Electrophotographic image forming apparatus, developing apparatus, and coupling member.
Abstract
And an angular disengagement position which is taken so that the coupling member disengages from the drive shaft and wherein the coupling member is tilted away from the angular position of rotational force transmission in a direction opposite the angular position of Pre-gear; Wherein in response to a movement of the developing device, the coupling member is moved from the pre-gear angular position to the angular position of rotational force transmission to be opposite the drive shaft, and wherein when the movable member Makes a further movement in the same direction, the coupling member is disengaged from the drive shaft by movement of the angular position of rotational force transmission to the angular position of disengagement.

Term
2.8 yearsleft in the term
Expires 29 June 2029.
- Priority
- Filed
- Granted
- Today
- Expires
38 claims: 10 independent, 28 dependent
- 1Un cartucho de revelado que comprende:una estructura;un rodillo de revelado que tiene un eje Ll, el rodillo de revelado siendo apoyado de forma giratoria en la estructura para permitir rotación alrededor del eje Ll;y un miembro de acoplamiento que tiene un eje L2, el miembro de acoplamiento teniendo (i) una porción de impulsión para transmitir una fuerza rotacional al rodillo de revelado, (ii) una porción de impulsión para recibir la fuerza rotacional, y (iii) una porción de conexión que conecta la porción de impulsión y la porción accionada, en donde el miembro de acoplamiento es movible hacia una primera posición en la cual el eje L2 del miembro de acoplamiento está sustancialmente paralelo a y desplazado desde el eje Ll del rodillo de revelado desde una segunda posición en la cual el eje L2 del miembro de acoplamiento está inclinado con respecto al eje L2 del miembro de acoplamiento cuando el miembro de acoplamiento está en la primera posición, y es movible desde la primera posición hacia una tercera posición en la cual el eje L2 del miembro de acoplamiento está inclinado con respecto al eje L2 del miembro de acoplamiento cuando el miembro de acoplamiento está en la primera posición en una dirección opuesta con respecto a la segunda posición;en donde el ángulo máximo de inclinación del eje L2 del miembro de acoplamiento con 188 respecto al eje Ll del rodillo de revelado está limitado'por' el contacto entre el miembro de acoplamiento y la estructura.
- 2El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 1, que adicionalmente comprende una porción de contacto que se fija a la estructura, en donde el ángulo máximo de inclinación del miembro de acoplamiento está limitado por el contacto entre el miembro de acoplamiento y la porción de contacto fija.
- 3El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 1, en donde la estructura comprende un miembro de soporte que soporta rotativamente el rodillo de revelado.
- 4El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 1, en donde la estructura comprende una porción guía capaz de guiar al miembro de acoplamiento hacia la segunda posición.
- 5El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 1, en donde la porción de impulsión comprende una superficie que está sustancialmente perpendicular al eje L2 del miembro de acoplamiento, y dos proyecciones que se extienden desde la superficie a posiciones diametralmente opuestas.
- 6El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 5, en donde la superficie tiene una abertura la cual se abre en una dirección que se aleja de la porción de impulsión. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con de la 189 IMP INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA PROPIEDAD INDUSTRIAL reivindicación 6, en donde cada proyección incluye una superficie al menos una porción de la cual sobre sale una porción de la porción accionada.
- 78. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 1, que adicionalmente comprende:un primer engrane conectado al rodillo de revelado;y un segundo engrane conectado al miembro de acoplamiento y en engranaje con el primer engrane.
- 89. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 8, en donde el segundo engrane está conectado al miembro de acoplamiento de manera que el miembro de acoplamiento puede rotar parcialmente alrededor del eje L2 del miembro de acoplamiento sin trasmitir una fuerza al segundo engrane.
- 910. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 9, en donde el segundo engrane tiene una porción con abertura, y al menos parte de la porción de impulsión del miembro de acoplamiento está en la porción con abertura del segundo engrane.
- 1011. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 10, en donde la porción de impulsión del miembro de acoplamiento está soportada por la porción con abertura.
- 1112. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la 190 X XwX X Je. INSTITUTO MEXICANO de la propiedad INDUSTRIAL reivindicación 11, en donde la porción de impulsión del miembro de acoplamiento sustancialmente comprende una forma esférica.
- 1213. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la 5 reivindicación 12, en donde la porción de conexión incluye un eje a lo largo del eje L2 del miembro de acoplamiento.
- 1314. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 1, que adicionalmente comprende un elemento de empuj e que empuj a al miembro de acoplamiento a la segunda 10 posición.
- 1415. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 14, en donde el elemento de empuje es un resorte de torsión que contacta la porción de conexión del miembro de acoplamiento. 15
- 1516. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 1, en donde el miembro de acoplamiento puede ser inclinado en una dirección relativa a la primera posición.
- 1617. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la 20 reivindicación 4, en donde el miembro de acoplamiento está hecho de un material de resina.
- 1718. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 17, en donde el material de resina es un poliacetal.
- 1819. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la 191 INSTITUTO MEXICANO reivindicación 1, en donde el miembro de acogO^g^Üíto* hecho de un material metálico.
- 1920. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 5, en donde cada proyección incluye una 5 superficie al menos una porción de la cual sobresale de la superficie de la porción de impulsión.
- 2021. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 2, en donde la estructura comprende un miembro de eje soportando rotativamente al rodillo de revelado. 10
- 2122. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 2, en donde la estructura comprende una porción guía capaz de guiar al miembro de acoplamiento hacia la segunda posición.
- 2223. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la 15 reivindicación 2, en donde la porción de impulsión comprende una superficie que está sustancialmente perpendicular al eje L2 del miembro de acoplamiento, y dos proyecciones que se extienden desde la superficie a posiciones diametralmente opuestas. 20
- 2324. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 23, en donde la superficie tiene una abertura la cual se abre en una dirección que se aleja de la porción de impulsión.
- 2425. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la 25 reivindicación 23, en donde cada proyección incluye una 192 INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA PROPIEDAD . superficie al menos una porción de la cual sobresafe'^de una porción de la porción accionada.
- 2526. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 2, que adicionalmente comprende un primer 5 engrane conectado al rodillo de revelado;y un segundo engrane conectado al miembro de acoplamiento y en engranaje con el primer engrane.
- 2627. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 26, en donde el segundo engrane está conectado 10 al miembro de acoplamiento de manera tal que el miembro de acoplamiento puede rotar parcialmente alrededor del eje L2 del miembro de acoplamiento sin transmitir una fuerza al segundo engrane.
- 2728. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la 15 reivindicación 27, en donde el segundo engrane tiene una porción con abertura, y al menos parte de la porción de impulsión del miembro de acoplamiento está en la porción con abertura del segundo engrane.
- 2829. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la 20 reivindicación 28, en donde al menos la parte de la porción de impulsión del miembro de acoplamiento está soportada por la porción con abertura.
- 2930. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 29, en donde la porción de impulsión del 25 miembro de acoplamiento comprende sustancialmente una forma 193 esférica. INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA PROPIEDAD INDUSTRIAL
- 3031. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 30, en donde la porción de conexión incluye un eje a lo largo del eje L2 del miembro de acoplamiento.
- 3132. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 2, que adicionalmente comprende un miembro de empuje que empuja al miembro de acoplamiento a la segunda posición.
- 3233. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 32, en donde el miembro de empuje es un resorte de torsión que contacta a la porción de conexión del miembro de acoplamiento.
- 3334. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 2, en donde el miembro de acoplamiento puede ser inclinado en cualquier dirección relativa a la primera posición.
- 3435. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 2, en donde el miembro de acoplamiento está hecho de un material de resina.
- 3536. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 35, en donde el material de resina es poliacetal.
- 3637. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 2, en donde el miembro de acoplamiento está hecho de un material metálico. 194 INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA PROPIEDAD INDUSTRIAL
- 3738. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con la reivindicación 23, en donde cada proyección incluye una superficie al menos por la cual sobresale la superficie de la porción de impulsión.
- 3839. El cartucho de revelado de acuerdo con cualquiera de las reivindicaciones 1 a 38, en donde el ángulo de inclinación máximo del miembro de acoplamiento es a partir de 20 grados a 60 grados con respecto a la posición del eje L2 del miembro de acoplamiento cuando el miembro de acoplamiento está en la primera posición. 195 IMPI^ INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA PROPIEDAD INDUSTRIAL puede útil 12111 Lun uwRESUMEN Un dispositivo de revelado que se aparato que forma imágenes electrofotográficas, y que se puede mover en una dirección sustancialmente perpendicular a 5 una dirección axial de un eje de impulsión que comprende un miembro de acoplamiento para transmitir una fuerza de rotación al rodillo de revelado, capaz de tomar una posición angular de transmisión de fuerza rotacional para transmitir la fuerza rotacional, una posición angular de pre-engranaje que se 10 toma antes de que el miembro de acoplamiento se engrane con la porción de aplicación de fuerza de rotación y en la cual el miembro de acoplamiento se inclina lejos de la posición angular de transmisión de fuerza rotacional, y una posición angular de desengranaje que se toma para que el miembro de acoplamiento se 15 desengrane del eje de impulsión y en la cual el miembro de acoplamiento se inclina lejos de la posición angular de transmisión de fuerza rotacional en una dirección opuesta a la posición angular de pre-engranaje;en donde en respuesta a un movimiento del dispositivo de revelado, el miembro de acoplamiento se mueve de la 20 posición angular de pre-engranaje a la posición angular de transmisión de fuerza rotacional para estar opuesto al eje de impulsión, y en donde cuando el miembro móvil hace un movimiento adicional en la misma dirección, el miembro de acoplamiento se desengrana del eje de impulsión mediante el movimiento de la posición angular de transmisión 25 de fuerza rotacional a la posición angular de desengranaje.
Independent claims38
1,295 paragraphs in 148 sections, as filed
PATENT APPLICATION (12) (43) Publication date:
03/10/2016 (51) Int. Cl:
(22) Filing date: (21) Applic ation number:
29/06/2009
2014004413
G03G 06/15 <sup>(200601) </sup>G03G 08/15 (2006.01) (30) Priority (s): 03/23/2007 JP 2007-076771 03/21/2008 JP 2008-073685 (71) Applicant:
CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
30-2 Shimomaruko 3-chome 146-8501 Ohta-ku Tokyo JP (72) Inventor (s):
Takahito UENO c / o Canon Kabushiki Kaisha, 30-2 Shimomaruko 3chome Ohta-ku Tokyo 146-8501 JP Shigeo MIYABE
Masanari MORIOKA (74) Representative:
José F. HINOJOSA CUÉLLAR
Paseo de los Tamarindos 400-A, 9th Floor CUAJIMALPA DE MORELOS Distrito Federal 05120 MX (54) Title: DEVICE FORMING ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGES, DEVELOPING DEVICE, AND COUPLING MEMBER.
(54) Title: ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS, DEVELOPING APPARATUS, AND COUPLING MEMBER.
(57) Summary
A developing device that can be used with an electrophotographic imaging apparatus, and that can be moved in a direction substantially perpendicular to an axial d irection of a drive shaft comprising a coupling member for transmitting a rotational force to the platen roller. revealed, capable of taking a rotational force transmission angular position to transmit the rotational force, a pre-engagement angular position which is taken before the coupling member engages the rotational force applying portion and in which the coupling member tilts away from the rotational force transmitting angular position, and an angular position of disengagement which is taken so that the coupling member disengages from the drive shaft and in which the coupling member is inclined away from the rotational force transmitting angular position in a direction opposite to the angular position of pre-gear; wherein in response to a movement of the developing device, the coupling member moves from the pre-engagement angular position to the rotational force transmitting angular position to be opposite the drive axis, and where when the movable member makes an additional movement in the same direction, the coupling member is disengaged from the drive shaft by moving from the rotational force transmitting angular position to the disengaging angular position.
(57) Abstract
A developing device usable with an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, and movable in a direction substantially perpendicular to an axial direction of a driving shaft comprising a coupling member for transmitting a rotating force to the developing roller, capable of taking a rotational force transmitting angular position for transmitting the rotational force, a pre-engagement angular position which is taken before the coupling member is engaged with the rotating force applying portion and in which the coupling member is inclined away from the rotational force transmitting angular position, and a disengaging angular position which is taken for the coupling member to disengage from the driving shaft and in which the coupling member i inclined away from the rotational force transmitting angular position in a direction opposite to the pre-engagement angular position; wherein in response to a movement of the developing device, the coupling member moves from the pre-engagement angular position to the rotational torce transmitting angular position to be opposed to the driving shaft, and wherein when the movable member makes a further movement in the same direction, the coupling member is disengaged from the driving shaft by moving from the rotational torce transmitting angular position to the disengaging angular position.
<img file="MX337559B_D0001.tif" />
PATENT TITLE NO. 337559
Institute
Mexican Property
Industrial i
M
P
I
<img file="MX337559B_D0002.tif" />
Owner (s): CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
Address: 30-2 Shimomaruko 3-chome, Ohta-ku, Tokyo, 146-8501, JAPAN
Name: DEVICE FORMING ELECT IMAGES, ROPHOTOGRAPHICS, DEVELOPING DEVICE, AND COUPLING MEMBER.
Classification: lnt.CI.8: G03G15 / 06; G03G15 / 08
<img file="MX337559B_D0003.tif" />
Validity: Twenty
Date of V <
The reference patent
In accordance with the ai counted from the rights.
Whoever signs the title Itfldoes based on the provisions of articles 6, sections III Industrial Official.
Irrigate them, glasses them
Law of the 7/05/1999,
01/26/2004, 06/16/2005, 01/25/2006, 05/06/2009, 06/01/2010, 06/18/2010, 06/28/2010, 01/27/2012 and 09 / 04/2012); Articles 1, 3, section V Subsection a), 4 and 12, sections I and ill of the Regulation of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (DOF 12/14/1999, amended on 07/01/2002, 07/15/ 2004, 07/28/2004 and 09/07/2007); Articles 1, 3, 4, 5 fraction V subsection a), 16 sections I and III and 30 of the Organic Statute of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (DOF 12/27/1999, amended on 10/10/2002, 07/29/2004, 06/04/2004 and 09/13/2007); 1st, 3rd and 5th subsection a) of the Agreement that delegates powers to the Deputy General Directors, Coordinator, Divisional Directors, Heads of Regional Offices, Divisional Deputy Directors, Departmental Coordinators and other subordinates of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property. (DOF 12/15/1999, amended on 02/04/2000, 07/29/2004, 08/04/2004 and 09/13/2007).
<img file="MX337559B_D0004.tif" />
Issue Date: March 10, 2016 to Divisional Director of Patents
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-i '
NAHANNY CANAL REYES
Arenal No. 550. Floor 1.
Col. Puebio Santa María Tepepan,
Xochimilco. CP 16020. Mexico City Tel. (65) 53 34 07 00, yrws /.
<img file="MX337559B_D0006.tif" />
MX / 2016/20739
33 155 ^ £ ο / 1 Ι <ίΗ 13
IMPI ^
APPLIANCE FORMING ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGES /<sup>N</sup>Aj ^ ATQ; P ^ f <
industrial
REVEALED, AND COUPLING MEMBER
TECHNICAL FIELD DESCRIPTION
The present invention relates to an electrophotographic imaging apparatus, a developing apparatus used in the electrophotographic imaging apparatus, and a coupling member used in the electrophotographic imaging apparatus.
Examples of the electrophotographic imaging apparatus include an electrophotographic copying machine, an electrophotographic printer (a laser beam printer, an LED printer, etc.), and the like.
The developing apparatus (developing device) is mounted in a main assembly of the electrophotographic imaging apparatus and developing an electrostatic latent image formed on an electrophotographic photosensitive member.
The developing device includes a developing device of a fixed type used in a state in which it is mounted and attached to a main assembly of the electrophotographic imaging apparatus and a developing device of a developing cartridge type in which a user can mount it to main mount and can disassemble it from main mount.
IMPI
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROPERTY. . . . INPUSTRIAL
With respect to the fixed type developing device, the
<img file="MX337559B_D0007.tif" />
Maintenance is done by a service person. On the other hand, with respect to the developing cartridge type developing device, maintenance is performed by the user by replacing one developing cartridge with another.
BACKGROUND ART
In a conventional electrophotographic imaging apparatus, the following constitution is known when developing an electrostatic latent image formed on a drum-shaped electrophotographic photosensitive member (hereinafter referred to as a photosensitive drum).
In a Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open (JP-A) 2003-202727, a gear (gear 42Y) is provided to a developing device and meshes with a gear provided for a main assembly of the imaging apparatus. Subsequently, a rotational force is transmitted from a motor provided for the main assembly to a developing roller through the gear provided for the main assembly and the gear provided for the main assembly. Thus, a method for rotating the developing roller is known.
In addition, a color electrophotographic imaging apparatus in which a rotating developing part can be rotated or rotated in the state in which a plurality of devices
<img file="MX337559B_D0008.tif" />
IMPI
<img file="MX337559B_D0009.tif" />
developer mounts to the developing rotary piece, is provided to a main assembly of the apparatus (JP-A HeiTT ^ 015265). In this apparatus, the following cartridge is known to transmit a rotational force from the main assembly of the apparatus to the developing devices. Specifically, a main assembly side coupling (coupling 71) provided for the main assembly of the apparatus and a developing device side coupling (coupling gear 65) of the developing devices (devices 6Y, 6M, 6C) are connected. developing) mounted to a rotating developing piece (multi-color developing device 6), whereby a rotating force is transmitted from the main assembly of the apparatus to the developing devices. When the main assembly side coupling and the developing device side coupling are connected, the main assembly side coupling retracts once towards the apparatus (by spring 74) so as not to hinder the movement of the rotating part of the device. revealed. Subsequently, the developing rotary piece is moved, so that a predetermined developing device is moved in a direction in which the main mount side engagement is provided. Subsequently, the retracted main mount side coupling is moved to the developing device side coupling using a movable mechanism such as a solenoid and the like.
<img file="MX337559B_D0010.tif" />
<img file="MX337559B_D0011.tif" />
the
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL (solenoid 75, arm 76). In this way, both of couplings are connected to each other. Subsequently, a rotating force from a motor provided for the main assembly is transmitted to a developing roller through the main assembly side coupling and the developing device side coupling. As a result, the developing roller is rotated. Such a method is known.
However, in the conventional cartridge described in JP-A 2003-202727, a drive connection portion between the main assembly and the developing device constitutes a gear portion for a gear (gear 35) and a gear (gear 42Y). . For this reason, it is difficult to prevent non-uniformity of rotation of the developing roller.
In the conventional cartridge described in JP-A Hei 11015265, as described above, the main mount side coupling (coupling 71) retracts once towards the apparatus so as not to hinder the movement of the developing device. In addition, during the transmission of the rotational force, it is necessary to move the coupling on the retracted main mount side to the coupling on the developing device side. Thus, it is necessary to provide a mechanism for moving the coupling from the main assembly side to the developing device side for the main assembly of the apparatus. In addition, for the formation of the image, a time should be considered
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ST £ J required for
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0013.tif" />
movement of the main mount side coupling.
DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
A main object of the present invention is to provide a developing apparatus (developing cartridge) capable of solving the above-described problems of conventional cartridges, an electrophotographic imaging apparatus using the developing apparatus, and a coupling member used in the developing apparatus.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a developing apparatus (developing cartridge) capable of engaging a coupling member provided for the developing apparatus (developing cartridge) with a drive shaft by moving the developing apparatus in one direction. substantially perpendicular to an axial direction of the drive shaft even in the case where a main mount is not provided with a mechanism to move a coupling member from the mount side main in the axial direction by a solenoid. The object of the present invention is also to provide an electrophotographic imaging apparatus using the developing apparatus and the coupling member used in the developing apparatus.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a developing apparatus (developing cartridge) capable of engaging
<img file="MX337559B_D0014.tif" />
INSTITUTE ML-i.-i.
PROHIBITED is a drive shaft provided for a primary mounting apparatus that forms electrophotographic images, from a direction substantially perpendicular to an axial direction of the drive shaft. The object of the present invention is also to provide the electrophotographic image forming apparatus using the developing apparatus and a coupling member used in the developing apparatus.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a developing apparatus (developing cartridge) capable of smoothly rotating a developing roller compared to the case where the drive connection of a main assembly and the developing apparatus is carried out through gears. . The object of the present invention is also to provide an electrophotographic image forming apparatus using the developing apparatus and a coupling member used in the developing apparatus.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a developing apparatus (developing cartridge) capable of meshing with a drive shaft provided for a main mounting of an electrophotographic imaging apparatus, from a direction substantially perpendicular to an axial direction of the axis of drive and able to smoothly rotate a developing roller. The object of the present invention is also to provide the electrophotographic image forming apparatus using the developing apparatus and a coupling member used in the developing apparatus.
to. J
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY ^ 4
Another object of the present invention is to provide a developing apparatus capable of mounting and dismounting of a drive shaft provided for a main mounting of an electrophotographic imaging apparatus, from a direction substantially perpendicular to an axial direction of the drive shaft by means of the movement of a movable member in one direction. The object of the present invention is also to provide the electrophotographic image forming apparatus using the developing apparatus and a coupling member used in the developing apparatus.
Another object of the present invention is to provide - a developing apparatus capable of mounting and dismounting of a drive shaft provided for a main mounting of an apparatus that forms electrophotographic images from a direction substantially perpendicular to an axial direction of the drive shaft by means of the movement of a member movable in one direction and capable of smoothly rotating a developing roller. The object of the present invention is also to provide the electrophotographic image forming apparatus using the developing apparatus and a coupling member used in the developing apparatus.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a developing apparatus that includes a coupling member capable of taking an angular position of force transmission
IMPI
MEXICAN INfTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
<img file="MX337559B_D0015.tif" />
rotational force to transmit a rotational force from a main assembly of an electrophotographic imaging apparatus to a developing roller, a pre-engagement angular position in which the coupling member is tilted from the angular force transmission position of rotation and is in a state before being engaged with a rotating force application portion, and a disengagement angular position in which the coupling member is inclined from the rotational force transmitting angular position in a direction opposite to the pre-engagement angular position to be disengaged from the drive shaft. The object of the present invention is to provide the electrophotographic image forming apparatus using the developing apparatus and the coupling member used in the developing apparatus.
In accordance with the present invention, It is possible to provide a developing apparatus capable of engaging a coupling member provided for the developing apparatus (developing cartridge) with a drive shaft by moving the developing apparatus (developing cartridge) in a direction substantially perpendicular to a direction. axial drive shaft even in the case where a main mount is not provided with a mechanism for moving a mating member from the main mount side in the direction axial using a solenoid. In accordance with the present
IMPI
INSTITUTE MEXiCAiso
FROM THE PRO? Ít.DAD INDUSrP. '. TO
<img file="MX337559B_D0016.tif" />
invention, it is also possible to provide and η apq »* · form electrophotographic images using the developing apparatus and the coupling member used in the developing apparatus.
Furthermore, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a developing apparatus capable of engaging a drive shaft provided for a main mounting of an electrophotographic imaging apparatus, from a direction substantially perpendicular to an axial direction of the drive shaft. According to the present invention, it is also possible to provide the electrophotographic imaging apparatus using the developing apparatus and a coupling member used in the developing apparatus.
Furthermore, according to the present invention, it is possible to smoothly rotate a developing roller compared to the case where the driving connection of a main assembly of the apparatus and the developing apparatus is carried out through gears.
Furthermore, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a developing apparatus capable of meshing with a drive shaft provided for a main mounting of an electrophotographic imaging apparatus, from a direction substantially perpendicular to an axial direction of the drive shaft. and capable of smoothly rotating a developing roller. In accordance with the present invention, it is also
<img file="MX337559B_D0017.tif" />
, L p τ /
<img file="MX337559B_D0018.tif" />
It is possible to provide the electrophotographic imaging apparatus using the developing apparatus and a coupling member used in the developing apparatus.
Furthermore, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a developing apparatus capable of mounting and dismounting of a drive shaft provided for the main mounting of the apparatus, from a direction substantially perpendicular to an axial direction of the drive shaft by means of the movement of a movable member in one direction.
According to the present invention, it is also possible to provide the electrophotographic imaging apparatus using the developing apparatus and a coupling member used in the developing apparatus.
Furthermore, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a developing apparatus capable of mounting with and dismounting of a drive shaft provided for the main mounting of the apparatus, from a direction substantially perpendicular to an axial direction of the drive shaft by means of the movement of a member movable in one direction and capable of smoothly rotating a developing roller. According to the present invention, it is also possible to provide the electrophotographic imaging apparatus using the developing apparatus and a coupling member used in the developing apparatus.
Furthermore, according to the present invention, it is possible
Μ
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0019.tif" />
providing a developing apparatus including a coupling member capable of taking a rotational force transmission angular position to transmit a rotational force from the main assembly of the apparatus to a developing roller, a pre-engagement angular position in which the coupling member is inclined from the rotational force transmitting angular position and is in a state before being engaged with a rotational force applying portion, and a disengagement angular position in which the coupling member is inclined from the rotational force transmitting angular position in a direction opposite to the pre-engagement angular position to be disengaged from the drive shaft.
Furthermore, according to the present invention, it is possible to engage and disengage a coupling member provided for a developing apparatus with respect to a drive shaft provided for a main mounting of the apparatus, from a direction substantially perpendicular to an axial direction of the axis. drive by moving a movable member in one direction.
Furthermore, according to the present invention, it is possible to engage and disengage a coupling member provided for a developing apparatus with respect to a drive shaft provided for a main mounting of the apparatus, from a direction substantially perpendicular to an axial direction.
1NST
<img file="MX337559B_D0020.tif" />
of the drive shaft by moving a movable member in one direction, and it is also possible to smoothly rotate a developing roller.
Furthermore, according to the present invention, even when a main assembly is not provided with a mechanism for moving a coupling member from the main assembly side to transmit a rotational force to a developing roller in an axial direction of the coupling member by a solenoid, it is possible to engage a coupling member provided for a developing apparatus with a drive shaft by moving a movable member. As a result, according to the present invention, it is possible to achieve an improvement in the speed of image formation.
These and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent upon consideration of the following description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
brief description of the drawings
Figure 1 / presents a side sectional view of a
<td>cartridge</td><td>of revealed ok</td><td>with</td><td>a</td><td>modality of</td><td>the</td>
<td>Present</td><td>invention.</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td>
<td>The</td><td>Figure 2 presents a</td><td>sight</td><td>on</td><td>perspective</td><td>of</td>
<td>cartridge</td><td>of revealed ok</td><td>with</td><td>the</td><td>modality of</td><td>the</td>
present invention.
<img file="MX337559B_D0021.tif" />
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INSTITUTE MF: ÍV '* ^ r.
DSL · iNDUSTRMí.
Figure 3 presents a perspective view of the developing cartridge according to the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 4 presents a side sectional view of a main assembly of an electrophotographic imaging apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 5 presents a perspective view of a developing roller in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 6 presents a perspective view and a * longitudinal sectional view of a coupling according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 7 presents a perspective view of a developing support member in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 8 presents a perspective view of a coupling according to one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 9 presents a sectional view of one side of the developing cartridge in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 10 presents an exploded view of a coupling member in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
<img file="MX337559B_D0022.tif" />
INST'.TUTC
OS LA.
i N ÍA.
Figure 11 presents a longitudinal sectional view of the developing cartridge in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 12 presents a longitudinal sectional view of the developing cartridge according to the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 13 presents a longitudinal sectional view of the developing cartridge according to the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 14 presents a perspective view of a coupling in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 15 presents a perspective view of a rotary member (hereinafter called rotary) according to the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 16 presents a perspective view of the rotating member in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 17 presents a perspective view of the rotating member in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 18 shows a view, as viewed from the side, of a main assembly of the apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 19 shows a view of the main assembly of the
<img file="MX337559B_D0023.tif" />
apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention, as viewed from the side.
Figure 20 shows a view of the main assembly of the apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention, as viewed from the side.
Figure 21 is the Figure of the main assembly of the apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention, as viewed from the side.
Figure 22 presents a longitudinal sectional view showing the engagement process between the drive shaft and the coupling in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 23 presents an exploded perspective view of the drive shaft and coupling in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 24 presents an exploded perspective view of the drive shaft and coupling in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 25 presents a perspective view showing the drive shaft coupling disengagement process in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 26 presents the time graph of the operations of one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 27 presents a perspective view of a coupling according to an embodiment of the present
IMPÍ
INSTITUTO MEX5CA 'Μ DE LA PROEiSDAD INDUSTRIAL invention. ___________
Figure 28 presents a perspective view of the coupling according to the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 29 presents a perspective view of a drive shaft in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 30 presents a perspective view of a
<img file="MX337559B_D0024.tif" />
<td>coupling</td><td>from</td><td>agreement</td><td>with</td><td>the</td><td>modality</td><td>from</td><td>the</td><td>Present</td>
<td>invention.</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td>
<td colspan="2">The figure</td><td colspan="2">31 presents</td><td>a</td><td>seen in</td><td colspan="3">perspective of</td>
<td>coupling</td><td>from</td><td>agreement</td><td>with</td><td>the</td><td>modality</td><td>from</td><td>the</td><td>Present</td>
invention.
Figure 32 presents a perspective view of one side of a developing cartridge in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 33 presents a partial sectional view of the developing cartridge and a developing shaft in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 34 presents a longitudinal sectional view illustrating the developing cartridge removal process in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 35 presents a longitudinal sectional view illustrating the engagement process between the drive shaft and the coupling in accordance with the present embodiment.
<img file="MX337559B_D0025.tif" />
invention.
Figure 36 presents a perspective view of a developing support member in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 37 presents a perspective view of one side of a developing cartridge in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 38 presents a perspective view illustrating the state of the gear between the drive shaft and the coupling according to the embodiment of the present invention, and a longitudinal sectional view.
Figure 39 presents a perspective view of a developing support member in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 40 presents a perspective view of a coupling in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 41 presents a perspective view of one side of a developing cartridge in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 42 presents a perspective view and a longitudinal sectional view illustrating a state of the engagement between the drive shaft and the coupling in the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 43 presents a perspective view,
IM nueTiTi ϊτι ~ \ r .. '
ΊΠ exploded, illustrating a state of mounting the aópiamieñtn ^^ to the developing support member, in fashion 11 of the present invention.
Figure 44 presents a perspective view of a coupling in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 45 presents a longitudinal sectional view illustrating an engaged state between the developing shaft and the coupling in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 46 presents a longitudinal sectional view showing an engaged state between the drive shaft and the coupling in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 47 presents a side view of a rotary member flange in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 48 presents a side view of the rim of the rotary member in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 49 illustrates a coupling site shown in Figure 47 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 50 presents a sectional view of the drive shaft and coupling of Figure 38 according to a pj 't 1 19
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<img file="MX337559B_D0026.tif" />
embodiment of the present invention. ____
Figure 51 presents an illustration of a coupling in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 52 presents a longitudinal sectional view illustrating a state prior to engagement between the drive shaft and the coupling related to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 53 presents a perspective view and a longitudinal sectional view of a coupling according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 54 presents a perspective view of a coupling in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 55 presents a longitudinal sectional view showing an engaged state between the drive shaft and the coupling in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 56 presents a perspective view showing the process of meshing between the drive shaft and the coupling in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 57 presents a perspective view of a developing cartridge in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 58 presents a perspective view of the
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developing cartridge according to the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 59 presents a perspective view illustrating a drive input gear in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
<td>The</td><td>Figure 60 presents a view in</td><td>perspective</td><td>from</td><td>a</td>
<td>cartridge</td><td>development according to a</td><td>modality</td><td>from</td><td>the</td>
<td>Present</td><td>invention.</td><td></td><td></td><td></td>
<td>The</td><td>Figure 61 presents a view in</td><td>perspective</td><td>Y</td><td>a</td>
longitudinal sectional view of a coupling according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 62 presents an exploded longitudinal section of a drive input gear and coupling in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 63 presents an exploded perspective view of the coupling and support member in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 64 presents a longitudinal sectional view of a developing cartridge in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 65 presents a longitudinal sectional view of a developing cartridge in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 66 presents a perspective view showing an engaged state of the gear of the idler roller.
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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF THE PRO Π AGE
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0028.tif" />
development and coupling in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 67 presents a longitudinal sectional view illustrating the engagement process between the coupling and the drive shaft in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 68 presents a perspective view of the drive shaft and coupling in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 69 presents a longitudinal sectional view illustrating the drive shaft coupling disengagement process in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 70 presents a perspective view of a developing cartridge in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 71 presents a perspective view of one side of a developing cartridge in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention (cartridge side plate omitted).
Figure 72 presents a perspective view illustrating a drive input gear in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 73 presents a side view of the main assembly of the apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention.
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O, I 1 'and
I> x; l; 5T: UAL A side view of a montaie, according to one embodiment of the A sectional view of the assembly according to the embodiment of the
Figure 74 presents the main apparatus of the present invention.
Figure 75 presents the main apparatus of the present invention.
Figure 76 presents a perspective view and a longitudinal sectional view illustrating coupling in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 77 presents a side view and a perspective view of a coupling in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 78 presents a longitudinal sectional view illustrating the engagement process and the disengagement process between the drive shaft and the coupling in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention.
BEST WAY TO CARRY OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, a developing cartridge, an electrophotographic imaging apparatus, and a coupling member according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
In the following embodiments, a developing cartridge of the type is described in which a user can mount and dismount the development cartridge with respect to a main assembly of the apparatus. However, the present invention
<img file="MX337559B_D0029.tif" />
<sup>WL</sup>V.ÍÍ?<sup>,</sup>’<sup>, Er</sup>'* D • NDUSTRMl is also applicable to a developing device that<sup>-</sup> 5e used in a state in which it is mounted and attached to the main morff.
Furthermore, the present invention is specifically applicable to a single coupling member (for example, those shown in Figures 6 (a), 14 (a3), 28 (c), 30 and 77 (b)), a developing device (developing cartridge) (eg, those shown in Figures 2, 57 and 60), and an electrophotographic imaging apparatus (eg, those shown in Figures 5 and 75).
Mode 1 (1) Brief description of the developing cartridge (developing device)
First, with reference to Figures 1 to 4, a developing cartridge B will be described as a developing device to which an embodiment of the present invention is applied (hereinafter simply referred to as a cartridge). Figure 1 presents a sectional view of the cartridge B. Figures 2 and 3 present perspective views of the cartridge B. Figure 4 presents a sectional view of a main assembly A of the color electrophotographic imaging apparatus (hereinafter referred to as a main assembly of the apparatus).
This cartridge B can be mounted to and dismounted from a rotating member C provided for the main mounting A of the
<img file="MX337559B_D0030.tif" />
appliance by a user.
Referring to Figures 1-3, cartridge B includes a developing roller 110. The developing roller is rotated by receiving a rotating force from the main assembly A of the apparatus through a coupling mechanism described later during a developing function. In a frame 114 housing the developer, a developer t of a predetermined color is housed. This developer is fed into a developer chamber 113a in a predetermined amount by rotating a stirring member 116. The fed developer is supplied to a surface of the developing roller by rotating a roller 115 which supplies the developer as a sponge into the developer chamber 113a. This developer is formed into a thin layer by being supplied with electrical charges by triboelectric charging between a developing sheet 112 as a thin plate and the developing roller 110. The developer formed in the thin layer on the developing roller 110 is fed to a rotational developing position. By applying a predetermined developing bias to developing roller 110, an electrostatic latent image formed on an electrophotographic photosensitive member 107 (hereinafter referred to as a photosensitive drum) is developed. That is, the electrostatic latent image is developed by the developing roller 110.
<img file="MX337559B_D0031.tif" />
I
INS
In addition, the developer that does not contribute to the development of the electrostatic latent image, that is, the residual developer that is removed on the surface of the developing roller 110, is removed by the roller 115 that supplies the developer. At the same time, a fresh developer is supplied to the surface of the developing roller 110 by the roller 115 supplying the developer. In this way, a developing operation is performed successively.
Cartridge B includes a developing unit 119. The developing unit 119 includes a developing frame 113 and frame 114 that houses the developer. The developing unit 119 further includes the developing roller 110, the developing sheet 112, the developer supplying roller 115 / developer chamber 113a, the developer housing frame 14, and the stirring member 116.
The developing roller 110 is rotatable about an axial line L1.
Here, the developing cartridge B is mounted by the user to a portion 130A that houses the developing cartridge provided for a rotation selection mechanism C (developing rotating member) of the main assembly A of the apparatus. At this time, as described below, a drive shaft of the main assembly A of the apparatus and a coupling member as a rotating driving force transmitting part 25 of the cartridge B, are connected to each other at 'f ^ UAD
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0032.tif" />
interrelation with such an operation that ot 'R is positioned at a predetermined position (portion opposite to the photosensitive drum) by the developing rotating member C (rotation selection mechanism). In this way, the roller. Developing 110 and the like are rotated by receiving a driving force from the main assembly A of the apparatus.
(2) Description of the electrophotographic imaging apparatus
With reference to Figure 4, a color electrophotographic imaging apparatus using the disclosed developing cartridge B will be described. In the following, the description will be made by taking a laser beam color printer as an example of the color electrophotographic image forming apparatus.
As shown in Figure 4, a plurality of cartridges B (Bl, B2, B3, B4) housing developers (organic pigments or toners) of different color, is mounted to the rotating member C. The assembly and disassembly of the cartridge B with with respect to the rotary member C are made by the user. By rotating the rotating member C, a cartridge B housing a developer of a predetermined color is arranged opposite the photosensitive drum 107. Subsequently, an electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 107 is developed. The developed image is transferred ιμρϊ
INSTITUTO MEXICANO ··. · On a registration material S. This ^ ideTírevéi ^ transfer operation is performed for each of the «·» 1θ3 = β & · χ- € θίηο ·· ΐ »- * result, a color image is obtained. Here below, the specific description will be made. The recording material S is a material on which an image can be formed and includes, for example, paper, an OHP sheet, and the like.
Referring to Figure 4, the photosensitive drum 107 is irradiated with light based on the image information from an optical medium 101. By this irradiation, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum 107. The electrostatic latent image is developed with a developer by developing roller 110. The image of the developer formed on the photosensitive drum 107 is transferred onto an intermediate transfer member.
Next, the image of the developer transferred onto an intermediate transfer belt 104a as the intermediate transfer member, is transferred onto the recording material S by a second transfer means. Subsequently, the recording material S on which the developer image is transferred is conveyed to a fixing means 105 including a pressure roller 105a and a heating roller 105b. The image of the developer transferred onto the recording material S is fixed on the recording material S. After fixing, the
IMPI
Mexican INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL ΡλΟΧΐΓπΛΩ
<img file="MX337559B_D0033.tif" />
Record material S is discharged onto a tray 106.
An imaging step will be more specifically described.
In sync with the rotation of the intermediate transfer belt 104a, the photosensitive drum 107 is rotated counterclockwise (Figure 4). Subsequently, a surface of the photosensitive drum 107 is electrically charged evenly by a charge roller 108. The surface of the photosensitive drum 107 is irradiated with light depending on the image information, for example, around a yellow image by the optical medium 101 (exposure). In this way, an electrostatic latent yellow image is formed on the photosensitive drum 107.
The display means 101 is constituted as follows. The exposure means 101 irradiates the photosensitive drum 107 with light based on reading the image information from an external device (not shown). As a result, the electrostatic latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum 107. The exposure means 101 includes a laser diode, a polygon mirror, a scanner motor, an imaging lens, and a reflection mirror.
An image signal is sent from the external device not shown. Through this operation, the laser diode emits light
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<img file="MX337559B_D0034.tif" />
INStítót DS LA depending on the image signal and the polygon mirror is irradiated with the light (like the image light). The polygon mirror is rotated at a high speed by the scanner motor to reflect the image light, so that the surface of the photosensitive drum 107 is selectively exposed to the image light through the lens. imaging and reflection mirror. As a result, the electrostatic latent image dependent on the image information is formed on the photosensitive drum 107.
Simultaneously with this electrostatic latent imaging, the rotating member C is rotated, whereby a yellow cartridge Bl is moved to a developing position. Subsequently, a predetermined development bias is applied to the development roller 110. As a result, a yellow developer is deposited on the electrostatic latent image, so that the electrostatic latent image is developed with the yellow developer.
Subsequently, a bias voltage of a polarity opposite that of the developer is applied to a pressure roller 104j (a primary transfer roller) for the intermediate transfer belt 104a, so that the image of the yellow developer on the drum 107 photosensitive is transferred primarily over the intermediate transfer.
104th band of
INSTITUTO N'EXiCA D £ LA PRO'WC INDUiTR
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<img file="MX337559B_D0035.tif" />
As described above, after the primary image transfer of the yellow developer is completed, the rotary member C is rotated. As a result, a subsequent cartridge B2 is moved to be located in a position opposite the photosensitive drum 107. The process described above is performed with respect to a magenta B2 cartridge, a cyan B3 cartridge, and a black B4 cartridge. In this manner, by repeating the process for each of magenta, cyan, and black, four-color developer images are superimposed on the intermediate transfer band 104a.
Incidentally, the yellow Bl cartridge houses the yellow developer and forms the image of the yellow developer. The magenta B2 cartridge houses a magenta developer and forms an image of the magenta developer. The B3 cyano cartridge houses a *
cyano developer and forms an image of the cyano developer. The black B4 cartridge houses a black developer and forms an image of the black developer.
During the imaging described above, a secondary transfer roller 104b is in a state of non-contact with the intermediate transfer belt 104a. A cleaning charge roller 104f is also in a state of non-contact with the intermediate transfer belt 104a.
After the developer images of
<img file="MX337559B_D0036.tif" />
four colors on the intermediate transfer belt 104a, the secondary transfer roller 104b is pressed against the intermediate transfer belt 104a (Figure 4). In synchronism with the pressure contact of the secondary transfer roller 104b, the registration material S waiting at a position in the vicinity of a pair 103e of registration rollers is sent to a contact point between the transfer belt 104a and the transfer roller 104b. At the same time, a recording material S is fed from a cassette 103a by a feed roller 103b and a pair of transport rollers 103c as a feed (transport) means 103.
Immediately before the pair 103e of registration rollers, a detector 99 is disposed. The detector 99 detects a leading end of the registration material S and stops the rotation of the pair 103e of registration rollers, thereby placing the registration material S in a waiting state in a predetermined position.
To the transfer roller 104b, a bias voltage of a polarity opposite to that of the developer is applied, so that the images of the developer on the transfer belt 104a are secondarily transferred simultaneously onto the conveyed recording material S.
The recording material S on which the images from the developer are transferred and conveyed to the medium 105 of
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INSTITU fO MíJÍ'C'A '·' Ο D £ LA? ROPír - :? AD
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0037.tif" />
fixation through a unit 103f of banclá Üé Liaiitpui La. By the fixing means 105, fixing of the images of the developer is performed. The recording material S subjected to the fixation is discharged onto a discharge tray 106 arranged in an upper portion of the main assembly of the apparatus by a pair 103g of discharge rollers. In this way, the formation of an image or the recording material S is completed.
After the completion of the secondary transfer, the charge roller 104f is pressed against the transfer belt 104a, so that the surface of the belt 104a and the developer remaining on the surface of the belt 104a are supplied with the voltage of default polarization. As a result, a residual electrical charge is removed.
Residual developer subjected to charge removal is electrostatically re-transferred from web 104a onto photosensitive drum 107 through a primary transfer contact point. As a result, the surface of the band 104a is cleaned. Residual developer re-transferred onto the photosensitive drum 107 after secondary transfer is removed by a cleaning sheet 117a that contacts the photosensitive drum 107. The removed developer is collected in a waste developer box 107d via a transport passage (not shown).
<img file="MX337559B_D0038.tif" />
is a
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
Incidentally, a chamber housing portion 130a in which the above-described cartridge B is housed and is provided for the rotary member C in a plurality of positions. The rotary member C is rotated in a direction in a state in which the cartridge B is mounted in the chamber. As a result, a coupling member (described below) of the cartridge B is connected to a drive shaft 180 provided for the main assembly A of the apparatus y. it is disconnected from the drive shaft 180. The cartridge B (developing roller 110) moves in a direction substantially perpendicular to a direction L3 of the axial line of the drive shaft 180 depending on the movement of the rotating member C in one direction.
(3) Development roller constitution
Next, with reference to Figures 5 (a) and 5 (b), a constitution of the developing roller 110 will be described. Figure 5 (a) presents a perspective view of the developing roller 110 as viewed from a side receiving a driving force from main assembly A to the developing roller 110 (hereinafter simply referred to as a driving side ). Figure 5 (b) presents a perspective view of the developing roller 110 as viewed from an opposite side of the drive side with respect to the axial direction of the developing roller 110 (hereinafter referred to as a non-drive side. ).
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MEXICAN INSTITUTE
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INDUSTRY!.
The developing roller 110 includes a rolling shaft 1 & 3 and a rubber portion 110a. The developing shaft 153 is formed of an electroconductive material such as iron or the like in an elongated shaft shape and is covered with the rubber portion 110a in one portion except for both end portions with respect to the axial direction. The developing shaft 153 is rotatably supported by the developing frame 113 through supports or bearings (not shown) at both end gear portions 153dl and 153d2. In addition, a cartridge 150 described below is positioned at an end portion 153b on the drive side. Cartridge 150 engages a rotational force transmitting bolt 155 described below to transmit a driving force. The rubber portion 110 coaxially covers the developing shaft 153. The rubber portion 110 carries the developer and develops the electrostatic latent image by applying a bias to the developing shaft 153.
The roller contact point width adjusting members 136 and 137 are members for adjusting a contact point width of the developing roller 110 with respect to the photosensitive drum 107 at a constant value.
Supports not shown are disposed on both end portions 153dl and 153d2 of the developing roller 110 in order to rotatably support the developing roller 110 on ir i.
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PEOPITDAD
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0039.tif" />
the frame 113 of the developing device (Figure 1).
A developing gear (not shown) is provided at the drive-side end portion 153dl of the developing roller 110 and is attached to the developing shaft 153. The developing gear not shown transmits the rotational force received from the main assembly A of the apparatus to the developing roller 110 to other rotating members (eg, the roller 115 supplying the developer, the stirring member, and the like) of the cartridge B of developing.
The drive-side end portion of the developing shaft 153 in which the cartridge 150 is movably (pivotally, oscillatingly) mounted will now be more specifically described. The end portion 153b has a spherical shape so that the axial line L2 of the cartridge 150 (described later) can be gently inclined. In the vicinity of one end of the developing shaft 153, the driving force transmitting bolt 155 for receiving the rotational force of the cartridge 150 is arranged in a direction that crosses the axial line L1 of the developing shaft 153.
The bolt 155 as the rotational force transmitting portion, is formed of metal and attached to the developing shaft 153 by a method such as press fit, bonding, or the like. The fixing position can be any position in which a driving force (rotational force) can be transmitted, i.e. a direction that crosses the line L1
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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
<img file="MX337559B_D0040.tif" />
Axial axis of the developing shaft (developing roller) It is possible for the bolt 155 to pass through a spherical center P2 (Figure 10b) of the end portion 153b of the developing shaft 153. This is because a rotational force transmission diameter is always kept at a constant level even in the case where the axial line LI of the developing shaft 153 and the axial line L2 of the cartridge 150 deviate by one.
<td>little between</td><td>Yes.</td><td>For</td><td>is</td><td>reason,</td><td>it is possible to achieve</td><td>a</td>
<td>transmission</td><td>from</td><td>force</td><td>from</td><td>rotation</td><td>stable. Point</td><td>from</td>
<td>transmission</td><td>from</td><td>force</td><td>from</td><td>rotation</td><td>can be provided</td><td>on</td>
any position. However, to reliably transmit a driving torque (rotational force) and improve a mounting property, a single bolt 155 is used in this embodiment. Bolt 155 is passed through the center P2 of the surface. Extreme spherical 153b. As a result, bolt 155 (155al and 155a2) is arranged to be projected 180 degrees opposite each other on a peripheral surface of the drive shaft. That is, the rotational force is transmitted to two points. In this embodiment, the bolt 155 is fixed on the side of the end portion within 5 mm of the end of the drum shaft 153. However, the present invention is not limited to this.
Incidentally, an electrical developing contact on the main assembly side (not shown) is arranged in the main assembly A of the apparatus so as to contact a portion
INSTITUI O .VLX¡C ?,
OF THE ΡΛΟΓΊΕΓΙΛΪ) INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0041.tif" />
153c end of the non-drive side of the shaft 153 dtí revealed · electroconductive. An electrical contact (not shown) of the developing cartridge and the developing electrical contact on the main assembly side are contacted with each other. In this manner, a high voltage bias from the main assembly A of the apparatus is supplied to the developing roller 110.
(4) Description of the driving force transmission rotary part (coupling, coupling member)
One embodiment of the coupling (coupling member) which is a rotary driving force transmitting part as a main constituent element of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 6 (a) to 6 (f). Figure 6 (a) presents a perspective view of the coupling as viewed from the main mount side of the apparatus and Figure 6 (b) presents a perspective view of the coupling as viewed from the photosensitive drum side. Figure 6 (c) presents a view of the coupling as viewed from a direction perpendicular to a direction of an axis L2 of rotation of the coupling. Figure 6 (d) presents a side view of the coupling as viewed from the main mount side of the apparatus and Figure 6 (e) presents a view of the coupling as viewed from the photosensitive drum side. Figure 6 (f) presents a sectional view of the
<img file="MX337559B_D0042.tif" />
coupling taken along the line S3 03 mooted in Figure 6 (d).
The developing cartridge B is removably mounted to the cartridge housing portion 130a in the rotating member C provided in the main assembly A of the apparatus. This assembly is done by the user. The rotary member C is rotationally driven and stopped at a position in which the cartridge B reaches a predetermined position (developing position in which the cartridge B is located opposite the photosensitive drum 107). By this operation, the coupling 150 (coupling member) is engaged with a drive shaft 180 provided for the main assembly A of the apparatus. Furthermore, the rotary member C is rotated in a direction to move the cartridge B from the predetermined position (developing position). That is, cartridge B retracts from the predetermined position. As a result, the coupling 150 moves away from the drive shaft 180. Coupling 150 receives rotational force from a motor 64 (FIG. 17) provided for main assembly A of the apparatus in a state of engagement with drive shaft 180. Coupling 150 transmits the rotational force to developing roller 110. As a result, the developing roller 110 is rotated by the rotational force received from the main assembly A of the apparatus.
As described above, drive shaft 180
<img file="MX337559B_D0043.tif" />
It has a bolt 182 (rotational force application portion) and is rotated by motor 64.
A material for the coupling 150 is a resin material such as polyacetal, polycarbonate, or the like. To improve the rigidity of the coupling 150, it is also possible to improve the rigidity by incorporating fiberglass or the like in the resin material depending on a torque of the load. Furthermore, it is also possible to use a metal material. In this way, the material for the coupling 150 can be appropriately selectable. However, the coupling made of resin can be easily processed, so that the respective cartridges in this embodiment are formed of the resin material.
Coupling 150 primarily comprises three portions.
The first portion can be meshed with the drive shaft 180 (which will be described below) as shown in Figure 6 (c), and is a portion 150a driven to receive the rotational force of the rotational force transmitting bolt 182 which it is a rotational force applying portion (main mount side rotational force transmitting portion) provided on the drive shaft 180. Furthermore, the second portion can be meshed with the bolt 155 provided for the developing device shaft 153, and is a drive portion 150b for transmitting k10
<img file="MX337559B_D0044.tif" />
rotational force to developing roller 110. Furthermore, the third portion is an intermediate portion 150c for connecting the driven portion 150a and the driving portion 150b to each other (Figure 8 (c) and (f)).
As shown in Figure 6 (f) the driven portion 150a is provided with a drive shaft insertion opening portion 150m that expands toward the axis L2 of rotation. The drive portion 150b has a developing device shaft insertion opening portion 1501.
The opening 150m is defined by a conical drive shaft receiving surface 150f that expands toward the side of the drive shaft 180 (Figures 9 through 13). The receiving surface 150f constitutes a recess 150z as shown in Figure 6 (f). The recess 150z includes the opening 150m in a position opposite the developing roller 110 with respect to the direction of the axis L2.
By this, regardless of the phase of the rotation of the developing roller 110 in the cartridge B, the coupling 150 can move (pivot) between an angular position of pre-engagement (Figure 22 (a)), an angular position of transmission of rotational force (Figure 22 (d)), and an angular position of disengagement (Figures 25 (a) (d)) relative to the axis L3 of the drive shaft 180 without being prevented by the free end portion 182a of the drive shaft 180.
The details of this will be described below.
<img file="MX337559B_D0045.tif" />
<img file="MX337559B_D0046.tif" />
A plurality of projections 150d (150dl — .m. „1,5,0 ^ 14.) - (Xas. Gear portions) are provided at equal intervals on a circumference about the axis L2 on an end surface of the recess 150z. Between adjacent projections 150d, input portions 150k (150kl, 150k2, 150k3, 150k4) are provided. An interval between projections
Adjacent 150dl - 150d4 is greater than the outside diameter of bolt 182, so rotational force transmission bolts provided for drive shaft 180 are received (potions
182 rotational force application). Bolts are the rotational force application potions. The recesses between the adjacent projections are the 150kl-150k4 inlet portions. When the rotational force is transmitted to the coupling 150 from the drive shaft 180, the bolts 182 are received by any of the input portions 150kl - 150k4. Furthermore, in Figure 6 (d), the rotational force receiving surfaces 150e (150el-150e4) (rotational force receiving portions) are provided upstream with respect to the direction (XI) in the clockwise direction. of the clock of each 150d projection. The receiving surface 150el-150e4 extends in the direction that intersects the rotational direction of the coupling 150.
<td colspan="2">More particularly,</td><td>projection 150dl</td><td>have</td><td>a</td><td>surface</td>
<td>150el</td><td>recipient, the</td><td>150d2 projection</td><td>have</td><td>a</td><td>surface</td>
<td>25 150e2</td><td>recipient, the</td><td>150d3 projection</td><td>have</td><td>a</td><td>surface</td>
ΪΜΡΟ
δ.
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0047.tif" />
150e3 receiving, and, a 150d4 projection has a 150e4 receiving superstructure. In the state where the drive shaft 180 is rotated, the bolt 182al, 182a2 contacts any of the receiving surfaces 150e. By doing this, the receiving surface 150e contacted by the bolt 182al, 182a2 is pushed by the bolt 182. By this, the coupling 150 is rotated about the axis L2.
To stabilize the transmission torque transmitted to the coupling 150 as much as possible, it is desirable to arrange the rotational force receiving surfaces 150e on a phantom circle (the same circumference) having a center 0 on the L2 axis (Figure 6 ( d)). By this, the rotational force transmission radius is constant and the torque transmitted to the coupling 150 is stabilized. Furthermore, as regards the projections 150d, it is preferable that the position of the coupling 150 is stabilized by balancing the forces received by the coupling 150. For this reason, in this embodiment, the receiving surfaces 150e are arranged at the positions diametrically opposite (180 degrees). More particularly, in this embodiment, the receiving surface 150el and the receiving surface 150e3 are diametrically opposed to each other, and the receiving surface 150e2 and the surface 150e4 are diametrically opposed to each other. Through this arrangement, the forces received by the
<img file="MX337559B_D0048.tif" />
IM
INS'ÍY
OF THE PR :.
Coupling 150 constitutes a force coupling. Accordingly, the coupling 150 can continue the rotary motion only by receiving the force coupling. For this reason, the coupling 150 can rotate without the need to be specified in the position of the axis L2 of rotation thereof. Also, as regards the number thereof, as long as the bolts 182 of the driving shaft 180 (the rotational force applying portion) can enter the input portions 150k (150kl-150k2), it is possible to select it appropriately. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 6, all four receiving surfaces are provided. This mode is not limited to this example. For example, the receiving surfaces 150e (projections 150dl - 150d4) need not be arranged on the same circumference (the phantom circle Cl and Figure 6 (d)). Or, you don't need to arrange them in diametrically opposite positions. However, the effects described above can be provided by arranging the receiving surfaces 150e as described above.
Here, in this embodiment, the diameter of the bolt is approximately 2mm, and a circumferential length of the input portion 150k is approximately 8mm. The circumferential length of the input portion 150k is an interval between the adjacent projections 150d (on the circle
ΙΜΡΪ
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0049.tif" />
ghost). The dimensions are not limiting for the present invention.
Similar to the opening 150m, a developing device shaft insertion opening portion 1501 has a conical rotational force receiving surface 150i of a part as an expanded part that expands towards the developing device shaft 153. The receiving surface 150i constitutes a recess 150q, as shown in Figure 6 (f).
By this, regardless of the phase of the rotation of the developing roller 110 in the cartridge B, the coupling 150 can move (pivot, oscillate) between a rotational force transmission angular position, a pre-engagement angular position, and an angular position of disengagement for the axis Ll without being prevented by the free end portion of the axis 153 of the developing device. The recess or cavity 150q is constituted in the illustrated example by a conical receiving surface 150i which has been centered on the axis L2. Auxiliary apertures 150gl or 150g2 (aperture) are provided in receiving surface 150i (Figure 6 (b)). As regards the coupling 150, the bolts 155 can be inserted into this opening 150gl or 150g2 so that it can be mounted to the shaft 153 of the developing device. And, the size of the apertures 150gl or
150g2 is greater than the outside diameter of the bolt. 155.
<img file="MX337559B_D0050.tif" />
By doing this, regardless of the phase of the rotation of the developing roller 110 in the cartridge B, the coupling 150 can be moved (pivotally, oscillatingly) between the rotational force transmission angular position and the rotational force transmission angular position. pre-engagement (or disengagement angular position) as will be described below without being prevented by bolt 155.
More particularly, the projection 150d is provided adjacent the free end of the recess or cavity 150z. And, the projections 150d (projection portions) project in the intersection direction that intersects the rotational direction in which the coupling 150 is rotated, and are provided with the intervals along the rotational direction. And, in the state where the cartridge B is mounted to the rotary member C, the receiving surfaces 150e mesh with or abut the bolt 182, and are pushed by the bolt 182 which receives the force of the rotary drive shaft.
By this, the receiving surfaces 150e receive the rotational force from the drive shaft 180. Furthermore, the receiving surfaces 150e are arranged equidistant from the axis L2, and constitute a pair interposing the axis L2 of which they are constituted by the surface in the direction of intersection in the projections 150d. Furthermore, the input portions 150k (recesses) are provided along the rotational direction, and are reduced in the direction of the axis L2.
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OF THE PHOJJEDAD
INCUSTlU / lL
The input portion 150k is formed as a spar-ίη the adjacent projections 150d. In the state where the cartridge B is mounted to the rotating member C in the case where the drive shaft stops its rotation, the bolt 182 enters the input portion 150k when the coupling meshes with the drive shaft 180. And, the bolt 182 of the rotation drive shaft 180 pushes the receiving surface 150e. Or, in the case where the drive shaft 180 has already rotated when the coupling meshes with the drive shaft 180, the bolt 182 enters the input portion 150k and pushes the receiving portion 150e.
By this, the coupling 150 is rotated or rotated. The rotational force receiving surface 150e (rotational force receiving member (portion)) may be disposed within the drive shaft receiving surface 150f. Or, the receiving surface 150e may be provided in the portion projected outward from the receiving surface 150f with respect to the direction of the axis L2. When the receiving surface 150e is disposed within the receiving surface 150f, the input portion 150k is disposed within the receiving surface 150f
More particularly, the inlet portion 150k is the recess provided between the projections 150d on the interior of the arc portion of the receiving surface 150f. Furthermore, when the receiving surface 150e is arranged in the outward projecting position, the input portion 150k is the osa ·
<img file="MX337559B_D0051.tif" />
ME'UCaNO INSTITUTE OF PRvHHSz'.D
INDUSTRIAL rebate positioned between the projections, 150¾¾. Here / e-1relow can be a through hole extended in the direction of axis L2, or it can be closed at one end thereof. More particularly, the recess is provided by the region of space provided between the projection 150d. And, what is necessary is precisely to be able to enter the bolt 182 in the region in the state where the cartridge B is mounted to the rotating member C.
These structures of the auxiliary portion apply
<td>way</td><td>similar to</td><td>modalities like</td><td>I know</td><td>will write</td><td>to</td>
<td colspan="2">continuation.</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td>
<td>On</td><td>Figure 6 (e)</td><td>, The surfaces</td><td>150h</td><td>and (150hl</td><td>or</td>
<td>150h2)</td><td>transmission of</td><td>rotational force</td><td>(the</td><td>portions</td><td>from</td>
rotational force transmission) are provided upstream, with respect to the counterclockwise direction (X2), of the aperture 150gl or 150g2. And, the rotational force is transmitted to the developing roller 110 from the coupling 150 via the convection sections 150hl or 150h2 that contact the pins 155al, 155a2. More particularly, the transmission surfaces 150hl or 150h2 push the lateral surface of the bolt 155. By this, the coupling 150 is rotated with the center thereof aligned with the axis L2. The transmission surface 150hl or 150h2 extends in the direction that intersects the rotational direction of the coupling 150.
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INSTITUTE .vñ '' 'J.
DE LA FROfr, tj<sub>there</sub> 'industrial ** ȣ
Similar to projection 150d7 · ea doccahlr, arrange transmission surfaces 150hl or 150h2 to each other on the same diametrically opposite circumference.
At the time of manufacturing the drum engaging member 150 with injection molding, the intermediate portion 150c can be thinned. This is because the coupling is manufactured so that the drive force receiving portion 150a, the drive portion 150b, and the intermediate portion 150c have a substantially uniform thickness. When the rigidity of the intermediate portion 150c is insufficient, therefore, it is possible to make the intermediate portion 150c thick so that the driven portion 150a, the driving portion 150b, and the intermediate portion 150c have the substantially equivalent thickness.
(6) Support member shape
The description will be made, referring to Figure 7, about a support member 157 (mounting member). Figure 7 (a) presents a perspective view, as viewed from one side of the drive shaft, and Figure 7 (b) presents a perspective view, as viewed from the side of the developing roller.
The support member 157 has the functions of holding the coupling 150 and positioning the cartridge B in the rotating member C. In addition, it has the function of supporting the
<img file="MX337559B_D0052.tif" />
IMF coupling 150 so that rotational force 'can be transmitted to developing roller 110.
More particularly, support member 157 mounts cartridge 150 to cartridge 150.
As shown in Figure 7, the support member includes a guide 140L2 during assembly and disassembly of the cartridge B with respect to a housing portion 130a provided for the rotating member C and a cylinder 14OLI to position the cartridge B in the portion. Accommodation 130a. And, the above-described coupling 150 is disposed in an interior space 157b of a cylinder portion 157c provided coaxially with the developing roller (not shown). On an inner peripheral surface 157i constituting space 157b, ribs 157el and 157e2 are provided to retain coupling 150 in cartridge B. Ribs 157el and 157e2 are provided opposite each other with respect to a direction X4 of movement of the cartridge. B (rotational direction of rotating member C). The support member 157 is provided with positioning portions 157dl and 157d2 for fixing to the frame 113 of the developing device and is provided with holes 157gl or 157g2 penetrating the set screw.
(6) Constitution of the coupling support with respect to the cartridge frame
Referring to Figure 8 - Figure 13, the description is
I.
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
<img file="MX337559B_D0053.tif" />
it will carry out with regard to the nonal position of the support (constitution of the assembly) of the developing roller 110 and the coupling 150 with respect to the frame 113 of the developing device (frame of the cartridge). Figure 8 presents an enlarged view, as seen from the drive side, of the main part around the developing roller of the cartridge. Figure 9 presents a sectional view taken along S4-S4 of Figure 8. Figure 10 presents a sectional view, taken along a development axis LI, illustrating the state before assembly of the coupling and the support member. Figure 11 presents a sectional view illustrating a state after assembly. Figure 12 presents a sectional view when the axis L2 of the coupling is aligned substantially coaxially with the axis LI of the developing roller. Figure 13 presents a sectional view illustrating a state after rotating the coupling 90 degrees from the state of Figure 12. Figure 14 presents a perspective view illustrating the combined state of the roller shaft development and coupling. Figure 14 (bl) - (b5) presents perspective views, and Figure 14 (al) - (a5) presents views as viewed from the direction of the axis Ll.
As shown in Figure 14, the coupling 150 is mounted so that the axis L2 thereof can be inclined in any direction relative to the axis Ll of the axis 153 of the coupling.
<img file="MX337559B_D0054.tif" />
INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA PROPIEDAD INDUSTRIAL developing roller (developing roller).
In Figure 14 (al) and Figure 14 (bl), axis L2 of coupling 150 is co-axial with axis L1 of developing roller 153. The state when the coupling 150 is tilted upward from this state is illustrated in Figure 14 (a2) and Figure 14 (b2). As shown in these figures, when the axis L2 is tilted towards the side of the opening 150g, the bolt moves within the opening 150g when these members are viewed relatively on the base of the coupling. As a result, the coupling 150 is inclined about an axis AX (Figure 12 (a2)) perpendicular to the opening 150a.
In Figure 14 (b3), the state is shown where the coupling 150 is tilted to the right. As shown in this Figure, when the axis L2 is tilted in the orthogonality direction of the aperture 150g, the bolt is rotated within the aperture 150g when these members are viewed relatively on the basis of the coupling. The axis of rotation is axis AY (Figure 14 (a3)) of drive bolt 155.
The states where the coupling 150 slopes downward and to the left are shown in Figures 14 (a4) and (b4) and Figures 14 (a5) and (b5), respectively. Coupling 150 leans on each of the axes AX and
OH.
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INSTITUTO MEXICANO DPI.A PROPERTY
<img file="MX337559B_D0055.tif" />
In the different directions from the tilt direction described above, for example, in an intermediate position in the tilt direction in Figures 14 (a2) and 14 (a3), and in each of the intermediate positions in the directions inclination in Figures 14 (a3) and 14 (a4) and Figure 14 (a5) and 14 (a2), the inclination is done by combining the rotations in the directions of the rotational axes AX and AY. In this way, the L2 axis can
<td>move from</td><td colspan="2">pivoting way</td><td colspan="2">in any</td><td>direction</td><td>with</td>
<td>relation to</td><td>axis</td><td>Ll. In this</td><td>moment,</td><td>the</td><td>bolt 155</td><td>I know</td>
<td>provides</td><td>to the</td><td>axis 153 of</td><td>roller</td><td>from</td><td>revealed.</td><td>More</td>
<td colspan="2">particularly,</td><td>bolt 155 se</td><td>projects</td><td>since</td><td colspan="2">a surface</td>
<td>peripheral</td><td>of</td><td>axis 153 of</td><td>roller</td><td>from</td><td>revealed.</td><td>The</td>
Coupling 150 disposed opposite to bolt 155 is provided with aperture 150g. An aperture size 150g is set so that the bolt does not interfere with the bolt when the L2 axis is tilted relative to the Ll axis.
More particularly, the transmission surface 150h (rotational force transmitting portion) is movable relative to the bolt 155 (rotational force receiving portion) (Figure 14). Bolt 155 has transmission surface 150 in the movable condition. And, the transmission surface 150h and the bolt 155 mesh with each other in the rotational direction of the coupling 150. In addition, the clearance is provided between the surface 150h of
IMPI »
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL transmission and bolt 155. By this, the<sup>;</sup> Coupling 150 is movable (pivotally, oscillatingly) in substantially all directions relative to axis Ll.
It has been mentioned that the L2 axis can be skewed or tilted in any direction relative to the Ll axis. However, the L2 axis does not necessarily need to be able to skew linearly to the predetermined angle over the full range of the 360 degree direction at the coupling 150. For example, the aperture 150g may be selected to be slightly wider in the circumferential direction. By doing this, when the L2 axis is tilted relative to the Ll axis, even if it is the case where it cannot be tilted at the predetermined angle in a linear manner, the coupling 150 can rotate a slight degree about the L2 axis. Accordingly, it can be tilted at the predetermined angle. In other words, the amount of play in the rotational direction of the opening 150g is appropriately selected if necessary.
In this manner, the coupling 150 is rotatable or oscillating substantially over the entire circumference relative to the axis Ll of the developing roller 110. More particularly, the coupling 150 is capable of pivotal movement over substantially the entire circumference thereof relative to the axis 153 of the drum.
Also, as will be understood from the explanation
<img file="MX337559B_D0056.tif" />
INSTITUTO MEXICANO «D £ LA PROPERTY INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0057.tif" />
Circumferential torsional vibration of the vortex is not a rotated above, the coupling 150 is capable of in and substantially about the axis 153 direction of the drum. Here, the movement movement with which the coupling itself the axis L2, but rather the inclined axis L2 is rotated about the axis LI of the developing roller, although the torsional vibration here does not exclude the rotation of the coupling per se about the axis L2 of the coupling. 150.
It has been mentioned that the L2 axis can be skewed or tilted in any direction relative to the Ll axis. However, the L2 axis does not necessarily need to be able to skew linearly to the predetermined angle over the full range of the 360 degree direction at the coupling 150. For example, the aperture 150g may be selected to be slightly wider in the circumferential direction. By doing this, when the L2 axis is tilted relative to the Ll axis, even if it is the case where it cannot be tilted at the predetermined angle in a linear manner, the coupling 150 can rotate a slight degree about the L2 axis. Accordingly, it can be tilted at the predetermined angle. In other words, the amount of play in the rotational direction of the opening 150g is appropriately selected if necessary, in this way, the coupling 150 is rotatable or oscillating substantially over the entire circumference relative to the axis 153 of the
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<img file="MX337559B_D0058.tif" />
Μi-XICANO INSTITUTE. ,.
DB THE PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL drum (rotational force receiving member ·.)
More particularly, the coupling 150 is capable of pivotal movement over substantially the entire circumference thereof relative to the axis 153 of the drum, furthermore and as will be understood from the foregoing explanation, the coupling 150 is capable of torsional vibration in and substantially about the circumferential direction of the drum axis 153. Here, the vortex motion is not a motion by which the coupling itself is rotated around the axis
L2, otherwise the inclined axis L2 is rotated about the axis Ll of the photosensitive drum, although the torsional vibration here does not preclude the rotation of the coupling per se about the axis L2 of the coupling 150.
Furthermore, the movable range in substantially all directions is the range in which when the user mounts the cartridge B to the main assembly A of the apparatus, the coupling can move to the rotational force transmission angular position regardless of the axis phase. impeller having the rotational force application portion. Furthermore, it is the range in which, in disengagement of the drive shaft coupling, the coupling can move to the angular position of disengagement regardless of the phase of the drive shaft stop angle.
In addition, the coupling is provided with a gap between the rotational force transmission portion i ivi ri instituto méxicano
OF THE PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL - (rotational force transmitting surface 150h, for example), and the rotational force transmitting portion and the rotational force receiving portion (155 bolt, for example) to mesh, so that it is able to have movement pivoting in substantially all directions relative to axis Ll. In this way, the coupling is mounted to the end of cartridge B. For this reason, the coupling can move substantially in all directions relative to the axis Ll.
This structure is similar in the modalities of the coupling as will be described below.
The assembly processes will be described.
After the developing roller 110 is rotatably mounted to the developing frame 113, the bolt 155 is mounted to the developing shaft 153. Subsequently, the developing gear 145 is mounted to the developing shaft 153.
Subsequently, as shown in Figure 10, the coupling 150 and the support member 157 are inserted in the X3 direction. First, the drive portion 150b is inserted towards the downstream direction X3, keeping the axis L2 of the coupling 150 in parallel with X3. At this time, the phase of the bolt 155 of the developing shaft 153 and the phase of the aperture 150g of the coupling 150 are engaged with each other, and the bolt 155 is inserted into the apertures 150gl or 150g2. And, the free end portion 153b of the developing shaft 153 is made
<img file="MX337559B_D0059.tif" />
abutting the receiving surface 150i of the coupling 150. The free end portion 153b of the developing shaft 153 is the spherical surface and the receiving surface 150i of the coupling 150 is a conical surface. Accordingly, the side of the drive portion 150b of the coupling 150 is positioned at the center (the center of the spherical surface) of the free end portion 153b of the developing shaft 153. As will be described below, when the coupling 150 is rotated by transmission of the driving force (rotational force) from the main assembly A of the apparatus, the bolt 155 positioned in the opening 150g will contact the surfaces 150hl or 150h2 and ( Figure 6b) of rotational force transmission. By this, the rotational force can be transmitted. Subsequently, a 157w of the end of the surfaces of the support member 157 is inserted downstream with respect to the X3 direction. By this, a part of the coupling 150 is received in the space portion 157b of the support member 157. And, the support member 157 is fixed in the developing frame 113, thus, an integral developing cartridge B is established.
The dimensions of the various portions of the coupling 150 will be described. As shown in Figure 10 (c), a maximum outside diameter of the driven portion 150a of the coupling 150 is ÜD2, a maximum outside diameter of the drive portion 150b is DD1 , and a small diameter of the
<img file="MX337559B_D0060.tif" />
<img file="MX337559B_D0061.tif" />
150g opening is DD3. Furthermore, a maxiron HpL bolt outside diameter 155 is DD5, and an inside diameter of the retaining rib 157e of the support member 157 is QD4. Here, the maximum outside diameter is the outside diameter of a site of maximum rotation about the rotational axis LI of the developing roller 110. The maximum outside diameters QDl, and DD3 referring to coupling 150, are the outside diameter of the site of maximum rotation about the L2 axis. At this time, taking into account that DD5 <DD3 is satisfied, the coupling 150 can be mounted to the predetermined position by direct mounting operation in the X3 direction, therefore, the mounting property is high. The diameter of the inner surface DD4 of the retaining rib 157e of the support member 157 is greater than QD2 of the coupling 150, and less than DD1 (DD2 <DD4 <OD1). By this, only the step linked to the straight X3 direction is sufficient to mount the support member 157 to the predetermined position. For this reason, the mounting property can be improved (the state after mounting is shown in Figure 11).
As shown in Figure 11, the retaining rib 157e of the support member 157 is disposed closely to a flange portion 150j of the coupling 150 in the direction of the axis LI '. More specifically, in the direction of the Ll axis, the distance from an extreme surface 150jl of
<img file="MX337559B_D0062.tif" />
<img file="MX337559B_D0063.tif" />
the flange portion 150j to the axis of the bolt 155 ni Further, the distance from one end surface 157 of the rib 157e to the other end surface 157j2 of the flange portion 150j is n2. It is satisfied that the distance n2 <distance ni.
Furthermore, with respect to the direction perpendicular to the axis Ll, the flange portion 150j and the ribs 157el, 157e2 are arranged to overlap each other. More specifically, the distance n4 (overlap amount) from the inner surface 157e3 of the rib 157e to the outer surface 150j3 of the flange portion 150j is the overlap amount n4 with respect to the orthogonality direction of the axis Ll.
By such configurations, bolt 155 is prevented from disengaging from aperture 150g. That is, the movement of the coupling 150 is limited by the support member 157. In this manner, the coupling 150 does not disengage from the cartridge. Disengagement prevention can be accomplished without additional parts. The dimensions described above are desirable from the point of view of reducing manufacturing and assembly costs. However, the present invention is not limited to these dimensions.
As described above in Figure 9, 11 and 12, the receiving surface 150i which is the recess 150q of the coupling 150 is in contact with the surface 153b
INSTITUTE i DE LA;
1 'D' I i'A
i)
<img file="MX337559B_D0064.tif" />
free end of the development axis 153 which is the projection. Consequently, the coupling 150 is oscillated along the free end portion 153b (the spherical surface) about the center P2 of the free end portion 153b (the spherical surface), in other words, the axis L2 can move substantially in all directions regardless of the phase of the drum axis 153. The axis L2 of the coupling 150 is movable (pivotally, rotatable, movable) in substantially all directions. As will be described below, in order for the coupling 150 to be able to mesh with the drive shaft 180, the shaft L2 is inclined downstream with respect to the direction of rotation of the rotary member C relative to the axis Ll, just before meshing. In other words, as shown in Figure 17, the axis L2 is tilted so that the driven portion 150a of the coupling 150 is positioned on the downstream side with respect to the rotational direction X4 of the rotating member.
The description will be made even more detailed.
As shown in Figure 12, a distance n3 between a portion of the maximum outside diameter and the support member 157 of the drive portion 150b of the coupling 150 is selected so as to provide a slight gap between them. By this, the coupling 150 is able to stop pivoting movement.
As shown in Figure 7, ribs 157el and
Jí.'S JL. .9 .. Hee. INSTITUTO A5EXJCANO DE Lz '. INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
<img file="MX337559B_D0065.tif" />
157e2 are semi-circular ribs that run parallel to the Ll axis. Ribs 157el and 157e2 are perpendicular to the X4 rotational direction.
Furthermore, a distance n2 (Figure 11) in the direction of the axis Ll from the rib 157e to the flange portion 150j is less than a distance n from the center of the bolt 155 to the edge of the side of the drive portion 150b. By this, the bolt 155 does not disengage from the openings 150gl and 150gl. Consequently, as shown in Figure 9, the driven portion 150a is largely capable of pivotal movement in the X4 direction relative to the axis L2 of the coupling 150. In other words, the drive portion 150b is largely capable of pivotal movement to the side not provided with rib 150e (perpendicular to the drawing sheet). Figure 9 illustrates the state after the L2 axis is tilted. Furthermore, the coupling 150 can also be moved to the state substantially parallel to the axis Ll as shown in Figure 12 from the state of the inclined axis L2 as shown in Figure 9. In this way, the ribs 157el and 157e2 are arranged. By doing this, the axis L2 of the coupling 150 can be made capable of pivotal movement relative to the axis Ll, and furthermore, the developing frame 113 can be prevented from disengaging or disengaging from the coupling 150. Both of the effects can be provided.
<img file="MX337559B_D0066.tif" />
INSTITUTE Mr'XÍCANO DE LA PK0PIEDA9
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0067.tif" />
Coupling 150 has clearance (distance n2) in the direction of axis L1 relative to development axis 153. Consequently, the receiving surface 150i (the conical surface) may not always comfortably contact the free end portion 153b of the drum shaft (the spherical surface). In other words, the center of the pivot can deviate from the center of the curvature P2 of the spherical surface. However, even in such a case, the axis L2 is rotary or capable of pivotal movement relative to the axis Ll. For this reason the purpose of this modality can be achieved.
Furthermore, the maximum possible angle a of inclination (Figure 9) between the axis Ll and the axis L2, is limited to one half of the angle (al, Figure 6 (f)) of narrowing between the axis L2 and the receiving surface 150i. The angle of the apex of the conical shape of the receiving surface 150i of the coupling 150 can be appropriately selected. By doing this, the angle a4 of inclination of the coupling 150 is set to the optimum value. The shape of the column portion 153a of the developing shaft 153 may be simply cylindrical. By this, manufacturing costs can be saved.
The width of the aperture 150g in the standby state is selected so that the bolt 155 cannot interfere when the axis L2 is tilted, as described hereinabove.
The location of the flange portion 150j when the side of the driven portion 150a is tilted in the X5 direction, is
SAW
TO.
Figure 13. As shown in
INSTITUTO MEXICA NO De L ?. FRO? IEQ. '. N
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0068.tif" />
tips coupling 150, not pi nprno 155. v nnr nonsimijfinte.
illustrated by region TI in the Figure, even if interference occurs with the flange portion 150j it may be provided over the entire circumference of the coupling 150 (Figure 6 (b)). In other words, the shaft receiving surface 150i is conical in shape, and consequently, when the coupling 150 is tilted, the bolt 155 does not enter the TI region. For this reason, the coupling 150 shear range is minimized. Accordingly, the rigidity of the coupling 150 can be ensured.
(7) Description of the constitution of the rotating member (movable member, rotation selection mechanism) of the main assembly of the apparatus
Next, with reference to Figures 15 to 21, a constitution of the rotating member C as the movable member will be described. Figures 15 and 16 present perspective views of the rotating member C in a state in which the developing cartridge B is not mounted. Figure 17A presents a perspective view showing a state in which a single developing cartridge B is mounted to the rotating member C.
Figures 18 to 21 are side views showing rotary member C, photosensitive drum 107, a drive train, and developer cartridge B.
In the direction of the axial line L1, the flanges 50L and
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROHEDAD
<img file="MX337559B_D0069.tif" />
Rotary 50Rs are provided on both end portions. Outside of the rotary flanges 50L and 50R in the direction of the axial line Ll, rotary side plates 54L and 54R are provided, respectively. The rotatable flanges 50L and 50R and a central axis 51 thereof are rotatably supported by the side plates 54L and 54R located further away in the direction of the axial line Ll.
On the opposite surfaces 50Lb and 50Rb of the pair of flanges 50L and 50R, guides 130L1, 130L2, 130L3, 130L4, 130R1, 130R2, 130R3, and 130R4 of the main mount are provided as notches used during assembly and disassembly of cartridge B with respect to to the rotating member C (housing portion 130a). Along these main mount guides provided for apparatus main mount A, guides 140R1, 140R2, 140L1, and 140L2 are inserted from the cartridge side (Figures 2 and 3) of cartridge B. That is, cartridge B is inserted. mountable to and removable from rotary member C. Cartridge B is removably mounted to rotary member C by the user.
More specifically, at one end of the cartridge B (Bl) with respect to a longitudinal direction of the cartridge B (Bl), guides 140R1 and 140R2 are provided. Furthermore, at the other longitudinal end of cartridge B (Bl), guides 140L1 and 140L2 are provided. The user holds the cartridge B and inserts the guides 140R1 and 140R2 in the guide 130R1 provided for the institute μ? ;; CE LA ίΨΟίlisüU '
<img file="MX337559B_D0070.tif" />
rotary member C. Similarly, the user inserts guides 140L1 and 140L2 into guide 130L1 provided for rotary member C. In this manner, cartridge B is removably mounted to housing portion 130a provided for rotary member. C by the user. That is, the cartridge B is guided by the guides described above and is mounted to and removed from the housing portion 130a with respect to a direction that crosses the longitudinal direction of the cartridge B (developing roller 110). The cartridge B is mounted in a direction in which the longitudinal direction intersects a rotational direction X4 of the rotating member C. Accordingly, the cartridge B (coupling) provided at a longitudinal end of the cartridge B moves in a direction substantially perpendicular to the drive axis 180 by the rotation of the rotary member C. The cartridge B mounted to the rotary member C is prone to rotate about the guides 140R1 and 14OLI bow when a rotational force is transmitted from the main assembly A of the apparatus to the cartridge B. However, elongated guides 140R2 and 140L2 contact the interior surfaces of the notches in guides 130R1 and 130L1, so that cartridge B is positioned relative to rotating member C. That is, cartridge B is removably housed in the housing portion 130a.
Similarly, cartridge Β (B2) is guided by guides 130R2 and 130L2 provided for rotating member C
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INSTITUTO MEXICANO DELA PROr'Íu.z'AD INDUSTRIAL and is removably mounted to housing portion 130A. Cartridge Β (B3) is guided by guides 130R3 and 130L3 provided for rotating member C and removably mounted to housing portion 130a. Cartridge Β (B4) is guided by guides 130R4 and 130L4 provided for rotating member C and removably mounted to housing portion 130a.
That is, the cartridge B is removably housed by the user in the housing portion 130a provided for the rotary member C.
Figure 17 shows a state in which the developing cartridge B is mounted in the main assembly 4 of the apparatus (rotating member C).
Each of the developing cartridges B is positioned relative to the rotary member C and is rotated by the rotation of the rotary member C. At this time, the cartridge
Developing B is attached to rotating member C by a bias spring, latch, or the like (not shown) so that a position of the developing cartridge B is not deflected by rotation of rotating member C.
To the other rotating side plate 54L, a drive mechanism is provided to rotate the developing roller (not shown). That is, a developing device drive gear 181 meshes with a pinion 65 fixed to a motor shaft of motor 64. When the motor starts rotation,
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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
<img file="MX337559B_D0071.tif" />
transmits to gear 181. Shaft coaxial with gear
As a result, the force of a rotational force is
180 disposed impulse
181 starts the rotation.
Rotation of the drive shaft 180 is transmitted to the developing roller 110 and the like through the coupling 150. Incidentally, in this embodiment, the drive shaft 180 has started rotation before the engagement of the coupling 150. However, the timing of the start of the rotation of the drive shaft 180 can be appropriately selected.
Cartridge B is rotated in conjunction with the pair of rotating flanges 50L and 50R. That is, the rotary member C stops its rotation when it is rotated a predetermined angle. As a result, the cartridge B is positioned at a position (developing position) opposite the photosensitive drum 107 provided for the main assembly A of the apparatus. Coupling 150 engages drive shaft 180 substantially simultaneously with positioning and stopping of cartridge B. That is, a recess 1502 covers one end of an end portion 180b of the drive shaft 180.
The drive shaft 180 has substantially the same constitution as the developing shaft described above. That is, the drive shaft 180 includes a spherical end portion 180b and a bolt 182 that penetrates a near center of a main portion 180a of its cylindrical shape. By means of this bolt 182, a rotational force (driving force)
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INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA PROPERTY INDUSTRIAL is transmitted to cartridge B through coupling 150.
To the rotating member C, the four color cartridges B are mounted. Here, the pressure application of the cartridges B to the photosensitive drum 107 is performed in the following manner.
As described above, flanges 50L and 50R are rotatably supported by rotating side plates 54L and 54R. The rotatable side plates 54L and 54R at both ends are positioned and attached to side plates (not shown) of the main A-mount of the apparatus through an oscillating shaft 60 rotatably disposed on the rotatable side plates 54L and 54R. In other words, the cartridge B, the rotary flanges 50, and the rotary side plates 54 are integrally oscillating about the oscillating axis 60. That is, the integral oscillating movement of the cartridge B and the rotating member C is performed. As a result, the cartridge B is pressed against or separated from the photosensitive drum 107.
This pressing and separating operation is performed by pressing a rotating strut 66 disposed between the rotating side plates 54L and 54R by rotating a cam (not shown).
Furthermore, as described with reference to Figure 15, the drive shaft 180 is positioned and mounted in a predetermined position of the main A mount of the apparatus with respect to a radial direction and an axial direction.
<img file="MX337559B_D0072.tif" />
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Mexican INSTITUTE OE LA PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL
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substantially. Furthermore, the cartridge B also gp nm =! I. operates in a predetermined position of the main assembly A of the apparatus by stopping the rotation of the rotating member C. This drive shaft 180 and cartridge B positioned, are connected by the coupling 150 Coupling 150 is oscillating (capable of pivotal, movable motion) with respect to cartridge B (frame). Consequently, even between the drive shaft 180 positioned at the predetermined position and the cartridge B positioned at the predetermined position, the coupling 150 is able to transmit the rotational force smoothly. That is, even when there is some axis deviation between the drive shaft 180 and the cartridge 150, the coupling 150 can smoothly transmit the rotational force.
This is one of the salient effects of the coupling mode to which the present invention is applied.
(8) Switching constitution of developing cartridge (developing device)
On each of the outer peripheral surfaces of the flanges 50L and 50R, a gear 50a is integrally provided as shown in Figures 15 to 17. A pair of idler gears 59L and 59R meshed with these gears 50a, it is arranged in both longitudinal end portions. These guide pulley gears 59L and 59R are connected by oscillating shaft 60. When the
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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY íá ^<sup>5</sup>*·’·'
<img file="MX337559B_D0074.tif" />
flange 50L arranged at one of the longitudinal ends, the other flange 50R is rotated in phase through gears 59L and 59R. Employing such a drive constitution, during rotation of the rotary member C or the rotation of the developing roller 110, twisting of either flange 50L and 50R is prevented.
With the gears 59L and 59R connected to the center of oscillation of the rotating side plates 54L and 54R, that is, the oscillating shaft 60, a rotary drive gear 65 is engaged. This gear 65 is connected to motor 61. An encoder 62 is mounted to a shaft of rotation of motor 61.
Encoder 62 detects an amount of rotation of the motor and controls the number of the rotation. In addition, on an outer peripheral surface of a flange 50L, there is provided a flag 57 projected from the flange 50L in a radial direction (Figure 16). The flange 50L and the flag 57 are rotated in order to pass through a photo switch 58 fixed to the side plate 58. By detecting the blocking of the photo switch with the flag 57, the rotating member C is controlled to rotate each predetermined angle. That is, after the rotary member C is rotated a predetermined angle from the time when the flag 57 or flag locks the photo switch, the first developing cartridge stops at a position opposite the photosensitive drum 107. Member i ivjl ri
INSTITUTO MEXICANO '¡^' «ssá'SíO, '; DK LA PROKKDAD c% ae? 3 ».
Rotary INDUSTRIAL C is further rotated a predetermined angle in one direction and subsequently the second developing cartridge is stopped at a position opposite the photosensitive drum 107. By repeating this operation four times in total (all four color development cartridge stops), a color image is formed.
That is, the cartridge B is moved in a direction perpendicular to the axial line L3 of the drive shaft 180 by rotating the rotary member C in a direction in a state in which the cartridge B is mounted to the rotary member C.
On an upper surface of the main assembly A of the apparatus, an opening for mounting and dismounting the user developing cartridge B and an openable / closable cover 40 (Figure 4) are provided to cover the opening. In addition, a door switch (not shown) is provided to detect the opening / closing of the cover 40. A rotating operation of the rotary member C is initiated during electrical ignition and when the cover 40 is closed (when the door switch is turned on).
(9) Constitution of the positioning of the developing cartridge (developing device) during the switching operation
The operations of the rotating member C and the cartridge B will be described step by step with reference to Figures 18 to
twenty-one. For ease of description, only one
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0075.tif" />
cartridge in the rotating member.
First, in a state shown in Figure 18, the cartridge B does not reach a predetermined position (the coupling member 150 is located in an angular position of pre-rotation). When the rotating member C is rotated in a direction of X4, the flag 57 partially projected from the outer peripheral surface of the rotating rim 50 described above, reaches the photo-switch 58, so that the rotating member C stops at a predetermined position. (a state shown in Figure 19). At this time, the drive shaft 180 and the coupling 150 of the cartridge B are connected to each other (the coupling member 150 is located in a rotational force transmission angular position). The developing roller 110 is placed in a rotating state. In this mode, the axis
180 The drive shaft has already been rotated in a state in which the coupling 150 initiates engagement with the drive shaft 180. For this reason, the developing roller 110 is rotated. However, in the case where the drive shaft 180 stops in a state in which the coupling 150 meshes with the drive shaft 180, the coupling 150 waits in the rotating state. The engagement (connection) of the coupling 150 with the drive shaft 180 will be described later in detail.
Then, as described above, the cam (not
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shown) is actuated to contact the rotary strut 66, so that the rotary member C moves counterclockwise on the oscillating axis 60. That is, the developing roller 110 contacts the photosensitive drum 107 by being moved in a direction XI (a state of Figure 20). Subsequently, a predetermined imaging operation is performed.
When the imaging operation is completed , the rotating member C is rotated in a clockwise direction about the oscillating axis 60 by a force of a spring (not shown). In this manner, the rotary member C is restored to the state shown in Figure 19. That is, the developing roller 110 moves away from the photosensitive drum 107 (the engagement member 150 is located in an angular position of disengagement or disengagement).
Subsequently, the rotary member C is rotated about the central axis 51 in the direction X4, so that a subsequent cartridge B can reach the developing position (a state of Figure 21). At this time, the connection between the drive shaft 180 and the coupling 150 is released. That is, the coupling 150 is disconnected from the drive shaft 180. The operation at this time will be specifically described later.
The operations described above from the
<img file="MX337559B_D0077.tif" />
The operation described with reference to Figure 18 to the operation described with reference to Figure 21 are repeated four times in total for the four colors, so that the formation of the color image is effected.
(10) Gear operation / Rotational force transmission / Disengagement operation, of the coupling.
As described above, immediately before cartridge B stops at the predetermined position of main assembly A of the apparatus, or substantially simultaneously therewith, coupling 150 engages drive shaft 180. (From Figure 18 to Figure 19). And, when the cartridge B is moved from the predetermined position of the main assembly of the apparatus after rotation for the predetermined period, the coupling 150 disengages from the drive shaft 180 (from Figure 20 to Figure 21).
Referring to Figure 22- Figure 25, the description will be made with respect to the gear operation, the rotational force transmission operation and the coupling disengagement operation. Figure 22 presents a longitudinal sectional view illustrating the drive shaft, the coupling, and the developing shaft. Figure 23 presents a longitudinal sectional view illustrating the phase difference between the drive shaft, the coupling, and the developing shaft. Figure 25 presents a sectional view
<img file="MX337559B_D0078.tif" />
INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY Longitudinal illustrating the drive shaft, coupling, and development shaft.
In the process in which the cartridge B is moved to the developing position by the rotation of the rotary member C, the coupling 150 is positioned in the angular position of pre-engagement. More particularly, the axis L2 of the coupling is inclined in advance relative to the axis Ll of the developing axis 153, so that the driven portion 150a is positioned downstream of the rotational direction X4 of the rotating member. By this inclination of the coupling 150, a free end position 150A1 downstream of the rotary member C with respect to the rotational direction X4 thereof is positioned on the side of the developing shaft 153 beyond a free end 180b3 of the drive shaft with respect to the direction of the Ll axis. In addition, a free end position 150A2 upstream with respect to direction X4, is positioned on the side of bolt 182 beyond the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft in the direction of the Ll axis (Figure 22 (a), (b)) . Here, the free end position is the position closest to the drive shaft with respect to the direction of axis L2 of the driven portion 150a of the coupling 150 shown in Figure 6 (a) and (c), and is the most distant position from the drive shaft. axis L2. In other words, it is a contour line of the portion
150a of the coupling 150, or a contour line of the projection 150d actuated depending on the phase of the
<img file="MX337559B_D0079.tif" />
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INSTITUTO MíZ; Cz?; O DE LA ΡΕΟΜΕ? / O INDUSTRIAL coupling rotation (150A in Figure 6 — fra-fr — y (o)).
First, the free end position 150A1 downstream with respect to the rotational direction (X4) of the rotating member passes through the free end 180b3 of the shaft. And, after the coupling 150 passes the drive shaft 180, the receiving surface 150f or the tapered projection 150d of the coupling 150 contacts the free end portion 180b or bolt 182 of the drive shaft 180. And, it is tilted in response to the rotation of the rotating member C so that the axis L2 becomes parallel to the axis Ll (Figure 22 (c)). And finally, the position of the cartridge B is determined relative to the main assembly A of the apparatus. More particularly, the rotary member C stops. Under the present circumstances, the drive shaft 180 and the development shaft 153 are substantially coaxial with each other. More particularly, the coupling 150 is moved from the pre-engagement angular position to the rotational force transmitting angular position in order to allow the free end position 150A1 thereof to circumvent the drive shaft 180 (pivot and oscillation). And, the coupling 150 tilts from the pre-engagement angular position toward the rotational force transmitting angular position where axis L2 is substantially co-axial with axis Ll. And, coupling 150 and drive shaft 180 mesh with each other (Figure 22 (d)).
More particularly, recess 150z covers portion 180b
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INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA PROPERTY INDUSTRIAL rotational force is enabled
<img file="MX337559B_D0080.tif" />
stable drive shaft 180 at this time, the Derno 152 is extreme free. By this, to be transmitted in a coupling manner 150. Also, at the opening 150g (Figure 6 (b)), and the bolt 182 is at the input portion 150k.
In this embodiment, when coupling 150 initiates engagement with drive shaft 180, drive shaft 180 is already rotating. For this reason, the coupling 150 begins rotation immediately. However, when the drive shaft 180 is at rest at the time of engagement with the drive shaft 180 of the coupling 150, the coupling member 150 waits in the rotatable state, when the bolt 182 is present in the input portion 150k.
As described hereinabove, according to this embodiment, coupling 150 is capable of pivotal movement relative to axis Ll. Accordingly, the coupling 150 can be meshed relative to the drive shaft 180 in a manner corresponding to the rotation of the rotating member C by the coupling 150 per se inclination, without interfering with the drive shaft 180 (coupling).
Furthermore, the meshing operation of the coupling 150 described above is possible regardless of the phase difference between the drive shaft 180 and the coupling 150. Referring to Figure 14 and Figure 23, the description will be made with regard to the difference of
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INSTíTUTG MfΛ.ΝΩ CE LA INDUSTRIAl.
<img file="MX337559B_D0081.tif" />
phase between coupling and drive shaft. Figure 23 illustrates the coupling and drive shaft phases. In Figure 23 (a), bolt 182 and drive shaft receiving surface 150f of coupling 150 oppose each other upstream relative to the rotational direction X4 of the rotating member. In Figure 23 (b), bolt 182 and projection 150d of coupling 150 are opposed to each other. In Figure 23 (c), the free end portion 180b of the drive shaft and the projection 150d of the coupling 150 are opposed to each other. In Figure 23 (d), the free end portion 180b and the coupling receiving surface 150f are opposed to each other. As shown in Figure 14, the coupling 150 is pivotally mounted in all directions relative to the development axis 153. For this reason, as shown in Figure 23, the coupling 150 is capable of pivotal movement in the mounting direction X4 without distinction of the phase of the developing axis 153 relative to the rotational direction X4. Furthermore, the downstream free end position 150A1 is positioned on the side of the developing roller 110 from the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft, in the unrelated rotational direction, without distinction of the phase difference between the drive shaft 180 and the coupling. 150. Furthermore, the angle of inclination of the coupling 150 is set so that the upstream free end position 150A2 is positioned on the i ivi side. .iir „institute ms /: ó '.'<sub>;</sub>\ o, -A'Fí & Jfí
MOUNTING »bolt 182 past the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft in the X4 rotational direction. With such a configuration, the downstream free end position 150A1 in the rotational direction X4 passes through the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft in response to the rotating operation of the rotating member C. And, in the case of Figure 23 (a) , the drive shaft receiving surface 150f contacts the bolt 182. In the case of Figure 23 (b), the projection 150d contacts the bolt 182. In the case of Figure 23 (c), the projection 150d contacts the free end portion 180b. In the case of Figure 23 (d), the receiving surface 150f contacts the free end portion 180b. Furthermore, the axis L2 is approximated to the position in parallel with the axis Ll by the contact force (thrust force) produced when the rotating member C is rotated, and they mesh with each other (coupling). For this reason, regardless of the phase difference between the drive shaft 180 and the coupling 150 or between the coupling 150 and the developing shaft 153, they can mesh with each other.
Referring to FIG. 24, the rotational force transmission operation in the case of the rotation of the developing roller 110 will be described. The drive shaft 180 is rotated together with the gear 181 (helical gear) in the direction of X8 in the Figure by the rotational force received from the motor 64. And, the integral bolts 182 i
<img file="MX337559B_D0082.tif" />
with the drive shaft 180 they contact any of the rotational force receiving surfaces 150el-150e4 of the coupling 150. By this, the coupling 150 is rotated. The coupling 150 is further rotated. By this, the rotational force transmitting surface 150hl or 150h2 of the coupling 150 contacts the bolt 155 integral with the developing shaft 153. Subsequently, the rotational force of the drive shaft 18.0 rotates the developing roller 110 through the coupling 150 and the developing shaft 153.
Furthermore, the free end portion 153b of the developing shaft 153 contacts the receiving surface 150i. The free end portion 180b of the drive shaft 180 contacts the receiving surface 150f. By this, the coupling 150 is correctly positioned (Figure 22d). More particularly, coupling 150 is positioned to drive shaft 180 by recess 150z that covers free end portion 180. At this time, even if axis L3 and axis LI are to some degree non-coaxial with each other, coupling 150 can rotate without applying the large load to developing axis 153 and drive axis 180 by the small tilt of coupling 150. For this reason, even if the drive shaft 180 and the development shaft 153 deviate from each other by a slight deviation of the position of the cartridge B due to the rotation of the rotary member C, the coupling 150 can
<img file="MX337559B_D0083.tif" />
transmit the rotational force smoothly. This is one of the salient effects according to one embodiment of the coupling of the present invention.
Referring to Figure 25, the description will be made about the disengagement or disengagement operation of the coupling 150 from the drive shaft 180, in response to the movement of the cartridge B from the predetermined position (developing position), by the rotation of the rotary member C in the only direction.
First, the position of each of the bolts 182 at the time of movement of the cartridge (B) from the predetermined position will be described. After imaging is complete, as will be apparent from the above description, bolt 182 is positioned in any two of the input portions 150kl - 150k4 (Figure 6). And, bolt 155 is positioned in aperture 150gl or 150g2.
The description will be made with respect to the operation of disengaging the coupling 150 from the drive shaft 180 in relation to the operation of switching to the next developing cartridge B after the image forming operation using the cartridge is completed.
In the state where the rotation for the developing axis 153 has stopped, the axis L2 is substantially co-axial relative to the axis Ll in the coupling 150 (rotational force transmission angular position). Y, the developing axis 153
<img file="MX337559B_D0084.tif" />
INSTITUTO MEXICANA,, - - de ί. in contact with free end portion 180b of drive shaft 180 or bolt 182 (Figure 25a). And, the L2 axis begins to tilt upstream with respect to the rotational direction X4 (Figure 25 (b)). This direction of inclination is the opposite of that of the inclination of coupling 150 at the time of engagement of coupling 150 with drive shaft 180, with respect to development axis 153. It is moved, while the free end portion 150A2 upstream with respect to the rotational direction X4 is kept in contact with the free end portion 180b by the rotational operation of the rotating member C. And, on axis L2, the free upstream end portion 150A3 slopes to the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft (Figure 25 (c)). And, in this state, the coupling 150 passes through the drive shaft 180, coming into contact with the free end 180b3 (Figure 25 (d)).
In this way, the coupling 150 is moved from the rotational force transmission angular position to the angular position uncoupling, so that a part (upstream free end portion 150A2) of the coupling 150 positioned upstream of the drive shaft 180 with with respect to the X4 rotational direction allow
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INSTITUTE M; v<sub>;Spout </sub>Dt The INDUSTRIAL property
<img file="MX337559B_D0085.tif" />
circumvent drive shaft 180. Therefore, the cartridge
B is moved in accordance with the rotation of the rotary member C to the position shown in Figure 21. Also, before completing the full rotation of the rotary member C, the coupling 150 (the axis Ll) is inclined downstream with respect to to a rotational direction X4 by means not shown. In other words, the coupling 150 is moved from the angular position of disengagement to the angular position of pre-engagement. By this, after the rotary member C completes its full rotation, the coupling 150 is in the state that can be meshed with the drive shaft 180.
As will be apparent from the foregoing description, the angle of the pre-engagement angular position of the coupling 150 relative to the axis Ll is greater than the angle of the disengagement angular position. This is because it is preferable that the pre-engagement angular position is set in advance such that during the engagement engagement operation, the distance between the free end upstream to the position 150A1 with respect to the rotational direction X4 and the end 180b3 drive shaft clearance is relatively longer (Figure 22b). This is done in consideration of the dimensional tolerance of the parts. On the contrary, at the moment of disengagement of the coupling, the L2 axis is inclined in relation to the ^ SáS
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rotation of the position of the rotary member C. "Accordingly, the downstream free end portion 150A2 of the coupling 150A3 moves along the free end portion 180b3 of the drive shaft. In other words, the free end position 180A2 downstream with respect to the rotational direction X4 and the free end portion 180b3 are substantially aligned with each other in a direction of the axis L1 (Figure 25 (c)). Furthermore, when the coupling 150 is disengaged from the drive shaft 180, disengagement is possible without distinction of the phase difference between the coupling 150 and the bolt 182.
As shown in Figure 22, in the rotational force transmission angular position of the coupling 150, the angle relative to the axis L1 of the coupling 150 is such that in the state where the cartridge (B) is mounted to the predetermined position from the main assembly (A) of the apparatus (the position opposite the photosensitive drum), the coupling 150 receives the transmission of the rotational force from the drive shaft 180, and is rotated.
Also, the pre-engagement angular position of the coupling 150 is the angular position immediately before the coupling 150 is engaged with the drive shaft 180 in the process of mounting operation to the predetermined position according to the rotation of the rotating member C.
<img file="MX337559B_D0086.tif" />
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INSTITUTE Í.IE '.- ÍC,' Ññ DE LA FKOpiF;, aT <
INDVSTOjXl
Also, the angular position of disengagement axis doL. coupling 150 is the angular position relative to the axis Ll of the coupling 150 at the moment of disengagement or disengagement of the cartridge (B) from the drive shaft 180, in the process of moving the cartridge B from the predetermined position according to the rotation of the rotating member C.
In the pre-engagement angular position or in the disengaging angular position, the angles beta2 and beta3 that the L2 axis makes with the Ll axis are greater than the betal angle that the L2 axis makes with the Ll axis in the angular position. rotational force transmission. For angle theta 1, 0 degrees is preferable. However, in this embodiment, if the betal angle is less than about 15 degrees, smooth transmission of rotational force is achieved.
This is also one of the effects of this modality. For angles beta2 and beta3, the range of about 20-60 degrees is preferable.
As described hereinbefore, the coupling is pivotally mounted to the shaft Ll. And, the coupling 150 tilts in accordance with the rotation of the rotating member C without interfering with the drive shaft.
Here, according to the above-described embodiment of the present invention, even if the cartridge B (roller
110 development) moves in response to the movement of the i *
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IND-uh. «Λ, ί rotating member C in a direction that is * euBt.anci.alro.entc..perpendicular to the direction of the axis L3 of the driving shaft 180, the drum coupling member 150 can achieve the coupling (gear) and the disengagement relative to drive shaft 180. This is because the drum engaging member 150 according to one embodiment of the present invention can take the rotational force transmission angular position, the pre-engagement angular position, and the disengaging angular position.
Here, as described hereinabove, the rotational force transmission angular position is the angular position of the drum engaging member 150 for transmitting the rotational force to rotate the roller.
110 developing roller 110.
The pre-engagement angular position is the inclined position from the rotational force transmission angular position, and that is the angular position of the drum engaging member 150 before the drum engaging member 150 meshes with the engaging portion. rotational force.
The disengagement angular position is the position that is tilted away from the pre-engagement angular position from the rotational force transmission angular position and which is the angular position of the drum coupling member 150 so that the drum coupling member 150 drum is
<img file="MX337559B_D0087.tif" />
disengage from drive shaft 180.
In the above-described description, upon disengagement, the upstream receiving surface 150f or the upstream projection 150d, contacts the free end portion 180b of the drive shaft 180 in interaction with the rotation of the rotary member C. described that the L2 axis is inclined upstream in the rotational direction X4. However, in this mode, this is not inevitable. For example, a toggle spring (elastic material) is provided adjacent the rotary fulcrum of the coupling. And, the structure is such that upon engagement of the coupling, the thrust force is produced downstream in the rotational direction X4 relative to the coupling. At the moment of disengagement of the coupling, corresponding to the rotation of the rotary member C, the thrust force is produced upstream in the rotational direction X4 towards the coupling contrary to the case of the gear by the function of this rocker spring. Consequently, upon disengagement of the coupling, the upstream receiving surface 150f or projection 150d in the rotational direction X4, and the free end portion 180b of the drive shaft 180 are not contacted with each other, and the coupling is disengaged from the drive shaft. . In other words, as long as the axis L2 of the coupling 150 is inclined
<img file="MX337559B_D0088.tif" />
INDIOVXIAL PROPERTY INSTITUTE MEXJC / \ Sífj in response to the rotation of the rotating member C, any means may be used. Also, by the time immediately before the coupling 150 meshes with the drive shaft 180, the coupling is tilted so that the driven portion 150a of the coupling faces downstream in the rotational direction X4. In other words, the coupling is placed in the state of the pre-engagement angular position beforehand. For this purpose, any medium can be used in Mode 2 and following.
Here, referring to Figure 26, description will be made about the reduction of the time required for imaging (developing) in the present embodiment. Figure 26 presents a time graph showing the rotation of the developing roller and so on.
Here, with reference to Figure 26, the reduction in the time required for imaging (development) in this embodiment will be described. Figure 26 presents a time chart to illustrate the rotation of the developing roller and the like.
In Fig. 26, the time of the rotation and stop of the developing roller from a state in which the developing apparatus (cartridge) is in a residence position is recorded until the developing roller receives a formation start signal. image to perform development for the first color (yellow image formation) and the
IMPI
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0089.tif" />
development for a second color (magenta image formation). Regarding the subsequent developments for the third and fourth colors (cyano imaging and black imaging), the illustration is omitted due to redundant explanation.
In this embodiment, as described above, the engagement operation between the drive shaft 180 and the coupling 150 is completed during the rotation of the rotary member C or immediately after the stop of the rotation of the rotary member C. During or immediately after the rotation. stopping the rotation of the rotary member C, the meshing operation of the coupling 150 with the drive shaft 180 is completed. Subsequently, the developing roller 110 is placed in a rotatable state or rotated.
That is, in the case where the drive shaft 180 has already been rotated before the coupling 150 goes into meshing operation with the drive shaft 180, the coupling 150 initiates rotation simultaneously with the gear shaft. 180 drive. Subsequently, the developing roller 110 starts the rotation. Furthermore, in the case where the drive shaft 180 stops, the coupling 150 stops without being rotated even when the engagement of the coupling 150 with the drive shaft 180 is completed. When drive shaft 180 begins rotation, coupling 150 begins rotation. Subsequently, the
IMPI
INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA PROPERTY INDUSTRIAL 110 developing roller starts the rotation.
In any case, according to this embodiment, a rotating force transmitting member on the main mount side (for example, the main mount side coupling) is not required to move back and forth in the direction of the axial line.
In this embodiment, the drive shaft 180 has already been rotated before the coupling 150 goes into meshing operation with the drive shaft 180. Consequently, image formation can start quickly. Accordingly, compared to the case where the drive shaft 180 is stopped, the time required for imaging can be further reduced.
Furthermore, in this embodiment, in the state of rotation of the drive shaft 180, the coupling 150 can be disconnected from the drive shaft 180.
Consequently, in this embodiment, the drive shaft 180 may also not be rotated or stopped so that the coupling 150 engages with or disengages from the drive shaft.
That is, according to coupling 150 in this embodiment, coupling 150 can be engaged with and disengaged from drive shaft 180, regardless of the rotation or stoppage of drive shaft 180. This is also one of the outstanding effects of this modality.
<img file="MX337559B_D0090.tif" />
<img file="MX337559B_D0091.tif" />
Subsequently, the stages of counted — He »! Rotating member (developing roller), yellow imaging, separating the rotating member (developing roller), and stopping the rotation of the developing roller are performed in this order. Simultaneously with the start of the rotation of the rotary member, a disengagement operation of the drive shaft cartridge engagement of the main assembly of the apparatus is performed to prepare for a developing operation for the second color.
That is, in this embodiment, the engagement and disengagement operation of the coupling can be performed in interaction with the rotation of the rotating member. Consequently, it is possible to shorten a necessary time interval between the development of the first color and the development of the second color. Similarly, the time intervals between development of the second color and development of the third color, between development of the third color and development of the fourth color, between the residence position and development of the first color, and between development of the fourth color and the residence position, can also be reduced. Consequently, a time required to obtain a color image on a sheet can be reduced. This is also one of the outstanding effects of this modality.
Referring to Figure 27 and Figure 28, a modified example of the developing shaft will be described. The ““ SSíi<sup>Λ</sup>
Figure 27 presents a perspective view of the members around the development axis. Figure 28 illustrates a characteristic portion in Figure 27.
In the above description, the free end of the developing shaft is a spherical surface, and the coupling is brought into contact with the spherical surface thereof. However, as shown in FIGS. 27 (a) and 28 (a), the free end 1153b of the developing shaft 1153 may be flat. An outline portion 1153c of a peripheral surface thereof contacts coupling 150 to rotate coupling 150. Even with such a structure, the L2 axis is capable of safely pivoting movement relative to the Ll axis. Also, the processing for the spherical surface is unnecessary. For this reason, the cost can be reduced.
In the above description, another drive transmission bolt is attached to the developing shaft. However, as shown in Figures 27 (b) and 28 (b), it may be a separate member of the elongated developing shaft. A first developing shaft 1253A is a member for supporting a rubber portion of the developing roller (not shown). In addition, a second developing shaft 1253B is provided coaxially with the first developing shaft 1253A, and integrally has a rib for drive transmissions for meshing with coupling 150 1253Bc. In this case, the geometric latitude is improved by integral moldings
IMPI
MEXICAN INSTITUTE
OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY using injection molding and so on. For this reason, the part 1253Bc of the rib can be lengthened. Accordingly, the area of the drive transmission portion 1253Bd can be increased. Even if it is a developing shaft made of resin material, it can transmit torque safely. In the Figure, when the coupling 150 is rotated in the X8 direction, the drive transmission surface 150h of the coupling contacts the drive transmission portion 1253Bd of the second drive shaft. When the contact area is wide at this time, a stress applied to the rib 1253Bc is small. Therefore, the tendency of damage of coupling and so on is mitigable. Furthermore, the first developing shaft can be the simple metal shaft, and the second developing shaft can be an integrally molded product of the resin material. In this case, the cost reduction is achieved.
As shown in Figure 27 (c) and 28 (c), the opposite ends 1355al, 1355a2 of the rotational force transmitting bolt 1355 (rotational force receiving portion) are fixed in advance by press fit and so on in the drive transmission holes 1350gl or 1350g2 of the coupling 1350. Subsequently, the developing shaft 1353 having the free end portion 1353cl, 1353c2 formed in the shape of a slot can be inserted. At this time, it is preferable that the
<img file="MX337559B_D0092.tif" />
<img file="MX337559B_D0093.tif" />
..n Jr i
MEXICAN INSTITUTE
DE INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY gear portion 1355b of bolt 1355 relative to the free end portion (not shown) of developing shaft 1353 is conformed into a spherical shape so that coupling 1350 is capable of pivotal movement. By fixing the bolt 1355 in advance in this manner, it is not necessary to increase the size of the auxiliary hole 1350g of the coupling 1350 more than necessary. Accordingly, the rigidity of the coupling is improved.
Furthermore, in the above description, the inclination of the coupling axis follows the free end of the developing axis. However, as shown in Figures 27 (d), 27 (e), and 28 (d), it may follow the contact surface 1457a of the support member 1457 coaxially with the development axis 1453. In this case, the free end surface 1453b of the developing shaft 1453 is at the comparable level with the end surface of the support member. And, the rotational force transmitting bolt 1453c (rotational force receiving portion) projected from the free end surface 1453b is inserted into the opening 1450g of the coupling 1450. The rotational force is transmitted by this bolt 1453c which contacts the rotational force transmitting surface 1450h (rotational force transmitting portion) of the coupling. In this way, the contact surface 1457a at the moment of inclination of the coupling 1450, is provided on the member 1457 of
IMPI
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY support. By this, there is no need to process the developing spindle directly, and the machining cost can be reduced.
Also, similarly, the spherical surface at the free end can be a cast resin part that is a separate member. In this case, the machining cost of the shaft can be reduced. This is because the configuration of the processed axis can be simplified by cutting and so on. Furthermore, a range of the spherical surface of the free end of the shaft can be narrowed, and the cost of machining can be reduced by limiting the range that requires highly accurate processing.
Referring to Figure 29, the description will be made about a modified example of the drive shaft. Figure 29 presents a perspective view of the drive shaft and development drive gear.
Similar to the developing shaft, it is possible to form the free end of the drive shaft 1180 on a flat surface 1180b as shown in Figure 29 (a). By this, the configuration of the shaft is simple, and the machining cost can be reduced. A bolt (rotational force applying portion) is designated by reference numeral 1182.
Furthermore, similar to the developing shaft, the drive transmission portion 1280cl, 1280c2 can be integrally molded with the drive shaft 1280 as shown in the
<img file="MX337559B_D0094.tif" />
ΙΜΡΪ
INSTITUTO MEXICANO DS LA FROPiEDAO
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0095.tif" />
Figure 29 (b). When the drive shaft is a molded resin part, the drive transmission portion can be molded as an integral part. Accordingly, cost reduction can be achieved.
As shown in FIG. 29 (c), to narrow the range of the free end portion 1380b of the drive shaft 1380, an outside diameter of the free end 1380c of the shaft can be decreased compared to the outside diameter of a main portion 1380a. The free end portion 1380b requires a degree of accuracy, to determine the position of the coupling (not shown) as described above. For. For this reason, the surface area requiring a high degree of accuracy can be reduced by limiting the spherical range only to the contact portion of the coupling. By this, the machining cost can be lowered. Furthermore, the unnecessary free end of the spherical surface can be similarly cut.
Furthermore, in the above embodiments, in the direction of the axis Ll, there is no play between the developing roller and the main assembly of the apparatus. Here, the developing roller positioning method will be described with respect to the direction of the axis Ll as regards when there is play. In other words, the coupling 1550 is provided with a tapered surface 1550e, 1550h. As for the drive shaft, a force is produced in a thrust direction by rotation. Through this, the
<img file="MX337559B_D0096.tif" />
coupling and the developing roller are positioned with respect to the direction of the axis Ll. Referring to Figure 30 and Figure 31, these will be described in detail. Figure 30 presents a perspective view and a top plan view of the coupling alone. Figure 31 presents an exploded perspective view of the drive shaft, developing shaft, and coupling.
As shown in Figure 30 (b), rotational force receiving surface 1550e forms an angle alpha 5 relative to axis L2. When the drive shaft 180 is rotated in the TI direction, the bolt 182 and the receiving surface 1550e contact each other. Subsequently, a component force in the T2 direction is applied to the coupling 1550, and the coupling is moved in the T2 direction. In more detail, coupling 1550 is moved until drive shaft receiving surface 1550f (Figure 31a) of coupling 1550 contacts free end 180b of drive shaft 180. By this, the position relative to the direction of the axis L2 of the coupling 1550 is determined. Furthermore, the free end 180b is a spherical surface, and the receiving surface 1550f of the drive shaft of the coupling 1550 is a conical surface. For this reason, in the direction perpendicular to the axis L2, the position of the driven portion 1550a of the coupling 1550 relative to the drive axis 180 is determined.
<img file="MX337559B_D0097.tif" />
INSTITU l'C MÉXICANO Ψ DE LA f i'OPJuDAÜ
Also, as shown in Figure '<sup>S! AI</sup>fc), rotational force transmission surface 1550h Ipól'L'Idíi rotational force transmission) forms the angle alpha 6 in relation to the L2 axis. When the coupling 1550 is rotated in the TI direction, the transmission surface 1550h and the bolt 155 contact each other. Subsequently, a component force in the T2 direction is applied to the bolt 155, and the bolt moves in the T2 direction. And, the developing shaft 153 is moved until the free end 153b of the developing shaft 153 contacts the development bearing surface 1550i (Figure 31b) of the coupling 1550. By this, the position of the developing shaft 153 is determined. (development roller) relative to the direction of the L2 axis.
Furthermore, the development bearing surface 1550i of the coupling 1550 is a conical surface, and the free end 153b of the developing shaft 153 is the spherical surface. For this reason, relative to the direction perpendicular to the axis L2, the position of the driving portion 1550b of the coupling 1550 relative to a developing axis 153 is determined.
The angles alpha 5 and alpha 6 of taper are selected so as to be sufficient to produce the force to move the coupling and the developing roller in the push direction. And, the angles differ depending on the load. However, if another means of determining the position of the thrust direction is provided, the angles
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0098.tif" />
alpha 5 and alpha 6 narrowing can be small.
For this reason, as described hereinabove, the coupling is provided with the taper to produce the retractable force in the direction of the axis L2, and with the conical surface to determine the position in the direction perpendicular to the axis L2. By this, the position in the axis direction L2 of the coupling and the position in the direction perpendicular to the axis can be determined simultaneously. Furthermore, a further assured transmission of the rotational force can be achieved. This will be described.
When the rotational force receiving surface or the rotational force transmitting surface of the coupling is not provided with the taper angle described above, the rotational force transmitting surface or the rotational force receiving surface of the coupling is tilts due to the influence of dimensional tolerance and so on, and the component force occurs in the direction (direction opposite T2 of Figure 30) of the L2 axis. By this, the contact between the rotational force receiving surface and the rotational force transmitting surface of the drive transmission bolt and the coupling is disturbed. However, with the above-described structure, such a problem can be avoided.
However, it is not inevitable that the coupling will
100
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0099.tif" />
provide both; Such is the retractable taper and the positioning tapered surface. For example, instead of the taper to pull in the direction of the L2 axis, a part can be added to push in the direction of the L2 axis. Next, as long as there is no particular description, the case where both the tapered surface and the conical surface are formed will be described.
Referring to Figure 32, the description will be made about the means for regulating the direction of the inclination of the coupling relative to the cartridge for the gear between the coupling, and the drive shaft of the main assembly of the apparatus. Figure 32 presents a side view illustrating a main part of the drive side of the cartridge, and Figure 33 presents a sectional view taken along Sl-Sl of Figure 32.
Here, to regulate the direction of inclination of the coupling 150 relative to the cartridge B, the support member 1557 (mounting member) is provided with a portion
<td>1557hl or 1557h2</td><td>regulation.</td><td>Is</td><td>portion</td><td>1557hl</td><td>or 1557h2 of</td>
<td>regulation is</td><td>provides</td><td>from</td><td>mode</td><td>what</td><td>to come</td>
<td>substantially</td><td>parallel to</td><td>the</td><td colspan="2">direction X4</td><td>rotational</td>
<td>immediately</td><td>before he</td><td colspan="2">coupling</td><td>mesh</td><td>with shaft</td>
180 driving. Furthermore, the intervals D7 thereof are slightly larger than the outer diameter of the portion
150b drive coupling 150 fi D6. Through this,
101
VJL PI
INSTITUTO MEXICANO 'f = · *' <- «·
DS THE OWNERSHIP 1%. ~
INDUSTRIAL Coupling 150 is capable of pivoting mm / iniipritn in rotational X4 direction. Furthermore, the coupling is capable of pivotal movement in all directions relative to the development axis. For this reason, regardless of the development axis phase, the coupling can be tilted in the regulated direction. Accordingly, it becomes easy to insert the drive shaft (not shown) into the insertion opening 150m for the drive shaft of the coupling 150 much more securely. Consequently, they can be more securely meshed.
Furthermore, in the above description, the angle at the pre-engagement angular position of the coupling 150 relative to the axis Ll is greater than the angle at the disengagement angular position (Figure 22, Figure 25). However, this is not inevitable. Referring to Figure 34, the description will be made.
Figure 34 presents a longitudinal section view to illustrate the coupling assembly process. As shown in Figure 35 (items (a) to (d)), in the state of (a) the coupling assembly process in the direction of the Ll axis, the free end position 1850A1 downstream with respect to the direction Rotational X4 is closer to the direction of the drive shaft 182 (the rotational force application portion) than the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft. In the state of (b), the free end position 1850A1 is contacted at
102 the free end portion 180b.
í IMP! MEXICAN INSTITUTE:
DElAFltOM.5IV<sub>:</sub>->
! INDUSTRY).
At this time, the position
<img file="MX337559B_D0100.tif" />
Free end 1850A1 moves toward development axis 153 along free end portion 180b downstream of drive axis 180 with respect to rotational direction X4 of the rotary member. And, the free end position 1850A1 passes through the free end portion 180b3 of the drive shaft 180 in this position, the coupling 150 takes the pre-engagement angular position (Figure 34 (c)). And, finally, the gear is established between the coupling 1850 and the drive shaft 180 ((rotational force transmission angular position) Figure 34 (d)). When the free end portion 1850A1 passes through the free end 180b3, the free end position 1850A1 contacts the free end 180b3, or is positioned on the developing shaft (153) or on the side of the developing roller.
An example of this embodiment will be described.
First, as shown in Figure 5, the shaft diameter of the developing shaft 153 is OZ1, the shaft diameter of the bolt 155 is DZ2, and the length is Z3. As shown in Figure 6 (d), (e), and (f), the maximum outside diameter of the driven portion 150a of coupling 150 is DZ4, the diameter of a phantom CI circle (Figure 6 (d)) that forms the inner ends of the projections 150dl or 150d 2 or
150d3, 150d4 is ΠΖ5, and the maximum outside diameter of the drive portion 150b is DZ6. Referring to Figures and 25, the angle formed between the coupling 150 and the
103
INSTITUTO MEXICANO property
INDUSTRIAL conical surface 150f receiving the shaft iTffpiÍlsor ca - <»2., The angle formed between the coupling 150 and the surface 150i receiving the shaft is al. A shaft diameter of the drive shaft 180 is ΠΖ7, the shaft diameter of bolt 182 is DZ8, and the length is Z9. Furthermore, the angle relative to the axis L1 at the rotational force transmission angular position is βΐ, the angle at the pre-engagement angular position is β2, and the angle at the disengaging angular position is β3. In this example,
Zl = 8mm; Z2 = 2mm; Z3 = 12mm; Z4 = 15mm; Z5 = 10mm; Z6 = 19mm; Z7 = 8mm; Z8 = 2mm; Z9 = 14mm; al = 70 degrees; a2 = 120 degrees; β1 = 0 degrees; β2 = 35 degrees; β3 = 30 degrees.
It has been confirmed with these configurations that the devices of this mode work satisfactorily. However, these configurations do not limit the present invention.
Mode 2
Referring to Figure 36 - Figure 38, the second embodiment to which the present invention applies will be described.
In this embodiment, a means for tilting the axis of the coupling relative to the axis of the developing roller.
In the description of this mode, the same reference numbers as in Mode 1 are assigned to the elements that have the corresponding functions in this mode, and the detailed description thereof is omitted.
104
J / Vr. .f I ικκ · ίτυτζ »ΜΜΓ · ίΝο DE LA ÍRWIÉoao industrial for simplicity. This also applies to the other modality described in the following.
Figure 36 presents a perspective view illustrating a coupling securing member (this is peculiar to the present embodiment) glued onto the support member. Figure 37 presents an enlarged perspective view of a main part of the drive side of the cartridge. Figure 38 presents a perspective view and a longitudinal sectional view illustrating an engaged state between the drive shaft and the coupling.
As shown in Figure 36, the support member 3157 has a space 3157b that surrounds a portion of the coupling. A coupling securing member 3159 as a holding member for maintaining the inclination of the coupling 3150 is glued onto a cylinder surface 3157i constituting the cylinder space. As will be described below, this locking member 3159 is a member for temporarily maintaining the state where the axis L2 is tilted relative to the axis Ll. In other words, as shown in Figure 36, the flange portion 3150j of the coupling 3150 contacts this securing member 3159. By this, the axis L2 maintains the state of inclination towards the downstream with respect to the rotational direction (X4) of the cartridge relative to the axis Ll. Therefore, as shown in Figure 4-6, the
<img file="MX337559B_D0101.tif" />
105
IMPI
INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA PROPERTY industrial member 3159 of assurance is available on the surface
3157i of the cylinder upstream of the support member 3157 with respect to the rotational direction X4. As the material of the securing member 3159, the material having a relatively high coefficient of friction, such as rubber and elastomer, or elastic materials, such as sponge and leaf spring can be used. This is because, the inclination of the L2 axis can be maintained by friction force, elastic force, and so on.
Referring to Figure 38, the gearing operation (a part of the cartridge mounting and removing operation) for engaging the coupling 3150 with the drive shaft 180 will be described. Figures 38 (al) and (bl) illustrate the state immediately before the gear, and Figure 38 (a2) and (b2) illustrate the state of completion of the gear.
As shown in Figure 38 (al) and Figure 38 (bl), the L2 axis of the coupling 3150 is inclined in advance downstream (retracted position) with respect to the rotational direction X4 relative to the Ll axis by the force of the locking member 3159 (pre-engagement angular position). By this inclination of the coupling 3150, in the direction of the axis Ll, the downstream free end portion 3150A1 (with respect to the mounting direction) is closer to the side of the cartridge (developing roller) than
<img file="MX337559B_D0102.tif" />
106
IΜ ό τ
J¡. .4.V.5Í .. <$
ΙΜΤ.'Τνιο ί 'Λ ·;' · -CE ΙΛ! 'R¡> ·, É'LiS \' Ά ·
INUGSTRÍAL «ίχ'free end 180b3 of drive shaft. And, the free end portion 3150A2 upstream (with respect to the mounting direction) is closer to the bolt 182 than the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft 180. Furthermore, at this time, as described above, the flange portion 3150j of the coupling 150, contacts the securing member 3159. And, the inclined state of the L2 axis is maintained by the friction force thereof.
Subsequently, the cartridge B moves to the rotational direction X4. By this, the free end surface 180b or the free end of the bolt 182 contacts the receiving surface 3150f of the drive shaft of the coupling 3150. And, the axis L2 approaches the direction in parallel with the axis Ll. by the contact force (the force that rotates the rotating member) thereof. At this time, the flange portion 3150j is removed from the securing member 3159, and is placed in the non-contact state.
And finally, the axis Ll and the axis L2 are substantially co-axial with each other.
And, the coupling 3150 is in the standby (auxiliary) state to transmit the rotational force (Fig. 38 (a2), (b2)) (rotational force transmitting angular position).
Similar to mode 1, the rotary member C oscillates about a central axis of oscillation and contacts the
107
INSTITUTO MEXICANO DS LA PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0103.tif" />
developing roller 110 to photosensitive drum 107. And, the rotational force from motor 64 is transmitted to coupling 3150, bolt 155, development shaft 153, and development roller 110 through drive shaft 180. Axis L2 is substantially co-axial with axis L1 during rotation.
<td>For this reason, the member</td><td> 3159</td><td>from</td><td>assurance no</td><td>I know</td>
<td>contact the coupling</td><td>3150 and</td><td>not</td><td colspan="2">has influence on</td>
<td>coupling drive</td><td> 3150.</td><td></td><td></td><td></td>
<td>After it ends</td><td colspan="3">image formation,</td><td>the</td>
rotating member C oscillates in the opposite direction and the developing roller 110 is spaced from the photosensitive drum 107. And later, to carry out image formation for the next color, the rotating member C starts the revolution. In that case, the coupling 3150 disengages from the drive shaft 180. In other words, the coupling 3150 is moved to the disengagement angular position from the rotational force transmitting angular position. Taking into account that the operation in this case is the same as that of Mode 1 (Figure 25), the description is omitted for simplicity.
Furthermore, at the moment that the rotary member C carries out one complete revolution, the axis L2 of the coupling 3150 is inclined downstream in the rotational direction X4 by means not shown. In other words, the coupling 3150 moves from the angular position of
108
<img file="MX337559B_D0104.tif" />
disengagement to the pre-engagement angular position by means of the rotational force transmission angular position. By doing this, the flange portion 3150j contacts the securing member 3159, and the inclined state of the coupling is again maintained.
As described hereinabove, the inclined state of shaft L2 is maintained by securing member 3159 glued onto support member 3157. By this, the engagement between the coupling and the drive shaft is established much more securely.
In the present embodiment, the securing member 3159 is glued to the upstream side of the inner surface 3157i of the support member with respect to the rotational direction X4. However, this is not inevitable. For example, what is necessary is the position where the inclined state thereof can be maintained when the L2 axis is tilted.
The securing member 3159 has been described as contacting the flange portion (Figure 38bl) 3150j (Figure 38bl). However, the contact position may be the actuated portion 3150a (Figure 38bl).
In this embodiment, although it has been described that the assurance member is a separate member, this is not inevitable. For example, it can be integrally molded with support member 3157 (2-color molding, for example), and
109
<img file="MX337559B_D0105.tif" />
the support member 3157 may be contacted directly to the coupling 3150 instead of the securing member 3159. 0, the coupling surface can be rough to increase the friction coefficient.
Furthermore, although it has been described that the securing member 3159 sticks on the development-bearing member 3157, it can be anything if it is a fixed member on the cartridge B.
Mode 3:
Referring to Figure 39 - Figure 42, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.
The description will be made as regards the means for inclining the axis L2 relative to the axis Ll.
As shown in Figure 39 (perspective view), a member pressing the coupling peculiar to the present embodiment is mounted to the support member. Figure 40 presents a perspective view illustrating the member pressing the coupling. Figure 41 presents an enlarged perspective view of the main part of the drive side of the cartridge. Figure 42 presents a perspective view illustrating the engagement operation and a longitudinal sectional view of the coupling.
As shown in Figure 39, portions 4157el,
4157e2 that support the spring are provided on the inner surface 4157i of the support member 4157 (member
110 : IMPI • MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
<img file="MX337559B_D0106.tif" />
mounting). In addition, the coil portions 4159b, 4159c of the torsion coil springs 4159 (coupling biasing members) are mounted to the support portions 4157el, 4157e2. And, as shown in Figure 40, a contact portion 4159a of the biasing member 4159 contacts the side of the actuated portion 4150a of a flange portion 4150j of the coupling 4150. The spring 4159 is threaded to produce a spring force. By this, the axis L2 of the coupling 4150 is inclined relative to the axis Ll (Figure 41, angular position of pre-engagement). The contact position of the biasing member 4159 to the flange portion 4150j is established downstream of the center of the developing axis 153 with respect to the rotational direction X4. For this reason, the axis (L2) is inclined relative to the axis (Ll) so that the side of the driven portion 4150a is directed downstream with respect to the rotational direction (X4).
In the present embodiment, although the torsion coil spring is used as the biasing member (elastic material), this is not unavoidable. Any means that can produce elastic forces can be used, such as, for example, leaf springs, rubber, and sponge. However, to tilt the L2 axis, a certain amount of stroke or thrust is required. Accordingly, a limb that can provide the stroke or momentum is desirable.
In addition, the portions 4157el, 4157e2 that support the
111
IMPI
INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA PROPIEDAD INDUSTRIAL spring support member 4157 and coil parts 4159b, 4159c function as the retaining rib for the coupling described with respect to Mode 1 (Figure 9,
Figure 12).
Referring to Figure 42, the meshing operation (a part of the rotating member rotation operation) between the coupling 4150 and the drive shaft 180 will be described. (al) and (bl) in Figure 42 present views immediately before the gear, and (a2) and (b2) in Figure 42 illustrate the state where the gear has been completed. (a3) and (b3) in Figure 42 present views in the state where the gear has been released, and (a4) and (b4) in Figure 42 present views in the state where the axis L2 is inclined towards the current again down with respect to the X4 rotational direction.
In the state (retraction position of coupling 4150) of Figures 42 (al) and 42 (bl), the axis L2 thereof is inclined in advance downstream with respect to the rotational direction X4 relative to the axis Ll ( angular position of pre-gear). In this manner, the coupling 4150 is tilted. By this, in the direction of the axis Ll, the downstream free end position 4150A1 with respect to the rotational direction X4, is positioned on the side of the cartridge (developing roller) beyond the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft. In addition, the extreme 4150A2 position
<img file="MX337559B_D0107.tif" />
112
<img file="MX337559B_D0108.tif" />
<img file="MX337559B_D0109.tif" />
free upstream with respect to direction X4
-------- <sup>x</sup> rotational, is positioned beyond the bolt 182 side of the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft. In other words, as described hereinbefore, the flange portion 4150j is depressed by the push member 4159. For this reason, the L2 axis is tilted relative to the Ll axis by the thrust force.
Subsequently, the cartridge B moves in the rotational direction X4. By this, the free end surface 180b or the free end of the bolt 182 contacts the receiving surface 4150f of the drive shaft of the coupling 4150. And, the axis L2 is approximated to the angle in parallel with the axis Ll by the contact force. (rotational force of the rotating member).
Simultaneously, the flange portion 4150j and the bias spring 4159 contact each other. By this, the spring 4159 is screwed in to increase the moment. Finally, the Ll axis and the L2 axis become substantially co-axial with each other, and the coupling 4150 is in the rotational latency state (Figure 42 (a2), (b2)) (rotational force transmission angular position) .
Similar to Mode 1, rotational force is transmitted to coupling 4150, bolt 155, developing shaft 153, and developing roller 110 through drive shaft 180 of motor 64. The biasing force of member 4159 from
113
<img file="MX337559B_D0110.tif" />
IMPÍ
INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA PROWBLAD INDUSTRIAL thrust is applied to coupling 4150 at the time of rotation. However, if the drive torque of the motor 64 has a sufficient margin, the coupling 4150 will rotate with high precision.
As the rotary member rotates further, the coupling 4150 will separate from the drive shaft 180 as shown in Figure 42 (a3) and (b3). In other words, the spherical surface 180b of the free end of the drive shaft 180 pushes the receiving surface 4150f of the drive shaft of the coupling. By this, the axis L2 is tilted in the opposite direction (opposite direction of the rotational direction X4) with respect to the axis Ll (angular position of disengagement). By doing this, the thrust member 4159 is further screwed so that the thrust force (spring force) is further increased. For this reason, after coupling 4150 disengages from drive shaft 180, shaft L2 is again tilted in the rotational direction X4 relative to shaft Ll by the biasing force of biasing member 4159 (pre-gear angular position , Figure 42 (a4), (b4)). By this, even if the means is not particularly provided for inclining the shaft L2 towards the angular position of pre-engagement at the time that the drive shaft 180 and the coupling 4150 are again coupled to each other by the revolution of the rotating member C, the 180 drive shaft and coupling
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<img file="MX337559B_D0111.tif" />
<img file="MX337559B_D0112.tif" />
MEXICAN INSTITUTE
OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
4150 they can be connected (interlocked) with each other.
As described hereinbefore, the thrust is effected by the thrust member 4159 provided on the support member 4157. By this, the L2 axis is tilted relative to the Ll axis. Accordingly, the inclined state of the coupling 4150 is safely maintained and the meshing (coupling) between the coupling 4150 and the drive shaft 180 is secured.
The position of the push member in the present embodiment is not restrictive. For example, it may be another position on support member 4157, or it may be a different member than such a member.
Also, the thrust direction of the thrust member 4159 is the same as the direction of the axis Ll, but if the axis L2 is inclined in the predetermined direction, it can be any direction.
Also, the energizing position of the push member 4159 is the position of the flange portion 4150j, but if the axis L2 is inclined towards the predetermined direction, it can be any position of the coupling.
Mode 4:
Referring to Figure 43 - Figure 46, the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
The means for tilting the axis L2 with respect to the axis Ll will be described.
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<img file="MX337559B_D0113.tif" />
Figure 43 presents an exploded perspective view ^, illustrating the state before assembly of the main members of the developing cartridge. Figure 44 presents an enlarged side view of the drive side of the cartridge. Figure 45 presents a longitudinal sectional view schematically illustrating the structure for the axis L2 to tilt. Figure 4-6 is the drive shaft and a longitudinal sectional view illustrating the engagement operation between the coupling.
As shown in Figure 43 and Figure 45, a coupling securing member 5157k is provided on the support member 5157 (mounting member). When the support member 5157 is mounted in the direction of the axis Ll, while a part of a securing surface 5157kl of the securing member 5157k comes into contact with the inclined surface 5150m of the coupling 5150, the part meshes with the upper surface 5150jl of a flange portion 5150j. At this time, the flange portion 5150j is mounted with clearance (alpha angle 49) between the securing surface 5157kl and the circular column portion of the developing shaft 153 153a. Even when the dimensional tolerances of the coupling 5150, the support member 5157, and the developing shaft 153 vary, the flange portion 5150jl can be securely secured to the securing portion 5157kl of the support member 5157; IMPT @ 5 »· Mexican institute
DS THE PROPERTY
116 industrial providing this set (alpha angle 49).
And, as shown in Figure 45 (a), the axis L2 is tilted so that the side of the driven portion 5150a faces downstream with respect to the rotational direction X4 relative to the axis Ll. Furthermore, taking into account that the flange portion 5150j extends over the entire circumference, it can be mounted regardless of the phase of the coupling 5150. Furthermore, as described with respect to Mode 1, the coupling is capable of pivotal movement in the rotational X4 direction by the regulation portion 5157hl or 5157h2. Also, in this embodiment, the locking member 5157k is provided in the most downstream position in the rotational direction X4.
As will be described below, as shown in Figure 45 (b), in the state of being in engagement with the drive shaft 180, the flange portion 5150j is released from the securing member 5157k. In addition, the coupling 5150 is released from the securing portion 5157k. In the mounting of the support member 5157, when the coupling 5150 is not capable of being retained in the inclined state, the drive portion 5150b of the coupling is pushed by a tool and so on (the direction of an arrow X14 in Figure 45 (b)). By this, the 5150 coupling will be easily mounted (Figure 45 (a)).
Referring to Figure 46, the operation
<img file="MX337559B_D0114.tif" />
117 gear (a part of the rotary member rotation operation) between the coupling 5150 and the drive shaft 180. Figure 46 (a) shows a view immediately before the gear, and (b) shows a view after a portion of the coupling 5150 passes the drive shaft 180. Furthermore, (c) illustrates the state where the tilt of the coupling 5150 is released by the drive shaft 180, and (d) illustrates the engaged state.
In the state of Figure 46 (a) and (b), the coupling 5150 assumes a retraction position, where the axis L2 thereof is inclined in advance to the rotational direction X4 relative to the axis L1 (angular position of pre- gear). The free end position 5150A1 downstream with respect to the rotational direction X4 takes a position closer to the cartridge B (developing roller) than the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft by tilting the coupling 5150. Furthermore, the free end position 5150A2 upstream with respect to the rotational direction X4 is positioned on the bolt 182 side of the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft. At this time, as described hereinabove, the flange portion 5150j is contacted to the securing surface 5157kl of the securing portion 5157k, and, as regards engagement, the inclined state is maintained.
Subsequently, as shown in (c), cartridge B is
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Iivir <
MEXICAN INSTITUTE
SAY OWNERSHIP ' <sup>v</sup> “»¿2
INDUSTRIAL
Through this,
<td>axis of</td><td colspan="2">impulsion</td><td>of</td>
<td colspan="2">actuated,</td><td>enters</td><td>on</td>
<td>free</td><td>of</td><td>hey</td><td> 180</td>
moves in the X4 rotational direction.
Tapered receiving surface 5150f of coupling 5150 or projection 5150d contacting drive end portion 180b, or bolt 182. Flange portion 5150j is separated from securing surface 5157kl by force of contact. By this, the lock is released relative to the support member 5157 of the coupling 5150. And, in response to the rotation of the rotary member C, the coupling tilts so that the axis L2 becomes parallel to the axis Ll. After passage of the flange portion 5150j, the locking member 5157k is returned to the previous position by the restoring force. Subsequently, the coupling 5150 is released from the securing portion 5157k. And finally, as shown in (d), the axis Ll and the axis L2 become substantially co-axial, and the rotational latency state (rotational force transmission angular position) is established.
And, after the image forming operation ends, the next cartridge B reaches the developing position. For this purpose, the rotating member C is made to rotate again. In that case, the coupling 5150 disengages from the drive shaft 180. In other words, the 5150 coupling moves to the angular position of disengagement from the angular position of transmission of
119
<img file="MX337559B_D0115.tif" />
IMPI “S5g rotational force. Taking into account that the detail of the operation in this case is the same as in Mode 1 (Figure 25), the description is omitted for simplicity.
Furthermore, at the moment that the rotary member C carries out one complete revolution, the axis L2 of the coupling 5150 is inclined downstream from the rotational direction X4 by means not shown. In other words, the coupling 5150 is moved from the disengagement angular position to the pre-engagement angular position by means of the rotational force transmission angular position. By doing this, the flange portion 5150j contacts the securing member 3157k, and the inclined state of the coupling is again maintained.
As described hereinbefore, the direction of inclination of the coupling 5150 is regulated by the securing portion 5157k of the support member 5157.
By this, the inclined state of the coupling 5150 is maintained even more securely. And, the gear between the coupling 5150 and the drive shaft 180 is securely set. In addition, at the time of rotation, the structure that the securing portion 5157k does not contact the coupling 5150, also contributes to the stabilized transmission of the rotational force.
In this embodiment, the securing portion 5157k has an elastic portion. However, the 5157k portion of
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IMPI
<img file="MX337559B_D0116.tif" />
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0117.tif" />
be shaped into the shape of a rib by which the flange portion of the coupling is deformed. By this, the similar effects are provided.
Furthermore, the securing portion 5157k is provided on the downstream side with respect to the rotational direction X4. However, the securing portion 5157k can be any position if the axis L2 can maintain the state of inclination to the predetermined direction.
In this embodiment, the securing portion 5157k is made up of a portion of the support members. However, the securing portion 5157k may be provided in another position of the support member, or it may be a different member of the support member. Furthermore, the securing portion can be a separate member.
Furthermore, the present embodiment, and Mode 2 or Mode 3 can be implemented simultaneously, and the engagement and disengagement operations of the coupling relative to the drive shaft are carried out even more safely in this case.
Mode 5:
Referring to Figure 47- Figure 51, the fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
The means for tilting axis L2 relative to axis Ll will be described.
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-you. __
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INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0118.tif" />
Figure 47 shows a view of the mipmhrp dp bracket and the drive-side rotary flange, as viewed in the direction of the Ll axis. Figure 48 shows a view of the members of the main assembly of the apparatus, as viewed in the direction of the axis Ll. Figure 4-9 is the same as Figure 48, however the coupling site is added. Figure 50 presents a sectional view taken along lines S10-S10, Sll-Sll, S12-S12, S13-S13, S14-S14 in Figure 49.
First, referring to Figure 47, the structure for adjusting the direction of inclination of the coupling 150 will be described. The support member 7157 is rotated integrally with the rotary member C. The member 7157 is provided with adjusting portions 7157hl or 7157h2 to allow inclination, only in said one direction, of the 7150 coupling. A distance D6 between these regulating portions is slightly greater than the outside diameter (not shown) of the 7150b drive portion of the 7150 coupling to allow rotation of the 7150 coupling. The regulating portions 7157hl and 7157h2 are tilted by the angle of alpha. 7 relative to the X4 rotational direction. By this, the 7150 coupling is capable of pivotal movement to the alpha 7 X5 direction with respect to the rotational X4 direction.
Referring to Figure 48, the method for
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<img file="MX337559B_D0119.tif" />
INSTITUTO MEXICANO OE LA PROPERTY INDUSTRIAL tilt the 7150 coupling. In the present embodiment, a fixed regulating rib 1630R is provided to the drive side 180. The radius of the surface within the radial direction of rib 1630R is gradually reduced towards portion 1630Rb downstream of portion 1630Ra upstream, R-2 relative to the rotational direction X4. And, the radius Rl of this surface is selected so that it contacts and is interfered with by the outer periphery 7150cl of the intermediate part 7150c of the coupling, Figure 45.
When the 7150 coupling contacts the regulating rib 1630R, the 7150 coupling is pushed toward the axis of rotation of the rotary member C. At this time, the 7150 coupling is regulated by the regulating portions 1557hl or 1557h2 in the direction of movement. For this reason, the 7150 coupling leans towards the X5 direction.
An increase in the degree of interference will also increase the slope of the 7150 coupling. The configuration of the regulating rib 1630R is such that before the 7150 coupling meshes with the drive shaft 180, the amount of interference increases until the angle of tilt of the 7150 coupling becomes the angle that can be engaged. In the present embodiment, the section from position 1630Rb to position 1630Rc, is located on the same positions of the radius of the axis of rotation of the rotating member C. The radius is indicated by
Rl
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INDUSTRIAL
Figure 49 illustrates the location until the 7150 coupling meshes with the drive shaft 180 along the guide.
1630R with the rotation of the rotating member C. A section taken along the lines S10-S10-S14-S14 in Figure 49 is shown in Figure 50 (a) - (e).
The 7150 coupling enters the regulation rib region 1630R in the X4 direction. At this time, the coupling looks in the direction of X6 which is the substantially forward direction, faces or faces the reverse direction of X7, or looks in the intermediate direction of the
<td colspan="5">same. Here, the case where the 7150 coupling</td>
<td>look towards the</td><td>direction of</td><td>X7.</td><td></td><td></td>
<td colspan="3">Steering X5 Tilt</td><td>(Figure 47)</td><td>of</td>
<td>coupling</td><td>7150 is the</td><td colspan="2">alpha angle 7 with relation c</td><td>i the</td>
<td>direction X4</td><td>rotational.</td><td>In view of</td><td>this, when</td><td>the</td>
Coupling 7150 is inclined towards the X7 direction, the driven portion 7150a of the coupling inclines outwards with respect to the radial direction of the rotating member C (Figure 47). The gap Gl is provided between the 7150 coupling and the regulating rib 1630R where it comes within the range of the regulating member 1630R.
As the rotation of the rotary member C advances to the section Sll-Sll, the coupling 7150 and the regulating rib 1630R contact each other (Figure 50b). The radius of the
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IMP
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INDUSTRI 1630R rib regulation is gradually reduced. For
<img file="MX337559B_D0120.tif" />
Consequently, a degree of interference increases with advancement of the 7150 coupling.
At the position of section S12-S12, the regulating rib 1630R lifts the coupling 7150, and is co-axial with the developing shaft (Figure 50c). At this time, the movement of the 7150 coupling is regulated by the regulation rib 1630R. In view of this, the 7150 coupling is capable of pivoting movement only in the X8 direction (only in the X6 direction in the cross position of S10-S10), and cannot tilt towards the X8 direction opposite to it.
In the transverse position S13-S13, the degree of the interference of the coupling relative to the regulating rib 1630R increases. In view of this, the 7150 coupling is lifted by the 1630R rib, and is forcibly tilted in the direction of X9 (direction X8 in section S12-S12) (Figure 50 (d)) (pre-gear angular position ).
In this state, the rotary member C is rotated until the coupling becomes co-axial with the drive shaft 180 (section position S14-S14). By this, the coupling 7150 can be meshed with the drive shaft 180 through the operation similar to Mode 1 (rotational force transmission angular position).
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IMPI <sup>1</sup> INSTITUTO MEXICANO “ES
OF THE OWN AGE
INDUSTRIAL
Subsequently, after the image formation ends, the 7150 coupling disengages from the drive shaft 180, so that a series of operations ends (taking into account that the disengagement operation is the same as that of the previous modalities, description omitted for simplicity). This operation is repeated for each image formation.
In order for the coupling to interfere with the regulating rib, the coupling contacts it from the outside with respect to the radial direction, and tilts the coupling accordingly. However, it is regulated such that the angle alpha 7 (in Figure 47 the X5 direction) of the regulating portions 1557hl or 1557h2 is line symmetric with respect to the tangential direction (the X4 direction).
By this, the same operation is carried out when the regulating rib 1630R is contacted from the radial inside.
The cartridge need not be provided with the mechanism to tilt the coupling by orienting the coupling 7150 which is regulated by the regulation rib 1630R. By this, the reduction of the cost of the cartridge can be achieved.
In this embodiment, the coupling can slide safely along the rib by applying force to the coupling with the spring and thus
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IMPI
INSTITUTO MEXICANO ¿E LA INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
<img file="MX337559B_D0121.tif" />
successively.
In addition, it moves on the guide rib through an intermediate portion 7150c of the coupling. However, if the inclination of the coupling is possible, it can move on the guide rib through the different position of the intermediate part.
Furthermore, the present embodiment, Mode 2 or Mode 3, or Mode 4 can be implemented simultaneously, and in such a case, the engagement and disengagement operations of the coupling can be ensured.
Mode 6:
Referring to Figure 51- Figure 52, the sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
In this mode, the configuration of another coupling is used.
Figure 51 presents an illustration of the coupling that is the main constituent element of the present embodiment. Figure 52 presents a longitudinal sectional view illustrating the meshed state and the pre-meshed state between the drive shaft of the main assembly of the apparatus and the coupling.
First, referring to Figure 51, the configuration of the coupling per se will be described. Figure 51 (a) shows a view of the coupling, as viewed from the main mounting side of the apparatus, Figure 51 (b) shows
127 • NBUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0122.tif" />
a view of the coupling, as viewed from the side of the developing roller, and Figure 51 (c) shows a sectional view taken along S4-S4 in Figure 51 (a).
The 8150 coupling is generally cylindrical. As shown in Figure 51 (c), the 8150 coupling has a drive shaft insertion opening portion 8150m and a developing shaft insertion opening portion 8150p to receive rotational force from the drive shaft of the main assembly of the apparatus. . The opening 8150m is provided with a tapered drive shaft receiving surface 8150f. On the cylindrical inner surface, a plurality of projections 8150d (8150dl or 8150d 2 or 8150d3, 8150d4) driven in the form of ribs are provided. Furthermore, in Figure 51 (a), a rotational force transmitting surface 8150el-e4 (rotational force receiving portion) is provided downstream of the projection 8150d with respect to the clockwise direction. And, the rotational force (driving force) is transmitted by the contact of the bolt 182 of the drive shaft 180 to the transmission surface 8150el-e4 for the 8150 coupling.
The aperture 8150p is provided with a tapered surface 8150i which supports development in a similar manner. In addition, the cylindrical inner surface is provided with the projections
8150gl or 8150g2 as ribs. Also, in Figure 50 (b)
128
IΜ Ρ ί
MEXICAN INSTITUTE Οϊ INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY An 8150hl or 8150h2 transmission surface (rotational force transmission portion) is provided in a position upstream of the development drive auxiliary openings 8150gl or 8150g2 with respect to the clockwise direction of the clock.
Referring to Figure 52, the description will be made about the engagement of the coupling.
FIG. 52 (a) presents a sectional view illustrating a state before engagement with the drive shaft 180 after the movements of the developing shaft 180 and the coupling 8150 in the rotational direction X4. The axis L2 is inclined at the angle alpha 7 so that a free end position 8150A1 downstream with respect to the rotational direction X4 can pass the free end portion 180b. At this time, the upstream 182a and downstream 182b of the bolt 182 maintain the meshed state with the transmission surface 8150hl or 8150h2 (rotational force receiving portion) (Figure 51c) of the 8150 coupling.
Figure 52 (b) illustrates the coupling 150 that has been described with respect to Mode 1, in the same orientation as in Figure 52 (a). As will be understood from Figure 52 (b), the axis L2 of the coupling 150 is tilted by the angle alpha 7 in a manner similar to that of
Figure 52 (a). By this, the meshing between the upstream bolt 155 and the transmission surface 8150hl
<img file="MX337559B_D0123.tif" />
129 upstream drive,
INSTITUTO méXícano Dí LA H & PIED'J industrial
<img file="MX337559B_D0124.tif" />
it is not set with respect to the X4 rotational direction. In other words, there is a G7 gap between bolt 155 and transmission surface 150hl. For. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the coupling 8150 has the contact portions for the transmission of rotational force at the two locations as shown in Figure 52 (a). For this reason, the orientation of the coupling is further stabilized.
As described hereinabove, the coupling has a cylindrical shape. By this, even if it is necessary to increase the inclination angle (pre-engagement angular position) of the coupling, the contact portions for the transmission of rotational force in the two places are secured. Accordingly, the tilting operation of the stabilized coupling can be achieved.
Taking into account that the co-axial rotational force transmission between the drive shaft 180 and the developing shaft 153 and the gear release operation between them are the same as those of Mode 1, those descriptions are omitted for simplicity.
Mode 7
Referring to Figure 53, the seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described.
The present embodiment is different from Mode 1 in the coupling configuration. Figure 53 (a) presents
130
IMPI
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF THE ΡίΛΡ'ΓΠΛΠ
OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
<img file="MX337559B_D0125.tif" />
a perspective view of a coupling having a generally cylindrical shape, and Figure 53 (b) shows a sectional view when the coupling mounted to the cartridge meshes with a drive shaft.
In Figures 53 (a) and 53 (b), the rotational force is input from the main mount on the right side, and the development roller is driven on the left.
A leading side edge of the coupling 9150 is provided with a plurality of actuated projections 9150d (rotational force receiving portions). In this embodiment, they are provided in two positions. The input portions or inputs 9150k are provided between the drive receive projections 9150d. The projection 9150d is provided with a rotational force receiving surface 9150e (rotational force receiving portion). A rotational force transmitting bolt 9182 (rotational force applying portion) of the drive shaft 9180 as will be described below, contacts the rotational force receiving surface 9150e. By this, a rotational force is transmitted to the coupling 9150.
To stabilize the torque transmitted to the coupling, a plurality of rotational force receiving surfaces 150e are desirably disposed on the same circumference (on a common circle). By arrangement in this way, the force transmission radius
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IMPI
INSTITUTO MEXICANO DB LA NOHIDAD INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0126.tif" />
rotational is constant and the transmitted torque is stabilized. A sudden increase in torque can be avoided. Furthermore, from the standpoint of drive transmission stabilization, the receiving surfaces 9150e are desirably provided on diametrically opposite positions (180 degrees). Furthermore, the number of the receiving surfaces 9150e can be any if the pin 9182 of the driving shaft 9180 can be received by the auxiliary portion 9150k. In the present embodiment, the number is two. The rotational force receiving surfaces 9150e may not be on the same circumference, or may not be arranged in diametrically opposite positions.
Furthermore, the cylinder surface of the coupling 9150 is provided with the auxiliary aperture 9150g. Furthermore, an aperture 9150g is provided with the rotational force transmitting surface 9150h (rotational force transmitting portion). The drive transmission bolt 9155 (rotational force receiving member) (FIG. 53 (b)) of the developing shaft 9153 contacts this rotational force transmission surface 9150h. By this, the rotational force is transmitted to the developing roller 110 of the main assembly A.
Similar to the 9150d projection, the rotational force transmission surface 9150h is arranged
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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0127.tif" />
desirably diametrically opposite on the same circumference.
The configurations of developing shaft 9153 and drive shaft 9180 (Figure 53 (b)) will be described. In Mode 1, the cylindrical end is a spherical surface. In this embodiment, however, a diameter of a spherical free end portion 9153b of the end portion is greater than a diameter of a main portion 9153a. With this configuration, the left end portion of the coupling 9150 can be tilted without interference with the main portion 9150a. The configuration of the drive shaft 9180 is substantially the same as that of the development shaft 9150. In other words, the configuration of the free end portion 9180b is the spherical surface, and the diameter thereof is larger than the diameter of the main portion 9180a of the cylindrical shaped portion. In addition, bolt 9182 (rotational force applying portion) is provided which pierces through the substantial center of the free end portion 9180b which is the spherical surface. Bolt 9182 transmits rotational force to the transmission surface or rotational force receiving surface 9150e of coupling 9150.
The developing axis 9150 and the spherical surface of the axis
9180 impeller are in engagement with the inner surface 9150p of the coupling 9150. By this, the
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IMPI
MEXICAN INSTITUTE <sup>IN</sup> «Ei a QUEDAD
<img file="MX337559B_D0128.tif" />
relative position between developing shaft 9150 and * => 1 coupling 9150 of driving shaft 9180. The operation with respect to mounting and dismounting the coupling 9150 relative to the drive shaft 9180 is the same as in Mode 1, and therefore the description thereof is omitted for simplicity.
As described hereinabove, the coupling has the cylindrical shape, and consequently, the position relative to the direction perpendicular to the axis direction L2 of the coupling 9150 can be determined if the coupling meshes with the shaft.
A modified example of the coupling will be described further. In the configuration of the 9250 coupling shown in Figure 53 (c), a cylindrical shape and a conical shape are put together. Figure 53 (d) presents a sectional view of the coupling of this modified example. A driven portion 9250a of the coupling 9250 (right side in the Figure) has a cylindrical shape, and an inner surface 9250p thereof meshes with the spherical surface of the drive shaft 9180. Furthermore, it has the mating surface 9250q and can effect positioning with respect to the axial direction between the coupling 9250 and the drive shaft 180. Drive portion 9250b has a conical shape (left side of Figure), and, similar to Mode 1, position relative to shaft 153
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<img file="MX337559B_D0129.tif" />
The development axis is determined by the development spindle receiving surface 9250i.
The 9350 coupling configuration shown in Figure 53 (e) is a combination of a cylindrical shape and a conical shape. Figure 53 (f) presents a sectional view of this modified example. The driven portion 9350a of the coupling 9350 has a cylindrical shape (right side), and the inner surface 9350p thereof meshes with the spherical surface of the drive shaft 9180. Positioning in the axial direction of the drive shaft 9180 is accomplished by mating the spherical surface 9180c of the drive shaft 9180 to the contour portion 9350q formed between the cylindrical portions having different diameters.
The configuration of the coupling 9450 shown in Figure 53 (g) is a combination of a spherical surface, a cylindrical shape, and a conical shape. Figure 53 (h) presents a sectional view of this modified example, wherein a driven portion 9450a of the coupling 9450 (right side) has a cylindrical shape, and the inner surface 9450p thereof meshes with the spherical surface 9450q of the drive shaft. . A spherical surface of the drive shaft 180 contacts a spherical surface 9450q which is a part of the spherical surface. By this, the position with respect to the direction of the axis L2 can be determined. The projections are designated by 9250d, 9350d, 9450d. The
135
WSTITUT6 ΜΪΧ ISA Ν0 Βί Μ WI0W8D. \ C ΙΝΒύίϊΜΜ.
<img file="MX337559B_D0130.tif" />
Rotational force receiving surfaces (rotational force receiving portion) are designated by 9250e, 9350e and 9450e.
Mode 8
Referring to Figure 54 - Figure 56, the eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
The present embodiment is different from Mode 1 in the mounting operation relative to the drive shaft of the coupling, and the structure relative to it. Figure 54 presents a perspective view illustrating a configuration of a coupling 10150 of the present embodiment. The configuration of the coupling 10150 is a combination of the cylindrical shape and the conical shape that have been described in Mode 7. Furthermore, a tapered surface 10150r is provided on the free end side of a coupling 10150. Furthermore, the surface of an opposite side of the drive receiving projection 10150d with respect to the direction of the axis Ll is provided with a surface 10150s of thrust force reception.
Referring to Figure 55, the structure of the coupling will be described.
An inner surface 10150p and a spherical surface 10153b of a developing shaft 10153 of the coupling 10150 are in mesh with each other. A thrust member 10634 is interposed between a force receiving surface 10150s
135 r
k £ ¡9 * «Se-í.
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<img file="MX337559B_D0131.tif" />
of thrust described above and a surface 10151b ···· «· —g <sub>IT1</sub>.. <sub>Ll</sub> bottom of a developing flange 10151. By this, the coupling 10150 is pushed towards the drive shaft 180 when the rotating member C stops at the predetermined position. Furthermore, similarly to the previous embodiments, a retaining rib (not shown) is provided adjacent the drive shaft 180 on the flange portion 10150j with respect to the direction of the Ll axis. By this, disengagement of the cartridge coupling 10150 is prevented. The inner surface 10150p of the coupling 10150 is cylindrical. Consequently, the coupling is mounted to the cartridge B in order to be movable in the direction of the axis L2.
Figure 56 is to illustrate the orientation of the coupling in the event that the coupling meshes with the drive shaft. Figure 56 (a) presents a sectional view of the coupling 150 of Mode 1, and Figure 56 (c) presents a sectional view of a coupling 10150 of the present embodiment. And, Figure 56 (b) presents a sectional view before reaching the state of Figure 56 (c), the rotational direction is shown by X4 and the chain line L5 is a line drawn in parallel with the mounting direction. from the free end of the drive shaft 180.
For the coupling to mesh with the drive shaft 180, the downstream free end position 10150A1 with respect to
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<img file="MX337559B_D0132.tif" />
to the rotational direction X4 you need to pay »·!?. ρ ^ Ηήη 180b3 free end of impeller shaft 180. In the case of Mode 1, the L2 axis is tilted by more than the al04 angle. By this, the coupling is moved to the position where the position
Free end 150A1 does not interfere with free end portion 180b3 (Figure 56 (a), pre-engagement angular position).
On the other hand, in the coupling 10150 of the present embodiment, in the state where it is not in gear with the drive shaft 180, the coupling 10150 takes the position closest to the drive shaft 180 by a restoring (elastic) force of a member. 10634 thrust (elastic member). In this state, when moving in the rotational direction X4, a part of the tapered surface 10150r of the coupling 10150 contacts the drive shaft (Figure 56 (b)).
At this time, the force is applied to the tapered surface 10150r in the X4 direction, and consequently, the coupling 10150 is retracted in the longitudinal direction Xll by a component force thereof. And, the free end portion 10153b of the developing shaft 10153 abuts a portion
Coupling 10150 splice 10150t. In addition, the coupling 10150 is rotated clockwise about the center PI of the free end portion 10153b (pre-engagement angular position) of the developing shaft.
By this, the free end position 10150A1 downstream of the coupling with respect to the direction
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IMPI Mexican institute Oí LA MOPIDAD industrial
<img file="MX337559B_D0133.tif" />
Rotational X4, passes through the free end 180b of drive shaft 180 (Figure 56 (c)). When the drive shaft 180 and the developing shaft 10153 become substantially co-axial, a receiving surface 10150f of the drive shaft of the coupling 10150 contacts the free end portion 180b by the elastic force of the bias spring 10634. By this, the coupling is put into the rotational latency state (Figure 55). In consideration of a retraction amount of the coupling 10150, the degree of inclination of the shaft L2 can be reduced to al06 (Figure 56 (c)).
As the rotating member restarts rotation in said one direction after the completion of the imaging operation, the free end portion 180b is forced onto the receiving surface 10150f of the conically shaped drive shaft of the coupling 10150 by the rotational force of the rotating member. Coupling 10150 is pivotally moved by this force, while retracting towards the direction (opposite direction Xll) of axis L2 by this. Coupling 10150 disengages (disconnects) from drive shaft 180.
Mode 9:
Referring to Figure 57, Figure 58, and Figure 59, embodiment 9 will be described.
This mode is different from Mode 1 in the position (docking position) to enter the
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MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
<img file="MX337559B_D0134.tif" />
rotational force, and in the structure to transmit the rotational force to the developing roller and the developer supply roller of the coupling.
Figure 57 presents a perspective view of the cartridge B. In addition, Figure 58 presents a perspective view illustrating a drive portion of the cartridge B without the side plate. Figure 59 (a) presents a perspective view of a drive input gear, as viewed from the drive side. Figure 59 (b) presents a perspective view of a drive input gear, as viewed from the non-drive side.
A developing gear 145 is provided at a longitudinal end of a developing roller 110. In addition, a developer supply roller gear 146 is provided to a longitudinal end of the developer supply roller 115 (Figure 1). Both of the gears are set on the roller shafts. By this, the rotational force received by the coupling 150 of the main assembly A of the apparatus is transmitted to the bolt 155 (rotational force receiving portion) and the gear 147. Furthermore, the rotational force received by the gear 147 is transmitted to the roller 110 developer and developer supply roller 115 through gear 14 and gear 146. Rotational force can be transmitted to developer stirring member and so on.
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IMP
<img file="MX337559B_D0135.tif" />
MEXICAN INSTITUTE
OF THE INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
Also, the member for transmitting the rotational force may not be a gear, but it may be a toothed band and so on. Drive force transmission members, such as gear or toothed belt, can be used appropriately.
Referring to FIG. 59, the drive input gear 147. which mounts the coupling 150 in an oscillating manner will be described. A shaft 11153 of the gear is fixed by press fit, joint, and so on to the inside of the gear. The end 11153b thereof has a spherical configuration, so that it can be tilted smoothly when the axis L2 is tilted. In this embodiment, although the gear shaft 11153 is made of metal, it can be made of resin material integral with the gear 147. In addition, the rotational force transmitting bolt 155 (rotational force receiving portion) to receive the rotational force of coupling 150, is provided on the free end side of gear shaft 11153, and extends in the direction that intersects the shaft of gear shaft 11153.
Bolt 155 is made of metal and is fixed by press fit, union, and so on to gear shaft 11153. If transmission of rotational force is possible, the position of bolt 155 is satisfactory anywhere. Preferably, bolt 155 penetrates the center
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<img file="MX337559B_D0136.tif" />
from the spherical surface of the free end portion 11153b of the gear shaft 11153. This is because, with such a structure, even when the deflection angle exists between gear shaft 11153 and shaft L2, the rotational force transmission radius is always constant. By this, constant transmission of rotational force is achieved. The number of rotational force transmission points can be any, and the person skilled in the art can select it appropriately. However, in this embodiment, the single bolt 155 is employed from the point of view of assured transmission of drive torque, and mounting property. And, the bolt 155 penetrates the center of the spherical surface 11153b of the free end. By this, the bolt 155 projects in diametrically opposite directions from the peripheral surface of the gear shaft 11153. In other words, the rotational force is transmitted in both places. Here, in this embodiment, although the bolt 155 is metal, it may be a product made of resin material integral with the gear shaft 11153 and with the gear 147. The gears 145, 146, and 147 are helical gears.
Furthermore, since the mounting method of the coupling 150 is the same as that of Mode 1, the description is omitted.
Gear 147 is provided with a space 147a for
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<img file="MX337559B_D0137.tif" />
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF ΕΛ INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
<img file="MX337559B_D0138.tif" />
it interferes with gear 147, when coupling 150 oscillates (movement, pivoting). The space 147a is provided in the central portion of the gear 147. By this, it is possible to shorten the length of the coupling 150. Furthermore, as regards the mounting method of the gear 147, a hole 147b (Figure 59 (b)) is rotatably supported by the support shaft (not shown) of developer support or bearing 11151 (Figure 58). Furthermore, the cylindrical portion 147c is rotatably supported by the inner surface 11157i of the support member 11157.
Taking into account that the gearing, the drive, and the disengagement of the coupling by the rotating operation of the rotary member C are the same as those of Mode 1, the description is omitted.
The means for tilting the shaft L2 to the pre-engagement angular position just before engagement of the coupling to the drive shaft, may employ a method of any of the mode 2-mode 5 described heretofore.
As described with respect to the present embodiment, it is not necessary to arrange the coupling 150 to the coaxial end with the developing roller 110. More particularly, according to the embodiment described above, the coupling 150 is provided remote from the axis Ll of the developing roller 110 in the perpendicular direction.
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INSTITUTO MEXIO'.so DE LA FROPíEDaO
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0139.tif" />
to the axis Ll of the developing roller 110. And, in the direction of the axis of rotation L2, the rotational force transmitting surface 150h (rotational force transmitting portion, and the cartridge-side rotational force transmitting portion) are provided on the opposite side of the surface 150e rotational force receiving portion (rotational force receiving portion). And, the rotational force received by the rotational force transmitting surface 150h, is transmitted to the developing roller 110 through the transmitting bolt 155 (rotational force receiving portion) and the gears 145 and 147 (rotational force transmitting member). driving force). By this, the roller
110 The developer is rotated by the rotational force received from the main assembly A via the coupling 150.
According to this embodiment, the latitude of the design of the main assembly A of the apparatus and the cartridge B is improved. This is because, in the cartridge B, the position of the coupling can be appropriately selected without distinction from the position of the roller 110 revealed.
Furthermore, in the main assembly A of the apparatus, the position of the drive shaft 180 can be appropriately selected without distinction from the position of the developing roller 110 in the state of the cartridge B mounted to the rotating member C.
This is effective in developing commercial products.
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Mode 10:
Referring to Figure 60 - Figure 69, the tenth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
Figure 60 presents a perspective view of the cartridge using a 12150 coupling in accordance with the present embodiment. An outer periphery of an outer end of a developing bearing member 12157 provided on the drive side functions as cartridge guides 140L1, 140L2.
The developing cartridge is removably mounted to the rotating member C by these cartridge guides 140L1, 140L2 and the cartridge guide (not shown) provided on the non-drive side.
In this embodiment, the coupling can be handled integrally with the end member of the developing shaft. Here, the end member of the developing shaft is the member mounted to the end of the developing roller, and it has the function of transmitting the rotational force to the other member in the cartridge B.
Figure 61 (a) presents a perspective view of the coupling, as viewed from the drive side. This figure presents a perspective view, as viewed from the developing roller side of the coupling of Figure 61 (b). Figure 61 (c) presents a side view of the coupling as viewed in the direction perpendicular to the
145
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INDUSTRIAL <Λ ^ Τ L2 axis direction. In addition, Figure 61 (d) presents a side view of the coupling, as viewed from the drive side. Figure 61 (e) shows a view of the coupling, as viewed from the developing roller side. Furthermore, Figure 61 (f) presents a sectional view taken along a line S21-S21 of Figure 61 (d).
Coupling 12150 of the present embodiment meshes with drive shaft 180 in a similar manner to coupling 150. To receive rotational force to rotate the developing roller. In addition, it disengages from the drive shaft 180.
The coupling-side driven portion 12150a of the present embodiment has the function and structure similar to those of the member 150a, and the coupling-side drive portion 12150b has the function and structure similar to the member 150b. In this embodiment, the drive portion 12150b has the spherical drive shaft receiving surface 12150Í in order to be able to move between said three angular positions without distinction of the phase of the rotation of the developing roller 110 (Figure 61 (a ), (b), (c), (f)).
Furthermore, the intermediate portion 12150c has the function and structure similar to those of the member 150c. Also, the material and so on is the same as that of the member.
146
<img file="MX337559B_D0140.tif" />
Furthermore, aperture 12150m has ϊπ * ιίι y 'similar to those of member 150m (Figure 61 (f)).
Furthermore, the 12150d (12150dl-d4) projection has the
<td>function</td><td>Y</td><td>structure similar to those</td><td>of</td><td>element</td><td>150d</td>
<td>(Figure</td><td> 61</td><td>(a), (b), (c), (d)).</td><td></td><td></td><td></td>
<td>The</td><td colspan="2">12150k (12150kl-k4) portion of</td><td colspan="2">entrance has</td><td>the</td>
<td>function</td><td>Y</td><td>structure similar to those</td><td>of</td><td>element</td><td>150k</td>
<td>(Figure</td><td> 61</td><td>(a), (b), (c), (d)).</td><td></td><td></td><td></td>
In addition, the drive portion 12150b has the spherical surface so that it can move between the rotational force transmission angular position and the pre-engagement angular position (or disengagement angular position) relative to the Ll axis without distinction of the phase of the rotation of the developing roller 110 in the cartridge B5.
In the illustrated example, the drive portion 12150b has a spherical retaining portion 12150I concentric with the axis L2. A fixing hole 12150g penetrated by a transmission bolt 12155 is provided at a position that passes through the center of the drive portion 12150b.
In this embodiment, the coupling 12150 comprises a driven portion 12150a, an intermediate portion 12150c, and a drive portion 12150b. The connection method between these will be described below in the drum flange assembly process.
Referring to Figure 62, an example of
147 <sup>Λ</sup>·
INSTITUTO MEXICANO Κ <«« ®ί (* Μ
OF THE PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL 'W-SV' *<sup>1</sup>* !! » an end member 12151 of the developing shaft that supports the 12150 coupling. Figure 62 (a) shows a view, as viewed from the drive shaft side, and Figure 62 (b) shows a sectional view taken along of a line S22-S22 in Figure 62 (a).
The aperture 12151gl or 12151g2 shown in Figure 62 (a), forms a notch extending in a direction of the rotational axis of an end member 12151 of the developing shaft. At the time of mounting the coupling 12150, the rotational force transmission bolt 12155 (rotational force transmission portion) enters this opening 12151gl or 12151g2.
Drive bolt 12155 moves into aperture 12151gl or 12151g2. By this, regardless of the phase of the rotation of the developing roller 110 in the cartridge B5, the coupling 12150 can be moved between said three angular positions.
Furthermore, in Figure 62 (a), the rotational force receiving surfaces 12151h (12151h 1 or 12151h2) (rotational force receiving portions) are provided in the clockwise upstream of the aperture 12151gl or 12151g2. One side of drive pin 12155 of coupling 12150 contacts drive surface 12151h. By this, the rotational force is transmitted to the developing roller 110. The transmission surfaces 12151hl12151h2 have the surfaces intersected by
148
<img file="MX337559B_D0141.tif" />
the rotational direction of the end member 12151. By this, the transmission surface 12151h is pressed to the side of the transmission bolt 12155, and is rotated about the axis Ll (FIG. 62b).
As shown in Figure 62 (b), end member 12151 is provided with a section 12151j containing the coupling to house the drive transmission portion 12150b of coupling 12150.
Figure 62 (c) presents a sectional view illustrating the step of assembling coupling 12150.
As regards the actuated portion 12150a and the intermediate portion 12150c of the coupling, the retaining member 12156 is inserted into the intermediate portion 12150c. And, the driven portion 12150a and the intermediate portion 12150c are capped in the direction of arrow X32 by a positioning member 12150q (a driving portion 12150b) having a retaining portion 12150I. The bolt 12155 penetrates the fixing hole 12150g of the positioning member 12150q, and the fixing hole 12150r of the intermediate portion 12150c. And, the bolt 12155 fixes the positioning member 12150q to the intermediate portion 12150c.
Figure 62 (d) presents a sectional view illustrating the step of attaching coupling 12150 to the member.
12151 extreme.
Coupling 12150 moves in direction X33, and the
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<img file="MX337559B_D0142.tif" />
Transmission part 12150b is inserted into the housing. The retention member 12156 is inserted in the direction of an arrow X33 to secure it to the end member 12151. Retaining member 12156 is playfully secured to positioning member 12150q. By this, coupling 12150 can change orientation. In this manner, a coupling unit having the coupling and end member 12151 is integrally provided.
The retaining portion 12156i mounts the coupling 12150 so that it can be moved (pivotally) between the rotational force transmitting angular position, the pre-engagement angular position, and the disengaging angular position. In addition, the retaining portion 12156I regulates the movement of the coupling 12150 in the direction of the axis L2. In other words, the opening 12156j has the diameter fi D15 less than the diameter of the retaining portion 12150I.
Similar to the 12150d projection, the surfaces
Rotational force transmission 12150hl or 12150h2 (rotational force transmission portions) are preferably arranged diametrically opposite on the same circumference.
The coupling and end member can be treated integrally by structure as described above. Through this, the handling at the time of assembly
150
INSTITUTE M.'iXICA'iO DE LA PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL of <sup>1 to</sup> dfi Figure 64,
Figure 63 (a)
Giving you Drincioal's is easy, and the best mounting can be achieved.
Referring to Figure 63 you will already describe the assembly of cartridge B.
presents a perspective view of the cartridge, as viewed from the drive side, and Figure 63 (b) presents a perspective view thereof, as viewed from the non-drive side. Furthermore, Figure 64 presents a sectional view taken along a line S23-S23 in Figure 63 (a). The developing roller 110 is rotatably mounted on the frame 119 of the developing device.
In the description described above, coupling 12150 and end member 12151 are mounted to the coupling unit. And, the unit U10 is mounted to the developing shaft 12153 by the end side of the developing roller 110, so that the transmission portion 12150a is exposed. And, the transmission part 12150a is mounted through an inner space 12157b of the support member 12157. Through this,
<td>the part</td><td>12150th of</td><td>transmission is</td><td>exposes</td><td>to</td><td>through</td><td>of</td>
<td>cartridge.</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td>
<td>What</td><td colspan="2">shown in Figure</td><td colspan="2">64, a</td><td>portion</td><td>from</td>
<td colspan="2">positioning for</td><td>roller 12110</td><td>12157e</td><td>from</td><td>revealed</td><td>I know</td>
provides on support member 12157. By this, the end member 12151 is securely retained.
IMP
151
INSTITUTO MEX | rA ».o of industrial property
<img file="MX337559B_D0143.tif" />
Here, as shown in Figure 66, ^ je L2 of coupling 12150 can be tilted in any direction relative to axis Ll. Figure 66 (al) - (a5) presents a view, as viewed from the drive shaft (180) side, and Figure 66 (bl) - (b5) presents the perspective view thereof. In Figure 66 (al) (bl), the L2 axis is co-axial with the Ll axis. Figure 65 (a2) (b2) illustrates the coupling 12150 in the state tilted upward from this state.
As the coupling is tilted toward the position of aperture 12151g, drive bolt 12155 moves along aperture 12151g (Figure 66 (a2) (b2)). As a result, the coupling 12150 is inclined on the axis AX perpendicular to the opening 12151g.
In Figure 66 (a3) (b3), coupling 12150 is tilted to the right. In this manner, when the coupling is tilted in the orthogonal direction of the opening 12151g, the bolt 12155 is rotated within the opening 12151g. The axis of rotation is the line AY of the axis of the 12155 transmission bolt.
The downward sloping coupling 12150 and the left sloping coupling are shown in Figures 66 (a4) (b4) and 66 (a5) (b5). Coupling 12150 is inclined on axis AX, AY of rotation.
With respect to the direction different from the tilt direction, and in the intermediate range, the rotation of the
152
IIVIFI
MEXICAN INSTITUTE A
OF THE PROPERTY '
INDUSTRIAL AX axis circumference and AY circumference rotation can be combined with each other, so that tilting is allowed. For example, the different directions of the tilt direction are Figures 66 (a2), (a3), (a3), (a4), (a4), (a5), (a5), and (a2). In this way, the L2 axis can be tilted in any direction relative to the axis.
Ll.
However, the L2 axis does not necessarily need to be capable of pivotal movement about 360 degrees relative to the Ll axis in a linear fashion at the predetermined angle in any direction. In that case, for example, the opening 12151g is set slightly wide in the circumferential direction. By such a configuration, when axis L2 is tilted relative to axis Ll, coupling 12150 is rotated a slight degree about axis L2, even if it is the case where it cannot be tilted at the predetermined angle in a linear manner. By this, the L2 axis can be tilted at the predetermined angle relative to the Ll axis. In other words, the play in the rotational direction of the opening 150g can be appropriately selected by one skilled in the art.
As described hereinabove, (Figure 64), spherical surface 12150I contacts retaining portion 12156i. For this reason, the axis of rotation of the coupling
12150 is on the center P2 of surface 12150Í
153
<img file="MX337559B_D0144.tif" />
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF SPHERICAL INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY. In other words, the shaft L2 is capable of pivotal movement regardless of the phase of the end member 12151. Also, as will be described below, for coupling 12150 to mesh with drive shaft 180, shaft L2 is inclined downstream in the rotational direction X4 relative to shaft Ll just before meshing. In other words, as shown in Figure 67, axis L2 is tilted relative to axis Ll, so that the driven portion 12150a is downstream relative to the rotational direction X4.
Figure 60 shows the state where the L2 axis is tilted relative to the Ll axis. Furthermore, Figure 65 presents a sectional view taken along a line S24-S24 in Figure 60.
By the structure described so far, the axis L2 in the inclined state shown in Figure 65 can also be made substantially parallel with the axis Ll. Furthermore, the maximum possible angle alpha 4 of inclination (Figure 65) between the axis Ll and the axis L2, is determined so that the range for the position where the driven portion 12150a and the intermediate portion 12150c contact the end member 12151 is covered. or support member 12157. And, angle alpha 4 is set to the value required for mounting and dismounting to the main mounting of the apparatus.
Here, in the case of the present embodiment, the angle alpha
154
<img file="MX337559B_D0145.tif" />
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0146.tif" />
maximum possible tilt is 20 degrees - <sup>fln</sup>
As described with respect to Mode 1, immediately before Cartridge Β (B5) is determined to the predetermined position of the main assembly A of the apparatus, or, substantially simultaneously with it being determined to the predetermined position, the Coupling 12150 and drive shaft 180 mesh with each other. More particularly, coupling 12150 and drive shaft 180 mesh with each other immediately prior to or substantially simultaneously with stoppage of rotary member C.
Referring to Figure 67, the engagement operation of this coupling 12150 will be described. Figure 67 presents a longitudinal sectional view of the main assembly A of the apparatus, as viewed from the bottom.
In the process of moving the cartridge B7 by the rotary member C, the axis L2 of the coupling 12150 is inclined in advance in the pre-engagement angular position to the rotational direction X4 relative to the axis Ll (Figure 67 (a)). In the direction of the Ll axis, the downstream free end position 12150Ά1 with respect to the rotational direction X4, is positioned on the direction side of the developing roller 12110 beyond the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft by tilting the coupling 12150 In addition, the free end position 12150A2 upstream with respect to the rotational direction X4, is positioned on the side
155
<img file="MX337559B_D0147.tif" />
direction of bolt 182 compared to<sup>,-</sup>5itLieiÍLU 180b3 free from drive shaft (Figure 67 (a)).
First, the free end position 12150A1 upstream with respect to the rotational direction X4 of the coupling 12150, passes through the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft. A part of the coupling (receiving surface 12150f and / or projection 12150d) which is the contact portion of the cartridge side, contacts the gear portion of the main mount side (the drive shaft 180 and / or the bolt
182), after step. The coupling is tilted so that the axis L2 becomes parallel to the axis Ll in response to the rotation of the rotating member C (Figure 67 (c)). And, when the developing cartridge B7 finally stops at the predetermined position (developing position) in the main assembly A of the apparatus (stop rotation of the rotating member), the drive shaft 180 and the developing roller 12110 will turn substantially co-axial to each other. And, the coupling 12150 is moved from the pre-gear angular position to the rotational force transmission angular position where the axis L2 is substantially co-axial with the axis Ll. And, coupling 12150 and drive shaft 180 mesh with each other (Figure 67 (d)). Coupling recess 12150z covers free end portion 180b.
As described hereinabove, the coupling
12150 mounts for tilt motion relative to
156
<img file="MX337559B_D0148.tif" />
it tilts without interfering with the drive shaft 180 in response 3 to the rotating operation of the rotating member C. By this, the coupling 12150 can be meshed with the drive shaft 180.
Similar to Mode 1, the engagement operation of the coupling 12150 described above can be carried out without distinction of the phase of the drive shaft 180 and the coupling 12150.
Thus, in this embodiment, coupling 12150 mounts to cartridge B7 for substantial rotation relative to developing roller 110.
Referring to FIG. 68, the rotational force transmission operation at the time of rotating the developing roller 110 will be described. The drive shaft 180 is rotated with the gear 181 (helical gear) in the direction of X8 in the Figure by the rotational force received from the motor 64 (drive source). Drive bolt 182 integral with drive shaft 180 contacts two of the four rotational force receiving surfaces 150e of coupling 12150 to rotate coupling 12150. In addition, as noted above, coupling 12150 engages with the developing roller 110 for the drive transmission. For this reason, the rotation of the coupling
12150 rotates the development roller 110 through the
157
IMPI
INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA PROPERTY INDUSTRIAL member 12151 extreme.
Also, even if axis L3 and axis Ll deviate slightly from co-axial relationships, the coupling can rotate without applying the large load to the development roller and drive shaft due to the coupling 12150 tilting slightly.
This is one of the salient effects according to one embodiment of the coupling of the present invention.
Referring to Figure 69, the description will be made regarding the operation of the coupling 12150 and so on at the time when the cartridge Β (B7) is moved to another station by the rotation of the rotating member C. Figure 69 presents a Longitudinal sectional view of the main assembly A of the apparatus, as viewed from the bottom. First, similarly to Mode 1, whenever cartridge B is moved from the position (developing position) where it opposes the photosensitive drum, bolt 182 is positioned in any two of the input portions 12150kl12150k4 (Figure 61) .
In the state where the rotating member C is at rest in the developing position, the axis L2 of the coupling 12150 is substantially co-axial relative to the axis Ll (rotational force transmission angular position).
When the rotary member C further starts the rotation to one direction after completion of the development, the
<img file="MX337559B_D0149.tif" />
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<img file="MX337559B_D0150.tif" />
Upstream receiving surface 12150f with respect to rotational direction X4 and / or projection 12150d of coupling 12150, contacts free end portion 180b of drive shaft 180, and / or bolt 182 (Figure 69a), in response to movement in the rotational direction X4 of cartridge B (developing roller 110). And, the L2 axis begins (Figure 69b) to tilt upstream in the X4 rotational direction. The direction of inclination (pre-engagement angular position) of the coupling at the time that the cartridge B moves from this direction to the developing position, is the substantially opposite in relation to the axis Ll. By the rotating operation of this rotating member C, the free end portion 12150A2 upstream with respect to the rotational direction X4 moves, while in contact with the drive shaft 180 (free end portion 180b). The L2 shaft of the 12150 coupling is tilted to the position (disengage angular position) where the portion
Upstream free end 150A2 reaches free end 180b3 of drive shaft (Figure 69c). And, in this state, the coupling 12150 is passed while in contact with the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft (Figure 69d). Subsequently, the cartridge B is fully retracted from the developing position by the rotating operation of the rotating member C.
As described above, the coupling
159
<img file="MX337559B_D0151.tif" />
12150 is mounted for tilting movement relative to axis Ll for cartridge B. And, coupling 12150 tilts without interfering with the drive shaft in response to rotational movement of rotating member C. By this, coupling 12150 can be disengaged from the shaft 180 impeller.
Coupling 12150 can be integrally driven with the end members (gear and so on) through the structure as described above. For this reason, the property of the mounting operation is improved.
The structure for tilting the shaft L2 of the coupling to the angular position of pre-engagement, immediately before the coupling meshes with the drive shaft, can employ any of mode 2-mode 5.
Mode 11:
Referring to Figure 70, Figure 71, and Figure 72, embodiment 11 will be described.
The present embodiment is different from Mode 10 in the position (coupling position) that the drive enters, and the structure that transmits the rotational force to the developing roller and developer supply roller of the coupling.
Figure 70 presents a perspective view of a cartridge according to the present embodiment. Figure 71 presents a perspective view illustrating a portion of
160
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-6. v. ££. INSTITUTE I
OF THE PRQPic ^ AO INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0153.tif" />
cartridge drive. Figure 72 (a) presents a perspective view of a drive input gear, as viewed from the drive side. Figure 72 (b) presents a perspective view of the drive input gear, as viewed from the non-drive side.
The developing gear 145 and the feed roll gear 146 are disposed at the lateral driving end portions of the developing roll 110 and the feed roll 115 (FIG. 1), respectively. Gears 145 and 146 are attached to the shaft. The rotational force received by coupling 13150 of the main A-mount of the apparatus is transmitted through the gear to the other rotating members (the developing roller 110, the developer supply roller 115, the agitation of the organic pigment or toner (not shown ), and so on) of cartridge Β (B6).
A drive input gear 13147 that supports coupling 13150 will be described.
section 13147j containing the coupling similar to the end member 12151 described in Mode 10 (Figure 72 (a)). Coupling 13150 is pivotally retained by a
As shown in Figure 71, gear 13147 is rotatably provided in the position for engagement with developing gear 145 and feed roll gear 146. Gear 13147 has the
161 retaining member 13156 on gear 13147.
i Mpj
MEXICAN INSTITUTE
OF THE PROPERTY VV · * '* <sup>Λ</sup>
INDUSTRIAL
In addition, support member 13157 and tilt adjustment member 13157I are mounted to cartridge B (Figure
70) .
The support member 13157 is provided with the hole and the inner surface 13157Í thereof meshes with the gear 13147. Taking into account that the gear, drive, and disengagement of the coupling by rotating operation of the rotating member are the same as those of Mode 10, the description is omitted for simplicity.
Furthermore, the structure for tilting the L2 shaft of the coupling to the angular position of pre-engagement, immediately before the coupling meshes with the drive shaft, may employ any of those of the mode
2- mode 5.
As described hereinabove, it is not necessary to arrange the coupling at the co-axial end with the developing roller. According to this embodiment, the latitude in the design of the body of the imaging device and the cartridge can be improved. According to this modality, similar effects are provided to Mode 9.
Mode 12:
Mode 12 will be described with reference to the
Figures 73 and 74.
In the Modalities previously described, the case of using the mechanism of
162
IMPI
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
<img file="MX337559B_D0154.tif" />
rotation selection (rotating member) as the movable member for the developing device (cartridge B). In this embodiment, another movable member will be described.
Figures 73 (a) and 73 (b) present sectional views showing a cartridge supporting member for supporting four cartridges Β (14B1 to 14B4). Figures 74 (a) to 74 (e) present perspective views and side views showing processes for engaging and disengaging a coupling relative to a drive shaft.
Referring to Figures 73 (a) and 73 (b), the respective cartridges Β (14B1 to 14B4) are disposed laterally in cross-section in a cartridge supporting member 14190 and removably mounted to the cartridge supporting member 14190. . Fig. 73 (a) presents a schematic view showing a state in which a first color cartridge 14B1 is located at a portion opposite a photosensitive drum 107 and is capable of developing relative to the photosensitive drum 107. When the cartridge 14B1 completes development, the support member 14190 moves in an X20 direction, so that an adjacent (second) color cartridge 14B2 is located at the opposite portion (development position) with respect to the drum 107. photosensitive. Incidentally, an image of the developer formed on the photosensitive drum 107 is transferred onto
163
IMPI
<img file="MX337559B_D0155.tif" />
a transfer band 104a. These operctclunes — ec —Siripi fren for each of the colors. Finally, as shown in Figure 73 (b), a fourth color cartridge 14B4 is moved to the opposite portion with respect to the photosensitive drum 107, so that the four-color developer images are transferred onto the transfer belt. Subsequently, the developer images are transferred from the transfer belt onto a recording material S and fixed on the recording material S.
Incidentally, each of the cartridges 14 is moved in a direction substantially perpendicular to a direction of the axial line L3 of the drive shaft 180 by moving the support member 14190 in one direction.
As a result, a color image is formed on the recording material S.
When a series of color image formation is completed, the support member 14190 moves in the direction X21 to be returned to an initial position (the state of Figure 73 (a)).
Next, with reference to Figures 74 (a) to 74 (e), the steps of connecting and disconnecting the coupling with respect to the drive shaft by means of the drive shaft will be described.
<td>movement</td><td>of the member</td><td>from</td><td>medium.</td><td colspan="2">Representatively,</td>
<td>will describe</td><td>the connection</td><td>Y</td><td>disconnection</td><td>cartridge</td><td>14B3 with</td>
<td>about</td><td colspan="2">a coupling</td><td>14150C. The</td><td>Figure 74 (a)</td><td>presents</td>
164
<img file="MX337559B_D0156.tif" />
IMPI
INSTITUTO MEXICANO Di LA PROPERTY INDUSTRIAL a perspective view showing a state of the 14150C coupling immediately before connection to the drive shaft 180 and Figure 74 (b) presents a side view thereof. Fig. 74 (c) presents a perspective view showing a state in which the coupling is connected to the drive shaft and is placed in a condition that can transmit drive force. Figure 74 (d) presents a perspective view showing a disconnected state of the drive shaft coupling and Figure 74 (e) presents a side view thereof.
In this embodiment, as a means of including the axial line L2, the constitution described in Mode 5 is used. That is, a regulating rib 14191 provided for main mounting of the apparatus is disposed along a lower side of a line L20 through which a coupling 14150C passes upstream of the drive shaft 180 with respect to a direction X20 of movement. Furthermore, similarly as in Mode 6, a distance between an upper surface 14191a of the regulating rib and the coupling 14150C is set to be smaller as the coupling 14150C approaches the drive shaft 180. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 74 (b), a direction of inclination of an axial line L is set so that a driven portion 14150Ca (portion to be driven) is directed upward with respect to line L20 (the direction of
165
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0157.tif" />
inclination is indicated by a line L30).
Here, when the development with the cartridge 14B2 is completed, the support member moves horizontally in one direction. By this movement, the cartridge 14B3 is moved to a predetermined position. During its process, an intermediate portion 14150Cc contacts the upper surface 14191a. At this time, as described in Mode 6, the driven portion 14150Ca is directed toward the drive shaft 180 (the pre-engagement angular position) (the state of Figure 74 (a)). Subsequently, similarly as in the aforementioned description, the coupling 14150C meshes with the drive shaft 180 (the rotational force transmission angular position) (the state of Figure 74 (c)). Subsequently, when imaging with cartridge 14B3 is completed, cartridge 14B3 moves in the X20 direction. Coupling 14150C disengages from drive shaft 180 (disengage angular position) (the state of Figure 74 (d)). The details are the same as those described above, so they are omitted.
As described above, developments with all attachments complete, support member 14190 is returned to the initial position (the state of Figure 74 (b)). An operation during a process thereof will be described. The coupling of each of the cartridges is required to pass
166
<img file="MX337559B_D0158.tif" />
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL
<img file="MX337559B_D0159.tif" />
through drive shaft 180. For this reason, the coupling, similarly as during development, is moved from the angular position of pre-engagement to the angular position of disengagement through the angular position of transmitting rotational force. For this purpose, it is necessary to employ a constitution to tilt the axial line L2. As shown in Figure 74 (d), a regulating rib 14192 similar to that described in Mode 6 is disposed along the upper side of line L20 through which coupling 14150C is passed. Rib 14192 is disposed upstream of drive axis 180 with respect to direction X21 of movement. Furthermore, the distance between the regulating rib 14192 and the line L20 is set in a similar manner as in the case of the regulating rib 14192. That is, regulating rib 14191 and regulating rib 14192 are established in a point symmetry relationship with respect to the center of drive shaft 180. Incidentally, as shown in FIG. 74 (e), a regulating direction of the 14150C coupling is not changed. For this reason the 14150C coupling also moves, in the initial stage (direction X21), from the angular position of pre-engagement to the angular position of disengagement through the angular position of transmission of rotational force by the same operation as during image formation (development) (during movement in the
<img file="MX337559B_D0160.tif" />
167
IMPI address X20). During this operation, coupling 14150C passes through drive shaft 180 and is subsequently returned to the home position.
In this embodiment, the cartridge is detachably supported from the imaging apparatus. During cartridge replacement, as shown in Figure 74 (a), the support member 14190 is rotationally moved in the X30 direction. Through this rotational movement, the user moves each of the cartridges 14B1 to 14B4 to a replaceable position.
Incidentally, in this embodiment, the direction of movement of the developing cartridge is obliquely upward but it can also be an opposite direction and the developing cartridge can be arranged so as to be movable in other directions.
In the above description, imaging (developing) is performed when the cartridge moves in one direction but is not performed when the cartridge moves to other directions. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when the cartridge is moved in other directions, imaging can be effected.
Mode 13
Mode 13 will be described with reference to Figure
In the above description, the cartridge that
168
<img file="MX337559B_D0161.tif" />
<img file="MX337559B_D0162.tif" />
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROHEDAD
INDUSTRIAL can be removably mounted to the main A-mount of the appliance. In this embodiment, such an image forming apparatus that the developing device like the developing apparatus is attached to a main assembly of the apparatus and imaging is effected by the real-time supply of the developer. That is, the developing device in this embodiment is mounted to the main assembly A of the apparatus by the user but is not disassembled. The developing device in this embodiment is of a fixed type in which the developing device is attached to the main assembly A of the apparatus and is used in a fixed state. Maintenance is done by a service person.
Figure 75 presents a sectional view of the main assembly of the apparatus.
As shown in Figure 75, a rotating member C2 includes four color developing devices 15A, 15B, 15C and 15D, mounted thereto. Rotating member C2 further includes developer bottles 16A, 16B, 16C, and 16D each for supplying a developer to an associated developing device. These bottles 16A, 16B, 16C and 16D are removably mounted to the main assembly A of the apparatus in a direction perpendicular to the drawing. When the developer is emptied into the bottle, the bottle is replaced by the user.
By rotating the rotating member C, each of
<img file="MX337559B_D0163.tif" />
169
IMPI the developing devices 15A, 15B, 15C and 15D are successively moved to a portion (developing position) opposite the photosensitive drum 107 and in the opposite portion a latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 107 is developed. Depending on the movement of each of the developing devices to the opposite portion, the coupling member (not shown) provided for the developing device, meshes with the drive shaft provided for the main assembly of the apparatus (not shown). Later, when imaging is complete, the cartridge (not shown) is disengaged from the drive shaft. This operation is similar to that in Mode 1 and the like, so its description is omitted.
As described above, even in the case of switching the drive of the fixed developing device to the main assembly of the apparatus, the operation can be performed similarly as in the cases of the above-described Modes.
Mode 14:
Referring to Figure 76, Figure 77, and Figure 78, embodiment 14 will be described.
These modes differ from Mode 11 in the configuration of the coupling, and in the provision of elastic material to maintain the coupling in the angular position of pre-engagement.
170
IMPí
<img file="MX337559B_D0164.tif" />
Figure 76 (a) presents a perspective view illustrating a part of cartridge B. Figure 76 (b) and Figure 76 (a) present sectional views taken along a line extended in the direction of inclination of the coupling shaft through the center of the drive input gear (the member that mounts the drive input gear is also illustrated). Figure 77 (a) presents a side view of the coupling alone. Figure 77 (b) presents a perspective view of the coupling alone. Figure 78 (a) presents a sectional view illustrating the state where the coupling (cartridge) is positioned in the angular position of pre-engagement. Figure 78 (b) presents a sectional view illustrating the state where the coupling (cartridge) is positioned in the rotational force transmission angular position. Figure 78 (c) presents a sectional view illustrating the state where the coupling (cartridge) is positioned in the angular position of disengagement. Figures 78 (a), (b), and (c) illustrate the positional relationships between coupling 15150 and drive shaft 180.
As shown in Figure 7-6, the developing gear 145 is disposed at the end of the developing roller 110. And, the gear 145 is fixed to the shaft 155 of the developing roller 110.
A drive input gear 15147 that mounts the coupling 15150 will be described.
171
<img file="MX337559B_D0165.tif" />
ΙΜΡΪ
As shown in Figure 76, the gear 15147 has the gear portion to mesh the gear with the development gear 145 15147a, and the gear portion 15147b to mesh the gear with the feed roll gear 146 (Figure 58) . And, gear 15147 is rotatably mounted to cartridge B by a member
15170 support and a support member 15157. The support member 15170 also functions as the support member for the development roller 110.
By this, the rotational force received by the coupling 15150 of the main assembly A of the apparatus is transmitted to the developing roller 110 through the bolt 15155 (rotational force transmission portion), the rotational force transmission surface 12151h (Figure 62 (a), (b), rotational force receiving portion), the gear
147, and gear 145.
Coupling 15150 is pivotally mounted to gear 15147 by a retaining portion 15147m (movable between said three angular positions).
In addition, the coupling 15150 is biased by a bias spring 15159 (elastic material) to maintain the angular position of pre-engagement. In this embodiment, spring 15159 is a spiral torsion spring. A support portion 15159a of spring 15159 is secured by a mounting portion (not shown) provided on cartridge B. And, a
172
IMP
I
<img file="MX337559B_D0166.tif" />
arm portion 15159b thereof elastically biases an intermediate portion 15150c of the coupling. By this, the shaft L2 of the coupling 15150 is held in the angular position of pre-engagement (Figure 78 (a)). In the present embodiment, a spring force (spring force) of spring 15159 is 5g-100g. If it is below 5g, the coupling cannot tilt properly due to friction force and so on. If it is more than 100g, the contact portion of the spring may be rubbed at the moment of rotation of the coupling. However, spring force other than this range may be employed depending on conditions such as cable diameter and spring material, and coupling material and configuration. Also, it is not limited to the spiral torsion spring.
More particularly, spring 15159 (elastic material) elastically biases coupling 15150. The elastic force thereof is such that it can maintain the 15150 coupling in the pre-gear angular position, while allowing the movement of the coupling from the pre-gear angular position to the rotational force transmission angular position (Figure 78 (b )), and allows the movement of the coupling 15150 from the rotational force transmission angular position to the disengaging angular position (Figure 78 (c)).
This also applies to spring 4159 (material
IMPI
<img file="MX337559B_D0167.tif" />
173 elastic) described by the modality of the mudalldcld 3 <sup>1</sup> and so on.
In addition, the cartridge B has the tilt regulating portion for adjusting the direction of the tilt of the coupling. Taking into account that this structure is the same as that of Mode 11, the description is omitted for simplicity.
As shown in Figure 77, couplings 15150 differ from coupling 12150 described in Mode 10 in the configuration of the actuated portion 15150a.
More particularly, an opening 15150m of the driven portion 15150a is provided with the recess 15150z and the flat portion 15150y. The recess 15150z contacts the free end portion 180b of the drive shaft 180 (Figure 78 (b)). As shown in Figure 78, when coupling 15150 reaches the rotational force transmission angular position (Figure 78 (b)) through the pre-gear angular position (Figure 78 (a)), the rotational force of shaft 180 The drive will be transmitted to the coupling 15150 through the bolt 182. In this embodiment, not the recess 15150z but the side of the drive shaft 180 is the flat 15150y portion. By this, the peripheral portion 182d (Figure 78 (a), (b), (c)) and the flat portion 15150y of the bolt engagement 182 can be brought closer to each other (Figure 78 (b)).
By this, the lengths of the
<img file="MX337559B_D0168.tif" />
174
IMPI
INSTITUTO MEXICANO D £ LA PROPERTY INDUSTRIAL cartridge B and the main assembly of the apparatus in the direction of the axis Ll, L3. Accordingly, the cartridge B and the main assembly of the apparatus can be reduced in size.
Here, an inside diameter Zl = fi of the flat portion 15150y 5 of the coupling used by this implementation is approximately 5mm. Furthermore, an outer diameter Z2 = fi thereof is approximately llmm. Also, a Z3 = depth of the flat portion is approximately 0.6mm. Also, a depth of the 15150z taper recess is about 1.5mm at the top of the taper, and the diameter of the taper is about 5mm. Also, a weight of the 15150 mesh is approximately 1.5g. In this embodiment, the material of the coupling is polyacetal. However, size and weight values are not inevitable, and can be appropriately selected by the person skilled in the art.
Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the projection 15150d (15150dl, d2) of the coupling is disposed in each of two places. By this, the width measured along the circumference of the input portion 150k (150kl, k2) can be lengthened. Accordingly, the entry of the bolt 182 to the entry portion 150k can be smoothed. Although the number of the projections can be appropriately selected, a plurality of projections is desirable. This is because the rotational force can be transmitted with high precision.
175
IMP
<img file="MX337559B_D0169.tif" />
Taking into account that the different configuration of this and the gear, drive, and disengagement of the coupling by rotating operation of the rotating member are the same as those of Mode 10, the description is omitted for simplicity.
Furthermore, the structure for inclining the coupling shaft to the angular position of pre-engagement, can employ any of the mode 2-mode 5.
Furthermore, in this embodiment, the coupling 15150 is provided remote from the Ll axis in the direction perpendicular to the Ll axis (Figure 76 (b)).
In this embodiment, the coupling is arranged in such a position. For this reason, latitude in the design of the main assembly of the apparatus and the cartridge can be improved. When the coupling is arranged co-axially with the axis Ll, the position of the coupling will move closer to the photosensitive drum. For this reason, it is a restriction for the coupling arrangement, but in the present embodiment, the restriction of the photosensitive drum is mitigable.
As described hereinbefore, in this embodiment, the coupling 15150 has a circular flat portion 15150y on the free end side. A recess 15150z is provided at the center 0 of the flat (circular) portion 15150y. The recess 15150z has a conical shape that expands to the free end side of the recess. In addition,
<img file="MX337559B_D0170.tif" />
176 yes, of of of
IMPI projections 15150d (rotational force receiving portions) are arranged on the edge of the circular flat portion 15150y in the diametrically opposite position that intervenes at the center 0 (two positions). These projections project in the direction of the axis L2 of rotation of the coupling. Furthermore, the bolts 182 (rotational force application potions) project in the directions perpendicular to the L3 (τ) axis to provide projections at the two opposite places respectively. Any of the rotational force receiving surfaces 15150e (rotational force receiving portions) meshes with one of the bolt projections 182. And, the other of the rotational force receiving surfaces 15150e meshes with the other of the projections 182 of the bolt. By this, from the drive shaft 180, the coupling 15150 receives the rotational force and is rotated.
Here, in accordance with the modalities described above, in the structure of moving the cartridge B (developing roller 110) in the direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of the axis L3 of the driving axis 180, in response to the movement towards the only direction of the member rotary C (support member 14190), coupling 150 (1350, 3150, 4150, 5150, 7150, 8150, 9150,
10150, 12150, 13150, 15150 and so on) can achieve coupling, gearing, and disengagement operation m
ίο
IMPI
Mexican Institute of Industrial Property
<img file="MX337559B_D0171.tif" />
relative to the drive shaft 180. This is accomplished because. This coupling can take the following positions as described above: 1. The rotational force transmission angular position for transmitting the rotational force from the main assembly A of the apparatus to the developing roller 110; two. This pre-gear angular position inclined from this rotational force transmission angular position before this engagement meshes with the rotational force applying portion; and 3. The angular position of disengagement inclined to the opposite side of the angular position of pre-engagement of the angular position of transmission of rotational force so that the coupling is
<td colspan="4">disengage the drive shaft.</td>
<td>Here,</td><td>the</td><td>angular position of</td><td>transmission of force</td>
<td>rotational</td><td>it is</td><td>angular position</td><td>coupling for</td>
<td>to transmit</td><td>the</td><td>rotational force for</td><td>rotate the roller</td>
110 developing roller 110.
Furthermore, the pre-engagement angular position is the angular position which is inclined from the rotational force transmitting angular position and which is taken before the drum engaging member meshes with the rotational force applying portion.
Also, the angular position of disengagement is the angular position that is inclined to the opposite side of the angular position of pre-engagement from the angular position of
178
<img file="MX337559B_D0172.tif" />
<img file="MX337559B_D0173.tif" />
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL transmission of rotational force and that allows the disengagement of the impeller shaft 180 coupling.
Here, the meaning of substantially perpendicular will be described. Here, the description will be made about substantially perpendicular. Between the cartridge b and the main assembly A of the apparatus and to smoothly mount and remove the cartridge B, small gaps are provided. More specifically, small gaps are provided between guide 140R1 and guide 130R1 with respect to the longitudinal direction, between guide 140R2 and guide 130R2 with respect to the longitudinal direction, between guide 140L1 and guide 130L1 with respect to the longitudinal direction and between guide 140L2 and guide 130L2 with respect to the longitudinal direction. Accordingly, at the time of assembly and disassembly of the cartridge B relative to the main assembly A of the apparatus, the entire cartridge B may be slightly inclined within the limits of the gaps. For this reason, perpendicularity is not strictly assumed. However, even in such a case, the present invention is achieved with the effects thereof. Accordingly, the term "substantially perpendicular" covers the case where the cartridge is tilted slightly.
Between the cartridge b and the cartridge housing portion 130A, small gaps are provided to smoothly mount and remove the cartridge B, more specifically, the
<img file="MX337559B_D0174.tif" />
179 small gaps are provided between T- «g<sup>1</sup><sup>3</sup> 14 ORI or 140R2 and guide 130R1 with respect to the longitudinal direction, between guide 140L1 or 140L2 and guide 130L1 with respect to the longitudinal direction. Accordingly, upon assembly and disassembly of the cartridge b relative to the housing portion 130A, the entire cartridge B may tilt slightly within the limits of the gaps. In addition, slight positional deviation may occur between the rotating member C (movable member) and the drive shaft (180). For this reason, perpendicularity is not strictly assumed. However, even in such a case, the present invention is achieved with the effects thereof. Accordingly, the term "substantially perpendicular" covers the case where the cartridge is tilted slightly.
It has been described that the L2 axis can be skewed or can be tilted in any direction relative to the Ll axis. However, the L2 axis does not necessarily need to be able to skew linearly to the predetermined angle over the full range of the 360 degree direction at the coupling 150. For example, the aperture 150g may be selected to be slightly wider in the circumferential direction. By doing this, as the L2 axis is tilted relative to the Ll axis, even if it is the case where it cannot be tilted to the predetermined angle in a linear manner, the
180
<img file="MX337559B_D0175.tif" />
<img file="MX337559B_D0176.tif" />
INSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA PROPERTY industrial coupling 150 can rotate at a slight degree around the L2 axis. Accordingly, it can be tilted at the predetermined angle. In other words, the amount of play in the rotational direction of the opening 150g is appropriately selected if necessary.
In this manner, the coupling 150 is rotatable or oscillating substantially over the entire circumference relative to the axis Ll of the developing roller 110. More particularly, the coupling 150 is capable of pivotal movement over substantially the entire circumference thereof relative to the axis 153 of the drum.
Furthermore, as will be understood from the foregoing explanation, the coupling 150 is capable of torsional vibration in and substantially about the circumferential direction of the drum axis 153. Here, the vortex motion is not a motion with which the coupling itself is rotated about the L2 axis, but the inclined L2 axis is rotated about the LL axis of the developing roller, although the torsional vibration here does not preclude the rotation of the coupling per is on axis L2 of coupling 150.
Furthermore, as described hereinbefore, each coupling has the function of transmitting the rotational force to the developing roller 110.
And each coupling has force receiving surface 150e (8150e, 9150e, 9250e, 9350e, 9450e, 15150e)
181
IMPI
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
<img file="MX337559B_D0177.tif" />
rotational (rotational force receiving portion) to receive the rotational force of the driving shaft 180 (1180, 1280, 9180) by meshing with the bolt 182 (1182, 9182) (rotational force applying portion). In addition, it has the rotational force transmission surface 150h (1550h, 1450h, 8150h, 9150h, 12150h, 12151h, and so on) (rotational force transmitting portion) that transmits the received rotational force through the receiving portion 150e of rotational force to the developing roller 110. The rotational force received by the rotational force transmitting surface 150h is transmitted to the developing roller 110 through the bolt 155 (1155, 1355, 12155) (rotational force receiving portion).
And, this coupling moves from this pre-gear angular position to this rotational force transmission angular position in response to the movement of the cartridge B at the time that the rotating member C (support member 141190) (movable member) becomes rotate in one direction (motion). By this, this coupling opposes this drive shaft. When the rotary member C is rotated further in said one direction from the position where the coupling opposes the drive shaft (motion), the coupling moves from the rotational force transmitting angular position to the disengaging angular position in response to the movement of cartridge B. By this, the
182
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF PROPERTY
INDUSTRIAL coupling disengages from drive shaft.
The coupling has the recess' or cavity 150z (1450z,
1550z, 4150z, 5150z, 15150z, 15150z, and so on) on the L2 axis of rotation. And, the cartridge B moves in the direction substantially perpendicular to the axis Ll of the roller
110 developing by rotating the rotating member C in said one direction. In response to this, each coupling moves from the pre-gear angular position to the rotational force transmission angular position, so that a part of the coupling (position 150A1, 1850A1, 4150A1, 5150A1, 8150A1, 12150A1 extreme free current downstream and so on) which is the downstream portion with respect to the rotational direction of the rotating member C, it is allowed to circumvent the drive shaft. By this, the recess covers the free end of the drive shaft. And, the rotational force receiving portion meshes, in the rotational direction of the coupling, with the rotational force applying portion projecting in the direction perpendicular to the axis of the driving shaft on the side of the free end of the driving shaft. By this, from the drive shaft, the coupling receives the rotational force and is rotated. And, the rotary member C is further moved to said one direction. By this, the cartridge B moves in the direction substantially perpendicular to the axis Ll. This responds to this, the coupling moves to the position
183
IMPI
<img file="MX337559B_D0178.tif" />
angular disengagement, in the rolling direction, of rotational force transmission angular position, so that a part of the driving shafts upstream of this coupling member (position 150A2, 1750A2, 4150A2, 5150A2, 12150A2 extreme free upstream and so on) it is allowed to circumvent the drive shaft. By this, the coupling disengages from the drive shaft.
The rotational force receiving portions (150e, 15150e, and so on) are arranged, respectively, on a phantom circle CI having a center O on the rotation axis Ll of each coupling, in diametrically opposite positions that are interposed to the center. 0. The forces received through the couplings by this arrangement are force couplings. For this reason, couplings can continue rotary motion only with force coupling. In view of this, each coupling can rotate without determining the position of the axis of rotation.
The reference numbers in the drawing that do not appear in the specification are the corresponding members in the case that the alphabets of the same are the same.
The other modalities:
In this embodiment, although the rotary member is rotated in the clockwise direction in the drawing (Figure 17, for example), it can be rotated in a clockwise direction.
<img file="MX337559B_D0179.tif" />
184
IMPI the opposite direction. Also, the position of image formation (developing position) can be another position.
Furthermore, the rotating member of the present embodiment carries the four color developing cartridges. However, the developing cartridge for black can be fixed and the cartridges for the other three colors can be carried on the rotating member.
Also, in this embodiment, the developing roller is a contact developing type roller and uses an elastic roller, but it can be a metal sleeve containing a magnet roller used by jump development.
The developing cartridge and the developing device are provided with at least the developing roller (or developing means including the developing roller). For this reason, for example, the developing cartridge (developing device) is the developing roller. Or, it may be a cartridge which integrally includes the developing means including the developing roller and the cleaning means and which can be removably mounted to the main assembly of the apparatus, further for the type in the above-described embodiment, furthermore, it may be a cartridge that integrally includes the developing roller (or developing means including the developing roller) and the charging means and can be removably mounted to the main assembly of the apparatus.
185
<img file="MX337559B_D0180.tif" />
ΙΜΡΪ
MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY
Furthermore, in this embodiment, although a laser beam printer is taken as an imaging device, the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, the present invention can be used for other imaging apparatus, such as an electrophotographic copy machine, a facsimile device, or a word processor. According to the above-described embodiments, engagement and disengagement of the coupling are possible in the direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of the drive shaft provided in the main assembly of the electrophotographic imaging apparatus relative to the drive shaft by moving in a direction of the drive shaft. movable member (the rotating member, eg, the member supporting the cartridge, the detachable chassis).
As described hereinabove, the axis of the coupling can take the different angular positions in the present invention. More particularly, the coupling shaft can take the pre-engagement angular position, the rotational force transmission angular position, and the disengagement angular position. The coupling may mesh with the drive shaft in the direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of the drive shaft of the main assembly provided by this structure. In addition, the coupling can disengage from the drive shaft in the direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of the shaft.
186
IMPI
<img file="MX337559B_D0181.tif" />
applied to a coupling of the impeller imaging. The present invention can develop device, a drum member, and an electrophotographic device.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
In accordance with the present invention, It is possible to provide a developing apparatus capable of engaging a coupling member provided for the developing apparatus (developing cartridge) with a drive shaft by moving the developing apparatus (developing cartridge) in a direction substantially perpendicular to a direction. axial drive shaft even in the case where a main mount is not provided with a mechanism for moving a mating member from the main mount side in the direction axial using a solenoid. According to the present invention, it is also possible to provide an electrophotographic imaging apparatus using the developing apparatus and the coupling member used in the developing apparatus.
While the invention has been described with reference to the structures described herein, it is not confined to the stated details and this application is intended to cover such modifications or changes as long as they fall within the scope of the claims.
improvements or the scope of the following
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Contents148
256 sheets
Sheet 1 Sheet 2 Sheet 3 Sheet 4 Sheet 5 Sheet 6 Sheet 7 Sheet 8 Sheet 9 Sheet 10 Sheet 11 Sheet 12 Sheet 13 Sheet 14 Sheet 15 Sheet 16 Sheet 17 Sheet 18 Sheet 19 Sheet 20 Sheet 21 Sheet 22 Sheet 23 Sheet 24 Sheet 25 Sheet 26 Sheet 27 Sheet 28 Sheet 29 Sheet 30 Sheet 31 Sheet 32 Sheet 33 Sheet 34 Sheet 35 Sheet 36 Sheet 37 Sheet 38 Sheet 39 Sheet 40 Sheet 41 Sheet 42 Sheet 43 Sheet 44 Sheet 45 Sheet 46 Sheet 47 Sheet 48 Sheet 49 Sheet 50 Sheet 51 Sheet 52 Sheet 53 Sheet 54 Sheet 55 Sheet 56 Sheet 57 Sheet 58 Sheet 59 Sheet 60 Sheet 61 Sheet 62 Sheet 63 Sheet 64 Sheet 65 Sheet 66 Sheet 67 Sheet 68 Sheet 69 Sheet 70 Sheet 71 Sheet 72 Sheet 73 Sheet 74 Sheet 75 Sheet 76 Sheet 77 Sheet 78 Sheet 79 Sheet 80 Sheet 81 Sheet 82 Sheet 83 Sheet 84 Sheet 85 Sheet 86 Sheet 87 Sheet 88 Sheet 89 Sheet 90 Sheet 91 Sheet 92 Sheet 93 Sheet 94 Sheet 95 Sheet 96 Sheet 97 Sheet 98 Sheet 99 Sheet 100 Sheet 101 Sheet 102 Sheet 103 Sheet 104 Sheet 105 Sheet 106 Sheet 107 Sheet 108 Sheet 109 Sheet 110 Sheet 111 Sheet 112 Sheet 113 Sheet 114 Sheet 115 Sheet 116 Sheet 117 Sheet 118 Sheet 119 Sheet 120 Sheet 121 Sheet 122 Sheet 123 Sheet 124 Sheet 125 Sheet 126 Sheet 127 Sheet 128 Sheet 129 Sheet 130 Sheet 131 Sheet 132 Sheet 133 Sheet 134 Sheet 135 Sheet 136 Sheet 137 Sheet 138 Sheet 139 Sheet 140 Sheet 141 Sheet 142 Sheet 143 Sheet 144 Sheet 145 Sheet 146 Sheet 147 Sheet 148 Sheet 149 Sheet 150 Sheet 151 Sheet 152 Sheet 153 Sheet 154 Sheet 155 Sheet 156 Sheet 157 Sheet 158 Sheet 159 Sheet 160 Sheet 161 Sheet 162 Sheet 163 Sheet 164 Sheet 165 Sheet 166 Sheet 167 Sheet 168 Sheet 169 Sheet 170 Sheet 171 Sheet 172 Sheet 173 Sheet 174 Sheet 175 Sheet 176 Sheet 177 Sheet 178 Sheet 179 Sheet 180 Sheet 181 Sheet 182 Sheet 183 Sheet 184 Sheet 185 Sheet 186 Sheet 187 Sheet 188 Sheet 189 Sheet 190 Sheet 191 Sheet 192 Sheet 193 Sheet 194 Sheet 195 Sheet 196 Sheet 197 Sheet 198 Sheet 199 Sheet 200 Sheet 201 Sheet 202 Sheet 203 Sheet 204 Sheet 205 Sheet 206 Sheet 207 Sheet 208 Sheet 209 Sheet 210 Sheet 211 Sheet 212 Sheet 213 Sheet 214 Sheet 215 Sheet 216 Sheet 217 Sheet 218 Sheet 219 Sheet 220 Sheet 221 Sheet 222 Sheet 223 Sheet 224 Sheet 225 Sheet 226 Sheet 227 Sheet 228 Sheet 229 Sheet 230 Sheet 231 Sheet 232 Sheet 233 Sheet 234 Sheet 235 Sheet 236 Sheet 237 Sheet 238 Sheet 239 Sheet 240 Sheet 241 Sheet 242 Sheet 243 Sheet 244 Sheet 245 Sheet 246 Sheet 247 Sheet 248 Sheet 249 Sheet 250 Sheet 251 Sheet 252 Sheet 253 Sheet 254 Sheet 255 Sheet 256
164 members in 20 offices
Priority claims10
| Document | Office | Kind | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2007076771 | Japan | – | |
| 2007076771 | Japan | A | |
| 2007076771 | Japan | A | |
| 2008073685 | Japan | – | |
| 2008073685 | Japan | A | |
| 2008073685 | Japan | A | |
| 2007076771 | – | – | – |
| 2008073685 | – | – | – |
| JP20070076771 | – | – | – |
| JP20080073685 | – | – | – |
Members164
| Document | Office | Kind | |
|---|---|---|---|
| AU2008230339A1 | Australia | A1 | |
| CA2671325A1 | Canada | A1 | |
| CA2953639A1 | Canada | A1 | |
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| MX337559BThis record | Mexico | B | |
| JP5901729B2 | Japan | B2 | |
| TWI531877B | Taiwan Province of China | B | |
| EP2137577B1 | European Patent Office (EPO) | B1 | |
| TW201624155A | Taiwan Province of China | A | |
| PT2137577T | Portugal | T | |
| JP2016139146A | Japan | A | |
| US2016238988A9 | United States of America | A9 | |
| MX342302B | Mexico | B | |
| EP3079018A1 | European Patent Office (EPO) | A1 | |
| ES2588333T3 | Spain | T3 | |
| DE112008000214B4 | Germany | B4 | |
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| US2017090412A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| US2017090413A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
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| US2017102634A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
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| US2017185030A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| US2017185031A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
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| US2017227920A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| JP2017151488A | Japan | A | |
| MX351395B | Mexico | B | |
| US9817333B2 | United States of America | B2 | |
| US9836015B2 | United States of America | B2 | |
| US9841724B2 | United States of America | B2 | |
| US9851685B2 | United States of America | B2 | |
| US9851688B2 | United States of America | B2 |
Numbers
- Publication
- 337559
- Publication, DOCDB
- 337559
- Publication, EPODOC
- MX337559
- Application
- 2014004413
- Application, DOCDB
- 2014004413
- Application, EPODOC
- MX20140004413
Titles2
- Spanish
- APARATO QUE FORMA IMAGENES ELECTROFOTOGRAFICAS, APARATO DE REVELADO, Y MIEMBRO DE ACOPLAMIENTO.
- English
- ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS, DEVELOPING APPARATUS, AND COUPLING MEMBER.
Classification
- CPC, 17
- F16D1/10
- G03G15/06
- G03G21/16
- G03G21/186
- F16D3/04
- G03G15/0896
- G03G2215/0177
- G03G2221/1657
- G03G15/0121
- G03G15/0173
- G03G21/1647
- G03G21/1676
- G03G15/08
- F16D1/101
- G03G15/0865
- G03G15/081
- G03G15/0815
- IPC, 2
- G03G15 06
- G03G15 08