Developing cartridge

Abstract

To provide a structure that can reduce the number of components in a developing cartridge.SOLUTION: A developing cartridge 1 comprises a developing electrode 60 and a first lever 110. The developing electrode 60 has a first hole 67. The first lever 110 has one end 111, the other end 112, and a cam surface 113. When the one end 111 receives a driving force, the first lever 110 is moved centered on the cam surface 113. The other end 112 of the first lever 110 inserted into the first hole 67 presses an inner surface 670 of the first hole 67. This can add a force to move the developing cartridge. The number of components of the developing cartridge can be reduced compared with a case where a member different from the developing electrode 60 is pressed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a developer cartridge. [Background technology]

[0002] Electrophotographic image forming apparatuses such as laser printers and LED printers are known. A developer cartridge is used in the image forming apparatus. The developer cartridge has a developer roller for supplying developer. A conventional image forming apparatus is described in, for example, Patent Document 1.

[0003] The developer cartridge in Patent Document 1 is attached to a drum cartridge. The drum cartridge has a photosensitive drum. When the developer cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge, the photosensitive drum and the developer roller come into contact with each other. Then, the drum cartridge with the attached developer cartridge is attached to an image forming apparatus. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-54058 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The developer cartridge has a member for positioning the developer roller relative to the photosensitive drum. The developer cartridge also has a developer electrode for supplying a bias voltage to the shaft of the developer roller. The developer cartridge also has a member that receives a pressing force when the developer roller is separated from the photosensitive drum. However, if the member for positioning the developer roller, the developer electrode that supplies a bias voltage to the shaft of the developer roller, and the member that receives the pressing force when the developer roller is separated are provided separately, the number of parts in the developer cartridge increases.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a structure that can reduce the number of parts in a developing cartridge. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A first disclosure of the present application is a developer cartridge, comprising: a developer roller having a developer roller shaft extending in a first direction; a casing capable of containing a developer, the casing having the developer roller positioned at one end in a second direction intersecting the first direction; a developer electrode having a first end electrically connected to the developer roller shaft and a second end farther from the developer roller shaft than the first end, the developer electrode being movable together with the casing and the developer roller, the second end being farther from the one end of the casing in the second direction than the first end; and a first lever movable between a first position and a second position relative to the casing, the first lever having: one end which is one end of the first lever and functions as a force point; another end which is the other end of the first lever and functions as a point of action; and a cam surface located between the one end and the other end and functions as a fulcrum, wherein when the first lever moves from the first position to the second position around the cam surface in response to the one end receiving a driving force, the other end inserted into the first hole presses against the inner surface of the first hole.

[0008] The second disclosure of the present application is a developing cartridge according to the first disclosure, characterized in that when the first lever moves from the first position to the second position around the cam surface in response to the one end receiving a driving force, the other end of the first lever presses the inner surface of the first hole in a direction away from the developing roller.

[0009] A third disclosure of the present application is the developing cartridge according to the first or second disclosure, characterized in that the other end of the first lever is connected to the inner surface of the first hole.

[0010] A fourth disclosure of the present application is the developing cartridge of the third disclosure, characterized in that the other end of the first lever is movable together with the developing electrode.

[0011] The fifth disclosure of the present application is a developing cartridge according to any one of the first to fourth disclosures, characterized in that when the first lever is in the first position, the other end of the first lever does not press against the inner surface of the first hole, and when the first lever is in the second position, the other end of the first lever presses against the inner surface of the first hole.

[0012] A sixth disclosure of the present application is a developing cartridge according to any one of the first to fifth disclosures, characterized in that the developing electrode is made of a conductive resin.

[0013] A seventh disclosure of the present application is the developer cartridge according to any one of the first to sixth disclosures, wherein the first hole penetrates the developer electrode.

[0014] An eighth disclosure of the present application is the developing cartridge according to any one of the first to seventh disclosures, further comprising a holder that holds the first lever movably relative to the casing.

[0015] The ninth disclosure of the present application is a developer cartridge according to any one of the first to eighth disclosures, characterized in that the developer electrode has an insertion hole into which the developer roller shaft can be inserted, and the developer roller shaft is inserted into the insertion hole.

[0016] A tenth disclosure of the present application is the developing cartridge of the ninth disclosure, characterized in that, when the developing roller shaft is inserted into the insertion hole, the developing electrode is rotatable about the developing roller shaft.

[0017] The 11th disclosure of the present application is a developing cartridge according to any one of the 1st to 10th disclosures, characterized in that the developing cartridge is used for a drum cartridge having a photosensitive drum, and when the first lever moves from the first position to the second position, the first lever moves around the cam surface while the cam surface is in contact with a part of the drum cartridge.

[0018] The twelfth disclosure of the present application is the developing cartridge of the eleventh disclosure, wherein the developing cartridge is attachable to the drum cartridge, and when the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge, if the first lever is in the first position, the surface of the developing roller comes into contact with the surface of the photosensitive drum, and when the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge, if the first lever is in the second position, the other end presses the inner surface of the first hole, and the developing electrode moves together with the developing roller and the casing relative to the drum cartridge, and the surface of the developing roller comes into contact with the surface of the photosensitive drum.

[0019] The 13th disclosure of the present application is a developing cartridge according to the 11th or 12th disclosure, characterized in that the drum cartridge further includes a pressing member that presses the developing electrode toward the photosensitive drum when the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge, and the other end of the first lever presses the inner surface of the developing electrode against the pressing force of the pressing member.

[0020] The 14th disclosure of the present application is a developing cartridge according to any one of the 11th to 13th disclosures, characterized in that when the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge, when the other end of the first lever presses the inner surface of the developing electrode, the developing electrode moves along the guide surface of the drum cartridge.

[0021] The 15th disclosure of the present application is a developing cartridge according to any one of the 11th to 14th disclosures, characterized in that when the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge and the first lever is in the first position, the first end of the developing electrode contacts a part of the drum cartridge.

[0022] The 16th disclosure of the present application is a developing cartridge according to the 15th disclosure, characterized in that when the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge and the first lever is in the first position, the second end of the developing electrode contacts another part of the drum cartridge.

[0023] The 17th disclosure of the present application is a developer cartridge according to any one of the 1st to 16th disclosures, characterized in that the casing has a first outer surface located at one end in the first direction, the developer electrode is located on the first outer surface, and further, the developer electrode extends along the first outer surface between the first end and the second end.

[0024] The 18th disclosure of the present application is a developing cartridge described in any one of the 1st to 17th disclosures, characterized in that the one end of the first lever has a convex portion protruding in a first direction.

[0025] A 19th disclosure of the present application is a developer cartridge according to any one of the 1st to 18th disclosures, wherein the developer electrode is electrically connectable to one end of the developer roller shaft, and the developer cartridge further comprises a bearing mountable to the other end of the developer roller shaft, the bearing having a third end having an insertion hole into which the other end of the developer roller shaft is inserted, and a fourth end farther from the developer roller shaft than the third end, the bearing being movable together with the casing and the developer roller, the bearing having a third hole extending in the second direction between the third end and the fourth end, and the casing and a second lever movable between a third position and a fourth position, the second lever having one end which is one end of the second lever and functions as a point of force, the other end which is the other end of the second lever and functions as a point of action, and a cam surface located between the one end and the other end and functions as a fulcrum, wherein when the second lever moves from the third position to the fourth position around the cam surface of the second lever in response to the one end of the second lever receiving a driving force, the other end of the second lever inserted into the third hole presses the inner surface of the third hole.

[0026] A twentieth disclosure of the present application is the developing cartridge of the nineteenth disclosure, characterized in that the one end of the second lever has a convex portion that protrudes in a first direction.

[0027] A twenty-first disclosure of the present application is a developer cartridge, comprising: a developer roller having a developer roller shaft extending in a first direction; a casing capable of accommodating a developer, the casing having one end in a second direction intersecting the first direction, the developer roller being positioned at the other end; a first bearing having a first end portion having a first insertion hole into which the developer roller shaft is inserted; and a second end portion farther from the developer roller shaft than the first end portion; the first bearing being movable together with the casing and the developer roller, the second end portion being farther from the one end of the casing in the second direction than the first end portion; In a developing cartridge comprising a first bearing having a first hole extending in two directions, and a first lever movable between a first position and a second position relative to the casing, the first lever having: one end which is one end of the first lever and functions as a force point; the other end which is the other end of the first lever and functions as a point of action; and a cam surface located between the one end and the other end and functions as a fulcrum, the first lever is characterized in that when the first lever moves from the first position to the second position around the cam surface in response to the one end receiving a driving force, the other end inserted into the first hole presses against the inner surface of the first hole.

[0028] The 22nd disclosure of the present application is a developing cartridge according to the 21st disclosure, characterized in that when the first lever moves from the first position to the second position around the cam surface in response to the one end receiving a driving force, the other end of the first lever presses the inner surface of the first hole in a direction away from the developing roller.

[0029] A twenty-third disclosure of the present application is the developing cartridge according to the twenty-first or twenty-second disclosure, characterized in that the other end of the first lever is connected to the inner surface of the first hole.

[0030] A twenty-fourth disclosure of the present application is the developing cartridge of the twenty-third disclosure, characterized in that the other end of the first lever is movable together with the first bearing.

[0031] The 25th disclosure of the present application is a developing cartridge according to any one of the 21st to 24th disclosures, characterized in that when the first lever is in the first position, the other end of the first lever does not press against the inner surface of the first hole, and when the first lever is in the second position, the other end of the first lever presses against the inner surface of the first hole.

[0032] A 26th disclosure of the present application is the developing cartridge according to any one of the 21st to 25th disclosures, characterized in that the first bearing is made of conductive resin.

[0033] A 27th disclosure of the present application is the developing cartridge according to any one of the 21st to 26th disclosures, wherein the first hole penetrates the first bearing.

[0034] A 28th disclosure of the present application is the developing cartridge according to any one of the 21st to 27th disclosures, further comprising a holder that holds the first lever movably relative to the casing.

[0035] A 29th disclosure of the present application is a developing cartridge according to any one of the 21st to 28th disclosures, characterized in that the first bearing is a developing electrode that can be electrically connected to the developing roller shaft.

[0036] The 30th disclosure of the present application is a developing cartridge according to any one of the 21st to 29th disclosures, characterized in that when the developing roller shaft is inserted into the first insertion hole, the first bearing is rotatable about the developing roller shaft.

[0037] The 31st disclosure of the present application is a developing cartridge according to any one of the 21st to 30th disclosures, characterized in that the developing cartridge is used for a drum cartridge having a photosensitive drum, and when the first lever moves from the first position to the second position, the first lever moves around the cam surface while the cam surface is in contact with a part of the drum cartridge.

[0038] The 32nd disclosure of the present application is the developing cartridge of the 31st disclosure, wherein the developing cartridge is attachable to the drum cartridge, and when the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge, if the first lever is in the first position, the surface of the developing roller and the surface of the photosensitive drum come into contact, and when the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge, if the first lever is in the second position, the other end presses the inner surface of the first hole, and as a result, the first bearing moves together with the developing roller and the casing relative to the drum cartridge, and the surface of the developing roller and the surface of the photosensitive drum move apart.

[0039] The 33rd disclosure of the present application is a developing cartridge according to the 31st or 32nd disclosure, wherein the drum cartridge further includes a pressing member that presses the first bearing toward the photosensitive drum when the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge, and the other end of the first lever presses the inner surface of the first bearing against the pressing force of the pressing member.

[0040] The 34th disclosure of the present application is a developing cartridge according to any one of the 31st to 33rd disclosures, characterized in that when the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge, when the other end of the first lever presses the inner surface of the first bearing, the first bearing moves along the guide surface of the drum cartridge.

[0041] The 35th disclosure of the present application is a developing cartridge according to any one of the 31st to 34th disclosures, characterized in that when the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge and the first lever is in the first position, the first end of the first bearing contacts a part of the drum cartridge.

[0042] The 36th disclosure of the present application is a developing cartridge as disclosed in the 35th disclosure, characterized in that when the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge and the first lever is in the first position, the second end of the first bearing contacts another part of the drum cartridge.

[0043] The 37th disclosure of the present application is a developing cartridge according to any one of the 21st to 36th disclosures, characterized in that the casing has a first outer surface located at one end in the first direction, the first bearing is located on the first outer surface, and further, the first bearing extends along the first outer surface between the first end and the second end.

[0044] The 38th disclosure of the present application is a developing cartridge according to any one of the 21st to 37th disclosures, characterized in that the one end of the first lever has a convex portion that protrudes in a first direction.

[0045] A 39th disclosure of the present application is a developing cartridge according to any one of the 21st to 38th disclosures, wherein one end of the developing roller shaft is inserted into the first insertion hole of the first bearing, and the developing cartridge further comprises a second bearing that can be attached to the other end of the developing roller shaft, the second bearing having a third end having a second insertion hole into which the other end of the developing roller shaft is inserted, and a fourth end that is farther from the developing roller shaft than the third end, and is movable together with the casing and the developing roller, the second bearing having a third hole extending in the second direction between the third end and the fourth end; The device is characterized in that it comprises a second lever that is movable between a third position and a fourth position relative to a casing, the second lever having one end that is one end of the second lever and functions as a force point, the other end that is the other end of the second lever and functions as a point of action, and a cam surface located between the one end and the other end and functions as a fulcrum, and when the second lever moves from the third position to the fourth position around the cam surface of the second lever in response to the one end of the second lever receiving a driving force, the other end of the second lever inserted into the third hole presses against the inner surface of the third hole.

[0046] A fortieth disclosure of the present application is the developing cartridge of the thirty-ninth disclosure, characterized in that the one end of the second lever has a convex portion that protrudes in a first direction. [Effects of the Invention]

[0047] According to the first to twentieth disclosures of the present application, the force for moving the developer cartridge can be applied by having the other end of the first lever press against the inner surface of the first hole of the developer electrode in accordance with the force received by one end of the first lever. Also, the number of parts of the developer cartridge can be reduced compared to when a member other than the developer electrode is pressed.

[0048] According to the tenth disclosure of the present application, the developing electrode is rotatable about the developing roller shaft, so that the developing electrode can be pressed in the optimal direction.

[0049] Furthermore, according to the eighteenth disclosure of the present application, the pressing force received by the one end of the first lever is stabilized.

[0050] Furthermore, according to the twentieth disclosure of the present application, the pressing force received by one end of the second lever is stabilized.

[0051] According to the 21st to 40th disclosures of the present application, the other end of the first lever presses the inner surface of the first hole of the first bearing in accordance with the force received by one end of the first lever, thereby applying a force for moving the developer cartridge. In addition, the number of parts in the developer cartridge can be reduced compared to when a member other than the first bearing is pressed.

[0052] According to the 30th disclosure of the present application, the first bearing is rotatable about the developing roller shaft, so that the first bearing can be pressed in the optimal direction.

[0053] Furthermore, according to the thirty-eighth disclosure of the present application, the pressing force received by the one end of the first lever is stabilized.

[0054] Furthermore, according to the fortieth disclosure of the present application, the pressing force received by one end of the second lever is stabilized. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0055] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a developing cartridge and a drum cartridge. [Figure 2] FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the developing cartridge in the vicinity of a first outer surface of the casing. [Figure 5] 10 is an exploded perspective view of the developing cartridge in the vicinity of a second outer surface of the casing. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a view showing the state when the developing cartridge is mounted to the drum cartridge, as viewed from one side in the first direction. [Figure 7]FIG. 10 is a view showing the state when the developing cartridge is mounted to the drum cartridge, as viewed from one side in the first direction. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a view showing the state when the developing cartridge is mounted to the drum cartridge, as viewed from one side in the first direction. [Figure 9] 3 is a cross-sectional view of the developing cartridge and the drum cartridge in a state where the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge. FIG. [Figure 10] 10 is a cross-sectional view of the developer cartridge and the drum cartridge during the separating operation. FIG. [Figure 11] 4 is a cross-sectional view of the developing cartridge and the drum cartridge when the developing cartridge is being removed from the drum cartridge. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0056] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0057] In the following description, the direction in which the developing roller 30 of the developing cartridge 1 extends will be referred to as the "first direction." Furthermore, the direction in which the agitator 20 of the developing cartridge 1 and the developing roller 30 are aligned will be referred to as the "second direction." The first direction and the second direction intersect (preferably perpendicular to) each other.

[0058] <1. Overview of developing cartridges and drum cartridges> FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a developer cartridge 1 and a drum cartridge 2. FIG. 1 shows the developer cartridge 1 attached to the drum cartridge 2. The developer cartridge 1 and the drum cartridge 2 are used in an electrophotographic image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus is, for example, a laser printer or an LED printer.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 1, a developer cartridge 1 is used together with a drum cartridge 2. The developer cartridge 1 is attachable to the drum cartridge 2. The developer cartridge 1 is attached to the image forming device while attached to the drum cartridge 2. The image forming device can accommodate, for example, four developer cartridges 1. The four developer cartridges 1 contain developers (e.g., toner) of different colors (e.g., cyan, magenta, yellow, and black). The image forming device forms an image on the recording surface of printing paper using the developer supplied from the developer cartridges 1. However, the number of developer cartridges 1 that can be attached to the image forming device may be one to three, or may be five or more.

[0060] <2. About the developing cartridge> 2 and 3 are perspective views of the developer cartridge 1. Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the developer cartridge 1 in the vicinity of the first outer surface 11 of the casing 10. Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the developer cartridge 1 in the vicinity of the second outer surface 12 of the casing 10. As shown in Figs. 1 to 5, the developer cartridge 1 includes a casing 10, an agitator 20, a developing roller 30, a supply roller 40, a gear unit 50, a first bearing 60, a first lever 110, a holder 120, a second bearing 70, and a second lever 130.

[0061] The casing 10 is a housing capable of containing a developer. The casing 10 has a first outer surface 11 and a second outer surface 12. The first outer surface 11 is located at one end of the casing 10 in the first direction. The second outer surface 12 is located at the other end of the casing 10 in the first direction. The first outer surface 11 and the second outer surface 12 are spaced apart from each other in the first direction. The casing 10 extends in the first direction between the first outer surface 11 and the second outer surface 12, and also extends in the second direction.

[0062] A storage chamber 13 is provided inside the casing 10. The developer is stored in the storage chamber 13. The casing 10 also has an opening 14. The opening 14 is located at one end of the casing 10 in the second direction. The external space of the casing 10 and the storage chamber 13 communicate with each other via the opening 14. The casing 10 may have a handle on the outer surface of the other end in the second direction.

[0063] The agitator 20 has an agitator shaft 21 and blades 22. The agitator shaft 21 extends along the first direction. The blades 22 extend from the agitator shaft 21 toward the inner surface of the casing 10. A portion of the agitator shaft 21 and the blades 22 are disposed within the storage chamber 13 of the casing 10. An agitator gear (not shown) included in the gear unit 50 is attached to the end of the agitator shaft 21 in the first direction. The agitator shaft 21 is fixed to the agitator gear so as not to rotate relative to it. When the agitator gear rotates, the agitator shaft 21 and the blades 22 rotate about a rotation axis extending in the first direction. The rotation of the blades 22 agitates the developer in the storage chamber 13.

[0064] The developing roller 30 is a roller that can rotate about a rotation axis A1 that extends in the first direction. The developing roller 30 is located in the opening 14 of the casing 10. That is, the developing roller 30 is located at one end of the casing 10 in the second direction. The developing roller 30 has a developing roller main body 31 and a developing roller shaft 32. The developing roller main body 31 is a cylindrical member that extends in the first direction. The developing roller main body 31 is made of, for example, elastic rubber. The developing roller shaft 32 is a cylindrical member that penetrates the developing roller main body 31 and extends in the first direction. The developing roller shaft 32 is conductive. The developing roller shaft 32 is made of a metal or a conductive resin.

[0065] The developing roller main body 31 is fixed to the developing roller shaft 32 so as not to rotate relative to it. A developing roller gear 51 included in a gear unit 50 is attached to the end of the developing roller shaft 32 in the first direction. The developing roller shaft 32 is fixed to the developing roller gear 51 so as not to rotate relative to it. Therefore, when the developing roller gear 51 rotates, the developing roller shaft 32 also rotates, and the developing roller main body 31 rotates together with the developing roller shaft 32.

[0066] The developing roller shaft 32 does not have to penetrate the developing roller main body 31 in the first direction. For example, the developing roller shaft 32 may extend in the first direction from both ends of the developing roller main body 31 in the first direction.

[0067] The supply roller 40 is a roller that can rotate about a rotation axis that extends in the first direction. The supply roller 40 is located between the agitator 20 and the developing roller 30. The supply roller 40 has a supply roller main body 41 and a supply roller shaft 42. The supply roller main body 41 is a cylindrical member that extends in the first direction. The supply roller main body 41 is made of, for example, elastic rubber. The supply roller shaft 42 is a cylindrical member that penetrates the supply roller main body 41 and extends in the first direction.

[0068] Supply roller body 41 is fixed to supply roller shaft 42 so as not to rotate relative to it. A supply roller gear (not shown) included in gear unit 50 is attached to the end of supply roller shaft 42 in the first direction. Supply roller shaft 42 is fixed to supply roller gear so as not to rotate relative to it. Therefore, when the supply roller gear rotates, supply roller shaft 42 also rotates, and supply roller body 41 rotates together with supply roller shaft 42.

[0069] The supply roller shaft 42 does not have to penetrate the supply roller main body 41 in the first direction. For example, the supply roller shaft 42 may extend in the first direction from both ends of the supply roller main body 41 in the first direction.

[0070] When the developer cartridge 1 receives a driving force, developer is supplied from the storage chamber 13 in the casing 10 to the outer circumferential surface of the developer roller 30 via the supply roller 40. At this time, the developer is frictionally charged between the supply roller 40 and the developer roller 30. Meanwhile, a bias voltage is applied to the developer roller shaft 32 of the developer roller 30. Therefore, the developer is attracted to the outer circumferential surface of the developer roller body 31 by the electrostatic force between the developer roller shaft 32 and the developer.

[0071] The developing cartridge 1 also has a layer thickness regulating blade (not shown). The layer thickness regulating blade shapes the developer supplied to the outer peripheral surface of the developing roller main body 31 to a uniform thickness. The developer on the outer peripheral surface of the developing roller main body 31 is then supplied to a photosensitive drum 92 (described later) of the drum cartridge 2. At this time, the developer moves from the developing roller main body 31 to the photosensitive drum 92 in accordance with the electrostatic latent image formed on the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 92. As a result, the electrostatic latent image is visualized on the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 92.

[0072] The gear portion 50 is located on the second outer surface 12 of the casing 10. As shown in FIG. 5 , the gear portion 50 has the above-mentioned agitator gear, developing roller gear 51, and supply roller gear, as well as multiple idle gears, a coupling 52, and a gear cover 53. The gear cover 53, together with the casing 10, constitutes the housing of the developer cartridge 1. The gear cover 53 is fixed to the second outer surface 12 of the casing 10, for example, by screws. At least some of the multiple gears are located between the second outer surface 12 and the gear cover 53.

[0073] The gear cover 53 has a cylindrical collar 531 that protrudes in the first direction. The coupling 52 is housed inside the collar 531. The coupling 52 has an engagement portion 521 that is recessed in the first direction. The engagement portion 521 is exposed from the gear cover 53. When the developer cartridge 1 attached to the drum cartridge 2 is attached to the image forming apparatus, the drive shaft of the image forming apparatus is connected to the engagement portion 521 of the coupling 52. Then, rotation of the drive shaft is transmitted via the coupling 52 to the agitator gear, the multiple idle gears, the developing roller gear 51, and the supply roller gear.

[0074] The gears included in the gear unit 50 may transmit a rotational force by meshing of teeth, or may transmit a rotational force by friction.

[0075] The first bearing 60 is located on the first outer surface 11 of the casing 10. The first bearing 60 rotatably supports one end of the developing roller shaft 32 in the first direction. As shown in FIG. 4 , the first bearing 60 has a first end 61 and a second end 62. The second end 62 is farther away from the developing roller shaft 32 than the first end 61. The second end 62 is farther away in the second direction from one end of the casing 10 in the second direction than the first end 61. The first bearing 60 extends along the first outer surface 11 of the casing 10 between the first end 61 and the second end 62.

[0076] The first bearing 60 has a first arm 63 and a second arm 64. The second arm 64 is farther from the developing roller shaft 32 than the first arm 63. Furthermore, the second arm 64 is farther from one end of the casing 10 in the second direction than the first arm 63. The first arm 63 has the first end 61 described above. The second arm 64 has the second end 62 described above. The first arm 63 extends, for example, linearly along the first outer surface 11 of the casing 10. The second arm 64 extends, for example, linearly along the first outer surface 11 of the casing 10. However, the first arm 63 is bent with respect to the second arm 64. The angle formed between the first arm 63 and the second arm 64 is an obtuse angle.

[0077] In this embodiment, the first arm 63 and the second arm 64 are integrally formed. However, the first arm 63 and the second arm 64 may be separate parts. In that case, it is sufficient that the first arm 63 and the second arm 64 are fixed to each other.

[0078] The first bearing 60 has a first insertion hole 65. The first insertion hole 65 extends in the first direction at a first end 61 of the first bearing 60. The first insertion hole 65 may be a through-hole that penetrates the first end 61 in the first direction, or it may not penetrate the first end 61. The first insertion hole 65 has a cylindrical inner circumferential surface. One end of the developing roller shaft 32 in the first direction is inserted into the first insertion hole 65. As a result, the first bearing 60 is attached to one end of the developing roller shaft 32 in the first direction. The one end of the developing roller shaft 32 in the first direction is rotatably supported about a rotation axis A1 that extends in the first direction. The first bearing 60 is also rotatable about the developing roller shaft 32 with respect to the casing 10. Specifically, the second end 62 is rotatable about the rotation axis A1 with respect to the first end 61.

[0079] The first bearing 60 is a conductive development electrode. The first bearing 60 is made of, for example, a conductive resin. However, the first bearing 60 may also be made of a metal. A first end 61 of the first bearing 60 contacts one end of the developing roller shaft 32 in the first direction. Therefore, the first end 61 of the first bearing 60 is electrically connected to the developing roller shaft 32.

[0080] The first bearing 60 also has a first hole 67. The first hole 67 extends in the second direction between the first end 61 and the second end 62. The first hole 67 also penetrates the first bearing 60 in the rotation direction about the rotation axis A1. However, the first hole 67 does not have to penetrate the first bearing 60. The other end 112 of the first lever 110, which will be described later, is inserted into the first hole 67.

[0081] The first lever 110 is located on the first outer surface 11 of the casing 10. As shown in FIG. 4 , the first lever 110 has one end 111, another end 112, and a cam surface 113. The one end 111 is located at one end of the first lever 110 in a third direction intersecting the first direction and the second direction. The other end 112 is located at the other end of the first lever 110 in the third direction. The cam surface 113 is located between the one end 111 and the other end 112 in the third direction. The one end 111 of the first lever 110 has a first protrusion 114. The first protrusion 114 protrudes from the one end 111 of the first lever 110 in the first direction. The other end 112 of the first lever 110 has a second protrusion 115. The second protrusion 115 protrudes from the other end 112 of the first lever 110 in the first direction.

[0082] The first lever 110 is movable relative to the casing 10. When the developing cartridge 1 is attached to the drum cartridge 2, the cam surface 113 can come into contact with a drum frame 91 (described later) of the drum cartridge 2. The first lever 110 is rotatable about the cam surface 113 between a first position and a second position.

[0083] The other end 112 of the first lever 110 is inserted into the first hole 67 of the first bearing 60. The other end 112 of the first lever 110 is connected to the inner surface of the first hole 67 of the first bearing 60. Specifically, the first bearing 60 has an engagement surface 69 (see FIG. 11 ) on the inner surface of the first hole 67. The engagement surface 69 and the second protrusion 115 of the first lever 110 face each other in the third direction. That is, the second protrusion 115 of the first lever 110 engages with the engagement surface 69 of the first bearing 60. This prevents the first lever 110 from slipping out of the first bearing 60 to one side in the third direction. Furthermore, the rotation range of the first bearing 60 around the rotation axis A1 is restricted.

[0084] The holder 120 is located on the first outer surface 11 of the casing 10. The holder 120 is fixed to the first outer surface 11 of the casing 10, for example, by screws. A portion of the first lever 110 is located between the first outer surface 11 and the holder 120. The first protrusion 114 of the first lever 110 is located on one side of the holder 120 in the third direction. The second protrusion 115 of the first lever 110 is located on the other side of the holder 120 in the third direction. The first protrusion 114 and the holder 120 face each other in the third direction. This prevents the first lever 110 from slipping out of the holder 120 to the other side in the third direction. In other words, the holder 120 holds the first lever 110 movably relative to the casing 10.

[0085] The second bearing 70 is located on the second outer surface 12 of the casing 10. More specifically, the second bearing 70 is located on the outer surface of the gear cover 53. The first bearing 60 and the second bearing 70 are positioned to overlap in the first direction. The second bearing 70 rotatably supports the other end of the developing roller shaft 32 in the first direction. As shown in FIG. 5 , the second bearing 70 has a third end 71 and a fourth end 72. The fourth end 72 is farther from the developing roller shaft 32 than the third end 71. Furthermore, the fourth end 72 is farther from one end of the casing 10 in the second direction than the third end 71. The second bearing 70 extends along the second outer surface 12 of the casing 10 between the third end 71 and the fourth end 72.

[0086] The second bearing 70 has a third arm 73 and a fourth arm 74. The fourth arm 74 is farther from the developing roller shaft 32 than the third arm 73. Furthermore, the fourth arm 74 is farther from one end of the casing 10 in the second direction than the third arm 73. The third arm 73 has the third end 71 described above. The fourth arm 74 has the fourth end 72 described above. The third arm 73 extends, for example, linearly along the second outer surface 12 of the casing 10. The fourth arm 74 extends, for example, linearly along the second outer surface 12 of the casing 10. However, the third arm 73 is curved with respect to the fourth arm 74. The angle formed between the third arm 73 and the fourth arm 74 is an obtuse angle.

[0087] In this embodiment, the third arm 73 and the fourth arm 74 are integrally formed. However, the third arm 73 and the fourth arm 74 may be separate parts. In that case, it is sufficient that the third arm 73 and the fourth arm 74 are fixed to each other.

[0088] The second bearing 70 has a second insertion hole 75. The second insertion hole 75 extends in the first direction at the third end 71 of the second bearing 70. The second insertion hole 75 may be a through-hole that penetrates the third end 71 in the first direction, or it may not penetrate the third end 71. The second insertion hole 75 has a cylindrical inner circumferential surface. The other end of the developing roller shaft 32 in the first direction is inserted into the second insertion hole 75. This allows the second bearing 70 to be attached to the other end of the developing roller shaft 32 in the first direction. The other end of the developing roller shaft 32 in the first direction is rotatably supported about the rotation axis A1 that extends in the first direction. The second bearing 70 is also rotatable about the developing roller shaft 32 with respect to the casing 10. Specifically, the fourth end 72 is rotatable about the rotation axis A1 with respect to the third end 71.

[0089] The second bearing 70 also has a third hole 77. The third hole 77 extends in the second direction between the third end 71 and the fourth end 72. The third hole 77 also penetrates the second bearing 70 in the rotation direction about the rotation axis A1. However, the third hole 77 does not have to penetrate the second bearing 70. The other end 132 of the second lever 130, which will be described later, is inserted into the third hole 77. The first hole 67 of the first bearing 60 and the third hole 77 of the second bearing 70 are positioned to overlap in the first direction.

[0090] The second lever 130 is located on the second outer surface 12 of the casing 10. More specifically, the second bearing 70 is located on the outer surface of the gear cover 53. As shown in FIG. 5 , the second lever 130 has one end 131, the other end 132, and a cam surface 133. The one end 131 is located at one end of the second lever 130 in the third direction. The other end 132 is located at the other end of the second lever 130 in the third direction. The cam surface 133 is located between the one end 131 and the other end 132 in the third direction. In addition, the other end 132 of the second lever 130 has a third protrusion 135. The third protrusion 135 protrudes from the other end 132 of the second lever 130 in the first direction.

[0091] One end 111 of the first lever 110 and one end 131 of the second lever 130 are positioned to overlap in the first direction. The other end 112 of the first lever 110 and the other end 132 of the second lever 130 are positioned to overlap in the first direction.

[0092] The second lever 130 is movable relative to the casing 10. When the developer cartridge 1 is attached to the drum cartridge 2, the cam surface 133 can come into contact with a drum frame 91 (described later) of the drum cartridge 2. The second lever 130 is rotatable about the cam surface 133 between a third position and a fourth position.

[0093] The other end 132 of the second lever 130 is inserted into the third hole 77 of the second bearing 70. The other end 132 of the second lever 130 is connected to the inner surface of the third hole 77 of the second bearing 70. Specifically, the second bearing 70 has an engagement surface (not shown) on the inner surface of the third hole 77. This engagement surface and the third protrusion 135 of the second lever 130 face each other in the third direction. That is, the third protrusion 135 of the second lever 130 engages with the engagement surface of the second bearing 70. This prevents the second lever 130 from slipping off the second bearing 70 to one side in the third direction. Furthermore, the rotation range of the second bearing 70 around the rotation axis A1 is restricted.

[0094] As shown in FIG. 5 , the gear cover 53 has a gear cover protrusion 532 that protrudes in the first direction. The second lever 130 is located between the collar 531 of the gear cover 53 and the gear cover protrusion 532 in the second direction. This restricts movement of the second lever 130 in the second direction. The second lever 130 also extends in an arc shape along the outer circumferential surface of the collar 531 of the gear cover 53. A portion of the collar 531 is located between one end 131 and the other end 132 of the second lever 130 in the third direction. This restricts movement of the second lever 130 in the third direction.

[0095] <3. Structure of the drum cartridge> As shown in FIG. 1, the drum cartridge 2 includes a drum frame 91 and a photosensitive drum 92. The developer cartridge 1 is attached to the drum frame 91. The photosensitive drum 92 is a cylindrical drum that is rotatable about a rotation axis that extends in a first direction. The outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 92 is covered with a photosensitive material. The photosensitive drum 92 is located at one end of the drum frame 91 in the second direction. When the developer cartridge 1 is attached to the drum frame 91, the outer peripheral surface of the developer roller 30 comes into contact with the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 92.

[0096] 6 to 8 are views showing the state when the developer cartridge 1 is attached to the drum cartridge 2, viewed from one side in the first direction. Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the developer cartridge 1 and the drum cartridge 2 in a state in which the developer cartridge 1 is attached to the drum cartridge 2. Note that Fig. 9 shows a cross section that is perpendicular to the first direction and passes through the first bearing 60 and the first lever 110.

[0097] As shown in FIG. 9 , the drum cartridge 2 has a first guide surface 93 and a second guide surface 94. The first guide surface 93 and the second guide surface 94 are located at one end of the drum frame 91 in the first direction. The first guide surface 93 and the second guide surface 94 are spaced apart in the rotation direction around the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 92. The drum cartridge 2 also has a third guide surface (not shown) and a fourth guide surface (not shown) similar to the first guide surface 93 and the second guide surface 94 at the other end of the drum frame 91 in the first direction.

[0098] As shown in FIG. 9 , the drum cartridge 2 includes a first pressing member 95 and a first coil spring 96. The first pressing member 95 and the first coil spring 96 are conductive. The first pressing member 95 is made of, for example, conductive resin. The first coil spring 96 is made of, for example, metal. The first pressing member 95 and the first coil spring 96 are located at one end of the drum frame 91 in the first direction. The first coil spring 96 is an elastic member that can expand and contract in the second direction. One end of the first coil spring 96 in the second direction is connected to the first pressing member 95. The other end of the first coil spring 96 in the second direction is connected to the drum frame 91. When the developer cartridge 1 is installed in the drum cartridge 2, the first pressing member 95 presses the second end 62 of the first bearing 60 toward the photosensitive drum 92 by the elastic force of the first coil spring 96.

[0099] The drum cartridge 2 also includes a second pressing member (not shown) and a second coil spring (not shown). The second pressing member and the second coil spring are located at the other end of the drum frame 91 in the first direction. When the developer cartridge 1 is attached to the drum cartridge 2, the second pressing member presses the fourth end 72 of the second bearing 70 toward the photosensitive drum 92 due to the elastic force of the second coil spring.

[0100] The drum cartridge 2 may include other types of elastic members instead of the first coil spring 96 and the second coil spring. For example, the drum cartridge 2 may include, as the elastic member, a spring other than a coil spring, such as a torsion spring or a leaf spring, or rubber.

[0101] As shown in FIGS. 6 to 9, the drum cartridge 2 also includes a first release lever 97. The first release lever 97 is located at one end of the drum frame 91 in the first direction. The first release lever 97 is rotatable about an axis extending in the first direction. The drum cartridge 2 also includes a second release lever (not shown). The second release lever is located at the other end of the drum frame 91 in the first direction. The second release lever is rotatable about an axis extending in the first direction.

[0102] <4. Installing the developing cartridge> When the developer cartridge 1 is attached to the drum cartridge 2, as shown in FIGS. 6 to 9, the developer cartridge 1 moves relative to the drum cartridge 2 so that the developer roller 30 approaches the photosensitive drum 92. At this time, as shown in FIGS. 6 to 9, the second end 62 of the first bearing 60 comes into contact with the first release lever 97 and moves along the first release lever 97. As a result, the first bearing 60 rotates about the rotation axis A1. Similarly, the third end 71 of the second bearing 70 comes into contact with the second release lever and moves along the second release lever. As a result, the second bearing 70 rotates about the rotation axis A1.

[0103] In this way, when the developer cartridge 1 is attached to the drum cartridge 2, the first bearing 60 and the second bearing 70 rotate about the rotation axis A1 of the developer roller 30. Therefore, the first bearing 60 can be disposed between the photosensitive drum 92 and the first pressing member 95, and the second bearing 70 can be disposed between the photosensitive drum 92 and the second pressing member, without rotating the casing 10 relative to the drum frame 91. Therefore, a user of the image forming apparatus can move the developer roller 30 closer to the photosensitive drum 92 without rotating the casing 10.

[0104] When the first bearing 60 is disposed between the photosensitive drum 92 and the first pressing member 95, the first pressing member 95 comes into contact with the second end 62 of the first bearing 60. Then, due to the elastic force of the first coil spring 96, the first pressing member 95 presses the second end 62 of the first bearing 60 toward the photosensitive drum 92. Then, as shown in FIG. 9 , the first end 61 of the first bearing 60 comes into contact with the first guide surface 93, and the other portion of the first bearing 60 comes into contact with the second guide surface 94. This fixes the position of the first bearing 60 relative to the drum frame 91.

[0105] Similarly, the second pressing member presses the fourth end 72 of the second bearing 70 toward the photosensitive drum 92. As a result, the third end 71 of the second bearing 70 contacts the third guide surface, and the other portion of the second bearing 70 contacts the fourth guide surface. This fixes the position of the second bearing 70 relative to the drum frame 91.

[0106] Furthermore, with the positions of the first bearing 60 and the second bearing 70 fixed relative to the drum frame 91, the first pressing member 95 presses the first bearing 60, and the second pressing member presses the second bearing 70. This causes the outer peripheral surface of the developing roller 30 to come into contact with the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 92. The developing roller 30 is then pressed against the photosensitive drum 92.

[0107] As described above, in this embodiment, the first bearing 60 has a first end 61 and a second end 62, and the second end 62 is rotatable relative to the first end 61. Furthermore, the second bearing 70 has a third end 71 and a fourth end 72, and the fourth end 72 is rotatable relative to the third end 71. Therefore, the developing roller 30 can be positioned relative to the photosensitive drum 92 by utilizing the first end 61 and the second end 62 of the first bearing 60 and the third end 71 and the fourth end 72 of the second bearing 70.

[0108] In this embodiment, when the developer cartridge 1 is attached to the drum cartridge 2, the first bearing 60 and the second bearing 70 rotate about the rotation axis A1. Similarly, when the developer cartridge 1 is removed from the drum cartridge 2, the first bearing 60 and the second bearing 70 rotate about the rotation axis A1. Therefore, the developer cartridge 1 can be smoothly attached to and removed from the drum cartridge 2 by rotating the first bearing 60 and the second bearing 70 without rotating the casing 10.

[0109] <5. Voltage supply> The first pressing member 95 and the first coil spring 96 are conductive. The first pressing member 95 is made of, for example, a conductive resin. The first coil spring 96 is made of, for example, a metal. The drum cartridge 2 also includes an electrode terminal 98 that is in electrical contact with the first coil spring 96. As shown in FIGS. 6 to 8 , the electrode terminal 98 is exposed on the outer surface of the drum frame 91. As described above, the developing roller shaft 32 and the first bearing 60 are also conductive. Therefore, when the developing cartridge 1 is attached to the drum cartridge 2 and the first pressing member 95 contacts the first bearing 60, the electrode terminal 98, the first coil spring 96, the first pressing member 95, the first bearing 60, and the developing roller shaft 32 are electrically connected to one another.

[0110] When the developer cartridge 1 attached to the drum cartridge 2 is installed in an image forming apparatus, the electrode terminal of the image forming apparatus comes into contact with the electrode terminal 98 of the drum cartridge 2. Then, a bias voltage is supplied from the image forming apparatus to the developer roller shaft 32 via the electrode terminal 98, the first coil spring 96, the first pressing member 95, and the first bearing 60. As a result, the developer is attracted to the outer circumferential surface of the developer roller body 31 by electrostatic force due to the bias voltage.

[0111] In this manner, in this embodiment, the bias voltage is supplied to the first bearing 60 of the developer cartridge 1 via the first pressing member 95 of the drum cartridge 2. In this manner, the number of parts of the drum cartridge 2 can be reduced compared to when a conductive part for supplying voltage to the first bearing 60 is provided separately from the first pressing member 95. Therefore, the drum cartridge 2 can be made smaller.

[0112] Furthermore, the first bearing 60 of this embodiment performs multiple functions: (1) a function as a bearing that rotatably supports the developing roller shaft 32, (2) a function as a positioning member that positions the developing roller 30 with respect to the photosensitive drum 92 when the developing cartridge 1 is attached to the drum cartridge 2, and (3) a function as a developing electrode that supplies a bias voltage to the developing roller shaft 32. Therefore, compared to when these functions are realized by separate members, the number of parts of the developing cartridge 1 can be reduced and the developing cartridge 1 can be made smaller.

[0113] <6. Separation operation> After the developer cartridge 1 is installed in the image forming apparatus while attached to the drum cartridge 2, it can perform a separation operation by a driving force supplied from the image forming apparatus. The separation operation is an operation for temporarily separating the developer roller 30 from the photosensitive drum 92. For example, when monochrome printing is performed in the image forming apparatus, the developer cartridges 1 of each color other than black perform the separation operation. However, there may be cases where only the black developer cartridge 1 performs the separation operation.

[0114] As shown in FIG. 9 , when the developer cartridge 1 is attached to the drum cartridge 2, the developer cartridge 1 is positioned at a contact position where the developer roller 30 contacts the photosensitive drum 92. The position of the first lever 110 at this time is the first position. In the first position, the other end 112 of the first lever 110 is separated from the inner surface 670 of the first hole 67 of the first bearing 60. Therefore, the other end 112 of the first lever 110 does not press against the inner surface 670 of the first hole 67. The cam surface 113 of the first lever 110 is in contact with the drum frame 91. The position of the second lever 130 at this time is the third position. In the third position, the other end 132 of the second lever 130 is separated from the inner surface of the third hole 77 of the second bearing 70. Therefore, the other end 132 of the second lever 130 does not press against the inner surface of the third hole 77 of the second bearing 70. In addition, the cam surface 133 of the second lever 130 is in contact with the drum frame 91 .

[0115] 10 is a cross-sectional view of the developer cartridge 1 and the drum cartridge 2 during the separating operation. Note that Fig. 10 shows a cross section perpendicular to the first direction and passing through the first bearing 60 and the first lever 110.

[0116] When performing the separation operation, the image forming apparatus applies a driving force to one end 111 of the first lever 110. Specifically, the image forming apparatus operates a drive lever (not shown). This causes the drive lever to press the one end 111 of the first lever 110, as indicated by the dashed arrow in FIG. 10 . This causes the first lever 110 to rotate from the first position to the second position around the cam surface 133. At this time, the other end 112 of the first lever 110 moves in a direction away from the photosensitive drum 92 and presses the inner surface 670 of the first hole 67 of the first bearing 60. Specifically, the other end 112 of the first lever 110 presses the second end 62 of the first bearing 60 in a direction away from the developing roller 30, against the pressing force of the first pressing member 95. As a result, the first bearing 60 moves together with the other end 112 of the first lever 110 in a direction away from the photosensitive drum 92 .

[0117] Furthermore, when the image forming apparatus performs the separation operation, it applies a driving force to one end 131 of the second lever 130. Specifically, the image forming apparatus operates another driving lever (not shown). This causes the driving lever to press one end 131 of the second lever 130. As a result, the second lever 130 rotates from the third position to the fourth position around the cam surface 133. At this time, the other end 132 of the second lever 130 moves in a direction away from the photosensitive drum 92 and presses the inner surface of the third hole 77 of the second bearing 70. Specifically, the other end 132 of the second lever 130 presses the fourth end 72 of the second bearing 70 in a direction away from the developing roller 30 against the pressing force of the second pressing member. As a result, the second bearing 70 moves together with the other end 132 of the second lever 130 in a direction away from the photosensitive drum 92.

[0118] As a result, the casing 10 and the developing roller 30 move together with the first bearing 60 and the second bearing 70 in a direction away from the photosensitive drum 92. As a result, the outer circumferential surface of the developing roller 30 moves away from the outer circumferential surface of the photosensitive drum 92. In other words, the developing cartridge 1 moves from the contact position to the separated position relative to the drum cartridge 2.

[0119] Thus, in this embodiment, in response to the force that one end 111 of the first lever 110 receives from the drive lever of the image forming apparatus, the other end 112 of the first lever 110 presses the inner surface 670 of the first hole 67 of the first bearing 60. This makes it possible to apply a force to move the developer cartridge 1 from the contact position to the separated position. In other words, the driving force supplied from the image forming apparatus can be transmitted to the first bearing 60 by the first lever 110, which has the one end 111 that functions as a force point, the other end 112 that functions as a point of application, and the cam surface 113 that functions as a fulcrum.

[0120] Furthermore, in response to the force that one end 131 of the second lever 130 receives from the drive lever of the image forming apparatus, the other end 132 of the second lever 130 presses the inner surface of the third hole 77 of the second bearing 70. This makes it possible to apply a force to move the developer cartridge 1 from the contact position to the separated position. That is, the drive force supplied from the image forming apparatus can be transmitted to the second bearing 70 by the second lever 130, which has the one end 131 that functions as a force point, the other end 132 that functions as a point of application, and the cam surface 133 that functions as a fulcrum.

[0121] In other words, the driving force supplied from the image forming apparatus is transmitted to the first bearing 60 and the second bearing 70 of the developer cartridge 1 without passing through the drum cartridge 2. In this way, there is no need to provide the drum cartridge 2 with any parts that relay the driving force. This allows the number of parts in the drum cartridge 2 to be reduced, and therefore the drum cartridge 2 can be made more compact.

[0122] Furthermore, in this developing cartridge 1, one end 111 of the first lever 110 has a first protrusion 114 that protrudes in the first direction. Therefore, the surface area of ​​the one end 111 of the first lever 110 is larger than when the first protrusion 114 is not provided. Therefore, during the separating operation, the drive lever of the image forming apparatus 100 can stably press the one end 111 of the first lever 110. This stabilizes the separating operation of the image forming apparatus 1. Note that, like the first lever 110, the one end 131 of the second lever 130 may also have a protrusion that protrudes in the first direction.

[0123] Furthermore, in this developer cartridge 1, the first bearing 60 and the second bearing 70 that support the developing roller shaft 32 receive a pressing force during the separating operation. This allows the number of parts in the developer cartridge 1 to be reduced compared to when a member that receives the pressing force during the separating operation is provided separately from the first bearing 60 and the second bearing 70. This allows the developer cartridge 1 to be made smaller.

[0124] Furthermore, the first bearing 60 is rotatable about the rotation axis A1. Therefore, the first lever 110 can press the inner surface 670 of the first hole 67 of the first bearing 60 in an optimal direction. Similarly, the second bearing 70 is also rotatable about the rotation axis A1. Therefore, the second lever 130 can press the inner surface 670 of the third hole 77 of the second bearing 70 in an optimal direction.

[0125] Furthermore, when the developer cartridge 1 moves from the contact position to the separated position, the first bearing 60 moves along the second guide surface 94. Furthermore, the second bearing 70 moves along the fourth guide surface. This allows the first lever 110 to press the first bearing 60 while maintaining the position of the first bearing 60 centered on the rotation axis A1. Furthermore, the second lever 130 can press the second bearing 70 while maintaining the position of the second bearing 70 centered on the rotation axis A1.

[0126] <7. Removing the developing cartridge> Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the developer cartridge 1 and the drum cartridge 2 when the developer cartridge 1 is being removed from the drum cartridge 2. Note that Figure 11 shows a cross section that is perpendicular to the first direction and passes through the first bearing 60 and the first lever 110.

[0127] When removing the developer cartridge 1 from the drum cartridge 2, the user presses the first release lever 97 and the second release lever. This causes the first release lever 97 and the second release lever to rotate about an axis extending in the first direction. As a result, the first release lever 97 presses the first lever 110 toward one side in the third direction. Furthermore, the second release lever presses the second lever 130 toward one side in the third direction. Furthermore, the other end 112 of the first lever 110 contacts the engagement surface 69 of the first bearing 60 and presses the engagement surface 69 toward one side in the third direction. Furthermore, the other end 132 of the second lever 130 contacts the engagement surface of the second bearing 70 and presses the engagement surface 79 toward one side in the third direction.

[0128] As a result, the first bearing 60 comes out from between the photosensitive drum 92 and the first pressing member 95 to one side in the third direction. Also, the second bearing 70 comes out from between the photosensitive drum 92 and the second pressing member to one side in the third direction. As a result, the developer cartridge 1 can be removed from the drum cartridge 2.

[0129] <8. Variations> Although one embodiment of the present disclosure has been described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiment. Various modifications will be described below, focusing on differences from the above embodiment.

[0130] In the above embodiment, the developer cartridge 1 includes a first bearing and a second bearing. The first bearing and the second bearing have the same shape and are both rotatable relative to the casing 10. However, the second bearing may have a different shape from the first bearing. The second bearing may also be non-rotatable relative to the casing 10. The developer cartridge 1 may not include a second bearing. In that case, it is sufficient that the first bearing is disposed at either end of the casing 10 in the first direction.

[0131] In the above embodiment, the developer cartridge 1 is attached to the drum cartridge 2 having one photosensitive drum 92. However, the developer cartridge 1 may be attached to a drum cartridge having multiple photosensitive drums 92.

[0132] Furthermore, the detailed shape of the developing cartridge 1 may differ from the shape shown in each drawing of the present application. Furthermore, the elements appearing in the above-described embodiments and modifications may be combined as appropriate within the scope of not causing any contradiction. [Explanation of symbols]

[0133] 1 Developer cartridge 2 drum cartridges 10 Casing 11 First outer surface 12 Second outer surface 13 Containment Room 14 Aperture 20 Agitator 30 Developing roller 31 Developing roller body 32 Developing roller shaft 40 Supply roller 41 Supply roller body 42 Supply roller shaft 50 Gear section 51 Developing roller gear 52 Coupling 53 Gear Cover 60 First bearing 61 First end 62 Second end 63 First Arm 64 Second Arm 65 First insertion hole 67 Hole 1 69 Engagement surface 70 Second bearing 71 Third end 72 4th end 73 Third Arm 74 4th Arm 75 Second insertion hole 77 Hole 3 91 Drum Frame 92 Photosensitive drum 93 First guide surface 94 Second guide surface 95 First pressing member 96 First coil spring 97 First release lever 98 Electrode terminal 110 First Lever 111 One end 112 Other end 113 Cam surface 114 First convex part 115 Second convex part 120 Holder 130 Second Lever 131 One end 132 Other end 133 Cam surface 135 Third convex part A1 rotation axis

Claims

1. A developer cartridge, a developing roller having a developing roller shaft extending in a first direction; a casing capable of accommodating a developer, the casing having the developing roller positioned at one end in a second direction intersecting the first direction; a developing electrode having a first end electrically connected to the developing roller shaft and a second end farther from the developing roller shaft than the first end, the developing electrode being movable together with the casing and the developing roller, the second end being farther from the one end of the casing in the second direction than the first end, the developing electrode having a first hole extending in the second direction between the first end and the second end; a first lever movable relative to the casing between a first position and a second position, one end of the first lever, which functions as a force point; the other end of the first lever, which functions as a point of application; a cam surface located between the one end and the other end and functioning as a fulcrum; a first lever having a In a developing cartridge comprising: A developing cartridge characterized in that when the first lever moves from the first position to the second position around the cam surface in response to the one end receiving a driving force, the other end inserted into the first hole presses against the inner surface of the first hole.

2. 2. The developing cartridge according to claim 1, A developing cartridge characterized in that when the first lever moves from the first position to the second position around the cam surface in response to the one end receiving a driving force, the other end of the first lever presses the inner surface of the first hole in a direction away from the developing roller.

3. 3. The developing cartridge according to claim 1, a developing cartridge, wherein the other end of the first lever is connected to an inner surface of the first hole;

4. 4. The developing cartridge according to claim 3, The other end of the first lever is movable together with the developing electrode.

5. 5. The developing cartridge according to claim 1, When the first lever is in the first position, the other end of the first lever does not press against the inner surface of the first hole; a developing cartridge, wherein when the first lever is in the second position, the other end of the first lever presses the inner surface of the first hole;

6. 6. The developing cartridge according to claim 1, The developing cartridge is characterized in that the developing electrode is made of a conductive resin.

7. 7. The developing cartridge according to claim 1, The developing cartridge, wherein the first hole penetrates the developing electrode.

8. 8. The developing cartridge according to claim 1, a holder that movably holds the first lever relative to the casing; The developing cartridge further comprises:

9. 9. The developing cartridge according to claim 1, the developing electrode has an insertion hole into which the developing roller shaft can be inserted, A developing cartridge, wherein the developing roller shaft is inserted into the insertion hole.

10. 10. The developing cartridge according to claim 9, With the developing roller shaft inserted into the insertion hole, A developing cartridge, wherein the developing electrode is rotatable about the developing roller shaft.

11. 11. The developing cartridge according to claim 1, The developing cartridge is used for a drum cartridge having a photosensitive drum, A developing cartridge characterized in that, when the first lever moves from the first position to the second position, the first lever moves around the cam surface while the cam surface is in contact with a part of the drum cartridge.

12. 12. The developing cartridge according to claim 11, the developing cartridge is mountable to the drum cartridge; When the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge and the first lever is at the first position, the surface of the developing roller comes into contact with the surface of the photosensitive drum, A developing cartridge characterized in that, when the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge and the first lever is in the second position, the other end presses the inner surface of the first hole, causing the developing electrode to move together with the developing roller and the casing relative to the drum cartridge, and the surface of the developing roller and the surface of the photosensitive drum to separate.

13. 13. The developing cartridge according to claim 11 or 12, The drum cartridge is a pressing member that presses the developing electrode toward the photosensitive drum when the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge; Furthermore, a developing cartridge, wherein the other end of the first lever presses the inner surface of the developing electrode against the pressing force of the pressing member;

14. 14. The developing cartridge according to claim 11, A developing cartridge characterized in that, when the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge, when the other end of the first lever presses the inner surface of the developing electrode, the developing electrode moves along the guide surface of the drum cartridge.

15. 15. The developing cartridge according to claim 11, A developing cartridge characterized in that, when the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge and the first lever is in the first position, the first end of the developing electrode contacts a portion of the drum cartridge.

16. 16. The developing cartridge according to claim 15, A developing cartridge characterized in that, when the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge and the first lever is in the first position, the second end of the developing electrode contacts another part of the drum cartridge.

17. 17. The developing cartridge according to claim 1, The casing comprises: a first outer surface located at one end in the first direction; and The developer cartridge, wherein the developer electrode is located on the first outer surface, and the developer electrode extends along the first outer surface between the first end and the second end.

18. 18. The developing cartridge according to claim 1, The one end of the first lever is A protrusion protruding in a first direction A developing cartridge comprising:

19. 19. The developing cartridge according to claim 1, the developing electrode is electrically connectable to one end of the developing roller shaft; The developing cartridge further comprises: a bearing that can be attached to the other end of the developing roller shaft, the bearing having a third end having an insertion hole into which the other end of the developing roller shaft is inserted, and a fourth end that is farther from the developing roller shaft than the third end, the bearing being movable together with the casing and the developing roller, the bearing having a third hole that extends in the second direction between the third end and the fourth end; a second lever movable relative to the casing between a third position and a fourth position, an end portion of the second lever, the end portion functioning as a force point; the other end of the second lever, which functions as a point of application; a cam surface located between the one end and the other end and functioning as a fulcrum; a second lever having Equipped with A developing cartridge characterized in that when one end of the second lever receives a driving force and the second lever moves from the third position to the fourth position around the cam surface of the second lever, the other end of the second lever inserted into the third hole presses against the inner surface of the third hole.

20. 20. The developing cartridge according to claim 19, The one end of the second lever is A protrusion protruding in a first direction A developing cartridge comprising:

21. A developer cartridge, a developing roller having a developing roller shaft extending in a first direction; a casing capable of accommodating a developer, the casing having the developing roller positioned at one end in a second direction intersecting the first direction; a first bearing having a first end portion having a first insertion hole into which the developing roller shaft is inserted and a second end portion farther from the developing roller shaft than the first end portion, the first bearing being movable together with the casing and the developing roller, the second end portion being farther from the one end of the casing in the second direction than the first end portion, the first bearing having a first hole extending in the second direction between the first end portion and the second end portion; a first lever movable relative to the casing between a first position and a second position, one end of the first lever, which functions as a force point; the other end of the first lever, which functions as a point of application; a cam surface located between the one end and the other end and functioning as a fulcrum; a first lever having a In a developing cartridge comprising: A developing cartridge characterized in that when the first lever moves from the first position to the second position around the cam surface in response to the one end receiving a driving force, the other end inserted into the first hole presses against the inner surface of the first hole.

22. 22. The developing cartridge according to claim 21, A developing cartridge characterized in that when the first lever moves from the first position to the second position around the cam surface in response to the one end receiving a driving force, the other end of the first lever presses the inner surface of the first hole in a direction away from the developing roller.

23. 23. The developing cartridge according to claim 21 or 22, a developing cartridge, wherein the other end of the first lever is connected to an inner surface of the first hole;

24. 24. The developer cartridge according to claim 23, The other end of the first lever is movable together with the first bearing.

25. 25. The developing cartridge according to any one of claims 21 to 24, When the first lever is in the first position, the other end of the first lever does not press against the inner surface of the first hole; a developing cartridge, wherein when the first lever is in the second position, the other end of the first lever presses the inner surface of the first hole;

26. 26. The developing cartridge according to any one of claims 21 to 25, The developing cartridge is characterized in that the first bearing is made of a conductive resin.

27. 27. The developing cartridge according to claim 21, The developing cartridge, wherein the first hole passes through the first bearing.

28. 28. The developing cartridge according to any one of claims 21 to 27, a holder that movably holds the first lever relative to the casing; The developing cartridge further comprises:

29. 29. The developing cartridge according to any one of claims 21 to 28, a developing cartridge, wherein the first bearing is a developing electrode that can be electrically connected to the developing roller shaft;

30. 30. The developing cartridge according to any one of claims 21 to 29, With the developing roller shaft inserted into the first insertion hole, The developing cartridge, wherein the first bearing is rotatable about the developing roller shaft.

31. 31. The developing cartridge according to claim 21, The developing cartridge is used for a drum cartridge having a photosensitive drum, A developing cartridge characterized in that, when the first lever moves from the first position to the second position, the first lever moves around the cam surface while the cam surface is in contact with a part of the drum cartridge.

32. 32. The developer cartridge according to claim 31, the developing cartridge is mountable to the drum cartridge; When the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge and the first lever is at the first position, the surface of the developing roller comes into contact with the surface of the photosensitive drum, When the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge, the first A developing cartridge characterized in that, when the lever is in the second position, the other end presses the inner surface of the first hole, causing the first bearing to move together with the developing roller and the casing relative to the drum cartridge, and causing the surface of the developing roller to separate from the surface of the photosensitive drum.

33. 33. The developing cartridge according to claim 31 or 32, The drum cartridge is a pressing member that presses the first bearing toward the photosensitive drum when the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge; Furthermore, a developing cartridge, wherein the other end of the first lever presses the inner surface of the first bearing against the pressing force of the pressing member;

34. 34. The developing cartridge according to any one of claims 31 to 33, A developing cartridge characterized in that, when the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge, when the other end of the first lever presses the inner surface of the first bearing, the first bearing moves along the guide surface of the drum cartridge.

35. 35. The developing cartridge according to any one of claims 31 to 34, A developing cartridge characterized in that, when the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge and the first lever is in the first position, the first end of the first bearing contacts a portion of the drum cartridge.

36. 36. The developer cartridge according to claim 35, A developing cartridge characterized in that, when the developing cartridge is attached to the drum cartridge and the first lever is in the first position, the second end of the first bearing contacts another part of the drum cartridge.

37. 37. The developing cartridge according to any one of claims 21 to 36, The casing comprises: a first outer surface located at one end in the first direction; and A developing cartridge, characterized in that the first bearing is located on the first outer surface, and further, the first bearing extends along the first outer surface between the first end and the second end.

38. 38. The developing cartridge according to any one of claims 21 to 37, The one end of the first lever is A protrusion protruding in a first direction A developing cartridge comprising:

39. 39. The developing cartridge according to any one of claims 21 to 38, one end of the developing roller shaft is inserted into the first insertion hole of the first bearing, The developing cartridge further comprises: a second bearing that can be attached to the other end of the developing roller shaft, the second bearing having a third end having a second insertion hole into which the other end of the developing roller shaft is inserted, and a fourth end that is farther from the developing roller shaft than the third end, the second bearing being movable together with the casing and the developing roller, the second bearing having a third hole that extends in the second direction between the third end and the fourth end; a second lever movable relative to the casing between a third position and a fourth position, one end of the second lever, which functions as a force point; the other end of the second lever, which functions as a point of application; a cam surface located between the one end and the other end and functioning as a fulcrum; a second lever having Equipped with A developing cartridge characterized in that when one end of the second lever receives a driving force and the second lever moves from the third position to the fourth position around the cam surface of the second lever, the other end of the second lever inserted into the third hole presses against the inner surface of the third hole.

40. 40. The developer cartridge according to claim 39, The one end of the second lever is A protrusion protruding in a first direction A developing cartridge comprising:

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