Recording device

Abstract

To provide a recording device that can stably hold a connection / disconnection state between a driving transmission mechanism and a driving transmission destination whose connection states can be switched.SOLUTION: The recording device is provided with: a driving source; a part to be driven having a gear 13 to be driven; a driving transmission mechanism 70 having a driven gear 73 that is driven by the driving source, which can oscillate between a first position at which the driving gear 73 engages with the gear 13 to be driven and a second position at which the driving gear 73 does not engage with the gear 13 to be driven; and a regulation mechanism 90 that can oscillate between a regulation position at which the mechanism regulates the driving transmission mechanism 70 from oscillating and a non-regulation position at which the mechanism does not regulate the driving transmission mechanism 70 from oscillating, where the regulation mechanism 90 can oscillate with a rotating shaft of the gear 13 to be driven as a center.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a recording apparatus having a drive switching unit using a pendulum mechanism.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as a recording apparatus such as an inkjet printer, there has been known a configuration in which a drive connection state or a drive connection destination can be switched by a drive switching unit configured by a pendulum mechanism having a sun gear and a planetary gear. Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration in which drive to a plurality of drive transmission destinations can be switched by swinging of a pendulum mechanism, and the position of the pendulum mechanism is regulated by a swingable lever. In such a configuration, when a drive gear such as a planetary gear and a driven gear as a drive transmission destination are meshed with each other, even if the planetary gear receives a force in a direction away from the driven gear due to swinging of the pendulum mechanism, or the drive gear receives a reaction force in a direction away from the driven gear, the position of the drive gear is regulated by the lever, and the center distance between the planetary gear and the driven gear is guaranteed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the above-described configuration, the guarantee accuracy of the center distance between the planetary gear and the driven gear is affected by the positional accuracy of the planetary gear and the driven gear, as well as the dimensional accuracy and positional accuracy of each member constituting the lever and the pendulum mechanism. Therefore, it is necessary to highly accurately guarantee the center distance between the planetary gear and the driven gear, and stably maintain the drive connection state.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and aims to provide a drive transmission mechanism that can switch connection states and a recording device that can stably maintain the connection / disconnection state of the drive transmission destination. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] To achieve the above objective, the recording device according to the present invention is Power source and A driven unit having a driven gear, A drive transmission mechanism having a drive gear driven by the aforementioned drive source, the drive gear being able to swing between a first position in which it meshes with the driven gear and a second position in which it does not mesh with the driven gear, A restricting mechanism that can swing between a restricting position that restricts the swinging of the drive transmission mechanism and an unrestricted position that does not restrict the swinging of the drive transmission mechanism, A recording device comprising, The regulating mechanism is pivotable around the rotation axis of the driven gear. Furthermore, the drive transmission mechanism in the first position is restricted from swinging toward the second position. It is characterized by the following: [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a drive transmission mechanism capable of switching connection states and a recording device capable of stably maintaining the connection / disconnection state of the drive transmission destination. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing the internal configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram of an image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view of the drive switching unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a cross-sectional view of the planetary gear shaft support portion of the planetary arm according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows the positional relationship between the carriage and the locking mechanism according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6]This is a side view showing the operation of the locking mechanism according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the ink suction mechanism according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] This is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the drive train according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the drive train according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a diagram showing the configuration of the regulatory mechanism according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] This is a side view showing the operation of the pendulum mechanism and regulating mechanism according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] This figure shows how the pressing means according to the first embodiment presses against the pendulum mechanism. [Figure 13] This is a side view showing the pendulum mechanism and driven unit according to the second embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The embodiments for carrying out this invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings, based on examples. Note that the dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative arrangements of the components described in these embodiments should be appropriately modified depending on the configuration and various conditions of the device to which the invention is applied. In other words, the scope of this invention is not intended to be limited to the following embodiments.

[0010] <First Example> (Image forming apparatus) Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the internal configuration of an image forming apparatus M, which is a recording device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In the following description, as shown in Figure 1, the direction from the left side to the right side of the image forming apparatus M will be referred to as the x-direction, the direction from the back to the front of the image forming apparatus M will be referred to as the y-direction, and the vertically upward direction will be referred to as the z-direction. In this embodiment, the width direction of the recording medium transported inside the image forming apparatus M is substantially parallel to the x-direction, and the transport direction of the recording medium is substantially parallel to the y-direction.

[0011] The image forming apparatus M is a multifunction peripheral including a printing unit and a scanner unit (not shown) disposed above the printing unit, and can execute various processes related to image recording operations and reading operations individually or in conjunction with each other by the printing unit and the scanner unit. The scanner unit includes an ADF (Auto Document Feeder) and an FBS (Flatbed Scanner), and can read documents automatically fed by the ADF and read (scan) documents placed on the document table of the FBS by a user. Note that although the present embodiment is a multifunction peripheral having both a printing unit and a scanner unit, the present invention is applicable to other image forming apparatuses such as printers that do not include a scanner unit.

[0012] The printing unit of the image forming apparatus M includes a paper feeding unit 1 on which recording media are stacked, a conveying unit 3 that conveys the recording media fed from the paper feeding unit 1, and a recording unit 4 as a recording unit that records images on the recording media conveyed from the conveying unit 3. Further, the printing unit includes a paper discharge unit 8 to which recording media with images recorded thereon are discharged and stacked, a maintenance unit 5 that performs maintenance on the recording head 42 of the recording unit 4, and a drive unit 6 that transmits the drive of the conveyance motor 31 of the conveyance unit 3 to the paper feed unit 1 and the maintenance unit 5.

[0013] The paper feeding unit 1 includes a paper feeding roller 11, and conveys the stacked recording media to the conveying unit 3 by the paper feeding roller 11. The conveying unit 3 includes a forward / reverse rotatable conveyance motor 31 that is a drive source, and a conveyance roller 32 driven by the conveyance motor 31, and the conveyance roller 32 conveys the recording medium to an area where recording is performed by the recording unit 4.

[0014] The recording unit 4 includes a carriage 41, a recording head 42 held by the carriage 41, a carriage motor 43 that drives the carriage 41, and a chassis 44 that extends from one end to the other end in the x direction within the image forming apparatus M and holds the carriage 41. The carriage 41 is capable of reciprocating scanning in the x direction along the chassis 44, and performs a recording operation on a recording medium while moving in the x direction.

[0015] The paper output section 8 includes a stacking section 8a for stacking recording media and an extension tray 8b that can be pulled out relative to the image forming apparatus M to support recording media when the size of the recording media is large in the y direction.

[0016] The maintenance unit 5 includes a mechanism for bringing a suction cap into contact with the recording head 42, and a suction mechanism for drawing ink from the ink outlet of the recording head 42 using a tube pump. The image forming apparatus M is also provided with a locking mechanism for locking the carriage 41 in the position where the suction cap is in contact with the recording head 42. The locking mechanism stably maintains the capped state of the recording head 42 and restricts the movement of the carriage 41 during logistics and transport. Details of the configuration for holding the position of the carriage 41 with the locking mechanism will be described later.

[0017] All of the aforementioned units that constitute the printed circuit board are fastened to the main body base 7. Furthermore, the circuit board (not shown) that controls the operation of these units is positioned and held by the main body base 7 and the chassis 44.

[0018] (Printing operation) Figure 2 is a block diagram of the image forming apparatus M of this embodiment. The image forming apparatus M comprises an MPU 901, a ROM 902, and a RAM 903. The MPU 901 is an MPU that controls the operation of each part and the processing of data. The ROM 902 is a ROM that stores programs and data executed by the MPU 901 and includes an image processing unit 9021. The RAM 903 is a RAM that temporarily stores processing data executed by the MPU 901 and data received from the host computer 906.

[0019] The image forming apparatus M further includes a recording head driver 942 that controls the recording head 42, a carriage motor driver 943 that controls the carriage motor 43, and a transport motor driver 931 that controls the transport motor 31. The MPU 901 controls the recording head driver 942, the carriage motor driver 943, the transport motor driver 931, and the operation display unit 904. The carriage 41 is driven by the carriage motor 43, and the paper feed roller 11, transport roller 32, and discharge roller are driven by the transport motor 31.

[0020] The host computer 906 has a printer driver 9061 for processing recording information such as the recorded image and image quality, and for communicating with the image forming apparatus, when the user commands the execution of a recording operation. The MPU 901 exchanges recorded images and other information with the host computer 906 via the I / F unit 905.

[0021] (Drive unit) Next, the configuration of the drive unit 6 of the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the drive switching unit disposed within the drive unit 6.

[0022] The input gear 61 is connected to the transport motor 31, which is the drive source, via a drive train (not shown), a transport roller 32, and an idler gear 69, and rotates in conjunction with the drive of the transport motor 31. The drive switching unit also has a pendulum mechanism 70 composed of a planetary arm 71, a sun gear 72, and a planetary gear 73 as a drive transmission mechanism that transmits the driving force of the transport motor 31.

[0023] The planetary arm 71 has the shaft portion of the input gear 61 inserted through it and is pressed against the shaft portion of the input gear 61 by a friction spring (not shown). Therefore, when the input gear 61 rotates, the planetary arm 71 oscillates coaxially with the rotation axis 61c of the input gear 61 due to frictional drive. The planetary arm 71 also has a cylindrical shaft support portion 71a extending parallel to the rotation axis 61c and a first restricting portion 71b for restricting the oscillation of the planetary arm 71.

[0024] The sun gear 72 engages with the engagement portion of the input gear 61 after the shaft portion of the input gear 61 is inserted through it. Therefore, when the input gear 61 rotates, the sun gear 72 is driven to rotate coaxially with the rotation axis 61c of the input gear 61. In other words, the sun gear 72 is always driven and connected to the input gear 61.

[0025] The planetary gear 73 is pivotally supported on the planetary arm 71 so as to be rotatable on a rotation axis 73a parallel to the rotation axis 61c of the input gear 61. Furthermore, the planetary gear 73 is always meshed with the sun gear 72, and the driving force is transmitted from the sun gear 72.

[0026] Referring to Figure 4, the pivot point of the planetary gear 73 on the planetary arm 71 will be described in more detail. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the pendulum mechanism 70 as seen from a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis 73a, showing how the planetary arm 71 pivotally supports the planetary gear 73. The planetary arm 71 is provided so as to sandwich the planetary gear 73 in the axial direction of the planetary gear 73, and the shaft portion 73b of the planetary gear 73 is inserted through the inner diameter of the pivot point 71a of the planetary arm 71. The inner and outer diameters of the pivot point 71a are concentric, and since the shaft portion of the planetary gear 73 is pivotally supported on the inner diameter side, the centers of the outer diameter and inner diameter of the pivot point 71a are configured to be located on the rotation axis 73a of the planetary gear 73.

[0027] In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus M can switch between a state in which the planetary gear 73 is connected to the next gear (driven gear) and a state in which the planetary gear 73 is separated from the next gear and disconnected by the pendulum mechanism 70 configured as described above, thereby swinging the planetary arm 71.

[0028] (Locking mechanism) Next, the locking mechanism 80 that locks the carriage 41, on which the recording head 42 is mounted, into the capping position will be described with reference to Figures 5(a), (b) and 6(a), (b). Figure 5(a) is a perspective view showing the positional relationship between the carriage 41 and the locking mechanism 80, and Figure 5(b) is a top view thereof. Figure 6(a) is a side view showing the carriage 41 and the locking mechanism 80 when the locking mechanism 80 is in a non-operating position that does not lock the carriage 41. Figure 6(b) is a side view showing the carriage 41 and the locking mechanism 80 when the locking mechanism 80 is in an operating position that locks the carriage 41.

[0029] The carriage 41 has a pressing portion 41a for restricting the swing of the planetary arm 71, a contact portion 41b that contacts the locking mechanism 80 when the locking mechanism 80 is in the operating position, and a contact portion 41c that contacts the chassis end portion 44a. When recording is performed on the recording medium, the carriage 41 moves in the direction of the arrow 411 shown in Figures 5(a) and (b). On the other hand, to prevent the carriage 41 from moving unintentionally, such as during logistics, the carriage 41 is locked by the locking mechanism 80 to restrict its movement.

[0030] The locking mechanism 80 comprises a drive member 82 and a lever member 83. The drive member 82 is engaged with the input gear 61 and is a rotating member that can rotate coaxially with the rotation axis 61c of the input gear 61 and in the same direction as the input gear 61 when the input gear 61 rotates due to the frictional force acting between it and the input gear 61. The drive member 82 has a cylindrical link portion 82a that protrudes in the direction of the rotation axis at a position different from its rotation axis, and when the drive member 82 rotates, the link portion 82a moves in a circular motion around the rotation axis 61c.

[0031] The lever member 83 has a cam portion 83a that engages with the link portion 82a and an engaging portion 83b that abuts against the carriage 41 and restricts the scanning of the carriage 41, and is configured to swing on a different pivot axis 83c from the drive member 82. When the drive member 82 rotates, the link portion 82a moves in a circular motion, and as the link portion 82a slides against the cam portion 83a, a driving force is transmitted to the lever member 83, and the lever member 83 swings around the pivot axis 83c while being restricted by the cam portion 83a.

[0032] The drive member 82 is connected to the transport roller 32 via an input gear 61 and other components. When the transport roller 32 is driven in the forward direction (the direction in which the recording medium is transported toward the discharge roller), as shown in Figure 6(a), the drive member 82 swings in the direction of arrow 822, causing the link portion 82a to move. As a result, the lever member 83 swings around the pivot axis 83c in the direction of arrow 832, and the engaging portion 83b of the lever member 83 moves to a position where it does not restrict the movement of the carriage 41 in the scanning direction (direction of arrow 411), and the lever member 83 moves to a non-operating position (retracted side). That is, when the lever member 83 is retracted from the scanning path of the carriage 41 and in the non-operating position, the engagement between the locking mechanism 80 and the carriage 41 is released, the locking mechanism 80 becomes non-operating, and the carriage 41 can reciprocate in the scanning direction.

[0033] When the transport roller 32 is driven in the reverse direction (opposite to the forward direction), as shown in Figure 6(b), the drive member 82 swings in the direction of arrow 821, causing the link portion 82a to move. Then, the lever member 83 swings around the pivot axis 83c in the direction of arrow 831, and the engaging portion 83b enters a position on the scanning path of the carriage 41 that blocks scanning movement. When the lever member 83 is in the operating position that restricts the movement of the carriage 41, the chassis end portion 44a is located on one side of the scanning direction of the carriage 41, and the engaging portion 83b is located on the other side, restricting the movement of the carriage 41 in the scanning direction. At this time, even if a force is applied to the carriage 41, one side of the carriage 41's contact portion 41c contacts the chassis end portion 44a, and the other side of the carriage 41's contact portion 41b contacts the engaging portion 83b, thereby restricting movement from that position. In this way, by holding the carriage 41 in a predetermined position with the locking mechanism 80, damage to the carriage 41 during logistics and the suction cap coming off the recording head 42 can be prevented.

[0034] (Ink suction mechanism) Next, the ink suction mechanism 50, which sucks liquid from the ink ejection port of the recording head 42, will be described with reference to Figure 7. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the ink suction mechanism 50.

[0035] The ink suction mechanism 50 is a suction mechanism comprising a roller holder 51, a pump roller 52, a pump base 53, and a pump tube 54. The pump base 53 has an arc-shaped wall surface, and two pump tubes 54 are arranged along this wall surface. Each pump tube 54 is connected to a storage means and a recording head 42 via a suction cap, and the suctioned liquid passes through the inside. The roller holder 51 is a rotating member located inside the arc-shaped wall surface of the pump base 53 and rotatably supported on the pump base 53. The roller holder 51 has a guide shape 51b that holds the three pump rollers 52 in a movable and rotatable manner. In this embodiment, the recording head 42 is capable of ejecting four colors of ink: black, cyan, magenta, and yellow. One of the pump tubes 54 of the ink suction mechanism 50 is a transport path for black ink, and the other is a transport path for the remaining color inks.

[0036] In Figure 7, as the roller holder 51 rotates counterclockwise, each pump roller 52 moves radially outward along the guide shape 51b provided on the roller holder 51, compressing the pump tube 54 and entering a charged state, making it possible to draw in liquid. As the rotation of the roller holder 51 continues, the pump rollers 52 move in the direction of rotation of the roller holder 51 while compressing the pump tube 54. Therefore, the ink suction mechanism 50 is a pump The gas and liquid inside the tube 54 can be sent in the rotational direction of the roller holder 51, allowing the aspirated liquid to be transported to the storage means.

[0037] As the roller holder 51 rotates clockwise, each pump roller 52 moves radially inward along the guide shape 51b provided on the roller holder 51, separating from the pump tube 54 and releasing the charge to the pump tube 54. If the rotation of the roller holder 51 continues, the pump rollers 52 move in the direction of rotation of the roller holder 51 while separated from the pump tube 54. Therefore, the gas and liquid inside the pump tube 54 are not transported to the recording head 42. With this configuration, the ink suction mechanism 50 of this embodiment can switch between suction and non-suction depending on the rotation direction of the roller holder 51.

[0038] (Drive train) Next, the details of the configuration of the drive train connected to the input gear 61 will be described with reference to Figures 8, 9(a), and 9(b). Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view showing the arrangement of the components constituting the drive train. Figures 9(a) and 9(b) are cross-sectional views of the components shown in Figure 8 in a plane including the rotation axis of the input gear 61. Figure 9(a) is a cross-sectional view of the input gear 61 including the rotation axis 61c, showing how the components constituting the drive train are engaged with each other. Figure 9(b) is an exploded view of Figure 9(a).

[0039] The input gear 61 has a cylindrical shaft portion that protrudes from both sides in the direction of rotation, and has a shaft portion that functions as an input shaft for driving other members by the driving force of the transport motor 31, which is the drive source. The outer and inner surfaces of the shaft portion are provided with fitting shafts 61d, 61e, 61f, 61g and fitting holes 61h for fitting with each component of the drive unit. The fitting shaft 61d and fitting holes 61h are located at the end of the input gear 61 in the direction of rotation, and a cylindrical portion with the fitting shaft 61d and fitting holes 61h formed thereon is provided at the end of the shaft portion. The cross-sectional shape of each fitting portion of the input gear 61 is substantially circular with respect to the rotation axis 61c of the input gear 61. On one end of the input gear 61 in the axial direction, a cover member 68, a roller holder 51, and a pump base 53 are attached in order from the side closest to the input gear 61. Furthermore, the planetary arm 71, base member 67, drive member 82, and lever member 83 are attached to the other axial end of the input gear 61, in order from the side closest to the input gear 61.

[0040] The base member 67 is a support member that supports the other members constituting the drive train and serves as the base for the drive train, and is connected to the main body base 7. The base member 67 has a fitting hole 67d through which the fitting shaft 61d of the input gear 61 is inserted.

[0041] The cover member 68 is a support member that supports other members constituting the drive train, similar to the base member 67, and is attached to the base member 67. The cover member 68 also has a fitting hole 68e through which the fitting shaft 61e of the input gear 61 is inserted.

[0042] The input gear 61 has a fitting shaft 61d that protrudes in one axial direction and is inserted into a fitting hole 67d, and a fitting shaft 61e that protrudes in the other axial direction and is inserted into a fitting hole 68e. In other words, the input gear 61 is pivotally supported by a base member 67 and a cover member 68, which are pivot support members, so as to be rotatable around the rotation axis 61c of the input gear 61 from both ends in the axial direction.

[0043] The planetary arm 71 has a fitting hole 71f through which the fitting shaft 61f of the input gear 61 is inserted, and a fitting hole 71g through which the fitting shaft 61g is inserted. The planetary arm 71 is held on the input gear 61 so as to be able to swing around the rotation axis 61c of the input gear 61.

[0044] The sun gear 72 has a fitting hole 72f through which the fitting shaft 61f of the input gear 61 is inserted, and is held on the input gear 61 so as to be rotatable about the rotation axis 61c of the input gear 61.

[0045] The planetary arm 71, the sun gear 72, and the planetary gear 73 supported by the planetary arm 71 are arranged between the base member 67 and the cover member 68 that pivotally support the input gear 61.

[0046] The drive member 82 has a link portion 82a, a link forming portion 82b, and a substantially cylindrical shaft portion 82c which is the rotational shaft portion of the drive member 82. A fitting shaft 82h is formed on the shaft portion 82c of the drive member 82, and the fitting shaft 82h is inserted through the fitting hole 61h of the input gear 61. That is, the drive member 82 is pivotally supported on the cylindrical portion of the input gear 61, which has a fitting shaft 61d on its outer diameter and a fitting hole 61h on its inner diameter. When the drive member 82 and the input gear 61 are fitted together, the base member 67 is positioned between the drive member 82 and the input gear 61. At this time, the link forming portion 82b is located on the opposite side of the input gear 61 from the base member 67. The shaft portion 82c of the drive member 82 is pressed against the input gear 61 by a friction spring (not shown), and when the input gear 61 rotates, it rotates coaxially with the rotational shaft 61c of the input gear 61 due to frictional force. When the drive member 82 rotates, the link portion 82a on the link forming portion 82b comes into contact with and slides against the cam portion 83a provided on the lever member 83, thereby driving the lever member 83.

[0047] The shaft portion of the input gear 61 on the cover member 68 side is provided with an engaging portion 61a that engages with the engaged portion 51a of the roller holder 51. The roller holder 51 is positioned such that its rotation center is located on the rotation axis 61c of the input gear 61. When the input gear 61 rotates, the engaging portion 61a engages with the engaged portion 51a, and drive is transmitted from the input gear 61 to the roller holder 51. The pump base 53 pivotally supports the rotation axis of the roller holder 51 and is attached to the cover member 68.

[0048] As described above, in this embodiment, the rotation centers of the pendulum mechanism that performs drive switching, the drive unit of the locking mechanism that restricts the position of the carriage, and the roller holder, which is the drive unit of the ink suction mechanism, are all located on the rotation axis 61c of the input gear 61. This eliminates the need to provide separate input gears for each drive input unit, and allows the use of a common input gear, thereby reducing the number of parts, saving space, and making the image forming apparatus M more compact.

[0049] (Regulatory body) Next, the configuration of the drive switching unit and the holding means for maintaining the drive connection / disconnection state of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 10(a) to (c). The holding means of this embodiment consists of a regulating mechanism 90 that restricts the swinging of the pendulum mechanism 70. Figure 10(a) is a perspective view showing the configuration of the regulating mechanism 90 and surrounding members. Figure 10(b) is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the regulating mechanism 90 and surrounding members. Figure 10(c) is a side view showing the regulating mechanism 90 restricting the swinging of the pendulum mechanism 70 and the holding means maintaining the drive connection state.

[0050] The regulating mechanism 90 includes a planetary arm lock 91, which is a regulating member capable of restricting the swing of the pendulum mechanism 70, and a paper feed gear base 95 that supports the planetary arm lock 91. In this embodiment, the paper feed gear base 95 further supports the drive train of the paper feed unit 1, which includes a paper feed input gear 13. The paper feed input gear 13 is positioned to mesh with the planetary gear 73, and the driving force of the input gear 61 is transmitted via the planetary gear 73 and the sun gear 72.

[0051] The paper feed gear base 95 has cylindrical fitting shafts 95c, 95d, and 95e, and each fitting part is concentric. The paper feed input gear 13 is the end gear of the drive train that transmits drive to the paper feed unit 1, and has a fitting hole 13d. The paper feed input gear 13 is rotatably supported on the paper feed gear base 95 by inserting the fitting shaft 95d through the fitting hole 13d. The paper feed input gear 13 is located on the oscillation trajectory of the planetary gear 73 of the pendulum mechanism 70 of the drive switching unit, and the driving force transmitted from the planetary gear 73 is transmitted to the paper feed unit 1, which is the driven unit, via the paper feed input gear 13. ru.

[0052] The planetary arm lock 91 has a fitting hole 91c through which a fitting shaft 95c is inserted, and a fitting hole 91e through which a fitting shaft 95e is inserted, and is pivotably supported on the paper feed gear base 95. That is, the rotation axis of the paper feed input gear 13 and the pivot axis of the planetary arm lock 91 are on the same axis. The planetary arm lock 91 also engages with the paper feed gear base 95 so as to sandwich the paper feed input gear 13 and the paper feed gear base 95. The planetary arm lock 91 in this embodiment is made of a resin material and can engage with the paper feed gear base 95 by bending.

[0053] The planetary arm lock 91 further includes two arm portions 91f extending perpendicular to the rotation axis on both sides of the paper feed gear base 95 in the direction of rotation axis of the planetary arm lock 91, and projections 91g projecting perpendicular to the rotation axis at the tip of each arm portion 91f. A first holding portion 91a, which is a first surface for restricting the swing of the pendulum mechanism 70, and a second holding portion 91b, which is a second surface, are formed on the projections. In this embodiment, the first holding portion 91a and the second holding portion 91b are planes facing in opposite directions.

[0054] The planetary arm lock 91 is capable of swinging between a position where the projection 91g is located on the swing trajectory of the planetary arm 71 and restricts the swing of the planetary arm 71, and a position where the projection 91g is retracted from the swing trajectory of the planetary arm 71 and the planetary arm 71 is capable of swinging. The end of the planetary arm lock 91 opposite to the end where the projection 91g is located is connected to the planetary arm lock lever 92. The planetary arm lock lever 92 is a component for swinging the planetary arm lock 91. Details of the swinging motion of the planetary arm lock 91 caused by the swinging of the planetary arm lock lever 92 will be described later.

[0055] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 10(c), the distance between the axes of the planetary gear 73 and the paper feed input gear 13 when the planetary gear 73 and the paper feed input gear 13 are connected is distance d. When the planetary gear 73 and the paper feed input gear 13 are connected, when viewed from the axis of rotation of the planetary arm lock 91, the straight line connecting the rotation centers of the planetary gear 73 and the paper feed input gear 13 and the straight line connecting the oscillation center of the planetary arm 71 and the rotation center of the planetary gear 73 are perpendicular to each other. By arranging the components in this way, the direction in which the straight line connecting the rotation centers of the planetary gear 73 and the paper feed input gear 13 extends coincides with the tangential direction of the oscillation trajectory when the planetary gear 73 separates from the paper feed input gear 13, thus reducing variations in the distance between axes due to dimensional accuracy of the components, etc.

[0056] (Drive switching operation) Next, the operation of the drive switching unit and the holding means for maintaining the drive connection and disconnection state in this embodiment will be explained with reference to Figures 11(a) to (d) and 12(a) and (b). Figures 11(a) to (d) are views of the pendulum mechanism 70 and the regulating mechanism 90 as seen from the direction of the pivot center of the planetary arm 71.

[0057] As described above, the pendulum mechanism 70 can switch the connection state between the planetary gear 73 and the paper feed input gear 13 (driven gear) by the swinging of the planetary arm 71. In the following description, the position of the pendulum mechanism 70 in which the planetary gear 73 is meshed with and connected to the paper feed input gear 13 will be referred to as the first position, and the position of the pendulum mechanism 70 in which the planetary gear 73 is separated from the paper feed input gear 13 and the connection is released will be referred to as the second position. In addition, the regulating mechanism 90 can be switched between a state in which the swinging of the planetary arm 71 is restricted and a state in which it is not restricted by the swinging of the planetary arm lock 91. In the following description, the position of the regulating mechanism 90 in which the planetary arm lock 91 restricts the swinging of the planetary arm 71 and maintains the position of the pendulum mechanism 70 will be referred to as the restricted position, and the position of the regulating mechanism 90 in which the planetary arm lock 91 does not restrict the swinging of the planetary arm 71 will be referred to as the unrestricted position.

[0058] Figure 11(a) shows the pendulum mechanism 70 in the second position and the regulating mechanism 90 in the regulating position. This shows the state. At this time, the planetary gear 73 is positioned away from the paper feed input gear 13, and the connection between the planetary gear 73 and the paper feed input gear 13 is disconnected. In addition, the second holding portion 91b of the planetary arm lock 91 abuts against the pivot portion 71a of the planetary arm 71, blocking the oscillation trajectory of the planetary arm 71 in the direction in which the planetary gear 73 approaches the paper feed input gear 13 (counterclockwise direction in Figure 11(a)). Furthermore, the second contact portion 67a provided on the base member 67 blocks the oscillation trajectory of the planetary arm 71 in the direction in which the planetary gear 73 moves away from the paper feed input gear 13 (clockwise direction in Figure 11(a)). In other words, the base member 67 having the second contact portion 67a also functions as a second restricting member that restricts the oscillation of the pendulum mechanism 70.

[0059] With the above configuration, when the pendulum mechanism 70 is in the second position, the second holding portion 91b of the planetary arm lock 91 and the second contact portion 67a of the base member 67 restrict the swinging of the pendulum mechanism 70, and the position of the pendulum mechanism 70 is maintained. Therefore, even if a force that causes the planetary arm 71 to swing acts as a result of the rotation of the input gear 61, the planetary gear 73 can maintain a position separated from the paper feed input gear 13. Note that when the pendulum mechanism 70 is in the second position and the restricting mechanism 90 is in the restricting position, the second holding portion 91b does not necessarily need to be in contact with the pivot portion 71a, and a gap may be provided.

[0060] Figure 11(b) shows the state where the pendulum mechanism 70 is in the first position and the regulating mechanism 90 is in the unregulated position. Next, we will explain the operation in which the regulating mechanism 90 swings from the regulated position to the unregulated position, and the pendulum mechanism 70 swings from the second position to the first position, causing the image forming apparatus M to transition from the state shown in Figure 11(a) to the state shown in Figure 11(b).

[0061] First, the operation of the regulating mechanism 90 swinging from the regulated position to the unregulated position will be explained. Figures 12(a) and (b) are cross-sectional views of the carriage 41 and the planetary arm lock lever 92 as seen from the vertical direction (z direction). Figure 12(a) shows the state in which the carriage 41 is in the unpressed position, the carriage 41 is separated from the planetary arm lock lever 92, and the regulating mechanism 90 is in the regulated position. Figure 12(b) shows the state in which the carriage 41 is in the pressed position, the carriage 41 is in contact with the planetary arm lock lever 92, and the regulating mechanism 90 is in the unregulated position. The carriage 41 has a pressing portion 41a that protrudes trapezoidally towards the planetary arm lock lever 92 when viewed from the vertical direction, and as the carriage 41 moves in the scanning direction (x direction), the planetary arm lock lever 92 comes into contact with the inclined surface of the pressing portion 41a. As the carriage 41 moves further, the planetary arm lock lever 92 swings while sliding against the pressing part 41a, and when the carriage 41 moves to a predetermined drive switching position, the planetary arm lock lever 92 is pressed against the tip surface of the pressing part 41a. When the planetary arm lock lever 92 is pressed and swings, the planetary arm lock 91 swings in the counterclockwise direction in Figure 11(b), and the regulating mechanism 90 moves to an unrestricted position where it does not restrict the swing of the pendulum mechanism 70. With this configuration, the carriage 41, which is the recording means, functions as the pressing means, and there is no need to separately provide a drive source or component to switch the position of the planetary arm lock 91. Consequently, the number of parts of the image forming apparatus M can be reduced, the space can be saved, and the size can be reduced.

[0062] Next, the operation of the pendulum mechanism 70 swinging from the second position to the first position will be described. The pendulum mechanism 70 can swing from the second position to the first position when the regulating mechanism 90 is moved to the un-regulating position and the planetary arm lock 91 does not restrict the swinging of the planetary arm 71. As described above, the input gear 61 is connected to the transport roller 32 via other members. Therefore, when the transport roller 32 rotates due to the driving force of the transport motor 31, the planetary arm 71, which is in contact with the input gear 61, swings in addition to the input gear 61. In this embodiment, when the transport motor 31 is driven in the first direction so that the transport roller 32 rotates in the direction of transporting the recording medium toward the discharge roller, the planetary arm 71 swings in the direction toward the first position from the second position (counterclockwise direction in Figure 11(b)). When the pendulum mechanism 70 is in the first position, the distance between the axes of the planetary gear 73 and the paper feed input gear 13 becomes the shortest distance d, and the first regulating part 71b It contacts the first contact portion 95a. That is, the paper feed gear base 95 having the first contact portion 95a also functions as a first restricting member that restricts the swing of the pendulum mechanism 70. As a result, the swing of the planetary arm 71 in that direction is restricted, and the planetary gear 73 and the paper feed input gear 13 mesh together.

[0063] Figure 11(c) shows the state where the pendulum mechanism 70 is in the first position and the regulating mechanism 90 is in the regulated position. Next, we will explain the operation in which the regulating mechanism 90 swings from the unregulated position to the regulated position, and the image forming apparatus M transitions from the state in Figure 11(b) to the state in Figure 11(c).

[0064] When the carriage 41 retracts from the drive switching position and the pressing portion 41a moves away from the planetary arm lock lever 92, the planetary arm lock lever 92 swings in the counterclockwise direction in Figure 11(c) due to the restoring force of a spring (not shown). That is, the planetary arm lock lever 92 is always biased in that direction by a biasing member. As the planetary arm lock lever 92 swings, the planetary arm lock 91 swings to the restricting position, and the first holding portion 91a moves to a position that blocks the swing trajectory of the planetary gear 73. The first holding portion 91a is positioned to contact the outer diameter of the pivot portion 71a of the planetary gear 73 of the planetary arm 71 when the distance between the axes of the paper feed input gear 13 and the planetary gear 73 is at the longest within a predetermined range. With this configuration, the planetary arm 71 is held by the first contact portion 95a and the first holding portion 91a so that the distance between the axes of the planetary gear 73 and the paper feed input gear 13 is within a predetermined range, and the pendulum mechanism 70 is held in the first position. The first holding portion 91a and the pivot portion 71a are provided on both the axial sides of the planetary arm lock 91 and the planetary arm 71, and the swing of the planetary arm 71 is restricted on both axial sides. When the pendulum mechanism 70 is in the first position and the restricting mechanism 90 is in the restricting position, the first holding portion 91a does not necessarily have to be in contact with the pivot portion 71a, and a gap may be provided as long as it does not affect the drive transmission from the planetary gear 73 to the paper feed input gear 13.

[0065] This configuration ensures the axial distance between the planetary gear 73 and the paper feed input gear 13, resulting in a stable connection and stable drive transmission. In particular, since the planetary arm lock 91, which restricts the oscillation of the pendulum mechanism 70 including the planetary gear 73, oscillates around the rotation axis of the paper feed input gear 13, the axial distance can be guaranteed with higher precision compared to cases where the oscillation axis of the restricting mechanism and the rotation axis of the driven gear are not concentric. This is because there are fewer factors such as dimensional accuracy and positional accuracy of each component that affect the axial distance. Furthermore, according to the present invention, even when a drive unit that utilizes the rotation of the driven gear in both the forward and reverse directions is driven by a pendulum mechanism, the axial distance between the driven gear and the drive gear can be guaranteed, enabling stable drive transmission.

[0066] Figure 11(d) shows the state in which the pendulum mechanism 70 is in the second position and the regulating mechanism 90 is in the unregulated position. Next, the operation in which the pendulum mechanism 70 swings from the first position to the second position and the image forming apparatus M transitions from the state in Figure 11(c) to the state in Figure 11(d) will be described. Note that the operation in which the planetary arm lock lever 92 and planetary arm lock 91 rotate as the carriage 41 moves, causing the regulating mechanism 90 to swing from the unregulated position to the regulated position, is as described above.

[0067] When the transport motor 31 is driven in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the input gear 61 and the planetary arm 71 swing clockwise in Figure 11(d), and the planetary gear 73 moves to a second position where it is separated from the paper feed input gear 13 by a predetermined distance. In this embodiment, the pivot portion 71a of the planetary arm 71 also functions as a second restricting portion that contacts the second contact portion 67a of the base member 67, but a separate restricting portion that contacts the second contact portion 67a may be provided instead of the pivot portion 71a. When the pendulum mechanism 70 is in the second position, the distance between the axes of the planetary gear 73 and the paper feed input gear 13 becomes the longest distance, and the pivot portion 71a contacts the second contact portion 67a. The swing of the planetary arm 71 is then restricted, and the position of the pendulum mechanism 70 is maintained.

[0068] As described above, when the image forming apparatus M transitions from the state shown in Figure 11(d) to the state shown in Figure 11(a), the movement of the regulating mechanism 90 from the unregulated position to the regulated position is as described. When the regulating mechanism 90 moves to the regulated position, the planetary arm 71 is held by the second contact portion 67a and the second holding portion 91b, and the pendulum mechanism 70 is held in the second position, so that the distance between the axes of the planetary gear 73 and the paper feed input gear 13 is within a predetermined range.

[0069] As described above, according to this embodiment, the distance between the planetary gears of the pendulum mechanism and the next-stage gear connected to the planetary gears is maintained with high precision, unintended disconnection of the connection is suppressed, and stable drive transmission becomes possible.

[0070] <Second Example> A second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 13. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the planetary gear 73 can transmit driving force to parts other than the paper feeding section 1, and has multiple driven parts. In the following description of the second embodiment, the same configuration as the first embodiment will be omitted, and only the characteristic configuration of the second embodiment will be described.

[0071] Figure 13 shows the pendulum mechanism 70 and regulating mechanism 90 of this embodiment as viewed from the direction of the pivot center of the planetary arm 71, and shows the planetary gear 73 connected to the recovery input gear 96. In this embodiment, the planetary gear 73 is connected to the recovery input gear 96 when the pendulum mechanism 70 is in the second position. The recovery input gear 96 is pivotally supported on a shaft (not shown) provided on the base member 67. The recovery input gear 96 is the end gear that transmits drive to a recovery unit that maintains the surface condition of the liquid ejection section of the recording head in good condition via a drive train (not shown).

[0072] When the pendulum mechanism 70 is in the second position, the planetary gear 73 is separated from the paper feed input gear 13 by a predetermined distance, and the driving force is transmitted from the planetary gear 73 only to the recovery input gear 96. At this time, the swing trajectory of the planetary arm 71 is blocked by the second holding portion 91b of the planetary arm lock 91, and the position of the pendulum mechanism 70 is restricted so that the distance between the axes of the planetary gear 73 and the recovery input gear 96 does not deviate from a predetermined range. In other words, even if a force is applied to the planetary gear 73 in a direction that separates it from the recovery input gear 96, the pivot portion 71a abuts against the second holding portion 91b, restricting the swing of the planetary arm 71, thereby preventing the connection between the planetary gear 73 and the recovery input gear 96 from being severed.

[0073] In this embodiment, the pendulum mechanism is configured to selectively transmit driving force to the first driven unit as the paper feeding unit and the second driven unit as the recovery unit. However, in applying the present invention, the destination of the driving force may be other units.

[0074] <Effects of the Invention> The effects and benefits obtained from the configuration described above will now be explained in more detail. The planetary arm lock 91 is configured to swing around the rotation axis of the paper feed input gear 13. When the pendulum mechanism 70 is in the first position, the planetary arm lock 91 restricts the swinging of the planetary arm 71 in the direction that the planetary gear 73 moves away from the paper feed input gear 13 at the first holding part 91a. With this configuration, even if a force acts on the planetary gear 73 in the direction that moves it away from the paper feed input gear 13, or if the pendulum mechanism 70 swings in the direction that moves the planetary gear 73 away from the paper feed input gear 13, fluctuations in the distance between the axes of the planetary gear 73 and the paper feed input gear 13 can be kept to a minimum. In particular, compared to a configuration in which the swing axis of the planetary arm lock 91 and the rotation axis of the paper feed input gear 13 are not concentric, the distance between the axes can be guaranteed with high precision, thus stabilizing the connection between the planetary gear 73 and the paper feed input gear 13 and enabling stable drive transmission.

[0075] Furthermore, when the pendulum mechanism 70 is in the second position, the planetary arm lock 91 is in the second holding part 9 In 1b, the planetary arm 71 is restricted from swinging in the direction that the planetary gear 73 approaches the paper feed input gear 13. With this configuration, even when the planetary gear 73 is not connected to the paper feed input gear 13, the drive disconnection state is stably maintained even if a force is applied to the planetary gear 73 in the direction that moves it toward the paper feed input gear 13. Furthermore, since it is possible to prevent the planetary gear 73 from unintentionally approaching the paper feed input gear 13, the distance between the planetary gear 73 and the paper feed input gear 13 can be kept small. Compared to a configuration in which the swing axis of the planetary arm lock 91 and the rotation axis of the paper feed input gear 13 are not concentric, this distance can be guaranteed with greater precision. Consequently, since it is not necessary to move the planetary gear 73 far away from the paper feed input gear 13, it becomes possible to set a smaller swing range for the planetary arm 71, and thus it becomes possible to reduce the size of the drive switching unit.

[0076] Furthermore, as shown in the second embodiment, even in a configuration where the drive switching unit has two drive transmission destinations, the distance between the axes of the planetary gear 73 and the recovery input gear 96 can be accurately guaranteed, the connection state between the planetary gear 73 and the recovery input gear 96 is stable, and stable drive transmission becomes possible.

[0077] Furthermore, the pendulum mechanism 70 in this embodiment is composed of two gears: a sun gear 72 and a planetary gear 73. Therefore, since the number of gears in the pendulum mechanism is kept to a minimum, the present invention can suppress a decrease in the efficiency of drive transmission, suppress twisting of the planetary arm 71, and enable more stable drive transmission.

[0078] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, when the planetary gear 73 is connected to the paper feed input gear 13, the straight line connecting the rotation center of the planetary gear 73 and the rotation center of the paper feed input gear 13 is perpendicular to the straight line connecting the oscillation center of the planetary arm 71 and the rotation center of the planetary gear 73. With this configuration, the direction of extension of the straight line connecting the rotation center of the planetary gear 73 and the rotation center of the paper feed input gear 13 coincides with the oscillation direction of the planetary gear 73, thereby enhancing the effect of the planetary arm lock 91 in suppressing fluctuations in the interaxial distance between the planetary gear 73 and the paper feed input gear 13.

[0079] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the shaft support portion 71a, which supports the planetary gear 73 and also functions as a restricted portion, contacts the first holding portion 91a, which is a restricted portion of the planetary arm lock 91, thereby restricting the swing of the pendulum mechanism 70. With this configuration, compared to a configuration in which the restricted portion is located at a position away from the planetary gear 73, it is possible to suppress fluctuations in the interaxial distance between the planetary gear 73 and the paper feed input gear 13, and stable drive transmission to the paper feed input gear 13 becomes possible.

[0080] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the first holding portion 91a, which blocks the oscillation trajectory of the planetary arm 71, is provided on both sides of the planetary gear 73 in the direction of the rotation axis. Therefore, twisting and tilting of the planetary arm 71 can be suppressed, and fluctuations in the inter-axis distance can be suppressed, thus enabling stable drive transmission.

[0081] Furthermore, when the pendulum mechanism 70 is in the first position, the first contact portion 95a of the paper feed gear base 95 restricts the swing of the planetary arm 71 in the direction of approaching the paper feed input gear 13. This configuration prevents the distance between the axes of the planetary gear 73 and the paper feed input gear 13 from becoming excessively small, and prevents the planetary gear 73 from biting into the paper feed input gear 13. Similarly, when the pendulum mechanism 70 is in the second position, the second contact portion 67a of the base member 67 restricts the swing of the planetary arm 71 in the direction of approaching the recovery input gear 96. This configuration prevents the distance between the axes of the planetary gear 73 and the recovery input gear 96 from becoming excessively small, and prevents the planetary gear 73 from biting into the recovery input gear 96. In turn, it is possible to suppress an increase in the drive load and enable stable drive transmission.

[0082] As described above, according to the present invention, the driving force is selectively transmitted by the drive gear (planetary gear) of the pendulum mechanism. Even with configurations that reach this point, the distance between the axes of the drive gear and the driven gear can be accurately guaranteed, enabling stable power transmission. The present invention is particularly effective in configurations where the drive source rotates in both forward and reverse directions, and a force acts on the drive gear in a direction that separates it from the driven gear, as in the above-described embodiment, because it enables stable power transmission regardless of the rotation direction of the drive source.

[0083] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the position of the planetary arm lock 91 connected to the planetary arm lock lever 92 is indirectly switched by bringing the pressing portion 41a provided on the carriage 41 into contact with the tip of the planetary arm lock lever 92 and causing it to swing. With this configuration, there is no need to provide a separate drive source for switching the position of the planetary arm lock 91, thus enabling a reduction in the number of parts, space saving, and miniaturization of the image forming apparatus M.

[0084] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the pivot axes of the planetary arm 71 and the drive member 82 are configured to be coaxial with the rotation axis of the input gear 61. This configuration eliminates the need to provide separate input gears for each drive unit, thereby reducing the number of parts, saving space, and miniaturizing the image forming apparatus M.

[0085] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the input gear 61 is pivotally supported on both sides in its axial direction by fitting holes 67d and 68e, which suppresses fluctuations in the axial distance with the connecting component due to shaft tilting, enabling stable drive transmission. In addition, the planetary arm 71 and the sun gear 72 are held between the base member 67 and the cover member 68 by the input gear 61, which, like the input gear 61, suppresses fluctuations in the axial distance with the connecting component due to shaft tilting, enabling stable drive switching and drive transmission.

[0086] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the drive member 82 has a cylindrical shaft portion which is a rotating shaft portion, and is held by the input gear 61 by being inserted into the inner diameter side of the cylindrical shaft portion of the input gear 61. With this configuration, the drive member 82 can be supported at the support position of the input gear 61 by the base member 67, so the support state of the drive member 82 is stable, and stable drive transmission to the drive member 82 becomes possible.

[0087] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the rotation axis of the roller holder 51 is configured to be coaxial with the rotation axis of the input gear 61. This configuration eliminates the need to provide separate input gears for each drive unit, thereby reducing the number of parts, saving space, and miniaturizing the image forming apparatus M.

[0088] This embodiment includes the following configuration (and method). (Composition 1) Power source and A driven unit having a driven gear, A drive transmission mechanism having a drive gear driven by the aforementioned drive source, the drive gear being able to swing between a first position in which it meshes with the driven gear and a second position in which it does not mesh with the driven gear, A restricting mechanism that can swing between a restricting position that restricts the swinging of the drive transmission mechanism and an unrestricted position that does not restrict the swinging of the drive transmission mechanism, A recording device comprising, The recording device is characterized in that the regulating mechanism is pivotable around the rotation axis of the driven gear. (Configuration 2) The recording device according to configuration 1, characterized in that the regulating mechanism restricts the drive transmission mechanism, which is in the first position, from swinging toward the second position. (Composition 3) The recording device according to configuration 2, characterized in that the regulating mechanism restricts the drive transmission mechanism, which is in the second position, from swinging toward the first position. (Composition 4) The regulating mechanism includes a regulating member having an arm portion that extends in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the driven gear and swings about the rotation axis of the driven gear, and a projection portion that protrudes from the arm portion in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the driven gear, The recording device according to configuration 3, characterized in that the regulating member has a projection that contacts the drive transmission mechanism to restrict the oscillation of the drive transmission mechanism. (Composition 5) The drive transmission mechanism has a pivot portion that pivotally supports the drive gear, The recording device according to configuration 4, characterized in that when the regulating mechanism is in the regulating position, the projection is located on the oscillation trajectory of the pivot support. (Composition 6) The recording device according to configuration 5, characterized in that the projection includes a first surface that abuts against the shaft support when the drive transmission mechanism is in the first position, and a second surface that abuts against the shaft support when the drive transmission mechanism is in the second position. (Composition 7) A first restricting member restricts the drive transmission mechanism from swinging in a direction that brings the drive gear closer to the driven gear when the drive transmission mechanism is in the first position, A second restricting member that restricts the drive transmission mechanism from swinging in a direction that moves the drive gear away from the driven gear when the drive transmission mechanism is in the second position, A recording device according to any one of the configurations 1 to 6, further comprising the above. (Composition 8) A pressing means for pressing the regulating mechanism and causing it to swing from the unregulated position to the regulated position, A biasing member that biases the regulating mechanism in a direction that causes it to swing from the regulated position to the unregulated position, A recording device according to any one of the configurations 1 to 7, further comprising the above. (Composition 9) The pressing means is a recording means that is equipped with a recording head for recording on a recording medium and performs a reciprocating scan, The recording device according to configuration 8, characterized in that the recording means is movable between a pressing position that presses against the regulating mechanism and a non-pressing position that is separated from the regulating mechanism. (Composition 10) The drive transmission mechanism further includes a sun gear to which the driving force of the drive source is transmitted, The aforementioned drive gear is a planetary gear that meshes with the aforementioned sun gear, The recording device according to any one of configurations 1 to 9, characterized in that the drive transmission mechanism oscillates around the rotation axis of the sun gear. (Composition 11) The recording device according to configuration 10, characterized in that when the drive transmission mechanism is in the first position, when viewed from the direction of the rotation axis of the planetary gear, the straight line connecting the rotation center of the planetary gear and the rotation center of the driven gear and the straight line connecting the rotation center of the planetary gear and the oscillation center of the drive transmission mechanism are perpendicular. (Composition 12) The aforementioned drive source is a motor capable of forward and reverse rotation, A recording device according to any one of configurations 1 to 11, characterized in that the drive transmission mechanism swings from the second position to the first position due to rotation of the motor in a first direction, and the drive transmission mechanism swings from the first position to the second position due to rotation in a second direction opposite to the first direction. (Composition 13) The driven unit is a paper feed unit that feeds a recording medium, and is characterized by configurations 1 to 12. A recording device described in any one of the configurations. (Composition 14) The driven part is the first driven part, A recording device according to any one of configurations 1 to 13, further comprising a second driven part connected to the drive gear when the drive transmission mechanism is in the second position. (Composition 15) A recording means equipped with a recording head that performs reciprocating scanning for recording on a recording medium, A locking mechanism that is oscillated by the aforementioned drive source, the locking mechanism being able to swing between an operating position that restricts scanning of the recording means and a non-operating position that does not restrict scanning of the recording means, A recording device according to any one of the configurations 1 to 14, further comprising the above. (Composition 16) The recording apparatus according to configuration 15, characterized in that the locking mechanism has a lever member that is located on the scanning path of the recording means and contacts the recording means when in the operating position, and a lever member that retracts from the scanning path when in the non-operating position. (Composition 17) The drive transmission mechanism includes an input shaft that is rotationally driven by the drive source, The system further includes a sun gear that receives driving force from the input shaft and is rotatable about the rotation axis of the input shaft, The locking mechanism further includes a rotating member that transmits drive to the lever member and is driven by the input shaft, and is capable of rotating about the rotation axis of the input shaft. The system further comprises two support members, each having a support portion that supports the input shaft. The aforementioned sun gear is disposed between two pivot members, The recording device according to configuration 16, characterized in that the rotating member and the lever member are provided on the side opposite to the sun gear with respect to one of the pivot members. (Composition 18) The input shaft has a cylindrical portion at the axial end of the rotation axis of the input shaft, The recording device according to configuration 17, characterized in that the rotating member is pivotally supported on the cylindrical portion of the input shaft. (Composition 19) The recording device further comprises a suction mechanism for drawing liquid from the recording head. The suction mechanism further includes a rotating member that is able to rotate around the rotation axis of the input shaft by receiving a driving force from the input shaft, and can switch between suction and non-suction depending on the rotation direction of the rotating member. The recording device according to configuration 17 or 18, characterized in that the rotating member is provided on the opposite side of the sun gear to the other side of the pivot member. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0089] 13...Paper feed input gear (driven gear), 31...Transport motor (drive source), 70...Pendulum mechanism (drive transmission mechanism), 73...Planetary gear (drive gear), 90...Regulating mechanism, M...Image forming apparatus

Claims

1. Power source and A driven unit having a driven gear, A drive transmission mechanism having a drive gear driven by the aforementioned drive source, the drive gear being able to swing between a first position in which it meshes with the driven gear and a second position in which it does not mesh with the driven gear, A restricting mechanism that can swing between a restricting position that restricts the swinging of the drive transmission mechanism and an unrestricted position that does not restrict the swinging of the drive transmission mechanism, A recording device comprising, The recording device is characterized in that the regulating mechanism is pivotable about the rotation axis of the driven gear and restricts the drive transmission mechanism, which is in the first position, from pivoting toward the second position.

2. The recording device according to claim 1, characterized in that the regulating mechanism restricts the drive transmission mechanism, which is in the second position, from swinging toward the first position.

3. The regulating mechanism includes a regulating member having an arm portion that extends in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the driven gear and swings about the rotation axis of the driven gear, and a projection portion that protrudes from the arm portion in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the driven gear, The recording device according to claim 2, characterized in that the regulating member has a projection that contacts the drive transmission mechanism to restrict the oscillation of the drive transmission mechanism.

4. The drive transmission mechanism has a pivot portion that pivotally supports the drive gear, The recording device according to claim 3, characterized in that when the regulating mechanism is in the regulating position, the projection is located on the oscillation trajectory of the pivot support.

5. The recording device according to claim 4, characterized in that the projection includes a first surface that abuts against the shaft support when the drive transmission mechanism is in the first position, and a second surface that abuts against the shaft support when the drive transmission mechanism is in the second position.

6. A first restricting member restricts the drive transmission mechanism from swinging in a direction that brings the drive gear closer to the driven gear when the drive transmission mechanism is in the first position, A second restricting member restricts the drive transmission mechanism from swinging in a direction that moves the drive gear away from the driven gear when the drive transmission mechanism is in the second position, The recording device according to claim 1, further comprising the following:

7. A pressing means for pressing the regulating mechanism and causing it to swing from the regulated position to the unregulated position, A biasing member that biases the regulating mechanism in a direction that causes it to swing from the non-regulating position to the regulating position, The recording device according to claim 1, further comprising the following:

8. The pressing means is a recording means that is equipped with a recording head for recording on a recording medium and performs a reciprocating scan, The recording device according to claim 7, characterized in that the recording means is movable between a pressing position that presses against the regulating mechanism and a non-pressing position that is separated from the regulating mechanism.

9. The drive transmission mechanism further includes a sun gear to which the driving force of the drive source is transmitted, The aforementioned drive gear is a planetary gear that meshes with the aforementioned sun gear, The recording device according to claim 1, characterized in that the drive transmission mechanism oscillates around the rotation axis of the sun gear.

10. The recording device according to claim 9, characterized in that when the drive transmission mechanism is in the first position, when viewed from the axis of rotation of the planetary gear, the straight line connecting the rotation center of the planetary gear and the rotation center of the driven gear and the straight line connecting the rotation center of the planetary gear and the oscillation center of the drive transmission mechanism are perpendicular to each other.

11. The aforementioned drive source is a motor capable of forward and reverse rotation, The recording device according to claim 1, characterized in that the drive transmission mechanism swings from the second position to the first position due to the rotation of the motor in a first direction, and the drive transmission mechanism swings from the first position to the second position due to the rotation in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

12. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the driven unit is a paper feeding unit that feeds a recording medium.

13. The driven part is the first driven part, The recording device according to claim 1, further comprising a second driven part connected to the drive gear when the drive transmission mechanism is in the second position.

14. A recording means equipped with a recording head that performs reciprocating scanning for recording on a recording medium, A locking mechanism that is oscillated by the aforementioned drive source, the locking mechanism being able to swing between an operating position that restricts scanning of the recording means and a non-operating position that does not restrict scanning of the recording means, The recording device according to claim 1, further comprising the following:

15. The recording apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the locking mechanism has a lever member that is located on the scanning path of the recording means and contacts the recording means when in the operating position, and a lever member that retracts from the scanning path when in the non-operating position.

16. The drive transmission mechanism includes an input shaft that is rotationally driven by the drive source, The system further includes a sun gear that receives driving force from the input shaft and is rotatable about the rotation axis of the input shaft, The locking mechanism further includes a rotating member that transmits drive to the lever member and is driven by the input shaft, and is capable of rotating about the rotation axis of the input shaft. The system further comprises two support members, each having a support portion that supports the input shaft. The aforementioned sun gear is disposed between the two pivot members, The recording device according to claim 15, characterized in that the rotating member and the lever member are provided on the side opposite to the sun gear with respect to one of the pivot members.

17. The input shaft has a cylindrical portion at the axial end of the rotation axis of the input shaft, The recording device according to claim 16, characterized in that the rotating member is pivotally supported on the cylindrical portion of the input shaft.

18. The recording device further comprises a suction mechanism for drawing liquid from the recording head. The suction mechanism further includes a rotating member that is able to rotate around the rotation axis of the input shaft by receiving a driving force from the input shaft, and can switch between suction and non-suction depending on the rotation direction of the rotating member. The recording device according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that the rotating member is provided on the opposite side of the sun gear to the other side of the pivot member.

Images