Image forming apparatus

Abstract

An image forming apparatus includes: an apparatus body; a first unit configured to be attached to the apparatus main body; a second unit configured to be attached to the apparatus main body and configured to (1) be extracted from the apparatus main body together with the first unit and (2) be extracted from the apparatus main body when the first unit is accommodated in the apparatus main body; and a restricting structure configured to restrict extraction of the first unit from the apparatus main body in a case where the second unit is extracted from the apparatus main body while the first unit is accommodated in the apparatus main body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an imaging device. Background Art

[0002] In image forming apparatuses such as printers, copiers, and multifunction machines, a cartridge is detachable from a tray that can be drawn out from the inside to the outside of an apparatus body.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-244018 describes an image forming apparatus including a tray and a fixing device, and a cartridge can be removed from the tray. In the image forming apparatus, the tray can be drawn out from the inside of an apparatus body of the image forming apparatus to the outside through a plurality of openings.

[0004] Furthermore, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-206897 describes an imaging device comprising a tray, a transfer unit, and a fixing device, wherein a cartridge can be removed from the tray. In the imaging device, the tray and the transfer unit can be pulled out from the interior of the imaging device to the exterior. In Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-206897, the fixing device is disposed on one end side of the device body of the imaging device, and when the transfer unit is pulled out from the interior of the device body to the exterior, the transfer unit moves from the other end side of the device body toward the one end side. On the other hand, when the tray is pulled out from the interior of the device body to the exterior, the tray moves in a direction from the one end side of the device body toward the other end side. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention provides a further improved technique for an imaging device in which a plurality of such units can be withdrawn from the device body.

[0006] The present invention is an imaging device, comprising:

[0007] Equipment body;

[0008] a first unit configured to be attached to the device body;

[0009] a second unit configured to be attached to the device main body, the second unit configured to be (1) withdrawn from the device main body together with the first unit and (2) withdrawn from the device main body when the first unit is accommodated in the device main body; and

[0010] a restriction structure configured to restrict the first unit from being withdrawn from the device main body when the second unit is withdrawn from the device main body while the first unit is accommodated in the device main body, wherein

[0011] The second unit supports the first unit during at least a portion of a process in which the first unit and the second unit are withdrawn together from the device body.

[0012] The present invention is an imaging device, comprising:

[0013] Equipment body;

[0014] a first unit configured to be attached to the device body;

[0015] a second unit configured to be attached to the device main body, the second unit configured to be (1) withdrawn from the device main body together with the first unit and (2) withdrawn from the device main body when the first unit is accommodated in the device main body; and

[0016] a restriction structure configured to restrict the first unit from being withdrawn from the apparatus main body in a case where the second unit is withdrawn from the apparatus main body while the first unit is accommodated in the apparatus main body,

[0017] Wherein, the first unit is an imaging unit, and the imaging unit includes:

[0018] Photosensitive drum; and

[0019] a developing unit configured to form a toner image on a surface of the photosensitive drum, and

[0020] Here, the second unit is a belt unit having a belt configured to be in contact with the photosensitive drum.

[0021] Further features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the attached drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1 is a view showing the overall configuration of an imaging apparatus in Example 1;

[0023] Figure 2 is a view showing the imaging apparatus in Example 1 when the door is open;

[0024] Figure 3 is a view showing the image forming apparatus in Example 1 when the fixing device moves;

[0025] Figure 4 is a view showing a state in which the transfer unit and the tray unit in Example 1 are drawn out;

[0026] Figure 5 is a view showing a state in which the transfer unit in Example 1 is individually drawn out;

[0027] Figure 6 is a view illustrating movement of the transfer unit and the tray unit in Example 1;

[0028] Figure 7 is a view illustrating movement of the transfer unit and the tray unit in Example 1;

[0029] Figure 8 is a view showing a connection mechanism between the tray unit and the transfer unit in Example 1;

[0030] Figure 9 is a view showing a connection mechanism between the tray unit and the transfer unit in Example 1;

[0031] Figure 10 is a view showing a connection mechanism between the tray unit and the transfer unit in Example 1;

[0032] 11A to 11D is a view showing a tray unit in a modified example;

[0033] Figure 12 is a view showing a restricting member in Example 1;

[0034] Figure 13A is a view showing a restriction structure in Example 1;

[0035] Figure 13B is a view showing a restriction structure in Example 1;

[0036] Figure 13C is a view showing a restriction structure in Example 1;

[0037] Figure 14 is a view showing a restriction member and a transfer unit in Example 1;

[0038] Figure 15 is a view showing a state in which the transfer unit in Example 2 is individually drawn out;

[0039] Figure 16A and Figure 16B is a view showing a tray guide and a tray unit in Example 2; and

[0040] Figure 17 is a diagram illustrating a tray unit and a transfer unit in Example 2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] The following will illustrate in detail the forms for implementing the present invention based on examples with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the sizes, materials, shapes, and relative arrangements of the components described in the examples should be appropriately modified depending on the configuration and various conditions of the device to which the present invention is applied. In other words, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the following examples. Furthermore, in this disclosure, "at least one of A and B" means "A, B, or A and B."

[0042] Example 1

[0043] Overall structure

[0044] Will refer to Figure 1 The imaging device 1 in Example 1 is described. Figure 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of an image forming apparatus 1 in Example 1. In Example 1, the image forming apparatus 1 is an electrophotographic color laser beam printer that forms an image on a sheet S serving as a recording material.

[0045] The imaging apparatus 1 includes an apparatus body (housing) 1A, a scanner (exposure device) 2, a control unit 3, and a door (opening / closing member) 20 that can be opened and closed relative to the apparatus body 1A. Furthermore, the imaging apparatus 1 includes a sheet feeding unit 30, a transfer unit (transfer device) 40, a tray unit (moving unit, supporting unit) 50, and a fixing device 80. The portion including the apparatus body 1A and the door 20 can be referred to as a main frame 100. The main frame 100 comprises the exterior of the imaging apparatus 1.

[0046] The apparatus main body 1A accommodates a scanner 2 , a control unit 3 , a sheet feeding unit 30 , a transfer unit 40 , a tray unit 50 , and a fixing device 80 .

[0047] The sheet feeding unit 30 is a paper feeding unit that includes a stacking tray 31 on which sheets S serving as recording materials are stacked and a supply roller 32 . The stacking tray 31 can be drawn toward the door 20 to replenish the sheets S.

[0048] The tray unit 50 includes a tray (support member, drawer) 51 and cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK. The tray 51 has a tray handle 52. The cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK are detachably attached to the tray 51.

[0049] Each of the cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK can be independently removed from the tray 51. Each of the cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK has a toner container 72 for holding toner (developer) of each color: yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K). Aside from the color of the toner they hold, the cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK have the same construction. Therefore, the construction and operation of any one of the cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK will be described without describing the others. Furthermore, when there is no need to distinguish between the cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK, the cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK can be simply described as cartridges P. It can be said that the tray unit 50 includes a plurality of cartridges P and a tray 51, with the plurality of cartridges P being detachably attached to the tray.

[0050] In Example 1, the tray unit 50 includes multiple photosensitive drums (image bearing members) 61, multiple charging rollers 62 (charging members), and multiple developing rollers (developer bearing members) 71. Specifically, the tray unit 50 includes four photosensitive drums 61, four charging rollers 62, and four developing rollers 71. The rotational axes of the photosensitive drums 61, the developing rollers 71, and the charging rollers 62 are parallel to each other. The developing rollers 71 are developing units that form toner images on the surfaces of the photosensitive drums 61.

[0051] The portion where a black (K) image is formed is referred to as a black station (first station), the photosensitive drum 61 of the first station is referred to as a first photosensitive drum, the developing roller 71 is referred to as a first developing roller, and the charging roller 62 is referred to as a first charging roller.

[0052] The portion forming a cyan (C) image is referred to as a cyan station (second station), the photosensitive drum 61 of the second station is referred to as a second photosensitive drum, the developing roller 71 is referred to as a second developing roller, and the charging roller 62 is referred to as a second charging roller.

[0053] The portion where a magenta (M) image is formed is called a magenta station (third station), the photosensitive drum 61 of the third station is called a third photosensitive drum, the developing roller 71 is called a third developing roller, and the charging roller 62 is called a third charging roller.

[0054] The portion where a yellow (Y) image is formed is called a yellow station (fourth station), the photosensitive drum 61 of the fourth station is called a fourth photosensitive drum, the developing roller 71 is called a fourth developing roller, and the charging roller 62 is called a fourth charging roller.

[0055] The cartridge PK is detachably attached to the black station, the cartridge PC is detachably attached to the cyan station, the cartridge PM is detachably attached to the magenta station, and the cartridge PY is detachably attached to the yellow station. In Example 1, the cartridge PK is referred to as the first cartridge, the cartridge PC is referred to as the second cartridge, the cartridge PM is referred to as the third cartridge, and the cartridge PY is referred to as the fourth cartridge.

[0056] Here, for convenience of explanation, the numbers first, second, third and fourth are used.

[0057] The photosensitive drum 61 , the charging roller 62 , and the developing roller 71 may be provided in the cartridge P or the tray 51 . In Example 1, the cartridge P includes the photosensitive drum 61 , the charging roller 62 , and the developing roller 71 .

[0058] The transfer unit 40 includes a belt 41, a primary transfer roller 42, a cleaning unit 43, a drive roller 46 that drives the belt 41, and a tension roller (driven roller) 47. The transfer unit 40 is a belt unit that is capable of contacting the photosensitive drum 61. In the imaging apparatus 1 of Example 1, an optical sensor 44 is provided to detect the toner image transferred to the belt 41. In Example 1, the belt 41 is positioned below the photosensitive drum 61 and is capable of contacting the photosensitive drum 61, forming a primary transfer unit between the belt 41 and the photosensitive drum 61. Furthermore, the imaging apparatus 1 includes a secondary transfer roller 45 that contacts the belt 41, forming a secondary transfer unit. The secondary transfer unit is formed between the belt 41 and the secondary transfer roller 45. The rotational axes of the primary transfer roller 42, the drive roller 46, the tension roller 47, and the secondary transfer roller 45 are parallel to one another. A pair of registration rollers 4 is provided in front of the secondary transfer unit.

[0059] The fixing device 80 includes a fixing unit 81 and a shutter 5. When an image forming operation is performed on a sheet S, the fixing device 80 is in a use position Cs (refer to FIG. Figure 7 ), in which a fixing operation for fixing the toner image transferred to the recording material can be performed. When the fixing device 80 is in the use position Cs, the fixing device is housed inside (inside) the apparatus body 1A. Furthermore, the fixing device 80 is configured to heat the sheet S when in the use position Cs. In Example 1, the fixing unit 81 includes a heating unit (heating roller) including a heater and a pressure unit (pressure roller).

[0060] Will refer to Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 4 and Figure 5 The movements of the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 are described. Figure 2 is a view showing the image forming apparatus 1 when the door 20 is open. Figure 3 is a view showing the image forming apparatus 1 when the fixing device 80 moves. Figure 4 is a view showing the image forming apparatus 1 when the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 are drawn out. Figure 5 is a view showing the image forming apparatus 1 when the transfer unit 40 is individually drawn out.

[0061] The transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 are capable of moving from the inside to the outside of the device body 1A. In the horizontal direction H, the device body 1A includes a first end 1b1 provided with an opening 1A1 and a second end 1b2 opposite to the first end 1b1. The tray unit 50 is capable of moving to a first internal position Ci1 inside the device body 1A and a first external position Co1 outside the device body 1A through the opening 1A1. The transfer unit 40 is capable of moving to a second internal position Ci2 inside the device body 1A and a second external position Co2 outside the device body 1A through the opening 1A1. The opening 1A1 may include an opening through which the tray unit 50 passes and an opening through which the transfer unit 40 passes. Here, when the transfer unit 40 moves from the second internal position Ci2 to the second external position Co2, at least the belt 41 moves, and at least a portion of the belt 41 protrudes from the device body 1A toward the outside of the device body 1A.

[0062] The direction in which the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position Ci1 to the first outer position Co1 is called the tray removal direction Dd1, and the direction opposite to the tray removal direction Dd1 is called the tray attachment direction Da1. The tray removal direction Dd1 can be said to be a direction from the second end 1b2 to the first end 1b1.

[0063] The direction in which the transfer unit 40 moves from the second inner position Ci2 to the second outer position Co2 is referred to as the transfer removal direction Dd2. The direction opposite to the transfer removal direction Dd2 is referred to as the transfer attachment direction Da2. In the transfer removal direction Dd2, the drive roller 46 is located downstream of the tension roller 47. The transfer removal direction Dd2 can be said to be a direction from the second end 1b2 to the first end 1b1.

[0064] The tray removal direction Dd1 and the tray attachment direction Da1 are directions that intersect (preferably perpendicular to) the rotation axis direction of the photosensitive drum 61. The transfer removal direction Dd2 and the transfer attachment direction Da2 are directions that intersect (preferably perpendicular to) the rotation axis direction of the drive roller 46. The rotation axis direction of the drive roller 46 is parallel to the rotation axis direction of the photosensitive drum 61.

[0065] In the horizontal direction H, the fixing device 80 is provided on one end side of the apparatus main body 1A (the side where the first end 1 b 1 is provided).

[0066] The door 20 attached to the apparatus body 1A is movable between a closed position and an open position. Figure 1 As shown, when the door 20 is in the closed position (when the door 20 is closed), the door 20 covers the opening 1A1. Figure 2 As shown, when the door 20 is in the open position (when the door 20 is open), the opening 1A1 is exposed.

[0067] like Figure 1As shown, when the door 20 is in the closed position, the door 20 covers the fixing device 80 attached to the apparatus body 1A. More specifically, when the door 20 is in the closed position, the upper cover 20b of the door 20 is located above the fixing device 80. The upper cover 20b of the door 20 serves as a part of the exterior portion.

[0068] When the fixing device 80 is supported by the apparatus main body 1A, the door 20 can be moved between the open position and the closed position. In other words, the door 20 moves from the closed position to the open position so that it is separated from the fixing device 80 supported by the apparatus main body 1A. Figure 2 As shown, when the door 20 is in the open position, the door 20 is separated from the fixing device 80 supported by the apparatus body 1A.

[0069] As will be described below, the fixing device 80 can be Figure 2 The status shown moves to Figure 3 The state shown in FIG. 1A1 is such that the opening 1A1 is widely exposed. When the door 20 and the fixing device 80 are moved ( Figure 3 ), the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 can be moved from the inside of the apparatus body 1A to the outside through the opening 1A1, and enter the Figure 4 The status shown.

[0070] When the tray unit 50 moves to the outside of the apparatus body 1A ( Figure 4 ), the cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK can be removed from the tray 51, and the cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK can be attached to the tray 51. Therefore, the cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK can be replaced with new ones. In Example 1, the cartridge P can be removed from the tray 51 in a direction intersecting with the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 61 (preferably in a perpendicular direction).

[0071] The cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK are removed from the tray 51 by moving relative to the tray 51 in a direction away from the transfer unit 40. In other words, the cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK are removed from the tray 51 by moving relative to the tray 51 toward the side opposite to the transfer unit 40. In Example 1, the transfer unit 40 is provided below the tray unit 50. Therefore, the cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK are moved upward relative to the tray 51 and removed from the tray 51.

[0072] In addition, the transfer unit 40 can be removed from the apparatus body 1A independently of the tray unit 50 , and can be replaced with a new transfer unit 40 .

[0073] Imaging operation

[0074] Will refer to Figure 1The image forming operation of the image forming apparatus 1 is described. The control unit 3 of the image forming apparatus 1 starts the image forming operation on the sheet S based on an image signal received from the external host device 400. The external host device 400 is, for example, a personal computer, an image reader, a facsimile machine, or the like.

[0075] When forming an image on a sheet S, the fixing device 80 is located in the use position Cs, the tray unit 50 is located in the first inner position Ci1, the transfer unit 40 is located in the second inner position Ci2, and the door 20 is located in the closed position. When the transfer unit 40 is in the second inner position Ci2, the belt 41 can contact the photosensitive drum 61. In this case, the tray unit 50 is located above the transfer unit 40.

[0076] A charging voltage is applied to the charging roller 62, and the photosensitive drum 61 rotates. A laser beam corresponding to image information is emitted from the scanner 2 to the photosensitive drum 61, and the surface of the photosensitive drum 61 charged by the charging roller 62 is exposed. As a result, an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image information is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 61.

[0077] The developing roller 71 carries toner. A development voltage is applied to the developing roller 71, and the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 61 is developed using the toner supplied from the developing roller 71, thereby forming a toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 61. In Example 1, the developing roller 71 develops the electrostatic latent image while in contact with the photosensitive drum 61. However, the developing roller 71 may develop the electrostatic latent image while a gap exists between the developing roller 71 and the photosensitive drum 61.

[0078] When forming a full-color image, toner images of respective colors of Y, M, C, and K are formed on the respective photosensitive drums 61 .

[0079] Here, in Example 1, when the tray unit 50 is in the first internal position Ci1, the developing roller 71 is movable between a contact position in which the developing roller 71 contacts the photosensitive drum 61 and a separated position in which the developing roller 71 is separated from the photosensitive drum 61. Specifically, a switching device provided in the apparatus body 1A switches between a state in which the developing roller 71 is in the contact position and a state in which the developing roller 71 is in the separated position. Therefore, when the image forming operation is not being performed, the developing roller 71 can be separated from the photosensitive drum 61.

[0080] In addition, when the developing roller 71 corresponding to the cartridge PK is in contact with the photosensitive drum 61, and the developing rollers 71 corresponding to the cartridges PY, PM, and PC are separated from the photosensitive drum 61, the image forming apparatus 1 can perform monochrome printing. In addition, when the photosensitive drums 61 corresponding to the cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK are in contact with the belt 41, the image forming apparatus 1 can perform full-color printing.

[0081] The toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 61 is transferred onto the belt 41 by the primary transfer roller 42 in the primary transfer unit, and is transported toward the secondary transfer unit formed of the belt 41 and the secondary transfer roller 45 .

[0082] On the other hand, in the apparatus main body 1A, a conveying path (first path, first conveying path) 1c is formed, through which the sheet S is conveyed toward the fixing device 80. In addition, in the door 20, a duplex conveying path (second path, second conveying path) 20a is formed, through which the sheet S having passed through the fixing device 80 passes. The door 20 in a closed state covers the conveying path 1c. When the door 20 is opened, the conveying path 1c and the duplex conveying path 20a are exposed ( Figure 2 ).

[0083] The secondary transfer roller 45, the registration roller pair 4, the transport path 1c, the double-sided transport path 20a, etc. constitute a transport unit for transporting recording materials. The transport path 1c as part of the transfer unit, one roller of the registration roller pair 4, and the double-sided transport path 20a can be opened and closed in conjunction with the opening and closing of the door 20. Figure 1 The first position shown and Figure 2 When the door 20 is closed, the conveying unit moves to the first position, and when the door 20 is opened, the conveying unit moves to the second position. Figure 6 As shown, the space through which the tray unit passes when the tray unit 50 is drawn out from the apparatus main body 1A is defined as the first space K1, and the space through which the transfer unit passes when the transfer unit 40 is drawn out from the apparatus main body 1A is defined as the second space K2. Figure 6 As shown, in the first position, at least a portion of the transfer unit is located inside at least one of the first space K1 and the second space K2. Figure 3 As shown, in the second position, the transfer unit is located outside the first space K1 and the second space K2.

[0084] In the sheet feeding unit 30 , one sheet S is separated and fed by the supply roller 32 from the sheets S stacked on the stack tray 31 at a predetermined timing, and is transported toward the secondary transfer unit and the fixing device 80 through the transport path 1 c .

[0085] In the secondary transfer unit, the toner image is transferred from the belt 41 to the sheet S. The toner that has not been transferred to the sheet S is removed from the belt 41 by a cleaning blade (cleaning member) 43A provided in the cleaning unit 43 .

[0086] In the secondary transfer unit, the sheet S to which the toner image is transferred is conveyed toward the fixing device 80. In the fixing device 80, the sheet S is heated and pressurized by the fixing unit 81, and the toner image is fixed to the sheet S. The sheet S to which the toner image is fixed is conveyed toward the flapper 5 serving as a path switching unit.

[0087] The flapper 5 is movable between a discharge position for guiding the sheet S having passed through the fixing device 80 to the discharge path 1 d and a reversing position for guiding the sheet S to the reversing path 1 e .

[0088] When single-sided printing in which an image is formed on one surface of the sheet S is performed, the sheet S is guided to the discharge path 1 d by the flapper 5 , and discharged to a discharge tray 1 f formed in an upper portion of the apparatus body 1A.

[0089] On the other hand, when performing duplex printing, in which images are printed on one surface and the back surface of a sheet S, the sheet S is guided to the reversing path 1e by the shutter 5. After being guided to the reversing path 1e, the conveyance direction of the sheet S is reversed, and the sheet S passes through a duplex conveyance path 20a formed in the door 20 and is conveyed toward the secondary transfer unit. In the secondary transfer unit, after a toner image is transferred to the back surface of the sheet S, the sheet S passes through the fixing device 80, is guided to the discharge path 1d by the shutter 5, and is discharged to the discharge tray 1f of the apparatus main body 1A.

[0090] Removal of the tray unit and transfer unit and installation of the fixing unit

[0091] Will refer to Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 4 and Figure 5 Removal of the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 from the apparatus main body 1A and provision of the fixing device 80 are described.

[0092] As described above, the fixing device 80 of the image forming apparatus 1 is provided on one end side of the apparatus body 1A in the horizontal direction H. Furthermore, the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 are moved outside the apparatus body 1A from one end side through the opening 1A1 .

[0093] In other words, in the horizontal direction H, the first end 1b1 is closer to the fixing device 80 than the second end 1b2. That is, in the horizontal direction H, the distance between the fixing device 80 and the first end 1b1 is shorter than the distance between the fixing device 80 and the second end 1b2. It can be said that in the horizontal direction H, the fixing device 80 is located closer to the first end 1b1 than the center of the apparatus main body 1A is to the first end 1b1, and the distance between the first end 1b1 and the fixing device 80 in the horizontal direction H is shorter than the distance between the first end 1b1 and the center of the apparatus main body 1A.

[0094] Furthermore, as described above, when the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position Ci1 to the first outer position Co1, the moving direction of the tray unit 50 is a direction intersecting the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 61. In this case, the tray unit 50 moves away from the second end 1b2.

[0095] As described above, when the transfer unit 40 moves from the second inner position Ci2 to the second outer position Co2, the moving direction of the transfer unit 40 is a direction intersecting the rotation axis of the driving roller 46. In this case, the transfer unit 40 moves away from the second end 1b2.

[0096] As described above, in Example 1, the door 20 in the closed state covers the opening 1A1 and covers at least a portion of the conveying path 1c of the sheet S. In addition, the door 20 includes a double-sided conveying path 20a. When a sheet S becomes jammed (hereinafter referred to as a paper jam), a user of the imaging device 1 can remove the sheet S from one end side of the device body 1A and eliminate the paper jam. Specifically, the user can move the door 20 to the open position, approach the interior of the device body 1A, and remove the sheet S. In addition, when a portion of the sheet S that has passed through the fixing device 80 is exposed to the outside of the device body 1A, the sheet S can be removed by pulling the sheet S out from the outside of the device body 1A without opening the door 20.

[0097] In addition, the user of the image forming apparatus 1 can move the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 from one end side of the apparatus body 1A to the outside of the apparatus body 1A and perform operations such as checking the status, maintenance, and replacement of the transfer unit 40 and the cartridge P.

[0098] That is, in the image forming apparatus 1, the fixing device 80 is provided on one end side of the apparatus main body 1A, and the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 can be moved inside and outside the apparatus main body 1A through the one end side of the apparatus main body 1A. As a result, the user can remove a paper jam in one direction, access the fixing device 80, and perform operations on the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50.

[0099] In Example 1, the door 20 side is the front side of the imaging apparatus 1. Therefore, it is sufficient to secure space around the imaging apparatus 1 from the front side in order to clear paper jams and perform operations such as operating the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50. On the other hand, it is not necessary to secure space for performing these operations from the left, right, rear, or top sides of the imaging apparatus 1. Therefore, the imaging apparatus 1 can be installed in a smaller space.

[0100] When the transfer unit 40 or the tray unit 50 is pulled out from the other end of the apparatus main body 1A, the user needs to access both ends of the apparatus main body 1A in order to clear a paper jam and pull out the transfer unit 40 or the tray unit 50. Furthermore, when one of the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 is pulled out from one end of the apparatus main body 1A and the other is pulled out from the other end, the user needs to access both ends of the apparatus main body 1A. Consequently, space is required not only for accessing the front side of the apparatus main body 1A but also for accessing the rear side thereof, and the area required for installing the imaging apparatus 1 increases.

[0101] In Example 1, sheets S can be replenished from one end side of the apparatus body 1A. Therefore, only a space for replenishing sheets S is required from the front side of the image forming apparatus 1, and the image forming apparatus 1 can be installed in a small space.

[0102] Moving mechanism of fixing device

[0103] Will refer to Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 6 and Figure 7 The relationship between the tray unit 50 and the fixing device 80 will be described. Figure 6 and Figure 7 1 and 2 are views illustrating the movement of the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 .

[0104] As the tray unit 50 moves between the first inner position Ci1 and the first outer position Co1, the tray unit 50 passes through a predetermined space, performing an image forming operation on the sheet S at the first inner position Ci1 and allowing replacement of the cartridge P at the first outer position Co1. In this manner, the space through which the tray unit 50 passes when moving from the first inner position Ci1 to the first outer position Co1 is referred to as a first space K1 (a movement space of the tray unit 50). The first space K1 may also be referred to as a path or trajectory (a first movement path, a first movement trajectory) that the tray unit 50 passes through when moving from the first inner position Ci1 to the first outer position Co1.

[0105] The transfer unit 40 passes through a predetermined space as it moves between the second inner position Ci2 and the second outer position Co2, where an image forming operation is performed on the sheet S. In this manner, the space through which the transfer unit 40 passes when it moves from the second inner position Ci2 to the second outer position Co2 is referred to as a second space K2 (the movement space of the transfer unit 40). The second space K2 can also be referred to as a path or trajectory (a second movement path, a second movement trajectory) through which the transfer unit 40 passes when it moves from the second inner position Ci2 to the second outer position Co2.

[0106] The position of the fixing device 80 when an image forming operation is performed on the sheet S (the use position Cs), the first space K1 , and the second space K2 have the following relationship.

[0107] That is, Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, at least a portion of the fixing device 80 overlaps the first space K1 at the use position Cs. In other words, when the fixing device 80 is at the use position Cs, at least a portion of the fixing device 80 is located inside the first space K1.

[0108] In Example 1, when the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position Ci1 to the first outer position Co1 , at least a portion of the fixing device 80 overlaps with the space through which the cartridge P passes, but it may be disposed to overlap with the space through which the tray 51 passes.

[0109] Therefore, the size of the apparatus body 1A can be reduced compared to a configuration in which the fixing device 80 at the use position Cs is located outside the first space K1 .

[0110] Here, as Figure 6 As shown, in Example 1, when the door 20 is closed, at least a portion of the duplex conveying path 20a overlaps the first space K1. That is, when the door 20 is closed, at least a portion of the duplex conveying path 20a is located inside the first space K1.

[0111] As described above, at least a portion of the fixing device 80 at the use position Cs is located inside the first space K1. Therefore, when the fixing device 80 is in the use position Cs, the tray unit 50 is restricted from moving from the first inner position Ci1 to the first outer position Co1. On the other hand, the fixing device 80 is capable of moving between the use position Cs and the retracted position Ct retracted from the use position Cs. When the fixing device 80 moves from the use position Cs to the retracted position Ct, the tray unit 50 is allowed to move from the first inner position Ci1 to the first outer position Co1. When the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position Ci1 to the first outer position Co1, the tray unit 50 passes under the fixing device 80. Here, the fixing device 80 is located outside the second space K2 at both the use position Cs and the retracted position Ct. Therefore, in both the state in which the fixing device 80 is in the use position Cs and the state in which the fixing device 80 is in the retracted position Ct, the transfer unit 40 is capable of moving from the second inner position Ci2 to the second outer position Co2. When the transfer unit 40 moves from the second inner position Ci2 to the second outer position Co2 , the transfer unit 40 passes under the fixing device 80 .

[0112] The fixing device 80 includes a fixing frame 80a that supports the fixing unit 81. When the fixing device 80 is retracted from the use position Cs, the fixing frame 80a that supports the fixing unit 81 is displaced relative to the apparatus body 1A.

[0113] When the tray unit 50 is drawn out to the outside of the apparatus body 1A, first, the door 20 is moved to the open position. Figure 2 In Example 1, when the fixing device 80 is located at the use position Cs, the door 20 can be moved to the open position and the closed position. Then, when the door 20 is in the open position, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 As shown, the fixing device 80 moves from the use position Cs to the retracted position Ct, so that it moves to the outside of the first space K1.

[0114] In the image forming apparatus 1 in Example 1, the fixing device 80 is movable between the use position Cs and the retracted position Ct retracted from the use position Cs while being attached to the apparatus body 1A. In Example 1, when the fixing device 80 is in the retracted position Ct, the entire fixing device 80 is located outside the first space K1.

[0115] Here, at the use position Cs, at least a portion of the fixing device 80 may be located in the second space K2 , a portion of the fixing device 80 may be located inside the first space K1 , and another portion may be located inside the second space K2 .

[0116] The fixing device 80 can be lifted from the use position Cs and moved to the retracted position Ct above the use position Cs. In other words, the retracted position Ct is a position higher than the use position Cs. Figure 7 As shown, when the fixing device 80 is in the retracted position Ct, at least a portion of the fixing device 80 is positioned so as to protrude from the apparatus main body 1A toward the exterior of the apparatus main body 1A. Furthermore, when the fixing device 80 is in the retracted position Ct, at least a portion of the fixing device 80 is positioned higher than the upper cover 20b of the door 20, which is in the closed position. Therefore, in the vertical direction V, when the fixing device 80 is in the use position Cs, by moving the fixing device 80 to the retracted position Ct, space for movement of the tray unit 50 can be ensured while maintaining the compact size of the imaging apparatus 1. Here, when the fixing device 80 is in the retracted position Ct, the restriction door 20 is in the closed position.

[0117] Specifically, the image forming apparatus 1 includes a connecting member (fixing connecting member, fixing link, arm) 85 movably connected to the apparatus main body 1A. The fixing device 80 is connected to the apparatus main body 1A via the connecting member 85 .

[0118] The connecting member 85 is rotatable about a rotation center 85A, and when the tray unit 50 is withdrawn from the apparatus main body 1A, the connecting member 85 moves outside the first space K1. The fixing device 80 is rotatably connected to one end of the connecting member 85, and the other end of the connecting member 85 is rotatably connected to the apparatus main body 1A about the rotation center 85A. The fixing device 80, supported by the connecting member 85 (and connected to the apparatus main body 1A via the connecting member 85), can move from the in-use position Cs to the retracted position Ct, and vice versa. The connecting member 85 is configured to be movable (swingable) relative to the apparatus main body 1A and the fixing device 80. In other words, the fixing device 80 is connected to the apparatus main body 1A via the connecting member 85. As a result, the amount of movement of the fixing device 80 when moving between the retracted position Ct and the in-use position Cs can be increased compared to a configuration in which the fixing device 80 is directly connected to the apparatus main body 1A.

[0119] like Figure 7As shown, when the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position Ci1 to the first outer position Co1, the angle between the moving direction Dd1 of the tray unit 50 and the horizontal direction H is smaller than the angle between the moving direction Dd1 of the tray unit 50 and the vertical direction V. Furthermore, when the fixing device 80 moves from the use position Cs to the retracted position Ct, the amount of movement of the fixing device 80 in the vertical direction V is greater than the amount of movement of the fixing device 80 in the horizontal direction H. That is, when the fixing device 80 moves from the use position Cs to the retracted position Ct, the amount of movement of the fixing device 80 in a direction perpendicular to the moving direction Dd1 of the tray unit 50 is greater than the amount of movement of the fixing device 80 in a direction parallel to the moving direction Dd1 of the tray unit 50.

[0120] In addition, the fixing device 80 attached to the apparatus main body 1A via a guide fixed to the apparatus main body 1A is movable between the use position Cs and the retracted position Ct. In this case, the shape of the guide is arbitrary.

[0121] However, the method for moving the fixing device 80 outside the first space K1 is not limited to this. For example, the fixing device 80 can be removed from the apparatus body 1A, retracted from the in-use position Cs, and moved outside the first space K1. In other words, when the fixing device 80 is separated from the apparatus body 1A and the door 20 (separated from the main frame 100), the fixing device 80 can be located outside the first space K1. Furthermore, when the fixing device 80 is connected to the door 20 and the door 20 is open, the fixing device 80 can be moved outside the first space K1.

[0122] Relationship between the tray unit and the transfer unit

[0123] Will refer to Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 and Figure 7 The relationship between the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 is described.

[0124] like Figure 3 As shown, when the fixing device 80 is located outside the first space K1 , the user holds the tray handle 52 and moves the tray unit 50 toward the outside of the apparatus body 1A.

[0125] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, when an image forming operation is performed on the sheet S, the position of the transfer unit 40 and the first space K1 have the following relationship.

[0126] That is, when the image forming operation is performed on the sheet S, the transfer unit 40 is in the second inner position Ci2. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, at least a portion of the transfer unit 40 located at the second inner position Ci2 overlaps the first space K1. In other words, when the transfer unit 40 is located at the second inner position Ci2, at least a portion of the transfer unit 40 is located inside the first space K1.

[0127] In Example 1, when the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position Ci1 to the first outer position Co1, at least a portion of the transfer unit 40 overlaps with the space through which the tray 51 passes, but it may be arranged to overlap with the space through which the cartridges P pass.

[0128] Thus, the size of the apparatus body 1A can be reduced compared to a configuration in which the transfer unit 40 at the second inner position Ci2 is located outside the first space K1 .

[0129] Here, in the imaging device 1 in Example 1, the portion of the transfer unit 40 that overlaps with the first space K1 is the cleaning unit 43 that houses the cleaning member 43A. However, other portions of the transfer unit 40 may overlap with the first space K1. Furthermore, in Example 1, the cleaning member 43A of the transfer unit 40 at the second inner position Ci2 overlaps with the first space K1.

[0130] The tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 can be said to have the following relationship. Consider a state where the tray unit 50 is in the first inner position Ci1 and the transfer unit 40 is in the second inner position Ci2. In this state, a portion of the transfer unit 40 (the cleaning unit 43) is located downstream of the tray unit 50 in the direction of movement of the tray unit 50 from the first inner position Ci1 to the first outer position Co1. Furthermore, in the vertical direction V, the area (range) where the portion of the transfer unit 40 (the cleaning unit 43) located downstream of the tray unit 50 is located at least partially overlaps with the area (range) where the tray unit 50 is located.

[0131] Here, in Example 1, when the door 20 is closed, at least a portion of the duplex transport path 20a overlaps with the second space K2, and the transfer unit 40 passes through the second space when it moves from the second inner position Ci2 to the second outer position Co2. In other words, when the door 20 is closed, at least a portion of the duplex transport path 20a is located inside the second space K2.

[0132] As described above, when the transfer unit 40 is in the second inner position Ci2, at least a portion of the transfer unit 40 is located within the first space K1. Therefore, in Example 1, when the user moves the tray unit 50 from the first inner position Ci1 to the first outer position Co1 relative to the apparatus body 1A, the transfer unit 40 also moves from the second inner position Ci2 to the second outer position Co2 relative to the apparatus body 1A. In other words, when the transfer unit 40 and tray unit 50 are integrated, the tray unit moves from the first inner position Ci1 to the first outer position Co1, and the transfer unit 40 moves from the second inner position Ci2 to the second outer position Co2.

[0133] When the tray unit 50 is moved to the first outer position Co1 by moving the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 together, it is possible to prevent the photosensitive drum 61 from being exposed and from being scratched or stained.

[0134] like Figure 7 As shown, when the door 20 is open, the tray unit 50 is in the first outer position Co1, and the transfer unit 40 is in the second outer position Co2, with the transfer unit 40 supporting the tray unit 50 from below. Furthermore, in Example 1, the door 20 supports the transfer unit 40. That is, the transfer unit 40 supported by the door 20 supports the tray unit 50. In this state, it can be said that the door 20 supports the tray unit 50 via the transfer unit 40.

[0135] Connection mechanism between the tray unit and the transfer unit

[0136] Will refer to Figure 8 、 Figure 9 and Figure 10 A configuration for moving the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 together is described. Figure 8 、 Figure 9 and Figure 10 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a locking member (link, stopper, connecting member) 53 connecting the tray 51 of the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 .

[0137] The image forming apparatus 1 in Example 1 includes a locking member 53. In Example 1, the locking member 53 is provided in the tray 51 of the tray unit 50. The locking member 53 includes a transfer locking unit 53A, and is rotatable around a rotation center 53B.

[0138] The tray 51 includes a transfer connection unit 51A. The transfer unit 40 includes a drive roller 46, a tension roller 47, and a transfer frame 48 that supports the primary transfer roller 42. A tray connection groove 48A and a lock connection unit 48B are provided in the transfer frame 48.

[0139] When the lock member 53 rotates about the rotation center 53B, the transfer lock unit 53A engages with the lock connection unit 48B and is movable between a connection position where the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 are connected and a release position retracted from the connection position.

[0140] When the transfer connection unit 51A is engaged with the tray connection groove 48A, the tray unit 50 is restricted from moving in the tray removal direction Dd1 and a direction perpendicular to the tray removal direction Dd1 relative to the transfer unit 40. On the other hand, the transfer unit 40 is restricted from moving in the transfer attachment direction Da2 and a direction perpendicular to the transfer attachment direction Da2 relative to the tray unit 50.

[0141] This configuration is provided at a total of four locations: near both ends of the tension roller 47 in the rotation axis direction of the tension roller 47 , and near both ends of the drive roller 46 in the rotation axis direction of the drive roller 46 .

[0142] When the transfer lock unit 53A of the lock member 53 in the connection position engages the lock connection unit 48B, the tray unit 50 is restricted from moving in the tray attaching direction Da1 relative to the transfer unit 40. On the other hand, the transfer unit 40 is restricted from moving in the transfer removing direction Dd2 relative to the tray unit 50.

[0143] The locking members 53 and the locking connection units 48B may be provided at both ends of the transfer unit 40 in the rotation axis direction of the tension roller 47 .

[0144] That is, when the transfer connection unit 51A is engaged with the tray connection groove 48A and the locking member 53 in the connected position is engaged with the locking connection unit 48B, the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 are restricted from moving relative to each other. Here, in this state, the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 can move freely.

[0145] That is, it can be said that the transfer connection unit 51A and the locking member 53 serve as the tray-side connection means, and the tray connection groove 48A and the locking connection unit 48B serve as the transfer-side connection means. When the tray-side connection means and the transfer-side connection means are connected, the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 are connected, and the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 move together.

[0146] On the other hand, Figure 10 As shown, the apparatus body 1A includes an unlocking unit 1B. When the tray unit 50 is in the first inner position Ci1 and the transfer unit 40 is in the second inner position Ci2, the locking member 53 contacts the unlocking unit 1B and is in the released position. In this state, the transfer locking unit 53A is separated from the locking connection unit 48B.

[0147] When the locking member 53 is in the released position, if the tray unit 50 moves in the tray removal direction Dd1, the transfer connection unit 51A provided in the tray 51 pushes the transfer unit 40 in the transfer removal direction Dd2. As a result, the transfer unit 40 also moves in the transfer removal direction Dd2 together with the tray unit 50. When the tray unit 50 moves a predetermined distance in the tray removal direction Dd1, the locking member 53 separates from the unlocking unit 1B, moves to the connected position, and engages with the locking connection unit 48B. When the locking member 53 is in the connected position and engages with the locking connection unit 48B, the tray unit 50 moves to the first outer position Co1, and the transfer unit 40 moves to the second outer position Co2.

[0148] When the locking member 53 engages the locking connection unit 48B, if the tray unit 50 moves toward the tray attachment direction Da1, the locking member 53 pushes the transfer unit 40 in the transfer attachment direction Da2. As a result, the transfer unit 40 also moves in the transfer attachment direction Da2 together with the tray unit 50.

[0149] When the locking member 53 is engaged with the locking connection unit 48B, if the transfer unit 40 moves in the transfer attachment direction Da2, the transfer unit 40 pushes the transfer connection unit 51A, and the tray unit 50 is pushed in the tray attachment direction Da1. As a result, the tray unit 50 also moves in the tray attachment direction Da1 together with the transfer unit 40.

[0150] When the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 move together into the apparatus body 1A, the locking member 53 is moved to the released position by the unlocking unit 1B. In this state, even if the tray unit 50 moves in the tray attachment direction Da1, the transfer unit 40 does not move. Therefore, during the closing process of the door 20, due to the force of the secondary transfer roller 45 contacting the transfer unit 40, the transfer unit 40 is pushed in the transfer attachment direction Da2 and is pushed to the rear of the apparatus body 1A (the second interior position Ci2). In other words, the door 20 is able to push the transfer unit 40, causing it to move to the second interior position Ci2. In addition, the door 20 can also push the tray unit 50, causing it to move to the first interior position Ci1.

[0151] On the other hand, consider a state in which the locking member 53 is in the release position and the tray unit 50 is in the first inner position Ci1. In this state, when the transfer unit 40 moves toward the transfer removal direction Dd2, the transfer unit 40 can move from the second inner position Ci2 to the second outer position Co2 independently of the tray unit 50. In the image forming apparatus 1 in Example 1, as Figure 5As shown, when the tray unit 50 is located inside the apparatus body 1A (first inside position Ci1), the transfer unit 40 can be moved outside the apparatus body 1A (second outside position Co2). The transfer unit 40 can be removed from the apparatus body 1A and replaced with a new one.

[0152] In Example 1, when the tray unit 50 is in the first internal position Ci1, the tray unit 50 is positioned relative to the apparatus body 1A independently of the transfer unit 40. Furthermore, when the transfer unit 40 is in the second internal position Ci2, the transfer unit 40 is positioned relative to the apparatus body 1A independently of the tray unit 50. This is because priority is given to accurately positioning the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 relative to the apparatus body 1A. Therefore, when the tray unit 50 is in the first internal position Ci1 and the transfer unit 40 is in the second internal position Ci2, a slight gap is provided between the tray connection groove 48A and the transfer connection unit 51A.

[0153] When the tray unit 50 is in the first inner position Ci1 and the transfer unit 40 is in the second inner position Ci2, the gap between the tray connection groove 48A and the transfer connection unit 51A can be eliminated, so that the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 can be positioned relative to each other. In this case, the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 can be accurately positioned relative to each other.

[0154] Movement of the tray unit and transfer unit

[0155] like Figure 1 、 Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 attached to the apparatus body 1A are inclined with respect to the horizontal direction H.

[0156] More specifically, when the tray unit 50 is in the first inner position Ci1 , the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 61 closer to the first end 1 b 1 is higher in the vertical direction V than the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 61 farther from the first end 1 b 1 .

[0157] That is, when the tray unit 50 is in the first internal position Ci1, the second photosensitive drum (the photosensitive drum 61 of cartridge PC) is closer to the first end 1b1 than the first photosensitive drum (the photosensitive drum 61 of cartridge PK). The rotational axis of the second photosensitive drum is located at a higher position in the vertical direction V than the rotational axis of the first photosensitive drum. Similarly, the third photosensitive drum (the photosensitive drum 61 of cartridge PM) is closer to the first end 1b1 than the second photosensitive drum, and the rotational axis of the third photosensitive drum is located at a higher position in the vertical direction V than the rotational axis of the second photosensitive drum. The fourth photosensitive drum (the photosensitive drum 61 of cartridge PY) is closer to the first end 1b1 than the third photosensitive drum, and the rotational axis of the fourth photosensitive drum is located at a higher position in the vertical direction V than the rotational axis of the third photosensitive drum.

[0158] Here, the straight line connecting the centers of the photosensitive drums 61 is the straight line LD. In Example 1, when the tray unit 50 is in the first inner position Ci1, the straight line LD is inclined upward relative to the horizontal direction H from the side farther from the first end 1b1 to the side closer to the first end 1b1.

[0159] In addition, the contact surface of the belt 41 that contacts the first, second, third, and fourth photosensitive drums is inclined upward from the side farther from the first end 1 b 1 to the side closer to the first end 1 b 1 .

[0160] When the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position Ci1 to the first outer position Co1, the tray unit 50 moves in a direction inclined relative to the horizontal direction H (in Example 1, a direction inclined upward relative to the horizontal direction H). That is, when the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position Ci1 to the first outer position Co1, the tray unit 50 moves obliquely upward.

[0161] When the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position Ci1 to the first outer position Co1, the moving direction of the tray unit 50 changes from obliquely upward to downward. The moving direction of the tray unit 50 may include a direction parallel to the horizontal direction H or a direction oblique downward relative to the horizontal direction H.

[0162] The angle between the straight line LD and the horizontal direction H is smaller when the tray unit 50 is in the first outer position Co1 than when the tray unit 50 is in the first inner position Ci1. In Example 1, when the tray unit 50 is in the first outer position Co1, the straight line LD and the horizontal direction H are parallel to each other, but the straight line LD may be inclined downward or upward relative to the horizontal direction H.

[0163] Similarly, when the transfer unit 40 moves from the second inner position Ci2 to the second outer position Co2, the moving direction of the transfer unit 40 changes from obliquely upward to downward. The moving direction of the transfer unit 40 may include a direction parallel to the horizontal direction H or a direction obliquely downward relative to the horizontal direction H.

[0164] The angle between the contact surface of the belt 41 and the horizontal direction H is smaller when the transfer unit 40 is in the second outer position Co2 than when the transfer unit 40 is in the second inner position Ci2. In Example 1, when the transfer unit 40 is in the second outer position Co2, the contact surface of the belt 41 is parallel to the horizontal direction H, but the contact surface of the belt 41 may be inclined downward or upward relative to the horizontal direction H.

[0165] When the tray unit 50 moves from the first outer position Co1 to the first inner position Ci1, the tray unit 50 moves in the horizontal direction H and then moves diagonally downward along this path. When the transfer unit 40 moves from the second outer position Co2 to the second inner position Ci2, the transfer unit 40 moves in the horizontal direction H and then moves diagonally downward along this path. In this configuration, when the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 are inserted into the apparatus body 1A, the weight of the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 can be utilized.

[0166] Tray unit restriction structure

[0167] Will refer to Figure 12 、 13A to 13C and Figure 14 The limiting structure 90 in Example 1 of the present invention is described. When the transfer unit 40 is pulled out from the device main body 1A while the tray unit 50 is accommodated in the device main body 1A, the limiting structure 90 limits the tray unit 50 from being pulled out from the device main body 1A. As described above, since the tray unit 50 is supported by the door 20 via the transfer unit 40, if the tray unit 50 is pulled out to the first external position Co1 alone, then the support is impossible and a malfunction occurs. That is, when the transfer unit 40 is in the second external position Co2, or when the transfer unit is moved to the second external position Co2, it is ideal that the tray unit 50 cannot be moved to the first external position Co1. Under ideal conditions, the limiting structure 90 for limiting the movement of the tray unit 50 is composed of Figure 5 The dotted line indicates . Figure 12 、 13A to 13C 、 Figure 14 is a view showing details of the restriction structure 90, Figure 12 is a perspective view of the restraining structure 90, Figure 13C is a side view of the limiting structure 90 (viewed along the rotation axis direction of the photosensitive drum 61), Figure 13A and Figure 13B It is along Figure 13CThe cross-sectional view taken along line AA in the figure is as follows: Figure 14 It is along Figure 13C A cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG.

[0168] As described above, the tray unit 50 is the first unit attached to the apparatus body 1A. The transfer unit 40 is the second unit attached to the apparatus body 1A and can be withdrawn from the apparatus body 1A together with the tray unit 50 and can be withdrawn from the apparatus body 1A while the tray unit 50 is housed in the apparatus body 1A.

[0169] During at least a portion of the process in which the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 are withdrawn from the apparatus body 1A together, the tray unit 50 is supported by the transfer unit 40. Since the transfer unit 40 is located below the tray unit 50, the tray unit 50 is supported from below by the transfer unit 40. The apparatus body 1A has an opening 1A1 and a door 20 that opens and closes the opening 1A1, and when the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 are withdrawn, the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 pass through the opening. During at least a portion of the process in which the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 are withdrawn from the apparatus body 1A together, the transfer unit 40 is supported by the door 20, and the tray unit 50 is supported by the transfer unit 40. That is, the tray unit 50 is supported by the transfer unit 40, and the transfer unit 40 is supported by the door 20.

[0170] In this way, in Example 1, in an imaging device in which a plurality of units can be drawn out from the device main body, one unit supports another unit during the process of drawing out at least a portion of the plurality of units together. Therefore, the construction of the supporting member of the device main body can be simplified compared to a construction in which each of the plurality of units is supported by a supporting member provided in the device main body. On the other hand, as described above, in this construction, when one unit is drawn out from the device main body, if an operation of drawing out another unit from the device main body is performed, there is nothing to support the other unit. In Example 1, if the tray unit 50 is drawn out from the device main body 1A when the transfer unit 40 is drawn out from the device main body 1A, there is a moment when the tray unit 50 is not supported by anything. This may cause problems, such as placing a burden on the user who performs the operation of drawing out the tray unit 50, and the user causing the tray unit 50 to fall.

[0171] Here, in Example 1, the restriction structure 90 for restricting the tray unit 50 from being withdrawn from the apparatus main body 1A when the transfer unit 40 is withdrawn from the apparatus main body 1A while the tray unit 50 is accommodated in the apparatus main body 1A is provided.

[0172] The restricting structure 90 includes an engaging portion and an engaged portion engageable with the engaging portion.

[0173] When the transfer unit 40 is in the attached position (second inner position Ci2) where it is attached to the apparatus main body 1A, the engagement between the engaging portion and the engaged portion is released, and the tray unit 50 is allowed to be withdrawn from the apparatus main body 1A. In this case, the tray unit 50 is allowed to be withdrawn from the apparatus main body 1A together with the transfer unit 40.

[0174] When the transfer unit 40 is separated from the attachment position (the second inner position Ci2 ) by a predetermined distance or more, the engaging portion and the engaged portion engage with each other, and the tray unit 50 is restricted from being withdrawn from the apparatus body 1A.

[0175] In Example 1, the restriction structure 90 has a configuration in which the tray locking portion 50 a serving as an engaging portion provided in the tray unit 50 and the tray restriction unit 91 c serving as an engaged portion provided in the apparatus body 1A are engaged with each other.

[0176] The main frame 100 includes a limiting member 91. More specifically, the limiting member 91 is provided in the device body 1A. A tray limiting unit 91c serving as an engaged portion is provided in the limiting member 91. The limiting member 91 includes a shaft portion 91j and an arm portion 91b provided in the shaft portion 91j. The holding member 92 of the device body 1A attached to the main frame 100 includes a bearing 92a that rotatably supports the shaft portion 91j and a positioning unit 92b that determines the position of the arm portion 91b in the vertical direction. The limiting member 91 is a movable portion that can move by rotating between an allowable position and a restricting position, as shown in FIG. Figure 13A As shown, at the allowable position, the tray restriction unit 91c is separated from the tray locking portion 50a. Figure 13B As shown, the tray restricting unit 91c is engaged with the tray locking portion 50a at the restricting position.

[0177] The restricting structure 90 includes a spring 93 serving as an applying portion (biasing portion) that applies a force to the restricting member 91, the force moving the restricting member to the restricting position (in the Figure 12 In the direction of the arrow, and in Figure 13A and Figure 13B ). The tray restriction unit 91 c is provided at an upper portion of the restriction member 91 and abuts against the tray locking portion 50 a of the tray unit 50 to restrict movement of the tray unit 50 .

[0178] Furthermore, the restricting structure 90 has a transfer side surface 40a serving as a contact portion provided in the transfer unit 40, and a transfer protrusion 91d serving as a contacted portion provided in the restricting member 91 and capable of contacting the transfer side surface 40a. The transfer protrusion 91d is provided at the lower portion of the restricting member 91. A hole 100a is provided in the apparatus body 1A of the main frame 100, through which the tray restricting unit 91c and the transfer protrusion 91d pass.

[0179] like Figure 13A As shown, when the transfer unit 40 is not drawn out from the apparatus body 1A (when it is in the second inner position Ci2), the transfer side surface 40a of the transfer unit 40 contacts the transfer protrusion 91d of the restricting member 91. This is because, as shown in FIG. Figure 13B As shown, when the transfer unit 40 is withdrawn, the transfer protrusion 91d is located inside the second space K2, which serves as a space through which the transfer unit 40 passes when it is withdrawn from the apparatus body 1A. Here, when the transfer unit 40 is withdrawn, the transfer unit 40 is more than a predetermined distance away from the second inner position Ci2.

[0180] Thus, the restricting member 91 is pressed by the transfer unit 40 in the direction against the force of the spring 93 and positioned at the permissible position. When the restricting member 91 is at the permissible position, the tray restricting unit 91c is located in the first space K1 (defined by Figure 13A When the tray unit 50 is withdrawn from the apparatus body 1A, the tray unit 50 passes through the first space. Therefore, the tray unit 50 can move between the first inner position Ci1 and the first outer position Co1 without being restricted from moving from the attached position.

[0181] like Figure 13B As shown, when the transfer unit 40 is drawn out from the apparatus main body 1A while the tray unit 50 is accommodated in the apparatus main body 1A, the transfer side surface 40a of the transfer unit 40 moves and no longer contacts the transfer protrusion 91d of the restricting member 91. As a result, the restricting member 91 is moved due to the force of the spring 93. Figure 13B , and moves to a position where the frame abutting portion 91h abuts the main frame 100. In this case, the transfer protrusion 91d is located inside the second space K2, which is used as a space for the transfer unit 40 to pass through when the transfer unit 40 is pulled out from the device body 1A. In addition, the tray limiting unit 91c is located inside the first space K1. More specifically, the tray limiting unit 91c is located downstream of the tray locking portion 50a in the pulling-out direction (tray removal direction) Dd1 of the tray unit 50. In this state, when the tray unit 50 moves along the tray removal direction Dd1, the tray locking portion 50a contacts the tray limiting unit 91c. Therefore, the tray unit 50 cannot move in the tray removal direction Dd1. In this case, as Figure 13B As shown, when viewed along the rotation axis direction of the restricting member 91, the tray restricting unit 91c is closer to the tray unit 50 than the rotation axis of the restricting member 91 is to the tray unit 50. Therefore, when the tray restricting unit 91c receives a force from the tray locking portion 50a, the tray restricting unit 91c is prevented from being disengaged from the tray locking portion 50a.

[0182] In this manner, when the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 are attached to the apparatus main body 1A, the restricting member 91 is located in the permissive position, and when the transfer unit 40 is withdrawn from the apparatus main body 1A, the restricting member 91 is located in the restricting position. Then, when the transfer unit 40 is withdrawn from the apparatus main body 1A while the tray unit 50 is housed therein, the restricting member 91 moves from the permissive position to the restricting position. In this example, the restricting member 91 moves from the permissive position to the restricting position due to the force of the spring 93, but the restricting member 91 may be configured so that it moves from the permissive position to the restricting position due to its own weight.

[0183] If the user performs an operation to pull out the tray unit 50 when the restricting member 91 is in the restricting position, the tray restricting unit 91c may receive a force from the tray locking portion 50a in the tray removal direction Dd1. If this force is received only by the restricting member 91 or the holding member 92, a load is applied to the restricting member 91 or the holding member 92.

[0184] In Example 1, if Figure 13B As shown, a surface 91i contacting the tray locking portion 50a of the tray restriction unit 91c and an opposite surface 91e on the opposite side in the tray removal direction Dd1 abut against an end portion 100b of the hole 100a in the tray removal direction Dd1.

[0185] In addition, if Figure 13C As shown, the abutting surface 50c of the tray locking portion 50a that abuts against the surface 91i of the tray restricting unit 91c is formed as an inclined surface. This inclined surface is formed so that when the surface 91i contacts the abutting surface 50c, if a force is applied to the tray unit 50 in the tray removal direction Dd1, a force is applied to push the tray unit 50 downward (in the direction indicated by the arrow F).

[0186] With the above configuration, when force is applied to the tray unit 50 in the tray removal direction Dd1, the upper surface 91f of the tray restricting member 91c abuts against the end 100c of the hole 100a in the main frame 100. The end 100c is perpendicular to the tray removal direction Dd1 and the rotational axis of the photosensitive drum 61, and is directed upward. Therefore, since the force used to withdraw the tray unit 50 is received by the main frame 100, the load on the restricting member 91 and the retaining member 92 can be reduced, and deformation or damage can be prevented. Consequently, the movement of the tray unit 50 can be more reliably restricted.

[0187] like Figure 14 As shown, when the tray unit 50 moves from the first outer position Co1 to the first inner position Ci1, the distal end of the transfer side surface 40a contacts the inclined surface 91g connected to the transfer protrusion 91d, causing the restricting member 91 to rotate counterclockwise and retract. Therefore, the restricting member 91 does not hinder movement of the tray unit 50 in the attachment direction. Furthermore, when the transfer unit 40 moves from the second outer position Co2 to the second inner position Ci2, the distal end of the transfer side surface 40a contacts the inclined surface 91g, causing the restricting member 91 to rotate and retract. Therefore, the restricting member 91 does not hinder movement of the transfer unit 40 in the attachment direction.

[0188] As described above, according to Example 1, when the transfer unit 40 is withdrawn from the apparatus main body 1A while the tray unit 50 is housed in the apparatus main body 1A, withdrawal of the tray unit 50 from the apparatus main body 1A is restricted. Specifically, when the transfer unit 40 is in the second outer position Co2 or when the transfer unit has moved to the second outer position Co2 (when the transfer unit is more than a predetermined distance away from the second inner position Ci2), the tray unit 50 cannot be moved to the first outer position Co1. In the image forming apparatus, the tray unit 50 is supported by the transfer unit 40 during at least a portion of the process of withdrawing the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 together from the apparatus main body 1A, thereby avoiding problems caused by withdrawing the tray unit 50 alone.

[0189] Here, in Example 1, an example is shown in which the restricting member 91 can move between the restricting position and the allowing position by rotational movement, but the restricting member 91 can move between the restricting position and the allowing position by linear movement. Figure 13A and Figure 13BIn the embodiment, the retaining member 92 is configured to support the restricting member 91 so that the restricting member 91 can move in a direction perpendicular to the main frame 100. A spring for applying a force to the restricting member 91 in a direction perpendicular to the main frame 100 and toward the transfer unit 40 can be provided in the main frame 100. When the transfer unit 40 is in the second inner position Ci2, the restricting member 91 is pushed in by the transfer unit 40 against the force of the spring, and the tray restricting unit 91c moves to a position outside the first space K1 where it does not engage with the tray locking portion 50a. This allows the tray unit 50 to be withdrawn. Furthermore, when the transfer unit 40 is more than a predetermined distance away from the second inner position Ci2, the restricting member 91 moves into the second space K2 due to the force of the spring, and the tray restricting unit 91c moves to a position within the first space K1 where it engages with the tray locking portion 50a. This restricts the withdrawal of the tray unit 50.

[0190] Variations

[0191] As described above, the photosensitive drum 61, the charging roller 62, and the developing roller 71 may be provided in the cartridge P or the tray 51. This will be referred to as 11A to 11D Provide a description. 11A to 11D 1 is a view showing a tray unit 50 according to a modified example.

[0192] For example, Figure 11A As shown, the tray 51 may include a photosensitive drum 61 and a charging roller 62 , and the cartridge P may include a developing roller 71 .

[0193] like Figure 11B As shown, the cartridge P may include a photosensitive drum 61, a drum cartridge P1 including a charging roller 62, and a developer cartridge P2 including a developer roller 71. That is, the cartridge P may be divided into the drum cartridge P1 and the developer cartridge P2. In this case, preferably, the drum cartridge P1 and the developer cartridge P2 can be independently detached from the tray 51.

[0194] In addition, if Figure 11C As shown, the cartridge P may include a photosensitive drum 61, a charging roller 62, a process cartridge PR including a developing roller 71, and a toner cartridge PT including toner for replenishing the process cartridge PR. That is, the cartridge P may be divided into the process cartridge PR and the toner cartridge PT.

[0195] In addition, if Figure 11D As shown, the cartridge P may include a drum cartridge P1, a developer cartridge P2, and a toner cartridge PT. The drum cartridge P1 includes a photosensitive drum 61 and a charging roller 62. The developer cartridge P2 includes a developer roller 71. The toner cartridge PT contains toner for replenishing the developer cartridge P2. In other words, the cartridge P can be divided into the drum cartridge P1, the developer cartridge P2, and the toner cartridge PT.

[0196] In Example 1, the tray unit 50 is an image forming unit including a detachable cartridge P including a photosensitive drum 61, a charging roller 62, and a developing roller 71, but the configuration of the tray unit 50 is not limited thereto. For example, the tray unit 50 may include a detachable toner cartridge including a toner container for accommodating toner.

[0197] Example 2

[0198] Will refer to Figure 15 、 Figure 16A 、 Figure 16B and Figure 17 Example 2 of the present invention is described. Example 2 differs from Example 1 in the restriction structure that restricts the tray unit 50 from being withdrawn from the apparatus main body 1A when the transfer unit 40 is withdrawn from the apparatus main body 1A while the tray unit 50 is accommodated in the apparatus main body 1A. The restriction structure 900 in Example 2 is provided on the Figure 15 The dotted line indicates the part, and Figure 16A 、 Figure 16B and Figure 17 is a view showing details thereof.

[0199] In Example 2, when the tray unit 50 is housed in the apparatus body 1A, it can be Figure 16A The first receiving position shown and Figure 16B The second receiving position is shown.

[0200] When the transfer unit 40 is attached to the apparatus body 1A, the tray unit 50 is supported by the transfer unit 40 and positioned in the first storage position. In this case, the transfer unit 40 is supported by the tray guide 94 provided in the apparatus body 1A. Therefore, it can be said that the tray unit 50 is supported by the apparatus body 1A via the transfer unit 40.

[0201] When the transfer unit 40 is attached to the apparatus body 1A, the tray unit 50 is located above the transfer unit 40 in the vertical direction. Therefore, when the tray unit 50 is supported by the transfer unit 40, as shown in FIG. Figure 17 As shown, the transfer connection unit 51A rests on the downward arm portion 48A1 between the downward arm portion 48A1 and the upward arm portion 48A2 constituting the tray connection groove 48A. Therefore, the lower surface 51A1 of the transfer connection unit 51A contacts the upper surface 48A3 of the downward arm portion 48A1.

[0202] When the transfer unit 40 is pulled out of the apparatus main body 1A, the tray unit 50 is supported by the tray guide 94 provided in the apparatus main body 1A and positioned in the second storage position. Therefore, it can be said that the tray unit 50 is supported by the apparatus main body 1A. The case where the transfer unit 40 is pulled out of the apparatus main body 1A is when the transfer unit 40 is in the second outer position Co2 or when the transfer unit 40 is in the process of moving to the second outer position Co2. The case where the transfer unit 40 is in the process of moving to the second outer position Co2 is when the transfer unit 40 is more than a predetermined distance away from the second inner position Ci2, which is the attachment position.

[0203] When the transfer unit 40 is pulled out from the apparatus main body 1A while the tray unit 50 is stored in the apparatus main body 1A, the tray unit 50 moves from the first storage position to the second storage position. In Example 2, the second storage position is vertically lower than the first storage position. Therefore, when the transfer unit 40 is pulled out from the apparatus main body 1A while the tray unit 50 is stored in the apparatus main body 1A, the tray unit 50 moves downward due to its own weight and moves from the first storage position to the second storage position.

[0204] When the transfer unit 40 moves from the second inner position Ci2 to the second outer position Co2, or when the transfer unit moves in the opposite direction while the tray unit 50 is accommodated in the apparatus main body 1A, the lower surface of the transfer unit 40 moves while being supported by the tray guide 94. Similarly, when the tray unit 50 is withdrawn from the apparatus main body 1A together with the transfer unit 40, the lower surface of the transfer unit 40 moves while being supported by the tray guide 94. In this case, the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position Ci1 to the first outer position Co1 or in the opposite direction together with the transfer unit 40 while being supported by the transfer unit 40.

[0205] A protruding portion 50b serving as an engaging portion is provided on the lower surface of the tray unit 50 on the side closer to the second end 1b2. A recessed portion 94a serving as an engaged portion is provided in the tray guide 94 at a position facing the protruding portion 50b of the tray unit 50 when the tray unit 50 is in the first storage position.

[0206] When the tray unit 50 is in the first accommodation position, as shown in FIG. Figure 16A As shown, the protruding portion 50b serving as the engaging portion is separated from the recessed portion 94a serving as the engaged portion, and the engagement between the protruding portion 50b and the recessed portion 94a is released. When the engagement between the protruding portion 50b and the recessed portion 94a is released, the tray unit 50 is allowed to be withdrawn from the apparatus body 1A.

[0207] When the tray unit 50 is in the second accommodation position, as shown in FIG. Figure 16BAs shown, the protrusion 50b is engaged with the recess 94a. When the protrusion 50b and the recess 94a are engaged with each other, the tray unit 50 is restricted from being withdrawn from the apparatus body 1A.

[0208] When the transfer unit 40 is in the second inner position Ci2 (the second inner position is the attachment position of the transfer unit 40 to the apparatus body 1A), the tray unit 50 is in the first storage position, and the engagement between the protrusion 50b and the recess 94a is released. When the engagement between the protrusion 50b and the recess 94a is released, the tray unit 50 is allowed to be withdrawn from the apparatus body 1A together with the transfer unit 40.

[0209] When the transfer unit 40 is withdrawn from the apparatus main body 1A, the tray unit 50 moves to the second storage position, and the protruding portion 50b and the recessed portion 94a engage with each other. Therefore, when the transfer unit 40 is withdrawn from the apparatus main body 1A while the tray unit 50 is stored in the apparatus main body 1A, withdrawal of the tray unit 50 from the apparatus main body 1A is restricted.

[0210] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to further develop an imaging device in which a plurality of units can be drawn out from the device main body.

[0211] While the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. An imaging device comprising: Equipment body; a first unit configured to be attached to the device body; a second unit configured to be attached to the device body, the second unit configured to: (1) be withdrawn from the device body together with the first unit, and (2) be withdrawn from the device body when the first unit is accommodated in the device body; as well as a restriction structure configured to restrict the first unit from being withdrawn from the apparatus main body in a case where the second unit is withdrawn from the apparatus main body while the first unit is accommodated in the apparatus main body, The second unit supports the first unit during at least a portion of a process in which the first unit and the second unit are withdrawn together from the device body.

2. The imaging device according to claim 1, in, The first unit is an imaging unit, and the imaging unit includes: Photosensitive drum; and a developing unit configured to form a toner image on a surface of the photosensitive drum, and Here, the second unit is a belt unit having a belt configured to be in contact with the photosensitive drum.

3. The imaging device according to claim 2, wherein the first unit includes a cartridge detachable from the first unit, and wherein the developing unit is included in the cartridge. 4 . The imaging device according to claim 1 , wherein the second unit is located below the first unit.

5. The imaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The device body includes: an opening through which the first unit and the second unit pass when the first unit and the second unit are withdrawn; and a door configured to open and close the opening, and During at least a portion of a process in which the first unit and the second unit are withdrawn together from the apparatus body, the door supports the second unit, and the first unit is supported by the second unit supported by the door.

6. The imaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, Wherein said restriction structure comprises: a joint portion; and an engaged portion configured to engage with the engaging portion, wherein the first unit can be drawn out from the apparatus main body in a state in which the engaging portion and the engaged portion are not engaged with each other, and In a state in which the engaging portion and the engaged portion are engaged with each other, the first unit is restricted from being drawn out from the apparatus main body.

7. The imaging device according to claim 6, in, In a state where the second unit is in an attachment position where the second unit is attached to the apparatus main body, the engaging portion and the engaged portion are not engaged with each other, and wherein, in a case where the second unit is away from the attachment position, the engaging portion and the engaged portion are engaged with each other.

8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the first unit can be drawn out from the apparatus main body together with the second unit in a state in which the engaging portion and the engaged portion are not engaged with each other.

9. The imaging device according to claim 6, wherein the restricting structure includes a moving portion provided in the device body and including the engaged portion, the moving portion being configured to move between an allowable position in which the engaged portion is separated from the engaging portion and a restricting position in which the engaged portion is engaged with the engaging portion, wherein the moving portion is positioned at the permissible position in a state where the first unit and the second unit are attached to the device main body, wherein the moving portion is positioned at the restricted position in a state where the second unit is drawn out from the apparatus main body, and wherein the moving portion moves from the allowing position to the restricting position in a case where the second unit is drawn out of the apparatus main body while the first unit is accommodated in the apparatus main body.

10. The imaging device according to claim 9, Wherein said restriction structure comprises: a contact portion provided in the second unit; a contacted portion provided in the moving portion and configured to be in contact with the contact portion; as well as an applying portion that applies a force to the moving portion in a direction toward the restricting position, wherein the contact portion of the second unit is in contact with the contacted portion of the moving portion in a state where the second unit is not drawn out from the apparatus main body, the moving portion is positioned in the permissible position by being pressed by the second unit in a direction that overcomes the force of the applying portion, and wherein the moving portion is moved to the restricting position by the force of the applying portion in a case where the second unit is drawn out of the apparatus main body while the first unit is accommodated in the apparatus main body.

11. The imaging device according to claim 9, Wherein said restriction structure comprises: a contact portion provided in the second unit; a contacted portion provided in the moving portion and configured to be in contact with the contact portion; as well as an applying portion that applies a force to the moving portion in a direction toward the restricting position, wherein when the moving part is in the permissible position, The engaged portion is positioned outside a first space through which the first unit passes when being drawn out from the apparatus main body, and The contacted portion contacts the contact portion of the second unit, and wherein when the moving part is in the restricted position, The engaged portion contacts the engaging portion at a position within the first space and is located in a direction in which the first unit is withdrawn relative to the engaging portion, and The contacted portion is positioned inside a second space through which the second unit passes when being drawn out from the apparatus main body.

12. The imaging device according to claim 6, wherein in a state where the first unit is accommodated in the device main body, With the second unit attached to the apparatus main body, the first unit is positioned at a first accommodation position in which the engaging portion provided in the first unit is separated from the engaged portion, In a state where the second unit is drawn out from the apparatus main body, the first unit is positioned at a second housing position where the engaging portion is engaged with the engaged portion, and wherein in a case where the second unit is drawn out from the apparatus main body while the first unit is accommodated in the apparatus main body, the first unit moves from the first accommodation position to the second accommodation position.

13. The imaging device according to claim 12, The second accommodation position is lower than the first accommodation position in the vertical direction, wherein in a state where the first unit is accommodated in the device main body, With the second unit attached to the device main body, the first unit is in the first housing position by being supported by the second unit, and When the second unit is pulled out from the apparatus main body, the first unit is in the second housing position by being supported by the apparatus main body, and In the case where the second unit is drawn out from the apparatus main body while the first unit is accommodated in the apparatus main body, the first unit moves downward by its weight and moves from the first accommodation position to the second accommodation position.

14. The imaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the apparatus main body includes a fixing unit configured to fix the toner image transferred onto the recording material, the fixing unit configured to move between a use position in which a fixing operation is performed and a retracted position in which the fixing unit is retracted from the use position, wherein when the fixing unit is in the use position, at least a portion of the fixing unit is located inside at least one of a first space through which the first unit passes when being drawn out of the apparatus main body and a second space through which the second unit passes when being drawn out of the apparatus main body, and When the fixing unit is located at the retracted position, the fixing unit is located outside the first space and the second space.

15. An imaging device comprising: Equipment body; a first unit configured to be attached to the device body; a second unit configured to be attached to the device body, the second unit configured to: (1) be withdrawn from the device body together with the first unit, and (2) be withdrawn from the device body while the first unit is accommodated in the device body; as well as a restriction structure configured to restrict the first unit from being withdrawn from the apparatus main body in a case where the second unit is withdrawn from the apparatus main body while the first unit is accommodated in the apparatus main body, The first unit is an imaging unit, and the imaging unit includes: Photosensitive drum; and a developing unit configured to form a toner image on a surface of the photosensitive drum, and Here, the second unit is a belt unit having a belt configured to be in contact with the photosensitive drum.

16. The imaging device according to claim 15, wherein the first unit includes a cartridge detachable from the first unit, and wherein the developing unit is included in the cartridge.

17. The imaging device according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the second unit is located below the first unit.

18. The imaging device according to claim 15 or 16, The device body comprises: an opening through which the first unit and the second unit pass when the first unit and the second unit are withdrawn; and a door configured to open and close the opening, and in, During at least a portion of a process in which the first unit and the second unit are withdrawn together from the apparatus main body, the door supports the second unit, and the first unit is supported by the second unit supported by the door.

19. The imaging device according to claim 15 or 16, Wherein said restriction structure comprises: a joint portion; and an engaged portion configured to engage with the engaging portion, wherein the first unit can be drawn out from the apparatus main body in a state in which the engaging portion and the engaged portion are not engaged with each other, and In a state in which the engaging portion and the engaged portion are engaged with each other, the first unit is restricted from being drawn out from the apparatus main body.

20. The imaging device according to claim 19, in, In a state where the second unit is in an attachment position where the second unit is attached to the apparatus main body, the engaging portion and the engaged portion are not engaged with each other, and wherein, in a case where the second unit is away from the attachment position, the engaging portion and the engaged portion are engaged with each other.

21. The image forming apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the first unit can be drawn out from the apparatus main body together with the second unit in a state in which the engaging portion and the engaged portion are not engaged with each other.

22. The imaging device according to claim 19, wherein the restricting structure includes a moving portion provided in the device body and including the engaged portion, the moving portion being configured to move between an allowable position in which the engaged portion is separated from the engaging portion and a restricting position in which the engaged portion is engaged with the engaging portion, wherein the moving portion is positioned at the permissible position in a state where the first unit and the second unit are attached to the device main body, wherein the moving portion is positioned at the restricted position in a state where the second unit is drawn out from the apparatus main body, and wherein the moving portion moves from the allowing position to the restricting position in a case where the second unit is drawn out of the apparatus main body while the first unit is accommodated in the apparatus main body.

23. The imaging device according to claim 22, Wherein said restriction structure comprises: a contact portion provided in the second unit; a contacted portion provided in the moving portion and configured to be in contact with the contact portion; as well as an applying portion that applies a force to the moving portion in a direction toward the restricting position, wherein the contact portion of the second unit is in contact with the contacted portion of the moving portion in a state where the second unit is not drawn out from the apparatus main body, the moving portion is positioned in the permissible position by being pressed by the second unit in a direction that overcomes the force of the applying portion, and wherein the moving portion is moved to the restricting position by the force of the applying portion in a case where the second unit is drawn out of the apparatus main body while the first unit is accommodated in the apparatus main body.

24. The imaging device according to claim 22, The restriction structure includes: a contact portion provided in the second unit; a contacted portion provided in the moving portion and configured to be in contact with the contact portion; as well as an applying portion that applies a force to the moving portion in a direction toward the restricting position, wherein when the moving part is in the permissible position, The engaged portion is positioned outside a first space through which the first unit passes when being drawn out from the apparatus main body, and The contacted portion contacts the contact portion of the second unit, and wherein when the moving part is in the restricted position, The engaged portion contacts the engaging portion at a position inside the first space and is located in a direction in which the first unit is drawn out relative to the engaging portion, and The contacted portion is positioned inside the second space through which the second unit passes when being drawn out from the apparatus main body.

25. The imaging device according to claim 19, wherein in a state where the first unit is accommodated in the device main body, With the second unit attached to the apparatus main body, the first unit is positioned at a first accommodation position in which the engaging portion provided in the first unit is separated from the engaged portion, In a state where the second unit is drawn out from the apparatus main body, the first unit is positioned at a second housing position where the engaging portion is engaged with the engaged portion, and wherein in a case where the second unit is drawn out from the apparatus main body while the first unit is accommodated in the apparatus main body, the first unit moves from the first accommodation position to the second accommodation position.

26. The imaging device according to claim 25, The second accommodation position is lower than the first accommodation position in the vertical direction, wherein in a state where the first unit is accommodated in the device main body, With the second unit attached to the device main body, the first unit is in the first housing position by being supported by the second unit, When the second unit is pulled out from the apparatus main body, the first unit is in the second housing position by being supported by the apparatus main body, and In the case where the second unit is drawn out from the apparatus main body while the first unit is accommodated in the apparatus main body, the first unit moves downward by its weight and moves from the first accommodation position to the second accommodation position.

27. The imaging device according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the apparatus main body includes a fixing unit configured to fix the toner image transferred onto the recording material, the fixing unit configured to move between a use position in which a fixing operation is performed and a retracted position in which the fixing unit is retracted from the use position, wherein, when the fixing unit is in the use position, at least a portion of the fixing unit is positioned inside at least one of a first space through which the first unit passes when being drawn out of the apparatus main body and a second space through which the second unit passes when being drawn out of the apparatus main body, and Wherein, when the fixing unit is located at the retracted position, the fixing unit is positioned outside the first space and the second space.

Images