Structure for accommodating waste toner removed from intermediate transfer belt

Abstract

An intermediate transfer belt assembly is provided. The cleaning blade is used to remove waste toner from the surface of the intermediate transfer belt. The first waste toner accommodating unit accommodates waste toner falling from the cleaning blade to a first side opposite to the intermediate transfer belt. The second waste toner accommodating unit accommodates waste toner falling from the cleaning blade to a second side opposite to the first side. The shutter is switchable between an open position for opening the waste toner inlet of the second waste toner accommodating unit and a closed position for closing the waste toner inlet.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] An electrophotographic image forming apparatus supplies toner contained in a developing device to an electrostatic latent image formed on a photoconductor to form a visible toner image, transfers the toner image to a print medium, and fixes the transferred toner image to the print medium. The toner image can be transferred to the print medium via an intermediate transfer belt. Waste toner remaining on the intermediate transfer belt after the transfer is removed by a cleaning device. The removed waste toner is contained in a waste toner container. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0002] Figure 1 is a schematic view illustrating an example image forming apparatus.

[0003] Figure 2 is a schematic exploded perspective view illustrating an example of a cleaning device.

[0004] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line X1-X1' of Figure 2 , illustrating an example state in which the shutter is positioned in a closed position.

[0005] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line X1-X1' of Figure 2 , illustrating an example state in which the shutter is positioned in an open position.

[0006] Figure 5 is a view illustrating an example in which an intermediate transfer belt assembly is attached / detached.

[0007] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line X2-X2' of Figure 2 , illustrating an example state in which the cleaner cover is positioned in a blocking position in an example of a structure for discharging waste toner from a first waste toner containing unit.

[0008] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line X2-X2' of Figure 2 , illustrating an example state in which the cleaner cover is positioned in a discharging position in an example of a structure for discharging waste toner from a first waste toner containing unit.

[0009] Figure 8 is a schematic partial perspective view illustrating an example of a conveying pipe.

[0010] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line X3-X3' of Figure 8 , illustrating an example state in which an intermediate transfer belt assembly is removed from an image forming apparatus.

[0011] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along the lineFigure 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line X3-X3' of FIG. 3, illustrating an example state in which the intermediate transfer belt assembly is mounted on the image forming apparatus.

[0012] Figure 11 is a partial perspective view illustrating an example of the interference member, particularly illustrating an example state in which the intermediate transfer belt assembly is removed from the image forming apparatus.

[0013] Figure 12 is a partial perspective view illustrating an example of the interference member, illustrating an example state in which the intermediate transfer belt assembly is mounted on the image forming apparatus.

[0014] Figure 13 is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating an example of a structure in which the shutter is opened and closed in conjunction with the attachment / detachment operation of the waste toner container.

[0015] Figure 14 is a schematic exploded perspective view illustrating an example of the photosensitive unit.

[0016] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line X4-X4' of FIG. 4, illustrating an example state in which the shutter is positioned at the closed position. Figure 14

[0017] is a cross-sectional view taken along line X4-X4' of FIG. 4, illustrating an example state in which the shutter is positioned at the open position. Figure 16 Figure 14

[0018] Figure 17 is a partial perspective view illustrating an example of a structure in which the shutter is opened and closed in conjunction with the attachment / detachment operation of the waste toner container.

[0019] Figure 18 is a partial perspective view illustrating an example of a structure in which the shutter is opened and closed in conjunction with the attachment / detachment operation of the waste toner container. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] ​​An electrophotographic image forming apparatus includes an intermediate transfer belt onto which a toner image formed on a photoconductor is temporarily transferred. After the toner image is transferred from the intermediate transfer belt to a print medium, untransferred toner remains on the intermediate transfer belt. A cleaning device removes the remaining toner from the intermediate transfer belt. The cleaning device includes a cleaning blade that contacts a surface of the intermediate transfer belt. As the intermediate transfer belt travels, waste toner remaining on the surface of the intermediate transfer belt is removed by the cleaning blade and falls to a cleaning side (first side) of the cleaning blade. A first waste toner containing unit in which the waste toner is contained is located at the first side of the cleaning blade. A portion of the waste toner removed from the intermediate transfer belt can fall to a side (second side) opposite the first side beyond two edges of the cleaning blade in a longitudinal direction. The waste toner that falls to the second side can contaminate an interior of the image forming apparatus.

[0021] The present disclosure provides a cleaning device including a second waste toner containing unit in which waste toner moved to a second side of a cleaning blade can be contained. The present disclosure provides a cleaning device having a structure for preventing leakage of waste toner contained in the second waste toner containing unit. The present disclosure provides an intermediate transfer belt assembly including an intermediate transfer belt and a cleaning device. The present disclosure provides an image forming apparatus including the intermediate transfer belt assembly. The present disclosure provides a cartridge including a cleaning device in which waste toner removed from a photoconductor is contained.

[0022] An intermediate transfer belt assembly according to an aspect of the present disclosure can include an intermediate transfer belt and a cleaning device (intermediate transfer belt cleaning device) for removing waste toner from a surface of the intermediate transfer belt. The cleaning device includes a cleaning blade (cleaning member) for removing the waste toner from the surface of the intermediate transfer belt. Waste toner that falls to a first side opposite the intermediate transfer belt from the cleaning blade is contained in a first waste toner containing unit. Waste toner that falls to a second side opposite the first side from the cleaning blade is contained in a second waste toner containing unit. A shutter is provided in the second waste toner containing unit. The shutter can be switched between an open position and a closed position to open and close a waste toner inlet of the second waste toner containing unit. According to this configuration, contamination of the intermediate transfer belt and an image forming apparatus in which the intermediate transfer belt assembly is installed by waste toner falling to the second side of the cleaning blade can be reduced or prevented. In an example, the shutter can be elastically biased to the closed position by an elastic member. In an example, a gap between the shutter and the waste toner inlet can be sealed by a sealing member. In an example, a waste toner outlet for discharging waste toner inside the first waste toner containing unit can be opened and closed by a cleaner cover. The shutter can open and close the waste toner inlet in conjunction with the opening / closing operation of the cleaner cover.

[0023] An image forming apparatus according to an aspect of the disclosure can include a photoconductor having a surface on which a toner image is formed, an intermediate transfer belt to which the toner image is transferred, and a cleaning device (intermediate transfer belt cleaning device) for removing waste toner from a surface of the intermediate transfer belt. In an example, the intermediate transfer belt and the cleaning device can form an intermediate transfer belt assembly that can be attached to / detached from the image forming apparatus, and a shutter can be switched between an open position and a closed position in conjunction with an attachment / detachment operation of the intermediate transfer belt assembly. In an example, the cleaner cover can be switched from the blocking position to the discharge position and the shutter can be switched to the open position by interfering with the cleaner cover switched to the discharge position, in a case where the intermediate transfer belt assembly is mounted on the image forming apparatus. In an example, a first interference portion can be provided on a conveyance duct for connecting a waste toner outlet to a waste toner container, the first interference portion being for switching the cleaner cover to the discharge position by interfering with the cleaner cover, in a case where the intermediate transfer belt assembly is mounted on the image forming apparatus. In an example, the image forming apparatus can include an interference member for switching the shutter to the open position by interfering with the shutter to open a waste toner inlet, in a case where the intermediate transfer belt assembly is mounted on the image forming apparatus. In an example, the interference member can be provided on the conveyance duct. In an example, the shutter can be opened and closed in conjunction with an attachment / detachment operation of the waste toner container.

[0024] A cartridge according to an aspect of the disclosure can include a photoconductor and a cleaning device (photoconductor cleaning device) for removing waste toner from a surface of the photoconductor. The cleaning device can include a cleaning blade (cleaning member) for removing waste toner from the photoconductor, a first waste toner containing unit for containing waste toner that falls to a first side of the cleaning blade opposite the photoconductor, a second waste toner containing unit for containing waste toner that falls to a second side opposite the first side of the cleaning blade, and a shutter for opening and closing a waste toner inlet of the second waste toner containing unit. In an example, the shutter can be elastically biased to a position for closing the waste toner inlet by an elastic member.

[0025] A cleaning device according to one aspect of the disclosure includes a cleaning blade (cleaning member) for removing waste toner from a cleaning object. Waste toner that falls from the cleaning blade to a first side opposite the cleaning object is contained in a first waste toner containing unit. Waste toner that falls from the cleaning blade to a second side opposite the first side is contained in a second waste toner containing unit. A shutter is provided in the second waste toner containing unit. The shutter can be switched between an open position and a closed position to open and close a waste toner inlet of the second waste toner containing unit. In an example, the shutter can be elastically biased to the closed position by an elastic member. In an example, a gap between the shutter and the waste toner inlet can be sealed by a sealing member. In an example, the cleaning object can be a photoconductor. In an example, the cleaning object can be an intermediate transfer belt. A waste toner outlet for discharging waste toner inside the first waste toner containing unit can be opened and closed by a cleaner cover. The shutter can be opened and closed in conjunction with the opening / closing operation of the cleaner cover.

[0026] Hereinafter, examples of a cleaning device, an intermediate transfer belt assembly, an image forming apparatus, and a cartridge are described in detail with reference to the drawings. Also, the same elements having substantially the same functions are denoted by the same reference numerals in the specification and the drawings, and repetitive description thereof can be omitted.

[0027] Figure 1 is a schematic view illustrating an example image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus of the present example prints a color image on a print medium P by using an electrophotographic method. For example, in Figure 1 , the X direction indicates a direction of travel of the intermediate transfer belt 60, and the Y direction indicates a width direction of the intermediate transfer belt 60. The Z direction is a direction perpendicular to the X direction and the Y direction. With reference to Figure 1 , an example of the image forming apparatus 1 can include a photosensitive drum (photoconductor) 14 having a surface on which a toner image is formed, an intermediate transfer belt 60 to which the toner image is transferred, and a cleaning device 40. The cleaning device 40 removes waste toner remaining on the intermediate transfer belt 60. The cleaning device 40 can form an intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 together with the intermediate transfer belt 60. The intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 can be attached to / detached from the image forming apparatus 1.

[0028] The photosensitive drum 14 is an example of a photoconductor having a surface on which a toner image is formed. The photosensitive drum 14 can include, for example, a conductive metal tube and a photosensitive layer formed on an outer circumference of the conductive metal tube. An electrostatic latent image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 14 by an exposure device 50 described below, and a toner image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 14 by supplying toner to the electrostatic latent image and developing the electrostatic latent image.

[0029] The photosensitive unit 11 may include a photosensitive drum 14. The photosensitive unit 11 may include a charging roller 15, which serves as an example of a charger, for charging the photosensitive drum 14 to have a uniform surface potential. A charging brush or a corona charger may be used instead of the charging roller 15. The photosensitive unit 11 may include a cleaning blade (cleaning member) 33 for removing residual toner (waste toner) from the surface of the photosensitive drum 14 after the intermediate transfer process described below. The cleaning blade 33 can contact the surface of the photosensitive drum 14 and can scrape off the waste toner. The waste toner removed from the surface of the photosensitive drum 14 can be contained in a waste toner container 3 described below via a first waste toner containing unit 31.

[0030] The developing unit 12 may include a developing roller 13 facing the photosensitive drum 14. Due to the developing bias voltage applied to the developing roller 13, the toner contained inside the developing unit 12 can be supplied via the developing roller 13 to the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 14 to form a visible toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 14.

[0031] The photosensitive unit 11 and the developing unit 12 can be replaced individually or as a whole at the end of their lifespan. The photosensitive unit 11 can be a cartridge (photosensitive cassette) that can be attached to / removed from the image forming apparatus 1. The developing unit 12 can be a cartridge (developing cassette) that can be attached to / removed from the image forming apparatus 1. The photosensitive unit 11 and the developing unit 12 can also be a cartridge (process cartridge) that can be integrally attached to / removed from the image forming apparatus 1. The photosensitive unit 11 and the developing unit 12 can be referred to as developing apparatus 10. An example of the image forming apparatus 1 according to this disclosure may include a plurality of developing apparatuses 10. For example, the plurality of developing apparatuses 10 may include a plurality of developing apparatuses 10C, 10M, 10Y, and 10K for forming cyan, magenta, yellow, and black toner images. An example of the image forming apparatus 1 according to this disclosure may include a plurality of toner cartridges 20 for supplying toner to the plurality of developing apparatuses 10. The plurality of toner cartridges 20 may include multiple toner cartridges 20C, 20M, 20Y, and 20K, which respectively contain toners such as cyan, magenta, yellow, and black. When the toner contained inside a toner cartridge 20 is used up, the toner cartridge 20 can be replaced with a new toner cartridge 20.

[0032] The exposure apparatus 50 forms an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drums 14 of the developing apparatuses 10C, 10M, 10Y, and 10K by scanning multiple types of light (e.g., four types of light) onto the drums 14, which are modulated to image information corresponding to each color. A developing bias voltage for developing toner onto the photosensitive drums 14 is applied to the developing rollers 13 of the developing apparatuses 10C, 10M, 10Y, and 10K. Accordingly, a visible toner image is formed on the surface of each of the plurality of photosensitive drums 14.

[0033] Intermediate transfer belt 60 is supported on support rollers 62a, 62b, 62c, and 62d and circulates in the travel direction (X direction). Four intermediate transfer rollers 61 face the photosensitive drums 14 of the developing units 10C, 10M, 10Y, and 10K, with intermediate transfer belt 60 between the intermediate transfer rollers and the photosensitive drums. When an intermediate transfer bias voltage is applied to the fourth intermediate transfer roller 61, the toner image developed on the photosensitive drum 14 is intermediately transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 60. Transfer roller 70 faces support roller 62d, with intermediate transfer belt 60 between the transfer roller and the support roller. Printing medium P, loaded on the feed device 90, is fed along the feed path 91 and between the transfer roller 70 and the intermediate transfer belt 60. Due to the transfer bias voltage applied to the transfer roller 70, the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 60 is transferred to the printing medium P. As the printing medium P passes through the setting unit 80, the toner image is set onto the printing medium P due to heat and pressure. The fully set printing medium P is then discharged by the discharge roller 92.

[0034] After the intermediate transfer process from the photosensitive drum 14 to the intermediate transfer belt 60, the toner remaining on the surface of the photosensitive drum 14 (waste toner) is removed from the surface of the photosensitive drum 14 by a cleaning device. After the transfer process from the intermediate transfer belt 60 to the printing medium P, the toner remaining on the intermediate transfer belt 60 (waste toner) is removed by a cleaning device. The cleaning device may include: a cleaning blade for removing waste toner from the surface of the object being cleaned; a first waste toner receiving unit for receiving waste toner that falls onto the cleaning side of the cleaning blade; a second waste toner receiving unit for receiving waste toner that falls onto the side opposite to the cleaning side of the cleaning blade; and a baffle for opening and closing the waste toner inlet of the second waste toner receiving unit. The baffle may switch between a closed position and an open position (e.g., pivot), the closed position for closing the waste toner inlet and the open position for opening the waste toner inlet. The baffle can be elastically biased to a closed position by an elastic member. The object to be cleaned can be the intermediate transfer belt 60. The object to be cleaned can be the photosensitive drum 14. An example of the cleaning device is described below.

[0035] A cleaning device (intermediate transfer cleaning device) 40 for cleaning intermediate transfer belt 60 is described. Figure 2 This is a schematic exploded perspective view illustrating an example of the cleaning device 40. Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view taken by line X1-X1' illustrates an example state where the cover 44 is in the closed position. Figure 4 It is along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view taken by line X1-X1' illustrates an example state where the cover 44 is in the open position.

[0036] refer to Figures 1 to 4 The cleaning device 40 may include: a cleaning blade (cleaning component) 43 for removing waste toner from the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 60; a first waste toner receiving unit 41 in which waste toner falling onto a first side 43-1 of the cleaning blade 43 is received; a second waste toner receiving unit 42 in which waste toner falling onto a second side 43-2 opposite to the first side 43-1 of the cleaning blade 43 is received; and a baffle 44 for opening and closing the waste toner inlet 421 of the second waste toner receiving unit 42.

[0037] The cleaning blade 43 is an example of an intermediate transfer belt cleaner for removing waste toner from the intermediate transfer belt 60. For example, when the cleaning blade 43 elastically contacts the intermediate transfer belt 60 and the intermediate transfer belt 60 travels, waste toner remaining on the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 60 can be scraped off. The cleaning blade 43 can be, for example, a resilient plate-like member. The cleaning blade 43 can be formed of, for example, elastic rubber or an elastic membrane. For example, the cleaning blade 43 is fixed to the cleaner frame 45 of the cleaning device 40, with a support 433 between the cleaning blade and the cleaner frame. The cleaning end 431 of the cleaning blade 43 can elastically contact the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 60.

[0038] The first waste toner receiving unit 41 is located on the first side (cleaning side) 43-1 opposite to the intermediate transfer belt 60, relative to the cleaning blade 43. The cleaning blade 43 forms the sidewall of the first waste toner receiving unit 41 near the intermediate transfer belt 60. An opening 411 is formed between the cleaning end 431 of the cleaning blade 43 and the upper end of the first waste toner receiving unit 41. Waste toner removed from the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 60 by the cleaning end 431 of the cleaning blade 43 falls from the cleaning blade 43 onto the first side 43-1 and is contained in the first waste toner receiving unit 41.

[0039] A portion of the waste toner removed from the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 60 by the cleaning end 431 of the cleaning blade 43 may fall from the cleaning blade 43 to the second side 43-2. ​​The second side 43-2 is the side of the intermediate transfer belt 60 positioned relative to the cleaning blade 43 and opposite to the first side 43-1. For example, waste toner removed from the intermediate transfer belt 60 and accumulated at the cleaning end 431 of the cleaning blade 43 may fall from the cleaning blade 43 to the second side 43-2 in the width direction Y, in the region adjacent to both ends of the cleaning blade 43. A second waste toner receiving unit 42 is provided on the second side 43-2 of the cleaning blade 43. The second waste toner receiving unit 42 is located below the cleaning end 431 of the cleaning blade 42 and includes an upward-opening waste toner inlet 421. Waste toner falling from the cleaning blade 43 to the second side 43-2 falls through the waste toner inlet 421 into the second waste toner receiving unit 42 and is contained therein.

[0040] As described above, the cleaning device 40 can form an intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 together with the intermediate transfer belt 60. The intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 can be attached to / removed from the image forming apparatus 1. The intermediate transfer belt 60 is a consumable product that is replaced at the end of its life. At the end of the life of the intermediate transfer belt 60, the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 can be removed from the image forming apparatus 1, and a new intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 can be installed on the image forming apparatus 1. Moreover, when a blockage occurs during printing, the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 can be temporarily removed from the image forming apparatus 1 to handle the blockage. For example, the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 can slide in the travel direction X and can be installed on / removed from the image forming apparatus 1. Figure 5 This is a view illustrating an example of the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 being attached / removed. (Reference) Figure 5 Door 1a opens and closes a portion of the image forming apparatus 1, for example, a portion of the image forming apparatus 1 in the travel direction X. When door 1a is open and the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 slides in the travel direction X, the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 can be installed on / removed from the image forming apparatus 1. In the case of the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 being installed on / removed from the image forming apparatus 1, waste toner contained in the second waste toner receiving unit 42 may leak to the outside through the waste toner inlet 421. The leaked waste toner may contaminate the interior of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0041] With this in mind, the cleaning device 40 according to the example of this disclosure includes a cover 44 for opening and closing the second waste toner inlet 421. The cover 44 can be in the closed position (see [link to documentation]). Figure 3 ) and opening location (see Figure 4The device can switch between (e.g., pivot) positions, with the closed position for closing the waste toner inlet 421 and the open position for opening the waste toner inlet 421. For example, the cover 44 may include a cap 441 covering the waste toner inlet 421 and a pivot shaft 442 extending in the width direction Y. Multiple shaft supports 451 may be provided on the cleaner frame 45, with the pivot shaft 442 pivotally supported on these supports. For example, a second waste toner receiving unit 42 may be formed by the cleaner frame 45, and the shaft supports 451 may be provided on the outer wall of the second waste toner receiving unit 42.

[0042] The cover 44 can be elastically biased by the resilient member 46 to be held in the closed position. For example, the resilient member 46 can be implemented as a compression coil spring. One end of the compression coil spring can be supported on the cleaner frame 45, for example, on the outer wall of the second waste toner receiving unit 42. The other end of the compression coil spring can be supported on a support member 443, which is disposed on the cover 44 and opposite to the cover 441 relative to the pivot axis 442. The resilient member 46 is not limited to a compression coil spring, and can be implemented as any of a variety of springs such as a leaf spring, a tension coil spring, or a torsion coil spring.

[0043] The cleaning device 40 may include a sealing member 47, which seals the gap between the waste toner inlet 421 and the cover 441 of the cover 44 when the baffle 44 is in the closed position. The sealing member 47 may be disposed on the bottom surface of the cover 441, i.e., the surface facing the waste toner inlet 421. The sealing member 47 may be formed of, for example, sponge or felt. The sealing member 47 may adhere to the bottom surface of the cover 441. The baffle 44 is held in the closed position by the elastic force of the elastic member 46. The sealing member 47 can be compressed by the elastic force of the elastic member 46, thereby improving the sealing effect.

[0044] During the image formation process, waste toner accumulates inside the first waste toner receiving unit 41, and the waste toner inside the first waste toner receiving unit 41 is discharged from the first waste toner receiving unit 41 to the waste toner container 3. Figure 6 It is along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view taken by line X2-X2' illustrates an example state in which the cleaner cover 48 is in the blocking position in an example of the structure for discharging waste toner from the first waste toner receiving unit 41. Figure 7 It is along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view taken by line X2-X2' illustrates an example state in which the cleaner cap 48 is in the discharge position in an example of the structure for discharging waste toner from the first waste toner receiving unit 41.

[0045] refer to Figures 1 to 4 and Figure 6The first waste toner receiving unit 41 may include a waste toner outlet 413. For example, the first waste toner receiving unit 41 may include a discharge pipe 412 projecting from the side wall of the cleaner frame 45 in the width direction Y. The waste toner outlet 413 may be disposed in the discharge pipe 412. The cleaning device 40 may include a conveying member 414 for conveying waste toner inside the first waste toner receiving unit 41 to the waste toner outlet 413. For example, the conveying member 414 may include a rotating shaft extending in the width direction Y and helical blades formed on the rotating shaft. Although not shown, the conveying member 414 may rotate when connected to one of the plurality of support rollers 62a, 62b, 62c and 62d. Therefore, the conveying member 414 may rotate without employing a separate actuator (such as a motor).

[0046] The cleaner cover 48 opens and closes the waste toner outlet 413. For example, the cleaner cover 48 may be supported on the cleaner frame 45 (e.g., drain pipe 412) to be in a blocked position (see [link]). Figure 6 ) and discharge location (see Figure 7 The waste toner outlet 413 can be switched between two positions: a blocking position to block the waste toner outlet 413 and a discharge position to open the waste toner outlet 413. In the example, the discharge pipe 412 may have a cylindrical shape extending from one end of the first waste toner receiving unit 41 in the width direction Y. The cleaner cover 48 may be supported on the discharge pipe 412 to rotate between the blocking position and the discharge position. The cleaner cover 48 may be elastically biased by a spring 49 to be in the blocking position to block the waste toner outlet 413. For example, the spring 49 may be a torsion spring. The cleaner cover 48 includes a communication port 481. The cleaner cover 48 is held in such a position due to the elastic force of the spring 49. Figure 6 The obstruction position is shown. Waste toner outlet 413 and connecting port 481 are not aligned with each other to close waste toner outlet 413. Figure 7 As shown, when the cleaner cover 48 is in the discharge position, the waste toner outlet 413 and the communication port 481 can be aligned with each other, and the waste toner can be discharged from the first waste toner receiving unit 41 of the cleaning device 40 through the waste toner outlet 413 and the communication port 481.

[0047] As described above, the shield 44 can be switched between an open position and a closed position. When the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 1, the shield 44 is in the open position. With this configuration, waste toner removed from the intermediate transfer belt 60 and falling onto the second side 43-2 of the cleaning blade 43 during image forming can be contained in the second waste toner containing unit 42. Therefore, contamination of the interior of the image forming apparatus 1 due to waste toner and printed image contamination can be reduced or prevented. When the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 is removed from the image forming apparatus 1, the shield 44 is in the closed position. With this configuration, leakage of waste toner from the second waste toner containing unit 42 can be prevented when the intermediate transfer belt assembly is attached / removed.

[0048] Various switching structures can be used to switch the cover 44 between the closed and open positions. In the example, the cover 44 can be switched between the open and closed positions in conjunction with the opening / closing operation of the cleaner cover 48. (See reference) Figure 6 and Figure 7 The cleaner cover 48 may include a switch lever 482. The switch lever 482 may protrude outward from the outer surface of the cleaner cover 48. A first switch protrusion 444 may be provided on the cover 44. The first switch protrusion 444 may protrude in the width direction Y from one end of the cover 44 in the width direction Y. Figure 6 As shown, when the cleaner cap 48 is in the blocked position, the switch lever 482 is spaced apart from the first switch protrusion 444. The cover 44 is held in the closed position by the elastic force of the elastic member 46. When the cleaner cap 48 is rotated counterclockwise, for example, and switched to the discharge position, the switch lever 482 interferes with the first switch protrusion 444. The switch lever 482 pushes the first switch protrusion 444 in the opposite direction to the elastic force of the elastic member 46. Figure 7 As shown, when the cleaner cap 48 reaches the discharge position, the cover 44 reaches the open position. When the cleaner cap 48 rotates from the discharge position to the blocking position, the switch lever 482 moves to space away from the first switch protrusion 444. The cover 44 rotates from the open position to the closed position due to the elastic force of the elastic member 46. Figure 6 As shown, when the cleaner cover 48 reaches the blocking position, the baffle 44 reaches the closed position and is held in the closed position by the elastic force of the elastic member 46.

[0049] As described above, the intermediate transfer belt 60 and the cleaning device 40 form the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2, which can be attached to / removed from the image forming apparatus 1. The mask 44 can switch between an open and a closed position in conjunction with the attachment / removal operation of the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 from the image forming apparatus 1. When the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 is removed from the image forming apparatus 1, the mask 44 can be in the closed position. For example, when the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 1, the mask 44 can directly or indirectly interfere with the interference member provided in the image forming apparatus 1, and can switch from the closed position to the open position. For example, when the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 is removed from the image forming apparatus 1, the direct or indirect interference between the mask 44 and the interference member can be eliminated, and the mask 44 can switch from the open position to the closed position due to the elastic force of the elastic member 46.

[0050] refer to Figure 1 The image forming apparatus 1 may include a waste toner container 3 and a delivery conduit 4. The delivery conduit 4 connects the waste toner container 3 to the waste toner outlet 413 of the first waste toner receiving unit 41. The delivery conduit 4 may be fixedly located inside the image forming apparatus 1. When the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 1, the delivery conduit 4 may be connected to a cleaning device 40, such as a discharge conduit 412, to form a waste toner discharge path from the cleaning device 40 to the waste toner container 3. When the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 is mounted on / removed from the image forming apparatus 1, the shield 44 may switch between an open and closed position by directly or indirectly interfering with an interference member disposed on the delivery conduit 4.

[0051] In the example, when the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 1, the baffle 44 can switch from the closed position to the open position when the interference member provided on the delivery pipe 4 causes the cleaner cover 48 to switch from the blocking position to the discharge position. Figure 8 This is a schematic partial perspective view illustrating an example of the conveying pipe 4. Figure 9 It is along Figure 8 The cross-sectional view taken by line X3-X3' illustrates an example state in which the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 is removed from the image forming device 1. Figure 10 It is along Figure 8 The cross-sectional view taken by line X3-X3' illustrates an example state in which the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 1.

[0052] refer to Figures 8 to 10The conveying conduit 4 may include a first portion 4-1 and a second portion 4-2. The second portion 4-2 protrudes from one end of the first portion 4-1 in the width direction Y. The interiors of the first portion 4-1 and the second portion 4-2 are connected to each other. An inlet 4a facing the waste toner outlet 413 of the discharge conduit 412 is provided in the first portion 4-1 such that waste toner is introduced when the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 1. For example, the inlet 4a is located below the waste toner outlet 413. An outlet 4b is provided in the second portion 4-2. For example, the outlet 4b may be formed in the second portion 4-2 to open downwards. A conveying member 4-3 for conveying waste toner to the outlet 4b is provided inside the first portion 4-1 and the second portion 4-2. The conveying member 4-3 may include a rotating shaft extending in the width direction Y and helical blades spirally protruding from the outer surface of the rotating shaft. The conveying member 4-3 can rotate when connected to one of the plurality of support rollers 62a, 62b, 62c and 62d. The conveying member 4-3 can rotate when connected to the conveying member 414. Therefore, the conveying member 4-3 can rotate without using a separate actuator (such as a motor).

[0053] With the waste toner container 3 installed on the image forming apparatus 1, the second part 4-2 is inserted into the waste toner container 3. Although not shown, a conveyor shield (not shown) for opening and closing the outlet 4b can be provided in the second part 4-2. When the waste toner container 3 is separated from the image forming apparatus 1, the conveyor shield is in the position for closing the outlet 4b. With the waste toner container 3 installed on the image forming apparatus 1, the conveyor shield can be switched to the position for opening the outlet 4b due to the operation of inserting the second part 4-2 into the waste toner container 3. The cleaner cover 48 is in the discharge position, and the waste toner outlet 413 and the connecting port 481 are aligned with each other. The connecting port 481 is aligned with the inlet 4a. The waste toner inside the first waste toner receiving unit 41 is discharged from the waste toner outlet 413 and introduced into the first part 4-1 of the conveying pipe 4 through the inlet 4a. The waste toner is conveyed from the first part 4-1 through the conveying member 4-3 and discharged into the waste toner container 3 through the outlet 4b.

[0054] When the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 1, the cleaner cover 48 can be switched (e.g., rotated) from a blocking position to a discharge position by interfering with a first interference portion 4-4 disposed on the delivery conduit 4. The first interference portion 4-4 is an example of an interference member. For example, the first interference portion 4-4 may be disposed in the first section 4-1 of the delivery conduit 4. The cleaner cover 48 may include an interference lever 483 that can interfere with the first interference portion 4-4. The interference lever 483 may extend outward from the outer surface of the cleaner cover 48. Hereinafter, the process of opening and closing the cover 44 via the cleaner cover 48 in conjunction with the attachment / removal operation of the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 is described.

[0055] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 9 Before the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 is installed on the image forming apparatus 1, the interference lever 483 of the cleaner cover 48 does not interfere with the first interference portion 4-4, and the cleaner cover 48 is held in the blocking position to block the waste toner outlet 413 due to the elastic force of the spring 49. The switch lever 482 of the cleaner cover 48 is positioned spaced apart from the first switch protrusion 444 of the baffle 44. Therefore, the baffle 44 is held in the closed position to close the waste toner inlet 421 of the second waste toner receiving unit 42 due to the elastic force of the elastic member 46. When the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 is installed on the image forming apparatus 1, the interference lever 483 of the cleaner cover 48 approaches the first interference portion 4-4 of the delivery pipe 4. When the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 moves further in the installation direction after the interference lever 483 contacts the first interference portion 4-4, the interference lever 483 is pushed by the first interference portion 4-4 in the opposite direction to the elastic force of the spring 49, and the cleaner cover 48 rotates counterclockwise from the blocking position toward the discharge position. The switch lever 482 interferes with the first switch protrusion 444. The switch lever 482 pushes the first switch protrusion 444 in the opposite direction to the elastic force of the elastic member 46. The cover 44 rotates from the closed position to the open position.

[0056] like Figure 7 and Figure 10 As shown, when the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 reaches the installation position, the cleaner cover 48 rotates, for example, 90 degrees to reach the discharge position. The waste toner outlet 413 of the first waste toner receiving unit 41 is aligned with the communication port 481 of the cleaner cover 48. The communication port 481 of the cleaner cover 48 is aligned with the inlet 4a of the delivery pipe 4. When the cleaner cover 48 reaches the discharge position, the baffle 44 reaches the open position, and the waste toner inlet 421 of the second waste toner receiving unit 42 opens. During image formation, waste toner removed from the intermediate transfer belt 60 and falling from the cleaning blade 43 onto the second side 43-2 can be contained in the second waste toner receiving unit 42.

[0057] As the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 moves in the removal direction, the interference lever 483 moves to space away from the first interference portion 4-4, the cleaner cover 48 rotates from the discharge position to the blocking position due to the elastic force of the spring 49, and the switch lever 482 of the cleaner cover 48 moves to space away from the first switch protrusion 444. The cover 44 rotates from the open position to the closed position due to the elastic force of the elastic member 46. When the cleaner cover 48 reaches the... Figure 6 and Figure 9 When the device is in the blocking position as shown, the cover 44 reaches the closed position. The cleaner cover 48 is held in the blocking position by the elastic force of the spring 49, and the cover 44 is held in the closed position by the elastic force of the elastic member 46.

[0058] As described above, when the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 1, the mask 44 can be switched from the closed position to the open position by directly interfering with the interference member provided in the image forming apparatus 1. Figure 11 This is a partial perspective view illustrating an example of an interference component, particularly illustrating an example state in which the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 is removed from the image forming apparatus 1. Figure 12 This is a partial perspective view illustrating an example of an interference component, particularly showing an example state in which the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 1.

[0059] refer to Figure 11 and Figure 12 An example of a second interference portion 4-5 as an interference member in the image forming apparatus 1 is provided. The second interference portion 4-5 may have a surface that is inclined upward in the mounting direction of the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2. For example, the second interference portion 4-5 is provided on the transport pipe 4. A second switch protrusion 445 that can interfere with the second interference portion 4-5 may be provided on the shield 44. The second switch protrusion 445 may protrude from one end of the shield 44 in the width direction Y. The process of opening and closing the shield 44 by directly interfering with the interference member (e.g., the second interference portion 4-5) in conjunction with the attachment / removal operation of the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 is described.

[0060] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 11Before the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 1, the second interference portion 4-5 is positioned spaced apart from the second switch protrusion 445 of the mask 44. Therefore, the mask 44 is in a closed position due to the elastic force of the elastic member 46 to close the waste toner inlet 421 of the second waste toner receiving unit 42. When the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 1, the second switch protrusion 445 of the mask 44 approaches the second interference portion 4-5. As the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 moves further in the mounting direction after the second switch protrusion 445 contacts the second interference portion 4-5, the second switch protrusion 445 is pushed by the second interference portion 4-5 in a direction opposite to the elastic force of the elastic member 46. The mask 44 rotates from the closed position to the open position.

[0061] like Figure 7 and Figure 12 As shown, when the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 reaches the installation position, the mask 44 reaches the open position, and the waste toner inlet 421 of the second waste toner receiving unit 42 opens. The second switch protrusion 445 is maintained in a state where the second switch protrusion 445 interferes with the second interference portion 4-5. Therefore, the mask 44 can be maintained in the open position. During the image formation process, the waste toner removed from the intermediate transfer belt 60 and falling from the cleaning blade 43 to the second side 43-2 can be contained in the second waste toner receiving unit 42.

[0062] As the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 moves in the removal direction, the second switch protrusion 445 moves to space itself from the second interference portion 4-5, and the baffle 44 rotates from the open position to the closed position due to the elastic force of the elastic member 46. Figure 6 and Figure 11 As shown, when the second switch protrusion 445 is completely separated from the second interference portion 4-5, the shield 44 reaches the closed position. The shield 44 is held in the closed position by the elastic force of the elastic member 46.

[0063] Can provide at the same time Figures 8 to 10 The switching structure and Figure 11 and Figure 12The switching structure is as follows. For example, the cover 44 may include a first switch protrusion 444 and a second switch protrusion 445. The first switch protrusion 444 and the second switch protrusion 445 may protrude from both ends of the cover 44 in the width direction Y. The first interference portion 4-4 and the second interference portion 4-5 may be provided in the image forming apparatus 1 (e.g., the transport pipe 4). As described above, when the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 1, the first interference portion 4-4 switches the cleaner cover 48 from the blocking position to the discharge position. When the cleaner cover 48 switches from the blocking position to the discharge position, the first switch protrusion 444 of the cover 44 interferes with the interference lever 483 of the cleaner cover 48, and therefore, the cover 44 switches from the closed position to the open position. Moreover, as described above, when the intermediate transfer belt assembly 2 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 1, the second interference portion 4-5 interferes with the second switch protrusion 445 of the cover 44, and therefore, the cover 44 switches from the closed position to the open position. With this configuration, since forces are applied to both ends of the cover 44 in the width direction Y to switch the cover 44 from the closed position to the open position, the cover 44 can be switched stably from the closed position to the open position without tilting and can be maintained in the open position.

[0064] Waste toner container 3 contains waste toner discharged from cleaning device 40 (e.g., from first waste toner receiving unit 41). Waste toner container 3 can be attached to / removed from image forming apparatus 1. For example, waste toner container 3 can be moved in the width direction Y and can be attached to / removed from image forming apparatus 1. Although not shown, a door may be provided for opening and closing one side of image forming apparatus 1 in the width direction Y. Waste toner container 3 can be attached to / removed from image forming apparatus 1 by opening the door and moving waste toner container 3 in the width direction Y. Cover 44 can be opened and closed in conjunction with the attachment / removal operation of waste toner container 3.

[0065] Figure 13 This is a partial perspective view illustrating an example of a structure in which the cover 44 is opened and closed during the attachment / removal operation of the waste toner container 3. Figure 13 The diagram shows the waste toner container 3 and the shield 44; other components are not shown. (Reference) Figure 13An interference member 3-1 is disposed on the waste toner container 3. For example, the interference member 3-1 may protrude from the waste toner container 3 toward the shield 44 in the width direction Y (e.g., the +Y direction). The interference member 3-1 includes an interference portion 3-1a. The interference portion 3-1a may have a surface that slopes downward in the width direction Y (e.g., the +Y direction). A switch protrusion 446 is disposed on the shield 44. For example, the switch protrusion 446 may protrude from one end of the shield toward the interference portion 3-1a in the width direction Y (e.g., the -Y direction) in the width direction (e.g., the -Y direction).

[0066] Before the waste toner container 3 is installed on the image forming apparatus 1, the shield 44 is held in the closed position by the elastic force of the elastic member 46 to close the waste toner inlet 421 of the second waste toner receiving unit 42. When the waste toner container 3 moves in the +Y direction to be installed on the image forming apparatus 1, the interference portion 3-1a approaches the switch protrusion 446. As the waste toner container 3 moves continuously in the +Y direction while the interference portion 3-1a contacts the switch protrusion 446, the interference portion 3-1a pushes the switch protrusion 446 in the opposite direction to the elastic force of the elastic member 46. The shield 44 rotates from the closed position to the open position. When the installation of the waste toner container 3 is complete, as... Figure 13 As shown, the shield 44 is in the open position. The interference between the switch protrusion 446 and the interference portion 3-1a is maintained, and the shield 44 is held in the open position. Figure 13 In the current state, when the waste toner container 3 moves in the -Y direction to be removed, the interference portion 3-1a moves to space itself from the switch protrusion 446. The shield 44 rotates from the open position to the closed position due to the elastic force of the elastic member 46. When the interference between the interference portion 3-1a and the switch protrusion 446 is removed, the shield 44 is in the closed position and is maintained in the closed position due to the elastic force of the elastic member 46.

[0067] exist Figure 13 In the structure, the switch lever 482 of the cleaner cover 48 can be omitted. Although not shown, in Figure 13 In this structure, the delivery pipe 4 and the cleaner cover 48 can be omitted. In this case, the discharge pipe 412 can have the same shape as the second part 4-2 of the delivery pipe 4, and when the waste toner container 3 is installed on the image forming apparatus 1, the discharge pipe 412 can be inserted into the waste toner container 3.

[0068] A cleaning apparatus (photoconductor cleaning apparatus) 30 for cleaning photoconductors is described, for example, a photosensitive drum 14 and a photosensitive unit (cassette) 11 employing the cleaning apparatus 30. The photosensitive unit 11 may be integrated with the developing unit 12 to form an integrated developing apparatus (cassette) 10. Figure 14This is a schematic exploded perspective view illustrating an example of the photosensitive unit 11. Figure 15 It is along Figure 14 The cross-sectional view taken by line X4-X4' illustrates an example state where the cover 34 is in the closed position. Figure 16 It is along Figure 14 The cross-sectional view taken by line X4-X4' illustrates an example state where the cover 34 is in the open position.

[0069] refer to Figures 14 to 16 The photosensitive unit 11 includes a photosensitive frame 112. A photoconductor (e.g., a photosensitive drum 14) is rotatably supported on the photosensitive frame 112. The cleaning device 30 may include: a cleaning blade 33 for removing waste toner from the surface of the photosensitive drum 14; a first waste toner receiving unit 31 in which waste toner falling onto a first side 33-1 of the cleaning blade 33 is received; a second waste toner receiving unit 32 in which waste toner falling onto a second side 33-2 opposite to the first side 33-1 of the cleaning blade 33 is received; and a baffle 34 for opening and closing the waste toner inlet 321 of the second waste toner receiving unit 32.

[0070] The cleaning blade 33 is an example of a photoconductor cleaner for removing waste toner from the photoconductor drum 14. For example, when the cleaning blade 33 elastically contacts the photoconductor drum 14 and the photoconductor drum 14 rotates, waste toner remaining on the surface of the photoconductor drum 14 can be scraped off. The cleaning blade 33 can be, for example, a resilient plate-like member. The cleaning blade 33 can be formed of, for example, elastic rubber or an elastic film. For example, the cleaning blade 33 can be fixed to the photoconductor frame 112, with a support 333 between the cleaning blade and the photoconductor frame. The cleaning end 331 of the cleaning blade 33 can elastically contact the surface of the photoconductor drum 14.

[0071] The first waste toner receiving unit 31 is located on the first side (cleaning side) 33-1 opposite to the photosensitive drum 14, relative to the cleaning blade 33. The cleaning blade 33 forms the sidewall of the first waste toner receiving unit 31 near the photosensitive drum 14. An opening 311 is formed between the cleaning end 331 of the cleaning blade 33 and the upper end of the first waste toner receiving unit 31. Waste toner removed from the surface of the photosensitive drum 14 through the cleaning end 331 of the cleaning blade 33 falls from the cleaning blade 33 onto the first side 33-1 and is contained in the first waste toner receiving unit 31.

[0072] A portion of the waste toner removed from the surface of the photosensitive drum 14 by the cleaning end 331 of the cleaning blade 33 can fall from the cleaning blade 33 to the second side 33-2. The second side 33-2 is the side of the photosensitive drum 14 positioned relative to the cleaning blade 33 and opposite to the first side 33-1. For example, waste toner removed from the surface of the photosensitive drum 14 and accumulated at the cleaning end 331 of the cleaning blade 33, in the region adjacent to both ends of the cleaning blade 33 in the width direction Y, may fall from the cleaning blade 33 to the second side 33-2. A second waste toner receiving unit 32 is provided on the second side 33-2 of the cleaning blade 33. The second waste toner receiving unit 32 is located below the cleaning end 331 of the cleaning blade 33 and includes an upward-opening waste toner inlet 321. Waste toner falling from the cleaning blade 33 to the second side 33-2 falls through the waste toner inlet 321 into the second waste toner receiving unit 32 and is contained therein.

[0073] As described above, the cleaning device 30 forms the photosensitive unit 11 together with the photosensitive drum 14. The photosensitive unit 11 can be attached to / removed from the image forming apparatus 1. The photosensitive drum 14 is a consumable product that is replaced at the end of its lifespan. At the end of the lifespan of the photosensitive drum 14, the photosensitive unit 11 can be removed from the image forming apparatus 1, and a new photosensitive unit 11 can be installed on the image forming apparatus 1. Moreover, when a blockage occurs during printing, the photosensitive unit 11 can be temporarily removed from the image forming apparatus 1 to handle the blockage. For example, the photosensitive unit 11 can slide in the width direction Y and can be installed on / removed from the image forming apparatus 1. In this case, the waste toner container 3 can be removed from the image forming apparatus 1 first, and then the photosensitive unit 11 can be removed; or the photosensitive unit 11 can be installed on the image forming apparatus first, and then the waste toner container 3 can be removed. When the photosensitive unit 11 is installed on or removed from the image forming apparatus 1, the waste toner contained in the second waste toner containing unit 32 may leak to the outside through the waste toner inlet 321. The leaked waste toner may contaminate the interior of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0074] With this in mind, the cleaning device 30 according to the example of this disclosure includes a cover 34 for opening and closing the second waste toner inlet 321. The cover 34 can be in the closed position (see [link to documentation]). Figure 15 ) and opening location (see Figure 16The device can switch between (e.g., pivot) positions, with the closed position for closing the waste toner inlet 321 and the open position for opening the waste toner inlet 321. For example, the cover 34 may include a cover 341 covering the waste toner inlet 321 and a pivot shaft 342 extending in the width direction Y. A plurality of shaft supports 351 may be disposed on the photosensitive frame 112, on which the pivot shaft 342 is pivotally supported.

[0075] The cover 34 can be elastically biased by the elastic member 36 to be held in the closed position. For example, the elastic member 36 can be implemented as a compression coil spring. One end of the compression coil spring can be supported on the photosensitive frame 112. The other end of the compression coil spring can be supported on a support member 343, which is disposed on the cover 34 and opposite to the cover 341 relative to the pivot axis 342. The elastic member 36 is not limited to a compression coil spring, and can be implemented as any of various springs such as leaf springs, tension coil springs, or torsion coil springs.

[0076] The cleaning device 30 may include a sealing member 37, which seals the gap between the waste toner inlet 321 and the cover 341 of the cover 34 when the baffle 34 is in the closed position. The sealing member 37 may be disposed on the bottom surface of the cover 341, for example, the surface facing the waste toner inlet 321. The sealing member 37 may be formed of, for example, sponge or felt. The sealing member 37 may adhere to, for example, the bottom surface of the cover 341. The baffle 34 is held in the closed position by the elastic force of the elastic member 36. The sealing member 37 can be compressed by the elastic force of the elastic member 36, thereby improving the sealing effect.

[0077] During image formation, waste toner accumulates in the first waste toner receiving unit 31, and the waste toner inside the first waste toner receiving unit 31 is discharged from the first waste toner receiving unit 31 to the waste toner container 3. The first waste toner receiving unit 31 may include a waste toner outlet 313. For example, the first waste toner receiving unit 31 may include a discharge pipe 312 protruding from the side wall 113 of the photosensitive frame 112 in the width direction Y. The waste toner outlet 313 may be provided in the discharge pipe 312. Although not shown, a discharge shield for opening and closing the waste toner outlet 313 may be provided on the discharge pipe 312. When the waste toner container 3 is separated from the image forming apparatus 1, the discharge shield is in the position for closing the waste toner outlet 313. When the waste toner container 3 is installed on the image forming apparatus 1, due to the operation of inserting the discharge pipe 312 into the waste toner container 3, the discharge shield can be switched to the position for opening the waste toner outlet 313. The cleaning device 40 may include a conveying member 314 for conveying waste toner inside the first waste toner receiving unit 41 to the waste toner outlet 313. For example, the conveying member 314 may include a rotating shaft extending in the width direction Y and helical blades formed on the rotating shaft. Although not shown, the conveying member 314 can rotate when connected to the photosensitive drum 14 via gears or the like. Therefore, the conveying member 314 can rotate without employing a separate actuator (such as a motor).

[0078] The cover 34 can be switched between an open position and a closed position. When the photosensitive unit 11 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 1, the cover 34 is in the open position. With this configuration, waste toner removed from the photosensitive drum 14 and falling onto the second side 33-2 of the cleaning blade 33 during image forming can be contained in the second waste toner containing unit 32. Therefore, contamination of the interior of the image forming apparatus 1 due to waste toner and printed image contamination can be reduced or prevented. When the photosensitive unit 11 is removed from the image forming apparatus 1, the cover 34 is in the closed position. With this configuration, leakage of waste toner from the second waste toner containing unit 32 can be prevented when the photosensitive unit 11 is attached / removed.

[0079] Various switching structures can be used to switch the cover 34 between the closed and open positions. For example, the cover 34 can be opened and closed in conjunction with the attachment / removal operation of the waste toner container 3. Figure 17 This is a partial perspective view illustrating an example of a structure in which the cover 34 is opened and closed during the attachment / removal operation of the waste toner container 3. Figure 17 The illustration shows the waste toner container 3 and the shield 34; other components are not shown. (Reference) Figure 17An interference member 3-2 is disposed on the waste toner container 3. For example, the interference member 3-2 may protrude from the waste toner container 3 toward the shield 34 in the width direction Y (e.g., the +Y direction). The interference member 3-2 includes an interference portion 3-2a. The interference portion 3-2a may have a surface that slopes downward in the width direction Y (e.g., the +Y direction). A switch protrusion 346 is disposed on the shield 34. For example, the switch protrusion 346 may protrude from one end of the shield 34 toward the interference portion 3-2a in the width direction Y (e.g., the -Y direction).

[0080] Before the waste toner container 3 is installed on the image forming apparatus 1, the baffle 34 is held in the closed position by the elastic force of the elastic member 36 to close the waste toner inlet 321 of the second waste toner receiving unit 32, as shown below. Figure 15 As shown. When the waste toner container 3 moves in the +Y direction to be mounted on the image forming apparatus 1, the interference portion 3-2a approaches the switch protrusion 346. As the waste toner container 3 moves continuously in the +Y direction while the interference portion 3-2a contacts the switch protrusion 346, the interference portion 3-2a pushes the switch protrusion 346 in the opposite direction to the elastic force of the elastic member 36. The cover 34 rotates from the closed position to the open position. When the installation of the waste toner container 3 is complete, as... Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the shield 34 is in the open position. The interference between the switch protrusion 346 and the interference portion 3-2a is maintained, and the shield 34 is held in the open position. Figure 16 In the current state, when the waste toner container 3 moves in the -Y direction to be removed, the interference portion 3-2a moves to space itself from the switch protrusion 346. The shield 34 rotates from the open position to the closed position due to the elastic force of the elastic member 36. When the interference between the interference portion 3-2a and the switch protrusion 346 is removed, the shield 34 is in the closed position and is maintained in the closed position due to the elastic force of the elastic member 36.

[0081] Although not shown, the mask 34 can be switched from a closed position to an open position in conjunction with the operation of the photosensitive drum 14, for example, when mounted on the image forming apparatus 1 in the +Y direction. In this case, the switch protrusion 346 can be disposed at one end of the mask 34 in the +Y direction, and the interference member 3-2, including the interference portion 3-2a, can face the switch protrusion 346 in the width direction Y. In this case, the interference portion 3-2a can have a surface that is inclined downward in the -Y direction.

[0082] Although not shown, the mask 34 can be switched from an open position to a closed position in conjunction with the operation of the photosensitive drum 14, for example, when mounted on the image forming apparatus 1 in the -X direction. In this case, the switch protrusion 346 can be disposed at one end of the mask 34 in the +Y direction, and the interference member 3-2, including the interference portion 3-2a, can face the switch protrusion 346 in the travel direction X. In this case, the interference portion 3-2a can have a surface that is inclined downward in the +X direction.

[0083] The interference element can be disposed on the photosensitive unit 11. When the waste toner container 3 is installed on the image forming apparatus 1, the interference element can be pushed by the waste toner container 3 to interfere with the switch protrusion 346 and switch the mask 34 to the open position. Figure 18 This is a partial perspective view illustrating an example of a structure in which the cover 34 is opened and closed during the attachment / removal operation of the waste toner container 3. Figure 18 The diagram shows the waste toner container 3, the interference member 3-3, and the baffle 34; other components are not shown. (Reference) Figure 18 For example, the interference member 3-3 may have a rod shape extending in the attachment / removal direction (e.g., the width direction Y) of the waste toner container 3. The interference member 3-3 may include an interference protrusion 3-3a and an interference portion 3-3b, the interference protrusion interfering with the waste toner container 3 when it is mounted, and the interference portion positioned opposite to the interference protrusion 3-3a and protruding toward the shield 34. The interference portion 3-3b may have a surface inclined downwards in the width direction Y (e.g., the +Y direction). The interference member 3-3 may be supported on the photosensitive frame 112 to be movable in the width direction Y. The interference protrusion 3-3a protrudes from the sidewall 113 through a through-hole 114 formed in the sidewall 113 of the photosensitive frame 112. A switch protrusion 346 is provided on the shield 34. For example, the switch protrusion 346 may protrude from one end of the shield 34 in the width direction Y (e.g., the -Y direction) toward the interference portion 3-3b in the width direction Y (e.g., the -Y direction). The interference member 3-3 can be elastically biased by a spring (not shown) to be spaced apart from the switch protrusion 346 of the cover 34.

[0084] Before the waste toner container 3 is installed on the image forming apparatus 1, the baffle 34 is held in the closed position by the elastic force of the elastic member 36 to close the waste toner inlet 321 of the second waste toner receiving unit 32, as shown below. Figure 15As shown. The interference member 3-3 is held in a position spaced apart from the switch protrusion 346 of the mask 34 by the elastic force of the spring. When the waste toner container 3 moves in the +Y direction to be mounted on the image forming apparatus 1, the waste toner container 3 contacts the interference protrusion 3-3a and pushes the interference member 3-3 in the width direction Y (e.g., the +Y direction). The interference portion 3-3b approaches the switch protrusion 346. When the waste toner container 3 moves continuously in the +Y direction while the interference portion 3-3b contacts the switch protrusion 346, the interference portion 3-3b pushes the switch protrusion 346 in the opposite direction to the elastic force of the elastic member 36. The mask 34 rotates from the closed position to the open position. When the installation of the waste toner container 3 is completed, as shown... Figure 16 As shown, the cover 34 is in the open position. The interference between the switch protrusion 346 and the interference portion 3-3b is maintained, and the cover 34 is held in the open position. Figure 16 In the current state, when the waste toner container 3 moves in the -Y direction to be removed, the interference member 3-3 moves in the direction spaced apart from the switch protrusion 346 due to the elastic force of the spring. The cover 34 rotates from the open position to the closed position due to the elastic force of the elastic member 36. When the interference between the interference portion 3-3b and the switch protrusion 346 is removed, the cover 34 is in the closed position and is maintained in the closed position due to the elastic force of the elastic member 36. The interference member 3-3 is maintained in the position spaced apart from the switch protrusion 346 of the cover 34 due to the elastic force of the spring.

[0085] It should be understood that the examples described herein are to be considered in a descriptive sense and not for limiting purposes. The description of a feature or aspect within each example should be regarded as applicable to other similar features or aspects in other examples. Although one or more examples have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the spirit and scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An intermediate transfer belt assembly comprising: an intermediate transfer belt; a cleaning blade for removing waste toner from a surface of the intermediate transfer belt; a first waste toner containing unit for containing waste toner falling from the cleaning blade to a first side opposite to the intermediate transfer belt; a second waste toner containing unit for containing waste toner falling from the cleaning blade to a second side opposite to the first side; and a shutter switchable between an open position for opening a waste toner inlet of the second waste toner containing unit and a closed position for closing the waste toner inlet.

2. The intermediate transfer belt assembly of claim 1, comprising an elastic member for elastically biasing the shutter to the closed position.

3. The intermediate transfer belt assembly of claim 1, comprising: a waste toner outlet for discharging waste toner inside the first waste toner containing unit; and a cleaner cover switchable between a discharge position for opening the waste toner outlet and a blocking position for blocking the waste toner outlet, wherein the shutter is for opening and closing the waste toner inlet in conjunction with opening / closing operation of the cleaner cover.

4. The intermediate transfer belt assembly of claim 1, comprising a sealing member for sealing a gap between the shutter and the waste toner inlet.

5. An image forming apparatus comprising: a photoconductor having a surface on which a toner image is formed; an intermediate transfer belt to which the toner image is transferred; and a cleaning device comprising: a cleaning blade for removing waste toner from a surface of the intermediate transfer belt, a first waste toner containing unit for containing waste toner falling from the cleaning blade to a first side opposite to the intermediate transfer belt, a second waste toner containing unit for containing waste toner falling from the cleaning blade to a second side opposite to the first side, and a shutter switchable between an open position for opening a waste toner inlet of the second waste toner containing unit and a closed position for closing the waste toner inlet.

6. The image forming apparatus of claim 5, comprising an elastic member for elastically biasing the shutter to the closed position.

7. The image forming apparatus of claim 5, comprising a sealing member for sealing a gap between the shutter and the waste toner inlet.

8. The image forming apparatus of claim 5, wherein, ​ ​ ​ The intermediate transfer belt and the cleaning device form an intermediate transfer belt assembly, the intermediate transfer belt assembly being attachable to or detachable from the image forming apparatus, and The shutter is configured to switch between the open position and the closed position in conjunction with an attaching / detaching operation of the intermediate transfer belt assembly. 9.The image forming apparatus of claim 8, wherein The cleaning device includes a waste toner outlet for discharging waste toner inside the first waste toner containing unit and a cleaner cover switchable between a blocking position for blocking the waste toner outlet and a discharging position for opening the waste toner outlet, The cleaner cover is configured to switch from the blocking position to the discharging position with the intermediate transfer belt assembly mounted on the image forming apparatus, and The shutter is configured to switch to the open position by interfering with the cleaner cover switched to the discharging position. 10.The image forming apparatus of claim 9, comprising: a waste toner container; a delivery pipe for connecting the waste toner outlet to the waste toner container; and a first interference portion provided on the delivery pipe for switching the cleaner cover to the discharging position by interfering with the cleaner cover with the intermediate transfer belt assembly mounted on the image forming apparatus. 11.The image forming apparatus of claim 8, comprising an interference member for switching the shutter to the open position to open the waste toner inlet by interfering with the shutter with the intermediate transfer belt assembly mounted on the image forming apparatus. 12.The image forming apparatus of claim 11, comprising: a waste toner container; and a delivery pipe for connecting a waste toner outlet of the first waste toner containing unit to the waste toner container, wherein the interference member is provided on the delivery pipe. 13.The image forming apparatus of claim 5, comprising a waste toner container for containing waste toner discharged from the first waste toner containing unit, the waste toner container being attachable to or detachable from the image forming apparatus, The shutter is configured to switch between the open position and the closed position in conjunction with an attaching / detaching operation of the waste toner container. 14.A cartridge, comprising: wherein a photoconductor; a cleaning blade for removing waste toner from a surface of the photoconductor; a first waste toner containing unit for containing waste toner falling to a first side of the cleaning blade opposite to the photoconductor; a second waste toner containing unit for containing waste toner falling to a second side opposite to the first side of the cleaning blade; and a shutter switchable between an open position for opening the waste toner inlet and a closed position for blocking the waste toner inlet. ​ ​ A shutter for opening and closing a waste toner inlet of the second waste toner accommodating unit.

15. The cartridge of claim 14, comprising a resilient member for resiliently biasing the shutter to a position for closing the waste toner inlet.

Images