imaging device

Abstract

The present application relates to an image forming apparatus. The invention has: a developer container (32) to which a replenishment container (40) is attachable and detachable, and which has a housing portion (36) that houses a developer to be carried on a developer carrying member (31), and a replenishing port (32a) that replenishes the developer from the replenishment container to the housing portion; a transfer device (12) that transfers a developer image on an image carrying member (21) to a recording material; a support tray (82) that has a support surface (81) that supports the recording material; and a discharge device (80) that discharges the recording material on which the developer image has been transferred to the support surface (81); the support tray (82) has an opening portion (82a) that is opened so that the replenishing port (32a) is exposed from the support surface (81); and a shutter member (83) that is configured to be movable between a closed position in which the shutter member covers the replenishing port (32a) to constitute a part of the support surface (81) and an open position in which the replenishing port is exposed is provided.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of invention patent application 202080020986.2 entitled "Imaging Device", filed on March 13, 2020. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to an imaging apparatus for forming images on recording materials. Background Technology

[0003] Generally, electrophotographic imaging devices form images by transferring a toner image formed on the surface of a photosensitive drum onto a transfer material used as a transfer medium. Additionally, as a method of developer replenishment, known methods include the processing cartridge method and the toner replenishment method. The processing cartridge method integrates the photosensitive drum and the developer container into a processing cartridge, and replaces the processing cartridge with a new one when the developer is depleted.

[0004] In contrast, toner replenishment involves adding new toner to the developer container when the toner runs out. Conventionally, toner-replenishing single-component developing apparatuses have been proposed, in which a toner supply cassette capable of replenishing toner is connected to a toner transport path (see Patent Document 1). The toner stored in the toner supply cassette is transported to the toner transport path via a conveying screw.

[0005] Reference List

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] [Patent Document 1]: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. H08-30084 Summary of the Invention

[0008] Technical issues

[0009] In recent years, users have been expecting various methods for imaging equipment, such as the aforementioned processing box method and toner replenishment method.

[0010] Solution to the problem

[0011] According to one aspect of the present invention, an imaging apparatus is provided, wherein a replenishment container for containing developer is attachable to and detachable from the imaging apparatus, the imaging apparatus being configured to form a developer image on a recording material, the imaging apparatus comprising: an image carrier member configured to rotate while carrying the developer image; a developer carrier member configured to carry developer and supply developer to the image carrier member; and a developer container, wherein a replenishment container is attachable to and detachable from the developer container for replenishment, the developer container comprising: a receiving portion configured to receive developer to be carried on the developer carrier member; and a replenishment port for replenishment from the developer carrier member. A filling container replenishes developer to a receiving portion; a transfer device is configured to transfer a developer image on an image-carrying member onto recording material; a support tray includes a support surface on which the recording material is supported; and a discharge device is configured to discharge the recording material on which the developer image has been transferred onto the support surface; wherein the support tray has an opening that is open to expose a replenishment port through the support surface; and wherein an opening / closing member is provided that is movable between a closed position and an open position, wherein in the closed position the opening / closing member covers the replenishment port and is part of the support surface, and in the open position the replenishment port is exposed.

[0012] Invention Effects

[0013] According to the present invention, an imaging device may be provided.

[0014] Other features and advantages of the invention will be revealed by the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the same or similar elements are indicated by the same reference numerals in the drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1A This is a cross-sectional view of the imaging device according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 1B It is a perspective view of the imaging device.

[0017] Figure 2A This is a cross-sectional view of the imaging device.

[0018] Figure 2B This is a perspective view of the imaging device with the top cover open.

[0019] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the imaging device with the processing box disassembled.

[0020] Figure 4A This is a perspective view of the imaging device with the reading device's pressure plate closed.

[0021] Figure 4B This is a perspective view of the imaging device with the pressure plate open.

[0022] Figure 4C This is a perspective view of the imaging device with the reading device open.

[0023] Figure 5A This is a perspective view of the developer container and toner packet.

[0024] Figure 5B This is a front view of the developer container and toner packet.

[0025] Figure 6A It is along Figure 5B The sectional view taken from 6A-6A.

[0026] Figure 6B It is along Figure 5B The sectional view taken from section 6B-6B.

[0027] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the toner packet.

[0028] Figure 8A This is a front view of the toner packet.

[0029] Figure 8B This is a front view of the first variant of the toner packet.

[0030] Figure 8C This is a front view of the second variant of the toner packet.

[0031] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the first and second toner remaining amount sensors.

[0032] Figure 10 This is a circuit diagram of the first and second toner remaining amount sensors.

[0033] Figure 11A This is a cross-sectional view of the developer container when the amount of toner remaining is small.

[0034] Figure 11B This is a cross-sectional view of the developer container when there is a large amount of toner remaining.

[0035] Figure 12 This is a block diagram showing the control system of the imaging device.

[0036] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating the toner replenishment process.

[0037] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating the process for detecting and processing the remaining amount of toner.

[0038] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of the operating section.

[0039] Figure 16A This is a cross-sectional view showing the toner packet attached to the refill port.

[0040] Figure 16B It is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which the toner has begun to fall from the toner packet.

[0041] Figure 16C It is a cross-sectional view showing the state of the developer container after all the toner in the toner packet has been replenished.

[0042] Figure 17A This is a perspective view of the toner remaining panel when the toner remaining level is low.

[0043] Figure 17B This is a perspective view of the toner remaining panel with the toner remaining at a medium level.

[0044] Figure 17C This is a perspective view of the toner remaining panel when the toner remaining level is at full capacity.

[0045] Figure 18A This is a graph showing the relationship between the developer container capacity and the level of toner remaining.

[0046] Figure 18B This is a graph showing the amount of toner remaining when toner is replenished from a small-capacity toner packet.

[0047] Figure 18C This is a graph showing the amount of toner remaining when toner is replenished from a large-capacity toner packet.

[0048] Figure 19A This is a perspective view of the first variant of the imaging device.

[0049] Figure 19B This is a perspective view of a second variant of the imaging device.

[0050] Figure 19C This is a perspective view of the third variant of the imaging device.

[0051] Figure 20A This is a perspective view of the fourth variant of the imaging device.

[0052] Figure 20B This is a perspective view of the fifth variant of the imaging device.

[0053] Figure 21A This is a perspective view of the imaging device according to the second embodiment.

[0054] Figure 21B This is a cross-sectional view of the imaging device.

[0055] Figure 22AThis is a perspective view of a variant of the imaging device according to the second embodiment.

[0056] Figure 22B This is a cross-sectional view of a variant of the imaging device according to the second embodiment.

[0057] Figure 23A This is a cross-sectional view of the imaging device according to the third embodiment.

[0058] Figure 23B This is a cross-sectional view of the imaging device with the processing box pulled out.

[0059] Figure 24 This is a cross-sectional view showing the toner packet attached to the processing box that has been pulled out.

[0060] Figure 25A This is a perspective view of the imaging device with the processing box pulled out.

[0061] Figure 25B This is a perspective view showing the toner packet attached to the already pulled-out processing box.

[0062] Figure 26 This is a perspective view of a developer container according to a variant of the first embodiment.

[0063] Figure 27 This is a perspective view of the stirring component according to the first embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0064] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0065] <First Embodiment>

[0066] Figure 1A This is a schematic diagram illustrating the construction of the imaging device 1 according to the first embodiment. The imaging device 1 is a monochrome printer that forms an image on a recording material based on image information input from an external device. Examples of recording materials include various sheet materials of different materials, such as paper (e.g., plain paper and cardboard), plastic film (e.g., sheets used for overhead projectors), irregularly shaped sheets (e.g., envelopes and index paper), and cloth.

[0067] [Overall Structure]

[0068] like Figure 1A and Figure 1BAs shown, the imaging device 1 includes: a printer body 100, serving as the main body of the device; a reading device 200, which is closably supported by the printer body 100; and an operating unit 300, attached to the outer surface of the printer body 100. The printer body 100 includes: an imaging unit 10 for forming a toner image on recording material; a feed unit 60 for feeding recording material to the imaging unit 10; a fixing unit 70 for fixing the toner image formed by the imaging unit 10 onto the recording material; and an ejector roller pair 80.

[0069] The imaging unit 10 includes a scanning unit 11, an electrophotographic processing cartridge 20, and a transfer roller 12. The transfer roller 12 transfers the toner image (as a developer image) formed on the photosensitive drum 21 of the processing cartridge 20 onto the recording material. Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, the processing box 20 includes: a photosensitive drum 21; a charging roller 22 disposed near the photosensitive drum 21; and a developing device 30, including a pre-exposure device 23 and a developing roller 31.

[0070] The photosensitive drum 21 is a photosensitive element formed in a cylindrical shape. In this embodiment, the photosensitive drum 21 includes a drum-shaped substrate made of aluminum and a photosensitive layer formed on the drum-shaped substrate by an organic photosensitive element that can carry a negative charge. In addition, the photosensitive drum 21, which serves as an image carrying member, is driven by a motor to rotate at a predetermined processing speed along a predetermined direction (clockwise in the figure).

[0071] The charging roller 22 contacts the photosensitive drum 21 with a predetermined pressure to form a charging section. Furthermore, a desired charging voltage is applied by a high-voltage charging power supply, thus uniformly charging the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 to a predetermined potential. In this embodiment, the photosensitive drum 21 is charged to a negative polarity by the charging roller 22. The pre-exposure apparatus 23 removes the surface potential of the photosensitive drum 21 before it enters the charging section, so as to ensure stable discharge within the charging section.

[0072] By using a multi-faceted mirror to irradiate the photosensitive drum 21 with a laser corresponding to the information input from an external device or reading device 200, the scanning unit 11, which serves as an exposure device, exposes the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 in a scanning manner. Due to this exposure, an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image information is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 21. Note that the scanning unit 11 is not limited to a laser scanning device; for example, an LED exposure device may also be used, which includes an LED array in which multiple LEDs are arranged longitudinally along the photosensitive drum 21.

[0073] The developing apparatus 30 includes: a developing roller 31, serving as a developer carrier; a developer container 32, serving as a frame member of the developing apparatus 30; and a supply roller 33, for supplying developer to the developing roller 31. The developing roller 31 and the supply roller 33 are rotatably supported by the developer container 32. Furthermore, the developing roller 31 is disposed at the opening of the developer container 32, opposite to the photosensitive drum 21. The supply roller 33 rotatably contacts the developing roller 31, applying toner (serving as developer) contained in the developer container 32 onto the surface of the developing roller 31 via the supply roller 33. Note that the supply roller 33 is not essential; any configuration sufficient to supply enough toner to the developing roller 31 is acceptable.

[0074] In the developing apparatus 30 of this embodiment, contact developing is used. That is, the toner layer carried on the developing roller 31 contacts the photosensitive drum 21 in the developing section (developing area) where the photosensitive drum 21 and the developing roller 31 are positioned opposite each other. A developing voltage is applied to the developing roller 31 by a high-voltage developing power supply. Under the developing voltage, the toner carried on the developing roller 31 is transferred from the developing roller 31 to the drum surface according to the surface potential distribution of the photosensitive drum 21, thereby developing the electrostatic latent image into a toner image. Note that in this embodiment, a reverse developing method is used. That is, the surface area of ​​the photosensitive drum 21 to which the toner is attached is charged in the charging step, exposed in the exposure step, and therefore has a reduced charge amount, thus forming a toner image.

[0075] In this embodiment, a toner with a 6 μm particle size and a negative polarity with normal charging polarity is used. For example, a polymer toner produced by polymerization is used as the toner in this embodiment. Furthermore, the toner in this embodiment is a so-called non-magnetic single-component developer that does not contain magnetic components and is mainly supported on the developing roller 31 by intermolecular forces or electrostatic forces (mirror forces). However, single-component developers containing magnetic components can be used. In some cases, the single-component developer contains additives (e.g., wax and fine silica particles) for adjusting the toner's flowability and charge, in addition to toner particles. Furthermore, a two-component developer composed of a non-magnetic toner and a magnetic carrier can be used as the developer. When using a magnetic developer, for example, a cylindrical developing sleeve with magnets provided on its inner circumferential surface is used as the developer carrier.

[0076] A stirring element 34, serving as a stirring device, is disposed inside the developer container 32. It is operated by a motor M1 (see...). Figure 12The stirring member 34 is pivoted to drive the agitator, thereby agitating the toner in the developer container 32 and delivering (transferring) the toner to the developing roller 31 and the supply roller 33. Additionally, the agitator 34 has the function of circulating toner not used for development and stripped from the developing roller 31 within the developer container to ensure uniform toner distribution within the container. Note that the agitator 34 is not limited to a pivoting type. For example, a oscillating agitator may be used. Furthermore, another agitator may be provided in addition to the agitator 34.

[0077] Furthermore, a developing blade 35 for controlling the amount of toner carried on the developing roller 31 is provided at the opening of the developing roller 31 in the developing agent container 32. As the developing roller 31 rotates, the toner supplied to the surface of the developing roller 31 passes through the opposing portion between the developing roller 31 and the developing blade 35, thereby forming a uniform thin layer and becoming negatively charged through frictional charging.

[0078] like Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, the feed section 60 includes a front door 61, a tray section 62, an inner plate 63, a tray spring 64, and a pickup roller 65, all of which are openable and closable and supported by the printer body 100. The tray section 62 forms the bottom surface of the recording material receiving space and is exposed by opening the front door 61; the inner plate 63 is supported by the tray section 62 and can rise and fall. The tray spring 64 pushes the inner plate 63 upward and presses the recording material P supported by the inner plate 63 against the pickup roller 65. Note that the front door 61 closes the recording material receiving space when closed relative to the printer body 100, and supports the recording material P together with the tray section 62 and the inner plate 63 when open relative to the printer body 100.

[0079] The fixing unit 70 is a thermal fixing type, which performs image fixing processing by heating and melting the toner on the recording material. The fixing unit 70 includes: a fixing film 71; a fixing heater, such as a ceramic heater, for heating the fixing film 71; a thermistor for measuring the temperature of the fixing heater; and a pressure roller 72 for pressing against the fixing film 71.

[0080] Next, the imaging operation of imaging device 1 will be described. When an imaging command is input to imaging device 1, the imaging unit 10 begins imaging processing based on image information input from an external computer connected to imaging device 1 or from the reading device 200. The scanning unit 11 irradiates a laser toward the photosensitive drum 21 based on the input image information. At this time, the photosensitive drum 21 has been charged by the charging roller 22, and an electrostatic latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum 21 due to laser irradiation. Then, the electrostatic latent image is developed by the developing roller 31, thereby forming a toner image on the photosensitive drum 21.

[0081] In parallel with the imaging process described above, the pickup roller 65 of the feed unit 60 delivers the recording material P supported by the front door 61, the tray section 62, and the inner plate 63. The recording material P is fed by the pickup roller 65 to the alignment roller pair 15, and the skewness of the recording material P is corrected by the recording material abutting against the clamping part of the alignment roller pair 15. Then, the alignment roller pair 15 is driven in accordance with the toner image transfer timing, and the alignment roller pair 15 transfers the recording material P to the transfer clamping part formed by the transfer roller 12 and the photosensitive drum 21.

[0082] A transfer voltage is applied from a high-voltage transfer power supply to the transfer roller 12, which serves as both a transfer device and a transfer section, and the toner image carried on the photosensitive drum 21 is transferred onto the recording material P conveyed by the alignment roller pair 15. The recording material P, with the toner image already transferred, is conveyed to the fixing section 70, and the toner image is heated and pressurized as it passes through the clamping portion between the fixing film 71 and the pressure roller 72 in the fixing section 70. As a result, the toner particles melt and then adhere, thereby fixing the toner image onto the recording material P. The recording material P, which has passed through the fixing section 70, is discharged to the outside of the imaging device 1 (outside the device) by the discharge roller pair 80, which serves as both a discharge device and a discharge section, and the recording material P is supported on the discharge tray 81, which serves as a support portion formed in the upper part of the printer body 100.

[0083] The discharge tray 81 is tilted upwards towards the downstream side of the recording material discharge direction, and the recording material discharged onto the discharge tray 81 slides downwards along the discharge tray 81, so that the rear end of the recording material is aligned with the control surface 84.

[0084] like Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown, the reading device 200 includes: a reading unit 201, which includes a reading section (not shown); and a pressure plate 202, which is closable and supported by the reading unit 201. A table glass 203 is provided on the upper surface of the reading unit 201, which transmits light emitted from the reading section, and the original document is placed on the table glass.

[0085] When the image of the original document needs to be read by the reading device 200, the user places the original document on the stage glass 203 with the pressure plate 202 open. Then, the pressure plate 202 is closed to prevent the original document from shifting on the stage glass 203, and the user operates the operation unit 300, for example, to output a reading command to the imaging device 1. When the reading operation begins, the reading unit in the reading unit 201 reciprocates in the sub-scanning direction (i.e., the left-right direction when viewed from the front of the operation unit 300 of the imaging device 1). While emitting light from the light-emitting unit towards the original document, the reading unit receives the light reflected from the original document through the light-receiving unit, and is able to perform photoelectric conversion to read the image of the original document. Note that the front-back direction, left-right direction, and up-down direction are defined based on the state when viewed from the front of the operation unit 300.

[0086] like Figure 2B and Figure 3 As shown, a first opening 101 that opens upwards is defined in the upper part of the printer body 100, and the first opening 101 is covered by a top cover 82. The top cover 82, which serves as a support tray, is supported so that it can be opened and closed relative to the printer body 100 about a pivot axis 82c extending in the left-right direction, and an ejection tray 81 serving as a support surface is formed on the upper surface of the top cover. When the reader 200 is open relative to the printer body 100, the top cover 82 opens from the front to the rear. Note that the reader 200 and the top cover 82 can be configured to be held in the open and closed states by a retaining mechanism (such as a hinge mechanism).

[0087] For example, if the recording material gets stuck in the transport path CP of the material fed by the pickup roller 65 due to a paper jam or other reason, the user opens the top cover 82 together with the reading device 200. Then, the user approaches the processing cartridge 20 through the first opening 101 exposed by opening the top cover 82 and pulls the processing cartridge 20 out along the cartridge guide 102. The cartridge guide 102 can accommodate a protrusion 21a provided at the axial end of the photosensitive drum 21 of the processing cartridge 20 (see...). Figure 5A Slide and guide the protrusion.

[0088] Then, since the processing cartridge 20 is pulled out through the first opening 101, space is created that allows a hand to access the transport path CP. The user can place their hand into the printer body 100 through the first opening 101, thereby accessing the jammed recording material on the transport path CP to remove the jammed recording material.

[0089] Additionally, in this embodiment, as Figure 1B and Figure 4CAs shown, the opening / closing member 83 is closable on the top cover 82. A second opening 82a, serving as an upwardly opening, is defined in the discharge tray 81 of the top cover 82. The opening / closing member 83 is configured to move between a closed position where the opening / closing member 83 covers the replenishment port 32a, preventing the toner packet 40 from being attached to the developer container 32, and an open position where the opening / closing member 83 exposes the replenishment port 32a, allowing the toner packet 40 to be attached to the developer container 32. In the closed position, the opening / closing member 83 is part of the discharge tray 81. The opening / closing member 83 and the second opening 82a are formed on the left side of the discharge tray 81. Furthermore, the opening / closing member 83 is supported by the top cover 82 and can be opened and closed about a pivot axis 83a extending in the front-rear direction. The opening / closing member is opened to the left by hooking a finger onto the opening / closing member via a groove 82b provided on the top cover 82. Depending on the shape of the top cover 82, the opening / closing member 83 is formed in an approximately L-shape.

[0090] Opening the second opening 82a of the discharge tray 81 exposes the replenishment port 32a for toner replenishment, which is defined in the upper part of the developer container 32. The user can access the replenishment port 32a by opening the opening / closing member 83 without opening the top cover 82. Note that in this embodiment, the method employed is that the user accesses the toner packet 40 filled with toner for replenishment (see [link to toner refill]) while the developing device 30 is still attached to the imaging device 1. Figure 1A and Figure 1B Toner is replenished to the developing unit 30 (direct replenishment method). Therefore, when the remaining toner in the processing cartridge 20 is low, it is no longer necessary to remove the processing cartridge 20 from the printer body 100 and replace it with a brand new one, thus improving usability. Furthermore, toner can be replenished to the developer container 32 at a lower cost compared to replacing the entire processing cartridge 20. Note that since it is not necessary to replace individual rollers and gears, the direct replenishment method also reduces costs compared to replacing only the developing unit 30 with the processing cartridge 20. Note that the imaging device 1 and the toner pack 40 constitute the imaging system.

[0091] [Recovery of residual toner from transfer printing]

[0092] In this embodiment, a cleaner-free structure is employed, wherein residual toner that was not transferred to the recording material P but remained on the photosensitive drum 21 is recovered and reused in the developing apparatus 30. The residual toner is removed through the following process: The residual toner comprises a mixture of toner with a positive charge and toner with a negative charge but insufficient charge. After transfer, the photosensitive drum 21 is de-energized by the pre-exposure apparatus 23, causing the charging roller 22 to generate a uniform discharge, thus recharging the residual toner to a negative charge. As the photosensitive drum 21 rotates, the residual toner, recharged to a negative charge in the charging section, reaches the developing section. Then, the surface area of ​​the photosensitive drum 21 that has passed through the charging section is exposed by the scanning unit 11 while the residual toner is still attached to the surface of the photosensitive drum, thus creating an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum.

[0093] Here, the behavior of the residual toner that has reached the developing section will be described separately for the exposed and unexposed sections of the photosensitive drum 21. In the developing section, the residual toner adhering to the unexposed section of the photosensitive drum 21 is transferred to the developing roller 31 due to the potential difference between the potential (dark potential) of the unexposed section of the photosensitive drum 21 and the developing voltage, and is recovered into the developer container 32. This is because, given that the normal charging polarity of the toner is negative, the developing voltage applied to the developing roller 31 is relatively positive relative to the potential of the unexposed section. Note that the toner recovered into the developer container 32 is dispersed by being stirred together with the toner in the developer container by the stirring member 34, and is carried on the developing roller 31 for reuse in the developing process.

[0094] In contrast, the residual toner adhering to the exposure section of the photosensitive drum 21 remains on the surface of the photosensitive drum and is not transferred from the photosensitive drum 21 to the developing roller 31 in the developing section. This is because, given that the normal charging polarity of the toner is negative, the potential of the developing voltage applied to the developing roller 31 is more negative than the potential (brightness potential) of the exposure section. The residual toner remaining on the surface of the photosensitive drum moves to the transfer section along with other toner to be transferred from the developing roller 31 to the exposure section, and is transferred to the recording material P in the transfer section.

[0095] Although a cleaner-free configuration is used in this embodiment, as described above, where residual toner is recovered and reused in the developing unit 30, a conventional, known configuration where residual toner is recovered by a cleaning blade against the photosensitive drum 21 can also be used. In this case, the residual toner recovered by the cleaning blade is collected in a recovery container located separately from the developing unit 30. However, the cleaner-free configuration eliminates the need for a recovery container for recovering residual toner, thus enabling further miniaturization of the imaging device 1, and reducing printing costs through the reuse of residual toner.

[0096] [The structure of developer containers and toner packets]

[0097] Next, the construction of the developer container 32 and the toner pack 40 will be described. Figure 5A This is a perspective view of the developer container 32 and the toner packet 40, and Figure 5B This is a front view of the developer container 32 and the toner packet 40. Figure 6A It is along Figure 5B The sectional view taken from 6A-6A, and Figure 6B It is along Figure 5B The sectional view taken from section 6B-6B.

[0098] like Figures 5A to 6BAs shown, the developer container 32 includes a transfer chamber 36 housing a stirring member 34, and the transfer chamber 36, which serves as a receiving chamber for toner, extends along the entire longitudinal (left-right) length of the developer container 32. Furthermore, the transfer chamber 36 is integrally formed with a frame member that rotatably supports the developing roller 31 and the supply roller 33, and contains the developer to be carried on the developing roller 31. Additionally, the developer container 32 includes: a first protrusion 37, which protrudes upward from one longitudinal end of the transfer chamber 36 and communicates with the transfer chamber 36; and a second protrusion 38, which protrudes upward from the other longitudinal end of the transfer chamber 36. That is, the first protrusion 37 is located at one end of the developer container 32 in the direction of the rotation axis of the developing roller 31, and protrudes further towards the discharge tray 81 than the central portion of the developer container 32 in a cross direction intersecting the aforementioned rotation axis direction. The second protrusion 38 is disposed at the other end of the developer container 32 in the direction of the rotation axis of the developing roller 31, and protrudes further toward the discharge tray 81 than the central portion of the developer container 32 in the intersecting direction. In this embodiment, the first protrusion 37 is formed on the left side of the developer container 32, and the second protrusion 38 is formed on the right side of the developer container 32. An attachment portion 57 for attaching a toner pack 40 is provided at the upper end (distal end) of the first protrusion 37, and a replenishment port 32a for replenishing toner from the toner pack 40 to the transfer chamber 36 is defined in the attachment portion 57. The toner pack 40 can be attached to the attachment portion 57 while exposed to the outside of the equipment.

[0099] The developer container 32 is configured such that the toner supplied through the replenishment port 32a reaches the stirring member 34 solely by its own weight. Here, "solely by its own weight" means that even if no rotating or oscillating stirring member (transfer member) is provided between the replenishment port 32a of the developer container 32 and the stirring member 34 to transfer the toner, the toner can still reach the stirring member 34 by its own weight. In addition, in the developer container 32, the stirring member 34, which serves as a transfer member, is arranged such that the stirring member 34 is the rotating member closest to the replenishment port 32a, and the rotation of this stirring member causes the toner in the transfer chamber 36 to reach the developing roller 31 or the supply roller 33.

[0100] The first protrusion 37 and the second protrusion 38 extend upward at an angle from the transfer chamber 36 toward the front of the device. That is, the first protrusion 37 and the second protrusion 38 protrude downstream and upward toward the discharge direction of the discharge roller pair 80. Therefore, the replenishment port 32a formed in the first protrusion 37 is provided on the front side of the imaging device 1, so that the toner replenishment operation of the developer container 32 can be easily performed.

[0101] Specifically, in this embodiment, since the closable reading device 200 surrounding the rear of the device is positioned above the opening / closing member 83, the space between the replenishment port 32a and the reading device 200 can be used more efficiently by positioning the replenishment port 32a on the front of the device. Therefore, the operability of replenishing toner from the replenishment port 32a can be improved.

[0102] The upper part of the first protrusion 37 and the upper part of the second protrusion 38 are connected to each other by a handle 39 serving as a connecting part. From the scanning unit 11 (see...) Figure 1A The laser L emitted toward the photosensitive drum 21 (see...) Figure 1A The laser beam passing through the space SP is confined between the handle 39 and the transmission chamber 36.

[0103] The handle portion 39 includes a gripping portion 39a that can be hooked and held by a user's fingers, and the gripping portion 39a is formed to protrude upward from the top plate of the handle portion 39. The first protrusion 37 is formed in a hollow shape, and a refill port 32a is defined in the upper surface of the first protrusion. The refill port 32a is configured to be connected to the toner pack 40.

[0104] By providing a first protrusion 37 (with a replenishment port 32a defined at its distal end) on one longitudinal side of the developer container 32, it is ensured that the laser L emitted from the scanning unit 11 can pass through the space SP, and the imaging device 1 can be miniaturized. Furthermore, since a second protrusion 38 is provided on the other longitudinal side of the developer container 32, and a handle portion 39 is formed connecting the first protrusion 37 and the second protrusion 38 to each other, the usability of removing the processing cartridge 20 from the printer body 100 is improved. Note that the second protrusion 38 can be formed in a hollow shape like the first protrusion 37, or it can be formed in a solid shape.

[0105] Figure 26 This is a perspective view of a developer container 320 according to a variant of the first embodiment. The developer container 320 includes a protrusion 370 provided at a longitudinal end, and the protrusion 370 protrudes above the longitudinal center of the developer container 320. An attachment portion 570 for attaching a toner pack 40 is provided on the protrusion 370, and a replenishment port 320a is provided in the attachment portion 570.

[0106] Protrusion 370 and Figure 5BThe difference in the first protrusion 37 shown is that a recess 370a is provided on the protrusion 370. The recess 370a is provided on the side surface of the protrusion 370 and is recessed in the direction from the longitudinal center of the developer container 320 to the longitudinal end. In addition, the recess 370a is more recessed near the photosensitive drum 21. Here, it can be considered that when the distance between the scanning unit 11 and the developer container 320 increases, the irradiation area of ​​the laser L in the attachment direction of the toner pack 40 overlaps with the attachment portion 570 (supplementary port 320a). By providing the attachment portion 570 above the laser L in the vertical direction so that the laser L passes through the recess 370a, interference between the laser L and the developer container 320 can be avoided. Therefore, it is not necessary to move the protrusion 370 further toward the longitudinal end to avoid interference with the laser L, thus enabling miniaturization of the device.

[0107] like Figures 5A to 6B As shown, the toner pouch 40 is configured to be attachable to and detachable from the attachment portion 57 of the first protrusion 37. Furthermore, the toner pouch 40 includes: a gate member 41 disposed at the opening and openable / closable; and a plurality of (three in this embodiment) protrusions 42 formed to correspond to a plurality of (three in this embodiment) grooves 32b defined in the attachment portion 57. When the user replenishes toner to the developer container 32, the user positions the toner pouch 40 such that the protrusions 42 pass through the grooves 32b of the attachment portion 57, thus attaching the toner pouch 40 to the attachment portion 57. Additionally, when the toner pouch 40 is rotated 180° in this state, the gate member 41 of the toner pouch 40 abuts against an abutment portion (not shown) of the attachment portion 57 to rotate relative to the body of the toner pouch 40, thus opening the gate member 41. Therefore, the toner contained in the toner packet 40 falls out of the toner packet 40, and the fallen toner enters the first protrusion 37, which has a hollow shape, through the replenishment port 32a. Note that the gate member 41 may be provided on the replenishment port 32a.

[0108] The first protrusion 37 includes an inclined surface 37a located opposite the opening of the replenishment port 32a, and the inclined surface 37a slopes downward toward the transfer chamber 36. Therefore, the toner supplied through the replenishment port 32a is guided by the inclined surface 37a into the transfer chamber 36. Figure 27 This is a perspective view of the stirring component 34. (See Figure 6 and...) Figure 27 As shown, the stirring member 34 includes a stirring shaft 34a extending longitudinally and a blade portion 34b fixed to the stirring shaft 34a and extending radially outward from the stirring shaft 34a. The blade portion 34b is a flexible blade. The stirring member 34 rotates about the shaft portion 34c of the stirring shaft 34a.

[0109] As the stirring member 34 rotates, toner replenished through the replenishment port 32a located upstream of the stirring member 34 in the conveying direction is delivered to the developing roller 31 and the supply roller 33. The conveying direction of the stirring member 34 is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the developer container 32. Although the replenishment port 32a and the first protrusion 37 are located at one longitudinal end of the developer container 32, the repeated rotation of the stirring member 34 causes the toner to be distributed throughout the entire developer container 32. Note that although the stirring member 34 in this embodiment is composed of a stirring shaft 34a and a blade portion 34b, a helical stirring shaft can also be used as an element to distribute the toner throughout the entire developer container 32.

[0110] Although in this embodiment, as Figure 7 and Figure 8A The toner packet 40 shown is made of a deformable plastic bag, but this is not limiting. For example, the toner packet could be made of, for example, a plastic bag. Figure 8B The bottle container 40B shown has an approximately conical shape, or can be made of, for example, Figure 8C The paper container 40C shown is formed from paper. In either case, the material and shape of the toner packet can be of any kind. Furthermore, as a method for discharging toner from the toner packet, it is preferable that the user squeezes the toner packet in the case of the toner packet 40 or the paper container 40C, and it is even more preferable that the user vibrates the container by tapping it or the like in the case of the bottle container 40B, causing the toner to fall out. Additionally, a discharge mechanism can be provided in the bottle container 40B to discharge toner from the bottle container 40B. Furthermore, the discharge mechanism can be configured to engage with the printer body 100 and receive driving force from the printer body 100.

[0111] Alternatively, the gate member 41 can be omitted from any toner pack, and a sliding gate member can be used instead of a rotating gate member 41. Furthermore, the gate member 41 can be configured to be destroyed when the toner pack is attached to the refill port 32a or when the toner pack is rotated while attached, or it can be a removable cover structure (such as a sticker).

[0112] [Method for detecting residual toner]

[0113] Next, we will refer to Figure 9 Figure 11 will be used to describe a method for detecting the amount of toner remaining in the developer container 32. In this embodiment, the developing apparatus 30 is provided with a first toner remaining amount sensor 51 and a second toner remaining amount sensor 52 to detect the state corresponding to the amount of toner remaining in the developer container 32.

[0114] The first toner remaining amount sensor 51 includes a light-emitting part 51a and a light-receiving part 51b, and the second toner remaining amount sensor 52 includes a light-emitting part 52a and a light-receiving part 52b. Figure 10 This is a circuit diagram illustrating an example of the circuit construction of toner remaining sensors 51 and 52. Note that the circuit construction of the first toner remaining sensor 51 will be described below, and the description of the circuit construction of the second toner remaining sensor 52 will be omitted.

[0115] although Figure 10 An LED is used as the light-emitting part 51a, and a phototransistor that switches to an on state based on light from the LED is used as the light-receiving part 51b; however, this is not limiting. For example, a halogen lamp or a fluorescent lamp can be used as the light-emitting part 51a, and a photodiode or avalanche photodiode can be used as the light-receiving part 51b. Note that a switch (not shown) is provided between the light-emitting part 51a and the power supply voltage Vcc, and by turning on this switch, a voltage from the power supply voltage Vcc is applied to the light-emitting part 51a, and the light-emitting part 51a is in an energized state. Simultaneously, a switch (not shown) is also provided between the light-receiving part 51b and the power supply voltage Vcc, and by turning on this switch, the light-receiving part 51b is in an energized state according to the current corresponding to the detected light intensity.

[0116] The light-emitting unit 51a is connected to the power supply voltage Vcc and the current-limiting resistor R1, and the light-emitting unit 51a emits light according to the current determined by the current-limiting resistor R1. Figure 9 As shown, light emitted from the light-emitting unit 51a passes through optical path Q1 and is received by the light-receiving unit 51b. The collector terminal of the light-receiving unit 51b is connected to the power supply voltage Vcc, and the emitter terminal of the light-receiving unit is connected to the detection resistor R2. The light-receiving unit 51b, acting as a phototransistor, receives the light emitted from the light-emitting unit 51a and outputs a signal (current) corresponding to the amount of light received. This signal is converted into a voltage V1 by the detection resistor R2 and input to the A / D conversion unit 95 of the control unit 90 (see [link to control unit]). Figure 12 Note that the light-receiving part 52b of the second toner remaining amount sensor 52 receives light emitted from the light-emitting part 52a that has passed through the light path Q2, and the voltage V2 corresponding to the amount of light received is output and input to the A / D conversion part 95 of the control part 90.

[0117] The control unit 90 (CPU 91) determines whether the light-receiving units 51b and 52b have received light from the light-emitting units 51a and 51b based on the input voltage level. The control unit 90 (CPU 91) calculates the toner dosage in the developer container 32 based on the duration and intensity of each light received by the light-receiving units 51b and 52b when the toner in the developer container 32 has been stirred by the stirring member 34 for a certain period. That is, the ROM 93 pre-stores a table that can output the remaining toner amount based on the light-receiving time and intensity when the toner is transferred by the stirring member 34, and the control unit 90 estimates / calculates the remaining toner amount based on the input to the A / D conversion unit 95 and the table.

[0118] More specifically, the optical path Q1 of the first toner remaining amount sensor 51 is set to intersect the rotation trajectory T of the stirring member 34. Furthermore, the time during each rotation of the stirring member 34 when the light in the optical path Q1 is blocked by the toner stirred up by the stirring member 34—that is, the time during which the light-receiving part 51b does not detect light from the light-emitting part 51a—varies depending on the remaining toner amount. Additionally, the light intensity received by the light-receiving part 51b also varies depending on the remaining toner amount.

[0119] That is, when the remaining amount of toner is large, the light path Q1 is more easily blocked by the toner, thus the light-receiving section 51b receives light for a shorter time, and the light intensity received by the light-receiving section 51b is lower. Conversely, when the remaining amount of toner is small, the light-receiving section 51b receives light for a longer time, and the light intensity received by the light-receiving section 51b is higher. Therefore, the control unit 90 can determine whether the remaining amount of toner is at a low or medium level based on the light-receiving time and light intensity of the light-receiving section 51b, as will be described later. For example, as Figure 11A As shown, when the toner dosage in the delivery chamber 36 of the developer container 32 is small, it is determined that the remaining toner level is low. Note that although the second toner remaining sensor 52 is configured not to intersect the rotation trajectory T of the stirring member 34 in the above description, the second toner remaining sensor 52 may be configured to intersect the rotation trajectory T of the stirring member 34 in a similar manner to the first toner remaining sensor 51 described above.

[0120] Furthermore, the optical path Q2 of the second toner remaining amount sensor 52 is set above the rotation trajectory T so as not to intersect with the rotation trajectory T of the stirring member 34. Additionally, when the light in the optical path Q2 is blocked by toner, the light-receiving part 52b of the second toner remaining amount sensor 52 will not detect light from the light-emitting part 52a, and when the light in the optical path Q2 is not blocked by toner, it will detect light from the light-emitting part 52a. Therefore, regardless of the rotation operation of the stirring member 34, the control unit 90 can determine whether the remaining toner level is full based on whether the light-receiving part 52b has received light, as will be described later. For example, as... Figure 11B As shown, when the toner dosage in the delivery chamber 36 of the developer container 32 is large, it is determined that the remaining toner level is full. Note that although the second toner level sensor 52 is configured not to intersect the rotation trajectory T of the stirring member 34 in the above description, the second toner level sensor 52 may be configured to intersect the rotation trajectory T of the stirring member 34 in a similar manner to the first toner level sensor 51 described above.

[0121] Note that the methods for detecting / estimating the amount of toner remaining are not limited to the reference. Figure 9 The described method for detecting the remaining amount of optical toner can also employ various known detection / estimation methods for toner remaining amount. For example, the remaining amount of toner can be detected / estimated by setting two or more metal plates or conductive resin sheets extending longitudinally on the inner wall of the developer container 32, which serves as a frame member, and measuring the electrostatic capacitance between the two metal plates or conductive resin sheets. Alternatively, a load sensor supporting the developing apparatus 30 from below can be provided, and the CPU 91 can calculate the remaining amount of toner by subtracting the weight of the developing apparatus 30 without toner from the weight measured by the load sensor. Furthermore, the first toner remaining amount sensor 51 can be omitted, and the control unit 90 (CPU 91) can calculate the remaining amount of toner based on the detection result of the second toner remaining amount sensor 52 and the laser emission state.

[0122] [Control system of imaging equipment]

[0123] Figure 12 This is a block diagram showing the control system of the imaging device 1. The control unit 90, which serves as the control device for the imaging device 1, includes a CPU 91 serving as a computing device, a RAM 92 serving as the working area of ​​the CPU 91, and a ROM 93 storing various programs. In addition, the control unit 90 includes an I / O interface 94 serving as an input / output port for connecting to external devices and an A / D converter 95 for converting analog signals into digital signals.

[0124] The first toner level sensor 51, the second toner level sensor 52, the attachment sensor 53, and the opening / closing sensor 54 are connected to the input side of the control unit 90. The attachment sensor 53 detects whether the toner packet 40 is attached to the replenishment port 32a of the developer container 32. For example, the attachment sensor 53 is composed of a pressure sensor provided at the replenishment port 32a, and outputs a detection signal when pressed by the protrusion 42 of the toner packet 40. The opening / closing sensor 54 detects whether the opening / closing member 83 has been opened relative to the top cover 82. The opening / closing sensor 54 is, for example, composed of a pressure sensor or a magnetic sensor.

[0125] Additionally, the control unit 90 is connected to the operation unit 300, the imaging unit 10, and the toner remaining level panel 400, which serves as a notification device capable of displaying information regarding the remaining toner level. The operation unit 300 includes a display unit 301 capable of displaying various setting screens, physical keys, etc. The display unit 301 is, for example, composed of a liquid crystal panel. The imaging unit 10 includes a motor M1 that serves as a drive source for driving the photosensitive drum 21, the developing roller 31, the supply roller 33, the stirring member 34, etc. Note that the photosensitive drum 21, the developing roller 31, the supply roller 33, and the stirring member 34 can be configured to be driven by different motors.

[0126] Toner remaining amount panel 400 is set as follows Figure 1B On the right side of the front surface of the printer body 100 housing shown in Figure 17, that is, on the opposite side of the operation section 300 located on the left side, information about the remaining amount of toner in the developer container 32 is displayed. In this embodiment, the toner remaining amount panel 400 is a panel component consisting of a plurality of indicators (three in this embodiment) arranged in the vertical direction, and the indicators correspond to low level, medium level and full level, respectively.

[0127] That is, such as Figure 17A As shown, with only the bottom indicator on, the remaining toner level in the developer container 32 is at a low level, indicating a third state. Figure 17B As shown, with the bottom and middle indicators on and the top indicator off, the remaining toner level in the developer container 32 is at a medium level, which is the second state. Figure 17C As shown, with all three indicators on, the remaining toner level in the developer container 32 is at a full level, serving as the first state. Note that the toner level panel 400 is not limited to a liquid crystal panel; it can also be composed of a light source (such as an LED or incandescent lamp) and a diffuser lens. Note that although a notification means for indicating the remaining toner level has been described in the example shown in Figure 17, this is not limiting. For example, Figure 17A The indicator can indicate that toner needs to be replenished. Figure 17BThe instructions indicate that no additional toner is needed, and Figure 17C The indicator can indicate that the toner has been adequately replenished.

[0128] [Toner replenishment treatment]

[0129] Next, the toner replenishment process of replenishing the developer container 32 with toner from toner pack 40 will be described. Figure 13 As shown, when the toner replenishment process begins, the control unit 90 determines whether a replenishment operation start command has been issued (step S1). In this embodiment, the replenishment operation start command is as follows: Figure 15 The user operates the operation unit 300 as shown. Specifically, when the display unit 301 is displaying a message prompting the operation button 1, the user operates the operation unit 300 and thus presses button 1 to output a supplementary operation start command.

[0130] Note that at this time, since the toner pack 40 is attached to the replenishment port 32a of the developer container 32, the opening / closing member 83 is open. Since both the operation unit 300 and the replenishment port 32a are located on the left side of the device, the toner replenishment operation using the toner pack 40 can be easily performed while operating the operation unit 300. Furthermore, when the opening / closing sensor 54 detects that the opening / closing member 83 is open, the control unit 90 disables and stops the imaging operation of the imaging device 1. Therefore, with the opening / closing member 83 open, the conveyor roller, photosensitive drum 21, scanning unit 11, etc., of the imaging device 1 stop.

[0131] Note that the replenishment operation start command is not limited to pressing button 1. The replenishment operation start command can be a touch operation on display unit 301, or it can be output in response to the attachment sensor 53 detecting that the toner packet 40 is attached to the replenishment port 32a. Alternatively, a sensor can be provided to detect whether the gate member 41 of the toner packet 40 is open, and the replenishment operation start command can be output based on the detection result of this sensor. Alternatively, the replenishment operation start command can be output based on the detection of the opening / closing member 83 by the opening / closing sensor 54. Another possible configuration is to cut off the high-voltage power supply applied to the processing box 20 when the opening / closing member 83 is open, so that only the motor M1 used to drive the stirring member 34 can be driven.

[0132] If the supplementary operation start command has been issued (step S1: Yes), the control unit 90 initializes the parameters of timers T1 and T2 (described later) to their initial values ​​(e.g., zero) and starts timers T1 and T2 (step S2). Then, the control unit 90 drives the motor M1 (step S3), and the stirring member 34 rotates.

[0133] Next, the control unit 90 performs a toner remaining amount detection process (step S4). When performing the toner remaining amount detection process, if... Figure 14 As shown, the control unit 90 causes the light-emitting portions 51a and 52a of the first toner remaining sensor 51 and the second toner remaining sensor 52 to emit light (step S41). Then, the control unit 90 converts the voltages V1 and V2 output from the light-receiving portions 51b and 52b of the first toner remaining sensor 51 and the second toner remaining sensor 52, respectively, into digital signals (hereinafter referred to as A / D conversion values) via the A / D conversion unit 95 (step S42).

[0134] Next, the control unit 90 determines whether the A / D conversion value of voltage V2 indicates that light in the optical path Q2 is blocked (step S43). If it indicates that light in the optical path Q2 is blocked (step S43: Yes), the control unit 90 sets the toner remaining level panel 400 to indicate that the toner remaining level is at full level (step S44). That is, as Figure 17C As shown, all three indicators on the toner remaining panel 400 are switched on.

[0135] If the A / D conversion value of voltage V2 does not indicate that light is blocked in optical path Q2 (step S43: No), the control unit 90 calculates the remaining toner amount information in the developer container 32 based on the A / D conversion value of voltage V1 (step S45). Then, based on the calculated remaining toner amount information, the control unit 90 causes the toner remaining amount panel 400 to indicate that the remaining toner amount is at a low or medium level (step S46). When step S44 or step S46 is completed, the remaining toner amount detection process ends. That is, the first toner remaining amount sensor 51 and the second toner remaining amount sensor 52, which serve as detection devices, output remaining amount information corresponding to the amount of developer contained in the developer container 32 while the stirring member 34 is operating.

[0136] Next, the control unit 90 determines whether timer T2 is above the threshold β, if... Figure 13 As shown in step S5. The threshold β is a preset value and corresponds to the interval at which the toner remaining quantity detection process is repeatedly executed. Note that α > β holds true. When timer T2 is above the threshold β (step S5: Yes), the control unit 90 initializes and restarts timer T2 (step S6) and returns to step S4. That is, the toner remaining quantity detection process is repeatedly executed (step S4) whenever timer T2 reaches the threshold β. For example, when the threshold β is set to 1 second, the toner remaining quantity detection process is repeatedly executed every 1 second in steps S4, S5, and S6.

[0137] Additionally, if timer T2 is less than threshold β (step S5: No), the control unit 90 determines whether timer T1 is greater than or equal to threshold α (step S7). Threshold α is a preset value and corresponds to the driving time of motor M1 and stirring member 34 during the toner replenishment process. If timer T1 is less than threshold α (step S7: No), the process returns to step S5. If timer T1 is greater than or equal to threshold α (step S7: Yes), the control unit 90 stops driving motor M1 (step S8) and ends the toner replenishment process. For example, if threshold α is set to 10 seconds, the time from when motor M1 starts driving in step S3 to when motor M1 stops in step S8 is 10 seconds.

[0138] In the case where toner falls from toner packet 40 into developer container 32 during the toner replenishment process described above, such as Figure 16A As shown, the toner enters the delivery chamber 36 through the first protrusion 37. Since the replenishment port 32a and the first protrusion 37 are located at one longitudinal end of the developer container 32, the toner is supplied together to one end side of the delivery chamber 36.

[0139] Here, we will consider the case where the stirring member 34 does not rotate when the toner is supplied to the delivery chamber 36. When toner is dropped from the toner packet 40 into the developer container 32, if the stirring member 34 does not rotate within the delivery chamber 36 containing the toner, it takes a certain amount of time for the dropped toner to spread along the entire longitudinal length of the photosensitive drum 21. If this time is long, the user performing the toner replenishment operation will need time to confirm whether the delivery chamber 36 has been replenished with toner, which reduces usability.

[0140] Therefore, in this embodiment, during the toner replenishment process, the stirring member 34 is driven for a predetermined time (threshold α) from the start of replenishment. Thus, as... Figure 16B and Figure 16C As shown, the toner supplied from the toner pack 40 to one end of the developer container 32 is rapidly spread out along the entire longitudinal length of the delivery chamber 36 of the developer container 32 by the stirring member 34. Therefore, the time required for the user to confirm whether toner replenishment has been performed is reduced, and usability is improved. Furthermore, because the toner contained in the developer container 32 is spread out, the accuracy of the toner remaining information from the first toner remaining sensor 51 and the second toner remaining sensor 52 is improved.

[0141] Then, during toner replenishment, the remaining toner level in the developer container 32 is detected every predetermined time interval (threshold β) by the first toner level sensor 51 and the second toner level sensor 52. For example, as Figure 17AAs shown, when the toner remaining level panel 400 indicates that the toner remaining level is low, the user replenishes the developer container 32 with toner from the toner pack 40.

[0142] Then, the toner remaining amount panel 400 indicates that the toner remaining amount is as follows: Figure 17B After the indicated medium level, the toner remaining panel 400 indicates that the toner remaining level is as shown. Figure 17C The developer container 32 is at its full level. Therefore, the user can reliably identify whether the developer container 32 has been replenished with toner from the toner pack 40, and availability is improved.

[0143] here, Figures 16A to 16C The sectional view indicates section 16A-16A of Figure 6. Figure 16A and Figure 16B The light-emitting part 52a is shown positioned at the longitudinal right end of the photosensitive drum 21. Additionally, the light-emitting part 51a and the light-receiving parts 51b and 52b are positioned at exactly / approximately the same location longitudinally along the photosensitive drum 21. Due to limitations in sensor arrangement within the device body, in some cases, the sensors can be as follows... Figure 16A and Figure 16B The arrangement is as shown. Moreover, in this case, usability can be improved as described above by rotating the stirring member 34 when the toner is replenished.

[0144] Additionally, in some cases, the sensor can be positioned approximately directly below the supplementary port 32a. In such cases, as... Figure 16B As shown, more toner replenishment may be distributed on the left side, and it may take more time for the toner surface to flatten along the entire longitudinal length of the photosensitive drum 21. For accurate detection of toner replenishment status, the toner surface needs to be flattened across the entire longitudinal region of the photosensitive drum 21. However, even under these conditions, in this embodiment, the rotation of the stirring member 34 during toner replenishment flattens the toner surface across the entire longitudinal region of the photosensitive drum 21, and usability is improved.

[0145] [The relationship between the amount of toner filled into the toner packet and the capacity of the developer container]

[0146] Next, the relationship between the amount of toner filled into the toner packet 40 and the capacity of the developer container 32 will be described. Figure 18A As shown, the developer container 32 is capable of holding Z[g] of toner. Note that although in Figures 18A to 18C The unit is given in grams (g), but this unit can also be converted to units indicating volume, such as milliliters (ml).

[0147] When the developer container 32 contains 0 to X g of toner, the toner remaining amount panel 400 indicates a low level based on the detection results of the first toner remaining amount sensor 51 and the second toner remaining amount sensor 52. X g corresponds to a second amount, and a toner dose of 0 to X g corresponds to a toner dose less than the second amount.

[0148] When the developer container 32 contains X[g] to Y[g] of toner, the toner remaining amount panel 400 indicates a medium level based on the detection results of the first toner remaining amount sensor 51 and the second toner remaining amount sensor 52. Y[g] corresponds to the first amount, and the toner dosage of X[g] to Y[g] corresponds to a toner dosage less than the first amount.

[0149] When the developer container 32 contains more than Y[g] of toner, the toner remaining amount panel 400 indicates the full level based on the detection results of the first toner remaining amount sensor 51 and the second toner remaining amount sensor 52. A toner dose of more than Y[g] corresponds to a toner dose of more than a first amount.

[0150] Figure 18B It is a diagram indicating the toner dosage when toner is added to developer container 32 by using toner packet 40 filled with A[g] toner. Figure 18C This is a diagram indicating the toner dosage when toner is added to the developer container 32 using a toner pack 40 filled with toner B[g] (>A). Note that the toner pack 40 may be available in one or both of the following: a small-capacity toner pack filled only with toner A[g] and a large-capacity toner pack filled with toner B[g]. Furthermore, the toner pack 40 may be available in three or more different types, not just two.

[0151] In this embodiment, the toner dosage (A, B) filled into the toner packet 40 used as a replenishment container satisfies the following formulas (1) and (2).

[0152] Y≤A <Z-Y...(1)

[0153] Y≤B <Z-Y...(2)

[0154] like Figure 18BAs shown, if the residual toner in the developer container 32 is R[g] in the range of 0[g] to X[g], and only A[g] of toner is added to the developer container 32 from the toner pack 40, then the developer container 32 holds (R+A)[g] of toner. Since Y<(R+A) is satisfied according to the above formula (1), the toner remaining amount panel 400 indicates a full level after the toner is added. That is, the threshold Y[g] of the full level is less than the amount of replenishment A[g] supplied from the toner pack 40.

[0155] In addition, such as Figure 18C As shown, if toner residue R[g] remains in developer container 32, and toner packet 40 replenishes developer container 32 with toner B[g], then developer container 32 holds (R+B)[g] of toner. Since Y<(R+B) is satisfied according to the above formula (2), the toner remaining amount panel 400 indicates full level after toner replenishment.

[0156] As described above, the capacity of the developer container 32 is set such that the toner remaining panel 400 always indicates a full level when toner replenishment is performed while the toner remaining level is at or below the level indicated. Note that the capacity of the developer container 32 need not be set so that a single toner packet 40 achieves a full level; for example, a full level can be achieved by replenishing multiple toner packets 40, each containing a small amount of toner.

[0157] Furthermore, according to formulas (1) and (2) above, the capacity of the developer container 32 is set such that all the toner filled into the toner pack 40 at the level or low level indicated on the toner remaining amount panel 400 can be moved into the developer container 32. That is, the maximum amount of developer Z[g] that can be contained in the developer container 32 is greater than the value obtained by adding the amount of developer (A[g] or B[g]) contained in the toner pack 40 to Y[g], which is the boundary between the full level and the medium level. In other words, the amount of toner filled into the toner pack 40 is less than the difference between the maximum amount of toner (Z[g]) that can be contained in the developer container 32 and the remaining amount of toner (Y[g]) that is the boundary between the medium level and the full level.

[0158] Therefore, the developer container 32 will not be filled with toner during the replenishment of toner by using the toner pack 40, and leakage of toner from the replenishment port 32a during toner replenishment can be suppressed.

[0159] As described above, in this embodiment, the second opening 82a is defined in the discharge tray 81 of the top cover 82, and the opening / closing member 83 is closably provided on the top cover 82. The opening / closing member 83 covers the second opening 82a in the closed state and exposes the replenishment port 32a of the developer container 32 in the open state. Therefore, the user can access the replenishment port 32a simply by opening the opening / closing member 83.

[0160] In this embodiment, since toner is replenished directly from the toner pack 40 to the developer container 32 via the replenishment port 32a (direct replenishment method), the processing cartridge 20 does not need to be removed when replenishing the developer container 32 with toner. Furthermore, the replenishment port 32a of the developer container 32 is defined in the upper surface of the first protrusion 37 protruding upward from one longitudinal end of the transfer chamber 36, and is therefore located near the second opening 82a. Thus, the user can easily perform toner replenishment operations on the developer container 32 through the replenishment port 32a. Additionally, components such as the developing roller 31 and the supply roller 33 do not need to be replaced when replenishing toner to the developer container 32, thereby reducing costs.

[0161] Furthermore, since the laser is formed by the space SP being surrounded by the first protrusion 37, the second protrusion 38, the handle portion 39, and the delivery chamber 36, the developer container 32 and the scanning unit 11 can be arranged near each other, thus enabling the imaging device 1 to be miniaturized.

[0162] Furthermore, when the toner packet 40 is attached to the replenishment port 32a and a toner replenishment operation is performed, the stirring member 34 is activated, thus suppressing congestion even if the replenishment port 32a is located at one of the longitudinal ends of the developer container 32. Therefore, image defects can be reduced, and the detection accuracy of toner remaining information can be improved.

[0163] Furthermore, the maximum amount of developer Z[g] that the developer container 32 can hold is set to be greater than the value obtained by adding the developer dose (A[g] or B[g]) contained in the toner pack 40 to Y[g], which serves as the boundary between the full level and the intermediate level. Therefore, the developer container 32 will not become completely full of toner during toner replenishment using the toner pack 40, and toner leakage from the replenishment port 32a during toner replenishment can be suppressed. By constructing the imaging device 1 in this way, an imaging device type that meets the user's needs can be provided.

[0164] Note that although in this embodiment the stirring member 34 is driven for a predetermined time (threshold α) based on the user's operation of button 1 on the operation unit 300 during the toner replenishment process, this is not limiting. For example, the stirring member 34 can be started by pressing button 1 once, and the stirring member 34 can be stopped by pressing button 1 again. Alternatively, the stirring member 34 can be driven only when button 1 is pressed.

[0165] Additionally, when the remaining toner in the developer container 32 reaches a low level, the display unit 301 can display a notification to replenish the toner. Furthermore, when the toner is depleted, a notification to replenish the toner can be displayed on the display unit 301.

[0166] Furthermore, although the remaining toner level in the developer container 32 is indicated to the user by the toner level panel 400, it is not necessary to use a three-indicator configuration as in this embodiment. For example, the toner level panel 400 may consist of one indicator, two indicators, four indicators, or more indicators. Alternatively, the remaining toner level may be continuously indicated by a percentage or a digital display. Additionally, a speaker may be used to inform the user of the remaining toner level audibly.

[0167] <First Variation Example>

[0168] Figure 19A A first variation of the first embodiment is shown. For example... Figure 19A As shown, in the imaging device 1B, the developer container replenishment port 132a is located on the right side of the imaging device, and the opening / closing member 83B is also located on the right side of the imaging device. The opening / closing member 83B exposes the replenishment port 132a in the open state and covers the replenishment port 132a in the closed state. By positioning the replenishment port 132a on the right side of the imaging device as described above, the replenishment port 132a is positioned near the toner remaining amount panel 400. Therefore, when toner is replenished to the developer container using the toner pack 40, the toner remaining amount panel 400 can be easily checked.

[0169] <Second Variation Example>

[0170] Furthermore, the construction is not limited to Figure 19A The illustrated embodiments; as Figure 19B As shown, the present invention can be applied to an imaging device 1C configured such that the opening / closing member 83C opens forward.

[0171] <Third Variation Example>

[0172] In addition, such as Figure 19C As shown, the present invention can be applied to an imaging device 1D configured such that the opening / closing member 83D opens rearward.

[0173] <Fourth Variation Example>

[0174] In addition, such as Figure 20A As shown, the operation unit 300E can be located in the reading device 200 instead of the printer body 100, or it can be located on the right side of the imaging device together with the toner level panel 400. Note that, of course, both the operation unit 300E and the toner level panel 400 can be located on the right side of the imaging device.

[0175] <Fifth Variation Example>

[0176] In addition, such as Figure 20B As shown, the toner remaining amount panel 400F can be located on the left side of the imaging device, and the operation unit 300F can be located on the right side of the imaging device.

[0177] <Second Embodiment>

[0178] Next, a second embodiment of the invention will be described. In the second embodiment, the construction of supplementary port 32a differs from that in the first embodiment. Therefore, elements that are substantially the same as those in the first embodiment will be indicated by the same reference numerals in the drawings, or will be omitted from the illustrations.

[0179] like Figure 21A As shown, in the imaging device 1G, the opening / closing member 83G is supported by the top cover 82 and is configured to open towards the rear of the imaging device. By opening the opening / closing member 83G, the replenishment port 232a of the developer container 32G is exposed. Furthermore, the replenishment port 232a opens downstream and upward in the discharge direction of the discharge roller pair 80, so as to be inclined relative to the vertical direction. In other words, the replenishment port 232a opens inclined towards the upper front side.

[0180] By constructing the replenishment port 232a in this way, the toner pack 40 tilts forward when attached to the replenishment port 232a. Therefore, the space between the replenishment port 232a and the reading device 200 can be used efficiently, and a large-capacity toner pack can also be attached to the replenishment port 232a.

[0181] Note that, as Figure 22A and Figure 22B As shown, the opening / closing member 83H and the reading device 200 can be configured to be less than Figure 21A and Figure 21B Such a steep angle is maintained. By adopting this structure, the installation space of imaging device 1 can be reduced.

[0182] <Third Embodiment>

[0183] Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the third embodiment, the construction of the box guide 102 differs from that of the first embodiment. Therefore, elements that are substantially the same as those in the first embodiment will be indicated by the same reference numerals in the drawings, or will be omitted from the drawings.

[0184] like Figure 23A and Figure 23B As shown, the imaging device 1J includes a printer body 100J and a reader 200, and the printer body 100J includes a cartridge guide 102J. The cartridge guide 102J can accommodate a protrusion 21a disposed at the axial end of the photosensitive drum 21 (see...). Figure 5A The slide guides the processing box 20 when it is pulled out.

[0185] Pull-out stop 102Ja is formed at the downstream end of box guide 102J in the pull-out direction. Therefore, when... Figure 23B When the user pulls out the processing cartridge 20, the protrusion 21a of the processing cartridge 20 abuts against the pull-out stop 102Ja, so the processing cartridge 20 will not be removed from the printer body 100J. Note that a rotation stop (not shown) is provided near the pull-out stop 102Ja, and the processing cartridge 20 is held by the rotation stop so that it does not rotate when it abuts against the pull-out stop 102Ja.

[0186] As described above, with the processing box 20 pulled out along the box guide 102J, the supplementary port 32a is positioned on the front side of the imaging device 1J, such as... Figure 24 , Figure 25A and Figure 25B As shown. Therefore, a toner replenishment operation can be easily performed by adding toner to the developer container 32 using the toner pack 40 through the replenishment port 32a. Furthermore, since a large space is provided directly above the replenishment port 32a, a large-capacity toner pack can be attached to the replenishment port 32a. Note that all the above embodiments and variations can be appropriately combined.

[0187] Note that although the reader 200 is positioned above the printer body in all the above embodiments, this is not limiting. That is, the imaging device may be a printer that does not include a reader. Alternatively, the reader may be a reader that includes an automatic document feeder (ADF) for feeding the original document.

[0188] Industrial applicability

[0189] This invention is applicable to imaging devices such as printers, copiers, fax machines, and multifunction devices that include these functions. In particular, this invention is applicable to imaging devices that include a developer container with a removable and attachable supplementary container for refilling developer.

[0190] This invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be modified and altered in various ways within the concept and scope of this invention. Therefore, the following claims are appended to disclose the scope of the invention.

[0191] List of reference numerals

[0192] 1: Imaging equipment

[0193] 12: Transfer device (transfer roller)

[0194] 21: Image carrier component (photosensitive drum)

[0195] 31: Developer carrier component (developing roller)

[0196] 32: Developer container

[0197] 32a: Supplementary port

[0198] 36: Reception Section (Transfer Chamber)

[0199] 40: Refill container (paint packet)

[0200] 80: Discharge device (discharge roller pair)

[0201] 81: Support surface (discharge tray)

[0202] 82: Support tray (top cover)

[0203] 82a: Opening (Second Opening)

[0204] 83: Opening and closing components

[0205] 100: Printer body

Claims

1. An imaging apparatus configured to form a toner image on a recording material, the imaging apparatus comprising: The processing unit includes: a photosensitive drum; a roller configured to supply toner to the photosensitive drum; and a toner container configured to hold toner to be carried on the roller and having an attachment portion; The device body has a processing unit detachably attached to it. The device body has: a first opening through which the processing unit is detachably attached; and a second opening through which the attachment portion of the processing unit is exposed to the outside of the device body. The second opening is smaller than the first opening, preventing the processing unit from being attached to or detached from the device body via the second opening. The toner container is detachably attached to the attachment portion of the processing unit exposed through a second opening in the main body of the device.

2. The imaging device according to claim 1 further includes an opening and closing member configured to rotate relative to the device body about a rotation axis extending longitudinally along the photosensitive drum between an open position and a closed position, wherein the opening and closing member opens a second opening in the open position and closes the second opening in the closed position.

3. The imaging device according to claim 2, wherein, The main body of the equipment includes a feed tray on which the recording materials will be stacked; and In the case where the side supplying the recording material to the feed tray is the front side, the opening and closing member opens towards the front side during the rotation from the closed position to the open position.

4. The imaging device according to claim 3, wherein, The rotation axis, the open position, and the closed position are respectively the first rotation axis, the first open position, and the first closed position; and The imaging device includes a reading unit configured to read an image on a recording material. The reading unit is supported by a device body and is rotatable relative to the device body between a second open position and a second closed position about a second rotation axis extending in a direction along a first rotation axis. In the second open position, the processing unit can be attached to and detached from the device body via a first opening, and in the second closed position, the processing unit cannot be attached to and detached from the device body via the first opening.

5. The imaging device according to claim 4, wherein, The reading unit opens to the rear side, opposite to the front side, during the rotation from the second closed position to the second open position.

6. The imaging device according to claim 2, wherein, The rotation axis, the open position, and the closed position are respectively the first rotation axis, the first open position, and the first closed position; and The imaging device includes a reading unit configured to read an image on a recording material. The reading unit is supported by a device body and rotates relative to the device body between a second open position and a second closed position about a second rotation direction extending along a first rotation axis. In the second open position, the processing unit can be attached to and detached from the device body via a first opening, and in the second closed position, the processing unit cannot be attached to and detached from the device body via the first opening.

7. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein, The main body of the device includes a cover, which is configured to cover the processing unit and has a second opening.

8. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein, The attachments include: The refill port allows for the replenishment of toner from the toner container into the toner reservoir; and The gate is configured to open and close the supplementary port.

Images