 in the rear end member 38. That is, the other end surface 38a2 of the rear end member 38 contacts only the flat portion of the washer 80. Thus, the rear end member 38 can rotate smoothly with respect to the developing unit 39. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the force by which the developing roller 25 in the developing unit 39 presses the photosensitive drum 1. In addition, in this embodiment, the screw 81 and the washer 80 are separate members. However, the above configuration is not necessarily limited to this. For example, the screw 81 and the washer 80 may be integrated. Further, in order to further suppress the rear end member 38 from detaching from the rear developing bearing 13, as the threaded portion 13d of the boss 13a, a separate nut may be embedded in the boss 13a and molded. . In addition, in this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 20, the front end member 37 is also, like the rear end member 38, with respect to the boss 20a by the washer 80 and the screw 81. It is prevented from leaving.

(Example 4)

A developing cartridge 4 as a developing apparatus according to the fourth embodiment will be described.

Also in the fourth embodiment, as shown in Fig. 23, the developing roller 25 and the toner supply roller 34 are of the developing frame body 31 provided on both sides of the developing roller 25 in the direction of the rotation axis. It is supported by the developing frame body 31 so as to be rotatable through the front developing bearing 12 and the rear developing bearing 13 as a part. A developing coupling 23 is installed at the rear end of the toner supply roller 34. Further, at the front end of the toner supply roller 34, a toner supply gear 30 is provided. At the front end of the developing roller 25, a developing gear 29 that meshes with the toner supply gear 30 is provided. For this reason, when the driving force is transmitted from the main body drive motor (not shown) as the drive source to the developing coupling 23, the toner supply roller 34 and the developing roller 25 are rotationally driven in accordance with the image forming operation. Further, outside the developing gear 29 and the toner supply gear 30, a gear cover 20 as a part of the developing frame body 31 is provided.

At both ends of the developing frame body 31 in the direction of the rotation axis of the developing roller 25, a front end member 37 (corresponding to one end member or first end member) and a rear end member 38 (the other end side) Corresponding to the end member or the second end member) is installed. The rear end member 38 is provided with a boss 13a (corresponding to the engaging portion on the other end) and a hook hole 38a (corresponding to the engaging portion on the other end) provided in the rear developing bearing 13 . In addition, the front end member 37 is provided with a boss 20a (corresponding to the one-end engaging portion) provided on the gear cover 20 and a hook hole 37a (corresponding to the one-end engaging portion) that engages. do. The front end member 37 and the rear end member 38 are rotatable with respect to a rotation axis Y connecting the boss 13a of the rear developing bearing 13 and the boss 20a of the gear cover 20. For this reason, the front end member 37 and the rear end member 38 are each independently rotatable with respect to the developing frame body 31.

In other words, as shown in Fig. 23, the front end member 37 rotatably supports one end of the developing unit 39 in the axial direction of the developing roller 25, while It is configured not to support the other end side in the axial direction of the developing roller 25. The rear end member 38 rotatably supports the other end side in the axial direction of the developing roller 25 of the developing unit 39, while one end side in the axial direction of the developing roller 25 of the developing unit 39 It is configured not to support. In other words, the front end member 37 and the rear end member 38 support one of the one end side and the other end side of the developing frame body 31 in the axial direction of the developing roller 25, while the developing frame body ( 31) is constructed so that it does not support the other side of the other end. Further, the front end member 37 is rotatable with respect to the developing frame body 31 and the rear end member 38. The rear end member 38 is rotatable with respect to the developing frame body 31 and the front end member 37. In other words, when the front end member 37 rotates with respect to the developing frame body 31, the rear end member 38 can stop with respect to the developing frame body 31 and the front end member 37. Further, when the rear end member 38 rotates with respect to the developing frame body 31, the front end member 37 can be stopped with respect to the developing frame body 31 and the rear end member 38.

(Configuration of the movement control part of the rear end member)

Next, a configuration for controlling or regulating the rotation of the rear end member 38 will be described with reference to Figs. 23 to 25A and 25B. Fig. 24 is a side view of the developing cartridge 4 according to this embodiment. 25A and 25B are diagrams (sectional views taken along line K-K in FIG. 24) for explaining a configuration in which the developing frame body 31 is positioned with respect to the rear end member 38.

As shown in Fig. 23, a regulating member 340 (corresponding to the regulating member or the regulating member at the other end) is attached to the rear developing bearing 13 as a means for controlling or regulating the rotation of the rear end member 38. Has been. In addition, a regulating spring 341 (corresponding to the biasing member or the other end biasing member) that can be attached to the spring support 313b in the rear developing bearing 13 is provided inside the regulating member 340, have. The regulating spring 341 imparts to the regulating member 340 a negative force acting in the direction in which the developing cartridge 4 is inserted. On the other hand, the rear end member 38 is provided with a regulating portion 340a of the regulating member 340 and a hookable groove portion 338b (corresponding to the regulated portion or the regulated portion at the other end). In addition, as described above, the rear developing bearing 13 is provided with a boss 13a serving as the pivotal axis of the developing frame body 31, and the rear end member 38 engages with the boss 13a. Possible hook holes 38a are provided.

In the rear end member 38, the hook hole 38a and the boss 13a are engaged with each other, and the regulating portion 340a and the groove portion 338b of the regulating member 340 are engaged with each other. It is attached to the furnace developing frame body 31 (see Figs. 24 and 25A). For this reason, when the rear end member 38 and the regulating member 340 are engaged with each other, the rotation of the rear end member 38 with the boss 13a as a central axis is restricted. On the other hand, when the regulating member 340 is pressed in the direction P in FIGS. 25A and 25B while the rear end member 38 and the regulating member 340 are engaged with each other, the regulating spring disposed inside the regulating member 340 In the compressed state 341, the regulating member 340 moves in the P direction. Then, the engagement between the regulating portion 340a in the regulating member 340 and the groove portion 338b in the rear end member 38 is released (see Fig. 25B). Accordingly, the developing frame body 31 is rotatable with respect to the rear end member 38 with the boss 13a in the rear developing bearing 13 as a central axis.

As described above, when the rear end member 38 and the regulating member 340 are engaged with each other to control or regulate the rotation of the rear end member 38, the developing cartridge 4 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 100. In a state in which the developing frame body 31 is not rotated with respect to the rear end member 38, the rotation of the developing frame body 31 is restricted. Further, when the developing cartridge 4 is mounted in the image forming apparatus 100, the regulating member 340 is moved in the P direction by a deregulation portion (not shown) provided in the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100. Pressurized. Accordingly, the engagement between the rear end member 38 and the regulating member 340 is released, so that the rear end member 38 is rotatable with respect to the developing frame body 31 (the rear end member 38 is Relative movement is allowed).

27A to 27C, a front cover 110 capable of opening/closing is provided near the main body of the image forming apparatus 100. When the front cover 110 is opened, the opening 101 for inserting the developing cartridge 4 is exposed. Further, as shown in Fig. 28, on the upper side of the opening 101, an upper guide 105 (corresponding to the first guide portion) as a guide member extending rearward from the near side is provided. Here, in this embodiment, the upper guide 105 is formed in a groove shape (concave shape). Further, under the opening 101, a lower guide 104 (corresponding to the second guide portion) as a guide member extending from the near side to the rear is provided. In this embodiment, the lower guide 104 is formed in a groove shape (concave shape). As shown in Fig. 28, also in this embodiment, the developing cartridge 4, in which the rear end member 38 is disposed on the downstream side in the insertion direction, is inserted. In other words, in the insertion direction, the rear end member 38 is disposed on the downstream side of the front end member 37. In other words, the rear end member 38 is disposed downstream of the developing frame body in the insertion direction, and the front end member 37 is disposed upstream of the developing frame body 31 in the insertion direction.

In addition, as shown in Fig. 24, in the rear end member 38, the upper direction (in this embodiment substantially vertical direction) orthogonal to the attaching/detaching direction of the developing cartridge 4 (horizontal direction in this embodiment). ), the first upper guide rib 338g (corresponding to the other end of the guided portion or the first guided portion) protrudes, and in the downward direction, the first lower guide rib 338h (the other end of the guided portion or the second Corresponding to the guide part) protrudes. Here, as described above, when the developing cartridge 4 is not mounted on the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100, the rear end member 38 of the developing frame body 31 of the developing cartridge 4 The rotation about the rotation is regulated by the regulation member 340. Thus, in this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 100 has a regulation mechanism that controls or regulates the rotation of the developing frame body 31 with respect to the rear end member 38.

In addition, when inserting the developing cartridge 4 into the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100, first, the first upper guide rib 338g provided in the rear end member 38 is a device of the image forming apparatus 100 It engages with the upper guide 105 installed on the main body side. Further, the first lower guide rib 338h provided on the rear end member 38 is engaged with the lower guide 104 provided on the device body side of the image forming apparatus 100. Further, in this state, the developing cartridge 4 is pressed in the direction of arrow F in Fig. 26 to slide the first lower guide rib 338h relative to the lower guide 104. In addition, when the developing cartridge 4 is inserted to a predetermined position as it is, as shown in Fig. 27B, the raised portion 380b of the first lower guide rib 338h of the rear end member 38 is 1 It is mounted on the rear pressing member 106 installed at the rear of the lower guide 104. Further, the lifting portion 337b provided on the front end member 37 is mounted on the front pressing member 107 provided on the near side of the first lower guide 104.

Further, an abutted portion 338c provided on the rear end member 38 reaches and contacts the rear plate 98 of the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100. Accordingly, the developing cartridge 4 is positioned in the direction in which the developing cartridge 4 is inserted. A position where the bumping portion 338c and the rear plate 98 contact each other is a mounting position. Further, on the rear plate 98 provided in the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100, a regulation release portion 390 for pressing the regulation member 340 of the developing cartridge 4 is provided. In the state in which the developing cartridge 4 is mounted in the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100, when the regulating member 340 is pressed by the regulating release portion 390, the groove portion 338b of the rear end member 38 The engagement between the and the regulating member 340 is released.

Here, Fig. 27C is a diagram showing a state in which the developing cartridge 4 is positioned with respect to the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus 100. As shown in FIG. In addition, in conjunction with the operation of closing the front cover 110 in the image forming apparatus 100, the rear pressing member 106, the front pressing member 107, the body pressing spring 108, and the body pressing spring 109 The first lower guide 104 with) moves upward. In accordance with the operation, the rear positioning portion 380d (corresponding to the other end positioning portion) of the rear end member 38 is a bump portion 98a (the other end positioning portion) of the rear plate 98. Corresponds to (Fig. 29). In addition, the front positioning portion 337c of the front end member 37 (corresponding to the one end positioning portion) is a bump portion 99a of the front plate 99 (corresponding to the one end positioning portion). Contact with Accordingly, the developing cartridge 4 is positioned relative to the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100.

In addition, as shown in Fig. 29, the rear end member 38 is provided with a boss 338e (corresponding to a rotation stop at the other end) for controlling or regulating the rotation of the rear end member 38. . When the developing cartridge 4 is attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus 100, the boss 338e in the rear end member 38 is a rotation stop hole 98b in the rear plate 98. Fit in. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the rear end member 38 from rotating in the image forming apparatus 100.

Similarly, the front end member 37 is provided with a rotation stop 337d that controls or regulates the rotation of the front end member 37. When the developing cartridge 4 is attached to the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100, the rotation stop 337d (corresponding to the rotation stop at one end) of the front end member 37 is a first lower guide ( It fits with the main body rotation stop (1104) installed in 104). Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the front end member 37 from rotating in the image forming apparatus 100.

As described above, in the present embodiment, in a state in which the developing cartridge 4 is completely mounted on the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100, the rear end member 38 and the front end member 37 are provided with the image forming apparatus ( It is fixed with respect to the device body of 100). On the other hand, in the state in which the developing cartridge 4 is completely mounted on the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100, when the engagement between the groove portion 338b and the regulating member 340 is released, the developing frame body 31 is rearward. It becomes rotatable with respect to the end member 38. For this reason, the developing frame body 31 is rotatable in the image forming apparatus 100, and the developing roller 25 and the photosensitive drum 1 can be brought into contact with each other and spaced apart from each other.

On the other hand, when the developing cartridge 4 is being inserted into the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100, the rotation of the developing frame body 31 with respect to the rear end member 38 is regulated by the regulating member 340. You may. Accordingly, when the developing cartridge 4 is being inserted into the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100, the rotation of the developing frame body 31 is restricted. In addition, as described above, when the developing cartridge 4 is being inserted into the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100, the rear end member 38 is in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the developing cartridge 4 is inserted. It is positioned. Accordingly, rotation of the developing frame body 31 with respect to the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100 is suppressed, and contact between the developing roller 25 and the photosensitive drum 1 is suppressed. When the developing cartridge 4 is being inserted into the apparatus body of the image forming apparatus 100, the rattling sound of the developing cartridge 4 can be reduced, and the developing roller 25 and the photosensitive drum 1 It can prevent contact.

Further, in this embodiment, only the rotation of the rear end member 38 with respect to the developing frame body 31 is restricted by the regulating member 340. However, the configuration is not necessarily limited to this. For example, the rotation of the front end member 37 with respect to the developing frame body 31 may also be regulated by the regulating member 340.

In this embodiment, various guide ribs are configured to protrude in a direction orthogonal to the arrangement direction of the plurality of process cartridges, and the configuration for controlling or restricting rotation according to the present embodiment is projected in a direction orthogonal to the arrangement direction. It is placed in a position contained in the developing cartridge. In other words, since the configuration for controlling or regulating rotation is not configured to protrude in the arrangement direction, the arrangement design of the plurality of process cartridges is not impaired. Accordingly, in the in-line type image forming apparatus, the above-described rotation regulation can be realized while minimizing the spacing between adjacent process cartridges and avoiding the enlargement of the apparatus.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to embodiments, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. The scope of the claims below is to be interpreted broadly to include all modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

1: photosensitive drum 2: charging roller 3: scanner unit 4: developing cartridge 5: intermediate transfer unit 6: cleaning member 8: cleaning support member 9: drum cartridge 13: rear developing bearing 13b: spring support 14: transfer belt 17: cassette Reference Signs List 25 developing roller 27 cleaning frame body 35 developing blade (regulating member) 37 front end member 37h, 37k, 37m, 37n guided part 40 rear regulating member 41 regulating spring 50 torsion coil spring 54 feeding Roller 56: drive roller 57: driven roller 58: primary transfer roller 59: counter roller 60: regulating member 69: secondary transfer roller 74: fixing unit 76: conveying roller pair 100: image forming apparatus 104: lower guide 105: upper portion guide

Claims (28)

As a developing cartridge,
Developing roller;
A frame including a toner chamber for accommodating toner, a first end, and a second end opposite to the first end with respect to the axial direction of the developing roller, wherein a part of the developing roller is exposed to the outside of the frame. The frame rotatably supporting the roller;
A connecting member installed adjacent to the first end of the frame and operably connected to the developing roller;
A first support member attached to a first end of the frame and movable with respect to the frame; And
A second support member attached to the second end of the frame and movable relative to the frame and the first support member,
The first support member includes a protrusion, the second support member includes a protrusion,
The protrusion of the first support member is located above the first support member and protrudes away from the frame in the axial direction of the developing roller when the developing cartridge is oriented so that the developing roller is located on the toner chamber,
A developing cartridge, wherein the protrusion of the second supporting member is located above the second supporting member and protrudes upward when the developing cartridge is oriented so that the developing roller is located above the toner chamber.
The method of claim 1,
Further comprising a regulatory member movable between the regulated position and the non-regulated position,
The regulating member prevents movement of the first supporting member with respect to the frame when the regulating member is in a regulating position, and movement of the first supporting member with respect to the frame when the regulating member is in a non-regulated position Which allows, the development cartridge.
The method of claim 2,
The regulating member is movably supported by the frame,
The regulating member is (i) the developing cartridge is oriented so that the developing roller is positioned above the toner chamber, (ii) when the regulating member is in the regulating position, is engaged above the first support member,
Wherein the regulating member is disengaged from the first supporting member when the regulating member is in a non-regulated position.
The method of claim 2,
The developing cartridge further comprising a spring for urging the regulating member from the non-regulated position to the regulating position.
The method of claim 2,
The regulating member is a first regulating member,
The developing cartridge further includes a second regulating member movable between a regulated position and a non-regulated position,
The second regulating member prevents movement of the second supporting member with respect to the frame when the second regulating member is in a regulating position, and the second regulating member prevents the movement of the second supporting member with respect to the frame when the second regulating member is in a non-regulated position. A developing cartridge allowing movement of the second support member.
The method of claim 5,
The developing cartridge further comprising a spring for urging the second regulating member from an unregulated position to a regulating position.
The method of claim 5,
The second regulating member is movably supported by the second support member,
The second regulating member is (i) the developing cartridge is oriented so that the developing roller is positioned above the toner chamber, (ii) when the second regulating member is in the regulating position, is engaged with the lower side of the frame,
Wherein the second regulating member is disengaged from the frame when the second regulating member is in a non-regulated position.
The method of claim 5,
The second regulating member is rotatable between a regulated position and a non-regulated position.
The method of claim 2,
The developing cartridge, wherein the regulating member is movable in the axial direction of the developing roller.
The method of claim 1,
Further comprising a regulatory member movable between the regulated position and the non-regulated position,
The regulating member prevents movement of the second supporting member with respect to the frame when the regulating member is in a regulating position, and movement of the second supporting member with respect to the frame when the regulating member is in a non-regulated position Which allows, the development cartridge.
The method of claim 9,
The developing cartridge further comprising a spring for urging the regulating member from the non-regulated position to the regulating position.
The method of claim 9,
The regulating member is movably supported by the second support member,
The regulating member is (i) the developing cartridge is oriented so that the developing roller is positioned above the toner chamber, (ii) when the regulating member is in the regulating position, engages the lower side of the frame
Wherein the regulating member is disengaged from the frame when the regulating member is in a non-regulated position.
The method of claim 9,
Wherein the regulating member is rotatable between a regulated position and a non-regulated position.
The method of claim 1,
The first support member includes a guide portion positioned above the first support member and protruding upward when the developing cartridge is oriented so that the developing roller is positioned above the toner chamber.
The method of claim 1,
Wherein the first supporting member includes a guide portion located below the first supporting member and protruding downward when the developing cartridge is oriented so that the developing roller is located above the toner chamber.
The method of claim 1,
The first support member includes a first guide portion and a second guide portion,
When the first guide portion is positioned above the first support member and protrudes upward, the second guide portion is positioned below the first support member and the developing cartridge is oriented so that the developing roller is positioned above the toner chamber The development cartridge, projecting downwards,.
The method of claim 1,
The second support member includes a guide portion that is positioned above the second support member and protrudes upward when the developing cartridge is oriented so that the developing roller is positioned above the toner chamber.
The method of claim 1,
Wherein the second supporting member includes a guide portion located below the second supporting member and protruding downward when the developing cartridge is oriented so that the developing roller is located above the toner chamber.
The method of claim 1,
The second support member includes a first guide portion and a second guide portion,
When the developing cartridge is oriented so that the developing roller is positioned above the toner chamber, the first guide portion protrudes upward and the second guide portion protrudes downward.
The method of claim 1,
A developing cartridge, further comprising a toner supply roller contacting the developing roller and supplying toner to the developing roller.
The method of claim 1,
A developing cartridge further comprising a toner conveying member configured to convey toner from the toner chamber toward a toner supply roller.
The method of claim 1,
The first support member is rotatable with respect to the frame.
The method of claim 1,
The second support member is rotatable with respect to the frame.
The method of claim 1,
The developing cartridge, wherein the first support member and the second support member are rotatable about the same axis with respect to the frame.
The method of claim 1,
A developing cartridge, wherein a part of the surface of the developing roller is exposed to the outside of the developing cartridge.
The method of claim 1,
A developing cartridge, wherein the protruding portion of the first supporting member and the protruding portion of the second supporting member are positioned by the main assembly of the image forming apparatus when the developing cartridge is mounted on the main assembly of the image forming apparatus.
A main assembly of an image forming apparatus including a photosensitive drum,
An image forming apparatus comprising a developing cartridge according to claim 1, comprising:
When the developing cartridge is mounted on the main assembly, (i) the protrusion of the first support member and the protrusion of the second support member are positioned by the main assembly, and (ii) the frame includes the developing roller The image forming apparatus, wherein the image forming apparatus is movably supported by the first support member and the second support member so as to be movable toward or away from the photosensitive drum.
The method of claim 27,
The photosensitive drum is a part of a drum cartridge detachable from the main assembly.

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