Image forming apparatus

Abstract

To provide an image forming apparatus that can suppress the increase in size. [Solution] The image forming apparatus comprises an apparatus body 10 having a main housing 100 and a rear cover 200 that opens and closes an opening in the main housing 100, and a fixing device 80 that can be attached to and detached from the main housing 100 through the opening in the main housing 100 when the rear cover 200 is open. The apparatus body 10 has a first exterior side surface S1, a second exterior side surface S2, and a curved first corner portion C1. When the rear cover 200 is closed, it constitutes at least a part of the first exterior side surface S1 and at least a part of the first corner portion C1. The fixing device 80 has a fixing connector 85 at one end in the width direction that engages with the main housing 100 when the fixing device 80 is mounted on the main housing 100. When the fixing device 80 is mounted on the main housing 100 and the rear cover 200 is closed, the first corner portion C1 overlaps with the fixing connector 85 when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as an image forming apparatus, one including a main body housing and a fixing device detachable from the main body housing is known (Patent Document 1). In this technology, the fixing device is detachable from the main body housing through an opening of the main body housing that is opened by opening a rear cover.

Prior Art Document

Patent Document

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] The first corner overlaps with the engagement portion when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction, with the fixing device mounted on the main housing and the cover in the closed position, thereby suppressing the need to increase the size of the image forming apparatus in which the fixing device can be attached and detached.

[0007] The cover may have multiple cover ribs. Multiple cover ribs protrude from the inner surface of the first corner toward the other side in the attachment / detachment direction and contact the main body housing when the cover is in the closed position. The multiple cover ribs are arranged vertically.

[0008] The cover can reinforce the first corner by having multiple cover ribs that protrude from the inner surface of the first corner.

[0009] The main housing may have rib contact portions. The rib contact area is where multiple cover ribs come into contact when the cover is in the closed position. The rib contact area extends in the vertical direction.

[0010] The main housing has vertically extending rib contact sections where multiple cover ribs make contact, thereby distributing the load received from the cover ribs.

[0011] The main housing has a first side cover which constitutes at least a part of the second exterior side surface, and the rib contact portion may be formed on the first side cover.

[0012] The main casing may have multiple ribs. Multiple main body ribs protrude from the rib contact points toward the other direction in the attachment / detachment direction. The multiple main body ribs are arranged vertically.

[0013] The main housing has multiple main ribs that protrude from the rib contact area, thereby reinforcing the rib contact area.

[0014] At least one of the multiple cover ribs may overlap with one of the multiple body ribs when the cover is in the closed position and viewed from the attachment / detachment direction.

[0015] At least one of the multiple cover ribs overlaps with one of the multiple body ribs when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction, while the cover is in the closed position, thereby reinforcing the portion of the rib contact area that receives load from the cover rib.

[0016] Multiple cover ribs include multiple first cover ribs arranged adjacent to each other vertically, and multiple second cover ribs arranged adjacent to each other vertically, and the spacing between adjacent first cover ribs may be smaller than the spacing between adjacent second cover ribs.

[0017] By having a smaller spacing between adjacent first cover ribs than between adjacent second cover ribs, the portion of the cover where the first cover ribs are formed can be reinforced.

[0018] At least one of the multiple first cover ribs may overlap with one of the multiple body ribs when the cover is in the closed position and viewed from the attachment / detachment direction.

[0019] In a state where the cover is in the closed position, at least one of the plurality of first cover ribs overlaps with one of the plurality of main body ribs when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction, so that the portion of the rib contact part that receives a load from the first cover rib can be reinforced by the main body rib. Thereby, the portion of the cover where the first cover rib is formed can be further reinforced.

[0020] The fixing device may include a fixing handle. The fixing handle can be gripped when attaching / detaching the fixing device. The fixing handle is located at one end in the width direction of the fixing device. The cover may cover the fixing handle from one side in the width direction in a state where the fixing device is attached to the main body housing and the cover is in the closed position.

[0021] When the cover covers the fixing handle located at one end in the width direction of the fixing device from one side in the width direction in a state where the fixing device is attached to the main body housing and the cover is in the closed position, the fixing handle can be exposed when the cover is opened. Thereby, the fixing handle is easy to visually recognize and easy to grip.

[0022] The fixing device includes a fixing handle, and the cover may have a recess. The fixing handle can be gripped when attaching / detaching the fixing device. The fixing handle protrudes toward one side in the attachment / detachment direction. In the recess, the fixing handle fits in a state where the fixing device is attached to the main body housing and the cover is in the closed position.

[0023] Since the cover has a recess into which the fixing handle fits in a state where the fixing device is attached to the main body housing and the cover is in the closed position, when the cover is opened, the fixing handle protrudes toward one side in the attachment / detachment direction, so that the fixing handle is easy to grip.

[0024] The cover has a first portion having a recess and a second portion located below the first portion, wherein the first portion may protrude more than the second portion in one direction in the attachment / detachment direction when the cover is in the closed position.

[0025] The cover may have an asymmetrical shape.

[0026] The device body has a third exterior side located on the other side in the width direction of the first exterior side, and a curved second corner connecting the first exterior side and the third exterior side, and the main body housing may constitute the second corner.

[0027] The main casing may have a second side cover that forms at least a portion of the third exterior side and the second corner.

[0028] The device body may have a first main body connector, and the second corner portion may have a recess. The cable is electrically connected to the first main unit connector. The recess is recessed toward the other direction in which it is attached or detached. The first main body connector is located in the recess.

[0029] Because the first main unit connector is positioned in a recess at the second corner, which is formed by the second side cover, the second side cover (main unit housing) does not move like the cover, thus properly protecting the first main unit connector and the cable connected to it.

[0030] The cover has a cover handle that can be gripped when opening and closing the cover, and the cover handle may be located in the center of the width direction of the cover.

[0031] The cover handle may protrude in one direction in the attachment / detachment direction when the cover is in the closed position.

[0032] The main body of the device has a second main body connector to which the fixing device is electrically connected, and the engaging portion may be a fixing connector that is connected to the second main body connector when the fixing device is mounted on the main body housing.

[0033] The image forming apparatus also comprises a main housing, a cover, and a fixing device. The main casing has an opening on the side. The cover is movable between a closed position, which covers at least a portion of the side and closes the opening, and an open position, which exposes the opening. The fixing device can be attached to the main housing through the opening from one direction of attachment / detachment to the other, with the cover in the open position, and can be removed from the main housing through the opening from the other direction of attachment / detachment to the other. The cover overlaps with the fixing device when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction, and also overlaps with the fixing device when viewed from the width direction which is perpendicular to both the attachment / detachment direction and the vertical direction, with the fixing device mounted on the main housing and the cover in the closed position.

[0034] The cover overlaps with the fuser when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction and when viewed from the width direction, when the fuser is mounted on the main housing and the cover is in the closed position, thereby suppressing the need to increase the size of the image forming apparatus in which the fuser can be attached and detached.

[0035] The fixing device may be equipped with a fixing handle. The fixing handle can be gripped when attaching or detaching the fixing device. The fixing handle is located at one end of the fixing device in the width direction. The cover may cover the fixing handle from one side in the width direction when the fixing device is mounted on the main housing and the cover is in the closed position.

[0036] The cover, when the fuser unit is mounted on the main housing and the cover is in the closed position, covers the fuser handle located at one end of the fuser unit in the width direction from one side in the width direction, thereby exposing the fuser handle when the cover is opened. This makes the fuser handle easier to see and grasp. [Effects of the Invention]

[0037] This allows for the suppression of increasing the size of image forming apparatuses with detachable fixing devices. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0038] [Figure 1] This is a cross-sectional view showing an image forming apparatus. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view showing the fixing device and the main body of the device with the rear cover in the open position. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view showing the fuser connector side of the fuser device. [Figure 4] This is a perspective view showing an image forming apparatus. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view showing an image forming apparatus with the rear cover in the open position. [Figure 6] This is a view of the image forming apparatus from one side in the attachment / detachment direction. [Figure 7] This is a cross-sectional view of the image forming apparatus, taken from the width direction, showing the area near the fixing handle. [Figure 8] This is an enlarged perspective view showing an image forming apparatus with the rear cover in the open position. [Figure 9] This is a cross-sectional perspective view of the image forming apparatus, showing the area near the cover rib, as seen from the width direction. [Figure 10] This is a cross-sectional view of the image forming apparatus, showing a magnified view of the area near the cover rib, as seen from the width direction. [Figure 11] This is a perspective view showing the image forming apparatus in its packaging state. [Figure 12] This is a top-down cross-sectional view showing a magnified view of the area around the first corner of the image forming apparatus. [Figure 13] This is a perspective view of the main unit's casing, seen from the rear and slightly below. [Figure 14] This is a magnified perspective view showing the area around the fixing piece of the first side cover. [Figure 15] Figure 13 shows an enlarged view of section A (a) and a cross-sectional view of the area near the first engaging piece, viewed from one side in the attachment / detachment direction (b). [Figure 16] This is a perspective view of the main unit's casing, seen from the front and slightly below. [Figure 17](a) is a perspective view showing an enlarged view of the area around the protruding part of the second side cover, and (b) is a cross-sectional view of (a) at the BB section. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0039] Next, embodiments will be described. As shown in Figure 1, the image forming apparatus 1 comprises an apparatus body 10, a sheet supply unit 20, a process unit 30, a fixing device 80, and a sheet discharge unit 90.

[0040] The device body 10 includes a main housing 100, a front cover 11, and a rear cover 200 which serves as a cover. The main housing 100 has an output tray 12 that supports a sheet S on which an image is formed. The front cover 11 opens and closes the opening on the front side of the main housing 100. The rear cover 200 opens and closes the opening on the rear side of the main housing 100.

[0041] The sheet supply unit 20 comprises a sheet tray 21 and a supply mechanism 22. The sheet tray 21 holds sheets S such as paper. The supply mechanism 22 supplies the sheets S in the sheet tray 21 to the process unit 30.

[0042] The process unit 30 transfers the toner image onto the sheet S. The process unit 30 comprises an exposure device 40, a drum cartridge 50, a plurality of toner cartridges 60, and a transfer unit 70.

[0043] The exposure device 40 is located on top of the drum cartridge 50. The exposure device 40 emits a light beam to expose the surface of the photosensitive drum 51.

[0044] The drum cartridge 50 is located between the sheet tray 21 and the exposure unit 40. The drum cartridge 50 is detachable from the main housing 100 through an opening in the main housing 100, which is opened by opening the front cover 11. The drum cartridge 50 comprises a plurality of photosensitive drums 51, a plurality of chargers 52 corresponding to the plurality of photosensitive drums 51, and a drum frame 53.

[0045] The drum frame 53 supports the photosensitive drum 51 and the charger 52. The photosensitive drum 51 is rotatable relative to the drum frame 53. The drum frame 53 is movably supported by the main body housing 100. A toner cartridge 60 is removable from the drum frame 53.

[0046] Multiple toner cartridges 60 each contain toner of a different color. Each toner cartridge 60 includes a developing roller 61, a supply roller 62, a layer thickness regulating blade 63, a toner storage section 64 for storing toner, and an agitator 65.

[0047] The agitator 65 stirs the toner in the toner storage section 64. The agitator 65 supplies the toner to the supply roller 62. The supply roller 62 supplies the toner to the develop roller 61. The layer thickness regulating blade 63 regulates the toner on the develop roller 61 to a constant thickness.

[0048] The transfer unit 70 is located between the sheet tray 21 and the drum cartridge 50. The transfer unit 70 comprises a drive roller 71, a driven roller 72, a conveyor belt 73, and a plurality of transfer rollers 74. The conveyor belt 73 is an endless belt for conveying the sheet S. The drive roller 71 and the driven roller 72 rotate the conveyor belt 73. The transfer rollers 74 are located inside the conveyor belt 73. The transfer rollers 74 sandwich the conveyor belt 73 between themselves and the photosensitive drum 51.

[0049] The fixing device 80 has a heating section 81 and a pressurizing section 82. The heating section 81 heats the sheet S. The heating section 81 has a heating roller 81A and two heaters 81B. The pressurizing section 82 sandwiches the sheet S between itself and the heating section 81. The pressurizing section 82 has a pressurizing roller 82A.

[0050] The heating roller 81A and the pressure roller 82A are rotatable. In this embodiment, the heating roller 81A rotates by receiving a driving force from a drive source. The pressure roller 82A rotates in conjunction with the heating roller 81A.

[0051] The charger 52 charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 51. The exposure device 40 exposes the surface of the photosensitive drum 51. As a result, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum 51. The developing roller 61 supplies toner to the photosensitive drum 51. As a result, a toner image is formed on the photosensitive drum 51.

[0052] The sheet supply unit 20 transports the sheet S between the photosensitive drum 51 and the transfer roller 74. The toner image on the photosensitive drum 51 is transferred to the sheet S. The sheet S, on which the toner image has been transferred, is transported between the heating roller 81A and the pressure roller 82A. As a result, the fixing device 80 fixes the toner image transferred to the sheet S to the sheet S.

[0053] The sheet discharge unit 90 has a conveyor roller 91 and a discharge roller 92. The conveyor roller 91 conveys the sheet S to the discharge roller 92. The discharge roller 92 discharges the sheet S onto the discharge tray 12.

[0054] As shown in Figure 2, the fixing device 80 is detachable from the main housing 100. More specifically, the fixing device 80 is detachable from the main housing 100 through an opening 102 in the main housing 100, which is opened by opening the rear cover 200. In the following description, when describing directions, the attachment / detachment direction and width direction shown in Figure 2 will be used.

[0055] The attachment / detachment direction is the direction along which the fixing device 80 moves when attaching or detaching it from the main housing 100. In this embodiment, the attachment / detachment direction corresponds to the front-to-back direction of the image forming apparatus 1. One end of the attachment / detachment direction corresponds to the rear side of the image forming apparatus 1, and the other end of the attachment / detachment direction corresponds to the front side of the image forming apparatus 1. In the referenced drawings, the arrow indicating the attachment / detachment direction points to one end of the attachment / detachment direction.

[0056] The width direction is perpendicular to both the attachment / detachment direction and the vertical direction of the image forming apparatus 1. In this embodiment, the width direction corresponds to the left-right direction of the image forming apparatus 1. One side of the width direction corresponds to the right side of the image forming apparatus 1, and the other side of the width direction corresponds to the left side of the image forming apparatus 1. In the referenced drawings, the arrow indicating the width direction points to one side in the width direction.

[0057] The device body 10 has a first main body connector 150 and a second main body connector 160. The first main unit connector 150 is a connector to which cables are electrically connected. The first main unit connector 150 is positioned exposed to the outside of the main unit housing 100. As an example, the first main unit connector 150 includes a USB connector 151 and a LAN connector 152. The USB connector 151 is a connector to which a USB cable is electrically connected. The LAN connector 152 is a connector to which a LAN cable is electrically connected.

[0058] The second main body connector 160 is a connector to which the fixing device 80 is electrically connected. The second main body connector 160 is located inside the main body housing 100. The second main body connector 160 is exposed through the opening 102 when the rear cover 200 is opened. The second main body connector 160 is a floating connector held in the main body housing 100 so as to be movable relative to the main body housing 100.

[0059] The fixing device 80 is equipped with a fixing handle 83. The fixing handle 83 is a handle that can be gripped when attaching or detaching the fixing device 80 to the main housing 100. The fixing handle 83 protrudes from the frame 84 of the fixing device 80 in one direction in the attachment / detachment direction. In this embodiment, the fixing handle 83 protrudes to the rear. The fixing handle 83 is formed at one end and the other end of the fixing device 80 in the width direction.

[0060] As shown in Figure 3, the fixing device 80 has a fixing connector 85 as an engaging portion at one end in the width direction. In other words, in this embodiment, the "engaging portion" is the fixing connector 85. The fixing connector 85 engages with the main body housing 100 when the fixing device 80 is mounted on the main body housing 100. More specifically, the fixing connector 85 is connected to the second main body connector 160 (see Figure 2) when the fixing device 80 is mounted on the main body housing 100. When the fixing connector 85 is connected to the second main body connector 160, power can be supplied to the heater 81B (see Figure 1) of the heating unit 81, for example.

[0061] As shown in Figure 4, the main body of the device 10, with the rear cover 200 in the closed position described later, has a first exterior side S1, a second exterior side S2, a third exterior side S3, a first corner C1, and a second corner C2. The first exterior side surface S1 is one side surface of the device body 10 in the attachment / detachment direction. In this embodiment, the first exterior side surface S1 is the rear side surface of the device body 10.

[0062] The second exterior side S2 is the side located on one side in the width direction of the first exterior side S1. In this embodiment, the second exterior side S2 is the right side of the device body 10. The third exterior side S3 is the side located on the other side in the width direction of the first exterior side S1. In this embodiment, the second exterior side S2 is the left side of the device body 10.

[0063] The first corner C1 is a corner formed to connect the first exterior side surface S1 and the second exterior side surface S2. The second corner C2 is a corner formed to connect the first exterior side surface S1 and the third exterior side surface S3. The first corner C1 and the second corner C2 are each curved corners that are convex outward from the main body 10 of the device. In other words, the first corner C1 and the second corner C2 are rounded corners. The first corner C1 and the second corner C2 each extend in the vertical direction.

[0064] As shown in Figure 5, the main body housing 100 has an opening 102 formed on its first side surface 101. The first side surface 101 is one side surface of the main body housing 100 in the direction of attachment and detachment. In this embodiment, the first side surface 101 is the rear side surface of the main body housing 100. The first side surface 101 corresponds to the "side surface" of the "main body housing" where the "opening is formed".

[0065] The first exterior side S1 of the main body 10 (see Figure 4) is the same side as the first side 101 of the main body housing 100. More specifically, the first exterior side S1 is the same side as the first side 101, on one side in the attachment / detachment direction.

[0066] The rear cover 200 is movable relative to the main housing 100 between a closed position shown in Figure 4 and an open position shown in Figure 5. In this embodiment, the rear cover 200 is rotatable relative to the main housing 100 between the closed position and the open position about an axis extending in the width direction. The closed position is the position in which the rear cover covers at least a portion of the first side surface 101 to close the opening 102. The open position is the position in which the opening 102 is exposed.

[0067] The fixing device 80 can be attached to the main body housing 100 through the opening 102, moving from one direction in the attachment / detachment direction to the other, with the rear cover 200 in the open position shown in Figure 5. In this embodiment, the fixing device 80 can be attached to the main body housing 100 from rear to front. The fixing device 80 can also be removed from the main body housing 100 through the opening 102, moving from one direction in the attachment / detachment direction to the other, with the rear cover 200 in the open position. In this embodiment, the fixing device 80 can be removed from the main body housing 100 from front to rear.

[0068] The main casing 100 includes a first side frame 110, a second side frame 120, a first side cover 130, and a second side cover 140.

[0069] The first side frame 110 is a frame located on one side in the width direction of the main body housing 100. The first side frame 110 holds the second main body connector 160 (see Figure 2) so that it is movable relative to the first side frame 110. The second side frame 120 is a frame located on the other side in the width direction of the main body housing 100. The first side frame 110 and the second side frame 120 support the fixing device 80 when it is mounted on the main body housing 100.

[0070] The first side cover 130 and the second side cover 140 are covers that constitute the exterior of the device body 10. The first side cover 130 is positioned to cover the first side frame 110 from one side in the width direction. The second side cover 140 is positioned to cover the second side frame 120 from the other side in the width direction and from one side in the attachment / detachment direction.

[0071] The main casing 100 comprises at least a portion of the second exterior side S2, at least a portion of the third exterior side S3, and the second corner C2. Specifically, the first side cover 130 comprises at least a portion of the second exterior side S2. The second side cover 140 comprises at least a portion of the third exterior side S3 and the second corner C2.

[0072] The second corner C2 has a recess 141. More specifically, the second side cover 140 has a recess 141. The recess 141 is a recess that is recessed toward the other direction in the attachment / detachment direction. The recess 141 is open toward one direction in the attachment / detachment direction. The recess 141 is also open toward the other direction in the width direction.

[0073] The first main body connector 150 is located in the recess 141. More specifically, as shown in Figure 6, the recess 141 has a first hole 141A and a second hole 141B on the other side in the attachment / detachment direction. The first hole 141A and the second hole 141B are holes that penetrate in the attachment / detachment direction and are arranged vertically. The second hole 141B is located below the first hole 141A. The USB connector 151 is located exposed from the first hole 141A. The LAN connector 152 is located exposed from the second hole 141B. The USB connector 151 and the LAN connector 152 are held in place by the second side frame 120.

[0074] The rear cover 200 has an asymmetrical shape. In other words, the rear cover 200 is asymmetrical with respect to a straight line extending in the vertical direction (see the dashed line indicating the center 200C in Figure 6). More specifically, as shown in Figure 4, when the rear cover 200 is in the closed position, it constitutes a part of the first exterior side surface S1 and a part of the first corner C1.

[0075] In this embodiment, when the rear cover 200 is in the closed position, it forms the upper part of the first exterior side surface S1 and the upper part of the first corner C1. On the other hand, the rear cover 200 does not form the second corner C2. Thus, the rear cover 200 has an asymmetrical shape, forming at least a part of the first corner C1 and not the second corner C2.

[0076] The rear cover 200 has a cover body 210 and a cover handle 220. The cover body 210 is the part that covers the opening 102 (see Figure 5) of the main housing 100 when the rear cover 200 is in the closed position. When the rear cover 200 is in the closed position, the upper part of the first exterior side S1 and the upper part of the first corner C1 are formed by the cover body 210.

[0077] The cover handle 220 is a part that can be gripped when opening and closing the rear cover 200. The cover handle 220 protrudes from the cover body 210 in one direction in the attachment / detachment direction when the rear cover 200 is in the closed position. In this embodiment, the cover handle 220 protrudes rearward from the cover body 210 when the rear cover 200 is in the closed position.

[0078] The cover handle 220 is located at the upper end of the rear cover 200 when the rear cover 200 is in the closed position. Also, as shown in Figure 6, the cover handle 220 is located at the center 200C in the width direction of the rear cover 200. On the other hand, the cover handle 220 is offset to one side in the width direction with respect to the center 10C in the width direction of the device body 10. In other words, in the width direction, the cover handle 220 is closer to the second exterior side S2 than to the third exterior side S3.

[0079] As shown in Figure 7, the cover body 210 has a first portion 211, a second portion 212, and a third portion 213. The second portion 212 is the portion located below the first portion 211 when the rear cover 200 is in the closed position. In this embodiment, the second portion 212 is the lower end of the cover body 210 when the rear cover 200 is in the closed position.

[0080] The first portion 211 occupies most of the cover body 210. The first portion 211 extends vertically when the rear cover 200 is in the closed position. When the rear cover 200 is in the closed position, the first portion 211 protrudes further than the second portion 212 in one direction of attachment / detachment. In the embodiment, when the rear cover 200 is in the closed position, the first portion 211 protrudes further rearward than the second portion 212.

[0081] The first portion 211 of the rear cover 200 has a recess 211A. The recess 211A is formed at one end and the other end of the first portion 211 in the width direction (see Figure 8). The corresponding fixing handle 83 is inserted into the recess 211A in the width direction when the fixing device 80 is mounted on the main housing 100 and the rear cover 200 is in the closed position.

[0082] The third part 213 is the part that connects the first part 211 and the second part 212. With the rear cover 200 in the closed position, the third part 213 extends diagonally upward and in one direction of attachment / detachment from the upper end of the second part 212 and connects to the lower end of the first part 211.

[0083] The fixing handle 83 has a grip portion 83A, a first connecting portion 83B, and a second connecting portion 83C. The grip portion 83A is the part that can be gripped. The grip portion 83A extends in the vertical direction. The first connecting portion 83B and the second connecting portion 83C are parts that connect the grip portion 83A to the frame 84 of the fixing device 80. The first connecting portion 83B extends from the upper end of the grip portion 83A toward the other side in the attachment / detachment direction. The second connecting portion 83C extends from the lower end of the grip portion 83A toward the other side in the attachment / detachment direction. The fixing handle 83 is designed so that a hand can be inserted between the first connecting portion 83B and the second connecting portion 83C from the outside in the width direction of the fixing device 80 and grip the grip portion 83A.

[0084] As shown in Figure 8, the rear cover 200 has a plurality of cover ribs 230. The main housing 100 has rib contact portions 170. Multiple cover ribs 230 are located at one end of the rear cover 200 in the width direction.

[0085] The rib contact portion 170 is located at one end of the main housing 100 in the width direction. The rib contact portion 170 is located at one end of the main housing 100 in the attachment / detachment direction. The rib contact portion 170 is located at the upper end of the main housing 100.

[0086] As shown in Figure 9, the cover rib 230 protrudes from the inner surface of the first corner C1 of the cover body 210 toward the other side in the attachment / detachment direction when the rear cover 200 is in the closed position. The multiple cover ribs 230 are arranged vertically when the rear cover 200 is in the closed position. The multiple cover ribs 230 are located at the upper end of the rear cover 200 when the rear cover 200 is in the closed position.

[0087] Multiple cover ribs 230 contact the main housing 100 when the rear cover 200 is in the closed position. More specifically, multiple cover ribs 230 contact the rib contact portion 170 from one side in the attachment / detachment direction when the rear cover 200 is in the closed position. In other words, multiple cover ribs 230 contact the rib contact portion 170 from one side in the attachment / detachment direction when the rear cover 200 is in the closed position.

[0088] The rib contact portion 170 extends in the vertical direction. The rib contact portion 170 has a plate shape. The main body housing 100 further has a plurality of main body ribs 180. The main body ribs 180 protrude from the rib contact portion 170 toward the other direction in the attachment / detachment direction. The plurality of main body ribs 180 are arranged vertically. In this embodiment, the rib contact portion 170 and the main body ribs 180 are formed in the first side cover 130.

[0089] As shown in Figure 10, some of the multiple cover ribs 230 overlap with one of the multiple body ribs 180 when the rear cover 200 is in the closed position and viewed from the attachment / detachment direction. Specifically, the multiple cover ribs 230 include cover rib 231, cover rib 232, cover rib 233, cover rib 234, cover rib 235, and cover rib 236. The multiple body ribs 180 include body rib 181, body rib 182, body rib 183, and body rib 184.

[0090] Of the multiple cover ribs 230, cover ribs 234 and 235 overlap with one of the multiple main body ribs 180 when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction, with the rear cover 200 in the closed position. More specifically, cover rib 234 overlaps with main body rib 183 when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction. Also, cover rib 235 overlaps with main body rib 184 when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction. Cover ribs 231-233 and 236 do not overlap with main body ribs 180 (181-184) when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction.

[0091] Cover ribs 231-236 are arranged in this order from top to bottom. Cover rib 231 and cover rib 232 are adjacent to each other, one above the other. Cover rib 232 and cover rib 233 are adjacent to each other, one above the other. Cover rib 233 and cover rib 234 are adjacent to each other, one above the other. Cover rib 234 and cover rib 235 are adjacent to each other, one above the other. Cover rib 235 and cover rib 236 are adjacent to each other, one above the other.

[0092] The spacing D4 between adjacent cover ribs 234 and 235 is smaller than the spacing D1 between adjacent cover ribs 231 and 232. The spacing D4 between adjacent cover ribs 234 and 235 is smaller than the spacing D2 between adjacent cover ribs 232 and 233. In this embodiment, cover ribs 234 and 235 correspond to "multiple first cover ribs". Cover ribs 231 to 233 correspond to "multiple second cover ribs".

[0093] In this embodiment, the spacing D1 between adjacent cover ribs 231 and 232 is approximately the same as the spacing D2 between adjacent cover ribs 232 and 233. Also, the spacing D3 between adjacent cover ribs 233 and 234, and the spacing D5 between adjacent cover ribs 235 and 236 are approximately the same as the spacing D4 between adjacent cover ribs 234 and 235.

[0094] The main ribs 181-184 are arranged in this order from top to bottom. The spacing between adjacent main ribs 181 and 182 is approximately the same as the spacing between adjacent main ribs 182 and 183. The spacing between adjacent main ribs 183 and 184 is slightly smaller than the spacing between adjacent main ribs 181 and 182, and between adjacent main ribs 182 and 183.

[0095] As shown in Figure 11, the image forming apparatus 1 is shipped in a packaging box 310. For example, the packaging box 310 is a cardboard box. Cushioning materials 320, 330, and 340 are placed between the image forming apparatus 1 and the packaging box 310. The cushioning material 320 is placed one piece at each of the four corners on the bottom of the packaging box 310. For example, the cushioning material 320 is pulp mold.

[0096] The cushioning material 330 is a lid-shaped member placed over the image forming apparatus 1 from above. The cushioning material 330 has a top wall 331 and four side walls 332 on the front, back, left, and right. As an example, the cushioning material 330 is made of corrugated cardboard. The cushioning material 340 is assembled from four first sheets 341, two second sheets 342, and two third sheets 343. For example, the first sheets 341, second sheets 342, and third sheets 343 are made of corrugated cardboard.

[0097] As shown in Figure 10, one of the first sheets 341 of the cushioning material 340 is positioned facing the rear cover 200 via the rear side wall 332 of the cushioning material 330 in the attachment / detachment direction. As shown by the dashed line, if the cushioning material 340 pushes the cushioning material 330 from behind due to an impact during transport, and the rear side wall 332 of the cushioning material 330 deforms, the first sheet 341 of the cushioning material 340 may come into contact with the rear cover 200 via the side wall 332. Here, the portion of the rear cover 200 that the first sheet 341 can contact is called the load-receiving portion 201.

[0098] In this embodiment, cover ribs 233 to 236 are formed on the back surface of the load-receiving portion 201. The spacing D3 between adjacent cover ribs 233 and 234, the spacing D4 between adjacent cover ribs 234 and 235, and the spacing D5 between adjacent cover ribs 235 and 236 are smaller than the spacing D1 between adjacent cover ribs 231 and 232, and the spacing D2 between adjacent cover ribs 232 and 233.

[0099] As shown in Figure 12, the rear cover 200 overlaps with the fixing device 80 when the fixing device 80 is mounted on the main housing 100 and the rear cover 200 is in the closed position, when viewed from the direction of attachment / detachment. More specifically, the first corner C1 overlaps with the fixing connector 85 when the fixing device 80 is mounted on the main housing 100 and the rear cover 200 is in the closed position, when viewed from the direction of attachment / detachment.

[0100] More specifically, the portion of the first corner C1 formed by the rear cover 200 overlaps with the fixing connector 85 when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction, with the fixing device 80 mounted on the main housing 100 and the rear cover 200 in the closed position. Also, the portion of the first corner C1 formed by the rear cover 200 overlaps with the second main body connector 160 when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction, with the rear cover 200 in the closed position.

[0101] Furthermore, when the fixing device 80 is mounted on the main housing 100 and the rear cover 200 is in the closed position, the rear cover 200 overlaps with the fixing device 80 when viewed from the width direction. More specifically, when the fixing device 80 is mounted on the main housing 100 and the rear cover 200 is in the closed position, the rear cover 200 overlaps with the fixing handle 83 when viewed from the width direction. When the fixing device 80 is mounted on the main housing 100 and the rear cover 200 is in the closed position, the rear cover 200 covers the fixing handle 83, which is located at one end of the fixing device 80 in the width direction, from one side in the width direction.

[0102] The first corner C1 overlaps with the fixing handle 83 when viewed from the width direction, with the fixing device 80 mounted on the main housing 100 and the rear cover 200 in the closed position. More specifically, the portion of the first corner C1 formed by the rear cover 200 overlaps with the fixing handle 83 when viewed from the width direction, with the fixing device 80 mounted on the main housing 100 and the rear cover 200 in the closed position.

[0103] As shown in Figures 13 and 14, the first side frame 110 and the first side cover 130 are fixed to each other at the upper end of one end in the attachment / detachment direction. More specifically, the first side cover 130 has a fixing piece 131 extending toward the other end in the width direction. As shown in Figure 14, the fixing piece 131 has a through hole 131A. The through hole 131A penetrates in the attachment / detachment direction.

[0104] The first side frame 110 has a boss 111 that protrudes toward one direction in the attachment / detachment direction. The boss 111 is engageable with a through hole 131A of the fixing piece 131. The boss 111 has a bottomed cylindrical shape. The boss 111 is open toward one direction in the attachment / detachment direction. The first side frame 110 and the first side cover 130 are fixed to each other by engaging the boss 111 with the through hole 131A of the fixing piece 131 and fastening a screw (not shown) to the boss 111 from one direction in the attachment / detachment direction.

[0105] The first side frame 110 has a recess 112 on the other side in the attachment / detachment direction of the fixing piece 131. The recess 112 is a recess that is recessed toward the other side in the attachment / detachment direction. The recess 112 forms a clearance between the fixing piece 131 and the first side frame 110 in the attachment / detachment direction. Having such a recess 112 allows a finger to be inserted between the fixing piece 131 and the first side frame 110.

[0106] To remove the first side cover 130 from the first side frame 110, first remove the screws securing the first side frame 110 and the first side cover 130 from the boss 111. Then, by inserting a finger into the recess 112 and deforming the fixing piece 131 in one direction, the fixing piece 131 can be easily removed from the boss 111. This allows the first side cover 130 to be easily removed from the first side frame 110.

[0107] As shown in Figures 13 and 15(a), the first side frame 110 and the first side cover 130 are also fixed to each other at their lower ends. More specifically, the first side cover 130 has an engaging piece 132 extending toward the other side in the width direction. The engaging piece 132 includes a first engaging piece 132A and a second engaging piece 132B. The second engaging piece 132B is located one side of the first engaging piece 132A in the attachment / detachment direction.

[0108] Figure 15(b) shows a representative example of the first engaging piece 132A, where each engaging piece 132 has a claw 132C projecting upward at the other end in the width direction. The first side frame 110 has a hole 113 that is recessed upward. The first side frame 110 and the first side cover 130 are fixed to each other by engaging the claws 132C of the engaging piece 132 with the corresponding holes 113.

[0109] As shown in Figures 15(a) and (b), the first side frame 110 has recesses 114 on the other side in the width direction of the engaging pieces 132 (132A, 132B). The recesses 114 are recesses that are recessed upward. The recesses 114 are located on the other side in the width direction of the hole 113. The recesses 114 form a clearance between the engaging piece 132 and the first side frame 110 in the width direction. Having such recesses 114 allows a finger to be inserted between the engaging piece 132 and the first side frame 110.

[0110] When removing the first side cover 130 from the first side frame 110, the claw 132C can be easily released from the hole 113 by inserting a finger into the recess 114 and deforming the engaging piece 132 downwards. This allows the first side cover 130 to be easily removed from the first side frame 110.

[0111] As shown in Figures 16 and 17(a), the second side frame 120 and the second side cover 140 are fixed to each other at the lower end of the other end in the attachment / detachment direction. Specifically, the second side cover 140 has a projection 142 that protrudes toward one side in the width direction.

[0112] As shown in Figures 17(a) and (b), a recess 142A is formed in the protruding portion 142. The recess 142A is a recess that is recessed in one direction in the attachment / detachment direction. A through hole 142B is formed at the bottom of the recess 142A. The through hole 142B penetrates in the attachment / detachment direction.

[0113] The second side frame 120 has a fixing portion 121 to which the projection 142 is fixed. The fixing portion 121 has a bottomed hole 121A and a cylindrical protrusion 121B. The protrusion 121B is engageable with the through hole 142B of the projection 142. The protrusion 121B protrudes from the periphery of the hole 121A toward the other in the attachment / detachment direction.

[0114] The second side frame 120 and the second side cover 140 are fixed to each other by engaging the protrusion 121B with the through hole 142B of the projection 142 and fastening a screw (not shown) from the other side in the attachment / detachment direction to the hole 121A of the fixing part 121.

[0115] The second side cover 140 has a slit 144 between the protruding portion 142 and the lower wall 143 of the second side cover 140. The slit 144 extends in the width direction. The slit 144 opens toward one side in the width direction. The slit 144 penetrates in the vertical direction.

[0116] To remove the second side cover 140 from the second side frame 120, first remove the screws that secure the second side frame 120 and the second side cover 140 from the fixing part 121. Then, by deforming the protruding part 142 in the other direction of attachment / detachment, the through hole 142B of the protruding part 142 can be removed from the convex part 121B of the fixing part 121.

[0117] In this case, the presence of the slit 144 in the second side cover 140 allows the protruding portion 142 to be easily deformed in the other direction of attachment / detachment compared to when the slit 144 is absent. This makes it possible to easily remove the second side cover 140 from the second side frame 120.

[0118] Next, the effects of the embodiment will be described. When the first corner C1 is mounted on the main housing 100 and the rear cover 200 is in the closed position, the first corner C1 overlaps with the fixing connector 85 when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction. This makes it possible to suppress the increase in size of the image forming apparatus 1 on which the fixing device 80 can be attached and detached, compared to the case where the first corner does not overlap with the fixing connector 85 when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction.

[0119] Furthermore, when the rear cover 200 is opened, space is created on one side of the fixing connector 85 (fixing device 80) in the attachment / detachment direction, allowing the fixing device 80 to be pulled out almost straight from the other side in the attachment / detachment direction to the other side. This makes it easy to remove the fixing device 80.

[0120] The rear cover 200 can reinforce the first corner C1 by having a plurality of cover ribs 230 that protrude from the inner surface of the first corner C1.

[0121] The main housing 100 has a rib contact portion 170 that extends in the vertical direction and is in contact with multiple cover ribs 230, thereby distributing the load received from the cover ribs 230.

[0122] The main housing 100 has multiple main body ribs 180 that protrude from the rib contact portion 170, thereby reinforcing the rib contact portion 170.

[0123] When the rear cover 200 is in the closed position, the multiple cover ribs 230 overlap with one of the multiple main body ribs 180 when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction, thereby reinforcing the portion of the rib contact area 170 that receives load from the cover rib 230.

[0124] The spacing D3 between adjacent cover ribs 233 and 234, the spacing D4 between adjacent cover ribs 234 and 235, and the spacing D5 between adjacent cover ribs 235 and 236 are smaller than the spacing D1 between adjacent cover ribs 231 and 232, and the spacing D2 between adjacent cover ribs 232 and 233, thereby reinforcing the portion of the rear cover 200 where the cover ribs 233 to 236 are formed (the load-bearing portion 201 (see Figure 10)).

[0125] When the rear cover 200 is in the closed position, the cover ribs 234 and 235 overlap with one of the main body ribs 180 when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction, thereby reinforcing the portion of the rib contact area 170 that receives load from the cover ribs 234 and 235 with the main body ribs 180 (183 and 184). This further reinforces the portion of the rear cover 200 where the cover ribs 234 and 235 are formed (the load-receiving portion 201).

[0126] The rear cover 200 covers the fixing handle 83, located at one end of the fixing device 80 in the width direction, from one side in the width direction when the fixing device 80 is mounted on the main housing 100 and the rear cover 200 is in the closed position. This allows the fixing handle 83 to be exposed when the rear cover 200 is opened. As a result, the fixing handle 83 is easier to see and easier to grasp.

[0127] The rear cover 200 has a recess 211A into which the fixing handle 83 fits when the fixing device 80 is attached to the main housing 100 and the rear cover 200 is in the closed position. When the rear cover 200 is opened, the fixing handle 83 protrudes in one direction in the attachment / detachment direction, making it easy to grasp the fixing handle 83.

[0128] Since the first main unit connector 150 is positioned in the recess 141 of the second corner C2 formed by the second side cover 140, the second side cover 140 (main unit housing 100) does not move, unlike the rear cover 200, thus properly protecting the first main unit connector 150 and the cable connected to the first main unit connector 150.

[0129] When the fixing device 80 is mounted on the main housing 100 and the rear cover 200 is in the closed position, the rear cover 200 overlaps with the fixing device 80 when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction and when viewed from the width direction. This means that, compared to the case where the rear cover does not overlap with the fixing device 80, for example, when the rear cover in the closed position is behind the fixing device 80, it is possible to suppress the increase in size of the image forming apparatus 1 on which the fixing device 80 can be attached and detached.

[0130] Although embodiments have been described above, the image forming apparatus can be modified as appropriate, as illustrated below.

[0131] In this embodiment, multiple cover ribs 234, 235 (first cover ribs) overlapped with one of the multiple body ribs 180 when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction with the rear cover 200 in the closed position. However, for example, only one of the multiple first cover ribs may overlap with one of the multiple body ribs when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction with the cover in the closed position.

[0132] Furthermore, at least one of the multiple second cover ribs may overlap with one of the multiple body ribs when the cover is in the closed position and viewed from the attachment / detachment direction. Also, only one of the multiple cover ribs, including the first cover rib and the second cover rib, may overlap with one of the multiple body ribs when the cover is in the closed position and viewed from the attachment / detachment direction. The multiple cover ribs do not have to overlap with the multiple body ribs when the cover is in the closed position and viewed from the attachment / detachment direction.

[0133] In this embodiment, the spacing D4 between adjacent cover ribs 234 and 235 was smaller than the spacing D1 between adjacent cover ribs 231 and 232, and the spacing D2 between adjacent cover ribs 232 and 233. However, for example, the spacing between adjacent cover ribs may be approximately the same. Also, the cover does not need to have cover ribs protruding from the inner surface of the first corner.

[0134] In this embodiment, the rib contact portion 170 was formed on the first side cover 130, but for example, the rib contact portion may be formed on the first side frame 110. Also, in this embodiment, the rib contact portion 170 extended in the vertical direction, but for example, the rib contact portion does not have to extend in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the main housing does not have to have main body ribs protruding from the rib contact portion.

[0135] In the embodiment, the cover handle 220 was located at the center 200C in the width direction of the rear cover 200, but for example, the cover handle may be located at the center in the width direction of the main body of the device. Also, in the embodiment, the cover handle 220 protruded, but for example, the cover handle may be a recess on which a finger can be placed.

[0136] In this embodiment, the engaging portion was a fixing connector 85, but the engaging portion does not have to be a connector. For example, the engaging portion may be a projection formed on the frame of the fixing device that engages with a hole formed in the main body housing when the fixing device is mounted on the main body housing. Alternatively, for example, the engaging portion may be a recess formed on the frame of the fixing device that engages with a protrusion formed in the main body housing when the fixing device is mounted on the main body housing.

[0137] In this embodiment, the rear cover 200 overlapped the fixing device 80 when viewed from the width direction, with the fixing device 80 mounted on the main housing 100 and the rear cover 200 in the closed position. However, for example, the cover does not have to overlap the fixing device when viewed from the width direction, with the fixing device mounted on the main housing and the cover in the closed position.

[0138] In the embodiment, the rear cover 200 constituted a part of the first exterior side surface S1 when in the closed position, but for example, the cover may constitute the entire first exterior side surface when in the closed position. Also, in the embodiment, the rear cover 200 constituted a part of the first corner C1 when in the closed position, but for example, the cover may constitute the entire first corner when in the closed position.

[0139] The cover may form part of the second side when in the closed position. The cover may form at least part of the second corner when in the closed position. The cover may form part of the third side when in the closed position. The cover may have a symmetrical shape.

[0140] In the embodiment, the first portion 211 of the rear cover 200 protruded in one direction in the attachment / detachment direction more than the second portion 212 when the rear cover 200 was in the closed position. However, for example, the cover may extend straight in the vertical direction when in the closed position.

[0141] In this embodiment, a rear cover 200 that opens and closes an opening 102 formed on the rear side of the main housing 100 is exemplified as the cover. However, for example, the cover may open and close an opening formed on the right or left side of the main housing. Alternatively, the cover may open and close an opening formed on the front side of the main housing.

[0142] In the embodiment, the fixing device 80 had a heating section 81 with a heating roller 81A, but for example, the fixing device may have a heating belt or a heating film instead of a heating roller. Also, in the embodiment, the fixing device 80 had a pressure section 82 with a pressure roller 82A, but for example, the fixing device may have an endless belt and an elastic pad that sandwiches the belt between the heating section and the pressure roller instead of a pressure roller.

[0143] In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 was a printer capable of forming color images, but for example, the image forming apparatus may be a printer capable of forming only monochrome images. Alternatively, the image forming apparatus may be a copier, a multifunction printer, or the like.

[0144] Each element described in the embodiments and modifications may be implemented in any combination. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0145] 1. Image forming apparatus 10 Main unit of the device 80 Fixing device 85 Fixing connector (engaging part) 100 Main Unit 101 1st side (side) 102 Aperture 200 Rear Cover (Cover) C1 1st corner S1 1st exterior side S2 2nd exterior side

Claims

1. The device body includes a main body housing having an opening formed on a first side surface, and a cover that is movable between a closed position that covers at least a portion of the first side surface and closes the opening, and an open position that exposes the opening. The device comprises a fixing device which, with the cover in the open position, can be attached to the main body housing through the opening from one direction of attachment / detachment to the other, and can be removed from the main body housing through the opening from the other direction of attachment / detachment to the other, The device body is in the state where the cover is in the closed position. The first exterior side, which is the same side as the first side, A second exterior side of the first exterior side located in the width direction perpendicular to both the attachment / detachment direction and the vertical direction, It has a curved first corner portion connecting the first exterior side surface and the second exterior side surface, When the cover is in the closed position, it constitutes at least a portion of the first exterior side surface and at least a portion of the first corner. The fixing device has an engaging portion at one end in the width direction that engages with the main body housing when the fixing device is mounted on the main body housing, The image forming apparatus is characterized in that the first corner overlaps with the engaging portion when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction, with the fixing device mounted on the main body housing and the cover in the closed position.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the cover has a plurality of cover ribs that protrude from the inner surface of the first corner toward the other direction of attachment / detachment and contact the main body housing when the cover is in the closed position, and the plurality of cover ribs are arranged vertically.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that the main housing has a rib contact portion that extends in the vertical direction, where the plurality of cover ribs come into contact when the cover is in the closed position.

4. The main housing has a first side cover which constitutes at least a part of the second exterior side surface, The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that the rib contact portion is formed in the first side cover.

5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the main body housing has a plurality of main body ribs that protrude from the rib contact portion toward the other direction of attachment / detachment, and the plurality of main body ribs are arranged vertically.

6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that at least one of the plurality of cover ribs overlaps with one of the plurality of body ribs when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction when the cover is in the closed position.

7. The aforementioned multiple cover ribs are Multiple first cover ribs arranged adjacent to each other vertically, It includes multiple second cover ribs arranged adjacent to each other vertically, The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that the spacing between adjacent first cover ribs is smaller than the spacing between adjacent second cover ribs.

8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that at least one of the plurality of first cover ribs overlaps with one of the plurality of main body ribs when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction with the cover in the closed position.

9. The fixing device includes a fixing handle that can be gripped when attaching or detaching the fixing device, and the fixing handle is located at one end of the fixing device in the width direction. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the cover covers the fixing handle from one side in the width direction when the fixing device is mounted on the main housing and the cover is in the closed position.

10. The fixing device includes a fixing handle that can be gripped when attaching or detaching the fixing device, and the fixing handle protrudes toward one of the attachment / detachment directions. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the cover has a recess into which the fixing handle fits when the fixing device is mounted on the main body housing and the cover is in the closed position.

11. The aforementioned cover is The first portion having the aforementioned recess, It has a second part located below the first part, The image forming apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that the first portion protrudes more than the second portion in one direction of attachment / detachment when the cover is in the closed position.

12. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the cover has an asymmetrical shape.

13. The main body of the aforementioned device is A third exterior side located on the other side in the width direction of the first exterior side, It has a curved second corner portion connecting the first exterior side surface and the third exterior side surface, The image forming apparatus according to claim 12, characterized in that the main body housing constitutes the second corner portion.

14. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13, characterized in that the main body housing has a second side cover that constitutes at least a part of the third exterior side surface and the second corner portion.

15. The device body has a first main body connector to which the cable is electrically connected. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that the second corner portion is a recess that is recessed toward the other direction in which the attachment / detachment direction is located, and the first main body connector is arranged in the recess.

16. The cover has a cover handle that can be gripped when opening and closing the cover. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that the cover handle is located in the center of the cover in the width direction.

17. The image forming apparatus according to claim 16, characterized in that the cover handle protrudes toward one of the attachment / detachment directions when the cover is in the closed position.

18. The main body of the apparatus has a second main body connector to which the fixing device is electrically connected. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the engaging portion is a fixing connector connected to the second main body connector when the fixing device is mounted on the main body housing.

19. The main body casing has an opening formed on the side, A cover that is movable between a closed position that covers at least a portion of the side surface and closes the opening and an open position that exposes the opening, The device comprises a fixing device which, with the cover in the open position, can be attached to the main body housing through the opening from one direction of attachment / detachment to the other, and can be removed from the main body housing through the opening from the other direction of attachment / detachment to the other, The image forming apparatus is characterized in that, when the fixing device is mounted on the main housing and the cover is in the closed position, the cover overlaps with the fixing device when viewed from the attachment / detachment direction and when viewed from the width direction perpendicular to both the attachment / detachment direction and the vertical direction.

20. The fixing device includes a fixing handle that can be gripped when attaching or detaching the fixing device, and the fixing handle is located at one end of the fixing device in the width direction. The image forming apparatus according to claim 19, characterized in that the cover covers the fixing handle from one side in the width direction when the fixing device is mounted on the main housing and the cover is in the closed position.

Images