box

Abstract

A cartridge comprising: a housing; a storage medium having an electrical contact surface; and a holder capable of moving relative to the housing. The holder comprises a first holder member and a second holder member capable of moving relative to the first holder member. The first holder member comprises at least one pawl and holds the electrical contact surface at one end surface of the first holder member in a first direction intersecting the electrical contact surface. The second holder member comprises at least one corner portion capable of engaging with the at least one pawl to provide a joint therebetween. The second holder member has a through hole that opens at the other end surface of the second holder member in the first direction. The joint is accessible from the outside of the holder through the through hole.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cartridge. Background Art

[0002] Electrophotographic image forming devices, such as laser printers and LED printers, are known. These image forming devices use a developer cartridge. The developer cartridge includes a developing roller for supplying toner. Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-116826 discloses a conventional developer cartridge that includes a holder for holding a storage medium.

[0003] To recycle a developer cartridge containing a storage medium, the information stored in the storage medium is rewritten, or the storage medium is exchanged with a new one. However, with the conventional developer cartridge described above, the cover holding the retainer is screwed to the developer cartridge housing. Therefore, each time the storage medium is rewritten or exchanged, the cover must be removed from the housing. This increases the workload of recycling. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of the foregoing, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a technique for reducing the amount of work generated for recycling a cartridge including a holder.

[0005] (1) In order to achieve the above and other purposes, according to one aspect, the present disclosure provides a box including a shell, a storage medium and a holder. The storage medium includes an electrical contact surface. The holder is movable relative to the shell. The holder includes a first holder member and a second holder member. The first holder member holds the electrical contact surface, and the first holder member includes at least one pawl. The first holder member has an end face in a first direction intersecting the electrical contact surface, and the electrical contact surface is located at the one end face. The second holder member is movable relative to the first holder member. The second holder member includes at least one corner portion that can engage with at least one pawl to provide a joint therebetween. The second holder member has one end and another end face in the first direction. The second holder member has a through hole opening at the other end face. The joint can be approached from the outside of the holder through the through hole.

[0006] (2) In the cartridge according to aspect (1), preferably, at least one pawl is configured to be disengaged from at least one corner portion through the through-hole from the outside of the holder.

[0007] (3) In the cartridge according to aspect (1), preferably, at least one pawl is configured to disengage from at least one corner portion through the through hole from the outside of the holder to enable detachment of the first holder member from the second holder member.

[0008] (4) In a box according to any one of aspects (1) to (3), it is preferred that: at least one pawl includes a first pawl and a second pawl, wherein at least one corner portion includes: a first corner portion, the first corner portion engages with the first pawl to provide a first engagement portion between the first corner portion and the first pawl; and a second corner portion, the second corner portion engages with the second pawl to provide a second engagement portion between the second corner portion and the second pawl, and wherein the through hole includes: a first through hole, the first engagement portion is approached from the outside of the retainer through the first through hole; and a second through hole, the second engagement portion is approached from the outside of the retainer through the second through hole.

[0009] (5) In the box according to aspect (4), preferably, the first pawl includes: a first arm portion extending in a first direction; and a first hook portion, the first hook portion protruding from a head end portion of the first arm portion in a second direction intersecting the first direction, the first hook portion being engageable with the first corner portion. Preferably, the second pawl includes: a second arm portion extending in the first direction; and a second hook portion protruding from a head end portion of the second arm portion in a second direction, the second hook portion being engageable with the second corner portion.

[0010] (6) In the cartridge according to aspect (5), preferably, the first through hole extends through the second holder member toward the first hook portion in the first direction, and the second through hole extends through the second holder member toward the second hook portion in the first direction.

[0011] (7) In the cartridge according to aspect (5) or (6), it is preferred that the first hook portion protrudes toward one side in the second direction, and the second hook portion protrudes toward the other side in the second direction.

[0012] (8) In the box according to any one of aspects (1) to (7), preferably, the holder further includes an elastic urging member located between the first holder member and the second holder member, the elastic urging member being configured to expand and compress in the first direction.

[0013] (9) In the cartridge according to aspect (8), preferably, the elastic urging member is configured to expand and compress in the first direction to provide a first state and a second state, the elastic urging member being more compressed in the first direction in the second state than in the first state. Preferably, at least one pawl engages at least one corner portion in the first state of the elastic urging member.

[0014] (10) In the cartridge according to aspect (8) or (9), preferably, the elastic urging member is a spring.

[0015] (11) In the box according to aspect (10), it is preferred that: the spring is a coil spring having one end and the other end in the first direction, and the second retainer member further includes a columnar portion that is inserted into the other end of the coil spring to fix the other end of the coil spring to the columnar portion.

[0016] (12) In the box according to aspect (11), preferably, the columnar portion extends in the first direction and includes: a large diameter portion, into which the other end of the coil spring is pressed; and a small diameter portion, the small diameter portion having a smaller diameter than the large diameter portion, the small diameter portion being closer to one end of the first retainer member in the first direction than the large diameter portion is to one end of the first retainer member.

[0017] (13) Preferably, the cartridge according to any one of aspects (1) to (12) further comprises a retainer cover positioned on the outer surface of the housing and moving together with the housing. The second retainer member is positioned between the outer surface of the housing and the retainer cover and is movably supported by the housing and the retainer cover.

[0018] (14) In the cartridge according to aspect (13), preferably, the through hole is exposed to the outside through the holder cover.

[0019] (15) In the cartridge according to aspect (13) or (14), preferably, the holder cover is screwed to the housing.

[0020] (16) In the box according to any one of aspects (1) to (15), preferably, at least one pawl is configured to be pressed in a direction away from at least one corner portion through the through hole to disengage from at least one corner portion.

[0021] (17) In the cartridge according to any one of aspects (1) to (16), preferably, the first holder member is movable in the first direction relative to the second holder member.

[0022] (18) In the cartridge according to any one of aspects (1) to (17), preferably, the first holder member holds the storage medium.

[0023] (19) In the cartridge according to any one of aspects (1) to (18), preferably, the storage medium is a memory.

[0024] (20) In the cartridge according to any one of aspects (1) to (19), preferably, the storage medium stores therein information on at least one of identification information of the cartridge and life information of the cartridge.

[0025] According to aspects (1) to (20) of the present disclosure, the pawl can be disengaged from the corner portion by pressing the pawl through the through hole. With this configuration, the first retainer member holding the electrical contact surface can be removed while the second retainer member remains in the box, thereby reducing the number of processes for recycling the box. In addition, since the through hole opens at the other end face of the second retainer member in the first direction, the pawl can be accessed from the other side of the retainer in the first direction.

[0026] According to aspect (7) of the present disclosure, the first hook portion and the second hook portion can be approached in the same direction while the first hook portion and the second hook portion protrude in directions opposite to each other.

[0027] According to aspect (9) of the present disclosure, the engagement of the pawl with the corner portion can prevent the first holder member from being detached from the second holder member.

[0028] According to the aspect (11) of the present disclosure, the first retainer member can be detached from the second retainer member with the coil spring connected to the second retainer member.

[0029] According to aspect (12) of the present disclosure, the coil spring can be fixed to the large diameter portion, and the small diameter portion can prevent the coil spring from tilting.

[0030] According to aspect (14) of the present disclosure, the pawl can be accessed through the through hole without removing the retainer cover.

[0031] According to aspect (15) of the present disclosure, the first holder member can be disassembled without removing the holder cover from the housing. This configuration can prevent the occurrence of deformation of the screw hole due to tightening and loosening of the screw. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] Certain features and advantages of the embodiments, as well as other objects, will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0033] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a developing cartridge according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 2 is a partially exploded perspective view of a developing cartridge according to an embodiment;

[0035] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a memory assembly in a developing cartridge according to an embodiment;

[0036] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of a memory assembly;

[0037] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the memory assembly, specifically illustrating a first state of the coil spring;

[0038] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the memory assembly, specifically illustrating a second state of the coil spring;

[0039] Figure 7 is a view showing a portion around the memory assembly in the developing cartridge viewed from the other side in the first direction;

[0040] Figure 8 is a sectional view showing a state for describing that the developing cartridge is attached to the memory assembly of the drum cartridge;

[0041] Figure 9 is a view showing a state of the developing cartridge viewed from one side in the second direction, for describing that the developing roller of the developing cartridge is separated from the photosensitive drum of the drum cartridge;

[0042] Figure 10 is a perspective view for describing the developing cartridge with the first holder member detached from the second holder member;

[0043] Figure 11 is a view showing a state of the developing cartridge viewed from one side in the second direction, for describing detachment of the first holder member from the second holder member, and particularly showing an initial state of the developing cartridge;

[0044] Figure 12 is a view showing a state of the developing cartridge viewed from one side in the second direction, for describing the detachment of the first holder member from the second holder member, and specifically showing Figure 11 The state after the state shown in ;

[0045] Figure 13 is a view showing a state of the developing cartridge viewed from one side in the second direction, for describing the detachment of the first holder member from the second holder member, and specifically showing Figure 12 The state after the state shown in ;

[0046] Figure 14 is a perspective view of a developing cartridge for describing the attachment of a first holder member to a second holder member;

[0047] Figure 15 is a view showing a state of the developing cartridge viewed from one side in the second direction, for describing attachment of the first holder member to the second holder member, and particularly showing an initial state of the developing cartridge;

[0048] Figure 16 is a view showing a state of the developing cartridge viewed from one side in the second direction, for describing attachment of the first holder member to the second holder member, and specifically showing Figure 15 The state following the state shown in ; and

[0049] Figure 17 is a view showing a state of the developing cartridge viewed from one side in the second direction, for describing attachment of the first holder member to the second holder member, and specifically showing Figure 16 The state after the state shown in . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] Hereinafter, a developing cartridge 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0051] In the following description, the electrical contact surface 411 ( Figure 2 ) will be referred to as the "first direction". In addition, the developing roller 20 ( Figure 2 ) will be referred to as the "second direction". Furthermore, the direction between one end of the housing 10 of the developer cartridge 1 where the developing roller 20 is located and the other end opposite to the one end of the housing 10 will be referred to as the "third direction". The first direction and the second direction intersect with each other and are preferably perpendicular to each other. The second direction and the third direction intersect with each other and are preferably perpendicular to each other. The third direction and the first direction intersect with each other and are preferably perpendicular to each other.

[0052] 1. Overall structure of the developer cartridge

[0053] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of the developing cartridge 1. Figure 2 1 is an exploded perspective view of the developing cartridge 1. The developing cartridge 1 is used in an electrophotographic image forming apparatus such as a laser printer and an LED printer.

[0054] The developer cartridge 1 is configured to be attached to a drum cartridge. Furthermore, the drum cartridge to which the developer cartridge 1 is attached is configured to be attached to an image forming apparatus. The developer cartridge 1 is configured to supply a developer, such as toner, to the photosensitive drum of the drum cartridge. Incidentally, a single developer cartridge 1 may be attached to a single drum cartridge, or a plurality of developer cartridges 1 may be attached to a single drum cartridge.

[0055] like Figure 1 and 2 As shown, the developing cartridge 1 includes a housing 10 , a developing roller 20 , a gear cover 30 , a memory assembly 40 , and a holder cover 80 .

[0056] The housing 10 is configured to accommodate a developer therein. The housing 10 has a first outer surface 11 and a second outer surface 12 spaced apart from the first outer surface 11 in a second direction. The gear cover 30, the storage assembly 40, and the retainer cover 80 are located on the first outer surface 11. The housing 10 extends in the second direction between the first outer surface 11 and the second outer surface 12. The housing 10 has an interior serving as a storage chamber 13 for accommodating the developer.

[0057] The developing roller 20 is rotatable about a rotation axis extending in the second direction. The housing 10 has an opening 14. The opening 14 provides communication between the accommodating chamber 13 and the exterior of the housing 10. The opening 14 is located at one end of the housing 10 in the third direction. The developing roller 20 is located at the opening 14. In other words, the developing roller 20 is located at one end of the housing 10 in the third direction.

[0058] The developing roller 20 includes a developing roller body 21 and a developing roller shaft 22. The developing roller body 21 is hollow cylindrical and extends in the second direction. The developing roller body 21 is made of an elastic material such as rubber. The developing roller shaft 22 is solid cylindrical and extends in the second direction over the entire length of the developing roller body 21. The developing roller shaft 22 is made of metal or conductive resin.

[0059] Incidentally, the developing roller shaft 22 may not extend in the second direction over the entire length of the developing roller main body 21. For example, the developing roller shaft 22 may extend in the second direction from each end of the developing roller main body 21 in the second direction.

[0060] The developing roller body 21 is fixed to the developing roller shaft 22 so that the developing roller shaft 22 cannot rotate relative to the developing roller body 21. In addition, a developing roller gear (not shown) is fixed to one end of the developing roller shaft 22 in the second direction so that the developing roller gear cannot rotate relative to the one end of the developing roller shaft 22. Therefore, the rotation of the developing roller gear causes the developing roller shaft 22 and the developing roller body 21 to rotate together.

[0061] When driving force is transmitted to the developer cartridge 1, the developer in the accommodation chamber 13 of the housing 10 is thereby supplied to the outer peripheral surface of the developer roller 20 via a supply roller (not shown). At this time, the developer between the supply roller and the developer roller 20 is triboelectrically charged. In addition, a bias voltage is applied to the developer roller shaft 22 of the developer roller 20. Therefore, the developer is attracted to the outer peripheral surface of the developer roller body 21 by the electrostatic force applied between the developer roller shaft 22 and the developer.

[0062] The developer cartridge 1 also includes a layer thickness regulating blade (not shown). The layer thickness regulating blade is configured to uniformly regulate the thickness of the developer layer supplied to the peripheral surface of the developer roller body 21. The developer carried on the peripheral surface of the developer roller body 21 is then supplied to the photosensitive drum of the drum cartridge. At this time, the developer moves from the developer roller body 21 to the peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum in accordance with the electrostatic latent image formed on the peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum. As a result, the electrostatic latent image develops into a visible image on the peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum.

[0063] The gear cover 30 is located at one end of the housing 10 in the second direction. The gear cover 30 is fixed to the first outer surface 11 of the housing 10. The gear cover 30 and the housing 10 together constitute the housing of the developer cartridge 1. A plurality of gears, including the aforementioned developing gear, are located between the first outer surface 11 of the housing 10 and the gear cover 30.

[0064] 2. Memory assembly and retainer cover

[0065] Next, the memory assembly 40 and the holder cover 80 will be described. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the memory assembly 40 . Figure 4 4 is an exploded perspective view of the memory assembly 40 . Figure 5 and 6 is a cross-sectional view of the memory assembly 40 . Figure 7 This is a view of the memory module 40 and its vicinity when viewed from the other side in the first direction.

[0066] The memory assembly 40 is located at one end of the housing 10 in the second direction. Specifically, the memory assembly 40 is located at the outer surface of the gear cover 30. Figures 2 to 6 As shown, the memory assembly 40 includes a memory 41 and a holder 42 for holding the memory 41. One side of the memory 41 in the first direction is located on an outer surface of the holder 42.

[0067] The memory 41 is configured to store information regarding the developer cartridge 1. Specifically, the memory 41 stores at least one of identification information and lifespan information regarding the developer cartridge 1. The identification information may include at least one of the following: the manufacturing serial number of the developer cartridge 1; and an identification code as proof of authenticity. The lifespan information may include at least one of the following: the volume of developer; the service life of the developer roller 20; information indicating a new product; the cumulative number of rotations of the developer roller 20; the cumulative number of printed sheets; and an error history. In addition to the identification information and lifespan information, the memory 41 may also store information regarding the model that matches the developer cartridge 1.

[0068] The memory 41 has four electrical contact surfaces 411. These four electrical contact surfaces 411 are externally exposed conductive metal surfaces. The four electrical contact surfaces 411 are electrically connected to the memory. The four electrical contact surfaces 411 are aligned with one another in the second direction. Incidentally, the number of electrical contact surfaces 411 may be no more than three, or no less than five.

[0069] like Figures 2 to 6As shown, the retainer 42 includes a first end 51 and a second end 61. The first end 51 corresponds to one end of the retainer 42 in the first direction. The second end 61 corresponds to the other end of the retainer 42 in the first direction. The first end 51 and the second end 61 are spaced apart from each other in the first direction. In addition, the first end 51 is movable relative to the second end 61 in the first direction.

[0070] Specifically, the retainer 42 includes a first retainer member 50, a second retainer member 60, and a coil spring 70 located therebetween. The first retainer member 50 is made of, for example, a resin. The second retainer member 60 is made of, for example, a resin. The first retainer member 50 is movable in a first direction relative to the second retainer member 60. The first retainer member 50 includes a first end 51. The reservoir 41 is retained on an outer surface of the first end 51. The second retainer member 60 includes a second end 61.

[0071] The coil spring 70 is an elastically deformable member extending in the first direction. The coil spring 70 is located between the first end 51 and the second end 61 in the first direction. The coil spring 70 has one end connected to the first retainer member 50 in the first direction. The coil spring 70 has the other end connected to the second retainer member 60 in the first direction. Specifically, the second retainer member 60 includes Figure 5 and 6 The columnar portion 71 is shown. The columnar portion 71 protrudes from the inner surface of the second end portion 61 in the first direction toward the first end portion 51. The columnar portion 71 is inserted into the coil spring 70.

[0072] The columnar portion 71 includes a large diameter portion 711 and a small diameter portion 712. The small diameter portion 712 is closer to the first end portion 51 in the first direction than the large diameter portion 711 is to the first end portion 51. Furthermore, the diameter of the small diameter portion 712 is smaller than that of the large diameter portion 711. The other end of the columnar portion 71 in the first direction is pressed into the large diameter portion 711. Thus, the other end of the columnar portion 71 in the first direction is fixed to the second retainer member 60. Furthermore, the small diameter portion 712 prevents the coil spring 70 from tilting relative to the first direction.

[0073] The coil spring 70 is configured to be in at least the first state ( Figure 5 ) and the second state (shown in Figure 6(shown in FIG). The length of the coil spring 70 in the first direction in the first state is greater than the length in the first direction in the second state. Therefore, in the first state, the distance between the first end 51 and the second end 61 in the first direction is greater than that in the second state. In addition, the length of the coil spring 70 in the first direction in each of the first and second states is less than the natural length of the coil spring 70.

[0074] like Figure 2 and 4 As shown in Figures 6 to 6, the first holder member 50 includes a first pawl 52 and a second pawl 53. The first pawl 52 and the second pawl 53 are aligned with each other in the second direction.

[0075] The first pawl 52 includes a first arm portion 521 and a first hook portion 522. The first arm portion 521 extends in the first direction from the inner surface of the first holder member 50 toward the second end portion 61. The first hook portion 522 protrudes from the head end of the first arm portion 521 toward one side in the second direction (the side away from the gear cover 30).

[0076] The second pawl 53 is opposed to the first pawl 52 relative to the columnar portion 71. The second pawl 53 includes a second arm portion 531 and a second hook portion 532. The second arm portion 531 extends in the first direction from the inner surface of the first holder member 50, which faces the second end portion 61, toward the second end portion 61. The second hook portion 532 protrudes from the head end of the second arm portion 531 toward the other side in the second direction (toward the gear cover 30).

[0077] On the other hand, Figure 5 and 6 As shown, the second retainer member 60 includes a first corner portion 62 and a second corner portion 63. The first corner portion 62 and the second corner portion 63 are located inside the second retainer member 60. The first corner portion 62 is provided by the intersection of a plane extending in the first direction and a plane extending in the second direction. The second corner portion 63 is provided by the intersection of a plane extending in the first direction and a plane extending in the second direction. The first corner portion 62 is positioned further toward one side in the second direction than the second corner portion 63. The second corner portion 63 is opposite to the first corner portion 62 relative to the columnar portion 71.

[0078] The first hook portion 522 of the first pawl 52 is engageable with the first corner portion 62 to provide a first engagement portion therebetween. The second hook portion 532 of the second pawl 53 is engageable with the second corner portion 63 to provide a second engagement portion therebetween.

[0079] The first hook portion 522 is engaged with the first corner portion 62 in the first state of the coil spring 70. Figure 5 As shown. In the first state of the coil spring 70, the surface of the first hook portion 522 on one side in the first direction (the surface facing the memory 41) contacts the first corner portion 62. In addition, the second hook portion 532 is engaged with the second corner portion 63 in the first state of the coil spring 70. That is, as Figure 5 As shown, in the first state of the coil spring 70, the surface of the second hook portion 532 on one side in the first direction (the surface facing the reservoir 41) contacts the second corner portion 63. This engagement prevents the length of the coil spring 70 in the first direction from being longer than the length in the first state. In addition, this engagement prevents the first retainer member 50 from being detached from the second retainer member 60.

[0080] On the contrary, in the second state of the coil spring 70, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 As shown, the first hook portion 522 is away from the first corner portion 62 toward the other side in the first direction (toward the second end portion 61). Figure 6 As shown, in the second state of the coil spring 70 , the second hook portion 532 moves away from the second corner portion 63 toward the other side in the first direction (toward the second end portion 61 ).

[0081] like Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the first retainer member 50 further includes a sleeve portion 54 and a guide rib 55. The sleeve portion 54 is hollow cylindrical and extends in the first direction to surround the coil spring 70. Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the sleeve portion 54 has a cutout 541. The cutout 541 extends in the first direction to penetrate a portion of the sleeve portion in the second direction, which is one side of the portion in the second direction.

[0082] The guide rib 55 protrudes from the sleeve portion 54 in the second direction and extends in the first direction. Figure 4 As shown, the second holder member 60 has a key groove 69 extending in the first direction. The guide rib 55 is inserted into the key groove 69 so that the first holder member 50 is guided in the first direction relative to the second holder member 60. Figure 6 and 7 As shown, the guide rib 55 has a tapered surface 551. The tapered surface 551 is located at a surface of the guide rib 55, which faces the second pawl 53. The tapered surface 551 is provided by chamfering the other end portion of the guide rib 55 in the first direction.

[0083] The retainer cover 80 covers at least a portion of the retainer 42. The retainer cover 80 is fixed to the outer surface of the gear cover 30. Specifically, the retainer cover 80 is screwed to the gear cover 30. Therefore, the retainer cover 80 can move together with the housing 10 and the gear cover 30. The second retainer member 60 is retained between the outer surface of the gear cover 30 and the retainer cover 80.

[0084] Incidentally, the holder cover 80 may be screwed directly to the housing 10 instead of the gear cover 30. Furthermore, the screwing of the holder cover 80 to the gear cover 30 may be regarded as "the screwing of the holder cover 80 to the housing."

[0085] As described below, in a configuration in which the retainer cover 80 is threadedly secured to the housing 10 or the gear cover 30, only the first retainer member 50 of the retainer 42 can be removed from the retainer cover 80 without having to loosen the screws from the retainer cover 80. Since the retainer cover 80 does not require loosening the screws, the first retainer member 50 can be removed from the retainer cover 80 without compromising the positioning accuracy of the retainer cover 80 relative to the housing. Furthermore, the number of times the screws need to be tightened and loosened relative to the retainer cover 80 and the housing 10 is less than with other methods, which helps to extend the service life of the retainer cover 80 and the housing 10. This long-term use of the retainer cover 80 and the housing 10 is particularly beneficial for the recycling of the developer cartridge 1.

[0086] The second holder member 60 includes a first boss 64, a second boss 65, and a third boss 66. The first boss 64 extends in the second direction toward the holder cover 80 from a surface of the second holder member 60 that is opposite to the surface facing the gear cover 30. Figure 2 As shown, the holder cover 80 has a cover hole 81. The cover hole 81 passes through one end portion of the holder cover 80 in the second direction. The first boss 64 is inserted into the cover hole 81.

[0087] The second boss 65 and the third boss 66 extend in the second direction toward the gear cover 30 from a surface of the second holder member 60 that faces the gear cover 30. That is, the second boss 65 and the third boss 66 are positioned opposite the first boss 64 relative to the columnar portion 71. The second boss 65 and the third boss 66 are aligned with each other in the third direction.

[0088] On the other hand, the gear cover 30 has a first recess 31 and a second recess 32. The first recess 31 and the second recess 32 are recessed from the outer surface of the gear cover 30 toward the other side in the second direction (toward the second outer surface 12). The first recess 31 and the second recess 32 are aligned with each other in the third direction. The second boss 65 is inserted into the first recess 31. The third boss 66 is inserted into the second recess 32.

[0089] Incidentally, the first boss 64 , the second boss 65 , and the third boss 66 may have a solid cylindrical shape or a solid prism shape.

[0090] The dimension (inner dimension) of the cover hole 81 in the third direction is larger than the dimension (outer dimension) of the first boss 64 in the third direction. Therefore, the first boss 64 can move in the third direction within the cover hole 81. In addition, the dimension (inner dimension) of the first recess 31 in the third direction is larger than the dimension (outer dimension) of the second boss 65 in the third direction. Therefore, the second boss 65 can move in the third direction within the first recess 31. In addition, the dimension (inner dimension) of the second recess 32 in the third direction is larger than the dimension (outer dimension) of the third boss 66 in the third direction. Therefore, the third boss 66 can move in the third direction within the second recess 32.

[0091] Therefore, the second retainer member 60, together with the first boss 64, the second boss 65, and the third boss 66, can move in the third direction relative to the housing 10, the gear cover 30, and the retainer cover 80. In accordance with the movement of the second retainer member 60 in the third direction, the first retainer member 50 is moved in the third direction together with the second retainer member 60. Therefore, the electrical contact surface 411 retained by the first retainer member 50 is also allowed to move in the third direction in accordance with the movement of the first retainer member 50 in the third direction.

[0092] Similarly, the dimension (inner dimension) of the cover hole 81 in the first direction is larger than the dimension (outer dimension) of the first boss 64 in the first direction. Therefore, the first boss 64 can move in the first direction within the cover hole 81. In addition, the dimension (inner dimension) of the first recess 31 in the first direction is larger than the dimension (outer dimension) of the second boss 65 in the first direction. Therefore, the second boss 65 can move in the first direction within the first recess 31. In addition, the dimension (inner dimension) of the second recess 32 in the first direction is larger than the dimension (outer dimension) of the third boss 66 in the first direction. Therefore, the third boss 66 can move in the first direction within the second recess 32.

[0093] Therefore, the second holder member 60, together with the first boss 64, the second boss 65, and the third boss 66, is movable in the first direction relative to the housing 10, the gear cover 30, and the holder cover 80. In accordance with the movement of the second holder member 60 in the first direction, the first holder member 50 is moved in the first direction together with the second holder member 60, thereby allowing the electrical contact surface 411 held by the first holder member 50 to move in the first direction in accordance with the movement of the first holder member 50 in the first direction.

[0094] Incidentally, the retainer cover 80 may have no fewer than two cover holes 81. Furthermore, the number of bosses inserted into the cover holes 81 may be no fewer than two. Furthermore, the gear cover 30 may have one recess or no fewer than three recesses. Furthermore, the number of bosses to be inserted into the recess of the gear cover 30 may be one or no fewer than three. Furthermore, the gear cover 30 may have (one or more) holes instead of (one or more) recesses.

[0095] Furthermore, the second holder member 60 is also movable in the second direction between the gear cover 30 and the holder cover 80 .

[0096] Figure 8 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a state of the memory assembly 40 before the developing cartridge 1 is attached to the drum cartridge. Figure 8 As shown, the drum cartridge includes a first guide plate 91 and a second guide plate 92. The first guide plate 91 and the second guide plate 92 face each other and are spaced apart from each other in the first direction.

[0097] The first guide plate 91 has an electrical connector 93 made of metal, which is configured to contact the electrical contact surface 411 of the reservoir 41. The electrical connector 93 protrudes from the outer surface of the first guide plate 91 in the first direction toward the second guide plate 92. In addition, the first guide plate 91 has a guide protrusion 94 that protrudes toward the second guide plate 92. The guide protrusion 94 is positioned closer to the insertion opening of the drum cartridge in the third direction (toward the other side in the third direction) than the electrical connector 93 is to the insertion opening.

[0098] In order to attach the developer cartridge 1 to the drum cartridge, the holder 42 is inserted into the insertion opening defined between the first guide plate 91 and the second guide plate 92. At this time, the first holder member 50 is in contact with the first guide plate 91, and the second holder member 60 is in contact with the second guide plate 92. As the holder 42 moves relative to the housing 10, the holder 42 is sandwiched between the first guide plate 91 and the second guide plate 92.

[0099] Then, the first retainer member 50 is pushed toward the second guide plate 92 via the guide protrusion 94, causing the length of the coil spring 70 in the first direction to decrease from the first state to the second state. Consequently, the distance between the first end 51 and the second end 61 in the first direction is shortened. After the first retainer member 50 moves past the guide protrusion 94, the coil spring 70 expands again to increase its length in the first direction. Consequently, the electrical contact surface 411 of the reservoir 41 contacts the electrical connector 93. That is, the reservoir 41 and the electrical connector 93 are electrically connected to each other.

[0100] As described above, the retainer 42 is movable relative to the housing 10 in the first and third directions. Furthermore, the retainer 42 is capable of expanding and contracting in the first direction. This structure allows the electrical contact surface 411 to move along the guide protrusion 94 regardless of the position of the housing 10 during insertion of the developer cartridge 1 into the drum cartridge. This allows the electrical contact surface 411 to move relative to the electrical connector 93 in the first direction, thereby suppressing frictional wear of the electrical contact surface 411.

[0101] Furthermore, the drum cartridge may perform a so-called “separation operation” to temporarily separate the developing roller 20 from the photosensitive drum after the developing cartridge 1 is attached to the drum cartridge. Figure 9 1 shows the state of the developing cartridge 1 during the separation operation as viewed from one side in the second direction. Figure 9 As shown by the middle dotted arrow, at the time of the separation operation, the housing 10 of the developing cartridge 1 moves relative to the drum cartridge toward the other side in the third direction due to the driving force from the image forming apparatus.

[0102] During the separation operation, the position of the memory assembly 40 is fixed by being clamped between the electrical connector 93 and the second guide plate 92. Therefore, even if the housing 10 and the developer roller 20 move in the third direction, the position of the memory assembly 40 relative to the drum cartridge can be maintained. In this way, the contact between the electrical contact surface 411 and the electrical connector 93 can be maintained even during the separation operation, and frictional wear between the electrical contact surface 411 and the electrical connector 93 can be suppressed.

[0103] 3. Structure that is easy to recycle

[0104] In order to recycle the developer cartridge 1, the information stored in the memory 41 is rewritten, or the memory 41 itself is exchanged with a new memory. For this reason, removing the retainer cover 80 from the gear cover 30 may increase the man-hours. In addition, since the retainer cover 80 is screwed to the gear cover 30, repeated loosening and tightening of the screws may cause deformation of the threaded hole formed in the gear cover 30.

[0105] The developing cartridge 1 according to the embodiment has a structure for enabling detachment of the first holder member 50 while holding the second holder member 60 between the gear cover 30 and the holder cover 80. This structure will be described in detail below.

[0106] like Figures 5 to 7 As shown, the second retainer member 60 has a first through hole 67 and a second through hole 68. Further, the second retainer member 60 has an end 60A on one side in the first direction and another end face 60B on the other side in the first direction. The first through hole 67 and the second through hole 68 are located at the other end face 60B in the first direction of the second retainer member 60. That is, the first through hole 67 and the second through hole 68 are located in the second end 61 of the retainer 42. Therefore, as shown in FIG. Figure 7 As shown, the first through-hole 67 and the second through-hole 68 are exposed to the outside through the holder cover 80. In addition, the first through-hole 67 and the second through-hole 68 are positioned to be spaced apart from each other in the second direction.

[0107] The first through-hole 67 opens at the other end surface 60B in the first direction of the second retainer member 60 and extends in the first direction. The first through-hole 67 extends through the second retainer member 60 in the first direction from the other side in the first direction toward the first hook portion 522. Therefore, an operator can access the first engaging portion where the first hook portion 522 of the first pawl 52 engages with the first corner portion 62 through the first through-hole 67 from the outside of the retainer 42.

[0108] The second through-hole 68 is positioned further toward the other side in the second direction than the first through-hole 67. The second through-hole 68 opens at the other end surface 60B of the second retainer member 60 in the first direction and extends in the first direction. The second through-hole 68 extends through the second retainer member 60 in the first direction from the other side in the first direction toward the second hook portion 532. Therefore, an operator can access the second engagement portion where the second hook portion 532 of the second pawl 53 engages the second corner portion 63 from the outside of the retainer 42 through the second through-hole 68.

[0109] In order to recycle the developing cartridge 1, the operator inserts a tool (e.g., a screwdriver or a pair of tweezers) into the first through-hole 67 from the other side of the second holder member 60 in the first direction while the second holder member 60 is held between the gear cover 30 and the holder cover 80. Then, the operator uses the tip of the tool to push the first hook portion 522 in a direction away from the first corner portion 62. Thus, the operator achieves detachment of the first hook portion 522 from the first corner portion 62.

[0110] Furthermore, while the second holder member 60 is held between the gear cover 30 and the holder cover 80, the operator inserts a tool (e.g., a screwdriver or a pair of tweezers) into the second through-hole 68 from the other side of the second holder member 60 in the first direction. Then, the operator uses the tip of the tool to push the second hook portion 532 in a direction away from the second corner portion 63. Thus, the operator achieves detachment of the second hook portion 532 from the second corner portion 63.

[0111] After the first pawl 52 and the second pawl 53 are disengaged from the first corner portion 62 and the second corner portion 63, respectively, the operator pulls the first pawl 52 and the second pawl 53 out of the second retainer member 60 toward one side in the first direction. In this way, the operator can remove the first retainer member 50 from the second retainer member 60 while the second retainer member 60 is held between the gear cover 30 and the retainer cover 80.

[0112] Then, the operator rewrites the information stored in the memory 41 held by the removed first holder member 50, or the operator replaces the memory 41 with a new memory. Thereafter, the operator inserts the first pawl 52 and the second pawl 53 of the first holder member 50 into the second holder member 60. The operator then engages the first hook portion 522 of the first pawl 52 and the second hook portion 532 of the second pawl 53 with the first corner portion 62 and the second corner portion 63, respectively.

[0113] As described above, in the developing cartridge 1 according to the present embodiment, the second holder member 60 has the first through-hole 67 through which the first pawl 52 of the first holder member 50 is accessible from the outside. Therefore, the operator can push the first pawl 52 through the first through-hole 67 to achieve the disengagement of the first pawl 52 from the first corner portion 62. Further, the second holder member 60 has the second through-hole 68 through which the second pawl 53 of the first holder member 50 is accessible from the outside. The operator can press the second pawl 53 through the second through-hole 68 to achieve the disengagement of the second pawl 53 from the second corner portion 63. In this way, the first holder member 50 can be removed from the second holder member 60 while the second holder member 60 is retained between the gear cover 30 and the holder cover 80.

[0114] Therefore, in order to recycle the developing cartridge 1, it is not necessary to disassemble the retainer cover 80 from the gear cover 30. Therefore, the number of processes for recycling can be reduced. Further, since there is no need to repeatedly loosen and tighten the screws, deformation of the screw holes in the gear cover 30 does not occur.

[0115] Furthermore, both the first through-hole 67 and the second through-hole 68 open at the other end surface 60B in the first direction of the second holder member 60. Therefore, the operator approaches both the first engaging portion (where the first hook portion 522 of the first pawl 52 engages the first corner portion 62) and the second engaging portion (where the second hook portion 532 of the second pawl 53 engages the second corner portion 63) from the outside of the second holder member 60 from the same side in the first direction (i.e., from the other side in the first direction).

[0116] In addition, according to the present embodiment, the first hook portion 522 of the first pawl 52 and the second hook portion 532 of the second pawl 53 protrude in opposite directions. However, the operator can access both the first hook portion 522 and the second hook portion 532 in the same direction through the first through hole 67 and the second through hole 68.

[0117] In addition, as mentioned above Figures 4 to 7As described above, the sleeve portion 54 has a cutout 541 extending through a portion of the sleeve portion 54's thickness in the second direction, the portion facing the first pawl 52. To disengage the first pawl 52 from the first corner portion 62, the first pawl 52 is deformed toward the other side in the second direction (toward the gear cover 30). At this time, a portion of the first pawl 52 can be inserted into the cutout 541. In other words, the cutout 541 of the sleeve portion 54 can provide space for the first pawl 52 to deform without increasing the size of the retainer 42.

[0118] In addition, as mentioned above Figures 6 to 7 As described above, the guide rib 55 has a tapered surface 551. To disengage the second pawl 53 from the second corner portion 63, the second pawl 53 is deformed toward one side in the second direction (toward the retainer cover 80). At this time, a portion of the second pawl 53 can be positioned in the space provided by the tapered surface 551. In this way, the tapered surface 551 of the guide rib 55 can provide the space required for the deformation of the second pawl 53 without increasing the size of the retainer 42.

[0119] 4. Method of Removing the First Retainer Member

[0120] Next, a method for detaching the first holder member 50 from the second holder member 60 in the developing cartridge 1 will be described in further detail.

[0121] Figure 10 It is a perspective view for describing the detachment of the first holder member 50 from the second holder member 60 in the developing cartridge 1 . Figures 11 to 13 1 is a view for describing the detachment of the first retainer member 50 from the second retainer member 60 when viewed from one side in the second direction. Figures 10 to 13 As shown, the first jig 95 is used to detach the first holder member 50 from the second holder member 60. The first jig 95 has a substantially flat plate shape.

[0122] In order to detach the first holder member 50 from the second holder member 60, first, as shown in FIG. Figure 10 and 11 As shown, the operator places the developing cartridge 1 on the surface of the first jig 95 so that one end surface of the housing 10 in the first direction faces the surface of the first jig 95. Therefore, the electrical contact surface 411 of the reservoir 41 faces the surface of the first jig 95.

[0123] The surface of the first jig 95 has a plurality of first protrusions 951. The first protrusions 951 protrude from the surface of the first jig 95 toward the other side in the first direction. When placed on the surface of the first jig 95, portions of the housing 10 of the developer cartridge 1 come into contact with corresponding first protrusions 951. Thus, the housing 10 is fixed in place relative to the first jig 95 in a direction intersecting the first direction.

[0124] In this state, the operator inserts a tool (such as a screwdriver and tweezers) into the first through-hole 67 from the other side in the first direction. Then, the operator pushes the first hook portion 522 with the tip of the tool in a direction away from the first corner portion 62, so that the first hook portion 522 is detached from the first corner portion 62. Furthermore, the operator inserts a tool (such as a screwdriver and tweezers) into the second through-hole 68 from the other side in the first direction, and pushes the second hook portion 532 with the tip of the tool in a direction away from the second corner portion 63. As a result, the second hook portion 532 is detached from the second corner portion 63.

[0125] At this point, the first hook portion 522 is pushed toward the other side in the second direction by the tool. The second hook portion 532 is separated by the tool toward one side in the second direction. Here, the tweezers can be used to clamp the first hook portion 522 and the second hook portion 532, so that the first hook portion 522 and the second hook portion 532 are pushed toward each other by the respective tip ends of the tweezers. Thus, the operator can simultaneously detach the first hook portion 522 and the second hook portion 532 from the first corner portion 62 and the second corner portion 63, respectively.

[0126] like Figure 12 As shown, since the first pawl 52 and the second pawl 53 are disengaged from the first corner portion 62 and the second corner portion 63, the first retainer member 50 is urged to move toward one side in the first direction due to the elastic urging force of the coil spring 70. Here, since the first end portion 51 of the first retainer member 50 faces the surface of the first clamp 95 in the first direction, the first retainer member 50 moving toward the first clamp 95 contacts the surface of the first clamp 95. Therefore, the first retainer member 50 can be prevented from being ejected.

[0127] Afterwards, if Figure 13 As shown, the operator moves the assembly of the housing 10, the gear cover 30, the retainer cover 80, and the second retainer member 60 in a direction away from the surface of the first jig 95, that is, toward the other side in the first direction. As a result, the assembly of the housing 10, the gear cover 30, the retainer cover 80, and the second retainer member 60 moves away from the first retainer member 50 toward the other side in the first direction. In this way, only the first retainer member 50 that holds the reservoir 41 can be removed from the developer cartridge 1, while the second retainer member 60 is retained between the gear cover 30 and the retainer cover 80.

[0128] Here, the other end portion of the coil spring 70 in the first direction is fixed to the large-diameter portion 711 of the columnar portion 71 of the second retainer member 60. When the first retainer member 50 is removed from the second retainer member 60, the other end portion of the coil spring 70 in the first direction remains fixed to the large-diameter portion 711. Therefore, the coil spring 70 also separates toward the other side in the first direction together with the second retainer member 60. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the coil spring 70 from being removed.

[0129] 5. Method of Attaching the First Holder Member

[0130] Next, a method of attaching the first holder member 50 to the second holder member 60 in the developing cartridge 1 will be described in more detail.

[0131] Figure 14 5 is a perspective view showing a state of the developing cartridge 1 for describing the attachment of the first holder member 50 to the second holder member 60 . Figures 15 to 17 1 is a view showing a state of the developing cartridge 1 viewed from one side in the second direction, for describing that the first holder member 50 is attached to the second holder member 60. Figures 14 to 17 As shown, a second clamp 96 is used for attachment. The second clamp 96 has a generally flat plate shape.

[0132] To attach the first holder member 50 to the second holder member 60, first, as shown in FIG. Figure 14 and 15 As shown, the operator places the assembly of the housing 10, the gear cover 30, the holder cover 80, and the second holder member 60 on the surface of the second jig 96 so that the surface of the housing 10 on the other side in the first direction faces the surface of the second jig 96. Therefore, the other end surface 60B of the second holder member 60 on the other side in the first direction faces the surface of the second jig 96.

[0133] At this time, the other end surface 60B of the second holder member 60 extends perpendicular to the first direction. The other end surface 60B of the second holder member 60 contacts the surface of the second jig 96, thereby placing the second holder member 60 on the surface of the second jig 96. Therefore, the second holder member 60 is placed perpendicular to the surface of the second jig 96. In other words, the first direction becomes perpendicular to the surface of the second jig 96.

[0134] The surface of the second clamp 96 has a plurality of second protrusions 961. The second protrusions 961 protrude from the surface of the second clamp toward one side in the first direction. The portion of the housing 10 located on the surface of the second clamp 96 contacts the second protrusions 961. Thus, the housing 10 is fixed in place relative to the second clamp 96 in a direction intersecting the first direction.

[0135] The coil spring 70 is attached to the second holder member 60. Specifically, the other end portion of the coil spring 70 in the first direction is fixed to the large diameter portion 711 of the columnar portion 71. Further, as Figure 15 As shown, one end portion of the coil spring 70 in the first direction protrudes from the second holder member 60 and the holder cover 80 toward one side in the first direction.

[0136] In this state, the operator moves the first holder member 50 from one side in the first direction toward the second holder member 60, as shown in FIG. Figure 16 As shown, specifically, the operator moves the first holder member 50 toward the other side in the first direction, targeting the coil spring 70 protruding from the second holder member 60 . Then, the operator inserts the first pawl 52 and the second pawl 53 of the first holder member 50 into the second holder member 60 .

[0137] In response to being inserted into the second retaining member 60, the first arm portion 521 of the first pawl 52 is deformed toward the other side in the second direction, and the second arm portion 531 of the second pawl 53 is deformed toward one side in the second direction. When the operator further pushes the first retaining member 50 toward the other side in the first direction, the first hook portion 522 and the second hook portion 532 move through the first corner portion 62 and the second corner portion 63, respectively. Therefore, the deformed first arm portion 521 returns to its original shape to engage the first hook portion 522 with the first corner portion 62, and the deformed second arm portion 531 returns to its original shape to engage the second hook portion 532 with the second corner portion 63. Therefore, as shown in FIG. Figure 17 As shown, the attachment of the first holder member 50 and the second holder member 60 is completed.

[0138] As described above, according to the illustrated embodiment, in a state where the housing 10 and the second holder member 60 are held stationary, the operator moves the first holder member 50 so that the first holder member 50 approaches the second holder member 60. Therefore, the first holder member 50 holding the memory 41 can be easily attached to the second holder member 60.

[0139] Furthermore, by utilizing the deformation of the first arm portion 521, the operator need not do anything other than bring the first retainer member 50 closer to the second retainer member 60 to engage the first hook portion 522 with the first corner portion 62. In other words, the operator can achieve engagement of the first hook portion 522 with the first corner portion 62 without using tools. Similarly, by utilizing the deformation of the second arm portion 531, the operator need not do anything other than bring the first retainer member 50 closer to the second retainer member 60 to engage the second hook portion 532 with the second corner portion 63. Therefore, the operator can achieve engagement of the second hook portion 532 with the second corner portion 63 without using tools.

[0140] In particular, the second retainer member 60 is supported perpendicularly relative to the surface of the second clamp 96. This means that the direction in which the first retainer member 50 is pressed against the second retainer member 60 is perpendicular to the surface of the second clamp 96. This configuration makes it easier for the operator to push the first retainer member 50 into the second retainer member 60.

[0141] 6. Modifications

[0142] Various modifications are conceivable.

[0143] According to the above embodiment, the first retainer member 50 includes a first pawl 52 and a second pawl 53. However, the first retainer member may have one pawl or at least three pawls. That is, the first retainer member only needs to have at least one pawl. Furthermore, the second retainer member only needs to have at least one corner portion that can engage with at least one pawl of the first retainer member. Furthermore, the second retainer member only needs to have at least one through-hole through which the junction between the pawl and the corner portion can be accessed.

[0144] Further, according to the above-described embodiment, the reservoir 41 having the electrical contact surface 411 is fixed to the outer surface of the first end portion 51 of the holder 42. However, only the electrical contact surface configured to come into contact with the electrical connector of the drum cartridge may be fixed to the outer surface of the holder, and a portion of the reservoir other than the electrical contact surface may be arranged at a position of the developer cartridge different from that of the electrical contact surface.

[0145] Furthermore, the developer cartridge 1 according to the above embodiment is configured to be attached to a drum cartridge. However, the developer cartridge 1 may be of a type that can be directly attached to an image forming apparatus without the involvement of a drum cartridge. In the latter case, the image forming apparatus may include the first guide plate 91 and the second guide plate 92.

[0146] Further, the memory assembly may be provided in a cartridge other than the developing cartridge, like the above-described memory assembly 40 .

[0147] Furthermore, the shapes of the detailed components of the box according to the present disclosure may be different from those shown in the drawings. Furthermore, as long as no conflict occurs, parts and components appearing in the described embodiments and their modifications may be appropriately selected and / or combined.

[0148] While the present disclosure has been described in detail and with reference to specific embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications and variations can be made therein without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0149] <Notes>

[0150] The developer cartridge 1 is an example of a cartridge. The housing 10 and the gear cover 30 are examples of a housing. The memory 41 is an example of a storage medium. The electrical contact surface 411 is an example of an electrical contact surface. The retainer 42 is an example of a retainer. The first retainer member 50 is an example of a first retainer member. The second retainer member 60 is an example of a second retainer member. The first pawl 52 and the second pawl 53 are examples of at least one pawl of the first retainer member. The first corner portion 62 and the second corner portion 63 are examples of at least one corner portion of the second retainer member. One end 60A is an example of one end of the second retainer member in the first direction. The other end surface 60B is an example of the other end surface of the second retainer member in the first direction. The first through-hole 67 and the second through-hole 68 are examples of through-holes of the second retainer member. The first arm portion 521 is an example of a first arm portion of the first pawl, and the first hook portion 522 is an example of a first hook portion of the first pawl. The second arm portion 531 is an example of a second arm portion of the second pawl, and the second hook portion 532 is an example of a second hook portion of the second pawl. The coil spring 70 is an example of an elastic urging member. The columnar portion 71 is an example of a columnar portion of the second retainer member. The large diameter portion 711 is an example of a large diameter portion of a columnar portion. The small diameter portion 712 is an example of a small diameter portion of a columnar portion. The retainer cap 80 is an example of a retainer cap.

Claims

1. A box, characterized in that include: case; a storage medium comprising an electrical contact surface; as well as a retainer, the retainer being movable relative to the housing, the retainer comprising: a first holder member that holds the electrical contact surface and includes at least one pawl, the first holder member having one end surface in a first direction intersecting the electrical contact surface, and the electrical contact surface being located at the one end surface; as well as A second retainer member, the second retainer member is movable relative to the first retainer member, the second retainer member includes at least one corner portion, the at least one corner portion is engageable with the at least one pawl to provide an engagement portion between the at least one corner portion and the at least one pawl, the second retainer member has one end and another end surface in the first direction, and the second retainer member has a through hole, the through hole is open at the other end surface, and the engagement portion can be approached from the outside of the retainer through the through hole.

2. The box according to claim 1, characterized in that in, The at least one pawl is configured to be disengaged from the at least one corner portion through the through hole from the outside of the holder.

3. The box according to claim 1, characterized in that in, The at least one pawl is configured to disengage from the at least one corner portion through the through hole from the exterior of the holder to enable detachment of the first holder member from the second holder member.

4. The box according to claim 1, characterized in that in, The at least one pawl includes a first pawl and a second pawl, wherein the at least one corner portion comprises: a first corner portion engageable with the first pawl to provide a first engagement portion between the first corner portion and the first pawl; and a second corner portion engageable with the second pawl to provide a second engagement portion between the second corner portion and the second pawl, and The through hole includes: a first through hole through which the first engaging portion is accessible from outside the holder; and a second through hole through which the second engaging portion is accessible from outside the holder.

5. The box according to claim 4, characterized in that in, The first pawl includes: a first arm portion extending in the first direction; and a first hook portion protruding from a head end portion of the first arm portion in a second direction intersecting the first direction, the first hook portion being engageable with the first corner portion; and Wherein, the second pawl includes: a second arm portion extending in the first direction; and A second hook portion protrudes from a head end portion of the second arm portion in the second direction, the second hook portion being engageable with the second corner portion.

6. The box according to claim 5, characterized in that in, The first through hole extends through the second holder member in the first direction toward the first hook portion, and wherein the second through hole extends through the second holder member in the first direction toward the second hook portion.

7. The box according to claim 5, characterized in that in, The first hook portion protrudes toward one side in the second direction, and The second hook portion protrudes toward the other side in the second direction.

8. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that in, The holder further includes an elastic urging member located between the first holder member and the second holder member, the elastic urging member being configured to expand and compress in the first direction.

9. The cartridge according to claim 8, wherein in, The elastic urging member is configured to expand and compress in the first direction to provide a first state and a second state, the elastic urging member being more compressed in the first direction in the second state than in the first state, and wherein the at least one pawl engages the at least one corner portion in the first state of the elastic urging member.

10. The cartridge according to claim 8, wherein in, The elastic urging member is a spring.

11. The cartridge according to claim 10, wherein in, The spring is a coil spring having one end and the other end in the first direction, and Herein, the second holder member further includes a columnar portion, the columnar portion being inserted into the other end portion of the coil spring to fix the other end portion of the coil spring to the columnar portion.

12. The cartridge according to claim 11, wherein in, The columnar portion extends in the first direction and includes: a large diameter portion into which the other end portion of the coil spring is pressed; and A small diameter portion having a smaller diameter than the large diameter portion is positioned closer to the one end portion of the second holder member in the first direction than the large diameter portion is to the one end portion of the second holder member.

13. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that Also included is a holder cover positioned on an outer surface of the housing and movable together with the housing, and the second holder member is positioned between the outer surface of the housing and the holder cover and movably supported by the housing and the holder cover.

14. The cartridge according to claim 13, wherein in, The through hole is exposed to the outside through the holder cover.

15. The cartridge according to claim 13, wherein in, The retainer cap is threadably secured to the housing.

16. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that in, The at least one pawl is configured to be pressed in a direction away from the at least one corner portion through the through hole to be disengaged from the at least one corner portion.

17. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that in, The first holder member is movable in the first direction relative to the second holder member.

18. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that in, The first holder member holds the storage medium.

19. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that in, The storage medium is a memory.

20. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that in, The storage medium stores therein information regarding at least one of identification information of the cartridge and life information of the cartridge.

Images