Image forming apparatus

Abstract

This invention provides a technology for accurately mounting cartridges into trays that can be housed in the main body of an image forming apparatus. [Solution] An image forming apparatus is used, comprising a tray that is movable from a pull-out position to a mounting position relative to the main body of the apparatus and has multiple holding parts for holding multiple cartridges, and a limiting part including a first limiting part and a second limiting part located downstream of the first limiting part in the mounting direction, wherein a normal cartridge is held in the tray in the normal position, and a non-normal cartridge is held in a non-normal position protruding upward, and multiple cartridges have protruding parts, and below the first limiting part when the tray is mounted, the protruding part of the downstream cartridge is lower than the protruding part of the upstream cartridge, and when mounting the tray that holds the non-normal cartridges, the protruding parts come into contact with the first limiting part or the second limiting part.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Some image forming apparatuses such as printers, copiers, and multifunction devices have a cartridge removably mounted on a tray that moves between the inside and outside of the apparatus main body.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for restricting the movement of a tray by bringing the cartridge into contact with the apparatus main body during the process of moving the tray into the apparatus main body when cartridges with different specifications are mounted on the tray.

[0004] Further, Patent Document 2 discloses a configuration in which the posture of the tray is different when the tray is inside the apparatus main body and when it is outside, in order to achieve both miniaturization of the apparatus main body and improvement of the cartridge attachability / detachability to the tray.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] When mounting a cartridge on a tray, mounting cartridges with different product specifications or developer colors may cause inconvenience in image formation. The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a technique for accurately mounting a cartridge on a tray that can be accommodated in the main body of an image forming apparatus.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] This invention employs the following configuration: The main body of the device, A tray that moves in the mounting direction and is movable from a pull-out position outside the main body of the device to a mounting position mounted on the main body of the device, the tray having a plurality of holding parts for holding a plurality of cartridges containing developer so that each of them is arranged in the mounting direction, A limiting portion provided on the main body of the device includes a first limiting portion and a second limiting portion located downstream of the first limiting portion in the mounting direction, An image forming apparatus comprising, When the regular cartridge, which corresponds to the holding portion, is mounted in the tray, the cartridge is held in the regular position. If a non-standard cartridge, which is a non-standard cartridge that does not correspond to the aforementioned holding part, is mounted in the tray, the non-standard cartridge will be held in a non-standard position that protrudes above the tray compared to the standard cartridge in the standard position. Each of the aforementioned cartridges is provided with a projection that protrudes upward, When the tray with multiple standard cartridges installed moves from the installation position to the withdrawal position, the protruding portion of each of the multiple cartridges passes below the limiting portion, and the tray reaches the installation position. Of the multiple regular cartridges supported by the tray, the one at the bottom in the mounting direction The standard cartridge located in the stream is designated as the downstream cartridge, and the standard cartridge located at the upstream end is designated as the upstream cartridge. When the tray with multiple standard cartridges installed moves from the pull-out position to the installation position, the position of the protrusion of the downstream cartridge at the time the protrusion of the downstream cartridge passes under the first limiting portion is lower than the position of the protrusion of the upstream cartridge at the time the protrusion of the upstream cartridge passes under the first limiting portion. When the tray with the non-genuine cartridge installed moves from the pull-out position to the installation position, the movement of the tray is restricted by the non-genuine cartridge coming into contact with the first or second limiting portion. This is an image forming apparatus characterized by the following features. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a technique for accurately mounting a cartridge into a tray that can be housed in the main body of an image forming apparatus. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Diagram illustrating the overall configuration of the printer in Example 1. [Figure 2] Diagram showing the printer in the open position of the door in Example 1. [Figure 3] This diagram shows the printer in the state where the fuser unit of Example 1 has been moved. [Figure 4] Diagram showing the transfer unit and tray unit of Example 1 when they are pulled out. [Figure 5] Diagram of the printer with the transfer unit of Example 1 extended independently. [Figure 6] Diagram illustrating the movement of the transfer unit and tray unit in Example 1. [Figure 7] Diagram illustrating the movement of the transfer unit and tray unit in Example 1. [Figure 8] Diagram illustrating the connecting member between the tray unit and the transfer unit in Example 1. [Figure 9] Diagram illustrating the connecting member between the tray unit and the transfer unit in Example 1. [Figure 10] Diagram illustrating the connecting member between the tray unit and the transfer unit in Example 1. [Figure 11] Diagram illustrating the details of the main guide in Example 1. [Figure 12] A diagram illustrating the path that the transfer unit of Example 1 moves independently. [Figure 13]Figure for explaining the path along which the transfer unit of Example 1 moves alone [Figure 14] Figure for explaining the combined movement of the tray and the transfer unit of Example 1 [Figure 15] Figure for explaining the correspondence between the cartridge and the holding part of Example 1 [Figure 16] Figure showing the mounting process of the tray unit of Example 1 [Figure 17] Figure showing the mounting process of the tray unit of Example 1 [Figure 18] Figure showing the locus in the mounting process of the locking surface of the cartridge of Example 1 [Figure 19] Figure showing the locus in the mounting process of the locking surface of the cartridge of Example 1 [Figure 20] Figure for explaining the details of the main body locking part of Example 1 [Figure 21] Explanatory drawing of the tray unit of the modification [Figure 22] Figure for explaining the correspondence between the cartridge and the holding part of Example 2 [Figure 23] Figure for explaining the center of gravity of the tray unit and the transfer unit

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, the best mode for carrying out this invention will be illustratively and specifically described based on examples. However, the dimensions, materials, shapes, relative arrangements, etc. of the components described in this embodiment of the invention should be appropriately changed according to the configuration of the device to which the invention is applied and various conditions. That is, the scope of this invention is not intended to be limited to the following embodiments.

[0011] [Example 1] [Overall Configuration] The printer 1 as an image forming apparatus will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the overall configuration of the printer 1 according to this embodiment. In this embodiment, the printer 1 is an electrophotographic color laser beam printer that forms an image on a sheet S as a recording material.

[0012] The printer 1 includes a main unit (housing) 1A, a scanner (exposure device) 2, a control unit 3, and a door (opening / closing member) 20 that can be opened and closed relative to the main unit 1A. Furthermore, the printer 1 includes a sheet feeding unit 30, a transfer unit (transfer device) 40, a tray unit (moving unit, support unit) 50, and a fixing device 80. The part including the main unit 1A and the door 20 can also be called the main frame 100. The main frame 100 includes the exterior of the printer 1.

[0013] The main unit 1A houses the scanner 2, control unit 3, sheet feeding unit 30, transfer unit 40, tray unit 50, and fixing device 80.

[0014] The sheet feeding unit 30 has a loading tray 31 for loading sheets S as recording material and a supply roller 32. The loading tray 31 can be pulled out in the direction of the door 20 to replenish the sheets S.

[0015] The tray unit 50 includes a tray (support member, drawer) 51 and cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK. The tray 51 has a tray handle 52. The cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK are removablely mounted on the tray 51.

[0016] Each of the cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK is independently removable from the tray 51. Each cartridge contains yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) toner (developer), respectively. The cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK have the same configuration except for the color of the toner they contain. Therefore, the configuration and operation of one of the cartridges PY, PM, PC, or PK may be described, while the others are omitted. Also, when there is no need to distinguish between cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK, they may simply be referred to as cartridge P. The tray unit 50 can be said to have multiple cartridges P and a tray 51 into which the multiple cartridges P are removablely mounted.

[0017] In this embodiment, the tray unit 50 has a plurality of photosensitive drums (image carriers) 61, a plurality of charging rollers 62 (charging members), and a plurality of developing rollers (developer carriers) 71. Specifically, the tray unit 50 has four photosensitive drums 61, four charging rollers 62, and four developing rollers 71. The rotation axis direction extending in the longitudinal direction of the photosensitive drum 61, the rotation axis direction of the developing roller 71, and the rotation axis direction of the charging roller 62 are parallel.

[0018] The part that forms the black (K) image is called the black station (first station), the photosensitive drum 61 of the first station is called the first photosensitive drum, the developing roller 71 is called the first developing roller, and the charging roller 62 is called the first charging roller.

[0019] The part that forms the cyan (C) image is called the cyan station (second station), the photosensitive drum 61 of the second station is called the second photosensitive drum, the developing roller 71 is called the second developing roller, and the charging roller 62 is called the second charging roller.

[0020] The part that forms the magenta (M) image is called the magenta station (third station), and the photosensitive drum 61 of the third station is called the third photosensitive drum, and the developing roller 71 is called the third developing roller. Roller, specifically the charged roller 62, is called the third charged roller.

[0021] The part that forms the yellow (Y) image is called the yellow station (fourth station), the photosensitive drum 61 of the fourth station is called the fourth photosensitive drum, the developing roller 71 is called the fourth developing roller, and the charging roller 62 is called the fourth charging roller.

[0022] Cartridge PK is installed in the black station, cartridge PC in the cyan station, cartridge PM in the magenta station, and cartridge PY in the yellow station. In this embodiment, cartridge PK is referred to as the first cartridge, cartridge PC as the second cartridge, cartridge PM as the third cartridge, and cartridge PY as the fourth cartridge.

[0023] The numbers 1, 2, 3, and 4 are used for explanatory purposes only.

[0024] The photosensitive drum 61, the charging roller 62, and the developing roller 71 may be provided in either the cartridge P or the tray 51. In this embodiment, the cartridge P has the photosensitive drum 61, the charging roller 62, and the developing roller 71.

[0025] The transfer unit 40 includes a belt 41, a primary transfer roller 42, a cleaning unit 43, a drive roller 46 for driving the belt 41, and a tension roller (driven roller) 47. In this embodiment, the printer 1 is equipped with an optical sensor 44 for detecting the toner image transferred to the belt 41. In this embodiment, the belt 41 is positioned below the photosensitive drum 61 and is able to contact the photosensitive drum 61 so that a primary transfer section is formed between the belt 41 and the photosensitive drum 61. The printer 1 also has a secondary transfer roller 45 that contacts the belt 41 so that a secondary transfer section is formed. The secondary transfer section is formed between the belt 41 and the secondary transfer roller 45. The rotational axis directions of the primary transfer roller 42, the drive roller 46, the tension roller 47, and the secondary transfer roller 45 are parallel. A pair of registration rollers 4 is positioned in front of the secondary transfer section.

[0026] The fixing device 80 includes a fixing unit 81 and a flapper 5. When an image forming operation is performed on the sheet S, the fixing device 80 is in the use position. The fixing device 80 is housed inside the main body 1A when in the use position. The fixing device 80 is also configured to heat the sheet S when in the use position. In this embodiment, the fixing unit 81 includes a heating unit (heating roller) including a heater and a pressurizing unit (pressurizing roller).

[0027] The movement of the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 will be explained using Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. Figure 2 shows the printer 1 with the door 20 open. Figure 3 shows the printer 1 with the fuser unit 80 moved. Figure 4 shows the printer 1 with the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 extended. Figure 5 shows the printer 1 with the transfer unit 40 extended independently.

[0028] The transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 are movable from the inside to the outside of the device body 1A. In the horizontal direction H, the device body 1A has a first end 1b1 with an opening 1A1 and a second end 1b2 opposite to the first end 1b1. The tray unit 50 is movable through the opening 1A1 to a first inner position inside the device body 1A and to a first outer position outside the device body 1A. The transfer unit 40 is movable through the opening 1A1 to a second inner position inside the device body 1A and to a second outer position outside the device body 1A. The opening 1A1 may include an opening through which the tray unit 50 passes and an opening through which the transfer unit 40 passes. Note that when the transfer unit 40 moves from the second inner position to the second outer position, at least As the belt 41 moves, at least a portion of the belt 41 protrudes from the device body 1A toward the outside of the device body 1A.

[0029] The direction in which the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position to the first outer position is called the tray removal direction Dd1, and the direction opposite to the tray removal direction Dd1 is called the tray mounting direction Da1. The tray removal direction Dd1 can be said to be the direction from the second end 1b2 to the first end 1b1. The tray removal direction Dd1 is also called the first removal direction Dd1. The tray mounting direction Da1 is also called the first mounting direction Da1. When the tray unit 50 moves in the first mounting direction Da1 and reaches the innermost mounting position, it is in the mounted state.

[0030] The direction in which the transfer unit 40 moves from the second inner position to the second outer position is called the transfer removal direction Dd2, and the direction opposite to the transfer removal direction Dd2 is called the transfer mounting direction Da2. In the transfer removal direction Dd2, the drive roller 46 is located downstream of the tension roller 47. The transfer removal direction Dd2 can be described as the direction from the second end 1b2 to the first end 1b1. The transfer removal direction Dd2 is also called the second removal direction Dd2. The transfer mounting direction Da2 is also called the second mounting direction Da2.

[0031] The tray removal direction Dd1 and the tray mounting direction Da1 are directions that intersect (preferably orthogonal to) the rotation axis direction of the photosensitive drum 61. The transfer removal direction Dd2 and the transfer mounting direction Da2 are directions that intersect (preferably orthogonal to) the rotation axis direction of the drive roller 46. The rotation axis direction of the drive roller 46 is parallel to the rotation axis direction of the photosensitive drum 61. The tray removal direction is the pulling direction, and the tray mounting direction is the mounting direction. In the tray, multiple cartridges P are arranged and held in the mounting direction.

[0032] In the horizontal direction H, a fixing device 80 is positioned on one end of the device body 1A (the side on which the first end portion 1b1 is located).

[0033] The door 20 attached to the device body 1A is movable between a closed position and an open position. As shown in Figure 1, when the door 20 is in the closed position (closed state), the door 20 covers the opening 1A1. As shown in Figure 2, when the door 20 is in the open position (open state), the opening 1A1 is exposed.

[0034] As shown in Figure 1, when the door 20 is in the closed position, the door 20 covers the fixing device 80 attached to the main body 1A of the device. More specifically, when the door 20 is in the closed position, the upper cover portion 20b of the door 20 is located above the fixing device 80. The upper cover portion 20b of the door 20 functions as part of the exterior.

[0035] The door 20 can move between an open position and a closed position while the fixing device 80 is supported by the device body 1A. In other words, the door 20 moves from the closed position to the open position so as to move away from the fixing device 80 supported by the device body 1A. Therefore, as shown in Figure 2, when the door 20 is in the open position, the door 20 is away from the fixing device 80 supported by the device body 1A.

[0036] As will be described later, the fixing device 80 is movable from the state in Figure 2 to the state in Figure 3 so that the opening 1A1 is widely exposed. With the door 20 and fixing device 80 moved (Figure 3), the transfer unit 40 and tray unit 50 can move from the inside to the outside of the device body 1A through the opening 1A1, and after the movement, it will be in the state in Figure 4. In this case, the downstream cartridge, as the cartridge on the downstream side in the mounting direction, is cartridge PK, and the upstream cartridge, as the cartridge on the upstream side, is cartridge PY.

[0037] With the tray unit 50 moved outside the main body 1A of the device (Figure 4), it is permissible to remove cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK from the tray 51 and to install cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK onto the tray 51. This allows cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK to be replaced with new cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK. In this embodiment, cartridge P is detachable from the tray 51 in a direction intersecting (preferably perpendicular to) the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 61.

[0038] Cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK are removed from tray 51 by moving away from the transfer unit 40 relative to the tray 51. In other words, cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK are removed from tray 51 by moving away from the transfer unit 40 relative to the tray 51. In this embodiment, the transfer unit 40 is located below the tray unit 50. Therefore, cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK are removed from tray 51 by moving upward relative to the tray 51.

[0039] Furthermore, the transfer unit 40 can be removed from the main body 1A of the device independently of the tray unit 50, and can be replaced with a new transfer unit 40.

[0040] [Image Formation Process] The image formation operation of printer 1 will be explained using Figure 1. The control unit 3 of printer 1 starts the image formation operation on the sheet S based on the image signal received from the external host device 400. The external host device 400 is, for example, a personal computer, an image reader, and a facsimile machine.

[0041] When an image is formed on the sheet S, the fixing device 80 is in the use position, the tray unit 50 is in the first inner position, the transfer unit 40 is in the second inner position, and the door 20 is in the closed position. With the transfer unit 40 in the second inner position, the belt 41 can contact the photosensitive drum 61. At this time, the tray unit 50 is positioned above the transfer unit 40.

[0042] A charging voltage is applied to the charging roller 62, causing the photosensitive drum 61 to rotate. A laser corresponding to the image information is shone from the scanner 2 onto the photosensitive drum 61, exposing the surface of the photosensitive drum 61 that has been charged by the charging roller 62. As a result, an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image information is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 61.

[0043] The developing roller 71 carries toner. A developing voltage is applied to the developing roller 71, and the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 61 is developed by the toner supplied from the developing roller 71, forming a toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 61. In this embodiment, the developing roller 71 develops the electrostatic latent image while in contact with the photosensitive drum 61, but the developing roller 71 may develop the electrostatic latent image with a gap between the developing roller 71 and the photosensitive drum 61.

[0044] When a full-color image is formed, toner images of each color are formed on each photosensitive drum 61.

[0045] In this embodiment, with the tray unit 50 in the first inner position, the developing roller 71 is movable between a contact position in contact with the photosensitive drum 61 and a separated position away from the photosensitive drum 61. Specifically, a switching device provided in the main body 1A switches between the developing roller 71 being in the contact position and the developing roller 71 being in the separated position. This allows the developing roller 71 to be kept away from the photosensitive drum 61 when no image forming operation is being performed.

[0046] Furthermore, printer 1 can perform monochrome printing with the developing roller 71 and photosensitive drum 61 corresponding to cartridge PK in contact, and with the developing roller 71 and photosensitive drum 61 corresponding to cartridges PY, PM, and PC separated. Also, printer 1 can perform full-color printing with the photosensitive drum 61 and belt 41 corresponding to cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK in contact.

[0047] The toner images formed on each photosensitive drum 61 are transferred onto the belt 41 by the primary transfer roller 42 in the primary transfer section and transported toward the secondary transfer section formed by the belt 41 and the secondary transfer roller 45.

[0048] Meanwhile, the main body 1A of the device has a transport path (first path, first transport path) 1c through which the sheet S heading toward the fixing device 80 passes. The door 20 also has a double-sided transport path (second path, second transport path) 20a through which the sheet S that has passed through the fixing device 80 passes. When the door 20 is closed, it covers the transport path 1c. When the door 20 is opened, the transport path 1c and the double-sided transport path 20a are exposed (Figure 2).

[0049] In the sheet feeding unit 30, one sheet S is separated and fed from the sheets S loaded on the loading tray 31 by the supply roller 32 at a predetermined timing, and is transported through the transport path 1c toward the secondary transfer unit and the fixing device 80.

[0050] In the secondary transfer section, the toner image is transferred from the belt 41 to the sheet S. Toner that is not transferred to the sheet S is removed from the belt 41 by a cleaning blade (cleaning member) 43A provided in the cleaning section 43.

[0051] The sheet S onto which the toner image has been transferred in the secondary transfer section is transported toward the fuser unit 80. In the fuser unit 80, the sheet S is heated and pressurized in the fuser section 81, and the toner image is fixed to the sheet S. The sheet S with the fixed toner image is transported toward the flapper 5, which acts as a path switching section.

[0052] The flapper 5 is movable between a paper discharge position that guides the sheet S that has passed through the fuser 80 toward the paper discharge path 1d, and a reversal position that guides it toward the reversal path 1e.

[0053] When single-sided printing is performed, in which an image is formed on one side of the sheet S, the sheet S is guided by the flapper 5 to the paper output path 1d and discharged into the output tray 1f formed on the top of the main body 1A of the device.

[0054] On the other hand, when double-sided printing is performed in which an image is printed on one side and the other side of the sheet S, the sheet S is guided to the reversal path 1e by the flapper 5. After the sheet S is guided to the reversal path 1e, the transport direction of the sheet S is reversed, and the sheet S is transported through the double-sided transport path 20a formed in the door 20 toward the secondary transfer section. In the secondary transfer section, after the toner image is transferred to the back side of the sheet S, the sheet S passes through the fuser 80, is guided to the paper discharge path 1d by the flapper 5, and is discharged into the discharge tray 1f of the main body 1A.

[0055] [Removal of tray unit and transfer unit, and placement of fixing device] Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 will be used to explain the removal of the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 from the main body 1A of the apparatus, and the arrangement of the fixing device 80.

[0056] As described above, the fuser unit 80 of the printer 1 is located at one end of the device body 1A in the horizontal direction H. The transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 move from one end of the device body 1A to the outside of the device body 1A through the opening 1A1.

[0057] In other words, with respect to the horizontal direction H, the fixing device 80 is closer to the first end 1b1 than to the second end 1b2. That is, with respect to the horizontal direction H, the distance between the fixing device 80 and the first end 1b1 is shorter than the distance between the fixing device 80 and the second end 1b2. The fixing device 80 is positioned closer to the first end 1b1 than to the center of the device body 1A in the horizontal direction H, and it can be said that the distance between the first end 1b1 and the fixing device 80 in the horizontal direction H is shorter than the distance between the first end 1b1 and the center of the device body 1A.

[0058] Furthermore, as described above, when the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position to the first outer position, the direction of movement of the tray unit 50 is in a direction that intersects the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 61. At this time, the tray unit 50 moves away from the second end 1b2.

[0059] As described above, when the transfer unit 40 moves from the second inner position to the second outer position, the direction of movement of the transfer unit 40 is in a direction that intersects the rotation axis of the drive roller 46. At this time, the transfer unit 40 moves away from the second end 1b2.

[0060] As described above, the door 20 in this embodiment covers the opening 1A1 when closed and also covers at least a portion of the sheet S transport path 1c. The door 20 also has a double-sided transport path 20a. If a sheet S jams (hereinafter referred to as a jam), the user of the printer 1 can remove the sheet S from one end of the device body 1A to clear the jam. Specifically, the door 20 can be moved to the open position to access the inside of the device body 1A and remove the sheet S. Also, if a portion of the sheet S that has passed through the fuser 80 is exposed to the outside of the device body 1A, the sheet S can be pulled from the outside of the device body 1A and removed without opening the door 20.

[0061] Furthermore, the user of printer 1 can move the transfer unit 40 and tray unit 50 from one end of the main unit 1A to the outside of the main unit 1A to perform tasks such as checking the condition of the transfer unit 40 and cartridge P, maintenance, and replacement.

[0062] In other words, the printer 1 has a fuser 80 located at one end of the main body 1A, while the transfer unit 40 and tray unit 50 can be moved in and out of the main body 1A through that end. As a result, the user can clear jams, access the fuser 80, and operate the transfer unit 40 and tray unit 50 from one direction.

[0063] In this embodiment, the printer 1 has its front facing the door 20. Therefore, it is sufficient to have enough space to perform tasks such as clearing jams and operating the transfer unit 40 and tray unit 50 from the front of the printer 1. On the other hand, it is not necessary to have enough space to perform these tasks from the left, right, back, or top of the printer 1. Therefore, the printer 1 can be installed in a space-saving manner.

[0064] If the transfer unit 40 or tray unit 50 is pulled out from the other end of the device body 1A, the user needs to access both ends of the device body 1A to clear the jam and pull out the transfer unit 40 or tray unit 50. Similarly, if one of the transfer unit 40 or tray unit 50 is pulled out from one end of the device body 1A and the other is pulled out from the other end, the user also needs to access both ends of the device body 1A. As a result, space is required to work from both the front and the back of the device body 1A, increasing the area required to install the printer 1.

[0065] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the sheet S can be replenished from one end of the device body 1A. Therefore, as long as there is space to replenish the sheets S from the front of the printer 1, the printer 1 can be installed in a space-saving manner.

[0066] [Relationship between tray unit and fuser] The relationship between the tray unit 50 and the fixing device 80 will be explained using Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 7. Figures 6 and 7 illustrate the movement of the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50.

[0067] The tray unit 50 passes through a predetermined space when moving from a first inner position where an image forming operation is performed on the sheet S to a first outer position where cartridge P can be replaced. The space through which the tray unit 50 passes when moving from the first inner position to the first outer position is called the first space (the space through which the tray unit 50 moves). The first space can also be called the path or trajectory (first movement path, first movement trajectory) through which the tray unit 50 passes when moving from the first inner position to the first outer position.

[0068] As the transfer unit 40 moves from the second inner position where the image forming operation on the sheet S is performed to the second outer position, it passes through a predetermined space. The space through which the transfer unit 40 moves from the second inner position to the second outer position is called the second space (the movement space of the transfer unit 40). The second space can also be called the path or trajectory (second movement path, second movement trajectory) through which the transfer unit 40 moves from the second inner position to the second outer position.

[0069] The position (usage position) of the fixing device 80 when the image forming operation is performed on the sheet S, and the first space and the second space have the following relationship.

[0070] In other words, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, at least a portion of the fixing device 80 in the operating position overlaps with the first space. To put it another way, when the fixing device 80 is in the operating position, at least a portion of the fixing device 80 is inside the first space.

[0071] In this embodiment, at least a portion of the fixing device 80 overlaps with the space through which the cartridge P passes when the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position to the first outer position, but it may also be arranged to overlap with the space through which the tray 51 passes.

[0072] This allows the main body of the device 1A to be made smaller compared to a configuration in which the fixing device 80 at the point of use is located outside the first space.

[0073] As shown in Figure 6, in this embodiment, when the door 20 is closed, at least a portion of the double-sided transport path 20a overlaps with the first space. That is, when the door 20 is closed, at least a portion of the double-sided transport path 20a is inside the first space.

[0074] As described above, at least a portion of the fixing device 80 in the use position is inside the first space. Therefore, when the fixing device 80 is in the use position, the tray unit 50 is restricted from moving from the first inner position to the first outer position. On the other hand, the fixing device 80 is configured to be retractable from the use position. When the fixing device 80 is retracted from the use position, the tray unit 50 is permitted to move from the first inner position to the first outer position. When the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position to the first outer position, the tray unit 50 passes below the fixing device 80. Note that the fixing device 80 is outside the second space in both the use position and the retracted position. Therefore, in both the use position and the retracted position, the transfer unit 40 can move from the second inner position to the second outer position. At this time, the transfer unit 40 passes below the fixing device 80.

[0075] The fixing device 80 has a fixing frame 80a that supports the fixing section 81. When the fixing device 80 is moved away from the operating position, the fixing frame 80a is displaced relative to the device body 1A while supporting the fixing section 81.

[0076] When pulling the tray unit 50 out of the main body 1A of the device, first, the door 20 is moved to the open position as shown in Figure 2. In this embodiment, with the fixing device 80 in the use position, the door 20 can be moved to the open position and the closed position. Then, with the door 20 in the open position, and with the door 20 in the open position, the fixing device 80 is moved from the use position to the retracted position so as to move it out of the first space as shown in Figure 3.

[0077] In the printer 1 of this embodiment, the fuser unit 80 is attached to the main unit 1A and is movable between a working position and a retracted position, which is a position moved away from the working position. In this embodiment, when the fuser unit 80 is in the retracted position, the entire fuser unit 80 is located outside the first space.

[0078] The fuser unit 80 is lifted from its operating position and positioned in a retracted position above the operating position. In other words, the retracted position is higher than the operating position. As shown in Figure 7, when the fuser unit 80 is in the retracted position, at least a portion of the fuser unit 80 protrudes from the device body 1A toward the outside. Furthermore, when the fuser unit 80 is in the retracted position, at least a portion of the fuser unit 80 is higher than the position of the upper cover portion 20b of the door 20 in the closed position. This allows the size of the printer 1 to be kept small in the vertical direction V when the fuser unit 80 is in the operating position, while the movement of the fuser unit 80 to the retracted position secures space for the tray unit 50 to move. Note that when the fuser unit 80 is in the retracted position, the door 20 is restricted from taking the closed position.

[0079] Specifically, the printer 1 has a connecting member (fuser connecting member, fuser link, arm) 85 that is movably connected to the main body 1A of the device. The fuser device 80 is connected to the main body 1A of the device via the connecting member 85.

[0080] The connecting member 85 is rotatable about a rotation center 85A, and when the tray unit 50 is pulled out to the outside of the device body 1A, the connecting member 85 is moved to the outside of the first space. A fixing device 80 is rotatably connected to one end of the connecting member 85, and the other end of the connecting member 85 is rotatably connected to the device body 1A about a rotation center 85A. The fixing device 80 is movable from the use position to the retracted position and from the retracted position to the use position while supported by the connecting member 85 (connected to the device body 1A via the connecting member 85). The connecting member 85 is configured to be movable (oscillating) relative to the device body 1A and the fixing device 80. In other words, the fixing device 80 is connected to the device body 1A via the connecting member 85. As a result, the amount of movement of the fixing device 80 when it moves between the retracted position and the use position can be increased compared to a configuration in which the fixing device 80 is directly connected to the device body 1A.

[0081] As shown in Figure 7, when the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position to the first outer position, the angle between the direction of movement of the tray unit 50 and the horizontal direction H is smaller than the angle between the direction of movement of the tray unit 50 and the vertical direction V. Furthermore, when the fixing device 80 moves from the use position to the retracted position, the amount of movement of the fixing device 80 in the vertical direction V is larger than the amount of movement of the fixing device 80 in the horizontal direction H. In other words, when the fixing device 80 moves from the use position to the retracted position, the amount of movement of the fixing device 80 in the direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of the tray unit 50 is larger than the amount of movement of the fixing device 80 in the direction parallel to the direction of movement of the tray unit 50. It's also large.

[0082] Furthermore, the fixing device 80 may be attached to the device body 1A via a guide fixed to the device body 1A, and move between the operating position and the retracted position. In this case, the shape of the guide is arbitrary.

[0083] However, the method for moving the fixing device 80 outside the first space is not limited to this. For example, the fixing device 80 may be detachable from the main body 1A so as to be moved out of its operating position, thereby moving the fixing device 80 outside the first space. In other words, the fixing device 80 may be positioned outside the first space by separating it from the main body 1A and the door 20 (separating it from the main frame 100). Alternatively, the fixing device 80 may be connected to the door 20, and the fixing device 80 may be moved outside the first space by opening the door 20.

[0084] [Relationship between tray unit and transfer unit] The relationship between the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 will be explained using Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7.

[0085] As shown in Figure 3, with the fixing device 80 positioned outside the first space, the user grasps the tray handle 52 and moves the tray unit 50 toward the outside of the device body 1A.

[0086] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the position of the transfer unit 40 when the image forming operation is performed on the sheet S has the following relationship with the first space.

[0087] In other words, when the image forming operation is performed on the sheet S, the transfer unit 40 is in the second inner position. As shown in Figures 6 and 7, at least a portion of the transfer unit 40 in the second inner position overlaps with the first space. In other words, when the transfer unit 40 is in the second inner position, at least a portion of the transfer unit 40 is inside the first space.

[0088] In this embodiment, at least a portion of the transfer unit 40 overlaps with the space through which the tray 51 passes when the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position to the first outer position, but it may also be arranged to overlap with the space through which the cartridge P passes.

[0089] This allows the main body of the apparatus 1A to be made smaller compared to a configuration in which the transfer unit 40 located in the second inner position is located outside the first space.

[0090] In this embodiment, the printer 1 is such that the part of the transfer unit 40 that overlaps the first space is the cleaning section 43 that houses the cleaning member 43A. However, other parts of the transfer unit 40 may overlap the first space. Also, in this embodiment, the cleaning member 43A of the transfer unit 40 located in the second inner position overlaps the first space.

[0091] The tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 can be said to satisfy the following relationship: When the tray unit 50 is in the first inner position and the transfer unit 40 is in the second inner position, a part of the transfer unit 40 (cleaning part 43) is downstream of the tray unit 50 in the direction of movement when the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position to the first outer position. Also, in the vertical direction V, the area (range) where the part of the transfer unit 40 (cleaning part 43) downstream of the tray unit 50 is located at least partially overlaps with the area (range) where the tray unit 50 is located.

[0092] In this embodiment, when the door 20 is in the closed position, the double-sided transport path 20a is smaller. At least a portion of it overlaps with the second space through which the transfer unit 40 passes when it moves from the second inner position to the second outer position. That is, when the door 20 is in the closed position, at least a portion of the double-sided transport path 20a is inside the second space.

[0093] As described above, when the transfer unit 40 is in the second inner position, at least a portion of the transfer unit 40 is inside the first space. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the user moves the tray unit 50 from the first inner position to the first outer position relative to the device body 1A, the transfer unit 40 also moves from the second inner position to the second outer position relative to the device body 1A. In other words, with the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 integrated, the tray unit moves from the first inner position to the first outer position, and the transfer unit 40 moves from the second inner position to the second outer position.

[0094] By moving the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 together, exposure of the photosensitive drum 61 is suppressed when the tray unit 50 moves to the first outer position, thereby preventing scratches and dirt from getting on the photosensitive drum 61.

[0095] As shown in Figure 7, when the door 20 is open, the tray unit 50 is in the first outer position, and the transfer unit 40 is in the second outer position, the transfer unit 40 supports the tray unit 50 from below. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the door 20 supports the transfer unit 40. In other words, the transfer unit 40, supported by the door 20, supports the tray unit 50. This state can also be described as the door 20 supporting the tray unit 50 via the transfer unit 40.

[0096] The configuration for moving the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 as a single unit will be explained using Figures 8, 9, and 10. Figures 8, 9, and 10 illustrate the connecting member (lever, stopper, locking member) 53 that connects the tray 51 of the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40.

[0097] The printer 1 according to this embodiment has a locking member 53. In this embodiment, the locking member 53 is provided on the tray 51 of the tray unit 50. The locking member 53 has a transfer locking portion 53A and is rotatable around a rotation center 53B.

[0098] The tray 51 is equipped with a transfer coupling section 51A. The transfer unit 40 is equipped with a transfer frame 48 that supports a drive roller 46, a tension roller 47, and a primary transfer roller 42, and the transfer frame 48 is provided with a tray coupling groove 48A and a lock coupling section 48B.

[0099] The locking member 53 can move between a connected position where the transfer locking portion 53A engages with the locking connecting portion 48B and the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 are connected, and a released position where it is retracted from the connected position, by rotating around the rotation center 53B.

[0100] When the transfer connecting portion 51A engages with the tray connecting groove 48A, the tray unit 50 is restricted from moving in the first removal direction Dd1 and in a direction perpendicular to the first removal direction Dd1 relative to the transfer unit 40. On the other hand, the transfer unit 40 is restricted from moving in the second mounting direction Da2 and in a direction perpendicular to the second mounting direction Da2 relative to the tray unit 50.

[0101] Similar configurations are provided in a total of four locations: near both ends of the tension roller 47 in the direction of its rotation axis, and near both ends of the drive roller 46 in the direction of its rotation axis.

[0102] When the transfer lock portion 53A of the locking member 53 at the connection position engages with the locking connection portion 48B, the tray unit 50 is restricted from moving in the first mounting direction Da1 relative to the transfer unit 40. On the other hand, the transfer unit 40 is restricted from moving in the second removal direction Dd2 relative to the tray unit 50.

[0103] The locking member 53 and the locking connecting portion 48B may also be provided at both ends of the transfer unit 40 in the direction of the rotation axis of the tension roller 47.

[0104] In other words, when the transfer connecting portion 51A engages with the tray connecting groove 48A, and the locking member 53 at the connecting position engages with the locking connecting portion 48B, the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 are restricted from moving relative to each other. In this state, there may be some play between the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50.

[0105] In other words, the transfer coupling portion 51A and the locking member 53 function as a tray-side coupling device, and the tray coupling groove 48A and the locking coupling portion 48B function as a transfer-side coupling device. By connecting the tray-side coupling device and the transfer-side coupling device, the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 are connected, and the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 move as a single unit.

[0106] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 10, the main body of the device 1A has a lock release part 1B. When the tray unit 50 is in the first inner position and the transfer unit 40 is in the second inner position, the lock member 53 is in contact with the lock release part 1B and is in the released position. In this state, the transfer lock part 53A is separated from the lock connecting part 48B.

[0107] With the locking member 53 in the released position, when the tray unit 50 is moved in the first removal direction Dd1, the transfer unit 40 is pushed toward the second removal direction Dd2 by the transfer coupling part 51A. As a result, the transfer unit 40 is also moved toward the second removal direction Dd2 integrally with the tray unit 50. When the tray unit 50 has moved a predetermined distance in the first removal direction Dd1, the locking member 53 separates from the unlocking part 1B, moves to the coupling position, and engages with the lock coupling part 48B. With the locking member 53 in the coupling position and engaged with the lock coupling part 48B, the tray unit 50 is moved to the first outer position and the transfer unit 40 is moved to the second outer position.

[0108] When the tray unit 50 is moved in the first mounting direction Da1 with the locking member 53 engaged with the locking connecting portion 48B, the transfer unit 40 is pushed toward the second mounting direction Da2 by the locking member 53. As a result, the transfer unit 40 is also moved toward the second mounting direction Da2 together with the tray unit 50.

[0109] When the transfer unit 40 is moved in the second mounting direction Da2 with the locking member 53 engaged with the locking connecting portion 48B, the transfer unit 40 pushes the transfer connecting portion 51A, and the tray unit 50 is pushed toward the first mounting direction Da1. As a result, the tray unit 50 is also moved toward the first mounting direction Da1 together with the transfer unit 40.

[0110] When the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 are moved together toward the inside of the device body 1A, the locking member 53 is moved to the release position by the lock release unit 1B. In this state, even if the tray unit 50 is moved in the first mounting direction Da1, the transfer unit 40 does not move. Therefore, in the process of closing the door 20, the force of the secondary transfer roller 45 contacting the transfer unit 40 pushes the transfer unit 40 toward the second mounting direction Da2, pushing it to the back of the device body 1A (second inner position). In other words, the door 20 can push the transfer unit 40 so that it is positioned in the second inner position. The door 20 may push the tray unit 50 so that the tray unit 50 is positioned in the first inner position.

[0111] On the other hand, when the locking member 53 is in the released position and the tray unit 50 is in the first inner position, moving the transfer unit 40 in the second removal direction Dd2 allows the transfer unit 40 to move independently from the tray unit 50 from the second inner position to the second outer position. In the printer 1 of this embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, with the tray unit 50 positioned inside the device body 1A (first inner position), the transfer unit 40 can be moved outside the device body 1A (second outer position). The transfer unit 40 is removable from the device body 1A and can be replaced with a new transfer unit 40.

[0112] In this embodiment, when the tray unit 50 is in the first inner position, the tray unit 50 is positioned independently of the transfer unit 40 relative to the device body 1A. Similarly, when the transfer unit 40 is in the second inner position, the transfer unit 40 is positioned independently of the tray unit 50 relative to the device body 1A. This is because priority is given to accurately positioning both the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 relative to the device body 1A. Therefore, when the tray unit 50 is in the first inner position and the transfer unit 40 is in the second inner position, a small clearance is provided between the tray connecting groove 48A and the transfer connecting portion 51A.

[0113] With the tray unit 50 in the first inner position and the transfer unit 40 in the second inner position, the clearance between the tray connecting groove 48A and the transfer connecting portion 51A may be eliminated so that the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 can be positioned relative to each other. In this case, the transfer unit 40 and the tray unit 50 can be positioned relative to each other with high precision.

[0114] [Movement of tray unit and transfer unit] As shown in Figures 1, 6, and 7, the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 are tilted with respect to the horizontal direction H when mounted on the main body 1A of the device. On the other hand, when pulled out from the main body 1A of the device, they are supported in a nearly horizontal position. However, the tray in the pulled-out position does not necessarily have to be nearly horizontal; it is sufficient that, when mounted, the downstream side is tilted downward compared to when pulled out.

[0115] More specifically, when the tray unit 50 is in the first inner position, the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 61 closer to the first end 1b1 is located higher in the vertical direction V than the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 61 further from the first end 1b1.

[0116] In other words, with the tray unit 50 in the first inner position, the second photosensitive drum is closer to the first end 1b1 than the first photosensitive drum, and the rotation axis of the second photosensitive drum is located vertically V above the rotation axis of the first photosensitive drum. Similarly, the third photosensitive drum is closer to the first end 1b1 than the second photosensitive drum, and the rotation axis of the third photosensitive drum is located vertically V above the rotation axis of the second photosensitive drum. The fourth photosensitive drum is closer to the first end 1b1 than the third photosensitive drum, and the rotation axis of the fourth photosensitive drum is located vertically V above the rotation axis of the third photosensitive drum.

[0117] Here, the straight line connecting the centers of each photosensitive drum 61 is called the straight line LD. In this embodiment, when the tray unit 50 is in the first inner position, the straight line LD is inclined upward with respect to the horizontal direction H, from the side farther from the first end 1b1 toward the side closer to the first end 1b1.

[0118] Furthermore, the contact surface of the belt 41 that contacts the first photosensitive drum, the second photosensitive drum, the third photosensitive drum, and the fourth photosensitive drum is directed from the side furthest from the first end 1b1 towards the side closer to the first end 1b1. It tilts upwards.

[0119] When the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position to the first outer position, the tray unit 50 moves in a direction inclined with respect to the horizontal direction H (in this embodiment, in a direction inclined upward with respect to the horizontal direction H). In other words, when the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position to the first outer position, the tray unit 50 moves diagonally upward.

[0120] When the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position to the first outer position, the direction of movement of the tray unit 50 changes from diagonally upward to downward. The direction of movement of the tray unit 50 may include a direction parallel to the horizontal direction H, or a direction diagonally downward with respect to the horizontal direction H.

[0121] The angle between the straight line LD and the horizontal direction H is smaller when the tray unit 50 is in the first outer position than when the tray unit 50 is in the first inner position. In this embodiment, when the tray unit 50 is in the first outer position, the straight line LD and the horizontal direction H are parallel, but the straight line LD may be inclined downward or upward with respect to the horizontal direction H.

[0122] Similarly, when the transfer unit 40 moves from the second inner position to the second outer position, the direction of movement of the transfer unit 40 changes from diagonally upward to downward. The direction of movement of the transfer unit 40 may include a direction parallel to the horizontal direction H, or a diagonally downward direction relative to the horizontal direction H.

[0123] The angle between the contact surface of the belt 41 and the horizontal direction H is smaller when the transfer unit 40 is in the second outer position than when the transfer unit 40 is in the second inner position. In this embodiment, when the transfer unit 40 is in the second outer position, the contact surface of the belt 41 is parallel to the horizontal direction H, but the contact surface of the belt 41 may be inclined downward or upward with respect to the horizontal direction H.

[0124] When moving the tray unit 50 from the first outer position to the first inner position, the tray unit 50 moves horizontally in the H direction, and then moves diagonally downward from a certain point. When moving the transfer unit 40 from the second outer position to the second inner position, the transfer unit 40 moves horizontally in the H direction, and then moves diagonally downward from a certain point. With this configuration, when inserting the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 into the device body 1A, the weight of the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 can be utilized.

[0125] [Transfer unit movement path] A main guide 90 is attached to the main frame 100 shown in Figure 4, which serves as a guide section. Details of the main guide 90 are shown in Figure 11. There is a wall 91 in the center of the main guide 90, with the lower part of the wall 91 designated as the lower guide area 92 and the upper part as the upper guide area 93. A notch 91A, a slope 92A, and an upper guide area 93A are provided on the left side of the wall 91, and a notch 91B and an upper guide area 93C are provided on the right side of the wall 91.

[0126] As shown in Figure 8, the transfer unit 40 has a transfer axis 49 that extends perpendicular to the transfer extraction direction Dd2 on the side closer to the second end.

[0127] When the transfer unit 40 moves independently from the second inner position to the second outer position, the transfer shaft 49 enters the lower guide area 92, passing through the notch 91A and the slope 92A from the upper guide area 93A of the main guide 90, as shown in Figure 12. After moving until it abuts against the detent area 92B, when the transfer unit 40 is lifted, the transfer shaft 49 can be removed from the main body through the notch 91B. The second outer position of the transfer unit 40 is the position where the transfer shaft 49 is This occurs when the transfer shaft hits the target section 92B. When the transfer shaft 49 begins to move from the second inner position to the second outer position (Figure 13), it moves along the slope 92A due to its own weight. However, if it attempts to enter the upper guide area 93B due to a misoperation, the abutment section 48C of the transfer unit 40 hits the prevention wall 51B of the tray unit 50. As a result, the transfer shaft 49 is drawn into the lower guide area 92. Furthermore, the second end side of the wall 91 is provided with a lower slope section 91C to facilitate the transfer shaft 49 being drawn into the lower guide area 92. As a result, the transfer shaft 49 reliably passes through the lower guide area 92, and at this time, the transfer unit 40 can move without interfering with the photosensitive drum 61.

[0128] When the transfer unit 40 moves independently from the second outer position to the second inner position, the transfer shaft 49 moves from the detent portion 92B along the lower guide region 92, ascends the slope 92A, and reaches the upper guide region 93A. The first end side of the wall 91 is provided with a lower slope portion 91D to facilitate the transfer shaft 49 being guided into the lower guide, and an upper slope portion 91E is provided opposite the upper side of the lower slope portion 91D. The function of the upper slope portion 91E will be described later. When the transfer shaft 49 is in the detent portion 92B, the other end of the transfer unit 40 is supported by the door 20, so the center of gravity G1 of the transfer unit 40 is located between them. Therefore, although the transfer shaft 49 is in the detent section 92B due to its own weight, if the transfer shaft 49 is moved along the upper guide region 93B due to a malfunction (Figure 13), the abutment portion 48D of the transfer unit 40 will come into contact with the prevention wall 51C of the tray unit 50, making it impossible to move along the upper guide region 93B.

[0129] As described above, the transfer axis 49's movement path allows the transfer unit 40 to move smoothly between the second inner position and the second outer position without damaging the photosensitive drum 61.

[0130] [Movement path when the tray unit and transfer unit are connected] As the tray unit 50 moves from the first inner position to the first outer position while connected to the transfer unit 40, the left side of the lower surface 51D of the tray unit 50 is supported by a tray unit support (not shown). Since the transfer unit 40 is supported vertically by the tray unit 50, as shown in Figure 14, the transfer shaft 49 does not fall into the notches 91A and 91B but moves along the upper guide region 93. A rotating roller 94A that rotates relative to the main guide 90 is attached to the first end of the main guide 90, so the tray unit 50 can move smoothly while moving on the rotating roller 94A.

[0131] As shown in Figure 23(a), when the center of gravity G2 of the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 is on the second end side of the rotating roller 94A, the right side of the lower surface 51D of the tray unit 50 is supported by the rotating roller 94A, and the left side of the lower surface 51D is supported by a tray unit support (not shown) as it moves. As shown in Figure 23(b), when the center of gravity G2 is on the first end side of the rotating roller 94A, the left side of the lower surface 51D of the tray unit 50 moves away from the tray unit support (not shown), and the right side moves while being supported by the rotating roller 94A. At this time, the tilt of the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 is limited by the transfer shaft 49 contacting the wall 95 and the arc 96. When pulled out further, the lower surface of the transfer unit 40 is supported by the door 20 as shown in Figure 23(c). During the process of passing through the arc 96, the posture of the tray unit 50 transitions from an inclined state to a horizontal state, and the position of the tray unit 50 at this time is defined as the first outer position. The underside of the transfer unit 40 is supported by the door 20, which acts as a guide, both when the transfer unit 40 moves on its own and when it moves in conjunction with the tray unit 50.

[0132] As the tray unit 50 moves from the first outer position to the first inner position while connected to the transfer unit 40, the transfer shaft 49 can move without falling into the notch 91B, as described above. However, a sloped portion 91E is provided to prevent the transfer shaft 49 from getting caught on the upper part of the first end side of the wall 91. When the transfer shaft 49 comes into contact with the arc 96, the rotating roller 94A acts as a pivot point. As the transfer axis 49 receives a downward force, the tray handle 52 receives an upward force. As a result, the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 move while changing their posture in accordance with the arc 96. When the center of gravity G2 moves towards the second end side of the rotating roller 94A, the tray unit 50 is pulled into the first inner position by its own weight.

[0133] Due to the movement path of the transfer axis 49 described above, the tray unit 50 can move smoothly between the first inner position and the first outer position while remaining connected to the transfer unit 40.

[0134] In this embodiment, the movement paths of the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 are described only on one side in the direction of movement. However, the tray unit 50 and the transfer unit 40 are also provided with main guides of the symmetrical shape on opposite sides, and they follow the same movement paths.

[0135] In this embodiment, there are multiple movement paths for the transfer unit 40, depending on whether it is a single path or not. However, this is not limited to the transfer unit 40, but applies to any unit or component in an image forming apparatus that moves from the inside to the outside of the apparatus.

[0136] [Identifying cartridges on the tray] When there are multiple product specifications, it is necessary to correctly install the cartridge that matches the specifications of the imaging apparatus. Product specifications refer, for example, to the compatibility relationship between the imaging apparatus and cartridge P, and cartridge P manufactured to be compatible with the imaging apparatus being used can be said to be the appropriate cartridge according to the product specifications.

[0137] The method for identifying cartridges will be explained using Figure 15. The product specifications described above are referred to as the first specification, and Figure 15(a) shows a state in which a cartridge P of the first specification is attached to a tray unit 50 of the first specification. The tray unit 50 is provided with a holding part 54, and each of the holding parts 54 (54Y, 54M, 54C, 54K) is provided with a unique shape 55 specific to the first specification. The cartridge P of the first specification is provided with an identification shape 72 specific to the first specification. The identification shape 72 is provided on the surface of the cartridge P that is held by the holding part. The surface located on the opposite side from the surface that is held and facing outwards from the tray is called the open surface. A locking surface, which acts as a locking part, protrudes from the open surface. The unique shape 55 of the tray unit 50 protrudes in accordance with the recess of the identification shape 72, and when the product specifications of the first specification match, the attachment of the cartridge P to the tray unit 50 is not hindered, and the cartridge P can be attached to the correct position. In other words, if cartridge P is a genuine cartridge, it will be held in the correct position by the holding part. Note that the position of the cartridge locking part, which is a protruding part, is not limited to the upper part in the vertical direction of cartridge P. For example, it may be provided on the longitudinal side of cartridge P. In that case, it is preferable to provide the main body locking part, which is a limiting part on the main body side of the device, at a position opposite to the movement trajectory in which the cartridge locking part moves as the tray moves.

[0138] Similarly, Figure 15(b) shows a tray unit 150 of the second specification, which has different specifications from the first specification, with a cartridge Pb (PYb, PMb, PCb, PKb) of the second specification attached. In Figure 15(b), the identification shape 172 of the cartridge Pb and the unique shape 155 of the tray unit 150 are unique to the second specification. The identification shape 172 has a recess in a different position than the identification shape 72 of the first specification, and the unique shape 155 protrudes to match this recess. As a result, when the product specifications of the second specification match, the attachment of the cartridge Pb to the tray unit 150 is not hindered, and the cartridge Pb can be attached in the correct position.

[0139] On the other hand, the case where cartridges with different specifications are installed will be explained using Figure 15(c). Figure 15(c) shows the case where the holding part 54Y of the tray unit 50 of the first specification is fitted with a cartridge of the second specification. The diagram shows the cartridge PYb installed, with cartridges PM, PC, and PK of the first specification installed in the other holding parts 54M, 54C, and 54K. In this case, the position of the recess of the identification shape 172 of cartridge PYb does not coincide with the protruding position of the unique shape 55 of the tray unit 50, thus preventing the cartridge PYb from being installed in the tray unit 50. As a result, cartridge PYb is held in an abnormal position, raised above its normal position. In other combinations as well, if cartridges of different specifications are installed, the cartridges will be held in an abnormal position relative to the tray unit in a similar manner. That is, if cartridge P is an abnormal cartridge, cartridge P installed in the holding part will be held in an abnormal position, protruding above its normal position.

[0140] In this embodiment, an example of matching specifications is shown where the cartridge side is concave and the tray unit side is convex. However, this is not the only example; for example, the cartridge side could be convex and the tray unit concave. Also, the number of product specifications is not limited to two, and there may be many more.

[0141] [Prevents tray units from being installed with cartridges held in an incorrect position] As described above, when a cartridge with different specifications is attached to the tray unit 50, the cartridge is identified by being held in an unconventional position. A configuration to prevent the tray unit 50 in this state from moving from the first outer position to the first inner position will be described. Figure 16 shows the process of attaching the tray unit 50 to the device body 1A when a cartridge PYb of the second specification is attached to the holding part 54Y of the tray unit 50 of the first specification.

[0142] Figure 16(a) shows the tray unit 50 pulled out to the first outer position. Cartridges P and Pb each have a locking surface 73 in a common position, which in this embodiment is provided protruding from the upper part of cartridges P and Pb. The locking surface 73 (protruding part, cartridge locking part) of cartridge PYb is held in an unconventional position, so that it is held at a higher position than the locking surface 73 of cartridge P held in the normal position by the other holding parts 54M, 54C, and 54K. Note that although it is described as a locking surface 73 here, it does not necessarily have to be a surface; it is sufficient if it is a shape that protrudes from the surface of cartridge P. When the tray unit 50 is in the pulled-out position, in the mounting direction (first mounting direction Da1), the main body locking part 15 is located downstream of cartridge PK, which is the furthest downstream cartridge.

[0143] A body locking portion 15 is provided at the top of the opening 1A1 of the device body 1A, serving as a limiting portion. The body locking portion 15 should be fixed to the device body 1A so as to face the first space through which the tray unit 50 moves. The body locking portion 15 may also be attached to the member to be fixed (for example, the lower side of the discharge tray 1f in this embodiment) by any method such as screwing or welding, or it may be formed integrally with the member to be fixed. The body locking portion 15 has a two-stage shape, consisting of a first locking portion 15a (first limiting portion, first locking portion on the body side) provided on the upstream side with respect to the tray mounting direction Da1, and a second locking portion 15b (second limiting portion, second locking portion on the body side) provided on the downstream side. The first locking portion 15a and the second locking portion 15b may be formed integrally or separately. Furthermore, either the first locking portion 15a or the second locking portion 15b may be integrally formed with the fixing target member on the device body side, while the other is attached to the fixing target member. The main body locking portion 15 is provided in a position that overlaps with the movement trajectory of the locking surface 73 in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge P intersecting the tray mounting direction.

[0144] As the tray unit 50 is moved toward the first inner position, its posture changes as shown in Figure 16(b), and as it is moved further, the posture change is completed as shown in Figure 16(c).

[0145] Further movement causes the locking surface 73 of the cartridge PYb, which is held in an irregular position, to come into contact with the first locking portion 15a, as shown in Figure 16(d). This prevents the tray unit 50 from moving any further in the tray mounting direction Da1, thus preventing the installation of cartridges PYb with different specifications. On the other hand, when the tray mounting is completed, as shown in Figure 7, when the tray unit 50 is in the pull-out position, in the mounting direction (first mounting direction Da1), at least a part of the main body locking portion 15 (in this case, the first locking portion 15a) is located upstream of the locking surface 73, which is the cartridge locking portion of the cartridge PY, which is the upstreammost cartridge.

[0146] Next, using Figure 17, the operation of the process of mounting the tray unit 50 to the device body 1A when a cartridge PKb of the second specification is attached to the holding part 54K of the tray unit 50 of the first specification will be explained. Figure 17(a) shows the tray unit 50 pulled out to the first outer position. Similar to Figure 16, the locking surface 73 of the cartridge PKb held in the non-normal position is held at a higher position than the locking surface 73 of the cartridge P held in the normal position of the other holding parts 54Y, 54M, and 54C. As the tray unit 50 is moved toward the first inner position, the posture of the tray unit 50 changes as shown in Figure 17(b). As it is moved further, as shown in Figure 17(c), the locking surface 73 of the cartridge PKb passes below without contacting the first locking part 15a. Subsequently, as shown in Figure 17(d), the locking surface 73 of the cartridge PKb and the second locking part 15b come into contact. This prevents the tray unit 50 from moving any further in the tray mounting direction Da1, thus preventing the installation of cartridges PKb with different specifications.

[0147] The reason why the locking surface 73 of cartridge PKb, held in an irregular position in Figure 17, passes below the first locking portion 15a without contacting it will be explained using Figure 18. Figure 18 shows the trajectories of the locking surface 73 of cartridge PYb and the locking surface 73 of cartridge PKb during the mounting process when they are held in an irregular position relative to the tray unit 50. The trajectory 74Kb of the locking surface 73 of cartridge PKb passes below the trajectory 74Yb of the locking surface 73 of cartridge PYb when it passes below the first locking portion 15a. This is because, during the mounting process, the tray unit 50 changes its posture while its lower surface is supported by the rotating roller 94A, and the distance from the rotating roller 94A, which is the rotation center of the tray unit 50, is different for cartridges PYb and PKb. Specifically, cartridge PYb, which is positioned farther from the rotating roller 94A, will rotate significantly when the orientation of the tray unit 50 changes, and will therefore pass through the upper trajectory 74Yb.

[0148] Here, the relationship between the passage trajectory 74Kb of the locking surface 73 of cartridge PKb and the passage trajectory 74Yb of the locking surface 73 of cartridge PYb will be described in terms of the distance between the locking surface 73 of cartridge PKb and cartridge PYb and the first locking portion 15a. Cartridge PKb will be referred to as the first cartridge, and cartridge PYb, which is positioned upstream of the first cartridge in the mounting direction, will be referred to as the second cartridge. In this case, the distance between the locking surface 73 (cartridge locking portion) and the first locking portion 15a when the second cartridge (cartridge PYb) passes under the first locking portion 15a is shorter than the distance between the locking surface 73 (cartridge locking portion) and the first locking portion 15a when the first cartridge (cartridge PKb) passes under the first locking portion 15a during tray mounting. Therefore, the locking surface 73 of cartridge PKb passes under the first locking portion 15a and then comes into contact with the second locking portion 15b, while the locking surface 73 of cartridge PYb comes into contact with the first locking portion 15a.

[0149] As explained above by comparing cartridge PYb, the upstream cartridge, and cartridge PKb, the downstream cartridge, the locking surface 73 (cartridge locking portion) of cartridge P, which is held in an abnormal position, comes into contact with either the first locking portion 15a or the second locking portion 15b of the main body locking portion 15. As a result, at least one cartridge P is in an abnormal position. When held in the correct position, the movement of the tray can be restricted. Based on the above, it can be said that the position of the protrusion of the downstream cartridge when it passes below the first limiting section is lower than the position of the protrusion of the upstream cartridge when it passes below the first limiting section.

[0150] Next, Figure 19 will be used to explain the positional relationship between the cartridge P held in the correct position and the main body locking portion 15. Figure 19 shows the passage trajectories 74Y, 74M, 74C, and 74K of the locking surfaces 73 of cartridges PY, PM, PC, and PK, respectively, during the mounting process when they are held in the correct position. The second locking portion 15b of the main body locking portion 15 is positioned closer to the passage trajectories 74Y, 74M, 74C, and 74K than the first locking portion 15a, but they do not come into contact. That is, the locking surface 73 of the cartridge P held in the correct position does not come into contact with the main body locking portion 15 during the mounting process of the tray unit 50, and the tray unit 50 can be mounted up to the first inner position. In this way, the cartridge P held in the correct position can pass under the main body locking portion 15, including the first locking portion 15a and the second locking portion 15b, in the vertical direction.

[0151] Figure 3 shows the tray unit 50 with cartridge P held in the correct position, mounted up to the first inner position. At this time, the locking surface 73 of cartridge PY is located upstream of the second locking portion 15b with respect to the tray mounting direction Da1. In this case, the second locking portion 15b, which is located downstream of the tray mounting direction Da1, is not positioned to prevent cartridge PYb from being mounted in an incorrect position relative to the uppermost holding portion 54Y during the mounting process. By providing the first locking portion 15a upstream of the second locking portion 15b, it is possible to prevent cartridge PYb from being mounted in an incorrect position relative to the uppermost holding portion 54Y during the mounting process.

[0152] Figure 20 shows the detailed shape of the main locking portion 15. The passage trajectories 74Y, 74M, 74C, 74K, 74Yb, and 74Kb shown in Figures 18 and 19 are also shown in Figure 20. A guide surface 15c is provided on the back side of the first locking portion 15a in the tray mounting direction Da1. The guide surface 15c is inclined in a direction that approaches the passage trajectories 74Y, 74M, 74C, and 74K of the locking surface 73 of the cartridge P in the correct position as it moves toward the tray removal direction Dd1. As a result, even if a cartridge that has passed through the passage trajectory 74Kb and is locked by the second locking portion 15b moves upward and comes into contact with the main locking portion 15 when returning to the tray removal direction Dd1, it can be guided downward by the guide surface 15c. In other words, it is possible to prevent snagging when removing the tray unit 50.

[0153] In this embodiment, the first locking portion 15a and the second locking portion 15b are made as a single integrated part, but they may be separate parts. Also, the relative positions of the first locking portion 15a and the second locking portion 15b in the direction of the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 61 do not matter.

[0154] (modified version) As described above, the photosensitive drum 61, the charging roller 62, and the developing roller 71 can be provided in either the cartridge P or the tray 51. This will be explained using Figure 21. Figures 21(a) to 21(d) show a modified tray unit 50.

[0155] For example, as shown in Figure 21(a), the tray 51 may have a photosensitive drum 61 and a charging roller 62, and the cartridge P may have a developing roller 71.

[0156] As shown in Figure 21(b), the cartridge P includes a drum cartridge P1 having a photosensitive drum 61 and a charging roller 62, and a developing cartridge P2 having a developing roller 71. It is also possible that the cartridge P is separable into a drum cartridge P1 and a developer cartridge P2. In this case, it is preferable that the drum cartridge P1 and the developer cartridge P2 are independently detachable from the tray 51.

[0157] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 21(c), cartridge P may include cartridge PR having a photosensitive drum 61, a charging roller 62, and a developing roller 71, and cartridge PT having toner for replenishing cartridge PR. In other words, cartridge P may be separable into cartridge PR and cartridge PT.

[0158] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 21(d), cartridge P may include a drum cartridge P1 having a photosensitive drum 61 and a charging roller 62, a developing cartridge P2 having a developing roller 71, and a cartridge PT having toner for supplying to the developing cartridge P2. In other words, cartridge P may be separable into the drum cartridge P1, the developing cartridge P2, and cartridge PT.

[0159] [Example 2] Example 2 will be described using Figure 22. In Example 2, components similar to those described in Example 1 will be indicated using the same reference numerals as those used in Example 1. Furthermore, the description of components similar to those in Example 1 may be omitted.

[0160] In Example 1, we described the identification of cartridges in a tray unit when there are multiple product specifications. In this example, we will describe a method for identifying the color of the developer contained in the cartridge.

[0161] Figure 22 shows the specifications of the main unit 1A and illustrates the correspondence between the identification shape of the cartridge and the unique shape of the tray unit when the identification shape differs for each color of developer contained in the cartridge.

[0162] Figure 22(a) shows the tray unit with the correct color cartridges installed. Each cartridge P2 (PY2, PM2, PC2, PK2) contains a different color of developer and has different identification shapes 272Y, 272M, 272C, and 272K. On the other hand, the holding parts 254Y, 254M, 254C, and 254K of the tray unit 250 are provided with different unique shapes 255Y, 255M, 255C, and 255K. Since each unique shape 255Y, 255M, 255C, and 255K protrudes in a corresponding position to the recessed area of ​​each identification shape 272Y, 272M, 272C, and 272K, the installation of cartridges P2 into the tray unit 250 is not hindered, and cartridges P2 can be installed in the correct position.

[0163] Figure 22(b) shows the case where the wrong color cartridge is installed in the tray unit. Specifically, cartridge PY2 is incorrectly installed in the holding part 254K and cartridge PK2 is incorrectly installed in the holding part 254Y. In this case, the protruding parts of the unique shapes 255K and 255Y do not correspond to the recessed parts of the identification shapes 272Y and 272K, so the installation of cartridges PY2 and PK2 into the tray unit 250 is hindered, and cartridges PY2 and PK2 are held in the incorrect position. The configuration for restricting movement when the tray unit 250 with cartridge P2 held in the incorrect position is moved toward the first inner position is the same as the configuration shown in Example 1.

[0164] In this embodiment, an example of a color match is shown where the cartridge side is concave and the tray unit side is convex. However, this is not the only example; for example, the cartridge side may be convex and the tray unit may be concave.

[0165] [Configuration 1] The main body of the device, A tray that moves in the mounting direction and is movable from a pull-out position outside the main body of the device to a mounting position mounted on the main body of the device, the tray having a plurality of holding parts for holding a plurality of cartridges containing developer so that each of them is arranged in the mounting direction, A limiting portion provided on the main body of the device includes a first limiting portion and a second limiting portion located downstream of the first limiting portion in the mounting direction, An image forming apparatus comprising, When the regular cartridge, which corresponds to the holding portion, is mounted in the tray, the cartridge is held in the regular position. If a non-standard cartridge, which is a non-standard cartridge that does not correspond to the aforementioned holding part, is mounted in the tray, the non-standard cartridge will be held in a non-standard position that protrudes above the tray compared to the standard cartridge in the standard position. Each of the aforementioned cartridges is provided with a projection that protrudes upward, When the tray with multiple standard cartridges installed moves from the installation position to the withdrawal position, the protruding portion of each of the multiple cartridges passes below the limiting portion, and the tray reaches the installation position. Among the multiple regular cartridges supported by the tray, the regular cartridge located furthest downstream in the mounting direction is designated as the downstream cartridge, and the regular cartridge located furthest upstream is designated as the upstream cartridge. When the tray with multiple standard cartridges installed moves from the pull-out position to the installation position, the position of the protrusion of the downstream cartridge at the time the protrusion of the downstream cartridge passes under the first limiting portion is lower than the position of the protrusion of the upstream cartridge at the time the protrusion of the upstream cartridge passes under the first limiting portion. When the tray with the non-genuine cartridge installed moves from the pull-out position to the installation position, the movement of the tray is restricted by the non-genuine cartridge coming into contact with the first or second limiting portion. An image forming apparatus characterized by the following: [Configuration 2] In each of the plurality of cartridges, when the surface opposite to the surface to be held by the holding portion and facing outward from the tray is considered an open surface, the protrusion is provided on the open surface. The image forming apparatus according to configuration 1, characterized in that it is a picture forming apparatus. [Configuration 3] The tray is supported and includes a guide portion that guides the movement of the tray, The guide portion changes the inclination of the tray in the mounting direction as the tray moves from the mounting position to the pulling position. An image forming apparatus according to configuration 1 or 2, characterized by the above. [Structure 4] The guide portion supports the tray so that it is substantially horizontal when it is in the pull-out position, and supports the tray so that the downstream side in the mounting direction tilts downward in the vertical direction as the tray moves to the mounting position. The image forming apparatus according to configuration 3, characterized in that it is a picture forming apparatus. [Composition 5] On the side of the first limiting portion facing the tray, a guide surface is provided to guide the protruding portion when the tray is moved in the drawer direction from the mounting position toward the drawer position. An image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, characterized by the features described above. [Composition 6] The position of the aforementioned protrusion is common to all of the multiple cartridges. An image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, characterized by the above. [Composition 7] Each of the plurality of cartridges has an identification shape on the surface to be held in the tray, and each of the plurality of holding parts has a unique shape corresponding to the identification shape, so that the non-genuine cartridge attached to the holding part does not protrude from the information. An image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, characterized by the above. [Structure 8] The identification shape and the unique shape of the holding part are determined according to the type of developer. The image forming apparatus according to configuration 7, characterized by the features described above. [Composition 9] The type of developer refers to the color of the developer. The image forming apparatus according to configuration 8, characterized by the above. [Configuration 10] The identification shape of the cartridge and the unique shape of the retaining portion are determined according to the product specifications of the cartridge. The image forming apparatus according to configuration 7, characterized by the features described above. [Composition 11] Each of the aforementioned plurality of cartridges has at least one of the following: an image carrier that carries an electrostatic latent image corresponding to image information, a charging member that charges the image carrier, and a developer carrier that supplies a developer to the image carrier. An image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 10, characterized by the above. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0166] 1: Printer, 1A: Main unit, 15: Main unit locking part, 50: Tray unit, 54: Holding part, 73: Locking surface, P: Cartridge

Claims

1. The main body of the device, A tray that moves in the mounting direction and is movable from a pull-out position outside the main body of the device to a mounting position mounted on the main body of the device, the tray having a plurality of holding parts for holding a plurality of cartridges containing developer so that each of them is arranged in the mounting direction, A limiting portion provided on the main body of the device includes a first limiting portion and a second limiting portion located downstream of the first limiting portion in the mounting direction, An image forming apparatus comprising, When the regular cartridge, which corresponds to the holding part, is mounted in the tray, the cartridge is held in the regular position. If a non-standard cartridge, which is a non-standard cartridge that does not correspond to the aforementioned holding part, is mounted in the tray, the non-standard cartridge will be held in a non-standard position that protrudes above the tray compared to the standard cartridge in the standard position. Each of the aforementioned cartridges is provided with a projection that protrudes upward, When the tray with multiple standard cartridges installed moves from the installation position to the withdrawal position, the protruding portion of each of the multiple cartridges passes below the limiting portion, and the tray reaches the installation position. Among the multiple regular cartridges supported by the tray, the regular cartridge located furthest downstream in the mounting direction is designated as the downstream cartridge, and the regular cartridge located furthest upstream is designated as the upstream cartridge. When the tray with multiple standard cartridges installed moves from the pull-out position to the installation position, the position of the protrusion of the downstream cartridge at the time the protrusion of the downstream cartridge passes under the first limiting portion is lower than the position of the protrusion of the upstream cartridge at the time the protrusion of the upstream cartridge passes under the first limiting portion. When the tray with the non-genuine cartridge installed moves from the pull-out position to the installation position, the movement of the tray is restricted by the non-genuine cartridge coming into contact with the first or second limiting portion. An image forming apparatus characterized by the following:

2. In each of the plurality of cartridges, when the surface opposite to the surface to be held by the holding portion and facing outward from the tray is considered an open surface, the protrusion is provided on the open surface. The image forming apparatus according to feature 1.

3. The tray is supported and includes a guide portion that guides the movement of the tray, The guide portion changes the inclination of the tray in the mounting direction as the tray moves from the mounting position to the pulling position. The image forming apparatus according to feature 1.

4. The guide portion supports the tray so that it is substantially horizontal when it is in the pull-out position, and supports the tray so that the downstream side in the mounting direction tilts downward in the vertical direction as the tray moves to the mounting position. The image forming apparatus according to feature 3.

5. On the side of the first limiting portion facing the tray, a guide surface is provided to guide the protruding portion when the tray is moved in the drawer direction from the mounting position toward the drawer position. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The position of the aforementioned protrusion is common to all of the multiple cartridges. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

7. Each of the plurality of cartridges has an identification shape on the surface to be held in the tray, and each of the plurality of holding parts has a unique shape corresponding to the identification shape, so that the non-genuine cartridge attached to the holding part does not protrude from the information. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

8. The identification shape and the unique shape of the holding part are determined according to the type of developer. The image forming apparatus according to feature 7.

9. The type of developer refers to the color of the developer. The image forming apparatus according to feature 8.

10. The identification shape of the cartridge and the unique shape of the retaining portion are determined according to the product specifications of the cartridge. The image forming apparatus according to feature 7.

11. Each of the aforementioned plurality of cartridges has at least one of the following: an image carrier that carries an electrostatic latent image corresponding to image information, a charging member that charges the image carrier, and a developer carrier that supplies a developer to the image carrier. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

Images