Toner container and image forming system

Abstract

The objective of this invention is to provide a novel toner container that can be mounted to an image forming apparatus. The solution comprises a toner receiving portion, a discharge portion with an opening, a rotatable member capable of rotating in a first rotational direction and a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction, and a downwardly protruding protrusion. The protrusion has a first downward surface and a second downward surface facing downwards, and an upward surface facing upwards. The first and second downward surfaces extend in a manner that rises as they travel along the first rotational direction. At least a portion of the first downward surface is closer to the central axis in the radial direction than the second downward surface, and is positioned at a different location than the second downward surface in the circumferential direction of an imaginary circle. At least a portion of the upward surface is located above at least a portion of the second downward surface.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application entitled "Toner Container and Image Forming System", with an international filing date of December 6, 2021, international application number PCT / JP2021 / 045722, and national application number 202180035504.5. Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to a toner container that can be mounted on an image forming apparatus, and to an image forming system. Background Technology

[0003] In order to supply toner for an electrophotographic image forming apparatus to an image forming apparatus, a structure using a removable toner container for an image forming apparatus is known (WO2020100699A2). Summary of the Invention

[0004] [The problem to be solved]

[0005] Recently, users have needed various types of image forming equipment. The object of this invention is to provide a novel form of toner container that can be mounted onto an image forming device.

[0006] [Problem-solving methods]

[0007] A first aspect of the invention is a toner container, comprising: a receiving portion configured to receive a toner; a discharging portion configured to have an opening for discharging the toner from the receiving portion to the outside; a rotatable member rotatable relative to the discharging portion about a central axis serving as a rotation axis in a first rotation direction and in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction; and a protrusion disposed below the opening of the discharging portion and having an inner peripheral surface facing inward in a radial direction about an imaginary circle centered on the central axis when the toner container extends in the direction of gravity and at least a portion of the discharging portion is oriented in a predetermined direction below the receiving portion. When the toner container is oriented in a predetermined direction, the protrusion has a first downward surface and a second downward surface facing downward, and an upward surface facing upward. The first downward surface, the second downward surface, and the upward surface are located outside the inner circumferential surface and inside the opening of the discharge portion in the radial direction. The first downward surface and the second downward surface extend in a manner that extends upward as it travels in the first rotational direction. At least a portion of the first downward surface is located at a position that is closer to the central axis in the radial direction than the second downward surface and is located at a different position than the second downward surface in the circumferential direction of the imaginary circle. At least a portion of the upward surface is located above at least a portion of the second downward surface.

[0008] [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, a novel form of toner container that can be mounted on an image forming apparatus can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a view of the image forming system of Embodiment 1.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the image forming device according to Embodiment 1.

[0012] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view of the mounting section in Embodiment 1.

[0013] Figure 4 This is an external perspective view of the mounting section in Embodiment 1.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a top view of the mounting section in Embodiment 1, viewed from above.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a view of the mounting section in Embodiment 1, viewed from below.

[0016] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the equipment side baffle in Embodiment 1.

[0017] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of the lid in Example 1.

[0018] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the mounting section in Embodiment 1 (when the rotation of the equipment side baffle is restricted).

[0019] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the mounting section in Embodiment 1 (when the restriction on the rotation of the equipment side baffle is lifted).

[0020] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the limiting member in Embodiment 1.

[0021] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of the release component used in Example 1.

[0022] Figure 13 These are perspective and front views of the unit assembled with the limiting member and the releasing member in Embodiment 1.

[0023] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of the mounting section in Embodiment 1.

[0024] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of the mounting section in Embodiment 1.

[0025] Figure 16 This is a front view of the toner packet according to Example 1.

[0026] Figure 17 This is an exploded perspective view of the toner packet according to Example 1.

[0027] Figure 18 These are perspective and bottom views of the area near the nozzle in Example 1 (when the side baffle is closed).

[0028] Figure 19 These are perspective and bottom views of the area near the nozzle according to Embodiment 1 (when the pack side baffle is open).

[0029] Figure 20 This is a rear perspective view of the area near the nozzle in Example 1.

[0030] Figure 21 This is a front view of the area near the nozzle in Example 1.

[0031] Figure 22 This is a cross-sectional view of the protrusion of the nozzle in Embodiment 1.

[0032] Figure 23 This is a perspective view of the mounting section and toner pack in the state during the installation operation in Example 1.

[0033] Figure 24 This is a cross-sectional view of the mounting section and toner pack in the state during installation, as shown in Example 1.

[0034] Figure 25 This is a cross-sectional view of the mounting section and toner pack in the state during installation, as shown in Example 1.

[0035] Figure 26 This is an illustration of the process in Example 1 where the rotation restriction mechanism of the mounting part is used to release the rotation restriction on the side baffle of the equipment by installing a toner pack.

[0036] Figure 27 This is a cross-sectional view of the mounting section and the toner pack when the mounting section of the toner pack according to Example 1 is completed.

[0037] Figure 28 This is a perspective view of the toner pack mounted on the mounting section, viewed from above, with the lever in the closed and open positions.

[0038] Figure 29 It is a cross-sectional view showing the toner movement path when the equipment side baffle and the package side baffle are closed and opened.

[0039] Figure 30 This is a perspective view of the area near the nozzle in a variant of Example 1 of Example 1.

[0040] Figure 31 This is a perspective view of the area near the nozzle in variant 2 of embodiment 1.

[0041] Figure 32 This is a perspective view of the area near the nozzle in variant example 3 of embodiment 1.

[0042] Figure 33 These are perspective and front views of the area near the nozzle in variant example 4 of embodiment 1.

[0043] Figure 34 This is a front view of the toner packet in variant 5 of Example 1.

[0044] Figure 35 This is a perspective view of the area near the nozzle in variant 6 of Example 1.

[0045] Figure 36 This is a perspective view of the area near the nozzle in variant 7 of Example 1.

[0046] Figure 37 This is a perspective view of the area near the nozzle in variant 8 of Example 1.

[0047] Figure 38 This is a perspective view of the nozzle and accessories near the nozzle of variant 9 of embodiment 1.

[0048] Figure 39 This is an enlarged view of the second inclined surface of the restriction release section in Example 1 and its variants 1 to 9.

[0049] Figure 40 This is an exploded perspective view of the mounting section in Embodiment 2.

[0050] Figure 41 This is an external perspective view of the mounting section in Embodiment 2.

[0051] Figure 42 This is a view of the mounting section in Embodiment 2, viewed from above.

[0052] Figure 43 This is a view of the mounting section in Embodiment 2, viewed from below.

[0053] Figure 44 This is a perspective view of the equipment side baffle in Embodiment 2.

[0054] Figure 45 This is a perspective view of the lid in Example 2.

[0055] Figure 46 This is a perspective view of the limiting member in Embodiment 2.

[0056] Figure 47 This is a perspective view of the release component in Example 2.

[0057] Figure 48 This is a perspective view of the unit assembled with the limiting member and the releasing member in Embodiment 2.

[0058] Figure 49 This is a cross-sectional view of the mounting section in Embodiment 2 (when the rotation of the equipment side baffle is restricted).

[0059] Figure 50 This is a cross-sectional view showing the position of the release member relative to the restraint member in Embodiment 2.

[0060] Figure 51 This is a cross-sectional view of the mounting section in Embodiment 2 (when the rotation restriction of the equipment side baffle is released).

[0061] Figure 52 This is a cross-sectional view showing the position of the release member relative to the restraint member in Embodiment 2.

[0062] Figure 53 This is a cross-sectional view showing the position of the release member relative to the restraint member in Embodiment 2.

[0063] Figure 54 This is a cross-sectional view showing the position of the release member relative to the restraint member in Embodiment 2.

[0064] Figure 55 These are front, rear, and side views of the toner packet according to Example 2.

[0065] Figure 56 This is an exploded perspective view of the toner packet according to Example 2.

[0066] Figure 57 These are perspective and bottom views of the area near the nozzle in Example 2 (when the pack side baffle is closed).

[0067] Figure 58 These are perspective, bottom, and front views of the area near the nozzle in Example 2 (when the side baffle is open).

[0068] Figure 59 These are rear perspective views, enlarged perspective views of the protrusion, and front views near the nozzle, according to Embodiment 2.

[0069] Figure 60 These are perspective and bottom views of the protrusion in Embodiment 2.

[0070] Figure 61 These are the front and rear views of the area near the nozzle in Example 2.

[0071] Figure 62 These are cross-sectional views of the protrusion of the nozzle and bottom views of the nozzle in Embodiment 2.

[0072] Figure 63 This is a perspective view of the toner pack and the mounting section before and after the installation of the toner pack according to Example 2 is completed.

[0073] Figure 64 This is a cross-sectional view of the mounting section and the toner pack during installation according to Example 2.

[0074] Figure 65 This is a diagram illustrating the process in Embodiment 2 where the rotation restriction mechanism of the mounting part is used to release the rotation restriction on the side baffle of the equipment by installing a toner pack.

[0075] Figure 66 This is a diagram illustrating the process in Embodiment 2 where the rotation restriction mechanism of the mounting part is used to release the rotation restriction on the side baffle of the equipment by installing a toner pack.

[0076] Figure 67 This is an enlarged perspective view of the mounting section in Embodiment 2, showing how the release claw of the release member is exposed through the central hole of the cover of the mounting section.

[0077] Figure 68 This is a cross-sectional view of the mounting section and the toner pack when the installation of the toner pack in Example 2 is completed.

[0078] Figure 69 This is a perspective view of the toner pack mounted on the mounting section, viewed from above, with the lever in the closed and open positions.

[0079] Figure 70 It is a cross-sectional view showing the toner movement path when the device side baffle and the package side baffle are closed and open.

[0080] Figure 71 These are perspective and bottom views showing a modified example of the structure of the inner circumferential surface of the nozzle protrusion.

[0081] Figure 72 These are perspective and side views of the attachment of variant example 1 of embodiment 2.

[0082] Figure 73 These are top and cross-sectional views showing only the portion of variant 1 of embodiment 2 that relates to the installation of the accessory to the main component of the device.

[0083] Figure 74 This is a cross-sectional view showing the process of installing an accessory onto the main component of the device according to a variant of embodiment 2, Example 1.

[0084] Figure 75 This is a cross-sectional view showing the process of installing an accessory onto the main component of the device according to a variant of embodiment 2, Example 1.

[0085] Figure 76This is a perspective view of the toner packet according to Variation Example 1 of Example 2.

[0086] Figure 77 These are side and cross-sectional views of the toner packet installed in the main component of the device in Variation 1 of Example 2.

[0087] Figure 78 This is a perspective view of an accessory with a different shape according to a variation of Example 1 of Embodiment 2.

[0088] Figure 79 These are perspective and side views of the attachment unit according to Variation Example 2 of Embodiment 2.

[0089] Figure 80 This is a perspective view of the baffle in variant example 2 of embodiment 2.

[0090] Figure 81 This is a perspective view of the protruding component in variant example 2 of embodiment 2.

[0091] Figure 82 This is an exploded perspective view of the attachment unit according to Variation 2 of Embodiment 2.

[0092] Figure 83 This is a cross-sectional view of the protruding member and the baffle in their first position in a variant of Example 2 of Embodiment 2.

[0093] Figure 84 This is a side view near the protruding member in a variant of Example 2 of Embodiment 2, with the operating lever in a state between the closed and open positions.

[0094] Figure 85 This is a cross-sectional view near the protruding member in a variant of Example 2 of Embodiment 2, with the operating lever in a state between the closed and open positions.

[0095] Figure 86 This is a perspective view of the toner pack installed on the main component of the device according to Variation 2 of Example 2.

[0096] Figure 87 This is a perspective view of the accessory unit with a covered component installed according to Variation 2 of Embodiment 2.

[0097] Figure 88 This is a diagram showing the specific shapes of the first and second restriction release parts in variant example 3 of embodiment 2.

[0098] Figure 89 This is a diagram illustrating the process of rotating the release member via the first inclined surface of the first restriction release part in a variant of embodiment 2, example 3.

[0099] Figure 90This is a diagram illustrating the process of rotating the release member via the second inclined surface of the first restriction release part in a variant of Example 3 of Embodiment 2.

[0100] Figure 91 This is a diagram showing the specific shapes of the first and second restriction release parts in a variant of Example 3 of Embodiment 2, which takes another form.

[0101] Figure 92 This is a diagram illustrating the process of rotating the release member in a variant of Example 3 of Embodiment 2, using a first and a second release part in another form.

[0102] Figure 93 This is an external perspective view of the discharge unit according to Variation 4 of Example 2.

[0103] Figure 94 This is an exploded perspective view of the discharge unit according to Variation 4 of Example 2.

[0104] Figure 95 This is a perspective view of a toner packet equipped with a discharge unit according to Variation 4 of Example 2.

[0105] Figure 96 This is a perspective view of the toner packet according to Variation 5 of Example 2.

[0106] Figure 97 These are perspective and sectional views of the nozzle in variant example 5 of embodiment 2.

[0107] Figure 98 These are perspective and sectional views of the nozzle in variant 5 of Example 2, with the discharge opening facing downwards.

[0108] Figure 99 These are perspective and sectional views of the nozzle in variant 5 of Example 2, with the discharge opening facing radially outward.

[0109] Figure 100 This is a diagram showing the specific shapes of the first and second restriction release parts according to Variation 6 of Embodiment 2.

[0110] Figure 101 These are perspective, front, side and rear views of the toner packet according to Variation 7 of Example 2.

[0111] Figure 102 These are perspective views of the toner package and mounting part according to Variation 7 of Example 2, and perspective views of the rod for opening the side baffle of the equipment.

[0112] Figure 103 This is an illustration showing the entire toner package according to Example 3.

[0113] Figure 104 This is an exploded perspective view of the nozzle and the part assembled to the nozzle in Example 3.

[0114] Figure 105 This is an exploded perspective view of the nozzle and the part assembled to the nozzle in Example 3.

[0115] Figure 106 This is a diagram showing the specific shape of the restriction release member in Embodiment 3.

[0116] Figure 107 This is a cross-sectional view of the toner packet according to Example 3.

[0117] Figure 108 This is a diagram illustrating the operation process of the toner packet in Example 3.

[0118] Figure 109 This is a cross-sectional view of the toner packet according to Example 3.

[0119] Figure 110 This is a diagram illustrating the process of releasing the rotation restriction mechanism of the mounting part on the side baffle of the equipment by installing a toner pack according to Embodiment 3.

[0120] Figure 111 This is a diagram illustrating the process in Embodiment 3 where the rotation restriction mechanism of the mounting part is used to release the rotation restriction on the side baffle of the equipment by installing a toner pack.

[0121] Figure 112 This is a diagram showing the specific shape of the restriction-removal member according to Variation 1 of Embodiment 3.

[0122] Figure 113 This is a diagram showing the specific shape of the restriction release member in variant example 2 of embodiment 3.

[0123] Figure 114 This is an illustration showing the entire toner package according to Example 4.

[0124] Figure 115 This is an exploded perspective view of the nozzle and the part assembled to the nozzle in Example 4.

[0125] Figure 116 This is a perspective view of the nozzle in Example 4.

[0126] Figure 117 This is a perspective view of the movement path in Example 4.

[0127] Figure 118 This is a perspective view of the cam component, operating component, and shaft component in Embodiment 4.

[0128] Figure 119This is a diagram illustrating the movement path and tension spring assembly to the nozzle in Embodiment 4.

[0129] Figure 120 This is a diagram illustrating the process of assembling the operating mechanism to the nozzle in Embodiment 4.

[0130] Figure 121 This is a perspective view of the parts in Example 4 assembled into the nozzle.

[0131] Figure 122 This is a diagram showing the state of the side baffle in the open and closed positions at the second position of the movement path in Embodiment 4.

[0132] Figure 123 This is a diagram illustrating how the movement path is operated by manipulating the operating component in Embodiment 4.

[0133] Figure 124 This is a diagram illustrating the process of inserting the toner packet into the mounting section and operating the lever and operating member according to Embodiment 4.

[0134] Figure 125 This is a cross-sectional view of the toner pack installed at the attachment and the operating lever in the open position in Example 4.

[0135] Figure 126 This is a cross-sectional view of Embodiment 4 when the operating component is operated to move the movement path to the first position.

[0136] Figure 127 This is a perspective view of the toner packet according to Example 5.

[0137] Figure 128 This is an exploded perspective view of the toner packet according to Example 5.

[0138] Figure 129 This is a partially exploded perspective view of the toner packet according to Example 5.

[0139] Figure 130 This is a partially exploded perspective view of the toner packet according to Example 5.

[0140] Figure 131 This is a perspective view of the nozzle in Example 5.

[0141] Figure 132 These are cross-sectional and side views of the nozzle in Example 5.

[0142] Figure 133 This is a schematic perspective view illustrating the user's first operation in Embodiment 5.

[0143] Figure 134 This is a side view showing the second operation of the user in Embodiment 5.

[0144] Figure 135 This is a side view showing the third operation of a user according to Embodiment 5.

[0145] Figure 136 This is a cross-sectional view showing the third operation of the user in Embodiment 5.

[0146] Figure 137 This is a perspective view showing the state of the toner seal before and after it was damaged in Example 5.

[0147] Figure 138 This is an external view of a toner package with a structure in Example 5 where the toner seal is pulled out.

[0148] Figure 139 This is an exploded perspective view showing the attachment of the toner seal of the toner package in Example 5.

[0149] Figure 140 This is a partial exploded perspective view showing the installation of the toner seal of the toner package according to Example 5.

[0150] Figure 141 This is a cross-sectional view of a toner package configured to pull the toner seal out to the outside, according to Example 5.

[0151] Figure 142 This is an illustration showing the entire toner package according to Example 6.

[0152] Figure 143 This is an exploded perspective view of the restriction release mechanism according to Embodiment 6.

[0153] Figure 144 This is a diagram illustrating the specific shape and assembly method of the restriction release mechanism of Embodiment 6.

[0154] Figure 145 This is a cross-sectional view of the toner packet according to Example 6.

[0155] Figure 146 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the restriction release mechanism in Embodiment 6.

[0156] Figure 147 This is an enlarged perspective view of the area near the protrusion of the toner packet according to Example 6.

[0157] Figure 148 This is an illustration showing the entire toner package according to Example 7.

[0158] Figure 149 This is an exploded perspective view of the restriction release mechanism according to Embodiment 7.

[0159] Figure 150This is a detailed drawing of the first and second restriction release components in Embodiment 7.

[0160] Figure 151 This is a cross-sectional view of the toner packet according to Example 7.

[0161] Figure 152 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the restriction release mechanism in Embodiment 7.

[0162] Figure 153 This is a diagram illustrating the process in Embodiment 7 where the rotation restriction mechanism of the mounting section is used to release the rotation restriction on the side baffle of the equipment by installing a toner pack.

[0163] Figure 154 This is a detailed drawing of the first and second restriction release components in variant example 1 of embodiment 7.

[0164] Figure 155 This is a diagram illustrating the process of releasing the rotation restriction mechanism of the mounting part on the side baffle of the equipment by installing a toner pack in Variation 1 of Embodiment 7.

[0165] Figure 156 This is an exploded perspective view of the restriction release mechanism according to Variation Example 2 of Embodiment 7.

[0166] Figure 157 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the restriction release mechanism according to Variation 2 of Embodiment 7.

[0167] Figure 158 This is a diagram illustrating the process of releasing the rotation restriction mechanism of the mounting part on the side baffle of the equipment by installing a toner pack in Variation 2 of Embodiment 7.

[0168] Figure 159 This is an exploded perspective view of the restriction release mechanism in variant 3 of Example 7.

[0169] Figure 160 This is a diagram illustrating the process of releasing the rotation restriction mechanism of the mounting part on the side baffle of the equipment by installing a toner pack in Variation 3 of Embodiment 7.

[0170] Figure 161 This is a diagram showing the position of the pin set on the straight section when the toner pack is installed on the mounting section in Variation 3 of Example 7.

[0171] Figure 162 This is an illustration showing the entire toner package according to Example 8.

[0172] Figure 163 This is an exploded perspective view of Embodiment 8 before the restriction release component and collar are assembled to the nozzle.

[0173] Figure 164 This is a detailed drawing of the restriction release component in Embodiment 8.

[0174] Figure 165 This is a cross-sectional view of the restriction release component in Embodiment 8.

[0175] Figure 166 This is a cross-sectional view of the toner packet according to Example 8.

[0176] Figure 167 This is a diagram illustrating the process of releasing the rotation restriction mechanism of the mounting part on the side baffle of the equipment by installing a toner pack according to Embodiment 8.

[0177] Figure 168 This is a diagram illustrating the process in Embodiment 8 where the rotation restriction mechanism of the mounting part is used to release the rotation restriction on the side baffle of the equipment by installing a toner pack.

[0178] Figure 169 This is a diagram illustrating the process in Embodiment 8 where the rotation restriction mechanism of the mounting part is used to release the rotation restriction on the side baffle of the equipment by installing a toner pack.

[0179] Figure 170 This is a diagram illustrating the process of releasing the rotation restriction mechanism of the mounting part on the side baffle of the equipment by installing a toner pack according to Embodiment 8.

[0180] Figure 171 This is a diagram illustrating the process in Embodiment 8 where the rotation restriction mechanism of the mounting part is used to release the rotation restriction on the side baffle of the equipment by installing a toner pack.

[0181] Figure 172 This is a diagram illustrating the process in Embodiment 8 where the rotation restriction mechanism of the mounting part is used to release the rotation restriction on the side baffle of the equipment by installing a toner pack.

[0182] Figure 173 This is a perspective view of the restriction release member in variant example 1 of embodiment 8.

[0183] Figure 174 This is a detailed drawing of the restriction release component in variant example 2 of embodiment 8.

[0184] Figure 175 This is a detailed drawing of the restriction release component according to Variation 3 of Example 8.

[0185] Figure 176 This is a perspective view of the toner packet according to Example 9.

[0186] Figure 177 This is an exploded perspective view of the toner packet according to Example 9.

[0187] Figure 178 This is an exploded perspective view of the nozzle according to Example 9.

[0188] Figure 179 This is an exploded perspective view of the side baffle according to Embodiment 9.

[0189] Figure 180 These are top and side views showing the state of the toner pack installed on the mounting section in Embodiment 9.

[0190] Figure 181 This is a cross-sectional view of the toner packet being installed on the mounting section in Example 9.

[0191] Figure 182 This is a cross-sectional view of the toner packet being installed on the mounting section according to Example 9.

[0192] Figure 183 This is a perspective view of the toner packet according to Example 10.

[0193] Figure 184 This is an exploded perspective view of the toner packet according to Example 10.

[0194] Figure 185 This is an exploded view of the nozzle in Example 10.

[0195] Figure 186 This is an exploded perspective view of the side baffle according to Embodiment 10.

[0196] Figure 187 These are side and cross-sectional views of the toner packet according to Example 10.

[0197] Figure 188 These are top views, side views, and cross-sectional views showing the state in which the toner packet is installed to the mounting section in Embodiment 10.

[0198] Figure 189 This is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which the toner packet is installed in the mounting section in Embodiment 10.

[0199] Figure 190 These are top views, side views, and cross-sectional views showing the state in which the toner in the toner packet of Example 10 is supplied to the toner receiving chamber of the developer container.

[0200] Figure 191 This is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which the toner from the toner packet in Example 10 is supplied to the toner containment chamber of the developer container.

[0201] Figure 192 This is a perspective view of the free end component of the toner packet in the first posture in Example 11.

[0202] Figure 193This is a partial exploded perspective view of the toner packet according to Example 11.

[0203] Figure 194 This is an exploded perspective view of the protruding component in Example 11.

[0204] Figure 195 These are side and sectional views showing user operations of the protruding components in Embodiment 11.

[0205] Figure 196 This is a diagram showing the structure of only one restriction release part of the protrusion in Embodiment 2, and the structure of the second restriction release part having a shape that is 190 degrees rotationally symmetrical with the first restriction release part. Detailed Implementation

[0206] In the following description, exemplary embodiments for carrying out the invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0207] <Example 1>

[0208] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0209] (Image forming equipment system)

[0210] Figure 1 Part (a) is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the structure of the image forming system 1000 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 1 Part (b) is a perspective view of the image forming system 1000.

[0211] The image forming system 1000 includes an image forming apparatus 1 and a toner pack 100 (toner container, toner box) that can be installed into the image forming apparatus 1. Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the image forming apparatus 1 without the toner pack 100 installed.

[0212] Toner pack 100 can be installed Figure 2 The image forming apparatus 1 is mounted on the mounting section 106, and toner to be supplied to the image forming apparatus 1 is contained therein. The specific structure of the toner pack 100 will be described below. The toner pack 100 is positioned along... Figure 2 The toner packet 100 is installed by moving it in the indicated installation direction M. In this embodiment, the installation direction M of the toner packet 100 is the direction of gravity, but direction M can be tilted relative to the direction of gravity.

[0213] (Image forming equipment)

[0214] Image forming apparatus 1 is a monochrome printer that forms an image on recording material P based on image information input from an external device. Recording material P can be various sheet materials, such as paper like ordinary paper and thick paper, plastic film like sheets for overhead projectors, sheets with special shapes like envelopes and index paper, or various sheets made of different materials like cloth.

[0215] like Figure 1 Part (a) and Figure 1 As shown in part (b), the image forming apparatus 1 has the following structure. It includes an image forming section 10 that forms a toner image on a recording material P, a pickup roller 65 that feeds the recording material P to the image forming section 10, a fixing section 70 that fixes the toner image formed by the image forming section 10 onto the recording material P, and an exhaust roller pair 80.

[0216] The image forming unit 10 includes a scanner unit 11, an electrophotographic processing unit 20, and a transfer roller 12 that transfers a toner image (which serves as a developer image) formed on the photosensitive drum 21 of the processing unit 20 onto the recording material P. The processing unit 20 includes a photosensitive drum 21, a charging roller 22, a pre-exposure section 23, and a developing apparatus 30 (developing unit, developing section) including a developing roller 31.

[0217] The photosensitive drum 21 (image carrier) is a photosensitive component molded into a cylindrical shape. In this embodiment, the photosensitive drum 21 has a photosensitive layer formed of a negatively charged organic photosensitive component on an aluminum drum-shaped substrate. Furthermore, the photosensitive drum 21 is driven by a motor to rotate in a predetermined rotation direction (clockwise in the figure) at a predetermined processing speed.

[0218] The charging roller 22 contacts the photosensitive drum 21 with a predetermined pressure contact force to form a charging section. Furthermore, by applying a desired charging voltage from a charging high-voltage power supply, the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 is uniformly charged to a predetermined potential. In this embodiment, the photosensitive drum 21 is charged to a negative polarity by the charging roller 22. The pre-exposure section 23 removes static electricity from the surface potential of the photosensitive drum 21 before the surface of the photosensitive drum reaches the charging section, thereby generating a stable discharge in the charging section.

[0219] The scanner unit 11, serving as the exposure device, scans and exposes the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 by using a multifaceted mirror and a laser beam corresponding to image information input from an external device to irradiate the photosensitive drum 21. Through this exposure, an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image information is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 21. The scanner unit 11 is not limited to a laser scanner device; for example, an LED exposure device including an LED array in which multiple LEDs are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the photosensitive drum 21 can be used.

[0220] The developing apparatus 30 includes a developing roller 31 for being supplied with developer and serving as a developer carrier member for carrying the developer, a developer container 32 (developing frame) serving as a frame for the developing apparatus 30, and a supply roller 33 capable of supplying developer to the developing roller 31. The developing roller 31 and the supply roller 33 are rotatably supported by the developer container 32. Furthermore, the developing roller 31 is arranged facing the photosensitive drum 21 in the opening of the developer container 32. The supply roller 33 is rotatably in contact with the developing roller 31, and toner, as part of the developer contained in the developer container 32, is supplied by the supply roller 33 to the surface of the developing roller 31. If the toner can be adequately supplied to the developing roller 31, the supply roller 33 is not always necessary.

[0221] The developing apparatus 30 of this embodiment uses a contact developing method. That is, in the developing section (developing area) where the photosensitive drum 21 and the developing roller 31 face each other, the toner layer carried on the developing roller 31 contacts the photosensitive drum 21. A developing voltage is applied to the developing roller 31 using a developing high-voltage power supply. Under the developing voltage, based on the potential distribution on the surface of the photosensitive drum 21, the toner carried on the developing roller 31 is transferred from the developing roller 31 to the drum surface, causing the electrostatic latent image to be developed into a toner image. In this embodiment, a reverse developing method is used. That is, the surface of the photosensitive drum is charged in the charging step, and then the charge is attenuated by exposure in the exposure step, and the toner adheres to the surface area of ​​the photosensitive drum 21 where the charge has been attenuated, thereby forming a toner image.

[0222] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a toner with a particle size of 6 μm and a negative conventional charge polarity is used. As an example, the toner in this embodiment uses a polymerized toner prepared by a polymerization method. Additionally, the toner in this embodiment does not contain magnetic components and is a so-called non-magnetic single-component developer that supports the toner on the developing roller 31 primarily through intermolecular forces or electrostatic forces (mirror forces). However, single-component developers containing magnetic components can be used. In addition to toner particles, single-component developers may contain additives (e.g., wax or fine silica particles) for adjusting the toner's flowability and charge properties. Furthermore, as a developer, a two-component developer containing a non-magnetic toner and a magnetic carrier can be used. When a magnetic developer is used, for example, a cylindrical developing sleeve with a magnet internally arranged is used as the developer carrier.

[0223] The developer container 32 includes a toner receiving chamber 36 (second receiving section, main component receiving section) for containing toner. A stirring member 34 (toner delivery member) is disposed within the toner receiving chamber 36. The stirring member 34 is driven by a motor (not shown) to stir the toner in the developer container 32 while simultaneously feeding toner to the developing roller 31 and the supply roller 33. Furthermore, the stirring member 34 circulates toner that has not been used for development and has been stripped from the developing roller 31 within the developer container, thereby ensuring uniform toner distribution within the container. The stirring member 34 is not limited to a rotary type. For example, a stirring member with an oscillating shape may be used alternatively.

[0224] Furthermore, a developing blade 35, which limits the amount of toner carried on the developing roller 31, is arranged at the opening of the developer container 32 in which the developing roller 31 is arranged. The toner supplied to the surface of the developing roller 31 passes over the portion facing the developing blade 35 as the developing roller 31 rotates, causing the toner to uniformly form a thin layer and be charged to a negative polarity through triboelectric charging.

[0225] Next, the image forming operation of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described. When an image forming command is input to the image forming apparatus 1, the image forming process of the image forming unit 10 begins based on image information input from an external computer connected to the image forming apparatus 1. The scanner unit 11 irradiates the photosensitive drum 21 with a laser beam based on the input image information. At this time, the photosensitive drum 21 is pre-charged by the charging roller 22, and an electrostatic latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum 21 by being irradiated with a laser beam. Subsequently, the electrostatic latent image is developed by the developing roller 31, and a toner image is formed on the photosensitive drum 21.

[0226] In parallel with the image formation process described above, the recording material P is fed out by the pickup roller 65 and fed toward the transfer clamping part formed by the transfer roller 12 and the photosensitive drum 21.

[0227] The transfer roller 12 is supplied with a transfer voltage from a high-voltage power supply, thereby transferring the toner image carried on the photosensitive drum 21 onto the recording material P. When the recording material P carrying the toner image passes through the fixing unit 70, the toner image is heated and pressurized. As a result, the toner particles melt and are then fixed, thus fixing the toner image onto the recording material P. The recording material P that has passed through the fixing unit 70 is discharged to the outside of the image forming apparatus 1 (outside the machine) via the discharge roller pair 80, which serves as a discharge device, and discharged onto the discharge tray 81 (which serves as a stacking section) located at the top of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0228] A top cover 82, serving as a stacking tray, is disposed at the upper part of the image forming apparatus 1, and a discharge tray 81, serving as a stacking surface, is formed on the upper surface of the top cover 82. Figure 1 Part (b) and Figure 2As shown, the top cover 82 is provided with an opening / closing member 83, which is supported to open / close about a rotation axis 83a extending in the front-rear direction. The discharge tray 81 of the top cover 82 is provided with an upwardly opening 82a. Figure 2 As shown, the mounting part 106 for mounting the toner pack 100 is exposed through the opening 82a.

[0229] The opening / closing member 83 is movable between a closed position covering the mounting portion 106 and an open position exposing the mounting portion 106, allowing the toner pack 100 to be mounted onto the image forming apparatus 1. In the closed position, the toner pack 100 cannot be mounted onto the image forming apparatus 1. In the closed position, the opening / closing member 83 functions as part of the discharge tray 81. When viewed from the front of the image forming apparatus 1, the opening / closing member 83 and the opening 82a are formed on the left side of the discharge tray 81. The front side of the image forming apparatus 1 described herein is the upstream side of the image forming apparatus 1 in the direction in which the recording material P is fed by the pickup roller 65. Furthermore, the opening / closing member 83 is opened to the left by hooking a finger into the recess 82b provided in the top cover 82.

[0230] The opening 82a of the discharge tray 81 is opened, exposing the mounting portion 106 formed on the upper part of the image forming apparatus 1, and the user can access the mounting portion 106 by opening the opening / closing member 83. In this embodiment, a direct supply method is used, wherein: while the developing apparatus 30 is installed in the image forming apparatus 1, the user supplies toner from the toner pack 100 mounted on the mounting portion 106 to the developing apparatus 30. At least a portion of the toner pack 100 is exposed to the outside of the image forming apparatus 1 while the toner pack is mounted on the mounting portion 106 of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0231] When the amount of toner remaining in the processing unit 20 is low, it is not necessary to remove the processing unit 20 from the image forming apparatus 1 and replace it with a new processing unit, thereby improving availability. Furthermore, toner can be replenished to the developer container 32 at a lower cost compared to replacing the entire processing unit 20. In the direct supply method, there is no need to replace various rollers, gears, etc., thus reducing costs compared to replacing only the developing apparatus 30 of the processing unit 20.

[0232] (Toner Packaging Installation Department)

[0233] First, refer to Figures 3 to 8 The structure of the mounting section 106 will be described below. In this embodiment, the mounting section 106 is a unit for mounting the toner packet 100.

[0234] Figure 3 Part (a) is an exploded perspective view of the mounting section 106. Figure 3Part (b) is from with Figure 3 Part (a) Exploded perspective view of the mounting section 106 viewed from different directions.

[0235] Figure 4 Part (a) and Figure 5 Part (a) shows a perspective view of the appearance of the mounting part 106 when the operating lever 108 is in the closed position, and a view of the mounting part 106 when viewed along the mounting direction M. Figure 4 Part (b) and Figure 5 Part (b) shows a perspective view of the appearance of the mounting part 106 when the operating lever 108 is in the open position, and a view of the mounting part 106 when viewed along the mounting direction M. Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the mounting section 106 when viewed from the downstream side in the mounting direction M.

[0236] Figure 7 Part (a) is a perspective view of the equipment side baffle 109 as viewed from the upstream side in the installation direction M. Figure 7 Part (b) is from with Figure 7 Part (a) Perspective view of the side baffle 109 of the equipment when viewed from different viewpoints. Figure 8 Part (a) is a perspective view of cover 110 when viewed from the downstream side in the mounting direction M. Figure 8 Part (b) is a perspective view of cover 110 when viewed from the upstream side in the installation direction M.

[0237] Figure 3 and 4 The mounting portion 106 shown is provided with a base frame 2 including a first frame 107, a second frame 117, and a cover 110. The cover 110 and the second frame 117 are fixed to the first frame 107. Figure 8 As shown, the cover 110 includes a joined portion 110h, which joins with the first frame 107b. Figure 3 The parts (a) are joined so as not to rotate about the axis of rotation B relative to the first frame 107. The first frame 107, the cover 110, and the second frame 117 may be constructed integrally, rather than as separate components. Figure 3 and 6 As shown, the second frame 117 is provided with an equipment-side opening 117a (frame opening, receiving opening), and the equipment-side opening 117a is in fluid communication with the toner receiving chamber 36 of the developing apparatus 30 (see...). Figure 1 Part (a)).

[0238] The operating lever 108 and the equipment side baffle 109 (second baffle) are mounted to the base frame 2 in a manner that allows them to rotate about the rotation axis B (central axis).

[0239] The first frame 107 is provided with a positioning part 107a. The positioning part 107a protrudes inward from the inner peripheral surface of the first frame 107 centered on the rotation axis B along the radial direction r of an imaginary circle VC centered on the rotation axis B. Furthermore, the operating lever 108 is provided with a drive transmission part 108a (lever protrusion) and an operating part 108b. For example... Figure 3 As shown in part (a), the drive transmission part 108a of the operating lever 108 is a protrusion that extends inward in the radial direction r of an imaginary circle VC centered on the rotation axis B, beyond the inner circumferential surface of the operating lever 108 centered on the rotation axis B.

[0240] The equipment side baffle 109 is a cylindrical component with an open upper section, and as... Figure 7 As shown, the equipment side baffle 109 has a receiving opening 109a (second baffle opening, equipment side baffle opening) in its lateral side surface extending along the rotation axis B, and includes a bottom surface 109b with a limiting rib 109c (rotation limiting part). The equipment side baffle 109 also includes a central boss 109d (positioning shaft, shaft portion), a driven transmission part 109e (pushed part, equipment side baffle protrusion), a contact surface 109g (mounting direction positioning), and an inner peripheral surface 109h (radial direction positioning). The equipment side baffle 109 is configured to rotate relative to the base frame 2 about the rotation axis B.

[0241] The restraining rib 109c protrudes upward from the bottom surface 109b along the direction of the rotation axis B. For example... Figure 7 As shown in part (a), the driven transmission part 109e is a protrusion that projects inward in the radial direction r of an imaginary circle VC centered on the rotation axis B. A device-side seal 111 is installed around the receiving opening 109a (see [reference]). Figure 4 Part (b)).

[0242] Here, the device side baffle 109 is configured to rotate relative to the base frame 2 between a closed position where the receiving opening 109a is covered by the device side seal 111 and the cover 110, and an open position where the receiving opening is open and not covered by the cover 110. The closed position is... Figure 4 Part (a) and Figure 5 The position shown in part (a) is the position where the receiving opening 109a of the device side baffle 109 is not in fluid communication with the device side opening 117a of the second frame 117 (non-communication position). The open position is Figure 4 Part (b) and Figure 5The position shown in part (b) is where the receiving opening 109a of the device side baffle 109 is in fluid communication with the device side opening 117a of the second frame 117 (communication position). By moving the device side baffle 109 to the open position, toner can be supplied from the toner package 100 to the toner receiving chamber 36 of the developing apparatus 30 through the receiving opening 109a.

[0243] The operating lever 108 and the device side baffle 109 are not connected for drive transmission, so the device side baffle 109 will not rotate even if the operating lever 108 is operated when the toner pack 100 is not installed.

[0244] (Equipment side baffle rotation restriction mechanism)

[0245] like Figure 3 As shown, the mounting section 106 of the image forming apparatus 1 also includes a rotation limiting mechanism 112, which includes a limiting member 113 (rotation limiting member), a release member 114, a limiting spring 115, and a release spring 116.

[0246] refer to Figures 9 to 15 The rotation limiting mechanism 112 will be described. Figure 9 , 10 In sections 110 and 14, for better illustration, the cross-sections of cover 110, restrictive member 113, and release member 114 are shaded.

[0247] The following situation may occur: When the toner pack 100 is not installed on the mounting part 106, the device side baffle 109 may unintentionally move from the closed position to the open position due to impact during the transportation of the image forming apparatus 1 or due to user error. In this case, the user may find it difficult to install the toner pack 100 on the mounting part 106 when using the image forming apparatus 1. Details regarding this will be described below. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 1 of this embodiment is provided with a rotation limiting mechanism 112 to prevent the device side baffle 109 from rotating from the closed position to the open position.

[0248] Figure 9 and 10 This is a sectional view of the mounting section 106. Figure 9 Part (a) is a cross-sectional view taken along a line parallel to the rotation axis B, with the rotation of the device side baffle 109 from the closed position to the open position restricted by the rotation limiting mechanism 112. Figure 9 Part (b) is along Figure 9 The sectional view taken by line X1-X1 in part (a). Figure 10Part (a) is a cross-sectional view taken along a line parallel to the axis of rotation B, with the rotation restriction mechanism 112 releasing the rotation restriction on the equipment side baffle 109. Figure 10 Part (b) is along Figure 10 A sectional view taken by line X2-X2 in part (a). For ease of explanation, Figure 10 The image shows the state of the mounting section 106 with the rotation restriction of the device side baffle 109 released when the toner pack 100 is not installed.

[0249] also, Figure 11 Part (a) is a perspective view of the limiting member 113 as viewed from the upstream side in the installation direction M. Figure 11 Part (b) is a perspective view of the limiting member 113 as viewed from the downstream side in the installation direction. Figure 12 Part (a) is a perspective view of the release member 114 as viewed from the upstream side in the installation direction M. Figure 12 Part (b) is a perspective view of the release member 114 as viewed from the downstream side in the installation direction M. Figure 13 Part (a) is a perspective view of the unit in which the limiting member 113 and the releasing member 114 are assembled. Figure 13 Part (b) is a cross-sectional view of the unit in which the limiting member 113 and the releasing member 114 are assembled, taken along a line parallel to the axis of rotation B.

[0250] like Figure 9 As shown in part (a), the limiting member 113, the releasing member 114, the limiting spring 115 and the releasing spring 116 are disposed inside the equipment side baffle 109.

[0251] like Figure 11 As shown, the limiting member 113 is an annular member with a central hole 113i centered on the rotation axis B. The limiting member 113 includes a lower surface 113a, a pair of first contact surfaces 113b, a second contact surface 113h, a second limiting surface 113c (rotation limiting portion), a contacted surface 113e, a pair of locked surfaces 113f, and a spring engagement portion 113g. The pair of first contact surfaces 113b and second contact surfaces 113h are downstream end surfaces in the rotation direction D of the device side baffle 109. The second limiting surface 113c is the downstream end surface in the rotation direction E of the device side baffle 109. The locked surface 113f is the upstream end surface (upper surface) in the mounting direction M. The lower surface 113a is the downstream end surface in the mounting direction M. The spring engagement portion 113g is a protrusion projecting in the rotation direction E.

[0252] like Figure 12As shown, the release member 114 (guided member) is provided with a pair of upwardly extending release claws 114e (engaging claws) and a central hole 114i centered on the rotation axis B. The release member 114 includes a pair of contact surfaces 114a, a contact surface 114b, a pair of rising restrained surfaces 114c, a pair of locking surfaces 114d, a pair of release claws 114e (engaged portions), a pair of contact surfaces 114f, and a spring engagement portion 114g. The pair of contact surfaces 114a are downstream end surfaces in the rotation direction E of the device side baffle 109. The contact surface 114b is an upstream end surface (upper surface) in the mounting direction M. The contact surface 114f is a downstream end surface in the rotation direction E relative to the contact surface 114a. The rising restrained surface 114c is a surface connecting the contact surfaces 114a and 114f, and is an upstream end surface (upward-facing end surface) in the mounting direction M. The locking surface 114d is a surface that protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the release member 114 and faces the installation direction M (the downward-facing surface).

[0253] like Figure 13 As shown, when the limiting member 113 and the releasing member 114 are assembled, the locked surface 113f of the limiting member 113 is directly below and faces the locking surface 114d of the releasing member 114. In addition, the releasing claw 114e protrudes upward from the central hole of the limiting member 113 centered on the axis of rotation B, beyond the upper surface of the limiting member 113.

[0254] like Figure 9 Part (a) and Figure 9 As shown in part (b), the limiting member 113 and the releasing member 114 are rotatably supported by the large-diameter portion 109d1 of the central boss 109d of the equipment side baffle 109. Furthermore, the rotation limiting mechanism 112 is covered by the upper surface 110i of the cover 110. The central boss 109d is coaxially arranged with the rotation axis B of the equipment side baffle 109. The limiting member 113 is pushed by the pushing force F1 of the limiting spring 115 (second elastic member, second pushing member) in the direction of arrow C along the rotation axis B, and its lower surface 113a contacts the bottom surface 109b of the equipment side baffle 109. The position of the limiting member at this time is the limiting position. The direction of arrow C is the mounting direction M of the toner bag 100. Furthermore, as... Figure 9As shown in part (b), a release spring 116 (first elastic member, first pushing member) is disposed between the restraining member 113 and the release member 114 in the rotational direction of the device side baffle 109. One end and the other end of the release spring 116 engage with the spring engagement portion 113g of the restraining member 113 and the spring engagement portion 114g of the release member 114, respectively. By the pushing force F2 of the release spring 116, the restraining member 113 receives a torque M1 in the rotational direction D, such that at least one of the first contact surfaces 113b contacts the corresponding first contact surface 110a of the cover 110. The second contact surface 113h of the restraining member 113 contacts the contacted surface 110j of the cover 110 (see...). Figure 8 This restricts rotation in the direction of rotation D. On the other hand, the release member 114 receives a torque M2 in the direction of rotation E generated by the pushing force F3 of the release spring 116, such that at least one of the contact surfaces 114a contacts the corresponding second contacted surface 110b of the cover 110.

[0255] Here, the cover 110 is integrally fixed to the first frame 107. Therefore, as Figure 9 As shown in part (b), the limiting rib 109c of the device side baffle 109 is located between the first limiting surface 110c of the cover 110 and the second limiting surface 113c of the limiting member 113. Therefore, the rotation of the device side baffle 109 in the rotational direction D (from the closed position to the open position) is limited by the second limiting surface 113c of the limiting member 113. The rotation of the device side baffle 109 in the rotational direction E (from the open position to the closed position) is limited by the first limiting surface 110c of the cover 110.

[0256] (Method to remove rotation restriction)

[0257] The method for releasing the rotation restriction of the equipment side baffle 109 via the rotation restriction mechanism 112 will be described. (Execution from...) Figure 9 Part (b) overcomes the torque M2 of the release spring 116 by rotating the release member 114 in the rotational direction D as the first step, and then performs the following steps: Figure 9 The second step involves moving the release member 114 in the direction of arrow G shown in part (a). The first and second steps are performed by mounting the toner packet 100 onto the mounting part 106, which will be described after the structure of the toner packet 100 is described. Here, only the structure of the mounting part 106 will be described.

[0258] In the second step, the contact surface 114b of the releasing member 114 abuts against the contacted surface 113e of the limiting member 113, and the releasing member 114 and the limiting member 113 move integrally in the direction of arrow G against the pushing force F1 of the limiting spring 115. By performing the second step, as... Figure 10The rotation restriction has been lifted, and the direction of arrow G is opposite to the installation direction M of the toner pack 100.

[0259] When the rotation limit is released, such as Figure 10 As shown in part (b), the second limiting surface 113c of the limiting member 113 retracts from the movement trajectory (rotation trajectory) of the limiting rib 109c of the device side baffle 109. At this time, the position of the limiting member 113 is the restriction-released position (released position). Then, the limiting rib 109c becomes movable between the first limiting surface 110c and the third limiting surface 110d of the cover 110. The distance between the first limiting surface 110c and the third limiting surface 110d allows the device side baffle 109 to rotate and move between the closed position and the open position, thus releasing the rotation restriction of the device side baffle 109. The device side baffle 109 becomes rotatable about the rotation axis B in the rotation direction D from the closed position to the open position. On the other hand, the rotation of the device side baffle 109 from the closed position in the direction opposite to the rotation direction D is restricted by the first limiting surface 110c of the cover 110. The amount of movement of the release member 114 in the direction of arrow G (upward direction) is sufficient, provided that the amount of movement is not less than the amount that prevents the second limiting surface 113c of the limiting member 113 from overlapping with the limiting rib 109c of the equipment side baffle 109 in the direction of the rotation axis B during the movement together with the release member 114.

[0260] Here, the structure of the rotation limiting mechanism 112 will be described, which prevents the rotation limitation of the equipment side baffle 109 from being released when the rotation limiting mechanism 112 is executed from the second step without executing the first step.

[0261] Figure 14 Part (a) is along Figure 9 The sectional view taken by line X3-X3 in part (b). Figure 14 Part (b) is when the limiting member 113 is from Figure 14 The state of part (a) moves in the direction of arrow G and the member 114 is released when it does not rotate in the direction of rotation D. The section view is taken along line X3-X3.

[0262] like Figure 14 Part (a) and Figure 8 As shown in part (a), the cover 110 is provided with a rise limiting surface 110e (rise limiting part). Figure 14 Part (a) and Figure 12 As shown in part (a), the release member 114 is provided with a rise-restricted surface 114c (rise-restricted portion). When the second contact surface 110b and contact surface 114a are as Figure 9As shown in part (b), when the limiting member 113 moves along the direction of arrow G in a state of contact with each other, the locked surface 113f of the limiting member 113 abuts against the locked surface 114d of the releasing member 114. The same structure is also provided on the opposite side relative to the rotation axis B, which is the center, so the limiting member 113 and the releasing member 114 move integrally along the direction of arrow G (upward). As a result, as... Figure 14 As shown in part (b), the rising of the release member 114 is restricted by the limiting surface 114c abutting against the rising limiting surface 110e of the cover 110, thereby restricting the movement of the release member in the G direction, which in turn restricts the movement of the limiting member 113, which moves integrally with the release member 114, in the direction of arrow G. At this time, as Figure 9 As shown in part (b), the restrained rib 109c of the device side baffle 109 is held in a rotationally restricted state by the first restraining surface 110c and the second restraining surface 113c. At this time, the position (region) of the release member 114 in the rotational direction about the rotation axis B is the rise-restricted position (rise-restricted region). That is, the rise-restricted position is the position (region) of the release member 114 when the rise-restricted surface 114c of the release member 114 overlaps with the rise-restricted surface 110e of the cover 110 when viewed from the direction of the rotation axis B.

[0263] The first step is to overcome the pushing force of the release spring 116 and rotate the release member 114 along the rotation direction D to the rise restriction release position (rise restriction release area) where the rise restriction surface 114c of the release member 114 does not abut against the rise restriction surface 110e of the cover 110.

[0264] Figure 15 Part (a) is along Figure 10 The section cut by line X22-X22 in part (a). Figure 15 Part (a) is a diagram showing the state of performing the second step after the first step. The second step of this embodiment includes rotating the release member 114 in the rotation direction E until at least one of the pair of contact surfaces 114f of the release member 114 abuts against a corresponding one of the pair of second contact surfaces 110b of the cover 110. Figure 15 Part (b) is along Figure 15 The section cut by line X111-X111 in part (a).

[0265] like Figure 15 As shown in part (a), when viewed along the axis of rotation B, the rising restricting surface 114c of the release member 114 and the rising restricting surface 110e of the cover 110 do not overlap each other. Therefore, as Figure 15As shown in part (b), the limiting member 113 can move integrally with the releasing member 114 in the direction of arrow G, and the position of the releasing member 114 in the rotational direction about the rotation axis B is the lifting limiting release position. That is, when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis B, the lifting limiting release position is the position of the releasing member 114 when the lifting-limited surface 114c of the releasing member 114 does not overlap with the lifting limiting surface 110e of the cover 110. As long as the lifting-limited surface 114c of the releasing member 114 does not overlap with the lifting limiting surface 110e of the cover 110 when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis B, the amount of rotation of the releasing member 114 in the rotational direction D in the first step is sufficient.

[0266] The method for releasing the rotation restriction of the equipment side baffle 109 is a first step and a second step following the first step. The first step is to rotate the release member 114 from the upward restriction position to the upward restriction release position along the rotation direction D. The second step is to move the release member and the restriction member 113 upward together while the release member 114 is in the upward restriction release position, so that the restriction member 113 moves from the restriction position to the restriction release position. The second step may or may not include rotating the release member 114 along the rotation direction E until the contact surface 114f of the release member 114 abuts against the second contacted surface 110b of the cover 110.

[0267] (Toner packet)

[0268] refer to Figure 16 and 17 The basic structure of toner packet 100 will be described. Figure 16 Part (a) is a front view of the toner bag 100 with the side baffle 103 in the closed position. Figure 16 Part (b) is a front view of the toner bag 100 with the side baffle 103 in the open position. Figure 17 This is an exploded perspective view of toner packet 100.

[0269] The toner package 100 includes a container 101 (first container) for holding the toner, a nozzle 102 (nozzle, tube, valve, discharge), and a package side baffle 103 (container baffle, rotatable member). Figure 16 As shown, the receiving portion 101 is disposed on a first end side in the first direction D1, and the nozzle 102 and the bag-side baffle 103 are disposed on a second end side opposite to the first end in the first direction. The receiving portion 101 is a bag formed from a flexible polypropylene sheet through bag processing. The receiving portion 101 is not limited to a bag, but can be a resin bottle or a container made of paper or vinyl resin material.

[0270] On the side surface 102c (first outer surface) of the nozzle 102 extending along the first direction D1, a discharge opening 102a (nozzle opening, first opening) configured to be in fluid communication with the interior of the receiving portion 101 is provided. The toner stored in the receiving portion 101 is discharged to the outside of the toner package 100 through the discharge opening 102a. The nozzle 102 can be integrally constructed with the receiving portion 101. Furthermore, a seal can be provided between the receiving portion 101 and the discharge opening 102a of the nozzle 102, so that the receiving portion 101 and the discharge opening 102a can be in fluid communication with each other when the seal is removed.

[0271] A side baffle 103 (rotatable member) is disposed on the outer side of the side surface 102c of the nozzle 102. The side baffle 103 is mounted to rotate about a rotation axis A (first rotation axis) extending along the first direction D1, and as... Figure 17 As shown, the side baffle 103 is provided with an opening 103a (rotatable member opening, first baffle opening). The side baffle 103 is disposed outside the side surface 102c in the radial direction r of an imaginary circle VC centered on the rotation axis A. The side surface 102c of the nozzle 102 is a curved surface that protrudes outward in the radial direction r of the imaginary circle VC centered on the rotation axis A. The inner surface of the side baffle 103 (the surface facing the side surface 102c) is a curved surface along the side surface 102c of the nozzle 102, and a generally rectangular side seal 105 is mounted thereon. The side surface 102c of the nozzle 102 is also a surface that extends along the rotation axis A.

[0272] like Figure 16 As shown, the side baffle 103 is configured to rotate about the axis of rotation A between a closed position where the side seal 105 closes the discharge opening 102a of the nozzle 102 and an open position where the discharge opening 102a is open. When the side baffle 103 is in the open position, the discharge opening 102a of the nozzle 102 is exposed through the opening 103a.

[0273] Figure 16 Part (a) and Figure 16 Part (b) shows the bag side baffle 103 in the closed and open positions, respectively. Figure 16 As shown in part (a), when the side baffle 103 in the closed position rotates about the rotation axis A in the direction of arrow K (first rotation direction), the side baffle 103 becomes in the closed position. Figure 16 The open position is shown in part (b). Conversely, when the side baffle 103 is rotated from the open position in the direction of arrow L (second rotation direction), it becomes the closed position. During the rotation operation of the side baffle 103, the side baffle 103 rubs against the side surface 102c of the nozzle 102 through the side seal 105.

[0274] refer to Figures 18 to 21 The specific structure of the nozzle 102 and the side baffle 103 will be described. Arrow N indicates the direction from the receiving part 101 toward the nozzle 102, and arrow U is in the opposite direction. The directions of arrow N and arrow U are parallel to the axis of rotation A.

[0275] Figure 18 Part (a) is an enlarged view of the vicinity of nozzle 102 when the side baffle 103 is in the closed position. Figure 18 Part (b) is along Figure 18 The view of toner packet 100 viewed in the direction of arrow U in part (a). Figure 19 Part (a) is an enlarged view of the vicinity of nozzle 102 when the side baffle 103 is in the open position. Figure 19 Part (b) is along Figure 19 The bottom view of toner packet 100 as seen in the direction of arrow U in part (a). Figure 20 From and Figure 18 A view of the area near nozzle 102 observed from the opposite side of the side being observed. Figure 21 This is a view of the vicinity of the nozzle 102 as observed along the direction parallel to surfaces 102d1 and 102d2 of the nozzle 102 (perpendicular to the axis of rotation A).

[0276] like Figure 18 Part (a) and Figure 18 As shown in part (b), the nozzle 102 is provided with a positioning portion 102d, which has a surface 102d1 (first nozzle surface, first facing surface) and a surface 102d2 (second nozzle surface, second facing surface), which are arranged facing each other in a space between them in the direction of arrow R (second direction D2), and they extend in a direction perpendicular to the R direction. Figure 18 As shown in part (b), in this embodiment, surfaces 102d1 and 102d2 extend in a direction perpendicular to the direction of arrow R and are parallel to each other. That is, the direction of arrow R is the normal direction of surfaces 102d1 and 102d2. When the toner packet 100 is mounted on the mounting part 106, the positioning part 102d and the positioning part 107a of the first frame 107 ( Figure 3 The part (a) is joined. Thus, the position of the nozzle 102 relative to the first frame 107 (base frame 2) in the direction of arrow R is determined. Thus, the position of the nozzle 102 relative to the first frame 107 in the rotational direction about the rotation axis A is also determined. Figure 18In part (b), a straight line CL1 (first imaginary line) that passes through the center in the R direction between surfaces 102d1 and 102d2 and extends in a direction perpendicular to the arrow R is in phase with CL2 (second imaginary line) that passes through the center of the rotation axis A and the discharge opening 102a, rotating by approximately 90°. That is, straight lines CL1 and CL2 are perpendicular to each other.

[0277] In addition, such as Figure 18 and 21 As shown, in the direction of the rotation axis A, surfaces 102d1 and 102d2 are respectively provided on the downstream side of the N direction with surfaces 102e1 and 102e2. Figure 18 As shown in part (b), surfaces 102e1 and 102e2 extend in the radial direction r of an imaginary circle VC centered on the axis of rotation A.

[0278] exist Figure 21 In this design, a side surface 102e3 (second outer surface) is provided between surfaces 102d1 and 102d2 and between surfaces 102e1 and 102e2 along the direction of arrow R. The side surface 102e3 is recessed inward in the radial direction r relative to the side surface 102c. Surfaces 102d1, 102d2, 102e3, 102e1, 102e2, and 102e3 form a recess 102e (nozzle recess).

[0279] Surfaces 102d1 and 102d2 need not be parallel as in this embodiment. Surfaces 102d1 and 102d2 may extend in the radial direction r of an imaginary circle VC centered on the axis of rotation A.

[0280] In addition, such as Figure 18 As shown, when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the rotation axis A (first direction D1), an opening 103a (rotatable member opening) is formed on the side surface 103d (outer surface of the first rotatable member) of the side baffle 103. Figure 18 In part (a), when the side baffle 103 is in the closed position, at least a portion of the recess 102e of the nozzle 102 is exposed through the opening 103a. Thus, when the toner bag 100 is mounted on the mounting part 106 with the side baffle 103 closed, the recess 102e (surfaces 102d1 and 102d2) engages with the positioning part 107a.

[0281] In addition, such as Figure 18As shown in part (b), when viewed along the direction of the rotation axis A (first direction D), when the side baffle 103 is in the closed position, the driven transmission part 103e (rotatable member recess) is provided on the side opposite to the recess 102e of the nozzle 102 (opening 103a of the side baffle 103) across the rotation axis A. Surfaces 103b1 and 103b2 of the driven transmission part 103e both extend in a direction perpendicular to the direction of arrow R. Figure 20 This is an enlarged perspective view of the area near the side baffle 103, viewed from the side where the driven transmission section 103e is provided. Between surfaces 103b1 and 103b2 is a side surface 103b3 (the outer surface of the second rotatable member) that is recessed inward in the radial direction r beyond the side surface 103d. The driven transmission section 103e includes surface 103b1, surface 103b2, and side surface 103b3.

[0282] When the side baffle 103 is from Figure 18 When the closed position is rotated in the direction of arrow K, the side baffle 103 is in the open position, and the discharge opening 102a of the nozzle 102 is exposed through the opening 103a of the side baffle 103, as shown. Figure 19 As shown.

[0283] In addition, such as Figure 18 and 20 As shown, the package side baffle 103 is provided with a radial positioning portion 103f that protrudes outward in the radial direction r beyond the side surface 103d. The radial positioning portion 103f is provided on the upstream side of the package side baffle 103 in the N direction along the rotation axis A. The radial positioning portion 103f is provided at each of three spaced positions in the rotation direction of the package side baffle 103 (the circumferential direction of the imaginary circle VC). This structure ensures that when the toner package 100 is mounted on the mounting part 106, the radial positioning portion 103f of the package side baffle 10 abuts against the inner circumferential surface 109h of the equipment side baffle 109, thereby determining the position of the toner package 100 in the radial direction r.

[0284] In this embodiment, the nozzle 102 is a component provided with a channel through which the toner passes and a discharge opening 102a for discharging the toner through the nozzle 102. The cross-sectional area of ​​the channel through which the toner passes in the nozzle 102 can decrease, increase, or remain uniform as it faces the discharge opening 102a. The cross-sectional area and length of the channel of the nozzle 102 can be appropriately varied according to the toner discharge characteristics, etc., and are therefore not limited. Furthermore, the discharge opening 102a of the nozzle 102 does not necessarily have to be the downstream opening from which the toner is discharged from the toner package 100. The toner discharged from the discharge opening 102a of the nozzle 102 can be discharged to the outside of the toner package 100 after passing through a channel of a component different from the nozzle 102.

[0285] The side baffle 103 may be a rotatable member including a driven transmission part 103e, and always keeps the discharge opening 102a of the nozzle 102 open regardless of the rotation position. In this case, the structure may be such that the discharge opening 102a of the nozzle 102 is sealed by a seal when the toner bag 100 is not installed on the mounting part 106, and the seal is removed by either an installation operation to install the toner bag 100 onto the mounting part 106 or after the toner bag 100 is installed. Alternatively, the toner bag 100 may not be equipped with the side baffle 103.

[0286] (Removal of restrictions on toner packets)

[0287] refer to Figures 16 to 21 The description will cover the restriction removal section 104. For example... Figure 16 As shown, the toner cartridge 100 is oriented such that the second end side (nozzle 102 side) of the toner cartridge 100 is lower than the first end side (toner receiving side). Alternatively, the toner cartridge 100 is oriented such that at least a portion of the nozzle 102 is located below the receiving portion 101, and the rotation axis A is in the vertical direction. This orientation is for mounting on the mounting portion 106 of the image forming apparatus 1. At this time, in Figure 18 Part (a) and Figure 19 In part (a), arrow N points downwards and arrow U points upwards.

[0288] The nozzle 102 is provided with a protrusion 102b (protrusion, joint) that protrudes (bulges out) beyond the end surface 103c in the direction of arrow N (downward) of the side baffle 103. For example... Figure 18 As shown in part (a), the protrusion 102b is a cylindrical portion (including the cylindrical part) centered on the rotation axis A. The protrusion 102b has a protrusion end surface 102b2 as its lower end surface. The protrusion end surface 102b2 is provided with a hole formed by an inner circumferential surface 102b1 (inner circumferential guide surface) centered on the rotation axis A. The protrusion 102b protrudes downward beyond the end surface 103c of the side baffle 103, which is located below the discharge opening 102a. Furthermore, as... Figure 17 As shown, the protrusion 102b protrudes downward beyond the lower end surface 102j of the nozzle 102. In this embodiment, the end surface 103c of the side baffle 103 and the end surface 102j of the nozzle 102 are end surfaces perpendicular to the rotation axis A, but this structure is not limited to this. These surfaces can be any surface extending in a direction intersecting the rotation axis A when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis A.

[0289] The outer peripheral surface 102b3 of the protrusion 102b is provided with a restriction release portion 104 including a first restriction release portion 104a (first protrusion) and a second restriction release portion 104b (second protrusion). The first restriction release portion 104a and the second restriction release portion 104b have shapes that are symmetrical about the rotation axis A. That is, as shown... Figure 20 As shown, the second restriction release part 104b is located on the opposite side of the first restriction release part 104A in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis A. In other words, the second restriction release part 104b has a shape that is 180 degrees rotationally symmetrical with respect to the rotation axis A to the first restriction release part 104a.

[0290] The first restriction release part 104a includes a first inclined surface 104a1 (a first engaging surface, a downward surface, a downward guiding surface, a downward force-applying surface, and a downward pushing surface) and a second inclined surface 104a2 (a second engaging surface, an upward surface, and an upward guiding surface). The first inclined surface 104a1 is located below the second inclined surface 104a2 and overlaps with the second inclined surface 104a2 when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis A. Figure 18 As shown in part (a), the first inclined surface 104a1 is a surface that extends in the direction of arrow U (upward) as it travels along the rotation direction K (predetermined rotation direction, first rotation direction, first circumferential direction of imaginary circle VC) about the rotation axis A and faces the direction of arrow N (downward).

[0291] On the other hand, the second inclined surface 104a2 is a surface that extends in the direction of arrow N (downward) as it travels along the rotational direction K about the rotational axis A, and faces the direction of arrow U (upward). In other words, the second inclined surface 104a2 is a surface that extends in the direction of arrow U as it travels along the rotational direction L (the second rotational direction, the second circumferential direction of the imaginary circle VC) about the rotational axis A, and faces the direction of arrow U. The cavity 104a3 is disposed above (directly above) the second inclined surface 104a2.

[0292] The downstream ends of the first inclined plane 104a1 and the second inclined plane 104a2 in the rotation direction K are continuous with each other. That is, the downstream ends of the first inclined plane 104a1 and the second inclined plane 104a2 in the rotation direction K are at the same position in the rotation direction D. In other words, the downstream ends of the first inclined plane 104a1 and the second inclined plane 104a2 are at an overlapping position when viewed along the rotation axis A.

[0293] In other words, it has a connecting portion that connects the downstream end of the first inclined surface 104a1 in the rotation direction K and the upstream end of the second inclined surface 104a2 in the rotation direction L.

[0294] like Figure 21 As shown, when viewed along a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation A (first direction D1), the first inclined plane 104a1 extends upward (arrow U direction) as it travels along the direction of arrow J (predetermined direction) perpendicular to the axis of rotation A. The second inclined plane 104a2 extends downward (arrow N direction) as it travels along the direction of arrow J (predetermined direction) perpendicular to the axis of rotation A.

[0295] The ridge line 104a5 of the first inclined surface 104a1 extends in the direction of arrow J perpendicular to the axis of rotation A and then in the direction of arrow U. The ridge line 104a4 of the second inclined surface 104a2 also extends in the direction of arrow J perpendicular to the axis of rotation A and then in the direction of arrow N. The ridge lines described here are the boundary lines between the surfaces. Ridge line 104a5 is the boundary line between the first inclined surface 104a1 and the outer peripheral surface of the first restraint release portion 104a. Ridge line 104a4 is the boundary line between the second inclined surface 104a2 and the outer peripheral surface of the first restraint release portion 104a.

[0296] like Figure 20 As shown, the second restriction release part 104b has a first inclined surface 104b1 (downward surface) and a second inclined surface 104b2 (upward surface). A cavity 104b3 is disposed above the second inclined surface 104b2. The first inclined surface 104b1, the second inclined surface 104b2, and the cavity 104b3 have the same structure as the first inclined surface 104a1, the second inclined surface 104a2, and the cavity 104a3 of the first restriction release part 104a, respectively, and therefore their description is omitted.

[0297] Figure 22 It is along Figure 21 A cross-sectional view of the protrusion 102b cut off by line X33-X33. Figure 22 The second inclined surface 104a2 of the first restriction release portion 104a and the second inclined surface 104b2 of the second restriction release portion 104b are shown when viewed from above. Figure 22 In this context, it can be understood that both the second inclined plane 104a2 and the second inclined plane 104b2 extend along the rotation direction of the side baffle 103 (the circumferential direction of the imaginary circle VC centered on the rotation axis A).

[0298] In addition, such as Figure 21 As shown, arrow J is parallel to arrow R (the second direction), which is the normal direction of surfaces 102d1 and 102d2. Furthermore, in... Figure 18 In part (b), the straight line Q passing through the first restriction release part 104a and the second restriction release part 104b extends in a direction that intersects with the direction of the arrow R.

[0299] like Figure 21 As shown, in the direction of arrow R, the positions of the first restriction release portion 104a and the second restriction release portion 104b are located between the positions of surface 102d1 and surface 102d2 of the positioned portion 102d. That is, when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis A (arrow R direction), the positions of the first inclined surface 104a1 and the second inclined surface 104a2 are both located between the positions of surface 102d1 and surface 102d2 in the direction of arrow R. When viewed in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis A (arrow R direction), the positions of the first restriction release portion 104a and the second restriction release portion 104b overlap with the position of the recess 102e in the direction of arrow R.

[0300] Ideally, the inclination angles of the first inclined surface 104a1 and the second inclined surface 104a2 relative to the rotation axis A should be within the range of 45° ± 15°. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the length of the first inclined surface 104a1 in the direction of the rotation axis A is approximately 2 mm, and the length of the second inclined surface 104a2 is approximately 3 mm, with the length of the second inclined surface 104a2 being greater than the length of the first inclined surface 104a1.

[0301] The first inclined surface 104a1, the second inclined surface 104a2, and the cavity 104a3 are exposed to the outside of the toner bag 100, allowing access to the rotation restriction mechanism 112 of the mounting portion 106. Furthermore, the protrusion 102b does not necessarily need to be provided on the nozzle 102.

[0302] (Install the toner packet to the mounting section)

[0303] refer to Figures 23 to 29 The mechanism described herein is to release the rotation restriction on the device side baffle 109 by the aforementioned rotation restriction mechanism 112 by installing the toner packet 100 on the mounting part 106.

[0304] Figure 23 Part (a) is a perspective view of the toner pack 100 and the mounting section 106 when the toner pack 100 is being mounted on the mounting section 106. Figure 23 Part (b) is from with Figure 23 Part (a) Perspective view of toner pack 100 and mounting section 106 when viewed from different viewpoints.

[0305] Figure 24 It is from the 100-pigment pack of toner Figure 23 A sectional view taken along a line parallel to the axis of rotation A (axis of rotation B) while the state is further moved along the installation direction. Figure 25 Part (a) is along Figure 24 The sectional view taken by line X4-X4 in the diagram. Figure 25 Part (b) is along Figure 24The sectional view taken by line X5-X5 in the diagram. Figure 26 Part (a) is along Figure 24 The sectional view taken by line X6-X6 in the diagram. Figure 26 Part (a) to Figure 26 Part (d) is a cross-sectional view showing the process of mounting the toner packet 100 onto the mounting section 106. Figure 27 Part (a) is along Figure 26 The sectional view taken by line X7-X7 in part (d). Figure 27 Part (b) is along Figure 27 The sectional view taken by line X8-X8 in part (a).

[0306] exist Figure 24 , Figure 25 ,and Figure 27 In section (b), for better illustration, the cross-sections of the side baffle 103 and the cover 110 are shaded. Furthermore, in Figure 26 The side baffle 103, the restraining member 113, and the release member 114 are shown in a side view, and other members besides them are shown in a sectional view. Furthermore, in Figure 27 In the illustration, the cross-sections of cover 110, limiting member 113, and release member 114 are shaded for better understanding.

[0307] like Figure 23 As shown, the toner bag 100, with its side baffle 103 in the closed position, moves along the mounting direction M relative to the mounting portion 106, where the device side baffle 109 is in the closed position. At this time, when viewed along the mounting direction M, the side baffle 103 is positioned in the rotational direction to align the position of the recess 102e of the nozzle 102 (the opening 103a of the side baffle 103) with the position of the positioning portion 107a of the first frame 107. Simultaneously, the side baffle 103 is positioned in the rotational direction to align the position of the driven transmission portion 103e of the side baffle 103 with the position of the drive transmission portion 108a of the operating lever 108 in the rotational direction of the side baffle 103.

[0308] After the above positioning, the toner packet 100 is moved along the installation direction M and installed onto the mounting part 106, and then as follows: Figure 24 As shown, the inner circumferential surface 102b1 of the protrusion 102b of the nozzle 102 is fitted (engaged) around the small-diameter portion 109d2 of the central boss 109d of the equipment side baffle 109. This determines the radial position of the nozzle 102 relative to the equipment side baffle 109 below the nozzle 102 (downstream side in the mounting direction M). The inner circumferential surface 102b1 of the protrusion 102b does not necessarily have to be configured to mate with the central boss 109d, but can be configured not to interfere with the central boss 109d. Figure 25 As shown in part (a), the drive transmission portion 108a (rod protrusion) of the operating lever 108 and the driven transmission portion 103e (rotatable member recess) of the side baffle 103 engage with each other. Meanwhile, as... Figure 25 As shown in part (b), the side surfaces 110f and 110g of the cover 110 become close to the surfaces 102e1 and 102e2 of the forming recess 102e (nozzle recess) of the nozzle 102, respectively. Furthermore, the driven transmission portion 103e (rotatable member recess) of the package side baffle 103 engages with the driven transmission portion 109e (baffle protrusion) of the equipment side baffle 109. Thus, the rotation axis A of the package side baffle 103 and the rotation axis B of the equipment side baffle 109 are substantially coaxial. The operating lever 108, the package side baffle 103, and the equipment side baffle 109 can rotate substantially integrally with respect to the first frame 107 (base frame 2) and the nozzle 102 during rotation about the rotation axis A (rotation axis B). Specifically, when the operating lever 108 rotates, the drive transmission part 108a of the operating lever 108 presses against the surface 103b1 or 103b2 of the package side baffle 103, thereby causing the package side baffle 103 to rotate. Thereafter, the surface 103b1 or surface 103b2 of the package side baffle 103 presses against the driven transmission part 109e of the equipment side baffle 109, causing the equipment side baffle 109 to rotate.

[0309] Here, if the device side baffle 109 rotates from the closed position to the open position due to vibration during the transport of the image forming apparatus 1, the position of the driven transmission part 109e of the device side baffle 109 shifts in the rotational direction. Then, when the toner package 100 is to be installed on the mounting part 106, the following situation occurs: when the driven transmission part 103e of the package side baffle 103 engages with the drive transmission part 108a of the operating lever 108 and the toner package 100 subsequently moves further in the mounting direction M, the driven transmission part 103e cannot engage with the driven transmission part 109e of the device side baffle 109. Therefore, the toner package 100 cannot move relative to the mounting part 106 to the installed position. To prevent this from happening, a rotation limiting mechanism 112 for the device side baffle 109 is provided.

[0310] Here, a mechanism for releasing the rotation restriction mechanism 112 of the mounting part 106 by attaching the toner packet 100 to the mounting part 106 is described. In the following text, the second restriction release part 104b operates in the same manner as the first restriction release part 104a, and therefore its description will be omitted.

[0311] exist Figure 26 In the state of part (a), the first restriction release part 104a of the nozzle 102 and the release claw 114e of the release member 114 are not yet in contact with each other. When the toner bag 100 moves further from this position in the direction of arrow N (installation direction M), as Figure 26 As shown in part (b), the first inclined surface 104a1 of the first restriction release part 104a and the release claw 114e are in contact with each other. When the toner packet 100 moves further from this position in the direction of arrow N, the release member 114 rotates in the rotational direction D by the force F5 received by the release claw 114e from the first inclined surface 104a1, overcoming the torque M2 (pushing force) applied by the release spring 116. At this time, the first inclined surface 104a1 guides the release claw 114e, causing the release member 114 to rotate in the rotational direction D. The release member 114 rotates in the rotational direction D until the release claw 114e passes the downstream end of the first inclined surface 104a1 in the rotational direction D. The rotation of the release member 114 in the rotational direction D is the first step described above. That is, as Figure 15 As shown in part (a), the step is that the rising restricted surface 114c of the raised restricting member causes the release member 114 to rotate in the rotation direction D against the pushing force of the release spring 116 until the rising restricted surface 114c reaches a position that does not contact the rising restricted surface 110e of the cover 110.

[0312] After the first step, release pawl 114e onto the downstream end of the second inclined plane 104a2 in the rotational direction D. In other words, after the first step, release pawl 114e onto the upstream end of the second inclined plane 104a2 in the rotational direction E. At this time, as... Figure 26 As shown in part (c), the release claw 114e contacts the second inclined surface 104a2 of the nozzle 102 via a torque M2 (pushing force) provided by the release spring 116 to receive force F6. Then, through the arrow G direction component F6a of force F6, the release member 114 is moved (guided) along the second inclined surface 104a2 in the arrow G direction (upwards), while simultaneously rotating about the rotation axis A in the rotation direction E. That is, the rotation direction of the release member 114 changes from rotation direction D to rotation direction E at the connection where the downstream end of the first inclined surface 104a1 in the rotation direction D connects to the upstream end of the second inclined surface 104a2 in the rotation direction E. Furthermore, the second inclined surface 104a2 guides the release claw 114e, causing the release member 114 to move upwards. The second inclined surface 104a2 guides the release claw 114e, causing the release member 114 to rotate in the rotation direction E while moving upwards.

[0313] The movement of the release member 114 in the direction of arrow G (upward) and its rotation in the direction of rotation E constitute the second step described above. Here, as mentioned above, in the second step, the restraint member 113 moves together with the release member 114 in the direction of arrow G. Figure 15 As shown in part (a), at least one of the contact surfaces 114f (pair) of the release member 114 is rotated until it contacts a second contact surface 110b of the corresponding cover 110, thereby reaching Figure 26 Part (d) and Figure 27 The installation is complete as shown. Figure 26 As shown in part (d), when the contact surface 114f of the release member abuts against the second contact surface 110b of the cover 110, a portion of the release claw 114e enters the cavity 104a3 located above (directly above) the second inclined surface 104a2.

[0314] As described above, by installing the toner pack 100 on the mounting part 106, the rotation restriction imposed by the rotation restriction mechanism 112 of the equipment side baffle 109 is released via the first and second steps described above.

[0315] When the toner packet 100 is in the installed position, such as Figure 27 As shown, the protruding end surface 102b2 of the protrusion 102b of the nozzle 102 contacts the package contact surface 109g of the equipment side baffle 109. Therefore, the position of the nozzle 102 (toner package 100) relative to the mounting portion 106 in the direction of the rotation axis A (mounting direction M) is determined. Furthermore, the radial positioning portion 103f of the package side baffle 103 ( Figure 18 and 20 The three points of the equipment side baffle 109 and the inner circumferential surface 109h are ( ) Figure 7 Contact. Thus, the positions of the upstream nozzle 102 and the package side baffle 103 (toner package 100) in the radial direction are determined in the installation direction M.

[0316] Figure 27 The X10-X10 sectional view in part (a) and Figure 15 The same as in part (a), therefore its description is omitted. Figure 27 Part (b) (which is) Figure 27 As shown in section (a) X8-X8, the positioning portion 107a of the first frame 107 engages with the positioning portion 102d of the nozzle 102, which has surfaces 102d1 and 102d2. Therefore, the nozzle 102 is positioned relative to the first frame 107 (base frame 2) in the direction of arrow R on surfaces 102d1 and 102d2. Figure 26 As shown, the arrow R is substantially parallel to the trajectory V of the release claw 114e rotating in the rotation direction D when the first restriction release part 104a and the release claw 114e come into contact with each other. This determines the position of the nozzle 102 relative to the first frame 107 in the direction of arrow R, thus further stabilizing the release operation of the rotation restriction on the device side baffle 109.

[0317] Through the aforementioned mechanism, the rotation restriction mechanism 112 of the equipment side baffle 109 is released, allowing the equipment side baffle 109 to rotate from the closed position to the released position. When the pair of contact surfaces 114f abuts against the pair of second contact surfaces 110b, the releasing member 114 rotates violently due to torque M2, producing a slight knocking sound, while the user holding the toner bag 100 feels a reaction. That is, the user can identify that the equipment side baffle 109 has been released by the knocking sound and the reaction. When removing the toner bag 100 from the mounting part 106, the following steps are performed: Figure 26 The opposite process is performed, and the device side baffle 109 is restricted again by the rotation restriction mechanism 112.

[0318] (Lever operation)

[0319] As described above, with the toner pack 100 installed on the mounting part 106, the operating lever 108, the pack side baffle 103, and the equipment side baffle 109 rotate as a unit around the rotation axis A (rotation axis B).

[0320] here, Figure 28 Part (a) is a perspective view of the toner pack 100 viewed from above when the lever 108 is in the closed position. Figure 28 Part (b) is a perspective view of the toner pack 100 viewed from above when the lever 108 is in the open position.

[0321] like Figure 28 As shown, when the toner bag 100 is installed on the mounting part 106, the operating part 108b of the operating lever 108 rotates in the rotation direction D, the equipment side baffle 109 rotates from the closed position to the open position, and the bag side baffle 103 rotates from the closed position to the open position.

[0322] When the side baffle 103 rotates from the closed position to the open position, the frictional force F7 received by the nozzle 102 from the side baffle 103 through the side seal 105 points in the direction of arrow K. Figure 18 Part (a) is shown. This is related to Figure 28The operating lever 108 rotates in the same direction as D. The nozzle 102 receives frictional force F7 and rotates between surfaces 102d1 and 102d2 and the positioning portion 107a of the first frame 107 in the direction of arrow K to increase the amount of rotational engagement clearance (playback). At this time, the rotation direction of the nozzle 102 is such that the second inclined surface 104a2 of the first restriction release portion 104a approaches the release claw 114e of the release member 114 and the second inclined surface 104b2 of the second restriction release portion 104b approaches the release member 114. That is, when the operating lever 108 is rotated to rotate the side baffle 103 from the closed position to the open position, the restriction member 113 moves upward together with the release member 114 (in the direction opposite to the installation direction M). Then, the second restricted surface 113c of the restriction member 113 separates upward from the restricted rib 109c of the equipment side baffle 109, and the margin for releasing the rotation restriction increases. Therefore, the state in which the rotation restriction on the equipment side baffle 109 is released can be maintained more stably.

[0323] Through the above operations, the toner package 100's receiving portion 101 and the toner receiving chamber 36 rotate in fluid communication with each other through the discharge opening 102a, the receiving opening 109a, and the equipment-side opening 117a.

[0324] here, Figure 29 Part (a) is a cross-sectional view of the toner bag 100 and the mounting section 106 when both the equipment side baffle 109 and the bag side baffle 103 are in their respective closed positions. Figure 29 Part (b) is a cross-sectional view of the toner bag 100 and the mounting section 106 when both the equipment side baffle 109 and the bag side baffle 103 are in their respective open positions.

[0325] exist Figure 29 In part (a), the discharge opening 102a of the nozzle 102 is closed by the side baffle 103, the side seal 105, and the equipment side baffle 109, and the toner in the receiving part 101 cannot reach the equipment side opening 117a of the second frame 117. On the other hand, in Figure 29 In part (b), the discharge opening 102a of the nozzle 102 is opened by moving the pack-side baffle 103, the pack-side seal 105, and the device-side baffle 109. Therefore, by the user squeezing the container 101, the toner in the container 101 is squeezed, and the toner in the container 101, along with air, reaches the device-side opening 117a of the second frame 117 through the discharge opening 102a. The toner is then supplied through the device-side opening 117a to the toner receiving chamber 36 of the developer container 32.

[0326] (Variant Example 1)

[0327] In this embodiment 1, a first restriction release portion 104a and a second restriction release portion 104b are provided on the outer peripheral surface 102b3 of the protrusion 102b of the nozzle 102. However, the following structure can be used instead.

[0328] First, such as Figure 30 As shown in part (a), the protrusion 1020b is provided with a restriction release part 1040a corresponding to the first restriction release part 104a of Embodiment 1. However, no part corresponding to the second restriction release part 104b is provided.

[0329] Second, such as Figure 30 As shown in part (b), the protrusion 1021b is provided with a restriction release part 1040b corresponding to the second restriction release part 104b of Embodiment 1. However, no part corresponding to the first restriction release part 104a is provided.

[0330] (Variant Example 2)

[0331] In this embodiment 1, the first restriction release part 104a is provided with a first inclined surface 104a1 and a second inclined surface 104a2, and the second restriction release part 104b has a shape that is rotationally symmetrical about the rotation axis A with respect to the first restriction release part 104a. However, the following structure can be used alternatively.

[0332] First, such as Figure 31 As shown in part (a), although the first restriction release part 1041a is provided with a second inclined surface 1014a2 corresponding to the second inclined surface 104a2 of Embodiment 1, it does not have an inclined surface corresponding to the first inclined surface 104a1 of Embodiment 1. Similarly, although the second restriction release part 1041b has a first inclined surface 1041b1 corresponding to the first inclined surface 104a1 of Embodiment 1, it does not have an inclined surface corresponding to the second inclined surface 104a2 of Embodiment 1.

[0333] Second, such as Figure 31 As shown in part (b), although the first restriction release part 1042a has a first inclined surface 1042a1 corresponding to Embodiment 1, it does not have an inclined surface corresponding to the second inclined surface 104a2 of Embodiment 1. Furthermore, although the second restriction release part 1042b has a second inclined surface 1042b2 corresponding to the second inclined surface 104a2 of Embodiment 1, it does not have an inclined surface corresponding to the first inclined surface 104a1 of Embodiment 1.

[0334] (Variant Example 3)

[0335] In this embodiment 1, the protrusion 102b has a first restriction release portion 104a and a second restriction release portion 104b on the outer peripheral surface 102b3 of the cylindrical portion, and the cylindrical portion has a hole with an inner peripheral surface 102b1 on the end surface 102b2 of the protrusion. However, the following structure can be used instead.

[0336] like Figure 32 As shown, Variant 3 has a protrusion 1023b that does not include the wall surface (corresponding to the wall surface of the outer peripheral surface 102b3) connecting the first restriction release portion 1043a and the second restriction release portion 1043b. The first restriction release portion 1043a is a first protrusion having a first inclined surface 1043a1 and a second inclined surface 1043a2 corresponding to the first inclined surface 104a1 and the second inclined surface 104a2 of Embodiment 1, respectively, and is a downwardly protruding first protrusion. The second restriction release portion 1043b has a first inclined surface 1043b1 and a second inclined surface 1043b2 corresponding to the first inclined surface 104b1 and the second inclined surface 104b2 of Embodiment 1, respectively, and is a downwardly protruding second protrusion. A space is provided between the first restriction release portion 1043a and the second restriction release portion 1043b.

[0337] (Variant Example 4)

[0338] like Figure 33 As shown in part (a), the two cylindrical bosses can be used as the first restriction release part 1044a and the second restriction release part 1044b, respectively. When viewed from the axial direction of the first restriction release part 1044a, as... Figure 33 As shown in part (b), the Y-axis extending in the direction of the rotation axis A (arrow U direction) and the X-axis extending in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis A are defined with the axis of the first restriction release part 1044a as the origin. In the four quadrants separated by the X-axis and Y-axis, the outer peripheral surface of the first restriction release part 1044a in the fourth quadrant is a first inclined surface 1044a1, while the outer peripheral surface of the first restriction release part 1044a in the first quadrant is a second inclined surface 1044a2. The same applies to the second restriction release part 1044b. Therefore, the same effect as in Embodiment 1 can be provided.

[0339] (Variant Example 5)

[0340] like Figure 34 As shown in part (a), a toner packet 1050 in which the nozzle 1025 is bent into an L-shape can be used. The receiving part 1015 has a structure extending in a direction intersecting the axis of rotation A of the packet side baffle 1035.

[0341] In addition, such as Figure 34As shown in part (b), a toner packet 1052 can be suspended downwards using the receiving portion 10151 of the toner packet 1051.

[0342] (Variant Example 6)

[0343] In this embodiment 1, the first restriction release part 104a and the second restriction release part 104b are fixed to the nozzle 102, but they can be movable. In this variant, as... Figure 35 As shown in part (a), the structure is such that when the toner pack 1060 is not mounted on the mounting portion 106 of the image forming apparatus 1, the first restriction release portion 1046a is accommodated inside the outer peripheral surface 1026b3 of the protrusion 1026b (inner peripheral surface 1026b1 side). Furthermore, the structure is such that during the process of mounting the toner pack 1060 onto the mounting portion 106 of the image forming apparatus 1 or through user operation, the first restriction release portion 1046a protrudes outward from the outer peripheral surface 1026b3 of the protrusion 1026b in the radial direction r of the imaginary circle VC.

[0344] As an example of a structure in which the first restriction release portion 1046a protrudes outward in the radial direction r during the process of mounting the toner packet 1060 onto the mounting portion 106 of the image forming apparatus 1, when the central boss 109d of the device side baffle 109 is inserted into the inner peripheral surface 1026b1 of the protrusion 1026b, the first restriction release portion 1046a is pushed by the central boss 109d and protrudes outward in the radial direction beyond the outer peripheral surface 1026b3. The same structure as the first restriction release portion 1046a can be applied to the second restriction release portion 1046b.

[0345] (Variant Example 7)

[0346] The structure can be such that when the toner packet 1070 is not installed on the image forming apparatus 1, the protrusion 1027b does not protrude from the end surface 1037c of the packet side baffle 1037, but during the process of installing the toner packet onto the image forming apparatus 1, the protrusion 1027b protrudes beyond the end surface 1037c in the direction of arrow N. That is, the protrusion 1027b is movable to take the following positions: Figure 36 The protruding position (convex position) shown in part (b) and as shown Figure 36 The retracted position shown in part (a) indicates that in the protruding position, the protrusion extends beyond the end surface 1037c in the direction of arrow N, and in the retracted position, the protrusion retracts from the protruding position along the U direction. Figure 36 The protrusion 1027b can be configured not to protrude from the end surface 1037c in the retracted position. In this case, the user can manually move the protrusion 1027b to the protruding position and the retracted position.

[0347] (Variant Example 8)

[0348] like Figure 37 As shown in part (a), in the state where the toner pack 1080 is not installed on the image forming apparatus 1, the first restriction release part 1048a is a linear rib extending in the direction of the rotation axis A and has only a surface extending in the direction of axis A. The first restriction release part 1048a has a rotation center 1048a3 at a position between one end and the other end in the direction of the rotation axis A. This structure can be such that during or before the process of installing it onto the mounting part 106 of the image forming apparatus 1, the rib is moved (rotated) by the user around the rotation center 1048a3 to provide a first inclined surface 1048a1 corresponding to the first inclined surface 104a1 of Embodiment 1 and a second inclined surface 1048a2 corresponding to the second inclined surface 104a2 of Embodiment 1, as... Figure 37 Part (b) is shown.

[0349] (Variant Example 9)

[0350] In this embodiment 1, the nozzle 102 and the protrusion 102b are formed integrally with each other, but they can also be separate components. That is, as shown in the example... Figure 38 As shown, it can be an installation kit including a toner package 1090 containing toner and an accessory 1090b, and it can be an installation kit for installation onto an image forming mount.

[0351] Except for the absence of a portion corresponding to the protrusion 102b of Example 1, the toner packet 1090 has the same structure as in Example 1, and therefore its description is omitted.

[0352] Attachment 1090b is cylindrical and has an outer peripheral surface 1029a3 centered on a central axis Z. When the central axis Z is oriented vertically (in the direction of gravity), attachment 1090b has a first restriction release part 1049a and a second restriction release part 1049b on the outer peripheral surface 1029a3. The first restriction release part 1049a has an upward-facing surface 1049a2 that faces upward and descends as it ascends in the circumferential direction of the outer peripheral surface 1029a3 (the first circumferential direction KZ of the imaginary circle VCZ centered on the central axis Z). In other words, the upward surface 1049a2 is configured to extend upward and face upward as it ascends along a second circumferential direction LZ, which is the opposite direction to the first circumferential direction KZ of the imaginary circle VCZ. Annex 1090b also has a downward surface 1049a1, which is configured to face downward and extend upward along the circumferential direction (first circumferential direction KZ) of the outer peripheral surface 1029b3. Furthermore, the annex has a connecting portion 1049a23, which connects the upstream end of the upward surface 1049a2 in the second circumferential direction LZ and the downstream end of the downward surface 1049a1 in the first circumferential direction KZ.

[0353] Attachment 1090b can be configured to be mounted on the bottom surface of the nozzle 1029 of the toner pack 1090 (the bottom surface of the toner pack 1090). Alternatively, attachment 1090b can be configured not to be mounted on the toner pack 1090. That is, attachment 1090b is first mounted on the mounting portion 106 of the image forming apparatus 1, thereby releasing the rotation restriction of the apparatus side baffle 109. Then, after mounting attachment 1090b, the toner pack 1090 is mounted on the mounting portion 106. The mechanism by which mounting attachment 1090b on the mounting portion 106 releases the rotation restriction of the apparatus side baffle 109 by the rotation restriction mechanism 112 is the same as the mechanism for mounting the toner pack 100 on the mounting portion 106, therefore its description is omitted.

[0354] Finally, the description will be presented through detailed and alternating repetition, such as... Figure 39 The small, uneven surface formed by the surface parallel or perpendicular to the axis of rotation A is shown. When the envelope S of the uneven surface extends in the same direction as the second inclined plane 104a2 of this basic embodiment or any variant, it can be considered as the first inclined plane 104a1 or the second inclined plane 104a2 of Embodiment 1. This also applies to Embodiment 2 and its variants described below.

[0355] <Example 2>

[0356] Reference Figures 40 to 71The structure of Embodiment 2 will be described below. Points identical to those in the above embodiments will be omitted. Among the elements disclosed in this embodiment, elements corresponding to the components described in Embodiment 1 will be given the same names as the components in Embodiment 1, and only the points that differ from Embodiment 1 will be described.

[0357] (Toner Packaging Installation Department)

[0358] Reference Figures 40 to 45 The structure of the mounting section 206 will be described below. In this embodiment, the mounting section 206 is a unit for mounting the toner packet 220.

[0359] Figure 40 Part (a) is an exploded perspective view of the mounting section 206. Figure 40 Part (b) is from with Figure 40 Part (a) Exploded perspective view of mounting part 206 viewed from different directions. Figure 41 Part (a) and Figure 42 Part (a) shows a perspective view of the appearance of the mounting part 206 when the operating lever 208 is in the closed position, and a view viewed from the mounting direction M (the direction of the rotation axis B). Figure 41 Part (b) and Figure 42 Part (b) shows a perspective view of the appearance of the mounting part 206 when the operating lever 208 is in the open position, and a view viewed along the mounting direction M (the direction of the rotation axis B). Figure 43 This is a perspective view of the mounting section 206 as viewed from the downstream side in the mounting direction M. Figure 44 Part (a) is a perspective view of the equipment side baffle 209 as viewed from the upstream side in the installation direction M. Figure 44 Part (b) is from with Figure 44 Part (a) Perspective view of the device side baffle 209 viewed from different viewpoints. Figure 44 Part (c) is a top view of the device side baffle 209 as viewed from the installation direction M. Figure 45 Part (a) is a perspective view of the cover 210 as viewed from the upstream side in the installation direction M. Figure 45 Part (b) is a perspective view of the cover 210 as viewed from the downstream side in the installation direction M. Figure 45 Part (c) is a top view of cover 210 as seen from the installation direction M. Figure 45 Part (d) is a bottom view of cover 210 as viewed from the installation direction M. Figure 45 Part (e) is a side view of the cover 210 as viewed from a direction perpendicular to the installation direction M.

[0360] Figure 40 and 41The mounting portion 206 shown is provided with a base frame 221 including a first frame 207, a second frame 217, and a cover 210. The cover 210 and the second frame 217 are fixed to the first frame 207. A first filter 218 with a predetermined airflow rate is mounted on the air vent 207c of the first frame 207. Furthermore, a second filter 219 with a predetermined airflow rate is also mounted on the second frame 217. Figure 45 As shown, the cover 210 is provided with a joint 207b with the first frame 207 (see Figure 207). Figure 40 The joined portion 210h of part (b) is such that the cover 210 does not move relative to the first frame 207. The first frame 207, the cover 210, and the second frame 217 may be integral components rather than separate components. Figure 40 and 43 As shown, the second frame 217 is provided with an equipment-side opening 217a (frame opening, receiving opening), and the equipment-side opening 217a is connected to the toner receiving chamber 36 (second receiving part) of the developing apparatus 30 (see...). Figure 1 Part (a)) is in fluid communication. The mounting part 206 and the toner receiving chamber 36 form a toner receiving unit.

[0361] like Figure 41 As shown, the operating lever 208 and the equipment side baffle 209 (second baffle) can rotate relative to the base frame 221 about the rotation axis B (central axis) along the rotation direction D (first rotation direction) and the rotation direction E (second rotation direction). The rotation direction E is opposite to the rotation direction D.

[0362] like Figure 40 As shown in part (a), the first frame 207 is provided with a positioning part 207a. The positioning part 207a protrudes inward from the inner peripheral surface of the first frame 207 centered on the rotation axis B in the radial direction r of an imaginary circle VC centered on the rotation axis B. Additionally, the operating lever 208 is provided with a drive transmission part 208a (lever protrusion) and an operating part 208b. The drive transmission part 208a is provided with a slit 208c. The drive transmission part 208a of the operating lever 208 is a protrusion that protrudes inward from the inner peripheral surface 208d of the operating lever 208 centered on the rotation axis B in the radial direction r of an imaginary circle VC centered on the rotation axis B.

[0363] like Figure 44As shown, the equipment side baffle 209 is a cylindrical component with an open top, a bottom surface 209b, and an inner circumferential surface 209h (radial positioning) centered on the rotation axis B on its side. The bottom surface 209b has a central boss 209d (positioning shaft, shaft portion) and a restrained rib 209c (rotation restraint portion). The equipment side baffle 209 has a receiving opening 209a (second baffle opening, equipment side baffle opening) and a driven transmission portion 209e (pushed portion, baffle protrusion) on its side. The central boss 209d has an upward-facing contact surface 209g (installation direction positioning).

[0364] The central boss 209d is a shaft with the rotation axis B as its central axis, and protrudes above the bottom surface 209B (in a direction opposite to the mounting direction M). For example... Figure 44 As shown in part (c), the restraining rib 209c is disposed outside the central boss 209d in the radial direction r of an imaginary circle VC centered on the axis of rotation B. Figure 44 Part (a) and Figure 44 As shown in part (b), the restraining rib 209c protrudes upward from the bottom surface 209b along the direction of the rotation axis B. Figure 44 As shown in part (c), the driven transmission part 209e is a protrusion that projects inward in the radial direction r of the imaginary circle VC. Furthermore, the driven transmission part 209e is provided on the outside of the restrained rib 209c in the radial direction r of the imaginary circle VC. Figure 41 As shown in part (b), the device-side seal 211 is installed around the receiving opening 209a.

[0365] Here, the device side baffle 209 can move relative to the base frame 221 between a closed position where the receiving opening 209a is closed by the device side seal 211 and the cover 210, and an open position where the receiving opening is not closed by the cover 210 and is open. For example... Figure 41 Part (a) and Figure 42 As shown in part (a), the closed position is such that the receiving opening 209a of the device side baffle 209 and Figure 43 The device-side openings 217a of the second frame 217 shown are not in fluid communication with each other. (As shown...) Figure 41 Part (b) and Figure 42As shown in part (b), the open position is a fluidly connected position in which the receiving opening 209a of the device side baffle 209 and the device side opening 217a of the second frame 217 are in fluid communication with each other. When the device side baffle 209 rotates in the rotation direction D from the closed position (non-connected position) to the open position (connected position), the toner of the developing apparatus 30 can be replenished (supplied) from the toner pack 220 into the receiving chamber 36 via the receiving opening 209a. When the device side baffle 209 rotates in the rotation direction E from the open position to the closed position, toner cannot be supplied from the toner pack 220 into the toner receiving chamber 36 of the developing apparatus 30 via the receiving opening 209a.

[0366] The operating lever 208 and the equipment side baffle 209 are not directly engaged with each other, so the equipment side baffle 209 does not rotate even when the toner pack 220 is not installed.

[0367] (Equipment side baffle rotation restriction mechanism)

[0368] like Figure 40 As shown, the mounting section 206 of the image forming apparatus 1 includes a rotation limiting mechanism 212, which has a limiting member 213, a releasing member 214, a limiting spring 215 and a releasing spring 216.

[0369] Reference Figures 46 to 50 The rotation limiting mechanism 212 will be described. Figure 49 and 50 In order to better illustrate, the cross-sections of the cover 210, the limiting member 213, and the releasing member 214 are shaded.

[0370] It is possible that, even if the toner pack 220 is not installed on the mounting section 206, the device side baffle 209 may rotate from the closed position to the open position by more than a predetermined amount due to impact (vibration) during the transport of the image forming apparatus 1 or user error. If this occurs, it will be difficult for the user to install the toner pack 220 on the mounting section 206 when using the image forming apparatus 1. Details regarding this will be described later. In view of this, the image forming apparatus 1 of this embodiment is provided with a rotation limiting mechanism 212 to limit the rotation of the device side baffle 209 from the closed position to the open position.

[0371] Figure 46 Part (a) is a perspective view of the limiting member 213 as viewed from the upstream side in the installation direction. Figure 46 Part (b) is a perspective view of the limiting member 213 as viewed from the downstream side in the installation direction. Figure 47 Part (a) is a perspective view of the release member 214 as viewed from the upstream side in the installation direction M. Figure 47Part (b) is a top view of the release member 214 as seen from the installation direction M. Figure 47 Part (c) is a perspective view of the release member 214 as viewed from the downstream side in the installation direction M. Figure 47 Part (d) is an enlarged view of the release claw 214e of the release member 214. Figure 48 Part (a) is a perspective view of the unit in which the limiting member 213 and the releasing member 214 are assembled. Figure 48 (b) is a top view of the unit in which the limiting member 213 and the releasing member 214 are assembled, when viewed along the installation direction M.

[0372] Figure 48 Part (c) is along Figure 48 The cross-sectional view taken from line X214-X214 in part (b). Figure 48 Part (d) is a bottom view of the unit in which the limiting member 213 and the releasing member 214 are assembled, when viewed along the installation direction M. Figure 49 It is along Figure 42 The sectional view taken along line X201-X201 in part (a) is a sectional view taken along a line parallel to the rotation axis B with the rotation of the equipment side baffle 209 from the closed position to the open position restricted by the rotation restriction mechanism 212. Figure 50 Part (a) is along Figure 49 The sectional view taken by line X202-X202 in the diagram. Figure 50 Part (b) is along Figure 49 The sectional view taken from line X203-X203. Figure 50 Part (c) is along Figure 49 The sectional view taken by line X204-X204.

[0373] like Figure 49 As shown, a limiting member 213, a releasing member 214, a limiting spring 215, and a releasing spring 216 are provided inside the equipment side baffle 209.

[0374] like Figure 46 Part (a) and Figure 46As shown in part (b), the limiting member 213 is an annular member with a central hole 213i centered on the rotation axis B. The limiting member 213 functions to limit the rotation of the device side baffle 209, as will be described below. The limiting member has a lower surface 213a, a first contact surface 213b, a second contact surface 213h, a second limiting surface 213c (rotation limiting portion), a contacted surface 213e, a pair of locked surfaces 213f, a release spring engagement portion 213g, and a limiting spring engagement portion 213k. The first contact surface 213b and the second contact surface 213h are the downstream end surfaces of the device side baffle 209 in the rotation direction D. The second limiting surface 213c is the downstream end surface of the device side baffle 209 in the rotation direction E.

[0375] The locked surface 213f is the upstream end surface (upper surface) in the mounting direction M. The lower surface 213a is the downstream end surface (bottom surface) in the mounting direction M. The release spring engagement 213g is a protrusion in the rotational direction E. The limiting spring engagement 213k is a recess in the mounting direction M.

[0376] like Figure 47 Part (a) and Figure 47 As shown in part (b), the release member 214 (guided member, engaged member) includes a pair of release claws 214e (first engaging claw and second engaging claw, a pair of engaged portions), which have a shape that is 180 degrees rotationally symmetrical about the rotation axis B. The release claws 214e extend in a direction opposite to the mounting direction M (upward).

[0377] like Figure 47 As shown in part (d), the release claw 214e is provided with a first guided portion 214eA (first contact portion, first engagement portion) and a second guided portion 214eB (second contact portion, second engagement portion). Figure 47 Part (a) and Figure 47 As shown in part (b), the second guided portion 214eB is disposed in the radial direction r of the imaginary circle VC at a position further away from the axis of rotation B than the first guided portion 214eA and located below the first guided portion in the direction of the axis of rotation B.

[0378] like Figure 47 As shown in part (d), the first guided portion 214eA has a first guided surface 214e1 and a contact surface 214f. The second guided portion 214eB has a contact surface 214a, a second guided surface 214e2 (the first mating surface), and a third guided surface 214e3 (the second mating surface).

[0379] like Figure 47As shown in part (b), contact surfaces 214f ​​and 214a are the downstream end surfaces of the release claw 214e in the rotational direction E about the axis of rotation B, and they are located at the same position in the circumferential direction of the imaginary circle VC. Contact surface 214a is located outside of contact surface 214f ​​in the radial direction r of the imaginary circle VC centered on the axis of rotation B.

[0380] The first guided surface 214e1 is located upstream of the contact surface 214f ​​in the mounting direction M. In other words, the first guided surface 214e1 is above any one of the contact surface 214f, the second guided surface 214e2, and the third guided surface 214e3. The second guided surface 214e2 is an upward-facing surface. The second guided surface 214e2 is located upstream of the contact surface 214a in the mounting direction M. In other words, the second guided surface 214e2 is positioned above the contact surface 214a. The third guided surface 214e3 is a downward-facing surface. The third guided surface 214e3 is located downstream of the contact surface 214a in the mounting direction M. In other words, the third guided surface 214e3 is located below the contact surface 214a. That is, the second guided surface 214e2 is above the third guided surface 214e3. The contact surface 214a is located between the second guided surface 214e2 and the third guided surface 214e3 in the installation direction (direction of the rotation axis B, direction of gravity).

[0381] The release member 214 also includes a pair of rising restricted surfaces 214c (rising restricted portion), a pair of locking surfaces 214d, a release spring engagement portion 214g, and a contact surface 214b.

[0382] The pair of rising restricted surfaces 214c and the pair of locking surfaces 214d are arranged symmetrically with respect to the axis of rotation B. Figure 47 Part (a) to Figure 47 As shown in part (c), the rising restricted surface 214c protrudes outward in the radial direction r of the imaginary circle VC beyond the outer peripheral surface of the release member 214 centered on the axis of rotation B. The locking surface 214d is a surface that protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the release member 214 in the direction opposite to the mounting direction M and faces the mounting direction M (the downward-facing surface). The release spring engagement 214g is a protrusion that protrudes in the rotation direction D. The contact surface 214b is the upward-facing surface.

[0383] With the restricting member 213 and the releasing member 214 assembled, such as Figure 48 Part (a) and Figure 48As shown in part (c), the locked surface 213f of the limiting member 213 is located directly below and faces the locking surface 214d of the releasing member 214. Therefore, this structure ensures that even if an attempt is made to move the limiting member 213 upwards, the limiting member cannot move because its locked surface 213f is locked to the locking surface 214d of the releasing member 214, unless the releasing member 214 moves upwards. Figure 48 As shown in part (c), the contact surface 214b of the release member 214 faces the contacted surface 213e of the restraining member 213. Therefore, when the release member 214 moves upward, the contact surface 214b contacts the contacted surface 213e of the restraining member 213, and the release member 214 and the restraining member 213 can move upward as a single unit. Furthermore, as... Figure 48 Part (b) and Figure 48 As shown in part (d), a spring 216 is provided between the release spring engagement 213g of the limiting member 213 and the release spring engagement 214g of the releasing member 214. Moreover, the pair of release claws 214e protrude upward beyond the upper surface of the limiting member 213 through the central hole 213i centered on the rotation axis B of the limiting member 213.

[0384] like Figure 45 As shown, the cover 210 includes a base cover portion 210Aa and a wall portion 210Bb extending upward from the base cover portion 210Aa.

[0385] The base cover portion 210Aa includes an upper surface 210i with a central hole 210p (cover opening) centered on the rotation axis B and a pair of eaves 210n, a first contact surface 210a and a second contact surface 210b, a pair of third contact surfaces 210k, a first limiting surface 210c, a pair of rising limiting surfaces 210e, and a limiting spring engagement portion 210m. The wall portion 210Bb is provided with a side surface 210f, a side surface 210g, and the aforementioned engagement portion 210h.

[0386] like Figure 45 Part (b) and Figure 45 As shown in part (d), the first contacted surface 210a and the second contacted surface 210b are downstream end surfaces in the rotational direction E. The third contacted surface 210k is the downstream end surface in the rotational direction D. The eaves 210n are provided upstream of the third contacted surface 210k in the mounting direction M. Figure 45 As shown in part (c), the third contact surface 210k is configured to be covered and not exposed by the eaves 210n when viewed from above along the direction of the rotation axis B. The pair of upward limiting surfaces 210e are surfaces facing the downstream side (downward) in the mounting direction M, and as... Figure 45As shown in part (e), it includes a surface that extends in a manner that travels along the rotational direction D and then toward the mounting direction M (downward). The limiting spring engagement 210m is a cylindrical protrusion that projects along the mounting direction M.

[0387] Here, as Figure 49 As shown, the limiting member 213 and the releasing member 214 are rotatably supported by the large-diameter portion 209d1 of the central boss 209d of the equipment side baffle 209. Additionally, a portion of the rotation limiting mechanism 212 is covered by the upper surface 210i of the cover 210. The central boss 209d is coaxially arranged with the rotation axis B of the equipment side baffle 209. Figure 49 As shown, a limiting spring 215 (second elastic member, second pushing member) is installed between the cover 210 and the limiting member 213. One end and the other end of the limiting spring 215 engage with the limiting spring engagement portion 210m of the cover 210 and the limiting spring engagement portion 213k of the limiting member 213, respectively. Figure 45 Part (b) and Figure 45 As shown in part (d), the limiting spring joint 210m is an annular rib centered on the axis of rotation B and is inserted into the inner diameter region of the limiting spring 215.

[0388] The limiting member 213 is pressed by the pushing force F201 of the limiting spring 215 in the direction of arrow C, which is parallel to the axis of rotation B, and the lower surface 213a (see Figure 46 Part (b) contacts the bottom surface 209b of the equipment side baffle 209. Arrow C points in the mounting direction M (gravity direction) of the toner bag 220. Furthermore, as... Figure 50 , Figure 48 Part (b) and Figure 48 As shown in part (d), in the rotational direction of the equipment side baffle 209, a release spring 216 (first elastic member, first pushing member) is installed between the restraining member 213 and the release member 214. One end and the other end of the release spring 216 engage with the release spring engagement portion 213g of the restraining member 213 and the release spring engagement portion 214g of the release member 214, respectively. Figure 50 As shown in part (b), the limiting member 213 is subjected to a torque M201 acting in the rotational direction D by the pushing force F202 of the release spring 216, and the first contact surface 213b of the limiting member 213 contacts the first contacted surface 210a of the cover 210, or the second contact surface 213h of the limiting member 213 contacts the second contacted surface 210b of the cover 210. Thus, the limiting member 213 is restricted to rotate in the rotational direction D.

[0389] On the other hand, such as Figure 50As shown in part (c), the release member 214 is subjected to a torque M202 acting in the rotational direction E by the pushing force F203 of the release spring 216, and at least one of the pair of contact surfaces 214a contacts a corresponding third contacted surface 210k of the cover 210. Thus, the rotation of the release member 214 in the rotational direction E is restricted, and the position of the release member relative to the cover 210 in the rotational direction E is determined.

[0390] Here, cover 210 is fixed to the first frame 207. Therefore, as Figure 50 As shown in part (a), the limiting rib 209c of the device side baffle 209 is located between the first limiting surface 210c of the cover 210 and the second limiting surface 213c of the limiting member 213. Therefore, the rotation of the device side baffle 209 in the rotational direction D (from the closed position to the open position) is limited by the second limiting surface 213c of the limiting member 213. The rotation of the device side baffle 209 in the rotational direction E (from the open position to the closed position) is limited by the first limiting surface 210c of the cover 210.

[0391] (Method to remove rotation restriction)

[0392] refer to Figures 51 to 54 The method for releasing the rotation restriction mechanism 212 from restricting the rotation of the equipment side baffle 209 will be described. For better illustration, the cross-sections of the cover 210, the restriction member 213, and the release member 214 are shaded.

[0393] Figure 51 Part (a) is along a line parallel to the rotation axis B (and) when the rotation restriction mechanism 212 has released the rotation restriction on the equipment side baffle 209. Figure 49 (The same as the previous one) is a sectional view of the mounting part 206. Figure 51 Part (b) is along Figure 51 A sectional view taken from line X205-X205 of part (a). Figure 51 The state of the mounting section 206 is shown, wherein, for ease of explanation, the rotation restriction of the equipment side baffle 209 when the toner pack 220 is not installed has been lifted.

[0394] From Figure 49 and 50 After the first step of rotating the member 214 along the rotation direction D, the following steps are performed: Figure 49The second step involves moving the release member 214 in the direction of arrow G (upward). In this embodiment, the first and second steps are performed by mounting the toner packet 220 on the mounting portion 106. This will be described after explaining the structure of the toner packet 220. Here, only the structure of the mounting portion 206 will be described. In the second step, the contact surface 214b of the release member 214 contacts the contacted surface 213e of the restraining member 213, and the release member 214 and the restraining member 213 move integrally in the direction of arrow G against the pushing force F201 of the restraining spring 215. Through this second step, the... Figure 51 The image shows the state where the rotation restriction is lifted. Arrow G points in the opposite direction to the mounting direction M of toner packet 220.

[0395] In the state where rotation restriction is lifted, such as Figure 51 As shown in part (b), the second limiting surface 213c of the limiting member 213 retracts upward from the movement trajectory (rotation trajectory) of the limited rib 209c between the closed and open positions of the device side baffle 209. The position of the limiting member 213 is referred to as the limiting release position (release position). Furthermore, the limited rib 209c (device side baffle 209) is movable between the first limiting surface 210c and the third limiting surface 210d of the cover 210. The distance between the first limiting surface 210c and the third limiting surface 210d allows the device side baffle 209 to rotate and move between the closed and open positions. Therefore, the rotational limitation of the device side baffle 209 is released between the closed and open positions. That is, the device side baffle 209 can rotate from the closed position to the open position about the rotation axis B along the rotation direction D. On the other hand, the rotation of the device side baffle 209 from the closed position along the rotation direction E is limited by the first limiting surface 210c of the cover 210. The amount of movement of the release member 214 in the direction of arrow G (upward direction) is sufficient, as long as the amount of movement is greater than the amount required to reach the position where the second limiting surface 213c of the limiting member 213, which moves integrally with the release member 214, does not overlap with the limiting rib 209c of the equipment side baffle 209 in the direction of the rotation axis B.

[0396] Here, the rotation limiting mechanism 212 is configured such that when the rotation limiting mechanism 212 is started in the second step without performing the operation of the first step, the rotation limitation of the equipment side baffle 209 is not released.

[0397] Figure 52 Part (a) is Figure 50 Part (a) is the view taken along the direction of arrow G. Figure 52 Part (b) is along Figure 52 A sectional view taken from line X206-X206 in part (a). Figure 52Part (c) shows the limiting member from Figure 52 Part (a) and Figure 52 The state of part (b) is the state in which it moves in the direction of arrow G. For better illustration, only the cover 210, the limiting member 213, the releasing member 214, the limiting spring 215, and the releasing spring 216 are shown, but the releasing member 214 is not shown in cross-section.

[0398] like Figure 52 Part (a) Figure 52 Part (b) Figure 45 Part (b) and Figure 45 As shown in part (d), the cover 210 is provided with a rising limiting surface 210e (rising limiting portion), and the release member 214 is provided with a rising restricted surface 214c (rising restricted portion). When the limiting member 213 moves from this state in the direction of arrow G without rotating in the rotation direction D, the locked surface 213f of the limiting member 213 contacts the locking surface 214d of the release member 214. The same structure is also provided on the opposite side about the rotation axis B, and the limiting member 213 and the release member 214 move integrally in the direction of arrow G (upward). As a result, as Figure 52 As shown in part (c), the rising restricted surface 214c of the release member 214 contacts the rising restricted surface 210e of the cover 210 to restrict the movement of the release member 214 in the direction of arrow G, and thus the restricting member 213, which moves integrally with the release member 214, is also restricted from moving in the direction of arrow G. Because the amount of movement of the restricting member 213 in the direction of arrow G is insufficient, the restricted rib 209c of the device side baffle 209 is held in a rotationally restricted state by the first restricting surface 210c and the second restricting surface 213c, as... Figure 50 As shown in part (a). At this time, the position (region) of the release member 214 in the rotational direction about the rotation axis B is the rise-limiting position (rise-limiting region). That is, the rise-limiting position is the position of the release member 214 when the rise-limiting surface 214c of the release member 214 overlaps with the rise-limiting surface 210e of the cover 110 when viewed in the direction along the rotation axis B. In addition, as Figure 52As shown in part (c), the rising limiting surface 210e and the rising restricted surface 214c are inclined such that the force F204 acting on the rising restricted surface 214c from the rising limiting surface 210e has a component in the direction of arrow H. The rising limiting surface 210e and the rising restricted surface 214c are inclined downward toward the downstream side in the rotation direction D. The arrow H component of the force F204 exerts a torque M203 in the rotation direction E on the release member 214. Thus, even if the limiting member 213 tends to move in the direction of arrow G (upward) due to the vertical vibration of the image forming apparatus 1 during transport, the release member 214 does not easily rotate in the rotation direction D, and therefore the restriction of the cover 210 in the direction of arrow G is not released.

[0399] Next, refer to Figure 52 and 53 The process of releasing the rotational restriction of the device side baffle 209 through the first and second steps will be described. The first step is to overcome the torque M202 of the release spring 216 and rotate the release member 214 in the rotation direction D until the rising restricted surface 214c of the release member 214 disengages from the rising restricted surface 210e of the cover 210.

[0400] Figure 53 Part (a) shows from Figure 52 The state in part (a) has already gone through the state of the first step. Figure 53 Part (b) is along Figure 53 A sectional view taken from line X207-X207 in part (a). Figure 53 Part (c) shows from Figure 53 The state in part (b) has already gone through the state of the second step. Figure 54 Part (a) shows the release member 214 from Figure 53 Part (a) is in a state where it rotates further along the direction of rotation D. Figure 54 Part (b) is along Figure 54 A sectional view taken along line X208-X208 in part (a). Figure 52 Similarly, to better illustrate, Figure 53 and 54 Only the cover 210, the limiting member 213, the releasing member 214, the limiting spring 215, and the releasing spring 216 are shown, while the releasing member 214 is not shown in cross-section.

[0401] like Figure 53 As shown in part (a), when viewed along the direction of the rotation axis B, the rising restricting surface 214c of the release member 214 and the rising restricting surface 210e of the cover 210 do not overlap each other. Therefore, as Figure 53As shown in part (b), the limiting member 213 can move integrally with the releasing member 214 in the direction of arrow G. At this time, the position (region) of the releasing member 214 in the rotational direction about the rotation axis B is the lifting limit release position (lifting limit release region). That is, the lifting limit release position is the position (region) of the releasing member 214 when viewed in the direction of rotation axis B, where the lifting-limited surface 214c of the releasing member 214 does not overlap with the lifting-limiting surface 210e of the cover 210. The amount of rotation of the releasing member 214 in the rotational direction D in the first step is sufficient, as long as this amount of rotation is greater than the amount that makes the lifting-limited surface 214c of the releasing member 214 not coincide with the lifting-limiting surface 210e of the cover 210 when viewed in the direction of rotation axis B.

[0402] The method for releasing the rotation restriction of the equipment side baffle 209 includes a first step and a second step following the first step. The first step is to rotate the release member 214 from the rising restriction position to the rising restriction release position along the rotation direction D. The second step is to move the release member and the restriction member 213 upward together while the release member 214 is in the rising restriction release position, so that the restriction member 213 moves from the restriction position to the restriction release position. The second step in this embodiment may include rotating the release member 214 along the rotation direction D or the rotation direction E. For example, it may be as follows: Figure 54 As shown, in the first step, the release component 214 rotates along the rotation direction D by a ratio Figure 53 Part (a) is more, and in the second step, release member 214 moves in the direction of arrow G and rotates in the direction of rotation E.

[0403] (Toner packet)

[0404] Reference Figure 55 and 56 This will describe the overall structure of toner packet 220. Figure 55 Part (b) is a front view of the toner bag 220 when the bag side baffle 203 is in the closed position. Figure 55 Part (d) is a front view of the toner bag 220 when the side baffle 203 is in the open position. Figure 55 Part (a) and part (c) of 55 are respectively Figure 55 Left and right views of toner packet 220 in part (b). Figure 56 This is an exploded perspective view of toner packet 220. Arrows N and U are parallel to the axis of rotation A. When toner packet 220 is in the mounted position, arrow N points vertically downwards (direction of gravity), and arrow U points vertically upwards.

[0405] The toner package 220 includes a container 201 (first container) for holding the toner, a nozzle 202 (discharge section, nozzle portion, pipe, tube, valve), and a package side baffle 203 (container baffle, rotatable component). Figure 55 As shown, the receiving portion 201 is provided on a first end side in the first direction D1, and the nozzle 102 and the bag-side baffle 203 are provided on a second end side opposite to the first end in the first direction D1. That is, the receiving portion 201 and the nozzle 202 are configured to be arranged along the first direction D1. In this embodiment, the receiving portion 201 is a bag formed by bagging a flexible polypropylene sheet. The receiving portion 201 is not limited to a bag, but can be a resin bottle or a container made of paper, vinyl resin, etc.

[0406] like Figure 56 As shown, on the side surface 202c (first outer surface) of the nozzle 202 extending along the first direction D1, a discharge opening 202a (opening, nozzle opening, first opening) is configured to be in fluid communication with the interior of the receiving portion 201. The toner stored in the receiving portion 201 is configured to be discharged to the outside of the toner package 220 through the discharge opening 202a of the nozzle 202. The nozzle 202 may be integrally constructed with the receiving portion 201. Furthermore, a seal (not shown) may be provided between the receiving portion 201 and the discharge opening 202a of the nozzle 202, and the receiving portion 201 and the discharge opening 202a may be in fluid communication with each other when the seal is removed. Furthermore, the discharge opening 202a is not necessarily the final discharge opening for discharging the toner from the toner package 220 to the outside of the toner package 220.

[0407] A side baffle 203 is provided on the outer side of the side surface 202c of the nozzle 202. The side baffle 203 is rotatably mounted around a rotation axis A (first rotation axis, central axis) extending in the direction along the first direction D1, and an opening 203a (rotatable member opening, first baffle opening) is provided on the side surface 203d (outer surface of the first rotatable member, side surface portion of the rotatable member) extending in the direction along the rotation axis A. Figure 56 As shown. The side baffle 203 is disposed on the outer side of the side surface 202c of the nozzle 202 in the radial direction r of an imaginary circle VC centered on the rotation axis A. The side surface 202c of the nozzle 202 is a curved surface that protrudes outward in the radial direction r of the imaginary circle VC centered on the rotation axis A. That is, the discharge opening 202a faces outward in the radial direction r (the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis A). Furthermore, the inner surface of the side baffle 203 (the surface facing the side surface 202c) is a curved surface along the side surface 202c of the nozzle 202, and a generally rectangular side seal 205 is mounted thereon.

[0408] like Figure 55 Part (b) and Figure 55 As shown in part (d), the package side baffle 203 can move around the rotation axis A between a closed position and an open position along the rotation direction K (first rotation direction) and the rotation direction L (second rotation direction) opposite to the rotation direction K. In the closed position, the package side seal 205 closes the discharge opening 202a of the nozzle 202, and in the open position, the discharge opening 202a is opened. When the package side baffle 203 is in the open position, the discharge opening 202a of the nozzle 202 is exposed through the opening 203a.

[0409] When in Figure 55 When the side baffle 203 of the package, in the closed position shown in part (b), rotates about the rotation axis A in the direction of arrow K, the side baffle 203 moves to Figure 55 The open position is shown in part (d). Conversely, when the pack side baffle 203 is rotated from the open position in the direction of arrow L, it moves to the closed position. During the rotation operation of the pack side baffle 203, the pack side baffle 203 slides on the side surface 202c of the nozzle 202 via the pack side seal 205.

[0410] Reference Figures 57 to 61 The specific structure of the nozzle 202 and the side baffle 203 will be described. Arrow N points from the receiving part 201 toward the nozzle 202, while arrow U points in the opposite direction. Arrows N and U are parallel to the axis of rotation A. When the toner bag 220 is in the installed position, arrow N points vertically downward (direction of gravity), and arrow U points vertically upward.

[0411] Figure 57 Part (a) is an enlarged view of the vicinity of nozzle 202 when the side baffle 203 is in the closed position. Figure 57 Part (b) is along Figure 57 The view of toner packet 220 viewed in the direction of arrow U in part (a). Figure 58 Part (a) is an enlarged perspective view of the vicinity of nozzle 202 when the side baffle 203 is in the open position. Figure 58 Part (b) is along Figure 58 The bottom view of toner packet 220 as seen in the direction of arrow U in part (a). Figure 58 Part (c) is viewed from the front. Figure 58 Enlarged view of nozzle 202 in part (a). Figure 59 Part (a) is from and Figure 57 A perspective view of the area near nozzle 202, viewed from the opposite side (a). Figure 59 Part (b) is Figure 59 Enlarged perspective view of the protrusion 202b of part (a). Figure 59Part (c) is an enlarged view of the protrusion 202b as viewed in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation A. Figure 60 Part (a) is an enlarged perspective view of the protrusion 202b. Figure 60 Part (b) is Figure 57 A magnified view of the protrusion 202b in part (b). Figure 61 Part (a) and Figure 61 Part (b) shows the front and rear views of the nozzle 202. Figure 61 Part (a) and Figure 61 Part (b) is a diagram of the vicinity of nozzle 202 when viewed along a direction parallel to surfaces 202d1 and 202d2 of nozzle 202 (perpendicular to the axis of rotation A).

[0412] like Figure 61 Part (a) and Figure 57 As shown in part (b), the nozzle 202 is provided with a positioning portion 202d, which has a surface 202d1 (first nozzle surface, first opposing surface) and a surface 202d2 (second nozzle surface, second opposing surface). These two surfaces are arranged with a gap between them along the direction of arrow R (second direction D2) and extend in a direction intersecting the direction of arrow R. The direction of arrow R is perpendicular to the first direction D1. Figure 57 As shown in part (b), surfaces 202d1 and 202d2 in this embodiment extend in a direction perpendicular to the direction of arrow R and are parallel to each other. That is, the direction of arrow R is the normal direction of surfaces 202d1 and 202d2. When the toner packet 220 is mounted on the mounting part 206, the positioning part 202d and the positioning part 207a of the first frame 207 ( Figure 40 Part (a)) is joined. This determines the position of nozzle 202 relative to the first frame 207 (base frame 221) in the direction of arrow R (position in the rotational direction about the axis of rotation A). Figure 57 In part (b), the straight line CL1 (first imaginary line), which passes through the center between surfaces 202d1 and 202d2 in the direction of arrow R and extends in a direction perpendicular to arrow R, is in phase with the straight line CL2 (second imaginary line), which passes through the center of the discharge opening 202a and the axis of rotation A, rotated by approximately 90°. That is, the straight line CL2, obtained by rotating the straight line CL1 by 90 degrees about the axis of rotation A, passes through the discharge opening 202a of the nozzle 202.

[0413] In addition, such as Figure 57 and 61 As shown, surfaces 202e1 and 202e2 are respectively disposed downstream of surfaces 202d1 and 202d2 in the N direction along the rotation axis A. Figure 57 As shown in part (b), surfaces 202e1 and 202e2 extend in the radial direction r of an imaginary circle VC centered on the axis of rotation A.

[0414] exist Figure 61 In the middle, side surface 202e3 (second outer surface) is disposed between surfaces 202d1 and 202d2 and between surfaces 202e1 and 202e2 in the direction of arrow R. Side surface 202e3 is recessed inward in the radial direction r relative to side surface 202c. Surfaces 202d1, 202d2, side surface 202e3, 202e1, 202e2 and side surface 202e3 form a recess 202e (nozzle recess).

[0415] Surfaces 202d1 and 202d2 need not be parallel as in this embodiment. Surfaces 202d1 and 202d2 may be surfaces extending in the radial direction r of an imaginary circle VC centered on the axis of rotation A.

[0416] also, Figure 61 Part (a) is a view near the nozzle of the toner bag 220 when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation A, with the side baffle 203 in the closed position. Figure 61 As shown in part (a), an opening 203a is provided in the side surface 203d of the package side baffle 203, and at least a portion of the recess 202e (surface 202e1, surface 202e2, side surface 202e3) of the nozzle 202 is exposed to the outside through the opening 203a. At least surfaces 202d1 and 202d2 are configured to be exposed through the opening 203a of the package side baffle 203 when it is in the closed position. This is because, when the toner bag 220 is mounted onto the mounting part 206 with the package side baffle 203 closed, surfaces 202d1 and 202d2 engage with the positioning part 207a of the first frame 207.

[0417] In addition, such as Figure 57 As shown in part (b), when the side baffle 203 is in the closed position, if the vicinity of the nozzle 202 is observed along the direction of the rotation axis A (first direction D), the driven transmission part 203b (rotatable member recess) is provided on the outer surface of the side baffle 203, located on the opposite side of the recess 202e of the nozzle 202 (opening 203a of the side baffle 203) about the rotation axis A. Figure 61 As shown in part (b), surfaces 203b1 and 203b2 of the driven transmission part 203b extend in a direction perpendicular to the direction of arrow R (the direction of the rotation axis A). Figure 59Part (a) is an enlarged perspective view of the vicinity of the side baffle 203, viewed from the side where the driven transmission part 203b is arranged. Between surfaces 203b1 and 203b2, a side surface 203b3 (the outer surface of the second rotatable member, the side surface portion of the rotatable member) is provided, which is recessed inward from the side surface 203d in the radial direction. The driven transmission part 203b includes surfaces 203b1, 203b2, and side surface 203b3. Furthermore, a rib 203e is provided on the side surface 203b3.

[0418] When the side baffle 203 is from Figure 57 When the closed position is rotated in the rotation direction K, the side baffle 203 is in the open position, and the outlet 202a of the nozzle 202 is exposed through the opening 203a of the side baffle 203, as shown. Figure 58 As shown.

[0419] In addition, such as Figure 57 Part (a) and Figure 59 As shown in part (a), the side baffle 203 is provided with a radial positioning portion 203f that protrudes outward in the radial direction beyond the side surface 203d. The radial positioning portion 203f is provided on the upstream side of the side baffle 203 in the N direction along the rotation axis A. The radial positioning portion 203f is provided at each of three positions spaced apart in the rotation direction of the side baffle 203.

[0420] In this embodiment, the nozzle 202 includes a channel through which the toner passes and a discharge opening 202a for discharging the toner from the nozzle 202. The cross-sectional area of ​​the channel through which the toner passes in the nozzle 202 can be made smaller, larger, or uniform towards the discharge opening 202a. The cross-sectional area and length of the channel of the nozzle 202 can be appropriately varied according to the desired toner discharge and are not limited thereto. Furthermore, the discharge opening 202a of the nozzle 202 need not be the downstream opening through which the toner is discharged from the toner package 220. The toner discharged from the discharge opening 202a of the nozzle 202 can be discharged to the outside of the toner package 220 after passing through a channel of a different component than the nozzle 202.

[0421] The side baffle 203 can be a rotatable member with a driven transmission section 203b but without a baffle function, so the discharge opening 202a of the nozzle 202 is open regardless of the rotation position. In this case, the discharge opening 202a of the nozzle 202 can be closed by a seal (not shown) when the toner bag 220 is not installed to the mounting section 206, and the seal can be removed by the installation operation to the mounting section 206 or after the installation operation. Alternatively, a toner bag 220 without the side baffle 203 can be used.

[0422] (Removal of restrictions on toner packets)

[0423] Reference Figures 55 to 61 The description will cover the restriction removal section 204. Here, as... Figure 55 As shown, the toner cartridge 220 is oriented in a predetermined direction in which the second end side (nozzle 202 side) of the toner cartridge 220 is lower than the first end side (toner container side). In other words, the toner cartridge 220 is oriented in a posture (predetermined orientation) in which the axis of rotation A is in the vertical direction (the direction of gravity) and at least a portion of the nozzle 202 is below the container 201. At this time, the posture of the toner container 220 is the posture for mounting to the mounting portion 206 of the image forming apparatus 1. At this time, in Figures 55 to 61 In the diagram, the N direction is vertically downward (the direction of gravity), and the U direction is vertically upward.

[0424] The nozzle 202 is provided with a protrusion 202b (bulge, joint) that protrudes beyond the end surface 203c in the direction of arrow N (downward) of the side baffle 203. For example... Figure 57 Part (a) and Figure 57 As shown in part (b), the protrusion 202b is a cylindrical portion centered on the axis of rotation A. Furthermore, as... Figure 55 As shown, the receiving part 201, the nozzle 202 (including the side baffle 203), and the protrusion 202b are arranged in a specified order in the N direction, which is the installation direction in which the toner bag 220 is installed onto the mounting part 206.

[0425] When the protrusion 202b is viewed in the direction of the rotation axis A, as follows: Figure 57 As shown in part (b), the protrusion 202b is located on the side closer to the axis of rotation A than the driven transmission part 203b of the side baffle 203 in the radial direction r of the imaginary circle VC.

[0426] The protrusion 202b has a protrusion end surface 202b2 (positioning surface in the mounting direction) that serves as an end surface in the N direction. The protrusion 202b is provided with a hole having an inner peripheral surface 202b1 (guiding inner peripheral surface, positioning inner peripheral surface) facing inward in the radial direction r with the rotation axis A as the central axis.

[0427] In this embodiment, the inner circumferential surface 202b1 is a cylindrical surface centered on the rotation axis A, such as... Figure 60 As shown in part (b). However, the invention is not limited to this example. Figure 71 Part (a) is an enlarged perspective view of the protrusion 202b, which has an inner circumferential surface structure different from that in this embodiment. Figure 71 Part (b) shows the view when viewed along the axis of rotation A. Figure 71The protrusion 202b of part (a). The inner circumferential surface 202b10 includes a plurality of flat surfaces inscribed in the imaginary circle, thereby defining the position of the center (central axis) of the imaginary circle VC2 relative to the protrusion 202b. The central axis of the imaginary circle VC2 coincides with the axis of rotation A. The inner circumferential surface of the protrusion 202b does not necessarily have to be a surface in which the central axis can be defined. Any inner circumferential surface can be used as long as the toner package 220 can be mounted to the mounting portion 206 while avoiding the central boss 209d.

[0428] like Figure 57 Part (a) Figure 58 Part (a) and Figure 58 As shown in part (c), the protrusion 202b protrudes downward from the end surface 203c of the side baffle 203, exceeding the discharge opening 202a. In this embodiment, the protrusion 202b extends downward from the end surface 203c of the side baffle 203, exceeding the discharge opening 202a. Figure 62 The nozzle 202 shown in part (b) has its end surface 202j (bottom surface) protruding in the direction of the rotation axis A on the nozzle 202. Additionally, as shown in part (b), Figure 56 As shown, the protrusion 202b protrudes downward beyond the lower end surface 202j of the nozzle 202. In this embodiment, the end surface 203c of the side baffle 203 and the end surface 202j of the nozzle 202 are end surfaces perpendicular to the rotation axis A, but the invention is not limited thereto. These surfaces can be any surfaces, as long as they extend in a direction intersecting the rotation axis A when viewed along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis A.

[0429] like Figure 58 As shown in part (c), the opening width L1 of the discharge opening 202a of the nozzle 202 in the direction of the rotation axis A and the width L2 measured from the lower end of the discharge opening 202A to the end surface 203c of the side baffle 203 preferably satisfy 0.09 < L2 / L1 < 2.2.

[0430] In addition, such as Figure 56 As shown, the protrusion 202b protrudes beyond the end surface 202j of the nozzle 202. In this embodiment, the end surface 203c of the side baffle 203 and the end surface 202j of the nozzle 202 are end surfaces perpendicular to the axis of rotation A, but the invention is not limited to this example. These surfaces can be any surface extending in a direction intersecting the axis of rotation A when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation A.

[0431] In addition, such as Figure 58 As shown in part (b), it can be understood that when viewed along the direction of the rotation axis A, when the pack side baffle 203 is in the open position, the opening 203a of the pack side baffle 203 overlaps with the discharge opening 202a in the circumferential direction of the imaginary circle VC.

[0432] The protrusion 202b is provided with a restriction release part 204 including a first restriction release part 204a (first protrusion) and a second restriction release part 204b (second protrusion). (Refer to...) Figure 59 Part (b) Figure 59 Part (c) Figure 60 Part (a) Figure 60 Part (b) Figure 62 Part (a) and Figure 62 Part (b) describes the specific structure of the restriction release section 204.

[0433] The first restriction release part 204a includes a first inclined surface 204a1 (a first internal engagement surface, a first downward surface, a first downward guiding surface, a first force application surface, and a first pressing surface), a second inclined surface 204a2 (a first external engagement surface, a second downward surface, a second downward guiding surface, a second force application surface, and a second pressing surface), and a third inclined surface 204a3 (a second engagement surface, a first upward surface, and an upward guiding surface).

[0434] When the toner packet 220 is in the aforementioned predetermined direction ( Figure 50 When oriented, the first inclined plane 204a1 and the second inclined plane 204a2 have surfaces facing the direction of arrow N (downward), and these surfaces extend in a manner that they travel along the direction of rotation K (the first rotation direction) about the axis of rotation A and then along the direction of arrow U (upward). Additionally, as... Figure 59 As shown in part (c), when viewed along a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation A, the first inclined plane 204a1 and the second inclined plane 204a2 extend in a manner that they travel along a first horizontal direction hz1 and then along the U direction (upward). Furthermore, when the direction of rotation K is the first circumferential direction of the imaginary circle VC, the first inclined plane 204a1 and the second inclined plane 204a2 face the direction of arrow N (downward) and extend in a manner that they travel along the first circumferential direction and then along the direction of arrow U.

[0435] The third inclined plane 204a3 is a surface facing the direction of arrow U (upward), and this surface extends in such a manner that it travels along the rotational direction L (second rotational direction) about the axis of rotation A and then along the direction of arrow U (upward). Furthermore, as... Figure 59As shown in part (c), the third inclined surface 204a3 has a surface that, when viewed along a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation A, extends in a manner that proceeds along a second horizontal direction hz2, which is opposite to the first horizontal direction hz1, and then in the direction of arrow U (upward). Furthermore, when the direction of rotation L is a second circumferential direction opposite to the first circumferential direction in the circumferential direction of the imaginary circle VC, the third inclined surface 204a3 faces the direction of arrow U (upward) and extends in a manner that proceeds along the second circumferential direction and then in the direction of arrow U (upward).

[0436] The downstream end of the second inclined plane 204a2 in the rotation direction K and the upstream end of the third inclined plane 204a3 in the rotation direction L are connected to each other by a connecting part 204a23. Furthermore, as... Figure 59 As shown in part (c), when viewed along a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation A, the downstream end of the second inclined surface 204a2 in the first horizontal direction hz1 and the upstream end of the third inclined surface 204a3 in the second horizontal direction hz2 are connected to each other by a connecting part 204a23.

[0437] The third inclined plane 204a3 is located above the second inclined plane 204a2. When viewed along the axis of rotation A, the third inclined plane 204a3 overlaps with the second inclined plane 204a2. In this embodiment, although the entire third inclined plane 204a3 is located above the second inclined plane 204a2, it is sufficient if at least a portion of the third inclined plane 204a3 is located on the second inclined plane 204a2.

[0438] like Figure 60 As shown in part (b), at least a portion of the first inclined plane 204a1 is located closer to the axis of rotation A in the radial direction r than the second inclined plane 204a2, and this location is different from the location of the second inclined plane 204a2 in the circumferential direction of the imaginary circle VC.

[0439] exist Figure 60 In part (b), the radius R204a1 measured from the rotation axis A to the inner end (edge ​​line) of the first inclined plane 204a1 is shorter than the radius R204a2 measured from the rotation axis A to the inner end (edge ​​line) of the second inclined plane 204a2. That is, at least a portion of the first inclined plane 204a1 is closer to the rotation axis A in the radial direction r than the second inclined plane 204a2.

[0440] In addition, Figure 60In part (b), the two regions of the first inclined plane 204a1, separated by an imaginary straight line VL204a1 passing through the rotation axis A and the downstream end of the second inclined plane 204a2 in the rotation direction L, are the upstream side region 204a12 and the downstream side region 204a11 in the rotation direction K. In this case, the second inclined plane 204a2 is not provided outside the upstream side region 204a12 in the radial direction r. That is, at least a portion of the first inclined plane 204a1 (the upstream side region 204a12) is provided at a different position from the second inclined plane 204a2 in the circumferential direction of the imaginary circle VC. Similarly, the two regions of the first inclined plane 204b1, separated by an imaginary straight line VL204b1 passing through the rotation axis A and the upstream end of the second inclined plane 204b2 in the rotation direction K, are the upstream side region 204b12 and the downstream side region 204b11 in the rotation direction L. In this case, the second inclined surface 204b2 is not provided outside the upstream side region 204b12 in the radial direction r. That is, at least a portion of the first inclined surface 204b1 (the upstream side region 204b12) is provided at a different position from the second inclined surface 204b2 in the circumferential direction of the imaginary circle VC. Specifically, in the first restriction release section 204a, the upstream side region 204a12 of the first inclined surface 204a1 is located upstream of the second inclined surface 204a2 in the rotational direction K. Furthermore, in the second restriction release section 204b, the upstream side region 204b12 of the first inclined surface 204b1 is located upstream of the second inclined surface 204b2 in the rotational direction K.

[0441] In addition, such as Figure 59 As shown in part (c), when viewed along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis A, at least a portion of the first inclined surface 204a1 is located at a different position from the second inclined surface 204a2 in the horizontal direction (first horizontal direction hz1 or second horizontal direction hz2). On the other hand, at least a portion of the third inclined surface 204a3 is disposed downstream (upper) of at least a portion of the second inclined surface 204a2 in the direction of arrow U. That is, when viewed along the rotation axis A, at least a portion of the third inclined surface 204a3 overlaps with the second inclined surface 204a2. Furthermore, above (directly above) the third inclined surface 204a3, a cavity 204a4 and an abutment surface 204a5 (downstream end surface, contacted surface) are provided. The abutment surface 204a5 is the downstream end surface in the rotation direction K, extending from the downstream end of the third inclined surface 204a3 in the rotation direction L along the direction of the rotation axis A. The abutment surface 204a5 faces the downstream side in the rotation direction K. Figure 59 In part (c), the abutting surface 204a5 extends upward from the downstream end of the third inclined surface 204a3 in the second horizontal direction hz2, and is the downstream end surface in the first horizontal direction hz1.

[0442] Next, refer to Figure 59 Part (c) will describe the tilt angles of the first inclined plane 204a1, the second inclined plane 204a2, and the third inclined plane 204a3 relative to the axis of rotation A. For example... Figure 59 As shown in part (c), when the protrusion 202b is viewed along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis A (the direction of gravity), the inclination angles of the first inclined surface 204a1, the second inclined surface 204a2, and the third inclined surface 204a3 relative to the direction of rotation axis A are α1, α2, and α3, respectively. In this embodiment, α1, α2, and α3 are approximately 50 degrees, approximately 50 degrees, and approximately 40 degrees, respectively. Preferably, α1, α2, and α3 are all 30 degrees or more and 60 degrees or less.

[0443] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the protrusion 202b is viewed along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis A, the length L204a1 of the first inclined surface 204a1 is approximately 2 mm, the length of the second inclined surface 204a2 is approximately 3 mm, and the length L204a3 of the third inclined surface 204a3 is approximately 3.5 mm. Preferably, the length L204a2 is greater than the length L204a1, and the length L204a3 is greater than the length L204a2. Additionally, the length H204a1 from the lower end surface 202b2 of the protrusion 202b to the upper end of the first inclined surface 204a1 is less than the length H204a2 from the lower end surface 202b2 to the upper end of the second inclined surface 204a2.

[0444] The first inclined surface 204a1, the second inclined surface 204a2, the third inclined surface 204a3, the cavity 204a4, and the abutment surface 204a5 are exposed to the outside of the toner bag 220, such that they can be accessed by the rotation limiting mechanism 212 of the mounting part 206. They are configured to be exposed to the outside of the toner bag 220 when the toner bag 220 is mounted to the mounting part 206. That is, when a cap or cover is provided to protect the nozzle 202 and the side baffle 203 of the toner bag 220 during transport, they are exposed when the cap or cover is removed.

[0445] Figure 62 Part (a) is along Figure 61 The cross-sectional view of the protrusion 202b in part (a) taken along line X209-X209 shows the third inclined surface 204a3 of the first restriction release part 204a and the third inclined surface 204b3 of the second restriction release part 204b. It can be understood that both the third inclined surface 204a3 and the third inclined surface 204b3 extend along the rotation direction of the side baffle 203 (the circumferential direction of the imaginary circle VC centered on the rotation axis A).

[0446] Figure 62 Part (b) is a view of the nozzle 202 as seen from one side of the protrusion 202b, visible from the direction of the rotation axis A. (See image below.) Figure 62 As shown in part (b), the restriction release part 204 is provided on the outer side of the inner peripheral surface 202b1 and on the inner side of the discharge opening 202a in the radial direction r. When the nozzle 202 is viewed along the direction of the rotation axis A, the first inclined surface 204a1, the second inclined surface 204a2, and the third inclined surface 204a3 are preferably provided closer to the inner peripheral surface 202b1 than the discharge opening 202a. Here, the distance from the rotation axis A to the inner peripheral surface 202b1 is r1, the distance from the rotation axis A to the outer end of the second inclined surface 204a2 (second inclined surface 204b2) is r2, and the distance r3 from the rotation axis A to the discharge opening 202a preferably satisfies the following:

[0447] (r2-r1) / (r3-r1)<0.3.

[0448] That is, when the nozzle 202 is viewed along the direction of the rotation axis A, the distance from the inner circumferential surface 202b1 to the first inclined surface 204a1, the distance from the inner circumferential surface 202b1 to the second inclined surface 204a2, and the distance from the inner circumferential surface 202b1 to the third inclined surface 204a3 are preferably less than 30% of the distance from the inner circumferential surface 202b1 to the discharge opening 202a.

[0449] like Figures 57 to 61 As shown, the second restriction release part 204b is provided with a first inclined surface 204b1 (third downward surface), a second inclined surface 204b2 (fourth downward surface), a third inclined surface 204b3 (second upward surface), a cavity 204b4 (second cavity), and an abutment surface 204b5 (second abutment surface, second downstream end surface, second contacted surface). Here, the second restriction release part 204b has a shape that is 180 degrees rotationally symmetrical with respect to the rotation axis A to the first restriction release part 204a, and it is provided on the opposite side of the restriction release part 204a in the radial direction r of the imaginary circle VC with respect to the rotation axis A. In other words, the first inclined surface 204b1, the second inclined surface 204b2, the third inclined surface 204b3, the cavity 204b4, and the abutment surface 204b5 each have a shape that is rotationally symmetrical about the rotation axis A with respect to the first inclined surface 204a1, the second inclined surface 204a2, the third inclined surface 204a3, the cavity 204a4, and the abutment surface 204a5. That is, if the first inclined surface 204a1, the second inclined surface 204a2, the third inclined surface 204a3, the cavity 204a4, and the abutment surface 204a5 are rotated 180 degrees about the rotation axis A, they become the first inclined surface 204b1, the second inclined surface 204b2, the third inclined surface 204b3, the cavity 204b4, and the abutment surface 204b5. Therefore, a detailed description of the second restriction release part 204b will be omitted.

[0450] Here, the second inclined surface 204a2 of the first restriction release part 204a is not located outside any region of the first inclined surface 204b1 of the second restriction release part 204b in the radial direction r. That is, the first inclined surface 204a1 is located at a different position than the second inclined surface 204b2 in the circumferential direction of the imaginary circle VC.

[0451] like Figure 61 As shown in part (a), when viewed along a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation A (perpendicular to the direction of arrow R), the protrusion 202b is located between surfaces 202d1 and 202d2 of the positioned portion 202d in the direction of arrow R. Therefore, in the direction of arrow R, the positions of the first restriction release portion 204a and the second restriction release portion 204b are between the positions of surfaces 202d1 and 202d2 of the positioned portion 202d. That is, in the direction of arrow R, the positions of the first inclined surface 204a1, the second inclined surface 204a2, and the third inclined surface 204a3 are all between the positions of surfaces 202d1 and 202d2. When viewed along a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation A, the positions of the first restriction release portion 204a and the second restriction release portion 204b overlap with the position of the recess 202e in the direction of arrow R.

[0452] In addition, such as Figure 61 As shown in part (a), when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation A (radial direction r), the protrusion 202b is located within the width of the opening 203a of the side baffle 203 in the direction of arrow R.

[0453] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the protrusion 202b is provided on the nozzle 202, but it is not necessary for it to be provided on the nozzle 202.

[0454] In this embodiment, the protrusion 202b is provided with two parts, namely a first restriction release part 204a and a second restriction release part 204b that are 180 degrees rotationally symmetrical with respect to the rotation axis A. However, this embodiment is not limited to such an example.

[0455] Figure 196 Part (a) and Figure 196 Part (b) is a perspective view and a bottom view of the protrusion 202b in which the first restriction release part 204a is provided but the second restriction release part 204b is not provided.

[0456] Figure 196 Part (c) and Figure 196 Part (d) is a perspective view and a bottom view of the protrusion 202b near which the second restriction release part 204b has a shape that is 190 degrees rotationally symmetrical with respect to the axis of rotation A to the first restriction release part 204a.

[0457] The structure can be such that it only provides a first limiting release part 204a, including a first inclined surface 204a1, a second inclined surface 204a2, a third inclined surface 204a3, a cavity 204a4, and an abutment surface 204a5, as shown below. Figure 196 Part (a) and Figure 196 As shown in part (b). Additionally, as... Figure 196 Part (c) and Figure 196 As shown in part (d), the second restriction release part 204b can have a shape that is 190 degrees rotationally symmetrical about the rotation axis A with respect to the first restriction release part 204a. That is, the first inclined surface 204b1, the second inclined surface 204b2, the third inclined surface 204b3, the cavity 204b4, and the abutment surface 204b5 can each have a shape that is 190 degrees rotationally symmetrical about the rotation axis A with respect to the first inclined surface 204a1, the second inclined surface 204a2, the third inclined surface 204a3, the cavity 204a4, and the abutment surface 204a5, respectively. With this structure, the angle α204ab1 between the first inclined surface 204a1 and the first inclined surface 204b1 about the rotation axis is 190 degrees. The angle α204ab2 between the second inclined surface 204a2 and the second inclined surface 204b2 about the rotation axis A is also 190 degrees. The second restriction release part 204b preferably has a shape that is rotationally symmetrical with respect to the rotation axis A and the first restriction release part 204a with an angle of 150 degrees or more and 210 degrees or less. That is, the first inclined surface 204b1, the second inclined surface 204b2, the third inclined surface 204b3, the cavity 204b4, and the abutment surface 204b5 preferably have a shape that is rotationally symmetrical with respect to the rotation axis A and the first inclined surface 204a1, the second inclined surface 204a2, the third inclined surface 204a3, the cavity 204a4, and the abutment surface 204a5 with an angle of 150 degrees or more and 210 degrees or less, respectively.

[0458] (Installation of the colorant package to the installation department)

[0459] Reference Figures 63 to 69 The mechanism described herein is a mechanism for releasing the rotation restriction mechanism 212 from the equipment side baffle 209 by installing the toner packet 220 onto the mounting part 206.

[0460] Figure 63 Part (a) and Figure 63 Part (c) shows perspective views of the toner pack 220 and the mounting section 206 when the toner pack 220 is being installed on the mounting section 206 and when the installation is complete. Figure 63 Part (b) is from with Figure 63 Perspective view of toner pack 220 and mounting section 206 viewed from different sides (a). Figure 64 Part (a) is from toner packet 220 Figure 63The toner package 220 and the mounting part 206 are cut along a line parallel to the axis of rotation A (axis of rotation B) in the state shown in part (a) after being moved further along the mounting direction. Figure 64 Part (b) is along Figure 64 A sectional view taken from line X210-X210 in part (a). Figure 64 Part (c) is along Figure 64 A sectional view taken from line X211-X211 in part (a). Figure 65 Part (a) to Figure 65 Part (c) is a cross-sectional view showing the process of installing the toner packet 220 into the mounting section 206. Figure 65 Part (d) to Figure 65 Part (f) is respectively with Figure 65 Part (a) to Figure 65 The perspective view corresponding to part (c) is shown, but only the protrusion 202b, the release member 214 and the restraint member 213 are shown. Figure 66 Part (a) and Figure 66 Part (b) is shown in Figure 65 This is a cross-sectional view of the process of installing the toner pack 220 into the mounting section 206 after the state shown in part (c). Figure 66 Part (c) and Figure 66 Part (d) is respectively with Figure 66 Part (a) and Figure 66 The perspective view corresponding to part (b) shows only the protrusion 202b, the release member 214 and the restraint member 213. Figure 67 Part (a) and Figure 67 Part (b) is a perspective view showing the positional relationship between the release member 214 and the cover 210. Figure 67 Part (c) and Figure 67 Parts (d) are located when viewed along the direction (upper side) of the rotation axis A. Figure 67 Part (a) and Figure 67 The illustration shows the release member 214 and cover 210 in part (b) state. Figure 68 Part (a) is a cross-sectional view of the toner pack 220 and the mounting section 206 taken along the axis of rotation A (axis of rotation B) with the toner pack 220 already installed in the mounting section 206. Figure 68 Part (b) and Figure 68 Part (c) are respectively along Figure 68 Section (a) shows the sectional view taken along line X213-X213 and the sectional view taken along line X212-X212.

[0461] exist Figure 64In the illustration, the cross-sectional views of the side baffle 203 and the cover 210 are shaded. Additionally, in... Figure 65 Part (a) to Figure 65 Part (c) and Figure 66 Part (a) and Figure 66 In part (b), the side baffle 203, the restraining member 213, and the release member 214 are shown in side views, while the other members are shown in sectional views. Furthermore, in Figure 68 In order to better illustrate, the cross-sections of cover 210, limiting member 213 and release member 214 are shaded.

[0462] like Figure 63 Part (a) and Figure 63 As shown in part (b), the toner bag 220, with its side baffle 203 in the closed position, moves along the mounting direction M toward the mounting portion 206, where the device side baffle 209 is in the closed position. The user mounts the toner bag 220 onto the mounting portion 206 by moving it along the mounting direction M while it is oriented in the predetermined direction. The mounting direction M is the direction of arrow N, i.e., vertically downward (the direction of gravity). Furthermore, the mounting direction M is the direction of the rotation axis A (rotation axis B).

[0463] At this time, the toner bag 220 is mounted on the mounting part 206 with two positions aligned in the rotational direction (circumferential direction of the imaginary circle VC) of the bag side baffle 203. The alignment between the first recess 202e for the nozzle 202 (the opening 203a of the bag side baffle 203) and the positioning part 207a of the first frame 207, when viewed along the mounting direction M, is as follows: Figure 63 As shown in part (a). The alignment between the position of the second driven transmission part 203b for the side baffle 203 and the position of the drive transmission part 208a for the operating lever 208 is as follows: Figure 63 As shown in part (b). The structure is such that by aligning one of them, the other is aligned.

[0464] After aligning these positions, the toner packet 220 moves in the mounting direction M and is installed onto the mounting portion 206, thereby... Figure 64 As shown in part (a), the small-diameter portion 209d2 of the central boss 209d of the equipment side baffle 209 is inserted into the protrusion 202b of the nozzle 202 along the inner circumferential surface 202b1. The inner circumferential surface 202b1 of the protrusion 202b engages (joins) with the small-diameter portion 209d2 of the central boss 209d. This engagement determines the position of the nozzle 202 relative to the equipment side baffle 209 located below the nozzle 202 (downstream side in the mounting direction M) in the radial direction r of the imaginary circle VC. At this time, as... Figure 64As shown in part (b), the drive transmission portion 208a (rod protrusion) of the operating lever 208 and the driven transmission portion 203b (rotatable member recess) of the side baffle 203 engage with each other. Additionally, the rib 203e is inserted into the slit 208c provided in the drive transmission portion 208a. Meanwhile, as... Figure 64 As shown in part (c), the side surfaces 210f and 210g of the cover 210 guide the surfaces 202e1 and 202e2 of the forming recess 202e (nozzle recess) of the nozzle 202. Furthermore, the driven transmission portion 203b (rotatable member recess) of the package side baffle 203 engages with the driven transmission portion 209e (baffle protrusion) of the equipment side baffle 209. This makes the rotation axis A of the package side baffle 203 and the rotation axis B of the equipment side baffle 209 substantially coaxial.

[0465] The operating lever 208, the package side baffle 203, and the equipment side baffle 209 can rotate integrally with respect to the first frame 207 (base frame 221) and the nozzle 202 about the rotation axis A (rotation axis B). Specifically, when the operating lever 208 rotates in the rotation direction D, the drive transmission part 208a of the operating lever 208 pushes the surface 203b1 of the package side baffle 203 to rotate the package side baffle 203 in the rotation direction D. Subsequently, the surface 203b2 of the package side baffle 203 pushes the driven transmission part 209e of the equipment side baffle 209, and the equipment side baffle 209 rotates in the rotation direction D. When the operating lever 208 rotates in the rotation direction E, the drive transmission part 208a of the operating lever 208 pushes the surface 203b2 of the package side baffle 203, and the package side baffle 203 rotates in the rotation direction E. Subsequently, the surface 203b1 of the package side baffle 203 pushes the driven transmission part 209e of the equipment side baffle 209 to rotate the equipment side baffle 209 in the rotation direction E. Therefore, the structure is such that, without the aforementioned rotation limiting mechanism 212, the equipment side baffle 209 is configured to rotate via the operating lever 208 through the package side baffle 203, so that the equipment side baffle 209 can be rotated regardless of the position of the operating lever.

[0466] Here, if the device side baffle 209 rotates from the closed position to the open position in the rotation direction D due to user error or vibration during transport of the image forming device 1, the position of the driven transmission part 209e of the device side baffle 209 in the rotation direction also shifts. Then, when the toner bag 220 is to be installed on the mounting part 206, the following occurs. When the toner bag 220 moves further in the mounting direction M after the driven transmission part 203b of the bag side baffle 203 engages with the drive transmission part 208a of the operating lever 208, it cannot engage with the driven transmission part 209e of the device side baffle 209. Therefore, the toner bag 220 cannot move relative to the mounting part 206 to the installed position. To prevent this from happening, the rotation limiting mechanism 212 restricts the rotation of the device side baffle 209.

[0467] Next, refer to Figures 65 to 67 The details of the mechanism for releasing the rotation restriction mechanism 212 of the mounting part 206 by mounting the toner packet 220 onto the mounting part 206 will be described. Figure 65 and 66 The illustration shows the process of installing the toner packet 220 onto the mounting section 206 in chronological order. The second restriction release section 204b functions in the same way as the first restriction release section 204a, therefore its description will be omitted.

[0468] exist Figure 65 Part (a)( Figure 65 At the moment shown in part (d), the first restriction release part 204a of the nozzle 202 and the release claw 214e of the release member 214 separate from each other. At this moment, as Figure 67 Part (a) and Figure 67 As shown in part (c), when viewed along the direction of the rotation axis A, Figure 47 The second guided surface 214e2 of the release claw 214e shown is covered by the rim 210n of the cover 210, so that it is not exposed through the central hole 210p of the cover 210. When the toner packet 220 moves further from this position in the direction of arrow N (installation direction M), the first inclined surface 204a1 of the first restriction release portion 204a and the first guided surface 214e1 of the release claw 214e come into contact with each other, and as shown... Figure 65 Part (b)( Figure 65 The state shown in part (e)). As the toner packet 220 moves further from this position in the direction of arrow N, the release member 214 overcomes the force F204 received by the first guided surface 214e1 from the first inclined plane 204a1. Figure 50The pushing force F203 of the release spring 216, as shown, rotates in the rotational direction D. At this time, the first inclined surface 204a1 of the first restriction release portion 204a acts as a guide surface, guiding the first guided surface 214e1 of the release member 214 so that the first guided surface 214e1 moves along the first inclined surface 204a1. In other words, the first inclined surface 204a1 guides the first guided surface 214e1 so that the release member 214 rotates about the rotation axis A in the rotational direction D. Furthermore, the first inclined surface 204a1 of the first restriction release portion 204a also functions as a first force-applying surface (first pushing surface) that applies (pushing) force to the first guided surface 214e1. The force F204 includes a force component F204x that causes the release member 214 to rotate about the rotation axis B in the rotational direction D, overcoming the pushing force of the release spring 216. The release member 214 rotates along the rotation direction D until the first guided surface 214e1 passes the downstream end of the first inclined surface 204a1 in the rotation direction D. By rotating the release member 214 along the rotation direction D, the second guided surface 214e2 of the release claw 214e is exposed through the central hole 210p of the cover 210 when viewed along the rotation axis A. Figure 67 Part (b)( Figure 67 As shown in part (d)), the first inclined surface 204a1 has the function of rotating the release member 214 to a position where, when viewed in the direction along the rotation axis A, at least the second guided surface 214e2 is exposed through the central hole 210p of the cover 210 (preliminary rotation function). Although the first inclined surface 204a1 in this embodiment is an inclined surface, the present invention is not limited thereto. It is sufficient as long as the surface can engage with the first guided surface 214e1 to rotate the release member 214 in the rotation direction D when the toner packet 220 is mounted on the mounting part 206.

[0469] When the toner packet 220 is from Figure 67 Part (b)( Figure 67 When the part (d) shown in the first restriction release part 204a moves further in the direction of arrow N, the second inclined surface 204a2 of the first restriction release part 204a comes into contact with the second guided surface 214e2 of the release claw 214e, resulting in the position of the first restriction release part 204a contacting the second guided surface 214e2 of the release claw 214e. Figure 65 Part (c)( Figure 65 The state shown in part (f)). In this state, when the toner packet 220 moves in the direction of arrow N, the release member 214 overcomes the force F205 received from the second inclined plane 204a2 by the second guided surface 214e2. Figure 50The release spring 216, as shown, receives force F203 and rotates in the rotational direction D. At this time, the second inclined surface 204a2 of the first restriction release portion 204a serves as a guide surface, guiding the second guided surface 214e2 so that the second guided surface 214e2 moves along the second inclined surface 204a2. In other words, the second inclined surface 204a2 guides the second guided surface 214e2 of the release member 214, causing the release member 114 to rotate about the rotation axis A in the rotational direction D. Furthermore, the second inclined surface 204a2 of the first restriction release portion 204a also functions as a second force-applying surface (second pushing surface) that applies (pushing) force to the second guided surface 214e2. Force F205 includes a force component F205x that causes the release member 214 to rotate about the rotation axis B in the rotational direction D, overcoming the pushing force of the release spring 216.

[0470] The release member 214 rotates along the rotation direction D until the second guided surface 214e2 passes the downstream end of the second inclined surface 204a2 in the rotation direction D. This rotation of the release member 214 along the rotation direction D up to this point is the first step for releasing the aforementioned rotation restriction. That is, the first step is to rotate the release member 214 against the pushing force of the release spring 216 along the rotation direction D to a position where the rising restriction release position (rising restriction release area) is reached where the rising restriction surface 214c does not contact the rising restriction surface 210e of the cover 210 when the release member 214 rises. Figure 53 The steps are shown in part (b). In other words, the first step is to rotate the release member 214 against the pushing force of the release spring 216 in the rotational direction D to a position where, when viewed in the direction along the rotation axis B, the rising restricted surface 214c does not overlap with the rising restricted surface 210e of the cover 210. Although the second inclined surface 204a2 in this embodiment is an inclined surface, the invention is not limited to such an example. It is sufficient as long as this surface can engage with the second guided surface 214e2 to rotate the release member 214 in the rotational direction D when the toner packet 220 is mounted onto the mounting portion 206.

[0471] After the first step, the third guided surface 214e3 of the release claw 214e rises via the connecting portion 204a23 of the first restriction release portion 204a to the upstream end of the third inclined surface 204a3 in the rotation direction E. That is, at the connecting portion 204a23 of the first restriction release portion 204a, the rotation direction of the release member 214 changes from the rotation direction D to the rotation direction E.

[0472] At this time, as Figure 66 Part (a)( Figure 66As shown in part (c), the third guided surface 214e3 of the release claw 214e contacts the third inclined surface 204a3 of the nozzle 202 due to the torque M202 (pushing force) of the release spring 216 and receives force F206 therefrom. Then, by the force component F206y of the force F206 in the direction of arrow G, the third guided surface 214e3 of the release member 214 moves in the direction extending along the third inclined surface 204a3 while being guided by the third inclined surface 204a3. After the release member 214 rotates in the direction of rotation D via the first inclined surface 204a1 and the second inclined surface 204a2, the third inclined surface 204a3 guides the third guided surface 214e3 so that the release member 214 moves in the direction of arrow G (upward) while being rotated in the direction of rotation E.

[0473] The movement of the release member 214 in the direction of arrow G is the second step for releasing the aforementioned rotational restriction. In this second step, the restriction member 213 is moved in the direction of arrow G by the release member 214. Additionally, the release member 214 rotates in the rotational direction E until... Figure 47 Part (d) shows the contact surfaces 214a and 214f ​​of the release member 214 abutting against the abutting surface 204a5 of the protrusion 202b. That is, in the release member 214, rotation in the rotational direction E is stopped by the contact surfaces 214a and 214f ​​abutting (contacting) the abutting surface 204a5 of the protrusion 202b. In this way, when the toner packet 220 is in... Figure 66 Part (b)( Figure 66 Part (d) and Figure 68 With the installation complete as shown, the rotation restriction release operation of the rotation restriction mechanism 212 has been completed. Along... Figure 68 The cross section intercepted by line X214-X214 in part (a) and Figure 51 The same as in part (b), and the rotation restriction of the equipment side baffle 209 is removed.

[0474] As described above, by mounting the toner packet 220 onto the mounting portion 206, the rotation restriction mechanism 212's restriction on the device side baffle 209 is released through the first and second steps described above. Although the third inclined surface 204a3 in this embodiment is an inclined surface, the present invention is not limited to such an example. It is sufficient as long as the surface can engage with the third guided surface 214e3 when the toner packet 220 is mounted onto the mounting portion 206, allowing the release member 214 to move in the direction of arrow G (upward). In addition, in this embodiment, the release member 214 rotates in the rotation direction E in the second step, but the structure can be such that the release member 214 does not rotate in the rotation direction E.

[0475] like Figure 68As shown in part (a), the toner bag 220 is installed in the position where the protruding end surface 202b2 of the protrusion 202b of the nozzle 202 contacts the bag contact surface 209g of the device side baffle 209. At this installed position, the position of the toner bag 220 relative to the mounting part 206 in the direction of the rotation axis A is determined. Furthermore, the inner circumferential surface 202b1 of the protrusion 202b of the nozzle 202 mates (engages) with the small diameter portion 209d2 of the central boss 209d of the device side baffle 209, thereby determining the position of the downstream nozzle in the radial direction r of the imaginary circle VC in the installation direction M. Furthermore, as... Figure 68 Part (c) (which is along) Figure 68 As shown in the cross section (a) taken by line X212-X212, the radial positioning part 203f of the side baffle 203 is... Figure 57 , Figure 59 The three positions of the equipment side baffle 209 and the inner circumferential surface 209h. Figure 44 Contact. Thus, the positions of the upstream nozzle 202 and the package side baffle 203 (toner package 220) in the installation direction M in the radial direction r of the imaginary circle VC are determined.

[0476] On the other hand, such as Figure 68 Part (b) (which is along) Figure 68 As shown in the cross-section (X213-X213) of part (a), the positioning part 207a of the first frame 207 engages with the positioning part of the nozzle 202 having surfaces 202d1 and 202d2. Therefore, the nozzle 202 is positioned relative to the first frame 207 (base frame 221) in the direction of arrow R on surfaces 202d1 and 202d2. This determines the position of the nozzle 202 relative to the first frame 207 in the direction of arrow R, thus further stabilizing the release operation of the rotation restriction on the device side baffle 209. In this specification, the magnitudes of the forces F204, F205, and F206 used to operate the release member 214 are chosen to be large enough that the effects of gravity and friction can be ignored; therefore, descriptions related to gravity and friction are omitted.

[0477] Through the aforementioned mechanism, the rotation restriction mechanism 212's restriction on the rotation of the equipment side baffle 209 is lifted, and the equipment side baffle 209 becomes rotatable from the closed position to the open position.

[0478] Furthermore, when the contact surfaces 214a and 214f ​​of the release member 214 come into contact with the abutment surface 204a5, the release member 214 may rotate forcefully due to the torque M202, producing a slight knocking sound. Additionally, the user holding the toner bag 220 will feel a reaction. That is, the user can also identify the release of the rotation restriction of the device side baffle 209 (installation complete) through the knocking sound or reaction. When the toner bag 220 is removed from the mounting section 206, it is then... Figure 65 The opposite process is performed, and the rotation of the device side baffle 209 is again restricted by the rotation restriction mechanism 212.

[0479] (Operation of the joystick)

[0480] When the toner packet 220 is in the installed position, such as Figure 68 As shown in part (b), the drive transmission portion 208a (rod protrusion) of the operating lever 208 and the driven transmission portion 203b (rotatable member recess) of the side baffle 203 engage with each other. Furthermore, as... Figure 68 As shown in part (c), the driven transmission portion 203b (rotatable member recess) of the package side baffle 203 engages with the driven transmission portion 209e (baffle protrusion) of the equipment side baffle 209. That is, as described above, this structure allows the operating lever 208, the package side baffle 203, and the equipment side baffle 209 to rotate integrally about the rotation axis A (rotation axis B) when the toner package 220 is mounted on the mounting portion 206.

[0481] here, Figure 69 Part (a) is a perspective view of the toner pack 220 viewed from above when the lever 208 is in the closed position. Figure 69 Part (b) is a perspective view of the toner packet 220 viewed from above when the lever 208 is in the open position. Figure 69 Part (c) is shown in Figure 69 The illustration shows the state in which the user releases the container 201 and replenishes the toner in part (b).

[0482] like Figure 69 Part (a) and Figure 69 As shown in part (b), it can be understood that when the operating part 208b of the operating lever 208 is rotated in the rotation direction D after the toner packet 220 has been installed on the mounting part 206, the device side baffle 209 rotates from the closed position to the open position, and the receiving part 101 does not rotate even when the operating lever 208, which is used to rotate the packet side baffle 203 from the closed position to the open position, is rotated. The packet side baffle 203 and the device side baffle 209 rotate together with the operating lever 208.

[0483] When the side baffle 203 rotates from the closed position to the open position, the frictional force F207 received by the nozzle 102 from the side baffle 103 via the side seal 105 points in the rotation direction K, such as... Figure 57 Part (a) is shown. This is consistent with... Figure 69 The operating lever 108 rotates in the same direction D. The nozzle 202 receives frictional force F207 and can rotate in the rotation direction K to adjust the clearance between surfaces 202d1 and 202d2 and the positioning portion 207a of the first frame 207. At this time, the rotation direction of the nozzle 202 causes the third inclined surface 204a3 of the first restriction release portion 204a to approach the release claw 214e of the release member 214, and causes the third inclined surface 204b3 of the second restriction release portion 204b to approach the release claw 214e of the release member 214. That is, when the operating lever 208 is rotated to rotate the side baffle 203 from the closed position to the open position, the restriction member 213 moves upward (in the U direction) together with the release member 214. Then, the second restriction surface 213c of the restriction member 213 separates upward from the restricted rib 209c of the equipment side baffle 209, resulting in an increased margin for releasing the rotation restriction. Therefore, the state in which the rotation restriction on the equipment side baffle 109 is released can be maintained more stably.

[0484] Through the above operations, the toner package 220's receiving section 201 and the toner receiving chamber 36 are connected to each other through the discharge opening 202a, the receiving opening 209a, and the equipment-side opening 217a.

[0485] here, Figure 70 Part (a) is a cross-sectional view of the toner bag 220 and the mounting section 206 when both the equipment side baffle 209 and the bag side baffle 203 are in the closed position. Figure 70 Part (b) is a cross-sectional view of the toner bag 220 and the mounting section 206 when both the equipment side baffle 209 and the bag side baffle 203 are in the open position.

[0486] exist Figure 70 In part (a), the discharge opening 202a of the nozzle 202 is closed by the side baffle 203, the side seal 205, and the equipment side baffle 209, preventing the toner in the receiving part 201 from reaching the equipment side opening 217a of the second frame 217. On the other hand, in Figure 70 In part (b), the discharge opening 202a of the nozzle 202 is opened by the movement of the package-side baffle 203, the package-side seal 205, and the equipment-side baffle 209. Figure 69As shown in part (c), as the receiving portion 201 is squeezed by the user, the toner in the receiving portion 201, along with air, is discharged from the discharge opening 202a to the outside of the toner package 220. A portion of the air discharged from the discharge opening 202a passes through the first filter 218 and the second filter to be discharged to the outside of the mounting portion 206. The toner is replenished into the toner receiving chamber 36 of the developer container 32 through the device-side opening 217a of the second frame 217.

[0487] (Variant Example 1)

[0488] Next, refer to Figures 72 to 78 Another structure will be described. Points identical to those in the above examples will be omitted. In particular, among the elements disclosed in this variant, elements corresponding to the components described in Embodiment 2 are assigned the same names as the components in Embodiment 2, and the differences from Embodiment 2 will be described.

[0489] In Embodiment 2, the protrusion 202b of the nozzle 202 is integrally formed with the nozzle 202. In this variant, the protrusion of Embodiment 2 is an accessory that is a separate component from the nozzle. This accessory is to be mounted onto the image forming apparatus 1. Furthermore, the mounting kit includes this accessory and a toner packet without protrusions. The structure of the accessory will be described below.

[0490] Figure 72 This is a perspective view of Annex 2102A of this variant. Figure 72 Part (a) and Figure 72 Part (b) is a perspective view of Annex 2102A viewed from different viewpoints. Figure 72 Part (c) is from with Figure 72 Part (b) Perspective view of the attachment viewed from different viewpoints. Figure 76 This is a perspective view of toner packet 2120 without protrusions. Figure 77 Part (a) is a side view of the toner pack 2120 installed on the image forming apparatus 1. Figure 77 Part (b) is along Figure 77 A sectional view taken from line X2103-X2103 in part (a). Figure 78 It is a perspective view of attachment 21102A, which has a different shape from attachment 2102A of this variant.

[0491] When accessory 2102A is installed onto mounting part 206, the rotation restriction of rotation restriction mechanism 212 can be released even if the installation begins from any phase in the circumferential direction of imaginary circle VC. The structure of this variant example will be described below.

[0492] like Figure 72As shown in part (a), accessory 2102A is generally cylindrical and includes a cylindrical portion 2102Aa and a protrusion 2102Ab arranged sequentially from the first end side in the first direction D1. The cylindrical portion 2102Aa and the protrusion 2102Ab have an inner circumferential surface 2102Ab1. In this variant, the inner circumferential surface 2102Ab1 is a cylindrical surface having a central axis A. The inner circumferential surface 2102Ab1 may not necessarily be a cylindrical surface, as in Embodiment 2. The protrusion 2102Ab and... Figure 59 Part (b) and Figure 59 Part (c) and Figure 60 The protrusion 202b of the nozzle 202 shown in Embodiment 2 has the same structure. The first restriction release portion 2104a (first protrusion) and the second restriction release portion 2104b (second protrusion) of the protrusion 2102Ab in this variant example have the same structure as the first restriction release portion 204a and the second restriction release portion 204b of Embodiment 2, and they are constructed with reference to the central axis A of the inner circumferential surface 2102Ab1. That is, the first inclined surface 2104a1, the second inclined surface 2104a2, the third inclined surface 2104a3, the cavity 2104a4, and the abutment surface 2104a5 of the protrusion 2102Ab have the same structure as the first inclined surface 204a1, the second inclined surface 204a2, the third inclined surface 204a3, the cavity 204a4, and the abutment surface 204a5, and are constructed with reference to the central axis A of the inner circumferential surface 2102Ab1. The second restriction release part 2104b has a shape that is 180 degrees rotationally symmetrical with respect to the rotation axis A to the first restriction release part 2104a, therefore its description will be omitted.

[0493] The cylindrical portion 2102Aa and the protrusion 2102Ab are coaxial with the central axis A. The cylindrical portion 2102Aa has a first end surface 2102Ax orthogonal to the central axis A on its first end side in the first direction D1. Here, the attachment 2102A has a shape that is 180 degrees rotationally symmetrical with respect to the central axis A, so only one side will be described. The cylindrical portion 2102Aa has protrusions 2102Am and 2102An located on its second end side in the first direction D1 and protruding in the radial direction r of an imaginary circle VC centered on the central axis A. The protrusions 2102Am and 2102An are located on the protrusion 2102Ab in the rotational direction centered on the central axis A, and the protrusion 2102An is located downstream of the protrusion 2102Am in the rotational direction E. Furthermore, an end surface 2102Ar parallel to the central axis A and intersecting the rotational direction E is provided upstream of the protrusion 2102Am in the rotational direction E. Furthermore, on the downstream side of the protrusion 2102An in the rotational direction E, an end surface 2102As is provided, which is parallel to the central axis A and intersects the rotational direction E. The end surface 2102As is located near the restriction release portion 2104b of the protrusion 2102Ab, and is located downstream of surface 2104s in the rotational direction E. Surface 2104s is the downstream surface of the restriction release portion 2104b facing the rotational direction E. Here, surface 2104s is a flat surface parallel to the central axis A and intersecting the rotational direction around the central axis A. The end surface 2102As and surface 2104s are smoothly connected in the first direction D1 by a ramp 2102Aw.

[0494] The end surfaces 2102At and 2102Au of the second end side of the protrusions 2102Am and 2102An in the first direction D1 are flat surfaces perpendicular to the central axis A, located at the same position in the first direction D1 and located on the first end side in the first direction D1 compared with the protruding end surface 2102Ab2 of the protrusion 2102Ab.

[0495] (Installation of attachments)

[0496] Annex 2102A is installed onto the mounting section 206 of the image forming apparatus 1. Details will be described below. (Refer to...) Figure 73 , 74 Sections 75 and 76 will describe a method for mounting Annex 2102A onto the image forming apparatus 1 (method of use).

[0497] Figure 73 This is a schematic diagram showing the parts of the cover 210, the limiting member 213, the releasing member 214, and the equipment side baffle 209 related to the installation operation of the accessory 2102A to the mounting part 206; other parts are omitted. Figure 73 Part (a) is the top view. Figure 73 Part (b) is along Figure 73 A sectional view taken from line X2101-X2101 in part (a). Figure 74 and 75 This is a cross-sectional view showing the installation process. Additionally, this figure shows the cover 210, the restraining member 213, and the releasing member 214 related to the installation of accessory 2102A into the image forming apparatus 1; other parts are omitted. That is, Figure 74 and 75 From Figure 73 The diagram of the equipment side baffle 209 is omitted. Figure 74 Part (a) Figure 74 Part (b) Figure 75 Part (a) and Figure 75 Part (b) is along Figure 73 The cross-sectional view taken along lines X2101-X2101 in part (a) shows the process of mounting accessory 2102A to image forming apparatus 1. Additionally, Figure 74 Part (c) Figure 74 Part (d) Figure 75 Part (c) and Figure 75 Part (d) is along Figure 73 The sectional view taken by line X2102-X2102 in part (b) corresponds to... Figure 74 Part (a) Figure 74 Part (b) Figure 75 Part (a) and Figure 75 The state shown in part (b).

[0498] like Figure 73 As shown in part (b), the user installs the attachment 2102A onto the mounting portion 206 by moving the attachment downwards (arrow N) with the protrusion 2102Ab facing downwards (in the direction of gravity) and the central axis A pointing approximately in a predetermined direction towards the direction of gravity. At this time, the installation movement causes the inner circumferential surface 2102Ab1 (recess) of the attachment 2102A to engage (fit) with the central boss 209d (positioning shaft, shaft portion) of the device side baffle 209. By engaging (fitting) the inner circumferential surface 2102Ab1 of the attachment 2102A with the central boss 209d, the attachment 2102A is positioned relative to the device side baffle 209 in the radial direction about the rotation axis B, and the central axis A of the attachment 2102A becomes coaxial with the rotation axis B of the mounting portion 206. Furthermore, the user pushes the attachment in the direction of arrow N while rotating the attachment 2102A in the rotation direction E.

[0499] like Figure 74 Part (a) and Figure 74As shown in part (c), when accessory 2102A is installed in the direction of arrow N, the inner circumferential surface 2102Ab1 of accessory 2102A engages with the central boss 209d of the equipment side baffle 209, and then the protruding end surface 2102Ab2 of accessory 2102A abuts against the upper surface 210i of cover 210. Furthermore, as... Figure 74 Part (b) and Figure 74 As shown in part (d), while the user rotates the attachment 2102A in the rotation direction E, the user pushes the attachment 2102A in the direction of arrow N, and the protruding end surface 2102Ab2 of the attachment 2102A abuts against the end surface 214h of the release member 214 located on the second end side in the first direction D1. Figure 75 Part (a) and Figure 75 As shown in part (c), when the user further rotates the attachment 2102A along the rotation direction E, the first inclined surface 2104a1 of the attachment 2102A contacts the guided surface 214e1 of the release member 214. In this manner, as in Embodiment 2, the release member 214 rotates along the rotation direction D while being guided by the first inclined surface 2104a1 by applying force from it. Furthermore, by the user rotating the attachment 2102A along the rotation direction E, as... Figure 75 As shown in part (c), surface 2104s abuts against the rim 210n of cover 210 in the rotational direction E, thereby stopping the rotation of accessory 2102A.

[0500] When the user Figure 75 Part (a) and Figure 75 When the state shown in part (c) is further pushed along the direction of arrow N, the inclined plane 2102Aw (see...) Figure 72 Part (b) abuts against the rim 210n of the cover 210, thereby causing attachment 2102A to rotate slightly relative to the cover 210 along the inclined plane 2102Aw in the rotational direction D. Furthermore, as Figure 75 Part (b) and Figure 75 As shown in part (d), when the user pushes the attachment 2102A in the direction of arrow N, the end surfaces 2102As and 2102Ar are clamped between the eaves 210n and the surface 210r facing the eaves 210n in the rotational direction centered on the central axis A, and they are tightly fitted. Here, surface 210r is parallel to the central axis A and machined so that the rotational direction E is around the central axis A. Furthermore, when the user pushes the attachment 2102A in the direction of arrow N, the protruding end surface 2102Ab2 abuts against the package contact surface 209g, and the movement of the attachment 2102A in the direction of arrow N is stopped (see [reference]). Figure 77 Part (b)).

[0501] The operation of removing component 214, which accompanies the above-mentioned attachment 2102A to the mounting unit 206, will be described.

[0502] First, such as Figure 75 As shown in part (a), the release member 214 rotates in the rotation direction D while being guided by the first inclined plane 2104a1.

[0503] Furthermore, attachment 2102A moves in the direction of arrow N, and releases the force F204 exerted on member 214 from the first inclined plane 2104a1 via the first guided surface 214e1 (see...). Figure 65 )overcome Figure 50 The spring 216 shown rotates in the direction of rotation D due to the pushing force F203.

[0504] Release member 214 rotates along the rotation direction D until the first guided surface 214e1 passes the downstream end of the first inclined surface 2104a1 in the rotation direction D.

[0505] Attachment 2102A moves further in the direction of arrow N, and the second inclined surface 2104a2 of the first restriction release part 2104a abuts against the second guided surface 214e2 of the release claw 214e, resulting in reaching... Figure 65 Part (c)( Figure 65 The state shown in part (f)). In this state, when attachment 2102A moves in the direction of arrow N, release member 214 rotates in the direction of rotation D by force F205 received from second inclined surface 2104a2 by second guided surface 214e2 overcoming the pushing force F203 applied by release spring 216.

[0506] The release member 214 is rotated in the rotation direction D until the second guided surface 214e2 passes the downstream end of the second inclined surface 2104a2 in the rotation direction D. Releasing the rotation of the release member 214 in the rotation direction D until this point is the first step for releasing the rotation restriction.

[0507] The subsequent operations for releasing component 214 are the same as in Example 2, so their description will be omitted.

[0508] As in Embodiment 2, the rotation restriction mechanism 212 of the image forming apparatus 1 is released, and the apparatus side baffle 209 becomes rotatable. Here, the accessory 2102A is installed onto the mounting portion 206 at any phase in the rotational direction about the central axis A. The release operation starting from the above state depends on the phase at which the installation begins, but regardless of the starting state of the release operation, the rotation restriction mechanism 212 can be released.

[0509] After Attachment 2102A is installed onto Mounting Unit 206, as follows Figure 76 The toner packet 2120 without protrusions shown is mounted on the mounting section 206 of the image forming apparatus 1, as shown. Figure 77 As shown. Figure 76 As shown, since the toner packet 2120 of this variant has the same shape as that of Example 2 except for the nozzle 202 shown in Example 2, the description of the toner packet except for the nozzle 2102B will be omitted.

[0510] In this variant of the nozzle 2102B, a cylindrical recess 2102Ba is provided coaxially with the central axis A on the first end side in the first direction D1. A surface 2102Bb perpendicular to the central axis A is provided on the second end side of the recess 2102Ba in the first direction D1. Figure 77 As shown in part (b), the toner package 2120 is mounted to the mounting portion 206 in the same manner as in Embodiment 2, and the through hole 203h located on the first end side of the package side baffle 203 in the first direction D1 and coaxial with the central axis A of the attachment 2102A engages with the cylindrical portion 2102Aa. It is sufficient as long as the through hole 203h is larger than the cylindrical portion 2102Aa. Subsequently, similarly, the recess 2102Ba of the nozzle 2102B engages (fits) with the cylindrical portion 2102Aa of the attachment 2102A, and the position of the nozzle 2102B relative to the attachment 2102A in the radial direction is determined. Furthermore, the surface 2102Bb of the nozzle 2102B abuts against the end surface 2102Ax of the attachment 2102A, thereby completing the mounting in the direction of arrow N. Then, in the same manner as in Embodiment 2, the toner in the receiving portion 2101 is replenished into the toner receiving chamber 36 of the developer container 32. After use, remove the toner packet 2120 in the same manner as in Example 2, and then remove accessory 2102A by overcoming the fastening force of cap 210.

[0511] The installation kit may include accessory 2102A and toner packet 2120 without protrusions.

[0512] The method of using the mounting kit has two steps. The first step is to move the accessory 2102A downward along the central axis in the state of orientation as described above to install the accessory 2102A onto the mounting part. The second step is the step following the first step, and it is the step of installing the toner pack 2120 onto the mounting part. Through the first step, the rotation restriction mechanism 212 of the equipment side baffle 209 is released from rotation. Through the second step, the toner pack 2120 is installed onto the mounting part 206 where the accessory 2102A is installed.

[0513] By transporting the toner pack as an installation kit, the packaging size of the toner pack 2120 in the direction of the central axis A can be reduced compared to the structure of Embodiment 2. When using the toner pack 2120, the rotation restriction mechanism 212 of the device side baffle 209 can be released as in other embodiments by pre-installing the accessory 2102A onto the image forming apparatus 1 by the user. When using the toner pack 2120, the rotation restriction mechanism 212 of the device side baffle 209 can be released as in other embodiments by pre-installing the accessory 2102A onto the toner pack 2120.

[0514] Next, Annex 21102A, which has a simpler structure than Annex 2102A, will be described.

[0515] Annex 2102A is described as having a structure by which the rotation restriction mechanism 212 can be released regardless of the initial phase of Annex 2102A to the mounting part 206 in the circumferential direction of the imaginary circle VC. However, a simpler structure such as Annex 21102A can also be used, which the user uses to align and mount the mounting part 206 in a manner that matches the phase of the mounting part 206 about the central axis A.

[0516] like Figure 78 As shown, the attachment 21102A is generally cylindrical, and a cylindrical portion 21102Aa and a protrusion 21102Ab (protrusion) are sequentially provided in the first direction D1. In the following text, in the first direction D1, the cylindrical portion 21102 side of the attachment 21102A is referred to as the first end, and the protrusion side is referred to as the second end.

[0517] The cylindrical portion 21102Aa has an inner circumferential surface 21102Ab1. In this variant, the inner circumferential surface 21102Ab1 is a cylindrical surface with a central axis A. As in Embodiment 2... Figure 71 As shown, the inner circumferential surface 21102Ab1 need not be a cylindrical surface, as long as it can define the central axis A. The protrusion 21102Ab has the same structure as the protrusion 202b of the nozzle 202 in Embodiment 2, such as... Figure 59 Part (b) Figure 59 Part (c) and Figure 60As shown. The first restriction release portion 21104a (first protrusion) and the second restriction release portion 21104b (second protrusion) of the protrusion 21102Ab have the same structure as the first restriction release portion 204a and the second restriction release portion 204b of Embodiment 2, and are constructed relative to the central axis A of the inner peripheral surface 21102Ab1. That is, the first inclined surface 21104a1, the second inclined surface 21104a2, the third inclined surface 21104a3, the cavity 21104a4, and the abutment surface 21104a5 of the protrusion 21102Ab have the same structure as the first inclined surface 204a1, the second inclined surface 204a2, the third inclined surface 204a3, the cavity 204a4, and the abutment surface 204a5, and are constructed with reference to the central axis A of the inner peripheral surface 2102Ab1. The second restriction release part 21104b has a shape that is 180 degrees rotationally symmetrical with respect to the rotation axis A to the first restriction release part 21104a, so its description will be omitted.

[0518] On the first end side of the cylindrical portion 21102Aa in the first direction D1, a triangular mark portion 21102Ac is provided at a position away from the central axis A, recessed towards the second end side in the first direction D1. Additionally, as... Figure 76 As shown, in the toner pack 2120 of this variant, to avoid interference with the accessory 21102A already mounted on the mounting section 206 when the toner pack 2120 is mounted on the mounting section 206, the nozzle 2102B is provided with a cylindrical recess 2102Ba. Other structures will be described below.

[0519] like Figure 77 As shown, the user positions the marking part 21102Ac facing the circumferential direction of an imaginary circle VC centered on the central axis A. Figure 67 The accessory 21102A is mounted to the mounting portion 206 via the operating section 208b of the operating lever 208 shown. This is because when mounting the accessory 21102A to the mounting portion 206, it is necessary to align the protrusion 21102Ab with the mounting portion 206 about the central axis A. The operation to release the rotation restriction of the mounting portion 206 is the same as described above, and therefore its description will be omitted.

[0520] Then, the user installs the toner pack 2120 onto the mounting section 206. Then, as in Embodiment 2, the rotation restriction mechanism 212 of the device side baffle 209 is released, and toner can be replenished from the toner pack 2120 into the toner receiving chamber 36 of the developer container 32.

[0521] Alternatively, the structure can be such that when using the toner pack 2120, the accessory 21102A is pre-installed onto the toner pack 2120. In this way, similar to Embodiment 2, the rotation restriction mechanism 212 of the device side baffle 209 can be released by attaching the toner pack 2120 to the mounting part 206. In this case, when the toner pack 2120 is oriented in a predetermined direction, the accessory 21102A is installed onto the lower end of the nozzle 2102B with a predetermined rotational phase. Thus, phase adjustment is not required when installing it onto the mounting part 206.

[0522] The structure of the protrusion 2102Ab in this variant example can be used not only for the protrusion 202b in Embodiment 2, but also for the variant example of Embodiment 2.

[0523] (Variant Example 2)

[0524] Next, refer to Figures 79 to 87 Another structure will be described. Points identical to those in the above embodiments and variants will be omitted. In particular, among the elements disclosed in this variant, those elements corresponding to the components described in Embodiment 2 and Variant 1 of Embodiment 2 are assigned the same names as the components in Embodiment 2 and Variant 1 of Embodiment 2, and only points different from those in Embodiment 2 and Variant 1 of Embodiment 2 will be described.

[0525] In Variation 1 of Embodiment 2, a mounting kit including a mounting portion 2102 (having a protrusion 2102Ab) and a toner bag 2120 (having a bag-side baffle 203 and a receiving portion 210) has been described. In the variation now described, a structure in which the accessory has a baffle (rotatable member) will be described. That is, this variation relates to a mounting kit including an accessory and a toner bag, the accessory including a baffle and a protruding member with a protrusion. However, using this mounting kit, as in Embodiment 2, the rotation restriction mechanism 212 of the device-side baffle 209 can be released, and toner can be replenished from the toner bag into the toner receiving chamber 36 of the developer container 32.

[0526] In this variant example, refer to Figure 79 , 80 Sections 81 and 82 will describe accessory 2230, which includes protruding member 2202 and baffle 2203. Figure 79 Part (a) and Figure 79 Part (b) is a perspective view and a side view of Annex 2230 of this variant. Figure 80 Parts (a) and (b) are perspective views of the baffle 2203 viewed from different directions. Figure 81 This is a perspective view of the protruding component 2202.

[0527] like Figure 79As shown in part (a), the accessory 2230 of this variant has a baffle (rotatable member) 2203 and a protruding member 2202 (projecting member). The baffle 2203 and the protruding member 2202 are arranged along a first direction D1.

[0528] refer to Figure 80 and 81 The structure of each component will be described in detail below. Here, except for the portion where the protruding member 2202 is mounted, the baffle 2203 of this variant has the same shape as the side baffle 203 of Embodiment 2, therefore only the mounting portion of the protruding member 2202 will be described. The baffle 2203 is rotatably mounted to the protruding member 2202 about a central axis A which is the axis of rotation. Furthermore, in the following text, in the first direction D1, the side of the baffle 2203 is referred to as the first end, and the side of the protruding member 2202 is referred to as the second end.

[0529] like Figure 80 As shown in part (a), the baffle 2203 has a generally cylindrical shape centered on a central axis A, and a hollow cylindrical portion 2203a, which is generally coaxial with the central axis A, is provided at its second end in the first direction D1. For the baffle 2203, inside the hollow cylindrical portion 2203a centered on the central axis A, a cylindrical surface 2203b and a through hole 2203c, both generally coaxial with the axis A, are sequentially provided from the first end in the first direction D1. The diameter of the through hole is smaller than that of the cylindrical surface 2203b. The hollow cylindrical portion 2203a has two engaging portions 2203k at positions that are 180 degrees rotationally symmetrical about the central axis A. The engaging portions 2203k are configured to protrude from the hollow cylindrical portion 2203A toward the first end in the first direction D1, and have claw portions 2203m protruding toward the central axis A. The claw portion 2203m faces the second end side in the first direction D1 and has a support surface 2203n that is substantially perpendicular to the central axis A. Additionally, surface 2203r is located on the central axis A side of the claw portion 2203m. Surface 2203r is arranged relative to the central axis A inside the cylindrical surface 2203b. The cylindrical surface 2203b and the through hole 2203c are connected by a surface 2203d that is substantially perpendicular to the central axis A. Figure 80As shown in part (b), surface 2203d has two recesses 2203e recessed towards the second end side in the first direction D1 at a position that is 180 degrees rotationally symmetrical about the central axis A. The recesses 2203e have a fan-shaped recessed shape centered on the central axis A, with the side closer to the central axis A in fluid communication with the through hole 2203c, while the side farther from the central axis A has a radius smaller than that of the cylindrical surface 2203b. Furthermore, the fan shape is approximately 90 degrees about the central axis A. Recesses 2203e have a surface 2203f intersecting the rotational direction D on the upstream side and a surface 2203g substantially intersecting the rotational direction D on the downstream side. A surface 2203h substantially perpendicular to the central axis A is provided at the second end side (bottom surface of the recess) of the recess 2203e in the first direction D1. Figure 83 As shown in part (b), the baffle 2203 is further provided with a driven transmission portion 2203u (rotatable member recess), which is recessed inward in the radial direction r on the side circumference centered on the central axis A. Furthermore, when viewed along the direction of the central axis A, the baffle opening 2203t (rotatable member opening) is located on the side opposite to the side where the driven transmission portion 2203u is provided, relative to the central axis A. The driven transmission portion 2203u has the same characteristics as in Embodiment 2. Figure 57 Part (b) and Figure 59 The driven transmission part 203b shown in part (a) has the same structure and function as the one in Embodiment 2. The baffle opening 2203t has the same structure and function as the one in Embodiment 2. Figure 57 Part (a) and Figure 61 The structure is the same as that shown in part (a) of opening 203a.

[0530] like Figure 81 As shown, the protruding member 2202 has a generally cylindrical shape centered on the central axis A, and is provided sequentially from the first end side in the first direction D1, including a first cylindrical portion 2202a, a second cylindrical portion 2202c with a diameter smaller than the first cylindrical portion 2202a, and a generally cylindrical protrusion 2202b (projection). The central axes of the first cylindrical portion 2202a and the second cylindrical portion 2202c of the protruding member 2202 coincide with the central axis A. Furthermore, the protruding member 2202 has an inner peripheral surface 2202b1 (guiding inner peripheral surface, positioning inner peripheral surface) centered on the central axis A. In this variant, the inner peripheral surface 2202b1 is a cylindrical surface with the central axis A. The inner peripheral surface 2202b1 is preferably a cylindrical surface or, as in Embodiment 2... Figure 71 The surface shown can define the central axis A.

[0531] The protrusion 2202b has the same characteristics as in Embodiment 2. Figure 59 Part (b) Figure 59 Part (c) and Figure 60 The protrusion 202b shown has the same shape. The first restriction release portion 2204a (first protrusion) and the second restriction release portion 2204b (second protrusion) of the protruding member 2202Ab in this variant example have the same structure as the first restriction release portion 204a and the second restriction release portion 204b in Embodiment 2, and are constructed with reference to the central axis A of the baffle 2203 as the axis of rotation. That is, the first inclined surface 2204a1, the second inclined surface 2204a2, the third inclined surface 2204a3, the cavity 2204a4, and the abutment surface 2204a5 of the protruding member 2202Ab have the same structure as the first inclined surface 204a1, the second inclined surface 204a2, the third inclined surface 204a3, the cavity 204a4, and the abutment surface 204a5 in Embodiment 2, and they are constructed with reference to the central axis A of the inner circumferential surface 2102Ab1. The second restriction release part 2204b has a shape that is 180 degrees rotationally symmetrical with respect to the rotation axis A to the first restriction release part 2204a, therefore its description will be omitted.

[0532] Two protrusions 2202e are provided at two locations that are 180 degrees rotationally symmetrical about the central axis A, protruding from the second end of the first cylindrical portion 2202a toward the first direction D1. The protrusions 2202e are located inside the outer shape of the first cylindrical portion 2202a in the radial direction r of an imaginary circle VC centered on the central axis A, and their central axis A side is connected to the second cylindrical portion 2202c. Each protrusion 2202e has an end surface 2202f that intersects the rotational direction D on its upstream side, and an end surface 2202g that intersects the rotational direction D on its downstream side.

[0533] In addition, such as Figure 79 As shown in part (b), when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation A with the baffle opening 2203t of the baffle 2203 facing forward, the protruding member 2202b is located inside the width of the baffle opening 2203t in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation A.

[0534] (Assembly)

[0535] Next, refer to Figure 82 and 83 The assembly of the baffle 2203 and the protruding member 2202 will be described. Figure 82 This is an exploded perspective view of Annex 2230 of this variant example. Figure 83 Part (a) and Figure 83 Part (b) is when the protruding member 2202 is placed in the first position relative to the baffle 2203, respectively along Figure 79 The sectional view taken by lines X2201-X2201 and X2202-X2202.

[0536] like Figure 82 As shown, the protruding member 2202 is disposed substantially coaxially with the central axis A from the first end side toward the baffle 2203 in the first direction D1. The protruding member 2202 is installed onto the baffle 2203 while the two engaging portions 2203k of the baffle 2203 are pushed in directions away from each other. Thereafter, the protruding member 2202 is supported by the baffle 2203 such that the second cylindrical portion 2202c is fitted into the through hole 2203c of the baffle 2203. Furthermore, the outer periphery of the first cylindrical portion 2202a of the protruding member 2202 is fitted with a slight tightness to the cylindrical surface 2203b of the baffle 2203.

[0537] like Figure 83 As shown in part (a), the first cylindrical portion 2202a of the protruding member 2202 abuts against the surface 2203d of the baffle 2203, and its positioning in the first direction D1 is achieved. Furthermore, the protruding member 2202 abuts against the support surface 2203n on the first end side of the engaging portion 2203k of the baffle 2203 in the first direction D1, and the hollow cylindrical portion 2203a is sandwiched between the surface 2203d and the support surface 2203n. Thus, the protruding member 2202 is restrained from disengaging from the baffle 2203 along the first direction D1.

[0538] On the other hand, such as Figure 83 As shown in part (b), in the direction of rotation about the central axis A, the end surface 2202g of the protrusion 2202e of the protruding member 2202 abuts against the surface 2203g of the baffle 2203. This position is referred to as the first position.

[0539] Here, the protruding member 2202 is supported so that it is rotatable relative to the baffle 2203 within a specific range of rotational direction centered on the central axis A. In other words, the protruding member 2202 is supported so that it can move between a first position and a second position relative to the baffle 2203 in the rotational direction centered on the axis of rotation A. When the protruding member 2202b is oriented in a predetermined direction to protrude downward (in the direction of gravity) and the central axis A is in the direction of gravity, the protruding member 2202 is supported by the baffle 2203 such that the protrusion 2202b protrudes beyond the lower surface of the baffle 2203, as shown below. Figure 83 As shown. Furthermore, as... Figure 83 Part (a) and Figure 79 As shown in part (b), when the protruding member 2202b protrudes downward and the central axis A is oriented in a predetermined direction facing the direction of gravity, as Figure 83 Part (a) and Figure 79 As shown in part (b), the protruding member 2202 is supported by the baffle 2203 so that it protrudes downward beyond the lower surface 2203v of the baffle 2203. Furthermore, as... Figure 83 As shown in part (b), when viewed from the direction of the central axis A, the protruding member 2202 (protrusion 2202b) is located in the radial direction r at a position closer to the central axis A than the driven transmission part 2203u of the baffle 2203.

[0540] (Installation of attachments)

[0541] That is, the attachment 2230 moves downward toward the mounting part 206 (in the direction of arrow N) in the state of being oriented in the aforementioned predetermined direction, and is mounted onto the mounting part 206.

[0542] at this time, Figure 83 Part (b) shows the driven transmission part 2203u of the baffle 2203 and the driven transmission part 209e (baffle protrusion, see part (b) of the equipment side baffle 209). Figure 44 The baffle opening 2203t of the baffle 2203 and the receiving opening 209a of the equipment side baffle 209 are in fluid communication with each other. In addition, the inner peripheral surface 2202b1 of the protrusion 2202b of the protruding member 2202 engages with the small diameter portion 209d2 of the central boss 209d of the mounting portion 206.

[0543] Similar to Embodiment 2, when the restriction release portion of the protruding member 2202b of Annex 2230 (identical to the protruding member 202b in Embodiment 2) acts on the release member 214 of the mounting portion 206, the rotation restriction mechanism 212 releases the rotation restriction on the equipment side baffle 209. Thereafter, as... Figure 41 Part (a) and Figure 41 The rotation of the operating lever 208 shown in part (b) causes the baffle 2203 to rotate together with the equipment-side baffle 209 in the direction of arrow D.

[0544] Reference Figure 84 and 85 The operation of accessory 2230 associated with the rotation of lever 208 from the closed position to the open position will be described in detail. Figure 84 Parts (a), (b), and (c) are enlarged side views of a portion of the mounting part 206 (cover 210, limiting member 213, releasing member 214) and the connection part of the accessory 2230, showing the operation of the accessory 2230. Figure 84 Part (a) is a side view when the operating lever 208 (not shown) is in the closed position. Figure 84 Part (b) is a side view when the operating lever 208 is between the closed and open positions. Figure 84 Part (c) is a side view when the lever 208 is in the open position. Figure 85 Parts (a), (b), and (c) are along Figure 84In part (a), the lines X2203-X2203 are respectively intercepted and... Figure 84 Part (a) Figure 84 Part (b) and Figure 84 The corresponding sectional view of part (c).

[0545] Figure 84 Part (a) and Figure 85 Part (a) shows the state where the accessory 2230 is mounted on the mounting part 206 and the operating lever 208 is in the closed position. At this time, similar to Embodiment 2, as the accessory 2230 is mounted on the mounting part 206, the restriction release part of the protruding member 2202b (the same as the protruding part 202b in Embodiment 2) acts on the release member 214 to release the rotation restriction implemented by the rotation restriction mechanism 212 of the equipment side baffle 209.

[0546] Next, as the operating lever 208 rotates, the baffle 2203 also rotates in the direction of arrow D and reaches... Figure 84 Part (b) and Figure 85 The state shown in part (b). At this time, as the baffle 2203 rotates, the protruding member 2202, which is fitted to the baffle 2203 with a slight tightness, also receives frictional force from the baffle 2203 and rotates in the direction of arrow D.

[0547] Here, since the protruding member 2202b engages with the release member 214, the release member 214 also rotates along with the protruding member 2202 in the direction of arrow D. The attachment 2230, rotating in the direction of arrow D, stops moving in the direction of rotation by the abutment between the rising restricted surface 214c and the restricted member 213. At this time, as... Figure 85 As shown in part (b), in the rotational direction centered on the central axis A, the protruding member 2202 is held in a first position where the end surface 2202g of the protruding member 2202e abuts against the surface 2203g of the baffle 2203.

[0548] Next, as the operating lever 208 overcomes the frictional force with the protruding member 2202 and rotates further in the direction of arrow D, the operating lever 208 is in the open position, as shown below. Figure 84 Part (c) and Figure 85 As shown in part (c). At this time, in the rotational direction about the central axis A, the end surface 2202g of the protruding member 2202 does not contact the surface 2203g of the baffle 2203. The position of the protruding member 2202 when the operating lever 208 is in the open position is the second position.

[0549] exist Figure 84 Part (c) and Figure 85 In the state shown in part (c), the receiving opening 209a of the device side baffle 209 is exposed. Then, as... Figure 86 As shown, the user can install the toner bag 2220, which is equipped with a straw-shaped discharge member 2220a, to the receiving opening 209a, and can supply the toner in the receiving part 2201 to the toner receiving chamber 36 of the developer container 32.

[0550] For example, such as Figure 87 As shown, the cover member 2250 can be configured to be installed on the attachment 2230 while the attachment 2230 is still installed on the mounting part 206.

[0551] When accessory 2230 is removed, the operating lever 208 rotates from the open position to the closed position in the direction of arrow E. Then, the operating lever 208, baffle 2203, protruding member 2202, and release member 214 are linked together to rotate in the direction of arrow E in the reverse order of the operation associated with the rotation from the closed position to the open position. At this time, the operating lever moves from the open position to the closed position, and the protruding member 2202 moves from the second position to the first position.

[0552] Subsequently, by proceeding in the same manner as in Example 2 along the direction of arrow G (see...) Figure 67 Pull out attachment 2230 and remove attachment 2230 from the mounting section 206.

[0553] As described above, similarly in the mounting kit including accessory 2230 (which has protruding member 2202 and baffle 2203) and toner pack 2220 (which has a receiving portion), the rotation restriction mechanism 212 on the device side baffle 209 can be released in a manner similar to that in Embodiment 2, and toner can be replenished from toner pack 2220 into the toner receiving chamber 36 of developer container 32.

[0554] Furthermore, in this variant, the protruding member 2202 is configured to move within a predetermined range relative to the mounting portion 206 in the rotational direction about the central axis A. However, the same effect can be provided even if the positioning portion used for positioning relative to the cover 210 in the rotational direction about the central axis A does not move, as in variant 1.

[0555] Furthermore, regarding the structure of the protruding member 2202b in this variant, the structure of this variant can be applied to the variant of Embodiment 2 and the protrusion 202b of Embodiment 2.

[0556] (Variant Example 3)

[0557] In this embodiment (Embodiment 2), the first inclined surface 204a1 and the second inclined surface 204a2 of the first restriction release part 204a are different inclined surfaces, while the second restriction release part 204b has the same structure. However, as Figure 88As shown, two inclined planes can have smooth, continuous surfaces. (Refer to...) Figures 88 to 91 As an example of this variant, the structure in this case will be described. In this variant, the first inclined surface 204a1 and the second inclined surface 204a2 of the first restriction release portion 204a and the first inclined surface 204a2 of the second restriction release portion 204b are changed to have smooth and continuous surfaces. Except for this change, the structure is the same as that of the second embodiment, and therefore its description will be omitted.

[0558] Figure 88 This is a diagram illustrating the specific shapes of the first restriction release part 2304a (first protrusion) and the second restriction release part 2304b (second protrusion) in this variant example. Figure 88 Part (a) is a perspective view of the first restriction release part 2304a and the second restriction release part 2304b as viewed from the second end side (nozzle side) in the first direction D1. Figure 88 Part (b) is a view of the first restriction release part 2304a as viewed in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis A. Figure 88 Part (c) is along Figure 88 The sectional view taken from line X2301-X2301 in part (b). Figure 88 Part (d) is a view of the first restriction release section 2304a as seen in the direction of arrow U (upward).

[0559] like Figure 88 As shown in part (a), the protrusion 2302b of the nozzle 2302 is provided with a restriction release part 2304 including a first restriction release part 2304a and a second restriction release part 2304b. The first restriction release part 2304a includes a first inclined surface 2304a1 (downward surface, downward guiding surface, downward force application surface, downward pushing surface), a second inclined surface 2304a2 (upward surface, upward guiding surface), and an abutting surface 2304a3 (downstream side end surface, abutted surface).

[0560] like Figure 88 As shown in part (b), the first inclined plane 2304a1 faces the direction of arrow N (downward), and it rises in the direction of arrow U (upward) as it travels along the rotation direction K (first rotation direction) about the rotation axis A.

[0561] Here, as Figure 88 Part (a) and Figure 88As shown in part (d), the end of the first inclined surface 2304a1 closer to the rotation axis A in the radial direction r of the imaginary circle VC centered on the rotation axis A is referred to as the inner end 2304a4 (inner edge line, inner ridge line). Furthermore, the inner end 2304a4 includes an inner upstream end 2304a4U (inner upstream edge line, inner upstream ridge line) located upstream in the rotation direction K, an inner downstream end 2304a4D (inner downstream edge line, inner downstream ridge line) located downstream, and an inner intermediate end 2304a4I (inner intermediate edge line, inner intermediate ridge line) connecting them. The inner downstream end 2304a4D is farther from the rotation axis A in the radial direction r of the imaginary circle VC centered on the rotation axis A than the inner upstream end 2304a4U. In this embodiment, as... Figure 88 As shown in part (d), when viewed along the axis of rotation A, the inner upstream end 2304a4U and the inner downstream end 2304a4D have a first arc and a second arc centered on the axis of rotation A, with the second arc having a radius greater than that of the first arc. The inner middle end 2304a4I extends in the radial direction r to connect the first arc and the second arc.

[0562] In addition, such as Figure 88 Part (a) and Figure 88 As shown in part (d), the end of the first inclined surface 2304a1 on the radial direction r of the imaginary circle VC centered on the rotation axis A, away from the rotation axis A, is referred to as the outer end 2304a5 (outer edge line, outer ridge line). Furthermore, the outer end 2304a5 includes an outer upstream end 2304a5U (outer upstream edge line, outer upstream ridge line) located upstream in the rotation direction K, an outer downstream end 2304a5D (outer downstream edge line, outer downstream ridge line) located downstream, and an outer intermediate end 2304a5I (outer intermediate edge line, outer intermediate ridge line) connecting them. The outer downstream end 2304a5D is located further away from the rotation axis A in the radial direction r of the imaginary circle VC centered on the rotation axis A than the outer upstream end 2304a5U. In this embodiment, as... Figure 88 As shown in part (d), when viewed along the axis of rotation A, the outer upstream end 2304a5U and the outer downstream end 2304a5D have a third arc and a fourth arc centered on the axis of rotation A, with the radius of the fourth arc being greater than the radius of the third arc. The outer middle end 2304a5I extends in the radial direction r to connect the third arc and the fourth arc.

[0563] like Figure 88 As shown in part (b), at least a portion of the second inclined surface 2304a2 is disposed on the arrow U direction (upward) side of at least a portion of the first inclined surface 2304a1.

[0564] like Figure 88As shown in part (c), the first inclined surface 2304a1 has an inner portion 2304a1I located inside the second inclined surface 2304a2 in the radial direction r of the imaginary circle VC centered on the rotation axis A. Additionally, the first inclined surface 2304a1 has an outer portion 2304a1O at a position substantially the same as the second inclined surface 2304a2 in the radial direction r of the imaginary circle VC centered on the rotation axis A. At this time, at least a portion of the inner portion 2304a1I and at least a portion of the outer portion 2304a1O overlap in the rotation direction K (see also...). Figure 88 Part (d)).

[0565] The abutment surface 2304a3 is disposed on the arrow U direction side (above) of the downstream end of the inner side portion 2304a1I of the first inclined surface in the rotation direction K. At least a portion of the inner side portion 2304a1I of the first inclined surface and at least a portion of the outer side portion 2304a1O of the first inclined surface overlap each other in the rotation direction K, so the abutment surface 2304a3 overlaps with the outer side portion 2304a1O of the first inclined surface in the rotation direction K.

[0566] like Figure 88 As shown in part (a), the second restriction release part 2304b has a first inclined surface 2304b1 (downward surface, downward guiding surface, downward force-applying surface), a second inclined surface 2304b2 (upward surface, upward guiding surface), and an abutment surface 2304b3. Here, the first restriction release part 2304a and the second restriction release part 2304b have a shape that is 180 degrees rotationally symmetrical with respect to the rotation axis A.

[0567] Next, refer to Figure 89 and 90 The mechanism described herein is a mechanism for releasing the rotation restriction of the equipment side baffle 209 implemented by the rotation restriction mechanism 212 by mounting the toner package 2320 of this variant onto the mounting part 206. Figure 89 The operation of rotating the release claw 214e via the first inclined surface 2304a1 of the first restriction release part 2304a is shown. Figure 89 Parts (a), (c), and (e) illustrate the process. Additionally, in Figure 89 In the middle, part (b) is Figure 89 Part (a) shows a sectional view taken along line X2302-X2302 in the state shown, and part (d) is... Figure 89 Part (c) shows a sectional view taken along line X2303-X2303 in the state shown, and part (f) is... Figure 89 The section view taken along line X2304-X2304 in the state shown in part (e). Figure 90The diagram illustrates the operation of the release claw 214e moving through the second inclined surface 2304a2 of the first restriction release part 2304a. For better illustration, only the nozzle 2302 (restriction release part 2304), the restriction member 213, and the release member 214 are shown in each section of this figure. Furthermore, in Figure 89 In part (c) of the figure, the hidden portion of the abutment surface 214a3 that overlaps with the axis of rotation A is clearly shown only by thin lines.

[0568] By installing toner pack 2320, such as Figure 89 As shown in part (a), the first inclined surface 2304a1 of the first restriction release part 2304a contacts the first guided surface 214e1 of the release claw 214e. At this time, as Figure 89 As shown in part (b), the first guided surface 214e1 of the release claw 214e contacts the inner side of the first inclined surface 2304a1I of the first restriction release part 2304a.

[0569] As the toner packet 2320 moves further from this position in the direction of arrow N (downward), the release member 214 operates in the same manner as in Embodiment 2. Figure 89 The rotation direction D is shown in part (a). That is, the release member 214 rotates in the rotation direction D by receiving a force while the first guided surface 214e1 is guided by the inner side of the first inclined surface 2304a1I. Then, as shown in part (a), Figure 89 As shown in part (c), the release member 214 is in a state of rotation along the rotation direction D until the first guided surface 214e1 passes the downstream end of the inner side portion 2304a1I of the first inclined surface in the rotation direction D. At this time, the contact between the first guided surface 214e1 of the release claw 214e and the first inclined surface 2304a1 of the first restriction release portion 2304a is released, and the rotation of the release claw 214e along the rotation direction D stops. In addition, as described above, the inner downstream end 2304a4D of the first restriction release portion 2304a is located further away from the rotation axis A than the inner upstream end 2304a4U in the radial direction r of the imaginary circle VC centered on the rotation axis A. Figure 88 Part (d)). Therefore, as Figure 89 As shown in part (d), there is a space S230 on the side (upper side) of the arrow G direction of the release claw 214e.

[0570] As the toner packet 2320 moves further from this position in the direction of arrow N (downward), the release claw 214e enters space S230 in the direction of arrow G (upward). At this time, the release spring 216 (see...) Figure 50 The torque M202 (pushing force) provided (e.g.) Figure 89As shown in part (c), the contact surface 214f ​​of the release claw 214e contacts the abutting surface 2304a3 of the first restriction release part 2304a. Thus, the release claw 214e is in a state where it is restricted to rotating in the rotational direction E. At this time, since the abutting surface 2304a3 of the first restriction release part 2304a overlaps with the outer portion 2304a1O of the first inclined surface in the rotational direction K, the outer portion 2304a1O of the first inclined surface overlaps with the second guided surface 214e2 of the release claw 214e in the rotational direction D. Then, as... Figure 89 As shown in section (e), the first inclined surface 2304a1 of the first restriction release part 2304a contacts the second guided surface 214e2 of the release claw 214e. At this time, as... Figure 89 As shown in part (f), the second guided surface 214e2 of the release claw 214e contacts the outer side of the first inclined surface 2304a1O of the first restriction release part 2304a.

[0571] As the toner packet 2320 moves further from this position in the direction of arrow N (downward), the release member 214 is released along the same path as in Embodiment 2. Figure 89 The component (e) rotates in the direction of rotation D. That is, the release member 214 rotates in the direction of rotation D by receiving force while the second guided surface 214e2 is guided by the outer side of the first inclined surface 2304a1O.

[0572] Then, the release member 214 rotates along the rotation direction D until the second guided surface 214e2 passes the downstream end of the outer side 2304a1O of the first inclined surface of the first restriction release part 2304a in the rotation direction D. In this variant, the operation up to this point is the first step.

[0573] After the first step, such as Figure 90 As shown in part (a), the third guided surface 214e3 of the release claw 214e rides on the downstream end of the second inclined surface 2304a2 of the first restriction release part 2304a in the rotation direction D. Thereafter, through the same operation as in embodiment 2, as... Figure 90 As shown in part (b), the contact surfaces 214a and 214f ​​of the release member 214 abut against the abutment surface 2304a3 of the first restriction release part 2304a. Thus, the restriction on the equipment side baffle (see [reference]) by the rotation restriction mechanism 212 is released. Figure 40 Rotational limitations.

[0574] As described above, in this variant, the first inclined surface 204a1 and the second inclined surface 204a2 of the first restriction release portion 2304a in the embodiment on which this variant is based have smooth and continuous surfaces, and the first inclined surface 204b1 and the second inclined surface of the second restriction release portion 204b in the basic embodiment are continuous with each other. Therefore, processing one surface is sufficient to provide two surfaces, thus reducing processing time is expected.

[0575] In this variant, the first inclined surface 2304a1 of the first restriction release part 2304a has an inner intermediate end 2304a4I located between the inner upstream end 2304a4U and the inner downstream end 2304a4D. This is because there is an abutment surface 2304a3. The same applies to the second restriction release part 2304b.

[0576] Next, another structure will be described. For example... Figure 91 As shown, the protrusion 23102b of the nozzle 23102 is provided with a restriction release portion 23104 including a first restriction release portion 23104a (first protrusion) and a second restriction release portion 23104b (second protrusion). The inner end 23104a4 (inner edge line, inner ridge line) of the first inclined surface 23104a1 of the first restriction release portion 23104a and the inner end 23104b4 (inner edge line, inner ridge line) of the first inclined surface 23104a1 of the second restriction release portion 23104b are smoothly continuous from the upstream side to the downstream side in the rotation direction K. In the following text, the first restriction release portion 23104a and the second restriction release portion 23104b have a shape that is 180° rotationally symmetrical about the rotation axis A, therefore only the first restriction release portion 23104a will be described. Figure 91 The shape of the first restriction release part 23104a is shown, part (a) is a perspective view viewed from the second end side (nozzle side) in the first direction D1, part (b) is a view viewed from the second end side (nozzle side) in the first direction D1, and part (c) is a view along... Figure 91 A sectional view taken from line X23104-X23104 in part (a).

[0577] like Figure 91As shown in part (a), the inner end 23104a4 extends smoothly and continuously outward from the radial direction r of the imaginary circle VC centered on the axis of rotation K, moving downstream in the direction of rotation K. Here, the inner end 23104a4 includes an inner upstream end 23104a4U (inner upstream edge line, inner upstream ridge line) and an inner downstream end 23104a4D (inner downstream edge line, inner downstream ridge line) located upstream in the direction of rotation K. The inner upstream end 23104a4U and the inner downstream end 23104a4D are smoothly and continuously extending ends. Similarly, the inner end 23104b4 includes an inner upstream end 23104b4U (inner upstream edge line, inner upstream ridge line) and an inner downstream end 23104b4D (inner downstream edge line, inner downstream ridge line) located upstream in the direction of rotation K. The inner upstream end 23104b4U and the inner downstream end 23104b4D are smoothly and continuously extending ends.

[0578] In addition, such as Figure 91 As shown in part (c), the first restriction release part 23104a includes a first abutting surface 23104a5 located on the arrow U direction side (above) of the inner end 23104a4 and a second abutting surface 23104a3 located on the arrow U direction side (above) of the second inclined surface 23104a2. Similarly, as Figure 91 As shown in part (c), the second restriction release part 23104b includes a first abutting surface 23104b5 located on the arrow U direction side (above) of the inner end 23104b4 and a second abutting surface 23104b3 located on the arrow U direction side (above) of the second inclined surface 23104b2.

[0579] Next, refer to Figure 92 The following describes a mechanism for releasing the rotational restriction on the device side baffle 209 by the rotational restriction mechanism 212 by installing the toner bag 23120 using a restriction release part 23104 having another shape of this variant. However, only the point of difference from this variant will be described, that is, only the operation after the release claw 214e rotates in the rotational direction D through the inner side portion 23104a1I of the first inclined surface of the first restriction release part 23104a to release contact with the inner side portion 23104a1I of the first inclined surface. Figure 92 This shows the state in which the release claw 214e has released the contact between the first restriction release part 23104a and the inner side part 23104a1I of the first inclined surface. Figure 92 Part (a) is a view taken along a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation A. Figure 92 Part (b) is along Figure 92 The sectional view taken by line X2306-X2306 in part (a), Figure 92 Part (c) is along Figure 92The cross-sectional view taken along line X2307-X2307 in part (a). Furthermore, for better illustration, only the nozzle 2302 (restriction release part 23104), restriction member 213, and release member 214 are shown in each figure. Additionally, in Figure 92 In part (c), the cross-sections of nozzle 2302 (restriction release part 23104) and release claw 214e (release member 214) are shaded.

[0580] exist Figure 92 In the state shown in part (a), in the release claw 214e, the contact between the first guided surface 214e1 and the inner side portion 23104a1I of the first inclined surface of the first restriction release portion 23104a is released, and rotation in the rotation direction D stops. Furthermore, as described above, the inner end 23104a4 of the first restriction release portion 23104a has a shape that, as it travels in the rotation direction D, moves outward in the radial direction r of an imaginary circle VC centered on the rotation axis A. Figure 91 Part (a)). Therefore, as Figure 92 As shown in part (b), there is a space S231 on the side (upper side) of the arrow G direction of the release claw 214e.

[0581] When the release pawl 214e enters space S231 in the direction of arrow G (upward), the release pawl 214e tends to pass through the release spring 216 (participating). Figure 50 The torque M202 (pushing force) generated causes the object to rotate in the direction of rotation E, such as... Figure 92 As shown in part (a). Then, as Figure 92 Part (b) and Figure 92 As shown in part (c), in the release claw 214e, the contact surface 214f ​​contacts the first abutment surface 23104a5 of the first restriction release part 23104a along the rotational direction E by a torque M202. As a result, the release claw 214e becomes a state in which rotation is restricted in the rotational direction E.

[0582] Here, in Figure 92 In the cross-section of part (c), the intersection point between the circumcircle C230 of the contact surface 214f ​​of the release claw 214e, centered on the rotation axis A, and the first abutting surface 23104a5 of the first restriction release part 23104a is the intersection point P230. Furthermore, the intersection point P230 is configured to overlap with the outer side 2304a1O of the first inclined surface of the first restriction release part 23104a relative to the rotation direction K. Moreover, since the contact point between the first abutting surface 23104a5 of the first restriction release part 23104a and the contact surface 214f ​​of the release claw 214e is the intersection point P230, therefore... Figure 92As shown in part (a), the second guided surface 214e2 of the release claw 214e overlaps with the outer side of the first inclined surface 23104a1O of the first restriction release part 23104a relative to the rotation direction D.

[0583] When the toner packet 23120 is from Figure 92 When the state shown is further moved in the direction of arrow N (downward), the outer part 2304a1O of the first inclined surface of the first restriction release part 23104a comes into contact with the second guided surface 214e2 of the release claw 214e. Thereafter, the rotation restriction mechanism 212 on the equipment side baffle 209 is released by the same operation as in this variant.

[0584] As described above, in the restriction release portion 23104 of this variant having the other shape, the inner upstream end 23104a4U and inner downstream end 23104a4D of the first restriction release portion 23104a of this variant form a smooth and continuous inner end. Furthermore, the inner upstream end 23104b4U and inner downstream end 23104b4D of the second restriction release portion 23104b form a smooth and continuous end (edge ​​line, ridge line). Therefore, the two ridge lines (surfaces) can be treated as a single ridge line (surface), and the effect of reducing processing time can be expected.

[0585] (Variant Example 4)

[0586] Next, refer to Figures 93 to 95 Another structure will be described. Points identical to those described in the above embodiments and variations will be omitted. Specifically, among the elements disclosed in this variation, those corresponding to the components described in Embodiment 2 are assigned the same names as the components of Embodiment 2, and only points different from Embodiment 2 will be described.

[0587] In Embodiment 2, the protrusion 202b (protrusion) is integrally provided on the nozzle 202. However, by providing protrusions in other components, it is also possible to make the reuse of protrusions with complex shapes easier, thereby improving reusability.

[0588] The structure in which the protrusion 202b is located on another component instead of the nozzle will be described below.

[0589] Figure 93 This is an external perspective view of the discharge unit 2402 of this variant example. Figure 94 This is an exploded perspective view of the discharge unit 2402 of this variant example. Figure 95 This is a perspective view of the toner bag 2420 on which the discharge unit 2402 of this variant is installed.

[0590] like Figure 93As shown, the discharge unit 2402 of this variant is cylindrical, and the nozzle 2402A (discharge section) and the support member 2402B are arranged substantially coaxially with the rotation axis A.

[0591] like Figure 94 As shown, in nozzle 2402A, a cylindrical portion 2402Aa and a disc portion 2402Ab with a diameter larger than that of the cylindrical portion 2402Aa are arranged substantially coaxially with the rotation axis A, starting from the first end side in the first direction D1. A toner feed portion 2402Ac, protruding towards the second end in the first direction D1, extends from the disc portion 2402Ab. The toner feed portion 2402Ac has a discharge surface 2402Ae at the second end side in the first direction D1, which is a surface extending in the direction of the rotation axis A.

[0592] A through-hole 2402Ad is provided in the nozzle 2402A, passing through the cylindrical portion 2402Aa, the disc portion 2402Ab, and the toner feed portion 2402Ac along the first direction D1 from the first end side, and is in fluid communication with the discharge surface 2402Ae in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation A. The portion of the through-hole 2402Ad that penetrates the discharge surface 2402Ae is referred to as the discharge opening 2402Ag (opening).

[0593] The support member 2402B is generally cylindrical and, starting from the first end side in the first direction D1, sequentially includes a first cylindrical portion 2402Ba, a disc portion 2402Bc with a diameter larger than that of the first cylindrical portion 2402Ba, and a second cylindrical portion 2402Be that is substantially coaxial with the rotation axis A. A protrusion 2402Bb protrudes from the end surface 2402Bg of the second cylindrical portion 2402Be in the direction of the rotation axis A.

[0594] The protrusion 2402Bb has the same shape as the protrusion 202b of the nozzle 202 in Embodiment 2, so its description will be omitted.

[0595] Furthermore, a through hole 2402Bd is provided in the support member 2402B, and extends from the first end side in the first direction D1 through the first cylindrical portion 2402Ba, the disk portion 2402Bc and the second cylindrical portion 2402Be, and extends to the side hole 2402Bf (side opening) of the second cylindrical portion 2402Be.

[0596] (Assembly of the discharge unit)

[0597] On the first end side of the nozzle 2402A in the first direction D1, the receiving portion 2401 is installed seamlessly to the cylindrical portion 2402Aa by means of bonding or the like (see Figure 95 ).

[0598] like Figure 94As shown, the nozzle 2402A is provided with a support member 2402B that extends substantially coaxially with the rotation axis A from its second end side in the first direction D1. In the support member 2402B, a first cylindrical portion 2402Ba is tightly fitted into a recess (not shown) provided in the disc portion 2402Ab of the nozzle 2402A. Thus, the support member 2402B is connected to the nozzle 2402A.

[0599] In the discharge unit 2402, which is connected to the nozzle 2402A and the support member 2402B, the discharge opening 2402Ag is located at a position substantially the same as the discharge opening 202A of the nozzle 202 in Embodiment 2.

[0600] like Figure 95 As shown, the toner bag 2420, in which at least a portion of the discharge unit 2402 is below the receiving portion 201 and the rotation axis A extends in the direction of gravity, is oriented (oriented in the mounting posture) in a predetermined direction. When the toner bag 2420 is oriented in the predetermined direction, the protrusion 2402Bb protrudes downward from the end surface 2402Bg (lower surface) of the support member 2402B. Furthermore, the protrusion 2402Bb is located below the discharge opening 2402Ag.

[0601] In addition, such as Figure 95 As shown, the package side baffle 203 is installed onto the discharge unit 2402 using the same method as in Example 2.

[0602] The method for installing / removing the mounting part 206 is the same as in Embodiment 2, so its description will be omitted.

[0603] As described above, the protrusion 202B can be provided on the support member 2402B, which is a different component from the nozzle 2402A. The nozzle 2402A and the support member 2402B are fixed by press fit and can be removed from each other relatively easily. Therefore, only the support member 2402B (which includes the protrusion 2402Bb with a complex shape) can be easily removed from the toner packet 2420. Therefore, the reuse of the support member 2402B including the protrusion 2402Bb can be facilitated, thereby improving reusability.

[0604] (Variant Example 5)

[0605] Next, refer to Figures 96 to 98 Another structure will be described. Points identical to those in the above embodiments and variations will be omitted. In particular, among the elements disclosed in this variation, those elements corresponding to the components described in Embodiment 2 are assigned the same names as the components in Embodiment 2, and only the points that differ from Embodiment 2 will be described.

[0606] Figure 96This is a perspective view of toner pack 2520 of this variant example. Figure 97 Part (a) is a perspective view of the nozzle 2502 of this variant. Figure 97 Part (b) is a cross-sectional view of the nozzle 2502 of this variant.

[0607] In Embodiment 2, the nozzle 202 has a side surface 202c extending in the direction of the rotation axis A (central axis), and a discharge opening 202a is provided on the side surface 202c. On the other hand, in this variant, the discharge opening 2502k2 is provided in the end surface of the cylindrical portion 2502k.

[0608] The nozzle 2502 of this variant example will be described.

[0609] like Figure 97 Part (a) and Figure 97 As shown in part (b), the nozzle 2502 of this variant includes a cylindrical portion 2502k (tube) and a main assembly portion 2502n (tube support member) supporting the cylindrical portion 2502k. The cylindrical portion 2502k is cylindrical, and a generally circular opening 2502k1 (receiving port) is arranged substantially coaxially with the rotation axis A at its first end side in the first direction D1. In addition, a substantially circular discharge opening 2502k2 (outlet) is provided at the end of the cylindrical portion 2502k opposite to the opening 2502k1. Figure 97 As shown in part (b), the discharge opening 2502k2 faces a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation A. In other words, as... Figure 97 As shown in part (a), the discharge opening 2502k2 faces outward in the radial direction r of an imaginary circle VC centered on the axis of rotation A. The opening 2502k1 and the discharge opening 2502k2 are in fluid communication with each other through a connecting channel 2502k3. The connecting channel 2502k3 is a cylindrical portion with a curved shape. That is, when the toner packet 2520 is oriented in the predetermined direction (direction of the mounting posture) in Embodiment 2, in the cylindrical portion 2502k, the opening 2502k1 faces upward, and the connecting channel 2502k3 faces outward in the radial direction r as it descends.

[0610] Furthermore, the main component portion 2502n of the nozzle 2502 is provided with a sloped portion 2502m that is further toward the first end side in the first direction D1 than the opening 2502k1. The sloped portion 2502m is in the form of a tapered slope that is substantially coaxial with the axis of rotation A, and is a slope that tilts toward the second end side in the first direction D1 as it travels toward the axis of rotation A.

[0611] The toner in the container 201 of the toner pack 2520 is discharged from the inclined section 2502m through the cylindrical section 2502k and through the discharge opening 2502k2, and is replenished into the toner container 36 of the developer container 32.

[0612] Furthermore, when the toner packet 2520 is oriented in a predetermined direction, the protrusion 2502b protrudes downward from the lower end surface (bottom surface) of the main component portion 2502n. The protrusion 2502b has the exact same shape as the protrusion 202b in Embodiment 2, therefore its description will be omitted.

[0613] In this variant, the structure is the same as in Example 2, except that nozzle 202 is replaced by nozzle 2502, so other descriptions will be omitted.

[0614] In this variant, the nozzle 2502 is described as having a structure in which a main component portion 2502n and a cylindrical portion 2502k are combined, but the cylindrical portion and the main component portion can be formed integrally. Furthermore, the cylindrical portion 2502k can be a non-deformable rigid component, or it can be formed from a component that is elastic and deformable.

[0615] Furthermore, although the discharge opening 2502k2 of the cylindrical portion 2502k is fixed to the outside in the radial direction r in this variant example, the present invention is not limited to such an example.

[0616] Reference Figure 98 and 99 The description will include a toner package 2530 comprising a nozzle 2503 (in which the direction of the discharge opening of the cylindrical portion is variable).

[0617] Using this structure, the protrusion 2503b and the beveled portion 2503m of the nozzle 2503 have the same shape as the protrusion 2502b and the beveled portion 2502m described above, so their description will be omitted.

[0618] Figure 98 Part (a) and Figure 98 Part (b) is a perspective view and a sectional view of the nozzle 2503 with the discharge opening 2503k2 of the cylindrical part 2503k facing downward (in the direction of the axis of rotation A) when the toner bag 2530 is oriented in a predetermined direction. Figure 99 Part (a) and Figure 99 Part (b) is a perspective view and a sectional view of the nozzle 2503 in the state where the discharge opening 2503k2 of the cylindrical part 2503k faces outward in the radial direction r.

[0619] The cylindrical section 2503k is flexible, and as... Figure 98 Part (a) and Figure 98As shown in part (b), the discharge opening 2503k2 faces downwards in its unused new state. The receiving opening 2503k1 for receiving toner from the receiving part 201 faces upwards. When the toner package 2530 is mounted on the mounting part 206, the user can change the orientation of the cylindrical part 2503k so that it faces outwards in the radial direction r. The discharge opening 2503k2 of the cylindrical part 2503k can be configured to face upwards or inwards in the radial direction r in its unused new state. That is, it is sufficient as long as the discharge opening 2503k2 is configured to face outwards in the radial direction r when the toner package 2530 is mounted on the mounting part 206.

[0620] (Variant Example 6)

[0621] In this embodiment 2, the first restriction release part 204a includes a first inclined surface 204a1, a second inclined surface 204a2, a third inclined surface 204a3, and an abutment surface 204a5, and the second restriction release part 204b has a structure that is 180 degrees rotationally symmetrical with respect to the rotation axis A (central axis) and the first restriction release part 204a. However, the present invention is not limited to this structure. In this variant, a structure in which the functions of the first restriction release part and the second restriction release part are separated will be described.

[0622] In this variant, the second restriction release part 2604b (second protrusion) is provided on the rotation axis A on the opposite side of the first restriction release part 2604a (first protrusion), and is provided at a different position from the first restriction release part 2604a in the circumferential direction of the imaginary circle VC. Figure 100 Part (c)). Furthermore, when viewed along the radial direction r of the imaginary circle VC, the first restriction release part 2604a and the second restriction release part 2604b overlap each other ( Figure 100 Part (b)).

[0623] like Figure 100 As shown in part (a), the first restriction release part 2604a includes a second inclined surface 2604a2 (a second downward surface, a second downward guiding surface, and a second force-applying surface), a third inclined surface 2604a3 (an upward surface and an upward guiding surface), and an abutment surface 2604a5. The second restriction release part 2604b includes a first inclined surface 2604b1 (a first downward surface and a first force-applying surface) and an abutment surface 2604b5. The first restriction release part 2604a does not include the inclined surface corresponding to the first inclined surface 2604b1, and the second restriction release part 2604b does not include the inclined surfaces corresponding to the second inclined surface 2604a2 and the third inclined surface 2604a3.

[0624] like Figure 65 Part (a) Figure 65 Part (b) and Figure 67As shown, the first inclined surface 2604b1 of the second restriction release part 2604b applies force while guiding the first guided surface 214e1 of the release member 214. As a result, when viewed along the direction of the rotation axis A, the release member 214 rotates along the rotation direction D until the second guided surface 214e2 and the third guided surface 214e3 of the release member 214 are exposed through the cover 210.

[0625] On the other hand, such as Figure 65 As shown in part (c), the second inclined surface 2604a2 of the first restriction release part 2604a rotates the release member 214 to a position where, when viewed along the direction of the rotation axis A, the rising restricted surface 214c does not overlap with the rising restriction surface 210e of the cover 210. Additionally, as... Figure 66 In part (a), the third inclined surface 2604a3 of the first restriction release part 2604 guides the release member 214, causing the release member 214 to move upward while being rotated in the rotation direction E.

[0626] As described above, a protrusion structure in which the functions of the first restriction release part 2604a and the second restriction release part 2604b are separated can be adopted.

[0627] (Variant Example 7)

[0628] Although the toner packet 220 of Example 2 includes a packet side baffle 203, it can have a structure that does not include the packet side baffle 203.

[0629] A method for supplying toner to an image forming apparatus by using a toner packet 220 without a side baffle 203 will be described.

[0630] Figure 101 Part (a) is a perspective view of toner bag 2820 without side baffles. Figure 101 Part (b) Figure 101 Part (c) and Figure 101 Part (d) shows the left, front, and right views of the toner bag 220 without the side baffle 203. The nozzle 2802 is provided with a discharge opening 2802a (opening, nozzle opening) and a protrusion 2802b. For better illustration, the shapes of the receiving portion 2801 and the nozzle 2802 are shown in a simplified manner, but they are exactly the same as in Embodiment 2. Instead of including the side baffle, a sealing member s1 seals the discharge opening 2802a of the nozzle 2802. One end of the sealing member s1 extends above the receivi...

Claims

1. A toner container capable of being mounted to and detached from a mounting portion of an image forming apparatus, the mounting portion including a rotatable guided member, the toner container comprising: The container is configured to hold the toner; The discharge section is configured to have an opening for discharging the toner in the receiving section to the outside of the toner container; A rotatable component that can rotate relative to the discharge section about a rotation axis in a first rotation direction and in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction; and The protrusion, when the toner container extends along its axis of rotation in the direction of gravity and at least a portion of the discharge portion is oriented in a predetermined direction below the receiving portion, is provided below the opening of the discharge portion and has an inner circumferential surface facing inward in the radial direction of an imaginary circle centered on the axis of rotation. The opening of the discharge section is configured to face outwards in the radial direction, and When the toner container is oriented along the predetermined direction, the protrusion has a downward-facing guiding surface and an upward-facing guiding surface. The downward-facing and upward-facing guiding surfaces are located outside the inner circumferential surface and inside the opening of the discharge section in the radial direction. When the toner container is moved downward toward the mounting portion along the direction of the rotation axis while the toner container is oriented in the predetermined direction, The downward guiding surface is configured to guide the guided member such that the guided member rotates about the axis of rotation in a first rotational direction, and The upward guiding surface is configured to guide the guided member after it has rotated along the first rotational direction via the downward guiding surface, causing the guided member to move upward.

2. The toner container according to claim 1, wherein, The rotatable component is located on the outer side of the discharge section in the radial direction.

3. The toner container according to claim 1, wherein, The rotatable member is capable of rotating about a rotation axis between a closed position for closing the opening and an open position for opening the opening, wherein the rotatable member is provided with a rotatable member opening for exposing the opening of the discharge section to the outside of the toner container when the rotatable member is in the open position.

4. The toner container according to claim 3, wherein, The direction of rotation of the rotatable component from the closed position to the open position is the first rotation direction.

5. The toner container according to claim 4, further comprising a seal for sealing between the rotatable member and the discharge portion when the rotatable member is in the closed position.

6. The toner container according to claim 3, wherein, The mounting portion includes a positioning portion protruding inward in the radial direction. The discharge portion includes a positioned portion having a first opposing surface and a second opposing surface on its outer surface extending along the rotation axis. The first opposing surface and the second opposing surface extend in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis and are opposite to each other with a gap between them. The positioned portion is configured to engage with the positioning portion of the mounting portion when the toner container is mounted on the mounting portion. When the rotatable component is in the closed position, the positioned part of the discharge section is exposed to the outside of the toner container through the opening of the rotatable component.

7. The toner container according to claim 3, wherein, The mounting section includes a side baffle, which is cylindrical, has an open upper portion, and is rotatable about a rotation axis. The side baffle has an opening in its side surface portion extending along the rotation axis, and a baffle protrusion protruding inwardly in the radial direction is provided in a region of the side surface portion opposite the opening in the radial direction. With the toner container installed on the mounting section... The rotatable member has a rotatable member opening in the rotatable member side surface portion extending along the rotation axis, which is configured to be in fluid communication with the opening of the equipment side baffle in the radial direction, and a recess that is recessed in the radial direction and can engage with the baffle protrusion of the equipment side baffle.

8. The toner container according to claim 7, wherein, The guided component is arranged radially closer to the axis of rotation than the baffle protrusion on the side surface of the equipment side baffle. When the toner container is viewed along the axis of rotation, the protrusion is closer to the axis of rotation in the radial direction than the recess of the rotatable component.

9. The toner container according to claim 7, wherein, The guided component is located below the opening of the equipment side baffle in the direction of the rotation axis, and When the toner container is oriented in a predetermined direction, the protrusion protrudes downward relative to the lower surface of the toner container.

10. The toner container according to claim 1, wherein, When the toner container is oriented in a predetermined direction, the protrusion is configured to project downwards from the bottom surface of the discharge section, and The protrusion extends downward beyond the lower surface of the rotatable component through a hole provided in the lower surface of the rotatable component.

11. The toner container according to claim 1, wherein, The downward guiding surface is configured to contact the contacted portion of the guided member when the toner container is moved downward toward the mounting portion along the rotation axis in a state where the toner container is oriented in a predetermined direction, so as to push the guided member and thereby rotate the guided member in the first rotation direction.

12. The toner container according to claim 11, wherein, The downward guiding surface extends in a manner that rises as it ascends in the first rotational direction.

13. The toner container according to claim 1, wherein, The upward guiding surface is configured to guide the guided member so as to move the guided member upward while the guided member rotates in the second rotational direction.

14. The toner container according to claim 1, wherein, The mounting section includes a pushing member for pushing the guided member in a direction that causes the guided member to rotate in a second rotational direction. The upward guiding surface is configured to guide the guided member, such that the guided member moves upward while rotating in the second rotation direction due to the pushing force of the pushing member.

15. The toner container according to claim 13, wherein, The upward guiding surface extends in a manner that rises as it travels in the second rotational direction.

16. The toner container according to claim 1, wherein, The guided member has a contact surface that serves as the downstream end surface in the second rotational direction, and The protrusion includes a contact surface configured to stop the rotation of the guided member in the second rotation direction by contacting the contact surface of the guided member, which is being guided by the upward guiding surface and is rotating in the second rotation direction.

Images