Development cartridge

Abstract

A developing cartridge comprises a housing, a developer carrier, a supply element, a developing electrode, a supply electrode, and an insulating element. The housing is configured to hold developer. The developing carrier is configured to rotate about an axis of rotation and support the developer. The supply element is configured to feed the developer to the developing carrier. The developing electrode is configured to be electrically connected to the developing carrier. The supply electrode is configured to be electrically connected to the supply element. The insulating element isolates the developing electrode and the supply electrode from each other. The developing electrode, the insulating element, and the supply electrode overlap in that order in an axial direction around the axis of rotation.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a developing cartridge which is adapted to be mounted on an image-generating device which employs an electrophotographic system. State of the art

[0002] As described in patent literature 1, an image-generating device known in the prior art, which uses an electrophotographic system, has a developing cartridge which is detachably mounted in a device body to provide developer for a light-sensitive drum.

[0003] Such a development cartridge, which has been proposed, is a development unit comprising a development roller or roller which carries toner, a supply roller or roller which provides toner to the development roller, a first contact element which is electrically connected to a rotating shaft of the development roller, and a second contact element which is electrically connected to a rotating shaft of the supply roller. List of citations from patent literature

[0004] Patent literature 1: Japanese patent application publication no. 2005-70402 Summary of the invention: Technical problem

[0005] In this development unit, the first contact element and the second contact element are retained in a cover element, which covers the ends of rotating shafts in the development roller and the supply roller in such a way that contact parts of the first and second contact elements protrude from an outer surface of the cover element.

[0006] However, in order to make the development unit described in the patent document above more compact, the first and second contact elements must be placed close to each other.

[0007] If the first and second contact elements are placed close together, it becomes more difficult to ensure that the first and second contact elements are isolated from each other.

[0008] In light of the foregoing, it is an object of the present invention to provide a development cartridge which can be manufactured compactly while reliably isolating a development electrode and a supply electrode from each other. Solution to the problem (1) To achieve the above and other objectives, the present invention provides a developing cartridge. The developing cartridge comprises a housing, a developer carrier, a supply element, a developing electrode, a supply electrode, and an insulating element. The housing is configured to hold developer. The developer carrier is configured to rotate about an axis extending in an axial direction and to support the developer. The supply element is configured to supply the developer to the developer carrier. The developing electrode is configured to be electrically connected to the developer carrier. The supply electrode is configured to be electrically connected to the supply element. The insulating element isolates the developing electrode and the supply electrode from each other.The developing electrode, the insulating element and the supply electrode overlap in the axial direction in that order.

[0009] In other words, the supply electrode is positioned opposite the developing electrode in the axial direction of the axis of rotation with a gap between them, and the insulating element is positioned between the developing electrode and the supply electrode to isolate the electrodes from each other.

[0010] With this configuration, the insulating element between the development electrode and the supply electrode is arranged in the axial direction of the axis of rotation.

[0011] Therefore, the developing electrode and the supply electrode can be isolated from each other without providing a gap between the two electrodes in a direction orthogonal to the axial direction. This means that the developing electrode and the supply electrode can be placed in close proximity in directions orthogonal to the axial direction.

[0012] Accordingly, the development cartridge can be manufactured compactly at least in directions orthogonal to the axial direction, while reliably isolating the development electrode and supply electrode from each other. (2) Preferably the insulating element functions as a bearing element which is configured to rotatably support at least one of the developer support element and the supply element.

[0013] With this construction, the bearing element of the insulating element can support at least one of the developer support element and the supply element.

[0014] This design requires fewer parts than a structure in which the insulating element and the bearing element are provided separately. (3) Preferably, the developing electrode has a developing-side contact part extending in the axial direction, and the supply electrode has a supply-side contact part extending in the axial direction. The insulating element has a contact receiving part extending in the axial direction and configured to contact the developing-side contact part and the supply-side contact part.

[0015] With this design, contact between the development-side contact part of the development electrode and the contact-receiving part of the insulating element can restrict movement of the development electrode. Similarly, contact between the supply-side contact part of the supply electrode and the contact-receiving part of the insulating element can restrict movement of the supply electrode.

[0016] Consequently, the number of required parts can be reduced, as the insulating element can be used to restrict movement of the supply and development electrodes. Furthermore, the insulating element can ensure reliable insulation between the development and supply electrodes while restricting or limiting movement of both electrodes. (4) Preferably, the developing electrode has a developing contact configured to touch an external developing electrode. The supply electrode has a supply contact configured to touch an external supply electrode, and the supply contact is arranged opposite the developing contact with a gap between them. The insulating element has an insulating portion arranged between the developing contact and the supply contact. The insulating portion extends further outwards than the developing contact and the supply contact.

[0017] With this configuration, the insulating part of the insulating element can be positioned between the developing contact of the developing electrode and the supply contact of the supply electrode. Therefore, this configuration can ensure a more substantial insulation distance than an insulating element that extends outwards at the same height (length) as the developing and supply contacts.

[0018] Therefore, this design can reliably isolate the development contact and the supply contact from each other. (5) Preferably the developing cartridge further comprises a screw for jointly fastening the developing electrode, the insulating element and the supply electrode to the housing.

[0019] This design allows the developing electrode, the insulating element, and the supply electrode to be attached to the housing using fewer parts. (6) Preferably, the insulating element has an insertion section into which the screw is inserted. The housing has a threaded part into which the screw is screwed.

[0020] This design allows the screw to be screwed into the housing while remaining covered by the insertion part of the insulating element.

[0021] Therefore, it can be prevented that the section of the screw which is inserted into the insertion part and the section of the screw which is screwed into the threaded part of the housing touch the developing electrode and the supply electrode.

[0022] Therefore, this configuration can reliably prevent electricity from being conducted between the developing electrode and the supply electrode via the screw. (7) Preferably the screw is in contact with the insertion section and the threaded part, but away from the developing electrode and the supply electrode.

[0023] This design can more reliably prevent the screw from touching the developing electrode and the supply electrode.

[0024] Therefore, this design can prevent electricity from being conducted between the developing electrode and the supply electrode through the screw. (8) Preferably, the insertion section has a cylindrical shape extending in the axial direction. The development electrode is formed with an insertion hole on the development side into which the insertion section is inserted.

[0025] With this design, the screw can be inserted through the insertion part, which has been inserted into the development-side insertion hole formed in the development electrode.

[0026] Therefore, the insertion part can be positioned between the developing electrode (and more precisely the circumferential edge of the developing-side insertion hole) and the screw in order to isolate the developing electrode and the screw from each other.

[0027] Furthermore, since the insertion part has a cylindrical shape extending in the axial direction, the insertion part can ensure an isolated state between the development electrode and the screw in the axial direction. (9) Preferably, the threaded part has a cylindrical shape extending in the axial direction. The supply electrode is formed with a supply-side insertion hole into which the threaded part is inserted.

[0028] With this design, the screw can be screwed into the threaded part, which has been inserted into the supply-side insertion hole formed in the supply electrode.

[0029] Therefore, the threaded part can be positioned between the supply electrode (and more precisely the circumferential edge of the supply-side insertion hole) and the screw to ensure that the supply electrode and the screw are insulated from each other.

[0030] Furthermore, since the threaded part has a cylindrical shape extending in the axial direction, the threaded part can ensure an insulated state between the supply electrode and the screw in the axial direction. (10) Preferably the insulating element has a bearing part independent of the insertion section, wherein the bearing part rotatably supports the developer support element.

[0031] With this design, the insulating element can be positioned with reference to the axis of rotation of the developer support element.

[0032] Therefore, by positioning the developing electrode relative to the insulating element, it is possible to ensure accuracy in the positioning of the developing electrode relative to the developer support element through the insulating element.

[0033] Accordingly, this design ensures that electricity is conducted between the developer support element and the developer electrode. (11) Preferably the insertion section has an inner diameter larger than the inner diameter of the threaded part.

[0034] With this design, the threaded part is easily exposed when the insertion part and the threaded part are aligned and projected onto a plane orthogonal to the axial direction.

[0035] Therefore, the screw can easily be screwed into the threaded part through the insertion part. (12) Preferably the insulating element has a guide part which is configured to guide the attachment of the developing cartridge relative to an external device.

[0036] With this design, the insulating element can be used to facilitate smooth assembly of the development cartridge relative to the external device. Advantageous effects of the invention

[0037] The development cartridge of the present invention can be manufactured compactly in at least directions orthogonal to the axial direction, while reliably isolating the development electrode and the supply electrode from each other. Brief description of the drawings

[0038] Fig. 1 is a central cross-sectional view of a printer in which a developing cartridge according to an embodiment of the present invention is mounted;

[0039] Fig. 2 is a right-side view of the developing cartridge, which is in Fig. 1 is shown;

[0040] Fig. Figure 3 is a perspective exploded view of a power supply unit, which is attached to the development cartridge, which is in Fig. 2 is shown, as intended, viewed from the right and rear;

[0041] Fig. Figure 4 is a right-side view of a cartridge frame, which is in Fig. 3 is shown;

[0042] Fig. 5 is a right side view showing a state in which the supply electrode is attached to the cartridge frame, which is in Fig. 4 is shown, mounted;

[0043] Fig. 6 is a right-hand side view showing a state in which a bearing element is attached to the cartridge frame, which is in Fig. 5 is shown, it is mounted;

[0044] Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the developing cartridge, which is in Fig. 2 is shown, taken along a line VII-VII;

[0045] Fig. Figure 8 is a bottom view of the development cartridge, which is in Fig. 2 is shown;

[0046] Fig. Figure 9 is a schematic explanatory view illustrating an assembly operation of the developing cartridge relative to a drum cartridge, wherein a rear end section of the developing cartridge is inserted into a cartridge receiving section of the drum cartridge;

[0047] Fig. Figure 10 is a schematic explanatory view that explains an assembly operation of a process cartridge relative to a main housing, wherein the process cartridge is fully assembled in the main housing; and

[0048] Fig. Figure 11 is a right side view showing the placement of a developing cartridge resting on a flat surface, according to a modification of the embodiment. Description of embodiments: 1. Printer

[0049] As in Fig. The printer shown in 1 is 1 with a main case 2 , which has a box-like shape.

[0050] Inside the main casing 2 is the printer 1 also with a leaf feeder unit 3 for feeding sheets of paper and an image-generating unit 4 to generate images on the sheets S, which are fed by the sheet feeder unit 3 will be made available, is planned.

[0051] Directions regarding the printer 1 are based on the printer's orientation 1 , when it rests on a flat surface, will be specified and will refer in particular to the directions indicated by arrows in Fig. 1 is displayed. (1) Main case

[0052] The main case 2 is equipped with a cartridge access opening 5for mounting and removing a process cartridge 15 (described later) and a paper feed opening 6 , through which the leaves S enter the main casing 2 be introduced, formed.

[0053] The cartridge access opening 5 is in the upper section of the main casing 2 formed and penetrates the main casing 2 in the top-down direction.

[0054] The paper feed opening 6 is located on the front of the main case 2 formed on the bottom section and penetrates the front side in the front-to-back direction.

[0055] The main case 2 It also has a top cover. 7 on, which is located on the upper section of it, and a leaf feed cover 8 , which is located at the front of it. The top cover 7 is equipped with an ejection tray 41provided into which the leaves S are ejected.

[0056] The top cover 7 is arranged so that it is able to rotate its rear edge between a closed position to cover the cartridge access opening. 5 and an open position to release the cartridge access opening 5 to swivel.

[0057] The leaf feed cover 8 is arranged to be able to position its bottom edge between a first position to cover the paper feed opening 6 and a second position to release the paper feed opening 6 to swivel. (2) Leaf feeder unit

[0058] The leaf feeder unit 3 features a leaf support part 9 , which is located in the bottom section of the main casing 2 is planned.

[0059] The leaf support part 9is through the paper feed opening 6 in conjunction with the exterior of the main casing 2 .

[0060] If the leaf feed cover 8 In the second position, paper sheets S are fed into the sheet feeder unit. 3 through the paper feed opening 6 introduced in such a way that the rear sections of the leaves S are on the leaf support part 9 are stacked and the front sections of the sheets S are on the upper surface of the sheet feeder cover 8 are stacked.

[0061] The leaf feeder unit 3 It also features a receiving roller or receiving roll 11 on, which above the rear edge of the leaf support part 9 is arranged, a feed roller or feed roll 12 , which are located on the rear side of the intake roller 11 is arranged, a feed support or feed tray 13(feeding pad), which is arranged so that it is against the lower rear side of the feed roller 12 opposite, and a feed path 14 , which continuously extends from the rear edge of the feed tray 13 extends upwards. (3) Image-generating unit

[0062] The image-generating unit 4 a process cartridge 15 , a scanning unit 16 and a fixing unit 17 on. (3-1) Process cartridge

[0063] The process cartridge 15 can be in the main case 2 They are attached or mounted and removed from the same. If they are in the main housing 2 Once installed, the process cartridge 15 above the rear section of the leaf feeder unit 3 arranged.

[0064] The process cartridge 15 features a drum cartridge 18and a developing cartridge 19 up. The drum cartridge 18 As an example of the external device, it can be solvable in the main housing. 2 Mountable. The development cartridge 19 is soluble in the drum cartridge 18 Mountable.

[0065] The drum cartridge 18 features a light-sensitive drum 20 , a transfer roller or transfer cylinder 21 and a Scorotron charger.

[0066] The light-sensitive drum 20 It is formed in a generally cylindrical shape, which extends in the left-right direction (axial direction). The light-sensitive drum 20 It is rotatable at the rear of the drum cartridge 18 planned.

[0067] The transfer roller 21 It is formed in a generally columnar shape, which extends in the left-right direction. The transfer roller 21is in pressure contact with the rear side of the light-sensitive drum 20 .

[0068] More precisely, the transfer roller 21 on the back side of the light-sensitive drum 20 its central axis is slightly lower than the central axis of the light-sensitive drum 20 It should be noted that the lower surface of the transfer roller 21 is higher than the lower surface of the light-sensitive drum 20 This means that a virtual line segment (not shown), which defines the central axis of the transfer roller 21 with the central axis of the light-sensitive drum 20 The connection forms an acute angle of approximately 3° with a virtual line (not shown) extending horizontally in the front-to-back direction. Therefore, the weight of the transfer roller influences this. 21 the pressure with which the transfer roller 21the light-sensitive drum 20 does not touch (transfer pressure).

[0069] The Scorotron charger 22 is arranged to face the upper front side of the light-sensitive drum 20 to stand opposite each other with a gap between them.

[0070] The Scorotron charger 22 is in a position separate from the transfer roller 21 in the circumferential direction of the light-sensitive drum 20 arranged. More precisely, the Scorotron charger. 22 arranged such that a virtual line segment (not shown), which defines the central axis of the light-sensitive drum 20 with the central axis of the transfer roller 21 connects, forming an angle of approximately 120° with a virtual line segment (not shown) which is the central axis of the light-sensitive drum 20 with a charging wire 23 (described later) connects.

[0071] The Scorotron charger 22 continues to point to the charging wire 23 and a grid 24 on.

[0072] The charging wire 23 is stretched in a taut state to expand in the left-right direction and is arranged to face the upper front side of the light-sensitive drum 20 to stand opposite each other, but to remain separate from it.

[0073] The grid 24 is formed to have a generally angular U-shape in a side view and is formed with the opening of the “U” directed diagonally upwards and forwards to accommodate the charging wire 23 to surround from the lower rear side.

[0074] The development cartridge 19 is on the lower front side of the light-sensitive drum 20 arranged. The developing cartridge 19 features a development cartridge frame 25 as an example of the housing.

[0075] The development cartridge frame 25 defines or limits a toner pickup chamber therein. 26 and a development chamber 27 The toner pickup chamber 26 and the development chamber 27 are side by side in a front-to-back direction with a communication opening 28 or connecting opening 28 , which allows a connection or communication between them, is provided. The toner chamber 26 and the development chamber 27 have essentially the same capacity.

[0076] The toner pickup chamber 26 It contains toner (developer). A stirrer or mixing mechanism. 29 is approximately front-to-back and vertical in the central area of ​​the toner pickup chamber 26 provided. In other words, the agitator is 29 lower than the light-sensitive drum20 positioned.

[0077] In the development chamber 27 has a floor wall 46 (described later) an upper surface which is equipped with a supply roller groove 30 , one of the surfaces opposite the development roller 31 and a lower film adhesion surface 32 is educated.

[0078] The supply roller groove 30 is in a generally semicircular shape, which corresponds to the circumferential surface of a supply roller 33 (described later) corresponds to, formed, wherein the convex shape of the supply roller groove 30 is pressed diagonally downwards and backwards.

[0079] The surface opposite the developing roller 31 is formed in a general arc shape, which corresponds to the circumferential surface of a developing roller 34 (described later) corresponds to the surface opposite the developing roller. 31extends continuously from the rear edge of the supply roller groove 30 towards the upper rear side.

[0080] The lower film adhesion surface 32 is continuous with the rear edge of the surface opposite the developing roller 31 It is formed and extends backwards from it. Therefore, the lower film adhesion surface is... 32 positioned higher than the surface opposite the developing roller 31 .

[0081] The lower film adhesion surface 32 is also arranged to protect the lower section or bottom section of the light-sensitive drum 20 to face each other in the top-bottom direction with a gap in between. The lower film adhesion surface 32 is arranged so that it aligns with the central axis of the light-sensitive drum 20 overlaps when projected vertically.

[0082] The supply roller 33 as an example of the supply element, the development roller 34 As an example of the developer carrier element, a thickness-regulating blade, and a lower film or layer. 36 are in the development chamber 27 planned.

[0083] The supply roller 33 It is formed in a generally columnar shape, which extends in the left-right direction. The supply roller 33 is in the front area of ​​the development chamber 27 with its bottom section in the supply roller groove 30 arranged as provided. The supply roller 33 It is capable of rotating around its central axis. With this configuration, the supply roller 33 on the rear side of the toner pickup chamber 26 It is arranged and is at approximately the same height as the toner pickup chamber.26 arranged.

[0084] The development roller 34 It is formed in a generally columnar shape, which extends in the left-right direction. The development roller 34 is in the rear area of ​​the development chamber 27 provided such that the bottom circumferential surface of the development roller 34 the surface opposite the developing roller 31 with a gap in between, in the opposite direction. The developing roller 34 is able to rotate around its central axis (axis of rotation).

[0085] The development roller 34 is also arranged to fit the upper rear side of the supply roller 33 to touch and in such a way that the upper rear side surface of the developing roller 34 outside the development chamber 27 are exposed and the lower front surface of the light-sensitive drum 20touch. In other words, the development roller 34 on the upper rear side of the supply roller 33 and the lower front side of the light-sensitive drum 20 arranged. The central axes of the supply roller 33 , the development roller 34 and the light-sensitive drum 20 are along essentially the same line, following a radial direction of the light-sensitive drum 20 positioned.

[0086] The development roller 34 is also in a position separate from the Scorotron charger 22 in the circumferential direction of the light-sensitive drum 20 arranged. More precisely, the development roller 34 arranged such that a virtual line segment (not shown), which defines the central axis of the light-sensitive drum 20 with the charging wire 23connects, forming an angle of approximately 120° with a virtual line segment (not shown) which is the central axis of the light-sensitive drum 20 with the central axis of the development roller 34 connects. Accordingly, the development rollers are 34 , the Scorotron charger 22 and the transfer roller 21 at essentially equal intervals along the circumferential direction of the light-sensitive drum 20 arranged.

[0087] The upper edge of the thickness-adjusting blade 35 is at the rear edge of the upper wall, which is the development chamber 27 limited, fixed. The bottom edge or lower edge of the thickness-adjusting blade. 35 touches the development roller 34 from the front side of it.

[0088] The rear section of the lower film 36 or the lower slide 36is on the lower film-adherent surface 32 attached. The front edge of the lower film 36 touches the circumferential surface of the development roller 34 above the surface opposite the developing roller 31 . (3-2) Scanning unit or sampling unit

[0089] The scanning unit 16 is on the front side of the process cartridge 15 in a position opposite but separate from the light-sensitive drum 20 arranged in the front-to-back direction.

[0090] The scanning unit 16 projects a laser beam L towards the light-sensitive drum 20 based on image data, thereby determining the circumferential surface of the light-sensitive drum 20 is exposed.

[0091] More precisely, the scanning unit emits radiation 16the laser beam L is directed backwards to the circumferential surface of the light-sensitive drum 20 to expose the front of it. In other words, the exposure point is where the light-sensitive drum is exposed. 20 is exposed (the circumferential surface on the front side of the light-sensitive drum) 20 ) configured to be on the opposite side of the roller nip part, with the photosensitive drum 20 and the transfer roller 21 each other with respect to the central axis of the light-sensitive drum 20 touch.

[0092] At this time, the development cartridge 19 arranged under the path of the emitted laser beam L, while the Scorotron charger 22 is positioned above the path of the emitted laser beam L.

[0093] The main case 2 has internal surfaces which are equipped with guide parts 37are provided which are located in the space between the scanning unit 16 and the light-sensitive drum 20 for the initial assembly and removal of the process cartridge 15 are positioned. If the process cartridge 15 from the main case 2 When removed, the guide parts 37 the process cartridge 15 , so that the development cartridge 19 , which are in the drum cartridge 18 is mounted, moves upwards, passing from the lower side of the emission path on the laser beam L to the upper side of it.

[0094] At this time, various rollers come into play, which are located in the process cartridge. 15 are provided (the transfer roller 21 , the supply roller 33 and the development roller 34 ), also passing upwards along the emission path of the laser beam L. (3-3) Fixing unit

[0095] The fixing unit 17 is above the rear section of the drum cartridge 18 arranged. More precisely, the fixing unit 17 a heating roller or heating cylinder 38 on, which is above the Scorotron charger 22 is arranged, and a pressure roller or pressure roll 39 , which are in pressure contact with the upper rear side of the heating roller 38 is.

[0096] According to this, the heating roller 38 near the top edge (edge ​​of the open side) of the grid 24 in the Scorotron charger 22 arranged. (4) Image-generating operation

[0097] The agitator 29 rotates to remove toner from the toner pickup chamber 26 the development cartridge 19 the supply roller 33 through the communication opening or connection opening 28to provide. The feed roller, in turn, places the toner onto the development roller. 34 available, at what time the toner is positively charged with a triboelectric charge between the supply roller 33 and the development roller 34 is loading.

[0098] The thickness-adjusting blade 35 regulates the thickness of the toner, which is applied to the development roller 34 is made available by the development roller 34 rotates so that a thin layer of toner, which has a uniform thickness, is deposited onto the surface of the developing roller. 34 is applied.

[0099] Meanwhile, the Scorotron charger is charging. 22 evenly across the surface of the light-sensitive drum 20 The scanning unit 16 The surface of the light-sensitive drum is then exposed. 20, an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the light-sensitive drum 20 forming based on image data. Next, the toner, which is on the developing roller, is applied. 34 is worn, the electrostatic latent image on the circumferential surface of the light-sensitive drum 20 provided so that a toner image (developer image) is projected onto the circumferential surface of the light-sensitive drum 20 is worn.

[0100] The rotating intake roller 11 places leaves S, which are on the leaf support part 9 between the feed roller 12 and the feed tray 13 are stacked, available and the rotating feed roller 12 separates the sheets S, transports each separated sheet S onto the feed path 14 and places the sheets S one after the other of the image-generating unit 4(between the light-sensitive drum 20 and the transfer roller 21 ) available at a predetermined timing or point in time.

[0101] Each sheet S is placed between the light-sensitive drum 20 and the transfer roller 21 transported upwards, at what time the toner image is transferred from the light-sensitive drum 20 is transferred to sheet S, thereby forming an image on sheet S.

[0102] Next, the sheet S passes between the heating roller. 38 and the printing roller 39 through. At this time, the heating roller is in operation. 38 and the printing roller 39 Heat and pressure are applied to sheet S to thermally fix the image onto sheet S.

[0103] The blade S is subsequently moved in the direction of the ejection rollers. 40 transported. The ejection rollers 40 throw the sheet S onto the ejection tray 41from which are located on the upper surface of the main casing 2 is educated.

[0104] In this way, the leaf S is separated from the leaf support part. 9 provided and transported along a transport path which has a general C-shape in a side view, first between the light-sensitive drum 20 and the transfer roller 21 (the roller gap section) and next between the heating roller 38 and the printing roller 39 passing through and subsequently onto the ejection tray 41 being ejected. 2. Development cartridge

[0105] As in Fig. 2 and Fig. As shown in section 3, the development cartridge 19 the development cartridge frame 25 , which is described above, and a power supply unit 43 , which are located on the right side of the development cartridge frame 25is planned.

[0106] A drive unit 42 is on the left side of the development cartridge frame 25 provided. The drive unit 42 has a gear train or gear ratio which provides a driving force which is supplied by the main housing 2 The following description provides a detailed description of the structure in relation to the power supply for the development cartridge. 19 (the structure on the right side of the development cartridge 19 ) exhibit, however, it will be a description of the structure related to the driving force which the development cartridge 19 is supplied (the structure on the left side of the development cartridge) 19 ) omit.

[0107] Furthermore, the following description of the development cartridge 19Descriptions relating to the development cartridge 19 assuming that the side of the development cartridge 19 , into which the development roller 34 The intended side is the rear side, and the side in which the thickness-regulating blade is located. 35 The intended orientation is the upper side. That is, the upper, lower, front, and rear directions with respect to the development cartridge. 19 differ slightly in the top, bottom, front and rear directions with respect to the printer. 1 If the development cartridge 19 in the printer 1 When mounted, the rear side of the development cartridge is visible. 19 the upper rear side of the printer 1 turned towards and the front side of the developing cartridge 19 is the lower front side of the printer 1 facing. (1) Development cartridge frame

[0108] As in Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in section 4, this is the development cartridge frame. 25 formed with a box-like shape, which extends in the left-right direction and is open at the rear. More precisely, the developing cartridge frame has 25 a right wall 44 , a left wall (not shown), a front wall 45 (see Fig. 1) a floor wall or lower wall 46 and an upper wall 47 on.

[0109] The right wall 44 The left wall (not shown) is formed with a generally rectangular shape in a side view, which extends in the vertical and front-to-back directions. The right wall 44 and the left wall are on opposite sides of the development cartridge frame 25 Arranged in a left-right direction. Each of the right walls 44and the left wall are equipped with a development roller shaft exposure hole 49 and a supply roller shaft exposure hole 48 educated.

[0110] The development roller shaft exposure holes 49 are at the rear ends of the right wall 44 and the left wall (not shown) formed in its approximate vertical central region. The development roller shaft exposure holes 49 They have a generally round shape in a side view and penetrate the right wall. 44 and the left wall in the left-right direction. The diameter of the development roller shaft exposure holes. 49 is larger than the outer diameter of the rotating shaft in the developing roller 34 (hereinafter referred to as the developing roller shaft A1). The developing roller shaft exposure holes 49 They are also open on the upper rear side.

[0111] The supply roller shaft exposure holes 48 are located near the bottom end sections or lower end sections of the corresponding right wall 44 and the left wall (not shown) and are formed on the lower front sides of the respective development roller shaft exposure holes 49 positioned. The supply roller shaft exposure holes 48 are formed in a generally rectangular shape in a side view and penetrate the right wall 44 and the left wall in the left-right direction. The dimensions of the supply roller shaft exposure holes. 48 are larger than the outer diameters of the rotating shaft in the supply roller 33 (hereinafter referred to as the supply roller shaft A2). Furthermore, the upper rear sides of the supply roller shaft's exposure holes are 48in conjunction with the lower front sides of the corresponding development roller shaft exposure holes 49 . Each of the supply roller shaft exposure holes 48 is equipped with a shaft seal 55 , which is fitted into it, is provided.

[0112] The shaft seal 55 It is formed from a resin-containing sponge or similar material. The shaft seal 55 It has a generally rectangular, columnar shape, which is essentially right-angled in a side view, and has a slightly larger outer dimension than the dimensions of the supply roller shaft exposure hole. 48 A through hole 59 , which has a slightly smaller diameter than the outer diameter of the supply roller shaft A2, is located at the approximate center of the shaft seal. 55 , when viewed from the side. The supply roller shaft A2 is inserted into the through hole. 59introduced.

[0113] The left and right ends of the development roller shaft A1 are on the outer left-right sides of the corresponding right wall. 44 and the left wall (not shown) through the development roller shaft exposure holes 49 exposed or exposed. The left and right ends of the supply roller shaft A2 are located on the outer left and right sides of the right wall. 44 and the left wall through the corresponding supply roller shaft exposure holes 48 exposed or exposed. It should be noted that the left ends of the development roller shaft A1 and the supply roller shaft A2 are connected to a gear train (not shown) of the drive unit. 42 are coupled, so that the drive unit 42 a driving force can be transferred to the development roller shaft A1 and the supply roller shaft A2.

[0114] The right wall 44is also with a plurality of (three) positioning advantages 50 and a threaded part 51 and a part opposite the supply electrode 52 planned.

[0115] The positioning advantages 50 are positioned with a competitive advantage 50 on the lower rear side of the development roller shaft exposure hole 49 , one located on the upper front side of the development roller shaft exposure hole 49 and one above the threaded part 51 arranged. The positioning protrusions 50 are formed in a generally columnar shape and point to the right of the right surface of the right wall 44 stand out.

[0116] The threaded part 51 is above the supply roller shaft exposure hole 48 arranged. The threaded part 51is integral with a part 56 large diameter and part 57 designed for small diameter.

[0117] The part 56 large diameter is formed in a generally cylindrical shape and points to the right of the right surface of the right wall. 44 stand out.

[0118] The part 57 small diameter is formed in a generally cylindrical shape, which is coaxial with the part 56 large diameter and extends to the right from the right surface of the part 56 protrudes a large diameter. The inner diameter of the part 57 The small diameter is equivalent to the inner diameter of the part. 56 large diameter, while the outer diameter of the part 57 small diameter is smaller than the outer diameter of the part 56 large diameter.

[0119] The part 56large diameter and the part 57 small diameters share an inner circumferential surface 58 , on which a thread runs continuously over both the part 56 large diameter as well as the part 57 is formed of small diameter.

[0120] The part opposite the supply electrode 52 is formed in a plate shape, which is generally rectangular in a side view, and which extends upwards from the upper edge of the right wall 44 extending along approximately the front-to-back center of the area. The part opposite the supply electrode. 52 exhibits a majority of increases 53 and a protective wall 54 on.

[0121] The increases 53are formed in a plate shape which has a general triangular shape in a top view, with its apex oriented to the right to be to the right of the approximate front-back center of the part opposite the supply electrode. 52 to stand out. Furthermore, the increases are 53 arranged parallel to each other and spaced diagonally in one direction between the lower front side and the upper rear side.

[0122] The protective wall 54 is formed in a plate shape, which is generally rectangular in a rear view and extends from the front edge of the part opposite the supply electrode. 52 on the front side of the raised areas 53 out of.

[0123] The front wall 45 (see Fig. 1) has a general plate shape, which extends in the left-right direction. The front wall 45integrally bridges the front edges of the right wall 44 and the left wall (not shown).

[0124] The lower wall or floor wall 46 It is formed in a general plate shape, which extends in the left-right direction. The floor wall 46 extends continuously from the lower edge of the front wall 45 to the rear and integrally bridges the lower edges or floor edges of the right wall 44 on the left wall (not shown). It should be noted that the rear edge of the lower wall 46 curves upwards and backwards to conform to the circumferential surface of the supply roller 33 to adapt and subsequently extends diagonally upwards towards the rear to fit the bottom of the development roller 34 to cover.

[0125] The upper wall 47is formed in a general plate shape, which extends in the left-right direction and is opposed to the upper edges of the front wall 45 , the right wall 44 and the left wall (not shown). The perimeter edges of the upper wall 47 are at the upper edges of the front wall 45 , the right wall 44 and attached to the left wall by welding or another method. (2) Power supply unit

[0126] As in Fig. 2 and Fig. As shown in 3, the power supply unit 43 a supply electrode 61 , a bearing element 62 as an example of the insulating element and a development electrode 63 on. (2-1) Supply electrode

[0127] As in Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in section 5, this is the supply electrode. 61It is made of a conductive resin material and has a rod-like shape, extending diagonally in one direction between the upper front side and the lower rear side. The supply electrode 61 is integral with a supply-side contact part 64 as an example of the supply-side contact part of the present invention, a coupling part 66 and a supply roller shaft insertion part 65 planned.

[0128] The supply-side contact part 64 is at the upper front end section of the supply electrode 61 arranged. The supply-side contact part 64 It is formed in a rectangular or square cylindrical shape, which has a general right-angled shape in a side view. The supply-side contact part 64It extends in a left-right direction, with the right end closed and the left end open. The right surface of the supply-side contact part. 64 is in a contact surface 67 as an example of the supply contact and a guidance surface 68 subdivided.

[0129] The contact surface 67 forms the upper half of the right surface on the supply-side contact part 64 and is vertically extended.

[0130] The guide surface 68 forms the lower half of the right surface on the supply-side contact part 64 and continuously tilts downwards towards the left of the lower edge of the contact surface 67 .

[0131] The clutch part 66It is formed in a plate shape, which is bent like a lever or a step (crank) and extends diagonally between the upper front side and the lower rear side. More precisely, the coupling part has 66 a first clutch part 69 , a connecting part 70 and a second coupling part 71 on.

[0132] The first clutch part 69 forms the upper front half of the coupling part 66 The first clutch part 69 is formed in a rod-like shape and extends diagonally downwards and backwards from the left edge on the rear side of the supply-side contact part. 64 Here is the upper front end section of the first coupling part. 69 bent to the left to form a step section 72 to form the stage part 72 is vertically extended.

[0133] The connection part70 It has a generally circular shape in a side view and is continuous at the lower rear edge of the first coupling part. 69 provided. The connection part 70 is equipped with a supply-side entry hole 73 educated.

[0134] The supply-side entry hole 73 is formed in a generally circular shape in a side view and penetrates the radial central area of ​​the connecting part. 70 in the left-right direction. The supply-side entry hole. 73 and the connection part 70 They share the common center. The diameter of the supply-side entry hole. 73 is larger than the outer diameter of the part 57 small diameter, which includes the threaded part 51 forms, and is smaller than the outer diameter of the part. 56large diameter. Furthermore, the difference between the diameter of the supply-side entry hole is 73 and the outer diameter of the part 57 small diameter greater than the difference between the inner diameter of the supply roller shaft insertion part 65 and the outer diameter of the supply roller shaft A2.

[0135] The second clutch part 71 It is formed in a curved, rod-like shape. More precisely, the second coupling part extends 71 continuously downwards from the lower edge of the connector 70 and then bends and extends diagonally downwards and backwards along its lower edge. Here the second coupling part bends. 71 in the direction of the left in a vertical center point therein, to form a step section 74 to form the stage part 74It extends in a diagonal direction between the upper rear side and the lower front side.

[0136] The supply roller shaft insertion part 65 is located at the lower rear end section of the supply electrode 61 provided and is continuous with the lower rear edge of the second coupling part 71 formed. The supply roller shaft insertion part. 65 It is formed in a generally cylindrical shape and extends in the left-right direction. The inner diameter of the supply roller shaft insertion part 65 is slightly larger than (approximately equal to) the outer diameter of the supply roller shaft A2. (2-2) Bearing element

[0137] As in Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in 6, the bearing element is 62formed from an insulating resin material in a plate form, which is generally extended at right angles in a side view and diagonally in one direction between the upper front side and the lower rear side. The bearing element 62 is made of a harder material than the supply electrode 61 and the development electrode 63 The bearing element 62 is integral with an insulating part 81 as an example of the contact part, a fastening part 83 and a bearing part 82 planned.

[0138] The insulating part 81 is located at the upper front end section of the bearing element 62 arranged. The insulating part 81 It is formed in a rectangular or square cylindrical shape, which generally has an L-shape in a side view. The insulating part 81It extends in the left-right direction and is closed at the right end. The insulating part 81 has a first insulating part 84 and a second insulating part 85 on.

[0139] The first insulating part 84 forms the front section of the insulating part 81 The first insulating part 84 is formed in a generally rectangular shape in a side view and is extended vertically with a substantial thickness in the front-to-back direction.

[0140] The second insulating part 85 forms the rear section of the insulating part 81 The second insulating part 85 is formed in a generally rectangular shape in a side view and extends continuously backwards from the upper end of the first insulating part. 84 The second insulating part 85It has a significant thickness in the vertical direction. The second insulating part 85 has a top surface 86 , which extends in the front-to-back direction, and a rear surface 87 , which extends continuously in a direction downwards towards the rear of the rear edge of the upper surface on the first insulating part 84 It is angled or bent at an angle. A connecting part 88 , which is between the upper surface 86 and the rear surface 87 The arrangement is formed in a generally arc-shaped form, which curves downwards towards the back.

[0141] The fastening part 83 is formed in a general plate shape, which extends continuously downwards and backwards from the left edge at the rear part of the first insulating part. 84and the left edge at the lower part or bottom part of the second insulating part 85 extends. The fastening part 83 It has a screw insertion hole 89 (indicated by a dashed line in Fig. 3) and a mounting hole on the side of the mounting part 90 formed. The fastening part 83 It also comes with a screw insertion part 91 as an example in the introductory section of the present invention.

[0142] The screw entry hole 89 is in the approximately vertical central area of ​​the bearing element 62 formed. The screw insertion hole 89 It has a generally circular shape in a side view and penetrates the bearing element. 62 in the left-right direction. The screw entry hole 89 has a larger diameter than the diameter of the part 56large diameter and part 57 small diameter, which includes the threaded part 51 form.

[0143] The mounting hole on the side of the mounting part 90 is located on the upper side of the screw insertion hole 89 formed and penetrates in the left-right direction. The mounting-side locating hole 90 is an extended hole whose longitudinal dimension stretches diagonally between the upper front side and the lower rear side. The dimension of the mounting-side locating hole 90 in a diagonal direction between the lower front side and the upper rear side is slightly larger than (approximately equal to) the outer diameter of the positioning projection. 50 .

[0144] The screw insertion part 91is formed in a generally cylindrical shape and points to the right of the circumferential edge of the screw insertion hole. 89 The screw insertion part stands out. 91 shares a central axis with the screw insertion hole 89 The screw insertion part 91 is in conjunction with the screw insertion hole 89 at its left end and has an inner diameter equal to that of the screw insertion hole. 89 The screw insertion part 91 has an inner circumferential surface 92 , on which a thread is not formed.

[0145] The bearing part 82 is connected to the lower rear end of the mounting part 83 connected. The bearing part 82 It is formed in a plate shape, which generally has a rectangular shape in a side view. The bearing part 82 is equipped with a development roller shaft insertion hole 93, a plurality of (two) bearing-side locating holes 95 and a supply roller shaft insertion hole 96 formed. The fastening part 83 It also comes with a supply roller shaft cover part 94 planned.

[0146] The development roller shaft entry hole 93 is located in the approximate vertical central area at the rear end section of the bearing part. 82 formed. The development roller shaft entry hole 93 It has a generally circular shape in a side view and penetrates the bearing part. 82 in the left-right direction. The diameter of the development roller shaft entry hole. 93 is slightly larger than (approximately equal to) the outer diameter of the developing roller shaft A1.

[0147] The bearing-side dowel holes 95 are located on each of the lower rear sides of the development roller shaft entry hole93 and the upper front side of the development roller shaft entry hole 93 provided. The bearing-side locating holes. 95 have a general rectangular shape in a side view. The inner dimensions of the bearing-side dowel holes 95 are slightly larger than (approximately equal to) the outer diameter of the positioning projection 50 .

[0148] The supply roller shaft entry hole 96 is located on the lower front side of the development roller shaft entry hole 93 formed. The supply roller shaft entry hole. 96 It has a generally circular shape in a side view and penetrates in the left-right direction. The inner diameter of the supply roller shaft entry hole 96 is slightly larger than (approximately equal to) the outer diameter of the supply roller shaft A2.

[0149] The supply roller shaft cover part 94 It is formed in a generally cylindrical shape, with the right end being closed. The supply roller shaft cover part. 94 is positioned to the right of the circumferential edge of the supply roller shaft insertion hole 96 protrudes and shares a central axis with the supply roller shaft entry hole 96 The supply roller shaft insertion part 94 is in conjunction with the supply roller shaft entry hole 96 at its left end and has an inner diameter equal to the inner diameter of the supply roller shaft insertion hole 96 . (2-3) Development electrode

[0150] As in Fig. 2 and Fig. As shown in section 3, this is the development electrode. 63Formed in a plate shape, which has a generally rectangular shape in a side view and a longitudinal dimension extending diagonally in one direction between the upper front side and the lower rear side. The development electrode 63 It is made of a conductive resin material. The development electrode 63 is integral with a development-side contact part 101 as an example of the development-side contact part of the present invention, a fastening part 102 and a development roller shaft adapter 103 planned.

[0151] The development-side contact part 101 is at the upper front end of the development electrode 63 arranged. The development-side contact part 101It has a rectangular or square cylindrical shape, which is extended in the left-right direction and closed at the right end, and has a generally rectangular shape in a side view. The right surface of the development-side contact part. 101 forms a contact surface 104 as an example of the development contact of the present invention. The contact surface 104 extends in the front-back and vertical directions.

[0152] The fastening part 102 extends continuously downwards and backwards from the lower end of the development-side contact part 101 The fastening part 102 It has a block-like shape with a left-right dimension equal to that of the development-side contact part. 101 A screw mounting part 106 and an introductory interface 105 are attached to the mounting part102 educated.

[0153] The screw mounting part 106 is a recess which is located in the right surface of the mounting part 100 under the development-side contact part 101 is formed. The screw receptacle part 106 It has a generally rectangular shape in a side view and is open at the lower front. The left-right dimension (depth) of the screw receptacle. 106 is larger than the left-right dimension of the head section of a screw 110 (described later). The internal dimensions of the screw receptacle. 106 are larger than the diameter of the screw head section 110 A developmental introduction gap 107 is also located in the left wall of the screw mounting part. 106 educated.

[0154] The developmental introduction gap 107is formed in a generally circular shape in a side view and penetrates the middle area of ​​the left wall, which is the screw receiving part 106 forms, in the left-right direction. The diameter of the development-side insertion hole. 107 is larger than the outer diameter of the screw insertion part 91 , which is attached to the bearing element 62 is provided for. Furthermore, the difference or discrepancy between the diameter of the development-side entry hole is 107 and the outer diameter of the screw insertion part 91 greater than the difference between the inner diameter of a development roller shaft cover part 108 (described later) and the outer diameter of the developing roller shaft A1.

[0155] The guide surface 105 is the lower rear section of the right surface on the mounting part 102, which is located on the lower rear side of the screw mounting part 106 is positioned. The guide surface 105 It tilts to the left towards the lower rear side.

[0156] The development roller shaft adapter 103 is formed in a general plate shape and extends continuously to the rear from the left end of the fastening part. 102 The development roller shaft adapter 103 is equipped with an insertion hole 109 (indicated by a dashed line in Fig. 3) formed. The development roller shaft adapter. 103 is also included with the development roller shaft cover part 108 planned.

[0157] The entry hole 109 penetrates the development roller shaft fitting 103 at a position below and behind the development-side entry hole 107 The entry hole 109It has a generally circular shape in a side view and penetrates the development roller shaft fitting. 103 in the left-right direction. The diameter of the insertion hole. 109 is slightly larger than (approximately equal to) the outer diameter of the developing roller shaft A1.

[0158] The development roller shaft cover part 108 is formed in a generally cylindrical shape and points to the right of the circumferential edge of the insertion hole. 109 The development roller shaft cover part stands out. 108 shares a central axis with the insertion hole 109 The development roller shaft cover part 108 is in connection with the insertion hole 109 at its left end and has an inner diameter equal to the inner diameter of the insertion hole. 109 . (2-4) Assembled state of the power supply unit relative to the development cartridge frame

[0159] As in Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the supply-side contact part is covered. 64 the increases 53 of the part opposite the supply electrode 52 , and the supply roller shaft insertion part 65 is fitted around the radial outer edge of the supply roller shaft A2. In this way, the supply electrode is 61 on the right wall 44 of the development cartridge frame 25 supported.

[0160] According to this, the supply electrode 61 electrically connected to the supply roller shaft A2.

[0161] Additionally, the part 57 small diameter of the threaded part 51 loosely or loosely into the supply-side entry hole 73 introduced. The amount of play between the supply-side entry hole 73 and that part 57small diameter of the threaded part 51 is the difference between the diameter of the supply-side entry hole 73 and the outer diameter of the part 57 small diameter. Furthermore, the supply-side contact part 64 in comparison with the rear side of the protective wall 54 arranged, the development cartridge frame 25 forming a gap in between. The stepped part 72 of the first clutch part 69 is located on the rear side of the part opposite the supply electrode. 52 , which the development cartridge frame 25 forms, arranged. Furthermore, the step section is 74 of the second coupling part in the upper front side of the supply roller shaft exposure hole 48 arranged.

[0162] As in Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in 6, the bearing element is 62on the right wall 44 of the development cartridge frame 25 supported while it formed the right sides of the supply roller shaft insertion part 65 and the clutch part 66 the supply electrode 61 overlapping in the left-right direction.

[0163] The development roller shaft A1 is inserted through the development roller shaft insertion hole. 93 also introduced in a rotatable manner. The positioning advantage 50 , which is located on the lower rear side of the development roller shaft exposure hole 49 is positioned in the fitting hole on the bearing part side 95 , which is located on the lower rear side of the development roller shaft entry hole 93 It is intended to be fitted in. The positioning advantage 50 , which is located on the upper front side of the development roller shaft exposure hole 49 It is intended to be inserted into the fitting hole on the bearing part side. 95, which is located on the upper front side of the development roller shaft entry hole 93 It is intended to be fitted.

[0164] In this way the bearing element 62 relative to the development cartridge frame 25 positions and supports the development roller 34 rotatable.

[0165] Furthermore, the supply roller shaft A2 is rotatable in the supply roller shaft cover part. 94 fitted. The positioning advantage 50 , which is above the threaded part 51 is arranged in the locating hole on the mounting part side 90 fitted.

[0166] As in Fig. 6 and Fig. As shown in section 8, this is the insulating part. 81 arranged so that it is on the rear side of the supply-side contact part 64 , which is the supply electrode 61It forms a front-to-back arrangement with a gap in between. The first insulating part 84 protrudes to the right in such a way that its right surface is further to the right than the contact surface. 67 of the supply-side contact part 64 .

[0167] As in Fig. 6 and Fig. The screw insertion part shown in section 7 is... 91 in comparison with the right end of the threaded part 51 arranged, wherein the left surface of the screw insertion part 91 the right surface of the threaded part 51 Touched from the right side. Internal spaces in the screw insertion part. 91 and the threaded part 51 are connected to each other in the left-right direction.

[0168] As in Fig. 2 and Fig. As shown in section 3, this is the development electrode. 63at the bearing element 62 by fitting the development roller shaft cover part 108 supported around the development roller shaft A1, so that the development electrode 63 the fastening part 83 and the upper half of the bearing part 82 overlapping from the right side.

[0169] According to this, the development electrode 63 electrically connected to the developing roller shaft A1 and from the supply electrode 61 isolated.

[0170] The development electrode is particularly special. 63 on the right side of the supply electrode 61 with the bearing element 62 It is positioned between the left and right directions. In other words, the development electrode 63 the right side of the supply electrode 61 with a gap between them opposite each other and the bearing element 62 is between the supply electrode61 and the development electrode 63 arranged.

[0171] As in Fig. 2 and Fig. As shown in section 8, this is the development-side contact part. 101 the development electrode 63 on the rear side of the first insulating part 84 and under the second insulating part 85 planned. More precisely, the development-side contact part. 101 from the first insulating part 84 separated in the front-back direction and opposite each other, but vertically separated from the second insulating part. 85 .

[0172] Furthermore, the first insulating part 84 of the bearing element 62 between the contact surface 104 the development electrode 63 and the contact surface 67 the supply electrode 61 arranged. The first insulating part 84protrudes further to the right than the contact surface 104 the development electrode 63 and the contact surface 67 the supply electrode 61 .

[0173] As in Fig. The screw insertion part shown in section 7 is... 91 into the developmental introduction gap 107 Introduced with the game. The game amount between the development-related introduction hole. 107 and the screw insertion part 91 is the difference between the diameter of the development-side insertion hole 107 and the outer diameter of the screw insertion part 91 Furthermore, the right end (outer left-right end) of the screw insertion part is... 91 slightly to the right (outside in the left-right direction of) the left wall (inner left-right wall) of the screw receptacle 106 stand out.

[0174] In this way the bearing element 62 between the supply electrode 61 and the development electrode 63 positioned in between and insulates the supply electrode 61 and the development electrode 63 from each other.

[0175] The supply electrode 61 , the bearing element 62 and the development electrode 63 are attached to the development cartridge frame 25 through a common screw 110 attached.

[0176] More precisely, the screw 110 through the screw insertion part 91 inserted and into the threaded part 51 of the development cartridge frame 25 screwed in such a way that the right half of its shaft is in the screw insertion part 91 is absorbed, and the left half of its shaft into the threaded part 51It is screwed in. Furthermore, the bearing surface of the screw is 110 in contact with the right end of the screw insertion part 91 from the right side of it.

[0177] In other words, the screw 110 only in contact with the screw insertion part 91 and the threaded part 51 and touches the development electrode 63 and the supply electrode 61 not.

[0178] The right side of the screw head 110 is near (slightly to the left of) the contact surface 104 of the development-side contact part 101 positioned. 3. Drum cartridge.

[0179] As in Fig. The drum cartridge shown in 9 is... 18 with a drum recording section 121 , which is the light-sensitive drum 20 records, and a cartridge assembly section 122provided for, in which the development cartridge 19 appropriate.

[0180] In the following description of the drum cartridge 18 Directions will be directed towards the drum cartridge 18 are based on the orientation of the drum cartridge 18 will be specified when it rests on a flat surface, and they will refer in particular to the directions indicated by arrows in Fig. 9 are displayed. This means that the up, down, front, and back directions refer to the drum cartridge. 18 slightly off from the top, bottom, front and back directions relative to the printer 1 differ. If the drum cartridge 18 in the printer 1 When mounted, the rear side of the drum cartridge is 18 the upper rear side of the printer 1 facing, and the front side of the drum cartridge 18is the lower front side of the printer 1 facing.

[0181] The drum recording section 121 is in the rear area of ​​the drum cartridge 18 planned. The drum mounting section 121 It has a generally cylindrical shape, which is extended in the left-right direction.

[0182] It should be noted that the light-sensitive drum 20 is provided with a drum shaft A3 which runs along the central axis of the light-sensitive drum 20 extends in the left-right direction. The light-sensitive drum 20 It is rotatable in the left and right side wall of the drum mounting section. 121 supported by the corresponding left and right ends of the drum shaft A3. The left and right ends of the drum shaft A3 penetrate the side walls of the drum mounting section. 121and protrude outwards in respective left and right directions.

[0183] The transfer roller 21 and the Scorotron charger 22 , which are described above, are also in the drum mounting section 121 supported.

[0184] The drum recording section 122 extends continuously forward from the lower end of the drum mounting section 121 The drum assembly section 122 It is a frame-like structure with a closed bottom and an open top. 4. Main case

[0185] As in phantom representation in Fig. 10 is displayed, indicating a device-side development electrode. 116 and a device-side supply electrode 117 provided on the inner right wall of the main housing. The device-side development electrode 116is an example of the external development electrode and the device-side supply electrode 117 This is an example of an external supply electrode.

[0186] Directions relating to the process cartridge 15 refer to, are based on the orientation of the process cartridge 15 , if the process cartridge 15 in the printer 1 is mounted and the printer 1 resting on a flat surface, they will be specified and will focus particularly on the directions indicated by arrows in Fig. 10 are displayed.

[0187] The device-side development electrode 116 is located in the rear section of the main casing 2 is designed and positioned so that it forms the contact surface 104 of the development-side contact part 101 touched when the process cartridge 15 completely within the main housing 2is mounted. The device-side development electrode 116 It can be offset in the left and right directions and is constantly pushed or pressed to the left. The device-side development electrode 116 It is electrically connected to a power supply (not shown) located in the main housing 2 is intended to be connected.

[0188] The device-side supply electrode 117 is located on the front side of the device-side development electrode 116 in the rear section of the main casing 2 designed and is positioned so that it forms the contact surface 67 of the supply-side contact part 64 contacted when the process cartridge 15 completely within the main housing 2 is mounted or attached. The device-side supply electrode 117It can be offset in the left and right directions and is constantly pushed or pressed to the left. The device-side supply electrode 117 is electrically connected to the power supply (not shown) in the main housing 2 tied together. 5. Mounting the developing cartridge in the main housing (1) Mounting the developing cartridge in the drum cartridge

[0189] To the development cartridge 19 in the main case 2 To assemble, the development cartridge is installed first. 19 in the drum cartridge 18 assembled.

[0190] To the development cartridge 19 in the drum cartridge 18 To assemble, the operator first guides the rear end of the development cartridge. 19 downwards into the rear end of the cartridge assembly section 122 one, as in Fig. Figure 9 illustrates this.

[0191] Next, the operator rotates the front end of the developing cartridge. 19 backwards and forwards around the rear end of the development cartridge 19 , as indicated by the arrow in Fig. 9 is displayed while it is at the rear end of the development cartridge 19 towards the drum mounting section 121 the drum cartridge 18 presses.

[0192] This operation brings the rear end of the second insulating part into contact with it. 85 (the connecting part) 88 to connect the upper surface 86 and the rear surface 87 ), which is the bearing element 62 forms, at the rear end of the development cartridge 19 the right end of the drum recording section 121 from the front side of it.

[0193] Next, the operator rotates the development cartridge. 19counterclockwise in a right-hand side view around the rear end of the second insulating part 85 (of the connecting part) 88 ). Accordingly, the rear end of the second insulating part functions 85 (the connecting part) 88 ) as a guide part for guiding the assembly of the development cartridge 19 in the drum cartridge 18 .

[0194] If the front end of the developing cartridge 19 in the front area of ​​the cartridge assembly section 122 The process of mounting the developing cartridge is recorded. 19 completed in the drum cartridge and the process cartridge 15 is educated (see Fig. 10).

[0195] To the development cartridge 19 from the drum cartridge 18 To remove it, the assembly operation described above is performed in reverse on the development cartridge. 19and the drum cartridge 18 carried out.

[0196] This means that the operator controls the front end of the development cartridge. 19 upwards and backwards around the rear end of the development cartridge 19 turns and subsequently the operator the development cartridge 19 lifts upwards and the development cartridge 19 from the drum cartridge 18 removed.

[0197] During this removal operation, the rear end of the second insulating part touches 85 (the connecting part) 88 ) the right end of the drum mounting section 121 on the front side at a point in the rotation of the development cartridge 19 .

[0198] After the rear end of the second insulating part 85 (the connecting part) 88 ) the drum recording section 121 When touched, the development cartridge rotates. 19clockwise in a right-hand side view around the rear end of the second insulating part (the connecting part) 88 ). Accordingly, the rear end of the second insulating part leads 5 (the connecting part) 88 ) the removal of the developing cartridge 19 from the drum cartridge 18 . (2) Mounting the process cartridge in the main housing

[0199] To the development cartridge 19 in the main case 2 The next step in the assembly process is the process cartridge. 15 in the main case 2 assembled.

[0200] To the process cartridge 15 in the main case 2 To assemble, the operator first places the top cover. 7 of the main casing 2 into the open position, as in Fig. 1 is illustrated and described above.

[0201] Next, the operator grasps the front end of the process cartridge. 15 and guides the process cartridge 15 into the main case 2 one, so that the left and right ends of the drum shaft A3 are in the light-sensitive drum 20 into the guide parts 37 are fitted into the main housing.

[0202] Next, the operator presses the process cartridge. 15 diagonally downwards and backwards along the guide parts 37 and rotates the process cartridge 15 The following is a counterclockwise view around the drum shaft A3 of the light-sensitive drum, in a right-hand view. 20 .

[0203] Just before the process cartridge 15 completely within the main housing 2 is installed when the operator continues, the process cartridge 15 To rotate, it contacts or touches the device-side development electrode. 116inside the main casing 2 from the lower rear side of the guide surface 105 on the mounting part 102 , and the device-side supply electrode 117 inside the main casing 2 touches the guide surface 68 at the supply-side contact part 64 from underneath.

[0204] It should be noted that the development-side contact part 101 at this time moves slightly forward by an amount equivalent to the play between the developmental electrode 63 and the development roller shaft A1 and then the first insulating part 84 of the bearing element 62 touches. This contact prevents the development roller shaft cover part from moving. 108 moved further forward.

[0205] The supply-side contact part 64also moves slightly upwards and forwards by an amount equivalent to the play between the supply electrode 61 and the supply roller shaft A2 and is in contrast to the protective wall 54 of the development cartridge frame 25 arranged with a slight gap formed between the two in the front-to-back direction.

[0206] As if through a dotted line in Fig. When 10 is displayed, the device-side development electrode is activated. 116 subsequently shifted to the right against the force which pushes it to the left, when the device-side development electrode 116 along the inclination of the guide surface 105 in one direction diagonally upwards and forwards relative to the guide surface 105 slides. Then the device-side development electrode slides. 116 diagonally upwards and forwards relative to the screw110 and comes into contact with the contact surface 104 above the right side surface on the head of the screw 110 Since the right surface is on the head of the screw 110 in the vicinity of (slightly to the left of) the contact surface 104 of the device-side contact part 101 is arranged as described above (see Fig. 7) the device-side development electrode slides 116 calmly over the right surface on the head of the screw 110 while they are on the contact surface 104 at this time touched without being in the screw receiving part 106 to be captured.

[0207] This contact connects the device-side development electrode 116 and the development electrode 63 electrically connected.

[0208] Similarly, the device-side supply electrode 117to the right against the force which pushes it to the left, shifted or offset while along the incline of the guide surface 68 in an upward direction relative to the guide surface 68 slides until it comes into contact with the contact surface 67 This contact connects to the device's supply electrode. 117 electrically connected to the supply electrode 61 tied together.

[0209] The process cartridge 15 is completely within the main housing 2 mounted when the drum shaft A3 of the photosensitive drum 20 in the rear ends of the guide parts 37 is arranged and the front end of the process cartridge 15 is positioned below the path of incidence of the laser beam L, as shown in Fig. 1 is illustrated.

[0210] The operator then places the top cover. 7of the main casing 2 in the closed position.

[0211] If the printer 1 When activated, power is drawn from a power supply (not shown) in the main housing. 2 the development roller shafts A1 subsequently via the device-side development electrode 116 and the development electrode 63 and the supply roller shaft A2 subsequently via the device-side supply electrode 117 and the supply electrode 61 supplied.

[0212] To the process cartridge 15 from the main case 2 To remove it, the operation is to mount the process cartridge. 115 , which is described above, conversely on the process cartridge 15 and the main case 2 carried out.

[0213] This means that after the top cover 7placed in the open position, the process cartridge 15 is pulled diagonally upwards and forwards. 6. Operational advantages (1) In the development cartridge 19 , which is described above, is the bearing element 62 between the development electrode 63 and the supply electrode 61 arranged in the left-right direction, as in Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 3 illustrates this. Therefore, the development electrode can be used 63 and the supply electrode 61 They can be isolated from each other without being separated in the front-to-back direction. In other words, the development electrode can be isolated from each other without being separated in the front-to-back direction. 63 and the supply electrode 61 They should be arranged in a front-to-back direction, adjacent to each other.

[0214] As a result, the development cartridge 19They should be manufactured more compactly, at least in the front-to-back direction, while ensuring that the development electrode 63 and the supply electrode 61 are reliably isolated from each other. (2) As in Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in 6, the bearing element 62 , which functions to control the development roller 34 to support, also to insulate the developing electrode 63 and the supply electrode 61 used.

[0215] Since this design does not include a separate element for use in insulating the developing electrode 63 and the supply electrode 61 If needed, the total number of parts can be reduced. (3) As in Fig. As shown in 2, the movement of the development electrode can be observed. 63 through contact between the development-side contact part 101 the development electrode 63and the insulating part 81 of the bearing element 62 can be restricted. Similarly, the movement of the supply electrode can be limited. 61 through a contact between the supply-side contact part 64 the supply electrode 61 and the insulating part 81 of the bearing element 62 be restricted.

[0216] Therefore, the bearing element 62 can be used to restrict the movement of both the supply electrode and the supply electrode. 61 as well as the development electrode 63 can be used, thereby reducing the number of parts required. Furthermore, the bearing element can 62 reliably the development electrode 63 and the supply electrode 61 by restricting the movement of the developing electrode 63 and the supply electrode 61 isolate. (4) As in Fig. As shown in section 8, the bearing element has 62the first insulating part 84 between the contact surface 104 of the development-side contact part 101 and the contact surface 67 of the supply-side contact part 64 arranged and extends further to the right than the contact surface 104 and the contact surface 67 .

[0217] Accordingly, the first insulating part 84 reliably between the contact surface 104 of the development-side contact part 101 and the contact surface 67 of the supply-side contact part 64 be positioned. This configuration ensures a significantly greater isolation distance than an arrangement in which the first insulating part 84 to the right (outside in the left-right direction) by the same length as the development-side contact part 101 and the supply-side contact part 64 expands.

[0218] Therefore, this configuration can reliably control the contact surface 104 of the development-side contact part 101 from the contact surface 67 of the supply-side contact part 64 isolate. (5) As in Fig. As shown in 7, the development electrode 63 , the bearing element 62 and the supply electrode 61 all on the right wall 44 of the development cartridge frame 25 fastened by a common screw.

[0219] According to this, the development electrode 63 , the bearing element 62 and the supply electrode 61 on the right wall of the developing cartridge frame 25 They can be attached while using fewer parts. (6) As in Fig. As shown in 7, the screw can 110 into the threaded part 51of the development cartridge frame 25 are screwed in while passing through the screw insertion part 91 of the bearing element 62 is enclosed.

[0220] Therefore, this design can prevent the screw shaft from 110 , which is through the screw insertion part 91 (right half) is inserted, and the shaft of the screw 110 , which is in the threaded part 51 (left half) is screwed in, the development electrode 63 and the supply electrode 61 touched.

[0221] This design reliably prevents electricity from passing between the development electrode and the development electrode. 63 and the supply electrode 61 through the screw 110 is being managed. (7) According to the development cartridge described above 19 touches the screw 110 only the screw insertion part91 and the threaded part 51 and does not contact the development electrode 63 and the supply electrode 61 .

[0222] Therefore, this design can reliably prevent the screw from 110 the development electrode 63 and the supply electrode 61 touched.

[0223] Therefore, this design can prevent electricity from passing between the development electrode and the development electrode. 63 and the supply electrode 61 about the screw 110 is being managed. (8) As in Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in 7, the screw can 110 through the screw insertion part 91 , which is due to the developmental introduction gap 107 , which is in the development electrode 63 is formed, is introduced, will be introduced.

[0224] Therefore, the screw insertion part91 between the screw 110 and the perimeter of the developmental insertion hole 107 positioned in between, whereby the development electrode 63 and the screw 110 be isolated from each other.

[0225] Furthermore, since the screw insertion part 91 has a cylindrical shape which is extended in the left-right direction, the screw insertion part 91 an isolated state between the development electrode 63 and the screw 110 Ensure in the left-right direction. (9) As in Fig. 5 and Fig. As shown in 7, the screw can be inserted into the threaded part. 51 to be screwed into the supply-side entry hole 73 , which is in the supply electrode 61 is formed, is introduced.

[0226] Accordingly, the threaded part51 between the screw 110 and the circumferential edge of the supply-side entry hole 73 positioned in between, whereby the supply electrode 61 and the screw 110 be isolated from each other.

[0227] Furthermore, since the threaded part 51 has a cylindrical shape which is extended in the left-right direction, the threaded part 51 an insulating state between the supply electrode 61 and the screw 110 Ensure along a direction orthogonal to the left-right direction. (10) As in Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in section 6, the bearing element has 62 the bearing part 82 , which is separate from the screw insertion part 91 is intended for the rotatable support of the development roller shaft A1.

[0228] Therefore, this design can be used as the bearing element. 62 Position with respect to the development roller shaft A1.

[0229] By positioning the development electrode 63 relative to the bearing element 62 can the bearing element 62 good precision in positioning the development electrode 63 relative to the development roller 34 ensure.

[0230] Accordingly, this design can ensure that electricity is supplied between the developing roller shaft A1 and the developing electrode. 63 is being managed. (11) As in Fig. 6 and Fig. As shown in 7, this is the inner diameter of the screw insertion part. 91 larger than the inner diameter of the threaded part 51 .

[0231] Therefore, if the screw insertion part 91 and the supply electrode 61are aligned with each other, the threaded part 51 easily seen in a plane orthogonal to the left-right direction.

[0232] Therefore, the screw can 110 easily into the threaded part 51 through the screw insertion part 91 to be screwed in. (12) As in Fig. As shown in 9, the rear end of the second insulating part can be 85 (the connecting part) 88 to connect the upper surface 86 with the rear surface 87 ), which is the bearing element 62 forms, are used to assemble the development cartridge 19 in the drum cartridge 18 to facilitate. In other words, the development cartridge can 19 easily fits in the drum cartridge 18 using the bearing element 62to be mounted, which is made of a harder material than the development-side contact part. 101 and the supply-side contact part 64 . 7. Modification of the embodiment (1) A modification of the development cartridge 19 will be discussed next with reference to Fig. 11 will be described. It should be noted that directions relating to the development cartridge 19 refer to, based on the orientation of the development cartridge 19 can be specified when it rests on a flat surface, and in particular based on the directions indicated by arrows in Fig. 11 are displayed.

[0233] As in Fig. As shown in 11, the development cartridge 19 , which is described above, are placed on a horizontal surface H such that the front end of the developing cartridge 19is separated from the horizontal surface H.

[0234] At this time, the rear end of the floor wall or lower wall is 46 (the section of the floor wall 46 , which is behind the supply roller 33 is arranged) in contact with the horizontal surface H.

[0235] To the development cartridge 19 To lift it, the operator grasps the front end of the development cartridge. 19 and lifts the development cartridge 19 up. (2) The printer 1 The above-described image-generating device is an example of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above.

[0236] In addition to the monochrome printer described above, the image-generating device of the present invention can be configured as a color printer.

[0237] When configured as a color printer, the image-generating device can be configured as a direct tandem color printer, which is provided with a plurality of photosensitive bodies and a recording media transport element; or it can be configured as an intermediate or intermediate transfer tandem color printer, which is provided with a plurality of photosensitive bodies, an intermediate transfer body and a transfer element.

[0238] In addition to the separable process cartridge 15 , which allows the drum cartridge 18 and the development cartridge 19 The process cartridge can be separated from each other as described above.15 be an integrated unit in which the drum cartridge 18 and the development cartridge 19 are integrally provided for.

[0239] It is also possible to use the light-sensitive drum 20 in the main case 2 to provide for, while enabling only the development cartridge 19 in the main case 2 is mounted and removed from this.

[0240] Furthermore, instead of the light-sensitive drum 20 , which is described above, a light-sensitive band or an element other than the light-sensitive body may be used.

[0241] Similarly, instead of the development roller 34 , which is described above, a developing cylinder, a developing belt, a brush roller or a device other than the developer carrier may be used.

[0242] Furthermore, instead of the supply roller 33 , which is described above, a supply cylinder, a supply belt, a brush roller or an element other than the supply element may be used.

[0243] Furthermore, instead of the agitator, 29 , which is described above, a screw conveyor, a conveyor belt or an element other than the transport element may be used.

[0244] Furthermore, instead of the transfer roller 21 , which is described above, a contact-type transfer element such as a transfer belt, a transfer brush, a transfer blade and a foil-like transfer device or a non-contact-type transfer element such as a Corotron-type transfer element may be used as the transfer element.

[0245] Furthermore, instead of the Scorotron charger, 22, which is described above, a non-contact type charger such as a Corotron type charger and a charger which is provided with a sawtooth discharge element, or a contact type charger such as a charging roller as the charger may be used.

[0246] Furthermore, instead of the scanning unit, 16 , which is described above, an LED unit or the like may be used as the exposure element.

[0247] The image-generating device of the present invention can also be configured as a multifunctional peripheral device equipped with an image-reading unit and the like.

[0248] During the development electrode 63 The development electrode, which is formed from a conductive resin material as described above, can be used. 63instead, it should be made of a metal. The supply electrode 61 It can be similarly formed from a metal.

[0249] While the bearing element 62 , which is described above and is made of an insulating resin material, can be used as the bearing element 62 instead, it may be made of insulating rubber. Furthermore, while the bearing element 62 , which is described above, rotatably supports both the development roller shaft A1 and the supply roller shaft A2, the bearing element 62 be configured to support only one of these shafts in a rotatable manner.

[0250] Conductive grease can be applied between the supply roller shaft insertion part. 65 and added to the supply roller shaft A2, and between the introduction hole 109 and the development roller shaft A1. Reference symbol list 18 drum cartridges 19 development cartridge 25 Development framework 33 Supply roller 34 Development roller 51 Threaded part 61 Supply electrode 62 Bearing element 63 Development electrode 64 supply-side contact part 67 Contact surface 73 supply-side entry hole 81 insulating part 82 Bearing part 88 Connecting part 91 Screw insertion part 101 development-side contact part 104 Contact surface 107 developmental introduction gap 110 screw 116 Device-side development electrode 117 Device-side supply electrode

Claims

[1] Development cartridge which includes the following: a case ( 25 ), which is configured to accommodate developers; a developer support element ( 34 ), which is configured to rotate about a rotational axis (A1) extending in an axial direction and to carry the developer on it; a supply element ( 33 ), which is configured to direct the developer to the developer carrier element ( 34 ); a development electrode ( 63 ), which is configured to be electrically connected to the developer support element ( 34 ) is connected; a supply electrode ( 61 ), which is configured to be electrically connected to the supply element ( 33 ) is connected; and an insulating element ( 62 ), which is the development electrode ( 63 ) and the supply electrode (61 ) isolated from each other, where the development electrode ( 63 ), the insulating element ( 62 ) and the supply electrode ( 62 ) overlap in this order in the axial direction. [2] Development cartridge which includes the following: a case ( 25 ), which is configured to accommodate developers; a developer support element ( 34 ), which is configured to rotate about a rotational axis (A1) extending in an axial direction and to carry the developer on it; a supply element ( 33 ), which is configured to direct the developer to the developer carrier element ( 34 ); a development electrode ( 63 ), which is configured to be electrically connected to the developer support element ( 34 ) is connected; a supply electrode ( 61), which is configured to be electrically connected to the supply element ( 33 ) is connected and which is arranged so that it is connected to the development electrode ( 61 ) in the axial direction with a gap in between; and an insulating element ( 62 ), which is the development electrode ( 63 ) and the supply electrode ( 61 ) isolated from each other and between the development electrode ( 63 ) and the supply electrode ( 61 ) is arranged. [3] Development cartridge according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the insulating element ( 62 ) as a bearing element ( 62 ) functions, which is configured to include at least one of the developer carrier elements ( 34 ) and the supply element ( 33 ) rotatably supported. [4] Development cartridge according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the development electrode ( 63) a development-side contact part ( 101 ) exhibits, which extends in the axial direction, and where the supply electrode ( 61 ) a supply-side contact part ( 64 ) exhibits, which extends in the axial direction, and where the insulating element ( 62 ) a contact part ( 81 ) has a feature extending in the axial direction and is configured to form the development-side contact part ( 101 ) and the supply-side contact part ( 64 ) touched. [5] Development cartridge according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the development electrode ( 63 ) a development contact ( 104 ) which is configured to have an external development electrode ( 116 ) contacted, where the supply electrode ( 61 ) a supply contact ( 67) which is configured to accommodate an external supply electrode ( 117 ) to contact, and whereby the supply contact ( 67 ) is arranged in such a way that it facilitates developmental contact ( 104 ) with a gap in between, where the insulating element ( 62 ) an insulating part ( 81 ) exhibits, which between the developmental contact ( 104 ) and the supply contact ( 67 ) is arranged, wherein the insulating part ( 81 ) extends further outwards than the development contact ( 104 ) and the supply contact ( 67 ). [6] Development cartridge according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a screw ( 110 ) for jointly attaching the development electrode ( 63 ), of the insulating element ( 62 ) and the supply electrode ( 61 ) on the casing ( 25 ). [7] Development cartridge according to claim 6, wherein the insulating element ( 62 ) an introductory section ( 91 ) has in which the screw ( 110 ) is introduced, with the housing ( 25 ) a part with a thread ( 51 ) has in which the screw ( 110 ) is screwed on. [8] Development cartridge according to claim 7, wherein the screw ( 110 ) in contact with the introductory section ( 91 ) and the threaded part ( 51 ), however, away from the developing electrode ( 63 ) and the supply electrode ( 61 ) is. [9] Development cartridge according to claim 7, wherein the introductory section ( 91 ) has a cylindrical shape extending in the axial direction, wherein the development electrode ( 63 ) with a developmental introduction gap ( 107) is formed, into which the introductory section ( 91 ) is introduced. [10] Development cartridge according to claim 7, wherein the threaded part ( 51 ) has a cylindrical shape extending in the axial direction, wherein the supply electrode ( 61 ) with a supply-side entry hole ( 73 ) is formed, into which the threaded part ( 51 ) is introduced. [11] Development cartridge according to claim 7, wherein the insulating element ( 62 ) regardless of the introductory section ( 91 ) a bearing part ( 82 ) has, wherein the bearing part ( 82 ) the developer support element ( 34 ) rotatably supported. [12] Development cartridge according to claim 7, wherein the introductory section ( 91 ) has an inner diameter that is larger than the inner diameter of the threaded part ( 51 ). [13] Development cartridge according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the insulating element ( 62 ) a guide section ( 88 ) which is configured to allow the development cartridge to be attached relative to an external device.