imaging device

Abstract

The present application relates to an image forming apparatus including: an operation unit including an operation unit contact; a voltage control board including a voltage control board contact; an electric wire electrically connecting the voltage control board and the operation unit; a first holding unit configured to hold a first end of the electric wire electrically connected to the voltage control board contact; and a second holding unit configured to be separate from the first holding unit, the second holding unit being configured to hold a second end of the electric wire electrically connected to the operation unit contact; the electric wire is not linearly connected between the first holding unit and the second holding unit; at least a part of the electric wire between the first holding unit and the second holding unit is not held by the first holding unit and the second holding unit.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] For example, according to JP 2021-51328 A, an electrophotographic imaging apparatus includes an operating unit for performing various imaging-related operations based on a voltage supply, and a printed circuit board for controlling and supplying the voltage from an external power source to the operating unit. On the printed circuit board, board contacts are formed for each operating unit as the destination of the voltage supply, for making contact with each operating unit. The board contacts of the printed circuit board and the operating unit contacts of the operating units are electrically connected to each other via power supply lines.

[0003] The first end of the power supply line is connected to the plate contact via a first spring, and the second end is connected to the operating unit contact via a second spring. The power supply line is held from the first end to the second end by a holding part, which also holds the first spring and the second spring.

[0004] Because the retaining part holds the entire power supply line, its size is relatively large. Furthermore, since the power supply line is not insulated or covered, the retaining part needs to be formed of, for example, insulating and flame-retardant components. This increases the cost. Additionally, the power supply line is held by the retaining part at multiple locations between the first and second ends. During the assembly of the imaging device, there are cases where the printed circuit board mounting position and the operating unit mounting position may change due to manufacturing errors, etc. In such cases, the power supply line held by the retaining part at multiple locations may not be able to properly supply voltage to the operating unit. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to one aspect of the invention, an imaging apparatus is configured to image on a recording material. The imaging apparatus includes: an operation unit configured to operate in response to a voltage supply, the operation unit including operation unit contacts; a voltage control board configured to control a voltage supplied from an external power source to apply a voltage to the operation unit, the voltage control board including voltage control board contacts; a wire electrically connecting the voltage control board and the operation unit; a first holding unit configured to hold a first end of the wire electrically connected to the voltage control board contacts; and a second holding unit configured to be separate from the first holding unit, the second holding unit being configured to hold a second end of the wire electrically connected to the operation unit contacts. The wire does not connect the first holding unit and the second holding unit in a straight line. At least a portion of the wire between the first holding unit and the second holding unit is not held by the first holding unit and the second holding unit.

[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 an external perspective view showing the imaging device.

[0008] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the imaging device.

[0009] Figure 3 It is a diagram used to illustrate the layout of a circuit board.

[0010] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the circuit board.

[0011] Figure 5 It is a block diagram used to illustrate the function of a circuit board.

[0012] Figure 6A This is a perspective view showing the rear side of the imaging device with the rear cover closed.

[0013] Figure 6B This is a perspective view showing the rear side of the imaging device with the rear cover open.

[0014] Figure 7 This is a perspective view showing the processing unit before installation.

[0015] Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the processing unit after installation.

[0016] Figure 9 This is a side view showing the processing unit after installation.

[0017] Figure 10 This is a perspective view showing the charging contacts and de-energizing contacts of the processing unit.

[0018] Figure 11 This is a perspective view showing the developing contacts and scraper contacts of the processing unit.

[0019] Figure 12 This is a perspective view showing the contact components of the processing unit.

[0020] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a high-voltage contact unit according to a first exemplary embodiment.

[0021] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram showing the board contact unit.

[0022] Figure 15 This is an enlarged view showing the cable retainer.

[0023] Figure 16 This is a side view showing the first cable holding unit.

[0024] Figure 17 This is a side view showing the second cable holding unit and the third cable holding unit.

[0025] Figure 18 This is a front view showing a high-voltage contact unit.

[0026] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram showing a high-voltage cable.

[0027] Figure 20A This is a schematic diagram showing a high-voltage contact unit in a state where there is no positional deviation relative to a reference position.

[0028] Figure 20B This is a schematic diagram showing a high-voltage contact unit with a positional deviation relative to a reference position on the negative side of the Z direction.

[0029] Figure 20C This is a schematic diagram showing a high-voltage contact unit with a positional deviation relative to a reference position on the positive side of the Z direction.

[0030] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a plate contact unit of a second exemplary embodiment.

[0031] Figure 22 This is an exploded view illustrating the plate contact unit of the second exemplary embodiment.

[0032] Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the board contact unit and circuit board of a second exemplary embodiment.

[0033] Figure 24A This is a schematic diagram showing a high-voltage contact unit in a state where there is no positional offset relative to a reference position.

[0034] Figure 24B This is a schematic diagram showing a high-voltage contact unit in a state where its position is offset on the negative side of the Y direction relative to a reference position.

[0035] Figure 24C This is a schematic diagram showing a high-voltage contact unit in a state where its position is offset relative to a reference position on the positive side of the Y direction. Detailed Implementation

[0036] In the following, exemplary embodiments for carrying out the invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative arrangements of the components described in the exemplary embodiments should be appropriately varied depending on the construction of the device to which the invention is applied and various conditions. That is, the scope of the invention is not limited to the following exemplary embodiments.

[0037] First exemplary embodiment

[0038] Imaging equipment

[0039] First, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 An overview of the imaging apparatus of this exemplary embodiment is described. Figure 1 This is an external perspective view showing the imaging device 1 according to this exemplary embodiment. Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view showing the construction of the imaging device 1. The imaging device 1 of this exemplary embodiment is a monochrome laser beam printer that images onto a recording material P based on image information input from an external device (not shown), such as a personal computer. Examples of recording materials P used for imaging include paper (such as plain paper, thick paper), plastic film (such as sheets for overhead projectors), and sheets of various materials (such as cloth).

[0040] In the following description, when the imaging device 1 is mounted on a horizontal surface, the height direction of the imaging device (the direction opposite to the vertical direction) is referred to as the Z-direction. The direction intersects with and is parallel to the photosensitive drum 11 described later (see [link to description]). Figure 2 The direction of the rotation axis (main scanning direction, width direction) is defined as the X direction. The direction intersecting the X and Z directions is defined as the Y direction. The X, Y, and Z directions preferably intersect each other perpendicularly. For convenience, the positive side of the X direction is called the right side, the negative side of the X direction is called the left side, the positive side of the Y direction is called the front side or front face side, the negative side of the Y direction is called the rear side or back face side, the positive side of the Z direction is called the top side, and the negative side of the Z direction is called the bottom side.

[0041] like Figure 1 As shown, the imaging device 1 includes a sheet cassette 4 for storing recording material P and a sheet discharge tray 14 for discharging stacked recording material P. The sheet cassette 4 is configured to be pull-out in the Y direction, and a user can replenish the recording material P to the sheet cassette 4. The recording material P delivered from the sheet cassette 4 is discharged from the discharge port 15 in the discharge direction (Y direction) after imaging and stacked on the sheet discharge tray 14. The discharge port 15 through which the recording material P discharged to the sheet discharge tray 14 passes is formed in the support frame body 78 (see description below). Figure 3 On the upper surface of the imager. That is, the imaging device 1 of this exemplary embodiment is an upper surface discharge device.

[0042] Imaging device 1 includes a support frame body 78, a front cover 70, a rear cover 701, and an outer cover 71 mounted on the support frame body 78. The outer cover 71 is disposed on the side or top surface of imaging device 1 and, together with the front cover 70 and the rear cover 701, constitutes the exterior of imaging device. The front cover 70 is disposed on a portion of the front end face of imaging device 1 and covers the circuit board 100, which will be described later.

[0043] like Figure 2As shown, the imaging device 1 includes an imaging unit 20 for forming a toner image on a recording material P, a feeding unit 30 for feeding the recording material P, a fixing unit 9 for fixing the toner image formed by the imaging unit 20 onto the recording material P, and a sheet discharge roller pair 10. The imaging unit 20, feeding unit 30, fixing unit 9, and sheet discharge roller pair 10 are disposed in the support frame body 78.

[0044] Imaging unit 20 includes exposure unit 50, electrophotographic processing unit 40, and transfer unit 7. Transfer unit 7 includes transfer roller 7a, which serves as a transfer section for transferring the toner image carried on photosensitive drum 11 of processing unit 40 onto recording material P. Processing unit 40 includes photosensitive drum 11 as an image carrier, charging roller 17 as a charging unit, static removal device 13 as a static removal unit, developing roller 12 as a developing unit, supply roller 8, developing blade 19 as a limiting unit, and developing container 18 for storing toner. In processing unit 40, which is a cartridge, photosensitive drum 11, charging roller 17, static removal device 13, developing roller 12, supply roller 8, developing blade 19, and developing container 18 are supported by support unit 41, and support unit 41 is detachably provided relative to support frame body 78.

[0045] The photosensitive drum 11 is a photosensitive component formed into a cylindrical shape. In this exemplary embodiment, the photosensitive drum 11 has a photosensitive layer formed on an aluminum drum-shaped substrate by a negatively charged organic photosensitive component. The photosensitive drum 11 is driven by a motor (not shown) to rotate at a predetermined processing speed in a predetermined direction (the direction of arrow R).

[0046] The charging roller 17 contacts the photosensitive drum 11 with a predetermined pressure contact force. In response to the charging voltage applied by the circuit board 100, a discharge is generated between the charging roller and the photosensitive drum 11 to uniformly charge the surface of the photosensitive drum 11 to a predetermined potential.

[0047] The static eliminator 13 is disposed downstream of the transfer roller 7a and upstream of the charging roller 17 in the rotational direction of the photosensitive drum 11. In order to generate a stable discharge between the charging roller 17 and the photosensitive drum 11, the static eliminator 13 removes static electricity from the surface potential of the photosensitive drum 11 before charging, based on the static eliminator voltage applied by the circuit board 100.

[0048] The exposure unit 50 scans and exposes the surface of the photosensitive drum 11 by irradiating it with a laser beam corresponding to image information input from an external device. Through this exposure, an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image information is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 11.

[0049] The developing roller 12 is rotatably supported by the developing container 18. The developing container 18 stores developer, which includes toner and carrier. The developing roller 12 is positioned in the opening of the developing container 18 facing the photosensitive drum 11. The supply roller 8 contacts the developing roller 12. The supply roller 8 rotatably abuts against the developing roller 12 and is rotatably supported by the developing container 18 while carrying toner, so as to supply toner from the developing container 18 to the developing roller 12. A toner supply voltage is applied to the supply roller 8 via a circuit board 100. The toner is applied to the surface of the developing roller 12 by the supply roller 8 with the applied toner supply voltage. Note that the supply roller 8 is not necessary, as long as it can adequately supply toner to the developing roller 12.

[0050] The processing unit 40 uses a contact development method as the development method. That is, the toner carried on the developing roller 12 contacts the photosensitive drum 11 at the developing section (developing area) where the photosensitive drum 11 and the developing roller 12 face each other. A developing voltage is applied to the developing roller 12 via the circuit board 100. Under the developing voltage, the toner carried on the developing roller 12 is transferred from the developing roller 12 to the surface of the photosensitive drum 11 according to the potential distribution on the surface of the photosensitive drum, thereby developing an electrostatic latent image into a toner image.

[0051] In the opening of the developing container 18, a developing blade 19 is arranged with a predetermined gap between it and the surface of the developing roller 12. A developing blade voltage is applied to the developing blade 19 via the circuit board 100 to limit the amount of toner carried on the developing roller 12, i.e., the thickness of the toner. As the developing roller 12 rotates, the toner supplied to the developing roller 12 by the supply roller 8 passes through the portion facing the developing blade 19, causing the toner to be thinned to a uniform thickness on the surface of the developing roller 12.

[0052] The fixing unit 9 heats and melts the toner on the recording material and applies pressure to fix the image. The fixing unit 9 includes a heating roller 9a with a built-in fixing heater 9c and a pressure roller 9b that is in pressure contact with the heating roller 9a.

[0053] Next, the imaging operation of imaging device 1 will be described. When an imaging command is input to imaging device 1, imaging processing of imaging unit 20 begins based on image information input from an external device (not shown) connected to imaging device 1.

[0054] Exposure unit 50 illuminates photosensitive drum 11 with a laser based on input image information. Although not shown, exposure unit 50 includes a laser oscillator for outputting a laser beam, a multifaceted mirror and lens for illuminating photosensitive drum 11 with the laser beam, a scanner motor for rotating the multifaceted mirror, and a housing for housing and integrally supporting these components.

[0055] The photosensitive drum 11 is charged by the charging roller 17 and irradiated by the exposure unit 50 with a laser, thereby forming an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 11. Subsequently, the electrostatic latent image is developed by the developing roller 12, which rotates while carrying the toner image, and a toner image is formed on the photosensitive drum 11.

[0056] The feeding unit 30 includes a sheet cassette 4 for loading recording material P, 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 sheet cassette 4. The recording material P fed by the pickup roller 3 is separated sheet by sheet by sheet by the feed roller 5a and the separation roller 5b and conveyed to the transfer roller pair 5c. Then, the recording material P is conveyed by the transfer roller pair 5c toward the transfer clamping section N1 formed by the transfer roller 7a and the photosensitive drum 11.

[0057] A transfer voltage is applied to the transfer roller 7a via the circuit board 100, and the toner image carried on the photosensitive drum 11 is transferred onto the recording material P conveyed by the transfer roller pair 5c. The recording material P with the transferred toner image is conveyed to the fixing unit 9, where the toner image is heated and pressurized as it passes through the fixing clamping section N2 between the heating roller 9a and the pressure roller 9b of the fixing unit 9. As a result, the toner is melted and then fixed, thereby fixing the toner image onto the recording material P. The recording material P that has passed through the fixing unit 9 is discharged from the discharge port 15 in the discharge direction (Y direction) by the sheet discharge roller pair 10 and stacked on the sheet discharge tray 14.

[0058] When imaging occurs on both sides of the recording material P, the sheet discharge roller pair 10 guides the recording material P, on which the image is formed on the first surface, to the double-sided transport path 16 by folding it back. The recording material P, guided to the double-sided transport path 16, is then conveyed again toward the transfer roller 7a via the transport path 25 by the double-sided transport roller pair 5d. After imaging on the second surface of the recording material P by the transfer roller 7a, the recording material P is discharged outside the equipment by the sheet discharge roller pair 10. After the toner image is transferred onto the recording material P, the toner remaining on the photosensitive drum 11 is cleaned by a cleaning unit (not shown).

[0059] like Figure 2 As shown, the imaging device 1 includes a circuit board 100. The circuit board 100 has a wiring board 101 made of an insulator, on which, for example, soldered electrical components 111 and 121 are mounted. Conductor wiring is provided on or inside the wiring board 100, and multiple electrical components 111 and 121 are electrically connected. As will be described in detail later, the circuit board 100 has the function of, for example, converting alternating current supplied to the imaging device 1 from an external power source into direct current or converting the input voltage to obtain a predetermined voltage value required for imaging processing.

[0060] The circuit board 100 is disposed in the gap formed between the front cover 70 and the exposure unit 50 along the discharge direction, and the surface of the wiring board 101 on which the electrical components 111 and 121 are mounted faces the inside of the support frame body 78. The circuit board 100 is arranged such that the surface of the wiring board 101 on which the electrical components 111 and 121 are mounted intersects the discharge direction (Y direction).

[0061] circuit board

[0062] Reference Figure 3 Describe the layout of circuit board 100. Figure 3 This is a diagram used to illustrate the arrangement of circuit board 100. However, compared with the above... Figure 1 different, Figure 3 Parts of the front cover 70, outer cover 71, sheet discharge tray 14, etc. are not shown.

[0063] like Figure 3 As shown, the support frame body 78 includes a pair of side plate frames 72 and a left plate frame 73 that face each other and are generally parallel to each other. The right plate frames 72 and the left plate frames 73 stand upright from both ends of the base frame 74, which is mounted on the platform, in a width direction (direction of the photosensitive drum rotation axis) that intersects both the vertical direction and the recording material P discharge direction. Although not shown, multiple metal plate struts can be bridged between the right plate frames 72 and the left plate frames 73 to increase the rigidity of the support frame body 78.

[0064] In this exemplary embodiment, the circuit board 100 is arranged on the front side, bridging the right side plate frame 72 and the left side plate frame 73 of the support frame body 78. The distal ends of the right side plate frame 72 and the left side plate frame 73 are bent outward in the Y direction to form bends 72a and 73a. The bend 72a bends towards the positive side in the X direction to be substantially parallel to the XZ plane, and the bend 73a bends towards the negative side in the X-axis direction to be substantially parallel to the XZ plane. By bending the two side plate frames 72 and 73 outward in this way, the circuit board 100 can be disposed on the right side plate frame 72 and the left side plate frame 73 by means of the bends 72a and 73a. The circuit board 100 is configured such that its board surface is substantially parallel to the XZ plane.

[0065] The processing unit 40, exposure unit 50, drive motor 60, etc., are positioned relative to the circuit board 100 at the rear of the support frame body 78. The drive motor 60 is, for example, a drive source for driving the photosensitive drum 11, charging roller 17, developing roller 12, supply roller 8, etc., of the processing unit 40, and multiple drive motors can be provided. Figure 3 Only one drive motor is shown in the image.

[0066] Next, we will refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5Describe the structure and function of circuit board 100. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the circuit board 100 as viewed from the rear. Figure 5 This is a block diagram used to illustrate the function of circuit board 100.

[0067] like Figure 4 As shown, the circuit board 100, which serves as a voltage control board, includes: a low-voltage power supply unit 110, which draws power from an external power source (see Figure 110). Figure 5 The system receives AC voltage and converts it into DC voltage; and a high-voltage power supply unit 120 generates the high voltage required for imaging and supplies it to each operating unit. The low-voltage power supply unit 110 includes, as electrical components 111, such as a low-voltage power transformer 112, an electrolytic capacitor 114, a power input unit 115, etc.

[0068] The low-voltage power supply unit 110 converts the AC voltage input from the external power supply unit 115 into a stable DC voltage via a rectifier and smoothing circuit including an electrolytic capacitor 114. Then, switching elements such as transistors convert the DC voltage into a high-frequency AC voltage and output the high-frequency AC voltage to the low-voltage power transformer 112. The low-voltage power transformer 112 converts the input high-frequency AC voltage into an AC voltage (output voltage) with the desired voltage value. The low-voltage power supply unit 110 again converts the AC voltage into a DC voltage and outputs the obtained DC voltage to the high-voltage power supply unit 120, the exposure unit 50, etc. The low-voltage power supply unit 110 is equipped with a heat sink 113 made of aluminum or iron to dissipate heat generated from each circuit component.

[0069] The high-voltage power supply unit 120 converts the voltage (e.g., 24V) supplied from the low-voltage power supply unit 110 into the high voltage required for imaging processing (e.g., charging, developing, transferring, etc.). The high-voltage power supply unit 120 includes, for example, a charging transformer 122, a developing transformer 123, a transferring transformer 124, a de-energizing transformer 125, and a developing blade transformer 126 as electrical components 121. The voltage supplied from the low-voltage power supply unit 110 is converted into a charging voltage by the charging transformer 122, a developing voltage by the developing transformer 123, a transferring voltage by the transferring transformer 124, a de-energizing voltage by the de-energizing transformer 125, and a developing blade voltage by the developing blade transformer 126. Then, as... Figure 5 As shown, the high-voltage power supply unit 120 supplies the converted voltages to various operating units that operate according to the voltage supply, such as the charging roller 17, developing roller 12, transfer roller 7a, static eliminator 13, developing blade 19, etc.

[0070] In the case of this exemplary embodiment, such as Figure 4As shown, circuit contact section 300 is provided on circuit board 100 to apply the converted voltage to each of the aforementioned operating units. Circuit contact section 300 is formed of a conductor such as aluminum and soldered to circuit board 100. Circuit contact section 300 has individual plate contacts such as charging plate contact 301, developing plate contact 303, transfer plate contact 305, current-removing plate contact 307, and doctor blade contact 309. The output current of charging transformer 122 flows through charging plate contact 301, and the output current of developing transformer 123 flows through developing plate contact 303. The output current of transfer transformer 124 flows through transfer plate contact 305, the output current of current-removing transformer 125 flows through current-removing plate contact 307, and the output current of developing doctor blade transformer 126 flows through doctor blade contact 309.

[0071] like Figure 5 As shown, the low-voltage power supply unit 110 supplies voltage (e.g., 3.3V or 5V) not only to the high-voltage power supply unit 120 but also to the exposure unit 50, drive motor 60, engine controller 130, and video controller 140. The engine controller 130 acts as the main controller, controlling the entire operation of the imaging device 1. Although not shown, the engine controller 130 includes a central processing unit (CPU), random access memory (RAM) for calculating or temporarily storing data required to control the imaging device 1, read-only memory (ROM) for storing programs or various types of data for controlling the imaging device 1, etc. The video controller 140 communicates with external devices to receive print data and notifies the engine controller 130 of the analysis results of the print data. The engine controller 130 can be mounted on a different board than the circuit board 100, or it can be mounted on the same board.

[0072] In this exemplary embodiment, a configuration is described where the low-voltage power supply unit 110 and the high-voltage power supply unit 120 are disposed on the same board (circuit board 100), but the invention is not limited thereto. These two power supply units may also be disposed on other boards. Both the board on which the low-voltage power supply unit 110 is mounted and the board on which the high-voltage power supply unit 120 is mounted can be disposed on the front side of the imaging device 1. Alternatively, only the board of the high-voltage power supply unit 120 may be disposed on the front side, and the board of the low-voltage power supply unit 110 may be disposed in other locations such as the side surface.

[0073] Location of processing unit

[0074] Next, we will refer to Figures 6A to 9 Describe the positioning structure of the processing unit 40. Figure 6A This is a perspective view showing the rear side of the imaging device 1 with the rear cover 701 closed. Figure 6B This is a perspective view showing the rear side of the imaging device 1 with the rear cover 701 open. Figure 7This is a perspective view showing the processing unit 40 before installation. Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the processing unit 40 after installation. Figure 9 This is a side view showing the processing unit 40 after installation.

[0075] like Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown. The rear cover 701 is closable and can be installed on the rear side of the imaging device 1. When the rear cover 701 is in the open state, the processing unit 40 can be installed and removed.

[0076] like Figure 7 As shown, the processing unit 40 is mounted to the support frame body 78 along the mounting direction (Y direction) from rear to front. A left positioning protrusion 21L and a left rotation limiting protrusion 22L are provided on the left surface of the processing unit 40. Similarly, a right positioning protrusion 22R and a right rotation limiting protrusion 22R are provided on the right surface of the processing unit 40 (see description later). Figure 17 In this exemplary embodiment, the left rotation limiting protrusion 22L (right rotation limiting protrusion 22R) is disposed downstream of the left positioning protrusion 21L (right positioning protrusion 21R) along the installation direction.

[0077] When the processing unit 40 is inserted into the support frame body 78, the processing unit 40 is pushed from the rear side to the front side by the pushing force of the pushing member (not shown), thereby being pulled into the support frame body 78. Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the processing unit 40 is pulled into the support frame body 78 until the left positioning protrusion 21L and the left rotation limiting protrusion 22L engage with the left positioning portion 81L and the left rotation limiting portion 82L of the left side plate frame 73, respectively. At this time, although not shown, the right positioning protrusion and the right rotation limiting protrusion of the processing unit 40 engage with the right positioning portion and the right rotation limiting portion of the right side plate frame 72, respectively. Thus, the processing unit 40 is positioned at a predetermined location in the support frame body 78.

[0078] like Figure 9 As shown, the left positioning part 81L has three surfaces: a first surface 81La, a second surface 81Lb, and a third surface 81Lc, and the left rotation limiting part 82L has two surfaces: a first limiting surface 82La and a second limiting surface 82Lb. The right positioning part and the right rotation limiting part (not shown) have the same structure. In this exemplary embodiment, the center of the left positioning protrusion 21L and the center of the left rotation limiting protrusion 22L are at the same height in the Z direction, but they are not necessarily at the same height.

[0079] Contact components of the processing unit

[0080] In this exemplary embodiment, as described above, in the processing unit 40, voltage is supplied to each of the operating units, including the charging roller 17, the developing roller 12, the transfer roller 7a, the static eliminator 13, and the developing blade 19, via the high-voltage power supply unit 120 of the circuit board 100. Therefore, the processing unit 40 is provided with contact members for supplying voltage to each operating unit.

[0081] Reference Figure 2 Simultaneous reference Figures 10 to 12 The contact components of the processing unit 40 are described. Figure 10 This is a perspective view showing the charging contacts and de-energizing contacts of the processing unit 40. Figure 11 This is a perspective view showing the developing contacts and scraper contacts of the processing unit 40. Figure 12 This is a perspective view showing the contact components of the processing unit 40.

[0082] like Figure 10 As shown, a charging contact 302a (operation unit contact, first contact) capable of supplying charging voltage to the charging roller 17 is exposed on the upper surface of the processing unit 40 (specifically, the support unit 41). On the upper surface of the processing unit 40, a de-energizing contact 308a (operation unit contact) capable of supplying de-energizing voltage to the de-energizing device 13 is exposed side-by-side with the charging contact 302a in the width direction.

[0083] On the other hand, such as Figure 11 As shown, on the lower surface of the processing unit 40 (specifically, the support unit 41), the developing contact 304a (operation unit contact, second contact) capable of supplying developing voltage to the developing roller 12 is exposed. On the lower surface of the processing unit 40, the doctor blade contact 310a (operation unit contact) capable of supplying developing blade voltage to the developing blade 19 and toner supply voltage to the supply roller 8 is exposed side by side with the developing contact 304a in the discharge direction (Y direction).

[0084] like Figure 12 As shown, the processing unit 40 includes a charging contact member 302 having a charging contact 302a and an eliminating contact member 308 having an eliminating contact 308a as contact members. The charging contact member 302 and the eliminating contact member 308 are formed into a plate shape using a metallic material such as conductive stainless steel, and voltage is supplied through the charging contact 302a and the eliminating contact 308a exposed on the upper surface of the processing unit 40. The side of the eliminating contact member 308 opposite to the eliminating contact 308a is connected to the eliminating device 13, and the voltage supplied to the eliminating contact member 308 is applied to the eliminating device 13.

[0085] On the other hand, the side of the charging contact member 302 opposite to the charging contact 302a is connected to the charging push member 319, the charging roller bearing 318, and the charging roller shaft 317, and the voltage supplied to the charging contact member 302 is applied to the charging roller 17. The charging roller shaft 317 of the charging roller 17 is made of a metal material such as conductive stainless steel. The charging roller bearing 318, which rotatably supports the charging roller shaft 317, is formed of a conductive resin member. Furthermore, the charging push member 319 is a push member formed of, for example, a conductive compression spring, and pushes the charging roller bearing 318 against the charging roller shaft 317. Therefore, the voltage supplied to the charging contact member 302 is applied to the charging roller 17 via the charging push member 319, the charging roller bearing 318, and the charging roller shaft 317.

[0086] Furthermore, the processing unit 40 includes a developing contact member 304 having a developing contact 304a and a scraper contact member 310 having a scraper contact 310a as contact members. The developing contact member 304 and the scraper contact member 310 are made of conductive resin.

[0087] Voltage is supplied to the developing contact member 304 via the developing contact 304a exposed on the lower surface of the processing unit 40. The end of the developing contact member 304 opposite to the developing contact 304a serves as a bearing for the developing roller shaft 320, which is made of a metallic material such as conductive stainless steel, and rotatably holds the developing roller 12. Therefore, the voltage supplied to the developing contact member 304 is applied to the developing roller 12 via the developing roller shaft 320.

[0088] The doctor blade contact member 310 branches in the middle, one branch serving as a bearing for the supply roller shaft 321, which is made of a metallic material (e.g., conductive stainless steel), and rotatably holding the supply roller 8. The other branch is connected to the developing doctor blade 19. Therefore, the voltage supplied to the doctor blade contact member 310 is supplied to the supply roller 8 via the supply roller shaft 321, and also to the developing doctor blade 19.

[0089] Next, we will refer to Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 12 as well as Figures 13 to 18 The description includes each contact of the contact component of the processing unit 40 and each contact of the circuit contact section 300 (see...). Figure 4 High-voltage contact units that are electrically connected.

[0090] like Figure 13As shown, the high-voltage contact unit 350 of this exemplary embodiment includes a plate contact unit 327 as a first holding unit and a first cable holding unit 400, a second cable holding unit 410, and a third cable holding unit 420 as second holding units. The first cable holding unit 400, the second cable holding unit 410, and the third cable holding unit 420 are configured to be separate from the plate contact unit 327. The high-voltage contact unit 350 also includes high-voltage cables 312a to 312e electrically connecting the plate contact unit 327 and each of the cable holding units 400, 410, and 420. The high-voltage cables 312a to 312e are conductive signal lines formed of, for example, metal wire members, and are formed to have a wire diameter that bends under load, for example, a diameter of "more than 0.5 mm and less than 0.7 mm". In this disclosure, the high-voltage cable is not limited to a single signal line, but also includes a bundle consisting of multiple signal lines.

[0091] Board contact unit

[0092] The board contact unit 327 enables the board contacts (301, 303, 305, 307, 309) of the circuit board 100 and the plurality of high-voltage cables 312a to 312e to conduct electricity. For this purpose, the board contact unit 327 includes: a plurality of retaining portions 314a to 314e, each retaining a first end of one of the plurality of high-voltage cables 312a to 312e; and a support plate 313 supporting the retaining portions 314a to 314e. The retaining portions 314a to 314e are integrally formed with the support plate 313. Because the board contact unit 327 retains the first ends of the high-voltage cables 312a to 312e to which high voltage is applied, the board contact unit is formed of a flame-retardant material.

[0093] In this exemplary embodiment, the first holding portion 314a holds the first end 312aP of the charging high-voltage cable 312a, which is electrically connected to the charging contact 302a of the charging roller 17 to supply charging voltage. The second holding portion 314b holds the first end 312bP of the developing high-voltage cable 312b, which is electrically connected to the developing contact 304a of the developing roller 12 to supply developing voltage. The third holding portion 314c holds the transfer contact 306a (operating unit contact, see below) electrically connected to the transfer roller 7a. Figure 16 The first end 312cP of the high-voltage transfer cable 312c, which supplies transfer voltage, is held by a fourth holding part 314d. The first end 312dP of the high-voltage removal cable 312d, which is electrically connected to the removal contact 308a of the removal device 13 to supply removal voltage, is held by a fifth holding part 315e. The first end 312eP of the high-voltage doctor blade cable 312e, which is electrically connected to the doctor blade contact 310a of the developing doctor blade 19 to supply doctor blade voltage, is held by a fifth holding part 315e.

[0094] On the other hand, the first cable holding unit 400 holds the second end 312cQ of the transfer high-voltage cable 312c. The second cable holding unit 410 holds the second end 312aQ of the charging high-voltage cable 312a and the second end 312dQ of the de-energizing high-voltage cable 312d. The third cable holding unit 420 holds the second end 312bQ of the developing high-voltage cable 312b and the second end 312eQ of the doctor blade high-voltage cable 312e. These cable holding units 400, 410 and 420 are mainly formed of flame-retardant components.

[0095] In the high-voltage contact unit 350 of this exemplary embodiment, the first cable holding unit 400, the second cable holding unit 410, and the third cable holding unit 420 are provided separately from the plate contact unit 327. That is, unlike the holding portions 314a to 314e, the first cable holding unit 400, the second cable holding unit 410, and the third cable holding unit 420 are not integrally formed with the support plate 313 of the plate contact unit 327. As described above, the first end (first end portion) of each high-voltage cable (312a to 312e), which is a wire, is held by the support plate 313 via the holding portion (314a to 314e), and the second end (second end portion) is held by any one of the first cable holding unit 400, the second cable holding unit 410, and the third cable holding unit 420. The central portion other than the first and second ends is not held by the support plate 313 or any one of the first cable holding unit 400, the second cable holding unit 410, and the third cable holding unit 420. That is, the central portion of each high-voltage cable (312a to 312e) is suspended in the air. In this exemplary embodiment, the first end (first end) of the high-voltage cable refers to the first end side from the position where it contacts the support plate 313 of the plate contact unit 327, and the second end (second end) of the high-voltage cable refers to the second end side from the position where it contacts any one of the first cable holding unit 400, the second cable holding unit 410, and the third cable holding unit 420.

[0096] like Figure 14As shown, each retaining portion (314a to 314e) has a torsion coil spring (315a to 315e) serving as a plate pressing portion. In this exemplary embodiment, the torsion coil spring (315a to 315e) is integrally formed with the high-voltage cable (312a to 312e). The ends of the torsion coil springs (315a to 315e) on the side opposite to the second ends (312aQ, 312bQ, 312cQ, 312dQ, 312eQ) contact respective plate contacts (301, 303, 305, 307, 309) serving as voltage control plate contacts, to form plate contact portions (330a to 330e) that enable the circuit board 100 and the high-voltage cable (312a to 312e) to conduct to each other. That is, the plate contacts (330a to 330e), which serve as the first contact portions, are electrically connected to the first ends (312aP, 312bP, 312cP, 312dP, 312eP) of the high-voltage cables (312a to 312e). The torsion coil springs (315a to 315e) may be formed separately from the high-voltage cables 312a to 312e. For example, the first end of the torsion coil springs (315a to 315e) may be connected to the high-voltage cables (312a to 312e), and the second end may contact each plate contact (301, 303, 305, 307, 309) of the circuit board 100. In this case, a board contact portion (330a to 330e) is formed on the second end side of the torsion coil spring (315a to 315e) for contacting the respective board contacts (301, 303, 305, 307, 309) to conduct the circuit board 100 and the high voltage cable (312a to 312e).

[0097] Torsion coil springs (315a to 315e) push the plate contacts (330a to 330e) toward the respective plate contacts (301, 303, 305, 307, 309). Specifically, the first torsion coil spring 315a pushes the first plate contact 330a toward the charging plate contact 301, the second torsion coil spring 315b pushes the second plate contact 330b toward the developing plate contact 303, the third torsion coil spring 315c pushes the third plate contact 330c toward the transfer plate contact 305, the fourth torsion coil spring 315d pushes the fourth plate contact 330d toward the static elimination plate contact 307, and the fifth torsion coil spring 315e pushes the fifth plate contact 330e toward the scraper plate contact 309.

[0098] The plate contacts (330a to 330e) enter the slit 311 of the circuit board 100 and press the charging plate contact 301, developing plate contact 303, transfer plate contact 305, static elimination plate contact 307, and scraper plate contact 309 respectively with a predetermined pushing force. Therefore, the high-voltage cables (312a to 312e) connected to the first end of the torsion coil springs (315a to 315e) can be reliably electrically connected to each other with the respective plate contacts (301, 303, 305, 307, 309).

[0099] like Figure 15 As shown, the fourth retaining portion 314d is provided with a protrusion 328 and a claw 329. The protrusion 328 retains the coil portion of the fourth torsion coil spring 315d. To prevent the coil portion from disengaging from the protrusion 328 under the pushing force of the fourth torsion coil spring 315d, the claw 329 is provided as a stop. The fourth plate contact portion 330d formed in the fourth torsion coil spring 315d is locked to the claw 329. The other retaining portions (314a, 314b, 314c, 314e) have the same structure as the fourth retaining portion 314d, so their description is omitted here.

[0100] Back Figure 14 The board contact unit 327 includes an alignment portion 323, which positions the board contact unit 327 relative to the circuit board 100 when the board contact portions (330a to 330e) are in contact with the board contacts (301, 303, 305, 307, 309). When the alignment portion 323 engages with the engagement hole 324 provided in the circuit board 100, the board contact unit 327 is positioned relative to the circuit board 100 at a position where the board contact portions (330a to 330e) are in contact with the board contacts (301, 303, 305, 307, 309) of the circuit board 100.

[0101] Cable holding unit

[0102] Next, we will refer to Figure 16 Describe the first cable holding unit 400. For example... Figure 16As shown, a first cable holding unit 400 holds the second end of a high-voltage transfer cable 312c and is positioned above a transfer roller 7a. The transfer roller 7a side of the first cable holding unit 400 has a transfer contact plate 401 connected to the high-voltage transfer cable 312c. The transfer contact plate 401 is a metal plate and contacts the transfer contact 306a of the transfer roller 7a. When the transfer contact plate 401 and the transfer contact 306a are in contact with each other, the high-voltage transfer cable 312c and the transfer roller 7a are electrically connected to each other. The transfer contact 306a can be, for example, a leaf spring in which the metal plate is bent to be elastic and elastically deformed to contact the transfer contact plate 401, thereby reliably contacting the transfer contact plate 401. Note that the transfer contact 306a can be provided on the rear cover 701 and can move to a contact position that contacts the transfer roller 7a and a separation position that is away from the transfer roller 7a depending on the opening and closing of the rear cover 701.

[0103] Next, we will refer to Figure 13 , Figure 17 and Figure 18 The second cable holding unit 410 and the third cable holding unit 420 are described. For example... Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown, the second cable holding unit 410 holds the charging high-voltage cable 312a and the de-energizing high-voltage cable 312d. The second cable holding unit 410 includes: a charging contact portion 411 (second contact portion) that contacts the charging contact 302a of the processing unit 40 and is electrically connected to the second end 312aQ of the charging high-voltage cable 312a; and a charging pushing portion 413 (second pushing portion) that pushes the charging contact portion 411 toward the charging contact 302a. Furthermore, the second cable holding unit 410 includes: a de-energizing contact portion 412 that contacts the de-energizing contact 308a of the processing unit 40 and is electrically connected to the second end 312dQ of the de-energizing high-voltage cable 312d; and a de-energizing pushing portion 414 that pushes the de-energizing contact portion 412 toward the de-energizing contact 308b.

[0104] On the other hand, the third cable holding unit 420 holds the developing high-voltage cable 312b and the doctor blade high-voltage cable 312e. The third cable holding unit 420 includes: a developing contact portion 422, which contacts the developing contact 304a of the processing unit 40 and is electrically connected to the second end 312bQ of the developing high-voltage cable 312b; and a developing pushing portion 424, which pushes the developing contact portion 422 toward the developing contact 304a. The third cable holding unit 420 also includes: a doctor blade contact portion 421, which contacts the doctor blade contact 310a of the processing unit 40 and is electrically connected to the second end 312eQ of the doctor blade high-voltage cable 312e; and a doctor blade pushing portion 423, which pushes the doctor blade contact portion 421 toward the doctor blade contact 310a.

[0105] The charging pusher 413, the de-energizing pusher 414, the developing pusher 424, and the doctor blade pusher 423 are formed by compression springs. Arc-shaped charging contacts 411, de-energizing contacts 412, developing contacts 422, and doctor blade contacts 421 are provided at the ends of the compression springs. Note that the charging pusher 413, de-energizing pusher 414, developing pusher 424, and doctor blade pusher 423, as well as the charging contacts 411, de-energizing contacts 412, developing contacts 422, and doctor blade contacts 421, can be formed separately or integrally. Furthermore, the charging pusher 413, de-energizing pusher 414, developing pusher 424, and doctor blade pusher 423 are not limited to compression springs, but can have any shape or material, as long as they are elastic and conductive.

[0106] The second cable holding unit 410 is configured to pressurize the charging contacts 302a and the de-energizing contacts 308a of the processing unit 40 from above (positive side in the Z direction) via the charging pusher 413 and the de-energizing pusher 414. Conversely, the third cable holding unit 420 is configured to pressurize the developing contacts 304a and the scraper contacts 310a of the processing unit 40 from below (negative side in the Z direction) via the developing pusher 424 and the scraper pusher 423. The second cable holding unit 410 and the third cable holding unit 420 pressurize the processing unit 40 at approximately opposite positions in the Z direction, with the same degree of pressure.

[0107] Processing unit 40 is detachably mounted relative to the support frame body 78 (see...) Figure 7 ),like Figure 17 As shown, the processing unit 40 includes a right positioning protrusion 21R for positioning relative to the support frame body 78 and a right rotation limiting protrusion 22R for limiting rotation. In the mounting direction (Y direction) of the processing unit 40, the right positioning protrusion 21R is located upstream of the center, and the right rotation limiting protrusion 22R is located downstream of the center. These approximately relative positions are located between the right positioning protrusion 21R and the right rotation limiting protrusion 22R in the Y direction. Figure 18 As shown, in the X direction, the position where the second cable holding unit 410 applies pressure from the upper side (positive side in the Z direction) and the position where the third cable holding unit 420 applies pressure from the lower side (negative side in the Z direction) are also approximately opposite to each other.

[0108] In this way, the pressure applied to the processing unit 40 is effective, balancing the forces from a direction approximately orthogonal to the loading and unloading direction. Therefore, when installing and removing the processing unit 40, the frictional resistance generated by the right positioning protrusion 21R and the right rotation limiting protrusion 22R sliding on the right positioning portion and the right rotation limiting portion (not shown) of the right side plate frame 72 is reduced. Furthermore, when installing and removing the processing unit 40, the frictional resistance generated by the left positioning protrusion 21L and the left rotation limiting protrusion 22L sliding on the left positioning portion 81L and the left rotation limiting portion 82L of the left side plate frame 73 (see...) is reduced. Figure 9 The frictional resistance generated by sliding on the surface. Therefore, the processing unit 40 can be easily installed onto and removed from the support frame body 78.

[0109] High voltage cable

[0110] Next, we will refer to Figure 19 High-voltage cables (312a to 312e) are described. Since the high-voltage cables (312 to 312e) used in this exemplary embodiment have the same configuration, the high-voltage cable 312b will be described below as a representative example.

[0111] like Figure 19 As shown, the developing high-voltage cable 312b is shaped within the support frame body 78 such that the cable bends at at least one location between the second holding portion 314b and the third cable holding unit 420 of the plate contact unit 327. In other words, the developing high-voltage cable 312b has two bends 322 located between the second holding portion 314b and the third cable holding unit 420. The bends 322 in the developing high-voltage cable 312b allow the second holding portion 314b and the third cable holding unit 420 to be connected with excess length.

[0112] The portion of the developing high-voltage cable 312b with the bend 322 is not held by any component (e.g., the second holding portion 314b or the third cable holding unit 420). Similarly, although not shown, the portion of the charging high-voltage cable 312a with the bend 322 is also not held by any component (e.g., the first holding portion 314a and the second cable holding unit 410). The portion of the transfer high-voltage cable 312c with the bend 322 is not held by any component (e.g., the third holding portion 314c or the second cable holding unit 410). The portion of the de-energizing high-voltage cable 312d with the bend 322 is not held by any component (e.g., the fourth holding portion 314d or the first cable holding unit 400). The portion of the scraper high-voltage cable 312e with the bend 322 is also not held by any component (e.g., the fifth holding portion 314e or the third cable holding unit 420).

[0113] The developing high-voltage cable 312b is held in the Z direction by the second holding part 314b from the positive side of the Y direction to the "A" position 325, preventing movement in the Z direction, and is held in the Z direction by the third cable holding unit 420 from the negative side of the Y direction to the "B" position 326, preventing movement in the Z direction. As shown in the figure, the length from the "A" position 325 to the "B" position 326 of the developing high-voltage cable 312b is "L1+L2+L3", and is longer than the length of the line segment Q connecting the "A" position 325 and the "B" position 326. Here, the "A" position 325 is the first position where the portion of the developing high-voltage cable 312b not held in the second holding part 314b is exposed from the second holding part 314b. On the other hand, the "B" position 326 is the second position where the portion of the developing high-voltage cable 312b not held in the third cable holding unit 420 is exposed from the third cable holding unit 420. In the developing high-voltage cable 312b, the portion located between "A" position 325 and "B" position 326 is defined as the central portion 500. As described above, the central portion 500 of the developing high-voltage cable 312b is longer than the line segment Q connecting "A" position 325 (i.e., the first position exposed from the second holding portion 314b) and "B" position 326 (i.e., the second position exposed from the third cable holding unit 420).

[0114] As described above, the central portion 500 does not connect the second holding portion 314b of the plate contact unit 327 and the third cable holding unit 420 in a straight line, but rather connects them via two bends 322. Note that the positions of the bends 322 formed in the central portion 500 can be any number of positions, as long as there are one or more positions. The bends 322 are not limited to a shape with an inflection point, but can have a curved shape, etc. Furthermore, the central portion 500 is not held by the plate contact unit 327 and the third cable holding unit 420, and is suspended in the air. Therefore, the central portion 500 is deformable.

[0115] Next, in reference Figure 14 and Figure 17 Simultaneous reference Figures 20A to 20C This section describes the connection implemented by the high-voltage contact unit 350 to ensure contact between each contact and the high-voltage developing cable 312b in the event that the relative position between the developing contact 304a and the developing plate contact 303 changes due to manufacturing errors. Hereinafter, as an example, the arrangement of the third cable holding unit 420 will be changed based on the second holding part 314b in response to a change in the arrangement of the processing unit 40 due to manufacturing errors.

[0116] Figure 20AThis illustration shows a scenario where the processing unit 40 is positioned correctly and the arrangement of the third cable holding unit 420 does not change from its reference position. In this case, no positional deviation occurs between the developing contact 304a and the developing plate contact 303. It is assumed that the distal position of the developing contact 422 in the Z direction is position "C1".

[0117] Figure 20B This illustrates a scenario where, due to a manufacturing error, the processing unit 40 is not positioned correctly, causing the developing contact 304a to shift negatively in the Z-direction, and the arrangement of the third cable holding unit 420 correspondingly changes from its reference position to a position shifted negatively in the Z-direction. In this case, because the developing contact 304a is shifted negatively in the Z-direction, the distal position of the developing contact 422 in the Z-direction is located at position "C2" below "C1". Therefore, the developing high-voltage cable 312b is pulled by the third cable holding unit 420 and deforms according to the additional length following the deformation of the third cable holding unit 420.

[0118] Figure 20C This illustration depicts a scenario where, due to a manufacturing error, the processing unit 40 is not positioned correctly, causing the developing contact 304a to shift positively in the Z direction, and the arrangement of the third cable holding unit 420 accordingly changes from a reference position to a position shifted positively in the Z direction. In this case, because the developing contact 304a is shifted positively in the Z direction, the developing contact portion 422 is located at position "C3" above "C1" at its distal end in the Z direction. Consequently, the developing high-voltage cable 312b is lifted by the third cable holding unit 420 and deforms along with the third cable holding unit 420 according to its additional length.

[0119] As described above, when the third cable holding unit 420 is positioned offset relative to the second holding portion 314b from a reference position, the developing high-voltage cable 312b deforms following the deformation of the third cable holding unit 420. Therefore, the second holding portion 314b and the third cable holding unit 420 can be installed without obstructing each other. Furthermore, the third cable holding unit 420 can be precisely installed near the processing unit 40 without being affected by the installation position of the second holding portion 314b. Therefore, the electrical connection implemented by the developing high-voltage cable 312b can be ensured, thereby enabling a stable contact structure capable of appropriately supplying voltage to the developing roller 12.

[0120] Even when the third cable holding unit 420 is set to be offset in the X or Y direction, the developing high voltage cable 312b will deform according to the additional length following the deformation of the third cable holding unit 420, thereby ensuring the electrical connection implemented by the developing high voltage cable 312b.

[0121] Note that the wire diameter of the high-voltage cable 312b is not limited to a diameter of "more than 0.5 mm and less than 0.7 mm", but can be any thickness that is deformed as described above according to the relative positional offset between the third cable holding unit 420 and the second holding part 314b.

[0122] As described above, in this exemplary embodiment, the high-voltage contact unit 350 is divided into a plate contact unit 327 and cable holding units (400, 410, 420), and both the plate contact unit 327 and the cable holding units hold only the two ends of the high-voltage cables (312a to 312e). In this case, since the amount of flame-retardant components used to form the high-voltage contact unit 350 can be reduced, the cost can be reduced. Furthermore, since the plate contacts and the operating unit contacts can be connected over a relatively short distance, the length of the high-voltage cables (312a to 312e) can be shortened, and the cost can be reduced. The high-voltage cables (312a to 312e) each have a curved shape and connect the plate contact unit 327 and the cable holding units (400, 410, 420) with an additional length. Therefore, even if the arrangement of the plate contact unit 327 and the cable holding units (400, 410, 420) changes due to manufacturing errors, the high-voltage cables (312a to 312e) will deform along with their arrangement. As a result, the electrical connection implemented by the high-voltage cables (312a to 312e) can be ensured, thereby enabling a stable contact structure that can appropriately supply voltage to the operating unit. As described above, in this exemplary embodiment, the influence of positional deviations between the separated plate contact unit 327 and the cable holding units (400, 410, 420) can be suppressed while minimizing costs, and the voltage required for imaging can be stably supplied without compromising contact position accuracy.

[0123] As described above, in this exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG6 and Figure 7 As shown, the operator accesses the interior of the imaging device 1 from the rear to perform maintenance work such as replacing the processing unit 40. In other words, since the operator cannot access the interior of the imaging device 1 from the front, even if only the two ends of the high-voltage cables (312a to 312e) are held and the central part 500 is exposed in a suspended state in the air, the operator can be prevented from touching the exposed high-voltage cables (312a to 312e).

[0124] Second exemplary embodiment

[0125] Next, in reference Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 Simultaneous reference Figures 21 to 24CA high-voltage contact unit according to a second exemplary embodiment is described. Note that the high-voltage contact unit of the second exemplary embodiment is the same as the high-voltage contact unit 350 of the first exemplary embodiment described above (see...). Figure 13 The difference lies in the construction of the plate contact unit 327A; the other constructions are similar. Therefore, in the following description, the same reference numerals are given to constructions identical to those in the first exemplary embodiment, and descriptions are simplified or omitted.

[0126] Figure 21 This is a perspective view showing the board contact unit 327A. (See attached image.) Figure 21 As shown, the board contact unit 327A includes: a plurality of retaining portions (354a to 354e) that respectively retain the first ends (312aP to 312eP) of a plurality of high-voltage cables (312a to 312e); and a support plate 313 that supports the retaining portions (354a to 354e). The retaining portions (354a to 354e) are integrally formed with the support plate 313.

[0127] In this exemplary embodiment, the first holding portion 354a holds the first end 312aP of the charging high-voltage cable 312a, which is electrically connected to the charging contact 302a of the charging roller 17 to supply charging voltage. The second holding portion 354b holds the first end 312bP of the developing high-voltage cable 312b, which is electrically connected to the developing contact 304a of the developing roller 12 to supply developing voltage. The third holding portion 354c holds the transfer contact 306a (see figure 1) electrically connected to the transfer roller 7a. Figure 16 The first end 312cP of the high-voltage transfer cable 312c, which supplies transfer voltage, is held by a fourth holding part 314d. The first end 312dP of the high-voltage removal cable 312d, which is electrically connected to the removal contact 308a of the removal device 13 to supply removal voltage, is held by a fifth holding part 315e. The first end 312eP of the high-voltage doctor blade cable 312e, which is electrically connected to the doctor blade contact 310a of the developing doctor blade 19 to supply doctor blade voltage, is held by a fifth holding part 315e.

[0128] like Figure 21 and Figure 22As shown, the retaining portions (354a to 354e) each include a compression spring (385a to 385e) serving as a first pressing portion. In this exemplary embodiment, the compression springs (385a to 385e) have a first end (385aR to 385eR) and a second end (385aS to 385eS) in the compression spring extension direction. The first end (385aR to 385eR) of the compression springs (385a to 385e) contacts the first end (312aP to 312eP) of the high-voltage cable (312a to 312e), and the second end (385aS to 385eS) of the compression springs (385a to 385e) contacts the respective board contacts (301, 303, 305, 307, 309) of the circuit board 100. In other words, the second end (385aS to 385eS) of the compression spring (385a to 385e) constitutes a board contact 380 that enables the circuit board 100 and the high-voltage cable (312a to 312e) to conduct to each other.

[0129] like Figure 22 As shown, the third retaining part 354c is provided with a protrusion 340, a claw 341, and a limiting rib 342. The protrusion 340 retains the coil portion of the compression spring 385c and holds the end of the transfer high-voltage cable 312c. The claw 341 locks the transfer high-voltage cable 312c and restricts the movement of the coil portion of the compression spring 385c in the direction in which the coil portion disengages from the protrusion 340. The limiting rib 342 restricts the movement of the transfer high-voltage cable 312c, so that the transfer high-voltage cable 312c will not disengage from the claw 341. The retaining parts (354a, 354b, 354c, 354e) other than the third retaining part 354c have the same structure as the third retaining part 354c, so their description is omitted here.

[0130] Compression springs (385a to 385e) contact each high-voltage cable (312a to 312e) in a compressed state, and push plate contact portions 380 toward each plate contact (301, 303, 305, 307, 309). Plate support portions 331 and mounting portions 332 are provided on support plate 313 so that compression springs (385a to 385e) contact the high-voltage cables (312a to 312e) and plate contacts (301, 303, 305, 307, 309) with a predetermined pressing force.

[0131] like Figure 23As shown, the distal end of the plate support portion 331, which serves as the first support portion, is formed in a hook shape. With the compression springs (385a to 385e) clamped between the support plate 313 and the circuit board 100 and compressed, it holds and supports the circuit board 100 from the positive side in the Y direction. On the other hand, the mounting portion 332 abuts against the surface of the circuit board 100 opposite to the surface locked by the plate support portion 331 and is fixed to the circuit board 100 by screws 333. Therefore, the compression springs (385a to 385e) reliably contact the high-voltage cables (312a to 312e) and the plate contacts (301, 303, 305, 307, 309) at both ends. The mounting portion 332 is positioned away from the plate support portion 331 in the Z direction, preventing the circuit board 100 from bending due to the pressure of the compression springs (385a to 385e).

[0132] Next, high-voltage cables (312a to 312e) will be described. In the following text, transfer high-voltage cable 312c will be described as a representative example. Figure 24A As shown, the transfer high-voltage cable 312c is configured in the support frame body to be bent at at least one location between the third holding portion 354c and the first cable holding unit 400. In other words, the transfer high-voltage cable 312c has a bend 322 (here, one location) between the third holding portion 354c and the first cable holding unit 400. The transfer high-voltage cable 312c has the bend 322 to connect the third holding portion 354c and the first cable holding unit 400 when additional length is present.

[0133] The high-voltage transfer cable 312c is held in the Y direction from the positive side in the X direction to the "D" position 335 by the third holding part 354c to prevent movement in the Y direction, and from the negative side in the Y direction to the "E" position 336 by the first cable holding unit 400 to prevent movement in the Z direction. As shown in the figure, the length from the "D" position 335 to the "E" position 336 of the high-voltage transfer cable 312c is "L4+L5", which is longer than the length of the line segment F connecting the "D" position 335 and the "E" position 336. The "D" position 335 is the first position where the portion of the high-voltage transfer cable 312c not held in the third holding part 354c is exposed from the third holding part 354c. On the other hand, the "E" position 336 is the second position where the portion of the high-voltage transfer cable 312c not held in the first cable holding unit 400 is exposed from the first cable holding unit 400. In the transfer high-voltage cable 312c, the portion between the "D" position 335 and the "E" position 336 is defined as the central portion 600. As described above, the central portion 600 of the transfer high-voltage cable 312c is longer than the line segment F connecting the "D" position 335 (the first position exposed from the third holding portion 354c) and the "E" position 336 (the second position exposed from the first cable holding unit 400). The transfer high-voltage cable 312c is formed to have a wire diameter that bends when subjected to load.

[0134] As described above, the central portion 600 does not connect the third holding portion 354c of the plate contact unit 327 and the first cable holding unit 400 in a straight line, but rather connects them via a bend 322. Note that the position of the bend 322 formed in the central portion 600 can be any number of positions, as long as there are one or more positions. The bend 322 is not limited to a shape with an inflection point, but can have a curved shape, etc. The central portion 600 is not held by the plate contact unit 327A and the first cable holding unit 400, and is in a state of suspension in the air. Therefore, the central portion 600 is deformable.

[0135] Next, the connection implemented by the high-voltage contact unit in the second exemplary embodiment, which ensures contact between each contact and the transfer high-voltage cable 312c when the relative position between the transfer contact 306a and the transfer plate contact 305 changes due to manufacturing errors, will be described. Hereinafter, as an example, the arrangement of the first cable holding unit 400 will be changed based on the third holding portion 354c in response to a change in the arrangement of the processing unit 40 due to manufacturing errors.

[0136] Figure 24AThis illustration shows a scenario where the processing unit 40 is positioned correctly, and the arrangement of the first cable holding unit 400 does not change from its reference position. In this case, no positional deviation occurs between the transfer contact 306a and the transfer plate contact 305. The distal position of the transfer contact plate 401 in the Z direction is assumed to be the "F1" position.

[0137] Figure 24B This illustration depicts a scenario where, due to a manufacturing error, the processing unit 40 is not positioned correctly, causing the transfer contact 306a to shift negatively in the Y direction, and the arrangement of the first cable holding unit 400 accordingly changes to a position shifted negatively in the Y direction from its reference position. In this case, because the transfer contact 306a shifts negatively in the Y direction, the distal position of the transfer contact plate 401 in the Y direction becomes position "F2" to the left of "F1". Consequently, the high-voltage transfer cable 312c is pulled by the first cable holding unit 400 and deforms along with the first cable holding unit 400 according to the additional length.

[0138] Figure 24C This illustration depicts a scenario where, due to a manufacturing error, the processing unit 40 is not positioned correctly, causing the transfer contact 306a to shift positively in the Y direction, and the arrangement of the first cable holding unit 400 correspondingly changes from a reference position to a position shifted positively in the Y direction. In this case, because the transfer contact 306a is shifted positively in the Y direction, the transfer contact plate 401 is located at position "F3" to the right of "F1" at its far end in the Y direction. Consequently, the high-voltage cable 312c is pressed by the first cable holding unit 400 and deforms along with the first cable holding unit 400 according to its additional length.

[0139] As described above, when the first cable holding unit 400 is positioned offset relative to the third holding portion 354c from a reference position, the transfer high-voltage cable 312c deforms following the deformation of the first cable holding unit 400. Therefore, the third holding portion 354c and the first cable holding unit 400 can be installed without interfering with each other. Furthermore, the first cable holding unit 400 can be precisely installed near the processing unit 40 without being affected by the installation position of the third holding portion 354c. Therefore, the electrical connection implemented by the transfer high-voltage cable 312c can be ensured, thereby enabling a stable contact structure that can appropriately supply voltage to the transfer roller 7a.

[0140] Other embodiments

[0141] While the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of the following claims should be given the broadest interpretation to cover all variations and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. An imaging apparatus configured to image on a recording material, the imaging apparatus comprising: An image-carrying component is configured to rotate around a rotation axis and carry a toner image; An exposure unit is configured to expose the surface of an image-carrying component; An operating unit is configured to operate in response to a voltage supply, and the operating unit includes operating unit contacts; A voltage control board configured to control the voltage supplied from an external power source to apply voltage to the operating unit, the voltage control board including voltage control board contacts; The wires connect the voltage control board and the operating unit electrically. The first holding unit is configured to hold the first end of the wire that is electrically connected to the contacts of the voltage control board; and The second holding unit is configured to be separate from the first holding unit, and the second holding unit is configured to hold the second end of the wire electrically connected to the operating unit contacts. In this configuration, the wires do not connect the first holding unit and the second holding unit in a straight line. At least a portion of the wire between the first holding unit and the second holding unit is not held by the first holding unit and the second holding unit, and In this case, the exposure unit is positioned between the voltage control board and the operation unit in an intersecting direction that intersects both the rotation axis and the vertical direction.

2. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein, The length of the wire portion between the first holding unit and the second holding unit is longer than the line segment that directly connects the first holding unit and the second holding unit.

3. The imaging device according to claim 2, wherein, The wire portion between the first holding unit and the second holding unit is not held by the first holding unit and the second holding unit and is suspended in the air.

4. The imaging device according to claim 2, wherein, The wire portion between the first holding unit and the second holding unit is deformable.

5. The imaging device according to claim 2, wherein, The wire portion between the first holding unit and the second holding unit includes a bent section.

6. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein, The second holding unit includes a second contact portion that contacts the operating unit contact and is electrically connected to the second end of the wire, and a second pressing portion configured to push the second contact portion toward the operating unit contact.

7. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein, The first holding unit includes a first contact portion that contacts the voltage control board contacts and is electrically connected to a first end of a wire, and a first pressing portion configured to push the first contact portion toward the voltage control board contacts.

8. The imaging device according to claim 7, wherein, The first pressing part is a torsion helical spring integrally formed with the first end of the wire, and The end of the torsion coil spring on the side opposite to the second end is the first contact portion.

9. The imaging device according to claim 7, wherein, The first holding unit includes an alignment part configured to position the first holding unit relative to the voltage control board when the first contact part is in contact with the contacts of the voltage control board.

10. The imaging device according to claim 7, wherein, The first pushing part is a compression spring. The first end of the compression spring in the extension / contraction direction contacts the first end of the wire, and The second end of the compression spring in the extension direction is the first contact part that contacts the voltage control board contact.

11. The imaging device according to claim 10, wherein, The first holding unit includes a first support portion, which is configured to support the voltage control plate when a compression spring is clamped between the first holding unit and the voltage control plate and compressed.

12. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein, The operation unit and the operation unit contact are respectively the first operation unit and the first contact. Imaging equipment also includes: Supporting framework main body; A second operating unit, configured to operate in response to a voltage supply, includes a second contact; and The box is detachably mounted to the support frame body and configured to support the first operating unit and the second operating unit; The first contact point is located on the upper surface of the box, and The second contact is located on the lower surface of the box.

13. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, in, The operation unit is a charging unit configured to charge the image-carrying components.

14. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, in, The operating unit is a developing unit configured to develop an electrostatic latent image formed on an image carrier member into a toner image.

15. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, in, The operating unit is a transfer unit configured to transfer a toner image carried on an image carrier member onto a recording material.

16. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, in, The operating unit is a limiting unit configured to limit the thickness of the toner carried on the image carrier component.

17. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, in, The operating unit is a de-energizing unit configured to de-energize the surface of the image-carrying component.

Images