Conveying device and image forming apparatus

Abstract

To prevent a pair of sandwiching members from failing to sandwich a conveyance object material.SOLUTION: A conveyance device comprises: a rotary member that rotates; a circulation member which is formed in an annular shape, is wound around the rotary member and circulates following the rotation of the rotary member; and a pair of sandwiching members which are attached to an attachment portion of the circulation member, circulate together with the circulation member, shift to an approaching state from a separation state where they are apart from each other and sandwich a conveyance object material entering a space between them in the separation state. The attachment portion of the circulation member is in contact with the rotary member when the conveyance object material starts to enter the space between the pair of sandwiching members in the separation state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses an image forming apparatus that includes a transfer section having a circular transfer belt on the outer surface of which an image is transferred, a transfer cylinder having a transfer area where a recording medium is sandwiched between the outer surface of the transfer belt and the transfer cylinder to transfer the image from the transfer belt to the recording medium, and a rotating body arranged on both axial ends of the transfer cylinder, a rotating member that is wrapped around the rotating body and rotates as the rotating body rotates, and a holding section that is attached to the rotating member, holds the recording medium, and transports the recording medium as the rotating member rotates, causing it to pass through the transfer area. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-140062 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The conveying device may be configured to include a rotating member such as a rotating sprocket, a circumferential member such as a chain that is wound around the rotating member and rotates as the rotating member rotates, and a pair of clamping members that are attached to an attachment portion of the circumferential member and rotate together with the circumferential member, transitioning from a separated state in which they are spaced apart to a close state, and clamping a conveyed material such as paper that enters between them in the separated state.

[0005] In this configuration, when the material to be conveyed begins to enter between the pair of clamping members that are spaced apart, if the mounting portion of the circumferential member is not in contact with the rotating member, the posture of the pair of clamping members is likely to fluctuate, and the pair of clamping members may fail to clamp the material to be conveyed. Note that "failing to clamp" in this case includes not only cases where clamping itself is not possible, but also cases where the clamping is not performed properly (for example, when the material to be conveyed is clamped in an inclined position, or when the clamping of the material to be conveyed is shallow or deep, etc.).

[0006] The present invention aims to prevent the pair of clamping members from failing to clamp the transported material when the transported material begins to enter between a pair of clamping members that are spaced apart, compared to a configuration in which the mounting portion of the circumferential member is not in contact with the rotating member. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The first aspect comprises a rotating rotating member, a circularly shaped circumferential member that is wrapped around the rotating member and rotates as the rotating member rotates, and a pair of clamping members that are attached to an attachment portion of the circumferential member and rotate together with the circumferential member, transitioning from a separated state in which they are spaced apart to a close state in which they clamp a transported material that enters between them in the separated state, and the attachment portion of the circumferential member is in contact with the rotating member when the transported material begins to enter between the pair of clamping members in the separated state.

[0008] In the second aspect, the mounting portion of the rotating member is in contact with the rotating member from the time the transported material begins to enter between the pair of clamping members in the separated state until the pair of clamping members begin to transition from the separated state to the close state.

[0009] In a third aspect, the mounting portion of the circulating member is in contact with the rotating member from the time the transported material begins to enter between the pair of clamping members in the separated state until the pair of clamping members clamp the transported material.

[0010] In a fourth aspect, the pair of clamping members transition from the close state to the separated state, then transition back to the close state to clamp the transported material that has entered between them in the separated state, and the attachment portion of the circulating member begins to contact the rotating member before the pair of clamping members complete their transition from the close state to the separated state.

[0011] The fifth aspect includes a limiting section that limits movement of the pair of clamping members away from a predetermined circular path from the time the transported material begins to enter between the pair of clamping members in the separated state until the pair of clamping members begin to transition from the separated state to the close state.

[0012] In a sixth aspect, the restricting section restricts the movement from when the transported material starts to enter between the pair of clamping members in the separated state until the pair of clamping members clamp the transported material.

[0013] The seventh aspect includes a guide portion that is arranged in a position that overlaps the pair of clamping members in the spaced-apart state when viewed in one direction along the rotational axis direction of the rotating member, and that guides the transported material between the pair of clamping members in the spaced-apart state.

[0014] In an eighth aspect, the guide section has a first guide member that guides one side of the transported material and a second guide member that guides the other side of the transported material, and the first guide member and the second guide member are arranged in a position that overlaps with the pair of clamping members in the separated state when viewed in the one direction.

[0015] In a ninth aspect, the guide portions and the portions of the pair of sandwiching members in the separated state that sandwich the material to be conveyed are alternately arranged in a plurality of positions along the one direction.

[0016] In a tenth aspect, the guide section has a first guide member that guides one side of the transported material and a second guide member that guides the other side of the transported material, and the first guide member, the second guide member, and the portions of the pair of clamping members in the separated state that clamp the transported material are arranged alternately along the one direction.

[0017] In an eleventh aspect, the guide portion is disposed at a position overlapping the rotating member when viewed in the one direction.

[0018] In a twelfth aspect, the pair of clamping members are arranged at positions overlapping the rotating member when viewed in the one direction.

[0019] The thirteenth aspect comprises a rotating sprocket, a chain formed in a ring shape and wound around the sprocket, which rotates as the sprocket rotates, and a pair of clamping members attached to links that make up the chain and rotate together with the chain, which transition from a separated state in which they are spaced apart to a close state in which they clamp a transported material that enters between them in the separated state, and the links are in contact with the sprocket when the transported material begins to enter between the pair of clamping members in the separated state.

[0020] A fourteenth aspect includes the conveying device according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, and an image forming section that forms an image on a recording medium as the material to be conveyed that is conveyed by the conveying device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0021] According to the configuration of the first aspect, when the transported material begins to enter between a pair of clamping members that are spaced apart, the pair of clamping members are less likely to fail to clamp the transported material, compared to a configuration in which the mounting portion of the circumferential member is not in contact with the rotating member.

[0022] According to the second configuration, the pair of clamping members are less likely to fail to clamp the transported material, compared to a configuration in which the mounting portion of the circumferential member contacts the rotating member only when the transported material begins to enter between a pair of clamping members that are spaced apart.

[0023] According to the configuration of the third aspect, the pair of clamping members are less likely to fail to clamp the transported material, compared to a configuration in which the mounting portion of the circumferential member contacts the rotating member only from the time the transported material begins to enter until the time the pair of clamping members begin to transition from a separated state to a close state.

[0024] According to the fourth aspect of the configuration, the pair of clamping members are less likely to fail to clamp the transported material, compared to a configuration in which the mounting portion of the circumferential member contacts the rotating member only when the transported material begins to enter between a pair of clamping members that are spaced apart.

[0025] According to the configuration of the fifth aspect, the pair of clamping members are less likely to fail to clamp the transported material from the time the transported material begins to enter between the pair of clamping members that are spaced apart until the entry is completed, compared to a configuration in which the pair of clamping members are free to move off the predetermined circular path.

[0026] According to the configuration of the sixth aspect, the pair of clamping members are less likely to fail to clamp the transported material, compared to a configuration in which the movement of the pair of clamping members is restricted from deviating from a predetermined circular path only from the time the transported material begins to enter between the pair of clamping members in a separated state until the pair of clamping members begin to transition from the separated state to the close state.

[0027] According to the configuration of the seventh aspect, the pair of clamping members are less likely to fail to clamp the transported material compared to a configuration in which the guide portion is positioned at a position offset from the pair of clamping members in a separated state when viewed in one direction along the axial direction of the rotating member.

[0028] According to the configuration of the eighth aspect, the pair of clamping members are less likely to fail to clamp the transported material compared to a configuration in which, when viewed in one direction, only one of the first guide member and the second guide member is positioned in a position that overlaps with a pair of clamping members that are spaced apart.

[0029] According to the configuration of the ninth aspect, the guide portion is arranged only on one side of the portion of the pair of clamping members that are separated from each other and that clamp the transported material, thereby reducing the likelihood that the pair of clamping members will fail to clamp the transported material.

[0030] According to the configuration of the 10th aspect, the pair of clamping members are less likely to fail to clamp the transported material, compared to a configuration in which only one of the first guide member and the second guide member is arranged alternately with the portion of the pair of clamping members that clamps the transported material.

[0031] According to the configuration of the eleventh aspect, the device can be made smaller than a configuration in which the guide portion is disposed at a position offset from the rotating member when viewed in one direction.

[0032] According to the configuration of the twelfth aspect, the device can be made smaller than a configuration in which the pair of clamping members are arranged at positions offset from the rotating member when viewed in one direction.

[0033] According to the configuration of the 13th aspect, when the transported material begins to enter between a pair of clamping members that are spaced apart, the pair of clamping members are less likely to fail to clamp the transported material, compared to a configuration in which the chain links are not engaged with the sprocket.

[0034] According to the configuration of the 14th aspect, the mounting portion of the circumferential member in the conveying device is not in contact with the rotating member when the material to be conveyed begins to enter between a pair of clamping members that are in a separated state, thereby reducing the possibility of poor conveying of the recording medium compared to a configuration in which the mounting portion of the circumferential member in the conveying device is not in contact with the rotating member when the material to be conveyed begins to enter between a pair of clamping members that are in a separated state. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0035] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a rotating body and its surroundings according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 is a perspective view showing a chain according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the gripper according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a gripper, a sprocket, and a media guide unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 5A to 5C are cross-sectional views showing a series of operations for transferring a recording medium to a gripper according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] 5A to 5C are cross-sectional views showing a series of operations for transferring a recording medium to a gripper according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] 5A to 5C are cross-sectional views showing a series of operations for transferring a recording medium to a gripper according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] 5A to 5C are cross-sectional views showing a series of operations for transferring a recording medium to a gripper according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] 5A to 5C are cross-sectional views showing a series of operations for transferring a recording medium to a gripper according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] 5A to 5C are cross-sectional views showing a series of operations for transferring a recording medium to a gripper according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] 5A to 5C are cross-sectional views showing a series of operations for transferring a recording medium to a gripper according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0036] An example of an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. First Embodiment (Image forming device 10) First, a description will be given of the configuration of an image forming apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment. Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an image forming apparatus 10 according to this embodiment.

[0037] In addition, the arrow UP shown in the figure indicates the top (vertically upward) of the device, and the arrow DO indicates the bottom (vertically downward) of the device. Also, the arrow LH shown in the figure indicates the left side of the device, and the arrow RH indicates the right side of the device. Also, the arrow FR shown in the figure indicates the front of the device, and the arrow RR indicates the rear of the device. These directions are defined for the convenience of explanation, and the device configuration is not limited to these directions. In addition, in each direction of the device, the word "device" may be omitted. That is, for example, "above the device" may be simply expressed as "above."

[0038] In the following description, the "up-down direction" may mean "both above and below" or "either above or below." The "left-right direction" may mean "both right and left" or "either right or left." The "left-right direction" may also be referred to as the lateral direction or horizontal direction. The "front-rear direction" may also be referred to as "both forward and backward" or "either forward or backward." The front-rear direction corresponds to the width direction of the recording medium P described below and the axial direction of the sprocket 37 described below, and may also be referred to as the lateral direction or horizontal direction. The up-down direction, left-right direction, and front-rear direction are directions that intersect with each other (specifically, directions that are perpendicular to each other).

[0039] In addition, the symbol "x" inside a "circle" in the figure indicates an arrow pointing from the front to the back of the page. In addition, the symbol "·" inside a "circle" in the figure indicates an arrow pointing from the back to the front of the page.

[0040] The image forming apparatus 10 shown in Fig. 1 is an inkjet type image forming apparatus that forms an ink image (one example of an image) on a recording medium P. Specifically, the image forming apparatus 10 includes an image forming unit 14 and a conveying device 12. As an example of the recording medium P, paper P is used. Below, each part of the image forming apparatus 10 (the image forming unit 14 and the conveying device 12) will be described.

[0041] (Image forming unit 14) The image forming unit 14 has a function of forming an ink image on the conveyed recording medium P. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 1, the image forming unit 14 has ejection units 14Y, 14M, 14C, and 14K (hereinafter referred to as 14Y to 14K) that eject ink to predetermined ejection positions.

[0042] The discharge sections 14Y to 14K are arranged in this order toward the downstream side in the transport direction of the recording medium P. Furthermore, the discharge sections 14Y to 14K have a length along the width direction of the recording medium P. Note that the width direction of the recording medium P is a direction that intersects with the transport direction (specifically, a direction perpendicular to it) and is a direction along the front-to-rear direction.

[0043] In the image forming unit 14, the ejection units 14Y to 14K eject ink droplets onto the recording medium P transported by the transport device 12 using a known method such as a thermal method or a piezoelectric method, thereby forming an ink image on the recording medium P.

[0044] (Transportation device 12) The conveying device 12 shown in Fig. 1 is a device that conveys a recording medium P. As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the conveying device 12 includes a rotating body 50, a pair of sprockets 25, 37, and 45, a pair of chains 22, a gripper 24, and a delivery mechanism 60 (see Fig. 6).

[0045] The recording medium P is an example of a "material to be conveyed." The pair of sprockets 37 is an example of a "rotating member." The pair of chains 22 is an example of a "circulating member." The claw 26 and claw base 27 (see FIG. 4) provided on the gripper 24, which will be described later, are an example of a "pair of clamping members."

[0046] 1 shows one of the pair of chains 22 and one of the pair of sprockets 25, 37, 45. Also, in FIG. 1, the chain 22 and the gripper 24 are shown in a simplified form. Furthermore, in FIG. 2, the gripper 24 is shown in a simplified form.

[0047] 1, the rotor 50 is disposed opposite the discharge portions 14Y to 14K. The rotor 50 is formed in a circular shape when viewed from the rear, and has a recess 54 on its outer circumferential surface. The recess 54 is provided on one portion of the outer circumferential surface of the rotor 50 in the circumferential direction. Furthermore, the recess 54 is elongated along the axial direction of the rotor 50, and has a depth along the radial direction of the rotor 50.

[0048] The rear view refers to a view of an object (here, the rotating body 50) from the front toward the rear of the object. In other words, the rear view refers to a view of the object from the rear as a direction along the rotational axis of the pair of sprockets 37.

[0049] As shown in Fig. 2, the pair of sprockets 25 are provided on both axial ends of the rotating body 50. The pair of sprockets 25 are arranged coaxially with the rotating body 50 and are configured to rotate integrally with the rotating body 50. The rotating body 50 and the pair of sprockets 25 are rotationally driven by a drive unit (not shown).

[0050] 1, the pair of sprockets 45 are disposed to the left (i.e., downstream in the conveying direction) of the pair of sprockets 25. The pair of sprockets 45 are disposed with a gap between them in the front-rear direction.

[0051] The pair of sprockets 37 are disposed below the pair of sprockets 25 and the pair of sprockets 45, and on the left side of the pair of sprockets 25 (i.e., on the pair of sprockets 45 side). The pair of sprockets 37 are disposed with a gap in the front-to-rear direction.

[0052] As shown in Fig. 1, the pair of chains 22 is formed in a loop. As shown in Fig. 2, the pair of chains 22 is arranged with a gap in the front-to-rear direction. Each of the pair of chains 22 is wound around each of the pair of sprockets 25, 37, 45. In other words, each of the pair of chains 22 is in mesh with each of the pair of sprockets 25, 37, 45.

[0053] Then, the rotating body 50 and the pair of sprockets 25 are rotated integrally in the rotation direction B (arrow B direction), so that the pair of sprockets 37, 45 rotate while the pair of chains 22 revolves in the circumferential direction C (arrow C direction). In other words, the pair of chains 22 revolves as the pair of sprockets 25, 37, 45 rotate.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 3 , the chain 22 is configured by alternately connecting a plurality of inner links 71 and a plurality of outer links 72. Each inner link 71 has two inner plates 73, two bushings 75, and two rollers 77. The two bushings 75 are press-fitted into two holes 79 formed in the two inner plates 73. The two rollers 77 are rotatably supported on the outer peripheries of the two bushings 75. Each outer link 72 has two outer plates 74 and two pins 76. The two pins 76 are press-fitted into two holes 78 formed in the two outer plates 74. In the chain 22, the bushings 75 are disposed on the outer periphery of the pins 76, and the rollers 77 are disposed on the outer periphery of the bushings 75. In the chain 22, each of the inner links 71 and outer links 72 meshes with the teeth of each of the sprockets 25, 37, and 45.

[0055] The gripper 24 shown in Figures 4 and 5 functions as a holding section that holds the leading end of the recording medium P (see Figures 4, 11 and 12). As shown in Figure 1, a plurality of grippers 24 are arranged on the chain 22 at intervals along the circumferential direction C of the chain 22. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the gripper 24 has an attachment member 23, a claw 26, a claw base 27 and a shaft 29.

[0056] The shaft 29 is disposed between the pair of chains 22 along the front-to-rear direction from one of the pair of chains 22 to the other. That is, the shaft 29 is an axle portion whose axial direction is the front-to-rear direction. Note that Figs. 4 and 5 show only a portion of the chain 22.

[0057] The pair of mounting members 23 are members attached to the chains 22. The pair of mounting members 23 are located between the pair of chains 22, and are disposed at one end (specifically, the rear end) and the other end (specifically, the front end) in the axial direction of the shaft 29. The pair of mounting members 23 support the shaft 29 rotatably.

[0058] Each of the pair of mounting members 23 has a mounting portion 23A extending axially outward (i.e., toward the chain 22). This mounting portion 23A is attached to a single outer link 72 of the chain 22. That is, the gripper 24 is attached to the single outer link 72 by the mounting member 23. That is, the gripper 24 is fixed to the chain 22 by the mounting member 23. As a result, the gripper 24 rotates together with the chain 22. Hereinafter, the outer link 72 to which the mounting member 23 is attached will be referred to as the mounting link 72A. This mounting link 72A is an example of an "attachment portion."

[0059] 5 shows the pair of mounting members 23, one of which is arranged at one axial end (specifically, the rear end) of the shaft 29, but another mounting member 23 is also arranged at the other axial end (specifically, the front end) of the shaft 29. The mounting member 23 arranged on the front end side of the shaft 29 is similarly attached to the chain 22 arranged on the front end side of the shaft 29.

[0060] The claw base 27 extends in the front-to-rear direction between the pair of mounting members 23 from one to the other of the pair of mounting members 23. One end and the other end of the claw base 27 in the longitudinal direction are each fixed to the mounting members 23 by fastening members 28 such as bolts.

[0061] The claw base 27 has a main body 27B extending in the front-rear direction and protruding portions 27A protruding downward in Figures 4 and 5. As shown in Figure 5, a plurality of protruding portions 27A are formed at intervals along the longitudinal direction of the main body 27B. The protruding portions 27A and the claws 26 are an example of a "portion that clamps the transported material."

[0062] On the other hand, a plurality of pawls 26 are arranged at intervals along the axial direction of shaft 29. Specifically, pawls 26 are arranged at positions facing protruding portion 27A of pawl base 27. Pawls 26 are opened and closed relative to pawl base 27 (specifically, protruding portion 27A) by rotating (specifically, rotating forward and backward) integrally with shaft 29, which is rotatably supported by mounting member 23. In other words, pawls 26 and pawl base 27 can be shifted between a separated state (the state shown in FIGS. 8 and 9) in which they are separated from each other, and a close state (the state shown in FIGS. 4, 6, 7, 11, and 12) in which they are close to each other.

[0063] In the gripper 24, for example, the claw 26 is pressed against the claw base 27 by the elastic force of an elastic member 21 such as a spring, causing the claw 26 and the claw base 27 to approach each other, and then, due to the action of a cam or the like, the claw 26 and the claw base 27 move to a separated state against the elastic force.

[0064] Then, in the gripper 24, the claws 26 and the claw base 27 transition from a separated state (the state shown in FIGS. 8 and 9) to a close state (the state shown in FIG. 11), and in the separated state, they pinch the recording medium P that has entered between them (see FIG. 11). As a result, the gripper 24 holds the leading end of the recording medium P.

[0065] In the conveying device 12, the delivery mechanism 60 delivers the recording medium P sent from a storage unit (not shown) that stores the recording medium P to the gripper 24 in a delivery area located upstream of the discharge positions of the discharge units 14Y to 14K. The gripper 24 holds the leading end of the recording medium P delivered from the delivery mechanism 60.

[0066] Furthermore, as the chain 22 rotates, the gripper 24 holding the leading end of the recording medium P moves in an arc along the outer periphery of the sprocket 25 and the rotating body 50 (see FIG. 1). As a result, the recording medium P is placed on the outer periphery of the rotating body 50.

[0067] The gripper 24 holds the leading end of the recording medium P placed on the outer circumferential surface of the rotating body 50 and rotates together with the chain 22 while being inserted into the recess 54. As a result, the recording medium P passes the discharge positions of the discharge units 14Y to 14K, and ink droplets are discharged from the discharge units 14Y to 14K onto the recording medium P placed on the outer circumferential surface of the rotating body 50, forming an image.

[0068] (Delivery Mechanism 60) The delivery mechanism 60 is a mechanism that delivers the recording medium P sent from a storage unit (not shown) in which the recording medium P is stored to the gripper 24.

[0069] Here, a transfer area where the recording medium P is transferred to the gripper 24 is set in the rotation path of the gripper 24. As shown in FIGS. 7 to 12, the gripper 24 is in a state where each of the pair of attachment links 72A meshes with each of the pair of sprockets 37 in the transfer area. In other words, the transfer area is set in a region of the rotation path of the gripper 24 where each of the pair of attachment links 72A meshes with each of the pair of sprockets 37. Furthermore, the transfer area is set on the outer periphery of the pair of sprockets 37 in the rotation path of the gripper 24. Note that FIGS. 6 to 12 show the rearward-located attachment link 72A of the pair of attachment links 72A and the rearward-located sprocket 37 of the pair of sprockets 37. FIG. 6 also shows a state immediately before the gripper 24 moves to the transfer area, i.e., a state where the gripper 24 is located upstream of the transfer area in the rotation direction. In FIG. 6, each of the pair of mounting links 72A is not engaged with each of the pair of sprockets 37.

[0070] 7 to 12, the gripper 24 is disposed in the transfer area at a position where the claws 26 and the claw bases 27 overlap a pair of sprockets 37 in a rear view. Note that "overlapping with the sprockets 37" refers to a state in which the gripper 24 is disposed on the inner circumferential side of the tip circle of the sprocket 37 (the circle indicated by the dashed dotted line 37L in FIGS. 6 to 12). In this embodiment, at least the claws 26 and the claw bases 27 of the gripper 24 overlap with the sprockets 37 in a close state in which the recording medium P is sandwiched (the state shown in FIGS. 11 and 12).

[0071] Furthermore, in the transfer area of ​​the gripper 24, the claws 26 and the claw base 27 transition from a close state (the state shown in FIG. 7) to a separated state (the state shown in FIGS. 8 and 9), and then transition from the separated state (the state shown in FIGS. 8 and 9) to a close state (the state shown in FIG. 11). Specifically, for example, by the action of a cam (not shown) disposed on the rotation shaft 37A of the sprocket 37, the claws 26 move in directions toward and away from the claw base 27 in the transfer area. This causes the claws 26 and the claw base 27 to transition from the close state to the separated state and from the separated state to the close state. Note that the claws 26 and the claw base 27 may transition from the close state to the separated state upstream of the transfer area in the rotation direction, and then move to the transfer area while maintaining the separated state. As shown in FIG. 6, the claws 26 and the claw bases 27 are in a close proximity to each other when the gripper 24 is on the upstream side of the transfer area in the rotation direction, and move to the transfer area while maintaining the close proximity.

[0072] 10, in the delivery area, the delivery mechanism 60 causes the leading end of the recording medium P (i.e., the downstream end in the conveying direction) to enter between the separated claws 26 and the claw base 27. Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 6 to 12, the delivery mechanism 60 has a conveying unit 62, a medium guide unit 90, and a gripper guide unit 80.

[0073] The conveying unit 62 conveys the recording medium P to the delivery area in accordance with the timing at which the claws 26 and claw base 27 of the gripper 24 pass through the delivery area so that the recording medium P enters between the claws 26 and claw base 27, which are separated in the delivery area. The passing timing is determined, for example, by detecting the gripper 24 with a detection unit such as a sensor on the upstream side of the delivery area in the rotation direction, and from the distance between the detection position and the delivery area and the rotation speed of the gripper 24. Specifically, the conveying unit 62 is composed of conveying members such as a conveying roll and a conveying belt that convey the recording medium P.

[0074] The medium guide unit 90 has the function of guiding the recording medium P transported by the transport unit 62 to between the claws 26 and the claw base 27 in the separated state. As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the medium guide unit 90 is disposed at a position where it overlaps with the claws 26 and the claw base 27 in the separated state when viewed from behind. Note that "the medium guide unit 90 overlaps with the claws 26 and the claw base 27 in the separated state when viewed from behind" refers to a state where a part of the movement trajectory of the claws 26 and the claw base 27 in the separated state when the gripper 24 rotates overlaps with the medium guide unit 90 when viewed from behind.

[0075] Specifically, the medium guide unit 90 has a first guide member 91 that guides the upper surface (an example of one surface) of the recording medium P, and a second guide member 92 that guides the lower surface (an example of the other surface) of the recording medium P. Both the first guide member 91 and the second guide member 92 are disposed in positions that overlap the claws 26 and claw bases 27 in the separated state when viewed from behind.

[0076] Specifically, the tip portions of the first guide member 91 and the second guide member 92 (i.e., the downstream end portion in the conveying direction, the right end portion, and the protrusion portions 91B, 92B (see Figure 5)) are positioned so as to overlap with the separated claw 26 and claw base 27.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 5, the first guide member 91 and the second guide member 92 are formed in a comb-like shape. The first guide member 91 and the second guide member 92 have main bodies 91A and 92A and protruding portions 91B and 92B. The main bodies 91A and 92A are formed in a rectangular shape that is long in the front-rear direction in a plan view. The length of the main bodies 91A and 92A in the front-rear direction is longer than the length of the maximum-size recording medium P in the front-rear direction (i.e., the width direction). The length of the protruding portions 91B and 92B in the front-rear direction is shorter than the length of the main bodies 91A and 92A in the front-rear direction and shorter than the length of the minimum-size recording medium P in the front-rear direction (i.e., the width direction).

[0078] The protrusions 91B, 92B protrude from the main bodies 91A, 92A downstream in the transport direction (i.e., to the right). A plurality of the protrusions 91B, 92B are arranged at intervals in the front-to-rear direction. That is, a gap 93 is formed between each of the protrusions 91B, 92B in the front-to-rear direction. A plurality of the protrusions 91B, 92B and the separated claws 26 and claw bases 27 (specifically, the protrusions 27A) in the medium guide section 90 are arranged alternately in the front-to-rear direction.

[0079] 6 to 12, the medium guide unit 90 is disposed in a position overlapping with the pair of sprockets 37 in a rear view. Specifically, both the first guide member 91 and the second guide member 92 are disposed in a position overlapping with the pair of sprockets 37. Even more specifically, the tip portions of the first guide member 91 and the second guide member 92 (i.e., the downstream end portion in the conveying direction, the right end portion, and protrusions 91B, 92B (see FIG. 5)) are disposed in a position overlapping with the pair of sprockets 37.

[0080] It can also be said that the first guide member 91 and the second guide member 92 come into contact with the upper and lower surfaces of the recording medium P, respectively, and restrict the recording medium P from moving out of a predetermined transport path.

[0081] (Engagement period of mounting link 72A with sprocket 37) As described above, in the delivery area where the attachment link 72A and the sprocket 37 are in mesh with each other, the delivery mechanism 60 inserts the recording medium P between the separated claw 26 and the claw base 27. As a result, the meshing period during which the attachment link 72A and the sprocket 37 are in mesh with each other is determined as follows.

[0082] The attachment link 72A meshes with the sprocket 37 at least when the recording medium P starts to enter between the claw 26 and the claw base 27 in the separated state (see FIG. 9). Specifically, the attachment link 72A meshes with the sprocket 37 from the time when the recording medium P starts to enter between the claw 26 and the claw base 27 in the separated state until the claw 26 and the claw base 27 start to transition from the separated state to the close state (see FIG. 10).

[0083] More specifically, the mounting link 72A engages with the sprocket 37 from the time the recording medium P begins to enter between the separated claw 26 and the claw base 27 until the recording medium P is sandwiched between the claw 26 and the claw base 27 (see Figure 11).

[0084] Furthermore, the attachment link 72A starts to mesh with the sprocket 37 (see FIG. 7) before the transition of the pawl 26 and the pawl base 27 from the close state to the separate state (the state shown in FIG. 8) is complete. Specifically, the pawl 26 and the pawl base 27 start to mesh with the sprocket 37 in the close state before starting to transition to the separate state (see FIG. 7).

[0085] To summarize, the mounting link 72A begins to engage with the sprocket 37 when the claw 26 and the claw base 27 are in a close proximity state (see Figure 7), and after the claw 26 and the claw base 27 move from a close proximity state to a separated state (see Figure 8), it continues to engage with the sprocket 37 until it pinches the recording medium P that has entered between the claw 26 and the claw base 27 in the separated state (see Figure 11).

[0086] The mounting link 72A meshes with the sprocket 37 and thereby comes into contact with the sprocket 37. Therefore, the meshing of the mounting link 72A with the sprocket 37 can also be referred to as the contact of the mounting link 72A with the sprocket 37, and the meshing period can also be referred to as the contact period.

[0087] (Gripper guide 80) The gripper guide portion 80 has a function of guiding the gripper 24. Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 6 to 12, the gripper guide portion 80 is configured with guide grooves 87 formed in side walls 86 disposed between each of the pair of sprockets 37 and the gripper 24. The guide grooves 87 guide guided rolls 89, which serve as guided portions and are coaxially provided at one end and the other end of the shaft 29 in the axial direction. Specifically, the guided roll 89 is inserted into the guide groove 87, and guide surfaces 87A formed on the edges of the guide groove 87 guide the guided roll 89, thereby restricting movement of the gripper 24, including the jaws 26 and jaw bases 27, from deviating from a predetermined circular path (see arrow X).

[0088] Specifically, the gripper guide portion 80 restricts the movement of the gripper 24, including the claws 26 and the claw base 27, from deviating from the predetermined circular path (see arrow X) from the time when the recording medium P begins to enter between the claws 26 and the claw base 27 (see Figure 9) until the claws 26 and the claw base 27 begin to transition from a separated state to an approaching state (see Figure 10).

[0089] More specifically, the gripper guide portion 80 restricts the movement of the gripper 24, including the claws 26 and the claw base 27, from deviating from the predetermined circular path (see arrow X) from the time the recording medium P begins to enter between the claws 26 and the claw base 27 (see Figure 9) until the claws 26 and the claw base 27 clamp the recording medium P (see Figure 11).

[0090] In this embodiment, the gripper guide portion 80 begins to engage with the sprocket 37 when the claws 26 and the claw base 27 are in a close proximity state, and after the claws 26 and the claw base 27 transition from a close proximity state to a separated state, it restricts the movement of the gripper 24 including the claws 26 and the claw base 27 from deviating from the predetermined circular path (see arrow X) until the recording medium P that has entered between the claws 26 and the claw base 27 in the separated state is clamped.

[0091] (Operation according to the first embodiment) Next, the operation of the first embodiment will be described.

[0092] According to the configuration of this embodiment, the attachment link 72A meshes with the sprocket 37 when the recording medium P begins to enter between the claws 26 and the claw base 27 in the separated state (see FIG. 9). Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the attachment link 72A is not meshed with the sprocket 37 (i.e., a non-contact configuration) when the recording medium P begins to enter between the claws 26 and the claw base 27 in the separated state, the posture of the gripper 24 including the claws 26 and the claw base 27 is less likely to fluctuate, and the claws 26 and the claw base 27 are less likely to fail to grip the recording medium P. As a result, poor conveyance of the recording medium P is suppressed.

[0093] Specifically, according to the configuration of this embodiment, the attachment link 72A meshes with the sprocket 37 from the time when the recording medium P starts to enter between the claw 26 and the claw base 27 in the separated state until the claw 26 and the claw base 27 start to transition from the separated state to the close state (see FIG. 10). Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the attachment link 72A meshes with the sprocket 37 only when the recording medium P starts to enter between the claw 26 and the claw base 27 in the separated state, the claw 26 and the claw base 27 are less likely to fail to clamp the recording medium P.

[0094] More specifically, according to the configuration of this embodiment, the attachment link 72A meshes with the sprocket 37 from the time when the recording medium P starts to enter between the claw 26 and the claw base 27 in the separated state until the claw 26 and the claw base 27 sandwich the recording medium P (see FIG. 11). Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the attachment link 72A meshes with the sprocket 37 only from the time when the recording medium P starts to enter between the claw 26 and the claw base 27 in the separated state until the claw 26 and the claw base 27 start to transition from the separated state to the close state, the claw 26 and the claw base 27 are less likely to fail to sandwich the recording medium P.

[0095] Furthermore, according to the configuration of this embodiment, the attachment link 72A starts to mesh with the sprocket 37 (see FIG. 7) before the claw 26 and the claw base 27 have completely transitioned from the close state to the separated state (the state shown in FIG. 8). Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the attachment link 72A meshes with the sprocket 37 only when the recording medium P begins to enter between the claw 26 and the claw base 27 in the separated state, the claw 26 and the claw base 27 are less likely to fail to clamp the recording medium P.

[0096] Furthermore, according to the configuration of this embodiment, the gripper guide unit 80 restricts movement of the gripper 24, including the claws 26 and the claw base 27, from deviating from the predetermined circular path (see arrow X) from the time when the recording medium P starts to enter between the claws 26 and the claw base 27 (see FIG. 9) until the claws 26 and the claw base 27 start to transition from the separated state to the approached state (see FIG. 10). Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the gripper 24, including the claws 26 and the claw base 27, is free to move deviating from the predetermined circular path (see arrow X) from the time when the recording medium P starts to enter between the claws 26 and the claw base 27 (see FIG. 9) until the claws 26 and the claw base 27 start to transition from the separated state to the approached state (see FIG. 10), the posture of the gripper 24, including the claws 26 and the claw base 27, is less likely to fluctuate, and the claws 26 and the claw base 27 are less likely to fail to grip the recording medium P.

[0097] Specifically, according to the configuration of this embodiment, the gripper guide unit 80 restricts movement of the gripper 24, including the claws 26 and the claw base 27, from deviating from the predetermined circular path (see arrow X) from the time when the recording medium P starts to enter between the claws 26 and the claw base 27 (see FIG. 9) until the claws 26 and the claw base 27 clamp the recording medium P (see FIG. 11). Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the gripper guide unit 80 restricts movement of the gripper 24, including the claws 26 and the claw base 27, from deviating from the predetermined circular path (see arrow X) only from the time when the recording medium P starts to enter between the claws 26 and the claw base 27 (see FIG. 9) until the claws 26 and the claw base 27 start to transition from the separated state to the approached state (see FIG. 10), the claws 26 and the claw base 27 are less likely to fail to clamp the recording medium P.

[0098] 9 and 10, in a rear view, the medium guide unit 90 is disposed at a position overlapping the claws 26 and claw base 27 in the separated state. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the medium guide unit 90 is disposed at a position offset from the claws 26 and claw base 27 in the separated state (for example, at a position distant to the left of the claws 26 and claw base 27 in the separated state), the recording medium P can be guided until the claws 26 and claw base 27 pinch the recording medium P, and the claws 26 and claw base 27 are prevented from failing to pinch the recording medium P. Note that "a configuration in which the medium guide unit 90 is disposed at a position offset from the claws 26 and claw base 27 in the separated state in a rear view" refers to a configuration in which the claws 26 and claw base 27 in the separated state, which rotate together with the chain 22, do not pass through a position overlapping with the medium guide unit 90.

[0099] Furthermore, according to the configuration of this embodiment, both the first guide member 91 and the second guide member 92 are positioned to overlap the claws 26 and claw base 27 in the separated state when viewed from the rear. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which only one of the first guide member 91 and the second guide member 92 is positioned to overlap the claws 26 and claw base 27 in the separated state when viewed from the rear, it is possible to guide both sides of the recording medium P until the claws 26 and claw base 27 sandwich the recording medium P, and it is possible to prevent the claws 26 and claw base 27 from failing to sandwich the recording medium P.

[0100] Furthermore, according to the configuration of this embodiment, the medium guide section 90 and the claws 26 and claw bases 27 (specifically, the protrusions 27A) in the separated state are alternately arranged in multiple locations along the front-to-rear direction. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the medium guide section 90 is arranged only on one side in the front-to-rear direction of the claws 26 and claw bases 27 in the separated state, the claws 26 and claw bases 27 are less likely to fail to clamp the recording medium P. Furthermore, because the medium guide section 90 and the claws 26 and claw bases 27 in the separated state are alternately arranged in multiple locations along the front-to-rear direction, interference between the medium guide section 90 and the claws 26 and claw bases 27 in the separated state is reduced.

[0101] Furthermore, according to the configuration of this embodiment, both of the protrusions 91B, 92B and the separated claws 26 and claw bases 27 (specifically, the protrusions 27A) are alternately arranged in multiple locations along the front-to-rear direction. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which only one of the protrusions 91B, 92B and the separated claws 26 and claw bases 27 are alternately arranged in multiple locations along the front-to-rear direction, the claws 26 and claw bases 27 are less likely to fail to clamp the recording medium P.

[0102] Furthermore, according to the configuration of this embodiment, the medium guide unit 90 is disposed in a position overlapping the pair of sprockets 37 in a rear view, as shown in Figures 6 to 12. This allows for a more compact device than a configuration in which the medium guide unit 90 is disposed in a position offset from the pair of sprockets 37 in a rear view.

[0103] 7 to 12, the gripper 24 is disposed in the transfer area at a position where the claws 26 and the claw base 27 overlap the pair of sprockets 37 in a rear view. This allows for a more compact device than a configuration in which the claws 26 and the claw base 27 are disposed at positions offset from the pair of sprockets 37 in a rear view.

[0104] (Variation) In this embodiment, the chain 22 is used as an example of the circumferential member, and the sprockets 25, 37, and 45 are used as an example of the rotating member, but this is not limiting. For example, a timing belt having an irregular inner circumference may be used as an example of the circumferential member, and a timing pulley (i.e., a pulley having an irregular outer circumference) may be used as an example of the rotating member. Furthermore, a belt may be used as an example of the circumferential member, and a pulley that rotates the belt by friction may be used as an example of the rotating member. In this configuration, the pulley rotates in contact with the belt, rather than meshing with it, causing the belt to rotate. In this configuration, the attachment portion of the belt where the gripper 24 is attached comes into contact with the pulley when the recording medium P begins to enter between the claws 26 and the claw base 27, which are in the separated state.

[0105] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the gripper 24 is attached to a single link of the chain 22, but this is not limiting. The gripper 24 may be attached to multiple links of the chain 22. In this case, it is sufficient that at least one of the multiple links is engaged with the sprocket 37 when the recording medium P begins to enter between the claws 26 and the claw base 27 in the separated state.

[0106] Although paper P is used as a recording medium P as an example of a material to be transported, this is not limiting. For example, a resin film, a metal film, or the like may be used as an example of the recording medium P, as long as it is a recording medium that can be transported. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a recording medium P on which an image is formed is used as an example of a material to be transported, but this is not limiting. For example, an example of a material to be transported may be a material that is transported for the purpose of inspection or other processing, rather than for the purpose of forming an image, or a material that is transported solely for the purpose of transportation itself.

[0107] According to the configuration of this embodiment, the attachment link 72A meshes with the sprocket 37 from the time the recording medium P begins to enter between the claw 26 and the claw base 27 in the separated state until the recording medium P is sandwiched between the claw 26 and the claw base 27 (see FIG. 11 ), but this is not limited to this. For example, the attachment link 72A may be configured to mesh with the sprocket 37 only from the time the recording medium P begins to enter between the claw 26 and the claw base 27 in the separated state until the claw 26 and the claw base 27 begin to transition from the separated state to the close state, and it is sufficient that the attachment link 72A meshes with the sprocket 37 at least when the recording medium P begins to enter between the claw 26 and the claw base 27 in the separated state.

[0108] Furthermore, according to the configuration of this embodiment, the attachment link 72A begins to mesh with the sprocket 37 before the claw 26 and the claw base 27 have completely transitioned from the close state to the separated state (the state shown in FIG. 8) (see FIG. 7), but this is not limited to this. For example, the attachment link 72A may be configured to mesh with the sprocket 37 only when the recording medium P begins to enter between the claw 26 and the claw base 27 in the separated state, and it is sufficient that the attachment link 72A mesh with the sprocket 37 at least when the recording medium P begins to enter between the claw 26 and the claw base 27 in the separated state.

[0109] According to the configuration of the present embodiment, the gripper guide unit 80 restricts the movement of the gripper 24, including the claws 26 and the claw base 27, from deviating from the predetermined circular path (see arrow X) from the time when the recording medium P starts to enter between the claws 26 and the claw base 27 (see FIG. 9) until the claws 26 and the claw base 27 pinch the recording medium P (see FIG. 11). However, this is not limited to this. For example, the gripper guide unit 80 may be configured to restrict the movement of the gripper 24, including the claws 26 and the claw base 27, from deviating from the predetermined circular path (see arrow X) from the time when the recording medium P starts to enter between the claws 26 and the claw base 27 (see FIG. 9) until the claws 26 and the claw base 27 start to transition from the separated state to the close state (see FIG. 10). Alternatively, the gripper guide unit 80 may not be provided.

[0110] 9 and 10, in the configuration of this embodiment, the medium guide unit 90 is arranged at a position overlapping the claws 26 and claw base 27 in the separated state when viewed from the rear, but this is not limited to this. For example, the medium guide unit 90 may be arranged at a position offset from the claws 26 and claw base 27 in the separated state when viewed from the rear (for example, at a position distant to the left of the claws 26 and claw base 27 in the separated state).

[0111] Furthermore, according to the configuration of the present embodiment, both the first guide member 91 and the second guide member 92 are disposed at positions overlapping the pawls 26 and the pawl base 27 in the separated state in a rear view, but this is not limited thereto. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which only one of the first guide member 91 and the second guide member 92 is disposed at a position overlapping the pawls 26 and the pawl base 27 in the separated state in a rear view.

[0112] Furthermore, according to the configuration of the present embodiment, the medium guide unit 90 and the claws 26 and claw bases 27 in the separated state are alternately arranged in multiple locations along the front-rear direction, but this is not limited to this. For example, the medium guide unit 90 may be arranged on only one side in the front-rear direction of the claws 26 and claw bases 27 in the separated state.

[0113] In addition, according to the configuration of this embodiment, both of the protrusions 91B, 92B and the claws 26 and claw bases 27 in the separated state are alternately arranged in multiple numbers along the front-rear direction, but this is not limited to this. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which only one of the protrusions 91B, 92B and the claws 26 and claw bases 27 in the separated state are alternately arranged in multiple numbers along the front-rear direction.

[0114] Furthermore, according to the configuration of this embodiment, the medium guide unit 90 is disposed at a position overlapping the pair of sprockets 37 in a rear view as shown in Figures 6 to 12, but this is not limiting. For example, the medium guide unit 90 may be disposed at a position offset from the pair of sprockets 37 in a rear view.

[0115] 7 to 12, the gripper 24 is disposed in the transfer area such that the claws 26 and the claw base 27 overlap the pair of sprockets 37 in a rear view. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the gripper 24 may be disposed in a position offset from the pair of sprockets 37 in a rear view.

[0116] Second Embodiment (Image forming apparatus 200) In the first embodiment, the image forming apparatus 10 is an inkjet type image forming apparatus that forms an image on a recording medium P using ink, but the image forming apparatus is not limited to this. An example of an image forming apparatus may be, for example, an electrophotographic type image forming apparatus, and any apparatus that forms an image will do. In the second embodiment, an electrophotographic type image forming apparatus 200 will be described. FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the image forming apparatus 200 according to this embodiment. Note that parts having the same functions as those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0117] (Image forming unit 214) Image forming apparatus 200 has an image forming unit 214 instead of image forming unit 14. Image forming unit 214 has a function of forming a toner image (an example of an image) on recording medium P by electrophotography. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 13 , image forming unit 214 has a toner image forming unit 222 that forms a toner image, and a transfer device 217 that transfers the toner image formed in toner image forming unit 222 onto recording medium P.

[0118] (Toner image forming unit 222) A plurality of toner image forming units 222 shown in Fig. 13 are provided so as to form toner images for each color. In this embodiment, toner image forming units 222 for a total of four colors, yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K), are provided. (Y), (M), (C), and (K) shown in Fig. 13 indicate components corresponding to the above colors.

[0119] Since the toner image forming units 222 for each color are configured in the same manner except for the toner used, in Figure 13, the various parts of the toner image forming unit 222(K) are denoted by reference numerals to represent the toner image forming units 222 for each color.

[0120] Specifically, each of the toner image forming units 222 for each color has a photoconductor 224 that rotates in one direction (for example, counterclockwise in FIG. 13). Each of the toner image forming units 222 for each color also has a charger 223, an exposure device 240, and a developing device 238.

[0121] In the toner image forming unit 222 for each color, a charger 223 charges a photoconductor 224. Furthermore, an exposure device 240 exposes the photoconductor 224 charged by the charger 223 to light, thereby forming an electrostatic latent image on the photoconductor 224. Furthermore, a development device 238 develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the photoconductor 224 by the exposure device 240, thereby forming a toner image.

[0122] (Transfer device 217) 13 is a device that transfers the toner image formed in the toner image forming unit 222 onto a recording medium P. Specifically, the transfer device 217 primarily transfers the toner images of the photoconductors 224 of each color onto a transfer belt 213 serving as an intermediate transfer body, superimposing the toner images, and then secondarily transfers the superimposed toner images onto the recording medium P. As shown in FIG. 13, the transfer device 217 includes the transfer belt 213, a primary transfer roll 226, and a transfer body 250.

[0123] The primary transfer roll 226 is a roll that transfers the toner image of each color on the photoconductor 224 to the transfer belt 213 at a primary transfer position T1 between the photoconductor 224 and the primary transfer roll 226. In this embodiment, a primary transfer electric field is applied between the primary transfer roll 226 and the photoconductor 224, so that the toner image formed on the photoconductor 224 is transferred to the transfer belt 213 at the primary transfer position T1.

[0124] Toner images are transferred from the photoconductors 224 of each color onto the outer peripheral surface of the transfer belt 213. As shown in Fig. 13, the transfer belt 213 is endless and is wound around a plurality of rolls 232 and an opposing roll 234 so as to assume an inverted triangular shape when viewed from the front (viewed from the depth direction of the device). The transfer belt 213 rotates in the direction of arrow A when at least one of the plurality of rolls 232 is driven to rotate.

[0125] The transfer body 250 is a roll that transfers the toner image transferred to the transfer belt 213 to the recording medium P at a secondary transfer position T2 between the opposing roll 234 and the transfer body 250. In this embodiment, a secondary transfer electric field is applied between the opposing roll 234 and the transfer body 250, so that the toner image transferred to the transfer belt 213 is transferred to the recording medium P at the secondary transfer position T2. ​​The transfer body 250 is configured similarly to the rotating body 50 in the first embodiment, and is an example of a rotating body.

[0126] (fixing device 280) In this embodiment, the fixing device 280 functions as a device that fixes the toner image transferred to the recording medium P by the transfer body 250 to the recording medium P. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 13 , the fixing device 280 has a pressure roll 281 and a heating roll 282.

[0127] The pair of sprockets 45 in the first embodiment are provided on both axial ends of the pressure roll 281. The pair of sprockets 45 are arranged coaxially with the pressure roll 281 and are configured to rotate integrally with the pressure roll 281. In addition, a recess 284 is formed on the outer periphery of the pressure roll 281 to accommodate the gripper 24 and the mounting member 23.

[0128] In the fixing device 280, a heating roll 282 is disposed above the pressure roll 281. The heating roll 282 has a heat source 282A such as a halogen lamp inside the roll.

[0129] Furthermore, in the fixing device 280, for example, one of the pressure roll 281 and the heating roll 282 is rotationally driven, and the other of the pressure roll 281 and the heating roll 282 is rotated accordingly. Note that a configuration in which both the pressure roll 281 and the heating roll 282 are rotationally driven may also be used.

[0130] Then, in the fixing device 280, the recording medium P is conveyed while being sandwiched between the heating roll 282 and the pressure roll 281, and the toner image transferred onto the recording medium P is fixed onto the recording medium P by heating and pressurizing the recording medium P.

[0131] In the image forming apparatus 200, the conveying device 12 rotates the chain 22 in the rotation direction C with the gripper 24 holding the leading edge of the recording medium P, thereby passing the recording medium P through the secondary transfer position T2 and the fixing position NP between the pressure roll 281 and the heating roll 282. Then, the toner images of each color that have been primarily transferred onto the transfer belt 213 in a superimposed state at the primary transfer position T1 are secondarily transferred onto the recording medium P at the secondary transfer position T2. ​​The toner images secondarily transferred onto the recording medium P are fixed onto the recording medium P at the fixing position NP.

[0132] The transport device 12 in this embodiment is configured similarly to the transport device 12 in the first embodiment, and this embodiment provides the same functions as the first embodiment.

[0133] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications, changes, and improvements are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, the above-described modified examples may be appropriately combined to form a configuration. [Explanation of symbols]

[0134] 10, 200 Image forming device 12 Conveyor equipment 14, 214 Image forming unit 22 Chain (an example of a rotating component) 26 Claw (an example of a pair of clamping members) 27 Claw base (an example of a pair of clamping members) 37 Sprocket (an example of a rotating part) 72A Mounting link (example of mounting location) 80 Gripper guide portion (an example of a limiting portion) 90 Media guide unit (example of guide unit) 91 First guide member 92 Second guide member P Recording medium (an example of a material to be transported)

Claims

1. A rotating member that rotates; a circumferential member formed in an annular shape, wound around the rotary member, and circumferentially rotating in accordance with the rotation of the rotary member; a pair of clamping members that are attached to an attachment portion of the rotating member, rotate together with the rotating member, transition from a spaced state in which they are spaced apart to a close state, and clamp a transported material that has entered between them in the spaced state; a limiting portion having a guide groove formed in a side wall disposed on the side of the pair of clamping members, the limiting portion guiding a guided portion provided coaxially at an axial end of a shaft to which one of the pair of clamping members is attached, via the guide groove; Equipped with the attachment portion of the circulating member is in contact with the rotating member when the conveyed material starts to enter between the pair of clamping members in the separated state, The limiting unit limits movement of the pair of clamping members away from a predetermined circular path from the time when the material to be conveyed starts to enter between the pair of clamping members in the separated state until the pair of clamping members starts to transition from the separated state to the close state. Conveying device.

2. The attachment portion of the circulating member is in contact with the rotating member from the time when the conveyed material starts to enter between the pair of clamping members in the separated state until the pair of clamping members start to transition from the separated state to the close state. The conveying device according to claim 1 .

3. The attachment portion of the circulating member is in contact with the rotating member from the time when the material to be conveyed starts to enter between the pair of clamping members in the separated state until the pair of clamping members clamp the material to be conveyed. The conveying device according to claim 2 .

4. the pair of clamping members transition from the close state to the separated state, and then transition back to the close state to clamp a transported material that has entered between them in the separated state; The attachment portion of the circumferential member starts to contact the rotating member before the pair of clamping members completes the transition from the close state to the separated state. The conveying device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The limiting section limits the movement of the transported material from when the transported material starts to enter between the pair of clamping members in the separated state until the pair of clamping members clamps the transported material. The conveying device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. a guide portion that is arranged at a position that overlaps the pair of clamping members in the spaced-apart state when viewed in one direction along the rotation axis direction of the rotating member, and that guides the transported material into a gap between the pair of clamping members in the spaced-apart state; Equipped with The guide unit is a first guide member that guides one surface of the material to be conveyed in the conveying direction by the conveying section, and a second guide member that guides the other surface of the material to be conveyed, The material to be conveyed, which has entered between the first guide member and the second guide member from the upstream side in the conveying direction, is passed to the downstream side in the conveying direction, and is discharged from between the first guide member and the second guide member toward the downstream side in the conveying direction between the pair of clamping members in the separated state. The conveying device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The guide portion is disposed at a position where the first guide member and the second guide member overlap with the pair of clamping members in the separated state when viewed in the one direction. The conveying device according to claim 6.

8. The guide portions and the portions of the pair of sandwiching members in the separated state that sandwich the material to be conveyed are alternately arranged in a plurality of positions along the one direction.

8. The conveying device according to claim 6 or 7.

9. The guide unit is The first guide member, the second guide member, and the portion of the pair of sandwiching members in the separated state that sandwiches the material to be conveyed are alternately arranged in plural along the one direction.

9. The conveying device according to claim 8.

10. The guide portion always maintains a state of being arranged at a position overlapping the rotating member when viewed in the one direction. The conveying device according to any one of claims 6 to 9.

11. The pair of clamping members are disposed at positions overlapping the rotating member when viewed in the one direction. The conveying device according to claim 10.

12. A rotating sprocket; a chain formed in an annular shape, wound around the sprocket, and rotating as the sprocket rotates; a pair of clamping members attached to links constituting the chain, rotating together with the chain, transitioning from a spaced state in which they are spaced apart to a close state, and clamping a transported material that has entered between them in the spaced state; a limiting portion having a guide groove formed in a side wall disposed on the side of the pair of clamping members, the limiting portion guiding a guided portion provided coaxially at an axial end of a shaft to which one of the pair of clamping members is attached, in the guide groove; Equipped with the link is engaged with the sprocket when the material to be conveyed starts to enter between the pair of clamping members in the separated state, The limiting unit limits movement of the pair of clamping members away from a predetermined circular path from the time when the material to be conveyed starts to enter between the pair of clamping members in the separated state until the pair of clamping members starts to transition from the separated state to the close state. Conveying device.

13. A conveying device according to any one of claims 1 to 12; an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium as the material to be conveyed by the conveying device; An image forming apparatus comprising:

Images