WO2019176890A1

WO2019176890A1 - Packing member and packing unit

Info

Publication number: WO2019176890A1
Application number: PCT/JP2019/009839
Authority: WO
Inventors: Kengo Sakai; Taiji Watanabe; Hideto Sakai; Mitsuhiro Sato
Original assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
Priority date: 2018-03-15
Filing date: 2019-03-12
Publication date: 2019-09-19

Abstract

A packing member configured to be attached to a packed object includes an accommodating portion configured to accommodate at least part of the packed object, a holding portion configured to hold the packed object, and a buffer portion that projects from the holding portion toward an outer side of the accommodating portion. The buffer portion is configured to form a closed loop together with the holding portion. The buffer portion is bent so as to form a first projection that projects toward the outer side of the accommodating portion, a second projection that projects toward the outer side of the accommodating portion, and a recessed portion recessed toward an inner side of the accommodating portion. In a circumferential direction of the closed loop, the recessed portion is positioned between the first projection and the second projection.

Description

PACKING MEMBER AND PACKING UNIT

The present disclosure relates to a packing member used when packing a packed object, and a packing unit including the packed object and the packing member that packs the packed object.

Note that the packing member is a member that protects the packed object from external vibration and impact when transporting the packed object.

An example of the packed object is, for example, a cartridge of an image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus includes an electrophotographic copying machine, an electrophotographic printer (for example, a laser printer, an LED printer, and the like), a facsimile machine, and a word processor. Furthermore, the cartridge is a replacement part that is detachable from the image forming apparatus. The cartridge includes, for example, a cartridge including an electrophotographic photoconductor that is an image bearing member, a cartridge including a developing member that acts on an electrophotographic photoconductor, or a cartridge that includes developer.

Note that the packed object such as a cartridge is packed in a packing member that protects the packed object from vibration and impact during transportation. The specification of PTL 1 discloses a packing member that includes a pair of arch portions and that utilizes both the crush characteristics of the material and the deformation characteristics of the arch portions.

A buffer portion provided in the packing member in the specification of PTL 1 has an arch shape with a single peak. Accordingly, when the buffer portion receiving an impact is compressed, the portion that received the impact moves substantially in one direction. One method of improving the buffer performance of the buffer portion having such a shape is increasing the buffer portion in the height direction and obtaining a long buffer distance. However, when the buffer distance is increased, the size of the packaging box that accommodates the packing member needs to be increased.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0125683

The present disclosure provides a packing member that is capable of improving buffer performance without increasing a size of a buffer portion in a height direction.

One of the aspects of the disclosure according to the present application is a packing member configured to be attached to a packed object, the packing member including an accommodating portion configured to accommodate at least part of the packed object, a holding portion configured to hold the packed object, and a buffer portion that projects from the holding portion toward an outer side of the accommodating portion. In the packing member, the buffer portion is configured to form a closed loop together with the holding portion, the buffer portion is bent so as to form a first projection that projects toward the outer side of the accommodating portion, a second projection that projects toward the outer side of the accommodating portion, and a recessed portion recessed toward an inner side of the accommodating portion. In a circumferential direction of the closed loop, the recessed portion is positioned between the first projection and the second projection. And in a position where the recessed portion is formed, the buffer portion is movable between a position away from the holding portion and a position in contact with the holding portion by elastic deformation of the buffer portion.

One of the aspects of the disclosure according to the present application is a packing member configured to be attached to a packed object, the packing member including an accommodating portion configured to accommodate at least part of the packed object, a holding portion configured to hold the packed object, and a buffer portion that projects from the holding portion toward an outer side of the accommodating portion. In the packing member, the buffer portion is configured to form a closed loop together with the holding portion, the buffer portion is capable of contacting a virtual plane positioned on an outer side of the closed loop with a first contact portion and a second contact portion, the buffer portion including an opposition portion that opposes the virtual plane with a gap in between. In a circumferential direction of the closed loop, the second contact portion is positioned at a position away from the first contact portion, the opposition portion is positioned between the first contact portion and the second contact portion. And in a position between the first contact portion and the second contact portion, the buffer portion is movable between a position away from the holding portion and a position in contact with the holding portion by elastic deformation of the buffer portion.

One of the aspects of the disclosure according to the present application is a packing unit including a packed object, and a packing member attached to the packed object. In the packing unit, the packing member includes an accommodating portion that accommodates at least part of the packed object, a holding portion configured to hold the packed object, and a buffer portion that projects from the holding portion toward an outer side of the accommodating portion. The buffer portion is configured to form a closed loop together with the holding portion. The buffer portion is bent so as to form a first projection that projects toward the outer side of the accommodating portion, a second projection that projects toward the outer side of the accommodating portion, and a recessed portion recessed toward an inner side of the accommodating portion. In a circumferential direction of the closed loop, the recessed portion is positioned between the first projection and the second projection. In a position where the recessed portion is formed, the buffer portion is movable between a position away from the holding portion and a position in contact with the holding portion by elastic deformation of the buffer portion.

One of the aspects of the disclosure according to the present application is a packing unit including a packed object, and a packing member attached to the packed object. IN the packing unit, the packing member includes an accommodating portion that accommodates at least part of the packed object, a holding portion configured to hold the packed object, and a buffer portion that projects from the holding portion toward an outer side of the accommodating portion. The buffer portion is configured to form a closed loop together with the holding portion. The buffer portion is capable of contacting a virtual plane positioned on an outer side of the closed loop with a first contact portion and a second contact portion, the buffer portion including an opposition portion that opposes the virtual plane with a gap in between. In a circumferential direction of the closed loop, the second contact portion is positioned at a position away from the first contact portion, the opposition portion is positioned between the first contact portion and the second contact portion. In a position between the first contact portion and the second contact portion, the buffer portion is movable between a position away from the holding portion and a position in contact with the holding portion by elastic deformation of the buffer portion.

The present disclosure can provide a packing member that is capable of improving the buffer performance without increasing the size of the buffer portion in the height direction. The present disclosure can also be applied to the packing unit including the packed object and the packing members attached to the packed object.

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

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a packing container and the packing unit according to a first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge according to the first embodiment. Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the packing container and the packing unit according to the first embodiment. Fig. 5 is a perspective view of packing members according to the first embodiment. Fig. 6 is an enlarged view of a buffer portion according to the first embodiment. Fig. 7A is an explanatory drawing of the packing member according to the first embodiment. Fig. 7B is an explanatory drawing of a packing member according to a comparative example. Fig. 8 is an enlarged view of the buffer portion according to the first embodiment in a deformed state. Fig. 9 illustrates conceptual graphs comparing buffer performance of the packing member of the comparative example and that of the packing member according to the first embodiment. Fig. 10A is a perspective view of the packing member according to the first embodiment. Fig. 10B is a side view of the packing member according to the first embodiment. Fig. 11A is an enlarged view of a right surface buffer portion according to the first embodiment. Fig. 11B is an enlarged view of a right surface buffer portion according to the first embodiment. Fig. 12 is an enlarged view of the right surface buffer portion according to the first embodiment in a deformed state. Fig. 13 is a perspective view of a packing member according to a second embodiment.

Hereinafter, examples of embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that in principle, the dimensions, the materials, and the shapes of the components, the relative configuration of the components, and the like that are described in the following embodiments are to be appropriately altered based on the configuration of the device to which the present disclosure is applied and on various conditions, and the scope of the present disclosure is not intended to be limited by the following embodiments.

First Embodiment

An embodiment of a packing container according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 12.

Overall Configuration of Image Forming Apparatus

Referring to Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, an image forming apparatus to and from which cartridges serving as packed objects are attached and detached will be described.

Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge according to the embodiment. The above cross-sectional views are cross-sectional views that are orthogonal to a rotational axis of a photosensitive drum described later.

An example of a color image forming apparatus from which four cartridges are detachable is described in the following embodiment as the image forming apparatus. However, the number of cartridges mounted in the image forming apparatus is not limited to the above number. The number is set appropriately as needed. Furthermore, in the embodiment described below, the printer is described as an example of one of the modes of the image forming apparatus. However, the present disclosure is not limited to a printer. For example, the present disclosure can be applied to other image forming apparatuses such as a copying machine and a facsimile machine, or may be applied to other image forming apparatuses such as a multi-functional apparatus that combines the functions of the above image forming apparatuses.

As illustrated in Fig. 2, an image forming apparatus 1 is a color laser printer employing an electrophotographic process and forms a color image on a recording medium S. The image forming apparatus 1 is a process cartridge system in which cartridges are detachably mounted in an apparatus main body 2 and in which a color image is formed on a recording medium S.

Examples of the recording medium S include recording paper, label paper, an OHP sheet, and fabric. Other than an exposure device LB, a transfer device such as a transfer roller 10, and a fixing device 11, the apparatus main body 2 includes a feeding device 14 that feeds the recording medium S.

Furthermore, first to fourth cartridges P (PY, PM, PC, and PK) each include a photosensitive drum (an electrophotographic photoconductor) 4 serving as an image bearing member that bears an electrostatic latent image, a charging roller (a charging member) 5, and a cleaning blade (a cleaning member) 7. The photosensitive drum 4 rotates in a direction of an arrow in Fig. 3. Each of the cartridges P includes a developing roller (a developer bearing member) 6 that bears toner serving as developer and that supplies toner to the electrostatic latent image born on the photosensitive drum 4 (Fig. 3). The photosensitive drum 4 rotates in a direction of an arrow in Fig. 3.

By having a voltage applied to the charging roller 5 from a power supply provided in the apparatus main body 2, the charging roller 5 uniformly charges a surface of the photosensitive drum 4. Furthermore, the exposure device LB projects, according to image data, a laser beam L on each charged photosensitive drum 4 and forms, according to the image data, an electrostatic latent image on each photosensitive drum 4. The developing roller 6 develops the electrostatic latent image with toner (developer) and forms a developed image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 4. The developed images formed on the surfaces of the photosensitive drums 4 in the first to fourth cartridges P (PY, PM, PC, and PK) are primarily transferred sequentially onto an intermediate transfer belt (intermediate transfer body) 3 and color developed images are formed on the intermediate transfer belt 3.

Meanwhile, the recording mediums S are separated and fed sheet by sheet while synchronizing with the formation of the developed images. Subsequently, the recording medium S is conveyed to the transfer roller 10 serving as the transfer device. The transfer roller 10 is biased so as to be in contact with a surface of the intermediate transfer belt 3. Subsequently, the recording medium S is passed through a nip portion formed with the intermediate transfer belt 3 and the transfer roller 10. In the above, by applying a voltage having a polarity opposite to that of the developed image to the transfer roller 10, the color developed images formed on the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 3 are transferred onto the recording medium S.

The recording medium S to which the developed images have been transferred is conveyed to the fixing device 11. Subsequently, heat and pressure are applied to the recording medium S in the fixing device 11 and the developed images transferred to the recording medium S are fixed. With the above, an image is formed on the recording medium S. Subsequently, the recording medium S is conveyed and is discharged to the discharge portion 12.

Note that the toner remaining on the surfaces of the photosensitive drums 4 after the transfer is cleaned with cleaning blades 7. Subsequently, an image will be formable by charging the surfaces of the photosensitive drums 4 once again with the charging rollers 5.

Cartridge

Cartridges as an example of the packed objects will be described.

In the apparatus main body 2, the four cartridges P (PY, PM, PC, and PK), that is, a first cartridge PY, a second cartridge PM, a third cartridge PC, and a fourth cartridge PK are arranged in a horizontal direction. Each of the first to fourth cartridges P (PY, PM, PC, and PK) has a similar electrophotographic processing mechanism, and has a different toner color. Rotational driving force is transmitted from a drive output unit (not shown) of the apparatus main body 2 to the first to fourth cartridges P (PY, PM, PC, and PK). Furthermore, voltages (charging voltages, developing voltages, and the like) are supplied to the first to fourth cartridges P (PY, PM, PC, and PK) from a power supply provided in the apparatus main body 2.

As illustrated in Fig. 3, the first to fourth cartridges P (PY, PM, PC, and PK) of the present embodiment include the photosensitive drums 4, the charging rollers 5 serving as processing members acting on the photosensitive drums 4, and cleaning units 8 including cleaning blades 7. Furthermore, the first to fourth cartridges P (PY, PM, PC, and PK) include developing devices 9 including developing rollers 6 that develop the electrostatic latent images on the photosensitive drums 4. Each cleaning unit 8 and the corresponding developing device 9 are joined to each other.

The first cartridge PY contains yellow (Y) toner inside a developer frame 13 and forms a yellow toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 4. The second cartridge PM contains magenta (M) toner inside a developer frame 13 and forms a magenta toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 4. The third cartridge PC contains cyan (C) toner inside a developer frame 13 and forms a cyan toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 4. The fourth cartridge PK contains black (K) toner inside a developer frame 13 and forms a black toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 4.

Configuration of a Packing Container

Referring to Fig. 1 and Fig. 4, the packing container including the packing members that are attached to the cartridge P will be described.

Note that in the present embodiment, the packing container includes the packing members that are attached to the packed object. The packing container may, in some cases, further include a packaging box that accommodates the packing members, and a storing bag that accommodates the packed object. Furthermore, a unit including the packing members and the packed object that is packed in the packing members is referred to as a packing unit. The packing unit, in some cases, may include the packaging box and the storing bag.

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of the packing container and the packing unit according to the present embodiment and is a drawing illustrating the cartridge P, serving as the packed object, and packing members BL and BR. Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the packing container and the packing unit according to the present embodiment and is a drawing illustrating a state in which the packing unit including the cartridge P serving as the packed object and the packing members BL and BR is accommodated in a packaging box A.

The cartridge P, in a state in which the packing members BL and BR are mounted thereon, is packed inside the packaging box A. A corrugated board in a box form, or the like is used as the packaging box A. Note that in order to protect the cartridge P from dust and the like, the cartridge P may be accommodated in a housing bag. A face of the packaging box A is an openable and closable lid and Fig. 4 illustrates a state in which the lid is open.

As illustrated in Fig. 1, each of the packing members BL and BR is attached to a corresponding one of two end portions (a first end portion and a second end portion) of the cartridge P in a longitudinal direction (an arrow LD direction) of the cartridge P. When the cartridge P is accommodated inside the packaging box A, the packing members BL and BR are interposed between the cartridge P and the packaging box A and are configured so that the cartridge P and the packaging box A are not in contact with each other directly. In particular, in a case in which the photosensitive drum 4 or the developing roller 6 is exposed toward the outside of the cartridge P, buffer portions described later restrict an exposed portion of the photosensitive drum 4 or the developing roller 6 from coming in contact with an inner wall surface of the packaging box A.

In the present embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the cartridge P is the same as an axis (a rotational axis) direction of the photosensitive drum 4. Furthermore, the longitudinal direction of the cartridge P is the same as an axis (a rotational axis) direction of the developing roller 6.

The cartridge P includes a handle PH in a portion (a middle portion in the present embodiment) thereof in the longitudinal direction. With respect to a direction being orthogonal to the longitudinal direction, a cross-sectional shape of the handle PH and cross-sectional shapes of portions on both sides of the handle PH are different. The handle PH may have a surface that has a shape that prevents slipping when the user is holding the handle PH.

In a state in which the packing members BL and BR are attached to the cartridge P, the handle PH is, in the longitudinal direction, positioned between the packing member BL and the packing member BR. Furthermore, the handle PH is disposed so as to be exposed through an opening that is formed when the lid of the packaging box A is opened.

Packing Members

Referring to Fig. 5, a description of the packing members BL and BR will be given.

Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the packing members according to the present embodiment. As illustrated in Fig. 5, the packing members BL and BR each include portions (holding portions and buffer portions) described below that are formed integrally.

As illustrated in Fig. 5, the packing member BL includes an accommodating portion BL-A configured to accommodate at least part of the cartridge P. As described later, the packing member BL and the packing member BR have shapes symmetrical to each other, and the packing member BR also includes an accommodating portion BR-A.

The packing members BL and BR include the holding portions configured to hold the cartridge P accommodated in the accommodating portions BL-A and BR-A, and the buffer portions that are projected toward the outer side of the accommodating portions BL-A and BR-A from the holding portions and that have flexibility. In the present embodiment, the packing members BL and BR include a plurality of holding portions and a plurality of buffer portions. The above will be described hereinafter.

The packing members BL and BR include top surface holding portions BL-1 and BR-1 that hold the cartridge P, and top surface buffer portions BL-2 and BR-2 disposed on surfaces opposite to surfaces of the top surface holding portions BL-1 and BR-1 that hold the cartridge P. The packing members BL and BR include back surface holding portions BL-3 and BR-3 that hold the cartridge P, and back surface buffer portions BL-4 and BR-4 disposed on surfaces opposite to surfaces of the back surface holding portions BL-3 and BR-3 that hold the cartridge P. The packing members BL and BR include bottom surface holding portions BL-5 and BR-5 that hold the cartridge P, and bottom surface buffer portions BL-6 and BR-6 disposed on surfaces opposite to surfaces of the bottom surface holding portions BL-5 and BR-5 that hold the cartridge P. The packing members BL and BR include front surface holding portions BL-7 and BR-7 that hold the cartridge P, and front surface buffer portions BL-8 and BR-8 disposed on surfaces opposite to surfaces of the front surface holding portions BL-7 and BR-7 that hold the cartridge P. The packing members BL and BR include a left surface holding portion BL-9 and a right surface holding portion BR-9 that hold the cartridge P, and left surface buffer portions BL-10 and right surface buffer portions BR-10 disposed on surfaces opposite to surfaces of the left surface holding portion BL-9 and the right surface holding portion BR-9 that hold the cartridge P. By disposing the buffer portions on the surfaces opposite to the surfaces that hold the cartridge P, a change in positional relationship between the cartridge P and the holding portions can be suppressed even when the buffer portions become deformed. Note that the holding portions are portions configured to contact the cartridge P accommodated in the accommodating portions BL-A and BR-A.

Since the packing member BL and the packing member BR have shapes symmetrical to each other, a configuration included in one of the packing member is also included in the other packing member in a similar manner. Accordingly, in principle, either one of the packing members will be described in the following description and description of the other packing member will be omitted.

The top surface holding portion BL-1 and the bottom surface holding portion BL-5 described above oppose each other with the accommodating portion BL-A interposed therebetween. The back surface holding portion BL-3 and the front surface holding portion BL-7 oppose each other with the accommodating portion BL-A interposed therebetween. The back surface holding portion BL-3 and the front surface holding portion BL-7 each extend in a direction that intersects the top surface holding portion BL-1 and the bottom surface holding portion BL-5. The above holding portions are portions that hold the cartridge P in a direction that intersects the longitudinal direction of the cartridge P. In other words, the above holding portions are each a portion disposed between the cartridge P and the corresponding buffer portions in the direction that intersects the longitudinal direction of the cartridge P.

The left surface holding portion BL-9 is a lateral surface holding portion that holds a lateral surface of the cartridge P on one side in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge P. The left surface holding portion BL-9 holds the cartridge P in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge P together with the right surface holding portion BR-9. In other words, the left surface holding portion BL-9 is a portion disposed between the left surface buffer portions BL-10 and the cartridge P in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge P.

Desirably, each buffer portion endures repetitive bending as well. Accordingly, an internal structure of each buffer portion desirably has a solid structure. Furthermore, a material of each buffer portion is, desirably, thermoplastic resin. Furthermore, the component with the largest amount is, more desirably, polypropylene since polypropylene has a strong characteristic against repetitive bending. However, the internal structure and the material of each buffer portion are not limited to the above.

In the present embodiment, the packing members BR and BL are each formed by injection molding in an integral manner, and the material of each holding portion is similar to that of the buffer portions.

Structure of Buffer Portions

Referring hereinafter to Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, structures of the buffer portions will be described with the top surface buffer portion BR-2 as an example. Note that the back surface buffer portion BR-4, the bottom surface buffer portion BR-6, and the front surface buffer portion BR-8 have structures similar to that of the top surface buffer portion BR-2.

Fig. 6 is an enlarged view of the buffer portion (the top surface buffer portion BR-2) according to the present embodiment. Fig. 6 is a drawing viewed in an axis direction of a closed loop described later.

As illustrated in Fig. 6, the top surface holding portion BR-1 is provided so as to connect a first end and a second end of the top surface buffer portion BR-2 to each other. In other words, the top surface buffer portion BR-2 is connected to the top surface holding portion BR-1 with a first connection portion BR-2C1 and a second connection portion BR-2C2 and forms a closed loop together with the top surface holding portion BR-1. Note that the closed loop herein indicates a shape having a hollow portion in an inner portion thereof when viewed in the axis direction of the loop (the same as a generatrix direction depicting the loop). In other words, the top surface buffer portion BR-2 and the top surface holding portion BR-1 form an opening BR-2B open in the axis direction of the loop. Note that the axis direction of the loop in the present embodiment is a direction orthogonal to an X-axis and a Y-axis illustrated in Fig. 6. Furthermore, on the inner side of the loop, the top surface buffer portion BR-2 opposes the top surface holding portion BR-1.

If an independent holding portion is each connected to the first end and the second end of the top surface holding portion BR-1, when the top surface buffer portion BR-2 becomes deformed, the gap between the holding portions becomes larger. On the other hand, in the configuration of the present embodiment, the top surface holding portion BR-1 can reliably hold the cartridge P when the top surface buffer portion BR-2 is deformed.

Note that the top surface buffer portion BR-2 is a flat spring. The axis direction of the loop is a width direction of the top surface buffer portion BR-2 is, and a direction orthogonal to a circumferential direction of the loop and the width direction of the top surface buffer portion BR-2 is a thickness direction of the top surface buffer portion BR-2. The top surface buffer portion BR-2 has a shape bent in the thickness direction. Note that bent herein indicates a state in which the top surface buffer portion BR-2 is bent in a state (a natural state) in which the top surface buffer portion BR-2 is not receiving any load. Note that a thickness of the top surface buffer portion BR-2 in the present embodiment is 0.5 to 2.0 mm. Specifically, the top surface buffer portion BR-2 is bent so that three projections, namely, a projection (a first projection) BR-2-1, a projection (a third projection) BR-2-3, and a projection (a second projection) BR-2-5 that project toward the outer side of the accommodating portion BR-A are formed. In other words, the top surface buffer portion BR-2 is bent so that the projection BR-2-1, the projection BR-2-3, and the projection BR-2-5 that project in a direction distancing away from the top surface holding portion BR-1 (in a direction extending toward the outer side of the loop) are formed. Furthermore, the top surface buffer portion BR-2 is bent so curved surfaces are included between the first connection portion BR-2C1 and the projection BR-2-1 and between the second connection portion BR-2C2 and the projection BR-2-5. With the above, deformation of the top surface buffer portion BR-2 described later is facilitated and the buffer performance of the top surface buffer portion BR-2 is improved.

The projection BR-2-3 is positioned between the projection BR-2-1 and the projection BR-2-5 in the circumferential direction of the loop. Furthermore, on the outer side of the loop, the projection BR-2-3 is closer to the top surface holding portion BR-1 than the projection BR-2-1 and the projection BR-2-5. In other words, in a portion on the outer side of the loop, the projection BR-2-3 is positioned between a plane that is in contact with the projection BR-2-1 and the projection BR-2-5, and the top surface holding portion BR-1.

Furthermore, the top surface buffer portion BR-2 is bent so that recessed portions recessed toward the accommodating portion BR-A are formed. The recessed portions can be called opposite direction projections that project toward the accommodating portion BR-A in a direction opposite to that of the projections described above.

In the present embodiment, the number of recessed portions is two. A recessed portion BR-2-2 is positioned between the projection BR-2-1 and the projection BR-2-3 in the circumferential direction of the loop. Furthermore, a recessed portion BR-2-4 is positioned between the projections BR-2-3 and BR-2-5 in the circumferential direction of the loop.

In other words, the top surface buffer portion BR-2 is bent so that the recessed portion BR-2-2 and the recessed portion BR-2-4 recessed toward a direction approaching the top surface holding portion BR-1 (in a direction extending toward the inner side of the loop) are formed.

On the inner side of the loop, the recessed portions BR-2-2 and BR-2-4 are closer to the top surface holding portion BR-1 than the projections BR-2-1, BR-2-3, and BR-2-5. Furthermore, on the inner side of the loop, there are gaps between the recessed portions BR-2-2 and BR-2-4 and the top surface holding portion BR-1. In other words, there are gaps between the top surface buffer portion BR-2 and the top surface holding portion BR-1 at positions where the recessed portions BR-2-2 and BR-2-4 are formed.

In the present embodiment, the recessed portions BR-2-2 and BR-2-4 are allowed to be displaced on the inner side of the loop to positions abutting against the top surface holding portion BR-1 with elastic deformation of the top surface buffer portion BR-2. After the recessed portions BR-2-2 and BR-2-4 are displaced to positions abutting against the top surface holding portion BR-1, the recessed portions BR-2-2 and BR-2-4 are allowed to be displaced to positions away from the top surface holding portion BR-1 with the elasticity of the top surface buffer portion BR-2. In other words, the top surface buffer portion BR-2 can, in the position where the recessed portions BR-2-2 and BR-2-4 are formed, move between a position away from the top surface holding portion BR-1 and a position abutting against the top surface holding portion BR-1. The sizes of the gaps between the recessed portions BR-2-2 and BR-2-4, and the top surface holding portion BR-1, the shape of the top surface buffer portion BR-2, and the material are determined so that such elastic deformation is allowed.

The top surface buffer portion BR-2 is structured to absorb the impact with the deformation of the projections BR-2-1, BR-2-3, and BR-2-5 and the recessed portions BR-2-2 and BR-2-4, when the packed object is dropped.

Note that the numbers of the projections and the recessed portions described above are not limited to the numbers described above. It is only sufficient that there are at least two projections and at least one recessed portion. The above can be appropriately set according to the buffer distance and the weight of the packed object.

The bent shape of the top surface buffer portion BR-2 can be depicted in the following manner. When viewed in the axis direction of the loop, the top surface buffer portion BR-2 is capable of coming in contact with a virtual plane positioned on the outer side of the loop at two contact portions (a first contact portion and a second contact portion) at the least that are away from each other. In other words, in the circumferential direction of the loop, the second contact portion and the first contact portion are away from each other. In the top surface buffer portion BR-2, a portion of the projection BR-2-1 corresponds to the first contact portion, and a portion of the projection BR-2-5 corresponds to the second contact portion. As described above, with the elastic deformation of the top surface buffer portion BR-2, the top surface buffer portion BR-2 can move between a position away from the top surface holding portion BR-1 and a position abutting against the top surface holding portion BR-1 in the position between the first contact portion and the second contact portion. Furthermore, the portion between the projection BR-2-1 and the projection BR-2-5 in the circumferential direction of the loop is an opposition portion that opposes the virtual plane with a gap in between. In other words, in the circumferential direction of the loop, the opposition portion is positioned between the first contact portion and the second contact portion. In the top surface buffer portion BR-2, the recessed portions BR-2-2 and BR-2-4 are included in the opposition portion. Furthermore, in the top surface buffer portion BR-2, the opposition portion is bent so that a portion thereof approaches the virtual plane. The above portion is the projection BR-2-3. Note that the number of contact portions in contact with the virtual plane may be more than two and the number of opposition portions may be more than one. In other words, the projection BR-2-3 projects toward the virtual plane. Furthermore, in the circumferential direction of the loop, the projection BR-2-3 is positioned between the first contact portion and the second contact portion. In the present embodiment, the projection BR-2-3 opposes the virtual plane with a gap interposed in between. In other words, the projection BR-2-3 is formed in the opposition portion.

Outline of Buffering with Buffer Portion

Referring hereinafter to Fig. 7A and Fig. 7B, an outline of the buffering according to the present embodiment will be described.

Fig. 7A and Fig. 7B are drawings describing buffering of the packing member according to the present embodiment and buffering of the packing member according to a comparative example. Fig. 7A is a drawing illustrating, as a configuration according to the present embodiment, an example of a packing member having a plurality of projections. Fig. 7B is a drawing illustrating, as a configuration according to the comparative example, an example of a packing member having a single projection.

Note that a buffer portion BM-2 described hereinafter is also an example of a buffer portion such as the top surface buffer portion BR-2 or the like. In other words, each of the buffer portions of the packing members BL and BR can be replaced by the buffer portion BM-2 described hereinafter.

The configuration illustrated in Fig. 7A is a configuration described in the top surface buffer portion BR-2 in which the number of projections is two and the number of recessed portions is one. Fig. 7B is a drawing in which the buffer portion in Fig. 7A is replaced with a configuration serving as the comparative example. A material of the above is the same as that of the top surface buffer portion BR-2.

As illustrated in Fig. 7A, a packing member BM includes an accommodating portion BM-A configured to accommodate at least part of the cartridge P, and a holding portion BM-1 that holds the cartridge P accommodated in the accommodating portion BM-A. Since the configuration of the above is the same as those of the packing members BR and BL, a detailed description thereof will be omitted. Furthermore, the packing member BM includes the buffer portion BM-2 that projects from the holding portion BM-1 toward an outer side of the accommodating portion BM-A.

As illustrated in Fig. 7A, the holding portion BM-1 is provided so as to connect a first end and a second end of the buffer portion BM-2 to each other. In other words, the buffer portion BM-2 is connected to the holding portion BM-1 with a first connection portion BM-2C1 and a second connection portion BM-2C2 and forms a closed loop together with the holding portion BM-1. The buffer portion BM-2 and the holding portion BM-1 form an opening BM-2B open in the axis direction of the loop. Note that the axis direction of the loop is a direction orthogonal to an X-axis and a Y-axis illustrated in Fig. 7A.

The buffer portion BM-2 in a natural state receiving no load has a bent shape. The buffer portion BM-2 is bent so that two projections, namely, a projection (a first projection) BM-2-1 and a projection (a second projection) BM-2-3 that project toward the outer side of the accommodating portion BM-A are formed. The buffer portion BM-2 is bent so that a recessed portion BM-2-2 recessed toward an inner side of the accommodating portion BM-A is formed. In other words, the buffer portion BM-2 is bent so that the projection BM-2-1 and the projection BM-2-3 that project in a direction distancing away from the holding portion BM-1 (a direction extending toward an outer side of the loop) are formed. The buffer portion BM-2 is bent so that the recessed portion BM-2-2 recessed toward a direction approaching the holding portion BM-1 (a direction extending toward the inner side of the loop) is formed.

The recessed portion BM-2-2 is positioned between the projection BM-2-1 and the projection BM-2-3 in the circumferential direction of the loop. A gap is formed on an inner side of the loop (an inner side of the opening BM-2B) and between the recessed portion BM-2-2 and the holding portion BM-1. In other words, there is a gap between the buffer portion BM-2 and the holding portion BM-1 at a position where the recessed portion BM-2-2 is formed.

Furthermore, similar to the top surface buffer portion BR-2, the recessed portion BM-2-2 is allowed to be displaced to a position abutting against the holding portion BM-1 with the elastic deformation of the buffer portion BM-2. After the recessed portion BM-2-2 is displaced to the position abutting against the holding portion BM-1, the recessed portion BM-2-2 is allowed to be displaced to a position away from the holding portion BM-1 with the elasticity of the buffer portion BM-2. In other words, the buffer portion BM-2 can, in the position where the recessed portion BM-2-2 is formed, move between a position away from the holding portion BM-1 and a position abutting against the holding portion BM-1.

The bent shape of the buffer portion BM-2 can be depicted in the following manner. When viewed in the axis direction of the loop, the buffer portion BM-2 is capable of coming in contact with a virtual plane positioned on the outer side of the loop at two contact portions (a first contact portion and a second contact portion) at the least that are away from each other. In other words, in the circumferential direction of the loop, the second contact portion is away from the first contact portion. A portion of the projection BM-2-1 corresponds to the first contact portion, and a portion of the projection BM-2-3 corresponds to the second contact portion. As described above, with the elastic deformation of the buffer portion BM-2, the buffer portion BM-2 can move between a position away from the holding portion BM-1 and a position abutting against the holding portion BM-1 in the position between the first contact portion and the second contact portion. Furthermore, in the circumferential direction of the loop, a portion between the projection BM-2-1 and the projection BM-2-3 is an opposition portion opposing the virtual plane with a gap interposed in between. In other words, in the circumferential direction of the loop, the opposition portion is positioned between the first contact portion and the second contact portion. In the present embodiment, the recessed portion BM-2-2 is included in the opposition portion.

As illustrated in Fig. 7B, a packing member BN serving as the comparative example includes an accommodating portion BN-A configured to accommodate the cartridge P, and a holding portion BN-1 that holds the cartridge P accommodated in the accommodating portion BN-A. Furthermore, the packing member BN includes a buffer portion BN-2 that projects from the holding portion BN-1 toward an outer side of the accommodating portion BN-A.

As illustrated in Fig. 7B, the holding portion BN-1 is provided so as to connect a first end and a second end of the buffer portion BN-2 to each other. In other words, the buffer portion BN-2 is connected to the holding portion BN-1 with a first connection portion BN-2C1 and a second connection portion BN-2C2 and forms a closed loop together with the holding portion BN-1. The buffer portion BN-2 includes a single projection BN-2-1 that projects toward the outer side of the accommodating portion BN-A.

As illustrated in Fig. 7B, a case in which the buffer portion BN-2 receives force F1 from the inner wall surface of the packaging box A while the packing member BN and the cartridge P are accommodated in the packaging box A will be considered. In the above, a portion between the projection BN-2-1 and the first connection portion BN-2C1 and a portion between the projection BN-2-1 and the second connection portion BN-2C2 in the buffer portion BN-2 are deformed.

Meanwhile, as illustrated in Fig. 7A, a case in which the buffer portion BM-2 receives force F1 from the inner wall surface of the packaging box A while the packing member BM and the cartridge P are accommodated in the packaging box A will be considered.

In the above, a portion between the projection BM-2-1 and the first connection portion BM-2C1 and a portion between the projection BM-2-3 and the second connection portion BM-2C2 in the buffer portion BM-2 are deformed. Furthermore, since the recessed portion BM-2-2 is provided, the buffer portion BM-2 is deformed in a portion between the projection BM-2-1 and the projection BM-2-3 as well. In other words, compared to the configuration of the buffer portion BN-2, the portion that can be deformed when receiving an impact is increased in the buffer portion BM-2.

In other words, in the buffer portion BM-2, since the shape of the recessed portion BM-2-2 changes, the projection BM-2-1 and the projection BM-2-3 are also displaced in a direction intersecting the force F1. Accordingly, the force F1 can be released in a direction intersecting the force F1.

Furthermore, timings at which the deformation reaches its peak in a portion (a first intermediate portion) between the projection BM-2-1 and the first connection portion BM-2C1 and in a portion between the projection BM-2-1 and the projection BM-2-3 are different. Furthermore, timings at which the deformation reaches its peak in a portion (a second intermediate portion) between the projection BM-2-3 and the second connection portion BM-2C2 and in the portion between the projection BM-2-1 and the projection BM-2-3 are different. On the other hand, the timings at which the deformation reaches its peak in the portion between the projection BM-2-1 and the first connection portion BM-2C1 and in the portion between the projection BM-2-3 and the second connection portion BM-2C2 are substantially the same.

In other words, during the time until the force F1 is absorbed, while there is one peak in the deformation of the buffer portion BN-2, they are a plurality of peaks in the deformation of the buffer portion BM-2. In other words, the packing member BM is capable of absorbing the force F1 over a plurality of times.

In a configuration with a single projection, buffering is performed in only the Y-axis direction (a compression direction). One method of improving the buffer performance in such a configuration is enlarging the buffer portion in the Y-axis direction and obtaining a long buffer distance.

However, in the configuration illustrated in the present embodiment, since there are a plurality of projections, the buffer portion can perform buffering in the X-axis direction that is a direction intersecting the Y-axis direction. Accordingly, compared with the configuration with a single projection, the buffer performance can be improved even without enlarging the buffer portion in the Y-axis direction.

Detail of Buffering with Buffer Portion

Referring hereinafter to Fig. 6 and Fig. 8, buffering with the buffer portion will be described further with the top surface buffer portion BR-2 as an example.

Fig. 8 is a drawing illustrating a state in which the top surface buffer portion BR-2 has been deformed.

When the top surface buffer portion BR-2 situated downwards in the gravitational direction is dropped, the top surface buffer portion BR-2 abutting against the inner wall surface of the packaging box A and having the force F1 applied thereto from the direction of the arrow becomes deformed.

In the above, each of the projections BR-2-1, BR-2-3, and BR-2-5 and the recessed portions BR-2-2 and BR-2-4 is bent and absorbs the impact of the fall.

In other words, the projection BR-2-1 and the projection BR-2-5 abut against the inner wall surface of the packaging box A and receive the force F1. Furthermore, deformation occurs in the portion between the projection BR-2-1 and the first connection portion BR-2C1, and in the portion between the projection BR-2-5 and the second connection portion BR-2C2. Furthermore, deformation also occurs in the recessed portion BR-2-2 between the projection BR-2-1 and the projection BR-2-3, and in the recessed portion BR-2-4 between the projection BR-2-5 and the projection BR-2-3.

Since the recessed portion BR-2-2 and the recessed portion BR-2-4 are included in the top surface buffer portion BR-2, the portion that can be deformed is further increased compared with the above-described shape (the buffer portion BM-2) having a single recessed portion.

Furthermore, the top surface buffer portion BR-2 is configured so that when bent, the recessed portion BR-2-2 comes into contact with the top surface holding portion BR-1. By having the recessed portion BR-2-2 and the top surface holding portion BR-1 come into contact with each other, the recessed portion BR-2-2 is pulled by the projections BR-2-1 and BR-2-3 that are adjacent to each other and the release of force is facilitated not only in the Y-axis direction but also in the X-axis direction. By having the recessed portion BR-2-4 and the top surface holding portion BR-1 come into contact with each other, the recessed portion BR-2-4 is, in a similar manner, pulled by the projections BR-2-3 and BR-2-5 that are adjacent to each other; accordingly, the release of force is facilitated not only in the Y-axis direction but also in the X-axis direction. Furthermore, since the above deformation is within the range of the elastic deformation of the top surface buffer portion BR-2, even when receiving an impact repeatedly, the top surface buffer portion BR-2 can endure the plurality of impacts. Furthermore, the recessed portion BR-2-2 and the recessed portion BR-2-4 coming in contact with the top surface holding portion BR-1 creates a state in which three leg portions that absorbs the impact are formed.

Heights of Projections

Referring next to Fig. 6 and Fig. 9, heights of the projections of the top surface buffer portion BR-2 will be described.

In the present embodiment, in a direction orthogonal to a straight line connecting the first connection portion BR-2C1 and the second connection portion BR-2C2, a projection height of the projection BR-2-3 is lower than a height of the projections BR-2-1 and BR-2-5 by height t. In other words, the projection BR-2-3 is positioned between a plane that is in contact with the projections BR-2-1 and BR-2-5, and the top surface holding portion BR-1.

By having the projection height of the projection BR-2-3 be lower than that of the projections BR-2-1 and BR-2-5 by height t, timings at which the projection BR-2-3 and at which the projections BR-2-1 and BR-2-5 come in contact with the contact surfaces such as the inner wall surface of the packaging box A and the ground can be changed. With the above, the timing at which the projection BR-2-3 starts bending and the timings at which the projection BR-2-1 and the projection BR-2-5 start bending can be changed. As a result, the timings at which the projection BR-2-3 and the projection BR-2-1 absorbs the impact and the timing at which the projection BR-2-5 absorbs the impact can be shifted.

Fig. 9 illustrates conceptual graphs that compare the buffer performance of the packing member of the comparative example and the top surface buffer portion BR-2 of the present embodiment. In Fig. 9, the axis of ordinates is impact G applied to the packed object and the axis of abscissas is time T.

As described above, in a case in which there is one projection that absorbs the impact, there is one peak, and the impact value is high. Conversely, according to the configuration of the present embodiment, there are a plurality of peaks and buffering can be performed over a long time; accordingly, it is possible to make the peak of the impact low.

Angles of Buffer Portion

Referring next to Fig. 6, angles between the holding portion and the buffer portions will be described.

As illustrated in Fig. 6, lines S1 and S2 are drawn horizontally in the X-axis direction from the top surface holding portion BR-1. The lines S1 and S2 are on an extension of a straight line S0 connecting the first connection portion BR-2C1 and the second connection portion BR-2C2 to each other.

In the above, the portion (the first intermediate portion) between the first connection portion BR-2C1 and the projection BR-2-1 includes an inclined surface (a first inclined surface) BR-2D1, and on the outer side of the loop, an angle α formed between the line S1 and the first inclined surface BR-2D1 is 90° or less. Similarly, the portion (the second intermediate portion) between the second connection portion BR-2C2 and the projection BR-2-5 includes an inclined surface (a second inclined surface) BR-2D2, and on the other side of the loop, an angle β formed between the line S2 and the second inclined surface BR-2D2 is 90° or less.

Accordingly, on the inner side of the loop (the inner side of the opening BR-2B), an angle formed by the straight line S0 and the first inclined surface BR-2D1 is an obtuse angle. On the inner side of the loop, an angle formed between the straight line S0 and the second inclined surface BR-2D2 is an obtuse angle.

With the above, when absorbing the impact of the fall, the force tries to become released in an X1 direction in the projection BR-2-1 and in an X2 direction in the projection BR-2-5. Accordingly, the bending of the projection BR-2-1 is facilitated in the X1 direction and the bending of the projection BR-2-5 is facilitated in the X2 direction. Furthermore, the projection BR-2-3 can be pulled reliably by the projection BR-2-1 and the projection BR-2-5; accordingly, a stable buffer performance can be obtained.

Note that the inclined surface such as that described above may be provided in either one of the first intermediate portion in the second intermediate portion.

Reinforcing Portion

Referring next to Fig. 10A, Fig. 10B, Fig. 11A, Fig. 11B, and Fig. 12, the packing member BR will be described further.

Fig. 10A is a perspective view of the packing member BR, and Fig. 10B is a side view viewed from H in Fig. 10A. Fig. 11A and 11B are enlarged views of the right surface buffer portion BR-10. Fig. 12 is a drawing illustrating a state in which the right surface buffer portion BR-10 has been deformed.

In the present embodiment, two right surface buffer portions BR-10 are provided on the right surface holding portion BR-9, in which each right surface buffer portion BR-10 includes a projection (a first projection) BR-10-1 and a projection (a second projection) BR-10-2. A recessed portion BR-10-3 is included between the projection BR-10-1 and the projection BR-10-2.

The right surface buffer portions BR-10 is connected to the right surface holding portion BR-9 with a first connection portion BR-10-C1 and a second connection portion BR-10-C2 and together forms a closed loop. In other words, the right surface holding portion BR-9 is connected to the first connection portion BR-10-C1 and the second connection portion BR-10-C2 of the right surface buffer portions BR-10. Furthermore, the right surface holding portion BR-9 and each right surface buffer portion BR-10 form openings BR-10B open in the axis direction. In the above, the axis direction of the loops of the right surface buffer portions BR-10 and the axis direction of the loops of the top surface buffer portion BR-2 and the like intersect each other.

Meanwhile, the packing member BR is a component integrally molded by injection molding. In order to form the opening BR-2B, the packing member BR is molded while having arrows-J direction in Fig. 10B as the mold releasing direction.

Accordingly, different from the other buffer portions and the holding portions, holes BR-E are formed in the right surface holding portion BR-9 so as to form an inner side of the loop of the right surface buffer portions BR-10. As a result, on the inner side of the loop, the right surface buffer portions BR-10 do not oppose the right surface holding portion BR-9.

Now, lines S3 and S4 are drawn horizontally in the X-axis direction from the right surface holding portion BR-9. The lines S3 and S4 are on an extension of a straight line S100 connecting the first connection portion BR-10-C1 and the second connection portion BR-10-C2 to each other.

In the above, due to a restriction in the mold releasing direction illustrated in Fig. 11A, in the right surface buffer portions BR-10, an angle α' formed on the outer side of the loop between the line S3 and a portion (a first intermediate portion) between the projection BR-10-1 and the first connection portion BR-10-C1 is 90° or more. Similarly, an angle β' formed between the line S4 and a portion (a second intermediate portion) between the projection BR-10-2 and the first connection portion BR-10-C1 is 90° or more.

A configuration in which the angles α' and β' are 90° or less can be fabricated by providing a sliding mechanism or the like in the mold. However, when the mold is provided with a sliding mechanism or the like, the cost of the mold increases.

Accordingly, a reinforcing rib (a reinforcing portion) BR-11 that extends in the circumferential direction of the closed loop is formed between the projection BR-10-1 and the recessed portion BR-10-3 as in Fig. 11B. By forming the reinforcing rib BR11, the strength of a portion between the projection BR-10-1 and the recessed portion BR-10-3 is increased with respect to a portion between the projection BR-10-1 and the first connection portion BR-10-C1. By so doing, when the projection BR-10-1 comes into contact with the ground, since the strength of the portion between the projection BR-10-1 and the first connection portion BR-10-C1 is smaller, bending starts therein and the projection BR-10-1 is bent in an X3 direction.

In the present embodiment, a reinforcing rib BR-12 is formed in a portion between the projection BR-10-2 and the recessed portion BR-10-3 in a similar manner. As a result, when the projection BR-10-2 comes in contact with the ground, the portion between the projection BR-10-2 and the second connection portion BR-10-C2 is bent in an X4 direction.

By bending the projection BR-10-1 in the X3 direction and bending the projection BR-10-2 in the X4 direction, the recessed portion BR-10-3 is pulled by the projection BR-10-1 and the projection BR-10-2.

As a result, an effect similar to that of the top surface buffer portion BR-2 can be obtained without increasing the mold fabrication cost. Note that while both of the reinforcing rib BR-11 and the reinforcing rib BR-12 are provided in both of the right surface buffer portions BR-10, if not needed, the reinforcing rib BR-11 and the reinforcing rib BR-12 may be provided in only either one of the right surface buffer portions BR-10. Furthermore, a reinforcing rib may be provided in the buffer portion, such as the top surface buffer portion BR-2, that is oriented so as to intersect the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, the location where the reinforcing rib is disposed in the buffer portion can be selected according to the desired deformation direction. For example, in a case in which it is desirable that the projection deforms toward the recessed portion, the reinforcing rib may be provided on the side opposite to the location described above.

While in the present embodiment, a configuration in which the number of projections is two and the number of recessed portions is one, and a configuration in which the number of projections is three and the number of recessed portions is two have been described; however, the present disclosure is not limited to the above configurations. Depending on the size of the space in which the buffer portions can be disposed, the buffer distance, and the weight of the packed object, the numbers of the projections and the recessed portions can be increased further.

Second Embodiment

Description of a second embodiment will be given. In the second embodiment, components that are the same as those of the first embodiment are attached with the same reference numerals and repeated description will be omitted basically. Matters that are not described in the second embodiment is similar to those of the first embodiment.

A packing member BP according to the second embodiment is different from the packing members BR and BL according to the first embodiment in that a portion of a protection portion and a buffer portion is movably connected to an accommodating portion BP-A configured to accommodate the packed object.

Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the packing member according to the second embodiment.

The packing member BP includes the accommodating portion BP-A configured to accommodate at least part of the cartridge P. The packing member BP includes a holding portion BP-1 that holds the cartridge P accommodated in the accommodating portion BP-A, and a buffer portion BP-2 that projects from the holding portion BP-1 toward an outer side of the accommodating portion BP-A and that has flexibility. Note that the configurations of the holding portion BP-1 and the buffer portion BP-2 are the same as those of the top surface holding portions BR-1 and BL-1 and those of the top surface buffer portions BR-2 and BL-2 according to the first embodiment; accordingly, description thereof is omitted.

The packing member BP includes a lateral wall BP-3. Note that the lateral wall BP-3 is the same as the right surface holding portion BR-9 or the left surface holding portion BL-9 according to the first embodiment; accordingly, description thereof is omitted. The packing member is the same as the packing members BR, BL, and the like according to the first embodiment and is attached to an end portion of the cartridge P in the longitudinal direction (in an arrow LD direction in Fig. 13).

The holding portion BP-1 and the buffer portion BP-2 are connected to the lateral wall BP-3 with a hinge portion (a connection portion) BP-R interposed in between. The holding portion BP-1 and the buffer portion BP-2 are rotatable with respect to the accommodating portion BP-A.

In a state in which the packing member BP and the cartridge P are accommodated in the packaging box A and in which the lid of the packaging box A is closed, the holding portion BP-1 and the buffer portion BP-2 are closed and are positioned between the cartridge P and the packaging box A. In other words, the holding portion BP-1 and the buffer portion BP-2 are positioned at positions similar to those of the top surface holding portions BR-1 and BL-1 and the top surface buffer portions BR-2 and BL-2 of the first embodiment. When the lid of the packaging box A is opened, the holding portion BP-1 and the buffer portion BP-2 are allowed to rotate, and when the cartridge P is taken out in an arrow DD direction, are retreated from the path through which the cartridge P passes. Accordingly, the cartridge P can be taken out from the accommodating portion BP-A in a smooth manner. Note that the arrow DD direction is a direction intersecting (desirably, a direction orthogonal to) the longitudinal direction of the cartridge P.

Furthermore, a packing member which is symmetrical to the packing member BP can be attached to the other end side of the cartridge P in the longitudinal direction. With the above, even in a case in which the packing members are attached to both ends of the cartridge P in the longitudinal direction, the cartridge P can be taken out in the arrow DD direction.

As described above, the buffer portion BP-2 allows the cartridge P to be taken out from the accommodating portion BP-A in a smooth manner while protecting the cartridge P.

As described above, the present disclosure can provide a packing member that is capable of improving the buffer performance without increasing the size of the buffer portion in the height direction. Furthermore, the present disclosure can also be applied to the packing unit including the packed object and the packing members attached to the packed object.

Note that while, in the embodiments described above, the cartridge P has been illustrated as an example of the packed object, the present disclosure is not limited to the above. The packing member of the present disclosure can be used for a fixing device detachable to an image forming apparatus, a replacement part such as an intermediate transfer belt unit, or an electronic device, for example.

While the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

This application claims the benefit of Japanese Patent Application No. 2018-048198, filed March 15, 2018, and No. 2019-010679, filed January 24, 2019, which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

Claims

A packing member configured to be attached to a packed object, the packing member comprising:
an accommodating portion configured to accommodate at least part of the packed object;
a holding portion configured to hold the packed object; and
a buffer portion that projects from the holding portion toward an outer side of the accommodating portion, the buffer portion configured to form a closed loop together with the holding portion, the buffer portion bent so as to form a first projection that projects toward the outer side of the accommodating portion, a second projection that projects toward the outer side of the accommodating portion, and a recessed portion recessed toward an inner side of the accommodating portion,
wherein in a circumferential direction of the closed loop, the recessed portion is positioned between the first projection and the second projection, and
wherein in a position where the recessed portion is formed, the buffer portion is movable between a position away from the holding portion and a position in contact with the holding portion by elastic deformation of the buffer portion.
The packing member according to Claim 1,
wherein the buffer portion is bent so as to form a third projection that projects toward the outer side of the accommodating portion and that is positioned between the first projection and the second projection in the circumferential direction.
The packing member according to Claim 2,
wherein the third projection is positioned between the holding portion and a virtual plane in contact with the first projection and the second projection.
The packing member according to any one of Claims 1 to 3,
wherein the buffer portion is connected to the holding portion with the first connection portion and the second connection portion, the buffer portion includes a first intermediate portion positioned between the first connection portion and the first projection, and the buffer portion includes a second intermediate portion positioned between the second connection portion and the second projection,
wherein at least either one of the first intermediate portion and the second intermediate portion includes an inclined surface, and
wherein in an inner side of the closed loop, an angle between a straight line connecting the first connection portion and the second connection portion, and the inclined surface is an obtuse angle.
The packing member according to any one of Claims 1 to 4,
wherein the buffer portion includes a reinforcing portion that extends in the circumferential direction in at least either one of a portion between the first projection and the recessed portion, and a portion between the second projection and the recessed portion.
A packing member configured to be attached to a packed object, the packing member comprising:
an accommodating portion configured to accommodate at least part of the packed object;
a holding portion configured to hold the packed object; and
a buffer portion that projects from the holding portion toward an outer side of the accommodating portion, the buffer portion configured to form a closed loop together with the holding portion, the buffer portion capable of contacting a virtual plane positioned on an outer side of the closed loop with a first contact portion and a second contact portion, the buffer portion including an opposition portion that opposes the virtual plane with a gap in between,
wherein in a circumferential direction of the closed loop, the second contact portion is positioned at a position away from the first contact portion, the opposition portion is positioned between the first contact portion and the second contact portion, and
wherein in a position between the first contact portion and the second contact portion, the buffer portion is movable between a position away from the holding portion and a position in contact with the holding portion by elastic deformation of the buffer portion.
The packing member according to Claim 6,
wherein the buffer portion includes a projection that projects toward the virtual plane, the projection being positioned between the first contact portion and the second contact portion in the circumferential direction.
The packing member according to Claim 7,
wherein the projection is formed in the opposition portion.
The packing member according to any one of Claims 1 to 8,
wherein a material of the holding portion and the buffer portion includes thermoplastic resin, and
the holding portion and the buffer portion is formed integrally.
The packing member according to any one of Claims 1 to 9, further comprising:
a plurality of the holding portions and a plurality of the buffer portions,
wherein at least one of the holding portions and the buffer portions is movably connected to the accommodating portion.
The packing member according to any one of Claims 1 to 10,
wherein the packed object is a cartridge that is detachable from the image forming apparatus.
A packing unit comprising:
a packed object; and
a packing member attached to the packed object, the packing member including:
an accommodating portion that accommodates at least part of the packed object;
a holding portion configured to hold the packed object; and
a buffer portion that projects from the holding portion toward an outer side of the accommodating portion, the buffer portion configured to form a closed loop together with the holding portion, the buffer portion bent so as to form a first projection that projects toward the outer side of the accommodating portion, a second projection that projects toward the outer side of the accommodating portion, and a recessed portion recessed toward an inner side of the accommodating portion,
wherein in a circumferential direction of the closed loop, the recessed portion is positioned between the first projection and the second projection, and
wherein in a position where the recessed portion is formed, the buffer portion is movable between a position away from the holding portion and a position in contact with the holding portion by elastic deformation of the buffer portion.
A packing unit according to Claim 12,
wherein the buffer portion is bent so as to form a third projection that projects toward the outer side of the accommodating portion and that is positioned between the first projection and the second projection in the circumferential direction.
The packing unit according to Claim 13,
wherein the third projection is positioned between the holding portion and a virtual plane in contact with the first projection and the second projection.
The packing unit according to any one of Claims 9 to 11,
wherein the buffer portion is connected to the holding portion with the first connection portion and the second connection portion, the buffer portion includes a first intermediate portion positioned between the first connection portion and the first projection, and the buffer portion includes a second intermediate portion positioned between the second connection portion and the second projection,
wherein at least either one of the first intermediate portion and the second intermediate portion includes an inclined surface, and
wherein in an inner side of the closed loop, an angle between a straight line connecting the first connection portion and the second connection portion, and the inclined surface is an obtuse angle.
The packing unit according to any one of Claims 12 to 15,
wherein the buffer portion includes a reinforcing portion that extends in the circumferential direction in at least either one of a portion between the first projection and the recessed portion, and a portion between the second projection and the recessed portion.
A packing unit comprising:
a packed object; and
a packing member attached to the packed object, wherein the packing member including:
an accommodating portion that accommodates at least part of the packed object;
a holding portion configured to hold the packed object; and
a buffer portion that projects from the holding portion toward an outer side of the accommodating portion,
wherein the buffer portion is configured to form a closed loop together with the holding portion, the buffer portion capable of contacting a virtual plane positioned on an outer side of the closed loop with a first contact portion and a second contact portion, the buffer portion including an opposition portion that opposes the virtual plane with a gap in between,
wherein in a circumferential direction of the closed loop, the second contact portion is positioned at a position away from the first contact portion, the opposition portion is positioned between the first contact portion and the second contact portion, and
wherein in a position between the first contact portion and the second contact portion, the buffer portion is movable between a position away from the holding portion and a position in contact with the holding portion by elastic deformation of the buffer portion.
The packing unit according to Claim 17,
wherein the buffer portion includes a projection that projects toward the virtual plane, the projection being positioned between the first contact portion and the second contact portion in the circumferential direction.
The packing unit according to Claim 18,
wherein the projection is formed in the opposition portion.
The packing unit according to any one of Claims 12 to 19,
wherein a material of the holding portion and the buffer portion includes thermoplastic resin, and
the holding portion and the buffer portion is formed integrally.
The packing unit according to any one of Claims 12 to 20,
wherein the packing member includes a plurality of the holding portions and a plurality of the buffer portions, and
wherein at least one of the holding portions and the buffer portions is movably connected to the accommodating portion.
The packing unit according to any one of Claims 12 to 21,
wherein in a longitudinal direction of the packed object, the packing member is attached to a first end and a second end of the packed object.
The packing unit according to any one of Claims 12 to 22, further comprising:
a packaging box that accommodates the packing member and the packed object,
wherein the packed object is a cartridge that is detachable from the image forming apparatus.
The packing unit according to Claim 23,
wherein the cartridge includes an image bearing member that bears an electrostatic latent image, or a developer bearing member that bears developer for developing an electrostatic latent image, and
wherein the buffer portion restricts the image bearing member or the developer bearing member from coming in contact with an inner wall of the packaging box.