Control device, image forming apparatus, waste toner transport unit, and program

Abstract

The present invention provides a control device, an image forming apparatus, a waste toner transport unit, and a program that can reduce wear at engagement points between components. [Solution] The control device comprises a first member (drive transmission member 214), a second member (idler gear 211) that can switch between an engaged state in which it engages with the first member and an unengaged state in which it does not engage with the first member, and a control unit 100 that performs a first operation to rotate the first member in a first direction in the engaged state, and a second operation to rotate the first member in a second direction opposite to the first direction, to alternately switch between the engaged state and the unengaged state, and to move the first member in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the first member and engaging with the second member when switching from the unengaged state to the engaged state, thereby causing vibration to the second member. The control unit 100 performs a third operation after the second operation to rotate the first member in a first direction at a rotation speed slower than the rotation speed during the first operation, thereby engaging the first member and the second member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a control device, an image forming apparatus, a waste toner conveyance unit, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] An image forming apparatus using electrophotographic process technology charges the surface of a photosensitive drum, which is a latent image carrier, by a charging device. Next, the image forming apparatus forms an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum by irradiating laser light based on image data. Next, the image forming apparatus supplies a developer from a developing device to the photosensitive drum to visualize the electrostatic latent image and forms a toner image on the photosensitive drum. Next, the image forming apparatus transfers the toner image onto a sheet of paper and fixes it, thereby forming an image on the sheet of paper. In such an image forming apparatus, there is a problem that toner adhering to and accumulating on the developing device falls during image formation and adheres to the photosensitive drum or is transferred to a transfer belt, resulting in image defects such as image contamination.

[0003] In response to such a problem, the image forming apparatus includes vibration applying means that performs a vibration applying operation to apply vibration to the developing device in order to suppress the accumulation of toner on the developing device.

[0004] In this regard, Patent Document 1 discloses an image forming apparatus including vibration applying means for applying vibration to a waste toner collection container to suppress the accumulation of toner in the waste toner collection container.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] The vibration excitation means comprises a first member and a second member that can be in an engaged state and an unengaged state. In the print operation that performs the developing process, the first member is engaged with the second member and rotates in a first direction together with the second member. On the other hand, in the excitation operation, the first member rotates in the opposite direction to the first direction relative to the stationary second member. As a result, vibration is transmitted from the first member to the second member when the first and second members switch from an unengaged state to an engaged state. In an image forming apparatus, if a printing operation is performed after a vibration operation when the first and second members are not engaged, the first member rotates at high speed in the first direction and engages with the second member, generating a large impact force at the engagement point. This leads to the problem of wear occurring at the engagement point.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide a control device, an image forming apparatus, a waste toner transport unit, and a program that can reduce wear at engagement points between components. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To solve the above problems, the control device described in claim 1 is: First member and A second member that can be switched between an engaged state in which it engages with the first member and an unengaged state in which it does not engage with the first member, A control unit that performs: a first operation of rotating the first member, which is in the engaged state, in a first direction; a second operation of rotating the first member in a second direction opposite to the first direction, thereby switching between the engaged state and the disengaged state, and when switching from the disengaged state to the engaged state, moving the first member in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the first member and engaging with the second member, thereby causing vibration to the second member; Equipped with, After the second operation, the control unit performs a third operation in which it rotates the first member in the first direction at a rotational speed slower than the rotational speed during the first operation, thereby engaging the first member and the second member.

[0009] The image forming apparatus according to claim 2 is The control device is provided as described in claim 1, Form an image on the paper.

[0010] The invention described in claim 3 is an image forming apparatus according to claim 2, The first member is provided with engaging portions arranged at equal intervals, The second member comprises engaged portions that are arranged at equal intervals and engage with the engaging portions.

[0011] The invention described in claim 4 is an image forming apparatus according to claim 3, The control unit stops the third operation after the first member has rotated by an angle equal to or greater than the number of pairs of engaging and engaged parts divided by 360 degrees.

[0012] The invention described in claim 5 is an image forming apparatus according to claim 2, The device includes a detection unit that detects when an engaging portion of the first member and an engaged portion of the second member that engages with the engaging portion are engaged, The control unit stops the third operation if the detection unit detects that the engaging portion and the engaged portion have engaged during the third operation.

[0013] The invention described in claim 6 is an image forming apparatus according to claim 5, The detection unit detects that the engaging portion and the engaged portion have engaged, based on the load of the motor driving the first member when the engaging portion and the engaged portion change from a non-engaged state to an engaged state.

[0014] The invention described in claim 7 is an image forming apparatus according to claim 5, The detection unit detects that the engaging portion and the engaged portion are engaged by detecting that the transport member or developing roller, which receives driving force from the first member, has rotated.

[0015] The invention according to claim 8 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the control unit performs the second operation and the third operation simultaneously with an operation different from the second operation and the third operation performed by the image forming apparatus.

[0016] The waste toner conveying unit according to claim 9 is the control device according to claim 1, a waste toner conveying path for conveying waste toner, a waste toner conveying member disposed in the waste toner conveying path, a drive unit for driving the first member, and is provided with the first member in the first operation, transmits the driving force from the drive unit to the waste toner conveying member via the second member that is in an engaged state with the first member, in the second operation, gives vibrations to the waste toner conveying member and the waste toner conveying path via the second member.

[0017] The program according to claim 10 is a first member a control device including a second member capable of switching between an engaged state engaged with the first member and a non-engaged state not engaged with the first member, a first operation of rotating the first member in a first direction in the engaged state, and a second operation of rotating the first member in a second direction opposite to the first direction to alternately switch between the engaged state and the non-engaged state, and when switching from the non-engaged state to the engaged state, moving the first member in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the first member and engaging with the second member to give vibrations to the second member, after the second operation, the control unit performs a third operation of rotating the first member in the first direction at a rotational speed slower than the rotational speed during the first operation to bring the first member and the second member into an engaged state.

Advantages of the Invention

[0018] According to the present invention, wear at the engagement points between members can be reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0019] [Figure 1] This is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of an image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a schematic cross-sectional view in the YZ plane near the developing apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram of the vicinity of the developing apparatus according to the first embodiment, viewed from above. [Figure 5] This is a schematic side view of the vicinity of the developing apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram showing a portion of the drive mechanism when the drive transmission member rotates in the first direction. [Figure 7] This is a schematic diagram of the drive transmission member. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram showing a portion of the drive mechanism when the drive transmission member rotates in the second direction. [Figure 9] This is a schematic diagram showing a portion of the drive mechanism when the drive transmission member rotates in the second direction. [Figure 10] This is a schematic diagram showing a portion of the drive mechanism when the drive transmission member rotates in the second direction. [Figure 11] This is a schematic diagram showing a portion of the drive mechanism when the drive transmission member rotates in the second direction. [Figure 12] This is a schematic diagram showing a portion of the drive mechanism when the drive transmission member rotates in the second direction. [Figure 13] This is a schematic diagram showing a portion of the drive mechanism when the drive transmission member rotates in the second direction. [Figure 14] This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the image forming unit according to the third embodiment. [Figure 15] This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the image forming unit according to the third embodiment. [Figure 16]This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the image forming unit according to the third embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0020] This embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, the scope of the invention is not limited to the illustrated examples.

[0021] [First Embodiment] <1. Configuration of the image forming apparatus 1> Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of an image forming apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main functional configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment. The image forming apparatus 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2 is a color image forming apparatus using an intermediate transfer method that utilizes electrophotographic process technology. The image forming apparatus 1 transfers the toner images of each color, Y (yellow), M (magenta), C (cyan), and K (black), formed on the photoreceptor drum 413 to the intermediate transfer belt 421 (primary transfer). Next, the image forming apparatus 1 superimposes the four toner images on the intermediate transfer belt 421 and then transfers them to the paper S (secondary transfer) to form an image.

[0022] The image forming apparatus 1 is a tandem system in which photoreceptor drums 413 corresponding to the four colors YMCK are arranged in series in the direction of travel of the intermediate transfer belt 421, and the toner images of each color are sequentially transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 421.

[0023] As shown in Figure 2, the image forming apparatus 1 comprises an image reading unit 10, an operation display unit 20, an image processing unit 30, an image forming unit 40, a paper transport unit 50, a fixing unit 60, a storage unit 70, a communication unit 80, and a control unit 100.

[0024] The control unit 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, and the like. The CPU 101 reads a program corresponding to the processing content from the ROM 102, loads it into the RAM 103, and works in cooperation with the loaded program to centrally control the operation of each block of the image forming apparatus 1 shown in Figure 2.

[0025] The image reading unit 10 includes an automatic document feeder 11 called an ADF (Auto Document Feeder), a document image scanning device 12 (scanner), and the like. The automatic document feeder 11 transports the documents D placed in the document tray using a transport mechanism and sends them to the document image scanner 12. The automatic document feeder 11 can continuously scan images from multiple documents D placed in the document tray all at once.

[0026] The document image scanning device 12 optically scans a document transported from the automatic document feeder 11 onto the contact glass or a document placed on the contact glass. Next, the document image scanning device 12 forms an image of the reflected light from the document onto the light-receiving surface of the CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor 12a and reads the document image. The image reading unit 10 generates input image data based on the reading result by the document image scanning device 12. The image processing unit 30 performs predetermined image processing on the input image data.

[0027] The operation display unit 20 includes, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) with a touch panel, and functions as both a display unit 21 and an operation unit 22. The display unit 21 displays various operation screens, image status displays, and the operating status of each function, in accordance with the display control signals input from the control unit 100. The control unit 22 is equipped with various operation keys such as a numeric keypad and a start key, and accepts various input operations from the user and outputs operation signals to the control unit 100.

[0028] The image processing unit 30 includes circuits and other components that perform digital image processing on the input job image data (input image data) according to initial settings or user settings. For example, the image processing unit 30 performs gradation correction based on gradation correction data under the control of the control unit 100. In addition to gradation correction, the image processing unit 30 also performs various correction processes such as color correction and shading correction, as well as compression processing, on the input image data.

[0029] The image forming unit 40 forms an image using colored toners for the Y, M, C, and K components based on the input image data that has been processed by the image processing unit 30. The image forming unit 40 includes image forming units 41Y, 41M, 41C, 41K, an intermediate transfer unit 42, and the like.

[0030] The image forming units 41Y, 41M, 41C, and 41K for the Y, M, C, and K components have similar configurations. For the sake of illustration and explanation, common components are indicated by the same reference numeral, and when distinguishing them, Y, M, C, or K is added to the reference numeral. In Figure 1, only the components of the image forming unit 41Y for the Y component are given reference numerals, while the components of the other image forming units 41M, 41C, and 41K are omitted.

[0031] The image forming unit 41 includes an exposure device 411, a developing device 412, a photoreceptor drum 413, a charging device 414, a drum cleaning device 415, and the like.

[0032] The photoreceptor drum 413 is an organic photoreceptor in which a photosensitive layer, which is a resin containing an organic photoconductor, is formed on the outer surface of a drum-shaped metal substrate, for example. The photoreceptor drum 413 functions as a latent image carrier. The control unit 100 controls the drive current supplied to the drive motor (not shown) that rotates the photoreceptor drum 413, thereby rotating the photoreceptor drum 413 at a constant peripheral speed.

[0033] The charging device 414 is, for example, a charging charger, which uniformly charges the surface of the photoconductive photoreceptor drum 413 to a negative polarity by generating a corona discharge.

[0034] The exposure apparatus 411, for example, is equipped with a semiconductor laser and irradiates the photoreceptor drum 413 with laser light corresponding to the image of each color component. As a result, the exposure apparatus 411 forms electrostatic latent images of each color component in the image area on the surface of the photoreceptor drum 413 that has been irradiated with laser light, due to the potential difference with the background area.

[0035] The developing device 412 is a two-component developing device that forms a toner image by visualizing an electrostatic latent image by depositing toners of each color component onto the surface of the photoreceptor drum 413. Further details will be described later.

[0036] The drum cleaning device 415 has drum cleaning blades and the like that are slid into contact with the surface of the photoreceptor drum 413. The drum cleaning device 415 removes the transfer residue toner remaining on the surface of the photoreceptor drum 413 after the primary transfer.

[0037] The intermediate transfer unit 42 includes an intermediate transfer belt 421, a primary transfer roller 422, a plurality of support rollers 423, a secondary transfer roller 424, a belt cleaning device 426, and the like.

[0038] The intermediate transfer belt 421 is an endless belt and is stretched in a loop between a plurality of support rollers 423. At least one of the plurality of support rollers 423 is a drive roller, and the others are driven rollers. For example, it is preferable that the roller 423A, which is located downstream in the belt travel direction from the primary transfer roller 422 for component K, is the drive roller. This makes it easier to maintain a constant belt travel speed in the primary transfer section. As roller 423A rotates, the intermediate transfer belt 421 travels at a constant speed in the direction of arrow A.

[0039] The primary transfer roller 422 is positioned on the inner circumferential side of the intermediate transfer belt 421, facing the photoreceptor drums 413 for each color component. The intermediate transfer unit 42 presses the primary transfer roller 422 against the photoreceptor drum 413, with the intermediate transfer belt 421 in between. This causes the intermediate transfer unit 42 to form a primary transfer nip for transferring the toner image from the photoreceptor drum 413 to the intermediate transfer belt 421.

[0040] The secondary transfer roller 424 is positioned on the outer circumferential side of the intermediate transfer belt 421, opposite the backup roller 423B which is located downstream of roller 423A in the belt travel direction. The intermediate transfer unit 42 presses the secondary transfer roller 424 against the backup roller 423B, with the intermediate transfer belt 421 in between. This causes the intermediate transfer unit 42 to form a secondary transfer nip for transferring the toner image from the intermediate transfer belt 421 to the paper S.

[0041] The intermediate transfer unit 42 performs primary transfer by sequentially overlaying the toner image on the photoreceptor drum 413 onto the intermediate transfer belt 421 as the intermediate transfer belt 421 passes through the primary transfer nip. Specifically, the intermediate transfer unit 42 applies a primary transfer bias to the primary transfer roller 422 and applies a charge of opposite polarity to the toner to the side of the intermediate transfer belt 421 that contacts the primary transfer roller 422. As a result, the intermediate transfer unit 42 electrostatically transfers the toner image onto the intermediate transfer belt 421.

[0042] Subsequently, the intermediate transfer unit 42 transfers the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 421 to the paper S as the paper S passes through the secondary transfer nip. Specifically, the intermediate transfer unit 42 applies a secondary transfer bias to the secondary transfer roller 424, applying a charge with the opposite polarity to the toner to the side of the paper S that contacts the secondary transfer roller 424. As a result, the intermediate transfer unit 42 electrostatically transfers the toner image to the paper S. The paper transport unit 50 then transports the paper S, on which the toner image has been transferred, toward the fuser unit 60.

[0043] The belt cleaning device 426 has a belt cleaning blade and the like that slides against the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 421. The belt cleaning device 426 removes the transfer residue toner remaining on the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 421 after secondary transfer.

[0044] The intermediate transfer unit 42 may have a configuration in which a secondary transfer belt is stretched in a loop around a plurality of support rollers, including a secondary transfer roller, instead of the secondary transfer roller 424. This configuration is a so-called belt-type secondary transfer unit.

[0045] The fixing unit 60 heats and pressurizes the paper S, which has been transported after the toner image has been secondarily transferred, using a fixing nip, thereby fixing the toner image to the paper S.

[0046] The paper transport unit 50 includes a paper feeding unit 51, a paper discharge unit 52, a transport path unit 53, and the like. The three paper feed tray units 51a to 51c of the paper feed unit 51 accommodate paper S (standard paper, special paper, etc.) identified based on basis weight, size, etc., according to pre-set types. The transport path section 53 has multiple transport roller pairs, such as a pair of resist rollers 53a.

[0047] The paper transport unit 50 feeds the paper S stored in the paper feed tray units 51a to 51c one sheet at a time from the top and transports it to the image forming unit 40 via the transport path unit 53. At this time, the registration roller unit, which is equipped with a pair of registration rollers 53a, corrects the tilt of the fed paper S and adjusts the transport timing. Next, the image forming unit 40 performs a secondary transfer of the toner image from the intermediate transfer belt 421 to one side of the paper S in one go. Next, the fixing unit 60 fixes the secondary transferred toner image to the paper. Next, the paper transport unit 50 discharges the image-formed paper S outside the machine via the paper discharge unit 52, which is equipped with a paper discharge roller 52a.

[0048] The storage unit 70 includes, for example, a non-volatile semiconductor memory, a hard disk drive, etc. The storage unit 70 stores various data, such as various setting information related to the image forming apparatus 1.

[0049] The communication unit 80 includes, for example, a communication control card such as a LAN (Local Area Network) card. The communication unit 80 transmits and receives various types of data with external devices (for example, personal computers) connected to a communication network such as a LAN or WAN (Wide Area Network).

[0050] <2. Configuration of the developing device 412> Next, the configuration of the developing apparatus 412 will be described in detail with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view in the YZ plane near the developing apparatus 412. Figure 4 is a schematic view of the vicinity of the developing apparatus 412 from above. The developing device 412 uses a two-component developing method, developing the electrostatic latent image formed on the photoreceptor drum 413 using a two-component developer containing toner and a carrier. In this way, the developing device 412 forms a toner image on the photoreceptor drum 413.

[0051] The developing apparatus 412 includes a developer housing 201. The developer housing 201 contains the developer, which includes toner and carrier. Inside the developer housing 201, there is a toner transport member 202, a toner supply member 203, and a developing roller 204. In the examples shown in Figures 3 and 4, the direction parallel to the rotation axis 202a of the toner transport member 202 is the X-axis direction, the horizontal direction perpendicular to the X-axis direction is the Y-axis direction, and the vertical direction perpendicular to both the X-axis and Y-axis directions is the Z-axis direction.

[0052] The toner transport member 202 and the toner supply member 203 are arranged along the axial direction (X-axis direction) of the developing roller 204. The toner transport member 202 and the toner supply member 203 are screw-shaped members having a central axis and a blade formed spirally around this central axis. The developer housing 201 includes a housing chamber 206 for housing the toner transport member 202 and a housing chamber 207 for housing the toner supply member 203. The housing chambers 206 and 207 are separated by a partition wall 205 arranged along the XZ plane. The toner transport member 202 and the toner supply member 203 are arranged in parallel with a partition wall 205 in between.

[0053] As shown in Figure 4, the toner supply member 203 has a supply screw 203a, a reverse-wound screw 203b, and a discharge screw 203c arranged coaxially in this order.

[0054] The supply screw 203a supplies developer to the developing roller 204. In the following explanation, the direction in which the developer is transported when the supply screw 203a is rotating in the forward direction will be referred to as the "first transport direction H1," and the opposite direction will be referred to as the "second transport direction H2." The reverse-winding screw 203b is located on the positive X-axis side of the supply screw 203a and transports the developer in the opposite direction to the supply screw 203a. The discharge screw 203c is located on the positive X-axis side of the reverse-wound screw 203b.

[0055] The supply screw 203a transports the developer in the first transport direction H1 when it is rotating forward. The reverse-wound screw 203b transports the developer in the second transport direction H2 when it is rotating forward. The discharge screw 203c transports the developer in the same first transport direction H1 as the supply screw 203a when it is rotating forward. As a result, the developer transported by the forward rotation of the supply screw 203a is hardly transported toward the positive X-axis direction than the reverse-wound screw 203b. In this case, the developer transported by the forward rotation of the supply screw 203a does not proceed toward the reverse-wound screw 203b side, but instead changes its path and is transported toward the toner transport member 202 side.

[0056] As shown in Figure 4, the storage chamber 207 is equipped with an outlet 207a at its positive X-axis end for discharging the developer. The discharge port 207a opens downward from the inner bottom of the containment chamber 207. The developer discharged from the discharge port 207a falls into a waste developer storage section (not shown) and is stored there.

[0057] The toner transport member 202 is driven to rotate in the forward direction, thereby transporting the developer in the opposite direction to the supply screw 203a.

[0058] As shown in Figure 4, the storage chamber 206 is provided with a supply port 206a at its positive X-axis end for supplying developer to the developer housing 201. Above the replenishment port 206a of the developer housing 201, there is a replenishment unit (not shown) consisting of a developer storage unit where replenishment developer is stored and a transport mechanism for transporting replenishment developer from the developer storage unit. Replenishment developer is supplied to the storage chamber 206 from above through the replenishment port 206a. The supplied replenishment developer joins the developer circulating in the annular circulation path within the developer housing 201 and is transported by the toner transport member 202.

[0059] As shown in Figure 4, the partition wall 205 has openings 205a and 205b. The opening 205a transfers the developer from the toner transport member 202 to the supply screw 203a. The opening 205b transfers the developer from the supply screw 203a to the toner transport member 202. As a result, the developer circulates between the storage chamber 206 and the storage chamber 207. A portion of the developer transported by the toner supply member 203 is supplied to the developing roller 204, and the developer is magnetically attracted to the outer surface of the developing roller 204.

[0060] The image forming apparatus 1 replenishes the toner that has been consumed during image formation by supplying developer from the supply port 206a. At the same time, the image forming apparatus 1 discharges the developer from the discharge port 207a. In this way, the image forming apparatus 1 replaces the deteriorated carrier in the developer housing 201 with the newly supplied carrier, thereby suppressing the deterioration of the carrier circulating within the developer housing 201. The rotation ratio of the toner supply member 203 and the toner transport member 202 during forward rotation, the opening widths of the openings 205a and 205b, and the number of turns of the reverse-wound screw 203b are set to values ​​that can maintain the amount of developer in the developer housing 201 at a predetermined level. In this embodiment, the rotational speed of the toner supply member 203 is 466 rpm, and the rotational speed of the toner transport member 202 is 491 rpm. The rotational speed ratio of the toner supply member 203 to the toner transport member 202 is 0.95:1. In this embodiment, the opening width of the openings 205a and 205b is 32.5 mm, and the number of turns of the reverse-wound screw 203b is 7.

[0061] The developing roller 204 faces the photoreceptor drum 413 at the opening of the developer housing 201. For example, the developing roller 204 transports the developer adsorbed on its outer surface toward the developing nip (or developing area) N, which is the part facing the photoreceptor drum 413. At the developing nip N, the developing roller 204 supplies toner to the photoreceptor drum 413.

[0062] The developing device 412 includes a prevention member 208 provided above the developing roller 204. The prevention member 208 suppresses the dust (scattered toner) caused by the developer when the developing roller 204 rotates.

[0063] The developing device 412 includes a suction unit 209 that sucks up toner splatter generated between the photoreceptor drum 413 and the developing roller 204. The suction unit 209 includes a duct 209a arranged along the upper outer surface of the developer housing 201 and a fan (not shown). The suction port 209b, which is the tip of the duct 209a, is positioned close to the developing roller 204 on the surface of the photoreceptor drum 413. The fan of the suction unit 209 sucks in air from the duct 209a. As a result, scattered toner generated between the photoreceptor drum 413 and the developing roller 204 is drawn into the duct 209a from the suction port 209b. After being transported through the duct 209a, the scattered toner is collected in a recovery tank (not shown). The control unit 100 controls the start, stop, and change of rotation speed of the fan provided in the suction unit 209.

[0064] In the suction section 209, toner accumulates on the walls of the duct 209a, and the accumulated toner spills onto the photoreceptor drum 413 or paper, causing contamination inside the image forming apparatus 1 or image defects that stain the image. In particular, near the suction port 209b, the laminar flow generated by the rotation of the developing roller 204 and the laminar flow generated by the rotation of the photoreceptor drum 413 intersect, creating a swirling airflow. Therefore, even if the suction air velocity in the suction section 209 is increased, toner cannot be completely collected near the suction port 209b, and toner tends to accumulate. This area near the suction port 209b is, for example, the tip of the prevention member 208 (the end on the photoreceptor drum 413 side).

[0065] In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 crushes the toner accumulated on the prevention member 208 by applying vibration to the prevention member 208. Next, the image forming apparatus 1 reduces the amount of toner accumulated on the prevention member 208 by sucking up and collecting the crushed toner with the suction unit 209 or by adhering it to the developing roller 204. As a result, the image forming apparatus 1 suppresses image defects caused by the accumulated toner spilling onto the photoreceptor drum 413 or paper.

[0066] <3. Configuration of the drive mechanism 210> Figure 5 is a schematic side view of the vicinity of the developing apparatus 412, and Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing a part of the configuration of the drive mechanism 210 provided by the developing apparatus 412. As shown in Figures 4 to 6, the drive mechanism 210 includes an idler gear 211 (second member), a drive motor 212, an elastic member 213, a drive transmission member 214 (first member), a developing roller gear 216, a toner supply member gear 217, and a toner transport member gear 218.

[0067] In this embodiment, the drive transmission member 214 (first member), the idler gear 211 (second member), and the control unit 100 are included in the control device.

[0068] The developing roller gear 216 transmits rotational driving force to the developing roller 204 to drive the developing roller 204 to rotate. The toner supply gear 217 transmits rotational driving force to the toner supply member 203 to drive the toner supply member 203 to rotate. The toner transport gear 218 transmits rotational driving force to the toner transport member 202 in order to rotate the toner transport member 202. The idler gear 211 transmits the rotational driving force output from the drive motor 212 to the developing roller gear 216, the toner supply member gear 217, and the toner transport member gear 218 via the drive transmission member 214.

[0069] As shown in Figures 6(a) and 6(b), the idler gear 211 has engaged portions 211a and 211d arranged at equal intervals on the opposing surface 211c, which is the surface facing the drive transmission member 214. The engaged portions 211a and 211d protrude toward the negative X-axis direction at a predetermined angle with respect to the X-axis direction.

[0070] The drive transmission member 214 is a substantially cylindrical member, as shown in Figure 7. Figure 6(c) is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the drive transmission member 214 and the end portion 211b of the engaged portion 211a, and the positional relationship between the drive transmission member 214 and the end portion 211e of the engaged portion 211d, as viewed from the negative X-axis direction. The shaded portion of the drive transmission member 214 shown in Figure 6(a) is a cross-sectional view along the line B1-B1 shown in Figure 6(c). The shaded portion of the drive transmission member 214 shown in Figure 6(b) is a cross-sectional view along the line B2-B2 shown in Figure 6(c).

[0071] The drive motor 212, under the control of the control unit 100, rotates the drive transmission member 214 around a rotation axis parallel to the X-axis direction by switching between a first direction and a second direction. The first direction is the forward rotation direction, which is clockwise when viewed from the negative X-axis side. The second direction is the reverse rotation direction, which is counterclockwise when viewed from the negative X-axis side opposite to the first direction. The elastic member 213 is a spring or the like, provided between the inner wall surface 215 of the housing of the image forming apparatus 1 and the drive transmission member 214, along the X-axis direction. The elastic member 213 is expandable and contractible in the X-axis direction.

[0072] The drive transmission member 214 includes engaging portions 214a and 214f ​​arranged at equal intervals on the opposing surface 214d facing the idler gear 211. The engaged portions 211a and 211d of the idler gear 211 may be positioned within the engaging portions 214a and 214f. Specifically, when the engaged portion 211a is positioned within the engaging portion 214a, the engaged portion 211d is positioned within the engaging portion 214f. When the engaged portion 211d is positioned within the engaging portion 214a, the engaged portion 211a is positioned within the engaging portion 214f.

[0073] The engaging portions 214a and 214f ​​are approximately right-angled trapezoidal in the XY plane. The engaging portion 214a includes a parallel portion 214b that is parallel to the X-axis and an inclined portion 214c that is inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the X-axis. The engaging portion 214f ​​includes a parallel portion 214g that is parallel to the X-axis and an inclined portion 214h that is inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the X-axis. The angles at which the inclined portions 214c and 214h are inclined with respect to the X-axis are approximately the same as the angles at which the engaged portions 211a and 211d of the idler gear 211 are inclined with respect to the X-axis. As shown in Figure 7, the drive transmission member 214 has a through hole 214e in its center in the YZ plane. The through hole 214e penetrates the drive transmission member 214 in the X-axis direction. The rotation axis of the drive transmission member 214 is inserted into the through hole 214e.

[0074] <4. Rotational motion in the first direction> Next, the operation of the developing apparatus 412 when the drive transmission member 214 rotates in the first direction will be described. In the states shown in Figures 6(a) and 6(b), the drive transmission member 214 is biased toward the idler gear 211 by the elastic force F1 of the elastic member 213. The engaged portion 211a of the idler gear 211 is positioned within the engaged portion 214a of the drive transmission member 214. The end portion 211b of the engaged portion 211a is in contact with the parallel portion 214b of the engaged portion 214a. The engaged portion 211d of the idler gear 211 is positioned within the engaged portion 214f ​​of the drive transmission member 214. The end portion 211e of the engaged portion 211d is in contact with the parallel portion 214g of the engaged portion 214f. The opposing surface 214d of the drive transmission member 214 is in contact with the opposing surface 211c of the idler gear 211. This state is defined as the engagement state between the engaging parts 214a and 214f ​​and the engaged parts 211a and 211d. In this engaged state, the control unit 100 drives the drive motor 212 so that the drive transmission member 214 rotates in the first direction. The rotational driving force of the drive motor 212 is transmitted to the idler gear 211 via the engaged portions 214a, 214f ​​and engaged portions 211a, 211d, which are in an engaged state.

[0075] At this time, the drive transmission member 214 transmits the rotational driving force of the drive motor 212 to the developing roller 204 via the developing roller gear 216, which meshes with the idler gear 211. The drive transmission member 214 transmits the rotational driving force of the drive motor 212 to the toner supply member 203 via the toner supply member gear 217, which meshes with the idler gear 211. The drive transmission member 214 transmits the rotational driving force of the drive motor 212 to the toner transport member 202 via a toner transport member gear 218 that meshes with the toner supply member gear 217.

[0076] In this case, the transport force exerted by the toner transport member 202 as it rotates in the first direction due to the rotational driving force of the drive motor 212 is greater than the load received by the toner transport member 202 from the developer stored in the storage chamber 206. Therefore, the toner transport member 202 rotates in the first direction around the rotation axis 202a. As a result, the developer stored in the storage chamber 206 is transported from the positive X-axis side to the negative X-axis side. In this case, the drive transmission member 214 transmits the rotational driving force of the drive motor 212, which is greater than the rotational load of the idler gear 211, to the idler gear 211. In this case, the idler gear 211 rotates in the first direction around the idler axis 219, which is parallel to the X-axis direction.

[0077] In this case, the developing roller 204 rotates counterclockwise when viewed from the negative X-axis direction, around a rotation axis parallel to the X-axis direction, due to the rotational driving force of the drive motor 212. As the developing roller 204 rotates, it supplies toner to the photoreceptor drum 413 at the developing nip N. The toner supply member 203 rotates counterclockwise when viewed from the negative X-axis direction, around a rotation axis parallel to the X-axis direction, due to the rotational driving force of the drive motor 212. As the toner supply member 203 rotates, it supplies developer to the developing roller 204. During rotational movement in the first direction, the drive transmission member 214 and the idler gear 211 rotate in the first direction while the engaging portions 214a, 214f ​​and the engaged portions 211a, 211d remain engaged.

[0078] As described above, the control unit 100 performs a first operation in which the drive transmission member 214 is rotated in a first direction while the engaging portions 214a, 214f ​​and the engaged portions 211a, 211d are engaged. As a result, the control unit 100 transmits a driving force greater than the rotational load of the idler gear 211 to the idler gear 211 via the drive transmission member 214, and executes the developing process by rotating the idler gear 211 in the first direction. The drive transmission member 214 transmits the rotational driving force of the drive motor 212 to the idler gear 211 via the engaging portions 214a and 214f ​​and the engaged portions 211a and 211d, which are engaged in the first operation.

[0079] <5. Rotational motion in the second direction> Next, the operation of the developing apparatus 412 when the drive transmission member 214 rotates in the second direction will be described. Figures 8 to 13 show schematic diagrams illustrating a portion of the configuration of the drive mechanism 210 when the drive transmission member 214 rotates in the second direction.

[0080] The control unit 100 drives the drive motor 212 so that the drive transmission member 214 rotates in the second direction, starting from a state where the engaging portions 214a, 214f ​​and the engaged portions 211a, 211d are engaged. As the drive transmission member 214 rotates in the second direction, the engaged portion 211a comes into contact with the inclined portion 214c of the engaging portion 214a, as shown in Figure 8(a). Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8(b), the engaged portion 211d comes into contact with the inclined portion 214h of the engaging portion 214f. The shaded portion of the drive transmission member 214 shown in Figure 8(a) is a cross-sectional view along the line B3-B3 shown in Figure 8(c). The shaded portion of the drive transmission member 214 shown in Figure 8(b) is a cross-sectional view along the line B4-B4 shown in Figure 8(c).

[0081] Figure 9 shows the state in which the control unit 100 further rotates the drive transmission member 214 in the second direction from the state shown in Figure 8. In this embodiment, when the drive transmission member 214 rotates in the second direction, the load that the toner transport member 202 receives from the developer stored in the storage chamber 206 is greater than the transport force that the toner transport member 202 exerts to transport the developer as it rotates in the second direction. In other words, the rotational load on the idler gear 211 during the rotational movement in the second direction is greater than the rotational driving force from the drive motor 212. Therefore, the idler gear 211 remains stationary and does not rotate.

[0082] At this time, the engaging portion 214a receives a force F2 from the engaged portion 211a at the inclined portion 214c, as shown in Figure 9(a). Furthermore, the engaging portion 214f ​​receives a force F2 from the engaged portion 211d at the inclined portion 214h, as shown in Figure 9(b). The shaded portion of the drive transmission member 214 shown in Figure 9(a) is a cross-sectional view along the line B5-B5 shown in Figure 9(c). The shaded portion of the drive transmission member 214 shown in Figure 9(b) is a cross-sectional view along the line B6-B6 shown in Figure 9(c). As the engaging portions 214a and 214f ​​receive force F2, the drive transmission member 214 moves to the negative X-axis direction, and the opposing surface 214d of the drive transmission member 214 and the opposing surface 211c of the idler gear 211 separate. As a result, the elastic member 213 contracts in the X-axis direction.

[0083] Figure 10 shows the state in which the control unit 100 further rotates the drive transmission member 214 in the second direction from the state shown in Figure 9. As shown in Figures 10(a) and 10(b), the drive transmission member 214 moves further toward the negative X-axis direction. The shaded portion of the drive transmission member 214 shown in Figure 10(a) is a cross-sectional view along the line B7-B7 shown in Figure 10(c). The shaded portion of the drive transmission member 214 shown in Figure 10(b) is a cross-sectional view along the line B8-B8 shown in Figure 10(c).

[0084] As the drive transmission member 214 moves further toward the negative X-axis direction, the engaged portion 211a of the idler gear 211 disengages from the engaged portion 214a of the drive transmission member 214. Furthermore, the engaged portion 211d of the idler gear 211 disengages from the engaged portion 214f ​​of the drive transmission member 214. The ends 211b of the engaged portion 211a and 211e of the engaged portion 211d come into contact with the opposing surface 214d of the drive transmission member 214. The elastic member 213 contracts further in the X-axis direction. The elastic member 213 shown in Figures 10(a) and (b) is in its most contracted state.

[0085] Figure 11 shows the state in which the control unit 100 further rotates the drive transmission member 214 in the second direction from the state shown in Figure 10. As shown in Figures 11(a) and 11(b), the end 211b of the engaged portion 211a and the end 211e of the engaged portion 211d are in contact with the opposing surface 214d of the drive transmission member 214, and the drive transmission member 214 rotates in the second direction while the elastic member 213 remains in its most contracted state. The shaded portion of the drive transmission member 214 shown in Figure 11(a) is a cross-sectional view along the line B9-B9 shown in Figure 11(c). The shaded portion of the drive transmission member 214 shown in Figure 11(b) is a cross-sectional view along the line B10-B10 shown in Figure 11(c).

[0086] Figure 12 shows the state in which the control unit 100 further rotates the drive transmission member 214 in the second direction from the state shown in Figure 11. As shown in Figure 12(a), the end portion 211e of the engaged portion 211d reaches the position of the parallel portion 214b of the engaged portion 214a, and the end portion 211e comes into contact with the parallel portion 214b. The shaded portion of the drive transmission member 214 shown in Figure 12(a) is a cross-sectional view along the line B11-B11 shown in Figure 12(c). As shown in Figure 12(b), the end portion 211b of the engaged portion 211a reaches the position of the parallel portion 214g of the engaged portion 214f, and the end portion 211b comes into contact with the parallel portion 214g. The shaded portion of the drive transmission member 214 shown in Figure 12(b) is a cross-sectional view along the line B12-B12 shown in Figure 12(c).

[0087] When end 211e contacts parallel portion 214b, and end 211b also contacts parallel portion 214g, the contraction of the elastic member 213 is released. As a result, the elastic repulsive force F3 of the elastic member 213 causes the drive transmission member 214 to move toward the positive X-axis direction.

[0088] Figure 13 shows the state in which the control unit 100 further rotates the drive transmission member 214 in the second direction from the state shown in Figure 12. As shown in Figure 13(a), the end portion 211e of the engaged portion 211d abuts against the parallel portion 214b of the engaging portion 214a. The shaded portion of the drive transmission member 214 shown in Figure 13(a) is a cross-sectional view along the line B13-B13 shown in Figure 13(c). As shown in Figure 13(b), the end portion 211b of the engaged portion 211a abuts against the parallel portion 214g of the engaging portion 214f. The shaded portion of the drive transmission member 214 shown in Figure 13(b) is a cross-sectional view along the line B14-B14 shown in Figure 13(c).

[0089] The drive transmission member 214 moves further toward the positive X-axis direction due to the elastic repulsive force F3 of the elastic member 213. As a result, the drive transmission member 214 collides with the opposing surface 211c of the idler gear 211 at the opposing surface 214d. In other words, the accumulated elastic repulsive force F3 of the elastic member 213 is released in a short time, causing the drive transmission member 214 to collide with the idler gear 211. As a result, the drive transmission member 214 imparts an impact force F4 to the idler gear 211. The vibration caused by the impact force F4 received by the idler gear 211 is transmitted to the prevention member 208 via the developing roller 204, toner supply member 203, toner transport member 202, developer housing 201, etc. When the prevention member 208 vibrates, the toner accumulated on the prevention member 208 is crushed, and the crushed toner is sucked up and collected by the suction unit 209. Alternatively, the crushed toner adheres to the developing roller 204.

[0090] When the control unit 100 further rotates the drive transmission member 214 in the second direction from the state shown in Figure 13, it returns to the state shown in Figure 8. In the states shown in Figures 8 to 13, the rotation of the idler gear 211 remains stopped. The control unit 100 causes the drive transmission member 214 to repeatedly collide with the idler gear 211 by continuously rotating the drive transmission member 214 in the second direction.

[0091] As described above, the control unit 100, as a second operation, rotates the drive transmission member 214 in a second direction, alternately switching the drive transmission member 214 and the idler gear 211 between an engaged state and an unengaged state. When the drive transmission member 214 and the idler gear 211 switch from an unengaged state to an engaged state, the control unit 100 moves the drive transmission member 214 in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the drive transmission member 214 and engaging with the idler gear 211, thereby causing vibration to the idler gear 211.

[0092] In rotational movement in the second direction, the drive transmission member 214 and the idler gear 211 can be in an engaged state in which the engaging portions 214a, 214f ​​and the engaged portions 211a, 211d are engaged, and in an unengaged state in which they are not engaged. In other words, the idler gear 211 (second member) can be switched between an engaged state in which it engages with the drive transmission member 214 (first member) and an unengaged state in which it does not engage with the drive transmission member 214.

[0093] As described above, the control unit 100 switches between the first operation and the second operation by switching the rotation direction of the drive transmission member 214.

[0094] <6. Wear at the engagement point between the first and second members> After the second operation, which involves vibrating the prevention member 208, the position where the drive transmission member 214 stops is random. Therefore, when the drive transmission member 214 stops, there is a possibility that the engaging portions 214a, 214f ​​and the engaged portions 211a, 211d are in a disengaged state and not engaged. For example, after the second operation, the engaged portion 211a may be located within the engaging portion 214a, the engaged portion 211d may be located within the engaging portion 214f, and the end portion 211b may not be in contact with the parallel portion 214b, and the end portion 211e may not be in contact with the parallel portion 214g. Alternatively, after the second operation, the idler gear 211 and the drive transmission member 214 may be in the retracted state shown in Figures 10 and 11. The retracted state is a state in which the engaged portions 211a and 211d are not located within the engaged portions 214a and 214f, and the ends 211b and 211e are in contact with the opposing surface 214d of the drive transmission member 214.

[0095] After the second operation, in order to execute the developing process from the disengaged state between the engaging parts 214a, 214f ​​and the engaged parts 211a, 211d, the drive transmission member 214 is rotated in the first direction at a relatively high speed as the first operation. In this case, when the ends 211b, 211e come into contact with the parallel sections 214b, 214g, a strong impact force is generated at the point of contact. As a result, wear occurs at the point of contact (engagement point) between the ends 211b, 211e and the parallel sections 214b, 214g.

[0096] After the second operation, the drive transmission member 214 is rotated in the first direction as the first operation in order to perform the developing process, starting from the retracted state where the elastic member 213 is most contracted. In this case, if the ends 211b, 211e and the parallel portions 214b, 214g come into contact before the elastic member 213 is fully extended, the ends 211b, 211e and the parallel portions 214b, 214g will slide in the direction of extension and contraction of the elastic member 213 (X-axis direction) at the point of contact. As a result, wear occurs at the point of contact (engagement point) between the ends 211b, 211e and the parallel portions 214b, 214g.

[0097] <7.Third action> In this embodiment, the control unit 100 of the image forming apparatus 1 performs a third operation after the second operation in order to reduce wear at the contact points (engagement points) between the end portions 211b, 211e and the parallel portions 214b, 214g. After the completion of the third operation, the control unit 100 performs a first operation to carry out the development process. The third operation performed by the control unit 100 will be described below.

[0098] As a third operation, the control unit 100 rotates the drive transmission member 214 in the first direction at the third operation rotation speed, engaging the engaging portions 214a and 214f ​​with the engaged portions 211a and 211d. The third operation rotation speed is slower than the rotation speed during the first operation. The control unit 100 stops the third operation after rotating the drive transmission member 214 by more than the third operation angle during the third operation. The third operating angle is the angle obtained by dividing 360 degrees by the number of pairs of engaging parts 214a, 214f ​​and engaged parts 211a, 211d. In this embodiment, the number of pairs of engaging parts 214a, 214f ​​and engaged parts 211a, 211d is 2. This allows the engaging portions 214a, 214f ​​and the engaged portions 211a, 211d to be reliably engaged without generating a strong impact force at the contact point between the ends 211b, 211e and the parallel portions 214b, 214g. Furthermore, by starting the first operation from the engaged state between the engaging portions 214a, 214f ​​and the engaged portions 211a, 211d, wear at the contact points between the ends 211b, 211e and the parallel portions 214b, 214g can be reduced.

[0099] The third operating rotation speed will be explained in detail below. The first time is defined as the period from the retracted state, when the elastic member 213 is most contracted, until it is fully extended. In the third operation, the time from the start of rotation of the drive transmission member 214 in the first direction until the engaging portions 214a, 214f ​​and the engaged portions 211a, 211d engage is defined as the second time. If the second time is longer than the first time, it is possible to prevent the contact points between the ends 211b, 211e and the parallel portions 214b, 214g from sliding in the direction of expansion and contraction of the elastic member 213.

[0100] The first time interval t1 is expressed by the following equation (1).

number

[0101] The second time interval t2 is expressed by the following equation (2).

number

[0102] When the second time is longer than the first time, the third operating rotation speed R is expressed by the following equation (3).

number

[0103] For example, in equation (3) above, if m: 0.02 kg, k: 0.2, L0: 28.3 mm, L1: 10.25 mm, L2: 13.75 mm, and θ: 117 deg, the third operating rotational speed R is slower than 188.2 rpm. In this case, the second time is longer than the first time. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the contact points between the ends 211b, 211e and the parallel sections 214b, 214g from sliding in the direction of expansion and contraction of the elastic member 213.

[0104] <8. Axial misalignment between the first and second members> Ideally, the idler gear 211 and the drive transmission member 214 should be positioned so that their respective axes of rotation coincide. However, since the idler gear 211 and the drive transmission member 214 are composed of different units, there is a possibility of axial misalignment occurring due to component tolerances, etc., where the axes of rotation of the idler gear 211 and the drive transmission member 214 do not coincide. When misalignment occurs, during the first operation, there is a moment when one end of the ends 211b, 211e and the parallel sections 214b, 214g comes into contact with one of the parallel sections, while the other end does not come into contact with the other parallel section. At that time, high pressure is applied to the contacting end and the parallel section, causing wear on the contacting end and the parallel section.

[0105] To reduce wear at the contact points between the ends 211b, 211e and the parallel sections 214b, 214g due to axial misalignment, it is preferable that the idler gear 211 and the drive transmission member 214 be made of a material with low specific wear. A material with low specific wear is, for example, PEEK (polyetheretherketone).

[0106] <9. Others> The developing device 412 may be equipped with a sealing member, such as urethane foam or a soft sealing material, to prevent the toner stored in the developer housing 201 from leaking out. This sealing member is a soft material that can fill the gaps in the developer housing 201. When the developing roller 204 and the toner transport member 202 are connected to the prevention member 208 via the sealing member, vibrations caused by the impact force F4 transmitted to the developing roller 204 and the toner transport member 202 via the idler gear 211 are suppressed by the elasticity of the sealing member. Therefore, it is preferable that the developing roller 204 and the toner transport member 202 are connected to the prevention member 208 via a rigid body. In this case, vibrations caused by the impact force F4 transmitted to the developing roller 204 and the toner transport member 202 are not easily suppressed and are efficiently transmitted to the prevention member 208. This allows the toner accumulated on the prevention member 208 to be efficiently crushed. The rigid body includes multiple rigid bodies fastened together with a fastening member, or multiple rigid bodies bonded together with a hardening adhesive or the like to form a single unit.

[0107] In the second operation, when the drive transmission member 214 applies an impact force F4 to the idler gear 211, a sound is generated by the impact. The user can recognize that the second operation is taking place by this sound. However, if the surroundings of the image forming apparatus 1 are quiet, the user may find the sound bothersome. Therefore, in this embodiment, the drive transmission member 214 performs the second operation at the same timing as the electrostatic cleaning operation performed in the image forming apparatus 1. The electrostatic cleaning operation is an operation in which an electrostatic cleaning member, which cleans the electrostatic wires of the electrostatic device 414, reciprocates in a direction along the electrostatic wires. In the image forming apparatus 1, the control unit 100 performs the electrostatic cleaning operation every time 3,000 sheets of A4 size paper are printed. The control unit 100 performs the electrostatic cleaning operation every time a print job is completed. As a result, the sound generated during the second operation and the sound generated during the electrostatic cleaning operation occur simultaneously. Therefore, the sound generated during the second operation in this embodiment does not stand out. In other words, the second operation in this embodiment is performed simultaneously with a different operation from the second operation performed in the image forming apparatus 1.

[0108] The drive transmission member 214 may perform a second operation while the fan of the image forming apparatus 1 is operating. This fan is a fan that prevents the temperature inside the image forming apparatus 1 from rising, and an ozone fan that adsorbs ozone generated inside the image forming apparatus 1 onto a filter for cleaning. As a result, the noise generated during the second operation and the noise generated by the fan operation occur simultaneously. Therefore, the noise generated during the second operation does not stand out on its own.

[0109] The drive transmission member 214 may perform a second operation while the post-processing device connected to the image forming apparatus 1 is in operation. This post-processing device is a device that performs post-processing on the image-formed paper, such as stapling, punching holes, sorting, saddle stitching, and tri-folding. As a result, the sound generated during the second operation and the sound generated by the operation of the post-processing equipment occur simultaneously. Therefore, the sound generated during the second operation does not stand out on its own.

[0110] In this embodiment, the control unit 100 may perform the second and third operations simultaneously with adjustment operations, warm-up operations, etc., related to the image forming process in the image forming apparatus 1. In other words, the control unit 100 may perform the second and third operations simultaneously with operations different from the second and third operations performed in the image forming apparatus 1. This eliminates the need to allocate separate time for the second and third operations, thereby suppressing a decrease in productivity in the image forming apparatus 1.

[0111] [Second Embodiment] Next, an image forming apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment will be described. In the following description, components similar to those in the image forming apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0112] The image forming apparatus 1 of the second embodiment includes a detection unit (not shown) that detects when the engaging portions 214a, 214f ​​and the engaged portions 211a, 211d are engaged. The detection unit detects the engagement state based on the load of the drive motor 212 when the engagement state changes from an unengaged state to an engaged state. The detection unit may detect the engagement state by detecting the rotation of the toner transport member 202 or the developing roller 204 in the first direction.

[0113] In the second embodiment, the control unit 100 stops the third operation when the detection unit detects that the engaging portions 214a, 214f ​​and the engaged portions 211a, 211d are engaged during the third operation. This ensures that the ends 211b, 211e and the parallel portions 214b, 214g come into contact with each other. Therefore, by starting the first operation from the engaged state of the engaging portions 214a, 214f ​​and the engaged portions 211a, 211d, wear at the contact points between the ends 211b, 211e and the parallel portions 214b, 214g can be reduced.

[0114] [Third Embodiment] Next, an image forming apparatus 1 according to the third embodiment will be described. In the following description, components similar to those in the image forming apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0115] As shown in Figure 14, the image forming unit 40 includes a brush roller 471 and a solid lubricant 472 for applying a lubricant to the photoreceptor drum 413. The brush roller 471 is driven to rotate, supplying lubricant particles scraped from the solid lubricant 472 to the photoreceptor drum 413.

[0116] As shown in Figures 15 and 16, the image forming unit 40 includes a brush gear 473, a one-way clutch 474, a waste toner transport gear 475, a first member 476, a second member 477, a drive motor 478, and the like. The first member 476 has the same configuration as the drive transmission member 214 in the first embodiment, and the second member 477 has the same configuration as the idler gear 211 in the first embodiment. The one-way clutch 474 does not restrict the brush roller 471 from rotating in the first direction during the first operation. On the other hand, the one-way clutch 474 restricts the brush roller 471 and the second member 477 from rotating in the second direction during the second operation. The image forming unit 40 includes a waste toner transport member and a waste toner transport path (not shown). The waste toner transport component is a screw-shaped component comprising a central axis and fins formed spirally around this central axis. The waste toner transport component is positioned within the waste toner transport path and transports the waste toner.

[0117] In the third embodiment, the control unit 100, the first member 476, the second member 477, the waste toner transport path, the waste toner transport member, and the drive motor 478 are included in the waste toner transport unit.

[0118] Next, the first operation in the third embodiment will be described. The control unit 100 uses the drive motor 478 to rotate the first member 476 in the first direction while the first member 476 and the second member 477 are engaged. As a result, the control unit 100 causes the first member 476 to transmit a driving force greater than the rotational load of the second member 477 to the second member 477, causing the second member 477 to rotate in the first direction, thereby rotating the brush roller 471 in the first direction. The brush gear 473 transmits rotational driving force to the waste toner transport gear 475 when the brush roller 471 rotates due to the rotational driving force output from the drive motor 478. The waste toner transport gear 475 transmits rotational driving force to the waste toner transport component to drive the waste toner transport component to rotate. The waste toner transport component transports the waste toner by rotating.

[0119] Next, the second operation in the third embodiment will be described. The control unit 100 rotates the first member 476 in the second direction using the drive motor 478. At this time, the second member 477 and the brush roller 471 remain stationary because their rotation is restricted by the one-way clutch 474. The control unit 100 rotates the first member 476 in the second direction, causing the first member 476 to collide with the second member 477, thereby applying an impact force to the second member 477. The vibrations caused by the impact force received by the second component 477 are transmitted to the brush roller 471, brush gear 473, waste toner transport gear 475, waste toner transport component, waste toner transport path, etc. Therefore, the toner accumulated in the waste toner transport components and waste toner transport paths is crushed as the waste toner transport components and waste toner transport paths vibrate. This prevents toner clogging in the waste toner transport path. Furthermore, it eliminates the need for components that suppress toner accumulation in the waste toner transport path.

[0120] After the second operation, the control unit 100 performs a third operation, which involves rotating the first member 476 in the first direction at the third operation rotation speed and engaging the first member 476 with the second member 477. In the third operation, the control unit 100 stops the third operation after the first member 476 has rotated by more than the third operation angle. This reduces wear at the engagement point between the first member 476 and the second member 477.

[0121] <8. Effects> As described above, the control device according to this embodiment includes a first member (drive transmission member 214, first member 476). The control device according to this embodiment includes a second member (idler gear 211, second member 477) that can be switched between an engaged state in which it engages with the first member and an unengaged state in which it does not engage with the first member. The control device according to this embodiment includes a control unit 100 that performs a first operation and a second operation. The first action is to rotate the first member, which is in an engaged state, in a first direction. The second operation involves rotating the first member in a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction, to alternately switch between an engaged and disengaged state. When switching from the disengaged state to the engaged state, the first member is moved in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the first member and engaging with the second member (positive X-axis direction), thereby causing vibration to be applied to the second member. After the second operation, the control unit 100 performs a third operation in which it rotates the first member in the first direction at a rotational speed slower than the rotational speed during the first operation, thereby engaging the first member and the second member. Therefore, the engaging portions 214a, 214f ​​and the engaged portions 211a, 211d can be engaged without generating a strong impact force at the contact point between the ends 211b, 211e of the idler gear 211 and the parallel portions 214b, 214g of the drive transmission member 214. Furthermore, since the first operation can be initiated from the engaged state between the engaging parts 214a, 214f ​​and the engaged parts 211a, 211d, wear at the engagement point between the engaging parts 214a, 214f ​​and the engaged parts 211a, 211d can be reduced. The first member 476 and the second member 477 can be engaged without generating a strong impact force. Furthermore, since the first operation can be initiated from the engaged state of the first member 476 and the second member 477, wear at the engagement point between the first member 476 and the second member 477 can be reduced.

[0122] The image forming apparatus 1 according to this embodiment includes a control device and forms an image on paper. This reduces wear at the engagement points between the engaging portions 214a, 214f ​​and the engaged portions 211a, 211d in the drive transmission member 214 and idler gear 211 of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0123] In the image forming apparatus 1 according to this embodiment, the first member (drive transmission member 214) includes engaging portions 214a and 214f ​​arranged at equal intervals. The second member (idler gear 211) is provided with engaged portions 211a and 211d that are arranged at equal intervals and engage with the engaging portions 214a and 214f. In the third operation, the control unit 100 stops the third operation after the first member has rotated by an angle equal to or greater than the number of pairs of engaging portions 214a, 214f ​​and engaged portions 211a, 211d divided by 360 degrees. This ensures that the engaging portions 214a and 214f ​​and the engaged portions 211a and 211d are reliably engaged during the third operation.

[0124] The image forming apparatus 1 according to this embodiment includes a detection unit that detects when the engaging portions 214a and 214f ​​of the first member (drive transmission member 214) and the engaged portions 211a and 211d of the second member (idler gear 211) that engage with the engaging portions 214a and 214f ​​are engaged. The control unit 100 stops the third operation if the detection unit detects that the engaging portions 214a, 214f ​​and the engaged portions 211a, 211d have engaged during the third operation. This ensures that the engaging portions 214a and 214f ​​and the engaged portions 211a and 211d are reliably engaged during the third operation.

[0125] In the image forming apparatus 1 according to this embodiment, the detection unit detects that the engaging portions 214a, 214f ​​and the engaged portions 211a, 211d have engaged, based on the load of the motor (drive motor 212) that drives the first member (drive transmission member 214) when the engaging portions 214a, 214f ​​and the engaged portions 211a, 211d change from an unengaged state to an engaged state. This makes it easy to detect the engagement state between the engaging portions 214a, 214f ​​and the engaged portions 211a, 211d.

[0126] In the image forming apparatus 1 according to this embodiment, the detection unit detects that the transport member (toner transport member 202) or developing roller 204, which receives driving force from the first member (drive transmission member 214), has rotated, thereby detecting that the engaging parts 214a, 214f ​​and the engaged parts 211a, 211d have engaged. This makes it easy to detect the engagement state between the engaging portions 214a, 214f ​​and the engaged portions 211a, 211d.

[0127] In the image forming apparatus 1 according to this embodiment, the control unit 100 performs the second and third operations simultaneously with operations that are different from the second and third operations performed by the image forming apparatus 1. This eliminates the need to allocate separate time for the second and third operations, thereby suppressing a decrease in productivity in the image forming apparatus 1.

[0128] The waste toner transport unit according to this embodiment includes a control device, a waste toner transport path for transporting waste toner, a waste toner transport member arranged within the waste toner transport path, and a drive unit (drive motor 478) for driving the first member 476. In the first operation, the first member 476 transmits the driving force from the drive unit to the waste toner transport member via the second member 477, which is engaged with the first member 476. In the second operation, the first member 476 applies vibration to the waste toner transport member and the waste toner transport path via the second member 477. This prevents toner clogging in the waste toner transport path. Furthermore, it eliminates the need for components that suppress toner accumulation in the waste toner transport path.

[0129] Although the above has been a detailed description based on embodiments of the present invention, the detailed configuration and detailed operation of each device constituting the image forming apparatus 1 can also be appropriately modified without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, in the above embodiment, the developing apparatus 412 is a two-component developing system, but the developing apparatus 412 may be a one-component developing system.

[0130] Furthermore, while the above description discloses examples using HDDs, semiconductor non-volatile memory, etc., as computer-readable media for the program according to the present invention, the invention is not limited to these examples. Portable recording media such as CD-ROMs can also be used as other computer-readable media. In addition, carrier waves can be used as a medium for providing the data of the program according to the present invention via a communication line. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0131] 1. Image forming apparatus 100 Control Unit 10 Image reading unit 11. Automatic document feeder 12. Document Image Scanning Device 12a CCD sensor 20 Operation display section 21 Display section 22 Control section 30 Image Processing Unit 40 Image forming unit 41, 41C, 41K, 41M, 41Y Image Forming Units 411 Exposure equipment 412 Developing equipment 413 Photoconductor Drum 414 Charging device 415 Drum cleaning device 42 Intermediate Transfer Unit 421 Intermediate transfer belt 422 Primary Transfer Roller 423 Support roller 423A Roller 423B Backup Roller 424 Secondary Transfer Roller 426 Belt cleaning device 50 Paper transport section 51 Paper feed section 51a, 51b, 51c Paper feed tray unit 52 Paper output section 52a Paper output roller 53 Conveyor Route Section Resist Roller vs 60 Fixing section 70 Storage section 80 Communications Department 201 Developer container 202 Toner transport component 202a Rotation axis 203 Toner supply component 203a Supply Screw 203b Reverse-wound screw 203c discharge screw 204 Developing Roller 205 Bulkhead 205a,205b opening 206 Confinement Room 206a Supply port 207 Confinement Room 207a Outlet 208 Prevention member 209 Suction part 209a Duct 209b Suction port 210 Drive mechanism 211 Idler gear (second component) 211a Engaged part 211b End 211c Opposite side 212 Drive motor 213 Elastic members 214 Drive transmission member (first member) 214a Engagement part 214b Parallel part 214c Slope 214d Opposite surface 214e Through hole 215 Interior wall surface 216 Developing roller gear 217 Toner supply component gear 218 Toner transport component gear 219 Idler axis 471 Brush Roller 472 Solid lubricant 473 Brush Gear 474 One-way clutch 475 Waste Toner Transport Gear 476 First Member 477 Second Member 478 Drive motor N developing nip S paper

Claims

1. First member and A second member that can be switched between an engaged state in which it engages with the first member and an unengaged state in which it does not engage with the first member, A control unit that performs: a first operation of rotating the first member, which is in the engaged state, in a first direction; a second operation of rotating the first member in a second direction opposite to the first direction, thereby switching between the engaged state and the disengaged state, and when switching from the disengaged state to the engaged state, moving the first member in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the first member and engaging with the second member, thereby causing vibration to the second member; Equipped with, The control unit performs a third operation after the second operation, in which it rotates the first member in the first direction at a rotational speed slower than the rotational speed during the first operation, thereby engaging the first member and the second member.

2. The control device is provided as described in claim 1, An image forming apparatus that forms an image on paper.

3. The first member is provided with engaging portions arranged at equal intervals, The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the second member comprises engaged portions arranged at equal intervals and engaging with the engaging portions.

4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control unit stops the third operation after the first member has rotated by an angle equal to or greater than 360 degrees divided by the number of pairs of engaging and engaged portions.

5. The device includes a detection unit that detects when an engaging portion of the first member and an engaged portion of the second member that engages with the engaging portion are engaged, The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the control unit stops the third operation when the detection unit detects that the engaging portion and the engaged portion have engaged in the third operation.

6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the detection unit detects that the engaging portion and the engaged portion have engaged based on the load of the motor that drives the first member when the engaging portion and the engaged portion change from a non-engaged state to an engaged state.

7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the detection unit detects that the transport member or developing roller, which receives driving force from the first member, has rotated, thereby detecting that the engaging portion and the engaged portion have engaged.

8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the control unit performs the second operation and the third operation simultaneously with operations different from the second operation and the third operation performed by the image forming apparatus.

9. The control device according to claim 1, A waste toner transport route for transporting waste toner, A waste toner transport member arranged within the waste toner transport path, A drive unit for driving the first member, Equipped with, The first member is, In the first operation, the driving force from the drive unit is transmitted to the waste toner transport member via the second member which is engaged with the first member. A waste toner transport unit that, in the second operation, applies vibration to the waste toner transport member and the waste toner transport path via the second member.

10. First member and A computer for a control device comprising a second member that can switch between an engaged state in which it engages with the first member and an unengaged state in which it does not engage with the first member, The control unit is configured to perform a first operation of rotating the first member, which is in the engaged state, in a first direction, and a second operation of rotating the first member in a second direction opposite to the first direction, thereby alternately switching between the engaged state and the disengaged state, and when switching from the disengaged state to the engaged state, moving the first member in a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the first member and engaging with the second member, thereby causing vibration to the second member. The control unit is programmed to perform a third operation after the second operation, in which it rotates the first member in the first direction at a rotational speed slower than the rotational speed during the first operation, thereby engaging the first member and the second member.

Images