Image forming apparatus

Abstract

To provide an image forming apparatus that can stably supply toner from a first toner cartridge not moving relative to a first photoconductor drum to a first developer housing movable relative to the first photoconductor drum, while preventing leakage of toner.SOLUTION: In an image forming apparatus, a drum cartridge 5Y has a photoconductor drum 51Y, and a toner cartridge is connected with the drum cartridge 5Y. The drum cartridge 5Y has a first frame 55A, a second frame, a third frame 55C, and a seal member 59. The third frame 55C has a first passage port. Toner from the toner cartridge can pass through the first passage port. The third frame 55C does not move relative to the photoconductor drum 51Y. A developer housing 53Y is movable relative to the photoconductor drum 51Y. The seal member 59 seals a space between the developer housing 53Y and the third frame. The seal member 59 is separate from the first passage port and is located around the first passage port.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an image forming apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art There is known an image forming apparatus that includes a main body housing, a drum cartridge, and a toner cartridge (see Patent Document 1 below).

[0003] In the image forming device described in Patent Document 1, the drum cartridge includes a photosensitive drum, a drum frame, a developing housing, and a developing roller. The toner cartridge is capable of containing toner. The photosensitive drum is rotatably supported by the drum frame. The developing housing is supported by the drum frame. The developing roller is supported by the developing housing and is capable of supplying toner in the developing housing to the photosensitive drum. The developing housing has a support portion capable of supporting the toner cartridge. The developing housing has an receiving port. With the toner cartridge supported by the support portion, toner from the toner cartridge can pass through the receiving port. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2008-176215 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In the image forming apparatus described in Patent Document 1, in order to keep the pressing force of the developing roller against the photosensitive drum constant, it is sometimes desirable to configure the developing casing supporting the developing roller to be movable relative to the photosensitive drum.

[0006] However, in the image forming apparatus described in Patent Document 1, since the developing housing supports the toner cartridge, the weight of the toner cartridge may make it difficult for the developing housing to move relative to the photosensitive drum.

[0007] In view of this, a configuration has been considered in which the toner cartridge is not moved relative to the photosensitive drum, but only the developing housing is movable relative to the photosensitive drum.

[0008] In this case, it is necessary to stably supply toner from a toner cartridge that does not move relative to the photosensitive drum to a developing housing that can move relative to the photosensitive drum while suppressing toner leakage.

[0009] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide an image forming device that can stably supply toner from a first toner cartridge that does not move relative to the first photosensitive drum to a first developing housing that can move relative to the first photosensitive drum while suppressing toner leakage. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] (1) The image forming apparatus of the present disclosure includes a main body housing, a first drum cartridge, a second drum cartridge, a first toner cartridge, and a second toner cartridge.

[0011] The first drum cartridge has a first photosensitive drum. The first photosensitive drum is rotatable about a first shaft. The first shaft extends in a first direction. The first drum cartridge is detachably attached to the main body housing.

[0012] The second drum cartridge has a second photosensitive drum. The second photosensitive drum is rotatable about a second axis. The second axis extends in a first direction. The second drum cartridge is detachable from the main body housing. When the first drum cartridge and the second drum cartridge are attached to the main body housing, the second drum cartridge is aligned with the first drum cartridge in the second direction. The second direction intersects with the first direction.

[0013] The first toner cartridge is capable of storing toner. The first toner cartridge is coupled to the first drum cartridge in a third direction. The third direction intersects with both the first direction and the second direction.

[0014] The second toner cartridge is capable of containing toner and is connected to the second drum cartridge in the third direction.

[0015] The first drum cartridge includes a first frame, a second frame, a third frame, a first developing casing, and a sealing member.

[0016] The first frame supports one end of the first photosensitive drum in the first direction.

[0017] The second frame supports the other end of the first photosensitive drum in the first direction.

[0018] The third frame has a first passage opening through which toner from the first toner cartridge can pass. The third frame does not move relative to the first photosensitive drum.

[0019] The first developing housing is capable of storing the toner that has passed through the first passage opening. The first developing housing is capable of moving relative to the first photosensitive drum.

[0020] The seal member provides a seal between the first developing housing and the third frame, The seal member is located around the first passage opening and away from the first passage opening.

[0021] According to this configuration, the seal member is located around the first passage opening and away from the first passage opening.

[0022] Therefore, the toner supplied from the first toner cartridge through the first passage opening into the first developing housing can be reduced in contact with the seal member.

[0023] This makes it possible to prevent the flow of toner from the first toner cartridge toward the first developing casing from being blocked by the seal member.

[0024] As a result, toner can be stably supplied from the first toner cartridge, which does not move relative to the first photosensitive drum, to the first developing housing, while suppressing toner leakage between the developing housing, which is movable relative to the first photosensitive drum, and the third frame. (2) The third direction may be a vertical direction. When the first toner cartridge is connected to the first drum cartridge, the first toner cartridge may be located above the first drum cartridge. (3) The first toner cartridge may have a discharge port through which the toner can be discharged. When the first toner cartridge is connected to the first drum cartridge, the discharge port communicates with the first passage port in the second direction.

[0025] According to this configuration, the toner can be smoothly supplied from the first toner cartridge to the first developing housing. (4) The first toner cartridge may further have a receiving opening. The receiving opening is located away from the discharge opening in the first direction. When the first toner cartridge is connected to the first drum cartridge, the receiving opening is capable of receiving the toner from the first developing housing.

[0026] The third frame may further have a second passage opening. The second passage opening is located away from the first passage opening in the first direction. When the first toner cartridge is connected to the first drum cartridge, the second passage opening communicates with the receiving port in the second direction. When the first toner cartridge is connected to the first drum cartridge, toner from the first developing housing can pass through the second passage opening.

[0027] According to this configuration, the toner in the first developing housing can be returned to the first toner cartridge through the second passage opening. This allows the toner to circulate between the first developing housing and the first toner cartridge. As a result, the toner can be prevented from accumulating in the first developing housing. (5) The first drum cartridge may further include a first transport member that is capable of transporting toner in the first developing housing from the first passage opening toward the second passage opening.

[0028] The first toner cartridge may further include a second transport member. The second transport member is capable of transporting the toner in the first toner cartridge from the receiving opening toward the discharging opening. (6) In a state in which the first toner cartridge is connected to the first drum cartridge, the second conveying member may be aligned with the first conveying member in the second direction.

[0029] According to this configuration, the toner can be smoothly circulated between the first developing housing and the first toner cartridge. (7) The main body housing may have an opening. The opening is located at one end of the main body housing in the second direction. The image forming apparatus may further have a drawer. The drawer is movable in the second direction between an inner position and an outer position through the opening. When the drawer is located at the inner position, the drawer is located inside the main body housing. When the drawer is located at the outer position, the drawer is located outside the main body housing.

[0030] The first drum cartridge and the second drum cartridge are supported by the drawer. (8) The first toner cartridge may have a toner housing, a toner shutter, a lever, and a rotating member. The toner housing has an outlet. The toner housing is capable of containing toner. The toner shutter is movable between a toner closed position and a toner open position. When the toner shutter is positioned at the toner closed position, the toner shutter closes the outlet. When the toner shutter is positioned at the toner open position, the outlet opens. The lever has a first gear. The lever is movable between a first position and a second position. The rotating member has a second gear. The second gear meshes with the first gear. The rotating member is capable of rotating in association with movement of the lever. The rotating member is independent of the toner shutter.

[0031] The first drum cartridge may further include a developing shutter and an engaging member. The developing shutter is supported by the third frame. The developing shutter is movable between a developing closed position and a developing open position. When the developing shutter is positioned at the developing closed position, the developing shutter closes the first passage opening. When the developing shutter is positioned at the developing open position, the first passage opening opens. The engaging member is connected to the developing shutter. When the first toner cartridge is connected to the first drum cartridge, the engaging member engages with the rotating member.

[0032] When the first toner cartridge is connected to the first drum cartridge, the developing shutter becomes movable together with the toner shutter. When the first toner cartridge is connected to the first drum cartridge, the developing shutter moves from the developing open position to the developing closed position in accordance with the movement of the lever from the first position to the second position. When the first toner cartridge is connected to the first drum cartridge, the developing shutter moves from the developing closed position to the developing open position in accordance with the movement of the lever from the second position to the first position.

[0033] According to this configuration, the discharge port and the first passage port can be closed by a single operation of moving the lever from the first position to the second position, and the discharge port and the first passage port can be opened by a single operation of moving the lever from the second position to the first position. (9) The lever may further include a grip, a first arm, and a second arm. The grip extends in a first direction. The first arm is connected to one end of the grip in the first direction. The second arm is connected to the other end of the grip in the first direction. Each of the first arm and the second arm has a first gear. Effect of the Invention

[0034] According to the image forming apparatus of the present disclosure, toner can be stably supplied from the first toner cartridge, which does not move relative to the first photosensitive drum, to the first developing housing, which is movable relative to the first photosensitive drum, while preventing toner leakage. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0035] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an image forming apparatus. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows the drawer shown in FIG. 1 in the outer position. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 shows a state in which the drum cartridge shown in FIG. 2 has been removed from the drawer. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the drum cartridge shown in FIG. [Diagram 5] 5 is an exploded perspective view of a developing housing and a seal member of the drum cartridge shown in FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a side view of the drum cartridge shown in FIG. 4 as viewed from one side in the second direction. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a side view of the drum cartridge shown in FIG. 4 as viewed from one side in the first direction. [Figure 8] 8 is a cross-sectional view of the drum cartridge shown in FIG. 6 taken along line AA. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 shows a state in which the developer shutter is located at the developer open position in the drum cartridge shown in FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the toner cartridge shown in FIG. [Figure 11] 11 is a cross-sectional view of the toner cartridge shown in FIG. 10, taken along line CC in FIG. [Figure 12] 12 is a cross-sectional view of the toner cartridge shown in FIG. 11, taken along line BB in FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the toner cartridge shown in FIG. 12, showing a state in which the lever is located at the second position. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the drum cartridge shown in FIG. 1 and the toner cartridge shown in FIG. 10, showing a state in which the developer shutter is located at the developer open position and the toner shutter is located at the toner open position. [Figure 15]FIG. 15 is a side view of the toner cartridge shown in FIG. 10 as viewed from one side in the first direction, showing a state in which the lever is located at the first position. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 shows the toner cartridge shown in FIG. 10 with the lever in the second position. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a side view of the toner cartridge shown in FIG. 16 as viewed from the other side in the second direction. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the drum cartridge shown in FIG. 1 and the toner cartridge shown in FIG. 10, showing a state in which the development shutter is located at the development closed position and the toner shutter is located at the toner closed position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0036] 1. Overview of image forming apparatus 1 An outline of an image forming apparatus 1 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 1 includes a main body housing 2, a sheet storage section 3, a drawer 4, multiple drum cartridges 5Y, 5M, 5C, and 5K, multiple toner cartridges 6Y, 6M, 6C, and 6K, an exposure device 7, a transfer device 8, and a fixing device 9.

[0038] 1.1 Main unit 2 The main body housing 2 houses a sheet storage section 3, a drawer 4, a plurality of drum cartridges 5Y, 5M, 5C, and 5K, a plurality of toner cartridges 6Y, 6M, 6C, and 6K, an exposure device 7, a transfer device 8, and a fixing device 9. The main body housing 2 has an opening 21 and a cover 22. The opening 21 is located at one end of the main body housing in the second direction. The second direction will be described later. The cover 22 is movable between a closed position (see FIG. 1) and an open position (see FIG. 2). As shown in FIG. 1, when the cover 22 is located at the closed position, the cover 22 closes the opening 21. As shown in FIG. 2, when the cover 22 is located at the open position, the opening 21 opens.

[0039] 1.2 Sheet storage section 3 1, the sheet storage unit 3 is capable of storing a sheet S. The sheet S in the sheet storage unit 3 is transported toward the transfer device 8.

[0040] 1.3 Drawer 4 As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the drawer 4 is movable in a second direction between an inner position (see FIG. 1) and an outer position (see FIG. 2) through the opening 21. The second direction is a horizontal direction. As shown in FIG. 1, when the drawer 4 is located at the inner position, the drawer 4 is located inside the main body housing 2. As shown in FIG. 2, when the drawer 4 is located at the outer position, the drawer 4 is located outside the main body housing 2.

[0041] 1.4 Drum Cartridge 5Y The drum cartridge 5Y is detachable from the main body housing 2. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, when the drawer 4 is located at the outer position, each of the drum cartridges 5Y, 5M, 5C, and 5K can be attached to the drawer 4. As shown in FIG. 1, when the drum cartridges 5Y, 5M, 5C, and 5K are attached to the drawer 4 and the drawer 4 is located at the inner position, the drum cartridges 5Y, 5M, 5C, and 5K are attached to the main body housing 2. That is, the drum cartridges 5Y, 5M, 5C, and 5K are supported by the drawer 4. As shown in FIG. 3, each of the drum cartridges 5Y, 5M, 5C, and 5K can be removed from the drawer 4 when the drawer 4 is located at the outer position.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 1, the drum cartridge 5Y includes a photosensitive drum 51Y, a charging roller 52Y, a developing housing 53Y, and a developing roller 54Y.

[0043] 1.4.1 Photosensitive drum 51Y The photosensitive drum 51Y is rotatable about a first axis A1. The first axis A1 extends in a first direction. The second direction intersects with the first direction. In this embodiment, the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0044] 1.4.2 Charge roller 52Y The charging roller 52Y charges the peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 51Y. The image forming apparatus 1 may have a Scorotron type charger instead of the charging roller 52Y.

[0045] 1.4.3 Developer housing 53Y The developing housing 53Y is capable of containing toner and supports the developing roller 54Y.

[0046] 1.4.4 Developing roller 54Y The developing roller 54Y can supply the toner in the developing housing 53Y to the photosensitive drum 51Y. The developing roller 54Y contacts the photosensitive drum 51Y. The developing roller 54Y may be separable from the photosensitive drum 51Y. The developing roller 54Y can rotate about a developing axis A2. The developing axis A2 extends in the first direction. The developing roller 54Y has a cylindrical shape.

[0047] 1.5 Drum Cartridge 5M, 5C, 5K Each of the drum cartridges 5M, 5C, and 5K has the same structure as the drum cartridge 5Y. Therefore, detailed explanations of each of the drum cartridges 5M, 5C, and 5K are omitted. The drum cartridge 5M has a photosensitive drum 51M. The photosensitive drum 51M is rotatable about a second axis A11. The second axis A11 extends in the first direction. The drum cartridge 5M is detachable from the main body housing 2. When the drum cartridge 5Y and the drum cartridge 5M are attached to the main body housing 2, the drum cartridge 5M is aligned with the drum cartridge 5Y in the second direction.

[0048] 1.6 Toner Cartridges 6Y, 6M, 6C, 6K The toner cartridge 6Y is capable of storing toner. The toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y in the third direction. The third direction will be described later.

[0049] The toner cartridge 6M is capable of containing toner and is connected to the drum cartridge 5M in the third direction.

[0050] The toner cartridge 6C is capable of containing toner. The toner cartridge 6C is connected to the drum cartridge 5C in the third direction.

[0051] The toner cartridge 6K is capable of containing toner. The toner cartridge 6K is connected to the drum cartridge 5K in the third direction.

[0052] 1.7 Exposure equipment 7 When each of the drum cartridges 5Y, 5M, 5C, and 5K is attached to the main body housing 2, the exposure device 7 can expose the circumferential surfaces of the photosensitive drums 51Y, 51M, 51C, and 51K. In detail, the exposure device 7 can expose the circumferential surface of the photosensitive drum 51Y charged by the charging roller 52Y. The exposure device 7 can expose the circumferential surface of the photosensitive drum 51M charged by the charging roller 52M. The exposure device 7 can expose the circumferential surface of the photosensitive drum 51C charged by the charging roller 52C. The exposure device 7 can expose the circumferential surface of the photosensitive drum 51K charged by the charging roller 52K.

[0053] 1.8 Transfer device 8 When the drum cartridges 5Y, 5M, 5C, and 5K are attached to the main body housing 2, the transfer device 8 is located below the photosensitive drums 51Y, 51M, 51C, and 51K. The transfer device 8 includes a belt 81 and a plurality of transfer rollers 82Y, 82M, 82C, and 82K.

[0054] With the drum cartridges 5Y, 5M, 5C, and 5K attached to the main body housing 2, the belt 81 comes into contact with the photosensitive drums 51Y, 51M, 51C, and 51K. The belt 81 transports the sheet S from the sheet storage unit 3 toward the fixing device 9. The sheet S from the sheet storage unit 3 passes between the belt 81 and the photosensitive drums 51Y, 51M, 51C, and 51K.

[0055] The transfer roller 82Y transfers the toner on the photosensitive drum 51Y to the sheet S being transported by the belt 81. The transfer roller 82M transfers the toner on the photosensitive drum 51M to the sheet S being transported by the belt 81. The transfer roller 82C transfers the toner on the photosensitive drum 51C to the sheet S being transported by the belt 81. The transfer roller 82K transfers the toner on the photosensitive drum 51K to the sheet S being transported by the belt 81.

[0056] 1.9 Fusing device 9 The fixing device 9 fixes the toner to the sheet S. In this embodiment, the fixing device 9 fixes the toner to the sheet S by applying heat and pressure to the sheet S to which the toner has been transferred. The sheet S that has passed through the fixing device 9 is discharged onto the top surface of the main body housing 2.

[0057] 2. Details of the 5Y drum cartridge The drum cartridge 5Y will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

[0058] In the following description of the drum cartridge 5Y, the "first direction," "second direction," and "third direction" refer to the "first direction," "second direction," and "third direction" when the drum cartridge is attached to the main body housing.

[0059] In the present disclosure, when the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y and the drum cartridge 5Y is attached to the main body housing 2, the drum cartridge 5Y can return the toner in the developing housing 53Y to the toner cartridge 6Y. Hereinafter, the toner returning from the developing housing 53Y to the toner cartridge 6Y is defined as returned toner.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 4, the drum cartridge 5Y has, in addition to the photosensitive drum 51Y, charging roller 52Y, developing housing 53Y and developing roller 54Y described above, a first frame 55A, a second frame 55B, a third frame 55C, a developing shutter 57, two engaging members 58A (see FIG. 7) and 58B, a first conveying member 56 (see FIG. 5), protrusions 537A (see FIG. 5), 537B (see FIG. 5), 536A (see FIG. 5) and 536B, and a sealing member 59 (see FIG. 5).

[0061] 2.1 First Frame 55A As shown in FIG. 6, the first frame 55A is located at one end of the drum cartridge 5Y in the first direction. The first frame 55A supports one end of the photosensitive drum 51Y in the first direction. The first frame 55A extends in a direction intersecting the first direction. Preferably, the first frame 55A extends in a direction perpendicular to the first direction. The first frame 55A has an outer surface and an inner surface SA1. As shown in FIG. 7, the first frame 55A has three through holes 551A, 554A, 553A, and a protrusion 556A (see FIG. 8) for supporting the engagement member 58A.

[0062] 2.1.1 Through hole 551A The through hole 551A is located at the other end of the first frame 55A in the third direction. The third direction intersects with both the first direction and the second direction. The third direction is the up-down direction. The through hole 551A is located below the developing housing 53Y. One end of the photosensitive drum 51Y in the first direction fits into the through hole 551A. The through hole 551A is circular.

[0063] 2.1.3 Through hole 554A The through hole 554A is located away from the photosensitive drum 51Y in the direction connecting the first axis A1 and the development axis A2. The through hole 554A extends in the direction connecting the first axis A1 and the development axis A2.

[0064] 2.1.4 Through hole 553A The through hole 553A is located away from the photosensitive drum 51Y in the direction connecting the first axis A1 and the development axis A2. The through hole 553A is located between the photosensitive drum 51Y and the through hole 554A in the direction connecting the first axis A1 and the development axis A2. The through hole 553A extends in the direction connecting the first axis A1 and the development axis A2.

[0065] 2.1.6 Protrusion 556A As shown in FIG. 8, the protrusion 556A is located on the inner surface SA1 of the first frame 55A. The protrusion 556A is located at one end of the first frame 55A in the third direction. The protrusion 556A extends in the first direction. The protrusion 556A has a cylindrical shape. The tip of the protrusion 556A is located between the inner surface SA1 of the first frame 55A and the second frame 55B in the first direction. The protrusion 556A has a groove 557A.

[0066] The groove 557A is located at the tip of the protrusion 556A. The groove 557A extends in the radial direction of the protrusion 556A. The groove 557A extends in a direction intersecting the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction. The groove 557A preferably extends in a direction perpendicular to the first direction and intersecting the second direction and the third direction.

[0067] 2.2 Second Frame 55B As shown in FIG. 6, the second frame 55B is located at the other end of the drum cartridge 5Y in the first direction. The second frame 55B is located away from the first frame 55A in the first direction. The second frame 55B supports the other end of the photosensitive drum 51Y in the first direction. The second frame 55B extends in a direction intersecting the first direction. Preferably, the second frame 55B extends in a direction perpendicular to the first direction. The second frame 55B has an outer surface and an inner surface SB1. The second frame 55B has three through holes 551B, 554B, and 553B, and a protrusion 556B (see FIG. 4) for supporting the engagement member 58B. The through hole 554B is not shown.

[0068] 2.2.1 Through hole 551B The through hole 551B is located at the other end of the second frame 55B in the third direction. The through hole 551B is located lower than the developing housing 53Y. The other end of the photosensitive drum 51Y in the first direction fits into the through hole 551B. The through hole 551B has a circular shape.

[0069] 2.2.3 Through hole 554B The through hole 554B is located away from the photosensitive drum 51Y in the direction connecting the first axis A1 and the development axis A2, similar to the through hole 554A of the first frame 55A (see FIG. 7). The through hole 554B extends in the direction connecting the first axis A1 and the development axis A2.

[0070] 2.2.4 Through hole 553B Similar to the through hole 553A of the first frame 55A (see FIG. 7), the through hole 553B is located away from the photosensitive drum 51Y in the direction connecting the first axis A1 and the development axis A2. The through hole 553B is located between the photosensitive drum 51Y and the through hole 554B in the direction connecting the first axis A1 and the development axis A2. The through hole 553B extends in the direction connecting the first axis A1 and the development axis A2.

[0071] 2.2.5 Protrusion 556B As shown in Fig. 4, the protrusion 556B is located on the inner surface SB1 of the second frame 55B. The protrusion 556B is located at one end of the second frame 55B in the third direction. The protrusion 556B extends in the first direction. The protrusion 556B has a cylindrical shape. The tip of the protrusion 556B is located between the inner surface SB1 of the second frame 55B and the first frame 55A in the first direction.

[0072] The protrusion 556B has a groove 557B. The groove 557B extends in a radial direction of the protrusion 556B. The groove 557B extends in a direction intersecting the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction. The groove 557B preferably extends in a direction perpendicular to the first direction and intersecting the second direction and the third direction.

[0073] 2.3 3rd Frame 55C The third frame 55C is located at one end of the drum cartridge 5Y in the third direction. The third frame 55C is located on the opposite side of the photosensitive drum 51Y with respect to the developing housing 53Y in the direction connecting the first axis A1 and the developing axis A2. As shown in Fig. 6, the third frame 55C is located between the first frame 55A and the second frame 55B. The third frame 55C extends in the first direction.

[0074] One end of the third frame 55C in the first direction is connected to the first frame 55A. One end of the third frame 55C in the first direction is fixed to the first frame 55A.

[0075] The other end of the third frame 55C in the first direction is connected to the second frame 55B. The other end of the third frame 55C in the first direction is fixed to the second frame 55B. Therefore, the third frame 55C does not move relative to the photosensitive drum 51Y.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 8, the third frame 55C has a first portion 551C, a second portion 552C, a first passage opening 553C (see FIG. 4), and two second passage openings 554C (see FIG. 4) and 555C (see FIG. 4).

[0077] 2.3.1 Part 1 551C The first portion 551C is aligned with the developing housing 53Y in the second direction. The first portion 551C is located between the developing shutter 57 and the developing housing 53Y. The first portion 551C is located between the protrusion 556B and the developing housing 53Y. The first portion 551C is located away from the protrusion 556B in the radial direction of the protrusion 556B. The first portion 551C extends in the circumferential direction of the protrusion 556B. The first portion 551C has an arc shape.

[0078] 2.3.2 Second part 552C As shown in Fig. 1, when the toner cartridge 6Y is attached to the drum cartridge 5Y, the second portion 552C is located between the toner cartridge 6Y and the developing housing 53Y in the third direction. As shown in Fig. 8, the second portion 552C is located on one side of the first portion 551C in the second direction. The second portion 552C extends from the first portion 551C in the second direction.

[0079] 2.3.3 1st passage port 553C As shown in FIG. 6, the first passage opening 553C is located at the center of the first portion 551C in the first direction. The first passage opening 553C extends in the first direction and the third direction. The first passage opening 553C has a rectangular shape. As shown in FIG. 8, the first passage opening 553C communicates with the internal space of the developing housing 53Y. When the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y, the toner from the toner cartridge 6Y can pass through the first passage opening 553C. In detail, when the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y, the toner from the toner cartridge 6Y passes through the first passage opening 553C in the second direction and enters the developing housing 53Y.

[0080] 2.3.4 2nd passage port 554C As shown in FIG. 6, the second passage opening 554C is located between the first passage opening 553C and the first frame 55A in the first direction. The second passage opening 554C is located away from the first passage opening 553C in the first direction. The second passage opening 554C extends in the first direction and the third direction. The second passage opening 554C has a rectangular shape. The second passage opening 554C communicates with the internal space of the developing housing 53Y (see FIG. 8). When the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y, the returning toner returning from one end of the developing housing 53Y in the first direction to the toner cartridge 6Y can pass through the second passage opening 554C. In detail, when the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y, the returning toner passes through the second passage opening 554C in the second direction.

[0081] 2.3.5 2nd passage port 555C The second passage opening 555C is located between the first passage opening 553C and the second frame 55B in the first direction. The second passage opening 555C is located away from the first passage opening 553C in the first direction. The second passage opening 555C extends in the first direction and the third direction. The second passage opening 555C has a rectangular shape. The second passage opening 555C communicates with the internal space of the developing housing 53Y. When the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y, the returning toner returning from the other end of the developing housing 53Y in the first direction to the toner cartridge 6Y can pass through the second passage opening 555C. In detail, when the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y, the returning toner passes through the second passage opening 555C in the second direction.

[0082] 2.4 Development Shutter 57 The developing shutter 57 is located between the first frame 55A and the second frame 55B. As shown in FIG. 8, the developing shutter 57 is located on the opposite side of the developing housing 53Y with respect to the third frame 55C in the second direction. The developing shutter 57 is aligned with the first passage opening 553C and the two second passage openings 554C, 555C (see FIG. 4) in the second direction. The developing shutter 57 is supported by the third frame 55C. More specifically, the developing shutter 57 is supported by the first portion 551C of the third frame 55C.

[0083] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the development shutter 57 is movable between a development closed position (see Figure 8) and a development open position (see Figure 9). As shown in Figure 8, when the development shutter 57 is located at the development closed position, the development shutter 57 closes the first passage opening 553C and the second passage openings 554C and 555C. As shown in Figure 9, when the development shutter 57 is located at the development open position, the first passage opening 553C and the second passage openings 554C and 555C are each open.

[0084] 4, the developing shutter 57 extends in a first direction. The developing shutter 57 curves along the first portion 551C of the third frame 55C. As shown in FIG.

[0085] 2.4.1 Holes 571, 572, 573, 574, 575, 576 The hole 571 is located in the center of the development shutter 57 in the first direction. The hole 571 is located between the first passage opening 553C and the first frame 55A in the first direction. The hole 571 is located away from the first passage opening 553C in the first direction.

[0086] The hole 572 is located in the center of the development shutter 57 in the first direction. The hole 572 is located on the opposite side of the hole 571 with respect to the first passage opening 553C in the first direction. The hole 572 is located between the first passage opening 553C and the second frame 55B in the first direction. The hole 572 is located away from the first passage opening 553C in the first direction.

[0087] The hole 573 is located at one end of the development shutter 57 in the first direction. The hole 573 is located between the second passage opening 554C and the first frame 55A in the first direction. The hole 573 is located away from the second passage opening 554C in the first direction. The hole 573 is located away from the hole 571 in the first direction. The hole 573 is located between the first frame 55A and the hole 571 in the first direction.

[0088] The hole 574 is located at one end of the development shutter 57 in the first direction. The hole 574 is located on the opposite side of the hole 573 with respect to the second passage opening 554C in the first direction. The hole 574 is located away from the second passage opening 554C in the first direction. The hole 574 is located away from the hole 573 in the first direction. The hole 574 is located between the hole 573 and the hole 571 in the first direction.

[0089] The hole 575 is located at the other end of the development shutter 57 in the first direction. The hole 575 is located between the second passage opening 555C and the second frame 55B in the first direction. The hole 575 is located away from the second passage opening 555C in the first direction. The hole 575 is located away from the hole 572 in the first direction. The hole 575 is located between the second frame 55B and the hole 572 in the first direction.

[0090] Hole 576 is located at the other end of the development shutter 57 in the first direction. Hole 576 is located on the opposite side of hole 575 with respect to the second passage opening 555C in the first direction. Hole 576 is located away from the second passage opening 555C in the first direction. Hole 576 is located away from hole 575 in the first direction. Hole 576 is located between hole 575 and hole 572 in the first direction.

[0091] 2.5 Engagement member 58A As shown in FIG. 8, the engagement member 58A is supported by the first frame 55A. The engagement member 58A is rotatable about the protrusion 556A. The engagement member 58A is connected to one end of the development shutter 57 in the first direction. The engagement member 58A is fixed to one end of the development shutter 57 in the first direction. This allows the development shutter 57 to rotate together with the engagement member 58A between a development closed position (see FIG. 8) and a development open position (see FIG. 9). The engagement member 58A has a disk shape. The engagement member 58A has a through hole 580A and two engagement grooves 581A and 582A.

[0092] The through hole 580A is located in the center of the engagement member 58A. The through hole 580A has a circular shape. The protrusion 556A of the first frame 55A fits into the through hole 580A.

[0093] The engagement groove 581A is located away from the developing shutter 57 in the radial direction of the engagement member 58A. The engagement groove 581A is located on the opposite side of the developing shutter 57 with respect to the through hole 580A in the radial direction of the engagement member 58A. The engagement groove 581A extends in the radial direction of the engagement member 58A. When the development shutter 57 is located at the development closed position, the engagement groove 581A communicates with the groove 557A of the protrusion 556A. When the development shutter 57 is located at the development closed position, the engagement groove 581A extends in the same direction as the groove 557A of the protrusion 556A. As shown in FIG. 9, when the development shutter 57 is located at the development open position, the engagement groove 581A is located away from the groove 557A of the protrusion 556A. When the development shutter 57 is located at the development open position, the engagement groove 581A extends in a different direction from the groove 557A of the protrusion 556A.

[0094] As shown in FIG. 8, the engagement groove 582A is located between the engagement groove 581A and the developing shutter 57 in the radial direction of the engagement member 58A. The engagement groove 582A is located between the through hole 580A and the developing shutter 57 in the radial direction of the engagement member 58A. The engagement groove 582A is located on the opposite side of the engagement groove 581A with respect to the through hole 580A in the radial direction of the engagement member 58A. The engagement groove 582A is located away from the engagement groove 581A in the radial direction of the engagement member 58A. The engagement groove 582A extends in the radial direction of the engagement member 58A. When the development shutter 57 is located at the development closed position, the engagement groove 582A communicates with the groove 557A of the protrusion 556A. When the development shutter 57 is located at the development closed position, the engagement groove 582A extends in the same direction as the groove 557A of the protrusion 556A. 9, when the development shutter 57 is in the development open position, the engagement groove 582A is positioned away from the groove 557A of the protrusion 556A. When the development shutter 57 is in the development open position, the engagement groove 582A extends in a different direction from the groove 557A of the protrusion 556A.

[0095] 2.6 Engagement member 58B As shown in FIG. 4, the engaging member 58B is supported by the second frame 55B. The engaging member 58B is rotatable about the protrusion 556B. The engaging member 58B is connected to the other end of the developing shutter 57 in the first direction. The engaging member 58B is fixed to the other end of the developing shutter 57 in the first direction. This allows the developing shutter 57 to rotate together with the engaging member 58B between the developing closed position (see FIG. 8) and the developing open position (see FIG. 9). The engaging member 58B has a disk shape. The engaging member 58B has a through hole 580B and two engaging grooves 581B, 582B.

[0096] The through hole 580B is located in the center of the engagement member 58B. The through hole 580B has a circular shape. The protrusion 556B of the second frame 55B fits into the through hole 580B.

[0097] The engagement groove 581B is located away from the developing shutter 57 in the radial direction of the engagement member 58B. The engagement groove 581B is located on the opposite side of the developing shutter 57 with respect to the through hole 580B in the radial direction of the engagement member 58B. The engagement groove 581B extends in the radial direction of the engagement member 58B. When the development shutter 57 is located at the development closed position, the engagement groove 581B communicates with the groove 557B of the protrusion 556B. When the development shutter 57 is located at the development closed position, the engagement groove 581B extends in the same direction as the groove 557B of the protrusion 556B. When the development shutter 57 is located at the development open position (see FIG. 9), the engagement groove 581B is located away from the groove 557B of the protrusion 556B. When the development shutter 57 is located at the development open position, the engagement groove 581B extends in a different direction from the groove 557B of the protrusion 556B.

[0098] The engagement groove 582B is located between the engagement groove 581B and the developing shutter 57 in the radial direction of the engagement member 58B. The engagement groove 582B is located between the through hole 580B and the developing shutter 57 in the radial direction of the engagement member 58B. The engagement groove 582B is located on the opposite side of the engagement groove 581B with respect to the through hole 580B in the radial direction of the engagement member 58B. The engagement groove 582B is located away from the engagement groove 581B in the radial direction of the engagement member 58B. The engagement groove 582B extends in the radial direction of the engagement member 58B. When the development shutter 57B is located in the development closed position, the engagement groove 582B communicates with the groove 557B of the protrusion 556B. When the development shutter 57 is located in the development closed position, the engagement groove 582B extends in the same direction as the groove 557B of the protrusion 556B. When the developing shutter 57 is positioned at the developing open position (see FIG. 9), the engagement groove 582B is positioned away from the groove 557B of the protrusion 556B. When the developing shutter 57 is positioned at the developing open position, the engagement groove 582B extends in a different direction from the groove 557B of the protrusion 556B.

[0099] 2.7 Developer box 53Y 8, the developing housing 53Y is located between the third frame 55C and the photosensitive drum 51Y in the direction connecting the first axis A1 and the developing axis A2. The developing housing 53Y extends in the first direction. The developing housing 53Y can contain the toner that has passed through the first passage opening 553C.

[0100] 5, the developing housing 53Y has a first wall 531, a second wall 532, a third wall 533, and a fourth wall 534. The developing housing 53Y has an opening 535.

[0101] 2.7.1 1st wall 531 The first wall 531 is located at one end of the developing housing 53Y in the first direction. The first wall 531 is located between the second wall 532 and the first frame 55A in the first direction. The first wall 531 faces the first frame 55A in the first direction. The first wall 531 extends in the second and third directions. The first wall 531 supports one end of the developing roller 54Y in the first direction.

[0102] In detail, as shown in FIG. 6, the developing roller 54Y has a developing roller main body 541 and a developing roller shaft 542.

[0103] The developing roller body 541 extends in the first direction. The developing roller body 541 has a cylindrical shape. The developing roller body 541 is located between the first wall 531 and the second wall 532 in the first direction. The developing roller body 541 is rotatable together with the developing roller shaft 542.

[0104] The developing roller shaft 542 extends in the first direction along the development axis A2. The developing roller shaft 542 penetrates the developing roller main body 541. One end of the developing roller shaft 542 in the first direction protrudes from one end of the developing roller main body 541 in the first direction. The other end of the developing roller shaft 542 in the first direction protrudes from the other end of the developing roller main body 541 in the first direction. The first wall 531 supports one end of the developing roller shaft 542 in the first direction.

[0105] 2.7.2 Second wall 532 As shown in FIG. 5, the second wall 532 is located at the other end of the developing housing 53Y in the first direction. The second wall 532 is located away from the first wall 531 in the first direction. As shown in FIG. 6, the second wall 532 is located between the first wall 531 and the second frame 55B in the first direction. The second wall 532 faces the second frame 55B in the first direction. The second wall 532 extends in the second and third directions. The second wall 532 supports the other end of the developing roller 54Y in the first direction. More specifically, the second wall 532 supports the other end of the developing roller shaft 542 in the first direction.

[0106] The first wall 531 supports one end of the developing roller 54Y in the first direction, and the second wall 532 supports the other end of the developing roller 54Y in the first direction, so that the developing roller 54Y is supported by the developing housing 53Y.

[0107] 2.7.3 Third wall 533 5, the third wall 533 is located at one end of the developing housing 53Y in the third direction. The third wall 533 is located between the first wall 531 and the second wall 532 in the first direction. The third wall 533 extends in the first and second directions. One end of the third wall 533 in the first direction is connected to the first wall 531. The other end of the third wall 533 in the first direction is connected to the second wall 532.

[0108] 2.7.4 4th wall 534 The fourth wall 534 is located at the other end of the developing housing 53Y in the third direction. The fourth wall 534 is located away from the third wall 533 in the third direction. The fourth wall 534 is located between the first wall 531 and the second wall 532 in the first direction. The fourth wall 534 extends in the first and second directions. One end of the fourth wall 534 in the first direction is connected to the first wall 531. The other end of the fourth wall 534 in the first direction is connected to the second wall 532.

[0109] 2.7.5 Aperture 535 As shown in Fig. 8, the opening 535 is located at the other end of the developing housing 53Y in the second direction. As shown in Fig. 5, the opening 535 extends from the first wall 531 to the second wall 532 in the first direction, and extends from the third wall 533 to the fourth wall 534 in the third direction. The first passing opening 553C and the second passing openings 554C, 555C (see Fig. 6) are located within the opening 535 in the first and third directions. As a result, the first passing opening 553C and the second passing openings 554C, 555C communicate with the internal space of the developing housing 53Y.

[0110] 2.8 First conveying member 56 The first conveying member 56 is located in the developing housing 53Y. The first conveying member 56 conveys the toner in the developing housing 53Y in a first direction. More specifically, the first conveying member 56 can convey the toner in the developing housing 53Y from the first passing port 553C (see FIG. 6) toward the two second passing ports 554C, 555C (see FIG. 6). The first conveying member 56 extends in the first direction. In this embodiment, the first conveying member 56 is an auger screw. In this embodiment, the first conveying member 56 has a shaft 561. The first conveying member 56 is rotatable about a third axis A3. The third axis A3 extends in the first direction. The first conveying portion 56A extends from the first passing port 553C (see FIG. 6) to the second passing port 554C (see FIG. 6). The first conveying member 56 extends from the first passage opening 553C (see FIG. 6) to the second passage opening 555C (see FIG. 6).

[0111] 2.9.1 Protrusion 537A As shown in FIG. 7, the protrusion 537A is located away from the photosensitive drum 51Y in the direction connecting the first axis A1 and the development axis A2. The protrusion 537A fits into the through hole 554A of the first frame 55A. As shown in FIG. 5, the protrusion 537A is located on the opposite side of the second wall 532 with respect to the first wall 531 in the first direction. The protrusion 537A extends in the first direction. The protrusion 537A has a cylindrical shape. In this embodiment, the protrusion 537A is one end of the shaft 561 of the first conveying member 56. The protrusion 537A may extend from one end surface of the development housing 53Y in the first direction. The protrusion 537A may be attached to one end surface of the development housing 53Y in the first direction.

[0112] 2.9.2 Protrusion 536A As shown in FIG. 7, the protrusion 536A is located between the photosensitive drum 51Y and the protrusion 537A in the direction connecting the first axis A1 and the development axis A2. The protrusion 536A fits into the through hole 553A of the first frame 55A. As shown in FIG. 5, the protrusion 536A is located on the opposite side of the second wall 532 with respect to the first wall 531 in the first direction. The protrusion 536A extends in the first direction. The protrusion 536A has a cylindrical shape. In this embodiment, the protrusion 536A is one end of the developing roller shaft 542. The protrusion 536A may extend from one end surface of the developing housing 53Y in the first direction. The protrusion 536A may be attached to one end surface of the developing housing 53Y in the first direction.

[0113] 2.9.3 Protrusion 537B The protrusion 537B is located away from the photosensitive drum 51Y (see FIG. 4) in the direction connecting the first axis A1 and the development axis A2. The protrusion 537B fits into the through hole 554B of the second frame 55B. The protrusion 537B is located on the opposite side of the first wall 531 with respect to the second wall 532 in the first direction. The protrusion 537B extends in the first direction. The protrusion 537B has a cylindrical shape. In this embodiment, the protrusion 537B is the other end of the shaft 561 of the first conveying member 56. The protrusion 537B may extend from the other end surface of the development housing 53Y in the first direction. The protrusion 537B may be attached to the other end surface of the development housing 53Y in the first direction.

[0114] 2.9.4 Protrusion 536B The protrusion 536B is located between the photosensitive drum 51Y and the protrusion 537B in the direction connecting the first axis A1 and the development axis A2. As shown in FIG. 6, the protrusion 536B fits into the through hole 553B of the second frame 55B. The protrusion 536B is located on the opposite side of the first wall 531 with respect to the second wall 532 in the first direction. The protrusion 536B extends in the first direction. The protrusion 536B has a cylindrical shape. In this embodiment, the protrusion 536B is the other end of the developing roller shaft 542. The protrusion 536B may extend from the other end surface of the developing housing 53Y in the first direction. The protrusion 536B may be attached to the other end surface of the developing housing 53Y in the first direction.

[0115] As the protrusion 537A fits into the through hole 554A, the protrusion 536A fits into the through hole 553A, the protrusion 537B fits into the through hole 554B, and the protrusion 536B fits into the through hole 553B, as shown in FIG. 7, the developing housing 53Y is movable relative to the photosensitive drum 51Y in the direction connecting the first axis A1 and the developing axis A2.

[0116] 2.10 Sealing material 59 As shown in FIG. 8, the seal member 59 seals between the developing housing 53Y and the third frame 55C (see FIG. 6). The seal member 59 is located between the developing housing 53Y and the third frame 55C in the second direction. As shown in FIG. 5, the seal member 59 surrounds the opening 535 in the developing housing 53. The seal member 59 is located around the first passing opening 553C away from the first passing opening 553C. The seal member 59 has a frame shape. More specifically, the seal member 59 has a first seal portion 591, a second seal portion 592, a third seal portion 593, and a fourth seal portion 594.

[0117] The first seal portion 591 is located at one end of the seal member 59 in the first direction. The first seal portion 591 extends in the third direction. The first seal portion 591 is located between the other end of the first wall 531 in the second direction and the third frame 55C (see FIG. 4). The first seal portion 591 provides a seal between the first wall 531 and the third frame 55C.

[0118] The second seal portion 592 is located at the other end of the seal member 59 in the first direction. The second seal portion 592 is located away from the first seal portion 591 in the first direction. The second seal portion 592 extends in the third direction. The second seal portion 592 is located between the other end of the second wall 532 in the second direction and the third frame 55C (see FIG. 4). The second seal portion 592 provides a seal between the second wall 532 and the third frame 55C.

[0119] The third seal portion 593 is located at one end of the seal member 59 in the third direction. The third seal portion 593 extends in the first direction. One end of the third seal portion 593 in the first direction is connected to the first seal portion 591. The other end of the third seal portion 593 in the first direction is connected to the second seal portion 592. The third seal portion 593 is located between the other end of the third wall 533 in the second direction and the third frame 55C (see FIG. 4). The third seal portion 593 provides a seal between the third wall 533 and the third frame 55C.

[0120] The fourth seal portion 594 is located at the other end of the seal member 59 in the third direction. The fourth seal portion 594 is located away from the third seal portion 593 in the third direction. The fourth seal portion 594 extends in the first direction. One end of the fourth seal portion 594 in the first direction is connected to the first seal portion 591. The other end of the fourth seal portion 594 in the first direction is connected to the second seal portion 592. The fourth seal portion 594 is located between the other end of the fourth wall 534 in the second direction and the third frame 55C (see FIG. 4). The fourth seal portion 594 seals between the fourth wall 534 and the third frame 55C.

[0121] The first passage opening 553C (see FIG. 4), the second passage opening 554C (see FIG. 4), and the second passage opening 555C (see FIG. 4) are located between the first seal portion 591 and the second seal portion 592 in the first direction, and are located between the third seal portion 593 and the fourth seal portion 594 in the third direction. That is, the seal member 59 is located around the first passage opening 553C, the second passage opening 554C, and the second passage opening 555C, away from the first passage opening 553C, the second passage opening 554C, and the second passage opening 555C.

[0122] The seal member 59 is elastically deformable in response to movement of the developing housing 53Y relative to the photosensitive drum 51Y. This makes it possible to prevent toner from leaking between the developing housing 53Y and the third frame 55C when the developing housing 53Y moves relative to the photosensitive drum 51Y. The seal member 59 is made of, for example, a sponge.

[0123] 3. Toner Cartridge 6Y Details The toner cartridge 6Y will be described in detail with reference to Figures 1 and 10 to 17. In the following description of the toner cartridge 6Y, the "first direction", the "second direction", and the "third direction" refer to the "first direction", the "second direction", and the "third direction" in a state in which the toner cartridge is connected to the drum cartridge and the drum cartridge is attached to the main body housing.

[0124] As shown in FIG. 10, the toner cartridge 6Y has a toner housing 61Y, three toner shutters 63A, 63B, 63C, an agitator 64 (see FIG. 11), two support portions 65A, 65B (see FIG. 11), two engagement portions 66A, 66B (see FIG. 11), a second conveying member 62 (see FIG. 11), a lever 67, and rotating members 68A, 68B.

[0125] 3.1 Toner case 61Y The toner housing 61Y is capable of housing toner. The toner housing 61Y has a first housing section 612, a second housing section 613, and a partition wall 614 (see FIG. 11).

[0126] 3.1.1 First Container 612 10, the first accommodating portion 612 extends in a first direction. The first accommodating portion 612 has a box shape.

[0127] 3.1.2 Second Container 613 The second accommodating portion 613 is located at the other end of the toner cartridge 6Y in the third direction. Specifically, the second accommodating portion 613 is located below the first accommodating portion 612. The second accommodating portion 613 extends in the first direction. The second accommodating portion 613 has a cylindrical shape.

[0128] The second storage portion 613 communicates with the first storage portion 612. The second storage portion 613 is capable of storing toner from the first storage portion 612. The second storage portion 613 has an outlet 615 and two receiving ports 616, 617. In other words, the toner housing 61 has an outlet 615 and two receiving ports 616, 617. That is, the toner cartridge 6Y has an outlet 615 and two receiving ports 616, 617.

[0129] 3.1.2.1 Outlet 615 The discharge port 615 is located in the center of the second container 613 in the first direction. The discharge port 615 communicates with the internal space of the second container 613. This allows the toner in the second container 613 to be discharged through the discharge port 615.

[0130] 3.1.2.2 Inlet 616,617 The receiving opening 616 is located at one end of the second accommodating portion 613 in the first direction. The receiving opening 616 is located away from the discharge opening 615 in the first direction. The receiving opening 616 communicates with the internal space of the second accommodating portion 613. When the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y (see FIG. 1), the receiving opening 616 is capable of receiving returned toner.

[0131] The receiving opening 617 is located at the other end of the second accommodating portion 613 in the first direction. The receiving opening 617 is located away from the discharge opening 615 in the first direction. The receiving opening 617 communicates with the internal space of the second accommodating portion 613. In a state in which the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y (see FIG. 1), the receiving opening 617, together with the receiving opening 616, can receive returned toner.

[0132] 3.1.3 Partition wall 614 11 and 12, the partition wall 614 is located between the first storage portion 612 and the second storage portion 613. The partition wall 614 separates the first storage portion 612 and the second storage portion 613. As shown in Fig. 11, the partition wall 614 extends in the first direction. The partition wall 614 has two openings 6141, 6142.

[0133] The opening 6141 is located between the discharge port 615 and the receiving port 616 in the first direction. The internal space of the second container 613 communicates with the internal space of the first container 612 through the opening 6141. The toner in the first container 612 flows into the second container 613 through the opening 6141.

[0134] The opening 6142 is located between the discharge port 615 and the receiving port 617 in the first direction. The opening 6142 is located away from the opening 6141 in the first direction. The internal space of the second container 613 communicates with the internal space of the first container 612 through the opening 6142. The toner in the first container 612 enters the second container 613 through the opening 6142.

[0135] 3.2 Toner shutters 63A, 63B, 63C As shown in FIG. 10, the toner shutter 63A is located at the center of the second storage section 613 in the first direction. The toner shutter 63A is located on the outer circumferential surface of the second storage section 613. The toner shutter 63A extends in the first direction. The toner shutter 63A can open and close the discharge port 615. In detail, as shown in FIG. 12 and FIG. 14, the toner shutter 63A can move between a toner closed position (see FIG. 12) and a toner open position (see FIG. 14). As shown in FIG. 12, when the toner shutter 63A is located at the toner closed position, the toner shutter 63A closes the discharge port 615. As shown in FIG. 14, when the toner shutter 63A is located at the toner open position, the discharge port 615 opens.

[0136] As shown in FIG. 10, the toner shutter 63A has a shutter opening 630A (see FIG. 12) and two protrusions 631A and 632A.

[0137] 12, when the toner shutter 63A is in the toner closed position, the shutter opening 630A is located away from the discharge port 615. When the toner shutter 63A is in the toner closed position, the shutter opening 630A does not communicate with the discharge port 615. When the toner shutter 63A is in the toner open position, as shown in FIG.

[0138] 10, the protrusion 631A is located at one end of the toner shutter 63A in the first direction. The protrusion 631A is located away from the discharge port 615 in the first direction.

[0139] The protrusion 632A is located at the other end of the toner shutter 63A in the first direction. The protrusion 632A is located away from the protrusion 631A in the first direction. The protrusion 632A is located on the opposite side of the discharge port 615 to the protrusion 631A in the first direction.

[0140] The toner shutter 63B is located at one end of the second storage section 613 in the first direction. The toner shutter 63B is located away from the toner shutter 63A in the first direction. The toner shutter 63B is located on the outer circumferential surface of the second storage section 613. The toner shutter 63B extends in the first direction. The toner shutter 63B can open and close the receiving port 616. More specifically, the toner shutter 63B can move between a second toner closed position (see FIG. 10) and a second toner open position (see FIG. 14). As shown in FIG. 10, when the toner shutter 63B is located at the second toner closed position, the toner shutter 63B closes the receiving port 616. When the toner shutter 63B is located at the second toner open position, the receiving port 616 opens.

[0141] The toner shutter 63B has a shutter opening 630B (not shown) and two protrusions 631B and 632B.

[0142] The shutter opening 630B is located at the center of the toner shutter 63B in the first direction. When the toner shutter 63B is in the second toner closed position, the shutter opening 630B is located away from the receiving port 616. When the toner shutter 63B is in the second toner closed position, the shutter opening 630B does not communicate with the receiving port 616. When the toner shutter 63B is in the second toner open position, the shutter opening 630B communicates with the receiving port 616.

[0143] The protrusion 631B is located at one end of the toner shutter 63B in the first direction. The protrusion 631B is located away from the receiving opening 616 in the first direction.

[0144] The protrusion 632B is located at the other end of the toner shutter 63B in the first direction. The protrusion 632B is located away from the protrusion 631B in the first direction. The protrusion 632B is located on the opposite side of the receiving port 616 from the protrusion 631B in the first direction.

[0145] The toner shutter 63C is located at the other end of the second storage section 613 in the first direction. The toner shutter 63C is located away from the toner shutter 63A in the first direction. The toner shutter 63C is located on the opposite side of the toner shutter 63B with respect to the toner shutter 63A in the first direction. The toner shutter 63C is located on the outer circumferential surface of the second storage section 613. The toner shutter 63C extends in the first direction. The toner shutter 63C can open and close the receiving port 617. More specifically, the toner shutter 63C can move between a toner third closed position (see FIG. 10) and a toner third open position (see FIG. 14). When the toner shutter 63C is located at the toner third closed position, the toner shutter 63C closes the receiving port 617. When the toner shutter 63C is located at the toner third open position, the receiving port 617 opens.

[0146] The toner shutter 63C has a shutter opening 630C (not shown) and two protrusions 631C and 632C.

[0147] The shutter opening 630C is located at the center of the toner shutter 63C in the first direction. When the toner shutter 63C is in the toner third closed position, the shutter opening 630C is located away from the receiving port 617. When the toner shutter 63C is in the toner third closed position, the shutter opening 630C does not communicate with the receiving port 617. When the toner shutter 63C is in the toner third open position, the shutter opening 630C communicates with the receiving port 617.

[0148] The protrusion 631C is located at one end of the toner shutter 63C in the first direction. The protrusion 631C is located away from the receiving opening 617 in the first direction.

[0149] The protrusion 632C is located at the other end of the toner shutter 63C in the first direction. The protrusion 632C is located away from the protrusion 631C in the first direction. The protrusion 632C is located on the opposite side of the receiving opening 617 from the protrusion 631C in the first direction.

[0150] 3.3 Agitator 64 11, the agitator 64 is located inside the first housing portion 612. The agitator 64 is located on one side of the partition wall 614 in the third direction. When the toner cartridge is connected to the drum cartridge and the drum cartridge is attached to the main body housing, the agitator 64 is located above the partition wall 614. The agitator 64 has a shaft 641 and a plurality of blades 642A, 642B, 642C, and 642D.

[0151] The shaft 641 extends in a first direction. The shaft 641 has a cylindrical shape. One end of the shaft 641 in the first direction is supported by a side wall on one side of the first housing portion 612 in the first direction. The other end of the shaft 641 in the first direction is supported by a side wall on the other side of the first housing portion 612 in the first direction.

[0152] The blades 642A and 642B are located in the center of the first storage section 612 in the first direction. The blades 642A and 642B are attached to the center of the shaft 641 in the first direction. The blades 642A and 642B are aligned in the first direction. The blades 642A and 642B face the center of the partition wall 614 in the first direction. The blade 642A transports toner on the center of the partition wall 614 in the first direction in the first direction toward the opening 6141. The blade 642B transports toner on the center of the partition wall 614 in the first direction in the first direction toward the opening 6142.

[0153] The blade 642C is located within one end of the first container 612 in the first direction. The blade 642C is attached to one end of the shaft 641 in the first direction. The blade 642C faces one end of the partition wall 614 in the first direction. The blade 642C transports toner on one end of the partition wall 614 in the first direction toward the opening 6141 in the first direction.

[0154] Blade 642D is located within the other end of first container 612 in the first direction. Blade 642D is attached to the other end of shaft 641 in the first direction. Blade 642D faces the other end of partition wall 614 in the first direction. Blade 642D transports toner on the other end of partition wall 614 in the first direction in the first direction toward opening 6142.

[0155] 3.4 Support part 65A, 65B 10, the support portion 65A is located at one end of the toner cartridge 6Y in the first direction. The support portion 65A is located at one end surface of the first accommodating portion 612 in the first direction. The support portion 65A protrudes from the one end surface of the first accommodating portion 612 in the first direction. The support portion 65A has a cylindrical shape.

[0156] 11, the support portion 65B is located at the other end of the toner cartridge 6Y in the first direction. The support portion 65B is located at the other end surface of the first accommodating portion 612 in the first direction. The support portion 65B protrudes from the other end surface of the first accommodating portion 612 in the first direction. The support portion 65B has a cylindrical shape.

[0157] 3.4 Engagement part 66A 10, the engagement portion 66A is located on one end surface of the toner cartridge 6Y in the first direction. The engagement portion 66A is located on one end surface of the second accommodating portion 613 in the first direction. The engagement portion 66A is located on the other end portion of the toner cartridge 6Y in the third direction. The engagement portion 66A is a rib. The engagement portion 66A extends in the radial direction of the second accommodating portion 613.

[0158] 3.5 Engagement part 66B As shown in Fig. 11, the engagement portion 66B is located at the other end of the toner cartridge 6Y in the first direction. The engagement portion 66B is located at the other end face of the second accommodating portion 613 in the first direction. The engagement portion 66B is located at the other end of the toner cartridge 6Y in the third direction. The engagement portion 66B is a rib. The engagement portion 66B extends in the radial direction of the second accommodating portion 613.

[0159] 3.6 Second conveying member 62 The second transport member 62 is capable of transporting the toner in the toner cartridge 6Y from the receiving openings 616, 617 toward the discharge opening 615. The second transport member 62 is accommodated in the second accommodation portion 613.

[0160] The second conveying member 62 extends in the first direction. The second conveying member 62 is rotatable about the fourth axis A4. The second conveying member 62 is an auger screw. One end of the second conveying member 62 in the first direction is supported by one end of the second accommodating portion 613 in the first direction. The other end of the second conveying member 62 in the first direction is supported by the other end of the second accommodating portion 613 in the first direction.

[0161] 12, the second transport member 62 is aligned with the discharge port 615, the receiving port 616 (see FIG. 11), and the receiving port 617 (see FIG. 11) in the second direction. As shown in FIG. 14, when the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y, the second transport member 62 is aligned with the first transport member 56 in the second direction.

[0162] When the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y, the second transport member 62 is located on the opposite side of the first transport member 56 with respect to the discharge port 615 in the second direction. When the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y, the fourth axis A4 is aligned with the third axis A3 in the second direction. When the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y, the discharge port 615 and the receiving ports 616, 617 (see FIG. 10) are located between the third axis A3 and the fourth axis A4 in the second direction.

[0163] 3.7 Lever 67 As shown in Fig. 10, the lever 67 is attached to the first housing portion 612. As shown in Fig. 15 and Fig. 16, the lever 67 is movable between a first position (see Fig. 15) and a second position (see Fig. 16). The lever 67 is rotatable about an axis A5 between the first position (see Fig. 15) and the second position (see Fig. 16).

[0164] As shown in Fig. 10, the lever 67 is located away from the toner shutters 63A, 63B, and 63C. The lever 67 is independent from the toner shutters 63A, 63B, and 63C. As a result, as shown in Figs. 12 and 13, when the toner cartridge 6Y is removed from the drum cartridge 5Y, even if the lever 67 moves between the first position (see Fig. 12) and the second position (see Fig. 13), the toner shutters 63A, 63B, and 63C (see Fig. 10) do not move.

[0165] As shown in FIG. 10, the lever 67 includes a grip 671, a first arm 672, and a second arm 673.

[0166] 3.8.1 Grip 671 The grip 671 is located above the toner housing 61 in the third direction. The grip 671 extends in the first direction.

[0167] 3.8.2 First Arm 672 The first arm 672 is located at one end of the toner cartridge 6Y in the first direction. As shown in FIG. 15, when the lever 67 is located at the first position, the first arm 672 extends in the third direction. The first arm 672 has a first end 6721 and a second end 6722. The first arm 672 further has a first gear 674. In other words, the lever 67 has the first gear 674.

[0168] 17, the first end 6721 is connected to one end of the grip 671 in the first direction. In other words, the first arm 672 is connected to one end of the grip 671 in the first direction.

[0169] As shown in FIG. 15, the second end 6722 is located away from the first end 6721. The second end 6722 is located between the grip 671 and the rotating member 68A. The second end 6722 has a disk shape. The second end 6722 has a through hole 6723. The through hole 6723 is located in the center of the second end 6722. The through hole 6723 is circular. The support portion 65A fits into the through hole 6723. As a result, the first arm 672 is supported by the support portion 65A.

[0170] The first gear 674 is located on the circumferential surface of the second end 6722. The first gear 674 is located on the opposite side of the first end 6721 with respect to the second end 6722 in the third direction. The first gear 674 has a plurality of gear teeth. The plurality of gear teeth are aligned in the circumferential direction of the second end 6722.

[0171] 3.8.3 Second Arm 673 As shown in Fig. 17, the second arm 673 is located at the other end of the toner cartridge 6Y in the first direction. With the lever 67 located at the first position (see Fig. 15), the second arm 673 extends in the third direction. The second arm 673 has a first end 6731 and a second end 6732. The second arm 673 further has a first gear 675. In other words, the lever 67 has the first gear 675.

[0172] The first end 6731 is connected to the other end of the grip 671 in the first direction. In other words, the second arm 673 is connected to the other end of the grip 671 in the first direction.

[0173] The second end 6732 is located away from the first end 6731. The second end 6732 is located between the grip 671 and the rotating member 68B. The second end 6732 has a disk shape. The second end 6732 has a through hole 6733. The through hole 6733 is circular. The through hole 6733 is located in the center of the second end 6732. The support portion 65B fits into the through hole 6733. As a result, the second arm 673 is supported by the support portion 65B.

[0174] The first gear 675 is located on the circumferential surface of the second end 6732. The first gear 675 is located on the opposite side of the first end 6731 with respect to the second end 6732 in the third direction. The first gear 675 has a plurality of gear teeth. The plurality of gear teeth are aligned in the circumferential direction of the second end 6732.

[0175] 3.9 Rotating member 68A As shown in FIG. 10, the rotating member 68A is located at the other end of the toner cartridge 6Y in the third direction. The rotating member 68A is located at one end surface of the second storage portion 613 in the first direction. As shown in FIG. 15, the rotating member 68A is located around the engaging portion 66A. The rotating member 68A is rotatable about the engaging portion 66A. The rotating member 68A has a disk shape. The rotating member 68A is independent from each of the toner shutters 63A, 63B, and 63C. The rotating member 68A has a through hole 680A, a second gear 681A, and two engaging portions 683A and 682A.

[0176] 3.9.1 Through hole 680A The through hole 680A is located in the center of the rotating member 68A. The through hole 680A has a circular shape. The engagement portion 66A fits into the through hole 680A.

[0177] 3.9.2 Second Gear 681A The second gear 681A is located on the circumferential surface of the rotating member 68A. The second gear 681A has a plurality of gear teeth. The plurality of gear teeth are arranged in the circumferential direction of the rotating member 68A. The second gear 681A meshes with the first gear 674. This allows the rotating member 68A to rotate in accordance with the movement of the lever 67.

[0178] 3.9.3 Engagement part 683A The engagement portion 683A is located away from the second gear 681A in the radial direction of the rotating member 68A. The engagement portion 683A extends in the radial direction of the rotating member 68A. When the lever 67 is located at the first position, the engagement portion 683A is located away from the engagement portion 66A. When the lever 67 is located at the first position, the engagement portion 683A extends in a different direction from the engagement portion 66A. As shown in FIG. 16, when the lever 67 is located at the second position, the engagement portion 683A is aligned with the engagement portion 66A. When the lever 67 is located at the second position, the engagement portion 683A extends in the same direction as the engagement portion 66A.

[0179] 3.9.4 Engagement portion 682A As shown in FIG. 15, the engagement portion 682A is located between the second gear 681A and the engagement portion 683A in the radial direction of the rotating member 68A. The engagement portion 682A is located on the opposite side of the engagement portion 683A with respect to the through hole 680A in the radial direction of the rotating member 68A. The engagement portion 682A extends in the radial direction of the rotating member 68A. The engagement portion 682A is located away from the engagement portion 683A in the radial direction of the rotating member 68A. When the lever 67 is located at the first position, the engagement portion 682A is located away from the engagement portion 66A. When the lever 67 is located at the first position, the engagement portion 682A extends in a different direction from the engagement portion 66A. As shown in FIG. 16, when the lever 67 is located at the second position, the engagement portion 682A is aligned with the engagement portion 66A. When the lever 67 is in the second position, the engagement portion 682A extends in the same direction as the engagement portion 66A.

[0180] 3.10 Rotating member 68B As shown in FIG. 10, the rotating member 68B is located at the other end of the toner cartridge 6Y in the third direction. The rotating member 68B is located at the other end surface of the second storage portion 613 in the first direction. The rotating member 68B is located around the engaging portion 66B (see FIG. 11). The rotating member 68B is rotatable about the engaging portion 66B. The rotating member 68B has a disk shape. The rotating member 68B is independent of each of the toner shutters 63A, 63B, and 63C. The rotating member 68B has the same shape as the rotating member 68A (see FIG. 15). In more detail, as shown in FIG. 17, the rotating member 68B has a through hole 680B, a second gear 681B, and two engaging portions 683B and 682B.

[0181] 3.10.1 Through hole 680B The through hole 680B is located in the center of the rotating member 68B. The through hole 680B has a circular shape. The engagement portion 66B fits into the through hole 680B.

[0182] 3.10.2 Second Gear 681B The second gear 681B is located on the circumferential surface of the rotating member 68B. The second gear 681B has a plurality of gear teeth. The plurality of gear teeth are arranged in the circumferential direction of the rotating member 68B. The second gear 681B meshes with the first gear 675. This allows the rotating member 68B to rotate in accordance with the movement of the lever 67.

[0183] 3.10.3 Engagement part 683B The engagement portion 683B is located away from the second gear 681B in the radial direction of the rotating member 68B. The engagement portion 683B extends in the radial direction of the rotating member 68B. When the lever 67 is in the first position (see FIG. 15), the engagement portion 683B is located away from the engagement portion 66B. When the lever 67 is in the first position, the engagement portion 683B extends in a different direction from the engagement portion 66B. When the lever 67 is in the second position (see FIG. 16), the engagement portion 683B is aligned with the engagement portion 66B. When the lever 67 is in the second position, the engagement portion 683B extends in the same direction as the engagement portion 66B.

[0184] 3.10.4 Engagement part 682B The engaging portion 682B is located between the second gear 681B and the engaging portion 683B in the radial direction of the rotating member 68B. The engaging portion 682B extends in the radial direction of the rotating member 68B. The engaging portion 682B is located away from the engaging portion 683B in the radial direction of the rotating member 68B. When the lever 67 is located at the first position (see FIG. 15), the engaging portion 682B is located away from the engaging portion 66B. When the lever 67 is located at the first position, the engaging portion 682B extends in a different direction from the engaging portion 66B. When the lever 67 is located at the first position (see FIG. 16), the engaging portion 682B is aligned with the engaging portion 66B. When the lever 67 is located at the second position, the engaging portion 682B extends in the same direction as the engaging portion 66B.

[0185] 4. Connecting the toner cartridge 6Y to the drum cartridge 5Y The connection of the toner cartridge 6Y to the drum cartridge 5Y will be described with reference to FIGS. 4, 6, 8, 10, 14, 17 and 18.

[0186] As shown in Figures 14 and 18, when the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y, the lever 67 is rotatable between a first position (see Figure 14) and a second position (see Figure 18). As shown in Figure 14, when the lever 67 is in the first position, the developer shutter 57 is in the developer open position. As shown in Figure 18, when the lever 67 is in the second position, the developer shutter 57 is in the developer closed position.

[0187] Specifically, when the second accommodating portion 613 of the toner cartridge 6Y is fitted into the first portion 551C of the drum cartridge 5Y, the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y in the third direction. In the state in which the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y, the toner cartridge 6Y is located above the drum cartridge 5Y.

[0188] When the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y, the engagement portion 66A (see FIG. 10) of the toner cartridge 6Y fits into the groove 557A (see FIG. 8) of the drum cartridge 5. Also, the engagement portion 66B (see FIG. 17) of the toner cartridge 6Y fits into the groove 557B (see FIG. 4) of the drum cartridge 5.

[0189] When the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y, the engaging portion 683A (see FIG. 10) of the rotating member 68A fits into the engaging groove 582A (see FIG. 8) of the engaging member 58A. The engaging portion 682A (see FIG. 10) fits into the engaging groove 581A (see FIG. 8). The engaging portion 683B (see FIG. 17) of the rotating member 68B fits into the engaging groove 582B (see FIG. 4) of the engaging member 58B. The engaging portion 682B (see FIG. 17) fits into the engaging groove 581B (see FIG. 4). As a result, when the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y, the engaging member 58A engages with the rotating member 68A, and the engaging member 58B engages with the rotating member 68B. As a result, the engaging member 58A becomes rotatable together with the rotating member 68A, and the engaging member 58B becomes rotatable together with the rotating member 68B. That is, in a state in which the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y, the developing shutter 57 is movable in accordance with the rotation of the lever 67.

[0190] Further, in a state where the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y, the protrusion 631A (see FIG. 10) of the toner shutter 63A fits into the hole 571 (see FIG. 6) of the development shutter 57, the protrusion 632A (see FIG. 10) fits into the hole 572 (see FIG. 6), the protrusion 631B (see FIG. 10) of the toner shutter 63B fits into the hole 573 (see FIG. 6), the protrusion 632B (see FIG. 10) fits into the hole 574 (see FIG. 6), the protrusion 631C (see FIG. 10) of the toner shutter 63C fits into the hole 576 (see FIG. 6), and the protrusion 632C (see FIG. 10) fits into the hole 575 (see FIG. 6). As a result, in a state where the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y, the development shutter 57 becomes movable together with the toner shutters 63A, 63B, and 63C.

[0191] 14 and 18, when the lever 67 rotates from the first position (see FIG. 14) to the second position (see FIG. 18) with the toner cartridge 6Y connected to the drum cartridge 5Y, the development shutter 57 moves from the development open position (see FIG. 14) to the development closed position (see FIG. 18). In other words, with the toner cartridge 6Y connected to the drum cartridge 5Y, the development shutter 57 moves from the development open position (see FIG. 14) to the development closed position (see FIG. 18) in accordance with the movement of the lever 67 from the first position (see FIG. 14) to the second position (see FIG. 18).

[0192] At this time, the toner shutter 63A moves from the toner open position (see FIG. 14) to the toner closed position (see FIG. 18) in association with the movement of the developer shutter 57 from the developer open position (see FIG. 14) to the developer closed position (see FIG. 18). Also, the toner shutter 63B moves from the toner second open position to the toner second closed position in association with the movement of the developer shutter 57 from the developer open position to the developer closed position. The toner shutter 63C moves from the toner third open position to the toner third closed position in association with the movement of the developer shutter 57 from the developer open position to the developer closed position.

[0193] 18, when the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y and the lever 67 is in the second position, the developer shutter 57 is in the developer closed position, the toner shutter 63A is in the toner closed position, the toner shutter 63B is in the toner second closed position, and the toner shutter 63C is in the toner third closed position. As a result, the toner in the toner cartridge 6Y is not supplied to the developer housing 53Y.

[0194] On the other hand, when the lever 67 rotates from the second position (see FIG. 18) to the first position (see FIG. 14) with the toner cartridge 6Y connected to the drum cartridge 5Y, the development shutter 57 moves from the development closed position (see FIG. 18) to the development open position (see FIG. 14). In other words, with the toner cartridge 6Y connected to the drum cartridge 5Y, the development shutter 57 moves from the development closed position (see FIG. 18) to the development open position (see FIG. 14) in accordance with the movement of the lever 67 from the second position (see FIG. 18) to the first position (see FIG. 14).

[0195] At this time, as shown in Figures 14 and 18, the toner shutter 63A moves from the toner closed position (see Figure 18) to the toner open position (see Figure 14) in association with the movement of the development shutter 57 from the development closed position (see Figure 18) to the development open position (see Figure 14). In addition, the toner shutter 63B moves from the toner second closed position to the toner second open position in association with the movement of the development shutter 57 from the development closed position to the development open position. In addition, the toner shutter 63C moves from the toner third closed position to the toner third open position in association with the movement of the development shutter 57 from the development closed position to the development open position.

[0196] Then, as shown in FIG. 14, when the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y and the lever 67 is in the first position, the development shutter 57 is in the development open position, the toner shutter 63A is in the toner open position, the toner shutter 63B is in the toner second open position, and the toner shutter 63C is in the toner third open position.

[0197] As a result, when the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y and the lever 67 is in the first position, the discharge port 615 of the toner cartridge 6Y communicates with the first passage port 553C of the drum cartridge 5Y in the second direction. The second passage port 554C (see FIG. 6) communicates with the receiving port 616 (see FIG. 10) in the second direction. The second passage port 555C (see FIG. 6) communicates with the receiving port 617 (see FIG. 10) in the second direction.

[0198] As a result, when the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y and the lever 67 is in the first position, the toner from the discharge port 615 of the toner cartridge 6Y can pass through the first passage port 553C. Also, the receiving port 616 (see FIG. 10) can receive the returned toner that has passed through the second passage port 554C from the developing housing 53Y. Also, the receiving port 617 (see FIG. 10) can receive the returned toner that has passed through the second passage port 555C from the developing housing 53Y.

[0199] 6. Effects (1) According to the image forming apparatus 1, as shown in FIG. 14, the seal member 59 is located around the first passage opening 553C and away from the first passage opening 553C.

[0200] Therefore, the contact of the toner supplied from the toner cartridge 6Y through the first passage opening 553C into the developing housing 53Y with the seal member 59 can be reduced.

[0201] This makes it possible to prevent the seal member 59 from interfering with the flow of toner from the toner cartridge 6Y toward the developing housing 53Y.

[0202] As a result, the developing housing 53Y supporting the developing roller 54Y is movable relative to the photosensitive drum 51Y, and the toner cartridge 6Y can be connected to the drum cartridge 5Y so as not to move relative to the photosensitive drum 51Y, while toner leakage from between the developing housing 53Y and the third frame 55C is suppressed, and toner can be stably supplied from the toner cartridge 6Y to the developing housing 53Y.

[0203] (2) According to the image forming apparatus 1, as shown in FIG. 14, when the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y, the discharge opening 615 communicates with the first passage opening 553C in the second direction.

[0204] Therefore, the toner can be smoothly supplied from the toner cartridge 6Y to the developing housing 53Y.

[0205] (3) According to the image forming device 1, when the toner cartridge 6Y is connected to the drum cartridge 5Y (see FIG. 14), the second passage opening 554C (see FIG. 6) communicates with the receiving opening 616 (see FIG. 10) in the second direction, and the second passage opening 555C (see FIG. 6) communicates with the receiving opening 617 (see FIG. 10) in the second direction.

[0206] This allows the toner in the developing housing 53Y to be smoothly returned to the toner cartridge 6Y through the second passage openings 554C and 555C.

[0207] Therefore, the toner can be smoothly circulated between the developing case 53Y and the toner cartridge 6Y.

[0208] As a result, the toner can be prevented from accumulating in the developing casing 53Y. (4) According to the image forming apparatus 1, as shown in FIG. 14, the second conveying member 62 is aligned with the first conveying member 56 in the second direction.

[0209] Therefore, the toner can be smoothly circulated between the developing case 53Y and the toner cartridge 6Y. (5) According to image forming apparatus 1, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 18, discharge opening 615 and first passage opening 553C can be closed by a single action of moving lever 67 from the first position (see FIG. 14) to the second position (see FIG. 18).

[0210] Moreover, by a single operation of moving the lever 67 from the second position (see FIG. 18) to the first position (see FIG. 14), the discharge port 615 and the first passage port 553C can be opened. [Explanation of symbols]

[0211] 1. Image forming device 2 Main unit 21 Aperture 4 Drawer 5Y drum cartridge (first drum cartridge) 5M drum cartridge (second drum cartridge) 51Y Photosensitive drum (first photosensitive drum) 51M Photosensitive drum (second photosensitive drum) 53Y Developer box 55A 1st Frame 55B 2nd frame 55C 3rd Frame 56 First conveying member 57 Development Shutter 58A Engagement member 59 Sealing material 553C 1st passage 554C 2nd passage port 6Y Toner Cartridge (1st Toner Cartridge) 6M Toner Cartridge (2nd Toner Cartridge) 61 Toner case 615 Outlet 616 Inlet 62 second conveying member 63A Toner shutter 67 Lever 671 Grip 672 First Arm 673 Second Arm 674 1st Arm, 1st Gear 675 1st gear of 2nd arm 68A Rotating member 681A 2nd Gear A1 First axis

Claims

1. A main body housing; a first drum cartridge that has a first photosensitive drum that is rotatable about a first axis that extends in a first direction and is detachable from the main body housing; a second drum cartridge having a second photosensitive drum rotatable about a second axis extending in the first direction and detachable from the main body housing, the second drum cartridge being aligned with the first drum cartridge in a second direction intersecting with the first direction when the first drum cartridge and the second drum cartridge are attached to the main body housing; a first toner cartridge capable of containing toner and coupled to the first drum cartridge in a third direction intersecting both the first direction and the second direction; a second toner cartridge capable of containing toner and connected to the second drum cartridge in the third direction; Equipped with The first drum cartridge is a first frame supporting one end of the first photosensitive drum in the first direction; a second frame supporting the other end of the first photosensitive drum in the first direction; a third frame having a first passage opening through which the toner from the first toner cartridge can pass and not move relative to the first photosensitive drum; a first developing housing capable of accommodating the toner that has passed through the first passage opening and movable relative to the first photosensitive drum; a seal member that seals between the first developing housing and the third frame, the seal member being located around the first passage opening and spaced from the first passage opening; An image forming apparatus comprising:

2. the third direction is an up-down direction, 2 . The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the first toner cartridge is located above the first drum cartridge when the first toner cartridge is connected to the first drum cartridge.

3. the first toner cartridge has an outlet through which toner can be discharged; 3 . The image forming apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the discharge opening communicates with the first passage opening in the second direction when the first toner cartridge is connected to the first drum cartridge.

4. The first toner cartridge includes: a receiving opening that is located away from the discharge opening in the first direction and that is capable of receiving toner from the first developing housing when the first toner cartridge is connected to the first drum cartridge, The third frame is 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising a second passage opening located away from the first passage opening in the first direction, communicating with the receiving opening in the second direction when the first toner cartridge is connected to the first drum cartridge, and allowing toner from the first developing housing to pass through.

5. The first drum cartridge is a first conveying member capable of conveying the toner in the first developing housing from the first passage opening toward the second passage opening, The first toner cartridge includes:

5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising a second transport member capable of transporting the toner in the first toner cartridge from the receiving opening toward the discharging opening.

6. 6 . The image forming apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein the second transport member is aligned with the first transport member in the second direction when the first toner cartridge is connected to the first drum cartridge.

7. The main body housing includes: an opening located at one end of the main body housing in the second direction; The image forming apparatus includes: a drawer movable in the second direction through the opening between an inner position located within the main body housing and an outer position located outside the main body housing; The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the first drum cartridge and the second drum cartridge are supported by the drawer.

8. The first toner cartridge includes: a toner housing having an outlet through which the toner can be discharged and capable of storing the toner; a toner shutter movable between a toner closing position at which the discharge port is closed and a toner opening position at which the discharge port is opened; a lever having a first gear, the lever being movable between a first position and a second position; a rotating member having a second gear meshing with the first gear and rotatable in response to movement of the lever, the rotating member being independent of the toner shutter; having The first drum cartridge is a development shutter supported by the third frame and movable between a development closing position at which the first passage opening is closed and a development opening position at which the first passage opening is opened; an engaging member connected to the developing shutter, the engaging member engaging with the rotating member in a state in which the first toner cartridge is connected to the first drum cartridge; 2. The image forming apparatus of claim 1, wherein the developing shutter is movable together with the toner shutter when the first toner cartridge is connected to the first drum cartridge, and when the first toner cartridge is connected to the first drum cartridge, the developing shutter moves from the developing open position to the developing closed position in association with movement of the lever from the first position to the second position, and moves from the developing closed position to the developing open position in association with movement of the lever from the second position to the first position.

9. The lever is A grip extending in the first direction; a first arm connected to one end of the grip in the first direction; a second arm connected to the other end of the grip in the first direction, The image forming apparatus according to claim 8 , wherein each of the first arm and the second arm has the first gear.

Images