Frame, sheet storage device, sheet transport device, sheet processing device, and image forming apparatus

Abstract

The present invention provides a frame that allows connecting members to be attached to multiple locations within the frame. [Solution] A frame comprising a first member, a second member, and a connecting member having a first portion connected to the first member and a second portion connected to the second member, wherein the first member includes a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion configured to connect to the first portion of the connecting member, respectively, and the second member includes a third connecting portion and a fourth connecting portion configured to connect to the second portion of the connecting member, respectively, wherein at least the second connecting portion is not connected to a member constituting the frame, and at least the fourth connecting portion is not connected to a member constituting the frame.

Description

【Technical Field】 【0001】 The present invention relates to a frame, a sheet storage device including the frame, a sheet conveyance device, a sheet processing device, and an image forming device. 【Background Art】 【0002】 Conventionally, in a sheet storage device, a sheet conveyance device, a sheet processing device such as a finisher, and an image forming device such as a printer, a frame in which columns and stays are joined by welding is used. 【0003】 In the image forming device described in Patent Document 1, a frame for supporting an image forming unit is proposed. 【Prior Art Documents】 【Patent Documents】 【0004】 【Patent Document 1】 Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2017 - 44958 【Summary of the Invention】 【Problems to be Solved by the Invention】 【0005】 However, in the above - mentioned conventional technology, for each model, a frame in which stays are welded at positions corresponding to units such as an image forming unit is manufactured. Therefore, for example, when providing units of different sizes, it is necessary to prepare frames for each size. As a specific example, when using a large - capacity deck instead of a cassette with a predetermined storage capacity, it is necessary to prepare another frame in which stays are welded at positions corresponding to the deck. That is, for each model, it is necessary to prepare a frame. Since these frames are difficult to reuse, the conventional technology has a problem of a large environmental load. 【0006】 An object of the present invention is to provide a frame to which connecting members can be attached at a plurality of locations of the frame. 【Means for Solving the Problems】 【0007】 A typical configuration of the present invention is a frame comprising a first member, a second member, and a connecting member having a first portion connected to the first member and a second portion connected to the second member, wherein the first member includes a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion configured to connect to the first portion of the connecting member, respectively, and the second member includes a third connecting portion and a fourth connecting portion configured to connect to the second portion of the connecting member, respectively, wherein at least the second connecting portion is not connected to any member constituting the frame, and at least the fourth connecting portion is not connected to any member constituting the frame. [Effects of the Invention] 【0008】 According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a frame that can be fitted with connecting members at multiple locations on the frame. [Brief explanation of the drawing] 【0009】 [Figure 1] Cross-sectional view showing the schematic configuration of the first type of image forming apparatus. [Figure 2] Cross-sectional view showing the schematic configuration of the second type of image forming apparatus. [Figure 3] Cross-sectional view showing the schematic configuration of the third type of image forming apparatus. [Figure 4] Perspective view of the frame of the image forming apparatus according to Example 1 [Figure 5] Perspective view of the frame of the image forming apparatus according to Example 1 [Figure 6] Exploded perspective view of the frame of the image forming apparatus according to Example 1 [Figure 7] Exploded perspective view of the lower front frame according to Example 1 [Figure 8] Perspective view of the support stay according to Example 1 [Figure 9] (a)(b) Perspective view showing the assembly method of the support stay according to Example 1 [Figure 10] (a)(b) Perspective view showing the assembly method of the support stay according to Example 1 [Figure 11]Perspective view showing the method of assembling the support stay according to Example 1 [Figure 12] Perspective view showing the lower front frame and the sheet cassette guide portion of the image forming apparatus of the second form [Figure 13] Perspective view showing the lower front frame and the sheet cassette guide portion of the image forming apparatus of the third form [Figure 14] Perspective view showing the lower front frame and the sheet cassette guide portion of the image forming apparatus of the first form [Figure 15] (a) Perspective view of the support plate according to Example 1, (b) Perspective view of the support plate according to Example 2 [Figure 16] Perspective view of the support stay according to Example 2 [Figure 17] (a)(b) Perspective view showing the method of assembling the support stay according to Example 2 [Figure 18] (a)(b)(c) Partial cross-sectional view of the support stay and the support plate according to Example 2 【Mode for Carrying Out the Invention】 【0010】 Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be illustratively described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the dimensions, materials, shapes, relative arrangements, etc. of the components described below are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention only to those, unless specifically described. 【0011】 〔Example 1〕 An image forming apparatus provided with a frame according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3. 【0012】 <First form of the image forming apparatus> The first form of the image forming apparatus provided with a frame according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 1 together with the operation during image formation. 【0013】 The image forming apparatus A shown in Figure 1 is an intermediate tandem type image forming apparatus that transfers toner images (images) of four colors—yellow Y, magenta M, cyan C, and black K—to an intermediate transfer belt, and then transfers those toner images to a sheet to form an image. In the following description, although the components that use the above-mentioned toner colors will be denoted with the subscripts Y, M, C, and K, the configuration and operation of each component are substantially the same except for the color of the toner used, so the subscripts will be omitted as appropriate unless distinction is necessary. 【0014】 As shown in Figure 1, the image forming apparatus A includes an image forming unit 10 that forms an image on a sheet S, and a feeding unit 20 that feeds the sheet S toward the image forming unit 10. 【0015】 The image forming unit 10 includes a photosensitive drum 1 (1Y, 1M, 1C, 1K) as a photosensitive element, charging rollers 2 (2Y, 2M, 2C, 2K) as process means acting on the photosensitive drum 1, and a developing device 4 (4Y, 4M, 4C, 4K). 【0016】 The image forming unit 10 includes primary transfer rollers 5 (5Y, 5M, 5C, 5K), a laser scanner unit 3, an intermediate transfer belt 6, a secondary transfer roller 7, a secondary transfer opposing roller 8, and the like. 【0017】 The feeding unit 20 includes sheet cassettes 11a to 11c in which the sheets S are stored, and pick rollers 12a to 12c for picking up the sheets S stored in the sheet cassettes 11a to 11c. All of the sheet cassettes 11a to 11c are capable of accommodating large-sized sheets. 【0018】 The system includes feed roller pairs 13a to 13c for feeding the sheets S picked up by the pick rollers 12a to 12c to a transport path, transport roller pairs 14a to 14d for transporting the sheets S along the transport path, and a registration roller pair 15. 【0019】 As part of the process of forming an image using image forming apparatus A, an image forming job signal is first input to a control unit (not shown). 【0020】 When a signal is input, a sheet S stored in one of the sheet cassettes 11a to 11c is picked up by the pick rollers 12a to 12c. 【0021】 The sheet S is fed to the resist roller pair 15 by the feed roller pair 13a-13c and the transport roller pair 14a-14d. 【0022】 After the sheet S is corrected for skewness by the resist roller pair 15, it is fed at a predetermined timing into the secondary transfer section formed by the secondary transfer roller 7 and the secondary transfer opposing roller 8. 【0023】 In the image forming unit 10, the surface of the photosensitive drum 1Y is charged by the charging roller 2Y. 【0024】 Next, the laser scanner unit 3 irradiates the surface of the photosensitive drum 1Y with laser light in response to image data transmitted from an external device (not shown), forming an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 1Y. 【0025】 The developing device 4Y deposits yellow toner onto the electrostatic latent image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 1Y, thereby forming a yellow toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 1Y. 【0026】 The toner image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 1Y is transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 6 by applying a primary transfer bias current to the primary transfer roller 5Y. 【0027】 A similar process is used to form magenta, cyan, and black toner images on the 1M, 1C, and 1K photosensitive drums. 【0028】 When a primary transfer bias current is applied to the primary transfer rollers 5M, 5C, and 5K, the respective toner images are superimposed onto the yellow toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 6 and primary transfer is performed. 【0029】 As a result, a full-color toner image corresponding to the image signal is formed on the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 6. 【0030】 Toner remaining on the photosensitive drums 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K after the primary transfer is removed by a cleaning component (not shown) and collected in the toner recovery container 18. 【0031】 As the intermediate transfer belt 6 moves in a circular motion, the full-color toner image is sent to the secondary transfer section. 【0032】 In the secondary transfer section, a secondary transfer bias current is applied to the secondary transfer roller 7, thereby secondary transferring the full-color toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 6 to the sheet S. 【0033】 The sheet S onto which the toner image has been transferred is transported to the fuser unit 9 by the transport roller pair 14e, where it is heated and pressurized to fix the toner image to the sheet S. 【0034】 The sheet S on which the toner image has been fixed is discharged into the discharge tray 19 by the discharge roller pair 17. 【0035】 When images are formed on both sides of a sheet S, the sheet S, after an image has been formed on the first surface and it has passed through the fixing device 9, is transported to the inversion transport unit 21. 【0036】 The sheet S is reversed in both its front / back and front / back orientation by being transported in a switchback manner by the reversal transport unit 21. 【0037】 The sheet S is transported to the resist roller pair 15 via the double-sided transport unit 22, and then sent again to the secondary transfer unit formed by the secondary transfer roller 7 and the secondary transfer opposing roller 8, where a toner image is formed through the aforementioned image formation process. 【0038】 <Second form of image forming apparatus> A second embodiment of the image forming apparatus equipped with the frame according to the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 2. The image forming unit 10 shown in Figure 2 is the same as that shown in Figure 1, so the same numbers are used and the explanation is omitted. 【0039】 The feeding unit 20 includes sheet cassettes 11a to 11d in which sheets S are stored, and pick rollers 12a to 12d for picking up sheets S stored in sheet cassettes 11a to 11d. Sheet cassettes 11b and 11c are capable of accommodating large-sized sheets. While sheet cassettes 11b and 11c are capable of accommodating large-sized sheets, sheet cassettes 11a and 11d are capable of accommodating small-sized sheets. Specifically, the length of the sheet-carrying section of the sheet-accommodating part of sheet cassettes 11a and 11d is shorter than that of sheet cassettes 11b and 11c. 【0040】 The sheets S contained in the sheet cassettes 11a to 11c are picked up by the pick rollers 12a to 12c and transported through the feed roller pair 13a to 13c and the transport roller pair 14a to 14d to the register roller pair 15. 【0041】 The sheets S contained in the sheet cassette 11d are picked up by the pick roller 12d, pass through the feed roller pair 13d to join the double-sided conveying section 22, and are conveyed through the double-sided conveying section 22 to the register roller pair 15. 【0042】 <Third form of image forming apparatus> A third embodiment of the image forming apparatus equipped with the frame according to the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 3. The image forming unit 10 shown in Figure 3 is the same as that shown in Figure 1, so the same numbers are used and the explanation is omitted. 【0043】 The feeding unit 20 includes sheet cassettes 11c, 11e, and 11f in which the sheets S are stored, and pick rollers 12c, 12a, and 12d for picking up the sheets S stored in the sheet cassettes 11c, 11e, and 11f. 【0044】 Seat cassettes 11e and 11f can accommodate a large number of small-sized seats. Seat cassette 11c can accommodate large-sized seats. 【0045】 The sheets S contained in the sheet cassettes 11e and 11c are picked up by the pick rollers 12a and 12c and transported through the feed roller pair 13a and 13c and the transport roller pair 14a to 14d to the register roller pair 15. 【0046】 The sheets S contained in the sheet cassette 11f are picked up by the pick roller 12d, pass through the feed roller pair 13d to join the double-sided conveying section 22, and are then conveyed through the double-sided conveying section 22 to the register roller pair 15. 【0047】 <Frame of an image forming apparatus> The configuration of the frame 100 of the image forming apparatus A according to the present invention will be explained with reference to Figures 4 to 6. Figure 4 is a perspective view of the frame 100 of the image forming apparatus A viewed from the upper right side of the front. Figure 5 is a perspective view of the frame 100 of the image forming apparatus A viewed from the rear side. Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of the frame 100 of the image forming apparatus A viewed from the upper right side of the front. 【0048】 As shown in Figures 4, 5, and 6, the frame 100 of the image forming apparatus A is constructed by connecting an upper frame 50 and a lower frame 70. 【0049】 The upper frame 50 and the lower frame 70 are each made of metal sheet. The upper frame 50 is positioned vertically above the lower frame 70. 【0050】 The lower frame 70 is standardly mounted on the image forming apparatus A as part of the frame 100, and is different from the cassette pedestal unit, which can be optionally attached to expand functionality, such as increasing the number of sheets S that can be accommodated. 【0051】 Furthermore, the dashed line V shown in Figures 1 to 3 indicates the boundary between the upper frame 50 and the lower frame 70. 【0052】 The upper frame 50 consists of an upper front frame 51, an upper rear side plate 52, and stays 58, 59, 60, and 61 that connect the upper front frame 51 and the upper rear side plate 52. 【0053】 The upper front frame 51 consists of an upper right support column 511, an upper left support column 512, and stays 513 and 514 that connect the upper right support column 511 and the upper left support column 512. 【0054】 Stays 513 and 514 are welded to the upper right support column 511 and the upper left support column 512. 【0055】 Stay 58 is welded to the upper right support 511 and the upper rear plate 52. Stay 59 is welded to the upper left support 512 and the upper rear plate 52. Stays 60 and 61 are welded to stay 513 and the upper rear plate 52. 【0056】 The lower frame 70 consists of a lower front frame 71, a lower rear side plate 72, a bottom plate 73, and reinforcing plates 74 and 75. 【0057】 The lower front frame 71 and the lower rear side plate 72 are fixed to the bottom plate 73 by welding. 【0058】 The reinforcing plates 74 and 75 are fixed to the lower front frame 71, the lower rear side plate 72, and the bottom plate 73 by welding. 【0059】 The upper frame 50 is positioned and placed on top of the lower front frame 71 relative to the lower frame 70 and is fixed with screws (not shown). Similarly, the upper rear plate 52 is positioned and placed on top of the lower rear plate 72 and is fixed with screws (not shown). 【0060】 As shown in Figures 4 to 6, the orientation of the image forming apparatus A (frame 100) is such that the left-right direction of the apparatus is X, the front-back direction is Y, and the up-down direction is Z. 【0061】 <Composition of the lower front frame> The configuration of the lower front frame 71 will be explained using the exploded perspective view in Figure 7. 【0062】 The lower front frame 71 is composed of a right support column 71R as a first member, a left support column 71L as a second member, a stay 715, and a support plate 716. The right support column 71R and the left support column 71L each extend along the vertical direction. 【0063】 The right support column 71R is composed of a right outer support column 711 and a right inner support column 712. The right outer support column 711 is formed by a side portion 711a and bent portions 711b and 711c that are erected from the side portion 711a. The right inner support column 712 is formed by a side portion 712a and bent portions 712b and 712c that are erected from the side portion 712a. 【0064】 The left support column 71L is composed of a left outer support column 713 and a left inner support column 714. The left outer support column 713 is formed by a side portion 713a and bent portions 713b and 713c that are erected from the side portion 713a. The left inner support column 714 is formed by a side portion 714a and bent portions 714b and 714c that are erected from the side portion 714a. 【0065】 As part of the assembly procedure, first, the stay 715 is positioned relative to the right inner support 712 and the left inner support 714, and then fixed and connected with screws. 【0066】 The right inner support 712 is fitted into the right outer support 711 such that its side portion 712a faces its side portion 711a across a space, and the bent portions 711b and 712b, and 711c and 712c are fixed with screws, thereby connecting it to the right outer support 711. 【0067】 The left inner support 714 is fitted into the left outer support 713 such that its side portion 714a faces its side portion 713a across a space, and the bent portions 713b and 714b, and 713c and 714c are fixed with screws, thereby connecting it to the left outer support 713. 【0068】 The bent portion 711b of the right outer support 711 extends inward into the device more than the side portion 712a of the right inner support 712, and multiple holes 711d and tapped holes 711e are formed therein for positioning parts that will be assembled later. 【0069】 The bent portion 713b of the left outer support 713 extends inward into the device beyond the side portion 714a of the left inner support 714, and multiple holes 713d and tapped holes 713e are formed therein for positioning parts that will be assembled later. 【0070】 <Method for assembling support stays> As shown in Figure 8, the support stay 76, which serves as a connecting member, is joined to the stay base 761 and the stay reinforcing plate 762 by welding. 【0071】 The support stay 76 has a first portion that connects to the right inner support column 712 and a second portion that connects to the left inner support column 714. The first portion of the support stay 76 that connects to the right inner support column 712 has a protruding portion 761a and a tapped hole 762a. The second portion of the support stay 76 that connects to the left inner support column 714 has a contact portion 761c and a hole 761b. 【0072】 The protrusion 761a is formed at the right end of the stay base 761 and is a protrusion for positioning the support stay 76 relative to the right inner support column 712. The tapped hole 762a is formed at the right end of the stay reinforcing plate 762 and is a tapped hole for fixing the support stay 76 to the right inner support column 712 with a screw, which is a fastening member, and is a tapped hole that allows the screw to be screwed in the left-right direction, or X direction. 【0073】 The contact portion 761c is the left end of the stay base 761 and is a contact portion that abuts vertically against the support plate 716 of the left inner support column 714. The hole 761b is formed at the left end of the stay base 761 and is a hole 761b that penetrates in the vertical direction, the Z direction. That is, the hole 761b is formed in the contact portion 761c with the support plate 716 of the left inner support column 714. 【0074】 The side portion 712a of the right inner support column 712 is provided with a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion, both configured to connect to the first portion of the support stay 76, at two locations in the vertical direction (Z direction). 【0075】 The first connecting portion has a positioning hole 712d for inserting the protruding portion 761a, which is the first part, in the X direction perpendicular to the vertical direction, and a hole 712e for inserting a screw, which is a fastening member that is screwed into the tapped hole 762a, which is the first part. The second connecting portion has a positioning hole 712d and a hole 712e, similar to the first connecting portion, and is formed at a different position in the vertical direction than the first connecting portion. 【0076】 The support stay 76 is positioned relative to the side surface 712a of the right inner support column 712 by fitting its protruding portion 761a into the positioning hole 712d, and is then fixed with screws. On the other hand, with the right support column 71R and the left support column 71L assembled to the frame 100, the support stay 76 can be removed from the right inner support column 712 by removing the screws and pulling the protruding portion 761a out of the positioning hole 712d toward the left in the X direction in the figure. In other words, the positioning hole 712d, which serves as the first and second connecting portion, is configured to release the connection between the support stay 76 and its protruding portion 761a by moving the support stay 76 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction (in the example shown in the figure, toward the left along the X direction). 【0077】 Two support plates 716 are provided on the side portion 714a of the left inner support column 714, serving as a third and fourth connecting portion, respectively, configured to connect to the second portion of the support stay 76, at two locations in the vertical direction (Z direction). Figure 15(a) shows a perspective view of the support plate 716. 【0078】 The side portion 714a of the left inner support column 714 is provided with a positioning hole 714d configured to selectively connect to the two support plates 716, and a hole 714e for fixing the support plates 716 with screws, which are fastening members, at two locations in the vertical direction (Z direction). 【0079】 The two support plates 716, which serve as the third and fourth connecting sections, are each provided with a projection 716e for positioning the support plate 716 relative to the left inner support column 714, and a hole 716f for passing a screw, which is a fastening member that is screwed into the hole 714e of the left inner support column 714. 【0080】 The support plate 716 is positioned relative to the side surface 714a of the left inner support column 714 by fitting its protruding portion 716e into the positioning hole 714d, and is then fixed with screws. On the other hand, the support plate 716 can be removed from the left inner support column 714 by removing the screws and pulling the protruding portion 716e out of the positioning hole 714d in the X direction while the left inner support column 714 is assembled to the frame 100. In other words, the support plate 716 is configured to connect with the left inner support column 714, and is configured to release the connection with the left inner support column 714 by moving relative to it in a direction intersecting the vertical direction (the X direction in the example shown in the figure). 【0081】 Furthermore, the support plate 716, which serves as the third connecting portion, is provided with a mounting surface 716a, which is a support portion that supports the abutment portion 761c of the support stay 76 from below in the vertical direction, and tapped holes 716b for fixing the support stay 76 to the support plate 716 with screws, which are fastening members. The mounting surface 716a is a support portion that the lower surface of the support stay 76 abuts against. The support plate 716, which serves as the fourth connecting portion, has a mounting surface 716a and tapped holes 716b, similar to the third connecting portion, and is provided at a different position in the vertical direction from the third connecting portion. 【0082】 The support stay 76 is connected to the support plate 716 fixed to the left inner support column 714 by moving its contact portion 761c downward and placing it on the mounting surface 716a, and is then secured with screws. On the other hand, the support stay 76 can be removed from the support plate 716 by removing the screws and moving the contact portion 761c upward while the right support column 71R and the left support column 71L are assembled to the frame 100, thereby separating it from the mounting surface 716a. In other words, the support plate 716 is configured such that the connection between the support plate 716 and the support stay 76 is released by moving the support stay 76 relative to the support plate in a vertical direction. 【0083】 Next, the method for assembling the support stay 76 to the first position of the lower front frame 71 will be explained using Figures 9(a) and 9(b). Here, the position of the upper support plate 716 and positioning hole 712d of the lower front frame 71 is defined as the first position, and the position of the support plate 716 and positioning hole 712d below the first position is defined as the second position. A detailed explanation follows. 【0084】 As shown in Figure 9(a), the support stay 76 is tilted so as not to interfere with the bent portion 711b of the right outer support column 711 and the bent portion 713b of the left outer support column 713, which are extended inward into the device. Then, the tilted support stay 76 is inserted inside the lower front frame 71 as shown in Figure 9(a). 【0085】 After inserting the support stay 76 inside the lower front frame 71, the left contact portion 761c of the support stay 76 is moved vertically to rest on the mounting surface 716a of the support plate 716, so that the support stay 76 is in a nearly horizontal position as shown in Figure 9(b). 【0086】 The procedure for positioning and fixing the support stay 76 to the right inner support column 712 will be explained using Figures 10(a) and 10(b). Figure 10(b) shows the state in which the right outer support column 711 is not shown. 【0087】 The support stay 76, which is in a nearly horizontal position, is moved in a direction intersecting the vertical direction (the X direction in the example shown in the figure) so that the protruding portion 761a of the support stay 76 is fitted into the positioning hole 712d of the right inner support column 712. This positions the support stay 76 in the Y and Z directions relative to the right inner support column 712. 【0088】 A screw is inserted through the upper hole 711f in the right outer support 711 and the upper hole 712e in the right inner support 712, and screwed into the tapped hole 762a on the right side of the support stay 76. This positions and fixes the support stay 76 in the X direction relative to the right inner support 712. 【0089】 The procedure for fixing the support stay 76 to the support plate 716 of the left inner support column 714 will be explained using Figure 11. 【0090】 After placing the contact portion 761c of the support stay 76 on the mounting surface 716a of the support plate 716, a screw is inserted through the hole 761b provided in the support stay 76 and screwed into the tapped hole 716b of the support plate 716. This positions and fixes the support stay 76 in the Z direction relative to the support plate 716. 【0091】 The support stay 76 is configured as shown in Figures 10(a), 10(b), and 11, in order to allow it to be assembled in a second position lower than the first position of the right support column 71R and the left support column 71L. 【0092】 As shown in Figure 10(a), the side surface 711a of the right outer support 711 is provided with a screw insertion hole 711f at a second position, similar to the screw insertion hole 711f at the first position. Also, as shown in Figure 10(b), the side surface 712a of the right inner support 712 is provided with a positioning hole 712d for positioning and fixing the support stay 76, as well as a screw insertion hole 712e at a second position, similar to the positioning hole 712d at the first position. 【0093】 As shown in Figure 11, a support plate 716 is also attached to the side portion 714a of the left inner support column 714, at the second position, similar to the support plate 716 at the first position. 【0094】 With this configuration, when the support stay 76 is assembled to the first position of the lower front frame 71, the protruding portion 761a of the support stay 76 is connected to the upper positioning hole 712d. On the other hand, no member constituting the frame, particularly a member with the same structure as the support stay 76, is connected to the lower positioning hole 712d. Also, the contact portion 761c of the support stay 76 is connected to the upper support plate 716. On the other hand, no member constituting the frame, particularly a member with the same structure as the support stay 76, is connected to the lower support plate 716. 【0095】 On the other hand, when the support stay 76 is assembled to a second position lower than the first position of the lower front frame 71, the situation is the opposite of the above description. That is, the protruding portion 761a of the support stay 76 is connected to the lower positioning hole 712d. On the other hand, no member constituting the frame, particularly a member with the same structure as the support stay 76, is connected to the upper positioning hole 712d. Also, the contact portion 761c of the support stay 76 is connected to the lower support plate 716. On the other hand, no member constituting the frame, particularly a member with the same structure as the support stay 76, is connected to the upper support plate 716. 【0096】 <Configuration of the image forming apparatus and the position of the support stays and guide rails> Figure 12 shows the state in which the guide rails 77a to 77g of the sheet cassette are attached to the lower frame 70, with the support stay 76 attached to the first position of the lower front frame 71. The lower frame 70 shown in Figure 12 represents the frame that supports the sheet cassettes 11a to 11d (sheet storage section) as a unit in the second embodiment of the image forming apparatus A shown in Figure 2. 【0097】 In other words, in the frame 100 including the right support column 71R, left support column 71L, and support stay 76 as described above, the protruding portion 761a of the support stay 76 is connected to the upper positioning hole 712d, and no member constituting the frame, particularly a member with the same structure as the support stay 76, is connected to the lower positioning hole 712d. Furthermore, the abutting portion 761c of the support stay 76 is connected to the upper support plate 716, and no member constituting the frame, particularly a member with the same structure as the support stay 76, is connected to the lower support plate 716. 【0098】 In the second configuration of the image forming apparatus A shown in Figure 2, the sheet cassettes 11c and 11b as units are units of the same size in the sheet transport direction (left-right direction). The sheet cassettes 11a and 11d as units are units of the same size in the sheet transport direction, but are smaller in size in the sheet transport direction than the sheet cassettes 11c and 11b. 【0099】 Guide rails 77a, 77b, and 77c are positioned and fixed to the right outer support column 711 and the lower rear side plate 72. 【0100】 Guide rails 77d, 77e, and 77f are positioned and fixed to the left outer support column 713 and the lower rear side plate 72. 【0101】 The guide rail 77g is positioned and fixed to the support stay 76 and the lower rear plate 72 between the right support column 71R and the left support column 71L. 【0102】 Guide rails 77a and 77d support and guide the insertion and removal of the sheet cassette 11c in the second embodiment of the image forming apparatus A shown in Figure 2. 【0103】 Guide rails 77b and 77e support and guide the insertion and removal of the sheet cassette 11b. 【0104】 Guide rails 77c and 77g support and guide the insertion and removal of the sheet cassette 11a. 【0105】 Guide rails 77f and 77g support and guide the insertion and removal of the sheet cassette 11d. 【0106】 Figure 13 shows the state in which the guide rails 77a, 77b, 77d, 77e, and 77g of the sheet cassette are attached to the lower frame 70, with the support stay 76 attached to the second position of the lower front frame 71. The lower frame 70 shown in Figure 13 represents the frame that supports the sheet cassettes 11c, 11e, and 11f (sheet storage section) as units in the second embodiment of the image forming apparatus A shown in Figure 3. 【0107】 In other words, in the frame 100 including the right support column 71R, left support column 71L, and support stay 76 as described above, the protruding portion 761a of the support stay 76 is connected to the lower positioning hole 712d, and no member constituting the frame, particularly a member with the same structure as the support stay 76, is connected to the upper positioning hole 712d. Furthermore, the contact portion 761c of the support stay 76 is connected to the lower support plate 716, and no member constituting the frame, particularly a member with the same structure as the support stay 76, is connected to the upper support plate 716. 【0108】 In the third configuration of the image forming apparatus A shown in Figure 3, the sheet cassettes 11e and 11f as units are units of the same size in the sheet transport direction (left-right direction). Sheet cassettes 11e and 11f are units of a smaller size in the sheet transport direction than sheet cassette 11c. Sheet cassettes 11e and 11f are units of a larger size in the vertical direction than sheet cassette 11c, and are units of a larger sheet capacity. 【0109】 Guide rails 77a and 77b are positioned and fixed to the right outer support column 711 and the lower rear side plate 72. 【0110】 Guide rails 77d and 77e are positioned and fixed to the left outer support column 713 and the lower rear side plate 72. 【0111】 The guide rail 77g is positioned and fixed to the support stay 76 and the lower rear plate 72 between the right support column 71R and the left support column 71L. 【0112】 Guide rails 77a and 77d support and guide the insertion and removal of the sheet cassette 11c in the third embodiment of the image forming apparatus shown in Figure 3. 【0113】 Guide rails 77b and 77g support and guide the insertion and removal of the sheet cassette 11e. 【0114】 Guide rails 77e and 77g support and guide the insertion and removal of the sheet cassette 11f. 【0115】 Figure 14 shows the state in which the guide rails 77a to 77f of the sheet cassette are attached to the lower frame 70, which does not have the support stay 76 attached to the lower front frame 71. The lower frame 70 shown in Figure 14 represents the frame that supports the sheet cassettes 11a to 11c (sheet storage section) as a unit in the first embodiment of the image forming apparatus A shown in Figure 1. 【0116】 In other words, in the frame 100 including the right support column 71R, left support column 71L, and support stay 76 mentioned above, the protruding portion 761a of the support stay 76 is not connected to either the upper positioning hole 712d or the lower positioning hole 712d, and the contact portion 761c of the support stay 76 is not connected to either the upper support plate 716 or the lower support plate 716. 【0117】 In the first configuration of the image forming apparatus A shown in Figure 1, the sheet cassettes 11a to 11c, as units, are units of the same size. 【0118】 Guide rails 77a, 77b, and 77c are positioned and fixed to the right outer support column 711 and the lower rear side plate 72. 【0119】 Guide rails 77d, 77e, and 77f are positioned and fixed to the left outer support column 713 and the lower rear side plate 72. 【0120】 Guide rails 77c and 77f support and guide the insertion and removal of the sheet cassette 11a. 【0121】 Guide rails 77b and 77e support and guide the insertion and removal of the sheet cassette 11b. 【0122】 Guide rails 77a and 77d support and guide the insertion and removal of the sheet cassette 11c. 【0123】 In the first embodiment of the image forming apparatus A shown in Figure 1, the guide rail 77g is not required, and therefore the support stay 76 is not installed. 【0124】 As described above, this embodiment provides a frame 100 that allows for the assembly of support stays 76 at multiple locations on the right support column 71R and the left support column 71L. Furthermore, since the first part of the support stay 76 is connected to the right support column 71R by movement in the left-right direction, and the second part is connected to the left support column 71L by movement in the up-down direction, it is possible to assemble and detach it at multiple locations on the support columns. This makes it possible to accommodate image forming apparatuses with different arrangements of sheet cassettes (units). 【0125】 Furthermore, for image forming apparatuses with different sheet cassette arrangements, manufacturing control can be easily managed for variations in sheet cassette arrangement without requiring multiple types of frames. 【0126】 Furthermore, even when reusing the frame, the disassembly and assembly of the connecting components becomes easier, making it an environmentally friendly solution. 【0127】 [Example 2] An image forming apparatus equipped with a frame according to Example 2 will be described. Here, other forms of methods for fixing the support stay to the support plate will be explained using Figures 15(b) to 18. 【0128】 The configuration of the frame, other than the method of fixing the support stays to the support plate, and the configuration of the image forming apparatus equipped with this frame are the same as in the embodiment described above, so their explanation will be omitted. 【0129】 The following describes the configuration of the second part of the support stay 77 connected to the right support column 71R, and the support plate 717, which serves as the third and fourth connecting parts and is configured to connect the second part of the support stay 77. 【0130】 As shown in Figure 16, the support stay 77, which serves as a connecting member, is joined to the stay base 771 and the stay reinforcing plate 772 by welding. 【0131】 The support stay 77 has a first portion that connects to the right inner support column 712 and a second portion that connects to the left inner support column 714. The first portion of the support stay 77 that connects to the right inner support column 712 has a protruding portion 771a and a tapped hole 772a. The configuration of the first portion of the support stay 77 is the same as that of the embodiment described above. 【0132】 The support stay 77 has a contact portion 771c and a fixed wall 772b with a hole 772c as a second portion that connects to the left inner support column 714. 【0133】 The contact portion 771c is the left end of the stay base 771 and is a contact portion that abuts vertically against the support plate 717 of the left inner support column 714. The fixed wall 772b is formed at the left end of the stay reinforcing plate 772 and is a wall portion erected vertically with respect to the contact portion 771c. The fixed wall 772b has a hole 772c that penetrates in the Z direction, which is perpendicular to the vertical direction. The hole 772c is a hole for inserting a screw, which is a fastening member for fixing the support stay 77 and the support plate 717 of the left inner support column 714, into the support plate 717 of the left inner support column 714. In addition, a hole 771d for inserting the retractable wall 717b of the support plate 717 is provided on the left side of the stay base 771. 【0134】 The side portion 712a of the right inner support column 712 is provided with a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion, both configured to connect to the first portion of the support stay 77, at two locations in the vertical direction (Z direction). The configuration of the first and second connecting portions of the right inner support column 712 is the same as that of the embodiment described above. 【0135】 The support stay 77 is positioned relative to the side surface 712a of the right inner support column 712 by fitting its protruding portion 771a into the positioning hole 712d, and is then fixed with screws. On the other hand, the support stay 77 can be removed from the right inner support column 712 by removing the screws and pulling the protruding portion 771a out of the positioning hole 712d to the left in the X direction, while the right support column 71R and the left support column 71L are assembled to the frame 100. In other words, the positioning hole 712d, which serves as the first and second connecting portion, is configured to release the connection between the support stay 77 and its protruding portion 771a by moving the support stay 77 to the left in the X direction. 【0136】 On the side portion 714a of the left inner support column 714, two support plates 717 are provided at two locations in the vertical direction (Z direction), which are configured to connect to the second portion of the support stay 77, serving as the third and fourth connecting portions. Figure 15(b) shows a perspective view of the support plates 717. 【0137】 The two support plates 717, which serve as the third and fourth connecting sections, are each provided with a projection 717e for positioning the support plate 717 relative to the left inner support column 714, and a hole 717f through which a screw, which is a fastening member that is screwed into the hole 714e of the left inner support column 714, passes. 【0138】 The support plate 717 is positioned relative to the side surface 714a of the left inner support column 714 by fitting its protruding portion 717e into the positioning hole 714d, and is then fixed with screws. On the other hand, the support plate 717 can be removed from the left inner support column 714 by removing the screws and pulling the protruding portion 717e out of the positioning hole 714d to the right in the X direction while the left inner support column 714 is assembled to the frame 100. In other words, the support plate 717 is configured to connect with the left inner support column 714, and is configured to release the connection with the left inner support column 714 by moving it to the right in the X direction. 【0139】 Furthermore, the support plate 717, which serves as the third connecting portion, is provided with a mounting surface 717a, which is a support portion that supports the abutment portion 771c of the support stay 77 from below in the vertical direction, and a retractable wall 717b, which is a wall portion erected vertically above (in the Z direction) from the mounting surface 717a. The retractable wall 717b has tapped holes 717d for fixing the support stay 77 with screws, which are fastening members. Furthermore, the support plate 717 has a pressing portion 717c that presses the abutment portion 771c of the support stay 77, which is supported on the mounting surface 717a, against the mounting surface 717a. The pressing portion 717c is provided on the retractable wall 717b so as to face the mounting surface 717a with a vertical gap between them. The pressing portion 717c is erected from the retractable wall 717b toward the left in the X direction and is formed at both ends in the Y direction relative to the retractable wall 717b. The retaining portion 717c is a retaining portion that presses the contact portion 771c of the support stay 77, which is supported on the mounting surface 717a, against the mounting surface 717a by connecting the retractable wall 717b to the fixed wall 772b of the support stay 77 with screws. The support plate 717 as the fourth connecting portion has a mounting surface 717a, a retractable wall 717b having tapped holes 717d, and a retaining portion 717c, similar to the third connecting portion, and is provided in a different position in the vertical direction from the third connecting portion. 【0140】 The support stay 77 is connected to the support plate 717 fixed to the left inner column 714 by moving the contact portion 771c downward and placing it on the mounting surface 717a. Furthermore, the support stay 77 is positioned and fixed by connecting the retractable wall 717b and the fixed wall 772b with screws, so that the contact portion 771c is pressed against the mounting surface 717a by the pressing portion 717c. On the other hand, the support stay 77 can be removed from the support plate 717 by removing the screws and moving the contact portion 771c upward to separate it from the mounting surface 717a while the right column 71R and the left column 71L are assembled to the frame 100. In other words, the support plate 717 is configured to release its connection with the support stay 77 by moving the support stay 77 in the vertical direction. 【0141】 Next, we will explain how to assemble the support stay 77 to the lower front frame 71. 【0142】 The support stay 77 is tilted in the same way as the support stay 76 in the previously described embodiment, so as not to interfere with the bent portion 711b of the right outer support column 711 and the bent portion 713b of the left outer support column 713, which extend inward into the device. Then, the tilted support stay 77 is inserted inside the lower front frame 71. 【0143】 The procedure for positioning and fixing the support stay 77 to the right inner support column 712 is the same as the procedure shown in Embodiment 1 above, so the explanation will be omitted. 【0144】 The procedure for fixing the support stay 77 to the support plate 717 of the left inner support column 714 will be explained using Figures 17(a), 17(b), and 18(a) to 18(c). Figure 17(b) shows the left outer support column 713 without being shown. A portion of the left inner support column 714 is also shown in a broken section. Figures 18(a) to 18(c) show the screws that fix the support plate 717 to the left inner support column 714 without being shown. 【0145】 As shown in Figure 18(a), the support stay 77 is provided with a hole 771d. The hole 771d is placed on the mounting surface 717a of the support plate 717 so as to avoid the retraction wall 717b and the retaining portion 717c. 【0146】 The left contact portion 771c of the support stay 77 is moved vertically and placed on the mounting surface 717a of the support plate 717, making the support stay 77 approximately horizontal. At this time, as shown in Figure 18(a), the hole 771d of the support stay 77 is formed so as to avoid the retractable wall 717b and the retaining portion 717c of the support plate 717, and the contact portion 771c of the support stay 77 is placed on the mounting surface 717a of the support plate 717. 【0147】 Once the support stay 77 is positioned and fixed to the right inner support column 712, the support stay 77 moves to the position shown in Figure 18(b), and the contact portion 771c of the support stay 77 slides under the pressing portion 717c of the support plate 717. 【0148】 A screw is inserted through the hole 713f in the left outer support 713, the hole 714f in the left inner support 714, and the hole 772c in the support stay 77, and then screwed into the tapped hole 717d in the support plate 717. 【0149】 By tightening the screws, the retractable wall 717b of the support plate 717 tilts to the left (left side in the left-right direction) so that it is brought closer to the fixed wall 772b of the support stay 77, as shown in Figure 18(c). 【0150】 As the retractable wall 717b tilts, the retaining portion 717c presses the contact portion 771c of the support stay 77 against the mounting surface 717a of the support plate 717 in the Z direction (downward in the vertical direction). As a result, the support stay 77 is positioned and fixed in the Z direction relative to the support plate 717 of the right inner column 712. 【0151】 In this embodiment as well, the same effects as in the previously described embodiment can be obtained. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the screws that fix the support stay 77 can be assembled from the outside of the lower front frame 71, thereby improving the workability of assembly. 【0152】 [Other examples] In the above-described embodiment, a configuration was shown in which connecting parts of the support column, which are configured to connect to the first and second parts of the support stay, are provided at two locations in the vertical direction of the support column. However, the number and location of the connecting parts are not limited to this, and a configuration with three or more connecting parts is also acceptable. 【0153】 Furthermore, while screws were used as an example of fastening members in the embodiments described above, the invention is not limited to screws. 【0154】 Furthermore, in the embodiments described above, a sheet cassette (sheet storage unit) was exemplified as a unit supported by a frame, but the invention is not limited thereto. For example, an image forming apparatus may be provided with an image forming unit (image forming unit) supported by a frame and configured to form an image. Similarly, an image forming apparatus was exemplified as an apparatus equipped with a frame, but the invention is not limited thereto. For example, a sheet storage apparatus may be provided with a sheet storage unit such as a sheet cassette supported by a frame and configured to store sheets. Alternatively, a sheet transport apparatus may be provided with a sheet transport unit such as a transport unit supported by a frame and configured to transport sheets. Alternatively, a sheet processing apparatus may be provided with a sheet processing unit such as a binding processing unit supported by a frame and configured to process sheets. Similar effects can be obtained by applying the present invention to the frame of these apparatuses. 【0155】 Furthermore, although a printer was used as an example of an image forming apparatus in the embodiments described above, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, other image forming apparatuses such as photocopiers and facsimile machines, or other image forming apparatuses such as multifunction devices that combine these functions, may also be used. Alternatively, an image forming apparatus that uses a recording material carrier and sequentially overlays and transfers toner images of each color onto the recording material carried on the recording material carrier may also be used. Similar effects can be obtained by applying the present invention to the frame of these image forming apparatuses. 【0156】 Furthermore, while the electrophotographic method was used as an example of the recording method in the embodiments described above, the method is not limited to this, and other recording methods such as the inkjet method may also be used. [Explanation of symbols] 【0157】 A...Image forming apparatus 10 ...Image forming unit 20 ... Supply unit 50... Upper frame 70... Lower frame 71 ... Lower front frame 71L…Left pillar 71R…Right pillar 72... Lower rear side panel 73…Bottom plate 74 ... Reinforcement plate 76, 77 ... Support stays 100…Frame 711...Right outer column 712 ... Right inner support column 712a...side part 712b, 712c ...bent section 712d ... Positioning hole 712e…hole 713…Left outer pillar 714…Left inner column 714a…side part 714b, 714c ...bent section 714d ... Positioning hole 714e…hole 715... Stay 716,717…Support plate 716a, 717a ... Mounting surface 716b ... Tapped hole 716e,717e…Protrusion 716f,717f…hole 717b ... recessed wall 717c ...Pressing part 717d ... tapped hole 761,771 ... Stay base 761a,771a...Protruding part 761b…hole 761c,771c…Contact part 762,772 ... Reinforcement plate 762a, 772a ... tapped holes 771d…hole 772b…Fixed wall 772c…hole

Claims

[Claim 1] First member and The second member and A frame comprising a connecting member having a first portion that connects to the first member and a second portion that connects to the second member, The first member includes a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion, each configured to connect to the first portion of the connecting member, The second member includes a third connecting portion and a fourth connecting portion, each configured to connect to the second portion of the connecting member, At least the second connecting portion is not connected to any of the members that make up the frame. At least the fourth connecting portion is not connected to any of the members that make up the frame. A frame characterized by the following features. [Claim 2] The first portion of the connecting member is connected to the first connecting portion. The second portion of the connecting member is connected to the third connecting portion. The frame according to feature 1. [Claim 3] The first member and the second member each extend along the vertical direction, Each of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion is configured such that the first portion of the connecting member abuts against the side surface of the first member along the vertical direction, Each of the third and fourth connecting portions has a support portion against which the vertical lower surface of the second portion of the connecting member abuts. The frame according to feature 1. [Claim 4] The first member and the second member each extend along the first direction, The first connecting portion and the second connecting portion are configured to release the connection between the connecting member and the first portion of the connecting member by moving the connecting member in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The third and fourth connecting portions are configured to release the connection between the connecting member and the second portion of the connecting member by moving the connecting member in the first direction. The frame according to feature 1. [Claim 5] The first member and the second member each extend along the first direction, The first connecting portion and the second connecting portion have positioning holes for inserting the first portion of the connecting member in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The frame according to feature 1. [Claim 6] The first connecting portion and the second connecting portion have tapped holes for fixing the first portion with a fastening member. The frame according to feature 1. [Claim 7] The first member and the second member each extend along the first direction, The first connecting portion and the second connecting portion are A positioning hole for inserting the first portion of the connecting member in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, The first portion has tapped holes for fastening with fastening members, The frame according to feature 1. [Claim 8] The first member and the second member each extend along the vertical direction, The third and fourth connecting portions each have a support portion that supports the second portion of the connecting member from below in the vertical direction. The frame according to feature 1. [Claim 9] The third and fourth connecting portions have tapped holes for fixing the second portion of the connecting member with a fastening member. The frame according to feature 1. [Claim 10] The first member and the second member each extend along the vertical direction, The third connecting portion and the fourth connecting portion are A support portion that supports the second portion of the connecting member from below in the vertical direction, The connecting member has a tapped hole for fixing the second portion with a fastening member, The frame according to feature 1. [Claim 11] The first member and the second member each extend along the vertical direction, The third and fourth connecting portions are, A support portion that supports the second portion of the connecting member from below in the vertical direction, A wall portion erected vertically above the support portion, The wall portion has a pressing portion that is provided on the wall portion so as to be opposite to the support portion with a gap between them, The wall portion is provided with tapped holes for fixing the connecting member with a fastening member. The wall portion is connected to the connecting member and the fastening member, so that the pressing portion presses the second portion of the connecting member, which is supported by the support portion, against the support portion. The frame according to feature 1. [Claim 12] As the second member and the support portion move relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction, the connection between the third connecting portion and the fourth connecting portion and the second member is released. The frame according to feature 8. [Claim 13] As the second member and the support portion move relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction, the connection between the third connecting portion and the fourth connecting portion and the second member is released. The frame according to feature 11. [Claim 14] If the aforementioned frame supports the first unit, The first portion of the connecting member is connected to the first connecting portion, and no member constituting the frame is connected to the second connecting portion. The second portion of the connecting member is connected to the third connecting portion, and no member constituting the frame is connected to the fourth connecting portion. If the frame supports a second unit of a different size from the first unit, The first portion of the connecting member is connected to the second connecting portion, and no member constituting the frame is connected to the first connecting portion. The second portion of the connecting member is connected to the fourth connecting portion, and no member constituting the frame is connected to the third connecting portion. The frame according to feature 1. [Claim 15] First member and The second member and A frame comprising a connecting member that connects the first member and the second member, With the first member and the second member assembled to the frame, the connecting member is removed from the frame. A frame characterized by the following features. [Claim 16] First member and A second member is provided, A frame to which a connecting member having a first portion that connects to the first member and a second portion that connects to the second member is attached, The first member includes a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion, each configured to connect to the first portion of the connecting member, The second member includes a third connecting portion and a fourth connecting portion, each configured to connect to the second portion of the connecting member, At least the second connecting portion is not connected to any of the members that make up the frame. At least the fourth connecting portion is not connected to any of the members that make up the frame. A frame characterized by the following features. [Claim 17] A sheet storage device comprising a frame according to any one of claims 1 to 15, and a sheet storage section supported by the frame and configured to accommodate a sheet. [Claim 18] A sheet conveying device comprising a frame according to any one of claims 1 to 15, and a sheet conveying unit supported by the frame and configured to convey a sheet. [Claim 19] A sheet processing apparatus comprising a frame according to any one of claims 1 to 15, and a sheet processing unit supported by the frame and configured to process a sheet. [Claim 20] An image forming apparatus comprising a frame according to any one of claims 1 to 15, and an image forming unit supported by the frame and configured to form an image.

Images