Imaging equipment

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an imaging device, which includes a main component; an openable member provided with a to-be-engaged portion for covering a mounting portion; an engaging member provided on the main component for engaging with the to-be-engaged portion of the openable member positioned at a closed position so as to limit the movement of the openable member relative to the main component; a locking portion for locking the engaging member in an engaged state with the to-be-engaged portion by limiting the movement of the engaging member; an electric drive portion for unlocking the locking portion; a determining portion for determining that an installed consumable is in a replacement state in which the consumable is to be replaced; and a controller for driving the electric drive portion to unlock the locking portion when the controller receives a signal from the determining portion for determining that the consumable is in the replacement state.

Description

[0001] This divisional application is a divisional application based on the Chinese patent application with application number 202010052688.3, ​​application date January 17, 2020, and invention name “Imaging Device”. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus capable of mounting and dismounting consumables such as a developer cartridge for supplying a developer for image formation. Background Art

[0003] In an image forming apparatus such as a laser printer, inkjet printer, or copier, when a developer cartridge for supplying developer for image formation has run out, a user or maintenance worker replaces the developer cartridge with a new (unused) developer cartridge.

[0004] In this replacement operation, generally a user (serviceman) opens an openable cover of the apparatus main assembly and can access the interior of the apparatus main assembly, and then replaces the developer cartridge (US Pat. No. 6,768,877).

[0005] In such replacement of the developer cartridge, in some cases, the user mistakenly opens the openable cover before the developer in the developer cartridge is completely consumed, and replaces the still usable developer cartridge.

[0006] However, early replacement of, for example, a still usable developer cartridge results in excessively high costs for the user. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present invention has been accomplished in view of the above circumstances. A primary object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of preventing premature replacement of still usable consumables such as a developer cartridge.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, an imaging device is provided, which includes: a main component; an openable member, which is provided with a to-be-engaged portion and is configured to cover a mounting portion on which a consumable for imaging is installed; an engaging member, which is provided on the main component and is configured to engage with the to-be-engaged portion of the openable member positioned in a closed position so as to limit the movement of the openable member relative to the main component; a locking portion, which is configured to lock the engaging member in an engaged state with the to-be-engaged portion by limiting the movement of the engaging member; an electric drive portion, which is configured to unlock the locking portion; a determining portion, which is configured to determine that the installed consumable is in a replacement state in which the consumable is to be replaced; and a controller, which is configured to drive the electric drive portion to unlock the locking portion when the controller receives a signal from the determining portion for determining that the consumable is in the replacement state.

[0009] Further features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the attached drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 is a schematic front sectional view of the printer according to the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the printer according to the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 3 Parts (a) and (b) are perspective views of a main portion of the openable cover holding mechanism in the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 4 Parts (a) and (b) are sectional views of a driving portion of the locking mechanism for locking the openable cover in the closed state in the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 5 Parts (a) and (b) are sectional views for explaining the locking operation of the locking mechanism for locking the openable cover in the closed state in the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 6 Parts (a) and (b) are sectional views for explaining the lock releasing operation of the lock mechanism for locking the openable cover in the closed state in the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 7 Parts (a) to (d) are perspective views of the operation detection mechanism for detecting the opening operation of the openable cover in the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 8is a circuit block diagram showing the configuration of control in the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 9 In the first embodiment Figure 8 Flowchart of the control circuit.

[0019] Figure 10 In the first embodiment Figure 8 Flowchart of the control circuit.

[0020] Figure 11 Parts (a) and (b) are perspective views of a main portion for explaining a structure for manually releasing (canceling) the locking mechanism for locking the openable cover in the closed state in the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a printer according to a second embodiment.

[0022] Figure 13 Parts (a) and (b) are along Figure 12 AA line cross-sectional view showing a state in which the locking mechanism for locking the openable cover in the closed state in the second embodiment is released.

[0023] Figure 14 Parts (a) and (b) are along Figure 12 AA line cross-sectional view showing a state in which the locking mechanism for locking the openable cover in the closed state in the second embodiment is in a locked state.

[0024] Figure 15 In the second embodiment Figure 13 Exploded perspective view of the main parts.

[0025] Figure 16 In the second embodiment Figure 13 An enlarged exploded perspective view of the main parts.

[0026] Figure 17 Parts (a) and (b) are along Figure 12 AA line cross-sectional view showing a state in which the locking mechanism for locking the openable cover in the closed state in the third embodiment is released.

[0027] Figure 18 Parts (a) and (b) are along Figure 12 AA line cross-sectional view showing a state in which the locking mechanism for locking the openable cover in the closed state in the third embodiment is in a locked state.

[0028] Figure 19 In the third embodiment Figure 17 Exploded perspective view of the main parts.

[0029] Figure 20 is a schematic sectional view of an imaging apparatus according to a fourth embodiment.

[0030] Figure 21 Parts (a) and (b) are perspective views of an imaging apparatus according to a fourth embodiment.

[0031] Figure 22 Parts (a) and (b) are perspective views of an imaging apparatus according to a fourth embodiment.

[0032] Figure 23 Parts (a) and (b) are enlarged perspective views showing the latch member and its periphery in the fourth embodiment.

[0033] Figure 24 Part (a) is a perspective view of the restriction unit in the fourth embodiment, and Figure 24 Part (b) is an exploded perspective view of the restriction unit.

[0034] Figure 25 Part (a) is a front view of the restriction unit in the fourth embodiment, and Figure 25 Part (b) is a top view (plan view) of the confinement unit.

[0035] Figure 26 Parts (a) and (b) are schematic diagrams of the restriction unit when the stop member is positioned at the restriction position and the button is pressed in the fourth embodiment, where part (a) is a front view and part (b) is a top view.

[0036] Figure 27 1 is a perspective view of the restriction unit and the latch member when the stopper member is positioned at the restriction position and the button is pressed in the fourth embodiment.

[0037] Figure 28 Parts (a) and (b) are schematic diagrams of the restriction unit when the stop member is positioned at the release position and the button is pressed in the fourth embodiment, where part (a) is a front view and part (b) is a top view.

[0038] Figure 29 is a perspective view of the restriction unit and the latch member when the stopper member is positioned at the release position and the button is pressed in the fourth embodiment.

[0039] Figure 30 is a block diagram showing the system configuration of the fourth embodiment.

[0040] Figure 31 is a flowchart of the cartridge replacement sequence in the fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following embodiments, the constituent elements are examples, and various conditions such as the structure, function, material, shape, relative arrangement, etc. of the device to which the present invention can be applied can be appropriately modified or changed within the scope of the present invention, and are not limited to those in the following embodiments. For example, in the following embodiments, a color laser printer using an electrophotographic imaging process will be described as an imaging device, but the present invention is not limited to imaging devices using an electrophotographic imaging process, but may also be another type of imaging device (e.g., an inkjet type).

[0042] [First embodiment]

[0043] Figure 1 is a schematic front sectional view of a color laser printer as an image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0044] exist Figure 1 In the present invention, printer 1100 includes an image forming unit 1100A for forming images using an electrophotographic process. Image forming unit 1100A includes four photosensitive drums 1101Y, 1101M, 1101C, and 1101K for forming toner images of four colors: yellow, magenta, cyan, and black. Image forming unit 1100A also includes an endless intermediate transfer belt 1102. The intermediate transfer belt 1102 is in contact with the four photosensitive drums 1101Y, 1101M, 1101C, and 1101K, and the toner images formed on the photosensitive drums 1101Y, 1101M, 1101C, and 1101K are primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 1102.

[0045] The image forming section 1100A further includes primary transfer rollers 1106Y, 1106M, 1106C, and 1106K for forming nips between the intermediate transfer belt 1102 and the respective photosensitive drums 1101Y, 1101M, 1101C, and 1101K from the inner peripheral side of the intermediate transfer belt 1106. These primary transfer rollers 1106Y, 1106M, 1106C, and 1106K primarily transfer the toner image onto the intermediate transfer belt 1102 by generating a potential difference between the intermediate transfer belt 1102 and the photosensitive drums 1101Y, 1101M, 1101C, and 1101K, respectively. Furthermore, the image forming portion 1100A includes a secondary transfer roller 1105 that forms a nip between itself and the intermediate transfer belt 1102 and secondarily transfers an image from the intermediate transfer belt 1102 onto a sheet 1114 such as printing paper.

[0046] When the imaging operation starts in the imaging part 1100A, the photosensitive drums 1101Y, 1101M, 1101C and 1101K are irradiated with light beams (light) through the laser scanner 1103 according to the image signal, so that latent images are formed on the photosensitive drums 1101Y, 1101M, 1101C and 1101K.

[0047] Next, the latent images are developed using toner contained in developing cartridges (developer cartridges) 1104Y, 1104M, 1104C, and 1104K each including a developing roller, so that toner images (visible images) are formed on the photosensitive drums 1101Y, 1101M, 1101C, and 1101K.

[0048] The toner images formed on the photosensitive drums 1101Y, 1101M, 1101C, and 1101K are primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 1102 , and the toner images primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 1102 are fed by the intermediate transfer belt 1102 to a secondary transfer portion.

[0049] In parallel with the above-described toner image forming operation, sheets 1114 are fed one by one from the sheet accommodating portion 1107 by a pickup roller 1108. Subsequently, the sheet 1114 is fed to a secondary transfer portion formed by a nip between the intermediate transfer belt 1102 and the secondary transfer roller 1105 by a feed roller 1109 and a registration roller 1110 for correcting tilting movement of the sheet 1114.

[0050] Here, the sheet 1114 is required to align its position relative to the sheet feeding direction with the toner image formed on the intermediate transfer belt 1102. Therefore, the sheet feeding speed is controlled by the registration roller 1110 and the feed roller 1109 so that the feeding operation of the sheet 1114 is timed with respect to the toner image formed on the intermediate transfer belt 1102. Subsequently, by applying a bias voltage to the secondary transfer roller 1105 at the secondary transfer portion, the toner image is transferred from the intermediate transfer belt 1102 to the sheet 1114.

[0051] The sheet 1114 on which the colorant image is transferred is fed to the fixing portion 1111 and is heated and pressurized in the fixing portion 1111 so that the colorant image is fixed on the sheet 1114 and the sheet 1114 is discharged by the discharge roller 1112 to the discharge portion 1113 at the upper portion of the printer 1100.

[0052] The photosensitive drums 1101Y, 1101M, 1101C, and 1101K and the developing cartridges 1104Y, 1104M, 1104C, and 1104K are consumables and are therefore configured to be mountable in and detachable from a mounting portion of the printer 1100. Furthermore, the developing cartridges 1104Y, 1104M, 1104C, and 1104K are each provided with a known remaining toner amount detection sensor so that the remaining toner amount in each developing cartridge is monitored.

[0053] Figure 2 11 is a perspective view showing a state in which the openable cover 11 of the printer 1100 for allowing replacement of the photosensitive drums 1101Y, 1101M, 1101C, and 1101K and the developing cartridges 1104Y, 1104M, 1104C, and 1104K is opened.

[0054] exist Figure 2 Therefore, by opening the openable cover 11 covering the mounting portion, the photosensitive drums 1101Y, 1101M, 1101C and 1101K and the developing cartridges 1104Y, 1104M, 1104C and 1104K can be mounted and dismounted in the direction in which the openable cover 11 is opened.

[0055] In a state where the openable cover 11 is closed, the openable cover 11 is held in a closed state by locking latch locking portions 11a and 11b of the openable cover 11 by latch portions 14b and 14c, which are holding portions provided on the main assembly of the printer 1100, respectively.

[0056] The operating portion 12 is an operating portion for releasing the lock (locking) of the latch lock portions 11a and 11b of the openable cover 11, and is a lever that is pulled forward when the openable cover 11 is opened. When the operating portion 12 is pulled forward, the latch portions 14b and 14c slide (move) in conjunction with each other and release the lock of the latch lock portions 11a and 11b of the openable cover 11, so that the openable cover 11 is in the open state.

[0057] The operation panel 114 is a user interface of the printer 1100 and is used to perform various displays and operation inputs.

[0058] Figure 3 Parts (a) and (b) show the operation for when Figure 12 The operating portion 12 is a mechanism for releasing the locking of the latch locking portions 11a and 11b of the openable cover 11 through the latch portions 14b and 14c. Figure 3 Part (a) is a perspective view of a main portion showing a state in which the latch portions 14b and 14c lock the latch locking portions 11a and 11b of the openable cover 11, and Figure 3Part (b) is a perspective view of a main portion showing a state in which the latch portions 14 b and 14 c release the locking of the latch locking portions 11 a and 11 b of the openable cover 11 .

[0059] exist Figure 3 In parts (a) and (b), the latch 14 is composed of a locking shaft 14a, a latch portion 14b, and a latch portion 14c, and these parts move integrally with each other. The latch spring 15 pushes the latch 14 in the direction of arrow R, in which the latch portions 14b and 14c lock the latch locking portions 11a and 11b of the openable cover 11.

[0060] When the handle portion 12a of the operating portion 12 is Figure 3 The state in which the latch 14 shown in the portion (a) of FIG. 1 locks the latch locking portions 11a and 11b of the openable cover 11 is as shown in FIG. Figure 3 When the operating portion 12 is pulled in the direction of arrow D shown in part (b), the operating portion 12 rotates around the operating rotation axis 12b in the direction of arrow D. Figure 3 When the first arm 16b of the connecting member 16 of the movable portion shown in part (a) is moved, the connecting member 16 is caused to rotate in the arrow E direction around the rotation axis 40.

[0061] By this rotation, the second arm 16c of the connecting member 16 pushes the to-be-pushed portion 14d of the latch 14 in the direction of arrow L, overcoming the urging force of the latch spring 15. When the connecting member 16 rotates (moves) to a predetermined position in the direction of arrow E, the latch 14 slides (moves) to a lock release position in which the latch portions 14b and 14c release the lock of the latch locking portions 11a and 11b of the openable cover 11. As a result, the openable cover 11 opens in the direction of arrow F.

[0062] Figure 4 Parts (a) and (b) show a driving portion of the locking mechanism, which is used to lock the openable cover 11 in the closed state by making the locking of the latch locking portions 11a and 11b of the openable cover 11 by the latch portions 14b and 14c impossible to release. Figure 4 Part (a) is a sectional view showing a locked state of a driving portion of the locking mechanism, and Figure 4 Part (b) is a sectional view showing a lock release state of the driving portion of the lock mechanism.

[0063] exist Figure 4In parts (a) and (b), the lock lever 17, which constitutes the locking portion and the restricting portion, is rotatably held about the rotation axis 141, and one end thereof is pulled in the direction of arrow G by the lock spring 18, which serves as an urging member, causing the lock lever 17 to rotate in the direction of arrow H. On the other hand, a configuration is adopted in which the other end of the lock lever 17 is pulled in the direction of arrow J by the solenoid 111, which constitutes the electric drive portion, and thus rotates in the direction of arrow K. Subsequently, position control of the locked position and the lock release position is performed based on the balance between the magnitude of the urging force of the lock spring 18 and the attractive force of the solenoid 111, and the locking mechanism is constituted by these members.

[0064] Pulling of the lock lever 17 in the arrow J direction by the solenoid 111 is performed by the plunger 111 a pulled by the magnetic force of the solenoid 111 pulling the lock lever 17 through the spring pin 111 b .

[0065] exist Figure 4 In the locked state shown in part (a) of FIG, the force relationship between the urging force of the lock spring 18 and the attractive force based on the magnetic force of the solenoid 111 is "(urging force of the lock spring 18) > (attractive force of the solenoid 111)". Therefore, the lock lever 17 is pulled in the direction of arrow G and rotated in the direction of arrow H, so that the locked position is determined at the position where the lock lever 17 abuts against the rotation stopper 16.

[0066] exist Figure 4 In the lock release state shown in part (b) of FIG, when the magnetic force is increased by inputting an attraction command to the solenoid 111, the force relationship between the urging force of the lock spring 18 and the attraction force based on the magnetic force of the solenoid 111 is "(urging force of the lock spring 18) < (attractive force of the solenoid 111)". Therefore, the plunger 111a is pressed downward in the direction of arrow J, and the lock lever 17 is pulled by the plunger 111a and rotated in the direction of arrow K, so that the lock lever 17 moves to the lock release position.

[0067] Figure 5 Parts (a) and (b) show the locking operation of the locking mechanism for locking the openable cover 11 in the closed state. Figure 5 Part (a) is a sectional view showing a state before the openable cover 11 is opened by the operating portion 12, and Figure 5 Part (b) is a sectional view showing a state in which the openable cover 11 is opened by the operating portion 12 .

[0068] When the locking mechanism is in the locked state and as referenced Figure 3 When the operating portion 12 is operated to open the openable cover 11, the connecting member 16 rotates in the direction of arrow E in conjunction with the operation of the operating portion 12, so that the connecting member 16 rotates from Figure 5The position of part (a) is moved to Figure 5 The position of part (b).

[0069] exist Figure 5 In the state of part (b), as described above, the lock lever 17 is rotated in the arrow H direction by the lock spring 18, and therefore, the lock lever 17 abuts against the abutment surface 16a of the connecting member 16, so that the rotational movement of the connecting member 16 is restricted. Figure 5 In the state of part (b) of the connecting member 16, the second arm 16c of the connecting member 16 is in a position forward of the position where the second arm 16c pushes the to-be-pushed portion 14d of the latch 14, and therefore the latch 14 cannot slide (move) to the lock release position where the locking of the latch locking portions 11a and 11b of the openable cover 11 is released by the latch portions 14b and 14c. That is, the locking of the openable cover 11 cannot be released, and therefore, the openable cover 11 is not opened.

[0070] Figure 6 Parts (a) and (b) of FIG. 1 show a lock-releasing operation of the lock mechanism for locking the openable cover 11 in the closed state. Figure 6 Part (a) is a sectional view showing a state before the openable cover 11 is opened by the operating portion 12, and Figure 6 Part (b) is a sectional view showing a state in which the openable cover 11 is opened by the operating portion 12 .

[0071] When the locking mechanism is in the lock release state and as reference Figure 3 When the operating portion 12 is operated to open the openable cover 11, the connecting member 16 rotates in the direction of arrow E in conjunction with the operation of the operating portion 12, so that the connecting member 16 rotates from Figure 5 The position of part (a) is moved to Figure 6 The position of part (b).

[0072] exist Figure 6 In the state of part (b), as described above, the lock lever 17 is rotated in the direction of arrow K by the attractive force of the solenoid 111, and thus, the lock lever 17 is retracted from the restricted position where the lock lever 17 abuts against the abutment surface 16a of the connecting member 16, so that the rotational movement of the connecting member 16 is not restricted. Therefore, the second arm 16c of the connecting member 16 can push the to-be-pushed portion 14d of the latch 14, and thus, the latch 14 can slide (move) to the lock release position, so that the latch portions 14b and 14c can release the lock of the latch locking portions 11a and 11b of the openable cover 11. That is, the lock of the openable cover 11 can be released, and thus, the openable cover 11 is opened.

[0073] Figure 7Parts (a) to (d) show the operation detection mechanism, wherein part (a) is a perspective view showing the entire operation detection mechanism including the locking mechanism, and parts (b), (c) and (d) are perspective views showing main parts of the operation detection mechanism.

[0074] exist Figure 7 In parts (a) to (d), the switch lever 110 for pressing the operation detection switch 19 for detecting that the operation part 12 is operated is rotatably held around a rotation axis 141 coaxial with the locking lever 17 and engages with the third arm 6d of the connecting member 16 at the engaging surface 16a.

[0075] In a state where the operating portion 12 is not operated, as shown in FIG. Figure 7 As shown in part (b), the switch lever 110 is not pressed to operate the detection switch 19.

[0076] Figure 7 The state of part (c) is the state of the switch lever 110 when the operating portion 12 is operated in the locked state in which the openable cover 11 is locked in the closed state, and thus the switch lever 110 is in the state with the openable cover 11 locked in the closed state. Figure 5 The engagement surface 110a of the switch lever 110 is pressed by the rotating third arm 16d of the connecting member 16, so that the operation detection switch 19 is pressed by the switch lever 110. When the operation detection switch 19 is pressed to the on position, its signal is sent to the control circuit described later, and the operation of the operating portion 12 is detected.

[0077] Figure 7 The state of part (d) is the state of the switch lever 110 when the operating portion 12 is operated in the lock release state in which the lock of the openable cover 11 is released in the closed state, and thus the switch lever 110 is in the state with the openable cover 11 in the closed state. Figure 6 The rotation position of the connecting member 16 is changed from Figure 7 The state of part (c) of the connecting member 16 is moved to a further advanced position, and therefore, the engagement position of the arm 16d with the switch lever 110 is moved from the engagement surface 110a to the engagement surface 110b. The engagement surface 110b has an arcuate shape concentric with the rotation axis 140 and contacts the third arm 6d, and therefore, even when the rotation amount of the connecting member 16 increases, the amount of pressing of the operation detection switch 19 by the switch lever 110 is constant.

[0078] Therefore, whether the lock mechanism that locks the openable cover 11 in the closed state is in the locked state or the lock mechanism is in the lock released state, when the operating portion 2 is operated, the switch lever 110 can detect the operation of the operating portion 2 .

[0079] By the way, when Figures 5 to 7As shown, when the locking and release control of the lock mechanism for locking the openable cover 11 in the closed state is performed, the solenoid 111 is controlled by applying a current for operating the plunger 111a to generate a magnetic field. However, there is a possibility that the generation of a magnetic field may cause erroneous operation, etc. when a patient using a pacemaker is located near the printer 1100, and therefore it is not preferable in some cases. Therefore, the solenoid 111 is controlled by Figure 7 The solenoid shown in part (a) is kept covered with a metal plate so that the projected cross section including the operating area of ​​the plunger 111a is completely covered, and therefore, magnetic radiation is shielded.

[0080] Figure 8 : is a circuit block diagram showing a control configuration in this embodiment.

[0081] exist Figure 8 In the embodiment, the control circuit 1101 as a controller is composed of a CPU for controlling the entire circuit, and the operation detection circuit 1202 detects that the operation section 12 is operated and thus the operation detection switch 19 is turned on. The openable cover closing detection section 1203 as a closing detection section detects that the openable cover 11 is closed, and a display driving circuit 1204 is provided for driving the display. Figure 2 The circuit further includes a remaining toner amount detection circuit 1205 as a determination portion for detecting (determining) the remaining toner amounts of the developing cartridges 1104Y, 1104M, 1104C, and 1104K by a remaining toner amount detection sensor, and includes a detection circuit 1206 for the solenoid 111.

[0082] Next, according to Figure 9 shown Figure 8 The operation of the locking mechanism for the openable cover 11 will be described with reference to a flowchart of the control circuit 201.

[0083] In step S01, when the remaining toner amount of the developing cartridges 1104Y, 1104M, 1104C, and 1104K is reduced to a predetermined amount or less by the remaining toner amount detection circuit 205, the control circuit 1201 receives its signal, and the program proceeds to step S02. That is, when the remaining toner amount detection circuit 1205 determines that the developing cartridge is in a state where the developing cartridge is to be replaced, the control circuit 1202 receives its signal, and the program proceeds to step S02.

[0084] In step S02, when the control circuit 1201 receives a signal indicating that determination is made that the developing cartridge is in a state where the developing cartridge is to be replaced, the control circuit 1201 transmits a signal for driving the solenoid 111 to the solenoid driving circuit 1206. As a result, the solenoid driving circuit 1206 drives the solenoid 111, and the lock lever 17 is pulled, so that the lock holding that holds the openable cover 11 in the closed state by the lock holding is formed to be released.

[0085] Thereafter, in step S03, the developing cartridge is replaced with a new (unused) cartridge, and the closing of the openable cover 11 is detected by the openable cover closing detection circuit 1203. Subsequently, in step S04, when the remaining toner amount detection circuit 1205 detects that the remaining toner amounts of the developing cartridges 1104Y, 1104M, 1104C, and 1104K are not less than a predetermined amount or less, in step S05, the driving of the solenoid 111 by the solenoid driving circuit 1206 is stopped. As a result, the lock lever 17 is pulled by the lock spring 18, so that the lock holding that holds the openable cover 11 in the closed state by the lock holding is formed to be unable to be released.

[0086] On the other hand, in step S01, if the remaining toner amount detection circuit 1205 determines that the remaining toner amount of the developing cartridges 1104Y, 1104M, 1104C, and 1104K is not less than a predetermined amount or less, and therefore the developing cartridges are not yet in a state where the process cartridges should be replaced, the program proceeds to step S06. In step S06, the solenoid 111 is not driven, and the lock holding that holds the openable cover 11 in the closed state is not released. Therefore, the user cannot open the openable cover 11, and therefore, the developer cartridges are not replaced, so that premature replacement of still usable developer cartridges can be prevented.

[0087] Next, according to Figure 10 shown Figure 8 The display operation of the operation panel 114 when the operation portion 12 is operated by the user to open the openable cover 11 is described with reference to a flowchart of the control circuit 1201 of FIG.

[0088] In step S011, when the operation portion 12 is operated by the user to open the openable cover 11 and the turning on of the operation detection switch 19 is detected by the operation detection circuit 1202, the program proceeds to step S12. In step S12, the remaining toner amount detection circuit 1205 detects whether the remaining toner amounts of the developing cartridges 1104Y, 1104M, 1104C, and 1104K are reduced to a predetermined amount or less.

[0089] When the remaining toner amount detection circuit 1205 determines that the remaining toner amounts of the developer cartridges 1104Y, 1104M, 1104C, and 1104K have decreased to a predetermined amount or less and that the developer cartridges are in a state where the developer cartridges are to be replaced, the process proceeds to step S13. In step S13, in response to the determination that the developer cartridges are in a state where the developer cartridges are to be replaced, the display drive circuit 1204 causes the operation panel 114 to produce a display corresponding to the state where the developer cartridges are in a state where the developer cartridges are to be replaced. Specifically, guidance is provided visually or by voice via the operation panel 114, indicating that the lock of the openable cover 11 is released and the developer cartridges can be replaced, as well as instructions for replacement and the replacement method.

[0090] On the other hand, in step S12, when the remaining colorant amount detection circuit 1205 determines that the remaining colorant amount of the developing boxes 1104Y, 1104M, 1104C and 1104K has not been reduced to a predetermined amount or less and therefore the developing boxes are not yet in a state to be replaced, the program enters step S14.

[0091] In step S14, in response to determining that the developing cartridge is not in a state where the developing cartridge is to be replaced, the display driving circuit 1204 causes the operation panel 114 to generate a display corresponding to the state where the developing cartridge is not in a state where the developing cartridge is to be replaced. Specifically, the operation panel 114 visually or by voice guides the user to indicate that the developing cartridge is still usable and therefore it is not time to replace the developing cartridge and that the lock of the openable cover 11 is not released.

[0092] Incidentally, the display produced by the operation panel may also be a display other than the above-described display, depending on whether maintenance of the closed state of the openable cover 11 is releasable.

[0093] Figure 11 Parts (a) and (b) show a configuration in which manual lock release is urgently performed in a case where an electrical component portion for driving the solenoid 111 fails and release of the lock mechanism that locks the openable cover 11 in the closed state cannot be performed. Figure 11 Part (a) is a perspective view of the appearance of the printer 1100, and Figure 11 Part (b) is a perspective view of the main parts of the printer 1100.

[0094] exist Figure 11In part (b), in the locked state of the locking mechanism for locking the openable cover 11, as described above, the rotation range of the connecting member 16 is restricted by the locking lever 17, so that the lock hold of the openable cover 11 cannot be released. Therefore, when the electrical component part malfunctions and the restriction of the rotation range of the connecting member 16 by the locking lever 17 cannot be released, the openable cover 11 cannot be opened. However, the operation of the latch 14 itself is not restricted, and therefore, the latch release portion 115 provided on the latch 14 is pressed in the direction of arrow L by the tool 131, so that the latch 14 slides (moves) and the lock hold of the openable cover 11 is released, so that the openable cover 11 can be opened.

[0095] At this time, if Figure 11 As shown in part (a), the tool 131 is inserted into the upper portion gap of the openable cover 11 in the printer 1100, and then the latch release portion 115 is pressed in the direction of arrow L by the tool 131, so that the lock hold of the openable cover 11 is released.

[0096] [Second embodiment]

[0097] Next, the second embodiment will be described. Incidentally, the basic configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment, and redundant parts will be omitted from the description. In addition, the constituent elements having the same functions as those in the first embodiment are represented by the same reference numerals or symbols and will be omitted from the description as appropriate.

[0098] Figure 12 11 is a perspective view showing a state in which the openable cover 11 for allowing replacement of the photosensitive drums 1101Y, 1101M, 1101C, and 1101K and the developing cartridges 1104Y, 1104M, 1104C, and 1104K of the printer 1100 according to the second embodiment is opened. Figure 13 Parts (a) and (b) are along Figure 12 A cross-sectional view taken along line AA. Figure 13 Part (a) shows a state before the openable cover 11 in the lock release state is opened, and Figure 13 Part (b) shows a state when the openable cover 11 in the lock release state in which the lock of the lock mechanism for locking the openable cover 11 in the closed state is released is opened.

[0099] exist Figure 12 and Figure 13 In part (b), the cover button 132, which serves as an operating portion for performing a lock release operation of the latch locking portions 11a and 11b of the openable cover 11, is used to place the openable cover 11 in an open state by being pushed in the direction of arrow M by the user.

[0100] exist Figure 13In parts (a) and (b) of FIG. 1 , the locking and lock releasing mechanism for the latch locking portions 11a and 11b of the openable cover 11 includes a first link 120 constituting a second moving portion and a second link 121 constituting a first moving portion. The locking and lock releasing mechanism further includes a link spring 122 provided between the first link 120 and the second link 121, a latch 14, a latch keeper 123, and a latch spring 15 provided between the latch 14 and the latch keeper 123.

[0101] The first link 120, the second link 121, and the latch 14 are slidably mounted on the latch holder 123. The latch 14 is positioned by the urging force of the latch spring 15 via the contact portion 14e of the latch 14 against the abutment portion 123a of the latch holder 123. By positioning the latch 14, the second link 121 and the first link 120 are positioned.

[0102] Figure 15 It is an exploded perspective view of main parts in which the first link 120, the second link 121, the latch 14, and the latch holder 123 are extracted.

[0103] exist Figure 15 , the latch 14 is slidably mounted on the latch holder 123 by engaging the holes 14g and 14h provided in the latch 14 with the bosses 123j and 123k provided on the latch holder 123. The second link 121 is slidably mounted on the latch holder 123 by engaging the holes 123b and 123c provided in the latch holder 123 with the bosses 121b and 121c provided on the second link 121. Further, the second link 121 has a configuration in which the abutment portion 121a of the second link 121 is pushed by the pushing portion 14f of the latch 14 by the pushing force of the latch spring 15, and thus, the latch portions 14b and 14c move to a position in which the latch portions 14b and 14c lock the latch locking portions 11a and 11b.

[0104] The first link 120 is slidably mounted on the latch holder 123 by engaging a not-shown groove portion provided on the first link 120 with a boss 123 d provided on the latch holder 123 .

[0105] Figure 16 It is an enlarged exploded perspective view of the first link 120 and the second link 121 with their main parts extracted.

[0106] like Figure 16As shown, the first link 120 is pushed in a direction in which the first link 120 and the second link 121 are separated from each other by a link spring 122 provided between the first link 120 and the second link 121, and the hook portion 120a of the first link 120 abuts against the abutting surface portion 121d of the hole of the second link 121.

[0107] The latch spring 15 and the link spring 122, positioned between the first latch 120 and the second link 121, create a force relationship of "(urging force of the link spring 122) > (urging force of the latch spring 15)." Consequently, when the lid button 132 is pressed, the first link 120, which is engaged with the lid button 132, moves, and the urging force of the link spring 122 moves the second link 121, causing the latch 14 to also move. Specifically, when the lid button 132 is pressed, the link spring 122 transmits the operation of the first link 120 to the second link 121. However, when the lid button 132 is not pressed, the link spring 122 brings the first link 120 into contact with the second link 121.

[0108] Next, the operation of the latch locking portions 11 a and 11 b of the openable cover 11 during release of the lock hold will be described.

[0109] exist Figure 12 and Figure 13 In part (b), when the user presses the cover button 132, as shown in FIG. Figure 13 As shown in part (b) of the drawing, the first link 120 engaged with the cover button 132 slides (moves) in the direction of arrow L. Subsequently, the second link 121 slides (moves) in the direction of arrow L due to the urging force of the link spring 122 provided between the first link 120 and the second link 121. As a result, the latch 14 engaged with the second link 121 slides (moves) in the direction of arrow L. As the second link 121 slides (moves) to a predetermined position, the latch portions 14b and 14c of the latch 14 release the lock of the latch locking portions 11a and 11b of the openable cover 11, thereby opening the openable cover 11.

[0110] Next, the operation of the latch locking portions 11 a and 11 b of the openable cover 11 during lock retention will be described.

[0111] Due to the urging force of the latch spring 15, which is provided between the latch 14 and the latch holder 123 to which the latch 14 is mounted, the latch 14, along with the first link 120 and the second link 121, moves in the direction opposite to the direction in which the lid button 132 was pressed. As a result, the latch portions 14b and 14c lock the latch locking portions 11a and 11b of the lid 11, maintaining the lock of the openable lid 11 in the closed state. Furthermore, due to the urging force of the latch spring 15, the contact portion 14e of the latch 14 abuts against the abutment portion 123a of the latch holder 123, thereby determining the position of the latch 14 and thus ensuring the locking amount of the latch portions 14b and 14c relative to the latch locking portions 11a and 11b.

[0112] Next, a locking mechanism for switching the lock state in which the openable cover 11 is locked in the closed state and the lock release state by keeping the lock of the latch locking portions 11a and 11b of the openable cover 11 via the latch portions 14b and 14c unreleased will be described with reference to FIG. Figure 13 and Figure 14 describe.

[0113] Figure 14 Parts (a) and (b) are along Figure 12 AA line cuts off, wherein part (a) shows the state before the openable cover 11 is opened in the locked state of the locking mechanism for locking the openable cover 11 in the closed state, and part (b) shows the state when the openable cover 11 in the locked state is opened.

[0114] The locking mechanism includes a solenoid 111 and a solenoid holding metal plate 112, which is mounted on a latch holder 123 and holds the solenoid 111. Furthermore, the locking mechanism includes a locking lever 17a that is rotatable about a shaft 112a provided on the solenoid holding metal plate 112 by operation of a plunger 111a of the solenoid 111, and a locking spring 18a that serves as an urging member for urging the locking lever 17a. The locking mechanism also includes a locking member 17b that is moved by the rotation of the locking lever 17a and is slidably mounted to constitute a locking portion and a restricting portion.

[0115] Based on the force relationship between the pushing force of the locking spring 18a and the attraction of the solenoid 111, the locking mechanism is switched between locking (locking) and locking release by rotating the locking rod 17a between the locking position and the lock release position and by moving the locking member 17b that contacts the locking rod 17a in conjunction with the locking rod 17a. Figure 13 Parts (a) and (b) show the state where the locking mechanism moves to the lock release position, and Figure 14Parts (a) and (b) show a state in which the locking mechanism is moved to the locking position.

[0116] When the locking mechanism is in the locked state, the force relationship is "(the pushing force of the locking spring 18a)>(the attractive force of the solenoid 111)", so that the plunger 111a, the locking rod 17a and the locking member 17b move in the directions of arrows S, T and U, respectively. Figure 14 of part (a) in the locked position.

[0117] like Figure 14 As shown in part (b) of the figure, when the user presses the cover button 132 while the lock mechanism is in the locked state, the first link 120 engaged with the cover button 132 moves on the latch holder 123 against the urging force of the link spring 122. On the other hand, the locking member 17b restricts the movement of the second link 121 between the second link 121 and the latch holder 123, and thus, the second link 121 cannot move. For this reason, the latch 14, which is movably engaged with the second link 121, cannot move, so that even when the cover button 132 is pressed, the locking of the latch locking parts 11a and 11b of the openable cover 11 cannot be released, and thus the openable cover 11 does not open.

[0118] On the other hand, in the lock release state, the force relationship is ("urging force of the lock spring 18) < (attractive force of the solenoid 111)", so that the plunger 111a, the lock rod 17a and the lock member 17b move to the lock release position in the directions of arrow J, arrow N and arrow P respectively. Figure 13 As shown in part (b) of FIG, when the user presses the cover button 132 while the lock mechanism is in the lock release state, the lock member 17b moves to a position retracted from the restricting position where the lock member restricts the movement of the second link 121, and thus, the movement of the second link 21 is not restricted. As a result, the latch portions 14b and 14c of the latch 14 move to a position where the lock is released by the latch locking portions 11a and 11b of the openable cover 11, making it possible to release the lock of the openable cover 11 and thus open the openable cover 11.

[0119] Next, we will refer to Figure 13 and Figure 14 The operation portion detection mechanism for detecting the user's operation of the cover button 132 is described.

[0120] The operation portion detection mechanism is composed of the cover button 132, the first link 120, the switch lever 110c rotatably held around the rotation axis 141a, and the operation detection switch 19 mounted on the latch holder 123. The operation detection switch 19 is a sensor for detecting that the cover button 132 is operated, and when the operation detection switch 19 is pressed to the on position, the operation detection switch 19 detects that the user has operated the cover button 132.

[0121] like Figure 13 As shown in part (b) of the figure, when the user presses the cover button 132 in the direction of arrow M during the lock release state of the lock mechanism, the first link 120 moves in the direction of arrow L, so that the first link 120 and the switch lever 110c engage with each other. As a result, the switch lever 110c rotates in the direction of arrow Q and pushes the operation detection switch 19, so that the user's operation of the cover button 32 is detected.

[0122] like Figure 14 As shown in part (b) of the figure, when the user presses the cover button 132 in the direction of arrow M during the locked state of the lock mechanism, the first link 120 can also move. Therefore, the switch lever 110c engaged with the first link 120 rotates in the direction of arrow Q and pushes the operation detection switch 19, so that the user's operation of the cover switch 132 is detected.

[0123] That is, Figure 13 Part (b) and Figure 14 As shown in part (b) of FIG. 1 , regardless of the locked state and the lock released state of the lock mechanism, the operation detection switch 19 can detect that the cover button 132 has been operated.

[0124] Incidentally, in the above-described embodiment, the operation detection switch 19 is pushed by moving the first link 120 through the cover button 132 and then rotating the switch lever 110 c through the first link 120. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the operation detection switch 19 may only need to be pressed in conjunction with the cover button 132, and therefore, the cover button 132 may also directly press the operation detection switch 19.

[0125] [Third embodiment]

[0126] Next, the third embodiment will be described. Incidentally, in the following description, the configuration will be described by citing the same configuration as in the first and second embodiments, and redundant parts will be omitted from the description. In addition, constituent elements having the same functions as in the first and second embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals or symbols and will be omitted from the description as appropriate.

[0127] Figure 17 Parts (a) and (b) are along Figure 12 AA line is a cross-sectional view of a main portion according to the second embodiment. Figure 17 Part (a) shows a state before the openable cover 11 in the lock release state is opened, and Figure 17Part (b) shows a state when the openable cover 11 in the lock release state in which the lock mechanism for locking the openable cover 11 in the closed state is released is opened.

[0128] exist Figure 17 In parts (a) and (b), the locking and lock release mechanism for the latch locking parts 11a and 11b of the openable cover 11 includes a first link 120, a second link 121, a latch 14, a latch retainer 123, a latch spring 15 arranged between the latch 14 and the latch retainer 123, and a link spring 122a arranged between the first link 120 and the latch retainer 123.

[0129] The first link 120, the second link 121, and the latch 14 are slidably mounted on the latch holder 123. The latch 14 is positioned by the urging force of the latch spring 15 via the contact portion 14e of the latch 14 against the abutment portion 123a of the latch holder 23. The second link 121 and the first link 120 are configured to be positioned by positioning the latch 14.

[0130] Figure 19 It is an exploded perspective view of main parts in which the first link 120 , the second link 121 , the link spring 122 a , the latch 14 , and the latch holder 123 are extracted.

[0131] exist Figure 19 14. In the embodiment of the present invention, the latch 14 is slidably mounted on the latch holder 123 by engaging the holes 14g and 14h provided in the latch 14 with the bosses 123j and 123k provided on the latch holder 123. The second link 121 is provided with bosses 121b and 121c that are engageable with the inverted L-shaped holes 123e and 123f provided at a pair of raised portions of the latch holder 123, and is slidably mounted on the latch holder 123. Furthermore, the second link 121 has a configuration in which the abutment portion 121a of the second link 121 is pushed by the pushing portion 14f of the latch 14 by the pushing force of the latch spring 15, and thus the latch portions 14b and 14c move to a position in which the latch portions 14b and 14c lock the latch locking portions 11a and 11b.

[0132] The first link 120 is slidably mounted on the latch holder 123 by engagement of a not-shown groove portion provided on the first link 120 with bosses 123 g and 123 h provided on the latch holder 123 .

[0133] The first link 120 is connected to the latch holder 123 by a link spring 122a provided between the first link 120 and the latch holder 123. Figure 19The latch keeper 123 is pushed in the right direction, and the boss 123g of the latch keeper 123 contacts the groove portion of the first link 120, so that the first link 120 is positioned. In addition, when the cover button 132 is pressed, the first link 120 resists the urging force of the link spring 122a and Figure 19 moves in the left direction, and includes a pushing portion 120b for pushing the abutting portion 121e of the second link 121.

[0134] Next, the operation of the latch locking portions 11 a and 11 b of the openable cover 11 during release of the lock hold will be described.

[0135] exist Figure 12 and Figure 17 In part (b), when the user presses the cover button 132, as shown in FIG. Figure 17 As shown in part (b) of the drawing, the first link 120 engaged with the cover button 132 and the second link 121 pushed by the first link 120 slide (move) in the direction of arrow L. Therefore, the latch 14 engaged with the second link 121 slides (moves) in the direction of arrow L. As the second link 121 slides (moves) to a predetermined position, the latch portions 14b and 14c of the latch 14 release the lock of the latch locking portions 11a and 11b of the openable cover 11, so that the openable cover 11 is opened.

[0136] Next, the operation of the latch locking portions 11 a and 11 b of the openable cover 11 during lock retention will be described.

[0137] Due to the urging force of the latch spring 15, which is provided between the latch 14 and the latch holder 123 to which the latch 14 is mounted, the latch 14, along with the first link 120 and the second link 121, moves in the direction opposite to the direction in which the lid button 132 was pressed. As a result, the latch portions 14b and 14c lock the latch locking portions 11a and 11b of the lid 11, maintaining the lock of the openable lid 11 in the closed state. Furthermore, due to the urging force of the latch spring 15, the contact portion 14a of the latch 14 abuts against the abutment portion 123a of the latch holder 123, thereby determining the position of the latch 14 and thus ensuring the locking amount of the latch portions 14b and 14c relative to the latch locking portions 11a and 11b.

[0138] Next, a locking mechanism for switching between a locked state in which the openable cover 11 is locked in a closed state and a lock released state by making the locking of the latch locking portions 11a and 11b of the openable cover 11 impossible to release via the latch portions 14b and 14c will be described with reference to FIG. Figure 17 and Figure 18 describe.

[0139] Figure 18 Parts (a) and (b) are along Figure 12 AA line cuts off, wherein part (a) shows the state before the openable cover 11 is opened in the locked state of the locking mechanism for locking the openable cover 11 in the closed state, and part (b) shows the state when the openable cover 11 in the locked state is opened.

[0140] The locking mechanism includes a solenoid 111 and a solenoid holding metal plate 112, which is mounted on a latch holder 123 and holds the solenoid 111. Furthermore, the locking mechanism includes a locking lever 17a that is rotatable about a shaft 112a provided on the solenoid holding metal plate 112 by operation of a plunger 111a of the solenoid 111, and a locking spring 18a for urging the locking lever 17a. The locking mechanism also includes a link moving member 17c that is moved by the rotation of the locking lever 17a and is slidably mounted to constitute a locking portion and a restricting portion.

[0141] Based on the force relationship between the pushing force of the locking spring 18a and the attraction of the solenoid 111, the locking mechanism is switched between locking (locking) and locking release by rotating the locking rod 17a between the locking position and the lock release position and by moving the connecting rod moving member 17c that contacts the locking rod 17a in conjunction with the locking rod 17a. Figure 17 Parts (a) and (b) show the state where the locking mechanism moves to the lock release position, and Figure 18 Parts (a) and (b) show a state in which the locking mechanism is moved to the locking position.

[0142] When the locking mechanism is in the locked state, the force relationship is "(the urging force of the lock spring 18a)>(the attractive force of the solenoid 111)". Therefore, the plunger 111a, the lock lever 17a, the link moving member 17c and the second link 121 move in the directions of arrow S, arrow T, arrow U and arrow U respectively. Figure 18 The locked position is shown in part (a).

[0143] like Figure 18As shown in part (b) of FIG, when the user presses the cover button 132 when the locking mechanism is in the locked state, the first link 120 engaged with the cover button 132 moves on the latch holder 123 against the urging force of the link spring 122a. When the locking mechanism is in the locked state, the link moving member 17c moves the second link 121 in the direction of arrow U, and therefore, the pushing portion 120b of the first link 120 cannot push the abutting portion 121d of the second link 121, so that the first link 120 and the second link 121 cannot move in conjunction with each other. Therefore, even when the cover button 132 is pressed, the locking of the latch locking portions 11a and 11b of the openable cover 11 cannot be released, and thus the openable cover 11 is not opened.

[0144] On the other hand, in the lock release state, the force relationship is "(urging force of the lock spring 18) < (attractive force of the solenoid 111)". Therefore, the plunger 111a, the lock lever 17a, the link moving member 17c, and the second link 121 move to the lock release position in the directions of arrow J, arrow N, arrow P, and arrow P, respectively.

[0145] like Figure 17 As shown in part (b) of the drawing, when the locking mechanism is in the lock release state, the user presses the cover button 132. Subsequently, the link moving member 17c moves to the retracted position where the link moving member 17c does not move the second link 121, and thus, the pushing portion 120b of the first link 120 pushes the abutting portion 121d of the second link 121, causing the first link 120 and the second link 121 to move in conjunction with each other. As a result, the latch portions 14b and 14c of the latch 14, which are movably engaged with the second link 121, move to the lock-released position of the latch locking portions 11a and 11b of the openable cover 11, making it possible to release the lock of the openable cover 11 and thus open the openable cover 11.

[0146] Next, we will refer to Figure 17 and Figure 18 The operation portion detection mechanism for detecting the user's operation of the cover button 132 is described.

[0147] The operation portion detection mechanism is composed of the cover button 132, the first link 120, the switch lever 110c rotatably held around the rotation axis 141a, and the operation detection switch 19 mounted on the latch holder 123. The operation detection switch 19 is a sensor for detecting that the cover button 132 is operated, and when the operation detection switch 19 is pressed to the on position, the operation detection switch 19 detects that the user has operated the cover button 132.

[0148] like Figure 17As shown in part (b) of the figure, when the user presses the cover button 132 in the direction of arrow M during the lock release state of the lock mechanism, the first link 120 moves in the direction of arrow L, so that the first link 120 and the switch lever 110c engage with each other. As a result, the switch lever 110c rotates in the direction of arrow Q and pushes the operation detection switch 19, so that the user's operation of the cover button 32 is detected.

[0149] like Figure 18 As shown in part (b) of the figure, when the user presses the cover button 132 in the direction of arrow M during the locked state of the lock mechanism and engages with the first link 120, the first link 120 also moves. As a result, the switch lever 110c rotates in the direction of arrow Q and pushes the operation detection switch 19, so that the user's operation of the cover switch 132 is detected.

[0150] [Fourth embodiment]

[0151] Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. Similar to the first embodiment, this embodiment employs a configuration in which the lock of the openable cover can be manually released in an emergency and opened. However, while the first embodiment employed a configuration in which the lock of the openable cover was released using a tool, the present invention is not limited thereto. Therefore, in this embodiment, a configuration in which the lock of the openable cover can be manually released and opened is employed. First, the overall structure of the imaging apparatus according to this embodiment and its operation during imaging will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0152] Image forming apparatus A is an intermediate transfer tandem type image forming apparatus in which toner images of four colors, yellow Y, magenta M, cyan C, and black K, are transferred onto an intermediate transfer belt and then transferred onto a sheet, thereby forming an image on the sheet. Incidentally, in the following description, although Y, M, C, and K are added as suffixes to components using toners of the corresponding colors, the configuration and operation of the corresponding components are substantially the same except that the colors of the toners to be used are different from each other, and therefore, the suffixes will be omitted as appropriate (except in cases where distinction (determination) is necessary).

[0153] Figure 20 is a schematic sectional view of the image forming apparatus A. The image forming apparatus A includes an image forming portion for forming a toner image on a sheet S, a sheet feeding portion for feeding the sheet toward the image forming portion, and a fixing portion for fixing the toner image on the sheet.

[0154] like Figure 20As shown, the image forming section includes process cartridges 257 (257Y, 257M, 257C, 257K), an intermediate transfer unit 259, and a laser scanner unit 2103. The intermediate transfer unit 259 includes primary transfer rollers 254 (254Y, 254M, 254C, 254K), an intermediate transfer belt 2102, a driving roller 255, a secondary transfer roller 2015, a secondary transfer counter roller 256, and the like.

[0155] In each process cartridge 257, yellow, magenta, cyan, and black toners are respectively contained, and a toner sensor 235 for detecting the amount of the contained toner is provided. The process cartridges 257 each include a photosensitive drum 251 (251Y, 251M, 251C, 251K), a charging roller 252 (252Y, 252M, 252C, 252K), and a developing roller 253 (253Y, 253M, 253C, 253K).

[0156] Next, the imaging operation will be described. First, when Figure 30 When the controller 230 shown receives an imaging job signal, the sheets S stacked and accommodated in the sheet cassette 2107 are fed to the registration roller 2110 via the feed roller 2108 and the conveying roller 2109. The registration roller 2110 corrects the oblique movement of the sheet S and conveys the sheet S to the secondary transfer portion formed by the secondary transfer roller 2105 and the secondary transfer opposing roller 256.

[0157] On the other hand, in the image forming section, first, a bias (voltage) is applied to the charging roller 252, thereby uniformly charging the surface of the photosensitive drum 251 in contact with the charging roller 252. Thereafter, based on image data transmitted from an external device or the like, the surface of the photosensitive drum 251 is irradiated with laser light by the laser scanner unit 2103. Thus, an electrostatic latent image based on the image data is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 251.

[0158] Thereafter, a bias voltage is applied to the developing roller 253, whereby toner of the relevant color is deposited on the electrostatic latent image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 251. Thus, a toner image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 251. As the photosensitive drum 251 rotates, the toner image thus formed is sent to a primary transfer portion formed by the photosensitive drum 251 and the primary transfer roller 254.

[0159] By applying a bias voltage of a polarity opposite to the charge polarity of the toner to each of the primary transfer rollers 254, the toner image of the corresponding color fed to the primary transfer portion is transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 2102. Thus, the toner images of the corresponding colors are successively superimposed on the intermediate transfer belt 2102, so that a full-color toner image is formed.

[0160] Next, the toner image is sent to the secondary transfer portion by the rotation of the intermediate transfer belt 2102. Subsequently, at the secondary transfer portion, a bias is applied to the secondary transfer roller 2105, whereby the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 2102 is transferred onto the sheet S.

[0161] Thereafter, the sheet S on which the toner image is transferred is sent to the fixing device 2111. The toner image is subjected to heat and pressure processing by the fixing device 2111, so that the toner image is fixed on the sheet S. Thereafter, the sheet S is discharged by the discharge roller 2112 onto the discharge portion 2113.

[0162] <Openable Door>

[0163] Next, the configuration of the openable door 21 will be described.

[0164] Figure 21 and Figure 22 : is a perspective view of the imaging device A. Here, Figure 21 Part (a) shows a state in which the openable door 21 and the cover member 2222 are in the closed position. Figure 21 Part (b) shows a state in which the openable door 21 is in the closed position and the cover member 2222 is in the open position. Figure 22 Part (a) shows a state in which the cover member 2222 is in the closed position and the openable door 21 is in the open position. Figure 22 Part (b) shows the cartridge tray 258 being removed from Figure 22 The state of part (a) is the pulled-out state.

[0165] like Figure 21 and Figure 22 As shown, the image forming apparatus A includes an operation panel 214 (display portion) capable of displaying various information. In addition, the operation panel 214 is configured to be operable by a user, and the user can perform various settings for image formation, such as the number of sheets subjected to image formation and the setting of the sheet S, by operating the operation panel.

[0166] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus A is provided with an openable door 21 that can be opened and closed relative to the apparatus main assembly 2100. The openable door 21 is rotatably supported by the apparatus main assembly 2100 and is movable by rotation between an open position in which the openable door 21 is open relative to the apparatus main assembly 2100 and a closed position in which the openable door 21 is closed relative to the apparatus main assembly 2100. That is, the openable door 21 is configured to be movable between a closed position in which the openable door 21 covers the opening of the apparatus main assembly 2100 and an open position in which the opening of the apparatus main assembly 2100 is exposed. Furthermore, the openable door 21 is provided with two engaging claws 21 a (to-be-engaged portions).

[0167] When the openable door 21 is in the open position, the cartridge tray 258 holding the process cartridge 257 is exposed through the opening. A user or maintenance personnel can install and remove the cartridge 257 relative to the apparatus main assembly 2100 by linearly pulling out the cartridge tray 258 through the opening of the apparatus main assembly 2100. Furthermore, the cartridge tray 258 is housed in the apparatus main assembly 2100 so that the process cartridge 257 mounted in the cartridge tray 258 is mounted in the apparatus main assembly 2100. Thus, the process cartridge 257 is configured to be mountable in and removable from the apparatus main assembly 2100 of the image forming apparatus A.

[0168] The imaging device A is provided with a cover member 2222 that can be opened relative to the openable door 21. The cover member 2222 is rotatably supported by the openable door 21 and moves between an open position in which the cover member 2222 is open relative to the openable door 21 and a closed position in which the cover member 2222 is closed relative to the openable door 21 by rotating. When the cover member 2222 is opened, the insertion opening 21c, which is a hole for allowing the insertion of a tool not shown, is exposed. That is, the cover member 2222 is configured to be movable between a closed position in which the cover member 2222 covers the insertion opening 21c and an open position in which the insertion opening 21c is exposed. The specific use of the insertion opening 21c will be described later. Incidentally, for example, the cover member 2222 can also be changed into a sheet feeding tray for stacking sheets S to be manually fed, etc.

[0169] The image forming apparatus A includes a latch member 24 (engaging member) for locking the openable door 21 in the closed position to the apparatus main assembly 2100. The latch member 24 includes two latches 24a. Figure 23 Parts (a) and (b) are enlarged perspective views of the latch member 24 and its surroundings. Figure 23 As shown, the latch member 24 is pushed in the direction of arrow K1 by the latch spring 25, whereby the latch member 24 and the button 22 come into contact with each other. Incidentally, the button 22 (pushing member) is provided so as to be exposed from the housing cover 2201 of the apparatus main assembly 2100 and is configured to be pushed from the outside of the apparatus main assembly 2100.

[0170] like Figure 23As shown in part (a) of the drawing, as the openable door 21 gradually closes, the inclined portion 24b of the latch 24a of the latch member 24 and the inclined surface 11b of the engaging claw 11a of the openable door 21 come into contact with each other. As the openable door 21 further closes, the inclined portion 21b of the engaging claw 21a moves along the inclined surface 24b of the latch 24 while pushing the latch member 24 in the direction of arrow K2. Thereafter, when the openable door 21 is completely closed, the inclined portion 21b of the engaging claw 11a and the inclined surface 24b of the latch 24a come out of contact with each other, causing the latch member 24 to move in the direction of arrow K1 by the urging force of the latch spring 25. As a result, the latch 24a and the engaging claw 21a engage with each other, causing the openable door 21 to be locked to the apparatus main assembly 2100.

[0171] In addition, if Figure 23 As shown in part (b) of the figure, when the button 22 is pressed in the direction of arrow K2 by a user or maintenance personnel, the latch member 24 in contact with the button 22 slides (moves) in the direction of arrow K2 together with the button 22 against the urging force of the latch spring 25 in the direction of arrow K1. As a result, the engagement between the latch 4a and the engagement claw 21a is released (eliminated), so that the lock of the openable door 21 to the main assembly 2100 of the apparatus is released. Therefore, in the lock-released state, the user or maintenance personnel can manually open the openable door 21.

[0172] <Restriction Unit>

[0173] Next, the configuration of the restriction unit 2200 (restriction portion) for restricting the movement of the button 22 will be described.

[0174] Figure 24 Part (a) is a perspective view of the restriction unit 2200. Figure 24 Part (b) is an exploded perspective view of the restriction unit 2200. Figure 25 Part (a) is a front view of the restriction unit 2200. Figure 25 Part (b) is a top view (plan view) of the restriction unit 2200.

[0175] like Figure 24 and Figure 25 As shown, the restriction unit 2300 includes a holder 2210 , a slidable member 2211 , a stopper member 27 , a solenoid 211 , a detection arm 2212 , and a button sensor 29 .

[0176] The slidable member 2211 is supported to be movable in the arrow K1 and K2 directions relative to the holder 2210 and is urged in the arrow K1 direction by the slide spring 14. Therefore, the button contact portion 2211a of the slidable member 2211 abuts against the button 22.

[0177] The stopper member 27 (restriction member) is supported so as to be swingable in the directions of arrows R1 and R2 about its stopper shaft 27a by engagement of the stopper shaft 27a with the support hole 2210a of the holder 2210, and is urged in the direction of arrow R1 by the urging force of the stopper spring 28. Here, the stopper member 27 is swung in the direction of arrow R1 and is in a position ( Figure 24 The position shown in FIG. 2 is referred to as the restricted position. As will be described later, the stopper member 27 restricts the movement of the button 22 at the restricted position. When the stopper member 27 is in the restricted position and the button 22 is not pressed, a distance P exists between the stopper contact portion 2211b of the slidable member 2211 and the stopper member 27.

[0178] The solenoid 211 is fixed to the holder 2210 by a screw 2217. In addition, the connecting shaft 211b is installed in the plunger 211a of the solenoid 211, and the connecting shaft 211b is engaged with the groove 27b of the stop member 27, so that the solenoid 211 and the stop member 27 are connected to each other. When current is supplied to the solenoid 211, a magnetic force is generated, causing the plunger 211a to move in the direction of arrow K3. Therefore, the stop member 27 connected to the plunger 211a is swung from the restricted position in the direction of arrow R2 against the urging force of the stop spring 28 in the direction of arrow R1. Therefore, the stop member 27 is swung from the restricted position to the position ( Figure 28 shown) is called the released position.

[0179] Here, the attractive force of the permanent magnet (not shown) of the solenoid 211 is set to be stronger than the urging force of the stop spring 28. Therefore, even after the supply of current to the solenoid 211 is stopped, the stop member 27 maintains the state in which the stop member 27 is in the released position. In addition, when a current flowing in a direction opposite to the direction during the movement of the plunger 211a in the direction of arrow K3 is supplied to the solenoid 211, the plunger 211a swings in the direction of arrow K4 by the magnetic force and the urging force of the stop spring 28. Therefore, the stop member 27 moves from the release position to the restricted position. That is, the stop member 27 as a part of the restriction unit 2200 is configured to be able to move between the restricted position and the released position by supplying current to the solenoid 211 (driving source). Incidentally, the stop member 27 being in either the restricted position or the released position can be detected by the stopper sensor 234 ( Figure 30 ) detection.

[0180] The button sensor 29 is supported by the holder 2210 by engaging the sensor shaft 2210c of the holder 2210 with the support hole 29b of the button sensor. The button sensor 29 is provided with a flag 29a that can swing in the directions of arrows R3 and R4. As described later, when the button 22 is pressed, the flag 29a swings in the direction of arrow R3, thereby detecting that the button 22 has been pressed.

[0181] The detection arm 2212 is swingably supported in the directions of arrows R5 and R6 relative to the arm shaft 2201b of the holder 2210 and is urged in the direction of arrow R5 by the arm spring 2215. Consequently, the detection arm 2212 contacts the arm support portion 2211c of the slidable member 2211. Incidentally, the urging force of the slide spring 2214 is set to be greater than the urging force of the arm spring 2215. Therefore, the slidable member 2211 does not move in the direction of arrow K2 due to the urging force of the arm spring 2215, but rather moves in the direction of arrow K1 due to the urging force of the slide spring 2214, and thereby abuts against the button 22.

[0182] <Restriction Operation of Restriction Unit>

[0183] Next, the restriction operation of the movement of the button 22 by the restriction unit 2200 will be described.

[0184] Figure 26 Parts (a) and (b) are schematic diagrams of the restriction unit 2200 when the stop member 27 is in the restriction position and the button 22 is pressed, wherein part (a) is a front view and part (b) is a top view. Figure 27 2 is a perspective view of the restriction unit 2200 and the locking member 24 when the stopper member 27 is in the restriction position and the button 22 is pushed.

[0185] like Figure 26 As shown in part (a), when the button 22 is pressed in the direction of arrow K2, the pushing force is transmitted to the button contact portion 2211a in contact with the button 22, so that the slidable member 2211 moves together with the button 22 in the direction of arrow K2. In addition, the latch 24 also contacts the button 22 ( Figure 27 ), and therefore, when the button 22 moves in the arrow K2 direction, the latch member 24 also moves in the arrow K2 direction together with the button 22.

[0186] Here, when the stopper member 27 is in the restricted position, the slidable member 2211 moves in the direction of the arrow K2 by a distance P ( Figure 24), the stopper contact portion 2211b of the slidable member 2211 contacts the stopper member 27. Therefore, the movement of the slidable member 2211 in the direction of arrow K2 is restricted, and the movement of the button 22 and the locking member 24 in the direction of arrow K2 is also restricted. That is, when the button 22 is pressed, the stopper member 27 enters the area through which the slidable member 2211 passes and restricts the movement of the slidable member 2211.

[0187] like Figure 27 As shown, when the stopper member 27 positioned at the restricting position and the stopper contact portion 2211b of the slidable member 2211 come into contact with each other, the latch 24a of the latch member 24 and the engaging claw 21a of the apparatus main assembly 2100 are brought into engagement with each other. Specifically, when the stopper member 27 is positioned at the restricting position, the restricting unit 2200 restricts movement of the button 22 in the direction of arrow K2 by contacting the slidable member 2211 of the contacting stopper member 27 with the button 22, causing the stopper member to restrict release of the engagement between the latch 4a and the engaging claw 21a. Therefore, when the stopper member 27 is in the restricting position, the lock of the openable door 21 cannot be released even when the button 22 is pressed, preventing the openable door 21 from opening.

[0188] In addition, if Figure 26 As shown in part (b) of the figure, when the button 22 is pressed and the arm supporting portion 2211c of the slidable member 2211 moves in the direction of arrow K2, the arm supporting portion 2211c separates from the detection arm 2212, causing the detection arm 2212 to swing in the direction of arrow R5 by the urging force of the arm spring 2215. Therefore, the detection arm 2212 presses the flag 29a of the button sensor 29, causing the flag 29a to swing in the direction of arrow R3, and thus the button sensor 29 detects that the button 22 has been pressed.

[0189] Figure 28 Parts (a) and (b) are schematic diagrams of the restriction unit 2200 when the stop member 27 is in the release position and the button 22 is pressed, wherein part (a) is a front view and part (b) is a top view. Figure 29 2 is a perspective view of the restriction unit 2200 and the latch member 24 when the stop member 27 is in the release position and the button 22 is pressed.

[0190] like Figure 28 As shown in part (a) of FIG. 2 , when the button 22 is pressed in the direction of arrow K2, the pushing force is transmitted to the button contact portion 2211a of the slidable member 2211 that contacts the button 22, so that the slidable member 2211 moves together with the button 22 in the direction of arrow K2. The latch member 24 also contacts the button 22 ( Figure 29), and therefore, when the button 22 moves in the arrow K2 direction, the latch member 24 also moves in the arrow K2 direction together with the button 22.

[0191] Here, when the stopper member 27 is in the release position, unlike when the stopper member 27 is in the restriction position, the slidable member 2211 is not restricted from movement due to contact with the stopper member 27. Therefore, the slidable member 2211 moves in the direction of arrow K2 until the detection arm 2212, which swings in the direction of arrow K6 as the slidable member 2211 moves, contacts the arm contact portion 2210d. That is, when the stopper member 27 is in the release position, the distance that the slidable member 2211 moves in the direction of arrow K2 is longer than when the stopper member 27 is in the restriction position.

[0192] like Figure 29 As shown, when the detection arm 2212 contacts the arm contact portion 2210d of the retainer 2210 and the movement of the slidable member 2211 in the direction of arrow K2 is restricted, the engagement between the latch 24a of the latch member 24 and the engaging claw 21a of the apparatus main assembly 2100 is released. That is, when the stop member 27 is in the released position, the restriction unit 2200 allows the button 22 to move in the direction of arrow K2 until the engagement between the latch 24a and the engaging claw 21a is released. Therefore, when the stop member 27 is in the released position, the lock on the openable door 21 is released when the button 22 is pressed, allowing the openable door 21 to be opened. In other words, the restriction unit 2200 is configured to be capable of being placed in a state in which the restriction unit 2200 contacts the button 22 and restricts its movement, as well as a state in which the restriction unit 2200 is prevented from contacting the button 22 and allows the latch member 24 to move through the button 22.

[0193] In addition, if Figure 28 As shown in part (b) of the drawing, when the button 22 is pressed and the arm contact portion 2211c of the slidable member 2211 moves in the direction of arrow K2, the arm support portion 2211c separates from the detection arm 2212, causing the detection arm 2212 to swing in the direction of arrow R5 by the urging force of the arm spring 2215. Therefore, the detection arm 2212 pushes the flag 29a of the button sensor 29, and the flag 29a swings in the direction of arrow R3, so that the button sensor 29 detects that the button 22 has been pressed.

[0194] <controller>

[0195] Next, the system configuration of the portion specifically related to the openable door 21 and the restriction unit 2200 among the system configuration of the imaging apparatus A will be described.

[0196] Figure 30 is a block diagram showing a part of the system configuration of the imaging device A. Figure 30 As shown, the imaging device A includes a controller 230 including a CPU 231, a ROM 232, and a RAM 233. The ROM 232 stores various data such as control programs and tables. The CPU 231 performs various calculation processes based on the control programs or information stored in the ROM 232. The RAM 233 temporarily stores data.

[0197] That is, in the controller 230, the CPU 231 controls various devices of the image forming apparatus A based on the control program stored in the ROM 232 while using the RAM 233 as an operation space (area). In addition, the controller 230 (CPU 231) performs the above-mentioned image forming operation, such as forming a toner image on the photosensitive drum 251 through the control of the various devices.

[0198] The operation panel 214 is connected to the controller 230. As described above, the user operates the operation panel 214 so that the user can perform various settings related to imaging and imaging work. In addition, the controller 230 receives signals from the operation panel 214 and causes various devices of the imaging apparatus A to operate.

[0199] Furthermore, a power source 236 for supplying current to the solenoid 211 is connected to the controller 230. The controller 230 controls the solenoid 211 by controlling the power source 236 so that the stopper member 27 moves between the restricting position and the releasing position.

[0200] Furthermore, a toner sensor 235 (toner detecting means), a button sensor 29 (detecting means), and a stopper sensor 234 are connected to the controller 230. The controller 230 executes a cartridge replacement sequence described later by using detection results of these sensors.

[0201] <Cartridge Replacement Sequence>

[0202] Next, we will use Figure 31 The flowchart shown is used to describe a cartridge replacement sequence, which is a sequence when replacing the process cartridge 257. Incidentally, this sequence is executed every time an image is formed by the image forming apparatus A.

[0203] When the cartridge replacement sequence starts, the stopper sensor 234 first detects whether the stopper member 27 is in the restricted position or the released position (S31). Next, regardless of whether the stopper member 27 is in any position (restricted position, released position), the toner sensor 235 detects the amount of toner in the process cartridge 257 (S32, S33, S36).

[0204] Next, when the stopper member 27 is in the restricted position and the amount of toner in the developing cartridge 257 is less than a predetermined amount, the controller 230 causes the power supply 236 to supply current to the solenoid 211, so that the stopper member 27 moves from the restricted position to the retracted (released) position (S34, S35). Incidentally, when the amount of toner in the developing cartridge 257 is a predetermined amount or more, the controller 230 causes the power supply 236 not to supply current to the solenoid 211, so that the stopper member 27 remains in the restricted position (S34).

[0205] Furthermore, when the stopper member 27 is in the retracted (released) position and the amount of toner in the process cartridge 257 is a predetermined amount or more, the controller 230 causes the power supply 236 to supply current to the solenoid 211, causing the stopper member 27 to move from the retracted (released) position to the restricted position (S37, S38). Incidentally, when the amount of toner in the process cartridge 257 is less than the predetermined amount, the controller 230 causes the power supply 236 to not supply current to the solenoid 211, causing the stopper member 27 to remain in the released (retracted) position (S37). Specifically, when the amount of toner in the process cartridge 257 is a predetermined amount or more, the controller 230 positions the stopper member 27 in the restricted position, and when the amount of toner in the process cartridge 246 is less than the predetermined amount, the controller 230 positions the stopper member 27 in the retracted (released) position.

[0206] Next, when the pressing of the button 22 is detected by the button sensor 29, the toner sensor 235 detects the amount of toner in the process cartridge 257 (S39, S40). Thereafter, in a case where the amount of toner in all the process cartridges 257 is a predetermined amount or more, the controller 230 causes the operation panel 214 to display a message to the effect that the time for replacing the process cartridge 257 has not yet arrived, and ends the cartridge replacement sequence (S41, S43). Furthermore, in a case where the amount of toner in at least one of the process cartridges is less than a predetermined amount, the controller 230 causes the operation panel 214 to display one or more process cartridges 257 that need to be replaced, and ends the cartridge replacement sequence (S41, S42). Incidentally, in addition to the display at the operation panel 214, the one or more process cartridges 257 that need to be replaced may also be notified by voice. (Proofreading Speech)

[0207] <How to manually release the lock of the openable door>

[0208] In the imaging apparatus A, when current cannot be supplied to the solenoid 211 due to a failure of the electrical system, etc., the lock of the openable door 21 cannot be electrically released. Therefore, a method of manually releasing the lock of the openable door 21 will be described.

[0209] like Figure 21 As shown in part (a) of FIG, when the lock of the openable door 21 is manually released, the person releasing the lock (releaser) moves the cover member 2222 from the closed position to the open position, exposing the insertion opening 21c. Here, the insertion opening is a hole for allowing access to one of the latches 24a of the latch member 24. The releaser accesses the latch 24a by inserting a tool, not shown, into the insertion opening 21c, and then operates the tool, not shown, so that the latch 24a is pushed in the direction of arrow K2.

[0210] The latch member 24 is constructed as a separate member from the button 22 and the stop member 27 and is therefore independently movable. Therefore, through this operation, the entire latch member 24 moves in the direction of arrow K2, releasing the engagement between the latch 24a and the engagement claw 21a. In other words, the latch member 24 can be moved from outside the main assembly 2100 of the device, and the engagement between the latch 24a and the engagement claw 21a of the latch member 24 can be released even when the movement of the button 22 is restricted by the restriction unit 2200. Therefore, even if current cannot be supplied to the solenoid 211 due to a malfunction in the electrical system, the releaser can manually release the lock of the openable door 21.

[0211] According to the above embodiment, when the mounted cartridge is still usable by the remaining toner amount detection, the opening of the openable cover covering the cartridge mounting portion is locked. Therefore, the cartridge cannot be replaced, so that the still usable cartridge can be prevented from being replaced prematurely and the user from incurring excessive costs.

[0212] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, when the installed cartridge is still usable as detected by the remaining toner amount and the openable cover is locked in the closed state, it is indicated to the user who intends to open the openable cover that the opening of the openable cover is locked. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the user from not recognizing that the opening of the openable cover is locked and from damaging the openable cover by forcibly opening the openable cover.

[0213] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, when a spent cartridge is replaced, the openable cover is automatically locked to the closed state again until a new (unused) cartridge that has been newly installed is in a spent state detected by the remaining toner amount detection. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a cartridge that is installed and still usable from being replaced.

[0214] Incidentally, in the above-described embodiment, the solenoid is used as the electric drive portion for releasing the lock of the openable cover in the closed state, but other electric drive devices such as a DC motor and a stepping motor may be similarly applied.

[0215] While the above embodiment illustrates an example in which the remaining toner amount is determined by detecting the actual remaining toner amount using a remaining toner amount detection sensor, the remaining toner amount can also be determined by estimating the toner amount from the integrated value of the density of the print data of the latent image or the integrated value of the dot data.

[0216] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, after closing the openable cover, it is determined by detecting the remaining toner amount that the developer (developer) cartridge, which is in a cartridge replacement state and has been depleted, has been replaced with a new, usable developer cartridge, and then the openable cover is locked in the closed state again. Alternatively, it is possible to detect that the developer cartridge, which is in a cartridge replacement state and has been depleted, has been replaced with a new, usable developer cartridge by closing the openable cover, and then the openable cover is locked in the closed state again, without performing the determination by detecting the remaining toner amount. In that case, the replacement with the new, usable developer cartridge is then determined by detecting the remaining toner amount, and then it is only necessary to control the locking of the openable cover in the closed state.

[0217] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the locking of the openable cover is maintained even when the locking mechanism is in the lock release state, but the locking mechanism may be in the lock release state and then the locking maintenance of the openable cover may be released.

[0218] In the above-described embodiment, the image forming apparatus in which toner is used as the developer in the developer cartridge to be mounted is described as an example, but the present invention is also applicable to an image forming apparatus in which another developer such as ink is used.

[0219] In the above embodiment, a developer (developer) cartridge or a process cartridge is described as an example of a consumable item for determining the state of the cartridge to be replaced, but the present invention is equally applicable to a photosensitive drum and a toner cartridge. In addition, the present invention is also applicable to other consumable items. For example, in the above embodiment, although an electrophotographic type imaging device is described, the present invention is not limited thereto and is also applicable to the configuration of an inkjet type imaging device in which the door 21 is opened and the ink cartridge is then installed and removed.

[0220] While the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments.The scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. An imaging device comprising: a main assembly including a mounting portion on which consumables for image formation are mounted; an openable member provided with a to-be-engaged portion and configured to cover the mounting portion; an engaging member provided on the main assembly and configured to be movable between (i) an engaging position in which the engaging member engages with a portion to be engaged of the openable member in the closed position so as to restrict movement of the openable member relative to the main assembly, and (ii) a releasing position in which engagement of the engaging member with the portion to be engaged is released; an operating portion configured to move the engaging member so that the engaging member moves from the engaging position to the releasing position in interrelation with movement of the operating portion; a locking portion configured to be movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein (i) when the locking portion is in the locked position, the locking portion is capable of restricting movement of the operating portion for moving the engagement member from the engaged position to the released position, and (ii) when the locking portion is in the unlocked position, the locking portion is capable of allowing movement of the operating portion; an electric drive portion configured to move the locking portion; as well as a controller configured to control the electric drive portion, When the controller receives a signal indicating that the consumable product is in a replacement state where the consumable product is to be replaced, the controller controls the electric drive part so that the electric drive part moves the locking part from the locking position to the unlocking position.

2. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein The release portion is accessible from the outside of the main assembly through a hole provided in the openable member. 3 . The imaging apparatus according to claim 2 , further comprising a cover member supported by the openable member and movable between a position where the cover member covers the hole and a position where the hole is exposed.

4. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a slider configured to contact the operating portion and slidably move, in, The locking portion in the locking position is located in a region through which the slider passes to restrict movement of the slider.

5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a toner detector configured to detect an amount of toner in the consumable product, in, The controller is configured to control the electrically driven portion so that the locking portion moves from the locking position to the unlocking position when the amount of toner in the consumable product is less than a predetermined amount.

6. The imaging device according to claim 5, wherein The consumables include a plurality of cartridges, wherein the controller is configured to control the electric drive portion so that the locking portion moves from the locking position to the unlocking position when the amount of toner of at least one of the cartridges is less than the predetermined amount.

7. The imaging device according to claim 5, further comprising an operation detecting portion configured to detect movement of the operating portion, in, The toner detector is configured to detect an amount of toner in the consumable product when the operating portion moves. 8 . The imaging apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a display portion configured to display information related to engagement between the engaging member and the portion to be engaged. 9 . The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a closing detection portion configured to detect closing of the openable member.

10. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein The electric driving portion includes a solenoid for moving the locking portion via a plunger.

11. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising an urging member configured to urge the locking portion, in, The electric drive portion moves the locking portion against the urging force of the urging member.

12. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein The operating portion is configured to contact the engaging member.

13. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein The operating portion is configured to push the engaging member. 14 . The imaging apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising an operation detecting portion configured to detect movement of the operating portion.

15. The imaging device according to claim 14, wherein When the operating member moves in a state where the locking portion is in the locking position, the operation detecting portion can detect the movement of the operating portion.

16. The imaging device according to claim 15, further comprising an output portion, in, When the operation detection portion detects movement of the operation portion in a state in which the lock portion is in the lock position, the output portion can output an output indicating that the consumable product is not in the replacement state.

17. The imaging device according to claim 16, wherein The output portion includes a display configured to display information indicating that the consumable product is not in the replacement state.

18. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein The operating member is provided on the main assembly, and includes a button.

19. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein When the controller does not receive a signal indicating that the consumable product is in the replacement state, the locking portion is located at the locking position.

20. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein The consumables include a plurality of cartridges, and wherein the openable member is configured to cover the portion to which the cartridge is mounted.

Images