Image forming apparatus

Abstract

To suppress disturbance of a toner image to be formed or already formed on a transfer body when pressing an opposite part moving in a conveyance direction in which an object is conveyed against the transfer body.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus comprising: a transfer section that comes into contact with an object and transfers an image to the object; a facing section that moves together with the object in a conveyance direction of the object and brings the object into contact with the transfer section; and a mechanism that brings the facing section close to the transfer section with movement of the facing section in the conveyance direction and further brings the facing section and the transfer section close to each other after the object comes into contact with the transfer section.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses an image forming apparatus having an image carrier that carries an image on its surface, a transfer member that presses against the image carrier to form a transfer nip and transfers the image on the image carrier to paper, a movable mechanism that moves the transfer member to set the pressure state between the image carrier and the transfer member, and a control unit that variably controls the nip load at the transfer nip by controlling the movable mechanism, wherein after the leading edge of the paper passes through the transfer nip, the control unit controls the nip load to a second load that is greater than a first load, which is the nip load set when the leading edge of the paper enters the transfer nip, based on the transport position of the paper. Patent document 2 discloses an apparatus for printing an image on a generally cylindrical object, comprising: (i) an impression station including a movable imaging surface carrying an ink image; and (ii) a transport mechanism for advancing the object through the impression station, the transport mechanism including a drive member to which a plurality of mandrels supporting each of the objects are rotatably connected, the transport mechanism being configured so that each object rotates as it passes through the impression station and the surface of the object comes into rolling contact with the imaging surface within a nip region of the impression station, thereby transferring the ink image on the imaging surface to the surface of the object; and (iii) an impression platen is provided within the nip region of the impression station on the opposite side of the object from the imaging surface, the impression platen being configured to apply a force to the object directly or via the mandrel to ensure rolling contact between the object and the imaging surface, and being fixed in the direction of movement of the imaging surface. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-72908 [Patent Document 2] Special Publication No. 2022-500284 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] There is an image forming apparatus that transfers a toner image formed on a transfer body to an object. During this transfer, an opposing part that moves in the transport direction of the object may be pressed against the transfer body with the object in between. If the opposing part moves while still in the pressure position pressing the transfer body and enters the transfer body, the impact of the entry can cause distortion in the toner image that is being formed on the transfer body or that has been formed on the transfer body. The present invention aims to suppress disturbance of a toner image formed on or already formed on a transfer body when a facing portion that moves in a transport direction in which an object is transported is pressed against the transfer body. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The invention described in claim 1 is an image forming apparatus characterized by comprising a transfer unit that contacts an object and transfers an image to the object, an opposing unit that moves together with the object in the transport direction of the object and brings the object into contact with the transfer unit, and a mechanism that brings the opposing unit closer to the transfer unit as the opposing unit moves in the transport direction, and that brings the opposing unit and the transfer unit even closer after the object contacts the transfer unit. The invention described in claim 2 is the image forming apparatus described in claim 1, characterized in that the mechanism brings the opposing portion closer to the transfer portion as the opposing portion moves from the upstream side of the transfer position where the transfer portion transfers onto the object in the conveying direction, and brings the object into contact with the transfer portion. The invention described in claim 3 is the image forming apparatus described in claim 2, characterized in that the mechanism brings the object into contact with the transfer unit just before the transfer position, and then brings the opposing unit and the transfer unit closer together as the opposing unit moves, and presses the object against the transfer unit at the transfer position with the pressure required for transfer. The invention described in claim 4 is the image forming apparatus described in claim 3, characterized in that the mechanism moves the opposing portion away from the transfer portion as the opposing portion moves after the transfer of the image to the object is completed. The invention described in claim 5 is the image forming apparatus described in claim 1, characterized in that the mechanism has an inclined surface that contacts the opposing portion and determines the distance between the opposing portion and the transfer portion as the opposing portion moves. The invention of claim 6 is the image forming apparatus of claim 5, characterized in that the inclined surface has a first surface that approaches the transfer unit from the upstream side of the transport direction toward the transfer unit. The invention described in claim 7 is the image forming apparatus described in claim 6, characterized in that the first surface separates the object from the transfer section on the upstream side of the transport direction and brings the object into contact with the transfer section on the downstream side of the transport direction. The invention described in claim 8 is the image forming apparatus described in claim 6, characterized in that the inclined surface is continuous with the first surface and has a second surface for pressing the object against the transfer section with the pressure required for transfer after the object comes into contact with the transfer section due to movement of the opposing section. The invention described in claim 9 is the image forming apparatus described in claim 8, characterized in that the inclined surface has a third surface that is continuous with the second surface and moves away from the transfer portion toward the downstream side of the transport direction from the transfer portion. The invention described in claim 10 is the image forming apparatus described in claim 1, characterized in that the opposing portion supports the object having a circumferential surface from the inner side of the circumferential surface, and the object is sandwiched between the transfer portion and the opposing portion to transfer an image onto the circumferential surface of the object. The invention described in claim 11 is an image forming apparatus described in claim 10, characterized in that the opposing portion contacts and supports one end side and the other end side of the circumferential surface of the object in a direction intersecting the circumferential direction of the circumferential surface of the object and along the circumferential surface. The invention described in claim 12 is the image forming apparatus described in claim 10, characterized in that it is provided with a rotating part that rotates along the conveying direction, and the opposing part is attached to the rotating part and rotates. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to the invention of claim 1, when the opposing portion that moves in the transport direction in which the object is transported is pressed against the transfer body, it is possible to suppress disturbance of the toner image that is formed or has been formed on the transfer body. According to the invention of claim 2, it is possible to suppress the impact on the transfer section. According to the invention of claim 3, it is possible to obtain the pressure necessary for transfer while weakening the impact. According to the invention of claim 4, after transfer, the object can be separated from the transfer unit in conjunction with the movement operation. According to the invention of claim 5, the distance between the opposing part and the transfer part can be determined by moving the opposing part. According to the invention of claim 6, the object can be gradually brought closer to the transfer unit. According to the seventh aspect of the invention, it is possible to suppress the impact on the transfer unit. According to the eighth aspect of the invention, stable transfer can be performed and good image quality can be maintained. According to the invention of claim 9, the object can be gradually moved away from the transfer unit, thereby reducing the impact on the transport path. According to the invention of claim 10, an image can be formed on the circumferential surface of the object. According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, the opposing portion can be made lighter in weight. According to the invention of claim 12, image formation can be carried out continuously. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1]1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus to which a first embodiment is applied. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a transfer unit and a conveying unit of an image forming unit. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a transport unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a fixing plate. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a fixing portion. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a loading portion. [Figure 7] FIG. 7(a) is a diagram showing a state before the fixed portion comes into contact with the first surface, and FIG. 7(b) is a diagram showing a state in which the object comes into contact with the intermediate transfer belt. [Figure 8] 10A is a diagram showing a state in which the object is located directly below the backup roll, and FIG. 10B is a diagram showing a state in which the object is located at transfer position T. FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a transport unit. [Figure 10] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating a mechanism for moving a holding portion in the up and down direction. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The image forming apparatus to which this embodiment is applied is an electrophotographic image forming apparatus. In the electrophotographic method, a transfer unit contacts a medium when an image is transferred to the medium. In this embodiment, a cylindrical metal can having a circumferential surface is assumed as the object to be printed.

[0009] [First embodiment] [Configuration of image forming apparatus 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an image forming apparatus to which the first embodiment is applied. The image forming apparatus 1 includes an image forming unit 10 and a fixing unit 20. Although not specifically shown, the image forming apparatus 1 also includes a control unit that controls the image forming apparatus 1. The control unit includes one or more processors that serve as calculation means and a memory that serves as a work area for data processing. The control unit also includes a storage device that stores programs and data. The control unit may be a single unit that controls the overall operation of the image forming apparatus 1, or may be provided in each of the image forming unit 10, the fixing unit 20, etc.

[0010] The image forming unit 10 includes a transfer unit 100 and a conveying unit 300. The transfer unit 100 is a unit that forms an image formed with particles such as toner, and comes into contact with an object 500 to transfer the image. The conveying unit 300 conveys the object 500 and brings the transfer unit 100 into contact with the object 500. The object 500 with the transferred image is removed from the conveying unit 300 and conveyed to the fixing unit 20. In the image forming unit 10, the direction in which the object 500 moves is referred to as the conveying direction.

[0011] The fixing unit 20 is a unit that fixes the image transferred onto the object 500 to the surface of the object 500 by heating it. The fixing unit 20 is provided with a heat source 21 that generates heat during heating. As the heat source 21, various existing heat sources such as a halogen lamp, a ceramic heater, an infrared lamp, etc. The fixing unit 20 ejects the object 500 with the fixed image thereon. In the first embodiment, a conveying device for conveying the object 500 is provided in each of the image forming unit 10 and the fixing unit 20. However, a single conveying device may be provided for the image forming unit 10 and the fixing unit 20. For example, the conveying unit 300 of the image forming unit 10 may be extended to the fixing unit 20. In this case, the object 500 is conveyed to the fixing unit 20 by the conveying unit 300 and heated in the fixing unit 20 without being removed from the conveying unit 300.

[0012] [Configuration of image forming unit 10] Next, the image forming unit 10 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the transfer unit 100 and the conveying unit 300 of the image forming unit 10. As shown in FIG. The transfer unit 100 forms an image with charged particles and generates an electric field to transfer the image onto the cylindrical surface of a cylindrical target object 500. The transfer unit 100 includes a developing device 110, a primary transfer roll 120, and an intermediate transfer belt 131. The intermediate transfer belt 131 is stretched by rollers 132 and 133 and a backup roll 140 between the developing device 110 and a position where transfer onto the target object 500 occurs. The transfer unit 100 also includes a cleaning device 150 for removing particles adhering to the intermediate transfer belt 131.

[0013] The developing device 110 is a unit that forms an electrostatic latent image of the image to be transferred on a photoreceptor and develops the image by attaching charged particles to the electrostatic latent image on the photoreceptor. The developing device 110 may be an existing device used in electrophotographic image forming apparatuses. FIG. 2 shows an example of a configuration for forming a color image using four colors: yellow, magenta, cyan, and black. A developing device 110 is provided for each of these colors, and in FIG. 2, the developing devices 110 for yellow, magenta, cyan, and black are indicated with the suffixes Y, M, C, and K to indicate the corresponding color. In the following description, when distinguishing between the colors of the developing devices 110, the suffixes Y, M, C, and K are added to the reference numerals. However, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the colors, the suffixes are omitted.

[0014] The primary transfer roll 120 is a unit used to perform primary transfer of an image formed in the developing device 110 onto the intermediate transfer belt 131. The primary transfer roll 120 is disposed opposite the photoconductor of the developing device 110, with the intermediate transfer belt 131 positioned between the developing device 110 and the primary transfer roll 120. A primary transfer roll 120 is provided corresponding to each of the developing devices 110Y, 110M, 110C, and 110K. In FIG. 2, the primary transfer rolls 120 corresponding to the developing devices 110Y, 110M, 110C, and 110K of each color are indicated with suffixes Y, M, C, and K indicating the corresponding color. In the following description, when it is necessary to distinguish between the colors of the primary transfer rolls 120, the suffixes Y, M, C, and K are added to the reference numerals. However, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the colors, the suffixes are not added.

[0015] The intermediate transfer belt 131, rollers 132 and 133, and backup roll 140 are a unit used to transfer an image formed in the developing device 110 to the target object 500. As shown in Fig. 2, the intermediate transfer belt 131 rotates in the direction of the arrow in Fig. 2 (counterclockwise in the illustrated example) while being stretched across the rollers 132 and 133 and the backup roll 140. The rotation of the intermediate transfer belt 131 is achieved, for example, by using one or both of the rollers 132 and 133 as rotationally driven rollers, and pulling the intermediate transfer belt 131 with the rotation of these rollers.

[0016] In the configuration example shown in FIG. 2, the outer surface of the intermediate transfer belt 131 is the surface that holds an image. Hereinafter, this outer surface of the intermediate transfer belt 131 will be referred to as the transfer surface. When the intermediate transfer belt 131 passes between the developing device 110 and the primary transfer roll 120, an image is transferred from the photosensitive element of the developing device 110 to the transfer surface of the intermediate transfer belt 131. In the configuration example shown in FIG. 2, a multicolor image is formed by superimposing images of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) on the transfer surface by the developing devices 110Y, 110M, 110C, and 110K and the primary transfer rolls 120Y, 120M, 120C, and 120K.

[0017] The backup roll 140 brings the transfer surface of the intermediate transfer belt 131 into contact with the target object 500 to transfer the image to the medium (secondary transfer). When transferring the image, a predetermined voltage is applied to the backup roll 140. This generates an electric field (hereinafter referred to as the "transfer electric field") in an area including the backup roll 140 and the target object 500. The image formed by the charged particles is then transferred from the intermediate transfer belt 131 to the target object 500. In this way, to transfer the image from the intermediate transfer belt 131 to the target object 500, a current must flow from the backup roll 140 to the target object 500 via the intermediate transfer belt 131. Here, if the target object 500 is a conductor such as metal, a transfer electric field is generated by the current flowing through the target object 500 itself, and the image is transferred to the surface of the target object 500. On the other hand, if the target object 500 is not a conductor, no current flows through the medium, and the image cannot be transferred as is. For this reason, when a non-conductive material is used as the object 500, it is necessary to allow a current to flow through the object 500 in advance, at least in the area on the surface of the object 500 where an image is to be formed. For example, a layer of a conductive material (hereinafter referred to as a "conductive layer") is formed on the object 500, or other means is used to allow a current to flow through the object 500.

[0018] The procedure for transferring an image by the intermediate transfer belt 131 will be described. As the intermediate transfer belt 131 rotates, developing devices 110Y, 110M, 110C, and 110K and primary transfer rolls 120Y, 120M, 120C, and 120K sequentially overlay images of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) on the transfer surface (outer surface in FIG. 2) of the intermediate transfer belt 131, forming a multi-color image. As the intermediate transfer belt 131 continues to rotate, the image formed on the transfer surface of the intermediate transfer belt 131 moves. The image formed on the intermediate transfer belt 131 then reaches a position (hereinafter referred to as "transfer position T") where it is transferred to the target object 500. As described above, a voltage is applied to the backup roll 140 to generate a transfer electric field, and the image is transferred from the intermediate transfer belt 131 to the target object 500. Hereinafter, the direction in which the backup roll 140 extends may be referred to as the "device direction." 2, the backup roll 140 extends in a direction perpendicular to the paper surface. In FIG. 2, the back side of the paper surface is the back side in the device direction, and the front side of the paper surface in FIG. 2 is the front side in the device direction.

[0019] The cleaning device 150 is a unit that removes particles adhering to the transfer surface of the intermediate transfer belt 131. The cleaning device 150 is provided downstream of the transfer position in the rotation direction of the intermediate transfer belt 131 and upstream of the developing device 110Y and the primary transfer roll 120Y. As a result, after an image is transferred from the intermediate transfer belt 131 to the target object 500, particles remaining on the transfer surface of the intermediate transfer belt 131 are removed by the cleaning device 150. Then, in the next operation cycle, a new image is transferred (primary transfer) to the transfer surface from which the particles have been removed.

[0020] [Transportation section 300] The transport unit 300 includes a circulating unit 330 and a holding unit 350 . The circulating section 330 constitutes a circulating transport path. The holding unit 350 holds the cylindrical target object 500 and brings the target object 500 into contact with the transfer unit 100. The holding unit 350 is attached to the circulating unit 330 and circulates along the conveying path. The holding unit 350 moves together with the target object 500 along part of the circulating conveying path.

[0021] Furthermore, when performing the secondary transfer, the holding unit 350 presses the object 500, which is in contact with the intermediate transfer belt 131, toward the backup roll 140. The holding unit 350 is an example of an opposing unit that faces the backup roll 140 when performing the secondary transfer of an image onto the object 500. A plurality of holding units 350 are provided at predetermined intervals on the transport path of circulating unit 330.

[0022] When performing the secondary transfer onto the object 500, the rotation of the circumferential unit 330 is stopped, and the object 500 is temporarily stopped at the transfer position T. At the transfer position T, the circumferential surface of the object 500 rotates in response to the intermediate transfer belt 131, and an image is transferred onto the circumferential surface of the object 500. In addition, the object 500 is attached to or detached from the holding unit 350 in accordance with the timing at which the rotation of the circumferential unit 330 is stopped. More specifically, a new object 500 is supplied upstream of the transfer position T in the transport direction and attached to the holding unit 350. In addition, the object 500 to which the image has been transferred is removed from the holding unit 350 downstream of the transfer position T in the transport direction.

[0023] Next, the transport unit 300 will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the conveying section 300. As shown in FIG. The device direction shown in Fig. 3 is a direction perpendicular to the conveying direction, and is the axial direction of the backup roll 140 (see Fig. 2). Fig. 3 also shows a state in which one object 500 is held by one of the holding parts 350.

[0024] The transport unit 300 includes a frame 310 and a load unit 370 in addition to the circulating unit 330 and the holding unit 350 described above. The frame 310 serves as a base on which the components of the transport unit 300 are attached. The frame 310 is disposed below the transfer unit 100 (see FIG. 2). The frame 310 is a flat plate-shaped member, and is disposed so that the plate surface faces the device.

[0025] The load section 370 moves the holding section 350 in the vertical direction, which is a direction intersecting the conveyance direction. The load section 370 is disposed below the backup roll 140 (see FIG. 2). The load section 370 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 6.

[0026] [Circulation section 330] The orbiting part 330 includes a first sprocket 331, a second sprocket 332, and a chain 333. The orbiting part 330 also includes a drive source 334 that drives the first sprocket 331. The first sprocket 331 is rotatably attached to the frame 310. The first sprocket 331 is provided on the downstream side of the frame 310 in the conveying direction. The second sprocket 332 is rotatably attached to the frame 310. The second sprocket 332 is provided on the upstream side of the frame 310 in the conveying direction.

[0027] Chain 333 is wound around first sprocket 331 and second sprocket 332 and rotates. In the illustrated example, chain 333 is a roller chain in which outer links and inner links are alternately combined and connected. Fixing plates 336 for fixing holding portion 350 are provided on some of the plates that make up the roller chain. A plurality of fixing plates 336 are provided at intervals for attaching holding portion 350 to chain 333. Fixing plates 336 will be described in detail using Figure 4.

[0028] Driving source 334 is attached at a position facing first sprocket 331 across frame 310. Driving source 334 is connected to the rotation shaft of first sprocket 331 and rotates first sprocket 331. Any driving source 334 may be used as long as it can control the rotation of first sprocket 331, and one example is a stepping motor.

[0029] [Holding part 350] The holding portion 350 includes a fixing portion 351 , a shaft 352 , and a support portion 355 . The fixing portion 351 is a substantially cubic member that fixes the holding portion 350 to the chain 333. The fixing portion 351 is fixed to the fixing plate 336. The fixing portion 351 comes into contact with the load portion 370 while moving in the conveyance direction. The fixing portion 351 comes into contact with the load portion 370, bringing the holding portion 350 and the transfer portion 100 closer together. The fixing portion 351 and the load portion 370 are an example of a mechanism that brings the holding portion 350 and the transfer portion 100 closer together. The fixing portion 351 will be described in detail using FIG. 5.

[0030] The shaft 352 is a rod-shaped member. The shaft 352 is disposed so as to extend in the device direction. One end of the shaft 352 in the extending direction is attached to the fixed part 351. The shaft 352 has a through-hole perpendicular to the extending direction of the shaft 352 on the side of the one end attached to the fixed part 351. The shaft 352 is attached to the fixed part 351 by passing a bolt through this through-hole.

[0031] The support unit 355 supports the object 500, which has a circumferential surface, from the inner circumferential side of the circumferential surface. When an image is transferred onto the object 500, the support unit 355 sandwiches the object 500 between the transfer unit 100 and the support unit 355. The support portion 355 is attached to the shaft 352 and has a circumferential surface centered on the shaft 352. The radius of this circumferential surface is shorter than the inner radius of the circumferential surface of the object 500 so as to support the object 500 from the inside of the circumferential surface of the object 500.

[0032] In the first embodiment, the support portion 355 includes a rear support portion 355a and a front support portion 355b. The rear support portion 355a is fixed to the shaft 352, and is fixed to the rear side of the shaft 352 in the device direction. The rear support portion 355a is disk-shaped and includes a bearing in the center of the disk. The shaft 352 is fixed to the inner ring of this bearing, and is attached so as to be rotatable around the shaft 352.

[0033] The front support part 355b has the same configuration as the back support part 355a. The front support part 355b is fixed to the shaft 352, and is fixed to the front side of the shaft 352 in the device direction. The front support part 355b is disk-shaped and has a bearing in the center of the disk. The shaft 352 is fixed to the inner ring of this bearing, and is attached so as to be rotatable around the shaft 352.

[0034] The rear support portion 355a and the front support portion 355b are disposed at a predetermined interval in the direction in which the shaft 352 extends. This predetermined interval is determined, for example, according to the area of ​​the object 500 to which an image is to be transferred. For example, the rear support portion 355a and the front support portion 355b are disposed at an interval such that one end and the other end of the area to which an image is to be transferred can be supported in the direction in which the cylindrical object 500 extends. In other words, the support portion 355 contacts and supports one end and the other end of the circumferential surface of the object 500 in a direction that intersects the circumferential direction of the circumferential surface and runs along the circumferential surface. Furthermore, the support portion 355 may be, for example, a cylindrical member that contacts the entire area of ​​the circumferential surface of the object 500 to which an image is to be transferred.

[0035] Next, the state in which the fixing portion 351 is fixed to the fixing plate 336 will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the fixing plate 336. As shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the fixing portion 351. As shown in FIG. The fixing plate 336 shown in FIG. 4 includes two pin holes 337 and an attachment portion 338 . Pin hole 337 is a through hole for passing a pin for connecting links of chain 333 (see FIG. 3). Mounting portion 338 is a plate-shaped portion for attaching fixed portion 351 (see FIG. 5). Mounting portion 338 has mounting hole 339, which is a through hole for passing a bolt for attaching fixed portion 351.

[0036] The device direction shown in Fig. 5 indicates the orientation of the fixing part 351 when the fixing part 351 is attached to the fixing plate 336. The transport direction shown in Fig. 5 indicates the orientation of the fixing part 351 when the fixing part 351 is being transported toward the load part 370 (see Fig. 3). The up-down direction shown in Fig. 5 indicates the orientation of the fixing part 351 when the fixing part 351 is being transported toward the load part 370.

[0037] The fixing portion 351 includes a shaft hole 361 , a top portion 362 , a bolt hole 363 , and a bottom portion 364 . The shaft hole 361 is a through-hole provided in the fixed part 351, and the direction in which the through-hole penetrates is along the device direction. The shaft hole 361 is provided to match the shape of the shaft 352 (see FIG. 3) so that the shaft 352 can be inserted therein. The top portion 362 is the upper surface in the vertical direction. The top portion 362 comes into contact with the attachment portion 338 of the fixed plate 336 when the fixed plate 336 and the fixed portion 351 are fixed together. The top portion 362 is used for alignment between the fixed portion 351 and the fixed plate 336.

[0038] Bolt hole 363 is a through hole into which a bolt is inserted that connects fixing plate 336, fixing portion 351, and shaft 352. Shaft hole 361 and bolt hole 363 intersect inside fixing portion 351. A through hole provided at the end of shaft 352 inserted through shaft hole 361 is made to communicate with bolt hole 363. A bolt is inserted with the through hole of shaft 352 and bolt hole 363 communicating with each other, and fixing plate 336 and shaft 352 are fixed to fixing portion 351.

[0039] The bottom 364 is a surface located on the opposite side to the top 362. The bottom 364 has an R-shape, and the circumferential direction of the arc is along the conveying direction, and the surface is convex downward in the up-down direction. Of the surfaces of the bottom 364, the side located on the downstream side in the conveying direction is referred to as the downstream surface 364a. Of the surfaces of the bottom 364, the side located on the upstream side in the conveying direction is referred to as the upstream surface 364b. The dashed dotted line in FIG. 5 indicates the boundary between the downstream surface 364a and the upstream surface 364b. The downstream surface 364a is a surface that extends upward in the up-down direction as it approaches the downstream side in the conveying direction. The upstream surface 364b is a surface that extends downward in the up-down direction as it approaches the downstream side in the conveying direction.

[0040] [Configuration of Loading Section 370] Next, the load portion 370 will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the load section 370. As shown in FIG. The load portion 370 includes a lower plate 371, an upper plate 372, a bolt 373, and an elastic member 374. The load portion 370 also includes an inclined surface 377 on the upper side of the upper plate 372.

[0041] Lower plate 371 is fixed to frame 310 and serves as a base that supports the entire load section 370. Lower plate 371 is a plate-shaped member and is disposed so that its plate surface is substantially horizontal. Lower plate 371 is fixed to frame 310 via an L-shaped bracket. Lower plate 371 is formed with screw holes 371a and 371b for fixing bolts 373. Female threads are formed on the inner circumferential surfaces of screw holes 371a and 371b. Screw holes 371a and 371b are provided along the conveyance direction.

[0042] Upper plate 372 is a plate-like member and is disposed above lower plate 371 via elastic member 374. Upper plate 372 has a rectangular plate surface and is disposed so that the longitudinal direction of the rectangle is along the conveyance direction. Upper plate 372 is provided with through holes 372a and 372b for passing bolts 373 therethrough.

[0043] Bolt 373 connects lower plate 371 and upper plate 372. Bolt 373 has a bolt head and a bolt shank. The bolt shank has a smooth body and a threaded portion with an external thread. The threaded portion is provided at the tip of bolt 373 on the side opposite the head. The external threads of this threaded portion are fixed to the internal threads of screw hole 371a or screw hole 371b of lower plate 371. Upper plate 372 can move up and down along the body of bolt 373 via through hole 372a and through hole 372b.

[0044] The elastic member 374 applies a force to move the lower plate 371 and the upper plate 372 apart. The elastic member 374 is disposed between the lower plate 371 and the upper plate 372. The elastic member 374 is compressed when the lower plate 371 and the upper plate 372 approach each other. The type of the elastic member 374 is not particularly limited as long as it generates a repulsive force when compressed. The elastic member 374 is, for example, a compression coil spring, a leaf spring, a disc spring, or other spring. Alternatively, the elastic member 374 may be made of elastic rubber or the like. In the illustrated example, the elastic member 374 is a compression coil spring. The elastic member 374 is disposed in a state where it is wrapped around the body of the bolt 373.

[0045] Inclined surface 377 comes into contact with holding unit 350 (see FIG. 3) and determines the distance between holding unit 350 and transfer unit 100 as holding unit 350 moves. Inclined surface 377 is formed by bending a plate-shaped base material. Inclined surface 377 includes first surface 377a, second surface 377b, and third surface 377c. Inclined surface 377 also includes reinforcing portions 377j and 377k for maintaining the shape of inclined surface 377.

[0046] The first surface 377a comes into contact with the fixing portion 351 before transfer. The first surface 377a extends upward in the vertical direction from the upstream side to the downstream side in the conveyance direction. In other words, the inclined surface 377 has the first surface 377a approaching the backup roll 140 (see FIG. 2) as it moves from the upstream side in the conveyance direction toward the backup roll 140.

[0047] The second surface 377b comes into contact with the fixing portion 351 during transfer. The second surface 377b is provided continuously with the first surface 377a and is provided downstream of the first surface 377a in the transport direction. The height of the second surface 377b is the same between the upstream side and the downstream side in the transport direction, and the second surface 377b is disposed approximately parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0048] The third surface 377c comes into contact with the fixing portion 351 after transfer. The third surface 377c is provided continuous with the second surface 377b and is provided downstream of the second surface 377b in the conveying direction. The third surface 377c extends downward in the up-down direction as it progresses from the upstream side to the downstream side in the conveying direction. In other words, the third surface 377c extends away from the backup roll 140 as it progresses from the upstream side to the downstream side in the conveying direction. The third surface 377c is continuous with the second surface 377b and moves away from the transfer position T (see FIG. 2) downstream in the conveying direction.

[0049] The reinforcing portion 377j extends downward in the up-down direction from the rear side of the second surface 377b in the device direction. The tip of the reinforcing portion 377j extending from the second surface 377b is in contact with the upper plate 372. The reinforcing portion 377k extends downward in the up-down direction from the rear side of the second surface 377b in the device direction. The tip of the reinforcing portion 377k that extends from the second surface 377b contacts the upper plate 372, similar to the reinforcing portion 377j.

[0050] [Relationship between the inclined surface 377 of the load portion 370 and the fixed portion 351] Next, the relationship between the inclined surface 377 and the fixing portion 351 will be described with reference to Figures 7(a), (b) and 8(a) and (b). Figures 7(a), (b) and 8(a), (b) are schematic diagrams of the backup roll 140 viewed from the front side to the back side in the device direction. 7A is a diagram showing a state before the fixed part 351 comes into contact with the first surface 377a, and FIG. 7B is a diagram showing a state in which the target object 500 comes into contact with the intermediate transfer belt 131. 8(a) is a diagram showing a state in which the target object 500 is located directly below the backup roll 140. FIG. 8(b) is a diagram showing a state in which the target object 500 is located at the transfer position T.

[0051] To form an image along the circumferential direction on the side surface, which is the circumferential surface of the object 500, it is necessary to move the side surface of the object 500 in accordance with the progress of the intermediate transfer belt 131 while the object 500 is stopped at the transfer position T. For this reason, the support unit 355 holds the object 500 so that the central axis of the circumferential surface of the object 500 is perpendicular to the progress of the intermediate transfer belt 131 at the transfer position, and rotates the object 500. The direction of rotation of the object 500 is the direction in which the progress of the circumferential surface coincides with the transfer direction of the intermediate transfer belt 131 at the position where the intermediate transfer belt 131 and the circumferential surface of the object 500 come into contact. In the examples shown in FIGS. 7(a) and 7(b) and 8(a) and 8(b), the object 500 is shown with the central axis of the circumferential surface perpendicular to the plane of the paper. The intermediate transfer belt 131 moves from left to right in the drawing, and the object 500 rotates rightward (clockwise) in the drawing.

[0052] The fixed part 351 moves in the conveying direction as the chain 333 (see FIG. 3) moves in the conveying direction. Point P shown in FIG. 7(a) indicates the center point of the axis of the shaft 352 (see FIG. 3) fixed to the fixed part 351. The support part 355 has a circular outer shape centered on this point P. FIG. 7 shows the circumferential surface of the cylindrical object 500. The support part 355 contacts the inside of the circumferential surface of the object 500 and supports the object 500. The support part 355 moves in the conveying direction together with the object 500.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 7(a), the first surface 377a and the downstream surface 364a face each other. As the chain 333 moves in the conveyance direction, the downstream surface 364a of the fixed part 351 approaches the first surface 377a while maintaining the same orientation. As a result, the orientation of the downstream surface 364a does not change before and after contact between the downstream surface 364a and the first surface 377a. Therefore, disturbance of the chain 333 is suppressed when the downstream surface 364a and the first surface 377a come into contact with each other.

[0054] 7(b), the fixed portion 351 is moved in the conveyance direction and also moves upward along the first surface 377a. As a result, the outer circumferential side of the circumferential surface of the object 500 comes into contact with the intermediate transfer belt 131. In other words, the first surface 377a separates the object 500 from the intermediate transfer belt 131 on the upstream side of the first surface 377a in the conveyance direction. Furthermore, the first surface 377a brings the object 500 into contact with the intermediate transfer belt 131 on the downstream side of the first surface 377a in the conveyance direction.

[0055] When the object 500 comes into contact with the intermediate transfer belt 131, it is driven by the movement of the intermediate transfer belt 131. The object 500 rotates around the central axis of the circumferential surface of the object 500. The object 500 comes into contact with the intermediate transfer belt 131 just before the transfer position T in the movement direction of the intermediate transfer belt 131, and while rotating, changes its position facing the backup roll 140 and approaches the transfer position T. In other words, after the object 500 comes into contact with the transfer unit 100, the load unit 370 brings the holding unit 350 and the transfer unit 100 even closer together.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 7(b), the distance between the backup roll 140 and the first surface 377a decreases as the first surface 377a advances in the conveying direction. The backup roll 140 is fixed and does not move even when the target object 500 is pressed against it. On the other hand, the first surface 377a can move downward as the upper plate 372 sinks toward the lower plate 371. Therefore, the fixing portion 351 presses the target object 500 toward the backup roll 140 via the support portion 355, and advances in the conveying direction while sinking the upper plate 372.

[0057] As the fixing portion 351 advances in the conveyance direction along the first surface 377a, it moves continuously from the first surface 377a along the second surface 377b. As shown in Fig. 8(a), the downstream surface 364a of the fixing portion 351 presses the second surface 377b downward, causing the upper plate 372 to sink downward.

[0058] The sinking length of the upper plate 372 is shown as length D1 in Figure 8(a). The elastic member 374 is compressed between the upper plate 372 and the lower plate 371. By being compressed, the elastic member 374 applies an upward force to the upper plate 372. The pressure between the intermediate transfer belt 131 and the target object 500, which are sandwiched between the backup roll 140 and the support part 355, increases.

[0059] As the fixing unit 351 advances in the transport direction along the second surface 377b, the object 500 is transported to the transfer position T shown in FIG. 8B. When the object 500 is transported to the transfer position T, the second surface 377b presses the object 500 against the transfer unit 100 with the pressure required for transfer after the object 500 comes into contact with the transfer unit 100 due to the movement of the holding unit 350. Furthermore, when the object 500 is transported to the transfer position T, the rotation of the first sprocket 331 (see FIG. 3) is stopped. When the rotation of the first sprocket 331 is stopped, the movement of the fixing unit 351 in the transport direction stops, and the object 500 remains at the transfer position T. While the object 500 remains at the transfer position T, the circumferential surface of the object 500 rotates, and transfer is performed. Then, after the transfer of the image to the object 500 is completed, the first sprocket 331 is rotated, and the holding unit 350 is moved in the transport direction. As the holding unit 350 moves, the holding unit 350 moves away from the transfer unit 100 .

[0060] 8(b), the length by which the upper plate 372 is recessed when the object 500 is transported to the transfer position T is shown as length D2, where D1>D2. At the transfer position T, the elastic member 374 is in a compressed state, and applies upward nip pressure, pressing the object 500 against the intermediate transfer belt 131 of the transfer unit 100 with the pressure required for transfer.

[0061] 8(b), as the fixing portion 351 further moves in the transport direction along the second surface 377b, it reaches a third surface 377c that is continuous with the second surface 377b. At the third surface 377c, the bottom 364 of the fixing portion 351 moves downstream in the transport direction while contacting the third surface 377c. As a result, the target object 500 gradually moves away from the transfer unit 100.

[0062] In the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7A, the target object 500 moves in the conveyance direction at a position lower than the transfer position, and the load unit 370 moves the target object 500 upward in the vertical direction to the height of the transfer position T shown in FIG. 8B. For example, if the target object 500 is conveyed at the height of the transfer position T without using the load unit 370 before contacting the intermediate transfer belt 131, an impact is applied instantaneously when the target object 500 contacts the backup roll 140. In the first embodiment, the impact when the target object 500 contacts the intermediate transfer belt 131 is suppressed by gradually moving the target object 500 closer to the transfer position T after contacting the intermediate transfer belt 131.

[0063] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, as shown in Fig. 8(b), when the object 500 is at the transfer position T, the elastic member 374 is compressed, and the force with which the object 500 is pressed against the transfer unit 100 becomes stronger. On the other hand, as shown in Fig. 7(b), when the object 500 begins to contact the transfer unit 100, the elastic member 374 is not compressed as compared to the state in Fig. 8(b), and the force with which the object 500 is pressed against the transfer unit 100 is weaker. Therefore, the impact when the object 500 begins to contact the transfer unit 100 is suppressed.

[0064] In the first embodiment, the transfer position T is not located directly below the backup roll 140, but is located further downstream from the position directly below the backup roll 140. However, the transfer position may also be located directly below the backup roll 140. For example, if it is desired to transfer the image over substantially the entire circumference of the cylindrical periphery of the target object 500, it is necessary to quickly separate the target object 500 from the intermediate transfer belt 131 after transferring the image over substantially the entire circumference of the target object 500. However, if transfer is performed on the target object 500 at a position directly below the backup roll 140, the pressure from the load unit 370 makes it difficult for the target object 500 to separate from the intermediate transfer belt 131 after transfer is completed. Therefore, there is a possibility that the intermediate transfer belt 131 may again come into contact with the area of ​​the circumferential surface of the target object 500 where the image has already been transferred. In this case, distortion of the transferred image may occur. When the transfer is performed at a position further downstream from the position directly below the backup roll 140, the object 500 can be separated from the intermediate transfer belt 131 more quickly than when the transfer is performed at a position directly below the backup roll 140, and the occurrence of distortion in the transferred image is suppressed.

[0065] Second Embodiment The second embodiment uses a transport unit 400 that has a different configuration from the transport unit 300 of the first embodiment. Note that the same reference numerals are used for functions that are the same as those in the first embodiment, and descriptions thereof will be omitted here. 9 is a diagram for explaining the conveying unit 400, showing the state of the conveying unit 400 after transfer has been performed on the target object 500. The conveying unit 400 includes a frame 410, a conveying rail 420, and a moving body 430. The conveying unit 400 also includes a holding unit 450 that holds the target object 500, and a load unit 370. The frame 410 serves as a base that supports the conveying unit 400 from below in the vertical direction. The frame 410 extends in the conveying direction. The transport rail 420 is arranged along the transport direction and determines the path along which the moving body 430 moves.

[0066] The moving body 430 moves along the transport rail 420. The moving body 430 repeats moving from the upstream side to the downstream side of the loading section 370 in the transport direction and from the downstream side to the upstream side of the loading section 370. The moving body 430 is an example of a circulating section. The moving body 430 includes a leg portion 431 and a main body portion 432 . The legs 431 are attached so as to be movable along the transport rails 420. There are no particular limitations on the mechanism by which the legs 431 move along the transport rails 420. For example, the legs 431 may be provided with a drive unit so as to be self-propelled, or the transport rails 420 may be provided with a means for pulling the legs 431. The main body 432 is a member extending in the longitudinal direction and disposed approximately parallel to the conveying direction. A plurality of holding units 450 are attached to the main body 432 at predetermined intervals in the longitudinal direction. In the second embodiment, eight holding units 450 are attached to the main body 432.

[0067] The holding unit 450 holds the target objects 500. The target objects 500 are attached to the holding unit 450 in a number equal to the number of targets 500 to be printed, with the entire movable body 430 positioned upstream in the transport direction. The target objects 500 are removed from the holding unit 450 by removing the target objects 500 onto which the image has been transferred, with the entire movable body 430 positioned downstream in the transport direction.

[0068] The load section 370 is provided below the transfer position T (see FIG. 2), and contacts the holding section 450 to bring it closer to the transfer position T. The load section 370 is disposed on the upper part of a support column 470 extending upward from the frame 410.

[0069] Next, with reference to FIG. 10, a mechanism for vertically moving the holding portion 450 (see FIG. 9) will be described. 10 is a diagram illustrating a mechanism for vertically moving the holding portion 450. In FIG. 10, a part of the holding portion 450 is removed in order to illustrate the fixing portion 451 and the outer slider 436. The main body 432 includes an outer slider 436. A plurality of outer sliders 436 are provided on the main body 432 at predetermined intervals. In the second embodiment, eight outer sliders 436 are provided. The outer sliders 436 hold the holder 450 so that it can move in the vertical direction. The outer slider 436 includes a gap that allows the inner slider 465, which will be described later, to move in the vertical direction. This gap extends from the top to the bottom of the outer slider 436 in the vertical direction.

[0070] The holding portion 450 includes a fixing portion 451 in addition to the shaft 352 and support portion 355 of the holding portion 350 described above. The fixed part 451 moves up and down along the gap in the outer slider 436. In addition to the configuration of the fixed part 351, the fixed part 451 includes an inner slider 465 that is inserted into the gap in the outer slider 436. The inner slider 465 extends downward in the up-down direction from a bottom part 364 of the fixed part 451. With the inner slider 465 inserted into the gap in the outer slider 436, the fixed part 451 comes to rest with the bottom part 364 of the fixed part 451 in contact with the upper surface of the outer slider 436.

[0071] The contact portion 454 is provided on the shaft 352, and is provided on the front side of the fixed portion 451 in the device direction. The contact portion 454 is arranged in a position in the device direction where at least a portion of the contact portion 454 overlaps with the inclined surface 377 of the load portion 370. The contact portion 454 is a cylindrical member, and is formed, for example, from a slippery resin material.

[0072] Here, the transfer operation according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. When transferring to the target object 500, first, the target object 500 is attached to the holding unit 450 on the upstream side in the transport direction. Then, the movable body 430 is transported downstream along the transport rail 420. As the movable body 430 is transported downstream, the contact portion 454 of the most downstream holding unit 450 in the main body 432 comes into contact with the inclined surface 377 of the load unit 370. The contact portion 454 is moved upward along the first surface 377a while proceeding in the transport direction. When the contact portion 454 moves upward, the entire holding unit 450 moves upward. At this time, the inner slider 465 moves upward within the gap of the outer slider 436.

[0073] Then, contact portion 454 moves upward along first surface 377a while advancing in the conveyance direction, causing object 500 to come into contact with intermediate transfer belt 131 (see FIG. 7(b)). When contact portion 454 advances further in the conveyance direction, it moves along second surface 377b, and object 500 is conveyed to transfer position T (see FIG. 8(b)). When object 500 is conveyed to transfer position T, movement of movable body 430 stops. Then, object 500 remains at transfer position T, and the circumferential surface of object 500 rotates while contacting the image formed on intermediate transfer belt 131, and the image is transferred.

[0074] When transfer onto the target object 500 is completed, the movement of the movable body 430 resumes, and the contact portion 454 moves forward in the conveyance direction. The contact portion 454 moves downward along the third surface 377c while moving in the conveyance direction. When the bottom portion 364 of the fixed portion 351 comes into contact with the upper side of the outer slider 436, the contact portion 454 can no longer move downward. The contact portion 454, which can no longer move downward, can no longer move along the third surface 377c, and moves away from the third surface 377c while moving in the conveyance direction.

[0075] In this way, when transfer onto the object 500 held by the holder 450 located furthest downstream in the main body 432 is completed, the holder 450 located next most downstream in the main body 432 comes into contact with the load unit 370 and transfer onto the object 500. This transfer operation is repeated to continuously transfer onto the objects 500 attached to the holders 450 of the movable body 430. When the entire movable body 430 moves downstream of the load unit 370 in the conveying direction, the object 500 attached to the holder 450 is removed. After the object 500 has been removed, the movable body 430 moves upstream of the load unit 370 in the conveying direction and waits.

[0076] Although the first and second embodiments have been described above, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. For example, the above embodiments have been described with respect to an electrophotographic image forming apparatus. However, the embodiments may also be applied to an image forming apparatus that forms an image on an intermediate transfer belt using an inkjet method and transfers it to an object. In addition, various modifications and alternative configurations that do not deviate from the scope of the technical concept of the present invention are included in the present invention.

[0077] (Addendum) (((1))) a transfer unit that contacts an object and transfers an image to the object; a facing section that moves together with the object in a conveyance direction of the object and brings the object into contact with the transfer section; a mechanism for moving the opposing portion closer to the transfer portion as the opposing portion moves in the conveyance direction, and for moving the opposing portion closer to the transfer portion after the object comes into contact with the transfer portion; An image forming apparatus comprising: (((2))) The mechanism moves the opposing part from the upstream side of a transfer position where the transfer part performs transfer onto the object in the transport direction toward the transfer part as the opposing part moves, and brings the object into contact with the transfer part. The image forming apparatus according to (((1))) is characterized by: (((3))) The mechanism brings the object into contact with the transfer unit before the transfer position, and then moves the opposing unit closer to the transfer unit as the opposing unit moves, and presses the object against the transfer unit at the transfer position with a pressure required for transfer. The image forming apparatus according to (((2))) is characterized by: (((4))) The mechanism moves the facing part away from the transfer part after the transfer of the image to the object is completed. The image forming apparatus according to (((3))) is characterized by: (((5))) The mechanism has an inclined surface that comes into contact with the opposing portion and determines the distance between the opposing portion and the transfer portion as the opposing portion moves. The image forming apparatus according to (((1))) is characterized by: (((6))) The inclined surface has a first surface that approaches the transfer unit from the upstream side in the transport direction toward the transfer unit. The image forming apparatus according to (((5))) is characterized by: (((7))) The first surface separates the object from the transfer unit on the upstream side in the conveying direction and brings the object into contact with the transfer unit on the downstream side in the conveying direction. The image forming apparatus according to (((6))) is characterized by: (((8))) The inclined surface has a second surface that is continuous with the first surface and that presses the object against the transfer unit with a pressure required for transfer after the object comes into contact with the transfer unit due to movement of the facing portion. The image forming apparatus according to (((6))) is characterized by: (((9))) The inclined surface has a third surface that is continuous with the second surface and that moves away from the transfer unit toward the downstream side in the transport direction. The image forming apparatus according to (((8))) is characterized by: (((10))) the opposing portion supports the object having a circumferential surface from an inner circumferential side of the circumferential surface, The object is sandwiched between the transfer unit and the opposing unit, and an image is transferred onto the circumferential surface of the object. The image forming apparatus according to any one of (((1))) to (((9))) is characterized by the following. (((11))) The opposing portion contacts and supports one end side and the other end side of the circumferential surface of the object in a direction that intersects with the circumferential direction of the circumferential surface of the object and is along the circumferential surface. The image forming apparatus according to (((10))) is characterized by: (((12))) a rotating unit that rotates along the conveying direction, The facing portion is attached to the circumferential portion and rotates. The image forming apparatus according to any one of (((1))) to (((11))) is characterized by the following.

[0078] According to the invention (((1))), when the opposing portion that moves in the transport direction in which the object is transported is pressed against the transfer body, it is possible to suppress disturbance of the toner image that is formed on or has been formed on the transfer body. According to the invention (((2))), it is possible to suppress the impact on the transfer unit. According to the invention of (((3))), it is possible to obtain the pressure necessary for transfer while weakening the impact. According to the invention (((4))), after transfer, the object can be separated from the transfer unit in conjunction with the movement operation. According to the invention (((5))), the distance between the opposing portion and the transfer portion can be determined by moving the opposing portion. According to the invention of (((6))), the target object can be brought closer gradually. According to the invention (((7))), it is possible to suppress the impact on the transfer unit. According to the invention (((8))), stable transfer can be performed and good image quality can be maintained. According to the invention of (((9))), the object can be gradually moved away from the transfer section, thereby reducing the impact on the transport path. According to the invention of (((10))), an image can be formed on the circumferential surface of an object. According to the invention (((11))), the opposing portion can be made lighter in weight. According to the invention (((12))), image formation can be carried out continuously. [Explanation of symbols]

[0079] 1...image forming apparatus, 10...image forming section, 100...transfer section, 140...backup roll, 300, 400...conveying section, 330...circling section, 333...chain, 350...holding section, 351...fixing section, 355...supporting section, 355a...rear side supporting section, 355b...front side supporting section, 370...loading section, 377...inclined surface, 377a...first surface, 377b...second surface, 377c...third surface, 420...conveying rail, 430...moving body, 450...holding section, 454...contact section, 500...target object, T...transfer position

Claims

1. a transfer unit that contacts an object and transfers an image to the object; a facing section that moves together with the object in a conveyance direction of the object and brings the object into contact with the transfer section; a mechanism for moving the opposing portion closer to the transfer portion as the opposing portion moves in the conveyance direction, and for moving the opposing portion closer to the transfer portion after the object comes into contact with the transfer portion; An image forming apparatus comprising:

2. The mechanism moves the opposing part from the upstream side of a transfer position where the transfer part performs transfer onto the object in the transport direction toward the transfer part as the opposing part moves, and brings the object into contact with the transfer part.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

3. The mechanism brings the object into contact with the transfer unit before the transfer position, and then moves the opposing unit closer to the transfer unit as the opposing unit moves, and presses the object against the transfer unit at the transfer position with a pressure required for transfer.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein:

4. The mechanism moves the facing part away from the transfer part after the transfer of the image to the object is completed.

4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein:

5. The mechanism has an inclined surface that comes into contact with the opposing portion and determines the distance between the opposing portion and the transfer portion as the opposing portion moves.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

6. The inclined surface has a first surface that approaches the transfer unit from the upstream side in the transport direction toward the transfer unit.

6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 5,

7. The first surface separates the object from the transfer unit on the upstream side in the conveying direction and brings the object into contact with the transfer unit on the downstream side in the conveying direction.

7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein:

8. The inclined surface has a second surface that is continuous with the first surface and that presses the object against the transfer unit with a pressure required for transfer after the object comes into contact with the transfer unit due to movement of the facing portion.

7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein:

9. The inclined surface has a third surface that is continuous with the second surface and that moves away from the transfer portion toward the downstream side in the transport direction.

9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein:

10. the opposing portion supports the object having a circumferential surface from an inner circumferential side of the circumferential surface, The object is sandwiched between the transfer unit and the opposing unit, and an image is transferred onto the circumferential surface of the object.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

11. The opposing portion contacts and supports one end side and the other end side of the circumferential surface of the object in a direction that intersects with the circumferential direction of the circumferential surface of the object and is along the circumferential surface.

11. The image forming apparatus according to claim 10,

12. a rotating unit that rotates along the conveying direction, The facing portion is attached to the circumferential portion and rotates.

11. The image forming apparatus according to claim 10,

Images