Imaging device

Abstract

An imaging device includes: an imaging section; a first metal side plate and a second metal side plate; an antenna; and a housing having an outlet thereon, wherein the housing includes a top cover disposed at a position higher than the first metal side plate in the vertical direction, wherein in a region downstream of the antenna along the discharge direction of recording material discharged from the outlet, the upper end of the first metal side plate is located at a position lower than the antenna in the vertical direction, and a resin support portion connected to the first metal side plate is disposed in the region such that the resin support portion supports the top cover, wherein the antenna and the resin support portion are disposed along the upper end of the first metal side plate.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] In recent years, to improve user-friendliness, imaging devices such as laser printers have commonly included wireless communication components, allowing users to instruct the imaging device on various operations such as printing and settings via wireless communication using external devices. In the wireless communication component, a wireless communication board (wireless module) including an antenna is set up independently of the control board. The control board is connected to the wireless communication board, and instructions from external devices are transmitted from the wireless communication board to the control board. In this transmission, the communication performance of the wireless communication is affected by the location of the wireless communication board within the imaging device and the presence of surrounding components.

[0003] As a structure to ensure good wireless communication performance, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-230567 discloses a device in which a control board is directly connected to a wireless communication board, and a recess is formed on the side plate so that the antenna does not overlap with the surface of the side plate of the frame. Summary of the Invention

[0004] However, in the device disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-230567, the metal frame is located at the front of the device relative to the wireless communication board, which may degrade the wireless communication performance at the front of the device. If the operation section and the paper ejection stack section are located at the front of the device and the user uses the device from the front, wireless communication with external devices typically occurs from the front of the device. In this case, a degraded wireless communication performance at the front of the device is particularly undesirable. On the other hand, if the wireless communication board is located at the front of the device to improve wireless communication performance, the distance between the control board located at the rear of the device and the wireless communication board increases. Therefore, the wired communication portion increases, making the device more susceptible to noise, which can degrade wireless communication performance in some cases. Furthermore, forming notches such as recesses in the frame reduces the rigidity of the device.

[0005] In view of the above, the object of the present invention is to provide an imaging device configured to perform wireless communication, which can ensure the rigidity of the device and also ensure good communication performance.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the imaging apparatus of the present invention includes:

[0007] An imaging portion, configured to form an image on a recording material;

[0008] A first metal side plate and a second metal side plate are configured to sandwich the imaging portion in the middle; an antenna is configured to communicate with an external device; and

[0009] A housing, wherein the housing is provided with an outlet for discharging recording material on which the image is formed by the imaging portion, wherein...

[0010] The housing includes a top cover, which is positioned vertically higher than the first metal side plate.

[0011] In the region downstream of the antenna along the discharge direction of the recording material exiting from the outlet, the upper end of the first metal side plate is located lower than the antenna in the vertical direction, and a resin support portion connected to the first metal side plate is disposed in this region, such that the resin support portion supports the top cover, wherein...

[0012] The antenna and the resin support portion are arranged along the upper end of the first metal side plate.

[0013] Furthermore, to achieve the above objectives, the imaging device of the present invention includes:

[0014] An imaging device, comprising:

[0015] An imaging portion, configured to form an image on a recording material;

[0016] The first and second metal side plates are configured to sandwich the imaging portion in the middle.

[0017] Antenna, the antenna being configured to communicate with external devices;

[0018] Housing, the imaging portion being disposed within the housing; and

[0019] A feed cassette, configured to store recording material, and configured to be inserted into or withdrawn from the housing, wherein...

[0020] The housing includes a top cover, which is positioned vertically higher than the first metal side plate.

[0021] In the region downstream of the antenna along the extraction direction of the feed box, the upper end of the first side plate is positioned lower than the antenna in the vertical direction, and a resin support portion connected to the first metal side plate is disposed in this region, such that the resin support portion supports the top cover.

[0022] The antenna and the resin support portion are arranged along the upper end of the first metal side plate.

[0023] Furthermore, to achieve the above objectives, the imaging device of the present invention includes:

[0024] An imaging portion, configured to form an image on a recording material;

[0025] The first and second metal side plates are configured to sandwich the imaging portion in the middle.

[0026] Antenna, the antenna being configured to communicate with external devices;

[0027] The operation part is constructed to be operated by the user; and

[0028] The imaging portion is disposed within the housing; wherein

[0029] The housing includes a top cover, which is positioned vertically higher than the first metal side plate.

[0030] When viewed along a direction perpendicular to the surface of the first metal side plate, the antenna and the operating portion are arranged horizontally. In the region where the operating portion is located horizontally relative to the antenna, the upper end of the first metal side plate is positioned lower than the antenna in the vertical direction, and a resin support portion connected to the first metal side plate is disposed in this region, such that the resin support portion supports the top cover.

[0031] The antenna and the resin support portion are arranged along the upper end of the first metal side plate.

[0032] According to the present invention, an imaging device configured to perform wireless communication can be provided, which can ensure the rigidity of the device and also ensure good communication performance.

[0033] Other features of the invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the imaging device according to Embodiment 1;

[0035] Figure 2A and Figure 2B This is a perspective view of the imaging device according to Embodiment 1;

[0036] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the interior of the imaging device according to Embodiment 1;

[0037] Figure 4 This is a left-side view of the interior of the imaging device according to Embodiment 1;

[0038] Figure 5 This is a top view of the interior of the imaging device according to Embodiment 1;

[0039] Figure 6 This is a top view of the imaging device according to Embodiment 1;

[0040] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the imaging device according to Embodiment 1;

[0041] Figure 8A and Figure 8B This is a perspective view of the imaging device according to Embodiment 2;

[0042] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the interior of the imaging device according to Embodiment 2;

[0043] Figure 10 This is a left-side view of the interior of the imaging device according to Embodiment 2;

[0044] Figure 11 This is a top view of the interior of the imaging device according to Embodiment 2;

[0045] Figure 12 This is a top view of the imaging device according to Embodiment 2;

[0046] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of the imaging device according to Embodiment 2;

[0047] Figure 14A and Figure 14B This is a perspective view of the imaging device according to Embodiment 3;

[0048] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of the interior of the imaging device according to Embodiment 3;

[0049] Figure 16 This is a left-side view of the interior of the imaging device according to Embodiment 3;

[0050] Figure 17 This is a left-side view of the interior of the imaging device according to Embodiment 3;

[0051] Figure 18 This is a top view of the interior of the imaging device according to Embodiment 3;

[0052] Figure 19 This is a top view of the imaging device according to Embodiment 3;

[0053] Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional view of the imaging device according to Embodiment 3;

[0054] Figure 21 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the imaging device according to Embodiment 4;

[0055] Figure 22 This is a perspective view of the imaging device according to Embodiment 4;

[0056] Figure 23 This is a perspective view of the interior of the imaging device according to Embodiment 4;

[0057] Figure 24 This is a left-side view of the interior of the imaging device according to Embodiment 4;

[0058] Figure 25 This is a top view of the interior of the imaging device according to Embodiment 4; and

[0059] Figure 26 This is a cross-sectional view of the imaging device according to Embodiment 4. Detailed Implementation

[0060] In the following description, embodiments (examples) of the present invention will be given with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative arrangements of the components described in the embodiments may be appropriately varied depending on the construction of the device to which the present invention is applied, various conditions, etc. Therefore, the dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative arrangements of the components described in the embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention to the following embodiments.

[0061] Example 1

[0062] In Example 1, the application of the present invention to a tandem (four-drum) color laser beam printer capable of forming full-color images using an electrophotographic system will be described. The application of the present invention is not limited thereto; it can also be applied to copiers, printers, etc., that use electrostatic recording systems or inkjet recording systems.

[0063] In the following description, directions are defined relative to a user using the imaging device 100. In other words, when using the imaging device 100, the front side (front face) of the imaging device 100 facing the user is "front," the rear side (back face) is "rear," the top side (top surface) is "up," and the bottom side (bottom surface) is "down." When viewing the imaging device 100 from the front side, the left side of the imaging device 100 is "left," and the right side is "right."

[0064] (1) Overall structure of imaging device 100

[0065] Figure 1This is a schematic cross-sectional view viewed from the left side, depicting the overall structure of an imaging apparatus 100 using electrophotographic recording technology according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The imaging apparatus 100 includes an imaging section and a fixing section supported by a metal frame 20. The imaging apparatus 100 includes four imaging sections generally arranged in a line, each imaging section forming an image of a different color: yellow (hereinafter referred to as Y), magenta (hereinafter referred to as M), cyan (hereinafter referred to as C), or black (hereinafter referred to as K). In this embodiment, the construction and operation of the various imaging sections are substantially the same, except for the different colors of the images to be formed. Therefore, unless a special distinction is required, the suffixes Y, M, C, or K attached to the reference numerals to indicate the color processed by the constituent elements are omitted in the following description.

[0066] Each imaging unit includes a photosensitive drum 62 (image carrier), a charging roller 63, a developing roller 64, and a toner container 65. The imaging unit may have a configuration that allows for integral removal from the device via a processing cartridge. When image information is received and imaging operation begins, the photosensitive drum 62 moves along... Figure 1 The direction of the arrow indicates rotation. First, the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 62 is uniformly charged by the charging roller 63. Based on the image information, the charged surface is irradiated by the laser beam 61 from the scanner unit 60 to form an electrostatic latent image. The latent image becomes visible through the developing roller 64, thereby forming a toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum. The toner image formed by each imaging portion is transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 57 (intermediate transfer member).

[0067] The intermediate transfer belt 57, which is an annular belt component, is stretched by the drive roller 55 and the driven roller 56 along the direction in which the imaging portions are arranged. The intermediate transfer belt 57 rotates along each imaging portion by the drive roller 55, which rotates according to the printing command. On the inner circumferential side of the intermediate transfer belt 57, the primary roller 66 is arranged to face the photosensitive drum 62, and the intermediate transfer belt 57 is pressed against the photosensitive drum 62 by the primary roller 66, and the toner image formed by each imaging portion is sequentially transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 57. With the further rotation of the intermediate transfer belt 57, the toner image transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 57 is conveyed to the transfer clamping part (the contact part that contacts the secondary transfer roller 54).

[0068] Before image formation, sheet-type recording material P stored in the feed cassette 51 located at the lower part of the imaging apparatus 100 is separated by the feed roller 52 and fed one by one from the feed cassette 51 to the blocking roller pair 53. The blocking roller pair 53 conveys the fed recording material P to the transfer clamping section between the intermediate transfer belt 57 and the secondary transfer roller 54. The secondary transfer roller 54 is positioned facing the drive roller 55, and the intermediate transfer belt 57 is located between the secondary transfer roller and the drive roller. Then, as the recording material P passes through the transfer clamping section, a bias voltage is applied to the secondary transfer roller 54 from a high-voltage power supply (not shown). As a result, the full-tone toner image is transferred a second time from the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 57 to the recording material P passing through the transfer clamping section.

[0069] The recording material P carrying toner is conveyed to the fixing section (image heating section). The fixing section includes a heating unit 70 and a pressure roller 71 disposed facing the heating unit 70. In the heating unit, a heater is disposed inside a flexible tubular film. The toner image is fixed to the recording material P by heating and pressurizing the conveyed recording material P in the fixing clamping section composed of the heating unit 70 and the pressure roller 71. Then, the recording material P is discharged from the imaging apparatus 100 by the discharge roller 72. Figure 1 (The arrows in the diagram indicate the direction of the discharge). In this embodiment, the user operates the device from the front, so the recording material P is discharged through the discharge port 80 located on the rear side of the device to the discharge paper stack portion 11e located on the front side of the device. In other words, the discharge direction of the recording material P is the same as the front-rear direction of the device; that is, the downstream side of the discharge direction is the front side, and the upstream side (the opposite direction of the discharge direction) is the rear side. The recording material P is discharged through the discharge port 80 located on the rear side of the device and stacked on the discharge paper stack portion 11e, which is located on the front side of the device at a position lower than the discharge port 80. Therefore, in this configuration, a user operating from the front of the device can easily collect the recording material P.

[0070] Figure 2A This is a perspective view of the imaging device 100 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, viewed from the front side. Figure 2BThis is a perspective view of the imaging device 100 as seen from the rear. The imaging device 100 is covered by a cover 10, which is a housing composed of multiple resin components. In Embodiment 1, the cover 10 consists of a top cover 11, a paper feed cover 12, a left cover 13, a right cover 14, a front door 15, a cartridge cover 16, and a rear door 17. The top cover (top cover) 11 covers the top surface of the device, and the printed recording material is stacked on the paper feed stack portion 11e of the top cover 11 via the discharge port 80 covered by the paper feed cover 12. An operation indicator portion 3 is provided on the top cover 11 as an operation section, which includes buttons for the user to instruct the printer's operation and a monitor for displaying the device's operating status. In the configuration of Embodiment 1, the user operates the device from the front; therefore, the operation indicator portion 3 is located on the front of the device, and the arrangement of the text to be displayed and the buttons is designed based on the assumption that the user operates the operation indicator portion 3 from the front. The front of the device is covered by the front door 15 and the cartridge cover 16.

[0071] The front door 15 is supported so that it can be opened from the imaging device 100, allowing replacement of consumables such as toner cartridges. A cover 16 is fixed to the feed cartridge 51 and is supported so that it can be integrally pulled out of the imaging device body with the feed cartridge 51. By pulling the feed cartridge 51 out of the imaging device 100, the user can replace or replenish the recording material P. Embodiment 1 has a configuration that allows the user to operate the device from the front side, and the feed cartridge 51 can be pulled out towards the front side of the device. In other words, the insertion / extraction direction of the feed cartridge 51 is the same as the front-rear direction of the device, and the downstream side of the extraction direction of the feed cartridge 51 corresponds to the front side of the device. A left cover 13 covers the left side of the imaging device 100, wherein an external connector portion 13a is provided on the rear side of the device, through which external communication lines (e.g., USB, wireless LAN) can be connected. The external connector portion 13a of Embodiment 1 includes a USB connector and a LAN connector, but may also include other connectors. The right cover 14 covers the right side of the imaging device 100, with a power connector portion 14a located at the rear of the device. The rear door 17 is supported so that it can be opened from the imaging device 100 to clear paper jams and replace consumables. The cover 10 may be composed of multiple components or may be a single integral part.

[0072] (2) Location and structure of wireless LAN module 30

[0073] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The positional relationship of the metal frame 20, the wireless LAN module 30, and the control board 31 according to Embodiment 1 is described. Figure 3This is a perspective view of the internal structure of the imaging apparatus 100 according to Embodiment 1, showing only the main components and omitting the cover 10. The frame 20 is vertically arranged and includes a left frame (first metal side plate) 21 and a right frame (second metal side plate) 22, which are a pair of side plates facing each other. The frame 20 also includes a front frame 23, a rear frame 24, and a lower frame 25 disposed between the left frame 21 and the right frame 22. The front frame 23, rear frame 24, and lower frame 25 are arranged along a direction orthogonal to the surfaces of the left frame 21 and the right frame 22 to connect them. The left frame 21 and right frame 22 extend horizontally from one end (front end) of the apparatus to the other end (rear end) along the front-rear direction of the apparatus and are arranged to face each other across the imaging portion for forming an image and the discharge port 80 for discharging the recording material P to the outside. The construction of the frame for achieving the effects of the present invention is not limited to this construction and can be modified in various ways.

[0074] A control board 31 for controlling the operation of the imaging device 100 is mounted on the left frame 21. The control board 31 can be directly mounted on the left frame 21 or mounted via a metal plate. A wireless LAN module 30, serving as a wireless communication board, includes an antenna 30a and is held on the top cover 11. The wireless LAN module 30 receives predetermined instructions, such as printing and setting instructions, from external devices via wireless LAN communication. Instructions received by the wireless LAN module 30 are transmitted to the control board 31 via a flat cable 32 connected to a connector 31a. The control board 31 processes the external information received by the wireless LAN module 30 and transmits it to the transmitting section of the imaging device 100. The control board 31 includes an external connection connector 31b. For example, a Wi-Fi module can be used for the wireless LAN module. The positional relationship between the wireless LAN module 30 and other components, which are features of the invention, will be described later.

[0075] Figure 4 This is a left-side view of the internal structure of the imaging apparatus 100 according to Embodiment 1, where only the main components are shown and the cover 10 is omitted. To stack the recording material P discharged from the rear side of the apparatus to the front side onto the discharge paper stack portion 11e, the left frame 21 is formed such that the rear side of the apparatus, where the discharge port 80 is located, is at a higher position than the front side of the apparatus, where the discharge paper stack portion 11e is located. In other words, the front side of the left frame 21 extends obliquely, such that its height gradually decreases from the front side of the apparatus to the rear side, and the rear side of the left frame 21 extends horizontally at a position higher in the vertical direction than the upper end of the oblique portion located on the front side of the left frame 21, and is located at the rear side in the horizontal direction. The right frame 22 is formed in the same manner as the left frame 21.

[0076] The positional relationship between the wireless LAN module 30 and the frame 20 according to Embodiment 1 will be described in detail. The wireless LAN module 30 is held on the top cover 11. The wireless LAN module 30 is arranged such that the upper end of the left frame 21 in the area relative to the wireless LAN module 30 on the front side of the device is located lower than the wireless LAN module 30 in the vertical direction. Other components constituting the frame 20, such as the right frame 22 and the front frame 23, are also located lower than the wireless LAN module 30 in the area on the front side of the device, similar to the left frame 21. In other words, as Figure 4 As shown by the dashed lines, the frame 20, located in the area at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 30, is positioned vertically lower than the wireless LAN module 30. This configuration prevents a reduction in communication performance at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 30 due to the use of the metal frame 20, thus ensuring good wireless communication performance. This configuration is particularly effective for imaging devices similar to Embodiment 1, based on the assumption that the user operates and communicates wirelessly from the front of the device. Furthermore, the wireless LAN module 30 is arranged such that the surface of the plate faces vertically, meaning that the height of the device does not become unnecessarily tall. Therefore, using this configuration, there is no need to increase the device size.

[0077] Next, the positional relationship between the wireless LAN module 30 and the control board 31 according to Embodiment 1 will be described in detail. The control board 31 is disposed on the rear side near the upper end of the left frame 21 and is connected to the wireless LAN module 30 via a flat cable 32 connected to the connector 31a. The control board 31 is configured to overlap with the metal left frame 21, thereby improving noise immunity. In this embodiment, the wireless LAN module 30 is disposed closer to the rear edge of the left frame 21 than to the front edge of the left frame 21, thus being disposed closer to the control board 31. Furthermore, the rear side of the left frame 21 in Embodiment 1 is formed to be higher than the front side, so the control board 31 can be disposed close to the wireless LAN module 30 even in the vertical direction. Since the shorter flat cable 32 can be used as the cable connection portion connecting the control board 31 and the wireless LAN module 30, the connection operation becomes easier. In addition, the shorter flat cable 32 increases noise immunity, which is also advantageous in terms of wireless communication performance.

[0078] As described above, to ensure good wireless communication performance of the antenna 30a included in the wireless LAN module 30, the left frame 21 is positioned lower than the wireless LAN module 30 in the area relative to the front of the device. The rear side of the left frame 21 is configured to be positioned higher than the front side of the device, and the wireless LAN module 30 and the control board 31 can be positioned close to each other because the control board 31, located at the rear of the device, is at a higher position. This configuration not only prevents degradation of wireless communication performance due to metal components but also prevents degradation of wireless communication performance due to the use of long cable connections.

[0079] (3) Supporting part of the upper cover 11

[0080] Reference Figures 5 to 7 The supporting portion of the upper cover 11 according to Embodiment 1 is described. Figure 5 This is a top view of the internal structure of the imaging device 100 according to Embodiment 1, showing only the main components and omitting the cover 10. To support the resin-made upper cover 11, the left frame 21 includes a support surface 21a and a fixing portion 21b, and the front frame 23 includes a support surface 23b. A similar support surface to the left frame 21 is also provided on the right frame 22. The support surface 21a is located at the rear of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 30, and the fixing portion 21b and support surface 23b are located at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 30.

[0081] Figure 6 This is a top view of the imaging device 100 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 7 yes Figure 6A cross-sectional view at point AA, showing only the main components of the imaging device 100 according to Embodiment 1. The top cover 11 holds the wireless LAN module 30 using a wireless LAN module holding portion 11d. The top cover 11 includes support portions 11a, 11b, and 11c made of resin and extending downward within the device, and is supported on the frame 20 by the support portions 11a, 11b, and 11c. In Embodiment 1, the support portions 11a, 11b, and 11c are integral with the top cover 11, but can also be fixed to the top cover 11 as separate components. The support portion 11a is located in the region relative to the wireless LAN module holding portion 11d on the rear side of the device and contacts the support surface 21a of the left frame 21. Furthermore, on the left frame 21, a support member 26 made of resin and including a fixing portion 26a and a support surface 26b is fixed by the fixing portion 21b, and the support portion 11b located on the front side of the device relative to the wireless LAN module holding portion 11d contacts the support surface 26b. The support member 26 includes an opening through which a flat cable passes and engages with the left frame 21 to support the top cover 11 and partially helps to hold the flat cable. Furthermore, the left frame 21 is connected to the front frame 23 via a connecting portion 21c, with the support portion 11c contacting the support surface 23b of the front frame 23. This configuration is identical on the right side of the device. In other words, the top cover 11 is directly supported by the left frame 21 and the right frame 22 or supported by other members. Because the top cover 11 is supported on the frame 20 by multiple support portions, the load is distributed, and the top cover 11 can be stably supported.

[0082] In the area located at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 30, the fixing portion 21b and the supporting surface 23b are positioned lower than the wireless LAN module 30, and the top cover 11 is supported by the frame 20 via the supporting portion. The supporting portions 11a, 11b, 11c and the supporting member 26 of the top cover 11 are made of resin, which suppresses the degradation of wireless communication performance compared to a metal frame positioned at the same height as the antenna 30a. In other words, since the fixing portion 21b and the supporting surface 23b, located at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 30, are both positioned lower than the wireless LAN module 30, good communication performance of the device can be maintained. Due to this construction, good communication performance can be ensured while the top cover 11 is supported by a metal frame.

[0083] In this embodiment, "front side of the device" refers to the downstream side in the discharge direction of the recording material P, the extraction side in the insertion / extraction direction of the feed cassette 51, or the side (second end side) where the operation indicator portion 3 is provided in the horizontally extending direction of the left frame 21. "Rear side of the device" refers to the side (first end side) where the control panel 31 is provided in the horizontally extending direction of the left frame 21. In other words, the device is constructed based on the assumption that the user performs each operation, such as collecting the recording material P, extracting the feed cassette 51, and operating the operation indicator portion 3, while facing the front side of the device. On the other hand, components that are not frequently operated (e.g., the control panel 31 with an external connection connector 31b) are provided on the rear side of the device.

[0084] Regarding wireless communication performance alone, for example, if the entire frame were made of resin, degradation in wireless communication performance could be suppressed. However, a resin frame is not as rigid as a metal frame and is not very reliable for supporting the imaging section and the outlet 80. One advantage of the construction of the present invention is that the use of a metal frame ensures the rigidity of the device while preventing degradation in wireless communication performance due to the use of metal components, thus guaranteeing good wireless communication performance. In other words, in the area located at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 30, the upper end of the frame 20 is positioned lower than the wireless LAN module 30, thereby providing an imaging device that ensures good communication performance while maintaining the rigidity of the device.

[0085] Example 2

[0086] Next, we will refer to Figure 8A and Figures 8B to 11 The construction of the imaging apparatus 200 according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention is described below. Components identical to those in Embodiment 1 are indicated by the same reference numerals and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0087] Figure 8A This is a perspective view of the imaging device 200 according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention, viewed from the front side. Figure 8BThis is a perspective view of the imaging device 200 as seen from the rear. The imaging device 200 is covered by a cover 210, which is an outer cover consisting of a top cover 211, a paper feed cover 12, a left cover 13, a right cover 14, a front door 15, a box cover 16, and a rear door 17, with the document reading section 18 positioned above the top cover 211. In the document reading section 18, the imaging device can read images, such as user-provided documents. The read images can be uploaded for printing or uploaded as electronic data. The top cover 211 covers the top side of the device, and the printed recording material is stacked on the paper discharge stack section 211e of the top cover 211 through the discharge port 80 covered by the paper feed cover 12. The top cover 211 also includes reading section support sections 211f and 211g located on its left and right sides to support the two ends of the document reading section 18.

[0088] Reference Figure 9 and Figure 10 The positional relationship of the metal frame 20, the wireless LAN module 30, and the control board 31 according to Embodiment 2 is described. Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the internal structure of the imaging device 200 according to Embodiment 2, showing only the main components and omitting the cover 210. Similar to Embodiment 1, the frame 20 consists of a left frame 21, a right frame 22, a front frame 23, a rear frame 24, and a lower frame 25, with the left frame 21 and right frame 22 connected via the front frame 23, lower frame 25, and rear frame 24. The wireless LAN module 30 is held on the upper cover 211 and connected to the control board 31 mounted on the left frame 21 via a flat cable 32.

[0089] The positional relationship between the wireless LAN module 30 and the frame 20 according to Embodiment 2 will be described in detail. Figure 10 This is a left-side view of the internal structure of the imaging device 200 according to Embodiment 2, where only the main components are shown and the cover 210 is omitted. The wireless LAN module 30 is held on the upper cover 211. The wireless LAN module 30 is arranged such that the upper end of the left frame 21 in the region relative to the wireless LAN module 30 on the front side of the device is located lower than the wireless LAN module 30 in the vertical direction. Other components constituting the frame 20, such as the right frame 22 and the front frame 23, are also located lower than the wireless LAN module 30 in the region on the front side of the device, just like the left frame 21. In other words, as Figure 10As shown by the dashed lines, the frame 20, located in the area at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 30, is positioned vertically lower than the wireless LAN module 30. This configuration prevents a reduction in the communication performance of the wireless LAN module 30 at the front of the device due to the use of the metal frame 20, thus ensuring good wireless communication performance. This configuration is particularly effective for imaging devices similar to Embodiment 2 that are based on the assumption that the user operates and communicates wirelessly from the front of the device. Furthermore, to prevent interference between the wireless LAN module 30 and the readout portion support portion 211f, the wireless LAN module 30 according to Embodiment 2 is configured such that the surface of the plate is parallel to the surface of the left frame 21. In other words, the wireless LAN module 30 is disposed adjacent to the readout portion support portion 211f of the upper cover 211, and the components are arranged such that the size of the device does not become unnecessarily large. Therefore, if this configuration is used, there is no need to increase the size of the device.

[0090] Next, the positional relationship between the wireless LAN module 30 and the control board 31 according to Embodiment 2 will be described in detail. Similarly, in Embodiment 2, the control board 31 is positioned near the upper end of the left frame 21 on the rear side and is connected to the wireless LAN module 30 via a flat cable 32 connected to connector 31a. Since a shorter flat cable 32 can be used to connect the control board 31 and the wireless LAN module 30, the cable connection is simplified. Furthermore, the shorter cable connection increases noise immunity, thus this configuration is also advantageous in terms of wireless communication performance.

[0091] Reference Figures 11 to 13 The supporting portion of the upper cover 211 according to Embodiment 2 is described. Figure 11 This is a top view of the internal structure of the imaging device 200 according to Embodiment 2, showing only the main components and omitting the cover 210. To support the upper cover 211, the left frame 21 includes a support surface 21a and a fixing portion 21b, and the front frame 23 includes a support surface 23b. A similar support surface to the left frame 21 is also provided on the right frame 22. The support surface 21a is located at the rear of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 30, and the fixing portion 21b and the support surface 23b are located at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 30.

[0092] Figure 12 This is a top view of the imaging device 200 according to Embodiment 2. Figure 13 yes Figure 12A cross-sectional view at BB, showing only the main components of the imaging device 200 according to Embodiment 2. The top cover 211 holds the wireless LAN module 30 using a wireless LAN module holding portion 211d. The top cover 211 includes support portions 211a, 211b, and 211c made of resin and extending downwards within the device, and is supported on the frame 20 by the support portions 211a, 211b, and 211c, as in Embodiment 1. In other words, the top cover 211 is supported directly or by other components (e.g., support member 26) on the left frame 21 and right frame 22. In Embodiment 2, the support portions 211a, 211b, and 211c are integrally formed with the top cover 211, but can also be fixed to the top cover 211 as separate components. The top cover 211 of Embodiment 2 also includes reading portion support portions 211f and 211g, which support the document reading portion 18 arranged above it.

[0093] Similarly, in Embodiment 2, in the area located at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 30, the fixing portion 21b and the supporting surface 23b are positioned lower than the wireless LAN module 30, and the top cover 211 is supported by the frame 20 via the supporting portion. The supporting portions 211a, 211b, 211c and the supporting member 26 of the top cover 211 are made of resin, which suppresses the degradation of wireless communication performance compared to a metal frame positioned at the same height as the antenna 30a. In other words, since the fixing portion 21b and the supporting surface 23b located at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 30 are both positioned lower than the wireless LAN module 30, good communication performance of the device can be maintained. Due to this construction, good wireless communication performance can be ensured while the top cover 211 is supported by a metal frame.

[0094] With the above-described configuration, even in Embodiment 2, which includes the original document reading section 18, the upper end of the frame 20 can be positioned lower than the wireless LAN module 30 in the area located at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 30. In other words, an imaging device that ensures good communication performance can be provided while maintaining the rigidity of the device.

[0095] Example 3

[0096] Next, we will refer to Figure 14A and Figures 14B to 19 The construction of the imaging apparatus 300 according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention is described. Components identical to those in Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2 are indicated by the same reference numerals and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0097] Figure 14A This is a perspective view of the imaging device 300 according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention, viewed from the front side. Figure 14BThis is a perspective view of the imaging device 300 as seen from the rear. The imaging device 300 is covered by a cover 310, which is an outer cover consisting of a top cover 311, a paper feed cover 12, a left cover 13, a right cover 14, a front door 15, a tray cover 16, and a rear door 17. The top cover 311 covers the top side of the device, and the printed recording material is stacked on the paper feed stack portion 311e of the top cover 311 through the discharge port 80 covered by the paper feed cover 12. The top cover 311 includes a horizontal surface 311f and an inclined surface 311g. A power switch 2 and an operation indicator portion 3 are provided as operation portions on the inclined surface 311g located on the front side of the device. The user uses the power switch 2 (switch portion) to turn the power on / off and uses the operation indicator portion 3 to operate the printer. The operation indicator portion includes operation buttons that indicate printer operation and a monitor that displays the operating status of the device.

[0098] Reference Figures 15 to 17 The positional relationship of the frame 20, wireless LAN module 30, control board 31, power switch 2 and operation indication part 3 according to embodiment 3 is described. Figure 15 This is a perspective view of the internal structure of the imaging device 300 according to Embodiment 3, showing only the main components and omitting the cover 310. Similar to Embodiment 1, the frame 20 consists of a left frame 21, a right frame 22, a front frame 23, a rear frame 24, and a lower frame 25, with the left frame 21 and right frame 22 connected via the front frame 23, lower frame 25, and rear frame 24. The wireless LAN module 30 is held on the upper cover 211 and connected to the control board 31 mounted on the left frame 21 via a flat cable 32. In Embodiment 3, in addition to the control board 31, a middle control board 40 is mounted on the left frame 21. The middle control board 40 is connected to the control board 31 via a flat cable 41, to the power switch 2 via a flat cable 42, and to the operation indication section 3 via a flat cable 43. The type and route of the connecting cables are not limited to this configuration and can be modified in various ways.

[0099] The positional relationship between the wireless LAN module 30 and the frame 20 according to Embodiment 3 will be described in detail. Figure 16 This is a left-side view of the internal structure of the imaging device 300 according to Embodiment 3, showing only the main components, omitting the cover 310, and indicating the wireless LAN module 30 and the power switch 2. The wireless LAN module 30 is held on the upper cover 311. The wireless LAN module 30 is arranged such that the upper end of the left frame 21 in the area relative to the wireless LAN module 30 on the front side of the device is positioned lower in the vertical direction than the wireless LAN module 30. Other components constituting the frame 20, such as the right frame 22 and the front frame 23, are also positioned lower than the wireless LAN module 30 in the area on the front side of the device, similar to the left frame 21. In other words, as... Figure 16As shown by the dashed lines, the frame 20 in the region located at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 30 is positioned vertically below the wireless LAN module 30. This configuration prevents a reduction in communication performance at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 30 due to the use of the metal frame 20, thus ensuring good wireless communication performance. This configuration is particularly effective for imaging devices similar to those in Embodiment 3, which are based on the assumption that the user operates and communicates wirelessly from the front of the device.

[0100] Next, the positional relationship between the wireless LAN module 30 and the power switch 2 according to Embodiment 3 will be described in detail. In Embodiment 3, the power switch 2 is disposed in the area on the front side of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 30, and is located at a position lower than the wireless LAN module 30 in the vertical direction. In other words, this prevents a reduction in the communication performance of the wireless LAN module 30 on the front side of the device due to the presence of the power switch 2, which includes metal components. The power switch 2 is composed of components such as a switch pressing portion 2a, a switch plate 2b, a switch bracket 2c, and a switch connector 2d. At least the switch plate 2b and the switch connector 2d contain metal, so it is particularly important that these components are located at a position lower than the wireless LAN module 30.

[0101] Next, the positional relationship between the wireless LAN module 30 and the operation instruction section 3 according to Embodiment 3 will be described in detail. Figure 17 This is a left-side view of the internal structure of the imaging device 300 according to Embodiment 3, showing only the main components, omitting the cover 310, and indicating the wireless LAN module 30 and the operation indicator section 3. In Embodiment 3, the operation indicator section 3 is located in the area at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 30, and is positioned lower than the wireless LAN module 30 in the vertical direction. In other words, this prevents a reduction in communication performance at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 30 due to the presence of the operation indicator section 3, which includes metal components. Furthermore, the flat cable 43 connecting the operation indicator section 3 and the control board 31 is also positioned lower than the wireless LAN module 30 to prevent a reduction in wireless communication performance at the front of the device.

[0102] Next, the positional relationship between the wireless LAN module 30 and the control board 31 according to Embodiment 3 will be described in detail. Similarly, in Embodiment 3, the control board 31 is located on the rear side near the upper end of the left frame 21 and is connected to the wireless LAN module 30 via a flat cable 32 connected to connector 31a. Since a shorter flat cable 32 can be used to connect the control board 31 and the wireless LAN module 30, the operation of connecting the cable connection portion becomes easier. Furthermore, the shorter cable connection portion increases noise immunity, which is also advantageous in terms of wireless communication performance.

[0103] Reference Figures 18 to 20 The supporting portion of the upper cover 311 according to embodiment 3 is described. Figure 18 This is a top view of the internal structure of the imaging device 300 according to Embodiment 3, showing only the main components and omitting the cover 310. To support the upper cover 311, the left frame 21 includes a support surface 21a and a fixing portion 21b, and the front frame 23 includes a support surface 23b. A similar support surface to the left frame 21 is also provided on the right frame 22. The support surface 21a is located at the rear of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 30, and the fixing portion 21b and the support surface 23b are located at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 30.

[0104] Figure 19 This is a top view of the imaging device 300 according to Embodiment 3. Figure 20 yes Figure 19 A cross-sectional view of the internal structure at point C, showing only the main components of the imaging device 300 including the top cover 311 according to Embodiment 3. The top cover 311 holds the wireless LAN module 30 via a wireless LAN holding portion 311d. The top cover 311 includes support portions 311a and 311b made of resin and extending downward in the device, and is supported on the frame 20 by the support portions 311a and 311b, as in Embodiment 1. In other words, the top cover 311 is supported directly or by other components (e.g., support member 26) on the left frame 21 and the right frame 22.

[0105] Similarly, in Embodiment 3, in the area located at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 30, the fixing portion 21b and the supporting surface 23b are positioned lower than the wireless LAN module 30, and the top cover 311 is supported by the frame 20 via the supporting portion. The supporting portions 311a, 311b and the supporting member 26 of the top cover 311 are made of resin, which suppresses the degradation of wireless communication performance compared to a metal frame positioned at the same height as the antenna 30a. In other words, since the fixing portion 21b and the supporting surface 23b located at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 30 are both positioned lower than the wireless LAN module 30, good communication performance of the device can be maintained. Due to this construction, good wireless communication performance can be ensured while the top cover 311 is supported by a metal frame.

[0106] With the above configuration, in the area located at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 30, the frame 20, power switch 2, and operation indicator 3 can be positioned lower than the wireless LAN module 30. In other words, an imaging device that ensures good communication performance can be provided while maintaining the rigidity of the device.

[0107] Example 4

[0108] Next, we will refer to Figures 21 to 26 The structure of the imaging apparatus 400 according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention is described.

[0109] In Example 4, the application of the present invention to a monochrome laser beam printer capable of forming monochrome images using an electrophotographic system will be described. The application of the present invention is not limited thereto; it can also be applied to printers using color tandem recording systems as described in the above embodiments, as well as copiers and printers using electrostatic recording systems or inkjet recording systems.

[0110] Similarly, in Embodiment 4, the various directions are defined relative to the user using the imaging device 400. In other words, when using the imaging device 400, the front side (front face side) of the imaging device 400 facing the user is "front," the rear side (back side) is "rear," the top side (top surface side) is "up," and the bottom side (bottom surface side) is "down." When viewing the imaging device 400 from the front side, the left side of the imaging device 400 is "left," and the right side is "right."

[0111] (1) Overall structure of imaging device 400

[0112] Figure 21 This is a schematic cross-sectional view viewed from the left side, depicting the overall structure of the imaging device 400 according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. The imaging device 400 includes an imaging portion and a fixing portion supported by a metal frame 20, and forms a monochrome image.

[0113] The imaging section includes a photosensitive drum 462 (image carrier), a charging roller 463, a developing roller 464, and a toner container 465. The imaging section may have a processing cartridge that can be integrally detached from the device. When image information is received and imaging operation begins, the photosensitive drum 462 rotates. First, the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 462 is uniformly charged by the charging roller 463. Based on the image information, a laser beam from a laser scanner 405 is used to irradiate the charged surface to form an electrostatic latent image. The latent image becomes visible through the developing roller 464, thereby forming a toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum. Sheet-type recording material P stored in a feed cassette 451 located at the lower part of the imaging apparatus 400 before image formation is separated by the feed roller 452 and fed one by one from the feed cassette 451 to the blocking roller pair 453. The blocking roller pair 453 conveys the fed recording material P to the transfer clamping section between the transfer roller 455 and the photosensitive drum 462. Then, as the recording material P passes through the transfer clamp, a bias voltage is applied from the electrical unit 408 to the transfer roller 455. This transfers the monochrome toner image from the surface of the photosensitive drum 462 to the recording material P that is passing through the transfer clamp.

[0114] The recording material P carrying the toner is conveyed to the fixing section (image heating section). The fixing section includes a heating unit 470 and a pressure roller 471 disposed facing the heating unit 470. In the heating unit, a heater is disposed inside a flexible tubular film. Heat is used to fix the toner image onto the recording material P in the fixing clamping section formed by the heating unit 470 and the pressure roller 471. Then, the recording material P is discharged from the imaging device 400 to the discharge tray 419 through the discharge port 480 by the discharge roller 472. Figure 21 (The arrow R shown is in the direction of the arrow).

[0115] Figure 22 This is a perspective view of the imaging device 400 according to Embodiment 4, viewed from the front. The imaging device 400 is covered by a cover 410, which is a housing composed of multiple resin components. In Embodiment 4, the cover 410 consists of an upper cover 411, a left cover 413, a right cover 414, a front cover 412, a housing cover 416, a rear door 415, an inner cover 418, and an ejection tray 419. The upper cover (top cover) 411 covers at least a portion of the top surface of the device, and an operation indicator portion 403 is provided on the housing cover 416, which is an operation portion for the user to instruct the printer. The operation indicator portion 403 is located on the front side of the imaging device 400 and includes an operation button 403a for the user to instruct the printer and a monitor 403b for displaying the operating status of the device.

[0116] (2) Location and structure of wireless LAN module 430

[0117] Reference Figures 23 to 25 The positional relationship of the frame 420, wireless LAN module 430, control board 431 and operation instruction section 403 according to embodiment 4 is described. Figure 23 This is a perspective view of the internal structure of the imaging device 400 according to Embodiment 4, in which only the main components are shown, and the cover 410 is omitted. Figure 24 This is its left-side view. Figure 25This is its top view. Frame 420 is vertically arranged and includes a left frame 421 and a right frame 422, which are a pair of side panels facing each other. Frame 420 also includes a front frame 423, a rear frame 424, and a lower frame 425 disposed between the left frame 421 and the right frame 422. The front frame 423, rear frame 424, and lower frame 425 are arranged along a direction orthogonal to the surfaces of the left frame 421 and the right frame 422 to connect them. Frame 420 also includes a lower left frame 426 and a lower right frame 427 made of resin, with the lower left frame 426 supporting the left frame 421 and the lower right frame 427 supporting the right frame 422. In embodiment 4, in the front-rear direction, the right frame 422 is formed such that its rear upper surface 422a is positioned higher than its front upper surface 422b. In other words, on the rear side, where communication performance is not as important as on the front side, the height of frame 420 is increased to shorten the distance to the top cover 411, thereby providing more robust support for the top cover 411. The upper surface 421a (the upper end of the left frame 421) is located lower than the front upper surface 422b of the right frame 422.

[0118] The imaging device 400 according to Embodiment 4 further includes a support member 428 made of resin, which functions to support the wireless LAN module 430 and maintain the rigidity of the imaging device. The support member 428 is fixed to the upper surface 421a of the left frame 421. The wireless LAN module 430 is supported by the support member 428 and connected to a control board 431 mounted on the left frame 421 via a flat cable 432. The support member 428 is supported above the left frame 421. In other words, the upper surface 421a of the left frame 421 is located vertically lower than the wireless LAN module 430. Furthermore, the upper front surface 422b of the right frame 422, located at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 430, is also located vertically lower than the wireless LAN module 430. In other words, in the area located at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 430, the upper surface 421a of the left frame 421 and the rear upper surface 422a of the right frame 422 are both located at a lower position than the wireless LAN module 430, thus maintaining good communication performance of the device.

[0119] The operation indicator section 403 is located on the cover 416, which is situated on the front and lower sides of the device, and is connected to the control board 431 via a flat cable 443. In other words, the operation indicator section 403, located on the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 430, is positioned lower than the wireless LAN module 430. The type and route of each connection cable, as well as the structure of the frame, are not limited to the above-described structure and can be modified in various ways.

[0120] (3) Supporting part of the upper cover 411

[0121] Reference Figure 26 The supporting portion of the upper cover 411 according to embodiment 4 is described. Figure 26 This is a cross-sectional view of the internal structure of the imaging device 400 according to Embodiment 4, where only the main components are shown, and the cover 410 except for the top cover 411 is omitted. A support member 428 disposed near the left end of the imaging device 400 contacts the top cover 411 at the rear support portion 428a, the middle support portion 428b, and the front support portion 428c, and the left frame 421 supports the top cover 411 via the support member 428. In the region near the right end of the device, a support portion (not shown) extending downward from the top cover 411 contacts the front upper surface 422b and the rear upper surface 422a of the right frame 422. The top cover 411 is made of resin, and its support portion is also made of resin. Therefore, the top cover 411 is supported by the left frame 421 and the right frame 422 via the resin-made support portion.

[0122] Similarly, in embodiment 4, in the area located at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 430, the metal frame 420 is positioned lower than the wireless LAN module 430, and the top cover 411 is supported by the frame 420 via the support member 428. The top cover 411 and the support member 428 are made of resin, which suppresses the degradation of wireless communication performance compared to when the metal frame is positioned at the same height as the antenna 430a. In other words, because the frame 420, located at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 430, is positioned lower than the wireless LAN module 430, good communication performance of the device can be maintained. Due to this construction, good wireless communication performance can be ensured while the top cover 411 is supported by the metal frame.

[0123] With the above-described construction, even in Embodiment 4, which includes the support member 428, the frame 420 and the operation indication portion 403 can be positioned lower than the wireless LAN module 430 in the area located at the front of the device relative to the wireless LAN module 430. In other words, an imaging device that ensures good wireless communication performance can be provided while maintaining the rigidity of the device.

[0124] In the above embodiments, a wireless LAN module, particularly a Wi-Fi module, is described as an example of a wireless communication board. However, the invention is not limited thereto. Modules from other communication systems, such as Near Field Communication (NFC) or Bluetooth, can be used in the wireless communication board.

[0125] Although the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of the following claims should be interpreted in the broadest sense to cover all variations and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. An imaging device, comprising: An imaging portion, configured to form an image on a recording material; The first metal side plate and the second metal side plate are configured to sandwich the imaging portion in the middle; A wireless communication board, the wireless communication board including an antenna configured to communicate with an external device; as well as A housing, wherein a discharge port is provided for discharging recording material on which an image is formed by the imaging portion, wherein... The housing includes a top cover made of resin and positioned vertically above the first metal side plate. The top cover contacts the first and second metal side plates so as to be directly supported by them. In the region downstream of the antenna along the discharge direction of the recording material exiting from the outlet, the upper end of the first metal side plate is located lower than the antenna in the vertical direction, and a resin support portion connected to the first metal side plate is disposed in this region, such that the resin support portion supports the top cover, wherein... The antenna and the resin support portion are arranged along the upper end of the first metal side plate, and The wireless communication board is held on the top cover.

2. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein... The imaging device further includes a control board located upstream of the antenna in the discharge direction, the control board controlling the operation of the device according to instructions sent from the antenna.

3. The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein... The upper end of the first metal side plate in the region upstream of the antenna in the discharge direction is located at a position that is higher in the vertical direction than the upper end of the first metal side plate in the region downstream of the antenna in the discharge direction. The upper end of the control panel is located at a position that is higher in the vertical direction than the upper end of the first metal side plate in the downstream region.

4. The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein The control board includes an external connector that connects to external devices via a cable.

5. The imaging apparatus according to claim 4, wherein The external connectors include at least a USB connector or a LAN connector.

6. The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein The control board includes a connector that connects to the antenna via a cable, wherein The connector is located at a position that is higher in the vertical direction than the upper end of the first metal side plate in the region.

7. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein In the region located downstream of the antenna along the discharge direction, the upper end of the second metal side plate is positioned lower than the antenna in the vertical direction, wherein A resin support portion supporting the top cover and connected to the second metal side plate is disposed in the region.

8. An imaging device, comprising: An imaging portion, configured to form an image on a recording material; The first metal side plate and the second metal side plate are configured to sandwich the imaging portion in the middle; A wireless communication board, the wireless communication board including an antenna configured to communicate with an external device; The imaging portion is disposed within the housing; as well as A feed cassette, configured to store recording material, and configured to be inserted into or withdrawn from the housing, wherein... The housing includes a top cover made of resin and positioned vertically above the first metal side plate. The top cover contacts the first and second metal side plates so as to be directly supported by them. In the region downstream of the antenna along the extraction direction of the feed box, the upper end of the first metal side plate is positioned lower than the antenna in the vertical direction, and a resin support portion connected to the first metal side plate is disposed in this region, such that the resin support portion supports the top cover. The antenna and the resin support portion are arranged along the upper end of the first metal side plate, and The wireless communication board is held on the top cover.

9. The imaging apparatus according to claim 8, wherein The imaging device further includes a control board located upstream of the antenna in the extraction direction, the control board controlling the operation of the device according to instructions sent from the antenna.

10. The imaging apparatus according to claim 9, wherein The upper end of the first metal side plate in the region upstream of the antenna in the extraction direction is located at a position that is higher in the vertical direction than the upper end of the first metal side plate in the region downstream of the antenna in the extraction direction. The upper end of the control panel is located at a position that is higher in the vertical direction than the upper end of the first metal side plate in the downstream region.

11. The imaging apparatus according to claim 9, wherein The control board includes an external connector that connects to external devices via a cable.

12. The imaging apparatus according to claim 11, wherein The external connectors include at least a USB connector or a LAN connector.

13. The imaging apparatus according to claim 9, wherein The control board includes a connector that connects to the antenna via a cable, wherein The connector is located at a position that is higher in the vertical direction than the upper end of the first metal side plate in the region.

14. The imaging apparatus according to claim 8, wherein In the region located downstream of the antenna along the extraction direction, the upper end of the second metal side plate is positioned lower than the antenna in the vertical direction, wherein A resin support portion supporting the top cover and connected to the second metal side plate is disposed in the region.

15. An imaging device, comprising: An imaging portion, configured to form an image on a recording material; The first metal side plate and the second metal side plate are configured to sandwich the imaging portion in the middle; A wireless communication board, the wireless communication board including an antenna configured to communicate with an external device; The operation section is configured to be operated by a user; as well as The imaging portion is disposed within the housing; in The housing includes a top cover made of resin and positioned vertically above the first metal side plate. The top cover contacts the first and second metal side plates so as to be directly supported by them. When viewed along a direction perpendicular to the surface of the first metal side plate, the antenna and the operating portion are arranged horizontally. In the region where the operating portion is located horizontally relative to the antenna, the upper end of the first metal side plate is positioned lower than the antenna in the vertical direction, and a resin support portion connected to the first metal side plate is disposed in this region, such that the resin support portion supports the top cover. The antenna and the resin support portion are arranged along the upper end of the first metal side plate, and The wireless communication board is held on the top cover.

16. The imaging apparatus according to claim 15, wherein The operation section includes at least a switch section for turning the power of the device on / off, or an operation instruction section for indicating operation.

17. The imaging apparatus according to claim 15, wherein The imaging device further includes a control board located on the opposite side of the side of the antenna from which the operating portion is provided in the horizontal direction, and the control board controls the operation of the device according to instructions sent from the antenna.

18. The imaging apparatus according to claim 17, wherein The upper end of the first metal side plate in the region located on the opposite side of the side where the operating part is provided with the antenna in the horizontal direction is located at a position that is higher in the vertical direction than the upper end of the first metal side plate in the region where the operating part is provided with the antenna. The upper end of the control board is located at a position that is higher in the vertical direction than the upper end of the first metal side plate in the region on the side where the operating part is provided relative to the antenna.

19. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein The resin support portion is integrally formed with the top cover.

20. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein The antenna is held on the top cover.

21. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein The top cover includes a stacked portion on which recording material is stacked. The antenna is located closer to the first metal side plate than to the second metal side plate.

22. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein The antenna is positioned in the upstream region relative to the central portion of the first metal side plate in the discharge direction.

Images