Cartridge and image forming apparatus

Abstract

To improve operability.SOLUTION: A cartridge has: a toner cartridge 42 that has a moving member movable relative to a toner storage unit and provided with an engagement part; and a process cartridge 41 that has a developing roller configured to carry toner and a part to be engaged, and to which the toner cartridge 42 is removably attached. A discharge shutter is configured to be movable in the direction of movement D2 between a first position and a second position. The first position is a position at which when the toner cartridge 42 is moved in the direction of separation D1, the engagement part and the part to be engaged are engaged with each other so that the toner cartridge 42 moves integrally with the process cartridge 41. The second position is a position at which when the toner cartridge 42 is moved in the direction of separation D1, the engagement part and the part to be engaged are not engaged with each other so that the toner cartridge 42 moves separate from the process cartridge 41.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a cartridge that is detachably mountable to an image forming apparatus that forms an image on a sheet, and to an image forming apparatus in which this cartridge is mounted. [Background technology]

[0002] In the past, in so-called electrophotographic image forming apparatuses that record toner on a recording medium such as paper, a replaceable process cartridge has been widely used, in which a photoconductor and a process means that acts on the photoconductor are integrated together. Also, a structure in which a toner cartridge that contains toner can be detachably attached to such a process cartridge is known.

[0003] Among such cartridges, one has been developed that allows the operation of a lever provided on the process cartridge to switch between a state in which a toner cartridge is attached to the process cartridge and restricts removal and a state in which it is permitted (see Patent Document 1). According to this cartridge, when the lever is operated to attach a toner cartridge to the process cartridge and place it in a state in which removal is restricted, the process cartridge and the toner cartridge can be attached and detached together from the device body. Also, according to this cartridge, when the lever is operated to attach a toner cartridge to the process cartridge and place it in a state in which removal is permitted, the toner cartridge can be attached and detached separately with the process cartridge attached to the device body. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2008-185829 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in the cartridge described in Patent Document 1, a lever is operated up and down to switch between a state in which the toner cartridge is mounted in the process cartridge and removal is restricted and a state in which removal is permitted. Also, the operability of the attachment and detachment operation of attaching and detaching the toner cartridge integrally with the process cartridge or separately was poor.

[0006] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE An object of the present invention is to provide a cartridge and an image forming apparatus that can improve operability. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] One aspect of the present invention is a cartridge, comprising a toner storage unit having a first toner storage section configured to store toner and provided with an outlet for discharging toner, a transport member configured to transport the toner stored in the first toner storage section toward the outlet, and a moving member movable relative to the first toner storage section and provided with an engagement portion; a developing roller configured to carry toner, a second toner storage section configured to store toner and provided with an inlet configured to communicate with the outlet, a developing frame body rotatably supporting the developing roller, and an engaged portion, and the toner storage unit is detachably attached in a first direction. and a developing unit which is movable between a first position and a second position, the movable member being configured to be movable in a second direction intersecting the first direction, the first position being a position where the engaging portion engages with the engaged portion so that the toner storage unit moves integrally with the developing unit when the toner storage unit is moved in the first direction, a removal direction in which the toner storage unit is removed from the developing unit, and the second position being a position where the engaging portion does not engage with the engaged portion so that the toner storage unit moves separately from the developing unit when the toner storage unit is moved in the removal direction.

[0008] Another aspect of the present invention is a cartridge, comprising: a toner storage unit including a first toner storage section configured to store toner and provided with an outlet for discharging toner; a transport member configured to transport the toner stored in the first toner storage section toward the outlet; a moving member movable relative to the first toner storage section; and an engagement section; a developing roller configured to carry toner; a second toner storage section configured to store toner and provided with a receiving port configured to communicate with the outlet; a developing frame body rotatably supporting the developing roller; and an engaged section, wherein the toner storage unit is detachably attached in a first direction. and a developing unit having a developing member that is movable between a first position and a second position in a second direction that intersects the first direction, the moving member being configured to be movable between a first position and a second position, the first position being a position where the engaging portion engages with the engaged portion so that the toner storage unit moves integrally with the developing unit when the toner storage unit is moved in the first direction, a removal direction in which the toner storage unit is removed from the developing unit, and the second position being a position where the engaging portion does not engage with the engaged portion so that the toner storage unit moves separately from the developing unit when the toner storage unit is moved in the removal direction.

[0009] Another aspect of the present invention is an image forming apparatus for forming an image on a sheet, the apparatus comprising: an apparatus main body; and a cartridge detachably attached to the apparatus main body, the cartridge including a toner storage unit having a first toner storage section configured to store toner and provided with an outlet for discharging toner, a transport member for transporting the toner stored in the first toner storage section toward the outlet, and a moving member movable relative to the first toner storage section and provided with an engagement portion; a developing roller configured to carry toner; a second toner storage section configured to store toner and provided with an inlet configured to communicate with the outlet; a developing frame body rotatably supporting the developing roller; and an engaged portion. and a developing unit to which the toner storage unit is removably attached in a first direction, the moving member being configured to be movable between a first position and a second position in a second direction intersecting the first direction, the first position being a position where the engaging portion engages with the engaged portion so that the toner storage unit moves integrally with the developing unit when the toner storage unit is moved in the first direction in a removal direction in which the toner storage unit is removed from the developing unit, and the second position being a position where the engaging portion does not engage with the engaged portion so that the toner storage unit moves separately from the developing unit when the toner storage unit is moved in the removal direction.

[0010] Another aspect of the present invention is an image forming apparatus for forming an image on a sheet, the apparatus comprising: an apparatus main body; and a cartridge detachably attached to the apparatus main body, the cartridge comprising: a toner storage unit including a first toner storage section configured to store toner and provided with an outlet for discharging toner; a transport member configured to transport the toner stored in the first toner storage section toward the outlet; a moving member movable relative to the first toner storage section; and an engagement section; a developing roller configured to carry toner; a second toner storage section configured to store toner and provided with an inlet configured to communicate with the outlet; a developing frame body rotatably supporting the developing roller; and an engaged section. and a developing unit to which the toner storage unit is removably attached in a first direction, the moving member being configured to be movable between a first position and a second position in a second direction intersecting the first direction, the first position being a position where the engaging portion engages with the engaged portion so that the toner storage unit moves integrally with the developing unit when the toner storage unit is moved in the first direction, that is, a removal direction in which the toner storage unit is removed from the developing unit, and the second position being a position where the engaging portion does not engage with the engaged portion so that the toner storage unit moves separately from the developing unit when the toner storage unit is moved in the removal direction. Effect of the Invention

[0011] According to the present invention, operability can be improved. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is an overall schematic view showing an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view showing the cartridge, and FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view showing the process cartridge with the toner cartridge removed. [Diagram 3] 4A is a perspective view showing the toner cartridge as viewed from the grip side, and FIG. 4B is a perspective view showing the toner cartridge as viewed from the discharge shutter side. [Figure 4] FIG. 2A is a perspective view showing a state in which the process cartridge is viewed from the receiving shutter side, and FIG. 2B is a perspective view in which a part of FIG. [Diagram 5] 1A is a partial cross-sectional view showing the state in which the toner cartridge has been removed from the process cartridge, FIG. 1B is a partial cross-sectional view showing the state in which the toner cartridge is being installed in the process cartridge, and FIG. 1C is a partial cross-sectional view showing the state in which the toner cartridge has been installed in the process cartridge. [Figure 6] 1A is a partially omitted perspective view showing the toner cartridge attached to the process cartridge with the engaging portion and the engaged portion not engaged, as viewed from the receiving shutter side; FIG. 1B is a perspective view showing the toner cartridge in FIG. 1A, as viewed from the discharge shutter side; [Figure 7] 1A is a partially omitted perspective view showing the toner cartridge attached to the process cartridge with the engaging portion and the engaged portion engaged, as viewed from the receiving shutter side; FIG. 1B is a perspective view showing the toner cartridge in FIG. 1A, as viewed from the discharge shutter side; [Figure 8] FIG. 4A is a perspective view showing an image forming apparatus, FIG. 4B is a perspective view showing the image forming apparatus with a cover open, and FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 4A is a perspective view showing a state in which a cartridge is accommodated in a cartridge accommodating portion, and FIG. 4B is a perspective view showing a state in which the cartridge is accommodated in the cartridge accommodating portion. [Figure 10] 1A is a partial cross-sectional view showing the state in which the cartridge has been removed from the cartridge holding section, FIG. 1B is a partial cross-sectional view showing the state in which the cartridge is in the process of being attached to the cartridge holding section, and FIG. 1C is a partial cross-sectional view showing the state in which the cartridge has been attached to the cartridge holding section. [Figure 11] 1A is a perspective view showing a state in which the toner cartridge has been removed from the process cartridge housed in a cartridge housing portion, FIG. 1B is a perspective view showing a state in which the cartridge has been removed from the cartridge housing portion, and FIG. 1C is a perspective view showing a state in which the toner cartridge has been removed from the process cartridge. [Figure 12] FIG. 2A is a perspective view showing the cartridge when a gripping portion is located at a first position, and FIG. 2B is a perspective view showing the cartridge when a gripping portion is located at a second position. [Figure 13] 1A is a perspective view showing a gripping portion according to a first modified example, FIG. 1B is a perspective view showing a gripping portion according to a second modified example, FIG. 1C is a perspective view showing a gripping portion according to a third modified example, and FIG. 1D is a perspective view showing a gripping portion according to a fourth modified example. [Figure 14] 1A is a perspective view showing a toner cartridge according to a second embodiment when the grip portion is located at a first position, and FIG. 1B is a perspective view showing a toner cartridge according to the second embodiment when the grip portion is located at a second position. [Figure 15] 10A is a perspective view showing a toner cartridge according to a third embodiment when the grip portion is located at a first position, and FIG. 10B is a perspective view showing a toner cartridge according to the third embodiment when the grip portion is located at a second position. [Figure 16] FIG. 13A is a perspective view showing a state in which a regulating lever is positioned at a regulating position in a cartridge according to a fourth embodiment, FIG. 13B is an enlarged view of FIG. 13A, and FIG. 13C is a perspective view showing a stopper release groove of a cartridge opening according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10A is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a cartridge according to a fourth embodiment has been removed from an apparatus main body, FIG. 10B is an enlarged view of FIG. 10A, FIG. 10C is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a cartridge according to a fourth embodiment has been attached to an apparatus main body, and FIG. 10D is an enlarged view of FIG. [Figure 18] 10A is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a toner cartridge is removed from a process cartridge in a cartridge according to a fifth embodiment, 10B is a perspective view showing a state in which the toner cartridge according to the fifth embodiment is viewed from an ejection shutter side, and 10C is a perspective view showing a state in which the process cartridge according to the fifth embodiment is viewed from an entrance shutter side. [Figure 19]10A is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge according to a fifth embodiment when the toner cartridge is attached to the process cartridge and the grip is located at a second position, and 10B is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge according to a fifth embodiment when the toner cartridge is attached to the process cartridge and the grip is located at a first position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] <First embodiment> [Overall configuration] First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described. An image forming apparatus 10 is an electrophotographic laser beam printer that forms a monochrome toner image. FIG 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the entire image forming apparatus 10.

[0014] In the following, directions are defined as the arrows indicating directions in Fig. 1. That is, the upper direction on the paper surface of Fig. 1 is referred to as the upper direction, the lower direction on the paper surface is referred to as the lower direction, the right direction on the paper surface is referred to as the front direction or front direction, the left direction on the paper surface is referred to as the rear direction or back direction, the front direction on the paper surface is referred to as the left direction, and the back direction on the paper surface is referred to as the right direction.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 10 includes an apparatus main body 1, a document reading unit 8, a cartridge 100, and a front cover 11 (see FIG. 8(b)). The apparatus main body 1 includes a feeding section 2 for feeding stacked sheets S, a transport section 3 for transporting the sheets S from the feeding section 2, an image forming section 4 for forming an image on the sheets S transported by the transport section 3, and a fixing section 5 for fixing the image transferred to the sheets S. Furthermore, the apparatus main body 1 includes a discharge section 6 for discharging the sheets S on which the image has been fixed to the outside of the apparatus, and a stacking section 7 for stacking the sheets S on which the image has been formed. In this embodiment, the feeding section 2 is disposed at the bottom of the apparatus main body 1. The transport section 3 is disposed in the front direction of the apparatus main body 1. The image forming section 4 is disposed in the center of the apparatus main body 1. The fixing section 5 and the discharge section 6 are disposed at the rear of the apparatus main body 1. The stacking section 7 is disposed at the top of the apparatus main body 1. The document reading unit 8 is disposed above the stacking section 7 .

[0016] The image forming apparatus includes printers, copiers, facsimiles, and multifunction machines, and refers to an apparatus that forms an image on a sheet used as a recording medium based on image information input from an external PC or image information read from an original. In addition to the main body having an image forming function, an image forming apparatus may be connected to auxiliary devices such as an optional feeder, an image reader, and a sheet processing device, and the entire system to which such auxiliary devices are connected is also a type of image forming apparatus. The sheets and originals include paper such as paper and envelopes, plastic films such as sheets for overhead projectors, cloth, etc.

[0017] [Feeding and transport section] The feeding section 2 and the conveying section 3 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. The feeding section 2 has a cassette section 20 and a pickup section 21. The cassette section 20 stacks and stores sheets S. The pickup section 21 picks up the stacked sheets S one by one. The conveying section 3 has a conveying guide 30 and a pair of conveying rollers 31. The conveying guide 30 is a guide that regulates and guides the movement trajectory of the sheet S. The pair of conveying rollers 31 is a roller pair that conveys the sheet S to the image forming section 4.

[0018] The pickup unit 21 operates in response to the image forming operation, feeds the sheets S from the cassette unit 20 one by one, and conveys them to the conveying unit 3. The sheets S are conveyed along a conveying guide 30. During the image forming operation, the conveying roller pair 31 is driven by a drive transmission means (not shown) to convey the sheets S to the image forming unit 4. The conveying roller pair 31 may be composed of a registration roller pair that corrects skew of the sheets S. In this case, the conveying roller pair 31 performs an operation of making the sheets S stand still and waiting during the image forming operation and an operation of conveying the sheets S to the image forming unit 4 in a predetermined sequence. Then, during the next process, which is the image forming process, the toner image and the sheet S are aligned.

[0019] [Image forming section] Next, the image forming unit 4 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. The image forming unit 4 has a laser scanner 40, a cartridge 100, and a transfer roller 43. The cartridge 100 has a process cartridge 41 and a toner cartridge 42. The laser scanner 40 is a latent image forming means. The laser scanner 40 irradiates a photosensitive drum 411 with laser light L, the image information of which has been processed by a processing means (not shown). The photosensitive drum 411 irradiated with the laser light L carries an electrostatic latent image on its surface.

[0020] The process cartridge 41 has a photosensitive drum 411, a charging roller 412, a developing unit 413, and a cleaning unit 414. The photosensitive drum 411 is an example of an image carrier, and carries an electrostatic latent image and a toner image. The charging roller 412 is a charging unit that applies a charging process to the photosensitive drum 411. The developing unit 413 is a developing unit that develops a toner image on the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 411. The cleaning unit 414 is a cleaning unit that cleans off residual matter remaining on the photosensitive drum 411. The transfer roller 43 is provided opposite the photosensitive drum 411, and is a transfer unit that transfers the toner image carried on the photosensitive drum 411 to a sheet S.

[0021] The developing unit 413 has a developing roller 44, a developing blade 45, a supply roller 46, an agitating member 47, and a developing chamber 62. The developing roller 44 is a toner carrying means for carrying toner, and develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 411 into a toner image. The developing blade 45 is a regulating means for regulating the layer thickness of the toner on the surface of the developing roller 44. The supply roller 46 is a supplying means for supplying the toner of the developing unit 413 to the developing roller 44. The agitating member 47 is a stirring means for agitating the toner of the developing unit 413. The developing chamber 62 is an example of a second toner storage unit, and is provided with a receiving port 41a configured to store the toner and communicate with the discharge port 42a.

[0022] The toner cartridge 42 has a toner storage section 421 and a transport paddle 422. The toner storage section 421 is an example of a first toner storage section, and is made of a substantially cylindrical container configured to store toner, and is provided with an outlet 42a for discharging the toner. In this embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge 42 is the left-right direction, that is, the direction of the rotation axis of the developing roller 44. The transport paddle 422 is a thin plate-shaped member rotatably provided inside the toner storage section 421, and is a transport means for transporting the toner stored in the toner storage section 421 to the developing section 413.

[0023] A predetermined bias is applied to the charging roller 412 by a bias application means (not shown), and the surface of the photosensitive drum 411 is charged. An electrostatic latent image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 411 by a laser beam L. The toner contained in the toner storage section 421 is transported to the developing section 413 by a transport paddle 422. The toner transported to the developing section 413 is stirred by a stirring member 47 and sent to the supply roller 46. The supply roller 46 supplies the toner to the developing roller 44. The toner supplied by the supply roller 46 is regulated in layer thickness by a developing blade 45 and is given an electric charge by frictional charging. A predetermined bias is applied to the developing roller 44 by a bias application means (not shown). The toner carried by the developing roller 44 is developed onto the electrostatic latent image by the applied bias and the potential difference of the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 411. In this manner, a toner image is carried on the photosensitive drum 411.

[0024] Here, the sheet S conveyed by the conveying unit 3 is conveyed to a transfer nip N1 between the photosensitive drum 411 and the transfer roller 43. A predetermined bias is applied to the transfer roller 43 by a bias application unit (not shown). The toner image carried on the photosensitive drum 411 is transferred to the sheet S by the potential difference of the bias applied to the transfer roller 43. The toner remaining without being transferred is scraped off the surface of the photosensitive drum 411 by the cleaning unit 414, and is cleaned and collected by a collection unit.

[0025] [Fixing section] Next, the fixing unit 5 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. The fixing unit 5 has a heating roller 51 and a pressure roller 52. The heating roller 51 is a heating means. The heating roller 51 contains a heating member (not shown), which heats the heating roller 51. The pressure roller 52 is a pressure means. The pressure roller 52 is pressed toward the heating roller 51 by a pressure means (not shown). The heating roller 51 and the pressure roller 52 are driven by a driving means (not shown). A sheet S having a toner image formed on its surface and conveyed from the image forming unit 4 is sandwiched in the fixing nip N2 between the heating roller 51 and the pressure roller 52. Here, the toner image is heated and pressed, and fixed to the sheet S.

[0026] [Discharge and loading section] Next, the discharge section 6 and the stacking section 7 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. The discharge section 6 has a discharge guide 60 and a pair of discharge rollers 61. The stacking section 7 has a discharge opening 70 and a discharge tray 71. The discharge guide 60 is a conveying guide means for the sheet S. The pair of discharge rollers 61 is an example of a discharge section, and is driven by a driving means (not shown) to discharge the sheet in a discharge direction (forward direction). The discharge opening 70 is an opening for discharging the sheet S on which the toner image has been recorded and fixed to the outside of the device main body 1. The discharge tray 71 is a stacking means for stacking the sheet S on which the toner image has been recorded and fixed. The sheet S on which the toner image has been fixed by the fixing section 5 is conveyed via the discharge guide 60 by the pair of discharge rollers 61. The sheet S is discharged from the discharge opening 70 by the pair of discharge rollers 61. The sheet S is stacked on the discharge tray 71, which is a discharge stacking means.

[0027] [Document reading unit] Next, the document reading unit 8 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. The document reading unit 8 is a document reading means for reading a document on which an image is recorded, and includes a document reading table 81 and a document pressing section 82. The document reading table 81 includes an image reading sensor (not shown) and reads image and character information recorded on the document. The read information is converted into electronic data by a control section (not shown). The electronic data can be converted by the control section to perform an image forming operation and recorded as a toner image on a sheet S. The toner image thus formed can be used as a copy image. The control section can also enlarge or reduce the image based on the electronic data. Furthermore, the electronic data can be stored and reused. When reading a document, the document is placed on the document reading table 81. Furthermore, the document is pressed down by the document pressing section 82. By pressing down the document, it can be brought into close contact with the document reading table 81, and it is expected that the reading accuracy can be improved. Then, the operation section (not shown) is operated to perform copying and record electronic data.

[0028] [Image formation operation] When an image formation command is output to the image forming apparatus 10, an image forming process is started by the image forming unit 4 based on image information input from an external computer connected to the image forming apparatus 10, the document reading unit 8, or the like. The laser scanner 40 irradiates a laser beam toward the photosensitive drum 411 based on the input image information. At this time, the photosensitive drum 411 is pre-charged by the charging roller 412, and an electrostatic latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum 411 by irradiating it with the laser beam L. Thereafter, the electrostatic latent image is developed by the developing roller 44, and a monochrome toner image is formed on the photosensitive drum 411.

[0029] In parallel with the image forming process described above, a sheet S is fed from the feeding section 2. The toner image on the photosensitive drum 411 is transferred to the sheet S, which is conveyed from the feeding section 2 through the conveying section 3, in the transfer nip N1 by the electrostatic load bias applied to the transfer roller 43. The sheet S, to which the toner image has been transferred, is applied with a predetermined heat and pressure in the fixing nip N2 by the heating roller 51 and the pressure roller 52 of the fixing section 5, so that the toner is melted and fixed (fixed). The sheet S, which has passed through the fixing section 5, is guided by the discharge guide 60 to the pair of discharge rollers 61, which then discharge the sheet S to the discharge tray 71. Through the above-mentioned series of operations, a toner image is formed on the sheet S, which is then discharged and stacked outside the apparatus main body 1. Hereinafter, this series of operations will be referred to as an image forming operation.

[0030] [Cartridge Overview] Next, an overview of the cartridge 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 2(a) and (b). The cartridge 100 has a process cartridge 41 and a toner cartridge 42. Figure 2(a) is a cross-sectional view showing an overview of the process cartridge 41 and the toner cartridge 42 in a state in which the process cartridge 41 and the toner cartridge 42 are coupled together. Figure 2(b) is a cross-sectional view showing an overview of the process cartridge 41 and the toner cartridge 42 in a state in which the process cartridge 41 and the toner cartridge are released from their coupling and separated from each other.

[0031] As shown in FIG. 2(a), the toner cartridge 42 is an example of a toner storage unit, and has an outlet 42a, a toner storage section 421, a transport paddle 422, and an operation section 423. The outlet 42a is an opening for discharging the toner stored in the toner storage section 421. The transport paddle 422 is an example of a transport member, and transports the toner stored in the toner storage section 421 toward the outlet 42a. The operation section 423 is a portion for operating the toner cartridge 42. The operation section 423 has a gripping section 48 that is a portion that a user grips during operation. In this embodiment, the gripping section 48 is in the shape of a flat plate with the front-rear direction as the surface direction. This allows the user to easily grip and operate the gripping section 48 when performing operations in the front-rear and left-right directions.

[0032] The process cartridge 41 is an example of a developing unit, and includes a photosensitive drum 411, a developing section 413, a cleaning section 414, and an attachment section 415. The process cartridge 41 also includes a housing 410, which is an example of a developing frame, and rotatably supports the developing roller 44 and the photosensitive drum 411. The attachment section 415 is a portion for detachably supporting the toner cartridge 42. The attachment section 415 includes a receiving port 41a. The receiving port 41a is an opening for receiving the toner discharged from the discharge port 42a. In this embodiment, the process cartridge 41 as a developing unit includes the photosensitive drum 411, but is not limited thereto, and may be a unit that does not include the photosensitive drum 411.

[0033] The conveying paddle 422 is supported so as to be rotatable about the rotation center 42c. The conveying paddle 422 rotates in the clockwise direction in the figure by a drive transmission means (not shown). The toner contained in the toner container 421 is conveyed toward the discharge port 42a by the conveying paddle 422. The conveyed toner passes through the discharge port 42a and the receiving port 41a and is conveyed to the developing unit 413. The stirring member 47 is supported so as to be rotatable about the rotation center 41c. The stirring member 47 rotates in the clockwise direction in the figure by a drive transmission means (not shown). The stirring member 47 stirs the toner conveyed from the toner cartridge 42 and the toner already contained in the developing unit 413. The stirred toner is conveyed toward the supply roller 46. The conveyed toner is supplied to the developing roller 44 by the supply roller 46. The toner supplied to the developing roller 44 is developed according to the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 411. Any toner that has not been transferred is removed from the photosensitive drum 411 by a cleaning blade 418 of the cleaning unit 414 and is collected in a waste toner collection unit 419 of the cleaning unit 414.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 2(b), the toner cartridge 42 has a coupling portion 424 for coupling to the process cartridge 41. The mounting portion 415 of the process cartridge 41 has a receiving shutter 53. The receiving shutter 53 is supported so as to be able to open and close the receiving port 41a. The coupling portion 424 is a portion for coupling the toner cartridge 42 to the process cartridge 41. The coupling portion 424 has a discharge shutter 54. The discharge shutter 54 is provided so as to be able to open and close the discharge port 42a.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 2(a), when the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 are connected and an image forming operation is performed, the discharge shutter 54 opens the discharge port 42a, and the receiving shutter 53 opens the receiving port 41a. As shown in FIG. 2(b), when the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 are separated, the discharge shutter 54 closes the discharge port 42a, and the receiving shutter 53 closes the receiving port 41a. That is, when the toner cartridge 42 is separated from the process cartridge 41, the openings through which the toner passes are closed by the shutter members of each cartridge. Therefore, when the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 are separated, it is possible to prevent the toner from leaking to the outside. By repeating the image forming operation, the toner contained in the toner containing section 421 is gradually consumed.

[0036] As described above, the toner cartridge 42 is configured to be detachable from the process cartridge 41. When the toner stored in the toner storage section 421 runs out, the user separates the used toner cartridge 42 from the process cartridge 41 and replaces the old toner cartridge 42 with a new toner cartridge 42. This allows the user to continuously perform the image forming operation of the image forming device 10. Furthermore, by repeatedly performing the image forming operation, the photosensitive drum 411 and each part of the process cartridge 41 gradually deteriorate. In this embodiment, the process cartridge 41 is configured to be attachable to and detachable from the apparatus main body 1. This allows the image forming operation to be performed by replacing the process cartridge 41 with a new process cartridge 41 when it deteriorates.

[0037] [Operation section and connection section] Next, the operation unit 423 and the coupling unit 424 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 3(a) and (b). Fig. 3(a) is a perspective view of the toner cartridge 42 as viewed from the left front direction. Fig. 3(b) is a perspective view of the toner cartridge 42 as viewed from the right rear direction. As shown in Fig. 3(a), the toner cartridge 42 has a housing 420, an operation unit 423, and a coupling unit 424. The housing 420 has a positioning pin 42p, which is an example of a second positioned portion. As shown in Figs. 3(a) and (b), the positioning pin 42p is formed on the left and right side end faces of the housing 420. The positioning pin 42p is a portion for positioning the toner cartridge 42 in the mounting unit 415.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 3(a), the operation unit 423 has a grip portion 48 and a connecting portion 55. The operation unit 423 is supported so as to be linearly movable together with the discharge shutter 54 in the left-right direction, which is an example of the movement direction D2 (see FIG. 9(a)). The grip portion 48 is a portion that is gripped by the user. When moving the operation unit 423 left-right or when attaching or detaching the toner cartridge 42 or the process cartridge 41 to or from the apparatus main body 1, the user grips the grip portion 48. The connecting portion 55 is a portion for connecting the grip portion 48 and the coupling portion 424.

[0039] 3(b), the toner cartridge 42 further has an outlet 42a and a connecting portion 424. The outlet 42a is formed in the housing 420. The outlet 42a is an opening for discharging the toner. The outlet 42a communicates with the toner storage portion 421, and discharges the toner stored in the toner storage portion 421.

[0040] The connecting portion 424 has a discharge shutter 54, a discharge communication port 56, an engagement hole 57, and an engagement portion 58. The connecting portion 424 is connected to the connecting portion 55 and is movable in conjunction with the operation portion 423. The discharge shutter 54 is a portion for opening and closing the discharge port 42a. The discharge communication port 56 is an opening formed in the discharge shutter 54. When the positions of the discharge communication port 56 and the discharge port 42a match, the discharge port 42a is opened and the toner can be discharged. The engagement hole 57 is an example of a shutter engagement portion, and is an engagement portion that engages with the receiving shutter 53. The engagement portion 58 is a portion for fixing the toner cartridge 42 to the mounting portion 415.

[0041] That is, the discharge shutter 54 is an example of a movable member, and is provided with an engagement portion 58 that is movable relative to the toner storage portion 421. The discharge shutter 54 is provided so as to be movable relative to the housing 420 and to move in conjunction with the grip portion 84. When the toner cartridge 42 is attached to the process cartridge 41, and the grip portion 84 is located at the first position, the discharge shutter 54 is located at the second open position that opens the discharge port 42a (see FIG. 7(b)). That is, the first position is a position where the engagement portion 58 engages with the engaged portion 65 so that the toner cartridge 42 moves integrally with the process cartridge 41 when the toner cartridge 42 is moved in the removal direction D1.

[0042] In addition, when the toner cartridge 42 is mounted in the process cartridge 41 and the gripping portion 84 is located at the second position, the discharge shutter 54 is located at the second closed position that blocks the discharge port 42a (see FIG. 3(b)). That is, the second position is a position where the engaging portion 58 does not engage with the engaged portion 65 so that the toner cartridge 42 is detached from the process cartridge 41 and moves when the toner cartridge 42 is moved in the detaching direction D1. In addition, in this embodiment, the discharge shutter 54 and the engaging portion 58 are disposed upstream of the housing 420 in the detaching direction (forward direction). Therefore, they can be easily integrated, and the configuration can be simplified. Here, if the discharge shutter 54 and the engaging portion 58 are separate members, the number of parts increases, which may lead to an increase in costs. In contrast, in this embodiment, the discharge shutter 54 and the engaging portion 58 are integrated, so that an increase in the number of parts can be suppressed and costs can be reduced.

[0043] [Installation part] Next, the mounting portion 415 will be described with reference to Figures 4(a) and (b). Figure 4(a) is a perspective view showing the exterior of the process cartridge 41. Figure 4(b) is a perspective view showing the mounting portion 415. In this figure, the outline of the process cartridge 41 is indicated by a two-dot chain line, and the mounting portion 415 is indicated by a solid line.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 4(a), a positioning pin 40p and a guide pin 41p are provided on the left end surface of the process cartridge 41. Although not shown, a positioning pin 40p and a guide pin 41p are provided on the right end surface of the process cartridge 41, similar to the left end surface. The positioning pin 40p is a portion for positioning the process cartridge 41 in the apparatus main body 1. The guide pin 41p is an example of a first positioned portion, and is a portion for regulating the attitude of the process cartridge 41. In addition, a mounting portion 415 is provided on the front end side of the process cartridge 41.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 4(b), the mounting portion 415 has a receiving port 41a, a receiving shutter 53, an engaged portion 65, and a guide 59. The receiving port 41a is an opening for receiving toner. The toner discharged from the toner cartridge 42 is received into the developing chamber 62 through the receiving port 41a. The receiving shutter 53 is a part for opening and closing the receiving port 41a. The receiving shutter 53 is supported so as to be movable left and right. In the figure, the receiving shutter 53 is in a state of being moved to the left. At this time, the receiving shutter 53 closes the receiving port 41a.

[0046] The receiving shutter 53 has a rib 63 and a receiving communication port 64. The rib 63 is an example of a shutter engaged portion, and is a portion that engages with the engagement hole 57. The receiving communication port 64 is aligned with the receiving port 41a to open the receiving port 41a. The receiving communication port 64 and the receiving port 41a are in communication with each other, so that the toner can be received.

[0047] The engaged portion 65 is a portion that engages with the engaging portion 58, and is fixed to the housing 410. The discharge shutter 54 moves, and the engaged portion 65 engages with the engaging portion 58. This couples the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41. When the discharge shutter 54 is in a position where the engagement between the engaged portion 65 and the engaging portion 58 is released, the coupling of the toner cartridge 42 is released, and the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 can be separated.

[0048] The guide 59 is a groove-shaped portion provided on the left and right inner walls of the mounting portion 415. The guide 59 has a biasing spring 66, which is an example of a second biasing portion, and a positioning portion 67, which is an example of a second positioning portion. The guide 59 is a portion that guides the toner cartridge 42 to be attached to and detached from the mounting portion 415. The positioning portion 67 is a portion for positioning the toner cartridge 42 in the mounting portion 415. The positioning portion 67 and the positioning pin 42p are in a fitting relationship. The positioning portion 67 abuts against the positioning pin 42p to position the toner cartridge 42, thereby positioning the toner cartridge 42 in a state where it is attached to the process cartridge 41. The biasing spring 66 is a leaf spring for pressing the positioning pin 42p against the positioning portion 67. When the toner cartridge 42 is mounted in the mounting portion 415, the positioning pin 42p fits into the positioning portion 67 and is pressed by the biasing spring 66, so that the toner cartridge 42 is appropriately positioned. That is, the biasing spring 66 biases the positioning pin 42 p so as to abut against the positioning portion 67 .

[0049] That is, the receiving shutter 53 is provided so as to be movable relative to the housing 410 and to be interlocked with the grip portion 84. When the toner cartridge 42 is attached to the process cartridge 41 and the grip portion 84 is located at the first position, the receiving shutter 53 is located at the first open position that opens the receiving port 41a (see FIG. 7(a)). When the toner cartridge 42 is attached to the process cartridge 41 and the grip portion 84 is located at the second position, the receiving shutter 53 is located at the first closed position that closes the receiving port 41a (see FIG. 4(b)).

[0050] [Installing and removing the toner cartridge] Next, the manner in which the toner cartridge 42 is attached to and detached from the mounting portion 415 of the process cartridge 41 will be described with reference to Figs. 5(a) to (c). Figs. 5(a) to (c) are schematic diagrams showing the manner in which the toner cartridge 42 is attached to and detached from the process cartridge 41. Fig. 5(a) shows a state in which the toner cartridge 42 has been removed from the mounting portion 415. Hereinafter, this state will be referred to as the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 being separated. Fig. 5(b) shows a state in which the toner cartridge 42 is in the middle of being attached to the mounting portion 415. Fig. 5(c) shows a state in which the toner cartridge 42 has been attached to the mounting portion 415. Hereinafter, this state will be referred to as the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 being coupled.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 5(a), to mount the toner cartridge 42 in the mounting section 415, the user holds the gripping portion 48 facing forward, and moves the toner cartridge 42 backward toward the mounting section 415 so as to align the positioning pin 42p with the guide 59. That is, the mounting direction of the toner cartridge 42 is the rearward direction. When the toner cartridge 42 is further moved backward, the positioning pin 42p engages with the guide 59, as shown in FIG. 5(b), and the toner cartridge 42 moves backward inside the mounting section 415 while being guided by the guide 59. When the toner cartridge 42 is further moved backward, the positioning pin 42p overcomes the urging spring 66, and as shown in FIG. 5(c), the positioning pin 42p engages with the positioning portion 67 and is positioned. At this time, the positioning pin 42p is urged backward by the urging spring 66 that has been overcome. Therefore, the toner cartridge 42 is appropriately positioned and mounted in the mounting section 415. Furthermore, when removing the toner cartridge 42 from the mounting portion 415, the reverse operations are performed as shown in the order of Figures 5(c), (b), and (a), and the positioning pin 42p is moved forward over the biasing spring 66 and guided by the guide 59.

[0052] In this embodiment, the attachment / detachment direction in which the user attaches / detaches the toner cartridge 42 to / from the process cartridge 41 is defined as the first direction, and in particular the direction in which the user removes the toner cartridge 42 from the process cartridge 41 is defined as the removal direction D1. In this embodiment, the attachment / detachment direction is the front-rear direction, and the removal direction D1 of the toner cartridge 42 is the front direction (see FIG. 9(a)). Also, the movement direction D2 in which the grip portion 48 and the discharge shutter 54 move is an example of the second direction, and intersects with the attachment / detachment direction. Note that in this embodiment, the movement direction D2 and the removal direction D1 are perpendicular to each other. Also, in this embodiment, when the cartridge 100 is in an attachment position to the apparatus main body 1, the movement direction D2 is a direction that intersects with the direction of gravity.

[0053] [Operation of the discharge shutter and the receiving shutter] Next, the movements of the discharge shutter 54 and the receiving shutter 53 will be described with reference to Figs. 6(a) to 7(b). Figs. 6(a) to 7(b) are perspective views showing the mounting part 415 and the coupling part 424. Figs. 6(a) and (b) show a state in which the engaged part 65 and the engaging part 58 are disengaged. Figs. 7(a) and (b) show a state in which the engaged part 65 and the engaging part 58 are engaged. Fig. 6(a) is a perspective view of the mounting part 415 seen from the left front side. In this figure, the shape of the grip part 48 and its surroundings is indicated by a two-dot chain line. Fig. 6(b) is a perspective view showing the coupling part 424. Fig. 6(a) is a perspective view seen from the left front side, and Fig. 6(b) is a perspective view seen from the right rear side.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 6(a), when the toner cartridge 42 is mounted in the mounting portion 415, the engagement hole 57 engages with the rib 63. That is, when the toner cartridge 42 is mounted in the process cartridge 41, the rib 63 engages with the engagement hole 57, and interlocks the discharge shutter 54 and the receiving shutter 53. Therefore, when the grip portion 48 is moved left or right, the discharge shutter 54 and the receiving shutter 53 move left or right in interlocking fashion. As shown in the figure, when the grip portion 48 is on the left side, the receiving opening 41a is closed by the receiving shutter 53. At this time, as shown in FIG. 6(b), the discharge shutter 54 moves to the left side and closes the discharge opening 42a. Hereinafter, this state is referred to as the receiving shutter 53 and the discharge shutter 54 being in the closed position. Also, as shown in FIG. 6(a), the engagement between the engaged portion 65 and the engaging portion 58 is released. Hereinafter, the engaging portion 58 in this state is referred to as being in the released position. That is, the release position is a position where the engagement with the engaged portion 65 is released to allow the toner cartridge 42 to be removed from the process cartridge 41. Furthermore, the position of the grip portion 48 when the engaging portion 58 is in the release position and the receiving shutter 53 and the discharging shutter 54 are in the closed position is hereinafter referred to as the second position.

[0055] FIG. 7(a) is a perspective view of the mounting portion 415 as viewed from the left front side. In the figure, the shape of the gripping portion 48 and its surroundings are indicated by a two-dot chain line. FIG. 7(b) is a perspective view of the coupling portion 424. FIG. 7(a) is a perspective view as viewed from the left front side, and FIG. 7(b) is a perspective view as viewed from the right rear side. As shown in FIG. 7(a), when the gripping portion 48 is on the right side, the receiving shutter 53 opens the receiving opening 41a. At this time, as shown in FIG. 7(b), the discharge shutter 54 moves to the right side and opens the discharge opening 42a. Hereinafter, this state is referred to as the receiving shutter 53 and the discharge shutter 54 being in the open position. Also, as shown in FIG. 7(a), the engaged portion 65 and the engaging portion 58 are engaged, and hereinafter, the engaging portion 58 in this state is referred to as being in the engaged position. That is, the engagement position is a position where, with the toner cartridge 42 attached to the process cartridge 41, the toner cartridge 42 engages with the engaged portion 65 to restrict removal of the toner cartridge 42 from the process cartridge 41. Furthermore, the position of the grip portion 48 when the engagement portion 58 is in the engagement position and the receiving shutter 53 and the discharging shutter 54 are in the open position is hereinafter referred to as a first position.

[0056] That is, the grip portion 84 is interlocked with the engaging portion 58 and can move in the movement direction D2 between a first position where the engaging portion 58 is located at the engaging position and a second position where the engaging portion 58 is located at the releasing position. In this embodiment, the grip portion 84 is provided at the downstream end of the housing 420 in the removal direction (front direction). Therefore, the user can easily access the grip portion 84 from the front side of the device main body 1. In addition, when the grip portion 84 moves from the second position to the first position, the housing 410 and the housing 420 are communicated with each other via the discharge port 42a and the receiving port 41a. When the grip portion 84 moves from the first position to the second position, the communication between the housing 410 and the housing 420 is blocked.

[0057] As described above, when the gripping portion 48 is in the first position, the engaging portion 58 moves to the fixed position. Therefore, the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 are coupled together. At this time, the discharge shutter 54 and the receiving shutter 53 are in the open position, so that the discharge opening 42a and the receiving opening 41a are opened. Therefore, the toner contained in the toner cartridge 42 can be transported to the process cartridge 41.

[0058] Furthermore, when the gripping portion 48 is in the second position, the engaging portion 58 moves to the release position. Therefore, the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 are released from the connection, and can be separated. At this time, the discharge shutter 54 and the receiving shutter 53 are in the closed position, so that they close the discharge opening 42a and the receiving opening 41a. Therefore, even if the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 are separated, it is possible to prevent the toner from leaking to the outside.

[0059] In this embodiment, the shutters of the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 are set to directly engage with each other. Also, the engagement hole 57, which is the engagement portion of the discharge shutter 54, is made concave, and the rib 63, which is the engagement portion of the discharge shutter 54, is made convex. By setting the shape in this way, it is possible to prevent the joint portion 424 of the toner cartridge 42 from having a protruding portion, as shown in FIG. 6(b). Since the joint portion 424 of the toner cartridge 42 does not have a protruding portion, the packaging box for the toner cartridge 42 can be made smaller. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 6(a), the rib 63 is disposed inside the mounting portion 415. Therefore, even if the rib 63 has a protruding shape, it does not affect the size of the packaging box.

[0060] 6(a) to 7(b), the discharge shutter 54 and the engaging portion 58 are disposed on the same surface. The receiving shutter 53 and the engaged portion 65 are disposed on the same surface facing the discharge shutter 54 and the engaging portion 58. This arrangement makes it possible to integrate the discharge shutter 54 and the engaging portion 58. Integration makes it possible to reduce parts costs and assembly costs.

[0061] [Installing and removing the process cartridge] Next, the attachment and detachment of the process cartridge 41 will be described with reference to Fig. 8(a) to Fig. 10(c). Fig. 8(a) to (c) are diagrams showing the external appearance of the apparatus main body 1, the front cover 11, and the cartridge opening 12. Fig. 9(a) and (b) are perspective views showing the state in which the process cartridge 41 is attached to and detached from the apparatus main body 1. Fig. 10(a) to (c) are schematic diagrams showing the state in which the process cartridge 41 is attached to and detached from the apparatus main body 1.

[0062] The apparatus main body 1 has a front cover 11 disposed downstream of the apparatus main body 1 in the forward direction, which is the ejection direction, and opens and closes a cartridge opening 12 through which the cartridge 100 passes when the cartridge is attached to or detached from the apparatus main body 1. The front cover 11 is an example of a door. The front cover 11 is configured so that the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 can be attached and detached together through the cartridge opening 12 in the open state. Moreover, the front cover 11 is configured so that the toner cartridge 42 can be attached and detached to the process cartridge 41 through the cartridge opening 12 in the open state. The front cover 11 constitutes an exterior surface of the image forming apparatus 10 in a state in which the cartridge opening 12 is closed. Furthermore, when the process cartridge 41 is attached to the apparatus main body 1 and the toner cartridge 42 is attached to the process cartridge 41, the front cover 11 is configured so that it can close the cartridge opening 12 without interfering with the cartridge 100. In addition, when the process cartridge 41 is mounted in the device main body 1 and the toner cartridge 42 is mounted in the process cartridge 41, the toner cartridge 42 is configured to enter the device main body 1 and not be exposed to the outside of the image forming device 10.

[0063] FIG. 8(a) is a perspective view showing a state in which the front cover 11 is closed. FIG. 8(b) is a perspective view showing a state in which the front cover 11 is opened and the cartridge opening 12 is exposed. FIG. 8(c) is a schematic view showing the inside of the cartridge opening 12. As shown in FIG. 8(a), the apparatus main body 1 has the front cover 11 on the front side. The front cover 11 is a cartridge cover. The front cover 11 is supported so as to be openable and closable. This figure shows a state in which the front cover 11 closes the cartridge opening 12. As shown in FIG. 8(b), when the front cover 11 is opened, the cartridge opening 12 is exposed. The cartridge opening 12 is an opening for attaching and detaching the process cartridge 41 or the toner cartridge 42. In this embodiment, the process cartridge 41 or the toner cartridge 42 is removable in a direction along the horizontal direction with respect to the apparatus main body 1 and in a removal direction (forward direction).

[0064] As shown in FIG. 8(c), the cartridge opening 12 has a guide 121, a positioning portion 122, and a biasing spring 123. The guide 121 is a groove-shaped portion formed on the left and right inner walls of the cartridge opening 12, and serves as a guide portion when the process cartridge 41 is attached and detached. The positioning portion 122 is a portion formed at the rear end of the guide 121, and serves as a portion for positioning the process cartridge 41 in the apparatus main body 1. The positioning portion 122 is an example of a first positioning portion, and positions the process cartridge 41 in a state where it is attached to the apparatus main body 1 by abutting against the guide pin 41p. The biasing spring 123 is an elastic member assembled to the positioning portion 122, and serves as a pressing member when the process cartridge 41 is positioned in the positioning portion 122. The biasing spring 123 is an example of a first biasing portion, and biases the guide pin 41p so as to abut against the positioning portion 122. The guide 121 and the positioning portion 122 are set so as to fit with the positioning pin 40p. By fitting the positioning pin 40p with the positioning portion 122, the process cartridge 41 is appropriately positioned in the apparatus main body 1.

[0065] FIG. 9(a) shows a state in which the process cartridge 41 is outside the apparatus main body 1. FIG. 9(b) shows a state in which the process cartridge 41 is attached to the apparatus main body 1. As shown in FIGS. 9(a) and 9(b), when the process cartridge 41 is attached to or detached from the apparatus main body 1, the process cartridge 41 is attached in a state in which the toner cartridge 42 is coupled. As shown in FIG. 9(a), when the process cartridge 41 is attached to the apparatus main body 1, the gripping portion 48 faces forward. Next, the positioning pin 40p is directed backward and moved toward the cartridge opening 12. Then, the position of the positioning pin 40p and the guide 121 are aligned, and the process cartridge 41 is moved backward and inserted into the cartridge opening 12.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 9(b), when the process cartridge 41 is mounted in the apparatus body 1 and the toner cartridge 42 is mounted in the process cartridge 41, the entire toner cartridge 42 is housed inside the apparatus body 1. When the process cartridge 41 is mounted in the apparatus body 1, a grip portion 48 is exposed in front of the cartridge opening 12. When removing the process cartridge 41 or the toner cartridge 42 from the apparatus body 1, it is possible to remove them by gripping the grip portion 48. When removing or attaching the process cartridge 41, the grip portion 48 is moved to the first position.

[0067] FIG. 10(a) shows a state in which the process cartridge 41 is outside the apparatus main body 1. FIG. 10(b) shows a state in which the process cartridge 41 is in the middle of being attached to or detached from the apparatus main body 1. FIG. 10(c) shows a state in which the process cartridge 41 has been attached to the apparatus main body 1. As shown in FIG. 10(a), when the user attaches the process cartridge 41 to the apparatus main body 1, the user orients the positioning pin 40p toward the cartridge opening 12. Next, the user moves the process cartridge 41 backward to align the position of the positioning pin 40p with the guide 121. The user then inserts the process cartridge 41 into the cartridge opening 12 in this state.

[0068] 10B, the user moves the positioning pin 40p and the guide pin 41p along the guide 121, thereby restricting the movement trajectory of the process cartridge 41. Furthermore, the posture of the process cartridge 41 during movement is stabilized. If the user continues to move the process cartridge 41 backward in this state, the positioning pin 40p passes through while pushing up the urging spring 123.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 10(c), the positioning pin 40p moves to the positioning portion 122. At this time, the positioning pin 40p and the positioning portion 122 are set to fit together, so that the process cartridge 41 is appropriately positioned in the apparatus main body 1. As shown in the figure, the biasing spring 123 is set to press the positioning pin 40p backward. Therefore, the positioning pin 40p is pressed against the positioning portion 122. Due to this action, the process cartridge 41 is appropriately positioned in the apparatus main body 1.

[0070] The process cartridge 41 can be attached and detached, for example, when a sheet S is stuck inside the device body 1 (so-called jam). When a jam occurs, the user opens the front cover 11. Next, the user removes the process cartridge 41 to the outside of the device body 1. After removing the sheet S that has accumulated inside the device body 1, the user attaches the process cartridge 41 to the device body 1 and closes the front cover 11. Also, when the process cartridge 41 reaches the end of its life, the user can replace the process cartridge 41 that has reached the end of its life with a new process cartridge 41. At this time, the toner cartridge 42 is removed from the device body 1 with the toner cartridge 42 still connected. At this time, if toner remains in the toner cartridge 42 that is currently in use, the toner cartridge 42 that is currently in use can be attached to the new process cartridge 41, and then attached to the device body 1.

[0071] [How to switch the cartridge to be removed] Next, a method for switching the cartridge to be removed from the apparatus main body 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5(a) to (c), FIGS. 9(a) and (b), and FIGS. 11(a) to (c). FIGS. 11(a) to (c) are perspective views showing a method for switching the cartridge to be removed from the apparatus main body 1. FIG. 11(a) shows a state in which the toner cartridge 42 is removed alone from the apparatus main body 1. FIG. 11(b) shows a state in which the process cartridge 41 combined with the toner cartridge 42 is removed from the apparatus main body 1. FIG. 11(c) shows a state in which the toner cartridge 42 is separated from the process cartridge 41.

[0072] As shown in FIGS. 5(a) to (c), the biasing spring 66 presses the toner cartridge 42 in the mounting direction (forward direction) with a pressing force F1 (biasing force). As shown in FIG. 10(c), the biasing spring 123 presses the process cartridge 41 in the mounting direction (forward direction) with a pressing force F2 (biasing force). Each pressing force is set such that F1 < F2.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 11(a), when the gripping portion 48 is moved from the first position to the second position, the connection between the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 is released, and the gripping portion 48 is pulled forward, the toner cartridge 42 can be removed alone from the apparatus main body 1. As described above, since F1 < F2, when the engagement between the engaged portion 65 and the engaging portion 58 is released, the toner cartridge 42 can be removed alone while the process cartridge 41 remains mounted on the apparatus main body 1. That is, the toner cartridge 42 is removed from the process cartridge 41 by the user operating in the detachment direction D1 (forward direction) intersecting the movement direction D2 (left - right direction) while maintaining the gripping portion 84 at the second position. At this time, since the discharge port 42a and the receiving port 41a are closed by the discharge shutter 54 and the receiving shutter 53, leakage of toner to the outside can be suppressed.

[0074] When mounting the toner cartridge 42 in the process cartridge 41 again, the reverse operation is performed. After mounting, the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 are coupled by moving the grip portion 48 from the second position to the first position. Furthermore, the discharge opening 42a and the receiving opening 41a are moved to the open position by the discharge shutter 54 and the receiving shutter 53, so that the toner contained in the toner cartridge 42 can be conveyed to the process cartridge 41. As shown in FIG. 11(b), when the grip portion 48 is in the first position and is pulled out toward the user, the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 can be removed from the apparatus main body 1 in a coupled state. That is, the process cartridge 41 and the toner cartridge 42 are moved integrally in the removal direction by the user operating the grip portion 48 in the removal direction D1 while maintaining the grip portion 84 in the first position.

[0075] When replacing the process cartridge 41 with a new one, the user removes the cartridge 100 from the apparatus main body 1 with the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 still connected, and then separates the toner cartridge 42 from the process cartridge 41. As shown in FIG. 11(c), the user moves the gripping portion 48 of the removed cartridge 100 from the first position to the second position, and moves the toner cartridge 42 in the removal direction relative to the process cartridge 41 to remove it. Then, after replacing the process cartridge 41 with a new one, the user mounts the toner cartridge 42 that was being used up until then in the mounting portion 415. Furthermore, the user moves the gripping portion 48 to the first position to couple the cartridges together, and mounts the cartridge 100 in the apparatus main body 1, thereby completing the replacement operation.

[0076] [Display cartridge to be removed] Next, the display of the cartridge to be removed will be described with reference to Figures 12(a) and (b). Figures 12(a) and (b) are partially enlarged perspective views of the process cartridge 41 to which the toner cartridge 42 is coupled. Figure 12(a) shows a state in which the grip part 48 is located at a first position. Figure 12(b) shows a state in which the grip part 48 is located at a second position. Here, the operating part 423 is an example of a cover part, and is provided movably with respect to the housing 420, and is linked to the grip part 84 and the engaging part 58.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 12(a), the housing 420 has a drum icon 69 which is a notification means for notifying the user of a cartridge to be attached or detached. The drum icon 69 is provided on the left side of the operation unit 423. When the grip portion 48 is in the first position, the drum icon 69 is moved to the right side in the figure. That is, the drum icon 69 is an example of a first display unit, and is covered by the operation unit 423 when the grip portion 84 is in the second position, and is exposed from the operation unit 423 when the grip portion 84 is in the first position. In this way, the drum icon 69 indicates that removal of the toner cartridge 42 from the process cartridge 41 is restricted.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 12(b), the housing 420 has a toner icon 68 which is a notification means for notifying the user of a cartridge to be attached or detached. The toner icon 68 is provided on the right side of the operation unit 423. When the grip portion 48 is in the second position, the toner icon 68 is moved to the left side in the figure. That is, the toner icon 68 is an example of a second display unit, and is covered by the operation unit 423 when the grip portion 84 is in the first position, and is exposed from the operation unit 423 when the grip portion 84 is in the second position. In this way, the toner icon 68 indicates that removal of the toner cartridge 42 from the process cartridge 41 is permitted.

[0079] 12(a), when the grip portion 48 is in the first position, the operation portion 423 is moved to the right. At this time, the toner icon 68 on the right side of the operation portion 423 is covered by the operation portion 423. Therefore, the toner icon 68 cannot be seen. On the other hand, when the grip portion 48 is in the first position, the drum icon 69, which is the first indication, can be seen. In other words, when the grip portion 48 is in the first position, the drum icon 69 can be seen, and it is possible to inform the user that the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 can be attached and detached in a coupled state.

[0080] 12(b), when the grip portion 48 is in the second position, the operation portion 423 moves to the left. At this time, the drum icon 69 on the left side of the operation portion 423 is covered by the operation portion 423. Therefore, the drum icon 69 cannot be seen. On the other hand, when the grip portion 48 is in the second position, the toner icon 68, which is the second indication, can be seen. In other words, when the grip portion 48 is in the second position, the toner icon 68 is visible, and it is possible to inform the user that the toner cartridge 42 can be attached and detached.

[0081] As described above, when the grip portion 48 is in the first position, the drum icon 69 is displayed, which indicates that the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 can be attached and detached in a coupled state. When the grip portion 48 is in the second position, the toner icon 68 is displayed, which indicates that the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 are released from the coupling and the toner cartridge 42 can be attached and detached alone. In this way, by switching the display depending on the position of the grip portion 48, the user can be informed of which cartridge is removable when performing an attachment or detachment operation.

[0082] As described above, according to the cartridge 100 of the present embodiment, when the toner cartridge 42 is mounted in the process cartridge 41 and the grip portion 84 is located at the second position, the toner cartridge 42 is removed from the process cartridge 41 by operating the grip portion 84 in the removal direction D1 while maintaining the grip portion 84 at the second position. Also, when the toner cartridge 42 is mounted in the process cartridge 41 and the grip portion 84 is located at the first position, the process cartridge 41 and the toner cartridge 42 are moved together in the removal direction by operating the grip portion 84 in the removal direction while maintaining the grip portion 84 at the first position. That is, according to the cartridge 100 of the present embodiment, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus 10 with simple usability in which the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 are attached and detached by operating the grip portion 48. More specifically, the operation of switching the cartridge to be replaced, the operation of opening and closing the shutter associated with this operation, and the operation of attaching and detaching the cartridge from the opening can all be performed by operating the grip portion 48. This allows the operation of switching the cartridge to be removed and the operation of installing and removing the cartridge to be replaced selected by the switching operation to be performed using the same gripping portion 84, eliminating user confusion and improving operability.

[0083] Furthermore, according to the cartridge 100 of this embodiment, when the toner contained in the toner cartridge 42 is consumed, it can be replaced with the process cartridge 41 still attached to the apparatus main body 1. The toner cartridge 42 is smaller and lighter than the process cartridge 41. Therefore, it is easier to handle than the attachment and detachment operation when the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 are combined.

[0084] According to the cartridge 100 of this embodiment, the attachment / detachment direction of the toner cartridge 42 is the front-rear direction. Meanwhile, the direction in which the gripping portion 48 is moved to connect or disconnect the process cartridge 41 and the toner cartridge 42 is the left-right direction. In this way, by making the attachment / detachment direction of each cartridge and the moving direction of the toner gripping portion different, malfunctions can be prevented.

[0085] 11(a) to (c), the front cover 11 and the cartridge opening 12 are disposed on the front surface of the apparatus main body 1. This surface is a side surface of the apparatus main body 1, and is a side surface perpendicular to the axis of the photosensitive drum 411. The front cover 11 can be opened and closed without any problem even when the sheets S are loaded on the loading section 7. Also, the front cover 11 can be opened and closed without moving the document reading unit 8.

[0086] Furthermore, the cartridge opening 12 is an opening for mounting and removing the toner cartridge 42 alone. Also, the cartridge opening 12 is an opening for mounting and removing the process cartridge 41 to which the toner cartridge 42 is coupled. When mounting and removing the toner cartridge 42 or the process cartridge 41 from the apparatus main body 1, the user can start the operation of mounting and removing these cartridges by performing the procedure of opening the front cover 11. Then, it is possible to select the cartridge to be mounted and removed by moving the gripping portion 48 between the first position and the second position.

[0087] Furthermore, when installing or removing the toner cartridge 42 or the process cartridge 41, the user always grips the grip portion 48. More specifically, when performing either a switching operation for switching the cartridge to be installed or removed, or an installation or removal operation for installing or removing a cartridge selected from the apparatus main body 1, the user accesses the grip portion 48. This simplifies the operation because the user only needs to remember the operation of first accessing the grip portion 48 when operating the cartridge 100.

[0088] <Modification of the first embodiment> In the above-described embodiment, the grip portion 48 is described as being flat with the front-rear direction as the surface direction, but is not limited thereto. As described in the present embodiment, the grip portion 48 is the part that the user operates first when switching or attaching / detaching the cartridge 100 to be attached / detached. Therefore, it is desirable that the grip portion 48 is highly visible and easy to grip. For this reason, the grip portion 48 may have a shape as shown in, for example, FIGS. 13(a) to 13(d).

[0089] In FIG. 13(a), the gripping portion 48A is textured. The texture can improve visibility. The texture can also reduce slippage. The gripping portion 48A can be painted to improve visibility. Slippage can be reduced by selecting an anti-slip paint that contains aggregate. Two-tone molding of elastomer or the like can improve visibility and reduce slippage.

[0090] As shown in FIG. 13(b), a space may be provided between grip portion 48B and connecting portion 55. This can improve visibility. Also, by inserting a finger into this space, it becomes possible to firmly grip grip portion 48. As shown in FIG. 13(c), multiple ribs may be provided on grip portion 48C. This can improve visibility. By gripping multiple ribs, it becomes possible to reduce slippage.

[0091] As shown in FIG. 13(d), a wavy rib shape may be formed on the gripping portion 48D. This can improve visibility. The wavy shape also has the effect of guiding the fingers into the gripping portion 48D. By fitting the fingers to the wavy shape, the gripping portion 48D can be firmly gripped. Furthermore, these shapes can be combined or other shapes can be used, and they can be selected as appropriate.

[0092] <Second embodiment> Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described, which is configured by modifying the mechanism of the operation unit 423 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the same configuration as the first embodiment will be omitted from the illustrations or will be described by using the same reference numerals in the drawings.

[0093] In the first embodiment, the grip portion 48 is configured to move in the left-right direction. In this embodiment, when the grip portion 48 moves to the right, it is in the first position, where the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 are connected. When the grip portion 48 moves to the left, it is in the second position, where the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 can be separated.

[0094] The operation unit 423E of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 6(b), 7(b), 14(a) and 14(b). Figs. 14(a) and 14(b) are perspective views showing the operation unit 423E of this embodiment. Fig. 14(a) shows a state in which the gripping unit 48E is in a first position. In this configuration, the coupling unit 424 has the same configuration as that of Fig. 7(b), and therefore the description thereof will be omitted. Fig. 14(b) shows a state in which the gripping unit 48E is in a second position. In this configuration, the coupling unit 424 has the same configuration as that of Fig. 6(b), and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0095] As shown in FIG. 14(a), the operating part 423E has a grip part 48E, a connecting part 55, a cam follower 72, a cam plate 73, and a cam 74. The cam follower 72 is a boss formed on the connecting part 55. The cam 74 is a groove formed on the cam plate 73. The cam follower 72 engages with the cam 74. The cam plate 73 is assembled to the grip part 48E. The grip part 48E is supported by a mechanism (not shown) so as to be movable only in the vertical direction, and the figure shows a state in which the grip part 48E is positioned on the lower side. At this time, the operating part 423E has moved to the right, and the discharge port 42a and the discharge communication port 56 are aligned. Also, as shown in FIG. 7(b), the engaging part 58 has moved to the right, so that it engages with the engaged part 65.

[0096] As shown in FIG. 14(b), when gripping portion 48E is moved upward, cam plate 73 also moves upward. As shown in the figure, cam 74 is formed at an angle. Therefore, cam follower 72 engaging with cam 74 moves to the left. Since cam follower 72 is a part formed on connecting portion 55, connecting portion 55 moves to the left. Then, as shown in the figure, discharge port 42a is closed by discharge shutter 54. At this time, as shown in FIG. 6(b), engaging portion 58 moves to the left, and therefore engagement with engaged portion 65 is released.

[0097] As described above, in this embodiment, the grip portion 48E is set to move in the vertical direction. When the grip portion 48E is on the lower side, the discharge outlet 42a is open and the engagement portion 58 is in the engagement position. That is, when the grip portion 48E is on the lower side, the first position is reached. On the other hand, when the grip portion 48E is on the upper side, the discharge outlet 42a is closed and the engagement portion 58 is in the release position. That is, when the grip portion 48E is on the upper side, the second position is reached.

[0098] In this embodiment, the cartridge 100 is attached and detached through the cartridge opening 12, as in the first embodiment. The attachment and detachment direction of the cartridge 100 is the front-rear direction. Therefore, the attachment and detachment direction of the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 and the movement direction of the gripping portion 48E for selecting the cartridge to be attached and detached are approximately perpendicular to each other.

[0099] <Third embodiment> Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. The third embodiment is configured by modifying the mechanism of the operation unit 423 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the same configuration as the first embodiment will be omitted from the illustrations or will be described by using the same reference numerals in the drawings.

[0100] An operation unit 423F according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 6(b), 7(b), 15(a) and 15(b). Figs. 15(a) and 15(b) are perspective views showing the operation unit 423F. Fig. 15(a) shows a state in which the gripping unit 48F is in a first position. In this configuration, the coupling unit 424 has the same configuration as that in Fig. 7(b), and therefore the description thereof will be omitted. Fig. 15(b) shows a state in which the gripping unit 48F is in a second position. In this configuration, the coupling unit 424 has the same configuration as that in Fig. 6(b), and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0101] As shown in FIG. 15(a), the operating part 423F has a grip part 48F, a connecting part 55, a pinion part 75, and a rack part 76. The pinion part 75 is a drive transmitting part assembled to the grip part 48F. The rack part 76 is a driven part formed on the connecting part 55. As shown in the figure, the pinion part 75 and the rack part 76 mesh with each other. The pinion part 75 is driven to transmit the drive to the rack part 76. The drive transmitted to the rack part 76 moves the rack part 76 left and right. The connection part 55 moves left and right in conjunction with the movement of the rack part 76. The grip part 48F is supported rotatably. The phase of the grip part 48F shown in the figure represents a state where it has rotated most clockwise. At this time, the operating part 423F has moved to the right, and the discharge port 42a and the discharge communication port 56 are aligned. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 7(b), the engaging portion 58 has moved to the right and is therefore engaged with the engaged portion 65.

[0102] As shown in Fig. 15(b), when the gripping portion 48F rotates counterclockwise in the figure, the pinion portion 75 is also driven to rotate counterclockwise in the figure. This driving force is transmitted to the rack portion 76, and the connecting portion 55 moves to the left. Then, as shown in the figure, the discharge port 42a is closed by the discharge shutter 54. At this time, as shown in Fig. 6(b), the engaging portion 58 moves to the left, and the shape with the engaged portion 65 is released.

[0103] As described above, in this embodiment, the grip portion 48F is supported rotatably. When the grip portion 48F is rotated clockwise in the figure, the outlet 42a is opened and the engagement portion 58 moves to the engagement position. That is, when the grip portion 48F is fully rotated clockwise in the figure, it is in the first position. When the grip portion 48F is rotated counterclockwise from this state, the outlet 42a is closed and the engagement portion 58 is in the release position. That is, when the grip portion 48F is fully rotated counterclockwise in the figure, it is in the second position.

[0104] As described above in the second and third embodiments, the movement of the gripping parts 48E, 48F may be vertical or rotational. These directions are substantially perpendicular to the mounting and demounting directions of the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41. Therefore, as described in the first embodiment, malfunctions can be prevented during switching and mounting and demounting operations.

[0105] <Fourth embodiment> Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. The fourth embodiment is configured by providing a separation restriction portion 416 to the first embodiment. Therefore, the same configuration as the first embodiment will be omitted from the illustrations or will be described by using the same reference numerals in the drawings.

[0106] The fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 16(a) to Fig. 17(d). Fig. 16(a) to (c) are perspective views showing a process cartridge 41 to which a toner cartridge 42 is coupled, and a cartridge opening 12. Fig. 16(a) is a perspective view showing a process cartridge 41 to which a toner cartridge 42 is coupled. Fig. 16(b) is a partial enlarged view of a portion enclosed by an ellipse in Fig. 16(a). Fig. 16(c) is a perspective view showing the cartridge opening 12.

[0107] As shown in FIG. 16(a), the mounting portion 415 has a separation regulating portion 416. The separation regulating portion 416 is disposed in front of the mounting portion 415 and on the left side of the connecting portion 55. As shown in FIG. 16(b), the separation regulating portion 416 has a regulating member 425 and a support portion 426 that supports the regulating member 425 so that it can swing. The regulating member 425 has a stopper 427, a support shaft 428, and a release portion 429. Meanwhile, the housing 410 of the process cartridge 41 is provided with the support portion 426 and a stopper opening 430.

[0108] The stopper 427 is an example of a regulating portion that regulates the movement of the grip portion 48 by engaging with the connecting portion 55. The support shaft 428 is a swing center of the regulating member 425. The release portion 429 is a portion that releases the engagement between the stopper 427 and the connecting portion 55. The stopper opening 430 is an opening formed in the housing 410. The stopper 427 disposed on the outside of the mounting portion 415 engages with the connecting portion 55 through the stopper opening 430. The stopper 427 is set to be heavier than the release portion 429. As shown in FIG. 16(c), the stopper release groove 124 is a groove formed in the cartridge opening 12. When the process cartridge 41 is attached or detached, the separation regulating portion 416 is set to coincide with the stopper release groove 124.

[0109] Figures 17(a) to (d) are schematic diagrams showing the operation of the separation regulating portion 416. Figure 17(a) shows a state in which the process cartridge 41 to which the toner cartridge 42 is coupled is located outside the apparatus main body 1. Figure 17(b) is a partial enlarged view of the part surrounded by an ellipse in Figure 17(a). Figure 17(c) shows a state in which the process cartridge 41 to which the toner cartridge 42 is coupled is mounted in the apparatus main body 1. Figure 17(d) is a partial enlarged view of the part surrounded by an ellipse in Figure 17(c).

[0110] As shown in FIG. 17(a), the regulating member 425 is supported so as to be swingable about a support shaft 428. The stopper 427 is set to be heavier than the release portion 429. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 17(b), the stopper 427 swings counterclockwise in the figure due to its own weight, and the stopper 427 moves to a position where it abuts against the housing 420. The position where the stopper 427 abuts against the housing 420 is set as a regulating position where the gripping portion 84 located at the first position is restricted from moving toward the second position. That is, the separation regulating portion 416 is biased to the regulating position by its own weight in a state where the cartridge 100 is removed from the apparatus main body 1.

[0111] When the connecting portion 55 is in the first position, it can move leftward. However, as shown in the figure, the stopper 427 engages with the connecting portion 55. Therefore, the connecting portion 55 cannot move leftward. That is, in this embodiment, when the process cartridge 41 to which the toner cartridge 42 is connected is outside the apparatus main body 1, the separation restriction portion 416, which is a separation restriction means, restricts the grip portion 48 from moving from the first position to the second position. By providing the separation restriction portion 416 in this manner, it is possible to prevent the process cartridge 41 to which the toner cartridge 42 is connected from being inadvertently separated outside the apparatus main body 1.

[0112] As shown in FIG. 17(c), when the process cartridge 41 to which the toner cartridge 42 is coupled is mounted to the apparatus main body 1, the separation regulating portion 416 moves into the stopper release groove 124. As shown in FIG. 17(d), when the separation regulating portion 416 enters into the stopper release groove 124, the release portion 429 engages with the stopper release groove 124. The regulating member 425 is supported so as to be swingable, and therefore swings counterclockwise around the support shaft 428 as shown in the figure. Then, the stopper 427 is released from engagement with the connecting portion 55. The position where the stopper 427 is released from engagement with the connecting portion 55 is set as an allowable position that allows the gripping portion 84 located at the first position to move toward the second position. The stopper release groove 124 is an example of a pressing portion that can press the separation regulating portion 416, and by pressing the separation regulating portion 416 when the cartridge 100 is mounted to the apparatus main body 1, the separation regulating portion 416 is moved from the restricted position to the allowable position. As a result, when the process cartridge 41 is mounted in the apparatus main body 1 and the toner cartridge 42 is mounted in the process cartridge 41, the stopper release groove 124 positions the stopper 427 in the permitted position.

[0113] Therefore, the connecting portion 55 can move to the left. That is, in this embodiment, when the process cartridge 41 to which the toner cartridge 42 is coupled is mounted to the apparatus main body 1, the restriction by the separation restriction portion 416 is released, and the grip portion 48 can be moved from the first position to the second position. In this manner, the separation restriction portion 416 can be automatically separated when the process cartridge 41 to which the toner cartridge 42 is coupled is mounted to the apparatus main body 1. On the other hand, when the process cartridge 41 is replaced with a new one, and it is necessary to separate the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 outside the apparatus main body 1, the restriction on the movement of the grip portion 48 is released simply by pushing the release portion 429 downward.

[0114] As described above, according to the cartridge 100 of this embodiment, the process cartridge 41 to which the toner cartridge 42 is coupled outside the apparatus main body 1 can be prevented from being inadvertently separated by providing the separation regulating portion 416. Note that, although the present embodiment has been described with the configuration in which the separation regulating portion 416 is provided in the process cartridge 41, the present invention is not limited to this, and the separation regulating portion 416 may be provided in the toner cartridge 42.

[0115] In the above-described embodiment, the separation restriction portion 416 is biased to the restriction position by its own weight, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a biasing spring may be provided to bias the separation restriction portion 416 to the restriction position. In this case, the separation restriction portion 416 can move to the restriction position in a direction other than the direction of gravity, which improves the freedom of design.

[0116] <Fifth embodiment> Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described, which is an embodiment in which the configurations of the mounting portion 415 and the coupling portion 424 in the first embodiment are modified. Therefore, configurations similar to those in the first embodiment will be described by omitting illustrations or by assigning the same reference numerals in the drawings.

[0117] [Mounting and connecting parts] The mounting portion 417 and the connecting portion 424G of the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 18(a) to (c). Figs. 18(a) to (c) are views showing the toner cartridge 42G and the process cartridge 41G in this embodiment. Fig. 18(a) is a cross-sectional view showing the toner cartridge 42G and the process cartridge 41G in a separated state. Fig. 18(b) is a perspective view of the toner cartridge 42G. Fig. 18(c) is a perspective view of the mounting portion 417.

[0118] As shown in FIG. 18(a), the mounting portion 417 of the process cartridge 41G has a receiving opening 41aG, a receiving shutter 53G, a rib 431 which is an example of a discharge shutter engaged portion, a guide 59G, and a positioning portion 67G. The receiving shutter 53G has a receiving communication port 64G and an engagement hole 432 which is an example of a receiving shutter engaging portion. The toner cartridge 42G has a gripping portion 48G, a shaft portion 437, a connecting portion 424G, a discharge shutter 54G, and a rib 435 which is an example of a receiving shutter engaged portion. The discharge shutter 54G has a discharge communication port 56G and an engagement hole 436 which is an example of a discharge shutter engaging portion.

[0119] When the toner cartridge 42G is mounted in the process cartridge 41G, the engagement hole 436 engages with the rib 431 to connect the discharge shutter 54G to the process cartridge 41. When the toner cartridge 42G is mounted in the process cartridge 41G, the engagement hole 432 engages with the rib 435 to connect the discharge shutter 54G to the process cartridge 41. The shaft portion 437 is an example of an engagement portion, and is provided integrally with the housing 420. The shaft portion 437 has a guide receiving portion 433 which is a short diameter portion having a diameter shorter than the width of the guide 59G, and a positioning receiving portion 434 which has a diameter longer than the width of the guide 59G.

[0120] As shown in FIG. 18(b), the grip portion 48G is provided integrally with the housing 420 and corresponds to the grip portions 48 to 48E described in the first to fourth embodiments. That is, the grip portion 48G is provided integrally with the housing 420 and moves together with the housing 420 when moving between the first position and the second position. The guide receiving portion 433 and the positioning receiving portion 434 are formed on both left and right end surfaces of the housing 420. The guide receiving portion 433 is an engaged portion that is engaged with the guide 59G. The guide receiving portion 433 is a guide portion that guides the movement trajectory when the toner cartridge 42 is coupled to or separated from the process cartridge 41 by engaging with the guide 59G. The positioning receiving portion 434 is a positioning portion when the toner cartridge 42 is positioned by engaging with the positioning portion 67G. In this embodiment, the engaged portion has a guide 59G having one end open to the edge of the housing 410, and a positioning portion 67G arranged continuous with the other end of the guide 59G and having a diameter larger than the width of the guide 59G.

[0121] The discharge shutter 54G is an example of a movable member, and is a shutter member that can move along an arc-shaped trajectory along the circumferential surface of the housing 420 and can open and close the discharge port 42aG. The discharge communication port 56G is an opening formed in the discharge shutter 54G. When the discharge shutter 54G moves to the open position, it coincides with the discharge port 42aG, allowing the toner contained in the toner cartridge 42G to be discharged. The engagement hole 436 is an opening formed in the discharge shutter 54G, and engages with the rib 431. The rib 435 is a protrusion disposed on the left and right sides of the discharge shutter 54G, and is an engagement portion that engages with the engagement hole 432.

[0122] As shown in FIG. 18(c), the receiving opening 41aG is an opening formed in the mounting portion 417. The receiving opening 41aG is an opening for receiving the toner. The receiving shutter 53G is a shutter member for opening and closing the receiving opening 41aG. An engagement hole 432 is formed on the left and right of the receiving shutter 53G. The rib 431 is a rib-shaped portion disposed in the mounting portion 417. The receiving communication port 64G is an opening formed in the receiving shutter 53G. When the receiving shutter 53G moves to the open position, it coincides with the receiving opening 41aG, so that the toner discharged from the toner cartridge 42 can be received by the process cartridge 41. The guide 59G has a groove shape formed on the inner wall of the left and right side end faces of the mounting portion 417, is a guide portion that guides the movement trajectory when the toner cartridge 42 is connected and separated, and engages with the guide receiving portion 433. The positioning portion 67G is a recessed portion having an arc shape. By engaging with the arcuate portion of the positioning receiving portion 434, the toner cartridge 42 can be positioned.

[0123] [Connection and separation of toner cartridge and process cartridge, and opening and closing of shutter] Next, the connection / separation between the toner cartridge 42G and the process cartridge 41G and the shutter opening / closing operation will be described with reference to Figures 19(a) and 19(b). Figures 19(a) and 19(b) are partial enlarged schematic views of a connection portion 424G between the mounting portion 417 and the process cartridge 41G in this embodiment. Figure 19(a) shows a state in which the toner cartridge 42G has moved to the mounting portion 417 of the process cartridge 41G. In this figure, the toner cartridge 42G and the process cartridge 41G are separable. That is, in the state shown in this figure, the grip portion 48G is in the second position.

[0124] 19B shows a state in which the toner cartridge 42G is mounted in the mounting portion 417 of the process cartridge 41G. In addition, in this figure, the toner cartridge 42G and the process cartridge 41G are in a coupled state. That is, in the state shown in this figure, the grip portion 48G is in the first position.

[0125] As shown in FIG. 19(a), when mounting the toner cartridge 42G to the process cartridge 41G, the user moves the gripping portion 48G toward the mounting portion 417. Next, the guide 59G of the mounting portion 417 and the guide receiving portion 433 of the toner cartridge 42G are aligned. The toner cartridge 42G moves obliquely along the guide 59G. The movement is stopped when the positioning portion 67G and the positioning receiving portion 434 come into contact with each other. At this time, the positions of the toner cartridge 42G and the process cartridge 41G are determined by making the arc of the positioning portion 67G and the arc of the positioning receiving portion 434 fit together. Also, as shown in the figure, the rib 431 engages with the engagement hole 436, and the rib 435 also engages with the engagement hole 432. That is, when mounting or removing the toner cartridge 42G to or from the process cartridge 41G, the toner cartridge 42G is mounted or removed so that the guide receiving portion 433 of the shaft portion 437 passes through the guide 59G.

[0126] As shown in FIG. 19(b), the user swings the grip portion 48G clockwise in the figure. With this swinging motion, the positioning support portion 434 swings as shown in the figure. Since the positioning support portion 434 is larger than the guide 59G, the toner cartridge 42G is connected to the process cartridge 41G. Since the rib 431 and the engagement hole 436 are engaged, the discharge shutter 54G does not move. Therefore, the discharge opening 42aG moves to a position that coincides with the communication opening 4252 as shown in the figure.

[0127] Meanwhile, since the rib 435 and the engagement hole 432 are engaged, the receiving communication port 64G of the receiving shutter 53G moves to a position coinciding with the receiving port 41aG in response to the swinging motion. Then, the discharge port 42aG, the discharge communication port 56G, the receiving communication port 64G, and the receiving port 41aG all communicate with each other. Therefore, the toner contained in the toner cartridge 42G can be transported to the process cartridge 41G. In this state, if the grip portion 48G is pulled out toward the front in a substantially horizontal direction, the toner cartridge 42G and the process cartridge 41G can be removed from the apparatus main body 1 while maintaining the connection between them.

[0128] To release the toner cartridge 42G from the process cartridge 41G and separate them, the gripping portion 48G is swung counterclockwise in the figure to the state shown in Figure 19(a). By performing this operation, the phases of the guide receiving portion 433 and the guide 59G match, and the toner cartridge 42G and the process cartridge 41G are released from the connection and can be separated. In addition, the discharge opening 42aG is closed by the discharge shutter 54G, and the receiving opening 41aG is closed by the receiving shutter 53G.

[0129] As described above, the position of the grip portion 48G shown in FIG. 19(b) corresponds to the first position described in the first embodiment. The position of the grip portion 48G shown in FIG. 19(a) corresponds to the second position described in the first embodiment. The first embodiment is configured such that the grip portion 48 is movable relative to the housing 420. On the other hand, the present embodiment is configured such that the grip portion 48G is fixed integrally to the housing 420. In this way, in either configuration, the operation can be simplified because it is only necessary to remember the operation of operating the grip portion 48G of the toner cartridge to switch between the cartridges to be installed and removed and the operation of installing and removing the selected cartridge.

[0130] In this embodiment, the direction in which the toner cartridge 42G is attached and detached by itself is different from the direction in which the process cartridge 41G to which the toner cartridge 42G is attached and detached is attached. With this configuration, a biasing means such as the biasing spring 66 described in the first embodiment is not required. In the first embodiment, the direction in which the toner cartridge 42G is attached and detached by itself is the same as the direction in which the process cartridge 41G to which the toner cartridge 42G is attached and detached. Therefore, when the toner cartridge 42G is removed by itself, a measure is required to prevent the process cartridge 41G from being removed together. However, in the configuration of this embodiment, since the directions in which the toner cartridge 42G is attached and detached are different, such a measure is not required.

[0131] <Other embodiments> In the above-described embodiments, the toner cartridge 42 has the discharge shutter 54, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the toner cartridge 42 may not have the discharge shutter 54. In this case, for example, a seal seal is attached to the discharge port 42a of a new toner cartridge 42, and the seal seal is removed before use and the toner cartridge 42 is attached to the process cartridge 41. In addition, when the toner cartridge 42 runs out of toner, there is almost no toner remaining even if the toner cartridge 42 is removed as is, so that there is little possibility of toner leaking out even if the discharge port 42a is opened.

[0132] In addition, in each of the above-described embodiments, the drum icon 69 and the toner icon 68 are provided on the housing 420, and are displayed depending on whether they are hidden by the operation unit 423 linked to the grip part 48, but the present invention is not limited to this. In other words, any mechanism may be used that displays the state depending on whether the grip part 48 is in the first position or the second position. For example, an arrow mark may be provided on the operation unit 423 linked to the grip part 48, and the drum icon and the toner icon may be provided at the part indicated by the arrow.

[0133] In addition, in each of the above-described embodiments, the image forming apparatus 10 having the document reading unit 8 has been described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the document reading unit 8 may be omitted.

[0134] In addition, in all of the above-described embodiments, the front cover 11 is provided on the front (front) side of the apparatus main body 1, and the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 are configured to be pulled out forward of the apparatus main body 1, but this is not limiting. For example, the front cover 11 may be provided on either the left or right side of the apparatus main body 1, or on the rear side. In this case, the toner cartridge 42 and the process cartridge 41 are pulled out in the left-right direction or rearward.

[0135] In addition, in each of the above-mentioned embodiments, the image forming apparatus 10 is a monochrome laser printer, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the present invention may be applied to an image forming apparatus that is a full-color laser printer. In this case, the image forming apparatus has a plurality of process cartridges (for example, four colors of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black), and each process cartridge has a process cartridge 41 and a toner cartridge 42.

[0136] In addition, in any of the above-described embodiments, the process cartridge 41 has the photosensitive drum 411, the charging roller 412, and the developing roller 44, but is not limited to this. For example, the process cartridge 41 may not have the developing roller 44, and the toner cartridge 42 may have the developing roller 44.

[0137] The disclosure of the present embodiment also includes the following configuration examples and method examples. (Configuration 1) A cartridge comprising: a toner storage unit including: a first toner storage section configured to store toner and provided with an outlet for discharging the toner; a transport member that transports the toner stored in the first toner storage section toward the outlet; and a moving member that is movable relative to the first toner storage section and provided with an engagement section; a developing unit including a developing roller configured to carry a toner, a second toner storage section configured to store the toner and provided with a receiving port configured to communicate with the discharge port, a developing frame body rotatably supporting the developing roller, and an engaged portion, and the toner storage unit is detachably attached in a first direction; Equipped with The movable member is configured to be movable between a first position and a second position in a second direction intersecting the first direction, the first position is a position where the engaging portion engages with the engaged portion so that the toner storage unit moves integrally with the developing unit when the toner storage unit is moved in the first direction, that is, a separation direction in which the toner storage unit is separated from the developing unit; the second position is a position where the engaging portion does not engage with the engaged portion so that the toner storage unit moves away from the developing unit when the toner storage unit is moved in the separation direction. A cartridge characterized by: (Configuration 2) the movable member is a discharge shutter that opens the discharge port when in the first position and closes the discharge port when in the second position; 2. The cartridge according to claim 1, (Configuration 3) The moving member moves linearly. 3. The cartridge according to claim 1 or 2. (Configuration 4) the cartridge is configured to be mountable in a main body of an image forming apparatus, When the cartridge is in an installation position relative to the main body of the apparatus, the second direction is a direction intersecting a direction of gravity. 4. The cartridge according to claim 3. (Configuration 5) The longitudinal direction of the toner storage unit is the direction of the rotation axis of the developing roller. 5. The cartridge according to any one of configurations 1 to 4. (Configuration 6) The moving member has a grip portion protruding in the removal direction at a downstream end portion in the removal direction. 6. The cartridge according to any one of configurations 1 to 5. (Configuration 7) The developing unit further includes a photosensitive drum configured to receive toner from the developing roller. 7. The cartridge according to any one of configurations 1 to 6. (Configuration 8) the developing unit has a receiving shutter that is movable relative to the second toner storage section and interlocks with the discharge shutter, and that opens the receiving opening when the discharge shutter is at the first position and closes the receiving opening when the discharge shutter is at the second position; 3. The cartridge according to claim 2. (Configuration 9) The ejection shutter has a shutter engagement portion, the receiving shutter has a shutter engaged portion that engages with the shutter engaging portion when the toner storage unit is attached to the developing unit, and interlocks the discharge shutter and the receiving shutter. The cartridge according to configuration 8, (Configuration 10) the movable member and the engaging portion are disposed upstream of the first toner storage portion in the removal direction. 10. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 9. (Configuration 11) a restricting portion that is movable between a restricting position that restricts the movable member, which is located at the first position, from moving toward the second position and a permitting position that permits the movable member, which is located at the first position, to move toward the second position, 11. The cartridge according to any one of configurations 1 to 10. (Configuration 12) The toner storage unit includes: a cover portion that is provided movably with respect to the first toner storage portion and that moves with the moving member; a first indicator provided in the first toner accommodating unit, the first indicator being covered by the cover when the movable member is located at the second position and being exposed from the cover when the movable member is located at the first position, to indicate that removal of the toner accommodating unit from the developing unit is restricted; a second indicator provided in the first toner storage unit, the second indicator being covered by the cover when the movable member is located at the first position and being exposed from the cover when the movable member is located at the second position, to indicate that removal of the toner storage unit from the developing unit is permitted; having 12. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 11. (Configuration 13) A cartridge comprising: a toner storage unit including a first toner storage section configured to store toner and provided with an outlet for discharging the toner, a transport member that transports the toner stored in the first toner storage section toward the outlet, a moving member that is movable relative to the first toner storage section, and an engagement section; a developing unit including a developing roller configured to carry a toner, a second toner storage section configured to store the toner and provided with a receiving port configured to communicate with the discharge port, a developing frame body rotatably supporting the developing roller, and an engaged portion, and the toner storage unit is detachably attached in a first direction; Equipped with The movable member is configured to be movable between a first position and a second position in a second direction intersecting the first direction, the first position is a position where the engaging portion engages with the engaged portion so that the toner storage unit moves integrally with the developing unit when the toner storage unit is moved in the first direction, that is, a separation direction in which the toner storage unit is separated from the developing unit; the second position is a position where the engaging portion does not engage with the engaged portion so that the toner storage unit moves away from the developing unit when the toner storage unit is moved in the separation direction. A cartridge characterized by: (Configuration 14) the movable member is a discharge shutter that opens the discharge port when in the first position and closes the discharge port when in the second position; 14. The cartridge according to claim 13. (Configuration 15) The moving member moves along a circular arc-shaped trajectory. 15. A cartridge according to claim 13 or 14. (Configuration 16) the toner storage unit has a grip portion at a downstream end in the removal direction, the grip portion protruding in the removal direction; 16. A cartridge according to any one of claims 13 to 15. (Configuration 17) The developing unit further includes a photosensitive drum configured to receive toner from the developing roller. 17. A cartridge according to any one of claims 13 to 16. (Configuration 18) The ejection shutter has an ejection shutter engagement portion, the developing unit has a discharge shutter engaged portion that engages with the discharge shutter engaging portion when the toner storage unit is attached to the developing unit, and connects the discharge shutter and the developing unit; 15. A cartridge according to claim 14. (Configuration 19) the developing unit has a receiving shutter that is movably provided with respect to the second toner storage section and opens the receiving opening when the discharge shutter is at the first position and closes the receiving opening when the discharge shutter is at the second position; 19. A cartridge according to claim 14 or 18. (Configuration 20) The receiving shutter has a receiving shutter engagement portion, the toner storage unit has a receiving shutter engaged portion that engages with the receiving shutter engaging portion when the toner storage unit is attached to the developing unit, and that connects the receiving shutter and the toner storage unit; 20. A cartridge according to claim 19, characterized in that (Configuration 21) In an image forming apparatus for forming an image on a sheet, The apparatus includes a main body and a cartridge that is detachable from the main body, The cartridge comprises: a toner storage unit including: a first toner storage section configured to store toner and provided with an outlet for discharging the toner; a transport member that transports the toner stored in the first toner storage section toward the outlet; and a moving member that is movable relative to the first toner storage section and provided with an engagement section; a developing unit including a developing roller configured to carry a toner, a second toner storage section configured to store the toner and provided with a receiving port configured to communicate with the discharge port, a developing frame body rotatably supporting the developing roller, and an engaged portion, and the toner storage unit is detachably attached in a first direction; having The movable member is configured to be movable between a first position and a second position in a second direction intersecting the first direction, the first position is a position where the engaging portion engages with the engaged portion so that the toner storage unit moves integrally with the developing unit when the toner storage unit is moved in the first direction, that is, a separation direction in which the toner storage unit is separated from the developing unit; the second position is a position where the engaging portion does not engage with the engaged portion so that the toner storage unit moves away from the developing unit when the toner storage unit is moved in the separation direction. 1. An image forming apparatus comprising: (Configuration 22) The moving member has a grip portion protruding in the removal direction at a downstream end portion in the removal direction. 22. The image forming apparatus according to claim 21, (Configuration 23) the cartridge is removable from the device body in a horizontal direction and in the removal direction; 23. The image forming apparatus according to claim 21 or 22, (Configuration 24) a discharge section that discharges the sheet in a discharge direction; a door that is disposed downstream of the device body in the ejection direction and that opens and closes an opening through which the cartridge passes when the cartridge is attached to or detached from the device body, a toner storage unit that stores a toner in a container that is opened by opening the toner storage unit; 24. The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 21 to 23. (Configuration 25) the door constitutes an exterior surface of the image forming apparatus when the opening is closed. 25. The image forming apparatus according to configuration 24. (Configuration 26) When the developing unit is attached to the apparatus main body and the toner storage unit is attached to the developing unit, The door is capable of closing the opening, the toner storage unit is not exposed to the outside of the image forming apparatus; 26. The image forming apparatus according to claim 24 or 25. (Configuration 27) when the developing unit is attached to the device main body and the toner storage unit is attached to the developing unit, the toner storage unit is entirely contained within the device main body; 27. The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 21 to 26. (Configuration 28) the developing unit has a first positioning portion and a first biasing portion, the toner storage unit has a first positioned portion that abuts against the first positioning portion to position the toner storage unit in a state where the toner storage unit is attached to the developing unit; The first biasing portion biases the first positioned portion so as to contact the first positioning portion. 28. The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 21 to 27. (Configuration 29) The device body has a second positioning portion and a second biasing portion, the developing unit has a second positioned portion that abuts against the second positioning portion to position the developing unit in a state where the developing unit is attached to the apparatus main body, the second biasing portion biases the second positioned portion so as to come into contact with the second positioning portion, the urging force of the first urging portion and the urging force of the second urging portion are set so that, when the developing unit is attached to the apparatus main body, the toner storage unit is attached to the developing unit, and the moving member is located at the second position, the toner storage unit is removed from the developing unit while the developing unit remains attached to the apparatus main body. 29. The image forming apparatus according to configuration 28. (Configuration 30) the cartridge has a restricting portion that is movable between a restricting position that restricts the movable member, which is located at the first position, from moving toward the second position and a permitting position that permits the movable member, which is located at the first position, to move toward the second position. 30. The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 21 to 29. (Configuration 31) the device body has a pressing portion capable of pressing the restricting portion, the regulating portion is biased to the regulating position in a state in which the cartridge is removed from the main body of the apparatus, the pressing portion presses the regulating portion when the cartridge is mounted to the apparatus body, thereby moving the regulating portion from the regulating position to the allowing position. 31. The image forming apparatus according to claim 30, (Configuration 32) The restricting portion is biased to the restricting position by its own weight. 32. The image forming apparatus according to claim 30 or 31, (Configuration 33) In an image forming apparatus for forming an image on a sheet, The apparatus includes a main body and a cartridge that is detachable from the main body, The cartridge comprises: a toner storage unit including a first toner storage section configured to store toner and provided with an outlet for discharging the toner, a transport member that transports the toner stored in the first toner storage section toward the outlet, a moving member that is movable relative to the first toner storage section, and an engagement section; a developing unit including a developing roller configured to carry a toner, a second toner storage section configured to store the toner and provided with a receiving port configured to communicate with the discharge port, a developing frame body rotatably supporting the developing roller, and an engaged portion, and the toner storage unit is detachably attached in a first direction; Equipped with The movable member is configured to be movable between a first position and a second position in a second direction intersecting the first direction, the first position is a position where the engaging portion engages with the engaged portion so that the toner storage unit moves integrally with the developing unit when the toner storage unit is moved in the first direction, that is, a separation direction in which the toner storage unit is separated from the developing unit; the second position is a position where the engaging portion does not engage with the engaged portion so that the toner storage unit moves away from the developing unit when the toner storage unit is moved in the separation direction. 1. An image forming apparatus comprising: [Explanation of symbols]

[0138] 1: device body / 10: image forming device / 11: front cover (door) / 12: cartridge opening (opening) / 41, 41G: process cartridge (developing unit) / 41a, 41aG: receiving port / 41p: guide pin (first positioned portion) / 42, 42G: toner cartridge (toner storage unit) / 42a, 42aG: discharge port / 42p: positioning pin (second positioned portion) / 44: developing roller / 53: receiving shutter / 54: discharge shutter (moving member) / 57: engagement hole (shutter engagement portion) / 58: engagement portion / 61: discharge roller (discharge portion) / 62: developing chamber (second toner storage portion) / 63: rib (shutter engaged portion) / 65: engaged portion / 66: biasing spring (second biasing portion) / 67: positioning portion (second positioning portion) / 68: toner icon (second display portion) / 69: drum icon (first display portion) / 84: grip portion / 100: cartridge / 122: positioning portion (first positioning portion) / 123: urging spring (first urging portion) / 124: stopper release groove (pressing portion) / 410: housing (developing frame body) / 411: photosensitive drum (image carrier) / 421: toner storage portion (first toner storage portion) / 422: transport paddle (transport member) / 423: operation portion (cover portion) / 427: stopper (regulating portion) / 431: rib (discharge shutter engaged portion) / 432: engagement hole (receiving shutter engaged portion) / 435: rib (receiving shutter engaged portion) / 436: engagement hole (discharge shutter engaged portion) / 437: shaft portion (engagement portion) / D1: removal direction / D2: movement direction (second direction)

Claims

1. A cartridge comprising a toner storage unit and a developing unit configured to be detachable from the toner storage unit in a first direction, The aforementioned toner storage unit is A first toner storage section configured to store toner and provided with a toner discharge port, A conveying member that conveys the toner stored in the first toner storage section toward the discharge port of the first toner storage section, A movable member that is movable relative to the first toner storage section and is provided with an engaging portion and an operating portion, It has, The aforementioned developing unit is A developing roller configured to carry toner by rotating about a rotation axis intersecting the first direction, A second toner storage section is provided with an inlet configured to house toner and to communicate with the discharge port of the first toner storage section, A developing frame that rotatably supports the developing roller, The engaged portion is configured to engage with the engagement portion of the movable member, It has, The movable member is configured to move between a first position and a second position by operating the operating unit by the user. The first direction includes the mounting direction in which the toner storage unit is mounted on the developing unit, and the detachment direction in which the toner storage unit is detached from the developing unit, The first position is a position in which the engaging portion engages with the engaged portion such that the detachment of the toner storage unit from the developing unit in the detachment direction is restricted, and the discharge port of the first toner storage unit and the receiving port of the second toner storage unit are in communication with each other. The second position is such that the toner storage unit can be detached from the developing unit in the detachment direction, the engaging portion does not engage with the engaged portion, and the discharge port of the first toner storage unit and the receiving port of the second toner storage unit are not in communication with each other. The toner storage unit has an outer flat surface provided in the region of the downstream end face of the toner storage unit in the detachment direction, extending in a direction intersecting the first direction and including the center in the direction of the rotation axis of the toner storage unit. A cartridge characterized by the following features.

2. The movable member has a discharge shutter that opens the discharge port when the movable member is in the first position and closes the discharge port when the movable member is in the second position. The cartridge according to feature 1.

3. The longitudinal direction of the toner storage unit is the direction of the rotation axis of the developing roller. The cartridge according to feature 1.

4. The developing unit further includes a photosensitive drum configured to receive toner from the developing roller. The cartridge according to feature 1.

5. The developing unit is movable relative to the second toner storage section and is configured to be interlocked with the discharge shutter section, and has a receiving shutter that opens the receiving port when the discharge shutter section is in the first position and closes the receiving port when the discharge shutter section is in the second position. The cartridge according to feature 2.

6. The discharge shutter section has a shutter engaging section, The receiving shutter has a shutter engagement portion that engages with the shutter engagement portion when the toner storage unit is mounted on the developing unit, and which interlocks the discharge shutter portion and the receiving shutter. The cartridge according to feature 5.

7. The device further includes a restricting portion that is movable to a restricting position that restricts the movement of the moving member located at the first position toward the second position, and to an allowable position that permits the movement of the moving member located at the first position toward the second position. The cartridge according to feature 1.

8. In an image forming apparatus that forms an image on a sheet, The device comprises a main body having an opening, a door configured to open and close the opening of the main body, and a cartridge mounted on the main body so as to be detachable through the opening. The cartridge comprises a toner storage unit and a developing unit on which the toner storage unit is detachably mounted in a first direction. The aforementioned toner storage unit is A first toner storage section configured to store toner and provided with a toner discharge port, A conveying member that conveys the toner stored in the first toner storage section toward the discharge port of the first toner storage section, A movable member that is movable relative to the first toner storage section and is provided with an engaging portion and an operating portion, It has, The aforementioned developing unit is A developing roller configured to carry toner by rotating about a rotation axis intersecting the first direction, A second toner storage section is provided with an inlet configured to house toner and to communicate with the discharge port of the first toner storage section, A developing frame that rotatably supports the developing roller, The engaged portion is configured to engage with the engagement portion of the movable member, It has, The movable member is configured to move between a first position and a second position by operating the operating unit by the user. The first direction includes the mounting direction in which the toner storage unit is mounted on the developing unit, and the detachment direction in which the toner storage unit is detached from the developing unit, The first position is such that the toner storage unit is prevented from detaching from the developing unit in the direction of separation, and the engaging portion engages with the engaged portion so that the toner storage unit and the developing unit can be integrally attached to and detached from the main body of the device by passing through the opening, and the discharge port of the first toner storage unit and the receiving port of the second toner storage unit are in communication with each other. The second position is such that the toner storage unit can be detached from the developing unit in the detachment direction, and the engaging portion does not engage with the engaged portion so that the toner storage unit can pass through the opening and be attached to and detached from the developing unit, and the discharge port of the first toner storage unit and the receiving port of the second toner storage unit are not in communication with each other. The toner storage unit has an outer flat surface provided in the region including the center in the direction of the rotation axis of the toner storage unit, which is the downstream end face of the toner storage unit in the detachment direction, and which extends in a direction along the inner surface of the door when the door is closed to the opening. An image forming apparatus characterized by the following features.

9. The door, when the opening is closed, constitutes the exterior surface of the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to feature 8.

10. With the developing unit mounted on the main body of the device and the toner storage unit mounted on the developing unit, The door is configured to close the opening, When the door is closed to the opening, the toner storage unit is not exposed to the outside of the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to feature 8.

11. When the developing unit is mounted on the main body of the device and the toner storage unit is mounted on the developing unit, the entire toner storage unit is housed inside the main body of the device. The image forming apparatus according to feature 8.

12. The developing unit has a first positioning unit and a first biasing unit, The toner storage unit has a first positioning portion which is positioned in a state where it is mounted on the developing unit by contacting and positioning the toner storage unit with the first positioning portion. The first biasing unit biases the first positioned unit so that it comes into contact with the first positioning unit. The image forming apparatus according to feature 8.

13. The device body has a second positioning unit and a second biasing unit, The developing unit has a second positioning portion which is positioned in a state where it is mounted on the main body of the apparatus by contacting and positioning the developing unit with the second positioning portion. The second biasing unit biases the second positioned portion so that it comes into contact with the second positioning unit. The biasing force of the first biasing unit and the biasing force of the second biasing unit are set such that when the developing unit is mounted on the main body of the device, the toner storage unit is mounted on the developing unit, and the moving member is in the second position, the toner storage unit can be removed from the developing unit while the developing unit remains mounted on the main body of the device. The image forming apparatus according to feature 12.

14. The cartridge has a restricting portion that is movable to a restricting position that restricts the movement of the movable member located at the first position toward the second position, and to a permissible position that allows the movement of the movable member located at the first position toward the second position. The image forming apparatus according to feature 8.

15. The main body of the device has a pressing portion capable of pressing the restricting portion, The regulating unit is biased to the regulating position when the cartridge is removed from the main body of the device. The pressing portion presses the restricting portion when the cartridge is mounted on the device body, thereby moving the restricting portion from the restricting position to the allowable position. The image forming apparatus according to feature 14.

16. The regulating part is biased to the regulating position by its own weight. The image forming apparatus according to feature 14.

Images