Cartridge and imaging device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cartridge and an image forming apparatus. The cartridge includes a first unit including an image bearing member and a first portion and configured to assume a removal posture when the cartridge is to be removed from the main body, a second unit including a developer bearing member and a second portion, the second unit being movable between a first position in which the developer bearing member is in contact with the image bearing member and a second position in which the developer bearing member is separated from the image bearing member and the second portion is in contact with the first portion, wherein the second unit is located at the second position when the first unit assumes the removal posture, and movement of the second unit in a direction in which the developer bearing member is separated from the image bearing member is restricted when the second unit is located at the second position.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application entitled "Box and Imaging Device", with a national application date of September 16, 2020 and national application number 202010974264.2. Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to boxes and imaging devices. Background Technology

[0003] When an image is formed on a recording medium in an imaging device (e.g., a printer) using an electrophotographic imaging system (electrophotographic processing), the photosensitive drum is first uniformly charged by a charging roller. Then, the charged photosensitive drum is selectively exposed by an exposure device, thereby forming an electrostatic latent image on the drum. The electrostatic latent image formed on the drum is developed into a toner image by a developing device using the developer. The toner image formed on the drum is transferred to a recording medium such as recording paper or plastic sheet. Then, the toner image transferred to the recording medium is fixed by pressure and heat applied by a fixing unit. Thus, an image is formed on the recording medium. Residual toner remaining on the drum after the toner image is transferred to the recording medium is removed by a cleaning blade.

[0004] Such imaging devices typically require maintenance of processing components such as photosensitive drums, charging rollers, and developing equipment. To facilitate maintenance of these processing components, in recent years, photosensitive drums, charging rollers, cleaning blades, and developing equipment have been integrated into a single unit. This unit, containing such processing components, is commonly referred to as a processing cartridge. The processing cartridge can be detachably mounted to the main body of the imaging device. By making the processing cartridge replaceable, the processing components can be replaced and their maintenance can be performed.

[0005] As a developing device used in this type of processing cartridge, contact developing can be performed, in which developing rollers are in contact with the photosensitive drum. In this contact developing, the developing roller is pressed against the photosensitive drum by a pressing device provided in the processing cartridge, so as to maintain a predetermined contact pressure between the developing roller and the photosensitive drum during imaging. In this arrangement, if the developing roller is in contact with the photosensitive drum and is not used for a long time, the elastic layer of the developing roller may undergo permanent deformation. This may result in uneven image density in the image caused by the developing roller circulating during developing.

[0006] As a solution to this problem, a processing box has been proposed that has a mechanism for separating the photosensitive drum and the developing roller from each other when imaging is not being performed (Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2001-337511). A processing box has also been proposed that has a mechanism for bringing the separated developing roller into contact by mounting the processing box onto the main body of the imaging apparatus (Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2006-276190). Summary of the Invention

[0007] This invention represents a further development of the aforementioned conventional technology. One object of this invention is to provide a cartridge in which the image carrier component and the developer carrier component can be easily separated.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the housing according to the invention is configured to be detachably mounted to the body of the imaging device, the housing comprising:

[0009] The first unit includes an image-carrying member and a first part, and is configured to take a removal posture when the box is to be removed from the body;

[0010] The second unit includes a developer carrier member and a second portion, and is rotatably connected to the first unit. The second unit is configured to be movable relative to the first unit by rotation about a rotation axis between (i) a first position in which the developer carrier member contacts the image carrier member and (ii) a second position in which the developer carrier member is separated from the image carrier member and the second portion contacts the first portion.

[0011] When the box is removed from the main body and the first unit is in a removal posture, the second unit is located in a second position due to its own weight.

[0012] With the second unit in the second position, the movement of the second unit in the direction along which the developer carrier separates from the image carrier is restricted by the second part that is in contact with the first part, and

[0013] The distance between the axis of rotation and the second part in a direction orthogonal to the axis of rotation is shorter than the distance between the rotation center of the developer carrier and the axis of rotation.

[0014] Other features of the invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments (with reference to the accompanying drawings). Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1A and 1B This is a side view of a processing box according to one embodiment;

[0016] Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of an electrophotographic imaging apparatus according to this embodiment;

[0017] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the processing box according to this embodiment;

[0018] Figure 4A and 4B This is a panoramic perspective view of the back and rear sides of the processing box according to this embodiment;

[0019] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection status of the developing unit and the drum unit;

[0020] Figure 6A and 6B It is a cross-sectional view showing the separation and contact states of the developing roller and the photosensitive drum;

[0021] Figure 7 This is a side view of the processing box in a separated state; and

[0022] Figure 8 It is a diagram used to describe the bearing restraints and the placement of the restraints. Detailed Implementation

[0023] Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative positions of the components described in the embodiments may be appropriately varied depending on the construction of the device to which the invention is applied and various conditions, and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention to the following embodiments.

[0024] First Embodiment

[0025] Overall structure of imaging device 100

[0026] Reference Figure 2 The overall structure of the electrophotographic imaging apparatus 100 (hereinafter referred to as "imaging apparatus 100") according to this embodiment is described. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the imaging apparatus 100 according to this embodiment. In this embodiment, the processing cartridge 1 and the toner cartridge 13 can be detachably mounted to the apparatus body (body) 100a of the imaging apparatus 100 that performs imaging. The imaging apparatus 100 has a first imaging unit SY, a second imaging unit SM, a third imaging unit SC, and a fourth imaging unit SK as multiple imaging units, which respectively form yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) images. In this embodiment, except for the different colors of the formed images, the construction and operation of the first imaging unit SY to the fourth imaging unit SK are basically the same. Therefore, in the following description, unless a special distinction is required, the suffixes Y to K will be omitted and described together.

[0027] The first to fourth processing cartridges 1 are arranged horizontally. Each processing cartridge 1 is provided with a drum unit 4 as a first unit and a developing unit (developer container) 6 as a second unit. The drum unit 4 has a photosensitive drum 7 as an image carrier member that carries the developer image, a charging roller 8 as a charging device for uniformly charging the surface of the photosensitive drum 7, and a cleaning blade 10 as a cleaning device. Each processing cartridge 1 can be removed from the device body 100a along the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 7. The drum unit 4 is configured to take a removal posture when the processing cartridge 1 is being removed from the device body 100a. The developing unit 6 houses the developing roller 11 and the developer T (hereinafter referred to as "toner"), and has a developing device for developing the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 7. The drum unit 4 and the developing unit 6 are pivotally supported relative to each other. Note that the first processing cartridge 1Y contains yellow (Y) toner in the developing unit 6. In the same manner, the second processing box 1M contains magenta (M) toner, the third processing box 1C contains cyan (C) toner, and the fourth processing box 1K contains black (K) toner.

[0028] The processing cartridge 1 can be detachably mounted to the device body 100a along the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 7 via mounting devices such as mounting guides (not shown) and positioning members (not shown) provided on the imaging apparatus 100. The processing cartridge 1 can be detachably mounted to the device body 100a while the drum unit 4 and the developing unit 6 are connected. That is, the drum unit 4 and the developing unit 6 can be detached from the device body 100a as a whole and installed as a whole on the device body 100a. In addition, the scanner unit 12 for forming an electrostatic latent image is located below the processing cartridge 1. Furthermore, the waste toner delivery unit 23 is located on the rear side of the processing cartridge 1 of the imaging apparatus 100 (downstream side in the mounting / removal direction of the processing cartridge 1).

[0029] The first to fourth toner cartridges 13 are arranged horizontally below each processing box 1 in order corresponding to the color of the toner contained in each processing box 1. That is, toner cartridge 13Y contains yellow (Y) toner. In the same manner, the second toner cartridge 13M contains magenta (M) toner, the third toner cartridge 13C contains cyan (C) toner, and the fourth toner cartridge 13K contains black (K) toner. Each toner cartridge 13 supplies toner to the processing box 1 containing the same color of toner.

[0030] When the remaining amount of toner in the processing cartridge 1 is insufficient, a toner cartridge 13 is supplied by a remaining amount detection unit (not shown) provided on the main body 100a of the device. The toner cartridge 13 can be detachably mounted to the imaging device 100 by means of mounting devices such as mounting guides (not shown) and positioning members (not shown) provided on the imaging device 100. Note that the processing cartridge 1 will be described in detail later.

[0031] The first to fourth toner delivery devices 14 are arranged below each toner cartridge 13, corresponding to the toner cartridge 13. The toner delivery devices 14 convey the toner received from the toner cartridge 13 vertically upward and supply the toner to the developing unit 6. Thus, toner is supplied from the toner cartridge 13, which serves as the supply container, to the developing unit 6.

[0032] An intermediate transfer unit 19, serving as an intermediate transfer component, is disposed above the processing box 1 in a vertical direction. The intermediate transfer unit 19 is arranged approximately horizontally, with the primary transfer portion S1 side facing downwards in the vertical direction. The intermediate transfer belt 18 facing each photosensitive drum 7 is a rotatable annular belt and is tensioned around multiple tension rollers. On the inner surface of the intermediate transfer belt 18, at a position where it forms the primary transfer portion S1 with the photosensitive drum 7 across the intermediate transfer belt 18, a primary transfer roller 20, serving as a primary transfer component, is disposed. A secondary transfer roller 21, serving as a secondary transfer component, also contacts the intermediate transfer belt 18 and, together with the roller on the opposite side of the intermediate transfer belt 18, forms the secondary transfer portion S2. An intermediate transfer belt cleaning unit 22 is also disposed in the transverse direction (the direction along which the intermediate transfer belt 18 is tensioned) on the side opposite to the secondary transfer portion S2.

[0033] The fixing unit 25 is arranged vertically above the intermediate transfer unit 19. The fixing unit 25 has a heating unit 26 and a pressure application roller 27 that applies pressure to the heating unit 26. A discharge tray 32 is provided on the upper surface of the device body 100a, and a waste toner recovery container 24 is provided between the discharge tray 32 and the intermediate transfer unit. In addition, a sheet feed tray 2 for holding the recording medium 3 is provided at the bottom of the device body 100a.

[0034] Imaging process

[0035] Next, we will refer to Figure 2 and 3 The imaging operation performed by the imaging device 100 is described. Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the processing box according to this embodiment. During imaging, it moves along a predetermined speed... Figure 3The photosensitive drum 7 is driven to rotate in the direction of arrow A. The intermediate transfer belt 18 is driven to rotate in the direction of arrow B (relative to the forward direction of rotation of the photosensitive drum 7).

[0036] First, the surface of the photosensitive drum 7 is uniformly charged by the charging roller 8. Next, the surface of the photosensitive drum 7 is scanned and exposed by a laser beam emitted by the scanner unit 12, thereby forming an electrostatic latent image based on image information (image data) on the photosensitive drum 7. The electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 7 is developed into a toner image (developer image) by the developing unit 6. At this time, pressure is applied to the developing unit 6 by a developing pressure application unit (not shown) provided on the device body 100a. Then, a primary transfer roller 20 is used to transfer the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 7 to the intermediate transfer belt 18 in one pass.

[0037] For example, during panchromatic imaging, the above-described processing is performed sequentially at the first imaging unit SY to the fourth imaging unit SK, thereby sequentially superimposing toner images of various colors onto the intermediate transfer belt 18. Simultaneously, the recording medium 3, contained in the sheet feed tray 2, is fed at a predetermined control timing and transported to the secondary transfer section S2 in sync with the movement of the intermediate transfer belt 18. Then, a secondary transfer is performed by the secondary transfer roller 21, which contacts the intermediate transfer belt 18 across the recording medium 3, to transfer the four-tone toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 18 as a whole onto the recording medium 3.

[0038] Subsequently, the recording medium 3, with the toner image already transferred, is conveyed to the fixing unit 25. At the fixing unit 25, the toner image is fixed onto the recording medium 3 by heat and pressure. Then, the recording medium 3 with the fixed toner image is conveyed to the discharge tray 32, thus completing the imaging operation.

[0039] Furthermore, residual toner (waste toner) remaining on the photosensitive drum 7 after the first transfer process is removed by the cleaning blade 10. Residual toner (waste toner) remaining on the intermediate transfer belt 18 after the second transfer process is removed by the intermediate transfer belt cleaning unit 22. The waste toner removed by the cleaning blade 10 and the intermediate transfer belt cleaning unit 22 is transported by the waste toner conveying unit 23 provided on the device body 100a and accumulates in the waste toner recovery container 24. Note that the imaging device 100 can also form monochrome or multicolor images using only one or more (but not all) desired imaging units.

[0040] Processing box

[0041] Next, we will refer to Figure 3 , 4ASections 4B and 4B describe the overall structure of the processing box 1 mounted on the imaging device 100 according to this embodiment. Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the processing box 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 4A This is a perspective view of the processing box 1 as seen from the back side (the downstream side in the installation / removal direction of the processing box 1). Figure 4B This is a perspective view of the processing box 1 when viewed from the rear.

[0042] The processing cartridge 1 has a drum unit 4 and a developing unit 6. The processing cartridge 1 has a drum unit (photosensitive unit) 4 and a developing unit 6. That is, the processing cartridge 1 has a photosensitive drum 7 and a developing roller 11. The drum unit 4 and the developing unit 6 are pivotally (movably) connected with a rotating support pin 30 as the center. Therefore, the developing unit 6 is connected to the drum unit 4 in a manner that allows it to rotate about the rotation axis of the developing unit 6. The developing unit 6 is inseparably connected to the drum unit 4. When the processing cartridge 1 is removed from the device body 100a, the developing unit 6 is restricted from moving relative to the drum unit 4 in the direction of its rotation axis. Furthermore, the developing unit 6 is allowed to rotate relative to the drum unit 4 about its rotation axis, but its movement is restricted to be parallel to the direction intersecting the rotation axis of the developing unit 6. The drum unit 4 has a drum frame 5 that supports various components within the drum unit 4. The drum unit 4 has a photosensitive drum 7, a charging roller 8, a cleaning blade 10, and a waste toner screw 15 extending in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum. The drum bearings 33 support the photosensitive drum 7 in a manner that allows the photosensitive drum 7 to rotate. The drum bearings 33 are located at both ends in the longitudinal direction of the drum unit 4. The drum bearings 33 have a gear system for transmitting driving force from the photosensitive drum 7 to the waste toner screw 15. In other words, a pair of drum bearings 33 are located at both ends in the longitudinal direction of the drum frame 5, thereby allowing the drum frame 5 to support the photosensitive drum 7 in a manner that allows the photosensitive drum 7 to rotate.

[0043] The charging roller 8, mounted on the drum unit 4, is pushed toward the photosensitive drum 7 by the charging roller pressure application spring 36 in the direction of arrow C. The charging roller 8 is configured to be driven by the photosensitive drum 7, and when the photosensitive drum 7 is being rotated in the direction of arrow A during image formation, the charging roller 8 rotates in the direction of arrow D (the positive direction of rotation relative to the photosensitive drum 7).

[0044] The cleaning blade 10 mounted on the drum unit 4 consists of an elastic member 10a for removing residual toner (waste toner) remaining on the surface of the photosensitive drum 7 after a single transfer, and a support member 10b for supporting the elastic member 10a. The waste toner removed from the surface of the photosensitive drum 7 by the cleaning blade 10 is contained in a waste toner containing chamber 9, which is formed by the cleaning blade 10 and the drum frame 5. The waste toner contained in the waste toner containing chamber 9 is conveyed towards the back side of the imaging device 100 (downstream side in the mounting / removal direction of the processing cartridge 1) via a waste toner screw 15 disposed within the waste toner containing chamber 9. The conveyed waste toner is discharged from the waste toner discharge section 35 and transferred to the waste toner conveying unit 23 of the imaging device 100.

[0045] The developing unit 6, which serves as a developer container, has a developing frame 16 that supports various components within the developing unit 6. The developing frame 16 is divided into a developing chamber 16a in which a developing roller (developer carrier) 11 and a supply roller 17 are disposed, and a toner receiving chamber (developer receiving chamber) 16b in which toner is contained and a stirring member 29 is arranged. The developing roller 11 and the supply roller 17 are disposed on the developing frame 16, and the developing unit 6 is also referred to as a developing device.

[0046] The developing roller 11, supply roller 17, and developing blade 28 are disposed in the developing chamber 16a. The developing roller 11 carries toner and delivers toner to the photosensitive drum 7 by rotating in the direction of arrow E while in contact with the photosensitive drum 7 during image formation. The developing roller 11 is also rotatably supported at both ends in its longitudinal direction (direction of rotation axis) by bearing portions (not shown) disposed on the developing bearing 34. Thus, the developing bearing 34, as a bearing member, supports the developing roller 11 in a manner that allows the developing roller 11 to rotate. The supply roller 17 contacts the developing roller 11 and is rotatably supported by bearing portions (not shown) disposed on the developing bearing. During image formation, the supply roller 17 rotates in the direction of arrow F. The developing blade 28, as a layer thickness control member, is arranged to contact the surface of the developing roller 11. The developing blade 28 controls the thickness of the toner layer formed on the developing roller 11.

[0047] The toner receiving chamber 16b is equipped with a stirring member (transport member) 29 for stirring the toner T contained in the toner receiving chamber 16b, and also for conveying the toner in the toner receiving chamber 16b to the developing chamber 16a via the developing communication hole 16c. The stirring member 29 has a rotating shaft 29a parallel to the rotation axis of the developing roller 11 and a stirring blade 29b. The stirring blade 29b is a flexible blade. One end of the stirring blade 29b is attached to the rotating shaft 29a, while the other end of the stirring blade 29b is a free end. The toner is stirred by the stirring blade 29b as the rotating shaft 29a rotates and the stirring blade 29b rotates in the direction of arrow G.

[0048] The developing unit 6 has a developing communication hole 16c that connects the developing chamber 16a and the toner receiving chamber 16b. In this embodiment, when the developing unit 6 is in its normal operating position (the position when in use), the developing chamber 16a is vertically positioned above the toner receiving chamber 16b. The toner agitated by the stirring member 29 in the toner receiving chamber 16b passes through the developing communication hole 16c and is supplied to the developing chamber 16a.

[0049] Furthermore, a toner inlet 40 is provided on the developing unit 6. The toner inlet 40 is located at one end of the developing unit 6 relative to the rotation axis of the developing roller 11. In this embodiment, the toner inlet 40 is located downstream of the developing unit 6 along the installation / removal direction of the processing cartridge 1. An inlet sealing member 45 and an inlet baffle 41 movable in the front-rear direction are provided at the top of the toner inlet 40. When the processing cartridge 1 is not installed on the imaging device 100, the toner inlet 40 is closed by the inlet baffle 41. The inlet baffle 41 is configured to be pushed by the imaging device 100 and to open during the installation / removal operation of the processing cartridge 1.

[0050] An infeed conveyor path 42 is provided on the developing unit 6, and a rotatable conveyor screw (rotating member) 43 is provided within the infeed conveyor path 42. The infeed conveyor path 42 has a toner inlet (inlet) 40 for infeeding toner, and the toner inlet 40 communicates with the infeed conveyor path 42. Additionally, a toner receiving chamber communication opening 44 for supplying toner to the toner receiving chamber 16b is provided near the center in the longitudinal direction of the developing unit 6, wherein the infeed conveyor path 42 and the toner receiving chamber 16b are connected through the receiving chamber communication opening 44. The infeed conveyor path 42 is a guiding portion for guiding toner to the receiving chamber communication opening 44. The conveyor screw 43 extends parallel to the rotation axis of the developing roller 11 and the supply roller 17. A conveyor fin portion (conveyor portion) is provided on the conveyor screw 43. When the conveying screw 43 rotates, the toner taken in through the toner inlet 40 is conveyed through the conveying fins via the intake conveying path 42 to the receiving chamber communication opening 44. Then, the toner is supplied to the toner receiving chamber 16b via the receiving chamber communication opening 44, which communicates with the toner receiving chamber 16b.

[0051] Contact and separation operations

[0052] Next, we will refer to Figure 1A , 1B Sections 5, 6A, and 6B describe in detail the contact / separation operation of the developing roller 11 and the photosensitive drum 7. Figure 1A This is a side view of the processing cartridge 1 with the developing roller 11 separated from the photosensitive drum 7. Figure 1B This is a side view of the processing cartridge 1 with the developing roller 11 in contact with the photosensitive drum 7. Figure 5 This is a schematic perspective view showing the connection state of the drum unit 4 and the developing unit 6. Figure 6A This is a cross-sectional view showing the developing roller 11 separated from the photosensitive drum 7. Figure 6B It is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which the developing roller 11 is in contact with the photosensitive drum 7. Figure 6A and 6B This is a cross-sectional view taken near the middle of processing box 1.

[0053] like Figure 5 As shown, a pair of holes 5a and 5b are provided at one end of the drum frame 5 in the longitudinal direction, and a hole 5c is provided at the other end of the drum frame 5 in the longitudinal direction. Simultaneously, a pivot hole (support hole) 34a corresponding to the pair of holes 5a and 5b of the drum frame 5 is provided on one of the two developing bearings 34, while a pair of pivot holes (support holes) 34b and 34c corresponding to hole 5c are provided on the other of the two developing bearings 34. One of the two rotating support pins 30 is fitted into the pivot hole 34a and holes 5a and 5b, while the other of the two rotating support pins 30 is fitted into the pivot holes 34b and 34c and hole 5c. Therefore, the developing unit 6 is connected to the drum unit 4, thereby enabling it to pivot relative to the drum unit 4 about the rotating support pin 30 or the pivot holes 34a to 34c. Accordingly, the developing unit 6 is supported by the drum unit 4. That is, the central axis of the rotating support pin 30 matches the axis of rotation of the developing unit 6, which rotates relative to the drum unit 4.

[0054] Additionally, a limiting portion 5d (first portion) is provided at one end of the drum frame 5 in the longitudinal direction, and a bearing limiting portion 34d (second portion) is provided on the developing bearing 34 at a position corresponding to the limiting portion 5d, such as... Figure 1A and 1B As shown. The limiting portion 5d and the bearing limiting portion 34d are positioned away from the rotation axis of the developing unit 6 (the central axis of the rotating support pin 30) in a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis of the developing unit 6. When the limiting portion 5d and the bearing limiting portion 34d face each other, the limiting portion 5d is protruding, while the bearing limiting portion 34d is planar. Therefore, a protruding portion is provided on the surface facing the bearing limiting portion 34d. This configuration is not limiting, and both the limiting portion 5d and the bearing limiting portion 34d can be protruding. Furthermore, the limiting portion 5d can be planar, while the bearing limiting portion 34d can be protruding. Figure 1A , 1BAs can be understood from 6A and 6B, relative to the direction orthogonal to the rotation axis of the developing unit 6, the distance between the rotation axis of the developing unit 6 and the limiting portion 5d is shorter than the distance between the rotation axis of the developing unit 6 (the central axis of the rotating support pin 30) and the rotation center of the developing roller 11. Similarly, the distance between the rotation axis of the developing unit 6 and the bearing limiting portion 34d is shorter than the distance between the rotation axis of the developing unit 6 and the rotation center of the developing roller 11. Therefore, a smaller space can be used to set up the limiting portion 5d and the bearing limiting portion 34d.

[0055] Although in this embodiment the limiting portion 5d is disposed at one end of the drum frame 5 in the longitudinal direction and the bearing limiting portion 34d is disposed on one of the two developing bearings 34, this configuration is not limiting. For example, it can be arranged such that the limiting portion 5d is disposed at the middle in the longitudinal direction of the drum frame 5, and the bearing limiting portion 34d is disposed at the middle in the longitudinal direction of the developing frame 16. Alternatively, for example, it can be arranged such that one of the two limiting portions 5d is disposed at one end of the drum frame 5 in the longitudinal direction, and the other of the two limiting portions 5d is disposed at the other end of the drum frame 5 in the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, for example, it can be arranged such that one of the two bearing limiting portions 34d is disposed on one of the two developing bearings 34, and the other of the two bearing limiting portions 34d is disposed on the other of the two developing bearings 34.

[0056] When no image is formed, the weight (self-weight) of the developing unit 6 relative to its center of gravity 46 is ( ). Figure 6A The direction of arrow W in the diagram generates a torque around the rotational support pin 30. Figure 6A (in the direction of arrow N), and the developing roller 11 and the photosensitive drum 7 are separated from each other. Then, the separation state of the developing roller 11 and the photosensitive drum 7 is maintained by the contacting limiting portion 5d and the bearing limiting portion 34d, as shown. Figure 1A As shown. Hereinafter, the position of the developing unit 6 in the separated state, where the developing roller 11 is separated from the photosensitive drum 7, will be referred to as the "separation position". Moving the position of the developing unit 6 to the separation position when no image is being formed makes it possible to suppress deformation of the surface layer of the developing roller 11 caused by contact between the developing roller 11 and the photosensitive drum 7.

[0057] The pressure applying rod 101 is located at both ends in the longitudinal direction of the device body 100a. The pressure applying rod 101 can be positioned at the pressure application position via a mechanism (not shown in the figure). Figure 1B Position S in the middle and non-pressure applied position ( Figure 1A The pressure rod moves between positions T. Additionally, a pressure receiving portion 34e is provided at each of the positions corresponding to the two pressure applying rods 101.

[0058] During image formation, the pressure application rod 101 moves in the pressure application direction (direction of arrow U) and contacts the pressure receiving portion 34e of the developing bearing 34, such as... Figure 1B As shown. Therefore, the pressure applying rod 101 pushes the developing bearing 34, thereby causing the developing unit 6 to rotate around the rotating support pin 30. Figure 6B The developing roller 11 rotates in the direction of arrow M and contacts the photosensitive drum 7. Hereinafter, the position of the developing unit 6 (developing roller 11) in the contact state with the photosensitive drum 7 will be referred to as the "contact position". At the end of imaging, the pressure application lever 101 moves in the retraction direction (…). Figure 1A and 6A The direction of arrow V in the diagram indicates movement. Due to the weight of the developing unit 6 ( Figure 6A The torque around the rotational support pin 30 caused by the direction of arrow W in the figure ( Figure 6A The direction of arrow N in the diagram causes the developing unit 6 to move back to the separation position. When the developing unit 6 is in both the separation and contact positions, the pressure receiving portion 34e is positioned vertically above the rotation axis of the developing unit 6. The operation of the pressure applying rod 101 is controlled by a control unit provided on the device body 100a. The contact and separation operations of the developing roller 11 caused by the movement of the pressure applying rod 101 are preferably performed while the photosensitive drum 7 is rotating, and more preferably while both the photosensitive drum 7 and the developing roller 11 are rotating.

[0059] At this time, the center of gravity and weight of the developing unit 6 vary depending on the amount of toner contained in the developing unit 6. Therefore, the position of the rotating support pin 30 is designed so that regardless of the amount of toner remaining in the developing unit 6, the developing unit 6 moves to the separation position due to the torque generated by its own weight.

[0060] At this moment, drum unit 4 is taking... Figure 6B The posture adopted during the imaging operation, and the developing unit 6 is in the contact position. Conversely, in Figure 6A In the middle, the posture of drum unit 4 and Figure 6B The drum unit 4 is the same as the one in the image processing unit 100a, but the developing unit 6 is located in the separation position. The posture of the drum unit 4 when removing the processing cartridge 1 from the device body 100a (removal posture) is the same as the posture of the drum unit 4 when performing the imaging operation, which will be described later. Therefore, the posture of the drum unit 4 when removing the processing cartridge 1 from the device body 100a is the same as the one in the image processing unit 100a. Figure 6A and 6B The posture shown is the same. (As shown) Figure 6A As shown, the photosensitive drum 7 and the developing roller 11 are located vertically above the rotation axis of the developing unit 6 (the central axis of the rotating support pin 30). Figure 6AAs shown, in this embodiment, the rotation axis of the developing unit 6 (the central axis of the rotating support pin 30) is positioned such that the center of gravity 46 of the developing unit 6 is located above the rotation axis of the developing unit 6 in the vertical direction. The rotation axis of the developing unit 6 is also positioned such that the center of gravity 46 of the developing unit 6 is located on the side opposite to the photosensitive drum 7 in the horizontal direction. Furthermore, the area of ​​the developing unit 6 located above the rotation axis of the developing unit 6 in the vertical direction is larger than the area of ​​the developing unit 6 located below the rotation axis of the developing unit 6, such as... Figure 6A As shown. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the weight of the region of the developing unit 6 located above the rotation axis of the developing unit 6 in the vertical direction is greater than the weight of the region of the developing unit 6 located below the rotation axis of the developing unit 6. This arrangement allows the separation of the developing unit 6 to be performed to be stabilized by the weight of the developing unit 6 itself.

[0061] Remove the processing box from the main body of the device.

[0062] The processing cartridge 1 can be removed by opening the door of the device body 100a. For example, the processing cartridge 1 can be removed from the device body 100a by grasping the handle located near the processing cartridge 1 and pulling the processing cartridge 1 out in the axial direction of the photosensitive drum 7.

[0063] In this embodiment, the door of the device body 100a is opened, causing the photosensitive drum 7 to move away from the intermediate transfer belt 18, while the drum unit 4 maintains the same posture as when an image is formed in the processing cartridge 1. In this state, it is permissible to mount the processing cartridge 1 onto or remove it from the device body 100a. That is, the posture of the drum unit 4 when removing the processing cartridge 1 from the device body 100a (removal posture) is the same as the posture of the drum unit 4 during the imaging operation. With the processing cartridge 1 mounted onto the device body 100a and the drum unit 4 in the removal posture, it is permissible to remove the processing cartridge from the device body 100a. Therefore, in the following references... Figure 1A , 1B In the descriptions of the removal of processing box 1 in 6A and 6B, it will be assumed that... Figure 1A , 1B The drum unit 4 shown in 6A and 6B is being described in a removal posture. It should also be noted that... Figure 1A , 1B The vertical direction in 6A and 6B is the same as the vertical direction when drum unit 4 is in the removal posture. Furthermore, Figure 1A , 1B The left-right directions in 6A and 6B are the same as the horizontal direction when drum unit 4 is in the removal posture. At this time, the positional relationship between the rotation axis of developing unit 6 and the center of gravity 46 of developing unit 6 is the same as described above. Figure 6A The descriptions are the same.

[0064] When the pressure application rod 101 is in the retraction direction ( Figure 1A and 6A When the developing unit 6 moves (in the direction of arrow V), the weight of the developing unit 6 generates a torque around the rotating support pin 30 within the developing unit 6. Similarly, when the processing cartridge 1 is removed from the device body 100a, the weight of the developing unit 6 generates a torque around the rotating support pin 30 within the developing unit 6. Therefore, the developing unit 6 moves to the separation position, causing the developing roller 11 to separate from the photosensitive drum 7, and the limiting portion 5d and the bearing limiting portion 34d come into contact, as... Figure 1A As shown. Therefore, even if the processing cartridge 1 is left unattended for a long time, permanent deformation of the elastic layer of the developing roller 11 caused by the contact between the developing roller 11 and the photosensitive drum 7 can be suppressed.

[0065] In other words, the processing cartridge 1 is configured such that when the drum unit 4 is in a removal posture, the developing unit 6 automatically moves from the contact position to the separation position by its own weight. Note that the developing unit 6 does not necessarily move from the contact position to the separation position solely by its own weight. For example, the processing cartridge 1 may have a force-applying member that pushes the developing unit 6 in the direction that moves the developing unit 6 from the contact position to the separation position.

[0066] In the processing cartridge 1, when the drum unit 4 is in the removal posture, the developing unit 6 naturally separates from the contact position to the separation position due to its own weight. That is, when the processing cartridge 1 is removed from the device body 100a and the drum unit 4 is in the same posture as the removal posture, the developing unit 6 is in the separation position. In other words, when the processing cartridge 1 is removed from the device body 100a and the drum unit 4 is in the removal posture, the developing unit 6 is in the separation position due to its own weight. Furthermore, the posture of the drum unit 4 when the processing cartridge 1 is allowed to be removed from the device body 100a is included in the posture of the drum unit 4 when the developing unit 6 is in the separation position due to its own weight. Therefore, when the processing cartridge 1 is removed from the device body 100a, the developing unit 6 naturally moves to the separation position, and remains in the separation position even after the processing cartridge 1 has been removed from the device body 100a. Therefore, when the processing cartridge 1 is removed from the device body 100a, the developing unit 6 can be positioned in the separation position without performing any special operations. Furthermore, there is no need to provide a separation component to maintain the developing unit 6 in the separated position. In other words, the developing roller 11 can be easily separated from the photosensitive drum 7 when the processing cartridge 1 is removed from the main body 100a of the device.

[0067] In this embodiment, even if drum unit 4 from Figure 6AThe posture shown rotates around the rotation axis of the developing unit 6 in a first direction and in a second direction opposite to the first direction (clockwise and counterclockwise), and the developing unit 6 is maintained in the separation position within a predetermined range. That is, the center of gravity 46 of the developing unit 6 holds the developing unit 6 in a position that is pushed towards the separation position. In this embodiment, when moving from... Figure 6A The developing unit 6 remains in the separated position both when the drum unit 4 is rotated 30° clockwise around the rotation axis of the developing unit 6 and when it is rotated 30° counterclockwise from the same position. To stably maintain the developing unit 6 in the separated position even when the processing cartridge 1 is removed from the device body 100a, it is preferable that the developing unit 6 remains in the separated position even when the drum unit 4 is rotated 10° in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions. More preferably, as described above, the developing unit 6 is preferably maintained in the separated position even when the drum unit 4 is rotated 30° in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions around the rotation axis of the developing unit 6.

[0068] The positions of the limiting portion 5d and the bearing limiting portion 34d are respectively set so that even if there are changes in component dimensions, the developing roller 11 and the photosensitive drum 7 can separate in a defined manner when the developing unit 6 moves to the separation position. At this time, the developing bearing 34 is provided with a bearing portion (not shown) for the developing roller 11, a pivot hole 34b, and a bearing limiting portion 34d. Compared to the case where the bearing portion, pivot hole 34b, and bearing limiting portion 34d for the developing roller 11 are provided on multiple components, providing the bearing portion, pivot hole 34b, and bearing limiting portion 34d for the developing roller 11 on the same component reduces the change in separation position due to changes in component dimensions. Therefore, in order to separate the developing roller 11 and the photosensitive drum 7 in a defined manner, the necessary amount of movement of the developing unit 6 relative to the drum unit 4 can be set to be smaller. Therefore, the distance between the contact position and the separation position can be smaller, thereby improving user operability. Figure 1A , 1B Furthermore, it can be understood that in this embodiment, the positions of the rotating support pin 30, the bearing limiting portion 34d, and the limiting portion 5d overlap relative to the rotation axis direction of the developing unit 6. Therefore, the position of the developing unit 6 can be more precisely limited. According to... Figure 1A and 1B It can also be understood that when the developing unit 6 is in the separation position and the contact position, the bearing limiting portion 34d is located below the rotation axis of the developing unit 6 in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the limiting portion 5d is arranged below the bearing limiting portion 34d. Therefore, the limiting portion 5d can stably support the bearing limiting portion 34d.

[0069] Now, refer to Figure 8The arrangement of bearing limiting portion 34d and limiting portion 5d is described in more detail. Figure 8 This is a diagram depicting the arrangement of the bearing limiting portion 34d and the limiting portion 5d.

[0070] Figure 8 The diagram shows the state in which the developing unit 6 is in the separated position when viewed along the rotation axis of the developing unit 6.

[0071] The point where the bearing restraint portion 34d and the restraint portion 5d come into contact will be called the contact point Pd, such as... Figure 8 As shown. The line that contacts the bearing limiting portion 34d and the limiting portion 5d at the contact point Pd will be called line (first line) Ld. Conversely, the line passing through the contact point Pd and the rotation axis of the developing unit 6 will be called line Lc, and the line orthogonal to line Lc and passing through the contact point Pd will be called line (second line) Lt. The bearing limiting portion 34d can move along a circle Rd centered on the rotation axis of the developing unit 6 and passing through the contact point Pd. Line Lt in Figure 8 The direction of movement of the bearing limiting portion 34d is consistent with that of the bearing, and the tangent of the circle Rd is aligned at the contact point Pd. To accurately position the bearing limiting portion 34d, the angle θ between line Lt and line Ld is preferably close to 90°. Therefore, the angle θ between line Lt and line Ld is preferably greater than or equal to 45° and less than or equal to 135°, more preferably greater than or equal to 60° and less than or equal to 120°. In this embodiment, the angle θ between line Lt and line Ld is approximately 75°.

[0072] As described above, the drum unit 4, as the first unit, has a photosensitive drum 7 and a limiting portion 5d as the first part, and the developing unit 6, as the second unit, has a developing roller 11 and a bearing limiting portion 34d as the second part. The developing unit 6 is movable between a first position and a second position. The first position is the position of the developing unit 6 when the developing roller 11 is in contact with the photosensitive drum 7. The second position is the position of the developing unit 6 when the developing roller 11 is separated from the photosensitive drum 7 and the bearing limiting portion 34d is in contact with the limiting portion 5d. The developing unit 6 moves from the first position to the second position by a predetermined pushing force. Therefore, the developing roller 11 is separated from the photosensitive drum 7, thus preventing contact between the developing roller 11 and the photosensitive drum 7 even when the processing cartridge 1 is left in place for a long time. The predetermined pushing force includes the pushing force caused by the weight of the developing unit 6 itself. When the developing unit 6 is in the second position, the movement of the developing unit 6 in the direction along which the developing roller 11 is spaced from the photosensitive drum 7 is restricted by the contact between the bearing limiting portion 34d and the limiting portion 5d. Therefore, the separation state of the developing roller 11 and the photosensitive drum 7 is maintained when the processing cartridge 1 is removed from the main body 100a, and the distance between the developing roller 11 and the photosensitive drum 7 can be kept constant.

[0073] Second Embodiment

[0074] Next, we will refer to Figure 7 The second embodiment of the present invention is described below. Figure 7 This is a side view of the processing cartridge 1 with the developing roller 11 separated from the photosensitive drum 7. The differences between the second embodiment and the first embodiment will be described in detail. Unless otherwise specified, the materials, shapes, processes, etc., are the same as in the first embodiment. Elements having the same or equivalent functions and structures as the processing cartridge 1 in the first embodiment are indicated by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0075] A boss 34g is provided on one end of the developing bearing 34 in the longitudinal direction, and a boss 5g is provided on one end of the drum frame 5 in the longitudinal direction. The processing box 1 is provided with a tension spring 50 as a force-applying component. One end of the tension spring 50 is attached to the boss 5g (first protrusion) on the drum frame 5, and the other end of the tension spring 50 is attached to the boss 34g (second protrusion) provided on the developing bearing 34. Therefore, the tension spring 50 engages the boss 34g and the boss 5g. The tension spring 50 pushes the developing bearing 34 (…) on the pressure application rod 101. Figure 1B and 6B And the developing roller 11 is tensioned in the contact state with the photosensitive drum 7. When the pressure applying rod 101 moves in the retraction direction ( Figure 1A and 6A The restoring force of the tension spring 50 generates a pressure relative to the developing unit 6 in the direction of arrow R. The torque that causes the developing unit 6 to rotate relative to the drum unit 4 in the direction of arrow N is generated by the force applied to the developing unit 6 by the tension spring 50 and the weight of the developing unit 6 as described in the first embodiment. Figure 6A The product is produced according to the direction of the arrow W in the diagram. Therefore, the developing unit 6 moves to the separation position.

[0076] In the same manner as in the first embodiment, even if the processing cartridge 1 is left in place for a long time after being removed from the device body 100a, permanent deformation of the elastic layer of the developing roller 11 caused by the contact between the developing roller 11 and the photosensitive drum 7 can be suppressed.

[0077] In this embodiment, the direction of the torque around the rotational support pin 30 caused by the applied force of the tension spring 50 and the weight of the developing unit 6 is the direction that causes the developing unit 6 to move relative to the drum unit 4 in the direction of arrow N. Regardless of the direction of the applied force of the tension spring 50 ( Figure 7 Is the direction of arrow R in the diagram consistent with or different from the vertical direction (direction of gravity)? What is the direction of the torque around the rotational support pin 30 caused by the force applied by the tension spring 50? Figure 6AThe direction of arrow N in the diagram.

[0078] The direction of the torque caused by the force applied by the tension spring 50 and the direction of the torque caused by the weight of the developing unit 6 can be the same. However, the direction of the torque caused by the weight of the developing unit 6 and the direction of the torque caused by the tension spring 50 can be different. For example, when the developing unit 6 is located vertically above the drum unit 4, the direction of the torque around the rotation support pin 30 caused by the weight of the developing unit 6 may be... Figure 6B The direction of arrow M in the diagram. In this embodiment, the magnitude of the applied force of the tension spring 50 is set such that the direction of the total torque around the rotational support pin 30 is... Figure 6A The direction of arrow N in the diagram. Therefore, for example, even when the direction of the torque caused by the weight of the developing unit 6 is opposite to the direction of the torque caused by the tension spring 50, the developing unit 6 is relative to the drum unit 4 along... Figure 7 Rotate in the direction of arrow N.

[0079] In the same manner as in the first embodiment, the developing unit 6 moves from a first position to a second position due to a predetermined applied force. The first position is the position of the developing unit 6 when the developing roller 11 contacts the photosensitive drum 7. The second position is the position of the developing unit 6 when the developing roller 11 separates from the photosensitive drum 7 and the bearing limiting portion 34d contacts the limiting portion 5d. For example, when the direction of the torque caused by the weight of the developing unit 6 is opposite to the direction of the torque caused by the tension spring 50, the predetermined applied force is the applied force acting on the developing unit 6 due to the tension spring 50. When the direction of the torque caused by the weight of the developing unit 6 is the same as the direction of the torque caused by the tension spring 50, the predetermined applied force includes, for example, the applied force caused by the weight of the developing unit 6 and the applied force acting on the developing unit 6 due to the tension spring 50.

[0080] The tension spring 50 can be arranged at one end of the longitudinal direction of the processing box 1, or the tension spring 50 can be arranged at the middle of the longitudinal direction of the processing box 1. Alternatively, two tension springs 50 can be arranged, with one tension spring arranged at either end of the longitudinal direction of the processing box 1.

[0081] Furthermore, the tension spring is not limited, and the same advantages can be obtained by using a compression spring or a torsion coil spring, as long as the configuration generates a torque that causes the developing unit 6 to rotate relative to the drum unit 4 in the direction along which the developing roller 11 separates from the photosensitive drum 7.

[0082] The posture of the drum unit 4 when removing the processing cartridge 1 from the device body 100a (removal posture) has been described above as the same as the posture of the drum unit 4 when performing the imaging operation. However, the posture of the drum unit 4 when removing the processing cartridge 1 from the device body 100a (removal posture) and the posture of the drum unit 4 when performing the imaging operation may be different. In this case, when the drum unit 4 is in the removal posture, the weight of the developing unit 6 is sufficient to position the developing unit 6 at the separation position.

[0083] According to the present invention, a cartridge can be provided in which the image carrier component and the developer carrier component are easily separable.

[0084] Although the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of the appended claims should be given the broadest interpretation to cover all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. A printer box, comprising: The drum unit includes a photosensitive drum and a first part; The developing unit includes a developer, a developing roller, a second part, and a receiving part configured to receive external forces. The developing unit is rotatably connected to a drum unit and configured to rotate relative to the drum unit about a rotation axis between the following positions: In the first posture, the developing roller is in contact with the photosensitive drum while the receiving part is receiving an external force. and In the second orientation, the developing roller is separated from the photosensitive drum and the surface of the second part contacts the surface of the first part. Specifically, when the drum unit is in a predetermined posture and the developing unit is in a first posture, the developing unit moves to a second posture by its own weight while being removed from the receiving part by an external force. Wherein, the drum unit is in the predetermined posture: Relative to the vertical direction, the rotation center of the photosensitive drum is set above the rotation axis, and the surface of the first portion is set below the rotation axis; and Relative to the horizontal direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation, the axis of rotation is located between the center of rotation of the photosensitive drum and the surface of the first part, and When viewed along the axis of rotation, the distance between the axis of rotation and the surface of the first part is shorter than the distance between the rotation center of the developing roller and the axis of rotation.

2. The printer cartridge according to claim 1, wherein: The drum unit includes a frame that rotatably supports the photosensitive drum, and The framework includes the first part.

3. The printer box according to claim 1, wherein: The developing unit includes a bearing component that rotatably supports the developing roller. The developing unit is pivotally connected to the drum unit, the pivoting being centered on a support hole located in the bearing member, and The second part is located at the bearing component.

4. The printer box according to claim 1, wherein, With the drum unit in the predetermined posture, the center of gravity of the developing unit is located above the axis of rotation relative to the vertical direction.

5. The printer box according to claim 1, wherein, When the drum unit is in the predetermined posture, the area of ​​the developing unit located above the rotation axis relative to the vertical direction is larger than the area of ​​the developing unit located below the rotation axis.

6. The printer box according to claim 1, wherein, When viewed along the axis of rotation, the first and second parts are positioned at a predetermined distance from the axis of rotation.

7. The printer box according to claim 1, wherein, When the developing unit is in the second posture, when viewed along the axis of rotation, the angle formed between (i) the first line and (ii) the second line is greater than or equal to 45° and less than or equal to 135°. The first line contacts the first part and the second part at the contact point where the surface of the first part contacts the second part. The second line is orthogonal to the line passing through the axis of rotation and the contact point and passes through the contact point.

8. The printer cartridge according to claim 6, wherein, When the developing unit is in the second posture, when viewed along the axis of rotation, the angle formed between (i) the first line and (ii) the second line is greater than or equal to 45° and less than or equal to 135°. The first line contacts the first part and the second part at the contact point where the surface of the first part contacts the second part. The second line is orthogonal to the line passing through the axis of rotation and the contact point and passes through the contact point.

9. The printer box according to claim 1, wherein, With the drum unit in the predetermined posture, the developing roller is positioned above the axis of rotation relative to the vertical direction.

10. The printer cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising: The pushing section, specifically the pushing developing unit, The developing unit moves to the second position due to its own weight and the pushing force applied to it by the pushing part.

11. The printer cartridge according to claim 10, wherein, The pushing part is a spring.

12. The printer cartridge according to claim 1, wherein, The printer cartridge can be detachably attached to the main body of the imaging device along the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum.

13. The printer box according to claim 1, further comprising: First support pin, The developing unit includes a first bearing member that rotatably supports the developing roller. The first bearing member includes a first support opening that receives a first support pin, such that the drum unit and the developing unit are pivotally connected.

14. The printer cartridge according to claim 13, wherein, The first bearing component includes the second part.

15. The printer cartridge of claim 14, further comprising: Second support pin, The developing unit includes a second bearing member that rotatably supports the developing roller. The second bearing member includes a second support opening that receives a second support pin, such that the drum unit and the developing unit are pivotally connected.

16. The printer cartridge according to claim 15, wherein: The first support opening includes a first hole and a second hole, and Both the first hole and the second hole receive the first support pin.

17. The printer cartridge according to claim 16, wherein, With the drum unit in the predetermined posture, the developing roller is positioned above the axis of rotation relative to the vertical direction.

18. An imaging device, comprising: main body; Transfer section; and Printer box, comprising: The drum unit includes a photosensitive drum and a first part; The developing unit includes a developer, a developing roller, a second part, and a receiving part configured to receive external forces. The developing unit is rotatably connected to a drum unit and configured to rotate relative to the drum unit about a rotation axis between the following positions: In the first posture, the developing roller contacts the photosensitive drum while the receiving part is receiving external force; and In the second orientation, the developing roller is separated from the photosensitive drum and the surface of the second part contacts the surface of the first part. Specifically, when the drum unit is in a predetermined posture and the developing unit is in a first posture, the developing unit moves to a second posture by its own weight while being removed from the receiving part by an external force. Wherein, the drum unit is in the predetermined posture: Relative to the vertical direction, the rotation center of the photosensitive drum is set above the rotation axis, and the surface of the first portion is set below the rotation axis; and Relative to the horizontal direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation, the axis of rotation is located between the center of rotation of the photosensitive drum and the surface of the first part, and Specifically, when viewed along the axis of rotation, the distance between the axis of rotation and the surface of the first part is shorter than the distance between the rotation center of the developing roller and the axis of rotation. The printer cartridge can be detachably mounted to the main body along the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum, and The transfer section transfers the image from the developer carried by the photosensitive drum onto the recording medium.

19. A printer box, comprising: The drum unit includes a photosensitive drum, a charging roller for the contact photosensitive drum, and a first part; The developing unit includes a developer, a developing roller, a developing frame, a second part, and a receiving part. The developing frame has a chamber for receiving the developer, a rotating shaft, and a stirring blade attached to the rotating shaft. The receiving part is configured to receive external forces. The developing unit is rotatably connected to a drum unit and configured to rotate relative to the drum unit about a rotation axis between the following positions: In the first posture, the developing roller is in contact with the photosensitive drum while the receiving part is receiving an external force. and In the second orientation, the developing roller is separated from the photosensitive drum and the surface of the second part contacts the surface of the first part. Specifically, when the drum unit is in a predetermined posture and the developing unit is in a first posture, the developing unit moves to a second posture by its own weight while being removed from the receiving part by an external force. Wherein, the drum unit is in the predetermined posture: The rotation center of the photosensitive drum is set above the rotation axis relative to the vertical direction, and the charging roller is set below the photosensitive drum.

20. The printer cartridge according to claim 19, wherein: The drum unit includes a drum frame that rotatably supports the photosensitive drum, and The drum frame includes the first part.

21. The printer cartridge according to claim 19, wherein, When viewed along the axis of rotation, the distance between the axis of rotation and the surface of the first part is shorter than the distance between the rotation center of the developing roller and the axis of rotation.

22. The printer cartridge according to claim 19, wherein, With the drum unit in the predetermined posture, the center of gravity of the developing unit is located above the axis of rotation relative to the vertical direction.

23. The printer cartridge according to claim 19, wherein, With the drum unit in the predetermined posture and the developing unit in the first posture, the rotation axis is positioned between the rotating shaft and the charging roller relative to the horizontal direction.

24. The printer cartridge according to claim 23, wherein, With the drum unit in the predetermined posture and the developing unit in the first posture, the photosensitive drum, developing roller, and charging roller are arranged above the rotation axis relative to the vertical direction, and the rotation axis is arranged above the rotation axis.

25. The printer cartridge according to claim 24, wherein, With the drum unit in the predetermined posture and the developing unit in the second posture, the surface of the first part is set lower than the surface of the second part relative to the vertical direction.

26. The printer cartridge according to claim 25, wherein, With the drum unit in the predetermined posture and the developing unit in the second posture, the rotation axis is set higher than the rotation axis relative to the vertical direction.

27. The printer cartridge according to claim 19, wherein, With the drum unit in the predetermined posture and the developing unit in the first posture, the photosensitive drum, developing roller, and charging roller are arranged above the rotation axis relative to the vertical direction, and the rotation axis is arranged above the rotation axis.

28. The printer cartridge according to claim 19, wherein, With the drum unit in the predetermined posture and the developing unit in the second posture, the surface of the first part is set lower than the surface of the second part relative to the vertical direction.

29. The printer cartridge according to claim 19, wherein, With the drum unit in the predetermined posture and the developing unit in the second posture, the rotation axis is set higher than the rotation axis relative to the vertical direction.

30. The printer cartridge according to claim 19, wherein, When the drum unit is in the predetermined posture, the area of ​​the developing unit located above the rotation axis relative to the vertical direction is larger than the area of ​​the developing unit located below the rotation axis.

31. The printer cartridge according to claim 19, wherein, When viewed along the axis of rotation, the first and second parts are positioned at a predetermined distance from the axis of rotation.

32. The printer cartridge according to claim 19, wherein, When the developing unit is in the second posture, when viewed along the axis of rotation, the angle formed between (i) the first line and (ii) the second line is greater than or equal to 45° and less than or equal to 135°. The first line contacts the first part and the second part at the contact point where the surface of the first part contacts the surface of the second part. The second line is orthogonal to the line passing through the axis of rotation and the contact point and passes through the contact point.

33. The printer cartridge according to claim 19, wherein, The printer cartridge can be detachably attached to the main body of the imaging device along the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum.

34. The printer cartridge according to claim 19, further comprising: First support pin, The developing unit includes a first bearing member that rotatably supports the developing roller. The first bearing member includes a first support opening that receives a first support pin, such that the drum unit and the developing unit are pivotally connected.

35. The printer cartridge according to claim 34, wherein, The first bearing component includes the second part.

36. The printer cartridge of claim 35, further comprising: Second support pin, The developing unit includes a second bearing member that rotatably supports the developing roller. The second bearing member includes a second support opening that receives a second support pin, such that the drum unit and the developing unit are pivotally connected.

37. The printer cartridge according to claim 36, wherein: The first support opening includes a first hole and a second hole, and Both the first hole and the second hole receive the first support pin.

38. An imaging device, comprising: The drum unit includes a photosensitive drum, a charging roller for the contact photosensitive drum, and a first part; The developing unit includes a developer, a developing roller, a developing frame, a second part, and a receiving part. The developing frame has a chamber for receiving the developer, a rotating shaft, and a stirring blade attached to the rotating shaft. The receiving part is configured to receive external forces. The developing unit is rotatably connected to a drum unit and configured to rotate relative to the drum unit about a rotation axis between the following positions: In the first posture, the developing roller is in contact with the photosensitive drum while the receiving part is receiving an external force. and In the second orientation, the developing roller is separated from the photosensitive drum and the surface of the second part contacts the surface of the first part. Specifically, when the drum unit is in a predetermined posture and the developing unit is in a first posture, the developing unit moves to a second posture by its own weight while being removed from the receiving part by an external force. Wherein, the drum unit is in the predetermined posture: The rotation center of the photosensitive drum is set above the rotation axis; and The charging roller is positioned lower than the photosensitive drum relative to the vertical direction. The printer cartridge can be detachably mounted to the main body along the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum, and The transfer section transfers the image from the developer carried by the photosensitive drum onto the recording medium.

39. A housing configured to be detachably mounted to the body of an imaging device configured to perform imaging operations, the housing comprising: The first unit includes an image-carrying component and a first part; The second unit includes a developer carrier member and a second portion, and is rotatably connected to the first unit. The second unit is configured to move relative to the first unit by rotation about a rotation axis between (i) a first position in which the developer carrier member contacts the image carrier member and (ii) a second position in which the developer carrier member is separated from the image carrier member and the second portion contacts the first portion. In this configuration, with the cartridge removed from the main body and the first unit in a predetermined posture identical to that used for performing the imaging operation, the developer carrier and image carrier are positioned vertically above the axis of rotation, and the second unit is positioned at a second location by its own weight. When the second unit is in the second position, the movement of the second unit in the direction of separation between the developer carrier and the image carrier is restricted by the second part that is in contact with the first part.

40. The box according to claim 39, in, When the first unit is in the predetermined posture with the box removed from the main body, and when the first unit rotates 10° about the rotation axis in the first direction, the second unit is in the second position, and when the first unit rotates 10° in the second direction opposite to the first direction, the second unit is in the second position.

41. The box according to claim 39 or 40, in, When the first unit is in the predetermined posture with the box removed from the main body, the center of gravity of the second unit is located above the axis of rotation in the vertical direction.

42. The box according to claim 41, in, When the first unit is in the predetermined posture with the box removed from the main body, the center of gravity of the second unit is located on the side opposite to the image-carrying member.

43. The box according to claim 39 or 40, in, When the first unit is in the predetermined posture with the box removed from the main body, the area of ​​the second unit located above the rotation axis in the vertical direction is larger than the area of ​​the second unit located below the rotation axis.

44. The box according to claim 39 or 40, in, The first unit includes a frame that supports an image carrier component, enabling the image carrier component to rotate, and a first part is disposed at the frame.

45. The box according to claim 39 or 40, wherein The second unit includes a bearing component that supports the developer carrier component so that the developer carrier component can rotate. The second unit is pivotally connected to the first unit, the pivoting being centered on a support hole located in the bearing member, and The second part is located at the bearing component.

46. ​​The box according to claim 39 or 40, in, The first and second parts are positioned away from the axis of rotation in a direction orthogonal to it.

47. The box according to claim 39 or 40, further comprising a pushing portion for pushing the second unit, in, The force that moves the second unit from the first position to the second position includes the weight of the second unit and the pushing force applied to the second unit by the pushing part.

48. The box according to claim 39 or 40, in, The box can be removed from the body along the rotation axis of the image-carrying component.

49. The box according to claim 39 or 40, wherein, The first and second units are pivotally connected by a pin. The position of the pin overlaps with the position of the first and second parts in the direction relative to the axis of rotation.

50. The box according to claim 39 or 40, wherein, The second unit includes toners.

51. The box according to claim 39 or 40, wherein, The distance between the axis of rotation and the second part in a direction orthogonal to the axis of rotation is shorter than the distance between the rotation center of the developer carrier and the axis of rotation.

52. The box according to claim 39 or 40, in, When the first unit is in the predetermined posture, the first part is positioned below the second part.

53. An imaging device, comprising: The box according to claim 39 or 40 is detachably mounted to the imaging device along the rotation axis of the image-carrying member; and The transfer section transfers the developer image, carried by the image carrier component, onto the recording medium.

Images