Image forming apparatus

Abstract

The present application obtains an image forming apparatus, which can suppress the frame from becoming large or the plate thickness of the frame from becoming thick, compared with the case where the direction of attaching and detaching a transfer belt mechanism with respect to an apparatus main body and the direction of attaching and detaching an image holding body mechanism with respect to the apparatus main body are the same. An image holding body mechanism that supports a plurality of image holding bodies that form an image on a surface while rotating is attached and detached with respect to the apparatus main body in a first direction. Further, a transfer belt mechanism that includes a transfer belt that transfers the image of the image holding body while rotating is attached and detached with respect to the apparatus main body in a second direction that is different from the first direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an image forming apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] The image forming related unit described in Patent Document 1 includes an operating member having a first operating position. The first operating position is a state that covers part or all of the part for inserting a cleaning tool. The cleaning tool cleans the part that is the object to be cleaned. When the operating member is in the first operating position, the part facing the part for inserting the cleaning tool is provided with a cut or opening for the cleaning tool to pass through.

[0003] [Existing Technical Documents]

[0004] [Patent Literature]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-177091 Summary of the Invention

[0006] [The problem the invention aims to solve]

[0007] The image forming apparatus includes a transfer belt mechanism and an image holding mechanism. The transfer belt mechanism includes a transfer belt, and the image holding mechanism includes multiple image holders for holding the image to be transferred to the transfer belt. In this image forming apparatus, the transfer belt mechanism and the image holding mechanism are detachable from the apparatus body. Furthermore, the direction in which the transfer belt mechanism is attached or detached from the apparatus body is the same as the direction in which the image holding mechanism is attached or detached from the apparatus body. Therefore, a large opening is required in the frame of the apparatus body to allow for the attachment and detachment of each mechanism.

[0008] However, the large openings in the frame, which serves as the skeleton, reduce the frame's rigidity. Therefore, to maintain the frame's rigidity, it is necessary to increase the frame size or thicken the frame plates.

[0009] The objective of this invention is to suppress the increase in frame size or frame thickness compared to the case where the direction of the transfer belt loading and unloading mechanism relative to the device body and the direction of the image holding mechanism relative to the device body are the same.

[0010] [Technical means to solve the problem]

[0011] The image forming apparatus of the first embodiment of the present invention includes: an image holder mechanism that supports a plurality of image holders and is mounted and dismounted relative to the apparatus body along a first direction, wherein the plurality of image holders form an image on a surface while rotating; and a transfer belt mechanism that includes a transfer belt and is mounted and dismounted relative to the apparatus body along a second direction different from the first direction, wherein the transfer belt transfers the images of the plurality of image holders while rotating.

[0012] The image forming apparatus of the second embodiment of the present invention is the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment, wherein, when viewed from above, the first direction intersects the second direction, and when viewed from the side, the first direction is along the second direction.

[0013] The image forming apparatus of the third embodiment of the present invention is an image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment, wherein the image holding body mechanism is mounted and dismounted relative to the apparatus body along the rotation axis direction of a plurality of image holding bodies, and the transfer belt mechanism is mounted and dismounted relative to the apparatus body in a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis direction of the transfer belt.

[0014] The image forming apparatus of the fourth embodiment of the present invention is an image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to third embodiments, and includes a limiting member that, when the image holder mechanism is mounted on the apparatus body, limits the transfer belt mechanism mounted on the apparatus body from detaching from the apparatus body.

[0015] The image forming apparatus of the fifth embodiment of the present invention is an image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment, wherein the limiting member is a protrusion provided on the transfer belt mechanism, and when the transfer belt mechanism mounted on the apparatus body is to be detached from the apparatus body, the protrusion abuts against the image holding body mechanism.

[0016] The image forming apparatus of the sixth embodiment of the present invention is an image forming apparatus according to the fifth embodiment, wherein at least a portion of the protrusion is provided with an inhibiting member, the inhibiting member inhibiting the serpentine movement of the circumferentially rotating transfer belt.

[0017] The image forming apparatus of the seventh embodiment of the present invention is an image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment, which includes a support member. In order to detach the image holding body mechanism from the apparatus body, the support member supports the image holding body mechanism in the detached position by separating the image holding body mechanism from the transfer belt mechanism. Even when the image holding body mechanism is supported in the detached position, the limiting member also restricts the transfer belt mechanism mounted on the apparatus body from detaching from the apparatus body.

[0018] The image forming apparatus of the eighth embodiment of the present invention is an image forming apparatus according to the fifth or sixth embodiment, which includes a support member. In order to detach the image holding body mechanism from the apparatus body, the support member supports the image holding body mechanism in the separated position by separating the image holding body mechanism from the transfer belt mechanism. Even when the image holding body mechanism is supported in the separated position, the protrusion amount of the protrusion is determined to be such that the protrusion abuts against the image holding body mechanism.

[0019] The image forming apparatus of the ninth embodiment of the present invention is an image forming apparatus according to the seventh or eighth embodiment, wherein the support member has a guide surface and a support surface, the guide surface supports the image holding mechanism and guides the loading and unloading of the image holding mechanism, the support surface supports the lower end of the image holding mechanism, and the guide surface and the support surface are arranged such that their distance increases as they move toward the disassembly direction.

[0020] [The effects of the invention]

[0021] According to the first embodiment of the present invention, the image forming apparatus can suppress the increase in frame size or the increase in frame thickness compared to the case where the direction of the transfer belt loading and unloading mechanism relative to the apparatus body and the direction of the image holder loading and unloading mechanism relative to the apparatus body are the same.

[0022] According to the second embodiment of the image forming apparatus of the present invention, compared with the case where the first direction and the second direction intersect when viewed from the side, the height of the apparatus body can be suppressed from increasing.

[0023] According to the third embodiment of the image forming apparatus of the present invention, compared with the case where the image holder mechanism is loaded and unloaded in a direction inclined relative to the rotation axis direction of the image holder and the transfer belt mechanism is loaded and unloaded in a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis direction of the transfer belt, the case where the distance moved by each mechanism for loading and unloading becomes longer can be suppressed.

[0024] According to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, the image forming apparatus can suppress friction between the transfer belt and the image holder caused by the loading and unloading of the transfer belt mechanism, compared to the case where the transfer belt mechanism can be detached from the apparatus body when the image holder mechanism is installed on the apparatus body.

[0025] According to the fifth embodiment of the present invention, the image forming apparatus can restrict the transfer belt mechanism from the device body with a simple structure, compared to the case where a mechanism requiring mechanical action is used to restrict the transfer belt mechanism from the device body.

[0026] According to the sixth embodiment of the image forming apparatus of the present invention, compared with the case where the suppression member is disposed in a dedicated area, the size of the apparatus body can be suppressed.

[0027] According to the seventh embodiment of the present invention, even when the image holding mechanism is separated from the transfer belt mechanism in order to detach the image holding mechanism from the device body, the detachment of the transfer belt mechanism from the device body can be restricted.

[0028] According to the eighth embodiment of the image forming apparatus of the present invention, even when the image holding mechanism is separated from the transfer belt mechanism in order to detach the image holding mechanism from the apparatus body, the detachment of the transfer belt mechanism from the apparatus body can be restricted.

[0029] According to the ninth embodiment of the image forming apparatus of the present invention, as the image holder mechanism is moved in the disassembly direction, the image holder can be separated from the surface of the transfer printing belt. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the entire image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, with one opening / closing door and another opening / closing door arranged in the open position.

[0031] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, with one opening / closing door and the other opening / closing door arranged in a closed position.

[0032] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, with one opening / closing door and the other opening / closing door arranged in a closed position.

[0033] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, with one opening / closing door configured in an open position and the other opening / closing door configured in a closed position.

[0034] Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing the entire image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, with an opening / closing door configured in an open position and the image holding mechanism disengaged.

[0035] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing the entire image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, with both opening and closing doors configured in the open position and the image holding mechanism disengaged.

[0036] Figure 7 This is a perspective view showing the entire image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, with both opening and closing doors configured in the open position and the image holding mechanism and transfer belt mechanism disengaged.

[0037] Figure 8This is a perspective view showing the image holding mechanism included in the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 9 (A) Figure 9 (B) is a process diagram showing the disengagement process of the image holding body mechanism included in the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 10 (A) Figure 10 (B) is a process diagram showing the disengagement process of the image holding body mechanism included in the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 11 This is a perspective view showing the transfer belt mechanism included in the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 12 This is a perspective view showing the image holding mechanism and transfer belt mechanism included in the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view showing the transfer belt mechanism included in the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 14 This is an overall structural diagram illustrating the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] [Explanation of Symbols]

[0045] 10: Image forming apparatus

[0046] 10a: Main body of the device

[0047] 34: Like a body-holding mechanism

[0048] 36: Like maintaining the body

[0049] 64: Transfer Belt Mechanism

[0050] 66: Transfer Belt

[0051] 74a: Protrusion (an example of a limiting component)

[0052] 80: Suppression component

[0053] 140: Supporting component

[0054] 142: Guide rail (an example of a guide surface)

[0055] 146: Support surface Detailed Implementation

[0056] according to Figures 1 to 14An example of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. Furthermore, in the figures, arrow H indicates the vertical direction of the apparatus, arrow W indicates the width direction of the apparatus (horizontal direction), and arrow D indicates the depth direction of the apparatus (horizontal direction).

[0057] (Image forming apparatus 10)

[0058] like Figure 14 As shown, the image forming apparatus 10 of this embodiment includes, in order from the lower side to the upper side in the vertical direction (direction of arrow H): a housing 14 for housing a sheet member P which is a recording medium; a conveying unit 16 for conveying the sheet member P housed in the housing 14; an image forming unit 20 for forming an image on the sheet member P conveyed from the housing 14 by the conveying unit 16; and an image reading unit 100 for reading the image recorded in the original document.

[0059] [Containment Department 14]

[0060] The receiving section 14 includes a receiving member 26 that can be pulled out from the device body 10a of the image forming apparatus 10 towards the front side in the depth direction of the device, and a sheet member P is loaded in the receiving member 26. Furthermore, the receiving section 14 includes a delivery roller 30 that delivers the sheet member P, which is at the uppermost position loaded in the receiving member 26, to the transport path 28 that constitutes the transport section 16.

[0061] [Transportation Department 16]

[0062] The conveying section 16 includes a plurality of conveying rollers 32, which convey the sheet component P along a predetermined conveying path 28.

[0063] [Image forming unit 20]

[0064] The image forming unit 20 includes an image holding mechanism 34, which is equipped with image forming units 18Y, 18M, 18C, and 18K of four colors: yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K). Furthermore, the image forming unit 20 includes exposure devices 22Y, 22M, 22C, and 22K for each color. These exposure devices 22Y, 22M, 22C, and 22K irradiate exposure light onto the image holding units 36Y, 36M, 36C, and 36K included in the respective image forming units 18Y, 18M, 18C, and 18K. In the following description, Y, M, C, and K may sometimes be omitted unless it is necessary to distinguish them.

[0065] Furthermore, the image forming unit 20 includes a transfer belt mechanism 64, which is provided with: an annular transfer belt 66 that rotates circumferentially in the direction of arrow A in the figure; and a primary transfer roller 68 that transfers the toner image formed by the image forming units 18 of each color to the transfer belt 66.

[0066] In addition, the image forming unit 20 includes a secondary transfer roller 60 and a fixing device 62. The secondary transfer roller 60 transfers the toner image from the transfer belt 66 to the film member P. The fixing device 62 heats and presses the film member P to fix the toner image onto the film member P.

[0067] -Like the retainer mechanism 34-

[0068] The holding mechanism 34 includes four-color image forming units 18 and a frame 38 that integrally houses the four-color image forming unit units 18.

[0069] Each color image forming unit 18 includes: an image holder 36 with its rotation axis oriented in the width direction of the device; a charged roller 24 that charges the surface of the image holder 36; and a developing device 33 that develops the electrostatic latent image formed by irradiating the surface of the charged roller 24 with exposure light, thus visualizing it as a toner image. Furthermore, the four color image forming units 18Y, 18M, 18C, and 18K are arranged in this order from the front side inwards in the depth direction of the device. Here, "the front side in the depth direction of the device" refers to the side facing the user using the image forming apparatus 10. Details regarding the image holder mechanism 34 will be described later.

[0070] -Exposure device 22-

[0071] Multiple exposure devices 22 are provided for each color, and are arranged below the image holder 36 of each color in a manner that faces the image holder 36 of each color in the vertical direction of the device. Moreover, the exposure devices 22 for each color are mounted on the device body 10a of the image forming apparatus 10.

[0072] In this configuration, the exposure device 22 irradiates the surface of the charged image holder 36 with exposure light, thereby forming an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the image holder 36.

[0073] -Transfer belt mechanism 64-

[0074] The transfer belt mechanism 64 includes a transfer belt 66, a primary transfer roller 68, a pair of rollers 70 wound with the transfer belt 66 and whose rotation axis is set in the width direction of the device, and a frame 74 that integrally supports each part. The frame 76 (see reference) Figure 11 ).

[0075] A pair of rollers 70 are arranged separately in the longitudinal direction of the apparatus. A transfer belt 66 is wound around the pair of rollers 70, and image holders 36 of each color contact the transfer belt 66 from the underside of the transfer belt 66. Furthermore, multiple primary transfer rollers 68 are provided for each color and are arranged on the opposite side of the image holders 36, separated by the transfer belt 66.

[0076] In this structure, a rotational driving force is transmitted to one of the rollers 70, causing the roller 70 to rotate, thereby rotating the transfer belt 66 circumferentially in the direction of arrow A. Furthermore, the transfer roller 68 transfers the toner image formed on the image holder 36 to the circumferentially rotating transfer belt 66. Details regarding the transfer belt mechanism 64 will be described later.

[0077] -Secondary transfer roller 60, fixing device 62-

[0078] The secondary transfer roller 60 is positioned on the side opposite to the inner side of the roller 70 in the longitudinal direction of the device, separated by the transfer belt 66. Furthermore, the conveying path 28 of the sheet component P passes between the transfer belt 66 and the secondary transfer roller 60.

[0079] The fixing device 62 is disposed downstream of the secondary transfer roller 60 in the conveying direction of the film component P.

[0080] In this configuration, the secondary transfer roller 60 transfers the toner image transferred to the circumferentially rotating transfer belt 66 to the sheet member P conveyed by the transfer roller 32. Then, the fixing device 62 fixes the toner image transferred to the sheet member P onto the sheet member P.

[0081] -Image Reading Unit 100-

[0082] like Figure 3 As shown, the image reading unit 100 is disposed on the upper side of the device body 10a, and includes a document transport unit 112 for transporting original documents and a document reading unit 114 for reading original documents. Furthermore, the document transport unit 112 and the document reading unit 114 are connected by a hinge 116, and the document transport unit 112 can rotate around the hinge 116 to open and close the table glass (not shown) included in the document reading unit 114.

[0083] In this structure, the image reading unit 100 reads the image recorded in the original document transported by the original document transport unit 112, or the image recorded in the original document placed on the table glass.

[0084] (The function of an image forming apparatus)

[0085] In the image forming apparatus 10, an image is formed in the following manner.

[0086] Figure 3The image reading unit 100 reads images recorded in a manuscript transported by the manuscript transfer unit 112, or images recorded in a manuscript placed on a table glass.

[0087] Furthermore, the voltage applied Figure 14 The charged rollers 24 of each color, as shown, uniformly charge the surfaces of the image holders 36 of each color with a predetermined potential. Then, the exposure apparatus 22, based on the image data read by the image reading unit 100, irradiates the charged surfaces of the image holders 36 of each color with exposure light to form an electrostatic latent image.

[0088] Thus, an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image data is formed on the surface of the image holder 36 for each color. Then, the developing apparatus 33 for each color develops the electrostatic latent image to visualize it as a toner image. Furthermore, the toner image formed on the surface of the image holder 36 for each color is transferred to a circumferentially rotating transfer belt 66 using a primary transfer roller 68.

[0089] Therefore, the sheet component P, which is fed from the receiving member 26 to the conveying path 28 by the feed roller 30, is fed to the transfer position T where the transfer belt 66 contacts the secondary transfer roller 60. At the transfer position T, the sheet component P is held and conveyed by the transfer belt 66 and the secondary transfer roller 60, thereby transferring the toner image on the surface of the transfer belt 66 to the sheet component P.

[0090] The toner image transferred to the film component P is fixed onto the film component P by the fixing device 62. Then, the toner image on the fixed film component P is discharged to the outside of the device body 10a by the conveying roller 32.

[0091] (Main structural components)

[0092] Next, the structure of the image holding mechanism 34, the transfer belt mechanism 64, and the main body 10a of the device for mounting the image holding mechanism 34 and the transfer belt mechanism 64 will be described.

[0093] [Main body of the device 10a]

[0094] like Figure 2 As shown, the device body 10a includes a frame 120 that houses the various components inside. Furthermore, the frame 120 includes an opening and closing door 124 that opens the interior of the device body 10a to a first side (left side in the figure) in the width direction of the device, and an opening and closing door 126 that opens the interior of the device body 10a to the inside in the depth direction of the device.

[0095] In addition, such as Figure 5As shown, the device body 10a includes a frame 136 as a skeletal member, the frame 136 forming an opening 136a for attaching and detaching the image holding mechanism 34 relative to the device body 10a. Furthermore, the device body 10a includes: a pair of guide rails 142 for guiding the image holding mechanism 34 attached and detached relative to the device body 10a; and a support surface 146 for supporting the image holding mechanism 34 from below. Figure 9 (A) Figure 9 As shown in (B), the guide rail 142 is a guide surface that slopes downward toward the first side in the width direction of the device. Additionally, the support surface 146 is horizontal toward the first side in the width direction of the device. Furthermore, as... Figure 9 As shown in (A), the main body 10a of the device includes a engaged portion 130 that engages with an engaged portion 36a disposed on the image holder 36.

[0096] -Opening and closing doors 124-

[0097] like Figure 2 As shown, the opening / closing door 124 has a door body 124a and a hinge 124b installed at the lower end of the door body 124a, and the opening / closing door 124 is movable to a closed position that closes the interior of the device body 10a (see reference). Figure 2 ) and the opening position that opens the interior of the main body 10a of the device (see reference) Figure 4 ).

[0098] In this structure, such as Figure 4 As shown, when the opening / closing door 124 is moved to the open position, the end of the retaining body mechanism 34 in the device width direction is exposed to the outside.

[0099] -Opening and closing doors 126-

[0100] like Figure 2 As shown, the opening / closing door 126 has a door body 126a and a hinge 126b installed at the lower end of the door body 126a, and the opening / closing door 126 is movable to a closed position that closes the interior of the device body 10a (see reference). Figure 2 ) and the opening position that opens the interior of the main body 10a of the device (see reference) Figure 1 Additionally, such as Figure 1 As shown, a secondary transfer roller 60 is installed in the opening and closing door 126.

[0101] In this configuration, with the opening / closing door 126 moved to the open position, the end of the transfer belt mechanism 64 in the longitudinal direction is exposed to the outside.

[0102] -Frame 136-

[0103] Frame 136 is formed using sheet metal components, with the thickness direction of the plate set as the width direction of the device. For example... Figure 5 As shown, with the opening / closing door 124 moved to the open position, the frame 136 is exposed to the outside. Additionally, an opening 136a is formed in the frame 136, details of which will be described later, through which the retaining mechanism 34 is attached and detached from the device body 10a.

[0104] Furthermore, a pin 138 protruding toward a first side in the width direction of the device is installed on the upper side of the opening 136a in the frame 136 and on both ends of the device in the depth direction.

[0105] -Guide rail 142, support surface 146-

[0106] like Figure 5 As shown, a pair of guide rails 142 are arranged inside the device body 10a, and are positioned so that they can be seen from the width direction of the device through the opening 136a of the frame 136 when the image holding mechanism 34 is detached from the device body 10a. Furthermore, the cross-section of the guide rails 142 is L-shaped, and the pair of guide rails 142 are separated in the depth direction of the device and extend along the width direction of the device.

[0107] The support surface 146 is an upward-facing surface, located inside the device body 10a, and positioned so that it is visible from the width direction of the device via the opening 136a of the frame 136 when the image holder mechanism 34 is detached from the device body 10a. It is positioned on the lower side relative to the guide rail 142. Furthermore, the exposure devices 22 for each color are supported on the support surface 146.

[0108] -Stuck in section 130-

[0109] like Figure 9 As shown in (A), the engaging portion 130, which engages with the engaging portion 36a provided on the image holder 36, is disposed inside the device body 10a on the second side (left side in the figure) in the width direction of the device. Moreover, a recess 130a is formed in the engaging portion 130, which allows the engaging portion 36a of the image holder 36 to be inserted.

[0110] In this structure, the engaging portion 36a of the retainer 36 is inserted into the recess 130a of the engaged portion 130, and the engaged portion 130 engages with the engaging portion 36a. In this state, a rotational driving force is transmitted from the engaged portion 130 to the engaging portion 36a, causing the retainer 36 to rotate.

[0111] [Like the body-holding mechanism 34]

[0112] The retaining mechanism 34 is mounted and detached from the first side in the width direction of the device body 10a. Figure 8 As shown, the image holding mechanism 34 is formed into a rectangular shape with one side having the same length as the other when viewed from above, and also into a rectangular shape extending along the depth direction of the device when viewed from the width direction of the device. Furthermore, the image holding mechanism 34 includes four color image forming unit units 18Y, 18M, 18C, and 18K, and a frame 38 that houses each color image forming unit 18. Moreover, the upper portion of each color image holding body 36 included in the image forming unit 18 protrudes upwards from the opening provided in the frame 38.

[0113] In addition, such as Figure 9 As shown in (A), a locking portion 36a is provided on the second side (left side in the figure) of the image holder 36 of each color included in the image forming unit 18 in the device width direction. The locking portion 36a protrudes from the frame 38 toward the second side in the device width direction. As described above, the locking portion 36a is inserted into the recess 130a of the locked portion 130 included in the device body 10a, and the locking portion 36a engages with the locked portion 130. In addition, the image holder 36 rotates by the rotational driving force transmitted from the locked portion 130 to the locking portion 36a. Thus, the locking portion 36a is a rotational force transmission member and functions as a positioning member that determines the position of the second side of the image holder mechanism 34 in the device width direction in the vertical direction.

[0114] Furthermore, such as Figure 8 As shown, the retaining mechanism 34 has a side plate 40, which is disposed on a portion of the frame 38 in the device width direction, and the plate thickness direction is set in the device width direction. The side plate 40 is formed into a rectangular shape that extends along the device depth direction when viewed from the device width direction. In addition, on the upper side of the side plate 40, and on both ends in the device depth direction, pins 138 for mounting in the frame 136 are formed (see reference). Figure 5 The pin 138 is inserted into the through hole 40a. By inserting the pin 138 into the through hole 40a, the position of the first side of the image retaining mechanism 34 in the vertical direction in the width direction is determined. In this way, the through hole 40a and the pin 138 function as positioning components that determine the position of the first side of the image retaining mechanism 34 in the vertical direction in the width direction.

[0115] Furthermore, in the frame 38, a pair of protrusions 42 are formed on the second side in the width direction of the device, protruding towards the front and inner sides in the depth direction of the device.

[0116] In this structure, with the retaining mechanism 34 installed on the main body 10a of the device, such as Figure 9As shown in (A), the engaging portion 36a of the image holder 36 is inserted into the recess 130a of the engaging portion 130 of the device body 10a, thereby engaging with the engaging portion 130. Furthermore, the pin 138 mounted on the frame 136 is inserted into the through hole 40a formed in the side plate 40 of the image holder mechanism 34. Moreover, the image holder 36 contacts the transfer belt 66.

[0117] Furthermore, with the opening / closing door 124 configured in the open position (refer to...) Figure 4 The operator holds the side panel 40 of the frame 38, and as... Figure 9 As shown in (B) and (A) of 10, the image holding mechanism 34 is moved toward the first side in the width direction of the device, thereby pulling the pin 138 out of the through hole 40a. Furthermore, in this state, the front end of the engaging portion 36a of the image holding body 36 is inserted into the recess 130a of the engaged portion 130.

[0118] Then, the operator moves the side panel 40 being held downwards, as... Figure 10 As shown in (A), the side plate 40 is placed on the support surface 146. Consequently, the image holder mechanism 34 is tilted relative to the width direction of the device, and the image holder 36 separates from the transfer printing belt 66. Furthermore, the protrusion 42 formed on the frame 38 is placed on the guide rail 142. Thus, in order to detach the image holder mechanism 34 from the device body 10a, the operator separates the image holder mechanism 34 from the transfer printing belt mechanism 64 and positions the image holder mechanism 34 in the separated position.

[0119] Furthermore, the guide rail 142 and the support surface 146 constitute a support member 140 that supports the image holding body mechanism 34 in the separated position.

[0120] That is, the "separation position of the image holding mechanism 34" refers to the position where the image holding mechanism 34 will not rub against the transfer belt 66 even if it is moved in the disassembly direction (the width direction of the device in this embodiment) in order to detach the image holding mechanism 34 from the device body 10a. In this embodiment, it refers to the position where the image holding mechanism 34 is separated from the transfer belt mechanism 64 in the vertical direction.

[0121] Furthermore, the operator, such as Figure 10 As shown in (B), the image holding mechanism 34 is moved in an inclined state so that the image holding mechanism 34 disengages from the device body 10a (see reference). Figure 5Here, the guide rail 142 is inclined downward toward the first side in the width direction of the device. Additionally, the support surface 146 extends horizontally toward the first side in the width direction of the device. That is, the guide rail 142 and the support surface 146 are configured such that their distance decreases as they move toward the disassembly direction (detachment direction). Therefore, as the image holding mechanism 34 is moved in the disassembly direction, the holding mechanism 34 rotates about its front end in the disassembly direction, thereby causing its rear end in the disassembly direction to descend downward, preventing the image holding mechanism 36 from rubbing against the transfer belt 66.

[0122] When the image holding mechanism 34, detached from the device body 10a, is installed on the device body 10a, the image holding mechanism 34 is installed on the device body 10a through the reverse process described above. Thus, the image holding mechanism 34 is attached and detached relative to the device body 10a along the device width direction. In other words, the image holding mechanism 34 is attached and detached relative to the device body 10a by moving it along the rotation axis direction of the image holding body 36. The device width direction is an example of the first direction.

[0123] [Transfer Belt Mechanism 64]

[0124] The transfer belt mechanism 64 is loaded and unloaded from the inside of the device body 10a in the longitudinal direction. For example... Figure 11 As shown, the transfer belt mechanism 64 is formed into a rectangular shape with one side having the same length as the other when viewed from above, and also into a rectangular shape extending along the depth direction of the device when viewed from the width direction of the device. Furthermore, the transfer belt mechanism 64 includes a transfer belt 66 and four primary transfer rollers 68 (see reference). Figure 14 ), a pair of rollers 70 (reference) Figure 14 ), the supporting frames 74 and 76, and the suppressing member 80 that suppresses the serpentine movement of the transfer belt 66 (see reference). Figure 13 ).

[0125] Figure 14 The pair of rollers 70 shown have their rotation axis oriented in the width direction of the device and are arranged separately in the depth direction of the device. The transfer belt 66 is formed in a loop and extends in the depth direction of the device by being wound around the pair of rollers 70. Four primary transfer rollers 68 are arranged inside the transfer belt 66 and are spaced apart in the depth direction of the device. Moreover, a rotational driving force is transmitted to any one of the rollers 70, causing one roller 70 to rotate, thereby causing the transfer belt 66 to rotate circumferentially.

[0126] like Figure 11As shown, frame 74 is disposed on a first side of the device width direction relative to transfer belt 66, and frame 76 is disposed on a second side of the device width direction relative to transfer belt 66. Furthermore, frame 74 and frame 76 clamp transfer belt 66, primary transfer roller 68 and a pair of rollers 70 from the device width direction, thereby supporting these components.

[0127] Furthermore, in the frame 74, a downwardly protruding protrusion 74a is formed on the inner side of the device in the longitudinal direction. Moreover, with the transfer belt mechanism 64 and the image holding mechanism 34 installed in the device body 10a, as... Figure 12 As shown, the protrusion 74a is positioned near the front side of the device in the longitudinal direction relative to the frame 38 of the image holding mechanism 34. Therefore, when the transfer belt mechanism 64, which is mounted on the device body 10a, is moved inward in the longitudinal direction to disengage the transfer belt mechanism 64 while the image holding mechanism 34 is mounted on the device body 10a, the protrusion 74a abuts against the frame 38 of the image holding mechanism 34. Thus, the protrusion 74a functions as a movement limiting member that restricts the movement of the transfer belt mechanism 64.

[0128] Furthermore, the amount of protrusion of the protrusion 74a is determined in such a way that even when the image retainer mechanism 34 is positioned in a separated position to detach it from the device body 10a (see reference 10a 2000). Figure 10 Under (A), the protrusion 74a also abuts against the frame 38 of the image retaining mechanism 34. Specifically, as Figure 10 As shown in (A), the lower end d01 of the protrusion 74a is located below the upper end d02 of the portion disposed in the image holding mechanism 34 in the separated position at the same position as the protrusion 74a in the device width direction. The protrusion 74a is an example of a limiting member.

[0129] In addition, such as Figure 13 As shown, at least a portion of a serpentine suppressing member 80 for suppressing the circumferential rotation of the transfer belt 66 is disposed on the protrusion 74a. Furthermore, "serpentine" refers to a state in which the transfer belt 66 rotates circumferentially while continuously changing on one side and the other side of the roller 70 on which the transfer belt 66 is wound.

[0130] The protrusion 74a is disposed on the first side in the width direction of the device relative to the roller 70 disposed on the front side in the depth direction of the device. The suppressing member 80 provided on the protrusion 74a includes a disc member 82 mounted on the shaft portion 70a of the roller 70, a pressing member 84, and a compression coil spring 86.

[0131] The disc member 82 is mounted on the first side of the device width direction in the shaft portion 70a, and a groove 82a extending in the circumferential direction is formed in the disc member 82. Additionally, a pressing member 84 is disposed on the lower side of the disc member 82, with its upper end inserted into the groove 82a. A compression coil spring 86 extends in the device width direction and is disposed in a compressed state between a side plate 78 and the lower end portion of the pressing member 84. The side plate 78 forms a protrusion 74a and is disposed on the second side of the device width direction relative to the pressing member 84.

[0132] Furthermore, the movement of the second side end of the shaft portion 70a of the roller 70 in the device width direction is restricted in the device width direction. Moreover, the first side end of the shaft portion 70a of the roller 70 in the device width direction is movably supported in the vertical direction of the device. Thus, the roller 70 is supported in a swingable manner.

[0133] In this structure, the force applied by the compression coil spring 86 is applied to the disc member 82 via the pressing member 84. Specifically, a force is applied to the disc member 82 on a first side in the width direction of the device. As a result, the tilting of the shaft portion 70a relative to the width direction of the device is suppressed, thereby suppressing the serpentine movement of the transfer belt 66 wound around the roller 70.

[0134] Furthermore, in order to load and unload the transfer belt mechanism 64 from the inner side of the device in the longitudinal direction relative to the device body 10a, a guide rail (not shown) is provided in the device body 10a to guide the transfer belt mechanism 64 in the longitudinal direction of the device. Moreover, the device body 10a does not contain a component that would prevent the transfer belt mechanism 64 from detaching from the device body 10a when the image holding mechanism 34 is detached from the device body 10a.

[0135] In this structure, such as Figure 6 , Figure 7 As shown, with the image holding mechanism 34 detached from the device body 10a, the transfer belt mechanism 64 mounted on the device body 10a is moved inward in the longitudinal direction of the device. Thus, the transfer belt mechanism 64 detaches from the device body 10a.

[0136] When the transfer belt mechanism 64, detached from the device body 10a, is installed on the device body 10a, the process is reversed from the above. Thus, the transfer belt mechanism 64 is installed and removed relative to the device body 10a along the device depth direction. In other words, the transfer belt mechanism 64 is installed and removed relative to the device body 10a by moving it in a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis of the transfer belt 66. The device depth direction is an example of the second direction.

[0137] (The function of the main structural components)

[0138] Next, the process of detaching the image holding mechanism 34 and the transfer belt mechanism 64 installed in the device body 10a from the device body 10a, and the process of installing the image holding mechanism 34 and the transfer belt mechanism 64 detached from the device body 10a back into the device body 10a will be described.

[0139] [Disengagement process]

[0140] When the image forming apparatus 10 is in operation, such as Figure 2 , Figure 3 As shown, the maintenance doors 124 and 126 are positioned in the closed position. Furthermore, with the image retainer mechanism 34 installed on the device body 10a, the transfer belt mechanism 64 installed on the device body 10a cannot be disengaged.

[0141] Therefore, firstly, the operator, such as Figure 3 , Figure 4 The opening / closing door 124, as shown, is moved from the closed position to the open position. Then, the operator moves the image holding mechanism 34 towards the first side in the width direction of the device, thereby... Figure 5 The image holding mechanism 34 is shown to detach from the main body 10a of the device.

[0142] Specifically, the operator holds the side panel 40 of the frame 38, and as... Figure 9 (A) Figure 9 As shown in (B), the image holding mechanism 34 is moved toward the first side in the width direction of the device, thereby pulling the pin 138 out of the through hole 40a. Furthermore, in this state, the front end of the engaging portion 36a of the image holding body 36 is inserted into the recess 130a of the engaging portion 130.

[0143] Then, the operator moves the side panel 40 being held downwards, as... Figure 10 As shown in (A), the side plate 40 is placed on the support surface 146. Consequently, the image holder mechanism 34 is inclined relative to the width direction of the device, and the image holder 36 separates from the transfer printing belt 66. Furthermore, the protrusion 42 formed on the frame 38 is placed on the guide rail 142. Thus, in order to detach the image holder mechanism 34 from the device body 10a, the image holder mechanism 34 is separated from the transfer printing belt mechanism 64 and positioned in the separated position.

[0144] Furthermore, the operator, such as Figure 10 As shown in (B), the image holding mechanism 34 is moved in an inclined state so that the image holding mechanism 34 disengages from the device body 10a along the support surface 146 (see reference). Figure 5 ).

[0145] Next, the operator, in order to detach the transfer belt mechanism 64 from the main body 10a of the device, such as... Figure 6 The opening / closing door 126, which is in a closed position, is moved to an open position. Then, the operator moves the transfer belt mechanism 64 inwards along the depth of the device, thereby... Figure 7 The transfer belt mechanism 64 is shown to detach from the main body 10a of the device.

[0146] [Installation Process]

[0147] When the image holding mechanism 34 and the transfer belt mechanism 64, which are detached from the device body 10a, are installed on the device body 10a, the reverse process is performed.

[0148] Specifically, first, the operator moves the transfer belt mechanism 64 towards the front side in the depth direction of the device, thereby mounting the transfer belt mechanism 64 onto the device body 10a. Then, the operator moves the image holding mechanism 34 towards the second side in the width direction of the device, thereby mounting the image holding mechanism 34 onto the device body 10a.

[0149] (Summarize)

[0150] As explained above, in the image forming apparatus 10, the direction in which the image holding mechanism 34, which includes a plurality of image holders 36, is attached and detached relative to the apparatus body 10a is different from the direction in which the transfer belt mechanism 64 is attached and detached relative to the apparatus body 10a. For example, if the direction in which the transfer belt mechanism is attached and detached relative to the apparatus body is the same as the direction in which the image holding mechanism is attached and detached relative to the apparatus body, a large opening is required in the frame of the image forming apparatus. As described above, forming a large opening in the frame reduces the rigidity of the frame. Therefore, in order to maintain the rigidity of the frame, it is necessary to increase the size of the frame or increase the thickness of the frame plates, etc.

[0151] However, as described above, in the image forming apparatus 10, the direction of the image holding mechanism 34 relative to the apparatus body 10a is different from the direction of the transfer belt mechanism 64 relative to the apparatus body 10a. Therefore, compared to the case where the direction of the transfer belt mechanism relative to the apparatus body and the direction of the image holding mechanism relative to the apparatus body are the same, it is not necessary to form a large opening in the frame, and thus, the situation where the frame 136 becomes larger or the plate thickness of the frame 136 becomes thicker is suppressed.

[0152] Furthermore, in the image forming apparatus 10, when viewed from above, the loading and unloading direction of the image holder mechanism 34 intersects with the loading and unloading direction of the transfer belt mechanism 64, and when viewed from the side (either in the width or depth direction of the apparatus), the loading and unloading direction of the image holder mechanism 34 follows the loading and unloading direction of the transfer belt mechanism 64. Therefore, compared to the case where the loading and unloading directions of the image holder mechanism 34 and the transfer belt mechanism 64 intersect when viewed from the side, the vertical movement area of ​​the transfer belt mechanism 64 and the image holder mechanism 34 is narrowed, thereby suppressing the increase in the height of the apparatus body 10a.

[0153] Furthermore, in the image forming apparatus 10, the image holder mechanism 34 is mounted and dismounted relative to the apparatus body 10a along the rotation axis direction of the image holder 36, and the transfer belt mechanism 64 is mounted and dismounted relative to the apparatus body 10a in a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis direction of the transfer belt 66. Therefore, compared to the case where the image holder mechanism is mounted and dismounted in a direction inclined relative to the rotation axis direction of the image holder, and the transfer belt mechanism is mounted and dismounted in a direction inclined relative to the rotation axis direction of the transfer belt, the situation where the distance that each mechanism needs to move for mounting and dismounting is longer is suppressed.

[0154] Furthermore, in the image forming apparatus 10, with the image holder mechanism 34 installed in the apparatus body 10a, the protrusion 74a restricts the transfer belt mechanism 64 installed in the apparatus body 10a from detaching from the apparatus body 10a. Therefore, compared to the case where the transfer belt mechanism installed in the apparatus body can detach from the apparatus body when the image holder mechanism is installed in the apparatus body, the friction between the transfer belt 66 and the image holder 36 caused by the installation and removal of the transfer belt mechanism 64 is suppressed.

[0155] Furthermore, in the image forming apparatus 10, when the transfer belt mechanism 64 mounted on the apparatus body 10a is to be detached from the apparatus body 10a, the protrusion 74a abuts against the frame 38 of the image holding mechanism 34, thereby restricting the detachment of the transfer belt mechanism 64 from the apparatus body 10a. Thus, compared to using a mechanism requiring mechanical action to restrict the detachment of the transfer belt mechanism from the apparatus body, a simpler structure can be used to restrict the detachment of the transfer belt mechanism 64 from the apparatus body 10a.

[0156] Furthermore, in the image forming apparatus 10, at least a portion of a suppressing member 80 for suppressing the serpentine movement of the circumferentially rotating transfer belt 66 is disposed at the protrusion 74a. Therefore, the situation where the suppressing member 80 is disposed in a dedicated area is suppressed, thus preventing the apparatus body 10a from becoming larger.

[0157] Furthermore, in the image forming apparatus 10, the protrusion amount of the protrusion 74a is determined in such a way that even when the image holding mechanism 34 is positioned in a separated position to detach it from the apparatus body 10a (see reference 100000). Figure 10 In (A) mode, the protrusion 74a also abuts against the frame 38 of the image holding mechanism 34. Even when the image holding mechanism 34 is separated from the transfer belt mechanism 64 in order to detach the image holding mechanism 34 from the device body 10a, the detachment of the transfer belt mechanism 64 from the device body 10a is restricted. Therefore, compared to the case where the installation and removal order of the image holding mechanism 34 and the transfer belt mechanism 64 relative to the image forming apparatus 10 is determined and the loading and unloading order has a degree of freedom, the device can be miniaturized.

[0158] Furthermore, although the present invention has been described in detail with respect to specific embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments, and various other embodiments can be adopted within the scope of the present invention, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, in the described embodiment, when the transfer belt mechanism 64 mounted on the device body 10a is to be disengaged from the device body 10a, the protrusion 74a abuts against the frame 38 of the image holder mechanism 34, thereby restricting the disengagement of the transfer belt mechanism 64. However, a mechanism that requires mechanical actions such as gripping or releasing the transfer belt mechanism can also be used to restrict the disengagement of the transfer belt mechanism. However, in this case, the effect of restricting the disengagement of the transfer belt mechanism 64 by abutting the protrusion 74a against the frame 38 of the image holder mechanism 34 is not utilized.

[0159] Furthermore, in the described embodiment, by increasing the protrusion of the protrusion 74a, the detachment of the transfer belt mechanism 64 from the device body 10a is limited even when the image holder mechanism 34 is in the separated position. However, a position sensor could also be provided, for example, to detect the position of the image holder mechanism 34. This position sensor detects when the image holder mechanism 34 is in the separated position, and based on the detection result, a mechanism requiring mechanical actions such as gripping or releasing the transfer belt mechanism is used to limit the detachment of the transfer belt mechanism. However, in this case, the effect of limiting the detachment of the transfer belt mechanism 64 from the device body 10a even when the image holder mechanism 34 is in the separated position by increasing the protrusion of the protrusion 74a is not utilized.

[0160] Furthermore, in the described embodiment, when viewed from the side, the loading and unloading direction of the image holding mechanism 34 is along the loading and unloading direction of the transfer belt mechanism 64. However, when viewed from the side, the loading and unloading direction of the image holding mechanism 34 and the loading and unloading direction of the transfer belt mechanism 64 may intersect. In this case, the function of the embodiment in which the loading and unloading direction of the image holding mechanism 34 is along the loading and unloading direction of the transfer belt mechanism 64 when viewed from the side is not utilized.

[0161] Furthermore, in the described embodiment, the image holder mechanism 34 is mounted and dismounted relative to the device body 10a along the rotation axis direction of the image holder 36, and the transfer belt mechanism 64 is mounted and dismounted relative to the device body 10a in a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis direction of the transfer belt 66. However, the image holder mechanism may also be mounted and dismounted in a direction inclined relative to the rotation axis direction of the image holder, and the transfer belt mechanism may also be mounted and dismounted in a direction inclined relative to the rotation axis direction of the transfer belt. However, in this case, the function of the embodiment in which the image holder mechanism 34 is mounted and dismounted relative to the device body 10a along the rotation axis direction of the image holder 36, and the transfer belt mechanism 64 is mounted and dismounted relative to the device body 10a in a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis direction of the transfer belt 66, is not utilized.

[0162] In addition, in the above embodiment, at least a portion of the anti-snagging member 80 for suppressing the circumferential rotation of the transfer belt 66 is provided in the protrusion 74a, but other functional members such as a clutch may also be provided in the protrusion 74a.

[0163] In addition, in the above embodiment, at least a portion of the anti-snagging member 80 for suppressing the circumferential rotation of the transfer belt 66 is disposed on the protrusion 74a, but the anti-snagging member may not be disposed. However, in this case, the function achieved by disposing of the anti-snagging member is not utilized.

[0164] In addition, although not specifically described, a removable waste toner box or the like may be provided between the opening / closing door 124 and the image holding mechanism 34 in the above embodiment.

[0165] Furthermore, in the described embodiment, the image holder mechanism 34 is mounted and dismounted relative to the device body 10a along the width direction of the device, and the transfer belt mechanism 64 is mounted and dismounted relative to the device body 10a along the depth direction of the device. However, the image holder mechanism 34 can also be mounted and dismounted relative to the device body 10a along the depth direction of the device, and the transfer belt mechanism 64 can also be mounted and dismounted relative to the device body 10a along the width direction of the device. This is as long as the mounting and dismounting directions of the image holder mechanism 34 and the transfer belt mechanism 64 are different.

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus, comprising: Image holding mechanism supports multiple image holders and is mounted and dismounted relative to the main body of the device along a first direction, wherein the multiple image holders form an image on the surface while rotating; A transfer belt mechanism includes a transfer belt and is mounted and dismounted relative to the device body in a second direction different from the first direction, wherein the transfer belt transfers images of a plurality of image holders while rotating; as well as The limiting component, when the image holder mechanism is installed on the device body, prevents the transfer belt mechanism installed on the device body from disengaging from the device body in the arrangement direction of the plurality of image holders.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, When viewed from above, the first direction intersects the second direction, and when viewed from the side, the first direction is along the second direction.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, The image holding mechanism is loaded and unloaded relative to the device body along the rotation axis direction of the plurality of image holding bodies, and the transfer belt mechanism is loaded and unloaded relative to the device body in a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis direction of the transfer belt.

4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, comprising a support member, wherein the support member supports the image holder mechanism at the separated position so that the image holder mechanism can be detached from the apparatus body. Even when the image holding mechanism is supported in the separated position, the limiting member prevents the transfer belt mechanism mounted on the device body from detaching from the device body.

5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The support member has a guide surface and a support surface. The guide surface supports the image retention mechanism and guides the loading and unloading of the image retention mechanism. The support surface supports the lower end of the image retention mechanism. The guide surface and the support surface are configured such that their distance increases as they move toward the disassembly direction.

6. An image forming apparatus, comprising: Image holding mechanism supports multiple image holders and is mounted and dismounted relative to the main body of the device along a first direction, wherein the multiple image holders form an image on the surface while rotating; A transfer belt mechanism includes a transfer belt and is mounted and dismounted relative to the device body in a second direction different from the first direction, wherein the transfer belt transfers images of a plurality of image holders while rotating; as well as The limiting component, when the image holder mechanism is mounted on the device body, prevents the transfer belt mechanism mounted on the device body from detaching from the device body. The limiting component is a protrusion provided on the transfer belt mechanism, and when the transfer belt mechanism mounted on the device body is to be detached from the device body, the protrusion abuts against the image holding body mechanism.

7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, At least a portion of the protrusion is provided with a suppressing member that suppresses the serpentine movement of the circumferentially rotating transfer belt.

8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6 or 7, further comprising a support member that supports the image holder mechanism in a separated position to allow the image holder mechanism to detach from the apparatus body. Even when the image holding mechanism is supported in the separated position, the amount of protrusion of the protrusion is determined to be such that the protrusion abuts against the image holding mechanism.

Images