Developing device, developing cartridge, rotational force transmitting part and electrophotographic image forming apparatus.

DEVELOPMENT DEVICE, DEVELOPMENT CARTRIDGE, ROTATIONAL FORCE TRANSMISSION COMPONENT, AND ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGE FORMATION DEVICE

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a relief device, a developing cartridge, a rotational force transmission component, and an electrophotographic imaging apparatus with which the developing cartridge is used.

The electrophotographic imaging apparatus forms an image on a recording material using an electrophotographic imaging process. The electrophotographic imaging apparatus includes a copying electrophotographic machine, an electrophotographic printer (a laser beam printer, an LED printer), and so on.

Furthermore, the developer cartridge is removably installed in a main assembly of the electrophotographic imaging apparatus, and reveals a latent electrostatic image formed on the photosensitive electrophotographic member. When a user removes the developer cartridge, a maintenance operation of the imaging apparatus is in fact carried out.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Conventionally, in the electrophotographic imaging apparatus, when the latent electrostatic image formed on the photosensitive electrophotographic member (photosensitive drum) of a drum configuration is developed using the developing cartridge, the operation is carried out as follows.

The developer cartridge is provided with a gear, and mates with a gear provided in the main assembly of the electrophotographic imaging apparatus. A rotational force from a motor provided in the main assembly is transmitted to a developer roller through the gear provided in the main assembly, and the gear provided on the side of the developer cartridge. To date, such a type of development roller rotation is known (Japanese Patent Application Open to Public Inspection 2003-202727).

In a known color electrophotographic imaging apparatus, a rotating developing member is rotated in a state that a plurality of developing devices are installed in a main assembly. In this device, in order to transmit the rotational force of the main assembly to the developer cartridge, the following structures are known. The lateral coupling of the main assembly provided in the main assembly, and a coupling of the developing device of the developing device installed in the rotating developing member are connected to each other. By this, the rotational force is transmitted from the main assembly to the developing device. And, by connecting the side coupling of the main assembly to each other, and the side coupling of the developing device, the side coupling of the main set retracts once into the device so that it does not interfere with the movement of the rotating developing member . The rotating developing member is then moved, to move a certain developing device toward the side engagement of the main assembly. Thereafter, the side engagement of the main assembly, retracted using a movement mechanism, such as a solenoid, is moved toward the side engagement of the developing device. By this, both couplings are connected to each other, and the rotational force provided in the main assembly is transmitted to the developing roller through the lateral coupling of the main assembly, and the lateral coupling of the developing device. By this, the developing roller is rotated. Such type is known (Common Japanese Patent Application Open to Public Inspection 11-015265).

However, in accordance with the conventional structure described in Japanese Open Patent Application for Public Inspection No. 2003-202727, a drive connection portion of the main assembly, and the developing device is of a gear-to-gear type. For this reason, it is difficult to avoid irregularities in the development roller rotation.

On the other hand, in the structure described in Japanese Open Patent Application for Public Inspection Hei 11015265, as described earlier in this text, the side engagement of the main assembly retracts once. To transmit the rotational force, it is necessary for the side coupling of the main assembly to move towards the side coupling of the developing device.

Then, it is necessary that a mechanism be provided in the main assembly to move the side coupling of the main assembly towards the side coupling of the developing device.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The main objective of the present invention is to provide a developing device, a developing cartridge, and an electrophotographic imaging apparatus that can be used with the developing device or the developing cartridge, which are improved to avoid the problem. of the prior art.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a rotational force transmission component that can be used with such a developer cartridge.

A further object of the present invention is to maintain a coupling member in a pre-coupling angular position (second angular position) even in the case where the developer cartridge is in a free state. Therefore inadvertent movement of the coupling member is avoided during transport of the developer cartridge for example.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a rotational force transmission component that can be used with such a developer cartridge. A further object of the present invention is to provide an electrophotographic imaging apparatus that can be used with such a developer cartridge.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a developing device (developing cartridge) which can be used with the main assembly, which is not provided with the mechanism to move the side coupling member of the main assembly in the axial direction thereof by a solenoid mechanism.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a developing device (developing cartridge) wherein the coupling member provided in the developing device (developing cartridge) is coupled with the drive shaft the developing device (developing cartridge) in the direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of the motor shaft relative to the main assembly.

A further object of the present invention is to provide an electrophotographic imaging apparatus that can be used with a developing device (developing cartridge).

A further object of the present invention is to provide a developing device (developing cartridge), wherein engagement with the drive shaft is accomplished by movement in the direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of the drive shaft provided in the assembly main of the electrophotographic imaging apparatus.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a rotational force transmitting component that can be used with such a developing device (developing cartridge).

A further object of the present invention is to provide an electrophotographic imaging apparatus that can be used with a developing device (developing cartridge).

A further object of the present invention is to provide a developing device (developing cartridge), wherein the developing roller is rotated smoothly compared to the case in which a drive connection, and the developing device (developing cartridge developed) is carried out by the gear-to-gear transmission.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a rotational force transmission component that can be used with such a developer cartridge.

A further object of the present invention is to provide an electrophotographic imaging apparatus that can be used with such a developing device (developing cartridge).

A further object of the present invention is to provide a developing device (developing cartridge), wherein the developing roller, which can be coupled with the drive shaft in the direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of the drive shaft provided in the main assembly is gently rotated.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a rotational force transmitting component that can be used with such a developing device (developing cartridge).

A further object of the present invention is to provide an electrophotographic imaging apparatus that can be used with such a developing device (developing cartridge).

A further object of the present invention is to provide a developing device (developing cartridge) which engages and disengages in the direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction relative to the motor axis provided in the main assembly of the imaging apparatus electrophotographic by rotating a rotating member.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a rotational force transmitting component that can be used with such a developing device (developing cartridge).

A further object of the present invention is to provide an electrophotographic imaging apparatus that can be used with such a developing device (developing cartridge).

A further object of the present invention is to provide the developing device (developing cartridge) which engages and disengages in the direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of the drive shaft, relative to the drive shaft provided in the main assembly, by the movement (rotation) of a movable member (rotating member) and which gently rotates the development roller.

<td>An objective</td><td>additional</td><td>of</td><td>the</td><td colspan="2">present invention is</td>

<td>provide a</td><td>component</td><td>of</td><td colspan="2">Transmission of</td><td>the force</td>

<td>rotational it</td><td>You can use</td><td>with</td><td>such</td><td>device</td><td>of revealed</td>

(developer cartridge).

A further object of the present invention provides an electrophotographic imaging apparatus that can be used with such a developing device (developing cartridge).

A further object of the present invention is to provide a developing device (developing cartridge), wherein the coupling member is held in the angular pre-coupling position, in a state where it is stabilized.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a rotational force transmitting component that can be used with such a developing device (developing cartridge).

A further object of the present invention is to provide an electrophotographic imaging apparatus that can be used with such a developing device (developing cartridge).

A further object of the present invention is to provide a developing device (developing cartridge), wherein the coupling member is securely held in the angular pre-coupling position.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a coupling force transmitting component that can be used with such a developing device (developing cartridge).

A further object of the present invention is to provide an electrophotographic imaging apparatus that can be used with such a developing device (developing cartridge).

A further object of the present invention is to provide a developing device (developing cartridge) which can be applied to the case where the developing device (developing cartridge) moves in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the drive shaft provided in the main assembly, in response to movement (rotation) of the movable member (rotary developer member) which has an oscillating axis of rotation.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a developing device (developing cartridge), where, even in such a case, coupling and decoupling to the drive shaft is ensured, and the developing roller is rotated smoothly.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a rotational force transmitting component that can be used with such a developing device (developing cartridge).

A further object of the present invention is to provide an electrophotographic imaging apparatus that can be used with such a developing device (developing cartridge).

A further object of the present invention is to provide a developing device in which a developing roller which is rotatable can be brought into contact with the photosensitive electrophotographic member.

A further object of the present invention is to provide an electrophotographic imaging apparatus that can be used with such a developing device.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a rotational force transmission component that can be used with such a developing device.

Furthermore, a further object of the present invention is to provide a developing device, where even if a fixed drive shaft is attached, so as not to be movable in the direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of the drive shaft axis, the development roll in the rotating state and the photosensitive electrophotographic member can be contacted with each other.

A further object of the present invention is to provide an electrophotographic imaging apparatus, said member including, a rotational force receiving portion that can be coupled with the rotational force applying portion to receive a rotational force. rotation from the drive shaft, and a rotational force transmitting portion for transmitting the received rotational force through said rotational force receiving portion to said developing roller, said coupling member may take an angular position of rotational force transmission to transmit rotational force to said developing roller, to rotate said developing roller, a pre-coupling position which is taken before said coupling member is coupled with the rotational force application portion and in which said coupling member tilts in the opposite direction of said angular transmission position of the rotational force, and an angular disengagement position which is taken so that said coupling member disengages from the drive shaft and in which the coupling member tilts in the opposite direction of the angular position of transmission of rotational force in a direction opposite to said angular pre-coupling position, wherein, in response to a movement of said developing device, when the movable member moves in said one direction, said coupling member moves from the angular position of pre-coupling to the angular position of transmission of rotational force, and where, when the moving member makes an additional movement in said one direction, in response to the additional movement, said member coupling moves from said angular position of transmission of rotational force to said angular decoupling position, to decouple said coupling member from said motor shaft, and where, said developing roller is contacted with said photosensitive electrophotographic member in response to movement of said developing device, in a state where the developing roller is being rotated through the coupling between said coupling member and said application portion of rotational force.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an electrophotographic imaging apparatus for imaging on a recording material, said electrophotographic imaging apparatus comprising i) a drive shaft which can be rotated by a motor having a rotational force applying portion, wherein said motor axis cannot be moved in a direction perpendicular to an axis thereof; ii) a mobile member; iii) a developing device which is movable in a direction substantially perpendicular to an axial direction of the motor shaft in response to movement of the movable member in a state that the developing device is mounted on said movable member, in response to movement of said movable member, said developer roller including a developer roller for developing a latent electrostatic image formed on a photosensitive electrophotographic drum, said developing roller rotatable about an axis, wherein said developing roller is contacted and separated from said photosensitive electrophotographic member drum in response to movement of said moving member; iv) a coupling member for transmitting a rotational force to said developing roller, said coupling member including, a rotational force receiving portion that can engage with the rotational force applying portion, for receiving a rotational force from the drive shaft, and a rotational force transmitting portion for transmitting the received rotational force through said rotational force receiving portion, to said developing roller, said coupling member which is capable of taking an angular position of transmitting rotational force to transmit rotational force, to rotate said developing roller to said developing roller, an angular position of pre-coupling which is taken before said coupling member engages said rotational force applying portion and in which, said coupling member is tilted in the opposite direction of said angular position of transmission of rotational force, and an angular decoupling position, which is taken so that said coupling member is decoupled from the drive shaft and in which said coupling member tilts in the opposite direction of the angular position of transmission of rotational force in a direction opposite to said angular position of pre-coupling, to disengage from the drive shaft, wherein, in response to a movement of said developing device, when the movable member moves in said one direction, said coupling member moves from the pre-coupling angular position to the angular position of transmission of rotational force and , where, when the mobile member makes an additional movement in said one direction, in response to further movement said coupling member removes from said angular position of transmission of rotational force to said angular decoupling position, to decouple said coupling member from said drive shaft and, wherein, said developing roller is brought into contact with said photosensitive electrophotographic member in response to movement of said developing device in a state where the developing roller is being rotated through the coupling between said coupling member and said application portion of the rotational force.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a coupling device that can be used with an electrophotographic imaging apparatus, said apparatus including a rotating drive shaft having a rotational force applying portion. , and a rotary rotary, said developing device that can be moved in a direction substantially perpendicular to an axial direction of the motor shaft, in response to rotation of said press with said developing device mounted on said press, said developing device comprising i) a developing roller for developing a latent electrostatic image formed on a drum of the photosensitive electrophotographic member; ii) a developer housing portion for housing a developer to be used by said developer roller to develop the latent electrostatic image; iii) a coupling member for transmitting a rotational force to said developing roller in a state where the developing cartridge is mounted on said rotary, said coupling member including a rotational force receiving portion for coupling with the portion of application of the rotational force to receive said driving shaft, the rotational force of the driving shaft, wherein the drive shaft cannot be moved in a direction substantially perpendicular to an axial direction of said drive shaft; iv) a regulating member including a regulating portion for regulating said coupling member in a pre-coupling angular position, prior to coupling with the drive shaft, and including an authorization portion to allow said coupling member to turn substantially ; v) an elastic member for elastically driving said coupling member to the position of said coupling member in the regulating portion, where, when said rotary rotates, said coupling member moves from the angular position of pre-coupling to a angular position of transmission of rotational force, in response to movement of said coupling member from the regulating portion to the authorization portion against an elastic force 5 of said elastic member by said coupling member contacting said drive shaft member of said developing cartridge, and when said press rotates additionally, said coupling member is moved from the angular position of transmitting rotational force to an angular disengagement position to disengage said

<td>member</td><td>of</td><td>coupling</td><td>From the axis</td><td>motor against</td><td>a force</td>

<td>elastic</td><td>of</td><td>said member</td><td>elastic.</td><td></td><td></td>

<td>Of</td><td colspan="2">according to a</td><td>appearance</td><td>additional of</td><td>the present</td>

Invention, here is provided an electrophotographic imaging apparatus for imaging on a recording material, said apparatus i) a drive shaft including a rotational force applying portion; ii) a rotary press; a developing cartridge that can be moved in a direction substantially perpendicular to an axial direction of the drive shaft in response to rotation of said press with said developing device mounted on said press; a developing roller for developing a latent electrostatic image formed on the drum of the photosensitive electrophotographic member; a developer housing portion for housing a developer to be used by said developer roller to develop the latent electrostatic image; iii) a coupling member for transmitting a rotational force to said developing roller in a state where the developing cartridge is mounted on said rotary, said coupling member including a rotational force receiving portion for coupling with the rotational force applying portion to receive said rotational force from the motor shaft, wherein the drive shaft cannot be moved in a direction substantially perpendicular to an axial direction of said drive shaft; iv) a regulating member including a regulating portion for regulating said coupling member in a pre-coupling angular position prior to coupling with the drive shaft, and including an authorization portion to allow said coupling member to rotate substantially; and v) an elastic member for elastically driving said coupling member to position said coupling member in the regulating portion, where, when said rotary rotates, said coupling member moves from the angular position of pre-coupling to a position of angular transmission of rotational force, the response to movement of said coupling member from the regulating portion To the authorization portion against an elastic force of said elastic member by said coupling member which is brought into contact with said drive shaft member with the movement of said cartridge of developed, and when said press rotates additionally, said coupling member is moved from the angular position of transmitting rotational force to an angular disengagement position to decouple said coupling member from the drive shaft against an elastic force of said elastic member.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, a rotational force transmission component is provided here that can be used with a developing cartridge, said developing cartridge that can be installed in a main assembly of a forming apparatus. electrophotographic images that a motor shaft is occluded, and can be moved in a direction substantially perpendicular to an axial direction of the motor shaft, the developing cartridge which is provided with a regulating member including an authorization portion and an regulating portion, said rotational force transmission component comprising a cavity provided at a longitudinal end of said component that transmits the force of rotation and that can be coupled with the motor shaft when said developer cartridge is mounted on the main assembly of the apparatus; a spherical portion provided at the other end; a plurality of projections interposing the center of said cavity and projected opposite said spherical portion in a longitudinal direction of said component of transmission of the rotational force to receive the rotational force of the motor shaft, which is provided in the main assembly of the apparatus, such that it does not move in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of said drive shaft in a state that the developer cartridge is mounted in the main assembly of the apparatus; a first projected portion, projected from said spherical portion contrary to said one end, said projected portion that can rotate between said authorization portion to allow substantial rotation of said rotation force transmission component and said adjusting portion to regulate a position of the angle of inclination of said rotation force transmission component in state in which the rotational force transmission component is mounted on said developing cartridge; and a plurality of second projecting portions, provided between said projections and said first projecting portion and interposing with said spherical portion, said second projecting portions projecting outwardly from the spherical portion, said second projecting portions are effective for transmitting to the roller revealing the rotational force received from the motor shaft by the projections.

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

<td>The</td><td>Figure 1 is</td><td>a</td><td>view</td><td>transverse, lateral of</td><td>a</td>

<td>cartridge</td><td>of revealed</td><td>of</td><td>agreement</td><td>with a modality of</td><td>the</td>

<td>Present</td><td>invention.</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td>

<td>The</td><td colspan="3">Figure 2 is a view in</td><td>cartridge perspective</td><td>of</td>

<td>revealed</td><td>agree</td><td>with</td><td>a</td><td colspan="2">modality of the present</td>

invention.

Figure 3 is a perspective view of the development cartridge according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 4 is a side, cross-sectional view of the main assembly of an electrophotographic imaging apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 5 is a perspective view of a developing roller in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 6 is a perspective view of a coupling according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figures 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 7E and 7F are perspective views of a coupling according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figures 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 8E, and 8F are front views, and cross-sectional, side views of a drive input gear in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of a developer cartridge in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figures 10A1, 10A2, 10A3, 10A4, 10A5, 10B1, 10B2, 10B3, 10B4, and 10B5 are perspective views of a coupling according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figures 11A, 11B, 11C, and 11D are longitudinal, cross-sectional views of a coupling in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figures 12A, 12B, 12C and 12D are perspective views of a regulating portion in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figures 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F and 13G are perspective views illustrating a mating relationship between the coupling, and the regulating portion in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 14 is a perspective view of an elastic material (driving member), and a support member according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 15 is a perspective view of a cartridge drive portion in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figures 16A, 16B, 16C, 16D, and 16E are perspective views illustrating a method of installing the cartridge drive portion in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 17 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view illustrating a main assembly of the electrophotographic imaging apparatus in a standby position.

<td>revealed</td><td colspan="2">agree</td><td>with a</td><td>modality</td><td>of</td><td colspan="2">the present</td>

<td>invention</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td>

<td>The</td><td>Figure 18</td><td>is</td><td colspan="2">a cross view</td><td colspan="2">longitudinal</td><td>than</td>

<td colspan="2">illustrates the state</td><td>of</td><td>mounting</td><td>cartridge</td><td>of</td><td>revealed</td><td>of the</td>

main set of electrophotographic imaging apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 19 is a perspective view illustrating a process in which the developer cartridge in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is mounted on the rotatable member.

Figure 20 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a rotatable member in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 21 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rotating member in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 22 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rotatable member in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 23 is the longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rotating member according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 24 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view illustrating a coupled state between the drive shaft and the coupling, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 25 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view illustrating the coupled state between the drive shaft and the coupling, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 26 is a perspective view between the drive shaft and the coupling, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 27 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view illustrating the process in which the drive shaft and coupling are disengaged from each other in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 28 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view illustrating the process in which the drive shaft and coupling are disengaged from each other, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 29 is a perspective view of an elastic material and a support member in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 30 is a perspective view of an elastic material and a support member in accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 31 is a perspective view of the coupling (rotational force transmission component) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

The preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. A coupling member (rotational force transmission component) of the present invention will first be described.

The present invention relates in itself to a developer cartridge (Figure 2, for example), and an electrophotographic imaging apparatus (Figure 4, for example). Furthermore, the present invention can be applied per se to a coupling member (rotational force transmission component) (Figures 7A-7F, Figure 31, for example).

(1) Developer cartridge

Referring to Figures 1-4, a developer cartridge B will be described as the developer device (cartridge) according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge B. Figures 2 and 3 are perspective views of cartridge B. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of main assembly A (main assembly) of the color electrophotographic imaging apparatus.

Cartridge B is mounted on a rotating member C provided in a main assembly A, and is removed from the rotating member C by the user.

The main assembly A is the structure of the electrophotographic imaging apparatus 100, other than cartridge B.

In Figures 1-3, cartridge B has a developer roller 110. The developer roller 110 receives rotational force through the coupling mechanism, as will be described hereinafter, from the main assembly A at the time of a developer action, to rotate.

A developer t of a predetermined color is housed in a chassis 114 containing the developer. More particularly, chassis 114 is provided with a developer housing portion 116 which houses a developer t. Developer t is supplied to the surface of developer roller 110 by rotation of developer supply roller 115, in the form of a sponge in developer chamber 113a. And, by friction between the thin plate-like developing blade 112 and the developing roller 110, the developer t is charged triboelectrically, and takes the form of a thin layer. The developer t of the thin layer on the peripheral surface of the developer roller 110 is fed into a developer position by rotation. The predetermined development offset applies to the development roller 110. By this, the developing roller 110 reveals a latent electrostatic image formed on the photosensitive electrophotographic drum 107 (drum, photosensitive). In other words, the latent electrostatic image is developed with developer t by developer roller 110. Developer t used for developing latent electrostatic image by developer roller 110 is housed in housing portion 116. The developer t housed in the housing portion 116 'is supplied to a development chamber 113a through a feed opening 116a. An opening 116a is sealed by a sealing member (not shown) which unseals the opening 116a. A user removes the sealing member before using cartridge B to open opening 116a. Thus, developer t in housing portion 116 is supplied to development chamber 113a.

The developer, which has not contributed to the development of the latent electrostatic image, that is, the developer which remains on the surface of the development roller 110, is scraped or removed with a roller 115. Simultaneously with this, it is supplied with new developer to the surface of the developing roll 110 by roll 115. In this way the developing operation is continuously carried out.

Developer cartridge B is in the form of a developer unit 119. Developing unit 119 includes a developing device chassis 113, and a chassis 114 containing

<td>the developer</td><td> . ]</td><td>Unit</td><td> 119</td><td>development is provided</td><td>with</td><td>the</td>

<td>roller 110</td><td>of</td><td>revealed,</td><td>the</td><td colspan="2">developing blade 112,</td><td>the</td>

<td>roller 115</td><td>of</td><td>supply</td><td> of</td><td>developer, camera</td><td>113a</td><td>of</td>

<td>revealing, and</td><td>the</td><td>chassis 114</td><td>than</td><td>contains the developer.</td><td></td><td></td>

The developer roller 110 can rotate about an axis of rotation Ll (Figure 5).

Developer cartridge B is installed by the user in a developer cartridge housing portion 130a of a developing developer rotary member C provided in main assembly A (Figure 4). In this case, as will be described hereinafter, the motor shaft 180 provided in the main assembly A, and the cartridge coupling member 150 come into contact in interrelation with the positioning operation of the cartridge B to the predetermined position ( the portion opposite to the photosensitive drum) by the rotating developing member C. And, the developing roller 110 receives the rotational force from the main assembly A, to rotate. The coupling member is a component of transmission of rotational force.

The chassis 113 of the developing device and the chassis 114 containing the developer constitute a chassis of the cartridge.

(2) Electrophotographic imaging apparatus

Referring to Figure 4, a color electrophotographic imaging apparatus 110 used with cartridge B will be described. Here, color electrophotographic imaging apparatus 100 is a color laser beam printer as an exemplary apparatus. imaging system.

As shown in Figure 4, a plurality of cartridges B (Bl, B2, B3 and B4) which house different color developers (ink powder) is mounted on the rotating member C. The mounting and dismounting of cartridge B relative to the rotating member C it is carried out by the user. By rotating the rotating member C by the rotational force of the motor (not shown), the cartridge B containing the predetermined color developer opposes the photosensitive drum 107. The latent electrostatic image formed on the photosensitive drum 107 is developed by the developing roller 110 of the cartridge B. A developed image is transferred to the transfer band 104. This development and transfer operation is carried out for each color. With this, a color image is provided. Detailed description will be made. A recording material S is for imaging, and this is a paper, an OHP sheet, or the like.

As shown in Figure 4, light based on image information is projected from optical media 101 to photosensitive drum 107. With this, the latent electrostatic image is formed on the photosensitive drum 107. And, the latent image is developed by the developer roller 110 using the developer. ..With this, the developer image is formed on the photosensitive drum 107. The developer image formed on the photosensitive drum 107 is transferred to the intermediate transfer member.

Then, the developer image transferred to the intermediate transfer band 104a which is an intermediate transfer member is transferred to the recording material S by the secondary transfer roll 104b as the second transfer medium. The recording material S onto which the developer image has been transferred is fed to the fixing means 105 which has a pressing roller 105a, and a heating roller 105b. The developer image transferred onto the recording medium S is fixed onto the recording material S. After fixing, the recording material S is discharged into a tray.

106 .

In addition, an image formation step will be described.

The photosensitive drum 107 is rotated counterclockwise (Figure 4) in sync with the rotation of the transfer band 104a (intermediate transfer member). The surface of the photosensitive drum 107 is uniformly loaded by a loading roller 108. Thereafter, by the optical means 101, the photo irradiation of a yellow image to the photosensitive drum 107 is carried out in response to the image information. With this, a latent electrostatic image corresponding to the yellow color is formed on the photosensitive drum 107.

The exposure medium has the following structures. The exposure means 101 carries out the photo irradiation of the photosensitive drum 107, on the basis of the image information (color information including the image signal) read by an external device (not shown). With this, the latent electrostatic image is formed on the photosensitive drum 107. The exposure medium includes a laser diode, a polygon mirror, a scanning motor, an imaging lens, and a reflection mirror (not shown).

In more detail, the laser diode emits light according to the image information, and is directed by the polygonal mirror as the image light. The polygonal mirror is rotated at a high speed by the scanner engine, and the image light developed by the polygonal mirror is selectively projected onto the surface of the photosensitive drum 107, by means of the imaging lens, and the reflection mirror. With this, the latent electrostatic image corresponding to the image information is formed on the photosensitive drum 107.

Simultaneously with the formation of this latent image, the rotating member C is rotated. With this, a yellow cartridge B1 is moved to a developing position. The predetermined bias voltage is applied to the developer roller 110 of a cartridge B1. With this, a yellow developer is deposited on the latent image. With this, the latent image is revealed with the yellow developer. Then, a bias voltage with the opposite polarity to the developer is applied to the confinement roll 104 j (primary transfer roll) of the transfer band 104a. With this, the developer image of the yellow color, formed on the photosensitive drum 107, is mainly transferred to the intermediate transfer band 104a.

As described above in the text, when the primary transfer of the yellow developer image ends, the rotating member C rotates again. A next cartridge B2 moves, and is positioned in the position which is opposite the photosensitive drum 107. These stages are carried out for a B-2 magenta cartridge, a B3 cyan cartridge, and a B4 black cartridge. With this, the four-color developer image is superimposed on the transfer belt 104a.

The yellow B1 cartridge houses the yellow developer, and forms a yellow developer image. The Magenta B-2 cartridge houses the developer in a magenta color, and forms a magenta developer image. The B3 cyan cartridge houses the developer in a cyan color, and forms a cyan developer image. The black B4 cartridge houses the developer in a black color, and forms a black developer image. Cartridges B have different colors of the hosted developer, but they have the same structures.

During this period, the secondary roller 104b of

<td>transfer</td><td>not</td><td>this</td><td>in</td><td>contact with the</td><td>band</td><td>104a</td><td>of</td>

<td>transfer.</td><td>In</td><td>this</td><td colspan="3">moment, a 104f roller of</td><td>load</td><td>of</td>

<td colspan="2">cleaning either</td><td>this</td><td>in</td><td>contact with the</td><td>band</td><td>104a</td><td>of</td>

transfer.

And, after the four-color developer image is formed on the transfer belt 104a, the transfer roller 104b makes pressure contact with the transfer belt 104a (Figure 4). In addition, in sync with a pressure contact of the transfer roll 104b, the recording material S, which has waited alongside a pair of pressure roll 103e, is fed into a gap between the rolls, between the transfer belt 104a, and transfer roller 104b. Simultaneously, the following material from

10.

Register S is fed from container 103a via a feed roller 103b, and the pair 103 of feed rollers as the feed medium 103.

Here, a detector 99 is provided immediately prior to the register roller pair 103e. Detector 99 detects a free end of the recording material S, and in response to this, rotation of the registration roller pair 103e is stopped, to cause the recording material S to wait at the predetermined position.

Furthermore, the bias voltage of the opposite polarity to that of the developer is applied to the transfer roll 104b. With this, the developer images on the transfer band 104a are all transferred together secondly on the recording material S.

The recording material S onto which the developer image has been transferred is fed to the fixing means 105 by means of the conveyor belt unit 103f. With this, the developer image is fixed on the recording material S. And, the recording material S which has been subjected to the fixing, is discharged to the discharge tray 106 of the upper portion of the main assembly, by means of the pair of 103g discharge rollers. This completes the formation of the image on the registration material S.

On the other hand, after the end of the secondary transfer, a discharge roll 104f is brought into pressure contact with the transfer band 104a. With this, a predetermined bias voltage is applied to the developer, which remains on the surface of the band 104a. And the residual charge is removed.

The discharged residual developer is electrostatically transferred back to the photosensitive drum 107 from the band 104a, through the space between primary transfer rollers. With this the cleaning of the band 104a is carried out. The residual developer after secondary transfer, transferred back to the photosensitive drum 107, is removed by a cleaning blade 117a, which is in contact with the photosensitive drum 107.

The removed developer is collected in a removed developer box 107d along the feed path (not shown).

A housing portion 13 0a is a chamber which houses cartridge B, and a plurality of such housing portions are provided. In the state that cartridge B is mounted in this chamber, rotating member C rotates unidirectionally. With this, the coupling member, which will be described hereinafter, of the cartridge B engages and disengages relative to the motor shaft 180 provided in the main assembly A. Cartridge B (developer roller 110) is mounted in housing portion 130a, and therefore, in response to movement in one direction of rotating member C, it moves in the direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of the axis of rotation. L3 shaft 180 motor.

(3) Structure of the developing roller

Then, referring to Figure 5, the development roller structure will be described. In Figure 5 (a) is a perspective view of the developer roller 110,

<td>when</td><td>watch</td><td>of the</td><td>set</td><td>principal</td><td>TO (</td><td>side</td><td>of</td>

<td>actuation</td><td>). In</td><td>the</td><td>Figure 5,</td><td>(b) is</td><td colspan="2">a sight</td><td>in</td>

<td>perspective,</td><td>when</td><td>I know</td><td>watch</td><td>from the</td><td>side</td><td>of</td><td>not</td>

drive.

Developer roll 110 includes a shaft portion 110b, and a rubber portion 110a (elastic material).

The shaft portion 110b is made of electroconductive material such as iron, and has an elongated configuration, and is covered with a rubber portion 110a. The opposite ends 11Obl, 110b2 of the shaft portion 110b are rotatably supported through a bearing (not shown) by the chassis 113 of the developing device. The developer roller 110 is rotatably mounted to the chassis 113 of the developer.

The rubber portion 110a lines the shaft portion 110b coaxially. The rubber portion 110a carries the developer t, and reveals the latent electrostatic image by means of a bias voltage applied to the shaft portion 110b.

A gap width regulating member 136, 137 maintains a uniform width of a gap between the photosensitive drum 107, and the rubber portion 110a in the state where the developer roller 110 contacts the photosensitive drum 107.

The bearing (not shown) is disposed at each end 110b !, 110b2, of the developer roller 110, to support the developer roller 110 rotatably.

A regulating member 136 is provided at one end of the developing roller 110, and a regulating member 137 is provided at the other end of the developing roller 110.

In the state of contact with the photosensitive drum 107 the developing roller 110 of the present embodiment reveals the latent image (so-called contact-type developing system).

(4) Drive transmission mechanism (rotational drive force transmission mechanism)

A developer gear 145 is provided at the end of the developer roll 110, and a supply roll gear 146 is provided at the end of a supply roll 115 (Figure 1). Y The gears, 145, 146, are fixed to the shaft. With this, the rotational force, which receives the coupling member 150 (coupling) from the main assembly A, is transmitted to the developing roller 110 through the gear 145, and is transmitted to the supply roller 115 through a gear 146. The rotational force received by coupling 150 from main assembly A can be transmitted to a rotating member other than developer roller 110 and supply roller 115.

The main assembly A is the portion of electrophotographic imaging apparatus 100, other than cartridge B.

Then, a drive input gear 147 (rotating member) will be described which supports coupling 150.

As shown in Figure 6, a gear 147 is mounted to developer unit 119 rotatably, in position for integration engagement with developer gear 145 and supply roller gear 146. Roller 147 includes a portion 147a of the developing roller (first portion of the gear) and a portion of the supply roller 147b (second portion of the gear). A portion 147a of the gear engages the gear 145 to transmit the rotational force received from the main assembly A to the development roller 119. A portion 147b of the gear engages the gear 146 of the supply roll to transmit the received rotational force from main assembly A to the supply roll 115. Roller 145 is mounted on the end of developer roller 110. The gear

146, mounts to the end of supply roll 115. The gear 14 7 is provided with a coupling mounting portion 14 7 j (coupling housing portion (Figures 8A-8F) therein. A mounting portion 147j houses a coupling drive portion 150b 150. Coupling 1509 is restricted in movement in the direction of arrow X34 relative to gear 147 by retaining portion 147k (147kl, 147k2, 147k3, 147k4) provided within gear 147. Coupling 150 can be tilted relative to mounting portion 147 j and relative to a rotation axis L4 of gear 147 (Figures 16a and 16B). More particularly, the coupling 150 can be included relative to the axis L4 in the state that it is restricted in its movement towards the driven portion 150a of

<td>the 150b portion of</td><td colspan="3">drive,</td><td>with</td><td>relation to</td><td>the</td><td>portion</td>

<td>147j mounting by</td><td colspan="2">Serving</td><td>147k</td><td>of</td><td>retention.</td><td></td><td></td>

<td>The L4 axis is</td><td>parallel</td><td>to the</td><td>axis</td><td>of</td><td>rotation L1</td><td>of the</td><td>roller</td>

<td>110 of development.</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td>

<td>Cartridge</td><td>B has</td><td>the</td><td colspan="2">chassis</td><td colspan="2">113 of the provision</td><td>tive of</td>

<td colspan="2">revealed and a member 157</td><td>of</td><td colspan="2">support</td><td colspan="2">, and the member</td><td>157 of</td>

The bracket is mounted on the chassis 113 of the development device (Figure 2).

The support member 157 is provided with a hole 157j, and the inner surface 157m thereof is in engagement with the gear 147 (Figures 16C, 16D and 16E).

(5) Transmission component of rotational force (Coupling and coupling member).

Referring to Figure 7A-7F the description will be made as to an example of a coupling (coupling member) as a component of transmission of rotational force according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7A is a perspective view of the coupling, when viewed from the side of the main assembly, and Figure 7B is a perspective view of the coupling, when viewed from the side of the development roller. Figure 7C shows a view of the coupling, when viewed in the direction perpendicular to the direction of the axis of rotation L2. Figure 7D is a side view of the coupling, when viewed from the side of the main assembly, and Figure 7E is a view, when viewed from the side of the developer roller. Figure 7E is a cross-sectional view taken along S3 in Figure 7D. Figure 31 is a perspective view which illustrates only the coupling illustrated in Figures 13A-13G.

Cartridge B is removably mounted to a cartridge housing portion 130a of rotatable member C provided in main assembly A. This is done by the user. In the state that the cartridge B is mounted in the housing portion 130a, the rotating member C is rotated by the rotational force of the motor (not shown). When the cartridge B reaches a predetermined position (the position which opposes the photosensitive drum 107, that is, the developing position), the rotation of the rotating member C stops. With this, the coupling 150 (coupling member) couples with the motor shaft 180 provided in the main assembly A. By further rotating the rotating member C in a unidirectional manner the cartridge B moves from the predetermined position (the development position. In other words, it retracts from the predetermined position. With this, the coupling 150 is decoupled from the motor shaft 180. This receives the rotational force of the motor (not shown) provided in the main assembly A, in the state that the coupling 150 is in coupling with the motor shaft 180. The rotational force is transmitted to the developing roller 110. With this, developer roller 110 is rotated by the rotational force received from main assembly A.

In this embodiment, coupling 150 receives an external force to rotate developer roller 110. Coupling 150 rotates developer roller 110 by transmitting external force to developer roller 110. Here, according to this embodiment, the external force is the rotational force transmitted to the coupling 1250 by the motor shaft 180. Therefore, coupling 150 receives the external force transmitted from motor shaft 180 to coupling 150 to rotate.

In the state that the cartridge B is mounted in the housing portion 130a, it moves in the direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of the axis of rotation L3 of the motor shaft 180, in accordance with the rotation of the rotating member C. In response upon rotation in one direction of the rotating member C, the coupling 150 engages with the motor shaft 180, and disengages from the motor shaft 180.

As described above in the text, the motor shaft 180 is provided with a pin 182 (rotational force application portion), and is rotated by the motor (not shown).

The material of the coupling 150 is desirably a resinous material, for example, it is polyacetal. This is because the balance in stiffness, hardness, and the processing capacity thereof, is adequate for the present modality. However, in order to increase the stiffness of the coupling 150, in consideration of a loading torque, the stiffness can be increased by adding fiberglass to the resinous material. Also, a metallic material can be used. The material can be appropriately selected by those skilled in the art. Since the resinous material is simple to process, the couplings of the present embodiment are made of the resinous material.

Coupling 150 mainly has three parts.

The first portion is a drive portion 150a. As shown in Figure 7C, the drive portion 150a engages with the motor shaft 180 (as will be described hereafter). The drive portion 150a engages a rotational force transmission pin 182 as the rotational force application portion (main assembly side rotational force transmission component) provided on the motor shaft 180, to receive the rotational force from pin 182. The second portion is a drive portion 150b. In the drive portion 150b, a pin 155 (rotational force transmission component) engages the drive input gear 147 (the rotational force receiving portion, and the rotational force transmission portion), and transmits rotational force to gear 147. More specifically, drive portion 150b transmits rotational force to mounting portion 147 j. The third portion is the intermediate portion 150c connected between the driven portion 150a, and the drive portion 150b.

The pin 182 projects in each of the two opposite positions, in the direction perpendicular to an axis of rotation L3 of the motor axis 180 (182al, 182a2).

As shown in Figure 7F, the driven portion 150a has a drive shaft insertion opening 150m, which expands from a coupling shaft L2 150. The drive portion 150b has a spherical portion 150i, a pin 155 drive transmission, and a portion to be adjusted of the coupling 150j. Here, the regulating portion 150j is substantially coaxial with an axis L2, and mates with a regulating portion housing portion 160b, as will be described hereafter (Figures 12A-12D). With this, the regulating portion 150j can regulate an inclination direction of the axis L2. The details thereof will be described hereafter.

An opening 150m is provided with a drive shaft receiving surface 150f which has the configuration of a circular as expanded to the side of the motor shaft (180). As shown in Figure 7F, a receiving surface 150f constitutes a cavity 150z. The cavity is provided with an opening 150m (opening) on ​​an opposite side of a drive input gear 147 with respect to a direction of axis L2.

With this, the coupling 150 can move relative to the axis of rotation L3 of the motor shaft 180 (rotatable) without being hindered by a portion 180b of the free end of the motor shaft 180, regardless of the rotational phase of the developing roller 110 in the cartridge. B. More particularly, the coupling can be moved (rotated) between the angular position of transmission of rotational force (the position shown in subsection (d) of Figure 24), and the angular position of decoupling (the position shown in subsection (c) and (d) of Figure 27), and between the pre-coupling angular position (the position shown in subsection (a) of Figure 24), and an angular position of transmission of rotational force (the position shown in subsection (d) of Figure 24).

The details thereof will be described hereafter.

Two projections (projections) 150d (coupling portions) are provided at equal intervals along the periphery of the imaginary circle around the axis L2 on the front surface of the circular cavity 150z (150dl or 150d2). The portions between the projections 150d constitute the access portions 150k (150kl, 150k2). The interval between the projections 150dl or 150d2 is greater than the external diameter of the pin 182, so that the intervals can receive the pin 182 provided on the motor shaft 180. Pin 182 is the rotational force transmission element. The spaces between the projections are the 150kl, 150k2 access portions. When the rotational force is transmitted from drive shaft 180 to coupling 150, pins 182 are positioned in access portions 150kl, 150k2, respectively. Furthermore, in Figure 7D, the upstream side of the projections of each 150d with respect to the clockwise direction is provided with a rotational force receiving surface (rotational force receiving portion) 150e (150el , 150e2). This rotational force receiving surface 150e faces the rotational direction of the coupling 150. More particularly, the projection 150dl is provided with the receiving surface 150el, and the projection 150d2 is provided with the receiving surface 150e2. In the state in which the motor shaft 180 rotates, the pins 182al, 182a2 abut any of the surfaces 150e. With this, pins 182al, 182a2 push contacting receiving surfaces 150e. With this, coupling 150 is rotated about axis L2.

More particularly, coupling 150 receives external force to rotate developer roller 110. Coupling 150 rotates developer roller 110 by transmitting external force to developer roller. Here, according to this embodiment, the external force is a rotational force transmitted to the coupling 150 by the motor shaft 180. More particularly, coupling 150 receives the external force transmitted to coupling 150 by motor shaft 180, to rotate.

In this embodiment, projections 150d (rotational force receiving surfaces 150e) are arranged on the periphery of the imaginary circle around axis L2, and these oppose each other, interposing the center. Therefore, for coupling 150, the force is uniformly transmitted from the motor shaft 180. With this, the coupling 150 can be rotated stably with a high degree of accuracy. In this embodiment, only two projections 150d (rotational force receiving surfaces) 150e are employed, and therefore the sizes of the access portions 150k are large. Thus, pin 182 easily enters access portions 150k. Therefore, contact is assured between the rotational force receiving surface 150e and the pin 182.

As shown in Figure 7F, the receiving surface 150f is conical in shape, the center of which is on the L2 axis, and the cusp angle of the receiving surface is «2. Therefore, in the case where the coupling 150 is in the angular position of transmission of rotational force in the state in which the coupling 150 and the motor shaft 180 are in coupling with each other, the free end 180b of the motor shaft (Figure 24 ) adjoins the receiving surface 150f. The axis of taper 1, that is, the axis L2 of the coupling

<td>150, and the</td><td>axis</td><td>L3</td><td>(Figure</td><td>26) from</td><td>axis 180 motor</td><td>are</td>

<td colspan="2">substantially</td><td>co-</td><td>axial</td><td>between</td><td>yes. For this,</td><td>the</td>

<td>coupling</td><td> 150,</td><td>and the</td><td>axis 180</td><td>engine se</td><td>align with each other,</td><td>and the</td>

<td>moment of</td><td colspan="2">torsion</td><td colspan="2">transmitted to</td><td>coupling 150</td><td>I know</td>

stabilizes. In this mode, «2 is 60 degrees

150 degrees. Depending on the angle of '2, the non-conical portions 150n of the opening 150m (Figure 7A, and Figure 7D) may be wide, or it may not be proportionate (Figure (B).

It is desirable that the receiving surface of the rotational force 150e be provided in an imaginary circle (common circle) Cl, which has center 0 on the axis L2 (Figure 7D). Because of this, the transmission radius of the rotational force is constant, and therefore, the transmitted torque stabilizes. Furthermore, as for the projection 10. 150d, the position of the coupling 150 is preferably stabilized by the balance of the forces received by the coupling 150. For this reason, in the present embodiment the receiving surfaces 150e are separated 180 degrees. In other words, in this embodiment, the receiving surface 150el, 15 and the receiving surface 150e2 are diametrically opposed to the axis L2. Thus, the forces received by coupling 150 form a pair of forces. For this reason, the rotation of the coupling 150 can be continued only by receiving the torque. In other words, the coupling 20 150 can be rotated without adjusting the shaft position

L2.

Here, in the case of the present embodiment, a pin diameter is approximately 2mm. And, the circumferential length of the inlet portion 150k is approximately 8mm. Here, the circumferential length of the inlet portion 50k is the interval between adjacent projections 150d on the phantom circle. However, the present invention is not limited to these values. In this way, pins 182 easily enter access portions 150k.

Furthermore, projections 150d are provided at a portion of the free end of cavity 150z. In other words, these are provided at the free end portion of the coupling 150. And, the projections 150d (projections) are projected in a crossover direction, which intersects the rotational direction of the coupling 150, and are provided at both places with intervals along the rotational direction. By using the two projections 150d, a more secure engagement is possible during engagement with the rotary motor shaft 180.

Rotating member C (housing portion 130a) rotates in the state that cartridge B is mounted. In the state that the developer roller 110 of a desired developer cartridge B is placed in the developer position with the rotating member C which is not rotated, the coupling 150 engages with the motor shaft 180. The receiving surface 150e is in the state that it can engage with the pin 182. Or the receiving surface 150e engages with the pin 182. The receiving surface 150e is pushed by the pin 182 to receive the force from the rotating motor shaft 180. By this, the receiving surface 150e receives the rotational force from the motor shaft 180. Furthermore, the receiving surfaces 150e are equidistant from the axis L2, it is the surfaces of the projections 150d which are diametrically opposed to each other, and face in the circumferential direction.

An access portion (cavity) 150k is drilled in the direction of the L2 axis. The access portion 150k is formed as the space between the 150d projection and the 150d projection. In the case where the motor shaft 180 is at rest, and when the coupling 150 is coupled with the motor shaft 180, in the state that the cartridge B is mounted on the rotating member C, the pin 182 enters the portion 150k of access. And, the receiving surface 150e is pushed by pin 182 of motor shaft 180. Or when the coupling 150 is coupled with the motor shaft 180, in the case where the motor shaft 180 is already rotating, the pin enters the access portion 150k to push the receiving surface 150e. By this, coupling 150 is rotated. The rotational force receiving surface 150e (rotational force receiving portion) may be within the receiving surface 150g of the drive shaft. Or the receiving surface 150e may be disposed in the portion which projects outwardly from the receiving surface 150f in the direction of the axis L2. In the case where the receiving surface 150e is disposed within the receiving surface 150f, the access portion 150k is also disposed within the receiving surface 150f. In other words, the access portion 150k is the cavity, and is disposed within the arc portion of the receiving surface 150f, and between projections 150d. In the case where the receiving surface 150e is disposed in the portion which projects outward, the inlet portion 150k is the cavity and is disposed between the projections 150d. Here the cavity can be the hole penetrated in the direction of the L2 axis or it can have the lower portion. It is satisfactory if the cavity is a spatial region which is between the projections 150d. And it will be satisfactory if the pin 182 can be inserted into the region in the state that the cartridge B is mounted on the rotating member C.

The free end of the drive portion 150b is a spherical surface, so that regardless of the rotational phase in the cartridge B of the gear 147, it can move between the angular position of transmission of rotational force and the position Pre-coupling angle (or the decoupling angular position) relative to an axis L1 (Figure 10) of gear 147. Here, the angular position of transmission of rotational force is a first angular position. The pre-coupling angular position is a second angular position. The decoupling angular position is a third angular position. In the illustrated example, the drive portion 150b is provided with a spherical retaining portion 150i which has axis L2 as its axis. A fixing hole 150g is provided coaxial with the center line of the driving portion 150b, and the fixing hole is penetrated by the transmission pin 155. Furthermore, the actuation portion 150b is provided with a cylindrical regulating portion 150j coaxial with the axis L2 in the position which opposes the intermediate portion 150c. The regulating portion 150j mates with the regulating portion housing portion 160b as will be described hereafter (Figures 12A-12D). This adjusts the tilt direction of the coupling L2 axis. The details thereof will be described hereafter.

In this embodiment coupling 150 has an integrated structure, however a separate drive portion 150a, intermediate portion 150c, and drive portion 150b may be connected. Various other structures are useful, but it is satisfactory if integral operation like coupling is possible.

Furthermore, coupling 150 is provided with a flat circular 150x portion and a circular cavity 150z in the center O of the flat 150x portion, at the free end portion. A rotational force receiving portion 150e projects from the edge of the flat portion 150x, and these oppose each other by interposing the center of the flat portion 150x (Figure 6 and so on). In other words the free end portion which is provided with the rotational force receiving surface (rotational force receiving portion) 150e is provided in the center of the flat portion 150x.

Here, the 250x flat portion may not be used. However, in the case where the axis of rotation of the rotating member C oscillates, as shown in the present invention, it is preferable to provide the flat portion 150x, since when the coupling 150 is coupled to the motor shaft 180, the coupling is even more insured.

As described above in the text, the coupling

150 As the rotational force transmission component, it is used for developer cartridge B. Cartridge B is mounted and dismounted with movement in the direction substantially perpendicular to one direction of axis L3 of motor shaft 180, relative to the whole Main A of electrophotographic imaging apparatus. In other words, cartridge B moves in the direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of axis L3 of motor axis 180. Motor shaft 180 is provided in main assembly A. Cartridge B is provided with a regulating member 160 which includes an authorization portion 160b2, and a regulating or confining portion 160bl. The authorization portion 160b2 allows the coupling 150 to rotate substantially. The regulating portion 160bl restricts the position of the angle of inclination of the coupling 150. In the state where the regulating portion 150j such as the projection is positioned in the authorization portion 160b2, the regulating portion 1250j does not engage or contact relative to the regulating member 160.

Coupling 150 has a spherical portion (retaining portion) 150i, and cavity 150z in the one end portion of spherical portion 150i with respect to the longitudinal direction of coupling 150. Cavity 150z is provided in one end portion in the longitudinal direction. The spherical portion 150i is provided at the other end portion opposite the end portion. Cavity 150z engages motor shaft 180 in the state that cartridge B is mounted to main assembly A. Coupling 150 has projections 150d. The projections 150d oppose each other by interposing the center of the cavity 150z O (the axis of rotation), and these project in the opposite direction to the spherical portion 150i in the longitudinal direction L1. In other words, the projections project in the longitudinal direction at the free end of the end portion in the longitudinal direction 150d.

The projections 150d receive the rotational force from the motor shaft 180 in the state that the cartridge B is mounted on the main assembly A. The projection 150d is provided in each of the positions. Coupling 150 has the regulating portion 150j, like the projection, which projects into the other end portion of the spherical portion 150i in the longitudinal direction. Regulating portion 150j can be moved between authorization portion 160b2 to allow for substantial rotation of coupling 150, and regulating portion 160bl to regulate the angle of inclination position of coupling 150 in the state that coupling 150 is mounted in cartridge B.

Coupling 150 includes a plurality of pins 155 (rotational force transmitting component, and projection) which project outward from spherical portion 150i interposing spherical portion 150i between projection 150d, and regulating portion 150j with respect to the longitudinal direction of the coupling 150. A pin 155 transmits the rotational force received by the projection 150d from the motor shaft 180 to the developing roller 110 in the state that cartridge B is mounted on main assembly A. In other words, pin 155 engages the surface Rotational force receiving 147h (rotational force transmitting portion) for transmitting rotational force to a receiving surface 147h. Therefore, gear 147 rotates to transmit rotational force to developing roller 110, through first gear 147 portion of gear 147. In addition, rotational force is transmitted to supply roller 115 through second portion 147b. gear gear 147.

Here, the longitudinal direction of the coupling 150 is directed by the free end of the projection 150d from the free end of the regulating portion 150j.

In addition, coupling 150 includes the first circular portion 150x in the free end portion, which is provided with projections 150d. Cavity 150z is provided in the center 0 of the flat 150x portion. Projections 150d project from the edge of the flat portion 150x, and oppose each other relatively by interposing the center 0 of the flat portion 150x.

Here, the projection 150d is arranged in the dotted circle C1 around the center O. Furthermore, the regulating portion 150 j has a cylindrical shape.

Referring to Figures 8A-8F, a developer input gear 147 will be described which supports coupling 150.

The openings 147g 1 or 147g2 shown in Figure 8A are grooves extended in the direction of the rotational axis of the drive input gear 147. During assembly of coupling 150 a rotational force transmission pin 155 (rotational force transmission component, and projection) enters openings 147gl or 147g2.

Transmission pin 155 moves into openings 147gl or 147g2. Therefore, the coupling 150 can be moved between the angular position of transmission of the rotational force, and the angular position of pre-coupling (or the angular position of disengagement) independently of the rotational phase of the drive input gear 147 in the cartridge B.

In Figures 8A and 8D, the upstream clockwise side of aperture 147 (147gl or 147g2) is provided with the rotational force receiving surface 147h (transmitting portion of rotational force) (147hl or 147h2). One side of the transmission pin 155 (rotational force transmission component) of coupling 150 contacts the receiving surface 147h. By this, the rotational force is transmitted to the developing roller 110. In other words, the transmission surfaces 147hl-147h2 are surfaces crossed to the direction of rotation of the drive input gear 147. Thus, the transmission surface 147h (147hl or 147h2) is pushed by the side of the transmission pin 155 to rotate about the axis L1 (Figure 8B). Here, axis L4 is the axis of rotation of gear 147.

As will be described hereinafter, coupling 150 is provided with a gap between pin 155 (rotational force transmission component), and rotational force receiving surface 147h (transmission portion of rotational force ) coupled with it (Figure 8D) such that it can be tilted substantially in all directions relative to the L4 axis.

In this way, coupling 150 is mounted on the longitudinal end portion of cartridge B. Thus, coupling 150 can be tilted in substantially all directions relative to the axis of rotation L4. As described hereinafter, in the state that the cartridge B is mounted on a rotating member C, the coupling 150 receives the rotational force from the motor shaft 180 and transmits the rotational force to the developing roller 110 (and to the roller 115 supply). Coupling 150 has rotational force receiving surface 150e for receiving rotational force from motor shaft 180 by coupling with pin 182, and pin (projection) 155 for transmitting received rotational force through surface 150e to the development roller 110. Pin 182 is the rotational force application portion. The rotational force receiving surface 150e is the transmission component of the rotational force. Pin 155 is the transmission component of rotational force. Pin 155 engages rotational force receiving surface 147h (rotational force transmitting portion) to transmit rotational force to receiving surface 147h. Thus, gear 147 rotates, to transmit rotational force to developing roller 110 through first gear portion 147a of gear 147. Rotational force is transmitted to supply roller 115 through second gear portion 147b. , of gear 147.

As the rotatable member C rotates, the coupling 150 contacts the motor shaft 180 in accordance with the movement of the cartridge B. Therefore, the coupling 150 moves from the pre-coupling angular position to the transmission angular position of the rotational force to the authorization portion 160b2 from the regulation portion 160bl. Thus, coupling 150 opposes motor shaft 180 to receive rotational force from motor shaft 180. And when, the rotating member C further rotates from the position in which the coupling 150 opposes the motor shaft 180, the coupling 150 moves from the angular position of transmission of rotational force to the angular position of disengagement, according to the movement of cartridge B. Because of this, coupling 150 decouples from the shaft

180 engine.

As shown in Figure 8B), the gear 147 is provided with a coupling mounting portion 147 j which houses the drive transmission portion 150b of the coupling 150.

The mounting portion 147 j is provided with the retaining portions 147k (the spherical portion) (147kl-147k4) to prevent disengagement of the gear 147. From the housed transmission portion 150b.

Figure 8B is a cross-sectional view illustrating the step of attaching coupling 150 to gear 147.

First, coupling 150 moves in an X33 direction. Thereafter, the transmission portion 150b is inserted into the mounting portion 147j. Before insertion, the diameter φΖ6 of the retaining portion 150i (the spherical portion) is greater than the diameter D15 (Figure (A) of the circle consisting of the lines 147m of the inner edge (147ml-147m4) of the 147k portion of retention In other words, the relation of Z6&gt; D15 is satisfied.

In accordance with the insertion of the transmission portion 150b, the retention portion 147k (147kl-147k4) is temporarily racially retracted out of gear 147 by elastic deformation thereof. By this, the transmission portion 150b can be inserted into the mounting portion 147j. In other words, the relation D15&gt; z6 is temporarily satisfied. When the insertion of the transmission portion 150b to the mounting portion 147j is completed, the retaining portion 147k (147kl147k4) is elastically restored. In other words, the relationship of Z6&gt; D15 is satisfied.

Then, the retaining member 156 is inserted in the direction of arrow X33, and is attached to gear 147. Here, the outer diameter DIO of the drive portion 150a is less than the diameter D16 of an opening 156i of member 156 retention. In other words, the relation of D16&gt; DIO is satisfied. By satisfying this relationship, in the state that the coupling 150 is inserted into the gear 147, the retaining member 156 can be inserted into the gear 14 7. As shown in Figure 8C), by inserting the retaining member, elastic deformation of the retaining portion 147k (147kl-147k4) radially out of gear 147 is prevented. Thus, the ratio of Z6 is maintained&gt; D15. In this state, even in the case where the force in the opposite direction from the insertion direction is applied to the coupling 150, decoupling of the coupling 150 and the engagement 147 can be avoided. Furthermore, the force in the opposite direction to the insertion direction is the force in the X34 direction when the coupling 150 (the transmission portion 150b) is decoupled from the mounting portion 147j. This is because the transmission portion 150b contacts the retaining surface 1471 (14711-14714, (not shown

14713 and 14714), Figure 8B)), of the retention portion 147k, and further movement is restricted. Mounting portion 147j is provided within gear 147.

By this, the coupling 150, the gear 147 and the retaining member 156 are unified to provide a drive unit Y (Figures 8C, 8A and Figure 16B).

As shown in Figure 8E, the retaining member 156 as will be described hereinafter, which functions as a retaining portion 157a of the coupling of the supporting member 157, can be unified with the supporting member 1578. In this case, the step of attaching the retaining member 156 to the gear 147 is omitted, in the step described above. During mounting of coupling 150 as will be described hereafter, with a developing device chassis 113 (the cartridge chassis), the coupling retaining portion 157a of the support member 157 is inserted into gear 147 (Figure 8F ). In the state shown in Figure 8F, the retaining portion 157a prevents elastic deformation, radially outward of the retaining portion 147k (147kl-147k4) of gear 147. Thus, the retaining portion 157a prevents decoupling of the coupling 150 and engagement 147. The function of the retaining portion 157a described above is the same as the function of the retaining member 156.

Coupling 150 can move (can rotate) between the angular position of transmission of rotational force, and the angular position of disengagement, and between the angular position of transmission of rotational force, and the angular position of pre-coupling in gear 147 in gear 147. Retaining portion 147k (147kl-147k4) restricts movement of coupling 150 in direction X34 relative to gear 147. In other words, the line 147m of the inner edge (14 7ml-14 7m4) of an opening has a diameter &lt;pD15 less than the diameter Z6 of the retaining portion 150i.

As described above in the text, a bearing portion 160a rotatably engages gear 147 (rotating member) which has developing gear portion (first gear portion) 147a, and portion 147b of supply roller gear (the second gear portion). Coupling 150 is mounted inside gear 147. Coupling 150 is mounted. By such a structure, the coupling mounting structure is compact. Similar to projection 150d, it is desirable that a rotational force transmitting surface 150hl or 150h2 (the rotational force transmitting component) diametrically oppose on the same circumference.

By unifying as described above, coupling 150, and gear 147 can be treated as one unit. Thus, it is easy to handle at the time of assembling the coupling 15 0 to the cartridge B. Therefore, an improvement in the assembly properties can be achieved. If the resistance of the retention portion 1457k ​​is sufficient, the retention member can be omitted.

As described above in the text, coupling 150 is mounted on gear 147 such that the rear end portion thereof can rotate within gear 147 (rotating member), and coupling 150 does not decouple from gear 147 In other words, coupling 150 has retaining portion 150i (spherical portion) such that movement toward the free end portion is regulated in the longitudinal direction (axis direction L2) of coupling 150. Pin 155 (rotational force transmission component) projects in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the retaining portion 150i. The movement of the retaining portion 150i towards the free end portion is regulated by the retaining portion 147k. By such a structure, the coupling mounting structure is compact.

The free end portion of coupling 150 is the side which is opposed to motor shaft 180 (the side coupled to motor shaft 180) in the state that cartridge B is mounted to rotating member C. The rear end portion it is the side opposite the free end portion, and it is the side on which rotational force is transmitted to the developing roller 110 (the side mounted on gear 147).

Referring to Figures 10A1-10A5 and 10B1-10B5, the description will be made as to the range of motion of coupling 150 relative to gear 147.

Figure 10 is a view showing a connection state between gear 147 and coupling 150. (al) - (a5) of Figure 10 are views, when viewed in the direction of motor shaft 180, and (bl) - (b5) of Figure 10 are perspective views thereof.

As seen in Figure 10, coupling 150 is mounted such that its axis of rotation L2 can tilt in all directions relative to axis L4. The motor shaft 180 is provided in the main assembly A at the longitudinal end portion of the rotating member C. The motor shaft 180 is provided in the predetermined position in the main assembly A so that it can rotate. The motor shaft 180 is fixed to the main assembly A such that it does not move in the direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation thereof. In other words, the axis of rotation of the motor axis 180 per se does not move in the direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation thereof. The motor shaft 180 is not mounted on a member which is to be swung in the direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation thereof with the rotating member C. The L2 axis is coaxial with the L4 axis (al), and (bl) in Figure 10. The

Figures 10A2 and 10B2 show the state when the coupling

150 being leans up from this state. The

<td>coupling</td><td colspan="2">150 bows</td><td>towards an opening</td><td>147g.</td><td colspan="2">In this</td>

<td colspan="2">state, the pin</td><td colspan="2">155 transmission moves</td><td>to what</td><td>long</td><td>of</td>

<td>The opening</td><td>147g</td><td>((Figure</td><td>10A2 and B2). How</td><td colspan="2">Outcome,</td><td>the</td>

<td>coupling</td><td> 150</td><td colspan="2">lean around</td><td>a</td><td>axis</td><td>Ax</td>

<td>perpendicular</td><td>to</td><td>opening</td><td>14 7g.</td><td></td><td></td><td></td>

<td>In the</td><td colspan="2">Figures 10A3</td><td colspan="2">and 10B3, the coupling</td><td> 150</td><td>I know</td>

<td colspan="2">leans towards the</td><td>right.</td><td colspan="2">When the coupling</td><td> 150</td><td>I know</td>

<td>leans on the</td><td colspan="3">orthogonal, perpendicular direction</td><td>to</td><td colspan="2">opening</td>

<td colspan="2">147g, the pin</td><td>155 tour</td><td colspan="2">at opening 147g. The</td><td>axis</td><td>of the</td>

pin 155 at the time pin 155 rotates, is the center axis AY of pin 155.

In Figures 10A4 and 10B4, and Figures 10A5 and 10B5, the state in which the coupling 150 is tilted down, and the state in which it is tilted to the left, is shown. Coupling 150 is tilted around axes of rotation AX and AY.

Here, the inclination of the coupling 150 is a combined inclination of the rotation about the AX axis, and the rotation around the AY axis. Furthermore, this address is the address shown in Figures 10A2 and 10A3; 10A3 and 10A4; 10A4 and 10A5; and 10A5 and 10A2. In this way, the L2 axis can be tilted in all directions relative to the L1 axis.

The L2 axis has been described as tiltable in all directions relative to the L4 axis. However, the L2 axis need not be able to tilt to the predetermined angle in any direction about 360 degrees relative to the L4 axis. For example, the opening 147g becomes relatively wide in the circumferential direction, for example, With such a configuration, when the L2 axis is tilted relative to the L4 axis, the coupling 150 rotates slightly around the L2 axis even in the case where the coupling cannot be tilted linearly to the predetermined angle. Thus, the L2 axis can be tilted to the predetermined angle relative to the L4 axis. In other words, a play in the rotational direction of opening 147g can be appropriately selected, as needed.

As described above in the text with reference to Figures 8A-8F, a spherical surface 150i contacts the retention surface 1471. For this reason, coupling 150 is rotatably mounted around the center P2 of spherical surface 150i. In other words, shaft L2 can be tilted independently of a phase of gear 147. In other words, coupling 150 can rotate relative to axis L4. As will be described hereinafter, in order to couple the coupling 150 with the motor shaft 180, it is necessary for the shaft L2 to tilt towards the downstream side relative to a rotational direction X4, relative to the axis L4, immediately before coupling.

As shown in Figures 11A-11D, in other words, the axis L2 of the coupling 150 needs to be tilted relative to the axis L4, such that the position of the drive portion 150a is downstream relative to the Rotational direction X4 of rotating member C.

Figure 2 illustrates the state that the L2 axis tilts relative to the L4 axis. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along S24-S24 of Figure 2.

By means of the structure described above, the coupling can also be moved to the state in which the L2 axis is substantially parallel to the L4 axis, from the state in which the L2 axis tilts as shown in Figure 9. The maximum possible angle of inclination "4 (Figure 9) of axis L4 and axis L2, is the angle at which a drive portion 150a and intermediate portion 150c contact the end member 151 and support member 157. Angle "4 can be set as the required angle when mounting and unmounting on the main assembly.

Here, the maximum possible angle of inclination "4 is 20 degrees-80 degrees in the case of the present embodiment. In the foregoing it has been described above in the text that it is necessary for the L2 axis to tilt downstream in the rotational direction X4 relative to the L4 axis, immediately before the coupling 150 to engage the motor axis 180. The method of regulation or confinement will be described.

(6) Angular position regulating member

Referring to Figures 12A-12D and Figures 13A-13G, the description will be made as to the angular position adjusting member (the adjusting member) to regulate the tilt direction of coupling 150.

The angular position of transmission of rotational force is the first angular position. The pre-coupling angular position is the second angular position. The decoupling angular position is the third angular position.

In accordance with the regulating member 160 of the present embodiment, the coupling 150 can be maintained in the pre-coupling angular position (second angular position) even if it is before the cartridge B is mounted on the rotating member C. The coupling 150 can be held in the pre-coupling angular position (second angular position) also in the free state of cartridge B. Therefore, when cartridge B is transported, for example, inadvertent movement of coupling 150 is avoided.

This is one of the notable effects according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 12A is a perspective view of the regulating portion 160, when viewed from the outside, with respect to the longitudinal direction of the developing roller 110. Figure 12B is a side view of the regulating portion 160, when viewed from the outside. Figures 12C and 12D illustrate another embodiment of a configuration of the regulating portion 160. Figure 13Ά is a perspective view illustrating the mating relationship between coupling 150 and regulating portion 160 in the state that coupling 150 is in the angular position of rotational force transmission (as will be described hereinafter in ahead) . FIG. 13B is a perspective view illustrating the mating relationship between coupling 150, and regulating portion 160 in the state that coupling 150 is in the angular coupling position (as will be described hereinafter). In addition, Figures 13C and 13D illustrate the states of the gear 147 and the retaining member 156 in the state of Figure 13A, and Figure 13B. Figure 13E is a perspective view illustrating the state in which the coupling portion 150j, to be regulated, is positioned in a positioning portion 160bl (regulation portion). Figure 13F is and a perspective view illustrating the state in which the regulation portion 150j is positioned in the authorization portion 160b2. Figure 13G is a perspective view of the coupling 150 coupled with the regulating portion 160, when viewed from the bottom. In Figure 13G, the lower part of the regulating portion 160 is not illustrated. Actually, regulating portion 160 is provided with the bottom, and therefore, regulating portion 150j is not visible.

The regulating portion 160 is provided with the circular portion 160a of the bearing and the housing portion 160b of the regulating portion. Regulating member 160 is provided with a slot 160g. A housing portion 160b is a slot. Friction portion 160a surrounds slot 160g. The housing portion 160b includes a positioning portion 160bl and an authorization portion 160b2. Regulating member 160 is integrated with bearing 138 described above. Therefore, regulating member 160 is provided on an external surface of bearing 138.

The bearing portion 160a rotatably supports the inner surface 147i (Figure 8B) of the gear 147. The inner surface 147i mates with an outer surface of the bearing portion 160a. Therefore, gear 147 is rotatably mounted on bearing portion 160a. The regulating portion 150j is accommodated fits in the housing portion 160b. In this state, coupling 150 can freely rotate within range because regulating portion 150j does not interfere with wall 160b3 of a housing portion. The portion 150j to be regulated has a cylindrical shape. The portion 150 ja to be regulated projects to the opposite side of the intermediate portion 150c, coaxially with the axis L2, from the actuation portion 150b. The portion 150j to be regulated projects from the end of the coupling 150. More specifically, the portion 150j to be regulated is coaxial with the retaining portion 150i (spherical portion), and projects in the opposite direction of the retaining portion 150i. With such a structure, the coupling mounting structure is compact. Before mating with the motor shaft 180, the mating 150 takes the pre-mating angular position by the elastic material (the push member) or the like as will be described hereafter. At this time, the portion 150 ja to be regulated makes contact with the positioning portion 160bl (regulation portion). More particularly, the tilt direction of the coupling 150 is regulated by contacting a portion of a circular column portion of the portion 150j to be regulated (projected) with a wall 160b4 of the V-shaped slot portion, such as the portion 16 Positioning obi. The portion 150j to be regulated (projected) of the coupling 150 projects to a final end on the opposite side of the end which is provided with the rotational force receiving surface 150e (rotational force receiving portion). The portion 150j to be regulated is regulated in the tilt direction by contacting a narrow portion 160b7 of the V-shaped slot portion 160b4 as the positioning portion 16 Obi. The coupling 150 is regulated at the angle of inclination by the adjacency of the regulating portion 150j with the positioning portion 16Obi. Therefore, coupling 150 is positioned in the optimal pre-coupling angular position, for coupling with the shaft

180 engine. In this way, the regulating portion 150j is regulated in the tilt direction by the positioning portion 160bl. Thus, the coupling 150 is positioned at .10 the pre-coupling angular position (in Figure 13E, the inclined coupling 150 is positioned at the pre-coupling angular position). This position will be described here in

<td>ahead. The</td><td>160bl serving</td><td>of</td><td colspan="3">positioning works like that</td>

<td>portion of</td><td colspan="2">positioning</td><td>just in the</td><td>case where</td><td>the</td>

<td>15 coupling</td><td colspan="2">150 is in</td><td>the position</td><td>angle of</td><td>pre-</td>

<td>coupling.</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td>

<td>At</td><td>case where</td><td>the</td><td>coupling</td><td>150 is in</td><td>a</td>

position other than the angular pre-coupling position, it can move freely within the range in which the regulating portion 150j does not interfere with the wall 160b3 of the authorization portion 160b2. In the case where the coupling 150 is in the position between the pre-coupling angular position, and the rotational force transmission angular position, the rotational force transmission angular position, a position between the transmission angular position of rotational force, and the disengagement angular position, or the disengagement angular position, in the range that the regulating portion 150j does not interfere with the wall 1603 of the authorization portion 160b2, it can move freely. In other words, in the case where the portion 150j to be regulated does not contact the positioning portion 160bl (regulation portion), the coupling 150 can rotate (in Figure 13F, and Figure 13E, coupling 150 perpendicular). By doing so by securing it, in the state in which the coupling 150 is in coupling with the motor shaft 180, when it moves from the angular position of pre-coupling to the angular position of transmission of rotational force, or when it moves from In a position of transmitting rotational force to the disengaging angular position, coupling 150 can be moved from motor shaft 180. Therefore, in the case where the rotating member C, as will be described hereinafter, moves radially, more particularly, in the case where the coupling 150 moves in the radial direction of the rotating member C. Therefore, coupling 150 can be smoothly coupled with motor shaft 180 and can be smoothly disengaged from motor shaft 180. The authorization portion 160b2 is formed by a wide portion 160b8.

In the case where the coupling 150 is moved from a position other than the pre-coupling angular position a '

the angular position of pre-engagement by the push member, the portion 150j to be regulated is guided by the wall 160b3 of the authorization portion 160b2, and is guided to the positioning portion 160bl. Coupling 150 tilts to the pre-coupling angular position.

As described above in the text, regulation member 160 has positioning portion 160bl (/ regulation portion) to regulate engagement 150 in the pre-engagement angular position prior to engagement with

<td>the axis 180 motor, and the</td><td>portion 160b2</td><td>of</td><td colspan="2">authorization</td><td>for</td>

<td>allow rotation</td><td>substantial</td><td>of the</td><td>member</td><td> 150</td><td>of</td>

<td>coupling.</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td>

<td colspan="2">As for the configuration of</td><td>the</td><td>portion</td><td>160b</td><td>of</td>

housing to be regulated, the configuration shown in Figure 12C and Figure 12D can be used, if the positioning portion 162a and the portion 162b fulfill the functions described above. In the embodiment shown in Figure 12C, the configuration of the positioning portion 160b6 (the regulation portion, and the configuration of the authorization portion 160b2 is a curved surface. In the embodiment shown in Figure 12D the configuration of the authorization portion 160b2 is curved.

As described above in the text, regulating member 160 is provided with slot 160g. Slot 160g includes a narrow portion 160b7 as the positioning portion 160bl, as the regulation portion, and a wide portion 160b8 as the authorization portion 160b2. The rear end of coupling 150 includes portion 150j to be adjusted (projected) which projects. In the state in which the portion 150j to be regulated is positioned in the narrow portion 160b7, the inclination direction of the coupling 150 is restricted to the pre-coupling angular position, and in the state in which the portion 150j to be regulated is positions in the wide portion 160b8, the inclination of the coupling 150 to the angular position of transmission of rotational force from the angular position of pre-coupling is allowed. The portion 150j to be regulated is regulated by contacting the wall 160b4 of the narrow portion 160b7. In the case where the portion 150j to be regulated is positioned in the authorization portion 160b2, the coupling 150 can rotate. In other words, coupling 150 can rotate relative to axis L4. In the state in which the coupling 150 can rotate, the portion 150j to be regulated is in the wide portion 160b8, and is not in contact with the wall 160b3.

The peripheral surface of groove 160g is surrounded by circular bearing portion 160a (circular portion). The bearing portion 160a rotatably engages the gear 147 (the rotating member) which has the developing gear portion 147a (first gear portion), and the supply roll portion 147b (second gear portion) . Coupling 150 is mounted inside gear 147, and in the case where coupling 150 (portion 150j to be regulated) is positioned in clearance portion 160b2, coupling 150 can rotate substantially.

As described above in the text, in the regulating member 160 of the present embodiment, even before the cartridge b is mounted on the rotating member C, the coupling 150 can be kept in the angular position of pre-coupling (second angular position). In other words even in the case where the cartridge B is in the free state, the coupling 150 can be held in the pre-coupling angular position (second angular position). Therefore, during transportation of cartridge B, for example, inadvertent movement of coupling 150 can be avoided.

Referring to Figures 14 and 15, the description will be made as to the elastic material of the coupling (push member) to move the coupling to the pre-coupling angular position. FIG. 14 is a perspective view illustrating the state in which the elastic material 159 is mounted on the support member 157. FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the cartridge B in the state in which the push member 159 is mounted on the support member 157.

As shown in. Figure 14, a side surface 157i of the support member 157 (mounting member) is provided with a spring mounting portion 158el and a spring rotation stop 157e2. A coil component (end) 159b of a torsion coil spring 159 (push member and resilient material) is attached to the mounting portion 157el. A rotation stop arm 159c for a spring 159 contacts the spring rotation stop e2. As shown in Figure 15, the contacting portion 159a of the spring 159 contacts the intermediate portion 150c of the coupling 150. In this state, the spring 159 is twisted to produce the spring force. Because of this, the axis L2 of the coupling 150 tilts relative to the axis L4 (Figure 15). In other words, coupling 150 tilts to the pre-coupling angular position. The contact position of the spring 159 relative to the intermediate portion 150c is on the upstream side of the center of the coupling actuation portion 150b 150 in the rotational direction X4. For this reason, the axis L2 is inclined relative to the axis L4, such that the side of the drive portion (150a) moves to the downstream side with respect to the rotational direction X4. Rotational direction X4 shows the rotational direction of rotating member C.

In this embodiment, although the torsion coil spring is used as spring 159, this is not restrictive in the present invention. For example, this may be another elastic material (push member), for example, a leaf spring, rubber, sponge. However, a certain amount of stroke is required in order to tilt the L2 axis. For this reason, it is preferable to have a certain career. In order to cause the coupling 150 to be positioned in the pre-coupling angular position (first angular position), the spring 159 (push member and elastic material) pushes the coupling 150 by the elastic force thereof, such that that coupling 150 is positioned in regulating portion 160bl. By pushing the coupling by means of the spring elastic force (pushing member, and elastic material), the coupling 150 can be held in the pre-coupling angular position (first angular position) more securely. In other words, by means of spring 159 (push member and elastic material), coupling 140 is elastically pushed into position 160bl of positioning (regulation portion).

When the rotating member C rotates, the coupling 150 makes contact with the motor shaft 180 by the movement of the cartridge B. Therefore, the coupling 150 moves to the authorization portion 160b2 from the regulating portion 160bl, against the elastic force of the spring 159 (elastic material). With this movement, the coupling 150 moves from the pre-coupling angular position to the rotational force transmission angular position. Thus, coupling 150 opposes motor shaft 180, to receive rotational force from motor shaft 180. When the rotating member C further rotates from the position in which the coupling 150 opposes the motor shaft 180, the coupling 150 moves from the angular position of transmission of rotational force to the angular position of disengagement, against the elastic force of the spring 159, according to the movement of cartridge B. By this, coupling 150 is decoupled from motor shaft 180.

(7) Coupling the coupling with the chassis

Referring to Figures 16A-16E, the method of mounting the coupling 150 to the development device chassis (cartridge chassis) will be described. Figure 16A is a perspective view of cartridge B before gear 147 including coupling 150 and retaining member 156, support member 147 (rotating member), and spring 159 are mounted. Figure 16B is a perspective view of cartridge B before mounting on a mounting member 157, and spring 159. Figure 16C is a perspective view of cartridge B before mounting on spring 159. Figure 16D is a view in perspective of cartridge B after completion of assembly. Figure 16E is an exploded perspective view of cartridge B in the longitudinal direction after completion of assembly, with an unaltered positional relationship in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

<td>The</td><td>bearing 138 is supplied with</td><td>the</td><td>member</td><td> 160</td><td>of</td>

<td>regulation</td><td>, the developer roller 110</td><td>and the</td><td>roller</td><td> 115</td><td>of</td>

<td>supply</td><td>of developer are mounted on</td><td>the</td><td>chassis</td><td> 113</td><td>of the</td>

development device (cartridge chassis). A developer roller gear 145 to transmit rotational force from gear 147 to developer roller 110 is mounted on developer roller 110. A developer supply roller gear 146 to transmit rotational force from the gear 147 to the developer supply roller 115, is mounted on the developer supply roller 115.

The bearing 138 is mounted by screws 138a on an extreme longitudinal portion of the chassis 113 of the developing device (Figures 16A and B).

First, drive unit U (gear 147 which is provided with coupling 150 and retaining member 156) is mounted on regulating member 160 (Figures 16A and 16B). At this time, the circular portion of the column as the portion 150j (projection) to be regulated is received by the slot as the housing portion 160b (Figure 13B). The inner surface 147i mates with an outer circular surface of the bearing portion 160a (the circular portion). Hence, gear 147 is rotatably mounted on bearing portion 160a (Figures 16A and 16B). In this state, the gear portion 147a of the gear 14 7 mates with the gear 14 5 of the developing roller to transmit rotational force to the developing roller 110. A gear portion 147b of the supply roll of gear 147 mates with gear 146 of the developer supply roll, to transmit rotational force to roller 115. Coupling 150 is freely movable in the range in which portion 150j to be regulated does not interfere with the wall of housing portion 160b in regulating member 160. The bearing portion 160a as the circular portion, surrounds the groove 16Og (Figures 12A12C).

The support member 157 is then mounted to the chassis 113 of the developing device (Figure 16D). In the case of mounting, the coupling 150 passes through an opening 157j of the support member 157, and the bearing 138, and the support member 157 make contact with each other. The blow member 157 has a positioning portion (not shown) in one position, and a rotation stop (not shown) in a position relative to the chassis 113 of the developing device. The support member 157 is positioned relative to the width direction of the chassis 113 of the developing device. Gear 147 is rotatably supported by bearing portion 160a as a gear support portion. The retaining portion 157k-1571 prevents decoupling of the retaining member 156 (the retaining ring) and the engagement 147. The supporting member 157 is mounted to the chassis 113 of the developing device by screws 157a, 157b. The method for mounting the bearing 138, and the supporting member 157 to the chassis 113 of the developing device is appropriately selected by those skilled in the art. Finally, spring 159 is mounted to a spring support portion 157el of support member 157 (Figure 16D). At this time, the intermediate portion 150c of the coupling 150 comes into contact with the direction thrust downstream of the contact portion 159a of the spring 159. In this state, the coupling 150 is tilted towards the downstream direction with respect to the rotational direction X4 of the rotating member C, by the spring 159. In this state, the portion 150j to be regulated is brought into contact with the portion 160bl of positioning. The positioning portion 160bl is V-shaped, and the portion 150j to be regulated is brought into contact with the V-shaped slot portion 16 0b4. In other words, coupling 150 is positioned in the pre-coupling angular position.

As for the mounting method described above, the order of the steps can be changed, for example, after mounting the gear 147 on the support member 157 (the rotating member), these are mounted on the chassis 113 of the developing device .

As described above in the text, the peripheral surface of the groove 160g is surrounded by the circular portion 160a of the bearing (circular portion). The bearing portion 160 'a as the circular portion rotatably engages with the gear 147 (rotatable member), which is provided with the first gear portion 147a, and the second gear portion 147b. In the case where the coupling 150 is mounted inside the gear 147, and the portion 150j to be adjusted is positioned in the authorization portion 160b2 the coupling 150 can rotate substantially.

While the portion 150j to be regulated is positioned in the authorization portion 160b2, in the coupling, a space is provided between the pin 155 (rotational force transmission component), and the rotational force receiving surface 147h ( rotational force transmitting portion) to receive the rotational force of pin 155 so that it can rotate substantially. Pin 155 can be moved relative to receiving surface 147h. In the direction of rotation of the coupling 150, the pin 155 and the receiving surface 147h contact each other. Coupling 150 is provided at the end of cartridge B.

More particularly, mp at coupling 150, a space is provided between pin 155 (rotational force transmission component), and rotational force receiving surface 147h) such that it can rotate substantially in the in-state state. that the portion 150j to be regulated is positioned in the authorization portion 160b&gt; 2. The pin 155 (rotational force transmission component) can be moved relative to the rotational force receiving surface 147h (rotational force transmission portion). In the direction of rotation in which the coupling 150 rotates, the pin 155, and the rotational force receiving surface 147h contact each other. Pin 155 transmits rotational force received from motor shaft 180 to developing roller 110 through rotational force receiving surface 150e (rotational force receiving portion). Pin 155 is provided in coupling 150. Rotational force receiving surface 147h is provided within gear 147 as the rotating member.

(8) Method of mounting and dismounting the developer cartridge relative to the main set of electrophotographic imaging apparatus

Referring to Figures 17-19, the assembly and disassembly operation of cartridge B will be described in relation to main assembly A.

Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a developer cartridge mount and demount standby (standby) position HP in which rotary member C moves to a predetermined angular phase from a DP developer position. The rotating member C takes the standby position HP (initial position) except during the developing operation, and the mounting and dismounting operations of the cartridge Β (B1-B4) are also carried out in the position. In this mode, only a position approximately 45 degrees upstream of the DP development position is the standby position H.

The assembly and disassembly operations of the cartridge B in relation to the rotating member C are carried out by the user in the state in which the rotating member C is at rest in the waiting position H.

During mounting and dismounting of cartridge B (BlB4) relative to rotating member C, cover 13 is first opened. With this, the user can mount and remove cartridge Β (B1-B4) relative to rotating member C. Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the state in which the yellow cartridge B1 from among the four cartridges B is positioned in the standby position H. The cover 13 is opened. Cover 13 is operated in interrelated manner with a SW interlock (not shown). More particularly, upon releasing cover 13, interlock SW is placed in the OFF state to stop actuation in main assembly A. Cartridge release members are designated by 19 (Figure 4, Figure 17). Release member 19 operates a locking member (not shown) to secure cartridge B on rotating member C. more particularly, the securing member (not shown) is coupled by the release member 19 with a guide portion 60b (portion to be secured) (Figure 19), whereby cartridge B can be secured by the rotating member C. A guide portion 60b is provided in cartridge B. Upon releasing cover 13, release member 19 moves the securing member (not shown) to the position in which it is no longer engaged with portion 60b of guide. With this, only in the cartridge B1 which is positioned in the standby position HP, the rotating member C is released, therefore, the user can remove the cartridge B1 from the rotating member C (Figure 17, Figure 18). As described above in the text, cartridge B has guide portion 60b to be guided in the direction perpendicular to the direction of axis L1 of developer roller 110 (the longitudinal direction of developer roller 110).

As shown in Figure 4, when the user closes cover 13, the projection 13a provided in cover 13 rotates the release member 19 counterclockwise. Therefore, the release member 19 couples the securing member (not shown) with the guide portion 60b. Accordingly, when cover 13 is closed, cartridge B is secured with rotating member C. When the interlock SW is in the ON state, all cartridges B (B1-B4) mounted on the rotating member C. are secured for this reason, the problem that the drive mechanism of the main assembly A can be safely avoided boot inadvertently, with cartridge B (BlB4) not secured.

The mounting of cartridge B in the main assembly will be described.

As shown in Figure 18, when the user grasps handle 564, the orientation of cartridge B is generally determined by the center of gravity of the cartridge. This orientation is close to the orientation required when cartridge B passes through opening 30 provided in an upper portion of main assembly A.

Cartridge B is provided with an elongated cartridge side guide 60b, and a shaft portion 60a at the end, with respect to the longitudinal direction of cartridge B (developer roller 110) (Figure 2). Cartridge B is provided with an elongated lateral cartridge guide 61b, and a shaft portion 61a, at the other longitudinal end (Figure 3). The axis portions 60a, 61a are coaxial with the axis Ll of the developer roller 110. Shaft portions 60a and guide 60b are provided on the outer surface of member 157

<td>of support.</td><td>The</td><td>portion 61a</td><td>shaft and guide 61b</td><td>I know</td>

<td>provide</td><td>in</td><td>the surface</td><td>external of a member</td><td> 139</td>

<td>side.</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td>

<td colspan="2">The member</td><td>rotary C se</td><td>provides a lateral guide</td><td>C2</td>

of the rotating member at the end longitudinal portion, and the other end, where cartridge B is mounted.

Main assembly A is provided with guide 17 of the main assembly (Figure 19, (a) and (b)). In Figure 4 and Figure 17 guide 17 of the main assembly is omitted for the sake of simplicity.

By mounting the cartridge B on the rotating member C, the shaft portion 60a attached to the opposite ends of the cartridge B is guided in the regulation projection 17a of the guide 17 of the main assembly, and the shaft portion 61a is guided in the adjustment projection 17b of the guide 17 of the main assembly (Figure 19 (a)). As shown in Figure 19 (a), and, when the cartridge B is moved on the rotating member C from a guide 17, the free ends of the guide 60b, 61b are inserted in engagement with the guide grooves C2 (Figure 19 (b)) of the oratory member C. In this state, when the user imparts the force in a mounting direction, the cartridge B is inserted into the rotating member C. In this way, the cartridge B is mounted in a position of mounting. In this case, the shaft portion 60a and the shaft portion 61a are positioned in the positioning potion (not shown) of the rotating member C. In other words, the cartridge B is positioned in the main assembly A on the basis of the developer roller 110.

In the case where the cartridge B is removed from the main assembly A, the reverse operation is carried out.

By means of the structure described above, cartridge B is mounted on rotating member C (housing portion 130a), in the direction that intersects the longitudinal direction of cartridge B. Motor shaft 180 is disposed at the longitudinal end of the rotating member C. Therefore, the motor shaft 180 and the coupling 150 couple and uncouple the cartridge B mounted on the rotating member C (the housing portion 130a) relative to each other, and by moving in the direction substantially perpendicular to the axis direction. L3 of motor shaft 180 in response to rotation of rotating member C.

Furthermore, the axis of rotation of the rotary member C of the present invention can oscillate.

(9) Switching or exchange structure of developing cartridge (developing device)

Then, referring to Figures 20-23, the structure of the rotating member C will be described.

Figure 20, Figure 22 and Figure 23 are front views (a) of the drive transmission mechanism, when viewed from the side of the motor shaft (180). Subsection (a) of Figure 20 illustrates the state that the developer roller 110-1 of cartridge B1 is positioned in the developer position DP which opposes the photosensitive drum 107. Figure 21 is a view of the right side of the cartridge shown in subsection (a) of Figure 20. In part (a) of Figure 22 and part (a) of Figure 23, by rotation of press C in direction X4 from the state, shown in Figure 20, cartridge B1 is in an 18Y position post-development retracted, and a pre-development retracted 18Z position, respectively. Chassis 171 shown in Figure 21 is not illustrated in part (a) of Figure 20, part (a) of Figure 22 and part (a) of Figure 23. Transfer belt 104a, transfer roller 104j, coupling 150, and drive shaft 180 shown in part (a) of Figure 20, part (a) of Figure 22, and part (a) of Figure 23 does not illustrate in Figure 21.

Item (b) of Figure 20, item (b) of Figure 22, and item (b) of Figure 23 are perspective views of the motor shaft (180) side, in the states of item (a ) of Figure 20, subsection (a) of Figure 22, and subsection (a) of Figure 23, respectively. In these views the relationship between coupling 150, regulation portion 160, and motor shaft 180 is shown.

The drive transmission mechanism shown in Figures 20-23 sequentially moves each of the four cartridges B1-B4 supported on the rotating member C, to the developing position DP, which opposes a photosensitive drum 2, when rotating the rotating member C. The structure of the drive transmission mechanism will be described.

A drive gear 172 is supported on a shaft

107 rotatably supported by main assembly A, A gear 172 receives rotational force from motor M (drive source) to rotate.

The rotational drive force transmission mechanism MI, to transmit rotational force to gear 172 from motor M, is a gear train, for example a belt with gear teeth, but any structure that can transmit can be used rotational force.

An arm 103 is an oscillable member, swingably supported by main assembly A. More particularly, the one end portion of arm 103 is rotatably supported by shaft 107, provided on frame 171 of the chassis. An end portion of an arm spring (compression spring, for example), and 104 (elastic material) is mounted at the free end of the other end portion of the arm 103, which supports the rotating member C rotatably, and the other end portion of the arm spring 104 is fixed to the main assembly A. By this, the arm 103 receives a pushing force (the elastic force and the

<td>force</td><td>rotational)</td><td>around</td><td>of the</td><td>axis</td><td>of the</td><td>axis</td><td>107, for the</td>

<td>force</td><td>elastic</td><td>a muélie</td><td> 104</td><td>of</td><td>arm,</td><td>in</td><td>the direction</td>

<td>(Figure</td><td>20, Figure</td><td colspan="2">22) arrow</td><td>TO.</td><td></td><td></td><td></td>

As stated above, the rotating member C supports four cartridges B (B1-B4), and is rotatably supported on arm 103. In this way, cartridge B is mounted on rotating member C. Coupling 150 ( 150-1-150-4) of cartridge B (B1-B4), which supports rotating member C, projects from rotating member C (Figure 20, Figure 22, Figure 23). Therefore, the rotational force is transmitted from the motor shaft 180, not integrated with the rotating member C, to the coupling 150 (150-1-150-4). More particularly, transmission of rotational force from motor shaft 180 to cartridge B (B1-B4) is possible. Cartridge B1 is supplied with a 150-1 coupling. Cartridge B-2 is supplied with a 150-1 coupling, a B3 cartridge is supplied with a 150-3 coupling, and a B4 cartridge is supplied with a 150-4 coupling. The couplings have structures similar to the coupling 150 described above.

Rotating member C is provided with a gear portion 102a (gear of the rotating support member), which extends along the circumferential direction, which is the rotary member C. The gear portion 102a engages with the drive gear 172. In other words, rotating member C is rotated in the direction of arrow X4 by rotation, in the direction (Figure 20, Figure 22, and Figure 23) of arrow A, of drive gear 172. And, Rotating member C is stopped by stopping rotation of gear 172.

A regulating roller 105 is rotatably supported by a roller support 106 provided in the main assembly A. The regulating roller 105 is a regulating member for regulating the rocking motion of the rotary member C. Noise reduction, and Safe rotation, due to a high coefficient of friction, can be achieved if the surface layer of the regulating roller 105 is a rubber layer which has elasticity.

Roller 105 has elasticity, and is rotatably supported by a shaft 106a securely attached to main assembly A. Shaft 106a supporting roller 105 extends parallel to the axis of rotation of rotary member C. When it rotates Rotating member C, roller 105 contacts a contact portion 10-10H of cam 101 to be rotated, as will be described hereafter.

A cam 101 (rotating member) is rotated integrally with rotating member C (guide member). The cam 101 includes the contact portion 10-lOlh, which can contact the roller 105, and the separating portion 10-lOld (contact release portion) which does not contact the roller 105. The portions 10- Separation lOlds are cavities, which have substantially the same configuration as the external configuration of roller 105. The contact portions lOle-lOlh, and the separating portions lOla-lOld (cavities), are arranged alternately along the external surface of cam 101 at substantially regular angular intervals, as seen from a lOli axis of rotation of the cam 101. Cams 101 are provided at the end with respect to the longitudinal direction of cartridges B1-B4 supported on rotating member C, and are integrated with rotating member C.

The separating portions lOla-lOld are provided as cavities in each of the two or more positions along the rotational direction X2 (Figure 20, Figure 22, Figure 23) of the cams 101. The cavities are provided with a surface lOlm inclined which ascends to an upstream side from a downstream side, on the upstream side, with respect to the rotational direction X4. By providing the inclined surface lOlm (Figure 20, Figure 22, Figure 23), when the cartridges B1-B4 are separated in the crossing direction with the rotational direction, according to the rotation of the rotating member C, the operation is carried out out gently. More particularly, in response to the rotation of the rotating member C, when the cartridges B1-B4 are separated in the radial direction (the radial direction) of the rotating member C from the developing position DP, a smooth movement is performed.

Likewise, the cavities are provided with an inclined surface 101η (Figure 20, Figure 22, Figure 23) decreased towards the upstream side from the downstream side, on the downstream side with respect to the rotational direction X4. By providing the inclined surface 101η, when the cartridges B1-B4 are moved in the direction that crosses the rotational direction X4 towards the developing DP position according to the rotation of the rotating member C, they can be moved smoothly. In other words, when the cartridges B1-B4 are moved in the radial direction (the radial direction) of the rotating member C towards the developing position DP, according to the rotation of the rotating member C, smooth movement is performed.

The cams 101 rotate integrally with the rotating member C. When the contact portion 10 contacts a regulating roller 105 (regulating member, the developer roller 110-1 of the cartridge Bl is separated from the photosensitive drum 107. When another contact portion lOlf-lOh makes contact with the regulating roller 105, this separates from the developing roller (110-1-110-4) of the photosensitive drum 107 of the cartridge (B1-B4) (Figure 22, Figure 23) .

As shown in Figure 22, the rotatable cam member (rotatable support member) 101 (rotatable member), arm 103 (oscillating member), and regulating roller 105 (regulating member) are arranged on each of the longitudinal end portions, and the other longitudinal end portion of the cartridge B1.

The states shown in Figures 22 and 23 are the states in which the rotating member C rotates, as will be described hereafter. However, in addition to the states shown in Figures 22 and 23, there are the states in which the rotating member C is at rest, in the retracted position t. Here, the retracted position is the position in which none of the cartridges B1-B4 performs the developing operation. As shown in Figures 22 and 23, in this state, none of the developing rollers 110-1-110-4 is in contact with the photosensitive drum 107. For example, in Figure 22, developer roller 110-1 is in the retracted position 18Y, on the downstream side of roller 105. Similarly, in Figure 23, developer roller 110-1 is in the retracted position. 18Z on the upstream side of roller 105. In the retracted position, roller 105 supports the lower portion of rotating member C, at an end portion. Furthermore, roller 105 supports the lower portion of rotating member C, at the other end portion. Therefore, the rotating member C, which supports the cartridges B1-B4, is restricted in its swinging motion by the roller 105. The retracted position 18Z is the position which is the same as the standby position HP described above.

As shown in Figure 20, on the other hand, and roller 105, oppose each other in the state in which it is separated from the lower surface of cavity 101a (separation portion), in the state in which roller 110- Developing 1 is in contact with the photosensitive drum 107. This state is the state in which cartridge B1 is positioned in the DP development position. In this state, a developing roller 110-2 is in contact with photosensitive drum 107, and roller 105 is separated from the bottom surface of a cavity 101b. Similarly, roller 105 is detached from the bottom surface of a cavity 101c in this state. Furthermore, roller 105 is separated from the bottom surface of a lOld cavity in this state. In other words, cam 101 is separated from regulating roll 105.

Figures 20 and 21 illustrate the state during development, where roller 105 is positioned adjacent to a cavity 101a (-101d). And, cavity 101a (~ 101d) is positioned such that roller 105 and cam 101 are not in contact with each other. Consequently, the arm 103 pushed by the elastic force of the spring 104, pushes the rotating member C. And, This pushing force (elastic force) provides a contact pressure between each of the developing rollers (110-1-110-49 and the photosensitive drum 107.

The drive gear 172 receives the rotational force from the motor M, to rotate in the direction of arrow A. Then, as described above, the rotating member C rotates in the direction of arrow X4. Cam 101 provided on rotating member C also rotates in the direction of arrow X4, integrally with rotating member C. Figures 22 and 23 show the state in which rotary member C rotates upon receiving rotational force from drive gear 172. In Figure 22, the development operation ends at the Bl cartridge, the Bl cartridge retracts from the DP development position to the 18Y post-development retracted position, and the B-2 cartridge moves into the DP development position from the retracted position of pre-development 18Z. Similarly, in Figure 23, development ends at cartridge B4, cartridge B4 retracts from the DP development position to the post-development 18Y retracted position, and cartridge Bl moves to the DP development position from the retracted position of post-development 18Z.

Furthermore, the rotating member C is provided with the engagement portion 102a (engagement of the rotating support member) at the outer periphery. A drive gear 172 (oscillating member component) is provided coaxially with arm rotation axis 103a 103. Thus, gear 172, and gear portion 1902a engage between

100 yes. Therefore, even when the arm 103 oscillates, the gear 172 and the gear portion 102a are always in the state of coupling with each other.

The axis of rotation 103a is the axis of an arrow 172a which supports the gear 172 rotatably. The shaft or arrow 172a is securely attached to the frame 171 of the chassis. Arm end 103 is rotatably mounted to shaft or shaft 172a

As previously described with Figures 20, 22 and 23, the elastic force (pushing force) of spring 104, pressurizes roller 110-1 with photosensitive drum 107. When the rotating member C rotates from this state, the pressure contact state between the developing roller 110-1 and the photosensitive drum 107 is released. And, when the pressure contact state is released, the pushing force of the spring 104 applies contact pressurizes the cam 101 with the roller 105. Thus, the cam 101 can securely contact the roller 105.

The outer surfaces other than the separating portions (cavities) lOl-lOld are the contact portions lOlOh which contact the roller 105, as described above. In the state where the contact portions lOle-lOh contact the roller 105, the cartridges B1-B4 are not in contact with the

101 photosensitive drum 107. Accordingly, cartridges B1-B4 can be moved sequentially to the developing position, without the influence of photosensitive drum 107. The contact portions lOle-lOlh, and the separating portions lOla-lOld are arranged alternately along the rotational direction of the cams 101 (rotary member C). The IOL distance between the separating portions lOla-lOld, and the axis of rotation 10Ü of the cams 101 is shorter than the distance L2 between the contact portions lOle-lOlh and the axis of rotation lOli of the cam 101 (Figure 22 , Figure 239. When the cartridges (B1-B4) are moved to the development position do, a controller (not shown) blocks the rotational force of the drive gear 172, such that the rotating member C stops the rotation. The bl cartridge reaches the DP development position. The developer roller 110-1 (-110-4), and the photosensitive drum 107 are in pressure contact with each other in this DP developer position. As shown in Figure 20, in this state, the roller 105 opposes in the state that it is remote from the part (cavity) 101b (-101d) separating the cam (101). In other words, the separation portion 101b (-101d), and the roller 105 are separated. While repeating such an operation, cartridges B1-B4 move sequentially into the DP development position. In this embodiment, the space G (Figure 2) between the roller 105 and the bottom surface of the cavity 101b

102 As the separation portion, it is about 1.5mm.

Thus, in this embodiment, the rotating member C is provided with the cam 101 which has the contact portion lOle-lOlh, and the separating portion lOla-lOld integrally, and the main assembly A is provided with the roller 105 Thus, only by rotating the rotating member C, the cartridges B1-B4 (developer rollers 101-1-110-4) can come into contact, and separate relative to the photosensitive drum 107, while the movement of cartridges B1-B4.

Here the description will be made as to the operation of the coupling 150, referring to Figures 20, 22 and 23.

In the case where the cartridge B is in the pre-development 18Z retracted position (Figure 23), the coupling 150 is in the pre-coupling angular position, by the elastic force of the spring 159, previously described (Figure 23). As shown in subsection (b) of Figure 23, at this time, the portion 150j to be regulated comes into contact with the positioning portion 160bl of the housing portion 160b, such that the angular position of the coupling 150. In other words, coupling 150 is constrained in the pre-coupling angular position. In this way, the intermediate portion 150c of the coupling 150 is pushed by the elastic force of the spring 159. In this way

103 In this way, the coupling 150 is pushed in such a way that the portion 150j to be adjusted comes into contact with the positioning portion 160bl, by the elastic force of the spring 159. And, the inclination direction of the coupling 150 is restricted towards the position pre-coupling angle, in the state that the portion 150j to be regulated is positioned by the positioning portion 160bl. Therefore, coupling 150 is tilted to the pre-coupling angular position by the spring force (Figure 23).

In this state, the rotating member C rotates in the X4 direction, and the cartridge Bl, in the process in which it moves from the pre-developed 18Z retracted position (Figure 23) to the developing position C (Figure 20). ), the coupling engages the motor shaft 180. And, the coupling 150 moves from the pre-coupling angular position (Figure 23) to the rotational force transmission angular position (Figure 20).

In the case where the cartridge Bl is positioned in the developing position DP (Figure 20), the coupling 150 is in the angular position of transmission of rotational force, and is in coupling with the motor shaft 180. Coupling 150 receives rotational force from motor shaft 180. As shown in Figure 20 (b), at this time, the portion 150j to be regulated is in the authorization portion 160b2 of the housing portion 160b, without contacting the

104 wall 163b3. And, the position of the coupling 150 is determined by the coupling with the motor shaft 180.

With the coupling operation with the motor shaft 180, although the rotating member C rotates in the X4 direction, the coupling 150 moves from the pre-coupling angular position to the rotational force transmission angular position. With this, the portion 150j to be regulated moves in the authorization portion 160b2 from the contact position with the positioning portion 160bl, against the elastic force of the spring 159. The portion 150j to be regulated is not in contact with the wall 163b3 of the authorization portion 160b2.

By this, the coupling 150 enters the rotational state substantially, from the state in which it is in the angular pre-coupling position.

Rotating member C stops in the state that coupling 150 is in engagement with motor shaft 180. In other words, the motor shaft 180 is provided such that it engages the coupling 150 in the stop position of the rotating member C in the developing position DP.

In the state shown in Figure 20, the rotating member C rotates in the X4 direction. In the process in which cartridge B moves from the DP development position (Figure 20) to the post-development retracted position 18Y (Figure 22), the coupling 150 moves from the position ((b) of Figure

105

20) angle of transmission of rotational force to position ((b) of Figure 22) angle of decoupling. With this, the coupling between the coupling 150 and the motor shaft 180 is released, and the transmission of rotational force to the coupling 150 from the motor shaft 180 is released. By this, coupling 150 is decoupled from motor shaft 180.

Immediately after the coupling 150 is disengaged from the motor shaft 180, the coupling is in the disengaged angular position (Figure 22). As shown in Figure 22 (b), at this time, the portion 150j to be regulated is in the authorization portion 160b2 of the housing portion 160b without contacting the internal wall 163b3. And coupling 150 is in the disengaged angular position (Figure 22 (b)) to disengage from motor shaft 180.

When the position is reached in which the coupling 150, which is in the disengaging angular position, does not interfere with the motor shaft 180, it moves into a pre-coupling angular position due to the functions of the regulating member 160, and spring 159. In other words, coupling 150 tilts to the pre-coupling angular position. As shown in Figure 23 (b), and, the portion 150j to be regulated contacts the coupling portion 160bl, such that the angular coupling position enters the pre-coupling angular position.

106

This has been previously described in the text.

With rotation in the X4 direction, the rotating member C also moves in the direction perpendicular to X4, i.e., the radial direction of the rotating member C, by the functions of cam 101, and roller 105 described above. Therefore, cartridge B moves not only in the rotational direction X4 of rotating member C, but also in the radial direction to rotating member C, in the case where cartridge B moves to the angular position of force transmission rotational, from the angular position and pre-coupling, and in the case where it moves from the angular position of transmission of rotational force to the angular position of disengagement. The movement of cartridge B to the angular position of transmission of rotational force from the pre-coupling angular position, is the movement of cartridge B to the developing position DP (Figure 20) from the pre-developing retracted position 18Z ( Figure 23). The movement of cartridge B to the angular decoupling position from the angular position of transmitting rotational force of cartridge B to the retracted post-development position 18Y (Figure 22) from the DP position (Figure 20).

Here, the drive portion 150b of the coupling 150 moves along a locus provided by the combination of movement in one direction.

107 circumferential X4 of the rotating member C, and the movement in the radial direction of the rotating member C, perpendicular to it, similar to cartridge B. On the other hand, and the driven portion 150a of the coupling 150 moves along the motor axis 180 . Therefore, a locus of rotation of the coupling 150 differs from the pure interrelation between the driving portion 150b which is the turning fulcrum thereof, and the driven portion 150a which is the turning end. More particularly, the driving portion 150b, which is the turning fulcrum thereof, and the driven portion 150a which is the turning end, do not operate interrelatedly, at the locus of rotation (locus of movement) of the coupling 150. At this time, the portion 150j to be regulated, to regulate the direction of rotation of the coupling 150 is in the authorization portion 160b2. Therefore, the portion 150j to be regulated can move freely without interfering with the wall 160b3 thereof. In other words, coupling 150 can rotate substantially. More particularly, the configuration of the housing portion 160b is such that in the case where the coupling 150 is in a position other than the pre-coupling angular position, rotation is not avoided, and only in the case where the coupling 150 is in the pre-coupling angular position, the tilt direction of the coupling is regulated. This is why

108 minimizes the tension imparted to the portion 150j to be regulated.

In other words, in the case where the coupling 150 is in the pre-coupling angular position, the pre-coupling angular position is determined by the adjusting portion 150j and the positioning portion 160bl. By this the direction of inclination of the coupling 150 is determined. In the case where the coupling performs the coupling and uncoupling operations relative to the motor shaft 180, the portion 150j to be regulated is in the authorization portion 160b2, and the operation thereof is not regulated. In this way, the coupling 150 can rotate substantially in the case where the portion 150j to be regulated is positioned in the authorization portion 160b2. Therefore, coupling 150 can be coupled and decoupled relative to motor shaft 180, without imparting much stress to coupling 150.

As previously described in the text, the axis of rotation 10O of the rotating member C of the present embodiment may oscillate. Also in such a rotatable member C, the cartridge B of the present embodiment is secured in the coupling between the motor shaft 180 and the coupling 150. In addition, the decoupling between the motor shaft 180 and the coupling 150 is also ensured.

This is one of the notable effects of the present modality.

109

As previously described in the text, coupling 150 can rotate (oscillate) about the entire circumference thereof, substantially relative to axis X4. More particularly, coupling 150 can rotate

<td>substantially</td><td>in all</td><td colspan="2">relative directions</td><td>to the</td><td>axis</td>

<td>L4.</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td>

<td>Here, a</td><td>revolution</td><td>coupling</td><td>is</td><td>than</td><td>the</td>

<td>coupling in</td><td colspan="2">if it doesn't revolve around the</td><td>axis</td><td>L2</td><td>of the</td>

coupling, and the axis L2 which is tilted, rotates around the axis L4 (the state of rotation is shown in Figure 13F). However, this does not exclude the case in which the coupling itself rotates around the L2 axis, in the clearance range of a positively proportioned clearance.

Furthermore, it has been previously described in the text that the L2 axis can be tilted in all directions relative to the L1 axis. However, coupling 150 cannot necessarily be tilted linearly to the predetermined angle in either direction by 360 degrees.

Furthermore, as previously described in the text, the coupling can be moved substantially. More particularly, as for coupling, the assembly can rotate substantially in all directions. The coupling can rotate substantially, and therefore, when a user mounts cartridge B in main assembly A, the coupling can move (rotate) to the angular position of

110 transmission of rotational force regardless of the stopping phase of the motor shaft, which has the application portion of the rotational force.

Furthermore, when the user removes the cartridge from main assembly A, the coupling can move (rotate) to the disengaged angular position regardless of the suspension phase of the drive shaft.

Furthermore, the space is provided between the pin 155 (rotational force transmitting element), and the rotational force receiving surface 147h (rotational force transmitting portion) at coupling 150 (Figure (C) so such that it can tilt in substantially all directions relative to the L4 axis. In this way, the coupling is mounted on the longitudinal end portion of the cartridge B- Thus the coupling 150 can be tilted substantially in all directions relative to the axis L4.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described heretofore, the coupling operation between the motor shaft 180 and the coupling 150 is completed while the rotating member C rotates, or immediately after the rotating member c stops. And, development roller 110 is allowed to rotate.

More particularly, before the coupling 150 begins coupling with the motor shaft 180, the coupling

111

150 rotation begins simultaneously with engagement with the motor shaft 180. By this, the developing roller 110 begins rotation. Furthermore, in the case where the motor shaft 1809 is at rest, the coupling 150 is at rest, without turning even after the termination of the coupling between the coupling 150 and the motor shaft 180. Y When the motor shaft 180 begins rotation, the coupling 150 begins rotation. In addition, the developer roller 110 also begins rotation.

In any case, in accordance with this embodiment, it is not necessary to cause the member to transmit rotational force on the side of the main assembly (coupling on the side of the main assembly, for example) to advance, and retract in the axial direction thereof. Therefore, the time required for the imaging operation (development) can be shortened. In this embodiment, before the coupling operation with the coupling drive shaft 180 begins, the drive shaft 180 is rotated. Therefore, the imaging operation can be started promptly. Accordingly, compared to the case where the motor shaft 180 is at rest, the time required for image formation can be further shortened.

In this embodiment, in the state in which the motor shaft 180 rotates, the coupling 150 can be decoupled from the shaft 180

112 engine.

»

Therefore, in accordance with the present embodiment, the developing roller 110 may contact the photosensitive drum 107 while rotating the developing roller 110, even in the case where movement in the direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation thereof, the motor shaft 180. Furthermore, even in the case where the motor shaft 180 is attached to the main assembly in this way, the developer roller 110 may be decoupled from the photosensitive drum 107 while the developer roller 110 rotates. This is because the coupling 150 receives the drive of the motor shaft 180 within the predetermined angular range (the angular range in which the transmission of rotational force is possible) to both sides of the rotational force transmission angular position ( the angular position in which the developing roller 110 and the photosensitive drum 107 are in contact with each other). By this, the charge imparted to the photosensitive drum 107 can be reduced at the time of contact, and the separation of the developing roller 110.

In this embodiment, stopping the motor shaft 180 may not be performed in order to couple the coupling 150 with the motor shaft 180 or in order to disengage it from the motor shaft 180.

More particularly, in accordance with coupling 150 of the present invention, coupling with motor shaft 180

113 or decoupling of the motor shaft 180, is possible while the motor shaft 180 rotates.

This is one of the notable effects of the present modality.

In this embodiment, the rotating member C is operated through the next step. Rotating member C oscillates toward a photosensitive drum 107 in the radial direction thereof; a yellow imaging operation is performed; the rotating member C oscillates in the opposite direction of the photosensitive drum 107 in the radial direction; and the rotation of the developing roller 110 is stopped. The oscillation of the rotating member C towards the direction of the photosensitive drum 107 in the radial direction is the oscillation in the contact direction of the developing roller 110 with the photosensitive drum 107. Furthermore, the oscillation of the rotating member C in the opposite direction of the direction of the photosensitive drum 107 in the radial direction is the oscillation in the direction of separation of the developing roller 110 and the photosensitive drum 107. Simultaneously with the start of rotation of the rotating member C, the coupling 150 is decoupled from the motor shaft 180, and the developing operation is prepared for a second color.

In this mode, the operation is coupling and uncoupling of the coupling, relative to axis 180

114 The motors are operated interrelated with the rotation of the rotating member C 150. Therefore, the time required between developing for the first color and developing for the second color can be shortened. Similarly, a reduction can be achieved between developing for the second color, and developing for a third color, between developing for the third color and developing for a fourth color, between the initial position and the developing position for the first color, and between the development for the fourth color and the initial position. Therefore, the time required to produce a color image can be shortened.

This is one of the notable effects of the present modality.

The present embodiment can also be applied to the case where the rotating member C rotates in the opposite direction to the rotational direction X4.

In the case where the rotating member C rotates in the opposite direction to the rotational direction X4 in the state shown in Figure 20, coupling and decoupling between coupling 150, and motor shaft 180, are possible in the process where the Bl cartridge is moved from the DP development position (Figure 20) to the pre-development 18Z retracted position (Figure 23). More particularly, coupling 150 may be decoupled from motor shaft 180 by reverse rotation of rotary member C. In this case, coupling 150 is

115 it moves from an angular drive transmission position to the pre-engage angular position, in the process of disengaging from the motor shaft 180. By subsequently rotating rotary member C in the direction of rotational direction X4, coupling 150 engages with motor shaft 180.

(10) Coupling Operation, Rotational Force Transmission Operation, and Coupling Decoupling Operation

As described above, coupling 150 engages motor shaft 180 (from Figure 23 to Figure 20) immediately before cartridge B stops at the predetermined position of main assembly A or substantially simultaneously with stopping in the predetermined position. After rotation of the coupling 150 for a predetermined time, the coupling 150 disengages from the motor shaft 180 (from Figure 20 to Figure 22) when the

<td>cartridge B se</td><td>moves from</td><td>the</td><td>default position in</td><td>the</td>

<td colspan="2">main set A.</td><td></td><td></td><td></td>

<td>Doing</td><td>reference</td><td>to</td><td>Figures 24-28, will be done</td><td>the</td>

<td>description in</td><td>as to</td><td>the</td><td>coupling operation</td><td>of the</td>

coupling with the motor shaft 180, the rotational force transmission operation, and the decoupling operation.

Figure 24 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view illustrating the motor shaft 180, the coupling 150, and the gear

116

147. Figure 25 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view illustrating a phase difference between the motor shaft 180, the coupling 150, and the gear 147. Figure 27 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view illustrating the motor shaft 180, the coupling 150, and the gear 147. Item (a) of Figure 28 is a front view of the coupling 150, the developing roller 110, and a RS roller 115 in the case where the coupling 150 is in the pre-coupling angular position, when viewed from the motor shaft side (180). Item (b) of Figure 28 is a front view of coupling 150, cartridge B, and rotating member C, in the case where coupling 150 is in the pre-coupling angular position, when viewed from the side of the motor shaft (180).

In the process where the cartridge B is moved to the developing position DP by the rotation of the rotating member C, the coupling 150 is in the angular pre-coupling position. More particularly, coupling 150 is tilted by spring 159 (push member, and elastic member), such that driven portion 150a is positioned on the downstream side with respect to rotational direction X4, relative to the axis L4, from gear 147. More particularly, in the pre-coupling angular position, the driven portion 150a is positioned on the downstream side with respect to the rotational direction X4

117 of the drive portion 150b. In this embodiment, in the case where coupling 150 is in the pre-coupling angular position, axis L2 of coupling 150 is positioned between line L5 and line L6 when viewed from the motor shaft side (180), (Figure 28 (a)). Here, line L5 is a line through the center (axis L4) of gear 147, and the center of developer roller 110 (axis Ll). Line L6 is a line through the center of gear 147, and the center of supply roll 115. Therefore, the axis L2 is positioned between the developer roller 110, and the roller. Developer supply 115 ((a) of Figure 28). And, the axis L2 is on the downstream side with respect to the rotational direction X4 of the rotating member C in relation to a tangent line L5 of a circle C3 which is concentric with the rotating member C, and which passes through the center of the driving portion 150b, and faces outward with respect to the radial direction of the rotating member C (Figure 28 (b)). By an inclination of the coupling 150, the position 150A1 of the downstream free end, with respect to the rotational direction X4, of the rotating member C, is closer than the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft to the gear 147 in the direction of the L4 axis. Furthermore, the position 150A2 of the free end upstream with respect to the X4 direction is closer than the free end 180b3 of the motor shaft to the pin 182, in the direction of the Ll axis, ((a) and (b) of Figure 24 ).

118

Here, the position of the free end is the most remote from the L2 axis on the side closest to the motor axis, with respect to the direction of the L2 axis in the driven portion 150a, shown in part (a), and Figure 7C. In other words it is either a marginal line of the driven portion 150a or a marginal line of the driven projection 15Od (in Figure 7A and Figure 7C, 150A) depending on the rotational phase of the coupling 150.

First, in the rotational direction (X4) of rotary member C, position 150A1 of the downstream free end passes through one end 180b3 of a shaft. And, after coupling 150 passes through motor shaft 180, the tapered receiving surface 150f of projection 150d of coupling 150 contacts the free end portion 180 of pin 182 of motor shaft 180.

In response to the rotation of the rotating member C, it tilts (Figure 24 (c)) such that the L2 axis is parallel to the L4 axis. Here, the rotating member C stops the rotation temporarily, in the state of Figure 24 (c). At this time, the coupling 150 is between the pre-coupling angular position and the drive transmission angular position. And, coupling 150 is in the angular position where rotational force can be transmitted if the two projections 150d and the pins 182 are in contact. When the rotating member C is in

119 At rest, motor shaft 180 rotates, and the gap between pin 182 which is positioned in access portion 150k and projection 150d, is reduced. Depending on the difference in rotational phase between coupling 150, and motor shaft 180, transmission of rotational force to coupling 150 from motor shaft 180 is initiated during temporary stop. And, the transmission of the rotational force from the motor shaft 180 to the coupling 150 is started upon reaching the stop position (Figure 24 (c)) of the rotating member C, as will be described below.

And finally, the position of the cartridge B is determined relative to the main assembly A. In other words, the rotating member C stops the rotation. At this time, the drive shaft 180 and gear 147 are substantially coaxial with each other. More particularly, coupling 150 is pivotally, oscillating, and rotatable from the pre-coupling angular position to the rotational force transmission angular position to allow free end position 150A1 to bypass motor shaft 180. And, the coupling 150 tilts toward the angular position of transmitting rotational force from the pre-coupling angular position, where axis L2 is substantially coaxial with axis L1. And, Coupling 150 and motor shaft 180 couple with each other (Figure 24 (c)). In other words, a part of the driven portion 150a moves to a position

120 behind the motor shaft 180 when viewed along the direction of movement. More particularly, cavity 150z covers free end portion 180b. Therefore, the stabilized rotational force is transmitted from the motor shaft 180 to the coupling 150. At this time, the pin 155 is positioned in an opening 147g. Pin 182 is positioned in access portion 150k.

In this embodiment, the motor shaft 180 is already rotating at the time when coupling 150 initiates coupling relative to motor shaft 180. For this reason, coupling 150 begins rotation immediately.

As described above, in accordance with this embodiment, coupling 150 can be tilted relative to axis L4. In the case where the portion 150j to be regulated is positioned in the authorization portion 160b2, the coupling 150 rotates substantially relative to the axis L4. Therefore, according to the rotation of the rotating member C, the coupling 150 can be coupled relative to the motor shaft 180 without interfering with the motor shaft 180, by the inclination of the coupling 150 itself.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described hereinabove, the motor shaft 180 always rotates. For this reason, at the time of a coupling operation, the rotational phase of the motor shaft 180 is always changing, and the phase relationship between the motor shaft 180 and the coupling 150

121 it is not constant. Even in such a case, the coupling operation of the coupling 150 described above is possible regardless of the phase difference between the motor shaft 180 and the coupling 150. Referring to Figure 25, the description will be made as to this coupling. Figure 25 is a view illustrating the phases of coupling 150 and motor shaft 180. Item (a) of Figure 25 is a view in the state where the pin 182, and the surface 150f receiving the drive shaft opposes each other on the side. upstream with respect to the rotational direction X4, of the rotating member C. The pin 182 and the projection 150d of the coupling 150 look at each other in part (b) of Figure 25. Item (c) of Figure 25 is a view in the state where the free end portion 180b of the drive shaft and the projection 150d of the coupling 150 oppose each other. Item (c) of Figure 25 is a view in the state where the free end portion 180b and the receiving surface 150f are opposed. As shown in Figure 10A1-A5, 10B1-B5, coupling 150 can be tilted in all directions relative to gear 147. More particularly, coupling 150 can rotate substantially. As shown in Figure 25, for this reason, coupling 150 can tilt in an X4 mounting direction regardless of the gear phase 147 relative to the X4 rotational direction. Regardless of the phases

122 of the motor shaft 180, and the coupling 150, the downstream free end position 150A1 with respect to the rotational direction X4 of the rotating member C is closer than the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft to a cartridge B, and this is the current side below with respect to the rotational direction X4, of the rotating member C. The position 150A2 of the free end with respect to the rotational direction X4 is closer than the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft to the pin 182, in establishing the angle of inclination of the coupling 150. With such a configuration, in response to a rotation operation of the Rotating member C, position 150A1 of the free end downstream with respect to the direction of rotation X4, passes through the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft. And, in the case of subsection (a) of Figure 25, the drive shaft receiving surface 150f contacts pin 182. In the case shown in subsection (b) of Figure 25, the projection 150d contacts pin 182. In the case shown in subsection (c) of Figure 25, projection 150d contacts portion 180b of the free end. In the case shown in subsection (c) of Figure 25, the receiving surface 150f is brought into contact with the free end portion 180b. By a contact force (pushing force) produced when the rotating member C rotates, the axis L2 approaches the position in parallel with the axis L4, and these couple with each other. Therefore, these

123 they remain to be coupled, regardless of the phase difference between the motor shaft 180 and the coupling 150 or the phase difference between the coupling 150 and the gear 147.

Referring to Figure 26, the operation of transmitting rotational force at the time of development roller 110 will be described.

The motor shaft 180 is rotated by the rotational force received from the motor (not shown) with gear 181 (helical gear), in direction X8 of the Figure. And the pin 182 integrated with the motor shaft 180 is brought into contact with the rotational force receiving surface 150el to rotate the coupling 150. As described hereinabove, the coupling 150 can transmit the rotational force to the roller 110 of developed through gear 147. For this reason, by rotation of the coupling 150, the rotational force is transmitted to the gear 145 mounted on a shaft 110b of the development roller 110 through the gear 147. Thus, the development roller 110 is rotated.

Since the coupling 150 tilts slightly, the coupling can be rotated without applying much force to the developer roller 110 or the motor shaft 180.

This is one of the notable effects of the modality.

Referring to Figure 27, the description will be made regarding the operation of the motor shaft 180 of the

124 coupling 150 according to the movement of the predetermined position (developing position DP) of the cartridge B by the unidirectional rotation of the rotating member C.

The position of the rotational force transmission pin at the time of movement of cartridge B from the predetermined position will first be described. When the imaging is complete, as will be apparent from the above description, the pins 182 are positioned in the access portions 150kl, 150k2. And, pins 155 are positioned in opening 150gl or 150g2.

The decoupling operation of the coupling 150 and the motor shaft 180 will be described in interrelation with the operation (Figure 20-Figure 22) to switch to the next developer cartridge B, after the cartridge B completes an imaging operation.

In the state in which the imaging operation has ended, the coupling 150 is in the angular position of rotational force transmission where the axis L2, and the axis are substantially coaxial (subsection (a) of Figure 27 ). Gear 14 7 moves in the rotational direction X4 with cartridge B. The upstream receiving surface 150f or the projection 150d contacts the free end portion 180b of the motor shaft 180, or the pin 182 in the rotational direction X4. And, the L2 axis starts tilting towards the upstream side

125 with respect to the rotational direction X4, (Figure 27 (b)). At this time, the direction and tilt is opposite with respect to gear 147, to the direction of engagement with drive shaft 180. In other words, the tilt direction moves away from the pre-coupling angular position beyond the L4 axis. By the rotational operation of the rotating member C, the current-side free end portion 150A2 is moved with respect to the rotational direction X4 while contacting the free end portion 180b of the motor shaft 180. And the axis L2 is tilted to the decoupled angular position (Figure 27 (c)), such that the free end portion 15 0A2 on the upstream side reaches the free end 180b3. In this state, although it is in contact with the free end 180b3, the coupling 150 passes through the free end 180b3 (Figure 27 (c)). More particularly, coupling 150 moves from the angular position of transmitting rotational force to the disengaging angular position, such that a part of coupling 150 (the upstream free end position 150A2) which is on the side upstream of motor shaft 180 with respect to rotational direction X4, bypasses motor shaft 180. In other words, a part of the portion 150a driven behind the motor shaft 180 when viewed in the direction opposite to the rotational direction X4, retracts behind the motor shaft 180, and is

126 moves downstream side of motor shaft 180 in rotational direction X4. Thereafter, the cartridge B moves according to the rotation of the rotating member C such that the state becomes as shown in Figure 22.

Furthermore, at the time that the rotating member C makes one complete turn, the coupling 150 is tilted by the push member 159 described above, such that the shaft L2 thereof tilts towards the downstream side with respect to the direction rotational X4. In other words, coupling 150 moves from the decoupling angular position to the pre-coupling angular position. By doing so by securing it, after the rotating member C makes one complete turn, the coupling 150 can be coupled to the motor shaft 180.

As will be apparent from the above description, the angle at the pre-coupling angular position of the coupling 150, relative to the axis L4 is greater than the angle at the decoupling angular position this is because the decoupling angular position is established in advance, so that at the time of coupling of the coupling, the distance between position 150A1 of the upstream free end, and of the free end portion 180b3 of the drive shaft is relatively large with respect to the rotational direction X4 ((b) of Figure 24). For this, the dimensional tolerances of the

127 components. On the contrary, at the moment of disengagement of the coupling, the axis L2 inclines in interrelation with the rotation of the rotating member C in the angular position of disengagement. For this reason, the free end portion 180b3 of the drive shaft is substantially the same as the downstream free end position 150A2 with respect to the rotational direction X4, in the direction of the axis L1 (subsection (c) of Figure 27). .

Also, when coupling 150 is decoupled from motor shaft 180, coupling 150 may be decoupled from motor shaft 180, regardless of the phase difference between coupling 150 and pin 182.

The angular position of transmission of the rotational force of the coupling 150 is such an angular position of the coupling 150 relative to the gear axis L4 in which the cartridge B is in the predetermined position, and can be rotated by the coupling 150 receiving the rotational force. shaft 180 motor. Here, the default position is the position (developing position DP) which is opposed to the photosensitive drum. More particularly, the angular position of transmission of rotational force is such an angular position relative to axis L4 that coupling 150 can be rotated upon receiving rotational force from motor shaft 180. The angular pre-coupling position of the coupling 150 is such an angular position of the coupling 150 relative to the axis

128

L4 in that immediately before the coupling 150 engages with the motor shaft 180 in the process that the cartridge B moves to the predetermined position, in accordance with the rotation of the rotating member C. More particularly, the pre-coupling angular position it is an angular position relative to the X4 axis immediately before the coupling 150 engages with the motor axis 180. The angular disengagement position of the coupling 150 is such an angular position of the coupling 150 relative to the axis L4 in that, when the coupling 150 is disengaged from the motor shaft 180 in the process that the cartridge B moves from the predetermined position in response to the rotation of the rotating member C. More particularly, the decoupling angular position is an angular position relative to the axis L4 in the event that the coupling 150 is decoupled from the motor axis 180.

In the angular coupling position, and the angular decoupling position, the angles β2, β3 (Figure 24, Figure 27) between the L2 axis and the L4 axis, are greater than the angle between the L2 axis and the L1 axis βΐ in the angular position of transmission of rotational force. The angle βΐ is preferably 0 degrees. Angles β2 and β3 are preferably 20 degrees-60 degrees. The angular range in which the transmission of the rotational force described above is possible is approximately 20 -40 degrees.

129 degrees to both sides of the angular position of transmission of rotational force.

In this embodiment, the angular pre-coupling position is between the axis of rotation of the developing roller 110, and the axis of rotation of the supply roller 115. More particularly, in this embodiment, the tilt direction of the coupling 150 which is in the pre-coupling angular position is between the axis of rotation of the developing roller 110 and the axis of rotation of the supply roller 115.

Thus, in accordance with this embodiment, coupling 150 can be securely coupled to motor shaft 180 also on the rotary member having the oscillating rotary axis of 10Ü.

In accordance with the embodiment described above, the motor shaft 180 and coupling 150 engage and disengage from each other in cartridge B mounted on rotary member C by moving in the direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of axis L3 by rotation of the member Swivel C. Cartridge B mounts in housing portion 13 0a provided on swivel member C.

Substantial perpendicularity will be described here.

A small space is provided between cartridge B and rotating member C in order to gently mount and demount cartridge B. More specifically, the

130 A small gap is provided, for example, between guide 60b and guide C2, and between guide 61b and guide C2 with respect to the longitudinal direction. Therefore, when cartridge B is mounted on rotating member C, the entire cartridge B may be tilted slightly within the limits of the gaps. Also, when the rotating member C rotates, a small positive deviation may occur. Therefore, coupling and decoupling between motor shaft 180 and coupling 150 may not be accomplished by movement of cartridge B in the strictly orthogonal direction. However, even in such a case, the present invention functions properly as described hereinabove. Therefore, also in the case where the cartridge B is slightly inclined, the state is substantially perpendicular.

(12) Coupling operation of the coupling and transmission of rotational force

As described above, the coupling 150 of the cartridge B is brought into engagement with the motor shaft 180 immediately before positioning it in the predetermined position of the main assembly A or substantially simultaneously with the positioning in the predetermined position. More particularly, coupling 150 is in the angular position of transmission of rotational force. Here, in the state where cartridge B is

131 Positions in the predetermined position, coupling 150 engages with motor shaft 180.

As described hereinabove, when the rotating member C rotates, the coupling 150 contacts the motor shaft 18 0 in response to the movement of the cartridge B. Therefore, the portion 150j to be regulated is moved to the portion 160b2 from the regulating portion 160bl, in other words, the coupling 150 is moved to the angular position of transmitting rotational force from the angular position and pre-coupling. And in the case where the coupling 150 is in the angular position of transmission of the rotational force, the coupling 150 transmits to the developing roller 110 the rotational force received from the motor shaft 180. Hence, the developer roller 110 rotates.

When the rotary member C rotates further, the coupling 150 moves from the rotational force transmission angular position to the disengaging angular position according to the movement of the cartridge B. Thus, the coupling 150 disengages from the motor shaft 180 .

As described hereinabove, coupling 150 is mounted for tilting motion relative to gear axis L4, and tilts, without interfering with drive shaft 180, in response to the rotational operation of rotating member C. By this, coupling 150 can be

132 decoupled from the motor shaft 180.

Another embodiment will be described.

Referring to Figure 29 and Figure 30, another embodiment will be described.

In this embodiment, another mounting structure of the elastic material 159 (push member) will be described. According to this embodiment, the coupling 150 can be additionally safely tilted in the direction of the pre-coupling angular position.

Item (a) of Figure 29 and item (b) of Figure 29 are perspective views illustrating the state of mounting of the elastic material 159 (push member) to the support member 157. Item (a) of Figure 3 0 is a perspective view of a drive portion of the cartridge. Item (b) of Figure 30 illustrates the example of support member 157 which has another configuration. Furthermore, in the examples shown in subsection (a) of Figure 29, subsection (b) of Figure 29, and subsection (a) of Figure 30, the lateral surface 157i of support member 157 is provided with a 157n projection in addition to the structure of the modality described above. In addition, the 157n projection is provided with a 158nl cavity consisting of a 157n2 surface, a 157n3 surface, a 157n4 surface, and a 157n5 surface (four surfaces). And, the 159th portion of the free end (the other end) of the

133 contact portion 159a of spring 159 is housed in cavity 157nl, and is restricted in its movement towards axis L4 by surface 157n2 and surface 158n4. More particularly, portion 159al of the free end (the other end) enters cavity 157nl, and can be moved along cavity 157nl. The free end portion 159al is movably in engagement with cavity 157nl. Furthermore, the lateral surface 157i of the support member 157 is provided with a 157o projection. In the case where the coupling 150 is in the pre-coupling angular position, the driven portion 150a of the coupling 150 contacts the projection 157o. With this, the position of the angle of inclination of the coupling 150 is determined. Here, the configuration of the cavity 157nl is as follows. More particularly, cavity 157nl extends along the locus of a portion 159al of the free end when contact portion 159a moves in the direction perpendicular to axis L4, with movement between the pre-engagement angular position and the coupling decoupling angular position 150.

The cavity 157nl does not prevent movement of the free end portion 159al in the direction perpendicular to the L4 axis. However, movement of the free end portion 159al in the direction of the L4 axis is restricted by surface 157n2 and surface 157n4.

When coupling 150 is in the angular position

134 pre-coupling, and spring 159 elastically pushes coupling 150 through contact portion 159a, contact portion 159a receives a reaction force F that includes a force F1 in the direction of axis L4 from coupling 150. The subsection (a) in Figure 30 shows this state. However, the free end portion 150al is restricted in movement in the direction of the axis L4, by the surface 157n4 of the cavity 157nl. Because of this, the contact portion 159a does not tilt in the direction of the axis L4 by the force F1. Similarly, in the case where the coupling 150 is in an angular position other than the pre-coupling angular position, even if the contact portion 159a receives the force in the direction of the L4 axis, the inclination of the contact portion 159a in axis direction L4 can be avoided by surface 157n2 of cavity 157nl or surface 157n4.

By the structure described above, when the coupling 150 takes various angular positions, the contact portion 159a receives the force in the direction of the axis L4. However, the free end portion 19al is regulated in movement in the direction of the L4 axis by surfaces 158n2 and 157n4 of cavity 157nl. By this, tilting of the contact portion 159a in the direction of the axis L4 can be avoided. Therefore, the contact portion 159a can be safely contacted with the portion 150c

135 intermediate of coupling 150. Therefore, spring 159 can be elastically pushed, securely into the pre-coupling angular position (the first angular position) in coupling 150.

As described hereinabove, the coil component (end) 159b at the end of the spring 159 (elastic material) is fixed in the mounting portion 158el. More particularly, the coil component (end) 159b is attached to the support member 157. This is because the mounting portion 158el is securely attached with the support member 157. The free end portion 159al (the other end) of spring 159 movably engages cavity 157nl to restrict movement in the axial direction of motor shaft 180. More particularly, the other end 159al movably engages the cavity 157nl provided in the support member 157.

The configurations of projection 157n and cavity 158nl are not limited to those described above if surface 157n2 and surface 157n4 satisfy the functions described above. For example, the configuration shown in subsection (b) of Figure 30 may be employed. More particularly, in the embodiment shown in subsection (b) of Figure 30, the projection 157n and cavity 157nl configurations are linear. .

In the examples shown in Figure 29 and Figure

136

30, cavity 157nl is a hole that penetrates in the direction that crosses the longitudinal direction of coupling 150, which is in the angular position of transmission of rotational force. In this embodiment, cavity 157nl is a through hole, and thus resin molding is easy. However, this is not limited to the through hole, but a suitable cavity drilled in the direction intersecting the direction can be used. Therefore, the cavity includes a through hole, a slot, and successively securing it. Here, the longitudinal direction of the coupling 150 is the direction toward the free end of the projection 150d from the free end of the portion 150j to be regulated. In this embodiment, the through hole like cavity 157nl extends in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the coupling 150 which is in the angular position of transmission of rotational force. Therefore, the effects described above are additionally provided in a safe manner. However, the present invention is not limited to this.

In this embodiment, the structure shown in Figure 29 is made of a resinous material except for spring 159.

The longitudinal direction of the coupling 150 which is in the angular position of transmission of the rotational force is the same as the longitudinal direction of the

137 developer cartridge (developer roller 110).

In accordance with the embodiment shown in Figure 29 and Figure 30, the coupling 150 can be safely tilted towards the pre-coupling angular position.

As described hereinabove, the modalities described are as follows.

Even in the structure in which the cartridge B moves in the direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of the axis L3 of the motor axis 180, the coupling 150 can be coupled with the motor axis 180, and can be decoupled from the motor axis 180. Furthermore, the cartridge B moves in the direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of the axis L3 of the motor axis 180, according to the rotation of the rotating member C. This is because, as described above, the coupling 150 can take the angular position of transmission of rotational force (first angular position), the angular position of pre-coupling (second angular position), and the angular position of decoupling ( third angular position). The angular position for transmitting rotational force is the angular position for transmitting rotational force from main assembly A to developer roller 110. The pre-coupling angular position is the angular position inclined from the rotational force transmission angular position before coupling 150 engages with motor shaft 180. The angular position of

138 Transmission of rotational force to the pre-coupling angular position from the decoupling angular position is the angular position tilted to the opposite side in order to disengage the coupling 150 from the motor shaft 180.

As described hereinabove, the angular position of transmission of rotational force (the first angular position) is the angular position of coupling 150 to transmit rotational force to rotate developer roller 110 to developer roller 110.

The pre-coupling angular position (second angular position) is the angular position of the coupling 150 inclined from the rotational force transmission angular position before the coupling 150 engages the drive shaft.

In addition, the decoupling angular position (third angular position) is the angular position of the coupling 150 tilted to the opposite side from the pre-coupling angular position from the rotational force transmission angular position in order to decouple the coupling 150 shaft 180 motor.

In accordance with the embodiment described above, a developing device (developing cartridge) is provided which can be used even with the main assembly which is not provided with the mechanism to move the coupling member on the side of the main assembly in the direction

139 axial thereof, by means of solenoids or the like: More particularly, by moving the developing device (developing cartridge) in the direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of the drive shaft, the coupling member 5 provided in the developing device (developer cartridge) can be attached to the motor shaft. And, a rotational force transmission component is provided for the developing device (developing cartridge). In addition, an electrophotographic imaging apparatus 10 is provided that can be used with the developing device (developing cartridge).

In accordance with the embodiment described above, a developing device (developing cartridge) can be provided which can be coupled with the drive shaft in the direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of the drive shaft provided in the main assembly of the apparatus of Y electrophotographic imaging, A rotational force transmitting article can be provided that can be used for developing device 20 (developing cartridge). In addition, an electrophotographic imaging apparatus can be provided that can be used with the developing device (developing cartridge).

In accordance with the embodiment described above, a developing device (cartridge of

140 developer), where the developer roller can be rotated smoothly compared to the case where the operational connection between the main assembly and the developer device (developer cartridge) is made by gear to gear. And, a rotational force transmitting article can be provided that can be used with the developing device (developing cartridge). Furthermore, an electrophotographic imaging apparatus can be provided that can be used with the developing device (developing cartridge).

In accordance with the embodiment described above, a developing device (developing cartridge) can be provided, where it can be coupled with the drive shaft in the direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of the arrow axis or drive shaft provided in the main assembly, and the developer roller can be rotated smoothly. And, a rotational force transmission component can be provided that can be used with the developing device (developing cartridge). Furthermore, an electrophotographic imaging apparatus can be provided that can be used with the developing device (developing cartridge).

In accordance with the embodiment described above, a developing device (developing cartridge) can be provided which can be coupled and uncoupled in the

141 direction substantially perpendicular to axial direction relative to the motor axis provided in the main assembly of the electrophotographic imaging apparatus by movement (rotation) of the movable member (rotating member). And, a rotational force transmission component can be provided that can be used with the developing device (developing cartridge). Furthermore, an electrophotographic imaging apparatus can be provided that can be used with the developing device (developing cartridge).

In accordance with the embodiment described above, a developing device (developing cartridge) can be provided which can be coupled and uncoupled in the direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of the axis of the drive shaft or arrow relative to the drive shaft on the drive side. device, by the movement (rotation) of the movable member (rotating member), and which can smoothly rotate the development roller. A rotational force transmission component can be provided that can be used for the developing device (developing cartridge). In addition, an electrophotographic imaging apparatus can be provided that can be used with the developing device (developing cartridge).

In accordance with the previously described embodiment, a developing device (cartridge of

142 developer) which can be used with the movable member (rotary developer member) which has the axis of rotation which oscillates, where the developer device (developer cartridge) moves in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the motor shaft in response to rotation of the movable member (rotary developer member). More particularly, in accordance with the embodiment described above, even in the case described above, the developing device (developing cartridge) is securely engaged and disengaged relative to the drive shaft on the main assembly side, and the developed gently rotates. And, a rotational force transmission component can be provided that can be used with the developing device (developing cartridge). Furthermore, an electrophotographic imaging apparatus can be provided that can be used with the developing device (developing cartridge).

As described hereinabove, according to the embodiment described above, the coupling member can take the state in which it can substantially turn, and furthermore the state of regulation of the inclination direction of the coupling member is in the default. Thus, in accordance with the embodiment described above, the state in which the coupling member remains stable in the

143 Pre-coupling angular position. As described hereinabove, according to the regulating member 160 of the present embodiment, even before the developer cartridge is mounted on the rotatable member, the coupling member can be held in the pre-coupling angular position ( second angular position). More particularly, the coupling member can be held in the pre-coupling angular position (second angular position (even in the free state of the developer cartridge). Therefore, in the case of transporting the cartridge B, for example inadvertent movement of the coupling member can be avoided. The present invention can be applied to a developing device, a developing cartridge, a rotational force transmission component, and an electrophotographic imaging apparatus.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

In accordance with the present invention, it is possible to provide a developing device, a developing cartridge, and an electrophotographic imaging apparatus that can be used with the developing device or the developing cartridge, which are improved to avoid prior art problems.

Although the invention has been described with reference to the structures described herein, it is not confined to the

144 details set forth, and this application is intended to cover such modifications or changes when they are within the purposes of improvements within the scope of the following claims.