Developer container and image forming apparatus

Abstract

To provide a developer accommodating container attached and removed from an image forming device, in which backlash is suppressed when drive is transmitted to the developer accommodating container, as compared with the case where, when drive is transmitted, there are multiple positioning points, and spatial allowances of positioning and positioned parts are equal, or where spatial allowances of positioning and positioned parts away from the drive position are small.SOLUTION: Provided is a developer accommodating container (1), with second rotation-stopped means (52) the distance of which to transmitted means (37) is farther than first rotation-stopped means (51) provided to the accommodating container (1). The first rotation-stopped means (51) and the second rotation-stopped means (52) are in contact with first rotation-stopping means (7) and second rotation-stopping means (8) of the body (U1) of the image forming device, with a spatial allowance between the first rotation-stopped means (51) and the first rotation-stopping means (7) is smaller than a spatial allowance between the second rotation-stopped means (52) and the second rotation-stopping means (8).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a developer container and an image forming apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art In an image forming apparatus, the technology described in Patent Document 1 below is known in the art regarding a detachable developer storage container such as a toner cartridge or a waste toner box.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a toner cartridge (52) having a toner storage chamber (170) disposed at the top and a toner discharge chamber (172) disposed at the bottom. The toner cartridge (52) of Patent Document 1 has a toner delivery chamber (174) disposed at the bottom end of the toner storage chamber (170), which is located in the vertical center of the toner cartridge (52). A toner conveying member (182) delivers toner toward the developing unit (114). A gear (184) exposed to the outside is disposed at the axial end of the agitation conveying member (182). When the toner cartridge (52) is installed in the device main body (50A), the gear (184) engages with the upper end of a gear (186) of the device main body (50A). In other words, the configuration of Patent Document 1 transmits drive force from the device main body (50A) to the gear (184) disposed in the vertical center of the toner cartridge (52). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2011-232399 A ("0058"-"0075", Figures 1-5) Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The technical objective of the present invention is to suppress rattling when drive is transmitted to a developer storage container that is attached to and detached from an image forming device, compared to when positioning is performed at multiple locations and the spatial margins of the positioning and the positioned portion are equal, or when the spatial margins of the positioning and the positioned portion that are farther away from the drive position are smaller. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above technical problem, the developer container of the invention described in claim 1 comprises: a container for containing a developer; a conveying means for conveying the developer; a drive receiving means to which a drive force is transmitted from a transmission means of a main body of the image forming apparatus, the drive receiving means transmitting the drive force to the conveying means; Equipped with A developer container detachable from a main body of an image forming apparatus, The container is provided with a first rotation-stopped means and a second rotation-stopped means that is farther from the first rotation-stopped means than the transmission means, When the container is attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus, the first rotation-stopped means contacts a first rotation-stopping means provided on the main body of the image forming apparatus, and the second rotation-stopped means contacts a second rotation-stopping means provided on the main body of the image forming apparatus; The spatial margin between the first rotation-stopped means and the first rotation-stopping means is smaller than the spatial margin between the second rotation-stopped means and the second rotation-stopping means. It is characterized by:

[0007] In order to solve the above technical problem, the developer container of the invention described in claim 2 comprises: a container for containing a developer; a conveying means for conveying the developer; a drive receiving means to which a drive force is transmitted from a transmission means of a main body of the image forming apparatus, the drive receiving means transmitting the drive force to the conveying means; Equipped with A developer container detachable from a main body of an image forming apparatus, The container is provided with a first rotation-stopped means and a second rotation-stopped means, each of which is a recess or a protrusion, and When the container is attached to the main body, the first rotation-stopping means and the second rotation-stopping means are fitted with the first rotation-stopping means and the second rotation-stopping means, which are each made of a convex portion or a concave portion, respectively; The depth or height of the first rotation-stopped means is smaller than the depth or height of the second rotation-stopped means. Ku, One of the first rotation-stopped means and the second rotation-stopped means is formed concave and the other is formed convex. It is characterized by:

[0008] The invention described in claim 3 is the developer container according to claim 1 or 2, the container having a first container for containing new developer to be supplied to the main body of the image forming apparatus, and a second container for containing developer discharged from the main body of the image forming apparatus; Equipped with The first receiving means and the second receiving means are provided with the second rotation-stopped means and the first rotation-stopped means, respectively. It is characterized by:

[0009] The invention described in claim 4 is the developer container described in claim 3, The upper end of the first container is disposed higher than the upper end of the second container; The second rotation-stopping means is formed in a convex shape that protrudes outward from the outer surface of the first containing means, and is fitted into the second rotation-stopping means that is formed in a concave shape when the containing container is attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus. It is characterized by:

[0010] The invention described in claim 5 is the developer container described in claim 4, The second rotation stop means is formed in the shape of an elongated hole having a minor axis in the circumferential direction of the rotation of the transmitted means and a major axis in the radial direction. It is characterized by:

[0011] The invention described in claim 6 is a developer container according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The first rotation-stopping means is formed in a concave shape recessed inward from the outer surface of the storage means, and when the storage container is attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus, the first rotation-stopping means formed in a convex shape fits into the concave shape. It is characterized by:

[0012] The invention described in claim 7 is the developer container described in claim 6, a storage means having a first storage means for storing new developer to be supplied to a main body of an image forming apparatus, and a second storage means for storing developer discharged from the main body of the image forming apparatus; The concave first rotation-stopped means is formed so as to be recessed inward of the second containing means. It is characterized by:

[0013] The invention described in claim 8 is the developer container described in claim 6, The length of the second rotation-stopped means is shorter than the length of the first rotation-stopped means along a direction in which the container is attached to or detached from the main body of the image forming apparatus. It is characterized by:

[0014] The invention described in claim 9 is a developer container according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The transmission receiving means is disposed at the outer end of the receiving means in the longitudinal direction. It is characterized by:

[0015] In order to solve the above technical problem, the image forming apparatus of the invention described in claim 10 comprises: Image holding means; a developing means for developing the latent image held on the image holding means; transfer means for transferring the developed image from the image bearing means to a medium; a developer container according to any one of claims 1 to 9, which contains new developer to be supplied to the developing means, the developer container being detachable from a main body of an image forming apparatus; The present invention is characterized by the following features. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to the inventions described in claims 1, 2, and 10, when drive is transmitted to a developer container that is attached to and detached from an image forming device, rattles can be suppressed compared to when positioning is performed at multiple locations and the spatial margins of the positioning and the positioned portion are equal, or when the spatial margins of the positioning and the positioned portion that are farther away from the drive position are smaller. According to the invention as set forth in claim 3, it is possible to reliably fix the developer container for collecting developer while supplying new developer to the main body of the image forming apparatus. According to the fourth aspect of the invention, the developer capacity of the first containing means can be increased compared to when the second rotation stopped means is concave. According to the invention of claim 5, compared to when the second rotation stopping means is not in the shape of an elongated hole, rotation can be suppressed in the minor axis direction while ensuring a sufficient spatial margin in the major axis direction.

[0017] According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the image forming apparatus can be prevented from becoming large in size as a whole, compared to when the first rotation stopper means is concave. According to the seventh aspect of the invention, it is possible to prevent the volume of new developer from decreasing, compared to when the concave first rotation stopper is disposed at the location of the first container. According to the eighth aspect of the invention, the rotation of the developer container can be suppressed more effectively than when the first rotation-stopped means is shorter. According to the invention as set forth in claim 9, the capacity of the developer container can be increased compared to when the transmission receiving means is not disposed at the outer end in the longitudinal direction. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 2A and 2B are explanatory diagrams of the side portion of the image forming apparatus of the first embodiment, with FIG. 2A being an explanatory diagram of a state in which a toner cartridge is installed, and FIG. 2B being an explanatory diagram of a state in which the toner cartridge is removed. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the toner cartridge of the first embodiment as seen obliquely from the front. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the toner cartridge of the first embodiment as seen obliquely from behind. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the toner cartridge according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of the toner cartridge of the first embodiment with the protective member removed. [Figure 7] 7A and 7B are explanatory diagrams of the operation of the first embodiment, in which FIG. 7A is an explanatory diagram of rotation along the rotation direction of the gear acting on the toner cartridge, and FIG. 7B is an explanatory diagram of rotation due to a reaction force along the radial direction of the gear. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram of modified examples of the rotation preventing means and the means to be prevented from rotation, where Figure 8A is an explanatory diagram of the case of a rib and a groove, Figure 8B is an explanatory diagram of the case of a notch and a block-shaped protrusion, and Figure 8C is an explanatory diagram of the case of a recess and a protrusion. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] Next, examples of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, but the present invention is not limited to the following examples. To facilitate understanding of the following explanation, in the drawings, the front-to-back direction (width direction of the medium) is defined as the X-axis direction, the left-to-right direction (direction of transport of the medium) as the Y-axis direction, and the up-to-down direction as the Z-axis direction, and the directions or sides indicated by arrows X, -X, Y, -Y, Z, -Z are defined as the front, rear, right, left, upper, and lower, or the front side, rear side, right side, left side, upper side, and lower side, respectively. In addition, in the figures, a circle with a "·" inside it means an arrow pointing from the back to the front of the page, and a circle with an "x" inside it means an arrow pointing from the front to the back of the page. In the following description using the drawings, illustrations of components other than those necessary for the description are omitted as appropriate to facilitate understanding. [Example]

[0020] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. In Fig. 1, a printer U as an example of an image forming apparatus of the present invention has a device main body U1. A front cover U2 as an example of a medium replenishment opening / closing device that is opened and closed when replenishing new media is supported on the front of the device main body U1 so as to be openable and closable around its lower end. The front cover U2 is supported so as to be movable between an open position shown by solid lines in Fig. 1, where paper as an example of a medium can be inserted, and a closed position shown by dashed lines in Fig. 1. An output tray TRh as an example of a paper discharge storage device is provided on the top surface of the device main body U1.

[0021] 1, a control board SC on which various control circuits, storage media, etc. are arranged is disposed below the printer U. The control board SC is provided with a control unit C that performs various controls on the printer U, an image processing unit GS whose operation is controlled by the control unit C, a write drive circuit DL as an example of a drive circuit for a latent image forming device, and a power supply circuit E as an example of a power supply device. The power supply circuit E applies voltages to charging rollers CRy-CRk as an example of charging means, developing rollers G1y-G1k as an example of developer holding means, primary transfer rollers T1y-T1k as an example of transfer means, etc.

[0022] The image processing unit GS converts printing information input from a personal computer PC or the like, which is an example of an image information transmitting device electrically connected to the device main body U1, into image information for forming latent images corresponding to images of the four colors of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, i.e., Y, M, C, and K, and outputs the information to the write drive circuit DL at a predetermined time. If the original image is a single-color image, that is, a monochrome image, only black image information is input to the write drive circuit DL. The write drive circuit DL has drive circuits for each color Y, M, C, and K (not shown), and outputs signals corresponding to the input image information at predetermined times to LED heads LHy, LHm, LHc, and LHk, which are examples of latent image forming means arranged for each color.

[0023] In Fig. 1, above the control board SC, there are arranged image forming devices UY, UM, UC, and UK, which are examples of image forming means for forming images (toner images) of each color of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black. In Fig. 1, the black, i.e., K-color, image forming device UK has a photoconductor Pk, which is an example of an image holding means. Around the photoconductor Pk, there are arranged a charging roller CRk that charges the surface of the photoconductor Pk, an LED head LHk that forms an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photoconductor Pk, a developing device Gk, which is an example of a developing means for developing the latent image on the surface of the photoconductor Pk, and a photoconductor cleaner CLk, which is an example of an image holding means for removing developer remaining on the surface of the photoconductor Pk. The other color image forming devices UY, UM, and UC are configured in the same manner as the black image forming device UK.

[0024] The surfaces of the photoreceptors Py-Pk are uniformly charged by charging rollers CRy-CRk in charging regions Q1y, Q1m, Q1c, and Q1k that face the charging rollers CRy-CRk, and then latent images are written onto the photoreceptors Py-Pk by LED heads LHy-LHk in latent image forming regions Q2y, Q2m, Q2c, and Q2k. The written electrostatic latent images are developed into toner images in development regions Q3y, Q3m, Q3c, and Q3k that face developing devices Gy-Gk. The developed toner images are transported to primary transfer regions Q4y, Q4m, Q4c, and Q4k that contact an intermediate transfer belt B, which is an example of an intermediate transfer body. A primary transfer voltage of the opposite polarity to the toner charging polarity is applied to the primary transfer rollers T1y, T1m, T1c, and T1k, which are examples of primary transfer means arranged on the back side of the intermediate transfer belt B in the primary transfer areas Q4y, Q4m, Q4c, and Q4k, at a predetermined time from a power supply circuit E controlled by a control unit C.

[0025] The toner images on the photosensitive members Py to Pk are primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt B by the primary transfer rollers T1y, T1m, T1c, and T1k. After the primary transfer, residual toner, discharge products, and other adhering matter on the surfaces of the photoconductors Py, Pm, Pc, and Pk are cleaned by photoconductor cleaners CLy, CLm, CLc, and CLk. The cleaned surfaces of the photoconductors Py, Pm, Pc, and Pk are then recharged by charging rollers CRy, CRm, CRc, and CRk. Charge cleaners CCy, CCm, CCc, and CCk, which are an example of cleaning means for charging members, are in contact with the charge rollers CRy to CRk. Therefore, the charge cleaners CCy to CCk remove residues and the like that are not completely removed by the photosensitive member cleaners CLy to CLk and that remain on the charge rollers CRy to CRk from the photosensitive members Py to Pk.

[0026] 1, a belt module BM, which is an example of an intermediate transfer unit, is disposed above the photoconductors Py to Pk. The belt module BM has an intermediate transfer belt B, which is an example of an image holding means and an example of an intermediate transfer means. The intermediate transfer belt B is rotatably supported by an intermediate transfer support system that includes a belt drive roll Rd, which is an example of a drive means, a backup roll T2a, which is an example of a driven means and an example of a secondary transfer opposing means, and the primary transfer rollers T1y, T1m, T1c, and T1k disposed opposite each of the photoconductors Py to Pk. In front of the intermediate transfer belt B, a belt cleaner CLb is disposed as an example of a cleaning means for the intermediate transfer body.

[0027] A secondary transfer roll T2b, which is an example of a secondary transfer means, is disposed opposite the surface of the intermediate transfer belt B that contacts the backup roll T2a. The backup roll T2a and the secondary transfer roll T2b constitute the secondary transfer device T2 of Example 1. The opposing area of ​​the secondary transfer roll T2b and the intermediate transfer belt B forms a secondary transfer area Q5. The single-color or multi-color toner images transferred in succession onto the intermediate transfer belt B by the primary transfer rollers T1y, T1m, T1c, and T1k in the primary transfer areas Q4y, Q4m, Q4c, and Q4k are transported to the secondary transfer area Q5. The primary transfer rollers T1y to T1k, the intermediate transfer belt B, the secondary transfer device T2, and the like constitute a transfer device T1+T2+B as an example of the transfer means of the first embodiment.

[0028] A manual tray TR1, which is an example of a medium stacking means, is provided below the control board SC. A lift plate PL1, which is an example of a lifting means, is arranged on the manual tray TR1. Recording sheets S, which are an example of a medium, can be stacked on the upper surface of the lift plate PL1. The rear end of the lift plate PL1 rises during printing, raising the rear end of the recording sheet S. A paper feed roll Rp, which is an example of a sending means, is arranged behind the lift plate PL1. The paper feed roll Rp comes into contact with the uppermost recording sheet S of the stack of recording sheets S when the lift plate PL1 is moved to the raised position. A retard pad Rpd, which is an example of a separating means, is arranged behind the paper feed roll Rp. Recording sheets S loaded on manual tray TR1 are fed out by a paper feed roller Rp, separated one by one at a contact area between the retard pad Rpd and the paper feed roller Rp, and transported to a manual feed path SH0, which is an example of a medium transport path. The recording sheets S on the manual feed path SH0 merge with a first paper feed path SH6, which is an example of a medium transport path. At the upper end of the first paper feed path SH6, a registration roller Rr, which is an example of a transport means and an example of a member for adjusting the paper feed timing, is disposed. The registration roller Rr sends out the recording sheets S onto the medium transport path SH toward the secondary transfer area Q5 in time with the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt B reaching the secondary transfer area Q5.

[0029] The toner image on the intermediate transfer belt B is transferred onto the recording sheet S sent to the secondary transfer area Q5. After the toner image is transferred in the secondary transfer area Q5, the intermediate transfer belt B is cleaned by the belt cleaner CLb to remove any residual toner and discharge products remaining on its surface. The recording sheet S onto which the toner image has been transferred is transported to a fixing area Q6 of a fixing device F, which is an example of a fixing means. The fixing device F has a heating roll Fh, which is an example of a heating means, and a pressure roll Fp, which is an example of a pressure means. The fixing area Q6 is formed by the area where the heating roll Fh and the pressure roll Fp come into contact with each other at a preset pressure. The unfixed toner image on the surface of the recording sheet S is fixed by heat and pressure as it passes through the fixing area Q6. The recording sheet S on which the image has been fixed is discharged onto a discharge tray TRh from a discharge roller Rh, which is an example of a medium discharge means.

[0030] To the right of the discharge roller Rh, an additional connection path SH1 for reversal is formed as an example of a conveying path, branching off from the media conveying path SH and extending to the right, and a gate GT1 as an example of a switching means is arranged at the branch point between the additional connection path SH1 and the media conveying path SH. In the printer U of the first embodiment, a reversing unit U5 is supported on the rear surface of the device main body U1. A reversing path SH2, which is an example of a second conveying path, is formed inside the reversing unit U5. The upstream end of the reversing path SH2 is connected to the right end of the additional connection path SH1 of the device main body U1. The downstream end of the reversing path SH2 merges with the first paper feed path SH6 upstream of the registration roll Rr of the device main body U1. Therefore, when double-sided printing is performed, the recording sheet S, which has an image recorded on one side, is conveyed along the medium conveying path SH, and when the trailing edge in the conveying direction passes through the gate GT1, the discharge roller Rh rotates in the reverse direction, and the recording sheet S is sent to the additional connection path SH1 and the reversing path SH2. Then, the recording sheet S is conveyed by the conveying roller Ra, which is an example of a conveying member arranged on the reversing path SH2, and is sent again to the registration roller Rr with the front and back of the recording sheet S inverted.

[0031] In the printer U of the first embodiment, a paper feed module U6 is disposed below the device main body U1. A paper feed tray TR2 is formed inside the paper feed module U6. A second paper feed path SH7, which is an example of a transport path, is formed at the rear of the paper feed module U6. The second paper feed path SH7 extends in the vertical direction. The upper end of the second paper feed path SH7 is connected to the lower end of the first paper feed path SH6. The sheet feed tray TR2 in the first embodiment is configured similarly to the manual feed tray TR1, except that it is longer in the front-to-rear direction. Therefore, the sheet feed module U6 is provided with a sheet feed roll Rp' and a lifting plate PL1', just like the manual feed tray TR1. Therefore, recording sheets S fed by the sheet feed roll Rp' are transported to the first sheet feed path SH6. The second sheet feed path SH7 is configured so that, if a sheet feed module U6 is added below the sheet feed module U6, recording sheets S can pass through it from below.

[0032] (Toner cartridge description) 2A and 2B are explanatory diagrams of the side portion of the image forming apparatus of the first embodiment, with FIG. 2A being an explanatory diagram of a state in which a toner cartridge is installed, and FIG. 2B being an explanatory diagram of a state in which the toner cartridge is removed. In Fig. 2A, toner cartridges 1y, 1m, 1c, and 1k, which are an example of developer containers, are removably supported on the right side of the printer U of this embodiment. The toner cartridges 1y, 1m, 1c, and 1k are provided corresponding to the colors Y, M, C, and K. The Y, M, and C toner cartridges 1y, 1m, and 1c are formed to be the same size. The K toner cartridge 1k, which is used more frequently, is larger than the Y, M, and C toner cartridges 1y to 1c in order to accommodate a larger toner capacity. 2B, the toner cartridges 1y-1k are removably housed in cartridge housing chambers 2y, 2m, 2c, and 2k formed on the right side of the device body U1 of the printer U. Toner discharge cylinders 3y, 3m, 3c, and 3k extending from the photosensitive member cleaners CLy-CLk are disposed in the vertical center of the cartridge housing chambers 2y, 2m, 2c, and 2k as an example of developer discharge means. The toner discharge cylinders 3y, 3m, 3c, and 3k are disposed within the cartridge housing chambers 2y, 2m, 2c, and 2k, protruding to the right.

[0033] In each of the cartridge storage chambers 2y to 2k, a toner receiving portion 4y, 4m, 4c, or 4k is disposed below the front of the toner discharge cylinder 3y to 3k as an example of a means for receiving developer. The toner receiving portion 4y to 4k is formed in a semi-cylindrical shape protruding to the right within the cartridge storage chamber 2y, 2m, 2c, or 2k, and has an opening on the top surface through which the toner can flow. At the lower end of each cartridge storage chamber 2y-2k, main body gears 6y, 6m, 6c, and 6k, which serve as an example of a drive means, are disposed. Drive is transmitted to the main body gears 6y-6k from a motor (not shown), which serves as an example of a drive source. The main body gears 6y-6k are disposed with only the upper ends of the gears exposed to the outside. Therefore, the main body gears 6y to 6k are disposed below the toner cartridges 1y to 1k, that is, on the outer sides in the up-down direction.

[0034] Rotation stopper protrusions 7y, 7m, 7c, and 7k, which serve as an example of first rotation stopper means, are disposed diagonally above the main body gears 6y to 6k. The rotation stopper protrusions 7y to 7k are formed as cylindrical protrusions that protrude rightward within the cartridge accommodating chambers 2y, 2m, 2c, and 2k. Rotation stop recesses 8y, 8m, 8c, and 8k are provided at the top of the cartridge accommodating chambers 2y to 2k as an example of second rotation stop means. The rotation stop recesses 8y to 8k are cylindrical recesses recessed toward the inside of the apparatus main body U1. The rotation stop recesses 8y to 8k in Example 1 are formed as elongated holes extending in the vertical direction.

[0035] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the toner cartridge of the first embodiment as seen obliquely from the front. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the toner cartridge of the first embodiment as seen obliquely from behind. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the toner cartridge according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of the toner cartridge of the first embodiment with the protective member removed. Next, we will explain the toner cartridges 1y to 1k. Since each toner cartridge 1y to 1k is similar or has the same configuration but differs in size, we will only explain in detail the Y-color toner cartridge 1y and omit explanations for the other color toner cartridges 1m, 1c, and 1k.

[0036] 3 to 6, the toner cartridge 1 (1y) has a new toner storage section 11 at the top and a waste toner storage section 12 at the bottom. The new toner storage section 11 and the waste toner storage section 12 constitute the storage means 11+12 of the first embodiment. Specifically, in the first embodiment, the top end of the new toner storage section 11 is positioned higher than the top end of the waste toner storage section 12. The new toner storage section 11, which is an example of a first storage section, stores new developer, so-called new toner, to be supplied to the developing device Gy. The waste toner storage section 12, which is an example of a second storage section, stores developer collected by the photosensitive member cleaner CLy, discharge products, and the like. The new toner storage section 11 has an upper main storage section 21 and a lower supply section 22. In Fig. 5, an agitating auger 23, which is an example of an agitating means, is disposed at the lower end of the main storage section 21. The agitating auger 23 is composed of a rotating shaft 23a and a spiral blade 23b supported on the outer periphery of the rotating shaft 23a.

[0037] An end of the rotation shaft 23a is rotatably supported on the outer wall 21a of the main accommodating portion 21. An agitating gear 24, which is an example of a second force receiving means, is supported on the outer end of the rotation shaft 23a outside the outer wall 21a of the main accommodating portion 21, i.e., on the front side in the installation / removal direction of the toner cartridge 1y. The agitating auger 23 of the first embodiment is configured to convey the developer in the main accommodating portion 21 toward the outer wall 21a while agitating the developer during rotation.

[0038] The supply unit 22 is formed in a cylindrical shape extending parallel to the rotation shaft 23a, and its end on the outer wall 21a side is connected to the main storage unit 21. The supply unit 22 has a supply port 22a that opens downward at its end inside the device main body U1. The supply unit 22 is disposed at a position corresponding to the toner receiving unit 4y, and is configured so that the supply port 22a connects to the opening of the toner receiving unit 4y when the toner cartridge 1y is attached to the device main body U1. A transport auger 26, which is an example of a transport means, is disposed inside the supply unit 22. The transport auger 26 has a rotation shaft 26a extending parallel to the rotation shaft 23a of the agitating auger 23, and a spiral blade 26b supported on the outer periphery of the rotation shaft 26a. A transport gear 27, which is an example of a third force receiving means, is supported at the outer end of the transport auger 26. The transport gear 27 is in mesh with the agitating gear 24. The transport auger 26 of the first embodiment is configured to transport the developer in the supply unit 22 toward the supply port 22a while agitating the developer during rotation. Therefore, in Example 1, the toner contained in the new toner container 11 is stirred and transported toward the supply port 22a through the stirring auger 23 and the transport auger 26 located at the lower end, and is supplied to the developing device Gy through the toner receiving section 4y of the device main body U1.

[0039] 4, the waste toner storage unit 12 has a waste toner inlet 32, which is an example of an opening through which developer flows, formed at the upper end of an inner wall 31 inside the device main body U1. The waste toner inlet 32 ​​is formed at a position corresponding to the toner discharge cylinder 3y, and in Example 1, the waste toner inlet 32 ​​is located above the height of the conveying auger 26. In Example 1, when the toner cartridge 1y is attached to the device main body U1, the toner discharge cylinder 3y is inserted into the waste toner inlet 32, and toner flows into and is stored inside the waste toner storage unit 12 from an opening (not shown) at the end of the toner discharge cylinder 3y. The structure for attaching and detaching the waste toner inlet 32 ​​to the toner discharge tube 3y and the structure for attaching and detaching the supply unit 22 to the toner receiving unit 4y may be the structure described in, for example, Patent Document 1.

[0040] 6, in Example 1, a first intermediate gear 34 as an example of a first intermediate transmission means is disposed diagonally below the conveying gear 27 on the outer surface of the outer wall 33 of the waste toner storage unit 12. The first intermediate gear 34 is in mesh with the conveying gear 27. A second intermediate gear 36, which is an example of a second intermediate transmission means, is disposed diagonally below the first intermediate gear 34. The second intermediate gear 36 meshes with the first intermediate gear 34. A transmitted gear 37, an example of a transmitted means, is disposed below the second intermediate gear 36. The transmitted gear 37 meshes with the second intermediate gear 36. The transmitted gear 37 in Example 1 is disposed with its lower end exposed below the lower end face 38 of the toner cartridge 1y. In the present specification and claims, the term "upper end face or lower end face" refers to the outermost surface of the upper or lower face of the new toner storage compartment or waste toner storage compartment of the cartridge. When the toner cartridge 1y is installed in the device main body U1, the transmitted gear 37 is configured to mesh with the main body gear 6y.

[0041] 3, 5, and 6, the toner cartridge 1y of Example 1 has an outer cover 41, which is an example of a protective means, disposed further outside the gears 24, 27, 34 to 37, i.e., further forward in the installation / removal direction of the toner cartridge 1y. The outer cover 41 covers the outside of the gears 24, 27, 34 to 37 and protects the gears 24, 27, 34 to 37 from contact with external members. The outer cover 41 of the first embodiment has a plurality of openings 41a, 41b, and 41c. The new toner storage unit 11 of the first embodiment has a bulging portion 42 bulging outward at a position corresponding to the openings 41a and 41b of the outer cover 41. The bulging portion 42 of the first embodiment is formed up to a position corresponding to the outer edge (outer surface) of the outer cover 41 in the attachment / detachment direction. Therefore, compared to a configuration without the bulging portion 42, it is possible to increase the amount of developer that can be stored inside the new toner storage unit 11. Furthermore, the waste toner storage unit 12 of the first embodiment has a bulging portion 43 bulging outward, similar to the bulging portion 42, formed at a position corresponding to the opening 41c of the outer cover 41. Therefore, compared to a configuration without the bulging portion 43, it is possible to increase the amount of developer that can be stored inside the waste toner storage unit 12.

[0042] A pair of upper and lower operation holes 46, which are an example of an operation means, are formed on the outside of the toner cartridge 1y in Example 1. A worker replacing the toner cartridge 1y can insert their thumb and index finger into the upper and lower holes of the operation holes 46, respectively, and pinch and pull the toner cartridge 1y toward themselves to remove it, or they can install it by pushing it inward.

[0043] 4, in the toner cartridge 1 of Example 1, a rotation-stopped recess 51, which is an example of a first rotation-stopped means, is formed in the lower part of the inner wall 31 of the waste toner storage compartment 12. The rotation-stopped recess 51 is disposed at a position corresponding to the rotation-stop protrusion 7y, and is configured as a cylindrical recess so that the rotation-stop protrusion 7y fits therein. A rotation-stopped protrusion 52, which is an example of a second rotation-stopped means, is formed on the inner wall 21b of the new toner accommodating portion 11. The rotation-stopped protrusion 52 is disposed at a position corresponding to the rotation-stopped recess 8y. The rotation-stopped protrusion 52 is formed in a cylindrical projection shape, and the outer diameter of the rotation-stopped protrusion 52 is formed so as to correspond to the minor axis of the long-hole-shaped rotation-stopped recess 8y.

[0044] In Example 1, a difference in size between the rotation-stopping protrusion 7y and the rotation-stopped recess 51 and between the rotation-stopping recess 8y and the rotation-stopped protrusion 52 is provided, which is also known as a "spatial margin," also known as a "clearance," "margin," or "play." That is, "spatial margin" and "play" refer to the size of the space within which the toner cartridge 1y can move relative to the device main body U1 when the toner cartridge 1y is positioned. A configuration without any "play" would result in problems such as the inability to install or remove the toner cartridge 1y due to large manufacturing or assembly errors, or poor workability, such as requiring precise manual alignment by an operator. Therefore, "play" is always provided. In Example 1, the play between the rotation-stopping protrusion 7y and the rotation-stopped recess 51 is set smaller than the play between the rotation-stopping recess 8y and the rotation-stopped protrusion 52. In addition, in the first embodiment, the protruding length of the rotation stopping projection 7y is longer than the protruding length of the rotation stopped projection 52. In addition, in the first embodiment, the length (depth) of the rotation stopped recess 51 is longer than the length of the rotation stopped projection 52.

[0045] (Function of Example 1) In the toner cartridges 1y to 1k of Example 1 having the above-described configuration, the transport auger 26 is positioned in the center in the vertical direction, and the driving force of the transport auger 26 is transmitted from the device main body U1 via a transmitted gear 37 exposed below the lower end face of the waste toner storage section 12. In the conventional configuration, the driving force is transmitted from the device main body U1 at the position of the conveying gear 27, and because of the presence of the device main body U1 components, it was not possible to provide components on the toner cartridge 1y side around the supply unit 22. In other words, in the conventional configuration, the entire transmission means, such as the rotating shaft and gears on the device main body side that transmits driving force to the conveying auger, was located inside the vertical end faces of the new toner storage unit or the waste toner storage unit. Therefore, there was a problem that it was structurally difficult to increase the capacity of the waste toner storage unit 12 due to the installation location of the transmission means on the device main body side. In contrast to this, in Example 1, the transmission gear 37 that receives drive from the device main body U1 is positioned below the lower end face of a portion of the toner cartridges 1y to 1k, and it is possible to increase the capacity of at least one of the storage means, the waste toner storage section 12, compared to the conventional configuration.

[0046] Furthermore, in the toner cartridges 1y to 1k of Example 1, the transport auger 26 is positioned at the lower end of the new toner storage section 11 and below the upper end of the waste toner storage section 12, making it possible to increase the capacity of the new toner storage section 11 compared to when the transport auger 26 is positioned higher than in the configuration of the example. Furthermore, in the toner cartridges 1y to 1k of Example 1, the transmitted gear 37 is positioned below the transport auger 26 and below the upper end of the waste toner storage compartment 12. In Example 1, the transport auger 26 is positioned below the vertical center of the toner cartridges 1y to 1k. If the transmitted gear 37 were to be installed at the upper end of the toner cartridges 1y to 1k, the number of intermediate gears would increase. In particular, the toner cartridges 1y to 1k, which are long in the vertical direction (the vertical direction is the longitudinal direction) as in Example 1, tend to require a large number of intermediate gears. Furthermore, if the transmitted gear 37 were to be installed at the upper end, the intermediate gear would need to be located on the outer surface of the new toner storage compartment 11, which would make it difficult to install the bulge 42 of the new toner storage compartment 11 and reduce the capacity of the new toner storage compartment 11. In contrast, in Example 1, the transmitted gear 37 is installed at the lower end, which prevents an increase in the number of parts and allows the capacity of the new toner storage compartment 11 to be increased.

[0047] Furthermore, in the toner cartridges 1y to 1k of Example 1, the waste toner inlet 32 ​​of the waste toner storage section 12 is positioned above the transport auger 26, which makes it possible to increase the capacity of the waste toner storage section 12 compared to a configuration in which the waste toner inlet 32 ​​is positioned below the transport auger 26. Furthermore, in the printer U of Example 1, the main body gears 6y-6k of the device main body U1 are arranged outside the lower end faces of the toner cartridges 1y-1k, which makes it possible to increase the capacity of the toner cartridges 1y-1k compared to when the main body gears 6y-6k are arranged inside the lower end faces of the toner cartridges 1y-1k.

[0048] Furthermore, the toner cartridges 1y to 1k of the first embodiment are provided with the outer cover 41, which reduces damage to the gears 24, 27, 34 to 37 when replacing or transporting the toner cartridges 1y to 1k compared to a configuration without the outer cover 41. Furthermore, in the toner cartridges 1y to 1k of Example 1, bulging portions 42 and 43 are formed corresponding to the openings 41a to 41c of the outer cover 41. Therefore, compared to when the bulging portions 42 and 43 are not provided, it is possible to increase the capacity of the new toner storage section 11 and the waste toner storage section 12.

[0049] 7A and 7B are explanatory diagrams of the operation of the first embodiment, in which FIG. 7A is an explanatory diagram of rotation along the rotation direction of the gear acting on the toner cartridge, and FIG. 7B is an explanatory diagram of rotation due to a reaction force along the radial direction of the gear. In FIG. 7A, in the toner cartridges 1y-1k of Example 1, when viewed from the installation / removal direction (as shown in FIGS. 2, 6, and 7A), the rotation-stopped recess 51 is located near the driven gear 37, and the rotation-stopped protrusion 52 is located far from the driven gear 37. When the driven gear 37 receives driving force from the main gears 6y-6k, the entire toner cartridges 1y-1k are subjected to a rotational force in the direction of rotation about the main gears 6y-6k. Therefore, without a rotation-stopping configuration, the toner cartridges 1y-1k may become loose, which may cause developer to leak from the supply port 22a or the waste toner inlet 32. In particular, with a vertically long configuration like the toner cartridges 1y-1k of Example 1, the distance from the driven gear 37 is likely to be long, which may increase the adverse effects of rotation. Furthermore, in a configuration where rotation is stopped at two locations, if the positioning configuration at the two locations is the same or if the distant positioning is performed with a smaller spatial margin, there may be a large amount of rattle due to driving. In contrast, the toner cartridges 1y to 1k of Example 1 have two rotation-stopping structures: a rotation-stopping protrusion 7y and a rotation-stopped recess 51, and a rotation-stopping recess 8y and a rotation-stopped protrusion 52. The rotation-stopping protrusion 7y and the rotation-stopped recess 51, which are closer to the transmitted gear 37, have smaller play. Therefore, even when a rotational force is applied from the main gear 6y to 6k, the rotation is stopped at a position close to the main gear 6y, and the small play also reduces rattle. Therefore, in the toner cartridges 1y to 1k, rattle can be reduced when drive is transmitted, compared to when there is no difference in spatial margin between the positioned portion and the positioned portion (when the spatial margin is equal) or when a positioning position farther away from the driving position is more strongly positioned (when the spatial margin is small), thereby reducing the adverse effects of rattle.

[0050] Furthermore, in the toner cartridges 1y to 1k of Example 1, the rotation-stopped protrusion 52 provided on the new toner accommodating portion 11 is formed in a protruding shape. If the rotation-stopping portion provided on the new toner accommodating portion 11 is concave, it will be recessed toward the inside of the new toner accommodating portion 11, which will result in a problem of a reduction in the capacity of the new toner accommodating portion 11. In contrast, in Example 1, the rotation-stopped protrusion 52 provided on the new toner accommodating portion 11 is protruding, which prevents a reduction in the capacity of the new toner accommodating portion 11. In addition, in the printer U of Example 1, the rotation-stop recesses 8y-8k on the device main body U1 side are formed as elongated holes that are long in the vertical direction. Therefore, rotation of the toner cartridges 1y-1k is suppressed in the short diameter direction of the elongated holes, and it is easy to ensure sufficient spatial margin and play in the long diameter direction. Therefore, compared to when there is less margin in the long diameter direction, it is possible to easily install and remove the toner cartridges 1y-1k.

[0051] Furthermore, in the toner cartridges 1y to 1k of Example 1, the rotation-stopped recessed portion 51 provided in the waste toner storage portion 12 is formed in a recessed shape. The frame of the manual feed tray TR1 is close to the rotation-stopped recessed portion 51 on the inside of the device main body U1, and there is little space left on the device main body U1 side. Therefore, if the rotation-stopped recessed portion 51 is configured to be recessed on the device main body U1 side, the overall size of the printer U will increase. In contrast, in Example 1, the rotation-stopped recessed portion 51 is formed in a recessed shape on the toner cartridges 1y to 1k side, which prevents the overall size of the printer U from increasing. In particular, the rotation-stopped recess 51 is provided on the waste toner storage section 12 side, not on the new toner storage section 11 side, and this prevents the volume of new toner from decreasing.

[0052] In FIG. 7B, in the toner cartridges 1y-1k of Example 1, the transmitted gear 37 is disposed on the outer side, near the front side, in the mounting / removal direction. Therefore, when the main gears 6y-6k rotate, the transmitted gear 37 receives a radial reaction force f1. Therefore, the toner cartridges 1y-1k receive a rotational force in the direction of arrow Y1 in FIG. 7B. This rotational force Y1 may have adverse effects, such as toner leakage. In contrast, in Example 1, the protrusion length of the rotation stop protrusion 7y, which is closer to the transmitted gear 37, is longer than the protrusion length of the rotation stop protrusion 52, which is farther from the transmitted gear 37. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the rotational force Y1 at a position closer to the position where the reaction force f1 is received.

[0053] (Example of change) Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above in detail, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and various modifications can be made within the scope of the gist of the present invention as set forth in the claims. Modifications (H01) to (H010) of the present invention are exemplified below. (H01) In the above embodiment, a printer U was used as an example of an image forming device, but this is not limited to this and it is also possible to configure it as, for example, a copier, a fax machine, or a multifunction device having multiple or all of these functions.

[0054] (H02) In the above embodiment, the transmitted gear 37 is disposed at the lower end of the toner cartridge 1y to 1k, but this is not limiting. It is also possible to dispose it at the upper end of the toner cartridge 1y to 1k. (H03) In the above embodiment, a configuration having four image forming devices UY to UK is exemplified, but the present invention is not limited to this and can also be applied to a configuration having image forming devices for two, three, or five or more colors. (H04) In the above embodiment, the gears 24, 27, 34 to 37 are configured to be installed on the front surface in the installation / removal direction of the toner cartridges 1y to 1k, but this is not limitative. They can also be installed on the back surface in the installation / removal direction.

[0055] (H05) In the above embodiment, it is desirable to provide the outer cover 41, but it is also possible to configure it without providing it. (H06) In the above embodiment, it is desirable that the positions of the transport auger 26 and the waste toner inlet 32 ​​are as shown in the example configuration, but the positions can be changed depending on the design, specifications, etc. (H07) In the above-described embodiment, the combination of the protrusions and recesses for preventing rotation is preferably the configuration exemplified in the embodiment, but is not limited to this. For example, it is possible for both of the rotation-stopped means on the toner cartridges 1y to 1k to be protrusion-shaped, or conversely, it is also possible for both of the rotation-stopped means to be recessed. It is also possible to reverse the arrangement of the protrusions and recesses from that of the embodiment.

[0056] Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram of modified examples of the rotation preventing means and the means to be prevented from rotation, where Figure 8A is an explanatory diagram of the case of a rib and a groove, Figure 8B is an explanatory diagram of the case of a notch and a block-shaped protrusion, and Figure 8C is an explanatory diagram of the case of a recess and a protrusion. (H08) In the above embodiment, the rotation stopping means and the rotation-stopped means are exemplified as being configured with protrusions and holes, but this is not limiting. For example, as shown in FIG. 8A, it is also possible to provide longitudinally extending ribs on one of the toner cartridges 1y-1k and the device main body U1, and grooves into which the ribs fit on the other, so that the rotation is stopped by the fit between the ribs and the grooves. Also, as shown in FIGS. 8B and 8C, it is also possible to provide cutouts 61 and recesses 62 on the toner cartridges 1y-1k, so that when the toner cartridges 1y-1k are attached to the device main body U1, block-shaped protrusions 63 on the device main body U1 come into contact with the cutouts 61 and recesses 62 to stop the rotation. It is also possible to provide cutouts 61 and recesses 62 on the device main body U1 side, and protrusions 63, 63′ on the toner cartridges 1y-1k side, as shown in FIGS. 8B and 8C.

[0057] (H09) In the above embodiment, it is desirable that the relationship between the lengths of the projections 7y and 52 be as shown in the example, but it is also possible to reverse the relationship or make them the same length. (H010) In the above embodiment, a configuration having a new toner storage section 11 and a waste toner storage section 12 has been exemplified, but this is not limiting. For example, it is also possible to use a developer storage container (toner cartridge) having only a new toner storage section 11, or a developer storage container (waste toner box) having only a waste toner storage section 12. [Explanation of symbols]

[0058] 1y, 1m, 1c, 1k...containers for developer, 7y, 7m, 7c, 7k...first rotation stopping means, 8y, 8m, 8c, 8k...second rotation stopping means, 11...first containing means, 11+12…containment means, 12...second containing means, 26... Means of transport, 37...Transmitted means, 51...first rotation-stopped means, 52...second rotation-stopping means, Gy, Gm, Gc, Gk...developing means, Py, Pm, Pc, Pk...image holding means, S...medium, T1y, T1m, T1c, T1k...transcription means, U...image forming device, U1: Main body of the image forming device.

Claims

1. a container for containing a developer; a conveying means for conveying the developer; a drive receiving means to which a drive force is transmitted from a transmission means of a main body of the image forming apparatus, the drive receiving means transmitting the drive force to the conveying means; Equipped with A developer container detachable from a main body of an image forming apparatus, The container is provided with a first rotation-stopped means and a second rotation-stopped means that is farther from the transmission means than the first rotation-stopped means, When the container is attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus, the first rotation-stopped means contacts a first rotation-stopping means provided on the main body of the image forming apparatus, and the second rotation-stopped means contacts a second rotation-stopping means provided on the main body of the image forming apparatus; The spatial margin between the first rotation-stopped means and the first rotation-stopping means is smaller than the spatial margin between the second rotation-stopped means and the second rotation-stopping means. A developer container comprising:

2. a container for containing a developer; a conveying means for conveying the developer; a drive receiving means to which a drive force is transmitted from a transmission means of a main body of the image forming apparatus, the drive receiving means transmitting the drive force to the conveying means; Equipped with A developer container detachable from a main body of an image forming apparatus, The container is provided with a first rotation-stopped means and a second rotation-stopped means, each of which is a recess or a protrusion, When the container is attached to the main body, the first rotation-stopped means and the second rotation-stopped means are fitted with the first rotation-stopping means and the second rotation-stopping means, which are each made of a convex portion or a concave portion, respectively; the depth or height of the first rotation-stopped means is smaller than the depth or height of the second rotation-stopped means; One of the first rotation-stopped means and the second rotation-stopped means is formed in a concave shape and the other is formed in a convex shape. A developer container comprising:

3. the container having a first container for containing new developer to be supplied to the main body of the image forming apparatus, and a second container for containing developer discharged from the main body of the image forming apparatus; Equipped with The first receiving means and the second receiving means are provided with the second rotation-stopped means and the first rotation-stopped means, respectively.

3. The developer container according to claim 1, wherein the developer container is a container for storing developer.

4. The upper end of the first container is disposed higher than the upper end of the second container; The second rotation-stopping means is formed in a convex shape that protrudes outward from the outer surface of the first containing means, and is fitted into the second rotation-stopping means that is formed in a concave shape when the containing container is attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus.

4. The developer container according to claim 3.

5. The second rotation stop means is formed in the shape of an elongated hole having a minor axis in the circumferential direction of the rotation of the transmitted means and a major axis in the radial direction.

5. The developer container according to claim 4.

6. The first rotation-stopping means is formed in a concave shape recessed inward from the outer surface of the storage means, and when the storage container is attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus, the first rotation-stopping means formed in a convex shape fits into the concave shape.

6. The developer container according to claim 1, wherein the developer container is a container for storing developer.

7. a storage means having a first storage means for storing new developer to be supplied to a main body of an image forming apparatus, and a second storage means for storing developer discharged from the main body of the image forming apparatus; The first rotation-stopped concave means is formed to be recessed inward of the second receiving means.

7. The developer container according to claim 6, wherein the developer container is a container for storing developer.

8. The length of the second rotation-stopped means is shorter than the length of the first rotation-stopped means along the direction in which the container is attached to and detached from the main body of the image forming apparatus.

7. The developer container according to claim 6, wherein the developer container is a container for storing developer.

9. The transmission receiving means is disposed at the outer end of the receiving means in the longitudinal direction.

9. The developer container according to claim 1, wherein the developer container is a container for storing developer.

10. Image holding means; a developing means for developing the latent image held on the image holding means; transfer means for transferring the developed image from the image bearing means to a medium; a developer container according to any one of claims 1 to 9, which contains new developer to be supplied to the developing means, the developer container being detachable from a main body of an image forming apparatus; An image forming apparatus comprising:

Images