Box Unit

Abstract

A box unit includes: a first unit including a first supporting portion and a second supporting portion; and a second unit including a first supported portion, a second supported portion, and a storage member, the storage member including a storage contact and a contact arrangement surface on which the storage contact is arranged. The second unit rotates from a first position to a second position in a state where the first supported portion is supported by the first supporting portion and the second supported portion is supported by the second supporting portion so as to be positioned relative to the first unit. A normal direction of the contact arrangement surface faces a direction in which the storage contact is exposed. The normal direction faces a direction opposite to a direction in which the second unit is directed from the first position to the second position.

Description

[0001] This divisional application is a divisional application based on the Chinese patent application with application number 202011563890.9, application date December 25, 2020, and invention name “Box Unit”. Technical Field

[0002] The invention relates to a box unit. Background Art

[0003] In a laser beam printer and a copying machine serving as an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, a toner image is formed on a photosensitive drum, and the toner image is transferred onto a sheet serving as a recording material to form an image on the recording material.

[0004] In laser beam printers, in order to facilitate maintenance, a method is widely adopted in which some parts of an image forming apparatus are provided in a cartridge, and the cartridge is taken out from a main body of the apparatus for maintenance or replacement.

[0005] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2018-10243 discloses a box unit having: a photosensitive member unit having a photosensitive drum; a developing unit having a developing roller; and a colorant box for containing colorant, wherein the developing unit and the colorant box can be attached to the photosensitive member unit and can be detached from the photosensitive member unit.

[0006] A toner cartridge containing toner is detachably disposed in a process cartridge having a developing unit and a photosensitive member unit. The cartridge unit is constructed by integrating the process cartridge and the toner cartridge. On the other hand, the cartridge unit may include a storage member for storing information. An object of the present invention is to appropriately arrange the storage member when the toner cartridge includes the storage member. Summary of the invention

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, a box unit includes:

[0008] a first unit including a photosensitive drum, a developing roller, a first supporting portion, and a second supporting portion; and

[0009] a second unit configured to be attachable to and detachable from the first unit, the second unit including a first supported portion supported by the first supporting portion, a second supported portion supported by the second supporting portion, and a first storage member storing information, and the second unit is configured to supply a developer to the first unit, the first storage member including a first storage element, a first storage contact electrically connected to the first storage element, and a first contact arrangement surface on which the first storage contact is arranged,

[0010] wherein the second unit is configured to rotate from a first position to a second position in a state where the first supported portion is supported by the first supporting portion and the second supported portion is supported by the second supporting portion, so that the second unit is positioned relative to the first unit,

[0011] The second unit rotates from the first position to the second position so that the first supported portion and the second supported portion are the rotation center of the second unit, and

[0012] A normal direction of the first contact arrangement surface faces a direction in which the first memory contact is exposed, and the normal direction of the first contact arrangement surface faces a direction opposite to a direction in which the second unit is directed from the first position to the second position.

[0013] In order to achieve the above object, there is provided a box unit that can be attached to and detached from a device main body of an image forming device, the device main body including a positioning portion and a rotation restricting portion, the box unit comprising:

[0014] a first unit, the first unit comprising a photosensitive drum and a developing roller;

[0015] a second unit configured to be attachable to and detachable from the first unit, the second unit including a first storage member storing information, and the second unit configured to supply a developer to the first unit, the first storage member including a first storage element, a first storage contact electrically connected to the first storage element, and a first contact arrangement surface on which the first storage contact is arranged;

[0016] a positioned portion, the positioned portion being in contact with the positioning portion; and

[0017] a rotation restricted portion which contacts the rotation restricting portion and restricts rotation about the positioned portion,

[0018] wherein the first contact arrangement surface faces a direction opposite to a direction in which the rotation restricted portion is pressed against the rotation restricting portion.

[0019] Further features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments (with reference to the attached drawings). BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] Figure 1 is a sectional view of an image forming apparatus including the cartridge unit of the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 2is a sectional view of the developing unit of the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the developing unit of the first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of the developing unit of the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 5 is a sectional view of the process cartridge of the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 6 is a top view of the developing unit of the first embodiment.

[0026] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the process cartridge of the first embodiment.

[0027] Figure 8 is a partial perspective view of the photosensitive member unit of the first embodiment.

[0028] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the developing unit and the photosensitive member unit of the first embodiment.

[0029] Fig.10 is a top view showing the arrangement relationship between the photosensitive member unit and the developing unit of the first embodiment.

[0030] Fig.11 is a perspective view of the developing unit of the first embodiment as viewed from below.

[0031] Fig.12 is an exploded perspective view of the toner cartridge of the first embodiment.

[0032] Fig.13 is a perspective view of the toner cartridge of the first embodiment as viewed from below.

[0033] Fig.14 is a sectional view of the toner cartridge of the first embodiment.

[0034] Fig.15A is a perspective view of the toner cartridge and the process cartridge of the first embodiment.

[0035] Fig. 15B is a perspective view of the toner cartridge and the process cartridge of the first embodiment.

[0036] Fig. 15C is a perspective view of the toner cartridge and the process cartridge of the first embodiment.

[0037] Fig.16A and Fig. 16B 1 is a diagram illustrating the opening and closing operation of the receiving-side shutter of the developing unit of the first embodiment.

[0038] Fig.17A and Fig. 17B 1 is a diagram illustrating the opening and closing operation of the discharge-side shutter of the toner cartridge of the first embodiment.

[0039] 18A to 18C 2 is a diagram showing the operation of the lifting mechanism of the first embodiment.

[0040] FIG. 19A to FIG. 19C 2 is a diagram showing the operation of the lifting mechanism of the first embodiment.

[0041] Fig. 20 is a perspective view of the box unit of the first embodiment.

[0042] Fig.21 is a perspective view of the box unit of the first embodiment.

[0043] Fig. 22 is a side view of the box unit of the first embodiment.

[0044] FIG. 23A to FIG. 23D It is a schematic diagram showing the same direction and the opposite direction in the present invention.

[0045] Fig.24 is a perspective view of the box unit of the first embodiment.

[0046] Fig.25 is a side view of the box unit of the first embodiment.

[0047] Fig.26 is a perspective view of a box unit of the second embodiment.

[0048] Fig. 27 is a perspective view of a box unit of the second embodiment.

[0049] Fig.28 is a perspective view of a box unit of the third embodiment.

[0050] Fig.29 is a perspective view of a first main body memory contact and a box unit of a third embodiment.

[0051] Fig.30 is a perspective view of a box unit of a fourth embodiment.

[0052] Fig.31 is a front view of the box unit of the fourth embodiment in the attaching direction.

[0053] Fig.32 is a perspective view of the box unit of the fourth embodiment attached to the apparatus main body.

[0054] Fig.33 is a perspective view of a first main body memory contact and a box unit of a fourth embodiment.

[0055] Fig.34 is a perspective view of a box unit of the fifth embodiment.

[0056] Fig.35 is a perspective view of the box unit of the fifth embodiment attached to the apparatus main body.

[0057] Fig.36 is a cross-sectional view of the periphery of the first memory tag of the fifth embodiment.

[0058] Fig.37 is a perspective view of a toner cartridge of a sixth embodiment.

[0059] Fig.38 is a perspective view of a box unit of the sixth embodiment.

[0060] Fig.39 is a sectional view of a cartridge unit according to a sixth embodiment.

[0061] Fig.40 is a side view of the magazine unit of the sixth embodiment.

[0062] Fig.41 is a perspective view of a toner cartridge of a seventh embodiment.

[0063] Fig.42 is a perspective view of a box unit of the seventh embodiment.

[0064] Fig.43 is a sectional view of a cartridge unit according to the seventh embodiment.

[0065] Fig.44 is a perspective view of a box unit of the eighth embodiment.

[0066] Fig.45 is a sectional view of a cartridge unit according to a ninth embodiment.

[0067] Fig.46A and Fig.46B is a perspective view of a waste toner unit of a ninth embodiment.

[0068] Fig.47A and Fig.47B is an exploded perspective view of a waste toner unit of a ninth embodiment.

[0069] Fig.48 is an exploded perspective view of the process cartridge of the ninth embodiment.

[0070] Fig.49 is a perspective view of a box unit of the ninth embodiment.

[0071] Fig.50 is a perspective view of a box unit of the ninth embodiment.

[0072] Fig.51 is a sectional view of a cartridge unit according to a ninth embodiment.

[0073] Fig.52 is a sectional view of a cartridge unit according to a ninth embodiment.

[0074] Fig.53 is a sectional view of a cartridge unit according to a ninth embodiment.

[0075] Fig.54 is a sectional view of a cartridge unit according to a ninth embodiment.

[0076] Fig.55 is a top view of the cassette unit of the ninth embodiment.

[0077] Fig.56 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a magazine unit of a ninth embodiment.

[0078] Fig.57 is a perspective view of a box unit of a tenth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0079] The size, material, shape and relative position of the components described in the embodiments may be appropriately changed according to the configuration of the device to which the invention is applied and various conditions, and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention to the following embodiments.

[0080] First embodiment

[0081] The first embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate.

[0082] In the following description, directions are defined with a user who uses the imaging device 1 as a reference. That is, the front side of the imaging device 1 is defined as "front", the back side thereof is defined as "rear", the upper surface (top surface) side thereof is defined as "up", and the lower surface (bottom surface) side thereof is defined as "down". Furthermore, the left side of the imaging device 1 when viewed from the front side is defined as "left", and the right side thereof is defined as "right".

[0083] The directions of the process cartridge 5 and the toner cartridge 9 are also defined in the same manner as the imaging device 1, assuming that the process cartridge and the toner cartridge have the same posture as when the process cartridge and the toner cartridge are attached to the imaging device 1. The directions in the figure are defined by the arrows shown in the figure. The front-back direction, the up-down direction, and the left-right direction indicated by these arrows are directions orthogonal to each other. These directions indicate fixed directions in all the figures. The up-down direction is parallel to the vertical direction, and the left-right direction and the front-back direction are parallel to the horizontal direction.

[0084] In addition, the left-right direction is parallel to the rotation axis direction of the photosensitive drum 61 and the rotation axis direction of the developing roller 71. In addition, the developing unit 7 attached to and integrated with the photosensitive member unit 6 is referred to as a process cartridge 5. The insertion direction (attachment direction) S1 and the removal direction S2 when the process cartridge 5 is attached to the apparatus body 2 are parallel to the front-rear direction and orthogonal to the left-right direction and the up-down direction.

[0085] Furthermore, the process cartridge 5 as the first unit is provided with a detachable toner cartridge 9 which is a second unit for supplying toner to the developing unit 7. The process cartridge 5 to which the toner cartridge 9 is attached and integrated is referred to as a cartridge unit 10.

[0086] Overall structure of imaging equipment

[0087] Figure 1 1 is a cross-sectional view of the image forming apparatus 1 to which the box unit 10 is attached, and its cross section is parallel to the up-down direction and the front-rear direction. Figure 1 As shown, the imaging device 1 mainly includes a paper feeding part 3 for supplying paper S into the device body 2, an exposure device 4, a box unit 10 for transferring the colorant image to the paper S, and a fixing device 8 for heating and fixing the colorant image transferred to the paper S.

[0088] The paper feed section 3 is provided in the lower portion inside the apparatus body 2, and mainly includes a paper feed tray 31 and a paper feed mechanism 32. The paper S accommodated in the paper feed tray 31 is supplied toward the cassette unit 10 (between the photosensitive drum 61 and the transfer roller 63) by the paper feed mechanism 32.

[0089] The exposure device 4 is arranged in the upper part of the inside of the device body 2, and includes a laser emitting unit (not shown), a polygon mirror, a lens, a reflecting mirror, etc., which have no reference numerals. In this exposure device 4, a laser beam based on image data emitted from the laser emitting unit is scanned at a high speed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 61 to expose the surface of the photosensitive drum 61.

[0090] The cassette unit 10 is attachable to and detachable from the apparatus main body 2, and is arranged below the exposure apparatus 4. When the door (opening and closing member) 21 of the apparatus main body 2 is opened (by Figure 1 ), the box unit 10 is inserted into the accommodating portion 23 of the device body 2 from the opening formed in the device body 2 in the insertion direction S1, and the box unit 10 is attached to the device body 2. When the box unit 10 is detached from the device body 2, the box unit 10 is moved in the detachment direction S2 and taken out.

[0091] The box unit 10 has a process box 5 and a toner box 9. The box unit 10 is configured to be attachable to the device body 2 and detachable from the device body in a state where the toner box 9 is attached to the process box 5. The process box 5 mainly includes a photosensitive member unit 6 and a developing unit 7. The photosensitive member unit 6 mainly includes a photosensitive drum 61, a corona charging device 68, an exposure portion 69, a recovery roller 62, and a transfer roller 63. The developing unit 7 is configured to be detachably attached to the photosensitive member unit 6. Alternatively, the developing unit 7 can be integrated with the photosensitive member unit 6 and is replaceable. The developing unit 7 mainly includes a developing roller 71, a supply roller 72, a layer thickness control blade 73, a toner accommodating portion (developer accommodating portion) 74 accommodating toner (developer), and a first agitator 75A provided in the toner accommodating portion 74. In addition, the developing unit 7 can be configured to be detachable from the photosensitive member unit 6. In this case, the toner cartridge 9 is attachable to and detachable from the developing unit 7 in a state in which the photosensitive member unit 6 and the developing unit 7 are coupled to each other.

[0092] Imaging process

[0093] Next, an image forming process using the process cartridge 5 will be described. Figure 5 6 is a cross-sectional view of the process cartridge 5. During the execution of the image forming process, the photosensitive drum 61 is rotationally driven. The surface of the photosensitive drum 61 is first uniformly charged by the corona charging device 68 and then charged with the exposure device 4 (see Figure 1 ) is exposed to a laser beam corresponding to the image data emitted by the photosensitive drum 61, thereby forming an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image data on the photosensitive drum 61.

[0094] On the other hand, the toner in the toner containing portion 74 is stirred by the first agitator 75A and then supplied to the developing roller 71 via the supply roller 72. Then, the toner supplied to the developing roller 71 enters a position between the developing roller 71 and the layer thickness regulating blade 73, and is carried on the developing roller 71 as a thin layer having a constant thickness.

[0095] The toner carried on the developing roller 71 is supplied to the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 61. Therefore, the toner adheres to the electrostatic latent image and is visualized, and a toner image is formed on the photosensitive drum 61. Thereafter, the sheet S is conveyed between the photosensitive drum 61 and the transfer roller 63, and the toner image on the photosensitive drum 61 is transferred onto the sheet S.

[0096] like Figure 1As shown, the fixing device 8 is arranged behind the process cartridge 5, and mainly includes a heating roller 82 and a pressure roller 81. The sheet S to which the toner image is transferred passes through the fixing device 8, and at this time, the sheet S is heated and pressurized between the heating roller 82 and the pressure roller 81, and the toner image is fixed on the sheet S. The sheet S that has passed through the fixing device 8 is discharged onto the paper discharge tray 22.

[0097] The corona charging device 68 is a charging unit that charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 61 in a non-contact manner. The exposure portion 69 includes a light emitting diode serving as a light source and a light guide serving as a light guide member, and guides light emitted from the light emitting diode using the light guide, and irradiates the surface of the photosensitive drum 61 with the light. The current supplied to the light emitting diode is supplied from the device body 2. The charge on the surface of the photosensitive drum 61 is removed by irradiation with the light from the exposure portion 69. In addition, a predetermined voltage is applied to the recovery roller 62 from the device body 2, and foreign matter such as paper powder and contaminants and toner attached to the surface of the photosensitive drum 61 is collected.

[0098] Processing cartridge structure

[0099] Next, there will be described each unit of the process cartridge 5. The process cartridge 5 includes the photosensitive member unit 6 and the developing unit 7 as described above.

[0100] Structure of the developer unit

[0101] First, the configuration of the developing unit 7 will be described. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the developing unit 7, and is taken along Figure 3 Sectional view along line AA. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the developing unit 7. In addition, Figure 3 The section AA in is parallel to the up-down direction and the front-back direction. Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of the developing unit 7 . Figure 6 7 is a top view of the developing unit 7 , and shows a state in which the top surface of the housing 700 is removed for convenience of explanation. Fig.11 7 is a perspective view of the developing unit 7 as viewed from below. Figure 2 As shown, the developing roller 71 is rotatably supported on the rear side of the housing 700 .

[0102] like Figure 4 and Figure 6As shown, both ends of the developing roller 71, the supply roller 72, and the first agitator (first agitating member) 75A are rotatably supported by each of the left side wall 704 and the right side wall 705 of the housing 700. In addition, a developing coupling 710, a developing roller gear 711, a supply roller gear 712, a first agitator gear 713, and idler gears 715A and 715B are provided on the left side of the left side wall 704 of the housing 700. The developing roller gear 711 is fixed to the end portion of the developing roller 71, and the supply roller gear 712 is fixed to the end portion of the supply roller 72. In addition, the first agitator gear 713 is fixed to the agitating rod 78A (see Figure 5 ) end portion.

[0103] Furthermore, the developing unit 7 may be equipped with a toner cartridge 9 for supplying toner, and provided with a toner receiving portion 770 for receiving the toner supplied by the toner cartridge 9. Furthermore, the developing unit 7 is provided with a lifting mechanism 760 for holding and lifting the toner cartridge 9.

[0104] like Figure 3 As shown, the developing unit 7 is provided with an electric contact 720A serving as a first electric contact which is electrically connected to the developing roller 71 and is supplied with a voltage applied to the developing roller 71. In addition, the developing unit 7 is provided with an electric contact 720B serving as a second electric contact which is electrically connected to the supply roller 72 and is supplied with a voltage applied to the supply roller 72. These electric contacts are in contact with power supply contacts (not shown) provided on the apparatus main body 2, thereby supplying power to the developing roller 71 and the supply roller 72.

[0105] Next, we will refer to Figure 4 The driving structure of the developing unit 7 is described. Figure 1 ), the developing drive transmission member (not shown) provided in the apparatus body 2 moves rightward toward a position for engaging with the developing coupling 710. On the other hand, in conjunction with the opening of the door 21 ( Figure 1 ) in coordination with the operation of, the developing drive transmitting member moves leftward toward a position for releasing engagement with the developing coupling 710.

[0106] When the device body 2 is closing the door 21 of the device body 2 ( Figure 1) when operated thereafter, the driving force is transmitted (input) from the developing drive transmitting member to the developing coupling 710 serving as a driving force receiving member. Next, the developing roller 71 becomes rotatable via the developing roller gear 711 through the gear provided on the circumferential surface of the developing coupling 710, and the supply roller 72 becomes rotatable via the supply roller gear 712. The developing drive transmitting member is configured to allow the positional displacement of the developing coupling 710 within a predetermined range and transmit the driving force to the developing coupling 710. The side retaining member 719 attached to the housing 700 restricts the movement of the developing coupling 710, the developing roller gear 711 and the supply roller gear 712 in the direction of the rotation axis of the developing roller 71.

[0107] like Figure 5 As shown, the developing unit 7 has a first agitator 75A, and the first agitator 75A stirs the toner inside the toner containing portion 74. The first agitator 75A includes a stirring rod 78A and a stirring sheet 79A. In addition, the first agitator 75A is configured to be able to be moved by using a first agitator gear 713 (see Figure 6 ) receives driving force from the developing coupling 710 via the idler wheel 715A and rotates. The toner near the first agitator 75A inside the toner accommodating portion 74 is agitated by the first agitator 75A, then supplied to the supply roller 72 side, and further supplied to the developing roller 71 by the supply roller 72.

[0108] Structure of photosensitive member unit and support of developing unit

[0109] Next, the detailed configuration of the photosensitive member unit 6 will be described. Figure 7 is a perspective view of the process cartridge 5. Figure 8 is a partial perspective view of the photosensitive member unit 6 . Fig. 9 It is a perspective view of the developing unit 7 and the photosensitive member unit 6 . Fig.10 1 is a top view showing the arrangement relationship of the photosensitive member unit 6 , the developing unit 7 , and the developing roller 71 in the left-right direction.

[0110] like Fig. 9 As shown, the photosensitive member unit 6 mainly includes a frame 610 having a pair of left side wall 611 and right side wall 612 and a photosensitive drum 61 rotatably supported on the rear side of the frame 610. The photosensitive drum 61 is constructed by applying a photosensitive layer to the outer surface of an aluminum drum tube. In front of the frame 610, an attachment portion 615 to which the developing unit 7 can be attached, a gripping portion 617 for a user to grip the photosensitive member unit 6, and a pressing member 640 for pressing the developing unit 7 are provided. In addition, as shown in FIG. Figure 7 As shown, the toner accommodating portion 74 of the developing unit 7 attached to the attaching portion 615 is arranged between the left side wall 611 and the right side wall 612 in the left-right direction.

[0111] like Figure 7 and Fig. 9 As shown, on the left side wall 611 and the right side wall 612 of the frame 610, a receiving portion 641 for receiving the rotation support members 746A and 746B of the developing roller 71 is formed in front of the photosensitive drum 61. The receiving portion 641 is a substantially U-shaped concave portion whose front side is open, and the rotation shaft of the developing roller 71 is inserted into the receiving portion 641. The developing unit 7 is supported on the photosensitive member unit 6 by the receiving portion 641.

[0112] In addition, if Fig.10 As shown, protrusion portions 643 protruding upward are provided at both end portions of the bottom surface 613 of the frame 610 in the left-right direction. Fig.11 As shown, the protrusion 643 movably supports the developing unit 7 by contacting with the boss 718 provided at the bottom portion of the housing 700 of the developing unit 7. Figure 7 As shown, a pressing member 650 for restricting detachment of the developing unit 7 is provided in a state where the developing unit 7 is attached to the photosensitive member unit 6 .

[0113] like Fig. 9 As shown, the pressing member 640 is provided in front of the frame 610 and at both end portions of the frame 610 in the left-right direction, and due to the compression spring 640A ( Fig.10 ) and is biased in the front-to-rear direction. Therefore, the pressing member 640 is biased in the front-to-rear direction by the compression spring 640A ( Fig.10 ) by a biasing force to press a boss 718 ( Fig.11 ). By pressing the developing unit 7 with the pressing member 640 , the developing roller 71 is biased toward the photosensitive drum 61 .

[0114] In addition, if Figure 8 As shown, the photosensitive member gear (first gear) 65 and the transfer gear (second gear) 66 are fixed to the left end portion of the photosensitive drum 61, and are configured to rotate integrally with the photosensitive drum 61. When the process cartridge 5 is attached to the apparatus body 2, the drive gear (not shown) of the apparatus body 2 and the photosensitive member gear 65 mesh with each other, thereby transmitting the driving force to the photosensitive drum 61 and the transfer gear 66 so that the photosensitive drum and the transfer gear can rotate. In addition, the transfer gear 66 meshes with the transfer roller gear (third gear) 67 fixed to the left end portion of the transfer roller 63, and the transfer roller 63 is also in a rotatable state.

[0115] Toner Cartridge Structure

[0116] Next, the configuration of the toner cartridge 9 will be described. Fig.12is an exploded perspective view of the toner cartridge 9, and Fig.13 9 is a perspective view of the toner cartridge 9 as viewed from below. Fig.14 It is a cross-sectional view of the toner cartridge 9 .

[0117] like Fig.12 As shown, the toner cartridge 9 mainly includes a container member 911, a bottom member 912, a T side holder L92, a T side holder R93, a discharge opening forming member 94, a discharge side baffle 95, a conveying screw 96, and a second agitator 97. In addition, in order to transmit the driving force, a conveying screw gear 980, a T idler gear 981, and a second agitator gear 982 are provided. The T side holder L92 and the T side holder R93 may also be a part of the toner container 910. In addition, the T side holder L92, the T side holder R93, and the toner container 910 may be collectively referred to as the frame of the toner cartridge 9. The T side holder L92, the T side holder R93, and the toner container 910 may be formed integrally.

[0118] like Fig.13 As shown, a toner container 910 is formed by a container member 911 and a bottom member 912, and toner is contained inside the toner container 910. A discharge opening forming member 94 is provided at one end portion of the toner container 910 in the longitudinal direction thereof. The discharge opening forming member 94 has a discharge opening forming surface 94C on its outer peripheral portion, and a discharge opening 94A for discharging the toner to the outside is formed on the discharge opening forming surface 94C.

[0119] like Fig.14 As shown, the conveying screw 96 and the second agitator 97 are rotatably disposed inside the toner container 910. The driving force is transmitted to the conveying screw 96 and the second agitator 97 through the conveying screw gear 980 and the second agitator gear 982 disposed outside the toner container 910 to rotate the conveying screw and the second agitator (see Fig.12 ). Similar to the first agitator 75A, the second agitator 97 is composed of a second agitating rod 98 and a second agitating sheet 99. The toner contained in the toner container 910 is agitated by the second agitator 97 and conveyed toward the conveying screw 96. Next, the toner is conveyed toward the conveying screw 96. Fig.13 The illustrated discharge opening 94A is conveyed to the right and discharged from the discharge opening 94A.

[0120] like Fig.12As shown, the discharge side baffle 95 is rotatably disposed inside the discharge opening forming member 94. The discharge side baffle 95 is provided with a toner passing hole 95A and a sealing portion 95B. In a case where the discharge side baffle 95 rotates and the position of the toner passing hole 95A and the position of the discharge opening 94A coincide with each other, the toner can be discharged from the discharge opening 94A. On the other hand, in a case where the sealing portion 95B faces the discharge opening 94A, the discharge of the toner from the discharge opening 94A is restricted to prevent the toner from leaking inside the toner container 910 during transportation or the like.

[0121] Toner cartridge support

[0122] Next, the supporting structure of the toner cartridge 9 will be described. FIG. 15A to FIG. 15C It is a perspective view of the toner cartridge 9 and the process cartridge 5. Fig.15A A state before the toner cartridge 9 is attached to the process cartridge 5 is shown. Fig. 15B A state in which the toner cartridge 9 is being attached to the process cartridge 5 is shown. Fig. 15C A state in which the toner cartridge 9 has been attached to the process cartridge 5 is shown.

[0123] like FIG. 15A to FIG. 15C As shown, the toner cartridge 9 can be attached to the developing unit 7 and can be removed from the developing unit. The container member 911 of the toner cartridge 9 is provided with a handle portion 911A as a grip portion for the second unit. The T-side retainer L92 and the T-side retainer R93 are fixed to the toner cartridge 9 at both end portions in the longitudinal direction thereof. The T-side retainer L92 and the T-side retainer R93 each include a supported protrusion L92A and a supported protrusion R93A (supported portion) supported by the developing unit 7. In addition, the developing unit 7 is provided with a supporting portion L730 and a supporting portion R731 for supporting the supported protrusion L92A and the supported protrusion R93A.

[0124] like Fig.15A As shown, when the toner cartridge 9 is attached to the developing unit 7, the toner cartridge 9 is moved in the direction of arrow S3 while holding the handle portion 911A from above relative to the developing unit 7. Fig. 15B As shown in FIG. 1 , the toner cartridge 9 moving in the direction of arrow S3 is in a state where the supporting protrusions L92A and R93A are supported by the supporting portions L730 and R731. From this state, the toner cartridge 9 rotates in the direction of arrow R3 with the supporting protrusions L92A and R93A as the rotation center. Fig. 15C As shown, the toner cartridge 9 is attached to the process cartridge 5, and the cartridge unit 10 is formed. The rotation axis direction of the toner cartridge 9 is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge 9.

[0125] Furthermore, in a state where the toner cartridge 9 has been attached to the process cartridge 5, the conveying screw gear 980 of the toner cartridge 9 can mesh with the idler gear 715B of the developing unit 7. Therefore, the driving force of the developing unit 7 is transmitted to the toner cartridge 9.

[0126] The life span of the toner cartridge 9, which is determined by the amount of toner stored in the toner cartridge 9, is set shorter than the life span of the process cartridge 5, which is determined by the life span of the photosensitive drum 61 and the life span of the developing roller 71. Therefore, it is only necessary to replace the toner cartridge 9 that has reached the end of its life span separately from the process cartridge 5. In this case, the toner cartridge 9 can be replaced by simply opening the door 21 ( Figure 1 ) to replace the toner cartridge 9, and the user can perform the replacement work without removing the process cartridge 5 from the apparatus main body 2.

[0127] Receive side guard opening and closing operation

[0128] Next, the opening and closing operation of the receiving-side fence will be described. Fig.16A and Fig. 16B is a diagram showing the opening and closing operation of the receiving side shutter of the developing unit 7, Fig.16A shows the state where the receiving side baffle is closed, and Fig. 16B The state in which the receiving-side shutter is opened is shown.

[0129] like Figure 4 As shown, the toner receiving portion 770 of the developing unit 7 is composed of a toner receiving port 771 provided on the upper surface 700A of the housing 700, a receiving side shutter seal 772, a receiving side shutter 773, a receiving port cover 774, and a connecting seal 775. Hole portions 772A, 773A, 774A, and 775A are provided in the receiving side shutter seal 772, the receiving side shutter 773, the receiving port cover 774, and the connecting seal 775, respectively. In a state where each position of the hole portion 772A of the receiving side shutter seal 772, the hole portion 774A of the receiving port cover 774, and the hole portion 775A of the connecting seal 775 coincides with the position of the toner receiving port 771, they are assembled to each other. In addition, the receiving side shutter 773 is provided with a shielding portion 773B in addition to the hole portion 773A, and is assembled in a state where the shielding portion can slide. The toner receiving port 771 is opened and closed by sliding the shutter portion 773B.

[0130] Here, we will refer to Fig.16A and Fig. 16B The opening and closing operation of the receiving side shutter 773 is described. The opening and closing operation of the receiving side shutter 773 is performed in conjunction with the attaching operation and the detaching operation of the toner cartridge 9. Fig.16A and Fig. 16BAs shown, the driving protrusion group 94B is arranged on the outer peripheral surface of the discharge opening forming member 94 of the toner cartridge 9. Furthermore, a driven protrusion group 773C is arranged in the receiving-side shutter 773.

[0131] As described above, in the process of attaching the toner cartridge 9, the rotating operation of the toner cartridge 9 is performed to shift to the fully attached state. Fig.16A 1 shows a state before the rotation operation of the toner cartridge 9 is performed in the process of attaching the toner cartridge 9. Fig.16A In the illustrated state, the shielding portion 773B of the receiving side shutter 773 faces the toner receiving port 771, and the toner receiving port 771 is closed. In this case, the driving protrusion group 94B and the driven protrusion group 773C are in an engaged state.

[0132] Fig. 16B 7 shows a fully attached state after the toner cartridge 9 is rotated. In this case, since the rotation operation of the toner cartridge 9 is performed while the driving protrusion group 94B and the driven protrusion group 773C maintain their engagement, the receiving side shutter 773 slides in cooperation with the rotation operation of the toner cartridge 9. Therefore, the position of the hole portion 773A of the receiving side shutter 773 and the position of the toner receiving port 771 coincide with each other to open the toner receiving port 771. Similarly, when the toner cartridge 9 is detached from the developing unit 7, the receiving side shutter 773 moves in cooperation with the rotation operation of the toner cartridge 9, and the toner receiving port 771 is closed.

[0133] As described above, in a state where the toner cartridge 9 is attached to the developing unit 7, the toner receiving port 771 is in an open state, and toner can be received inside the developing unit 7. On the other hand, in a state where the toner cartridge 9 is not attached to the developing unit 7, the toner receiving port 771 is closed to prevent foreign matter from entering the developing unit 7 and to prevent toner from leaking to the outside of the developing unit 7.

[0134] Opening and closing operation of the damper on the discharge side

[0135] Next, the opening and closing operation of the discharge-side shutter 95 will be described. Fig.17A and Fig. 17B 1 is a diagram showing the opening and closing operation of the discharge side shutter 95 of the toner cartridge 9, Fig.17A The discharge side damper 95 is shown in a closed state, and Fig. 17B The state in which the discharge-side shutter 95 is opened is shown.

[0136] As mentioned above, in Fig.12In the case where the position of the discharge opening 94A of the discharge opening forming member 94 shown and the position of the toner passing hole 95A of the discharge side shutter 95 coincide with each other, the discharge opening 94A is in an open state. In addition, in the case where the closing portion 95B of the discharge side shutter 95 faces the discharge opening 94A, the discharge opening 94A is in a closed state. Similar to the opening and closing operation of the above-mentioned receiving side shutter 773, the opening and closing operation of the discharge side shutter 95 is also performed in conjunction with the rotation operation when attaching and detaching the toner cartridge 9.

[0137] like Fig.17A and Fig. 17B As shown, the discharge side shutter 95 is provided with a locked projection 95C, and the locked projection 95C is arranged inside the supported projection R93A in the radial direction thereof. Further, the supporting portion R731 of the developing unit 7 is provided with a locking portion 731A and a notched portion 731B.

[0138] Fig.17A 1 shows a state before the rotation operation of the toner cartridge 9 is performed in the process of attaching the toner cartridge 9. Fig.17A In the state shown, due to the closing portion 95B ( Fig.12 ) and the discharge opening 94A ( Fig.12 ) face each other, so the discharge opening 94A ( Fig.12 In this case, the locked projection 95C is sandwiched between the locking portions 731A, and the rotation operation of the discharge side shutter 95 relative to the developing unit 7 is prohibited.

[0139] Fig. 17B 7 shows a fully attached state after the toner cartridge 9 is rotated. In this case, the toner cartridge 9 is rotated relative to the developing unit 7 in a state where the rotation operation of the discharge side shutter 95 is prohibited. Here, since the supported protrusion R93A can enter the notch portion 731B, the rotation of the discharge side shutter 95 is prohibited, but the rotation of the toner cartridge 9 is not hindered.

[0140] As described above, in the process of attaching the toner cartridge 9, the rotating operation of the toner cartridge 9 causes the discharge side shutter 95 to rotate relatively inside the toner cartridge 9. Therefore, the toner passing hole 95A ( Fig.12 ) is located at the same position as the discharge opening 94A ( Fig.12 ) are aligned with each other to open the discharge opening 94A ( Fig.12 Similarly, when the toner cartridge 9 is detached from the developing unit 7, the discharge side shutter 95 rotates in conjunction with the rotation operation of the toner cartridge 9 to close the discharge opening 94A ( Fig.12 ).

[0141] Toner cartridge lifting mechanism

[0142] Next, the lift mechanism 760 of the toner cartridge 9 will be described.

[0143] 18A to 18C The movement of the lifting mechanism 760 during the process of attaching the toner cartridge 9 to the developing unit 7 is shown. Fig.18A A state in which the developing unit 7 is attached to the lifting mechanism 760 during the attaching process of the toner cartridge 9 is shown. Fig.18B A state in which the lift mechanism 760 is opened during the attaching process of the toner cartridge 9 is shown. Fig.18C A state in which the toner cartridge 9 has been attached is shown.

[0144] FIG. 19A to FIG. 19C The movement of converting the toner cartridge 9 to the lifted state using the lift mechanism 760 in a state where the toner cartridge 9 is attached to the developing unit 7 is shown. Fig.19A A state in which the toner cartridge 9 has been attached to the developing unit 7 is shown. Fig.19B A state in which the toner cartridge 9 is lifted up by the lifting mechanism 760 is shown. Fig.19C 9 shows a state where the toner cartridge 9 is lifted. FIG. 19A to FIG. 19C , for convenience of explanation, the side retainers 719 of the developing unit 7 are omitted.

[0145] like FIG. 19A to FIG. 19C As shown, the T-side retainer L92 of the toner cartridge 9 is provided with a protruding portion 92B, and the protruding portion 92B includes a contact surface 92C, a retaining surface 92D, and a receiving surface 92E. Figure 5 As shown, the lifting mechanism 760 is composed of a boss 719A, a lifting member 761 and a spiral coil spring 762 provided in the side retainer 719 of the developing unit 7. The lifting member 761 and the spiral coil spring 762 are attached to the boss 719A and can rotate around the boss 719A. The lifting member 761 has a contact area 761A, an operating portion 761B and a raised portion 761C. In addition, the lifting member 761 is biased in the direction of the arrow R1 due to the spiral coil spring 762.

[0146] First, refer to 18A to 18C The movement of the lifting mechanism 760 in the process of attaching the toner cartridge 9 is described.

[0147] When the rotating operation of the toner cartridge 9 is performed during the attaching process of the toner cartridge 9, as shown in FIG. Fig.18A As shown in FIG. 1 , the contact surface 92C and the contact area 761A are in contact with each other, and the toner cartridge 9 is placed on the lifting mechanism 760. When the rotation operation of the toner cartridge 9 is continued, as shown in FIG. Fig.18BAs shown, the contact area 761A is pushed by the contact surface 92C, and the lifting member 761 rotates in the direction of arrow R2 to allow the rotating operation of the toner cartridge 9. In addition, when the rotating operation of the toner cartridge 9 continues and the attachment of the toner cartridge 9 is completed, as shown in FIG. Fig.18C As shown, the contact area 761A is separated from the contact surface 92C and is in contact with the holding surface 92D. The lifting member 761 can hold the toner cartridge 9 in a fully attached state. That is, the lifting member 761 is a supporting member for supporting the toner cartridge 9 on the process cartridge 5. In this way, the lifting mechanism 760 is an operating member that moves the toner cartridge 9 in a direction in which the toner cartridge is attached to the process cartridge 5.

[0148] Next, we will refer to FIG. 19A to FIG. 19C The movement of converting the toner cartridge 9 from the fully attached state to the lifted state is described.

[0149] like Fig.19A As shown, in the fully attached state of the toner cartridge 9, the contact area 761A of the lifting member 761 is in contact with the holding surface 92D, and the toner cartridge 9 cannot be detached. Fig.19B As shown in FIG. 1 , in order to remove the toner cartridge 9, the operating portion 761B of the lifting member 761 is operated to rotate the lifting member 761 in the direction of the arrow R2. As a result, the raised portion 761C of the lifting member 761 contacts the receiving surface 92E, and the toner cartridge 9 can be rotated. Thereafter, when the operating portion 761B is opened, as shown in FIG. Fig.19C As shown, the lifting member 761 rotates in the direction of arrow R1 due to the biasing force of the spiral coil spring 762. The contact surface 92C and the operating portion 761B are in a contact state, and the colorant cartridge 9 is in a lifted state on the lifting mechanism 760. This enables the toner cartridge 9 to be removed. In this way, the lifting mechanism 760 moves the toner cartridge 9 in the direction in which the toner cartridge is removed from the process cartridge 5.

[0150] Memory tag placement

[0151] Next, a storage member according to the first embodiment will be described. Fig. 20 is a perspective view of the box unit 10 from obliquely above, and Fig.21 The cartridge unit 10 has a second memory tag 101 serving as a second storage member of the process cartridge 5 and a first memory tag 102 serving as a first storage member of the toner cartridge 9 .

[0152] The second memory tag 101 and the first memory tag 102 each have a memory substrate, a memory chip (storage element) provided on the memory substrate for storing information, and a memory contact electrically connected to the memory chip. The memory chip can be arranged inside the memory substrate. The memory contact is, for example, an electrode provided on the memory substrate. As a memory contact, the second memory tag 101 has a second memory contact 101a, and the first memory tag 102 has a first memory contact 102a. The second memory tag 101 has a second memory chip (second storage element), a second memory contact 101a electrically connected to the second memory chip, and a second contact arrangement surface on which the second memory contact 101a is arranged. The first memory tag 102 has a first memory chip (first storage element), a first memory contact 102a electrically connected to the first memory chip, and a first contact arrangement surface on which the first memory contact 102a is arranged. The first memory tag 102 is arranged on the top surface of the processing box 5 in a posture of using the box unit 10. As shown from Fig. 20 It is understandable that the first memory tag 102 is arranged at a position separated from the discharge opening forming member 94 and the discharge side shutter 95 .

[0153] The number of the second memory contacts 101a and the number of the first memory contacts 102a are both four. The four second memory contacts 101a are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the attachment direction of the box unit 10 and in the left-right direction of the process box 5. The four first memory contacts 102a are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the attachment direction of the box unit 10 and in the left-right direction of the toner cartridge 9. The second memory tag 101 and the first memory tag 102 can store and transfer various information. By forming an electrical contact between the second memory contact 101a and the main body memory contact of the device main body 2, information is transferred between the device main body 2 and the second memory contact 101a. By forming an electrical contact between the first memory contact 102a and the main body memory contact of the device main body 2, information is transferred between the device main body 2 and the first memory contact 102a.

[0154] Different information is stored in each of the second memory tag 101 and the first memory tag 102. The second memory tag 101 provided in the process cartridge 5 stores information on the process cartridge 5. For example, the information on the process cartridge 5 is information on the printing use history of the photosensitive drum 61 and the developing roller 71 provided in the process cartridge 5, etc. The first memory tag 102 provided on the toner cartridge 9 stores information on the toner cartridge 9. For example, the information on the toner cartridge 9 is information on the remaining amount of the toner contained in the toner cartridge 9, etc. By reading the information in the device body 2, control of the device body 2, such as notification to replace the process cartridge 5 and the toner cartridge 9 with new ones, is performed.

[0155] Next, the arrangement of the second memory tag 101 and the first memory tag 102 in the axial direction will be described. Here, the axial direction is the rotational axis direction (left-right direction) of the photosensitive drum 61 or the rotational axis direction (left-right direction) of the developing roller 71, and is simply referred to as the axial direction in the following description. Fig.21 , the second memory tag 101 is arranged on the left side of the lower surface of the process box 5. Fig. 20, the first memory label 102 is arranged on the right side of the upper surface of the toner cartridge 9. The toner cartridge 9 has a discharge opening 94A serving as a developer discharge opening for discharging the toner to the process cartridge 5. The discharge opening 94A of the toner cartridge is provided on the right side of the toner cartridge 9. As described above, in the longitudinal direction (axis direction) of the toner cartridge 9, the discharge opening 94A and the first memory label 102 are arranged on one end side relative to the center of the toner cartridge 9. The fact that some members (in this case, the discharge opening 94A and the first memory label 102) are arranged on one end side in the axis direction relative to the center of the toner cartridge 9 indicates that the distance in the axis direction between the end portion of the toner cartridge 9 on one end side and these members is shorter than the distance between the end portion of the toner cartridge 9 on the other end side opposite to the one end side and these members. Similarly, the fact that some members are arranged on the other end side in the axial direction relative to the center of the colorant cartridge 9 indicates that the distance in the axial direction between the end portion of the colorant cartridge 9 on the other end side and these members is shorter than the distance between the end portion of the colorant cartridge 9 on one end side and these members. A lifting mechanism 760 is provided on the left side of the colorant cartridge 9, and the lifting mechanism is a supporting member for supporting the colorant cartridge 9 on the process cartridge 5. That is, the first memory tag 102 is arranged on the same side as the discharge opening 94A relative to the center of the colorant cartridge 9 in the axial direction, and is arranged on the side opposite to the lifting mechanism 760. Therefore, in the longitudinal direction (axial direction) of the colorant cartridge 9, the lifting mechanism 760 is arranged on the other end side opposite to the one end side relative to the center of the colorant cartridge 9. In addition, the second memory tag 101 may also be arranged on the one end side relative to the center of the colorant cartridge 9.

[0156] In addition, reference will be made to Fig. 22 The arrangement of the first memory tag 102 is described. Fig. 22 1 is a side view of the cartridge unit 10 as viewed from the right side. As described above, the toner cartridge 9 is attached to the process cartridge 5 by rotating the toner cartridge 9. The position 9p of the toner cartridge 9 before the toner cartridge 9 is rotated is Fig. 22 In addition, the rotation direction of the toner cartridge 9 is Fig. 22 The rotation direction S4 of the toner cartridge 9 is the attachment direction of the toner cartridge 9 to the process cartridge 5. Fig. 22 The position 9r of the toner cartridge 9 when the toner cartridge 9 is rotated and the toner cartridge 9 is attached to the process cartridge 5 is shown. Fig. 22As can be seen, when the toner cartridge 9 moves from position 9p to position 9r, the first memory tag 102 moves integrally with the T-side retainer L92, the T-side retainer R93, and the toner container 910. In a state where the toner cartridge 9 is in contact with the process cartridge 5, the toner cartridge 9 moves from position 9p (first position) to position 9r (second position), and the toner cartridge 9 is positioned on the process cartridge 5. In this case, in a state where the supported protrusion L92A is supported by the supporting portion L730 and the supported protrusion R93A is supported by the supporting portion R731 ( Fig. 15B , the toner cartridge 9 is rotated from position 9p to position 9r. When the toner cartridge 9 is positioned relative to the process cartridge 5, position 9r (second position) of the toner cartridge 9 is a fully attached position or a positioned position of the toner cartridge 9 relative to the process cartridge 5. The position of the first memory tag 102 in the up-down direction (vertical direction) when the toner cartridge 9 is located at position 9r is lower than the position of the first memory tag 102 when the toner cartridge 9 is located at position 9p. In addition, as shown from Fig.17A , Fig. 17B , Fig. 20 and Fig. 22 It can be seen that, in the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge 9, the distance between the rotation center of the toner cartridge 9 (the supported protrusion L92A and the supported protrusion R93A) and the discharge opening 94A is shorter than the distance between the rotation center of the toner cartridge 9 and the first memory label 102. In addition, when the toner cartridge 9 is located at the position 9r, the first memory label 102 is located at the highest position in the toner cartridge 9 in the up-down direction. In addition, as can be seen from Fig. 9 and Fig. 22 It can be understood that the first memory tag 102 is located above the upper ends of the left side wall 611 and the right side wall 612 in the up and down direction.

[0157] The first memory label 102 has a first contact arrangement surface on which the first memory contact 102a is arranged. The device body 2 has a first main body memory contact 104a, and when the box unit 10 is attached to the device body 2, the first main body memory contact is in contact with the first memory contact 102a. The first memory contact 102a has a first memory contact surface in contact with the first main body memory contact 104a. When the box unit 10 is attached to the device body 2, the first memory contact 102a receives a pressing force from the first main body memory contact 104a of the device body 2 and contacts the first main body memory contact 104a. The direction of the pressing force is indicated by an arrow F1. When the colorant cartridge 9 is attached, the direction F1 of the pressing force is the same as the rotation direction S4. That is, the first memory contact 102a receives a pressing force from the first main body memory contact 104a of the device body 2, and the colorant cartridge 9 is pressed from the position 9p toward the position 9r. The first memory contact 102a has a first memory contact surface extending parallel to the front-rear direction and the left-right direction. The first memory contact surface of the first memory contact 102a may be formed at the same height as the first contact arrangement surface of the first memory tag 102. There may be a step between the first contact arrangement surface of the first memory tag 102 and the first memory contact surface of the first memory contact 102a. The normal direction M1 of the first memory contact surface facing the direction in which the first memory contact 102a is exposed on the first contact arrangement surface faces the direction opposite to the rotation direction S4. That is, the normal direction M1 of the first memory contact surface faces the direction opposite to the direction (rotation direction S4) in which the toner cartridge 9 points from the position 9p (first position) to the position 9r (second position). The first contact arrangement surface and the first memory contact surface are parallel to each other. Therefore, the normal direction M1 of the first contact arrangement surface facing the direction in which the first memory contact 102a is exposed faces the direction opposite to the rotation direction S4. That is, the normal direction M1 of the first contact arrangement surface faces the direction opposite to the direction (rotation direction S4) in which the toner cartridge 9 points from position 9p (first position) to position 9r (second position). Therefore, the pressing force direction F1 and the rotation direction S4 become the same direction.

[0158] Here, we will refer to FIG. 23A to FIG. 23D Describe the meaning of same direction and opposite direction. FIG. 23A to FIG. 23D is a schematic diagram showing the same direction and the opposite direction in the present invention. The fact that two directions are in the same direction does not mean that the two directions face exactly the same direction, but that the two directions have directional components in the same direction. That is, in Fig.23A In the embodiment, when the angle formed by the predetermined direction with respect to the reference direction B1 is in a range A1 between -90 degrees and 90 degrees (excluding -90 degrees and 90 degrees), the two directions are defined as being in the same direction. Fig. 23B As shown, when the angle formed by the two directions is in a range A2 between 45 degrees and -45 degrees, the component in the same direction becomes stronger and thus more effective for the effect of the present invention, which will be described later.

[0159] On the other hand, opposite directions mean that the two directions have directional components in opposite directions. Fig.23C In the embodiment, when the angle formed by the predetermined direction with respect to the reference direction B1 is in a range A3 between 90 degrees and -90 degrees (excluding 90 degrees and -90 degrees), the two directions are defined as being in opposite directions. Fig.23D As shown, when the angle formed by the two directions is in a range A4 between 135 degrees and -135 degrees, the component in the opposite direction becomes stronger and thus more effective for the effect of the present invention, which will be described later.

[0160] Next, we will refer to Fig.24 and Fig.25 The positioning of the box unit 10 relative to the apparatus main body 2 is described. Fig.24 It is a perspective view of the box unit 10 from obliquely above. Fig.25 It is a side view of the cassette unit 10 as seen from the right side.

[0161] The process cartridge 5 of the cartridge unit 10 is provided with a positioned protrusion 105a serving as a positioned portion and a positioned protrusion 105b serving as a rotation restricted portion. The positioned protrusions 105a and 105b are provided on the front and rear sides of the process cartridge 5 so as to protrude from the left side wall 611 and the right side wall 612 of the frame 610 in the axial direction, respectively. In the attachment direction of the process cartridge 5, the positioned protrusion 105a provided on the front side of the process cartridge 5 is provided coaxially with the photosensitive drum 61. As shown in FIG. Fig.12 , Fig.15A , Fig. 20 and Fig.24 As can be seen, in the present embodiment, the first memory tag 102 is attached to the T-side retainer R93 . However, the first memory tag 102 may be attached to the toner container 910 .

[0162] The apparatus body 2 has a guide groove 106 serving as a positioning portion for supporting the positioned protrusions 105a and 105b. The guide groove 106 is Fig.25. The box unit 10 is moved backward relative to the device body 2 and is attached to the device body 2. When the box unit 10 is attached, the positioned protrusions 105a and 105b pass through the inside of the guide groove 106 along the guide groove 106. When the positioned protrusions 105a and 105b pass through the inside of the guide groove 106, the upper surface 106a and the lower surface 106b (rotation restricted portion) of the guide groove 106 restrict the vertical movement of the positioned protrusions 105a and 105b. Therefore, when the box unit 10 is attached, the movement of the box unit 10 in the up and down direction relative to the device body 2 is restricted. In addition, in the posture of using the box unit 10, the movement of the box unit 10 in the direction of gravity is restricted.

[0163] Fig.25 1 shows a state in which the box unit 10 has been attached to the device body 2 and the box unit 10 has been positioned on the device body 2. The guide groove 106 has a positioning groove 106c formed on the inner side of the guide groove 106 in the attachment direction of the process cartridge 5. The positioning groove 106c has a lower surface 106d continuous with the lower surface 106b of the guide groove 106 and a vertical surface 106e extending in the vertical direction from the lower surface 106d. A biasing force directed backward and downward is applied to the process cartridge 5 by a biasing member (not shown) provided on the device body 2. Due to the biasing force, the positioned protrusion 105a contacts the lower surface 106d and the vertical surface 106e of the positioning groove 106c, and the positioned protrusion 105a is positioned in the guide groove 106. In addition, due to the biasing force, the positioned protrusion 105b provided on the rear side of the process cartridge 5 contacts the lower surface 106b of the guide groove 106, and the positioned protrusion 105b is positioned in the guide groove 106. By determining the position of the positioned protrusion 105a, the position of the box unit 10 is determined in a direction orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the photosensitive drum 61. On the other hand, by determining the position of the positioned protrusion 105b, the box unit 10 is restricted from rotating around the positioned protrusion 105a. In other words, the posture of the box unit 10 is determined. More specifically, the movement of the positioned protrusion 105a in the horizontal direction and the vertical direction is restricted by the guide groove 106. The movement of the positioned protrusion 105b in the vertical direction is restricted by the guide groove 106. As described above, the box unit 10 is positioned in the device body 2. In addition, the opposite side of the box unit 10 in the longitudinal direction is also positioned by the same construction. In addition, the positioned protrusion 105a may be configured to be subjected to a biasing force in the rear and upward direction due to a biasing member (not shown) provided on the device body 2. In this case, due to the biasing force, the positioned protrusion 105a contacts the upper surface (on the side opposite to the lower surface 106d) and the vertical surface 106e of the positioning groove 106c, and the positioned protrusion 105a is positioned in the guide groove 106.

[0164] Here, the direction F1 of the pressing force from the first main body memory contact 104a acting on the first memory contact 102a is the same as the direction P1 in which the positioned protrusion 105b contacts the lower surface 106b of the guide groove 106. That is, the normal direction M1 of the first memory contact surface facing the direction in which the first memory contact 102a is exposed (the same as the normal direction M1 of the first contact arrangement surface) faces the direction opposite to the direction (pressing direction) P1 in which the positioned protrusion 105b contacts the guide groove 106. Therefore, the pressing force direction F1 and the positioning direction P1 become the same direction. The positioned protrusion 105b contacts the lower surface 106b to restrict the rotation around the positioned protrusion 105a. In addition, in Fig.25 , the distance b between the position of the positioned protrusion 105a and the position of the positioned protrusion 105b in the front-to-back direction is set to be greater than the distance a between the position of the positioned protrusion 105b and the position of the line along the pressing force direction F1 in the front-to-back direction. In addition, the distance a is equal to the distance between the position of the positioned protrusion 105b and the position where the first memory contact 102a and the first main body memory contact 104a contact each other in the front-to-back direction. That is, the relationship between the position of the positioned protrusion 105a, the position of the positioned protrusion 105b, and the position of the line along the pressing force direction F1 in the front-to-back direction becomes distance a<distance b. In addition, in the front-to-back direction, the position where the first memory contact 102a and the first main body memory contact 104a contact each other is located at a position farther away from the positioned protrusion 105a than the positioned protrusion 105b. In addition, as shown from Fig.25 It can be seen that the distance between the first memory contact 102a and the positioned protrusion 105a is longer than the distance between the positioned protrusion 105b and the positioned protrusion 105a.

[0165] The effects of the first embodiment will be described below. First, the effect of the arrangement of the first memory label 102 in the axial direction will be described. The first memory label 102 is arranged on the same side as the discharge opening 94A of the colorant cartridge 9 in the axial direction, and is arranged on the side opposite to the lifting mechanism 760 of the colorant cartridge 9. Since the lifting mechanism 760 is a portion directly operated by a user who uses the printer (imaging device), it is necessary to keep the lifting mechanism 760 clean so as not to dirty the user's hands. Therefore, the lifting mechanism 760 is arranged on the side opposite to the discharge opening 94A in the axial direction so as to separate the lifting mechanism 760 from the discharge opening 94A of the colorant cartridge 9 where toner contamination may occur.

[0166] Furthermore, if the first memory contact 102a becomes dirty, information transmission between the device body 2 and the first memory tag 102 may become unstable, and it is also necessary to prevent the first memory contact 102a from becoming dirty. Therefore, by arranging the first memory tag 102 on the side opposite to the lifting mechanism 760 in the axial direction, it is possible to prevent the first memory contact 102a from becoming dirty due to the user accidentally touching the first memory contact 102a when operating the lifting mechanism 760.

[0167] As described above, usability can be improved by preventing toner contamination on the user's hands. In addition, by preventing the user from accidentally touching the first memory contact 102a, the first memory contact 102a can be prevented from becoming dirty, and information can be reliably transmitted between the device body 2 and the first memory tag 102.

[0168] Next, the effect of the arrangement of the first memory tag 102 in the cross-sectional direction perpendicular to the axial direction will be described. The first memory tag 102 is arranged so that the direction F1 of the pressing force received by the first memory contact 102a from the first main body memory contact 104a of the device main body 2 when the colorant cartridge 9 is attached is the same as the rotation direction S4. With the pressing force from the first main body memory contact 104a, the colorant cartridge 9 can be stably pressed on the process cartridge 5 in the attachment direction (rotation direction S4). Therefore, the position accuracy of the colorant cartridge 9 relative to the process cartridge 5 can be improved. In addition, by improving the position accuracy of the colorant cartridge 9, the position accuracy of the first memory contact 102a relative to the first main body memory contact 104a is improved, and thus the first memory contact and the first main body memory contact can be reliably electrically connected, and the reliability of information transmission can be improved.

[0169] Next, another effect of the configuration regarding the first embodiment will be described. As described above, the lifting mechanism 760 has a function of preventing the toner cartridge 9 from falling off from the process cartridge 5. Therefore, on the side where the lifting mechanism 760 is arranged in the axial direction, the position accuracy of the toner cartridge 9 relative to the process cartridge 5 can be ensured by the lifting mechanism 760. On the other hand, in the case where the first memory tag 102 is arranged on the side where the lifting mechanism 760 is not arranged in the axial direction, the toner cartridge 9 is stably pressed in the attachment direction (rotation direction S4) due to the pressing force on the first memory contact 102a instead of the lifting mechanism 760. Due to the pressing force on the first memory contact 102a, the position accuracy of the toner cartridge 9 relative to the process cartridge 5 can be ensured. Therefore, the first memory contact 102a and the first main body memory contact 104a can be reliably electrically connected and the reliability of information transmission can be improved.

[0170] Furthermore, the effect of the arrangement of the first memory label 102 will be described. The first memory label 102 is arranged so that the direction F1 of the pressing force received by the first memory contact 102a from the first main body memory contact 104a is the same direction as the direction P1 in which the positioned protrusion 105b contacts the guide groove 106 which is the positioning portion of the apparatus main body 2. Therefore, since the positioned protrusion 105b of the process cartridge 5 can reliably contact the lower surface 106b of the guide groove 106 due to the pressing force, the positioning of the process cartridge 5 relative to the apparatus main body 2 can be performed more reliably.

[0171] exist Fig.25 In the embodiment, the relationship between the position of the positioned protrusion 105a, the position of the positioned protrusion 105b and the position of the line along the pressing force direction F1 in the front-rear direction becomes distance a < distance b. Due to the pressing force received by the first memory contact 102a from the first main body memory contact 104a, a pressure generated by the positioned protrusion 105a is generated. Fig.25 The upward rotation moment indicated by the arrow S5 in FIG. 1 is a rotation moment indicated by the arrow S5 in FIG. 1 , wherein the contact position between the positioned protrusion 105b and the guide groove 106 is used as a fulcrum. As described above, a biasing force directed downward and backward is applied to the box unit 10 by a biasing member (not shown) provided on the device body 2 for positioning on the device body 2. However, in the case where the force of the rotation moment S5 acting in the direction opposite to the direction of the biasing force is large, the positioning of the box unit 10 may become unstable. Therefore, the relationship between the position of the positioned protrusion 105a, the position of the positioned protrusion 105b, and the position of the line along the pressing force direction F1 in the front-back direction is set to be distance a<distance b. Therefore, the force of the rotation moment (S5) can be suppressed to be small relative to the pressing force received by the first memory contact 102a from the first main body memory contact 104a. Therefore, the positioning of the box unit 10 relative to the device body 2 can be stabilized. As described above, the pressing force of the first main body memory contact 104a generates a moment in the direction in which the positioned protrusion 105a is biased upward. Therefore, in a case where a biasing force directed upward and rearward is applied to the positioned protrusion 105a and the box unit 10 is positioned, the pressing force of the first body memory contact 104a can contribute to the upward positioning of the positioned protrusion 105a.

[0172] Second embodiment

[0173] Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, parts different from those of the first embodiment will be described in detail. Unless otherwise specified, the second embodiment has the same configuration as the first embodiment, and therefore the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be represented by the same reference numerals, and their detailed description will be omitted.

[0174] Will refer to Fig.26and Fig. 27 Describes the placement of memory tags. Fig.26 is a perspective view of the box unit 10 from obliquely above, and Fig. 27 1 is a perspective view of the box unit 10 from an oblique bottom. Fig. 27 As shown in FIG. 1 , the second memory tag 107 is provided on the right side of the lower surface of the process cartridge 5. The cartridge unit 10 has the second memory tag 107 as the second storage member of the process cartridge 5 and the first memory tag 102 as the first storage member of the toner cartridge 9. The second memory tag 107 in the second embodiment is more miniaturized than the second memory tag 101 in the first embodiment described above. The number of the second memory contacts 101a in the second embodiment is two, which is less than the number of the four second memory contacts 101a described above. The second memory tag 107 in the second embodiment can store and transfer various information in the same manner as the second memory tag 101 described above.

[0175] like Fig.26 As shown, the first memory label 102 is arranged on the left side of the upper surface of the colorant cartridge 9. In addition, the discharge opening 94A of the colorant cartridge 9 and the electrical contacts 720A and 720B of the process cartridge 5 are arranged on the right side of the box unit 10. That is, the first memory label 102 is arranged on the side opposite to the discharge opening 94A of the colorant cartridge 9 and the electrical contacts 720A and 720B of the process cartridge in the axial direction. Therefore, in the longitudinal direction (axial direction) of the colorant cartridge 9, the discharge opening 94A is arranged on one end side relative to the center of the colorant cartridge 9, and the first memory label 102 is arranged on the other end side opposite to the one end side relative to the center of the colorant cartridge 9. In addition, the second memory label 107 is arranged on one end side in the axial direction relative to the center of the box unit 10. The position of the first memory label 102 in this embodiment is the same as that of the first memory label 102 in the first embodiment in the front-to-back direction and the left-to-right direction. As shown from Fig.26 As can be seen, the first memory tag 102 is arranged at a position separated from the discharge opening forming member 94 and the discharge side shutter 95. Fig.12 , Fig.15A and Fig.26 It can be seen that the first memory tag 102 is attached to the T-side holder L92 . However, the first memory tag 102 may be attached to the toner container 910 .

[0176] The effects of the second embodiment will be described below. In the second embodiment, by using the miniaturized second memory tag 107, the second memory tag 107 can be arranged even in a small space of the processing box 5. In addition, the first memory tag 102 is arranged on the side opposite to the discharge opening 94A of the colorant box 9 in the axial direction, and the first memory tag 102 is separated from the discharge opening 94A where toner contamination may occur, so that toner contamination of the first memory contact 102a can be prevented. In addition, the first memory tag 102 is arranged on the side opposite to the electrical contacts 720A and 720B in the axial direction, and the first memory tag 102 is separated from the electrical contacts 720A and 720B. Therefore, the first memory tag 102 can be made not to be affected by the electrical noise generated by the electrical contacts 720A and 720B. Therefore, the stability of information transmission can be improved.

[0177] Other configurations of the second embodiment will be described. The memory tags may be arranged as follows. Fig.26 As shown, the first memory tag 102 may be provided on the left side of the upper surface of the toner cartridge 9, and as shown in FIG. Fig.21 As shown, the second memory tag 101 can be provided on the left side of the lower surface of the process cartridge 5. By doing so, the second memory tag 101 and the first memory tag 102 can be provided on the side opposite to the electrical contacts 720A and 720B in the axial direction, and thus they can be free from the influence of the electrical noise generated by the electrical contacts 720A and 720B. Therefore, the stability of information transmission can be improved. That is, the second memory tag 107 can be arranged on the other end side relative to the center of the toner cartridge 9.

[0178] Third embodiment

[0179] Next, a third embodiment will be described. In the third embodiment, parts different from those of the above-described embodiments will be described in detail. Unless otherwise specified, the third embodiment has the same configuration as each embodiment, and therefore the same parts as those in each embodiment will be represented by the same reference numerals, and their detailed description will be omitted.

[0180] Will refer to Fig.28 Describes the placement of memory tags. Fig.28 1 is a perspective view of the cartridge unit 10 from obliquely above. Fig.28 The right end portion in the middle has an end surface ( Fig.28). In the present embodiment, the right end surface extends in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the colorant box 9. However, the right side surface may be inclined relative to a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the colorant box 9. The first memory label 102 is arranged on the right end surface of the colorant box 9 so that the first contact arrangement surface and the first memory contact surface of the first memory contact 102a face right relative to the axial direction. That is, in the axial direction, the first contact arrangement surface and the first memory contact surface of the first memory contact 102a are arranged to face the outside of the colorant box 9. In addition, the first memory contact 102a is arranged at a position in the box unit 10 where the first memory contact 102a is inserted to the left along the axial direction. In addition, as in the second embodiment, in the axial direction, the first memory label 102 is arranged on one end side relative to the center of the box unit 10, and the second memory label 107 is arranged on the other end side opposite to the one end side relative to the center of the box unit 10. As shown from Fig.12 , Fig.15A and Fig.28 As can be seen, the first memory tag 102 is attached to the T-side retainer R93. In addition, the second memory tag 107 may also be arranged on one end side relative to the center of the toner cartridge 9.

[0181] Fig.29 1 is a perspective view showing a state in which the box unit 10 is attached to the device body 2 and the first memory contact 102a is in contact with the first main body memory contact 104a. After the box unit 10 is attached to the device body 2, the first main body memory contact 104a is moved in the axial direction ( Fig.29 Therefore, the first memory contact 102a and the first body memory contact 104a can be satisfactorily electrically connected to each other.

[0182] The effects of the third embodiment will be described. The first memory label 102 is arranged on the side end surface of the colorant cartridge 9 so that the first contact arrangement surface and the first memory contact surface of the first memory contact 102a face the axial direction. This eliminates the need to arrange the first memory label 102 on the upper surface of the colorant cartridge 9. Therefore, the box unit 10 and the device body 2 can be miniaturized in the up-down direction. In a multifunction printer in which a document reading device is arranged on the upper portion of the device body 2, miniaturizing the device body 2 in the up-down direction is particularly effective in reducing the size of the entire device in the up-down direction.

[0183] Fourth embodiment

[0184] Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. In the fourth embodiment, parts different from those of the above-described embodiments will be described in detail. Unless otherwise specified, the fourth embodiment has the same configuration as each embodiment, and therefore the same parts as those in each embodiment will be represented by the same reference numerals, and their detailed description will be omitted.

[0185] Will refer to Fig.30 and Fig.31 Describes the placement of memory tags. Fig.30 It is a perspective view of the box unit 10 from obliquely above. Fig.31 1 is a front view of the box unit 10 in the attachment direction. Similar to the third embodiment, the end portion ( Fig.30 The right end portion in the middle has an end surface ( Fig.30 The first memory label 102 is arranged so that the first contact arrangement surface and the first memory contact surface of the first memory contact 102a are directed rightward relative to the axial direction on the right end surface of the toner cartridge 9. In addition, when viewed in the attachment direction of the cartridge unit 10, the first memory label 102 is arranged so that the first memory contact 102a is located on the outermost side of the cartridge unit 10 in the axial direction. Specifically, when the cartridge unit 10 is attached, the first memory contact 102a is located on the outermost side of the cartridge unit 10 in the axial direction in the region through which the first memory label 102 passes. Fig.31 For explanation, when viewed in the attachment direction of the box unit 10, the area A1 is defined as an area where the first memory contact 102a is provided in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction. In this case, the first memory contact 102a is arranged so that the first memory contact 102a is positioned further outward and further to the right in the area A1 than the outermost position P2 on the right side of the box unit 10 in the axial direction except for the first memory label 102. That is, the first memory contact 102a is arranged at the most protruding position toward the outside of the colorant cartridge 9 or the box unit 10 in the axial direction. In addition, when the box unit 10 is attached, there may be a portion located outside the area through which the first memory label 102 passes in the axial direction relative to the first memory contact 102a. Furthermore, with respect to the attachment direction of the box unit 10, in the area on the upstream side of the first memory label 102, there may be a portion located outside the first memory contact 102a in the axial direction. As shown from Fig.12 , Fig.15A and Fig.30 As can be seen, the first memory tag 102 is attached to the T-side retainer R93.

[0186] Fig.321 is a perspective view showing a state during attachment when the box unit 10 is attached to the apparatus main body 2 . Fig.33 1 is a perspective view showing a state in which the box unit 10 is attached to the device body 2 and the first memory contact 102a is in contact with the first main body memory contact 104a. In this way, by the operation of moving the box unit 10 in the attachment direction (arrow S1 direction) when attaching the box unit 10, the first memory contact 102a and the first main body memory contact 104a are in contact with each other. Therefore, the first memory contact 102a and the first main body memory contact 104a are electrically connected to each other. In addition, in the fourth embodiment, unlike the above-mentioned third embodiment, the device body 2 is not provided with a means for moving the first main body memory contact 104a in the C1 direction (see Fig.29 However, as in the third embodiment, the device body 2 may be provided with a mechanism for moving the first body memory contact 104a in the C1 direction (see Fig.29 ) moving mechanism.

[0187] Next, we will refer to Fig.30 , Fig.32 and Fig.33 The first main body memory contact 104a is configured to be movable in the vertical direction. Fig.30 As shown in FIG. 1 , the toner cartridge 9 is provided with a positioning groove 108, which is a positioning portion of the first main body memory contact 104a. The positioning groove 108 determines the position of the first main body memory contact 104a. Fig.32 As shown in FIG. 1 , a positioned protrusion 109 as a positioned portion engaged with the positioning groove 108 is provided on the apparatus body 2 side. Fig.33 The positioning groove 108 shown engages with the positioned protrusion 109 in the up-down direction (vertical direction), and the first main body memory contact 104a is positioned relative to the first memory contact 102a, and the up-down direction is the direction in which the plurality of first memory contacts 102a are arranged. The first main body memory contact 104a is positioned relative to the first memory contact 102a so that in the posture when the box unit 10 is used, the plurality of first memory contacts 102a are arranged in a row in the vertical direction, and the plurality of first main body memory contacts 104a are arranged in a row in the vertical direction. More specifically, the first main body memory contact 104a is positioned in a direction intersecting with the attachment direction of the box unit 10 and in a direction intersecting with the rotation axis direction of the photosensitive drum 61.

[0188] The effects of the fourth embodiment will be described below. When viewed in the attachment direction of the box unit 10, the first memory label 102 is arranged on the toner cartridge 9 so that the first memory contact 102a is located on the outermost side of the box unit 10 in the axial direction. Therefore, by the operation of attaching the box unit 10 to the device body 2, the first memory contact 102a and the first main body memory contact 104a can be properly electrically connected to each other. According to the present configuration, unlike the third embodiment, there is no need to provide a moving mechanism for the first main body memory contact 104a, so that the configuration of the device body 2 can be simplified.

[0189] In addition, the toner cartridge 9 is provided with a positioning portion having the first main body memory contact 104a. Therefore, the positioning accuracy between the first memory contact 102a and the first main body memory contact 104a is improved, so that the transmission of information can be reliably performed. In addition, by improving the positioning accuracy, the size of the first contact arrangement surface and the first memory contact surface of the first memory contact 102a can be miniaturized, and thus the entire outer shape of the first memory label 102 can be miniaturized. In addition, the positioning of the first memory contact 102a and the first main body memory contact 104a is performed in the direction in which the plurality of first memory contacts 102a are arranged. Therefore, since the size of the plurality of first memory contacts 102a can be reduced, the size of the first memory label 102 can be more effectively reduced.

[0190] Fifth embodiment

[0191] Next, a fifth embodiment will be described. In the fifth embodiment, parts different from those of the above-described embodiments will be described in detail. Unless otherwise specified, the fifth embodiment has the same configuration as each embodiment, and therefore the same parts as those in each embodiment will be represented by the same reference numerals, and their detailed description will be omitted.

[0192] Will refer to Fig.34 Describes the placement of memory tags. Fig.34 1 is a perspective view of the cartridge unit 10 from obliquely above. Similar to the third and fourth embodiments, the end portion ( Fig.34 The right end portion in the middle has an end surface ( Fig.34). Similar to the third and fourth embodiments, the first memory tag 110 is arranged on the right end surface of the colorant cartridge 9 so that the first contact arrangement surface and the first memory contact surface of the first memory contact 110a point to the right in the axial direction. That is, in the axial direction, the first contact arrangement surface and the first memory contact surface of the first memory contact 110a are arranged to face the outside of the colorant cartridge 9. The first memory tag 110 in the fifth embodiment is more miniaturized than the first memory tag 102 in each of the above-mentioned embodiments, and the number of the first memory contacts 110a in the fifth embodiment is smaller than the number of the first memory contacts 102a. In addition, the first memory tag 110 of the fifth embodiment can store and transmit various information like the first memory tag 102.

[0193] Memory tag support

[0194] Will refer to Fig.35 and Fig.36 The support structure of the first memory tag 110 is described. Fig.35 1 is a perspective view showing a state during attachment when the box unit 10 is attached to the apparatus main body 2 . Fig.36 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the box unit 10 is attached to the apparatus body 2 and the first memory contact 110 a is in contact with the first body memory contact 111 a .

[0195] like Fig.36 As shown, the first memory tag 110 is supported by a memory support base 112 serving as a support portion by using a fixing means such as a double-sided tape. The memory support base 112 has a fixing portion 112a for fixing the first memory tag 110 and a limiting portion 112b formed to protrude in the up-down direction and the front-rear direction. The toner cartridge 9 has a T-side retainer R93 and a memory cover 113 fixed to the T-side retainer R93 using a fixing means (not shown) such as a screw. The T-side retainer R93 and the memory cover 113 are examples of a first frame.

[0196] The first memory tag 110 supported by the memory support base 112 is exposed to the outside through a hole portion 113a formed in the memory cover 113. By forming the hole portion 113a so that the hole portion 113a is larger than the outer shape of the memory support base 112, the memory support base 112 can move in the up-down direction and the front-rear direction relative to the side retainer R93 and the memory cover 113. The limiting portion 112b of the memory support base 112 is arranged in a space A2 provided between the T side retainer R93 and the memory cover 113. In the axial direction, the width B1 of the limiting portion 112b in the left-right direction is formed to be smaller than the width B2 of the space between the T side retainer R93 and the memory cover 113.

[0197] The compression spring 114 is provided between the storage support base 112 and the T-side retainer R93 to press the storage support base 112 to the right. In a state where the box unit 10 is not attached to the device body 2, due to the biasing force of the compression spring 114, the limiting portion 112b of the storage support base 112 contacts the inner surface of the storage cover 113, and thus the rightward movement of the storage support base 112 is restricted. In the case where a leftward external force F2 greater than the biasing force of the compression spring 114 is generated on the storage support base 112, the limiting portion 112b of the storage support base 112 contacts the outer surface of the T-side retainer R93, thereby restricting the leftward movement of the storage support base 112. On the other hand, when the hole portion 113a of the storage cover 113 contacts the storage support base 112, the movement of the storage support base 112 in the up-down direction and the front-rear direction is restricted.

[0198] As described above, the storage support base 112 can move in three directions of the up-down direction, the front-to-back direction, and the left-to-right direction relative to the colorant cartridge 9, but the storage support base 112 is supported so that the movement is limited by a predetermined amount of movement. For example, the axis direction is defined as the first direction (left-right direction), the direction perpendicular to the first direction (left-right direction) is defined as the second direction (up-down direction), and the direction perpendicular to the second direction (up-down direction) is defined as the third direction (front-to-back direction). In addition, for example, the axis direction is defined as the first direction (left-right direction), the direction perpendicular to the first direction (left-right direction) is defined as the second direction (front-to-back direction), and the direction perpendicular to the second direction (front-to-back direction) is defined as the third direction (up-down direction). In these cases, the storage support base 112 is configured to be movable in each of the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction relative to the side retainer R93 and the storage cover 113.

[0199] Next, we will refer to Fig.35 and Fig.36 The positioning structure of the first memory label 110 is described. The device body 2 is provided with a first memory contact holder 111 that supports the first body memory contact 111a. An inclined inner wall surface 111b is formed on the first memory contact holder 111 to surround the first body memory contact 111a. The memory support base 112 has an inclined surface 112c formed to contact the inclined inner wall surface 111b so as to position the memory support base 112 relative to the first memory contact holder 111. The inclined surface 112c is formed to surround the fixed portion 112a of the memory support base 112.

[0200] When the box unit 10 is attached to the device body 2, as shown in FIG. Fig.36As shown, the biasing force of the compression spring 114 makes the inclined surface 112c of the memory support base 112 contact the inclined inner wall surface 111b of the first memory contact holder 111. In addition, in the case where the first memory contact 110a is positioned relative to the first main body memory contact 111a, the first memory contact 110a contacts the first main body memory contact 111a. At this time, a gap is formed between the memory support base 112 and the hole portion 113a of the memory cover 113 in the up-down direction and the front-back direction. In addition, a gap is formed between the restriction portion 112b of the memory support base 112 and the T-side holder R93 and between the restriction portion 112b and the memory cover 113 in the left-right direction. Therefore, the memory support base 112 is positioned relative to the first memory contact holder 111 in each of the up-down direction, the front-back direction, and the left-right direction. As described above, the first memory contact 110a and the first main body memory contact 111a are accurately positioned with each other in the three directions of the up-down direction, the front-back direction, and the left-right direction.

[0201] The effects of the fifth embodiment will be described below. The memory support base 112 of the first memory tag 110 is supported on the colorant box 9 so as to be movable in three directions, namely, the up-down direction, the front-back direction, and the left-right direction. In addition, when the box unit 10 is attached, the memory support base 112 on which the first memory tag 110 is supported is positioned relative to the first memory contact holder 111 in three directions. That is, the first memory contact 110a and the first main body memory contact 111a are accurately positioned relative to each other in three directions. Therefore, the positioning accuracy between the first memory contact 110a and the first main body memory contact 111a in the up-down direction and the front-back direction, in which the first contact arrangement surface and the first memory contact surface 110b of the first memory contact 110a extend, can be improved. Therefore, the first memory contact 110a and the first main body memory contact 111a can be reliably electrically connected, and thus the certainty of information transmission can be improved. Furthermore, since the sizes of the first contact arrangement surface and the first memory contact surface 110b can be reduced by improving positioning accuracy, the first memory tag 110 can be miniaturized.

[0202] In addition, the positioning accuracy between the first memory contact 110a and the first main body memory contact 111a in the left-right direction, which is the normal direction of the first contact arrangement surface and the first memory contact surface 110b of the first memory contact 110a, can be improved. Therefore, since the contact pressure between the first memory contact 110a and the first main body memory contact 111a can be made appropriate to suppress damage to each other's contacts when they are brought into contact, the certainty of information transmission can be improved.

[0203] Sixth embodiment

[0204] Next, the sixth embodiment will be described. In the sixth embodiment, parts different from those of the above-described embodiments will be described in detail. Unless otherwise specified, the sixth embodiment has the same configuration as each embodiment, and therefore the same parts as those in each embodiment will be represented by the same reference numerals, and their detailed description will be omitted.

[0205] Will refer to Fig.37 and Fig.38 Describes the placement of memory tags. Fig.37 and Fig.38 1 is a perspective view of the colorant cartridge 9 and the box unit 10 from obliquely below. A protruding portion 115 protruding downward is formed on the T-side retainer L92 of the colorant cartridge 9. The first memory label 110 is arranged at the end of the protruding portion 115 so that the first contact arrangement surface and the first memory contact surface 110b of the first memory contact 110a face downward. The first memory label 110 is provided on the left side of the colorant cartridge 9. In addition, the colorant cartridge 9 is provided with the above-mentioned discharge opening 94A on the right side of the colorant cartridge 9. Therefore, in the longitudinal direction (axial direction) of the colorant cartridge 9, the discharge opening 94A is arranged on one end side relative to the center of the colorant cartridge 9, and the first memory label 110 is arranged on the other end side opposite to the one end side relative to the center of the colorant cartridge 9.

[0206] Fig.38 1 shows a state in which the toner cartridge 9 is attached to the cartridge unit 10 of the process cartridge 5. The first memory tag 110 is arranged so that the first memory contact 110a is exposed to the outside from the opening portion 116 formed in the frame 610 of the process cartridge 5. Fig.38 As shown, the second memory tag 101 and the first memory tag 110 are provided on the left side of the lower surface of the box unit 10 .

[0207] In addition, reference will be made to Fig.39 The arrangement of the first memory tag 110 is described. Fig.39 1 is a sectional view of the cartridge unit 10 as viewed from the left side. As described above, the toner cartridge 9 is attached to the process cartridge 5 by rotating the toner cartridge 9 relative to the process cartridge 5. The position 9p of the toner cartridge 9 before the rotation is Fig.39 In addition, the rotation direction of the toner cartridge 9 is Fig.39 The rotation direction S4 of the toner cartridge 9 is the attachment direction of the toner cartridge 9 relative to the process cartridge 5. Fig.39The position 9r of the toner cartridge 9 is shown when the toner cartridge 9 is rotated and the toner cartridge 9 is attached to the process cartridge 5. With the toner cartridge 9 in contact with the process cartridge 5, the toner cartridge 9 moves from the position 9p (first position) to the position 9r (second position), and the toner cartridge 9 is positioned on the process cartridge 5. The position 9r (second position) of the toner cartridge 9 when the toner cartridge 9 is positioned relative to the process cartridge 5 is a fully attached position or a positioned position of the toner cartridge 9 relative to the process cartridge 5.

[0208] The first memory tag 110 has a first contact arrangement surface on which the first memory contact 110a is arranged. The device body 2 has a first main body memory contact 104a, which contacts the first memory contact 110a when the box unit 10 is attached to the device body 2. The first memory contact 110a has a first memory contact surface that contacts the first main body memory contact 104a. The first memory contact 110a has a first memory contact surface that contacts the first main body memory contact 104a. The first memory contact 110a has a first memory contact surface 110b extending parallel to the front-rear direction and the left-right direction. The first memory contact surface 110b of the first memory contact 110a may be formed at the same height as the first contact arrangement surface of the first memory tag 110. There may be a step between the first contact arrangement surface of the first memory tag 110 and the first memory contact surface 110b of the first memory contact 110a. The first contact arrangement surface of the first memory tag 110 and the first memory contact surface 110b of the first memory contact 110a are exposed from the opening portion 116 of the process cartridge 5.

[0209] On the first contact arrangement surface, the normal direction M1 of the first contact arrangement surface and the first memory contact surface 110b facing the direction in which the first memory contact 110a is exposed faces the same direction as the rotation direction S4. That is, the first contact arrangement surface and the first memory contact surface 110b are arranged to face the same direction as the direction in which the colorant cartridge 9 is attached (rotation direction S4). Therefore, the normal direction M1 of the first contact arrangement surface and the first memory contact surface 110b faces the direction (rotation direction S4) in which the colorant cartridge 9 points from the position 9p (first position) to the position 9r (second position). In other words, the first contact arrangement surface of the first memory tag 110 and the first memory contact surface 110b of the first memory contact 110a face the direction (rotation direction S4) in which the colorant cartridge 9 points from the position 9p (first position) to the position 9r (second position).

[0210] Next, we will refer to Fig.39 and Fig.40 Attachment of the box unit 10 to the apparatus main body 2 is described. Fig.40 1 is a side view showing the relationship between the box unit 10 and the attachment guide. Fig.39As shown, when the box unit 10 is attached to the device body 2, the second memory contact 101a of the second memory tag 101 is electrically connected to the second main body memory contact 103a on the device body 2 side, and thus the transmission of information is performed. Fig.39 As shown, when the box unit 10 is attached to the device body 2, the first memory contact 110a of the first memory tag 110 is electrically connected to the first main body memory contact 104a on the device body 2 side, and thus transmission of information is performed.

[0211] exist Fig.40 , a guide groove 106 is shown by a dotted line, which is a guide for attaching the box unit 10 to the device body 2. The positioned protrusions 105a and 105b provided on the box unit 10 are guided by the guide groove 106, and the box unit 10 is attached to the device body 2. The guide groove 106 is formed in a groove shape through which the positioned protrusions 105a and 105b can pass, and has an upper surface 106a and a lower surface 106b. An inclined surface 106f is formed on the lower surface 106b of the guide groove 106, and the inclined surface is used to guide the box unit 10 downward when the box unit 10 is attached to the deeper side of the device body 2 when the box unit 10 is attached. By guiding the box unit 10 downward using the inclined surface 106f of the guide groove 106, the second memory contact 101a and the first memory contact 110a are respectively contacted with the second main body memory contact 103a and the first main body memory contact 104a.

[0212] The effects of the sixth embodiment will be described below. The effects of the arrangement of the first memory tag 110 in the axial direction will be described. The first memory tag 110 is disposed on the side opposite to the discharge opening 94A of the toner cartridge 9 in the axial direction. This makes it possible to prevent toner contamination of the first memory contact 110a.

[0213] Next, the effect of the arrangement of the first memory label 110 in the cross-sectional direction perpendicular to the axial direction will be described. The first contact arrangement surface and the first memory contact surface 110b are arranged to face the same direction as the direction of attaching the colorant cartridge 9 (rotation direction S4). The frame 610 of the process cartridge 5 to which the colorant cartridge 9 is attached is located in the attachment direction of the colorant cartridge 9. The opening portion 116 is formed in the frame 610 so as to expose the first memory contact surface 110b facing the attachment direction of the colorant cartridge 9 from the frame 610 to the outside. As described above, the first memory contact surface 110b is exposed downward from the box unit 10 so that it can contact the first main body memory contact 104a of the device main body 2.

[0214] Furthermore, as described above, when the box unit 10 is attached to the device body 2, the box unit is guided backward and downward by the attachment guide (guide groove 106), and is attached to the device body 2. Since the first memory contact surface 110b is arranged on the lower surface of the box unit 10, the first memory contact surface 110b is in contact with the first main body memory contact 104a due to the operation when the box unit 10 is attached. Therefore, the first memory contact 110a and the first main body memory contact 104a can be satisfactorily electrically connected to each other. According to the configuration of the sixth embodiment, since it is not necessary to provide the device body 2 with a mechanism for moving the first main body memory contact 104a so as to bring the first main body memory contact 104a into contact with the first memory contact surface 110b, the configuration of the device body 2 can be simplified.

[0215] Seventh embodiment

[0216] Next, the seventh embodiment will be described. In the seventh embodiment, the parts different from those of the above-described embodiments will be described in detail. Unless otherwise specified, the seventh embodiment has the same configuration as each embodiment, and therefore the same parts as those in each embodiment will be represented by the same reference numerals, and their detailed description will be omitted.

[0217] Will refer to Fig.41 and Fig.42 Describes the placement of memory tags. Fig.41 and Fig.42 1 is a perspective view of the toner cartridge 9 and the cartridge unit 10 from obliquely below. Fig.41 As shown, the first memory label 110 is arranged on the T-side retainer L92 of the colorant cartridge 9 so that the first contact arrangement surface and the first memory contact surface 110b of the first memory contact 110a face downward. The first memory label 110 is provided on the left side of the colorant cartridge 9. In addition, the colorant cartridge 9 is provided with the above-mentioned discharge opening 94A on the right side of the colorant cartridge 9. Therefore, in the longitudinal direction (axial direction) of the colorant cartridge 9, the discharge opening 94A is arranged on one end side relative to the center of the colorant cartridge 9, and the first memory label 110 is arranged on the other end side opposite to the one end side relative to the center of the colorant cartridge 9.

[0218] like Fig.42 As shown, the second memory tag 101 is provided on the left side of the lower surface of the box unit 10. In addition, a second relay contact 117c is provided on the left side of the lower surface of the box unit 10, which is electrically connected to the first main body memory contact 104a when the box unit 10 is attached to the device main body 2. The details of the second relay contact 117c will be described later.

[0219] Relay contacts for memory tags

[0220] Will refer to Fig.43 Relay contacts 117 describing the memory tag. Fig.43 is a cross-sectional view of the box unit 10 . Fig.43 The state in which the toner cartridge 9 is attached to the developing unit 7 of the process cartridge 5 constituting the cartridge unit 10 is shown, and the state in which the cartridge unit 10 is attached to the apparatus main body 2 is also shown. The relay contact 117 is provided in the developing unit 7. The relay contact 117 has a first relay contact 117a which is a connection portion connected to the first memory contact 110a, an extension portion 117b extending downward from the first relay contact 117a, and a second relay contact 117c which is a connection portion connected to the apparatus main body 2. The first relay contact 117a and the second relay contact 117c are electrically connected to each other through the extension portion 117b.

[0221] The second relay contact 117c is arranged so that the second relay contact 117c is exposed to the outside from the opening portion 116 formed in the frame 610 of the process cartridge 5. Therefore, the second relay contact 117c and the first main body memory contact 104a of the device main body 2 can be electrically connected to each other. As described above, the first memory contact 110a is electrically connected to the first main body memory contact 104a via the relay contact 117. Therefore, the information stored in the first memory tag 110 can be transmitted to the device main body 2.

[0222] The effects of the seventh embodiment will be described below. The effects of the arrangement of the first memory contact 110a and the relay contact 117 in the axial direction will be described. The first memory contact 110a and the relay contact 117 are arranged on the side opposite to the discharge opening 94A of the toner cartridge 9 in the axial direction. Therefore, toner contamination of the first memory contact 110a and the relay contact 117 can be prevented, and transmission of information to the device body 2 can be reliably performed.

[0223] Next, the effect of the arrangement of the second relay contact 117c in the cross-sectional direction perpendicular to the axial direction will be described. The second relay contact 117c is arranged on the lower surface of the box unit 10. Therefore, as in the case of the sixth embodiment described above, due to the operation when the box unit 10 is attached, the second relay contact 117c and the first main body memory contact 104a can be satisfactorily electrically connected.

[0224] Next, the effect of providing the relay contact 117 will be described. In the above-mentioned sixth embodiment, the toner cartridge 9 is provided with the protruding portion 115 so that the first memory contact 110a arranged in the toner cartridge 9 is exposed to the outside through the opening portion 116 formed in the frame 610 of the process cartridge 5. In addition, the first memory label 110 is arranged at the end of the protruding portion 115. The reason for arranging in this way is that the toner cartridge 9 and the opening portion 116 are separated from each other. In the seventh embodiment, since the relay contact 117 is provided between the toner cartridge 9 and the opening portion 116, it is not necessary to provide the protruding portion 115 on the toner cartridge 9, and the toner cartridge 9 can be miniaturized. In addition, by miniaturizing the toner cartridge 9, it is possible to reduce costs, including the distribution cost of the toner cartridge 9 shipped and sold as a single product.

[0225] Eighth embodiment

[0226] Next, an eighth embodiment will be described. In the eighth embodiment, parts different from those of the above-described embodiments will be described in detail. Unless otherwise specified, the eighth embodiment has the same configuration as each embodiment, and therefore the same parts as those in each embodiment will be represented by the same reference numerals, and their detailed description will be omitted.

[0227] Will refer to Fig.44 Describes the placement of memory tags. Fig.44 1 is a perspective view of the box unit 10 from an oblique bottom. Fig.44 As shown, the second memory tag 101 is arranged on the left side of the lower surface of the box unit 10. On the other hand, the first memory tag 110 is arranged on the right side of the lower surface of the box unit 10. As in the sixth embodiment, the first memory tag 110 is arranged on the lower surface of the colorant cartridge 9 so that the first contact arrangement surface and the first memory contact surface 110b face downward. The first contact arrangement surface and the first memory contact surface 110b are exposed from the opening portion 116 of the frame 610. In other words, in the left-right direction, the first memory tag 110 is arranged on one end side relative to the center of the box unit 10, and the second memory tag 101 is arranged on the other end side relative to the center of the box unit 10. In addition, the second memory tag 101 may also be arranged on one end side relative to the center of the colorant cartridge 9.

[0228] According to the eighth embodiment, as in the sixth embodiment, the second memory tag 101 and the first memory tag 110 are arranged on the lower surface of the box unit 10. Therefore, due to the operation when the box unit 10 is attached, the second memory contact 101a and the first memory contact 110a can be satisfactorily electrically connected to the second main body memory contact 103a and the first main body memory contact 104a, respectively. In addition, as another configuration related to the eighth embodiment, the first memory contact 110a can be the second relay contact 117c as in the seventh embodiment. In this way as well, the information of the first memory tag 110 can be satisfactorily transmitted to the device main body 2.

[0229] Ninth embodiment

[0230] Next, a ninth embodiment will be described. In the ninth embodiment, parts different from those of the above-described embodiments will be described in detail. Unless otherwise specified, the ninth embodiment has the same configuration as each embodiment, and therefore the same parts as those in each embodiment will be represented by the same reference numerals, and their detailed description will be omitted.

[0231] Fig.45 1 is a cross-sectional view of a box unit 10 according to a ninth embodiment. Fig.45 As shown, the frame 201 of the photosensitive member unit 6 is provided with a cover member 202, a waste toner unit 210, and a corona charging device 68. The corona charging device 68 includes a wire member 68a as a metal member and a frame 68b as a metal member, and different voltage biases are applied to the wire member and the frame from the apparatus body 2. The developing unit 7 is provided with a second memory tag 101 as a second storage member, and the toner cartridge 9 is provided with a first memory tag 102 as a first storage member. Here, the component in which the developing unit 7 is attached to the photosensitive member unit 6 and integrated with the photosensitive member unit is referred to as a process cartridge 5.

[0232] Through holes 911b are provided in the side walls of the container member 911 of the toner cartridge 9 on both sides in the left-right direction, and the through holes 911b are closed by the transparent cover member 920. The T-side retainer L92 and the T-side retainer R93 of the toner cartridge 9 (see Fig.12 ) are respectively provided with a retainer L through hole 92g and a retainer R through hole 93b coaxial with the through hole 911b (see Fig.56 ).

[0233] Will refer to Fig.46A and Fig.46B , Fig.47A and Fig.47B The configuration of the waste toner unit 210 is described. Fig.46A and Fig.46B is a perspective view of the waste toner unit 210 . Fig.47A andFig.47B 2 is an exploded perspective view of the waste toner unit 210. The waste toner unit 210 includes a waste toner container 212, a container cover 211, a recovery roller 62 as a first roller, a stripping roller 250 as a second roller, and a biasing member 240. The recovery roller 62 has a metal shaft covered with a conductive sponge member as a roller portion. In addition, the stripping roller 250 is made of metal, wherein both the shaft portion and the roller portion are integrated with the metal.

[0234] The shaft portions at both ends of the recovery roller 62 are supported by the first shaft hole 212d and the second shaft hole 212e of the waste toner container 212, and therefore, the recovery roller 62 is rotatably supported. In addition, the shaft portions at both ends of the stripping roller 250 are supported by the third shaft hole 212c and the fourth shaft hole 212f of the waste toner container 212, and therefore, the stripping roller 250 is rotatably supported. The surface of the recovery roller 62 and the surface of the stripping roller 250 are in contact with each other (see Fig.45 ). After the recovery roller 62 and the peeling roller 250 are incorporated into the waste toner container 212 , the container cover 211 is fixed to the waste toner container 212 .

[0235] The recovery roller gear 232 and the peeling roller gear 231 are fixed to the left shaft of the recovery roller 62 and the left shaft of the peeling roller 250, respectively. In addition, the support shaft 212b is provided on the left wall of the waste toner container 212, and the first idler gear 230 is rotatably supported thereon. The first idler gear 230 is connected to the photosensitive member gear (first gear) 65 (see Figure 8 The driving force from the photosensitive drum 61 is sequentially transmitted to the first idler gear 230, the peeling roller gear 231 and the recovery roller gear 232, thereby rotating and driving the recovery roller 62 and the peeling roller 250.

[0236] The recovery roller electrode 220 and the stripping roller electrode 221 formed of a conductive resin are respectively fixed to the right shaft of the recovery roller 62 and the right shaft of the stripping roller 250 so as to be rotatable and slidable. Two fixing protrusions 212g are provided on the outer side of the rear side wall of the waste colorant container 212, and the biasing member 240 is fixed to each of the two fixing protrusions. The sealing sheet 260 is a sheet-shaped plastic member, and the sealing sheet is provided below the opening portion 212a of the waste colorant container 212. One end side of the sealing sheet 260 is fixed to the waste colorant container 212, and the other end side is in contact with the recovery roller 62.

[0237] Will refer to Fig.48 Attachment of the waste toner unit 210 to the photosensitive member unit 6 is described. Fig.48 2 is a perspective view of the photosensitive member unit 6 and the waste toner unit 210. Fig.48As shown, the waste toner unit 210 is attached through the opening hole 201a of the frame 201 of the photosensitive member unit 6. Thereafter, the cover member 202 is attached to the frame 201, and the waste toner unit 210 is attached to the photosensitive member unit 6. The waste toner unit 210 is movably held in the direction of the photosensitive drum 61 by a guide rail (not shown) provided on the frame 201. In addition, the biasing member 240 contacts the contact wall 201b of the frame 201 (see Fig.45 ), and the pressing force of the biasing member biases the recovery roller 62 in the direction of the photosensitive drum 61, so that the surface of the recovery roller 62 contacts the surface of the photosensitive drum 61.

[0238] A predetermined voltage is applied from the apparatus body 2 to the recovery roller 62 and the stripping roller 250 via the recovery roller electrode 220 and the stripping roller electrode 221, respectively. The recovery roller 62 collects the paper powder and the toner adhering to the surface of the photosensitive drum 61. In addition, the stripping roller 250 strips the paper powder and the toner adhering to the surface of the recovery roller 62. The stripped toner is collected in the waste toner container 212. The sealing sheet 260 prevents the collected toner from leaking from the lower portion of the opening portion 212a of the waste toner container 212 and the recovery roller 62.

[0239] Fig.49 and Fig.50 1 is a perspective view of a box unit 10 according to a ninth embodiment. Fig.49 As shown, the first memory tag 102 is disposed at the discharge opening 94A (see Fig.13 ) side is arranged on the upper surface of the toner cartridge 9. Fig.50 As shown, the second memory tag 101 is connected to the developing coupling 710 (see Figure 4 and Fig. 9 ) side is arranged at the lower part of the developing unit 7.

[0240] Will refer to Figure 51 to Figure 54 The arrangement of components of the box unit 10 according to the ninth embodiment is described. Figure 51 to Figure 54 1 is a cross-sectional view of the box unit 10. Fig.51As shown, the drum tube (aluminum tube) 61a of the photosensitive drum 61 and the metal frame 68a of the corona charger 68 are arranged in the cross-sectional direction within the projection range (range between line segments L1 and L2) of the outer contour from the recovery roller 62 toward the first memory tag 102. The aluminum tube 61a and the metal frame 68a are made of metal. When viewed along the axial direction, the line segment L1 is a tangent (first tangent) passing through one end of the first memory tag 102 and contacting the recovery roller 62. The line segment L2 is a tangent (second tangent) passing through the other end of the first memory tag 102 and contacting the recovery roller 62. The aluminum tube 61a of the photosensitive drum 61 and the metal frame 68a of the corona charger 68 overlap with the area separated or surrounded by the line segment L1, the line segment L2, the first memory tag 102 and the recovery roller 62.

[0241] according to Fig.51 In the configuration shown in , even in the case where electromagnetic noise is generated from the recovery roller 62 to which power is supplied from the device body 2, the electromagnetic noise toward the first memory tag 102 is electromagnetically shielded by the metal aluminum tube 61a and the metal frame 68a. Therefore, the electromagnetic noise originating from the recovery roller 62 and radiated to the first memory tag 102 is reduced, thereby stabilizing the operation of the first memory tag 102.

[0242] Similarly, if Fig.51 As shown, the aluminum tube 61a is arranged in the cross-sectional direction within the projection range (the range between line segments L3 and L4) of the outer contour from the recovery roller 62 toward the second memory tag 101. When viewed along the axial direction, the line segment L3 is a tangent line passing through one end of the second memory tag 101 and in contact with the recovery roller 62. The line segment L4 is a tangent line passing through the other end of the second memory tag 101 and in contact with the recovery roller 62. The aluminum tube 61a of the photosensitive drum 61 overlaps with the area separated or surrounded by the line segment L3, the line segment L4, the second memory tag 101 and the recovery roller 62. According to Fig.51 In the configuration shown, even if electromagnetic noise is generated from the recovery roller 62 (electricity is supplied to the recovery roller from the device body 2), the electromagnetic noise directed to the second memory tag 101 is electromagnetically shielded by the metal aluminum tube 61a. Therefore, the electromagnetic noise originating from the recovery roller 62 and radiated to the second memory tag 101 is reduced, thereby stabilizing the operation of the second memory tag 101.

[0243] like Fig.52As shown, the aluminum tube 61a is arranged in the cross-sectional direction within the projection range (the range between line segments L5 and L6) of the outer contour of the first memory tag 102 from the contact area N1 between the recovery roller 62 and the photosensitive drum 61. The recovery roller 62 contacts the photosensitive drum 61 at the contact area N1 (first contact point). When viewed along the axial direction, the line segment L5 is a straight line (first straight line) connecting one end of the first memory tag 102 to the contact area N1, and the line segment L6 is a straight line (second straight line) connecting the other end of the first memory tag 102 to the contact area N1. The aluminum tube 61a overlaps with the area separated or surrounded by the line segment L5, the line segment L6, and the first memory tag 102. According to Fig.52 In the configuration shown, even in the case where electromagnetic noise is generated from the contact area N1 between the recovery roller 62 and the photosensitive drum 61 to which power is supplied from the device body 2, the electromagnetic noise directed to the first memory tag 102 is electromagnetically shielded by the aluminum tube 61a. Therefore, the electromagnetic noise originating from the contact area N1 between the recovery roller 62 and the photosensitive drum 61 and radiated to the first memory tag 102 is reduced, thereby stabilizing the operation of the first memory tag 102.

[0244] Similarly, if Fig.52 As shown, the aluminum tube 61a is arranged in the cross-sectional direction within the projection range (the range between line segments L7 and L8) of the outer contour from the contact area N1 between the recovery roller 62 and the photosensitive drum 61 toward the second memory tag 101. When viewed along the axial direction, the line segment L7 is a straight line connecting one end of the second memory tag 101 to the contact area N1, and the line segment L8 is a straight line connecting the other end of the second memory tag 101 to the contact area N1. The aluminum tube 61a overlaps with the area separated or surrounded by the line segment L7, the line segment L8, and the second memory tag 101. According to Fig.52 In the configuration shown, even in the case where electromagnetic noise is generated from the contact area N1 between the recovery roller 62 and the photosensitive drum 61 to which power is supplied from the device body 2, the electromagnetic noise directed to the second memory tag 101 is electromagnetically shielded by the aluminum tube 61a. Therefore, the electromagnetic noise originating from the contact area N1 between the recovery roller 62 and the photosensitive drum 61 and radiated to the second memory tag 101 is reduced, thereby stabilizing the operation of the second memory tag 101.

[0245] like Fig.53As shown, the metal frame 68a of the corona charger 68 is arranged in the cross-sectional direction within the projection range (the range between line segments L9 and L10) of the outer contour from the peeling roller 250 toward the first memory tag 102. The peeling roller 250 is in contact with the recovery roller 62. When viewed along the axial direction, the line segment L10 is a tangent line (third tangent line) passing through one end of the first memory tag 102 and in contact with the peeling roller 250, and the line segment L9 is a tangent line (fourth tangent line) passing through the other end of the first memory tag 102 and in contact with the peeling roller 250. The metal frame 68a of the corona charger 68 overlaps with the area separated or surrounded by the line segment L9, the line segment L10, the first memory tag 102 and the peeling roller 250. According to Fig.53 In the configuration shown, even in the case where electromagnetic noise is generated from the peeling roller 250 (power is supplied to the peeling roller from the device body 2), the electromagnetic noise directed to the first memory tag 102 is electromagnetically shielded by the metal frame 68a. Therefore, the electromagnetic noise originating from the peeling roller 250 and radiated to the first memory tag 102 is reduced, thereby stabilizing the operation of the first memory tag 102.

[0246] Similarly, if Fig.53 As shown, the aluminum tube 61a is arranged in the cross-sectional direction within the projection range of the outer contour from the peeling roller 250 toward the second memory tag 101 (the range between the line segments L11 and L12). When viewed along the axial direction, the line segment L11 is a tangent that passes through one end of the second memory tag 101 and contacts the peeling roller 250, and the line segment L12 is a tangent that passes through the other end of the second memory tag 102 and contacts the peeling roller 250. The aluminum tube 61a overlaps with the area separated or surrounded by the line segment L11, the line segment L12, the second memory tag 101, and the peeling roller 250. According to Fig.53 In the configuration shown, even in the case where electromagnetic noise is generated from the peeling roller 250 to which power is supplied from the device body 2, the electromagnetic noise directed to the second memory tag 101 is electromagnetically shielded by the aluminum tube 61a. Therefore, the electromagnetic noise originating from the peeling roller 250 and radiated to the second memory tag 101 is reduced, thereby stabilizing the operation of the second memory tag 101.

[0247] like Fig.54As shown, the metal frame 68a is arranged in the cross-sectional direction within the projection range (the range between line segments L13 and L14) of the outer contour of the first memory tag 102 from the contact area N2 between the peeling roller 250 and the recovery roller 62. The peeling roller 250 contacts the recovery roller 62 at the contact area N2 (the second contact point). When viewed along the axial direction, the line segment L13 is a straight line connecting one end of the first memory tag 102 to the contact area N2 (the third straight line), and the line segment L14 is a straight line connecting the other end of the first memory tag 102 to the contact area N2 (the fourth straight line). The metal frame 68a overlaps with the area separated or surrounded by the line segment L13, the line segment L14, and the first memory tag 102. According to Fig.54 In the configuration shown, even in the case where electromagnetic noise is generated from the contact area N1 between the peeling roller 250 and the recovery roller 62 to which power is supplied from the device body 2, the electromagnetic noise directed to the first memory tag 102 is electromagnetically shielded by the metal frame 68a. Therefore, the electromagnetic noise originating from the contact area N2 between the peeling roller 250 and the recovery roller 62 and radiated to the first memory tag 102 is reduced, thereby stabilizing the operation of the first memory tag 102.

[0248] Similarly, if Fig.54 As shown, the aluminum tube 61a is arranged in the cross-sectional direction within the projection range (the range between line segments L15 and L16) of the outer contour of the second memory tag 101 from the contact area N2 between the peeling roller 250 and the recovery roller 62. When viewed along the axial direction, the line segment L15 is a straight line connecting one end of the first memory tag 102 to the contact area N2, and the line segment L16 is a straight line connecting the other end of the first memory tag 102 to the contact area N2. The aluminum tube 61a overlaps with the area separated or surrounded by the line segment L15, the line segment L16, and the first memory tag 102. According to Fig.54 In the configuration shown, even in the case where electromagnetic noise is generated from the contact area N2 between the peeling roller 250 and the recovery roller 62 to which power is supplied from the device body 2, the electromagnetic noise directed to the second memory tag 101 is electromagnetically shielded by the aluminum tube 61a. Therefore, the electromagnetic noise originating from the contact area N2 between the peeling roller 250 and the recovery roller 62 and radiated to the second memory tag 101 is reduced, thereby stabilizing the operation of the second memory tag 101.

[0249] Will refer to Fig.55 The arrangement of components of the box unit 10 according to the ninth embodiment is described. Fig.55 1 is a diagram of the box unit 10 when viewed from above. Fig.55 In order to facilitate the explanation, some components are omitted. Fig.55As shown, the first memory tag 102 is arranged inwardly (at the left and right direction of the cartridge unit 10) from both end portions of the aluminum tube 61a of the photosensitive drum 61 in the axial direction (the left-right direction of the cartridge unit 10). Fig.55 Similarly, the first memory tag 102 is arranged inwardly from both end portions of the metal frame 68a of the corona charging device 68 in the axial direction (within the range indicated by the arrow W1 in FIG. 1 ). Fig.55 within the range indicated by arrow W2).

[0250] Furthermore, the roller portions of the recovery roller 62 and the peeling roller 250 are arranged inwardly from both end portions of the aluminum tube 61a of the photosensitive drum 61 (at Fig.55 Similarly, the roller portions of the recovery roller and the peeling roller are arranged inwardly from both end portions of the metal frame 68a of the corona charging device 68 (within the range indicated by the arrow W1 in FIG. 1 ). Fig.55 With the configuration described above, electromagnetic shielding is performed against electromagnetic noise radiation from all positions in the left-right direction (such as from the recovery roller 62 and the peeling roller 250 and from the contact areas N1 and N2 of the respective rollers) toward the above-mentioned memory tag 102. Therefore, the operation of the first memory tag 102 is stable.

[0251] The second memory tag 101 can be arranged at a position similar to that of the first memory tag 102 in the left-right direction. With the configuration, electromagnetic shielding is performed against electromagnetic noise radiation from all positions in the left-right direction, such as from the recovery roller 62 and the peeling roller 250 and from the contact areas N1 and N2 of the respective rollers. Therefore, the operation of the second memory tag 101 is stable.

[0252] Here, a configuration for detecting the amount of toner in the toner cartridge 9 will be described. Fig.48 As shown, the side holder 719 of the developing unit 7 is provided with a side holder through-hole 719b, and the receiving port cover 774 is provided with a receiving port cover through-hole 774d. Fig.56 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the toner amount detection unit of the cartridge unit 10 in the left-right direction. The side retainer through hole 719b, the receiving port cover through hole 774d, the through hole 911b of the container member 911 (see Fig.45 )、The through hole 92g of the retaining member L and the through hole 93b of the retaining member R are Fig.56 When the box unit 10 is attached to the apparatus body 2, the light emitting element 280 is provided on one end side of the toner container 910, and the light receiving element 281 is provided on the other end side of the toner container 910. Light from the light emitting element 280 passes through the toner container 910 of the toner cartridge 9 and is detected by the light receiving element 281.

[0253] The amount of light detected by the light receiving element 281 and the change in the amount of light over time vary according to the amount of the residual toner T stirred in the toner container 910. The amount of the residual toner T in the toner cartridge 9 can be detected by changing the detection light of the light receiving element 281. According to the configuration, when the amount of toner in the toner cartridge 9 becomes low, the user can be notified and can be prompted to replace the toner cartridge 9. In addition, the first memory tag 102 stores information on the amount of the toner T contained in the toner cartridge 9.

[0254] [Tenth embodiment]

[0255] Next, the tenth embodiment will be described. In the tenth embodiment, parts different from those of the above-described embodiments will be described in detail. Unless otherwise specified, the tenth embodiment has the same configuration as each embodiment, and thus parts identical to those in each embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted. In the tenth embodiment, the arrangement of the first memory tag 102 of the ninth embodiment is changed.

[0256] Fig.57 1 is a perspective view of a box unit 10 according to a tenth embodiment. Fig.57 As shown, in the up-down direction, the first memory tag 102 is located at the discharge opening 94A (see Fig.13 ) is arranged on the upper surface of the toner cartridge 9 on the side opposite to the side on which it is arranged. The position of the first memory tag 102 in the cross-sectional direction is the same as that of the ninth embodiment (see Figure 51 to Figure 54 ). With this configuration, when the user attaches and detaches the toner cartridge 9 to and from the process cartridge 5, the first memory tag 102 can be prevented from being contaminated by the toner scattered from the discharge opening 94A. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the information transmission between the first memory tag 102 and the device body 2 from becoming unstable due to the toner contamination of the first memory contact 102a. In addition, since the arrangement of the components in the cross-sectional direction is the same as that of the ninth embodiment, electromagnetic noise radiation from the recovery roller 62 and the peeling roller 250 is electromagnetically shielded.

[0257] Furthermore, in the tenth embodiment, the first memory tag 102 is disposed at a position adjacent to the recovery roller electrode 220 (see Fig.48 ) and the peeling roller electrode 221 (see Fig.48) on the opposite side. The electrodes (not shown) of the device body 2 are in contact with the recovery roller electrode 220 and the peeling roller electrode 221, and thus the power supply unit receives power supplied to the recovery roller 62 and the peeling roller 250 from the device body 2. The power supply unit is provided on the side opposite to the first memory tag 102 in the left-right direction (axis direction). In the axis direction, the power supply unit is arranged on one end side relative to the center of the box unit 10, and the first memory tag 102 is arranged on the other end side opposite to the one end side relative to the center of the box unit 10. With the described construction, the distance between the power supply unit and the first memory tag 102 can be increased. By doing so, even in the case where electromagnetic noise is generated at the electrode contact area, the distance from the generation source to the first memory tag 102 is increased, and thus the influence of the electromagnetic noise on the first memory tag 102 can be reduced. Therefore, the operation of the first memory tag 102 is stable.

[0258] According to the present invention, in the case where the toner cartridge includes the storage member, the storage member can be appropriately arranged.

[0259] As described above, the present application includes the following configurations.

[0260] (Construction 1)

[0261] A box unit, comprising:

[0262] a first unit including a photosensitive drum, a developing roller, a first supporting portion, and a second supporting portion; and

[0263] a second unit configured to be attachable to and detachable from the first unit, the second unit including a first supported portion supported by the first supporting portion, a second supported portion supported by the second supporting portion, and a first storage member storing information, and the second unit is configured to supply a developer to the first unit, the first storage member including a first storage element, a first storage contact electrically connected to the first storage element, and a first contact arrangement surface on which the first storage contact is arranged,

[0264] wherein the second unit is configured to rotate from a first position to a second position in a state where the first supported portion is supported by the first supporting portion and the second supported portion is supported by the second supporting portion, so that the second unit is positioned relative to the first unit,

[0265] The second unit rotates from the first position to the second position so that the first supported portion and the second supported portion are the rotation center of the second unit, and

[0266] A normal direction of the first contact arrangement surface faces a direction in which the first memory contact is exposed, and the normal direction of the first contact arrangement surface faces a direction opposite to a direction in which the second unit is directed from the first position to the second position.

[0267] (Construction 2)

[0268] According to the box unit of configuration 1,

[0269] wherein the second unit includes a developer discharge opening for discharging the developer to the first unit, and

[0270] The developer discharge opening and the first storage member are provided on one end side with respect to a center of the second unit in a longitudinal direction of the second unit.

[0271] (Construction 3)

[0272] According to the box unit described in configuration 2,

[0273] wherein the first unit includes an operating member that moves the second unit in a direction to detach the second unit from the first unit, and

[0274] The operation member is arranged on another end side opposite to the one end side with respect to the center of the second unit in the longitudinal direction of the second unit.

[0275] (Construction 4)

[0276] According to the box unit of configuration 1,

[0277] wherein the second unit includes a developer discharge opening for discharging the developer to the first unit,

[0278] The developer discharge opening is arranged on one end side with respect to the center of the second unit in the longitudinal direction of the second unit, and

[0279] The first storage member is arranged on the other end side opposite to the one end side with respect to the center of the second unit.

[0280] (Construction 5)

[0281] A cartridge unit that is attachable to and detachable from a device main body of an image forming device, the device main body including a positioning portion and a rotation restricting portion, the cartridge unit comprising:

[0282] a first unit, the first unit comprising a photosensitive drum and a developing roller;

[0283] a second unit configured to be attachable to and detachable from the first unit, the second unit including a first storage member storing information, and the second unit configured to supply a developer to the first unit, the first storage member including a first storage element, a first storage contact electrically connected to the first storage element, and a first contact arrangement surface on which the first storage contact is arranged;

[0284] a positioned portion, the positioned portion being in contact with the positioning portion; and

[0285] a rotation restricted portion which contacts the rotation restricting portion and restricts rotation about the positioned portion,

[0286] wherein the first contact arrangement surface faces a direction opposite to a direction in which the rotation restricted portion is pressed against the rotation restricting portion.

[0287] (Construction 6)

[0288] According to the box unit described in configuration 5,

[0289] wherein the second unit has a developer discharge opening for discharging the developer to the first unit, and

[0290] The developer discharge opening and the first storage member are arranged on one end side with respect to a center of the second unit in a longitudinal direction of the second unit.

[0291] (Construction 7)

[0292] The box unit according to configuration 6, further comprising a supporting member provided in the first unit so as to support the second unit on the first unit,

[0293] wherein the supporting member is arranged on another end side opposite to the one end side with respect to the center of the second unit in the longitudinal direction of the second unit.

[0294] (Construction 8)

[0295] According to the box unit described in configuration 5,

[0296] wherein the second unit includes a developer discharge opening for discharging the developer to the first unit,

[0297] The developer discharge opening is arranged on one end side with respect to the center of the second unit in the longitudinal direction of the second unit, and

[0298] The first storage member is arranged on the other end side opposite to the one end side with respect to the center of the second unit.

[0299] (Construction 9)

[0300] A cartridge unit according to Configuration 5, wherein a distance between the first memory contact and the positioned portion is longer than a distance between the positioned portion and the rotation restricted portion.

[0301] (Construction 10)

[0302] A box unit according to any one of configurations 1 to 9, wherein the first storage member is arranged on a top surface of the second unit in a posture in which the box unit is used.

[0303] (Construction 11)

[0304] A cartridge unit that is attachable to and detachable from a device main body of an image forming device, the cartridge unit comprising:

[0305] a first unit including a photosensitive drum and a developing roller; and

[0306] a second unit configured to be attachable to and detachable from the first unit, the second unit including a first storage member storing information, and the second unit configured to supply a developer to the first unit, the first storage member including a first storage element, a first storage contact electrically connected to the first storage element, and a first contact arrangement surface on which the first storage contact is arranged,

[0307] wherein the second unit is configured to be attachable to and detachable from the device main body in a state where the second unit is attached to the first unit,

[0308] The second unit includes an end surface at an end portion of the second unit along the rotation axis direction of the developing roller, the end surface extending in a direction intersecting the rotation axis direction of the developing roller, and

[0309] The first storage member is arranged on the end surface.

[0310] (Construction 12)

[0311] A box unit according to configuration 11, wherein the first memory contact is arranged at a position that protrudes most outward in the rotation axis direction.

[0312] (Construction 13)

[0313] According to the box unit of configuration 11,

[0314] wherein the device body includes a main body memory contact which contacts the first memory contact when the box unit is attached to the device body, and

[0315] The second unit includes a positioning portion that determines a position of the body memory contact.

[0316] (Construction 14)

[0317] According to the box unit of configuration 11,

[0318] wherein the second unit comprises a first frame and a support portion, the support portion supports the first storage member and is movable relative to the first frame, and

[0319] When the direction of the rotation axis is defined as a first direction, the direction perpendicular to the first direction is defined as a second direction, and the direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction is defined as a third direction, the supporting part is configured to be able to move in each of the first direction, the second direction and the third direction relative to the first frame.

[0320] (Construction 15)

[0321] A box unit, comprising:

[0322] a first unit including a photosensitive drum and a developing roller; and

[0323] a second unit configured to be attachable to and detachable from the first unit, the second unit including a first storage member storing information, and the second unit configured to supply a developer to the first unit, the first storage member including a first storage element, a first storage contact electrically connected to the first storage element, and a first contact arrangement surface on which the first storage contact is arranged,

[0324] wherein the second unit is configured to move from a first position to a second position so that the second unit is positioned relative to the first unit in a state where the second unit is in contact with the first unit,

[0325] The first contact arrangement surface faces the direction in which the second unit is directed from the first position to the second position, and

[0326] The first unit includes an opening portion exposing the first contact arrangement surface.

[0327] (Construction 16)

[0328] According to the box unit of configuration 15,

[0329] wherein the second unit includes a developer discharge opening for discharging the developer to the first unit, and

[0330] The developer discharge opening is arranged on one end side relative to a center of the second unit in a longitudinal direction of the second unit, and the first storage member is arranged on another end side opposite to the one end side relative to the center of the second unit.

[0331] (Construction 17)

[0332] According to the box unit of configuration 15,

[0333] wherein the second unit includes a developer discharge opening for discharging the developer to the first unit, and

[0334] The developer discharge opening and the first storage member are arranged on one end side with respect to a center of the second unit in a longitudinal direction of the second unit.

[0335] (Construction 18)

[0336] A box unit according to any one of configurations 15 to 17, wherein the first storage member is arranged on a bottom surface of the second unit in a posture when the box unit is used.

[0337] (Construction 19)

[0338] The box unit according to any one of configurations 1 to 18,

[0339] wherein the first unit comprises a second storage component for storing information, and

[0340] The second storage member includes a second storage element and a second storage contact electrically connected to the second storage element.

[0341] (Construction 20)

[0342] According to the box unit of configuration 19,

[0343] wherein the first storage member is arranged on one end side relative to the center of the box unit in the longitudinal direction of the box unit, and

[0344] The second storing member is arranged on the other end side opposite to the one end side with respect to the center of the box unit.

[0345] (Construction 21)

[0346] A box unit, comprising:

[0347] a first unit including a photosensitive drum, a developing roller, a metal member, a transfer roller, and a first roller in contact with the photosensitive drum; and

[0348] a second unit configured to be attachable to and detachable from the first unit, the second unit including a first storage member storing information, and the second unit configured to supply a developer to the first unit, the first storage member including a first storage element, and a first storage contact electrically connected to the first storage element,

[0349] Wherein, when observed along the axial direction of the photosensitive drum, and when a tangent passing through one end of the first storage member and in contact with the first roller is defined as a first tangent and a tangent passing through the other end of the first storage member and in contact with the first roller is defined as a second tangent, at least a portion of the metal member or at least a portion of the photosensitive drum overlaps with an area surrounded by the first tangent, the second tangent, the first storage member and the first roller.

[0350] (Construction 22)

[0351] According to the box unit of configuration 21,

[0352] wherein the first roller contacts the photosensitive drum at a first contact point, and

[0353] When observed along the axial direction of the photosensitive drum, and when a straight line connecting the one end of the first storage member to the first contact point is defined as a first straight line and a straight line connecting the other end of the first storage member to the first contact point is defined as a second straight line, at least a portion of the metal member or at least a portion of the photosensitive drum overlaps with an area surrounded by the first straight line, the second straight line and the first storage member.

[0354] (Construction 23)

[0355] The box unit according to configuration 21 or 22 further includes a second roller, the second roller being in contact with the first roller,

[0356] Wherein, when observed along the axial direction of the photosensitive drum, and a tangent passing through one end of the first storage member and in contact with the second roller is defined as a third tangent, and a tangent passing through the other end of the first storage member and in contact with the first roller is defined as a fourth tangent, at least a portion of the metal member or at least a portion of the photosensitive drum overlaps with an area surrounded by the third tangent, the fourth tangent, the first storage member and the second roller.

[0357] (Construction 24)

[0358] According to the box unit of configuration 23,

[0359] wherein the second roller contacts the first roller at a second contact point, and

[0360] When observed along the axial direction of the photosensitive drum, and a straight line connecting the one end of the first storage member and the second contact point is defined as a third straight line and a straight line connecting the other end of the first storage member and the second contact point is defined as a fourth straight line, at least a portion of the metal member or at least a portion of the photosensitive drum overlaps with an area surrounded by the third straight line, the fourth straight line and the first storage member.

[0361] (Construction 25)

[0362] A cartridge unit according to any one of Configurations 21 to 24, wherein the first storing member is provided inwardly from both end portions of the photosensitive drum or a corona charging device in the axis direction of the photosensitive drum.

[0363] (Construction 26)

[0364] The box unit according to any one of configurations 21 to 25,

[0365] wherein the second unit includes a developer discharge opening for discharging the developer to the first unit, and

[0366] The developer discharge opening and the first storage member are arranged on one end side with respect to a center of the second unit in a longitudinal direction of the second unit.

[0367] (Construction 27)

[0368] The box unit according to any one of configurations 21 to 25,

[0369] wherein the second unit includes a developer discharge opening for discharging the developer to the first unit, and

[0370] The developer discharge opening is arranged on one end side relative to the center of the second unit in the longitudinal direction of the second unit, and the first storage member is arranged on the other end side opposite to the one end side relative to the center of the second unit.

[0371] (Construction 28)

[0372] A cassette unit according to any one of configurations 21 to 25, further comprising a power supply portion that receives power supplied from the apparatus main body to the first roller,

[0373] wherein the power supply portion is arranged on one end side of the cartridge unit in the axial direction of the photosensitive drum, and the first storage member is arranged on the other end side of the cartridge unit.

[0374] While the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments.The scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. A box unit that can be attached to and detached from a main body of an image forming apparatus, the box unit comprising: a first unit including a photosensitive drum, a developing roller, a first relay contact, and a second relay contact electrically connected to the first relay contact, the second relay contact being configured to be electrically connected to a main body contact of the main body; as well as a second unit configured to be attachable to and detachable from the first unit, the second unit being provided with a discharge opening for discharging toner toward the first unit, and comprising a first storage member storing information, the first storage member comprising a first storage element, and a first storage contact electrically connected to the first storage element; wherein, in a state where the second unit is attached to the first unit, the first memory contact is electrically connected to the first relay contact, and wherein, relative to the longitudinal direction of the second unit, the discharge opening is located on a first side of the box unit relative to the center of the second unit, and the second relay contact is located on a second side of the box unit opposite to the first side of the box unit relative to the center of the second unit.

2. The box unit according to claim 1, wherein: The second relay contact is arranged in a lower surface of the box unit in a state in which the box unit is attached to the main body. 3 . The box unit according to claim 1 , the first unit comprising a connection member electrically connected to the first relay contact and the second relay contact, wherein the connection member extends downward from the first relay contact in a state in which the box unit is attached to the body.

4. The box unit according to claim 1, wherein: The first unit includes a first frame provided with an opening, and the second relay contact is exposed from the opening.

5. The box unit according to claim 1, wherein: The first unit includes a first supporting portion and a second supporting portion, and the second unit includes a first supported portion configured to be supported by the first supporting portion and a second supported portion configured to be supported by the second supporting portion. The second unit is configured to rotate from a first position to a second position in a state where the first supported portion is supported by the first supporting portion and the second supported portion is supported by the second supporting portion, thereby positioning the second unit relative to the first unit.

6. The box unit according to claim 5, wherein: The second unit rotates from the first position to the second position so that the first supported portion and the second supported portion are the rotation center of the second unit. 7 . The box unit according to claim 5 , the second unit comprising a discharge side shutter movable between (i) a first open position in which the discharge opening is opened and (ii) a first closed position in which the discharge opening is closed. 8 . The magazine unit according to claim 7 , wherein the discharge-side shutter is rotatable between a first open position and a first closed position. 9 . The cartridge unit according to claim 7 , the second unit comprising a discharge member provided with a discharge opening, the discharge side shutter being arranged inside the discharge member.

10. A box unit according to claim 9, wherein the first unit is provided with a receiving opening configured to receive the colorant discharged from the discharge opening, and a receiving side shutter capable of moving between a second open position where the receiving opening is opened and a second closed position where the receiving opening is closed. 11 . The magazine unit according to claim 10 , the receiving-side shutter being configured to move from the second closed position to the second open position in cooperation with rotation of the second unit from the first position to the second position.

12. The box unit according to claim 5, wherein: The first unit includes a lifting member configured to move the second unit from the second position toward the first position.

13. The box unit according to claim 12, wherein: The lifting member is located at a second side of the box unit with respect to a longitudinal direction of the second unit.

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