Optical drives and electronic devices

Abstract

The present invention reduces the size of an optical disc drive by shortening the path for transmitting the rotation of a loading motor. The transmission roller (20) contacts the optical disc and transmits the optical disc toward the position of a spindle motor (11) when in a first roller position, and does not contact the optical disc when in a second roller position. The slider (70) places the transmission roller (20) in the first roller position when in a first operating member position, and places the transmission roller (20) in the second roller position when in a second operating member position. The first transmission mechanism transmits the rotation of the loading motor (60) to the transmission roller (20). The second transmission mechanism transmits the rotation of the loading motor (60) to the slider (70). The distribution mechanism engages with each of the first transmission mechanism and the second transmission mechanism to distribute the rotation of the loading motor (60) to the first transmission mechanism and the second transmission mechanism.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an optical disc drive and electronic equipment. Background Art

[0002] Patent Documents 1 and 2 listed below each disclose an optical disc drive that can be installed in an electronic device such as a game console, a personal computer, or an audio-visual (AV) device. The optical disc drive includes a conveying roller that contacts an optical disc inserted through an insertion port formed in a front surface of the optical disc drive and conveys the optical disc to the position of a spindle motor, and a clamping pulley that magnetically fixes the optical disc that has reached the position of the spindle motor to the spindle motor.

[0003] [Citation List]

[0004] [Patent Document]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2015-022780A

[0006] [Patent Document 2] JP 2015-022779A Summary of the Invention

[0007] [Technical Issues]

[0008] The rotation of the loading motor is transmitted to a slider configured to move the conveying roller or the position of the conveying roller via a plurality of gears and belts. However, the long transmission path of the rotation of the loading motor disadvantageously causes, for example, an increase in the size of the optical disc drive.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to provide an optical disc drive including a shortened transmission path for the rotation of a loading motor so that the optical disc drive can be miniaturized.

[0010] [Solution to the problem]

[0011] According to the present invention, an optical disc drive includes a member having an insertion port, a spindle motor disposed behind and away from the insertion port, a conveying roller configured to be movable between a first roller position and a second roller position, the conveying roller being configured to contact an optical disc inserted through the insertion port and convey the optical disc toward the position of the spindle motor when the conveying roller is in the first roller position, and being configured not to contact the optical disc when the conveying roller is in the second roller position, a conveying roller operating member configured to be movable between a first operating member position and a second operating member position, the conveying roller being configured to place the conveying roller in the first roller position when the conveying roller operating member is in the first operating member position, and to place the conveying roller in the second roller position when the conveying roller operating member is in the second operating member position, a loading motor, a first transmission mechanism configured to transmit rotation of the loading motor to the conveying roller, a second transmission mechanism configured to transmit rotation of the loading motor to the conveying roller operating member, and a mechanism configured to engage each of the first transmission mechanism and the second transmission mechanism, respectively, and distribute rotation of the loading motor to the first transmission mechanism and the second transmission mechanism. According to the present invention, it is possible to reduce torque loss generated during transmission of rotation of the loading motor. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of an optical disc drive 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 2A It is the top view of the chassis.

[0014] Figure 2B This is a perspective view of the chassis.

[0015] Figure 2C It is along Figure 2A A cross-sectional view taken along line cc is shown.

[0016] Figure 3 It is an exploded perspective view depicting the top frame and components arranged in the top frame.

[0017] Figure 4 It is a perspective view showing the components of the conveying mechanism.

[0018] Figure 5 is a rear view of the conveyor roller and roller bracket.

[0019] Figure 6 It is a partial enlarged view of the right side of the chassis.

[0020] Figure 7 It is an exploded perspective view showing the loading motor and gear.

[0021] Figure 8 It is a left side view of the gear and roller bracket.

[0022] Figure 9Ais a left side view of the slide, gear, and roller bracket, depicting the slide in the first sliding position.

[0023] Figure 9B is a left side view of the slide, gear, and roller bracket, depicting the slide in the second slide position.

[0024] Figure 10A It is a top view of the top chassis, showing the optical drive without a disc.

[0025] Figure 10B It is along Figure 10A A cross-sectional view taken along line bb.

[0026] Figure 11 This is a top view of the top chassis, showing the situation of inserting a disc into the insertion port of the optical disc drive.

[0027] Figure 12A This is a top view of the top chassis, showing the disc placed in the drive position of the optical disc drive.

[0028] Figure 12B It is along Figure 12A A cross-sectional view taken along line bb is shown.

[0029] Figure 13 It is a perspective view showing the back side of the switching arm and the rotating arm.

[0030] Figure 14 It is a perspective view of the base frame and top frame.

[0031] Figure 15 This is an exploded perspective view of the base frame.

[0032] Figure 16A This is a bottom view of the bottom case.

[0033] Figure 16B It is along Figure 16A A cross-sectional view taken along line bb is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of an optical disc drive 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, Figure 1 In the embodiment, X1 and X2 are described as left and right directions, Y1 and Y2 are front and rear directions, and Z1 and Z2 are up and down directions. Figure 10B 、 Figure 12B), in a state where the optical disc is placed on the spindle motor 11, the direction from the spindle motor 11 toward the optical disc is assumed to be "upward", and the opposite direction is assumed to be "downward". In addition, in the direction perpendicular to the axis CB of the spindle motor 11, the direction in which the insertion port is set relative to the setting position of the spindle motor 11 is assumed to be "forward", and the opposite direction is considered to be "backward". In addition, it is assumed that the plane perpendicular to the axis CB of the spindle motor 11 is a horizontal plane. In addition, in the component (part), the uppermost position, the lowermost position, the leftmost position, the rightmost position, the frontmost position and the rearmost position are respectively assumed to be the upper end, the lower end, the left end, the right end, the front end and the rear end. In addition, a part of the component that includes at least the upper end, the lower end, the left end, the right end, the front end or the rear end is respectively assumed to be the upper end, the lower end, the left end, the right end, the front end or the rear end.

[0035] <1. Structure of an optical disc drive>

[0036] The optical disc drive 1 is housed in a housing of an electronic device such as a game console, a personal computer, or an AV device. Figure 1 As shown, the optical disc drive 1 includes a base 2 (base unit). The base 2 is generally plate-shaped, and the optical disc is placed on the base 2. The base 2 includes a spindle motor 11 that serves as a turntable for rotating the optical disc. The spindle motor 11 rotates around an axis CB (see FIG. 1 ) perpendicular to the upper surface of the base 2. Figure 10B and 12B ) rotates. In addition, the base frame 2 includes a circuit board on which the spindle motor 11 is mounted, an optical pickup (optical element), a motor that moves the optical pickup in the front-rear direction, and the like.

[0037] Note that the optical disc is, for example, a compact disc (CD), a digital versatile disc (DVD), a Blu-ray Disc (registered trademark), etc. The optical disc drive 1 described in this embodiment corresponds to an optical disc having a diameter of 12 cm.

[0038] Furthermore, the optical disc drive 1 includes a chassis 3. Figure 1 As shown, the bottom frame 3 is box-shaped, and various components such as the base frame 2 are arranged inside the bottom frame 3. In addition, the optical disc drive 1 includes a top frame 4 attached to the upper side of the bottom frame 3. The top frame 4 is generally plate-shaped and attached to the bottom frame 3 to form a structure together with the bottom frame 3 to accommodate the base frame 2, the conveying roller 20, the roller bracket 50, the loading motor 60, and the gears 61a to 61g described later (see FIG. Figure 7 The bottom frame 3 and the top frame 4 may include resin.

[0039] Figure 2A is a top view of the chassis 3, Figure 2A It is a perspective view of the chassis 3. Figure 2A and 2B The chassis 3 is depicted in which the various components are arranged. Figure 2A and2B As shown, the base frame 2 and the roller holder 50 to which the conveying roller 20 is attached are provided inside the bottom frame 3. In addition, a slider 70 is provided outside the bottom frame 3.

[0040] The bottom chassis 3 is box-shaped and includes a rectangular cutout 31 at its upper front edge. The cutout 31 and the (roughly plate-shaped) lower edge of the front end of the top chassis 4 form an insertion opening into which the optical disc is inserted. The optical disc inserted into the insertion opening is placed between the bottom chassis 3 and the top chassis 4. More specifically, the optical disc is placed between the transfer rollers 20 located within the bottom chassis 3 and the top chassis 4, and is transported by a transport mechanism A (e.g., the transport rollers 20). As a result, the optical disc is positioned between the base chassis 2 and the top chassis 4, which are located within the bottom chassis 3.

[0041] Figure 3 4 is an exploded perspective view depicting the top frame 4 and the components provided in the top frame 4. Figure 3 As shown, the clamping pulley 12, the switch plate 15, the switching arm 80, the rotating arm 90, the first limiting arm 110, the second limiting arm 120 and the plurality of springs 85, 96 and 116 are provided in the top frame 4. Each component will be described in detail below.

[0042] In addition, if Figure 1 As shown, the optical disc drive 1 includes a bottom case 5 and a cover 6 as components of the outer shell corresponding to the outermost shell of the optical disc drive 1. The bottom case 5 is shaped like a box, and the inner shell including the bottom frame 3 and the top frame 4 is accommodated in the bottom case 5. In this way, the outer shell (bottom case 5 and cover 6) covers the entire inner shell (bottom frame 3 and top frame 4), thereby suppressing dust from entering the interior of the optical disc drive 1 or the interior of the bottom frame 3. In addition, the bottom case 5 and the cover 6 can be formed of metal. This allows for suppressing electromagnetic waves from entering the interior of the optical disc drive 1 and leaking out of the optical disc drive 1.

[0043] A rectangular hole portion H is formed in the front surface of the bottom case 5. When the optical disc drive 1 is viewed from the front, the hole portion H overlaps with the cutout portion 31 formed in the chassis 3 and, together with the cutout portion 31, constitutes an insertion port for the optical disc drive. In other words, the optical disc drive 1 includes the bottom case 5 and the chassis 3 corresponding to the member provided with the insertion port.

[0044] The optical disc drive 1 also includes a transport mechanism A for transporting the optical disc, a centering mechanism B for aligning the optical disc, a clamping mechanism C for securing the optical disc, and a vibration suppression mechanism D for suppressing vibrations in the optical disc drive 1. The transport mechanism A is configured to transport an optical disc inserted into the insertion port from outside the optical disc drive 1 to the position of the spindle motor 11, and to transport the optical disc placed on the spindle motor 11 to the outside of the insertion port. The centering mechanism B is used to position the optical disc so that its center is aligned with the position of the axis CB corresponding to the rotation center of the spindle motor 11 (hereinafter referred to as the drive position). The clamping mechanism C is used to secure the optical disc in the drive position. The vibration suppression mechanism D is used to suppress the transmission of vibrations generated in the base frame 2 when the optical disc rotates in the drive position to the inner casing (bottom frame 3 and top frame 4) and the outer casing (bottom casing 5 and cover 6). In this embodiment, the transport mechanism A is provided on the bottom frame 3, the centering mechanism B is provided on the base frame 2 and top frame 4, the clamping mechanism C is provided on the top frame 4, and the vibration suppression mechanism D is provided in the base frame 2, bottom frame 3, and bottom casing 5. The conveying mechanism A, the centering mechanism B, the clamping mechanism C, and the vibration suppression mechanism D will be described below.

[0045] <2.Transmission mechanism>

[0046] The conveying mechanism A will now be described. The conveying mechanism A includes conveying rollers 20, which convey a disc inserted through the insertion port of the optical disc drive 1 toward the position of the spindle motor 11. The conveying rollers 20 are arranged to contact the disc inserted into the insertion port of the optical disc drive 1 (the space between the cutout portion 31 of the bottom chassis 3 and the top chassis 4). In this embodiment, the conveying rollers 20 are located below the conveying path through which the disc passes. Therefore, the conveying rollers 20 contact the lower surface of the disc, conveying the disc in the front-to-back direction.

[0047] The base frame 2 is provided inside the bottom frame 3, and the spindle motor 11 installed in the base frame 2 is provided behind and away from the cutout 31 constituting the insertion port of the bottom frame 3. In addition, inside the bottom frame 3, the conveying roller 20 attached to the roller bracket 50 is arranged in front of the base frame 2.

[0048] like Figure 2B As shown, the optical disc drive 1 includes a spring 25 configured to bias the transport roller 20 in a direction toward the transport path through which the optical disc passes (in this case, upward). The spring 25 is attached to a hole portion 53 formed on the left side of the roller bracket 50 relative to the center of the roller bracket 50. The spring 25 biases the roller bracket 50 and the transport roller 20 to place the transport roller 20 in the transport position. This causes the transport rollers 20 (the left roller 21L and the right roller 21R described below) to contact the lower surface of the optical disc.

[0049] The conveying mechanism A is operated by power received from the loading motor 60. When the conveying roller 20 is in the conveying position, where it contacts the lower surface of the optical disc, the power from the loading motor 60 rotates the conveying roller 21, thereby conveying the optical disc inserted through the insertion opening (the cutout 31 of the bottom frame 3) toward the position of the spindle motor 11. The conveying roller 20 is movable between a conveying position (a first roller position) where the conveying roller 20 contacts and conveys the optical disc, and a retreat position (a second roller position) away from the conveying position, by a conveying roller position operating mechanism (described later). The retreat position is a position where the conveying roller 20 is located below the conveying path of the optical disc, away from the conveying path, and out of contact with the disc.

[0050] Figure 4 : is a perspective view showing the components of the transmission mechanism A. Figure 4 As shown, the conveyor roller 20 includes a left roller 21L (left roller portion) rotatable about an axis CL (first axis) and a right roller 21R (right roller portion) rotatable about an axis CR (second axis). The left roller 21L and the right roller 21R are arranged in the transverse direction. The left roller 21L and the right roller 21R are separately formed cylindrical members. Therefore, the left roller 21L and the right roller 21R can be easily formed as separate members as described above.

[0051] The conveying roller 20 is arranged below the top frame 4. Figure 3 As shown, the top frame 4 includes openings 41L and 41R at positions corresponding to the left and right rollers 21L and 21R constituting the conveying rollers 20. When the conveying rollers 20 are in the conveying position, the outer portions of the left and right rollers 21L and 21R are placed in the openings 41L and 41R, respectively.

[0052] like Figure 4 As shown, the left roller 21L has a shaft portion 22L at the left end portion and a coupling portion 23L at the right end portion. Similarly, the right roller 21R has a shaft portion 22R at the right end portion and a coupling portion 23R at the left end portion. The left roller 21L and the right roller 21R are coupled via the coupling portions 23L and 23R. The coupling portion 23L is fixed to the left roller 21L, and the top end of the coupling portion 23L is formed into a frame shape. Similarly, the coupling portion 23R is fixed to the right roller 21R, and the top end of the coupling portion 23R is formed into a frame shape. At the center position of the conveying roller 20, the coupling portions 23L and 23R are coupled to each other by fitting the top end of one of the coupling portions 23L and 23R into the frame of the other. The left roller 21L and the right roller 21R may have the same frame shape.

[0053] By interconnecting the coupling portions 23L and 23R, the first end portion corresponding to one of the left end portion of the left roller 21L and the right end portion of the right roller 21R can be moved vertically relative to the second end portion corresponding to the other end portion, while maintaining the relative position of the axes CL and CR. In this case, while the coupling portions 23L and 23R are fixed to the support portions 51Lb and 51Rb, respectively, and the angle between the axes CL and CR remains unchanged, the first end portion can be moved vertically relative to the second end portion. Therefore, when a user inserts a disc, even if the disc is laterally misaligned, the left end portion of the left roller 21L or the right end portion of the right roller 21R moves vertically, maintaining the angle between the rollers. Consequently, the left roller 21L and the right roller 21R contact the disc in a predetermined area, allowing the disc to remain clamped. Furthermore, compared to, for example, a configuration in which the left roller 21L and the right roller 21R independently move to change the relative position of the axes CL and CR, this embodiment, in which the relative position of the axes CL and CR remains unchanged, has a simpler structure and can reduce the number of components in the optical disc drive 1.

[0054] The left roller 21L and the right roller 21R constituting the transport roller 20 are attached to a single roller bracket 50 and are rotatably supported by the roller bracket 50. As described above, the one roller bracket 50 supports the left roller 21L and the right roller 21R, and this structure can reduce the number of parts of the optical disc drive 1 compared to, for example, a structure in which two brackets support the left roller 21L and the right roller 21R, respectively.

[0055] Figure 5 : is a rear view of the conveying roller 20 and the roller bracket 50. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the roller bracket 50 includes a support portion 51La supporting the shaft portion 22L of the left roller 21L, a support portion 51Lb supporting the coupling portion 23L of the left roller 21L, a support portion 51Ra supporting the shaft portion 22R of the right roller 21R, and a support portion 51Rb supporting the coupling portion 23R of the right roller 21R. Figure 4 and the following Figure 8 As shown, support portion 51La is annular. Support portions 51Lb and 51Rb are also arc-shaped, opening upward. Shaft portion 22L and coupling portions 23L and 23R are mounted within support portions 51Lb and 51Rb. Support portion 51Ra is a protrusion that fits into a hole formed at the right end of shaft portion 22R of right roller 21R.

[0056] The support parts 51Lb and 51Rb supporting the coupling part 23L of the left roller 21L and the coupling part 23R of the right roller 21R are located below the support parts 51La and 51Ra supporting the shaft part 22L of the left roller 21L and the shaft part 22R of the right roller 21R. Therefore, the axis CL of the left roller 21L and the axis CR of the right roller 21R are inclined relative to the horizontal plane (the plane perpendicular to the axis CB of the spindle motor 11). Figure 5As shown, a disc-shaped optical disc O is horizontally inserted into the insertion port of the optical disc drive 1 and transported to the position of the spindle motor 11. Thus, the axis CL of the left roller 21L and the axis CR of the right roller 21R are tilted relative to the optical disc O placed on the transport roller 20.

[0057] The axis CL of the left roller 21L is inclined so that the distance between the axis CL and the optical disc O gradually increases from the left end portion of the transport roller 20 toward the center portion of the transport roller 20. Similarly, the axis CR of the right roller 21R is inclined so that the distance between the axis CR and the optical disc O gradually increases from the right end portion of the transport roller 20 toward the center portion of the transport roller 20. Since the axes CL and CR of the left roller 21L and the right roller 21R are inclined as described above, the left roller 21L and the right roller 21R can come into contact with the optical disc O except for the area of ​​the optical disc O where data is recorded (a circular area having a radius corresponding to a predetermined distance from the center of the optical disc O).

[0058] One of the left and right ends of the roller holder 50 is vertically movable relative to the other. Therefore, one (the first end) of the left end of the left roller 21L or the right end of the right roller 21R is vertically movable relative to the other (the second end). In this embodiment, the shaft portion 22R corresponding to the right end of the right roller 21R is vertically movable relative to the shaft portion 22L corresponding to the left end of the left roller 21L.

[0059] The left and right ends of the roller bracket 50 are supported by the chassis 3. Figure 4 As shown, the roller bracket 50 has a shaft portion 52L at the left end and a shaft portion 52R at the right end. The roller bracket 50 includes an axis CA along the transverse direction and is rotatable along the axis CA. The shaft portions 52L and 52R are cylindrical protrusions that protrude left and right from the roller bracket 50, respectively. They are located on the axis CA of the roller bracket 50 and are separated from each other in the transverse direction. Figure 2B As shown, the shaft portion 52L formed at the left end portion of the roller bracket 50 is fitted into the bearing portion 33L formed in the chassis 3. In addition, the shaft portion 52R formed at the right end portion of the roller bracket 50 is fitted into the bearing portion 33R formed in the chassis 3. Figure 4 As shown, the axis CA of the roller holder 50 is located in front of and away from the transport roller 20. Therefore, when the roller holder 50 rotates about the axis CA, the transport roller 20 attached to the roller holder 50 rotates and moves about the axis CA. This movement allows the transport roller 20 to move between a transport position where the transport rollers 20 (the left roller 21L and the right roller 21R) contact the optical disc and a retracted position below and away from the transport position.

[0060] The supported portion (shaft portion 52L or shaft portion 52R) is formed at one of the right and left ends of the roller holder 50, and the supporting portion (bearing portion 33L or bearing portion 33R) supports the supported portion and is formed by the base frame 3. The supported portion and the supporting portion can be formed to allow the supported portion to move in the vertical direction. Therefore, one of the left and right ends of the roller holder 50 can move in the vertical direction relative to the other, and one of the left end of the left roller 21L and the right end of the right roller 21R (the first end) can move in the vertical direction relative to the other end (the second end). In other words, depending on the state of the inserted optical disc, one of the left and right ends of the roller holder 50 is displaced in the vertical direction relative to the other, so that one of the left end of the left roller 21L and the right end of the right roller 21R (the first end) moves in the vertical direction relative to the other end (the second end). This makes it possible to maintain the appropriate connection between the optical disc and the rollers according to the state of the optical disc.

[0061] Figure 6 It is a partial enlarged view of the right side of the chassis 3. Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 6 As shown, in this embodiment, the chassis 3 has a right side wall portion 32R constituting the right end portion of the chassis 3 (the right frame portion of the box). In the right side wall portion 32R, a bearing portion 33R is formed. When the roller bracket 50 is biased upward by the spring 25, a gap d extending in the up-down direction is formed between the shaft portion 52R of the roller bracket 50 and the bearing portion 33R of the chassis 3. The gap d allows the right end portion (shaft portion 52R) of the roller bracket 50 to move in the up-down direction inside the bearing portion 33R. Note that in Figure 6 In the embodiment, the bearing portion 33R is formed as a cutout, but the bearing portion 33R may be a groove elongated in the vertical direction.

[0062] In addition, if Figure 2B As shown, the chassis 3 includes a left side wall portion 32L that forms the left end portion of the chassis 3 (the left frame portion of the box). Furthermore, a left inner wall portion 34 is formed inside the chassis 3. This left inner wall portion 34 is flat and parallel to the left side wall portion 32L. A left bearing portion 33L is formed in the left inner wall portion 34, so that the shaft portion 52L of the roller holder 50 fits within the bearing portion 33L. Within the bearing portion 33L, the left end portion (shaft portion 52L) of the roller holder 50 is restricted from vertical movement.

[0063] The conveying mechanism A includes a conveying roller driving mechanism that rotates the conveying roller 20. The roller driving mechanism can be connected to one of the left end portion of the left roller 21L or the right end portion of the right roller 21R whose movement in the up and down directions is restricted (the second end portion). As described above, when the roller driving mechanism is provided at the second end portion whose movement in the up and down directions is restricted, the roller driving mechanism can be easily connected to the conveying roller. In this embodiment, the bearing portion 33L of the base frame 3 restricts the movement of the left end portion (shaft portion 52L) of the roller bracket 50 in the up and down directions, thereby restricting the movement of the shaft portion 22L corresponding to the left end portion of the left roller 21L in the up and down directions. In addition, as Figure 4 As shown, a gear 24 is attached to a shaft portion 22L corresponding to the left end of the left roller 21L, and a conveyor roller drive mechanism (gear 61e described later) is coupled to this gear 24. The rotation center axis of the gear 24 is located on the axis CL of the left roller 21L. Note that a gear attached to the conveyor roller drive mechanism is not attached to the shaft portion 22R corresponding to the right end (first end) of the right roller 21R, which is allowed to move in the vertical direction.

[0064] Figure 7 It is an exploded perspective view showing the loading motor 60 and gears 61a to 61g. Figure 8 61b to 61g and the roller bracket 50. Gear 61a is a worm gear, which is mounted on the rotation shaft of the loading motor 60 and meshes with gear 61b. Gear 61 configured as a worm gear allows a certain reduction ratio to be achieved relative to the rotation speed of the shaft of the loading motor 60. In addition, as Figure 8 As shown, gear 61b meshes with gears 61a and 61c. Gear 61c meshes with gears 61b, 61d, and 61f. Gear 61d meshes with gears 61c and 61e. Gear 61e meshes with gear 61c and gear 24 connected to the left roller 21L. Gear 61f meshes with gears 61c and 61g.

[0065] As a part of the conveying roller driving mechanism that rotates the conveying roller 20, the conveying mechanism A includes a first transmission mechanism that transmits the rotation of the loading motor 60 to the conveying roller 20. In the present embodiment, the gears 61a to 61e correspond to the first transmission mechanism. That is, the rotation of the loading motor 60 is transmitted to the gear 24 via the first transmission mechanism corresponding to the gears 61a to 61e. Then, the gear 24 rotates clockwise or counterclockwise to cause the left roller 21L to which the gear 24 is attached and the right roller 21R coupled to the coupling portion 23L of the left roller 21L via the coupling portion 23R to rotate in the same direction (clockwise or counterclockwise) as the rotation of the gear 24 and at the same speed as the rotation of the gear 24. Figure 8 As shown, at least a portion of the loading motor 60 is located behind the gear 61e constituting the front end of the first transmission mechanism. Note that the first transmission mechanism is not limited to gears and may include a belt or the like.

[0066] Furthermore, the conveying mechanism A includes a roller bracket 50 and a slider 70 as a conveying roller position manipulation mechanism for moving the position of the conveying roller 20. Figure 2B As shown, a slider 70 is attached to the left end portion (left side wall portion 32L) of the chassis 3. The slider 70 serves as a transport roller operating member that moves the transport roller 20 to a transport position (first roller position) where the transport roller 20 contacts the optical disc and to a position (second roller position) where the transport roller 20 is separated from the optical disc and away from the transport position.

[0067] Figure 9A and 9B 3 is a left side view of the slider 70, the gear and the roller bracket 50. At the left end portion of the chassis 3, the slider 70 is movable between a first sliding position (first operating member position) and a second sliding position (second operating member position), the second sliding position being located forward of and away from the first sliding position. Figure 9A The slider 70 is shown in the first sliding position. Figure 9B FIG. 4 shows a case where the slider 70 is placed in a second sliding position ahead of the first sliding position. Figure 9A As shown in FIG. 1 , when the slider 70 is located at the first sliding position, the conveying roller 20 is located at the conveying position. Figure 9B As shown, when the slider 70 is in the second sliding position, the conveying roller 20 is located in the retracted position below the conveying position.

[0068] like Figure 2B As shown, the front end portion of the slider 70 is fitted into the guide hole 35 formed in the left end portion (left side wall portion 32L) of the chassis 3. A guide surface 71 facing forward and tilted downward is formed at the front end portion of the slider 70, and as shown in FIG. Figure 4 As shown, the guided portion 54 is formed at the left end portion of the roller bracket 50. The guided portion 54 protrudes leftward from the roller bracket 50. When the slider 70 moves from the first sliding position to the second sliding position, the guided portion 54 of the roller bracket 50 contacts the guide surface 71 of the slider 70 in the chassis 3 or in the guide hole 35 and is lifted up by the guide surface 71. At this time, the roller bracket 50 rotates along the axis CA to move the conveying roller 20 located behind the axis CA to the retracted position (see FIG. Figure 9B ).

[0069] The front end of the roller bracket 50 forms a shielding portion 55 that blocks the insertion port of the optical disc drive 1. The roller bracket 50 is pushed by the slider 70 to rotate about the axis CA, and is therefore positioned in front of the axis CA. At this point, the shielding portion 55 is positioned above the transport roller 20, blocking the insertion port of the optical disc drive 1. This prevents the user from attempting to insert another optical disc into the insertion port when a disc is placed on the spindle motor 11.

[0070] As a conveying roller position manipulation mechanism for moving the position of the conveying roller 20, the conveying mechanism A includes a loading motor 60 and a second transmission mechanism that transmits the rotation of the loading motor 60 to a slider 70 as a conveying roller operating member. Figure 9B As shown, a rack-shaped operated portion 72 extending in the front-to-back direction is formed inside the slider 70, and the operated portion 72 is engaged with the gear 61g. In this embodiment, the gears 61a to 61c, 61f, and 61g correspond to the second transmission mechanism. As the gear 61g rotates and the gear 61 engages with the operated portion 72, the slider 70 moves forward or backward. Figure 2B and 7 As shown, at least a portion of the loading motor 60 is located in front of the gear 61g constituting the rear end of the second transmission mechanism. Note that the second transmission mechanism is not limited to gears and may include a belt or the like.

[0071] Furthermore, the conveying mechanism A includes a distribution mechanism that engages with each of the first transmission mechanism that transmits the rotation of the loading motor 60 to the conveying roller 20 and the second transmission mechanism that transmits the rotation of the loading motor 60 to the slider 70 serving as the conveying roller operating member, and the distribution mechanism distributes the rotation of the loading motor 60 to the first transmission mechanism and the second transmission mechanism. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the transmission path of the rotation of the loading motor 60 from becoming longer. In this embodiment, as Figure 8 As shown, the distributing mechanism includes an intermediate gear 61c, which is a member different from the gear 61a (worm gear) corresponding to the component directly attached to the loading motor 60. The gear 61c serving as the distributing mechanism meshes with a gear 61d included only in the first transmission mechanism and a gear 61f included only in the second transmission mechanism.

[0072] In addition, some components constituting the first transmission mechanism are arranged in a first direction relative to the distribution mechanism, while some components constituting the second transmission mechanism are arranged in a second direction opposite to the first direction relative to the distribution mechanism. Figure 8 As shown, gears 61d and 61e, which are included in the components that constitute the first transmission mechanism but not the second transmission mechanism, are arranged in front of gear 61c, which constitutes the distribution mechanism. Gears 61f and 61g, which are included in the components that constitute the second transmission mechanism but not the first transmission mechanism, are arranged behind gear 61c. Therefore, compared to a case where, for example, the components that constitute only the first transmission mechanism and the components that constitute only the second transmission mechanism are arranged in the same direction in front of the distribution mechanism, this embodiment allows the two transmission paths of the first transmission mechanism and the second transmission mechanism to be shortened. This allows the optical disc drive 1 to be miniaturized as a whole and reduces torque loss caused by a longer transmission path.

[0073] like Figure 7As shown, the optical disc drive 1 includes a holder 62 that holds the first transmission mechanism, the second transmission mechanism, and the loading motor. The loading motor 60 is assembled in the holder 62, and the gears 61c to 61g are supported by the holder 62. Figure 2B and 7 As shown, the loading motor 60 and the gears 61a to 61g constituting the first and second transmission mechanisms are held by a holder 62 and are arranged at the inner left end of the generally box-shaped chassis 3. In this regard, the conveyor roller 20 is positioned in front of the loading motor 60, the gears 61a to 61g, and the holder 62. In other words, the conveyor roller 20 is positioned closer to the disc insertion port than the loading motor 60, the gears 61a to 61g, and the holder 62. Therefore, the disc is conveyed backward near the insertion port, facilitating its insertion.

[0074] Furthermore, the first and second transmission mechanisms are disposed within the chassis 3, while a slider 70, serving as a conveyor roller operating member, is disposed outside the chassis 3. The slider 70 is disposed to the left of the left side wall portion 32L of the generally box-shaped chassis 3, adjacent to the gears 61a to 61g across the left side wall portion 32L. By disposing the slider 60 outside the chassis 3 as described above, interference between the internal components of the chassis 3 and the slider 60 can be prevented when the slider 60 moves in the front-rear direction.

[0075] Figure 10A 、 Figure 11 、 Figure 12A It is a plan view showing a state where various components are arranged on the top frame 4 . Figure 10A The case where there is no disc in the optical disc drive 1 is depicted. Figure 11 This shows the situation where the optical disc O is placed (inserted) into the insertion port of the optical disc drive 1. Figure 12A The optical disc drive 1 is shown in the driving position. The conveyor roller driving mechanism for rotating the conveyor roller 20 includes a switch plate 15 and a switching arm 80 provided in the top chassis 4 in addition to the loading motor 60 and gears 61a to 61e (first transmission mechanism).

[0076] like Figure 10A As shown, the switch plate 15 is set at a position corresponding to the left end portion of the top frame 4 and the rear end portion of the top frame 4. The switch plate 15 includes a start switch 15a and a stop switch 15b described below, which are respectively arranged at the right end portion and the left end portion of the switch plate 15. The switch plate 15 is electrically connected to the loading motor 60 through wiring, etc. The start switch 15a and the stop switch 15b are configured to control the driving cycle of the loading motor (the cycle of driving the loading motor). More specifically, the start switch 15a and the stop switch 15b are configured to detect the position of the optical disc and control the rotation of the loading motor 60 according to the detected position of the optical disc. The start switch 15a is pressed to start the loading motor 60 (see Figure 11) rotation. In addition, when the stop switch 15b is pressed while the start switch 15a is pressed, the rotation of the loading motor 60 stops (see Figure 12A ).

[0077] like Figure 2A and 12A As shown, the loading motor 60 is provided at a position where the loading motor 60 overlaps the optical disc O placed at the position of the spindle motor 11, as viewed from the direction of the rotation axis (axis CB) of the spindle motor 11. Therefore, for example, compared with a case where the loading motor 60 is provided behind the optical disc O placed at the position of the spindle motor 11, this embodiment allows shortening the path of the first transmission mechanism along which the rotation of the loading motor 60 is transmitted to the transport roller 20. This makes it possible to reduce torque loss caused by the elongated transmission path for the rotation of the loading motor 60.

[0078] In addition, if Figure 12A As shown, the switch plate 15 is equipped with a start switch 15a and a stop switch 15b for controlling the driving cycle of the loading motor, and is located behind the optical disc O placed at the position of the spindle motor 11, as viewed in the direction of the rotation axis (axis CB) of the spindle motor 11. Therefore, for example, compared with the case where the switch plate 15 is disposed at a position where the switch plate 15 overlaps the optical disc O placed at the position of the spindle motor 11, the present embodiment allows the optical disc drive 1 to be miniaturized in the up-down direction.

[0079] The switching arm 80 also serves as a centering mechanism B for positioning the optical disc conveyed to the position of the spindle motor 11. In the present embodiment, a switching arm 80 is provided. The switching arm 80 is provided at a position corresponding to the right and rear sides of the top frame 4, and has a shape bent along the outer edge of the top frame 4. One end (front end portion) of the switching arm 80 extends to the insertion port of the optical disc, and the other end (rear end portion) of the switching arm 80 extends to the left and rear sides of the top frame 4. The switching arm 80 includes a supported portion 81 that is tubular and attached to the top frame 4. The switching arm 80 is capable of rotating around an axis (rotation center axis) extending through the center of the supported portion 81 in the up-down direction. As Figure 12A As shown, the rotation center axis of the switching arm 80 is set on the first plane (including Figure 12A The right side of the plane of line bb) and the second plane (including Figure 12AThe first plane extends in the front-to-back direction through the rotational axis (axis CB) of the spindle motor 11 at a position corresponding to the rear side of the switching arm 80 (a plane defined by line b'-b' in FIG1 ) (on the side opposite to the contact portion 82a described below), and the second plane is perpendicular to the first plane and extends through the rotational axis (axis CB) of the spindle motor 11. When the rotational axis of the switching arm 80 is positioned behind the spindle motor 11 as described above, the switching arm 80 can be provided with a certain length from the rotational axis to the front end, allowing the front end portion of the switching arm 80 to have a certain range of movement in the lateral direction.

[0080] like Figure 3 As shown, spring 85 is attached to switching arm 80. Figure 10A In the top view of the upper frame 4 shown, the spring 85 biases the switching arm 80 clockwise. In addition, the switching arm 80 includes a leaf spring portion 86 that contacts the internal structure of the upper frame 4.

[0081] The front end portion of the switching arm 80 reaches the area in front of the conveying roller 20 (formed in the opening 41R of the top frame 4) in the top frame 4. Figure 3 As shown, the switching arm 80 includes two contact portions 82a and 82b that protrude downward. The contact portion 82a is formed at the front end portion of the switching arm 80, and the contact portion 82b is formed between the contact portion 82a and the supported portion 81. In addition, openings 42a and 42b that extend obliquely relative to the lateral direction are formed on the right side of the top frame 4. The openings 42a and 42b are formed side by side in the front-to-back direction with the opening 41R therebetween. The contact portions 82a and 82b of the switching arm 80 pass through the opening portions 42a and 42b formed in the top frame 4 in the up-down direction. The top ends of the contact portions 82a and 82b each reach the transport path located in the bottom frame 3 and through which the optical disc passes.

[0082] The switch arm 80 includes a switch operating portion 83 formed at a rear end portion of the switch arm 80 to operate the start switch 15a and the stop switch 15b. The switch operating portion 83 is adjacent to the switch plate 15 in the lateral direction inside the top frame 4. Figure 10A As shown, when there is no optical disc O in the optical disc drive 1, the switch operating portion 83 pushes neither the start switch 15a nor the stop switch 15b. Figure 11 As shown, when an optical disc O is inserted into the insertion port of the optical disc drive 1, the edge of the optical disc O pushes the contact portion 82a to the right, causing the switching arm 80 to move counterclockwise relative to the rotation center axis (the center of the supported portion 81). The switch operating portion 83 thus pushes only the start switch 15a. As a result, the loading motor 60 begins to rotate, and the rotation is transmitted to the conveyor roller 20 via the first transmission mechanism (gears 61a to 61e). The conveyor roller 20 then rotates to convey the optical disc O placed on the conveyor roller 20 toward the position of the spindle motor 11.

[0083] Furthermore, when the optical disc O is transferred to the position of the spindle motor 11, the edge of the optical disc O pushes the contact portion 82b to the right. Consequently, the switching arm 80 further moves counterclockwise relative to the rotational center axis (the center of the supported portion 81), and the switch operating portion 83 pushes both the start switch 15a and the stop switch 15b. The rotation of the loading motor 60 then stops, and the rotation of the transfer roller 20, which is rotating via the first transmission mechanism, also stops. As described above, when the optical disc O is transferred to the position of the spindle motor 11, the rotation of the loading motor 60 stops, thereby reducing the power consumption of the optical disc drive 1.

[0084] The conveyor roller position control mechanism for moving the position of the conveyor roller 20 includes a rotating arm 90 (movable member) disposed on the top frame 4 in addition to the roller holder 50, the loading motor 60, the gears 61a to 61c, 61f and 61g (second transmission mechanism) and the slider 70. Figure 3 As shown, the rotating arm 90 includes a disc-shaped base 91, which is located inside the top frame 4, in front of the switch plate 15, and adjacent to the switch plate 15 in the front-to-back direction. The rotating arm 90 includes a tubular supported portion 92, which is located at the center of the base 91 and attached to the top frame 4. The rotating arm 90 rotates along the rotation center axis extending in the vertical direction at the center of the supported portion 92. A spring 96 is attached to the inner side of the rotating arm 90. In the top view of the top frame 4 ( Figure 10A ), the spring 96 biases the rotating arm 90 clockwise relative to the rotation center axis (the center of the supported portion 92).

[0085] Figure 13 80 and the rear side of the rotating arm 90. Figure 13 As shown, a contact portion 93 protruding downward is formed on the base 91 of the rotating arm 90 at a position away from the supported portion 92. Figure 3 As shown, an opening 43 extending in a horizontal arc shape is formed on the left side of the top frame 4. The contact portion 93 of the rotating arm 90 passes through the opening 43 of the top frame 4 in the vertical direction. The top end of the contact portion 93 reaches the transmission path located in the bottom frame 3 and through which the optical disc passes. Figure 13 As shown, the contact portion 93 of the rotating arm 90 is located behind the contact portions 82a, 82b of the switching arm 80. In other words, the contact portions 82a, 82b of the switching arm 80 are located in front of the contact portion 93 of the rotating arm 90.

[0086] The rotating arm 90 moves in response to the collision of the optical disc near the position of the spindle motor 11. Figure 11In the top view, in the process of transferring the optical disc O inserted into the insertion port of the optical disc drive 1 to the position of the spindle motor 11, the contact portion 93 formed on the rotating arm 90 is pushed to the left by the edge of the disc, thereby causing the rotating arm 90 to rotate counterclockwise relative to the rotation center axis (the center of the supported portion 92).

[0087] In addition, if Figure 3 As shown, the rotating arm 90 is provided with a groove portion 94 extending from an output edge portion of the rotating arm 90 (more specifically, a protrusion 98 described below) toward the supported portion 92. Figure 2B As shown, the slider 70 includes a cover portion 75 that covers a portion of the left side wall portion 32L of the bottom frame 3, and a shaft portion 76 extending in the vertical direction is formed at the right end of the cover portion 75. An opening 44 extending in the front-to-rear direction is formed on the left side of the top frame 4, and the shaft portion 76 of the slider 70 extends through the interior of this opening 44. In other words, the top end portion 76 of the shaft portion is disposed within the top frame 4.

[0088] like Figure 4 As shown, the shaft portion 76 formed on the slider 70 is fitted into the groove portion 94 formed on the rotating arm 90. In this state, the counterclockwise rotation of the rotating arm 90 moves the position of the groove portion 94 forward. At this point, the edge of the groove portion 94 pushes the shaft portion 76 forward, thereby also moving the slider 70 forward. When the slider 70 is in Figure 9A In the first sliding position shown, the rack-shaped operated portion 72 formed inside the slider 70 is not engaged with the gear 61g constituting the second transmission mechanism. At this point, the rotating arm 90 is rotated by the optical disc inserted into the optical disc drive 1, and the groove portion 94 of the rotating arm 90 pushes the shaft portion 76 of the slider 70 forward, causing the operated portion 72 inside the slider 70 to engage with the gear 61g. Subsequently, the slider 70 pushes the roller bracket 50 downward to place the conveyor roller 20 in the retracted position. As described above, the slider 70 begins to move during the process of conveying the optical disc to the position of the spindle motor 11, so that after the optical disc is placed on the spindle motor 11, the conveyor roller 20 can move to the retracted position.

[0089] <3. Centering mechanism>

[0090] Now, the configuration of the centering mechanism B that aligns the center position of the optical disc transported by the transport mechanism A with the center position (driving position) of the spindle motor 11 will be described. Figure 14 4 is a perspective view of the base frame 2 and the top frame 4. The centering mechanism B is realized by the base frame 2 and the switching arm 80 provided in the top frame 4.

[0091] like Figure 14As shown, the base frame 2 holding the spindle motor 11 is provided with a plurality of stoppers 26a and 26b, which contact the outer edge of the optical disc that has reached the position of the spindle motor 11 and restrict the backward movement of the optical disc. Each of the stoppers 26a and 26b is in the shape of a column extending upward from the upper surface of the base frame 2 and is formed integrally with the base frame 2. By integrally forming the stoppers 26a and 26b on the base frame holding the spindle motor 11, as described above, the position change of the stoppers 26a and 26b relative to the spindle motor 11 can be suppressed, thereby suppressing the misalignment between the center position of the optical disc and the drive position. In addition, as Figure 2A As shown, the two stoppers 26a and 26b are positioned away from each other in the direction of rotation of the optical disc. Alternatively, the two stoppers 26a and 26b may be integrally formed on the base frame 2 to which the spindle motor 11 is attached, or they may be fixedly positioned at predetermined positions relative to the spindle motor 11. By employing multiple stoppers 26a and 26b as described above, the center position of the optical disc can be stably positioned in the drive position. Note that the number of stoppers integrally formed on the base frame 2 may be one, three, or more.

[0092] In addition, the centering mechanism B includes a switching arm 80 serving as a biasing member, the switching arm 80 including contact portions 82a and 82b that contact the outer edge of the optical disc moving toward the position of the spindle motor 11. The switching arm 80 aligns the center of the optical disc with the position of the spindle motor 11 using the contact portions 82a and 82b. The switching arm 80 serves as a biasing member biased by a spring 85 so that the contact portion pushes the optical disc toward the stop portions 26a and 26b. The switching arm 80 and the contact portions 82a, 82b are used to allow the center position of the optical disc to be guided to a driving position corresponding to the rotation center of the spindle motor 11. In addition, since one switching arm 80 is provided in the present embodiment, the number of components of the optical disc drive 1 can be reduced compared to a case where a plurality of biasing components are provided.

[0093] like Figure 12A As shown, the contact portions 82a and 82b formed on the switching arm 80 are arranged on the side opposite to the stopper portions 26a and 26b across the optical disc that reaches the position of the spindle motor 11. The contact portions 82a and 82b are arranged on the first plane (including Figure 12A In this embodiment, the contact portions 82a and 82b are arranged only on the right side of the first plane. In addition, the contact portions 82a and 82b are arranged on the second plane (including Figure 12A The front side of the plane of line b'-b' in the figure).

[0094] In addition, if Figure 2A As shown, in the base frame 2, the stopper 26b is arranged on the first plane (including Figure 2AThe other side (the left side in this embodiment) of the plane of line bb in FIG, and each of the stopper portions 26a and 26b is arranged on the second plane (including Figure 12A When the contact portions 82a and 82b and the stoppers 26a and 26b are arranged as described above, the optical disc transferred to the position of the spindle motor 11 can be pushed in the front-to-back direction and the lateral direction, allowing the optical disc to be aligned in both directions.

[0095] As described above, during the process of transporting the optical disc to the position of the spindle motor 11, the rotating arm 90 rotates in response to the collision with the optical disc. In this regard, the rotating arm 90 includes a first protrusion 97a, which is a portion that engages with the switching arm 80. The first protrusion 97a protrudes upward and is provided at the end of an arm portion 91a extending from the base portion 91 formed in a disc shape. The groove portion 94 formed in the rotating arm 90, the arm portion 91a, and the second protrusion 97b described later are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the disc-shaped base portion 91.

[0096] like Figure 13 As shown, a groove portion 84 is formed on the lower surface of the rear end portion of the switching arm 80. The switching arm 80, which serves as a component constituting the centering mechanism B, is connected to the rotating arm 90 through the groove portion 84. Specifically, the centering mechanism B includes the switching arm 80, which serves as a component connected to the rotating arm 90, which serves as a movable component. The rotating arm 90 engages with the switching arm 80 via the first protrusion 97a. When the optical disc reaches the position of the spindle motor 11, the rotating arm 90 moves the switching arm 80 so that the contact portions 82a and 82b of the switching arm 80 move away from the optical disc. When the rotating arm 90 rotates in response to the collision with the optical disc, the first protrusion 97a of the rotating arm 90 is assembled in the groove portion 84 of the switching arm 80 to push the edge of the groove portion 84 forward, thereby moving the switching arm 80. Therefore, the switching arm 80 is moved in a direction opposite to the biasing direction of the spring 85 ( Figure 11 The contact portions 82a and 82b formed on the switching arm 80 move away from the optical disc placed at the position of the spindle motor 11 (at the driving position). Figure 12A As shown, with the optical disc O in the driving position, the contact portions 82a and 82b are placed away from the edge of the optical disc O. This avoids contact between the optical disc O placed in the driving position and the contact portions 82b and 82b, allowing smooth rotation of the optical disc O.

[0097] <4. Clamping mechanism>

[0098] Now, the clamping mechanism C for fixing the optical disc at the center position (at the driving position) of the spindle motor 11 will be described. Figure 3As shown, the clamping mechanism C includes a clamping pulley 12. The clamping pulley 12 is a component that fixes the optical disc on the spindle motor 11, and is capable of moving between a position where the clamping pulley 12 is located above the spindle motor 11 and away from the spindle motor (a first pulley position) and a position where the clamping pulley 12 is close to and holds the optical disc between the clamping pulley 12 and the spindle motor 11 (a second pulley position). The clamping pulley 12 includes a magnet 13 at the inner center portion of the clamping pulley 12. In addition, a fixing member 14 configured to fix the magnet 13 is attached to the inner side of the clamping pulley 12. The clamping pulley 12 is adsorbed to the inner side of the clamping pulley 12 by the magnetic force of the magnet 13.

[0099] Figure 10B and Figure 12B 1 and 2 are diagrams showing the operation of the clamping mechanism C. Figure 10B It is along Figure 10A A cross-sectional view taken along line bb. Figure 12B It is along Figure 12A A cross-sectional view taken along line bb. Figure 10A and 10B The clamping pulley 12 is shown placed in the first pulley position, Figure 12A and Figure 12B The clamp pulley 12 is positioned in a second pulley position, located below and in front of the first pulley position. When the clamp pulley 12 is in the second pulley position, a magnetic force is applied between the clamp pulley 12 and the spindle motor 11 to hold the optical disc therebetween. As a result, the optical disc rotates integrally with the spindle motor 11.

[0100] The clamping mechanism C includes a pulley position manipulation mechanism configured to manipulate the position of the clamping pulley 12. Figure 3 、 Figure 10A and Figure 12A As shown, the pulley position manipulation mechanism includes a first limiting arm 110 (manipulating arm) that engages with the clamping pulley 12 and moves the position of the clamping pulley 12. In addition, the first limiting arm 110 and the rotating arm 90 constituting the pulley position manipulation mechanism are arranged on a common support plate (top frame 4), and the rotating arm 90 is a movable member that rotates and moves the first limiting arm 110 in response to a collision with the optical disc. Inside the top frame 4, the first limiting arm 110 is arranged on the left side of the top frame 4 and in front of the rotating arm 90. Specifically, the first limiting arm 110 constituting the pulley position manipulation mechanism and the rotating arm 90 serving as a movable member are arranged across the above-mentioned first plane ( Figure 10A and Figure 12A As described above, by arranging the pulley position control mechanism on the side opposite to the switching arm 80 in the top frame 4, the internal space of the top frame 4 can be effectively utilized.

[0101] In addition, the second limiting arm 120 is provided at the center of the top frame 4. The second limiting arm 120 supports the outer periphery of the clamping pulley 12 together with the first limiting arm 110. Figure 3 As shown, an opening 45 is formed at the center of the top frame 4. A second limiting arm 120 is disposed inside the opening 45. The second limiting arm 120 includes shaft portions 121L and 121R disposed at the rear end thereof and arranged in the transverse direction. The second limiting arm 120 is rotatable in the vertical direction about an axis CE extending transversely through the centers of the shaft portions 121L and 121R. The second limiting arm 120 is biased upward by a spring (not shown).

[0102] The first limiting arm 110 includes a fan-shaped base 111 and a supported portion 112 located at the center of the fan-shaped base 111. The first limiting arm 110 can rotate around the axis CC (see FIG. Figure 10B and 12B ), the axis CC serves as a rotation center axis extending in the up-down direction through the center of the supported portion 112. In addition, a spring 116 is attached to the first limiting arm 110. The first limiting arm 110 is biased counterclockwise around the axis CC by the elastic force of the spring 116.

[0103] In addition, the clamping pulley 12 includes two flange portions 12a and 12b provided on the outer periphery of the clamping pulley 12 and protruding in the radial direction. The two flange portions 12a and 12b are spaced apart from each other in the up and down directions. The first and second limiting arms 110 and 120 respectively include support portions 113 and 122 that support the clamping pulley 12. Figure 10A As shown, the support portion 113 is formed at the end of the arm portion 111a extending outward from the fan-shaped base portion 111 of the first limiting arm 110, and the support portion 113 extends rearward from the end. The support portion 122 is formed on the second limiting arm 120 and is located between the shaft portions 121L and 121R in the transverse direction and in front of the axis CE. When the clamping pulley 12 is placed in the first pulley position, the support portions 113 and 122 are placed between the two flange portions 12a and 12b arranged in the vertical direction, as shown in FIG. Figure 10B As shown, the support portions 113 and 122 are thus captured by the flange portion 12a. The support portion 113 of the first limiting arm 110 is caught at the front end of the flange portion 12a, while the support portion 122 of the second limiting arm 120 is caught at the rear end of the flange portion 12a. Therefore, the support portions 113 and 122 support the clamping pulley 12 against gravity and the magnetic force of the magnet 13.

[0104] The rear end portion of the support portion 122 of the second limiting arm 120 is provided with a guide wall 122b protruding upward from the upper surface 122a of the support portion 122 and an inclined surface 122c extending forward and downward from the upper surface 122a. Figure 10BAs shown, when the clamping pulley 12 is in the first pulley position, the clamping pulley 12 is pushed backward by the support portion 113 of the first limiting arm 100, and the rear end edge of the flange portion 12a contacts the guide wall 122b. This can prevent the clamping pulley 12 from moving backward toward the support portion 122 and prevent the clamping pulley 12 from detaching from the support portions 113 and 122.

[0105] like Figure 10A As shown, the second limiting arm 120 includes a left arm portion 123L extending forward from the left side of the support portion 122 and a right arm portion 123R extending forward from the right side of the support portion 122. The left and right arm portions 123L and 123R are separated from each other in the lateral direction. The cutout portion 124 is formed between the left and right arm portions 123L and 123R and is open downward. The support portion 122 located behind the cutout portion 124 protrudes upward relative to the left and right arm portions 123L and 123R. The clamping pulley 12 is assembled between the left and right arm portions 123L and 123R (in the cutout portion 124). The diameter of the flange portions 12a, 12b formed on the clamping pulley 12 is larger than that of the cutout portion 124 (refer to FIG. Figure 3 ) in the width in the lateral direction, the flange portions 12a, 12b overlap on the left and right arm portions 123L and 123R in the up-down direction. This allows the clamping pulley 12 to be suppressed from falling off inside the cutout portion 124 formed in the second stopper arm 120.

[0106] In addition, if Figure 10A As shown, the first limiting arm 110 includes a protrusion 114 protruding outward from the fan-shaped base 111. The protrusion 114 overlaps the pressure-receiving portion 126 located at the front end of the left arm portion 123L of the second limiting arm 120, thereby pushing the pressure-receiving portion 126 downward. As described above, the protrusion 114 pushes the front end (pressure-receiving portion 126) of the second limiting arm 120 downward, thereby limiting the second limiting arm 120 from tilting upward due to the elastic force of the spring. Figure 10B As shown, when the clamping pulley 12 is located at the first pulley position, the second limiting arm 120 is placed along the horizontal plane (a plane perpendicular to the axis CB of the spindle motor 11) through the protrusion 114. In this case, as shown in FIG. Figure 10B As shown, the support portion 122 of the second limiting arm 120 is placed at a position (hereinafter referred to as a supporting position) where the support portion 122 supports the flange portion 12a of the clamping pulley 12, and the upper surface 122a of the support portion 122 is placed at a position along the horizontal surface.

[0107] In addition, the first limiting arm 110 protrudes outward from the fan-shaped base 111 and includes a recess 115 whose center is cut off. The arm portion 111a provided with the support portion 113, the protrusion 114 and the recess 115 is separated from each other in the rotation direction of the first limiting arm 110. Figure 12AAs shown, a first stopper arm 110, serving as a component constituting the clamp pulley operating mechanism, is coupled to the rotating arm 90 via a recess 115. In other words, the clamp pulley operating mechanism includes the first stopper arm 110, serving as a component coupled to the rotating arm 90, which serves as a movable member. More specifically, the recess 115 formed in the first stopper arm 110 corresponds to the shape of the second protrusion 97b formed on the rotating arm 90, and the first stopper arm 110 is directly coupled to the second protrusion 97b of the rotating arm 90 via the recess 115, interlocking with the rotating arm 90. When the slider 70 moves to the second sliding position to rotate the rotating arm 90 counterclockwise relative to the rotation center axis (the center of the supported portion 92), the recess 115 of the first stopper arm 110 engages with the second protrusion 97b of the rotating arm 90. The first stopper arm 110 also rotates clockwise about the axis CC, pulled by the second protrusion 97b. Therefore, the support portion 113 formed on the arm portion 111 a of the first limiting arm 110 moves forward and is removed from the flange portion 12 a of the clamping pulley 12 .

[0108] like Figure 13 As shown, the rotating arm 90 has a protrusion 98 protruding outward from the outer edge of the base 91. Figure 10A As shown, a protrusion 125 protruding leftward is formed on the left side surface of the left arm portion 123L of the second limiting arm 120. Figure 12A As shown, when the rotating arm 90 rotates counterclockwise, the protrusion 98 of the rotating arm 90 overlaps the protrusion 125 of the second limiting arm 120 to push the protrusion 125 downward. Therefore, the second limiting arm 120 located on the horizontal plane is further pushed downward and tilted downward relative to the horizontal plane. In this case, the support portion 122 of the second limiting arm 120 is placed Figure 12B In the position shown (hereinafter referred to as a release position), the upper surface 122a of the support portion 122 is located in a position in a direction inclined with respect to a horizontal plane.

[0109] like Figure 12BAs shown, when the support portion 122 is in the released position, the upper surface 122a of the support portion 122 is inclined relative to the horizontal plane, and the support portion 113 of the first limiting arm 110 is away from the flange portion 12a of the clamping pulley 12. Therefore, when the support portion 122 moves to the released position, the flange portion 12a moves from the upper surface 122a of the support portion 122 closer to the spindle motor 11, sliding on the inclined surface 122c located in front of the flange portion 12a. The flange portion 12a is thus positioned in the second pulley position where the flange portion 12a holds the optical disc between the flange portion 12a and the spindle motor 11. At this time, before the clamping pulley 12 is attracted to the spindle motor 11 by the magnetic force of the magnet 13, the flange portion 12a contacts the left and right arm portions 123L and 123R of the second limiting arm 120. This enables the impact generated when the clamp pulley 12 is attracted to the spindle motor 11 to be reduced, thereby suppressing the clamp pulley 12 from moving out of the second pulley position due to the impact.

[0110] In addition, the rotating arm 90 is Figure 12A The clockwise rotation in the state shown releases the engagement between the second protrusion 97b of the rotating arm 90 and the recess 115 of the first limiting arm 110, causing the first limiting arm 110 to rotate counterclockwise under the elastic force of the spring 116. Then, the support portion 113 of the first limiting arm 110 pushes the clamping pulley 12 placed at the second pulley position backward. The flange portion 12a of the clamping pulley 12 moves on the inclined surface 122c formed on the second limiting arm 12 and is placed on the support portion 122. As a result, the clamping pulley 12 is pushed upward from the second pulley position to the first pulley position located behind and above the second pulley position, so that the optical disc can be transferred (ejected) from the driving position to the outside of the insertion port. As described above, the support portion 122 of the second limiting arm 120 can be Figure 10B Support positions shown and Figure 12B Move between the release positions shown.

[0111] <5. Overall Movement>

[0112] The movement of the mechanism performed when the optical disc is inserted into the insertion port of the optical disc drive 1 will be described. Figure 11 As shown, in the top view of the top chassis 4, the contact portion 82a of the switching arm 80 is pushed rightward by the edge of the optical disk, causing the switching arm 80 to rotate counterclockwise relative to the rotation center axis (the center of the supported portion 81). The switch operating portion 83 formed at the rear end of the switching arm 80 pushes the start switch 15a of the switch plate 15. This starts the rotation of the loading motor 60, which is then driven by the first transmission mechanism (gears 61a to 61e) and the gear 24 (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 2B) rotates the transport roller 20. In this case, in addition to the gears 61a to 61e constituting the first transmission mechanism, the gears 61f and 61g constituting the second transmission mechanism also rotate. In the transport position, the transport roller 20 contacts the lower edge of the optical disc. Therefore, when the transport roller 20 constituting the transport mechanism A rotates, the optical disc is transported toward the spindle motor 11.

[0113] During the process of transferring the optical disc, the edge of the optical disc collides with the contact portion 93 (see FIG. Figure 13 ) contact, and in the top view of the top frame 4 ( Figure 11 ), the rotating arm 90 rotates counterclockwise. As a result, the pressure receiving portion 73 of the slider 70 engaged with the groove portion 94 of the rotating arm 90 is pushed forward, and the rack-shaped operated portion 72 (see Figure 9A ) is engaged with the gear 61g constituting the second transmission mechanism. Figure 9A In the embodiment, the gear 61g rotates clockwise by the rotation of the loading motor 60, so that the operated portion 72 engages with the gear 61g, thereby transferring the slider 70 to the second sliding position located in front of the first sliding position (see FIG. Figure 9B Then, the guide surface 71 formed at the front end of the slider 70 and the guided portion 54 formed at the left end of the roller bracket 50 (see Figure 4 ) contacts to push the roller bracket 50 downward. Therefore, the conveying roller 20 is placed in the retracted position below and away from the optical disc conveying path.

[0114] The switching arm 80 is biased by the elastic force of the spring 85 of the switching arm 80, and the contact portions 82a and 82b formed on the switching arm 80 push the transported optical disc to the position of the spindle motor 11, guiding the center position of the optical disc to the position (driving position) of the rotation axis (axis CB) of the spindle motor 11. In addition, the switch operating portion 83 formed at the rear end of the switching arm 80 pushes the stop switch 15b of the switch plate 15, thereby stopping the rotation of the loading motor 60 (see Figure 12A ).

[0115] At the same time, in the process of transferring the slider 70 to the second sliding position by the loading motor 60 and the second transmission mechanism (gears 61a to 61c and gears 61f and 61g), the rotating arm 90 engaged with the slider 70 via the groove portion 94 further rotates clockwise in the top view of the top frame 4. However, as Figure 12AAs shown, the second protrusion 97b of the rotating arm 90 engages with the recess 115 of the first limiting arm 110, and the first limiting arm 110 rotates clockwise. As a result, the support portion 113 of the first limiting arm 110 disengages from the flange portion 12a of the limiting pulley 12. In addition, the protrusion 98 of the rotating arm 90 pushes downward on the protrusion 125 of the second limiting arm 120, and the support portion 122 of the second limiting arm 120 tilts downward. As a result, the limiting pulley 12, which was supported in the first pulley position, is placed in the second pulley position, and a magnetic force is applied between the magnet 13 and the spindle motor 11 to hold the optical disc between the limiting pulley 12 and the spindle motor 11. This enables the optical disc to rotate integrally with the spindle motor 11.

[0116] Furthermore, when the optical disc reaches the position of the spindle motor 11, the first protrusion 97a formed on the rotating arm 90 pushes the groove 84 formed in the switching arm 80 (see FIG. Figure 13 ) to separate the contact portions 82a and 82b of the switching arm 80 from the optical disc. This allows smooth rotation of the optical disc to be achieved.

[0117] <6. Vibration Suppression Mechanism>

[0118] Finally, the vibration suppression mechanism D will be described. Figure 15 It is an exploded perspective view of the base frame 2. Figure 16A 5 is a bottom view of the bottom shell 5 constituting the outer shell. Figure 15 and 16A As shown, the vibration suppression mechanism D is implemented by a plurality (three in this embodiment) of first dampers 130 and a plurality (four in this embodiment) of second dampers 140. The first and second dampers 130 and 140 include an elastic body such as rubber.

[0119] like Figure 15 As shown, the first damper 130 has a dual structure, including a cylindrical outer tube portion 131 and a cylindrical inner tube portion 132 having a smaller diameter than the outer tube portion 131. The inner tube portion 132 is arranged at a center position 2 inside the outer tube portion 131. A plurality of (six in this embodiment) spoke portions are formed between the outer tube portion 131 and the inner tube portion 132. The spoke portions are arranged at regular intervals along the diameter of the outer edge portion 131 to connect the outer tube portion 131 and the inner tube portion 132. The spoke portions elastically bend between the outer tube portion 131 and the inner tube portion 132 to absorb vibration, thereby suppressing the transmission of vibration between the components attached to the outer tube portion 131 and the components attached to the inner tube portion 132.

[0120] As described above, the base frame 2 includes the spindle motor 11 and the optical elements corresponding to the optical pickup. The base frame 2 is housed in an inner housing including the bottom frame 3 and the top frame 4. The bottom frame 3 is in the shape of a box that opens upward and supports the conveying roller 20 that serves as the conveying mechanism A. The base frame 2 is disposed in the bottom frame 3. In this regard, the base frame 2 is fixed to the inner housing (bottom frame 3 and top frame 4) by the first damper 130. In this embodiment, the base frame 2 is fixed to the bottom frame 3 by the first damper 130.

[0121] Furthermore, the inner housing (bottom frame 3 and top frame 4) is secured to the outer housing (bottom case 5 and cover 6) that houses the inner housing via a second damper 140. As described above, the bottom case 5 is shaped like a box that opens upward, similar to the bottom frame 3, and the inner housing (bottom frame 3 and top frame 4) is secured to the bottom case 5. In this embodiment, the bottom frame 3 is secured to the bottom case 5 via the second damper 140.

[0122] In many cases, the center of gravity of an optical disc is slightly offset from its center position. Consequently, when the spindle motor 11 rotates the optical disc, the base frame 2 including the spindle motor 11 vibrates. In this regard, the first damper 130 and the second damper 140 are disposed in the inner and outer casings, respectively, thereby suppressing the vibration of the base frame 2 from being transmitted to the outer casing, effectively preventing the vibration from being transmitted to other external components.

[0123] like Figure 15 As shown, a plurality of first dampers 130 are mounted on a plurality of first damper attachment portions 27 formed on the outer periphery of base frame 2 and having a shape corresponding to the shape of the outer periphery of first dampers 130. In this regard, first damper attachment portions 27 are arcuate cutouts formed in base frame 2 and have a size sufficient to surround half or more of the outer periphery of first dampers 130. As described above, first dampers 130 are attached to the cutouts in the outer periphery of base frame 2, eliminating the need to provide space within base frame 2 for arranging first dampers 130. This avoids increasing the size of base frame 2.

[0124] Figure 2C It is along Figure 2A The cross-sectional view is taken along line cc in FIG. Figure 2C As shown, the first damper 130 includes a groove portion 131a provided in the outer surface of the outer tube portion 131 along the circumferential direction, and the first damper attachment portion 27 of the base frame 2 is fitted into the groove portion 131a. The groove portion 131a is provided in the portion that contacts the first damper attachment portion 27, that is, more than half of the outer circumference of the first damper 130. In addition, the base frame 3 includes a first protrusion 36 protruding upward from the base frame 3 (see Figure 1The first protrusion 36 is fixed to the first damper 130 by being inserted into the interior of the inner tube portion 132 of the first damper 130. The first protrusion 36 is tubular, has an opening at the upper end of the tube, and includes a rivet 135 inserted into the opening. This prevents the first damper 130 from falling off the first protrusion 36 of the chassis 3. In addition, since the first protrusion 36 includes an opening at its upper end, the rivet 135 can be inserted from above the chassis 3.

[0125] As described above, the first damper 130 is attached to the base frame 2 in the lateral direction and / or the front-to-back direction (in-plane direction), while the first damper 130 is attached to the bottom frame 3 in the up-down direction (vertical direction). The first damper 130 is attached so as to be elastically deformable relative to the base frame 2 in the in-plane direction, and the first damper 130 is attached so as to be elastically deformable relative to the bottom frame 3 in the vertical direction. This allows the vibration of the base frame 2 to be suppressed from being transmitted to the bottom frame 3 constituting the inner shell.

[0126] like Figure 1 As shown, the bottom case 5 includes a plurality of second damper attachment portions 56 to which the plurality of second dampers 140 are attached. In this embodiment, the second damper attachment portions 56 are formed as circular holes and are disposed within a circular recessed portion that is recessed upward toward the bottom frame 3. As described above, by forming the second damper attachment portions 56 within the recessed portion of the bottom case 5, the second dampers 140 can be restricted from protruding downward from the bottom case 5.

[0127] Figure 16B It is along Figure 16A The cross-sectional view taken along line bb in FIG. Figure 16B As shown, second damper 140 includes a groove 141a provided circumferentially on the outer surface of outer tube 141. The edge of the hole corresponding to second damper attachment portion 56 of bottom case 5 fits within groove 141a. Furthermore, the diameter of the portion of outer tube 141 below groove 141a is smaller than the diameter of the portion above groove 141a, and the outer edge of the lower end of outer tube 141 is inclined upward. The shape of outer tube 141 enables second damper 140 to be pushed into the hole corresponding to second damper attachment portion 56 of bottom case 5 from above.

[0128] In addition, if Figure 16BAs shown, the chassis 3 includes a second protrusion 37 protruding downward from the chassis 3. The second protrusion 37 is fixed to the second damper 140 by being inserted through the interior of the inner tube portion 142 of the second damper 140. The second protrusion 37 is tubular with an opening at the lower end of the tube and includes a rivet 145 inserted into the opening. This prevents the second damper 140 from falling off the second protrusion 37 of the chassis 3. Furthermore, since the second protrusion 37 includes an opening at its lower end, the rivet 145 can be inserted from below the chassis 3 and the bottom case 5.

[0129] As described above, the second damper 140 is attached to the bottom case 5 in the lateral and / or front-to-back directions (planar directions), while the second damper 140 is attached to the bottom frame 3 in the up-down direction (vertical direction). The second damper 140 is attached so as to be elastically deformable relative to the bottom case 5 in the planar directions, while the second damper 140 is attached so as to be elastically deformable relative to the bottom frame 3 in the vertical direction. This prevents vibrations from the inner shell, which includes the bottom frame 3, from being transmitted to the bottom case 5, which constitutes the outer shell. As described above, the first damper 130 and the second damper 140 are respectively disposed on the inner and outer sides of the bottom frame 3, thereby effectively preventing vibrations from the base frame 2 from being transmitted to the bottom case 5.

[0130] <7. Effect>

[0131] As described above, the optical disc drive 1 includes a gear 61c serving as a distribution mechanism that meshes with each of the gears 61a to 61e and each of the gears 61a to 61c, 61f, and 61g. The gears 61a to 61e serve as a first transmission mechanism that transmits the rotation of the loading motor 60 to the conveyor roller 20. The gears 61a to 61c, 61f, and 61g serve as a second transmission mechanism that transmits the rotation of the loading motor 60 to the slider 70 serving as the conveyor roller operating member. The distribution mechanism distributes the rotation of the loading motor 60 to the first transmission mechanism and the second transmission mechanism. As described above, the present embodiment is provided with a distribution mechanism that distributes the rotation of the loading motor 60 to two mechanisms. This can suppress an increase in the length of the transmission path for the rotation of the loading motor 60, thereby reducing torque loss during the transmission of the rotation, for example, compared to a case where separate paths are provided for the first transmission mechanism that transmits the rotation of the loading motor 60 to the conveyor roller 20 and the second transmission mechanism that transmits the rotation of the loading motor 60 to the conveyor roller operating member (slider 70).

[0132] Furthermore, the transport roller 20 includes a left roller 21L and a right roller 21R. A first end portion corresponding to one of the left end portion of the left roller 21L and the right end portion of the right roller 21R is capable of vertical movement relative to a second end portion corresponding to the other end portion, while maintaining the relative position between the axis CL and the axis CR. Therefore, even if the position of a disc inserted into the insertion port of the optical disc drive 1 is misaligned in the transverse direction, the left end portion of the left roller 21L or the right end portion of the right roller 21R can move vertically, allowing the disc to maintain contact with the left and right rollers 21L and 21R. Furthermore, compared to transport rollers in which the left and right rollers 21L and 21R move independently, the transport roller 20 has a simpler structure, which can reduce the number of components in the optical disc drive 1.

[0133] In addition, the switching arm 80 serving as a biasing member constituting the centering mechanism B pushes the optical disc that has reached the position of the spindle motor 11 toward the stop portions 26a and 26b using the contact portions 82a and 82b formed on the switching arm 80. Therefore, the center position of the optical disc can be aligned with the position (drive position) of the rotation center axis of the spindle motor 11. In addition, one switching arm 80 including the contact portions 82a and 82b is sufficient. Therefore, compared with, for example, a case where a plurality of biasing members are used to push the optical disc, the present embodiment can reduce the number of components of the optical disc drive 1.

[0134] Furthermore, the rotating arm 90 is a movable member that moves in response to a collision with an optical disc in a position close to the spindle motor 11, and constitutes a transport roller position manipulation mechanism that moves the position of the transport roller 20 via the slider 70 and the roller bracket 50. Then, at least one of the centering mechanism B and the clamping pulley operating mechanism includes a member coupled to the rotating arm 90 serving as the movable member. In the present embodiment, the centering mechanism B and the clamping pulley operating mechanism include a switching arm 80 and a first limiting arm 110, respectively, as members coupled to the rotating arm 90. As described above, the rotating arm 90 is shared by the transport roller position manipulation mechanism, the centering mechanism B, and the clamping pulley operating mechanism, and this structure can reduce the number of components of the optical disc drive 1 compared to a case where the rotating arm 90 is not shared.

[0135] Furthermore, the base frame 2 is secured to an inner housing comprising the bottom frame 3 and the top frame 4 via a first damper 130. The inner housing is secured to an outer housing comprising the bottom housing 5 and the cover 6. The outer housing accommodates the inner housing via a second damper 140. This allows for limiting the transmission of vibrations of the base frame 2 to the outer housing, effectively preventing the transmission of vibrations to other components disposed externally. Furthermore, compared to a case where a damper is formed in only one of the inner and outer housings, this embodiment eliminates the need to increase the size of the first or second damper 130 or 140, thereby avoiding an increase in the size of the optical disc drive 1. Furthermore, compared to a case where the second damper 140 is not provided in the outer housing, this embodiment enables miniaturization of the first damper 130, thereby reducing misalignment between the base frame 2 and the transport mechanism A supported by the base frame 3 when the optical disc drive 1 is placed vertically (when the optical disc drive 1 is placed with one of the left and right surfaces of the optical disc drive 1 positioned above the other).

[0136] <8. Modifications>

[0137] The present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned optical disc drive 1, and various modifications can be made to the present invention. For example, one aspect of the present invention may include a laterally symmetrical structure relative to the structure of the above-mentioned optical disc drive 1. In other words, the lateral positional relationship can be reversed. In this case, "left", "right", "clockwise" and "counterclockwise" in the description can be replaced by "right", "left", "counterclockwise" and "clockwise", respectively. For example, the loading motor 60, gears 24 and 61a to 61g, gear holder 62 and slider 70 arranged inside the base frame 3 can be arranged on the right side of the plane extending through the rotation center axis (axis CB) of the spindle motor 11 in the front-to-back direction. In addition, the movement in the up-down direction can also be restricted by the right shaft portion 52R of the roller bracket 50, and the movement in the up-down direction can be allowed by the left shaft portion 52L of the roller bracket 50. In addition, inside the top frame 4, the switch plate 15 and the first limiting arm can be arranged on the right side, and the switching arm 80 can be arranged on the left side. The contact portions 82 a and 82 b formed on the switching arm 80 may be arranged exclusively on the left side of a plane extending through the rotation center axis (axis CB) of the spindle motor 11 in the front-rear direction.

[0138] Furthermore, at least one of the centering mechanism B and the clamp pulley operating mechanism may include a member (a movable member constituting the transport roller position control mechanism) coupled to the rotating arm 90. This configuration can also reduce the number of components of the optical disc drive 1, compared to a case where the centering mechanism B and the clamp pulley operating mechanism do not share the rotating arm 90.

Claims

1. An optical disc drive, comprising: A component provided with an insertion port; a spindle motor, arranged behind and away from the insertion port; a conveying roller configured to be movable between a first roller position and a second roller position, wherein when the conveying roller is in the first roller position, the conveying roller contacts an optical disc inserted through the insertion port and conveys the optical disc toward the position of the spindle motor, and when the conveying roller is in the second roller position, the conveying roller does not contact the optical disc; a transfer roller operating member configured to be movable between a first operating member position and a second operating member position, wherein when the transfer roller operating member is in the first operating member position, the transfer roller operating member is configured to place the transfer roller in the first roller position, and when the transfer roller operating member is in the second operating member position, the transfer roller operating member is configured to place the transfer roller in the second roller position; Loading motor; a first transmission mechanism configured to transmit the rotation of the loading motor to the conveying roller; a second transmission mechanism configured to transmit the rotation of the loading motor to the conveying roller operating member; and A mechanism is configured to engage with each of the first transmission mechanism and the second transmission mechanism and distribute the rotation of the loading motor to the first transmission mechanism and the second transmission mechanism simultaneously.

2. The optical disc drive according to claim 1, wherein At least a portion of the loading motor is located in front of the rear end of the second transmission mechanism.

3. The optical disc drive according to claim 1, wherein At least a portion of the loading motor is located behind the front end of the first transmission mechanism.

4. The optical disc drive according to claim 1, wherein The conveying roller is arranged in front of the loading motor.

5. The optical disc drive according to claim 4, wherein The loading motor is provided at a position where the loading motor overlaps with the optical disc placed at the position of the spindle motor, as viewed from the rotation axis direction of the spindle motor.

6. The optical disc drive according to claim 1, wherein Also includes: The holder is configured to hold the first transmission mechanism, the second transmission mechanism, and the loading motor.

7. The optical disc drive according to claim 1, wherein Also includes: A switch plate on which switches configured to control the driving cycle of the loading motor are mounted, wherein The switch plate is located behind the optical disc at the position where the spindle motor is placed.

8. The optical disc drive according to claim 1, wherein The first transmission mechanism and the second transmission mechanism are arranged in the frame, and The conveying roller operating member is provided on the outer side of the frame.

9. The optical disc drive according to claim 1, wherein A component different from the component directly attached to the loading motor constitutes the dispensing mechanism.

10. The optical disc drive according to claim 1, wherein Some components constituting the first transmission mechanism are arranged in a first direction relative to the mechanism configured to distribute, and Some components constituting the second transmission mechanism are arranged in a second direction relative to the mechanism configured to dispense, the second direction being opposite to the first direction.

11. An electronic device comprising: An enclosure that houses the optical drive, which includes: A component provided with an insertion port; a spindle motor, arranged behind and away from the insertion port; a conveying roller configured to be movable between a first roller position and a second roller position, wherein when the conveying roller is in the first roller position, the conveying roller contacts an optical disc inserted through the insertion port and conveys the optical disc toward the position of the spindle motor, and when the conveying roller is in the second roller position, the conveying roller does not contact the optical disc; a transfer roller operating member configured to be movable between a first operating member position and a second operating member position, wherein when the transfer roller operating member is in the first operating member position, the transfer roller operating member is configured to place the transfer roller in the first roller position, and when the transfer roller operating member is in the second operating member position, the transfer roller operating member is configured to place the transfer roller in the second roller position; Loading motor; a first transmission mechanism configured to transmit the rotation of the loading motor to the conveying roller; a second transmission mechanism configured to transmit the rotation of the loading motor to the conveying roller operating member; and A mechanism is configured to engage with each of the first transmission mechanism and the second transmission mechanism and distribute the rotation of the loading motor to the first transmission mechanism and the second transmission mechanism simultaneously.

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