frame body, sheet accommodating apparatus, sheet conveying apparatus, sheet processing apparatus, and image forming apparatus

Abstract

Disclosed is a frame body including a first member, a second member, and a connecting member including a first portion provided to be connected to the first member and a second portion provided to be connected to the second member, wherein the first member includes a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion provided to be connected to the first portion of the connecting member, respectively, wherein the second member includes a third connecting portion and a fourth connecting portion provided to be connected to the second portion of the connecting member, respectively, wherein any member of the frame body is not connected to at least the second connecting portion, and any member of the frame body is not connected to at least the fourth connecting portion. Also disclosed is a sheet accommodating apparatus, a sheet conveying apparatus, a sheet processing apparatus, and an image forming apparatus.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a frame body, a sheet receiving device having a frame body, a sheet conveying device having a frame body, a sheet processing device having a frame body, and an imaging device having a frame body. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, a frame body is used for sheet receiving equipment, sheet conveying equipment, sheet handling equipment (e.g., trimmers), and imaging equipment (e.g., printers), in which support columns and brackets are connected by welding.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-044958 discloses an imaging device having a frame body that supports the imaging portion.

[0004] However, in the aforementioned related technologies, a frame body is manufactured for each model, with supports welded to positions corresponding to units such as the imaging section. Therefore, when setting up units of different sizes, frame bodies for the corresponding sizes must be prepared. In a specific example, when using a platform with a larger capacity instead of a box with a predetermined capacity, another frame must be prepared, with supports welded to positions corresponding to the platform. That is, a frame body must be prepared for each model. Since it is difficult to reuse such frame bodies, this places a greater burden on the environment. Summary of the Invention

[0005] One aspect of this disclosure is a framework ontology that includes:

[0006] First component;

[0007] The second component; and

[0008] A connecting member includes: a first portion configured to connect to a first member; and a second portion configured to connect to a second member.

[0009] The first component includes a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion, which are respectively configured to connect to the first portion of the connecting component.

[0010] The second component includes a third connecting portion and a fourth connecting portion, which are respectively configured to connect with the second portion of the connecting component.

[0011] Wherein, no component of the frame body is connected to at least the second connecting portion, and

[0012] In this configuration, no component of the frame body is connected to at least the fourth connection portion.

[0013] The features of this disclosure will become clear from the following description of embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following description of the embodiments is illustrative by way of example. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing a cross-sectional view of an imaging device having a first structural form.

[0015] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing a cross-sectional view of an imaging device having a second configuration.

[0016] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing a cross-sectional view of an imaging device with a third structural form.

[0017] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the frame body of the imaging device according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing the frame body of the imaging device according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 6 This is an exploded perspective view of the frame body of the imaging device according to the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 7 This is an exploded perspective view of the lower front frame according to the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the support bracket according to the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 9A and Figure 9B This is a perspective view illustrating an assembly method for a support bracket according to a first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 10A and Figure 10B This is a perspective view illustrating an assembly method for a support bracket according to a first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 11 This is a perspective view illustrating an assembly method for a support bracket according to a first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 12 This is a perspective view showing the lower front frame and sheet box guide portion of an imaging device having a second construction form.

[0026] Figure 13 This is a perspective view showing the lower front frame and sheet box guide portion of an imaging device having a third construction form.

[0027] Figure 14 It is a perspective view showing the lower front frame and sheet box guide portion of an imaging device having a first construction form.

[0028] Figure 15A This is a perspective view of the support plate according to the first embodiment, and Figure 15B This is a perspective view of the support plate according to the second embodiment.

[0029] Figure 16 This is a perspective view showing the support bracket according to the second embodiment.

[0030] Figure 17A and Figure 17B This is a perspective view illustrating an assembly method for the support bracket according to the second embodiment.

[0031] Figure 18A , Figure 18B and Figure 18C This is a partial perspective view showing the support bracket and support plate according to the second embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Embodiments of this disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative arrangements of the components described below are not limited to those in the embodiments described below.

[0033] <First Embodiment>

[0034] The following text will refer to Figures 1 to 3 This disclosure describes an imaging device having a frame body.

[0035] (The first structural form of the imaging device)

[0036] Reference Figure 1 The first construction form of the imaging device having a frame body according to this disclosure and its imaging operation are described.

[0037] Figure 1 The imaging device A shown is an imaging device with an intermediate tandem system in which toner images of four colors—yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K)—are transferred onto an intermediate transfer belt. The transferred toner images are then further transferred onto a sheet to form an image. In the following description, the suffixes Y, M, C, and K are attached to components using the corresponding color toner. However, when the construction and operation of the components are identical except for the toner color, the suffixes are omitted, except when color differentiation is required.

[0038] like Figure 1 As shown, the imaging device A is provided with an imaging unit 10 for forming an image on a sheet S and a sheet feeding unit 20 for feeding the sheet S toward the imaging unit 10.

[0039] The imaging unit 10 includes a photosensitive drum 1 (1Y, 1M, 1C and 1K) as a photosensitive element, a charging roller 2 (2Y, 2M, 2C and 2K) as a processing device acting on the photosensitive drum 1, and a developing device 4 (4Y, 4M, 4C and 4K).

[0040] The imaging unit 10 also includes a primary transfer roller 5 (5Y, 5M, 5C and 5K), a laser scanner unit 3, an intermediate transfer belt 6, a secondary transfer roller 7 and a secondary transfer opposing roller 8.

[0041] The sheet feeding unit 20 includes: sheet boxes 11a to 11c, in which the sheet S is housed; and pick-up rollers 12a to 12c, which pick up the sheet S housed in the sheet boxes 11a to 11c. The sheet boxes 11a to 11c are capable of accommodating sheets with larger dimensions.

[0042] The system includes: sheet feed opposing rollers 13a to 13c that feed the sheet S picked up by pick-up rollers 12a to 12c into the conveying path; a pair of conveying rollers 14a to 14d that convey the sheet S in the conveying path; and an alignment roller pair 15.

[0043] As part of the process of forming an image through imaging device A, an imaging operation signal is input to the control section (not shown).

[0044] When an input signal is received, the sheet S contained in any of the sheet boxes 11a to 11c is picked up by the pick-up rollers 12a to 12c.

[0045] Sheet S is fed to alignment roller pair 15 via sheet feed roller pairs 13a to 13c and transfer roller pairs 14a to 14d.

[0046] After the skewed feed of 15 pairs of sheets S is corrected by the alignment roller, the sheets S are sent to the secondary transfer section formed by the secondary transfer roller 7 and the secondary transfer opposing roller 8.

[0047] In the imaging unit 10, the surface of the photosensitive drum 1Y is charged by the charging roller 2Y.

[0048] Then, the laser scanner unit 3 irradiates the surface of the photosensitive drum 1Y with a laser beam corresponding to the image data transmitted from an external device (not shown) so as to form an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 1Y.

[0049] Yellow toner is attached to the electrostatic latent image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 1Y by the developing device 4Y, so as to form a yellow toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 1Y.

[0050] By applying a transfer bias to the primary transfer roller 5Y, the toner image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 1Y is transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 6 in one step.

[0051] Through similar processing, magenta, cyan, and black toner images were formed on the photosensitive drums 1M, 1C, and 1K, respectively.

[0052] By applying a primary transfer bias to the primary transfer rollers 5M, 5C, and 5K, the magenta, cyan, and black toner images are transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 6 in one pass, thereby superimposing these images onto the yellow toner image.

[0053] As a result, a full-color toner image corresponding to the image signal is formed on the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 6.

[0054] The toner remaining on the photosensitive drums 1Y, 1M, 1C and 1K is removed by a cleaning component (not shown) and collected in the toner collection container 18.

[0055] The full-color toner image is sent to the secondary transfer section via the surrounding intermediate transfer belt 6.

[0056] In the secondary transfer section, a secondary transfer bias is applied to the secondary transfer roller 7, thereby causing the full-color toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 6 to be transferred onto the sheet S.

[0057] The sheet S, on which the toner image has been transferred, is conveyed by the transfer roller pair 14e to the fixing device 9, where heat and pressure are applied to the sheet S to fix the toner image onto the sheet S.

[0058] The sheet S, which has been fixed with toner image, is discharged from discharge roller pair 17 to discharge tray 19.

[0059] When images are formed on both sides of the sheet S, the image already formed on the first side and the sheet S has been transferred to the reversal transfer section 21 by the fixing device 9.

[0060] The front and back sides, as well as the front and rear edges, are reversed by the reverse transmission section 21.

[0061] The sheet S is conveyed to the alignment roller pair 15 via the double-sided conveying section 22, and is further sent to the secondary transfer section formed by the secondary transfer roller 7 and the secondary transfer opposing roller 8, in which the toner image is formed by the above-mentioned imaging process.

[0062] (Second construction form of imaging equipment)

[0063] Reference Figure 2 A second configuration of an imaging device having a frame body according to this disclosure is described. Imaging unit 10 is in... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The devices in the figures are common to each other, are given the same reference numerals, and the corresponding descriptions are omitted.

[0064] The sheet feeding unit 20 includes sheet boxes 11a to 11d for accommodating sheets S and pick-up rollers 12a to 12d for picking up the sheets S contained in the sheet boxes 11a to 11d. Sheet boxes 11b and 11c are capable of accommodating larger sheets, while sheet boxes 11a and 11d are capable of accommodating smaller sheets. Specifically, sheet boxes 11a and 11d are configured such that the length of the sheet accommodating portion in the sheet conveying direction is shorter than the length of sheet boxes 11b and 11c in the sheet conveying direction.

[0065] The sheet S contained in sheet boxes 11a to 11c is picked up by pick-up rollers 12a to 12c and conveyed to alignment roller pair 15 by sheet feed roller pair 13a to 13c and conveyor roller pair 14a to 14d.

[0066] The sheet S contained in the sheet box 11d is picked up by the pick-up roller 12d, merged into the double-sided conveying section 22 by the sheet feed roller pair 13d, and then conveyed by the double-sided conveying section 22 to the alignment roller pair 15.

[0067] (The third structural form of imaging equipment)

[0068] Reference Figure 3 A third configuration of an imaging apparatus having a frame body according to this disclosure is described. Imaging unit 10 is in... Figure 1 and Figure 3 The devices in the figures are common to each other, are given the same reference numerals, and the corresponding descriptions are omitted.

[0069] The sheet feeding unit 20 is provided with sheet boxes 11c, 11e and 11f for holding sheet S and pick-up rollers 12c, 12a and 12d for picking up sheet S held in sheet boxes 11c, 11e and 11f.

[0070] Sheet boxes 11e and 11f can hold a large number of smaller sheets. Sheet box 11c can hold larger sheets.

[0071] The sheet S contained in sheet boxes 11e and 11c is picked up by pick-up rollers 12a and 12c and conveyed to alignment roller pair 15 by sheet feed roller pair 13a and 13c and conveyor roller pair 14a to 14d.

[0072] The sheet S contained in the sheet box 11f is picked up by the pick-up roller 12d, merged into the double-sided conveying section 22 by the sheet feed roller pair 13d, and then conveyed by the double-sided conveying section 22 to the alignment roller pair 15.

[0073] (The frame of the imaging device)

[0074] Reference Figures 4 to 6 The structure of the frame body 100 of the imaging device A according to this disclosure is described. Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the frame body 100 of the imaging device A as viewed from the upper right front side. Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the frame body 100 of the imaging device A as viewed from the rear. Figure 6 This is an exploded perspective view of the frame body 100 of the imaging device A as viewed from the upper right front side.

[0075] like Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the frame body 100 of the imaging device A is configured to have an upper frame 50 and a lower frame 70 connected to each other.

[0076] The upper frame 50 and the lower frame 70 are formed of metal steel plates. The upper frame 50 is arranged vertically on the upper part of the lower frame 70.

[0077] The lower frame 70, as the frame body 100, is standard equipment of the imaging device A, unlike the cassette base unit which is optionally attached to expand functionality (e.g., increase the number of sheets S to be accommodated).

[0078] Figures 1 to 3 The dotted line V shown represents the boundary between the upper frame 50 and the lower frame 70.

[0079] The upper frame 50 consists of an upper front frame 51, an upper rear side plate 52, and brackets 58, 59, 60, and 61 that connect the upper front frame 51 and the upper rear side plate 52.

[0080] The upper front frame 51 consists of a right upper support column 511, a left upper support column 512, and brackets 513 and 514 connecting the right upper support column 511 and the left upper support column 512.

[0081] Brackets 513 and 514 are welded to the upper right support column 511 and the upper left support column 512.

[0082] Bracket 58 is welded to the upper right support column 511 and the upper rear side plate 52. Bracket 59 is welded to the upper left support column 512 and the upper rear side plate 52. Brackets 60 and 61 are welded to bracket 513 and the upper rear side plate 52.

[0083] The lower frame 70 consists of a lower front frame 71, a lower rear side plate 72, a bottom plate 73, and reinforcing plates 74 and 75.

[0084] The lower front frame 71 and the lower rear side plate 72 are fixed to the bottom plate 73 by welding.

[0085] The reinforcing plates 74 and 75 are fixed to the lower front frame 71, the lower rear side plate 72 and the bottom plate 73 by welding.

[0086] The upper front frame 51 of the upper frame 50 is positioned and arranged on the upper portion of the lower front frame 71 of the lower frame 70, and is fixed with screws (not shown). Similarly, the upper rear side panel 52 is positioned and arranged on the upper portion of the lower rear side panel 72, and is fixed with screws (not shown).

[0087] like Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the left-right direction of the imaging device A (frame body 100) is represented by X, the front-back direction by Y, and the up-down direction by Z.

[0088] (Construction of the lower front frame)

[0089] Reference Figure 7 The exploded perspective view describes the construction of the lower front frame 71.

[0090] The lower front frame 71 is composed of a right support column 71R as a first component, a left support column 71L as a second component, a bracket 715, and a support plate 716. The right support column 71R and the left support column 71L extend in the vertical direction.

[0091] The right support column 71R is composed of a right outer support column 711 and a right inner support column 712. The right outer support column 711 is formed by a side surface portion 711a and curved portions 711b and 711c that rise from the side surface portion 711a. The right inner support column 712 is formed by a side surface portion 712a and curved portions 712b and 712c that rise from the side surface portion 712a.

[0092] The left support column 71L is composed of a left outer support column 713 and a left inner support column 714. The left outer support column 713 is formed by a side surface portion 713a and curved portions 713b and 713c that rise from the side surface portion 713a. The left inner support column 714 is formed by a side surface portion 714a and curved portions 714b and 714c that rise from the side surface portion 714a.

[0093] During assembly, bracket 715 is first positioned and connected to the right inner support column 712 and the left inner support column 714 by tightening screws.

[0094] The right inner support column 712 mates with the right outer support column 711, such that the side surface portion 712a is opposite to the side surface portion 711a with a gap. Then, the right inner support column 712 is connected to the right outer support column 711 by connecting the bent portions 711b and 711c to the bent portions 712b and 712c respectively with screws.

[0095] The left inner support column 714 mates with the left outer support column 713, such that the side surface portion 714a is opposite to the side surface portion 713a with a gap. Then, the left inner support column 714 is connected to the left outer support column 713 by connecting the bent portions 713b and 713c to the bent portions 714b and 714c respectively with screws.

[0096] The bent portion 711b of the right outer support column 711 extends from the side surface portion 712a of the right inner support column 712 into the interior of the equipment. A hole 711d and a threaded hole 711e are formed in the bent portion 711b for positioning components to be assembled later.

[0097] The bent portion 713b of the left outer support column 713 extends from the side surface portion 714a of the left inner support column 714 into the interior of the equipment. A hole 713d and a threaded hole 713e are formed in the bent portion 713b for positioning components to be assembled later.

[0098] (Assembly method of support bracket)

[0099] like Figure 8 As shown, the support bracket 76, which serves as a connecting member, has a bracket base 761 and a bracket reinforcing plate 762 that is connected to the bracket base 761 by welding.

[0100] The support bracket 76 has a first portion that connects to the right inner support column 712 and a second portion that connects to the left inner support column 714. The support bracket 76 has a protrusion 761a and a threaded hole 762a as the first portion connecting to the right inner support column 712. The support bracket 76 has an abutment portion 761c and a hole 761b as the second portion connecting to the left inner support column 714.

[0101] A protrusion 761a is formed at the right end of the bracket base 761 to position the support bracket 76 on the right inner support post 712. A threaded hole 762a is formed at the right end of the bracket reinforcing plate 762 to secure the support bracket 76 to the right inner support post 712 by means of a screw, which serves as a fastening member. The screw can be screwed into the threaded hole 762a in the X direction (left-right direction).

[0102] The abutment portion 761c is the left end portion of the support base 761 and abuts against the support plate 716 of the left inner support column 714 in the vertical direction. A hole 761b is formed at the left end portion of the support base 761 to penetrate the support base 761 in the Z direction (vertical direction). That is, the hole 761b is formed on the abutment portion 761c, which abuts against the support plate 716 of the left inner support column 714.

[0103] The first connecting portion and the second connecting portion, which are respectively connected to the first part of the support bracket 76, are disposed at two positions on the side surface portion 712a of the right inner support column 712 along the Z direction in the up-down direction (vertical direction).

[0104] The first connecting portion has: a positioning hole 712d, into which the protruding portion 761a of the first portion is inserted in the X direction perpendicular to the vertical direction; and a hole 712e into which a screw (as a fastening member) to be screwed into the threaded hole 762a of the first portion is inserted. The second connecting portion has a positioning hole 712d and a hole 712e similar to those of the first connecting portion, but the second connecting portion is formed in a different position in the vertical direction than the first connecting portion.

[0105] The support bracket 76 is positioned relative to the side surface portion 712a of the right inner support column 712 by fitting the protrusion 761a into the positioning hole 712d, and the support bracket 76 is fixed by screws. On the other hand, when the right support column 71R and the left support column 71L are fitted onto the frame body 100, the support bracket 76 can be removed from the right inner support column 712 by removing the screws and pulling the protrusion 761a out of the positioning hole 712d in the left direction along the X direction in the figure. That is, when the support bracket 76 moves in a direction intersecting the vertical direction (in the left direction along the X direction in the figure), the connection between the protrusion 761a of the support bracket 76 and the positioning hole 712d (as the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion) is released.

[0106] Two support plates 716, serving as the third and fourth connecting parts, are positioned at two locations on the side surface portion 714a of the left inner support column 714 in the Z direction (vertical direction), and these two support plates 716 are configured to connect with the second part of the support bracket 76. Figure 15A This is a perspective view showing the support plate 716.

[0107] On the side surface portion 714a of the left inner support column 714, positioning holes 714d for selectively connecting with the two support plates 716 and holes 714e for fixing the support plates 716 by screws as fastening members are provided in two positions along the Z direction in the up-down direction (vertical direction).

[0108] On the two support plates 716, which serve as the third and fourth connecting parts, there are protrusions 716e for positioning the support plates 716 relative to the left inner support column 714, and holes 716f, into which screws, which are fastening members, are inserted to be screwed into the holes 714e of the left inner support column 714.

[0109] The support plate 716 is positioned relative to the side surface portion 714a of the left inner support column 714 by fitting the protrusion 716e into the positioning hole 714d, and the support plate 716 is secured with screws. Alternatively, when the left inner support column 714 is mounted on the frame body 100, the support plate 716 can be removed from the left inner support column 714 by removing the screws and pulling the protrusion 716e out of the positioning hole 714d along the X direction. That is, the support plate 716 is configured to connect with the left inner support column 714, and the connection between the support plate 716 and the left inner support column 714 is released when the support plate 716 moves relative to it in a direction intersecting the vertical direction (the X direction in the example in the figure).

[0110] Furthermore, the support plate 716, which serves as the third connecting portion, is provided with an arrangement surface 716a (as a support portion) that vertically supports the abutment portion 761c of the support bracket 76 from below, and a threaded hole 716b for fixing the support bracket 76 to the support plate 716 by screws as fastening members. The arrangement surface 716a is the support portion, and the lower surface of the support bracket 76 abuts against this arrangement surface 716a. The support plate 716, which serves as the fourth connecting portion, has the same arrangement surface 716a and threaded hole 716b as the third connecting portion, and is positioned vertically at a different location than that of the third connecting portion.

[0111] By moving the abutment portion 761c downwards and placing it on the arrangement surface 716a, the support bracket 76 is connected to and secured by screws to the support plate 716 fixed to the left inner support column 714. Conversely, when the right support column 71R and left support column 71L are assembled onto the frame body 100, the support bracket 76 can be removed from the support plate 716 by removing the screws and separating the abutment portion 761c from the arrangement surface 716a by moving it upwards. That is, the support plate 716 is configured such that the connection between the support plate 716 and the support bracket 76 is released by moving the support bracket 76 relative to the support plate in the vertical direction.

[0112] The following will refer to Figure 9A and Figure 9BThe method of assembling the support bracket 76 to a first position of the lower front frame 71 is described. The position of the upper support plate 716 and the positioning hole 712d of the lower front frame 71 is defined as the first position, and the position of the support plate 716 and the positioning hole 712d at the lower side of the first position is defined as the second position. A detailed description will follow.

[0113] like Figure 9A As shown, the support bracket 76 is in an inclined position to avoid interference with the bent portions 711b of the right outer support column 711 and the left outer support column 713b extending into the equipment. Then, the inclined support bracket 76 is inserted into the inner side of the lower front frame 71, as shown. Figure 9A As shown.

[0114] After the support bracket 76 has been inserted into the inner side of the lower front frame 71, the abutment portion 761c on the left side of the support bracket 76 is moved vertically so that it is positioned on the arrangement surface 716a of the support plate 716, thereby making the support bracket 76 as follows: Figure 9B The basic horizontal state is shown.

[0115] Reference Figure 10A and Figure 10B This describes the process for positioning and securing the support bracket 76 to the right inner support column 712. Figure 10B In the middle, the right outer support column 711 is not shown.

[0116] The support bracket 76, which is in a basically horizontal state, is moved in a direction intersecting the vertical direction (the X direction in the example in the figure) so that the protrusion 761a of the support bracket 76 is fitted into the positioning hole 712d of the right inner support column 712. As a result, the support bracket 76 is positioned relative to the right inner support column 712 in the Y and Z directions.

[0117] The screw is inserted through the upper hole 711f on the right outer support column 711 and the upper hole 712e on the right inner support column 712, so as to be screwed into the threaded hole 762a on the right side of the support bracket 76. As a result, the support bracket 76 is positioned relative to the right inner support column 712 in the X direction for fixation thereto.

[0118] Reference Figure 11 The process for securing the support bracket 76 to the support plate 716 of the left inner support column 714 is described.

[0119] After the abutting portion 761c of the support bracket 76 has been positioned on the arrangement surface 716a of the support plate 716, a screw is inserted through the hole 761b provided in the support bracket 76 so as to be screwed into the threaded hole 716b of the support plate 716. As a result, the support bracket 76 is positioned relative to the support plate 716 in the Z direction and fixed thereto.

[0120] In order for the support bracket 76 to be assembled in a second position lower than the first position of the right support column 71R and the left support column 71L, the components of the frame body are arranged as follows: Figure 10A , Figure 10B and Figure 11 As shown.

[0121] like Figure 10A As shown, a hole 711f for inserting a screw is also provided at a second position on the side surface portion 711a of the right outer support column 711 (similar to the hole 711f for inserting a screw at the first position). Furthermore, as... Figure 10B As shown, on the side surface portion 712a of the right inner support column 712, similar to the positioning hole 712d in the first position, a positioning hole 712d for positioning and fixing the support bracket 76 and a hole 712e for inserting screws are also provided in the second position.

[0122] like Figure 11 As shown, on the side surface portion 714a of the left inner support column 714, similar to the support plate 716 in the first position, a support plate 716 is also provided in the second position.

[0123] With this configuration, when the support bracket 76 is assembled in the first position of the lower front frame 71, the protruding portion 761a of the support bracket 76 connects to the upper positioning hole 712d. On the other hand, components of the frame body (such as components having the same structure as the support bracket 76) do not connect to the lower positioning hole 712d. Furthermore, the abutting portion 761c of the support bracket 76 connects to the upper support plate 716. On the other hand, components of the frame body (such as components having the same structure as the support bracket 76) do not connect to the lower support plate 716.

[0124] Conversely, when the support bracket 76 is assembled in a second position lower than the first position on the lower front frame 71, the situation is reversed. That is, the protruding portion 761a of the support bracket 76 connects to the lower positioning hole 712d, while the components of the frame body (such as components having the same structure as the support bracket 76) do not connect to the upper positioning hole 712d. Moreover, the abutting portion 761c of the support bracket 76 connects to the lower support plate 716, while the components of the frame body (such as components having the same structure as the support bracket 76) do not connect to the upper support plate 716.

[0125] (The structural form of the imaging equipment and the position of the support bracket and guide rail)

[0126] Figure 12The planar guides 77a to 77g of the sheet box are shown attached to the lower frame 70, which has a support bracket 76 attached to a first position of the lower front frame 71. Figure 12 The lower frame 70 shown is for support. Figure 2 The frame members of the sheet boxes 11a to 11d (sheet receiving portions) of the unit in the second construction form of the imaging device A shown.

[0127] That is, in the frame body 100 including the right support column 71R, the left support column 71L, and the support bracket 76, the protruding portion 761a of the support bracket 76 is connected to the upper positioning hole 712d, and the components of the frame body (such as components having the same structure as the support bracket 76) are not connected to the lower positioning hole 712d. Furthermore, the abutting portion 761c of the support bracket 76 is connected to the upper support plate 716, and the components of the frame body (such as components having the same structure as the support bracket 76) are not connected to the lower support plate 716.

[0128] Moreover, in Figure 2 In the second configuration of the imaging device A shown, sheet boxes 11c and 11b, which are units, have the same common length in the sheet transport direction (left-right direction). Sheet boxes 11a and 11d, which are units, have the same common length in the sheet transport direction. The lengths of sheet boxes 11a and 11d are less than the lengths of sheet boxes 11c and 11b.

[0129] Guide rails 77a, 77b and 77c are positioned on the right outer support column 711 and the lower rear side plate 72, and are fixed to them.

[0130] Guide rails 77d, 77e and 77f are positioned on the left outer support column 713 and the lower rear side plate 72, and are fixed to them.

[0131] The guide rail 77g is positioned on the support bracket 76 and the lower rear side plate 72, and is fixed between the right support column 71R and the left support column 71L on the support bracket 76 and the lower rear side plate 72.

[0132] exist Figure 2 In the second configuration of the imaging device A shown, guide rails 77a and 77d support the sheet box 11c and guide the insertion and removal of the box.

[0133] Guide rails 77b and 77e support the sheet box 11b and guide the insertion and removal of the box.

[0134] Guide rails 77c and 77g support the sheet box 11a and guide the insertion and removal of the box.

[0135] Guide rails 77f and 77g support the sheet box 11d and guide the insertion and removal of the box.

[0136] Figure 13 The planar guides 77a, 77b, 77d, 77e and 77g of the sheet box are shown attached to the lower frame 70, which has a support bracket 76 attached to a second position of the lower front frame 71. Figure 13 The lower frame 70 shown is for support. Figure 3 The frame members of the sheet boxes 11c, 11e and 11f (sheet receiving parts) of the unit in the third construction form of the imaging device A shown.

[0137] That is, in the frame body 100 including the right support column 71R, the left support column 71L, and the support bracket 76, the protruding portion 761a of the support bracket 76 is connected to the lower positioning hole 712d, and the components of the frame body (such as components having the same structure as the support bracket 76) are not connected to the upper positioning hole 712d. Furthermore, the abutting portion 761c of the support bracket 76 is connected to the lower support plate 716, and the components of the frame body (such as components having the same structure as the support bracket 76) are not connected to the upper support plate 716.

[0138] Moreover, in Figure 3 In the third configuration of the imaging device A shown, the sheet boxes 11e and 11f, which are units, have the same common length in the sheet transport direction (left-right direction). The lengths of sheet boxes 11e and 11f are less than the length of sheet box 11c. The vertical lengths of sheet boxes 11e and 11f are greater than the vertical length of sheet box 11c, thereby making the sheet capacity of sheet boxes 11e and 11f greater than the sheet capacity of sheet box 11c.

[0139] Guide rails 77a and 77b are positioned on the right outer support column 711 and the lower rear side plate 72, and are fixed to them.

[0140] Guide rails 77d and 77e are positioned on the left outer support column 713 and the lower rear side plate 72, and are fixed to them.

[0141] The guide rail 77g is positioned on the support bracket 76 and the lower rear side plate 72, and is fixed between the right support column 71R and the left support column 71L on the support bracket 76 and the lower rear side plate 72.

[0142] exist Figure 3 In the third configuration of the imaging device shown, guide rails 77a and 77d support the sheet box 11c and guide the insertion and removal of the box.

[0143] Guide rails 77b and 77g support the sheet box 11e and guide the insertion and removal of the box.

[0144] Guide rails 77e and 77g support the sheet box 11f and guide the insertion and removal of the box.

[0145] Figure 14 The planar guides 77a to 77f of the sheet box are shown attached to the lower frame 70, which is not attached to the support bracket 76 at the second position of the lower front frame 71. Figure 14 The lower frame 70 shown is for support. Figure 1 The frame members of the sheet boxes 11a to 11c (sheet receiving portions) of the unit in the first construction form of the imaging device A shown.

[0146] That is, in the frame body 100 described above, which includes the right support column 71R, the left support column 71L, and the support bracket 76, the protruding portion 761a of the support bracket 76 is neither connected to the upper positioning hole 712d nor to the lower positioning hole 712d. This is an example of a structure in which the abutting portion 761c of the support bracket 76 is neither connected to the upper support plate 716 nor to the lower support plate 716.

[0147] Moreover, in Figure 1 In the first configuration of the imaging device A shown, the sheet boxes 11a to 11c, which are units, have the same common size.

[0148] Guide rails 77a, 77b and 77c are positioned on the right outer support column 711 and the lower rear side plate 72, and are fixed to them.

[0149] Guide rails 77d, 77e and 77f are positioned on the left outer support column 713 and the lower rear side plate 72, and are fixed to them.

[0150] Guide rails 77c and 77f support sheet box 11a and guide the insertion and removal of the box.

[0151] Guide rails 77b and 77e support the sheet box 11b and guide the insertion and removal of the box.

[0152] Guide rails 77a and 77d support sheet box 11c and guide the insertion and removal of the box.

[0153] exist Figure 1 In the first configuration of the imaging device A shown, the guide rail 77g is not required, and therefore the support bracket 76 is not attached.

[0154] As described above, according to this embodiment, the frame body 100 can be configured such that the support bracket 76 can be mounted at multiple positions on the right support column 71R and the left support column 71L. Furthermore, a first portion of the support bracket 76 is connected to the right support column 71R by moving in the left-right direction, and a second portion of the support bracket 76 is connected to the left support column 71L by moving in the up-down direction. Therefore, the support bracket 76 can not only be mounted at multiple positions on the columns but can also be removed. This configuration can accommodate imaging devices with different sheet box (unit) arrangements.

[0155] Moreover, production management of imaging devices with different sheet box arrangements can be easily carried out without the need for various types of frame bodies.

[0156] Moreover, the disassembly and assembly of connecting components become easier when the frame body is recycled, which contributes to environmental friendliness.

[0157] <Second Embodiment>

[0158] An imaging apparatus having a frame body according to a second embodiment will be described. Specifically, refer to... Figure 15B , Figure 16 , Figure 17A , Figure 17B , Figure 18A , Figure 18B and Figure 18C Another method for securing a support bracket to a support plate is described.

[0159] The construction of the frame body, which is independent of the method of fixing the support bracket to the support plate, and the construction of the imaging device having the frame body are the same as those described in the previous embodiments, and therefore are omitted.

[0160] The construction of the second part of the support bracket 77 to be connected to the right support column 71R will be described, as well as the construction of the support plate 717 (as the third and fourth connecting parts) configured to be connected to the second part of the support bracket 77.

[0161] The support bracket 77, serving as a connecting component, is connected to the bracket base 771 and the bracket reinforcing plate 772 by welding, such as... Figure 16 As shown.

[0162] The support bracket 77 has a first portion to be connected to the right inner support column 712 and a second portion to be connected to the left inner support column 714. The support bracket 77 has a protrusion 771a and a threaded hole 772a as the first portion to be connected to the right inner support column 712. The construction of the first portion of the support bracket 77 is the same as that of the previous embodiment.

[0163] The support bracket 77 has an abutment portion 771c and a fixing wall 772b with a hole 772c, as a second part to be connected to the left inner support column 714.

[0164] The abutment portion 771c is the left end portion of the bracket base 771 and abuts against the support plate 717 of the left inner support column 714 in the vertical direction. A fixing wall 772b is formed at the left end portion of the bracket reinforcing plate 772 to rise vertically from the abutment portion 771c. The fixing wall 772b has a hole 772c that penetrates the fixing wall 772b in an X-direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. The hole 772c is used to insert a screw, which serves as a fastening member, into the support plate 717 of the left inner support column 714. The support bracket 77 is connected to the support plate 717 of the left inner support column 714 via this screw. On the left side of the bracket base 771, a hole 771d is provided, into which the pull wall 717b of the support plate 717 is inserted.

[0165] On the side surface portion 712a of the right inner support column 712, a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion are disposed at two positions along the Z direction in the vertical direction. The first connecting portion and the second connecting portion are configured to connect to the first portion of the support bracket 77. The construction of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion is the same as that in the previous embodiment.

[0166] By fitting the protrusion 771a into the positioning hole 712d and securing it to the positioning hole 712d with screws, the support bracket 77 is positioned relative to the side surface portion 712a of the right inner support column 712. On the other hand, when the right column 71R and left column 71L are fitted onto the frame body 100, the support bracket 77 can be removed from the right inner support column 712 by removing the screws and pulling the protrusion 771a out of the positioning hole 712d in the leftward direction along the X direction in the figure. That is, when the support bracket 77 moves in the leftward direction along the X direction, the connection between the protrusion 771a of the support bracket 77 and the positioning hole 712d, which serves as the first and second connecting portions, is released.

[0167] Two support plates 717, serving as the third and fourth connecting parts, are positioned at two locations on the side surface portion 714a of the left inner column 714 in the Z direction (vertical direction), and these two support plates 717 are configured to connect with the second part of the support bracket 77. Figure 15B This is a perspective view showing the support plate 717.

[0168] On the two support plates 717 that serve as the third and fourth connecting parts, a protrusion 717e and a hole 717f are respectively provided. The protrusion 717e is used to position the support plate 717 relative to the left inner support column 714. The screw (as a fastening member) to be screwed into the hole 714e of the left inner support column 714 is inserted into the hole 717f.

[0169] By fitting the protrusion 717e into the positioning hole 714d, the support plate 717 is positioned relative to the side surface portion 714a of the left inner support column 714 and secured with screws. Alternatively, when the left inner support column 714 is mounted on the frame body 100, the support plate 717 can be removed from the left inner support column 714 by removing the screws and pulling the protrusion 717e out of the positioning hole 714d in the rightward direction along the X direction. That is, the support plate 717 is configured to connect with the left inner support column 714, and the connection between the support plate 717 and the left inner support column 714 is released when the support plate 717 moves relative to the left inner support column 714 in the rightward direction along the X direction.

[0170] Furthermore, on the support plate 717, which serves as the third connecting portion, there is an arrangement surface 717a (as a support portion) that supports the abutment portion 771c of the support bracket 77 from below in the vertical direction, and a pull wall 717b that rises from the arrangement surface 717a in the upward direction (Z direction) of the vertical direction. The pull wall 717b has a threaded hole 717d for fixing the support bracket 77 by screws as fastening members. Moreover, the support plate 717 has a pressing portion 717c that presses the abutment portion 771c of the support bracket 77 supported by the arrangement surface 717a against the arrangement surface 717a. The pressing portion 717c is provided on the pull wall 717b so as to face the arrangement surface 717a with a gap in the vertical direction. The pressing portion 717c is formed on both ends of the pull wall 717b in the Y direction so as to rise from the pull wall 717b in the left direction in the X direction. By connecting the pull wall 717b to the fixed wall 772b of the support bracket 77 with screws, the pressing portion 717c presses the abutting portion 771c of the support bracket 77, supported by the arrangement surface 717a, against the arrangement surface 717a. Similar to the third connecting portion, the support plate 717, as the fourth connecting portion, has an arrangement surface 717a, a pull wall 717b with a threaded hole 717d, and a pressing portion 717c. The support plate 717 is positioned vertically in a different location than the third connecting portion.

[0171] By moving the abutment portion 771c downwards and placing it on the arrangement surface 717a, the support bracket 77 is connected to the support plate 717 fixed to the left inner support column 714. Furthermore, the support bracket 77 is positioned and fixed by connecting the pull wall 717b to the fixed wall 772b with screws, thereby pressing the abutment portion 771c against the arrangement surface 717a by the pressing portion 717c. On the other hand, when the right support column 71R and the left support column 71L are assembled onto the frame body 100, the support bracket 77 can be removed from the support plate 717 by removing the screws and moving the abutment portion 771c upwards to separate it from the arrangement surface 717a. That is, the support plate 717 is configured such that the connection between the support plate 717 and the support bracket 77 is released by moving the support bracket 77 vertically.

[0172] The method of mounting the support bracket 77 onto the lower front frame 71 will be described below.

[0173] Similar to the support bracket 76 in the previous embodiment, the support bracket 77 is tilted to avoid interference with the bent portions 711b of the right outer support column 711 and the left outer support column 713b extending into the device. Then, the tilted support bracket 77 is inserted into the inside of the lower front frame 71.

[0174] The process of positioning and fixing the support bracket 77 to the right inner support column 712 is the same as that described in the previous embodiment, so the repeated description is omitted.

[0175] Reference Figure 17A , Figure 17B , Figure 18A , Figure 18B and Figure 18C The process of fixing the support bracket 77 to the support plate 717 of the left inner support column 714 is described. Figure 17B In the diagram, the left outer support column 713 is not shown, and the left inner support column 714 is partially shown in a broken view. Figure 18A , Figure 18B and Figure 18C The screws used to fix the support plate 717 to the left inner support column 714 are not shown.

[0176] like Figure 18A As shown, hole 771d is provided on support bracket 77. Hole 771d is arranged on arrangement surface 717a of support plate 717, avoiding pull wall 717b and pressing part 717c.

[0177] The abutment portion 771c on the left side of the support bracket 77 is moved vertically so that it is positioned on the arrangement surface 717a of the support plate 717, thereby bringing the support bracket 77 to a substantially horizontal state. Figure 18A As shown, the hole 771d of the support bracket 77 is formed to avoid the pull wall 717b and the pressing portion 717c of the support plate 717, so that the abutting portion 771c of the support bracket 77 is arranged on the arrangement surface 717a of the support plate 717.

[0178] When the support bracket 77 is positioned and fixed on the right inner support column 712, the support bracket 77 moves to... Figure 18B The position shown is such that the abutting portion 771c of the support bracket 77 is below the pressing portion 717c of the support plate 717.

[0179] Insert a screw through the hole 713f on the left outer support column 713, the hole 714f on the left inner support column 714, and the hole 772c on the support bracket 77, and screw it into the threaded hole 717d of the support plate 717.

[0180] By tightening the screws, the pull wall 717b of the support plate 717 tilts to the left (to the left in the left-right direction), thereby being pulled towards the fixed wall 772b of the support bracket 77, as... Figure 18C As shown.

[0181] When the wall 717b is tilted, the pressing portion 717c presses the abutting portion 771c of the support bracket 77 against the arrangement surface 717a of the support plate 717 along the Z direction (the downward direction of the vertical direction). As a result, the support bracket 77 is positioned along the Z direction to the support plate 717 of the right inner support column 712 and fixed thereto.

[0182] Furthermore, in this embodiment, similar effects to those in the previous embodiment are achieved. Moreover, according to this embodiment, screws for fixing the support bracket 77 can be fitted from the outside of the lower front frame 71, thereby improving assembly operability.

[0183] <Other Embodiments>

[0184] In the preceding embodiments, the connecting portions of the support column, configured to connect with the first or second portion of the support bracket, are exemplaryly positioned at two locations in the vertical direction on the support column. However, the number and location of the connecting portions are not limited to this configuration, and the connecting portions may be located at more than three locations.

[0185] Moreover, in the preceding embodiments, screws were used as examples of fastening members, but fastening members are not limited to screws.

[0186] Furthermore, in the preceding embodiments, the unit supported by the frame body is exemplified as a sheet cassette (sheet receiving portion). However, the unit is not limited to a sheet cassette. The unit can be an imaging unit (imaging portion) configured to be supported by a frame body and to form an image in an imaging device. Moreover, the device with a frame body is exemplified by an imaging device. However, the device with a frame body is not limited to an imaging device. Alternatively, the device with a frame body can be a sheet receiving device having a sheet receiving portion (e.g., a sheet cassette) configured to receive sheets and supported by the frame body. Alternatively, the device with a frame body can be a sheet conveying device having a sheet conveying portion (e.g., a conveying unit) configured to convey sheets and supported by the frame body. Alternatively, the device with a frame body can be a sheet processing device having a sheet processing portion (e.g., a packing unit) configured to process sheets and supported by the frame body. Similar effects can be obtained by applying this disclosure to the frame bodies of these devices.

[0187] In the preceding embodiments, the imaging device was exemplified as a printer. However, this disclosure is not limited to this. A copier, fax machine, or multifunction printer with these functions can also be an imaging device. Moreover, this disclosure can be applied to the frame body of an imaging device that uses a recording material carrier member and transfers toner images of corresponding colors onto recording material carried by the recording material carrier member in a sequentially superimposed manner, achieving the same effect.

[0188] In the preceding embodiments, the electrophotographic system was exemplified as a recording system. However, another recording system, such as an inkjet system, could be used.

[0189] Although this disclosure has been described with reference to embodiments, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. The scope of the following claims should be interpreted in the broadest sense to cover all such variations and equivalent structures and functions.

[0190] This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-214354 (filed on December 9, 2024), which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Claims

1. A framework ontology, comprising: First component; Second component; as well as A connecting member, comprising: a first portion configured to connect to a first member; and a second portion configured to connect to a second member. The first component includes a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion, which are respectively configured to connect with the first portion of the connecting component. The second component includes a third connecting portion and a fourth connecting portion, which are respectively configured to connect with the second portion of the connecting component. Wherein, no component of the frame body is connected to at least the second connecting portion, and Wherein, no component of the frame body is connected to at least the fourth connecting portion.

2. The frame body according to claim 1, in, The first portion of the connecting member is connected to the first connecting portion, and The second part of the connecting member is connected to the third connecting part.

3. The frame body according to claim 1, in, The first component and the second component extend in the vertical direction, Wherein, the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion are respectively configured such that the first portion of the connecting member abuts against the vertical side surface of the first member, and The third connecting portion and the fourth connecting portion each have a supporting portion, and the lower surface of the second portion of the connecting member in the vertical direction abuts against the supporting portion.

4. The frame body according to claim 1, in, The first component and the second component extend along the first direction, Wherein, the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion are respectively configured to release the connection between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion and the first portion of the connecting member by moving the connecting member along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and The third connecting portion and the fourth connecting portion are respectively configured to release the connection between the third connecting portion and the fourth connecting portion and the second portion of the connecting member by moving the connecting member along the first direction.

5. The frame body according to claim 1, in, The first component and the second component extend along a first direction, and The first connecting portion and the second connecting portion include positioning holes, and the first portion of the connecting member is inserted into the positioning holes along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

6. The frame body according to claim 1, in, The first connecting portion and the second connecting portion include threaded holes for securing the first portion by fastening members.

7. The frame body according to claim 1, in, The first component and the second component extend along a first direction, and The first connection portion and the second connection portion include: A positioning hole, wherein the first portion of the connecting member is inserted into the positioning hole along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and Threaded holes are used to secure the first part by means of fastening components.

8. The frame body according to claim 1, in, The first component and the second component extend vertically, and The third and fourth connecting portions include a support portion that vertically supports the second portion of the connecting member from below.

9. The frame body according to claim 1, in, The third and fourth connecting portions include threaded holes for securing the second portion of the connecting member by means of a fastening member.

10. The frame body according to claim 1, in, The first component and the second component extend vertically, and The third connecting portion and the fourth connecting portion include: The support portion, which vertically supports the second portion of the connecting member from below, and A threaded hole is provided for securing the second part of the connecting member by means of a fastening member.

11. The frame body according to claim 1, in, The first component and the second component extend in the vertical direction, The third connecting portion and the fourth connecting portion respectively include: A supporting portion that vertically supports the second portion of the connecting member from below; The wall portion, wherein the wall portion is configured to rise vertically upward from the support portion; and The pressing portion is disposed on the wall portion so as to face the supporting portion with a gap between them. The threaded hole for fixing the connecting member by means of a fastening member is provided on the wall portion, and Wherein, by connecting the wall portion to the connecting member using the fastening member, the pressing portion presses the second portion of the connecting member, which is supported by the supporting portion, against the supporting portion.

12. The frame body according to claim 8, in, The connection between the third and fourth connecting portions and the second component is released by moving the second component and the supporting portion relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction.

13. The frame body according to claim 11, in, The connection between the third and fourth connecting portions and the second component is released by moving the second component and the supporting portion relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction.

14. The frame body according to claim 1, in, When the frame body supports the first unit, the first portion of the connecting member is connected to the first connecting portion, no component of the frame body is connected to the second connecting portion, the second portion of the connecting member is connected to the third connecting portion, and no component of the frame body is connected to the fourth connecting portion. Specifically, when the frame body supports a second unit whose size is different from that of the first unit, the first part of the connecting member is connected to the second connecting part, no component of the frame body is connected to the first connecting part, the second part of the connecting member is connected to the fourth connecting part, and no component of the frame body is connected to the third connecting part.

15. The frame body according to claim 1, in, The connection between the first portion of the connecting member and the first connecting portion of the first member is releasable. The connection between the second portion of the connecting member and the third connecting portion of the second member is releasable. Wherein, the first portion of the connecting member can be connected to the second connecting portion of the first member, and The second part of the connecting member can be connected to the fourth connecting part of the second member.

16. A framework ontology, comprising: First component; Second component; as well as A connecting member that connects the first member to the second member. The connecting member can be removed from the frame body when the first member and the second member are assembled onto the frame body.

17. A framework ontology, comprising: First component; as well as Second component, The frame body is configured such that the connecting members can be attached to the frame body. The first component includes a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion that can be connected to a first portion of the connecting component, respectively. The second component includes a third connecting portion and a fourth connecting portion, which are respectively capable of being connected to the second portion of the connecting component. Wherein, no component of the frame body is connected to at least the second connecting portion, and Wherein, no component of the frame body is connected to at least the fourth connecting portion.

18. A sheet receiving device, comprising: The frame body according to any one of claims 1 to 16; as well as The sheet receiving portion is configured to receive a sheet, and the sheet receiving portion is supported by the frame body.

19. A sheet conveying device, comprising: The frame body according to any one of claims 1 to 16; as well as The sheet conveying section is configured to convey sheets and is supported by the frame body.

20. A sheet processing apparatus, comprising: The frame body according to any one of claims 1 to 16; as well as The sheet processing section is configured to process sheets and is supported by the frame body.

21. An imaging device, comprising: The frame body according to any one of claims 1 to 16; as well as The imaging portion is configured to form an image and is supported by the frame body.

Images