Cassette retracting device

Abstract

To provide a cassette pull-in device capable of achieving smooth insertion of a paper cassette by reducing the burden of a user.SOLUTION: A cassette pull-in device includes a guide part, a first member, a second member, a first rotating shaft, a first link, a second rotating shaft, a second link, and a rib. The guide part guides a pin projecting from a paper cassette. The first member is formed with the guide part. The second member opposes to the first member. The first link is rotatingly supported at the first rotating shaft. The second rotating shaft is provided at the first link. The second link is rotatingly supported at the second rotating shaft. The second link has an engagement groove. The engagement groove engages with the pin in a first direction and slides with the pin in such a direction as to cross a moving direction of the pin. The rib is provided on one side or both sides of the first member and the second member. The rib slides with a side face the second link within a moving range of the second link accompanied by the rotation of the first link around the first rotating shaft.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE An embodiment of the present invention relates to a cassette retraction device. [Background technology]

[0002] The main body of an image forming apparatus or an image processing apparatus may be provided with a cassette retracting device that retracts a paper feed cassette. The cassette retracting device reduces the insertion force required by a user when inserting a paper feed cassette. The cassette retraction device has a link that moves with a pin on the paper feed cassette. If the resistance to movement of the link is large, the user may need to exert a large insertion force. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2011-37540 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] An object of the present invention is to provide a cassette pull-in device that can smoothly insert a paper feed cassette while reducing the burden on the user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The cassette retraction device of the embodiment has a guide portion, a first member, a second member, a first rotating shaft, a first link, a second rotating shaft, a second link, and a rib. The guide portion guides the position of a pin protruding in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction from a paper feed cassette provided so as to be insertable and detachable in the first direction, in a third direction perpendicular to the first and second directions, when the paper feed cassette is inserted or removed. The first member has a guide portion formed thereon. The second member is fixed to the first member. The second member faces the first member in the first direction. The first rotating shaft is provided between the first member and the second member. The first rotating shaft has a length from the second member toward the first member in the first direction. The first link is rotatably supported by the first rotating shaft. The second rotating shaft is provided on the first link. The second rotating shaft has a length in a direction facing the first member in the first direction. The second link is rotatably supported by the second rotating shaft. The second link has an engagement groove. The engagement groove engages with the pin in a first direction and slides with the pin in a direction intersecting the moving direction of the pin. The rib is provided on one or both of the first member and the second member. The rib protrudes in the first direction toward the second link. The rib slides with a side surface of the second link within a moving range of the second link accompanying rotation of the first link about the first rotation axis. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of an image processing device according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing a paper feed cassette in the image processing apparatus. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of a cassette pulling device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] 3 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of a first member in the cassette pulling device of the embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 5] Schematic diagram of view A in Figure 4. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a cross section taken along line BB in FIG. 3. [Figure 7] An enlarged view of part C in FIG. [Figure 8] An enlarged view of part D in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line EE in FIG. [Figure 10] Schematic diagram of a cross section taken along line FF in FIG. 3. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of part G in FIG. [Figure 12] An enlarged view of part H in FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing an internal configuration of the cassette pull-in device according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] Schematic diagram of view I in Figure 13. [Figure 15] 4 is a schematic front view of a second member in the cassette retracting device according to the embodiment; FIG. [Figure 16] An enlarged view of part J in FIG. [Figure 17] An enlarged view of part K in FIG. [Figure 18] 3A and 3B are schematic perspective views showing examples of a first link and a second link in the cassette retraction device of the embodiment. [Figure 19] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of the cassette pull-in device according to the embodiment. [Figure 20] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of the cassette pull-in device according to the embodiment. [Figure 21] 5A to 5C are schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of the cassette pull-in device according to the embodiment. [Figure 22] 5A and 5B are schematic perspective views illustrating the operation of the cassette pulling device according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0007] Hereinafter, a cassette retracting device according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following drawings, the same or corresponding components are denoted by the same reference numerals unless otherwise specified. FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of an image processing device according to an embodiment.

[0008] The cassette pull-in device of this embodiment is installed in, for example, an image processing device 100 shown in FIG. The image processing device 100 forms an image on a sheet. The image processing device 100 may be, for example, an image forming device such as a multifunction printer (MFP), a printer, a copier, etc. The image processing device 100 may perform image processing on the image formed on the sheet. As an example of image processing using the image processing device 100, there is a process of erasing an image formed with decolorizing toner by heating, etc. The image processing device 100 has a control panel unit 12 , a display 11 , an image forming unit 13 , an image reading unit 14 , a device main body 15 , and a paper storage unit 16 .

[0009] The control panel unit 12 and the display 11 are used by the user to perform operational inputs to operate the image processing device 100. The display 11 displays the contents of operations performed by the user and messages for the user. The image forming unit 13 forms an image on a sheet based on an operation input or an external signal. The image reading unit 14 reads an original document and forms an image signal for an image to be formed by the image forming unit 13 . The device body 15 is a housing that houses therein the display 11, the control panel section 12, the image forming section 13, the image reading section 14, and the paper storage section 16. The outer surface of the device body 15 is covered with a cover.

[0010] The paper storage unit 16 is disposed in a space SL at the bottom of the device body 15. The paper storage unit 16 has paper feed cassettes 17. In the example shown in Fig. 1, three paper feed cassettes 17 are provided. Each paper feed cassette 17 can be pulled out to the front side of the device body 15.

[0011] Hereinafter, relative positions in the image processing device 100 may be described with reference to the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis shown in the drawings. The X-axis is an axis extending from the rear side to the front side of the image processing device 100. The Y-axis is perpendicular to the X-axis in the horizontal plane. The Y-axis extends from the left side to the right side of the image processing device 100. The Z-axis is perpendicular to the X-axis and Y-axis. The Z-axis is a vertical line. The direction along the X-axis is defined as the X-axis direction. In the X-axis direction, the direction from the rear to the front is the X-axis positive direction, and the direction from the front to the rear is the X-axis negative direction. In the Y-axis direction, the direction from the left to the right is the Y-axis positive direction, and the direction from the right to the left is the Y-axis negative direction. In the Z-axis direction, the direction from the bottom to the top is the Z-axis positive direction, and the direction from the top to the bottom is the Z-axis negative direction. A plane with a normal in the X-axis direction is a YZ plane, a plane with a normal in the Y-axis direction is a ZX plane, and a plane with a normal in the Z-axis direction is an XY plane. The XY plane is a horizontal plane. Unless otherwise specified, the shapes of components within the image processing device 100 are described based on the positions and orientations of the components when placed in the image processing device 100.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing a paper feed cassette in the image processing apparatus. The shapes of the paper feed cassettes 17 in the paper storage unit 16 are similar to one another. One of the paper feed cassettes 17 constituting the paper storage unit 16 is shown in FIG. Inside the rear side of the device body 15, an inner plate 101 and a cassette retracting device 20 are arranged. The inner plate 101 is parallel to the YZ plane. An introduction hole 102 is formed in the inner plate 101. The introduction hole 102 penetrates the inner plate 101. When viewed from the front side, the shape of the introduction hole 102 is, for example, substantially rectangular. When the paper feed cassette 17 is inserted into the device body 15, the introduction hole 102 allows a part of the paper feed cassette 17 to pass through.

[0013] The shape of the sheet feed cassette 17 is a box that opens upward. The sheet feed cassette 17 has a bottom plate 171, a front plate 172, a right side plate 173, a left side plate 174, and a rear plate 175. The bottom plate 171 is a rectangular plate on which the paper P is placed. The bottom plate 171 is disposed horizontally. The front plate 172 protrudes upward along the end of the bottom plate 171 in the positive direction of the X-axis. A handle 1721 for a user to hold is provided in the center of the front panel 172. The right side plate 173 protrudes upward along the end of the bottom plate 171 in the positive Y-axis direction. The left side plate 174 protrudes upward along the end of the bottom plate 171 in the negative Y-axis direction. The rear plate 175 protrudes upward along the end of the bottom plate 171 in the negative X-axis direction.

[0014] Paper sheets P, indicated by a two-dot chain line, are stacked vertically on the top of bottom plate 171. A stack of paper sheets Ps having a stacking height lower than the protruding heights of front plate 172, right plate 173, left plate 174, and rear plate 175 can be placed in paper feed cassette 17.

[0015] A right rear end beam 176 protrudes in the negative direction of the X axis from the right end of the rear plate 175. A left rear end beam 177 protrudes in the negative direction of the X axis from the left end of the rear plate 175. The right rear end beam 176 and the left rear end beam 177 are shaped, for example, as prisms whose cross sections parallel to the YZ plane are rectangular. The right rear end beam 176 is formed in a size and position that allows it to be inserted into the introduction hole 102 . A damper 18 is provided at the left end of the rear plate 175 near the left rear end beam 177. The damper 18 abuts against the inner plate 101 when the paper feed cassette 17 is inserted, absorbing the impact caused by the insertion.

[0016] The device body 15 is formed with insertion guides that support the left and right ends of the paper feed cassette 17. The right rear end beam 176 and the left rear end beam 177 are inserted into the insertion guides provided in the device body 15 when the paper feed cassette 17 is inserted into the device body 15. A guide protrusion that can move along the insertion guide, similar to the right rear end beam 176, protrudes in the positive direction of the Y axis on the right side surface of the right side plate 173. A guide protrusion that can move along the insertion guide similarly to the left rear end beam 177 protrudes in the negative Y-axis direction on the left side surface of the left side plate 174.

[0017] According to the above-mentioned configuration, the sheet feed cassette 17 can be inserted into or pulled out from the device body 15 in a first direction Da along the X-axis along an insertion guide in the device body 15. The first direction Da is an example of an insertion / removal direction for inserting and removing the sheet feed cassette 17. When the paper feed cassette 17 is inserted into the inside of the device body 15 , the right rear end beam 176 passes through the inside of the introduction hole 102 and moves to the rear side of the inner plate 101 . A cassette side link 178 is provided at the end of the right rear end beam 176 in the Y-axis negative direction. The cassette side link 178 is supported by the right rear end beam 176 so as to be rotatable along the ZX plane. A pin 179 protruding from the cassette side link 178 in the negative direction of the Y axis is provided at the end opposite to the end rotatably supported in the cassette side link 178 . The pin 179 is a retraction end PA that exerts a force to retract the sheet feed cassette 17 from the cassette retraction device 20 in the negative direction of the X axis when engaged with the cassette retraction device 20 . The cassette side link 178 and the pin 179 are formed in a shape that allows them to pass through the introduction hole 102 together with the right rear end beam 176 .

[0018] When the sheet cassette 17 is inserted into the device body 15 in the first direction Da, the cassette retracting device 20 retracts the sheet cassette 17 in the negative direction of the X axis through the retracting end PA. The cassette retracting device 20 is disposed on the rear side of the inner plate 101. The position of the cassette retracting device 20 in the Y-axis direction is such that a part of it in the Y-axis positive direction overlaps with the inside of the introduction hole 102 when viewed from the front. However, the end of the cassette retracting device 20 in the Y-axis positive direction is disposed in a position that does not interfere with the right rear end beam 176 moving in and out of the introduction hole 102.

[0019] FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of a cassette retracting device according to an embodiment. 3, the cassette retracting device 20 has an outer shape of a substantially rectangular parallelepiped that is thin in the Y-axis direction. The first member 21 is a cover that covers the second member 22 from the right side. The first member 21 is box-shaped and opens in the negative Y-axis direction. The first member 21 has a surface portion S, a front plate 2110 , an upper plate 2111 , a rear plate 2112 , and a lower plate 2113 .

[0020] The surface portion S forms the surface in the positive Y-axis direction of the first member 21. The outer shape of the surface portion S when viewed from the negative Y-axis direction is substantially rectangular. The surface portion S includes a plurality of plate surface portions that are parallel to the ZX plane and have different positions in the Y-axis direction. The plate surface portions that are adjacent to each other in the X-axis direction or the Z-axis direction and have different positions in the Y-axis direction are connected to each other by a step portion having a length in the Y-axis direction. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the surface portion S has a first plate surface portion 2101, a second plate surface portion 2102, a third plate surface portion 2103, and a plurality of screw fixing portions 2104.

[0021] The first plate surface portion 2101 is the plate surface portion located furthest in the Y-axis positive direction on the front surface portion S. The first plate surface portion 2101 faces a side surface of the right rear end beam 176 (see FIG. 2) when inserted into the introduction hole 102. The second plate surface portion 2102 is formed on the upper end side of the first plate surface portion 2101 at a position recessed from the first plate surface portion 2101 in the negative Y-axis direction. The third plate surface portion 2103 is formed at an end portion in the negative X-axis direction of the first plate surface portion 2101, at a position recessed in the negative Y-axis direction. The multiple screw fixing portions 2104 are plate surfaces for screwing the first member 21 to the second member 22 with the screws 45. In the example shown in Fig. 3, the multiple screw fixing portions 2104 are provided at three locations on the surface portion S: the upper and lower ends of the end in the positive X-axis direction, and the end in the negative X-axis direction.

[0022] The front plate 2110, the upper plate 2111, the rear plate 2112, and the lower plate 2113 protrude in the negative direction of the Y axis from the front, upper, rear, and lower outer periphery of the surface portion S. The front plate 2110, the upper plate 2111, the rear plate 2112, and the lower plate 2113 cover the outer periphery of the second member 22. The front plate 2110 is fixed to the inner plate 101 while being in contact with the rear surface of the inner plate 101 .

[0023] The detailed configuration of the first member 21 will be described. Fig. 4 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of a first member in the cassette pulling device of the embodiment, Fig. 5 is a schematic view taken along line A in Fig. 4 .

[0024] As shown in FIG. 4, the first plate surface portion 2101 is formed with a guide portion 2114 that guides the pin 179 (see FIG. 3) in the Z-axis direction when the paper feed cassette 17 is inserted or pulled out. The guide portion 2114 is a through hole that has a length in the X-axis direction from the end of the first plate surface portion 2101 in the X-axis positive direction and has a width slightly wider than the outer diameter of the pin 179 in the Z-axis direction. A rear end 2115, which is the end of the guide portion 2114 in the negative X-axis direction, has a gentle incline toward the positive Z-axis direction as it progresses in the negative X-axis direction when viewed from the negative Y-axis direction. A guide groove 2116 that opens into the front plate 2110 is formed at the end of the guide portion 2114 in the positive direction of the X-axis. The groove width in the Z-axis direction of the guide groove 2116 gradually decreases from a first width wider than the outer diameter of the pin 179 to a second width the same as that of the guide portion 2114 as it moves from the surface of the front plate 2110 in the negative X-axis direction. The guide groove 2116 regulates the position in the Z-axis direction of the pin 179 inserted into the introduction hole 102, and guides the pin 179 toward the guide portion 2114 as the pin 179 moves in the negative X-axis direction.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 5, the second plate surface portion 2102 has a shaft support portion 2106 formed as a circular hole penetrating therethrough in the thickness direction. A shaft support portion 2107 consisting of a circular hole penetrates the third plate surface portion 2103 in the thickness direction. Each screw fixing portion 2104 has a screw insertion hole 2108 penetrating therethrough in the thickness direction, through which a screw 45 (see FIG. 3) is inserted.

[0026] The second plate surface portion 2102 is provided with an arc-shaped rib Re that is concentric with the center of the shaft support portion 2106 when viewed from the positive direction of the Y axis. A lubricant retaining portion ge is formed in the center of the rib Re in the thickness direction along the longitudinal direction of the rib Re. Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram of a cross section taken along line BB in Fig. 3. Fig. 7 is an enlarged view of part C in Fig. 6. As shown in FIG. 6, the rib Re protrudes from the second plate surface portion 2102 in the negative direction of the Y axis. 7, the lubricant retaining portion ge is a groove recessed in the positive direction of the Y axis at the tip of the rib Re. The lubricant retaining portion ge is filled with a lubricant 44. The groove shape of the lubricant holding portion ge is not particularly limited as long as it can hold the lubricant 44. In the example shown in Fig. 7, the groove shape of the lubricant holding portion ge is rectangular. For example, the groove width of the lubricant holding portion ge may be about 1 mm. For example, the groove depth of the lubricant holding portion ge may be 0.5 mm or more and 1 mm or less. There is no particular limitation on the type of lubricant 44 as long as it can be held in the lubricant holding portion ge. For example, the lubricant 44 may be oil, grease, solid lubricant, or the like having an appropriate viscosity.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 6, the surface of the first plate surface portion 2101 in the negative Y-axis direction is located further in the positive Y-axis direction than the tip of the rib Re. As shown in FIG. 5, the surface of the first plate surface portion 2101 facing in the negative Y-axis direction is formed with arc-shaped lubricant retaining portions Ga, Gb, and Gc that are concentric with the center of the shaft support portion 2106 when viewed in the positive Y-axis direction. The radii of the circles along which the lubricant retaining portions Ga, Gc, and Gb extend are larger in this order. The radii of the circles along which the lubricant retaining portions Ga, Gc, and Gb extend are all larger than the radius of the circle along which the rib Re extends. The lubricant retaining portions Ga and Gb are located below the rib Re when viewed from the positive direction of the Y axis. A guide portion 2114 is located between the lubricant retaining portions Ga and Gb. The lubricant retaining portion Gc is located above the guide portion 2114 at the end of the first plate surface portion 2101 in the positive direction of the X-axis.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 6, the lubricant retaining portions Ga and Gb are grooves recessed in the positive direction of the Y axis from the surface of the first plate surface portion 2101 in the negative direction of the Y axis. FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of part D in FIG. 8, the lubricant holding portions Ga and Gb are each filled with a lubricant 44, similar to the lubricant holding portion ge. The groove shape of the lubricant holding portions Ga and Gb is not particularly limited as long as it can hold the lubricant 44. For example, the groove shape of the lubricant holding portions Ga and Gb is rectangular, similar to the lubricant holding portion ge.

[0029] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line EE in FIG. 9, the lubricant holding portion Gc, like the lubricant holding portions Ga and Gb, is a groove recessed in the positive direction of the Y-axis from the surface of the first plate surface portion 2101 in the negative direction of the Y-axis. Like the lubricant holding portion ge, the lubricant holding portion Gc is filled with the lubricant 44. The groove shape of the lubricant holding portion Gc is not particularly limited as long as it can hold the lubricant 44. For example, the groove shape of the lubricant holding portion Gc is rectangular, like the lubricant holding portion ge.

[0030] 5, the first plate surface portion 2101 is formed with arc-shaped ribs Rf and Rg that are concentric with the center of the shaft support portion 2107 when viewed from the positive direction of the Y axis. The rib Rf is located above the shaft support portion 2107. The rib Rg is located below the shaft support portion 2107. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a cross section taken along line FF in FIG. 10, the ribs Rf, Rg protrude in the negative Y-axis direction from the first plate surface portion 2101. The tips of the ribs Rf, Rg protrude in the negative Y-axis direction beyond the third plate surface portion 2103. The tips of the ribs Rf, Rg are positioned in the same position in the Y-axis direction.

[0031] As shown in FIG. 5, a lubricant retaining portion gf is formed in the center of the rib Rf in the thickness direction along the longitudinal direction of the rib Rf. A lubricant retaining portion gg is formed in the center of the thickness direction of the rib Rg along the longitudinal direction of the rib Rg.

[0032] Fig. 11 is an enlarged view of a portion G in Fig. 10. Fig. 12 is an enlarged view of a portion H in Fig. 10. 11, the lubricant retaining portion gf is a groove recessed in the negative direction of the Y axis at the tip of the rib Rf. The lubricant retaining portion gf is filled with the lubricant 44, similar to the lubricant retaining portion ge. 12, the lubricant retaining portion gg is a groove recessed in the negative direction of the Y axis at the tip of the rib Rg. The lubricant retaining portion gg is filled with the lubricant 44, similar to the lubricant retaining portion ge. The groove shape of the lubricant retaining portions gf, gg is not particularly limited as long as it can retain the lubricant 44. For example, the groove shape of the lubricant retaining portions gf, gg is rectangular like the lubricant retaining portion ge.

[0033] The shape of the second member 22 will be described together with the internal structure of the cassette retracting device 20. Fig. 13 is a schematic perspective view showing the internal configuration of the cassette retracting device of the embodiment. Fig. 14 is a schematic view seen from I in Fig. 13. Figs. 13 and 14 show the cassette retracting device 20 with the first member 21 removed.

[0034] 13, the cassette retraction device 20 has therein a first rotating shaft 41, a first link 23, a second rotating shaft 42, a second link 24, a third rotating shaft 43, a third link 25, a first elastic member 26, and a second elastic member 27. The second rotating shaft 42 is fixed to the first link 23.

[0035] FIG. 15 is a schematic front view of a second member in the cassette pulling device according to the embodiment. 15, the outer shape of the second member 22 is substantially rectangular when viewed from the negative direction of the Y axis. As shown in Fig. 3, when the first member 21 is attached, the second member 22 is surrounded from the outside by a front plate 2110, an upper plate 2111, a rear plate 2112, and a lower plate 2113 of the first member 21. As shown in FIG. 15, the second member 22 has a first support plate 2201 , a second support plate 2220 , a first base portion 2202 , a second base portion 2203 , a third base portion 2204 , and a fourth base portion 2205 .

[0036] The first support plate 2201 and the second support plate 2220 are flat plates parallel to the ZX plane. The first support plate 2201 forms the upper half of the second member 22. The second support plate 2220 forms the lower half of the second member 22. As shown in FIG. 6, the position of the second support plate 2220 in the Y-axis direction is slightly shifted in the positive direction of the Y-axis from the position of the first support plate 2201. The first support plate 2201 and the second support plate 2220 are connected to each other via a step portion at the middle portion of the second member 22 in the Z-axis direction. A shaft support portion 2206 is formed at the end portion in the positive direction of the Z axis of the first support plate 2201. The shaft support portion 2206 is formed at a position facing the shaft support portion 2106 of the first member 21, and is a hole recessed in the negative direction of the Y axis from the first support plate 2201. The shaft support portion 2206 holds the end portion in the negative direction of the Y axis of the first rotating shaft 41. The shaft support portion 2206 has a through hole 2213 formed in the center thereof, through which the screw 45 is inserted.

[0037] The first rotating shaft 41 is generally cylindrical, and has an engagement portion 411 at its end in the Y-axis negative direction that fits into the shaft support portion 2206 to prevent rotation. The shape of the engagement portion 411 is not particularly limited as long as it is a shape that can prevent rotation relative to the shaft support portion 2206. For example, the engagement portion 411 may be a plate that is thinner than the outer diameter of the first rotating shaft 41, a shaft with a D-shaped cross section, or the like. The first rotating shaft 41 held by the shaft support portion 2206 is fixed to the first support plate 2201 by a screw 45 inserted into the shaft support portion 2206 from the surface of the first support plate 2201 facing the negative Y-axis direction. The tip end of the first rotating shaft 41 fixed to the shaft support portion 2206 is fitted into the shaft support portion 2106 of the first member 21 .

[0038] 15, the first support plate 2201 is formed with an arc-shaped rib Rb that is concentric with the center of the shaft support portion 2206 when viewed from the positive direction of the Y axis. A lubricant retaining portion gb is formed in the center of the rib Rb in the thickness direction along the longitudinal direction of the rib Rb. As shown in FIG. 6, the rib Rb protrudes from the first support plate 2201 in the positive direction of the Y axis. FIG. 16 is an enlarged view of part J in FIG. 16, the lubricant retaining portion gb is a groove recessed in the negative direction of the Y axis at the tip of the rib Rb. The lubricant retaining portion gb is filled with the lubricant 44, similar to the lubricant retaining portion ge of the first member 21. The groove shape of the lubricant retaining portion gb is not particularly limited as long as it can retain the lubricant 44. For example, the groove shape of the lubricant retaining portion gb is rectangular, similar to the lubricant retaining portion ge of the first member 21.

[0039] 15, the first base portion 2202 straddles the first support plate 2201 and the second support plate 2220 at the middle portion in the Z-axis direction of the second member 22, and protrudes in the positive direction of the Y-axis. The first base portion 2202 forms a flat portion parallel to the ZX plane. The protruding height of the first base portion 2202 is higher than the rib Rb. The first base portion 2202 has a first portion Pa and a second portion Pb. The first portion Pa has an arc shape along a concentric circle about the center of the shaft support portion 2206 when viewed from the negative Y-axis direction, and is formed outside the rib Rb. The second portion Pb has a round shape when viewed from the negative Y-axis direction, and is formed at the end of the first support plate 2201 in the negative X-axis direction. The second portion Pb is connected to the end of the first portion Pa in the negative X-axis direction.

[0040] An arc-shaped rib Ra is formed on an edge of the first portion Pa in the negative Z-axis direction, which is concentric with the center of the shaft support portion 2206 when viewed from the negative Y-axis direction. A lubricant retaining portion ga is formed in the center of the rib Ra in the thickness direction along the longitudinal direction of the rib Ra. As shown in FIG. 6, the rib Ra protrudes from the first portion Pa in the positive direction of the Y axis. FIG. 17 is an enlarged view of a portion K in FIG. 17, the lubricant retaining portion ga is a groove recessed in the negative direction of the Y axis at the tip of the rib Ra. The lubricant retaining portion ga is filled with the lubricant 44, similar to the lubricant retaining portion gb. The groove shape of the lubricant retaining portion ga is not particularly limited as long as it can retain the lubricant 44. For example, the groove shape of the lubricant retaining portion ga is rectangular, similar to the lubricant retaining portion gb.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 15, a shaft support portion 2207 is formed in the center of the second portion Pb. 10, the shaft support portion 2207 is formed at a position facing the shaft support portion 2107 of the first member 21, and is a hole recessed in the negative Y-axis direction from the second portion Pb. The shaft support portion 2207 holds the end portion of the third rotating shaft 43 in the negative Y-axis direction. The shaft support portion 2207 has a through hole 2214 formed in the center thereof, through which the screw 45 is inserted.

[0042] The third rotating shaft 43 has a cylindrical shape as a whole, and has an engagement portion 431 at the end in the negative Y-axis direction that fits into the shaft support portion 2206 to prevent rotation. The shape of the engagement portion 431 is not particularly limited as long as it is a shape that can prevent rotation with respect to the shaft support portion 2206. For example, the engagement portion 431 may have the same shape as the engagement portion 411 of the first rotating shaft 41. The third rotating shaft 43 held by the shaft support portion 2207 is fixed to the second portion Pb by a screw 45 inserted into the shaft support portion 2207 from the surface of the second portion Pb facing the negative Y-axis direction. The tip end of the third rotating shaft 43 fixed to the shaft support portion 2207 is fitted into the shaft support portion 2107 of the first member 21 .

[0043] 15, an arc-shaped rib Rc is formed on the edge of the second portion Pb in the positive direction of the Z axis along a concentric circle about the center of the shaft support portion 2207 when viewed from the negative direction of the Y axis. A lubricant retaining portion gc is formed in the center of the rib Rc in the thickness direction along the longitudinal direction of the rib Rc. The protruding height of the rib Rc from the first base portion 2202 is smaller than that of the rib Ra. As shown in FIG. 10, the rib Rc protrudes from the second portion Pb in the positive direction of the Y axis. 11, the lubricant retaining portion gc is a groove recessed in the negative direction of the Y axis at the tip of the rib Rc. The lubricant retaining portion gc is filled with the lubricant 44, similar to the lubricant retaining portion gb. The groove shape of the lubricant retaining portion gc is not particularly limited as long as it can retain the lubricant 44. For example, the groove shape of the lubricant retaining portion gc is rectangular, similar to that of the lubricant retaining portion gb.

[0044] 15, an arc-shaped rib Rd is formed on an edge of the second portion Pb in the negative Z-axis direction, which is concentric with the center of the shaft support portion 2207 when viewed from the negative Y-axis direction. A lubricant retaining portion gd is formed in the center of the rib Rd in the thickness direction along the longitudinal direction of the rib Rd. 10, the rib Rd protrudes from the second portion Pb in the positive direction of the Y axis. The protruding height of the rib Rd from the first base portion 2202 is equal to the protruding height of the rib Rc. 12, the lubricant retaining portion gd is a groove recessed in the negative direction of the Y axis at the tip of the rib Rd. The lubricant retaining portion gd is filled with the lubricant 44, similar to the lubricant retaining portion gb. The groove shape of the lubricant retaining portion gd is not particularly limited as long as it can retain the lubricant 44. For example, the groove shape of the lubricant retaining portion gd is rectangular, similar to that of the lubricant retaining portion gb.

[0045] 15, the second base portion 2203 protrudes in the positive direction of the Y-axis between the ends of the ribs Rb and Ra in the positive direction of the X-axis. The height of the second base portion 2203 in the positive direction of the Y-axis is higher than that of the first base portion 2202 and lower than that of the rib Ra. A first stopper 2208 protrudes from the second base portion 2203 in the positive direction of the Y axis. A first stopper 2208 restricts the rotational position of the first link 23 in the counterclockwise direction in the drawing and the position in the positive direction of the X-axis. An engagement pin 2209 that engages with the second link 24 protrudes from the tip of the first stopper 2208 in the protruding direction. The shape of the engagement pin 2209 is not particularly limited as long as it can engage with the second link 24. For example, the engagement pin 2209 is an elliptical cylinder having a major axis in the X-axis direction.

[0046] In the first support plate 2201, a second stopper 2212 protrudes in the positive direction of the Y axis between the shaft support portion 2206 and the end of the rib Rb in the negative direction of the X axis. The second stopper 2212 restricts the rotational position of the first link 23 in the clockwise direction in the drawing and the position in the negative X-axis direction.

[0047] At the end of the second support plate 2220 in the negative X-axis direction, on the negative X-axis side of the second portion Pb, a third base portion 2204 protrudes in the positive Y-axis direction. The height of the third base portion 2204 in the positive Y-axis direction relative to the first support plate 2201 is equal to the height of the second base portion 2203. The height of the third base portion 2204 is higher than the tips of the ribs Rc and Rd and lower than the tip of the rib Ra. A third stopper 2210 consisting of an inclined surface that restricts the rotation of third link 25 is formed on a side surface of third base portion 2204 facing the Z-axis positive direction in the X-axis positive direction.

[0048] At the end of the second support plate 2220 in the positive direction of the X-axis, below the rib Ra, a fourth stand portion 2205 protrudes in the positive direction of the Y-axis. The height of the fourth base portion 2205 in the positive direction of the Y axis relative to the first support plate 2201 is equal to the height of the second base portion 2203. A cylindrical second locking portion 2211 having a length in the Y axis direction is formed between the upper end of the fourth base portion 2205 and the first support plate 2201. A through hole 2216 penetrating in the Z axis direction is formed in the positive direction of the X axis of the second locking portion 2211. As shown in FIG. 13, the first hook 271 of the second elastic member 27 is engaged with the second engaging portion 2211. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 15, when viewed from the negative direction of the Y axis, a boss 2217 protrudes in the positive direction of the Y axis on the fourth base portion 2205 below the second locking portion 2211.

[0049] When the first member 21 is attached, the second base portion 2203, the third base portion 2204, and the bosses 2217 of the fourth base portion 2205 respectively come into contact with the three screw fixing portions 2104 of the first member 21. The second base portion 2203, the third base portion 2204, and the bosses 2217 of the fourth base portion 2205 each have a screw hole 2215 into which a screw 45 is screwed, at a position coaxial with the screw insertion hole 2108 formed in each screw fixing portion 2104.

[0050] 13, the first link 23 is rotatably supported by a first rotating shaft 41 fixed to the second member 22. The first link 23 has a first side wall portion 2301, a second side wall portion 2303, a second rotating shaft 42, and a connecting plate 2302.

[0051] FIG. 18 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of a first link and a second link in the cassette retraction device of the embodiment. 18, the first side wall portion 2301 and the second side wall portion 2303 are parallel to the ZX plane and are elongated flat plates in one direction. At the first end Ea of the first link 23, the first side wall portion 2301 and the second side wall portion 2303 face each other in the Y-axis direction. The first side wall portion 2301 and the second side wall portion 2303 at the first end Ea are provided with bearing portions 2309 and 2310, respectively, which are rotatably fitted onto the first rotating shaft 41. 18, the bearings 2309 and 2310 are circular holes penetrating in the thickness direction of the first side wall portion 2301 and the second side wall portion 2303. The bearings 2309 and 2310 are fitted with the first rotating shaft 41 coaxially with the central axis of the first rotating shaft 41. The first link 23 is rotatably supported by the first rotating shaft 41 at bearings 2309 and 2310 at the first end Ea.

[0052] The connecting plate 2302 connects the first side wall portion 2301 and the second side wall portion 2303 to each other so that the distance therebetween in the Y-axis direction is constant. 14, when viewed from the negative direction of the Y axis, the connecting plate 2302 forms the outer surface of the left side of the first link 23. The connecting plate 2302 is a flat plate that is parallel to the axis Aa that passes through the center of the first rotation shaft 41 and the center of the first end Ea in the ZX plane. In the following, in a direction along the axis Aa on the ZX plane, the direction moving downward from the first end Ea is defined as the Lb direction, and the opposite direction is defined as the La direction. In a direction perpendicular to the axis Aa on the ZX plane, the direction from the axis Aa toward the connecting plate 2302 is defined as the Ma direction, and the opposite direction is defined as the Mb direction. The La direction and the Lb direction are radial directions in the rotational motion of the first link 23. The Ma direction and the Mb direction are tangential directions of a rotation circle in the rotational motion of the first link 23.

[0053] At the end of the first link 23 in the Mb direction, a lower end locking portion 2308 and a second end Eb are formed. The lower end locking portion 2308 is formed by the edges of the first side wall portion 2301 and the connecting plate 2302 which are on the same plane perpendicular to the axis Aa. The second end Eb is adjacent in the Mb direction to the lower end locking portion 2308 of the first side wall portion 2301. The outer shape of the second end Eb is a U-shape that protrudes in the Lb direction further than the lower end locking portion 2308. The second end Eb is located in the Mb direction further than the axis Aa. As shown in FIG. 18, a cylindrical second rotating shaft 42 protruding in the positive direction of the Y axis is fixed to the second end Eb. As shown in FIG. 14, when viewed from the negative direction of the Y axis, the second rotating shaft 42 is disposed at a position shifted in the Mb direction with respect to the axis Aa on the ZX plane.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 18, a through hole 2306 is formed in the center of the connecting plate 2302 in the Y-axis direction, and a first engagement portion 2307 for engaging the first elastic member 26 (see FIG. 13) is formed at the lower end of the through hole 2306.

[0055] The second link 24 is disposed on the Y-axis positive side of the second end Eb of the first side wall portion 2301, and is rotatably supported by the second rotating shaft . 14 is engaged with a lower end engaging portion 2308 of the first link 23. The lower end engaging portion 2308 restricts the rotation of the second link 24 in the clockwise direction in the drawing. In the following description of the first link 23 and the second link 24, unless otherwise specified, the shape and arrangement of the second link 24 will be described in a state in which the second link 24 is engaged with the lower end engagement portion 2308 of the first link 23 and prevented from rotating clockwise as shown in FIG. 14 (hereinafter, the prevented-rotation state). In the second link 24, when the pin 179 is engaged with the engagement groove 2407, the rotatable range of the second rotating shaft 42 is narrow, so that the amount of rotation from the rotation-preventing state is small.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 18, the second link 24 has a main body portion 2401 and a protrusion portion 2402. The main body 2401 is disposed in the positive direction of the Y axis relative to the first side wall 2301. The main body 2401 is in the form of a plate sandwiched between a first side surface 2403 and a second side surface 2404, and has a thickness in the Y axis direction. Similar to the first side wall 2301, the first side surface 2403 and the second side surface 2404 are planes parallel to the ZX plane. The first side surface 2403 is located further in the positive Y-axis direction than the tip of the second rotating shaft 42 in the positive Y-axis direction.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 14, when viewed from the negative direction of the Y axis, a shaft hole 2406 into which the second rotating shaft 42 is rotatably fitted penetrates the main body 2401 in the thickness direction of the main body 2401. The main body 2401 expands from the vicinity of the shaft hole 2406 in the Ma and Lb directions. In the main body 2401, an engagement groove 2407 that is long in the Lb direction in the anti-rotation state is formed closer to the Lb direction than the shaft hole 2406. The engagement groove 2407 is recessed in the negative Y-axis direction from the first side surface 2403. The groove width and groove depth of the engagement groove 2407 are large enough to allow the pin 179 to be inserted therein. The inner surface of the engagement groove 2407 in the Mb direction is a first side wall 2408. The inner surface of the engagement groove 2407 in the Ma direction is a second side wall 2409. The first side wall 2408 and the second side wall 2409 are planes perpendicular to the ZX plane. The first side wall 2408 and the second side wall 2409 are parallel to the axis Aa in the anti-rotation state. The distance between the first side wall 2408 and the second side wall 2409 (the groove width of the engagement groove 2407 ) is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the pin 179 .

[0058] At the end of the engagement groove 2407 in the Lb direction, a lower opening Ob that opens at the outer periphery of the main body portion 2401 is formed. An upper opening Oa that opens into the inside of the main body portion 2401 is formed at the end of the second side wall 2409 in the La direction. The upper opening Oa is connected in the Ma direction to an upper guide surface 2410. The upper guide surface 2410 is a curved surface that has a length in the Ma direction as a whole and bulges slightly toward the La direction. An upper end wall 2411 is provided at the end in the La direction of the main body 2401 at a position facing the upper opening Oa. A space is formed between the upper end wall 2411 and the upper guide surface 2410, allowing the pin 179 to move along the upper guide surface 2410. A hook 2412 that curves toward the axis Aa as it advances in the La direction protrudes from the end of the main body 2401 closest to the Ma direction. Between the end of the upper guide surface 2410 in the Ma direction and the end of the second side wall 2409 in the Lb direction, an inclined surface 2413 that inclines in the Mb direction as it advances in the Lb direction is formed.

[0059] 18, the protrusion 2402 protrudes in the negative Y-axis direction from the main body 2401 beyond the first side wall 2301. A third side surface 2405 parallel to the first side surface 2403 is formed at the tip of the protrusion 2402 in the protruding direction. The outer surface of the protrusion 2402 in the La direction is provided with a curved surface 2414 that curves along the outer periphery of the second end Eb, and a locking portion 2415 that locks with the lower end locking portion 2308 of the first link 23. In a rotation-preventing state in which the locking portion 2415 is locked to the lower end locking portion 2308, the central axis of the groove width of the engagement groove 2407 is aligned with the axis Aa.

[0060] 14, third link 25 is a plate having a thickness in the Y-axis direction. When viewed from the negative Y-axis direction, third link 25 has a V-shaped external shape in which first arm 251 and second arm 252 are connected at an obtuse angle. At the center of the connection between the first arm 251 and the second arm 252, a mounting hole 255 for mounting the bearing 46 penetrates in the thickness direction. The bearing 46 is mounted in the mounting hole 255 so as to be non-rotatable. There is no particular limitation on the type of the bearing 46. For example, a plain bearing may be used as the bearing 46.

[0061] The third link 25 is attached to the third rotating shaft 43 via a bearing 46 attached to the mounting hole 255. The third link 25 is supported by the bearing 46 on the third rotating shaft 43 so as to be rotatable. The first arm 251 protrudes upward from the center of the third link 25. When the first arm 251 rotates clockwise around the third rotation shaft 43, it is stopped by the third stopper 2210, and the clockwise rotation is restricted. In a state in which the first arm 251 is engaged with the third stopper 2210, the second arm 252 has a length from the center of the third link 25 in the negative direction of the Z axis.

[0062] A locking hole 253 penetrates in the thickness direction at a first end 2511 which is the tip end of the first arm 251. A first elastic member 26 is locked in the locking hole 253. A locking hole 254 penetrates in the thickness direction at a second end 2521 which is the tip end of the second arm 252. A second elastic member 27 is locked in the locking hole 254. 10, the first end 2511 and the second end 2521 are located on a plane Sa that is shifted in the negative Y-axis direction from the first arm 251 and the second arm 252. The plane Sa passes through the center of the through hole 2306 of the first link 23 and is parallel to the ZX plane.

[0063] As shown in FIG. 13, the first elastic member 26 biases the first locking portion 2307 of the first link 23 and the first end portion 2511 of the third link 25 in directions in which they approach each other. For example, the first elastic member 26 is a tension coil spring having a first hook 261 and a second hook 262 at the ends in the longitudinal direction. The first hook 261 is engaged with the first locking portion 2307. The second hook 262 is engaged with the locking hole 253. The position at which the first elastic member 26 is engaged with the first link 23 and the third link 25 is substantially on the plane Sa, and the biasing force of the first elastic member 26 acts on the first locking portion 2307 of the first link 23 and the first end portion 2511 of the third link 25 within the substantially plane Sa. Due to the biasing force from first elastic member 26, first link 23 receives a counterclockwise force moment as viewed from the negative Y-axis direction about first rotation shaft 41. Similarly, third link 25 receives a counterclockwise force moment as viewed from the negative Y-axis direction about third rotation shaft 43.

[0064] The second elastic member 27 biases the second end 2521 of the third link 25 in a direction toward the second locking portion 2211 . For example, the second elastic member 27 is a tension coil spring having a first hook 271 and a second hook 272 at the ends in the longitudinal direction. The first hook 271 is engaged with the second engaging portion 2211. The second hook 272 is engaged with the engaging hole 254. The position at which the second elastic member 27 is engaged with the third link 25 is substantially on the plane Sa, and the biasing force of the second elastic member 27 acts on the second end 2521 of the third link 25 within the substantially plane Sa. Due to the biasing force from second elastic member 27, third link 25 receives a clockwise force moment about third rotation shaft 43 when viewed from the negative direction of the Y axis.

[0065] The arrangement of the first link 23, the second link 24, and the third link 25 within the cassette pulling device 20 will now be described. 3, when the first member 21 is fixed to the second member 22 by three screws 45, the positional relationship between the first member 21 and the second member 22 is fixed. For example, the positional relationship between the first member 21 and the second member 22 in the Y-axis direction is fixed, and an internal space with a width in the Y-axis direction determined according to the concave and convex shapes of the first member 21 and the second member 22 is formed inside the cassette retraction device 20.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 6, the first link 23 is housed between the second plate surface portion 2102 of the first member 21 and the first support plate 2201 of the second member 22. The first side wall portion 2301 of the first link 23 slidably contacts the rib Re of the first member 21. The second side wall portion 2303 of the first link 23 slidably contacts the rib Rb of the second member 22. Since the rib Re is arranged along a concentric circle centered on the first rotating shaft 41 fixed to the shaft support portion 2106, the sliding portion between the rib Re and the first side wall portion 2301 is an arc centered on the first rotating shaft 41. When the first link 23 rotates about the first rotating shaft 41, the abutting state between the first link 23 and the rib Re shown in Fig. 7 is maintained in the circumferential direction of the rotation. The sliding portion with the rib Re is lubricated by the lubricant 44 filled in the lubricant retaining portion ge. The lubricant 44 that has come out of the lubricant retaining portion ge remains in the vicinity of the lubricant retaining portion ge even when the first link 23 rotates, so that the lubricating performance is maintained for a long period of time.

[0067] Similarly, since the rib Rb is arranged along a concentric circle centered on the first rotating shaft 41 inserted into the shaft support portion 2206, the sliding portion with the rib Rb on the second side wall portion 2303 is an arc centered on the first rotating shaft 41. When the first link 23 rotates about the first rotating shaft 41, the abutting state between the first link 23 and the rib Rb shown in Fig. 16 is maintained in the circumferential direction of the rotation. The sliding portion with the rib Rb is lubricated by the lubricant 44 filled in the lubricant retaining portion gb, similar to the sliding portion with the rib Re.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 10, the third link 25 is housed between the first plate surface portion 2101 of the first member 21 and the second portion Pb of the first base portion 2202 of the second member 22. The first arm 251 of the third link 25 is sandwiched between the rib Rf of the first member 21 and the rib Rc of the first member 21, and is in slidable contact with each of them. The second arm 252 of the third link 25 is sandwiched between the rib Rg of the first member 21 and the rib Rd of the second member 22, and is in slidable contact with each of them. The ribs Rf, Rc are arranged along a concentric circle centered on the third rotating shaft 43 fixed to the shaft support portion 2207, so that the sliding portion between the ribs Rf, Rc on the first arm 251 and the sliding portion between the ribs Rg, Rd on the second arm 252 are arcs centered on the third rotating shaft 43. When the third link 25 rotates about the third rotating shaft 43, the abutment state between the third link 25 and the ribs Rf, Rc, Rg, and Rd shown in Figures 11 and 12 is maintained in the circumferential direction of the rotation. The sliding portions between the third link 25 and the ribs Rf, Rc, Rg, and Rd are lubricated by the lubricant 44 filled in the lubricant retaining portions gf, gc, gg, and gd, respectively, in the same manner as the sliding portions between the third link 25 and the ribs Re.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 6, the second link 24 is housed between the first plate surface portion 2101 of the first member 21 and the first portion Pa of the first base portion 2202 of the second member 22. A third side surface 2405 of the protrusion 2402 of the second link 24 slidably contacts the rib Ra of the second member 22. A first side surface 2403 of the main body 2401 of the second link 24 is disposed at a position overlapping at least one of the lubricant retaining portions Ga, Gb, Gc formed on the first plate surface portion 2101 of the first member 21 when viewed from the Y-axis direction. The first side surface 2403 contacts the inner surface of the first plate surface portion 2101. Since the rib Ra is arranged along a concentric circle centered on the first rotating shaft 41 fixed to the shaft support portion 2106, the sliding portion with the rib Ra on the third side surface 2405 is an arc centered on the first rotating shaft 41. When the first link 23 rotates about the first rotating shaft 41, the second link 24 rotates about the first rotating shaft 41 substantially interlocking with the first link 23. When the second link 24 rotates, the abutting state between the second link 24 and the rib Ra shown in Fig. 17 is maintained in the circumferential direction of the rotation. The sliding portion with the rib Ra is lubricated by the lubricant 44 filled in the lubricant retaining portion ga, similarly to the sliding portion with the rib Re.

[0070] A first side surface 2403 of the main body portion 2401 of the second link 24 slidably contacts the first plate surface portion 2101 of the first member 21. The first side surface 2403 is disposed at a position overlapping at least one of the lubricant retaining portions Ga, Gb, Gc formed on the first plate surface portion 2101 of the first member 21 when viewed from the Y-axis direction. The lubricant holding portions Ga, Gb, Gc are arranged along concentric circles centered on the first rotating shaft 41 fixed to the shaft support portion 2106, so that the first side surface 2403 slides against the first plate surface portion 2101 with the longitudinal direction of the lubricant holding portions Ga, Gb, Gc coinciding with the circumferential direction of rotation. The first side surface 2403 in the vicinity of the lubricant holding portions Ga, Gb, Gc is lubricated by the lubricant 44 filled in the lubricant holding portions Ga, Gb, Gc. The direction of movement of the lubricant 44 is the circumferential direction during rotation. The lubricant 44 that has come out of the lubricant holding portions Ga, Gb, Gc remains in the vicinity of the lubricant holding portions Ga, Gb, Gc even when the first side surface 2403 rotates, so that the lubricating performance is maintained for a long period of time.

[0071] The operation of the cassette withdrawing device 20 will now be described. 2, the paper feed cassette 17 is inserted into and removed from the image processing device 100 in a first direction Da. In this embodiment, the first direction Da is the X-axis direction. A second direction Db, which is the protruding direction of the pin 179, is the Y-axis direction. A third direction Dc, which is perpendicular to the first direction Da and the second direction Db, is the Z-axis direction. When the sheet cassette 17 is inserted into the image processing apparatus 100 in the first direction Da, the pin 179 approaches the cassette retracting device 20 .

[0072] 19 to 21 are schematic diagrams illustrating the operation of the cassette pull-in device of the embodiment. 19 to 21, in order to make it easier to understand the internal operation of the cassette retracting device 20, the first member 21 is omitted from the illustration except for the guide portion 2114 and the guide groove 2116 shown by two-dot chain lines. Furthermore, the first elastic member 26 and the second elastic member 27 are illustrated diagrammatically.

[0073] FIG. 19 shows the inside of the cassette retracting device 20 before the paper feed cassette 17 is inserted. The first link 23 and the second link 24 are in a home position. In the home position, the positions and orientations of the first link 23 and the second link 24 are fixed. The first link 23 has rotated in the clockwise direction in the drawing to a position where the connecting plate 2302 of the first link 23 is close to the first stopper 2208. The second link 24 is in a rotation-prevented state. The hook 2412 of the second link 24 is engaged with the engagement pin 2209. When the hook 2412 of the second link 24 in the rotation-prevented state is engaged with the engagement pin 2209, the first link 23 and the second link 24 cannot rotate around the first rotation shaft 41. In the home position, the axis Aa of the first link 23 is inclined toward the positive direction of the Z axis as it moves in the negative direction of the X axis. The axis Aa is inclined at an acute angle with respect to the X axis on a plane parallel to the ZX plane. When the first link 23 and the second link 24 are in their home positions, the lower opening Ob overlaps with the end of the guide portion 2114 in the positive X-axis direction when viewed from the negative Y-axis direction. At the home position, the first elastic member 26 and the second elastic member 27 are extended further than in their natural state. The third link 25 is stopped at a position where the moment of the forces acting from the first elastic member 26 and the second elastic member 27 is balanced. The first arm 251 is separated from the third stopper 2210.

[0074] The pin 179 approaching the cassette retraction device 20 (see the pin 179 on the left side in FIG. 19) moves into the guide groove 2116. The pin 179 fixed to the cassette side link 178 can rotate within the ZX plane around the rotation axis 1781 (see FIG. 3) of the cassette side link 178, and therefore the pin 179 can move in the third direction Dc. When the sheet cassette 17 is further inserted, the pin 179 comes into contact with the guide groove 2116 and moves along the guide groove 2116 toward the guide portion 2114 . The tip of the pin 179 inserted into the inside of the first member 21 through the guide portion 2114 is inserted into the engagement groove 2407 through the lower opening Ob in the second link 24 . Thereafter, the pin 179 moves in the negative direction of the X-axis with its position in the third direction Dc regulated by the guide portion 2114. The pin 179 abuts against the first side wall 2408 and biases the second link 24 in a direction along the guide portion 2114. The second link 24 biased through the first side wall 2408 rotates counterclockwise in the figure about the second rotation shaft 42, and the engagement between the hook 2412 and the engagement pin 2209 is released.

[0075] When the engagement pin 2209 and the hook 2412 are disengaged, the first link 23 becomes rotatable about the first rotation shaft 41, causing the stretched first elastic member 26 and the second elastic member 27 to contract. The third link 25 rotates about the third rotation shaft 43 in the clockwise direction as shown in the figure, and the first link 23 rotates about the first rotation shaft 41 in the counterclockwise direction as shown in the figure. When the first link 23 starts to rotate, the second link 24 also rotates together with the first link 23 around the first rotation shaft 41 in the counterclockwise direction in the drawing. When the second link 24 rotates together with the first link 23, the second side wall 2409 comes into contact with the pin 179, and a force in the insertion direction of the paper feed cassette 17 is applied from the second side wall 2409 to the pin 179. The sheet cassette 17 is pulled in in the insertion direction by the force acting on the pins 179 from the second side wall 2409, even without being pushed by the user.

[0076] FIG. 20 shows a state in which the sheet cassette 17 is further inserted in the negative direction of the X axis and the pin 179 moves along the guide portion 2114. 20, the pin 179 moves in the negative direction of the X-axis along the guide portion 2114, causing the first link 23 to rotate counterclockwise in the figure, and the axis Aa of the first link 23 is approximately parallel to the Z-axis. In this rotation position, the engagement groove 2407 is also approximately parallel to the Z-axis. Due to the force relationship between the elastic restoring forces of the first elastic member 26 and the second elastic member 27, the third link 25 continues to rotate clockwise in the figure, and the first arm 251 is separated from the third stopper 2210.

[0077] FIG. 21 shows the position of the pin 179 when the sheet cassette 17 is further inserted in the negative X-axis direction and the insertion of the sheet cassette 17 is completed. 21, pin 179 moves in the negative direction of the X-axis and the positive direction of the Z-axis along the curved shape of rear end portion 2115 of guide portion 2114. First link 23 receives a moment of force in the counterclockwise direction as shown in the figure from first elastic member 26, and is stopped in rotation by being stopped by second stopper 2212. The third link 25 receives a force moment in the clockwise direction in the drawing from the second elastic member 27, and with the first arm 251 engaged with the third stopper 2210, rotation is stopped. The pin 179 is sandwiched between a first side wall 2408 and a second side wall 2409 of the engagement groove 2407 . The position of the sheet cassette 17 in the first direction Da is fixed within the range of the gap between the pin 179 and the engagement groove 2407, and the insertion of the sheet cassette 17 is completed.

[0078] As described above, from the time when the engagement between the hook 2412 and the engagement pin 2209 is released until the insertion is completed as shown in FIG. 21, the pin 179 continues to receive a retracting force acting in the insertion direction from the second side wall 2409 due to the contraction of the first elastic member 26 and the second elastic member 27. After the user pushes the sheet feed cassette 17 in the insertion direction to release the engagement between the hook 2412 and the engagement pin 2209, the sheet feed cassette 17 is smoothly pulled in. 21, the damper 18 shown in Fig. 2 comes into contact with the inner plate 101. The damper 18 absorbs the impact force generated in the sheet cassette 17 and the cassette retracting device 20 when the sheet cassette 17 stops.

[0079] When the inserted sheet cassette 17 is to be pulled out in the first direction Da, the above-described operations are performed in reverse. A pulling force in the insertion direction acts on the sheet cassette 17 from the second side wall 2409 via the pin 179, so the user pulls out the sheet cassette 17 in the pulling direction opposite to the insertion direction against the pulling force. When the pin 179 moves along the guide portion 2114 to the end of the guide portion 2114 in the positive direction of the X-axis, the hook 2412 engages with the first stopper 2208, and the first link 23 and the second link 24 return to their home positions. The pulling force acting on the pin 179 disappears. The pin 179 is pulled out from the lower opening Ob of the engagement groove 2407 into the guide groove 2116, and the engagement between the pin 179 and the engagement groove 2407 is released. The user can pull out the paper feed cassette 17 to the front side of the device body 15 .

[0080] For example, if the engagement between the hook 2412 and the engagement pin 2209 at the home position is released for some reason before the paper feed cassette 17 is inserted, the first link 23 and the second link 24 move to the position shown in FIG. 21 without engaging the pin 179 with the engagement groove 2407. In this embodiment, the pin 179 can be engaged with the engagement groove 2407 from the above-mentioned state. When the user inserts the paper feed cassette 17 from the above-mentioned state, the pin 179 introduced into the guide portion 2114 rides up onto the upper guide surface 2410. When the user further pushes the paper feed cassette 17 in the negative X-axis direction, the second link 24 rotates counterclockwise in the figure about the second rotation shaft 42 due to the force acting on the upper guide surface 2410 from the pin 179 moving along the guide portion 2114. When the user inserts the paper feed cassette 17 to a position immediately before the completion of insertion, the pin 179 enters the engagement groove 2407 from the upper guide surface 2410 through the upper opening Oa and engages with the engagement groove 2407 as shown in FIG. 21. The cassette retraction device 20 is in the same state as when the insertion is completed. Thereafter, as described above, when the user pulls out the paper feed cassette 17, the first link 23 and the second link 24 return to their home positions.

[0081] As described above, in this embodiment, when the sheet cassette 17 is inserted or removed, the first link 23, the second link 24, and the third link 25 each rotate. If the first link 23, the second link 24, and the third link 25 do not rotate smoothly, it may cause problems when pulling in the paper feed cassette 17, or it may cause a burden on the user. The functions of the ribs and the lubricant retaining portion provided on the first member 21 and the second member 22 in this embodiment will be described.

[0082] 6, when the first link 23 rotates, the first link 23 is sandwiched between the ribs Rb and Re, and therefore rotates stably within the plane Sa without wobbling in the Y-axis direction. Furthermore, the sliding parts between the first link 23 and the ribs Rb and Re are lubricated with the lubricant 44, so that the sliding resistance caused by the rotation of the first link 23 is reduced. When the second link 24 rotates, the second link 24 is sandwiched between the rib Ra and the first plate surface portion 2101 on which the lubricant retaining portion Ga is provided, and therefore rotates stably without wobbling in the Y-axis direction. Furthermore, the sliding portions between the second link 24 and the rib Ra and the first plate surface portion 2101 are lubricated with the lubricant 44, and therefore the sliding resistance caused by the rotation of the second link 24 is reduced. 10, when the third link 25 rotates, the first arm 251 is held by the ribs Rc and Rf, and the second arm 252 is held by the ribs Rd and Rg, so that the third link 25 rotates stably without wobbling in the Y-axis direction. Furthermore, the sliding parts between the third link 25 and the ribs Rb, Rf, Rd, and Rg are lubricated with the lubricant 44, so that the sliding resistance caused by the rotation is reduced.

[0083] The first link 23 is engaged with a first elastic member 26, and the third link 25 is engaged with a first elastic member 26 and a second elastic member 27, and receives an external force from each of them. These external forces act substantially on the plane Sa. First link 23 and third link 25 do not receive a force moment from first elastic member 26 and second elastic member 27 about an axis intersecting the normal to plane Sa, and therefore, coupled with a reduction in the sliding load due to sliding contact with the rib, first link 23 and third link 25 can rotate smoothly.

[0084] FIG. 22 is a schematic perspective view for explaining the operation of the cassette pulling-in device of the embodiment. For example, when the second link 24 retracts the pin 179 in the insertion direction, the first link 23 receives the biasing force Fs from the first elastic member 26 at the first locking portion 2307. The second link 24 receives an external force Fp from the pin 179 abutting against the second side wall 2409 . The engagement position between the pin 179 and the engagement groove 2407 (the point of application of the external force Fp) is on a plane Sb that is away from the plane Sa by a distance d in the positive Y-axis direction. When the second link 24 is not in sliding contact with the rib Ra and the first plate surface portion 2101, the second link 24 rotates within the XY plane due to the moment of the external force Fp, and the moment of the external force Fp acts on the first link 23 through the second link 24. Since the first link 23 rotates within the XY plane, the contact state with the ribs Re, Rb becomes uneven, and the sliding load increases. In this embodiment, the second link 24 slides while being sandwiched between the rib Ra and the first plate surface portion 2101. Even if a moment of the external force Fp acts, the rotation of the second link 24 itself in the XY plane is suppressed, and the posture of the first link 23 is kept parallel to the plane Sa, so that the sliding load of the first link 23 and the second link 24 is suppressed.

[0085] As described above, according to this embodiment, it is possible to provide the cassette retracting device 20 that can reduce the burden on the user and enable smooth insertion of the paper feed cassette.

[0086] The plane Sa is an example of a plane on which the biasing forces of the first elastic member and the second elastic member act. The third side 2405 is an example of a side on the second link along which the rib slides.

[0087] Modifications of the above-described embodiment will now be described. In the embodiment, the rib that slides against the side surface of the second link is provided on the second member. However, the rib may be provided only on the first member, or may be provided on both the first member and the second member. In the embodiment, no rib is provided on the first member 21, but the first side surface 2403 of the second link 24 is in sliding contact with the first plate surface portion 2101, so that the first plate surface portion 2101 has the function of clamping the second link 24 and stabilizing its posture, similar to the rib. If the posture of the second link 24 can be stabilized simply by the second link 24 being in sliding contact with the rib Ra, the first plate surface portion 2101 may be separated from the first side surface 2403. In the case where a rib is provided on the first member 21, if the rib of the first member 21 and the first side surface 2403 can stabilize the position of the second member 22, the rib Ra may be omitted. The rib that slides against the side surface of the second member may be provided on either or both of the first member and the second member 22.

[0088] In the embodiment, an example has been described in which the lubricant retaining portion for retaining the lubricant is provided at the tip of the rib in the protruding direction. However, if the sliding friction between the tip of the rib and the side surface of the second link is small, the lubricant holder may be omitted. For example, if a low-friction material is used for the rib, the lubricant and the lubricant holder may be omitted. Even if the lubricant retaining portion is not formed, if the lubricant necessary for lubrication can be adhered to the tip of the rib, the lubricant retaining portion may be omitted and the lubricant may simply be applied to the rib.

[0089] In the description of the embodiment, the lubricant retaining portion is a groove, but the lubricant retaining portion does not have to be a groove as long as the lubricant can be retained. For example, the tip of the rib may be formed with minute irregularities, stripes, or a rough surface, or the tip of the rib may be made porous.

[0090] In the description of the embodiment, an example has been given in which the cassette retraction device has a third link and a second elastic member. However, if there is space to place the first elastic member required to bias the first link, the third link and the second elastic member may be omitted. When the third link and the second elastic member are not provided, the end (second hook 262) of the first elastic member opposite the end that engages with the first link is engaged with the second member or the first member.

[0091] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, there is provided a guide portion that guides, in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction, a position of a pin that protrudes from a paper feed cassette that is removably inserted in a first direction, when the paper feed cassette is inserted or removed; a first member on which the guide portion is formed; a second member that is fixed to the first member and faces the first member in the first direction; a first rotating shaft that is provided between the first member and the second member and has a length extending from the second member to the first member in the first direction; a first link that is rotatably supported by the first rotating shaft; and a second link that is provided on the first link. a second rotating shaft having a length in a direction facing the first member in a first direction, a second link rotatably supported on the second rotating shaft and having an engagement groove that engages with the pin in the first direction and slides with the pin in a direction intersecting the direction of movement of the pin, and a rib provided on one or both of the first member and the second member, protruding in the first direction toward the second link, and sliding against a side of the second link within the range of movement of the second link associated with rotation of the first link about the first rotating shaft, thereby providing a cassette retraction device that reduces the burden on the user and enables the paper feed cassette to be inserted smoothly.

[0092] Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims, as well as in the scope and spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 15... device body, 17... paper feed cassette, 20... cassette retraction device, 21... first member, 22... second member, 23... first link, 24... second link, 25... third link, 26... first elastic member, 27... second elastic member, 41... first rotating shaft, 42... second rotating shaft, 43... third rotating shaft, 44... lubricant, 100... image processing device, 179... pin, 2114... guide portion, 2116... guide groove, 2209... engagement pin, 2 405...third side surface, 2407...engagement groove, 2408...first side wall, 2409...second side wall, 2410...upper guide surface, 2412...hook, 2511...first end, 2521...second end, Aa...axis, Da...first direction, Db...second direction, Dc...third direction, ga, Ga, gb, Gb, gc, Gc, gd, ge, gf, gg...lubricant retaining portion, Ra, Rb, Rc, Rd, Re, Rf, Rg...rib, Sa, Sb...plane

Claims

1. a guide portion that guides a position of a pin protruding from a sheet feed cassette that is removably inserted in a first direction in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction, when the sheet feed cassette is inserted or removed; A first member on which the guide portion is formed; a second member fixed to the first member and facing the first member in the first direction; a first rotation shaft provided between the first member and the second member and having a length extending from the second member toward the first member in the first direction; a first link rotatably supported on the first rotating shaft; a second rotation shaft provided on the first link and having a length in a direction facing the first member in the first direction; a second link that is rotatably supported on the second rotating shaft and has an engagement groove that engages with the pin in the first direction and slides with the pin in a direction intersecting the moving direction of the pin; a rib provided on one or both of the first member and the second member, protruding in the first direction toward the second link, and sliding against a side surface of the second link within a movement range of the second link associated with rotation of the first link about the first rotation axis; A cassette retraction device comprising:

2. Further, a lubricant retaining portion for retaining a lubricant is provided at a tip of the rib in a protruding direction.

2. The cassette retraction apparatus of claim 1.

3. The shape of the rib as viewed from the first direction is an arc shape centered on the first rotation axis.

3. A cassette retracting device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. a third rotation shaft having a length extending from the second member toward the first member in the first direction; a third link having a first end and a second end and rotatably supported by the third rotating shaft at an intermediate portion between the first end and the second end; a first elastic member that engages the first end of the third link and a first engaging portion provided on the first link and applies a force moment around the first rotation axis to the first link; a second elastic member that is engaged with the second end of the third link and a second engaging portion provided on the second member, and that applies to the third link a force moment in a direction opposite to a force moment from the first elastic member acting around the third rotation axis; Further equipped with the biasing force of the first elastic member and the second elastic member acts on a plane intersecting the first rotation axis and the third rotation axis, The engagement position between the pin and the engagement groove is spaced from the plane in a normal direction of the plane. A cassette retracting device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The side surface of the second link that slides against the rib is away from the plane in the normal direction.

5. The cassette retraction device of claim 4.

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