Developing cartridge

Abstract

The present invention provides a developing cartridge that can be installed in an image forming apparatus. The developing cartridge includes: a developing roller that can rotate about a first axis extending in a first direction; a housing configured to accommodate a developer, and in a state where the developing roller is located at one end of the housing in a second direction and the developing cartridge is installed in the image forming apparatus, the housing can rotate between a first position and a second position relative to the image forming apparatus; and a storage medium including an electrical contact surface that does not contact an electrical contact point of the image forming apparatus when the housing is in the first position, and contacts the electrical contact point of the image forming apparatus when the housing is in the second position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a developing cartridge having an electrical contact surface. Background Art

[0002] An electrophotographic image forming apparatus such as a laser printer or an LED printer is known. Such an image forming apparatus uses a developing cartridge. The developing cartridge includes a developing roller for supplying toner. A developing cartridge is known in the prior art, which is inserted relative to a drawer unit. The drawer unit includes a photosensitive drum. When the developing cartridge is inserted relative to the drawer unit, the photosensitive drum and the developing cartridge face each other. Then, the drawer unit equipped with the developing cartridge is accommodated in the image forming apparatus.

[0003] A developing cartridge is also known in the prior art, which is inserted relative to a drum unit. The drum unit includes a photosensitive drum. When the developing cartridge is inserted relative to the drum unit, the photosensitive drum and the developing cartridge face each other. Then, the drum unit equipped with the developing cartridge is installed in the image forming apparatus.

[0004] A developing cartridge having a storage medium is also known. The storage medium is, for example, an IC chip. The storage medium includes an electrical contact surface. The electrical contact surface contacts an electrical contact point of the image forming apparatus or the drawer unit. However, in a state where the developing cartridge is inserted relative to the image forming apparatus or the drawer unit, the electrical contact point and the electrical contact surface may rub against each other. Summary of the Invention

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a structure capable of reducing friction of the electrical contact surface when the developing cartridge is inserted.

[0006] According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a developing cartridge that can be installed in an image forming apparatus, the developing cartridge including: a developing roller rotatable about a first axis extending in a first direction; a housing configured to accommodate a developer, the housing being capable of rotating between a first position and a second position relative to the image forming apparatus in a state where the developing roller is located at one end of the housing in a second direction and the developing cartridge is installed in the image forming apparatus; and a storage medium including an electrical contact surface, the electrical contact surface not contacting an electrical contact point of the image forming apparatus in a state where the housing is located at the first position, and the electrical contact surface contacting the electrical contact point of the image forming apparatus in a state where the housing is located at the second position.

[0007] Preferably, in a state where the housing is located at the first position, a surface of the developing roller is not pressed against a surface of a photosensitive drum of the image forming apparatus, and in a state where the housing is located at the second position, the surface of the developing roller is pressed against the surface of the photosensitive drum of the image forming apparatus.

[0008] Preferably, the housing further includes a protrusion configured to receive a pressure for pressing the surface of the developing roller against the surface of the photosensitive drum of the image forming apparatus when the housing is in the second position.

[0009] Preferably, the protrusion is located on the outer surface of the housing.

[0010] Preferably, the protrusion extends from the outer surface.

[0011] Preferably, a rod is further included, which can swing between a third position and a fourth position together with the electrical contact surface about a second axis extending in the first direction. The rod is in the third position when the housing is in the first position, and the rod is in the fourth position when the housing is in the second position.

[0012] Preferably, a cover is further included, which covers at least a part of the rod. The electrical contact surface in the second position is farther from the cover than the electrical contact surface in the first position.

[0013] Preferably, the rod is located on the outer surface of the housing, and the outer surface is on one side of the housing in the first direction. The developing cartridge further includes a cover mounted on the outer surface and covering at least a part of the rod. When the housing is in the second position, the cover and the housing can move relative to the rod and the electrical contact surface in the second direction.

[0014] Preferably, the rod includes a boss extending in the first direction, and the cover includes a guiding surface configured to guide the boss in the second direction. When the housing and the cover move relative to the rod and the electrical contact surface in the second direction, the boss moves along the guiding surface in the second direction.

[0015] Preferably, the boss is located at one end of the rod, and the electrical contact surface is located at the other end of the rod.

[0016] Preferably, when the developing cartridge is installed in the image forming apparatus, and when the housing and the cover rotate relative to the image forming apparatus about the developing roller from the first position to the second position, the guiding surface presses on the boss, causing the rod to swing from the third position to the fourth position.

[0017] Preferably, the cover includes a boss extending in the first direction, and the rod includes a guiding surface configured to guide the boss in the second direction. When the housing and the cover move relative to the rod and the electrical contact surface in the second direction, the boss moves along the guiding surface in the second direction.

[0018] Preferably, the guiding surface is located at one end of the rod, and the electrical contact surface is located at the other end of the rod.

[0019] Preferably, when the developing cartridge is installed in the image forming apparatus, and the housing and the cover rotate from the first position to the second position relative to the image forming apparatus about the developing roller, the boss presses against the guiding surface, causing the rod to swing from the third position to the fourth position.

[0020] Preferably, it further includes a support member located on the outer surface, the support member supporting the rod in a manner capable of swinging about the second axis, at least a part of the support member being covered by the cover, and the housing and the cover being capable of moving relative to the support member, the rod, and the electrical contact surface in the second direction.

[0021] Preferably, when the developing cartridge is inserted into the image forming apparatus, the support member is positioned relative to the image forming apparatus.

[0022] Preferably, the support member is located between one end of the rod and the other end of the rod.

[0023] Preferably, the rod is located on the outer surface of the housing, the outer surface being on one side of the housing in the first direction. The developing cartridge further includes a support member located on the outer surface, the support member supporting the rod in a manner capable of swinging about the second axis, and the support member being capable of moving relative to the housing in the second direction together with the rod and the electrical contact surface.

[0024] Preferably, when the developing cartridge is inserted into the image forming apparatus, the support member is positioned relative to the image forming apparatus.

[0025] Preferably, the support member is located between one end of the rod and the other end of the rod.

[0026] Preferably, it further includes a cover that covers at least a part of the rod. The rod includes a pressed portion configured to be pressed by one of the housing and a member fixed to the housing when the developing cartridge is inserted into the image forming apparatus and the housing and the cover rotate about the developing roller relative to the image forming apparatus, and the length from the second axis to the electrical contact surface is longer than the length from the second axis to the pressed portion.

[0027] Preferably, it further includes a cover that covers at least a part of the rod. The rod includes a pressed portion configured to be pressed by one of the housing and a member fixed to the housing when the developing cartridge is inserted into the image forming apparatus and the housing and the cover rotate about the developing roller relative to the image forming apparatus, and the length from the second axis to the pressed portion is longer than the length from the second axis to the electrical contact surface.

[0028] Preferably, the support member extends in a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction. The support member includes one end and the other end in the third direction. When the rod is in the third position, the electrical contact surface is located between the one end and the other end in the third direction. When the rod is in the fourth position, the distance between the electrical contact surface and the other end in the third direction is farther than the distance between the electrical contact surface and the one end.

[0029] Preferably, the support member extends in a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction. The support member includes one end and the other end in the third direction. The support member further includes a pressing member configured to press the support member in a direction from the one end to the other end.

[0030] Preferably, the support member extends in a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction. The support member further includes a first engaging portion located at one end of the support member in the third direction, and the first engaging portion is configured to engage with a part of the image forming apparatus.

[0031] Preferably, the support member includes an engaging portion, and the rod includes one end and the other end. The rod includes: the electrical contact surface located at the other end of the rod; and a engaged portion located at the one end of the rod, configured to engage with the engaging portion when the rod is in the fourth position and not engage with the engaging portion when the rod is in the third position.

[0032] Preferably, the rod includes one end and the other end, and the rod includes: the electrical contact surface located at the other end of the rod; and a fitting portion located at one end of the rod and configured to cooperate with a part of the image forming apparatus when the developing cartridge is inserted into the image forming apparatus.

[0033] Preferably, the storage medium can swing together with the electrical contact surface.

[0034] Preferably, a rod is further included, and the rod can swing together with the electrical contact surface between a third position and a fourth position about a second axis extending in the first direction. The rod is located at the third position when the housing is in the first position, and the rod is located at the fourth position when the housing is in the second position. The rod holds the electrical contact surface. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] The features and advantages of the present invention will become clear from the following description in conjunction with the drawings, wherein:

[0036] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a developing cartridge according to an embodiment;

[0037] Figure 2 is a partially exploded perspective view of a developing cartridge according to an embodiment;

[0038] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the developing cartridge cut along a plane near the IC chip assembly according to an embodiment;

[0039] Figure 4 is a view showing a state during an insertion operation of a developing cartridge according to an embodiment;

[0040] Figure 5 is a view showing a state during an insertion operation of a developing cartridge according to an embodiment;

[0041] Figure 6 is a view showing a state during a rotation operation of a developing cartridge according to an embodiment;

[0042] Figure 7 is a view showing a state during a rotation operation of a developing cartridge according to an embodiment;

[0043] Figure 8 is a view showing a state during a separation operation of a developing cartridge according to an embodiment;

[0044] Figure 9 is a view showing a state during a separation operation of a developing cartridge according to an embodiment;

[0045] Figure 10is a partially exploded perspective view of a developing cartridge according to the first modified example;

[0046] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the developing cartridge taken along a plane near the IC chip assembly according to the first modified example;

[0047] Figure 12 is a partially exploded perspective view of a developing cartridge according to the second modified example;

[0048] Figure 13 is a partial front view of the developing cartridge according to the second modified example, obtained by assembling the disassembled components shown in Figure 12 ;

[0049] Figure 14 is a view showing the state during the rotation operation of the developing cartridge according to the third modified example;

[0050] Figure 15 is a partially exploded perspective view of a developing cartridge according to the fourth modified example;

[0051] Figure 16 is a partially exploded perspective view of the developing cartridge with the lid fixed to the developing cartridge according to the fourth modified example;

[0052] Figure 17 is a view showing the state during the rotation operation of the developing cartridge according to the fourth modified example;

[0053] Figure 18 is a view showing the state of the developing cartridge during the separation operation according to the fourth modified example;

[0054] Figure 19 is a view showing the state during the rotation operation of the developing cartridge according to the fifth modified example;

[0055] Figure 20 is a view showing the state during the rotation operation of the developing cartridge according to the sixth modified example;

[0056] Figure 21 is a view showing the state of the developing cartridge during the insertion operation according to the seventh modified example;

[0057] Figure 22 is a view showing the state during the rotation operation of the developing cartridge according to the seventh modified example;

[0058] Figure 23 is a view showing the state of the developing cartridge during the insertion operation according to the eighth modified example; and

[0059] Figure 24 is a view showing the state during the rotation operation of the developing cartridge according to the eighth modified example. Detailed Description

[0060] The developing cartridge according to the embodiment will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals are assigned to like components to avoid redundant description.

[0061] Embodiments and modifications of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0062] Hereinafter, the direction in which the rotation axis of the developing roller extends is referred to as the "first direction". The direction along which the housing moves during the separation operation is referred to as the "second direction". The direction crossing the electrical contact surface is referred to as the "third direction". The first direction and the second direction cross each other, preferably, perpendicular to each other. The second direction and the third direction cross each other, preferably, perpendicular to each other. The third direction and the first direction cross each other, preferably, perpendicular to each other.

[0063] <1. Overall Structure of Developing Cartridge>

[0064] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a developing cartridge 1 as an example of the present invention. Figure 2 is a partially exploded perspective view of the developing cartridge 1. The developing cartridge 1 is used in an electrophotographic image forming apparatus (e.g., a laser printer or an LED printer), and is configured to supply a developer (e.g., toner) to a photosensitive drum. The developing cartridge 1 is mounted to a drawer unit 9 included in the image forming apparatus. When replacing the developing cartridge 1, the drawer unit 9 is pulled out from the front surface of the image forming apparatus. Then, the developing cartridge 1 is inserted into each of a plurality of slots of the drawer unit 9. The photosensitive drum is provided in each of the plurality of slots.

[0065] Optionally, the developing cartridge 1 may be mounted to the main body of the image forming apparatus. In this case, the developing cartridge 1 is inserted into each of a plurality of slots of the image forming apparatus. The photosensitive drum is provided in each of the plurality of slots. Alternatively, the developing cartridge 1 may be mounted to a drum unit, and the drum unit is detachably mounted to the image forming apparatus. In this case, the drum unit includes a photosensitive drum. The developing cartridge 1 is mounted to the drum unit, and the drum unit mounted with the developing cartridge 1 is inserted into the slot of the image forming apparatus.

[0066] As Figure 1 shown, the developing cartridge 1 according to the present embodiment includes a housing 10, an agitator 20, a developing roller 30, a gear portion 40, a cover 50, and an IC chip assembly 60.

[0067] The housing portion 10 is a housing capable of storing a developer therein. The housing portion 10 extends in a first direction between a first outer surface 11 and a second outer surface 12. A gear portion 40, a cover 50, and an IC chip assembly 60 are located at the first outer surface 11. A container 13 is located in the housing portion 10. The developer is stored in the container 13. The housing portion 10 has an opening portion 14. The opening portion 14 is located at one end portion of the housing portion 10 in a second direction. The container 13 communicates with its exterior through the opening portion 14.

[0068] In a state where the developing cartridge 1 is mounted on the drawer unit 9, the housing portion 10 is capable of rotating relative to the drawer unit 9 between a first position and a second position with respect to the developing roller 30. The rotation operation will be described in detail later.

[0069] The agitator 20 includes an agitator shaft 21 and agitator blades 22. The agitator shaft 21 is capable of rotating about a rotation axis extending in a first direction. The agitator blades 22 extend radially outward from the agitator shaft 21. At least a part of the agitator shaft 21 and the entire agitator blades 22 are located in the container 13. One end portion of the agitator shaft 21 in the first direction is fixed to an agitator gear 44 described later, and thus cannot rotate relative to the agitator gear 44. Therefore, the agitator shaft 21 and the agitator blades 22 can rotate together with the agitator gear 44. When the agitator blades 22 rotate, the developer in the container 13 is agitated.

[0070] The developing roller 30 is capable of rotating about a rotation axis (first axis) extending in a first direction. The developing roller 30 is located at the opening portion 14 of the housing portion 10. That is, the developing roller 30 is located at one end portion of the housing portion 10 in a second direction. The developing roller 30 of the present embodiment includes a developing roller body 31 and a developing roller shaft 32. The developing roller body 31 is a cylindrical member extending in a first direction. As a material of the developing roller body 31, rubber having elasticity is used. The developing roller shaft 32 is a columnar member penetrating the developing roller body 31 in a first direction. As a material of the developing roller shaft 32, a metal or resin having conductivity is used. The developing roller body 31 is fixed to the developing roller shaft 32 so as not to rotate relative to the developing roller shaft 32.

[0071] A developing roller gear 42 is assembled to one end portion of the developing roller shaft 32 in a first direction. More specifically, one end portion of the developing roller shaft 32 in a first direction is fixed to the developing roller gear 42 so as not to rotate relative to the developing roller gear 42. Therefore, when the developing roller gear 42 rotates, the developing roller shaft 32 rotates, so that the developing roller body 31 rotates together with the developing roller shaft 32.

[0072] The developing roller shaft 32 may not penetrate the developing roller body 31 in a first direction. For example, a pair of developing roller shafts 32 may extend from both ends of the developing roller body 31 in a first direction.

[0073] The developing cartridge 1 includes a supply roller (not shown). The supply roller is located between the developing roller 30 and the container 13. In addition, the supply roller is rotatable about a rotation axis extending in the first direction. When the developing cartridge 1 receives a driving force, the developer is supplied from the container 13 in the housing portion 10 to the outer peripheral surface of the developing roller 30 by the supply roller. At this time, the developer is triboelectrically charged between the supply roller and the developing roller 30. On the other hand, a bias voltage is applied to the developing roller shaft 32 of the developing roller 30. Therefore, the developer is attracted to the outer peripheral surface of the developing roller body 31 by the electrostatic force between the developing roller shaft 32 and the developer.

[0074] The developing cartridge 1 further includes a layer thickness restricting piece 33. The layer thickness restricting piece 33 restricts the thickness of the developer supplied to the outer peripheral surface of the developing roller body 31 to a certain thickness. The developer on the outer peripheral surface of the developing roller body 31 is supplied to the photosensitive drum in the drawer unit 9. At this time, the developer moves from the developing roller body 31 to the photosensitive drum according to the electrostatic latent image formed on the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum. As a result, the electrostatic latent image is developed on the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum.

[0075] The gear portion 40 is located on the first outer surface 11 of the housing portion 10. As Figure 2 shown, the gear portion 40 includes a coupler 41, a developing roller gear 42, an idler gear 43, and a stirrer gear 44. In Figure 2 it, the gear teeth of each gear are not shown.

[0076] The coupler 41 is a gear configured to first receive the driving force provided from the image forming apparatus. The coupler 41 is rotatable about a rotation axis extending in the first direction. The coupler 41 includes a coupling portion 411 and a coupling gear 412. The coupling portion 411 and the coupling gear 412 are integrally formed of resin, for example. The coupling portion 411 includes a fixing hole 413 recessed in the first direction. A plurality of gear teeth are formed at equal intervals on the entire outer peripheral portion of the coupling gear 412.

[0077] When the drawer unit 9 in which the developing cartridge 1 is installed is inserted into the image forming apparatus, the drive shaft of the image forming apparatus is inserted into the fixing hole 413 of the coupling portion 411. As a result, the drive shaft and the coupling portion 411 are connected to each other, so that the drive shaft cannot rotate relative to the coupling portion 411. Therefore, the rotation of the drive shaft causes the coupling portion 411 to rotate, and thus causes the coupling gear 412 to rotate together with the coupling portion 411.

[0078] The developing roller gear 42 is used to rotate the developing roller 30. The developing roller gear 42 is rotatable about a rotation axis extending in the first direction. A plurality of gear teeth are formed at equal intervals on the entire outer peripheral portion of the developing roller gear 42. Some of the gear teeth of the coupling gear 412 mesh with some of the gear teeth of the developing roller gear 42. The developing roller gear 42 is fixed to one end portion of the developing roller shaft 32 in the first direction, so as not to rotate relative to the developing roller shaft 32. Therefore, when the coupling gear 412 rotates, the developing roller gear 42 rotates, causing the developing roller 30 to rotate together with the developing roller gear 42.

[0079] The idler gear 43 is used to transmit the rotation of the coupling gear 412 to the agitator gear 44. The idler gear 43 is rotatable about a rotation axis extending in the first direction. The idler gear 43 includes a large-diameter portion 431 and a small-diameter portion 432, which are arranged in the first direction. The small-diameter portion 432 is located between the large-diameter portion 431 and the first outer surface 11 of the housing portion 10. In other words, the large-diameter portion 431 is farther from the first outer surface 11 than the small-diameter portion 432. The diameter of the addendum circle of the small-diameter portion 432 is smaller than the diameter of the addendum circle of the large-diameter portion 431. The large-diameter portion 431 and the small-diameter portion 432 are integrally formed of resin, for example.

[0080] A plurality of gear teeth are formed at equal intervals on the outer peripheral portion of each of the large-diameter portion 431 and the small-diameter portion 432. The number of gear teeth of the small-diameter portion 432 is smaller than the number of gear teeth of the large-diameter portion 431. Some of the gear teeth of the coupling gear 412 mesh with some of the gear teeth of the large-diameter portion 431. Some of the gear teeth of the small-diameter portion 432 mesh with some of the gear teeth of the agitator gear 44. Therefore, when the coupling gear 412 rotates, the large-diameter portion 431 rotates, causing the small-diameter portion 432 to rotate together with the large-diameter portion 431. As the small-diameter portion 432 rotates, the agitator gear 44 rotates.

[0081] The agitator gear 44 is used to rotate the agitator 20 in the container 13. The agitator gear 44 is rotatable about a rotation axis extending in the first direction. A plurality of gear teeth are formed at equal intervals on the entire outer peripheral portion of the agitator gear 44. As described above, some of the gear teeth of the small-diameter portion 432 mesh with some of the gear teeth of the agitator gear 44. The agitator gear 44 is fixed to one end portion of the agitator shaft 21 in the first direction, so that the agitator gear 44 does not rotate relative to the agitator shaft 21. Therefore, when the driving force is transmitted from the coupling 41 to the agitator gear 44 through the idler gear 43, the agitator gear 44 rotates, causing the agitator 20 to rotate together with the agitator gear 44.

[0082] The cover 50 is fixed to the first outer surface 11 of the housing 10 by screws, for example. The coupling gear 412, the developing roller gear 42, the idler gear 43, the agitator gear 44, and the IC chip assembly 60 are at least partially located between the first outer surface 11 and the cover 50. The cover 50 includes a first opening 51 and a second opening 52. The fixing hole 413 of the coupling portion 411 is exposed to the outside of the cover 50 through the first opening 51. The electrical contact surface 611 of the IC chip 61 described later and the first inclined surface 643 of the support member 64 described later are exposed to the outside of the cover 50 through the second opening 52.

[0083] <2. IC Chip Assembly>

[0084] The IC chip assembly 60 is a unit including an IC chip 61 as an example of a storage medium. The IC chip assembly 60 is located at the first outer surface 11 of the housing 10. Figure 3 It is a cross-sectional view of the developing cartridge 1 cut along a plane perpendicular to the first direction near the IC chip assembly. As Figure 2 and Figure 3 shown, the IC chip assembly 60 includes an IC chip 61, a holding portion 62, a rod 63, and a support member 64.

[0085] The IC chip 61 is fixed to the end face of the holding portion 62 in the third direction. The IC chip 61 stores various information about the developing cartridge 1. As Figure 2 and Figure 3 shown, the IC chip 61 includes an electrical contact surface 611. The electrical contact surface 611 is made of a conductive metal. The drawer unit 9 includes electrical contacts. When the developing cartridge 1 is installed in the drawer unit 9, the electrical contact surface 611 of the IC chip 61 contacts the electrical contacts. As a result, the electrical contact surface 611 and the electrical contacts are electrically connected to each other. This allows the image forming apparatus to perform at least one of reading information from the IC chip 61 and writing information to the IC chip 61.

[0086] The holding portion 62 and the rod 63 are integrally formed of resin, for example. However, the holding portion 62 and the rod 63 may be separate members. The holding portion 62 and the rod 63 are at least partially covered by the cover 50. The rod 63 includes a boss 631. The boss 631 extends toward the cover 50 in the first direction at one end of the rod 63. The boss 631 may have a cylindrical shape or other shapes as shown, such as a prismatic shape. The holding portion 62 is located at the other end of the rod 63. The rod 63 holds the electrical contact surface 611 of the IC chip 61 through the holding portion 62. Here, one end and the other end of the rod 63 are examples of the first end and the second end of the rod 63, respectively.

[0087] The rod 63 is capable of swinging between a third position and a fourth position about a rotation axis (second axis) extending in the first direction. In Figure 3Among them, the rod 63 at the third position is represented by a solid line, and the rod 63 at the fourth position is represented by a dashed-dotted line. When the rod 63 swings, both the holding portion 62 and the IC chip 61 swing in the third direction together with the other end portion of the rod 63. More specifically, when one end portion of the rod 63 swings about the rotation axis (the second axis), both the holding portion 62 and the IC chip 61 swing in the third direction together with the other end portion of the rod 63. Therefore, the electrical contact surface 611 of the IC chip 61 swings in the third direction. At this time, the swinging direction of the electrical contact surface 611 and the swinging direction of the rod 63 cross each other. Hereinafter, when the rod 63 is at the third position, the position of the electrical contact surface 611 is referred to as the "retracted position", and when the rod 63 is at the fourth position, the position of the electrical contact surface 611 is referred to as the "advanced position".

[0088] The electrical contact surface 611 at the retracted position is at least partially located inside the cover 50 and is in a state of being exposed from the second opening portion 52 of the cover 50. When the electrical contact surface 611 is at the retracted position, the position of the electrical contact surface 611 in the third direction is located between one end portion of the support member 64 in the third direction and the other end portion of the support member 64 in the third direction. On the other hand, the electrical contact surface 611 at the advanced position is located outside the cover 50 and is in a state of being exposed outside the cover 50 through the second opening portion 52 of the cover 50. In other words, the electrical contact surface 611 at the advanced position protrudes outside the cover 50 through the second opening portion 52 of the cover 50. That is to say, the electrical contact surface 611 at the advanced position is farther from the cover 50 than the electrical contact surface 611 at the retracted position. When the electrical contact surface 611 is at the advanced position, the electrical contact surface 611 can be located at a position farther from the other end portion (including the end portion of the second inclined surface 644 described later) of the support member 64 than one end portion (including the end portion of the first inclined surface 643 described later) of the support member 64.

[0089] The cover 50 has a through hole 53. The through hole 53 penetrates the cover 50 in the first direction. The boss 631 of the rod 63 is inserted into the through hole 53. The dimension (inner dimension) of the through hole 53 in the second direction is larger than the dimension (outer dimension) of the boss 631 in the second direction. This allows the rod 63 and the holding portion 62 together with the boss 631 to move relative to the housing portion 10 and the cover 50 in the second direction. When the rod 63 and the holding portion 62 move in the second direction, the IC chip 61 including the electrical contact surface 611 moves in the second direction together with the holding portion 62.

[0090] The size (inner size) of the through hole 53 in the third direction is larger than the size (outer size) of the boss 631 in the third direction. This allows one end of the rod 63 together with the boss 631 to move relative to the housing portion 10 and the cover 50 in the third direction. When one end of the rod 63 moves in the third direction, the rod 63 swings about the second axis.

[0091] The rod 63 may include a plurality of bosses 631. In this case, the cover 50 may have one or more through holes 53 into which the plurality of bosses 631 are inserted. The through hole 53 does not need to penetrate the cover 50 and may be a hole into which the boss 631 of the rod 63 can be inserted. That is, the cover 50 may have a recess into which the boss 631 is inserted instead of the through hole 53. The rod 63 may include a boss protruding toward the first outer surface 11 of the housing portion 10. In this case, the housing portion 10 may have a recess or a through hole into which the boss is inserted.

[0092] The support member 64 is configured to support the rod 63 in a manner that allows it to swing about the second axis. The support member 64 is at least partially covered by the cover 50. The support member 64 is located between one end and the other end of the rod 63. That is, the boss 631 and the holding portion 62 are located on opposite sides of the support member 64. As Figure 3 shown, the support member 64 has an insertion hole 641. The insertion hole 641 penetrates the support member 64 in the second direction. The rod 63 is inserted through the insertion hole 641.

[0093] As Figure 2 and Figure 3 shown, the rod 63 includes a support shaft 632. The support shaft 632 projects from the rod 63 in the first direction along the second axis. The support member 64 has a support hole 642. The support shaft 632 is inserted through the support hole 642. This allows the rod 63 to swing about the second axis relative to the support member 64. A structure in which the rod 63 has a support hole and the support member 64 includes a support shaft to be inserted through the support hole may also be employed.

[0094] The support member 64 extends in the third direction. The end face of the support member 64 in the third direction that is closer to the electrical contact surface 611 among the two end faces in the third direction includes a first inclined surface 643. The first inclined surface 643 is inclined with respect to the second direction and the third direction. The end face of the support member 64 in the third direction that is farther from the electrical contact surface 611 among the two end faces in the third direction includes a second inclined surface 644. The second inclined surface 644 is inclined with respect to the second direction and the third direction. The distance between the first and second inclined surfaces 643, 644 in the third direction gradually decreases as it approaches the developing roller 30.

[0095] <3. Insertion Operation>

[0096] The insertion operation of the developing cartridge 1 relative to the drawer unit 9 will be described below. Figure 4 andFigure 5 FIG. Figure 5 is a view showing a state in which the developing cartridge 1 is inserted into a slot 90 of the drawer unit 9. In Figure 5 , the cover 50 is omitted in order to clearly show the IC chip assembly 60.

[0097] As Figure 4 and Figure 5 shown, each slot 90 of the drawer unit 9 includes a first guide plate 91 and a second guide plate 92. The first and second guide plates 91, 92 each extend in a first and a second direction. The first guide plate 91 includes an electrical contact point 910. The electrical contact point 910 is an electrical contact point capable of contacting the electrical contact surface 611 of the IC chip 61. For example, a conductive metal is used as the material of the electrical contact point 910.

[0098] The first guide plate 91 includes a first holding surface 911. The first holding surface 911 is inclined such that the first holding surface 911 gradually approaches the second guide plate 92 as it goes toward the photosensitive drum 93. The second guide plate 92 includes a second holding surface 921. The second holding surface 921 is inclined such that it gradually approaches the first guide plate 91 as it goes toward the photosensitive drum 93. The first and second holding surfaces 911, 921 face each other in a third direction.

[0099] As Figure 4 and Figure 5 shown, in a state where the developing cartridge 1 is inserted into the slot 90, the first inclined surface 643 of the support member 64 contacts the first holding surface 911, and the second inclined surface 644 of the support member 64 contacts the second holding surface 921. As a result, the support member 64 is positioned relative to the drawer unit 9 in the second and third directions. When the housing portion 10 of the developing cartridge 1 is further pushed into the slot 90, the boss 631 of the rod 63 contacts the edge portion of the through hole 53 of the cover 50. As a result, the housing portion 10 is positioned relative to the drawer unit 9 in the second direction.

[0100] As Figure 5 shown, when the developing cartridge 1 is inserted into the slot 90, the rod 63 is in the third position by the weight of the holding portion 62 and the IC chip 61. Therefore, the electrical contact surface 611 of the IC chip 61 is in a retracted position. This prevents the electrical contact surface 611 from rubbing against the electrical contact point 910 when the developing cartridge 1 is inserted into the slot 90. Hereinafter, the position of the housing portion 10 relative to the drawer unit 9 before the rotation operation after the developing cartridge 1 is inserted into the slot 90 is referred to as the "first position". In a state where the housing portion 10 is in the first position, the electrical contact point 910 and the electrical contact surface 611 do not contact each other.

[0101] <4. Rotation Operation>

[0102] The rotation operations of the housing portion 10 and the cover 50 after the developing cartridge 1 is inserted into the slot 90 are described below. Figure 6 and Figure 7This is a diagram showing a rotation operation. In Figure 7 In order to clearly show the IC chip assembly 60, the cover 50 is omitted.

[0103] As Figure 6 and Figure 7 shown, the housing portion 10 has a columnar protrusion 15. The columnar protrusion 15 extends in a first direction from a first outer surface 11 of the housing portion 10. The columnar protrusion 15 is exposed and not covered by the cover 50.

[0104] After the developing cartridge 1 is inserted into the slot 90, the housing portion 10 and the cover 50 rotate about the developing roller 30. Specifically, the position of the housing portion 10 relative to the drawer unit 9 changes from Figure 4 and Figure 5 the first position described to Figure 6 and Figure 7 the second position described. That is, as Figure 6 and Figure 7 shown by the dashed arrows in, the housing portion 10 tilts in a third direction. At this time, the columnar protrusion 15 of the housing portion 10 contacts the pressing member 94 of the drawer unit 9. The pressing member 94 presses the columnar protrusion 15 toward the photosensitive drum 93. When the columnar protrusion 15 is configured to receive pressure, the surface of the developing roller 30 is pressed against the surface of the photosensitive drum 93. That is, the developing roller 30 and the photosensitive drum 93 are held in a contact state where the surfaces of the developing roller 30 and the photosensitive drum 93 are in contact with each other.

[0105] In addition, when the housing portion 10 and the cover 50 rotate about the developing roller 30 during the rotation operation, the edge portion 531 of the through hole 53 of the cover 50 presses the boss 631 of the rod 63, causing the boss 631 to move in the third direction. That is, in the present embodiment, the boss 631 serves as a pressed portion that receives pressure during the rotation operation. When the boss 631 moves in the third direction, the rod 63 swings from the third position to the fourth position about the second axis. As a result, the electrical contact surface 611 of the IC chip 61 swings from the retracted position to the advanced position. Consequently, the electrical contact surface 611 contacts the electrical contact point 910. That is, when the position of the housing portion 10 relative to the drawer unit 9 becomes the second position, the electrical contact surface 611 contacts the electrical contact point 910. This allows the control unit of the image forming apparatus to perform at least one of reading information from the IC chip 61 and writing information into the IC chip 61.

[0106] If the electrical contact surface 611 comes into contact with the electrical contact point 910 midway through the insertion of the developing cartridge 1 into the slot 90, the electrical contact surface 611 moves in the second direction while contacting the electrical contact point 910. In this case, friction is likely to occur between the electrical contact surface 611 and the electrical contact point 910. However, in the structure according to the present embodiment, after the developing cartridge 1 is inserted into the slot 90 and after the position of the support member 64 is fixed, the electrical contact surface 611 is brought into contact with the electrical contact point 910 by swinging the lever 63. Therefore, after the electrical contact surface 611 comes into contact with the electrical contact point 910, the contact position of the electrical contact surface 611 with respect to the electrical contact point 910 hardly changes. This can suppress the electrical contact surface 611 from rubbing against the electrical contact point 910.

[0107] In particular, in the present embodiment, the length from the second axis to the electrical contact surface 611 is greater than the length from the second axis to the boss 631 that serves as the pressed portion. Therefore, the distance that the electrical contact surface 611 moves through the swinging operation is longer than the distance that the boss 631 moves through the swinging operation. That is, by making the moving distance of the electrical contact surface 611 larger, the electrical contact surface 611 can be made to contact the electrical contact point 910 more reliably.

[0108] <5. Separation operation>

[0109] After the above-described insertion operation and rotation operation are completed, the image forming apparatus can perform a "separation operation" that temporarily separates the developing roller 30 from the photosensitive drum 93. Hereinafter, this separation operation will be described. Figure 8 and Figure 9 are diagrams showing the state in which the separation operation is performed. In Figure 9 in order to clearly show the IC chip assembly 60, the cover 50 is omitted.

[0110] In the case of performing the separation operation, a lever (not shown) of the drawer unit 9 is pressed by a driving force from the image forming apparatus. Thus, the separation member 95 of the drawer unit 9 moves in the second direction toward the pressing member 94. Then, the separation member 95 comes into contact with the columnar projection 15 and presses the columnar projection 15 in the direction away from the photosensitive drum 93 against the pressure of the pressing member 94. Then, as shown by the dashed arrows in Figure 8 and Figure 9 the housing portion 10 of the developing cartridge 1, the developing roller 30, and the cover 50 move in the second direction. As a result, the developing roller 30 and the photosensitive drum 93 are separated from each other.

[0111] At this time, the boss 631 of the lever 63 moves relatively in the second direction along the edge portion 531 of the through hole 53. That is, in the present embodiment, a part of the surface constituting the edge portion 531 of the through hole 53 serves as a guide surface for guiding the boss 631 in the second direction.

[0112] Regardless of the contact state before the separation operation ( Figure 6 and Figure 7 the state shown) or the separated state after the separation operation ( Figure 8 and Figure 9 the state shown), the positions of the support member 64, the rod 63, the holding portion 62, and the IC chip 61 relative to the drawer unit 9 do not change. That is, the rod 63 is held in the fourth position, and the electrical contact surface 611 is held in the advanced position, while the housing portion 10, the developing roller 30, and the cover 50 move in the second direction relative to the drawer unit 9, the support member 64, the rod 63, the holding portion 62, and the IC chip 61.

[0113] Therefore, during the separation operation, the housing portion 10, the developing roller 30, and the cover 50 move in the second direction, while the position of the electrical contact surface 611 relative to the drawer unit 9 does not change. Therefore, the electrical contact surface 611 remains in contact with the electrical contact point 910. In addition, the friction of the electrical contact surface 611 during the separation operation can be reduced.

[0114] In the present embodiment, the direction (separation direction) in which the developing roller 30 is separated from the photosensitive drum 93 during the separation operation is the second direction. However, the separation direction may be a direction other than the second direction. The separation direction may be any direction as long as it intersects the first direction.

[0115] <6. Variation>

[0116] Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment. The following describes each variation in terms of the differences from the above embodiment.

[0117] <6-1. First Variation>

[0118] Figure 10 is a partially exploded perspective view of the developing cartridge 1 according to the first variation. Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the developing cartridge 1 cut along a plane perpendicular to the first direction near the IC chip assembly 60 according to the first variation.

[0119] The difference between the first variation and the above embodiment lies in the structure of the rod 63 and the structure of the cover 50 that supports the rod 63. In this variation, the rod 63 has a through hole 633 instead of the boss 631. The cover 50 includes a boss 54 that is inserted into the through hole 633 of the rod 63 instead of the through hole 53 into which the boss 631 is inserted.

[0120] In Figure 10 and Figure 11In the illustrated modification, the cover 50 includes a boss 54. The boss 54 extends in the first direction. The rod 63 has a through hole 633. The through hole 633 penetrates one end portion of the rod 63 in the first direction. The through hole 633 and the holding portion 62 are located on opposite sides with respect to the support member 64.

[0121] The boss 54 of the cover 50 is inserted through the through hole 633 of the rod 63. The dimension (inner dimension) of the through hole 633 in the second direction is larger than the dimension (outer dimension) of the boss 54 in the second direction. This allows both the rod 63 and the holding portion 62 to move together with the through hole 633 in the second direction with respect to the housing portion 10 and the cover 50. When the rod 63 and the holding portion 62 move in the second direction, the IC chip 61 including the electrical contact surface 611 also moves in the second direction together with the holding portion 62.

[0122] Furthermore, the dimension (inner dimension) of the through hole 633 in the third direction is larger than the dimension (outer dimension) of the boss 54 in the third direction. This allows one end portion of the rod 63 to move in the third direction together with the through hole 633 with respect to the housing portion 10 and the cover 50. When one end portion of the rod 63 moves in the third direction, the rod 63 swings about the second axis.

[0123] During the rotation operation, the position of the housing portion 10 with respect to the drawer unit 9 changes from the first position to the second position. At this time, the boss 54 of the cover 50 presses against the edge portion 634 of the through hole 633 of the rod 63. As a result, one end portion of the rod 63 moves in the third direction. That is, in the first modification, the edge portion 634 of the through hole 633 serves as the portion to be pressed that receives pressure during the rotation operation. When one end portion of the rod 63 moves in the third direction, the rod 63 swings from the third position to the fourth position about the second axis. Therefore, the electrical contact surface 611 of the IC chip 61 swings from the retracted position to the advanced position. As a result, the electrical contact surface 611 comes into contact with the electrical contact point 910.

[0124] During the separation operation, the boss 54 of the cover 50 moves in the second direction along the edge portion 634 of the through hole 633. That is, in the first modification, a part of the surface constituting the edge portion 634 of the through hole 633 serves as a guide surface for guiding the boss 54 in the second direction.

[0125] The cover 50 may include a plurality of bosses 54. In this case, the rod 63 may have one or more through holes 633 into which the plurality of bosses 54 are inserted. The rod 63 may have a recess instead of the through hole 633 into which the boss 54 is inserted. The housing portion 10 may include a boss that protrudes toward the first outer surface 11 in the first direction. In this case, the rod 63 may have a recess or a through hole into which the boss of the housing portion 10 is inserted.

[0126] <6-2. Second modification example>

[0127] Figure 12 is a partially exploded perspective view of the developing cartridge 1 according to the second modification example. Figure 13 is a partial front view of the developing cartridge 1 according to the second modification example, obtained by assembling Figure 12 the disassembled components shown.

[0128] The second modification example is different from the above-described embodiment in the structure of the rod 63 and the structure of the support member 64 that supports the rod 63. In this modification example, the rod 63 has a through hole 633 instead of the boss 631. The lid 50 includes a boss 54 that is inserted into the through hole 633 of the rod 63 instead of the through hole 53 into which the boss 631 is inserted. The housing portion 10 also has an insertion hole 112 in the first outer surface 11, and the boss of the lid 50 is inserted into the insertion hole 112. In addition, the support member 64 includes a first support member 64A and a second support member 64B that are assembled together. Although Figure 12 and Figure 13 the IC chip 61 shown includes four electrical contact surfaces 611, in the above-described embodiment, the number of electrical contact surfaces 611 may also be three.

[0129] As Figure 12 shown, the support member 64 includes a first support member 64A and a second support member 64B. The first support member 64A and the second support member 64B are arranged side by side in the third direction. The support member 64 is assembled by assembling the first support member 64A and the second support member 64B. The first support member 64A includes a groove 64A1 that extends in the third direction. The second support member 64B includes a protrusion 64B1 that extends in the third direction. As Figure 12 shown by the dashed line in, when the first support member 64A and the second support member 64B are assembled together, the protrusion 64B1 is inserted into the groove 64A1. In addition, the second support member 64B includes a protrusion 64B2 that extends in the third direction, the first support member 64A includes a groove (not shown) that extends in the third direction, and the protrusion 64B2 is inserted into the groove. In addition, the second support member 64B includes a protrusion 64B3 that extends in the third direction, the first support member 64A has a groove (not shown) that extends in the third direction, and the protrusion 64B3 is inserted into the groove. In addition, the second support member 64B includes a protrusion 64B4 that extends in the third direction, the first support member 64A includes a groove (not shown) that extends in the third direction, and the protrusion 64B4 is inserted into the groove.

[0130] The first support member 64A also includes a support groove 642A that extends in the third direction. In a state where the first support member 64A and the second support member 64B are assembled together, a support hole 642B is formed between the support groove 642A and the second support member 64B. The support shaft 632 of the rod 63 is inserted into the support hole 642B to be supported thereby.

[0131] Similar to the first modification example, the rod 63 has a through hole 633. The cover 50 includes a boss 54. The boss 54 protrudes in the first direction toward the housing portion 10. The first outer surface 11 of the housing portion 10 includes a protrusion 111 that protrudes toward the cover 50 in the first direction. The protrusion 111 has an insertion hole 112. When the cover 50 is fixed to the first outer surface 11 of the housing portion 10, the boss 54 of the cover 50 is inserted into the insertion hole 112.

[0132] The boss 54 of the cover 50 is inserted through the through hole 633 of the rod 63 and then into the insertion hole 112 of the protrusion 111. This causes the rod 63 and the holding portion 62 to move relative to the housing portion 10 and the cover 50 in the second direction together with the through hole 633. When the rod 63 and the holding portion 62 move in the second direction, the IC chip 61 including the electrical contact surface 611 also moves in the second direction together with the holding portion 62.

[0133] The cover 50 has a third opening 52A that faces the second opening 52 in the third direction. The second opening 52 and the third opening 52A have substantially the same size, and each has a shape large enough to allow the first support member 64A and the second support member 64B to pass through them. When the rod 63 is supported by the first support member 64A and the second support member 64B, the boss 54 of the cover 50 is inserted through the through hole 633 of the rod 63, thereby fixing the cover 50 to the first outer surface 11 of the housing portion 10. Then, the first support member 64A and the second support member 64B are inserted through the second opening 52 and the third opening 52A, respectively. As a result, the rod 63 is supported by the support member 64 obtained by assembling the first support member 64A and the second support member 64B together.

[0134] When the developing cartridge 1 is inserted into the slot 90, the first inclined surface 643 of the support member 64 contacts the first holding surface 911 (see Figure 5 ), and the second inclined surface 644 of the support member 64 contacts the second holding surface 921 (see Figure 4 and Figure 5 ). As a result, the support member 64 is positioned relative to the drawer unit 9 in the second and third directions. When the housing portion 10 of the developing cartridge 1 is further pushed into the slot 90, the boss 54 of the cover 50 contacts the edge of the through hole 633 of the rod 63. As a result, the housing portion 10 is positioned relative to the drawer unit 9 in the second direction.

[0135] <6-3. Third modification example>

[0136] Figure 14 is a diagram showing the state during the rotation operation of the developing cartridge 1 according to the third modification example.

[0137] The difference between the third modification example and the above-described embodiment is that the entire support member 64 is not a rigid body, but rather the support member 64 is capable of being stretched or compressed. In this modification example, the support member 64 includes a first support member 71 having a first contact surface 711, a second support member 72 having a second contact surface 721, and a pressing member 73 instead of the first and second inclined surfaces 643 and 644.

[0138] The support member 64 includes a first support member 71, a second support member 72, and a pressing member 73. The first support member 71 and the second support member 72 are arranged side by side in the third direction. The pressing member 73 is located between the first and second support members 71 and 72 in the third direction.

[0139] The second support member 72 has a support hole 642. The support shaft 632 of the rod 63 is inserted into the support hole 642. This allows the rod 63 to be able to swing relative to the support member 64 about the second axis. A structure in which the rod 63 has a support hole and the second support member 72 has a support shaft inserted into the support hole may also be employed.

[0140] The first and second support members 71 and 72 are connected to each other at the hinge portion 70. The first and second support members 71 and 72 are capable of rotating about an axis extending in the first direction along the hinge portion 70. The first support member 71 includes a first contact surface 711. The first contact surface 711 is located at one end portion of the support member 64 in the third direction. The second support member 72 includes a second contact surface 721. The second contact surface 721 is located at the other end portion of the support member 64 in the third direction.

[0141] The pressing member 73 is stretched or compressed in the third direction. One end of the pressing member 73 in the third direction is connected to the first support member 71, and the other end of the pressing member 73 in the third direction is connected to the second support member 72. The pressing member 73 is, for example, a coil spring as an elastic member. Alternatively, instead of the coil spring, other elastic members such as a torsion spring may be used.

[0142] As Figure 14As shown, in a state where the developing cartridge 1 is inserted into the insertion slot 90, a first contact surface 711 of the first support member 71 contacts the first guide plate 91. Further, a second contact surface 721 of the second support member 72 contacts the second guide plate 92. As a result, the first and second support members 71 and 72 approach each other in a third direction, such that a length of the pressing member 73 in the third direction is shorter than a natural length of the pressing member 73, and a repulsive force in the third direction is generated in the pressing member 73. Accordingly, the first support member 71 and the second support member 72 are respectively pressed against the first guide plate 91 and the second guide plate 92. As a result, the first and second support members 71 and 72 are positioned between the first and second guide plates 91 and 92 in second and third directions. That is, the support member 64 is positioned in second and third directions with respect to the slot 90.

[0143] <6-4. Fourth Modification Example>

[0144] Figure 15 is a partially exploded perspective view of the developing cartridge 1 according to the fourth modification example. Figure 16 is a partially exploded perspective view of the developing cartridge 1 according to the fourth modification example in a state where the cover 50 is fixed to the developing cartridge 1.

[0145] The fourth modification example is different from the above-described embodiment in that a pressing member that swings the rod 63 is used. In the present modification example, the rod 63 includes a boss 631 having a protrusion 631A in a substantially flat plate shape instead of the boss 631 having a substantially cylindrical shape. The housing portion 10 also has an insertion hole 114 in a first outer surface 11, and the boss 631 of the rod 63 is inserted into the insertion hole 114. Further, the support member 64 includes first and second support members 64A and 64B assembled to each other. Although Figure 15 and Figure 16 the IC chip 61 shown in includes four electrical contact surfaces 611, in the above-described embodiment, the number of the electrical contact surfaces 611 may also be three.

[0146] As Figure 15 and Figure 16As shown, the first outer surface 11 of the housing portion 10 includes a protrusion 113 protruding in the first direction. The protrusion 113 has an insertion hole 114 extending in the first direction. The insertion hole 114 faces the through hole 53 of the cover 50 in the first direction. The size and shape of the insertion hole 114 in the first direction are substantially the same as the size and shape of the through hole 53. The size (inner dimension) of the through hole 53 and the insertion hole 114 in the second direction is larger than the size (outer dimension) of the boss 631 in the second direction. The size (inner dimension) of the through hole 633 and the insertion hole 114 in the third direction is larger than the size (outer dimension) of the boss 631 in the third direction. One end portion of the boss 631 of the rod 63 in the first direction is inserted through the through hole 53. The other end of the boss 631 of the rod 63 in the first direction is inserted into the insertion hole 114.

[0147] The above structure allows the rod 63 and the holding portion 62 to move relative to the housing portion 10 and the cover 50 together with the boss 631 in the second direction. When both the rod 63 and the holding portion 62 move in the second direction, the IC chip 61 including the electrical contact surface 611 also moves in the second direction together with the holding portion 62. One end portion of the rod 63 can move relative to the housing portion 10 and the cover 50 together with the boss 631 in the third direction. When one end portion of the rod 63 moves in the third direction, the rod 63 swings about the second axis.

[0148] In the fourth modification, the boss 631 of the rod 63 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape extending in the first direction. A protrusion 631A is located on one surface of the rectangular parallelepiped shape that intersects the third direction. The protrusion 631A is a column extending in the third direction and has a cross shape in a plan view seen along the third direction.

[0149] The IC chip assembly 60 includes a pressing member 74 for swinging the rod 63 about the second axis. The pressing member 74 is supported by the protrusion 631A. The pressing member 74 is, for example, a helical spring as an elastic member. Alternatively, instead of the helical spring, other elastic members such as a torsion spring can be used. The pressing member 74 is stretched or compressed in the third direction. One end of the pressing member 74 in the third direction is supported by the boss 631. The other end of the pressing member 74 in the third direction is supported by the inner wall surface of the cover 50. The pressing member 74 is supported by the boss 631 and the inner wall surface of the cover 50 while being compressed shorter than its natural length.

[0150] As described in the second modification, the support member 64 includes a first support member 64A and a second support member 64B. The rod 63 is supported by the support member 64 obtained by assembling the first and second support members 64A and 64B. The support member 64 is assembled in the same manner as in the second modification. That is, the cover 50 is fixed to the first outer surface 11 of the housing portion 10, and then the first and second support members 64A and 64B are respectively inserted into the second opening 52 and the third opening 52A.

[0151] When the developing cartridge 1 is inserted into the slot 90, the first inclined surface 643 of the support member 64 contacts the first holding surface 911 (see Figure 5 ), and the second inclined surface 644 of the support member 64 contacts the second holding surface 921 (see Figure 4 and Figure 5 ). As a result, the support member 64 is positioned relative to the drawer unit 9 in the second and third directions. When the housing portion 10 of the developing cartridge 1 is further pushed into the slot 90, the boss 631 of the rod 63 contacts the edge of the through hole 53 of the cover 50 or the edge of the insertion hole 114 of the housing portion 10. As a result, the housing portion 10 is positioned relative to the drawer unit 9 in the second direction.

[0152] Figure 17 FIG. is a view showing a state during the rotation operation of the developing cartridge 1 according to the fourth modification.

[0153] After the developing cartridge 1 is inserted into the slot 90, both the housing portion 10 and the cover 50 rotate about the developing roller 30. As shown by the dashed arrow in Figure 17 , the housing portion 10 is inclined relative to the slot 90 in the third direction from the position where the developing cartridge 1 is inserted into the slot 90. At this time, the columnar projection 15 of the housing portion 10 contacts a pressing member (not shown) of the drawer unit 9. As a result, the developing roller 30 is pressed against the photosensitive drum 93. That is, the developing roller 30 and the photosensitive drum 93 are kept in contact.

[0154] In addition, when both the housing portion 10 and the cover 50 rotate about the developing roller 30 during the rotation operation, the length of the pressing member 74 in the third direction becomes shorter than the natural length of the pressing member 74, which causes a repulsive force to be generated in the pressing member 74 in the third direction. Therefore, when the boss 631 moves in the third direction, the rod 63 swings from the third position to the fourth position about the second axis. As a result, the electrical contact surface of the IC chip 61 swings from the retracted position to the advanced position. As a result, the electrical contact surface contacts the electrical contact point of the first guide plate 91.

[0155] Figure 18 FIG. is a view showing a state in which the developing cartridge 1 according to the fourth modification performs a separating operation.

[0156] With Figure 8 AndFigure 9 , during the separation operation, the housing 10 of the developing cartridge 1, the developing roller 30 and the cover 50 move in the second direction. As a result, the developing roller 30 and the photosensitive drum 93 are separated from each other. At this time, the length of the pressing member 74 in the third direction is shorter than the natural length of the pressing member 74. The electrical contact surface 611 is kept in contact with the electrical contact point of the first guide plate 91 by the repulsive force of the pressing member 74 in the third direction.

[0157] That is, the positions of the support member 64, the rod 63, the holding portion 62, and the IC chip 61 relative to the drawer unit 9 are in the contact state before the separation operation ( Figure 17 state shown) and in the separated state after the separation operation ( Figure 18 That is, the rod 63 remains in the fourth position, the electrical contact surface 611 remains in the forward position, and the housing 10, the developing roller 30 and the cover 50 move in the second direction relative to the drawer unit 9, the supporting member 64, the rod 63, the holding portion 62 and the IC chip 61.

[0158] <6-5. Fifth Modification>

[0159] Figure 19 2 is a diagram showing a state during a rotation operation of the developing cartridge 1 according to a fifth modification.

[0160] In the above embodiment, the first and second inclined surfaces 643 and 644 of the support member 64 are in contact with the first retaining surface 911 and the second retaining surface 921, respectively. Therefore, the support member 64 is positioned relative to the drawer unit 9. The fifth modification is different from the above embodiment in the structure for positioning the support member 64. In this modification, the support member 64 includes a first matching portion 645 instead of the first and second inclined surfaces 643 and 644.

[0161] The support member 64 includes a first mating portion 645 configured to be positioned relative to the drawer unit 9. The first mating portion 645 is located at the end of the support member 64 in the third direction. The first mating portion 645 can be implemented by having a recess 646 on the lower surface of the support member 64. For example, the first mating portion 645 is a hook.

[0162] like Figure 19 As shown, when the developing cartridge 1 is inserted into the slot 90, the head end portion 922 of the second guide plate 92 in the second direction is inserted into the recess 646. Then, the head end portion 922 of the second guide plate 92 in the second direction and the first mating portion 645 are mated with each other. As a result, the supporting member 64 is positioned relative to the drawer unit 9 in the second and third directions. For example, in the case where the first mating portion 645 is a hook, the hook hooks the head end portion 922 of the second guide plate 92 in the second direction.

[0163] The support member 64 may include a mating portion that mates with the head end portion of the first guide plate 91 in the second direction. The mating portion may have the same shape as the first mating portion 645 described above. Additionally, optionally, the support member 64 may include a mating portion that mates with a portion other than the first and second guide plates 91 and 92 of the drawer unit 9. In this case, the mating portion may also have the same shape as the first mating portion 645 described above. As described above, the support member 64 may be positioned in the second and third directions by mating with a part of the image forming apparatus through the first mating portion.

[0164] <6-6. Sixth Modification>

[0165] Figure 20 FIG. is a view showing a state during the rotation operation of the developing cartridge 1 according to the sixth modification.

[0166] The sixth modification is different from the above-described embodiment in the length between the second axis and the boss 631. In this modification, the IC chip assembly 60 includes a rod 63 that is longer than the rod 63 of the above-described embodiment.

[0167] In Figure 20 the example of, in the rod 63, the length between the second axis and the boss 631 as the pressed portion is longer than the length between the second axis and the electrical contact surface 611. Therefore, through the rotation operation, the electrical contact surface 611 can contact the electrical contact point 910 with a pressure higher than the pressure received by the boss 631 from the cover 50. This can make the conduction between the electrical contact surface 611 and the electrical contact point 910 more stable.

[0168] <6-7. Seventh Modification>

[0169] Figure 21 FIG. is a view showing a state in which the developing cartridge 1 according to the seventh modification is inserted. Figure 22 FIG. is a view showing a state during the rotation operation of the developing cartridge 1 of the seventh modification.

[0170] The seventh modification is different from the above-described embodiment as follows. That is, the rod 63 is fixed at the fourth position so as to prevent the electrical contact surface 611 from separating from the electrical contact point 910 after the rotation operation of the developing cartridge 1. In this modification, the support member 64 further includes a second mating portion 647 in addition to the members of the developing cartridge 1 according to the above-described embodiment. The second mating portion is an example of a mating portion.

[0171] In Figure 21 and Figure 22In the example shown, the support member 64 includes a second engaging portion 647. The second engaging portion 647 is located at an end of the support member 64 in the third direction that is closer to the boss 631. The second engaging portion 647 includes a first engaging claw 647a and a second engaging claw 647b. The first engaging claw 647a and the second engaging claw 647b each have flexibility. The interval between the first and second engaging claws 647a and 647b is slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the boss 631.

[0172] As Figure 22 shown, during the rotation operation, the rod 63 swings from the third position to the fourth position about the second axis. Accordingly, the electrical contact surface 611 of the IC chip 61 swings from the retracted position to the advanced position, and as a result, the electrical contact surface 611 contacts the electrical contact point 910. At this time, the boss 631 moves in the third direction so as to engage with the second engaging portion 647. That is, when the electrical contact surface 611 contacts the electrical contact point 910, the boss 631 moves in the third direction to be held by the second engaging portion 647. Specifically, the boss 631 is held between the first and second engaging claws 647a and 647b, whereby the rod 63 is fixed at the fourth position. The boss 631 has a portion that is an example of a portion to be engaged.

[0173] With this structure, it is possible to further suppress the separation of the electrical contact surface 611 from the electrical contact point 910 after the rotation operation.

[0174] <6-8, Eighth Modification>

[0175] Figure 23 is a view showing a state in which the developing cartridge 1 according to the eighth modification is inserted into the drawer unit 9. Figure 24 is a view showing a state during the rotation operation of the developing cartridge 1 according to the eighth modification.

[0176] The eighth modification is different from the above-described embodiment in the following aspect. That is, the rod 63 is fixed at the fourth position so as to suppress the separation of the electrical contact surface 611 from the electrical contact point 910 after the rotation operation of the developing cartridge 1. In the present modification, the rod 63 further includes a third engaging portion 635 in addition to the structure of the developing cartridge 1 according to the above-described embodiment. The third engaging portion 635 is an example of an engaging portion.

[0177] In Figure 23 and Figure 24 the example shown, the rod 63 includes a third engaging portion 635. The third engaging portion 635 is located at one end of the rod 63 in the second direction. The third engaging portion 635 includes an engaging claw 635a that extends from one end of the rod 63 in the rotational direction about the second axis. The engaging claw 635a has flexibility. As Figure 23As shown, in a state where the developing cartridge 1 is inserted into the slot 90 of the drawer unit 9, the distance between the second axis and the engaging claw 635a is slightly shorter than the distance between the second axis and the head end portion of the second guide plate 92.

[0178] As Figure 24 shown, during the rotation operation, the lever 63 swings from the third position to the fourth position about the second axis. Accordingly, the electrical contact surface 611 of the IC chip 61 swings from the retracted position to the advanced position. Accordingly, the electrical contact surface 611 comes into contact with the electrical contact point 910. At this time, the engaging claw 635a engages with the head end portion of the second guide plate 92. That is, the engaging claw 635a catches on the head end portion of the second guide plate 92. Specifically, the engaging claw 635a contacts the surface of the second guide plate 92 opposite to the surface facing the first guide plate 91, thereby fixing the lever 63 in the fourth position. The third engaging portion 635 may include a hook instead of the engaging claw 635a. In this case, the hook catches on the head end portion of the second guide plate 92.

[0179] As described above, by providing the third engaging portion 635 that engages with a part of the image forming apparatus at one end portion of the lever 63, separation between the electrical contact surface 611 and the electrical contact point 910 after the rotation operation can be further suppressed.

[0180] <6-9. Other Modification Examples>

[0181] In the above-described embodiment, the entire lever is a rigid body. However, part or all of the lever may be an elastic body. Specifically, part or all of the lever may be made of rubber or resin having elasticity. In a case where part or all of the lever is an elastic body, the lever itself elastically deforms. This allows the electrical contact point 910 and the electrical contact surface 611 to come into contact with each other more stably. In addition, damage to the lever due to contact with other members is less likely to occur. In addition, using resin as the material of the lever helps to form a complex shape.

[0182] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the IC chip including the electrical contact surface is fixed to the outer surface of the holding portion. However, a structure may be adopted in which only the electrical contact surface that contacts the electrical contact point is fixed to the outer surface of the holding portion, and a portion other than the electrical contact surface of the IC chip is located in other parts of the developing cartridge.

[0183] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the insertion direction of the developing cartridge with respect to the drawer unit 9 coincides with the second direction. However, the insertion direction and the second direction may be different from each other.

[0184] The first and second directions do not need to be perpendicular to each other. The second and third directions do not need to be perpendicular to each other. In addition, the first and third directions do not need to be perpendicular to each other.

[0185] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the plurality of gears in the gear unit are engaged with each other by gear teeth. However, the plurality of gears in the gear unit may be engaged with each other by frictional force. For example, friction members (such as rubber) may be used on the outer circumferences of each of the two gears engaged with each other instead of the plurality of gear teeth.

[0186] The specific shape of the developing cartridge may be different from the shape shown in the drawings of the present invention. In addition, the elements in the above-described modification examples may be appropriately combined within the range of maintaining consistency.

[0187] Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A developing cartridge that can be installed in an image forming apparatus, the developing cartridge comprising: A developing roller that can rotate about a first axis extending in a first direction; A housing configured to accommodate a developer, the developing roller being located at one end of the housing in a second direction, and in a state where the developing cartridge is inserted into the image forming apparatus, the housing can rotate relative to the image forming apparatus between a first position and a second position with respect to the developing roller; A storage medium including an electrical contact surface that does not contact an electrical contact point of the image forming apparatus in a state where the housing is in the first position, and the electrical contact surface contacts the electrical contact point of the image forming apparatus in a state where the housing is in the second position, the first position being the position before the housing rotates relative to the image forming apparatus after the developing cartridge is inserted into the image forming apparatus, and the second position being the position after the housing rotates relative to the image forming apparatus after the developing cartridge is inserted into the image forming apparatus; And A rod that can swing between a third position and a fourth position together with the electrical contact surface about a second axis extending in the first direction, the rod including one end and the other end, the second axis being located between the one end and the other end of the rod, the rod being in the third position in a state where the housing is in the first position, and the rod being in the fourth position in a state where the housing is in the second position, The electrical contact surface is located at the other end of the rod, The rod includes a pressed portion located at the one end of the rod, The developing cartridge further includes a support member located on an outer surface of the housing, the support member supporting the rod in a manner that can swing about the second axis.

2. The developing cartridge according to claim 1, wherein, In a state where the housing is in the first position, the surface of the developing roller is not pressed against the surface of the photosensitive drum of the image forming apparatus, and in a state where the housing is in the second position, the surface of the developing roller is pressed against the surface of the photosensitive drum of the image forming apparatus.

3. The developing cartridge according to claim 1, wherein The housing further includes a protrusion configured to receive a pressure for pressing the surface of the developing roller against the surface of the photosensitive drum of the image forming apparatus in a state where the housing is in the second position.

4. The developing cartridge according to claim 3, characterized in that, The protrusion is located on an outer surface of the housing.

5. The developing cartridge according to claim 4, characterized in that, The protrusion extends from the outer surface.

6. The developing cartridge according to claim 1, wherein, It further includes a cover that covers at least a portion of the rod, The electrical contact surface in the second position is farther from the cover than the electrical contact surface in the first position.

7. The developing cartridge according to claim 1, wherein The rod is located on an outer surface of the housing, and the outer surface is on one side of the housing in the first direction, The developing cartridge further includes a cover that is mounted on the outer surface and covers at least a portion of the rod, In a case where the housing is in the second position, the cover and the housing can move relative to the rod and the electrical contact surface in the second direction.

8. The developing cartridge according to claim 7, wherein, The rod includes a boss extending in the first direction, The cover includes a guiding surface configured to guide the boss in the second direction. When the housing and the cover move relative to the rod and the electrical contact surface in the second direction, the boss moves along the guiding surface in the second direction.

9. The developing cartridge according to claim 8, wherein, The boss is located at one end of the rod.

10. The developing cartridge according to claim 8, wherein, In a state where the developing cartridge is inserted into the image forming apparatus, when the housing and the cover rotate from the first position to the second position with respect to the image forming apparatus about the developing roller, the guiding surface presses on the boss, causing the rod to swing from the third position to the fourth position.

11. The developing cartridge according to claim 7, characterized in that, The cover includes a boss extending in the first direction. The rod includes a guiding surface configured to guide the boss in the second direction. When the housing and the cover move relative to the rod and the electrical contact surface in the second direction, the boss moves along the guiding surface in the second direction.

12. The developing cartridge according to claim 11, wherein, The guiding surface is located at one end of the rod.

13. The developing cartridge according to claim 11, wherein, In a state where the developing cartridge is inserted into the image forming apparatus, when the housing and the cover rotate from the first position to the second position with respect to the image forming apparatus about the developing roller, the boss presses on the guiding surface, causing the rod to swing from the third position to the fourth position.

14. The developing cartridge according to claim 7, wherein At least a part of the support member is covered by the cover. The housing and the cover are capable of moving relative to the support member, the rod, and the electrical contact surface in the second direction.

15. The developing cartridge according to claim 14, wherein, When the developing cartridge is inserted into the image forming apparatus, the support member is positioned relative to the image forming apparatus.

16. The developing cartridge according to claim 14, wherein The support member is located between one end of the rod and the other end of the rod.

17. The developing cartridge according to claim 1, wherein, The rod is located on an outer surface of the housing, and the outer surface is on one side of the housing in the first direction. The support member is capable of moving relative to the housing in the second direction together with the rod and the electrical contact surface.

18. The developing cartridge according to claim 17, wherein, When the developing cartridge is inserted into the image forming apparatus, the support member is positioned relative to the image forming apparatus.

19. The developing cartridge according to claim 18, wherein, The support member is located between one end of the rod and the other end of the rod.

20. The developing cartridge according to claim 6, characterized in that, The pressed portion is configured to be pressed by one of the housing and a member fixed to the housing when the housing and the cover rotate with respect to the image forming apparatus about the developing roller in a state where the developing cartridge is inserted into the image forming apparatus. The length from the second axis to the electrical contact surface is longer than the length from the second axis to the pressed portion.

21. The developing cartridge according to claim 6, wherein, The pressed portion is configured to be pressed by one of the housing and a member fixed to the housing when the housing and the cover rotate with respect to the image forming apparatus about the developing roller in a state where the developing cartridge is inserted into the image forming apparatus. The length from the second axis to the pressed portion is longer than the length from the second axis to the electrical contact surface.

22. The developing cartridge according to claim 14, wherein, The support member extends in a third direction that intersects the first direction and the second direction, and the support member includes one end portion and the other end portion in the third direction. When the rod is in the third position, the electrical contact surface is located between the one end portion and the other end portion in the third direction. When the rod is in the fourth position, the distance between the electrical contact surface and the other end portion in the third direction is farther than the distance between the electrical contact surface and the one end portion.

23. The developing cartridge according to claim 15, wherein, The support member extends in a third direction that intersects the first direction and the second direction, the support member includes one end portion and the other end portion in the third direction, and the support member further includes a pressing member configured to press the support member in a direction from the one end portion to the other end portion.

24. The developing cartridge according to claim 15, wherein, The support member extends in a third direction that intersects the first direction and the second direction, and the support member further includes a first engaging portion located at one end portion of the support member in the third direction, and the first engaging portion is configured to cooperate with a part of the image forming apparatus.

25. The developing cartridge according to claim 17, wherein The support member includes an engaging portion. The rod includes an engaged portion located at the one end portion of the rod and configured to cooperate with the engaging portion when the rod is in the fourth position and not to cooperate with the engaging portion when the rod is in the third position.

26. The developing cartridge according to claim 1, wherein, The rod includes an engaging portion located at the one end portion of the rod and configured to cooperate with a part of the image forming apparatus when the developing cartridge is inserted into the image forming apparatus.

27. The developing cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The storage medium is capable of swinging together with the electrical contact surface.

28. The developing cartridge according to claim 1, wherein, The rod holds the electrical contact surface.

Images