Developer container, image forming apparatus

Abstract

The present application provides a developer storage container and an image forming apparatus. The developer storage container (200) has: a container main body (201) having an opening portion (216) that is open to a conveying direction (D5) along a rotation axis (203), and that conveys toner stored in the inside to the conveying direction (D5) and discharges the toner from the opening portion (216) by rotating in a specific direction with the rotation axis (203) as the center; a cover portion (202) that guides the toner discharged from the opening portion (216) downward on a downstream side of the conveying direction (D5) than the opening portion (216); and an extension portion (217) that is formed integrally with the container main body (201) and extends from the container main body (201) to the downstream side of the conveying direction (D5) beyond the opening portion (216).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a developer container and an image forming apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Image forming apparatuses such as printers capable of forming images by electrophotography include a developer container for holding a developer such as a toner. The developer container includes a container body and a guide portion. The container body rotates in a specific direction about a rotation axis along a horizontal plane, conveying the developer contained within it in a transport direction along the rotation axis and discharging it from an opening formed at a downstream end in the transport direction. The guide portion is located further downstream in the transport direction than the opening and guides the developer discharged from the opening downwards.

[0003] Furthermore, an image forming apparatus is known to include a stirring member in order to suppress the coagulation of the developer adhering to the guide portion, the stirring member extending from the container body beyond the opening and downstream in the conveying direction (see Patent Document 1).

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2006-71762

[0006] However, in the image forming apparatus described above, the container body and the stirring member are separate components, and the time required to install the stirring member onto the container body occurs during the manufacturing of the developer container. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide a developer container and an image forming apparatus that can reduce the time spent in manufacturing the developer container.

[0008] A developer container of the present invention is used in a configuration where its rotation axis is along a horizontal plane, comprising a container body, a guide portion, and an extension portion. The container body has an opening that opens in a delivery direction along the rotation axis. Developer contained within the container is delivered in the delivery direction and discharged from the opening by rotating the container body in a specific direction about the rotation axis. The guide portion guides the developer discharged from the opening downwards on a downstream side of the delivery direction, beyond the opening. The extension portion is integrally formed with the container body and extends from within the container body beyond the opening into the downstream side of the delivery direction.

[0009] Another image forming apparatus of the present invention includes the developer container and an image forming unit. The image forming unit uses the developer supplied from the developer container to form an image.

[0010] According to the present invention, the time spent in manufacturing the developer container can be reduced. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the toner supply section of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 3 This is a side view showing the structure of the toner container of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a side view showing the structure of the container body of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a front view showing the structure of the insertion port of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the drive unit of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 7 This is a perspective view showing the structure around the locking mechanism of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the structure around the locking mechanism of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 9 This is a rear view showing the structure of the unlocking part of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 10 This is a rear view showing the structure of the unlocking part of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 11 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the holding part of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 12 This is a front view showing the structure of the holding part of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 13 This is a perspective view showing the structure of the suction section of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 14 This is a side view showing the structure of the suction section of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 X1-X1 sectional view.

[0026] Figure 16 This is a top view showing the structure of the suction section of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 17 This is a perspective view showing the structure around the connecting portion of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 18 This is a perspective view showing the structure around the connecting portion of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 19 This is a rear view showing the structure of the opening of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the extension of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure around the connecting portion of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 22 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the toner container of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 23 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the gear section of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0034] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the following embodiments are merely examples embodying the present invention and do not limit the scope of the invention.

[0035] [Structure of the image forming apparatus 100]

[0036] First, refer to Figure 1 The structure of the image forming apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be explained.

[0037] In the following description, the vertical direction D1 is defined based on the state in which the image forming apparatus 100 is set. Furthermore, the front-back direction D2 is defined as the side of the toner container 200 that is inserted relative to the image forming apparatus 100 as the near side (front side). Additionally, the left-right direction D3 is defined when viewing the image forming apparatus 100 from the near side (front side).

[0038] The image forming apparatus 100 is an apparatus that has at least a printing function. The image forming apparatus 100 uses a developer containing a toner (an example of the developer of this invention) to print an image on printing paper, which is a sheet component. For example, the image forming apparatus 100 is a color printer. Alternatively, the image forming apparatus 100 may also be a black and white printer, a fax machine, a copier, or a digital multifunction printer, etc.

[0039] The image forming apparatus 100 is a tandem color image forming apparatus. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the image forming apparatus 100 includes multiple image forming units 1 to 4, an optical scanning device 5, an intermediate transfer unit 6, a secondary transfer device 7, a fixing device 8, a control unit 9, an operation display unit 10, a paper feed tray 11, a paper output tray 12, and a toner replenishment unit 13. These structural elements are mounted on a housing 14, such as an external frame (not shown) or an internal frame, that constitutes the image forming apparatus 100.

[0040] Image forming units 1 to 4 form toner images of different colors on multiple photosensitive drums 21 arranged side-by-side using a so-called electrophotographic method. These toner images are then transferred sequentially, overlapping each other, onto a moving intermediate transfer belt 6A. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the image forming units 1 to 4 are arranged in a row in the following order from the downstream side of the moving direction D4 of the intermediate transfer belt 6A: black image forming unit 1, yellow image forming unit 2, cyan image forming unit 3, and magenta image forming unit 4.

[0041] Image forming units 1 to 4 are each disposed below the intermediate transfer belt 6A. Each image forming unit 1 to 4 includes a photosensitive drum 21 carrying a toner image, a charging device 22, a developing device 23, and a primary transfer device 24. The surface of the photosensitive drum 21 is charged by the charging device 22, and the charged surface of the photosensitive drum 21 is exposed and scanned by the light scanning device 5. As a result, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 21. The developing device 23 develops the electrostatic latent image using toner. Furthermore, the toner image on the photosensitive drum 21 is transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 6A by the primary transfer device 24.

[0042] The intermediate transfer unit 6 includes an intermediate transfer belt 6A, a drive roller 6B, a driven roller 6C, and a cleaning device 6D. The intermediate transfer belt 6A carries a toner image composed of multiple colors (four colors in this embodiment). The intermediate transfer belt 6A is rotatably supported by the drive roller 6B and the driven roller 6C, so that its surface can move while contacting the surfaces of each photosensitive drum 21. If the intermediate transfer belt 6A is rotated, its surface passes between the photosensitive drum 21 and the primary transfer device 24. At that time, the various colors of toner images carried on the multiple photosensitive drums 21 are sequentially transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 6A in an overlapping manner.

[0043] A toner supply unit 13 is provided above the intermediate transfer unit 6. The toner supply unit 13 supplies toner of the corresponding color to each of the image forming units 1 to 4.

[0044] The secondary transfer unit 7 transfers the toner image transferred on the intermediate transfer belt 6A onto printing paper fed from the paper tray 11. The printing paper with the toner image transferred is conveyed to the fixing unit 8 by a conveying section (not shown). The fixing unit 8 has a heating roller 8A and a pressure roller 8B. The fixing unit 8 conveys the printed sheet with the toner image transferred while applying heat and pressure. As a result, the toner image melts and is fixed onto the printed sheet. The printed sheet with the toner image fixed is further conveyed downstream and discharged onto a disc-shaped output tray 12 located above the intermediate transfer unit 6 and held there.

[0045] The cleaning device 6D removes and recycles the waste toner remaining on the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 6A, and discharges the recycled waste toner into the waste toner container 6E.

[0046] The control unit 9 includes control devices such as a CPU, ROM, RAM, and EEPROM (registered trademark) (not shown). The CPU is a processor that performs various computational processes. The ROM is a non-volatile storage device that pre-stores information such as control programs for causing the CPU to perform various processes. The RAM can be either volatile or non-volatile. The EEPROM is a non-volatile storage device. The RAM and EEPROM are used as temporary memory (working areas) for the various processes executed by the CPU. In the control unit 9, the CPU executes various control programs pre-stored in the ROM. Thus, the image forming apparatus 100 is comprehensively controlled by the control unit 9. Furthermore, the control unit 9 can be composed of electronic circuits such as integrated circuits (ASICs), or it can be a control unit independently of the main control unit that comprehensively controls the image forming apparatus 100.

[0047] The operation display unit 10 includes: a display unit, such as a liquid crystal display that displays various information according to control instructions from the control unit 9; and an operation unit, such as operation keys or a touch panel that inputs various information to the control unit 9 according to user operation.

[0048] [Structure of the toner supply section 13]

[0049] Next, refer to Figures 1-10 Instructions for colorant replenishment section 13.

[0050] like Figure 1 As shown, the toner supply unit 13 includes: a toner container 200 corresponding to various colors such as black, yellow, cyan, and magenta (an example of the developer container of the present invention); and a mounting unit 30, on which the toner container 200 is mounted respectively.

[0051] In addition, such as Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, the toner supply unit 13 includes an insertion port 31, a drive unit 32, and a locking cover 33.

[0052] In addition, such as Figure 7 As shown, the toner supply unit 13 has a locking mechanism 34 and an unlocking unit 35.

[0053] The toner container 200 holds the toner supplied to the developing apparatus 23. In this embodiment, four toner containers 200 corresponding to the colors black, yellow, cyan, and magenta are provided in the toner supply section 13. Figure 2 The diagram only shows the yellow toner container 200; illustrations of toner containers 200 for other colors are omitted. Figure 5 In this diagram, only the locking cap 33 and locking mechanism 34 corresponding to the yellow toner container 200 are shown; illustrations of the locking caps 33 and locking mechanisms 34 corresponding to toner containers 200 of other colors are omitted. Except that the outer diameter of the black toner container 200 is larger than that of the toner containers 200 of other colors, the toner containers 200 of all colors share a common structure. Unless otherwise specified, the following descriptions will refer to... Figure 2 The yellow toner container 200 shown, and the structure corresponding to the toner container 200, will be described.

[0054] like Figure 3 As shown, the toner container 200 includes a container body 201 and a cap 202 (an example of the guide portion of the present invention).

[0055] The container body 201 contains the toner, and along the conveying direction D5 (see reference). Figure 3The toner is conveyed. The conveying direction D5 is from the front surface (front) of the image forming apparatus 100 toward the rear surface (back). The container body 201 is integrally formed of a synthetic resin such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET resin). For example, the connecting portion 214, the gear portion 215, and the opening portion 216 of the container body 201 (see reference) Figure 4 It is formed by injection molding. In addition, the receiving part 211 and the holding part 212 of the container body 201 are formed by injection blow molding.

[0056] like Figure 4 As shown, the container body 201 includes a receiving part 211, a holding part 212, a connecting part 214, a gear part 215, and an opening part 216.

[0057] The housing 211 is configured to rotate with the toner container 200 via a pivot 203 (see reference). Figure 3 and Figure 4 It is a concentric cylindrical shape. Specifically, the housing section 211 is formed into a cylindrical shape. The toner for replenishment is stored inside the housing section 211.

[0058] In the toner container 200, the container body 201 is configured to rotate about the rotation axis 203. A protrusion 211A (see reference) is provided on the inner periphery of the receiving portion 211 in a spiral shape along the rotation axis 203. Figure 4 ).exist Figure 4 The text indicates a spiral-shaped recess formed on the outer periphery of the receiving portion 211, corresponding to the protrusion 211A. The receiving portion 211 has a spiral-shaped protrusion 211A formed inside, and extends in a first direction D6 (an example of a specific direction of the present invention) centered on the rotation axis 203 (see reference). Figure 2 The rotation allows the toner contained inside to be conveyed in the conveying direction D5 along the rotation axis 203.

[0059] A gripping part 212 is provided at the end of the container body 201 located on the upstream side in the conveying direction D5. The gripping part 212 is located at the insertion port 31 (see reference 31) of the toner container 200. Figure 2 and Figure 5 The part held by the user's hand when pulled forward. The toner container 200 is inserted into the insertion port 31 with the top end in the delivery direction D5 as the lead.

[0060] like Figure 4As shown, the gripping part 212 protrudes from the end face 211B on the upstream side of the receiving part 211 in the conveying direction D5. Specifically, the gripping part 212 protrudes from the end face 211B in a cylindrical shape concentric with the rotation axis 203. The interior of the gripping part 212 is hollow, and the interior space is connected to the receiving part 211. The gripping part 212 contains the toner for replenishment.

[0061] The gripping portion 212 is formed such that the protruding top portion expands in a radial direction orthogonal to the rotation axis 203 than the protruding base portion. Specifically, as... Figure 4 As shown, the grip portion 212 has a small-diameter portion 221 and a large-diameter portion 222. The small-diameter portion 221 is formed on the protruding base end side of the grip portion 212. The large-diameter portion 222 is formed on the protruding tip end side of the grip portion 212. The large-diameter portion 222 is disposed adjacent to the small-diameter portion 221. The large-diameter portion 222 is larger in diameter than the small-diameter portion 221. Because the grip portion 212 is formed in this way, the user can wedge their finger into the large-diameter portion 222 and pull the toner container 200 from the insertion port 31. In addition, the grip portion 212 may also expand in stages of any order from the protruding base end to the protruding tip end. Furthermore, the grip portion 212 may also expand in a continuous radial direction from the protruding base end to the protruding tip end.

[0062] An opening 216 is provided at the downstream end of the container body 201 in the conveying direction D5. The opening 216 opens towards the conveying direction D5 along the rotation axis 203. The toner inside the container body 201 is discharged from the opening 216 into the conveying direction D5.

[0063] The connecting portion 214 extends in a cylindrical shape concentric with the rotating shaft 203 from the downstream end of the receiving portion 211 in the conveying direction D5. Specifically, as shown in... Figure 4 As shown, the connecting portion 214 is formed as a cylinder with a diameter smaller than that of the receiving portion 211. The connecting portion 214 connects the internal space of the receiving portion 211 with the opening 216. The opening 216 is formed with the same size as the downstream end of the connecting portion 214 in the conveying direction D5. It can also be said that the opening 216 is the downstream end of the connecting portion 214 in the conveying direction D5.

[0064] Gear portion 215 is provided on the outer periphery 241 of the connecting portion 214 (see reference). Figure 13 The gear section 215 receives a rotational driving force supplied from the drive section 32. The container body 201 is integrally formed with all the structures including the gear section 215. Therefore, if the gear section 215 receives a rotational driving force supplied from the drive section 32, the container body 201 rotates about the rotation axis 203.

[0065] The lid 202 is installed at the rear end of the container body 201, that is, at the opening 216. The lid 202 is shaped into a cylindrical form that is open in one direction, with dimensions that can cover a portion of the connecting portion 214 including the opening 216.

[0066] The cover portion 202 is located downstream of the opening portion 216 in the conveying direction D5, guiding the toner discharged from the opening portion 216 downwards. A guiding space 202A is formed inside the cover portion 202 to guide the toner discharged from the opening portion 216 downwards (see reference). Figure 22 The guide space 202A is formed by the inner periphery of the cover 202 and the inner wall surface opposite to the opening 216. Inside the cover 202, the gap formed between the opening 216 and the cover 202 is sealed by the sealing member 202B (see reference). Figure 22 ) Filling. An outlet 202C is formed at the bottom of the inner periphery of the cover 202 (refer to Figure 22 The toner is discharged from the outlet 202C to the outside of the cover 202.

[0067] The toner container 200 is mounted to the mounting section 30. The mounting section 30 and the toner container 200 are respectively provided. The mounting section 30 forms a receiving space for the toner container 200 extending in the front-rear direction D2 inside the housing 14. The toner container 200 is mounted in the mounting section 30 with its rotation axis 203 along the horizontal plane.

[0068] An insertion port 31 is provided on the side of the housing 14 of the image forming apparatus 100. Specifically, the insertion port 31 is provided on the front surface (front) of the housing 14. A locking frame 14A with a left-right direction D3 as its long side is provided on the front surface of the housing 14 (see reference). Figure 5 An insertion port 31 is formed on the lock frame 14A. The insertion port 31 and the mounting portion 30 are respectively provided. The insertion port 31 is located at the front end of the mounting portion 30 and communicates with the mounting portion 30. The toner container 200 is inserted into the insertion port 31.

[0069] The drive unit 32 rotates the container body 201 of the toner container 200. The drive unit 32 and the mounting unit 30 are respectively provided. The drive unit 32 is located at the rear end of the mounting unit 30 (see reference). Figure 2 ).

[0070] like Figure 6 As shown, the drive unit 32 includes a motor 41, a first gear 42, a second gear 43, a shaft 44, and a third gear 45. The first gear 42 is fixed to the drive shaft of the motor 41. The second gear 43 is fixed to one end of the shaft 44 and meshes with the first gear 42. The shaft 44 is rotatably supported by a bearing (not shown) inside the housing 14. The third gear 45 is fixed to the other end of the shaft 44 and meshes with the gear section 215 of the container body 201.

[0071] In the drive unit 32, the rotational driving force generated by the motor 41 is transmitted to the gear unit 215 via the first gear 42, the second gear 43, the shaft 44, and the third gear 45. As a result, the container body 201 rotates around the rotation shaft 203.

[0072] The locking cover 33 opens and closes the insertion port 31. The locking cover 33 and the insertion port 31 are each configured accordingly. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the lock cover 33 is located on the front side of the lock frame 14A.

[0073] like Figure 7 As shown, the lock cover 33 includes a flat plate portion 51, a bearing portion 52, and a swing shaft 53. The flat plate portion 51 functions as a cover covering the insertion port portion 31. The bearing portion 52 supports the lock cover 33 so that it can be opened and closed. The bearing portion 52 is located at the lower part of the flat plate portion 51 and is inserted through a rotation axis along the left-right direction D3. This rotation axis is fixed to the lower part of the lock frame 14A. Thus, the lock cover 33 can swing around this rotation axis and switch between a closed state (closing the insertion port portion 31) and an open state (opening the insertion port portion 31). The swing shaft 53 protrudes from the inner surface (inside) of the flat plate portion 51 along the front-back direction D2 (see reference). Figure 9 and Figure 10 ).

[0074] The locking mechanism 34 restricts the lock cover 33 from the closed state to the open state. The locking mechanism 34 and the lock cover 33 are each configured accordingly. Figure 5 As shown, the locking mechanism 34 is located on the upper part of the lock frame 14A.

[0075] like Figure 7 As shown, the locking mechanism 34 includes an arm support 61, an arm 62, an engaging portion 63, and a engaged portion 64. The arm support 61 is fixed to the upper part of the lock frame 14A. The arm 62 protrudes forward from the arm support 61. The engaging portion 63 protrudes to the left from the top of the protruding part of the arm 62. Figure 8 As shown, the engaging portion 63 has an inclined surface 63A facing downwards and forwards. The inclined surface 63A is formed inclined downwards from the front end of the engaging portion 63 toward the rear end. The engaged portion 64 is configured to swing about the swing axis 53 of the locking cover 33. The engaged portion 64 is formed to engage with the engaging portion 63. Figure 8As shown, the engaging portion 64 has an inclined surface 64A. When the cover 33 is in the closed state, the inclined surface 64A faces upwards and backwards. When the cover 33 transitions from the open state to the closed state, the inclined surface 64A contacts the inclined surface 63A of the engaging portion 63, causing the engaging portion 64 to swing downwards. As a result, the engaging portion 64 is guided towards the rear of the engaging portion 63, and the engaging portion 63 engages with the engaging portion 64. The engagement between the engaging portion 63 and the engaging portion 64 restricts the transition of the cover 33 from the closed state to the open state.

[0076] The unlocking part 35 releases the restriction imposed by the locking mechanism 34 on the state transition of the lock cover 33. The unlocking part 35 and the locking mechanism 34 are each provided correspondingly. The unlocking part 35 is provided on the inner surface (inside) of the flat plate portion 51 of the lock cover 33.

[0077] like Figure 7 and Figure 9 As shown, the unlocking part 35 includes a first lever part 71 and a second lever part 72. The first lever part 71 extends from a swing axis 53 (see reference 203) parallel to the rotation axis 203. Figure 9 It extends towards the rotation axis 203, and the extended base end is pivotally supported by the swing axis 53. For example... Figure 9 As shown, the first lever portion 71 extends from the swing shaft 53 toward the grip portion 212. Figure 9 As shown, the first rod portion 71 includes: a bearing portion 71A, through which the swing shaft 53 passes; an extension portion 71B, extending from the bearing portion 71A in a direction orthogonal to the swing shaft 53; and a pressing portion 71C, disposed to the left of the extension portion 71B. The second rod portion 72 is configured to swing about the swing shaft 53 and support the engaged portion 64. The second rod portion 72 is disposed between the first rod portion 71 and the inner surface (inside) of the flat plate portion 51. Figure 9 As shown, the second rod portion 72 includes: a bearing portion 72A, which is inserted through the swing shaft 53; a support portion 72B, which extends to the right from the bearing portion 72A and supports the engaged portion 64; and a pressed portion 72C, which extends to the left from the bearing portion 72A.

[0078] Unlocking part 35 is moved by the first lever part 71 in a second direction D7 opposite to the first direction D6 (see reference). Figure 9 The lock mechanism 34 swings to the side, thereby releasing the restriction on the state transition of the lock cover 33.

[0079] Specifically, the extension 71B of the first rod 71 is configured to contact the grip 212 of the toner container 200 mounted on the mounting portion 30. If the container body 201 rotates in the second direction D7, the first rod 71 contacts the grip 212 and swings in the second direction D7. As a result, the pressing portion 71C of the first rod 71 presses the pressed portion 72C of the second rod 72 upwards, and the supporting portion 72B and the engaged portion 64 of the second rod 72 swing downwards, thereby releasing the engagement between the engaged portion 63 and the engaged portion 64. That is, the lock caused by the locking mechanism 34 is released. Furthermore, when the container body 201 rotates in the first direction D6, the first rod 71 contacts the grip 212 and swings in the first direction D6, but the second rod 72 does not move in conjunction with the swing of the first rod 71. Therefore, even if the container body 201 rotates in the first direction D6, the lock caused by the locking mechanism 34 will not be released.

[0080] However, as a related technology, an image forming apparatus is known to have a protrusion provided on the outer peripheral surface of the holding portion 212, which protrudes outward from the outer peripheral surface in a radial direction, rotates integrally with the receiving portion 211, and contacts the first rod portion 71.

[0081] However, in the image forming apparatus of the above-described correlation technology, since the protrusion protrudes from the outer periphery of the holding portion 212 toward the radially outer side, a collision sound is generated when the protrusion contacts the first rod portion 71.

[0082] In this regard, the image forming apparatus 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention, as described below, can suppress the collision noise generated when the toner container 200 is driven.

[0083] [Structure of container body 201]

[0084] The following is for reference Figures 11-23 Description of container body 201.

[0085] The gripping part 212 has a contact part 224, which rotates integrally with the receiving part 211 and contacts the first rod part 71. The contact part 224 is provided on the outer periphery of the gripping part 212.

[0086] Specifically, the contact portion 224 has a curved surface 224A, which extends from a reference circle 223 concentric with the rotation axis 203 and not intersecting with the first rod portion 71 (see reference). Figure 9 and Figure 12 The first position P1 on ) (refer to) Figure 12 The second position P2 on the reference circle 223, which is opposite to the first position P1 across the rotation axis 203 (refer to...) Figure 12It passes through the outside of the reference circle 223 and bends. The bent surface 224A is formed in a way that intersects with the first rod portion 71, that is, in a way that it can contact the first rod portion 71.

[0087] like Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, the large-diameter portion 222 of the gripping portion 212 is formed as an elliptical cylinder concentric with the rotation axis 203. The contact portion 224 is a bulge extending from the reference circle 223 contained in the large-diameter portion 222. That is, a pair of contact portions 224 facing each other across the rotation axis 203 are provided in the large-diameter portion 222. In addition, the small-diameter portion 221 of the gripping portion 212 is also formed as an elliptical cylinder, just like the large-diameter portion 222.

[0088] By providing the contact portion 224 described above, the contact surface between the contact portion 224 and the first rod portion 71, located on the outer periphery of the grip portion 212, can be flattened as much as possible. This suppresses the collision noise generated when the contact portion 224 contacts the first rod portion 71. Therefore, according to the image forming apparatus 100, the collision noise generated during the driving of the toner container 200 can be suppressed.

[0089] Furthermore, the number of contact portions 224 provided on the outer periphery of the grip portion 212 may be one or more. In this case, the small-diameter portion 221 may be formed with the same shape as the large-diameter portion 222 containing the contact portions 224, or it may be formed as a cylinder. Moreover, the grip portion 212 is formed such that its radial dimension does not expand from the protruding base end to the protruding tip end. Additionally, the contact portions 224 may also be provided on the outer periphery of the receiving portion 211.

[0090] However, as a related technology, a developer container is known as follows: the end of the receiving part 211 located downstream of the transport direction D5 is formed in a way that the front end is tapered and connected to the connecting part 214, and the protrusion 211A is formed along the transport direction D5 to the connection part with the connecting part 214, thereby guiding the toner in the receiving part 211 to the connecting part 214.

[0091] However, in the developer container of the aforementioned related technology, the toner delivery force provided by the protrusion 211A formed in the connecting portion is weak, so toner remains in the connecting portion 214 when the container is replaced.

[0092] Furthermore, even without a structure for supplying toner to the connecting portion 214, toner residue remains in the connecting portion 214 when the developer container is replaced.

[0093] In this regard, the image forming apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention, as described below, can reduce the amount of toner remaining in the toner container 200 when it is replaced.

[0094] Specifically, such as Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, a suction section 231 and a guide section 234 are provided at the downstream end of the receiving section 211 in the conveying direction D5. Furthermore, the inner periphery of the connecting section 214 is formed into a conical shape that expands radially along the conveying direction D5 (see reference). Figure 21 These features will be explained in turn below.

[0095] The suction section 231 is the downstream end of the receiving section 211 in the conveying direction D5, and has a suction surface 231A (see reference) facing the first direction D6 further outward than the connecting section 214 in the radial direction. Figure 14 and Figure 15 The suction unit 231 draws in the toner that contacts the suction surface 231A according to the rotation of the receiving unit 211 in the first direction D6. Additionally, in Figure 15 In the middle, the end 242A of the inner peripheral portion 242 of the connecting portion 214 on the upstream side of the conveying direction D5 is indicated by a dashed line.

[0096] like Figure 14 As shown, the absorption surface 231A is formed inclined upstream of the first direction D6 along the conveying direction D5. As a result, the toner absorbed by the absorption surface 231A is guided downstream of the conveying direction D5.

[0097] The suction section 231 has a wall portion 231B, which is erected in the first direction D6 at the end downstream of the suction surface 231A in the conveying direction D5. The radially inner end of the wall portion 231B is more inclined toward the conveying direction D5 than the radially outer end (see reference). Figure 14 and Figure 16 The wall portion 231B guides the toner drawn by the drawing surface 231A toward the radially inward side, i.e., the connecting portion 214 side.

[0098] The guide section 234 guides the toner drawn by the extraction section 231 toward the connecting section 214. Specifically, the guide section 234 guides the toner that slides down from the extraction surface 231A, which is inclined downward toward the radial direction, as the receiving section 211 rotates in the first direction D6, toward the connecting section 214.

[0099] like Figures 13-16 As shown, the guide portion 234 is continuously disposed on the inner side of the draw-in portion 231A and the inner peripheral surface of the connecting portion 214, which is further radially inner than the draw-in portion 231.

[0100] like Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, the guide portion 234 is formed obliquely along the inner circumferential surface of the connecting portion 214 from the end of the radially inner side of the absorbing surface 231A.

[0101] like Figure 16 As shown, the guide portion 234 is formed from the upstream end of the conveying direction D5 of the suction surface 231A toward the connecting portion 214 in an end-expanding manner.

[0102] The receiving section 211 has a pair of suction sections 231 facing each other across the rotation axis 203 (see reference). Figure 15 The first suction section 232 of the pair of suction sections 231 is continuously disposed at the downstream end of the protrusion 211A in the conveying direction D5 (see reference). Figure 14 Furthermore, the second extraction section 233 of the pair of extraction sections 231 is discontinuous with the protrusion 211A of the receiving section 211 (see reference). Figure 13 ).

[0103] In addition, the containment section 211 has a pair of guide sections 234 corresponding to the pair of extraction sections 231 (see reference). Figure 15 The first guide portion 235 of the pair of guide portions 234 is provided corresponding to the first suction portion 232. In addition, the second guide portion 236 of the pair of guide portions 234 is provided corresponding to the second suction portion 233.

[0104] By providing the suction section 231 and guide section 234 described above, the toner in the receiving section 211 can slide down to the connecting section 214 from a position higher than the rotation shaft 203. Therefore, compared to a structure that uses a protrusion 211A formed to the connection section with the connecting section 214 to convey the toner to the connecting section 214, a stronger conveying force can be used to convey the toner to the connecting section 214. Consequently, the amount of toner remaining in the toner container 200 when it is replaced can be reduced.

[0105] Alternatively, the number of suction sections 231 provided in the containment section 211 can be three or more. In this case, the guide section 234 can be set to correspond to the number of suction sections 231. Furthermore, the suction section 231 provided in the containment section 211 can be any one of the first suction section 232 and the second suction section 233.

[0106] Furthermore, the guide portion 234 may be formed by extending downstream of the conveying direction D5 from the end of the suction surface 231A towards the connecting portion 214 in an end-expanding manner. Additionally, the end of the wall portion 231B located radially inner may not be inclined further towards the conveying direction D5 than the end located radially outer. Furthermore, the suction surface 231A may not be inclined upstream of the first direction D6 along the conveying direction D5.

[0107] like Figure 21As shown, the inner peripheral portion 242 of the connecting portion 214 is inclined outward along the conveying direction D5 at a specific angle Z1. For example, the specific angle Z1 is an angle arbitrarily set within a range up to 10 degrees.

[0108] Furthermore, the connecting portion 214 has a protrusion 243 formed along the rotation axis 203 in the inner peripheral portion 242 (see reference). Figure 18 ).

[0109] like Figure 18 and Figure 19 As shown, six protruding strips 243 are provided at intervals along the inner periphery of the inner periphery 242.

[0110] like Figure 18 As shown, the protruding part 243 extends from the upstream end 242A of the inner peripheral part 242 in the conveying direction D5 to the downstream end, i.e., the opening 216.

[0111] like Figure 19 As shown, the protrusion 243 extends from the inner circumferential surface of the connecting portion 214 into the conveying direction D5, which intersects the inner circumferential surface. That is, the protrusion 243 is located further outward in the radial direction than the end portion 242A upstream of the conveying direction D5 in the inner circumferential portion 242. For example, the top of the protrusion 243 is formed along a straight line passing through the end portion 242A and parallel to the rotation axis 203 (see reference). Figure 19 In this case, the amount of protrusion of the protrusion 243 from the inner peripheral portion 242 gradually increases along the conveying direction D5. This avoids the formation of a step between the upstream end of the protrusion 243 and the inner peripheral portion 242 in the conveying direction D5. That is, it avoids this step from obstructing the conveying of the toner.

[0112] like Figure 19 As shown, the protruding part 243 has a wall surface 243A facing the downstream side in the first direction D6. The wall surface 243A absorbs the toner that contacts the receiving part 211 in the first direction D6 and causes it to slide downward.

[0113] like Figure 19 As shown, the protruding tip of the protruding portion 243 is formed in a claw shape facing downstream of the first direction D6. That is, the protruding portion 243 has an inclined surface that slopes inward from the radially inner end of the wall surface 243A toward the upstream side of the first direction D6 toward the inner peripheral portion 242. As a result, compared to a structure in which the protruding portion 243 has both the wall surface 243A and the wall surface facing upstream of the first direction D6, the size of the protruding portion 243 can be reduced.

[0114] Because of the inner peripheral portion 242 described above, the toner in the connecting portion 214 can slide downstream in the conveying direction D5. Furthermore, the protruding portion 243 picks up the toner and drops it, and the dropping toner comes into contact with the inner peripheral portion 242, thereby converting the energy of the drop into a conveying force in the conveying direction D5 and imparting it to the toner.

[0115] Furthermore, the protrusion 243 can be provided in any section from the end 242A of the inner peripheral portion 242 located upstream in the conveying direction D5 to the opening 216. Additionally, the protrusion 243 can be provided with a constant amount of protrusion from the inner peripheral portion 242 and extend along the conveying direction D5. Furthermore, the protrusion 243 can be of any shape as long as it is formed along the rotation axis 203 in the inner peripheral portion 242. Furthermore, the number of protrusions 243 provided in the inner peripheral portion 242 can be any number, including zero.

[0116] However, as a correlation technique, the following image forming apparatus is known: in order to suppress adhesion to the cover 202 (refer to...) Figure 22 The solidification of the toner is achieved by a stirring component that extends from the container body 201 beyond the opening 216 and downstream in the conveying direction D5.

[0117] However, in the image forming apparatus of the aforementioned related technology, the container body 201 and the stirring member are composed of separate components, and during the manufacturing of the developer container, the time required to install the stirring member onto the container body 201 occurs.

[0118] In this regard, the image forming apparatus 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention, as described below, can reduce the time spent in manufacturing the toner container 200.

[0119] like Figure 17 As shown, the container body 201 has an extension 217.

[0120] The extension 217 is integrally formed with the container body 201. The extension 217 extends beyond the opening 216 from inside the container body 201 and extends downstream in the conveying direction D5.

[0121] like Figure 18 and Figure 19 As shown, the extension 217 is formed as a flat plate along the inner peripheral surface of the connecting portion 214, and the extension base end is supported by the inner peripheral portion 242 of the connecting portion 214. This increases the support area of ​​the inner peripheral portion 242 on the extension base end of the extension 217. Furthermore, it prevents the extension 217 from hindering the movement of toner in the connecting portion 214.

[0122] like Figure 17 and Figure 18As shown, the end face 261A of the exposed portion 261 in the extension 217, which protrudes to the outside of the container body 201, is formed inclined towards the upstream side of the first direction D6 along the conveying direction D5. For example, the exposed portion 261 is formed in a generally triangular shape when viewed from the side (see reference). Figure 17 Therefore, when the extension 217 comes into contact with the toner attached to the inner wall of the cover 202, the force applied to the extension base end of the extension 217 along the first direction D6 can be dispersed. As a result, the durability of the extension 217 can be improved.

[0123] like Figure 19 and Figure 20 As shown, the extension 217 extends from the inner circumferential surface of the connecting portion 214 in the same way as the protrusion 243, in the conveying direction D5 that intersects the inner circumferential surface. That is, the extension 217 is provided in the inner circumferential portion 242 further outward in the radial direction than the end portion 242A upstream of the conveying direction D5. For example, the upper part of the extension 217 is formed along a straight line passing through the end portion 242A and parallel to the rotation axis 203 (see reference). Figure 19 Furthermore, the extension 217 extends from the opening 216 downstream in the conveying direction D5 and has a predetermined thickness in a direction orthogonal to the rotation axis 203 (see reference). Figure 19 and Figure 20 Therefore, it is possible to avoid the formation of a step between the upstream end of the extension 217 in the conveying direction D5 and the inner peripheral portion 242. That is, it is possible to avoid this step from becoming an obstacle to the conveying of the toner.

[0124] By incorporating the extension 217 described above, the time required for installing the extension 217 during the manufacture of the toner container 200 can be eliminated. Therefore, the time required for manufacturing the toner container 200 can be reduced.

[0125] Alternatively, the extension 217 may be provided to extend along the conveying direction D5 with a constant protrusion from the inner peripheral portion 242. Furthermore, the exposed portion 261 may be formed in any shape. Additionally, the extension 217 may be formed in a shape different from the flat plate shape along the inner peripheral surface of the connecting portion 214.

[0126] However, in conventional image forming apparatuses, heat generated by the driving of the apparatus body is sometimes transferred to the housing 211 via the gear section 215. In this case, the toner inside the housing 211 is heated, and the toner tends to solidify.

[0127] In this regard, the image forming apparatus 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention, as described below, can suppress heat transfer from the main body side via the gear section 215.

[0128] like Figure 21 and Figure 23 As shown, the gear part 215 includes a support part 251, a tooth part 252, and a reinforcing rib 253.

[0129] like Figure 21 and Figure 23 As shown, the support portion 251 is formed in the outer periphery 241 of the connecting portion 214 as a circular plate concentric with the rotation axis 203.

[0130] like Figure 21 and Figure 23 As shown, the tooth portion 252 is disposed along the edge of the support surface 251A of the support portion 251, which is orthogonal to the conveying direction D5. The support surface 251A is the surface of the support portion 251 located upstream of the conveying direction D5. The tooth portion 252 has: a support portion formed in an annular shape along the edge of the support surface 251A; and teeth formed on the outer peripheral surface of the support portion. The tooth portion 252 meshes with the third gear 45 of the drive portion 32.

[0131] like Figure 21 and Figure 23 As shown, the reinforcing rib 253 extends radially from the outer periphery 241 of the connecting portion 214 on the support surface 251A. For example... Figure 21 As shown, the reinforcing rib 253 is formed inclined outward along the conveying direction D5 in the radial direction. Figure 23 As shown, the extended end of the reinforcing rib 253 does not reach the tooth portion 252. Therefore, heat can be prevented from being transferred from the tooth portion 252 to the connecting portion 214 via the reinforcing rib 253 without passing through the support portion 251.

[0132] like Figure 23 As shown, the gear portion 215 has eight reinforcing ribs 253 arranged at equal intervals along the outer peripheral surface of the connecting portion 214. Furthermore, the number of reinforcing ribs 253 provided in the gear portion 215 can be arbitrary.

[0133] Here, as Figure 12 , Figure 14 ,and Figure 19 As shown, the gear portion 215 is configured with a tip circle diameter larger than the diameter of the receiving portion 211. Therefore, compared to a structure where the tip circle diameter is smaller than the diameter of the receiving portion 211, the gear portion 215 can be positioned on the path of the airflow generated along the conveying direction D5 due to the rotation of the receiving portion 211, allowing the gear portion 215 to be cooled by this airflow. Furthermore, the airflow flows downstream of the gear portion 215 in the conveying direction D5, suppressing undesirable conditions such as toner leakage and splashing from the cover portion 202.

[0134] Furthermore, in the gear section 215, the teeth 252 and reinforcing ribs 253 are provided on the support surface 251A, which is the upstream side of the support section 251 in the conveying direction D5. Therefore, compared to a structure where the teeth 252 and reinforcing ribs 253 are provided on the downstream side of the support section 251 in the conveying direction D5, the contact area between the airflow and the gear section 215 can be increased. That is, the cooling effect of the airflow on the gear section 215 can be improved. In addition, the airflow reaching the support surface 251A can be guided along the shape of the gear section 215 to the opposite side of the conveying direction D5, and the flow of the airflow downstream of the gear section 215 in the conveying direction D5 can be more effectively suppressed.

[0135] Because of the gear section 215 described above, heat transfer from the main body side via the gear section 215 can be suppressed.

[0136] Alternatively, the gear portion 215 may be configured with a tooth tip circle diameter smaller than the diameter of the receiving portion 211. Furthermore, the support surface 251A may be the surface of the support portion 251 located downstream of the conveying direction D5. Additionally, the reinforcing rib 253 may be provided on the support surface 251A extending radially from the tooth portion 252. Furthermore, the reinforcing rib 253 may be provided on both sides of the tooth portion 252 and the outer periphery 241 of the connecting portion 214.

Claims

1. A developer container, used in an orientation where its rotation axis is along a horizontal plane, characterized in that, include: The container body has an opening that opens in the conveying direction along the rotation axis, and the developer contained inside is conveyed in the conveying direction and discharged from the opening by rotating in a specific direction about the rotation axis; A guide section, located downstream of the opening in the transport direction, guides the developer discharged from the opening downwards. as well as An extension, integrally formed with the container body, extends from within the container body beyond the opening towards the downstream side in the conveying direction. The container body includes: The receiving section, by rotating in the specific direction, conveys the developer contained inside to the delivery direction; as well as A connecting portion is provided in a cylindrical shape, concentric with the rotation axis, extending from the downstream end of the receiving portion in the conveying direction, so that the opening communicates with the receiving portion. The extension is formed as a flat plate along the inner circumferential surface of the connecting portion, and the base end of the extension is supported by the inner circumferential portion of the connecting portion. The end face of the exposed portion of the extension, which protrudes to the outside of the container body, is inclined upstream in the specific direction along the conveying direction. The exposed portion protrudes from the opening in a triangular shape.

2. The developer container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner periphery of the connecting portion is formed into a cone shape that expands radially along the conveying direction.

3. The developer container according to claim 2, characterized in that, The extension extends from the inner periphery of the connecting portion toward the conveying direction.

4. An image forming apparatus, characterized in that, include: The developer container as described in claim 1; as well as The image forming unit uses the developer supplied from the developer container to form an image.

Images