Toner cartridge, toner supply mechanism, and shutter

Abstract

To solve the problem occurring to a toner cartridge.SOLUTION: A toner cartridge comprises a container that includes a storage part and an exhaust port, and an opening / closing member that includes a closing part and an engaging part. The engaging part can move between an engaging position and a retreat position with respect to the closing part, and moves from the retreat position to the engaging position in association with the opening / closing member rotating from a closed position to an open position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a toner cartridge, a toner supply mechanism, and a shutter for electrophotographic image formation. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art In electrophotographic image forming apparatuses, a configuration is known in which elements such as a photosensitive drum and a developing roller, which are rotating bodies involved in image formation, are integrated into a cartridge that is detachably mountable to the image forming apparatus main body (hereinafter referred to as the apparatus main body).

[0003] One known configuration for providing a detachable cartridge in an image forming device in this manner is one in which a toner cartridge containing toner (developer) consumed during image formation can be replaced separately from the photosensitive drum and developing roller.

[0004] In such a configuration, the toner (developer) contained in the toner cartridge is delivered through the discharge port to a developing device having a developing roller, etc. Also, a configuration is known in which an opening / closing member such as a shutter is provided to open and close the discharge port in order to prevent the toner from leaking to the outside through the discharge port.

[0005] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration in which, when a cylindrical toner cartridge (developer supply container) is mounted in the main body of an image forming apparatus, the toner cartridge is rotated to open a shutter. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 7-199623 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] The object of the present invention is to improve upon the prior art mentioned above. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The first invention of the present application is: A toner cartridge that is detachable from a receiving device, a container having a storage portion for storing toner and an outlet for discharging the toner from the storage portion to the receiving device; an opening / closing member having a closing portion for closing the discharge outlet and an engaging portion movable relative to the closing portion, the opening / closing member being rotatable relative to the container between (a) an open position where the closing portion opens the discharge outlet, and (b) a closed position where the closing portion closes the discharge outlet; the engaging portion is movable relative to the closing portion between (c) an engaging position for engaging with the receiving device so as to receive a force for moving the opening / closing member from the open position to the closed position when the toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device, and (d) a retracted position retracted from the engaging position; The engaging portion is configured to move from the retracted position to the engaging position as the opening / closing member rotates from the closed position to the open position.

[0009] The second invention is: A toner cartridge that is detachable from a receiving device, a container having a storage portion for storing toner and an outlet for discharging the toner from the storage portion to the receiving device; an opening / closing member having a closing portion for closing the discharge outlet and an engaging portion movable relative to the closing portion, the opening / closing member being rotatable relative to the container between (a) an open position where the closing portion opens the discharge outlet, and (b) a closed position where the closing portion closes the discharge outlet; the engaging portion is movable relative to the closing portion between (c) an engaging position for engaging with the receiving device so as to receive a force for moving the opening / closing member from the open position to the closed position when the toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device, and (d) a retracted position retracted from the engaging position; The locking mechanism is characterized in that the locking portion is configured to move from the engagement position to the retracted position as the opening / closing member rotates from the open position to the closed position.

[0010] The third invention is a container that is a toner cartridge that can be attached to a receiving device by an attachment operation involving a rotational operation, the container having a storage portion for storing toner and an opening for discharging toner from the storage portion to the receiving device; an opening / closing member having a closing portion for closing the opening and an engaging portion movable relative to the closing portion, the opening / closing member being movable relative to the container between (a) an open position where the closing portion opens the opening, and (b) a closed position where the closing portion closes the opening, the engaging portion is movable relative to the closing portion between (c) an engaging position for engaging with the receiving device so as to receive a force for moving the opening / closing member from the open position to the closed position when the toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device, and (d) a retracted position retracted from the engaging position; The engaging portion is configured to move from the retracted position to the engaging position in accordance with the rotational movement.

[0011] The fourth invention is A toner cartridge that is removable from a receiving device by a removal action that involves a rotational action, a container having a storage portion for storing toner and an opening for discharging the toner from the storage portion to the receiving device; an opening / closing member having a closing portion for closing the opening and an engaging portion movable relative to the closing portion, the opening / closing member being movable relative to the container between (a) an open position where the closing portion opens the opening, and (b) a closed position where the closing portion closes the opening, the engaging portion is movable relative to the closing portion between (c) an engaging position for engaging with the receiving device so as to receive a force for moving the opening / closing member from the open position to the closed position when the toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device, and (d) a retracted position retracted from the engaging position; The engaging portion is configured to move from the engaging position to the retracted position in accordance with the rotational movement.

[0012] The fifth invention is A toner cartridge that is detachable from a receiving device, a container having a storage portion for storing toner and an outlet for discharging the toner from the storage portion to the receiving device; an open / close member having a closing portion for closing the discharge outlet and an engaging portion movable relative to the closing portion, and capable of moving relative to the container between (a) an open position where the closing portion opens the discharge outlet and (b) a closed position where the closing portion closes the discharge outlet, the engaging portion being movable relative to the closing portion between (c) an engaging position where the engaging portion engages with the receiving device to receive a force for moving the open / close member from the open position to the closed position when the toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device, and (d) a retracted position retracted from the engaging position; a retracted position movement unit provided on the container that moves the engagement unit from the engagement position to the retracted position as the opening / closing member moves from the open position to the closed position; The present invention is characterized by having the following.

[0013] The sixth invention is In a toner cartridge for electrophotographic image formation, a container having a storage portion for storing toner and an outlet for discharging the toner from the storage portion; an opening / closing member having a closing portion for closing the discharge outlet and an engaging portion movable relative to the closing portion, the opening / closing member being rotatable relative to the container between an open position for causing the closing portion to open the discharge outlet and a closed position for causing the closing portion to close the discharge outlet; and The present invention is characterized in that the engaging portion is configured to move relative to the closing portion at least in the direction of the rotation axis of the opening / closing member as the opening / closing member rotates between the closed position and the open position.

[0014] The seventh invention is In a toner cartridge for electrophotographic image formation, a container having a storage portion for storing toner and an outlet for discharging the toner from the storage portion; an opening / closing member having a closing portion for closing the discharge outlet and an engaging portion movable relative to the closing portion, the opening / closing member being rotatable relative to the container between an open position for causing the closing portion to open the discharge outlet and a closed position for causing the closing portion to close the discharge outlet; and the engaging portion is exposed at least to the outside in the rotational radius direction of the opening / closing member, The device is characterized in that the engaging portion is configured to move relative to the closing portion at least in the direction of the radius of rotation of the opening / closing member as the opening / closing member rotates between the closed position and the open position.

[0015] The eighth invention is In a toner cartridge for electrophotographic image formation, a container having a storage portion for storing toner and an outlet for discharging the toner from the storage portion; an opening / closing member having a closing portion for closing the discharge outlet and an engaging portion movable relative to the closing portion, the opening / closing member being rotatable relative to the container between an open position for causing the closing portion to open the discharge outlet and a closed position for causing the closing portion to close the discharge outlet; and The engagement portion is a first protrusion protruding at least radially outward of the opening / closing member; a second protrusion provided on the first protrusion, protruding toward a downstream side in a direction in which the opening / closing member rotates from the closed position to the open position relative to the container; and The toner cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the engaging portion moves relative to the closing portion as the opening / closing member rotates between the closed position and the open position.

[0016] The ninth invention is In a toner cartridge for electrophotographic image formation, a container having a storage section for storing toner and an outlet for discharging the toner from the storage section; an opening / closing member having a closing portion for closing the discharge outlet and an engaging portion movable relative to the closing portion, the opening / closing member being movable relative to the container between an open position for causing the closing portion to open the discharge outlet and a closed position for causing the closing portion to close the discharge outlet; a moving portion provided on the container that moves the engaging portion as the opening / closing member moves from the open position to the closed position; The present invention is characterized by having the following.

[0017] The tenth invention is In a shutter used in a toner cartridge, a body portion having a substantially arcuate shape; a first arm portion provided at an end portion in a longitudinal direction of the main body portion, the first arm portion extending toward the end portion in a lateral direction of the main body portion; a first protrusion provided on a tip side of the first arm portion and protruding outward in a radial direction of the arc shape; and The first protrusion is movable relative to the main body at least in the longitudinal direction of the main body. [Effects of the Invention]

[0018] The above-mentioned prior art has been developed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a side view of the toner cartridge according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a general configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 3] 1 is a side cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a state in which a toner cartridge is attached to a development unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a developing unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a toner cartridge according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a developing unit and a toner cartridge before installation (insertion). [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a developing unit and a toner cartridge in the middle of being mounted (inserted). [Figure 8] 10 is a side view schematically illustrating a modified example of the configuration of the insertion guided portion. FIG. [Figure 9] 4 is a side view schematically illustrating the relationship of forces acting on the toner cartridge. FIG. [Figure 10] 10 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which an abutting portion and an abutted portion abut against each other. FIG. [Figure 11] 10 is a schematic diagram showing the state when the container frame is rotated and the toner cartridge is positioned. FIG. [Figure 12] 10 is a schematic diagram showing the state when each shutter is moved to an open position and each toner storage unit is connected to each other. FIG. [Figure 13] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a partial cross-sectional side view of the developing unit and the vicinity of the opening of the toner cartridge. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a developing unit and a toner cartridge. [Figure 16]FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the vicinity of an opening of the toner cartridge. [Figure 17] 5A and 5B are perspective views showing the shutter opening and closing operation of the toner cartridge. [Figure 18] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the vicinity of an opening of the developing unit. [Figure 19] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the shutter opening and closing operation of the developing unit. [Figure 20] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a toner cartridge and a developing unit. [Figure 21] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a toner cartridge and a developing unit. [Figure 22] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a developing unit and a toner cartridge. [Figure 23] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the shutter portion and its surroundings. [Figure 24] 20(a) is a cross-sectional view taken along line A1 in Fig. 16, (b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line A2 in Fig. 18, and (c) is a cross-sectional view taken along line A3 in Fig. 20(b). [Figure 25] FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the development unit and the toner cartridge. [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a schematic view of the communication portion when viewed from the first toner storage portion side. [Figure 27] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a developing unit and a toner cartridge. [Figure 28] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the opening operation of the first shutter of the developing unit and the second shutter of the toner cartridge. [Figure 29] 4A and 4B are diagrams for explaining a detailed configuration of a receiving portion of a toner cartridge of a developing unit and its vicinity; [Figure 30] 4A and 4B are diagrams for explaining a detailed configuration of a receiving portion of a toner cartridge of a developing unit and its vicinity; [Figure 31] 4A and 4B are diagrams for explaining a detailed configuration of a receiving portion of a toner cartridge of a developing unit and its vicinity; [Figure 32] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a toner cartridge. [Figure 33]FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a toner cartridge. [Figure 34] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a toner cartridge. [Figure 35] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a toner cartridge. [Figure 36] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a toner cartridge. [Figure 37] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the opening operation of the first shutter and the second shutter. [Figure 38] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the opening operation of the first shutter and the second shutter. [Figure 39] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the opening operation of the first shutter and the second shutter. [Figure 40] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the opening operation of the first shutter and the second shutter. [Figure 41] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the opening operation of the first shutter and the second shutter. [Figure 42] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the opening operation of the first shutter and the second shutter. [Figure 43] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the opening operation of the first shutter and the second shutter. [Figure 44] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the vicinity of the second opening and the third opening as viewed from the driving side. [Figure 45] 3A and 3B are diagrams illustrating a toner transport configuration from a toner cartridge to a developing unit. [Figure 46] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the closing operation of the first shutter and the second shutter. [Figure 47] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the closing operation of the first shutter and the second shutter. [Figure 48] 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the closing operation of the first shutter and the second shutter. [Figure 49] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a state before the toner cartridge is attached to the developing unit. [Figure 50]FIG. 2 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the vicinity of the insertion guided portion (drive) and the insertion guide portion (drive). [Figure 51] 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the shapes of an insertion guided portion (drive) and an insertion guide portion (drive). FIG. [Figure 52] 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the shapes of an insertion guided portion (drive) and an insertion guide portion (drive). FIG. [Figure 53] FIG. 10 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the vicinity of the insertion guided portion (non-insertion guide portion) and the insertion guide portion (non-insertion guide portion). [Figure 54] 10 is a diagram showing the relationship between an insertion guided portion (drive) and an insertion guided portion (non-drive). FIG. [Figure 55] 10 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between an insertion guided portion (drive) and an insertion guided portion (non-drive). FIG. [Figure 56] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the second shutter is in a closed position. [Figure 57] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the second shutter is in an open position. [Figure 58] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a second shutter. [Figure 59] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a second shutter. [Figure 60] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the second shutter is in a closed position. [Figure 61] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the second shutter is in a closed position. [Figure 62] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the second shutter is in an open position. [Figure 63] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the second shutter is in a closed position. [Figure 64] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of a toner cartridge. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] An image forming apparatus for forming an electrophotographic image, a toner image forming unit, and a toner cartridge will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the image forming apparatus is an apparatus that forms an image on a recording medium using, for example, an electrophotographic image forming process. Examples include electrophotographic copying machines, electrophotographic printers (e.g., LED printers, laser beam printers, etc.), electrophotographic facsimile machines, etc.

[0021] In the following examples, a monochrome image forming apparatus having one toner image forming unit is illustrated. However, the number of toner image forming units provided in the image forming apparatus is not limited to this. For example, the image forming apparatus may have multiple toner image forming units and form color images.

[0022] Similarly, unless otherwise specified, the materials, arrangement, dimensions, and other numerical values ​​of each configuration disclosed in the examples are not limited. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, "upper" refers to the direction of gravity when the image forming apparatus is installed.

[0023] Example 1 In this embodiment, a configuration that contributes to improved usability will be described in detail, specifically, the improvement of the operational feeling when the user mounts the toner cartridge into the developing unit (developing cartridge).

[0024] First, the overall configuration of the image forming apparatus will be described, followed by a detailed description of the developing unit and toner cartridge. Note that the operation of mounting the toner cartridge to the developing unit will be referred to as the mounting operation, and the operation of removing the toner cartridge will be referred to as the removing operation.

[0025] [Explanation of Electrophotographic Image Forming Apparatus] Fig. 2 is a side cross-sectional view showing the configuration of an image forming apparatus A according to this embodiment. The image forming apparatus A shown in Fig. 2 receives image information from an external device, such as a personal computer, connected for communication. Then, in accordance with the received image information, the image forming apparatus A forms an image (toner image) using a developer (toner) on a recording medium P (for example, recording paper, an OHP sheet, a cloth, etc.) by an electrophotographic image formation process.

[0026] Image forming apparatus A is configured such that toner image forming section (toner image forming unit) B is detachable from the apparatus main body. In this embodiment, toner image forming section (toner image forming unit) B has a drum unit (drum cartridge) C, a development unit (developing device, development cartridge) D, and a toner cartridge E. Toner cartridge E is detachable from development unit D. In other words, development unit D has an attachment section for attaching toner cartridge E, and serves as a receiving device (receiving device) that receives toner cartridge E.

[0027] Here, the toner image forming portion (toner image forming unit) can be considered as a unit including a photosensitive drum and elements that act on the photosensitive drum.

[0028] In this embodiment, the drum unit C, the developing unit D, and the toner cartridge E are each independently configured to be detachably attached to the main body of the apparatus. In this configuration, the drum unit C may be referred to as a drum cartridge, and the developing unit D may be referred to as a developing cartridge.

[0029] It is not necessary for the drum unit C, development unit D, and toner cartridge E to be individually packaged as cartridges. For example, the photosensitive drum (or the drum unit having the photosensitive drum) may be fixed to the main body of the device, and only the development unit (development cartridge) D and toner cartridge E may be configured to be detachable.

[0030] The drum unit C and the developing unit D may also be integrated into one cartridge that can be attached to and detached from the main body of the apparatus. A cartridge in which the drum unit C and the developing unit D are integrated may be specifically called a process cartridge. In this configuration, the toner cartridge E is attached to and detached from the process cartridge. In this case, the process cartridge can be considered as a receiving device. An image forming apparatus that employs a process cartridge configuration will be described later in Example 4.

[0031] Alternatively, the photosensitive drum and the developing unit may be fixed to the main body of the image forming apparatus, and only the toner cartridge E may be detachably attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus. In this case, the main body of the image forming apparatus itself can be regarded as a receiving device for the toner cartridge E.

[0032] The component combining the receiving device (developing unit D) and the toner cartridge E is sometimes called the toner supply mechanism (toner supply unit, toner supply device). In the toner supply mechanism, toner is supplied (replenished) from the toner cartridge E to the receiving device.

[0033] In this embodiment, the photosensitive drum as an image carrier refers to a structure in which a flange and the like are integrated with a cylinder having a photosensitive layer.

[0034] The installation and removal of each cartridge is performed by the user (operator). The device main body (image forming device main body) refers to the components of image forming device A excluding each cartridge (drum unit C, developing unit D, toner cartridge E).

[0035] The drum unit C is a unit in which a photosensitive drum (image carrier) 16, a charging roller 17, a cleaning blade 19, etc. are integrated, and in this embodiment, it is a cartridge (drum cartridge) that is detachable from the main body of the apparatus. The development unit D is a unit in which a development roller (developer carrier) 24, etc. are integrated, and in this embodiment, it is a cartridge (developing cartridge) that is detachable from the main body of the apparatus. The toner cartridge E as a developer container is a cartridge in which a toner storage container (developer storage container, container) 47 that stores toner t as developer, etc. are integrated.

[0036] The photosensitive drum 16 rotates in the direction of arrow a shown in FIG. 2. The surface of the rotating photosensitive drum 16 is uniformly charged by a charging roller 17 serving as a charging means. A laser scanner (exposure means) 1 irradiates the photosensitive drum 16 with laser light L corresponding to image information, thereby forming an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image information on the photosensitive drum 16. Then, toner t carried and transported by the developing roller 24 develops the electrostatic latent image. As a result, a toner image is formed on the photosensitive drum 16.

[0037] 3, the developing process in the toner image forming section B will be described. A frame 35 of the developing unit D as a receiving device rotatably supports the developing roller 24. The developing roller 24 receives a driving force from a power source such as a motor (not shown) provided in the main body of the device, and is driven to rotate in the forward direction (the direction of arrow b in the figure) relative to the photosensitive drum 16.

[0038] The toner t in the developing chamber 31 is carried on the peripheral surface of the developing roller 24 with its layer thickness regulated by the developing blade 25. When the layer thickness is regulated, the toner is charged by frictional charging. The charged toner then forms an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 16.

[0039] In the developing unit D, the developing chamber 31 communicates with a first toner storage section (developer storage section) 28 via a first opening 29. A first toner transport means 27, which is rotationally driven by a driving source (not shown), supplies the toner t from the first toner storage section 28 to the developing chamber 31.

[0040] Further, a communication portion 58 is formed by the second opening (accommodation body opening / receiving port, receiving opening) 30 and the third opening (container opening / discharge port, discharge opening) 49. Through this communication portion 58, the first toner accommodation portion (accommodation body chamber) 28 communicates with the second toner accommodation portion (container chamber) 47t of the toner cartridge E.

[0041] The second toner storage portion 47t is a space provided inside the container 47 for storing toner. The second toner storage portion 47t is a storage portion (toner storage portion, developer storage portion) formed by the frame of the container 47 (container frame 47a).

[0042] The third opening 49 is formed in the container frame 47a and is a discharge port for discharging the toner from the second toner accommodating portion 47t to the outside of the toner container 47 (i.e., the developing unit D). The toner discharged from the third opening 49 is received by the second opening 30 of the developing unit D.

[0043] The first toner container 28 receives the toner t from the second toner container 47t by the second toner transport member 46 that rotates due to a driving force input from the main body of the apparatus via the developing unit D.

[0044] 2, the recording media P set in the feeding cassette 2 are separated and fed one by one by a pickup roller 3 and a pressure member 5 that presses against the pickup roller 3. Then, in synchronization with the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum, the recording media P are conveyed along a conveyance guide 4 to a transfer roller 6 as a transfer means.

[0045] Next, the recording medium P passes through a transfer nip portion 11 formed by the photosensitive drum 16 and the transfer roller 6 to which a constant voltage is applied. At this time, the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 16 is transferred to the recording medium P. The recording medium P to which the toner image has been transferred is transported to fixing means 8 by a transport guide 7.

[0046] This fixing means 8 includes a drive roller 8a and a fixing roller 8c incorporating a heater 8b. The recording medium P is subjected to heat and pressure as it passes through a nip portion 8d formed by the fixing roller 8c and the drive roller 8a. This causes the toner image transferred onto the recording medium P to be fixed to the recording medium P. The recording medium P with the fixed toner image is then transported by a pair of discharge rollers 9 and discharged onto a discharge tray 10.

[0047] The cleaning blade 19 is provided so as to elastically contact the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 16. As a result, the toner t (transfer residual toner) remaining on the photosensitive drum 16 that has not been transferred to the recording medium P is scraped off by the cleaning blade 19. This scraped off toner t is stored in a removed toner storage section (waste toner storage section) 18a of the frame 18 to which the cleaning blade 19 is fixed.

[0048] As described above, the image forming apparatus of this embodiment has been described as being configured to form an image on a recording medium (recording material) using a developer (toner) by an electrophotographic image forming method. Naturally, the image forming apparatus may be configured to form an image on a recording medium, and there is no intention to limit the form to an electrophotographic copying machine, electrophotographic printer (laser beam printer, LED printer, etc.), electrophotographic facsimile machine, electrophotographic word processor, etc.

[0049] As described above, the toner image forming unit B has an electrophotographic photosensitive member (photosensitive member) that is an image carrier, and a process means that acts on the photosensitive member. In this embodiment, the toner image forming unit is configured as one or more cartridges that are detachably mountable to the main body of the image forming apparatus.

[0050] The process means includes a charging means (charging member, charging device), a developing means (developing device, developing unit), a cleaning means (cleaning device, cleaning member), and the like.

[0051] A developing device is a device used to develop an electrostatic latent image on a photosensitive member. In this embodiment, the developing device (developing unit) is made into a cartridge and can be attached to and detached from the image forming apparatus as a single unit. Alternatively, the developing device may constitute a part of a process cartridge.

[0052] Also, a toner cartridge (developer cartridge, toner bottle, developer bottle, toner container, developer container) is a cartridge that contains developer (toner) used to develop an electrostatic latent image formed on a photosensitive element.

[0053] [About the composition of each cartridge (each unit)] Next, the detailed configuration of each cartridge (each unit) detachably provided in the image forming apparatus will be described.

[0054] ■(Detailed explanation of the area around the toner cartridge receiving section of the development unit) Using Figure 4, a detailed configuration of the vicinity of the receiving portion of the toner cartridge E of the developing unit (developing cartridge) D according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 4 is a perspective view of the vicinity of the receiving portion (mounting portion) of the toner cartridge E of the developing unit D. Figure 4(a) is a diagram illustrating a state in which the second opening 30 is closed (the first shutter 37 is in the closed position). Figure 4(b) is a diagram illustrating a state in which the second opening 30 is open (the first shutter 37 is in the open position). In this embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the developing unit D refers to a direction parallel to the direction of the rotation axis of the developing roller 24 provided in the developing unit D. Note that when the toner cartridge E is mounted in the developing unit, the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E is substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the developing unit D.

[0055] The developing unit D is configured so that the toner cartridge E can be attached (detached) to a receiving portion of its frame (developing frame) 35. Near the receiving portion, the developing unit D has a second opening (accommodating body opening, receiving port) 30 and a first shutter (accommodating body shutter, receiving device side shutter, receiving device side open / close member) 37. In this embodiment, the second opening 30 is provided in the longitudinal center of the developing unit D. However, the position of the second opening 30 is not limited to the longitudinal center, as long as it is located opposite a third opening (container opening) 49 described below.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 4( a ), the second opening 30 is sealed by a first shutter 37 having a shape with a curvature that conforms to the outer circumferential surface of the toner cartridge E.

[0057] The first shutter 37 has a hole 37a that engages with a convex portion (container-side engaging portion, open / close member moving portion, container-side protrusion) 45 provided on the toner cartridge E serving as a developer container. The hole 37a is provided outside the sealing range in which the first shutter 37 seals the second opening 30.

[0058] Furthermore, both longitudinal ends of the first shutter 37 engage with first shutter guide portions 34 provided on both longitudinal sides of the second opening 30 in the frame 35 of the developing unit D. This allows the first shutter to slide (move) freely along the first shutter guide portions 34.

[0059] As a result, the first shutter 37 is configured to be movable between a closed position (receiving port closed position, Figure 4(a)) in which it blocks the second opening 30 and an open position (receiving port open position, Figure 4b) in which it opens the second opening 30.

[0060] A first sealing seal 32 for sealing the gap between the first shutter 37 and the second opening 30 is attached to the frame 35 of the developing unit D so as to surround the periphery of the second opening 30 .

[0061] The developing unit D is provided with insertion guide portions 35d and 36d at both longitudinal ends of the frame 35, which guide the toner cartridge E while maintaining its orientation (mounting orientation) when the toner cartridge E is mounted (inserted).

[0062] The developing unit D also has abutted portions 35a and 36a against which abutting portions 42a and 43a of the toner cartridge E abut when the toner cartridge E is inserted, as will be described later.

[0063] Furthermore, the developing unit D has rotation guide portions 35b and 36b at both ends of the frame 35 in the longitudinal direction, which guide the rotation of the toner cartridge E when the first shutter 37 and the second shutter (container shutter) 53 are opened and closed.

[0064] The insertion guide portions 35d and 36d are formed linearly and parallel to each other along the insertion direction f (FIG. 4(a)) of the toner cartridge E. If the insertion direction of the toner cartridge E is considered to be the mounting direction, then the downstream side of the mounting direction can be considered to be the mounting direction, and the upstream side of the mounting direction can be considered to be the removal direction.

[0065] On the non-drive side, the developing unit D has an abutted portion 35a and a rotation guide portion 35b provided downstream of the insertion guide portion 35d in the insertion direction f, and on the drive side, the abutted portion 36a and a rotation guide 36b provided downstream of the insertion guide portion 36d in the insertion direction f.

[0066] At both ends of the developing unit D in the longitudinal direction, the side where a drive part such as a gear (e.g., first drive transmission part 38) is arranged will be referred to as the drive side. The non-drive side of the developing unit will be used to mean the side opposite the drive side.

[0067] Furthermore, the developing unit D is provided with a first drive transmission section 38 at one end in the longitudinal direction of the frame 35 for transmitting drive to a second toner transport means 46 of a toner cartridge E, which will be described later.

[0068] The first drive transmission part 38 is a gear, and is connected to the drive mechanism of the image forming apparatus main body inside the development unit D. The first drive transmission part 38 is a rotational force receiving part (driving force receiving part) that receives a rotational force for driving the second toner conveying member 46 from the outside of the toner cartridge E.

[0069] The developing unit D also has holes 33 formed on the outer sides of both longitudinal ends of the second opening 30 in the frame 35. The holes 33 engage with claws 53b formed on a second shutter 53 of the toner cartridge E, which will be described later.

[0070] The claw portion 53b is an engaging portion (opening / closing member side engaging portion) provided at the tip of the arm portion 53a. This prevents the second shutter 53 from rotating together with the container frame 47a (described later) when the third opening 49 is opened or closed.

[0071] ■(Detailed description of toner cartridge) The detailed structure of the toner cartridge E according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0072] Fig. 5(a) is a perspective view of the toner cartridge E when viewed from the second drive transmission unit 48 side (drive side), and Fig. 5(b) is a perspective view of the toner cartridge E when viewed from the opposite side (non-drive side) from the second drive transmission unit 48 side.

[0073] Fig. 5(c) is a cross-sectional view of the toner cartridge E as viewed from the opposite side to the second drive transmission unit 48. Fig. 5(d) is a perspective view of the toner cartridge E when the second shutter 53 is in the open position (a state in which the third opening 49 is open).

[0074] The toner cartridge E includes a container 47, a second shutter (developer container shutter) 53 movable relative to the container 47, a second toner transport member 46 provided inside the container 47, a second drive transmission part (gear) 48 attached to the second toner transport member 46, and the like.

[0075] Container 47 has a substantially cylindrical shape. That is, a frame (container frame) 47a constituting the main body (main part) of container 47 has a substantially cylindrical shape. Container 47 also has a gripping member 44. Grip member 44 is a U-shaped protrusion formed integrally with frame 47a. Note that the shape of gripping member 44 is not limited to a U-shape, and gripping member 44 may be formed as a separate member from frame 47a and attached to frame 47a.

[0076] The container frame (cylindrical portion) 47a is hollow and defines a second toner accommodating portion 47t therein for accommodating toner. The container frame 47a also defines a third opening 49 on its circumferential surface for discharging the toner from the second toner accommodating portion 47t.

[0077] A second sealing seal 54 that seals the gap between the container frame 47a and the second shutter 53 is attached to the container frame 47a so as to surround the third opening 49.

[0078] The container frame 47a has two protrusions 45 on the outer periphery of its cylindrical shape that are capable of engaging with the holes 37a of the first shutter 37. The two protrusions 45 are protrusions that protrude in approximately the same direction. The line connecting the two protrusions 45 is substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E.

[0079] In the longitudinal direction of the container 47, the two protrusions 45 are disposed outside the third opening 49. More specifically, when the two protrusions 45 and the third opening 49 are projected onto an imaginary line parallel to the rotation axis of the second shutter 53, the entire third opening 49 is located within the area sandwiched between the two protrusions.

[0080] A second toner transport member 46 for transporting toner is rotatably provided inside the second toner accommodating portion 47t of the container frame 47a. The position where the protrusions, holes, etc. engage with each other is called the engagement position, and the position where the engagement is released is called the non-engagement position (disengagement position).

[0081] A second drive transmission unit (gear) 48 is provided at one end of the second toner transport member 46 in the longitudinal direction (rotational axis direction) to receive power for rotationally driving the second toner transport member 46. Here, the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E refers to the direction parallel to the rotational axis direction of the second toner transport member 46.

[0082] In this embodiment, the third opening 49 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the container frame 47a at the center in the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E. The position of the third opening 49 is not limited to a specific position as long as it is a position facing the second opening 30.

[0083] The second shutter 53 has a shape with a curvature that conforms to the outer circumferential surface of the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E. The cross section of the second shutter 53 (a cross section perpendicular to the central axis of the container frame 47a) has a curved shape (approximately arc shape) that conforms to the outer periphery of the container frame 47a.

[0084] The surface of the container frame 47a is curved (substantially cylindrical or arc-shaped) at least around the third opening 49. The second shutter 53 can rotate (revolve) around the container frame 47a along the curved surface (arc portion) around the third opening 49. This allows the second shutter 53 to open and close the third opening 49.

[0085] The second shutter 53 has a shutter main body 53m (main body, closing portion) for closing the third opening 49. The second shutter 53 is provided with two snap fits each having an arm portion 53a and a claw portion 53b.

[0086] That is, the second shutter 53 has two arms 53a provided at both ends of the shutter main body 53m in the longitudinal direction, and two claws 53b provided at the tip of each arm 53a. The longitudinal direction of the shutter main body 53m is substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E.

[0087] The claw portion 53b is an engaged portion (shutter-side engaging portion, opening member-side engaging portion) for engaging with the developing unit D. The claw portion 53b is exposed (facing the outer diameter side) at least on the outer diameter side (outside) of the cylindrical container 47 (container frame 47a). More specifically, the claw portion 53b is a protrusion (convex portion, protruding portion) that protrudes at least on the outer diameter side (outside) of the container 47 (container frame 47a).

[0088] The arm portion 53a is a support portion that supports the claw portion 53b and a connecting portion that connects the claw portion 53b to the shutter main body portion 53m. The arm portion 53a also has an elastic portion (deformable portion, movable portion) that is elastically deformable. In other words, the arm portion 53a itself is elastically deformable.

[0089] The arm portion 53a extends from the rear end side toward the tip side of the second shutter 53. The tip side of the second shutter 53 means the downstream side in the direction in which the second shutter 53 moves relative to the container frame 47a when closing the third opening 49. The tip of the second shutter 53 refers to the end of the second shutter 53 in the short side direction (the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the second shutter 53).

[0090] A part of the arm portion 53a is elastically deformed, so that the claw portion 53b can move relative to the shutter main body portion 53m.

[0091] Both longitudinal ends of the second shutter 53 (shutter main body 53m) engage with second shutter guide portions (opening / closing guides) 52 provided on both longitudinal sides of the third opening 49 in the container frame 47a. The second shutter is assembled to be slidable in the circumferential direction on the outer peripheral surface of the container frame 47a along the second shutter guide portions 52. This allows the second shutter 53 to move along the outer peripheral surface of the toner cartridge E between an open position (container open position, FIG. 5(d)) where the second shutter 53 opens the third opening 49 and a closed position (container closed position, FIG. 5(b)) where the second shutter 53 closes the third opening 49.

[0092] When the second shutter 53 is in the open position, it is desirable that the third opening 49 is completely opened from the shutter main body 53m (closing portion) as shown in Figure 5(d). However, if toner can be discharged from the third opening 49 when the second shutter 53 is in the open position, it is also possible to adopt a configuration in which part of the third opening 49 is covered by the shutter main body 53m (closing portion). In other words, it is sufficient that when the second shutter 53 is in the open position, the shutter main body 53m at least partially opens the third opening 49 so that toner can be supplied from the toner cartridge E to the development unit D.

[0093] Furthermore, when the second shutter 53 is in the closed position, it is desirable that the entire third opening 49 be covered by the shutter main body 53m as shown in Fig. 5(b). However, even if the third opening 49 is slightly open, such a configuration is also possible as long as the third opening 49 is substantially closed by the shutter main body 53m and toner leakage from the third opening 49 is sufficiently suppressed. In other words, it is sufficient that the shutter main body 53m substantially closes the third opening 49 when the second shutter 53 is in the closed position.

[0094] The toner cartridge E is provided with insertion guided portions (guided portions, toner cartridge side guide portions) 42, 43 at both longitudinal ends of the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E. The insertion guided portions (guided portions) 42, 43 are guided by the insertion guide portions 35d, 36d of the development unit D, thereby stabilizing the posture of the toner cartridge E when it is attached or detached.

[0095] The toner cartridge E has an abutting portion 42a. This abutting portion 42a abuts against the abutted portion 35a of the developing unit D when the toner cartridge E is inserted into the developing unit D. The toner cartridge E also includes a rotationally guided portion 42b. This rotationally guided portion 42b guides the container frame 47a when the toner cartridge E is rotated to open and close the first shutter 37 and the second shutter 53. The rotationally guided portion 42b allows the container 47 to rotate smoothly. The rotationally guided portion 42b is a rotation guide (toner cartridge side rotation guide) that guides the rotation of the toner cartridge E. The rotationally guided portion 42b has a curved shape (approximately an arc shape).

[0096] In addition, insertion guide portion 42 is provided with regulated portions (regulated surfaces, posture regulating portions, insertion direction regulating portions) 42c1, 42c2 for regulating the insertion posture and extraction posture (insertion direction, extraction direction) of toner cartridge E during insertion. As will be described later, insertion guide portion 42 may have its outer shape modified by hollowing out a portion of its outer shape.

[0097] The insertion guided portion 43 has an abutting portion 43a that abuts against the abutted portion 36a of the development unit D when the toner cartridge E is inserted. The insertion guided portion 43 is configured to also serve as a rotation guided portion (toner cartridge side rotation guide portion) that guides the container frame 47a when the abutting portion 43a opens and closes the first shutter 37 and the second shutter 53.

[0098] In this embodiment, on the non-drive side, the abutment portion 42a, the rotation-guided portion 42b, the restricting portion 42c1, and the restricting portion 42c2 are integrally formed with the insertion-guided portion 42b. However, they may be provided as separate members as long as they fulfill their respective functions.

[0099] Similarly, on the drive side, the insertion guided portion 43b and the abutting portion 43a may be formed of separate members. Furthermore, the rotation guided portion may be provided as a separate member from the abutting portion 43a. In this manner, portions of the toner cartridge E and the developing unit D that do not abut against each other (non-functional portions, non-contact portions) may be omitted as appropriate, taking into consideration strength, etc.

[0100] In this embodiment, the insertion guided portion 43 is provided at the end of the second drive transmission portion 48 at the longitudinal end of the second toner transport portion 46. However, the insertion guided portion 43 may be provided on the container frame 47a. The container frame 47a is also provided with gripping members 44 as handles that the user can grasp when installing the toner cartridge E. The gripping members 44 are fixed to both longitudinal end portions of the container frame 47a. The gripping members 44 may be integrally molded with the container frame 47a.

[0101] Here, the arrangement of the gripping member 44 in the container frame 47a will be described with reference to Fig. 1(a). Fig. 1(a) is a side view of the toner cartridge E, looking at the side opposite the second drive transmission unit 48 in the longitudinal direction of the second toner transport unit 46. This figure shows the positional relationship between the gripping member 44 and the abutment unit 42 with respect to the insertion direction.

[0102] As shown in Figure 1(a), a straight line m is a line parallel to the insertion direction f of the toner cartridge E regulated by the regulating portion 42c1 and the regulating portion 42c2 and passing through the abutment portion 42a and the abutment portion 43a (a virtual line passing through the rotation center S of the container frame body 47a).

[0103] The gripping member 44 is disposed downstream of the straight line m in the opening direction (the direction of the arrow e in FIG. 1(a)) of the third opening 49 (see FIG. 5(d)). The opening direction of the third opening 49 (the direction of the arrow e) is the direction in which the toner cartridge E is rotated to set the toner cartridge E in the developing unit D (the setting direction).

[0104] [Installing the toner cartridge into the development unit] Next, we will explain the process of installing the toner cartridge E into the development unit D. Specifically, when the toner cartridge E is inserted into the development unit D and the toner cartridge E is rotated, the second opening 30 and the third opening 49 are opened and closed.

[0105] ■ (Inserting the toner cartridge into the development unit) The operation of inserting the toner cartridge E into the development unit D will be described with reference to FIGS. 1, 6(a), 6(b), and 7. FIG.

[0106] FIG. 1B is a side view of the toner cartridge E and the developing unit D, showing the positional relationship between the gripping member 44 and the abutting portion 43a with respect to the mounting direction of the toner cartridge E. FIG.

[0107] 6A and 6B are schematic diagrams showing the toner cartridge E and the developing unit D before the toner cartridge E is attached (inserted), with FIG. 6A being a perspective view and FIG. 6B being a side view.

[0108] FIG. 7 is a side view showing the toner cartridge E and the developing unit D in a state where the toner cartridge E is being mounted (inserted).

[0109] Before the toner cartridge E is installed in the developing unit D, the first shutter 37 is in the container closed position and the second shutter 53 is in the container closed position, so that the second opening 30 of the developing unit D and the third opening 49 of the toner cartridge E are both closed.

[0110] The insertion direction of the toner cartridge E into the development unit D is direction f in Figure 6(b). Direction f is the direction along the surface of the regulating portion 42c when the toner cartridge E is viewed from the longitudinal side of the toner cartridge E. More specifically, among the directions along the surface of the regulating portion 42c, the direction in which the abutting portion 42a is downstream of the insertion guided portion 42 can be said to be direction f.

[0111] 6(a), the user grips the grip member 44 and moves the toner cartridge E in the insertion direction f relative to the developing unit D. At this time, the user moves the toner cartridge E so that the insertion guided portion 42 of the toner cartridge E engages with the insertion guide portion 35d of the developing unit D, and the insertion guided portion 43 engages with the insertion guide portion 36d, respectively.

[0112] In this embodiment, the insertion guided portions 42 and 43 and the insertion guide portions 35d and 36d are configured so that the insertion direction f is oblique to the gravity direction g (FIG. 6(b)).

[0113] In other words, the toner cartridge E is inserted with the surface of the regulated portion 42c1 of the insertion guided portion 42 aligned with the surface 35d1 of the insertion guide portion 35d in the direction of gravity g. Similarly, the toner cartridge E is inserted with the surface of the regulated portion 42c2 of the insertion guided portion 42 aligned with the surface 35d2 of the insertion guide portion 35d.

[0114] Then, the surface of the restricting portion 42c1 on the lower side in the direction of gravity g is placed on the surface 35d1 of the insertion guide portion 35d, thereby positioning the insertion guided portion 42 with respect to the rotation guide portion 35b. This determines the orientation of the toner cartridge E with respect to the development unit D (FIG. 7).

[0115] While maintaining this posture, the user further moves the toner cartridge E downward in the direction of gravity g along the insertion guide portions 35d and 36d. This causes the toner cartridge E to be inserted into the development unit D in the direction of arrow f. As the toner cartridge E is further moved in the direction of arrow f, the abutting portion 42a abuts against the abutted portion 35a. Also, the abutting portion 43a abuts against the abutted portion 36a. This completes the insertion of the toner cartridge E (the state shown in FIGS. 1(a) and 1(b)).

[0116] ■ (Modifications of the insertion guided portion) Here, modified examples of the configuration of the insertion guided portion 42 will be described with reference to Figures 8(a), 8(b), 8(c), and 8(d). Figures 8(a) to 8(d) are side views showing various configuration examples of the insertion guided portion 42, the abutting portion 42a, and the regulating portion 42c of the toner cartridge E, respectively. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 8(a), the insertion guided portion 42 of the toner cartridge E is configured with a single protrusion having an oval shape. However, other shapes and configurations may be adopted, such as those shown in Figures 8(b) to 8(d), as long as they can perform the same function. However, it is not intended that the shape, number, and arrangement of the protrusions be limited to the configurations shown in the figures.

[0117] That is, as shown in FIG. 8(b), a configuration combining an oval protrusion and a cylindrical protrusion is also possible. In this configuration, surface 42d of the oval protrusion mates with (comes into contact with) surface 35d1 of insertion guide portion 35d, and surface 42c2 of the cylindrical protrusion mates with (comes into contact with) surface 35d2 of insertion guide portion 35d. This restricts the orientation of toner cartridge E during insertion. Furthermore, insertion of toner cartridge E is completed when abutting portion 42a of the oval protrusion abuts against abutted portion 35a.

[0118] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 8(c) and 8(d), the insertion guided portion may be configured by combining multiple cylindrical protrusions. Naturally, the shape of the protrusions does not have to be cylindrical, and may be a triangular prism. In other words, the shape of the insertion guided portion is not important as long as it is arranged along the insertion direction f of the toner cartridge E and can regulate the insertion posture of the toner cartridge E. Similarly, it does not matter whether there is multiple insertion guided portions or a single portion.

[0119] In the configuration shown in FIG. 8(c), the cylindrical protrusions 42e and 42f aligned along the insertion direction f mate with the surface 35d1 of the insertion guide portion 35d. Furthermore, the surface 42c2 of the cylindrical protrusion 42 mates with the surface 35d2 of the insertion guide portion 35d. This regulates the orientation of the toner cartridge E. Similarly, the cylindrical protrusion 42f located downstream in the insertion direction f has an abutting portion 42a, which abuts against the abutted portion 35a. This completes the insertion of the toner cartridge E into the development unit D.

[0120] 8(d), the cylindrical protrusions 42e and 42f aligned along the insertion direction f each mate with the surface 35d1 of the insertion guide portion 35d. The cylindrical protrusions 42e and 42f also mate with the surface 35d2 of the insertion guide portion 35d. This regulates the orientation of the toner cartridge E. The cylindrical protrusion 42f located downstream in the insertion direction f has an abutting portion 42a, and when it abuts against the abutted portion 35a, the insertion of the toner cartridge E into the development unit D is completed.

[0121] In this way, when there are multiple protrusions provided on the longitudinal end of the toner cartridge E, it is only necessary to pay attention to the portion that comes into contact with the developing unit D.

[0122] ■ (Positioning of the toner cartridge relative to the development unit) The positioning of the toner cartridge E relative to the development unit D will be described with reference to FIGS. 10(a), 10(b), 11(a), 11(b), and 11(c).

[0123] Figure 10(a) is a side view of the insertion guided portion 42 of the toner cartridge E and the frame 35 of the developing unit D in a state where the abutting portion 42a and the abutted portion 35a are in abutment with each other. Figure 10(b) is a cross-sectional view of the toner cartridge E and the developing unit D in a state where the abutting portion 42a and the abutted portion 35a are in abutment with each other.

[0124] Figure 11(a) is a side view of the insertion guided portion 42 of the toner cartridge E and the frame 35 of the developing unit D when the toner cartridge E is positioned relative to the developing unit D. Figure 11(b) is a cross-sectional view showing the engagement relationship between the positioned toner cartridge E and the developing unit D. More specifically, Figure 11(b) is a cross-sectional view of the toner cartridge E and the developing unit D cut at the position of the second shutter 53.

[0125] Figure 11(c) is a cross-sectional view showing another engagement state of the positioned toner cartridge E and the developing unit D. More specifically, Figure 11(c) is a cross-sectional view of the toner cartridge E and the developing unit D cut at the position of the claw portion 53b.

[0126] 10, when the container frame 47a is rotated counterclockwise (in the direction of the arrow e in the figure), the abutting portion 42a and the rotation guide 42b engage with the rotation guide 35b, as shown in FIG. 11(a), thereby positioning the toner cartridge E relative to the development unit D.

[0127] [Shutter opening and closing operation] The opening and closing operations of the developing unit shutter and the toner cartridge shutter will be described in detail below.

[0128] In this embodiment, the first shutter 37 on the developing unit side and the second shutter 53 on the toner cartridge side are opened (moved to the open position) during the process of installing the toner cartridge E in the developing unit D. Conversely, the first shutter 37 and the second shutter 53 are closed (moved to the closed position) during the process of removing the toner cartridge E from the developing unit D.

[0129] The toner cartridge E is mounted to the developing unit D by a mounting operation that involves at least a rotational movement. More specifically, the toner cartridge E is inserted linearly and approximately linearly into the developing unit D, and then rotated and mounted relative to the developing unit D. In conjunction with the rotational movement when the toner cartridge E is mounted, the shutters 37, 53 move from the closed position to the open position.

[0130] Similarly, the toner cartridge E is removed from the developing unit D by a removal operation that involves at least a rotational movement. More specifically, the toner cartridge E is rotated relative to the developing unit D, and then pulled out and removed from the developing unit D in a substantially linear manner.

[0131] The shutters 37 and 53 move to the open position in accordance with the rotational movement when the toner cartridge E is removed.

[0132] ■ (Shutter opening operation) 1(a), 11(a), 11(b), 11(c), 12(a), and 12(b), the opening operation of the first shutter 37 of the developing unit D and the second shutter 53 of the toner cartridge E will be described. FIG. 12(a) is a side view of the insertion guided portion 42 of the toner cartridge E and the frame 35 of the developing unit D in a state in which the second opening 30 and the third opening 49 are open. FIG. 12(b) is a cross-sectional view of the toner cartridge E and the developing unit D in a state in which the second opening 30 and the third opening 49 are open.

[0133] In this embodiment, when the toner cartridge E is positioned relative to the development unit D (mounted state), the second opening 30 and the third opening 49 can take different relative positions. In other words, when the toner cartridge E is mounted on the development unit D, the toner cartridge E is configured to be able to take at least two positions (two states) by rotating.

[0134] The first position is a non-communication position in which the second opening 30 and the third opening 49 do not overlap, and the first toner storage section 28 and the second toner storage section 47t are not in communication with each other. In this state, the first shutter 37 is in a closed position in which it closes the second opening 30.

[0135] The second position is a communication position where the second opening 30 and the third opening 49 overlap, and the first toner storage section 28 and the second toner storage section 47t are in a communication state. In this state, the first shutter 37 is in an open position where it opens the second opening 30.

[0136] That is, the first shutter 37 is an opening / closing member that opens and closes the second opening 30. The third opening 49 is an opening formed in a curved surface portion that is substantially arc-shaped, and the first shutter 37 moves (rotates) along the curved surface portion to open and close the third opening 49.

[0137] As shown in FIG. 1(a), when the toner cartridge E is inserted into a predetermined position in the developing unit D, the protrusion 45 of the container frame 47a engages with the hole 37a of the first shutter 37. At this time, the leading end surface 53c of the second shutter 53 (see FIG. 5(d)) and the collision surface (contact surface) 39 (see FIG. 4(b)) of the developing unit D face each other. In other words, the insertion guided portion 42 is guided by the insertion guide portion 35d, and the insertion posture of the toner cartridge E is regulated so that the protrusion 45 can be inserted into the hole 37a. Similarly, the insertion posture of the toner cartridge E is regulated so that the leading end surface 53c faces the collision surface 39.

[0138] From the mounted position shown in Fig. 1(a), the user rotates the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E in the direction of arrow e by operating the gripping member 44. This causes the engagement between the insertion guided portion 42 and the frame 35 to change from the state shown in Fig. 11(a) to the state shown in Fig. 12(a). At this time, the rotation axis of the toner cartridge E (container frame 47a) is substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E.

[0139] During the rotation of the container frame 47a, as shown in Figure 11(b), the tip surface 53c (see Figure 5(d)) of the second shutter 53 abuts against the collision surface 39 (see Figure 4(b)) of the developing unit D. This restricts the second shutter 53 from rotating integrally with the toner cartridge E.

[0140] That is, the movement of the tip surface 53c of the second shutter 53 is restricted by the collision surface 39, so that only the container frame 47a rotates. From this state, the container frame 47a is further rotated in the direction (the direction of arrow e in FIG. 11(b)) in which the toner cartridge E is attached to the developing unit D. Then, the container frame 47a moves in the direction (opening direction) in which the third opening 49 for supplying toner to the developing unit is opened.

[0141] In other words, the second shutter moves relative to the container frame 47a in the direction to open the third opening 49. More specifically, the tip surface 53c of the second shutter receives a force (reaction force) from the collision surface 39, causing the second shutter 53 to rotate (revolve) along the outer periphery of the container frame 47a in the direction to open the third opening 49.

[0142] 1(a) and 11(c), container frame 47a has a surface (inclined surface) 47b formed so as to increase in height toward arm portion 53a in a region of its outer peripheral surface facing arm portion 53a. In other words, container frame 47a has a peripheral surface that protrudes outward and a peripheral surface that is recessed inward. The boundary between the peripheral surface that protrudes outward and the peripheral surface that is recessed inward forms surface 47b.

[0143] When the second shutter 53 moves relative to the container frame 47a (surface 47b), the peripheral surface protruding toward the outer diameter side of the container frame 47a abuts against the arm portion 53a provided on the second shutter, guiding the arm 53a toward the outer diameter side.

[0144] The outer diameter side of the container frame 47a is the outer side in the direction of the radius of rotation when the second shutter 53 rotates relative to the container frame 47a. The outer diameter side of the container frame 47a is the side facing outward (outside) from the container frame 47a, that is, the side away from the rotation axis (center axis) of the container frame 47a. The outer diameter side of the container frame 47a is the side away from the second toner conveying member 46 (or the rotation axis of the second toner conveying member 46) provided inside the container frame 47a.

[0145] In this embodiment, since the container frame 47a has a substantially cylindrical shape, the surface along which the arm 53a moves is expressed as a "circumferential surface protruding toward the outer diameter side." Naturally, any shape other than a "circumferential surface protruding toward the outer diameter side" may be used as long as it is capable of guiding the arm 53a, and there is no intention to specify the shape of the guide portion (guide portion) of the arm 53a.

[0146] When the container frame 47a rotates relative to the arm portion 53a of the second shutter 53, whose rotation is restricted, point Q on the surface 47b moves along surface 53d of the arm portion 53a. Point Q on the surface 47b then comes into contact with the rear surface 53e (contact portion) of the claw portion 53b. At this time, surface 53e of the arm portion 53a receives a force from point Q in the direction of arrow n, and the arm portion 53a is deformed so that the claw portion 53b is lifted by surface 47b.

[0147] As a result, the arm portion 53a transitions from a state in which it is retracted along a recess provided on the circumferential surface of the container frame 47a to a state in which it engages with the developing unit. Specifically, the claw portion 53b of the arm portion 53a engages with the hole portion 33 of the frame 35 of the developing unit D. This causes the second shutter 53 to temporarily engage with the frame 35. The surface 47b (see FIG. 6(b)) is a moving portion (engagement position moving portion) that biases the claw portion 53b to move the claw portion 53b to the outer diameter side (outside the container frame 47a) when the second shutter 53 moves to the open position (when the toner cartridge E is installed). In other words, the surface 47b moves the claw portion 53b to the engagement position for engaging with the hole portion 33. Surface 47b causes claw portion 53b to move to the outside of container frame 47a (the side away from the center (rotation axis) of container frame 47a), i.e., in a direction away from the rotation axis of second conveying member 46 provided inside container frame 47a.

[0148] The surface 47b is a guide portion that guides the claw portion 53b, the arm portion 53a, and the claw portion 53b to the outer diameter side of the container frame 47a (i.e., the engagement position), and is also a biasing portion (pressing portion) that biases and presses the arm 53a and the claw portion 53b to the outer diameter side. The surface 47b is also an engagement position holding portion that holds the engagement portion (claw portion 53b) in the engagement position (position where it engages with the hole portion 33) when the second shutter 53 is in the open position. The surface 47b supports the snap fit (arm portion 53a or claw portion 53b), so that the claw portion 53b does not move to the retracted position where it is retracted from the hole portion 33.

[0149] 11(b), the surface 45a of the convex portion 45 comes into contact with the surface 37a1 of the hole portion 37a, and the first shutter 37 is pushed in the rotation direction of the container frame 47a. As a result, the first shutter 37 moves in conjunction with the rotation of the container frame 47a, opening the second opening 30. The convex portion (protrusion, projection) 45 provided on the container frame 47a is an opening force applying portion (open position moving portion, opening / closing member moving portion) that applies force to the first shutter 37 to move the first shutter 37 to the open position.

[0150] 12(a) and 12(b), the first toner storage section 28 and the second toner storage section 47 are in communication with each other via the third opening 49 and the second opening 30. This completes the opening operation of the second opening 30 and the third opening 49.

[0151] At this time, the abutting portion 42a and the rotation guided portion 42b engage with the rotation guide portion 35b, thereby restricting the movement of the toner cartridge E relative to the developing unit D while the second opening 30 and the third opening 49 are open.

[0152] Specifically, the toner cartridge E is restricted from moving in the direction y and in the direction k opposite to the insertion direction f due to the force received from the development unit D. In this state, the second drive transmission part 48 of the toner cartridge E is connected to the drive transmission part 38 of the development unit D. This allows the drive force that rotates the second toner conveying member 46 to be transmitted from the development unit D. As a result, the toner t can be circulated (supplied) from the second toner storage part 47t of the toner cartridge E to the first toner storage part 28 of the development unit D. In this embodiment, the drive transmission part 38 that transmits drive to the second drive transmission part 48 of the toner cartridge E is provided on the development unit D side. However, as in embodiments described below, the drive transmission part 38 that meshes with the second drive transmission part 48 may also be provided on the toner cartridge E side. The meshing of gears is called meshing, and engagement of a belt or the like with protrusions is also considered to be meshing.

[0153] ■ (Switching from toner cartridge insertion to shutter release) Next, the switching operation from the toner cartridge E insertion operation to the shutter opening operation, which is a feature of this embodiment, will be described with reference to Figures 1, 9(a) and 9(b). Figure 9(a) is a side view showing the force relationship acting on the toner cartridge E when the insertion into the development unit D is complete. Figure 9(b) is a side view showing the force relationship acting on the toner cartridge E in another configuration example of the abutting portion 42a.

[0154] 9(a), when the user inserts the toner cartridge E into the development unit D, the abutting portion 42a and the abutted portion 35a abut against each other. As a result, forces F1 and F2 act on the toner cartridge E. Specifically, the force F1 applied by the user when inserting the toner cartridge E acts on the gripping member 44, and an equal force F2 acts on the abutting portion 42a of the insertion guided portion 42 as a reaction force.

[0155] Here, consider a straight line (imaginary line) m that passes through the rotation axis S of the toner cartridge E (the rotation center of the second shutter member 53) and is parallel to the installation direction of the toner cartridge E. The length of the arm from the imaginary line m to the gripping member 44 is r1, and the length of the arm from the rotation axis (rotation center) S to the abutment portion 42a is r2. In this case, the moment M acting on the rotation axis S of the third opening 49 (see FIG. 5(d)) of the toner cartridge E can be expressed by the following equation. M=F1×r1+F2×r2 9(a), the rotation direction of the toner cartridge E (container frame 47a) when opening the second opening 30 and the third opening 49 is the counterclockwise direction indicated by arrow e when the toner cartridge E is viewed along the axial direction of the rotation of the container frame 47a. In this embodiment, the abutting portion 42a is located on a straight line (imaginary line) m that passes through the rotation center S of the container frame 47a and is parallel to the insertion direction (guide direction) f, so r2 = 0. Furthermore, when the opening direction of the second opening 30 and the third opening 49 (direction indicated by arrow e) is taken as positive, the gripping member 44 is provided downstream of the straight line m in the rotation direction e.

[0156] Therefore, F1×r1>0, and therefore M>0.

[0157] Since F1×r1>0 and M>0, the force F1 applied by the user when inserting the toner cartridge E into the developing unit D is converted into a rotational force in the direction e to open the second opening 30 and the third opening 49. Therefore, the force F1 acting in the direction f to insert the toner cartridge E causes the entire toner cartridge E to rotate.

[0158] Here, the larger the value of the moment M, the easier it is to rotate the toner cartridge E. In other words, the larger the value of the moment M, the easier it is to operate the opening operations of the second opening 30 and the third opening 49 smoothly.

[0159] 9(b), one possible configuration for increasing the moment M is to change the position at which the abutting portion 42a is provided. Specifically, one possible configuration is to position the abutting portion 42a away from the gripping member 44 on the opposite side of an imaginary line m that passes through the rotation center S of the container frame 47a and is parallel to the mounting direction f.

[0160] If the force acting on the abutting portion 42a is F3 and the distance from the virtual line m to the abutting portion 42a is r3, the moment M acting on the rotation center S can be expressed by the following equation, similar to the configuration of FIG. 9(a). M = F1 × r1 + F3 × r3 At this time, F3×r3 is the moment in the opening direction e of the second opening 30 and the third opening 49. Therefore, the moment M becomes large, and the container frame 47a becomes more likely to rotate in the opening direction e. Note that the positional relationship between the abutting portion 42a and the gripping member 44 described above can be applied to the relationship between the abutting portion 43a and the gripping member 44 to obtain the same effect.

[0161] The positional relationship of the gripping members 44 will be described in more detail with reference to Figure 64. Figure 64 shows the toner cartridge E projected onto a projection plane perpendicular to the rotation axis S, with the toner cartridge E divided into two regions R1 and R2 by an imaginary line m.

[0162] At this time, the gripping member 44 is located in the same region R1 as the third opening (discharge port) 49. In this embodiment, the entire gripping member 44 is located in region R1. In other words, the tip (gripping portion) 44t and base portion 44s of the gripping member 44 are both located in region R1. However, it is particularly desirable that the tip portion (operating portion, gripping portion) 44t, which is directly gripped by the user, be located on the region R1 side. The base portion of the gripping member 44 is the connection portion between the container 47 and the gripping member 44. In addition, the convex portion (container-side protrusion, opening / closing member moving portion) 45, the claw portion 53a (opening / closing member-side engaging portion), and the surface (engagement position moving portion) 47b are also located on the region R1 side.

[0163] All of the convex portion 45, claw portion 53a, surface 47b, third opening 49, and gripping member 44 related to the opening and closing operations of the first shutter 37 and second shutter 53 are arranged in region R1. This simplifies the configuration related to the first shutter 37 and second shutter 53, leading to the miniaturization of the toner cartridge E and developing cartridge D.

[0164] To explain the positional relationship of the gripping member 44 in more detail, the toner cartridge E is divided into four parts by imaginary lines m and n. Imaginary line n is a straight line that passes through the rotation center S and is perpendicular to imaginary line m. In this case, the toner cartridge E is divided into four areas: area R1a, area R1b, area R2a, and area R2b. In other words, area R1a, area R1b, area R2a, and area R2b are arranged in this order along the direction of arrow e. Note that this is the rotation direction of the container 47 when the toner cartridge E is installed. Alternatively, the direction of arrow e is the direction in which the second shutter 53 rotates from the open position to the closed position relative to the container 47.

[0165] The gripping member 44 (tip portion 44t, base portion 44s) and the surface (engagement position moving portion) 47b are arranged in the same region R1a as the third opening 49.

[0166] The protrusion 45 is disposed in region R1b, which is one region downstream of region R1a in the direction of arrow e. The claw 53a is disposed between the protrusion 45 and the gripping member 44 in the direction of arrow e. The claw 53a is located near the imaginary line n. Although the majority of the claw 53a is disposed on the region R1b side, it is also possible to dispose the claw 53a in region R1a.

[0167] In the direction of the arrow e, the gripping member 44, the third opening 49, the surface 47b, the claw portion (engagement portion) 53a, and the protrusion 45 are arranged in this order.

[0168] ■ (Shutter closing operation) 10(a), 10(b), 11(b), 11(c), and 12(b), the closing operation of the first shutter 37 of the developing unit D and the second shutter 53 of the toner cartridge E will be described. The closing operation of the first shutter 37 and the second shutter 53 is performed in the reverse order of the opening operation described above. The closing direction of the first shutter 37 and the second shutter 53 is the direction in which the container frame 47a rotates clockwise (the direction of arrow h in FIG. 12(b)) when viewed in the axial direction from the side opposite to the side where the second drive transmission part 48 is installed.

[0169] First, in the state shown in Figure 12(b), the user grips the gripping member 44 and rotates the container frame 47a in the closing direction (the direction of arrow h, the closing direction). Then, the surface 45b of the convex portion 45 of the container frame 47a abuts against the surface 37a2 of the hole portion 37a of the first shutter 37. As a result, the first shutter 37 receives a force from the surface 37a2 and rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the container 47. The first shutter 37 then moves to the closed position where it closes the second opening 30. The surface 45b of the convex portion 45 is a closing force applying portion that applies a force to the first shutter 37 and moves the first shutter 37 to the closed position.

[0170] Furthermore, at this time, as shown in FIG. 11(c), the claw portion 53b of the second shutter 53 is disposed in the engagement position by the surface 47b as described above, and the claw portion 53b is engaged with the hole 33 of the developing unit D. Therefore, the surface 53f of the claw portion 53b abuts against the surface 33a of the hole 33, and the second shutter 35 does not rotate along with the container frame 47a. In other words, the claw portion 53b engages with the hole 33, and the surface 53f receives a force from the surface 33a, thereby restricting the rotation of the second shutter 35. In other words, the second shutter 35 does not move integrally with the container frame 47a, and the second shutter 35 and the container frame 47a are able to move relative to each other. Therefore, the second shutter 53 moves relative to the container frame 47a to the closed position where it closes the third opening 49.

[0171] When the claw portion 53b is in the engagement position, it engages with the hole portion (receiving device side engagement portion) 33, and is thereby a shutter side engagement portion that can receive a force that moves the second shutter 53 to the closed position. In particular, the surface 53f of the claw portion 53b that comes into contact with the hole portion 33 is a force receiving portion that receives a force from the hole portion 33.

[0172] When the container frame 47a is further rotated in the closing direction (the direction of the arrow h), the toner cartridge E is disengaged from the developing unit D as shown in FIGS. 10(a) and 10(b).

[0173] That is, the claw portion 53b of the second shutter 53 that was engaged with the hole portion 33 of the developing unit D moves toward the inner diameter side (radially inward) of the container frame 47a so that the surface 53e is aligned with the surface 47b of the container frame 47a. That is, the claw portion 53b moves along the surface 47b, retracting from the position where it engaged with the hole 33 (the engagement position), to the retracted position. This is the state shown in Figures 1(a) and 1(b).

[0174] More specifically, as described above, the outer periphery of the container frame 47a has a different diameter at the boundary of the surface 47b. When the container frame 47a rotates and the surface 47b reaches the position of the claw portion 53b, the diameter of the container frame 47a gradually decreases along the surface 47b. Therefore, the shape of the arm portion 53a, which has been elastically deformed toward the outer diameter, is restored by the container frame 47a. In other words, the elastic deformation of the arm portion 53a is released, and the arm portion 53a moves toward the inner diameter.

[0175] As a result, the claw portions 53b also move toward the inner diameter side of the container frame 47a due to the elastic force of the arm portions 53a (see FIG. 11(c)). The surface 47b is a guide portion that guides the claw portions 53b as they move toward the inner diameter side of the container frame 47a.

[0176] That is, when the second shutter 53 moves from the closed position to the open position (when the toner cartridge E is installed), the surface 47b guides the claw portion 53b from the retracted position to the engaged position. Conversely, when the second shutter 53 moves from the open position to the closed position (when the toner cartridge E is removed), the surface 47b guides the claw portion 53b from the engaged position to the retracted position.

[0177] The surface 47b is a surface that forms a recessed portion recessed into the inner diameter side of the container frame 47a, and the surface 47a forms a clearance (relief portion) that allows the claw portions 53b to move toward the inner diameter side of the container frame 47a. In other words, the surface 47b is also a clearance portion that allows the claw portions 53b to move to the retracted position.

[0178] The inner diameter side of the container frame 47a is the inner side in the direction of the radius of rotation when the second shutter 53 rotates relative to the container frame 47a. The inner diameter side is the side facing the interior of the container frame 47a (inner side), and is the side approaching the rotation axis (center axis) of the container frame 47a. The inner diameter side is the side approaching the second conveying member 46 (or its rotation axis) provided inside the container frame 47a.

[0179] The claw portion 53b of the second shutter 53 moves from the engagement position (see Figure 11(c)) to the retracted position (see Figure 1(b)), disengaging from the hole portion 33, making it possible to remove the toner cartridge E in the direction of arrow k in Figure 10(b).

[0180] When the claws 53b move from the engagement position to the retracted position (or from the retracted position to the engagement position), the movement amount measured along the radial direction of the container frame 47a is set to 1.3 mm or more. By allowing the claws 53b to move in the radial direction by 1.3 mm or more, the claws 53b can reliably switch between a state in which they are engaged with the holes 33 and a state in which they are disengaged.

[0181] Although the claw portion 53b is configured to be able to move in the radial direction of the container frame 47a (the direction of the rotation radius of the second shutter 53), it is not necessary for the claw portion 53b to move parallel to the radial direction, and it may also move in a direction intersecting the radial direction.

[0182] In other words, it is not essential that the claw portions 53b move only in the radial direction, but it is sufficient that the claw portions 53b move at least in the radial direction relative to the shutter main body portion 53m. For example, as the claw portions 53b move in the radial direction, the claw portions 53b may also move in the axial direction of the container frame 47a (the rotational axis direction of the second shutter 53). Alternatively, as the claw portions 53b move in the radial direction, the claw portions 53b may move in the circumferential direction of the container frame 47a (the rotational direction of the second shutter 53) relative to the shutter main body portion 53m.

[0183] When the toner cartridge E is inserted into the mounting position of the developing unit D, the gripping member 44 is located downstream in the rotation direction of the container frame 47a with respect to an imaginary line that passes through the rotation center and extends in the insertion direction f, as viewed in the direction of the rotation axis of the container frame 47a. The gripping member 44 is configured to receive, in this position, a force that rotates the container frame 47a due to a user's operation. When the gripping member 44 receives a force in the insertion direction f, this position generates a moment that acts to rotate the container frame 47a relative to the developing unit D.

[0184] From another perspective, the toner cartridge E according to this embodiment is configured such that, at this position, the force acting on the grip member 44 when rotating the container frame 47a (arrow R in FIG. 9) includes a component force in the insertion direction f (arrow Rf in FIG. 9). Because the user applies a force to the grip member 44 in the insertion direction f during insertion, a force in the insertion direction f is acting on the grip member 44 when the toner cartridge E reaches the mounting position. In other words, when the toner cartridge E reaches the mounting position, part of the force required to rotate the container frame 47a is already acting on the grip member 44. Therefore, when the user pushes the grip member 44 in the insertion direction f, the force in the insertion direction f continues to act on the grip member 44 when the container frame 47a is rotated following the insertion of the toner cartridge E into the mounting position.

[0185] As a result, in the series of mounting operations in which the user grips the gripping member (handle) 44 to insert the toner cartridge E to the mounting position of the developing unit D and then rotates the container frame 47a, the force conversion from the insertion operation to the rotation operation is performed smoothly. Therefore, the user can intuitively insert the toner cartridge E into the developing unit D and open the first shutter 37 and the second shutter 53, greatly improving operability.

[0186] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when viewed in the direction of the rotation axis of the container frame 47a, the gripping member (handle) 44 is configured to receive force at a position farther from the center of rotation than the abutting portion 42a when the toner cartridge E is in the mounted position. As a result, when the container frame 47a rotates, due to the principle of leverage, the container frame 47a can be rotated with less force than the sliding resistance between the abutting portion 42a and the abutted portion 35a and the rotation guide 35b. The same applies to the sliding resistance between the abutting portion 43a and the abutted portion 36a and the rotation guide 36b.

[0187] In this embodiment, the second shutter 53 is configured to be rotatable around the container 47 (container frame 47a). This allows the second shutter 53 to be opened and closed by the rotation of the toner cartridge E relative to the developing unit D (receiving device). Opening and closing the second shutter 53 by the rotation of the toner cartridge E has the advantage of reducing the space required to open and close the second shutter 53 compared to opening and closing the second shutter 53 by linear movement of the toner cartridge E.

[0188] In other words, when the toner cartridge E rotates relative to the developing unit D, the toner cartridge E simply changes its posture, and the center (axis of rotation) of the toner cartridge E hardly moves relative to the developing unit D. In other words, when the second shutter 53 is opened or closed, the area that the toner cartridge E occupies in the developing unit D hardly changes. As a result, there is no need to provide a large space in the developing unit D for opening and closing the second shutter 53. In other words, by employing the toner cartridge E of this embodiment, it is possible to reduce the size of the receiving device (developing unit D) that receives the toner cartridge E, and the image forming apparatus in which the receiving device is installed.

[0189] Furthermore, the engaging portion (claw portion 53b) of the second shutter 53 is configured to move in accordance with the rotation of the toner cartridge E. In other words, the engaging portion is configured to move to an appropriate position at the timing of the rotation of the toner cartridge E. As a result, the engaging portion does not interfere with the installation and removal of the toner cartridge E. Furthermore, the engaging portion can close the opening and closing member during the removal of the toner cartridge E.

[0190] Furthermore, the engaging portion is moved by the rotation of the toner cartridge E. In other words, the engaging portion is moved by utilizing the rotation of the toner cartridge E. Therefore, there is no need for a mechanism to transmit a driving force from the device main body to the toner cartridge in order to move the engaging portion. This means that the configurations of the toner cartridge E, the developing unit D, and the image forming device can be simplified.

[0191] (Variation) In this embodiment, the arm portion (support portion) 53c itself has an elastic portion that is elastically deformable, and the claw portion (engagement portion) 53b moves from the engagement position to the retracted position by the elastic force of the arm portion 53c itself.

[0192] However, the elastic portion may be provided as a separate member (separate member) from the support portion (arm portion 53c) and the engagement portion (claw portion 53b). For example, the arm portion 53c (support portion) is attached to the shutter main body portion 53m so that it can slide and rotate. Then, the arm portion 53c is biased to the retracted position by an elastic portion (elastic member) separate from the arm portion 53c. With this configuration, it is possible to achieve the same effect as this embodiment even if the arm portion 53c itself does not elastically deform. This configuration will be described in detail in Example 7.

[0193] In this embodiment, the entire second shutter 53, including the shutter main body 53m, arm 53a, and claw 53b, is integrally formed from resin. However, the second shutter 53 may also be formed by combining separate components. For example, a metal leaf spring (metal member) may be connected to the shutter main body 53m, which is made of resin, and used as a support for the shutter-side engagement portion. In this case, the tip of the leaf spring may be bent to form the shutter-side engagement portion (claw 53b), or a separate member from the leaf spring that serves as the shutter-side engagement portion may be fixed to the tip of the leaf spring.

[0194] Alternatively, the arm portion 53a may be configured by combining a plurality of members made of resin, metal, or the like.

[0195] <Example 2> (The laser scans the inside of the handle) In this embodiment, a configuration that contributes to space saving within the image forming apparatus will be described in detail.

[0196] The configurations disclosed as examples will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Here, components having the same functions and actions as those in the above-described examples will be given the same names as those in the above-described examples, and detailed descriptions will be omitted. The drawings are simplified, with some shapes and parts omitted. The dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative positions of the components described in the examples may be changed as appropriate depending on the configuration of the device and various conditions. Therefore, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the configurations disclosed in the examples.

[0197] The electrophotographic image forming apparatus will be described in detail below, since it is the same as in the other embodiments. The vicinity of the receiving portion of the toner cartridge E of the developing unit D will be described below.

[0198] Fig. 13(a) is a side cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the grip member 44 of the toner cartridge E installed in the image forming apparatus A and the optical path of the laser light L when forming an electrostatic latent image. Fig. 13(b) is a top cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the grip member 44 of the toner cartridge E installed in the image forming apparatus A and the irradiation range of the laser light L when forming an electrostatic latent image.

[0199] In this embodiment, the laser light L (light for forming a latent image on the photosensitive drum 16) passes through an opening formed between the gripping member 44 and the container frame 47a.

[0200] As shown in FIG. 13(b), the gripping member 44 has an operating portion (grip portion) 44b that the user grasps and operates, which extends in the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E. Both longitudinal ends of the gripping member 44 are fixedly supported (integrally molded) by support portions 44a relative to the container frame 47a. Therefore, the toner cartridge E has a space between the operating portion 44b, which is parallel to the rotation axis S of the gripping member 44, and the container frame 47a. In the image forming apparatus A according to this embodiment, the laser light L of the laser scanner 1 passes through the space (communication portion) between the operating portion 44b of the gripping member 44 and the container frame 47a. This saves space inside the apparatus.

[0201] That is, as shown in FIG. 13(a), the gripping member 44 is tilted to its rotation limit and each shutter is in the open position, resulting in a complete installation state. In this complete installation state, the operating portion 44b of the gripping member 44 is configured to be in a position that does not block the optical path of the laser light L. Also, as shown in FIG. 13(b), the support portion 44a of the gripping member 44 is configured to support the operating portion 44b at a position outside the irradiation range (scanning range) of the laser light L in the longitudinal direction. This allows the toner cartridge E to be efficiently installed in the image forming apparatus A without impairing operability for the user. This leads to space savings and makes it possible to realize a more compact image forming apparatus A.

[0202] Specifically, it is more preferable to configure the lower surface of the operating portion 44b so that it is approximately parallel to the plane formed when the laser light is scanned when the device is attached. Specifically, the lower side of the handle is parallel to the laser from the plane that contacts the bottle periphery at the base of the handle. In other words, when comparing the lower surface of the handle on the opening side with the lower surface of the handle on the upstream side of the opening in the attachment direction, the lower surface of the handle on the downstream side in the attachment direction is configured to be farther away from the bottle periphery.

[0203] Example 3 The configurations disclosed as examples will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Here, components having the same functions and actions as those in the above-described examples will be given the same names as those in the above-described examples, and detailed descriptions will be omitted. The drawings are simplified, with some shapes and parts omitted. The dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative positions of the components described in the examples may be changed as appropriate depending on the configuration of the device and various conditions. Therefore, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the configurations disclosed in the examples.

[0204] The description of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus is omitted because it is the same as in the other embodiments, and the detailed description of the vicinity of the receiving portion of the toner cartridge E of the developing unit D will be given next.

[0205] In this embodiment, a detailed description will be given of the configuration for suppressing leakage of toner t near the communicating portion 58 between the second opening (accommodation body opening) 30 and the third opening (container opening) 49 when attaching or detaching the toner cartridge E from the development unit D.

[0206] ■ (Outline of the developing unit and toner cartridge) The developing unit D and toner cartridge E that are detachable from the main body of the image forming apparatus A will be described with reference to Figure 15. Figure 15(a) is a side cross-sectional view that schematically shows the developing unit D and the toner cartridge E separated from each other. Figure 15(b) is a side cross-sectional view that schematically shows the toner cartridge E installed (mounted) in the developing unit D.

[0207] The toner cartridge (developer container) E includes a container frame 47a having a second toner storage section (container storage chamber) 47t that stores toner t. The container frame 47a also includes a third opening (container opening) 49 on its circumferential surface that connects the inside and outside of the second toner storage section 47t. Similarly, a second shutter (container shutter) 53 that can open and close the third opening 49 is movably attached to the circumferential surface of the container frame 47a. A second toner transport member 46 is rotatably supported within the second toner storage section 47t of the container frame 47a. The second toner transport member 46 transports and discharges the toner stored in the second toner storage section toward the third opening 49.

[0208] The toner cartridge E equipped with these components is configured to be detachable from the developing unit D. When the toner cartridge E is installed (mounted) in the developing unit D, the container frame 47a is configured to be rotatable (movable relative to) the developing unit D (frame 35) about a rotation axis parallel to the developing roller axial direction z.

[0209] The developing unit (housing body) D includes a developing roller (developer carrier) 24 as a developing means and a developing blade (regulating member) 25. The developing roller 24 and the developing blade 25 are assembled into a frame (developing frame) 35 of the developing unit D.

[0210] The frame 35 is provided with a first toner storage section (storage body storage chamber) 28 that stores toner t, a developing chamber 31, a first opening 29 that connects the developing chamber 31 to the first toner storage section 28, and a second opening (storage body opening) 30 that connects the inside and outside of the first toner storage section 28. The second opening 30 is provided at a position facing a third opening 49 of the toner cartridge E attached to the developing unit D. A first shutter (storage body shutter) 37 that can open and close the second opening 30 is also movably attached to the frame 35. A first toner transport member 27 is rotatably supported within the first toner storage section 28 of the frame 35. The developing roller 24 is rotatably provided on the frame 35 so that a portion of its peripheral surface is exposed within the developing chamber 31.

[0211] When the toner cartridge E and the developing unit D are installed, a communication portion 58 is formed between the third opening 49 of the toner cartridge E and the second opening 30 of the developing unit D. The first toner accommodating portion 28 and the second toner accommodating portion 47t are in communication with each other through this communication portion 58. In this state, the second toner conveying member 46, which is rotatably supported in the second toner accommodating portion 47t of the toner cartridge E, rotates in the direction of arrow u1. As a result, the toner t accommodated in the second toner accommodating portion 47t of the toner cartridge E passes through the third opening 49 and is sent out of the second toner accommodating portion 47t. The toner t sent from the toner cartridge E through the third opening 49 passes through the communication portion 58 and is sent from the second opening 30 into the first toner accommodating portion 28 of the developing unit D. The toner t is sent through the first opening 29 to the developing chamber 31 by the rotation of the first toner conveying member 27, which is rotatably supported in the first toner accommodating portion 28, in the direction of arrow u2.

[0212] The developing chamber 31 is provided with a developing roller 24 incorporating a magnet roller 26. The developing roller 24 attracts the toner t in the developing chamber 31 to the surface of the developing roller 24 by the magnetic force of the magnet roller 26. The developing blade 25 is disposed so as to elastically contact the developing roller 24 with a constant contact pressure. The developing roller 24 rotates in the direction of arrow b, thereby restricting the amount of toner t adhering to the surface of the developing roller 24 and imparting a frictional charge to the toner t. This forms a toner layer on the surface of the developing roller 24. The developing roller 24 rotates in the direction of arrow b to which a voltage is applied from an image forming apparatus A (not shown), supplying the toner t to the development area of ​​the photosensitive drum 16. As a result, the toner t is transferred in accordance with the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 16, making the electrostatic latent image visible, and forming a toner image on the photosensitive drum 16. The developing roller 24, the first toner transport member 27, and the second toner transport member 46 are driven to rotate by power transmitted from a power source, such as a motor (not shown), provided in the main body of the apparatus.

[0213] ■ (Shutter configuration of developing unit and toner cartridge) The shutter configurations of the toner cartridge E and the developing unit D will be described with reference to Figures 16, 17, 18, 19, 24(a), and 24(b). Figure 16 is an exploded perspective view of the vicinity of the third opening of the toner cartridge E. Figure 17 is a perspective view showing the shutter opening and closing operation of the toner cartridge E. Figure 17(a) shows the shutter closed state, and Figure 17(b) shows the shutter open state. Figure 18 is an exploded perspective view of the vicinity of the second opening of the developing unit D. Figure 19 is an exploded perspective view showing the shutter opening and closing operation of the developing unit D. Figure 19(a) shows the shutter closed state, and Figure 19(b) shows the shutter open state. Figure 24(a) is an A1 cross-sectional view of the frame 48 of the toner cartridge E shown in Figure 16. Figure 24(b) is an A2 cross-sectional view of the frame 33 of the developing unit D shown in Figure 18.

[0214] The toner cartridge E includes a container frame 47a, a third opening 49 provided in the container frame 47a, a second shutter 53, and a second seal member 157. The container frame 47a also includes guide portions 50a and 50b for guiding the second shutter 53.

[0215] The second shutter 53 is provided with guided portions 154a and 154b that are guided by guide portions 50a and 50b, respectively, that are provided on the container frame 47a. The guided portions 154a and 154b that are provided on the second shutter 53 are inserted into gaps 50a1 and 50b1 between the outer portion 47a1 of the container frame 47a and the guide portions 50a and 50b. This allows the second shutter 53 to move between an open state (container open position, FIG. 17(b)) that opens the third opening 49 provided in the container frame 47a, and a closed state (container closed position, FIG. 17(a)) that closes the third opening 49.

[0216] As shown in FIG. 18, the developing unit D includes a frame 35, a second opening 30 provided in the frame 35, a first shutter 37, and a first seal member 32. As shown in FIG. 24(b), the frame 35 is provided with a guide portion 34a and an opening / closing guide portion 34b for guiding the first shutter 37. The first shutter 37 is provided with a guided portion 37s and a guided portion 37t that are guided by the guide portion 34a and the opening / closing guide portion 34b, respectively, provided in the frame 35. The guided portion 37s and the guided portion 37t provided in the first shutter 37 are inserted into gaps 34a1 and 34b1 between the outer portions 35a and 35b of the frame 35 and the opening / closing guide portions 34a and 34b. This allows the first shutter 37 to move between an open state (container open position, Figure 19(b)) in which it opens the second opening 30 provided in the frame body 35, and a closed state (container closed position, Figure 19(a)) in which it closes the second opening 30.

[0217] [Explanation of shutter opening and closing operation] The operation of the shutters provided in the developing unit D and the toner cartridge E of this embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0218] 20, 21, 22, and 23 are diagrams illustrating the shutter opening / closing operation of the toner cartridge E and the developing unit D. FIG. 20 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing the configuration around the opening when the toner cartridge E is engaged with the developing unit D, with FIG. 20(a) showing the opening closed and FIG. 20(b) showing the opening open. FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the toner cartridge E and the developing unit D. FIG. 22 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the hole 33L and the protrusion 56a, and the hole 33R and the protrusion 56b when the developing unit D and the toner cartridge E are engaged. FIG. 23 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing the shutter when the toner cartridge E is engaged with the developing unit D.

[0219] The second shutter member 53 has a shutter main body portion (closing portion) 53m for closing the third opening 39, similar to the first embodiment. Both ends of the shutter main body portion 53m have arm portions (connecting portion, support portion, elastic portion, deformable portion, movable portion) 56c, 56d, respectively. Also, the second shutter member 53 has a claw portion (convex portion, protruding portion, shutter-side engaging portion, engaged portion) 56a supported by the arm portion 56c, and a claw portion (protruding portion, protruding portion, shutter-side engaging portion, engaged portion) 56b supported by the arm portion 56d.

[0220] Although the configuration and operation are partially different, the claws 56a and 56b correspond to the claw 53b in Example 1. Similarly, the arm portions 56c and 56d correspond to the arm portion 53a in Example 1. Differences from Example 1 will be described later.

[0221] As shown in FIG. 20(a), immediately after the toner cartridge E and the developing unit D are engaged (mounted), the third opening 49 of the toner cartridge E and the second opening 30 of the developing unit D are not positioned opposite each other. Furthermore, when the toner cartridge E is installed in the developing unit D, as shown in FIG. 21, a protrusion (container engaged portion) 56a of the second shutter 53 of the toner cartridge E faces (engages) with a hole 33L of the frame 35 of the developing unit D. Similarly, a protrusion (container engaged portion) 56b of the second shutter 53 of the toner cartridge E faces (engages) with a hole 33R of the frame 35 of the developing unit D. Furthermore, protrusions (container engaging portions) 45a and 45b of the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E face (engage) with holes 37aL and 37aR of the first shutter 37 of the developing unit D.

[0222] In the above-described first embodiment, when the toner cartridge E is inserted into the developing unit D, the claw portion (shutter-side engaging portion) 53b of the second shutter member 53 does not enter the hole portion 33 (see FIG. 1(a)). In other words, the claw portion 53b does not enter and engage with the hole portion 33 until the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E rotates (see FIG. 11(c)).

[0223] In contrast to this, in this embodiment, before the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E is rotated, the convex portions (claw portions, shutter side engagement portions) 56a, 56b of the second shutter 53 enter into the hole portions 33 (33R, 33L) of the development unit D.

[0224] Furthermore, the shutter side engaging portions (claw portions 56a, 56b) of this embodiment receive a force for moving the second shutter 53 from the closed position to the open position, and a force for moving the second shutter 53 from the open position to the closed position, from the developing unit D. This will be explained below.

[0225] ■(Opening operation) First, the toner cartridge E is installed in a predetermined mounting position of the developing unit D. Then, by rotating the toner cartridge E, the third opening 49 of the toner cartridge E can be changed from a closed state (non-communicating position, FIG. 17(a)) to an open state (communicating position, FIG. 17(b)). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 20, the user rotates the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E in the direction of arrow k1 around point F. At this time, when the container frame 47a rotates in the direction of arrow k1 around point F, a downstream side surface 56a1 of the protrusion 56a provided on the second shutter 53 in the direction of arrow k1 comes into contact with a downstream surface 33L1 of the hole 33L in the direction of arrow k1 (see FIG. 22). Similarly, when the container frame 47a rotates in the direction of arrow k1, a downstream side surface 56b1 of the protrusion 56b comes into contact with a downstream surface 33R1 of the hole 33R in the direction of arrow k1. Therefore, when the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E rotates in the direction of arrow k1, the second shutter 53 does not move because it is restricted by the holes 33L and 33R provided in the frame 35 of the developing unit D. As a result, the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E and the second shutter 53 move relative to each other, and the third opening 49 provided in the container frame 47a is exposed through the second shutter 53 and opened.

[0226] That is, the claws 56a, 56b provided on the second shutter 53 receive force from the holes 33 (33L, 33R) of the developing unit, causing the second shutter 53 to move relative to the container frame 47a. In other words, the second shutter 53 uses the force received by the claws 56a, 56b to rotate and move from an open position where the third opening 49 is at least partially opened to a closed position where the third opening 49 is substantially closed.

[0227] 23, the container frame 47a rotates in the direction of arrow k1 around point F. As this rotation occurs, a downstream surface 45a1 in the direction of arrow k1 of the protrusion 45a provided on the container frame 47a presses a downstream surface 37aL1 in the direction of arrow k1 of a hole 37aL provided in the first shutter 37 in the direction of arrow c1. Similarly, a downstream surface 45b1 in the direction of arrow k1 of the protrusion 45b provided on the container frame 47a presses a downstream surface 37aR1 in the direction of arrow k1 of a hole 37aR provided in the first shutter 37 in the direction of arrow c1. Therefore, as the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E rotates in the direction of arrow k1 around point F, the first shutter 37 of the developing unit D moves in the direction of arrow c1 relative to the frame 35, thereby opening the second opening 30 (FIG. 20(b)).

[0228] In this way, the first shutter 37 changes the second opening 30 of the developing unit D from a closed state to an open state in accordance with the rotational displacement of the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E in the direction of arrow k1. Then, as shown in FIG. 20(b), the first toner accommodating portion 28 of the developing unit D and the second toner accommodating portion 47t of the toner cartridge E communicate with each other via a communication portion 58 formed by a part of the second opening 30 and the third opening 49. This makes it possible to supply toner t from the second toner accommodating portion 47t of the toner cartridge E to the first toner accommodating portion 28 of the developing unit D.

[0229] As shown in FIG. 27, when the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E rotates, point Q on the surface 47b of the container frame 47a comes into contact with the claws 56a and 56b, pushing (biasing) them. The force exerted by point Q on the claws 56a and 56b deforms the arms 56c and 56d toward the outer diameter of the container frame 47a. This causes the protrusion 56a supported by the arm 56c and the protrusions 56a and 56b supported by the arm 56d to penetrate deeper into the holes 33L and 33R, respectively. This means that the claws 56a and 56b have moved to the engagement position where they engage with the holes 33L and 33R. In other words, the claws 56a and 56b are held in the engagement position by the surface 47b.

[0230] Here, FIG. 24(c) is a cross-sectional view taken along line A3 in FIG. 20(b), showing the state where the second opening 30 of the developing unit D and the third opening 49 of the toner cartridge E are in communication with each other. As the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E rotates in the direction of arrow k1, the guide portions 50a and 50b provided on the container frame 47a are inserted into the gaps 34a1 and 34b1 provided on the frame 35 of the developing unit D, respectively, as shown in FIG. 24(c). Furthermore, the opening / closing guide portions 34a and 34b provided on the frame 35 of the developing unit D are inserted into the gaps 50a1 and 50b1 provided on the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E. This prevents the toner cartridge E from moving in the direction of arrow q1 when the second opening 30 of the developing unit D and the third opening 49 of the toner cartridge E are in communication with each other (FIGS. 20(b) and 24(c)). That is, in a state where the second opening 30 of the developing unit D and the third opening 49 of the toner cartridge E are in communication with each other, the developing unit D and the toner cartridge E are not separated from each other.

[0231] ■(Closure action) The closing operation, which changes the second opening 30 of the developing unit D and the third opening 49 of the toner cartridge E from the communicating state (FIG. 20(b)) to the closed state (FIG. 20(a)), is performed in the opposite direction to the opening operation. That is, when the user operates the first shutter 37 and the second shutter 53 in the opposite direction to the operation for moving them to the open state, the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E rotates around point F in the direction of arrow k2 (FIG. 20(b)). At this time, as shown in FIG. 23, the protrusion 45a provided on the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E and the hole 37aL provided in the first shutter 37 of the developing unit D are engaged. Similarly, the protrusion 45b provided on the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E and the hole 37aR provided in the first shutter 37 of the developing unit D are engaged.

[0232] Therefore, as the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E rotates in the direction of arrow k2 around point F, the downstream side surface 45a2 of the protrusion 45a in the direction of arrow k2 presses the downstream side surface 37aL2 of the first shutter 37 in the direction of arrow c2. Also, the downstream side surface 45b2 of the protrusion 45b in the direction of arrow k2 presses the downstream side surface 37aR2 of the hole 37aR in the direction of arrow k2 provided in the first shutter 37 in the direction of arrow c2. As a result, the first shutter 37 of the developing unit D moves in the direction of arrow c2.

[0233] In this way, the first shutter 37 of the developing unit D changes the second opening 30 from an open state to a closed state (FIG. 14(d), FIG. 20(a)). At this time, the second shutter 53 of the toner cartridge E closes the third opening 49 as described below.

[0234] When the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E rotates in the direction of arrow k2 around point F, as shown in Figure 27, the protrusion 56a provided on the second shutter 57 is engaged with the hole 33L provided in the developing unit D. Also, the protrusion 56b provided on the second shutter 57 is engaged with the hole 33R provided in the developing unit D. Since the protrusions 56a and 56b are engaged with the holes 33L and 33R, the second shutter 57 does not move when the container frame 47a rotates. Therefore, the third opening 49 provided in the container frame 47a moves to a position facing the second shutter 57, and the third opening 49 is closed.

[0235] The protrusions 56a and 56b provided on the second shutter 53 are shutter-side engaging portions (force receiving portions) that engage with the holes 33L and 33R to receive a force that moves the second shutter 57 to the closed position. In other words, the protrusions 56a and 56b engage with (get caught on) the holes 33L and 33R and receive a force from the holes 33L and 33R, thereby restricting the movement of the second shutter 57 and causing the second shutter 57 to move relative to the container frame 47a. In other words, the second shutter 53 rotates along the outer periphery of the container frame 47a, thereby moving from an open position that at least partially opens the third opening 49 to a closed position that substantially closes the third opening 49.

[0236] When the container frame 47a rotates relative to the second shutter 57 in this manner and the third opening 49 is closed by the second shutter 57, point Q of the surface 47b moves away from the protrusions 56a, 56b. Since the surface 47b has a stepped shape with point Q as the boundary, when point Q moves away from the protrusion 56a, the state in which the surface 47b elastically deformed the arm 56c is released, and a part of the protrusion 56a retracts from the hole 33L. In other words, the elastic force of the arm 56c moves the protrusion 56a from the engaged position to the retracted position.

[0237] Even when the protrusion 56a moves to the retracted position, a portion of the protrusion 56a remains inserted into the hole 33L. However, the amount of insertion of the protrusion 56a into the hole 33L decreases. Therefore, when the user removes the toner cartridge E from the development unit D, the protrusion 56a can be smoothly removed from the hole 33L.

[0238] Similarly, when point Q moves away from protrusion 56b, the state in which arm 56d was elastically deformed by surface 47b is released, and part of protrusion 56b retracts from hole 33R. That is, the elastic force of arm 56d moves protrusion 56b from the engaged position to the retracted position.

[0239] Even when the claw portion 56a moves to the retracted position, a portion of the protrusion 56a remains inserted into the hole 33L. However, the amount of insertion of the protrusion 56a into the hole 33L decreases. Therefore, when the user removes the toner cartridge E from the development unit D, the protrusion 56a can be smoothly removed from the hole 33L.

[0240] As a result, the protrusions 56a, 56b do not restrict removal of the toner cartridge E. The protrusions 56a, 56b move between the engagement position and the retracted position along the surface 47b of the container frame 47a. In other words, the surface 47b is a guide portion that guides the protrusions 56a, 56b from the retracted position to the engagement position when the second shutter 47 moves to the open position. Furthermore, the surface 47b is a guide portion that guides the protrusions 56a, 56b from the engagement position to the retracted position when the second shutter 47 moves to the closed position.

[0241] In this embodiment, even if the shutter-side engaging portion (claws 56a, 56b) moves from the engaging position to the retracted position, the engagement between the shutter-side engaging portion and the receiving device-side engaging portion (holes 33L, 33R) is not completely released. However, moving the shutter-side engaging portion to the retracted position makes it easier for the user to release the engagement.

[0242] [Configuration to prevent toner spillage when closing the shutter] As mentioned above, we will now explain in detail the configuration and relationship of the toner cartridge E and the vicinity of the opening of the developing unit D. We will also now explain in detail the behavior of the toner remaining in the developing unit and the opening (transfer section) of the toner cartridge E when the toner cartridge E is removed.

[0243] ■ (Explanation of toner collection operation) With reference to Figure 14, the operation of recovering toner t into the toner storage section accompanying the shutter closing operation will be described. Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the configuration of the vicinity of the communication portion 58 between the developing unit D and the toner cartridge E in this embodiment. Figure 14(a) is a diagram illustrating a state in which the second opening 30 and the third opening 49 are in a position where they overlap each other. In this state, the first toner storage section 28 of the developing unit D and the second toner storage section 47t of the toner cartridge E are in a state of communication via the communication portion 58. In this state of communication, it is possible to transport toner t from the toner cartridge E to the developing unit D.

[0244] FIG. 14(b) is a diagram showing a state in which the container frame 47a has been rotated relative to the frame 35 from the state shown in FIG. 14(a). In this state, the area where the second opening 30 and the third opening 49 overlap has become smaller. FIG. 14(c) is a diagram showing a state in which the container frame 47a has been further rotated relative to the frame 35 from the state shown in FIG. 14(b). In this state, the second opening 30 and the third opening 49 are in positions where they do not overlap, and the communication portion 58 is closed (disappears). In this state, the first shutter 37 does not completely close the second opening 30. Similarly, the second shutter 53 does not completely close the third opening 49.

[0245] 14(d) is a diagram showing a state in which the container frame 47a has been further rotated relative to the frame 35 from the state shown in FIG. 14(c). In this state, the first shutter 37 and the second shutter 53 completely close the second opening 30 and the third opening 49, respectively. In this state, the toner cartridge E can be removed from the developing unit D.

[0246] As shown in FIGS. 14(a) and 26, in this embodiment, the recovery section 30a is provided downstream of the second opening 30 in the closing direction (arrow c2 direction) of the first shutter 37. FIG. 26 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the communication section 58 as viewed from the first toner storage section 28 side. As shown in FIGS. 14(a) and 26, in this embodiment, the width of the third opening 49 in the displacement direction k2 of the container frame 47a (movement direction c2 of the first shutter 37) is narrower than the width of the second opening 30. In the open state of the communication section 58 shown in FIG. 14(a), the direction in which the third opening 49 moves relative to the second opening 30 due to the rotation of the container frame 47a is referred to as the displacement direction. At this time, the downstream end of the third opening 49 is positioned upstream of the downstream end of the second opening 30 in the displacement direction. That is, when the toner t is transported and supplied through the communication portion 58, the spatial region formed by the second opening 30 in the communication portion 58 is configured to open in the antigravity direction relative to the spatial region formed by the third opening 49. The space formed by the difference in size between the second opening 30 and the third opening 49 expands toward the second opening 30 of the communication portion 58 and is the collection portion 30a.

[0247] Furthermore, an upstream surface (upstream end) 49a below the direction of gravity G of the third opening 49 of the toner cartridge E is inclined so that the second opening 30 of the developing unit D is downward in the direction of gravity. That is, the upstream surface 49a is a surface area on the end face of the third opening 49 that faces the direction of arrow u1 (the rotation direction of the container frame 47a), and is inclined so that the first toner accommodating portion 28 (second opening 30) side is lower in the direction of gravity G than the second toner accommodating portion 47 side.

[0248] As shown in FIG. 14A, when toner t is supplied from the second toner storage portion 47t to the first toner storage portion 28, a supply state (above the direction of gravity G) is assumed in which the toner t fills the communication portion 58 up to the height of the third opening 49. The toner t supplied from the second toner storage portion 47t to the first toner storage portion 28 through the communication portion 58 passes through the communication portion 58 in the order of the third opening 49 and the second opening 30. Therefore, the height of the interface is restricted by the third opening 49, which is lower than the second opening 30. As shown in FIG. 15B, the second toner transport member 46 provided in the toner cartridge E, which rotates in the direction of arrow u1, transports the toner t in the direction of arrow ua1, which is opposite the direction of gravity G (the anti-gravity direction), upon reaching the third opening 49. If the third opening 49 is not clogged with toner t, the toner t transported to the third opening 49 by the second toner transport member 46 is supplied to the development unit D along the upstream surface 49a, which is inclined downward toward the first toner storage portion 28. In other words, the second toner transport member 46 of the toner cartridge E draws up the toner t up to the third opening 30, but does not pack it into the developing unit D. Therefore, when the toner t is filled up to the height of the third opening 49, the toner t will not be transported from the second toner storage chamber 47t to the first toner storage chamber 28 even if the second toner transport member 46 is rotated. In addition, the collection section 30a is provided upstream (above) the third opening 49 in the direction of gravity G. Therefore, no toner t is present in the collection section 30a.

[0249] 14(a) to 14(d), in order to change the second opening 30 and the third opening 49 from an open state to a closed state (non-communicating state), the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E is moved in the direction of arrow k2 (the first shutter 37 is moved in the direction of arrow c2). At this time, the upstream surface 49a of the third opening 49 of the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E in the movement direction (arrow k2 direction) of the container frame 47a moves (rises) in the direction of arrow k2 along with the movement of the container frame 47a while scraping up the toner t present in the communication portion 58. As the movement of the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E progresses, as shown in FIG. 14(b), the upstream surface 49a of the third opening 49 reaches the same height as the collection portion 30a of the second opening 30. This height is higher than the interface height of the toner t restricted by the downstream surface facing the upstream surface 49a of the third opening 49 in the communicating state of FIG. 14(a). 14(b), at this height, the upstream surface 49a of the third opening 49 is inclined in the direction of the arrow g segment, which is a composite of the arrow gy segment parallel to the direction of gravity G and the arrow x segment perpendicular to the arrow gy segment and extending from the second toner storage portion 47t to the first toner storage portion 28. Therefore, due to the inclination of the upstream surface 49a, the toner t scraped upward by the upstream surface 49a of the third opening 49 is moved to and stored in the first toner storage portion 28 via the collection portion 30a, which is a space formed above the interface of the toner t in the second opening 30.

[0250] The toner t scraped by the upstream surface 49a of the third opening 49 enters the collection section 30a before the upstream surface 49a exceeds the height of the collection section 30a and reaches the vicinity of the first seal member 32. The toner t is then collected in the first toner accommodating section 28 (see FIG. 14(c)). Therefore, the toner t is prevented from adhering to the surface 32a of the first seal member 32. In other words, the toner t can be prevented from entering between the first seal member 32 provided in the developing unit D and the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E.

[0251] For reference, a developing unit D1 without a collection portion 30a and a corresponding toner cartridge E1 are shown in Figure 25. The developing unit D1 has a second opening 930 formed by a developing frame 935, and the toner cartridge E1 has a third opening 949 formed by a frame 947a. The second opening 930 and the third opening 949 are substantially the same in size and shape. The frame 947a also forms a storage portion 947t for the toner t.

[0252] As shown in Figure 25(a), if the container frame 947a is rotated around the axis F1 when the communication portion 958 is clogged with toner t, the toner may not be able to pass through the communication portion 958 and may remain on the upstream surface 949a of the third opening 949 (see Figure 25(b)).

[0253] In this case, when the first shutter 937 and the second shutter 953 close their respective openings as shown in Figure 25(c), toner adheres to the surface of the seal member 932. When the toner cartridge E1 is removed from the developing unit D1, the toner ta adhering to the seal member 932 may leak out of the developing unit D1 or the toner cartridge E1 (see Figure 25(d)).

[0254] In contrast, according to this embodiment, the use of the recovery section 30a can prevent such leakage of the toner t. Specifically, the toner t moves in the k2 direction due to the rotation of the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E in the k2 direction. This prevents the toner t from leaking outside the frame 35 of the development unit D and the container frame 47a of the toner cartridge E.

[0255] Then, as shown in FIG. 14(d), after the second opening 30 and the third opening 49 no longer overlap each other, the third opening 49 is closed by the second shutter 53, and the second opening 30 is closed by the first shutter 37.

[0256] As described above, according to the embodiment, by configuring the second opening to be wider downstream in the shutter movement direction than the third opening when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the shutter movement direction, it is possible to prevent toner from leaking out of the opening when the opening is closed. This eliminates the need to provide a trapping portion (recess) in the seal member to trap toner. Therefore, it is possible to more effectively prevent toner (developer) leakage when replacing the toner cartridge with a simpler configuration without requiring an increase in the size of the seal member, etc.

[0257] Although the recovery section 30a has been described using this embodiment, the recovery section 30a is also provided in the developing unit D in the first and second embodiments (see FIGS. 3 and 13(a)).

[0258] ■(Other) In this embodiment, the collection section 30a is formed by making the second opening 30 and the third opening 49 different in size. However, this configuration is not limited to this. For example, in the communication state shown in FIG. 1(a), the second opening 30 and the third opening 49 may be positioned at offset positions to form the collection section 30a, while the communication section 58 may be formed in a partially overlapping region. In this case, the size and shape of each opening are not limited to a specific one. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, each opening is rectangular, but they may be other shapes than rectangular or may be different shapes as long as they can form an appropriate collection section.

[0259] In the above embodiment, the shape of the upstream surface 49a of the third opening 49 is inclined so that the edge of the upstream surface 49 facing the inside of the container is located downstream of the edge facing the outside of the container in the displacement direction of the third opening 49 relative to the second opening 30. However, the present invention is not limited to the above configuration. When the communication portion 58 is closed, the third opening 49 is displaced relative to the second opening 30. At this time, various shapes may be adopted as long as the upstream end of the third opening 49 in the displacement direction has a shape that generates a force that pushes toner from the third opening 49 side toward the second opening 30 side.

[0260] However, the recovery portion 30a is not essential for the developing unit D. That is, it is also possible to adopt a configuration without the recovery portion 30a as shown in Figure 25. In other words, in Figure 25, when the toner cartridge E1 is removed from the developing unit D1, the toner in the toner cartridge E1 and the developing unit D1 is usually consumed and there is little toner in the toner cartridge E1 or the developing unit D1. At this time, there is not much toner in the communicating portion 358 either, and even in a configuration without the recovery portion 30a, there is little possibility of toner leaking out when the toner cartridge E1 is removed.

[0261] However, the configuration in which the recovery section 30a is provided as in this embodiment is more preferable because it can more reliably prevent toner leakage with a simple configuration, and it can also prevent toner leakage when the toner cartridge E is removed while toner remains in the toner cartridge E.

[0262] In each embodiment described later, the developing unit D may also be provided with a recovery section like that of this embodiment.

[0263] Example 4 In this embodiment, the configuration related to the opening and closing of the shutter will be described in detail. Specifically, the shape of the second shutter 253 having the snap fit portion 271 and the configuration for guiding the second shutter 253 will be described in detail. Also, a drive transmission mechanism for improving the sealing performance provided at the end of the container frame (frame, cylindrical portion) 247g that constitutes the second toner storage portion 247t will be described. In addition, a transport configuration that can stably supply toner t in the toner cartridge E to the development unit D will be described.

[0264] The configurations disclosed as examples will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Here, components having the same functions and actions as those in the above-described examples will be given the same names as those in the above-described examples, and detailed descriptions will be omitted. The drawings are simplified, with some shapes and parts omitted. The dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative positions of the components described in the examples may be changed as appropriate depending on the configuration of the device and various conditions. Therefore, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the configurations disclosed in the examples.

[0265] From this embodiment onwards, a configuration will be described in which the developing unit D is integrated with the drum unit C to form a cartridge, and the developing unit D is part of the process cartridge (see Figures 29(a) and 29(b)). However, as in the above-described embodiment, the developing unit D may be a standalone cartridge, or the developing unit D may be fixed to the main body of the apparatus.

[0266] When the developing unit D and the drum unit C are integrated into a process cartridge, the process cartridge is the receiving device that receives the toner cartridge E. However, there are also cases where only the developing unit D, which is part of the process cartridge, is specifically called the receiving device.

[0267] The configuration of the image forming apparatus main body is substantially the same as in the other embodiments, so a description thereof will be omitted, and the description will be given starting from the vicinity of the receiving portion of the toner cartridge E of the developing unit D.

[0268] [Detailed explanation of the toner cartridge receiving area of ​​the development unit] The detailed configuration of the vicinity of the receiving portion of the toner cartridge E of the developing unit D according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 29, 30, and 31. Note that in this embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the developing unit D refers to the axial direction of the developing roller 224 of the developing unit D.

[0269] ■ (About the cartridge and unit configuration) Figure 29 is a perspective view of the developing unit D as seen from the receiving portion side of the toner cartridge E. Figure 29(a) shows a state in which the second opening (receiving port) 230 is closed (the first shutter 237 is in the closed position), and Figure 29(b) shows a state in which the second opening 230 is open (the first shutter 237 is in the open position). Figure 30 is an enlarged perspective view of the vicinity of the receiving portion of the toner cartridge E of the developing unit D. Also, Figure 30(a) shows a state in which the second opening 230 is closed (the first shutter 237 is in the closed position), and Figure 30(b) shows a state in which the second opening 230 is open (the first shutter 237 is in the open position).

[0270] 31 is a cross-sectional view showing the vicinity of the second opening 230 of the developing unit D. Also, FIG. 31(a) is a cross-sectional view seen from the driving side, and FIG. 31(b) is a cross-sectional view seen from the non-driving side.

[0271] As shown in Figure 29, the developing unit D has a second opening 230 and a first shutter 237 near the toner cartridge receiving portion. The second opening 230 and the first shutter 237 are provided in approximately the center of the developing unit D in the longitudinal direction. The position of the second opening 230 is not limited to a specific position as long as it faces a third opening (discharge port) 249, which will be described later. Naturally, the position of the first shutter 237 is also not limited to the center as long as it is located in a position that can cover the second opening.

[0272] As shown in FIG. 29(a), the second opening 230 is sealed by a first shutter 237 having a shape with a curvature that conforms to the outer peripheral surface of the toner cartridge E, which will be described later.

[0273] The first shutter 237 has a hole 237a formed outside the sealing range of the second opening 230. The hole 237a engages with a convex portion (container-side protrusion, open / close member moving portion) 245 (see FIG. 32) provided on the toner cartridge E, which will be described later. The first shutter 237 engages with and is guided by first shutter guide portions 234 provided on both longitudinal ends of the second opening 230. The first shutter 237 is configured to be slidable along the first shutter guide portions 234 between a closed position (FIG. 29(a)) where it closes the second opening 230 and an open position (FIG. 29(b)) where it opens the second opening 230.

[0274] Furthermore, a first lock arm (receiving device side locking member) 261 is provided between the first shutter guide portion 234 and the second opening 230 in the longitudinal direction of the developing unit D (see FIG. 30(b)). The first lock arm 261 is a mechanism that prevents the first shutter 237 from opening unintentionally. As shown in FIG. 31, the first lock arm 261 has a claw portion 261a. The claw portion 261a of this first lock arm 261 is located at the same position as the hole portion 237a of the first shutter 237 in the longitudinal direction of the developing unit D.

[0275] Then, a surface 261b of the claw portion 261a abuts against a surface 237b of the hole portion 237a of the first shutter 237. As a result, the claw portion 261a prevents the first shutter 237 from opening unintentionally. In addition, a first sealing seal 232 that seals the gap between the first shutter 237 and the second opening 230 is provided near the second opening 230 of the developing unit D. The first sealing seal 232 is attached so as to surround the periphery of the second opening 230.

[0276] At both longitudinal ends of the developing unit D, there are provided an insertion guide (non) 235d and an insertion guide (drive) 236d that guide the insertion trajectory of the toner cartridge E. The developing unit D also has an abutted portion (non) 235a and an abutted portion (drive) 236a that abut against an abutting portion (non) 242a and an abutting portion (drive) 243a (see FIG. 32) of the toner cartridge E.

[0277] At both ends of the developing unit D in the longitudinal direction, the side where a drive part such as a gear (e.g., first drive transmission part 238) is located is called the drive side. The side opposite the drive side is called the non-drive side. Unless otherwise specified, "(drive)" means that it is located on the drive side. "(non)" means that it is located on the non-drive side.

[0278] The toner cartridge E also includes a rotation guide portion (non-rotating) 235b and a rotation guide portion (driving) 236b that guide the rotational movement of the toner cartridge E when the first shutter 237 and a second shutter (opening / closing member) 253 (described later) are opened and closed.

[0279] The insertion guide portions 235 and 236 are guides (receiving device side guide portions) that guide the installation and removal of the toner cartridge E. The insertion guide portion (non) 235d and the insertion guide (drive) 236d are configured to have planes that are parallel to each other along the insertion direction f (Figure 29(a)) of the toner cartridge E. The abutted portion (non) 235a and the rotation guide portion (non) 235b are provided downstream of the insertion guide portion 235d (non) in the insertion direction f. The abutted portion 236a (drive) and the rotation guide (drive) 236b are provided downstream of the insertion guide (drive) 236d in the insertion direction f.

[0280] Furthermore, the developing unit D is provided with a first drive transmission part 238 at one end in the longitudinal direction of the developing unit D (FIG. 29(a)). This first drive transmission part 238 transmits drive to a second drive transmission part 248 (see FIG. 32) and second toner transport means 246 (see FIG. 35) via an idler gear (rotational force receiving part) 250 of the toner cartridge E, which will be described later. Furthermore, the first drive transmission part 238 is connected to the drive mechanism of the image forming apparatus main body inside the developing unit D by a gear (not shown) as a transmission means.

[0281] The first drive transmission portion 238 is a gear, and is a rotational force transmission portion that transmits a rotational force for driving the second toner transport member 246 to the toner cartridge E.

[0282] The idler gear 250 is a rotational force receiving portion that receives a rotational force from the outside of the toner cartridge E (i.e., the first drive transmission portion 238 of the development unit D). The second drive transmission portion 248 is a second rotational force receiving portion that receives a rotational force (drive force) from the idler gear 250.

[0283] 30, a lock release claw 262 and a shutter holding portion 263 for unlocking the second shutter 253 are provided near the second opening 230 of the developing unit D. The shutter holding portion 263 also has a lock hole 263a.

[0284] The unlocking claw 262 unlocks a second locking arm 270 that prevents the second shutter 253 of the toner cartridge E from opening unintentionally, as will be described later (see FIG. 34).

[0285] The shutter holding portion 263 comes into contact with a claw portion (first engaging portion) 271a or a protrusion (second engaging portion) 271b of a snap fit portion 271 provided on a second shutter 253 of the toner cartridge E (described later) (see FIG. 42). This prevents the second shutter 253 from rotating with a container (developer container, toner container) 247 (described later) when the second shutter 253 is closed.

[0286] The operation of the second shutter 253 when it is opened and closed will be described in detail later.

[0287] ■(Detailed description of toner cartridge) Next, the detailed structure of the toner cartridge E according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, and 37. FIG.

[0288] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of the toner cartridge E. FIG. 32(a) is a perspective view from the second drive transmission part 248, and FIG. 32(b) is a perspective view from the opposite side of the second drive transmission part 248. FIG. 33 is a view of the toner cartridge E with the third opening 249 open. FIG. 33(a) is an enlarged view of the vicinity of the third opening 249, and FIG. 33(b) is a cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the third opening 249 as viewed from the non-drive side of the toner cartridge E. FIG. 34 is a view of the second shutter 253. FIG. 35 is a view showing the relationship between the second toner conveying member 246 and the container 247. FIG. 35(a) is a view showing the shape of the sheet 246a of the second toner conveying member 246. FIG. 35(b) is a view showing a cross section of the agitator shaft seal 264. FIG. 35(c) is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the relationship between the second drive transmission part 248 and the agitator shaft seal 264. Figure 36 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the hole 252a of the second shutter guide portion (opening / closing guide) 252 taken from the front of the third opening 29 with the toner cartridge E and second shutter 253 assembled. Figure 36(a) shows the state in which the second shutter 253 is closed, and Figure 36(b) shows the state in which the second shutter 253 is open. In Figure 36, the second shutter guide portion 252 is represented by a dashed line to make the second lock arm 270 easier to understand. Figure 37 is a perspective view showing the state before the toner cartridge E is inserted into the development unit D.

[0289] As shown in Figures 32, 35(b), and 35(c), the toner cartridge E has a container 247, a third opening 249, a second shutter 253, a second seal member 254, a second drive transmission unit (gear) 248, an idler gear 250, and an agitator shaft seal 264. Here, the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E refers to the direction of the rotational axis of the second toner conveying member 246. The longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E also corresponds to the longitudinal direction of the container 247 and the second shutter 253. Furthermore, when the toner cartridge E is installed, the container 247 rotates. The longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E also corresponds to the direction of the rotational axis of the container 247. Furthermore, the second shutter 253 is configured to open and close the opening by rotating around the container 247. The longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E also corresponds to the direction of the rotational axis of the second shutter 253.

[0290] The container 247 has a hollow, generally cylindrical shape. That is, the frame (container frame 247g) that constitutes the main body (main part) of the container 247 has a generally cylindrical shape. When the container 247 is viewed as a cylinder, the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E is the generatrix direction of the cylinder, or the direction of the central axis of the cylinder.

[0291] The container frame 247g has a flat portion, but also has a curved surface portion (arc portion) of a substantially cylindrical shape (substantially arc shape) at least around the third opening 249 (see FIG. 33(b) and the like). The second shutter 253 rotates along this curved surface portion to open and close the third opening 249.

[0292] The container frame (cylindrical portion) 247g is a hollow body, and forms a toner storage portion (toner storage chamber) 247t that stores toner.

[0293] The container 247 has a convex portion (container-side protrusion, container-side convex portion) 245 on the outer periphery of the container frame 247g that engages with the hole 237a of the first shutter 237 described above. The container 247 (container frame 247g) also has an abutting surface 247c that abuts against the abutted surface 237b (see FIG. 30) of the first shutter 237 during the opening and closing process of the first shutter 237. The abutting surface 247c is formed by a step portion provided on the frame (container frame 247g) of the container 247, and is a surface that intersects with the rotation direction of the toner cartridge E (the rotation direction of the second shutter 252). It is an elongated surface that extends in the longitudinal direction (axial direction) of the toner cartridge E.

[0294] Although the details will be described later, the abutting surface 247c is an opening force applying portion (opening / closing member moving portion) that applies a force to the first shutter 237 to open the first shutter 237 and moves the first shutter 237 to the open position.

[0295] The abutment surface 247c is disposed near the tip of the second shutter 253 (shutter main body portion 253m) when the second shutter 253 is located at the closed position.

[0296] As shown in FIGS. 33(b) and 35, the second toner accommodating portion 247t is provided with a second toner conveying member 246 for conveying toner. One end of the second toner conveying member 246 is rotatably supported by the container 247, and the other end is rotatably supported by a second drive transmission unit 248 for driving the second toner conveying member 246. The agitation shaft seal 264 has a hollow cylindrical shape, and its outer diameter d1 is slightly larger than the inner diameter d2 of the container frame 247g. The inner diameter d3 of the agitation shaft seal 264 is formed slightly smaller than the outer diameter d4 of the cylindrical portion 248b of the second drive transmission unit 248. Furthermore, the width w1 of the agitation shaft seal 264 in its natural state is larger than the distance w2 between the seal pressing surface 248a of the second drive transmission unit 248 and the seal abutting surface 247f of the container frame 247 when the second drive transmission unit 248 is positioned in the container frame 247g.

[0297] The agitation shaft seal 264 is disposed in the container frame 247 g of the container 247 , sandwiched between the seal crushing surface 248 a of the second drive transmission part 248 and the seal abutting surface 247 a of the container 247 .

[0298] 32, an idler gear 250 is provided in the container 247 so as to be able to transmit drive force to a second drive transmission member 248. In this embodiment, the second drive transmission member 248 and the idler gear 250 have a helical gear shape and are provided in a direction such that the second drive transmission member 248 is brought closer to the inside in the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E (the direction of arrow r4 in FIG. 35(c)) during drive force transmission.

[0299] Furthermore, the second toner transport member 246 is composed of a transport shaft 246a and a flexible sheet member 246b. The sheet member 246b is provided with a slit for directing the toner contained in the second toner storage portion 247t of the container 247 toward the third opening 249 (see FIG. 35(a)). The detailed configuration will be described later.

[0300] 32(b), the third opening 249 is provided on the circumference of the container 247 (container frame 247g) at the center in the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E. However, the position of the third opening 249 is not limited to this as long as it is provided at a position facing the second opening 230 of the developing unit D.

[0301] 32 and 33(a), second shutter guide portions 252 for guiding the movement of the second shutter 253 are provided at both longitudinal ends of the third opening 249 of the toner cartridge E. Also, as shown in FIGS. 32(b) and 36, a hole 252a is provided in a part of the second shutter guide portion 252.

[0302] 34, the main body portion of the second shutter 253 (shutter main body portion 253m) has a shape with a curvature that conforms to the outer circumferential surface of the toner cartridge E. In other words, the second shutter 253 (shutter main body portion 253m) has a curved shape (substantially an arc shape) that conforms to the container 247.

[0303] That is, the container 247 (container frame 247g) has a curved (substantially cylindrical, substantially arc-shaped) surface around the third opening 249 (see FIG. 33(b)). The second shutter 253 can reciprocate along the curved surface (arc portion) of the container 247 provided around the third opening 249. That is, the second shutter 253 rotates (revolves) around the container 247. This allows the second shutter 253 to open and close the third opening 249.

[0304] In addition, the second shutter 253 has a second lock arm (arm portion) 270 on the longitudinal outside (axial direction) of the second sealing seal 254 described later, and snap fit portions (arm portions) 271 at both ends longitudinally outside the second lock arm 270.

[0305] The second lock arm 270 is disposed between the shutter main body 253m and the snap fit portion 271, and extends from the rear end side to the front end side of the shutter main body 253m. The second lock arm also has an elastic portion and is elastically deformable.

[0306] The two snap fit portions 271 are connected to both ends of the main body portion (shutter main body portion 253m) of the second shutter 253. Similarly, the two second lock arms 270 are also connected to both ends of the shutter main body portion 253m, respectively.

[0307] The shutter main body 253m is a portion (closing portion) that essentially closes the third opening 249. The snap fit portion 271 is configured to be movable relative to the shutter main body 253m by being deformed. Similarly, the second lock arm 270 is also configured to be movable relative to the shutter main body 253m by being deformed.

[0308] The snap fit portion 271 may be formed integrally with the shutter main body portion 253m using resin, or may be formed using a member (for example, a metal leaf spring) separate from the shutter main body portion 253m.

[0309] The second lock arm 270 has an abutting surface 270a that abuts against the unlocking claw 262 (see FIG. 30) of the developing unit D. The second lock arm 270 also has a claw portion 270b that fits into a hole 252a (see FIG. 32) of the second shutter guide portion 252 of the toner cartridge E.

[0310] The second lock arm 270 is also formed integrally with the shutter main body 253m from resin, but the second lock arm 270 may be formed by attaching a member (such as metal) different from the shutter main body 253m.

[0311] The abutted surface 270a of the second lock arm 270 is an inclined portion (inclined surface) that inclines toward the shutter main body portion 253m toward the tip side of the second lock arm 270. The claw portion 270b is a protrusion (convex portion) that protrudes at least toward the outside in the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E.

[0312] The snap fit portion 271 includes an arm portion 271c that elastically deforms in the longitudinal direction of the second shutter 253 and the toner cartridge E. The snap fit portion 271 also includes a claw portion (projection portion, convex portion, first engagement portion) 271a that is provided on the tip side of the arm portion 271c and protrudes in the outer diameter direction (radial outward) of the second shutter 253.

[0313] Although details will be described later, the claw portion 271a and the protrusion portion 271b are engagement portions (opening / closing member side engagement portions) for engaging with the developing unit D. The claw portion 271a (or the protrusion portion 271b) is connected to the shutter main body portion 253m by the arm portion 271c of the snap fit portion 271 (see FIG. 34).

[0314] The arm portion 271c of the snap fit portion 271 is a connecting portion for connecting the claw portion 271a and the protrusion portion 271b to the shutter main body portion 253.

[0315] Furthermore, the arm portion 271c of the snap-fit ​​portion 271 is a support portion for supporting the engaging portion (the claw portion 271a and the protrusion portion 271b). The arm portion 271c has an elastic portion that is elastically deformable. That is, the arm portion 271c can be elastically deformed.

[0316] The snap fit portion 271 (arm portion 271c) extends from the rear end side of the shutter main body portion 253m toward the front end side. Here, the front end side of the shutter main body portion 253m corresponds to the downstream side in the rotation direction (movement direction) in which the second shutter 253 rotates and moves from the open position to the closed position. On the other hand, the rear end side of the shutter main body portion 253m corresponds to the upstream side in the rotation direction.

[0317] The claw portion 271a protrudes at least in the outer diameter direction of the container 247 (outer diameter direction of the second shutter 253). Here, the outer diameter direction of the second shutter 253 is the outer diameter direction of the container 247 and also the outer side in the rotation radius direction of the rotation trajectory of the second shutter 253.

[0318] The outer diameter direction is the side facing the outside of container 247 (the outside of container 247), and is the side away from container 247 or the rotation axis (center axis) of container 247. Alternatively, the outer diameter direction is the side away from second toner conveying member 246 or the rotation axis of second toner conveying member 246.

[0319] Moreover, the protrusion 271b is a protrusion that protrudes at least in the circumferential direction (rotation direction of the second shutter 253) of the container 247. More specifically, in the rotation direction (opening direction) in which the second shutter 253 moves from the closed position to the open position relative to the container 247, the protrusion 271b protrudes toward the downstream side.

[0320] That is, the second shutter 253 has a claw portion (first engaging portion) 271a and a protrusion portion (second engaging portion) 271b as engaging portions, and the claw portion 271a and the protrusion portion 271b protrude in different directions (directions intersecting each other).

[0321] The snap-fit ​​portion 271 (arm portion 271c) becomes wider as it approaches the tip end. That is, a first regulated surface 271d, a second regulated surface 271e, and a third regulated surface 271f are provided in the snap-fit ​​portion 271 at the longitudinal end side of the second shutter 253. The first regulated surface 271d is an inclined surface (inclined portion) that inclines outward in the longitudinal direction toward the tip end side of the arm portion 271c. The second and third regulated surfaces 271e and 271f are surfaces that are approximately parallel to the direction in which the arm portion 271c extends. The distance between the regulating surface 271e and the regulating surface 271f is greater than the width of the rear end side (base side) of the arm portion 271c.

[0322] Here, the first and second regulated surfaces 271d and 271e come into contact with a first regulated surface 247d (FIG. 33(a)) of the container 247, which will be described later. The third regulated surface 271f comes into contact with a second regulated surface 247e (FIG. 33(a)) of the container 247.

[0323] The second shutter 253 engages with a second shutter guide portion (opening / closing guide) 252 of the toner cartridge E. The second shutter 253 is configured to be slidable along the circumferential direction of the container 247 between a state in which the third opening 249 is closed along the outer peripheral surface of the toner cartridge E (FIG. 32(a)) and a state in which the third opening 249 is opened (FIG. 32(b)).

[0324] 36, in the state where the third opening 249 is closed, the claw portion 270b of the second lock arm 270 engages (fits) with the hole portion 252a provided in the second shutter guide portion 252 of the toner cartridge E. Also, a surface 270c of the claw portion 270b abuts against a surface 252b of the hole portion 252a of the second shutter guide portion 252. As a result, the movement of the second shutter 253 relative to the container 247 is restricted, and the second shutter 253 is prevented from opening unintentionally.

[0325] The claw portion 270b is a locking portion that locks the second shutter 253 in the closed position. The claw portion 270b is connected to the shutter main body portion 253m by the second locking arm 270. In other words, the second locking arm 270 (more strictly speaking, the rear end side of the second locking arm 270 relative to the claw portion 270b) is a connecting portion that connects the claw portion 270b to the shutter main body portion 253m and also a supporting portion that supports the claw portion 270b.

[0326] As shown in Figure 32, toner cartridge E has an insertion guided portion (non-insertion guided portion) 242 and an insertion guided portion (drive) 243 at both ends in the longitudinal direction. Insertion guided portion (non-insertion guided portion) 242 and insertion guided portion (drive) 243 are guided by insertion guide (non-insertion guide) 235d and insertion guide (drive) 236d of development unit D, respectively (see Figure 37). Insertion guided portions 242 and 243 are toner cartridge side guides.

[0327] 32 and 31, a brief description will be given of the insertion guide (non-) 235d and insertion guide (drive) 236d of the development unit D, the insertion guided portion (non-) 242 of the toner cartridge E, the surrounding portion of the insertion guided portion (drive) 243, and similar portions of the grip member 244. Note that detailed operations, actions, and functions of these are substantially the same as those in the third embodiment, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0328] The insertion guided portion (non) 242 includes an abutting portion (non) 242a and a rotation guided portion (non) 242b. The abutting portion (non) 242a abuts against the abutted portion (non) 235a of the development unit D when the toner cartridge E is inserted. The periphery of the abutting portion (non) 242a forms a rotation guided portion (rotation guide on the toner cartridge side) with a curved shape (approximately arc shape). The rotation guided portion slides against the rotation guide portion 235b of the insertion guide (non) 235d when the first shutter 237 and the second shutter 253 are opened or closed, thereby guiding the rotational movement of the toner cartridge E.

[0329] The insertion guided portion (drive) 243 also includes an abutting portion (drive) 243a, which abuts against the abutted portion (drive) 236a of the development unit D when the toner cartridge E is inserted.

[0330] In addition, the insertion guided portion (non-guided) 242 is provided with regulating portions 242c1 and 242c2 as posture regulating portions for regulating the insertion posture (removal posture) of the toner cartridge E during insertion. These regulating portions 242c1 and 242c2 also serve as insertion direction regulating portions (mounting direction regulating portion, removal direction regulating portion, removal direction regulating portion) that regulate the insertion direction (mounting direction) and removal direction (removal direction) of the toner cartridge E.

[0331] The container 247 is also provided with a grip member 244 as a handle that the user can grasp when installing the toner cartridge E. The grip member 244 has a U-shape and is fixed to both ends of the container 247 in the longitudinal direction.

[0332] More specifically, the gripping member 244 has fixed portions 244a at both ends of an operating portion 244b that the user grasps and operates. The fixed portions 244a have a U-shape and are fixed to the second toner storage container 247 at both ends in the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E. However, the shape of the gripping member 244 is not limited to this as long as it can be gripped by the user.

[0333] [Shutter opening and closing operation when installing or removing a toner cartridge into a development unit] Next, the opening operation of the first shutter 237 of the developing unit D and the second shutter 253 of the toner cartridge E will be described with reference to FIG. 28 and FIGS. 37 to 43. FIG.

[0334] FIG. 28 illustrates the sequential movements of the second shutter 253 until the third opening 249 is exposed and the positional relationship near the snap-fit ​​portion 271. FIGS. 28(a) and 28(d) are enlarged views of the periphery of the second shutter 253, showing the state in which the toner cartridge E is being inserted into the developing unit D. FIG. 28(a) is a front view of the second shutter 253, and FIG. 28(d) is a cross-sectional view of the third opening 249 as viewed from the non-drive side. FIG. 28(b) is an enlarged view of the periphery of the second shutter 253, showing the state in which the toner cartridge E is further rotated from the state shown in FIG. 28(a) in the direction in which the third opening 249 is exposed, and the leading end surface 253c of the second shutter 253 butts against the collision surface 239 of the developing unit D. FIGS. 28(b) and 28(e) are front views of the second shutter 253, and FIG. 28(e) is a cross-sectional view of the third opening 249 as viewed from the non-drive side. Figures 28(c) and 28(f) are enlarged views of the periphery of second shutter 253, showing the state in which Figure 28(b) has been further rotated so that second opening 230 and third opening 249 are in communication and the installation of toner cartridge E is complete. Figure 28(c) is a view of second shutter 253 as seen from the front, and Figure 28(f) is a cross-sectional view of third opening 249 as seen from the non-drive side.

[0335] Figure 38(a) is a cross-sectional view of the first lock arm 261 of the developing unit D as seen from the non-drive side immediately before the toner cartridge E is inserted into the developing unit D. Figures 38(b) and 38(c) are cross-sectional views of the first lock arm 261 of the developing unit D as seen from the non-drive side when the toner cartridge E has been inserted into the developing unit D.

[0336] Figure 39 is a cross-sectional view of the hole 252a of the second shutter guide portion 252 cut from the front of the second shutter 253, illustrating the movement of the second lock arm 270 of the second shutter 253 when the toner cartridge E is inserted into the developing unit D. Figure 39(a) is a view showing the state immediately after the toner cartridge E has been inserted into the developing unit D. Figure 39(b) is a view showing the state after the toner cartridge E has been inserted into the developing unit D and has been further rotated in a direction that exposes the third opening 249.

[0337] FIG. 40 is a diagram specifically illustrating the positional relationship in the vicinity of the snap-fit ​​portion 271 of the second shutter 253 until the third opening 249 is exposed. FIG. 40(a) is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the snap-fit ​​portion 270 and the shutter holder 263 in the states of FIGS. 28(b) and 28(e). FIG. 40(c) is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the snap-fit ​​portion 270 and the shutter holder 263 in the states of FIGS. 28(c) and 28(f). FIG. 40(b) is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the snap-fit ​​portion 270 and the shutter holder 263 at a timing between FIGS. 40(a) and 40(c). FIG. 40(d) is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the snap-fit ​​portion 270 and the first restricting portion 247d of the container 247 in the state of FIG. 40(a). FIG. 40(e) is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the snap-fit ​​portion 270 and the first restricting portion 247d of the container 247 in the state of FIG. 40(b). FIG. 40(f) is a diagram showing the relationship between the snap fit portion 270 and the first restricting portion 247d of the container 247 in the state of FIG. 40(c).

[0338] 28(c) and 28(f). FIG. 42 is a diagram showing the vicinity of the snap fit portion 271 of the second shutter 253 when the tip surface 253c of the second shutter 253 abuts against the collision surface 239 of the developing unit D, and the movement of the second shutter 253 is restricted by the developing unit D. FIG. 42(a) is a diagram showing the longitudinal relationship between the snap fit portion 271 of the second shutter 253 and the lock holding portion 263 of the developing unit D. FIG. 42(b) is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the snap fit portion 271 of the second shutter 253 and the lock holding portion 263 of the developing unit D in the rotational direction of the toner cartridge E.

[0339] Figure 43 is a view seen from the drive side showing the positional relationship between the first drive transmission part 238 and the idler gear 250 of the developing unit D during the installation process of the toner cartridge E. Figure 43(a) shows the second shutter 253 in a closed state when the toner cartridge E is being inserted, and Figure 43(b) shows the second shutter 253 in an open state after the installation of the toner cartridge E is complete.

[0340] Figure 44 is a cross-sectional view seen from the driving side showing the vicinity of second opening 230 and third opening 249 in the state of Figure 43(b). Note that in Figure 39, Figures 40(a), 40(b), and 42, other parts that are less relevant to the explanation of the operation of second lock arm 270 and snap fit portion 271 are simplified.

[0341] In this embodiment, the process of inserting the toner cartridge E into the developing unit D is the same as in the previously described embodiment 1. Therefore, in this embodiment, the opening and closing operations of the first shutter 237 and the second shutter 253 after the toner cartridge E has been positioned in the developing unit D will be described in detail.

[0342] ■ (Operation of the first and second lock arms) First, the state of the first lock arm 261 of the developing unit D and the second lock arm 270 of the toner cartridge E when the toner cartridge E is positioned in the developing unit D will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0343] As shown in FIGS. 37 and 38, when the toner cartridge E is positioned in the developing unit D, the protrusion 245 of the container 247 engages with the hole 237a of the first shutter 237.

[0344] At this time, the surface 245c of the protrusion 245 of the container 247 abuts against the surface 261c of the first lock arm 261 of the developing unit D. As a result, the first lock arm 261 receives a force F11 from the protrusion 245 of the container 247 and is elastically deformed in the direction of arrow r1. Then, the claw portion 261a of the first lock arm 261 falls off (disengages) from the hole 237a of the first shutter 237. As a result, the first shutter 237 is released from the restriction in the direction of arrow e caused by the abutment between the surface 237a2 of the hole 237a and the surface 261b of the first lock arm 261, and becomes movable relative to the second opening 230.

[0345] The protrusion 245 is an unlocking portion that comes into contact with (engages with) the hole 237a and the first lock arm 261 to unlock the first shutter 237 from a locked state.

[0346] When the toner cartridge E is inserted into the developing unit D, the insertion posture and insertion direction are regulated so that the protrusion 245 engages (enters) the hole 237a and contacts the first lock arm 261. In other words, the posture and insertion direction of the toner cartridge E relative to the developing unit D are regulated by the insertion guided portion (non-) 242 and the insertion guide (non-) 235d.

[0347] When the toner cartridge E is removed from the developing unit D, the protrusion 245 moves away from the first locking arm 261. As a result, the elastic deformation of the first locking arm 261 is released, and the first locking arm 261 engages with the hole 237a, thereby locking the first shutter 237 again.

[0348] After inserting the toner cartridge E into the developing unit D, when the toner cartridge E is rotated in the direction of arrow e, as shown in FIG. 39(b), the tip surface 253c (see FIG. 34) of the second shutter 253 abuts against the collision surface 239 (see FIG. 30) of the developing unit D. This restricts the rotation of the second shutter 253 in the direction of arrow e. At this time, as shown in FIG. 39, the unlocking claw 262 of the developing unit D abuts against the abutting surface 270a of the second locking arm 270 of the second shutter 253, and the second locking arm 270 receives a force F12 from the unlocking claw (unlocking portion) 262. A component force F12x of the force F12 elastically deforms the second locking arm 270 in the direction of arrow r2 (the longitudinal inward direction of the toner cartridge E). As a result, the claw portion 270b of the second locking arm 270 disengages from the hole 252a of the second shutter guide portion 252. In other words, the force that the abutting surface 270a receives from the unlocking claw 362 moves the claw portion 270b from a lock position (FIG. 39(a)) where the second shutter 253 is locked in the closed position to an unlock position (FIG. 39(b)) where the lock is released. The abutting surface 270a is an unlocking force receiving portion that receives a force that moves the claw portion 270b (locking portion) from the developing unit D when the toner cartridge E rotates when installed.

[0349] The abutment surface 270a is an inclined portion (inclined surface) that inclines inward in the longitudinal direction as it approaches the tip end side of the second shutter 253 (the tip end side of the second lock arm 270). Because the abutment surface 270a is inclined, the force (F12) received from the unlocking claw 262 has a component (F12x) that acts inward in the longitudinal direction.

[0350] When the claw portion 270b is moved to the unlock position by F12x, the restriction in the direction of arrow e caused by the claw portion 270b of the second lock arm 270 abutting against the surface 252b of the hole portion 252a of the second shutter guide portion 252 is released. Therefore, the second shutter 253 becomes movable in the direction of arrow e relative to the third opening 249 of the container 247. More specifically, when the tip surface 253c of the second shutter 253 receives a force from the collision surface (force application portion) 239 of the developing unit D, the second shutter 253 rotates relative to the container 247 and rotates from the closed position to the open position.

[0351] The tip surface 235c of the second shutter 253 is an opening force receiving portion for receiving a force from the outside of the toner cartridge E (that is, the developing unit D) for moving the second shutter 253 from the closed position to the open position.

[0352] The second lock arm 270 (claw portion 270b) is substantially covered by the second shutter guide portion 252, making it difficult for a user to accidentally unlock the second lock arm 270. The second shutter guide portion 252 also serves as a cover portion that covers the second lock arm 270 (claw portion 270b).

[0353] When the toner cartridge E is attached to the developing unit D, the unlocking claw 662 of the developing unit D enters between the second shutter guide portion 252 and the container frame 247g. The unlocking claw 662 is engaged with the second shutter guide portion 252.

[0354] ■ (Relationship between the shutter holding part and the snap-fit ​​part of the toner cartridge) Next, the state in which the toner cartridge E is positioned in the developing unit D will be described in detail.

[0355] When the tip surface 253c and the collision surface 239 are in contact with each other, the claw portion 271a of the snap fit portion 271 is positioned outside the shutter holding portion 263 of the developing unit D in the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E (see FIG. 42(a)).

[0356] At this time, the claw portion 271a of the snap fit portion 271 is positioned relative to the lock hole 263a of the shutter holding portion 263 of the developing unit D as shown in Figure 42(b). That is, in the rotation direction of the toner cartridge E when opening the third opening 249 (the direction of arrow e in Figure 42(b)), the claw portion 271a is located downstream of the lock hole 263a.

[0357] ■ (Operation of the first and second shutters) Next, the operations of the first shutter 237 and the second shutter 253 when the toner cartridge E is further rotated will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0358] As the toner cartridge E continues to rotate, the abutted surface 237b (see FIG. 30) of the first shutter 237 abuts against the abutting surface 247c (see FIGS. 32 and 38) of the container 247. As shown in FIG. 28(e), the first shutter 237 is pushed by the container 247 and receives a force F13 in the rotation direction of the toner cartridge E. At this time, as described above, the first lock arm 261 that restricted the movement of the first shutter 237 is unlocked from the developing unit D. As a result, the first shutter 237 rotates integrally with the container 247 in the direction that opens the second opening 230 (the direction of arrow e in FIG. 28). The first shutter 237 then moves in the order of FIG. 28(d) → FIG. 28(e) → FIG. 28(f).

[0359] Also, at this time, as shown in FIG. 39(b), the tip surface 253c of the second shutter 253 abuts against the collision surface 239 of the developing unit D. Therefore, when the container 247 rotates, the container 247 moves relative to the second shutter 253. At the same time, as shown in FIG. 40(d), the first regulated surface 271d of the snap-fit ​​portion 271 of the second shutter 253 abuts against a point 247h of the first regulating surface 247d of the container 247 and receives a force F14 (a force directed inward in the longitudinal direction). Then, the arm portion 271c of the snap-fit ​​portion 271 elastically deforms inward in the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E (a direction approaching the third opening 249, the direction of arrow r3 in FIGS. 28 and 40(d)).

[0360] As the rotation of the container 247 continues, the second regulated surface 271e of the snap-fit ​​portion 271 of the second shutter 253 comes into contact with the first regulated surface 247d of the container 247 (FIG. 40(d) → FIG. 40(e)). FIGS. 28(c), 40(d), and 40(e) are views showing a state in which the second regulated surface 271e of the snap-fit ​​portion 271 comes into contact with the first regulated surface 247d of the container 247. In this state, the claw portion 271a and the protrusion 271b of the snap-fit ​​portion 271 are positioned so as to overlap with the shutter holding portion 263 in the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E. This is a state in which the claw portion 271a and the protrusion 271b are positioned in the engagement position.

[0361] The claw portion 271a of the snap fit portion 271 is located downstream (in the direction of arrow e) relative to the shutter holding portion 263 of the developing unit D in the rotation direction of the toner cartridge E when opening the third opening 249 (see Figures 40(c) and 42(b)). The snap fit portion 271 of the second shutter 253 elastically deforms (operates) in the order of Figures 28(a) → 28(b) → 28(c).

[0362] The first regulating surface 247d is a moving portion (engagement position moving portion) that moves the claw portion 271a and the protrusion portion 271b inward in the longitudinal direction (inward in the axial direction). The first regulating surface 247d biases the first regulated surface 271d when the second shutter 253 moves to the open position (when the second shutter 253 rotates to install the toner cartridge E). The force applied to the first regulated surface 271d by the first regulating surface 247d moves the claw portion 271a to an engagement position for forming the shutter holding portion 263, and also moves the protrusion portion 271b to an engagement position for engaging with the lock hole 263a.

[0363] The first regulating surface 247d is a guide portion that guides the claw portion 271a and the protrusion portion 271b from the retracted position to the engagement position via the first regulated surface 271d. The first regulating surface 247d is a biasing portion (pressing portion) that biases and presses the claw portion 271a and the protrusion portion 271b toward the engagement position via the first regulated surface 271d.

[0364] Furthermore, when the second shutter 253 is in the open position, the first regulating surface 247d biases the second regulated surface 271e inward in the longitudinal direction. This causes the first regulating surface 247d to hold the engaging portions (the claw portions 271a and the protrusion portions 271b) in the engaged position. The first regulating surface 247d is an engagement position holding portion.

[0365] The first regulating surface 247d comes into contact with the first regulated surface and the second regulated surface 271d, 271e provided on the support portion (arm portion 271c) that supports the engaging portion (claw portion 271a, protrusion portion 271b), and biases the engaging portion via the arm portion 271c.

[0366] However, the first restricting surface 247d may directly contact the engaging portions (the claw portions 271a and the protrusion portions 271b) to bias the engaging portions.

[0367] The first restriction surface 247d allows the engaging portions (claw portions 271a, 271b) of the second shutter 253 to move 2.3 mm or more inward in the axial direction. In other words, the moving distance (movement amount) of the engaging portions when they move from the retracted position to the engaging position is 2.3 mm or more when measured along the axial direction (longitudinal direction).

[0368] ■ (Operation until the second opening and the third opening communicate with each other) 28(e) and 28(f), when the toner cartridge E is rotated in the direction of arrow e, the first shutter 237 rotates integrally with the container 247 in the direction (arrow e) that opens the second opening 230. The container 247 also moves relative to the second shutter 253. At this time, the toner cartridge E rotates in the direction of arrow e while the second shutter guide portion 252 of the container 247 engages with the first shutter guide portion 234, roughly restricting the movement of the container 247 in the radial direction of the cylindrical shape. Then, as shown in FIG. 28(f), the opening of the second opening 230 and the third opening 249 is completed with the third opening 249 and the second opening 230 communicating with each other.

[0369] At this time, the rotation guide portion 235b engages with the curved surface portions (rotation guided portions) at both ends of the insertion guide 242. This restricts the movement of the toner cartridge E while the second opening 230 and the third opening 249 are open. The detailed configuration is the same as in the first embodiment, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0370] [Drive transmission from the development unit to the toner cartridge] The force that occurs when the drive force is transmitted from the developing unit D to the toner cartridge E will be described below.

[0371] ■ (Drive transmission configuration from development unit to toner cartridge) 43 and 44, a drive force transmission configuration from the developing unit D to the toner cartridge E will be described. Drive force is transmitted from the developing unit D to the toner cartridge E by an idler gear 250 and a first drive force transmission portion 238 engaging with each other.

[0372] Here, while the toner cartridge E is being installed in the development unit D, the idler gear 250 is not connected to the first drive transmission part 238, and the idler gear 250 is connected only to the second drive transmission part 248 (Figure 43(a)).

[0373] Furthermore, during the installation process of the toner cartridge E, the idler gear 250 is positioned upstream of the first drive transmission part 238 in the installation rotation direction of the toner cartridge E (the direction of arrow e in Figure 43). Furthermore, as the toner cartridge E is rotated in the installation direction (the direction of arrow e in Figure 43) during installation, the idler gear 250 approaches the first drive transmission part 238. Then, when the toner cartridge E is completely installed in the developing unit D, the idler gear 250 is configured to be connected (engaged) with the first drive transmission part 238. Then, drive transmission from the developing unit D to the second toner transport member 246 becomes possible (Figure 43(b)). In other words, the idler gear 250 is able to receive a rotational force due to the rotation of the toner cartridge E.

[0374] Furthermore, the second drive transmission part 248 and the idler gear 250 of this embodiment employ a helical gear shape. Therefore, the thrust force generated during drive transmission causes the second drive transmission part 248 to move inward in the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E (the direction of arrow r4 in Figure 35(c)). Therefore, during drive transmission, the position of the second drive transmission part 248 is determined by the positioning surface 248c of the second drive transmission part 248 abutting against the surface 247g1 of the container frame 247g.

[0375] At this time, the agitator shaft seal 264 is sandwiched between the seal abutment surface 247f of the container 247 and the seal crushing surface 248a of the second drive transmission part 248. As a result, the agitator shaft seal 264 is compressed in the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E. The compressed agitator shaft seal 264 can improve the airtightness of the space between the cylindrical part 248b of the second drive transmission part 248 and the container frame 247g of the container 247. As a result, it is possible to prevent toner inside the container 247 from leaking to the outside from the vicinity of the second drive transmission part 248.

[0376] Here, a moment is generated in the toner cartridge E that rotates the entire toner cartridge E due to an external force (i.e., a rotational force received by the idler gear 250) received when the drive force is transmitted from the first drive transmission part 238 of the developing unit D. In this embodiment, the first drive transmission part 238 of the developing unit D rotates in the direction of arrow q in FIG. 43(b). A moment M1 is generated in the toner cartridge E due to an external force F16 received when the drive force is transmitted from the first drive transmission part 238 of the developing unit D. The direction of this generated moment M1 is the same as the rotation direction (arrow e) of the container 247 when the third opening 249 is opened.

[0377] In other words, the rotation direction (arrow u) of the idler gear 250 is the same as the rotation direction (arrow e) of the container 247 when the third opening 249 of the toner cartridge E is opened. In other words, the rotation direction (arrow u) of the idler gear is the same as the rotation direction (arrow e) of the second shutter when it rotates from the open position to the closed position relative to the container 247.

[0378] By adopting the configuration of this embodiment, when drive is transmitted from the development unit D to the toner cartridge E to eject toner, a force acts on the toner cartridge E to rotate it in the direction (arrow e) that opens the third opening 249 relative to the development unit D.

[0379] This prevents the first shutter 237 and the second shutter 253 from closing while toner is being discharged from the toner cartridge E. Furthermore, with this configuration, even if the third opening 249 of the toner cartridge E is not fully exposed, the moment M1 acting on the toner cartridge E can rotate the entire toner cartridge E in the direction of the arrow e, thereby completely exposing the third opening 249.

[0380] At this time, the rotation direction of the second drive transmission part 248 and the second toner conveying member 246 is such that, from the viewpoint of toner conveyance, the toner is lifted from below the third opening 249 in the direction of gravity (arrow G direction) to above (arrow d direction in Figure 44).

[0381] ■ (Transportation of toner from the toner cartridge to the developing unit) Next, the toner transport configuration from the toner cartridge E to the developing unit D will be described with reference to Figure 45. Figure 45(a) is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the relationship between the shape of sheet member 246b of second toner transport member 246 and container 247. Figure 45(b) is a cross-sectional view showing the relationship between the shape of sheet member 246b of second toner transport member 246 in the vicinity of third opening 249 and container 247. Figure 45(c) is an enlarged view of a portion of slit-shaped sheet member 246b. Figure 45(d) is a cross-sectional view showing the movement of second toner transport member 246 when it rotates.

[0382] The toner in the toner cartridge E is transported to the developing unit D by the second transport member 246 through the third opening 249 and the second opening 230, which are connected to each other.

[0383] The second conveying member 246 rotates inside the toner cartridge E by the driving force received through the first drive transmission portion 238 of the developing unit D, the idler gear 250 and the second drive transmission portion 248 .

[0384] As mentioned above, the rotation direction of second conveying member 246 is the direction in which toner is lifted from bottom to top of third opening 249 in the direction of gravity G (the direction of arrow d in Figure 45(b)). At this time, sheet member 246b of second toner conveying member 246 has a slit shape in the longitudinal direction of toner cartridge E (Figure 45(a)). The slit shape of sheet member 246b of second toner conveying member 246 is approximately symmetrical on the drive side and non-drive side in the longitudinal direction with respect to the center of third opening 249.

[0385] The slits are shaped so that the cut direction is inclined inward in the longitudinal direction of the sheet member 246b from the center in the lateral direction of the sheet member 246b to the tip. More specifically, as shown in Figure 45(a), the sheet member 246b is configured so that a point 246b2 at the tip is located longitudinally inward of a point 246b1 at the center in the lateral direction.

[0386] Furthermore, the shape of the shorter side of sheet member 246b in the longitudinal direction is configured to fit the inner shape of container 247 and slightly intrude into container 247. As shown in Figures 45(a) and 45(b), the width of sheet member 246b from the rotation center S of second toner conveying member 246 to its shorter-side ends (246b3, 246b4) is defined as w3. Similarly, the distance from the rotation center S of second toner conveying member 246 of container 247 to point 247h1 on the inner wall surface of container 247 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is defined as w5. In this case, width w3 is configured to be larger than w5.

[0387] Furthermore, the width from the rotation center S of second toner conveying member 246 of sheet member 246b to the short-side end 246b7 is defined as w4. Also, the distance from the rotation center S of second toner conveying member 246 of container 247 to point 247h2 on the inner wall surface of container 247 in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is defined as w6. In this case, width w4 is configured to be larger than w6.

[0388] By configuring the second toner conveyance member 246 as described above, the second conveyance member 246 contacts the toner inside the container 247 or the inner wall of the container 247. Then, with respect to the tip point 246b3 of the sheet member 246b, the tip point 246b4 located inward in the longitudinal direction is more deformed in the direction of arrow d (see Fig. 45). The reason therefor will be described below using Fig. 45(c) of the sheet member 246b. In the short direction of the sheet member 246b, the tip points of the sheet member 246b are defined as point 246b3 and point 246b4. Further, point 246b4 is located closer to the third opening 249 (see Fig. 45(a)) in the longitudinal direction than point 246b3. When a downward force in the direction perpendicular to the paper surface is applied to point 246b3 of the sheet member 246b, the closest support point receiving the force is defined as support point 246b5, and the distance between point 246b3 and support point 246b5 is defined as r10. Further, when a force is applied to point 246b4 of the sheet member 246b, the closest support point receiving the force is defined as support point 246b6, and the distance between point 246b4 and support point 246b6 is defined as r11. At this time, point 246b3 is an arbitrary point within the range of region w30 where point 246b3 and support point 246b5 coincide in the longitudinal direction of the tip sheet member 246b. Further, point 246b4 is an arbitrary point within the range of region w30 where point 246b4 and support point 246b6 do not coincide in the longitudinal direction of the tip sheet member 246b.

[0389] Then, since the sheet member 246b has a shape in which the direction of the cut inclines inward in the longitudinal direction of the sheet member 246b from the center in the short direction of the sheet member 246b to the tip, the relationship r10 < r11 holds. Therefore, when the same force acts on point 246b3 and point 246b4, point 246b4 with a longer distance to the support point is deformed (bent) more. As a result, the sheet member 246b of the second conveyance member 246 can convey the toner in the direction of the longitudinal center (the direction of the third opening 249). Further, by configuring the second conveyance member 246 to lift the toner from below in the direction of gravity upward, the amount of toner remaining in the toner cartridge E that cannot be completely discharged is reduced.

[0390] Furthermore, near the third opening 249 in the longitudinal direction of the sheet member 246b, no slit shape is provided in an area wider in the longitudinal direction than the third opening 249. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 45(a), the longitudinal width w7 of the sheet member 246b near the third opening 249 is larger than the longitudinal width w8 of the third opening 249. This prevents the sheet member 246b from entering from the third opening 249 toward the second opening 230 (see Fig. 45(b)).

[0391] As a result, the toner near the third opening 249 is appropriately worn away by the inner wall of the container 247. This allows the sheet member 246b to push the toner into the developing unit D, and prevents the toner in the developing unit D from agglomerating and deteriorating.

[0392] In this example, the angle θ2 of the slit shape of the sheet member 246b (see FIG. 45(a)) was inclined at about 70 degrees with respect to the longitudinal direction of the sheet member 246b. The shorter side of the slit was intruded into the inner shape of the container 247 by about 1.5 mm (w3-w5 = about 1.5 mm, w4-w6 = about 1.5 mm).

[0393] As long as the toner in the toner cartridge E can be stably transported into the developing unit D, the shape of the sheet member 246b is not limited.

[0394] By configuring the second conveying member 246 in this manner, it is possible to stably discharge toner into the developing unit D even if the opening for discharging toner is narrow. Furthermore, by making the longitudinal width of the third opening 249 a dimension that corresponds to a portion of the center, the size of the first seal member 232 can be reduced. As a result, costs can be reduced by reducing the amount of material required for the seal. Furthermore, by making the third opening 249 smaller, it is possible to reduce toner leakage during the installation and removal of the toner cartridge E.

[0395] In this embodiment, the container 247 is substantially cylindrical, but as can be seen from FIG. 45(a), w5>w6, and the diameter (inner and outer diameters) of the container 247 varies depending on the position. In other words, the diameter at the longitudinal end of the container 247 is larger than the diameter at the center of the container 247 (i.e., around and near the third opening 249). Since the second shutter 253 is attached to the center of the container 247, the diameter of the container 247 is made smaller to ensure space for that. On the other hand, the diameter at the end of the container 247 is made larger to increase the volume for accommodating toner.

[0396] As with the container 247, the diameter of the second conveying member 246 (sheet member 246b) varies depending on the position. As described above, the diameter of the second conveying member 246 at the axial end is larger than the diameter of the central portion (near the third opening 249) of the second conveying member 246.

[0397] ■ (Shutter closing operation) Next, the closing operation of the first shutter 237 of the developing unit D and the second shutter 253 of the toner cartridge E will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0398] Figure 46 shows the vicinity of the convex portion 245 of the container 247 when the second shutter 253 of the toner cartridge E is closed, where Figure 46(a) is a cross-sectional view seen from the non-drive side, and Figure 46(b) is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the convex portion 245 of the container 247.

[0399] Figure 47 is a diagram showing the state of the snap fit portion 271 of the second shutter 253 when the second shutter 253 of the toner cartridge E is closed. Figure 47(a) is an enlarged view showing the longitudinal relationship between the snap fit portion 271 of the second shutter 253 and the shutter holding portion 263. Figure 47(b) is a cross-sectional view seen from the non-drive side showing the positional relationship between the snap fit portion 271 of the second shutter 253 and the shutter holding portion 263 in the rotation direction of the toner cartridge E. Figure 47(c) is an enlarged view of the protrusion 71b of the snap fit portion 271 of the second shutter 253 and the lock hole of the shutter holding portion 263.

[0400] Figure 48 is a diagram showing the process of closing the second shutter 253 of the toner cartridge E. Figure 48(a) is a diagram showing the vicinity of the snap fit portion 271 when the second shutter 253 of the toner cartridge E is open. Also, Figure 48(b) is a diagram showing the vicinity of the snap fit portion 271 when the second shutter 253 of the toner cartridge E is closed. Furthermore, Figure 48(c) is a cross-sectional view of the state of Figure 48(a) as seen from the non-drive side, and Figure 48(d) is a cross-sectional view of the state of Figure 48(b) as seen from the non-drive side.

[0401] The closing operation of the first shutter 237 and the second shutter 253 is performed in the reverse order to the opening operation described above. The closing direction of the first shutter 237 and the second shutter 253 is the direction in which the container 247 rotates in the opposite direction to the rotation direction when the second conveying member 246 is driven (the direction of arrow h in Figures 46(a), 47(b), 48(c), and 48(d)).

[0402] 46 , a user grips the gripping member 244 and rotates the container 247 in the closing direction (the direction of the arrow h). Then, the surface 245b of the convex portion 245 of the container 247 abuts against the surface 237a2 of the hole 237a of the first shutter 237. As a result, the first shutter 237 receives a force F18 from the surface 237a2 and rotates together with the container 247, thereby closing the second opening 230.

[0403] At this time, as shown in Figure 47(a), the positions of the claw portion 271a and the protrusion portion 271b of the snap fit portion 271 of the second shutter 253 are such that they overlap with the shutter holding portion 263 of the developing unit D in the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge E. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 47(b), the claw portion 271a of the snap fit portion 271 is positioned downstream of the shutter holding portion 263 of the developing unit D in the direction that opens the third opening 249 of the toner cartridge E (the direction of arrow e in Figure 47).

[0404] Therefore, when the container 247 is rotated in the closing direction (arrow h direction), the claw portion 271a of the snap fit portion 271 of the second shutter 237 and the shutter holding portion 263 come into contact in the closing direction (arrow h direction) of the container 247 (Figure 47(c)).

[0405] Furthermore, the protrusion 271b of the second shutter 253 fits into the lock hole 63a of the shutter holder 263 (FIG. 47(c)). Therefore, the second shutter 253 is restricted by the lock holder 262 in the direction of closing the container 247 (the direction of arrow h). Then, as the toner cartridge E rotates in the direction of arrow h, the second shutter 253 and the container 247 move relative to each other. This causes the second shutter 253 to close the third opening 249 (as shown in FIG. 38 (from FIG. 48(c) to FIG. 48(d))).

[0406] That is, the claw portion 271a protrudes at least in the outer diameter direction (outside in the rotation radius direction) of the second shutter 253. As a result, the claw portion 271a comes into contact (engages) with the shutter holding portion 263 when the container 247 rotates. The claw portion 271a is an engagement portion (closing force receiving portion) that receives a force from the shutter holding portion 263 to move the second shutter 253 to the closed position. The force received by the claw portion 271a from the shutter holding portion 263 restricts the movement of the second shutter 253 when the container 247 rotates. In other words, the force received by the claw portion 271a causes the second shutter 253 to rotate relative to the container 247 and move from the open position to the closed position.

[0407] Furthermore, the protrusion 271b protrudes at least upstream in the direction of arrow e (the rotation direction in which the second shutter 253 rotates from the open position to the closed position relative to the container 247). This allows the protrusion 271b to maintain an engaged state with the lock hole 263a when the second shutter 253 rotates from the open position to the closed position. The engagement of the protrusion 271b with the lock hole 263a maintains the engaged state (contact state) between the claw portion 271a and the shutter holding portion 263.

[0408] In other words, the protrusion 271b is an engagement portion (second engagement portion) that engages with the lock hole 263a, and also an engagement maintaining portion that maintains the engagement state between the claw portion 271a and the shutter holding portion 263. The protrusion 271b is a protrusion that is smaller than the claw portion 271a. In other words, the height of the protrusion 271b (height measured along the protruding direction of the protrusion 271b) is smaller than the height of the claw portion 271a (height measured along the protruding direction of the claw portion 271a). The height of the claw portion 271a is 5.6 mm, while the height of the protrusion 271b is 0.3 mm. The height of the protrusion 271b is preferably 0.1 mm or more and 0.5 mm or less.

[0409] 48(a) and 48(b), the first regulated surface 271d or the second regulated surface 271e of the second shutter 253 abuts against the first regulated surface 247d and the corner portion 247h of the container 247 until the third opening 249 is closed. As a result, the first regulated surface 271d or the second regulated surface 271e of the second shutter 253 maintains the position in the longitudinal direction of the snap fit portion 271. The first regulated surface 247d is an engagement position maintaining portion that maintains the claw portion 271a and the protrusion portion 271b in the engagement position.

[0410] When the toner cartridge E further rotates after the third opening 249 is closed, the third regulated surface 271f of the snap-fit ​​portion 271 abuts against the second regulated surface 247e of the container 247. The third regulated surface 271f of the snap-fit ​​portion 271 receives a force F17 from the second regulated surface 247e of the container 247 outward in the longitudinal direction. At this time, the second regulated surface 271e does not abut against the first regulated surface 247d of the container 247. The claw portion 271a and the protrusion 271b of the snap-fit ​​portion 271 fall outward in the longitudinal direction relative to the shutter holding portion 263 due to the force F17 (the direction of arrow r6 in FIG. 48(b)). As a result, the positions of the claw portion 271a and the protrusion 271b of the snap-fit ​​portion 271 of the second shutter 253 are the same as those before attachment relative to the shutter holding portion 263 of the developing unit D (the state shown in FIG. 42). In this state, the toner cartridge E is released from its position relative to the developing unit D, and the toner cartridge E can be removed.

[0411] The second regulating surface 247e is a moving portion (retracted position moving portion) that moves the claw portion 271a and the protrusion portion 271b outward in the longitudinal direction (outward in the axial direction). The second regulating surface 247e biases the third regulated surface 271f when the second shutter 253 moves to the closed position (when the toner cartridge E rotates to be removed). The force applied from the second regulating surface 247e to the third regulated surface 271f moves the claw portion 271a to the retracted position where it disengages from the shutter holding portion 263. Similarly, the protrusion portion 271b also moves to the retracted position where it disengages from the lock hole 263a.

[0412] The second regulating surface 247e is a guide portion that guides the engaging portion (claw portion 271a, protrusion portion 271b) from the engaging position to the retracted position, and is a biasing portion (pressing portion) that biases and presses the claw portion 271a and protrusion portion 271b toward the retracted position via the third regulated surface 271f.

[0413] The second restricting surface 247b is provided on the arm portion 271c that supports the engaging portion (the claw portion 271a, the protrusion portion 271b) and biases the engaging portion by contacting the third restricted surface 271f. However, the second restricting surface 247b may be configured to directly contact the engaging portion (the claw portion 271a, the protrusion portion 271b).

[0414] The second restriction surface 247b causes the engaging portion (claw portion 271a, protrusion portion 271b) to move 1.3 mm or more outward in the axial direction. In other words, the movement distance (movement amount) when the engaging portion moves to the retracted position due to the second restriction surface 247b is set to be 1.3 mm or more when measured along the axial direction. This ensures that the protrusion portion 271b can reliably release the engagement with the lock hole 263a.

[0415] The second regulating surface 247e is a retracted position holding portion that holds the engaging portion in the retracted position when the second shutter 253 is in the closed position. The second regulating surface 247e prevents the engaging portion (271a, protrusion 271b) from moving to the engaging position. When the toner cartridge E is inserted or removed from the developing unit D in a substantially linear manner, the engaging portion is held in the retracted position and does not interfere with the insertion or removal of the toner cartridge.

[0416] Note that the claw portion 271a and the protrusion portion 271b also use the elastic force of the snap fit 271 (arm portion 271c) when moving to the retracted position. That is, in the process of the second shutter 253 moving from the open position to the closed position, the snap fit portion 271 moves away from the first restriction surface 247d. Then, the elastically deformed snap fit portion 271 (arm portion 271c) tries to release the deformation. At this time, the movement (elastic force) of the snap fit 271 moves the claw portion 271a and the protrusion portion 271b to the retracted position.

[0417] In other words, even without the second restriction surface 247e, the claw portion 271a and the protrusion portion 271b may be able to move to the retracted position due to the elastic force of the snap fit portion 271 (arm portion 271c).

[0418] However, if the second shutter 253 is in the open position and the snap-fit ​​portion 271 remains deformed by the first restriction surface 247d for a long period of time, the snap-fit ​​portion 271 will undergo plastic deformation. In this case, the elastic force of the snap-fit ​​portion 271 will be reduced, and may be insufficient to move the claw portion 271a and the protrusion 271b to the retracted position. Therefore, in this embodiment, the container 247 is provided with a retracted position moving portion (second restriction surface 247e) that acts on the snap-fit ​​portion 271 to move the claw portion 271a and the protrusion 271b to the retracted position, thereby reliably moving the claw portion 271a and the protrusion 271b to the retracted position.

[0419] However, as long as the elastic force of the arm portion 271c (support portion, connecting portion) that supports the claw portion 271a and the protrusion portion 271b can be ensured, the retracted position moving portion (second restriction surface 247e) may not be provided.

[0420] For example, if a metal leaf spring or the like is used as a support for the arm portion 271c, the arm portion 271c is less likely to undergo plastic deformation and its elastic force is less likely to change. Even without a retracted position moving portion (second restriction surface 247e), the claw portion 271a and the protrusion portion 271b can be moved to the retracted position.

[0421] Furthermore, the support portion (arm portion 271c) itself may not be made elastic, and an elastic member (elastic portion) may be provided separately from the support portion. For example, the support portion (arm portion) is rotatably attached to the shutter main body portion 253m using a shaft. A torsion spring (elastic member, elastic portion) may be provided on this shaft, and the force of the torsion spring may be used to urge the support portion to the retracted position. Even if the support portion itself does not deform, the rotation of the support portion allows the engagement portion (claw portion 271a, protrusion portion 271b) to move. Furthermore, the engagement portion can be moved from the engagement position to the retracted position by the elastic force of the torsion spring.

[0422] By configuring the second shutter 253 as described above, even in a configuration in which the toner cartridge is attached to the developing unit by an attachment / detachment operation that involves rotation, the shutters can be reliably opened and closed.

[0423] As described above, in this embodiment, the opening and closing operation of the second shutter causes the claws 271a and the protrusions 271b to move in the longitudinal direction (rotation axis direction, central axis direction) of the container frame 247g relative to the shutter main body 253m. This causes the claws 271a and the protrusions 271b to move between the engaged position and the retracted position. However, this does not mean that the claws 271a and the protrusions 271b move only in the longitudinal direction of the container frame. In other words, the movement direction of the claws 271a and the protrusions 271b is not limited to being parallel to the longitudinal direction.

[0424] When the claws 271a and the protrusions 271b move in the longitudinal direction, the claws 271a and the protrusions 271b may move in the radial direction or the circumferential direction of the container frame 247g accordingly.

[0425] In fact, in this embodiment, when the claw portion 271a and the protrusion portion 271b move between the retracted position and the engagement position, they also move in the circumferential direction of the container 247 relative to the shutter main body. In other words, when the claw portion 271a and the protrusion portion 271b move from the retracted position to the engagement position, they also move toward the rear end side of the second shutter 253.

[0426] In this embodiment, an engagement position moving portion (first restriction surface 247d) that moves the engagement portion (claw portion 271a and protrusion portion 271b) of the second shutter 253 to the engagement position is a surface formed by a protrusion portion (convex portion) provided on the container 274. Similarly, a retracted position moving portion (second restriction surface 247e) that moves the engagement portion (claw portion 271a and protrusion portion 271b) to the retracted position is a surface formed by a protrusion portion (convex portion) provided on the container 274.

[0427] However, the engagement position moving portion (first restriction surface 247d) and the retracted position moving portion (second restriction surface 247e) may be formed by a recess (depression, groove) provided in container 274. For example, a configuration is conceivable in which snap-fit ​​portion 271 is disposed in a groove (recess) provided in container 247, and the engagement portion (claw portion 271a or protrusion portion 271b) is moved along this groove to the retracted position or the engagement position.

[0428] <Example 5> In this embodiment, a configuration for improving reliability in opening and closing the shutter provided in the developing unit D will be described in detail.

[0429] Here, components having the same functions and actions as those in the above-described embodiments will be referred to by the same names as in the above-described embodiments, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted. Also, the drawings are simplified and some shapes and parts are omitted. Furthermore, the dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative positions of the components described in the present embodiment may be changed as appropriate depending on the configuration of the device and various conditions. Therefore, the present embodiment is not intended to be limited to the configurations disclosed in the embodiments.

[0430] [About the guide] In this embodiment, the side of the toner cartridge E where the second drive transmission part 348 is located is called the drive side, and the other end is called the non-drive side. The insertion guided part located on the drive side is called the insertion guided part (drive) 343. The insertion guided part located on the non-drive side is called the insertion guided part (non-drive) 342.

[0431] Furthermore, the insertion guide portion arranged on the drive side is referred to as an insertion guide portion (drive) 336d, and the insertion guide portion arranged on the non-drive side is referred to as an insertion guide portion (non-drive) 335d.

[0432] The main parts will be described below with reference to Figures 49, 50, and 51. Figure 49 is a perspective view of the toner cartridge E in this embodiment before it is attached to the developing unit D. Figure 50 is a cross-sectional view showing the vicinity of the second opening 330 of the developing unit D. Figure 50(a) is a cross-sectional view seen from the drive side, and Figure 50(b) is a cross-sectional view seen from the non-drive side. In this embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the developing unit D refers to the direction parallel to the axial direction of the developing roller 324 of the developing unit D. Figure 51 is a perspective view of the toner cartridge E, with Figure 51(a) being a perspective view seen from the second drive transmission part 348 and Figure 51(b) being a perspective view seen from the opposite side to the second drive transmission part 348.

[0433] 49, 50, and 51, the insertion direction f of the toner cartridge E of this embodiment into the developing unit D is the linear direction of the insertion guide portion (drive) 336d and the insertion guide portion (non-drive) 335d. Furthermore, the insertion direction f of this embodiment is substantially the same direction as the direction in which the protrusion 345 provided on the container 347 of the toner cartridge E protrudes from the container 347 when viewed from the cross-sectional direction (direction J in FIG. 51). This is because the protrusion 345 of the container 347 needs to fit into the hole 337a of the first shutter 337 when the toner cartridge E is inserted into a predetermined mounting position in the developing unit D.

[0434] The detailed structure and function of the protrusion 345 of the container 347 have been described in the previous embodiment, and therefore will not be repeated here.

[0435] Repeating the previous embodiment, the insertion guided portion (non) 342 is provided with an abutting portion 342a that abuts against the abutting portion 335a (see FIG. 50(b)) of the developing unit D when the toner cartridge E is inserted. Furthermore, the insertion guided portion (non) 342 is provided with a rotation guided portion 342b that guides the container frame 347a when opening and closing the first shutter 337 (see FIG. 49) and the second shutter 353 (see FIG. 51(a)). Furthermore, the insertion guided portion (non) 342 is provided with regulated portions (regulated surfaces) 342c1 and 342c2 for regulating the insertion posture and movement direction of the toner cartridge E when it is inserted.

[0436] Next, the insertion guided portion (drive) 343 is provided at the end of the second drive transmission portion 348 at the longitudinal end of the toner cartridge E, but may be provided on the container 347. Furthermore, the insertion guided portion (drive) 343 is provided with an abutting portion 343a that abuts against the abutted portion 336a of the developing unit D when the toner cartridge E is inserted. The insertion guided portion (drive) 343 is configured so that the abutting portion 343a also serves as a rotation guided portion that guides the rotation of the container frame 347a when the first shutter 337 and the second shutter 353 are opened and closed.

[0437] In the embodiment, the abutment portion 342a, the rotation guided portion 342b, the restricting portion 342c1, and the restricting portion 342c2 are configured as one unit with the non-insertion guided portion 342b in the non-insertion guided portion 342. However, these may be provided as separate members as long as they fulfill their respective functions.

[0438] ■ (Relationship between the insertion guided part (drive) and the insertion guide part (drive)) First, the relationship between the insertion guided portion (drive) 343 and the insertion guide portion (drive) 336d in this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 52 and 53. Figure 52 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the vicinity of the insertion guided portion (drive) 343 and the insertion guide portion (drive) 336d in this embodiment.

[0439] FIG. 53 is a cross-sectional view showing the shapes of the inserted guide portion (drive) 343 and the insertion guide portion (drive) 336d in another form.

[0440] In this embodiment, the shape of the inserted guide portion (drive) 343 is cylindrical. Here, let the diameter of the inserted guide portion (drive) 343 be D1. Further, the width of the insertion guide portion (drive) 336d (dimension measured in the direction intersecting the insertion direction f of the toner cartridge E) is defined as follows. That is, when the toner cartridge E is being inserted into the developing unit D, the width of the insertion guide portion (drive) 336d is w9, and when the installation of the toner cartridge E is completed, the width of the insertion guide portion (drive) 336d is w10.

[0441] The inserted guide portion (drive) 343 has the role of guiding the insertion for the user when inserting the toner cartridge E into the developing unit D. Furthermore, the inserted guide portion (drive) 343 is integral with the second drive transmission portion 348. When the insertion of the toner cartridge E is completed and drive transmission occurs, the insertion guide portion (drive) 343 rotates integrally with the second drive transmission portion 348. Therefore, the inserted guide portion (drive) 343 needs to have a rotatable relationship with the insertion guide portion (drive) 336d during the insertion process of the toner cartridge E while having the role of an insertion guide, and when the insertion is completed and drive transmission is performed to the second drive transmission portion 348. Thus, in this embodiment, the shape of the insertion guide portion (drive) 336d is such that the width w9 during the insertion of the toner cartridge E into the developing unit D and the width w10 in the state where the installation is completed are the same, and the relationship is D1 < w9 = w10.

[0442] Note that in this embodiment, the shape of the inserted guide portion (drive) 343 is cylindrical, but it is not limited to this, and it may have a shape as shown in FIG. 53. The shape of the inserted guide portion (drive) 343 shown in FIG. 53 is such that the insertion direction f of the toner cartridge E (the direction in which the convex portion 345 of the container 347 protrudes with respect to the container 347, see FIG. 50) is the short side rather than the width direction of the inserted guide portion (drive) 336d. If the width of the inserted guide portion (drive) 343 in the insertion direction f is w12 and the width of the inserted guide portion (drive) 343 in the width direction of the inserted guide portion (drive) 336d is w13, then the relationship is w12 < w13. Even with this shape, the inserted guide portion (drive) 343 has the role of an insertion guide during the insertion process of the toner cartridge E between it and the inserted guide portion (drive) 336d, and when the insertion is completed and the drive is transmitted to the second drive transmission portion 348, a rotatable relationship becomes possible.

[0443] ■(Relationship between the inserted guide portion (non) and the insertion guide portion (non)) Next, the relationship between the inserted guide portion (non) 342 and the insertion guide portion (non) 335d in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 54. FIG. 54 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the vicinity of the inserted guide portion (non) 342 and the insertion guide portion (non) 335d in this embodiment.

[0444] In this embodiment, the insertable guide part (non) 342 has a shape with a long side in the mounting direction f. If the length of the long side of the insertable guide part (non) 342 in the mounting direction f is w16, and the width of the insertable guide part (non) 342 in the width direction of the insertion guide part (non) 335d is w17, then the relationship is w16 > w17. Also, if the width during the insertion of the toner cartridge E into the developing unit D of the insertion guide (non) 335d is w14, then the relationship is w17 < w14. Furthermore, when opening and closing the first shutter 337 (see Fig. 49) and the second shutter 353 (see Fig. 51), if the width of the rotation guide part (non) 335b that guides the rotation of the toner cartridge E is w15, then the relationship is w16 < w15. By setting this relationship, the restricted parts (restricted surfaces) 342c1 and 342c2, which are the long side portions extending in the mounting direction f of the insertable guide part (non) 342, restrict the insertion posture and movement direction of the toner cartridge E along the width of the insertion guide (non) 335d. And similar to other embodiments, the mounting operation of the toner cartridge E becomes possible.

[0445] [Regarding the guide shape at the end of the toner cartridge] Next, the protrusions (insertable guide parts) provided at the ends of the toner cartridge E will be described in detail. At the same time, the protrusions (lock release protrusions) that protrude from the circumferential surface of the toner cartridge E along the mounting direction will be described.

[0446] ■(Regarding the relationship between the insertable guide part (drive) 343 and the insertable guide part (non) 342) Next, the relationship between the insertable guide part (drive) 343 and the insertable guide part (non) 342 will be described using Fig. 55. Fig. 55 is a diagram of the state where the longitudinal positions of the toner cartridge E and the developing unit D are correct.

[0447] Here, the length of the insertion guided portion (drive) 343 that protrudes from the drive-side end face of the second drive transmission portion 348 in the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge is defined as w18 (hereinafter referred to as the length w18 of the insertion guided portion (drive) 343). At this time, the depth of the insertion guide portion (drive) 336d in the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge is defined as w19 (hereinafter referred to as the depth w19 of the insertion guide portion (drive) 336d).

[0448] Similarly, the length of the non-insertion guided portion 342 that protrudes from the non-drive end of the container 347 in the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge is defined as w20 (hereinafter referred to as the length w20 of the non-insertion guided portion 342).The depth of the insertion guide portion (drive) 336d in the longitudinal direction of the toner cartridge is defined as w21 (hereinafter referred to as the depth w21 of the non-insertion guide portion 335d).

[0449] In this embodiment, the length w18 of the insertion guided portion (drive) 343 is set in a relationship that allows it to fit within the tolerance range of the depth w19 of the insertion guide portion (drive) 336d. Specifically, the length w18 of the insertion guided portion (drive) 343 is slightly shorter than the depth w19 of the insertion guide portion (drive) 336d. Similarly, the length w20 of the insertion guided portion (non) 342 is set in a relationship that allows it to fit within the tolerance range of the depth w21 of the insertion guide portion (non) 335d. Specifically, the length w20 of the insertion guided portion (non) 342 is slightly shorter than the depth w21 of the insertion guide portion (non) 335d. The length w18 of the insertion guided portion (drive) 343 and the length w20 of the insertion guided portion (non) 342 are set to different lengths. Accordingly, the depth w19 of the insertion guide portion (drive) 336d and the depth w21 of the insertion guide portion (non-drive) 335d are also set to different depths. This is to prevent a user from mistakenly installing the drive side and non-drive side of the toner cartridge E relative to the development unit D when installing the toner cartridge E into the development unit D. Specifically, in this embodiment, the length w18 of the insertion guided portion (drive) 343 is set to be longer than the length w20 of the insertion guided portion (non-drive) 342. Accordingly, the depth w19 of the insertion guide portion (drive) 336d is set to be deeper than the depth w21 of the insertion guide portion (non-drive) 335d.

[0450] In this way, the shapes of the insertion guided portion (drive) 343, the insertion guide portion (drive) 336d, the insertion guided portion (non-drive) 342, and the insertion guide portion (non-drive) 335d and the relationship between each element were adjusted, thereby improving the ease of installation of the toner cartridge E into the development unit D.

[0451] Example 6 In this embodiment, a toner cartridge E will be described in which the configuration of the second shutter 253 and the like in the above-described embodiment 4 has been partially modified. Note that the configuration other than that of the toner cartridge E is substantially the same as that in embodiment 4, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0452] Furthermore, with regard to the configuration of the toner cartridge E, the same components as those in the above embodiment will be designated by the same names and the description thereof will be omitted in some cases.

[0453] Figures 56(a), (b), and (c) are explanatory views showing the second shutter in the closed position, and Figures 57(a), (b), and (c) are explanatory views showing the second shutter in the open position.

[0454] In this embodiment, the second shutter 553 is configured to be able to open and close the third opening 249 by moving relative to the container 547. The second shutter 553 has a shutter main body 553m to which a snap-fit ​​portion (support portion, connecting portion, elastic portion) 571 is connected. A claw portion (first engaging portion, first protrusion) 571a is provided at the tip of the snap-fit ​​portion 571, and a protrusion (second engaging portion, second protrusion) 571b is further provided on the claw portion 571a. The claw portion 571a and the protrusion portion 571b are engaging portions for engaging with the receiving device (developing unit D).

[0455] In this embodiment, the arm portion of the snap-fit ​​portion 571 is deformed when the engaging portion (claw portion 571a and protrusion portion 571b) is in the retracted position. That is, as shown in FIGS. 56(a), 56(b), and 56(c), when the second shutter 553 moves from the open position to the closed position, the regulated surface 571f of the snap-fit ​​portion 571 comes into contact with the regulating surface 547e. As a result, the snap-fit ​​portion 571 receives force from the regulating surface 547e and deforms outward in the axial direction. As a result, the engaging portion (claw portion 571a and protrusion portion 571b) moves to the retracted position. When the second shutter 553 is in the open position, the regulating surface 571j (retracted position holding portion) comes into contact with the snap-fit ​​portion 571, so that the engaging portion (claw portion 571a and protrusion portion 571b) is held in the retracted position.

[0456] 57(a), (b), and (c), when the second shutter is opened, the snap-fit ​​portion 571 moves away from the restricting surface 547e and is no longer deformed (returns to its natural state). As a result, the engaging portion (claw portion 571a and protrusion portion 571b) moves to the engaging position. That is, the elastic force of the snap-fit ​​portion 571 moves the engaging portion inward in the axial direction. As a result, the claw portion 571a engages with the shutter holding portion 263, and the protrusion portion 571b engages with the lock hole 263a.

[0457] In this embodiment, the container 547 may also be provided with an engagement position moving portion for moving the engagement portion to the engagement position, or an engagement position holding portion for holding the engagement portion in the engagement position (see the first regulating surface 247d in the fourth embodiment).

[0458] In this embodiment, the support portion (the arm portion of snap-fit ​​portion 571) that supports the engaging portion has an elastic portion. In other words, the engaging portion (claw portion 571a, protrusion portion 571b) moves to the engaging position by the elastic force of the support portion (snap-fit ​​portion 571) itself. However, the support portion itself does not need to have an elastic portion.

[0459] For example, a support portion (support member, arm portion) that supports the engagement portion (claw portion 571a, protrusion portion 571b) is rotatably attached to the shutter main body portion 553m using a shaft. A torsion spring (elastic member, elastic portion) can be provided on this shaft, and the force of the torsion spring can be used to urge the support portion toward the engagement position. With this configuration, the engagement portion (claw portion 571a, protrusion portion 571b) can be moved by the rotation of the support portion, even if the support portion itself does not deform. Furthermore, the engagement portion can be moved from the retracted position to the engagement position by the elastic force of the torsion spring.

[0460] Alternatively, it is possible to configure the support part so that it can slide relative to the shutter main body part 553, and to bias the support part to the engagement position by a coil spring (elastic member). With this configuration, even if the support part itself does not deform, the engagement part can move when the support part slides.

[0461] The configuration in which a movably provided support portion (support member) is biased by an elastic portion (elastic member) will be described in detail in the seventh embodiment below.

[0462] Example 7 In this embodiment, a toner cartridge E will be described in which the configuration of the second shutter 253 and the like in the above-described embodiment 4 has been partially modified. In the embodiment 4 and the like, the support portion (arm portion 271c) that supports the engagement portion (claw portion 271a, protrusion portion 271b, etc.) of the second shutter is itself an elastic portion. In contrast, in this embodiment, an elastic member (elastic portion) is provided separately from the support portion (support portion). In addition, the support portion is supported so as to be movable.

[0463] Note that the configuration other than the toner cartridge E is substantially the same as in Example 4, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. Furthermore, with regard to the configuration of the toner cartridge E, the same components as those in the above-described Examples may be designated by the same names and their description may be omitted. Furthermore, the drawings are simplified, with some shapes and parts omitted. Furthermore, the dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative positions of the components described in the Examples may be changed as appropriate depending on the configuration of the device and various conditions. Therefore, the configurations disclosed in the Examples are not intended to be limiting.

[0464] Figures 58(a), (b) and (c) are explanatory views showing the second shutter of this embodiment, and Figure 59 is an explanatory view showing an engaging portion (engaging member) provided on the second shutter.

[0465] Figures 60(a), (b) and 61(a), (b) are explanatory diagrams showing the second shutter in the closed position, and Figures 62(a), (b) and 63(a), (b) are explanatory diagrams showing the second shutter in the open position.

[0466] In this embodiment, the second shutter (opening / closing member) 653 moves relative to the container 647, thereby opening and closing the third opening 249.

[0467] The second shutter 653 has a shutter main body (closing portion) 653m, an engaging member (support portion, supporting member) 671, an arm portion 672, and a coil spring 675. The arm portion 672 is an arm portion that extends from the lower end side of the shutter main body portion 653m to the tip side, and the engaging member 671 and the coil spring (compression spring) 675 are attached to the tip side of the arm portion 672.

[0468] 59, the engaging member 671 has a claw portion (first engaging portion) 671a and a protrusion portion (second engaging portion) 671b. The claw portion 671a and the protrusion portion 671b are engaging portions (opening / closing member side engaging portions) provided on the second shutter 653, and have the same shapes as the claw portion 271a and the protrusion portion 271b in the fourth embodiment. The claw portion 671a protrudes at least toward the outside in the rotation radius direction of the second shutter 653. Furthermore, the protrusion portion 671b protrudes at least toward the downstream side in the movement direction in which the second shutter 653 moves from the closed position to the open position.

[0469] The portion of the engaging member 671 excluding the engaging portions (claw portions 671a, 671b) is a support portion that supports the engaging portions. The engaging member 671 is also a movable member (sliding member) that is slidable relative to the shutter main body portion 653m. In addition, a coil spring (elastic member, elastic portion) 675 is a biasing portion that biases the engaging member 671. The coil spring 675 is attached to a boss 671h provided on the engaging member 671, and presses a surface (biased portion) 671e of the engaging member 671, biasing the engaging member 671 in a predetermined direction. In this embodiment, the engaging member 671 (claw portions 671a, protrusion portions 671b) is biased inward in the axial direction by the coil spring (elastic member, elastic portion) 675. In other words, the engaging portions (claw portions 671a, 671b) are biased toward the engaging position by the coil spring 675.

[0470] It should be noted that an elastic member (elastic portion) other than a coil spring may be used as the biasing portion. For example, a leaf spring may be used. Furthermore, although the biasing portion in this embodiment is a compression spring, it is also possible to use a tension spring as the biasing portion by changing the positioning of the biasing portion relative to the engaging member 671. In other words, a configuration can be adopted in which the force of the coil spring pulling the engaging member 671 is used to bias the engaging portion to the engaged position.

[0471] As shown in Figures 60(a) and 60(b) and Figures 61(a) and 61(b), when the second shutter 653 is in the closed position, the engagement member 671 is in contact with the restriction surface and its movement is restricted. That is, although the engaging portion (claw portion 671a, protrusion portion 671b) is biased toward the engaging position by coil spring 675, it is held in the retracted position by regulating surface 647j provided on container 647. Regulating surface 647j is a retracted position holding portion that holds the engaging portion in the retracted position against coil spring 675.

[0472] When the second shutter 653 is in the closed position, the claw portion 671a does not engage with the shutter holding portion, and the protrusion portion 671b does not engage with the lock hole.

[0473] In this state, container 647 is rotated in the direction of arrow e in Figure 61(b). Then, second shutter 653 rotates in the direction of arrow h relative to container 647. As a result, second shutter 653 is placed in the open position as shown in Figures 62(a), (b), 63(a), and (b), and the third opening (discharge port) is opened.

[0474] Furthermore, as the second shutter 653 moves from the closed position to the open position, the restricting surfaces 647j and 647e move away from the engaging member 671 (regulated surfaces 671f, 671k). Then, the engaging member 671 (claw portion 671a, protrusion portion 671b) moves inward in the axial direction to the engaging position by the force of the coil spring 675. That is, the claw portion 671a is positioned so as to be engageable with the shutter holding portion 263, and the protrusion portion 671b is positioned so as to be engageable with the lock hole 263a.

[0475] The coil spring 675 is an engagement position moving portion provided on the second shutter 653 for moving the claw portion 671a and the protrusion portion 671b to the engagement position.

[0476] Next, consider the case where the container 647 rotates in the direction of arrow e shown in FIG. 63(b) from a state in which the second shutter 653 is in the open position. At this time, the claw portion 671a in the engagement position engages with the shutter holding portion 263, and the protrusion portion 671b in the engagement position engages with the lock hole 263a. As a result, the movement of the second shutter 653 is restricted, and only the container 647 rotates in the direction of arrow e. In other words, the second shutter 653 rotates in the direction of arrow h relative to the container 647. That is, the second shutter 653 moves to the closed position by utilizing the force that the claw portion 671a and the protrusion portion 671b receive from the shutter holding portion 263a.

[0477] As the second shutter 653 moves to the open position, a regulating surface 647e provided on the container comes into contact with a regulated surface 671f provided on the engaging member 671 (claw portion 671a). The regulating surface 647e is a surface (inclined portion) that is inclined with respect to the movement direction (rotation direction) of the second shutter 653. Therefore, by coming into contact with the regulating surface 647e, the engaging member 671 moves outward in the axial direction along the regulating surface 647e. In other words, the engaging member 671 (claw portion 671a, protrusion portion 671b) moves toward the retracted position against the elastic force of the coil spring 675 due to the force received from the regulating surface 647e.

[0478] As a result, the projection 671b is disengaged from the lock hole 263a, and then the claw 671a is disengaged from the shutter holding portion 263.

[0479] The restricting surface 647e is a retracted position moving portion that moves the engaging portion (claw portion 671a, protrusion portion 671b) provided on the second shutter 653 toward the retracted position. The restricting surface 647e is a surface formed by a convex portion (protrusion) provided on the container 647. Alternatively, a recess (for example, a groove) may be provided on the container 647, and the restricting surface 647e may be provided by the recess.

[0480] In addition, in this embodiment, the engaging portion is moved toward the engaging position by an elastic portion (coil spring, elastic member) provided on the second shutter 653, and the engaging portion is moved to the retracted position by a regulating surface (retracted position moving portion) provided on the container.

[0481] However, conversely, a configuration may be adopted in which the engaging portion is moved to the retracted position by an elastic member (coil spring or the like) provided on the second shutter 653, and the engaging portion is moved to the engaging position by a regulating surface (engagement position moving portion) provided on the container. In other words, a configuration in which the elastic member (coil spring or the like) of this embodiment is applied to the above-mentioned sixth embodiment may also be adopted. [Explanation of symbols]

[0482] 30 Second opening 43 Insertion guide part 43a Stop part 43b Rotation guide part 44 Gripping member 44a Fixed part 44b Operation section 53 Second Shutter 53a Snap fit part 53b Claw part 53c Tip surface 54 Second sealing seal 58 Communication section 61 First lock arm 61a Claw part 62 Unlocking claw 63 Shutter holder 64 Agitator shaft seal

Claims

1. A toner cartridge that is detachable from a receiving device, a container having a storage portion for storing toner and an outlet for discharging the toner from the storage portion to the receiving device; an opening / closing member having a closing portion for closing the discharge outlet and an engaging portion movable relative to the closing portion, the opening / closing member being rotatable relative to the container between (a) an open position where the closing portion opens the discharge outlet, and (b) a closed position where the closing portion closes the discharge outlet; the engaging portion is movable relative to the closing portion between (c) an engaging position for engaging with the receiving device so as to receive a force for moving the opening / closing member from the open position to the closed position when the toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device, and (d) a retracted position retracted from the engaging position; The toner cartridge is configured so that the engaging portion moves from the retracted position to the engaging position as the opening / closing member rotates from the closed position to the open position.

2. 2. The toner cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the engaging portion moves from the retracted position to the engaging position when the opening / closing member rotates from the closed position to the open position.

3. 3. The toner cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising an engagement position moving portion provided on the container, which moves the engagement portion from the retracted position to the engagement position as the opening / closing member rotates from the closed position to the open position.

4. 4. The toner cartridge according to claim 3, wherein the engaging position moving portion has a biasing portion for biasing the engaging portion toward the engaging position.

5. 5. The toner cartridge according to claim 3, wherein the engaging position moving portion is formed by a protrusion provided on the container.

6. 5. The toner cartridge according to claim 3, wherein the engaging position moving portion is formed by a recess provided in the container.

7. 7. The toner cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising an engagement position holding portion provided on the container, which holds the engagement portion in the engagement position when the opening / closing member is in the open position.

8. 8. The toner cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising an elastic portion for moving the engaging portion from the retracted position to the engaging position as the opening / closing member rotates from the closed position to the open position.

9. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion, 9. The toner cartridge according to claim 8, wherein the support portion has the elastic portion.

10. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion and is movable relative to the closing portion, 9. The toner cartridge according to claim 8, wherein the elastic portion is an elastic member for biasing the support portion.

11. 11. The toner cartridge according to claim 8, wherein the elastic portion is made of metal.

12. 12. The toner cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the engaging portion moves from the engaging position to the retracted position as the opening / closing member rotates from the open position to the closed position.

13. 13. The toner cartridge according to claim 12, wherein the engaging portion moves from the engaging position to the retracted position when the opening / closing member rotates from the open position to the closed position.

14. 14. The toner cartridge according to claim 12, further comprising a retracted position moving portion provided on the container, which moves the engaging portion from the engaging position to the retracted position as the opening / closing member rotates from the open position to the closed position.

15. 15. The toner cartridge according to claim 14, wherein the retracted position movement portion has a biasing portion for biasing the engaging portion toward the retracted position.

16. 16. The toner cartridge according to claim 14, wherein the retracted position movement portion is formed by a protrusion provided on the container.

17. 16. The toner cartridge according to claim 14, wherein the retracted position movement portion is formed by a recess provided in the container.

18. 18. The toner cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising a retracted position holding portion provided on the container, which holds the engaging portion at the retracted position when the opening / closing member is located at the closed position.

19. 19. The toner cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising a second elastic portion for moving the engaging portion from the engaging position to the retracted position as the opening / closing member rotates from the open position to the closed position.

20. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion, 20. The toner cartridge according to claim 19, wherein the support portion has the second elastic portion.

21. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion and is movable relative to the closing portion, 20. The toner cartridge according to claim 19, wherein the second elastic portion is an elastic member for biasing the support portion.

22. 22. The toner cartridge according to claim 19, wherein the second elastic portion is made of metal.

23. 23. The toner cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the engaging portion moves from the retracted position to the engaging position by moving at least in the direction of the rotation axis of the opening / closing member.

24. 24. The toner cartridge according to claim 23, wherein the engaging portion moves from the retracted position to the engaging position by moving at least inward in the direction of the rotation axis.

25. 25. The toner cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the engaging portion moves from the retracted position to the engaging position by moving at least in a direction of a radius of rotation of the opening / closing member.

26. 26. The toner cartridge according to claim 25, wherein the engaging portion moves from the retracted position to the engaging position by moving at least outward in the radial direction of rotation of the openable / closable member.

27. 27. The toner cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the engaging portion has a first protrusion that protrudes at least radially outward of the opening / closing member.

28. 28. The toner cartridge according to claim 27, wherein the engaging portion has a second protrusion that protrudes at least downstream in the direction in which the opening / closing member rotates from the closed position to the open position relative to the container.

29. 29. The toner cartridge according to claim 28, wherein the second protrusion is provided on the first protrusion.

30. 30. The toner cartridge according to claim 28, wherein the height of the second protrusion is smaller than the height of the first protrusion.

31. 31. A toner cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engaging portion.

32. 32. The toner cartridge according to claim 31, wherein the engaging portion moves between the retracted position and the engaging position by the deformation of the support portion.

33. 33. The toner cartridge according to claim 31, wherein the engaging portion moves between the retracted position and the engaging position as a result of the supporting portion sliding.

34. 34. The toner cartridge according to claim 31, wherein the engaging portion moves between the retracted position and the engaging position by the rotation of the support portion.

35. the opening / closing member has an arm portion extending toward the tip side of the closing portion, 35. A toner cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the engaging portion is provided on a tip end side of the arm portion.

36. 36. A toner cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the opening / closing member has a locking portion that engages with the container to lock the opening / closing member in the closed position.

37. 37. The toner cartridge according to claim 36, wherein the locking portion is movable relative to the closing portion between a locking position where the opening / closing member is locked and an unlocking position where the locking is released.

38. 38. The toner cartridge according to claim 37, wherein the opening / closing member has an unlocking force receiving portion that receives a force for moving the locking portion from the locked position to the unlocked position.

39. 39. The toner cartridge according to claim 38, wherein said unlocking force receiving portion receives a force from said receiving device when said toner cartridge is mounted in said receiving device.

40. 40. The toner cartridge according to claim 36, further comprising a cover portion that covers the lock portion.

41. The receiving device has a receiving opening for receiving the toner discharged from the discharge opening, and a receiving device side opening / closing member for opening and closing the receiving opening, 41. A toner cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the toner cartridge has a closing force applying portion that applies force to the receiving device side opening / closing member to close the receiving opening when the toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device.

42. 42. A toner cartridge according to claim 41, wherein said closing force applying portion is a protrusion that can be engaged with said receiving device side opening / closing member.

43. 43. The toner cartridge according to claim 41, wherein the closing force applying portion is configured to engage with a hole provided in the receiving device side opening / closing member.

44. a position restricting portion for restricting the position of the toner cartridge when the toner cartridge is inserted into the receiving device; 44. The toner cartridge according to claim 41, wherein the attitude regulating portion regulates the attitude of the toner cartridge so that the closing force applying portion can be engaged with the receiving device side open / close member.

45. the receiving device side opening / closing member is locked in a position to close the receiving opening, 45. The toner cartridge according to claim 41, wherein the closing force applying portion unlocks the receiving device side open-close member when engaged with the receiving device side open-close member.

46. 46. ​​A toner cartridge according to claim 41, wherein when the opening / closing member is in the closed position, the engaging portion is arranged downstream of the discharge port and upstream of the closing force applying portion in a rotational direction in which the opening / closing member rotates from the open position to the closed position relative to the container.

47. 47. The toner cartridge according to claim 41, wherein the closing force applying portion causes the receiving device side opening / closing member to open the receiving opening when the toner cartridge is mounted in the receiving device.

48. The receiving device has a receiving opening for receiving the toner discharged from the discharge opening, and a receiving device side opening / closing member for opening and closing the receiving opening, 48. A toner cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the toner cartridge has an opening force applying portion that applies force to the receiving device side opening / closing member to open the receiving opening when the toner cartridge is attached to the receiving device.

49. 49. A toner cartridge according to claim 48, wherein said opening force applying portion is a step portion provided on said container.

50. The receiving device is a receiving port for receiving the toner discharged from the discharge port; a receiving device side opening / closing member that opens and closes the receiving port; a receiving device side locking member that locks the receiving device side opening / closing member in a position where the receiving opening is closed; and 50. The toner cartridge according to claim 1, wherein said toner cartridge has an unlocking portion for unlocking said receiving device side locking member.

51. 51. A toner cartridge according to claim 50, wherein said unlocking portion is a protrusion that can come into contact with said receiving device side locking member.

52. 52. The toner cartridge according to claim 50, wherein said unlocking portion is configured to enter a hole provided in said receiving device side opening / closing member.

53. a position restricting portion for restricting an insertion position of the toner cartridge when the toner cartridge is inserted into the receiving device; 53. The toner cartridge according to claim 50, wherein the attitude regulating portion regulates the insertion attitude of the toner cartridge so that the lock releasing portion contacts the receiving device side locking member.

54. 54. The toner cartridge according to claim 50, wherein the unlocking portion allows the receiving device side locking member to lock the receiving device side opening / closing member when the toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device.

55. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 54, characterized in that the opening / closing member has an opening force receiving portion that can receive a force that moves the opening / closing member from the closed position to the open position as the toner cartridge is attached to the receiving device.

56. 56. The toner cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the toner cartridge is mounted to the receiving device by a mounting operation that involves a rotational movement.

57. 57. A toner cartridge according to claim 56, wherein said opening / closing member rotates from said open position to said closed position in accordance with said rotational movement.

58. 58. The toner cartridge according to claim 56, wherein the toner cartridge is mounted on the receiving device by being inserted into the receiving device in a substantially linear manner and then performing the rotational movement.

59. 59. The toner cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising a guide portion for guiding the installation of the toner cartridge into the receiving device.

60. 60. A toner cartridge according to claim 1, wherein said container has an opening / closing guide for guiding the rotation of said opening / closing member.

61. 61. The toner cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising a conveying member for conveying the toner in the container portion toward the discharge port.

62. 62. A toner cartridge according to claim 61, further comprising a rotational force receiving portion capable of receiving a rotational force for driving said conveying member from the outside of said toner cartridge.

63. 63. A toner cartridge according to claim 62, wherein the rotational direction of said rotational force receiving portion is the same as the rotational direction in which said opening / closing member rotates from said open position to said closed position relative to said container.

64. 64. A toner cartridge according to claim 63, wherein the rotational axis of said rotational force receiving portion and the rotational axis of said opening / closing member are disposed at different positions.

65. The container has an arc portion that is substantially arc-shaped; 65. A toner cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the discharge port is provided in the arc portion, and the openable / closable member rotates along the arc portion.

66. 66. A toner cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the container has a cylindrical portion that is substantially cylindrical.

67. 67. A toner cartridge according to claim 66, wherein said opening and closing member rotates along a curved surface of said cylindrical portion.

68. 68. A toner cartridge according to claim 66 or 67, wherein the diameter of said container at the longitudinal end is larger than the diameter of said container in the vicinity of said outlet.

69. 69. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 68, wherein the closure portion is substantially arc-shaped.

70. 70. The toner cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising a gripping portion for gripping the toner cartridge.

71. a guide portion provided on the container for guiding the toner cartridge in a predetermined insertion direction; A toner cartridge as described in claim 70, characterized in that when the toner cartridge is projected onto a projection plane perpendicular to the rotation axis of the opening / closing member and the toner cartridge is divided into two areas by an imaginary line passing through the rotation axis and parallel to the insertion direction, the gripping portion is located in the same area as the ejection outlet.

72. A toner cartridge that is detachable from a receiving device, a container having a storage portion for storing toner and an outlet for discharging the toner from the storage portion to the receiving device; an opening / closing member having a closing portion for closing the discharge outlet and an engaging portion movable relative to the closing portion, the opening / closing member being rotatable relative to the container between (a) an open position where the closing portion opens the discharge outlet, and (b) a closed position where the closing portion closes the discharge outlet; the engaging portion is movable relative to the closing portion between (c) an engaging position for engaging with the receiving device so as to receive a force for moving the opening / closing member from the open position to the closed position when the toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device, and (d) a retracted position retracted from the engaging position; The toner cartridge is configured so that the engaging portion moves from the engaging position to the retracted position as the opening / closing member rotates from the open position to the closed position.

73. 73. A toner cartridge according to claim 72, wherein said engaging portion is configured to move from said engaging position to said retracted position by said opening / closing member rotating from said open position to said closed position.

74. 74. The toner cartridge according to claim 72 or 73, further comprising a retracted position moving portion provided on the container, which moves the engaging portion from the engaging position to the retracted position as the opening / closing member rotates from the open position to the closed position.

75. 75. A toner cartridge according to claim 74, wherein said retracted position movement portion has a biasing portion for biasing said engaging portion toward said retracted position.

76. 76. A toner cartridge according to claim 74, wherein said retracted position movement portion is formed by a protrusion provided on said container.

77. 76. A toner cartridge according to claim 74, wherein said retracted position movement portion is formed by a recess provided in said container.

78. 78. The toner cartridge according to claim 72, further comprising a retracted position holding portion provided on said container, which holds said engaging portion at said retracted position when said opening / closing member is located at said closed position.

79. 79. A toner cartridge according to claim 72, further comprising an elastic portion for moving the engaging portion from the engaging position to the retracted position as the opening / closing member rotates from the open position to the closed position.

80. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion, 80. A toner cartridge according to claim 79, wherein said support portion comprises said elastic portion.

81. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion and is movable relative to the closing portion, 80. A toner cartridge according to claim 79, wherein said elastic portion is an elastic member for biasing said support portion.

82. 82. A toner cartridge according to claim 79, wherein said elastic portion is made of metal.

83. 83. A toner cartridge according to claim 72, wherein said engaging portion moves from said engaging position to said retracted position by moving at least in the direction of the rotation axis of said opening / closing member.

84. 84. A toner cartridge according to claim 83, wherein said engaging portion moves from said engaging position to said retracted position by moving outward at least in the direction of said rotation axis.

85. 85. A toner cartridge according to claim 72, wherein said engaging portion moves from said engaging position to said retracted position by moving at least in a direction of a radius of rotation of said opening / closing member.

86. 86. A toner cartridge according to claim 85, wherein said engaging portion moves from said engaging position to said retracted position by at least moving inward in the direction of the radius of rotation of said opening / closing member.

87. 87. A toner cartridge according to claim 72, wherein said engaging portion has a first protrusion protruding at least radially outward of said opening / closing member.

88. 88. A toner cartridge according to claim 87, wherein said engaging portion has a second protrusion that protrudes at least downstream in a direction in which said opening / closing member rotates from said closed position to said open position relative to said container.

89. 89. A toner cartridge according to claim 88, wherein said second protrusion is provided on said first protrusion.

90. 90. A toner cartridge according to claim 88, wherein the height of said second protrusion is smaller than the height of said first protrusion.

91. 91. A toner cartridge according to claim 72, wherein said opening / closing member has a support portion that supports said engaging portion.

92. 92. A toner cartridge according to claim 91, wherein said engaging portion moves between said retracted position and said engaging position by deformation of said support portion.

93. 93. A toner cartridge according to claim 91, wherein said engaging portion moves between said retracted position and said engaging position as said supporting portion slides.

94. 94. A toner cartridge according to claim 91, wherein the engaging portion moves between the retracted position and the engaging position by the rotation of the support portion.

95. the opening / closing member has an arm portion extending toward the tip side of the closing portion, 95. A toner cartridge according to claim 72, wherein said engaging portion is provided on a tip side of said arm portion.

96. 96. A toner cartridge according to claim 72, further comprising an engagement position holding portion provided on said container, which holds said engagement portion at said engagement position when said opening / closing member is at said open position.

97. 97. A toner cartridge according to claim 72, wherein said opening / closing member has a locking portion that engages with said container to lock said opening / closing member in said closed position.

98. 98. A toner cartridge according to claim 97, wherein said locking portion is movable relative to said closing portion between a locking position where said opening / closing member is locked and an unlocking position where said locking is released.

99. 99. A toner cartridge according to claim 98, wherein the opening / closing member has an unlocking force receiving portion that receives a force for moving the locking portion from the locked position to the unlocked position.

100. 100. A toner cartridge according to claim 99, wherein said unlocking force receiving portion receives a force from said receiving device when said toner cartridge is mounted in said receiving device.

101. 101. The toner cartridge according to claim 97, further comprising a cover portion that covers the lock portion.

102. The receiving device has a receiving opening for receiving the toner discharged from the discharge opening, and a receiving device side opening / closing member for opening and closing the receiving opening, 102. A toner cartridge according to claim 72, wherein the toner cartridge has a closing force applying portion that applies force to the receiving device side opening / closing member to close the receiving opening when the toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device.

103. 103. A toner cartridge according to claim 102, wherein said closing force applying portion is a protrusion that can be engaged with said receiving device side opening / closing member.

104. 104. A toner cartridge according to claim 102, wherein said closing force applying portion is configured to engage with a hole provided in said receiving device side opening / closing member.

105. a position restricting portion for restricting the position of the toner cartridge when the toner cartridge is inserted into the receiving device; 105. The toner cartridge according to claim 102, wherein the attitude regulating portion regulates the attitude of the toner cartridge so that the closing force applying portion can be engaged with the receiving device side open / close member.

106. the receiving device side opening / closing member is locked in a position to close the receiving opening, 106. The toner cartridge according to claim 102, wherein the closing force applying portion unlocks the receiving device side open-close member when engaged with the receiving device side open-close member.

107. 107. A toner cartridge according to claim 102, wherein when the opening / closing member is in the closed position, the engaging portion is arranged downstream of the discharge port and upstream of the closing force applying portion in a rotational direction in which the opening / closing member rotates from the open position to the closed position relative to the container.

108. 108. The toner cartridge according to claim 102, wherein the closing force applying portion causes the receiving device side opening / closing member to open the receiving opening when the toner cartridge is mounted in the receiving device.

109. The receiving device has a receiving opening for receiving the toner discharged from the discharge opening, and a receiving device side opening / closing member for opening and closing the receiving opening, A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 72 to 108, characterized in that the toner cartridge has an opening force applying portion that applies force to the receiving device side opening / closing member to open the receiving opening when the toner cartridge is attached to the receiving device.

110. 110. A toner cartridge according to claim 109, wherein said opening force applying portion is a step portion provided on said container.

111. The receiving device is a receiving port for receiving the toner discharged from the discharge port; a receiving device side opening / closing member that opens and closes the receiving port; a receiving device side locking member that locks the receiving device side opening / closing member in a position where the receiving opening is closed; and 111. The toner cartridge according to claim 72, wherein the toner cartridge has an unlocking portion for unlocking the receiving device side locking member.

112. 112. A toner cartridge according to claim 111, wherein said unlocking portion is a protrusion that can come into contact with said receiving device side locking member.

113. 113. The toner cartridge according to claim 111, wherein the lock release portion is configured to enter a hole provided in the receiving device side opening / closing member.

114. a position restricting portion for restricting an insertion position of the toner cartridge when the toner cartridge is inserted into the receiving device; 114. The toner cartridge according to claim 111, wherein the attitude regulating portion regulates the insertion attitude of the toner cartridge so that the lock releasing portion contacts the receiving device side locking member.

115. 115. The toner cartridge according to claim 111, wherein the unlocking portion allows the receiving device side locking member to lock the receiving device side opening / closing member when the toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device.

116. A toner cartridge as described in any one of claims 72 to 115, characterized in that the opening / closing member has an opening force receiving portion that can receive a force that moves the opening / closing member from the closed position to the open position as the toner cartridge is attached to the receiving device.

117. 117. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 72 to 116, wherein the toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device by a removal action accompanied by a rotational action.

118. 118. A toner cartridge according to claim 117, wherein said opening / closing member rotates from said open position to said closed position in association with said rotational movement.

119. 119. The toner cartridge according to claim 117 or 118, wherein the toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device by being pulled out substantially linearly from the receiving device after the rotational movement.

120. 120. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 72 to 119, further comprising a guide portion for guiding removal of the toner cartridge from the receiving device.

121. 121. A toner cartridge according to claim 72, wherein said container has an opening / closing guide for guiding the rotation of said opening / closing member.

122. 122. The toner cartridge according to claim 72, further comprising a conveying member for conveying the toner in the container portion toward the discharge port.

123. 123. A toner cartridge according to claim 122, further comprising a rotational force receiving portion capable of receiving a rotational force for driving said conveying member from the outside of said toner cartridge.

124. 124. A toner cartridge according to claim 123, wherein the rotational direction of said rotational force receiving portion is the same as the rotational direction in which said opening / closing member rotates from said open position to said closed position relative to said container.

125. 125. A toner cartridge according to claim 123, wherein the rotational axis of said rotational force receiving portion and the rotational axis of said opening / closing member are disposed at different positions.

126. The container has an arc portion that is substantially arc-shaped; 126. A toner cartridge according to claim 72, wherein said discharge port is provided in said arc portion, and said opening / closing member rotates along said arc portion.

127. 127. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 72 to 126, wherein the container has a cylindrical portion that is substantially cylindrical.

128. 128. A toner cartridge according to claim 127, wherein said opening and closing member rotates along the curved surface of said cylindrical portion.

129. 129. A toner cartridge according to claim 127 or 128, wherein the diameter of said container at the longitudinal end is larger than the diameter of said container in the vicinity of said outlet.

130. 130. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 72 to 129, wherein the closure portion is substantially arc-shaped.

131. 131. The toner cartridge according to claim 72, further comprising a gripping portion for gripping the toner cartridge.

132. a guide portion provided on the container for guiding the toner cartridge in a predetermined insertion direction; A toner cartridge as described in claim 131, characterized in that when the toner cartridge is projected onto a projection plane perpendicular to the rotation axis of the opening / closing member and the toner cartridge is divided into two areas by an imaginary line passing through the rotation axis and parallel to the insertion direction, the gripping portion is located in the same area as the ejection outlet.

133. A toner cartridge that can be mounted to a receiving device by a mounting operation involving a rotational movement, a container having a storage portion for storing toner and an outlet for discharging the toner from the storage portion to the receiving device; an opening / closing member having a closing portion for closing the discharge outlet and an engaging portion movable relative to the closing portion, the opening / closing member being movable relative to the container between (a) an open position where the closing portion opens the discharge outlet, and (b) a closed position where the closing portion closes the discharge outlet; and the engaging portion is movable relative to the closing portion between (c) an engaging position for engaging with the receiving device so as to receive a force for moving the opening / closing member from the open position to the closed position when the toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device, and (d) a retracted position retracted from the engaging position; The toner cartridge is configured so that the engaging portion moves from the retracted position to the engaging position in accordance with the rotational movement.

134. 134. A toner cartridge according to claim 133, wherein said rotational movement moves said engaging portion from said retracted position to said engaging position.

135. 135. A toner cartridge according to claim 133 or 134, further comprising an engagement position moving portion provided on said container, which moves said engagement portion from said retracted position to said engagement position in association with said rotational movement.

136. 136. A toner cartridge according to claim 135, wherein said engaging position moving portion has a biasing portion for biasing said engaging portion toward said engaging position.

137. 137. A toner cartridge according to claim 135, wherein said engaging position moving portion is formed by a protrusion provided on said container.

138. 137. A toner cartridge according to claim 135, wherein said engaging position moving portion is formed by a recess provided in said container.

139. 139. A toner cartridge according to claim 133, further comprising an engagement position holding portion provided on said container, which holds said engagement portion in said engagement position when said opening / closing member is in said open position.

140. 140. A toner cartridge according to claim 133, further comprising an elastic portion for moving said engaging portion from said retracted position to said engaging position in association with said rotational movement.

141. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion, 141. A toner cartridge according to claim 140, wherein said support portion comprises said elastic portion.

142. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion and is movable relative to the closing portion, 141. A toner cartridge according to claim 140, wherein said elastic portion is an elastic member for biasing said support portion.

143. 143. A toner cartridge according to claim 140, wherein said elastic portion is made of metal.

144. The toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device by a removal action that involves a rotational action, 144. The toner cartridge according to claim 133, wherein the engaging portion is configured to move from the engaging position to the retracted position in accordance with the rotational movement in the removal operation.

145. 145. A toner cartridge according to claim 144, wherein said rotational movement in said removal operation causes said engaging portion to move from said engaging position to said retracted position.

146. 146. A toner cartridge according to claim 144 or 145, further comprising a retracted position moving portion provided on said container, which moves said engaging portion from said engaging position to said retracted position in association with said rotating motion in said removing motion.

147. 147. A toner cartridge according to claim 146, wherein said retracted position movement portion has a biasing portion that biases said engaging portion toward said retracted position.

148. 148. A toner cartridge according to claim 146 or 147, wherein said retracted position movement portion is formed by a protrusion provided on said container.

149. 148. A toner cartridge according to claim 146 or 147, wherein said retracted position movement portion is formed by a recess provided in said container.

150. 150. A toner cartridge according to claim 133, further comprising a retracted position holding portion provided on said container, which holds said engaging portion in said retracted position when said opening / closing member is in said closed position.

151. 151. The toner cartridge according to claim 133, further comprising a second elastic portion for moving the engaging portion from the engaging position to the retracted position in association with the rotational movement in the removal operation.

152. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion, 152. A toner cartridge according to claim 151, wherein said support portion comprises said second elastic portion.

153. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion and is movable relative to the closing portion, 153. A toner cartridge according to claim 152, wherein said second elastic portion is an elastic member that biases said support portion.

154. 154. A toner cartridge according to claim 151, wherein said second elastic portion is made of metal.

155. 155. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 133 to 154, wherein said engaging portion moves from said retracted position to said engaging position by moving at least in the direction of the rotation axis of said toner cartridge.

156. 156. A toner cartridge according to claim 155, wherein said engaging portion moves from said retracted position to said engaging position by moving at least inward in the direction of said rotation axis.

157. 157. A toner cartridge according to claim 133, wherein said engaging portion moves from said retracted position to said engaging position by moving at least in a direction of a radius of rotation of said toner cartridge.

158. 158. A toner cartridge according to claim 157, wherein said engaging portion moves from said retracted position to said engaging position by moving at least radially outward in a direction of rotation of said toner cartridge.

159. 159. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 133 to 158, wherein said engaging portion has a first protrusion protruding at least radially outward of said toner cartridge.

160. 160. A toner cartridge according to claim 159, wherein said engaging portion has a second protrusion that protrudes at least upstream in the rotation direction of said toner cartridge during said mounting operation.

161. 161. A toner cartridge according to claim 160, wherein said second protrusion is provided on said first protrusion.

162. 162. A toner cartridge according to claim 160 or 161, wherein the height of said second protrusion is smaller than the height of said first protrusion.

163. 163. A toner cartridge according to claim 132, wherein said opening / closing member has a support portion that supports said engaging portion.

164. 164. A toner cartridge according to claim 163, wherein the engaging portion moves between the retracted position and the engaging position as a result of the support portion being deformed.

165. 165. A toner cartridge according to claim 163 or 164, wherein said engaging portion moves between said retracted position and said engaging position as said supporting portion slides.

166. 166. A toner cartridge according to claim 163, wherein said engaging portion moves between said retracted position and said engaging position by rotation of said support portion.

167. the opening / closing member has an arm portion extending toward the tip side of the closing portion, 167. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 133 to 166, wherein the engaging portion is provided on a tip side of the arm portion.

168. 168. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 133 to 167, wherein the opening / closing member has a locking portion that engages with the container to lock the opening / closing member in the closed position.

169. 169. A toner cartridge according to claim 168, wherein the locking portion is movable relative to the closing portion between a locking position that locks the opening / closing member and an unlocking position that releases the lock.

170. 170. A toner cartridge according to claim 169, wherein the opening / closing member has an unlocking force receiving portion that receives a force for moving the locking portion from the locked position to the unlocked position.

171. 171. A toner cartridge according to claim 170, wherein said unlocking force receiving portion receives a force from said receiving device when said toner cartridge is mounted in said receiving device.

172. 172. The toner cartridge according to claim 166, further comprising a cover portion that covers said lock portion.

173. The receiving device has a receiving opening for receiving the toner discharged from the discharge opening, and a receiving device side opening / closing member for opening and closing the receiving opening, A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 133 to 172, characterized in that the toner cartridge has a closing force applying portion that applies force to the receiving device side opening / closing member to close the receiving opening when the toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device.

174. 174. A toner cartridge according to claim 173, wherein said closing force applying portion is a protrusion that can be engaged with said receiving device side opening / closing member.

175. 175. A toner cartridge according to claim 173 or 174, wherein said closing force applying portion is configured to engage with a hole provided in said receiving device side opening / closing member.

176. a position restricting portion for restricting the position of the toner cartridge when the toner cartridge is inserted into the receiving device; 176. A toner cartridge according to claim 173, wherein said attitude regulating portion regulates the attitude of said toner cartridge so that said closing force applying portion can be engaged with said receiving device side open / close member.

177. the receiving device side opening / closing member is locked in a position to close the receiving opening, 177. A toner cartridge according to claim 173, wherein said closing force applying portion unlocks said receiving device side open-close member in association with said engaging with said receiving device side open-close member.

178. A toner cartridge as described in any one of claims 173 to 177, characterized in that when the opening / closing member is in the closed position, the engagement portion is positioned downstream of the discharge outlet and upstream of the closing force applying portion in the rotation direction of the toner cartridge during the installation operation.

179. 179. A toner cartridge according to claim 173, wherein said closing force applying portion causes said receiving device side opening / closing member to open said receiving opening when said toner cartridge is mounted in said receiving device.

180. The receiving device has a receiving opening for receiving the toner discharged from the discharge opening, and a receiving device side opening / closing member for opening and closing the receiving opening, A toner cartridge as claimed in any one of claims 133 to 179, characterized in that the toner cartridge has an opening force applying portion that applies force to the receiving device side opening / closing member to open the receiving opening when the toner cartridge is attached to the receiving device.

181. 181. A toner cartridge according to claim 180, wherein said opening force applying portion is a step portion provided on said container.

182. The receiving device is a receiving port for receiving the toner discharged from the discharge port; a receiving device side opening / closing member that opens and closes the receiving port; a receiving device side locking member that locks the receiving device side opening / closing member in a position where the receiving opening is closed; and 182. The toner cartridge according to claim 133, wherein the toner cartridge has an unlocking portion for unlocking the receiving device side locking member.

183. 183. A toner cartridge according to claim 182, wherein said unlocking portion is a protrusion that can come into contact with said receiving device side locking member.

184. 184. A toner cartridge according to claim 182 or 183, wherein said lock release portion is configured to enter a hole provided in said receiving device side opening / closing member.

185. a position restricting portion for restricting an insertion position of the toner cartridge when the toner cartridge is inserted into the receiving device; 185. A toner cartridge according to claim 182, wherein said attitude regulating portion regulates the insertion attitude of said toner cartridge so that said lock releasing portion contacts said receiving device side locking member.

186. 186. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 182 to 185, wherein the unlocking portion allows the receiving device side locking member to lock the receiving device side opening / closing member when the toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device.

187. A toner cartridge as described in any one of claims 133 to 186, characterized in that the opening / closing member has an opening force receiving portion that can receive a force that moves the opening / closing member from the closed position to the open position as the toner cartridge is attached to the receiving device.

188. 188. The toner cartridge of any one of claims 133 to 187, wherein the toner cartridge is mounted to the receiving device by being inserted into the receiving device in a substantially linear manner and then performing the rotational movement.

189. 189. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 133 to 188, further comprising a guide portion for guiding the installation of the toner cartridge into the receiving device.

190. 190. A toner cartridge according to claim 133, wherein said container has an opening / closing guide for guiding the movement of said opening / closing member.

191. 191. A toner cartridge according to claim 133, further comprising a conveying member for conveying the toner in said container portion toward said outlet.

192. 192. A toner cartridge according to claim 191, further comprising a rotational force receiving portion capable of receiving a rotational force for driving said conveying member from the outside of said toner cartridge.

193. 193. A toner cartridge according to claim 192, wherein the rotational direction of said rotational force receiving portion is the same as the rotational direction of said toner cartridge during said mounting operation.

194. 194. A toner cartridge according to claim 192 or 193, wherein the rotational axis of said rotational force receiving portion and the rotational axis of said toner cartridge are arranged at different positions.

195. 195. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 133 to 194, wherein the opening and closing member is rotatable relative to the container.

196. The container has an arc portion that is substantially arc-shaped; 196. A toner cartridge according to claim 133, wherein the discharge port is provided in the arc portion, and the opening / closing member rotates along the arc portion.

197. 196. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 133 to 195, wherein the container has a cylindrical portion that is substantially cylindrical in shape.

198. 200. A toner cartridge according to claim 197, wherein the opening and closing member rotates along the curved surface of the cylindrical portion.

199. 200. A toner cartridge according to claim 133, wherein the diameter of said container at the longitudinal ends is greater than the diameter of said container in the vicinity of said outlet.

200. 200. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 133 to 199, wherein the closure portion is substantially arc-shaped.

201. 201. The toner cartridge according to claim 133, further comprising a gripping portion for gripping the toner cartridge.

202. a guide portion provided on the container for guiding the toner cartridge in a predetermined insertion direction; A toner cartridge as described in claim 201, characterized in that when the toner cartridge is projected onto a projection plane perpendicular to the rotation axis of the toner cartridge and the toner cartridge is divided into two areas by an imaginary line passing through the rotation axis and parallel to the insertion direction, the gripping portion is located in the same area as the ejection outlet.

203. A toner cartridge that is removable from a receiving device by a removal action that involves a rotational action, a container having a storage portion for storing toner and an outlet for discharging the toner from the storage portion to the receiving device; an opening / closing member having a closing portion for closing the discharge outlet and an engaging portion movable relative to the closing portion, the opening / closing member being movable relative to the container between (a) an open position where the closing portion opens the discharge outlet, and (b) a closed position where the closing portion closes the discharge outlet; and the engaging portion is movable relative to the closing portion between (c) an engaging position for engaging with the receiving device so as to receive a force for moving the opening / closing member from the open position to the closed position when the toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device, and (d) a retracted position retracted from the engaging position; The toner cartridge is configured so that the engaging portion moves from the engaging position to the retracted position in accordance with the rotational movement.

204. 204. A toner cartridge according to claim 203, wherein said rotational movement causes said engaging portion to move from said engaging position to said retracted position.

205. 205. A toner cartridge according to claim 203, further comprising a retracted position moving portion provided on said container, which moves said engaging portion from said engaging position to said retracted position in association with said rotational movement.

206. 206. A toner cartridge according to claim 205, wherein said retracted position movement portion has a biasing portion for biasing said engaging portion toward said retracted position.

207. 207. A toner cartridge according to claim 205, wherein said retracted position movement portion is formed by a protrusion provided on said container.

208. 207. A toner cartridge according to claim 205 or 206, wherein said retracted position movement portion is formed by a recess provided in said container.

209. 209. A toner cartridge according to claim 203, further comprising a retracted position holding portion provided on said container, which holds said engaging portion in said retracted position when said opening / closing member is in said closed position.

210. 210. A toner cartridge according to claim 203, further comprising an elastic portion for moving said engaging portion from said engaging position to said retracted position in association with said rotational movement.

211. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion, 211. A toner cartridge according to claim 210, wherein said support portion comprises said elastic portion.

212. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion and is movable relative to the closing portion, 211. A toner cartridge according to claim 210, wherein said elastic portion is an elastic member for biasing said support portion.

213. 213. A toner cartridge according to claim 210, wherein said elastic portion is made of metal.

214. 214. A toner cartridge according to claim 203, wherein said engaging portion moves from said engaging position to said retracted position by moving at least in the direction of the rotation axis of said toner cartridge.

215. 215. A toner cartridge according to claim 214, wherein said engaging portion moves from said engaging position to said retracted position by moving outward at least in the direction of said rotation axis.

216. 216. A toner cartridge according to claim 203, wherein said engaging portion moves from said engaging position to said retracted position by moving at least in a direction of a radius of rotation of said toner cartridge.

217. 217. A toner cartridge according to claim 216, wherein said engaging portion moves from said engaging position to said retracted position by moving at least radially inward in the direction of rotation of said toner cartridge.

218. 218. A toner cartridge according to claim 203, wherein said engaging portion has a first protrusion protruding at least radially outward of said toner cartridge.

219. 219. A toner cartridge according to claim 218, wherein said engaging portion has a second protrusion that protrudes at least downstream in the rotation direction of said toner cartridge during said removal operation.

220. 220. A toner cartridge according to claim 219, wherein said second protrusion is provided on said first protrusion.

221. 221. A toner cartridge according to claim 219 or 220, wherein the height of said second protrusion is smaller than the height of said first protrusion.

222. 222. A toner cartridge according to claim 203, wherein said opening / closing member has a support portion that supports said engaging portion.

223. 223. A toner cartridge according to claim 222, wherein said engaging portion moves between said retracted position and said engaging position as a result of said support portion being deformed.

224. 224. A toner cartridge according to claim 222 or 223, wherein said engaging portion moves between said retracted position and said engaging position as said supporting portion slides.

225. 225. A toner cartridge according to claim 222, wherein the engaging portion moves between the retracted position and the engaging position by rotation of the support portion.

226. the opening / closing member has an arm portion extending toward the tip side of the closing portion, 226. A toner cartridge according to claim 203, wherein the engaging portion is provided on a tip side of the arm portion.

227. 227. A toner cartridge according to claim 203, further comprising an engagement position holding portion provided on said container, which holds said engagement portion in said engagement position when said opening / closing member is in said open position.

228. 228. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 203 to 227, wherein the opening / closing member has a locking portion that engages with the container to lock the opening / closing member in the closed position.

229. 229. A toner cartridge according to claim 228, wherein the locking portion is movable relative to the closing portion between a locking position that locks the opening / closing member and an unlocking position that releases the lock.

230. 230. A toner cartridge according to claim 229, wherein the opening / closing member has an unlocking force receiving portion that receives a force for moving the locking portion from the locked position to the unlocked position.

231. 231. A toner cartridge according to claim 230, wherein said unlocking force receiving portion receives a force from said receiving device when said toner cartridge is mounted in said receiving device.

232. 232. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 228 to 231, further comprising a cover portion that covers said lock portion.

233. The receiving device has a receiving opening for receiving the toner discharged from the discharge opening, and a receiving device side opening / closing member for opening and closing the receiving opening, A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 203 to 232, characterized in that the toner cartridge has a closing force applying portion that applies force to the receiving device side opening / closing member to close the receiving opening when the toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device.

234. 234. A toner cartridge according to claim 233, wherein said closing force applying portion is a protrusion that can be engaged with said receiving device side opening / closing member.

235. 235. A toner cartridge according to claim 233 or 234, wherein said closing force applying portion is configured to engage with a hole provided in said receiving device side opening / closing member.

236. a position restricting portion for restricting the position of the toner cartridge when the toner cartridge is inserted into the receiving device; 236. A toner cartridge according to claim 233, wherein said attitude regulating portion regulates the attitude of said toner cartridge so that said closing force applying portion can be engaged with said receiving device side open / close member.

237. the receiving device side opening / closing member is locked in a position to close the receiving opening, 237. A toner cartridge according to claim 233, wherein said closing force applying portion unlocks said receiving device side open-close member in association with engagement with said receiving device side open-close member.

238. A toner cartridge as described in any one of claims 233 to 237, characterized in that when the opening / closing member is in the closed position, the engagement portion is positioned upstream of the discharge outlet and downstream of the closing force applying portion in the rotation direction of the toner cartridge during the removal operation.

239. 239. A toner cartridge according to claim 233, wherein said closing force applying portion causes said receiving device side opening / closing member to open said receiving opening when said toner cartridge is mounted in said receiving device.

240. The receiving device has a receiving opening for receiving the toner discharged from the discharge opening, and a receiving device side opening / closing member for opening and closing the receiving opening, A toner cartridge as claimed in any one of claims 203 to 239, characterized in that the toner cartridge has an opening force applying portion that applies force to the receiving device side opening / closing member to open the receiving opening when the toner cartridge is attached to the receiving device.

241. 241. A toner cartridge according to claim 240, wherein said opening force applying portion is a stepped portion provided on said container.

242. The receiving device is a receiving port for receiving the toner discharged from the discharge port; a receiving device side opening / closing member that opens and closes the receiving port; a receiving device side locking member that locks the receiving device side opening / closing member in a position where the receiving opening is closed; and 241. A toner cartridge according to claim 203, wherein said toner cartridge has an unlocking portion for unlocking said receiving device side locking member.

243. 243. A toner cartridge according to claim 242, wherein said unlocking portion is a protrusion capable of coming into contact with said receiving device side locking member.

244. 244. A toner cartridge according to claim 242 or 243, wherein said unlocking portion is configured to enter a hole provided in said receiving device side opening / closing member.

245. a position restricting portion for restricting an insertion position of the toner cartridge when the toner cartridge is inserted into the receiving device; 245. A toner cartridge according to claim 242, wherein said attitude regulating portion regulates the insertion attitude of said toner cartridge so that said lock releasing portion contacts said receiving device side locking member.

246. 246. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 242 to 245, wherein the unlocking portion allows the receiving device side locking member to lock the receiving device side opening / closing member when the toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device.

247. A toner cartridge as described in any one of claims 203 to 246, characterized in that the opening / closing member has an opening force receiving portion that can receive a force that moves the opening / closing member from the closed position to the open position as the toner cartridge is attached to the receiving device.

248. 248. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 203 to 247, wherein the toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device by being pulled out from the receiving device in a substantially linear manner after the rotational movement.

249. 248. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 203 to 247, further comprising a guide portion for guiding the installation of the toner cartridge into the receiving device.

250. 250. A toner cartridge according to claim 203, wherein said container has an opening / closing guide for guiding the movement of said opening / closing member.

251. 251. A toner cartridge according to claim 203, further comprising a conveying member for conveying the toner in the container portion toward the discharge port.

252. 252. A toner cartridge according to claim 251, further comprising a rotational force receiving portion capable of receiving a rotational force for driving said conveying member from outside said toner cartridge.

253. 253. A toner cartridge according to claim 252, wherein the rotational direction of said rotational force receiving portion is opposite to the rotational direction of said toner cartridge during said removal operation.

254. 254. A toner cartridge according to claim 252 or 253, wherein the rotational axis of said rotational force receiving portion and the rotational axis of said toner cartridge are arranged at different positions.

255. 255. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 203 to 254, wherein the opening and closing member is rotatable relative to the container.

256. The container has an arc portion that is substantially arc-shaped; 256. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 203 to 255, wherein the discharge port is provided in the arc portion, and the opening / closing member rotates along the arc portion.

257. 257. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 203 to 256, wherein the container has a cylindrical portion that is substantially cylindrical in shape.

258. 258. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 203 to 257, wherein the opening / closing member rotates along a curved surface of the cylindrical portion.

259. 259. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 203 to 258, wherein the diameter of said container at the longitudinal ends is larger than the diameter of said container in the vicinity of said outlet.

260. 260. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 203 to 259, wherein the closure portion is substantially arc-shaped.

261. 261. The toner cartridge according to any one of claims 203 to 260, further comprising a grip for gripping the toner cartridge.

262. a guide portion provided on the container for guiding the toner cartridge in a predetermined insertion direction; A toner cartridge as described in claim 261, characterized in that when the toner cartridge is projected onto a projection plane perpendicular to the rotation axis of the toner cartridge and the toner cartridge is divided into two areas by an imaginary line passing through the rotation axis and parallel to the insertion direction, the gripping portion is located in the same area as the ejection outlet.

263. A toner cartridge that is detachable from a receiving device, a container having a storage portion for storing toner and an outlet for discharging the toner from the storage portion to the receiving device; a closing portion for closing the discharge port and an engaging portion movable relative to the closing portion, an opening / closing member that can move relative to the container between (a) an open position that causes the closing portion to open the discharge outlet, and (b) a closed position that causes the closing portion to close the discharge outlet, and the engaging portion can move relative to the closing portion between (c) an engaging position for engaging with the receiving device so as to receive a force for moving the opening / closing member from the open position to the closed position when the toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device, and (d) a retracted position retracted from the engaging position; a retracted position movement unit provided on the container that moves the engagement unit from the engagement position to the retracted position as the opening / closing member moves from the open position to the closed position; A toner cartridge comprising:

264. 264. A toner cartridge according to claim 263, wherein said retracted position movement portion has a biasing portion for biasing said engaging portion toward said retracted position.

265. 265. A toner cartridge according to claim 263 or 264, wherein said retracted position movement portion is formed by a convex portion provided on said container.

266. 265. A toner cartridge according to claim 263 or 264, wherein said retracted position movement portion is formed by a recess provided in said container.

267. 267. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 263 to 266, further comprising a retracted position holding portion provided on said container, which holds said engaging portion in said retracted position when said opening / closing member is in said closed position.

268. 268. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 263 to 267, further comprising an elastic portion for moving the engaging portion from the engaging position to the retracted position as the opening / closing member moves from the open position to the closed position.

269. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion, A toner cartridge according to claim 268, characterized in that the support portion comprises the elastic portion.

270. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion and is movable relative to the closing portion, A toner cartridge according to claim 268, wherein said elastic portion is an elastic member for biasing said support portion.

271. 271. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 268 to 270, wherein said elastic portion is made of metal.

272. A toner cartridge as described in any one of claims 263 to 271, characterized in that it has an engagement position movement portion provided on the container that moves the engagement portion from the retracted position to the engagement position as the opening / closing member rotates from the open position to the closed position.

273. 273. A toner cartridge according to claim 272, wherein said retracted position movement portion has a biasing portion for biasing said engaging portion toward said engaging position.

274. 274. A toner cartridge according to claim 272 or 273, wherein said engaging position moving portion is formed by a protrusion provided on said container.

275. 274. A toner cartridge according to claim 272 or 273, wherein said engaging position moving portion is formed by a recess provided in said container.

276. 276. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 263 to 275, further comprising an engagement position holding portion provided on said container, which holds said engagement portion in said engagement position when said opening / closing member is in said open position.

277. A toner cartridge as described in any one of claims 263 to 276, characterized in that it has a second elastic portion for moving the engagement portion from the retracted position to the engagement position as the opening / closing member rotates from the closed position to the open position.

278. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion, 278. A toner cartridge according to claim 277, wherein said support portion comprises said second elastic portion.

279. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion and is movable relative to the closing portion, 278. A toner cartridge according to claim 277, wherein said second elastic portion is an elastic member for biasing said support portion.

280. 280. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 277 to 279, wherein said second elastic portion is made of metal.

281. 281. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 263 to 280, wherein said engaging portion moves from said engaging position to said retracted position by moving at least in the longitudinal direction of said closing portion.

282. 282. A toner cartridge according to claim 281, wherein said engaging portion moves from said engaging position to said retracted position by moving outward in at least said longitudinal direction.

283. 283. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 263 to 282, wherein said engaging portion has a first protrusion.

284. A toner cartridge according to Claim 283, characterized in that said engaging portion has a second protrusion provided on said first protrusion and protruding in a direction different from that of said first protrusion.

285. 285. A toner cartridge according to claim 284, wherein the height of said second protrusion is less than the height of said first protrusion.

286. 286. A toner cartridge according to claim 263, wherein said opening / closing member has a support portion that supports said engaging portion.

287. 287. A toner cartridge according to claim 286, wherein the engaging portion moves between the retracted position and the engaging position as a result of the support portion being deformed.

288. 288. A toner cartridge according to claim 286 or 287, wherein said supporting portion slides, thereby causing said engaging portion to move between said retracted position and said engaging position.

289. 289. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 286 to 288, wherein the engaging portion moves between the retracted position and the engaging position by rotation of the support portion.

290. the opening / closing member has an arm portion extending toward the tip side of the closing portion, 290. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 263 to 289, wherein the engaging portion is provided on a tip side of the arm portion.

291. 291. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 263 to 290, further comprising an engagement position holding portion provided on said container, which holds said engagement portion in said engagement position when said opening / closing member is in said open position.

292. 292. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 263 to 291, wherein the opening / closing member has a locking portion that engages with the container to lock the opening / closing member in the closed position.

293. 300. A toner cartridge according to claim 292, wherein the locking portion is movable relative to the closing portion between a locking position that locks the opening / closing member and an unlocking position that releases the lock.

294. 300. A toner cartridge according to claim 293, wherein the opening / closing member has an unlocking force receiving portion that receives a force to move the locking portion from the locked position to the unlocked position.

295. 300. A toner cartridge according to claim 294, wherein said unlocking force receiving portion receives a force from said receiving device when said toner cartridge is mounted in said receiving device.

296. 296. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 292 to 295, further comprising a cover portion that covers the lock portion.

297. The receiving device has a receiving opening for receiving the toner discharged from the discharge opening, and a receiving device side opening / closing member for opening and closing the receiving opening, A toner cartridge as described in any one of claims 263 to 296, characterized in that the toner cartridge has a closing force applying portion that applies force to the receiving device side opening / closing member to close the receiving opening when the toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device.

298. 300. A toner cartridge according to claim 296, wherein said closing force applying portion is a protrusion that can be engaged with said receiving device side opening / closing member.

299. 299. A toner cartridge according to claim 297 or 298, wherein said closing force applying portion is configured to engage with a hole provided in said receiving device side opening / closing member.

300. a position restricting portion for restricting the position of the toner cartridge when the toner cartridge is inserted into the receiving device; 300. A toner cartridge according to claim 297, wherein said attitude regulating portion regulates the attitude of said toner cartridge so that said closing force applying portion can be engaged with said receiving device side open / close member.

301. the receiving device side opening / closing member is locked in a position to close the receiving opening, 301. A toner cartridge according to claim 297, wherein said closing force applying portion unlocks said receiving device side open-close member in association with said engaging with said receiving device side open-close member.

302. 302. A toner cartridge according to claim 297, wherein said closing force applying portion causes said receiving device side opening / closing member to open said receiving opening when said toner cartridge is mounted in said receiving device.

303. The receiving device has a receiving opening for receiving the toner discharged from the discharge opening, and a receiving device side opening / closing member for opening and closing the receiving opening, A toner cartridge as described in any one of claims 263 to 302, characterized in that the toner cartridge has an opening force applying portion that applies force to the receiving device side opening / closing member to open the receiving opening when the toner cartridge is installed in the receiving device.

304. 304. A toner cartridge according to claim 303, wherein said opening force applying portion is a step portion provided on said container.

305. The receiving device is a receiving port for receiving the toner discharged from the discharge port; a receiving device side opening / closing member that opens and closes the receiving port; a receiving device side locking member that locks the receiving device side opening / closing member in a position where the receiving opening is closed; and 305. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 263 to 304, wherein the toner cartridge has an unlocking portion for unlocking the receiving device side locking member.

306. 306. A toner cartridge according to claim 305, wherein said unlocking portion is a protrusion that can come into contact with said receiving device side locking member.

307. 307. A toner cartridge according to claim 305 or 306, wherein said lock release portion is configured to enter a hole provided in said receiving device side opening / closing member.

308. a position restricting portion for restricting an insertion position of the toner cartridge when the toner cartridge is inserted into the receiving device; 308. A toner cartridge according to claim 305, wherein said attitude regulating portion regulates the insertion attitude of said toner cartridge so that said lock releasing portion contacts said receiving device side locking member.

309. 309. A toner cartridge according to claim 305, wherein the unlocking portion allows the receiving device side locking member to lock the receiving device side opening / closing member when the toner cartridge is removed from the receiving device.

310. A toner cartridge as described in any one of claims 263 to 309, characterized in that the opening / closing member has an opening force receiving portion that can receive a force that moves the opening / closing member from the closed position to the open position as the toner cartridge is attached to the receiving device.

311. 311. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 263 to 310, further comprising a guide portion for guiding the installation of the toner cartridge into the receiving device.

312. 312. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 263 to 311, wherein the container has an opening / closing guide for guiding the movement of the opening / closing member.

313. 313. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 263 to 312, further comprising a transport member for transporting the toner in the container portion toward the discharge port.

314. 314. A toner cartridge according to claim 313, further comprising a rotational force receiving portion capable of receiving a rotational force for driving said conveying member from outside said toner cartridge.

315. 315. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 263 to 314, further comprising a grip for gripping the toner cartridge.

316. a toner cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 315; the receiving device having a mounting portion for mounting the toner cartridge; A toner supply mechanism comprising:

317. In a toner cartridge for electrophotographic image formation, a container for containing toner; and a discharge port for discharging the toner from the container; a container having a closing portion for closing the discharge port and an engaging portion movable relative to the closing portion, an opening / closing member that can rotate relative to the container between an open position for causing the closure portion to open the outlet and a closed position for causing the closure portion to close the outlet; and A toner cartridge characterized in that the engagement portion is configured to move relative to the closing portion at least in the direction of the rotation axis of the opening / closing member as the opening / closing member rotates between the closed position and the open position.

318. A toner cartridge as described in claim 317, wherein the engagement portion is configured to move relative to the closing portion at least in the direction of the rotation axis of the opening / closing member when the opening / closing member rotates between the closed position and the open position.

319. A toner cartridge according to claim 318, characterized in that the engaging portion moves outward at least in the direction of the rotation axis of the opening / closing member as the opening / closing member rotates from the open position to the closed position.

320. 320. A toner cartridge according to claim 318 or 319, wherein said engaging portion moves at least inward in the direction of the rotation axis of said opening / closing member as said opening / closing member rotates from said closed position to said open position.

321. 321. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 317 to 320, further comprising a first moving portion provided on the container that moves the engaging portion at least outward in the axial direction as the opening / closing member rotates.

322. A toner cartridge as described in any one of claims 317 to 321, characterized in that it has a first moving portion provided on the container that moves the engagement portion at least in the axial direction as the opening / closing member rotates from the open position to the closed position.

323. 323. A toner cartridge according to claim 321 or 322, wherein said first moving portion has a biasing portion for biasing said engaging portion in said axial direction.

324. 324. A toner cartridge according to claim 321, wherein said first moving portion is formed by a protrusion provided on said container.

325. 324. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 321 to 323, wherein said first moving portion is formed by a recess provided in said container.

326. 326. A toner cartridge according to claim 317, further comprising an elastic portion for moving said engaging portion at least outward in the axial direction as said opening / closing member rotates.

327. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion, 327. A toner cartridge according to claim 326, wherein said support portion comprises said elastic portion.

328. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion and is movable relative to the closing portion, 327. A toner cartridge according to claim 326, wherein said elastic portion is an elastic member for biasing said support portion.

329. 329. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 326 to 328, wherein said elastic portion is made of metal.

330. 330. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 317 to 329, further comprising a second moving portion provided on the container that moves the engaging portion at least inward in the axial direction as the opening / closing member rotates.

331. A toner cartridge as described in any one of claims 317 to 330, characterized in that it has a second moving portion provided on the container that moves the engagement portion at least in the axial direction as the opening / closing member rotates from the closed position to the open position.

332. 332. A toner cartridge according to claim 330 or 331, wherein said second moving portion has a biasing portion for biasing said engaging portion in said axial direction.

333. 333. A toner cartridge according to claim 330, wherein said second moving portion is formed by a protrusion provided on said container.

334. 334. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 330 to 333, wherein said second moving portion is formed by a recess provided in said container.

335. 335. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 317 to 334, further comprising a second elastic portion for moving said engaging portion at least inward in the axial direction as said opening / closing member rotates.

336. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion, 336. A toner cartridge according to claim 335, wherein said support portion comprises said second elastic portion.

337. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion and is movable relative to the closing portion, 336. A toner cartridge according to claim 335, wherein said second elastic portion is an elastic member for biasing said support portion.

338. 338. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 335 to 337, wherein the second elastic portion is made of metal.

339. A toner cartridge as described in any one of claims 317 to 338, characterized in that the engagement portion is configured to move from a first position to a second position as the opening / closing member rotates from the closed position to the open position, and to move from the second position toward the first position as the opening / closing member rotates from the open position to the closed position.

340. 340. A toner cartridge according to claim 339, further comprising a first holding portion provided on said container, which holds the position of said engaging portion at said first position when said opening / closing member is in said closed position.

341. A toner cartridge as described in claim 339 or 340, further comprising a second holding portion provided on the container, which holds the position of the engagement portion at a second position when the opening / closing member is in the open position.

342. 342. A toner cartridge according to claim 317, wherein said engaging portion has a first protrusion protruding at least radially outward of said opening / closing member.

343. A toner cartridge according to claim 342, wherein the engaging portion has a second protrusion that protrudes at least downstream in the direction in which the opening / closing member rotates from the closed position to the open position relative to the container.

344. 344. A toner cartridge according to claim 343, wherein said second protrusion is provided on said first protrusion.

345. A toner cartridge according to claim 344, wherein the height of said second protrusion is less than the height of said first protrusion.

346. 346. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 317 to 345, wherein said opening / closing member has a support portion that supports said engaging portion.

347. A toner cartridge according to claim 346, characterized in that the engaging portion moves as a result of the support portion being deformed.

348. A toner cartridge according to claim 346 or 347, characterized in that the engaging portion moves as the supporting portion slides.

349. 349. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 346 to 348, wherein the engaging portion moves as the support portion rotates.

350. the opening / closing member has an arm portion extending toward the tip side of the closing portion, 350. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 317 to 349, wherein the engaging portion is provided on the tip side of the arm portion.

351. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 317 to 350, characterized in that the engaging portion is configured to be able to receive a force from outside the toner cartridge for rotating the opening / closing member from the open position to the closed position.

352. 352. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 317 to 351, wherein the opening / closing member has a locking portion that engages with the container to lock the opening / closing member in the closed position.

353. 353. A toner cartridge according to claim 352, wherein the locking portion is movable relative to the closing portion between a locking position that locks the opening / closing member and an unlocking position that releases the lock.

354. 354. A toner cartridge according to claim 353, wherein the opening / closing member has an unlocking force receiving portion that receives a force to move the locking portion from the locked position to the unlocked position.

355. 355. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 352 to 354, further comprising a cover portion for covering said lock portion.

356. 356. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 317 to 355, characterized in that the container has two container-side protrusions provided thereon and protruding in substantially the same direction.

357. When the two container-side protrusions and the discharge port are projected onto the rotation axis of the opening / closing member, A toner cartridge according to claim 356, characterized in that the discharge port is included in the area sandwiched between the two container side protrusions.

358. A toner cartridge as described in claim 356 or 357, characterized in that when the opening / closing member is in the closed position, the engagement portion is positioned downstream of the discharge outlet and upstream of the two container side protrusions in the rotational direction in which the opening / closing member rotates from the open position to the closed position relative to the container.

359. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 317 to 358, further comprising a guide portion for guiding the toner cartridge.

360. 360. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 317 to 359, wherein said container has an opening / closing guide for guiding the rotation of said opening / closing member.

361. 361. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 317 to 360, further comprising a transport member for transporting the toner in the container portion toward the discharge port.

362. A toner cartridge according to claim 361, characterized in that it has a rotational force receiving portion that can receive a rotational force for driving said conveying member from outside said toner cartridge.

363. 363. A toner cartridge according to claim 361 or 362, wherein the rotation axis of said rotational force receiving portion and the rotation axis of said opening / closing member are arranged at different positions.

364. The container has an arc portion that is substantially arc-shaped; 364. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 317 to 363, wherein the discharge port is provided in the arc portion, and the opening / closing member rotates along the arc portion.

365. 365. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 317 to 364, wherein the container has a cylindrical portion that is substantially cylindrical in shape.

366. A toner cartridge according to claim 365, characterized in that the opening and closing member rotates along the curved surface of the cylindrical portion.

367. 367. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 317 to 366, wherein the diameter of the container at the longitudinal ends is greater than the diameter of the container near the outlet.

368. 368. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 317 to 367, wherein the closure portion is substantially arc-shaped.

369. 369. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 317 to 368, further comprising a grip for gripping the toner cartridge.

370. A guide portion is provided along a predetermined direction, A toner cartridge as described in claim 369, characterized in that when the toner cartridge is projected onto a projection plane perpendicular to the rotation axis of the opening / closing member and the toner cartridge is divided into two areas by an imaginary line passing through the rotation axis and parallel to the specified direction, the handle portion is located in the same area as the discharge outlet.

371. In a toner cartridge for electrophotographic image formation, a container for containing toner; and a discharge port for discharging the toner from the container; a container having a closing portion for closing the discharge port and an engaging portion movable relative to the closing portion, an opening / closing member that can rotate relative to the container between an open position for causing the closure portion to open the outlet and a closed position for causing the closure portion to close the outlet; and the engaging portion is exposed at least to the outside in the rotational radius direction of the opening / closing member, A toner cartridge characterized in that the engaging portion is configured to move relative to the closing portion at least in the direction of the radius of rotation of the opening / closing member as the opening / closing member rotates between the closed position and the open position.

372. A toner cartridge according to claim 371, characterized in that the engaging portion moves outward at least in the direction of the radius of rotation when the opening / closing member rotates from the closed position to the open position.

373. 373. A toner cartridge according to claim 371 or 372, wherein the engaging portion moves at least inward in the direction of the rotation radius when the opening / closing member rotates from the open position to the closed position.

374. A toner cartridge as described in any one of claims 371 to 373, characterized in that it has a moving portion provided on the container that moves the engagement portion at least in the direction of the rotation radius as the opening / closing member moves from the closed position to the open position.

375. A toner cartridge according to claim 374, further comprising a moving portion that moves said engaging portion at least radially outward in accordance with rotation of said opening / closing member.

376. 376. A toner cartridge according to claim 374 or 375, wherein said moving portion has a biasing portion for biasing said engaging portion in said rotation radius direction.

377. 377. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 371 to 376, further comprising an elastic portion for moving said engaging portion at least in the direction of said radius of rotation as said opening / closing member rotates.

378. A toner cartridge according to claim 377, wherein said elastic portion moves said engaging portion as said opening / closing member moves from said open position to said closed position.

379. 379. A toner cartridge according to claim 377 or 378, wherein said elastic portion moves said engaging portion at least radially inward in the rotational direction.

380. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion, 380. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 377 to 379, wherein the support portion has the elastic portion.

381. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion and is movable relative to the closing portion, 380. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 377 to 379, wherein said elastic portion is an elastic member for biasing said support portion.

382. 382. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 377 to 381, wherein the elastic portion is made of metal.

383. A toner cartridge as described in any one of claims 371 to 382, ​​characterized in that the engagement portion is configured to move from a first position to a second position as the opening / closing member rotates from the closed position to the open position, and to move from the second position toward the first position as the opening / closing member rotates from the open position to the closed position.

384. A toner cartridge according to claim 383, further comprising a retaining portion provided on the container that retains the position of the engaging portion in the second position when the opening / closing member is in the open position.

385. 385. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 371 to 384, wherein said engaging portion has a first protrusion protruding at least radially outward of said opening / closing member.

386. A toner cartridge according to claim 385, characterized in that the engaging portion has a second protrusion that protrudes at least downstream in the direction in which the opening / closing member rotates from the closed position to the open position relative to the container.

387. 387. A toner cartridge according to claim 386, wherein said second protrusion is provided on said first protrusion.

388. 388. A toner cartridge according to claim 387, wherein the height of said second protrusion is less than the height of said first protrusion.

389. 389. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 371 to 388, wherein said opening / closing member has a support portion that supports said engaging portion.

390. A toner cartridge according to claim 389, characterized in that the engaging portion moves as a result of the support portion being deformed.

391. 391. A toner cartridge according to claim 389 or 390, wherein the engaging portion moves as the supporting portion slides.

392. 392. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 389 to 391, wherein the engaging portion moves as a result of the support portion rotating.

393. the opening / closing member has an arm portion extending toward the tip side of the closing portion, 393. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 389 to 392, wherein the engaging portion is provided on the tip side of the arm portion.

394. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 371 to 393, characterized in that the engaging portion is configured to be able to receive a force from outside the toner cartridge for rotating the opening / closing member from the open position to the closed position.

395. 400. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 371 to 394, wherein the opening / closing member has a locking portion that engages with the container to lock the opening / closing member in the closed position.

396. 396. A toner cartridge according to claim 395, wherein the locking portion is movable relative to the closing portion between a locking position that locks the opening / closing member and an unlocking position that releases the lock.

397. 396. A toner cartridge according to claim 395, wherein the opening / closing member has an unlocking force receiving portion that receives a force to move the locking portion from the locked position to the unlocked position.

398. 400. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 395 to 397, further comprising a cover portion for covering said lock portion.

399. 400. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 371 to 398, characterized in that the container has two container-side protrusions provided thereon and protruding in approximately the same direction.

400. When the two container-side protrusions and the discharge port are projected onto the rotation axis of the opening / closing member, A toner cartridge according to claim 399, characterized in that the discharge port is included in the area sandwiched between the two container side protrusions.

401. A toner cartridge as described in claim 400, characterized in that when the opening / closing member is in the closed position, the engagement portion is positioned downstream of the discharge outlet and upstream of the two container side protrusions in the rotational direction in which the opening / closing member rotates from the open position to the closed position relative to the container.

402. 402. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 371 to 401, further comprising a guide portion for guiding the toner cartridge.

403. 403. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 371 to 402, wherein the container has an opening / closing guide for guiding the rotation of the opening / closing member.

404. 404. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 371 to 403, further comprising a transport member for transporting the toner in the container portion toward the discharge port.

405. 405. A toner cartridge according to claim 404, further comprising a rotational force receiving portion capable of receiving a rotational force for driving said conveying member from the outside of said toner cartridge.

406. 406. A toner cartridge according to claim 404 or 405, wherein the rotation axis of said rotational force receiving portion and the rotation axis of said opening / closing member are arranged at different positions.

407. The container has an arc portion that is substantially arc-shaped; 407. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 371 to 406, wherein the discharge port is provided in the arc portion, and the opening / closing member rotates along the arc portion.

408. 408. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 371 to 407, wherein the container has a cylindrical portion that is substantially cylindrical in shape.

409. A toner cartridge according to claim 408, characterized in that the opening and closing member rotates along the curved surface of the cylindrical portion.

410. 410. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 371 to 409, wherein the diameter of said container at the longitudinal end is greater than the diameter of said container in the vicinity of said outlet.

411. 411. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 371 to 410, wherein the closure portion is substantially arc-shaped.

412. 412. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 371 to 411, comprising a grip for gripping the toner cartridge.

413. A guide portion is provided along a predetermined direction, When the toner cartridge is projected onto a projection plane perpendicular to the rotation axis of the opening / closing member, A toner cartridge as described in claim 412, characterized in that when the toner cartridge is divided into two regions by an imaginary line passing through the rotation axis and parallel to the predetermined direction, the gripping portion is located in the same region as the discharge port.

414. In a toner cartridge for electrophotographic image formation, a container for containing toner; and a discharge port for discharging the toner from the container; a container having a closing portion for closing the discharge port and an engaging portion movable relative to the closing portion, an opening / closing member that can rotate relative to the container between an open position for causing the closure portion to open the outlet and a closed position for causing the closure portion to close the outlet; and The engagement portion is a first protrusion protruding at least radially outward of the opening / closing member; a second protrusion provided on the first protrusion, protruding toward a downstream side in a direction in which the opening / closing member rotates from the closed position to the open position relative to the container; and The toner cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the engaging portion moves relative to the closing portion as the opening / closing member rotates between the closed position and the open position.

415. A toner cartridge according to claim 414, characterized in that the second protrusion is provided on the tip side of the first protrusion.

416. 416. A toner cartridge according to claim 414 or 415, wherein the height of said second protrusion is smaller than the height of said first protrusion.

417. 417. A toner cartridge according to claim 414, further comprising a first moving portion provided on the container for moving the engaging portion when the opening / closing member rotates from the open position to the closed position.

418. 417. A toner cartridge according to claim 414, further comprising a second moving portion provided on the container for moving the engaging portion when the opening / closing member rotates from the closed position to the open position.

419. 419. A toner cartridge according to claim 414, wherein said opening / closing member has a support portion that supports said engaging portion.

420. A toner cartridge according to claim 419, characterized in that the engaging portion moves as a result of the support portion being deformed.

421. 421. A toner cartridge according to claim 419 or 420, wherein said engaging portion moves as said supporting portion slides.

422. 422. A toner cartridge according to claim 419, wherein the engaging portion moves as a result of the support portion rotating.

423. the opening / closing member has an arm portion extending toward the tip side of the closing portion, 423. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 414 to 422, wherein the engaging portion is provided on a tip side of the arm portion.

424. 424. A toner cartridge according to claim 414, wherein the engaging portion is configured to be able to receive a force from outside the toner cartridge for rotating the opening / closing member from the open position to the closed position.

425. 424. A toner cartridge according to claim 414, wherein the opening / closing member has a locking portion that engages with the container to lock the opening / closing member in the closed position.

426. 426. A toner cartridge according to claim 425, wherein the locking portion is movable relative to the closing portion between a locking position that locks the opening / closing member and an unlocking position that releases the lock.

427. 427. A toner cartridge according to claim 426, wherein the opening / closing member has an unlocking force receiving portion that receives a force to move the locking portion from the locked position to the unlocked position.

428. 428. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 425 to 427, further comprising a cover portion for covering said lock portion.

429. 429. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 414 to 428, characterized in that the container has two container-side protrusions provided thereon and protruding in substantially the same direction.

430. When the two container-side protrusions and the discharge port are projected onto the rotation axis of the opening / closing member, A toner cartridge according to claim 429, characterized in that the discharge port is included in the area sandwiched between the two container-side protrusions.

431. A toner cartridge as described in claim 429 or 430, characterized in that when the opening / closing member is in the closed position, the engagement portion is positioned downstream of the discharge outlet and upstream of the two container side protrusions in the rotational direction in which the opening / closing member rotates from the open position to the closed position relative to the container.

432. 432. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 414 to 431, further comprising a guide portion for guiding the toner cartridge.

433. 433. A toner cartridge according to claim 414, wherein said container has an opening / closing guide for guiding the movement of said opening / closing member.

434. 434. A toner cartridge according to claim 414, further comprising a transport member for transporting the toner in said container portion toward said outlet.

435. 435. A toner cartridge according to claim 434, further comprising a rotational force receiving portion capable of receiving a rotational force for driving said conveying member from outside said toner cartridge.

436. A toner cartridge according to claim 434 or 435, wherein the rotation axis of said rotational force receiving portion and the rotation axis of said opening / closing member are arranged at different positions.

437. The container has an arc portion that is substantially arc-shaped; 437. A toner cartridge according to claim 414, wherein the discharge port is provided in the arc portion, and the opening / closing member rotates along the arc portion.

438. 438. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 414 to 437, wherein the container has a cylindrical portion that is substantially cylindrical in shape.

439. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 438 to 439, characterized in that the opening and closing member rotates along the curved surface of the cylindrical portion.

440. 440. A toner cartridge according to claim 414, wherein the diameter of said container at the longitudinal end is greater than the diameter of said container in the vicinity of said outlet.

441. 441. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 414 to 440, wherein the closure portion is substantially arc-shaped.

442. 442. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 414 to 441, further comprising a grip for gripping the toner cartridge.

443. A guide portion is provided along a predetermined direction, A toner cartridge as described in claim 442, characterized in that when the toner cartridge is projected onto a projection plane perpendicular to the rotation axis of the opening / closing member and the toner cartridge is divided into two areas by an imaginary line passing through the rotation axis and parallel to the specified direction, the gripping portion is located in the same area as the discharge outlet.

444. In a toner cartridge for electrophotographic image formation, a container for containing toner; and a discharge port for discharging the toner from the container; a container having a closing portion for closing the discharge port and an engaging portion movable relative to the closing portion, an opening / closing member movable relative to the container between an open position for causing the closure portion to open the outlet and a closed position for causing the closure portion to close the outlet; a moving portion provided on the container that moves the engaging portion as the opening / closing member moves from the open position to the closed position; A toner cartridge comprising:

445. A toner cartridge according to claim 444, characterized in that the moving portion has a biasing portion for biasing the engaging portion.

446. A toner cartridge according to claim 444 or 445, characterized in that said moving portion moves said engaging portion at least in the longitudinal direction of said closing portion.

447. A toner cartridge according to claim 446, characterized in that the moving portion moves the engaging portion at least outward in the longitudinal direction of the closing portion.

448. 448. A toner cartridge according to claim 444, wherein said moving portion is formed by a convex portion provided on said container.

449. 448. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 444 to 447, wherein said moving portion is formed by a recess provided in said container.

450. 450. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 444 to 449, further comprising an elastic portion for moving said engaging portion as said opening / closing member moves from said open position to said closed position.

451. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion, A toner cartridge according to claim 450, characterized in that the support portion comprises the elastic portion.

452. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion and is movable relative to the closing portion, A toner cartridge according to claim 450, wherein said elastic portion is an elastic member for biasing said support portion.

453. 453. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 450 to 452, wherein said elastic portion is made of metal.

454. A toner cartridge as described in any one of claims 444 to 453, further comprising a second moving portion provided on the container that moves the engaging portion as the opening / closing member moves from the closed position to the open position.

455. A toner cartridge according to claim 454, wherein said second moving portion has a biasing portion for biasing said engaging portion.

456. A toner cartridge according to claim 454 or 455, wherein said second moving portion moves said engaging portion at least in the longitudinal direction of said closing portion.

457. A toner cartridge according to claim 456, characterized in that the second moving portion moves the engaging portion at least inward in the longitudinal direction of the closing portion.

458. 458. A toner cartridge according to claim 454, wherein said second moving portion is formed by a convex portion provided on said container.

459. 458. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 454 to 457, wherein said second moving portion is formed by a recess provided in said container.

460. 460. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 444 to 459, further comprising a second elastic portion for moving the engaging portion as the opening / closing member moves from the closed position to the open position.

461. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion, 461. A toner cartridge according to claim 460, wherein said support portion comprises said second elastic portion.

462. the opening / closing member has a support portion that supports the engagement portion and is movable relative to the closing portion, A toner cartridge according to claim 460, wherein said second elastic portion is an elastic member for biasing said support portion.

463. 463. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 460 to 462, wherein the second elastic portion is made of metal.

464. A toner cartridge as described in any one of claims 444 to 463, characterized in that the engagement portion is configured to move from a first position to a second position as the opening / closing member moves from the closed position to the open position, and to move from the second position toward the first position as the opening / closing member moves from the open position to the closed position.

465. A toner cartridge as described in claim 464, further comprising a first holding portion provided on the container that holds the position of the engagement portion in a first position when the opening / closing member is in the closed position.

466. A toner cartridge as described in claim 464 or 465, further comprising a second holding portion provided on the container, which holds the position of the engagement portion in a second position when the opening / closing member is in the open position.

467. 467. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 444 to 466, wherein said engaging portion has a first protrusion.

468. A toner cartridge according to claim 467, characterized in that the engaging portion has a second protrusion provided on the first protrusion and protruding in a direction different from that of the first protrusion.

469. A toner cartridge according to claim 468, wherein the height of the second protrusion is less than the height of the first protrusion.

470. 469. A toner cartridge according to claim 444, wherein said opening / closing member has a support portion that supports said engaging portion.

471. A toner cartridge according to claim 470, characterized in that the engaging portion moves as a result of the support portion being deformed.

472. 472. A toner cartridge according to claim 470 or 471, wherein said engaging portion moves as said supporting portion slides.

473. 473. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 470 to 472, wherein the engaging portion moves as the support portion rotates.

474. the opening / closing member has an arm portion extending toward the tip side of the closing portion, 474. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 444 to 473, wherein the engaging portion is provided on the tip side of the arm portion.

475. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 444 to 474, characterized in that the engaging portion is configured to be able to receive a force from outside the toner cartridge for moving the opening / closing member from the open position to the closed position.

476. 476. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 444 to 475, wherein the opening / closing member has a locking portion that engages with the container to lock the opening / closing member in the closed position.

477. 477. A toner cartridge according to claim 476, wherein the locking portion is movable relative to the closing portion between a locking position that locks the opening / closing member and an unlocking position that releases the lock.

478. 478. A toner cartridge according to claim 477, wherein the opening / closing member has an unlocking force receiving portion that receives a force to move the locking portion from the locked position to the unlocked position.

479. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 476 to 478, further comprising a cover portion that covers the lock portion.

480. 479. A toner cartridge according to claim 444, further comprising two container-side protrusions provided on said container and protruding in substantially the same direction.

481. 481. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 444 to 480, further comprising a guide portion for guiding the toner cartridge.

482. 482. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 444 to 481, wherein the container has an opening / closing guide for guiding the movement of the opening / closing member.

483. 483. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 444 to 482, further comprising a transport member for transporting the toner in said storage portion toward said discharge port.

484. A toner cartridge according to Claim 483, characterized in that it has a rotational force receiving portion that can receive a rotational force for driving said conveying member from outside said toner cartridge.

485. 485. A toner cartridge according to any one of claims 444 to 484, further comprising a grip for gripping the toner cartridge.

486. In a shutter used in a toner cartridge, a body portion having a substantially arcuate shape; a first arm portion provided at an end portion in a longitudinal direction of the main body portion and extending toward an end side in a lateral direction of the main body portion; a first protrusion provided on a tip side of the first arm portion and protruding outward in a radial direction of the arc shape; and The shutter, wherein the first protrusion is movable relative to the main body at least in the longitudinal direction of the main body.

487. a second protrusion provided on the first protrusion and protruding toward a rear end side of the first arm portion; The shutter of claim 486, characterized in that it has:

488. 488. The shutter of claim 487, wherein the height of the second protrusion is less than the height of the first protrusion.

489. a second arm portion provided at an end portion of the main body portion opposite to the end portion on which the first arm portion is provided in the longitudinal direction, the second arm portion extending toward the end portion in the lateral direction of the main body portion; a third protrusion provided on a tip side of the second arm portion and protruding outward in a radial direction of the substantially arcuate shape; and 489. A shutter according to any one of claims 486 to 488, wherein the third protrusion is movable relative to the main body portion in at least the longitudinal direction of the main body portion.

490. 490. A shutter as described in claim 489, characterized in that it has a fourth protrusion provided on the third protrusion and protruding toward the rear end side of the second arm portion.

491. 491. The shutter of claim 490, wherein the height of the fourth protrusion is less than the height of the third protrusion.

492. a third arm portion disposed between the first arm portion and the main body portion and extending toward the end portion in the short side direction of the main body portion; 492. A shutter according to any one of claims 486 to 491, wherein the third arm portion has a fifth protrusion protruding in a direction toward the first arm portion.

493. 493. The shutter of claim 492, wherein the fifth protrusion is movable relative to the main body portion in at least the longitudinal direction of the main body portion.

494. A shutter as described in claim 493, characterized in that the third arm portion has an inclined portion that is inclined in a direction approaching the main body portion as it approaches the tip side of the third arm portion.

495. a fourth arm portion disposed between the second arm portion and the main body portion and extending toward the end portion in the short side direction of the main body portion; 492. A shutter according to any one of claims 489 to 491, wherein the fourth arm portion has a sixth protrusion protruding in a direction toward the second arm portion.

496. 496. The shutter of claim 495, wherein the sixth protrusion is movable relative to the main body portion at least in the longitudinal direction of the main body portion.

497. A shutter as described in claim 496, characterized in that the fourth arm portion has an inclined portion that is inclined in a direction approaching the main body portion as it approaches the tip side of the fourth arm portion.

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