US20170026531A1 - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents
Image forming apparatus Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20170026531A1 US20170026531A1 US14/808,073 US201514808073A US2017026531A1 US 20170026531 A1 US20170026531 A1 US 20170026531A1 US 201514808073 A US201514808073 A US 201514808073A US 2017026531 A1 US2017026531 A1 US 2017026531A1
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- section
- hook
- sensor
- base
- limiting section
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N1/00—Scanning, transmission or reproduction of documents or the like, e.g. facsimile transmission; Details thereof
- H04N1/00519—Constructional details not otherwise provided for, e.g. housings, covers
- H04N1/00549—Counter-measures for mechanical vibration not otherwise provided for
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N1/00—Scanning, transmission or reproduction of documents or the like, e.g. facsimile transmission; Details thereof
- H04N1/00519—Constructional details not otherwise provided for, e.g. housings, covers
- H04N1/00557—Connection or assembly of components or elements
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N1/00—Scanning, transmission or reproduction of documents or the like, e.g. facsimile transmission; Details thereof
- H04N1/00519—Constructional details not otherwise provided for, e.g. housings, covers
- H04N1/00559—Mounting or support of components or elements
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N1/00—Scanning, transmission or reproduction of documents or the like, e.g. facsimile transmission; Details thereof
- H04N1/00681—Detecting the presence, position or size of a sheet or correcting its position before scanning
- H04N1/00684—Object of the detection
- H04N1/00702—Position
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N1/00—Scanning, transmission or reproduction of documents or the like, e.g. facsimile transmission; Details thereof
- H04N1/00681—Detecting the presence, position or size of a sheet or correcting its position before scanning
- H04N1/00729—Detection means
- H04N1/00734—Optical detectors
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N1/00—Scanning, transmission or reproduction of documents or the like, e.g. facsimile transmission; Details thereof
- H04N1/00681—Detecting the presence, position or size of a sheet or correcting its position before scanning
- H04N1/00763—Action taken as a result of detection
- H04N1/00774—Adjusting or controlling
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N1/00—Scanning, transmission or reproduction of documents or the like, e.g. facsimile transmission; Details thereof
- H04N1/00795—Reading arrangements
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N2201/00—Indexing scheme relating to scanning, transmission or reproduction of documents or the like, and to details thereof
- H04N2201/0077—Types of the still picture apparatus
- H04N2201/0082—Image hardcopy reproducer
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N2201/00—Indexing scheme relating to scanning, transmission or reproduction of documents or the like, and to details thereof
- H04N2201/0077—Types of the still picture apparatus
- H04N2201/0094—Multifunctional device, i.e. a device capable of all of reading, reproducing, copying, facsimile transception, file transception
Definitions
- Embodiments described herein relate to an image forming apparatus.
- the sensor includes a hook having a claw section.
- a clamping section for clamping the claw section is arranged in a frame.
- the sensor is fixed in the frame through the clamping of the claw section of the hook with the clamping section.
- the image forming apparatus is vibrated when being conveyed.
- the claw section of the hook may deviate from the clamping section when the vibration is violent. If the claw section of the hook deviates from the clamping section, then the internal sensor of the image forming apparatus may fall off.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram exemplifying the structure of an image forming apparatus according to embodiment 1;
- FIG. 2 is a front view of the sensor unit shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is an oblique view of the sensor and the base shown in FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 4 is an oblique view of the sensor and the base shown in FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 5 is a sectional view of the sensor and the base shown in FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 6 is a sectional view of the sensor and the base shown in FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 7 is a sectional view of the sensor and the base shown in FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 8 is an oblique view of a sensor and a base according to embodiment 2;
- FIG. 9 is an oblique view exemplifying a variation of a base according to embodiment 2.
- FIG. 10 is an oblique view illustrating a sensor and a base according to embodiment 3.
- FIG. 11 is an oblique view illustrating a sensor and a base according to embodiment 4.
- an image forming apparatus comprises a sensor, a base, a clamping section and a limiting section.
- the sensor includes a hook having a claw section.
- the sensor is mounted on the base.
- the clamping section and the limiting section are arranged on the base.
- the claw section is clamped with the clamping section.
- the limiting section is elastically deformable when the sensor is mounted on the base. When the claw section is clamped with the clamping section, the limiting section faces the hook from the opposite side of the clamping section, thereby limiting the position of the hook.
- FIG. 1 exemplifies the structure of an image forming apparatus 1 according to embodiment 1.
- the image forming apparatus 1 is an electrophotographic type Multi-Function Peripheral (MFP).
- MFP Multi-Function Peripheral
- the image forming apparatus 1 comprises a frame 2 , a scanner unit 3 , a printer unit 4 and a control unit 5 .
- the frame (housing, casing) 2 constitutes the frame of the image forming apparatus 1 .
- the frame 2 is formed into, for example, a box shape.
- the frame 2 accommodates the scanner unit 3 and the printer unit 4 .
- the scanner unit 3 reads the image information of an original as digital data.
- the printer unit 4 forms an image on a sheet according to image data.
- the image forming apparatus 1 forms an image with a recording agent which is, for example, toner.
- the control unit 5 controls the whole image forming apparatus 1 . That is, the control unit 5 controls the scanner unit 3 and the printer unit 4 .
- the printer unit 4 includes an intermediate transfer section 11 , a paper feeding section 12 , a conveyance path 13 , a resist section 14 , a secondary transfer section 15 , a fixing section 16 and a paper discharging section 17 .
- the intermediate transfer section (primary transfer section) 11 comprises an intermediate transfer belt 21 , a plurality of rollers 22 a , 22 b , 22 c and 22 d and a plurality of image forming portions 23 Y, 23 M, 23 C and 23 K.
- the intermediate transfer belt 21 is formed into a ring shape.
- the plurality of rollers 22 a , 22 b , 22 c and 22 d support the intermediate transfer belt 21 so that the intermediate transfer belt 21 can travel circularly in the direction indicated by an arrow A shown in FIG. 1 .
- the plurality of image forming portions (processing units) 23 Y, 23 M, 23 C and 23 K include a yellow image forming portion 23 Y, a magenta image forming portion 23 M, a cyan image forming portion 23 C and a black image forming portion 23 K.
- the image forming portions 23 Y, 23 M, 23 C and 23 K each include a photoconductive drum 25 , a charging portion 26 , an exposure portion 27 , a developing portion 28 and a transfer roller 29 .
- the image forming portions 23 Y, 23 M, 23 C and 23 K are structurally identical except for the difference in the color of recording agent.
- the charging portion (charger) 26 charges the surface of the photoconductive drum 25 .
- the exposure portion (exposure scanning head) 27 exposes the surface of the photoconductive drum 25 to form an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photoconductive drum 25 based on image data.
- the developing portion 28 capable of accommodating toners of different colors feeds recording agent to the surface of the photoconductive drum 25 so that the latent image on the photoconductive drum 25 is affixed with the recording agent.
- the transfer roller 29 faces the intermediate transfer belt 21 from the side opposite of the photoconductive drum 25 to transfer (primarily transfer) a recording agent from the surface of the photoconductive drum 25 to the intermediate transfer belt 21 .
- the paper feeding section 12 comprises a paper cassette 12 a and a pickup roller 12 b .
- the paper cassette 12 a arranged in the frame 2 can be drawn out from the frame 2 .
- the paper cassette 12 a is capable of accommodating a sheet P to be printed with an image.
- the pickup roller 12 b is arranged in the paper cassette 12 a .
- the pickup roller 12 b conveys the sheet P accommodated in the paper cassette 12 a towards the conveyance path 13 .
- the conveyance path 13 passes the resist section 14 , the secondary transfer section 15 and the fixing section 16 and ends with the paper discharging section 17 .
- the paper P is conveyed in the conveyance path 13 .
- the conveyance path 13 includes a reverse conveyance path 13 a which returns the paper P passing the fixing section 16 to the resist section 14 .
- the two sides of the paper P are inverted when the paper P passes the reverse conveyance path 13 a so as to form an image on the back of the paper P.
- the resist section (resist roller pair) 14 is positioned between the paper feeding section 12 and the secondary transfer section 15 .
- the resist section 14 temporarily limits the paper P. Then, the paper P is paused.
- the resist section 14 conveys the paper P towards the secondary transfer section 15 matching in timing with the conveyance of the recording agent transferred on the intermediate transfer belt 21 .
- the secondary transfer section 15 comprises a transfer roller 15 a which is connected with the outer side of the intermediate transfer belt 21 .
- the belt roller 22 d supporting the intermediate transfer belt 21 constitutes a structural element of the secondary transfer section 15 .
- the belt roller 22 d is opposite to the transfer roller 15 a across the intermediate transfer belt 21 .
- the paper P is clamped between the transfer roller 15 a and the belt roller 22 d together with the intermediate transfer belt 21 . In this way, the recording agent on the intermediate transfer belt 21 is transferred (secondarily transferred) onto the surface of the paper P.
- the paper P passing the secondary transfer section 15 is sent to the fixing section 16 .
- the fixing section 16 comprises a heat roller 16 a and a press roller 16 b .
- the temperature of the heat roller 16 a is controlled at a fixation temperature (printing temperature) suitable for the fixation of the recording agent.
- the press roller 16 b faces the paper P from the opposite side of the heat roller 16 a .
- the paper P on which the recording agent is transferred is clamped by the heat roller 16 a and the press roller 16 b so as to be heated and pressurized between the heat roller 16 a and the press roller 16 b . Then, the recording agent transferred on the paper P is fixed on the paper P.
- the paper discharging section 17 discharges the paper P passing the fixing section 16 .
- the sensor unit 31 is arranged on the conveyance path 13 .
- the sensor unit 31 is located between the resist section 14 and the secondary transfer section 15 .
- the sensor unit 31 is not limited to be installed at a specific position.
- the sensor unit 31 may also be arranged between the secondary transfer section 15 and the fixing section 16 or between the fixing section 16 and the paper discharging section 17 .
- the sensor unit 31 may also be arranged on the reverse conveyance path 13 a.
- the sensor unit 31 detects the position of the paper P in the conveyance path 13 . For example, the sensor unit 31 detects the entrance of the paper P into a specific area. Further, the sensor unit 31 detects the departure of the paper P from the specific area.
- FIG. 2 illustrates the sensor unit 31 specifically. As shown in FIG. 2 , the sensor unit 31 comprises a sensor 41 and a working part 42 .
- the sensor 41 is described first.
- FIG. 3 illustrates the sensor 41 and a base 43 .
- the sensor 41 is an optical sensor.
- the sensor 41 comprises a light emitting unit 51 , a light receiving unit 52 , a connector 53 and a retainer unit 54 .
- the light emitting unit 51 comprises a light emitting component 51 a .
- the light emitting unit 51 emits light towards the light receiving unit 52 .
- the light receiving unit 52 comprises a light receiving component 52 a .
- the light receiving unit 52 receives the light emitted from the light emitting unit 51 .
- the sensor 41 carries out a detection action when the light emitted from the light emitting unit 51 towards the light receiving unit 52 is shielded.
- the ‘detection action’ refers to the output of a specific signal to the outside. Further, the light emitting unit 51 and the light receiving unit 52 may be reverse to each other in position.
- the connector 53 is electrically connected with the control unit 5 of the image forming apparatus 1 via a cable.
- the connector 53 outputs the detection result of the sensor 41 to the control unit 5 .
- the retainer unit 54 retains the light emitting unit 51 , the light receiving unit 52 and the connector 53 as a whole.
- the retainer unit 54 is made from a synthetic resin (e.g. plastic). The retainer unit 54 is described in detail later.
- the working part 42 includes a pivot 56 , a first part 57 and a second part 58 .
- the pivot 56 located between the first. part 57 and the second part 58 can be rotationally supported in the frame 2 .
- the working part 42 can be rotated in the range between a first gesture ((a) shown in FIG. 2 ) and a second gesture ((b) shown in FIG. 2 ) by taking the pivot 56 as the center.
- An elastic component 59 is propped against the working part 42 .
- the elastic component 59 is a spring.
- the working part 42 applies a force towards the first gesture via the elastic component 59 .
- the first part 57 protrudes towards the conveyance path 13 in the first gesture.
- the paper P moving in the conveyance path 13 is connected with the first part 57 .
- the working part 42 rotates from the first gesture to the second gesture.
- the second part 58 is integrated with the first part 57 .
- the second part 58 departs from the space between the light emitting unit 51 and the light receiving unit 52 of the sensor 41 in the first gesture.
- the second part 58 enters the space between the light emitting unit 51 and the light receiving unit 52 of the sensor 41 in the second gesture so as to shield, in the second gesture, the light emitted from the light emitting unit 51 to the light receiving unit 52 .
- the sensor 41 shields the light by means of the second part 58 , thereby carrying out a detection action. That is, the sensor 41 shields the light emitted from the light emitting unit 51 towards the light receiving unit 52 , thereby detecting the position of the paper P.
- the sensor 41 outputs the detection result of the sensor 41 to the control unit 5 .
- the control unit 5 controls the paper feeding section 12 , the resist section 14 , the secondary transfer section 15 and the fixing section 16 according to the detection result of the sensor 41 .
- the X direction, Y direction and Z direction are defined here.
- the X direction and the Y direction are directions along the holding side 70 (refer to FIG. 4 ) of the under-mentioned base 43 .
- the X direction is the length direction of the sensor 41 .
- the X direction is the direction in which the light emitting unit 51 and the light receiving unit 52 are arranged.
- the Y direction is a direction intersecting with (e.g. nearly orthogonal to) the X direction.
- the Y direction is the width direction of the sensor 41 .
- the Z direction is a direction intersecting with (e.g. nearly orthogonal to) the X direction and the Y direction.
- the Z direction is the direction in which the sensor 41 is mounted on the base 43 .
- the Z direction is the direction from which the first hook 65 of the sensor 41 is inserted.
- FIG. 4 illustrates the sensor 41 and the base 43 .
- the retainer unit 54 of the sensor 41 includes a first end section 61 , a second end section 62 , a first insertion section 63 , a second insertion section 64 , a first hook 65 , a second hook 66 and a third hook 67 .
- the first end section 61 and the second end section 62 are the two ends of the retainer unit 54 in the X direction.
- the second end section 62 is located on the opposite side of the first end section 61 and connected with the connector 53 .
- the first insertion section 63 and the second insertion section 64 are arranged on the first end section 61 of the retainer unit 54 .
- the first insertion section 63 and the second insertion section 64 are separately located on the two ends of the retainer unit 54 in the Y direction.
- the first insertion section 63 and the second insertion section 64 protrude towards the Z direction.
- the first insertion section 63 and the second insertion section 64 function as guiders for guiding the installation of the sensor 41 .
- the first hook 65 is arranged on the first end section of the retainer unit 54 , located between the first insertion section 63 and the second insertion section 64 and protruded towards the Z direction.
- the first hook 65 is elastically deformable.
- the first hook 65 is elastically deformable in the X direction and a direction opposite to the X direction.
- the first hook 65 has a claw section 65 a which is protruded from the first hook 65 towards the X direction.
- the second hook 66 and the third hook 67 are arranged on the second end section 62 of the retainer unit 54 .
- the second hook 66 and the third hook 67 are separately located on the two ends of the retainer unit 54 in the Y direction.
- the second hook 66 and the third hook 67 are protruded towards the Z direction.
- the second hook 66 has a claw section 66 a .
- the third hook 67 has a claw section 67 a .
- the claw section 66 a of the second hook 66 and the claw section 67 a of the third hook 67 extend towards the outside of the retainer unit 54 along the Y direction. That is, the claw section 66 a of the second hook 66 and the claw section 67 a of the third hook 67 extend towards opposite directions.
- the base 43 is a part on which the sensor 41 is installed.
- the base 43 is arranged inside the frame 2 .
- the base 43 is a part of a synthetic resin component (molded component) inside the frame 2 .
- the base 43 is a part of the components forming the conveyance path 13 . Further, the base 43 may be integrated with the frame 2 .
- the base 43 has a holding side 70 , a first opening section 71 , a first clamping section 72 , a first limiting section 73 , a second and a third opening section 74 and 75 , a second and a third clamping section 76 and 77 and a second and a third limiting section 78 and 79 .
- the sensor 41 is held on the holding side 70 along the Z direction.
- the ‘side’ refers to ‘surface’. That is, the holding side 70 may be accidented, not limited to be a flat surface.
- the first opening section 71 is opened on the holding side 70 .
- the first opening section 71 penetrates through the base 43 in the Z direction.
- the first insertion section 63 , the second insertion section 64 and the first hook 65 of the sensor 41 are inserted into the first opening section 71 along the Z direction.
- the inner surface of the first opening section 71 faces the first insertion section 63 and the second insertion section 64 of the sensor 41 so as to limit the position of the sensor 41 in the Y direction.
- the first clamping section 72 arranged on one end of the first opening section 71 in the X direction is an example of a ‘clamping section’.
- the first clamping section 72 extends from an inner surface of the first opening section 71 towards the inside of the first opening section 71 .
- the first clamping section 72 is formed into a flat plate.
- FIG. 5 shows the sections of the sensor 41 and the base 43 .
- the claw section 65 a of the first hook 65 is clamped with the first clamping section 72 .
- the claw section 65 a of the first hook 65 is mounted into the first clamping section 72 from the opposite side of the holding side 70 . In this way, the first end section 61 of the retainer unit 54 of the sensor 41 is fixed on the base 43 .
- the first limiting section (support section) 73 is arranged on the end of the first opening section 71 in the direction opposite to the X direction.
- the first limiting section 73 is an example of a ‘limiting section’.
- the first limiting section 73 extends from an inner surface of the first opening section 71 towards the inside of the first opening section 71 .
- the first limiting section 73 extends in the X direction.
- the first limiting section 73 is formed into a plate linearly extending in the X direction.
- the length L 1 (refer to FIG. 5 ) of the first limiting section 73 in the X direction is greater than the width W 1 (refer to FIG. 4 ) of the first limiting section 73 in the Y direction.
- the first limiting section 73 is greatly elastically deformable in the Z direction.
- the first limiting section 73 has an end part 81 and an extending part 82 .
- the end part 81 is the end of the first limiting section 73 in the X direction.
- the end part 81 is referred to as a free end of a cantilever.
- the extending part 82 extends from the end part 81 towards the direction opposite to the X direction.
- the extending part 82 extending linearly from the end part 81 is connected with the base 43 so that the first limiting section 73 is supported on the base 43 . That is, the first limiting section 73 is formed as a cantilever.
- the first limiting section 73 faces the first hook 65 from the opposite side of the first clamping section 72 when the claw section 65 a is clamped with the first clamping section 72 .
- the end part 81 of the first limiting section 73 faces the first hook 65 in the X direction so that the first limiting section 73 limits the position of the first hook 65 in the X direction.
- the first limiting section 73 limits the movement of the first hook 65 away from the first clamping section 72 .
- the first limiting section 73 limits the first hook 65 at the position where the claw section 65 a is clamped with the first clamping section 72 (that is, the position where the claw section 65 a is not separated from the first clamping section 72 ).
- FIG. 6 shows the sections of the sensor 41 and the base 43 .
- the width A of the first hook 65 having the claw section 65 a in the X direction is 2.1 mm-4.5 mm.
- the width E of the first hook 65 not having the claw section 65 a in the X direction is 0.6 mm-3.0 mm.
- the gap between the first clamping section 72 and the first limiting section 73 in the X direction is set to be C.
- A>C>E As the first hook 65 is clamped with the first clamping section 72 , the following relational expression should be met: A>C>E.
- the gap C between the first clamping section 72 and the first limiting section 73 in the X direction is 0.6 mm-4.5 mm.
- the thickness B of the claw section 65 a in the Z direction is 1.8 mm-2.3 mm.
- the gap between the first clamping section 72 and the first limiting section 73 in the Z direction is set to be D.
- the following relational expression should be met: B>D.
- the gap D between the first clamping section 72 and the first limiting section 73 in the Z direction is below 2.3 mm.
- the second and the third opening section 74 and 75 are openings on the holding side 70 .
- the second and the third opening section 74 and 75 penetrate through the base 43 in the Z direction.
- the second hook 66 of the sensor 41 is inserted into the second opening section 74 along the Z direction.
- the third hook 67 of the sensor 41 is inserted into the third opening section 75 along the Z direction.
- the second clamping section 76 is arranged on the base 43 .
- the claw section 66 a of the second hook 66 is clamped with the second clamping section 76 .
- the claw section 66 a of the second hook 66 is mounted into the second clamping section 76 from the opposite side of the holding side 70 .
- the third clamping section 77 is arranged on the base 43 .
- the claw section 67 a of the third hook 67 is clamped with the third clamping section 77 .
- the claw section 67 a of the third hook 67 is mounted into the third clamping section 77 from the opposite side of the holding side 70 . In this way, the second end section 62 of the retainer unit 54 of the sensor 41 is fixed on the base 43 .
- the second limiting section 78 faces the second hook 66 from the opposite side of the second clamping section 76 when the claw section 66 a of the second hook 66 is clamped with the second clamping section 76 .
- the second limiting section 78 limits the movement of the second hook 66 away from the second clamping section 76 .
- the second limiting section 78 includes an inclined side 78 a which is inclined towards a direction departing from the second hook 66 as the inclined side 78 a advances in the X direction.
- the limitation of the second limiting section 78 to the second hook 66 is released when the second hook 66 is moved towards the X direction. In this way, the claw section 66 a of the second hook 66 is deviated from the second clamping section 76 .
- the third limiting section 79 faces the third hook 67 from the opposite side of the third clamping section 77 when the claw section 67 a of the third hook 67 is clamped with the third clamping section 77 .
- the third limiting section 79 limits the movement of the third hook 67 away from the third clamping section 77 .
- the third limiting section 79 includes an inclined side 79 a which is inclined towards a direction departing from the third hook 67 as the inclined side 79 a advances in the X direction.
- the limitation of the third limiting section 79 to the third hook 67 is released when the third hook 67 is moved towards the X direction. In this way, the claw section 67 a of the third hook 67 is deviated from the third clamping section 77 .
- FIG. 7 illustrates a method for mounting the sensor 41 on the base 43 .
- the second hook 66 and the third hook 67 of the sensor 41 are inserted into the second opening section 74 and the third opening section 75 of the base 43 so that the second hook 66 and the third hook 67 are clamped with the second clamping section 76 and the third clamping section 77 .
- the positions of the second hook 66 and the third hook 67 are limited by the second limiting section 78 and the third limiting section 79 .
- the first hook 65 of the sensor 41 is inserted into the first opening section 71 of the base 43 .
- the first hook 65 is inserted between the first clamping section 72 and the first limiting section 73 .
- the first hook 65 is elastically deformed in a direction departing from the first clamping section 72 when the claw section 65 a of the first hook 65 passes the first clamping section 72 .
- the first limiting section 73 is elastically deformed in the direction from which the first hook 65 is inserted.
- the claw section 65 a of the first hook 65 is clamped with the first clamping section 72 .
- the first hook 65 is recovered to a state in which the first hook 65 is not elastically deformed.
- the first limiting section 73 is recovered to a state in which the first limiting section 73 is not elastically deformed. In this way, the first limiting section 73 faces the first hook 65 from the opposite side of the first clamping section 72 to limit the position of the first hook 65 .
- the sensor 41 in the image forming apparatus 1 is prevented from falling off.
- the internal sensor 41 it is also considered to mount another component to prevent the deviation of the sensor 41 .
- the number of the parts of the image forming apparatus 1 is increased, and the procedures of assembling the image forming apparatus 1 are also increased.
- the hook is arranged at a position between the light emitting unit 51 and the light receiving unit 52 of the sensor 41 .
- the hook is partially located at a position between the light emitting unit 51 and the light receiving unit 52 .
- the image forming apparatus 1 of the embodiment comprises the sensor 41 , the base 43 , the first clamping section 72 and the first limiting section 73 .
- the sensor 41 includes the first hook 65 having the claw section 65 a .
- the sensor 41 is mounted on the base 43 .
- the first clamping section 72 and the first limiting section 73 are arranged on the base 43 .
- the claw section 65 a of the first hook 65 is clamped with the first clamping section 72 .
- the first limiting section 73 is elastically deformable when the sensor 41 is mounted on the base 43 .
- the first limiting section 73 faces the first hook 65 from the opposite side of the first clamping section 72 to limit the position of the first hook 65 .
- the position of the first hook 65 is limited by the first limiting section 73 . Then, even if the image forming apparatus 1 is vibrated relatively violently, it is difficult for the claw section 65 a of the first hook 65 to deviate from the first clamping section 72 . Thus, the sensor 41 in the image forming apparatus 1 is prevented from falling off. Further, according to the structure of the embodiment, no other parts are needed. It is impossible that the detection allowance of the sensor 41 is reduced. Further, it is not needed to change the shape of the sensor 41 .
- the first limiting section 73 is elastically deformed in the direction from which the first hook 65 is inserted.
- the claw section 65 a of the first hook 65 can be easily clamped with the first clamping section 72 .
- the assembly operation of the image forming apparatus 1 is facilitated.
- the first limiting section 73 is elastically deformable, then the first limiting section 73 can be protruded to be close to the first hook 65 , thus reducing the possibility of the deviation of the claw section 65 a of the first hook 65 from the first clamping section 72 .
- the first limiting section 73 extends linearly in the direction opposite to the direction in which the first limiting section 73 faces the first hook 65 .
- the first limiting section 73 can be deformed elastically in the Z direction. Further, when applied with a force from the direction opposite to the X direction, the first limiting section 73 is extended. Thus, even if applied with a relatively large force, the first limiting section 73 bears the force without being curved. Consequentially, the first limiting section 73 is capable of firmly limiting the position of the first hook 65 in the X direction. That is, according to the foregoing structure, the assembly of the image forming apparatus 1 is facilitated and the possibility that the sensor 41 falls off is reduced.
- a working part 42 is also configured.
- the working part 42 functions by approaching the paper P conveyed in the conveyance path 13 .
- the sensor 41 comprises the light emitting unit 51 and the light receiving unit 52 for receiving the light from the light emitting unit 51 .
- the sensor 41 carries out a detection action by causing a part of the working part 42 to enter the space between the light emitting unit 51 and the light receiving unit 52 .
- the sensor 41 configured to detect the position of paper P can be prevented from falling off.
- the first limiting section 73 extends along the direction in which the light emitting unit 51 and the light receiving unit 52 are arranged.
- the direction in which the light emitting unit 51 and the light receiving unit 52 are arranged is likely to be the length of the sensor 41 . That is, in the embodiment, the first limiting section 73 is configured along the direction in which the light emitting unit 51 and the light receiving unit 52 are arranged.
- the base 43 is not large even if the first limiting section 73 is long, which is beneficial to the miniaturization of the sensor unit 31 .
- the first limiting section 73 is L-shaped, which is different from that of embodiment 1.
- the other components of embodiment 2 are structurally identical to those of embodiment 1. Thus, the components of embodiment 2 identical to those of embodiment 1 are not described here.
- FIG. 8 shows the sensor 41 and the base 43 of embodiment 2.
- the first limiting section 73 is an L-shaped. Described in detail, the first limiting section 73 has an end part 81 , a first part 82 and a second part 83 .
- the end part 81 faces the first hook 65 in the X direction.
- the first part 82 extends linearly from the end part 81 in the direction opposite to the X direction.
- the first part 82 is equivalent to the extending part 82 of embodiment 1.
- the second part 83 extends from the first part 82 in a direction intersecting with the first part 82 .
- the second part 83 extends towards a direction substantially orthogonal to the first part 82 .
- the second part 83 extends linearly from the first part 82 .
- the second part 83 is connected with the base 43 so as to be supported on the base 43 .
- the second part 83 is elastically deformable in the direction from which the first part 82 departs from the first hook 65 .
- the width W 2 of the second part 83 in the X direction is smaller than the width W 1 of the first part 82 in the Y direction.
- the second part 83 is elastically deformable in the direction from which the first part 82 departs from the first hook 65 .
- the second part 83 has a thick wall portion 91 the thickness of which in the Z direction is greater than that of the first part 82 in the Z direction.
- the thick wall portion 91 is arranged on the end of the second part 83 connected with the base 43 , thereby increasing the rigidity of the connection part 92 of the second part 83 and the base 43 .
- the first opening section 71 is corresponding in shape to the first limiting section 73 .
- the first limiting section 73 is accommodated in the first opening section 71 .
- the second part 83 of the first limiting section 73 includes an exposed portion 93 which is not overlapped with the sensor 41 in the direction from which the sensor 41 is mounted on the base 43 (the Z direction).
- a slit S into which the front end of a tool can be inserted is formed between the exposed portion 93 of the second part 83 and the internal surfaces of the first opening section 71 .
- the tool is a screw driver D 1 .
- the tool is not limited to be a screw driver D 1 .
- the front end of the screw driver D 1 is inserted into the slit S between the second part 83 of the first limiting section 73 and the internal surface of the first opening section 71 . Then, the screw driver D 1 is rotated.
- the second part 83 of the first limiting section 73 is elastically deformed in a direction departing from the first clamping section 72 so that the first part 82 of the first limiting section 73 is moved in a direction departing from the first hook 65 .
- the first hook 65 is moved to a position where the claw section 65 a is deviated from the first clamping section 72 . In this way, the first hook 65 is deviated from the first clamping section 72 .
- the operator removes the first hook 65 from the first opening section 71 .
- the whole sensor 41 is moved towards the X direction. Then, the limitation of the second limiting section 78 and the third limiting section 79 to the second hook 66 and the third hook 67 is released. Consequentially, the second hook 66 and the third hook 67 are deviated from the second clamping section 76 and the third clamping section 77 . Then, the sensor 41 is removed from the base 43 .
- the first limiting section 73 has a first part 82 extending in the direction opposite to the direction in which the first limiting section 73 faces the first hook 65 and a second part 83 extending in a direction intersecting with the first part 82 .
- the second part 83 is elastically deformable in the direction the first part 82 departs from the first hook 65 .
- the limitation of the first limiting section 73 to the first hook 65 is released through the elastic deformation of the second part 83 so that the claw section 65 a of the first hook 65 is deviated from the first clamping section 72 .
- the sensor 41 can be easily removed from the base 43 . If the sensor 41 can be easily removed from the base 43 , then the sensor 41 can be maintained or replaced easily.
- the base 43 has a first opening section 71 for accommodating the first limiting section 73 .
- a slit S is formed between the second part 83 of the first limiting section 73 and the internal surface of the first opening section 71 .
- the second part 83 can be elastically deformed easily by inserting a tool into the slit S between the second part 83 of the first limiting section 73 and the internal surface of the first opening section 71 .
- the sensor 41 can be removed more easily.
- FIG. 9 exemplifies a variation of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment.
- the base 43 may further comprise guiders 95 .
- the guiders 95 are arranged on two sides of the slit S. That is, the guiders 95 are arranged on the second part 83 of the first limiting section 73 and the holding side 70 .
- the guider 95 is capable of guiding a tool to the slit S between the second part 83 of the first limiting section 73 and the internal surface of the first opening section 71 .
- a tool can be inserted into the slit S between the second part 83 of the first limiting section 73 and the internal surface of the first opening section 71 more easily.
- the sensor 41 can be removed more easily.
- the second part 83 of the first limiting section 73 has a groove, which is different from that of embodiment 2.
- the other components of embodiment 3 are structurally identical to those of embodiment 2. Thus, the components of embodiment 3 identical to those of embodiment 1 and embodiment 2 are not described here.
- FIG. 10 shows the sensor 41 and the base 43 of embodiment 3.
- the first limiting section 73 has a first side 73 a and a second side 73 b .
- the first side 73 a faces the sensor 41 .
- the second side 73 b is located at the opposite side of the first side 73 a.
- the first limiting section 73 has a groove 101 .
- the groove 101 is arranged on the first side 73 a of the first limiting section 73 .
- the groove 101 is arranged on the exposed portion 93 of the second part 83 of the first limiting section 73 .
- the groove 101 may also be arranged on the second side 73 b of the first limiting section 73 .
- the groove 101 is located nearby the connection part 92 of the second part 83 and the base 43 .
- the groove 101 is closer to the connection part 92 than the first part 82 .
- the front end of a tool can be inserted into the groove 101 .
- the groove 101 is cruciform.
- the tool is a cross screwdriver D 2 .
- the tool is not limited to a cross screwdriver D 2 .
- the groove 101 is not limited to be cruciform.
- the front end of the cross screwdriver D 2 is inserted into the groove 101 on the second part 83 of the first limiting section 73 .
- the cross screwdriver D 2 is rotated so that the second part 83 of the first limiting section 73 is elastically deformed in a direction departing from the first clamping section 72 .
- the first part 82 of the first limiting section 73 is moved in a direction departing from the first hook 65 .
- the first hook 65 is moved to a position where the claw section 65 a is deviated from the first clamping section 72 so that the first hook 65 is deviated from the first clamping section 72 .
- the removal of the sensor 41 is facilitated, like in embodiment 2.
- the groove 101 is arranged at a position where the groove 101 is not overlapped with the sensor 41 in the direction from which the sensor 41 is mounted on the base 43 .
- the first limiting section 73 is different from that of embodiment 3 in having a protruded point.
- the other components of embodiment 4 are structurally identical to those of embodiment 3. Thus, the components of embodiment 4 identical to those of embodiment 1 to embodiment 3 are not described here.
- FIG. 11 shows the sensor 41 and the base 43 of embodiment 4.
- the first limiting section 73 has a protrusion 105 .
- the protrusion 105 is arranged on the second side 73 b of the first limiting section 73 .
- the protrusion 105 is arranged at a position where the protrusion 105 is overlapped with the sensor 41 in the direction from which the sensor 41 is mounted on the base 43 (the Z direction).
- the protrusion 105 is arranged on the connection part 106 of the first part 82 and the second part 83 . If the protrusion 105 is arranged at the position away from the connection part 92 of the second part 83 and the base 43 , then the second part 83 can be elastically deformed when applied with a relatively small force.
- the protrusion 105 is arranged on the first side 73 a of the first limiting section 73 .
- the protrusion 105 is arranged on the exposed portion 93 of the second part 83 of the first limiting section 73 .
- the operator touches the protrusion 105 with fingers and presses the protrusion 105 towards a direction departing from the first clamping section 72 .
- the second part 83 of the first limiting section 73 is elastically deformed in the direction departing from the first clamping section 72 .
- the first part 82 of the first limiting section 73 is moved away from the first hook 65 .
- the first hook 65 is moved to a position where the claw section 65 a is deviated from the first clamping section 72 so that the first hook 65 is deviated from the first clamping section 72 .
- the removal of the sensor 41 is facilitated, like in embodiment 2.
- the protrusion 105 is arranged on the second side 73 b of the first limiting section 73 . According to this structure, the sensor 41 can be easily removed even if the operator can only touch the back of the sensor 41 .
- an image forming apparatus comprises a sensor, a base, a clamping section and a limiting section.
- the sensor includes a hook having a claw section.
- the sensor is held on the base.
- the clamping unit and the limiting unit are arranged on the base.
- the claw section is clamped with the clamping section.
- the limiting section is elastically deformable when the sensor is mounted on the base.
- the limiting section faces the hook from the opposite side of the clamping section, thereby limiting the position of the hook.
- the sensor 41 in the image forming apparatus 1 is prevented from falling off.
- the image forming apparatuses 1 of the foregoing embodiments 1-4 have a decoloration function of decolorizing the color of the image formed on paper P.
- the ‘decoloration’ mentioned herein refers to decolorizing an image formed in a color different from the visible fundamental color of paper (including achromatic colors such as white and black in addition to chromatic colors).
- the image forming apparatus 1 controls the temperature of the fixing section 16 at a decoloration temperature so as to decolorize the image on the paper P passing the fixing section 16 .
- the image forming apparatus 1 is an example of a ‘decolorization apparatus’.
- the structures of embodiments 1-4 e.g. the structures of the sensor 41 and the base 43
- the ‘image forming apparatus’ and the ‘decolorization apparatus’ are both herein referred to as ‘image processing apparatus’.
Abstract
Description
- Embodiments described herein relate to an image forming apparatus.
- An image forming apparatus equipped with a sensor is known. For example, the sensor includes a hook having a claw section. A clamping section for clamping the claw section is arranged in a frame. The sensor is fixed in the frame through the clamping of the claw section of the hook with the clamping section.
- Sometimes, the image forming apparatus is vibrated when being conveyed. The claw section of the hook may deviate from the clamping section when the vibration is violent. If the claw section of the hook deviates from the clamping section, then the internal sensor of the image forming apparatus may fall off.
-
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram exemplifying the structure of an image forming apparatus according toembodiment 1; -
FIG. 2 is a front view of the sensor unit shown in FIG. 1; -
FIG. 3 is an oblique view of the sensor and the base shown inFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 4 is an oblique view of the sensor and the base shown inFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 5 is a sectional view of the sensor and the base shown inFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 6 is a sectional view of the sensor and the base shown inFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 7 is a sectional view of the sensor and the base shown inFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 8 is an oblique view of a sensor and a base according toembodiment 2; -
FIG. 9 is an oblique view exemplifying a variation of a base according toembodiment 2; -
FIG. 10 is an oblique view illustrating a sensor and a base according toembodiment 3; and -
FIG. 11 is an oblique view illustrating a sensor and a base according toembodiment 4. - In accordance with an embodiment, an image forming apparatus comprises a sensor, a base, a clamping section and a limiting section. The sensor includes a hook having a claw section. The sensor is mounted on the base. The clamping section and the limiting section are arranged on the base. The claw section is clamped with the clamping section. The limiting section is elastically deformable when the sensor is mounted on the base. When the claw section is clamped with the clamping section, the limiting section faces the hook from the opposite side of the clamping section, thereby limiting the position of the hook.
- The image forming apparatus of the present invention is described below with reference to accompanying drawings. In the following description, structures having identical or similar function are denoted by the same reference signs. Moreover, description of such structures is omitted in some cases.
-
FIG. 1 exemplifies the structure of animage forming apparatus 1 according toembodiment 1. As shown inFIG. 1 , theimage forming apparatus 1 is an electrophotographic type Multi-Function Peripheral (MFP). - First, the whole structure of the
image forming apparatus 1 is described. - The
image forming apparatus 1 comprises aframe 2, ascanner unit 3, aprinter unit 4 and acontrol unit 5. - The frame (housing, casing) 2 constitutes the frame of the
image forming apparatus 1. Theframe 2 is formed into, for example, a box shape. Theframe 2 accommodates thescanner unit 3 and theprinter unit 4. - The
scanner unit 3 reads the image information of an original as digital data. - The
printer unit 4 forms an image on a sheet according to image data. Theimage forming apparatus 1 forms an image with a recording agent which is, for example, toner. - The
control unit 5 controls the wholeimage forming apparatus 1. That is, thecontrol unit 5 controls thescanner unit 3 and theprinter unit 4. - Next, the
printer unit 4 is described below in detail. - The
printer unit 4 includes anintermediate transfer section 11, apaper feeding section 12, aconveyance path 13, aresist section 14, asecondary transfer section 15, afixing section 16 and apaper discharging section 17. - The intermediate transfer section (primary transfer section) 11 comprises an
intermediate transfer belt 21, a plurality ofrollers image forming portions - The
intermediate transfer belt 21 is formed into a ring shape. The plurality ofrollers intermediate transfer belt 21 so that theintermediate transfer belt 21 can travel circularly in the direction indicated by an arrow A shown inFIG. 1 . - The plurality of image forming portions (processing units) 23Y, 23M, 23C and 23K include a yellow
image forming portion 23Y, a magentaimage forming portion 23M, a cyanimage forming portion 23C and a blackimage forming portion 23K. Theimage forming portions photoconductive drum 25, acharging portion 26, anexposure portion 27, a developingportion 28 and atransfer roller 29. Theimage forming portions - The charging portion (charger) 26 charges the surface of the
photoconductive drum 25. - The exposure portion (exposure scanning head) 27 exposes the surface of the
photoconductive drum 25 to form an electrostatic latent image on the surface of thephotoconductive drum 25 based on image data. - The developing
portion 28 capable of accommodating toners of different colors feeds recording agent to the surface of thephotoconductive drum 25 so that the latent image on thephotoconductive drum 25 is affixed with the recording agent. - The
transfer roller 29 faces theintermediate transfer belt 21 from the side opposite of thephotoconductive drum 25 to transfer (primarily transfer) a recording agent from the surface of thephotoconductive drum 25 to theintermediate transfer belt 21. - Next, the
paper feeding section 12, theconveyance path 13, theresist section 14, thesecondary transfer section 15, thefixing section 16 and thepaper discharging section 17 are described below. - The
paper feeding section 12 comprises apaper cassette 12 a and apickup roller 12 b. Thepaper cassette 12 a arranged in theframe 2 can be drawn out from theframe 2. Thepaper cassette 12 a is capable of accommodating a sheet P to be printed with an image. Thepickup roller 12 b is arranged in thepaper cassette 12 a. Thepickup roller 12 b conveys the sheet P accommodated in thepaper cassette 12 a towards theconveyance path 13. - Starting with the
paper feeding section 12, theconveyance path 13 passes theresist section 14, thesecondary transfer section 15 and thefixing section 16 and ends with thepaper discharging section 17. The paper P is conveyed in theconveyance path 13. - In the embodiment, the
conveyance path 13 includes areverse conveyance path 13 a which returns the paper P passing the fixingsection 16 to the resistsection 14. The two sides of the paper P are inverted when the paper P passes thereverse conveyance path 13 a so as to form an image on the back of the paper P. - The resist section (resist roller pair) 14 is positioned between the
paper feeding section 12 and thesecondary transfer section 15. The resistsection 14 temporarily limits the paper P. Then, the paper P is paused. The resistsection 14 conveys the paper P towards thesecondary transfer section 15 matching in timing with the conveyance of the recording agent transferred on theintermediate transfer belt 21. - The
secondary transfer section 15 comprises atransfer roller 15 a which is connected with the outer side of theintermediate transfer belt 21. Thebelt roller 22 d supporting theintermediate transfer belt 21 constitutes a structural element of thesecondary transfer section 15. Thebelt roller 22 d is opposite to thetransfer roller 15 a across theintermediate transfer belt 21. The paper P is clamped between thetransfer roller 15 a and thebelt roller 22 d together with theintermediate transfer belt 21. In this way, the recording agent on theintermediate transfer belt 21 is transferred (secondarily transferred) onto the surface of the paper P. The paper P passing thesecondary transfer section 15 is sent to the fixingsection 16. - The fixing
section 16 comprises aheat roller 16 a and apress roller 16 b. The temperature of theheat roller 16 a is controlled at a fixation temperature (printing temperature) suitable for the fixation of the recording agent. Thepress roller 16 b faces the paper P from the opposite side of theheat roller 16 a. The paper P on which the recording agent is transferred is clamped by theheat roller 16 a and thepress roller 16 b so as to be heated and pressurized between theheat roller 16 a and thepress roller 16 b. Then, the recording agent transferred on the paper P is fixed on the paper P. - The
paper discharging section 17 discharges the paper P passing the fixingsection 16. - Next, a
sensor unit 31 arranged in theimage forming apparatus 1 is described below. - As shown in
FIG. 1 , thesensor unit 31 is arranged on theconveyance path 13. For example, thesensor unit 31 is located between the resistsection 14 and thesecondary transfer section 15. Further, thesensor unit 31 is not limited to be installed at a specific position. For example, thesensor unit 31 may also be arranged between thesecondary transfer section 15 and the fixingsection 16 or between the fixingsection 16 and thepaper discharging section 17. Thesensor unit 31 may also be arranged on thereverse conveyance path 13 a. - The
sensor unit 31 detects the position of the paper P in theconveyance path 13. For example, thesensor unit 31 detects the entrance of the paper P into a specific area. Further, thesensor unit 31 detects the departure of the paper P from the specific area. -
FIG. 2 illustrates thesensor unit 31 specifically. As shown inFIG. 2 , thesensor unit 31 comprises asensor 41 and a workingpart 42. - The
sensor 41 is described first. -
FIG. 3 illustrates thesensor 41 and abase 43. For example, thesensor 41 is an optical sensor. As shown inFIG. 3 , thesensor 41 comprises alight emitting unit 51, alight receiving unit 52, aconnector 53 and aretainer unit 54. - The
light emitting unit 51 comprises alight emitting component 51 a. Thelight emitting unit 51 emits light towards thelight receiving unit 52. - The
light receiving unit 52 comprises alight receiving component 52 a. Thelight receiving unit 52 receives the light emitted from thelight emitting unit 51. - The
sensor 41 carries out a detection action when the light emitted from thelight emitting unit 51 towards thelight receiving unit 52 is shielded. The ‘detection action’, as mentioned herein, refers to the output of a specific signal to the outside. Further, thelight emitting unit 51 and thelight receiving unit 52 may be reverse to each other in position. - The
connector 53 is electrically connected with thecontrol unit 5 of theimage forming apparatus 1 via a cable. Theconnector 53 outputs the detection result of thesensor 41 to thecontrol unit 5. - The
retainer unit 54 retains thelight emitting unit 51, thelight receiving unit 52 and theconnector 53 as a whole. Theretainer unit 54 is made from a synthetic resin (e.g. plastic). Theretainer unit 54 is described in detail later. - Next, the working part (execution unit) 42 is described.
- As shown in
FIG. 2 , the workingpart 42 includes apivot 56, afirst part 57 and asecond part 58. - The
pivot 56 located between the first.part 57 and thesecond part 58 can be rotationally supported in theframe 2. The workingpart 42 can be rotated in the range between a first gesture ((a) shown inFIG. 2 ) and a second gesture ((b) shown inFIG. 2 ) by taking thepivot 56 as the center. - An
elastic component 59 is propped against the workingpart 42. For example, theelastic component 59 is a spring. The workingpart 42 applies a force towards the first gesture via theelastic component 59. - The
first part 57 protrudes towards theconveyance path 13 in the first gesture. The paper P moving in theconveyance path 13 is connected with thefirst part 57. When the paper P is connected with thefirst part 57, the workingpart 42 rotates from the first gesture to the second gesture. - The
second part 58 is integrated with thefirst part 57. Thesecond part 58 departs from the space between thelight emitting unit 51 and thelight receiving unit 52 of thesensor 41 in the first gesture. On the other hand, thesecond part 58 enters the space between thelight emitting unit 51 and thelight receiving unit 52 of thesensor 41 in the second gesture so as to shield, in the second gesture, the light emitted from thelight emitting unit 51 to thelight receiving unit 52. Thesensor 41 shields the light by means of thesecond part 58, thereby carrying out a detection action. That is, thesensor 41 shields the light emitted from thelight emitting unit 51 towards thelight receiving unit 52, thereby detecting the position of the paper P. - The
sensor 41 outputs the detection result of thesensor 41 to thecontrol unit 5. Thecontrol unit 5 controls thepaper feeding section 12, the resistsection 14, thesecondary transfer section 15 and the fixingsection 16 according to the detection result of thesensor 41. - Sequentially, the installation of the
sensor 41 is described. - X direction, Y direction and Z direction are defined here. The X direction and the Y direction are directions along the holding side 70 (refer to
FIG. 4 ) of the under-mentionedbase 43. The X direction is the length direction of thesensor 41. For example, The X direction is the direction in which thelight emitting unit 51 and thelight receiving unit 52 are arranged. The Y direction is a direction intersecting with (e.g. nearly orthogonal to) the X direction. For example, The Y direction is the width direction of thesensor 41. The Z direction is a direction intersecting with (e.g. nearly orthogonal to) the X direction and the Y direction. The Z direction is the direction in which thesensor 41 is mounted on thebase 43. The Z direction is the direction from which thefirst hook 65 of thesensor 41 is inserted. -
FIG. 4 illustrates thesensor 41 and thebase 43. As shown inFIG. 4 , theretainer unit 54 of thesensor 41 includes afirst end section 61, asecond end section 62, afirst insertion section 63, asecond insertion section 64, afirst hook 65, asecond hook 66 and athird hook 67. - The
first end section 61 and thesecond end section 62 are the two ends of theretainer unit 54 in the X direction. Thesecond end section 62 is located on the opposite side of thefirst end section 61 and connected with theconnector 53. - The
first insertion section 63 and thesecond insertion section 64 are arranged on thefirst end section 61 of theretainer unit 54. Thefirst insertion section 63 and thesecond insertion section 64 are separately located on the two ends of theretainer unit 54 in the Y direction. Thefirst insertion section 63 and thesecond insertion section 64 protrude towards the Z direction. Thefirst insertion section 63 and thesecond insertion section 64 function as guiders for guiding the installation of thesensor 41. - The
first hook 65 is arranged on the first end section of theretainer unit 54, located between thefirst insertion section 63 and thesecond insertion section 64 and protruded towards the Z direction. Thefirst hook 65 is elastically deformable. For example, thefirst hook 65 is elastically deformable in the X direction and a direction opposite to the X direction. Thefirst hook 65 has aclaw section 65 a which is protruded from thefirst hook 65 towards the X direction. - The
second hook 66 and thethird hook 67 are arranged on thesecond end section 62 of theretainer unit 54. Thesecond hook 66 and thethird hook 67 are separately located on the two ends of theretainer unit 54 in the Y direction. Thesecond hook 66 and thethird hook 67 are protruded towards the Z direction. Thesecond hook 66 has aclaw section 66 a. Thethird hook 67 has aclaw section 67 a. Theclaw section 66 a of thesecond hook 66 and theclaw section 67 a of thethird hook 67 extend towards the outside of theretainer unit 54 along the Y direction. That is, theclaw section 66 a of thesecond hook 66 and theclaw section 67 a of thethird hook 67 extend towards opposite directions. - Sequentially, the base (sensor holder) 43 is described.
- The
base 43 is a part on which thesensor 41 is installed. Thebase 43 is arranged inside theframe 2. For example, thebase 43 is a part of a synthetic resin component (molded component) inside theframe 2. For example, thebase 43 is a part of the components forming theconveyance path 13. Further, thebase 43 may be integrated with theframe 2. - As shown in
FIG. 4 , thebase 43 has a holdingside 70, afirst opening section 71, afirst clamping section 72, a first limitingsection 73, a second and athird opening section third clamping section section - The
sensor 41 is held on the holdingside 70 along the Z direction. Further, the ‘side’, as used herein, refers to ‘surface’. That is, the holdingside 70 may be accidented, not limited to be a flat surface. - The
first opening section 71 is opened on the holdingside 70. Thefirst opening section 71 penetrates through the base 43 in the Z direction. Thefirst insertion section 63, thesecond insertion section 64 and thefirst hook 65 of thesensor 41 are inserted into thefirst opening section 71 along the Z direction. The inner surface of thefirst opening section 71 faces thefirst insertion section 63 and thesecond insertion section 64 of thesensor 41 so as to limit the position of thesensor 41 in the Y direction. - The
first clamping section 72 arranged on one end of thefirst opening section 71 in the X direction is an example of a ‘clamping section’. Thefirst clamping section 72 extends from an inner surface of thefirst opening section 71 towards the inside of thefirst opening section 71. For example, thefirst clamping section 72 is formed into a flat plate. -
FIG. 5 shows the sections of thesensor 41 and thebase 43. As shown inFIG. 5 , theclaw section 65 a of thefirst hook 65 is clamped with thefirst clamping section 72. For example, theclaw section 65 a of thefirst hook 65 is mounted into thefirst clamping section 72 from the opposite side of the holdingside 70. In this way, thefirst end section 61 of theretainer unit 54 of thesensor 41 is fixed on thebase 43. - As shown in
FIG. 4 , the first limiting section (support section) 73 is arranged on the end of thefirst opening section 71 in the direction opposite to the X direction. The first limitingsection 73 is an example of a ‘limiting section’. As shown inFIG. 5 , the first limitingsection 73 extends from an inner surface of thefirst opening section 71 towards the inside of thefirst opening section 71. The first limitingsection 73 extends in the X direction. For example, the first limitingsection 73 is formed into a plate linearly extending in the X direction. The length L1 (refer toFIG. 5 ) of the first limitingsection 73 in the X direction is greater than the width W1 (refer toFIG. 4 ) of the first limitingsection 73 in the Y direction. Thus, the first limitingsection 73 is greatly elastically deformable in the Z direction. - Described more specifically, the first limiting
section 73 has anend part 81 and an extendingpart 82. - The
end part 81 is the end of the first limitingsection 73 in the X direction. Theend part 81 is referred to as a free end of a cantilever. - The extending
part 82 extends from theend part 81 towards the direction opposite to the X direction. The extendingpart 82 extending linearly from theend part 81 is connected with the base 43 so that the first limitingsection 73 is supported on thebase 43. That is, the first limitingsection 73 is formed as a cantilever. - Sequentially, the relationship between the
first hook 65 and the first limitingsection 73 is described. - As shown in
FIG. 5 , the first limitingsection 73 faces thefirst hook 65 from the opposite side of thefirst clamping section 72 when theclaw section 65 a is clamped with thefirst clamping section 72. Specifically, theend part 81 of the first limitingsection 73 faces thefirst hook 65 in the X direction so that the first limitingsection 73 limits the position of thefirst hook 65 in the X direction. The first limitingsection 73 limits the movement of thefirst hook 65 away from thefirst clamping section 72. The first limitingsection 73 limits thefirst hook 65 at the position where theclaw section 65 a is clamped with the first clamping section 72 (that is, the position where theclaw section 65 a is not separated from the first clamping section 72). - Sequentially, the size of each part of the
sensor 41 and thebase 43 is exemplified. -
FIG. 6 shows the sections of thesensor 41 and thebase 43. As shown inFIG. 6 , the width A of thefirst hook 65 having theclaw section 65 a in the X direction is 2.1 mm-4.5 mm. On the other hand, the width E of thefirst hook 65 not having theclaw section 65 a in the X direction is 0.6 mm-3.0 mm. Further, the gap between thefirst clamping section 72 and the first limitingsection 73 in the X direction is set to be C. Here, as thefirst hook 65 is clamped with thefirst clamping section 72, the following relational expression should be met: A>C>E. Thus, it is set that the gap C between thefirst clamping section 72 and the first limitingsection 73 in the X direction is 0.6 mm-4.5 mm. - Further, the thickness B of the
claw section 65 a in the Z direction is 1.8 mm-2.3 mm. The gap between thefirst clamping section 72 and the first limitingsection 73 in the Z direction is set to be D. Here, as thefirst hook 65 is clamped with thefirst clamping section 72, the following relational expression should be met: B>D. Thus, it is set that the gap D between thefirst clamping section 72 and the first limitingsection 73 in the Z direction is below 2.3 mm. - Next, the second and the
third opening section third clamping section section - As shown in
FIG. 4 , the second and thethird opening section side 70. The second and thethird opening section second hook 66 of thesensor 41 is inserted into thesecond opening section 74 along the Z direction. Thethird hook 67 of thesensor 41 is inserted into thethird opening section 75 along the Z direction. - The
second clamping section 76 is arranged on thebase 43. Theclaw section 66 a of thesecond hook 66 is clamped with thesecond clamping section 76. For example, theclaw section 66 a of thesecond hook 66 is mounted into thesecond clamping section 76 from the opposite side of the holdingside 70. - Similarly, the
third clamping section 77 is arranged on thebase 43. Theclaw section 67 a of thethird hook 67 is clamped with thethird clamping section 77. For example, theclaw section 67 a of thethird hook 67 is mounted into thethird clamping section 77 from the opposite side of the holdingside 70. In this way, thesecond end section 62 of theretainer unit 54 of thesensor 41 is fixed on thebase 43. - The second limiting
section 78 faces thesecond hook 66 from the opposite side of thesecond clamping section 76 when theclaw section 66 a of thesecond hook 66 is clamped with thesecond clamping section 76. The second limitingsection 78 limits the movement of thesecond hook 66 away from thesecond clamping section 76. - The second limiting
section 78 includes aninclined side 78 a which is inclined towards a direction departing from thesecond hook 66 as theinclined side 78 a advances in the X direction. Thus, the limitation of the second limitingsection 78 to thesecond hook 66 is released when thesecond hook 66 is moved towards the X direction. In this way, theclaw section 66 a of thesecond hook 66 is deviated from thesecond clamping section 76. - Similarly, the third limiting
section 79 faces thethird hook 67 from the opposite side of thethird clamping section 77 when theclaw section 67 a of thethird hook 67 is clamped with thethird clamping section 77. The third limitingsection 79 limits the movement of thethird hook 67 away from thethird clamping section 77. - The third limiting
section 79 includes aninclined side 79 a which is inclined towards a direction departing from thethird hook 67 as theinclined side 79 a advances in the X direction. Thus, the limitation of the third limitingsection 79 to thethird hook 67 is released when thethird hook 67 is moved towards the X direction. In this way, theclaw section 67 a of thethird hook 67 is deviated from thethird clamping section 77. - Sequentially, a method for mounting the
sensor 41 on thebase 43 is exemplified. -
FIG. 7 illustrates a method for mounting thesensor 41 on thebase 43. As shown inFIG. 7 , in the mounting of thesensor 41 on thebase 43, first, thesecond hook 66 and thethird hook 67 of thesensor 41 are inserted into thesecond opening section 74 and thethird opening section 75 of the base 43 so that thesecond hook 66 and thethird hook 67 are clamped with thesecond clamping section 76 and thethird clamping section 77. Further, the positions of thesecond hook 66 and thethird hook 67 are limited by the second limitingsection 78 and the third limitingsection 79. - Next, the
first hook 65 of thesensor 41 is inserted into thefirst opening section 71 of thebase 43. Specifically, thefirst hook 65 is inserted between thefirst clamping section 72 and the first limitingsection 73. In this case, thefirst hook 65 is elastically deformed in a direction departing from thefirst clamping section 72 when theclaw section 65 a of thefirst hook 65 passes thefirst clamping section 72. At this time, as theclaw section 65 a of thefirst hook 65 passes thefirst clamping section 72, the first limitingsection 73 is elastically deformed in the direction from which thefirst hook 65 is inserted. As a consequence, theclaw section 65 a of thefirst hook 65 is clamped with thefirst clamping section 72. - If the
claw section 65 a of thefirst hook 65 is clamped with thefirst clamping section 72, then thefirst hook 65 is recovered to a state in which thefirst hook 65 is not elastically deformed. Similarly, the first limitingsection 73 is recovered to a state in which the first limitingsection 73 is not elastically deformed. In this way, the first limitingsection 73 faces thefirst hook 65 from the opposite side of thefirst clamping section 72 to limit the position of thefirst hook 65. - With this structure, the
sensor 41 in theimage forming apparatus 1 is prevented from falling off. - For example, to prevent the
internal sensor 41 from falling off, it is also considered to mount another component to prevent the deviation of thesensor 41. In this case, the number of the parts of theimage forming apparatus 1 is increased, and the procedures of assembling theimage forming apparatus 1 are also increased. - Further, as another method, it is also considered to position a hook for preventing the deviation of the
sensor 41 on thebase 43. Fox example, the hook is arranged at a position between thelight emitting unit 51 and thelight receiving unit 52 of thesensor 41. In this case, the hook is partially located at a position between thelight emitting unit 51 and thelight receiving unit 52. Thus, sometimes, the detection allowance of thesensor 41 may be reduced. - On the other hand, the
image forming apparatus 1 of the embodiment comprises thesensor 41, thebase 43, thefirst clamping section 72 and the first limitingsection 73. Thesensor 41 includes thefirst hook 65 having theclaw section 65 a. Thesensor 41 is mounted on thebase 43. Thefirst clamping section 72 and the first limitingsection 73 are arranged on thebase 43. Theclaw section 65 a of thefirst hook 65 is clamped with thefirst clamping section 72. The first limitingsection 73 is elastically deformable when thesensor 41 is mounted on thebase 43. When theclaw section 65 a is clamped with thefirst clamping section 72, the first limitingsection 73 faces thefirst hook 65 from the opposite side of thefirst clamping section 72 to limit the position of thefirst hook 65. - With this structure, the position of the
first hook 65 is limited by the first limitingsection 73. Then, even if theimage forming apparatus 1 is vibrated relatively violently, it is difficult for theclaw section 65 a of thefirst hook 65 to deviate from thefirst clamping section 72. Thus, thesensor 41 in theimage forming apparatus 1 is prevented from falling off. Further, according to the structure of the embodiment, no other parts are needed. It is impossible that the detection allowance of thesensor 41 is reduced. Further, it is not needed to change the shape of thesensor 41. - In the embodiment, when the
first hook 65 is inserted between the first limitingsection 73 and thefirst clamping section 72, the first limitingsection 73 is elastically deformed in the direction from which thefirst hook 65 is inserted. With this structure, even in a structure equipped with the first limitingsection 73, theclaw section 65 a of thefirst hook 65 can be easily clamped with thefirst clamping section 72. Thus, the assembly operation of theimage forming apparatus 1 is facilitated. - Further, if the first limiting
section 73 is elastically deformable, then the first limitingsection 73 can be protruded to be close to thefirst hook 65, thus reducing the possibility of the deviation of theclaw section 65 a of thefirst hook 65 from thefirst clamping section 72. - In the embodiment, the first limiting
section 73 extends linearly in the direction opposite to the direction in which the first limitingsection 73 faces thefirst hook 65. In this structure, the first limitingsection 73 can be deformed elastically in the Z direction. Further, when applied with a force from the direction opposite to the X direction, the first limitingsection 73 is extended. Thus, even if applied with a relatively large force, the first limitingsection 73 bears the force without being curved. Consequentially, the first limitingsection 73 is capable of firmly limiting the position of thefirst hook 65 in the X direction. That is, according to the foregoing structure, the assembly of theimage forming apparatus 1 is facilitated and the possibility that thesensor 41 falls off is reduced. - In the embodiment, a working
part 42 is also configured. The workingpart 42 functions by approaching the paper P conveyed in theconveyance path 13. Thesensor 41 comprises thelight emitting unit 51 and thelight receiving unit 52 for receiving the light from thelight emitting unit 51. Thesensor 41 carries out a detection action by causing a part of the workingpart 42 to enter the space between thelight emitting unit 51 and thelight receiving unit 52. According to this structure, thesensor 41 configured to detect the position of paper P can be prevented from falling off. - In the embodiment, the first limiting
section 73 extends along the direction in which thelight emitting unit 51 and thelight receiving unit 52 are arranged. The direction in which thelight emitting unit 51 and thelight receiving unit 52 are arranged is likely to be the length of thesensor 41. That is, in the embodiment, the first limitingsection 73 is configured along the direction in which thelight emitting unit 51 and thelight receiving unit 52 are arranged. Thus, thebase 43 is not large even if the first limitingsection 73 is long, which is beneficial to the miniaturization of thesensor unit 31. - Next, the
image forming apparatus 1 ofembodiment 2 is described below. - In
embodiment 2, the first limitingsection 73 is L-shaped, which is different from that ofembodiment 1. The other components ofembodiment 2 are structurally identical to those ofembodiment 1. Thus, the components ofembodiment 2 identical to those ofembodiment 1 are not described here. -
FIG. 8 shows thesensor 41 and thebase 43 ofembodiment 2. As shown inFIG. 8 , the first limitingsection 73 is an L-shaped. Described in detail, the first limitingsection 73 has anend part 81, afirst part 82 and asecond part 83. - The
end part 81 faces thefirst hook 65 in the X direction. - The
first part 82 extends linearly from theend part 81 in the direction opposite to the X direction. Thefirst part 82 is equivalent to the extendingpart 82 ofembodiment 1. - The
second part 83 extends from thefirst part 82 in a direction intersecting with thefirst part 82. For example, thesecond part 83 extends towards a direction substantially orthogonal to thefirst part 82. Thesecond part 83 extends linearly from thefirst part 82. Thesecond part 83 is connected with the base 43 so as to be supported on thebase 43. Thesecond part 83 is elastically deformable in the direction from which thefirst part 82 departs from thefirst hook 65. - Described in detail, the width W2 of the
second part 83 in the X direction is smaller than the width W1 of thefirst part 82 in the Y direction. Thus, thesecond part 83 is elastically deformable in the direction from which thefirst part 82 departs from thefirst hook 65. - Further, the
second part 83 has athick wall portion 91 the thickness of which in the Z direction is greater than that of thefirst part 82 in the Z direction. Thethick wall portion 91 is arranged on the end of thesecond part 83 connected with thebase 43, thereby increasing the rigidity of theconnection part 92 of thesecond part 83 and thebase 43. - As shown in
FIG. 8 , thefirst opening section 71 is corresponding in shape to the first limitingsection 73. The first limitingsection 73 is accommodated in thefirst opening section 71. - The
second part 83 of the first limitingsection 73 includes an exposedportion 93 which is not overlapped with thesensor 41 in the direction from which thesensor 41 is mounted on the base 43 (the Z direction). A slit S into which the front end of a tool can be inserted is formed between the exposedportion 93 of thesecond part 83 and the internal surfaces of thefirst opening section 71. For example, the tool is a screw driver D1. The tool is not limited to be a screw driver D1. - Sequentially, a method for removing the
sensor 41 is described. - In the embodiment, the front end of the screw driver D1 is inserted into the slit S between the
second part 83 of the first limitingsection 73 and the internal surface of thefirst opening section 71. Then, the screw driver D1 is rotated. Thesecond part 83 of the first limitingsection 73 is elastically deformed in a direction departing from thefirst clamping section 72 so that thefirst part 82 of the first limitingsection 73 is moved in a direction departing from thefirst hook 65. Consequentially, thefirst hook 65 is moved to a position where theclaw section 65 a is deviated from thefirst clamping section 72. In this way, thefirst hook 65 is deviated from thefirst clamping section 72. - After the
first hook 65 is deviated from thefirst clamping section 72, the operator removes thefirst hook 65 from thefirst opening section 71. Moreover, after thefirst hook 65 is removed from thefirst opening section 71, thewhole sensor 41 is moved towards the X direction. Then, the limitation of the second limitingsection 78 and the third limitingsection 79 to thesecond hook 66 and thethird hook 67 is released. Consequentially, thesecond hook 66 and thethird hook 67 are deviated from thesecond clamping section 76 and thethird clamping section 77. Then, thesensor 41 is removed from thebase 43. - With this structure, the removal of the
sensor 41 is facilitated. That is, in the embodiment, the first limitingsection 73 has afirst part 82 extending in the direction opposite to the direction in which the first limitingsection 73 faces thefirst hook 65 and asecond part 83 extending in a direction intersecting with thefirst part 82. Thesecond part 83 is elastically deformable in the direction thefirst part 82 departs from thefirst hook 65. With this structure, the limitation of the first limitingsection 73 to thefirst hook 65 is released through the elastic deformation of thesecond part 83 so that theclaw section 65 a of thefirst hook 65 is deviated from thefirst clamping section 72. Then, thesensor 41 can be easily removed from thebase 43. If thesensor 41 can be easily removed from thebase 43, then thesensor 41 can be maintained or replaced easily. - In the embodiment, the
base 43 has afirst opening section 71 for accommodating the first limitingsection 73. A slit S is formed between thesecond part 83 of the first limitingsection 73 and the internal surface of thefirst opening section 71. According to this structure, thesecond part 83 can be elastically deformed easily by inserting a tool into the slit S between thesecond part 83 of the first limitingsection 73 and the internal surface of thefirst opening section 71. Thus, thesensor 41 can be removed more easily. -
FIG. 9 exemplifies a variation of theimage forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment. As shown inFIG. 9 , thebase 43 may further compriseguiders 95. Theguiders 95 are arranged on two sides of the slit S. That is, theguiders 95 are arranged on thesecond part 83 of the first limitingsection 73 and the holdingside 70. Theguider 95 is capable of guiding a tool to the slit S between thesecond part 83 of the first limitingsection 73 and the internal surface of thefirst opening section 71. With this structure, a tool can be inserted into the slit S between thesecond part 83 of the first limitingsection 73 and the internal surface of thefirst opening section 71 more easily. Thus, thesensor 41 can be removed more easily. - Next, the
image forming apparatus 1 ofembodiment 3 is described below. - In
embodiment 3, thesecond part 83 of the first limitingsection 73 has a groove, which is different from that ofembodiment 2. The other components ofembodiment 3 are structurally identical to those ofembodiment 2. Thus, the components ofembodiment 3 identical to those ofembodiment 1 andembodiment 2 are not described here. -
FIG. 10 shows thesensor 41 and thebase 43 ofembodiment 3. As shown inFIG. 10 , the first limitingsection 73 has a first side 73 a and a second side 73 b. The first side 73 a faces thesensor 41. The second side 73 b is located at the opposite side of the first side 73 a. - In the embodiment, the first limiting
section 73 has agroove 101. For example, thegroove 101 is arranged on the first side 73 a of the first limitingsection 73. For example, thegroove 101 is arranged on the exposedportion 93 of thesecond part 83 of the first limitingsection 73. Thus, even if thesensor 41 is mounted on thebase 43, thegroove 101 is exposed outside. Thegroove 101 may also be arranged on the second side 73 b of the first limitingsection 73. For example, thegroove 101 is located nearby theconnection part 92 of thesecond part 83 and thebase 43. For example, thegroove 101 is closer to theconnection part 92 than thefirst part 82. - The front end of a tool can be inserted into the
groove 101. For example, thegroove 101 is cruciform. For example, the tool is a cross screwdriver D2. For example, the tool is not limited to a cross screwdriver D2. Moreover, thegroove 101 is not limited to be cruciform. - Next, a method for removing the
sensor 41 is described. - In the embodiment, first, the front end of the cross screwdriver D2 is inserted into the
groove 101 on thesecond part 83 of the first limitingsection 73. Then, the cross screwdriver D2 is rotated so that thesecond part 83 of the first limitingsection 73 is elastically deformed in a direction departing from thefirst clamping section 72. Thus, thefirst part 82 of the first limitingsection 73 is moved in a direction departing from thefirst hook 65. Consequentially, thefirst hook 65 is moved to a position where theclaw section 65 a is deviated from thefirst clamping section 72 so that thefirst hook 65 is deviated from thefirst clamping section 72. - According to this structure, the removal of the
sensor 41 is facilitated, like inembodiment 2. Further, in the embodiment, thegroove 101 is arranged at a position where thegroove 101 is not overlapped with thesensor 41 in the direction from which thesensor 41 is mounted on thebase 43. With this structure, even if thesensor 41 is mounted on thebase 43, the front end of a tool can be easily inserted into thegroove 101 of the first limitingsection 73. - Next, the
image forming apparatus 1 ofembodiment 4 is described below. - In
embodiment 4, the first limitingsection 73 is different from that ofembodiment 3 in having a protruded point. The other components ofembodiment 4 are structurally identical to those ofembodiment 3. Thus, the components ofembodiment 4 identical to those ofembodiment 1 toembodiment 3 are not described here. -
FIG. 11 shows thesensor 41 and thebase 43 ofembodiment 4. As shown inFIG. 11 , the first limitingsection 73 has aprotrusion 105. For example, theprotrusion 105 is arranged on the second side 73 b of the first limitingsection 73. For example, theprotrusion 105 is arranged at a position where theprotrusion 105 is overlapped with thesensor 41 in the direction from which thesensor 41 is mounted on the base 43 (the Z direction). For example, theprotrusion 105 is arranged on theconnection part 106 of thefirst part 82 and thesecond part 83. If theprotrusion 105 is arranged at the position away from theconnection part 92 of thesecond part 83 and thebase 43, then thesecond part 83 can be elastically deformed when applied with a relatively small force. - Alternatively, the
protrusion 105 is arranged on the first side 73 a of the first limitingsection 73. For example, theprotrusion 105 is arranged on the exposedportion 93 of thesecond part 83 of the first limitingsection 73. - Next, a method for removing the
sensor 41 is described. - In the embodiment, the operator touches the
protrusion 105 with fingers and presses theprotrusion 105 towards a direction departing from thefirst clamping section 72. Then, thesecond part 83 of the first limitingsection 73 is elastically deformed in the direction departing from thefirst clamping section 72. Thus, thefirst part 82 of the first limitingsection 73 is moved away from thefirst hook 65. Consequentially, thefirst hook 65 is moved to a position where theclaw section 65 a is deviated from thefirst clamping section 72 so that thefirst hook 65 is deviated from thefirst clamping section 72. - According to this structure, the removal of the
sensor 41 is facilitated, like inembodiment 2. Further, in the embodiment, theprotrusion 105 is arranged on the second side 73 b of the first limitingsection 73. According to this structure, thesensor 41 can be easily removed even if the operator can only touch the back of thesensor 41. - In accordance with at least one of the foregoing embodiments, an image forming apparatus comprises a sensor, a base, a clamping section and a limiting section. The sensor includes a hook having a claw section. The sensor is held on the base. The clamping unit and the limiting unit are arranged on the base. The claw section is clamped with the clamping section. The limiting section is elastically deformable when the sensor is mounted on the base. When the claw section is clamped with the clamping section, the limiting section faces the hook from the opposite side of the clamping section, thereby limiting the position of the hook. Thus, the
sensor 41 in theimage forming apparatus 1 is prevented from falling off. - Here, the
image forming apparatuses 1 of the foregoing embodiments 1-4 have a decoloration function of decolorizing the color of the image formed on paper P. Further, the ‘decoloration’ mentioned herein refers to decolorizing an image formed in a color different from the visible fundamental color of paper (including achromatic colors such as white and black in addition to chromatic colors). For example, theimage forming apparatus 1 controls the temperature of the fixingsection 16 at a decoloration temperature so as to decolorize the image on the paper P passing the fixingsection 16. Thus, theimage forming apparatus 1 is an example of a ‘decolorization apparatus’. Further, the structures of embodiments 1-4 (e.g. the structures of thesensor 41 and the base 43) are also applicable to a decolorization apparatus not having an image forming function. Further, the ‘image forming apparatus’ and the ‘decolorization apparatus’ are both herein referred to as ‘image processing apparatus’. - While certain embodiments have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Indeed, the novel embodiments described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms; furthermore, various omissions, substitutions and changes in the form of the embodiments described herein may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. The accompanying claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or modifications as would fall within the scope and spirit of the invention.
Claims (10)
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US15/387,785 US9860401B2 (en) | 2015-07-24 | 2016-12-22 | Image forming apparatus |
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US20170104883A1 (en) * | 2015-07-24 | 2017-04-13 | Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba | Image forming apparatus |
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JPH0821237B2 (en) * | 1990-06-27 | 1996-03-04 | 株式会社東芝 | Semiconductor memory device |
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JP4157229B2 (en) * | 1998-07-14 | 2008-10-01 | 東芝テック株式会社 | Sheet storage / conveyance apparatus and image forming apparatus using the same |
JP2000034660A (en) * | 1998-07-17 | 2000-02-02 | Uni Charm Corp | Production of wet nonwoven fabric and apparatus for production |
JP3669472B2 (en) * | 1999-03-09 | 2005-07-06 | 本田技研工業株式会社 | Bending method and bending apparatus for flanged metal member |
US6470163B1 (en) * | 1999-10-27 | 2002-10-22 | Canon Kabushiki Kaisha | Developer stirring member, assembly method and recycling method for the same |
JP3840153B2 (en) * | 2002-07-10 | 2006-11-01 | キヤノン株式会社 | Recording device |
CN100456145C (en) * | 2003-09-18 | 2009-01-28 | 佳能精技股份有限公司 | Paper sheet post-treatment appts and image former |
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US20170104883A1 (en) * | 2015-07-24 | 2017-04-13 | Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba | Image forming apparatus |
US9860401B2 (en) * | 2015-07-24 | 2018-01-02 | Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba | Image forming apparatus |
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