Imaging system

Abstract

The present application relates to an image forming system. An attachment portion of an image forming apparatus includes a rotating member of which at least a part is exposed to the outside of the image forming apparatus when a developer container is attached, and a rotation restricting mechanism which is movable between a restricting position that restricts rotation of the rotating member and a permitting position that permits rotation of the rotating member, and which includes a restricting member that is in the restricting position when the developer container is not attached. The developer container is attached to the attachment portion so that, when a container shutter is in a closed state, a discharge portion engagement portion is engaged with a frame engagement portion, a shutter engagement portion is engaged with a rotating member engagement portion, and the restricting member is moved from the restricting position to the permitting position when the developer container is attached to the attachment portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an imaging apparatus for forming an image on a recording material. Background Technology

[0002] In imaging devices of the image electrophotographic type, it is known to use a developer container that can be detached from the imaging device to replenish the developer. Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-154300 discloses a structure in which a baffle of the developer container (which is used to seal the opening of the developer container attached to the imaging device) is opened / closed by rotating the developer container. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In a construction that uses a developer container detachable from the imaging device to replenish the imaging device with developer, the object of the present invention is to provide a technique that improves the operability of attaching the developer container to the main body of the imaging device.

[0004] To achieve this objective, the imaging system of the present invention includes:

[0005] Developer container; and

[0006] Imaging apparatus, comprising an attachment portion to which a developer container is attached, wherein

[0007] The developer container further includes:

[0008] The container part, which holds the developer;

[0009] The discharge section has a container opening through which developer contained in the container section is discharged to the outside of the developer container, and the discharge section includes a discharge section joint portion; and

[0010] A container baffle, rotatable about a rotation axis relative to a discharge portion between an open position in which the container baffle opens a container opening and a closed position in which the container baffle closes a container opening, and includes a baffle engagement portion;

[0011] The attachment further includes:

[0012] A frame having a receiving port through which the frame receives developer discharged from a container opening, wherein the frame includes a frame engagement portion configured to engage with an engagement portion of the discharge portion to restrict rotation of the discharge portion about a rotation axis.

[0013] A rotating component, rotatable relative to a frame about a rotation axis, and at least a portion of which is exposed outside the imaging apparatus when the developer container is attached to an attachment portion, wherein, when viewed along the rotation axis, the rotating component is positioned radially outside the container baffle in a virtual circle centered on the rotation axis, and the rotating component includes a confined portion and a rotating component engaged portion that engages with a baffle engagement portion, and the rotating component is configured to rotate together with the container baffle through engagement of the rotating component engaged portion with the baffle engagement portion; and

[0014] A rotation limiting mechanism includes a limiting member having a limiting portion and being movable between a limiting position and a permissible position. In the limiting position, the limiting portion restricts rotation of the rotating member by engaging with the limited portion of the rotating member. In the permissible position, the limiting portion allows rotation of the rotating member. The limiting member is in the limiting position when the developer container is not attached to an attachment portion.

[0015] With the container baffle in the closed position, such that the discharge portion engages with the frame portion and the baffle engagement portion engages with the rotating component portion, the developer container is attached to the attachment portion, wherein...

[0016] The limiting component is configured to move from a limiting position to an allowable position via attachment of the developer container to the attachment portion.

[0017] According to the present invention, the operability of attaching the developer container to the main body of the imaging device can be improved.

[0018] Further features of the invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of the imaging device;

[0020] Figure 2 It is a diagram used to describe the internal structure of an imaging device;

[0021] Figure 3 It is a perspective view used to describe the layout of a circuit board;

[0022] Figure 4 It is a front perspective view used to describe the layout of the circuit board;

[0023] Figure 5 It is a perspective view of the circuit board and its surrounding components;

[0024] Figure 6 This is a side view of the circuit board and its surrounding components;

[0025] Figure 7 This is a top view of the circuit board and its peripheral components;

[0026] Figure 8 It is a perspective view used to describe the structure of the scanner unit and drive motor;

[0027] Figure 9 This is a rear view of the circuit board in a direction perpendicular to the board surface;

[0028] Figure 10 It is a diagram used to describe the electronic components on a circuit board;

[0029] Figure 11 It is a block diagram used to describe the function of a circuit board;

[0030] Figure 12 This is a side view used to describe the positions of the supplementary parts and the scanner unit;

[0031] Figure 13 This is a top view used to describe the positions of the supplementary parts and the scanner unit;

[0032] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of the developer container;

[0033] Figures 15A to 15C This is an enlarged perspective view of the supplementary section;

[0034] Figures 16A to 16D This is a sectional top view of the supplementary section;

[0035] Figures 17A to 17C This is an exploded perspective view of the supplement pack;

[0036] Figure 18A and 18B It is a diagram used to describe the construction of the supplementary package;

[0037] Figure 19A and 19B It is an exploded perspective view of the attached portion;

[0038] Figures 20A to 20C It is a perspective view of the exploded parts;

[0039] Figure 21A and 21B This is a cross-sectional view of the supplementary package and attachment parts;

[0040] Figure 22 It is a perspective view used to describe the rotation trajectory of the installed parts;

[0041] Figure 23 It is a top view used to describe the rotation trajectory of the installed parts;

[0042] Figure 24This is a perspective view of the rotation limiting mechanism;

[0043] Figure 25A and 25B This is a cross-sectional view of the lever locking mechanism when it is locked.

[0044] Figure 26A and 26B This is a cross-sectional view of the lever locking mechanism when the lock is released;

[0045] Figures 27A to 27E It is a cross-sectional view used to describe the sequence flow of the lever locking mechanism;

[0046] Figure 28A and 28B It is a perspective view depicting the state of the discharge tray when it is opened / closed;

[0047] Figure 29A and 29B It is a perspective view depicting the state when the supplement pack is attached;

[0048] Figure 30 It is a top view depicting the state of the supplementary pack when it is attached; and

[0049] Figure 31A and 31B This is a perspective view of the developer container and replenishment section, where the rod locking positions are different. Detailed Implementation

[0050] Hereinafter, embodiments (examples) of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative arrangements of the constituent elements described in the various embodiments may be appropriately changed depending on the construction of the device to which the present invention is applied, various conditions, etc. Therefore, the dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative arrangements of the constituent elements described in the various embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention to the following embodiments.

[0051] Example 1

[0052] Overall structure of the imaging device

[0053] The overall structure of the imaging apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. The imaging apparatus 1 of this embodiment is a monochrome laser beam printer that uses electrophotographic processing and forms an image on a recording material P using a developer (toner) based on image information sent from an external device such as a personal computer. Examples of recording materials P are: recording paper, label paper, OHP sheet, and cloth.

[0054] In the following description, when the imaging device 1 is mounted on a horizontal surface, the height direction (vertical direction) of the imaging device 1 is designated as the Z direction, and the direction intersecting the Z direction and parallel to the rotation axis direction (main scanning direction) of the photosensitive drum 11 (described later) is designated as the X direction. The direction intersecting the X and Z directions is designated as the Y direction. The X, Y, and Z directions preferably intersect each other orthogonally. For convenience, the positive side of the X direction is referred to as the "right side", the negative side of the X direction is referred to as the "left side", the positive side of the Y direction is referred to as the "front side" or "front surface side", the negative side of the Y direction is referred to as the "rear side" or "rear surface side", the positive side of the Z direction is referred to as the "upper side", and the negative side of the Z direction is referred to as the "lower side".

[0055] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of imaging device 1. Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the internal structure of the imaging device 1 when viewed in the X-direction (the direction of the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 11). Figure 2 Only components related to the imaging process are shown selectively. Figure 1 In this imaging device 1, there is a feed cassette 4 for storing recording material P and a discharge tray 14 on which the discharged recording material P is loaded. The feed cassette 4 can be pulled out in the Y direction, allowing the user to replenish the recording material P. An image is formed on the recording material P fed from the feed cassette 4, and the recording material P is discharged from the discharge port 15 in the discharge direction (Y direction). Figure 1 As shown), the recording material P is loaded onto the discharge tray 14. A front cover 70 is provided on a portion of the downstream end surface (part of the front surface) of the imaging device 1 in the discharge direction to cover the circuit board 100 mentioned later. An outer cover 71 is provided on the front surface (excluding the area where the front cover 70 is provided), side surface, and top surface of the imaging device 1. The front cover 70, outer cover 71, and the discharge tray 14 constitute the housing 720 of the imaging device 1. The housing 720 is a component that covers the entire imaging device 1, including the scanner unit 50 and other processing components mentioned later. The discharge port 15 is an opening formed in a portion of the housing 720 through which the recording material P is discharged from the imaging device 1.

[0056] Reference Figure 2The process of the imaging operation performed on the recording material P is described. When image information is sent to the imaging device 1, the photosensitive drum 11 is driven to rotate in the direction of arrow R at a predetermined peripheral speed (processing speed). The scanner unit 50 emits a laser beam onto the photosensitive drum 11 according to the input image information. The scanner unit 50 is a unit consisting of: a laser oscillator that outputs the laser beam; a multifaceted mirror and lens through which the laser beam is emitted onto the photosensitive drum 11; a scanner motor for rotating the multifaceted mirror; and a frame that supports these components. The photosensitive drum 11 is pre-charged by the charging roller 17, and an electrostatic latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum 11 (image carrying component) by the irradiation of the laser beam. The toner (developer) contained in the container portion 18 is brought onto the photosensitive drum 11 (photosensitive component) by the developing roller 12 (developer carrying component), whereby the electrostatic latent image is developed, and a toner image (developer image) is formed on the photosensitive drum 11. The attachment portion 200, mentioned later, for forming a replenishment port to replenish the toner from the outside, is attached to the container portion 18.

[0057] In parallel with the imaging process described above, the recording material P is fed from the feed cassette 4. A pickup roller 3, a feed roller 5a, and a pair of transport rollers 5c are arranged along the transport path of the imaging device 1. The pickup roller 3 contacts the uppermost recording material P among the recording materials P contained in the feed cassette 4, and feeds the recording material P by rotating the roller. The feed roller 5a and the separation roller 5b pressed against it form a separation clamping section. When multiple sheets of recording material P are fed to the separation clamping section due to the friction between the recording materials P, the feed roller 5a and the separation roller 5b separate the multiple sheets of recording material P, thereby feeding only the uppermost recording material P downstream.

[0058] Recording material P fed from feed cassette 4 is conveyed toward transfer roller 7 via conveyor roller pair 5c. A toner image formed on photosensitive drum 11 is transferred onto recording material P by a transfer bias applied to transfer roller 7. Recording material P with the toner image transferred via transfer roller 7 is heated and pressurized by fixing device 9, thereby fixing the toner image onto recording material P. Fixing device 9 consists of heating roller 9a including fixing heater 9c and pressure roller 9b biased toward heating roller 9a. Recording material P with the fixed toner image is then discharged to discharge tray 14 via discharge roller pair 10. If images are formed on both sides of recording material P, discharge roller pair 10 causes recording material P (with an image formed on its first side) to return to switching (changing its conveying direction) to guide recording material P to double-sided conveying path 16. Recording material P guided to double-sided conveying path 16 is conveyed back to transfer roller 7 via double-sided conveyor roller pair 5d. After an image is formed on the second surface of the recording material P by the transfer roller 7, the recording material P is discharged to the outside by the discharge roller pair 10. The toner remaining on the photosensitive drum 11 after the toner image is transferred onto the recording material P is cleaned by the cleaning unit 13.

[0059] like Figure 2 As shown, the imaging device 1 includes a circuit board 100. The circuit board 100 comprises a wiring board 101 formed of an insulating material, and electronic components 111 and 121 soldered to the wiring board 101. The electronic components 111 and 121 are electrically connected by conductor lines formed on and within the wiring board 101. The circuit board 100 has the function of converting alternating current supplied from outside the imaging device 1 into direct current and converting the input voltage to obtain a predetermined voltage value required for imaging processing. Figure 2 As shown, the circuit board 100 is configured such that the surface of the wiring board 101 on which the electronic components 111 and 121 are mounted intersects the discharge direction. Furthermore, the wiring board 101 is disposed between the front cover 70 and the scanner unit 50 in the discharge direction. The electronic components 111 and 121 are disposed on the wiring board 101 on the side facing the scanner unit 50.

[0060] Circuit board layout

[0061] Reference Figures 3 to 8 The arrangement of the circuit board 100 according to this embodiment is described in detail. Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the imaging device 1 used to describe the arrangement of the circuit board 100, and... Figure 1 different, Figure 3 Illustrations of the front cover 70 and the outer cover 71 are omitted. Figure 3The image shows a new attachment portion 200 for replenishing toner. In the imaging apparatus 1 of this embodiment, the user or maintenance personnel can replenish the developer through the attachment portion 200, which is connected to the container portion 18 inside the imaging apparatus 1. The attachment portion 200 will be described in detail below.

[0062] like Figure 3 As shown, the circuit board 100 is disposed on the front surface side, and the scanner unit 50 and the drive motor 60 (drive source) are disposed on the rear side (negative side in the Y direction) of the circuit board 100. Figure 3 In the diagram, the scanner unit 50 and the drive motor 60 are located in a position that is not visible, and are therefore represented by dashed lines. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the imaging device 1 includes a right side plate frame 72, a left side plate frame 73, and a base frame 74. The circuit board 100 is supported by these frame components and is mounted in the imaging device 1 such that the surface of the circuit board 100 is substantially parallel to the XZ plane. Bent portions 72a and 73a are formed in each side edge portion of the right side plate frame 72 and the left side plate frame 73, respectively. The bent portion 72a bends towards the positive side in the X direction, substantially parallel to the XZ plane, while the bent portion 73a bends towards the negative side in the X direction, substantially parallel to the XZ plane. By bending the two side plate frames outwards from the imaging device 1 in this manner, electronic components can be mounted on a larger area of ​​the wiring board 101.

[0063] Figure 4 This is a front perspective view of the imaging device 1 used to describe the arrangement of the circuit board 100. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the distance L1 in the X direction between the inner surface of the right side plate frame 72 and the inner surface of the left side plate frame 73 is shorter than the length L2 of the circuit board 100 in the X direction. The wiring board 101 is positioned on the front side (front surface side) of the bent portions 72a and 73a in the Y direction. The circuit board 100 and the bent portions 72a and 73a overlap in the front view. Figure 4 In the diagram, a portion of the drive motor 60, the curved portions 72a and 73a, and the scanner unit 50 are located in a position that cannot be seen, and are therefore indicated by dashed lines.

[0064] As described above, the circuit board 100 is disposed on the front surface side and formed over the entire area from the right side plate frame 72 to the left side plate frame 73. Therefore, in the imaging apparatus 1, there is no need for wiring or similar components that span across the right side plate frame 72 and the left side plate frame 73 in the X direction. Consequently, the length of the wiring can be shorter than in the prior art, and the cost can be reduced accordingly. Furthermore, the area where the wiring is laid is also smaller than in the prior art, which means that electrical noise can also be reduced.

[0065] Positional relationship between electronic components and scanner unit

[0066] Reference Figures 5 to 7 The positional relationship between electronic component 111 and scanner unit 50 is described in detail. Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the circuit board 100 as seen from the rear of the main body. Electronic components 111 (which are larger than other components in the Y direction) are located at the lower part of the wiring board 101 and are mounted to be accommodated below the scanner unit 50 for efficient space utilization. A power input section 115 is located at the edge of the wiring board 101. The power input section 115 is connected to the inlet 116 mentioned later for supplying power from a commercial power source.

[0067] Figure 6 This is a diagram depicting the circuit board 100 as viewed from the left side surface of the main body. A portion of the scanner unit 50 is located overlapping with the attachment portion 200 and is not visible, therefore it is indicated by a dashed line. The scanner unit 50 is positioned at the optimal location for emitting a laser beam (indicated by a dashed line) toward the photosensitive drum 11. In the area where the scanner unit 50 and the wiring board 101 are closest to each other in the Y direction, no components, such as electronic components 111, are provided that clearly protrude from the board surface. In other words, the scanner unit 50 and the electronic components 111 are offset from each other in the Z direction so as not to interfere with each other.

[0068] Figure 7 This is an enlarged top view of the circuit board 100 as seen from the top surface of the main body. (Example) Figure 7 As shown, the scanner unit 50 and the electronic component 111 are positioned at a location where they partially overlap. As described above, the scanner unit 50 is located above the electronic component 111, meaning that the electronic component 111 is not visible in this direction. Therefore, in Figure 7 In order to clearly show the positional relationship between the two components, the scanner unit 50 is indicated by a dashed line, as if the scanner unit 50 were transparent. By arranging the electronic component 111 in this position, the distance between the circuit board 100 and the scanner unit 50 in the Y direction (front-back direction) can be shortened, and the size of the imaging device 1 can be reduced.

[0069] Positional relationship between electronic components and drive motor

[0070] Reference Figures 5 to 7 The positional relationship between the electronic component 111 and the drive motor 60 is described in detail. The drive motor 60 has the function of rotating the various conveying components (e.g., pickup roller 3, feed roller 5a, conveyor roller pair 5c) and the photosensitive drum 11, and feeding and conveying the recording material P.

[0071] like Figure 5As shown, the drive motor 60 protrudes to the negative side in the X direction, and the wiring board 101 is positioned on the front side of the main body relative to the drive motor 60. The electronic component 111 is mounted at a distance from the drive motor 60 to avoid interfering with it. Figure 6 As shown, when viewed from the left side surface of the main body, the drive motor 60 and the electronic component 111 are positioned where they partially overlap each other. Furthermore, as... Figure 7 As shown, when viewed from the top surface of the main body, the drive motor 60 and the electronic components 111 are positioned offset from each other in the X direction to avoid mutual interference. By arranging the electronic components 111 at these locations, the distance between the circuit board 100 and the drive motor 60 in the Y direction (front-back direction) can be shortened, and the size of the imaging device 1 can be reduced.

[0072] Construction for mounting to the main body

[0073] Reference Figure 8 The structure for mounting the scanner unit 50 and the drive motor 60 to the main body is described in detail. Figure 8 yes Figure 5 The perspective view shows the addition of the right side panel frame 72 and the scanner holding member 40. The left side panel frame 73 and the base frame 74 are not shown here. The scanner unit 50 is held by the scanner holding member 40. The scanner holding member 40 is fixed to the right side panel frame 72 and the left side panel frame 73. Figure 8 (Not shown in the image), and is positioned below the attachment portion 200 to bridge the two frames. On the other hand, the drive motor 60 is mounted on the right side plate frame 72, and a gear connected to the drive motor 60 is located on the positive side (right side) of the right side plate frame 72 in the X direction. The driving force of the drive motor 60 is transmitted to the feed roller 5a and the photosensitive drum 11 through this gear.

[0074] Circuit board construction

[0075] Reference Figure 9 and Figure 10 Describe the structure of circuit board 100. Figure 9 This is a rear view of the circuit board 100, viewed from the rear of the main body. Figure 9 The image shows not only the circuit board 100, but also the scanner unit 50, the drive motor 60, and the attachment portion 200. Figure 10Only circuit board 100 is shown in the diagram. Circuit board 100 comprises a low-voltage power supply section 110 that receives AC power from an external commercial power supply and converts the AC power to DC power, and a high-voltage power supply section 120 that supplies the high voltage required for imaging to each processing component. In this embodiment, the low-voltage power supply section 110 and the high-voltage power supply section 120 are mounted on the same circuit board. The low-voltage power supply section 110 includes a low-voltage power transformer 112, a heat sink 113, and an electrolytic capacitor 114, serving as a larger electronic component 111 in the Y direction. The low-voltage power supply section 110 also includes a power input section 115. The high-voltage power supply section 120 includes a charging transformer 122, a developing transformer 123, and a transfer transformer 124, serving as a larger electronic component 121 in the Y direction. Figure 9 As shown, the larger electronic components 111 and 121 in the Y direction are positioned at a certain distance from the scanner unit 50, the drive motor 60, and the attachment portion 200.

[0076] Reference Figure 10 Other components disposed on the circuit board 100 are described. Multiple connectors 220, 221, 222, and 223 are disposed on the upper and lower edges of the circuit board 100, and the circuit board 100 is connected to various components via wiring harnesses. Connector 220 is connected to the drive motor 60 and, for example, a sensor (not shown) for detecting recording material P in transit. Connector 221 is connected to the laser output section (not shown) of the scanner unit 50 and the scanner motor (not shown) that rotates the multifaceted mirror. Connector 222 is connected to a control panel (not shown) and a video controller 140, which includes a power switch, execution keys, etc., operated by the user. Connector 223 is connected to the fixing heater 9c. On the shaded portion 224 facing the drive motor 60, a small electronic component in the Y direction of the high-voltage power supply section 120 is mounted. Specifically, resistors, jumpers, etc., are disposed. The resistor disposed at this location functions to adjust various bias voltages output from the charging transformer 122, the developing transformer 123, and the transfer transformer 124.

[0077] Reference Figure 9 and Figure 11 Describe the functions of the low-voltage power supply section 110 and the high-voltage power supply section 120. Figure 11This is a block diagram illustrating the function of circuit board 100. First, the low-voltage power supply section 110 receives power from an external power source via a power input section 115 mounted on the edge of the board, and converts the AC voltage to a stable DC voltage via a rectifier / smoothing circuit including an electrolytic capacitor 114. Then, the low-voltage power supply section 110 uses switching elements such as transistors to convert the DC voltage to a high-frequency AC voltage, and inputs the high-frequency AC voltage to a low-voltage power transformer 112. The low-voltage power transformer 112 converts the high-frequency AC voltage (input voltage) to an AC voltage (output voltage) with the desired voltage value. The low-voltage power supply section 110 converts the AC voltage back to DC voltage and outputs the resulting DC voltage to the high-voltage power supply section 120. In the low-voltage power supply section 110, energy loss from the various circuit elements generates heat; therefore, a heat sink 113 made of aluminum or iron is provided to dissipate this heat.

[0078] The high-voltage power supply section 120 converts the voltage (e.g., 24V) supplied from the low-voltage power supply section 110 into the high voltage required for imaging processes including charging, developing, and transferring. The charging transformer 122 converts the voltage supplied from the low-voltage power supply section 110 into a voltage for charging, and then supplies the converted voltage to the charging roller 17. The developing transformer 123 converts the voltage supplied from the low-voltage power supply section 110 into a voltage for developing, and then supplies the converted voltage to the developing roller 12. The transferring transformer 124 converts the voltage supplied from the low-voltage power supply section 110 into a voltage for transferring, and then supplies the converted voltage to the transferring roller 7.

[0079] The low-voltage power supply section 110 supplies voltage (e.g., 3.3V or 5V) not only to the high-voltage power supply section 120, but also to the scanner unit 50, drive motor 60, engine controller 130, and video controller 140. Here, the engine controller 130 has the function of overall control of various processing components. The engine controller 130 includes a CPU (not shown), RAM (not shown) for calculating and temporarily storing the data required to control the imaging device 1, and ROM (not shown) for storing programs and various data for controlling the imaging device 1. The video controller 140 has the function of receiving print data through communication with an external device such as a personal computer and notifying the engine controller 130 of the results of analyzing the print data. The engine controller 130 and the video controller 140 can be mounted on a different board than the circuit board 100, or they can be mounted on the same board.

[0080] The AC power received by the power input section 115 from the commercial power supply is supplied not only to the low-voltage power supply section 110, but also to the given heater 9c. Figure 10In the circuit board 100 shown, a triac (not shown) is provided between the power input section 115 and the connector 223. The temperature of the fuser heater 9c can be adjusted by switching the triac on / off to change the sine wave. The drive of the rollers, etc., in the fuser unit 9 is performed by the drive motor 60.

[0081] Arrangement and construction of supplementary units

[0082] Reference Figures 12 to 22 The attachment portion 200 is described. As described above, in the imaging apparatus 1, the attachment portion 200, which replenishes toner from an external source when the remaining amount of toner in the container portion 18 is low, is configured such that the container portion 18 does not need to be removed from the housing 720. The replenishment pack 210 can be detached / attached to the attachment portion 200, which serves as the toner container (developer container).

[0083] Figure 12 This is a left-side view of the imaging device 1, viewed along the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 11. Figure 12 In the middle, the outer cover 71 and the left side panel frame 73 have been removed. The attachment portion 200 consists of the following parts: in which the supplementary package 210 is installed ( Figure 12 The mounting portion 201 (not shown) includes a toner receiving portion 202, which is a cylindrical frame; and a replenishment path portion 203, which connects the container portion 18 to the toner receiving portion 202. The mounting portion 201 includes a replenishment port 204 (an opening for replenishing toner) and is configured such that toner passing through the replenishment port 204 moves sequentially between the toner receiving portion 202 and the replenishment path portion 203, and is ultimately supplied to the container portion 18. A portion of the scanner unit 50 is located at a position overlapping with the attachment portion 200 and is not visible; therefore, this area is... Figure 12 The toner receiving portion 202 and the supplementary path portion 203 of the attachment portion 200 overlap with the scanner unit 50. In other words, the toner receiving portion 202 and the supplementary path portion 203 are located at a position overlapping with the scanner unit 50 in the Z direction. Here, if we assume that R1 is the area where the supplementary port 204 is set in the Y direction (horizontal direction) and R2 is the area where the scanner unit 50 is set in the Y direction, then R1 and R2 overlap.

[0084] It is also assumed that S is a virtual plane located at the uppermost edge 18b of the frame 18a passing through the container portion 18 and parallel to the horizontal plane. The virtual plane S in... Figure 12The above is indicated by dashed lines. If the virtual plane S is the reference, a portion of the attachment portion 200 is located on the positive side (top side) in the Z direction. In other words, a portion of the attachment portion 200 protrudes upward from the upper edge 18b of the container portion 18. Specifically, a portion of the attachment portion 200 includes the entire mounting portion 201, a portion of the toner receiving portion 202, and a portion of the supplementary path portion 203. The portion of the toner receiving portion 202 that protrudes upward from the virtual plane S and the portion of the supplementary path portion 203 that protrudes upward from the virtual plane S overlap with the scanner unit 50.

[0085] like Figure 12 As shown, a portion of the container portion 18 overlaps with the drum frame 11a supporting the photosensitive drum 11 and is not visible; therefore, this area is indicated by a dashed line. The container portion 18 supports the developing roller 12 carrying the developer, which is also in a concealed position. Figure 12 The middle part is represented by a dashed line.

[0086] Figure 13 This is a top view of the imaging device 1 with the outer cover 71 removed. As described above, the mounting portion 201 includes a replenishment port 204. The mounting portion 201 also includes an annular portion 201a configured to surround the replenishment port 204, and a rod portion 201b connected to the annular portion 201a. Figure 13 As shown, the width of the attachment portion 200 in the X direction is shorter than the width of the container portion 18 in the X direction.

[0087] Here, due to the function of the multifaceted mirror and lens (both not shown), the laser beam emitted from the scanner unit 50 onto the photosensitive drum 11 diffuses in a trapezoidal shape, such as... Figure 13 As shown. Therefore, the width of the scanner unit 50 in the X direction is shorter than the width of the photosensitive drum 11. Therefore, a space is created between the left end of the scanner unit 50 and the left side panel frame 73, in which, in this embodiment, the attachment portion 200 is arranged. In other words, as Figure 13 As shown, the attachment portion 200 is disposed between the scanner unit 50 and the left side panel frame 73 in the X direction. Furthermore, the supplementary port 204 and the scanner unit 50 are disposed side-by-side in the region where the container portion 18 is disposed in the X direction. If the attachment portion 200 is disposed in this position, the size of the imaging device 1 is less affected by the arrangement of the attachment portion 200.

[0088] The attachment portion 200 is positioned on the opposite side of the drive motor 60 relative to the scanner unit 50. The drive motor 60 used in this embodiment is relatively small, therefore... Figure 12As shown, the attachment portion 200 and the drive motor 60 do not overlap in the Z direction. Therefore, it is also possible to place the attachment portion 200 and the drive motor 60 on the same side relative to the scanner unit 50. However, if a larger drive motor 60 is used, the attachment portion 200 must be arranged in the upper position, which would increase the size of the imaging device 1. If the configuration described in this embodiment, where the attachment portion 200 is placed on the opposite side of the drive motor 60, is used, a larger drive motor 60 can be used without increasing the size of the imaging device 1. In other words, design flexibility can be improved.

[0089] Supplementary construction description

[0090] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of the developer container 230, which consists of the container portion 18 and the attachment portion 200. Figure 14 The illustration of some components related to the attachment portion 200 is omitted. A side surface opening 205, connected to the replenishment path portion 203, is formed on the inner wall of the cylindrical toner receiving portion 202. However, this side surface opening 205 is covered by the main body baffle portion 206 and is therefore shown as a dashed line. Toner is guided from the toner receiving portion 202 to the replenishment path portion 203 through this side surface opening 205, and then contained in the container portion 18 via the replenishment path portion 203. A main body baffle portion drive transmission rib 206a is provided on the main body baffle portion 206, which receives the driving force from the replenishment package 210 and rotates the main body baffle portion 206 (details described later).

[0091] Figures 15A to 15C This is an enlarged perspective view of the attached portion, 200. Figures 16A to 16D This is an enlarged sectional view of the mounting portion 201 as seen from the top surface. Figure 15A In the diagram, the side surface opening 205 formed in the toner receiving portion 202 is covered by the main body baffle portion 206 and is therefore not visible, and is indicated by dashed lines. The main body baffle portion 206 is a cylindrical component concentric with the toner receiving portion 202 and is located inside the toner receiving portion 202. An opening 207 for the passage of toner is also formed in the main body baffle portion 206. Figure 15A In the middle, the side surface openings 205 and 207 are positioned offset from each other, so the side surface opening 205 is closed. The mounting portion 201 is provided concentrically with the toner receiving portion 202 in the top surface portion 240 (not shown), and is restricted in the rotational direction by the rod locking mechanism mentioned later when the refill pack 210 is not attached. This rod locking mechanism prevents a phase change of the mounting portion drive transmission rib 201d and the main body baffle portion drive transmission rib 206a before the refill pack 210 is attached, thereby ensuring that the refill pack 210 is attached reliably.

[0092] like Figure 15B and 16C As shown, when the supplementary pack 210 is attached, the rod locking release rib 214a, which is a release portion provided in the pack baffle portion 214 (baffle member), is inserted into the locking release recess 201f. Figure 15B and 16C Only the baffle portion 214 of the refill pack 210 is shown. The rod locking release rib 214a is a protrusion extending from the outer surface of the baffle portion 214 along the direction of rotation axis in a direction intersecting the rotation axis. When the refill pack 210 is attached to the attachment portion 200, the rod locking release rib 214a moves the rod locking release link 229, thereby releasing the rod locking mechanism and allowing the rod portion 201b to be rotated. The rod locking mechanism will be described in detail later. The engagement state between the guided portion 232 (discharge portion engagement portion) of the insertion portion 212 and the guide portion 247 (248) (frame engagement portion) of the toner receiving portion 202 is as follows. Figure 16B As shown. This engagement structure restricts the relative movement between the insertion portion 212 and the toner receiving portion 202 in the circumferential direction centered on the rotation axis of the baffle portion 214. Details will be described later.

[0093] The mounting portion drive transmission rib 201d engages with the main body baffle portion drive transmission rib 206a via a pair of drive transmission surfaces 214b of the baffle portion 214 of the supplementary package 210. The mounting portion drive transmission rib 201d is a protrusion (rotating component protrusion) extending from the inner circumferential surface of a hole formed in the generally annular mounting portion 201, centered on the axis of rotation R, toward the axis of rotation RA. The mounting portion drive transmission rib 201d includes a first engagement portion 201d1 and a second engagement portion 201d2, which are portions forming the first protrusion side surfaces 201ds1 and 201ds2, and are disposed circumferentially across the protrusion front end surface 201dt. The main body baffle portion drive transmission rib 206a is a protrusion (baffle protrusion) extending from the inner circumferential surface of a hole formed in the generally cylindrical main body baffle portion 206, centered on the axis of rotation R, toward the axis of rotation RA. The main body baffle portion drive transmission rib 206a includes a first baffle protrusion side surface 206a1 and a second baffle protrusion side surface 206a2, which are disposed in the circumferential direction centered on the rotation axis RA, separated by the front end surface 206at of the baffle protrusion. The main body baffle portion 206 can be driven by the user holding the rod portion 201b and moving the rod portion 201b from... Figure 15B and 16C The state in the middle moves to Figure 15C and 16DThe state is such that it rotates within the toner receiving section 202. Figure 15C and 16D In the middle, the side surface openings 205 and 207 are in an overlapping position, so the side surface opening 205 is opened and the toner can be added through the side surface opening 205.

[0094] When forming an image on the recording material P, the side surface opening 205 must be closed to prevent the toner stirred by the stirring member (not shown) in the container portion 18 from leaking through the side surface opening 205. Therefore, during image formation, the rod portion 201b is moved to... Figure 15A and 16A The position shown is referred to as the initial position or operating position of the rod portion 201b. On the other hand, when replenishing the toner from the refill pack 210 (described later) into the container portion 18, the side surface opening 205 must be opened. Therefore, when replenishing the toner, the rod portion 201b is moved to... Figure 15C and 16D The location shown is referred to as the supplementary location of rod section 201b.

[0095] Preferably, the size of the lever portion 201b is as large as possible so that the user can easily grip it. The construction of the operating part for the user to open / close the baffle is not limited to the construction using the lever portion 201b. Various constructions can be used as long as at least a portion of the mounting part 201 is exposed in the state of the supplementary package 210 so that the user can operate that part. Further, the circuit board 100 is disposed on the front side (positive side in the Y direction) of the attachment portion 200, and in this embodiment, the attachment portion 200 and the circuit board 100 are disposed close to each other to reduce the size of the imaging device 1 in the Y direction. Therefore, as... Figure 22 and 23 As shown, a notch 101a is formed on the upper edge of the wiring board 101 to prevent contact with the rod portion 201b. Figure 22 This is a perspective view taken from the rear of the main body. Figure 23 It's a top view. Figure 23 In the diagram, the position corresponding to the notch 101a is indicated by a dashed line. The rod portion 201b overlaps with the wiring board 101 in its initial position. (See diagram for details.) Figure 22 and 23 As shown, the notch 101a is formed at a position corresponding to the rotation trajectory of the rod portion 201b. In this embodiment, the notch 101a is formed on the wiring board 101, but interference with the rod portion 201b can be prevented by forming through holes or grooves in the wiring board 101.

[0096] Reference Figure 19A , 19B20A to 20C, 21A and 21B describe in detail the construction of the imaging apparatus or imaging system according to this embodiment that receives the replenishment of the developer.

[0097] Figure 19A and 19B It is an exploded perspective view of the attached portion 200. Figure 19A and 19B These are perspective views viewed from different directions. Figures 20A to 20C This is a perspective view of the attached portion 200, and... Figures 15A to 15C The difference is that the illustrations of the supplementary pack 210, the lever locking component 227, and the lever locking part pressing spring 228 are omitted. Figure 20A and 20C This indicates the state in which the mounting portion 201 (open / close component) is in the closed position when viewed from different perspectives. When the mounting portion 201 is viewed along the rotation axis with the supplementary package 210 attached, the mounting portion 201 is positioned outside the package baffle portion 214 in the radial direction r of the virtual circle VC centered on the rotation axis RA. Figure 20B This indicates that the mounting portion 201 is in the open functional position. The main body baffle portion 206 (device baffle) is disposed inside the toner receiving portion 202 (developer receiving portion). The main body baffle portion 206 includes an opening 207 (device opening) to form a communication hole for replenishing toner, and a sealing member 243 is attached to the inner peripheral surface of the main body baffle portion 206 to surround the outer periphery of the opening 207. When the main body baffle portion 206 is in the open position, the sealing member 243 contacts the outer surface of the insertion portion 212 (particularly around the opening 213) and seals the communication hole 245 mentioned later. Inside the communication hole 245, guide portions 247 and 248 (frame engaged portions) are provided for guiding the guided portion 232 (discharge portion engagement portion) of the insertion portion 212 of the replenishment package 210. Furthermore, the main body baffle portion drive transmission rib 206a of the guide positioning portion 217 (the guided portion of the baffle portion 214 (cylindrical container baffle)) is also provided on the inner circumferential surface of the main body baffle portion 206. The mounting portion 201 (open / close member) is rotatably mounted on the opening side of the recessed insertion portion structure of the attachment portion 200 (where the protruding insertion portion 212 of the supplementary package 210 is inserted). The mounting portion drive transmission rib 201d, protruding inward from the inner circumferential surface side of the mounting portion 201, also serves as a guide portion for the positioning portion 217 of the baffle portion 214. When the baffle portion 214 is in the closed position, the guided portion 232 can engage with the guide portions 247 and 248, and the positioning portion 217 can engage with the mounting portion drive transmission rib 201d and the main body baffle portion drive transmission rib 206a.

[0098] Figure 21A and21B This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the supplementary package 210 and the attachment portion 200. Figure 21A This indicates that the installation part 201 is in the closed position and each baffle is in the closed position. In other words, the opening 213 (container opening) is closed by the sealing member 231 provided on the inner circumferential surface of the baffle 214, and the side surface opening 205 (receiving port) is closed by the main body baffle part 206. Figure 21B This indicates that the mounting portion 201 is in the open functional position and each baffle is in the open position. In other words, the opening 213 and the receiving port 205 are connected by a connecting hole 245, which is formed by an opening 207 provided in the main baffle portion 206 and an opening 244 of a sealing member 243 provided on the inner circumferential surface of the main baffle portion 206 in a manner surrounding the opening 207. In other words, this is the state in which toner (developer) can be replenished to the imaging device 1 from the replenishment package 210 (developer container).

[0099] Supplement the container's structure

[0100] Reference Figure 18A and 18B The construction of the refill pack 210 (refill container) is described below. The refill pack 210 includes: a bag portion 211 for containing the toner to be refilled; a discharge portion (nozzle portion, tube, pipe, valve) 212 for discharging the toner from the bag portion, which is a cylindrical insertion portion to be inserted into the refill port 204; an opening 213 formed on the side surface of the insertion portion 212 to allow the toner to pass through; and a baffle portion 214 covering the opening 213 to prevent toner leakage. The bag portion 211 is formed to be flatter in the direction opposite to the insertion portion 212, and a bag edge 216 extending in a predetermined direction is formed on its edge. The bag portion 211 is formed by bagging a flexible polypropylene sheet, but the toner container portion is not limited to a bag, but can be a resin bottle, paper, or vinyl container, etc.

[0101] like Figure 18A As shown, an opening 214c is formed on the baffle portion 214. When the baffle portion 214 rotates and the opening 214c aligns with the opening 213 of the insertion portion 212 (their rotational phase positions overlap), toner can be replenished from the replenishment pack 210. Figure 18B From and Figure 18A Views of the supplementary package 210 from different angles. The opening 213 formed in the insertion portion 212 is covered by the package baffle portion 214 and cannot be seen, so it is indicated by a dashed line.

[0102] The baffle portion 214 is a cylindrical component concentric with the insertion portion 212 and is rotatably disposed on the outer side (outer periphery) of the insertion portion 212. On the outer peripheral surface of the baffle portion 214, a positioning portion 217 that engages with the mounting portion 201 and a drive transmission surface 214b are provided, the drive transmission surfaces 214b facing each other across the positioning portion 217 in the circumferential direction of the outer periphery of the baffle portion 214. In other words, a groove (a recessed portion that extends inward from the outer peripheral surface of the baffle portion 214 in the radial direction r of the virtual circle VC) is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the baffle portion 214. This groove is composed of the positioning portion 217 as the bottom surface of the groove (bottom surface of the recessed portion) and the drive transmission surface 214b as the side surface of the groove. This groove opens at the front end portion of the outer peripheral surface of the baffle portion 214 in the insertion direction of the insertion portion 212. The baffle portion 214 rotates relative to the insertion portion 212 by receiving circumferential force from the drive transmission rib 201d of the mounting portion via the drive transmission surface 214b. Ribs 214a are provided between the drive transmission surfaces 214b for releasing the lever locking mechanism of the mounting portion 201. By arranging the ribs 214a for releasing the lever locking mechanism between the drive transmission surfaces 214b, the lever locking mechanism of the mounting portion 201 can be accurately released when the supplementary package 210 is attached.

[0103] Reference Figures 17A to 17C 18A and 18B describe in detail the construction of a replenishment pack (developer container) for an imaging apparatus or developer replenishment system according to this embodiment. Figures 17A to 17C This is an exploded perspective view of Supplement 210. Figures 17A to 17CThese are perspective views viewed from different directions. In the insertion portion 212, when the baffle portion 214 is in the closed position, the baffle portion opening 214c provided in the baffle portion 214 and the guided portion 232, which is recessed from the outer peripheral surface of the insertion portion 212, overlap each other in rotational phase in the circumferential direction. In this state, the supplementary package 210 is in a state where the guided portion 232 engages with and is guided by the guide portions 247 and 248, and the baffle portion opening 214c engages with the outer periphery of the sealing member 243 provided on the inner peripheral surface of the main baffle portion 206. When the supplementary package 210 is attached to the attachment portion 200, the first guided portion 232a (located on the upstream side in the insertion direction) of the guided portion 232 engages with the guide portion 247, and the second guided portion 232b (located on the downstream side in the insertion direction) engages with the guide portion 248. Furthermore, the surface (step portion) extending circumferentially between the first guided portion 232a and the second guided portion 232b engages in the insertion direction with the surface (step portion) extending circumferentially between the guide portion 247 and the guide portion 248, thus defining the position of the insertion portion 212 and the mounting portion 201 in the insertion direction. The baffle portion opening 214c is a notch-shaped opening whose width increases in the direction toward the front end of the insertion portion 212. A pair of facing portions are provided on each side of the sealing member 243 in the circumferential direction, which form the baffle portion opening 214c and face each other in the circumferential direction.

[0104] As a baffle engagement portion, the drive transmission surface 214b of the baffle portion 214 engages with the mounting portion 201 (rotating member) in the baffle portion 214, and as an opening / closing engagement portion, the drive transmission surface 214b of the baffle portion 214 engages with the main baffle portion 206 in the baffle portion 214. The baffle portion 214 moves (rotates) together with the mounting portion 201 by the control (operation) force of the mounting portion 201, and transmits the control force to the main baffle portion 206, thereby also moving the main baffle portion 206.

[0105] In other words, as a force-bearing area, the drive transmission surface 214b has a region that engages and contacts the drive transmission rib 201d (the part of the rotating component that is engaged) of the mounting portion. Specifically, as a baffle engagement portion, the drive transmission surface 214b includes: a first baffle engagement portion 218b1, which is a part of the first recessed side surface 214b1 (the first recessed part side surface) of a pair of recessed side surfaces of the recessed portion; and a second baffle engagement portion 218b2, which is a part of the second recessed side surface 214b2 (the second recessed part side surface) of the pair of recessed side surfaces. On the other hand, as the rotating component engaged portion, the drive transmission rib 201d of the mounting portion includes: a first engagement portion 201d1 (the first rotating component engaged portion), which engages with the portion 218b1 of the drive transmission surface 214b in one circumferential direction around the rotation axis; and a second engagement portion 201d2 (the second rotating component engaged portion), which engages with the portion 218b2 of the drive transmission surface 214b in another circumferential direction. Each engagement portion 201d1 and 201d2 of the mounting portion drive transmission rib 201d has a protruding shape extending from the inner circumferential surface of the annular mounting portion 201 centered on the rotation axis RA toward the rotation axis RA side.

[0106] Furthermore, in the force application area (a pair of force application portions), the drive transmission surface 214b includes a region that engages and contacts the drive transmission rib 206a (open / close engagement portion) of the main body baffle portion. Specifically, as the open / close engagement portion, the drive transmission surface 214b includes a portion (first open / close engagement portion) 219b1 located at a position different from the first baffle engagement portion 218b1 (downstream side in the insertion direction) on the first groove side surface in the direction of rotation axis RA, and a portion (second open / close engagement portion) 219b2 located at a position different from the second baffle engagement portion 218b2 (downstream side in the insertion direction) on the second groove side surface in the direction of rotation axis RA. On the other hand, as the opening / closing engaged portion, the main body baffle portion drive transmission rib 206a includes: a first baffle protruding portion side surface 206a1, which is a portion that engages with the portion 219b1 of the drive transmission surface 214b in one circumferential direction (first opening / closing engaged portion); and a second baffle protruding portion side surface 206b2, which is a portion that engages with the portion 219b2 of the drive transmission surface 214b in another circumferential direction (second opening / closing engaged portion).

[0107] Description of the lever locking mechanism (rotation control mechanism)

[0108] Reference Figure 24 , 25A25B, 26A, and 26B describe the lever locking mechanism. The rotation direction of the mounting portion 201 is restricted by the lever locking mechanism so that it is in its initial position when the supplementary package 210 is not attached. Figure 24 This is a perspective view illustrating the rotation limiting mechanism of this embodiment, showing only the lever locking member 227 (limiting member), the lever locking release link 229 (release member), and the lever locking portion pressing spring 228 (biasing member that limits the return portion). Figure 25A and 25B These are the bottom view and sectional view of the mounting part 201 and the lever locking mechanism when the lever locking component 227 is in the restricted position (locked state). Figure 26A and 26B These are bottom and sectional views of the mounting portion 201 and the lever locking mechanism when the lever locking component 227 is in the allowable position (locked-out state).

[0109] like Figure 25A and 25B As shown, when the lever locking mechanism is actuated, the lever locking member 227 is pressed against the mounting portion 201 by the lever locking portion pressing spring 228, and the lever locking pressing portion 227a is inserted into the opening 201e of the mounting portion 201. If the mounting portion 201 rotates in this state, the inner wall of the opening 201e rotates along the rotation paths R1 and R2, as... Figure 25A As shown. P1 represents the transition portion where the rotation limiting surface 227b changes to the inclined surface 227d, and P2 represents the transition portion at the rotation limiting surface 227c. When the lever locking mechanism is actuated, P1 and P2 are located inside the rotation paths R1 and R2. Therefore, the inner wall of the opening 201e (the restricted portion) contacts and engages with the rotation limiting surfaces 227b and 227c (the limiting portions), which are surfaces perpendicular to the rotation direction, thereby restricting the rotation of the mounting portion 201.

[0110] like Figure 26A and 26B As shown, when the supplement pack 210 is attached, the lever lock release rib 214a passes through the lock release recess 201f and contacts the lever lock release link 229. The lever lock release link 229 has an inclined surface shape 229a that contacts the lever lock release rib 214a and serves as a contact actuation portion. The lever lock release link 229 receives a force from the pack baffle portion 214 that moves the lever lock member 227 toward the pressing position (the position that moves toward the lever lock release position) by means of the inclined surface shape 229a and the lever lock release rib 214a. The inclined surface shape 229a has a shape that is inclined toward the direction in which the supplement pack 210 is inserted into the mounting portion 201. In other words, the inclined surface shape 229a is inclined in such a way that the force received from the lever lock release rib 214a includes a component force acting in the direction that moves the lever lock release link 229 toward the pressing position.

[0111] like Figure 26B As shown, the force received from the lever lock release rib 214a by the inclined surface shape 229a (pressed portion) presses the lever lock release link 229 in the direction of the arrow, wherein the edge forming the inclined surface shape 229a crosses the side surface of the lever lock release rib 214a. As a result, the lever lock release link 229 moves to a pressed position in which the contact surface 229b (pressed portion) moves the lever lock member 227 toward the lever lock release position. Then, the lever lock member 227, in contact with the lever lock release link 229, resists the biasing force of the lever lock portion pressing spring 228 and moves toward the lever lock release position in the direction of the arrow.

[0112] like Figure 26A As shown, in the lever lock release position, P1 moves to the outside of the rotation trajectory R1, while P2 remains inside R2. Therefore, when lever portion 201b rotates in the direction of the arrow, inclined surface 227d contacts the inner wall of opening 201e, and lever locking member 227 retracts under the action of a component force, and inclined surface 227d crosses the inner wall of opening 201e. Therefore, lever locking member 227 allows lever portion 201b to rotate in the direction of the arrow, and lever portion 201b can rotate to the supplementary position.

[0113] Since P2 remains inside R2, rotation in the opposite direction is continuously restricted. In this embodiment, the assembly phase of the mounting portion 201 is set in the direction in which rotation is restricted, thereby preventing rotation in the assembly phase direction and rotation to the supplementary position after assembly from both being implemented.

[0114] Figures 27A to 27E This represents the sequential flow from the initial position to the supplementary position of the locking mechanism. Figure 27A In the initial positions shown, P1 and P2 are located inside the rotational trajectories R1 and R2, thereby restricting the rotation of the mounting portion 201, as described above. Figure 27B As shown, when the supplementary pack 210 is attached, the rod locking member 227 is retracted, and the mounting portion 201 can rotate in the direction of the arrow, as described above. Figure 27C This indicates that the locking component 227 has retracted and the inclined surface 227d has completely crossed the opening 201e. From this state to the supplementary position, the locking component 227 and the lever lock release linkage 229 are in relative positions and do not contact each other (separated state), as shown. Figure 27D As shown, the locking member 227 contacts the outer surface of the mounting portion 201 and remains in the rotation-allowed position. Since the locking member 227 does not interfere with the rotation of the mounting portion 201 in this state, the user can move the rod portion 201b to the supplementary position. If the mounting portion 201 is rotated to the supplementary position, such as... Figure 27EAs shown, the lever locking pressing portion 227a enters the supplementary position recess 201h of the mounting portion 201, where a sound can be heard or a change in operating force can be observed. Therefore, the user can easily identify that the lever portion 201b has moved to the supplementary position.

[0115] Supplementary container installation process

[0116] Reference Figure 28A , 28B 29A and 29B describe the process of replenishing toner using refill pack 210. Figure 28A and 28B This is a perspective view of imaging device 1. Figure 28A This indicates that the discharge tray 14 covers the attachment portion 200 and is in a position where the recording material P discharged from the discharge port 15 can be loaded. Figure 28B This indicates the state in which the discharge tray 14 is in the position where the attachment portion 200 protrudes from the discharge tray 14. The discharge tray 14 is configured to be movable as... Figure 28A The location of the recording material P shown can be loaded, and as shown in the figure. Figure 28B The location of the exposed attachment portion 200 is shown. The attachment portion 200 is located on the upper part of the front surface of the imaging device 1, so that the user can easily reach it when replenishing toner.

[0117] When replenishing the toner, the recording material P loaded on the discharge tray 14 is removed, and... Figure 28A The discharge tray 14 at the loadable position shown is opened to move to Figure 28B The exposed position is shown. When the discharge tray 14 is opened, the attachment portion 200 and the top surface portion 240 adjacent to the attachment portion 200 are exposed. Then, the replenishment package 210 is inserted into the exposed attachment portion 200. At this time, the replenishment package 210 is inserted such that the mounting portion provided in the attachment portion 200 drives the transmission rib 201d. Figure 19B The position of ) and the positioning part 217 set in the supplementary pack 210 ( Figure 18B The positions of the mounting portion drive transmission rib 201d and the positioning portion 217 are matched. If the positions of the mounting portion drive transmission rib 201d and the positioning portion 217 are not matched, the supplementary package 210 will interfere with the mounting portion drive transmission rib 201d and cannot be attached.

[0118] Here, if the mounting portion 201 and the lever locking release link 229 are different colors, the phase of the supplementary package 210 and the mounting portion 201 can be easily matched visually when the supplementary package 210 is attached.

[0119] Figure 29A This indicates the state where supplementary package 210 has been inserted into attachment portion 200. For example... Figure 29AAs shown, in this embodiment, the replenishment pack 210 can be inserted when the direction D of the bag edge 216 extends parallel to the X direction. When the replenishment pack 210 is inserted into the base of the attachment portion 200, the main body baffle portion of the attachment portion 200 drives the transmission rib 206a ( Figure 14 The positioning portion 217 of the baffle portion 214 of the supplementary pack 210 () Figure 18A and 18B The main body baffle portion 206 and the cover baffle portion 214 are engaged and integrated. In other words, the rib 206a faces the positioning portion 217 in the radial direction and is inserted between the drive transmission surface 214b, thereby engaging the main body baffle portion 206 and the cover baffle portion 214 as a whole. As a result, the main body baffle portion 206 and the cover baffle portion 214 can be rotated integrally by the operation of the rod portion 201b.

[0120] Figure 29B This indicates that the rod portion 201b has moved from the initial position to the replenishment position. At this time, the replenishment package 210 is fixed to the attachment portion 200 in the Z direction by a replenishment package holding mechanism (not shown). Then, as described above, the package baffle portion 214 provided in the replenishment package 210 is rotated by moving the rod portion 201b. Furthermore, since the main body baffle portion 206 engages with the package baffle portion 214, the main body baffle portion 206 of the attachment portion 200 rotates together with the package baffle portion 214. As a result, when the rod portion 201b moves to the replenishment position, the side surface opening 205 formed in the toner receiving portion 202 ( Figures 15A to 15C ) opens, simultaneously forming an opening 213 in the insertion portion 212. Figure 18A and 18B The side surface opening 205 formed in the toner receiving portion 202 and the opening 213 formed in the insertion portion 212 are positioned such that when the refill pack 210 is inserted into the attachment portion 200, the side surface opening 205 and the opening 213 face each other. Therefore, when the rod portion 201b moves from the initial position to the refill position, the refill pack 210, the attachment portion 200, and the container portion 18 are connected, and toner can be refilled.

[0121] Figure 30 Indicates viewing from the top Figure 29B This is a top view of the device in its current state. In the supplementary bag 210 connected to the imaging device 1 shown here, the direction D extending from the bag edge 216 is parallel to the X direction, as described above. At the edge of the top surface portion 240 exposed when the discharge tray 14 is opened, a protruding portion 241 protruding in the Z direction (upper side) is formed on the Y-direction positive side (front surface side). A notch 242 is formed in a portion of the protruding portion 241, and the position of the notch 242 corresponds to the rotation trajectory of the rod portion 201b.

[0122] exist Figure 30 In the diagram, the lever portion 201b in its initial position is indicated by a dashed line. After toner replenishment is completed, the lever portion 201b returns to its original position (initial position). At this time, following the reverse order of lever operation to the replenishment position, both the main body baffle portion 206 of the attachment portion 200 and the bag baffle portion 214 of the replenishment bag 210 rotate first, and then their side surface openings 205 and 213 are closed respectively. Then, the holding of the attachment portion 200 and the replenishment bag 210 is released, and the replenishment bag 210 can be detached from the attachment portion 200. Thus, unless the replenishment bag 210 is inserted into the attachment portion 200 of the imaging device 1, the bag baffle portion 214 is in a closed state, and toner leakage is prevented.

[0123] Example 2

[0124] In the configuration using the supplement pack 210, the user attaches the supplement pack 210 and replenishes toner to the imaging device 1. Therefore, if the user mistakenly attaches the supplement pack 210 filled with incompatible toner, image problems may occur. In Embodiment 1, the locking release recess 201f of the mounting portion 201 for the lever locking mechanism is formed to be larger than the locking release rib 214a of the supplement pack 210, and the lever locking mechanism can be released even if there is a slight misalignment between the positions of the locking release recess 201f and the locking release rib 214a. Therefore, in Embodiment 2, as... Figure 31A and 31B As shown, the positional relationship between the locking release recess 201f and the locking release rib 214a is designed to allow only compatible combinations, thereby preventing user attachment errors.

[0125] Figure 31A This indicates that the first supplementary package 210A, wherein the locking release recess 201f and the locking release rib 214a do not interfere with each other. In other words, the first supplementary package 210A is positioned such that the various guide portions of the first supplementary package 210A can engage with the attachment portion 200, and the locking release rib 214aA can be guided by the locking release recess 201f (guide portion). On the other hand, Figure 31BThe second supplementary package 201B is described, wherein the locking release rib 214aB is located at a different position than the locking release rib 214aA. The engagement positions of the various guide portions of the second supplementary package 210B are the same as those of the first supplementary package 201A, but the locking release rib 214aB is positioned where engagement with the locking release recess 201f is not permitted. Therefore, the second supplementary package 210B contacts the mounting portion drive transmission rib 201d adjacent to the locking release recess 201f and forms a wall portion (attachment restriction portion). Thus, the second supplementary package 210B is restricted from being attached to the attachment portion 200. When attaching the supplementary package 210, the phase between the supplementary container 210 and the mounting portion 201 is determined by the engagement of the positioning portion 217 with the mounting portion drive transmission rib 201d. Therefore, if the position of the locking release rib 214a is different, the locking release rib 214a interferes with the mounting portion drive transmission rib 201d, thereby preventing the supplementary package 210 from being fully attached. Therefore, by arranging the locking release ribs 214a at different locations in the refill pack 210 filled with incompatible toners, user attachment errors can be prevented.

[0126] While the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of the following claims should be given the broadest interpretation to cover all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. An imaging system, comprising: Developer container; and Imaging apparatus, comprising an attachment portion to which a developer container is attached, wherein The developer container further includes: The container part, which holds the developer; The discharge section has a container opening through which developer contained in the container section is discharged to the outside of the developer container, and the discharge section includes a discharge section joint portion; and A container baffle, rotatable about a rotation axis relative to a discharge portion between an open position in which the container baffle opens a container opening and a closed position in which the container baffle closes a container opening, and includes a baffle engagement portion; The attachment further includes: A frame having a receiving port through which the frame receives developer discharged from a container opening, wherein the frame includes a frame engagement portion configured to engage with an engagement portion of the discharge portion to restrict rotation of the discharge portion about a rotation axis. A rotating component, rotatable relative to a frame about a rotation axis, and at least a portion of which is exposed outside the imaging apparatus when the developer container is attached to an attachment portion, wherein, when viewed along the rotation axis, the rotating component is positioned radially outside the container baffle in a virtual circle centered on the rotation axis, and the rotating component includes a confined portion and a rotating component engaged portion that engages with a baffle engagement portion, and the rotating component is configured to rotate together with the container baffle through engagement of the rotating component engaged portion with the baffle engagement portion; and A rotation limiting mechanism includes a limiting member having a limiting portion and being movable between a limiting position and a permissible position. In the limiting position, the limiting portion restricts rotation of the rotating member by engaging with the limited portion of the rotating member. In the permissible position, the limiting portion allows rotation of the rotating member. The limiting member is in the limiting position when the developer container is not attached to an attachment portion. With the container baffle in the closed position, such that the discharge portion engages with the frame engagement portion and the baffle engagement portion engages with the rotating component engagement portion, the developer container is attached to the attachment portion, wherein... The limiting component is configured to move from a limiting position to an allowable position via attachment of the developer container to the attachment portion.

2. The imaging system according to claim 1, wherein: The container baffle includes a protrusion that projectes from an outer surface extending in the direction of the rotation axis in an intersecting direction, wherein... The rotation limiting mechanism also includes: The release member includes a pressed portion and a pressing portion, the pressing portion pressing the limiting member in the direction in which the limiting member moves from a limiting position to a permissible position; and A biasing component biases the limiting component in the direction in which the limiting component moves from the allowable position to the limiting position, wherein... When the developer container is attached to the attachment portion, the release member moves in the intersecting direction by pressing the pressed portion with the protrusion, and moves the limiting member from the limiting position to the allowable position by pressing the limiting member via the pressing portion against the biasing force of the biasing member.

3. The imaging system according to claim 2, wherein: The release component is located in the rotating component, wherein The limiting components are set in the frame, where When the rotating component rotates together with the container baffle to move the container baffle from the closed position to the open position, the limiting component and the releasing component transition to a separated state, where the limiting component and the releasing component are separated from each other. The release component contacts the outer surface of the rotating component in the separated state, thereby holding it in the permitted position.

4. The imaging system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The container baffle includes a recessed portion on its outer peripheral surface centered on the axis of rotation. This recessed portion extends along the direction of the axis of rotation and is recessed inward from the outer peripheral surface in the radial direction of the virtual circle. The recessed portion includes a bottom surface, a first side surface, and a second side surface. The first and second side surfaces are arranged across the bottom surface of the recessed portion in the circumferential direction of the outer peripheral surface and connect the outer peripheral surface and the bottom surface of the recessed portion. The baffle engagement portion includes a first baffle engagement portion formed by a portion of the side surface of the first recessed portion, and a second baffle engagement portion formed by a portion of the side surface of the second recessed portion, wherein... The rotating component has a hole having an inner circumferential surface centered on the axis of rotation, and a protrusion extending from the inner circumferential surface toward the axis of rotation, wherein The protruding portion includes a front surface of the protruding portion, a first side surface of the protruding portion, and a second side surface of the protruding portion, wherein the first side surface of the protruding portion and the second side surface of the protruding portion are arranged circumferentially across the front surface of the protruding portion. The rotating component being engaged includes a first rotating component being engaged as a first protruding side surface and a second rotating component being engaged as a second protruding side surface, wherein... When the developer container is attached to the attachment portion, the first baffle engagement portion and the first rotating component engagement portion engage with each other in the circumferential direction, and the second baffle engagement portion and the second rotating component engagement portion engage with each other in the circumferential direction, wherein... The pressed portion of the limiting member is disposed in the circumferential direction between the engaged portion of the first rotating member and the engaged portion of the second rotating member.

5. The imaging system according to claim 4, wherein: The attachment includes a device baffle, which is rotatable relative to the frame about a rotation axis between an open position where the device baffle opens the receiving port and a closed position where the device baffle closes the receiving port, and includes an open / closed engaged portion, wherein... The container baffle includes an opening / closing engagement portion, which engages with the opening / closing engagement portion when rotating together with the rotating component to cause the device baffle to rotate, wherein... With the container baffle in the closed position such that the discharge portion engages with the frame engagement portion, the baffle engagement portion engages with the rotating component engagement portion, and the open / close engagement portion engages with the open / close engagement portion, the developer container is attached to the attachment portion.

6. The imaging system according to claim 5, wherein: The opening / closing engagement portion includes a first opening / closing engagement portion and a second opening / closing engagement portion. The first opening / closing engagement portion is formed by a portion of the side surface of the first recessed portion located at a different position in the direction of the rotation axis from the portion constituting the first baffle engagement portion. The second opening / closing engagement portion is formed by a portion of the side surface of the second recessed portion located at a different position in the direction of the rotation axis from the portion constituting the second baffle engagement portion. The device baffle has a hole with an inner circumferential surface centered on the axis of rotation, and a baffle protrusion extending from the inner circumferential surface toward the axis of rotation, wherein... The protruding portion of the baffle includes a front surface, a first side surface, and a second side surface. The first and second side surfaces are arranged circumferentially across the front surface of the protruding portion. The opening / closing engagement portion includes a first opening / closing engagement portion that serves as the side surface of the protruding portion of the first baffle, and a second opening / closing engagement portion that serves as the side surface of the protruding portion of the second baffle, wherein... When the developer container is attached to the attachment portion, the first open / close engagement portion and the first open / closed engagement portion engage with each other in the circumferential direction, and the second open / close engagement portion and the second open / closed engagement portion engage with each other in the circumferential direction.

7. The imaging system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein When the first developer container and the second developer container can be used for the attachment portion, the protruding portion of the first developer container is located in a first position, and the protruding portion of the second developer container is located in a second position different from the first position. Furthermore, when the discharge portion engagement portion is located in a position relative to the frame engagement portion and the baffle engagement portion is located in a position relative to the rotating component engagement portion,... The attachment portion includes an attachment limiting portion that does not contact the protrusion in the first position but contacts the protrusion in the second position, thereby allowing the first developer container to attach to the attachment portion but restricting the second developer container from attaching to the attachment portion.

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