imaging device

Abstract

An imaging device (1) includes: an attachment portion (200) including an operating member (201) configured to move with a container gate (214); a toner storage portion (18) configured to store toner received from a receiving port (204); an actuator (402b) configured to control the movement of the operating member (201); and a control unit (130) configured to control the actuator (402b). The operating member (201) is configured to open and close the container gate (214) from the outside while the toner container (210) is attached to the attachment portion (200). Under predetermined conditions, the control unit (130) controls the actuator (402b) to release the movement control of the operating member (201).

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] In imaging devices of electrophotographic systems, there is a known configuration in which a replenishment container is used to replenish developer into a developer container, the replenishment container being attachable to and detachable from the imaging device. Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration in which the opening / closing of a gate component of the replenishment container is performed by rotating the replenishment container attached to the imaging device.

[0003] Citation List

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-154300. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical issues

[0007] However, the gate component described in Patent Document 1 can always be opened and closed when the replenishment container is rotated, and the replenishment of the toner cannot be controlled when it is not desired to perform the toner supply through the replenishment container.

[0008] Solution to the problem

[0009] According to a first aspect of the invention, an imaging apparatus includes an imaging toner container detachably attached to the apparatus. The toner container includes an opening for supplying toner and a gate configured to open and close the opening. The imaging apparatus includes an attachment portion to which the toner container is attached. The attachment portion includes: a receiving port configured to receive toner supplied from the toner container; an operating member configured to move with the gate and to open and close the gate from the outside while the toner container is attached to the attachment portion; a toner storage portion configured to store toner received from the receiving port; an actuator configured to control the movement of the operating member; and a control unit configured to control the actuator. Upon satisfying predetermined conditions, the control unit controls the actuator to release control over the movement of the operating member.

[0010] According to a second aspect of the present invention, an imaging apparatus includes: a receiving portion comprising a receiving port configured to receive toner supplied from an external source, a device body gate configured to open and close the receiving port, and an operating member configured to open and close the device body gate from the outside; a toner storage portion configured to store toner received from the receiving port; an actuator configured to control the movement of the operating member; and a control unit configured to control the actuator. Upon satisfying predetermined conditions, the control unit controls the actuator to release control over the movement of the operating member.

[0011] Beneficial effects of the invention

[0012] According to the present invention, the movement of the operating components can be controlled by an actuator. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the imaging device of the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the overall imaging equipment.

[0015] Figure 3A This is a perspective view of an imaging device with the back cover closed.

[0016] Figure 3B This is a perspective view of an imaging device with the back cover open.

[0017] Figure 3C This is a perspective view showing the on / off state of the detection sensor.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the developer container.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view showing the supplementary section and the developer container.

[0020] Figure 6A This is a perspective view of an imaging device showing the sheet discharge tray closed.

[0021] Figure 6B This is a perspective view of an imaging device showing the sheet discharge tray open.

[0022] Figure 6C This is a perspective view showing an imaging device with a supplementary package attached to the supplementary part.

[0023] Figure 6D It is a plan view showing the state of the supplement package attached to the supplement part.

[0024] Figure 7AThis is a perspective view representing the supplementary part.

[0025] Figure 7B It is a perspective view representing a supplementary section and a portion of the supplementary package.

[0026] Figure 7C This is a perspective view showing the supplementary portion when the operating portion is in the supplementary position.

[0027] Figure 8A This is a perspective view representing the operational portion.

[0028] Figure 8B This is a perspective view showing the operating part and the top surface part.

[0029] Figure 8C It is a perspective view showing how the operating part is attached to the top surface part.

[0030] Figure 9A This is a perspective view showing the replenishment package when the package gate is in the closed position.

[0031] Figure 9B This is a perspective view showing the replenishment package when the package gate is in the closed position.

[0032] Figure 10A This is a perspective view of the replenishment package when the package gate is in the open position.

[0033] Figure 10B This is a perspective view of the replenishment package when the package gate is in the open position.

[0034] Figure 11A This is an exploded perspective view representing the supplementary package.

[0035] Figure 11B This is another exploded perspective view representing the supplementary package.

[0036] Figure 12A This is a bottom view showing the first locking mechanism in the locked state.

[0037] Figure 12B This is a cross-sectional view showing the first locking mechanism in the locked state.

[0038] Figure 13A This is a bottom view showing the first locking mechanism in the unlocked state.

[0039] Figure 13B This is a cross-sectional view showing the first locking mechanism in the unlocked state.

[0040] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view showing the state of the supplementary package attached to the supplementary part.

[0041] Figure 15 This is a perspective view showing the second locking mechanism.

[0042] Figure 16A This is an exploded perspective view showing the second locking mechanism.

[0043] Figure 16B This is another exploded perspective view representing the second locking mechanism.

[0044] Figure 17A This is a perspective view showing the second locking mechanism in a locked state.

[0045] Figure 17B This is a perspective view showing the second locking mechanism in the unlocked state.

[0046] Figure 18A This is a perspective view taken from the bottom surface side, showing the second locking mechanism in the locked state.

[0047] Figure 18B This is a perspective view taken from the bottom surface side, showing the second locking mechanism in the unlocked state.

[0048] Figure 19A This is a bottom view showing the second locking mechanism in the locked state.

[0049] Figure 19B yes Figure 19A Enlarged image.

[0050] Figure 19C This is a bottom view showing the second locking mechanism in the unlocked state.

[0051] Figure 20A It is a perspective view representing the window portion and the first display portion.

[0052] Figure 20B It is a perspective view representing the window portion and the second display portion.

[0053] Figure 21 It is a block diagram used to represent the functions of the power board.

[0054] Figure 22 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of determining whether a solenoid is energized.

[0055] Figure 23A This is a plan view showing the second locking mechanism and operating parts in the unlocked state.

[0056] Figure 23B This is a bottom view showing the second locking mechanism and operating part in the unlocked state.

[0057] Figure 24A This is a plan view showing the second locking mechanism and operating parts in the locked state.

[0058] Figure 24B This is a bottom view showing the second locking mechanism and operating part in the unlocked state.

[0059] Figure 25A This is a plan view showing the operating state of the operating part when the second locking mechanism is in the locked state.

[0060] Figure 25B This is a bottom view showing the state in which the operating part operates when the second locking mechanism is in the locked state.

[0061] Figure 26 This is a perspective view showing the display component of the second embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0062] The embodiments for carrying out the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the dimensions, materials, shapes, relative arrangements, etc., of the components described in these embodiments will vary appropriately depending on the construction of the device to which the present invention is applied and various circumstances. That is, it should be understood that the scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0063] First Embodiment

[0064] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the imaging device 1 of the first embodiment. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the structure of imaging device 1. Imaging device 1 is a monochrome printer that forms an image on recording material based on image information input from an external device. Recording materials include various sheet materials of different materials, including paper such as standard paper and cardboard, plastic film such as sheets used for overhead projectors, specially shaped sheets such as envelopes and index paper, fabrics, etc.

[0065] Furthermore, in the following description, when the imaging device 1 is mounted on a horizontal surface, the height direction (the direction opposite to the vertical direction) is referred to as the Z direction. As described below, the direction that intersects the Z direction and is parallel to the rotation axis direction (main scanning direction) of the photosensitive drum 11 is referred to as the X direction. The direction that intersects the X and Z directions is referred to as the Y direction. Preferably, the X, Y, and Z directions intersect each other perpendicularly. Moreover, for convenience, the positive and negative sides of the X direction are referred to as the right side and left side, the positive and negative sides of the Y direction are referred to as the front side or front portion side and the rear side or rear portion side, and the positive and negative sides of the Z direction are referred to as the upper side and lower side, respectively.

[0066] Overall Structure

[0067] like Figure 1 and 2As shown, the imaging device 1 includes: an imaging unit 20 that forms a toner image on a recording material; a sheet supply unit 30 that supplies the recording material P; a fixing unit 9 that fixes the toner image formed by the imaging unit 20 onto the recording material P; and a sheet discharge roller pair 10.

[0068] The imaging unit 20 includes a scanner unit 50, a processing unit 40 of the electrophotographic system, and a transfer roller 7 that transfers the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 11 onto the recording material P. The processing unit 40 includes the photosensitive drum 11, a cleaning unit 13 arranged adjacent to the photosensitive drum 11, a charging roller 17, a developing roller 12, and a storage section 18 for storing toner. It should be noted that the processing unit 40 can be fixed to the housing 72 of the imaging device 1 with screws and includes components that can be disassembled by maintenance personnel.

[0069] The photosensitive drum 11, used as an image carrier component, is a photosensitive component formed in a cylindrical shape. The photosensitive drum 11 includes a photosensitive layer formed of a negatively charged organic photosensitive material on a drum-shaped substrate made of aluminum. Furthermore, the photosensitive drum 11, used as an image carrier component, can be driven by a motor at a predetermined processing speed along a predetermined direction (…). Figure 1 The arrow R in the image indicates the direction of rotational drive.

[0070] The charging roller 17 forms a charging portion by contacting the photosensitive drum 11 with a predetermined pressure contact force. Furthermore, since the desired charging voltage is applied through a high-voltage charging power supply, the surface of the photosensitive drum 11 is uniformly charged to a predetermined potential. In this embodiment, the photosensitive drum 11 is charged to a negative polarity by the charging roller 17.

[0071] The scanner unit 50 scans and exposes the surface of the photosensitive drum 11 by irradiating it with a laser beam corresponding to image information input from an external device using a polygonal lens. Through this exposure, an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image information is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 11. It should be noted that the scanner unit 50 is not limited to a laser scanner device; for example, an LED exposure device with a light-emitting diode (LED) array can be used, in which multiple LEDs are arranged in rows along the longitudinal direction of the photosensitive drum 11.

[0072] The developing roller 12 is rotatably supported by a storage portion 18, which serves as a toner storage portion. Furthermore, in order to face the photosensitive drum 11, the developing roller 12 is arranged in a developer container 230 including the storage portion 18 (see reference). Figure 4 In the opening portion of the developing roller 12. It should be noted that a supply roller may be arranged in the storage portion 18, which applies toner used as developer to the surface of the developing roller 12.

[0073] In this embodiment, the processing unit 40 uses a contact developing system as the developing system. That is, the toner layer carried on the developing roller 12 is in contact with the photosensitive drum 11 in the developing portion (developing area) where the photosensitive drum 11 and the developing roller 12 face each other. The developing voltage is applied to the developing roller 12 by a high-voltage developing power supply. By transferring the toner carried by the developing roller 12 from the developing roller 12 to the drum surface under the developing voltage according to the potential distribution on the surface of the photosensitive drum 11, the electrostatic latent image is developed into a toner image.

[0074] Furthermore, the toner in this embodiment does not contain magnetic components and is a so-called non-magnetic single-component developer. Its toner is primarily carried by the developing roller 12 through intermolecular forces and electrostatic forces (image forces). However, single-component developers containing magnetic components can also be used. Moreover, to adjust the toner's flowability and charging performance, additives different from the toner particles (e.g., wax and fine silica particles) are sometimes included in single-component developers. Furthermore, two-component developers composed of a non-magnetic toner and a magnetic carrier can be used. When using a magnetic carrier, a cylindrical developing sleeve is used as the developer carrier, and a magnet is arranged inside the developing sleeve.

[0075] The fixing unit 9 is a thermal fixing method, which performs image fixing processing by heating and melting the toner on the recording material. The fixing unit 9 includes a heating roller 9a containing a fixing heater 9c and a pressure roller 9b in pressure contact with the heating roller 9a.

[0076] The sheet supply unit 30 includes: a cartridge 4 in which recording material P is stacked; a pick-up roller 3, used as a conveying unit; a supply roller 5a; and a separation roller 5b. A front cover 70 is disposed in a portion of the end surface on the front side of the imaging device 1 and covers the circuit board 100. The housing 72 includes the front cover 70, a sheet discharge tray 14, and a rear cover 73 (see reference). Figure 3A The outer cover 71 constitutes the exterior of the imaging device 1, excluding the front cover 70, the sheet discharge tray 14, and the rear cover 73. A sheet discharge port 15 is formed in the housing 72, through which the sheet is discharged to the sheet discharge tray 14.

[0077] like Figure 2 As shown, the imaging device 1 includes a circuit board 100. The circuit board 100 comprises a wiring board 101 and electronic components 111 and 121. The wiring board 101 is made of an insulator, and the electronic components 111 and 121 are soldered onto the wiring board 101. Since conductive wiring is present on the surface and inside the wiring board 101, the electronic components 111 and 121 are electrically connected to each other. The circuit board 100 has functions such as converting alternating current supplied from outside the imaging device 1 into direct current and converting the input voltage to obtain a predetermined voltage value required for imaging processing.

[0078] The circuit board 100 is arranged such that the surface of the wiring board 101 (on which electronic components 111 and 121 are attached) intersects the sheet discharge direction. Furthermore, the wiring board 101 is arranged between the front cover 70 and the scanning unit 50 along the sheet discharge direction. On the wiring board 101, electronic components 111 and 121 are arranged on the side facing the scanning unit 50.

[0079] The imaging operation of imaging device 1 will now be described. When an imaging command is input to imaging device 1, imaging processing by imaging unit 20 begins based on image information input from an external computer connected to imaging device 1. Scanner unit 50 irradiates a laser beam toward photosensitive drum 11 based on the input image information. At this time, photosensitive drum 11 has been pre-charged by charging roller 17, and an electrostatic latent image is formed on photosensitive drum 11 by irradiating it with the laser beam. Then, the electrostatic latent image is developed by developing roller 12, and a toner image is formed on photosensitive drum 11.

[0080] In parallel with the imaging process described above, the pickup roller 3 of the sheet supply unit 30 delivers the recording material P supported on the cartridge 4. The recording material P is separated into one sheet at a time by the supply roller 5a and the separation roller 5b, and then conveyed to the transfer roller pair 5c. The recording material P is then conveyed toward the transfer clamping part N1, which serves as the imaging part formed by the transfer roller 7 and the photosensitive drum 11, via the transfer roller pair 5c, which acts as the transfer unit.

[0081] A transfer voltage is applied from a high-voltage transfer power supply to the transfer roller 7, transferring the toner image carried on the photosensitive drum 11 onto the recording material P conveyed by the transfer roller pair 5c. The recording material P, on which the toner image has been transferred, is conveyed to the fixing unit 9. As it passes through the clamping portion between the heating roller 9a and the pressure roller 9b of the fixing unit 9, the toner image is heated and pressurized. Therefore, the toner particles melt, and then the toner image is fixed onto the recording material P by adhesion. The recording material P, having passed through the fixing unit 9, is discharged from the sheet discharge port 15 to the outside of the imaging device 1 via the sheet discharge roller pair 10 and loaded onto the sheet discharge tray 14. After the toner image is transferred onto the recording material P, the toner remaining on the photosensitive drum 11 is cleaned by the cleaning unit 13.

[0082] It should be noted that although the imaging device 1 of this embodiment is configured to form an image on only one side of the recording material P, it is not limited thereto. For example, it can be configured such that by arranging a dual transport path for flipping the recording material P (on which the image has already been formed on the first surface of the recording material P), the imaging device 1 can form images on both surfaces of the recording material P.

[0083] like Figure 3A and 3B As shown, a rear cover 73 is disposed in the rear surface of the imaging device 1, and the rear cover 73 is supported in a manner that allows it to be opened and closed. The rear cover 73, which serves as an opening / closing component, covers the processing unit 40 in the closed state, and exposes the processing unit 40 by opening it.

[0084] Furthermore, by opening the rear cover 73, the conveying path 19 through which the sheet conveyed by the conveyor roller to 5c passes is opened (see reference). Figure 2 In other words, the back cover 73 can move between a closed position H1 covering the transport path 19 and an open position H2 exposing the transport path 19 to the outside. Therefore, it is possible to disengage any paper jams that occur in the transport path 19.

[0085] A gripping portion 73c is arranged on the outer surface 73b of the rear cover 73 (that is, the surface constituting the outer surface of the housing 72), which the user can grip when opening and closing the rear cover 73. Ribs 74 and a support portion 75 are arranged on the inner surface 73d (the inner surface 73d is on the side opposite to the outer surface 73b of the rear cover 73), the support portion 75 rotatably supporting the transfer roller 7. The ribs 74 extend from the inner surface 73d toward the direction in which the rear cover 73 is closed.

[0086] An opening 76 is provided in the imaging device 1. With the rear cover 73 closed, the opening 76 is positioned corresponding to the rib 74, and an on / off detection sensor 80 is disposed inside the opening 76. It should be noted that it is acceptable for the opening 76 to be disposed within the processing unit 40, or in a component of the imaging device 1 that is different from the processing unit 40.

[0087] like Figure 3C As shown, the open / close detection sensor 80 includes a marking portion 81 and a sensor portion 82. When the marking portion 81 is pressed by the rib 74 of the rear cover 73, the sensor portion 82 changes from a closed state to an open state, for example. Furthermore, when the rear cover 73 is opened, the rib 74 of the rear cover 73 separates from the marking portion 81, and the sensor portion 82 changes from an open state to a closed state, for example. As described above, the open / close detection sensor 80 can detect the opening / closing of the rear cover 73.

[0088] Developer container

[0089] The following will use Figure 4 and 5 The developer container 230 and the structures surrounding it are described. For example... Figure 4As shown, the developer container 230 comprises a storage portion 18 and a replenishment portion 200, which serves as both an attachment portion and a receiving portion. The replenishment portion 200 includes an operation portion 201, a cylindrical toner receiving portion 202, a replenishment path portion 203 connecting the toner receiving portion 202 and the storage portion 18, and a device body gate portion 206 serving as a device body gate. A side opening 205 leading to the replenishment path portion 203 is formed in the inner wall of the toner receiving portion 202.

[0090] like Figure 5 As shown below, the replenishment pack 210 is attached to the replenishment section 200, and the toner discharged from the replenishment pack 210 is replenished to the storage section 18 through the opening 207 of the device body gate section 206, the side opening 205 of the toner receiving section 202, and the replenishment path section 203.

[0091] like Figure 4 As shown, the supplementary path portion 203 is connected to one side of the first end of the storage portion 18 along the longitudinal direction (i.e., along the X direction) of the developer container 230. Inside the storage portion 18, as... Figure 5 As shown, a stirring member 60 is arranged, which rotates about a rotating shaft 60a extending in the X direction as a center. The stirring member 60 includes a blade portion 60b, which is fixed to the rotating shaft 60a and is driven rotatably by a drive motor 311 to convey toner toward the developing roller 12 while stirring the toner inside the storage section 18. It should be noted that although the stirring member 60 in this embodiment consists of a rotating shaft 60a and a blade portion 60b, it is acceptable to use a spiral stirring member as a configuration for dispensing toner along the entire length of the storage section 18.

[0092] Furthermore, the stirring member 60 has the function of homogenizing the toner inside the storage section 18 by circulating the toner that has been stripped from the developing roller 12 but has not yet been used for development. It should be noted that the stirring member 60 is not limited to a rotating form. For example, it is acceptable to use a stirring member in an oscillating form. Moreover, it is acceptable to arrange another stirring member in addition to the stirring member 60.

[0093] Furthermore, a residual quantity detection sensor 312 (which serves as a sensor for detecting the toner dosage inside the storage section 18) is arranged within the storage section 18, and the residual quantity detection sensor 312 includes a light emitting portion 312a and a light receiving portion 312b. Light emitted from the light emitting portion 312a passes through the interior of the storage section 18 and is received by the light receiving portion 312b. That is, the light emitting portion 312a and the light receiving portion 312b form an optical path Q1 inside the storage section 18. It should be noted that the light emitting portion 312a and the light receiving portion 312b can be arranged by placing each of the light emitting element and the light receiving element inside the storage section 18, or it is acceptable to guide light to the interior and exterior of the storage section 18 by placing each of the light emitting element and the light receiving element outside the storage section 18 using a light guide portion.

[0094] Furthermore, the light emitting portion 312a and the light receiving portion 312b are arranged along the X direction in the central portion of the storage portion 18. By arranging the light emitting portion 312a and the light receiving portion 312b in the central portion of the storage portion 18, the remaining amount of toner in the storage portion 18 can be satisfactorily detected. That is, the developer (toner) may sometimes be unevenly distributed along the X direction in the end portions of the storage portion 18, but since the uneven distribution of the developer is less in the central portion, the actual remaining amount of toner can be detected.

[0095] It should be noted that in this embodiment, an LED is used for the light emitting section 312a, and a photoresistor that is turned on by the light from the LED is used for the light receiving section 312b. However, this embodiment is not limited to this. For example, halogen lamps and fluorescent lamps are acceptable for use in the light emitting section 312a, and photodiodes and avalanche photodiodes are acceptable for use in the light receiving section 312b.

[0096] The light-receiving section 312b, acting as a photoresistor, receives light emitted from the light-emitting section 312a and outputs a signal (current) corresponding to the amount of light received. This signal is converted into a voltage and input to the engine controller 130 (reference). Figure 21 In other words, the light receiving section 312b changes the output value according to the amount of toner (developer) stored in the storage section 18.

[0097] Based on the input voltage level, the engine controller 130 determines whether the light receiving section 312b receives light from the light emitting section 312a. Based on the duration of each type of light detected by the light receiving section 312b during a specific time when the toner is stirred within the storage section 18, the engine controller 130 calculates the amount of toner (developer) within the storage section 18. In other words, the engine controller 130's read-only memory (ROM) pre-stores a table that outputs the remaining amount of toner based on the light receiving time when the stirring member 60 delivers the toner, and the engine controller 130 estimates / calculates the remaining amount of toner based on this table.

[0098] When the remaining amount of toner is large, the light path Q1 is easily blocked by the toner, thus shortening the duration of light reception by the light receiving section 312b. On the other hand, when the remaining amount of toner is small, the duration of light reception by the light receiving section 312b is extended. Therefore, as described above, the engine controller 130 can determine the remaining level of toner inside the storage section 18 based on the light reception time of the light receiving section 312b.

[0099] It should be noted that the method for detecting / estimating the remaining toner amount is not limited to the methods described above, and various known methods can be applied. For example, by arranging two or more metal plates or conductive resin sheets extending along the longitudinal direction of the developing roller 12 on the inner wall of the storage section 18, it is acceptable to estimate / calculate the remaining toner amount by measuring the electrostatic capacitance between the two metal plates or two conductive resin sheets. Alternatively, by arranging the load unit in the form of supporting the developer container 230 from below, it is acceptable to calculate the remaining toner amount based on the weight measured by the load unit.

[0100] Supplementary section

[0101] The following will use Figures 6A to 8C Let's introduce supplementary section 200. It can be used in the closed position (capable of loading and recording material P, such as...) Figure 6A (as shown) and the open position (open relative to the device body of imaging device 1, such as...) Figure 6B The sheet discharge tray 14 is supported by opening and closing in a manner shown. In the closed position, the sheet discharge tray 14 covers the replenishment portion 200. When the sheet discharge tray 14 is opened to the open position, the top surface portion 240 and the replenishment portion 200 disposed on the top surface portion 240 are exposed. The replenishment portion 200 is configured to allow attachment and removal of the replenishment package 210 (as shown). Figure 6C (as shown), and is configured so that users and service personnel can replenish the toner from the outside without having to remove the developer container 230 from the housing 72.

[0102] like Figures 6B to 6D As shown, an operating portion 201, serving as an operating component, is arranged on the top surface portion 240 and forms a replenishment port 204, which is a receiving port for replenishing toner. Along the X direction, the width of the replenishment port 204 is narrower than the width of the storage portion 18. Furthermore, the operating portion 201 is arranged to surround the replenishment port 204 and includes a ring portion 201a rotatably supported by the top surface portion 240 or the toner receiving portion 202, and a rod portion 201b integrally arranged with the ring portion 201a. The operating portion 201 is a component for externally operating the opening / closing of the device body gate portion 206 and the enclosure gate portion 214.

[0103] like Figure 7A As shown, guide portions 247 and 248, arranged inside the device body gate portion 206 and integrated with the toner receiving portion 202, are disposed within the toner receiving portion 202. The device body gate portion 206 is a cylindrical component concentric with the toner receiving portion 202 and is rotatably arranged inside the toner receiving portion 202. The device body gate portion 206 includes an opening 207 (see reference). Figure 7C The opening 207 and the side opening 205 of the toner receiving portion 202 are located at... Figure 7A The closed positions shown are not aligned. The sealing component 243 is fixed to the gate portion 206 of the device body to surround the circumferential edge portion of the opening 207.

[0104] It should be noted that, since the side opening 205 is covered by the gate portion 206 of the equipment body in the closed position, the side opening 205 is... Figure 7A The area is indicated by a dashed line. Therefore, the side opening 205 is obscured by the device body gate portion 206, and the toner is not discharged into the replenishment path portion 203. When the replenishment package 210 is not attached, the operating portion 201 is controlled in the rotational direction by the first locking mechanism 250, as described below. This first locking mechanism 250 prevents the replenishment package 210 from being unable to be attached before it is attached due to phase misalignment between the driving transmission protrusion 201d of the operating portion and the driving transmission protrusion 206a of the device body gate portion.

[0105] Moreover, when the gate portion 206 of the equipment body is located Figure 7C In the open position shown, opening 207 overlaps with the side opening 205 of the toner receiving portion 202. Therefore, the replenishment package 210 (see reference 207) attached to the replenishment portion 200 can be retrieved through the side opening 205 and opening 207. Figure 6C The added toner is discharged into the replenishment path section 203.

[0106] A drive transmission protrusion 206a is arranged on the device body gate portion 206. Although details will be described later, the drive transmission protrusion 206a is used to receive drive from the supplementary package 210 to pivot the device body gate portion 206. By rotatably manipulating the operating portion 201 with the supplementary package 210 attached to the supplementary portion 200, the device body gate portion 206 moves between a closed position and an open position.

[0107] An operating portion drive transmission protrusion 201d is arranged on the operating portion 201, and this operating portion drive transmission protrusion 201d protrudes further inward in the radial direction than the inner circumferential surface of the toner receiving portion 202. The operating portion drive transmission protrusion 201d passes through a pair of drive transmission surfaces 214b of the package gate portion 214 of the supplementary package 210 (reference). Figure 9B The device body gate portion drive transmission protrusion 206a engages with the device body gate portion drive transmission protrusion 206a. As described below, the locking release concave portion 201f is arranged on the device body gate portion drive transmission protrusion 206a. When the user rotates the lever portion 201b of the operating part 201 90 degrees counterclockwise, the device body gate portion drive transmission protrusion 206a... Figure 7A The indicated closing position moves to Figure 7C The opening position is shown.

[0108] When an image is formed on the recording material P, the side opening 205 needs to be blocked by the device body gate portion 206 to prevent the toner from leaking from the side opening 205 due to the stirring member 60 stirring the toner inside the storage portion 18 (see reference). Figure 5 Therefore, when forming an image, the operation section 201 is positioned at... Figure 7A The operating position shown is used to position the gate portion 206 of the device body in the closed position. On the other hand, when replenishing the toner from the refill pack 210, the side opening 205 needs to be opened as described below. Therefore, when replenishing the toner, the operating portion 201 is located in... Figure 7C The supplementary position shown is used to position the gate portion 206 of the equipment body in the open position.

[0109] like Figure 8B As shown, the operating part 201 is rotatably supported by the support part 240a of the top surface part 240. Figure 8AAs shown, the operating portion 201 includes a retaining portion 201j, an engaging portion 201k, and an opening portion 201e. Along the rotation direction of the operating portion 201, the retaining portion 201j is substantially arranged in the same position as the lever portion 201b, while the engaging portion 201k is arranged in a different position from the retaining portion 201j. The lever locking press portion 227a (described below) of the lever locking member 227 can be inserted into the opening portion 201e. By inserting the lever locking press portion 227a into the opening portion 201e, the rotation of the operating portion 201 is controlled in the operating position.

[0110] like Figure 8C As shown, the operating portion 201 is attached to the support portion 240a by positioning the retaining portion 201j at the slot portion 240d arranged in the support portion 240a. It should be noted that when the operating portion 201 is positioned in the operating position or the supplementary position, the retaining portion 201j and the slot portion 240d are positioned so as not to overlap when viewed along the rotation axis of the operating portion 201. Furthermore, within the range of pivoting of the operating portion 201 between the operating position and the supplementary position, the retaining portion 201j and the slot portion 240d do not overlap when viewed along the rotation axis of the operating portion 201. In other words, when the operating portion 201 is manipulated between the operating position and the supplementary position, the operating portion 201 is held relative to the support portion 240a of the top surface portion 240.

[0111] Refill Pack

[0112] The following will use Figures 9A to 11B Let's introduce the structure of Supplement Pack 210. Figure 9A and 9B This is a perspective view of the supplementary package when the package gate portion 214 is in the closed position. Figure 10A and 10B This indicates the supplementary package when the gate portion 214 is in the open position. Figure 11A and 11B This is an exploded perspective view representing the supplementary package.

[0113] The refill pack 210, used as a toner container, includes: a pouch portion 211 serving as a bag for containing toner for refilling; a cylindrical insert portion 212 inserted into a refill port 204; and a gate portion 214 serving as a container gate. The insert portion 212, serving as a nozzle portion, communicates with the pouch portion 211. An opening 213 is formed in the insert portion 212, serving as an opening through which toner inside the pouch portion 211 is discharged outwards. It should be noted that although the pouch portion 211 is constructed of a deformable plastic bag, it is not limited to this. For example, the pouch portion 211 can be constructed from a resin bottle container or a container made of paper and vinyl resin.

[0114] Furthermore, the retaining portion 215 is arranged at the top end of the insertion portion 212, and the pouch end portion 216 is formed at the end opposite to the insertion portion 212. The pouch portion 211 has a flat shape toward the pouch end portion 216, and the pouch end portion 216 extends in a radial direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the gate portion 214.

[0115] The gate portion 214 is a cylindrical member concentric with the insertion portion 212 and is arranged radially outward of the insertion portion 212. The gate portion 214 includes an opening 214c and can be rotated relative to the insertion portion 212 to switch between a closed position that covers the opening 213 of the insertion portion 212 and an open position that opens the opening 213. When the opening 214c of the gate portion 214 overlaps with the opening 213 of the insertion portion 212, toner can be replenished from the replenishment pack 210 to the replenishment portion 200.

[0116] Furthermore, the sealing member 231 (which is capable of sliding and rubbing against the outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion 212) is fixed to the inner circumferential surface of the gate portion 214, and when the gate portion 241 is in the closed position, the sealing member 231 covers the opening 213 of the insertion portion 212.

[0117] like Figure 11A As shown, a guided portion 232, recessed from the outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion 212, is formed within the insertion portion 212. The guided portion 232 includes a pair of first guided portions 232a and a second guided portion 232b. When the refill pack 210 is attached to the refill portion 200, guide portions 247 and 248, integral with the toner receiving portion 202, are inserted into the guided portion 232. Therefore, the relative movement between the insertion portion 212 and the toner receiving portion 202 in the circumferential direction about the central axis of the pack gate 214 is mutually controlled.

[0118] Moreover, such as Figure 11B As shown, the outer circumferential surface of the gate portion 214 includes a positioning portion 217 that engages with the operating portion 201 and a drive transmission surface 214b facing the positioning portion 217. That is, a groove shape (a concave portion recessed inward along the radial direction of the gate portion 214) is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the gate portion 214, wherein the positioning portion 217 serves as the bottom surface of the groove, and the drive transmission surface 214b serves as the side surface of the groove. This groove portion opens at the end of the outer circumferential surface of the gate portion 214 along the insertion direction of the insertion portion 212. When the drive transmission surface 214b receives force from the operating portion drive transmission protrusion 201d of the operating portion 201 in the circumferential direction, the gate portion 214 rotates relative to the insertion portion 212. A rod-locking release rib 214a of the first locking mechanism 250 (described below) that releases the operating portion 201 is arranged between the drive transmission surfaces 214b. By arranging the lever locking release rib 214a between the drive transmission surfaces 214b, the first locking mechanism 250 of the operating part 201 can be precisely released when the supplementary package 210 is attached.

[0119] Moreover, such as Figure 11A and 11B As shown, a memory tag 219, which serves as a memory, is held at a holding portion 215 located at the top of the insertion portion 212. The memory tag 219 stores predetermined authentication information.

[0120] When the gate portion 214 is in the closed position, the insertion portion 212 enters a state in which the rotational phase of the opening 214c arranged in the gate portion 214 and the guided portion 232 arranged in a manner recessed from the outer circumferential surface of the insertion portion 212 overlaps with each other in the circumferential direction. In this state, the guide portions 247 and 248 of the supplementary portion 200 are inserted into the guided portion 232 of the supplementary package 210, and the opening 214c engages with the circumferential edge of the sealing member 243 arranged on the inner circumferential surface of the device body gate member 206. When the supplementary package 210 is attached to the supplementary portion 200, in the guided portion 232, the first guided portion 232a on the upstream side along the insertion direction engages with the guide portion 247, and the second guided portion 232b on the downstream side faces the guide portion 248. The surface extending circumferentially as a stepped portion between the first and second guided portions 232a and 232b engages with the surface extending circumferentially as a stepped portion between guide portions 247 and 248 along the insertion direction, and defines its position between the insertion portion 212 and the operating portion 201 along the insertion direction. The opening 214c has a shape that widens towards the top end of the insertion portion 212 and opens in a groove shape. A pair of facing portions forming the opening 214c and facing each other circumferentially enter a state where the sealing member 243 is clamped circumferentially.

[0121] While engaging with the operating portion drive transmission protrusion 201d of the operating portion 201, the drive transmission surface 214b of the gate portion 214 engages with the equipment body gate portion drive transmission protrusion 206a of the equipment body gate portion 206. While moving (rotating) due to the operating (motion) force of the operating portion 201, the gate portion 214 causes the equipment body gate portion 206 to move by transmitting the operating force. That is, as a force receiving area, the drive transmission surface 214b includes a region for engaging and contacting with the operating portion drive transmission protrusion 201d. The operating portion drive transmission protrusion 201d has the shape of a protrusion extending radially inward from the inner circumferential surface of the operating portion 201, and as a force applying area, the drive transmission surface 214b has a region for engaging and contacting with the equipment body gate portion drive transmission protrusion 206a.

[0122] Explanation of the first locking mechanism

[0123] The following will refer to Figures 7A to 7C and Figures 12A to 13B Introducing the first locking mechanism 250. (For example...) Figures 7A to 7C and Figure 12BAs shown, the first locking mechanism 250 includes a lever locking component 227, a lever locking release link 229, and a pressing spring 228. The lever locking release link 229 includes a contact surface 229b that contacts the lever locking component 227, and the lever locking component 227, which serves as a second control component, is pressed against the contact surface 229b by the pressing spring 228. When the supplementary pack 210 is not attached, the operating part 201 is controlled by the first locking mechanism 250 in the rotational direction and is in an operating position serving as the initial position.

[0124] When the lever locking component 227 is locked by being positioned in the control position F1, which serves as the second control position, Figure 12A and 12B The figures show a bottom view and a cross-sectional view of the operating part 201 and the first locking mechanism 250, respectively. When the lever locking member 227 is unlocked by being positioned in the release position F2, which serves as the second control release position, in Figure 13A and 13B The figures show the bottom view and the sectional view of the operating part 201 and the first locking mechanism 250, respectively.

[0125] like Figure 12A and 12B As shown, when the first locking mechanism 250 is in the locked state, the lever locking member 227 is pressed by the pressing spring 228 and positioned in the controlled position F1. Then, the lever locking pressing portion 227a of the lever locking member 227 is inserted into the opening portion 201e of the operating portion 201. When the operating portion 201 pivots in this state, as... Figure 12A As shown, the inner wall of the opening portion 201e pivots along pivot paths R1 and R2. P1 represents the transition portion between the rotation control surface 227b and the inclined surface 227d, and P2 represents the transition portion of the rotation control surface 227c. When the first locking mechanism 250 is in the locked state, P1 and P2 are arranged inside the pivot paths R1 and R2. Therefore, the inner wall of the opening portion 201e contacts and locks with the rotation control surfaces 227b and 227c (which are surfaces perpendicular to the direction of rotation), and controls the pivoting of the operating portion 201. That is, the lever locking member 227 controls the movement of the operating portion 201 in the controlled position F1.

[0126] like Figure 13A and 13BAs shown, when the replenishment pack 210 is attached, the lever lock release rib 214a passes through the lock release recess 201f and contacts the lever lock release link 229. The lever lock release link 229 includes an inclined surface shape 229a that contacts the lever lock release rib 214a. The lever lock release link 229 receives a force from the pack gate portion 214 for moving the lever lock member 227 from the control position F1 to the release position F2 through the contact between the inclined surface shape 229a and the lever lock release rib 214a. The inclined surface shape 229a has a shape that is inclined relative to the insertion direction of the replenishment pack 210 insertion operation portion 201. That is, the inclined surface shape 229a is set to be inclined so that the component force acting in the direction of movement of the lever lock release link 229 to the pressing position is included in the force received from the lever lock release rib 214a.

[0127] like Figure 13B As shown, the lever lock release link 229 enters a state in which the inclined surface shape 229a is pressed in the direction of the arrow by the force received from the lever lock release rib 214a, and the end portion (the inclined surface portion 229a is disposed on this end portion) rides on the side surface of the lever lock release rib 214a. Therefore, the lever lock release link 229 moves to the pressed position, in which the contact surface 229b causes the lever lock member 227 to move to the release position F2. Thus, while resisting the pushing force of the pressing spring 228, the lever lock member 227, which is in contact with the lever lock release link 229, moves in the direction of the arrow to the release position F2.

[0128] like Figure 13A As shown, when the lever locking member 227 is positioned in the release position F2, P1 moves to the outside of the pivot trajectory R1, while P2 remains inside the pivot trajectory R2. Therefore, when the lever portion 201b pivots in the direction of the arrow, the inclined surface 227d contacts the inner wall of the opening portion 201e, and by means of a component force, the lever locking member 227 can ride on the inclined surface 227d by moving further outward in the radial direction than in the release position F2. Therefore, by allowing the lever portion 201b to pivot in the direction of the arrow, the lever locking member 227 can cause the operating portion 201 to pivot to the supplementary position.

[0129] When the lever locking component 227 is positioned in the release position F2, since P2 remains inside R2, the lever portion 201b controls the movement along the... Figure 13A The pivoting is in the opposite direction to the arrow in the diagram. That is, the lever locking member 227 releases control over the movement of the operating part 201 in the release position F2. In this embodiment, by arranging the assembly phase of the operating part 201 along the direction controlling the pivoting, after assembly, the operating part 201 is prevented from pivoting to the assembly phase, while allowing the operating part 201 to pivot to the supplementary position.

[0130] The process of replenishing toner

[0131] The following will use Figures 6A to 14 This section will explain the process of using refill pack 210 to replenish toner. First, as... Figures 6A to 6C As shown, the user removes the recording material P from the sheet discharge tray 14 and opens the sheet discharge tray 14 from the closed position to the open position. Therefore, the replenishment section 200 is exposed. Since the replenishment section 200 is arranged on the upper front surface of the imaging device 1, toner replenishment is easily performed.

[0132] With the sheet discharge tray 14 open to the open position and the replenishment portion 200 exposed, the pivoting of the operating portion 201 is controlled by the first locking mechanism 250. Then, the operating portion 201 is positioned in the operating position.

[0133] Then, the user drives the transmission protrusion 201d (reference) by causing the operating part arranged on the supplementary part 200. Figure 7A ) and the positioning part 217 arranged in the supplementary package 210 (see reference) Figure 11B The supplementary package 210 is attached to the supplementary portion 200 by alignment. It is configured such that if the positions of the operating portion drive transmission protrusion 201d and the positioning portion 217 do not match, the supplementary package 210 interferes with the operating portion drive transmission protrusion 201d, and the insertion of the supplementary package 210 is not allowed.

[0134] Figure 6C This is a perspective view showing the state in which the supplementary package 210 is attached to the supplementary portion 200. In this embodiment, as... Figure 6C As shown, when the direction of arrow D (which is the extension direction of the pouch end portion 216) is parallel to the X direction, the replenishment pack 210 can be attached to the replenishment portion 200. When the replenishment pack is inserted into the rear of the replenishment portion 200, the drive transmission surface 214b forming the positioning portion 217 engages with the operation portion drive transmission protrusion 201d of the operation portion 201. Furthermore, the drive transmission surface 214b of the pack gate portion 214 engages with the device body gate portion drive transmission protrusion 206a.

[0135] In other words, the rotation of the operating part 201 is transmitted to the package gate part 214, and the rotation of the package gate part 214 is transmitted to the equipment body gate part 206. Therefore, the equipment body gate part 206 and the package gate part 214 are integrated by engaging with each other, and the package gate part 214 and the equipment body gate part 206 are interlocked. Furthermore, when the replenishment package 210 is attached to the replenishment part 200, the first locking mechanism 250 releases the lock on the operating part 201, and the operating part 201 becomes rotatable. It should be noted that when the replenishment package 210 is not attached to the replenishment part 200, the operating part 201 and the equipment body gate part 206 are not interlocked.

[0136] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which supplementary package 210 is attached to supplementary portion 200. Figure 14 In the middle, the operating part 201 is in the operating position, and the equipment body gate part 206 and the enclosure gate part 214 are in the closed position. For example... Figure 14 As shown, device body contacts 170, serving as electrical contacts, are arranged in the toner receiving portion 202. When the refill pack 210 is attached to the rear of the refill portion 200, the memory tag 219 fixed to the top of the refill pack 210 makes electrical contact with the device body contacts 170. Therefore, the device body contacts 170 communicate with the memory tag 219, and authentication information can be read as predetermined information of the memory tag 219.

[0137] Then, as Figure 7C As shown, the user rotates the lever portion 201b of the operating section 201 90 degrees counterclockwise. Therefore, the operating section 201 rotates from the operating position to the replenishment position, and the package gate portion 214 and the equipment body gate portion 206 rotate from the closed position to the open position. As a result, the opening 214c of the package gate portion 214, the opening 213 of the insertion portion 212 of the replenishment package 210, the opening 207 of the equipment body gate portion 206, and the side opening 205 of the toner receiving portion 202 overlap. Therefore, the toner inside the replenishment package 210 is discharged to the storage portion 18 through the replenishment path portion 203.

[0138] In other words, when the operating part 201 is in the replenishing position, the replenishing part 200 enters a replenishable state, in which toner can be replenished from the replenishing pack 210 to the storage part 18. At this time, the opening 213 of the replenishing pack 210 and the side opening 205 of the toner receiving part 202 are connected.

[0139] When the toner has been replenished from the replenishment pack 210 to the storage section 18, the user returns the operating section 201 from the replenishment position to the operating position. That is, the user rotates the lever portion 201b of the operating section 201 90 degrees clockwise. As a result, the pack gate portion 214 and the equipment body gate portion 206 rotate from the open position to the closed position.

[0140] In other words, when the operating part 201 is in the operating position, the replenishing part 200 enters a non-replenishing state, in which toner cannot be replenished from the replenishing pack 210 to the storage part 18. At this time, the opening 213 of the replenishing pack 210 and the side opening 205 of the toner receiving part 202 are not in communication with each other.

[0141] Then, the user removes the refill pack 210 from the refill section 200. As described above, since the pack gate section 214 is in the closed position when the refill pack 210 is removed from the refill section 200, leakage of toner from the opening 213 of the refill pack 210 can be prevented.

[0142] Explanation of the second locking mechanism

[0143] The following will refer to Figures 15 to 25B The second locking mechanism 400 is introduced. In this embodiment, in addition to the first locking mechanism 250, the rotation of the operating part 201 is also controlled by the second locking mechanism 400. When the supplementary package 210 is not attached to the supplementary part 200, the first locking mechanism 250 controls the rotation of the operating part 201. Even when the supplementary package 210 is attached to the supplementary part 200, the second locking mechanism 400 controls the rotation of the operating part 201 under predetermined conditions.

[0144] like Figures 15 to 17B As shown, the second locking mechanism 400 is fixed to the side plate 500, which is a frame component of the imaging device 1. It should be noted that... Figures 15 to 17B The image shows only a portion of the side panel 500. The second locking mechanism 400 includes a retaining member 401 fixed to the side panel 500, a solenoid unit 402, a locking lever 403, a locking spring 404, and a display member 405 (see reference). Figure 18A ).

[0145] The retaining member 401 includes positioning portions 401a and 401b and a retaining portion 401c that retains the locking lever 403, and is positioned relative to the side plate 500 by inserting the positioning portions 401a and 401b into holes 500a and 500b in the side plate 500. The solenoid unit 402 includes a plunger 402a, a solenoid 402b that can be energized to pull the plunger 402a, and a solenoid frame 402c. The solenoid frame 402c retains the solenoid 402b, which serves as an actuator.

[0146] The retaining member 401 and the solenoid frame 402c are secured to the side plate 500 by screws 501 and 502 fastened together with fixing holes 500c and 500d relative to the side plate 500. The locking lever 403, serving as both a control member and a first control member, includes a locking portion 403a that locks onto a pin 402d of the plunger 402a and is rotatably held relative to the retaining portion 401c of the retaining member 401. More specifically, the retaining portion 401c includes a shaft support portion 401d that rotatably supports the shaft portion 403b of the locking lever 403, and the locking lever 403 is configured to pivot about the central shaft portion 403b, which is supported by the shaft support portion 401d.

[0147] The locking spring 404 is a coil spring held by the shaft portion 403b, with its first end and second end locked to the holding portion 401c of the holding member 401 and the locking lever 403, respectively. The locking lever 403 is pushed by the locking spring 404 in the direction of arrow LC1 and pivots in the direction of arrow LC2, opposite to the direction of arrow LC1, by the plunger 402a pulled by the solenoid 402b.

[0148] Furthermore, the abutment portion 401e (where the locking lever 403 abuts against the abutment portion 401e) is formed in the retaining portion 401c of the retaining member 401. When the solenoid 402b is not energized, the locking lever 403 abuts against the abutment portion 401e by the pushing force of the locking spring 404. Therefore, the locking lever 403 remains in the locked position shown in FIG. 17. By pulling the plunger 402a from the energized solenoid 402b, the locking lever 403 pivots in the direction of arrow LC2 and moves to... Figure 11B The unlock position is shown as E2.

[0149] Figure 17A and 18A This is a perspective view of the second locking mechanism 400 in the locked position with the locking lever 403 in the locked position. Figure 17B and 18B This is a perspective view of the second locking mechanism 400 with the locking lever 403 in the unlocked position E2. (See attached image.) Figures 17A to 18B As shown, the locking lever 403 includes a first engagement portion 403c and a second engagement portion 403d, the second engagement portion 403d being formed to protrude upward more than the first engagement portion 403c and to protrude outward more from the shaft portion 403b in the radial direction.

[0150] When the locking lever 403 is in the locked position E1, which serves as both the control position and the first control position, the first engagement portion 403c, which serves as the engagement portion, is located on the movement trajectory 420 toward the engaged portion 201k (reference). Figure 24B The protruding position. Furthermore, when the locking lever 403 is in the unlocked position E2, which serves as both the control release position and the first control release position, the engaging portion 403c is located on the movement trajectory 420 from the engaged portion 201k (reference). Figure 23B The first engaging portion 403c becomes capable of engaging with the engaged portion 201k of the operating portion 201 when the locking lever 403 is in the locked position E1. The rotation of the operating portion 201 is controlled by the engagement of the engaged portion 201k with the first engaging portion 403c. Then, because the engaged portion 201k does not engage with the first engaging portion 403c when the locking lever 403 is in the unlocked position E2, the rotation of the operating portion 201 is not controlled by the first engaging portion 403c.

[0151] Figure 19A This is a bottom view of component 405 when the locking lever 403 is in the locked position E1. Figure 19B yes Figure 19A Enlarged image. Figure 19C This is a bottom view of component 405 when the locking lever 403 is in the unlocked position E2. Figure 20A This is a perspective view taken from the top surface side, showing the display component 405 and the top surface portion 240 when the locking lever 403 is in the locked position E1. Figure 20B This is a perspective view taken from the top surface side, showing the display component 405 and the top surface portion 240 when the locking lever 403 is in the locked position E1.

[0152] like Figures 18A to 19B As shown, the display component 405 is rotatably supported relative to the top surface portion 240 about a pivot 405a, which is centered thereon. The display component 405 includes a display portion 405b formed in a generally fan-shaped manner and a boss portion 405c protruding downward from the display portion 405b. The display component 405 is pushed by a coil spring 406 in the direction of arrow LC3, and the coil spring 406 is held by the pivot 405a. The first end and the second end of the coil spring 406 are locked onto the top surface portion 240 and the display component 405, respectively.

[0153] When the locking lever 403 is positioned in the locked position E1, the boss portion 405c of the display component 405, pushed by the coil spring 406 in the direction of arrow LC3, abuts against the abutment surface 240c disposed on the bottom surface side of the top surface portion 240. Therefore, the display component 405 is positioned in the locked display position G1, which serves as the first position. Figure 20A and 20B As shown, a perforated window portion 240b is formed in the top surface portion 240 that serves as a cover, and a first display 405d and a second display 405e are arranged on the upper surface of the display portion 405b of the display component 405.

[0154] The first display 405d and the second display 405e are arranged at different positions along the pivoting directions (LC3 and LC4 directions) of the display component 405. In this embodiment, the first display 405d is marked with "Lock," indicating that the motion control of the operation part 201 is applied when the locking lever 403 is in the locked position E1. The second display 405e is marked with "Unlock," indicating that the motion control of the operation part 201 is not applied when the locking lever 403 is in the unlocked position E2.

[0155] like Figure 20A As shown, when the display component 405 is in the locked display position G1, the first display 405d can be visually confirmed from the upper surface side of the imaging device 1 through the window portion 240b. It should be noted that although in this embodiment the display component 405 is positioned in the locked display position G1 by the boss portion 405c of the display component 405 abutting against the abutment surface 240c of the top surface portion 240, this is not a limitation. For example, the display component 405 can be positioned in the locked display position G1 by abutting against the top surface portion 240 by a portion of the display component 405 different from the boss portion 405c. Furthermore, the display component 405 can be positioned in the locked display position G1 by any portion of the display component 405 abutting against the side plate 500.

[0156] like Figure 18B , 19B As shown in Figure 20B, when the solenoid 402b is energized and the locking lever 403 moves from the locked position E1 to the unlocked position E2, the boss portion 405c is pressed by the second engaging portion 403d of the locking lever 403. Therefore, while resisting the pushing force of the coil spring 406, the display component 405 pivots in the direction of arrow LC4, opposite to the direction of arrow LC3. Then, by holding the boss portion 405c by the second engaging portion 403d of the locking lever 403 located in the unlocked position E2, the display component 405 remains in the unlocked display position G2, which serves as... Figure 18B , Figure 19B and Figure 20B The second position is shown. At this time, because the boss portion 405c is in pressure contact with the second engagement portion 403d by the pushing force of the coil spring 406, the display component 405 will not move from the unlocked display position G2.

[0157] like Figure 20B As shown, when the display component 405 is in the unlocked display position G2, the second display 405e can be visually confirmed from the upper surface side of the imaging device 1 through the window portion 240b. When the solenoid 402b changes from an energized state to a de-energized state, the locking lever 403 moves from the unlocked position E2 to the locked position E1 by the pushing force of the locking spring 404. Therefore, the second engaging portion 403d of the locking lever 403 disengages from the engagement of the boss portion 405c of the display component 405, and the display component 405 moves from the unlocked display position G2 to the locked display position G1 by the pushing force of the coil spring 406.

[0158] In other words, the display component 405 is configured to move together with the operation of the solenoid 402b, so that when the locking lever 403 is in the locked position E1, the display component 405 is in the locked display position G1, and when the locking lever 403 is in the unlocked position E2, the display component 405 is in the unlocked display position G2.

[0159] control block

[0160] Figure 21 This is a block diagram illustrating the function of the circuit board 100 in this embodiment. The circuit board 100 includes a low-voltage power supply section 110 and a high-voltage power supply section 120. The low-voltage power supply section 110 obtains power from an external power source through a power input section (not shown) attached to an end portion of the board, and converts the AC voltage into a stable DC voltage through a rectifier / smoothing circuit including an electrolytic capacitor. Then, after the DC voltage is converted into a high-frequency AC voltage by a switching element (e.g., a transistor), the low-voltage power supply section 110 inputs the high-frequency AC voltage to a low-voltage power transformer. The low-voltage power transformer converts the high-frequency AC voltage, which is the input voltage, into an AC voltage (output voltage) with the desired voltage value. The low-voltage power supply section 110 again converts the AC voltage into a DC voltage and outputs the obtained DC voltage to the high-voltage power supply section 120. Moreover, since the losses in each circuit component manifest as heat, a heat sink (not shown) made of aluminum and iron is arranged in the low-voltage power supply section 110 for heat dissipation.

[0161] The high-voltage power supply section 120 converts the voltage (e.g., 24 volts (V)) supplied from the low-voltage power supply section 110 into the high voltage required for imaging processes (e.g., charging, developing, and transferring). The voltage supplied from the low-voltage power supply section 110 is converted into a charging voltage by a charging transformer and supplied to the charging roller 17. The voltage supplied from the low-voltage power supply section 110 is converted into a developing voltage by a developing transformer 123 and supplied to the developing roller 12. The voltage supplied from the low-voltage power supply section 110 is converted into a transfer voltage by a transfer transformer 124 and supplied to the transfer roller 7.

[0162] The low-voltage power supply section 110 supplies voltage not only to the high-voltage power supply section 120, but also to the scanner unit 50, drive motor 311, engine controller 130, and video controller 140 (e.g., 3.3V or 5V). Here, the engine controller 130, serving as a control unit, coordinates and controls various processing components and controls the solenoid 402b. The engine controller 130 includes: a central processing unit (CPU) (not shown); random access memory (RAM, not shown) for calculating and temporarily storing data required for controlling the imaging device 1; and a ROM (not shown) storing programs and various data for controlling the imaging device 1. The video controller 140 receives print data through communication with an external device (e.g., a personal computer) and informs the engine controller 130 of the results obtained by analyzing the print data. It should be noted that the engine controller 130 and the video controller 140 can be arranged on a different board from or on the same board as the circuit board 110.

[0163] Furthermore, the AC power received from the commercial power supply at the power input section not only supplies the low-voltage power supply section 110 but also the fixing heater 9c. It should be noted that the driving of, for example, the rollers in the fixing unit 9 is performed by the drive motor 311.

[0164] Solenoid energized

[0165] The following will use Figure 22 The flowchart below illustrates the energization determination process of solenoid 402b. In other words, along with... Figure 22 The flowchart determines the energizing conditions of solenoid 402b, and energizes it when the energizing conditions used as predetermined conditions are met.

[0166] like Figure 22 As shown, during the power-on determination process of the solenoid 402b, the engine controller 130 determines whether the power supply to the imaging device 1 is on (step S1). If the power supply to the imaging device 1 is on (step S1: Yes), the engine controller 130 determines whether the on / off detection sensor 80 is on (step S2). Figures 3A to 3CAs shown, when the on / off detection sensor 80 is turned on, it means that the back cover 73 is in the closed position.

[0167] If the on / off detection sensor 80 is activated (step S2: Yes), the engine controller 130 determines whether communication with the memory tag 219 is successful (step S3). Communication with the memory tag 219 means that the supplement package 210 has been attached to the supplement section 200, and the authentication information of the memory tag 219 arranged in the supplement package 210 has been read by the device body contact 170.

[0168] If communication with the memory tag 219 is successful (step S3: Yes), the engine controller 130 determines whether the remaining toner level inside the storage section 18, as detected by the remaining amount detection sensor 312, is not full, i.e., not completely full (step S4). If the remaining toner level inside the storage section 18 is less than a predetermined amount, it is determined that the remaining toner level is not full. More specifically, if the signal strength (voltage) sent by the remaining amount detection sensor 312 is within a predetermined range, it is determined that the remaining toner level is not full. If it is determined that the remaining toner level is not full (step S4: Yes), the engine controller 130 energizes the solenoid 402 and puts the second locking mechanism 400 into the unlocked state, in which the locking lever 403 is located in the unlocked position E2.

[0169] In other words, the aforementioned predetermined conditions include the imaging device 1 being powered on, the on / off detection sensor 80 being activated, successful communication with the storage tag 219, and the toner remaining amount not being full. Then, when the predetermined conditions are met, the engine controller 130 controls the solenoid 402b to release the motion control of the operating part 201.

[0170] At this time, such as Figure 23A As shown, when the imaging device 1 with the sheet discharge tray 14 open is viewed from the top surface side, the second display 405e of the visual confirmation display unit 405 can be seen through the window portion 240b. Therefore, the user can easily visually confirm that the toner can be replenished to the replenishment portion 200 via the replenishment pack 210, thereby improving usability. Moreover, when the imaging device 1 with the sheet discharge tray 14 open is viewed from the top surface side, the engaged portion 201k of the operation portion 201 and the locking lever 403 cannot be visually confirmed. Therefore, accidental contact of the locking lever 403 by the user can be prevented.

[0171] like Figure 23BAs shown, because the first engaging portion 403c of the locking lever 403 in the unlocked position E2 retracts from the movement trajectory 420 of the engaged portion 201k of the operating portion 201, the operating portion 201 is not rotated under the control of the locking lever 403. Furthermore, the second engaging portion 403d of the locking lever 403 in the unlocked position E2 retains the boss portion 405c of the display component 405 in the unlocked display position G2.

[0172] On the other hand, if it is determined that the power supply to the imaging device 1 is not connected (step S1: No), or if it is determined that the on / off detection sensor 80 is disconnected (step S2: No), the engine controller 130 does not energize the solenoid 402b. This is because, since power cannot be supplied to the stirring component 60 and the on / off detection sensor 80 when the power supply to the imaging device 1 is off, the remaining amount of toner inside the storage section 18 cannot be detected.

[0173] Furthermore, if communication with the memory tag 219 fails (step S3: No), or if it is determined that the toner level is full (step S4: No), the engine controller 130 will not energize the solenoid 402b. If communication with the memory tag 219 fails, there is a possibility that the refill pack 210 may not be securely attached to the refill section 200. If the toner level is full, the toner inside the refill pack 210 cannot be smoothly discharged into the storage section 18. In the non-energized state where the solenoid 402b is not energized, the second locking mechanism 400 becomes locked, with the locking lever 403 in the locked position E1.

[0174] At this time, when the imaging device 1 with the sheet discharge tray 14 open is observed from the top surface side, the first display 405d of the visual confirmation display unit 405 can be visually confirmed through the window portion 240b. Therefore, the user can easily visually confirm that toner cannot be replenished to the replenishment portion 200 via the replenishment pack 210, which improves usability.

[0175] Moreover, such as Figure 6D As shown, even with the supplementary package 210 attached to the supplementary section 200, the user can visually confirm the first display 405d through the window section 240b. Therefore, even after the supplementary package 210 is attached to the supplementary section 200, the user can recognize that the second locking mechanism is locked, improving usability. It should be noted that similarly, when the second display 405e is displayed through the window section 240b with the supplementary package 210 already attached to the supplementary section 200, the second display 405e can be visually confirmed.

[0176] like Figure 24BAs shown, the first engaging portion 403c of the locking lever 403, located in the locked position E1, protrudes along the movement trajectory 420 of the engaged portion 201k of the operating portion 201. At this time, the first engaging portion 403c of the locking lever 403 separates from the engaged portion 201k of the operating portion 201 by leaving a predetermined gap GP along the circumferential direction of the operating portion 201. By arranging the gap GP between the first engaging portion 403c and the engaged portion 201k as described above, no frictional force is generated between the first engaging portion 403c and the engaged portion 201k when the solenoid 402b is energized, thereby reducing the output and size of the solenoid 402b.

[0177] Here, with the replenishment package 210 not attached to the replenishment portion 200, the operating portion 201 is positioned in the operating position by the first locking mechanism 250. More specifically, the operating portion 201 is positioned in the operating position by inserting the lever locking press portion 227a of the lever locking member 227 into the opening portion 201e of the operating portion 201. Therefore, with the replenishment package 210 not attached to the replenishment portion 200, the operating portion 201 is always in the operating position, and the gap GP is fixed between the first engaging portion 403c and the engaged portion 201k.

[0178] In other words, when the locking lever 403 is in the locked position E1 and the lever locking member 227 is in the controlled position F1, the lever locking member 227 controls the movement of the operating part 201, thereby preventing the operating part 201 from contacting the first engaging portion 403c of the locking lever 403. Therefore, by energizing the solenoid 402b, the locking lever 403 of the second locking mechanism 400 can easily move from the locked position E1 to the unlocked position E2.

[0179] When the lever portion 201b of the operating part 201 pivots toward the supplementary position while the second locking mechanism 400 is in the locked state, as Figure 25B As shown, the engaged portion 201k of the operating portion 201 only moves within the range of the gap GP and abuts against the second engaged portion 403d. Therefore, the rotation of the operating portion 201 is controlled. It should be noted that because the locking lever 403 does not leave the locked position E1 at this time, the display component 405, which moves simultaneously with the locking lever 403, also remains in the locked display position G1. Therefore, as... Figure 25A As shown, the first display 405, which is visually confirmed through window portion 240b, also does not move.

[0180] As described above, in this embodiment, the movement of the operation section 201 can be controlled by a second locking mechanism 400 that switches between a locked state and an unlocked state due to the solenoid 402b. Since it is not desirable to perform toner replenishment when the predetermined conditions described above are not met, the replenishment of toner to the imaging device 1 can be easily controlled by controlling the operation (rotation) of the operation section 201.

[0181] Second Embodiment

[0182] Although a second embodiment of the invention will be described below, only the first and second displays 405d and 405e of the display component 405 in the first embodiment are different in the second embodiment. Therefore, a construction similar to the first embodiment will be described by omitting the illustrations or by arranging the same reference numerals in the drawings.

[0183] The display component 605 in this embodiment includes a display portion 605b, and a first display 605d and a second display 605e are arranged on the upper surface of the display portion 605b. The first display 605d and the second display 605e are colored with different colors from each other, and... Figure 26 Different shading patterns are used to represent them.

[0184] When the display unit 605 is in the locked display position G1, the first display 605d can be visually confirmed from the upper surface side of the imaging device 1 via the window portion 240b (see reference). Figure 20A When the display unit 605 is in the unlocked display position G2, the second display 605e can be visually confirmed from the upper surface side of the imaging device 1 via the window portion 240b (see reference). Figure 20A The first display 605d is marked with a warm color (e.g., red). The second display 605e is marked with a cool color (e.g., blue).

[0185] As described above, in this embodiment, the first display 605d or the second display 605e of the display component 605 indicates whether the second locking mechanism 400 is in a locked or unlocked state. The first display 605d and the second display 605e are colored in warm and cool colors, respectively. Warm colors, such as red, generally indicate that operation is prohibited, while cool colors, such as blue, generally indicate that operation is permitted. Therefore, the user can sense the availability of operation of the operating part 201 and the color supplement of the supplementary part 200. It should be noted that warm colors include, for example, red, orange, and yellow, and cool colors include, for example, turquoise, blue, and blue-violet. The first display 605d is preferably colored in red, and the second display 605e is preferably colored in blue.

[0186] Other embodiments

[0187] It should be noted that although the attraction-type solenoid 402b is used as an actuator for driving the second locking mechanism 400 in any of the above embodiments, it is not limited to this. For example, instead of solenoid 402b, it is acceptable to use a push solenoid and a self-holding solenoid. Moreover, instead of solenoid 402b, it is acceptable to use, for example, a motor and a linear actuator. Furthermore, the interlocking mechanism of the solenoid unit 402, the locking lever 403, and the display component 405 or 605 is not limited to the above embodiments. For example, it is acceptable to move the display component 405 or 605 by pressing with a plunger 402a instead of by using the second engagement portion 403d of the locking lever 403.

[0188] Furthermore, although each of the first displays 405d and 605d and the second displays 405e and 605e is constituted by a symbol provided with letters or colors in any of the above embodiments, it is not limited thereto. For example, it is acceptable for the first display to include a graphic symbol of a secure key and the second display to include a graphic symbol of an insecure key. Additionally, it is acceptable to distinguish the first display and the second display by using letters, colors, graphic symbols, embossed patterns, and materials to display the locked and unlocked states of the second locking mechanism 400.

[0189] Furthermore, in any of the above embodiments, the solenoid 402b is energized when the imaging device 1 is powered on, the on / off detection sensor 80 is activated, communication with the storage tag 219 is successful, and the toner level is not full. However, the energizing conditions of the solenoid 402b are not limited to these. For example, when the following conditions are met... Figure 22 Under one to three of the conditions shown in steps S1 to S4, it is acceptable to energize solenoid 402b.

[0190] The present invention can also be implemented by a process in which a program performing one or more functions of the above embodiments is supplied to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and the program is read and executed by one or more processors in the computer of the system or device. Furthermore, it can also be implemented by a circuit (e.g., an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)) performing one or more functions.

[0191] Industrial applicability

[0192] This invention can be used in imaging devices, such as printers, copiers, fax machines, and multifunction machines that include these functions. In particular, this invention is applicable to imaging devices that can replenish toner from a receiving port.

[0193] This invention is not limited to the above-described exemplary embodiments, and various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the following claims are appended to disclose the scope of the invention.

[0194] Reference number list

[0195] 1 Imaging equipment

[0196] 5c Conveying Unit (Conveying Roller Pair)

[0197] 18. Toner Storage Section (Storage Section)

[0198] 19. Teleportation Path

[0199] 73. Open / Close Component (Back Cover)

[0200] 80. Turn the detection sensor on / off

[0201] 130 Control Unit (Engine Controller)

[0202] 170 Electrical contacts (equipment body contacts)

[0203] 200 Attachment Section, Receiving Section (Supplementary Section)

[0204] 201 Operating Components (Operating Section)

[0205] 204 Receive Port (Supplementary Port)

[0206] 206 Equipment Body Gate (Equipment Body Gate Section)

[0207] 210 Toner Container (Refill Pack)

[0208] 211 bags (pouch portion)

[0209] 212 Nozzle section (insertion part)

[0210] 213 Opening portion (opening)

[0211] 214 Container gate (gate enclosure)

[0212] 219 Memory (Memory Tag)

[0213] 227 Second control component (lever locking component)

[0214] 240 Lid (top surface portion)

[0215] 240b Window Section

[0216] 312 Sensor (Remaining Amount Detection Sensor)

[0217] 402b Actuator (Solenoid)

[0218] 403 Control Components, First Control Component (Locking Rod)

[0219] 403c Joint (First Joint)

[0220] 405 Display Components

[0221] 405d, 605d First Display

[0222] 405e, 605e Second Monitor

[0223] 420 Movement Trajectory

[0224] E1 Control Position, First Control Position (Locked Position)

[0225] E2 control release position, first control release position (unlock position)

[0226] F1 Second Control Position (Control Position)

[0227] F2 Second Control Release Position (Control Release Position)

[0228] G1 First Position (Locked Display Position)

[0229] G2 Second Position (Unlock Display Position)

[0230] H1 Closed Position

[0231] H2 Open Location

[0232] N1 Imaging Section (Transfer Clamping Section)

Claims

1. An imaging apparatus, wherein a toner container is detachably attached to the imaging apparatus, the toner container including an opening and a gate configured to open and close the opening, toner being supplied to the imaging apparatus through the opening, the imaging apparatus comprising: The attachment portion, wherein the toner container is attached to the attachment portion, the attachment portion comprising: A receiving port, configured to receive toner supplied from the toner container; and An operating component, comprising an operating portion, the operating portion being operable from outside the imaging device and configured to directly receive an operating force from a user, the operating component being configured to move together with the container gate by receiving the operating force, such that the container gate opens and closes the opening portion while the toner container is attached to the attachment portion; A toner storage section is configured to store toner received from the receiving port; An actuator, the actuator being configured to be actuated to control the movement of the operating component; and The control unit is configured to control the actuator. Wherein, under predetermined conditions, the control unit controls the actuator in order to release the control over the movement of the operating component.

2. The imaging device of claim 1, further comprising: A control component includes an engagement portion configured to engage with an operating component. The control component is configured to move between a control position and a control release position. The control position is a position where the engagement portion protrudes into the movement trajectory of the operating component, and the control release position is a position where the engagement portion retracts from the movement trajectory of the operating component. The actuator is configured to cause the control component to move between the control position and the control release position. The control unit controls the actuator, so that, under the condition that the predetermined condition is met, the control component moves from the control position to the control release position.

3. The imaging device according to claim 2, wherein: When the control component, the control position, and the control release position are respectively referred to as the first control component, the first control position, and the first control release position, respectively. The imaging device further includes a second control component, which is configured to move between a second control position and a second control release position. The second control position is the position where the second control component controls the movement of the operating component, and the second control release position is the position where the second control component releases control over the movement of the operating component. The second control component is in a second control position when the toner container is not attached to the attachment portion, and in a second control release position when the toner container is attached to the attachment portion. When the first control component is in the first control position and the second control component is in the second control position, the second control component controls the movement of the operating component, so that the operating component does not come into contact with the engagement portion of the first control component.

4. The imaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: The display component includes a first display and a second display, which are arranged in different positions relative to each other. as well as The cover has a window portion through which either the first display or the second display can be seen. The display component is configured to move relative to the cover between a first position and a second position. In the first position, a first display is observed through the window portion; in the second position, a second display is observed through the window portion. The display component is configured to move in conjunction with the operation of the actuator, such that when the movement of the operating component is controlled, the display component is in a first position, and when the control over the movement of the operating component is released, the display component is in a second position.

5. The imaging device according to claim 2 or 3, further comprising: The display component includes a first display and a second display, which are arranged in different positions relative to each other. as well as The cover has a window portion through which either the first display or the second display can be seen. The display component is configured to move relative to the cover between a first position and a second position. In the first position, a first display is observed through the window portion; in the second position, a second display is observed through the window portion. The display component is configured to move in conjunction with the operation of the actuator, such that when the control component is in the control position, the display component is in a first position, and when the control component is in the control release position, the display component is in a second position.

6. The imaging device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein: The first display includes letters indicating the movement of the control components. The second display includes letters indicating the control of the movement of the operating component.

7. The imaging device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein: The first display includes a logo colored in warm colors, and The second display includes a logo colored in cool colors.

8. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The predetermined condition includes: the remaining amount of toner stored in the toner storage section is less than a predetermined amount.

9. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising: A sensor configured to output a signal having an intensity corresponding to the remaining amount of toner stored in the toner storage section. The predetermined condition includes: the signal strength is within a predetermined range.

10. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: The toner container includes a memory for storing information. The attachment portion includes electrical contacts that make electrical contact with the memory to communicate with the memory when the toner container is attached. The predetermined conditions include: being able to read predetermined information from the memory.

11. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising: An imaging unit configured to form an image on a recording material; A transmission unit configured to transmit recording material toward the imaging unit; The transmission path through which the recording material transmitted by the transmission unit passes; An opening / closing component is configured to move between a closed position and an open position, wherein in the closed position the opening / closing component covers the conveying path, and in the open position the opening / closing component exposes the conveying path to the outside; as well as An on / off detection sensor is configured to detect the opening / closing of the on / off component. The predetermined condition includes: the open / close detection sensor detects that the open / close component is in the closed position.

12. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: Toner containers include: A bag, the bag being configured to store toner; and The nozzle portion is configured to communicate with the interior of the bag, and the nozzle portion includes the opening portion.

13. An imaging device, comprising: The receiving section includes: A receiving port configured to receive toner supplied from outside the imaging device; The device body gate, configured to open and close the receiving port; and An operating component, wherein the operating component is configured to be separate from the device body gate and to be operated from outside the imaging device, the operating component is configured to move together with the device body gate to open and close the receiving port of the device body gate; A toner storage section is configured to store toner received from the receiving port; An actuator, the actuator being configured to be actuated to control the movement of the operating component; and The control unit is configured to control the actuator. Under predetermined conditions, the control unit controls the actuator to release the control over the movement of the operating component.

Images