imaging device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an image forming apparatus including an image bearing member, a frame member including a support surface and made of metal, an exposure unit arranged such that an emission direction of light emitted to the image bearing member is inclined with respect to the support surface, a support member made of metal and configured to support the exposure unit in an inclined posture with respect to the support surface, and a positioning member made of resin and configured to be in contact with and position the exposure unit. The support surface of the frame member is in contact with at least one of the support member or the positioning member, and wherein the exposure unit is configured to be attached to the frame member via the support member and the positioning member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an imaging device for forming images on a sheet. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, electrophotographic imaging devices include an exposure unit (also known as a laser scanner unit) that forms an electrostatic latent image on a photosensitive drum by emitting a laser beam onto the drum. Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-042055 discloses an exposure unit fixed to a frame body (e.g., a metal plate strut made of metal). The metal plate strut connects a pair of side plates arranged on two edge sides in the width direction of the imaging device such that the side plates face each other. If the exposure unit vibrates during imaging operation, image defects may occur. Therefore, the exposure unit is fixed to a metal plate strut with high rigidity to reduce vibration of the exposure unit.

[0003] Incidentally, the imaging device contains numerous components, including circuit boards and motors. To reduce the installation space of the imaging device and to lower costs and save resources in its production, it is desirable to reduce its size and weight. Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-20932 describes the structure of an imaging device in which the size of the imaging device is reduced by designing the arrangement of components including a low-voltage power supply section, a high-voltage power supply section, and a motor. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one aspect of the invention, an imaging apparatus includes: an image carrier member configured to rotate; a frame member including a support surface and made of metal; an exposure unit configured to emit light toward a surface of the image carrier member and form an electrostatic latent image thereon, the exposure unit being arranged such that, when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis of the image carrier member, the emission direction of the light emitted onto the image carrier member is inclined relative to the support surface; a support member made of metal and configured to support the exposure unit in an inclined posture relative to the support surface; and a positioning member made of resin and configured to contact and position the exposure unit, wherein the support surface of the frame member contacts at least one of the support member or the positioning member, and wherein the exposure unit is configured to be attached to the frame member via the support member and the positioning member.

[0005] According to another aspect of the present invention, an imaging device includes: an image carrier member configured to rotate; a first metal plate configured to support a first end portion of the image carrier member in a direction of rotation axis of the image carrier member; a second metal plate configured to support a second end portion of the image carrier member opposite to the first end portion in the direction of rotation axis of the image carrier member; a frame member disposed between the first metal plate and the second metal plate in the direction of rotation axis of the image carrier member and connected to each of the first metal plate and the second metal plate; and a motor configured to drive at least one of the image carrier member, a conveying member, or a processing member, the conveying member being configured to convey recording material. The processing component is configured to form an image on a recording material. The motor is arranged on the first metal plate and positioned between the first and second metal plates in the direction of rotation. The frame component includes a reinforcing surface formed in a region along the direction of rotation where no motor is arranged. When viewed in the direction of rotation, the reinforcing surface and the motor partially overlap each other, and the motor protrudes from the reinforcing surface in a direction opposite to the image-carrying component. The imaging device also includes a shielding metal plate arranged in the region along the direction of rotation where the motor is arranged, connected to each of the first metal plate and the frame component, and configured to cover a portion of the motor when viewed from a direction opposite to the image-carrying component.

[0006] Other features of the invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments, with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the appearance of the imaging device in the first embodiment.

[0008] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the imaging device according to the first embodiment.

[0009] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the frame body and exposure unit of the first embodiment.

[0010] Figure 4A This is a left-side view showing the support of the frame body in the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 4B This is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the contact points located on the left and rear sides.

[0012] Figure 5A This is a right-side view showing the support of the frame body in the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 5BThis is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the contact points located on the right and rear sides.

[0014] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing the exposure unit, fixing accessory, support member and metal plate strut of the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 7 This is a perspective view showing the exposure unit of the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the fixing accessory of the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 9 This is a perspective view showing the first support member of the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 10 This is a top view showing the exposure unit fixed to the metal plate support rod via the fixing attachment of the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 11A This is a perspective view showing the first wire spring of the first embodiment, and the wire spring holding member is shown therein.

[0020] Figure 11B This is a perspective view showing the first wire spring of the first embodiment, and the wire spring holding member is not shown.

[0021] Figure 12 This is a perspective view used to illustrate the second wire spring of the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 13 This is a top view illustrating the position of the support member relative to the metal plate strut in the first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 14 This is a left-side view used to show the position of the exposure unit in the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view used to illustrate the exposure unit and electronic components mounted on the circuit board in the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 16 This is a perspective view of the imaging device of the second embodiment.

[0026] Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view of the imaging device of the second embodiment.

[0027] Figure 18 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the frame and the position of the plates in the second embodiment.

[0028] Figure 19 This is a perspective view showing the construction of the frame according to the second embodiment.

[0029] Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional view showing the construction of the frame according to the second embodiment.

[0030] Figure 21 This is a perspective view showing the construction of the frame and shielding metal plate of the second embodiment.

[0031] Figure 22 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the frame and shielding metal plate of the second embodiment.

[0032] Figure 23 This is a front view showing the construction of the frame and shielding metal plate of the second embodiment.

[0033] Figure 24 This is a perspective view of the shielding metal plate of the second embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0034] In the following description, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0035] First Embodiment

[0036] Imaging equipment

[0037] First, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 An overview of the imaging device of the first embodiment is described. Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the appearance of the imaging device 1 in this embodiment. Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the imaging device 1. The imaging device 1 in this embodiment is a monochrome laser beam printer that forms an image on a recording material P based on image information data sent from, for example, an external device (not shown) of a personal computer. The recording material P on which the image is formed can be a sheet material made of various materials, including, for example, paper sheets such as ordinary paper and thick paper, plastic films such as those used in overhead projectors, and cloth sheets.

[0038] In the following description, the height direction (opposite to the direction of gravity) of the imaging device 1 placed on a horizontal plane is defined as the Z direction. Additionally, the direction intersecting the Z direction and intersecting the photosensitive drum 11 described below (see...) Figure 2 The direction parallel to the rotation axis direction (i.e., the main scanning direction or the width direction) is defined as the X direction. Additionally, the direction intersecting the X and Z directions is defined as the Y direction. Preferably, the X, Y, and Z directions intersect each other at right angles. For ease of description, the positive side in the X direction is called the right side, the negative side in the X direction is called the left side, the positive side in the Y direction is called the front side or front surface side, the negative side in the Y direction is called the rear side or rear surface side, the positive side in the Z direction is called the upper side, and the negative side in the Z direction is called the lower side.

[0039] like Figure 1As shown, the imaging device 1 includes a cartridge 4 containing recording material P and a discharge tray 14 on which discharged recording material P is stacked. The cartridge 4 is arranged to be pulled in the Y direction, and the user can refill the cartridge 4 with recording material P. Recording material P is conveyed from the cartridge 4, an image is formed on the recording material P, and then the recording material P is discharged from the discharge outlet 15 in the discharge direction (i.e., the Y direction) and the recording material is stacked on the discharge tray 14. The discharge outlet 15 is formed on the top surface of the frame body 78 described below (see...). Figure 3 The recording material P is discharged through the discharge outlet and onto the discharge tray 14. In other words, the imaging device 1 of this embodiment is a device that discharges the recording material from the top surface of the device.

[0040] Imaging device 1 includes a frame body (supporting frame body) 78, and a front cover 70, a rear cover 701, and an outer cover 71 fixed to the frame body 78. The outer cover 71 is disposed on the side and top surface of imaging device 1; and the outer cover 71, the front cover 70, and the rear cover 701 constitute the exterior of imaging device 1. The front cover 70 is disposed in a portion of the front surface of imaging device 1 and covers the circuit board 100 described below.

[0041] like Figure 2 As shown, the imaging device 1 includes an imaging section (imaging unit) 20, a feeding section 30, a fixing section 9, and an exhaust roller pair 10. The imaging section 20 forms a toner image on the recording material P, the feeding section 30 feeds the recording material P, and the fixing section 9 fixes the toner image formed by the imaging section 20 onto the recording material P. The imaging section 20, the feeding section 30, the fixing section 9, and the exhaust roller pair 10 are housed in a frame body 78.

[0042] The imaging section 20 includes an exposure unit 50, an electrophotographic processing unit 40, and a transfer unit 7. The transfer unit 7 includes a transfer roller 7a, which transfers the toner image carried by the photosensitive drum 11 of the processing unit 40 onto the recording material P. The processing unit 40 includes a photosensitive drum 11, a cleaning unit 13, a charging roller 17, a developing roller 12, and a developing container 18 containing the toner.

[0043] The photosensitive drum 11 is a cylindrical photosensitive component and serves as an image carrier component for carrying electrostatic latent images and toner images. In this embodiment, the photosensitive drum 11 includes a drum-shaped substrate and a photosensitive layer formed on the substrate. The substrate is made of aluminum, and the photosensitive layer is made of an organic photosensitive material with a negative charge polarity. The photosensitive drum 11 is driven and rotated by a motor (not shown) at a predetermined processing speed in a predetermined direction (indicated by arrow R).

[0044] The charging roller 17 contacts the photosensitive drum 11 with a predetermined pressure contact force; and when a predetermined charging voltage is applied by the charging power supply, the charging roller 17 charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 11 uniformly with a predetermined potential.

[0045] The exposure unit 50 generates a laser beam as light based on image information data sent from an external device, and emits the laser beam onto the photosensitive drum 11, exposing the surface of the photosensitive drum 11 to the laser beam and scanning it. Through this exposure, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 11 based on the image information data.

[0046] The developing roller 12 is rotatably supported by a developer container 18. The developer container 18 contains a developer containing toner and a carrier. The developing roller 12 is arranged in the opening of the developer container 18 to face the photosensitive drum 11.

[0047] The processing unit 40 uses a contact developing system as its developing system. That is, the toner carried by the developing roller 12 contacts the photosensitive drum 11 in the developing portion (developing area) where the photosensitive drum 11 and the developing roller 12 face each other. The developing roller 12 is supplied with a developing voltage by a developing power source (not shown). Therefore, based on the potential distribution on the surface of the photosensitive drum 11, the toner carried by the developing roller 12 is transferred from the developing roller 12 to the surface of the photosensitive drum 11 by the developing voltage, thereby developing the electrostatic latent image into a toner image.

[0048] The fixing section 9 performs the image fixing process by heating and melting the toner image formed on the recording material and applying pressure to the toner image. The fixing section 9 includes a heating roller 9a and a pressure roller 9b. The heating roller includes a fixing heater 9c, and the pressure roller is in pressure contact with the heating roller 9a.

[0049] Next, the imaging operation of imaging device 1 will be described. When an imaging command is sent to imaging device 1, imaging section 20 begins the imaging process based on image information sent from an external device (not shown) connected to imaging device 1.

[0050] Exposure unit 50 emits a laser beam toward photosensitive drum 11 based on image information received from imaging device 1. Although not shown in the accompanying drawings, exposure unit 50 includes a laser oscillator for outputting the laser beam, a multifaceted mirror and lens for emitting the laser beam toward photosensitive drum 11, a scanner motor for rotating the multifaceted mirror, and a housing (the housing as a whole supports these components) for housing and supporting these components. Exposure unit 50 is a unit in which the housing houses the aforementioned components, and the housing is generally cuboid. Therefore, exposure unit 50 is also referred to as an optical box.

[0051] The photosensitive drum 11 is charged by the charging roller 17. When the photosensitive drum 11 is irradiated by a laser beam through the exposure unit 50, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 11. Then, the electrostatic latent image is developed by the developing roller 12 (which rotates while carrying toner), so that a toner image is formed on the photosensitive drum 11.

[0052] The feeding section 30 includes a cartridge 4 on which recording material P is stacked, a pickup roller 3, a feed roller 5a, and a separation roller 5b. In parallel with the imaging process described above, the pickup roller 3 feeds the recording material P supported by the cartridge 4. The feed roller 5a and separation roller 5b separate the recording material P fed by the pickup roller 3 into individual sheets and transfer them to a pair of transfer rollers 5c. Then, the recording material P is transferred via the transfer rollers 5c toward the transfer clamping section N1 formed by the transfer roller 7a and the photosensitive drum 11.

[0053] The transfer roller 7a is supplied with a transfer voltage by a transfer power source (not shown), and the toner image carried by the photosensitive drum 11 is transferred onto the recording material P, which has been conveyed by the transfer roller pair 5c. The recording material P, on which the toner image has been transferred, is conveyed to the fixing section 9, and the toner image is heated and pressurized as the recording material P passes through the fixing clamping section N2 formed between the heating roller 9a and the pressure roller 9b of the fixing section 9. Through this operation, the toner melts and then solidifies and adheres to the recording material P, so that the toner image is fixed onto the recording material P. The recording material P, which has passed through the fixing section 9, is discharged from the discharge outlet 15 towards the discharge direction (i.e., the Y direction) to the outside of the imaging device 1 by the discharge roller pair 10, and stacked on the discharge tray 14.

[0054] If an image is to be formed on both sides of the recording material P, the recording material P with an image already formed on its first surface is rotated back by the discharge roller pair 10 and guided to the double-sided transport path 16. The recording material P, which has been guided to the double-sided transport path 16, is again conveyed towards the transfer roller 7a by the double-sided transport roller pair 5d through the transport path 19. After an image is formed on the second surface of the recording material P by the transfer roller 7a, the recording material P is discharged to the outside of the imaging device 1 by the discharge roller pair 10. After the toner image is transferred onto the recording material P, the toner remaining on the photosensitive drum 11 is removed by the cleaning unit 13.

[0055] like Figure 2As shown, the imaging device 1 also includes a circuit board 100. The circuit board 100 includes a wiring board (printed circuit board) 101 made of an insulator, and electronic components 111 and 121 are mounted on a first side of the wiring board 101 via solder. Since conductor patterns are formed on and within the wiring board 101, many components including the electronic components 111 and 121 are electrically connected to each other. For example, the circuit board 100 has the function of converting alternating current supplied to the imaging device 1 from an external power source into direct current, and the function of converting the voltage to obtain a predetermined voltage required for the imaging process. The circuit board 100 is arranged in the gap formed between the front cover 70 and the exposure unit 50 in the discharge direction, and the surface of the wiring board 101 on which the electronic components 111 and 121 are mounted faces the interior of the frame body 78.

[0056] Framework Ontology

[0057] Next, the framework body 78 will be described. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the frame body 78 includes a pair of left side plate frames 73 and a right side plate frame 74 made of metal, and a plurality of metal plate struts 75, 76, and 77. The left side plate frames 73 and the right side plate frames 74 are arranged substantially parallel to each other and facing each other. The left side plate frames 73 and the right side plate frames 74 are arranged on the two end sides of the photosensitive drum 11 in the width direction. The left side plate frames 73 and the right side plate frames 74 support the metal plate struts 75, 76, and 77 (the metal plate struts are metal plate members with high rigidity) such that the metal plate struts 75, 76, and 77 bridge between the left side plate frames 73 and the right side plate frames 74. The metal plate strut 75 is an example of a third metal plate (metal plate frame, bridging frame) that extends in the direction of the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 11 (i.e., the X direction) and connects the right side plate frame 74 (i.e., the first metal plate) and the left side plate frame 73 (i.e., the second metal plate). On the left side plate frame 73, the left side plate support 73a (see...) serves as a reinforcing member. Figure 4A Arranged to extend upwards from below; on the right side plate frame 74, the right side plate support 74a (see...) serves as a reinforcing member. Figure 5A The components are arranged to extend upwards from the bottom. Therefore, the stiffness of the frame body 78 is increased by the left side plate support 73a and the right side plate support 74a.

[0058] Below the frame body 78, a left ground frame 79 and a right ground frame 80, made of resin, are arranged. The left ground frame 79 and the right ground frame 80 are in contact with the ground and support the frame body 78. Specifically, as... Figure 4AAs shown, the left side plate frame 73 contacts at least two portions (including contact portions 79a and 79b) of the left ground frame 79 and is supported by the left ground frame 79. Contact portion 79a contacts the curved surface of the left side plate frame 73 on its front side relative to the center portion in the Y direction. The curved surface is formed by bending the left side plate frame 73 because the stiffness of the left side plate frame 73 is important. In this way, contact portion 79a contacts the left side plate frame 73 on its front side relative to the center portion in the Y direction. On the other hand, as... Figure 4B As shown, the contact portion 79b contacts the abutting surface of the left side plate frame 73. This is because the contact portion 79b is closer to units associated with the transfer of the recording material P, such as the transfer roller pair 5c and the transfer roller 7a (see Figure 1). Figure 2 Furthermore, this arrangement of the contact portion 79a improves the positional accuracy of the left side plate frame 73. Therefore, the contact portion 79b contacts the left side plate frame 73 on the rear side of the center portion in the Y direction relative to the left side plate frame 73.

[0059] Similarly, such as Figure 5A As shown, the right side plate frame 74 contacts at least two portions (including contact portion 80a and contact portion 80b) of the right ground frame 80 and is supported by the right ground frame 80. Contact portion 80a contacts the curved surface of the right side plate frame 74 on its front side relative to the center portion of the right side plate frame 74 in the Y direction. The curved surface is formed by bending the right side plate frame 74 because the stiffness of the right side plate frame 74 is important. In this way, contact portion 80a contacts the right side plate frame 74 on its front side relative to the center portion of the right side plate frame 74 in the Y direction. On the other hand, as... Figure 5B As shown, the contact portion 80b contacts the abutting surface of the right side plate frame 74. This arrangement of the contact portion 80b improves the positional accuracy of the right side plate frame 74. Therefore, the contact portion 80b contacts the right side plate frame 74 on the rear side of the center portion in the Y direction relative to the right side plate frame 74.

[0060] Construction for positioning

[0061] Next, we will refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figures 6 to 15 The construction for positioning the exposure unit 50 within the frame body 78 is described. Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing the exposure unit 50, the fixing accessory 84, the support members 83A, 83B and 83C, and the metal plate strut 75. Note that in Figure 6In order to allow the reader to easily understand the description, the exposure unit 50, the fixing attachment 84, the first support member 83A and the second support member 83B are shown rotating about the X-axis from their actual fixed to the metal plate strut 75.

[0062] In this embodiment, with the exposure unit 50 attached to the fixing attachment 84, the exposure unit 50 is fixed to the metal plate support rod 75. The fixing attachment 84, which serves as a positioning member, is made of resin and acts as an intermediate member. Figure 6 As shown, the exposure unit 50 can be attached to the first side of the fixing attachment 84, and the second side of the fixing attachment 84, opposite to the first side, can be fixed to the metal plate support rod 75. With the fixing attachment 84 fixed to the metal plate support rod 75, the fixing attachment 84 positions the exposure unit 50 such that the exposure unit 50 is tilted relative to the surface 751 of the metal plate support rod 75, thereby allowing the exposure unit 50 to emit a laser beam at a predetermined angle toward the surface of the photosensitive drum 11 (see...). Figure 2 In other words, when the exposure unit 50 is assembled into the imaging device and observed in the direction of the rotation axis (i.e., the X direction) of the photosensitive drum 11, the orientation of the exposure unit 50 is set such that the emission direction of the laser beam used to expose the photosensitive drum 11 has a predetermined angle relative to the surface 751 of the metal plate support rod 75. In this embodiment, the surface 751 of the metal plate support rod 75 is a support surface that contacts at least one of the support members (83A and 83B) or the fixing attachment 84, and supports the support members 83A, 83B and 83C and the fixing attachment 84. That is, on the metal plate support rod 75, the surface 751 of the metal plate support rod 75 contacts the first support member 83A, the second support member 83B and / or the fixing attachment 84, and supports these components. Additionally, the following insertion hole portions 75b1 and 75b2, first fixing hole portions 75c1 and 75c2 serving as first hole portions, and screw fixing hole portions 75d1, 75d2, 75e1 and 75e2 are formed in the surface 751 of the metal plate support rod 75.

[0063] With the fixing attachment 84 fixed to the metal plate support rod 75, the exposure unit 50 is supported by a first support member 83A, a second support member 83B, and a third support member 83C arranged on the metal plate support rod 75. The support members 83A, 83B, and 83C are made of a metal or similar material with higher rigidity than the fixing attachment 84, and support the exposure unit 50 fixed to the fixing attachment 84 while the fixing attachment 84 is fixed to the metal plate support rod 75. The three points where the support members 83A, 83B, and 83C contact the exposure unit 50 constitute a virtual support plane, on which the exposure unit 50 is supported. The support plane is inclined relative to the surface 751 of the metal plate support rod 75. That is, the support portions of the first support member 83A, the second support member 83B, and the third support member 83C support the exposure unit 50 and define a support plane inclined at a predetermined angle relative to the surface 751 of the metal plate support rod 75. The fixing attachment 84 is arranged to position the exposure unit 50 on the support plane, and the exposure unit 50 is also supported by the fixing attachment 84.

[0064] In this embodiment, the first support member 83A and the second support member 83B are formed separately from the fixing attachment 84 and can be fixed to the metal plate strut 75. In contrast, the third support member 83C is integrally formed with the metal plate strut 75. For example, the third support member 83C is formed by partially cutting the surface 751 of the metal plate strut 75 and bending a portion of the surface 751 in the Z direction.

[0065] Exposure unit

[0066] Figure 7 This is a perspective view showing the exposure unit 50 as viewed from the side of the fixed attachment 84. (See attached image.) Figure 7 As shown, the exposure unit 50 includes a first supported portion 50a1, a second supported portion 50a2, and a third supported portion 50a3 formed on the side of the fixing attachment 84. The first supported portion 50a1, the second supported portion 50a2, and the third supported portion 50a3 are supported portions or abutted portions, which abut against the first support member 83A, the second support member 83B, and the third support member 83C respectively and are supported by the first support member 83A, the second support member 83B, and the third support member 83C.

[0067] The first supported portion 50a1 and the second supported portion 50a2 are arranged upstream of the central portion of the exposure unit 50 in the emission direction of the laser beam emitted from the exposure unit 50 to the photosensitive drum 11 (extending towards the negative side in the Y direction), and are located separately from each other in the width direction. In contrast, the third supported portion 50a3 is arranged downstream of the central portion of the exposure unit 50 in the emission direction of the laser beam, and is located between the first supported portion 50a1 and the second supported portion 50a2 in the width direction.

[0068] Furthermore, the exposure unit 50 includes a plurality of first protrusions 50b1 and 50b2 formed on the side of the fixing attachment 84 for assembly within the fixing attachment 84. The first protrusions 50b1 and 50b2 are formed downstream of the central portion of the exposure unit 50 in the laser beam emission direction and are located separately from each other in the width direction. Specifically, the first protrusions 50b1 and 50b2 are positioned on two end sides of the exposure unit 50 in the width direction, such that a third supported portion 50a3 is inserted between the first protrusions 50b1 and 50b2 in the width direction.

[0069] Fixed accessories

[0070] Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the fixing attachment 84 as viewed from the exposure unit 50 side. The fixing attachment 84 includes second fixing hole portions 84b1 and 84b2 formed on the exposure unit 50 side (i.e., the first side). The second fixing hole portions 84b1 and 84b2 serve as second hole portions and are formed such that the first protrusions 50b1 and 50b2 of the exposure unit 50 can be fitted into the second fixing hole portions 84b1 and 84b2. Furthermore, the second fixing hole portions 84b1 and 84b2 are formed downstream of the central portion of the fixing attachment 84 in the laser beam emission direction and are located separately from each other in the width direction. Specifically, the second fixing hole portions 84b1 and 84b2 are positioned on the two end sides of the fixing attachment 84 in the width direction. In this embodiment, the second fixing hole portion 84b2 located on the right side in the X direction does not strictly prevent the first protrusion 50b2 from moving. Conversely, the second fixing hole portion 84b1 located on the upper left side positions the exposure unit 50, and the second fixing hole portion 84b2 located on the upper right side prevents the exposure unit 50 from rotating.

[0071] The fixing accessory 84 also includes second protrusions 84c1 and 84c2 formed on the side of the metal plate support rod 75 (i.e., the second side) for positioning and fixing the accessory 84 relative to the metal plate support rod 75. For example, the second protrusions 84c1 and 84c2 are cross-shaped protrusions. The orientation of the axial portion of the second protrusions 84c1 and 84c2 formed on the second side is different from the orientation of the aforementioned second fixing hole portions 84b1 and 84b2 formed on the first side.

[0072] For example, the axial direction of the second protrusions 84c1 and 84c2 formed on the second side is a first direction perpendicular to the surface 751 of the metal plate support 75, and the fixing attachment 84 is fixed to this surface. However, the direction of the second fixing hole portions 84b1 and 84b2 formed on the first side is a second direction different from the first direction. In this embodiment, as... Figure 8 As shown by the dashed lines, the second fixing hole portions 84b1 and 84b2 are formed at an angle, such that the entrance sides of the second fixing hole portions 84b1 and 84b2 are located downstream of the rear side of the second fixing hole portions 84b1 and 84b2 in the Y direction. Since the fixing attachment 84 is a resin component, it advantageously possesses greater flexibility for shaping than metal components. Therefore, the second fixing hole portions 84b1 and 84b2 are easily formed on the first side, and the second protrusions 84c1 and 84c2 are formed on the second side, such that the orientation of the second fixing hole portions 84b1 and 84b2 differs from the orientation of the second protrusions 84c1 and 84c2.

[0073] Supporting components

[0074] Figure 9 This is a perspective view showing the first support member 83A. Note that since the second support member 83B can have the same structure as the first support member 83A, its description and illustration will be omitted. Figure 9As shown, the first support member 83A includes a support portion 831 that supports the exposure unit 50. Additionally, the first support member 83A includes an insertion portion 83b that positions the first support member 83A relative to the metal plate support rod 75, and abutment portions 83c1 and 83c2 that abut against the metal plate support rod 75. Furthermore, the first support member 83A includes a fixing portion 83c3 that secures the first support member 83A to the metal plate support rod 75. In this embodiment, the first support member 83A is fixed to the metal plate support rod 75 by screws, such that the support portion 831 of the first support member 83A is parallel to the left side plate frame 73. Similarly, a second support member 83B having the same shape as the first support member 83A is fixed to the metal plate support rod 75 by screws, such that the support portion 831 of the second support member 83B is parallel to the right side plate frame 74. For this reason, a screw hole portion 83c4 is formed in the fixing portion 83c3, which is formed as a thin plate, to allow the screw to pass through the screw hole portion 83c4.

[0075] like Figure 6 As shown, first fixing hole portions 75c1 and 75c2, insertion hole portions 75b1 and 75b2, and screw fixing hole portions 75d1, 75d2, 75e1, and 75e2 are formed in the surface 751 of the metal plate support rod 75. The first fixing hole portions 75c1 and 75c2 are formed such that the second protrusions 84c1 and 84c2 of the fixing accessory 84 are fitted into the first fixing hole portions 75c1 and 75c2. The insertion hole portions 75b1 and 75b2 are formed such that the insertion portions 83b of the first support member 83A and the second support member 83B are inserted into the insertion hole portions 75b1 and 75b2.

[0076] By assembling the first protrusions 50b1 and 50b2 into the second fixing hole portions 84b1 and 84b2 of the fixing accessory 84 (see...) Figure 8 The exposure unit 50 is attached to the first side of the fixing accessory 84. The fixing accessory 84 is fixed to the metal plate support rod 75 by fitting the second protrusions 84c1 and 84c2 formed on the second side opposite to the first side into the first fixing hole portions 75c1 and 75c2 of the metal plate support rod 75.

[0077] The insertion portion 83b of the first support member 83A is inserted into the insertion hole portion 75b1 of the metal plate strut 75, and the abutment portions 83c1 and 83c2 of the first support member 83A (see...) Figure 9 The second support member 83B abuts against the metal plate support rod 75. Similarly, the insertion portion 83b of the second support member 83B is inserted into the insertion hole portion 75b2 of the metal plate support rod 75, and the abutting portions 83c1 and 83c2 of the second support member 83B (see...) Figure 9The first support member 83A is secured to the metal plate support rod 75 by placing the fixing portion 83c3 on the surface 751 of the metal plate support rod 75, passing a screw through the screw hole portion 83c4, and then engaging the screw with the screw fixing hole portion 75d1. Similarly, the second support member 83B is secured to the metal plate support rod 75 by placing the fixing portion 83c3 on the surface 751 of the metal plate support rod 75, passing a screw through the screw hole portion 83c4, and then engaging the screw with the screw fixing hole portion 75d2.

[0078] The fixing accessory 84 is configured such that a portion of the fixing accessory 84 is mounted on the fixing portion 83c3 of the first support member 83A and the fixing portion 83c3 of the second support member 83B. The second protrusion 84c1 of the fixing accessory 84 passes through a hole 83c5 formed in the fixing portion 83c3 of the first support member 83A and is fitted into the first fixing hole 75c1 of the metal plate strut 75. The second protrusion 84c2 of the fixing accessory 84 passes through a hole 83c5 formed in the fixing portion 83c3 of the second support member 83B and is fitted into the first fixing hole 75c2 of the metal plate strut 75. Additionally, in the fixing accessory 84, screw hole portions 84e1 and 84e2 are configured to allow screws to pass through them. A screw that has passed through screw hole portion 84e1 passes through a hole 83c6 formed in the fixing portion 83c3 of the first support member 83A and engages with the screw fixing hole 75e1 of the metal plate strut 75. Similarly, the screw that has passed through the screw hole portion 84e2 passes through the hole portion 83c6 formed in the fixing portion 83c3 of the second support member 83B and engages with the screw fixing hole portion 75e2 of the metal plate strut 75. In this way, the fixing accessory 84 is fixed to the metal plate strut 75.

[0079] Therefore, the first support member 83A and the second support member 83B (specifically, the fixing portion 83c3 of the first support member 83A and the fixing portion 83c3 of the second support member 83B) are fixed between the fixing attachment 84 and the metal plate support rod 75, and the first support member 83A and the second support member 83B are fixed to the metal plate support rod 75 together with the fixing attachment 84. In this way, the exposure unit 50 attached to the fixing attachment 84 is positioned such that the exposure unit 50 is tilted relative to the surface 751 of the metal plate support rod 75, such that the emission angle of the laser beam emitted from the exposure unit 50 to the photosensitive drum 11 is a predetermined angle.

[0080] With the fixing attachment 84 fixed to the metal plate support rod 75, the exposure unit 50 is supported via the first supported portion 50a1 and the second supported portion 50a2 by the support portion 831 of the first support member 83A and the support portion 831 of the second support member 83B. Additionally, the third supported portion 50a3 is supported by the third support member 83C. In this way, all three components of the exposure unit 50 (i.e., the first supported portion 50a1, the second supported portion 50a2, and the third supported portion 50a3) are supported by support members 83A, 83B, and 83C, which are made of metal with higher rigidity than the fixing attachment 84 made of resin. Therefore, vibration of the exposure unit 50 can be reduced.

[0081] If the exposure unit 50 is supported solely by a resin-made fixing attachment 84, vibrations from the motor arranged in the frame body 78 may be transmitted to the exposure unit 50, causing laser beam vibration. In this case, laser beam vibration may lead to image defects. However, in this embodiment, to reduce the vibration of the exposure unit 50, the exposure unit 50 is supported by support members 83A, 83B, and 83C made of metal with higher rigidity. On the other hand, the fixing attachment 84 is made of resin. Since resin has higher flexibility for shaping than metal, the fixing attachment 84 can be easily formed such that the angle at which the exposure unit 50 is fixed to the metal plate strut 75 can be changed, and the fixing attachment 84 does not interfere with the support portions 831 of the support members 83A and 83B.

[0082] like Figure 10 As shown, with the exposure unit 50 supported by support members 83A, 83B, and 83C, the exposure unit 50 is pressed by a first spring 81 and a second spring 82, which serve as pressing members. The first spring 81 is arranged in two positions on the front side. Specifically, one of the first springs 81 is arranged on the right side, and the other on the left side. The second spring 82, as a single spring, is arranged on the rear side. The first spring 81 and the second spring 82 press the exposure unit 50 toward the metal plate support rod 75.

[0083] Figure 11A and Figure 11B The first wire spring 81 is shown. Hereinafter, the first wire spring 81 of the left portion of the push-exposure unit 50 will be described as an example. In this embodiment, another first wire spring 81 is arranged on the right portion of the push-exposure unit 50. However, since the first wire spring 81 of the right portion of the push-exposure unit 50 and the first wire spring 81 of the left portion of the push-exposure unit 50 have the same structure, the first wire spring 81 of the left portion of the push-exposure unit 50 will be described as an example below.

[0084] like Figure 11A and Figure 11B As shown, one end portion of the first wire spring 81 is connected to the wire spring retaining member 85, which is held between the first support member 83A and the second support member 83B (see...). Figure 6 The other end of the first wire spring 81 is provided with a locking portion 81a. The locking portion 81a locks the first supported portion 50a1 of the exposure unit 50 and pushes the exposure unit 50. Preferably, as shown Figure 11A As shown, the abutting portion 85a that abuts against the front end surface of the first supported portion 50a1 is formed in the spring retaining member 85 to prevent the locking portion 81a from disengaging from the first supported portion 50a1.

[0085] Figure 12 The second wire spring 82 is shown. (As shown) Figure 12 As shown, one end portion of the second wire spring 82 is connected to a fixing hole portion 75d formed in the metal plate support rod 75. The other end portion of the second wire spring 82 is detachably hooked onto a hook portion 75e formed on the metal plate support rod 75. When the other end portion of the second wire spring 82 is not hooked onto the hook portion 75e, the second wire spring 82 can swing on the metal plate support rod 75, wherein a portion of the second wire spring 82 on the fixing hole portion 75d side serves as a swing axis. When the other end portion of the second wire spring 82 is hooked onto the hook portion 75e, the second wire spring 82 locks the third supported portion 50a3 of the exposure unit 50 and pushes the exposure unit 50.

[0086] As described above, in this embodiment, the exposure unit 50 is pressed by the first spring 81 and the second spring 82 via its supported members 83A, 83B, and 83C, which are supported by the supported members 83A, 83B, and 83C. There are two reasons for pressing the exposure unit 50. The first reason is to stably support the exposure unit 50. The exposure unit 50 is supported individually by the supported members 83A, 83B, and 83C and is not fixed to the supported members 83A, 83B, and 83C by screws or the like. Therefore, if the exposure unit 50 is not pressed, it may not be stably supported by the supported members 83A, 83B, and 83C. Therefore, in order to stably support the exposure unit 50, the exposure unit 50 is pressed by the first spring 81 and the second spring 82 so that the abutted portion of the exposure unit 50 (i.e., the supported portions 50a1 to 50a3) does not separate from the supported members 83A, 83B, and 83C.

[0087] The second reason is to improve image quality. For example, even if the imaging device 1 vibrates during imaging operation due to vibrations around it, the vibration is hardly transmitted to the exposure unit 50 because the exposure unit 50 is pushed down. Furthermore, even if the exposure unit 50 vibrates, the vibration will be reduced in a shorter time by the first spring 81 and the second spring 82. Therefore, the impact of vibration on image quality is minimal.

[0088] Additionally, in this embodiment, as Figure 13 As shown, the first support member 83A and the second support member 83B (specifically, the support portion 831 of the first support member 83A and the support portion 831 of the second support member 83B) support the exposure unit 50 at an upstream position of the upstream edge portion 75a of the metal plate strut 75 along the emission direction of the laser beam from the exposure unit 50. Therefore, as Figure 14 As shown, the exposure unit 50 is arranged such that when viewed in the width direction, the upstream edge portion 501 of the exposure unit 50 is located upstream of the upstream edges 700 of a pair of left side plate frames 73 and right side plate frames 74 in the emission direction of the laser beam (opposite to the Y direction).

[0089] In this manner, the exposure unit 50 is arranged such that a portion of the exposure unit 50 protrudes forward from the left side plate frame 73 and the right side plate frame 74. Therefore, as... Figure 15 As shown, a space can be created below the exposure unit 50, and this space can be used. That is, the first support member 83A and the second support member 83B not only reduce the vibration of the exposure unit 50 attached to the aforementioned fixing attachment 84, but also ensure the space created below the exposure unit 50. In this embodiment, the electronic component 111, as one of the components mounted on the circuit board 100, is arranged in the space created below the exposure unit 50, allowing for a reduction in the size of the front portion of the imaging device 1's body. The electronic component 111 is, for example, a low-voltage power transformer, a heat sink, or an electrolytic capacitor, and is larger than other components in the Y direction. Therefore, if the electronic component 111 is arranged in the space created below the exposure unit 50, the overall size of the device can be reduced.

[0090] Furthermore, in this embodiment, since the fixing attachment 84 is made of a resin with high flexibility for forming shapes, it is advantageous to use high flexibility for forming shapes. For example, such as Figure 15As shown, a heat insulation wall 84d can be formed on the front side within the fixing attachment 84. The heat insulation wall 84d is formed to shield the exposure unit 50 from heat generated from the electronic components 111 mounted on the circuit board 100. The heat insulation wall 84d extends substantially horizontally and is arranged vertically (i.e., in the direction of gravity) between the exposure unit 50 and the electronic components 111. The temperature of the exposure unit 50 also increases due to its own temperature rise. Therefore, if the exposure unit 50 does not receive heat from other components, it is advantageous for thermal control of the exposure unit 50. Figure 8 As shown, the heat insulation wall 84d is integrally formed with the fixing accessory 84. Therefore, the number of parts can be reduced, and the heat insulation wall 84d can be formed in the optimal position and shape according to the arrangement of the circuit board 100.

[0091] Note that in this embodiment, the axial direction (i.e., the first direction) of the first protrusions 50b1 and 50b2 of the exposure unit 50 is the same as the direction (i.e., the first direction) of the first fixing holes 75c1 and 75c2 of the metal plate support rod 75. That is, the first protrusions 50b1 and 50b2 can be fitted into the first fixing holes 75c1 and 75c2. Therefore, depending on the type of imaging device, the exposure unit 50 can be directly fixed to the metal plate support rod 75 without via the fixing attachment 84.

[0092] As described above, in this embodiment, with the exposure unit 50 attached to the fixing attachment 84, the exposure unit 50 is fixed to the metal plate support rod 75. Furthermore, the exposure unit 50 is supported by support members 83A, 83B, and 83C arranged on the metal plate support rod 75. The fixing attachment 84 is made of resin, and the support members 83A, 83B, and 83C are made of metal or the like, which has higher stiffness than the fixing attachment 84. The exposure unit 50 attached to the fixing attachment 84 is positioned such that the exposure unit 50 is tilted relative to the surface 751 of the metal plate support rod 75, such that the emission angle of the laser beam emitted from the exposure unit 50 to the photosensitive drum 11 is a predetermined angle. That is, the position of the exposure unit 50 can be changed by changing the fixing attachment 84 (on which the exposure unit 50 is attached), without changing the shape of the exposure unit 50. In this case, since the exposure unit 50 is supported by support members 83A, 83B, and 83C, which have higher stiffness, the vibration of the exposure unit 50 attached to the fixing attachment 84 can be reduced. Therefore, in this embodiment, the exposure unit and metal plate strut can be used in various types of imaging devices without requiring multiple types of exposure units and metal plate struts in which the direction of the protruding shaft portion and the direction of the protruding hole vary. This reduces costs.

[0093] In the comparative example of this embodiment, in order to fix the exposure unit to the metal plate support rod during the assembly of the imaging device, a protrusion having a shaft portion is formed on one of the exposure unit and the metal plate support rod, and a protrusion hole in which the protrusion can be fitted is formed on the other of the exposure unit and the metal plate support rod. The protrusion and the protrusion hole are formed such that the direction of the shaft portion of the protrusion is the same as the direction of the protrusion hole, such that when the exposure unit is fixed to the metal plate support rod, the emission angle of the laser beam emitted from the exposure unit to the photosensitive drum is a predetermined angle.

[0094] In the comparative example, the exposure unit is fixed to the metal plate support at a suitable position via protrusions and holes pre-formed in or on the exposure unit and the metal plate support, such that the emission angle of the laser beam is a predetermined angle. However, the positional relationship between the exposure unit and the photosensitive drum within the body of the imaging device can vary depending on the type of imaging device or possibly on manufacturing errors. In such a case, in the comparative example, it may be necessary to pre-prepare various types of exposure units and metal plate supports with shaft portions of protrusions and holes of different orientations for proper arrangement of the exposure unit. That is, the construction in the comparative example is expensive because the exposure unit and metal plate support cannot be used in multiple types of imaging devices.

[0095] However, in this embodiment, since the exposure unit and metal plate strut can be used in various types of imaging devices as described above, the cost can be reduced.

[0096] In the above embodiments, as an example (see...), Figure 8The second fixing hole portions 84b1 and 84b2 are formed on the first side of the fixing attachment 84, and the second protrusion portions 84c1 and 84c2 are formed on the second side of the fixing attachment 84. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the protrusion portions may be formed on the first side, and the fixing hole portions may be formed in the second side. In this case, the exposure unit 50 is provided with hole portions, the protrusion portions formed on the first side are fitted into these hole portions, and the metal plate support rod 75 is provided with protrusion portions, which are fitted into the fixing hole portions formed in the second side. However, when the protrusion portions are fitted into the exposure unit 50, the protrusion portions may have to be fitted into the exposure unit 50 so that the protrusion portions do not interfere with the laser oscillator, multifaceted mirror, lens, scanner motor, etc. arranged in the exposure unit 50. Therefore, the size of the exposure unit 50 may increase. When the protrusion portions are formed on the metal plate support rod 75, machining the protrusion portions may be more difficult than drilling holes, and assembling the imaging device 1 may become difficult because the protrusion portions hinder assembly. For these reasons, it is preferable that, as described above, the protrusion is formed on the exposure unit 50, the fixing hole is formed in the metal plate support 75, the second fixing hole portions 84b1 and 84b2 are formed in the fixing attachment 84, such that the protrusion is fitted in the second fixing hole portions 84b1 and 84b2, and the second protrusion portions 84c1 and 84c2 are formed on the fixing attachment 84, thereby fitting in the fixing hole portions.

[0097] Note that in this embodiment, the position of the exposure unit 50 relative to the metal plate support 75 in the width direction can be easily changed by replacing the fixing attachment 84 with another fixing attachment. That is, various types of fixing attachments 84 are prepared, wherein the positional relationship between the second fixing hole portions 84b1 and 84b2 formed on the first side and the second protrusion portions 84c1 and 84c2 formed on the second side varies in the width direction. In this case, when assembling the imaging device 1, a suitable fixing attachment 84 can be selected and used. In this way, the position of the exposure unit 50 relative to the metal plate support 75 in the width direction can be easily changed.

[0098] In this embodiment, each of the first support member 83A, the second support member 83B, and the fixing attachment 84 contacts and is fixed to the metal plate support rod 75. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the fixing attachment 84 may be fixed to the first support member 83A and the second support member 83B, and only the first support member 83A and the second support member 83B may contact and be fixed to the metal plate support rod 75. In another case, the first support member 83A and the second support member 83B may be fixed to the fixing attachment 84, and only the fixing attachment 84 may contact and be fixed to the metal plate support rod 75. In this embodiment, each of the first support member 83A, the second support member 83B, and the fixing attachment 84 is fixed to the metal plate support rod 75. Therefore, each of the first support member 83A, the second support member 83B, and the fixing accessory 84 can be positioned with high precision relative to the metal plate strut 75, unaffected by the tolerances of the components inserted between the metal plate strut 75 and the first support member 83A, the second support member 83B, or the fixing accessory 84. Thus, although the configuration in which the first support member 83A, the second support member 83B, and the fixing accessory 84 are supported by the metal plate strut 75 can be designed with some flexibility, the configuration of this embodiment is preferred, considering component tolerances, to provide more precise support for the exposure unit 50.

[0099] Second Embodiment

[0100] Overall structure of imaging equipment

[0101] Next, the overall structure of the imaging device 1 according to the second embodiment will be described. In the following text, unless otherwise stated, components given the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment have the same structure and effects as those in the first embodiment. Furthermore, this embodiment and the first embodiment can be simultaneously embodied in a single imaging device.

[0102] In the field of imaging equipment, there is a growing desire to further reduce the size and weight of imaging devices. To achieve this reduction, components such as metal plates that form the frame of the imaging device can be miniaturized. However, if these components are reduced in size, the rigidity of the frame may decrease. Consequently, when imaging operations are performed on the recording material, the frame may shift or vibrate, potentially degrading the quality of the image formed on the recording material.

[0103] In addition, electronic components (such as motors) generate electromagnetic waves. If the area of ​​the metal plate covering the motor is reduced to decrease the size and weight of the imaging device, more electromagnetic noise may radiate outwards towards the imaging device. Since electromagnetic noise can affect electronic equipment placed around the imaging device, it is desirable to minimize electromagnetic noise radiated outwards as much as possible.

[0104] For these reasons, this embodiment proposes a frame construction for an imaging device that allows for miniaturization of the imaging device, provides high rigidity to the frame, and reduces electromagnetic noise radiated outwards.

[0105] Figure 16 This is a perspective view of the imaging device 1 in this embodiment. Figure 17 The internal structure of the imaging device 1 of this embodiment is shown as viewed from the X direction (i.e., the direction of the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 11).

[0106] exist Figure 16 In this configuration, the front cover 70 is disposed in a portion of the end face (i.e., a portion of the front surface) of the imaging device 1 (located downstream in the discharge direction) and covers the circuit board 100 described below. Additionally, the outer cover 71 is disposed on a portion of the front surface of the imaging device 1 (excluding the portion where the front cover 70 is disposed), the side surface, and the top surface. The front cover 70, the outer cover 71, and the discharge tray 14 described above constitute the housing 179 of the imaging device 1. Furthermore, a rear cover (not shown) is disposed on the rear side of the imaging device 1. The rear cover is also part of the housing 179. Note that the housing 179 is a component that covers the entire imaging device 1 and houses components including the exposure unit (optical box) 50 described below. The feed inlet 181 and the discharge outlet 15 are openings formed in a portion of the housing 179. Recording material P is inserted into the interior of the imaging device 1 through the feed inlet 181 and discharged to the exterior of the imaging device 1 through the discharge outlet 15.

[0107] Next, the process of the imaging operation performed on the recording material P will be described. The imaging operation is mainly performed by the imaging unit 45 (i.e., the photosensitive drum 11, charging roller 17, developing roller 12, and developer container 18), the exposure unit 50, the transfer unit 7 (transfer roller 7a), and the fixing section 9. When image information data is sent to the imaging device 1, the photosensitive drum 11, as a rotatable image-carrying component, is driven and rotated at a predetermined circumferential speed (processing speed) in the direction indicated by arrow R, depending on the printing start signal. The exposure unit 50 emits a laser beam toward the photosensitive drum 11 according to the image information data received by the imaging device 1. The exposure unit 50 is a box-shaped unit that houses components including a laser oscillator for outputting the laser beam, a faceted mirror and lens for emitting the laser beam toward the photosensitive drum 11, and a scanner motor for rotating the faceted mirror. The photosensitive drum 11 is pre-charged by the charging roller 17. When the photosensitive drum 11 is irradiated with the laser beam, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum 11. Then, the toner contained in the developer container (storage section) 18 is conveyed by the developing roller 12 to the photosensitive drum 11, so that the electrostatic latent image is developed into a toner image on the photosensitive drum 11.

[0108] In parallel with the imaging process described above, recording material P is fed from cartridge 4. On the transport path 19 of imaging device 1, a pickup roller 3, a feed roller 5a, and a pair of transport rollers 5c are arranged. The pickup roller (feed member) 3 contacts the uppermost sheet of recording material P stored in cartridge 4, and feeds the recording material P in the feed direction (i.e., the negative side in the Y direction) by its own rotation. The feed roller 5a and the separation roller 5b, which is in pressure contact with the feed roller 5a, form a separation clamping section. If multiple sheets of recording material P are fed into the separation clamping section due to the friction of the recording material P, the feed roller 5a and the separation roller 5b separate one of the multiple sheets of recording material P from the others, and only the uppermost sheet is fed towards the downstream side.

[0109] Recording material P fed from cartridge 4 is conveyed towards transfer roller 7 via conveyor roller pair 5c through conveyor path 19. A toner image formed on photosensitive drum 11 is transferred onto recording material P by a voltage transfer bias applied to transfer roller 7. The recording material P onto which the toner image has been transferred by transfer roller 7 is heated and pressurized by fixing section (fixing device) 9, so that the toner image is fixed onto the recording material P. Fixing section 9 includes heating roller 9a and pressure roller 9b, the heating roller including fixing heater 9c, and the pressure roller being pushed towards heating roller 9a. The recording material P onto which the toner image has been fixed is then discharged into discharge tray 14 by discharge roller pair 10.

[0110] If an image is to be formed on both sides of the recording material P, the recording material P with an image already formed on its first surface is rotated back by the discharge roller pair 10 and guided to the double-sided transport path 16. The recording material P, which has been guided to the double-sided transport path 16, is again conveyed towards the transfer roller 7 by the double-sided transport roller pair 5d. After an image is formed on the second surface of the recording material P by the transfer roller 7, the recording material P is discharged to the outside of the imaging device 1 by the discharge roller pair 10. After the toner image is transferred onto the recording material P, the toner remaining on the photosensitive drum 11 is removed by the cleaning unit 13.

[0111] like Figure 17 As shown, the imaging device 1 includes a circuit board 100. The circuit board 100 includes a printed circuit board 101 made of an insulator and a set of electronic components (including electronic components 111 and 121) soldered to the printed circuit board 101. Since conductor patterns are formed in and on the printed circuit board 101, the set of electronic components (111 and 121) are electrically connected to each other. A converter circuit (not shown) is mounted on the circuit board 100. The converter circuit rectifies the voltage supplied from outside the imaging device 1 and converts the voltage to obtain a predetermined voltage required for the imaging process.

[0112] like Figure 17As shown, the circuit board 100 is arranged such that the discharge direction intersects the surface of the printed circuit board 101 on which a set of electronic components, including electronic components (111 and 121), are mounted. Furthermore, the printed circuit board 101 is arranged in the discharge direction between the front cover 70 and the exposure unit 50. A set of electronic components, including electronic components (111 and 121), is mounted on the surface of the printed circuit board 101 facing the exposure unit 50.

[0113] Framework construction

[0114] refer to Figures 18 to 20 The construction of the frame of imaging device 1 will be described in detail. Figure 18 This is a perspective view of the imaging device 1, including the circuit board 100. Figure 18 In the middle, not shown Figure 16 The front cover 70 and outer cover 71 are shown. Note that in... Figure 18 In, it is shown Figure 16 The supply section 200, not shown, is for supplying toner. In this embodiment, a user or maintenance personnel can attach a supply container (not shown) to the supply section 200 of the imaging device 1 to supply developer to the imaging device 1 via the supply section 200. The supply section 200 is connected to the developer container (storage section) 18 in the imaging device 1. Note that the user or maintenance personnel can access the supply section 200 by opening the discharge tray 14 upwards.

[0115] like Figure 18 As shown, the circuit board 100 is arranged on the front side, and the exposure unit 50 and the drive motor 60 are arranged on the rear side (i.e., the negative side in the Y direction) of the circuit board 100. Note that, due to... Figure 18 The exposure unit 50 and drive motor 60, as shown in the diagram, are not actually visible to the user; therefore, the exposure unit 50 and drive motor 60 are... Figure 18 It is shown in dashed lines.

[0116] The aforementioned photosensitive drum 11, charging roller 17, developing roller 12, pickup roller 3, feed roller 5a, transfer roller pair 5c, transfer roller 7, pressure roller 9b, and discharge roller pair 10 are driven and rotated by a single drive motor 60. The driving force from the drive motor 60 is transmitted to the processing and conveying components via a gear train (not shown) arranged on the right side plate frame 172.

[0117] As described above, the drive motor 60 drives many components of the imaging device 1, thus applying a high load to the motor shaft. In this embodiment, the drive motor 60 is a DC brushed motor because DC brushed motors are inexpensive and can drive and rotate under high loads.

[0118] A DC brushed motor rotates when current flows continuously through the coil. Current flows when the motor brushes contact the commutator, which is separated from each other in the direction of rotation. However, a DC brushed motor has the characteristic of generating sparks and radiating electromagnetic noise in the radio frequency band when the motor brushes begin to contact the commutator. Electromagnetic noise in the radio frequency band can cause noise in audio equipment and may lead to malfunctions in measuring instruments. Therefore, since electromagnetic noise can interfere with the operation of equipment arranged around the imaging device 1, it is desirable to prevent electromagnetic noise in the radio frequency band from leaking to the outside.

[0119] Figure 19 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the frame of the imaging device 1 with the circuit board 100 removed from the imaging device 1. Figure 19 As shown, the imaging device 1 includes a right side plate frame (first metal plate) 172, a left side plate frame (second metal plate) 173, a base frame 174, a bridging frame (frame member, metal plate strut) 175, and a lower frame 76. The right side plate frame 172 supports the upper right end portion (first end portion) of the photosensitive drum 11 in the X direction, and the left side plate frame 173 supports the upper left end portion (second end portion) of the photosensitive drum 11 in the X direction. The base frame 174 is disposed on the bottom surface of the imaging device 1 and supports the right side plate frame 172 and the left side plate frame 173 from below. The lower frame 76 is disposed between the right side plate frame 172 and the left side plate frame 173 and extends substantially rearward in the XY plane. Note that the right side plate frame 172, the left side plate frame 173, the bridging frame 175, and the lower frame 76 are made of metal, and the base frame 174 is made of resin.

[0120] At the edge portion of the right panel frame 172 in the Y direction, a curved portion 172a is formed to reinforce the right panel frame 172. Similarly, at the edge portion of the left panel frame 173 in the Y direction, a curved portion 173a is formed to reinforce the left panel frame 173. The curved portion 172a bends towards the positive side in the X direction so as to be substantially parallel to the XZ plane, and the curved portion 173a bends towards the negative side in the X direction so as to be substantially parallel to the XZ plane.

[0121] A bridging frame 175 is arranged in the X direction between the right side plate frame 172 and the left side plate frame 173, and supports the exposure unit 50 via a support base 51. The bridging frame 175 includes a support surface 175a, a reinforcing surface 175b, and a reinforcing surface 175c. The support surface 175a supports the exposure unit 50. The reinforcing surface 175b is formed by bending the support surface 175a downwards from its front side. The reinforcing surface 175c is formed by bending the support surface 175a upwards from its front side. The support surface 175a extends substantially in the XY plane, and the reinforcing surfaces 175b and 175c extend substantially in the XZ plane.

[0122] When viewed from the front, the reinforcing surface 175b of the bridging frame 175 overlaps with a portion of the bent portion 173a of the left side plate frame 173. The rear side of the reinforcing surface 175b is welded to the bent portion 173a, thereby connecting the bridging frame 175 and the left side plate frame 173 to each other. Additionally, when viewed from the front, the reinforcing surface 175c of the bridging frame 175 overlaps with a portion of the bent portion 172a of the right side plate frame 172. The rear side of the reinforcing surface 175c is welded to the bent portion 172a, thereby connecting the bridging frame 175 and the right side plate frame 172 to each other.

[0123] Additionally, in region R1, the support surface 175a of the bridging frame 175 is connected to the right side plate frame 172. The end portion of the support surface 175a on its positive side in the X direction is provided with a plurality of protrusions 750-1, which fit into openings 720-1 formed in the right side plate frame 172. Figure 19 In the diagram, since a portion of the opening 720-1 is not actually visible, this portion is shown with a dashed line. Additionally, in region R3, the support surface 175a of the bridging frame 175 is connected to the left side plate frame 173. The end portion of the support surface 175a on the negative side in the X direction is provided with a protrusion (not shown) similar to the protrusion 750-1. The protrusion (not shown) fits into the opening (not shown) formed in the left side plate frame 173.

[0124] As will be described in detail below, in addition to the supporting surface 175a, the reinforcing surface 175b, and the reinforcing surface 175c, the bridging frame 175 also includes a reinforcing surface 175d. Figure 19 (Not shown in the image). A reinforcing surface 175d is formed by bending the supporting surface 175a downwards on the rear side. In region R2, the reinforcing surface 175d of the bridging frame 175 is connected to the right side plate frame 172. The end portion of the reinforcing surface 175d on the positive side in the X direction is provided with a protrusion 750-2, which fits into an opening 720-2 formed in the right side plate frame 172. Figure 19 In the diagram, since a portion of the opening 720-2 is not actually visible, this portion is shown with a dashed line. In region R4, the reinforcing surface 175d of the bridging frame 175 is connected to the left side plate frame 173. The end portion of the reinforcing surface 175d on the negative side in the X direction is provided with a protrusion (not shown) similar to the protrusion 750-2. The protrusion (not shown) fits into the opening (not shown) formed in the left side plate frame 173.

[0125] A drive motor 60 is mounted on the right side plate frame 172 and positioned in the X direction between the right side plate frame 172 and the left side plate frame 173. The rotation shaft 60a of the drive motor 60 passes through the right side plate frame 172 and is exposed on the positive side in the X direction. In addition to the aforementioned curved portion 172a, the right side plate frame 172 also includes curved portions 172b and 172c. The curved portions 172b and 172c are positioned closer to the front than the curved portion 172a.

[0126] Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting the imaging device 1 in the YZ plane at the location where the exposure unit 50 is arranged. In other words, Figure 20 Observation is performed in the X direction (i.e., the direction of the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 11). Figure 19 The image device 1 shown is a cross-sectional view of section P1. Note that, due to... Figure 20 This is a diagram of section P1 viewed from the negative side to the positive side in the X direction, therefore in Figure 20 The left side panel frame 173 is not shown in the image.

[0127] like Figure 20 As shown, in the imaging device 1, the drive motor 60 is positioned in the front of the photosensitive drum 11 and the rear of the circuit board 100 in the front-rear direction. Therefore, the position of the drive motor 60 is determined by the positions of the two components (i.e., the photosensitive drum 11 and the circuit board 100). Furthermore, a portion of the drive motor 60 protrudes forward from the curved portion 172a of the right side plate frame 172. Therefore, the curved portion 172a formed to reinforce the right side plate frame 172 cannot be formed near the drive motor 60. For this reason, the curved portion 172a is only formed in the area above the drive motor 60.

[0128] As previously described, the curved portion 172a is formed to reinforce the right side plate frame 172. Therefore, the portion of the right side plate frame 172 to which the drive motor 60 is fixed (i.e., the portion or mounting surface to which the drive motor 60 is fixed) has less rigidity than the other portions of the right side plate frame 172.

[0129] like Figure 20 As shown, the drive motor 60 is positioned in the imaging device 1 in the vertical direction below the support surface 175a of the bridging frame 175 and above the lower frame 76.

[0130] The drive motor 60 includes a rotating shaft 60a (e.g., Figure 19As shown, a pinion (not shown) is attached to a rotating shaft 60a. The pinion engages with another gear and receives forces in the radial direction of the rotating shaft 60a. Therefore, if the portion to which the drive motor 60 is fixed has low stiffness, the portion to which the drive motor 60 is fixed will deform due to the driving force of the drive motor 60. If the portion to which the drive motor 60 is fixed deforms, and the orientation of the drive motor 60 fixed to that portion changes, the engagement between the rotating shaft 60a and the pinion deteriorates, resulting in uneven rotational speed. As a result, image defects, such as density variations occurring at specific intervals, will occur in the image formed on the recording material P. In other words, if the portion to which the drive motor 60 is fixed has low stiffness, the image quality may be reduced.

[0131] To prevent the drive motor 60 from protruding from the bent portion 172a of the right side plate frame 172, the size of the right side plate frame 172 can be increased. However, if the size of the right side plate frame 172 is increased, the cost and weight of the imaging device 1 may be adversely increased.

[0132] For reference Figure 19 The bridging frame 175, as described, includes reinforcing surfaces 175b and 175c formed by bending the support surface 175a on its front side. The reinforcing surface 175b is formed by bending the support surface 175a downwards, and the reinforcing surface 175c is formed by bending the support surface 175a upwards. Note that if the entire support surface 175a is bent upwards in the X direction from one end to the other, a portion of the bridging frame 175 may interfere with the exposure unit 50. Additionally, if the entire support surface 175a is bent downwards in the X direction from one end to the other, a portion of the bridging frame 175 may interfere with the drive motor 60.

[0133] like Figure 20 As shown, when viewed in the X direction, the reinforcing surface 175b overlaps with a portion of the drive motor 60; that is, the reinforcing surface 175b partially overlaps with the drive motor. Therefore, it can be understood again that if the entire support surface 175a bends downwards, a portion of the bridging frame 175 may interfere with the drive motor 60. Even if the entire support surface 175a bends downwards and prevents a portion of the bridging frame 175 from interfering with the drive motor 60, the bridging frame 175 will still cover the drive motor 60 on the front side, and after the bridging frame 175 is welded to the right side plate frame 172 and the left side plate frame 173, the drive motor 60 cannot be detached from and attached to the right side plate frame 172. Therefore, the ease of assembly and the ease of replacement during maintenance may be significantly reduced.

[0134] For this reason, in areas where the drive motor 60 is not arranged along the X direction, a reinforcing surface 175b is formed by bending the support surface 175a downwards, and in areas where the drive motor 60 is arranged along the X direction, a reinforcing surface 175c is formed by bending the support surface 175a upwards. Therefore, the bent portions of the bridging frame 175 formed by bending the support surface 175a (i.e., the reinforcing surfaces 175b and 175c) are discontinuously formed. Consequently, the stiffness of the bent portions is lower than that of the bent portions formed continuously. The portion of the bridging frame 175 where the bent portions are discontinuously formed is located near the exposure unit 50. Therefore, if the stiffness of this portion decreases, the bridging frame 175 may become difficult to stably support the exposure unit 50.

[0135] As described above, the bridging frame 175 includes a reinforcing surface 175d formed by bending the support surface 175a downwards on the rear side. The reinforcing surface 175d extends substantially in the XZ plane and is arranged in the Y direction between the photosensitive drum 11 and the drive motor 60. That is, as... Figure 20 As shown, the bridging frame 175, consisting of supporting surface 175a, reinforcing surface 175b, and reinforcing surface 175d, is approximately U-shaped. Note that since reinforcing surface 175c is located in a position where it is not visible, therefore... Figure 20 In the middle, due to exposure unit 50, the reinforced surface 175c was not in Figure 20 As shown in the diagram. The bridging frame 175 also includes a fixing surface 175e, which is formed by bending the reinforcing surface 175d rearward. The fixing surface 175e is welded to the lower frame 76, thereby securing the bridging frame 175 to the lower frame 76.

[0136] The bridging frame 175 used to support the exposure unit 50 needs to have high stiffness. This is because if the bridging frame 175 has low stiffness, the exposure unit 50 will be prone to vibration due to vibrations transmitted from the outside or the drive motor 60, and displacement of the exposure position may lead to image defects. Therefore, to improve the stiffness of the bridging frame 175, the bridging frame 175 supporting the exposure unit 50 has a shape that increases the moment of inertia of the cross section of the bridging frame 175. Specifically, the bridging frame 175 includes three curved portions, which are the aforementioned reinforcing surfaces 175b, 175c, and 175d. That is, the bridging frame 175 achieves sufficient stiffness by bending a single metal plate.

[0137] Arrangement and shape of shielding metal plates

[0138] Next, we will refer to Figures 21 to 24The arrangement and fastening method of the shielding metal plate 77 in this embodiment will be described. First, the arrangement of the shielding metal plate 77 and the shielding method for electromagnetic noise radiated from the drive motor 60 will be described.

[0139] As mentioned earlier, the DC brushed motor used in this embodiment has the characteristic of radiating electromagnetic noise. This embodiment reduces the amount of electromagnetic noise radiated to the outside of the imaging device 1 by covering the drive motor 60, which is a noise radiation source, with a metal plate that does not transmit electromagnetic waves. To further reduce electromagnetic noise radiation, a shielding metal plate 77 is newly added to the imaging device 1.

[0140] Figure 21 This is a perspective view of the frame construction, in which shielding metal plate 77 is added. Figure 19 In the frame shown, the shielding metal plate 77 includes a base surface 77a, a curved surface 77b, and a shielding surface 77c. The shielding metal plate 77 is a single metal plate on which a drawing process (i.e., stamping) has been performed. Both the base surface 77a and the shielding surface 77c extend substantially in the XZ plane, with the shielding surface 77c closer to the positive side in the Y direction than the base surface 77a. The curved surface 77b connects the base surface 77a and the shielding surface 77c and is curved to bulge towards the positive side in the Y direction, as shown in the figure. The shielding metal plate 77 covers a portion of the drive motor 60 and reduces the radiation of electromagnetic noise.

[0141] As will be described in detail below, a shielding metal plate 77 is arranged in the area where the drive motor 60 is arranged along the X direction and is connected to each of the bridging frame 175 and the right side plate frame 172.

[0142] Figure 22 This is a cross-sectional view obtained by cutting the imaging device 1 in the YZ plane at the location where the drive motor 60 is arranged. In other words, Figure 22 Observation is performed in the X direction (i.e., the direction of the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 11). Figure 21 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the imaging device 1, section P2. Note that... Figure 20 The same as in the middle, Figure 22 The left side panel frame 173 is not shown in the image.

[0143] like Figure 22 As shown, the drive motor 60 is surrounded in the Z direction by the support surface 175a of the bridging frame 175 and the lower frame 76. Additionally, in the Y direction, the drive motor 60 is surrounded by the reinforcing surface 175d of the bridging frame 175, the shielding metal plate 77, and the plate support rod 178. The plate support rod 178 is a metal plate made of metal and is arranged closer to the outer side (i.e., the front side in the Y direction) than the circuit board 100. Furthermore, in the X direction, the drive motor 60 is surrounded by the right plate frame 172 and the left plate frame 173, as shown... Figure 19 and Figure 21 As shown. In this way, electromagnetic noise radiated from the drive motor 60 is blocked in virtually all directions.

[0144] Additionally, as described above, the drive motor 60 is arranged from the curved portion 172a of the right side plate frame 172 and the reinforcing surface 175b of the bridging frame 175. Figure 22 (Not shown) protrudes in the forward direction (i.e., the direction opposite to the photosensitive drum 11). For this reason, the shielding metal plate 77 is formed in three dimensions by drawing a portion of the shielding metal plate 77 and covers the front side of the drive motor 60.

[0145] Preferably, the shielding metal plate 77 and the circuit board 100 are separated by a predetermined distance, such that the current flowing in the circuit board 100 does not leak to the shielding metal plate 77. Therefore, the drawing depth of the shielding metal plate 77 is determined by the distance between the shielding metal plate 77 and the circuit board 100. For this reason, the shielding metal plate 77 does not cover the lower portion of the front side of the drive motor 60. The portion not covered by the shielding metal plate 77 is covered by the plate support rod 178.

[0146] The shielding metal plate 77 is arranged adjacent to the drive motor 60 and covers the upper part of the front side of the drive motor 60. Therefore, it is not necessary for the plate support rod 178 to extend upward. That is, the electromagnetic noise shielded by the plate support rod 178 can be limited to electromagnetic noise radiated from the lower part of the drive motor 60. Therefore, the size of the plate support rod 178 can be reduced, which can reduce the size and cost of the imaging device 1.

[0147] Next, we will refer to Figure 23 and Figure 24 Describe the fastening method of the shielding metal plate 77 and the rigidity of the frame. Figure 23 This is a front view showing a portion of the imaging device 1 with a shielding metal plate 77 fixed to it. Figure 24 This is a perspective view of the shielding metal plate 77.

[0148] As previously described, in the bridging frame 175, the curved portions (i.e., the reinforcing surfaces 175b and 175c) are formed discontinuously in the X direction to prevent the bridging frame 175 from interfering with the drive motor 60. For this reason, the stiffness of the bridging frame 175 is locally reduced because the reinforcing surfaces 175b and 175c are separated from each other. Furthermore, due to the portion that fixes the drive motor 60, the curved portion 172a of the right-side plate frame 172 is also formed to be discontinuous with either the curved portions 172b or 172c. Therefore, the stiffness of the right-side plate frame 172 is locally reduced.

[0149] In other words, the reinforcing surface 175b does not extend across the entire bridging frame 175 in the X direction, and the curved portion 172a does not extend across the entire right side plate frame 172 in the Z direction. That is, the stiffness of the bridging frame 175 is locally lower than the stiffness of the bridging frame where the curved portion extends across the entire bridging frame in the X direction, and the stiffness of the right side plate frame 172 is locally lower than the stiffness of the right side plate frame where the curved portion extends across the entire right side plate frame in the Z direction.

[0150] like Figure 23 As shown, a curved portion 77-1 is formed in the left-hand region of the base surface 77a of the shielding metal plate 77. (As indicated...) Figure 24 As shown, a portion of the bent portion 77-1 bends towards the rear. The bent portion 77-1 is inserted into a rectangular hole formed in the reinforcing surface 175b of the bridging frame 175, such that the shielding metal plate 77 and the bridging frame 175 are positioned relative to each other in the vertical direction. In this state, the shielding metal plate 77 is fastened to the reinforcing surface 175b of the bridging frame 175 via screw B1.

[0151] Additionally, curved portions 77-2, 77-3, and 77-4 are formed in the right region of the base surface 77a of the shielding metal plate 77. For example... Figure 24 As shown, a portion of each of the bent portions 77-2, 77-3, and 77-4 bends rearward. The bent portions 77-2, 77-3, and 77-4 are inserted into the reinforcing surface 175c formed in the bridging frame 175. Figure 19 In the rectangular hole portion shown, the shielding metal plate 77 and the bridging frame 175 are positioned relative to each other in the vertical and horizontal directions. In this state, the shielding metal plate 77 is fastened to the reinforcing surface 175c of the bridging frame 175 by screws B2 and B3.

[0152] Additionally, a curved portion 77-5 is formed in the upper region of the shielding surface 77c of the shielding metal plate 77. For example... Figure 24 As shown, a portion of the bent portion 77-5 bends towards the rear. The bent portion 77-5 is inserted into the bent portion 172b formed in the right side plate frame 172. Figure 19 In the rectangular hole portion shown, the shielding metal plate 77 and the right side plate frame 172 are positioned relative to each other in the left-right direction. In this state, the shielding metal plate 77 is fastened to the curved portion 172b of the right side plate frame 172 by screw B5.

[0153] Additionally, a curved portion 77-6 is formed in the lower region of the shielding surface 77c of the shielding metal plate 77. For example... Figure 24As shown, a portion of the bent portion 77-6 bends towards the rear. The bent portion 77-6 is inserted into the bent portion 172c formed in the right side plate frame 172. Figure 19 In the rectangular hole portion shown, the shielding metal plate 77 and the right side plate frame 172 are positioned relative to each other in the left-right direction. In this state, the shielding metal plate 77 is fastened to the curved portion 172c of the right side plate frame 172 by screw B4.

[0154] Each of the bridging frame 175 and the right side plate frame 172 has low stiffness when they are alone. However, the stiffness of the bridging frame 175 and the right side plate frame 172 can be increased by arranging a shielding metal plate 77 for shielding electromagnetic noise between the bridging frame 175 and the right side plate frame 172. That is, the shielding metal plate 77 has the function of shielding electromagnetic noise radiated from the drive motor 60 and increasing the stiffness of the frame of the imaging device 1.

[0155] Furthermore, as in this embodiment, it is preferable that the first edge of the reinforcing surface 175b in the X direction (i.e., the edge on the negative side in the X direction) is connected to the left side plate frame (second metal plate) 173, and the second edge of the reinforcing surface 175b in the X direction (i.e., the edge on the positive side in the X direction) is connected to the shielding metal plate 77. In this structure, the structure formed by the reinforcing surface 175b and the shielding metal plate 77 is continuously formed from the right side plate frame (first metal plate) 172 to the left side plate frame (second metal plate) 173 in the X direction. Therefore, the rigidity of the frame of the imaging device 1 can be further increased.

[0156] As described above, this embodiment provides a frame structure for an imaging device that allows for miniaturization of the imaging device, provides high rigidity to the frame, and reduces electromagnetic noise radiated outwards.

[0157] More specifically, the shielding metal plate 77 is arranged to block electromagnetic noise radiated from the drive motor 60. Therefore, the rigidity of the frame can be increased, and the vibration of the exposure unit 50 and the deformation of the portion where the drive motor 60 is fixed can be reduced.

[0158] This disclosure includes at least the following constructions.

[0159] Construction 1

[0160] An imaging device, the imaging device comprising:

[0161] An image carrier component, the image carrier component being configured to rotate;

[0162] A frame member, the frame member including a supporting surface and being made of metal;

[0163] An exposure unit configured to emit light onto the surface of the image carrier member and form an electrostatic latent image thereon, the exposure unit being arranged such that, when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis of the image carrier member, the emission direction of the light emitted onto the image carrier member is inclined relative to the support surface;

[0164] A support member, the support member being made of metal and configured to support the exposure unit which is tilted relative to the support surface; and

[0165] A positioning member, made of resin and configured to contact and position the exposure unit.

[0166] Wherein, the supporting surface of the frame member is in contact with at least one of the supporting member or the positioning member, and

[0167] The exposure unit is configured to be attached to the frame member via the support member and the positioning member.

[0168] Construction 2

[0169] According to the imaging device described in configuration 1, the supporting member is configured to form a supporting plane, which is a virtual plane on which the exposure unit is positioned, and

[0170] The positioning member is configured to contact the exposure unit supported by the support member in order to position the exposure unit on the support plane.

[0171] Construction 3

[0172] According to the imaging device described in configuration 2, the supporting member is a first supporting member.

[0173] The imaging device further includes a second support member and a third support member, which are configured to support the exposure unit together with the first support member at different positions when viewed in the vertical direction.

[0174] The first support member, the second support member, and the third support member each include a support portion configured to support the exposure unit, and the support plane is defined by the support portion.

[0175] Construction 4

[0176] According to any one of constructions 1 to 3, the imaging device, wherein the exposure unit includes abutting portion that contacts and is supported by the support member, and

[0177] The imaging device further includes a pushing member configured to push the exposure unit, thereby preventing the abutted portion from separating from the support member fixed to the frame member.

[0178] Construction 5

[0179] According to any one of constructions 1 to 4, the imaging device, wherein the exposure unit includes a first protruding portion, the first protruding portion including a shaft portion,

[0180] The frame member includes a first hole portion formed in a first direction, and the first protrusion portion is configured to fit into the first hole portion.

[0181] The positioning component includes:

[0182] The second hole portion is disposed on the first side of the positioning member, the second hole portion is formed in a second direction different from the first direction, and the first protrusion portion is configured to fit into the second hole portion. The first side is the side of the positioning member to which the exposure unit is attached.

[0183] The second protrusion is disposed on a second side of the positioning member opposite to the first side, and includes a shaft portion extending in the first direction, and is configured to fit into the first hole portion.

[0184] Construction 6

[0185] According to any one of constructions 1 to 5, the imaging device further includes a frame body, the frame body including a pair of side plates arranged at two end sides of the image carrier member in the direction of the rotation axis of the image carrier member, and configured to support the frame member.

[0186] The supporting member is the first supporting member.

[0187] The imaging device includes a second support member, which is arranged at a position separate from the first support member in the direction of the rotation axis, faces the first support member in the direction of the rotation axis, and is configured to support the exposure unit attached to the positioning member.

[0188] The first support member and the second support member are configured to support the exposure unit at a position upstream of the upstream edge of the frame member in the emission direction of light emitted from the exposure unit to the image carrier member.

[0189] Construction 7

[0190] According to the imaging device described in configuration 6, the imaging device further includes a third support member configured to support the exposure unit at a position downstream of the first support member and the second support member in the emission direction.

[0191] Construction 8

[0192] According to the imaging device described in configuration 6 or 7, when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis, the upstream edge of the exposure unit is located upstream of the upstream edge of the pair of side plates in the emission direction.

[0193] Construction 9

[0194] According to the imaging device described in configuration 8, the imaging device further includes a circuit board on which multiple electronic components are mounted.

[0195] The circuit board is arranged such that, when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis, at least one of the plurality of electronic components is positioned upstream of the upstream edge of the pair of side plates in the emission direction and below the exposure unit in the vertical direction.

[0196] Construction 10

[0197] According to the imaging device of configuration 9, the positioning member includes a shielding wall arranged to separate the exposure unit from one of the plurality of electronic components.

[0198] Construction 11

[0199] According to any one of constructions 1 to 10, the imaging device further includes:

[0200] A first metal plate, configured to support a first end portion of the image carrier member in the direction of its rotation axis; and

[0201] A second metal plate, configured to support the image-bearing member at a second end portion opposite to the first end portion in the direction of the rotation axis.

[0202] The frame member is a third metal plate extending between the first metal plate and the second metal plate in the direction of the rotation axis, and is connected to each of the first metal plate and the second metal plate.

[0203] Construction 12

[0204] An imaging device, the imaging device comprising:

[0205] An image carrier component, the image carrier component being configured to rotate;

[0206] A first metal plate is configured to support a first end portion of the image carrier member in the direction of its rotation axis.

[0207] A second metal plate is configured to support the image carrier member at a second end portion opposite to the first end portion in the direction of the rotation axis.

[0208] A frame member, arranged between the first metal plate and the second metal plate in the direction of the rotation axis, and connected to each of the first metal plate and the second metal plate; and

[0209] A motor configured to drive at least one of the image-carrying member, the conveying member, or the processing member, the conveying member being configured to convey recording material, the processing member being configured to form an image on the recording material, the motor being disposed on the first metal plate and positioned between the first metal plate and the second metal plate in the direction of the rotation axis.

[0210] The frame member includes a reinforcing surface formed in a region along the rotation axis where the motor is not located.

[0211] When viewed along the axis of rotation, the reinforcing surface and the motor partially overlap each other, and the motor protrudes from the reinforcing surface in a direction opposite to that of the image-carrying member.

[0212] The imaging device further includes a shielding metal plate arranged in the region where the motor is arranged along the rotation axis, connected to each of the first metal plate and the frame members, and configured to cover a portion of the motor when viewed from a direction opposite to the image-carrying member.

[0213] Construction 13

[0214] According to the imaging device described in configuration 12, the first edge of the reinforcing surface in the direction of the rotation axis is connected to the second metal plate, and

[0215] Wherein, the second edge of the reinforcing surface, which is opposite to the first edge in the direction of the rotation axis, is connected to the shielding metal plate, such that the structure formed by the reinforcing surface and the shielding metal plate is continuously formed from the first metal plate to the second metal plate.

[0216] Construction 14

[0217] According to the imaging device described in configuration 12 or 13, the imaging device further includes an exposure unit configured to expose the image-bearing member.

[0218] The frame member includes a support surface that extends in the direction of the rotation axis, and the exposure unit is supported on the support surface.

[0219] Construction 15

[0220] According to the imaging device described in configuration 14, the frame member includes a second reinforcing surface extending in the direction of the rotation axis, and

[0221] When viewed in the direction of the rotation axis, the second reinforcing surface is positioned between the motor and the image-carrying member.

[0222] Construction 16

[0223] According to the imaging device described in configuration 15, the frame member includes a third reinforcing surface that extends over the region where the motor is arranged along the rotation axis.

[0224] The shielding metal plate is fixed to the reinforcing surface and the third reinforcing surface.

[0225] Construction 17

[0226] According to the imaging device described in configuration 16, the frame member is a single metal plate, and

[0227] The reinforcing surface, the supporting surface, the second reinforcing surface, and the third reinforcing surface are formed by bending the single metal plate.

[0228] Construction 18

[0229] According to any one of constructions 14 to 17, the imaging device wherein the supporting surface of the frame member includes protruding portions projecting toward one side and the other side in the direction of the rotation axis, and

[0230] The frame member is connected to the first metal plate and the second metal plate via a protruding portion fitted into an opening formed in the first metal plate and the second metal plate.

[0231] Construction 19

[0232] According to the imaging device described in construction 16 or 17, each of the first metal plate and the second metal plate includes a curved portion, and

[0233] Specifically, the frame member is fixed to the first metal plate and the second metal plate by fixing the reinforcing surface of the frame member to the curved portion of the second metal plate and fixing the third reinforcing surface of the frame member to the curved portion of the first metal plate.

[0234] Construction 20

[0235] According to the imaging device described in configuration 19, when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis, the motor protrudes from the curved portion of the first metal plate in a direction opposite to that of the image-bearing member, and

[0236] The first metal plate includes a second curved portion, which is formed to be lower than the curved portion of the first metal plate in the vertical direction.

[0237] Construction 21

[0238] According to the imaging device of configuration 20, the shielding metal plate is fixed to the reinforcing surface and the third reinforcing surface of the frame member, and fixed to the second curved portion of the first metal plate.

[0239] Construction 22

[0240] According to any one of constructions 12 to 21, the imaging device wherein the shielding metal plate is a single metal plate, and a portion of the shielding metal plate is bent according to the shape of the motor.

[0241] Other embodiments

[0242] Although the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of the appended claims is to be given the broadest interpretation in order to cover all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. An imaging device, the imaging device comprising: An image carrier component, the image carrier component being configured to rotate; A pair of side plates, the pair of side plates being arranged at both ends of the image carrier member along the rotation axis of the image carrier member; A frame member, the frame member including a supporting surface and being made of metal, the frame member being supported by the pair of side plates; An exposure unit configured to emit light onto the surface of the image carrier member and form an electrostatic latent image thereon, the exposure unit being arranged such that when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis of the image carrier member, the emission direction of the light emitted onto the image carrier member is inclined relative to the supporting surface, the exposure unit including a first supported portion and a second supported portion; A first support member, the first support member being made of metal and configured to contact the first supported portion and support the exposure unit; The second support member is arranged at a position separate from the position of the first support member in the direction of the rotation axis, faces the first support member in the direction of the rotation axis, and is configured to contact the second supported portion and support the exposure unit; as well as A positioning member, made of resin and configured to contact and position the exposure unit. The first support member and the second support member are fixed to the frame member and configured to support the exposure unit, thereby causing the exposure unit to be in an inclined position relative to the support surface. Wherein, the supporting surface of the frame member is in contact with at least one of the first supporting member or the positioning member, and The exposure unit is configured to be attached to the frame member via the first support member, the second support member, and the positioning member.

2. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein, The imaging device further includes a pushing member configured to push the exposure unit, thereby preventing the first supported portion from separating from the first supporting member.

3. The imaging device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The exposure unit includes a first protruding portion, and the first protruding portion includes a shaft portion. The frame member includes a first hole portion, which is formed in a first direction, and The positioning component includes: The second hole portion is disposed on the first side of the positioning member, the second hole portion is formed in a second direction different from the first direction, and the first protrusion portion is configured to fit into the second hole portion. The first side is the side of the positioning member to which the exposure unit is attached. The second protrusion is disposed on a second side of the positioning member opposite to the first side, and includes a shaft portion extending in the first direction, and is configured to fit into the first hole portion.

4. The imaging device according to claim 1 or 2, in, The first support member and the second support member are configured to support the exposure unit at a position upstream of the upstream edge of the frame member in the emission direction.

5. The imaging apparatus of claim 4, further comprising a third support member configured to support the exposure unit downstream of the first support member and the second support member in the emission direction.

6. The imaging device according to claim 4, wherein, When viewed in the direction of the rotation axis, the upstream edge of the exposure unit is located upstream of the upstream edge of the pair of side plates in the emission direction.

7. The imaging device according to claim 6, further comprising a circuit board on which a plurality of electronic components are mounted. in, The circuit board is arranged such that, when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis, at least one of the plurality of electronic components is positioned upstream of the upstream edge of the pair of side plates in the emission direction and below the exposure unit in the vertical direction.

8. The imaging device according to claim 7, wherein, The positioning member includes a shielding wall arranged to separate the exposure unit from one of the plurality of electronic components.

9. The imaging device according to claim 1 or 2, in, The pair of side plates include: A first metal plate, configured to support a first end portion of the image carrier member in the direction of its rotation axis; and A second metal plate, configured to support the image-bearing member at a second end portion opposite to the first end portion in the direction of the rotation axis. The frame member is a third metal plate extending between the first metal plate and the second metal plate in the direction of the rotation axis, and is connected to each of the first metal plate and the second metal plate.

Images