Developing cartridge

Abstract

A developing cartridge includes a housing, a developing roller rotatable about an axis extending in a first direction, a developing reservoir having an electrical contact surface, an agitator, an agitator gear rotatable with the agitator about an agitator axis, a retainer retaining the electrical contact surface, and a plate movable relative to the housing in a second direction crossing the first direction between a first position and a second position. The retainer is movable relative to the housing in a third direction crossing the first and second directions between a retracted position and an advanced position. The retainer is movable from the retracted position to the advanced position in response to movement of the plate from the first position to the second position. The plate is positioned farther from the developing roller in the second direction than the agitator gear and the retainer are from the developing roller.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a developer cartridge in which a developer memory having an electrical contact surface is movably held relative to a housing. Background Technology

[0002] A developer cartridge is known, comprising a developer memory having an electrical contact surface and a retainer for holding the electrical contact surface (see, for example, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-116826). The electrical contact surface is fixed to one end of the retainer. The electrical contact surface and the retainer are movable relative to the housing of the developer cartridge.

[0003] The developing cartridge is attachable to and detachable from a drawer. The drawer is attachable to and detachable from the imaging device body. The drawer includes a drawer-side electrical contact surface, and the electrical contact surface of the developing memory contacts the drawer-side electrical contact surface when the developing cartridge is attached to the drawer.

[0004] When the developer cartridge is attached to the drawer, the retainer holding the electrical contact surface moves relative to the drawer-side electrical contact surface. As a result, friction between the electrical contact surface and the drawer-side electrical contact surface generated when attaching the developer cartridge to the drawer is reduced.

[0005] An alternative mechanism needs to be found to allow the retainer that holds the electrical contact surface to move relative to the housing. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In summary, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a new structure that allows the retainer holding the electrical contact surface to move relative to the housing.

[0007] (1) To achieve the above and other objectives, according to one aspect, this disclosure provides a developing cartridge comprising a housing, a developing roller, a developing memory, a stirrer, a stirrer gear, a retainer, and a plate. The housing is configured to contain toner therein. The developing roller is rotatable about a developing axis extending in a first direction. The developing roller is positioned at one end of the housing in a second direction intersecting the first direction. The developing memory has an electrical contact surface facing a third direction intersecting the first and second directions. The stirrer is rotatable about a stirrer axis extending in the first direction and is configured to stir the toner contained in the housing. The stirrer gear is positioned at one end of the stirrer in the first direction and is rotatable together with the stirrer about the stirrer axis. The retainer holds the electrical contact surface and is movable relative to the housing in a third direction between a retracted position and an advanced position. The distance in the third direction between the electrical contact surface and the stirrer axis at the advanced position of the retainer is greater than the distance in the third direction between the electrical contact surface and the stirrer axis at the retracted position of the retainer. The plate is movable relative to the housing in a second direction between a first position and a second position, the second position being closer to the developing roller in the second direction than the first position. The retainer is capable of moving from a retracted position to an advanced position in response to the plate's movement from a first position to a second position. The plate is positioned further from the developing roller in the second direction than the agitator gear and the retainer are.

[0008] Using this structure, the retainer can move from the retracted position to the forward position in association with the movement of the plate from the first position to the second position.

[0009] (2) In the developing cartridge according to aspect (1), preferably, the housing comprises a housing body configured to contain toner therein and a gear cover covering at least a portion of the agitator gear. Preferably, the agitator gear comprises a large-diameter gear and a small-diameter gear, the small-diameter gear having a diameter smaller than that of the large-diameter gear. The small-diameter gear is positioned in a first direction between the large-diameter gear and the housing body.

[0010] (3) In the developing cartridge according to aspect (2), preferably, the retainer is positioned opposite the small diameter gear in a first direction relative to the large diameter gear.

[0011] (4) In the developing cartridge according to any one of aspects (1) to (3), preferably, the plate is positioned at the other end of the housing in the second direction, and the plate protrudes from the housing in the second direction when the plate is in the first position.

[0012] (5) Preferably, the developing cartridge according to any one of aspects (1) to (4) further includes a spring that pushes the plate from the second position to the first position.

[0013] (6) Preferably, the developing cartridge according to any one of aspects (1) to (5) further includes an interlocking mechanism connected to the plate and the retainer. The interlocking mechanism is configured to place the retainer in a retracted position when the plate is in a first position and to place the retainer in an advanced position when the plate is in a second position.

[0014] (7) In the developing cartridge according to aspect (6), preferably, the interlocking mechanism includes a cam that is movable in association with movement of the plate between a first position and a second position. The cam contacts a retainer to move the retainer between a retracted position and an advanced position.

[0015] (8) In the developing cartridge according to aspect (7), preferably, the cam is a translational cam that can move relative to the housing in a second direction.

[0016] (9) In the developing cartridge according to aspect (7), preferably, the cam has an inclined surface configured as a contact holder, the inclined surface being inclined relative to the direction of movement of the cam.

[0017] (10) In the developing cartridge according to any one of aspects (7) to (9), preferably, the cam is movable integrally with the plate.

[0018] (11) In the developing cartridge according to aspect (6), preferably, the interlocking mechanism includes a rack and pinion, a first pinion, a worm gear, and a second pinion. The rack and pinion is movable together with the plate in a second direction. The first pinion meshes with the rack and pinion. The worm gear meshes with the first pinion and is rotatable about a worm axis extending upward in a third direction. The second pinion meshes with the worm gear and is movable together with the retainer in a third direction.

[0019] (12) In the developing cartridge according to aspect (11), preferably, the first pinion includes a first gear meshing with a rack gear and a second gear meshing with a worm gear.

[0020] (13) In the developing cartridge according to aspect (11) or (12), preferably, the housing has a guide groove configured to guide a second pinion and extending upward in a third direction, the guide groove having gear teeth. Preferably, the second pinion comprises: a third gear meshing with a worm gear; and a fourth gear meshing with the gear teeth of the guide groove.

[0021] (14) In the developing cartridge according to aspect (6), preferably, the interlocking mechanism includes a first link supported by the housing and pivotally movable relative to the housing about a first axis. The first link is connected to a plate and pivotable relative to the plate. The first link is connected to a retainer.

[0022] (15) In the developing cartridge according to aspect (14), preferably, one of the plate and the first link has a first slot extending in a direction intersecting the second direction, and the other of the plate and the first link has a first pin inserted into the first slot.

[0023] (16) In the developing cartridge according to aspect (14) or (15), preferably, the interlocking mechanism further includes a second link supported by the housing and pivotally movable relative to the housing about a second axis extending in a first direction. The second link is connected to the first link and pivotable relative to the first link. The second link is connected to the retainer and pivotable relative to the retainer.

[0024] (17) In the developing cartridge according to aspect (16), preferably, one of the second link and the retainer has a second slot extending in a direction intersecting the third direction, and the other of the second link and the retainer has a second pin inserted into the second slot.

[0025] (18) Preferably, the developing cartridge according to aspect (2) further includes a protrusion that protrudes from one end of the outer casing in a first direction and is positioned between the outer casing and the large-diameter gear in the first direction. Preferably, the protrusion is spaced apart from the developing roller in a second direction by a distance smaller than the distance between the developing roller and the small-diameter gear in the second direction.

[0026] (19) In the developing cartridge according to aspect (18), preferably, the plate is positioned further away from the developing roller in the second direction than the agitator gear and the holder are.

[0027] (20) Preferably, the developing cartridge according to any one of aspects (1) to (19) further includes a retainer cover that holds the retainer such that the retainer is movable relative to the housing between a retracted position and an advanced position.

[0028] (21) In the developing cartridge according to any one of aspects (1) to (20), preferably, the developing cartridge is configured to be attached to the device body of an imaging apparatus, the device body comprising: a housing having an opening; and a cover pivotally movable relative to the housing between a closed position with the cover closed and an open position with the cover open. The developing cartridge is attachable to the device body through the opening. Preferably, with the developing cartridge attached to the device body and the cover moved from the open position to the closed position, the plate is pushed by the cover to move from a first position to a second position. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Specific 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, wherein:

[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic side view showing the state of the processing box being attached to the main body of the imaging device;

[0031] Figure 2 It is a three-dimensional view of the drum and developing chambers separated from each other;

[0032] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the processing box;

[0033] Figure 4A This is a side view of the developing cartridge with its retainer in the retracted position;

[0034] Figure 4B This is a side view of the developing cartridge with the holder in the forward position;

[0035] Figure 5A This is a cross-sectional view of the developing cartridge with its gear cover removed;

[0036] Figure 5B This is a three-dimensional view of the agitator gear as seen from the side of the smaller diameter gear.

[0037] Figure 6 This is an exploded perspective view of the interlocking mechanism in the developing cartridge according to the first embodiment;

[0038] Figure 7A This is a view showing the interlocking mechanism in the developing cartridge according to the first embodiment when viewed from the inside of the gear cover, and particularly shows the state in which the plate is in the first position;

[0039] Figure 7B This is a view showing the interlocking mechanism in the developing cartridge according to the first embodiment when viewed from the inside of the gear cover, and particularly shows the state in which the plate is in the second position;

[0040] Figure 8 This is an exploded perspective view of the interlocking mechanism in the developing cartridge according to the second embodiment;

[0041] Figure 9A This is a view showing the interlocking mechanism in the developing cartridge according to the second embodiment when viewed from the inside of the gear cover, and particularly shows the state in which the plate is in the first position;

[0042] Figure 9B yes Figure 9A An enlarged view of a portion of the interlocking mechanism;

[0043] Figure 10A This is a view showing the interlocking mechanism in the developing cartridge according to the second embodiment when viewed from the inside of the gear cover, and particularly shows the state in which the plate is in the second position;

[0044] Figure 10B yes Figure 10A An enlarged view of a portion of the interlocking mechanism;

[0045] Figure 11A This is a view showing the interlocking mechanism in the developing cartridge according to the third embodiment, in which the gear cover is partially cut off, and particularly showing the plate in the first position;

[0046] Figure 11B This is a view showing the interlocking mechanism in the developing cartridge according to the third embodiment, in which the gear cover is partially cut off, and particularly shows the plate in the second position;

[0047] Figure 12A This is a view showing the interlocking mechanism in the developing cartridge according to a modified version of the third embodiment with the gear cover partially removed. In this modified version, the first link of the third embodiment is directly connected to the retainer, and the plate is specifically shown in a first position.

[0048] Figure 12B This is a view showing the interlocking mechanism in the developing cartridge according to a modified example of the third embodiment with the gear cover partially removed, and specifically shows the plate in the second position. Detailed Implementation

[0049] <First Embodiment>

[0050] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 1 to 7B The developing cartridge 30 according to the first embodiment is described.

[0051] like Figure 1 As shown, the developing cartridge 30 can be attached to the device body 10 of the imaging apparatus. Specifically, the device body 10 includes a housing 11 having an opening 13, and a cover 12 for opening and closing the opening 13. The cover 12 is pivotally movable relative to the housing 11 between a closed position indicated by a double-dotted line and an open position indicated by a solid line. When the cover 12 is in the open position, the processing cartridge 20 can be attached to the device body 10 through the opening 13.

[0052] The cover 12 has a protrusion 12A, which is configured to protrude into the interior of the housing 11 when the cover 12 is in the closed position. The shape of the protrusion 12A is such that it can press against the plate 55 of the developing cartridge 30 (described later) when the cover 12 is in the closed position.

[0053] like Figure 2 As shown, the processing cartridge 20 includes a developing cartridge 30 and a drum cartridge 40. The drum cartridge 40 includes a drum frame 41, a photosensitive drum 42, and a pair of pressing parts 48.

[0054] The photosensitive drum 42 is rotatable about a drum axis X4 extending in a first direction. The drum frame 41 rotatably supports the photosensitive drum 42.

[0055] The pressing portion 48 is configured to press the developing cartridge 30 when it is attached to the drum housing 40. The pressing portion 48 is positioned at the drum frame 41. Each pressing portion 48 includes a spring 48A and a pressing member 48B. The pressing member 48B is pushed towards the photosensitive drum 42 by the spring 48A. Specifically, the pair of pressing portions 48 are: a first pressing portion 481; and a second pressing portion 482, which is positioned away from the first pressing portion 481 in a first direction.

[0056] The developing cartridge 30 includes a housing 31, a developing roller 32, a developing memory 51, a retainer 52, a retainer cover 53, and a plate 55.

[0057] The housing 31 is configured to store toner therein. The housing 31 includes: a housing body 31A configured to store toner; and a gear cover 31B that covers at least a portion of the stirrer gear 60 (described later). In this embodiment, the gear cover 31B covers the entire stirrer gear 60 (see [link to original text]). Figure 4A and 4B ).

[0058] The outer casing 31A includes two sidewalls 31W and a pair of protrusions 58. The sidewalls 31W include a first sidewall 31W1 and a second sidewall 31W2 positioned away from the first sidewall 31W1 in a first direction. The sidewalls 31W (31W1, 31W2) are located at the ends of the outer casing 31A in the first direction. The protrusions 58 are respectively positioned at one of the sidewalls 31W (in...). Figure 2 (Only one of the protrusions 58 located on the sidewall 31W1 is shown in the image).

[0059] Specifically, one of the protrusions 58 is located on the first sidewall 31W1, while the other protrusion 58 is located on the second sidewall 31W2. The protrusions 58 protrude outward from their respective sidewalls 31W in a first direction. With the developing cartridge 30 attached to the drum cartridge 40, the protrusions 58 are pushed towards the photosensitive drum 42 by their respective pressing portions 48. In this way, the housing 31 is pushed by the pressing portions 48, causing the developing roller 32 held by the housing 31 to be pressed against the photosensitive drum 42.

[0060] The developing roller 32 is configured to supply toner to the photosensitive drum 42. (Reference) Figure 2 and Figure 3 The developing roller 32 is rotatable about a developing axis X1 extending in a first direction. The developing roller 32 is positioned at one end of the housing 31 in a second direction intersecting the first direction. In this embodiment, the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0061] The developer memory 51 is configured to store information about the developer cartridge 30, such as identification information and lifespan of the developer cartridge 30. The developer memory 51 has an electrical contact surface 51A facing a third direction intersecting the first and second directions. In this embodiment, the third direction is perpendicular to the first and second directions. The electrical contact surface 51A is located on one surface of a circuit board (not shown). The developer memory 51 also includes a memory element (not shown) located on an opposite surface of the circuit board. Although in this embodiment the memory element is located on the circuit board, the memory element may also be located away from the circuit board to be electrically connected to the electrical contact surface 51A and the circuit board via wiring.

[0062] The retainer 52 has an elongated shape extending in a third direction. The retainer 52 has a third-direction-oriented end that holds the electrical contact surface 51A. In this embodiment, the developing memory 51 is held at the third-direction-oriented end of the retainer 52.

[0063] Retainer cover 53 retains retainer 52 such that retainer 52 can be in the retracted position relative to housing 31 (e.g., Figure 4A (as shown) and forward position (as shown) Figure 4B Move between (as shown).

[0064] like Figure 4A and 4B As shown, plate 55 is configured to move via cover 12 to move the electrical contact surface 51A of holder 52 and developer memory 51 in a third direction. Plate 55 is movable in a second direction. Specifically, plate 55 is slidably guided by gear cover 31B. The shape of plate 55 can be arbitrary. Plate 55 can be a thin plate or a thick rod.

[0065] Plate 55 is positioned at the other end of housing 31 in the second direction. Plate 55 is positioned further from developing roller 32 in the second direction than holder 52 is from developing roller 32. Furthermore, plate 55 is positioned further from developing roller 32 in the second direction than stirrer gear 60 is from developing roller 32. With this structure, since plate 55 is positioned further from developing roller 32 in the second direction than stirrer gear 60 and holder 52 are from developing roller 32, plate 55 can be easily pushed and moved by cover 12.

[0066] Plate 55 can be relative to housing 31 in Figure 4A The first position shown (where plate 55 places retainer 52 in the retracted position) and Figure 4BThe plate 55 moves between the second position shown (where plate 55 places holder 52 in the forward position). In the second position, plate 55 is positioned closer to developing roller 32 in a second direction than plate 55 in the first position. In the first position, plate 55 protrudes from housing 31 in a second direction.

[0067] like Figure 3 As shown, the drum box 40 also includes a charger 43, a transfer roller 44, a first cleaning roller 45, a second cleaning roller 47, and a transfer roller 46.

[0068] Charger 43 is configured to charge photosensitive drum 42. Charger 43 is a Scorotron-type charger located away from photosensitive drum 42.

[0069] The transfer roller 44 is configured to transfer toner from the photosensitive drum 42 onto a sheet (not shown). The transfer roller 44 is rotatable about a transfer axis X5 extending in a first direction. The transfer roller 44 is in contact with the photosensitive drum 42. The transfer roller 44 faces the photosensitive drum 42 in a third direction.

[0070] The first cleaning roller 45 is configured to remove toner deposited on the photosensitive drum 42. The first cleaning roller 45 is rotatable about a first cleaning axis X61 extending in a first direction. The first cleaning roller 45 is in contact with the photosensitive drum 42.

[0071] The second cleaning roller 47 is configured to remove toner deposited on the first cleaning roller 45. The second cleaning roller 47 is rotatable about a second cleaning axis X62 extending in a first direction. The second cleaning roller 47 is in contact with the first cleaning roller 45.

[0072] The conveyor roller 46 is configured to convey the sheet toward the photosensitive drum 42. The conveyor roller 46 is rotatable about a conveyor axis X7 extending in a first direction.

[0073] The developing cartridge 30 also includes a supply roller 33, a layer thickness adjusting blade 34, and a stirrer 35.

[0074] The supply roller 33 is configured to supply toner to the developing roller 32. The supply roller 33 is rotatable about a supply axis X2 extending in a first direction. The supply roller 33 is located inside the housing body 31A.

[0075] The layer thickness adjustment blade 34 is configured to adjust the thickness of the toner layer on the developing roller 32. The layer thickness adjustment blade 34 is in contact with the developing roller 32.

[0076] Agitator 35 is configured to agitate the toner contained in the housing body 31A. Agitator 35 is also configured to supply the toner to a supply roller 33. Agitator 35 is rotatable about an agitator axis X3 extending in a first direction. Agitator 35 is located inside the housing body 31A.

[0077] like Figure 4A As shown, with the retainer 52 in the retracted position, the electrical contact surface 51A and the stirrer axis X3 define a first distance L1 between them in the third direction. Figure 4B As shown, with the retainer 52 in the forward position, the electrical contact surface 51A and the stirrer axis X3 define a second distance L2 in the third direction between them, which is greater than the first distance L1.

[0078] like Figure 5A As shown, the stirrer gear 60 is positioned at one end of the stirrer 35 in a first direction. Specifically, the stirrer 35 includes a shaft 35S. The stirrer gear 60 is positioned at one end of the shaft 35S in the first direction. The stirrer gear 60 is fixed to the shaft 35S and is rotatable together with the stirrer 35 about the stirrer axis X3.

[0079] like Figure 5B As shown, the stirrer gear 60 includes a large-diameter gear 61 and a small-diameter gear 62. The diameter of the small-diameter gear 62 is smaller than the diameter of the large-diameter gear 61. The small-diameter gear 62 is positioned in a first direction between the large-diameter gear 61 and the housing body 31A.

[0080] like Figure 5A As shown, protrusion 58 protrudes from one end of the housing body 31A in a first direction. Protrusion 58 is positioned between the housing body 31A and the large-diameter gear 61 in the first direction. The distance L3 defined by the developing roller 32 and protrusion 58 is less than the distance L4 between the developing roller 32 and the small-diameter gear 62.

[0081] like Figure 6 As shown, the retainer 52 is positioned relative to the gear cover 31B and opposite the stirrer gear 60 in a first direction. Furthermore, the retainer 52 is positioned relative to the large-diameter gear 61 and opposite the small-diameter gear 62 in a first direction.

[0082] The developing cartridge 30 also includes an interlocking mechanism 100 connected to each of the plate 55 and the retainer 52. The interlocking mechanism 100 is configured such that when the plate 55 is in a first position (e.g., ...), the plate 55 is in a first position (e.g., ...). Figure 7A The retainer 52 is placed in the retracted position (as shown) in the state shown. Figure 4A ), and plate 55 is in the second position (e.g. Figure 7B The holder 52 is placed in the forward position (see figure) under the state shown. Figure 4B ).

[0083] In this embodiment, the interlocking mechanism 100 includes a cam 110 and a spring 120.

[0084] Cam 110 is configured to move in association with the movement of plate 55 between a first position and a second position. Cam 110 is a translational cam (linear cam) movable relative to housing 31 in a second direction. Specifically, cam 110 includes a connecting portion 111 and a cam portion 112.

[0085] The connecting portion 111 is connected to the plate 55. The connecting portion 111 includes a boss 111A protruding in a first direction. On the other hand, the plate 55 has a hole 55A in which the boss 111A engages. By engaging the boss 111A in the hole 55A, the cam 110 is allowed to move integrally with the plate 55. In other words, the cam 110 can move together with the plate 55 by engaging the boss 111A in the hole 55A. The cam 110 can slide together with the plate 55 in a second direction.

[0086] The cam portion 112 contacts the retainer 52 and is configured to move the retainer 52 between a retracted position and an advanced position. The cam portion 112 extends from the connecting portion 111.

[0087] Similarly, Figure 6 As shown, the retainer 52 also includes a first boss 52A and a second boss 52B, both extending in a first direction. The second boss 52B is positioned further from the electrical contact surface 51A in a third direction than the first boss 52A. The length of the first boss 52A in the first direction is greater than the length of the second boss 52B in the first direction. In other words, the protrusion of the first boss 52A is greater than the protrusion of the second boss 52B.

[0088] The gear cover 31B has a first guide hole 181 and a second guide hole 182. The first guide hole 181 and the second guide hole 182 extend through the thickness of the gear cover 31B in a first direction. Both the first guide hole 181 and the second guide hole 182 extend in a third direction. A first boss 52A is inserted into the first guide hole 181. Specifically, the first boss 52A extends through the first guide hole 181. A second boss 52B is inserted into the second guide hole 182. Specifically, the second boss 52B extends through the second guide hole 182. With this configuration, the movement of the retainer 52 in the third direction is guided by the gear cover 31B.

[0089] The cam portion 112 extends from the connecting portion 111 in the second direction. Specifically, the cam portion 112 extends from the connecting portion 111 towards one side in the second direction (in... Figure 6 (From the center to the right). More specifically, the cam portion 112 extends from the connecting portion 111 toward the developing roller 32 in a second direction.

[0090] The cam portion 112 has a base end connected to the connecting portion 111 and a free end away from the connecting portion 111 in a second direction. The cam portion 112 includes a first retaining surface 112A, an inclined surface 112B, and a second retaining surface 112C. The first retaining surface 112A, the inclined surface 112B, and the second retaining surface 112C are arranged sequentially from the free end of the cam portion 112 toward the base end.

[0091] The first retaining surface 112A faces the third side upward (in) Figure 6 (Upward). With plate 55 in the first position, the first retaining surface 112A contacts the first boss 52A. With plate 55 in the first position, the first retaining surface 112A is positioned on the other side facing upward relative to the first boss 52A (in the third upward direction). Figure 7A (Middle to bottom).

[0092] The inclined surface 112B is inclined relative to a second direction, which is the direction of movement of the cam 110. The inclined surface 112B is inclined relative to the first retaining surface 112A and the second retaining surface 112C. The inclined surface 112B is inclined relative to the second direction such that the inclined surface 112B moves from the first retaining surface 112A to the second retaining surface 112C (at... Figure 7A (From the center to the left) and towards the third side upwards (in) Figure 7A (Extending upwards). The inclined surface 112B is configured to contact the first boss 52A to move the retainer 52 from the retracted position to the forward position according to the movement of the plate 55 from the first position to the second position.

[0093] The second retaining surface 112C faces the side with the third side upward ( Figure 6 (Upward). With plate 55 in the second position, the second retaining surface 112C contacts the first boss 52A to hold the retainer 52 in the forward position (see...). Figure 7B ).

[0094] Spring 120 pushes plate 55 from the second position to the first position. Spring 120 is a compression coil spring. Spring 120 extends in the second direction. Here, gear cover 31B includes a guide portion 185, which is configured to guide the movement of cam 110 and spring 120 in the second direction. Guide portion 185 includes a wall 185A that contacts one end of spring 120. The other end of spring 120 contacts connecting portion 111. With plate 55 in the first position, an initial load is applied to spring 120.

[0095] The developing cartridge 30 according to the first embodiment is configured such that it is attached to the device body 10 through the opening 13 when the cover 12 is in the open position, as shown below. Figure 1As shown. After the developing cartridge 30 is attached to the device body 10, the plate 55 is pushed by the protrusion 12A of the cover 12 as the cover 12 moves from the open position (indicated by the solid line) to the closed position (indicated by the double-dotted line), thereby moving the plate 55 from the first position to the second position.

[0096] At plate 55 Figure 7A In the first position shown, the first retaining surface 112A of the cam portion 112 is positioned more towards the opposite side (downward) relative to the first boss 52A of the retainer 52. Subsequently, as the plate 55 moves from... Figure 7A As shown, the cam 110 moves toward the second position, and the inclined surface 112B of the cam 110 causes the first boss 52A to move toward the third upward side (upward), thereby causing the retainer 52 to move from... Figure 4A The retraction position shown is moved to Figure 4B The forward position is shown. Simultaneously, the cam 110 compresses the spring 120. With the first boss 52A on the second retaining surface 112C of the cam 110, the second retaining surface 112C holds the retainer 52 in the forward position.

[0097] Conversely, when the cover 12 is in the closed position ( Figure 7B When the cover 12 (as shown) is moved to the open position, the protruding portion 12A of the cover 12 separates from the plate 55. Therefore, the plate 55 moves from the second position to the first position (as shown) by the pushing force of the spring 120. Figure 7A (As shown in the diagram). Therefore, the second holding surface 112C of the cam 110 no longer holds the retainer 52, and the retainer 52 moves downward toward the other side facing upward due to its own weight.

[0098] As described above, in the developing cartridge 30 according to the first embodiment, the retainer 52 can move from the retracted position to the forward position in response to the movement of the plate 55 from the first position to the second position.

[0099] Various modifications can be applied to the first embodiment.

[0100] For example, in the first embodiment, the plate 55 can slide in the second direction. However, the plate 55 can be pivotally and movably supported by the housing 31.

[0101] Furthermore, the cam 110 is connected to the plate 55 via engagement of the boss 111A in the hole 55A. However, the cam 110 can be fixed to the plate 55. Moreover, although in the first embodiment the cam 110 is configured to move integrally with the plate 55, the cam 110 can be configured to move according to the movement of the plate 55 between a first position and a second position.

[0102] Furthermore, different intervention mechanisms can be provided between the cam 110 and the plate 55 to move the cam 110 in an interlocking manner relative to the movement of the plate 55.

[0103] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the spring 120 contacts the connecting portion 111 of the cam 110 to push the plate 55 from the second position to the first position via the connecting portion 111. However, the spring may not contact the connecting portion 111 of the cam 110. For example, instead of the spring 120, the developing cartridge 30 may include a spring for the contact holder 52. In this case, the spring can push the holder 52 from the forward position to the retracted position to push the plate 55 from the second position to the first position via the interlocking mechanism 100.

[0104] <Second Embodiment>

[0105] Next, we will refer to Figures 8 to 10B The developing cartridge according to the second embodiment is described, wherein similar parts and components are indicated by the same reference numerals as those shown in the first embodiment. Except for the structure related to the interlocking mechanism, the second embodiment is identical to the first embodiment.

[0106] like Figure 8 As shown, the interlocking mechanism 200 of the developing cartridge according to the second embodiment includes a spring 120, a rack and pinion 210, a first pinion 220, a worm gear 230, a second pinion 240, a shaft 250, and a guide groove 260.

[0107] Spring 120 is the same compression coil spring as in the first embodiment. The gear cover 131B of the second embodiment includes a wall portion 185B that receives the pushing force of spring 120 (see...). Figure 9A In the second embodiment, the plate 155 includes a wall portion 155B that receives the pushing force of the spring 120. That is, one end of the spring 120 contacts the wall portion 185B, and the other end contacts the wall portion 155B. When the plate 155 is in the first position, an initial load is applied to the spring 120.

[0108] The rack and pinion 210 is integrally formed with the plate 155. The rack and pinion 210 and the plate 155 can slide together in a second direction.

[0109] The first pinion 220 meshes with the rack and pinion 210. Specifically, the first pinion 220 includes a first gear 221 and a second gear 222. A hole 223 is formed in the first pinion 220. A shaft 250 extends from the gear cover 131B in a first direction. The shaft 250 extends through the hole 223, allowing the first pinion 220 to rotate about the first gear axis X8 extending in the first direction.

[0110] Specifically, the first gear 221 and the second gear 222 are rotatable about the first gear axis X8. The outer diameter of the first gear 221 is larger than the outer diameter of the second gear 222. The first gear 221 meshes with the rack and pinion 210. The second gear 222 meshes with the worm gear 230. The second gear 222 can be a spur gear or a helical gear. Preferably, the second gear 222 is a helical gear to transmit the driving force from the second gear 222 to the worm gear 230.

[0111] The worm gear 230 is rotatable about a worm axis X10 extending in a third direction (assuming the third direction intersects the first and second directions). Here, the gear cover 131B has two support holes 271 and 272. Support hole 271 is separate from support hole 272 in the third direction. One end of the worm gear 230 is inserted into support hole 271, and the other end is inserted into support hole 272. The worm gear 230 is thus rotatably supported by the gear cover 131B. In this embodiment, the worm axis X10 is inclined relative to the third direction (assuming the third direction is orthogonal to the first and second directions).

[0112] The second pinion 240 meshes with the worm gear 230. The second pinion 240 includes a shaft 241, a third gear 242, and a fourth gear 243. Here, the retainer 152 of the second embodiment has a hole 152C in which the shaft 241 is inserted. The second pinion 240 can therefore rotate about the second gear axis X9 extending in the first direction.

[0113] Specifically, the third gear 242 and the fourth gear 243 are rotatable about the axis X9 of the second gear. The outer diameter of the third gear 242 is larger than the outer diameter of the fourth gear 243. The third gear 242 meshes with the worm gear 230.

[0114] The guide groove 260 is a narrow slot extending through the thickness of the gear cover 131B in a first direction. The guide groove 260 extends in a third direction (assuming the third direction intersects the first and second directions). Specifically, the guide groove 260 extends parallel to the worm axis X10. Figure 9B As shown, the guide groove 260 has gear teeth 261. Gear teeth 261 are formed on the inner surface of the guide groove 260. The fourth gear 243 of the second pinion 240 is positioned in the guide groove 260 and meshes with the gear teeth 261 of the guide groove 260. Incidentally, the guide groove 260 can be configured as a recess with a closed bottom, rather than a slot.

[0115] The operation of the interlocking mechanism 200 according to the second embodiment constructed in this way will now be described.

[0116] With cover 12 in the open position, plate 155 is in the following position: Figure 9AThe first position is shown. At this time, the retainer 152 is in the retracted position because the second pinion 240 is positioned at one end of the guide groove 260 on the other side in the third direction. Figure 9B (the lower end of the middle).

[0117] When the cover 12 is closed from this state, the plate 155 is pushed by the protrusion 12A of the cover 12, thereby moving the plate 155 from the first position to the second position relative to the outer casing 131, as shown. Figure 10A and 10B As shown. At this time, the rack and pinion 210 is oriented towards one side in the second direction ( Figure 10A The gear moves from center to right to rotate the first pinion 220. As the first pinion 220 rotates, the worm gear 230, which meshes with the second gear 222 of the first pinion 220, rotates.

[0118] As the worm gear 230 rotates, the meshing position E1 between the second pinion 240 and the worm gear 230 (see...) Figure 9B ) Towards the third side upward (in Figure 9B The second pinion 240 moves upwards. Therefore, the fourth gear 243 of the second pinion 240 moves along the guide groove 260 toward the third upward side, while rotating on the gear teeth 261 meshing with it. Thus, the second pinion 240 reaches one end of the guide groove 260 on the third upward side. Figure 10B (at the upper end of the middle), thereby keeping the device 152 positioned in the forward position.

[0119] Conversely, when the cover 12 is moved from the closed position to the open position, the protruding portion 12A of the pressing plate 155 of the cover 12 (as shown) Figure 10A and 10B (As shown) it separates from plate 155. Therefore, plate 155 moves relative to housing 131 from the second position by the pushing force of spring 120. Figure 9A The first position shown.

[0120] Therefore, the rack and pinion 210 faces the other side in the second direction ( Figure 9A The first pinion 220 rotates about the first gear axis X8, and the worm gear 230 rotates about the worm axis X10, moving from center to left. Here, during the closing movement of the cover 12, the worm gear 230 rotates in the opposite direction to its rotation, such that the meshing position E1 between the worm gear 230 and the second pinion 240 faces the opposite side (upward). Figure 10B (Move downwards from the center).

[0121] Therefore, the fourth gear 243 of the second pinion 240 moves along the guide groove 260 toward the other side in the third-direction upward direction, while rotating on the gear teeth 261 that mesh with it. In this way, the second pinion 240 reaches one end of the guide groove 260 on the other side in the third-direction upward direction. Figure 9B (at the lower end of the middle), so that the retainer 152 is positioned in the retracted position.

[0122] As described above, in the developing cartridge according to the second embodiment, the retainer 152 can be moved from a retracted position to an advanced position in association with the movement of the plate 155 from a first position to a second position.

[0123] Various modifications can be made to the second embodiment.

[0124] For example, in a second embodiment, the shaft 241 of the second pinion 240 is inserted into the hole 152C of the retainer 152. However, alternatively, the retainer 152 may have a shaft, and the second pinion 240 may have a hole for receiving the shaft.

[0125] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the spring 120 contacts the plate 155 to push the plate 155 from the second position to the first position. However, the spring may not contact the plate 155. For example, instead of the spring 120, the developing cartridge may include a spring that contacts the retainer 152. In this case, the spring pushes the retainer 152 from the forward position to the retracted position to push the plate 155 from the second position to the first position via the interlocking mechanism 200.

[0126] Furthermore, the developing cartridge may include a helical spring configured to apply rotational force to the first pinion 220. In this case, the helical spring pushes the plate 155 from the second position to the first position via a portion of the interlocking mechanism 200.

[0127] Furthermore, gear teeth 261 can be omitted from the guide groove 260, provided that the guide groove 260 has a portion capable of contacting the second pinion 240 to generate sufficient friction relative to the second pinion 240 to rotate it.

[0128] <Third Embodiment>

[0129] The following will refer to Figures 11A to 12B The developing cartridge according to the third embodiment is described, wherein similar parts and components are indicated by the same reference numerals as those shown in the first embodiment. Except for the structure related to the interlocking mechanism, the third embodiment is identical to the first embodiment.

[0130] like Figure 11A As shown, the interlocking mechanism 300 of the developing cartridge according to the third embodiment includes a first link 310, a second link 320, and a spring 330.

[0131] The first link 310 is supported such that it is pivotally movable (angularly rotatable) relative to the housing 231 about a first axis X11 extending in a first direction. The first link 310 has a first pin 311 projecting in the first direction. The first pin 311 is located on the opposite side facing the second direction, away from the first axis X11. The first link 310 also has a boss 312 projecting in the first direction. The boss 312 is located on the side facing the second direction, away from the first axis X11.

[0132] According to the third embodiment, the plate 255 is supported by the housing 231, allowing the plate 255 to slide in a second direction. The plate 255 can... Figure 11A The first position shown and Figure 11B The plate 255 moves between the second positions shown. The plate 255 has a first slot 255D extending in a direction intersecting the second direction. In this embodiment, the first slot 255D extends upward in the third direction. The first pin 311 of the first link 310 is inserted into the first slot 255D. Therefore, the first link 310 is connected to the plate 255 by inserting the first pin 311 into the first slot 255D.

[0133] The second link 320 is supported such that it is pivotally movable relative to the housing 231 about a second axis X12 extending in the first direction. The second link 320 has a second slot 322 extending in a direction intersecting the third direction. The second slot 322 is located on one side facing the second direction, away from the second axis X12. Furthermore, the second link 320 includes a third slot 323 extending in a direction intersecting the third direction. The third slot 323 is located on the other side facing the second direction, away from the second axis X12.

[0134] The boss 312 of the first link 310 is inserted into the third slot 323 of the second link 320. The second link 320 is connected to the first link 310 by inserting the boss 312 into the third slot 323.

[0135] The retainer 252 of the third embodiment includes a second pin 252D and a boss 252E. The second pin 252D is inserted into a second slot 322 of the second link 320. Therefore, the second link 320 is connected to the retainer 252 by inserting the second pin 252D into the second slot 322.

[0136] According to the third embodiment, the gear cover 231B includes a boss 231E. The spring 330 is a tension helical spring. The spring 330 extends in a third direction. One end of the spring 330 in the third direction engages with the boss 252E of the retainer 252. The other end of the spring 330 in the third direction engages with the boss 231E of the gear cover 231B. The spring 330 pushes the retainer 252 from a forward position to a retracted position. The spring 330 pushes the plate 255 from a second position to a first position via the interlocking mechanism 300.

[0137] The operation of the interlocking mechanism 300 in the developing cartridge according to the third embodiment constructed as described below will now be described.

[0138] With cover 12 in the open position, plate 255 is in the following position: Figure 11A The first position is shown. At this time, the retainer 252 is in the retracted position.

[0139] When the cover 12 is closed from this state, the plate 255 is pushed by the protrusion 12A of the cover 12, thereby moving the plate 255 from the first position to... Figure 11B The second position shown.

[0140] Therefore, the first slot 255D of plate 255 pushes the first pin 311, thereby causing the first link 310 to... Figure 11B It can pivotally move counterclockwise around the first axis X11. The boss 312 of the first link 310 pushes the third slot 323 of the second link 320, causing the second link 320 to... Figure 11B It pivots clockwise around the second axis X12. Furthermore, the second slot 322 of the second link 320 pushes the second pin 252D of the retainer 252 toward the third-upward side. Figure 11B (Upward). The retainer 252 therefore moves toward the third upward side. That is, the retainer 252 moves from the retracted position to the forward position. The spring 330 is stretched as the retainer 252 moves to the forward position.

[0141] When the cover 12 moves from the closed position to the open position, conversely, as... Figure 11B The protruding portion 12A of the pressing plate 255 of the cover 12 shown separates from the plate 255. The retainer 252 thus moves from the forward position to the retracted position by the pushing force of the spring 330. At this time, the second link 320 pivots counterclockwise, while the first link 310 rotates clockwise, opposite to those directions during the closing movement of the cover 12. The plate 255 thus moves from the second position to the first position.

[0142] As described above, in the developing cartridge according to the third embodiment, the retainer 252 can be moved from a retracted position to an advanced position in association with the movement of the plate 255 from a first position to a second position.

[0143] Various modifications can be made to the third embodiment.

[0144] For example, plate 255 may have a first pin and first link 310 may have a first slot. Furthermore, second link 320 may have a second pin and retainer 252 may have a second slot. Additionally, the first slot 255D need not extend parallel to a third direction, but may extend in a direction intersecting the direction of movement of plate 255.

[0145] Furthermore, plate 255 does not require slidable support, but can be pivotally supported relative to housing 231.

[0146] Furthermore, the developing cartridge may include additional link members at a location between the first link 310 and the second link 320 or between the second link 320 and the retainer 252.

[0147] Furthermore, the first link can be directly connected to the retainer 252. For example, Figure 12A and 12B A modified example of a third embodiment including an interlocking mechanism 400 is shown. According to this modified example, plate 355 has a first slot 355D. First link 410 has a first pin 411 inserted into the first slot 355D. First link 410 also has a second pin 252D of retainer 252 inserted into a second slot 412. With this configuration, first link 410 can respond to plate 355 from... Figure 12A The first position shown is to Figure 12B The second position shown is slidably moved and pivoted clockwise about its axis X13. As a result, the retainer 252 can move from the retracted position to the forward position.

[0148] Although this disclosure has been described in detail with reference to embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications and variations can be made therein. The embodiments described above are merely exemplary.

[0149] The developing cartridge disclosed herein can be used in monochrome or color imaging devices. Furthermore, the plate of this disclosure can be configured to be pushed by the user, rather than by the cover of the imaging device.

[0150] Furthermore, the components described in the various embodiments and modifications may be selectively combined with each other.

[0151] [Remark]

[0152] The developing cartridge 30 is an example of a developing cartridge of this disclosure. The housings 31, 131, and 231 are examples of housings. The developing memory 51 is an example of a developing memory. The electrical contact surface 51A is an example of an electrical contact surface. The developing roller 32 is an example of a developing roller. The agitator 35 is an example of an agitator. The agitator gear 60 is an example of an agitator gear. The retainers 52, 152, and 252 are examples of retainers. The plates 55, 155, 255, and 355 are examples of plates. The housing body 31A is an example of a housing body. The gear covers 31B, 131B, and 231B are examples of gear covers. The springs 120 and 330 are examples of springs. The interlocking mechanisms 100, 20, 300, and 400 are examples of interlocking mechanisms. The cam 110 of the interlocking mechanism 100 is an example of a cam. The inclined surface 112B is an example of an inclined surface. The rack and pinion 210, first pinion 220, worm gear 230, and second pinion 240 of the interlocking mechanism 200 are examples of the rack and pinion, first pinion, worm gear, and second pinion of the interlocking mechanism. The guide groove 260 is an example of the guide groove of the housing. The third gear 242 and fourth gear 243 are examples of the third and fourth gears of the second pinion. The first connecting rods 310 and 410 are examples of the first connecting rods of the interlocking mechanism. The second connecting rod 320 is an example of the second connecting rod of the interlocking mechanism. The protrusion 58 is an example of the protrusion at the housing. The retainer cover 53 is an example of the retainer cover.

Claims

1. A developing cartridge, characterized by, include: A housing configured to contain a toner; A developing roller, which is rotatable about a developing axis extending in a first direction, is positioned at one end of the housing in a second direction intersecting the first direction; A developing memory having an electrical contact surface facing a third direction intersecting the first and second directions; A stirrer, the stirrer being rotatable about a stirrer axis extending in the first direction, and configured to stir the toner contained in the housing; A stirrer gear, the stirrer gear being positioned at one end of the stirrer in the first direction and being capable of rotating together with the stirrer about the stirrer axis; A retainer that holds the electrical contact surface and is movable relative to the housing in a retracted position and an advanced position in the third direction, wherein the distance between the electrical contact surface and the agitator axis in the advanced position of the retainer in the third direction is greater than the distance between the electrical contact surface and the agitator axis in the third direction in the retracted position of the retainer. as well as A plate, which is movable relative to the housing in a second direction between a first position and a second position, the second position being closer to the developing roller in the second direction than the first position is closer to the developing roller, and a retainer being movable from a retracted position to an advanced position in response to the movement of the plate from the first position to the second position, the plate being positioned further from the developing roller in the second direction than the agitator gear and the retainer are further from the developing roller.

2. The developer cartridge of claim 1, Its features are, in, The outer casing includes: The outer casing body, the outer casing body being configured to contain the toner therein; and A gear cover that covers at least a portion of the agitator gear, and The agitator gear includes: Large diameter gears; as well as A small-diameter gear, the diameter of which is smaller than that of the large-diameter gear, is positioned in the first direction between the large-diameter gear and the housing body.

3. The developing cartridge according to claim 2, characterized in that, wherein The retainer is positioned relative to the small diameter gear in the first direction.

4. The developing cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, wherein The plate is positioned at the other end of the housing in the second direction, and when the plate is in the first position, the plate protrudes from the housing in the second direction.

5. The process cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, It further includes a spring that pushes the plate from the second position to the first position.

6. The developer cartridge of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The device further includes an interlocking mechanism connected to the plate and the retainer, the interlocking mechanism being configured to place the retainer in the retracted position when the plate is in the first position, and to place the retainer in the forward position when the plate is in the second position.

7. The developing cartridge according to claim 6, characterized in that, wherein, The interlocking mechanism includes a cam that is movable in association with movement of the plate between the first position and the second position, the cam contacting the retainer to move the retainer between the retracted position and the forward position.

8. The developing cartridge according to claim 7, characterized in that, wherein, The cam is a translational cam that is capable of moving relative to the housing in the second direction.

9. The developing cartridge according to claim 7, characterized in that, wherein The cam has an inclined surface configured to contact the retainer, the inclined surface being inclined relative to the direction of movement of the cam.

10. The developing cartridge according to any one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that, wherein, The cam is capable of moving as a whole with the plate.

11. The developer cartridge of claim 6, Its features are, The interlocking mechanism includes: A rack and pinion gear, which is capable of moving together with the plate in the second direction; A first pinion, which meshes with the rack and pinion; A worm gear, which meshes with the first pinion and is rotatable about an upwardly extending worm axis about the third gear; and The second pinion meshes with the worm gear and is capable of moving upward together with the retainer on the third side.

12. The developing cartridge according to claim 11, characterized in that, wherein The first pinion includes a first gear meshing with the rack gear and a second gear meshing with the worm gear.

13. The process cartridge according to claim 11 or 12, Its features are, in, The housing has a guide groove configured to guide the second pinion and extending upward on the third side, the guide groove having gear teeth, and The second pinion includes: The third gear meshes with the worm gear; as well as The fourth gear meshes with the gear teeth of the guide groove.

14. The developing cartridge according to claim 6, characterized in that, in, The interlocking mechanism includes a first link supported by the housing and pivotable relative to the housing about a first axis, the first link being connected to the plate and pivotable relative to the plate, and the first link being connected to the retainer.

15. The developing cartridge according to claim 14, characterized in that, in, One of the plate and the first link has a first slot extending in a direction intersecting the second direction, and the other of the plate and the first link has a first pin inserted into the first slot.

16. The developing cartridge according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that, in, The interlocking mechanism further includes a second link supported by the housing and pivotally movable relative to the housing about a second axis extending in the first direction, the second link being connected to the first link and pivotable relative to the first link, and the second link being connected to the retainer and pivotable relative to the retainer.

17. The developing cartridge according to claim 16, characterized in that, in, One of the second link and the retainer has a second slot extending in a direction intersecting the third direction, and the other of the second link and the retainer has a second pin inserted into the second slot.

18. The developing cartridge according to claim 2, characterized in that, The device further includes a protrusion that protrudes from one end of the housing body in the first direction and is positioned between the housing body and the large-diameter gear in the first direction. The protrusion is spaced apart from the developing roller by a distance in the second direction, the distance being less than the distance between the developing roller and the small-diameter gear in the second direction.

19. The developing cartridge according to claim 18, characterized in that, in, The plate is positioned further from the developing roller in the second direction than the agitator gear and the retainer are.

20. The developing cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, It further includes a retainer cover that holds the retainer, allowing the retainer to move relative to the housing between the retracted position and the forward position.

21. The developing cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 3, Its features are, The developing cartridge is configured to be attached to the device body of an imaging device. The device body includes: a housing having an opening; and a cover pivotally movable relative to the housing between a closed position (the cover closing the opening) and an open position (the cover opening the opening). The developing cartridge is attached to the device body through the opening. In the state where the developing cartridge is attached to the device body and the cover is moved from the open position to the closed position, the plate is pushed by the cover to move from the first position to the second position.

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