Medium transport device

Abstract

To enable component replacement or maintenance in a narrow space and mitigates the burden on a user.SOLUTION: A medium transport device comprises: a first cover for covering a first internal region of the device body in which a first component is accommodated; a second cover for covering a second internal region of the device body in which a second component is accommodated; a first connecting part for connecting the covers together and openably / closably supports the first cover with respect to the first region; and a second connecting part for connecting the device body and the second cover and openably / closably supports the second cover with respect to the second region. The second cover has a wall located between the first region and the second region in the state of the first cover being open and the second cover being closed. When the first cover is open, while restricting access to the second region by means of the wall it is made possible to attach / remove the first component to / from the first region. When the second cover is open, it is made possible to attach / remove the first component and the second component to / from the first region and the second region respectively.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a media transport device having a function of transporting a medium. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there have been apparatuses configured such that an upper cover can be opened and closed relative to a main body of the apparatus in order to replace parts or perform maintenance of the apparatus. (See Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2007-65125 A (see abstract) Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, if there is not enough space above the device, the top cover cannot be fully opened, and the user must first pull the device out of the narrow space before opening the top cover, which places a heavy burden on the user.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and aims to enable part replacement or maintenance in a small space and reduce the workload of the user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The media transport device of the present disclosure includes a device main body having a media transport path therein, a first component and a second component disposed within the device main body, a first cover covering a first region in which the first component is housed, a second cover covering a second region in which the second component is housed, a first connecting portion connecting the first cover to the second cover and supporting the first cover so that it can be opened and closed relative to the first region, and a second connecting portion connecting the device main body to the second cover and supporting the second cover so that it can be opened and closed relative to the second region. The second cover has a wall portion located between the first region and the second region when the first cover is open and the second cover is closed. When the first cover is opened, the wall portion restricts access to the second region, allowing the first component in the first region to be attached and detached. When the second cover is opened, the first component in the first region and the second component in the second region to be attached and detached. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present disclosure, even if the medium conveying device is placed in a small space, the first component can be attached and detached by opening the first cover, and both the first component and the second component can be attached and detached by opening the second cover, thereby reducing the workload on the user. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an internal configuration of an image forming apparatus as a medium conveying device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a perspective view showing an external appearance of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment; [Figure 3] 1A and 1B are perspective views of a first cover as viewed from above, and FIG. 1C and 1D are perspective views of a second cover as viewed from above according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] 10A and 10B are perspective views of a second cover of the embodiment as seen from below, and 10C and 10D are perspective views of a housing as seen from above. [Figure 5]FIG. 1A is a perspective view showing a state in which the first cover and the second cover of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment are closed; FIG. 1B is a perspective view showing a state in which only the first cover is open; and FIG. 1C is a perspective view showing a state in which the first cover and the second cover are open. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a bottom view showing a first cover of the embodiment. [Figure 7] 1A is a perspective view showing a state in which a first cover of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment is open, and FIG. 1B is a perspective view showing a first lock lever and members around the first lock lever. [Figure 8] 1A is a perspective view showing an engagement state between a locking claw of a first cover and a first lock lever in the embodiment, and FIG. 1B is an enlarged view showing an engagement portion between the locking claw and the first lock lever. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a second cover according to the embodiment, as viewed from below. [Figure 10] 1A is a perspective view showing an engagement state between the locking portion of the second cover and the second lock lever in the embodiment, and FIG. 1B is a perspective view showing an enlarged view of the engagement portion between the locking portion and the second lock lever in the embodiment. [Figure 11] 1A is a perspective view showing a state in which a first cover and a second cover of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment are open, and FIG. 1B is a perspective view showing an enlarged view of a part of the image forming apparatus 1. FIG. [Figure 12] 11(A) is a perspective view showing the lever holder removed from FIG. 11(B), and FIG. 11(B) is a perspective view showing the second lock lever and the lever holder. [Figure 13] 1A is a bottom view showing a second cover of the embodiment, and FIGS. 1B and 1C are bottom views showing an enlarged view of a release lever and its surrounding members. [Figure 14] 10A and 10B are perspective views showing a release lever and its surrounding members in a second cover of the embodiment, and FIG. 10C is a bottom view thereof. [Figure 15] 1A is a perspective view of a second cover and a head holder according to an embodiment, as viewed from above, and FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the second cover and a head holder according to an embodiment, as viewed from below. [Figure 16]1A is a front view showing a head holder according to an embodiment, and FIGS. 1B and 1C are perspective views showing the respective ends of the head holder. [Figure 17] 4A and 4B are partial cross-sectional perspective views showing the respective ends of a head holder according to an embodiment. [Figure 18] 10A, 10B, and 10C are side views showing the interlocking state of the second cover and the head holder according to the embodiment. [Figure 19] 1A is a perspective view of a toner cartridge according to an embodiment, FIG. 1B is a perspective view of a unit body of an ID unit, and FIG. 1C is a perspective view of the ID unit, both seen from above. [Figure 20] 1A and 1B are perspective views of the fixing unit according to the embodiment as viewed from above, and FIGS. 1C and 1D are perspective views showing a state in which a lock arm of the fixing unit is operated. [Figure 21] 1A and 1B are perspective views of a transfer unit according to an embodiment as viewed from above, and FIGS. 1C and 1D are perspective views showing a state in which a lock handle of the transfer unit is operated. [Figure 22] 1A and 1B are perspective views showing the image forming apparatus of the embodiment with the first cover and second cover open, and FIG. 1C and 1D are perspective views showing the image forming apparatus of the embodiment with the ID unit, transfer unit, and fixing unit removed. [Figure 23] 1A is a perspective view showing a state in which a medium cassette is removed from an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment, and FIG. 1B is a perspective view showing the medium cassette. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] <Image forming device> An image forming apparatus 1 as a medium conveying device according to an embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the internal configuration of the image forming apparatus 1. In this example, the image forming apparatus 1 is an electrophotographic printer that forms images by an electrophotographic process. Note that the medium conveying device is not limited to the image forming apparatus 1, and may be any device that conveys a medium and performs some kind of processing.

[0010] The image forming device 1 includes a media cassette 90 that stores a medium M such as printing paper, a media supply section 110 that feeds the medium M stored in the media cassette 90, an ID (image drum) unit 10 as an image forming unit that forms an image, a transfer unit 70 that transfers the image onto the medium M, a fixing unit 80 that fixes the image onto the medium M, a media discharge section 120 that discharges the medium M, and a housing 50 that serves as the device main body and stores these components.

[0011] A medium transport path P along which the medium M is transported is provided inside the housing 50. The medium transport path P has a paper feed transport path P1, a transfer transport path P2, and a discharge transport path P3, extending from the medium cassette 90 to a discharge port 123 (described below). The image forming apparatus 1 also has a first cover 20 and a second cover 30 that can be opened and closed and that cover the housing 50.

[0012] The medium cassette 90 stores media M such as printing paper. The medium cassette 90 is removably attached to the bottom of the housing 50. The medium cassette 90 has a loading plate 91 that holds the loaded media M, side guides 92L and 92R (see FIG. 23(B)) that regulate the position of both ends of the media M in the width direction, and a rear guide 93 (see FIG. 23(B)) that regulates the position of the rear end of the media M.

[0013] The medium supply unit 110 has a pickup roller 111, a paper feed roller 112, and a separation roller 113. The pickup roller 111 pulls out the media M stored in the medium cassette 90 one by one. The paper feed roller 112 and the separation roller 113 separate the pulled-out media M one by one and send them out to the paper feed transport path P1.

[0014] The medium supply unit 110 also has, along the paper feed path P1, a pair of rollers: an intermediate conveyance roller 114 and a conveyance roller 115. The conveyance roller 115 is also called a registration roller.

[0015] The intermediate conveying rollers 114 convey the medium M from the paper feed rollers 112 and the separation rollers 113 along the paper feed conveying path P1 to the conveying rollers 115. The conveying rollers 115 correct any skew of the medium M from the intermediate conveying rollers 114 and convey the medium M to the transfer unit 70 along the transfer conveying path P2.

[0016] The ID unit 10 includes a photosensitive drum 11 as an image carrier, a charging roller 12 as a charging member, a developing roller 14 as a developer carrier, a supply roller 15 as a supply member, a unit main body 16 that houses these components, and a toner cartridge 17 as a developer container. The ID unit 10 is also referred to as a process unit. An LED head 13 as an exposure unit (or light-emitting unit) is disposed opposite the photosensitive drum 11.

[0017] The photosensitive drum 11 is a cylindrical member having a photosensitive layer formed on the surface of a conductive support. The photosensitive layer is a laminate of a charge generating layer and a charge transport layer. The photosensitive drum 11 rotates, for example, clockwise in the drawing.

[0018] The LED head 13 has an LED array in which LEDs (light emitting diodes) are arranged as light emitting elements, and a lens array, and forms an electrostatic latent image by irradiating the surface of the photosensitive drum 11 with light. The LED head 13 is held by a head holder 60 connected to the second cover 30 as will be described later.

[0019] The charging roller 12 is disposed so as to come into contact with the surface of the photosensitive drum 11, and rotates following the rotation of the photosensitive drum 11. A charging voltage is applied to the charging roller 12, and the surface of the photosensitive drum 11 is uniformly charged.

[0020] The developing roller 14 is disposed so as to contact the surface of the photosensitive drum 11, and rotates in the opposite direction to the photosensitive drum 11 (the direction in which the surface moves at the contact point is the forward direction). A developing voltage is applied to the developing roller 14, and the electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 11 is developed with toner.

[0021] Supply roller 15 is disposed so as to contact the surface of developing roller 14, and rotates in the same direction as developing roller 14 (the direction in which the surface moves in the contact area is opposite to that of developing roller 14). A supply voltage is applied to supply roller 15, and it supplies toner to developing roller 14. Developing roller 14 and supply roller 15 constitute a developing unit.

[0022] The toner cartridge 17 is a container that contains toner as a developer, and is detachably attached to the unit body 16 of the ID unit 10. The toner cartridge 17 supplies toner to a developing section that includes the developing roller 14 and the supply roller 15. The toner is, for example, black toner, but is not limited to this.

[0023] The transfer unit 70 is disposed on the opposite side of the transfer transport path P2 from the ID unit 10. In this example, the transfer unit 70 is disposed on the −Z side (below) of the ID unit 10.

[0024] The transfer unit 70 has a transfer roller 71 that contacts the surface of the photosensitive drum 11. A transfer voltage is applied to the transfer roller 71, which transfers the toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 11 to the medium M that passes between the photosensitive drum 11 and the transfer roller 71. The medium M that has passed between the photosensitive drum 11 and the transfer roller 71 is transported to the fixing unit 80 along the transfer transport path P2 by the rotation of the photosensitive drum 11.

[0025] Although a configuration in which a single color image is formed using a single ID unit 10 will be described here, the present invention is not limited to such a configuration. For example, a configuration in which a color image is formed using multiple ID units for yellow, magenta, cyan, black, etc. may also be adopted.

[0026] The fixing unit 80 is disposed downstream of the ID unit 10 in the transport direction of the medium M. The fixing unit 80 has a fixing roller 81 as a fixing member and a pressure roller 82 as a pressure member. The fixing roller 81 has a built-in heater such as a halogen lamp. The pressure roller 82 is pressed against the fixing roller 81. The fixing roller 81 and the pressure roller 82 heat and pressurize the medium M to fix the toner image to the medium M.

[0027] The medium discharge section 120 has a pair of rollers, discharge rollers 121 and 122, along a discharge conveyance path P3 that runs from the fixing unit 80 to the discharge opening 123. The discharge rollers 121 and 122 convey the medium M that has passed through the fixing unit 80 along the discharge conveyance path P3 and discharge it from the discharge opening 123 that serves as the discharge section.

[0028] The discharge port 123 is an opening provided in the housing 50, and is disposed in the -Y direction (rearward) relative to the second cover 30. The first cover 20 and the second cover 30 are each formed with a stacker section 20S, 30S on which the medium M discharged from the discharge port 123 is placed.

[0029] Furthermore, for double-sided printing, the image forming apparatus 1 may include a re-conveying mechanism 130 that re-conveys the medium M on which the toner image has been fixed to the paper feed conveying path P1. The re-conveying mechanism 130 has re-conveying rollers 132, 133, and 134 along a return conveying path P4 from the downstream side of the fixing unit 80 to the paper feed conveying path P1.

[0030] A switching guide 131 that switches the transport path of the medium M is provided downstream of the fixing unit 80. The switching guide 131 guides the medium M, which has been pulled back from the discharge transport path P3 by the reverse rotation of the discharge rollers 121 and 122, to the return transport path P4.

[0031] Re-conveyance rollers 132, 133, and 134 of the re-conveyance mechanism 130 transport the medium M along the return transport path P4. The return transport path P4 merges with the paper feed transport path P1 upstream of the transport roller 115. Note that if the image forming apparatus 1 does not have a double-sided printing function, the re-conveyance mechanism 130 does not need to be provided.

[0032] In Figure 1, the axial direction of the photosensitive drum 11 is the X direction. The X direction is the axial direction of each roller in the image forming apparatus 1 and is also the width direction of the medium M being transported. The direction of movement of the medium M as it passes through the ID unit 10 is the Y direction. The direction perpendicular to the X direction and the Y direction is the Z direction. Here, the Z direction is the up-down direction.

[0033] Regarding the Y direction, the transport direction when the medium M passes through the ID unit 10 is the +Y direction (rearward), and the opposite direction is the -Y direction (forward). Regarding the X direction, the right-hand direction when facing the +Y direction is the +X direction, and the left-hand direction is the -X direction. Regarding the Z direction, the upward direction in FIG. 1 is the +Z direction, and the downward direction is the -Z direction. Note that these directions do not limit the orientation of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0034] <Housing> Next, we will explain the housing 50 of the image forming apparatus 1. Fig. 2 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the image forming apparatus 1. As shown in Fig. 2, the housing 50 of the image forming apparatus 1 has a front cover 51 in the -Y direction (forward), a rear cover 52 in the +Y direction (backward), a side cover 53 in the -X direction (left side), and a side cover 54 in the +X direction (right side).

[0035] An opening 51a is formed at the end (upper end) in the +Z direction of the front cover 51, through which the user inserts their finger when opening the first cover 20. In addition, a front panel 95 of the medium cassette 90 is located in the -Z direction (below) of the front cover 51. The front cover 51 is configured to be openable and closable around a rotation axis in the X direction, but detailed description of the opening and closing of the front cover 51 will be omitted.

[0036] <First cover and second cover> Next, we will explain the first cover 20 and the second cover 30. As described above, the first cover 20 and the second cover 30 are provided in the +Z direction (upward) of the housing 50. The first cover 20 is located in the -Y direction (forward), and the second cover 30 is located in the +Y direction (rearward).

[0037] More specifically, the first cover 20 covers a first area 101 (FIG. 1) in the −Y direction (front) of the space inside the housing 50. The second cover 30 covers a second area 102 (FIG. 1) in the +Y direction (rear) of the space inside the housing 50.

[0038] The first cover 20 and the second cover 30 are connected to each other at approximately the center of the housing 50 in the Y direction by first connecting portions (shafts 23L, 23R and holes 33L, 33R) described below.

[0039] The first cover 20 has a top panel 21, and a first stacker section 20S is formed in the center of the top panel 21. The second cover 30 has a top panel 31, and a second stacker section 30S is formed in the center of the top panel 21.

[0040] The first stacker unit 20S and the second stacker unit 30S are portions on which the media M discharged from the discharge port 123 are placed, and form a continuous placement surface S. Furthermore, both the first stacker unit 20S and the second stacker unit 30S are inclined so that their heights decrease in the +Y direction (rearward).

[0041] An operation panel 55 is provided on the side cover 54. The operation panel 55 has a display unit 55a that displays information and an operation unit 55b where the user inputs information. The display unit 55a is located approximately in the center of the housing 50 in the Y direction, and protrudes in the +Z direction (upward) from the upper surface 54b of the side cover 54.

[0042] 1, the interior of the housing 50 is divided into a first area 101 and a second area 102, as described above. The toner cartridge 17 is disposed in the first area 101, and the fixing unit 80 is disposed in the second area 102. The ID unit 10 and the transfer unit 70 are both disposed across the first area 101 and the second area 102.

[0043] <First connecting part> Next, we will explain the first connecting portion that connects the first cover 20 and the second cover 30. Figures 3(A) and (B) are perspective views of the first cover 20 seen from above. Figures 3(C) and (D) are perspective views of the second cover 30 seen from above.

[0044] As shown in Figures 3(A) and (B), protrusions 22L and 22R that protrude in the +Z direction (upward) are formed at the rear end (end in the +Y direction) of the first cover 20. The protrusions 22L and 22R are arranged on both sides of the first stacker unit 20S in the X direction. Shafts 23L and 23R are formed on the outer surfaces of the protrusions 22L and 22R in the X direction. The shafts 23L and 23R are positioned coaxially with each other, with their axial direction aligned in the X direction.

[0045] As shown in Figures 3(C) and (D), protrusions 32L and 32R are formed at the front end (-Y direction end) of the second cover 30. The protrusions 32L and 32R are arranged on both sides of the second stacker unit 30S in the X direction. Holes 33L and 33R are formed on the opposing surfaces of the protrusions 32L and 32R, respectively. The holes 33L and 33R face each other in the X direction.

[0046] The shaft 23L of the first cover 20 engages with the hole 33L of the second cover 30, and the shaft 23R of the first cover 20 engages with the hole 33R of the second cover 30. The engagement of the shaft 23L with the hole 33L and the engagement of the shaft 23R with the hole 33R connects the first cover 20 and the second cover 30, and the first cover 20 becomes rotatable relative to the second cover 30 about a rotation axis in the X direction (first rotation axis).

[0047] Therefore, the shafts 23L, 23R of the first cover 20 and the holes 33L, 33R of the second cover 30 form a first connecting portion that connects the first cover 20 and the second cover 30 together.

[0048] <Second connecting part> Next, a second connecting portion that connects the second cover 30 and the housing 50 will be described. Figures 4(A) and (B) are perspective views of the second cover 30 as seen from below. Figures 4(C) and (D) are perspective views of the housing 50 as seen from above.

[0049] As shown in Figures 4(A) and (B), side plates 36L and 36R are provided in the -Z direction (downward) of the top panel 31 of the second cover 30. The side plates 36L and 36R are arranged on both sides of the second stacker unit 30S in the X direction and extend in the Y direction. Shafts 37L and 37R are formed on the outer surfaces in the X direction at the ends (rear ends) in the +Y direction of the side plates 36L and 36R. The shafts 37L and 37R are positioned coaxially with each other, with the X direction being the axial direction.

[0050] 4(C) and 4(D), holes 53a and 54a are formed in the inner surfaces in the X direction at the rear ends (ends in the +Y direction) of the side covers 53 and 54 of the housing 50. The holes 53a and 54a face each other in the X direction.

[0051] The shaft 37L of the second cover 30 engages with the hole 53a of the side cover 53, and the shaft 37R of the second cover 30 engages with the hole 54a of the side cover 54. The engagement of the shaft 37L with the hole 53a and the engagement of the shaft 37R with the hole 54a connects the second cover 30 and the housing 50, and the second cover 30 becomes rotatable relative to the housing 50 about a rotation axis (second rotation axis) in the X direction.

[0052] Therefore, the shafts 37L, 37R of the second cover 30 and the holes 53a, 54a of the housing 50 form a second connecting portion that connects the first cover 20 and the second cover 30 together.

[0053] <Wall> Next, we will explain the wall portion 34 provided on the second cover 30. As shown in Figures 3(A) and (B), the wall portion 34 is provided at the end (front end) in the -Y direction of the second cover 30. More specifically, the wall portion 34 extends in the -Z direction (downward) from the end (front end) in the -Y direction of the second stacker unit 30S.

[0054] Wall portion 34 limits access to a second region 102 (FIG. 1) within housing 50 when first cover 20 is open and second cover 30 is closed, as described below.

[0055] Furthermore, a plate 35 extending in the X direction is provided along the end (upper end) in the +Z direction of the wall portion 34. When the second cover 30 is released from the engagement of engagement portions 39L, 39R (described later), the second cover 30 is pushed upward by springs 64L, 64R (described later) of the head holder 60, and at that time, the user places his / her fingers on the plate 35 to open the second cover 30.

[0056] 3(C) and (D), the plate 35 has a first portion 35a that is tall from the center in the X direction to the end in the -X direction (left side), and a second portion 35b that is located in the +X direction (right side) shorter than the center in the X direction. This is to facilitate the operation of the operating lever 17b of the toner cartridge 17, as will be described later, and to prevent the ID unit 10 from being accidentally removed.

[0057] <Opening and closing the first cover and second cover> Next, opening and closing of the first cover 20 and the second cover 30 will be described. Fig. 5(A) is a perspective view showing a state in which the first cover 20 and the second cover 30 of the image forming apparatus 1 are closed. Fig. 5(B) is a perspective view showing a state in which only the first cover 20 is open. Fig. 5(C) is a perspective view showing a state in which the first cover 20 and the second cover 30 are open.

[0058] 5(A), the first cover 20 is in the closed position, and the second cover 30 is also in the closed position. The first area 101 (FIG. 1) in the housing 50 is covered by the first cover 20, and the second area 102 (FIG. 1) is covered by the second cover 30.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 5(B), the first cover 20 is configured to be rotatable 180 degrees from the closed position shown in FIG. 5(A) by the first connecting portions (shafts 23L, 23R and holes 33L, 33R).

[0060] As a result, first cover 20 overlaps second cover 30. That is, top panels 21, 31 (FIG. 2) of first cover 20 and second cover 30 come into contact with each other, and stacker sections 20S, 30S (FIG. 2) face each other. This position is the open position of first cover 20.

[0061] When the first cover 20 is rotated to the open position shown in Fig. 5(B), the upper part of the first area 101 (Fig. 1) in the housing 50 is opened. This allows access to the toner cartridge 17. Meanwhile, the wall portion 34 provided on the second cover 30 restricts access to the second area 102.

[0062] As shown in Fig. 5(C), second cover 30 is configured to be rotatable by a predetermined angle less than 90 degrees (here, 80 degrees) from the closed position shown in Fig. 5(A) by second connecting portions (shafts 37L, 37R and holes 53a, 54a) with first cover 20 placed thereon. Second cover 30 is held in the open position shown in Fig. 5(C) by the biasing force of torsion springs (not shown) provided around shafts 37L, 37R.

[0063] 5C, the upper portions of the first area 101 and the second area 102 (FIG. 1) in the housing 50 are opened, thereby allowing access to the ID unit 10 and the fixing unit 80.

[0064] The opening and closing angle of the second cover 30 is the amount of change in angle of the second cover 30 around the shaft portions 23L and 23R (more specifically, the amount of change in angle of the top plate portion 31 of the second cover 30) between the closed position shown in Figure 5(B) and the open position shown in Figure 5(C).

[0065] If the opening / closing angle of the second cover 30 exceeds 90 degrees, the first cover 20 may rotate under its own weight in a direction away from the second cover 30. In contrast, if the opening / closing angle of the second cover 30 is less than 90 degrees, the state in which the first cover 20 overlaps the second cover 30 is maintained.

[0066] <First cover locking mechanism> Next, a locking mechanism that locks the first cover 20 in the closed position will be described. Fig. 6 is a bottom view showing the first cover 20. A locking claw 24 is disposed in the center of the front end (the end in the -Y direction) of the first cover 20. The locking claw 24 has a protrusion 24a that protrudes in the +X direction (to the right).

[0067] Fig. 7(A) is a perspective view showing a state in which the first cover 20 of the image forming apparatus 1 is open. As shown in Fig. 7(A), a first lock lever 140 is provided inside the housing 50. The first lock lever 140 is disposed behind the front cover 51 (in the -Y direction) inside the housing 50.

[0068] Figure 7(B) is an enlarged view of the portion surrounded by dashed line 7B in Figure 7(A). As shown in Figure 7(B), first lock lever 140 has engagement portion 141 that protrudes in the -X direction (leftward). Engagement portion 141 has an inclined surface S1 on the +Z side (upper side) and an inclined surface S2 on the -Z side (lower side).

[0069] The first lock lever 140 is supported rotatably around a rotation axis 143 in the Y direction provided inside the housing 50. A lever guide 142 is provided to surround the first lock lever 140. The lever guide 142 restricts the rotation range of the first lock lever 140.

[0070] A spring 145 serving as a first biasing member is provided inside the lever guide 142. The spring 145 biases the first lock lever 140 so that the engagement portion 141 protrudes in the −X direction (leftward). The biasing force of the spring 145 holds the first lock lever 140 in a position protruding from the lever guide 142 in the −X direction (leftward).

[0071] Fig. 8(A) is a perspective view showing an engagement state between the locking claw 24 of the first cover 20 and the first lock lever 140. Note that Fig. 8(A) shows only the spring 145 as a peripheral member of the first lock lever 140 shown in Fig. 7(B).

[0072] Fig. 8(B) is an enlarged perspective view of the portion surrounded by dashed line 8B in Fig. 8(A). As shown in Fig. 8(B), the biasing force of spring 145 causes inclined surface S2 of engaging portion 141 of first lock lever 140 to abut against protruding portion 24a of locking claw 24, biasing locking claw 24 in the -Z direction (downward). As first lock lever 140 biases locking claw 24, first cover 20 is locked in the closed position (Fig. 5(A)).

[0073] When opening the first cover 20, if the force with which the user lifts the first cover 20 exceeds the biasing force of the spring 145, the locking claw 24 presses the inclined surface S2 of the first lock lever 140, moving the first lock lever 140 in the +X direction (to the right). This releases the lock of the locking claw 24 by the first lock lever 140, and the first cover 20 is opened.

[0074] Furthermore, when closing the first cover 20, the force with which the user presses down on the first cover 20 causes the locking pawl 24 of the first cover 20 to press the inclined surface S1 of the first lock lever 140, moving the first lock lever 140 in the +X direction (to the right). When the locking pawl 24 reaches the inclined surface S2 of the first lock lever 140, the first lock lever 140 moves in the -X direction (to the left) due to the biasing force of the spring 145, and the locking pawl 24 and the first lock lever 140 engage with each other. This locks the first cover 20 in the closed position.

[0075] <Second cover locking mechanism> Next, the locking mechanism of the second cover 30 will be described. Figure 9 is a perspective view of the second cover 30 as viewed from below. The second cover 30 has side walls 38L, 38R located on both sides of the second stacker unit 30S in the X direction. Locking portions 39L, 39R are formed at the front ends (-Y direction ends) of the side walls 38L, 38R, on the outer sides in the X direction. Locking portion 39L is also referred to as the first locking portion, and locking portion 39R is also referred to as the second locking portion.

[0076] 10(A) is a perspective view showing an engagement state between the locking portions 39L, 39R of the second cover 30 and the second lock lever 150. The second lock lever 150 is provided inside the housing 50. The second lock lever 150 is an elongated member that is long in the X direction, and is supported by a lever holder 56 (described later) so as to be movable in the X direction.

[0077] The second lock lever 150 has an extension portion 151 extending in the X direction, an engagement portion 152L formed at the -X direction end (left end) of the extension portion 151, and an engagement portion 152R formed at the +X direction end (right end) of the extension portion 151.

[0078] Fig. 10(B) is an enlarged perspective view of the portion surrounded by dashed line 10B in Fig. 10(A). As shown in Fig. 10(B), engaging portion 152R of second lock lever 150 has a hook shape that protrudes to the -X side (left side), and engages with the +Z side (upper side) of engaging portion 39R of second cover 30.

[0079] Fig. 10(C) is an enlarged perspective view of the portion surrounded by dashed line 10C in Fig. 10(A). As shown in Fig. 10(C), engaging portion 152L of second lock lever 150 has a hook shape that protrudes to the -X side (left side) and engages with the +Z side (upper side) of engaging portion 39L of second cover 30.

[0080] The second cover 30 is locked in the closed position (FIG. 5(A)) by the engagement portions 152L, 152R of the second lock lever 150 engaging with the latch portions 39L, 39R of the second cover 30. The second lock lever 150 and the latch portions 39L, 39R of the second cover 30 constitute a lock portion.

[0081] When the second lock lever 150 is moved in the +X direction (right direction) by the release lever 40 described later, the engagement portions 152L, 152R move away from the engagement portions 39L, 39R in the +X direction (right direction), and the second cover 30 is unlocked.

[0082] 10(B) and (C), engaging portions 152L, 152R have an inclined surface T on their respective -X sides (left sides) that is inclined with respect to the Z direction (vertical direction). When second cover 30 is closed, engaging portions 39L, 39R of second cover 30 abut against the inclined surface T, moving second lock lever 150 in the +X direction (rightward).

[0083] Furthermore, when the locking portions 39L, 39R of the second cover 30 pass over the inclined surface T in the -Z direction (downward), the second lock lever 150 moves in the -X direction (leftward) due to the biasing force of the spring 155 (described later), and the engagement portions 152L, 152R again engage with the locking portions 39L, 39R.

[0084] Fig. 11(A) is a perspective view showing a state in which the first cover 20 and the second cover 30 of the image forming apparatus 1 are open. Fig. 11(B) is an enlarged perspective view showing a portion surrounded by a dashed line 11B in Fig. 11(A).

[0085] 11(B), a lever holder 56 that holds the second lock lever 150 is disposed in the housing 50 in the region between the ID unit 10 and the fixing unit 80. In particular, when the second cover 30 is closed, the lever holder 56 is located between the LED head 13 and the fixing unit 80.

[0086] The lever holder 56 has walls 56a and 56b (see FIG. 12(B) for the wall 56b) facing each other in the Y direction and a top plate 56c. The top plate 56c has openings 56d and 56e for allowing the engagement portions 152L and 152R of the second lock lever 150 to protrude in the +Z direction (upward).

[0087] 12(A) is a perspective view showing the lever holder 56 removed from FIG. 11(B). The second lock lever 150 has an abutment portion 153 adjacent to the engagement portion 152L in the -X direction (left direction). The surface of the abutment portion 153 facing the -X direction (left direction) is an inclined surface that is inclined with respect to the Y direction.

[0088] 12(B) is a perspective view, seen from below, of the second lock lever 150 and the lever holder 56 that supports it. The second lock lever 150 is sandwiched between walls 56a and 56b of the lever holder 56 on both sides in the Y direction and held so as to be movable in the X direction.

[0089] A spring 155 serving as a second biasing member is held inside the lever holder 56. The spring 155 abuts against an abutment portion 154 of the second lock lever 150, and biases the second lock lever 150 in the −X direction (leftward).

[0090] The second lock lever 150 moves in the -X direction (leftward) due to the biasing force of the spring 155, and the engagement portions 152L, 152R of the second lock lever 150 engage with the latching portions 39L, 39R of the second cover 30 (FIGS. 10(B) and 10(C)). This locks the second cover 30 in the closed position. The second cover 30 is unlocked by the release lever 40, which will be described below.

[0091] <Release lever> Next, the release lever 40 that unlocks the second cover 30 will be described. Fig. 13(A) is a bottom view showing the second cover 30. As shown in Fig. 13(A), the release lever 40 is provided near the end of the second cover 30 in the -X direction (left direction). The release lever 40 is long in the Y direction, and is held by a lever guide 42 so as to be movable in the Y direction. The release lever 40 protrudes from the second cover 30 in the -Y direction (forward).

[0092] Figure 13(B) is an enlarged bottom view of the portion surrounded by dashed line 13B in Figure 13(A). As shown in Figure 13(B), release lever 40 has a pressing portion 41 that abuts against and presses abutment portion 153 of second lock lever 150. In the state shown in Figure 13(B), pressing portion 41 is located at a position spaced apart from abutment portion 153 in the -Y direction (forward).

[0093] Fig. 13(C) is a bottom view showing a state in which the release lever 40 has been pushed in the +Y direction (rearward) from Fig. 13(B). As shown in Fig. 13(C), when the release lever 40 is pushed in as indicated by arrow F, the pressing portion 41 of the release lever 40 comes into contact with and presses the contact portion 153 of the second lock lever 150.

[0094] The surface of the abutting portion 153 that abuts against the pressing portion 41 is inclined with respect to the Y direction. Therefore, when the abutting portion 153 is pressed in the +Y direction by the pressing portion 41, the second lock lever 150 moves in the +X direction (rightward).

[0095] When the second lock lever 150 moves in the +X direction (rightward), the engagement portions 152L, 152R of the second lock lever 150 move away from the engagement portions 39L, 39R of the second cover 30 (FIGS. 10B and 10C).

[0096] Fig. 14(A) is a perspective view showing the release lever 40 and its surrounding members in the second cover 30. As shown in Fig. 14(A), the release lever 40 is supported by a lever guide 42 so as to be movable in the Y direction, and protrudes from the second cover 30 in the -Y direction (forward).

[0097] Fig. 14(B) is a partially sectional perspective view showing the release lever 40 and the surrounding members of the second cover 30. Fig. 14(C) is a bottom view showing the release lever 40 and the surrounding members of the second cover 30.

[0098] As shown in Figures 14(B) and (C), inside the lever guide 42 and in the +Y direction (rearward) of the release lever 40, a spring 45 is arranged as an unlocking biasing member that biases the release lever 40 in the -Y direction (forward).

[0099] The spring 45 is disposed between an abutment 46 provided on the lever guide 42 and the end (rear end) of the spring 45 in the +Y direction, and biases the release lever 40 in the -Y direction (forward). The biasing force of the spring 45 causes the release lever 40 to be in a position protruding from the second cover 30 in the -Y direction (forward).

[0100] When the user pushes the release lever 40 in the +Y direction (rearward), the release lever 40 moves in the +Y direction against the biasing force of the spring 45, and the pressing portion 41 of the release lever 40 shown in Figures 13(B) and (C) comes into contact with and presses the abutment portion 153 of the second lock lever 150.

[0101] This causes the second lock lever 150 to move in the +X direction (rightward), and the engagement portions 152L, 152R of the second lock lever 150 move away in the +X direction from the engagement portions 39L, 39R (FIGS. 10B, 10C) of the second cover 30. This releases the lock on the second cover 30 by the second lock lever 150.

[0102] Since the first cover 20 is located in the -Y direction (front) of the second cover 30, the user can operate the release lever 40 only when the first cover 20 is rotated relative to the second cover 30 (FIG. 5(B)). The release lever 40 is operated from the -Y side (front side) of the second cover 30, i.e., the toner cartridge 17 side.

[0103] <Head holder> Next, the head holder 60 that holds the LED head 13 will be described. Fig. 15(A) is a perspective view of the second cover 30 and the head holder 60 seen from above. Fig. 15(B) is a perspective view of the second cover 30 and the head holder 60 seen from below. The head holder 60 holds the LED head 13 and is connected to the end (front end) of the second cover 30 in the -Y direction.

[0104] The head holder 60 has a head support part 61 extending in the X direction, an arm 62L extending in the +Z direction (upward) from the −X direction end (left end) of the head support part 61, and an arm 62R extending in the +Z direction from the +X direction end (right end) of the head support part 61. The head support part 61 supports the LED head 13.

[0105] The head support portion 61 and arms 62L, 62R of the head holder 60 surround the wall portion 34 in a U-shape from both sides in the X direction (left and right sides) and from the -Z side (bottom side).

[0106] The +Z direction ends (upper ends) of the arms 62L, 62R are provided with X direction rotation shafts 66. Each of the rotation shafts 66 of the arms 62L, 62R is supported by a connection part 30a provided at the −Y direction end (front end) of the second cover 30.

[0107] As a result, the arms 62L, 62R are connected at their ends (upper ends) in the +Z direction to the second cover 30. That is, the head holder 60 is supported rotatably about the rotation shaft 66 relative to the second cover 30.

[0108] Fig. 16(A) is a front view showing the head holder 60. Fig. 16(B) is an enlarged perspective view of a portion surrounded by a dashed line 16B in Fig. 16(A). Fig. 16(C) is an enlarged perspective view of a portion surrounded by a dashed line 16C in Fig. 16(A).

[0109] 16(B) and (C), a base 65 elongated in the X direction and having the LED head 13 attached thereto is housed inside the head support portion 61 of the head holder 60. The LED head 13 is attached to the −Z direction surface (lower surface) of the base 65.

[0110] 17(A) and (B) are partial cross-sectional perspective views showing the same portions of the head holder 60 as those shown in FIGS. 16(B) and (C). As shown in FIGS. 17(A) and (B), the base 65 is connected to the head support part 61 by connecting members 63L and 63R. The connecting members 63L and 63R are shaft members whose axial directions are in the Z direction.

[0111] A hole 65a for attaching the connecting member 63L is formed near the end (left end) in the -X direction of the base 65. Similarly, a hole 65b for attaching the connecting member 63R is formed near the end (right end) in the +X direction of the base 65.

[0112] A spring 64L as a pressing member is arranged around the connecting member 63L attached to the hole 65a of the base body 65. The spring 64L is compressed between the head support part 61 and the base body 65, and presses the base body 65 in the −Z direction (downward).

[0113] Similarly, a spring 64R serving as a pressing member is disposed around the connecting member 63R attached to the hole 65b of the base body 65. The spring 64R is compressed between the head support part 61 and the base body 65, and presses the base body 65 in the -Z direction (downward).

[0114] An adjustment section 69L that adjusts the gap between the head holder 60 and the photosensitive drum 11 (FIG. 1) is provided on the −Z direction (downward) of the connecting member 63L. Similarly, an adjustment section 69R that adjusts the gap between the head holder 60 and the photosensitive drum 11 (FIG. 1) is provided on the −Z direction (downward) of the connecting member 63R.

[0115] The biasing forces of the springs 64L and 64R cause the adjustment portions 69L and 69R to abut against spacers (not shown) provided on the surface of the photosensitive drum 11 (but outside the area where the electrostatic latent image is formed in the X direction), thereby controlling the distance between the LED head 13 and the surface of the photosensitive drum 11.

[0116] The biasing forces of the springs 64L and 64R are received by the second cover 30 via the head support portion 61 and the arms 62L and 62R. That is, when the second cover 30 is opened, the biasing forces of the springs 64L and 64R act in a direction that pushes up the second cover 30.

[0117] Figure 18(A) is a side view showing the interlocking state of the second cover 30 and the head holder 60. In Figure 18(A), both the first cover 20 and the second cover 30 are in the closed position.

[0118] 18(A), a link lever 160 is provided on the −X direction (left side) of the head holder 60. A cam follower 162 that engages with a cam groove G formed in the side plate 36L is attached to one end of the link lever 160. The other end of the link lever 160 is connected to a connecting shaft 67 that is provided on the arm 62L.

[0119] With this configuration, the movement locus of the head holder 60 when the second cover 30 is opened or closed is controlled by the link lever 160 and the cam groove G.

[0120] A similar link lever 160 (including a cam follower 162) may be provided on the +X direction (right side) of the head holder 60, and a cam groove G may be provided on the side plate 36R. Also, the link lever 160 and the cam groove G may be provided on only one side in the X direction of the head holder 60 (for example, the -X direction), and the head holder 60 may be operated in a cantilevered manner.

[0121] Figure 18(B) is a side view showing a state in which the first cover 20 has been rotated 180 degrees from Figure 18(A). By rotating the first cover 20 180 degrees as shown in Figure 18(B), the release lever 40 becomes operable. There is no movement of the head holder 60 between Figures 18(A) and 18(B).

[0122] Figure 18(C) is a side view showing the state in which the second cover 30 has been rotated 80 degrees from Figure 18(B). When the second cover 30 is rotated, the cam follower 162 of the link lever 160 moves from one end to the other end of the cam groove G of the side plate 36L.

[0123] As a result, the head holder 60 rotates relatively to the second cover 30 about the rotation shaft 66 while maintaining a state in which the extension direction of the arms 62L, 62R faces the Z direction (vertical direction).

[0124] That is, the head holder 60 (and the LED head 13 held thereby) rotates around the rotation axis 66, moves away from the wall portion 34 of the second cover 30, and approaches the second connecting portion (the shaft portions 37L, 23R and the holes 53a, 54a).

[0125] Furthermore, when the second cover 30 is closed (i.e., when moving from Figure 18(C) to Figure 18(B)), the head holder 60 rotates around the rotation axis 66, moving away from the second connecting portion of the second cover 30 (axis portions 37L, 23R and hole portions 53a, 54a) and approaching the wall portion 34.

[0126] <Toner cartridge> Next, the toner cartridge 17 will be described. Figure 19(A) is a perspective view showing the toner cartridge 17. Figure 19(B) is a perspective view showing the unit main body 16 of the ID unit 10. Figure 19(C) is a perspective view showing the ID unit 10.

[0127] As shown in FIG. 19(A), the toner cartridge 17 has a toner storage section 17a that stores toner, and an operating lever 17b provided at one end of the toner storage section 17a in the X direction (here, the end in the +X direction).

[0128] A toner supply port is provided at the bottom of toner storage section 17a, and a shutter for opening and closing the toner supply port is provided inside toner storage section 17a. The shutter is opened and closed by operating lever 17b.

[0129] As shown in Figure 19(B), a cartridge mounting portion 16a into which a toner cartridge 17 (Figure 19(A)) is mounted is formed in the unit main body 16. A fitting portion 16b that engages with a fitting hole provided in an operating lever 17b of the toner cartridge 17 is provided inside the cartridge mounting portion 16a.

[0130] As shown in Figure 19(C), when the toner cartridge 17 is attached to the cartridge attachment portion 16a (Figure 19(B)) of the unit main body 16, the fitting portion 16b (Figure 19(B)) of the unit main body 16 enters the fitting hole provided in the operating lever 17b of the toner cartridge 17.

[0131] From this state, when the operating lever 17b of the toner cartridge 17 is rotated in the direction indicated by the arrow, a shutter in the toner storage section 17a opens the toner supply port, allowing toner to be supplied from the toner storage section 17a into the unit body 16. Furthermore, the rotation of the operating lever 17b holds the fitting section 16b so that it does not come out of the fitting hole of the operating lever 17b. This locks the toner cartridge 17 to the unit body 16.

[0132] When removing the toner cartridge 17 from the unit body 16, the operating lever 17b is rotated in the direction opposite to the arrow, causing the shutter in the toner storage section 17a to close the toner supply port and unlocking the toner cartridge 17.

[0133] <Fusing unit> Next, we will explain the fixing unit 80. Figures 20A and 20B are perspective views showing the fixing unit 80. The fixing unit 80 has a unit housing 83 that houses a fixing roller 81 and a pressure roller 82 (Figure 1), and a grip part 85 provided in the +Z direction (upward) of the unit housing 83.

[0134] An inlet 83a that guides the medium M into the unit housing 83 is formed in the -Y direction (front) of the unit housing 83. An outlet (not shown) that discharges the medium M from the unit housing 83 is formed in the +Y direction (rear) of the unit housing 83.

[0135] Lock arms 84L and 84R are also provided on the unit housing 83. The lock arms 84L and 84R are rotatable about X-direction rotation shafts 86L and 86R provided on both sides of the unit housing 83 in the X direction. The lock arms 84L and 84R are configured to be engageable with an engagement portion (fixing unit engagement portion) for the fixing unit 80 provided inside the housing 50.

[0136] As shown in Figures 20(A) and (B), when the extension direction of the lock arms 84L, 84R is inclined at a predetermined angle (for example, 45 degrees) with respect to the Z direction, the lock arms 84L, 84R engage with the fixing unit engagement portion provided in the housing 50, and the fixing unit 80 is locked within the housing 50.

[0137] 20(C) and (D) are perspective views showing a state in which the lock arms 84L and 84R are rotated from the state shown in FIGS. 20(A) and (B). As shown in FIGS. 20(C) and (D), when the user operates the lock arms 84L and 84R and the extension directions of the lock arms 84L and 84R become the Z direction, the lock arms 84L and 84R are disengaged from the fixing unit engaging portions inside the housing 50. This allows the fixing unit 80 to be removed from the housing 50.

[0138] <Transfer unit> Next, the transfer unit 70 will be described. Figures 21(A) and (B) are perspective views showing the transfer unit 70. The transfer unit 70 has the transfer roller 71 described with reference to Figure 1, and a frame 72 that holds the transfer roller 71. The surface (upper surface) of the frame 72 in the +Z direction forms a transport surface 73 along which the medium M is transported.

[0139] Handles 77L and 77R are formed on both sides of the frame 72 in the X direction, and are gripped by the user when removing the transfer unit 70 from the housing 50.

[0140] Lock handles 75L and 75R are also arranged on both sides of the frame 72 in the X direction. The lock handles 75L and 75R are attached to the frame 72 so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis in the X direction. The lock handles 75L and 75R are formed with engagement pieces 76L and 76R that can engage with an engagement portion for the transfer unit 70 (transfer unit engagement portion) provided inside the housing 50.

[0141] 21(A) and 21(B), when the extending direction of the engagement pieces 76L, 76R of the lock handles 75L, 75R is parallel to the Y direction, the engagement pieces 76L, 76R engage with the transfer unit engagement portions inside the housing 50. In this case, the transfer unit 70 is locked inside the housing 50.

[0142] 21(C) and (D), when the lock handles 75L, 75R are rotated a predetermined angle, the engagement pieces 76L, 76R are disengaged from the transfer unit engagement portions inside the housing 50. This allows the transfer unit 70 to be removed from the housing 50.

[0143] <First and second regions in the housing> 22(A) and (B) are perspective views showing a state in which the first cover 20 and the second cover 30 of the image forming apparatus 1 are open. Opening the second cover 30 exposes the first area 101 and the second area 102 in the housing 50, allowing access to the ID unit 10 (including the toner cartridge 17) and the fixing unit 80. In this state, these components can be attached and detached.

[0144] 22C and 22D are perspective views showing a state in which the first cover 20 and the second cover 30 of the image forming apparatus 1 are opened and the ID unit 10, the transfer unit 70, and the fixing unit 80 are removed. As described above, within the housing 50, the space in the -Y direction (front) is the first area 101, and the space in the +Y direction (rear) is the second area 102.

[0145] Furthermore, a lever holder 56 that holds a second lock lever 150 (FIGS. 10(A) to (C)) is disposed between the first area 101 and the second area 102.

[0146] Furthermore, when the second cover 30 is open as shown in Figures 22(A) to (D), it is most desirable that the first cover 20 and the second cover 30 do not protrude further in the +Y direction (rearward) than the +Y direction end (rear end) of the housing 50.

[0147] For example, if the rear cover 52 of the housing 50 is provided with a protrusion 52a (Figure 7(A)), it is most desirable that the first cover 20 and the second cover 30 do not protrude further in the +Y direction (rearward) than the protrusion 52a.

[0148] Furthermore, when installing the image forming apparatus 1, if the operating manual or the like specifies that a certain space must be left in the +Y direction (rear) of the image forming apparatus 1 in consideration of the heat of the fixing unit 80, it is most desirable that the first cover 20 and the second cover 30 do not protrude in the +Y direction (rear) beyond this specified space.

[0149] <Printing operation of image forming device> Next, the printing operation of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 1. When the control unit of the image forming apparatus 1 receives a print command and print data from a host device, it starts the printing operation (image forming operation).

[0150] When the printing operation starts, the pickup roller 111, paper feed roller 112, and separation roller 113 of the medium supply unit 110 rotate, sending the media M stored in the medium cassette 90 one sheet at a time onto the paper feed transport path P1. In addition, the intermediate transport roller 114 rotates, transporting the medium M along the paper feed transport path P1. Furthermore, the transport roller 115 begins to rotate at a predetermined timing, correcting any skew in the medium M and transporting it along the transfer transport path P2 to the transfer unit 70.

[0151] In the ID unit 10, a charging voltage, a developing voltage, and a supply voltage are applied to the charging roller 12, the developing roller 14, and the supply roller 15, respectively. Furthermore, the photosensitive drum 11 rotates, and accordingly the charging roller 12, the developing roller 14, and the supply roller 15 also rotate. The charging roller 12 uniformly charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 11. The LED head 13 exposes the uniformly charged surface of the photosensitive drum 11 to light, forming an electrostatic latent image.

[0152] The electrostatic latent image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 11 is developed by the toner attached to the developing roller 14, and a toner image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 11. When the toner image approaches the surface of the transfer roller 71 due to the rotation of the photosensitive drum 11, a transfer voltage is applied to the transfer roller 71.

[0153] As a result, the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 11 is transferred to the medium M passing between the photosensitive drum 11 and the transfer roller 71. The medium M onto which the toner image has been transferred is transported to the fixing unit 80 by the rotation of the photosensitive drum 11.

[0154] In the fixing unit 80, a fixing roller 81 and a pressure roller 82 rotate with a fixing nip formed, and the surface of the fixing roller 81 is heated to a predetermined fixing temperature. When the medium M passes through the fixing nip between the fixing roller 81 and the pressure roller 82, heat and pressure are applied to the unfixed toner on the medium M, and the toner image is fixed to the medium M.

[0155] The medium M with the fixed toner image is transported along the discharge transport path P3 by discharge rollers 121 and 122 of the medium discharge unit 120 and is discharged from the discharge port 123. The discharged medium M is stacked on the stacker units 20S and 30S. This completes the printing operation.

[0156] <Installing and removing the toner cartridge> Next, the installation and removal of the toner cartridge 17 will be described. In the state shown in Figure 5(A), as described above, the first cover 20 and the second cover 30 of the image forming apparatus 1 are in the closed position. When removing the toner cartridge 17 from the housing 50, the user inserts their finger through the opening 51a of the front cover 51 and lifts up the front end of the first cover 20.

[0157] This releases the lock on the first cover 20 by the first lock lever 140 (Figures 8(A) and (B)), and the first cover 20 rotates 180 degrees around the first connecting portion (shaft portions 23L, 23R and hole portions 33L, 33R) to reach the open position shown in Figure 5(B).

[0158] Opening the first cover 20 opens the first area 101 (FIG. 1) inside the housing 50, allowing access to the toner cartridge 17. In this state, the operating lever 17b of the toner cartridge 17 is rotated to release the lock, and the toner cartridge 17 is removed from the unit body 16 of the ID unit 10.

[0159] In this state, the wall 34 is disposed on the second cover 30 side of the first area 101 where the toner cartridge 17 was housed. Therefore, even when the toner cartridge 17 is removed, access to the second area 102 located on the rear side (+Y direction) of the wall 34 is restricted.

[0160] Furthermore, as described above, the height of the second portion 35b (FIG. 3C) in the +X direction (right side) is lower than the center of the plate 35, which makes it easier for the user to operate the operating lever 17b of the toner cartridge 17 when the first cover 20 is open and the second cover 30 is closed as shown in FIG. 5B. This also makes it easier to insert a finger into the second portion 35b of the plate 35, grasp the operating lever 17b, and remove the toner cartridge 17.

[0161] Furthermore, when the second cover 30 is closed, the gap between the first portion 35a (FIG. 3(C)) including the central portion of the plate 35 in the X direction and the ID unit 10 is narrow, making it difficult for the user's fingers to fit in. This prevents the ID unit 10 (together with the toner cartridge 17) from being accidentally removed when the second cover 30 is closed.

[0162] When installing the toner cartridge 17 in the housing 50, the toner cartridge 17 is installed in the first region 101 inside the housing 50, and the operating lever 17b is rotated to lock the toner cartridge 17. Then, the first cover 20 is rotated from the open position shown in FIG. 5(B) to the closed position shown in FIG. 5(A).

[0163] When the first cover 20 is rotated to the closed position, the locking claw 24 (Fig. 8(B)) of the first cover 20 abuts against the inclined surface S1 of the engaging portion 141 of the first lock lever 140, and the first lock lever 140 is moved in the +X direction against the biasing force of the spring 145.

[0164] When the locking claw 24 reaches the inclined surface S2 of the engaging portion 141 of the first lock lever 140, the first lock lever 140 is moved in the -X direction by the biasing force of the spring 145, and the locking claw 24 and the first lock lever 140 are engaged. Thereby, the first cover 20 is locked in the closed position.

[0165] <Detachment and attachment of the ID unit> Next, the detachment and attachment of the ID unit 10 will be described. When removing the ID unit 10 from the housing 50, the user rotates the first cover 20 to the open position shown in Fig. 5(B) in the same manner as when removing the toner cartridge 17.

[0166] By rotating the first cover 20 to the open position, the release lever 40 of the second cover 30 becomes operable, so the user pushes the release lever 40 (Fig. 13(B),(C)) in the +Y direction (rearward).

[0167] By pushing in the release lever 40, the second lock lever 150 is moved in the +X direction (right direction), and the engaging portions 152L, 152R (Fig. 10(B),(C)) of the second lock lever 150 are separated from the locking portions 39L, 39R of the second cover 30. Thereby, the lock of the second cover 30 is released.

[0168] Thereafter, as shown in Fig. 5(C), the user rotates the second cover 30 by 80 degrees about the second connecting portion (shaft portions 37L, 37R and hole portions 53a, 54a). Note that the second cover 30 rotates with the first cover 20 overlapping it on the upper side.

[0169] 22(A) and (B), opening the second cover 30 opens the first area 101 and the second area 102 (FIG. 1) in the housing 50, allowing access to the ID unit 10. In this state, the ID unit 10 is lifted and removed from the housing 50.

[0170] When attaching the ID unit 10 to the housing 50, the ID unit 10 is attached to the designated mounting position of the housing 50, and then the second cover 30 is rotated from the open position shown in Figure 5(C) to the closed position shown in Figure 5(B).

[0171] The release lever 40 (FIG. 13(B)) of the second cover 30 has returned to its position before operation due to the biasing force of the spring 45. When the second cover 30 is rotated to the closed position, the locking portions 39L, 39R (FIGS. 10(B) and 10(C)) of the second cover 30 come into contact with the inclined surfaces T of the engaging portions 152L, 152R of the second lock lever 150, moving the second lock lever 150 in the +X direction (rightward).

[0172] When the locking portions 39L, 39R pass over the inclined surface T, the second lock lever 150 moves in the −X direction (leftward) due to the biasing force of the spring 155. As a result, the engaging portions 152L, 152R of the second lock lever 150 engage with the locking portions 39L, 39R of the second cover 30, and the second cover 30 is locked.

[0173] The user then rotates the first cover 20 from the open position shown in Fig. 5(B) to the closed position shown in Fig. 5(A). The operation of rotating the first cover 20 to the open position is the same as when installing the toner cartridge 17.

[0174] <Attaching and detaching the transfer unit> Next, the attachment and detachment of the transfer unit 70 will be described. When removing the transfer unit 70 from the housing 50, the user rotates the first cover 20 to the open position shown in FIG. 5(B) and then rotates the second cover 30 to the open position shown in FIG. 5(C), in the same manner as when removing the ID unit 10. Then, the ID unit 10 is removed from the housing 50 as described above. By removing the ID unit 10 from the housing 50, the transfer unit 70 becomes accessible.

[0175] With the ID unit 10 removed from the housing 50, the user operates the lock handles 75L, 75R (FIGS. 21A and 21B) of the transfer unit 70 to unlock it. Then, the user grasps the handles 77L, 77R and lifts the transfer unit 70 to remove it from the housing 50.

[0176] When attaching the transfer unit 70 to the housing 50, after storing the transfer unit 70 in the housing 50, the lock handles 75L and 75R are operated to lock the fixing unit 80, and then the ID unit 10 is stored in the housing 50. Thereafter, in the same manner as when attaching the ID unit 10, the second cover 30 is rotated from the open position shown in Fig. 5(C) to the closed position shown in Fig. 5(B), and further the first cover 20 is rotated from the open position shown in Fig. 5(B) to the closed position shown in Fig. 5(A).

[0177] <Installing and removing the fixing unit> Next, we will explain how to attach and detach the fixing unit 80. When removing the fixing unit 80 from the housing 50, the user rotates the first cover 20 to the open position shown in Fig. 5(B) in the same way as when removing the ID unit 10, and then rotates the second cover 30 to the open position shown in Fig. 5(C).

[0178] Opening the second cover 30 opens the first area 101 and the second area 102 (FIG. 1) inside the housing 50, allowing access to the fixing unit 80. In this state, the user operates the lock arms 84L, 84R (FIGS. 20A-20D) of the fixing unit 80 to release the lock. Then, the user grasps the grip 85 and lifts up the fixing unit 80 to remove it from the housing 50.

[0179] When attaching the fixing unit 80 to the housing 50, after storing the fixing unit 80 in the housing 50, the locking arms 84L and 84R are operated to lock the fixing unit 80. Then, in the same manner as when attaching the ID unit 10, the second cover 30 is rotated to the closed position shown in FIG. 5(B), and the first cover 20 is further rotated to the closed position shown in FIG. 5(A).

[0180] <Removing jammed media> Next, removal of jammed media from the media transport path P will be described. Figure 23(A) is a perspective view showing the state in which the media cassette 90 has been removed from the image forming apparatus 1. Figure 23(B) is a perspective view of the media cassette 90 as seen from above. The separation roller 113 described with reference to Figure 1 is disposed at the end (front end) of the media cassette 90 in the -Y direction.

[0181] If a jam of the medium M occurs in the medium transport path P between the pickup roller 111 and the intermediate transport roller 114, the transport path (paper feed transport path P1) from the pickup roller 111 to the intermediate transport roller 114 is opened by removing the medium cassette 90 from the housing 50. This allows the jammed medium M to be removed.

[0182] If a jam of the medium M occurs in the medium transport path P between the intermediate transport rollers 114 and the fixing roller 81, the ID unit 10 is removed from the housing 50 as described above to open the transport path from the intermediate transport rollers 114 to the fixing roller 81 (part of the paper feed transport path P1 and the transfer transport path P2). This allows the jammed medium M to be removed.

[0183] If a jam of the medium M occurs in the medium transport path P between the fixing roller 81 and the discharge roller 122, the fixing unit 80 is removed from the housing 50 as described above to open the transport path (discharge transport path P3) from the fixing roller 81 to the discharge roller 122. This allows the jammed medium M to be removed.

[0184] 23(A) and 23(B), if a jam of the medium M occurs between the discharge rollers 122 and the re-conveyance rollers 134 of the re-conveyance mechanism 130, the first cover 20 and the second cover 30 are opened and the ID unit 10, the transfer unit 70, and the fixing unit 80 are removed, thereby opening the conveyance path (return conveyance path P4) from the discharge rollers 122 to the re-conveyance rollers 134. This allows the jammed medium M to be removed.

[0185] Here, the installation and removal (replacement) of the toner cartridge 17, ID unit 10, transfer unit 70, and fixing unit 80 and the removal of the medium M have been described, but this embodiment can also be applied to the replacement and maintenance of other parts.

[0186] <Effects of the embodiment> As described above, the image forming apparatus 1 as a medium conveying device of this embodiment has a housing 50 with a medium conveying path P provided inside, a first component (e.g., toner cartridge 17) and a second component (e.g., ID unit 10) arranged inside the housing 50, a first cover 20 covering a first region 101 in which the first component is housed, a second cover 30 covering a second region 102 in which the second component is housed, a first connecting portion (shafts 23L, 23R and holes 33L, 33R) that connects the first cover 20 and the second cover 30 and supports the first cover 20 so that it can be opened and closed relative to the first region 101, and a second connecting portion (shafts 37L, 37R and holes 53a, 54a) that connects the housing 50 and the second cover 30 and supports the second cover 30 so that it can be opened and closed relative to the second region 102. The second cover 30 has a wall portion 34 located between the first area 101 and the second area 102 when the first cover 20 is open and the second cover 30 is closed. When the first cover 20 is open, the wall portion 34 restricts access to the second area 102 while allowing the first component in the first area 101 to be attached and detached, and when the second cover 30 is open, the first component in the first area 101 and the second component in the second area 102 to be attached and detached.

[0187] This configuration allows the user to open the first cover 20 to replace a first component, and open the second cover 30 to replace a second component. Compared to a single cover, less space is required for opening and closing each cover 20, 30. Therefore, even if the image forming apparatus 1 is installed in a small space, there is no need to pull the image forming apparatus 1 out into a larger space for component replacement, reducing the burden on the user. Furthermore, when only the first cover 20 is open, access to the second area 102 is restricted by the wall 34, preventing the user from accessing the wrong component.

[0188] Furthermore, first cover 20 is rotatable about a first rotation axis (shafts 23L and 23R), and second cover 30 is rotatable about a second rotation axis (shafts 37L and 37R) that is parallel to the first rotation axis, and the arrangement direction of first cover 20 and second cover 30 is perpendicular to both rotation axes. Therefore, first cover 20 and second cover 30 can be configured compactly, and image forming apparatus 1 can be installed in a smaller space.

[0189] Furthermore, the second component is disposed adjacent to the media transport path P, and opening the second cover 30 and removing the second component allows access to the media transport path P. Therefore, by opening the second cover 30 and removing the second component, jammed media can be removed.

[0190] Furthermore, the first area 101 is located on one side (for example, the +Z side) of the medium transport path P (for example, the transfer transport path P2), and the second area 102 is on the same side of the medium transport path as the first area 101 and is adjacent to the first area 101. Therefore, each component that processes the transported medium M can be placed in the first area 101 and the second area 102.

[0191] Also provided are a locking section (second locking lever 150 and engaging sections 39L, 39R) that locks second cover 30 when second cover 30 is closed, and a release lever 40 that serves as an unlocking section that unlocks second cover 30 locked by the locking section, and release lever 40 can be operated by opening first cover 20. Therefore, second cover 30 can be opened only when necessary, preventing erroneous operation.

[0192] Additionally, second cover 30 is provided with locking portions 39L, 39R, and housing 50 is provided with second lock lever 150 as a lock lever that engages with locking portions 39L, 39R when second cover 30 is closed. When release lever 40 as an unlocking portion is operated, release lever 40 moves second lock lever 150, releasing the engagement between second lock lever 150 and locking portions 39L, 39R. Therefore, unlocking of second cover 30 by operating release lever 40 can be achieved with a simple configuration.

[0193] Additionally, an ID unit 10 and a fixing unit 80 serving as image forming units are disposed within a housing 50 of the image forming apparatus 1, and a toner cartridge 17 serving as a developer container is attached to the ID unit 10. An LED head 13 serving as an exposure unit is supported on the second cover 30 and faces the ID unit 10 when the second cover 30 is closed. When the second cover 30 is closed, the second lock lever 150 is positioned between the fixing unit 80 and the LED head 13, and the release lever 40 is operated from the toner cartridge 17 side. Therefore, the components required for locking and unlocking the second cover 30 can be disposed in a narrow space within the housing 50.

[0194] Furthermore, the first connecting portions (shafts 23L, 23R and holes 33L, 33R) are provided at positions protruding from the surfaces (top panels 21, 31) of the first cover 20 and the second cover 30, and the housing 50 is provided with a display unit 55a that protrudes from the surface (top surface 54b) of the housing 50 on the same side as the first connecting portions, adjacent to the first connecting portions (shafts 23L, 23R and holes 33L, 33R) in the width direction of the medium. Therefore, the protruding portions of the image forming device 1 can be gathered in one place in the transport direction (Y direction) of the medium M, and the image forming device 1 can be configured compactly.

[0195] The housing 50 has a discharge port 123 as a discharge section for discharging the medium M that has passed through the medium transport path P, and the first cover 20 and the second cover 30 have a first stacker unit 20S and a second stacker unit 30S for placing the medium M discharged from the discharge port 123. The first stacker unit 20S is disposed downstream of the second stacker unit 30S in the discharge direction of the medium M from the discharge port 123. When the first cover 20 is opened, the first cover 20 overlaps the second cover 30 so that the first stacker unit 20S and the second stacker unit 30S face each other. Therefore, the second cover 30 can be opened with the first cover 20 overlapping the second cover 30, thereby reducing the space required around the image forming apparatus 1.

[0196] Furthermore, the first connecting portions (shafts 23L, 23R and holes 33L, 33R) are disposed outside the first stacker unit 20S and the second stacker unit 30S in the width direction (X direction) of the medium M. Therefore, the first cover 20 can be stacked on the second cover 30 without interfering with the first connecting portions, and the space required around the image forming apparatus 1 can be further reduced.

[0197] A head holder 60 serving as a holder is rotatably attached to the second cover 30, and the head holder 60 holds the LED head 13 serving as an exposure unit. A link lever 160 serving as a link mechanism moves the head holder 60 and the LED head 13 closer to the wall 34 when the second cover 30 is closed, and moves the head holder 60 and the LED head 13 away from the wall 34 and closer to the second connecting unit (the shafts 37L, 23R and the holes 53a, 54a) when the second cover 30 is opened. Therefore, regardless of whether the second cover 30 is open or closed, the orientation of the head holder 60 can be kept constant, and the LED head 13 supported by the head holder 60 can be protected.

[0198] The first component is a toner cartridge 17 serving as a developer container, and the second component is a photosensitive drum 11 serving as an image carrier. The second cover 30 supports an LED head 13 serving as an exposure unit that faces the photosensitive drum 11 when the second cover is closed. When the second cover 30 is open, the first cover 20 is located on the opposite side of the second cover 30 from the LED head 13. Therefore, the first cover 20 can be placed on the second cover 30 without interfering with the LED head 13.

[0199] Furthermore, the opening and closing angle of the second cover 30 is less than 90 degrees, and when the second cover 30 is open, the first cover 20 and the second cover 30 do not protrude in the +Y direction (rearward) beyond the housing 50, or do not protrude in the +Y direction (rearward) beyond a specified space set behind the housing 50. Therefore, the space required behind the image forming apparatus 1 can be minimized.

[0200] Various aspects of the present disclosure are summarized below as appendices. (Appendix 1) a device body having a medium transport path provided therein; a first component and a second component disposed inside the device body; a first cover that covers a first area in which the first component is housed; a second cover that covers a second area in which the second component is housed; a first connecting portion that connects the first cover and the second cover and supports the first cover so as to be openable and closable relative to the first region; a second connecting portion that connects the device body and the second cover and supports the second cover so as to be openable and closable relative to the second region; and the second cover has a wall portion located between the first area and the second area when the first cover is open and the second cover is closed, When the first cover is opened, the wall portion restricts access to the second area while allowing the first component to be attached and detached in the first area; When the second cover is opened, the first component in the first area and the second component in the second area can be attached or detached. A medium transport device characterized by: (Appendix 2) the first cover is rotatable about a first rotation axis; the second cover is rotatable about a second rotation axis parallel to the first rotation axis; The arrangement direction of the first cover and the second cover is perpendicular to the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis. 2. A medium transport device according to claim 1. (Appendix 3) the second component is positioned adjacent to the media transport path; Opening the second cover and removing the second part allows access to the media transport path. 3. A medium transport device according to claim 1 or 2. (Appendix 4) the first area is located on one side of the medium transport path, The second area is adjacent to the first area on the same side of the medium transport path as the first area. 4. A medium transport device according to any one of claims 1 to 3. (Appendix 5) a locking portion that locks the second cover in a closed state; an unlocking unit that unlocks the second cover by the locking unit; and The unlocking unit can be operated by opening the first cover. 5. A medium transport device according to any one of claims 1 to 4. (Appendix 6) The locking portion is a locking portion provided on the second cover; a lock lever that is provided on the device body and engages with the locking portion when the second cover is closed; and When the lock release portion is operated, the lock release portion moves the lock lever to release the engagement between the lock lever and the engaging portion. 6. A medium transport device according to claim 5. (Appendix 7) the medium transport device is an image forming device, The device body is provided with an image forming unit that forms an image on a medium and a fixing unit that fixes the image on the medium, a developer container is attached to the image forming unit, an exposure unit that faces the image forming unit when the second cover is closed is supported by the second cover; the lock lever is disposed between the fixing unit and the exposure unit when the second cover is closed, The lock release portion is operated from the developer container side to release the lock by the lock lever. 7. A medium transport device according to claim 6. (Appendix 8) the first connecting portion is provided at a position protruding from a surface of the first cover and the second cover, The device body has a display unit that is adjacent to the first connecting unit in the width direction of the medium and that protrudes from the surface of the device body on the same side as the first connecting unit. 7. A medium transport device according to any one of claims 1 to 6. (Appendix 9) the device body has a discharge unit that discharges the medium that has passed through the medium transport path, the first cover has a first stacker section on which the medium discharged from the discharge section is placed, the second cover has a second stacker section on which the medium discharged from the discharge section is placed, the first stacker unit is disposed downstream of the second stacker unit in a direction in which the media are discharged from the discharge unit; When the first cover is opened, the first cover is placed on the second cover so that the first stacker unit and the second stacker unit face each other. 9. A medium transport device according to any one of claims 1 to 8. (Appendix 10) The first connecting portion is disposed on the outer side of the first stacker portion and the second stacker portion in the width direction of the medium. 10. The medium transport device according to claim 9, (Appendix 11) a holder rotatably attached to the second cover; an exposure unit held by the holder; a link mechanism that moves the holder and the exposure unit closer to the wall when the second cover is closed, and moves the holder and the exposure unit away from the wall and closer to the second connecting unit when the second cover is opened; 11. A medium transport device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising: (Appendix 12) the medium transport device is an image forming device, the first component has a developer container; the second component has an image carrier; an exposure unit of the second component that faces the image carrier when the second cover is closed is supported by the second cover; When the second cover is opened, the first cover is located on the opposite side of the second cover from the exposure portion. 12. A medium transport device according to any one of claims 1 to 11. (Appendix 13) The opening and closing angle of the second cover is less than 90 degrees, If the first cover side is defined as the front and the second cover side is defined as the rear, when the second cover is open, the first cover and the second cover do not protrude rearward beyond the device main body or beyond a specified space set behind the device main body. 13. A medium transport device according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

[0201] While the preferred embodiments have been specifically described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various improvements and modifications can be made. The above-described embodiments can be combined as appropriate.

[0202] Although a printer has been described as an example of an image forming apparatus here, the image forming apparatus of this embodiment can also be applied to copying machines, facsimiles, MFPs (Multifunction Peripherals), and the like. [Explanation of symbols]

[0203] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 image forming apparatus (medium conveying device), 10 ID unit (image forming unit, second part), 11 photosensitive drum (image carrier), 12 charging roller (charging member), 13 LED head (exposure head, exposure unit), 14 developing roller (developer carrier), 15 supply roller (supply roller), 16 unit body, 17 toner cartridge (first part), 20 first cover, 20S first stacker part, 23L, 23R shaft part (first connecting part), 24 locking claw, 30 second cover, 30S second stacker part, 33L, 33R hole part (first connecting part), 34 wall part, 37L, 37R shaft part (second connecting part), 39L locking part (first locking part), 39R Engagement piece (second engagement portion), 40 release lever (lock release portion), 41 pressing portion, 45 spring (first urging member), 50 housing (device main body), 51 front cover, 52 rear cover, 53, 54 side cover, 53a, 54a hole portion (second connecting portion), 54b upper end surface (surface), 55 operation panel, 55a display unit, 60 head holder (holder), 64L, 64R spring (pressing member), 66 rotating shaft, 67 connecting shaft, 70 transfer unit, 73 transport surface (media transport surface), 77L grip, 77R grip, 80 fixing unit, 90 media cassette (media storage portion), 101 first area, 102 second area, 110 Media supply section, 120 media discharge section, 123 discharge port (discharge section), 130 re-transport mechanism, 140 first lock lever, 145 spring (first urging member), 150 second lock lever (lock lever), 152L, 152R engagement section, 153 abutment section, 155 spring (second urging member), 160 link lever (link member), P media transport path, P1 paper feed transport path, P2 transfer transport path, P3 discharge transport path, P4 return transport path.

Claims

1. a device body having a medium transport path provided therein; a first component and a second component disposed inside the device body; a first cover that covers a first area in which the first component is housed; a second cover that covers a second area in which the second component is housed; a first connecting portion that connects the first cover and the second cover and supports the first cover so as to be openable and closable relative to the first region; a second connecting portion that connects the device body and the second cover and supports the second cover so as to be openable and closable relative to the second region; and the second cover has a wall portion located between the first area and the second area when the first cover is open and the second cover is closed, When the first cover is opened, the first component in the first area can be attached and detached while the wall portion restricts access to the second area, and When the second cover is opened, the first component in the first area and the second component in the second area can be attached or detached. A medium transport device characterized by:

2. the first cover is rotatable about a first rotation axis; the second cover is rotatable about a second rotation axis parallel to the first rotation axis; The arrangement direction of the first cover and the second cover is perpendicular to the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis. The medium transport device according to claim 1 .

3. the second component is disposed adjacent to the media transport path; Opening the second cover and removing the second part allows access to the media transport path.

3. The medium transport device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. the first area is located on one side of the medium transport path, The second area is adjacent to the first area on the same side of the medium transport path as the first area.

3. The medium transport device according to claim 1 or 2.

5. a locking portion that locks the second cover in a closed state; an unlocking unit that unlocks the second cover by the locking unit; and The unlocking unit can be operated by opening the first cover.

3. The medium transport device according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The locking portion is a locking portion provided on the second cover; a lock lever that is provided on the device body and engages with the locking portion when the second cover is closed; and When the lock release portion is operated, the lock release portion moves the lock lever to release the engagement between the lock lever and the engaging portion. The medium transport device according to claim 5 .

7. the medium transport device is an image forming device, The device body is provided with an image forming unit that forms an image on a medium and a fixing unit that fixes the image on the medium, a developer container is attached to the image forming unit, an exposure unit that faces the image forming unit when the second cover is closed is supported by the second cover; the lock lever is disposed between the fixing unit and the exposure unit when the second cover is closed, The lock release portion is operated from the developer container side to release the lock by the lock lever. The medium transport device according to claim 6 .

8. the first connecting portion is provided at a position protruding from a surface of the first cover and the second cover, The device body has a display portion adjacent to the first connecting portion in the width direction of the medium and protruding from a surface of the device body on the same side as the first connecting portion.

3. The medium transport device according to claim 1 or 2.

9. the device body has a discharge unit that discharges the medium that has passed through the medium transport path, the first cover has a first stacker section on which the medium discharged from the discharge section is placed, the second cover has a second stacker section on which the medium discharged from the discharge section is placed, the first stacker unit is disposed downstream of the second stacker unit in a direction in which the media are discharged from the discharge unit; When the first cover is opened, the first cover is placed on the second cover so that the first stacker unit and the second stacker unit face each other.

3. The medium transport device according to claim 1 or 2.

10. The first connecting portion is disposed on the outer side of the first stacker portion and the second stacker portion in the width direction of the medium. The medium transport device according to claim 9 .

11. a holder rotatably attached to the second cover; an exposure unit held by the holder; a link mechanism that moves the holder and the exposure unit closer to the wall portion when the second cover is closed, and moves the holder and the exposure unit away from the wall portion and closer to the second connecting portion when the second cover is opened; 3. The medium transport device according to claim 1, further comprising:

12. the medium transport device is an image forming device, the first component includes a developer container; the second component has an image carrier; an exposure unit of the second component that faces the image carrier when the second cover is closed is supported by the second cover; When the second cover is opened, the first cover is located on the opposite side of the second cover from the exposure portion.

3. The medium transport device according to claim 1 or 2.

13. The opening and closing angle of the second cover is less than 90 degrees, If the first cover side is defined as the front and the second cover side is defined as the rear, when the second cover is open, the first cover and the second cover do not protrude rearward beyond the device main body or beyond a specified space set behind the device main body.

3. The medium transport device according to claim 1 or 2.

Images