Toner cartridge and toner supply mechanism

Abstract

The purpose of the present invention is to develop a conventional toner cartridge structure. The toner cartridge includes a container and an opening / closing member. The container includes a accommodating portion, a discharge opening, and a cartridge side guide. The opening / closing member includes a closing portion and an engaging portion, and is movable relative to the container between a closed position and an open position. When the toner cartridge is disassembled from a receiving device, the engaging portion receives a force for moving the opening / closing member from the open position toward the closed position by engaging with the receiving device side guide of the receiving device.

Description

[0001] This divisional application is a divisional application based on the Chinese patent application with application number 201780059131.9, application date September 27, 2017, and invention name “Colorant cartridge and toner supply mechanism”, which is the Chinese national phase of the international application with international application number PCT / JP2017 / 036050. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a toner cartridge and a toner supply mechanism for forming an electrophotographic image. Background Art

[0003] In an electronic photographic imaging device, a structure is known in which components such as a photosensitive drum and a developing roller as rotatable members for image formation are integrated into a box that can be mounted on and removed from a main component of the imaging device (hereinafter, the device main component).

[0004] In the structure in which a cartridge is detachably mounted in an image forming apparatus, there is also known a structure in which a toner cartridge containing toner (developer) to be consumed upon image formation can be replaced separately from a photosensitive drum and a developing roller.

[0005] With this structure, the toner (developer) contained in the toner cartridge is supplied to a developing device including a developing roller, etc. through the discharge port. In addition, in order to prevent the toner from leaking to the outside from the discharge port, an opening and closing member such as a shutter for opening and closing the discharge port is provided.

[0006] For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H07-199623 discloses a structure in which, when a cylindrical toner cartridge (developer supply container) is mounted in the image forming apparatus main assembly, a shutter is opened by rotating the toner cartridge. Summary of the invention

[0007] [Problems to be Solved by the Invention]

[0008] The object of the present invention is to develop the above-mentioned prior art.

[0009] [Methods of solving the problem]

[0010] According to a representative structure of the present application, a colorant box is capable of being detachably mounted to a receiving device, the receiving device including a colorant receiving opening and a receiving device side guide, the colorant box including a container and an opening / closing member, the container including: a accommodating portion for accommodating colorant; a discharge opening for discharging colorant from the accommodating portion toward the receiving opening; and a box side guide configured to be guided by the receiving device side guide, the opening / closing member including: a closing portion for closing the discharge opening; an engaging portion capable of engaging with the receiving device side guide, wherein the opening / closing member is capable of moving relative to the container between a closed position for causing the closing portion to close the discharge opening and an open position for causing the closing portion to open the discharge opening, wherein when the colorant box is removed from the receiving device, the engaging portion receives a force for moving the opening / closing member from the open position to the closed position by engaging with the receiving device side guide.

[0011] [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] The above-mentioned conventional techniques can be developed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 Parts (a) and (b) are side views of a toner cartridge according to an embodiment.

[0014] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the structure of an imaging apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0015] Figure 3 is a schematic side sectional view showing a state in which the toner cartridge is mounted on the developing unit.

[0016] Figure 4 Parts (a) and (b) are schematic perspective views of a developing unit according to an embodiment.

[0017] Figure 5 Parts (a), (b), (c), (d), and (e) are schematic diagrams of a toner cartridge according to an embodiment.

[0018] Figure 6 Parts (a) and (b) are schematic diagrams of the developing unit and the toner cartridge before installation (insertion).

[0019] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the developing unit and the toner cartridge during installation (insertion).

[0020] Figure 8 Parts (a), (b), and (c) are schematic side views showing modified examples of the structure of the insertion guided portion (portion guided at the time of insertion).

[0021] Fig. 9 Parts (a) and (b) are schematic side views showing the relationship of forces acting on the toner cartridge.

[0022] Fig.10 Parts (a) and (b) are schematic diagrams showing a state in which the abutting portion and the abutted portion abut against each other.

[0023] Fig.11 Parts (a) and (b) of FIG. 1 are schematic diagrams when the container frame is rotated so that the toner cartridge is positioned in an appropriate position.

[0024] Fig.12 Parts (a) and (b) are schematic diagrams when each shutter is moved to the open position and each toner storage portion is connected.

[0025] Fig.13 Parts (a) and (b) are perspective views showing modified examples of the structure of the operating portion of the toner cartridge.

[0026] Fig.14 is a perspective view of a developing unit and a toner cartridge, illustrating a modified example of the structure of an extending member.

[0027] Fig.15 Parts (a) and (b) are side views in a case where the drive transmission portion engaged with the second drive transmission portion is provided in the toner cartridge.

[0028] Fig.16 Parts (a), (b), and (c) are side sectional views of the developing unit and the toner cartridge, illustrating modified examples of the structure of the restricting portion.

[0029] Fig.17 Parts (a) and (b) are perspective views of the developing unit.

[0030] Fig.18 Parts (a), (b), and (c) are cross-sectional views of the developing unit and the toner cartridge.

[0031] Fig.19 It is a diagram showing the arrangement relationship of the second baffle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Hereinafter, an image forming apparatus, a toner image forming part, and a toner cartridge for forming an electrophotographic image will be described using the accompanying drawings. Here, the image forming apparatus is an apparatus for forming an image on a recording material using, for example, an electrophotographic image forming process. For example, it includes an electrophotographic copier, an electrophotographic printer (e.g., an LED printer, a laser beam printer, etc.), an electrophotographic fax machine, etc.

[0033] Here, in the following example, a monochrome image forming apparatus provided with one toner image forming portion is shown. However, the number of toner image forming portions provided in the image forming apparatus is not limited to this example. For example, the image forming apparatus may have a plurality of toner image forming portions to form a color image.

[0034] Similarly, with respect to each configuration disclosed in the embodiments, unless otherwise described, materials, arrangements, dimensions, other numerical values, etc. are not limited to the described examples. In addition, unless otherwise specified, "above" means upward in the direction of gravity when the imaging device is installed.

[0035] <Example 1>

[0036] In this embodiment, a structure that contributes to improved usability will be described in detail. More specifically, this embodiment relates to improving the operational feeling when a user mounts a toner cartridge to a developing unit.

[0037] First, the structure of the entire image forming apparatus will be described, and then the developing unit and the toner cartridge will be described in detail. Here, the operation of mounting the toner cartridge to the developing unit is referred to as mounting operation, and the operation of disassembling the toner cartridge from the developing unit is referred to as disassembling operation.

[0038] In addition, a position where projections, holes, etc. are engaged with each other is referred to as an engagement position, and a position where the engagement is released is referred to as a non-engagement position (disengagement position).

[0039] [Description of Electrophotographic Image Forming Apparatus]

[0040] Figure 2 1 is a side sectional structural diagram showing the structure of an imaging apparatus A according to the present embodiment. Figure 2 The image forming apparatus A shown receives image information from an external device such as a personal computer communicably connected to the image forming apparatus. And, based on the received image information, the image forming apparatus A forms an image (toner image) on a recording material P (e.g., a recording sheet, an OHP sheet, a cloth, etc.) using a developer (toner) by an electrophotographic image forming process.

[0041] The toner image forming part (toner image forming unit) B is detachably provided in the main assembly of the image forming apparatus A. The toner image forming part (toner image forming unit) B of the present embodiment includes a drum unit C, a developing unit (developing device) D, and a toner cartridge E. The toner cartridge E can be mounted to and removed from the developing unit D. That is, the developing unit D has a mounting part for mounting the toner cartridge E, and is a receiving device (receiving device) for receiving the toner cartridge E.

[0042] Here, the toner image forming portion (toner image forming unit) B may be regarded as a unit including a photosensitive drum and an element (process member) acting on the photosensitive drum.

[0043] The drum unit C and the developing unit D are integrated and can be detachably mounted to the main assembly of the image forming apparatus as a box. The box in which the drum unit C and the developing unit D are integrated is sometimes specifically called a process box. That is, the toner cartridge E is mounted to and removed from the developing unit D of the process box. In this case, the entire process box is considered to be a receiving device.

[0044] In addition, the process cartridge can be mounted to and removed from the apparatus main assembly in the case where the toner cartridge E is mounted on the developing unit D. That is, the drum unit C, the developing unit D, and the toner cartridge E can be mounted to and removed from the apparatus main assembly in an integrated state. Therefore, all the toner image forming parts (toner image forming units) B including the drum unit C, the developing unit D, and the toner cartridge E can be referred to as a process cartridge.

[0045] Here, the drum unit C, the developing unit D, and the toner cartridge E may be formed separately as respective cartridges. In this case, the drum unit C is referred to as a drum cartridge, and the developing unit D is referred to as a developing cartridge. In addition, in some cases, the photosensitive drum (or the drum unit including the photosensitive drum) is fixed to the main assembly of the apparatus, and only the developing unit (developing cartridge) D and the toner cartridge E are detachable.

[0046] In addition, the photosensitive drum or the developing unit may be fixed to the apparatus main assembly, and only the toner cartridge E can be detachably mounted to the apparatus main assembly. In this case, the image forming apparatus itself can be regarded as a receiving apparatus for the toner cartridge E.

[0047] In addition, the combination of the receiving apparatus and the toner cartridge E may be referred to as a toner supply mechanism (toner supply unit, toner supply device), etc. In the toner supply mechanism, toner is supplied (replenished) from the toner cartridge E to the developing unit D provided in the receiving apparatus.

[0048] Here, in this example, the photosensitive drum as the image bearing member has a structure in which a flange and the like are integrated with a cylinder having a photosensitive layer.

[0049] The installation and removal of each cartridge is performed by a user (operator). In addition, the main assembly of the apparatus (main assembly of the image forming apparatus) refers to the constituent parts excluding these cartridges (drum unit C, developing unit D, toner cartridge E) from the image forming apparatus A.

[0050] The drum unit C is a unit that integrally includes a photosensitive drum (image bearing member) 16, a charging roller 17, a cleaning blade 19, etc., and in the present embodiment, it is connected to the developing unit D to constitute a part of the process cartridge. In addition, the developing unit D is a unit that integrally includes a developing roller (developer carrying member) 24, etc., and in the present embodiment, it is a part of the process cartridge. The toner cartridge E is a cartridge that integrally includes a toner container (developer accommodating container, container) 47 for accommodating a toner t as a developer.

[0051] Photosensitive drum 16 edge Figure 2 The photosensitive drum 16 rotates in the direction of the arrow a shown in FIG. The surface of the rotating photosensitive drum 16 is uniformly charged by the charging roller 17 as a charging device. A laser beam L corresponding to image information is irradiated from the laser scanner (exposure device) 1 onto the photosensitive drum 16, thereby forming an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image information on the photosensitive drum 16. And, the toner t carried on the developing roller 24 develops the electrostatic latent image. Thus, a toner image is formed on the photosensitive drum 16.

[0052] Here, reference Figure 3 , the developing process in the toner image forming portion B will be described. The frame 35 of the developing unit D as the receiving device rotatably supports the developing roller 24. The developing roller 24 receives a driving force from a power source (e.g., a motor) (not shown) provided in the main assembly of the device, and is rotationally driven in the forward direction (the direction of the arrow b in the figure) relative to the photosensitive drum 16.

[0053] The thickness t of the toner t in the developing chamber 31 is regulated by the developing blade 25 and carried on the circumferential surface of the developing roller 24. During the regulation of the layer thickness, the toner is charged by friction charging. And, the charged toner develops the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 16.

[0054] In the developing unit D, the developing chamber 31 communicates with the first toner containing portion (developer containing portion) 28 through the first opening portion 29. The first toner feeding device 27 rotationally driven by a driving source (not shown) supplies the toner t from the first toner containing portion 28 to the developing chamber 31.

[0055] In addition, the communication portion 58 is formed by the second opening portion (accommodating body opening, receiving port, receiving opening) 30 and the third opening portion (container opening, discharge port, discharge opening) 49. Through the communication portion 58, the first toner accommodating portion (accommodating member accommodating chamber) 28 and the second toner accommodating portion (container accommodating chamber) 47t of the toner cartridge E are fluidly communicated.

[0056] The second toner accommodating portion 47 t is a space provided inside the container 47 for accommodating toner.

[0057] The third opening portion 49 is formed in the container frame 47a, and is a discharge opening for discharging the toner from the second toner containing portion 47t to the outside of the container 47 (i.e., into the developing unit D). The toner discharged from the third opening portion 49 is received in the second opening (receiving port) 30 of the developing unit D.

[0058] The toner t is supplied from the second toner accommodating portion 47 t into the first toner accommodating portion 28 by the second toner feeding member 46 which is rotated by the driving force input from the apparatus main assembly through the developing unit D.

[0059] Return to reference Figure 2 , which will be further described. The recording materials P contained in the feed cassette 2 are separated and fed one by one by cooperation of the pickup roller 3 and the pressure contact member 5 pressed against the pickup roller 3. And, in synchronization with the toner image being formed on the photosensitive drum, the recording material P is fed to the transfer roller 6 as a transfer device along the feed guide 4.

[0060] Next, the recording material P passes through the transfer nip portion 11 formed by the photosensitive drum 16 and the transfer roller 6, with a predetermined voltage applied to the transfer roller. At this time, the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 16 is transferred to the recording material P. The recording material P to which the toner image has been transferred is fed to the fixing device 8 by the feeding guide 7.

[0061] The fixing device 8 includes a driving roller 8a and a fixing roller 8c in which a heater 8b is incorporated. The recording material P receives heat and pressure when passing through a nip portion 8d formed between the fixing roller 8c and the driving roller 8a. Thus, the toner image transferred onto the recording material P is fixed thereon. Thereafter, the recording material P on which the toner image has been fixed is fed by a discharge roller pair 9 and discharged to a discharge tray 10.

[0062] The cleaning blade 19 elastically contacts the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 16. Thus, the toner t (untransferred residual toner) remaining on the photosensitive drum 16 and not transferred to the recording material P is scraped off by the cleaning blade 19. The scraped toner t is stored in a removed toner accommodating portion (waste toner accommodating portion) 18a of a frame 18 to which the cleaning blade 19 is fixed.

[0063] As described above, in the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment, an image is formed on a recording material (recording medium) by using a developer (toner) by an electrophotographic image forming method. As long as the image forming apparatus can form an image on a recording material, its form is not limited to an electrophotographic copier, an electrophotographic printer (laser beam printer, LED printer, etc.), an electrophotographic facsimile machine, an electrophotographic word processor, etc.

[0064] As described above, the toner image forming portion B includes an electrophotographic photosensitive member (photosensitive member) as an image bearing member and process devices acting on the photosensitive member. In this embodiment, the toner image forming portion is detachably mountable to the main assembly of the image forming apparatus as one or more cartridges.

[0065] The processing device includes a charging device (charging member, charging means), a developing device (developing device, developing unit), a cleaning device (cleaning device, cleaning member), and the like.

[0066] The developing device develops the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive member. In this embodiment, the developing device (developing unit) can be attached to or detached from the image forming apparatus as a part of the process cartridge.

[0067] In addition, a toner cartridge (developer cartridge, toner bottle, developer bottle, toner container, developer container) is a cartridge containing a developer (toner) for developing an electrostatic latent image formed on a photosensitive member.

[0068] [Structure of each box (each unit)]

[0069] Next, a detailed structure of each cartridge (each unit) detachably provided in the image forming apparatus will be described.

[0070] (Details of the vicinity of the toner cartridge receiving portion of the developing unit)

[0071] refer to Figure 4 , a detailed structure in the vicinity of a receiving portion of a toner cartridge E of a developing unit D according to the present embodiment will be described. Figure 4 It is a perspective view of the vicinity of a receiving portion (mounting portion) of a toner cartridge E of a developing unit D. Figure 4 Part (a) shows a state in which the second opening portion 30 is closed (the first shutter 37 is in the closed position). Figure 4 Part (b) of FIG. 1 shows a state in which the second opening portion 30 is opened (the first shutter 37 is in the open position). In the present embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the developing unit D is a direction parallel to the rotation axis direction of the developing roller 24 of the developing unit D. Here, in a state in which the toner cartridge E is mounted to the developing unit, the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E is substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the developing unit D.

[0072] In the developing unit D, the toner cartridge E can be mounted to (removably from) a frame (developing frame) 35 at a receiving portion. Near the receiving portion, the developing unit D is provided with a second opening (accommodating body opening, receiving port) 30 and a first baffle (accommodating body baffle, receiving device side baffle, receiving device side opening / closing member) 37. In the present embodiment, the second opening portion 30 is provided in the central portion in the longitudinal direction of the developing unit D. However, the position of the second opening portion 30 is not limited to this position as long as it faces the third opening (container opening) 49 to be described below.

[0073] like Figure 4 As shown in part (a) of FIG. 1 , the second opening portion 30 is sealed by a first baffle 37 having a shape having a curvature along the outer peripheral surface of the colorant box E. As shown in FIG.

[0074] The first shutter 37 has a hole portion 37a that can engage with a protrusion (container side engaging portion, opening / closing member moving portion, container side protrusion) 45 provided on the toner cartridge E. Two protrusions 45 and two hole portions 37a are provided. The hole portion 37a is provided outside the sealing area where the first shutter 37 seals the second opening portion 30.

[0075] In addition, both end portions in the longitudinal direction of the first shutter 37 engage with first shutter guide portions 34 provided in the frame 35 of the developing unit D. Thus, the first shutter 37 is slidable (movable) along the first shutter guide portions 34 (in the directions of arrows W1 and W2).

[0076] Thus, the first shutter plate 37 can be in a closed position (receiving opening closed position, Figure 4 portion (a)) and an opening position for opening the second opening portion 30 (receiving opening position, Figure 4 Move between parts (b)).

[0077] In addition, if Figure 4 As shown in part (b) of the drawing, a first sealing member 32 for sealing a space between the first baffle 37 and the second opening portion 30 is mounted to the frame 35 of the developing unit D so as to surround the second opening portion 30 .

[0078] The developing unit D is provided with insertion guide portions (receiving device side guides) 35d, 36d at opposite ends of the frame 35 in the longitudinal direction, and the insertion guide portions are used to guide and simultaneously maintain the posture (installation posture) of the colorant box E when installing (inserting) the colorant box.

[0079] In addition, the developing unit D is provided with abutted portions (portions to be abutted) 35a, 36a against which the abutting portions 42a, 43a of the toner cartridge E abut when the toner cartridge E is inserted as will be described below.

[0080] In addition, the developing unit D is provided with rotation guide portions 35b, 36b at opposite ends of the frame 35 in the longitudinal direction, which are used to guide the rotation of the colorant box E when the first baffle 37 and the second baffle (colorant box side baffle) 53 are opened and closed.

[0081] The insertion guide portions 35d, 36d extend along the insertion direction f ( Figure 4 The parts (a)) are formed linearly and in parallel with each other. Here, the direction opposite to the direction of inserting the colorant cartridge E may be referred to as a removal direction. The removal direction is a direction in which the colorant cartridge E is removed from the developing unit D. The downstream side of the insertion direction may be considered as the upstream side of the removal direction, and the upstream side of the insertion direction may be considered as the downstream side of the removal direction.

[0082] The side on which a driving unit such as a gear (e.g., the first drive transmission portion 38) is provided is hereinafter referred to as a driving side with respect to the opposite end side in the longitudinal direction of the developing unit D. The non-driving side of the developing unit is opposite to the driving side in the longitudinal direction.

[0083] On the non-driving side of the developing unit D, the abutted portion (the portion to be abutted) 35a and the rotating guide portion 35b are arranged on the downstream side of the insertion guide portion 35d in the insertion direction f, and on the driving side, the abutted portion (the portion to be abutted) 36a and the rotating guide member 36b are arranged on the downstream side of the insertion guide portion 36d in the insertion direction f.

[0084] Furthermore, the developing unit D is provided at one end portion in the longitudinal direction of the frame 35 with a first drive transmitting portion 38 for transmitting drive to a second toner feeding unit 46 of the toner cartridge E, which will be described later.

[0085] The first drive transmission portion 38 is a gear, and is connected to a driving mechanism of the image forming apparatus main assembly inside the developing unit D. The first drive transmission portion 38 is a torque transmission unit (driving force transmission unit) for transmitting a rotational force for driving the second toner feeding member 46 from the outside of the toner cartridge E.

[0086] (Details of toner cartridge)

[0087] refer to Figure 5 , the detailed structure of the colorant box E according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0088] Figure 5Part (a) is a perspective view of the toner cartridge E when viewed from the second drive transmission portion (48) side (drive side). Figure 5 Part (b) is a perspective view of the toner cartridge E when viewed from the side (non-driving side) opposite to the second drive transmitting portion (48) side. Figure 5 Part (c) is a cross-sectional view of the toner cartridge E in which the third opening portion 49 is in a closed state when viewed from the side opposite to the second drive transmission portion (48). Figure 5 Part (d) is a cross-sectional view of the toner cartridge E in a state where the third opening portion 49 is opened when viewed from the side opposite to the second drive transmission portion (48) side. And, Figure 5 Part (e) is a perspective view of the toner cartridge E when the second shutter 53 is in the open position (a state in which the third opening portion 49 is open). Figure 5 In FIG. 1 , the toner t is not shown.

[0089] The colorant box E includes a container 47, a second shutter (developer container shutter) 53 movable relative to the container 47, a second colorant feeding member 46 arranged in the container 47, and a second drive transmission part (gear) 48 mounted to the second colorant feeding member 46, etc.

[0090] The container 47 has a substantially cylindrical shape. That is, a frame (container frame) 47a constituting a main assembly portion (main portion) of the container 47 has a substantially cylindrical shape. Here, the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E is the longitudinal direction (axial direction) of the cylindrical shape.

[0091] An insertion guided portion (guided portion, box side guide portion) 42 that protrudes outward in the longitudinal direction beyond the side wall 47a2 of the container frame 47a is provided at an end portion in the longitudinal direction of the container 47. Similarly, an insertion guided portion (guided portion, box side guide portion) 43 that protrudes outward in the longitudinal direction beyond the side wall 47a1 of the container frame 47a is provided at the other longitudinal end portion of the container 47.

[0092] In addition, the container 47 is provided with an operating portion 44 operated by a user. The operating portion 44 is a U-shaped (U-shaped) protrusion formed integrally with the frame 47a. Here, the shape of the operating portion 44 is not limited to the U-shape. In addition, it can be integrally molded with the container frame 47a, or can be made of a member separated from the frame 47a and mounted to the frame 47a. The operating portion 44 is a gripping portion (grip, grip) for the user to grip when inserting or removing the toner cartridge E.

[0093] like Figure 5As shown in part (c) of the container frame (cylindrical portion) 47a, the container frame (cylindrical portion) 47a is hollow and forms a second toner containing portion 47t in which toner is stored. A second toner feeding member 46 for feeding toner is rotatably disposed in the second toner containing portion 47t of the container frame 47a. A second drive transmission portion 48 for receiving power (rotational force, driving force) for rotationally driving the second toner feeding member 46 is disposed at one end portion in the longitudinal direction (rotational axis direction) of the second toner feeding member 46 ( Figure 5 The second drive transmission portion 48 is a gear (drive input gear) which receives a driving force (rotational force) from the outside of the toner cartridge E (ie, from the developing unit D as a receiving device).

[0094] Here, in the present embodiment, the driving force is directly transmitted from the second drive transmission portion 48 to the second toner feeding member 46. However, the driving force may be transmitted from the second drive transmission portion 48 to the second toner feeding member 46 via another drive transmission member (e.g., one or more gears). Fig.15 Describe this structure.

[0095] In addition, if Figure 5 As shown in the portion (e) of the toner cartridge E, a third opening portion 49 for discharging the toner t of the second toner accommodating portion 47t is provided in the outer peripheral surface of the container frame 47a. In the present embodiment, the third opening portion 49 is provided in the outer peripheral surface of the container frame 47a at the center in the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E. However, the position of the third opening portion 49 is not limited to a specific position as long as it is a position facing the second opening portion 30.

[0096] like Figure 5 As shown in part (c), a cross-sectional portion of the second baffle 53 (a cross section along a plane perpendicular to the central axis R of the container frame 47a) has a curved shape (a substantially circular arc shape) along the outer periphery of the container frame 47a.

[0097] The container frame 47a has a curved surface (generally cylindrical shape, generally circular arc shape) at least around the third opening portion 49. The second shutter 53 is rotatable (rotatable) around the container frame 47a along the curved surface portion (circular arc portion) around the third opening portion 49. Thus, the second shutter 53 can open and close the third opening portion 49.

[0098] The second shutter 53 has a shutter body portion 53m (body portion, closing portion) for closing the third opening portion 49. Here, the longitudinal direction of the shutter body portion 53m is substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E.

[0099] In addition, the second baffle plate 53 is provided with an extension portion 53x extending in the longitudinal direction. A restriction portion 53x1 is provided at an end portion in the longitudinal direction of the extension portion 53x, and the restriction portion protrudes outward in the longitudinal direction beyond the side wall 47a1 of the container frame 47a. Similarly, a restriction portion 53x2 is provided at the other longitudinal end portion of the extension portion 53x, and the restriction portion protrudes outward in the longitudinal direction beyond the side wall 47a2 ( Figure 5 parts (a) and (b)).

[0100] In addition, the state where the second baffle 53 is opened ( Figure 5 The portion (d) in the third opening portion 49 is closed ( Figure 5 At this time, the extending portion 53x and the limiting portions 53x1 and 53x2 are arranged away from the operating portion 44.

[0101] More specifically, when the second baffle 53 moves relative to the container frame 47a in the direction of arrow n from Figure 5 When the third opening portion 49 is relatively moved from the closed state to the state shown in part (c), the third opening portion 49 is opened from the closed state ( Figure 5 At this time, similarly to the second shutter 53, the extension portion 53x provided in the second shutter 53 also moves in the direction of arrow n relative to the container frame 47. That is, when the second shutter 53 changes from a state in which the third opening portion 49 is closed to a state in which the second shutter is opened, the extension portion 53x moves away from the operating portion 44.

[0102] In addition, when the second shutter 53 is changed from the state in which the third opening portion 49 is opened to the closed state, the extending portion 53 x approaches the operating portion 44 .

[0103] Here, in this example, although the extension portion 53x is formed integrally with the second baffle 53, it may be formed separately. In addition, at least a portion of the extension portion 53x may be made of a member (metal rod, etc.) having a higher strength than that of a portion other than the extension portion 53x.

[0104] And, two protrusions 45 are provided on the cylindrical outer periphery of the container frame 47a so as to be engageable with the hole portion 37a of the first shutter 37. The two protrusions 45 protrude substantially in the same direction. The two protrusions 45 protrude toward the downstream side in the insertion direction in which the toner cartridge E is inserted into the developing unit D. In addition, a line connecting the two protrusions 45 is substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E.

[0105] Furthermore, the end portion 53c on the free end side of the second baffle 53 is located on the downstream side along the direction (arrow u direction) in which the second baffle 53 moves relative to the container frame 47a when the third opening portion 49 is closed. The end portion 53c on the free end side of the second baffle 53 is an end portion of the second baffle 53 in the lateral direction (direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the second baffle 53).

[0106] like Figure 5 As shown in part (c), the toner cartridge E is viewed in the longitudinal direction. The second shutter 53 is in a state where the third opening portion 49 is closed ( Figure 5 The part (b) in the figure becomes open ( Figure 5 At this time, the two protrusions 45 are arranged on a side away from the end portion 53 c on the free end side of the second baffle plate 53 .

[0107] In the longitudinal direction of the container 47, the two protrusions 45 are arranged on the outer side of the third opening portion 49. In more detail, when the two protrusions 45 and the third opening portion 49 are projected onto an imaginary line parallel to the central axis R of the container frame 47a which is the rotation axis of the second baffle 53, the entire projection area of ​​the third opening portion 49 falls within the range sandwiched between the projection areas of the two protrusions.

[0108] The opposite end portions 53n of the second shutter 53 (the shutter main body portion 53m) in the longitudinal direction are engaged with the second shutter guide portion (opening and closing guide) 52 provided on the opposite side of the container frame 47a in the longitudinal direction of the third opening portion 49. And, the shutter main body portion 53m of the second shutter 53 is assembled along the second shutter guide portion 52 so as to be slidable in the circumferential direction on the outer peripheral surface of the container frame 47a. Thus, the second shutter 53 can be in the open position (container open position, Figure 5 portion (e)) and for closing the third opening portion 49 (container closed position, Figure 5 portion (b)) moves between a closed position.

[0109] Here, it is preferred that when the second baffle 53 is in the open position, Figure 5As shown in part (e) of the drawing, the third opening portion 49 is completely opened from the shutter body portion 53m (closed portion). However, if the toner t can be discharged from the third opening portion 49 in a desired amount when the second shutter 53 is in the open position, a portion of the third opening portion 49 may be covered by the shutter body portion 53m (closed portion). That is, as long as the shutter body portion 53m at least partially opens the third opening portion 49 when the second shutter 53 is in the open position, the toner t can be supplied from the toner cartridge E to the developing unit D.

[0110] In addition, preferably, when the second baffle 53 is in the closed position, Figure 5 As shown in part (b) of the drawing, the third opening portion 49 is completely covered by the shutter body portion 53m. However, the third opening portion 49 may be slightly opened as long as the third opening portion 49 is substantially closed by the shutter body portion 53m and toner leakage from the third opening portion 49 is sufficiently suppressed. That is, it is sufficient as long as the shutter body portion 53m substantially closes the third opening portion 49 when the second shutter 53 is in the closed position.

[0111] (Modification example of operation part)

[0112] Here, reference Fig.13 , a modified example of the structure of the operation section 44 will be described.

[0113] like Fig.13 As shown in part (a) of the drawing, the operating portion 44 may be shaped as a protrusion provided at each of the opposite longitudinal ends of the frame 47a. Fig.13 As shown in part (b), the operating portion 44 does not necessarily have to be arranged at the two longitudinal ends of the frame, but can be a protrusion arranged at one longitudinal end. Here, in the present embodiment, the operating portion 44 is formed integrally with the frame 47a, but it can be made of a member different from the frame 47a and mounted to the frame 47a.

[0114] It is preferable that the operation portion 44 is provided on the container frame 47a so as to outwardly extend beyond the extending portion 53x (the restricting portions 53x1, 53x2) in the longitudinal direction.

[0115] [Installing the toner cartridge into the developer unit]

[0116] Next, a description will be given of a process of mounting the toner cartridge E to the developing unit D. With the toner cartridge E having been inserted into the developing unit D, the toner cartridge E is rotated so that the second opening portion 30 and the third opening portion 49 are opened and closed.

[0117] (Inserting operation of toner cartridge into developing unit)

[0118] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 , the operation of inserting the toner cartridge E into the developing unit D will be described. Here, for better explanation, Figure 1 , Figure 6 Part (b) and Figure 7 It is a view through the insertion guide portions 35d and 36d.

[0119] Figure 1 Part (a) is a side view when the colorant box E is inserted into the developing unit D when viewed from the non-driving side. Figure 1 Part (b) is a side view of the colorant cartridge E and the developing unit D when viewed from the driving side, and shows the positional relationship between the operating portion 44 and the abutting portion 43a relative to the mounting direction of the colorant cartridge E.

[0120] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the state of the toner cartridge E and the developing unit D before the toner cartridge E is installed (inserted), and Figure 6 Part (a) is a perspective view thereof, and Figure 6 Part (b) is a side view thereof.

[0121] Figure 7 1 is a side view showing the state of the toner cartridge E and the developing unit D during the installation (insertion) process of the toner cartridge E. FIG.

[0122] like Figure 1 As shown in part (a) of the toner cartridge E, the toner cartridge E includes a rotationally guided portion (a portion to be guided for rotation) 42b. When the first baffle 37 and the second baffle 53 are opened and closed by rotating the toner cartridge E, the rotationally guided portion 42b guides the container frame 47a. The container 47 can be smoothly rotated by the rotationally guided portion 42b. The rotationally guided portion 42b is a rotation guide (toner cartridge side rotation guide) for guiding the rotation of the toner cartridge E. The rotationally guided portion 42b has a curved surface shape (roughly circular arc shape) (details will be described below).

[0123] In the present embodiment, on the non-driving side, the abutment portion 42a, the rotation guided portion 42b, the restricting portion 42c1, and the restricting portion 42c2 are formed integrally with the insertion guided portion 42. However, they may be provided as separate members as long as they satisfy the respective functions.

[0124] like Figure 1As shown in part (b) of the drawing, the insertion guided portion 43 is provided with an abutment portion 43a which abuts against the abutted portion 36a of the developing unit D when the toner cartridge E is inserted. This structure allows the insertion guided portion 43 to also serve as a rotation guided portion (toner cartridge side rotation guide portion) for guiding the container frame 47a when the abutment portion 43a opens and closes the first shutter 37 and the second shutter 53.

[0125] In this embodiment, on the driving side, the insertion guided portion 43 and the abutment portion 43a may be constituted by separate components. In addition, the rotation guided portion may be provided as a component separate from the abutment portion 43a. As described above, based on considerations of strength, etc., the portion (non-functional portion, non-contact portion) in which the toner cartridge E and the developing unit D are not adjacent to each other may be appropriately omitted.

[0126] Further, in the present embodiment, at the end portion in the longitudinal direction of the second toner feeding portion 46, the insertion guided portion 43 is provided at the end portion of the second drive transmitting portion 48. However, the insertion guided portion 43 may be provided on the container frame 47a.

[0127] Here, reference Figure 1 4. In the part (a) of FIG. 47, the arrangement of the operating portion 44 in the container frame 47a will be described. The figure shows the positional relationship between the operating portion 44 and the abutment portion 42a in the insertion direction f.

[0128] Here, the insertion direction f will be described. The direction along the plane of the limiting portion 42c is defined as the direction f. More specifically, in the direction along the surface of the limiting portion 42c, the direction in which the abutment portion 42a is located on the downstream side relative to the insertion guided portion 42 can be considered as the direction f. That is, the direction in which the toner cartridge E is inserted into the developing unit D is the direction f.

[0129] A plane parallel to the insertion direction f of the toner cartridge E regulated by the limiting portions 42c1 and 42c2 and passing through the abutting portions 42a and 43a (an imaginary plane passing through the rotation center S of the container frame 47a) is considered to be a plane m.

[0130] The operation portion 44 is provided at the third opening portion 49 ( Figure 5 The opening direction of the part (d) Figure 1 Here, the opening direction of the third opening portion 49 (the direction of arrow e) is the direction in which the toner cartridge E is rotated so as to set the toner cartridge E to the developing unit D (setting direction).

[0131] In addition, the arrangement of the restricting portion (engaging portion) 53x1 and the restricting portion (engaging portion) 53x2 provided on the longitudinal end portion of the extending portion 53x with respect to the container frame 47a will be described. Figure 1 As shown in part (a), the insertion guided portion 42, the limiting portion 53x1 and the limiting portion 53x2 are arranged along a predetermined direction (insertion direction f or removal direction). That is, the insertion guided portion 42, the limiting portion 53x1 and the limiting portion 53x2 are arranged in a straight line along the insertion direction f (or removal direction). In addition, the limiting portion 53x1 and the limiting portion 53x2 are arranged on the upstream side of the insertion guided portion 42 along the insertion direction f.

[0132] In addition, the insertion guided portion 42 is arranged as a single body extending in a predetermined direction (insertion direction f or removal direction). That is, the insertion guided portion 42 extends in the insertion direction f (or removal direction).

[0133] The arrangement of the insertion guided portion 42, the limiting portion 53x1, and the limiting portion 53x2 will be described in more detail below. When the toner cartridge E is observed along its longitudinal direction, an imaginary line (first imaginary line) extending perpendicular to the insertion direction f of the toner cartridge E is n. When the insertion guided portion 42 and the limiting portion 53x2 are projected on line n, respectively, the projection area 53y2 of the limiting portion 53x2 falls within the projection area 50 of the insertion guided portion 42. Here, it is not necessary that all of the projection area 53y2 of the limiting portion 53x2 falls within the projection area 50 of the insertion guided portion 42, but it is only necessary that at least a portion of the projection area 53y2 is located within the projection area 50.

[0134] Similarly, if Figure 1 As shown in part (b), when the insertion guided portion 43 and the limiting portion 53x1 are projected on the line n, respectively, the projection area 53y1 of the limiting portion 53x1 falls within the projection area 51 of the insertion guided portion 43. It is not necessary that all of the projection area 53y1 of the limiting portion 53x1 be included in the projection area 51 of the insertion guided portion 43, and it is sufficient as long as at least a portion of the projection area 53y1 is located in the projection area 51.

[0135] With this structure, in a state in which the toner cartridge E is mounted to the developing unit D, the restricting portion 53x2 and the restricting portion 53x1 can be engaged with the insertion guide portion 35d and the insertion guide portion 36d, respectively (the details will be described later).

[0136] Here, if the restricting portions 53x1, 53x2 are provided as described above, the extending portion 53x does not have to be arranged in a straight line in the longitudinal direction, and it may have a crank shape or the like ( Fig.14 ).

[0137] Next, the operation of inserting the toner cartridge into the developing unit will be described.

[0138] like Figure 6 As shown in part (a) of FIG. 1 , before the toner cartridge E is mounted to the developing unit D, the first shutter 37 for the second opening portion 30 (not shown) is in the closed position, and the second shutter 53 for the third opening portion 49 (not shown) is in the closed position. That is, the second opening portion 30 ( Figure 4 The third opening portion 49 of the toner cartridge E ( Figure 5 The portion (d) is closed by the first baffle 37 and the second baffle 53.

[0139] On the insertion guided portion 42 of the toner cartridge E, restricted portions (regulated surface, posture restricting portion, insertion direction restricting portion) 42c1 and 42c2 for regulating the insertion posture and removal posture (insertion direction, removal direction) of the toner cartridge E are provided.

[0140] The user grips the operation portion 44 and moves the toner cartridge E in the insertion direction f relative to the developing unit D. The user moves the toner cartridge E so that the insertion guided portion 42 of the toner cartridge E and the insertion guide portion 35d of the developing unit D engage with each other, and the insertion guided portion 43 and the insertion guide portion 36d engage with each other. While the insertion guided portions 42, 43 are guided by the insertion guide portions 35d, 36d of the developing unit D, the posture of the toner cartridge E when the toner cartridge E is mounted is stable.

[0141] Here, if Figure 6 As shown in part (b) of FIG. 1 , in the present embodiment, the insertion guided portions 42 , 43 and the insertion guide portions 35 d , 36 d are configured so that the insertion direction f is inclined relative to the gravity direction g.

[0142] In other words, the restricting portion 42c1 on the lower side of the insertion guided portion 42 in the gravity direction g and the surface 35d1 on the lower side of the insertion guide portion 35d in the gravity direction g are in contact with each other ( Figure 1 Similarly, the restricting portion 42c2 on the lower side of the insertion guided portion 42 in the gravity direction g and the surface 35d2 on the lower side of the insertion guide portion 35d in the gravity direction g are in contact with each other ( Figure 1 Insert the colorant box E at the same time as part (b)).

[0143] And, if Figure 7As shown, the restriction portion 42c1 on the lower side (gravity direction g) of the insertion guided portion 42 is placed on the surface 35d1 of the insertion guide portion 35d so that the position of the insertion guided portion 42 is determined relative to the rotation guide portion 35b. Thus, the posture of the toner cartridge E relative to the developing unit D is determined.

[0144] When the user further moves the toner cartridge E in the direction f while maintaining the toner cartridge posture, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 As shown in part (a) of FIG. 1 , the abutting portion 42a of the insertion guided portion 42 provided in the toner cartridge E abuts against the abutted portion 35a provided in the developing unit D. Similarly, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 As shown in part (b) of FIG. 1 , the abutting portion 43a provided on the toner cartridge E abuts against the abutted portion 36a provided in the developing unit D. Thus, the insertion of the toner cartridge E is completed.

[0145] In addition, during the process of mounting the toner cartridge E to the developing unit, at least a portion of the restricting portion 53x2 enters the insertion guide portion 35d. Similarly, at least a portion of the restricting portion 53x1 enters the insertion guide portion 36d.

[0146] (Modification example of inserting the guided part)

[0147] Here, reference Figure 8 Part (a), Figure 8 Part (b) and Figure 8 In the section (c), a modified example of the structure of the insertion guided portion 42 will be described. Here, for better explanation, the insertion guide portion 35d can be seen.

[0148] Figure 8 Parts (a) to (c) of FIG. 1 are side views showing various exemplary structures of the insertion guided portion 42, the abutting portion 42a, and the restricting portion 42c of the toner cartridge E, respectively.

[0149] In this embodiment, if Figure 7 As shown, the insertion guided portion 42 of the toner cartridge E is composed of a single protrusion having an oblong shape. Figure 8 Other shapes and structures shown in parts (a) to (c) may be used as long as they can perform the same function. However, the shape, number and arrangement of the protrusions are not limited to the structures shown in the drawings.

[0150] That is to say, Figure 8As shown in part (a) of the drawing, a structure in which an oblong protrusion and a cylindrical protrusion are combined can be adopted. With this structure, the surface 42d of the oblong protrusion contacts the surface 35d1 of the insertion guide portion 35d, and the surface 42c2 of the cylindrical protrusion contacts the surface 35d2 of the insertion guide portion 35d. Thus, the posture of the colorant cartridge E during insertion is restricted. In addition, the abutting portion 42a of the oblong protrusion abuts against the abutted portion 35a, thereby completing the insertion of the colorant cartridge E.

[0151] In addition, if Figure 8 Part (b) and Figure 8 As shown in part (c), the insertion guided portion may be a combination of a plurality of columnar protrusions. Needless to say, the shape of the protrusion does not have to be cylindrical, but may be a triangular prism. That is, if the insertion guided portion is arranged along the insertion direction f of the toner cartridge E and can regulate the insertion posture of the toner cartridge E, the shape may be any shape. Similarly, it is not important whether the number of the insertion guided portions is multiple or single.

[0152] exist Figure 8 In the structure of part (b), the columnar projections 42e and 42f aligned in the insertion direction f contact the surface 35d1 of the insertion guide portion 35d. In addition, the surface 42c2 of the columnar projection 42 contacts the surface 35d2 of the insertion guide portion 35d. Thus, the posture of the colorant cartridge E is regulated. Similarly, the columnar projection 42f provided on the downstream side of the insertion direction f is provided with the abutment portion 42a, and the abutment portion 42a abuts against the abutted portion 35a. Thus, the insertion of the colorant cartridge E into the developing unit D is completed.

[0153] In addition, Figure 8 In the structure of part (c), the columnar projections 42e and 42f aligned in the insertion direction f contact the surface 35d1 of the insertion guide portion 35d, respectively. In addition, the columnar projections 42e and 42f contact the surface 35d2 of the insertion guide portion 35d. Thus, the posture of the colorant cartridge E is regulated. In addition, the columnar projection 42f provided on the downstream side of the insertion direction f is provided with the abutment portion 42a, and it abuts against the abutted portion 35a, thereby completing the insertion of the colorant cartridge E into the developing unit D.

[0154] As described above, in the case where a plurality of protrusions are provided on the longitudinal end portion of the toner cartridge E, only the portion in contact with the developing unit D needs to be paid attention to.

[0155] Here, in Figure 8In all the structures of parts (a) to (c), the insertion guided portion 42 and the limiting portion 53x1 are projected onto a surface n perpendicular to the insertion direction f. At this time, the projection area 53y2 of the limiting portion 53x2 falls within the projection area 50 of the insertion guided portion 42.

[0156] (Positioning of Toner Cartridge Relative to Developer Unit)

[0157] refer to Fig.10 Part (a), Fig.10 Part (b), Fig.11 Part (a) and Fig.11 Part (b) of the present invention will describe the positioning of the colorant box E relative to the developing unit D.

[0158] Fig.10 Part (a) is a side view of the insertion guided portion 42 of the toner cartridge E and the frame 35 of the developing unit D in a state in which the abutting portion 42a and the abutted portion 35a abut against each other. Fig.10 Part (b) is a cross-sectional view of the toner cartridge E and the developing unit D in a state where the abutting portion 42a and the abutted portion 35a abut against each other.

[0159] Fig.11 Part (a) is a side view of the insertion guided portion 42 of the toner cartridge E and the frame 35 of the developing unit D in a state in which the toner cartridge E is positioned relative to the developing unit D. Fig.11 Part (b) is a cross-sectional view showing the engagement relationship between the positioned toner cartridge E and the developing unit D. More specifically, Fig.11 Part (b) is a cross-sectional view in which the toner box E and the developing unit D are cut at the position of the second baffle 53.

[0160] Fig.10 Part (a) shows the state after the toner cartridge E is inserted into the developing unit D. In order to open and close the first shutter 37 and the second shutter 53, the container 47 is rotated in the direction of the arrow e around the rotation axis S of the toner cartridge E. Then, as shown in FIG. Fig.11 As shown in part (a) of FIG. 4 , the abutting portion 42a and the rotation guided portion 42b are engaged with the rotation guide portion 35b. Thus, the toner cartridge E is positioned relative to the developing unit D. At this time, the rotation guided portion 42b is guided by the rotation guide portion 35b provided in the developing unit D. Thus, the container 47 can be smoothly rotated.

[0161] [Opening and closing operation of the shutter]

[0162] Hereinafter, the opening / closing operations of the first shutter 37 provided in the developing unit D and the second shutter 53 provided in the toner cartridge E will be described in detail.

[0163] In the present embodiment, in the process of mounting the toner cartridge E to the developing unit D, the first shutter 37 of the developing unit D and the second shutter 53 of the toner cartridge E respectively open the second opening portion 30 and the third opening portion 49 (move to the open position). In contrast, in the process of removing the toner cartridge E from the developing unit D, the first shutter 37 and the second shutter 53 respectively close the second opening portion 30 and the third opening portion 49 (move to the closed position).

[0164] The toner cartridge E is mounted to the developing unit D by a mounting operation including at least a rotating operation. More specifically, the toner cartridge E is linearly inserted into the developing unit D, and then, it is rotated to be mounted to the developing unit D. In conjunction with the rotating movement when the toner cartridge E is mounted, the first shutter 37 and the second shutter 53 are moved from the closed position to the open position.

[0165] Similarly, the toner cartridge E is detached from the developing unit D by at least a detaching operation including a rotating operation. More specifically, the toner cartridge E is rotated relative to the developing unit D, and then, is removed from the developing unit D substantially linearly.

[0166] With the rotating operation when the toner cartridge E is removed, the first shutter 37 and the second shutter 53 move from the open position to the closed position.

[0167] (Opening operation of the shutter)

[0168] refer to Figure 1 Part (a), Fig.10 Part (b), Fig.11 Part (a), Fig.11 Part (b), Fig.12 Part (a) and Fig.12 In part (b), the opening operation of the first shutter 37 of the developing unit D and the second shutter 53 of the toner box E will be described. Fig.12 Part (a) of FIG. 1 is a side view of the insertion guided portion 42 of the toner cartridge E and the frame 35 of the developing unit D, in which the second opening portion 30 and the third opening portion 49 are opened. Fig.12 Part (b) is a cross-sectional view of the toner cartridge E and the developing unit D, in which the second opening portion 30 and the third opening portion 49 are opened.

[0169] In the present embodiment, the relative positions of the second opening portion 30 and the third opening portion 49 may be different in a state where the toner cartridge E is positioned relative to the developing unit D (mounted state). In other words, the structure enables at least two positions (two states) to be obtained by rotating the toner cartridge E in a state where the toner cartridge E is mounted to the developing unit D.

[0170] At the first position of the toner cartridge E, the second opening portion 30 and the third opening portion 49 do not overlap each other and are in a non-communication position where the first toner accommodating portion 28 and the second toner accommodating portion 47t are in a non-communication state ( Fig.10 In this state, the first shutter plate 37 is in a closed position to close the second opening portion 30.

[0171] At the second position of the toner cartridge E, the second opening portion 30 and the third opening portion 49 overlap each other and are in a communicating position where the first toner accommodating portion 28 and the second toner accommodating portion 47t are in a communicating state ( Fig.12 In this state, the first shutter 37 is in the open position at which the second opening portion 30 is opened.

[0172] like Figure 1 As shown in part (a) of the drawing, when the toner cartridge E is inserted into a predetermined position of the developing unit D, the protrusion 45 of the container frame 47a and the hole portion 37a of the first shutter 37 engage with each other. That is, the insertion posture of the toner cartridge E is restricted so that the insertion guided portion 42 is guided by the insertion guide portion 35d to insert the protrusion 45 into the hole portion 37a.

[0173] In addition, when the toner cartridge E is inserted into the developing unit D, at least a portion of the restricting portion 53x2 provided at one end portion in the longitudinal direction of the extending portion 53x enters the insertion guide portion 35d. In addition, at least a portion of the restricting portion 53x1 provided at the other longitudinal end portion of the extending portion 53x enters the insertion guide portion 36d. That is, by inserting the toner cartridge E into the developing unit D, the restricting portion 53x2 and the restricting portion 53x1 are engaged with the insertion guide portion 35d and the insertion guide portion 36d, respectively.

[0174] from Figure 1 The container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E is rotated in the direction of arrow e by the user operating the operating portion 44. As a result, the engagement state between the insertion guided portion 42 and the frame 35 becomes Fig.11 The state shown in part (a) of Fig.12 The state where the second opening portion 30 and the third opening portion 49 shown in part (a) of FIG. 4 overlap each other (not shown). At this time, the rotation axis S of the toner cartridge E (container frame 47a) is substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E.

[0175] here, Figure 1Part (a) is a side view viewed in the longitudinal direction when the toner cartridge E is inserted into a predetermined position of the developing unit D. At this time, when the toner cartridge E continues to rotate about the rotation axis S in the direction of the arrow e, the limiting portion 53x2 is in a position in contact with the surface 35d2. Therefore, when the container frame 47a is as Fig.10 When the extension 53x starts to rotate in the direction of arrow e as shown in part (a), the limiting portion 53x2 provided at one end in the longitudinal direction of the extension portion 53x abuts against the surface 35d2 of the insertion guide portion 35d. As a result, the limiting portion 53x2 receives a reaction force F1 from the surface 35d2. Fig.11 As shown in part (a), even if the rotation of the container frame 47a is advanced in the direction of arrow e, the limiting portion 53x2 continues to receive the force F1 from the surface 35d2. Therefore, the extending portion 53x does not rotate in the direction of arrow e together with the container frame 47a.

[0176] In other words, the toner cartridge E is inserted into a predetermined position of the developing unit D. At this time, if the restricting portion 53x2 is at a position where it contacts the surface 35d2 when the toner cartridge E continues to rotate about the rotation axis S in the direction of the arrow e, the extending portion 53x does not rotate in the direction of the arrow e together with the container frame 47a.

[0177] in addition, Figure 1 Part (b) is a side sectional view when the toner cartridge E is inserted into the predetermined position of the developing unit D, viewed from the side opposite to the driving side. At this time, when the toner cartridge E continues to rotate about the rotation axis S in the direction of the arrow e, the limiting portion 53x1 is in a position where it contacts the surface 36d2. Therefore, when the container frame 47a is as shown Fig.10 When the extension 53x starts to rotate in the direction of arrow e as shown in part (b), the limiting portion 53x1 of the extension 53x abuts against the surface 36d2 of the insertion guide portion 36d. As a result, the limiting portion 53x1 receives a reaction force F2 from the surface 36d2. Fig.11 As shown in part (b), even if the rotation of the container frame 47a is advanced in the direction of arrow e, the limiting portion 53x1 continues to receive the force F2 from the surface 36d2. Therefore, the extending portion 53x does not rotate in the direction of arrow e together with the container frame 47a.

[0178] With the above-described structure, the insertion guide portions 35d, 36d restrict the extension portion 53x so as not to rotate together with the container frame 47a in the direction of arrow e. This restricts the second shutter 53 from rotating together with the container frame 47a in the direction of arrow e. From this state, the container frame 47a further rotates in the mounting direction of the toner cartridge E (the direction of arrow e) relative to the developing unit D. Then, the container frame 47a moves in the direction (opening direction) of opening the third opening portion 49 for supplying toner to the developing unit.

[0179] In other words, the second shutter moves relative to the container frame 47a in a direction to open the third opening portion 49. The force F1 received by the restricting portion 53x2 and the force F2 received by the restricting portion 53x2 are forces for moving the second shutter 53 from the closed position to the open position.

[0180] In addition, if Fig.11 As shown in part (b), when the container frame 47a rotates in the direction of arrow e, the surface 45a of the protrusion 45 and the surface 37a1 of the hole portion 37a contact each other, and then a force F5 is applied from the surface 45a to the surface 37a1. As a result, the first baffle 37 is pushed in the rotation direction of the container frame 47a (the direction of arrow e). As a result, the first baffle 37 moves in conjunction with the rotation of the container frame 47a, so that the second opening portion 30 is opened. The protrusion 45 provided on the container frame 47a is a release force applying portion (open position moving portion, opening / closing member moving portion), which is used to apply a force to the first baffle 37 to move the first baffle 37 to the open position.

[0181] Afterwards, if Fig.12 Part (a) and Fig.12 As shown in part (b) of FIG. 1 , the first toner accommodating portion 28 and the second toner accommodating portion 47 communicate with each other through the third opening portion 49 and the second opening portion 30. Thus, the opening operation of the second opening portion 30 and the third opening portion 49 is completed.

[0182] At this time, the abutment portion 42a and the rotation guided portion 42b engage with the rotation guide portion 35b. Thus, with the second opening portion 30 and the third opening portion 49 open, the relative movement of the toner cartridge E relative to the developing unit D in the direction of arrow e is restricted.

[0183] In this state, the second drive transmission portion 48 of the toner cartridge E is connected to the drive transmission portion 38 of the developing unit D ( Figure 4 Thus, the driving force for rotating the second toner feeding member 46 is in a state where it can be transmitted from the developing unit D.

[0184] According to the above, the toner t can be conveyed (supplied) from the second toner accommodating portion 47t of the toner cartridge E to the first toner accommodating portion 28 of the developing unit D.

[0185] Here, in the present embodiment, the drive transmission portion 38 for transmitting the drive to the second drive transmission portion 48 of the toner cartridge E is provided on the developing unit D side. Fig.15 As shown, the drive transmission portion 38 engaged with the second drive transmission portion 48 may be provided on the toner cartridge E side. Here, Fig.15 1 is a side view of the toner cartridge E viewed from the driving side in a state where the drive transmission portion 38 is provided in engagement with the second drive transmission portion 48 . Fig.15 Part (a) shows a state in which the third opening portion 49 (not shown) is closed by the second shutter 52. In addition, Fig.15 Part (b) shows a state in which the third opening portion 49 (not shown) is opened.

[0186] exist Fig.15 In the modification shown, the toner cartridge E is provided with two gears (38, 48). The drive transmission portion 38 is a drive input gear for receiving a driving force from the developing unit D. The second drive transmission portion 48 is a transmission gear (second gear) that transmits the driving force received by the drive transmission portion 38 toward the second toner feeding member 46. The second driving force transmission portion 48 is coaxially arranged with the second toner feeding member 46.

[0187] This structure allows the second baffle 53 to be moved from the closed position ( Fig.15 The part (a) in the figure moves to the open position ( Fig.15 When the limiting portion 53x1 and the limiting portion 53x2 are close to the axis of the drive input gear (drive transmission portion 38), the limiting portion 53x1 and the limiting portion 53x2 are close to the axis of the drive input gear (drive transmission portion 38).

[0188] Here, engagement between gears is referred to as meshing, and when a belt or the like provided with a protrusion is engaged, it is considered to be meshing.

[0189] (Switching from toner cartridge insertion operation to shutter release operation)

[0190] Next, refer to Figure 1 Part (a), Fig. 9 Part (a) and Fig. 9 In part (b) of the present embodiment, a switching operation from the insertion operation of the toner cartridge E to the shutter releasing operation, which is a feature of the present embodiment, will be described. Fig. 9 Part (a) is a side view showing the relationship of forces acting on the toner cartridge E when the insertion into the developing unit D is completed. In addition, Fig. 9Part (b) is a side view showing the relationship of forces acting on the colorant cartridge E in another structural example of the abutment portion 42a.

[0191] Here, for the sake of convenience, the insertion guide portion 35d can be seen.

[0192] like Fig. 9 As shown in part (a) of the drawing, the toner cartridge E is inserted into the developing unit D by the operation of the user, whereby the abutting portion 42a and the abutted portion 35a abut against each other. At this time, the force F1 and the force F2 act on the toner cartridge E. More specifically, the force F1 applied when the user inserts the toner cartridge E acts on the operating portion 44, and by reaction, the equivalent force F2 acts on the abutting portion 42a of the insertion guided portion 42.

[0193] Here, consider a plane (imaginary plane) m which is parallel to the installation direction of the toner cartridge E and passes through the rotation axis S (rotation center of the second shutter member 53) of the toner cartridge E. The length of the arm extending from the plane m to the operating portion 44 is r1, and the length of the arm from the rotation axis (rotation center) S to the abutment portion 42a is r2. At this time, the third opening portion 49 ( Figure 5 The torque M acting on the rotation axis S of part (d)) can be expressed by the following equation.

[0194] M=F1×r1+F2×r2

[0195] In addition, if Fig. 9 As shown in part (a), the rotation direction of the toner cartridge E (container frame 47a) when the second opening portion 30 and the third opening portion 49 are opened is the direction of the counterclockwise arrow e when the toner cartridge E is viewed along the rotation axis direction of the container frame 47a. Here, in the present embodiment, the abutment portion 42a is positioned on a plane m passing through the rotation center S of the container frame 47a and parallel to the insertion direction (guiding direction) f, and therefore, r2 = 0. In addition, when the opening direction (the direction of the arrow e) of the second opening portion 30 and the third opening portion 49 is the positive direction, the operating portion 44 is disposed on the downstream side of the plane m along the rotation direction e.

[0196] Therefore, F1 x r1>0, then, M>0.

[0197] Because F1 x r1>0, M>0, the force F1 applied by the user when inserting the toner cartridge E into the developing unit D is converted into a rotational force in the opening direction e of the second opening portion 30 and the third opening portion 49. Therefore, the entire toner cartridge E is rotated by the force F1 along the direction f in the direction in which the toner cartridge E is inserted.

[0198] Here, the larger the value of the moment M, the easier it is to rotate the toner cartridge E. In other words, the larger the value of the moment M, the easier it is to operate the opening operation of the second opening portion 30 and the third opening portion 49 more smoothly.

[0199] Here, as a structure for increasing the moment M, for example, it is conceivable to change the position where the abutment portion 42a is arranged (such as Fig. 9 More specifically, it is conceivable to arrange the abutment portion 42a at a position away from the operation portion 44 relative to a plane m passing through the rotation center S of the container frame 47a and parallel to the mounting direction f.

[0200] When the force acting on the abutment portion 42a is F3 and the distance from the surface m to the abutment portion 42a is r3, the moment M acting on the rotation center S can be expressed by the following equation, as Fig. 9 The structure in part (a).

[0201] M=F1×r1+F3×r3

[0202] At this time, F3×r3 is the moment of the second opening portion 30 and the third opening portion 49 in the opening direction e. Therefore, the moment M becomes larger, and the container frame 47a is easy to rotate in the opening direction e. Here, the above-mentioned positional relationship between the abutment portion 42a and the operating portion 44 can be applied to the relationship between the abutment portion 43a and the operating portion 44, where the result has the same effect.

[0203] (Baffle closing operation)

[0204] refer to Fig.10 Part (a), Fig.10 Part (b), Fig.11 Part (b) and Fig.12 In the section (b) of the present invention, the closing operation of the first shutter 37 of the developing unit D and the second shutter 53 of the toner cartridge E will be described. The closing operation of the first shutter 37 and the second shutter 53 is opposite to the above-mentioned opening operation. Here, the closing direction of the first shutter 37 and the second shutter 53 is the direction in which the container frame 47a is closed in the clockwise direction ( Fig.12 The direction of rotation is the direction of arrow h in part (b).

[0205] First, in Fig.12 In the state shown in part (b), the user operates the operating portion 44 to rotate the container frame 47a in the closing direction (the direction of arrow h, the closing direction). Fig.11As shown in part (b) of the container frame 47a, the surface 45b of the protrusion 45 of the container frame 47a abuts against the surface 37a2 of the hole portion 37a of the first shutter 37, and a force F6 is applied from the surface 45b to the surface 37a2. Thus, the surface 37a2 of the first shutter 37 receives a force in the direction of the arrow h from the surface 45b, and rotates in conjunction with the rotation operation of the container 47. And, the first shutter 37 moves to the closed position in which the first shutter 37 closes the second opening portion 30. The surface 45b of the protrusion 45 is a closing force applying portion, which is used to move the first shutter 37 to the closed position by applying a force to the first shutter 37.

[0206] In addition, Fig.12 In the state, the user operates the operating part 44 to rotate the container frame 47a in the closing direction (the direction of arrow h, the closing direction).

[0207] Here, when the toner cartridge E continues to rotate about the rotation axis S in the direction of the arrow h, the restricting portion 53x2 is in a position where it contacts the surface 35d1 ( Fig.12 Similarly, when the toner cartridge E continues to rotate about the rotation axis S in the direction of arrow h, the restricting portion 53x1 is in a position where it contacts the surface 35d1.

[0208] When the container frame 47a starts to rotate in the direction of the arrow h, the limiting portion 53x2 of the extension portion 53x abuts against the surface 35d1 of the insertion guide portion 35d. Fig.11 As shown in part (a) of FIG. 5 , the limiting portion 53x1 receives the reaction force F3 from the surface 35d1. Fig.10 As shown in part (a), even if the rotation of the container frame 47a advances in the direction of arrow h, the limiting portion 53x2 continues to receive the reaction force F3 from the surface 35d1. Therefore, the extending portion 53x does not rotate in the direction of arrow h together with the container frame 47a.

[0209] Similarly, when the container frame 47a starts to rotate in the direction of the arrow h, the limiting portion 53x1 of the extension portion 53x abuts against the surface 36d1 of the insertion guide portion 36d, as shown in FIG. Fig.11 As shown in part (b) of FIG. 5 , the limiting portion 53x1 receives a force F4 from the surface 36d1 in the direction of arrow Y. Therefore, as shown in FIG. Fig.10 As shown in part (b), even if the rotation of the container frame 47a is advanced in the direction of arrow h, the limiting portion 53x1 continues to receive the reaction force F4 from the surface 36d2. Therefore, the extending portion 53x does not rotate in the direction of arrow h together with the container frame 47a.

[0210] According to the foregoing, the insertion guide portions 35d, 36d regulate the rotation of the extension portion 53x together with the container frame 47a in the direction of arrow h. That is, the insertion guide portions regulate the rotation of the second shutter 53 together with the container frame 47a in the direction of arrow h.

[0211] The second shutter 53 and the container frame 47 a become movable relative to each other. Therefore, the second shutter 53 moves to the closed position relative to the container frame 47 a to close the third opening portion 49 .

[0212] The force F3 received by the limiting portion 53x2 and the force F4 received by the limiting portion 53x1 effectively move the second shutter 53 from the open position to the closed position.

[0213] And, when the container frame 47a is further rotated in the closing direction (the direction of arrow h), the toner cartridge E is ready to be removed from the developing unit D, as shown in FIG. Fig.10 Part (a) and Fig.10 At this time, the second opening portion 30 and the third opening portion 49 are closed by the first baffle 37 and the second baffle 53, respectively.

[0214] In a state where the toner cartridge E has been inserted into the mounting position of the developing unit D ( Fig. 9 The operating portion 44 is located on the downstream (in the rotation direction of the container frame 47a) side of the imaginary plane m that passes through the rotation center and extends in the insertion direction f when viewed in the rotation axis direction of the container frame 47a. This structure is such that at this position, the operating portion 44 receives a force for rotating the container frame 47a by the operation of the user. This position is a position where a moment for rotating the container frame 47a relative to the developing unit D is generated when the operating portion 44 receives a force acting in the insertion direction f.

[0215] In other words, in the toner cartridge E according to the present embodiment, the structure is such that the force ( Fig. 9 The arrow R in the figure includes the force component in the insertion direction f ( Fig. 9 47a). By the user applying force to the operating portion 44 in the insertion direction f at the time of insertion, when the toner cartridge E reaches the installation position, the force in the insertion direction f acts on the operating portion 44. That is, when the toner cartridge E reaches the installation position, a part of the force required to rotate the container frame 47a has been applied to the operating portion 44. Therefore, by the user's operation of pushing the operating portion 44 in the insertion direction f, even when the container frame 47a rotates as the toner cartridge E is inserted into the installation position, the force in the insertion direction f continues to act on the operating portion 44.

[0216] Thus, the user grasps the operation portion (grip portion) 44 and inserts the toner cartridge E into the mounting position of the developing unit D, and then, in a series of mounting operations for rotating the container frame 47a, the force conversion from the insertion operation to the rotation operation is smoothly performed. Therefore, the user can intuitively operate the insertion of the toner cartridge E into the developing unit D and the opening operation of the first shutter 37 and the second shutter 53, thereby significantly improving the operability.

[0217] In addition, in the present embodiment, when the toner cartridge E is in the installation position, when the toner cartridge E is viewed in the direction of the rotation axis of the container frame 47a, the operating portion (gripping portion) 44 is arranged at a position farther from the rotation center (rotation axis) than the abutting portion 42a. This structure allows the operating portion 44 to receive a force from the user in this state. Thus, during the rotation of the container frame 47a, the container frame 47a can rotate with a small force against the sliding resistance between the abutting portion 42a and the abutted portion 35a and the rotation guide portion 35b. The same applies to the sliding resistance between the abutting portion 43a and the abutted portion 36a and the rotation guide 36b.

[0218] Reference Fig.19 The arrangement of the operating section 44 in the present embodiment is described in more detail. Fig.19 1 is a diagram for explaining the arrangement of the operating portion, and shows a state in which the toner cartridge E is viewed in the longitudinal direction thereof.

[0219] Fig.19 The state in which the second baffle 53 closes the third opening portion 49 is shown. In this state, the operating portion 44 is arranged between the front end portion 53c of the second baffle 53 and the extension portion 53x. More specifically, in the direction of arrow u, the operating portion 44 is located on the upstream side of the front end portion (the end portion on the downstream side in the direction of arrow b) 53c of the second baffle 53. And, the operating portion 44 is arranged on the downstream side of the extension portion 53x and the limiting portions (engaging portions) 53x1, 53x2 in the direction of arrow u. When the operating portion 44 is arranged in this position, when the user opens the second baffle 53 by operating the operating portion 44, the extension portion 53x and the limiting portions 53x1, 53x2 do not hinder the movement of the operating portion. That is, when the second baffle 53 is opened, the operating portion 44 moves in the direction of arrow u, and therefore, the extension portion 53x (limiting portions 53x1, 53x2) arranged on the upstream side of the operating portion 44 in the direction of arrow u is unlikely to affect the movement of the operating portion 44.

[0220] Here, the arrow u direction is a direction in which the container 47 and the operating portion 44 move relative to the second shutter 53 when the second shutter 53 opens the toner outlet (third opening portion 49). At this time, the second shutter 53 moves in the direction of the arrow n opposite to the arrow u relative to the container 47 and the operating portion 44. The arrow n direction is the moving direction of the second shutter 53 when the discharge opening is released (the opening direction of the opening and closing member).

[0221] Here, the direction of arrow n indicates the direction in which the container 47 and the operating portion 44 move relative to the second shutter 53 when the second shutter 53 closes the discharge opening (third opening portion 49) (movement direction of the container 47). At this time, the second shutter 53 moves in the direction of arrow u relative to the container 47 and the operating portion 44. That is, the direction of arrow u is also the movement direction of the shutter 53 when the discharge opening is closed (closing direction of the opening and closing member).

[0222] That is, in the closing direction (direction of arrow u) in which the second baffle 53 moves relative to the container 47 to close the third opening portion 49, the operating portion 44 is located upstream of the downstream end of the second baffle 53 and on the downstream side of the extension portion 53x (limiting portions 53x1, 53x2).

[0223] Here, the limiting portion (53x1, 53x2) and the operating portion 44 occupy the area of ​​the angle θ1 with the center R of the container 47 as a reference. In the present embodiment, the angle θ1 is 50 degrees or less. That is, with the center of the container 47 as a reference, the entire limiting portion (53x1, 53x2) and the entire operating portion 44 are in the area of ​​the angle of 50 degrees. Preferably, at least a portion of the limiting portion (53x1, 53x2) and a portion of the operating portion 44 are in the area of ​​the angle of 50 degrees. As described above, the toner cartridge E can be kept small in size.

[0224] Here, the center R of the container 47, which is the reference of the angle θ1, is the rotation axis of the container 47. That is, when the second shutter 53 is opened and closed, the rotation center R of the container 47 is the reference of the angle θ1. In addition, the frame of the container 47 has a substantially cylindrical shape. The center R of the cylindrical shape is the reference of the angle θ1.

[0225] (Example of modification of the regulatory part).

[0226] Here, if Fig.10 As shown, in this embodiment, the restricting portion 53x1 and the restricting portion 53x2 provided in the extending portion 53x are configured to have a circular cross-sectional shape when viewed from the longitudinal direction. However, as long as the above-mentioned arrangement conditions are met, the cross-sectional shape thereof is not limited to a circular shape.

[0227] Reference Fig.16 Part (a), Fig.16 Part (b) and Fig.16 Part (c) of the present invention describes a modified example of the structure of the limiting portion 53x2. Fig.16 Part (a), Fig.16 Part (b) and Fig.16 Part (c) is a view from the side opposite to the driving side (in the longitudinal direction) when the toner cartridge E is inserted into the predetermined position of the developing unit D. However, the shape, number, and arrangement of the protrusions are not intended to be limited to the illustrated example. In addition, the shape, etc. are not limited to the limiting portion 53x2, and may be used for the limiting portion 53x1.

[0228] That is to say, Fig.16 In the portion (a), the cross-sectional shape of the limiting portion 53x2 viewed in the longitudinal direction may be a square. Each of the insertion guided portion 42 and the limiting portion 53x2 is projected on a line n perpendicular to the insertion direction f. At this time, even with this structure, the projection area 53y2 of the limiting portion 53x2 falls within the projection area 50 of the insertion guided portion 42.

[0229] In addition, when the toner cartridge E continues to rotate around the rotation axis S in the direction of arrow e, the limiting portion 53x2 is in a position where it contacts the surface 35d2. More specifically, when the toner cartridge E continues to rotate around the rotation axis S in the direction of arrow e, the surface 53x2a of the limiting portion 53x2 located on the downstream side in the direction of arrow e is in a position where it contacts the surface 35d2. Therefore, when the toner cartridge E continues to rotate in the direction of arrow e, the surface 53x2a continues to receive the force F1 from the surface 35d2. Therefore, the extension portion 53x does not rotate in the direction of arrow e together with the container frame 47a (not shown). In addition, when the toner cartridge E continues to rotate around the rotation axis S in the direction of arrow h, the limiting portion 53x2 is in a position where it contacts the surface 35d1. More specifically, when the toner cartridge E continues to rotate around the rotation axis S in the direction of arrow h, the surface 53x2b of the limiting portion 53x2 located on the downstream side in the direction of arrow h is in a position where it contacts the surface 35d1. Therefore, when the toner cartridge E continues to rotate in the direction of arrow h, the surface 53x2b continues to receive the force F3 from the surface 35d2. Therefore, the extension portion 53x does not rotate in the direction of arrow h together with the container frame 47a (not shown).

[0230] In addition, if Fig.16As shown in part (b), the cross-sectional shape at the end of the extension portion 53x may not be a circle or a square. Here, in the present embodiment, the limiting portion 53x2 is a portion represented by the surface 53x2c, the surface 53x2d, and the surface 53x2e. At this time, when each of the insertion guided portion 42 and the limiting portion 53x2 is projected onto a line n perpendicular to the insertion direction f, the projection area 53y2 of the limiting portion 53x2 falls into the projection area 50 of the insertion guided portion 42.

[0231] In addition, when the toner cartridge E is inserted into the predetermined position of the developing unit D, a portion of the limiting portion 53x2 enters the insertion guide 35d. At this time, when the toner cartridge E continues to rotate around the rotation axis S in the direction of the arrow e, the surface 53x2c of the limiting portion 53x2 is in a position where it contacts the surface 35d2. More specifically, when the toner cartridge E continues to rotate around the rotation axis S in the direction of the arrow e, the surface 53x2c located on the downstream side in the direction of the arrow e of the limiting portion 53x2 is in a position where it contacts the surface 35d2. Therefore, when the toner cartridge E continues to rotate in the direction of the arrow e, the surface 53x2c continues to receive the force F1 from the surface 35d2. Therefore, the extension portion 53x does not rotate in the direction of the arrow e together with the container frame 47a (not shown).

[0232] In addition, when the toner cartridge E continues to rotate around the rotation axis S in the direction of arrow h, the limiting portion 53x2 is in a position where it contacts the surface 35d1. More specifically, when the toner cartridge E continues to rotate around the rotation axis S in the direction of arrow h, the surface 53x2d of the limiting portion 53x2 located on the downstream side in the direction of arrow h is in a position where it contacts the surface 35d1. Therefore, when the toner cartridge E continues to rotate in the direction of arrow h, the surface 53x2d continues to receive the force F3 from the surface 35d2. Therefore, the extension portion 53x does not rotate in the direction of arrow h together with the container frame 47a (not shown).

[0233] In addition, if Fig.16 As shown in part (c), the limiting portion 53x2 may be provided by a plurality of members. Here, in the present embodiment, the limiting portion 53x2 is a portion represented by a protrusion 53x2f and a protrusion 53x2g. When each of the insertion guided portion 42 and the limiting portion 53x2 is projected onto a line n perpendicular to the insertion direction f, the projection area 53y2 of the limiting portion 53x2 falls into the projection area 50 of the insertion guided portion 42.

[0234] In addition, when the toner cartridge E is inserted into the predetermined position of the developing unit D, a portion of the limiting portion 53x2 enters the insertion guide 35d. At this time, when the toner cartridge E continues to rotate around the rotation axis S in the direction of the arrow e, the protrusion 53x2f of the limiting portion 53x2 is in a position where it contacts the surface 35d2. Therefore, when the toner cartridge E continues to rotate in the direction of the arrow e, the protrusion 53x2f continues to receive the force F1 from the surface 35d2. Therefore, the extension portion 53x does not rotate in the direction of the arrow e together with the container frame 47a (not shown).

[0235] In addition, when the toner cartridge E continues to rotate about the rotation axis S in the direction of arrow h, the protrusion 53x2g of the restricting portion 53x2 is in a position where it contacts the surface 35d1. Therefore, when the toner cartridge E continues to rotate in the direction of arrow h, the protrusion 53x2g continues to receive the force F3 from the surface 35d2. Therefore, the extending portion 53x does not rotate in the direction of arrow h together with the container frame 47a (not shown).

[0236] (Modified Example of Developing Unit D)

[0237] Next, we will refer to Fig.17 and Fig.18 A modified example of the developing unit D is described. Fig.17 1 is a perspective view showing the periphery of the first shutter 37 of the developing unit D, wherein part (a) shows a state in which the first shutter 37 is opened, and part (b) shows a closed state. Fig.18 It is a cross-sectional view of the toner cartridge E and the developing unit D. Fig.18 Part (a) shows a process in which the toner cartridge E is inserted into the developing unit D, and Fig.18 Part (b) shows a state in which the insertion of the toner cartridge E is completed. Fig.18 Part (c) is Fig.18 An enlarged view of a portion of portion (b).

[0238] In this modified example, a locking arm (receiving device side locking member) 61 is provided in the developing unit D to prevent accidental opening of the first shutter 37. Fig.17 As shown, two locking arms 61 are provided on the developing unit D, and each locking arm 61 has a claw portion (engaging portion, protruding portion, locking portion) 61a at a free end portion thereof. In addition, the locking arm 61 can be elastically deformed.

[0239] The claw portion 61 a of the lock arm 61 is located at the same position in the longitudinal direction of the developing unit D as the hole portion 37 a of the first shutter 37 .

[0240] And, in the state where the first shutter 37 closes the second opening portion 30, the claw portion 61a enters the hole portion 37a to engage with the hole portion 37a. Thereby, the claw portion 61a locks the movement of the first shutter 37 and prevents the first shutter 37 from being accidentally opened.

[0241] Here, in the process of inserting the toner cartridge E into the developing unit D, as shown in FIG. Fig.18 As shown in part (b) of the embodiment, two protrusions 45 provided on the toner cartridge E contact the corresponding claw portions 61a. When the protrusions 45 contact the claw portions 61a, the locking arm 61 is elastically deformed so that the claw portions 61a are retracted from the hole portions 37a to unlock the first shutter 37. That is, the first shutter 37 becomes movable.

[0242] When toner cartridge E is in Fig.18 When rotated relative to the developing unit D in the state shown in part (b), as described above, the claw portion 45 engages with the hole portion 37a, so that the first shutter 37 can be moved to the open position.

[0243] In addition, when the toner cartridge E is removed from the developing unit D, the claw portion 61a enters the hole portion 37a to lock the first shutter 37 ( Fig.18 part (a)).

[0244] In the above-described modified example, the protrusion 45 of the toner cartridge E serves as a release protrusion for releasing the lock of the lock arm 61 .

[0245] (Summarize)

[0246] In the present embodiment, the second shutter 53 is configured to be rotatable around the container 47 (container frame 47a). Thus, the second shutter 53 can be opened and closed by an operation (rotation operation) in which the toner cartridge E is rotated relative to the developing unit D (receiving device). When the second shutter 53 is opened and closed by the rotation operation of the toner cartridge E, the space (place) required for opening and closing the second shutter 53 can be reduced compared to the case where the second shutter 53 is opened and closed by the linear movement of the toner cartridge E.

[0247] That is, when the toner cartridge E rotates relative to the developing unit D, although the posture of the toner cartridge E changes, the center (rotation axis S) of the toner cartridge E hardly moves relative to the developing unit D. That is, in the opening and closing operation of the second shutter 53, the area occupied by the toner cartridge E in the developing unit D hardly changes. As a result, it is not necessary to provide a large space for the developing unit D to open and close the second shutter 53. That is, by adopting the toner cartridge E as in the present embodiment, the size of the receiving device (developing unit D) that receives the toner cartridge E and the image forming device provided with the receiving device can be reduced.

[0248] [Industrial Applicability]

[0249] According to the present invention, there is provided a toner cartridge and a toner supply mechanism for forming an electrophotographic image.

[0250] [symbol]

[0251] 16: Photosensitive drum (image bearing member)

[0252] 17: Charging roller

[0253] 19: Cleaning scraper

[0254] 24: Developing roller (developer carrying member)

[0255] 25: Developing scraper

[0256] 27: First toner feeding device

[0257] 28: First toner accommodating portion (developer accommodating portion)

[0258] 29: First Opening

[0259] 30: Second opening (accommodating main body opening, receiving opening)

[0260] 31: Development Room

[0261] 32: First seal

[0262] 34: First baffle guide part

[0263] 35: Framework

[0264] 35a: Abutted portion

[0265] 35d: Insert guide section

[0266] 36a: Abutted portion

[0267] 36d: Insert guide section

[0268] 37: First baffle

[0269] 37a: Hole part

[0270] 38: First drive transmission portion (second gear)

[0271] 42: Insertion of the guided portion (guided portion, toner cartridge side guide portion)

[0272] 42a: Abutment portion

[0273] 43: Insertion of guided portion (guided portion, toner cartridge side guide portion)

[0274] 43a: Abutment portion

[0275] 44: Operation part

[0276] 45: Protrusion (container side engaging portion, opening / closing member moving portion, container side protrusion)

[0277] 46: Second toner feeding member

[0278] 47: Container

[0279] 47a: Container Framework

[0280] 47a1: Sidewall

[0281] 47a2: Sidewall

[0282] 47t: Second toner container

[0283] 48: Second drive transmission part

[0284] 49: Third opening (container opening, discharge opening)

[0285] 53: Second baffle

[0286] 53c: Free end portion

[0287] 53m: Baffle body

[0288] 53x: Extension

[0289] 53x1: Limiting Surface

[0290] 53x2: Restricted Surface

[0291] 54: Second seal

[0292] 58: Connected part

[0293] a: Imaging equipment

[0294] c: Drum unit

[0295] d: Development unit

[0296] e: Toner cartridge

[0297] f: Insertion direction

[0298] t: Toner

Claims

1. A toner cartridge, comprising: (1) A container comprising: (1-1) a containing portion for containing toner, (1-2) a discharge opening for discharging the toner from the containing portion toward a receiving opening, and (1-3) at least one protrusion protruding outward from the container beyond a side wall of the container in a longitudinal direction of the container and extending in a predetermined direction; (2) an opening / closing member, the opening / closing member comprising: (2-1) a closing portion for closing the discharge opening, and (2-2) an engaging portion protruding outward from the container beyond the side wall of the container in the longitudinal direction of the container, wherein the opening / closing member is rotatable around and along the container between a closed position for causing the closing portion to close the discharge opening and an open position for causing the closing portion to open the discharge opening, Wherein when the colorant box is viewed along the longitudinal direction, when the protrusion and the engaging portion are projected on a first imaginary line perpendicular to the predetermined direction, at least a portion of the projected area of ​​the engaging portion is located between the projected areas of the protrusion. 2 . The toner cartridge according to claim 1 , wherein the container is provided with an operating portion.

3. A colorant box according to claim 2, wherein when the opening / closing member is in the closed position, in the closing direction in which the opening / closing member moves to close the discharge opening, the operating portion is arranged upstream of the downstream end portion of the closing portion and downstream of the engaging portion.

4. A colorant box according to claim 2 or 3, wherein when viewed along the longitudinal direction in a state where the opening / closing member closes the discharge opening, at least a portion of the engaging portion and at least a portion of the operating portion are arranged within an angular range of not more than 50° around the center of the container. 5 . The toner cartridge according to claim 2 , wherein the operating portion has a U-shape.

6. The toner cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the opening / closing member includes two such engaging portions, and wherein the engaging portions are respectively provided at opposite longitudinal end portions of the opening / closing member.

7. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the opening / closing member is provided with an extending portion extending over an entire area of ​​the container in a longitudinal direction of the container, and wherein the engaging portion is provided at an end portion of the extending portion. 8 . The toner cartridge according to claim 7 , wherein the opening / closing member is provided with at least two such engaging portions, and wherein the engaging portions are provided at opposite end portions of the extending portion, respectively.

9. The toner cartridge according to claim 7, wherein at least a portion of the extending portion is made of metal.

10. A colorant box according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the container includes a second protrusion and a third protrusion, the second protrusion and the third protrusion are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the container and protrude in the radial direction of the container, and wherein by the operation of closing the discharge opening by the opening / closing member, the downstream end portion of the closing portion in the closing direction of the opening / closing member approaches the second protrusion and the third protrusion.

11. A colorant box according to claim 10, wherein when the second protrusion and the third protrusion and the discharge opening are projected onto a second imaginary line extending in the longitudinal direction of the container, at least a portion of the projection area of ​​the discharge opening is located between the projection areas of the second protrusion and the third protrusion. 12 . The toner cartridge according to claim 11 , wherein on the second imaginary line, an entire projection area of ​​the discharge opening is located between projection areas of the second protrusion and the third protrusion.

13. The toner cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the container is provided with a drive input gear for receiving a driving force from the outside of the toner cartridge. 14 . The toner cartridge according to claim 13 , wherein the container is provided with a feeding member configured to feed the toner from the accommodating portion toward the discharge opening by a driving force received by the drive input gear. 15 . The toner cartridge according to claim 14 , wherein the container is provided with a second gear engaged with the drive input gear to receive the driving force. 16 . The toner cartridge according to claim 15 , wherein the second gear is disposed coaxially with the feeding member. 17 . The toner cartridge according to claim 13 , wherein the engaging portion approaches an axis of the drive input gear as the opening / closing member moves from the open position toward the closed position.

18. The toner cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the container has a substantially cylindrical shape.

19. The toner cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the discharge opening is provided on an outer peripheral surface of the container, and The opening / closing member is rotatable around and along the outer peripheral surface of the container.

20. The toner cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the container guides the opening / closing member by covering an end portion of the closing portion.

21. The toner cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the discharge opening is provided at a center of the container with respect to a longitudinal direction of the container.

22. A toner supply mechanism, comprising: Receiving equipment; as well as A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the toner cartridge is detachably mountable to the receiving device.

Images