JP4695445B2

JP4695445B2 - Process cartridge and image forming apparatus

Info

Publication number: JP4695445B2
Application number: JP2005176889A
Authority: JP
Inventors: 伸一加藤
Original assignee: Ricoh Co Ltd
Current assignee: Ricoh Co Ltd
Priority date: 2005-06-16
Filing date: 2005-06-16
Publication date: 2011-06-08
Anticipated expiration: 2025-06-16
Also published as: JP2006350033A

Description

本発明は、像担持体上に形成された静電潜像を現像剤で可視像化するプロセスカートリッジおよび該プロセスカートリッジを具備した、複写機、ファクシミリ、レーザープリンタ、プロッタ、複合機等の画像形成装置に関する。 The present invention relates to a process cartridge that visualizes an electrostatic latent image formed on an image carrier with a developer, and an image of a copying machine, a facsimile, a laser printer, a plotter, a multifunction machine, or the like, which includes the process cartridge. The present invention relates to a forming apparatus.

電子写真方式により画像形成を行なう画像形成装置においては、小型化並びに保守交換などメンテナンスの容易さの点から、像担持体上に形成された静電潜像を現像剤で可視像化する機能を有する装置をプロセスカートリッジとしてユニット化し、これを画像形成装置本体に対して着脱可能に構成している。
例えば、像担持体を含む第１枠体と現像剤担持体を含む第２枠体を結合し、これら両枠体を回動可能に支持する結合部材を有するプロセスカートリッジが知られている（例えば、特許文献１、２参照）。 In an image forming apparatus that forms an image by an electrophotographic method, a function of making an electrostatic latent image formed on an image carrier visible with a developer from the viewpoint of downsizing and ease of maintenance such as maintenance and replacement. Is formed as a unit as a process cartridge, and is configured to be detachable from the image forming apparatus main body.
For example, a process cartridge having a coupling member that couples a first frame including an image carrier and a second frame including a developer carrier and rotatably supports both the frames is known (for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2).

前記特許文献１は、結合の支点をドラムギアとスリーブギアの噛み合い圧力方向に配置し、且つ噛み合い圧力角方向の直交方向に移動可能に支持される構成とすることにより、駆動時に第二枠体を回転させる回転モーメントが生じない位置に支点部を位置決めし、電子写真感光体に対する現像剤担持体の加圧力を安定させ、良好な画像を得ることに関して開示する。 In Patent Document 1, the coupling fulcrum is arranged in the meshing pressure direction of the drum gear and the sleeve gear, and is configured to be supported so as to be movable in a direction orthogonal to the meshing pressure angle direction, so that the second frame body is driven during driving. It is disclosed that a fulcrum portion is positioned at a position where no rotational moment to rotate is generated, the pressure applied by the developer carrier to the electrophotographic photosensitive member is stabilized, and a good image is obtained.

また、前記特許文献２は、第１の枠体と第２の枠体を長手方向の回動中心でもって回転するように結合する結合ピンであって、画像形成装置本体にプロセスカートリッジを着脱する際画像形成装置本体に設けられたガイド溝に沿ってガイド溝中へ入出する位置に位置するように長手方向外側に突出して設けられた結合ピンについて開示する。 Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H10-228561 is a coupling pin that couples a first frame and a second frame so as to rotate about a rotation center in a longitudinal direction, and attaches and detaches a process cartridge to and from the image forming apparatus main body. A connecting pin that protrudes outward in the longitudinal direction so as to be located at a position that enters and exits the guide groove along the guide groove provided in the image forming apparatus main body is disclosed.

一方、近年は印字あたりのコスト削減や部品リサイクルのため、従来のようにプロセスカートリッジを全体として交換するのではなく、プロセスカートリッジ自体の構成部品の交換を迅速、容易化して再利用を可能にする構成が要求されている。 On the other hand, in recent years, instead of replacing the process cartridge as a whole in order to reduce the cost per printing and to recycle parts, the process cartridge itself can be quickly and easily replaced for reuse. Configuration is required.

しかし、従来、プロセスカートリッジの分解、組み立て性についてあまり配慮されていない。例えば、上記特許文献２では、段落［００３６］に、結合ピンの端面を工具で掴み、プロセスカートリッジ自体を容易に分解できる、との開示があるように、プロセスカートリッジの分解性について開示するものの、このように分解した場合、再び結合ピンを差し込んで組み立てなければならない。 Conventionally, however, the process cartridge has not been much considered for disassembly and assembly. For example, in the above-mentioned Patent Document 2, although the paragraph [0036] discloses that the process cartridge itself can be easily disassembled by grasping the end face of the coupling pin with a tool, the disassembly of the process cartridge is disclosed. When disassembled in this way, the connecting pin must be reinserted and assembled.

特開２００１−６６９７０号公報JP 2001-66970 A 特開２００２−１０８１７４号公報JP 2002-108174 A

本発明は、プロセスカートリッジ自体を分解することなく保守可能な状態に変位させ、かつ、復元可能なプロセスカートリッジおよびこのプロセスカートリッジを用いた画像形成装置を提供することを課題する。 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a process cartridge that can be displaced and maintained in a maintainable state without disassembling the process cartridge itself, and an image forming apparatus using the process cartridge.

前記課題を達成するため（１）請求項１にかかる発明は、滑らかに回転できる手段により像担持体を内部に保持する第１ユニットと、滑らかに回転できる手段により現像剤担持体を内部に保持する第２ユニットとが共通軸を共通旋回軸として互いに旋回可能に連結され、該共通軸によるこれらユニット間の結合を解除することなく、前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体との距離が調整可能なプロセスカートリッジであって、
前記第１ユニットと前記第２ユニットが前記共通旋回軸を中心に回動し、前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体とが最接近する位置付近において前記何れかのユニット側または前記両方のユニット上に設けられた突起形状が相手のユニットと当接することにより前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体同士が干渉しない任意の距離を確保し回動を規制すること、
前記第１ユニットと前記第２ユニットは前記共通旋回軸を中心に回動し、前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体とが接近する位置付近において前記何れかのユニット側に設けられたストッパ挿入用穴に相手のユニット側への回動が係止されるように形成された突起形状のストッパが挿入されることにより、前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体同士が干渉しない任意の距離を確保した位置で回動の係止、保持をすること、
前記ストッパは前記両ユニットの何れかの側に設けられていて、概略返り爪形状を形成しており、前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体との間の距離が遠くなる方向の回動を規制することができ、かつ前記両ユニット間に前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体間の距離が遠くなる方向に付勢力を生ずる付勢手段を有することにより、前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体同士が干渉しない任意の距離を確保した位置で回動の係止、保持をすること、が可能であり、
前記第１ユニットと前記第２ユニットの何れかまたは両方が回動することにより、前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体とが概略最も離れる位置に旋回した姿勢において、前記各枠体の外形が任意の平面に対して、重力を利用して安定した姿勢を保てる形状を有することにした。
（２）請求項２にかかる発明は、滑らかに回転できる手段により像担持体を内部に保持する第１ユニットと、滑らかに回転できる手段により現像剤担持体を内部に保持する第２ユニットとが共通軸を共通旋回軸として互いに旋回可能に連結され、該共通軸によるこれらユニット間の結合を解除することなく、前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体との距離が調整可能なプロセスカートリッジであって、
前記第１ユニットと前記第２ユニットが前記共通旋回軸を中心に回動し、前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体とが最接近する位置付近において前記何れかのユニット側または前記両方のユニット上に設けられた突起形状が相手のユニットと当接することにより前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体同士が干渉しない任意の距離を確保し回動を規制すること、
前記第１ユニットと前記第２ユニットは前記共通旋回軸を中心に回動し、前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体とが接近する位置付近において前記何れかのユニット側に設けられたストッパ挿入用穴に相手のユニット側への回動が係止されるように形成された突起形状のストッパが挿入されることにより、前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体同士が干渉しない任意の距離を確保した位置で回動の係止、保持をすること、
前記ストッパは前記両ユニットの何れかの側に設けられていて、概略返り爪形状を形成しており、前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体との間の距離が遠くなる方向の回動を規制することができ、かつ前記両ユニット間に前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体間の距離が遠くなる方向に付勢力を生ずる付勢手段を有することにより、前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体同士が干渉しない任意の距離を確保した位置で回動の係止、保持をすること、が可能であり、
前記第１ユニットと前記第２ユニットの何れかまたは両方が回動することにより、前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体とが概略最も離れる位置に旋回した姿勢において、前記各枠体の外形が任意の平面に対して、重力を利用して安定した姿勢を保てる形状を有し、
前記第１ユニットと前記第２ユニットの構成と同様に、前記第２ユニット内の現像剤担持体部が単独ユニットとして共通軸を中心に旋回可能に連結した構成であることとした。
（３）請求項３にかかる発明は、像担持体と現像剤担持体を含むプロセスカートリッジを着脱自在とし、前記像担持体に形成された静電潜像を前記現像剤担持体を用いてトナーを含む現像剤で可視像化し、この可視像をシート状媒体に転写、定着して画像を得る画像形成装置において、前記プロセスカートリッジとして、以下に記載のプロセスカートリッジを具備することを特徴とする画像形成装置。
滑らかに回転できる手段により像担持体を内部に保持する第１ユニットと、滑らかに回転できる手段により現像剤担持体を内部に保持する第２ユニットとが共通軸を共通旋回軸として互いに旋回可能に連結され、該共通軸によるこれらユニット間の結合を解除することなく、前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体との距離が調整可能なプロセスカートリッジであって、
前記第１ユニットと前記第２ユニットは前記共通旋回軸を中心に回動し、前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体とが最接近する位置付近において前記何れかのユニット側または前記両方のユニット上に設けられた突起形状が相手のユニットと当接することにより前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体同士が干渉しない任意の距離を確保して回動を規制すること、
前記第１ユニットと前記第２ユニットは前記共通旋回軸を中心に回動し、前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体とが接近する位置付近において前記何れかのユニット側に設けられたストッパ挿入用穴に相手のユニット側への回動が係止されるように形成された突起形状のストッパが挿入されることにより、前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体同士が干渉しない任意の距離を確保した位置で回動の係止、保持をすること、
前記ストッパは前記両ユニットの何れかの側に設けられていて、概略返り爪形状を形成しており、前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体との間の距離が遠くなる方向の回動を規制することができ、かつ前記両ユニット間に前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体間の距離が遠くなる方向に付勢力を生ずる付勢手段を有することにより、前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体同士が干渉しない任意の距離を確保した位置で回動の係止、保持をすること、が可能であり、
前記第１ユニットと前記第２ユニットの何れかまたは両方が回動することにより、前記像担持体と前記現像剤担持体とが概略最も離れる位置に旋回した姿勢において、前記各枠体の外形が任意の平面に対して、重力を利用して安定した姿勢を保てる形状を有し、
前記第１ユニットと前記第２ユニットの構成と同様に、前記第２ユニット内の現像剤担持体部が単独ユニットとして共通軸を中心に旋回可能に連結した構成のプロセスカートリッジ。 The order to achieve the object (1) The invention according to claim 1, holding a developer carrying member internally smoothly by rotating it means a first unit for holding the image bearing member therein, by means which can rotate smoothly And a second unit that is pivotably connected to each other with a common axis as a common pivot axis, and the distance between the image carrier and the developer carrier can be adjusted without releasing the coupling between the units by the common axis. a possible process cartridge,
The first unit and the second unit are rotated around the common pivot axis, and either one of the unit side or both units near the position where the image carrier and the developer carrier are closest to each other. The protrusion shape provided above abuts the counterpart unit to secure an arbitrary distance that does not cause interference between the image carrier and the developer carrier, and to restrict rotation.
The first unit and the second unit rotate about the common pivot axis, and a stopper is provided on either side of the unit near the position where the image carrier and the developer carrier are close to each other. By inserting a protrusion-shaped stopper formed so that the rotation to the other unit side is locked in the hole, an arbitrary distance at which the image carrier and the developer carrier do not interfere with each other can be obtained. Locking and holding the rotation at the secured position,
The stopper is provided on either side of the both units, and has a generally return claw shape, and rotates in a direction in which the distance between the image carrier and the developer carrier is increased. The image carrier and the developer can be regulated and have a biasing means for generating a biasing force in a direction in which the distance between the image carrier and the developer carrier is increased between the two units. It is possible to lock and hold the rotation at a position that secures an arbitrary distance where the carriers do not interfere with each other,
When one or both of the first unit and the second unit are rotated, the outer shape of each frame body is in a posture in which the image carrier and the developer carrier are pivoted to the positions that are most separated from each other. It was decided to have a shape that can maintain a stable posture by using gravity with respect to an arbitrary plane .
(2) In the invention according to claim 2, the first unit that holds the image carrier inside by means that can rotate smoothly, and the second unit that holds the developer carrier inside by means that can smoothly rotate. A process cartridge that is pivotably connected to each other with a common shaft as a common pivot, and the distance between the image carrier and the developer carrier can be adjusted without releasing the coupling between the units by the common shaft. And
The first unit and the second unit are rotated around the common pivot axis, and either one of the unit side or both units near the position where the image carrier and the developer carrier are closest to each other. The protrusion shape provided above abuts the counterpart unit to secure an arbitrary distance that does not cause interference between the image carrier and the developer carrier, and to restrict rotation.
The first unit and the second unit rotate about the common pivot axis, and a stopper is provided on either side of the unit near the position where the image carrier and the developer carrier are close to each other. By inserting a protrusion-shaped stopper formed so that the rotation to the other unit side is locked in the hole, an arbitrary distance at which the image carrier and the developer carrier do not interfere with each other can be obtained. Locking and holding the rotation at the secured position,
The stopper is provided on either side of the both units, and has a generally return claw shape, and rotates in a direction in which the distance between the image carrier and the developer carrier is increased. The image carrier and the developer can be regulated and have a biasing means for generating a biasing force in a direction in which the distance between the image carrier and the developer carrier is increased between the two units. It is possible to lock and hold the rotation at a position that secures an arbitrary distance where the carriers do not interfere with each other,
When one or both of the first unit and the second unit are rotated, the outer shape of each frame body is in a posture in which the image carrier and the developer carrier are pivoted to the positions that are most separated from each other. For any plane, it has a shape that can maintain a stable posture using gravity,
Wherein the same as that of the first unit and the second unit, the developer carrying body in the second unit has a configuration der Rukoto linked pivotably about a common axis as a single unit.
(3) According to a third aspect of the present invention, a process cartridge including an image carrier and a developer carrier is detachable, and an electrostatic latent image formed on the image carrier is transferred to the toner using the developer carrier. In an image forming apparatus that obtains an image by developing a visible image with a developer containing, and transferring and fixing the visible image on a sheet-like medium, the process cartridge includes the process cartridge described below. Image forming apparatus.
The first unit that holds the image carrier inside by means that can rotate smoothly and the second unit that holds the developer carrier inside by means that can rotate smoothly can rotate around each other with a common axis as a common rotation axis. A process cartridge that is connected and capable of adjusting the distance between the image carrier and the developer carrier without releasing the coupling between the units by the common shaft,
The first unit and the second unit are rotated about the common pivot axis, and either one of the unit side or both units in the vicinity of a position where the image carrier and the developer carrier are closest to each other. The protrusion shape provided on the upper surface is in contact with the counterpart unit to secure an arbitrary distance that does not cause interference between the image carrier and the developer carrier, thereby restricting rotation.
The first unit and the second unit is rotated about the common pivot axis, stopper the image bearing member and said developer carrying member is provided on said one of the units side near the position of proximity the Rukoto stopper formed protrusion shaped as rotation of the insertion hole to the other of the unit side is engaged is inserted, any distance which the developer carrier together with the image bearing member does not interfere locking the pivot position ensuring, to the holding,
The stopper is provided on either side of the both units, and has a generally return claw shape, and rotates in a direction in which the distance between the image carrier and the developer carrier is increased. The image carrier and the developer can be regulated and have a biasing means for generating a biasing force in a direction in which the distance between the image carrier and the developer carrier is increased between the two units. It is possible to lock and hold the rotation at a position that secures an arbitrary distance where the carriers do not interfere with each other,
When one or both of the first unit and the second unit are rotated, the outer shape of each frame body is in a posture in which the image carrier and the developer carrier are pivoted to the positions that are most separated from each other. For any plane, it has a shape that can maintain a stable posture using gravity,
Similarly to the configurations of the first unit and the second unit, a process cartridge having a configuration in which the developer carrying member in the second unit is connected as a single unit so as to be rotatable about a common axis.

この発明では、像担持体を含む第１ユニットと現像剤担持体を含む第２ユニットとを共通軸により互いに旋回可能に連結し、該共通軸によるこれらユニット間の結合を解除することなく、開状態および閉状態を復元可能にしたので、プロセスカートリッジ自体を分解することなく保守可能な状態に変位させ、かつ、復元可能である。 In the present invention, the first unit including the image bearing member and the second unit including the developer bearing member are connected to each other so as to be pivotable by a common shaft, and can be opened without releasing the coupling between the units by the common shaft. Since the state and the closed state can be restored, the process cartridge itself can be displaced into a maintainable state without being disassembled and can be restored.

以下に、この発明の実施の形態を説明する。
［例１］
本発明にかかるプロセスカートリッジの断面を示した図１において、像担持体としての感光体ドラム１のまわりには、矢印で示す回転方向順に、帯電器３、現像剤担持体としての現像ローラ７、感光体クリ−ニング部２などが配置されている。感光体クリ−ニング部２に隣接して廃トナ−排出部４が設けられている。また、帯電器３と現像ローラ７との間の感光体ドラム１の周面部は露光部となっており、現像ローラ７と感光体クリーニング部２との間の感光体ドラム１の周面部に転写ユニット９０が配置されて転写部が構成され、該感光体ドラム上に担持されるトナー像が該転写部でシート状媒体に転写される。 Embodiments of the present invention will be described below.
[Example 1]
In FIG. 1 showing a cross section of a process cartridge according to the present invention, a charger 3 and a developing roller 7 as a developer carrier are arranged around a photosensitive drum 1 as an image carrier in the order of rotation indicated by arrows. A photoreceptor cleaning unit 2 and the like are disposed. A waste toner discharge section 4 is provided adjacent to the photoreceptor cleaning section 2. The peripheral surface portion of the photosensitive drum 1 between the charger 3 and the developing roller 7 is an exposure portion, and is transferred to the peripheral surface portion of the photosensitive drum 1 between the developing roller 7 and the photosensitive member cleaning portion 2. The unit 90 is arranged to constitute a transfer unit, and a toner image carried on the photosensitive drum is transferred to a sheet-like medium by the transfer unit.

これら感光体ドラム１、帯電器３、現像ローラ７、感光体クリ−ニング部２、廃トナ−排出部４などは筐体状のフレームに取り付けられて第１ユニットであるドラムユニット５を構成している。
一方、現像剤担持体としての現像ロ−ラ７、この現像ローラ７にトナーを含む現像剤を搬送する搬送スクリューなどからなる現像剤搬送部８、トナーとキャリアを攪拌しつつ現像剤搬送部８に搬送する搬送スクリューなどからなるトナ−供給攪拌部９などが筐体状のフレームに取り付けられて、現像ユニット１０を構成している。 The photosensitive drum 1, the charger 3, the developing roller 7, the photosensitive member cleaning unit 2, the waste toner discharging unit 4 and the like are attached to a housing-like frame to constitute a drum unit 5 as a first unit. Yes.
On the other hand, a developing roller 7 as a developer carrying member, a developer conveying portion 8 including a conveying screw for conveying a developer containing toner to the developing roller 7, and a developer conveying portion 8 while stirring the toner and the carrier. A developing unit 10 is configured by attaching a toner supply stirring unit 9 including a conveying screw to be conveyed to the housing, and the like.

感光体ドラム１は紙面に垂直な軸線Ｏを有し、現像ローラの軸線もこの軸線Ｏと平行である。この軸線Ｏと平行な方向に設けられたヒンジピン６は、ドラムユニット５と現像ユニット１０とを共通に連結する共通軸である。ドラムユニット５から突出した支持部５ａと現像ユニット１０から突出した支持部１０ａとの重なり部に形成された嵌合穴１１で感光体ドラム１の軸線方向、つまり長手方向から差し込まれ、支持部５ａ、１０ａに対して共通に嵌合され軸支している。 The photosensitive drum 1 has an axis O perpendicular to the paper surface, and the axis of the developing roller is also parallel to the axis O. A hinge pin 6 provided in a direction parallel to the axis O is a common shaft that connects the drum unit 5 and the developing unit 10 in common. The fitting portion 11 formed in the overlapping portion of the support portion 5a protruding from the drum unit 5 and the support portion 10a protruding from the developing unit 10 is inserted from the axial direction of the photosensitive drum 1, that is, from the longitudinal direction. 10a is commonly fitted and pivotally supported.

こうして、ドラムユニット５と現像ユニット１０とはヒンジピン６により一方が他方に対して旋回可能に連結されて全体としてプロセスカートリッジ６０を構成している。旋回の中心軸１４は感光体ドラム１と現像ロ-ラ７が設計上の配置位置から旋回により感光体ドラム１と現像ロ−ラ７間距離が遠ざかる方向の回動で両ユニットのフレ−ム外形が干渉しない位置に設定する。 Thus, the drum unit 5 and the developing unit 10 are connected to each other by the hinge pin 6 so as to be rotatable with respect to the other, thereby constituting the process cartridge 60 as a whole. The center axis 14 of the turning is a frame in which both the units are rotated by turning the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing roller 7 in a direction in which the distance between the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing roller 7 is away from the designed arrangement position. Set the position so that the outer shape does not interfere.

図２に示すように、感光体ドラム１はドラムユニット５の端面に取り付けられた軸受１２によりドラムユニット５内に保持され、かつ滑らかに回転することができる。また現像ロ−ラ７も同様に現像ユニット１０の端面に取り付けられた軸受１３により現像ユニット１０内に保持され、かつ滑らかに回転することができるため各ユニットの旋回動作時に感光体ドラム１、現像ロ−ラ７が落下したり、配置移動したりすることはない。 As shown in FIG. 2, the photosensitive drum 1 is held in the drum unit 5 by a bearing 12 attached to the end face of the drum unit 5 and can rotate smoothly. Similarly, the developing roller 7 is also held in the developing unit 10 by a bearing 13 attached to the end surface of the developing unit 10 and can rotate smoothly. The roller 7 does not fall or move.

図３、図４に示した姿勢Ｂの状態では、ドラムユニット１の上方は開放されており、感光体ドラム１の交換や、メンテナンスを容易に行なうことができる。同様に、現像ユニット１０の上方も開放されており、現像ローラ７をはじめ、現像剤搬送部８やトナー供給攪拌部９の交換や保守を容易に行なうことができる。 In the state of the posture B shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the upper portion of the drum unit 1 is open, so that the photosensitive drum 1 can be easily replaced and maintained. Similarly, the upper part of the developing unit 10 is also opened, and the replacement and maintenance of the developing roller 7, the developer transport unit 8 and the toner supply stirring unit 9 can be easily performed.

こうして、姿勢Ｂの状態で交換、保守などを行なった後、画像形成装置本体内にセットし作像する場合は、ヒンジピン６と中心にこれらユニットを相対的に回動させることにより、図１、図２に示すように感光体ドラム１と現像ローラ７とが対向近接するように、ドラムユニット５と現像ユニット１０とが接しているプロセスカートリッジ６０が閉じた状態、すなわち感光体ドラム１と現像ロ-ラ７およびその周辺部材が設計上の配置位置である姿勢Ａに確実に復元させることができし、必要があれば、画像形成装置本体外に取り出し部品交換のためプロセスカートリッジ６０が開いた状態、すなわち部品の交換作業が可能な旋回位置である感光体ドラム１と現像ロ-ラ７が大きく離れ開放された姿勢Ｂを復元することができる。 In this way, after performing replacement, maintenance, etc. in the state of posture B, when setting in the image forming apparatus main body and forming an image, by rotating these units relative to the hinge pin 6 as a center, FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, the process cartridge 60 in contact with the drum unit 5 and the developing unit 10 is closed so that the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing roller 7 face each other, that is, the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing roller. And the peripheral member 7 and its peripheral members can be reliably restored to the designed position A, and if necessary, the process cartridge 60 is opened outside the image forming apparatus main body for replacement of the parts, In other words, it is possible to restore the posture B in which the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing roller 7 which are in the swivel positions where the parts can be exchanged are largely separated and opened.

本例では、姿勢Ａのとき現像剤搬送部８とトナー供給攪拌部９とが横並びになり、その上方に現像ローラ７が位置する配置の現像ユニット１０の斜め上方にドラムユニット５が位置し、現像ローラ７の斜め上に感光体ドラム１が位置している。また、姿勢Ｂのときは図３、図４に示したように、図１、図２に示した姿勢Ａにおける現像ユニット１０の位置はそのまま維持して、ドラムユニット５を、ヒンジピン６を中心にして反時計回りの向きに９０度回転した姿勢である。 In this example, when the posture is A, the developer conveying unit 8 and the toner supply stirring unit 9 are side by side, and the drum unit 5 is positioned obliquely above the developing unit 10 in which the developing roller 7 is positioned above the developing unit 10. The photosensitive drum 1 is positioned obliquely above the roller 7. In the posture B, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the position of the developing unit 10 in the posture A shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is maintained as it is, and the drum unit 5 is centered on the hinge pin 6. The posture is rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise.

本例では、ドラムユニット５と現像ユニット１０とを開閉可能に連結する共通軸がヒンジピン６であるため、これらドラムユニット５および現像ユニット１０の何れかの任意のユニット側を感光体ドラム１の長手方向に移動することにより別々のユニットとして分離することも可能である。不測の分離を防止するため、ヒンジピン６には、感光体ドラム１の長手方向での移動を規制するストッパを設けるのがよい。 In this example, since the common shaft that connects the drum unit 5 and the developing unit 10 so as to be openable and closable is the hinge pin 6, any unit side of the drum unit 5 and the developing unit 10 is placed in the longitudinal direction of the photosensitive drum 1. It is also possible to separate them as separate units by moving. In order to prevent unintentional separation, the hinge pin 6 is preferably provided with a stopper for restricting the movement of the photosensitive drum 1 in the longitudinal direction.

このように、感光体ドラム１を含むドラムユニット５と現像ローラ７を含む現像ユニット１０とを共通軸であるヒンジピン１４により開閉可能に連結し、該共通軸によるこれらユニット間の結合を解除することなく、開状態、閉状態を復元可能にしたので、プロセスカートリッジ自体を分解することなく保守可能な状態に変位させ、かつ、復元可能である。 In this manner, the drum unit 5 including the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing unit 10 including the developing roller 7 are connected to each other by the hinge pin 14 that is a common shaft so as to be opened and closed, and the coupling between these units by the common shaft is not released. Since the open state and the closed state can be restored, the process cartridge itself can be displaced to a maintainable state without being disassembled, and can be restored.

感光体ドラム１はドラムユニット５を構成するフレ−ムに、現像ロ−ラ７は現像ユニット１０を構成するフレ−ムにそれぞれ軸受１２、１３を介して保持されており、またそれぞれのフレ−ムは感光体ドラムに平行な任意の軸に対して旋回可能に連結されているため、面板などの精密なフレ−ム連結部品がなくても旋回軌跡上の係止位置を決めるだけで感光体ドラムと現像ロ−ラの配置を再現でき、かつ部品交換などの作業時には感光体ドラムと現像ロ−ラは離れた位置に旋回移動ができるので作業が容易である。
そのため、簡単で部品数が少ない構成で部品の配置位置精度が良く、部品交換性も良好なプロセスカートリッジを提供できる。 The photosensitive drum 1 is held in a frame constituting the drum unit 5 and the developing roller 7 is held in a frame constituting the developing unit 10 via bearings 12 and 13, respectively. Is connected to an arbitrary axis parallel to the photosensitive drum so as to be able to turn, so that the photosensitive drum can be determined by simply determining the locking position on the turning locus even without a precise frame connecting part such as a face plate. The arrangement of the development roller and the development roller can be reproduced, and at the time of work such as replacement of parts, the photosensitive drum and the development roller can be pivoted to separate positions, so that the work is easy.
Therefore, it is possible to provide a process cartridge that has a simple configuration with a small number of parts, good placement position accuracy of parts, and good parts replacement.

［例２］
本例は前記例１の変形例であり、ドラムユニット５と現像ユニット１０とがヒンジピンで開閉可能に連結されているという基本的な構成は同じである。よって、構成上共通の部材については前記例と同じ符号で示す。図５は両ユニットの閉じ状態を示しており、図中の矢印６１は画像記録用シート状媒体の搬送方向を示している。図６は両ユニットを開状態を示している。 [Example 2]
This example is a modification of Example 1, and the basic configuration in which the drum unit 5 and the developing unit 10 are connected by a hinge pin so as to be opened and closed is the same. Therefore, members that are common in configuration are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the above example. FIG. 5 shows the closed state of both units, and an arrow 61 in the figure indicates the conveying direction of the sheet medium for image recording. FIG. 6 shows an open state of both units.

図６に示す姿勢Ｂの開状態から、感光体ドラム１と現像ロ-ラ７が設計上の配置位置となる姿勢Ａまでヒンジピン６の中心である中心軸１４を中心に旋回したとき、現像ユニット１０のフレ−ム上でドラムユニット５側に向いた面のシート状媒体搬送巾（図６に示す指定範囲巾β）の外側であって現像ロ−ラ７に干渉しない任意の位置に設けられた突起形状部２０が、ドラムユニット５のフレ−ム上であって現像ユニット１０側に向いた面のシート状媒体搬送巾βの外側であって感光体ドラム１に干渉しない位置に設けられた受け部２１に当接することにより感光体ドラム１と現像ローラ７とがぶつかる前に回動が阻止されかつその状態がドラムユニット５の自重によるモーメントで保持される状態となる。 When the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing roller 7 are rotated around the central axis 14 that is the center of the hinge pin 6 from the open state of the posture B shown in FIG. 10 is provided outside the sheet medium conveyance width (designated range width β shown in FIG. 6) on the surface facing the drum unit 5 on the frame 10 and at any position that does not interfere with the developing roller 7. A receiving portion provided at a position where the projection-shaped portion 20 is outside the sheet-like medium conveyance width β on the frame of the drum unit 5 and facing the developing unit 10 and does not interfere with the photosensitive drum 1. 21, the rotation is prevented before the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing roller 7 collide with each other, and the state is held by the moment due to the weight of the drum unit 5.

本例では、このように、ドラムユニット５と現像ユニット１０の間に突起形状部２０と受け部２１で構成された係止部を設けたので、部品交換作業などの際、ユニットの旋回により感光体ドラム１と現像ロ−ラ７が接近してもお互いが衝突することを回避することができる。受け部２１は突起形状２０部と嵌合する位置合わせ穴とすれば、姿勢復元性能が向上し、部品交換などによる感光体ドラム１の皮膜などへのキズや凹みを確実に防止することができる。 In this example, since the engaging portion composed of the projection-shaped portion 20 and the receiving portion 21 is provided between the drum unit 5 and the developing unit 10 as described above, the photosensitive member is rotated by rotating the unit during parts replacement work or the like. Even if the drum 1 and the developing roller 7 come close to each other, it is possible to avoid collision of each other. If the receiving part 21 is an alignment hole that fits into the protruding part 20 part, the posture restoration performance is improved, and scratches and dents on the film of the photosensitive drum 1 due to parts replacement or the like can be reliably prevented. .

感光体ドラム１と現像ロ−ラ７間の距離を規制する機構があるので、分解、組立時に干渉させてしまう可能性なくなり、感光体ドラム１は表面の皮膜にキズなどが付いたり、変形が生じると印字画質が劣化してしまうがそのおそれもなくなった。
なお、突起形状部２０と受け部２１の設置位置はドラムユニット側と現像ユニット側とで入れ替えて構成することができる。 Since there is a mechanism that regulates the distance between the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing roller 7, there is no possibility of interference during disassembly and assembly, and the surface of the photosensitive drum 1 is scratched or deformed. When this occurs, the print image quality deteriorates, but the risk is eliminated.
In addition, the installation positions of the protrusion-shaped portion 20 and the receiving portion 21 can be configured to be switched between the drum unit side and the developing unit side.

［例３］
本例は前記例１又は例２の変形例であり、ドラムユニット５と現像ユニット１０とがヒンジピンで開閉可能に連結されているという基本的な構成は同じである。よって、構成上共通の部材については前記例と同じ符号で示す。図７、図８共に、両ユニットの閉じ状態を示している。 [Example 3]
This example is a modification of Example 1 or Example 2, and the basic configuration in which the drum unit 5 and the developing unit 10 are connected to each other by a hinge pin so as to be opened and closed is the same. Therefore, members that are common in configuration are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the above example. 7 and 8 both show the closed state of both units.

図７において、現像ユニット１０のフレ−ム上で前記図６で説明したと同様のシート状媒体巾β外側の任意の位置にストッパ挿入用穴２３が設けてある。また、ドラムユニット５のフレ−ムの現像ユニット１０側に向いた面より出っ張った位置に概略フレ−ムの外側を向いた突起形状のストッパ２４が形成されている。 In FIG. 7, a stopper insertion hole 23 is provided on the frame of the developing unit 10 at an arbitrary position outside the sheet-like medium width β as described in FIG. In addition, a protrusion-shaped stopper 24 facing the outside of the frame is formed at a position protruding from the surface of the drum unit 5 facing the developing unit 10 side.

感光体ドラム１と現像ロ-ラ７が設計上の配置位置となる姿勢Ａまでヒンジピン６の中心軸１４を中心に旋回したとき、ストッパ１３がストッパ挿入用穴２４に挿入され回動を係止する。このとき穴とストッパ１３に嵌め合いによる隙間が無ければ、両ユニットは、お互いに固定した状態を保持することができる。さらにこのストッパ２３には感光体ドラム１の長手方向の勘合を追加することによりこの方向の移動を規制する機能を容易に追加することができる。また、ストッパ２４はフレ−ムの内部側に若干たわむような剛性とすることにより、回動により滑らかにストッパ挿入用穴２３に挿入させることができる。 When the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing roller 7 are pivoted about the central axis 14 of the hinge pin 6 to the posture A at which the designed arrangement position is set, the stopper 13 is inserted into the stopper insertion hole 24 to lock the rotation. To do. At this time, if there is no gap between the hole and the stopper 13 due to the fitting, both units can be held in a fixed state. Furthermore, a function for regulating movement in this direction can be easily added to the stopper 23 by adding a fitting in the longitudinal direction of the photosensitive drum 1. Further, the stopper 24 is rigid enough to bend toward the inner side of the frame, so that it can be smoothly inserted into the stopper insertion hole 23 by turning.

本例では、図７、図８に示すように、感光体ドラム１と現像ローラ７とが接近する姿勢Ａにおいて、現像ユニット１０側に設けられたストッパ挿入用穴２３に、ドラムユニット側に設けた突起形状のストッパ２４が嵌合状に挿入されて、感光体ドラム１と現像ローラ７同士が干渉しない任意の距離を確保するようにしたものである。ストッパ挿入穴の設置位置とこれに挿入される突起形状のストッパの設置位置とは、ドラムユニット側と現像ユニット側とで入れ替えて構成することができる。また、前記例２の構成と併用することも可能である。 In this example, as shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, in the posture A where the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing roller 7 approach each other, the stopper insertion hole 23 provided on the developing unit 10 side is provided on the drum unit side. A protrusion-shaped stopper 24 is inserted in a fitting manner so as to ensure an arbitrary distance at which the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing roller 7 do not interfere with each other. The installation position of the stopper insertion hole and the installation position of the protrusion-shaped stopper inserted into the stopper insertion hole can be interchanged between the drum unit side and the development unit side. Further, it can be used in combination with the configuration of Example 2.

本例では、両ユニットの旋回により感光体ドラム１と現像ロ−ラ７が接近し設計上の配置位置になった際、それぞれのユニットに設けられた突起形状のストッパが挿入用穴に嵌合し、さらに、突起形状の基端部が平坦な板面状をなすことで、突起形状部の挿入度合いを規制するストッパ機能を果たすことで、両ユニットの閉じ位置を保持することができ、かつワンタッチで解除できるので、ネジなどの締結部品などを要せずに、閉じ状態の保持とその解除が可能である。
本例では、ドラムユニット５と現像ユニット１０の回動位置を固定するためにネジなどの締結部品やロック機構など不要であり、組立作業性が向上した。 In this example, when the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing roller 7 come close to each other by the turning of both units and the designed arrangement position is reached, the protrusion-shaped stopper provided in each unit is fitted into the insertion hole. Furthermore, the closed end of both units can be held by fulfilling a stopper function that regulates the degree of insertion of the protrusion-shaped portion by making the base end of the protrusion shape a flat plate surface, and Since it can be released with a single touch, it is possible to hold and release the closed state without the need for fastening parts such as screws.
In this example, a fastening part such as a screw and a lock mechanism are not required to fix the rotation position of the drum unit 5 and the developing unit 10, and the assembly workability is improved.

［例４］
本例は、前記例３の変形例であり、前記例３に準じて図９に示すように、感光体ドラム１と現像ローラ７とが接近する姿勢Ａにおいて、現像ユニット１０側に設けられたストッパ挿入用穴２３ａに、ドラムユニット側に設けた突起形状のストッパ２４ａが嵌合状に挿入されて、感光体ドラム１と現像ローラ７同士が干渉しない任意の距離を確保するようにしたものである。 [Example 4]
This example is a modification of Example 3, and is provided on the developing unit 10 side in a posture A in which the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing roller 7 approach as shown in FIG. 9 according to Example 3. A protrusion-shaped stopper 24a provided on the drum unit side is inserted into the stopper insertion hole 23a in a fitting manner so as to secure an arbitrary distance at which the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing roller 7 do not interfere with each other. .

姿勢Ｂを示した図１０で明らかなように、ストッパ２４ａの形状は感光体ドラム１と現像ローラ７が遠ざかる方向を係止する返り爪形状であり、姿勢Ａでストッパ挿入用穴２３ａに挿入される。また、両ユニットの向かい合う面の任意の位置には感光体ドラム１と現像ロ−ラ７とが遠ざかる方向に付勢力を生じるように伸長性のばね２５または、図示されていないスポンジシ−ルなどによる付勢手段が設置され、姿勢Ａの状態で規定の付勢力が得られるように設計されている。
図１０に示すように、ストッパ２４ａ、ストッパ挿入用穴２３ａ、ばね２５、ばね受け凹部はシート状媒体搬送幅βの領域外に設けられている。 As is apparent from FIG. 10 showing the posture B, the shape of the stopper 24a is a return claw shape that locks the direction in which the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing roller 7 move away, and is inserted into the stopper insertion hole 23a in the posture A. The Further, an extensible spring 25 or a sponge seal (not shown) or the like is used to generate a biasing force in a direction in which the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing roller 7 move away at an arbitrary position on the opposing surfaces of both units. The urging means is installed and designed to obtain a prescribed urging force in the posture A state.
As shown in FIG. 10, the stopper 24a, the stopper insertion hole 23a, the spring 25, and the spring receiving recess are provided outside the area of the sheet-like medium conveyance width β.

上記付勢手段による付勢力がストッパ２４ａの返り爪部をストッパ挿入穴２３ａの対する嵌合面に押し当てるため、両ユニットは姿勢Ａの位置を保持することができる。また、例３におけると同様に、ストッパ２４はフレ−ムの内部側に若干たわむような剛性とすることにより、回動により滑らかにストッパ挿入穴２３ａに挿入させることができる。 Since the urging force by the urging means presses the return claw portion of the stopper 24a against the fitting surface of the stopper insertion hole 23a, both units can maintain the position of the posture A. Further, as in Example 3, the stopper 24 can be smoothly inserted into the stopper insertion hole 23a by turning by making the stopper 24 rigid enough to bend toward the inner side of the frame.

本例では、ストッパ２４ａの突起形状が返り爪形状であり、かつ両ユニットの向かい合う面の任意の位置には感光体ドラム１と現像ロ−ラ７が遠ざかる方向に付勢力を生じるようにばね２５またはスポンジなどの付勢手段を配置しているので、両ユニットの旋回により感光体ドラム１と現像ロ−ラ７が接近し設計上の配置位置になった際には、返り爪部はストッパ挿入穴の面に常時付勢されフレームは位置決めされるので、ネジなどの締結部品がなくても安定して感光体ドラムと現像ロ−ラが接近し設計上の配置位置を保持することができる。
前記例３では、回動を固定するためにネジなどの締結部品かロック機構は不要であるが、感光体ドラム１と現像ロ−ラ７間の距離を高精度で保持するためには、ドラムユニット５と現像ユニット１０の回動位置を固定するための突起形状と穴との嵌め合い隙間がないようにしなければならないため部品加工が難しいが、本例では簡単な部品加工により、現像ギャップなど、感光体ドラムと現像ローラの関係位置を設定することができる。 In this example, the protrusion shape of the stopper 24a is a return claw shape, and a spring 25 is generated at an arbitrary position on the facing surface of both units so that a biasing force is generated in a direction in which the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing roller 7 move away from each other. Alternatively, since the biasing means such as sponge is arranged, when the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing roller 7 come close to each other by the turning of both units and the designed arrangement position is reached, the return claw portion is inserted with a stopper. Since the frame is positioned by being constantly urged against the surface of the hole, the photosensitive drum and the developing roller can be brought close to each other and the designed arrangement position can be maintained even without a fastening part such as a screw.
In the third example, a fastening part such as a screw or a lock mechanism is not required to fix the rotation. However, in order to hold the distance between the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing roller 7 with high accuracy, a drum unit is used. 5 is difficult to process parts because there must be no gap between the projection shape and the hole to fix the rotation position of the developing unit 10 and the hole, but in this example, by simple parts processing, The relational position between the photosensitive drum and the developing roller can be set.

［例５］
本例はこれまで説明した例１〜例４におけるプロセスカートリッジに対して適用可能である。図１１はＡ姿勢つまり所定の閉じ状態にあるプロセスカートリッジを、図１２は姿勢Ｂつまり所定の開状態にあるプロセスカートリッジをそれぞれ示している。 [Example 5]
This example is applicable to the process cartridges in Examples 1 to 4 described so far. FIG. 11 shows the process cartridge in the A posture, that is, a predetermined closed state, and FIG. 12 shows the process cartridge in the posture B, that is, in a predetermined open state.

これまで説明したように、ドラムユニット５のフレ−ム上に感光体ドラム１に平行な方向に設けられたヒンジピン６が現像ユニット１０上に設けられた嵌合穴１１に感光体ドラム１の長手方向より差し込まれ旋回可能に連結されて形成されたプロセスカ−トリッジ６０は、画像形成装置本体内に装着されているときには図１１に示すように姿勢Ａである。また、部品交換のため画像形成装置本体外に取り出した際は、図１２に示すように、部品の交換作業を行いやすい旋回位置である両ユニットが開いた姿勢Ｂとなる。 As described above, the hinge pin 6 provided in the direction parallel to the photosensitive drum 1 on the frame of the drum unit 5 is inserted into the fitting hole 11 provided on the developing unit 10 in the longitudinal direction of the photosensitive drum 1. The process cartridge 60 formed so as to be inserted and pivotably connected is in the posture A as shown in FIG. 11 when mounted in the main body of the image forming apparatus. Further, when the component is taken out of the image forming apparatus main body for component replacement, as shown in FIG.

図１２に示すように、感光体ドラム１と現像ロ-ラ７が概略最も離れた状態である姿勢Ｂになったとき、各ユニットのフレーム外形が平面αに対して面合わせとなるような形状部分をもっている。つまり、姿勢Ｂにおいて、ドラムユニット５と現像ユニット１０とは、共通の平面α上に同時に接して安定した状態を保ち得る平坦面をそれぞれが有している。その平坦面とは、本例では、ドラムユニット５に関しては、図１１に示す姿勢Ａのもとで鉛直面を構成している平坦面６３であり、現像ユニット１０に関しては図１１に示す姿勢Ａのもとで平坦面６３に対して９０度の角度をなし水平面と平行な平坦面６４である。
これら平坦面６３と平坦面６４とは、姿勢Ｂのもとで、同一の水平面に共通に接して重力を利用して安定した姿勢を保てる形状である。 As shown in FIG. 12, when the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing roller 7 are in the posture B, which is approximately the most distant, the shape of the frame shape of each unit is flush with the plane α. Have a part. That is, in the posture B, the drum unit 5 and the developing unit 10 each have a flat surface that can be in contact with the common plane α at the same time and can maintain a stable state. In this example, the flat surface is a flat surface 63 that forms a vertical surface with respect to the drum unit 5 under the posture A shown in FIG. 11, and the developing unit 10 has a posture A shown in FIG. Originally, the flat surface 64 forms an angle of 90 degrees with respect to the flat surface 63 and is parallel to the horizontal plane.
The flat surface 63 and the flat surface 64 have a shape that can be in common contact with the same horizontal plane and maintain a stable posture using gravity under the posture B.

このように、姿勢Ｂのもとで、平坦面６３と平坦面６４が平面α上に共通に接した状態となり、プロセスカートリッジ６０は、姿勢Ｂで形状的に平面α上で安定して接地するため、部品の交換作業が容易に行なうことができる。 As described above, the flat surface 63 and the flat surface 64 are in common contact with the plane α under the posture B, and the process cartridge 60 is stably grounded in the posture B in shape on the plane α. Therefore, the part replacement work can be easily performed.

変形例を図１３、図１４により説明する。本例はこれまでの例におけるドラムユニット５や現像ユニット１０とは構成部品のレイアウトが違うためフレ−ムの外形も異なっている。本例のプロセスカートリッジ７０では、姿勢Ａを図１３、姿勢Ｂを図１４にそれぞれ示すように、直方体状のドラムユニット５Ａと直方体状の現像ユニット１０Ａからなる。他の構成部材についは機能的に同じものについては同じ符号を付してある。 A modification will be described with reference to FIGS. This example is different from the drum unit 5 and the developing unit 10 in the previous examples in terms of the layout of the component parts, so the outer shape of the frame is also different. The process cartridge 70 of this example comprises a rectangular parallelepiped drum unit 5A and a rectangular parallelepiped developing unit 10A as shown in FIG. 13 for posture A and FIG. 14 for posture B, respectively. Other structural members that are functionally the same are denoted by the same reference numerals.

このプロセスカートリッジ７０では、図１３に示すように姿勢Ａでは現像ユニット１０Ａ上にドラムユニット５Ａが重畳的に位置し、姿勢Ｂでは現像ユニット１０Ａはそのままでドラムユニット５Ａがヒンジピン６を軸として左に９０度旋回している。
図１４に示すように、感光体ドラム１と現像ロ-ラ７が概略最も離れた状態である姿勢Ｂになったとき、各ユニットのフレーム外形が平面αに対して面合わせとなるような形状部分をもっている。つまり、姿勢Ｂにおいて、ドラムユニット５Ａと現像ユニット１０Ａとは、共通の平面α上に同時に接して安定した状態を保ち得る平坦面をそれぞれが有している。その平坦面とは、本例では、ドラムユニット５に関しては、図１３に示す姿勢Ａのもとで鉛直面を構成している平坦面６３ａであり、現像ユニット１０に関しては図１４に示す姿勢Ｂのもとで平坦面６３ａに対して９０度の角度をなし水平面と平行な平坦面６４ａである。
これら平坦面６３ａと平坦面６４ａとは、姿勢Ｂのもとで、同一の水平面に共通に接して重力を利用して安定した姿勢を保てる形状である。 In this process cartridge 70, as shown in FIG. 13, in the posture A, the drum unit 5A is superimposed on the developing unit 10A, and in the posture B, the developing unit 10A remains as it is and the drum unit 5A is 90 degrees to the left about the hinge pin 6 as an axis. It is turning.
As shown in FIG. 14, when the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing roller 7 are in the posture B, which is approximately the farthest away, the shape of the frame shape of each unit is flush with the plane α. Have a part. In other words, in the posture B, the drum unit 5A and the developing unit 10A each have a flat surface that can be in contact with the common plane α at the same time and can maintain a stable state. In this example, the flat surface is a flat surface 63a that forms a vertical surface with respect to the drum unit 5 under the posture A shown in FIG. 13, and the developing unit 10 has a posture B shown in FIG. Originally, the flat surface 64a forms an angle of 90 degrees with respect to the flat surface 63a and is parallel to the horizontal plane.
The flat surface 63a and the flat surface 64a have a shape that can be in common contact with the same horizontal plane and maintain a stable posture using gravity under the posture B.

本例では、両ユニットを旋回させて部品交換する位置にユニットが回動した際、作業台などの平面部に両ユニットの外形が安定して接地するので、プロセスカートリッジが大きく動くことなく容易に部品交換作業をおこなうことができる。このように、サ−ビスマン等が客先で分解、組立作業をする際など、床やテ−ブル上での作業性や省スペ−スで作業できるようなった。 In this example, when both units are turned to the position where both parts are turned and the parts are replaced, the outer shape of both units is stably grounded to a flat surface such as a workbench, so that the process cartridge can be easily moved without significant movement. Parts replacement work can be performed. In this way, when a serviceman or the like disassembles and assembles at the customer's site, work can be performed on the floor or table with reduced workability and space.

［例６］
図１５、図１６により説明する。本例のプロセスカートリッジ８０は、これまでの例と同じように、ドラムユニット５のフレ−ム上に感光体ドラム１に平行な方向に設けられたヒンジピン６が現像ユニット１０上に設けられた嵌合穴１１に、感光体ドラム１の長手方向より差し込まれ、両ユニットを旋回可能に連結している。 [Example 6]
This will be described with reference to FIGS. In the process cartridge 80 of this example, the hinge pin 6 provided in the direction parallel to the photosensitive drum 1 is provided on the developing unit 10 on the frame of the drum unit 5 as in the previous examples. The unit 11 is inserted into the hole 11 from the longitudinal direction of the photosensitive drum 1 so that both units can be pivoted.

このようなプロセスカートリッジ８０において、現像ユニット１０内にある現像ロ−ラ部のみが単独のユニット３０として感光体ドラム１に平行な方向に設けられたヒンジピン３1を有しており、現像ユニット１０上に設けられた嵌合穴３２に長手方向より差し込まれ旋回可能に連結されて形成される。 In such a process cartridge 80, only the developing roller portion in the developing unit 10 has a hinge pin 3 1 provided in a direction parallel to the photosensitive drum 1 as a single unit 30. It is formed by being inserted into a fitting hole 32 provided in the longitudinal direction from the longitudinal direction so as to be pivotable.

かかる構成により、図１５に示した閉じ状態のもとで、これまでの例に準じて、ヒンジピン６を軸として旋回させて現像ユニット１０に対してドラムユニット５を開き、これにより現像ロ−ラ部を含むユニット３０を露出させてから、ヒンジピン３１を軸としてユニット３０を旋回させることにより現像ユニット１０上に現像剤搬送部８、トナー供給攪拌部９など現像剤搬送部を露出させることができるので剤の交換や補給が可能となる。また、ユニット３０上において現像ローラ７も露出しているので保守、交換作業が容易である。本例においても、部品交換の作業をおこなう姿勢Ｂのとき図１６に示されるように、ユニット３０は平面αに対して安定して接地するような外形部をもつようにすることで作業性が向上する。 With this configuration, in the closed state shown in FIG. 15, the drum unit 5 is opened with respect to the developing unit 10 by turning the hinge pin 6 as an axis in accordance with the previous examples, whereby the developing roller section. After the unit 30 including the toner is exposed, the developer conveying unit such as the developer conveying unit 8 and the toner supply stirring unit 9 can be exposed on the developing unit 10 by turning the unit 30 around the hinge pin 31 as an axis. It is possible to replace and replenish the agent. Further, since the developing roller 7 is also exposed on the unit 30, maintenance and replacement work is easy. Also in this example, as shown in FIG. 16 in the posture B for performing the part replacement work, the unit 30 has workability by having an outer shape portion that stably contacts the plane α. improves.

［例７］
これまで説明した各例におけるプロセスカートリッジ６０、７０、８０などは、図１７に示すように画像形成装置本体に装着されて画像形成装置を構成する。
図１７において、画像形成装置本体１００の最上部には画像読取装置３７０が位置し、その下方に向かい、胴内排紙部３６０が位置し、また、プロセスカートリッジ６０（７０、８０）を中心とした画像形成部、シート状媒体Ｓを収納する給紙トレイを中心とした給紙部３６１などが順次配置されている。 [Example 7]
The process cartridges 60, 70, 80, etc. in the examples described so far are mounted on the main body of the image forming apparatus as shown in FIG. 17 to constitute the image forming apparatus.
In FIG. 17, an image reading device 370 is positioned at the uppermost portion of the image forming apparatus main body 100, an in-body discharge section 360 is positioned downward, and the process cartridge 60 (70, 80) is the center. The image forming unit, the sheet feeding unit 361 centering on the sheet feeding tray that stores the sheet-like medium S, and the like are sequentially arranged.

プロセスカートリッジ６０（７０、８０）は画像形成装置本体１００に対して着脱自在である。プロセスカートリッジ６０（７０、８０）の下方には光書込み装置２９０が位置している。帯電器３で帯電された感光体ドラム１の表面は光書込み装置２９０からの露光光により、シート状媒体に適合する画像が形成されるように露光領域が定められて露光され、静電潜像が担持される。 The process cartridge 60 (70, 80) is detachable from the image forming apparatus main body 100. An optical writing device 290 is located below the process cartridge 60 (70, 80). The surface of the photosensitive drum 1 charged by the charger 3 is exposed by exposure light from the optical writing device 290 so that an exposure area is determined so that an image suitable for the sheet-like medium is formed, and an electrostatic latent image is formed. Is carried.

この静電潜像は現像ローラ７部を通過する間にトナーで可視像化され、こうして担持されたトナー画像は、給紙部３６１から破線で示す搬送経路を辿って送られるシート状媒体Ｓに転写される。
転写を終えたシート状媒体Ｓは搬送コロの回転により搬送経路を辿り、定着装置３３０を通る間に定着される。定着装置３３０を出たシート状媒体は、途中で図示しない分岐手段により進路が分かれる。一つの進路は反転しつつ一対の排出コロ３５０から胴内排紙部３６０に排出される経路であり、もう一つの進路は、一対の排出コロ３８０を経て後処理装置に至る経路である。 The electrostatic latent image is visualized with toner while passing through the developing roller 7, and the toner image thus carried is sent from the paper supply unit 361 along the conveyance path indicated by the broken line. Is transcribed.
After the transfer, the sheet-like medium S follows the conveyance path by the rotation of the conveyance roller and is fixed while passing through the fixing device 330. The path of the sheet-like medium exiting the fixing device 330 is divided on the way by branching means (not shown). One path is a path that is reversed and discharged from the pair of discharge rollers 350 to the in-body discharge unit 360, and the other path is a path that passes through the pair of discharge rollers 380 and reaches the post-processing device.

このようい、感光体ドラム１と現像ローラ７を含むプロセスカートリッジ６０（７０、８０）を着脱自在とし、感光体ドラム１に形成された静電潜像を現像ローラ７を用いてトナーを含む現像剤で可視像化し、この可視像をシート状媒体Ｓに転写、定着して画像を得る画像形成装置において、本発明にかかるプロセスカートリッジ６０（７０、８０）を用いることにより、当該プロセスカートリッジ構成部品の保守点検が容易となる。 In this way, the process cartridge 60 (70, 80) including the photosensitive drum 1 and the developing roller 7 is detachable, and the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 1 is developed using the developing roller 7 with toner. By using the process cartridge 60 (70, 80) according to the present invention in an image forming apparatus that visualizes an image with an agent and obtains an image by transferring and fixing the visible image on the sheet-like medium S, the process cartridge Maintenance and inspection of component parts becomes easy.

閉状態のプロセスカートリッジの正面図である。It is a front view of a process cartridge in a closed state. 閉状態のプロセスカートリッジの斜視図である。It is a perspective view of a process cartridge in a closed state. 開状態のプロセスカートリッジの正面図である。It is a front view of the process cartridge in an open state. 開状態のプロセスカートリッジの斜視図である。It is a perspective view of the process cartridge of an open state. 閉状態のプロセスカートリッジの正面図である。It is a front view of a process cartridge in a closed state. 開状態のプロセスカートリッジの斜視図である。It is a perspective view of the process cartridge of an open state. 閉状態のプロセスカートリッジの正面図である。It is a front view of a process cartridge in a closed state. 閉状態のプロセスカートリッジの斜視図である。It is a perspective view of a process cartridge in a closed state. 閉状態のプロセスカートリッジの正面図である。It is a front view of a process cartridge in a closed state. 開状態のプロセスカートリッジの斜視図である。It is a perspective view of the process cartridge of an open state. 閉状態のプロセスカートリッジの正面図である。It is a front view of a process cartridge in a closed state. 開状態のプロセスカートリッジの正面図である。It is a front view of the process cartridge in an open state. 閉状態のプロセスカートリッジの正面図である。It is a front view of a process cartridge in a closed state. 開状態のプロセスカートリッジの正面図である。It is a front view of the process cartridge in an open state. 閉状態のプロセスカートリッジの正面図である。It is a front view of a process cartridge in a closed state. 開状態のプロセスカートリッジの正面図である。It is a front view of the process cartridge in an open state. 画像形成装置の概略構成図である。1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

１感光体ドラム（像担持体）
５第１ユニット（ドラムユニット）
６、３１ヒンジピン（共通軸）
７現像ローラ（現像剤担持体）
１０第２ユニット（現像ユニット）
６０、７０、８０プロセスカートリッジ
1 Photosensitive drum (image carrier)
5 First unit (drum unit)
6, 31 Hinge pin (common shaft)
7 Development roller (developer carrier)
10 Second unit (development unit)
60, 70, 80 Process cartridge

Claims

A first unit for holding the means for smoothly rotating the image bearing member therein, smoothly by rotating it means mutually pivotally common axis and a second unit for holding a developer carrying member therein as a common pivot axis is connected, without breaking the bond between these units by said common axis, an said image bearing member and said developer carrying the process cartridge distance that is adjustable with body,
The first unit and the second unit are rotated around the common pivot axis, and either one of the unit side or both units near the position where the image carrier and the developer carrier are closest to each other. The protrusion shape provided above abuts the counterpart unit to secure an arbitrary distance that does not cause interference between the image carrier and the developer carrier, and to restrict rotation.
The first unit and the second unit rotate about the common pivot axis, and a stopper is provided on either side of the unit near the position where the image carrier and the developer carrier are close to each other. By inserting a protrusion-shaped stopper formed so that the rotation to the other unit side is locked in the hole, an arbitrary distance at which the image carrier and the developer carrier do not interfere with each other can be obtained. Locking and holding the rotation at the secured position,
The stopper is provided on either side of the both units, and has a generally return claw shape, and rotates in a direction in which the distance between the image carrier and the developer carrier is increased. The image carrier and the developer can be regulated and have a biasing means for generating a biasing force in a direction in which the distance between the image carrier and the developer carrier is increased between the two units. It is possible to lock and hold the rotation at a position that secures an arbitrary distance where the carriers do not interfere with each other,
When one or both of the first unit and the second unit are rotated, the outer shape of each frame body is in a posture in which the image carrier and the developer carrier are pivoted to the positions that are most separated from each other. A process cartridge having a shape capable of maintaining a stable posture by utilizing gravity with respect to an arbitrary plane .

The first unit that holds the image carrier inside by means that can rotate smoothly and the second unit that holds the developer carrier inside by means that can rotate smoothly can rotate around each other with a common axis as a common rotation axis. A process cartridge that is connected and capable of adjusting the distance between the image carrier and the developer carrier without releasing the coupling between the units by the common shaft,
The first unit and the second unit are rotated around the common pivot axis, and either one of the unit side or both units near the position where the image carrier and the developer carrier are closest to each other. The protrusion shape provided above abuts the counterpart unit to secure an arbitrary distance that does not cause interference between the image carrier and the developer carrier, and to restrict rotation.
The first unit and the second unit rotate about the common pivot axis, and a stopper is provided on either side of the unit near the position where the image carrier and the developer carrier are close to each other. By inserting a protrusion-shaped stopper formed so that the rotation to the other unit side is locked in the hole, an arbitrary distance at which the image carrier and the developer carrier do not interfere with each other can be obtained. Locking and holding the rotation at the secured position,
The stopper is provided on either side of the both units, and has a generally return claw shape, and rotates in a direction in which the distance between the image carrier and the developer carrier is increased. The image carrier and the developer can be regulated and have a biasing means for generating a biasing force in a direction in which the distance between the image carrier and the developer carrier is increased between the two units. It is possible to lock and hold the rotation at a position that secures an arbitrary distance where the carriers do not interfere with each other,
When one or both of the first unit and the second unit are rotated, the outer shape of each frame body is in a posture in which the image carrier and the developer carrier are pivoted to the positions that are most separated from each other. For any plane, it has a shape that can maintain a stable posture using gravity,
Wherein the same as that of the first unit and the second unit, the process characterized by arrangement der Rukoto linked pivotably about a common axis as a developer bearing member unit is a single unit in the second unit cartridge.

A process cartridge including an image carrier and a developer carrier is made detachable, and the electrostatic latent image formed on the image carrier is visualized with a developer containing toner using the developer carrier. An image forming apparatus for obtaining an image by transferring and fixing a visible image onto a sheet-like medium, comprising the process cartridge described below as the process cartridge.
The first unit that holds the image carrier inside by means that can rotate smoothly and the second unit that holds the developer carrier inside by means that can rotate smoothly can rotate around each other with a common axis as a common rotation axis. A process cartridge that is connected and capable of adjusting the distance between the image carrier and the developer carrier without releasing the coupling between the units by the common shaft,
The first unit and the second unit are rotated about the common pivot axis, and either one of the unit side or both units in the vicinity of a position where the image carrier and the developer carrier are closest to each other. The protrusion shape provided on the upper surface is in contact with the counterpart unit to secure an arbitrary distance that does not cause interference between the image carrier and the developer carrier, thereby restricting rotation.
The first unit and the second unit is rotated about the common pivot axis, stopper the image bearing member and said developer carrying member is provided on said one of the units side near the position of proximity the Rukoto stopper formed protrusion shaped as rotation of the insertion hole to the other of the unit side is engaged is inserted, any distance which the developer carrier together with the image bearing member does not interfere locking the pivot position ensuring, to the holding,
The stopper is provided on either side of the both units, and has a generally return claw shape, and rotates in a direction in which the distance between the image carrier and the developer carrier is increased. The image carrier and the developer can be regulated and have a biasing means for generating a biasing force in a direction in which the distance between the image carrier and the developer carrier is increased between the two units. It is possible to lock and hold the rotation at a position that secures an arbitrary distance where the carriers do not interfere with each other,
When one or both of the first unit and the second unit are rotated, the outer shape of each frame body is in a posture in which the image carrier and the developer carrier are pivoted to the positions that are most separated from each other. For any plane, it has a shape that can maintain a stable posture using gravity,
Similarly to the configurations of the first unit and the second unit, a process cartridge having a configuration in which the developer carrying member in the second unit is connected as a single unit so as to be rotatable about a common axis.