Developer container and image forming apparatus

Abstract

The present application provides a developer storage container and an image forming apparatus, capable of reducing the number of molds used in manufacturing developer storage containers having non-interchangeable shapes. A developer storage container is detachably attached to any one of three or more attachment portions provided on an image forming apparatus that forms an image using a developer. The developer storage container includes a container main body and a shape forming member. The container main body has a side wall portion formed along an attachment direction to the image forming apparatus. The shape forming member is attached to the side wall portion in an attachment mode corresponding to any one of the three or more attachment portions, and forms a first non-interchangeable shape corresponding to the attachment portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a developer storage container that is detachable from an image forming apparatus, and an image forming apparatus having the developer storage container. Background Technology

[0002] Image forming apparatuses that use various developers, such as toners of multiple colors, to form images are known to the public. In such image forming apparatuses, a mounting part for assembling and disassembling a developer container, such as a toner container holding the developer, is provided according to the type of developer.

[0003] Furthermore, as a related technology, there is a known image forming apparatus in which a non-interchangeable shape is provided for each mounting portion, thereby preventing the developer storage container, which does not have a shape corresponding to the non-interchangeable shape of the mounting portion, from being mounted on the mounting portion.

[0004] However, in the image forming apparatus related to the aforementioned technology, the non-interchangeable shape on the developer container side is integrally formed on the container body of the developer container or on a component mounted on the container body. Therefore, it is necessary to prepare a mold for forming each non-interchangeable shape on the developer container side. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a developer container and an image forming apparatus that can reduce the number of molds used in the manufacture of a developer container with a non-interchangeable shape.

[0006] One aspect of the present invention provides a developer storage container, which is detachable from any one of three or more mounting portions provided in an image forming apparatus for forming an image using a developer, comprising: a container body having a sidewall portion formed along a mounting direction toward the image forming apparatus; and a shape forming member, which is mounted to the sidewall portion in a mounting manner corresponding to any one of the three or more mounting portions, forming a first non-interchangeable shape corresponding to that mounting portion.

[0007] Another aspect of the image forming apparatus of the present invention includes: the developer storage container; and three or more mounting portions having second non-interchangeable shapes that are different from each other. Furthermore, the first non-interchangeable shape is a shape corresponding to any one of the second non-interchangeable shapes.

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to reduce the number of molds used in the manufacture of developer storage containers having non-interchangeable shapes.

[0009] This specification is introduced by way of summarizing the concepts set forth in the following detailed description, with appropriate reference to the accompanying drawings. This specification is not intended to limit the essential and fundamental features of the subject matter recited in the claims, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the subject matter recited in the claims. Furthermore, the object recited in the claims is not limited to embodiments that address some or all of the shortcomings recounted in any part of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0011] Figure 2 This diagram illustrates the configuration of the image forming section of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 3 This diagram illustrates the configuration of the toner supply unit of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the toner container in the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the toner container in the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the toner container in the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the shape forming component of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the gate component of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the toner container in the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the mounting portion of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the mounting portion of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the mounting portion of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the installation state of the toner container of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 14 This diagram shows the toner container of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention in its uninstalled state.

[0024] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the toner container of an image forming apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the following embodiments are merely examples embodying the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0026] (Configuration of the image forming apparatus 100)

[0027] First, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described here. Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the image forming apparatus 100. Furthermore, Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the image forming unit 1.

[0028] Additionally, for ease of explanation, the image forming apparatus 100 is used in the following settings ( Figure 1 In the state shown, the vertical direction is defined as the up-down direction D1. Furthermore, Figure 1 The left side of the image forming apparatus 100 shown is defined as the front side (front face) in the front direction D2. Furthermore, the left-right direction D3 is defined with the front side of the image forming apparatus 100 in the aforementioned configuration state as a reference.

[0029] The image forming apparatus 100 is a color printer that uses a toner (an example of the developer of this invention) to form a color image or a black and white image based on image data on a sheet of paper. Furthermore, this invention can also be applied to fax machines, copiers, and digital multifunction printers, etc.

[0030] like Figure 1 As shown, the image forming apparatus 100 includes multiple image forming units 1 to 4, an intermediate transfer belt 5, an optical scanning device 6, a secondary transfer roller 7, a fixing device 8, a paper feed box 9, a transport channel 10, a cover component 11, a control unit 12, and a toner supply unit 13.

[0031] The image forming apparatus 100 is a so-called tandem type apparatus. The image forming units 1-4 rotate along the belt rotation direction D4 of the intermediate transfer belt 5 (see reference). Figure 1The toner images are arranged side by side. In image forming unit 1, a toner image corresponding to Y (yellow) is formed; in image forming unit 2, a toner image corresponding to M (magenta) is formed; in image forming unit 3, a toner image corresponding to C (cyan) is formed; and in image forming unit 4, a toner image corresponding to K (black) is formed.

[0032] like Figure 2 As shown, the image forming unit 1 includes a photosensitive drum 21, a charging device 22 corresponding to the photosensitive drum 21, a developing device 23, a primary transfer roller 24, and a cleaning device 25. Furthermore, image forming units 2 to 4 are configured similarly to image forming unit 1. Hereinafter, only the configuration of image forming unit 1 will be described.

[0033] The photosensitive drum 21 is an image carrier that holds the electrostatic latent image and the toner image. The photosensitive drum 21 is configured to rotate along the rotation direction D5 (see reference). Figure 2 Rotate.

[0034] The charging device 22 includes a charging roller 22A. Using the charging roller 22A, the charging device 22 charges the photosensitive drum 21 to a predetermined potential using power supplied by a power source (not shown). A laser beam based on image data is irradiated onto the surface of the photosensitive drum 21, which is charged by the charging device 22, by the optical scanning device 6. As a result, an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image data is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 21.

[0035] The developing apparatus 23 includes a developing roller 23A. Using the developing roller 23A, the developing apparatus 23 develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 21 using a toner. Furthermore, in the development of the electrostatic latent image by the developing apparatus 23, an additive such as a lubricant or abrasive is used along with the toner.

[0036] The primary transfer roller 24 transfers the toner image developed by the developing unit 23 onto the intermediate transfer belt 5.

[0037] The cleaning device 25 is positioned downstream of the primary transfer roller 24 in the rotation direction D5 of the photosensitive drum 21, and cleans the surface of the photosensitive drum 21. The cleaning device 25 includes a cleaning component 25A such as a cleaning roller or a cleaning scraper.

[0038] The intermediate transfer belt 5 travels above each of the photosensitive drums 21 provided in the image forming units 1 to 4, and sequentially transfers the toner images formed on each photosensitive drum 21 in an overlapping manner to the transferred parts.

[0039] The light scanning device 6 emits lasers based on image data toward the photosensitive drums 21 disposed in the image forming units 1 to 4.

[0040] The secondary transfer roller 7 transfers the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 5 onto the paper conveyed from the paper feed box 9 through the conveying channel 10.

[0041] The fixing device 8 fixes the toner image transferred onto the paper by the secondary transfer roller 7 onto the paper. The paper with the toner image fixed by the fixing device 8 is discharged onto the upper surface of the cover member 11 located at the top of the image forming apparatus 100.

[0042] Paper tray 9 stores paper that will be used to create images.

[0043] The transport channel 10 is a channel for moving paper from the paper feed cassette 9 to the upper surface of the cover component 11. The transport channel 10 is formed inside the frame of the image forming apparatus 100.

[0044] The cover member 11 covers the toner supply section 13. The cover member 11 is located on the upper side of the toner supply section 13. The cover member 11 also serves as a paper output tray for discharging paper after the image is formed by the image forming section 3. The front end of the cover member 11 is supported by a rotating shaft 11A extending in the left-right direction D3, allowing it to rotate. Thus, the user of the image forming apparatus 100 can open and close the cover member 11. The cover member 11 is replaced when mounted on the mounting sections 37-40 (see reference). Figure 1 Toner containers 31-34 (refer to) Figure 1 It opens and closes at certain times.

[0045] The control unit 12 provides unified control over the image forming apparatus 100. The control unit 12 includes a CPU, ROM, and RAM. The CPU is a processor that performs various arithmetic operations. The ROM is a non-volatile storage device that pre-stores information such as control programs for instructing the CPU to perform various operations. The RAM is a volatile or non-volatile storage device used as temporary memory (working area) for the various operations performed by the CPU. The CPU executes various control programs pre-stored in the ROM within the control unit 12. Therefore, the control unit 12 provides unified control over the image forming apparatus 100.

[0046] (Composition of the toner supply unit 13)

[0047] Next, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 3 The structure of the toner supply unit 13 will be explained here. Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the toner supply unit 13. Additionally, Figure 3 This indicates the toner container 34 (see reference). Figure 1 (The state after being removed from the installation section 40)

[0048] The toner supply unit 13 supplies toner to the developing apparatus 23 of the image forming units 1 to 4 respectively.

[0049] like Figure 1 and Figure 3As shown, the toner supply unit 13 includes toner containers 31-34 and container support 35.

[0050] Toner container 31 holds the Y (yellow) toner. Toner container 32 holds the M (magenta) toner. Toner container 33 holds the C (cyan) toner. Toner container 34 holds the K (black) toner. Figure 1 As shown, the dimension of the toner container 34 in the front-to-back direction D2 is larger than that of the toner containers 31-33 in the front-to-back direction D2. The toner containers 31-33 share a common structure, except that they contain different colors of toner and have different mounting methods for the shape-forming component 56. Hereinafter, the toner containers 31-33 will sometimes be collectively referred to as toner container 30.

[0051] The container support 35 supports the toner containers 31-34. (Example) Figure 3 As shown, the container support 35 includes mounting portions 37 to 40. The toner container 31 is detachably mounted to the mounting portion 37 (see reference). Figure 1 The toner container 32 is detachably mounted to the mounting section 38 (see reference). Figure 1 The toner container 33 is detachably mounted to the mounting section 39 (see reference). Figure 1 The toner container 34 is detachably mounted to the mounting section 40 (see reference). Figure 1 Hereinafter, the mounting portions 37 to 39 on which the toner container 30 is mounted will sometimes be collectively referred to as mounting portion 36. The toner container 30 is an example of the developer storage container of the present invention.

[0052] However, as a related technology, there is a known image forming apparatus in which a non-interchangeable shape is provided in the mounting section 36 for each mounting section 36, thereby preventing the installation of a toner container 30 that does not have a shape corresponding to the non-interchangeable shape of the mounting section 36 into the mounting section 36.

[0053] However, in the image forming apparatus related to the aforementioned technology, the non-interchangeable shape of the toner container 30 side is integrally formed on the container body 51 of the toner container 30 (see reference). Figure 4 (or a component mounted on the container body 51.) Therefore, for each non-interchangeable shape on the toner container 30 side, a mold used in molding that non-interchangeable shape needs to be prepared.

[0054] In contrast, in the image forming apparatus 100 of the embodiments of the present invention, as will be explained below, the number of molds used in the manufacture of the toner container 30 having a non-interchangeable shape can be reduced.

[0055] Specifically, in the image forming apparatus 100, a second non-interchangeable shape 36A (see reference) is provided in the mounting section 36, which is different for each mounting section 36. Figure 10 Furthermore, in the image forming apparatus 100, the first non-interchangeable shape 30A corresponding to the second non-interchangeable shape 36A (see reference) Figure 4 It is formed by a shape-forming component 56 that is mounted on the toner container 30 in a mounting manner corresponding to the second non-interchangeable shape 36A.

[0056] (Composition of toner container 30)

[0057] The following is for reference Figures 4-9 The configuration of the toner container 30 having a first non-interchangeable shape 30A will be described here. Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of the toner container 31. Furthermore, Figure 5 This is a left view showing the configuration of the toner container 31. Furthermore, Figure 6 This is a right view showing the configuration of the toner container 31. Furthermore, Figure 7 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the shape-forming component 56. Furthermore, Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the configuration of gate component 57. Furthermore, Figure 9 This is a bottom view showing the configuration of the rear ends of the three toner containers 30. Additionally, in Figure 8 In the middle, the opening 57A is represented by a dashed line.

[0058] like Figures 4-6 As shown, the toner container 30 includes a container body 51, multiple openings 52, a shape forming component 56, a gate component 57, and a rod component 58.

[0059] The main container (51) holds the colorant. Figure 4 As shown, the container body 51 is formed as a long quadrangular prism in a direction orthogonal to the mounting direction D6 in which the toner container 30 is mounted to the image forming apparatus 100. The mounting direction D6 is the vertical direction. A toner storage space for storing toner is formed inside the container body 51.

[0060] The container body 51 has a sidewall portion 51A formed along the mounting direction D6 toward the image forming apparatus 100. Furthermore, the container body 51 has a bottom portion forming a bottom surface facing downstream of the mounting direction D6, and an upper surface portion forming an upper surface facing upstream of the mounting direction D6. The sidewall portion 51A forms the front, back, right, and left sides of the container body 51, which are prism-shaped. The toner storage space is a space surrounded by the sidewall portion 51A, the bottom portion, and the upper surface portion.

[0061] Within the container body 51, the toner contained inside is conveyed along the long side of the container body 51 toward its rear end. Specifically, a conveying screw is provided inside the container body 51, which conveys the toner contained therein toward the rear end of the container body 51. The conveying screw has a relatively long axis of rotation along the long side (front-rear direction D2) of the container body 51. This axis of rotation is supported by a side wall portion 51A of the container body 51 and is rotatable. A driving force from a motor located on the main body side of the image forming apparatus 100 is transmitted to the conveying screw via a power transmission mechanism (not shown). The conveying screw rotates upon receiving the driving force from the motor transmitted via the power transmission mechanism. Thus, the toner contained inside the container body 51 is conveyed toward the rear end of the container body 51.

[0062] like Figure 9 As shown, a discharge port 51B with an downward opening is provided at the rear end of the bottom surface of the container body 51. The toner conveyed to the rear end of the container body 51 by the conveying screw is discharged from the discharge port 51B to the outside of the container body 51.

[0063] Multiple openings 52 are arranged circumferentially on the sidewall portion 51A. Here, the circumferential direction is a direction orthogonal to the mounting direction D6 and is along the outer surface of the sidewall portion 51A. The number of openings 52 is the same as the number of mounting portions 36. That is, the toner container 30 has three openings 52.

[0064] Specifically, such as Figure 5 As shown, opening 53 of the three openings 52 is located at the rear end of the left side surface of sidewall portion 51A. Furthermore, opening 54 of the three openings 52 is located adjacent to opening 53 on the rear side. Additionally, as... Figure 6 As shown, one of the three openings 52, the opening 55, is located at the rear end of the right side surface of the sidewall portion 51A.

[0065] The opening 52 protrudes from the side wall portion 51A toward the outside of the container body 51 and opens toward the mounting direction D6 (see reference). Figure 9 Therefore, compared to a structure where the opening 52 faces outwards towards the container body 51, it is unnecessary to provide an insertion part 61 for receiving the insertion opening 52 on the inner side of the container body 51 (see reference). Figure 7 The storage space provides additional storage space. Therefore, it is possible to avoid reducing the amount of toner that can be stored in the container body 51 due to the inclusion of this storage space.

[0066] Specifically, the opening 52 is formed into a flat cuboid shape along the outer surface of the sidewall 51A (see reference). Figure 4An opening is formed on the outer surface of the opening 52 on the downstream side facing the mounting direction D6 (see reference). Figure 9 The opening 52 and the outer surface of the side wall 51A together form the insertion portion 61 for housing the shape forming member 56 (see reference). Figure 7 Storage space.

[0067] The container body 51, which has multiple openings 52, is integrally formed from a resin material such as synthetic resin. In the image forming apparatus 100, a common container body 51 is used in the manufacture of the toner containers 31 to 33. That is, the container body 51 used in the manufacture of the toner containers 31 to 33 can be formed using a single mold.

[0068] By mounting the shape forming member 56 to the side wall portion 51A in a mounting manner corresponding to any one of the plurality of mounting portions 36, the shape forming member 56 forms a first non-interchangeable shape 30A corresponding to the mounting portion 36.

[0069] Specifically, such as Figure 7 As shown, the shape forming member 56 has an insertion portion 61. The insertion portion 61 is inserted into the opening portion 52. The shape forming member 56 is inserted into any one of the opening portions 52 via the insertion portion 61 and a portion other than the insertion portion 61 protrudes from the opening portion 52, forming any one first non-interchangeable shape 30A. That is, the shape forming member 56 is installed in a mounting manner that protrudes from any one of the opening portions 52 at the configuration position in the sidewall portion 51A, forming any one first non-interchangeable shape 30A.

[0070] For example, in the image forming apparatus 100, by mounting the shape forming member 56 on the opening 53, a second non-interchangeable shape 36A with the mounting portion 37 is formed (see reference). Figure 10 The first non-interchangeable shape 30A corresponds to the toner container 31 installed on the mounting part 37 (see reference 30A). Figure 3 In the shape forming component 56, the shape forming component 56 is installed in the opening 53 (see reference). Figure 9 ).

[0071] Furthermore, in the image forming apparatus 100, by mounting the shape forming member 56 on the opening 54, a second non-interchangeable shape 36A (see reference) is formed with the mounting portion 38. Figure 10 The first non-interchangeable shape 30A corresponds to the toner container 32 installed on the mounting part 38 (see reference 30A). Figure 3 In the shape forming component 56, the shape forming component 56 is installed in the opening 54 (see reference). Figure 9 ).

[0072] Furthermore, in the image forming apparatus 100, by mounting a shape forming member 56 on the opening 55, a second non-interchangeable shape 36A (see reference) is formed with the mounting portion 39. Figure 10 The first non-interchangeable shape 30A corresponds to the toner container 33 installed on the mounting part 39 (see reference 30A). Figure 3 In the shape forming component 56, the shape forming component 56 is installed in the opening 55 (see reference). Figure 9 ).

[0073] like Figure 7 As shown, the insertion portion 61 is formed into an elongated shape along the insertion direction D7. A hook-shaped engaging portion 61A is formed at the front end of the insertion portion 61 along the insertion direction D7. On the other hand, an engaging portion 64 (see reference) is provided in the opening portion 52, which is formed to engage with the engaging portion 61A. Figure 5 For example, the engaging portion 64 is a window formed on the outer surface of the cuboid-shaped opening 52 facing outwards from the container body 51. When the insert portion 61 is inserted into the opening 52, the engaging portion 61A engages with the engaging portion 64 via a snap-fit ​​mechanism. This prevents the shape-forming member 56, which is mounted on the opening 52, from being removed from the opening 52.

[0074] like Figure 7 As shown, a protrusion 61B is formed in the insertion portion 61 along the insertion direction D7. On the other hand, a guide groove 65 is provided in the opening portion 52 to guide the protrusion 61B along the insertion direction D7 (see reference). Figure 5 The guide groove 65 is formed on the outer surface of the opening 52 along the mounting direction D6. Guided by the guide groove 65 via the protrusion 61B, the shape forming member 56 mounted on the opening 52 is restricted from moving in a direction orthogonal to the extending direction of the guide groove 65.

[0075] like Figure 7 As shown, the shape forming member 56 has a support portion 62 and a protrusion 63. The support portion 62 supports the insertion direction D7 of the insertion portion 61 in the insertion portion 61 (refer to...). Figure 7 The rear end of the support portion 62. For example, the support portion 62 is formed as a flat plate along a plane orthogonal to the insertion direction D7. The protrusion 63 is provided in the support portion 62 separately from the insertion portion 61 in a direction orthogonal to the insertion direction D7, and protrudes upstream of the insertion direction D7. For example, the support portion 62 is formed as a generally cuboid. The protrusion 63 is the portion that protrudes from the opening portion 52 when the shape forming member 56 is installed in the opening portion 52.

[0076] The shape forming component 56 is integrally formed from a resin material such as synthetic resin. In the image forming apparatus 100, a common shape forming component 56 is used in the manufacture of toner containers 31 to 33. That is, the shape forming component 56 used in the manufacture of toner containers 31 to 33 can be formed by a single mold.

[0077] Gate component 57 is configured to open and close outlet 51B (see reference). Figure 9 ).

[0078] Specifically, such as Figure 8 As shown, the gate component 57 is a generally cylindrical component. The gate component 57 is disposed inside the container body 51 opposite to the outlet 51B.

[0079] like Figure 8 As shown, the gate component 57 has an opening 57A and a shaft hole 57B. The opening 57A is a counter-portion located on the outer periphery of the gate component 57, opposite to the outlet 51B. The opening 57A is formed to have a shape substantially the same as the outlet 51B. The shaft hole 57B is formed to allow the rotating shaft of the conveying screw to be inserted. The gate component 57 is supported by the rotating shaft inserted into the shaft hole 57B, allowing it to rotate around this rotating shaft. By rotating around this rotating shaft, the gate component 57 changes between an open state (where the opening 57A is opposite to the outlet 51B, i.e., the outlet 51B is open) and a closed state (where the opening 57A is not opposite to the outlet 51B, i.e., the outlet 51B is closed). Furthermore, in Figure 8 The gate component 57 in the closed state is shown in the figure.

[0080] The gate component 57 is directed by a force-applying component (not shown) in the direction of force D8 (refer to) for the state change from the closed state to the open state. Figure 8 Apply force. For example... Figure 8 As shown, the gate component 57 has a protrusion 57C that protrudes from the outer periphery.

[0081] The lever component 58 restricts the gate component 57, which is subjected to the force of the force-applying component, from the closed state to the open state. Specifically, the lever component 58 has Figure 8 The locking portion 58A is shown. The locking portion 58A restricts the change of state of the gate component 57 from the closed state to the open state by contacting the protrusion 57C of the gate component 57.

[0082] Furthermore, the lever member 58 is configured to operate in the opposite direction to the installation direction D6, thereby releasing the restriction on the state change of the gate member 57 based on the operation in this direction. Specifically, the lever member 58 has Figure 8 The contacted portion 58B is shown. The contacted portion 58B is integrally formed with the locking portion 58A. By pushing the contacted portion 58B in a direction opposite to the installation direction D6, the locking portion 58A is retracted upward from its contact position with the protrusion 57C. This releases the restriction of the locking portion 58A on the state changes of the gate component 57.

[0083] (Composition of mounting parts 37-39)

[0084] Next, refer to Figures 10-14 The structure of mounting sections 37 to 39 will be described here. Figure 10 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the container support 35. Furthermore, Figure 11 This is from the configuration of the container support portion 35. Figure 10 A three-dimensional diagram showing different perspectives. Furthermore, Figure 12 This is a top view showing the configuration of the container support 35. Furthermore, Figure 13 This diagram shows the installation state of the toner container 31 in the mounting section 37. Furthermore, Figure 14 This is a diagram showing the state (non-installation state) in which the installation of the toner container 32 onto the mounting portion 37 is hindered by the contact portion 73 and the shape forming member 56.

[0085] like Figures 10-12 As shown, the mounting part 37 includes an operation part 71, an opposing part 72, a contact part 73, and a contact part 74.

[0086] The operating unit 71 operates the lever member 58 of the toner container 30 according to the installation of the toner container 30 onto the mounting unit 37. Specifically, as Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the operating part 71 protrudes from the bottom of the mounting part 37 in a direction opposite to the mounting direction D6. When the toner container 30 is mounted on the mounting part 37, the operating part 71 is positioned opposite the contacted part 58B of the rod member 58 of the toner container 30.

[0087] During the installation of the toner container 30 onto the mounting portion 37, the operating portion 71 comes into contact with the contacted portion 58B, and the rod member 58 is pushed up in the opposite direction to the installation direction D6 (see reference). Figure 13 Therefore, according to the installation of the toner container 30 onto the mounting part 37, the gate component 57 of the toner container 30 changes from the closed state to the open state. Hereinafter, the state in which the gate component 57 changes from the closed state to the open state due to the user's installation action of the toner container 30 onto the mounting part 36 is referred to as the installation state of the toner container 30.

[0088] When a toner container 30 (toner container 32) with a shape-forming member 56 installed at the opening 54 is mounted on the mounting portion 37, the contact portion 73 contacts the shape-forming member 56 before the toner container 30 is in the mounted state, preventing the toner container 30 from being mounted onto the mounting portion 37 (see reference). Figure 14 Specifically, such as Figure 10 and Figure 11As shown, the contact portion 73 protrudes from the bottom of the mounting portion 37 in a direction opposite to the mounting direction D6. When the toner container 30 is mounted on the mounting portion 37, the contact portion 73 is positioned opposite the opening 54 of the toner container 30. The contact portion 73 is formed by protruding from the bottom of the mounting portion 37 with a length sufficient to contact the shape-forming member 56 mounted on the opening 54 before the operating portion 71 contacts the rod member 58 (see reference). Figure 14 ).

[0089] When a toner container 30 (toner container 33) with a shape-forming member 56 installed at the opening 55 is installed on the mounting portion 37, the contact portion 74 contacts the shape-forming member 56 before the toner container 30 reaches the installed state, preventing the toner container 30 from being installed on the mounting portion 37. Specifically, as Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the contact portion 74 protrudes from the bottom of the mounting portion 37 in a direction opposite to the mounting direction D6. When the toner container 30 is mounted on the mounting portion 37, the contact portion 74 is positioned opposite the opening 55 of the toner container 30. The contact portion 74 is positioned at the same height as the contact portion 73.

[0090] When a toner container 30 (toner container 31) with a shape-forming member 56 installed at the opening 53 is mounted on the mounting portion 37, the opposing portion 72 is opposite to the shape-forming member 56 of the toner container 30 mounted on the mounting portion 37 (see reference). Figure 13 Specifically, such as Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the opposing portion 72 is provided at a lower height than the contact portion 73. When the toner container 30 is mounted on the mounting portion 37, the opposing portion 72 is provided in a position opposite to the opening 53 of the toner container 30. The opposing portion 72 is configured not to contact the shape-forming member 56 mounted on the opening 53 before the operating portion 71 contacts the rod member 58.

[0091] In the mounting section 37, a second non-interchangeable shape 36A is formed by the opposing section 72, the contact section 73, and the contact section 74. In the mounting section 37 having the second non-interchangeable shape 36A, the mounting of a toner container 30 having a first non-interchangeable shape 30A corresponding to the second non-interchangeable shape 36A is permitted, but the mounting of a toner container 30 not having a first non-interchangeable shape 30A corresponding to the second non-interchangeable shape 36A is prevented.

[0092] like Figures 10-12 As shown, the mounting part 38 includes an operation part 81, a contact part 82, an opposing part 83, and a contact part 84.

[0093] Based on the installation of the toner container 30 onto the mounting section 38, the operating section 81 operates the rod member 58 of the toner container 30. Specifically, as... Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the operating part 81 protrudes from the bottom of the mounting part 38 in a direction opposite to the mounting direction D6. When the toner container 30 is mounted on the mounting part 38, the operating part 81 is positioned opposite the contacted part 58B of the rod member 58 of the toner container 30. The operating part 81 is positioned at the same height as the operating part 71.

[0094] When a toner container 30 (toner container 31) with a shape-forming member 56 installed at the opening 53 is installed in the mounting portion 38, the contact portion 82 contacts the shape-forming member 56 before the toner container 30 is in the installed state, preventing the toner container 30 from being installed in the mounting portion 38. Specifically, as Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the contact portion 82 protrudes from the bottom of the mounting portion 38 in a direction opposite to the mounting direction D6. When the toner container 30 is mounted on the mounting portion 38, the contact portion 82 is positioned opposite the opening 53 of the toner container 30. The contact portion 82 is positioned at the same height as the contact portion 73.

[0095] When a toner container 30 (toner container 33) with a shape-forming member 56 installed at the opening 55 is installed on the mounting portion 38, the contact portion 84 contacts the shape-forming member 56 before the toner container 30 is in the installed state, preventing the toner container 30 from being installed on the mounting portion 38. Specifically, as Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the contact portion 84 protrudes from the bottom of the mounting portion 38 in a direction opposite to the mounting direction D6. When the toner container 30 is mounted on the mounting portion 38, the contact portion 84 is positioned opposite the opening 55 of the toner container 30. The contact portion 84 is positioned at the same height as the contact portion 73.

[0096] When a toner container 30 (toner container 32) with a shape-forming member 56 installed at the opening 54 is mounted on the mounting portion 38, the opposing portion 83 is opposed to the shape-forming member 56 of the toner container 30 mounted on the mounting portion 38. Specifically, as Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the opposing portion 83 is provided at a lower height than the contact portion 73. When the toner container 30 is mounted on the mounting portion 38, the opposing portion 83 is provided in a position opposite to the opening 54 of the toner container 30. The opposing portion 83 is configured not to contact the shape-forming member 56 mounted on the opening 54 before the operating portion 81 contacts the rod member 58.

[0097] In the mounting section 38, a second non-interchangeable shape 36A is formed by the contact section 82, the opposing section 83, and the contact section 84. In the mounting section 38 having the second non-interchangeable shape 36A, the mounting of a toner container 30 having a first non-interchangeable shape 30A corresponding to the second non-interchangeable shape 36A is permitted, but the mounting of a toner container 30 not having a first non-interchangeable shape 30A corresponding to the second non-interchangeable shape 36A is prevented.

[0098] like Figures 10-12 As shown, the mounting part 39 includes an operation part 91, a contact part 92, a contact part 93, and an opposing part 94.

[0099] Based on the installation of the toner container 30 onto the mounting part 39, the operating part 91 operates the rod member 58 of the toner container 30. Specifically, as... Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the operating part 91 protrudes from the bottom of the mounting part 39 in a direction opposite to the mounting direction D6. When the toner container 30 is mounted on the mounting part 39, the operating part 91 is positioned opposite the contacted portion 58B of the rod member 58 of the toner container 30. The operating part 91 is positioned at the same height as the operating part 71.

[0100] When a toner container 30 (toner container 31) with a shape-forming member 56 installed at the opening 53 is installed on the mounting portion 39, the contact portion 92 contacts the shape-forming member 56 before the toner container 30 is in the installed state, preventing the toner container 30 from being installed on the mounting portion 39. Specifically, as Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the contact portion 92 protrudes from the bottom of the mounting portion 39 in a direction opposite to the mounting direction D6. When the toner container 30 is mounted on the mounting portion 39, the contact portion 92 is positioned opposite the opening 53 of the toner container 30. The contact portion 92 is positioned at the same height as the contact portion 73.

[0101] When a toner container 30 (toner container 32) with a shape-forming member 56 installed at the opening 54 is installed on the mounting portion 39, the contact portion 93 contacts the shape-forming member 56 before the toner container 30 is in the installed state, preventing the toner container 30 from being installed on the mounting portion 39. Specifically, as Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the contact portion 93 protrudes from the bottom of the mounting portion 39 in a direction opposite to the mounting direction D6. When the toner container 30 is mounted on the mounting portion 39, the contact portion 93 is positioned opposite the opening 54 of the toner container 30. The contact portion 93 is positioned at the same height as the contact portion 73.

[0102] When a toner container 30 (toner container 33) with a shape-forming member 56 installed at the opening 55 is mounted on the mounting portion 39, the opposing portion 94 is opposed to the shape-forming member 56 of the toner container 30 mounted on the mounting portion 39. Specifically, as Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the opposing portion 94 is provided at a lower height than the contact portion 73. When the toner container 30 is mounted on the mounting portion 39, the opposing portion 94 is provided in a position opposite to the opening 55 of the toner container 30. The opposing portion 94 is configured not to contact the shape-forming member 56 mounted on the opening 55 before the operating portion 91 contacts the rod member 58.

[0103] In the mounting section 39, a second non-interchangeable shape 36A is formed by contact section 92, contact section 93, and opposing section 94. In the mounting section 39 having the second non-interchangeable shape 36A, the mounting of a toner container 30 having a first non-interchangeable shape 30A corresponding to the second non-interchangeable shape 36A is permitted, but the mounting of a toner container 30 not having a first non-interchangeable shape 30A corresponding to the second non-interchangeable shape 36A is prevented.

[0104] Thus, in the image forming apparatus 100, the shape forming member 56 is mounted to the side wall portion 51A in a mounting manner corresponding to one of the three mounting portions 37, forming a first non-interchangeable shape 30A corresponding to that mounting portion 37. Therefore, using only the container body 51 and the shape forming member 56, three or more first non-interchangeable shapes 30A can be achieved. Consequently, in a configuration with three or more mounting portions 37, the number of molds used in manufacturing the toner container 30 with non-interchangeable shapes can be reduced.

[0105] Furthermore, the shape forming member 56 can also be inserted into any opening 52 via the insertion portion 61 in a first posture to form any first non-interchangeable shape 30A, and can be inserted in a second posture that is reversed from the first posture with the axis along the insertion direction D7 as the center to form a first non-interchangeable shape 30A different from the first non-interchangeable shape 30A. For example, in Figure 5 When the insertion posture of the insertion portion 61 of the shape forming member 56 shown is the first posture, such as Figure 15 As shown, the insertion part 61 can also be inserted into the opening part 53 in the second posture to form a first non-interchangeable shape 30A corresponding to the mounting part 38 or the mounting part 39. In this case, the opening part 54 or the opening part 55 may not be provided.

[0106] Furthermore, the shape forming member 56 can also form any first non-interchangeable shape 30A by inserting the insertion part 61 into any opening 52 in the first posture, and form a first non-interchangeable shape 30A in an image forming apparatus different from the image forming apparatus 100 by inserting it in the second posture.

[0107] Furthermore, if the shape forming member 56, which forms a first non-interchangeable shape 30A corresponding to the mounting portion 36, is not installed in the toner container 30 installed in the mounting portion 36, the control unit 12 can also restrict the operation of the image forming apparatus 100. For example, the control unit 12 can prohibit the execution of printing processing. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether the shape forming member 56 is installed based on the on / off state of a mechanical switch provided in the opposing portion 72 that is operated by the shape forming member 56 of the toner container 30 according to the installation of the toner container 30 to the mounting portion 37. In addition, the control unit 12 can also use a reflective or transmissive light sensor capable of detecting the shape forming member 56 opposite to the opposing portion 72 to determine whether the shape forming member 56 is installed.

[0108] Furthermore, the developer of the present invention can be ink. That is, the present invention is not limited to image forming apparatuses of the electrophotographic method, but can also be applied to image forming apparatuses of the inkjet method.

[0109] The scope of this invention is not limited to the foregoing, but is defined by the claims. Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope. Thus, all modifications that do not depart from the scope and limits of the claims, as well as content equivalent to the scope and limits of the claims, are included within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A developer accommodating container characterized by comprising: the developer accommodating container is detachable with respect to any one of three or more mounting portions provided in an image forming apparatus that forms an image using a developer, the developer accommodating container includes: a container main body having a side wall portion formed along a mounting direction to the image forming apparatus; a shape forming member that forms a first non-interchangeable shape corresponding to any one of the three or more mounting portions by being mounted to the side wall portion in a mounting manner corresponding to the mounting portion; and a plurality of opening portions arranged in the side wall portion along a circumferential direction of the side wall portion, the shape forming member includes: an insertion portion inserted into the opening portion; a support portion that supports a rear end portion of the insertion portion in an insertion direction of the insertion portion; and a protruding portion provided separately from the insertion portion in the support portion in a direction orthogonal to the insertion direction and protruding toward an upstream side of the insertion direction, any one of the first non-interchangeable shapes is formed by the insertion portion being inserted into any one of the opening portions in a first attitude, and a different first non-interchangeable shape from the first non-interchangeable shape is formed by being inserted in a second attitude that is inverted from the first attitude with an axis along the insertion direction as a center.

2. The developer accommodating container according to claim 1, characterized in that: the number of the opening portions is the same as the number of the mounting portions, the shape forming member forms any one of the first non-interchangeable shapes by the insertion portion being inserted into any one of the opening portions and a portion other than the insertion portion protruding from the opening portion.

3. The developer accommodating container according to claim 2, characterized in that: the opening portion protrudes from the side wall portion to an outside of the container main body and is open toward the mounting direction.

4. An image forming apparatus characterized by comprising: including: the developer accommodating container according to any one of claims 1 to 3; and the three or more mounting portions have second non-interchangeable shapes different from each other, the first non-interchangeable shape is a shape corresponding to any one of the second non-interchangeable shapes.

5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that: the image forming apparatus includes a control portion that restricts an operation of the image forming apparatus in a case where the shape forming member that forms the first non-interchangeable shape corresponding to the mounting portion is not mounted in the developer accommodating container mounted to the mounting portion.

Images