Container and container manufacturing method

Abstract

A container for accommodating a developer includes: a first frame body 21 having an opening portion and a first surface 21L extending along an edge of the opening portion; a second frame body 22 connected to the first frame body 21 to cover the opening portion and forming, together with the first frame body 21, a storage portion for storing the developer, the second frame body 22 having a second surface 22L facing the first surface 21L and extending in a direction in which the first surface 21L extends; and a connecting member 43 that connects the first frame body 21 and the second frame body 22, in which a convex portion 21a is provided on one of the first surface 21L and the second surface 22L, a concave portion 22a is provided on the other surface, the convex portion 21a is inserted into the concave portion 22a so that a distal end surface of the convex portion 21a and a bottom surface of the concave portion 22a do not come into contact with each other, and the connecting member 43 connects the first frame body 21 and the second frame body 22. The connecting member 43 is provided between the convex portion 21a and the concave portion 22a so as to be in contact with both the end surface of the convex portion 21a and the bottom surface of the concave portion 22a.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a unit provided in an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine or a printer which adopts an electrophotographic system. Background Art

[0002] As a structure of an image forming apparatus, there is a case where a processing box system is adopted, in which a photosensitive drum (image bearing member) or a processing unit and a developer container acting thereon are integrally formed into a box and the box is detachably attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus. Examples of boxes include a developing unit having a developing sleeve (developer bearing member) and a developing blade (developer control member), and a photosensitive unit having a photosensitive drum and a cleaning blade (cleaning member). These units are provided with a frame body for supporting each processing member, and the frame body is provided with a storage portion for a toner (developer). For example, in a full-color printer or the like in which a plurality of processing boxes are removably attached to the same main body of an image forming apparatus, a unit frame body having a different capacity of a toner storage portion can be prepared for each unit according to the frequency of use or the like.

[0003] The unit frame (which is also a developer container) is divided into a plurality of frame bodies and integrally formed by a connection method such as ultrasonic welding. As a connection method, a method of forming a concave-convex portion at a connection portion of each frame and fixing the gap with an adhesive has been proposed (PTL 1). In addition, a method of fixing the frame bodies to each other by a mold and injecting molten resin into the gap formed in the connection portion to join them with the resin has been proposed.

[0004] Furthermore, as a snap-fit ​​configuration for engagement, configurations described in, for example, PTL 2 to PTL 4 have been proposed.

[0005] [Citation List]

[0006] [Patent Document]

[0007] [PTL 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-134690

[0008] [PTL 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H08-146859

[0009] [PTL 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H08-211815

[0010] [PTL 4] Japanese Patent No. 2877540 Summary of the invention

[0011] [Technical issues]

[0012] The present invention further develops the above-mentioned prior art.

[0013] [Solution to the problem]

[0014] In order to achieve the above object, the container according to the present invention relates to a container for containing a developer, the container comprising:

[0015] A first frame body provided with an opening portion, the first frame body having a first surface extending along an edge of the opening portion;

[0016] a second frame body connected to the first frame body in such a manner as to cover the opening portion and forming a storage portion for storing a developer together with the first frame body, the second frame body having a second surface facing the first surface and extending in a direction in which the first surface extends; and

[0017] a connecting member, the connecting member connecting the first frame body and the second frame body,

[0018] wherein the convex portion is arranged on one of the first surface and the second surface, and the concave portion is arranged on the other of the first surface and the second surface,

[0019] wherein the convex portion is inserted into the concave portion so that a tip end surface of the convex portion and a bottom surface of the concave portion do not contact each other, and

[0020] The connecting member is provided between the convex portion and the concave portion in such a manner as to contact both a distal end surface of the convex portion and a bottom surface of the concave portion.

[0021] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, a method for manufacturing a container according to the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a container, the container including a first frame body provided with an opening portion and a second frame body, the first frame body having a first surface extending along an edge of the opening portion, the second frame body being connected to the first frame body in a manner covering the opening portion and forming a storage portion for storing a developer together with the first frame body, the second frame body having a second surface facing the first surface and extending in a direction in which the first surface extends, a convex portion being provided on one of the first surface and the second surface, and a concave portion being provided on the other of the first surface and the second surface, the method comprising:

[0022] a supplying step of supplying molten resin to the concave portion;

[0023] a moving step of moving at least one of the first frame body and the second frame body so that a distal end surface of the convex portion is immersed in the molten resin in the concave portion, the moving step being subsequent to the supplying step; and

[0024] A solidification step of solidifying the molten resin, the solidification step being subsequent to the moving step.

[0025] [Advantageous Effects of the Invention]

[0026] According to the present invention, the manufacturing cost of the container can be reduced and the assembly accuracy can be stabilized. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] [ Figure 1 ] Figure 1 A to Figure 1 C is a cross-sectional view of a joining portion showing the joining configuration of the frame according to the first embodiment.

[0028] [ Figure 2 ] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of the image forming apparatus.

[0029] [ Figure 3 ] Figure 3 A and Figure 3 B is a perspective view of the appearance of the process cartridge.

[0030] [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a process cartridge.

[0031] [ Figure 5 ] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing a structure of attachment and detachment of a process cartridge with respect to an image forming apparatus.

[0032] [ Figure 6 ] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a frame structure of a developing unit.

[0033] [ Figure 7 ] Figure 7 A and Figure 7 B is an external view showing a joining portion of the developing frame body.

[0034] [ Figure 8 ] Figure 8 is a perspective view showing the assembling of the developing cap to the developer container.

[0035] [ Fig. 9 ] Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing attachment of a cleaning member to the developer container.

[0036] [ Fig.10 ] Fig.10 A and Fig.10 B is a perspective view showing a frame configuration of the developing unit.

[0037] [ Fig.11 ] Fig.11 is a perspective view showing a state in which a connecting member is applied to the developing cap.

[0038] [ Fig.12 ] Fig.12 A to Fig.12 C is a partial perspective view showing a method of fixing the developing cap to the developer container.

[0039] [ Fig.13 ] Fig.13 A to Fig.13 C is a partial perspective view showing a method of fixing the developing cap to the developer container.

[0040] [ Fig.14 ] Fig.14 A to Fig.14 C is a partial perspective view showing a method of fixing the developing cap to the developer container.

[0041] [ Fig.15 ] Fig.15 is a sectional view of a joining portion showing a joining configuration of a frame body according to a second embodiment.

[0042] [ Fig.16 ] Fig.16 is a cross-sectional view showing a frame configuration of the cleaning unit.

[0043] [ Fig.17 ] Fig.17 A and Fig.17 B is an external view showing the frame configuration of the cleaning frame.

[0044] [ Fig.18 ] Fig.18 is a perspective view showing attachment of a developer regulating member to the developer container.

[0045] [ Fig.19 ] Fig.19 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the developing sub-unit.

[0046] [ Fig. 20 ] Fig. 20 A and Fig. 20 B is a perspective view showing attachment of a cleaning cover to the cleaning container.

[0047] [ Fig.21 ] Fig.21 A to Fig.21 C is a partial perspective view showing a method of fixing the cleaning cover to the cleaning container.

[0048] [ Fig. 22] Fig. 22 This is a perspective view of the cleaning unit.

[0049] [ Fig.23 ] Fig.23 A and Fig.23 B is a perspective view showing a frame configuration of the toner cartridge.

[0050] [ Fig.24 ] Fig.24 is a cross-sectional view showing a connection structure of a toner frame member.

[0051] [ Fig.25 ] Fig.25 A to Fig.25 D is an explanatory diagram of the second positioning boss.

[0052] [ Fig.26 ] Fig.26 A to Fig.26 D is an illustration of the fixed portion.

[0053] [ Fig. 27 ] Fig. 27 is a perspective view of an appearance of a developing unit according to a fifth embodiment.

[0054] [ Fig.28 ] Fig.28 A and Fig.28 B is an explanatory diagram of the snap fit of the developing unit.

[0055] [ Fig.29 ] Fig.29 A to Fig.29 D is an explanatory diagram of the snap fit of the developing unit.

[0056] [ Fig.30 ] Fig.30 A and Fig.30 B is an explanatory diagram of the snap fit of the developing unit.

[0057] [ Fig.31 ] Fig.31 is a perspective view of an appearance of a developing unit according to a sixth embodiment.

[0058] [ Fig.32 ] Fig.32 It is an explanatory diagram of the snap fit of the developing unit.

[0059] [ Fig.33 ] Fig.33 It is an explanatory diagram of the snap fit of the developing unit.

[0060] [ Fig.34 ] Fig.34 A to Fig.34 C is an illustration of hot melt scraping.

[0061] [ Fig.35 ] Fig.35 This is a diagram to explain hot melt scraping.

[0062] [ Fig.36 ] Fig.36 This is a perspective view of the cleaning unit.

[0063] [ Fig.37 ] Fig.37 A and Fig.37 B is an explanatory diagram of the snap fit of the cleaning unit.

[0064] [ Fig.38 ] Fig.38 A and Fig.38 It is an explanatory diagram of the snap fit of the cleaning unit.

[0065] [ Fig.39 ] Fig.39 A to Fig.39 D is an explanatory diagram of the snap fit of the cleaning unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0066] In the following examples, the embodiments in the present disclosure will be described by way of example. However, the configurations disclosed in the following embodiments (e.g., functions, materials, shapes, and relative arrangements of components) illustrate examples of modes associated with the claims and are not intended to limit the claims to the configurations disclosed in these embodiments. In addition, the problems solved or the effects achieved by the arrangements disclosed in the following examples or by the disclosed arrangements are not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0067] First embodiment

[0068] An electrophotographic image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Here, the electrophotographic image forming apparatus (hereinafter referred to as the image forming apparatus) forms an image on a recording material by using an electrophotographic image forming method. Examples of the image forming apparatus include an electrophotographic copier, an electrophotographic fax apparatus, an electrophotographic printer (laser printer, LED printer, etc.), a compound machine (multifunction printer), an electrophotographic word processor, etc. As the recording material, a sheet-like recording medium such as recording paper or a plastic sheet is included.

[0069] The image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment is an image forming apparatus adopting a so-called cartridge system. A cartridge is a unit that can be attached to and detached from the image forming apparatus and includes a photosensitive member and a processing unit (e.g., a charging member, a developing member, a cleaning member, etc.) acting on the photosensitive member.

[0070] In the following embodiments, a monochromatic laser printer capable of attaching and detaching a process cartridge (cartridge) is shown as an image forming apparatus. It should be noted that the number of process cartridges installed on the image forming apparatus is not limited thereto, and for example, a plurality of process cartridges having different colors from each other may be removably constructed in a full-color laser printer.

[0071] Overview of the entire laser printer

[0072] Figure 2 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a laser printer as an example of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. Figure 2 As shown, in the laser printer 1, a sheet feeding portion 103, a transfer roller 104, a fixing portion 105, and a laser scanner 101 are installed in a printer body (image forming apparatus body) A. In addition, a process cartridge B and a toner cartridge C are removably provided on the printer body A.

[0073] The process cartridge B includes a cleaning unit 10 (first unit) including a photosensitive drum 11 as an image bearing member and a developing unit 15 (second unit) including a developing roller 16 as a developer bearing member that carries a developer (toner).

[0074] The cleaning unit 10 includes the above-mentioned photosensitive drum 11, a charging roller 12 as a charging member, a cleaning blade 13 as a cleaning member, a waste toner main storage portion 100, and a waste toner conveying path (not shown). The photosensitive drum 11 is rotatably provided in a frame body (cleaning frame body) of the cleaning unit 10, and rotates by receiving a driving force of a motor (not shown) provided in the printer body A. The charging roller 12 is provided to contact the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 11, and charges the photosensitive drum 11 by applying a voltage from the printer body (device body) A. In addition, the charging roller 12 is rotatably provided in the cleaning frame member, and rotates following the rotating photosensitive drum 11. The cleaning blade 13 is an elastic member provided to contact the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 11. The tip of the cleaning blade 13 elastically contacts the photosensitive drum 11 so that the toner remaining on the photosensitive drum 11 after a sheet S as a recording material to be described later passes between the photosensitive drum 11 and the transfer roller 104 is removed from the photosensitive drum 11. The removed toner (waste toner) is conveyed to the toner cartridge C through a waste toner conveying path (not shown) from a waste toner main storage portion 100 to be described later.

[0075] The developing unit 15 includes a developing chamber 151 (in which the developing roller 16 is rotatably disposed) and a developer storage chamber 152 for supplying toner to the developing chamber 151. The developing roller 16 supplies toner to the developing area of ​​the photosensitive drum 11. The developing roller 16 develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 11 using the toner (developer). The developing blade 17 contacts the outer peripheral surface of the developing roller 16 to limit the amount of toner attached to the outer peripheral surface of the developing roller 16 (controls the thickness of the toner layer). In addition, a triboelectric charge is imparted to the toner. The toner stored in the developer storage portion (developer storage chamber) 152 is sent out to the developing chamber 151 and supplied to the developing roller 16 by the rotation of the stirring member 154. Once it is detected by a remaining amount detection unit (not shown) that the amount of toner in the developer storage chamber 152 has become equal to or less than a predetermined amount, the toner is supplied from the toner cartridge C to the process cartridge B.

[0076] The toner cartridge C has a toner supply portion 2 for supplying toner to the process cartridge B and a waste toner recovery portion (not shown) for recovering waste toner from the process cartridge B.

[0077] The process cartridge B and the toner cartridge C are attachable to and detachable from the printer main body A.

[0078] Laser Printer Operation

[0079] The photosensitive drum 11, which is rotationally driven by a driving source (not shown), is uniformly charged to a predetermined potential by a charging roller 12. The surface of the charged photosensitive drum 11 is image-exposed by a laser scanner 101 based on image information, and the charge of the exposed portion is removed to form an electrostatic latent image. The electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 11 is visualized as a toner image by supplying toner from a developing roller 16.

[0080] On the other hand, the sheet S is conveyed along the sheet feeding portion 103 in parallel with the toner image forming operation. Specifically, the feed roller 103b rotates to feed the sheet S. Thereafter, when the toner image on the photosensitive drum 11 reaches the transfer portion between the photosensitive drum 11 and the transfer roller 104, the sheet S is also conveyed to the transfer portion at the same time. When the sheet S passes through the transfer portion, the toner image is transferred to the sheet S as an unfixed image by applying a bias to the transfer roller 104. Thereafter, the sheet S to which the toner image has been transferred is conveyed to the fixing portion 105. When the sheet S conveyed to the fixing portion 105 passes through the fixing portion 105, the unfixed image is heated and pressurized to be fixed on the surface of the sheet S. Thereafter, the sheet S is further conveyed by the sheet feeding portion 103, and is discharged and stacked on the discharge tray 106.

[0081] Overview of the process cartridge

[0082] Will refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The configuration of the process cartridge 5 in this embodiment is described in detail. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the appearance of the process box 5, wherein Figure 3 A is the process box 5 in a vertical direction Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of one side in the direction of the paper surface (the axial direction of the photosensitive drum 11), and Figure 3 B is a schematic perspective view of the other side. Figure 4 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the process cartridge 5 in a case where the process cartridge 5 is cut along a direction perpendicular to the axis of the photosensitive drum 11 .

[0083] In the present embodiment, the process cartridge 5 is connected to the cleaning unit 10 so that the developing unit 15 can rotate around the straight line (rotation center 8) connecting the fulcrums 8a and 8b. The charging roller 12 provided in the cleaning unit 10 is a contact charging type charging component, which abuts against the photosensitive drum 11 and rotates following the photosensitive drum 11. The cleaning blade 13 is an elastic rubber blade, and its end portion is arranged to contact the photosensitive drum 11. The cleaning blade 13 is used to remove the toner remaining on the photosensitive drum 11. The toner recovered by the cleaning blade 13 is stored in the waste toner storage portion 14 in the cleaning unit 10.

[0084] The developing unit 15 includes a developing roller 16 and a developing blade 17 as developing parts. The developing unit 15 also includes a developing chamber 151 and a developer storage chamber 152. The developing roller 16 is disposed in the developing chamber 151, and the developing blade 17 is disposed so that its end portion is in contact with the developing roller 16. The developing blade 17 is used to control the toner carried on the outer peripheral surface of the developing roller 16 into a thin layer. Hereinafter, the direction parallel to the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 11 or the developing roller 16 is referred to as the longitudinal direction.

[0085] The developing unit 15 is provided with a pressure spring 19 (see Figure 3 B) biased, and configured so that the developing roller 16 contacts the photosensitive drum 11 about the rotation center 8. Figure 4 The moment in the R1 direction in the image acts on the developing unit 15 by the biasing force of the pressure spring 19. Thus, the developing roller 16 can contact the photosensitive drum 11 with a predetermined pressure. The position of the developing unit 15 relative to the cleaning unit 10 at this time is defined as a contact position.

[0086] Will refer to Figure 5 A method of attaching and detaching the process cartridge 5 to and from the printer main body A is described. Figure 5 1 is a schematic perspective view showing a state where a process cartridge is attached to and detached from an image forming apparatus. Figure 5As shown, the space inside the printer body A is used as the installation portion of the process cartridge 5. The opening and closing door 3 is rotatably arranged relative to the printer body A, and Figure 5 2 shows a state where the opening and closing door 3 is opened. The printer body A includes guide parts 6 and 7. Figure 3 As shown, in the process cartridge 5, an upper boss 93 and a lower boss as convex portions protruding in the longitudinal direction are provided on one side surface in the longitudinal direction (left-right direction), and an upper boss 94 and a lower boss 96 are provided on the other side surface. The guide portion 6 is sandwiched by the upper boss 93 and the lower boss 95, and the guide portion 7 is sandwiched by the upper boss 94 and the lower boss 96, so that the process cartridge 5 can be guided by the guide portions 6 and 7 while moving along the guide portion 7. Figure 5 Once the opening and closing door 3 is closed after the process cartridge 5 is inserted, an image can be formed. The process cartridge 5 is removed in the reverse process to the above.

[0087] Structure of the developing frame member of the cartridge

[0088] Will refer to Figure 4 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The configuration of the developing frame member constituting the developer storage chamber 152 of the developing unit 15 is described. Figure 6 It is a cross-sectional view showing a divided structure of the developing cover 22 . Figure 7 1 and 2 are views showing the connection portions between the developer container 21 and the development cover 22, and are views viewed from the opposing portion side of each connection portion (the side where each opening portion is opened).

[0089] As shown in the figure, the developing frame part (container of the developing unit 15) includes a developer container 21 as a resin first frame body (which holds the developing roller 16 and the developing scraper 17 as main components), and a developing cover 22 as a resin second frame body (which occupies a large frame of the developer storage chamber 152).

[0090] The internal space of the developing frame member, in particular, the developer storage chamber (developer storage portion) 152 is formed by connecting the internal space of the developer container 21 and the internal space of the developing cover 22. The developer container 21 has an opening (first opening) 21o that opens its internal space, and similarly, the developing cover 22 has an opening (second opening) 22o that opens its internal space. The opening 21o of the developer container 21 is an opening for communicating the interior of the developer container 21 with the interior of the developing cover 22, and the opening 22o of the developing cover 22 is an opening for communicating the interior of the developing cover 22 with the interior of the developer container 21. That is, the opening 21o and the opening 22o are connected to each other so that the internal space of the developer container 21 and the internal space of the developing cover 22 are communicated with each other.

[0091] The developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 are connected to each other by airtightly connecting the opening edge portions of the openings 21o and 22o. The connecting surface 21L (first surface) forming an annular connecting line is arranged at the opening edge portion of the opening 21o of the developer container 21 in a manner surrounding the opening 21o of the developer container 21. Similarly, the connecting surface 22L (second surface) forming an annular connecting line is arranged at the opening edge portion of the opening 22o of the developer cover 22 in a manner surrounding the opening 22o of the developer cover 22. The connecting surface 21L includes a flat surface portion 21Lf extending in a plane, an inclined surface portion 21Li extending in a direction inclined relative to the flat surface portion 21Lf, a curved surface portion 21Lc extending in a curved surface shape, and the like. That is, the connecting surface 21L is a connecting surface whose height changes in a direction facing the connecting surface 22L. Similarly, the connection surface 22L includes a flat surface portion 22Lf extending in a plane, an inclined surface portion 22Li extending in a direction inclined relative to the flat surface portion 22Lf, a curved surface portion 22Lc extending in a curved surface shape, etc. That is, the connection surface 22L is a connection surface whose height varies in a direction facing the connection surface 21L.

[0092] That is, the connection surface 21L of the developing unit 15 in the present embodiment includes a flat surface portion 21Lf and an inclined portion (e.g., an inclined surface portion 21Li and a curved surface portion 21Lc) located at a position different from the flat surface portion 21Lf in the direction along the opening edge portion of the opening 22o. The inclined portion (e.g., the inclined surface portion 21Li and the curved surface portion 21Lc) is a shape portion including a portion extending in a direction away from the flat surface portion 21Lf toward a direction along the opening edge portion of the opening 22o with respect to a direction orthogonal to the flat surface portion 21Lf. The inclined surface portion 21Li and the curved surface portion 21Lc are examples of such an inclined portion. The curved surface portion 21Lc is a portion that forms a curved surface at a position different from the flat surface portion 21Lf in the connection surface 21L in the direction along the opening edge portion of the opening 22o. The inclined surface portion 21Li is a portion that forms a planar surface having a different angle than the planar surface formed by the planar surface portion 21Lf at a position different from the planar surface portion 21Lf and the curved surface portion 21Lc in a direction along the opening edge portion of the opening 22o.

[0093] On the surface of the connection surface 21L of the developer container 21, a rib (convex portion) 21a is provided annularly along the extending direction of the connection surface 21L in a manner protruding from the surface of the connection surface 21L and surrounding the opening 21o. On the surface of the connection surface 22L of the developer cover 22, a groove portion (recessed portion) 22a is provided annularly along the extending direction of the connection surface 22L in a manner recessed from the surface of the connection surface 22L and surrounding the opening 22o. The annular rib 21a is inserted into the annular groove portion 22a, and the hot melt 43 as a connection member described later seals and connects these gaps, thereby forming an annular connection portion between the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22.

[0094] Here, the hot melt in this embodiment has lower rigidity than the material (e.g., ABS, polystyrene, etc.) used for the frame body, and is applied to the developing cover 22 side in a molten state at a high temperature in the assembly step of the cartridge. The Young's modulus, which is an index of rigidity, is 2000 to 3000 MPa for ABS and polystyrene as frame materials, while the Young's modulus of the hot melt in this embodiment is about 5 MPa at normal temperature, which is a sufficiently low value. In addition, when the temperature of the cartridge rises to about 40°C when the image forming apparatus is used, the hot melt further softens, and its Young's modulus is about 1 / 5.

[0095] As the developing cap, for example, Figure 6 As shown, in addition to the developer cover 22, developer covers 23 and 24 having developer storage portions of different volumes are prepared and selectively attached to the developer container 21 according to the specifications of the cartridge. Therefore, the shapes of the connecting portions of the developer covers 22 to 24 and the developer container 21 are the same.

[0096] That is, the developing cover 23 has an opening 23o as a second opening configured in the same manner as the opening 22o of the developing cover 22, and has an annular connecting surface 23L as a second surface configured in the same manner as the connecting surface 22L of the developing cover 22 at an opening edge portion thereof. The connecting surface 23L includes a flat surface portion 23Lf configured similarly to the flat surface portion 22Lf of the developing cover 22, an inclined surface portion 23Li configured similarly to the inclined surface portion 22Li of the developing cover 22, a curved surface portion 23Lc configured similarly to the curved surface portion 22Lc of the developing cover 22, and the like.

[0097] Similarly, the developer cover 24 has an opening 24o as a second opening configured similarly to the opening 22o of the developer cover 22, and has an annular connecting surface 24L as a second surface configured similarly to the connecting surface 22L of the developer cover 22 at an opening edge portion thereof. The connecting surface 24L includes a flat surface portion 24Lf configured similarly to the flat surface portion 22Lf of the developer cover 22, an inclined surface portion 24Li configured similarly to the inclined surface portion 22Li of the developer cover 22, a curved surface portion 24Lc configured similarly to the curved surface portion 22Lc of the developer cover 22, and the like.

[0098] Structure of the connecting portion of the developing frame member

[0099] Next, we will refer to Figure 1 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 Describe the details of the connection part. Figure 1 4 is a schematic cross section showing a detailed configuration of a connecting portion, and is a view showing a step of applying the hot melt 43 . Figure 8 It is a perspective view showing a divided configuration of a developing frame member.

[0100] Here, in the case of preparing a plurality of units having different toner capacities, the frame body having common parts such as a developing blade, a cleaning blade, etc. needs to be made smaller in accordance with the small capacity. In order to eliminate unnecessary space, it is effective that the connection surface (connection line) between the frame bodies is not a simple connection between flat surfaces (the connection line is a combination of straight lines), but is as follows Figure 8 A line avoiding various components is arranged as shown. In the case of forming such a connecting line, it is difficult to adopt ultrasonic welding as a general joining method. That is, in ultrasonic welding, it is difficult to complicate the shape of the welding horn and to set a space for a receiving part, etc., and ultrasonic welding cannot be easily constructed, and even if ultrasonic welding can be constructed, high precision of the connecting surface is required. In addition, the greater the difference in toner capacity, the greater the difference in unit size. Therefore, in the structure of assembling other components after the frame body is connected (joined), the device cost and workload for conveying lines, settings, etc. corresponding to different unit sizes will be generated.

[0101] like Figure 1As shown in FIG. 2C, a groove portion (recess) 22a for applying the hot melt 43 is provided in the developer cap 22 in such a manner as to extend on the connection surface 22L along the extension direction of the connection surface 22L. In the developer container 21, a rib (convex portion) 21a inserted into the groove portion 22a in a state connected to the developer cap 22 is provided on the connection surface 21L in such a manner as to extend along the extension direction of the connection surface 21L. The groove portion (recess) may be provided in the developer container 21, and the rib (convex portion) may be provided in the developer cap 22. That is, it is sufficient to provide the rib on one connection surface of the developer container 21 and the developer cap 22, and to provide the groove on the other connection surface.

[0102] Figure 1 The state shown in C is a state in which the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 are connected airtightly. In this connection state, a gap is provided between the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 as shown by L1 to L5 in the figure. That is, the connection surface 21L of the developer container 21 and the connection surface 22L of the developer cover 22 face each other with a gap in the joining direction between the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22. More specifically, between the connection surface 21L and the connection surface 22L, a gap L1 is formed on the outside of the frame with respect to the area where the rib 21a and the groove portion 22a fit, and a gap L2 is formed on the inside of the frame. Between the rib 21a and the groove portion 22a, a gap L3 is formed between the side surface 21a1 of the rib 21a on the outside of the frame and the groove side surface 22h of the groove portion 22a on the outside of the frame, and a gap L4 is formed between the side surface 21a1 of the rib 21a on the inside of the frame and the groove side surface 22h of the groove portion 22a on the inside of the frame. In addition, a gap L5 is formed between the end of the rib 21a and the groove bottom surface 22i of the groove portion 22a. That is, the rib 21a is inserted into the groove portion 22a so that the end surface 21a2 of the rib 21a and the groove bottom surface 22i of the groove 22a do not contact each other and a space is left therebetween. In order to fill at least a part of these gaps, the hot melt 43 is provided between the rib 21a and the groove portion 22a in a manner of contacting at least both of the end surface 21a2 of the rib 21a and the groove bottom surface 22i of the groove portion 22a.

[0103] That is, the developer container 21 and the developer cap 22 are integrated with each other by the hot melt 43 as a connecting member.

[0104] In addition, if Figure 7 A and Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 2B, the rib 21a and the groove portion 22a provided in the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 are formed over the entire circumference of the annular connecting portion, and Figure 1 The connection cross section shown in C is also constructed over the entire circumference of the connection part.

[0105] In addition, the developer container 21 is provided with a positioning boss 21b (first engaging portion), a positioning boss 21c (second engaging portion), and a fixing rib 21d (third engaging portion) as a positioning portion (engaging portion). In addition, the developer cover 22 is provided with a positioning hole 22b (first engaged portion), a rotation stop hole 22c (second engaged portion), and a fixing portion 22d (third engaged portion) as a positioning portion (engaged portion). Although the details will be described later, the developer cover 22 is held by the engagement of the components. Figure 1 C shows gaps L1 to L5.

[0106] In addition, the connection portion of the unit frame body in this embodiment is not composed of a combination of simple linear connection surfaces. Specifically, Figure 8 and Fig.10 As shown in Figure 1A, the three-dimensional connection surface is formed by a combination of inclined surfaces and curves so as to avoid the cylindrical portion 21e as the supporting portion of the stirring member 154 provided in the developer container 21, the attachment hole 22k of the remaining amount detecting member 155 attached to the developer cover 22, and the like. That is, the connection surface 21L of the developer container 21 includes the protruding curved surface portions 21Lc and the inclined surface portions 21Li on both sides thereof at the two longitudinal ends of the developer container 21, and includes a flat surface portion 21Lf extending in the longitudinal direction between the two longitudinal ends. The connection surface 22L of the developer cover 22 facing these surfaces includes the recessed curved surface portions 22Lc and the inclined surface portions 22Li on both sides thereof at the two longitudinal ends, and includes a flat surface portion 22Lf extending in the longitudinal direction between the two longitudinal ends (see Figure 1B). Figure 7 For this reason, when ultrasonic welding, which is a general joining method, is adopted, a device such as a complicated welding head or multiple welding heads, a space for a receiving part, etc. are required, so the technical difficulty is high.

[0107] Method for manufacturing a developing unit

[0108] Hereinafter, a method for manufacturing the developing unit 15 and a positioning structure of the frame body according to the present embodiment will be described in detail. It is to be noted that many parts such as a stirring part, a sealing part, and a gear are assembled to the developing unit 15, but the assembling method of the parts related to the main parts in the developing unit 15 according to the present embodiment will be described here, and other parts will be appropriately omitted.

[0109] First step: Assembly of the developing blade (attachment step)

[0110] Will refer to Fig. 9 and Fig.10 A step of assembling the developing blade (developer regulating member) 17 to the developer container 21 is described. Fig. 9is an exploded perspective view showing an assembled configuration of a developing blade, and Fig.10 It is an exploded perspective view showing a state immediately before a second process to be described later is performed.

[0111] First, if Fig. 9 As shown, a blade back seal 25, an end seal 26, and a blowout prevention member 27, which are sealing members for sealing the periphery of the developing opening 21f of the developer container 21, are attached. Then, the developing scraper 17 is assembled as shown in the figure and fixed with a screw 41. In the present embodiment, the developing scraper 17 is attached to the developer container 21 before the developing frame member is joined. In general ultrasonic joining, the developing scraper 17 and the blowout prevention member 27 are assembled after the frame body is joined to prevent deterioration of positional accuracy, so that joining is performed while correcting the dimensional error and warpage influence of the connecting portion. Then, the developing roller, gears, and other components are assembled, and most of the components constituting the developing unit 15 are assembled to the developer container 21, thereby obtaining Fig.10 The state of the developing subunit 20 is shown.

[0112] Second step: coating the connecting member on the developing cover (coating step, molten resin supplying step)

[0113] The following will refer to Figure 1 , Figure 7 and Fig.11 The coating configuration (supply configuration) of the hot melt 43 as the connecting member of the developing cap 22 is described. Fig.11 is a perspective view showing a coating step.

[0114] As reference Figure 7 As described above, the groove portion 22a is formed in the developing cover 22 over the entire circumference of the opening portion of the frame body so as to apply the hot melt 43 as a molten resin. Although the entire image of the coating device is not shown, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 As shown in A, relative to the groove portion 22a, the coating nozzle 81a of the coating device 81 is brought close to the groove portion 22a. Fig.11 The illustrated buffer portion 22a1 is used as a starting point, the coating nozzle 81a is relatively moved with respect to the groove portion 22a in the extending direction of the annular groove portion 22a, and the hot melt 43 is applied at once and sequentially in the direction of the arrow in the figure.

[0115] Since the buffer portion 22a1 is coated with the hot melt 43 in an overlapping manner at the start and end of coating to seal the developer, the buffer portion 22a1 is made larger than Figure 1The groove depth shown is deeper to widen the space for accommodating the hot melt 43 in the groove portion 22a. In addition, in the present embodiment, since the connection portion has an inclined portion, it is also necessary to coat the inclined surface, but since the coating amount of the hot melt 43 is an amount that also contacts the inner wall of the groove, the influence of the drooping flow due to the adhesiveness of the hot melt is small.

[0116] Third step: connection between developer container and developer cover (joining step)

[0117] Next, we will refer to Figure 7 , Fig.10 , Fig.12 , Fig.13 and Fig.14 The connection process and positioning structure of the developer container 21 and the developer cap 22 are described. Fig.12 It is an enlarged perspective view of the vicinity of the positioning boss 21 b and the positioning hole 22 b which are the positioning portions of the developer container 21 and the developer cap 22 . Fig.13 It is an enlarged perspective view of the vicinity of the positioning boss 21 c and the rotation stop hole 22 c as the positioning portion of the developer container 21 and the developer cap 22 . Fig.14 It is an enlarged perspective view of the vicinity of the fixing rib 21 d and the fixing portion 22 d which are the fixing portions between the developer container 21 and the developing cover 22 .

[0118] The developing cap 22 to which the hot melt 43 is applied is as follows when the hot melt 43 is in a molten state. Fig.10 A is assembled to the developing subunit 20 and becomes Fig.10 The state shown in B. By this assembly, the rib 21 a is inserted into the groove portion 22 a so that at least the tip portion of the rib 21 a is immersed in the molten hot melt 43 .

[0119] like Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 2B, the developer container 21 is provided with a first abutting surface 21g, a second abutting surface 21h, and a third abutting surface 21j as a first abutting portion (first abutting surface). Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 1A , the developer cover 22 is provided with a first abutting surface 22e, a second abutting surface 22f, and a third abutting surface 22g as a second abutting portion (second abutting surface) at a position facing the abutting surface. These abutting surfaces constitute the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 with respect to the assembly direction ( Figure 1B). That is, the first abutting surface 21g and the first abutting surface 22e abut each other, the second abutting surface 21h and the second abutting surface 22f abut each other, and the third abutting surface 21j and the third abutting surface 22g abut each other, thereby regulating the relative position of the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 in the assembling direction. The respective abutting surfaces are arranged on the outside of the connecting surface relative to the internal space of the frame body, that is, on the outside of the connecting surfaces 21L and 22L in the direction from the inside to the outside of the storage part of the frame body.

[0120] In addition, the developer container 21 is provided with a first positioning boss 21b and a second positioning boss 21c for controlling the position in the longitudinal direction (the direction parallel to the central axis of the photosensitive drum 11). On the other hand, in the developer cover 22, the positioning hole 22b is provided at a position facing the first positioning boss 21b, and the rotation stop hole 22c is provided at a position facing the second positioning boss 21c. The first positioning boss 21b and the second positioning boss 21c are configured to cooperate with each other in the longitudinal direction with as little gap as possible (with an extremely small gap), and serve as a base point for positioning in the longitudinal direction. On the other hand, the second positioning boss 21c and the rotation stop hole 22c are configured to cooperate with each other in the longitudinal direction with a gap having a larger margin than the first positioning boss 21b and the second positioning boss 21c. The first positioning boss 21b and the positioning hole 22b cooperate ( Fig.12 A to Fig.12 B), and the second positioning boss 21c and the rotation stop hole 22c cooperate ( Fig.13 A to Fig.13 As described above, the developer cover 22 is positioned relative to the developer container 21, and at this time, the connecting portion is moved from Figure 1 The state shown in B changes to Figure 1 C. Therefore, the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 are kept connected. Figure 1 C shows a state where the hot melt 43 is connected over the entire circumference of the connection portion.

[0121] That is, the joining step includes a moving step of relatively moving at least one of the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 relative to the other so that the tip portion of the rib 21a is immersed in the molten hot melt 43. In addition, the moving step includes a positioning step of positioning the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 relative to each other.

[0122] Fourth step: fixing the developer container and the developer cover (joining step)

[0123] Next, we will refer to Fig.12 , Fig.13 and Fig.14A method of fixing the developer container 21 and the developing cover 22 is described. The fixing portion is provided at the same position as the three abutting surfaces (near the respective abutting surfaces). First, the fixing of the positions of the first abutting surfaces 21g and 22e will be described.

[0124] like Fig.12 As shown in FIG. 2B , the positioning boss 21b of the developer container 21 is provided with a first pressing portion 21b1 serving as a fixing portion (engaging portion). On the other hand, a first engaged portion 22b1 is provided at the edge of the positioning hole 22b of the developer cover 22. Fig.12 In the state of B, the first crimping portion 21b1 is heated and deformed by a heating unit (not shown) until it is engaged with the first engaged portion 22b1 ( Fig.12 C). Thus, the deformed first crimping portion 21b1 functions as a retainer, and in particular, the first abutting surfaces 21g and 22e arranged in the vicinity thereof are fixed in a manner restricted from being separated from each other. That is, the relative movement of the first abutting surface 21g (first abutting surface) and the first abutting surface 22e (second abutting surface) in a direction intersecting the first abutting surface 21g or the first abutting surface 22e is restricted by the retaining function of the first crimping portion 21b1.

[0125] Similarly, in the second abutment surfaces 21h and 22f, as shown in FIG. Fig.13 B and Fig.13 As shown in FIG. 2 , the second crimping portion 21c1 provided in the second positioning boss 21c is heated and deformed to engage with the second engaged portion 22c1 provided at the edge of the rotation stop hole 22c. Thus, the deformed second crimping portion 21c1 serves as a retainer, and the second abutting surfaces 21h and 22f are fixed in a manner that is restricted from being separated from each other. That is, the relative movement of the second abutting surface 21h (first abutting surface) and the second abutting surface 22f (second abutting surface) in the direction intersecting the second abutting surface 21h or the second abutting surface 22f is restricted by the retaining function of the second crimping portion 21c1.

[0126] Next, the fixing of the third abutment surfaces 21j and 22g will be described. Fig.14As shown in Figure A, a fixing rib 21d as an engaging portion is provided on the third abutting surface 21j on the developer container 21 side, and a fixing portion 22d as an engaged portion is provided on the third abutting surface 22g of the developer cover 22. Here, in a case where the third abutting surfaces 21j and 22g abut against each other, the fixing rib 21d and the fixing portion 22d have a gap in the longitudinal direction, and therefore do not participate in the control in the longitudinal direction. Subsequently, the fixing rib 21d is heated and deformed to engage with the fixing portion 22d, thereby completing the fixation for restricting the third abutting surfaces 21j and 22g arranged near it from being separated from each other. Thereafter, the remaining parts are assembled. In the present embodiment, the assembly Figure 3 A is a bearing component 90 shown.

[0127] Description of retainer snap fit

[0128] Here, in the present embodiment, three fixing portions are provided, but since the fixing portions are also used for positioning, the fixing portions are arranged at the ends in the longitudinal direction. For example, in the case where the temperature rises during transportation of the cartridge, or in the case of air transportation or high-altitude transportation, since the internal pressure of the developer storage chamber 152 sealed to prevent developer leakage increases, a load is applied in the direction in which the connection between the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 is released. At this time, the frame body may be deformed at the center portion away from the fixing portions in the longitudinal direction, and the connection may be disconnected. In the present embodiment, as Figure 8 As shown, a snap-fit ​​shape portion 21k as an engaging portion for holding is provided on the developer container 21 side, and a third engaged portion 22m is provided on the developer cover 22 side. In the connected state between the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22, the snap-fit ​​shape portion 21k and the third engaged portion 22m are engaged with each other to prevent disengagement of the connecting portion when the internal pressure in the developer storage chamber 152 increases.

[0129] Through the above-described joining step, the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 are positioned and fixed to each other, and the hot melt 43 is cooled and solidified (solidification step), whereby the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 are integrated and the frame body of the developer unit 15 is completed.

[0130] Fifth step: filling the developer in the developing unit (filling step)

[0131] Finally, a predetermined amount of developer is filled from the filling port 241 which is a hole portion provided in the developing cover 22 for filling the developer and is sealed with a cap member (not shown), whereby the developing unit 15 is in a completed state.

[0132] As described above, in the present embodiment, since the connecting parts can be applied to the connecting parts between the frame bodies at one time, it is possible to set the connecting surface (connecting line) while avoiding the parts assembled to the developer container 21, for example. That is, according to the present embodiment, the degree of freedom in designing the joining line of the unit frame body is improved. Accordingly, since a complex joining surface can be formed, a box with a smaller capacity can be prepared, which contributes to the miniaturization of the box. In addition, since the hot melt 43 is not applied to the developer container 21 side where most of the parts are assembled, but is applied to the developer cover 22 side, the coating device 81 does not interfere with other parts during coating. In the case of such a complex joining line, it is difficult to perform joining by ultrasonic welding as an alternative due to the split multi-head welding head, the space of the receiving part, etc.

[0133] In addition, after most of the parts are assembled to the developer container 21, the step of connecting the frame member (developer cover 22 in this embodiment) that determines the size of the developer unit 15 is performed in the second half of the assembly sequence, so that the common part of the production line can be increased. Thus, when manufacturing cartridges with different capacities on the same production line, the equipment over-cost and the trouble of changing the settings can be reduced.

[0134] In addition, if Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 2C, a gap is provided between the groove portion 22a formed in the developer cover 22 and the rib 21a formed in the developer container 21, and the hot melt 43 is in a molten state when applied, so that the influence of component tolerance and warpage can be absorbed. Thus, even in the step of connecting the frame members to each other, the connecting portions do not interfere, and the load applied to the developer container 21 is small, so that the influence on the position accuracy of the developing blade 17 and the ejection prevention member 27 can be reduced.

[0135] In addition, the hot melt 43 has a property of softening at high temperatures. In the present embodiment, the hot melt is selected to have a rigidity of about 1 / 5 in a state where the temperature of the cartridge is increased when used in the image forming apparatus. Thus, even if the deformation between the frame bodies is different due to the difference in thermal expansion when the temperature is increased due to the difference in shape between the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22, the deformation can be absorbed by the gap between the connecting parts and the softened connecting parts therebetween, and the influence on the positional accuracy of the parts can be reduced and the sealing performance can be achieved.

[0136] In addition, in the case where the connection surface between the frames has an inclined surface, the coating amount of the groove portion 22a of the hot melt 43 is such that the three surfaces (the bottom surface 22i and the two side surfaces 22h ( Figure 1C)) Amount of contact. Thus, the hot melt 43 can be applied in a uniform amount over the entire circumference, with less influence of droop flow due to the adhesiveness of the hot melt 43 as a hot melt.

[0137] In this embodiment, both the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 are constructed to have a recessed frame body metering portion with an opening portion, but the present invention can also be applied to a construction in which one of the two is a frame body (such as a cover) having a flat shape and closes the other opening portion.

[0138] Second embodiment

[0139] The configuration and manufacturing method of the cleaning unit according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. It should be noted that the overall configuration of the image forming apparatus body and the cartridge in the second embodiment is similar to that in the first embodiment, so the description thereof will be omitted. Here, the differences from the first embodiment in the second embodiment will be described, and the description of the common points in the second embodiment with the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0140] Cleaning frame body structure

[0141] Will refer to Figure 4 and Fig.16 A cleaning frame constituting the waste toner storage portion 14 of the cleaning unit 10 is described. Fig.16 2 is a diagram showing an example of a divided structure of a cleaning frame body.

[0142] like Figure 4 As shown, the cleaning unit 10 includes a photosensitive drum 11 as main components, a charging roller 12, and a cleaning blade 13 as a cleaning component. The cleaning frame body includes a cleaning container 51 as a first frame body that holds these main components, and a cleaning cover 52 (which occupies a large frame of the waste toner storage portion 14) as a second frame body. A hot melt 44 as a connecting component to be described later is arranged on the entire circumference of the connecting portion between the cleaning container 51 and the cleaning cover 52.

[0143] Here, similarly to the first embodiment, in this embodiment, hot melt has low rigidity compared to the material used for the frame body (eg, ABS, polystyrene, etc.), and is applied to the cleaning cover 52 side in a molten state at a high temperature in the assembling step of the cartridge.

[0144] As a cleaning cover, e.g. Fig.16 As shown, the cleaning cover 53 having the waste toner storage portion 14 of different volumes is prepared and selectively attached to the cleaning container 51 according to the specifications of the cartridge. Therefore, the shape of the connecting portion of the cleaning covers 52 and 53 is the same.

[0145] That is, the cleaning container 51 has an opening 51o as a first opening (opening portion), and has an annular connecting surface 51L ( Fig.17 B) The connection surface 51L includes a flat surface portion 51Lf, an inclined surface portion 51Li, a curved surface portion 51Lc, and the like.

[0146] In addition, the cleaning cover 52 is a frame body connected to the cleaning container 51 in a manner covering the opening 51o of the cleaning container 51 and forming a storage portion for storing the developer together with the cleaning container 51. The cleaning cover 52 has an opening 52o as a second opening, and has an annular connection surface 52L ( Fig.17 A) The connection surface 52L is a connection surface extending in the direction in which the connection surface 51L extends while facing the connection surface 51L, and includes a flat surface portion 52Lf, an inclined surface portion 52Li, a curved surface portion 52Lc, and the like.

[0147] Similarly, the cleaning cover 53 has an opening 53o as a second opening configured similarly to the opening 52o of the cleaning cover 52, and has an annular connecting surface 53L as a second surface configured similarly to the connecting surface 52L of the cleaning cover 52 at an opening edge portion thereof. The connecting surface 53L includes a flat surface portion 53Lf configured similarly to the flat surface portion 52Lf of the cleaning cover 52, an inclined surface portion 53Li configured similarly to the inclined surface portion 52Li of the cleaning cover 52, a curved surface portion 53Lc configured similarly to the curved surface portion 52Lc of the cleaning cover 52, and the like.

[0148] Cleaning frame body connection part

[0149] Will refer to Fig.15 , Fig.17 and Fig. 20 Describe the details of the connection part. Fig.15 is a schematic cross section showing a detailed configuration of a connecting portion in the second embodiment. Fig.17 1 and 2 are diagrams showing a connection portion between the cleaning container 51 and the cleaning cover 52 , and are views of the respective connection portions as viewed from the opposing portion side. Fig. 20 is a perspective view showing a divided configuration of a cleaning frame body.

[0150] like Fig.15 As shown, the connection portion in this embodiment includes a rib 51a of the cleaning container 51, a groove portion 52a of the cleaning cover 52, and a connection member 44 ( Fig.15 ).like Fig.17As shown in FIG. 1B , the rib 51a is formed annularly on the annular connecting surface 51L surrounding the opening 51o of the cleaning container 51. Fig.17 As shown in FIG. 5A , a groove portion 52a is annularly formed on an annular connecting surface 52L surrounding an opening 52o of the cleaning cover 52. The cleaning container 51 and the cleaning cover 52 are integrally connected by the hot melt 44, but the details of the cross-sectional configuration are similar to those in the first embodiment with reference to FIG. Figure 1 The structure described is omitted.

[0151] Method for manufacturing a cleaning unit

[0152] Hereinafter, a method for manufacturing the cleaning unit 10 in this embodiment and a positioning configuration of the frame body will be described in detail. Note that a method of assembling the main parts of the cleaning unit 10 according to this embodiment will be described here, and other parts will be appropriately omitted.

[0153] First step: Assembly of the cleaning blade (attachment step)

[0154] Will refer to Fig.18 and Fig.19 A procedure for assembling the cleaning blade 13 as a cleaning member to the cleaning container 51 is described. Fig.18 is an exploded perspective view showing an assembled configuration of the cleaning blade 13, and Fig.19 : is an exploded perspective view showing a state of the cleaning subunit 50 immediately before a second step to be described later is performed.

[0155] First, if Fig.18 As shown, an end seal 55, an end auxiliary seal 56 and a sheet member 57, which are sealing members for sealing the periphery of the opening portion of the cleaning container 51, are attached. Then, the cleaning scraper 13 is assembled as shown and fixed with screws 42. In the present embodiment, the cleaning scraper 13 is attached to the cleaning container 51 before the cleaning frame body is connected. In a general ultrasonic welding joint, since the joint is performed while correcting the dimensional error and the influence of warpage of the connecting portion, the cleaning scraper 13 and the sheet member 57 are assembled after the frame body is joined in order to prevent the deterioration of the positional accuracy. Then, the charging roller 12 and other parts are assembled to the cleaning container 51, and the cleaning scraper 13 is obtained. Fig.19 The state of the cleaning subunit 50 is shown.

[0156] Second step: Applying the connection part to the clean cover (coating process)

[0157] Next, we will refer to Fig.11 and Fig.17 The configuration of applying the hot melt 44 to the cleaning cover 52 is described.

[0158] like Fig.17As shown in FIG. 1A, a groove portion 52a is formed in the cleaning cover 52 over the entire circumference of the opening portion of the frame body so as to apply the hot melt 44 as a molten resin. Fig.11 The configuration is described but not shown, but the connecting member 44 is applied to the groove portion 52a at once starting from the buffer portion 52a1.

[0159] Step 3: Connection between the cleaning container and the cleaning cover (joining step)

[0160] Next, we will refer to Fig.17 , Fig. 20 and Fig.21 The connection procedure and positioning structure of the cleaning container 51 and the cleaning cover 52 are described. Fig.21 1 is an enlarged perspective view of the vicinity of the positioning portion and the fixing portion of the cleaning container 51 and the cleaning cover 52 .

[0161] The cleaning cover 52 to which the hot melt 44 is applied is as follows when the hot melt 43 is in a molten state. Fig. 20 A is assembled to the cleaning subunit 50 and becomes Fig. 20 The state shown in B. By this assembly, the rib 51 a is inserted into the groove portion 52 a so that at least the tip portion of the rib 51 a is immersed in the molten hot melt 44 .

[0162] like Fig.17 As shown in FIG. 2B , the cleaning container 51 is provided with a first abutting surface 51g, a second abutting surface 51h and a third abutting surface 51j as a first abutting portion. Fig.17 As shown in FIG. 1 , the cleaning cover 52 is provided with a first abutting surface 52e, a second abutting surface 52f and a third abutting surface 52g as a second abutting portion at a position facing the abutting surface. These abutting surfaces constitute the cleaning container 51 and the cleaning cover 52 relative to the assembly direction (with respect to FIG. Figure 1 B). That is, the first abutting surface 51g and the first abutting surface 52e abut each other, the second abutting surface 51h and the second abutting surface 52f abut each other, and the third abutting surface 51j and the third abutting surface 52g abut each other, thereby controlling the relative positions of the cleaning container 51 and the cleaning cover 52 in the assembling direction.

[0163] In addition, the cleaning container 51 is provided with a first positioning boss 51b and a second positioning boss 51c for controlling the position in the longitudinal direction (the direction parallel to the central axis of the photosensitive drum 11). In addition, the cleaning container 51 is provided with a third positioning boss 51d on the same side as the second positioning boss 51c in the longitudinal direction and at a position different from the second positioning boss 51c in the transverse direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction. On the other hand, in the cleaning cover 52, a positioning hole (long oval hole longer in the longitudinal direction) 52b is provided at a position facing the first positioning boss 51b, a rotation stop hole 52c is provided at a position facing the second positioning boss 51c, and a positioning hole (long oval hole longer in the transverse direction) 52d is provided at a position corresponding to the third positioning boss 51d. The first positioning boss 51b and the positioning hole 52b cooperate with each other, the second positioning boss 51c and the rotation stop hole 52c cooperate with each other, and the third positioning boss 51d and the positioning hole 52d cooperate with each other, thereby limiting the position in the longitudinal direction. As described above, the cleaning cover 52 is positioned relative to the cleaning container 51, and at this time, the connecting portion is in Fig.15 Displays the connection status.

[0164] Step 4: Fixing of the cleaning container and the cleaning cover (joining step)

[0165] Next, we will refer to Fig.21 Describe the method of fixing the cleaning container 51 and the cleaning cover 52. The fixing part is arranged at the same position as the above-mentioned three abutting surfaces. In the present embodiment, since the fixing method of the three fixing parts is the same, only one of the fixing parts of the first positioning boss 51b and the positioning hole 52b will be described.

[0166] like Fig.21 A and Fig.21 As shown in FIG. 1B , the first positioning boss 51b of the cleaning container 51 is fitted into the positioning hole 52b of the cleaning cover 52, and the abutting surface 51g and the abutting surface 52e abut against each other. Next, the positioning boss 51b is moved from the cleaning container 51 to the cleaning container 52 by a heating unit (not shown). Fig.21 The state shown in B is heated and deformed into Fig.21 C. Thus, the tip portion 51b1 of the deformed first positioning boss 51b serves as a retainer, the cleaning container 51 and the cleaning cover 52 are fixed, and the cleaning cover 52 and the cleaning subunit 50 are retained. Fig. 20 Thereafter, the remaining parts such as the photosensitive drum 11 and the bearing member 58 are assembled, thereby completing the cleaning unit 10 ( Fig. 22 ).

[0167] As described above, also in this embodiment, the hot melt 44 is not applied to the cleaning container 51 side where most parts are assembled, but is applied to the cleaning cover 52 side so that the coating device 81 does not interfere with other parts when applying the hot melt 44.

[0168] like Fig.15 As shown, similar to Figure 1 The developing unit 15 shown in FIG. 5 is provided with a predetermined gap between the groove portion 52a formed in the cleaning cover 52 and the rib 51a formed in the cleaning container 51. In addition, since the hot melt 44 is in a molten state when applied, the influence of component tolerance and warpage can be absorbed. Therefore, even in the step of connecting the frame bodies to each other, the connecting portions do not interfere with each other, and the load applied to the cleaning container 51 is small, so that the influence on the position accuracy of the cleaning blade 13 and the sheet member 57 can be reduced.

[0169] In addition, the hot melt 44 has a property of softening at high temperatures. Thus, as in the first embodiment, even if the deformation between the frame bodies is different due to the difference in thermal expansion when the temperature rises due to the difference in shape between the cleaning container 51 and the cleaning cover 52, the deformation can be absorbed by the gap between the connecting parts and the softened connecting parts therebetween, and the influence on the position accuracy of the parts can be reduced and the sealing performance can be achieved.

[0170] In addition, the step of connecting the frame body (cleaning cover 52 in the present embodiment) of determining the size of the cleaning unit 10 after assembling the main parts such as the cleaning scraper to the cleaning container 51 is adopted, so that the common part of the production line can be increased. Thus, when manufacturing boxes with different capacities on the same production line, the trouble of device over-cost and change of setting can be reduced.

[0171] Third embodiment

[0172] Here, the differences from the first and second embodiments will be described, and the description of the common points in the third embodiment will be omitted.

[0173] Figure 2 The illustrated toner cartridge C supplies developer to the developing unit 15 through a path (not shown), and recovers recovered toner recovered by the cleaning unit 10 through a path (not shown).

[0174] like Fig.23As shown in FIG. 1A , the toner cartridge C includes a toner frame 60 having a developer storage chamber, a waste toner frame 61 storing recovered toner, a gear unit 62 driving a stirring member provided in the toner frame 60, and a shutter unit 63 opening and closing an opening portion for supplying developer from the toner frame 60. Fig.23 As shown in FIG. 2B , a stirring member 60 c is provided in the toner frame 60 , and a waste toner frame 61 , a gear unit 62 , and a shutter unit 63 are fixed in the toner frame 60 .

[0175] like Fig.24 As shown, the toner frame 60 includes a toner container 60a and a toner cover 60b, and is integrally formed with the hot melt 45 interposed therebetween. Then, a rib 60a1 as a connecting portion is formed on the toner container 60a side of the assembly component, and a groove portion 60b1 for applying the hot melt 45 as the hot melt material 45 is formed on the entire circumference of the connecting portion on the toner cover 60b side. The rib (convex portion) 60a1 is provided on an annular connecting surface (first surface) formed on the opening edge portion of the opening (first opening) of the toner container (first frame body) 60a. The groove portion (recess) 60b1 is provided on a connecting surface (second surface) at the opening edge of the opening (second opening) formed in the toner cover (second frame body) 60b. Similar to the connecting surfaces of the first embodiment and the second embodiment, each connecting surface includes a flat surface portion, an inclined surface portion, and a curved surface portion. Here, a plurality of toner covers (not shown) having different sizes are prepared.

[0176] By configuring the toner cartridge C as described above, the toner cap 60b to which the hot melt 45 is applied can be assembled after the respective units and components are assembled.

[0177] As described above, after assembling the components to the toner container 60a, the frame body (toner cover in this embodiment) that determines the size of the toner cartridge C can be connected, thereby increasing the common parts of the production line. This makes it possible to reduce the equipment cost and the trouble of changing the settings when manufacturing toner cartridges with different capacities on the same production line.

[0178] Note that the cross-sectional configuration, fixing method, and the like of the connection portion between the toner container 60 a and the toner cover 60 b are similar to those described in the first and second embodiments, and thus description thereof will be omitted.

[0179] In particular, according to the order of the manufacturing steps in this embodiment, before the molten resin supply step, the developer blade 17 requiring high attachment position accuracy is first assembled to the developer container 21 as the first frame body. Thereafter, the developer cover 22 as the second frame body is attached to the developer container 21 using hot melt 43.

[0180] In this case, for example, in the case where the developer cover 22 and the developer container 21 are assembled while being restrained in the longitudinal direction, there is a case where the developer container 21 follows the developer cover 22 that is thermally expanded due to the heat of the hot melt 43, and the attachment position of the developer blade 17 is affected. Therefore, in the present manufacturing step sequence, it is necessary to consider reducing the position fluctuation of the developer blade 17 due to the heat of the hot melt 43 at the time of assembly. Specifically, in the present configuration, it is preferable that the thermal expansion of the developer cover 22 due to the heat of the hot melt 43 does not affect the developer container 21 as much as possible.

[0181] In order to solve these problems, a method for locking the developer container and the developing cover will be described in detail below.

[0182] Fourth embodiment

[0183] Here, the differences from the first to third embodiments will be mainly described in the fourth embodiment, and the description of the common points with the first to third embodiments may be omitted.

[0184] Connection between developer container and developer cover (locked by heat deformation)

[0185] As another embodiment of the developing cover locking method, reference will be made to Fig.25 and Fig.26 Describe the details of the locking unit deformed by heating. Fig.25 A is a perspective view of the developing unit 15b. Fig.25 B to Fig.25 D is Fig.25 A is an enlarged view of the DL1 section. Fig.25 B shows a state before the developing cap 22 and the developer container 21 are connected. Fig.25 C shows a state where the second positioning boss 21c and the rotation stop hole 22c are fitted with each other. Fig.25 D shows a state after the second positioning boss 21c is heated and deformed. Fig.26 A is a perspective view of the developing unit 15b.

[0186] Fig.26 B to connection 26D is Fig.26 A is an enlarged view of the DL1 section. Fig.26 B shows a state before the developing cap 22 and the developer container 21 are connected. Fig.26 C shows a state where the fixing rib 21d and the fixing portion 22d are engaged. Fig.26 D shows a state after the fixing rib 21d is heated and deformed.

[0187] Similar to the developing unit 15 of the first embodiment, the second positioning boss 21c is provided in the developer container 21 in the developing unit 15b of this embodiment. Figure 7 B, etc.), the second positioning boss 21c in the developer container 21 is arranged on the second abutment surface 21h provided on the developer container 21. Similar to the developer unit 15 of the first embodiment, the second abutment surface 21h is provided on the outside of the connection surface relative to the internal space of the frame body of the developer unit 15b, that is, provided on the outside of the connection surfaces 21L and 22L in the direction from the inside to the outside of the storage part of the frame body. Just as in the first embodiment, the connection surface 22L of the developer cover 22 of the developer unit 15b is provided with a groove portion (recess) 22a to which the hot melt 43 is applied. The connection surface 21L of the developer container 21 of the developer unit 15b is provided with a rib (protrusion) 21a which is inserted into the groove portion 22a in a state where the developer container 21 is connected to the developer cover 22.

[0188] Similar to the developing unit 15 in the first embodiment, a rotation stop hole 22c is provided in the developing cover 22 of the developing unit 15b of this embodiment. Figure 7 A, etc.), the rotation stop hole 22c is arranged in the developer cover 22 at the second abutment surface 22f provided on the developer cover 22, and is located facing the second positioning boss 21c of the developer container 21. Similar to the developer unit 15 of the first embodiment, the second abutment surface 22f is provided on the outside of the connection surface relative to the internal space of the frame body of the developer unit 15b, that is, provided on the outside of the connection surfaces 21L and 22L in the direction from the inside to the outside of the storage portion of the frame body.

[0189] Similar to the developing unit 15 of the first embodiment, the second positioning boss 21c is provided together with the first positioning boss 21b to control the position of the developer container 21 relative to the developing cover 22 in the longitudinal direction (the direction parallel to the central axis of the photosensitive drum 11). Similar to the developing unit 15 in the first embodiment, on the side opposite to the engaging portion (holding portion) between the first positioning boss 21b and the positioning hole 22b in the longitudinal direction of the developing unit 15b, the second positioning boss 21c and the rotation stop hole 22c form a holding portion by heating and deforming the pressing portion 21c1. That is, the rotation stop hole 22c is engaged with the pressing portion 21c1 of the second positioning boss 21c, and thereby serves to control the relative rotation between the developer container 21 and the developing cover 22 with the engaging portion between the first positioning boss 21b and the positioning hole 22b on the opposite side in the longitudinal direction of the developing unit 15b as a base point (the second abutment surfaces 21h and 22f are spaced apart from each other).

[0190] Similar to the developing unit 15 of the first embodiment, the fixing rib 21d is provided in the developer container 21 in the developing unit 15b of this embodiment. Figure 7 B, etc.), the fixing rib 21d is arranged in the developer container 21 on the third abutment surface 21j provided in the developer container 21. Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 1 , in the longitudinal direction of the developing unit 15 b, the third abutment surface 21 j (fixed rib 21 d) is arranged on the same side as the side on which the first abutment surface 21 g is arranged, and is arranged on the side opposite to the side on which the second abutment surface 21 h (second positioning boss 21 c) is arranged.

[0191] Similar to the developing unit 15 of the first embodiment, the fixing portion 22d is provided on the developing cover 22 in the developing unit 15b of this embodiment. Figure 7 A, etc.), the fixing portion 22d of the developing cover 22 is provided at a position which is a third abutting surface 22g provided on the developing cover 22 and faces the fixing rib 21d of the developer container 21.

[0192] Hereinafter, in the developing unit 15 b of the present embodiment, differences from other embodiments will be mainly described.

[0193] exist Fig.25 When the crimping portion 21c1 shown is deformed by heating, the heating condition is set to have a slight gap Gp between the second positioning boss 21c and the rotation stop hole 22c (as a coupling means to bring the developer container 21 and the developing cap 22 into contact with each other).

[0194] exist Fig.25 and Fig.26, the engagement direction (third direction) between the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 is defined as the Zd direction. The engagement direction (third direction) is also a direction that intersects (is orthogonal to) the first abutting surface 21g, the second abutting surface 21h, and the third abutting surface 21j as the first abutting surface. The longitudinal direction (second direction) of the developing unit orthogonal to the engagement direction is defined as the Yd direction, and the direction (first direction) orthogonal to (intersecting) both the engagement direction and the longitudinal direction is defined as the Xd direction. The longitudinal direction (second direction) of the developing unit is also a direction along the first abutting surface 21g, the second abutting surface 21h, and the third abutting surface 21j as the first abutting surface. It should be noted that the coordinate system (Xd, Yd, Zd) is only for the convenience of describing the configuration of the developing unit of this embodiment, and does not necessarily correspond to the coordinate system (Xc, Yc, Zc) used to explain the cleaning unit of another embodiment to be described later. However, in a state where the developing unit and the cleaning unit are attached to the main body of the image forming device, the Yd direction and the Yc direction are parallel to each other.

[0195] After the heat deformation, the pair of crimping portions 21c1 are unfolded so that their ends are separated from each other in a direction (Xd direction) orthogonal (intersecting) to each of the engagement direction (Zd direction) of the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 and the longitudinal direction (Yd direction) of the developer unit. The distance between the ends of the pair of crimping portions 21c1 after the heat deformation is greater than the width of the rotation stop hole 22c in the Xd direction (the distance of a pair of second engaged portions 22c1 in the Xd direction). Thus, when the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 attempt to separate from each other in the engagement direction, the end sides of the pair of crimping portions 21c1 are caught by the pair of second engaged portions 22c1 of the rotation stop hole 22c. Therefore, the separation between the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 is restricted.

[0196] Here, in the state where the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 are engaged, the pair of crimping portions 21c1 have a slight gap Gp1 between the pair of second engaged portions 22c1. More specifically, each of the pair of crimping portions 21c1 has an opposing surface 21c11 as a limiting surface, and each of the pair of second engaged portions 22c1 has an opposing surface 22c11 as a restricted surface. The opposing surface 21c11 and the opposing surface 22c11 are surfaces along the longitudinal direction as the second direction and surfaces along the Xd direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction and in a direction inclined relative to each of the Xd direction and the Zd direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction. The opposing surface 21c11 and the opposing surface 22c11 face each other in a direction orthogonal to the inclined direction to form a gap Gp1.

[0197] Since the gap Gp1 is provided, the positioning boss 21c and the rotation stop hole 22c are fused to each other when deformed by heating, and are not completely fixed (integrated). In the present embodiment, the gap Gp1 is set to about 0.1 to 1.5 mm.

[0198] Since the first positioning boss 21b and the positioning hole 22b are matched with each other in the longitudinal direction (second direction) with a gap as small as possible, relative movement is restricted. That is, the surface of the first positioning boss 21b facing the positioning hole 22b in the longitudinal direction is used as a limiting surface, and the surface of the positioning hole 22b facing the first positioning boss 21b in the longitudinal direction is used as a restricted surface, so that the relative movement between the first positioning boss 21b and the positioning hole 22b in the longitudinal direction is restricted. On the other hand, the second positioning boss 21c and the rotation stop hole 22c are configured to match each other in the longitudinal direction (second direction) with a gap therebetween, and are configured to allow relative movement within a predetermined range in the longitudinal direction (second direction). In addition, in the present embodiment, due to the gap Gp1, the second positioning boss 21c and the rotation stop hole 22c are loosely matched to allow relative movement within a predetermined range in a direction (including the first direction and the third direction) orthogonal (intersecting) to the longitudinal direction (second direction).

[0199] On the other hand, Fig.26 As shown, similar to the second positioning boss 21c and the rotation stop hole 22c, the fixing rib 21d and the fixing portion 22d are also configured to provide a gap Gp2 after the heating deformation. However, unlike the gap Gp1, the gap Gp2 is a gap that allows the fixing rib 21d and the fixing portion 22d to move relative to each other within a predetermined range in the longitudinal direction (second direction).

[0200] By heat deformation, the ends of the pair of fixing ribs 21d expand and separate from each other in the Yd direction which is the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge C. The distance between the ends of the pair of fixing ribs 21d after heat deformation is wider than the distance between the pair of fixing portions 22d in the longitudinal direction. Therefore, in the case where the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 are separated from each other in the engagement direction, the end sides of the pair of fixing ribs 21d are caught by the pair of fixing portions 22d. Therefore, the separation between the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 is restricted.

[0201] Here, in the state where the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 are engaged, the pair of fixing ribs 21d have a small gap Gp2 between the pair of fixing parts 22d. More specifically, each of the pair of fixing ribs 21d has an opposing surface 21d11 as a limiting surface, and each of the pair of fixing parts 22d has an opposing surface 22d11 as a restricted surface. The opposing surface 21d11 and the opposing surface 22d11 are surfaces along the Xd direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction and along the direction inclined relative to the longitudinal direction and the Zd direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction, respectively. The opposing surface 21d11 and the opposing surface 22d11 face each other in the direction orthogonal to the inclined direction to form the gap Gp2.

[0202] In addition, if Fig.26 As shown, the fixing portion 22d is a rectangular hole in the longitudinal direction, and has a U-shape in which one end side in the Xd direction orthogonal to (intersecting with) the longitudinal direction (Yd direction) is released.

[0203] The fixing rib 21d and the fixing portion 22d are loosely fitted by the gap Gp2 and the above-described square hole configuration, thereby allowing relative movement within a predetermined range in each of the longitudinal direction and a direction orthogonal (intersecting) the longitudinal direction.

[0204] By the above-mentioned construction, the second positioning boss 21c used as the engaging unit can be relatively moved in the rotation stop hole 22c along the longitudinal direction and the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction. Similarly, the fixed rib 21d and the fixed portion 22d can be relatively moved along the longitudinal direction and the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction. On the other hand, the first positioning boss 21b and the positioning hole 22b are configured so that the relative movement relative to each direction in the longitudinal direction and the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction is restricted, just as in the first embodiment. Thus, the relative movement of the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 within a predetermined range is allowed, and the developer container 21 will not follow the thermal expansion of the developer cover 22 caused by the heat of the hot melt 43, so that the size difference can be absorbed. Therefore, the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 can be stably assembled without affecting the attachment position of the developer scraper 17.

[0205] In this embodiment, similar to the first embodiment and the like, relative to the first positioning boss 21b and the positioning hole 22b arranged on one end side in the longitudinal direction (Yd direction) of the developing unit, the engaging portion formed by the positioning boss 21c and the rotation stop hole 22c is arranged on the other end side in the longitudinal direction (Yd direction) of the developing unit. Similar to the first embodiment and the like, the engaging portion between the fixing rib 21d and the fixing portion 22d is arranged closer to one end side in the longitudinal direction (Yd direction) of the developing unit between the first positioning boss 21b and the positioning hole 22b and the engaging portion between the second positioning boss 21c and the rotation stop hole 22c. Similar to the first embodiment (see Figure 7 ), each engaging portion is arranged near a corner between a line extending in the longitudinal direction and a line extending in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction in a connecting line of the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22. This arrangement is merely an example, and a more appropriate arrangement may be adopted depending on the configuration of the frame body, the shape of the opening edge portion, etc.

[0206] Even in the case where the gaps Gp1 and Gp2 are 0, in a state where the gaps Gp1 and Gp2 are not completely fixed and integrated, for example, when a polymer gasket (not shown) or the like is provided in the gaps Gp1 and Gp2 and the pressing force F in the cross-sectional direction is small, the above-mentioned relative movement between the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 is possible. Therefore, even if the developer cover 22 is thermally expanded, the developer cover is not restricted in the longitudinal direction relative to the developer container 21, and the purpose can be achieved.

[0207] That is, the predetermined range of relative movement between the developer container 21 and the developer cap 22 allowed by the gaps Gp1 and Gp2 can be said to be a range capable of achieving the above-mentioned objectives while ensuring the sealing performance and the integration therebetween.

[0208] In the case where the heating temperature is too high even though there are gaps Gp1 and Gp2, the positioning boss 21c and the rotation stop hole 22c may dissolve into each other and become one. In such a case, production conditions such as lowering the heating temperature of the heating tool and lowering the pressing pressure may be changed, and the above two components may be appropriately selected so as not to dissolve into each other.

[0209] As another embodiment, in addition to the crimping by heating as described above, a method of squeezing and locking the boss tip by pressure without applying heat may be employed.

[0210] Fifth embodiment

[0211] Here, the differences between the fifth embodiment and the first to fourth embodiments will be described, and the description of the common points in the fifth embodiment will be omitted.

[0212] Connection between developer container and developer cover (locked by snap-fit ​​claws)

[0213] The difference between the developing unit 15c according to the present embodiment and the developing unit according to other embodiments lies in the construction of the positioning parts (engaging parts and engaged parts) of the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22. Specifically, instead of the engagement construction including the positioning boss 21c and the rotation stop hole 22c in other embodiments, the present embodiment includes a first engagement construction using the positioning boss 221c (second engaging part) and the positioning hole 222c (second engaged part), and a second engagement construction using the snap-fit ​​claw 221p (fourth engaging part) and the positioning hole 222q (fourth engaged part). The two engagement constructions are configured to control two directions intersecting the longitudinal direction while allowing the relative movement of the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 within a predetermined range in the longitudinal direction.

[0214] Will refer to Fig. 27 , Fig.28 , Fig.29 and Fig.30 The details of the locking device in this embodiment are described. Fig. 27 is a perspective view of the appearance of the developing unit 15c in the fifth embodiment, Fig.28 yes Fig. 27 An enlarged view of the DL2 section, and Fig.29 is a diagram showing a locking configuration achieved by a snap-fit ​​claw on one end side of the developing unit. Fig.29 A is a view of one longitudinal end side of the developing unit viewed in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction, and Fig.29 B is a sectional view (sectional view taken along arrow A) of one longitudinal end side of the developing unit as viewed in the longitudinal direction (-Yd direction). Fig.29 C is Fig.29 B is an enlarged view of the DL2 - 1 portion and is a detailed view showing the force of the snap-fit ​​claw 221 p . Fig.29 D is Fig.29 B is an enlarged view of the DL2-1 portion, and is a detailed view showing a state midway through the coupling step between the developer container 21 and the developing cap 22 and showing a state immediately before the snap-fit ​​claw 221p is bent. Fig.30 A is Fig.30 B is an enlarged view of the DL2-2 section, viewed from above Fig. 27 Magnified view of the DL2 section. Fig.30B is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and Fig.29 The direction in A is a view of a longitudinal end side of the developing unit as viewed in different directions.

[0215] like Fig.28 As shown, a positioning boss 221c as a second engaging portion is provided in the developer container 21 as a first frame body, and a positioning hole 222c as a second engaged portion is provided in the developer cover 22 as a second frame body. The positioning boss 221c is a convex portion extending toward the developer cover 22 along the engaging direction (Zd direction) between the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22. The positioning hole 222c is a hole that penetrates in the engaging direction, and is configured so that the positioning boss 221c is inserted in the engaging direction. The positioning boss 221c has a limiting surface 221c1 facing the positioning hole 222c in the Xd direction (first direction) orthogonal (intersecting) to each of the engaging direction and the longitudinal direction, and the positioning hole 222c has a restricted surface 222c1 facing the limiting surface 221c1 in the Xd direction. The restricting surface 221c1 and the restricted surface 222c1 contact each other in the Xd direction, and the positioning boss 221c and the positioning hole 222c engage with each other, so that the relative movement between the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 in the Xd direction is restricted at least on one end side in the longitudinal direction.

[0216] The developer container 21 is provided with a snap-fit ​​claw 221p as a fourth engaging portion, and the developer cover 22 is provided with a positioning hole 222q as a fourth engaged portion. When the snap-fit ​​claw 221p is engaged with the positioning hole 222q, the relative movement of the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 in the Zd direction as the engaging direction of the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 (movement in the separation direction) is restricted at least on one end side in the longitudinal direction.

[0217] In addition, as a coupling unit for bringing the developer container 21 into contact (abutment) with the developer cover 22 in the engaging direction, the snap-fit ​​claw 221 p is configured to generate a force for maintaining a state in which the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 are in contact with each other.

[0218] In the developer container 21, the positioning boss 221c and the snap-fit ​​claw 221p are provided at positions close to each other. Similarly, in the developer cover 22, the positioning hole 222c and the positioning hole 222q are provided at positions close to each other.

[0219] like Fig.29As shown, the snap-fit ​​claw 221p is provided with an inclined surface 221p21 as an engagement force applying portion, and is locked to a ridge 222q1 as an engagement force receiving portion of the positioning hole 222q. The snap-fit ​​claw 221p includes an arm portion 221p1 extending toward the developer cover 22 side along the engagement direction of the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22, and a claw portion 221p2 protruding along a direction (-Xd direction) intersecting the engagement direction at the end side of the arm portion 221p1. The claw portion 221p2 is provided with an inclined surface 221p21. The positioning hole 222q is a hole that passes through in the engagement direction, and is configured so that the snap-fit ​​claw 221p is inserted in the engagement direction. The ridge 222q1 is provided at the edge of the opening portion of the positioning hole 222q, which is located on the downstream side of the insertion direction of the snap-fit ​​claw 221p.

[0220] The claw portion 221p2 of the snap-fit ​​claw 221p protrudes from the opening portion of the positioning hole 222q so as to protrude in a direction intersecting the insertion direction of the snap-fit ​​claw 221p (the engagement direction of the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22). The snap-fit ​​claw 221p has flexibility in the arrow +Xd direction, and in the step of engaging the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 ( Fig.29 D to Fig.29 C) elastic deformation that causes the snap-fit ​​claw 221p to bend in the +Xd direction. As a result, the claw portion 221p2 enters the positioning hole 222q, passes through the positioning hole 222q, and can reach a position where the inclined surface 221p21 contacts the ridge line 22q1. That is, in the step of engaging the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22, the snap-fit ​​claw 221p becomes a state of engagement with the positioning hole 222q through the elastic deformation state. As a result, the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 are locked to each other.

[0221] Here, the inclined surface 221p21 of the snap-fit ​​claw 221p is an inclined surface that is angled relative to a surface parallel to the flexible direction of the snap-fit ​​claw 221p. Therefore, a component force Fz of the force F generated by the reaction force of the bending of the snap-fit ​​claw 221p caused by the contact of the positioning hole 222q with the ridge line 22q1 is received and acts in the direction (arrow +Zd direction, that is, the engagement direction) in which the developer cover 22 and the developer container 21 are pulled toward each other. This is to prevent the positions of the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 from floating in the arrow (-Zd direction) opposite to the engagement direction at a time before the hot melt 43 is solidified.

[0222] like Fig.30 As shown, the width Ddb of the positioning hole 222q in the longitudinal direction and the width ddb of the snap-fit ​​claw 221p have the following relationship:

[0223] Ddb>ddb

[0224] Similarly, the width Dda of the positioning hole 222c and the width dda of the positioning boss 221c have the following relationship:

[0225] Dda>dda

[0226] This is because, when the hot melt 43 is in a high temperature state, even if a size difference in the longitudinal direction is generated due to the thermal expansion of the developer cover 222, the snap-fit ​​claw 221p and the positioning hole 222q, and the positioning hole 222c and the positioning boss 221c do not interfere with each other. That is, a gap in the longitudinal direction (Yd direction) of a predetermined range for preventing interference is formed between the snap-fit ​​claw 221p and the positioning hole 222q, and between the snap-fit ​​claw 221p and the positioning hole 222q. As a result, the snap-fit ​​claw 221p and the positioning hole 222q, and the positioning hole 222c and the positioning boss 221c can move relatively (slidably) within a predetermined range in the longitudinal direction.

[0227] It should be noted that when the component force Fz is small, floating occurs, and when the component force Fz is large, the relative movement between the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 is hindered, and there is a problem that a force in the longitudinal direction is applied to the developer container 121 due to the thermal expansion of the developer cover 22. Therefore, it is necessary to design the snap-fit ​​claw 221p within a range that satisfies both. In the present embodiment, the component force Fz is set within a range of 1 (N) to 50 (N), but it can be appropriately set according to the friction coefficient between the locking parts.

[0228] In addition, if Fig.29 As shown in FIG. 2 , before the snap-fit ​​claw 221p engages with the positioning hole 222q (before elastic deformation starts), the height of the positioning boss 221c is set so that the engagement of the positioning boss 221c and the positioning hole 222c starts. In this way, before the reaction force of the snap-fit ​​claw 221p is generated, the position of the developer cover 22 in the cross-sectional direction relative to the developer container 21 (the Xd direction intersecting the engagement direction of the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22) is first determined, and therefore, the assemblability is excellent.

[0229] With the above-described configuration, the developer container 21 does not follow the developer cover 22 that is thermally expanded due to the heat of the hot melt 43 , and the size difference therebetween is absorbed, thereby enabling assembly without affecting the attachment position of the developer blade 17 .

[0230] Sixth embodiment

[0231] Here, the differences from the first to fifth embodiments will be described, and the description of the common points in the sixth embodiment will be omitted.

[0232] Fixing of developer container and developer cover

[0233] As another embodiment of the method of fixing the developer container and the developer cover, reference will be made to Fig.31 , Fig.32 , Fig.33 , Fig.34 and Fig.35 An example in which the bending direction is different when engaging with the above-mentioned retained snap-fit ​​shape portion 21 k is described.

[0234] Fig.31 is a perspective view of the appearance of the developing unit 15d in the sixth embodiment, Fig.32 yes Fig.31 An enlarged view of the DF1 portion, and Fig.33 It is shown Fig.31 A view of another example of the DF1 section. Fig.34 A. Fig.34 B and Fig.34 C is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the mechanism of scraping of hot melt generated in the engaging structure by the snap-fit ​​shape portion in the comparative example. Fig.35 : is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a mechanism for reducing the scraping of hot melt by the joining structure in the sixth embodiment.

[0235] As a component (adhesive) used to bond and join the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22, the shape and position of the hot melt 43 as a viscoelastic body in this embodiment are difficult to determine compared to rigid components, and the positional relationship in the assembly operation with the corresponding contacting components is crucial to production stability.

[0236] Fig.32 The developer container 21 and the developer cap 22 according to the present embodiment are shown with respect to the positioning portions (engaging portions and engaged portions). The developer container 21 is provided with a pair of snap-fit ​​shape portions 221r ​​as engaged portions, and the developer cap 22 is provided with a convex portion 222r as an engaging portion.

[0237] here, Fig.32 The positioning portion shown is provided at the central portion in the longitudinal direction of the developing unit 15d and is provided outside a line extending in the longitudinal direction of a connecting line between the developer container 21 and the developing cover 22. In the connecting line extending in the longitudinal direction, the cross-sectional direction in which the protruding shape of the rib (convex portion) 21a inserted into the groove portion 22a appears is the same as that in FIG. Fig.31 , Fig.32 and Fig.33 The direction of the arrow Xd in FIG. is consistent with the direction of the arrow Xd in FIG. Fig.31 , Fig.32 and Fig.33 The direction of the arrow Yd in is consistent.

[0238] The pair of snap-fit ​​shape portions 221r ​​have flexibility, and in the present embodiment, the flexible direction when engaged with the convex portion 222r is the Yd direction.

[0239] The snap-fitting shape portion 221r ​​includes a pair of arm portions 221r1 arranged in the longitudinal direction of the developing unit 15d and erected in a manner extending toward the developer container 21 along the engagement direction of the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22. The pair of arms 221r1 include claw portions (bent portions bent in the direction facing each other) 221r2 protruding in the direction facing each other at the corresponding end portions. The pair of snap-fitting shape portions 221r ​​are arranged to clamp the convex portion 222r of the developer cover 22 in the longitudinal direction of the unit. In addition, in a state where no external force is applied to the snap-fitting shape portion 221r, the relative gap between the claw portions 221r2 of the pair of snap-fitting shape portions 221r ​​is narrower than the width (longitudinal direction width) of the convex portion 222r. The claw portions 221r2 allow the pair of snap-fitting shape portions 221r ​​to engage with the convex portion 222r so as to hold the convex portion 222r of the developer cover 22.

[0240] With the formation of the engaged state, the relative movement of the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 in the direction in which the developer container and the developer cover are separated from each other (Zd direction) is restricted, and the relative movement of the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22 in the longitudinal direction of the unit is restricted within a predetermined range.

[0241] Each of the pair of snap-fit ​​shape portions 221r ​​has a force receiving surface 221r21 and an engagement surface 221r22 as a control surface or an engagement force applying portion on the claw portion 221r2. The convex portion 222r has a pair of force applying surfaces 222r1 and an engagement surface 222r2 as a restricted surface or an engagement force receiving portion. The force receiving surface 221r21 and the force applying surface 222r1 are surfaces inclined relative to the engagement direction. The force receiving surface 221r21 and the force applying surface 222r1 contact each other during the process of engaging the developer container 21 and the developer cover 22, thereby generating a force for deforming the pair of snap-fit ​​shape portions 221r, thereby widening the distance between them in the longitudinal direction of the unit. Thus, the claw portion 221r2 of the pair of snap-fit ​​shape portions 221r ​​has a relative gap wider than the width of the convex portion 222r, and the engaging surface 221r22 and the engaging surface 222r2 can be brought into a state of facing and contacting each other in the engaging direction. By such elastic deformation, the snap-fit ​​shape portion 221r ​​and the convex portion 222r are engaged with each other.

[0242] Here, refer to Fig.34 A to Fig.34 C, the scratching phenomenon of the hot melt 43 which may occur in the structure of the comparative example in which the flexible direction of the snap-fit ​​shape portion is different from that of the present embodiment will be described. The engaging structure in the comparative example is configured so that the snap-fit ​​shape portion 421r having flexibility in the Xd direction becomes engaged with the engaging portion 321r by elastic deformation in the Xd direction.

[0243] like Fig.34 A and Fig.34 As shown in FIG. 2B, when the snap-fit ​​shape portion 421r is engaged with the engagement portion 422r, the snap-fit ​​shape portion 421r can be bent in the direction of the arrow Xi, and the rib (convex portion) 21a can also move and deform in the direction parallel to the cross section (the direction of the arrow Xd). At this time, the hot melt 43 is in a state before solidification (for example, a molten state). Then, as shown in FIG. Fig.34 As shown in FIG. 2B, the rib 21a starts to be immersed in the hot melt 43 from the state of being moved in the Xi direction. Thereafter, when the engagement between the snap-fit ​​shape portion 421r and the engagement portion 422r is completed, the rib 21a quickly returns to the state as shown in FIG. Fig.34 C. This return action of the rib 21a can push out the hot melt 43 in the reverse Xi direction. Hereinafter, this state change of the hot melt 43 is referred to as scraping.

[0244] In particular, in a state where the viscosity of the hot melt 43 is low, the scratching tends to cause an imbalance in the immersion amounts T1a and T2a of the hot melt 43 of the rib 21a, such as Fig.34C. For example, in the case of T1a=0, the bonding strength in the Xi direction decreases. Therefore, even in a state where the viscosity of the hot melt 43 is unstable, in order to ensure bonding strength and obtain stable productivity, it is desirable that the difference between the immersion amounts T1a and T2a is as small as possible, and preferably there is no difference.

[0245] Will refer to Fig.32 The characteristic configuration of this embodiment for achieving this is described below. Fig.32 As shown, in this embodiment, the bending direction of the snap-fitting shape portion 221r ​​is the longitudinal direction of the developing unit 15d (the direction of the arrow Yd). This arrangement configuration makes the direction in which the snap-fitting shape portion 221r ​​bends when locked (the direction of the arrow Yd) and the direction in which the rib 21a attracts the hot melt 43 (the direction of the arrow Xi) orthogonal to each other. With such a configuration, even if the snap-fitting shape portion 221r ​​is bent when engaging with the protrusion 222r, Fig.32 The rib (convex portion) 21a is also difficult to bend in the direction of the arrow Yd in the cross section ( Fig.34 Thus, the scraping amount mentioned above can be suppressed to a very small amount.

[0246] like Fig.35 As shown, according to the joining structure of the present embodiment, even if the immersion amounts T11 and T22 become more equal and, for example, the viscosity of the hot melt 43 varies depending on the production lot, production can be performed in a stable bonding state.

[0247] Fig.33 is a diagram showing another example of the joining structure of this embodiment. Fig.32 In the engagement structure of , a pair (ie, two) of snap-fit ​​shape portions 222r are provided for one convex portion 221r, but the structure is not limited thereto. Fig.33 As shown, one snap-fit ​​shape portion 321r may be provided for one protrusion 322r. Fig.33 The force receiving surface 321r21 in Fig.32 The force receiving surface 221r21 in the same structure. Fig.33 The control surface or the engaging surface 321r22 of the engaging force applying portion has the same Fig.32 The joining surfaces 221r22 have the same construction. Fig.33 The force applying surface 322r1 has Fig.32 The force applying surface 222r1 has the same construction as in FIG. Fig.33 The restricted surface or the engaging surface 322r2 of the engaging force receiving portion has the same Fig.32 The joining surface 222r2 has the same construction.

[0248] Seventh embodiment

[0249] Here, the differences between the seventh embodiment and the first to sixth embodiments will be described, and the description of the common points between the seventh embodiment and the first to sixth embodiments will be omitted.

[0250] Fixing of cleaning container and cleaning cover (joining step)

[0251] Will refer to Fig.36 , Fig.37 A. Fig.37 B and Fig.38 Another embodiment of the cleaning cover 52 engaged with the cleaning container 51 is described. Fig.36 is a perspective view of a cleaning subunit 50b of a cleaning unit according to a seventh embodiment. Fig.37 A is Fig.36 CL2 is an enlarged perspective view of the portion CL2 in FIG. 5 , and is a view showing a state in which the cleaning container 51 and the cleaning cover 52 are engaged. Fig.37 B is Fig.36 CL2 is an enlarged perspective view of the portion CL2 in FIG. 5 , and is a view showing a state before the cleaning container 51 and the cleaning cover 52 are engaged. Fig.38 A is Fig.38 B is an enlarged view of the CL2-1 section, viewed from above. Fig.36 Magnified image of the CL2 portion. Fig.38 B is a view of one longitudinal end side of the cleaning subunit 50b viewed in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction.

[0252] Fig.39 A is a view of one longitudinal end side of the cleaning subunit 50b viewed in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction, and is Fig.38 B Views viewed from different directions. Fig.39 B is a cross-sectional view of one longitudinal end side of the cleaning subunit 50 b as viewed in the longitudinal direction (−Yd direction) (a cross-sectional view taken along arrow B). Fig.39 C is Fig.39 B is an enlarged view of the CL2-2 portion and is a detailed view showing the force of the snap-fit ​​claw 251p. Fig.39 D is Fig.39 B is an enlarged view of the CL2 - 2 portion, and is a detailed view showing a state midway through the coupling step between the cleaning container 51 and the cleaning cover 52 and showing a state immediately before the snap-fit ​​claws 251 p are bent.

[0253] As described above, regarding the attachment of the cleaning blade 13, similarly to the attachment of the developing blade 17, the cleaning blade 13 is first assembled to the cleaning container 51. Thereafter, the cleaning cover 52 is attached to the cleaning container 51 using the hot melt 43. Therefore, in the sequence of the present manufacturing steps, it is also necessary to consider that there is no position fluctuation of the cleaning blade 13 due to the heat of the hot melt 43 at the time of assembly.

[0254] Here, in Figures 26 to 39 , the joining direction (third direction) between the cleaning container 51 and the cleaning cover 52 is defined as the Zc direction. The longitudinal direction (second direction) of the cleaning unit orthogonal to the joining direction is defined as the Yc direction, and the direction (first direction) orthogonal to each of the joining direction and the longitudinal direction is defined as the Xc direction.

[0255] like Fig.37 As shown, the cleaning container 51 is provided with a positioning recess 251b as a second engaging portion, and the cleaning cover 52 is provided with a positioning convex portion 252b as a second engaged portion. The positioning convex portion 252b is arranged on the cleaning cover 52 in a manner that it protrudes toward the cleaning container 51 in the engaging direction of the cleaning container 51 and the cleaning cover 52. The positioning recess 251b is arranged in the cleaning container 51 in a manner that it is recessed in the direction away from the cleaning cover 52 along the engaging direction. The positioning convex portion 252b is configured to be assembled into the positioning recess 251b in the state where the cleaning container 51 and the cleaning cover 52 are engaged. The positioning recess 251b is open in the longitudinal direction of the unit (Yc direction). The positioning convex portion 252b and the positioning recess 251b contact each other along the Xc direction orthogonal (intersecting) to the longitudinal direction of the unit in the mating state, and are configured to be relatively movable (slidable) in the longitudinal direction of the unit. In the mated state, the positioning protrusion 252 b and the positioning recess 251 b allow relative movement of the cleaning container 51 and the cleaning cover 52 in the longitudinal direction while restricting relative movement in the Xc direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction.

[0256] like Fig.37 As shown, in the cleaning unit of the present embodiment, a snap-fit ​​claw 251p as a fourth engaging portion is provided in the cleaning container 51 as a first frame body. A positioning hole 252q as a fourth engaged portion is provided in the cleaning cover 52 as a second frame body. The engaging construction between the snap-fit ​​claw 251p and the positioning hole 252q is similar to the engaging construction between the snap-fit ​​claw 222p and the positioning hole 222q of the fifth embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted.

[0257] like Fig.39 As shown in FIG. 3C , similar to the developing unit of the fifth embodiment, the cleaning unit of this embodiment further includes a force Fz in a direction of pulling the cleaning container 51 and the cleaning cover 52 due to a reaction force of the bending of the snap-fit ​​claw 251 p .

[0258] In addition, if Fig.38 As shown in FIG. 1A, similarly to the developing unit of the fifth embodiment, the width Dc of the positioning hole 252q in the longitudinal direction and the width dc of the snap-fit ​​claw 251p also have the following relationship:

[0259] Dd>dd

[0260] In addition, if Fig.39 As shown in FIG. 2 , similar to the developing unit of the fifth embodiment, before the snap-fit ​​claw 251p engages with the positioning hole 252q (before the snap-fit ​​claw 251p starts to elastically deform), the respective heights are set so that the positioning protrusion 252b and the positioning recess 251b start to fit each other.

[0261] With the above-described configuration, similarly to the developing blade 17 , the cleaning blade 13 can also be assembled with high precision.

[0262] As described above, according to the above-mentioned various embodiments, the connection surface (connection line) between the frame bodies can be freely constructed. In addition, according to the above-mentioned various embodiments, the frame body including the common parts of the developing scraper, the cleaning scraper, etc. is assembled before the joining of the frame body, so that the common parts of the production line of the box can be increased, and the device cost and workload can be reduced. That is, according to this embodiment, in the setting of the connection surface (connection line) of the frame body, the restriction on the device layout can be reduced, and the joining accuracy can be improved.

[0263] Note that the configurations of the above-described embodiments may be combined with each other.

[0264] The present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications and variations may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to disclose the scope of the present disclosure.

[0265] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-165011 filed on October 13, 2022 and Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-062419 filed on April 6, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0266] [reference numerals list]

[0267] 15 Development unit

[0268] 21 Developer container

[0269] 21L Connection cable

[0270] 21a Rib

[0271] 22 Development cover

[0272] 22L Connection cable

[0273] 22a Groove section

[0274] 43 Connecting parts (hot melt)

Claims

1. A container for containing a developer, the container comprising: A first frame body provided with an opening portion, the first frame body having a first surface extending along an edge of the opening portion; a second frame body connected to the first frame body to cover the opening portion and forming a storage portion for storing a developer together with the first frame body, the second frame body having a second surface facing the first surface and extending in a direction in which the first surface extends; as well as a connecting member, the connecting member connecting the first frame body and the second frame body, wherein the convex portion is arranged on one of the first surface and the second surface, and the concave portion is arranged on the other of the first surface and the second surface, wherein the convex portion is inserted into the concave portion so that a tip end surface of the convex portion and a bottom surface of the concave portion do not contact each other, and The connecting member is provided between the convex portion and the concave portion in such a manner as to contact both a distal end surface of the convex portion and a bottom surface of the concave portion.

2. The container according to claim 1, wherein The first surface faces the second surface with a gap therebetween.

3. The container according to claim 1, wherein the first surface extends annularly along the edge of the opening portion, and The second surface extends annularly along the first surface.

4. The container according to claim 1, wherein the first surface includes a flat portion and an inclined portion located at a position different from the flat portion in a direction along the edge, and The inclined portion extends in a direction away from the flat portion relative to a direction orthogonal to the flat portion toward a direction along the edge. The container of claim 4 , wherein the inclined portion comprises a curved surface. 6 . The container according to claim 5 , wherein the inclined portion includes a planar surface disposed at a different position from the curved surface in a direction along the edge.

7. The container according to claim 2, wherein the first frame body has a first abutment surface on the outer side of the first surface in a direction from the inside to the outside of the storage portion, wherein the second frame body has a second abutment surface on the outer side of the second surface in a direction from the inside to the outside of the storage portion, and The position of the second frame body relative to the first frame body is determined by abutting against the first abutting surface and the second abutting surface. 8 . The container according to claim 7 , wherein the first abutment surface and the second abutment surface are surfaces extending in a longitudinal direction of the first frame body.

9. The container according to claim 8, wherein the first frame body includes an engagement portion near the first abutment surface, wherein the second frame body includes an engaged portion near the second abutment surface, and The engaging portion and the engaged portion engage to restrict relative movement of the first abutting surface and the second abutting surface in a direction intersecting the first abutting surface.

10. The container of claim 9, wherein the engaging portion comprises: a first engaging portion provided on one side in the longitudinal direction; as well as a second engaging portion provided at the other side in the longitudinal direction, The joined portion comprises: a first engaged portion disposed on one side in the longitudinal direction; as well as a second engaged portion provided on the other side in the longitudinal direction, wherein the first engaging portion and the first engaged portion engage to restrict relative movement of the first frame body and the second frame body in the longitudinal direction and in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction and orthogonal to the first abutment surface, and The second engaging portion and the second engaged portion are engaged to allow relative movement in the longitudinal direction and a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction.

11. The container according to claim 10, wherein the engaging portion further comprises a third engaging portion provided between the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion in the longitudinal direction, wherein the engaged portion further includes a third engaged portion provided between the first engaged portion and the second engaged portion in the longitudinal direction, and The third engaging portion and the third engaged portion are engaged to allow relative movement in the longitudinal direction and a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction. 12 . The container according to claim 11 , wherein the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction includes a first direction along the first abutment surface and a third direction orthogonal to both the first direction and a second direction being the longitudinal direction.

13. The container according to claim 12, wherein the engaging portion further comprises a fourth engaging portion, the fourth engaging portion being disposed at a position different from that of the second engaging portion on the other side in the second direction, wherein the engaged portion further includes a fourth engaged portion, the fourth engaged portion being disposed at a position different from that of the second engaged portion on the other side in the second direction, wherein the fourth engaging portion and the fourth engaged portion engage to allow relative movement in the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction, and The fourth engaging portion includes an engaging force applying portion, and the fourth engaged portion includes an engaging force receiving portion that contacts the engaging force applying portion in the third direction and is slidable in the second direction.

14. A container according to claim 13, wherein when the first frame body and the second frame body are connected, the engaging force applying part and the engaging force receiving part become engaged with each other when at least one of the engaging part and the engaged part undergoes elastic deformation.

15. The container according to claim 14, wherein the elastic deformation is a deformation in which the engaging force applying portion and the engaging force receiving portion are relatively moved in the first direction.

16. The container according to claim 15, wherein the second engaging portion has limiting surfaces along the second direction and the third direction, wherein the second engaged portion includes a restricted surface along the second direction and the third direction, and the restricted surface faces the restricting surface in the first direction, and Wherein, when the first frame body and the second frame body are connected, before at least one of the fourth joining portion and the fourth joined portion is elastically deformed, the limiting surface of the second joining portion and the restricted surface of the second joined portion face each other in the first direction.

17. The container according to claim 10, further comprising a developing roller configured to carry a developer, the developing roller being rotatably supported by the first frame body, The directions in which the relative movement is allowed include the direction along the rotation axis of the developing roller.

18. The container according to claim 10, further comprising a photosensitive drum configured to carry a toner image, the photosensitive drum being rotatably supported by the first frame body, The directions in which the relative movement is allowed include the direction along the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum.

19. The container according to claim 1, further comprising a developing roller configured to carry a developer, the developing roller being rotatably supported by the first frame body.

20. The container of claim 1, further comprising: a photosensitive drum configured to carry a toner image; as well as a cleaning member fixed to the first frame body to contact the photosensitive drum, wherein the storage portion is configured to store the developer removed from the photosensitive drum by the cleaning member.

21. The container of claim 1, wherein the Young's modulus of the connecting member is lower than the Young's modulus of the first frame body and lower than the Young's modulus of the second frame body.

22. The container according to claim 1, wherein the first frame body and the second frame body are made of resin.

23. The container according to claim 1, wherein the connecting member is formed by solidifying molten resin.

24. A method for manufacturing a container, the container comprising a first frame body provided with an opening portion, and a second frame body, the first frame body having a first surface extending along an edge of the opening portion, the second frame body being connected to the first frame body to cover the opening portion and forming a storage portion for storing a developer together with the first frame body, the second frame body having a second surface facing the first surface and extending in a direction in which the first surface extends, a convex portion being provided on one of the first surface and the second surface, and a concave portion being provided on the other of the first surface and the second surface, the method comprising: a supplying step of supplying molten resin to the concave portion; a moving step of moving at least one of the first frame body and the second frame body so that a distal end surface of the protrusion is immersed in the molten resin in the recess, the moving step being subsequent to the supplying step; as well as A solidification step of solidifying the molten resin, the solidification step being subsequent to the moving step.

25. The method for manufacturing a container according to claim 24, wherein in the moving step, the convex portion is inserted into the concave portion so that a tip end surface of the convex portion and a bottom surface of the concave portion do not contact each other, and The molten resin contacts both the tip end surface of the convex portion and the bottom surface of the concave portion after being solidified in the solidification step.

26. The method for manufacturing a container according to claim 24, wherein in the moving step, The first abutment surface of the first frame body and the second abutment surface of the second frame body abut against each other, and An engaging portion included in the first frame body and an engaged portion included in the second frame body engage to restrict separation of the first abutting surface and the second abutting surface.

27. The method for manufacturing a container according to claim 24, further comprising a filling step of filling the storage portion with a developer after the curing step.

28. The method for manufacturing a container according to claim 24, further comprising an attaching step of attaching a developer regulating member for regulating a layer thickness of the developer carried on the developing roller to the first frame body before the supplying step.

29. The method for manufacturing a container according to claim 24, further comprising an attaching step of attaching a cleaning member for cleaning the photosensitive drum before the supplying step.

Images