Process cartridge, electrophotographic image forming apparatus, and electrophotographic photosensitive drum unit
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Projected expiry 25 December 2027, counted from filing; an application has no term until it is granted.
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- 1Zastrzeżenia patentowe 1, Zespół elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego (B), przystosowanego do zastosowania z głównym zespołem urządzenia do tworzenia obrazu elektrofotograficznego, przy czym główny zespół zawiera wał napędowy (180), przeznaczony do napędzania przez silnik, mający część wywierającą siłę obrotową przy czym ten zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego może być wymontowywany z głównego zespołu, w kierunku demontażu, w zasadzie prostopadłym do kierunku osiowego (L3) wału napędowego, przy czym wspomniany zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego zawiera:i) elektrofotograficzny bęben światłoczuły (107) zaopatrzony w warstwę światłoczułą (1076) na jego powierzchni zewnętrznej, przy czym wspomniany elektrofotograficzny bęben światłoczuły może obracać się wokół swojej osi (L1);ii) człon sprzęgający (150) obrotowy wokół swojej osi (L2), umożliwiający sprzęganie z wałem napędowym (180) dla przejmowania siły obrotowej, od części wywierającej siłę obrotową, i obracania wspomnianego elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego (107), przy czym ten człon sprzęgający jest umieszczony na osiowym końcu wspomnianego elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego (107), tak że wspomniany człon sprzęgający (150) jest w stanie zajmować położenie kątowe przekazywania siły obrotowej zasadniczo współiiniowe z osią (L1) wspomnianego elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego (107) dla przekazywania siły obrotowej do obracania elektrofotograficznego bębna (107) światłoczułego, na ten elektrofotograficzny bęben światłoczuły (107), oraz przechodzić od położenia kątowego przekazywania siły obrotowej, w położenie kątowe rozłączania, w którym wspomniany człon sprzęgający (150) jest odchylony od osi (11) wspomnianego elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego (107, w celu odłączenia członu sprzęgającego (150) od wału napędowego (180);przy czym zespół (B) bębna elektrofotograficznego jest dostosowany tak, że gdy wspomniany zespół (B) bębna elektrofotograficznego jest demontowany z zespołu głównego, w kierunku demontażu w zasadzie prostopadłym do osi (L1) wspomnianego elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego (107), wspomniany człon sprzęgający (150) przemieszcza się od wspomnianego położenia kątowego przekazywania siły obrotowej do wspomnianego położenia kątowego rozłączenia, 2. Zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego według zastrz. 1, przy czym wspomniany człon sprzęgający jest odłączalny od wału napędowego przez przemieszczenie od wspomnianego położenia kątowego przekazywania siły obrotowej do wspomnianego położenia kątowego rozłączenia. 3. Zespól bębna elektrofotograficznego według zastrz. 1 afbo 2, przy czym wspomniany zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego jest dostosowany tak, że w stanie, w którym człon sprzęgający znajduje się we wspomnianym położeniu kątowym rozłączenia, oś (L2) wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego jest nachylona ku kierunkowi przeciwnemu do kierunku demontażu, 4. Zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego według dowolnego z zastrz. od 1 do 3, przy czym wspomniany zespół bębna ełektrofotograficznego jest dostosowany tak, że w stanie, w którym wspomniany zespół bębna ełektrofotograficznego jest montowany w zespole głównym, część wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego, widziana w kierunku przeciwnym do kierunku demontażu, znajduje się za wałem napędowym, przy czym, kiedy wspomniany bęben elektrofotograficzny jest wymontowywany z głównego zespołu, wspomniany człon sprzęgający jest odłączany od wału napędowego przez przemieszczanie wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego od położenia kątowego przekazywania siły obrotowej do położenia kątowego rozłączenia, tak żeby umożliwić ominięcie wału napędowego przez część członu sprzęgającego. 5. Zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego według dowolnego z zastrz. od 1 do 4, przy czym wspomniany zespół bębna ełektrofotograficznego jest dostosowany tak, że kiedy wspomniany bęben elektrofotograficzny jest wymontowywany z głównego zespołu, wspomniany człon sprzęgający jest odłączany od wału napędowego przez przemieszczenie od wspomnianego położenia kątowego przekazywania siły obrotowej do wspomnianego położenia kątowego rozłączenia w reakcji na przemieszczanie się wspomnianego zespołu bębna w kierunku demontażu. 6. Zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego według dowolnego z zastrz. od 1 do 5, dodatkowo zawierający człon (151, 153, 155, 15151) przejmowania siły obrotowej, do przejmowania siły obrotowej, przy czym ten człon przejmowania siły obrotowej znajduje się na końcu elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego, przy czym człon sprzęgający jest sprzężony ze wspomnianym członem przejmowania siły obrotowej tak, że wspomniany człon sprzęgający może zajmować wspomniane położenie kątowe przekazywania siły obrotowej i wspomniane położenie kątowe rozłączenia. 7. Zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego według dowolnego z zastrz. od 1 do 6, dodatkowo zawierający element dociskowy (10634) do dociskania wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego w kierunku osi (L1) wspomnianego elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego, na zewnątrz od wspomnianego elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego. 8. Zespół bębna ełektrofotograficznego według zastrz. 7, przy czym wspomniany człon sprzęgający może być przemieszczany w stronę wspomnianego elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego przeciw sile docisku wspomnianego elementu dociskowego, kiedy wspomniany człon sprzęgający przemieszcza się od wspomnianego położenia kątowego przekazywania siły obrotowej do wspomnianego położenia kątowego rozłączenia. 9. Zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego według dowolnego z zastrz. od 1 do 8, przy czym wspomniany człon sprzęgający zawiera część przejmującą siię obrotową do zazębiania z częścią wywierającą siłę obrotową w celu przejmowania siły obrotowej z wału napędowego, i część przekazującą siłę obrotową do przekazywania siły obrotowej, przejmowanej przez wspomnianą część przejmującą siłę obrotową do wspomnianego elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego. 10. Zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego według zastrz. 9, przy czym wspomniany zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego jest dostosowany tak, że kiedy wspomniana część przejmująca siłę obrotową przejmuje siłę obrotową dla obracania wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego, część przejmująca siłę obrotową jest nachylona względem osi (L2 wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego, tak, że przejmuje siłę ku wałowi napędowemu. 11. Zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego według zastrz, 9 aibo 10, przy czym wspomniany człon sprzęgający zawiera część połączeniową między wspomnianą częścią przejmującą siłę obrotową a wspomnianą częścią przekazującą siłę obrotową. 12. Zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego według zastrz. 1, przy czym wspomniana część połączeniowa zawiera wał który jest ukształtowany wzdłuż osi (L2) wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego, 13. Zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego według dowolnego z zastrz. od 1 do 12, przy czym wspomniany człon sprzęgający ma wgłębienie, w które wchodzi oś (L2) wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego, przy czym wspomniane wgłębienie znajduje się nad wolnym końcem wspomnianego wału napędowego w stanie, w którym zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego jest montowany we wspomnianym zespole głównym. 14. Zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego według zastrz. 13, przy czym wspomniane wgłębienie ma część rozszerzającą się, która rozszerza się w stronę wolnego końca wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego. 15. Zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego według zastrz, 14, przy czym: wgłębienie (150z) jest wyznaczone przez powierzchnię stożkową iub wgłębienie (14150z) jest wyznaczone przez dwie powierzchnie (14150f1;14150f2) i rozszerza się w kierunku od osi członu sprzęgającego (L2);lub wgłębienie ma kształt rozbieżny, kształt dzwonowy, kształt cylindryczny lub kształt sferyczny, iub wgłębienie jest utworzone przez zbiór występów promieniowych (1235001, 12350d2;12350d3;12350d4) biegnących w kierunku wolnego końca wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego. 16. Zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego według dowolnego z zastrz. od 1 do 15, przy czym zbiór takich części przejmujących siłę obrotową jest rozmieszczony na wirtualnym okręgu o środku na osi (L2) wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego miejscach średnicowo przeciwległych. 17. Zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego według zastrz. 16, przy czym elementy należące do zbioru części przejmujących siłę obrotową są rozmieszczone w regularnych odstępach w kierunku obrotu wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego, przy czym w każdym z dwóch miejsc wzajemnie średnicowo przeciwległych w odniesieniu do osi (L3) wału napędowego znajduje się część wywierająca siłę obrotową 18. Zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego według dowolnego z zastrz. od 1 do 17, przy czym wspomniany zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego jest dostosowany tak, że wspomniany człon sprzęgający przy przejmowaniu siły z wału napędowego podczas demontażu wspomnianego zespołu bębna z zespołu głównego przemieszcza się od położenia kątowego przekazywania siły obrotowej do położenia kątowego rozłączenia. 19. Zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego według dowolnego z zastrz. od 1 do 17, dodatkowo zawierający inny element dociskowy (4159) naciskający na człon sprzęgający w kierunku od położenia kątowego przekazywania siły obrotowej do wspomnianego położenia kątowego rozłączenia. 20. Zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego według dowolnego z zastrz. od 1 do 17, przy czym wspomniany zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego jest dostosowany tak, że wspomniany człon sprzęgający przy wymontowywaniu w górę zespołu bębna z zespołu głównego przemieszcza się od wspomnianego położenia kątowego przekazywania siły obrotowej do wspomnianego położenia kątowego rozłączenia pod własnym ciężarem. 21. Zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego według dowolnego z zastrz. od 1 do 20, przy czym w stanie, w którym wspomniany człon połączeniowy znajduje się we wspomnianym położeniu kątowym przekazywania siły obrotowej, oś (L2) wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego jest w zasadzie współiiniowa z osią (L1) wspomnianego elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego. 22. Zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego według dowolnego z zastrz. od 1 do 21, przy czym kąt między osią (L2) wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego a osią (L1) wspomnianego zespołu bębna elektrofotograficznego wynosi od około 20° do około 60°, kiedy wspomniany człon sprzęgający jest we wspomnianym położeniu kątowym rozłączenia. 23. Zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego według dowolnego z zastrz. od 1 do 22, przy czym wspomniany człon sprzęgający znajduje się na końcu wspomnianego elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego i może przechylać się w stosunku do osi (L1) wspomnianego elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego w zasadzie we wszystkich kierunkach. 24. Zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego według dowolnego z zastrz. od 1 do 23, przy czym kierunek demontażu stanowi kombinację linii prostych lub jest krzywoliniowy. 25. Wkład procesowy zaopatrzony w zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego według dowolnego z zastrz. poprzednich i zawierający środki procesowe mogące działać na wspomnianym bębnie elektrofotograficznym, przy czym wspomniany wkład procesowy może być demontowany z zespołu głównego. 26. Wkład procesowy według zastrz. 25, przy czym wspomniany elektrofotograficzny bęben światłoczuły jest zaopatrzony w koło zębate na tej samej części końcowej, która zaopatrzona jest we wspomniany człon sprzęgający, przy czym wspomniane koło zębate służy do przekazywania siły obrotowej, przejmowanej z zespołu głównego przez wspomniany człon sprzęgający, do rolki wywołującej jako wspomnianego środka procesowego, przy czym wspomniane koło zębate i wspomniana część przekazująca siłę obrotową zachodzą na siebie wzajemnie w odniesieniu do kierunku osi (L1) wspomnianego elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego. 27. Wkład procesowy według zastrz. 26, przy czym wspomniane koło zębate stanowi koło zębate śrubowe. 28. Wkład procesowy według zastrz. 26, przy czym wspomniane Koło zębate stanowi koło zębate czołowe. 29. Elektrofotograficzne urządzenie do tworzenia obrazu zawierające: i) zespół główny, w skład którego wchodzi wał napędowy, przeznaczony do napędzania przez silnik, mający część wywierającą siłę obrotową i ii) elektrofotograficzny zespół bębna światłoczułego według zastrz. 1. 30. Urządzenie według zastrz 29, przy czym wspomniany człon sprzęgający może być odłączany od wału napędowego przez przemieszczenie od wspomnianego położenia kątowego przekazywania siły obrotowej do wspomnianego położenia kątowego rozłączenia 31. Urządzenie według zastrz. 29 albo 30, przy czym urządzenie jest dostosowane tak, że w stanie, w którym człon sprzęgający znajduje się we wspomnianym położeniu kątowym rozłączenia, oś (L2) wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego jest nachylona w kierunku przeciwnym do kierunku demontażu. 32. Urządzenie według zastrz. od 29 do 31, przy czym wspomniany zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego jest dostosowany tak, że w stanie, w którym wspomniany zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego jest montowany w zespole głównym, część wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego widziana w kierunku przeciwnym do kierunku demontażu znajduje się za wałem napędowym, przy czym, kiedy wspomniany bęben elektrofotograficzny jest wymontowywany z głównego zespołu, wspomniany człon sprzęgający jest odłączany od wału napędowego przez przemieszczanie się wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego od położenia kątowego przekazywania siły obrotowej do położenia kątowego rozłączenia, tak że umożliwia ominięcie wału napędowego przez część członu sprzęgającego. 33. Urządzenie według dowolnego z zastrz. od 29 do 32, przy czym urządzenie jest dostosowane tak, że kiedy wspomniany bęben elektrofotograficzny jest wymontowywany z głównego zespołu, wspomniany człon sprzęgający jest odłączany od wału napędowego przez przemieszczenie od wspomnianego położenia kątowego przekazywania siły obrotowej do wspomnianego położenia kątowego rozłączenia w reakcji na przemieszczanie się wspomnianego zespołu bębna w kierunku demontażu. 34. Urządzenie według dowolnego z zastrz. od 29 do 33, przy czym wspomniany zespół bębna zawiera człon (151, 153, 155, 15151) przejmowania siły obrotowej, do przejmowania siły obrotowej, przy czym wspomniany człon przejmowania siły obrotowej znajduje się na końcu wspomnianego elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego, przy czym wspomniany człon sprzęgający jest sprzężony ze wspomnianym członem przejmowania siły obrotowej tak, że wspomniany człon sprzęgający jest w stanie zajmować wspomniane położenie kątowe przekazywania siły obrotowej i wspomniane położenie kątowe rozłączenia. 35. Urządzenie według dowolnego z zastrz. od 29 do 34, przy czym wspomniany zespół bębna zawiera element dociskowy (10634), do dociskania wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego w kierunku osi (L1) wspomnianego elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego, na zewnątrz od wspomnianego elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego. 36. Urządzenie według zastrz. 35, przy czym urządzenie jest dostosowane tak, że wspomniany człon sprzęgający przemieszcza się do wspomnianego elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego przeciw sile docisku wspomnianego elementu dociskowego, kiedy wspomniany człon sprzęgający przemieszcza się od wspomnianego położenia kątowego przekazywania siły obrotowej do wspomnianego położenia kątowego rozłączenia. 37. Urządzenie według dowolnego z zastrz. od 29 do 36, przy czym wspomniany człon sprzęgający zawiera część przejmującą siłę obrotową do zazębiania z częścią wywierającą siłę obrotową w celu przejmowania siły obrotowej z wału napędowego, i część przekazującą siłę obrotową do przekazywania siły obrotowej, przejmowanej przez wspomnianą część przejmującą siłę obrotową do wspomnianego eiektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego. 38. Urządzenie według zastrz. 37, przy czym urządzenie jest dostosowane tak, źe kiedy wspomniana część przejmująca siłę obrotową przejmuje siłę obrotową w celu obracania wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego, wspomniana część przejmująca siłę obrotową jest nachylona względem osi (L2) wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego w celu przejmowania siły od strony wału napędowego. 39. Urządzenie według zastrz. 37 iub 38, przy czym wspomniany człon sprzęgający zawiera część połączeniową między wspomnianą częścią przejmującą siłę obrotową a wspomnianą częścią przekazującą siłę obrotową. 40. Urządzenie według zastrz. 39, przy czym wspomniana część połączeniowa zawiera wał który jest ukształtowany wzdłuż osi (L2) wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego. 41. Urządzenie według dowolnego z zastrz. od 29 do 40, przy czym wspomniany człon sprzęgający ma wgłębienie, w które wchodzi oś (L2) wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego, przy czym wspomniane wgłębienie znajduje się nad wolnym końcem wspomnianego wału napędowego w stanie, w którym zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego jest montowany we wspomnianym zespole głównym. 42. Urządzenie według zastrz. 41, przy czym wspomniane wgłębienie ma część rozszerzającą się, która rozszerza się w stronę wolnego końca wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego. 43. Urządzenie według zastrz. 42, przy czym: wgłębienie (150z) jest wyznaczone przez powierzchnię stożkową lub wgłębienie (14150z) jest wyznaczone przez dwie powierzchnie (14150f1;14150f2) i rozszerza się w kierunku od osi członu sprzęgającego (L2);lub wgłębienie ma kształt rozbieżny, kształt dzwonowy, kształt cylindryczny lub kształt sferyczny, lub wgłębienie to jest utworzone przez zbiór występów promieniowych (12350d1, 12350d2;12350d3;12350d4) biegnących w kierunku wolnego końca wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego, 44. Urządzenie według dowolnego z zastrz. od 29 do 43, przy czym zbiór takich części przejmujących siłę obrotową jest rozmieszczony na wirtualnym okręgu o środku na osi (L2) wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego, w miejscach w zasadzie wzajemnie średnicowo przeciwległych. 45. Urządzenie według zastrz. 44, przy czym elementy należące do zbioru części przejmujących siłę obrotową są rozmieszczone w regularnych odstępach w kierunku obrotu wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego, przy czym w każdym z dwóch miejsc wzajemnie średnicowo przeciwległych w odniesieniu do osi (L3) wału napędowego znajduje się część wywierająca siłę obrotową. 46. Urządzenie według dowolnego z zastrz. od 29 do 45, przy czym urządzenie jest dostosowany tak, że wspomniany człon sprzęgający przy przejmowaniu siły ze wspomnianego wału napędowego podczas demontażu wspomnianego zespołu bębna z zespołu głównego przemieszcza się od wspomnianego położenia kątowego przekazywania siły obrotowej do wspomnianego położenia kątowego rozłączenia. 47. Urządzenie według dowolnego z zastrz. od 29 do 45, przy czym wspomniany zespół bębna zawiera inny element dociskowy (4159) naciskający na wspomniany człon sprzęgający w kierunku od wspomnianego położenia kątowego przekazywania siły obrotowej do wspomnianego położenia kątowego rozłączenia. 48. Urządzenie według dowolnego z zastrz. od 29 do 45, przy czym urządzenie jest dostosowane tak, że wspomniany człon sprzęgający przy wymontowywaniu w górę zespołu bębna z zespołu głównego przemieszcza się od wspomnianego położenia kątowego przekazywania siły obrotowej do wspomnianego położenia kątowego rozłączenia pod własnym ciężarem. 49. Urządzenie według dowolnego z zastrz. od 29 do 48, przy czym urządzenie jest dostosowane tak, że w stanie, w którym wspomniany człon połączeniowy znajduje się we wspomnianym położeniu kątowym przekazywania siły obrotowej, oś (L2) wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego jest w zasadzie współiiniowa z osią (L1) wspomnianego elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego, 50. Urządzenie według dowolnego z zastrz. od 29 do 49, przy czym kąt między osią (L2) wspomnianego członu sprzęgającego a osią (L1) wspomnianego zespołu bębna elektrofotograficznego wynosi od około 20° do około 60°, kiedy wspomniany człon sprzęgający jest we wspomnianym położeniu kątowym rozłączenia. 51. Urządzenie według dowolnego z zastrz. od 29 do 50, przy czym wspomniany człon sprzęgający znajduje się na końcu wspomnianego elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego i może przechylać się w stosunku do osi (L1) wspomnianego elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego w zasadzie we wszystkich kierunkach. 52. Urządzenie według dowolnego z zastrz. od 29 do 51, przy czym urządzenie jest dostosowane tak, że kierunek demontażu stanowi kombinację linii prostych iub jest krzywoliniowy. 53. Urządzenie według dowolnego z zastrz. od 29 do 52, przy czym wspomniany zespół bębna elektrofotograficznego zawiera środki procesowe mogące działać na wspomnianym bębnie elektrofotograficznym stanowiąc wkład procesowy. 54. Urządzenie według zastrz. 53, przy czym wspomniany elektrofotograficzny bęben światłoczuły jest zaopatrzony w koło zębate na tej samej części końcowej, która zaopatrzona jest we wspomniany człon sprzęgający, przy czym wspomniane koło zębate służy do przekazywania siły obrotowej, przejmowanej z zespołu głównego przez wspomniany człon sprzęgający, do rolki wywołującej jako wspomnianego środka procesowego, przy czym wspomniane koło zębate i wspomniana część przekazująca siłę obrotową zachodzą na siebie wzajemnie w odniesieniu do osi (L1) wspomnianego elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego. 55. Urządzenie według zastrz. 54, przy czym wspomniane koło zębate stanowi koło zębate śrubowe. 56. Urządzenie według zastrz. 54, przy czym wspomniane koło zębate stanowi koło zębate czołowe. Y8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 Β1 FIG.1 $0 V8032PLO0/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 co ó u. V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 103a FIG.4 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.5 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.6 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.7 V8032PL0O/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (a) 150d1150A ΙδΟΑχ^δθ^ ' 1l50e1 150e2\\ 150A 150d2150A— 150R3150H 150e3 150X15003, 150A 150k4 __X1 ( fl -"S3, 7 , ^ 5 150d1 ' 150/ 150e2 150b *" M50m 150d2 0\.. n 150R3 150d4 150 150e3 150e4 1.50R1 150A 'l50a -1502 150d4 150e4 °150fU50 150k4 150d3 \X 150bFIG.8 150a V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (b) 157f 157g2_ M57 157a(140R1) FIG.9 Y8032PL0O/MB EP 2 087 407 Β1 FIG.10 V8032PL00/MB EP2 087 407 S1 FIG.12 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.13 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.14 V8032PL0O/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (a3) 150d1 (a1) 150z b1) 15Li50ki 150d4 02) 153150d2 150e2. i50z LAL—150e3 -150 150g "i50e4 155 (b2) i50c Λ A 155 ,.150a (b3) 150b15Qc __-150d ‘ ' ,..L2 150d 150g FIG.15 V8Ο32PLOO/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.16 Y8O32PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 U FIG.17 Y8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 BI A FIG.18 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 109 109a 130a FIG.19 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.21 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 S1 FIG.22 V8032PLOO/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (b) (C) (d) FIG.23 Y8032PL00/MB ΕΡ 2 087 407 Β1 107-. FIG.24 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (C) FIG.25 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (e) 1453c l 1453b1453cx 1457a 1457 14?3 FIG.26 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (c) ia) 1350 1453b" 1457a -150 FIG.27 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 ,1380a 138Qc FIG.28 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.29 V8032PL0O/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.30 V8032PL0O/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (a) FIG.31 2 08? 40? V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 L2 L1 (C) L1 (d) FIG.33 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (C) (Φ L1 FIG.34 V8032PLOO/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.35 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (b) (a) 14150 14150g2 14150M 14150d2 14150e2 i 44150g1 L-USOd, 14150 fd) 14150f2 14150H \ 14150d1 tr 14150 14150e1 14150d2 W i 14150e1 14150k (c) 14150d2 \ 14150f2 1415Qm (e) 14150χ 14150g1 14150Ϊ1 L f,T! —A— 14150v 141502 14150(1/ 14150d1 14150a' T " /V " 1415Gb 14150Ϊ2 / 14150H2 L 14150Ϊ2 14150h1 14150g2 FIG.36 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (b) 14150fD ^ 50 ) 14150d2 χθ 14157Z i Y 14157 14157d1 14150e2 FIG.37 Y8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 Β1 (a) FIG.38 V8032PL0O/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.39 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 L3 (b1) (b2) L1 FIG.40 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.41 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.42 Y8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 Β1 FIG.43 EP 2 ° 7 407 B1 vs °^zo θ/Αίβ V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.45 V8032PL0O/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.46 V8032PL0O/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 3157 \ 3157h V 3157e FIG.47 V8032PL00/MB EP2 087 407 Β1 3150m 3150 FIG.48 V8032PLOO/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (31) 3150j~x \ 3150j 3159 V \ 3150 180 L ? r«180 3150A1 3150f ( b2) 3150Μ 153 1 3150 3150b FIG.49 V8032 ^ 00/MB EP 2 °8? 407 Β1 F lG.5o V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 ) V4159b '-4150g 4157b (b) 4157 / 4150 4150j 4159a 4159b ~4160a FIG.51 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.52 V8032PLOO/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 OD 4150A2 _ \ 182 180b3 4150A1 180b 4150 4150j K (a2) L3 i r-l· i i i i i i i i i i t i .180 z 4150A1 4150 X L'1 L’1 153 180 (c1) FIG.53 m50 4150A1 4150 180^ Y8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 5157m FIG.54 03' V8 °32PL00/Mb EP 2 087 407 B1 5157m 5150j 5150cl ' 5150z FIG.55 5150 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.56 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 180b 5150A1 5157k3 L2 /^1 ) 5 ! 157k4 7 5150j L3 5150 5150A1 y -5157k 153 FIG.57 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 X4 C=O FIG.58 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 8157b8157 8157h" 8157e FIG.59 Y8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 Β1 8157 V -8157e 31502 FIG.60 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 8160 8159 8150z 8150 FIG.61 / / 8150k -" bU V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 Bl L3 (a1) 8150A2 8150k \ 8157' 8150j 8159 V 8157( 02) 8160 8159 180b3 \ 8150A1 L1 ,153 L1 180 X c±ą FIG.62 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 81 FIG.63 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (a) ,6157 140R2 i A 6157v 6150e 61598 6158" . . . . , / /'. \ 6150z, 6159a1 j 6159a 6157b FIG.64 Y8O32PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 Β1 6150j FIG.65 V8032PL00/MB EP2 087 407 81 FIG.66 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (a) (b) (c) 6157 6150A1 .6157b 6159 *6159a1 L1 FIG.67 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 81 6158" 6159a1 £^6150A1 6150d L3 FIG.68 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (a1) (b1) FIG.69 Y8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 Β1 FIG.70 V8032PL0O/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.71 V8032PL0O/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (a) O 7150z f 7150f αδΟ 7130R1b 7150a 7150b 7150a 7130R1a y FIG.72 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 7150f 7150 (a) 7130R1a 7157a 7130R1 7157a \ i 7150 7130R1a\ y i / ) '/ /^7130R1b 7130R1d 7130R1e 7150c- z 7130R1f 7150c 7130R1b 182 y 180b 7157a 7150 f/X 7130R1b FIG.73 V8032PL00/MB EP2 087 407 Β1 188R 1132 FIG.74 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.75 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.76 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 Z-2 FIG.77 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.79 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.80 FIG.81 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (a) (a) 12150e 12150d 12150m 12150x12150z 12150i(b) 12150v 12150a y 12150m /12150z L2 12150f FIG.82 (b) 12250 i 12250K 12250d 12250e 122 ^ 12250a A 12250c 12250v 8 ( / -12250m 12250Χ -12250z 12250d 12250Ϊ FIG.83 12250m 12250z (b) 12350a (a) 12 ? 50 12350a 12350c ’12350d4' 12350e4 ;C1 12350Π 12350d2 123 50v 12350e2 -Σ / 12350d1 ) z -12350d1 12350e1 \ j j z -12350z 12350d2 12350f2 \ χ Ί2350ζ 12 350i . M2350d3 12350e3 12350c f \ 12350f2 12350f3 12350d3 ^^2 12350e2 FIG.84 Y8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 Β1 (c) (e) (9) (a) 9150h 9150 9150g 9150e .91 SOK 9250b 9250 9250a 9350a 9450a 9150d- z / Y 9150d 9150k 9150e (b) (d) (f) (h) 93501 92501 - 9350a 94501 -..... 94 5°q 9450a lY~)9450p FIG.85 Y8032PLOO/MB ΕΡ 2 087 407 Β1 10150S FIG.86 V8032PL0O/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.87 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (a) 150A1 L5i 180 10150 101501 / —10150A1 10150Γ L5i "180b V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 153 21100 21150d 21150a / 21150e FIG.89 V8032PL0O/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 180a V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (d) FIG.91 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 S1 FIG.92 Y8032PL00/MB ΕΡ 2 087 407 Β1 (b) L2 151503 -15150d 15150e 15151 15150k FIG.93 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (a) 151 ,^ 151§0b 15150A 15150e1 15155 J5150k1 15150g 15150d3 7 15150k4 15150k215150e2 15150d2 15l50k3 15150e3 15150d1 15150A 15150k215150e2— 15150A 1515002 15150A _ . 15l50k3-151501-— 15150A Ί5150Α -15150d4 V ""M5150A 15150a Cb) ,15150e1 / 15150k1 1 / O 0) 15150d1 ΦΖ5 C1 15150d4 15150e4 x x 15150 j ‘\^15150i S21* M5150d3V 15150k4 ie) 15150g (O W FIG.95 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 S22. i (a) 15151M I r ^151g1 15150Ϊ 15150 15151 15l50p f 15151()3 15150r 15151h2 15150C Χ32 15156 V (d) 15151Ϊ 15150i -rAi\ 15150 ź Χ32 L2 15151 FIG.96 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (b) FIG.97 V8032PLOO/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 107b 15150h2 15150e L1 ----------15150 15150d —- L2 -15150Z JM5150k Y8032PL00/MB ΕΡ 2 087 407 Β1 FIG.99 V8032PL0O/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (a1) 15150d 15150e 15150k~Y Β" 15150 _15150z 15151 15150k 151$0d (a2) ΑΧ-4- 151519^0^ 15 ' 155 (a3) 15150 (b3) 15150 -15150 15155 15151g' FIG.100 Y8032PL0O/MB EP 2 087 407 Β1 (a) FIG.101 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 180a FIG.102 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 X4 (a) L1 180' 15150A2. 15150^15150ą 15150c^ V 15150b \M80b "480b3 15150A1 15150 L2 -107 L1 L2 .107 1 FIG.1O3 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 FIG.104 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (a) X6 .XI80 L3 —15150 ,180 15150f^ 15 1 5 1 -15150Ϊ -107 15150 15150m 15150c- x 180b3 i5i50b A \ /' L3 180a 182a2 15150 ί l5l50a J V—180b 180b3 15151 15150A3 L2 L1 L2 L1 FIG .105 V8032PLOO/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 (a) 16151,· 161 j 51U x /16150p1 M6150p2 16156u 16150d 16150 16150p 16150a 16150e 16150k ^-16150z V8032PLOO/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 17150a 171502 17150K 17150d 17150e 17151 17150p 17150 (b) 17150d 17150Ϊ 17150e 171502 17150k FIGJ07 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 20151 120150p 20150z 20150d 20156a FIG.108 20150i V803 ^oo /Mb EP2O8 ^O7 B1 F,G '1O9 V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 i O o IX. V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 140R2 18152 UL V8032PL00/MB EP 2 087 407 B1 107d ODNOŚNIKI CYTOWANE W OPISIE Poniższa lista odnośników cytowanych przez zgłaszającego ma na celu wyłącznie pomoc dla czytającego i nie stanowi części dokumentu patentu europejskiego. Pomimo, że dołożono największej staranności przy jej tworzeniu, nie można wykluczyć błędów lub przeoczeń i EUP nie ponosi żadnej odpowiedzialności w tym względzie. Dokumenty patentowe cytowane w opisie • US 5903803 A [0008] [0010] US 4829335 A [0009] [0012] EP 1178370 A [0013] US 6473580 B1 [0014] JP 5341589 A [0014] US 2006240896A1[0014] JP 2004045603 A [0014] JP 1164818 A [0014] JP 2002031153 A [0014] US 2005191092A1 [0014]
655 paragraphs, as filed
Technical Field] [0001] The present invention relates to a process cartridge, an electrophotographic image forming device in which a work cartridge is detachably mounted, and an electrophotographic photoconductor unit.
[0002] Examples of an electrophotographic device for creating an image of electrophotography include a photocopier, an electrophotographic printer (laser printer LED printer), and the like.
[0003] The process cartridge is produced by integrally assembling the electrophotographic photosensitive member and the process means acting on the electrophotographic photosensitive member into an integral unit (cartridge), and is assembled in and removed from the electrophotographic imaging device. The process cartridge is formed, for example, by integrally assembling the electrophotographic photosensitive member and at least one of the means - developing agent, charging agent and cleaning agent as process agents. Accordingly, examples of the process cartridge include a process cartridge made by integrally assembling an electrophotographic photosensitive member and three process means including developing agent, charging agent and cleaning agent; or a process cartridge made by integrally assembling an electrophotographic photosensitive member and charging agent as the process agent; or a process cartridge made by integrally assembling the electrophotographic photosensitive member and two process means, including a charging agent and a cleaning agent.
[0004] The process cartridge can be detachably mounted on the main unit assembly by the user himself. Therefore, maintenance of the device can be carried out by the user himself without having to use the services of a service person. The result is efficiency while maintaining an electrophotographic imaging device.
[BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION] [0005] In a conventional process cartridge, it is known to use the structure described below with the main assembly of the rotational motive power takeover device to rotate the electrophotographic photosensitive member in the form of a drum (hereinafter referred to as "photosensitive drum").
[0006] On the main assembly side, for transmitting driving force from the motor, a rotary member with a non-round twisted hole is used, which is made in the central part of the rotary member and has a cross section provided with several corners ensuring integral rotation of the rotary member.
[0007] On the side of the process cartridge there is a non-round twisted projection which is located at one of the longitudinal ends of the photosensitive drum and has a cross section provided with several corners. [0008] When the rotatable member in the engaged state rotates in the meshing state between the projection and the opening, if the process insert is mounted in the main assembly of the device, then in a state in which the pull force exerted towards the opening is exerted the rotational force of the rotating member is transmitted to the photosensitive drum. As a result, the rotational force for rotating the photosensitive drum is transferred from the main unit assembly to the photosensitive drum unit (US Patent No. 5,903,803).
[0009] Furthermore, a method is known in which the drum is rotated by engaging a gear wheel permanently mounted on a photosensitive drum as a process cartridge (US Patent No. 4,829,335).
[0010] However, in the conventional structure described in US Patent No. 5,903,803, it is required that when assembling or disassembling the process cartridge in the main assembly, the rotating member moves in a horizontal direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of the rotating member. This means that the rotary member must be moved horizontally during the operation of opening and closing the cover of the main assembly with which the main assembly of the device is provided. When opening the main unit cover, the opening moves away from the projection. On the other hand, in the case of the lid closing operation of the main assembly, the opening is moved towards the projection so that it engages with the projection. [0011] Consequently, in a conventional process cartridge it is required to provide the main assembly with a structure for moving the rotary member. towards the axis of rotation when opening and closing the main cover assembly.
[0012] In the system described in US Patent No. 4,829,335, without activating the toothed wheel driving the main assembly in the direction along the axis, the insert can be mounted and removed from the main assembly by moving it in a direction perpendicular to the axis. However, in such a construction, the driving part of the connection between the main assembly and the insert is the coupling part between the toothed elements, so that it is difficult to avoid a lack of uniformity of rotation of the photosensitive drum.
[0013] The prior art can be found in document EP 1 178 370 describing an image generating device. The image generating device of EP 1 370 178 includes a processing module detachably mounted to the main assembly of the device, a process unit comprising an image carrier, for transferring an electrostatic image, and process means capable of operating on the image carrier, the process medium having a rotary shaft, a shaft drive, essentially coaxial with the rotary shaft, for rotating the rotary wafer and, coupled to the drive shaft and rotary shaft, a driving transmission member for transmitting a drive shaft from the drive shaft to the rotary shaft, wherein the drive transmission member is coupled to the drive watt with a certain clearance and is connected with a certain clearance to the rotary shaft.
[0014] Furthermore, a solution belonging to the prior art can be found in US 6,473,580 B1, describing a member for transmitting a driving force, a coupling, a toner image carrier, a process cartridge and an electrophotographic image forming device. A further solution belonging to the prior art can be found in JP 5 341589 A describing an image forming device. In addition, the prior art solution can be found in US 2006/240896 A1, describing a constant velocity joint and an image forming device. Another prior art solution can be found in JP 2004 045603 A describing an image forming device. A further solution belonging to the prior art can be found in JP 1 164 818 A describing the connecting device waiy. another known device can be found in JP document
2002 031153 A describing the coupling device and the image creation device comprising it. In addition, the prior art solution can be found in US 2005/191092 A1 describing an image forming device.
[DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION] [0015] The main object of the present invention is to provide a process cartridge, photoconductor assembly, and electrophotographic imaging device to solve the problems described above associated with conventional process cartridges.
[0016] Another object of the present invention is to provide a process cartridge that allows smooth rotation of the photosensitive drum when mounted with a main assembly not equipped with any mechanism for moving the coupling member on the main assembly side toward its axis for transmitting rotational force to the photosensitive drum during opening and closing the main unit cover. Another object of the present invention is to provide a photosensitive drum assembly used in a process cartridge, and an electrophotographic image forming device in which the process cartridge can be mounted and from which the process cartridge can be disassembled. [0017] Another object of the present invention is to provide a process cartridge that allows removal from the main assembly to form an image of an electrophotographic device comprising a propeller shaft in a direction perpendicular to the axial line of the propeller shaft. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a photosensitive drum assembly used in a process cartridge and an electrophotographic image forming device to which the process cartridge can be detachably mounted.
[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide a process cartridge that allows it to be mounted in a main assembly forming an image of an electrophotographic device comprising a drive shaft in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of this drive shaft. A further object of the present invention is to develop a photosensitive drum assembly used in the process cartridge , and an electrophotographic imaging device, to which the process cartridge can be mounted detachably.
[0019] Another object of the present invention is to provide a process cartridge for assembly and disassembly in a main assembly of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus comprising a drive shaft in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of the drive shaft. Another object of the present invention is to provide a photosensitive drum assembly used in a process cartridge, and an electrophotographic image forming device to which the process cartridge can be detachably mounted.
[0020] Another object of the present invention is to provide a process cartridge ensuring compatibility so that the process cartridge can be dismounted from the main assembly including the drive shaft in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of the drive shaft, and is able to provide smooth rotation of the photosensitive drum. Another object of the present invention is to provide a photosensitive drum assembly used in a process cartridge, and an electrophotographic image forming device to which the process cartridge can be detachably mounted.
[0021] Another object of the present invention is to provide a process cartridge ensuring compatibility when mounting the process cartridge in a main assembly containing the drive shaft, substantially in a direction perpendicular to the drive shaft axial line, and is able to provide smooth rotation of the photosensitive drum. Another object of the present invention is to provide a photosensitive drum assembly used in a process cartridge and an electrophotographic image forming device to which the process cartridge can be detachably mounted.
[0022] Another object of the present invention is to provide a process cartridge that ensures the compatibility of the process cartridge for assembly and disassembly in the main assembly including the drive shaft in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of the drive shaft and is able to provide smooth rotation of the photosensitive drum. Another object of the present invention is to provide a photosensitive drum assembly used in a process cartridge and an electrophotographic image forming device to which the process cartridge can be detachably mounted. [0023] The above-mentioned objectives have been achieved in accordance with the characteristics of the independent claims. Preferred modifications are set out in the appended dependent claims.
[0024] These and other objects, characteristics and advantages of the present invention are more readily apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments of the present invention, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
[Short description of the drawings] [0025]
Fig. 1 - is a cross-sectional side view of a process cartridge according to one embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 2 - is a perspective view in cross section of the process cartridge according to this embodiment of the invention
Fig. 3 - is a perspective view in cross section of the process cartridge according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 4 - is a cross-sectional side view of the main assembly of the device according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 5 - is a perspective view and cross-sectional view of a longitudinal drum flange (drum shaft) according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 6 - is a perspective view of a photosensitive drum according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 7 - shows longitudinal sections of the photosensitive drum according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 8 shows perspective views and a longitudinal section view of a clutch according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 9 - perspective views of a drum support member according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 10 shows detailed views of the side surface of a process cartridge according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the longitudinal section of the clutch and the support member according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 12 - is a side cross-sectional view after assembly of the process cartridge according to this embodiment of the invention
Fig. 13 - is a side cross-sectional view after assembly of the process insert, according to this embodiment of the invention
Fig. 14 - is a cross-sectional side view of the process cartridge according to this embodiment of the invention.
presents perspective views illustrating the state of connection of the drum shaft and the clutch.
shows perspective views illustrating the state of clutch inclination, shows perspective views and a longitudinal section view of the drive structure of the main device assembly, according to this embodiment of the invention shows a perspective view of a part belonging to the process cartridge set, the main device assembly, according to this embodiment of the invention shows a perspective view of the part belonging to process cartridge set, main device assembly, according to this embodiment of the invention, sectional views that illustrate the process of mounting a process cartridge in the main assembly of the device according to this embodiment of the invention.
shows perspective views that illustrate the coupling process between the drive shaft and the clutch according to this embodiment of the invention.
shows perspective views that illustrate the coupling process between the drive shaft and the clutch according to this embodiment of the invention.
shows perspective views that illustrate the process of connecting a main device assembly and a process cartridge clutch according to this embodiment of the invention.
is an exploded perspective view that shows the drive shaft, drive gear, clutch and drum shaft according to this embodiment of the invention.
shows perspective views that illustrate the process of disengaging the clutch from the propeller shaft according to this embodiment of the invention.
shows perspective views that show a coupling and a drum shaft according to this embodiment of the invention shows perspective views that show a drum shaft according to this embodiment of the invention.
shows perspective views that show the drive shaft and the driving gear according to this embodiment of the invention shows perspective views that show the coupling according to this embodiment of the invention.
is an exploded perspective view that shows a drum shaft, drive shaft and coupling according to this embodiment of the invention, shows a side view and a longitudinal section of the side surface of the process cartridge according to this embodiment of the invention.
shows a perspective view and a view of the main assembly of the device from the side of a part of the process cartridge assembly according to this embodiment of the invention.
shows longitudinal sections that illustrate the process of dismantling the process cartridge from the main assembly of the device according to this embodiment of the invention.
shows longitudinal sections that illustrate the process of mounting a process cartridge on the main assembly of a device according to this embodiment of the invention.
β
Fig. 35 - is a perspective view that shows the drive shaft phase control means according to a second embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 36 is a perspective view that illustrates the assembly operation of the process cartridge according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 37 shows perspective views of a clutch according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 38 shows a top view of the mounting condition of the process cartridge seen in the mounting direction according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 39 - perspective views that illustrate the drive state of the process cartridge (photosensitive drum) according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 40 - shows longitudinal sections and perspective views that illustrate the dismantling operation of the process cartridge according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 41 - is a cross-sectional view that shows the state in which the door of the main unit of the device is open, according to a third embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 42 - is a perspective view that shows the mounting guide of the driving side of the main assembly of the device according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 43 - is a side view of the driving side of the cartridge according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 44 is a perspective view from the driving side of the cartridge according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 45 - is a side view that illustrates the state of insertion of the process input cartridge into the main assembly of the device according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 46 - is a perspective view that illustrates the state of attachment of the locking member to the drum support member according to the fourth embodiment of the invention,
Fig. 47 is an exploded perspective view that shows the drum support member, the clutch and the drum shaft according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 48 is a perspective view that shows the driving side of a cartridge according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 49 - is a perspective view and longitudinal section that illustrates the state between the propeller shaft and the coupler according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 50 is an exploded perspective view that shows the state after mounting the pressure member into the drum support member according to the fifth embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 51 is an exploded perspective view that shows the drum support member, the clutch and the drum shaft according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 52 - perspective view shows the driving side of the cartridge according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 53 - is a perspective view and longitudinal section that illustrates the meshing condition between the drive shaft and the clutch according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 54 is an exploded perspective view that shows the cartridge before assembling the main members according to the sixth embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 55 is a side view that shows the driving side according to this embodiment of the invention
Fig. 56 - shows schematic longitudinal sections of a drum and clutch shaft according to this embodiment of the invention.
Ί shows longitudinal sections that illustrate the meshing condition between the drive shaft and the clutch according to this embodiment of the invention.
shows cross sections that a modified example of a coupling locking member, according to this embodiment of the invention.
is a perspective view that shows the state of engagement of the magnetic member with the drum support member according to a seventh embodiment of the invention.
is an exploded perspective view that shows the drum support member, the clutch and the drum shaft according to this embodiment of the invention.
is a perspective view showing the driving side of the cartridge according to this embodiment of the invention.
shows perspective views and longitudinal sections that illustrate the meshing condition between the drive shaft and the clutch according to this embodiment of the invention.
is a perspective view that shows the driving side of the cartridge according to an eighth embodiment of the invention.
shows n exploded perspective views that show the state prior to assembly of the support member according to this embodiment of the invention shows longitudinal sections that show the designs of the drum shaft, clutch and support member according to this embodiment of the invention.
is a perspective view that shows the driving side of the main mounting guide of the device according to this embodiment of the invention.
shows longitudinal sections that illustrate the disengaged state of the locking member according to this embodiment of the invention.
shows longitudinal sections that illustrate the meshing between the drive shaft and the clutch according to this embodiment of the invention.
shows side views that show the driving side of the cartridge according to a ninth embodiment of the invention.
is a perspective view that shows the driving side of the main mounting guide of the device according to this embodiment of the invention.
shows side views that show the relationship between the cartridge and the assembly driving side of the cartridge according to this embodiment of the invention.
shows perspective views that show the relationship between the main mounting guide and the clutch according to this embodiment of the invention.
shows the driving side side views that illustrate the assembly process at the main cartridge assembly according to this embodiment of the invention.
is a perspective view that shows the driving side of the main mounting guide, according to a tenth embodiment of the invention.
is a side view that shows the relationship between the main mounting guide and the clutch according to this embodiment of the invention.
is a perspective view that shows the relationship between the main mounting guide and the clutch according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 77 - is a side view that shows the relationship between the insert and the main mounting guide according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 78 is a perspective view that illustrates the relationship between the main mounting guide and the clutch according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 79 - is a side view that shows the relationship between the main mounting guide and the clutch according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 80 - is a perspective view that illustrates the relationship between the main mounting guide and the clutch according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 81 - is a side view that shows the relationship between the main mounting guide and the clutch according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 82 is a perspective view and cross-section of a clutch according to the eleventh embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 83 - is a perspective view and cross-section of a clutch according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 84 - is a perspective view and cross-section of a clutch according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 85 shows perspective views and cross-sections of a clutch according to a twelfth embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 86 is a perspective view that shows a clutch according to the thirteenth embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 87 is a cross-sectional view that shows the drum shaft, drive shaft, clutch, and push member according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 88 is a cross-sectional view that shows the drum shaft, clutch, carrier member and drive shaft according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 89 is a perspective view that shows a drum shaft and a clutch according to the fourteenth embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 90 - is a perspective view that illustrates the meshing process between the drum shaft and the clutch according to this embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 91 - perspective views and cross-sections that show the drum shaft, clutch and support member according to the fifteenth embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 92 is a perspective view that illustrates the method of supporting the clutch (assembly method) according to the sixteenth embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 93 - is a perspective view that illustrates the method of supporting the clutch (assembly method) according to the seventeenth embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 94 - is a perspective view of a cartridge according to one embodiment of the invention, a
Fig. 95 only shows the clutch according to one embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 96 - shows a drum flange provided with a clutch according to one embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 97 - shows cross sections along the line S22-S22 in Fig. 84.
Fig. 98 - is a cross-sectional view of the photosensitive drum assembly according to one embodiment of the invention,
Fig. 99 - is a cross-sectional view taken along the line S23-S23 in Fig. 85.
Fig. 100 - is a perspective view that illustrates the combined condition of drum and clutch shaft, according to one embodiment of the invention.
shows perspective views that illustrate the slope condition of the clutch according to one embodiment of the invention.
shows perspective views that illustrate the meshing process between the drive shaft and the clutch, according to one embodiment of the invention.
shows perspective views that illustrate the meshing process between the drive shaft and the coupler, according to one embodiment of the invention.
is an exploded perspective view that shows a drive shaft driving a gear, clutch and drum shaft according to one embodiment of the invention.
shows perspective views that illustrate the process of disengaging a clutch from a propeller shaft, according to one embodiment of the invention.
shows perspective views that illustrate the combined condition of the drum and clutch shafts, according to one embodiment of the invention.
shows perspective views that illustrate the combined condition of the drum and clutch shafts, according to one embodiment of the invention.
is perspective views showing the combined state of the drum and clutch shafts according to one embodiment of the invention.
is a perspective view of the first frame assembly provided with a photoconductor, viewed from the driven side, according to one embodiment of the invention.
is a perspective view that shows a drum shaft and a clutch according to one embodiment of the invention.
is a cross-sectional view taken along the line S20-S20 in Fig. 79.
shows a perspective view of a photoconductor assembly according to this embodiment of the invention.
[Optimal mode for carrying out the invention] [0026] The process cartridge and electrophotographic image generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention are described below.
[Implementation 1] (1) Short description of the process cartridge [0027] In the following, with reference to Figures 1 to 4, a process cartridge B is described which is used in one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional view of cartridge B. Figs. 2 and 3 are perspective views of the B cartridge. Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the main device assembly A of the electrophotographic image forming device (hereinafter referred to as "main device assembly A"). The main device assembly A corresponds to the part of the electrophotographic imaging device, without process input B.
[0028] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the process cartridge B comprises an electrophotographic photoconductor 107. The photoconductor 107 is rotated by a rotational force transmitted from the main device assembly A by the coupling mechanism when the process cartridge B is mounted in the main assembly device A as shown in Fig. 4. Process cartridge B can be assembled and disassembled from the main device assembly A by the user.
[0029] The charging roller 108 as the charging agent (process medium) is placed in contact with the outer periphery of the photoconductor drum 107. The charging roller 108 electrically charges the photoconductor 107 by applying voltage from the main component A. The charging roller 108 is rotated when the photoconductor drum 107 rotates.
[0030] Process cartridge B includes developing roller 110 as developing agent (process agent). The developing roller 110 supplies the developer to the photoconductor developing area 107. The developing roller 110, by means of the developer t, develops an electrostatic latent image formed on the photoconductor drum 107. The developing roller 110 contains a magnet roll inside (permanent magnet)
111. In contact with the peripheral surface of the developing roller 110, the developing blade 112 is located. The developing blade 112 determines the amount of developer to be deposited on the peripheral surface of the developing roller 110. The developing blade 112 acts with triboelectric charges on the developer t. [0031] The developer t contained in developer container 114 is sent to developing chamber 113a by rotation of mixing members 115 and 116 such that the developing roller 110 energized is rotated. As a result, a layer is formed on the surface of the developing roller 110, to which electric charges are transferred through the developing blade 112. The developer t is transferred to the photoconductor 107 depending on the latent image. As a result, the latent image is developed.
[0032] The developer image formed on the photoconductor 107 is transferred to the recording medium by the transfer roller 104. The recording medium 102 is used to create an image thereon from the developer and it is, for example, a recording paper, label, transparency sheet, or the like.
[0033] In contact with the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 107, a flexible cleaning bar 117a is disposed as a cleaning agent (process agent). Cleaning strip 117a flexibly contacts the photoconductor 107 at its end and removes the developer t remaining on the photoconductor 107 after the developer has been transferred to the recording medium 102. The developer t removed from the surface of the photosensitive drum 107 by the cleaning bar held in the container 117b for the removed developer.
[0034] The insert B is integrally formed by the first frame assembly 119 and the second frame assembly 120, [0035] The first frame assembly 119 is formed by the first frame 113 as part of the B1 of the insert frame. The first frame assembly 119 includes developing roller 110, developing blade 112, developing chamber 113a, developer container 114, and mixing members 115 and 116.
[0036] The second frame assembly 120 is formed by the second frame 118 as part of the frame B1 of the cartridge. The second frame assembly 120 includes a photoconductor 107, a cleaning bar 117a, a container 117b for removable developer, and a loading roller 108.
[0037] The first frame assembly 119 and the second frame assembly 120 are pivotally connected to each other by a pin P. When the elastic member 135 (Fig. 3) is placed between the first and second frame assemblies 119 and 120, the developing roller 110 is pressed against the photosensitive drum 107 .
[0038] The user attaches (assembles) the cartridge B to the installation section 130a of the cartridge, main component assembly A, holding it by the handle. During assembly, as described below, the drive shaft 180 (Fig. 17) of the main component assembly A and the coupling member 150 (described below) as part of the cartridge B transmitting the rotational force are interconnected synchronously with the assembly operation of the cartridge B. Image drum 107, or the like, is rotated by transmitting a rotational force from main component A.
(2). Description of the device for creating an electrophotographic image [0039] With reference to Figure 4, the device for creating a photographic effect image using the insert B described above is described.
[0040] The following describes the laser printer as an example of main component A. [0041] During image creation, the surface of the rotating photoconductor 107 is evenly electrically charged by the charge roller 108. Then, the surface of the photosensitive drum 107 is irradiated, depending on the image information, by laser light emitted by the optical means 101 and non-shown elements such as a laser diode, polygonal mirror , lens and reflecting mirror. As a result, a latent electrostatic image forms on the photoconductor drum 107 depending on the image information. The latent image is developed by the developing roller 110 described above.
[0042] On the other hand, synchronously with image formation, the recording medium 102 disposed in the cartridge 103a is transported to the transfer position 103b by the feed roller and pairs 103c, 103d and 103e of the transfer rollers. In the transfer position, a transfer roller 104 is arranged as a transfer medium. A tension is applied to the transfer roller 104. As a result, the developer image created on the photoconductor 107 is transferred to the recording medium 102.
[0043] The recording medium 102 to which the image of the developer is transferred is transferred to the attachment means 105 through the guide 103f. The fastening means 105 includes a drive roller 105c and therein a fastening roller 105b containing a heater 105a, Passing recording medium 102, is subjected to temperature and pressure, so that the image from the developer is fixed on the recording medium 102. As a result, the recording medium 102 is formed image. Then, the recording medium 102 is transferred through pairs of rolls 103g and 103h and discharged into tray 106. Roik 103b described above, pairs of transfer rollers 103c, 103d and 103e, guide 103f, pairs of rollers 103g and 103h, and the like, are transfer means 103 to carry the recording medium 102.
[0044] The installation section 130a is the part (space) for mounting the insert B therein. In a state in which the insert B is located in this space, the coupling element 150 (described below) of the insert B is connected to the drive shaft of the main component A, In this embodiment, the installation of the B cartridge in the installation section 130a is hereinafter referred to as the installation of the B cartridge in the main device assembly A. Furthermore, the dismantling (removal) of the B cartridge from the attachment portion 130b is hereinafter referred to as the disassembly of the B cartridge from the main component A. (3) Description of the drum flange structure [0045] First, with reference to Fig. 5, the drum flange on the side , where the rotational force is transmitted from the main component A to the photoconductor drum 107 (hereinafter simply referred to as the "drive side"). Fig. 5 (a) is a perspective view of the drive drum drum flange and Fig. 5 (b) is a cross-sectional view of the drum flange along the line S1 - S1 shown in Fig. 5 (a). By the way, the side opposite the drive side, with respect to the axial direction of the photoconductor, is referred to as the "non-drive side".
[0046] The drum collar 151 is made of resin material by extrusion molding. Examples of the resin material may include polyacetal, polycarbonate and the like. The drum shaft 153 is made of metal, such as iron, stainless steel and the like. The selection of suitable materials for the drum flange 151 and the drum shaft 153 can take place depending on the load moment when the photosensitive drum 107 is rotated. For example, the drum collar 151 may also be made of metallic material, and the drum shaft 153 may also be made of resinous material. If both the drum collar 151 and the drum shaft 153 are formed of resin material, they may be integrally formed.
[0047] The flange 151 is provided with a coupling portion 151a that engages with the inner surface 151c of the photosensitive drum 107 (helical gears or spur gears) for transmitting rotational force to the developing roller 110, and the pivoting coupling 151d in the drum bearing. More specifically, in the case of flange 151, the coupling portion 151 a meshes with one end of the cylindrical drum 107a, as described below. These parts are arranged coaxially with the axis of rotation L1 of the photosensitive drum 107. In this case the coupling part 151a of the drum is cylindrical and the base 151 b is perpendicular thereto, the base 151 b is provided with a drum shaft 153 projecting outwards towards the axis L1. This drum shaft 153 is coaxial with the drum coupling portion 151a. They are fixed in such a way that they are coaxial with the axis of rotation L1. With respect to their attachment method, interference fit, gluing, insertion injection and the like are available and appropriately selected.
[0048] The drum shaft 153 comprises a round column portion 153a that has a protruding configuration and is positioned coaxial with the axis of rotation of the photosensitive drum 107. The drum shaft 153 is located on the end of the photosensitive drum 107 on the L1 axis of the photosensitive drum. 107. In addition, the drum shaft 153 is about 5-15 mm in diameter considering material, cargo, and space. The free end portion 153b of the circular portion 153a of the column has a semi-spherical surface shape so that it can be gently sloped when the axis of the drum engaging member 150 is inclined, which is the rotational force transmitting part as described in detail below. In addition, in order to absorb the rotational force from the drum coupling member 150, a rotational force transfer pin (portion of the rotational force member) 155 is arranged on the free end side of the photoconductor drum 107. The pin 155 extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of the drum shaft 153 .
[0049] The pivot 155 as the rotational force receiving member has a cylindrical shape that has a diameter smaller than the portion 153a of the drum drum shaft column 153, and is made of metal or resin. It is attached to the drum shaft 153 by pressing, welding, etc. At the same time, the pin 155 is mounted in a direction that intersects with the axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 107. It is preferred to orient the axis of the pin 155 so that it passes through the center P2 of the spherical surface of the free end portion 153b of the drum shaft 153 (Fig. 5 (b)). Although the free end portion 153b is in fact hemispherical, P2 is the center of the apparent spherical surface of which the semispherical surface is a part. In addition, it is possible to select the appropriate number of pins 155. In this embodiment, a single pin 155 is used due to the mounting conditions and for reliable transmission of driving torque. The pin 155 passes through said center P2, and through the drum shaft 153. In addition, the pin 155 protrudes outwardly onto the peripheral surface of the drum shaft 153 at locations (155a1, 155a2) that are diametrically opposed. More precisely, the pin 155 protrudes in a direction perpendicular to the axis (axis L1) of the drum shaft 153, relative to the drum shaft 153, in two opposite places (155a1, 155a2). Accordingly, the drum shaft 153 absorbs rotational force from the drum engagement member 150 at two locations. In this embodiment, the pin 155 is embedded in the drum shaft 153, within 5 mm of the free end of the drum shaft 153. This, however, does not limit the scope of the invention.
[0050] Furthermore, the space portion 151e formed by the coupling portion 151d and base 151b houses a portion of the drum coupling member 150 when mounting the drum coupling member 150 to the flange 151 (as described below).
[0051] In this embodiment, part 151a of the transmission for rotational force transmission to the developing roll 110 is mounted on the flange 151. However, the rotation of the developing roll 110 can be transmitted not through the flange 151. In this case, the gear 151c is unnecessary. However, when the gear part 151a is arranged on the flange 151, integral molding with the flange 151 of the gear part 151a may be used.
[0052] The flange 151, the drum shaft 153, and the pin 155 act as a rotational force adopting member that absorbs the rotational force from the drum engaging member 150, as described below.
(4) Construction of the electrophotographic photosensitive drum assembly [0053] In the following, with reference to Figures 6 and 7, the construction of the electrophotographic photosensitive drum member assembly ("drum assembly") is described. Fig. 6 (a) is a perspective view from the drive side of the drum assembly U1 and Fig. 6 (b) is a perspective view from the non-driven side. Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along S2-S2 in Fig. 6 (a).
[0054] The photosensitive drum 107 has a cylindrical drum 107a coated on the outer surface with the photosensitive layer 107b.
[0055] The cylindrical drum 107a comprises an electrically conductive cylinder, for example an aluminum one, and a photosensitive layer 107b applied thereon. At its opposite ends is the surface of the drum, and basically coaxial hole 107a1, 107a2, for engagement with the drum flange (151, 152). More specifically, the shaft drum 153 is located on the end portion of the cylindrical drum 107a coaxially with the cylindrical drum 107a. The gear marked by 151c transmits the rotational force absorbed by the clutch 150 from the drive shaft 180 to the developing roller 110.1. The gear wheel 151c is integrally formed with the flange 15.
[0056] The cylinder 107a may be hollow or solid.
[0057] The description of the drive side drum flange 151 is omitted because it has already been described above. [0058] The non-driven side drum flange 152 is made of resin, similar to the driven side for injection molding. In this case, the drum coupling part 152b and the bearing part are arranged substantially coaxially to each other. In addition, the flange 152 is provided with a drum grounding plate 156. Drum 156 ground plate is an electrically conductive thin (metal) plate. Drum grounding plate 156 includes contact parts 156b1, 156b2 that contact the inner surface of the electrically conductive cylindrical drum 107a and contact portion 156a that contacts the grounding shaft 154 of the drum (described later). To ground the photosensitive drum 107, the drum ground plate 156 is electrically connected to the main device assembly A.
[0059] The non-driven side drum flange 152 is made of resin, like the driven side, by injection molding. In this case, the drum coupling part 152b and the bearing part 152a are substantially coaxial. In addition, the flange 152 is provided with a drum ground plate 156. Drum ground plate 156 is an electrically conductive thin plate (metal). Drum grounding plate 156 includes contact parts 156b1, 156b2 that contact the inner surface of the electrically conductive cylindrical drum 107a, and contact portion 156a that contacts the grounding shaft 154 of the drum (described later). To ground the photosensitive drum 107, the drum ground plate 156 is electrically connected to the main device assembly A.
[0060] Although the description states that a drum grounding plate 156 is used in the flange 152, the present invention is not limited to such an example. For example, the ground plate 156 can be disposed on the drum flange 151, and it is possible to selectively select a suitable location that can be connected to the ground. [0061] Thus, the drum assembly U1 includes a photoconductor drum 107 which has a cylinder 107a, flange 151, flange 152, drum shaft 153, pin 155, and drum ground plate 156.
(5) Rotational force transmitting part (drum coupling member) [0062] In the following, with reference to Fig. 8, an embodiment of the drum engaging member which is the rotational force transmitting part is described. Fig. 8 (a) is a perspective view of the drum coupling member from the main device assembly, Fig. 8 (b) is a perspective view of the drum coupling member from the photoconductive drum side, and Fig. 8 (c) is a view in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the coupling rotary shaft L2. In addition, Fig. 8 (d) is a side view of the coupling member of the drum of the main assembly unit, Fig. 8 (e) is a view from the photoconductive side, and Fig. 8 (f) is a cross-sectional view along the line S3 in Fig. 8 (d).
[0063] The drum coupling member 150 ("clutch") meshes with the drive shaft 180 (Fig. 17) of the main component assembly A in a state in which the insert B is mounted in the installation section 130a. In addition, the clutch 150 is disengaged from the propeller shaft 180 when the container B is removed from the main assembly A device. The clutch 150 absorbs the rotational force from the engine located in the main assembly, through the propeller shaft 180 in a state in which it is coupled to the propeller shaft 180. In addition, the clutch 150 transmits rotational force to its photoconductor 107. The materials available for the clutch 150 are resin materials such as polyacetal and PPS polycarbonate. However, to increase the rigidity of the coupling 150, glass fibers, carbon fibers, and the like may be added to the resin material described above according to the required load moment. In the case of doping said material, it is possible to increase the rigidity of the coupling 150. In addition, metal can be introduced into the resin, then it is also possible to increase the rigidity, and the entire coupling can be made of metal, etc.
[0064] The clutch 150 consists of three main parts.
[0065] The first part may be fastened to a drive shaft 180 (described below), and this is a part of the drive side clutch 150a for absorbing the rotational force from the rotational force pin 182 which is the rotational force exerting part (the main transmitting part assembly) located on drive shaft 180. In addition, a second part may be coupled to the pin 155b, and it is a drive part 150b on the clutch side for transmitting rotational force to the drum shaft 153. Furthermore, the third part is a connecting part 150c, for interconnecting the driven part 150a and the driving part 150b (Figs. 8 (c) and (f)).
[0066] The driven portion 150a, driving portion 150b and connection portion 150c may be integrally formed, or, alternatively, the individual parts may be connected to each other. In this implementation, they are formed integrally from the resin. Thanks to this, making the clutch 150 is easy and
- 15 its accuracy as part is high. As shown in Fig. 8 (f), the driven part 150a is equipped with a part 150m with a hole for introducing the propeller shaft that widens in the direction of rotation L2 of the clutch 150. The driving part 150b has a part 1501 with an opening for the insertion of the drum shaft, which widens towards the axis L2 of rotation, [0067] The opening 150m has a conical bearing surface 150f of the driving shaft, which when mounting the coupling 150 in the main unit A, expands towards drive shaft 180. The receiving surface 150f is a depression 150z as shown in Fig. 8 (f). The recess 150z includes an opening 150m in a position opposite the side adjacent to the photoconductor 107 with respect to the direction of the axis L2.
Thanks to this, regardless of the rotation phase of the photosensitive drum 107 in the cartridge B, the clutch 150 can rotate between the angular position of the rotational force transmission, the angular position of the initial engagement and the angular position of disengagement, relative to the L1 axis of the photosensitive drum 107, without being blocked by the free part end shaft 180. The angular position of the rotational force transmission, the angular position of the initial coupling and the angular position of disengagement are described below.
[0069] On the circumference of the end surface of the recess 150z, about the axis L2, several projections (coupling parts) 150d1-150d4 are spaced at equal intervals. Between adjacent projections 150d1, 150d2, 150d3, 150d4, there are spare parts 150k1, 150k2, 150k3, 150k4. The spacing between adjacent projections 150d1 - 150d4 are larger than the outer diameter of the pin 182, so that they accommodate the rotational force transmitting pins 182 of the propeller shaft 180 located in the main device assembly A (parts exerting rotational force). The recesses between the adjacent projections are spare parts 150k1-k4. When the rotational force is transmitted to the coupling 150 from the propeller shaft 180, the transfer pins 182a1, 182a2 fit into any of the spare parts 150k1-k4. Furthermore, in Fig. 8 (d), the surfaces receiving the rotational force (parts of the absorbing the rotational force) 150e (150e1-150e4) intersecting with the direction of rotation of the clutch 150 are in the (X1) clockwise direction relative to the individual projections 150d. More specifically, projection 150d1 has a receiving surface 150e1, projection 150d2 has a receiving surface 150e2, projection 150d3 has a receiving surface 150e3, and projection 150d4 has a receiving surface 150e4. In the state in which the drive shaft 180 rotates, the pin 182a1, 182a2 contacts one of the receiving surfaces 150e1 - 150e4. In this way, the receiving surface 150e with which the pin 182a1, 182a2 contacts is pushed by the pin 182d. Because of this, the clutch 150 rotates around the axis L2. The receiving surface 150el -150e4 is extended in the direction of the intersection with the direction of rotation of the clutch 150.
[0070] In order to maximally stabilize the current torque transmitted to the clutch 150, it is desirable to arrange the rotating force surfaces 150e on the same circumference that has a center on the axis L2. Due to this, the radius of rotation force is constant, and the current torque transmitted to the coupling 150 is stabilized. Furthermore, as with projections 150d1 - 150d4, it is advantageous if the position of the clutch 150 is stabilized by a balance of forces absorbed by the clutch. For this reason, in this implementation, the receiving surfaces 150e are arranged in diametrically opposed places (180 degrees). In particular, in this embodiment, the receiving surface 150e1 and the receiving surface 150e3 are diametrically spaced relative to each other, and the receiving surface 150e2 and the receiving surface 150e4 are diametrically opposed to each other (Fig. 8 (d)). In this arrangement, the forces absorbed by the clutch 150 are a pair of forces. Therefore, the clutch 150 can continue rotating by taking over only a pair of forces. For this reason, the clutch 150 can rotate without having to determine the location of its rotation axis L2. In addition, as long as the drive shaft pins 182 (the portion exerting rotational force) can fall into the spare parts 150k1 150k2, it is possible to select their number accordingly. In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 8, there are four receiving surfaces. This embodiment is not limited to this example embodiment. For example, the receiving surfaces 150e (projections 150d1 - 150d4) need not be located on the same circumference (virtual circle C1 and Fig. 8 (d)). Or, it is not necessary to arrange them in diametrically opposed places. However, the effects described above can be obtained by arranging the receiving surfaces 150e in the manner described above.
[0071] Here, in this embodiment, the bolt diameter is about 2 mm and the circumferential length of the reserve portion 150k is about 8 mm. The circumferential length of the reserve part 150k is the distance between adjacent projections 150d (on the virtual circle). These dimensions are not a limitation of this invention.
[0072] Like the 150m opening, the portion of the opening 1501 intended for inserting the drum shaft has a conical surface 150i for absorbing rotational force with the expanded part which extends towards the drum shaft 153 in the state in which it is attached to the cartridge B. The receiving surface 150i is recess 150q, as shown in Fig. 8 (f).
As a result, regardless of the rotation phase of the photosensitive drum 107 in the B cartridge, the clutch 150 can rotate between the angular position of the rotational force transmission, the angular position of the initial coupling and the angular position of disengagement, relative to the L1 axis of the photosensitive drum 107, without being blocked by the free part drum shaft end plate 153. The recess 150q is formed in the example shown by a conical receiving surface 150i which is centered around the axis L2. Auxiliary holes 150g1 or 150g2 ("hole") are made in the receiving surface 150i (Fig. 8b). As for coupling 150, pins 155 can be inserted inside this bore 150g1 or 150g2 so that it can be attached to the drum shaft 153. The 150g1 or 150g2 hole size is larger than the outer diameter of the pin 155. In this way, regardless of the rotation phase of the photosensitive drum 107 in the B cartridge, the clutch 150 can rotate between the angular position corresponding to the force take-up and the angular position of the initial engagement (or the angular position of disengagement), as described below, without being locked by the pin 155.
[0074] In particular, projection 150d is adjacent the free end of the recess 150z. The projections (projections) 150d protrude in the direction of intersection with the direction of rotation in which the coupling 150 rotates, and are spaced along the direction of rotation. In this state, in a state in which the insert B is mounted to the main component assembly A, the receiving surfaces 150e mesh or rest on the pin 182, and are pushed by the pin 182.
[0075] In this way, the receiving surfaces 150e absorb rotational force from the drive shaft 180. Furthermore, the receiving surfaces 150e are spaced the same distance from the axis L2, and being a pair with respect to the axis L2 therebetween are formed by a surface running in the direction of the intersection of the projections surface 150d. In addition, reserve parts (cavities) 150k are arranged along the direction of rotation, descending towards the axis L2.
[0076] The reserve portion 150k is created as the space between adjacent projections 150d. In the state in which the insert B is mounted to the main component assembly A, the pin 182 enters the reserve part 150k, and is ready to propel it. With the rotation of the propeller shaft 180, the pin 182 pushes the receiving surface 150e.
[0077] As a result, the clutch 150 rotates.
[0078] A rotational force receiving surface (member (part) for absorbing rotational force) 150e may be located inside the drive shaft mounting surface 150f. Alternatively, the receiving surface 150e may be arranged in a portion protruding from the settling surface 150f outward with respect to the direction of the axis L2. When the receiving surface 150e is within the settlement surface 150f, the reserve portion 150k is within the settlement surface 150f. [0079] In particular, the reserve part 150k is a recess formed between the projections 150d in the inner arcuate portion of the settling surface 150f. Furthermore, when the receiving surface 150e is placed in a place that projects outwardly, the reserve portion 150k forms a recess between the projections 150d. Here, the recess may be a through hole extending in the direction of the L2 axis, or it may be closed at one end. In particular, the cavity is formed by an area of space between the projections 150d. It is only necessary in this case that it is possible to insert the pin 182 in this area in a state in which the insert B is mounted to the main device assembly A.
[0080] These reserve part structures are used similarly to the embodiments described below.
[0081] In Fig. 8 (e), the surfaces receiving the rotational forces (parts transmitting the rotational forces), 150h and (150h1 or 150h2) are in front of the clockwise counting (X1) with an opening of 150g 1 or 150g2. And the rotational force is transmitted to the photosensitive drum 107 from coupling 150 through convection sections 150h1 or 150h2 in contact with any of the pins 155a1, 155a2. In particular, the receiving surfaces 150h1 or 150h2 press against the side surface of pin 155. This causes the clutch 150 to rotate with alignment in its center line with the axis L2. The receiving surface 150h1 or 150h2 is extended in the direction of intersection with the direction of rotation of the coupling 150.
[0082] As with projection 150d, it is desirable to arrange the receiving surfaces 150h1 or 150h2 diametrically opposed on the same circumference.
[0083] During the manufacture of the drum coupling member 150 by injection molding, the coupling portion 150c may become thin; this is because the coupling is manufactured in such a way that the driving force receiving portion 150a, the driving portion 150b and the connecting portion 150C have a substantially uniform thickness. Accordingly, when the rigidity of the connection portion 150c is insufficient, it is possible to make the connection portion 150c of such a thickness that the driven portion 150a, driving portion 150b and connection portion 150c have a substantially equivalent thickness.
(6) Drum support member [0084] The description below, referring to Fig. 9, regarding the drum support member. Fig. 9 (a) is a perspective view of the drive shaft in a side view, and Fig. 9 (b) is a perspective view of the photoconductor drive shaft in a side view.
[0085] The drum support member 157 rotatably supports the photoconductor drum 107 on the second frame 118. In addition, the support member 157 performs the positioning of the second frame assembly 120 in the main device assembly A. In addition, it serves to hold the clutch 150 so that it is possible to transmit rotational force to the photoconductor drum 107.
[0086] As shown in Fig. 9, the coupling portion 157d located at the second frame 118 and the peripheral portion 157c located in the main main unit assembly are generally coaxially arranged. The coupling portion and the peripheral portion 157c are annular. In this case, a clutch 150 is arranged in the space portion 157b within them. The coupling portion 157d and the peripheral portion 157c are provided with a rib 157e for holding the coupling 150 in the cartridge B adjacent to the central portion with respect to the axial direction, the support member 157 has holes 157g1 or 157g2 that pass through the abutment surface 157f, and a mounting screw attaching the support member 157 to the second frame 118. As described below, the guide portion 157a for assembly and disassembly on the insert B relative to the main unit assembly is arranged integrally on the support member 157, (7) Coupling assembly method [0087] A description is provided below based on Fig. 10 - Fig. 16 mounting method of the connector. Fig. 10 (a) is an enlarged view, from the drive side, of the main surface area around the photosensitive drum. FIG. 10 (b) is an enlarged view of the lateral surface of the main part from the non-driven side. Fig. 10 (c) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line S4-S4 in Fig. 10 (a). Figures 11 (a) and (b) are exploded perspective views that show the state prior to attachment of the main components of the second frame assembly. Fig. 11 (c) is a cross-sectional view along (S5-S5 inii in Fig. 11 (a). Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing the condition after attachment. Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view along the line S6-S6 in Fig. 11 (and). Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing the state of rotation of the clutch and photosensitive drum 90 degrees from the state of Fig. 13. Fig. 15 is a perspective view showing the state of connection of the drum and clutch shaft. Figures 15 (al) - (a5) show perspective views from an axial direction from the photosensitive drum, and Figs. 15 (b1) - (b5) show perspective views. Fig. 16 is a perspective view showing the state in which the clutch in the process cartridge is tilted.
[0088] As shown in Fig. 15, the clutch 150 is mounted such that its L2 axis can tilt in any direction relative to the L1 of the drum axis (153 coaxial shaft from the photosensitive drum 107). [0089] In Figs. 15 (a1) and Fig. 15 (b1), the L2 axis of the clutch 150 coincides with the L1 axis of the drum shaft 153. The condition in which the clutch 150 is tilted upwards from this condition is shown in Fig. 15 (a2) and (b2). As shown, when the clutch 150 is inclined toward the bore 150g, the bore 150g moves along the pin 155. As a result, the clutch 150 tilts around axis AX perpendicular to the axis of pin 155.
[0090] Figs. 15 (a3) and (b3) show the state in which the clutch 150 is inclined to the right. As shown in this drawing, when the clutch 150 deviates from the orthogonal direction relative to the bore 150g, the bore 150g rotates around the pin 155. The axis of rotation is the axis AY of the pin 155.
[0091] The condition in which the clutch 150 is tilted down is shown in Figs. 15 (a4) and (b4) and the condition in which the clutch 150 is tilted to the left is shown in Figs. 15 (a5) and (b5). The axes of rotation AX and AY are described above.
[0092] In the directions described above, different from the tilting direction, for example, in the direction of 45 degrees in Fig. 15 (a1), and so on, the slope is by combining rotation in the direction of the axis ΑΧ and in the direction of the axis AY, Yes thus, the L2 axis can be rotated in the direction relative to the L1 axis.
[0093] More specifically, the transmitting surface (rotational force transmitting part) 150h is movable relative to the bolt (rotational force transmitting part) 155. The movable pin 155 has a transmitting surface 150. The transmitting surface 150h and the pin 155 are interlocking in the direction rotation of the clutch 150. In this way, the clutch 150 is mounted to the cartridge. For this purpose, a gap is left between the transfer surface 150h and the pin 155. As a result, the clutch 150 can rotate in virtually all directions relative to the L1 axis.
As described above, the opening 150g is extended at least in the direction (direction of the axis of rotation of the clutch 150) intersecting with the direction of protrusion of the pins 155. Thus, as described above, the clutch 150 can rotate in all directions.
[0095] It has been mentioned that the L2 axis can be angled or tilted in any direction in relation to the L1 axis. However, the L2 axis need not necessarily be linearly set at a certain angle over the full 360 degree direction of the clutch 150. For example, the hole 150g may be made slightly wider in the circumferential direction. In this way, when the L2 axis is tilted relative to the L1 axis, even if this is the case where it cannot deflect linearly upwards at a certain angle, the clutch 150 may rotate slightly around the L2 axis. Therefore, it can be tilted upwards at a certain angle. In other words, if necessary, the amount of clearance in the direction of rotation in the 150g hole is selected accordingly.
[0096] In this way, the clutch 150 can be rotated or tilted substantially around the entire circumference with respect to the drum shaft (rotational force member) 153. In particular the clutch 150 is articulated substantially within its entire circumference with respect to the shaft 153 drum.
[0097] Furthermore, as is apparent from the above explanation, the clutch 150 is able to rotate within the limits of rotation and substantially the circumferential direction of the drum shaft 153. Here, the vortex motion is not a motion by which the clutch itself rotates about the L2 axis, but a motion by which the inclined L2 axis rotates about the L1 axis of the photosensitive drum, although here the vortex motion does not preclude the rotation of the clutch, as such, about the L2 axis of the clutch 150.
[0098] The method for assembling these parts is described below.
[0099] First, in the direction X1 in Fig. 11 (a) and Fig. 11 (b) a drum 107 is installed. At this time, the bearing part 151d of the flange 151 is engaged substantially coaxially with the centering part 118h of the second frame 118. Then bearing hole 152a (see Fig. 7 showing flange 152 (a)) is engaged with centering portion 118g of second frame 118.
[0100] A drum ground drum 154 is inserted in the X2 direction. Then the centering part 154b passes through the bearing hole 152a (Fig. 6b) and the centering hole 118g (Fig. 10 (b)). At this time, the centering part 154b and the bearing hole 152a are supported so that the image drum 107 can rotate. On the other hand, the centering part 154b and the centering hole 118g are held still, e.g. by interference fit. As a result, the photoconductor drum 107 is pivotally supported relative to the second frame. Alternatively, it may be rotatably mounted relative to the flange 152, and the grounding shaft 154 drum (centering portion 154b) may be rotatably mounted to the second frame 118.
[0101] Clutch 150 and support member 157 are inserted in the X3 direction. First, the driving portion 150b is inserted in the direction X3 while maintaining the axis L2 (Fig. 11c) parallel to X3. At the same time, the angular position of the pin 155 and the angular position of the hole 150g are matched to each other, and the pin 155 is inserted into the holes 150g1 or 150g2. The free end portion 153b of the drum shaft 153 is moved against the bearing surface 150Ϊ of the drum. The wax end portion 153b is a spherical surface and the bearing surface 150i of the drum is a conical surface. This means that the drum bearing surface 150i of the conical surface constituting the recess, and the free end portion 153b of the drum shaft 153 which forms a projection, are in contact with each other. Thus, the driving side portion 150b is positioned relative to the free end portion 153b. As described above, when the clutch 150 rotates while transmitting the rotational force from the main component A, the pin 155 located in the bore 150g is pushed through the rotational force transmitting surfaces (rotational force transmitting parts) 150h1 or 150h2 and (Fig. 8b). In this way, the rotational force is transmitted to the photosensitive drum 107. Then the coupling part 157d is inserted in the direction X3. In this way, the coupling portion 150 enters the space portion 157b. The coupling portion 157d supports the support portion 151 d of the flange 151, so that the image drum 107 can rotate. Furthermore, the engagement portion 157d engages with the centering portion 118h of the second frame 118. The abutment surface 157f of the support member 157 contacts the abutment surface 118j of the second frame 118. In this case, screws 158a, 158b pass through holes 157g1 or 157g2, and are fastened in threaded holes 118kl 118k2 of the second frame 118, so that the support member 157 is attached to the second frame 118 (Fig. 12).
[0102] The dimensions of the various parts of the coupling 150 are described below. As shown in Fig. 11 (c), the maximum outer diameter of the driven part 150a is Φϋ2, the maximum outer diameter 150b of the driving part is <t> D1, and the small diameter of the spare hole 150g is ΦΟ3 . Furthermore, the maximum outer diameter of the pin 155 is ΦΟ5, and the inner diameter of the retaining rib 157e of the support member 157 is Φϋ4. Here, the maximum outer diameter is the outer diameter of the maximum pivot area around the L1 axis or the L2 axis. At the same time, because the condition ΦΟ5 <ΦΟ3 is met, the coupling 150 can be mounted in a certain position by a simple assembly operation in the kierunku3 direction, so the assembly quality is high (the state after assembly is shown in Fig. 12). The diameter of the inner surface Φϋ4 of the retaining rib 157e of the support member 157 is greater than Φϋ2 of the coupling 150 and smaller than Φϋ1 (Φϋ2 <Φ04 <Φ01). In this way, the joining step in the X3 direction is sufficient to mount the support member 157 in a certain position. This allows the quality of the assembly to be improved (the state after assembly is shown in Fig. 12).
[0103] As shown in Fig. 12, the locating rib 157e of the support member 157 is positioned close to the flange portion 150] of the coupling 150 towards the axis L1. More specifically, towards the L1 axis, the distance from the end surface 150j1 of the flange portion 150j to the L4 axis of the pin 155 is n1. In addition, the distance from the end surface 157el of the rib 157e to the second end surface 157j2 of the flange portion 150j is n2. The condition that distance n2 <distance n1 is met.
[0104] Furthermore, with respect to the direction perpendicular to the axis L1, the flange portion 150j and the rib 157e are arranged such that they overlap each other. More specifically, the distance n4 from the inner surface 157e3 of the rib 157e to the outer surface 150J3 of the flange portion 150j is a measure of n4 overlap relative to the direction perpendicular to the axis L1.
[0105] Thanks to such settings, the pin 155 is secured against detachment from the hole 150g. This means that the movement of the clutch 150 is limited by the support member 157. Thus, the clutch 150 does not detach from the cartridge. Disconnection protection can be implemented without additional parts. The dimensions described above are desirable from the point of view of reducing production and assembly costs. However, the present invention is not limited to these dimensions.
[0106] As described above (Fig. 10 (c) and Fig. 13), the receiving surface 150i, which is the recess 150q of the coupling 150, is in contact with the free end surface 153b of the drum shaft 153 which is a projection. Therefore, the clutch 150 moves in a swinging motion along the free end portion (spherical surface) 153B around the center P2 of the free end portion (spherical surface) 153b, in other words, the L2 axis is swinging in virtually all directions regardless of the shaft phase 153 drum. As described later, in order to allow the clutch 150 to engage with the propeller shaft 180, the L2 axis is inclined in the direction of assembly of the B cartridge relative to the L1 axis just before meshing. In other words, as shown in Fig. 16, the L2 axis tilts so that the driven part 150a is positioned on the side in the direction of assembly X4 relative to the L1 axis of the photosensitive drum (drum shaft 153). In fig. 16 (a) - (c), although the positions of the driven part 150a differ slightly from each other, in each case they are located on the side in the direction X4 of the attachment.
[0107] A more detailed description is provided below.
[0108] As shown in Fig. 12, the distance n3, between the part with the maximum outside diameter and the support member 157 of the driving part 150b is selected such that there is a small gap between them. Due to this, as already described above, the clutch 150 is articulated. [0109] As shown in Fig. 9, the rib 157e is a half-round rib. The rib 157e is in the direction of the X4 of the assembly of the insert B. This is shown in Fig. 10 (c), where the side of the driven part 150a of the L2 axis can deviate significantly in the X4 direction. In other words, the side of the drive part 150b of the L2 axis can deviate significantly in the direction of angle a3) in a position (Fig. 9 (a) in which the rib 157e is not arranged. Fig. 10 (c) shows the state in which the L2 axis is In addition, it can also be rotated from the state with the inclined axis L2, shown in Fig. 10 (c), to a position substantially parallel to the axis L1, in which it is shown in Fig. 13. This is how rib 157e is placed. This allows the coupling 150 to be easily mounted on the B cartridge. In addition, in addition to the fact that the drum shaft 153 may be stopped in some phase, the L2 axis is rotatable relative to the L1 axis. A rib is not just a semicircular rib. If the clutch 150 can rotate in a certain direction, and it is possible to mount the clutch 150 to cartridge B (photoconductor 107), any rib is useful. In this way, the rib 157e functions as an adjustment means to regulate the direction of the heel of the clutch 150.
[0110] Furthermore, the distance n2 (Fig. 12) towards the axis L1, from the rib 157e to the flange portion 150j is smaller than the distance n1 of the center from the pin 155 to the lateral driving portion 150b. Thanks to this, the spindle 155 does not detach from the 150g hole.
[0111] As described above, the clutch 150 is supported substantially by both drum shaft 153 and drum carrier member 157. In particular, the clutch 150 is substantially attached to the cartridge B through a drum shaft 153 and a drum support member 157.
[0112] The clutch 150 has some clearance (distance n2) in the direction of the axis L1 relative to the drum shaft 153. Therefore, the receiving surface 150i (conical surface) must not come into direct contact with the free end portion of the drum shaft 153b (spherical surface). In other words, the center of rotation with fluctuations may differ from the center P2 of the curvature of the spherical surface. Even in this case, however, the L2 axis is oscillating with respect to the L1 axis. As a result, the goal of this implementation can be achieved thanks to this.
[0113] Furthermore, the maximum possible angle α4 (Fig. 10 (c)) between axis L1 and axis L2 is equal to half the cone angle (ai, Figure 8 (f)) between axis L2 and the receiving surface 150i. The receiving surface 150i has a conical shape and the drum shaft 153 has a cylindrical shape. For this reason, an angular value of a1 / 2 exists between them. The angle of the cone a1 changes here, and therefore the angle of inclination a4 of the coupling 150 is set to the optimum value. In this way, since the receiving surface 150i is a conical surface, the round portion 153a of the drum shaft column 153 may have a straight cylindrical shape. In other words, the drum shaft does not need to have a complicated configuration, This reduces the cost of machining the drum shaft.
[0114] Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 10 (c), when the clutch 150 is deflected, the clutch portion (omitted in the figure) can be replaced by a portion of space 151e (flange hatching 151). As a result, the relief cutout of the gear part 151c (space part 151e) can be used without deterioration. Therefore, it is possible to use space efficiently. By the way, the relief cutout of the gear part 151 c (space part 151e) is usually not used.
[0115] As described above, in the embodiment of Fig. 10 (c), the clutch 150 is mounted such that the clutch part 150 can be in a position that overlaps the gear part 151c with respect to the direction of the axis L2. In the case of a flange that does not have a gear portion 151c, the coupling portion 150 may further extend into cylinder 107a.
[0116] When the axis L2 is tilted, the width of the opening 150g is selected taking into account the size of the pin 155 so that the pin 155 cannot interfere.
[0117] More specifically, the transmission surface (rotational force transmitting part) 150h is movable relative to the pin 155 (rotational force transmitting part). The pin 155 has a movable transfer surface 150. The transfer surface 150h and the pin 155 are connected to each other in the direction of rotation 150 of the clutch. In this way, the clutch 150 is mounted in the cartridge. To achieve this, a gap is left between the transfer surface 150h and the pin 155. As a result, the clutch 150 can rotate in virtually all directions relative to the L1 axis.
[0118] The arrangement of the flange portion 150j when the driven side 150a is inclined in the kierunku5 direction is shown in the area T1 in Fig. 14. As shown in the drawing, even if the clutch 150 is inclined, no collision with the pin 155 occurs, and therefore, the flange portion 150j can be arranged around the entire circumference of the coupling 150 (Fig. 8 (b)). In other words, the receiving surface 150i of the shaft has a conical shape, and therefore, when the clutch 150 is inclined, the pin 155 does not enter the area T1. For this reason, the dead band of the coupling 150 is minimized. Accordingly, adequate coupling rigidity 150 can be ensured.
[0119] In the assembly method described above, the process (non-drive side) in the X2 direction and the process (drive side) in the X3 direction can be interchanged.
[0120] Support member 157 has been described as being bolted on the second frame 118. However, the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, if the support member 157 is attached to the second frame 118, for example by welding, any welding method can be used.
(8) Drive shaft and driving structure of the main device assembly [0121] Below, with reference to Fig. 17, a description is provided of the structure for driving the photoconductor 107 in the main device A. Fig. 17 (a) is a partial exploded side perspective view driving side plates, in a state in which the B insert is not mounted in the main device assembly A. Fig. 17 (b) is a perspective view that only shows the structure for driving the photoconductor 107. Fig. 17 (c) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line S7-S7 in Fig. 17 (b).
[0122] The drive shaft 180 has a substantially similar structure to the drum shaft 153 described above. In other words, the free end portion 180b forms a semi-spherical surface. In addition, it has a pin 182 as the rotational force transmitting main part 180a having a cylindrical shape that substantially extends inside. The rotational force is transmitted via this pin 182 to clutch 150.
[0123] The drum driving gear 181, substantially coaxial with the propeller shaft 180, is located on the longitudinally opposite side of the free end portion 180b of the propeller shaft 180, The gear wheel 181 is non-rotatable with respect to the propeller shaft 180. Thus, the rotational movement of the gear wheel 181 also rotates the propeller shaft 180.
[0124] Furthermore, the gear 181 is coupled to the gear shaft 187 to receive a rotational force from the motor 186. In this regard, the rotational movement of the motor 186 causes the shaft 180 to rotate via the gear 181.
[0125] Furthermore, the gear 181 is pivotally attached to the main component A by the support members 183, 184. At this time, the gear 181 does not move relative to the direction of the axis L3 of the drive shaft 180 (gear 181), i.e. set relative to the direction of the L3 axis. In this regard, gears 181 and support members 183 and 184 may be arranged close to each other with respect to the axial direction. Furthermore, the drive shaft 180 does not move in the direction of the L3 axis. Thus, the drive shaft 180 and the gap between the support members 183 and 184 have dimensions that allow the drive shaft 180 to rotate. Thus, the position of the gear 181 relative to the diametrically opposite gear position 187 is correctly determined.
[0126] Furthermore, although it has been written that the drive is transmitted to the gear 181 directly from the gear 187, the present invention is not limited to such an example. For example, due to the engine located in main component A, it is possible to use a gear assembly. Alternatively, it is possible to transfer the rotational force by, for example, a belt.
(9) Main component side mounting guide for guiding the B cartridge.
[0127] As shown in Figs. 18 and 19, the fastening means 130 according to this embodiment includes the main mounting guides 130R1, 130R2, 130L1 130L2, located in main device assembly A.
[0128] They are placed opposite both side surfaces of the mounting space (installation section 130a for the insert) located in the main device assembly (side surface in Fig. 18) (side surface of the non-driving side in Fig. 19). The main mounting guides 130R1, 130R2 are located in the main unit assembly opposite the driving side of the B cartridge, and run along the mounting direction of the B cartridge. On the other hand, the main mounting guides 130L1, 130L2 are located on the main side of the assembly, opposite the non-driven side of the B cartridge, and run along the mounting direction of the B cartridge. The main mounting guides 130R1,
130R2 and the main mounting guides 130L1, 130L2 are opposite each other. When mounting cartridge B of the main component A cassette, these guides 130R1, 130R2, 130L1, 130L2 guide the cartridge as described below. When mounting the cartridge B to the main component assembly, the cartridge door 109, which can be opened and closed around the shaft 109a relative to the main component assembly A, is open. Assembly of the insert to the main component A ends by closing the door 109. When removing the insert B from the main component A, the door 109 is open. These operations are performed by the user.
(10) Part positioning the cartridge B, relative to the mounting guide and main assembly unit A [0129] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, in this embodiment, the outer periphery 157a of the outer end of the support member 157 also acts as the guide 140R1. In addition, the outer rim 154a of the outer end of the drum grounding shaft 154 also functions as the cartridge guide 140L1.
[0130] Furthermore, one longitudinal end (driving side) of the second frame assembly 120 is provided with the cartridge guide 140R2 on the top of the cartridge guide 140R1. The other end (on the non-driven side) in the longitudinal direction is provided with the insert guide 140L2 on the upper part of the insert guide 140L2.
[0131] More specifically, one longitudinal end of the photoconductor 107 is equipped with cartridge side guides 140R1, 140R2 extending outwardly from the cartridge frame B1. In addition, the other end in longitudinal direction is provided with side guides 140L1 140L2 extending outwardly from the frame B1 of the cartridge. The guides 140R1, 140R2, 140L1, 140L2 protrude in the longitudinal direction, both ways out. More precisely, the guides 140R1, 140R2, 140L1, 140L2 protrude from the frame B1 of the cartridge along the axis L1. And, when assembling insert B to main component A, and when disassembling cartridge B of main component A, the guide 140R1 is guided by the guide 130R1 and the guide 140R2 is guided by the guide 130R2. In addition, during assembly of the B insert to the main assembly unit A and during the disassembly of the B insert from the main assembly unit the guide 140L1 is guided by the guide 130L1 and the guide 140L2 is guided by the guide 130L2, In this way, the B cartridge is mounted in the main unit A, moving in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction L3 of the propeller shaft 180, and is similarly disassembled from the main component assembly A. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the cartridge guides 140R1, 140R2 are integrally formed with the second frame 118. However, separate members may be used as cartridge guides 140R1, 140R2.
(11) Process insert assembly operation [0132] The following describes, with reference to Fig. 20, the operations of mounting the insert B in the main device assembly A. Fig. 20 shows the assembly process. Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line S9-S9 in Fig. 18.
[0133] As shown in Fig. 20 (a), the door 109 is opened by the user. The insert B is then mounted, with the option of being removed from the insert attachment means 130 in the main unit A (installation section 130a).
[0134] During mounting of cartridge B, main device assembly A, on the drive side, the cartridge guides 140R1, 140R2 are inserted along the major mounting guides 130R1, 130R2, as shown in Fig. 20 (B). In addition, also on the non-driven side, along the main mounting guides 130L1 130L2 (Fig. 19) are inserted guides 140L1, 140L2 of the cartridge (Fig. 3).
[0135] When the insert B is further inserted in the direction of arrow X4, engagement between the drive shaft 180 and the insert B occurs, and then the insert B is mounted (loaded) in a certain position (installation section 130a). In other words, as shown in Fig. 20 (c), the cartridge guide 140R1 contacts the positioning portion 130R for the main mounting guide 130R1 and the cartridge guide 140R2 contacts the positioning portion 130R2a of the main mounting guide 130R2. In addition, the cartridge guide 140L1 contacts the positioning portion 130L1a (Fig. 19) of the main mounting guide 130L1, and the cartridge guide 140L2 contacts the positioning portion 130L2a of the main assembly guide 130L2, and because this condition is substantially symmetrical, no appropriate illustration is provided. In this way, the insert B is mounted removable in the installation section 130a by means of fastening means 130. In particular, the insert B is mounted in the state of being placed in the main device assembly A. In this state, in which the insert δ is mounted to the installation section 130a, the drive shaft 180 and the coupling 150 are in a state of mutual engagement.
[0136] In particular, the clutch 150 is in an angular position for transmitting rotational force, as described later.
[0137] Mounting the insert B in the installation section 130a enables the image creation operation.
[0138] When the cartridge B is in a fixed position, the biasing portion 140R1b of the receptor (Fig. 2) of the cartridge B is subjected to a tensioning force from the pushing spring 188R (Fig. 18, Fig. 19 and Fig. 20). In addition, biasing force 140L1b of the receptor B is subjected to a biasing force from the pushing spring 188L (Fig. 3). This causes the cartridge B (photoconductor 107) to be correctly positioned relative to the transfer roller, optical means, and the like, of the main component assembly A.
[0139] The user may insert insert B into the installation section 130a, as described above. Alternatively, the user inserts cartridge B halfway, and the last assembly operation can be performed by other means. For example, when using the closing operation of the door 109, a portion of the door 109 acts on the insert B, which is in the process of being installed, moving the insert B to its final mounted position. In addition, alternatively, the user pushes the insert B in and allows it to fall into the installation section 130a under its own weight.
[0140] Here, as shown in Figs. 18-20, the assembly and disassembly of the B insert in the main unit A takes place by moving in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis L3 of the propeller shaft 180 (Fig. 21), according to these operations, wherein the alignment of the propeller shaft 180 and clutch 150 varies between engaged and disengaged.
[0141] The following is an explanation of the term "substantially perpendicular".
[0142] Small gaps were left between cartridge B and main device assembly A to facilitate the smooth assembly and disassembly of cartridge B. In addition, in particular, small gaps occur between the guide 140R1 and the guide 130R1 with respect to the longitudinal direction, and between the guide 140R2 and the guide 130R2, between the guide 140L1 and the guide 130L1 with respect to the longitudinal direction, and between the guide 140L2 and the guide 130L2 with respect to the longitudinal direction. longitudinal direction. Therefore, during assembly and disassembly of the B cartridge into the main unit device, the whole B cartridge may be slightly inclined within the slots relative to the main component A. Because of this, there is no strict perpendicularity. Even so, however, the implementation of the present invention proceeds efficiently. In this regard, the term "substantially perpendicular" includes the case in which the cartridge is slightly inclined.
(12) Clutch engagement operations and transmission [0143] As stated above, immediately before or substantially simultaneously with placing in a predetermined position of the main component A, the clutch 150 is coupled to the propeller shaft 180. In particular, the clutch 150 is positioned in angular position for transmitting force. Here, the designated location is installation section 130a. Below, referring to fig. 21, 22, and 23, description is provided about the engagement of this clutch. Fig. 21 is a perspective view that shows a substantial portion of the drive shaft and the driving side of the cartridge. Fig. 22 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view from the bottom of the main component assembly. Fig. 23 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view from the bottom of the main component assembly. Here, meshing means a state in which the L2 axis and the L3 axis substantially coincide and power transmission is possible.
[0144] As shown in Fig. 22, the cartridge B is mounted in the main device assembly A in the direction (arrow X4) substantially perpendicular to the axis L3 of the drive shaft 180. It is also in a state of dismantling from the main device assembly. In the angular position of the pre-meshing, the L2 axis (Fig. 22) of the clutch 150 is previously inclined in the direction corresponding to the X4 direction of the L1 axis (Fig. 22 (a)) of the drum shaft 153 (Fig. 21 and Fig. 22 (a).
[0145] For earlier tilting of the coupling towards the angular position of the pre-meshing, for example, a structure according to embodiments 3-9, described below, is used.
[0146] Due to the inclination of the coupling 150, the distal relative to the mounting direction X4 the free end 150A1 is closer to the photosensitive drum 107 than the free end of the drive shaft 180b3 towards the axis L1. In addition, the free end 150A2 opposite the mounting direction is closer to the pin 182 than the free end of the drive shaft 180b3 (Fig. 22 (a), (b)). Here, the free end position is the closest position to the propeller shaft shown in Fig. 8 (a) and (c) of the driving part 150a with respect to the direction of the axis L2, and this is the position furthest from the axis L2. In other words, it is the edge line of the driven part 150a of the clutch 150, or the skew edge of the projection 150d, depending on the phase of rotation of the clutch 150 (150A) in Figs. 8 (a) and (c).
[0147] The free end position 150A1 of the 150 coupling passes the free end 180b3 of the propeller shaft. In this case, when the clutch 150 passes past the free end 180b3 of the propeller shaft, the mounting surface (contact side from the cartridge side) 150f or the projection (contact side from the cartridge side) 150d contacts the free end portion 180b of the propeller shaft 180 (the engagement part on the side of the assembly main), or with a pin (the interlocking part on the side of the main unit) 182 (the part receiving the rotational force). According to the cartridge mounting operation (B), the L2 axis is inclined so that it can be substantially aligned with the L1 axis (Fig. 22 (c)). In this case, when the clutch 150 deviates from the aforesaid angular position of the meshing and the axis L2 is substantially aligned with the axis L1, an angular position of the transmission of rotational force is achieved. And, finally, the location of the insert (B) relative to the main unit assembly (A) is determined. Here, the drive shaft 180 and the drum shaft 153 are substantially coaxial to each other. In addition, the mounting surface 150f is opposite the spherical portion 180b of the free end of the propeller shaft 180. This condition is the meshing state between the clutch 150 and the propeller shaft 180 (Fig. 21 (b) and Fig. 22 (d)). At this time, the pin 155 (not shown) is placed in the hole 150g (Fig. 8 (b)). in other words, pin 182 uses a spare part 150k. Here, the coupling 150 covers the free end portion 180B.
[0148] The settling surface 150f is a recess 150z. The recess 150z has a conical shape.
[0149] As described above, the clutch 150 can rotate relative to the L1 axis. And, according to the movement of the insert (B), the coupling part 150 (settling surface 150f and / or projections 150D), which is the contact part on the insert side, contacts the interlocking part on the main assembly side (drive shaft 180 and / or pin 182) . As a result, the clutch 150 rotates. As shown in Fig. 22, the clutch 150 is mounted in a state of overlap, with respect to the direction of the axis L1, on the propeller shaft 180. However, the clutch 150 and the propeller shaft 180 may be coupled with each other in a swinging motion of the clutches as described above.
[0150] The mounting operation of the coupling 150 described above may be carried out independently of the phases of the drive shaft 180 and the coupling 150, The following is a detailed description with reference to Fig. 15 and Fig.
23. Fig. 23 shows the phase relationship between the clutch and the propeller shaft. In Fig. 23 (a), at a location in the direction X4 of mounting the cartridge, the pin 182 and the mounting surface 150f face each other. In Fig. 23 (b), the pin 182 and projection 150d are facing each other. In Fig. 23 (c), the free end portion 180b and projection 150d are facing each other. In Fig. 23 (d), the free end portion 180b and retaining surface 150f face each other.
[0151] As shown in Fig. 15, the clutch 150 is mounted with the ability to deflect in any direction relative to the drum shaft 153. In particular, the clutch 150 can rotate. Accordingly, as shown in Fig. 23, it can be inclined in the X4 direction, regardless of the drum shaft phase 153 relative to the X4 direction of the cartridge assembly (B). In addition, the angle of inclination of the clutch 150 is set such that, regardless of the phases of the propeller shaft 180 and the clutch 150, the free end position 150A1 is closer to the photoconductive drum 107 than the axial free end 180b3, relative to the direction of the L1 axis. In addition, the angle of inclination of the clutch 150 is set so that the position of the free end 150A2 is closer to the pin 182 than the free end 180b3 of the axle. With this arrangement, corresponding to the insert mounting operation (B), the free end position 150A1 extends beyond the free end axial position 180b3 in the X4 assembly direction. And, in the case of Fig. 23 (a), the mounting surface 150f contacts the bolt 182. According to Fig. 23 (b), the projection (coupling portion) 150d contacts the bolt 182 (rotating portion). In Fig. 23 (c), the projection 150d contacts the end portion 180b. In the case of figs 23 (d), the landing surface 150f contacts the end portion 180b. In addition, under the pressure force that occurs when mounting the insert (B), the L2 axis of the clutch 150 moves so that it is aligned substantially with the L1 axis. In this way, the coupling 150 is coupled to the drive shaft 180. In particular, the coupling recess 150z includes an end portion 180b. For this reason, the clutch 150 may be coupled to the propeller shaft 180 (pin 182) regardless of the phase of the propeller shaft 180, clutch 150 and shaft drum 153.
[0152] Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 22, there is a gap between the drum shaft 153 and the coupling 150 so that the coupling can swing (rotate, swing).
[0153] In this embodiment, the clutch 150 moves in the plane of the drawing sheet in Fig. 22. However, the clutch 150 according to this embodiment can rotate as described above. In this regard, the movement of the clutch 150 may include movement not performed in the plane of the drawing sheet of Figure 22. In this case, there is a transition from the state of Figure 22 (a) to the state of Figure 22 (d). This also applies to the embodiments described below, unless otherwise indicated.
[0154] In the following, the operation of transmitting rotational force while rotating the drum 107 is described based on Fig. 24. The drive shaft 180 rotates with the gear 181 in the direction (Fig. X8) under the action of the rotational force taken from the drive source (engine 186) . At the same time, the pin 182, integral with the propeller shaft 180 (182a1, 182a2), comes into contact with one of the surfaces 150e1-150e4 that absorb rotational force (parts that absorb rotational force). More precisely, one of the surfaces 150e1-150e4 receiving the rotational force contacts the pin 182a1. In addition, pin 182a2 is in contact with any of the surfaces 150e1-150e4 that receive rotational force. As a result, the rotational force of the propeller shaft 180 is transmitted to the clutch 150, causing the clutch 150 to rotate. In addition, when the clutch rotates 150, the surfaces 150h1 or 150h2 of the clutch 150 transmitting rotational force (the part transmitting the rotational force) contact the pin 155, integral with the drum shaft 153. This causes the rotational force of the propeller shaft 180 to be transmitted to the photosensitive drum 107 through the clutch 150, rotational surface 150h1 or 150h2, pin 155, drum shaft 153, and drum flange 151. This way the drum 107 is rotated.
[0155] In the angular position of the rotational force transmission, the free end portion 153B contacts the receiving surface 150i. In this case, the free end portion (positioning portion) 180b of the drive shaft 180 contacts the receiving surface (positioning portion) 150f. In this case, the clutch 150 is positioned above the propeller shaft 180 relative to the propeller shaft 180 (Fig. 22 (d)).
[0156] In the present embodiment, even if the L3 axis and the L1 axis deviate slightly from the linearity, the clutch 150 may affect the flow of rotational force because the clutch 150 deflects slightly. Even if this is the case, the clutch 150 can rotate without covering a large additional load on the drum shaft 153 and drive shaft 180. Therefore, it is easy to perform operations, while maintaining high precision, positioning the drive shaft 180 and shaft 153 during assembly. It is also possible to improve the assembly speed.
[0157] This is also one of the effects of this implementation.
[0158] Furthermore, in Fig. 17, as described, the positions of the drive shaft 180 and the gear wheel 181 are arranged in a particular configuration relative to the diameter direction and the axial direction (installation section 130a) of the main assembly unit (A). Furthermore, the insert (B) is located in a fixed location of the main device assembly, as described above. In this case, the drive shaft 180 positioned in said predetermined position, and the cartridge (B) positioned in a predetermined position are connected by means of a clutch 150. The clutch 150 is oscillating relative to the photosensitive drum 107. For this reason, as described above , the clutch 150 can transmit rotational force smoothly between the drive shaft 180 in a certain position and the cartridge (B) in a specific position. In other words, even if there is some axial deviation between the drive shaft 180 and the photoconductor 107, the clutch 150 can transmit the rotational force smoothly.
[0159] This is also one of the effects of this implementation.
[0160] Furthermore, as described above, the cartridge (B) is positioned in a fixed location. For this reason, the image drum 107, which is part of the cartridge (B), is correctly positioned relative to the main device assembly (A). Therefore, the spatial relationships between the photoconductor 107 and the optical means 101, transfer roller 104 or registration material 102 can be maintained with high precision. In other words, these distribution deviations can be reduced.
[0161] The clutch 150 makes contact with the propeller shaft 180. In this way, although, as mentioned, the clutch 150 deviates from the initial angular engagement position to the angular transmission force position, the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, it is possible to use the contacting part as the coupling part of the main component assembly in a position other than on the drive shaft of the main component assembly. In the process of assembling the cartridge (B), after passing the free end position 150A1 through the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft, the coupling portion 150 (the contact portion from the cartridge side) contacts this stop portion. As a result, the clutch can absorb force from the pivoting direction (direction of rotation), and can also be made with the possibility of pivoting (pendulum motion) so that the axis L2 becomes substantially aligned with the axis of rotation L3. In other words, additional resources are sufficient if, during the installation of the insert (B), the L1 axis can be in a position substantially aligned with the L3 axis.
(13) Clutch disengagement operation and cartridge removal operation [0162] In the following, with reference to Fig. 25, the operation of disengaging the clutch 150 with the drive shaft 180 is described, when removing the cassette (B) from the main assembly (A). Fig. 25 is a cross-sectional view from below of the main component unit.
[0163] The position of the pin 182 when removing the insert (B) was first described. After the image creation is complete, as is clear from the above description, the pin 182 is located in any two spare spare parts 150k1-150k4 (Fig. 8). At the same time, the pin 155 is placed in the hole 150g1 or 150g2.
[0164] The description is given in relation to disengaging the clutch 150 from the propeller shaft 180 in connection with the operation of removing the cartridge (B).
[0165] As shown in Fig. 25, the container (B) is pulled out in the direction (in the direction of arrow X6) substantially perpendicular to the axis L3, during dismantling from the main assembly unit (A). [0166] In a state after the drive of the drum shaft 153 is stopped, the L2 axis is substantially aligned with the L1 axis in the coupling 150 (in the angular position of the rotational force) (Fig. 25 (a)). In this case, the drum shaft 153 extends in the disassembly direction X6 from the cartridge (B), and the receiving surface 150f or the projections 150d, in the direction away from the coupling 150, opposite to the disassembly direction, touches at least the wound end portion 180b of the drive shaft 180 ( Fig. 25 (a)). In addition, the L2 axis starts tilting in the opposite direction to the X6 disassembly direction (Fig. 25 (b)). This direction is the same as when tilting the clutch 150 when installing the insert (B) (at the angular position of the pre-meshing). It moves while the free end portion A3 A3 located in the direction of disassembly direction X6 contacts the free end portion 180b during the removal operation of the cartridge (B) from the main assembly unit (A). More specifically, according to the displacement direction of the cartridge (B), while the coupling portion 150 (retaining surface 150f and / or 150d of the projections), which is the contact portion on the cartridge side, contacts the coupling portion on the side
- 30 main assembly unit (drive shaft 180 ί / or pin 182), the clutch moves. In this case, in the axis L2, the free end portion 150A3 inclines to the free end 180b3 (angular disconnection position) (Fig. 25 (c)). In this condition, the clutch 150 passes with the propeller shaft 180, making contact with its free end 180b3, and is disengaged from the propeller shaft 180 (Fig. 25 (d)). Then the container (B) undergoes the reverse process in relation to the assembly process described on the basis of Fig. 20, and is removed from the main unit assembly (A).
[0167] As can be seen from the above description, the angle at initial engagement with the L1 axis is greater than the angle with the L1 axis in the disengaged position. This is because it is advantageous if the position 150A1 of the end portion reliably passes the end portion 180b3 in the angular position of the pre-toothing, taking into account the dimensional tolerance of the elements at the time of engagement of the clutch. More specifically, it is preferred that in the angular position of the pre-meshing there is a gap between the clutch 150 and the free end portion 180b3 (Fig. 22 (b)). On the contrary, when disengaging the clutch, the L2 axis tilts in conjunction with the removal operation of the skid in the disengaged angular position. Therefore, the 150A3 clutch moves along the free end portion 180b3. In other words, the clutch part in the disassembly direction of the cartridge and the free end portion of the drive shaft are in substantially the same position (fig, 25 (c)). For this reason, corresponding to the angular position of the pre-meshing, the angle relative to the L1 axis is greater than the angle corresponding to the angular position of the disengagement relative to the L1 axis.
[0168] Furthermore, as with mounting the insert (B) to the main component assembly (A), the insert (B) can be removed regardless of the phase difference between the clutch 150 and the pin 182.
[0169] As shown in Fig. 22, in the angular position of the clutch 150 corresponding to the transmission of rotational force, the angle of the clutch 150 relative to the axis L1 is such that in a state in which the insert (B) is installed in the main unit assembly (A ), the clutch 150 takes over the transmission of rotational force from the propeller shaft 180, and rotates.
[0170] The rotational force for rotating the photosensitive drum is transmitted to the drum in the angular position of the clutch 150 corresponding to the transmission of the rotational force.
[0171] Furthermore, in the angular position of the clutch 150 corresponding to its initial engagement, the angular position of the clutch 150 relative to the axis L1 corresponds to the state immediately before the clutch 150 engages with the propeller shaft 180 in the assembly operation of the insert (B) to the main assembly (A) . In particular, it is an angular position relative to the L1 axis in which the front, relative to the mounting direction of the insert (B), free end portion 150A1 of the clutch 150 may pass with the drive shaft 180.
[0172] Furthermore, the angular disengagement position of the clutch 150 is the angular position relative to the L1 axis of the clutch 150 when removing the insert (B) from the main assembly (A) in which the clutch 150 disengages from the propeller shaft 180. In particular, as this is shown in Fig. 25, this is an angular position relative to the axis L1 in which the free end portion 150A3 of the clutch 150 may pass with the drive shaft 180 with respect to the removal direction of the cartridge (B).
[0173] In the angular position of the pre-engagement or the disengagement angle, the theta angle 2 that the L2 axis forms with the axis L1 is greater than the angle 1 theta which the L2 axis forms with the axis L1 in the angular position of the rotational force. As for theta angle 1, 0 degrees is preferred. However, in this embodiment, if the theta angle 1 is less than about 15 degrees, a smooth transmission of rotational force takes place. This is also one of the effects of this implementation. As for theta 2 angle, a value in the range of about 20-60 degrees is preferred.
[0174] As described above, the clutch is mounted pivotally relative to the L1 axis. In this case, the clutch 150, in the state in which it overlaps the propeller shaft 180, with respect to the direction of the axis L1 can be disengaged from the propeller shaft 180, because the clutch tilts according to the removal operation of the insert (B), In particular, by moving the insert ( B) in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the propeller shaft 180, the clutch 150 that covers the propeller shaft 180 can be disengaged from the propeller shaft 180.
[0175] In the description described above, the mounting surface 150f of the coupling 150 or projection 150d contacts the wax of the end portion 180b (pin 182) in reciprocal relationship with the movement of the cartridge (B) in the direction of disassembly X6. Thus, it is described that the L1 axis starts to tilt in the opposite direction to the disassembly direction. However, the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, the clutch 150 is provided with a structured structure in advance so that it is pressed in the opposite direction to the dismantling direction. At the same time, depending on the movement of the insert (B), the initial pressure force begins to tilt the L1 axis in the direction of disassembly. In addition, the free end 150A3 passes the free end 180b3 and the coupling 150 detaches from the propeller shaft 180, in other words, the retaining surface 150f on the opposite side to the disassembly direction, or the projection 150d does not contact the free end portion 180b, and thus may be disconnected from the propeller shaft 180. Therefore, if the L1 axis can be tilted in connection with the removal operation of the cartridge (B), any structure can be used.
[0176] At the time just before mounting the clutch 150 on the drive shaft 180, the driven part of the clutch 150 is tilted so that it tilts in the direction of assembly, in other words, the clutch 150 is previously brought to a state with an angular position of pre-meshing.
[0177] The above describes the plane movement of the drawing sheet of Fig. 25, but the movement may include a swirling motion, as in the case of Fig. 22.
[0178] As to the corresponding structure, it is possible to use any structure described in embodiment 2 et seq.
[0179] In the following, with reference to Figs. 26 and 27, a description of another embodiment of the drum shaft is given. Fig. 26 is a perspective view adjacent to the drum shaft. Fig. 27 shows the characteristic part.
[0180] In the embodiment described above, the free end of the drum shaft 153 is shaped as a spherical surface, and the coupling 150 is in contact with the spherical surface. However, as shown in Figs. 26 (a) and 27 (a), the free end 1153b of drum shaft 1153 may be a flat surface. In this embodiment, the edge portion 1153c of its peripheral surface contacts the conical surface of the coupling 150 through which rotational motion is transmitted. Even with this arrangement, the L2 axis can be reliably tilted relative to the L1 axis. In this implementation, no machining of the spherical surface is necessary. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the machining cost.
[0181] In the above-described embodiment, another rotational force shaft is mounted on the drum shaft. However, as shown in Figs. 26 (b) and 27 (b), it is possible to form drum shaft 1253 and pin 1253c integrally. In this case, integral molding is carried out by injection molding, etc., and a high degree of freedom in geometric forming is obtained. In this case, the pin 1253c may be integrally formed with the drum wool 1253. For this reason, it is possible to use a large area of the drive transmission part 1253d. Thus, the working torque can be reliably transmitted to the drum shaft made of resin. In addition, production costs are reduced by using integral molding.
[0182] As shown in Figs. 26 (c) and 27 (c), the opposing ends 1355a1, 1355a2 of the rotational force transmitting bolt 1355 (the rotational force adopting member) are previously fixed by interference fit etc. in the spare bore 1350g1 or 1350g2 1350. Next, it is possible to insert a drum shaft 1353 that has a free end portion 1353c1, 1353c2, shaped as a (internal) thread with an intersection. At the same time, to provide oscillation of the clutch 1350, the engagement portion 1355b of the pin 1355, relative to the free end portion (not shown) of the drum shaft 1353, is formed into a spherical shape. Thus, the pin 1355 (the part exerting a rotational force) is mounted earlier. This makes it possible to reduce the bore size 1350g of the 1350 coupling. Thus, the rigidity of the 1350 coupling can be increased.
[0183] Above is described a structure in which the slope of the L1 axis is made along the free end of the drum shaft. However, as shown in Figs. 26 (d), 26 (e), and 27 (d), it is possible to tilt along the contact surface 1457a of the contact member 1457 on the shaft axis 1453 of the drum. In this case, the surface 1453b of the free end of the shaft 1453 drum has a height comparable to that of the end surface of the contact member 1457. In addition, the force transmitting bolt (rotational force member) 1453c protruding beyond the free end surface 1453b is inserted into the auxiliary bore 1450g of the clutch 1450. The pin 1453c is in contact with the rotational force transmission surface (the part transmitting the force) 1450h of the clutch 1450. As a result, rotational force is transmitted to the drum 107. In this case, the contact surface 1457a is provided with a contact member 1457 when the coupling 1450 is pivoted. Thanks to this, there is no need to machine the drum shaft directly. Therefore, the cost of machining can be reduced. [0184] Furthermore, similarly, the spherical surface at the free end may be a resin molded part of a separate member. In this case, the cost of machining the shaft can be reduced, and this is because the configuration of the machined shaft, etc., can be simplified. In addition, when the range of the spherical surface at the axial free end is limited, the range requiring high machining accuracy may be small. Thanks to this, it is possible to reduce machining costs.
[0185] In the following, with reference to Fig. 28, another embodiment of the drive shaft is described. Fig. 28 is a perspective view of the drive shaft and drum driving gear.
[0186] First, as shown in Fig. 28 (a), the free end of drive shaft 1180 is made with a flat surface 1180b. Thanks to this, because the shaft configuration is simple, it is possible to reduce the machining cost.
[0187] In addition, as shown in Fig. 28 (b), it is possible to form a portion applying the rotational force (drive transmission part) 1280 (1280c1, 1280c2) integrally with the propulsion watt 1280. When the propeller shaft 1280 is a resin molded part, integrally with it, a force applying part may be formed. Thus, cost reduction can be achieved. The flat part of the surface is marked by 1280b.
[0188] Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 28 (c), the area of the free end portion 1380b of the shaft 1380 is reduced. To this end, it is possible to make the outer diameter of the free end of the shaft 1380c smaller than the outer diameter of the main portion 1380a. As described above, the free end portion 1380b requires some accuracy to determine the position of the clutch 150. Therefore, the sphericity range is limited only to the contact portion of the clutch. As a result, a part other than the surface is omitted, where finishing accuracy is required. The cost of machining is reduced. In addition, it is also possible to shear the free end of an unnecessary spherical surface. The bolt (the part applying the rotational force) was marked by 1382.
[0189] The following describes a method for positioning the photoconductor 107 with respect to the direction of the L1 axis. In other words, the clutch 1550 is provided with an oblique surface (inclined plane) 1550e, 1550h. As a result, by turning the drive shaft 181, a force is generated in the direction of travel. This pushing force positions the coupling 1550 and photoconductor 107 relative to the axis L1 direction. This is described in detail with reference to Fig. 29 and Fig. 30. 29 shows a perspective view and a top view of the clutch itself. Fig. 30 is a perspective view that shows the drive shaft, drum shaft and clutch.
[0190} As shown in Fig. 29 (b), the surface 1550e receiving the rotational force (inclined plane)) (the part receiving the rotational force) is inclined at an angle ct5 with respect to axis L2. As the drive shaft 180 rotates in the direction T1, the pin 182 and the rotational force bearing surface 1550e are in contact with each other. Then, a force component is applied to clutch 1550 in direction T2 by displacing it in direction T2. The clutch 1550 moves in the axial direction until it rests against the receiving surface 1550f of the propeller shaft (Fig. 30a) against the free end 180b of the propeller shaft 180. In this way, the position of the clutch 1550 relative to the direction of the axis L2 is determined. In addition, the free end 180b of the drive shaft 180 is shaped as a spherical surface, and the receiving surface 1550f has a conical shape. Therefore, with respect to the direction perpendicular to axis L2, the position of the driven part 1550a relative to the drive shaft 180 is determined. In cases where the coupling 1550 is attached to the drum 107, the drum 107 also moves in the axial direction depending on the magnitude of this force which is exerted in the direction T2. In this case, with respect to the longitudinal direction, the position of the drum 107 relative to the main device assembly is determined. Drum 107 is mounted loosely in its longitudinal direction in the frame of the B1 cartridge.
[0191] As shown in Fig. 29 (c), the rotational force transmission surface (the rotational force transmitting portion) 1550h is inclined at an angle a6 with respect to axis L2. When the clutch 1550 rotates towards T1, the transfer surface 1550h and the pin 155 are in contact with each other. Then the force component is exerted in the direction T2 on the pin 155 and this moves in the direction T2. In this case, the drum shaft 153 moves until the free end 153b of the shaft 153 contacts the drum bearing surface 1550i (Fig. 30 (b)) of the coupling 1550. As a result, the position of the drum shaft 155 (photosensitive drum) relative to the axis direction is determined. L2. Furthermore, the drum bearing surface 1550i is a conical surface and the free end 153b of the drum shaft 153 is formed as a spherical surface. Thus, with respect to the direction perpendicular to axis L2, the position of the driving portion 1550b relative to the drum shaft 153 is determined.
[0192] The cone angles α5 and a6 are set such that the force generated is sufficient to effectively move the clutch and photosensitive drum in the push direction. Although their forces differ depending on the operating moment of the photosensitive drum 107, when using a means that is effective for determining the position in the pushing direction, the cone angles a5 and a6 may be small.
[0193] As described above, conicity is used to pull the coupling towards the L2 axis, and a conical surface defining the position on the L2 axis relative to the orthogonality direction. In this case, the position of the coupling relative to the direction of the L1 axis and relative to the direction perpendicular to the L1 axis are determined simultaneously. The coupling can reliably transmit rotational force. In addition, compared to the case where the rotational force transmitting surface (rotational force transmitting part) or the rotational force transmitting surface (rotational force transmitting part) of the clutch does not have the narrowing angle described above, stable contact can be ensured between the rotational force exerting part drive shaft and the part absorbing the rotational force of the clutch. Furthermore, stable contact can be ensured between the rotational force receiving portion of the drum and the rotational force transmitting part of the clutch.
[0194] However, an oblique surface (inclined plane) for exerting a pulling force on the coupling in the direction of the L2 axis, and a conical surface for positioning the L2 axis in relation to the orthogonal direction, may be omitted. For example, instead of converging to pull in the direction of the L2 axis, it is possible to insert parts for pressing the drum in the direction of the L2 axis. In the remainder of the description, if there is no specific reference, an oblique surface and a conical surface are used. In addition, the oblique surface and the conical surface are also used in the coupling 150 described above.
[0195] In the following, referring to Fig. 31, adjustment means for adjusting the direction of clutch inclination relative to the cartridge. Fig. 31 (a) is a side view that shows the main part of the driving side of the process cartridge, and Fig. 31 (b) is a cross-sectional view along the line S7-S7 of Fig. 31 (a).
[0196] In this embodiment, the clutch 150 and the drive shaft 180 of the main component assembly can be meshed more reliably using adjustment means. [0197] In this embodiment, as adjustment means, adjustment parts 1557h1 or 1557h2 located on drum carrier 1557 are used. The clutch 150 can be adjusted by these adjusting means in the deflecting directions relative to the cartridge (B). The design is such that, just before the engagement of the coupling 150 with the propeller shaft 180, the adjustment part 1557h1 or 1557h2 is parallel to the X4 direction of the insert assembly (B). In addition, the distances D6 are slightly larger than the outer diameter D7 of the drive part 150b of the clutch 150. In this way, the clutch 150 can only deviate in the direction X4 of mounting the cartridge (B). In addition, the clutch 150 may be inclined in any direction relative to the drum shaft 153. Accordingly, regardless of the phase of the drum shaft 153, the clutch 150 can be tilted in an adjustable direction. Thus, the bore 150m of the clutch 150 can more safely accommodate the propeller shaft 180. In this way, the clutch 150 is coupled with greater reliability to the propeller shaft 180.
[0198] In the following, referring to Fig. 32, another structure for adjusting the direction of the clutch is described. Fig. 32 (a) is a perspective view that shows the interior of the main component assembly on the driving side, and Fig. 32 (b) is a side view of the container in the opposite direction of assembly X4.
[0199] The regulating parts 1557h1 or 1557h2 in the above description are contained in the cartridge (B). In this embodiment, the mounting guide part 1630R1 on the driving side of the main component assembly (A) is a rib-shaped adjustment part 1630R1a. Regulatory part
1630R1a is the adjustment means for adjusting the oscillation directions of the clutch 150. The structure is such that when the user inserts the insert (B), the outer periphery 150c of the coupling coupling portion 150 contacts the upper surface 1630R1a-1 of the adjusting portion 1630R1a. The clutch 150 is guided through the upper surface 1630R1a-1. For this reason, the direction of inclination of the clutch 150 is adjusted. In addition, as in the above-described embodiment, regardless of the phase of the drum drum 153, the clutch 150 is inclined in the direction in which it is adjusted.
[0200] In the example shown in Fig. 32 (a), the adjusting portion 1630R1a is located below the coupling 150. However, as with the adjusting portion 1557h2 shown in Fig. 31, more certain adjustment can be achieved when the adjusting portion is placed on the side top. [0201] As described above, it can be connected to a structure in which the regulating part is placed in the insert (B). In this case, more reliable control can be achieved.
[0202] However, in this embodiment in which the means for adjusting the direction of the clutch of the clutch can be omitted, the clutch 150 is already, for example, already inclined towards the mounting direction of the cartridge (B). In this connection, the mounting surface 150f of the drive shaft is enlarged. In this way, the connection between the drive shaft 180 and the coupling 150 can be established.
[0203] Furthermore, in the above description, the angle in the angular position of the engagement teeth 150 relative to the drum L1 axis is greater than the angle in the disengaged position (Figures 22 and 25). However, the present invention is not limited to this example.
[0204] The description below is made with reference to Fig. 33. Fig. 33 is a longitudinal section that shows how to remove the insert (B) from the main device assembly (A).
[0205] In the process of removing the insert (B) from the main assembly unit (A), the angle in the disengaged position (in the state according to Fig. 33c) of the 1750 relative to the L1 axis can be equivalent to the angle in the angular position of the 1750 of the primary engagement of the coupling relative to the L1 axis when the 1750 clutch is engaged. Here, the process where the 1750 clutch disengages is shown as (a) - (b) - (c) - (d) in Fig. 33.
[0206] In particular, the arrangement is such that when the free end portion 1750A3 located in the opposite direction to the X6 removal direction of the coupling 1750 passes the free end portion 180b3 of the drive shaft 180, the distance between the free end portion 1750A3 and the free end portion 180b3 is comparable to distance at the angular position of the initial meshing. With this setting, the 1750 clutch can be disengaged from the propeller shaft 180.
[0207] Other operations during disassembly of the cartridge (B) are the same as those described above, and therefore their description is omitted.
[0208] Furthermore, in the above description, when the insert (B) is mounted to the main assembly (A), the free end in the direction of the coupling is closer to the shaft than the free end of the propeller shaft 180. However, the present the invention is not limited to this example.
[0209] The following description refers to Fig. 34. Fig. 34 is a longitudinal section illustrating the assembly process of the insert (B). As shown in Fig. 34, in the state (a) of the assembly process of the cartridge (B) towards the L1 axis, the free end portion 1850A1 is, in the X4 assembly direction, closer to the pin 182 (rotational force portion) than the free end portion 180b3 drive shaft. In state (b), the free end portion 1850A1 contacts the free end portion 180b. With the free end position
1850Α1 moves towards shaft 153 along the finished end portion 180b. And in this position, the free end portion 1850A1 passes the free end portion 180b3 of the drive shaft 180, and the clutch 150 occupies the angular position of the pre-meshing (Fig. 34 (c)). And finally, the connection between the 1850 clutch and the propeller shaft 180 is set up (Fig. 34 (d) (angular position for the transmission of rotational force)).
[0210] An example of this embodiment is described below.
[0211] First, the diameter of the drum shaft 153 is ΦΖ1, the diameter of the pin 155 is ΦΖ2, and the length is Z3 (Fig. 7 (a)). The maximum outer diameter of the driven part 150a of the clutch 150 is ΦΖ4, the diameter of the circle C1 of the stroke that passes through the inner ends of the projections 150d1 or 150d2 or 150d3, 150d4 is ΦΖ5, and the maximum outer diameter of the driving part 150b is ΦΖ6 (Fig. 8 (d), ( f)). The angle formed between the coupling 150 and the receiving surface 150f is designated a2, and the angle formed between the coupling 150 and the receiving surface 150i is a1. The axis diameter of the drive shaft 180 is ΦΖ7, the diameter of the pin 182 is ΦΖ8, and the length is Z9 (Fig. 17 (b)). In addition, the angle relative to the L1 axis in the angular position of the rotational force transmission is β1, the angle in the angular position of the initial constraint is β2, and the angle of the disengagement angle is β3. In this example, Z1 - 8mm; Z2 = 2mm; Z3 = 12mm; Z4 = 15mm; Z5 - 10mm; Z6 = 19mm; Z7 = 8mm; Z8 - 2mm; Z9 = 14mm; a1 = 70 degrees, a2 = 120 degrees; β1 = 0 degrees; β2 = 35 degrees, β3 = 30 degrees.
[0212] It has been confirmed that with these settings, a connection between the clutch 150 and the propeller shaft 180 is possible. However, these setting values do not limit the range of the display. In addition, the clutch 150 can transmit rotational force to the drum 107 with high precision. The values given above are exemplary, and the invention is not limited to these values.
[0213] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the pin (portion applying the rotational force) 182 is located within 5 mm of the free end of the propeller shaft 180. In addition, the rotational force of the mounting surface (rotational force receiving surface) 150E located in the projection 150d is located within 4 mm of the end of the coupling 150. In this way, the pin 182 is located on the free end side of the drive shaft 180, the rotational force absorbing surface 150E is located on the free end side of the clutch 150.
[0214] In the process of assembling the insert (B) to the main component assembly (A), the drive shaft 180 and the coupling 150 can smoothly mesh with each other. More specifically, the pin 182 and the 150E surface capable of transmitting rotational force can smoothly engage with each other.
[0215] In addition, when removing the insert (B) from the main component assembly (A), the drive shaft 180 and clutch 150 can disengage smoothly. More specifically, the pin 182 and the 150E rotational force receiving surface can smoothly disengage from each other.
[0216] The values are exemplary and the invention is not limited to these values. However, the effects described above occur more extensively when the pin (portion exerting a rotational force) 182 and the rotational force of the receiving surface 150e are included in these numerical ranges.
[0217] As described above, in the described embodiment, the coupling member 150 is able to occupy the angular position of the rotational force transmission for the transmission of the rotational force to rotate the electrophotographic photosensitive drum onto this photoconductor, and the angular disengagement position in which the coupling member 150 is tilted from the axis of the electrophotographic photosensitive drum in the case of the angular position of the rotational force. When the process cartridge is removed from the main electrophotographic imaging device assembly in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the photographic photosensitive drum, the coupling member moves from the angular position of the angular rotational force transmission to the angular disengagement position. When the process cartridge is mounted in the main assembly of the electrophotographic imaging device, in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of the electrophotographic photosensitive drum, the coupling member moves from the angular disconnection position of the rotational force transmission to the angular position of the rotational force transmission. This applies to the embodiments listed below, but another embodiment, Implementation 2 is only associated with disassembly.
[Implementation 2] [0218] In the following, with reference to Figs. 35-40, an embodiment of a second embodiment to which the present invention is applied is described.
[0219] In the description of this embodiment, the elements having in this embodiment analogous functions as in Implementation 1 are assigned the same reference numbers, and their detailed description is simplified. This also applies to another implementation described below.
[0220] This implementation is effective not only in the case of assembly and disassembly of the cartridge (B) in relation to the main device assembly (A), but also in the case of only disassembly of the cartridge (B) from the main device assembly (A).
[0221] In particular, when the propeller shaft 180 is stopped, the propeller shaft 180 is stopped in a certain phase by adjusting the main component assembly (A), in other words, it is stopped so that the pin 182 can be in a fixed position. In addition, the clutch phase 14150 (150) is positioned so that it can be collinear with the propeller shaft 180 in the stop phase, e.g. the position of the auxiliary part 14150k (150k) is set so that it can be collinear with the stop position of the pin 182 in this position, when mounting the reservoir (B) to the main assembly (A), that even if the 14150 (150) coupling is not swung, it will be in alignment opposite the propeller shaft 180. The rotational force from the propeller shaft 180 is transmitted to the 14150 (150) clutch by turning the propeller shaft 180. This allows the 14150 (150) clutch to rotate with high precision.
[0222] However, this implementation is effective when disassembling the cassette (B) from the main device assembly (A), moving in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the axis L3. This is because, even if the drive shaft 180 stops in a predetermined phase, the pin 182 and the surface receiving the 14150e1 14150e2 (150e) rotational force remain reciprocally engaged. For this reason, in order to disengage clutch 14150 (150) from drive shaft 180, the clutch 14150 (150) must be rotated.
[0223] Furthermore, in Implementation 1 as described above, when mounting the insert (B) to the main component assembly (A), and during dismantling, this clutch 14150 (150) performs a swinging motion. Therefore, the adjustment of the main unit (A) described above is not necessary, and when mounting the insert (B) to the main unit (A) it is not necessary to set the coupling phase 14150 (150) in accordance with the drive shaft stop phase 180 first.
[0224] The following description refers to the drawings.
[0225] Fig. 35 is a perspective view that shows the phase adjustment means for the drive shaft, drive gear and drive shaft of the main component assembly. Fig. 36 shows a perspective view and a top view of the clutch. Fig. 37 is a perspective view that illustrates the assembly of a process cartridge. Fig. 38 shows a top view in the assembly direction when assembling the insert. FIG. 39 is a perspective view that shows the cartridge (photoconductor) when the drive is stopped. Fig. 40 is a longitudinal section and perspective view that illustrate cartridge removal operations.
[0226] In this implementation, a description is provided regarding the cartridge detachably mounted to the main component assembly (A), equipped with a control means (not shown) that can control the stop phase of the pin 182. One end side (not shown drum 107) of the drive shaft 180 is the same as in the first embodiment as shown in Fig. 35 (a), and therefore its description is omitted. However, as shown in Fig. 35 (b), the other side of the end (opposite side of the not shown photoconductor 107) is provided with a plate 14195 extending from the propeller shaft 180, from the outer periphery of the propeller shaft 180. The plate 14195 when rotating passes through photoelectric interrupter 14196 attached to the main device assembly. Adjustment means (not shown) provide adjustment, so that on the rotation (e.g., rotation associated with image formation) of the propeller shaft 180, when the plate 14195 enters the photoelectric breaker 14196, the motor 186 stops, thanks to which the pin 182 stops in a fixed position relative to the axis of rotation of the propeller shaft 180. Preferably, the motor 186, in this embodiment, is a stepper motor that allows easy position control.
[0227] In the following, with reference to Fig. 36, the clutch used in this embodiment is described.
[0228] The clutch 14150 consists mainly of three parts. As shown in Fig. 36 (c), they are: a driven part 14150a for absorbing rotational force from the drive shaft 180, a driving part 14150b for transmitting rotational force to the drum shaft 153, and a connecting part 14150c that connects the driven part 14150a to the part propelling 14150b.
[0229] The driven portion 14150a has a drive shaft introducing portion 14150m formed by 2 surfaces that extend away from the axis L2. In addition, the driving portion 14150b has a drum shaft 14150v portion formed by 2 surfaces that extend away from the axis L2.
[0230] The insertion part 14150m has an oblique seating surface 14150f1 or 14150f2 for the drive shaft. Each end surface is provided with a projection 14150d1 or 14150d2. The projections 14150d1 or 14150d2 are distributed around the circumference around the L2 axis of the 14150 clutch. The settling surfaces 14150f1 or 14150f2 form a recess 14150z as shown in the drawing. In addition, as shown in Fig. 36 (d), on the clockwise side, the projection 14150d1, 14150d2 has a surface 14150e (14150βΓ, 14150e2) for receiving the rotational force (the part for the rotational force). The pivot (part exerting rotational force) 182 adheres to this receiving surface 14150e1, 14150e2. As a result, the rotational force is transmitted to coupling 14150. The distance (W) between adjacent projections 14150d 1 -d2 is made larger than the outer diameter of the pin 182 to allow the pin 182 to enter. This gap is the spare parts 14150k.
[0231] Furthermore, the insertion part 14150v is formed by two surfaces, 14150i1, 14150-2. In these surfaces 1415011, 14150Ϊ2 (Figs. 36a-Fig. 36e) there are reserve holes 14150g1 or 14150g2. In addition, in Fig. 36 (e), counterclockwise from holes 14150g1 or 14150g2, there is a surface rotational force transmitting (rotational force transmitting part) 14150h (14150h1 or 14150h2). Here, as described above, the pin (rotational force receiving portion) 155A contacts the rotational force surfaces 14150M or 14150h2. In this way, the rotational force is transmitted from the coupling 14150 to the photosensitive drum 107, [0232] Due to the shape of the coupling 1415, the coupling at the free end of the drive shaft is in a state in which the cartridge is attached to the main assembly.
[0233] Due to the similarity of this structure to the structure described in the first embodiment, the coupling 14150 can be inclined in any direction relative to the drum shaft 153.
[0234] In the following, referring to Figs. 37 and 38, the clutch assembly operation will be described. Fig. 37 (a) is a perspective view that shows the state prior to mounting the clutch. Fig. 37 (b). is a perspective view that shows the state in which the clutch is engaged. Fig. 38 (a) is a top view along the assembly direction. Fig. 38 (b) is a top view transversely to the assembly direction.
[0235] The axis L3 of the pin (the part exerting a rotational force) 182 is parallel to the mounting direction X4 at the control means described above. In addition, in the case of the insert, the phase is leveled so that the settlement surfaces 14150f1 and 14150f2 are directed from each other in a direction perpendicular to the direction X4 of the assembly (Fig. 37 (a)), As a phase equalization structure, one side of each of the settling surfaces 14150f1 or 14150f2 is leveled, for example, with mark 14157z on support member 14157, as shown in the drawing. This is done before sending the input from the factory. However, this can be done by the user before mounting the insert (B) to the main device assembly. In addition, other phase setting means can be used. Due to this, the coupling 14150 and the drive shaft 180 (pin 182) do not interfere with each other in relation to the position in the assembly direction, as shown in Fig. 38 (a). Accordingly, the clutch 14150 and the drive shaft 180 can be coupled without problem (Fig. 37 (b)). In this case, the drive shaft 180 rotates in the direction Χ8, so that the pin 182 contacts the seating surfaces 14150e1, 14150e2. The rotational force is transmitted to the photosensitive drum 107.
[0236] In the following, with reference to Figs. 39 and 40, an operation is described in which the clutch 14150 disengages from the propeller shaft 180 in correlation with the operation of removing the cartridge (B) from the main device assembly (A). The phase of the pin 182 relative to the drive shaft 180 is stopped in a fixed position by the control means. As described above, when the ease of insertion of the cartridge (B) is considered, it is desirable for the pin 182 to stop parallel to the X6 direction of disassembly of the cartridge (Fig. 39b). The operation during the removal of the cartridge (B) is shown in Fig. 40, In this state (Figs. 40 (a1) and (b1)), the 14150 coupling occupies the angular position of the transmission of rotational force, and the L2 axis and the L1 axis are substantially aligned. In this case, as in the case of mounting the cartridge (B), the coupling 14150 can be tilted in any direction relative to the drum shaft 153 (Figs. 40 a 1, Fig. 40 b1). Therefore, the L2 axis is tilted in the opposite direction to the disassembly direction relative to the L1 axis, in correlation with the cartridge removal operation (B). More precisely, the insert (B) is disassembled in the direction (indicated by arrow X6) substantially perpendicular to the axis L3. In the process of dismantling the insert, the L2 axis is tilted until the free end 14150A3 of the clutch 14150 aligns along the free end 180b of the propeller shaft 180 (angular disconnection position). Or it is tilted until the L2 axis is on the drum shaft side 153 relative to the free end portion 180b3 (Fig. 40 (a2), Fig. 40 (b2). In this condition, the coupling 14150 passes the free end portion 180b3. 14150 is removed from the 180 drive shaft.
[0237] Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 39 (a), the axis of the pin 182 may stop in a position perpendicular to the direction X6 of dismantling the cartridge. The pin 182 is usually, when controlling the control means, stopped in the position shown in Fig. 39 (b). However, the voltage source of the device (printer) may be turned off and the control unit may not work. In this case, the pin 182 may stop in the position shown in Fig. 39 (a). However, even in this case, the L2 axis is tilted relative to the L1 axis as in the case described above, and removal operation is possible. When the device is in the drive standstill state, the pin 182 is located behind, relative to the X6 disassembly direction, projection 14150d2. Therefore, the free end 14150A3 of the clutch projection 14150d1 passes on the drum shaft side 153 beyond the pin 182 with tilting of the axis L2. In this way, the 14150 clutch is removed from the drive shaft 180.
[0238] As described above, even if this is the case in which the clutch 14150 is meshed with the propeller shaft 180 in some way while the insert (B) is being mounted, the L2 axis tilts with respect to the L1 axis during the disassembly operation. By this coupling, the 14150 can be removed from the propeller shaft 180 only for such disassembly operations. Thus, the clutch 14150 can be removed from the propeller shaft 180 by this disassembly operation only.
[0239] As described above, according to this Implementation 2, this implementation is effective, except for the case of assembly and disassembly of the insert (B) with respect to the main assembly unit (A) also even in the case of disassembly of the insert from the main assembly unit [Implementation 3 ] [0240] An example of the third embodiment will be described below with reference to Fig. 41 - Fig. 45.
[0241] Figure 41 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the state in which the flap of the main assembly is open. Fig. 42 is a perspective view that shows the mounting guide. Fig. 43 is an enlarged view of the surface of the cartridge on the driving side. Fig. 44 is a perspective view from the driving side of the cartridge. Figure 45 is a view showing the state of insertion of a cartridge into the main device assembly.
[0242] In this embodiment, for example, as with this type of lockable image forming device, the cartridge is mounted downwards. A typical flap-closing image creation device is shown in Fig. 41. The main device assembly A2 comprises a lower housing D2 and an upper housing E2. The upper housing E2 is equipped with flap 2109, and display unit 2101 inside flap 2109. Therefore, when the upper enclosure E2 is opened upwards, the display unit 2101 retracts. At the same time, the upper settling portion 2130a of the cartridge. When the user places the B-2 cartridge in the cartridge portion 2130a, it drops the B-2 cartridge in the X4b direction downwards. Installation ends there and, therefore, seating the container is easy. In addition, the jam removal operation of the adjacent fuser 105 may take place from the top of the device. Thus, the device is distinguished by the ease of clearing jams. Here, clearing jams is the operation of removing registration material 102 jammed during feeding.
[0243] Specifically, a settling portion for the B-2 cartridge is described. As shown in Fig. 42, the image forming device A2 is provided with a mounting guide 2130R in the side wall, and is provided with an opposite mounting guide opposite the non-driven side wall as a mounting means 2130. The settlement portion 2130a is formed as a space surrounded by opposing guides. The rotational force is transmitted to the coupling 150 of the B-2 cartridge located in this settlement portion 2130a from the main component assembly A.
[0244} The mounting guide 2130R is provided with a groove 2130b that extends in a substantially vertical direction. Furthermore, in the lowest part there is a stop part 2130Ra for setting the B-2 cartridge in a certain position. In addition, the propeller shaft 180 protrudes from the groove 2130b. In a state in which the B-2 insert is in a specific position, the propeller shaft 180 transmits rotational force from the main unit A to clutch 150. In addition, in order to ensure that the B-2 container is positioned in a predetermined position, a compression spring 2188R is located at the bottom of the mounting guide 2130R. In the structure described above, the B-2 insert is placed in the settlement portion 2130a.
[0245] As shown in Fig. 43 and Fig. 44, the B-2 cartridge is equipped with lateral mounting guides 2140R1, 2140R2 of the cartridge. Such a guide stabilizes the position of the B-2 insert during assembly. In this case, the mounting guide 2140R1 is integrally formed on the drum support member 2157. In addition, the mounting guide 2140R2 is essentially above the mounting guide 2140R1. The mounting guide 2140R2 is located in the second frame 2118 and is in the form of a rib.
[0246] The mounting guides 2140R1, 2140R2 of the B-2 cartridge and mounting guide 2130R of the main component assembly A2 have the structure as described above. In particular, it is the same as the guide structure, which has been described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Furthermore, the guide structure at the other end is also the same. In this regard, the container B-2 is mounted by moving to the main component assembly A2 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of the axis L3 of the propeller shaft 180, and further, it is similarly disassembled from the main component assembly A2.
[0247] As shown in Fig. 45, when mounting the B-2 cartridge, the upper housing E2 is rotated clockwise around shaft 2109a and the user places the B-2 cartridge in the upper part of the other housing D2. At this time, the clutch 150 is inclined downwards under the weight of Figure 43. In other words, the clutch axis L2 slopes relative to the drum axis L1 so that the driven portion 150a of the clutch 150 can be turned down to the angular position of the pre-meshing.
[0248] Furthermore, as described with reference to Implementation 1, Figs. 9 and 12, it is desirable to use a semicircular retaining rib 2157e, Fig. 43. In this embodiment, the mounting direction of the B-2 insert is downward. Accordingly, the rib 2157e is located in the bottom part. As a result, as described with reference to Implementation 1, the L1 axis and the L2 axis are pivotable with respect to each other, and clutch maintenance 150 is implemented. The holding rib prevents the coupling 150 from separating from the B-2 cartridge. When the coupling 150 is mounted on the photoconductor 107, it prevents it from separating from the photoconductor 107k.
[024S] In this condition, as shown in Fig. 45, the user lowers the B-2 cartridge down, aligning the mounting guides 2140R1 2140R2 of the B-2 cartridge with the mounting guides 2130R of the main component assembly A2. The B-2 insert can be mounted on the mounting part 2130a of the main component assembly A2 by means of this operation only. In this assembly process, as in Realization 1, Fig. 22, the clutch 150 may be meshed with the drive shaft 180 of the main assembly (the clutch in this state assumes the angular position of the rotational force transmission). In particular, by moving in the B-2 cartridge in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the axis L3 of the propeller shaft 180, the clutch 150 is coupled to the propeller shaft 180. In addition, during disassembly of the cartridge, as in Realization 1, the clutch 150 may be disengaged from the propeller shaft 180 by the same operation that disassembles the cartridge (the clutch moves to the angular disengagement position from the angular position of the rotational force, Fig. 25). In particular, by moving the insert B-2 in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction L3 of the propeller shaft 180, the clutch 150 is disengaged from the propeller shaft 180.
[0250] As described above, because the clutch tilts downwards under the action of weight, when the cartridge is mounted from above to the main component assembly, it can engage reliably with the drive shaft of the main component assembly.
[0251] In this reaiization, a flap-type image creation device has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this realization. For example, this embodiment can be used if the insert is being installed downwards. In addition, its installation path is not limited to a straight one. For example, at the initial stage of deposition the cartridge may be inclined downwardly, and at the end may change to a straight one. This implementation is effective if the mounting path is facing downwards just before reaching a certain position (the settlement part of the insert).
[Implementation 4] [0252] In the following with reference to Figs. 46 — Figs. 49, describes the fourth implementation of the present invention.
[0253] In this reaiization, means are described for maintaining the L2 axis in a tilted state relative to the L1 axis.
[0254] The drawing only shows the member to which the description of this part of the present embodiment relates, the other members are omitted. This implementation is also similar to other implementations as described below. [0255] Figure 46 is a perspective view that shows a clutch locking member (this is characteristic of the present embodiment) mounted on the drum support member. FIG. 47 is an exploded perspective view that shows the drum support member, the clutch, and the drum shaft. Fig. 48 is an enlarged perspective view of the main part on the driving side of the cartridge. Fig. 49 is a perspective view and longitudinal section that illustrate the meshing condition between the drive shaft and the clutch.
[0256] As shown in Fig. 46, the drum support member 3157 has a space 3157b that surrounds a portion of the clutch. The clutch locking member 3159, as a retaining member dfa for maintaining the slope of the clutch 3150, is glued onto the cylindrical surface 3157Ϊ, which is its space. As described later, this locking member 3159 is a member for temporarily maintaining the state in which the L2 axis is inclined relative to the L1 axis. In other words, as shown in Fig. 48, part 3150j of coupling flange 3150 contacts this locking member 3159. This causes the L2 axis to be inclined in the direction of assembly (X4) of the cartridge relative to the U axis (Fig. 49 (a1)). Accordingly, as shown in Fig. 46, the locking member 3159 is disposed on the cylindrical surface 3157i of the support member 3157 on the side opposite the assembly direction X4. As material for the locking element 3159, a material that has a relatively high coefficient of friction, for example consisting of rubber and elastomer or flexible materials, such as a flat spring sponge, is preferred. This is because the slope of the L2 axis can be maintained by friction force, elasticity force, and the like. In addition, as in Realization 1, the support member 3157 (not shown in Fig. 31) is provided with a tilt adjustment rib 3157h. This 3157h rib is to provide reliable determination of the slope of the 3150 coupling. In addition, the flange part
3150j and locking member 3159 can contact each other with greater reliability. Referring to Fig. 47, a method for assembling a 3150 coupling is described. As shown in Fig. 47, a pin (rotational part) 155 enters the reserve space of 3150g of 3150 clutch Furthermore, the coupling portion 3150 is introduced into the portion of space 3157b that the drum support member 3157 has. At this time, preferably, the distance D12 between the end of the inner surface of the rib 3157e and the locking member 3159 is set such that it is greater than the maximum outer diameter ΦΩ10 of the driven part 3150a. Furthermore, the distance D12 is set so that it is smaller than the maximum outer diameter <t> D11 of the driving part 3150b. In this way, the support member 3157 can be mounted straight. Therefore, the quality of assembly improves. However, this implementation is not limited to this dependence .
[0257] In the following, with reference to Fig. 49, the meshing operation (part of the cartridge assembly operation) of the clutch 3150 with the drive shaft 180 is described. Fig. 49 (a1) and (b1) show the state immediately before meshing, and Fig. 49 (a2 ) and (b2) show the state after engagement.
[0258] As shown in Fig. 49 (A1) and Fig. 49 (B1), the L2 axis of the clutch 3150 is initially inclined with respect to the L1 axis in the direction of assembly X4 by the force of the locking member 3159 (angular position of the pre-toothing) . With this inclination of the 3150 coupling towards the L1 axis, the distal (relative to the assembly direction) free end portion 3150A1 is closer to the side facing the photoconductive drum 107 than the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft. In this case, the free end 3150A2 on the opposite side (towards the assembly direction) is closer to the pin 182 than the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft 180, and in addition, as described above, the flange portion 3150j contacts the locking element 3159. The L2 axis inclination is maintained by friction.
[0259] Next, the insert B moves in the assembly X4 direction. The free end surface 180b, i.e. the free end of the pin 182, reaches the bearing surface 3150f of the drive shaft of the clutch 3150. The axis L2 approaches the direction parallel to the axis L1 under the action of their pressure (insert assembly force). In this case, the flange portion 3150j is moved away from the locking member 3159, and goes into a non-contact state. And finally, the L1 axis and the L2 axis are basically collinear with each other. The 3150 clutch is in a ready condition (for transmitting rotational force (Fig. 49 (a2), (b2)) (in the angular position of transmitting the rotational force).
[0260] As in Case 1, from the engine 186, the rotational force is transmitted via the drive shaft 180 to the clutch 3150, the pin (the part that receives the rotational force) 155, the drum 153 and drum 107. The axis L2 during rotation is in principle collinear with the axis L1. Therefore, the locking element 3159 is not in contact with the 3150 clutch. Therefore, the locking element 3159 has no effect on the rotational movement of the 3150 clutch.
[0261] In addition, operations take place similar to implementation 1, according to a process step in which the B input is removed from the main assembly (Fig. 25). In other words, the free end portion 180b of the propeller shaft 180 pushes the bearing surface 3150f of the clutch drive shaft 3150. This causes the L2 axis to tilt relative to the L1 axis and the flange portion 3150j to contact the locking element 3159. As a result, the clutch 3150 remains in tilt still. In other words, the clutch 3150 moves from the angular position of the rotational force transmission to the angular position of the pre-meshing.
[0262] As described above, the state of inclination with respect to the L2 axis is maintained by the locking member 3159 (retaining member). This allows the 3150 clutch to be more reliably meshed with the propeller shaft 180.
[0263] In this embodiment, the locking element 3159 is mounted on the outermost part of the inner surface 3157i of the support member 3157 with respect to the insertion direction X4. However, the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, when the L2 axis is tilting, any position that can maintain its slope can be used.
[0264] Furthermore, in this implementation, the locking element 3159 contacts the flange portion 3150j on the side of the driving portion 3150b (Fig. 49 (b1)) side. However, the contact point may be a driven part 3150a.
[0265] Furthermore, the locking element 3159 used in this embodiment is a separate element in the support member 3157. However, the present implementation is not limited to this example. For example, the locking element 3159 may be integrally formed with the support member 3157 (e.g., two-color reforming). Also, the support member 3157 can be brought into direct contact with the clutch 3150 instead of the locking member 3159. Or its surface may be rough to increase the coefficient of friction.
[0266] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the locking member 3159 is mounted on the supporting member 3157. However, if the locking member 3159 is a member attached to the cartridge B, they can be embedded anywhere.
[Implementation 5j [0267] In the following with reference to Figs. 50 ~ 53, describes a fifth implementation of this invention.
[0268] Other means for maintaining the tilted state of the L2 axis relative to the L1 axis are described in the present embodiment.
[0269] Fig. 50 is an exploded perspective view of the clutch biasing member (which is characteristic of the present embodiment) mounted on the drum support member. Fig. 51 is an exploded perspective view that shows the drum support member, the clutch, and the drum shaft. Fig. 52 is an enlarged view of the main part on the driving side of the cartridge. Fig. 53 is a perspective view and longitudinal section showing the drive shaft and the engagement condition of the clutch. [0270] As shown in Fig. 50, a retaining hole 4157j is formed in the retaining rib 4157e of the drum support member 4157. The retainer 4159a, 4159b of the clutch are mounted in the retaining hole 4157j as a retaining member to maintain the slope of the clutch 4150. The retainers 4159a, 4159b push the clutch 4150 so that the L2 axis inclines relative to the L1 axis in the direction of assembly of the insert B 2. Each pressure element 4159a, 4159b is a compression helical spring (elastic material). As shown in Fig. 51, the pressure elements 4159a, 4159b push the flange portion 4150j of the coupling 4150 towards the axis L1 (arrow Χ13 in Fig. 51). The contact point where the pressure elements contact the flange portion 4150j is in the direction X4 of mounting the cartridge relative to the center of the drum shaft 153. Therefore, as with the L2 axis, the side of the driven part 4150a is inclined in the direction of the cartridge (X4) assembly direction relative to the L1 axis by the spring force of the pressure element 4159a, 4159b (Fig. 52).
[0271] Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 50, on the coupling side, the free end of each pressure element 4159a, 4159b, which is a helical spring, is provided with a contact member 4160a, 4160b. Contact member 4160a, 4160b contacts flange portion 4150j. In this regard, it is preferred that the material of the contact member 4160a, 4160b is a high slip material. In addition, when using such material as described below during the transmission of rotational force, the effect of the tension force exerted by the pressure element 4159a, 4159b on the rotation of the clutch 4150 is reduced. However, when the load in terms of rotation is sufficiently low and the clutch 4150 turns satisfactorily, pressure elements 4160a, 4160b are not necessary).
[0272] In the present embodiment, two pressure elements are used. However, if the L2 axis can tilt relative to the L1 axis in the direction of the insert assembly, the number of pressure elements can be any. For example, in the case of one pressure element, as in the case of the excitation position, the most extended position in the X4 direction of the insert assembly is preferred. As a result, the 4150 clutch can be stably inclined in the direction of assembly.
[0273] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the pressure element is a compression helical spring. However, any element may be used as the thrust member if it produces a spring force such as a flat spring, torsion spring, rubber, sponge, and the like. However, a certain impact value is needed to deflect the L2 axis. Accordingly, in the case of, for example, a helical spring, it is desirable to further provide this impact.
[0274] Referring to Fig. 51, a method for mounting a 4150 coupling is described below.
[0275] As shown in Fig. 51, the pin 155 enters the reserve space 4150g of the coupling 4150. In this case, part of the coupling 4150 is placed in the space 4157b of the drum support member 4157. At the same time, as described above, the pressure means 4159a, 4159b push the flange portion 4157j into a predetermined position via contact member 4160a, 4160b. Screw (4158a, 4158b in fig. 52) is screwed into the hole 4157g1 or 4157g2 made in the 4157 support member, by means of which the support member 4157 is attached to the second frame 118. This allows the clamping force exerted on the coupling 4150 by the clamping elements 4159a, 4159b. The L2 axis is inclined relative to the L1 axis (Fig. 52).
[0276] In the following, with reference to Fig. 53, the operation (part of the cartridge insertion operation) of engagement of the coupling 4150 with the drive shaft 180 is described. Fig. 53 (a1) and (b1) show the state just before meshing, Fig. 53 (a2) and (b2) show the state after engagement, and Fig. 53 (c1) shows an intermediate state. [0277] In Figs. 53 (a1) and (b1), the L2 axis of the coupling 4150 is pre-inclined in the mounting direction X4 relative to the L1 axis (angular position of the pre-meshing). As a result of the slope of the coupling 4150, the position 4150a1 of the free end, counting toward the axis L1, is closer to the photosensitive drum 107 than the free end 180b3. Furthermore, the position 4150a2 of the free end is closer to the pin 182 than the free end 180b3. In other words, as described above, the flange portion 4150j of the coupling 4150 is pressed by the pressure element 4159. Accordingly, the L2 axis is inclined relative to the L1 axis under the action of its clamping force [0278] Then, when the insert B moves in the assembly X4 direction, the free end surface 180b or the free end (main coupling part on the mounting side) of the mandrel (exerting part) rotational force) 182 contacts the receiving surface 4150f of the output drive shaft or projection 4150d of the 4150 clutch (contact portion on the cartridge side). Fig. 53 (c1) shows the state in which the pin
182 is in contact with the settling surface 4150f. At the same time, the L2 axis approaches in a direction parallel to the L1 axis under the action of the clamping force (insert clamping force). At the same time, the pressing part 4150j1 pressed by the spring force of the spring 4159 contained in the flange part 4150j moves in the compression direction of the spring 4159. And, finally, the L1 axis and the L2 axis are aligned, and the clutch 4150 is in the ready position for the transmission of rotational force ( FIG. 53 (a2, b2) (angular position of rotational force transmission)).
[0279] As in Reaiization 1, the rotational force is transmitted from the engine 186 to the clutch 4150, bolt 155, drum shaft 153 and drum 107 via drive shaft 180. During rotation, the bias force of the pressure element 4159 acts on the clutch 4150. However, , as described above, the biasing force of the pressure element 4159 acts on the coupling 4150 via the contact member 4160. Therefore, the coupling 4150 can be rotated without a heavy load. Furthermore, the contact member 4160 may not be used if the driving torque of the motor 186 is large enough. In this case, the clutch 4150 can transmit high-precision rotational force even if the contact member 4160 is not used.
[0280] In addition, in a process in which the B insert is removed from the main component assembly A, a step opposite to the assembly stage occurs, in other words, the coupling 4150 is normally pressured in the direction of assembly X4 exerted by the pressure element 4159. W therefore, in the method of disassembling the cartridge B, the receiving surface 4150f contacts the wax with the end portion 182a of the mandrel 182 on the side opposite the direction of assembly X4 (Figure 53 (c1)). In addition, it is necessary to use a gap n50 between the free end 180b of the mounting surface 4150f and the propeller shaft 180 in the direction of assembly X4. In the implementations described above, in the disassembly process of the cartridge, the settling surface 150f or projection 150d on the coupling side in the direction of assembly X4 has been described as being in contact at least (e.g., Fig. 25) with the free end portion 180b of the drive shaft 180. However, as in the present embodiment, the settling surface 150f or projection 4150d located on the coupling side in the direction of assembly X4 do not contact the free end portion 180b of the drive shaft 180, but according to the removal operation of the B cartridge, the coupling 4150 can be detached from the shaft propulsion 180. At the same time, even after the coupling 4150 has moved away from the drive shaft 180, under the action of the pressing force of the pressure element 4159, the L2 axis deflects in the direction of assembly X4 relative to the L1 axis (angular disconnection position). In particular, in this embodiment, the angle corresponding to the angular position of the pre-meshing and the angle corresponding to the angular position of the disengagement, relative to the L1 axis are mutually equivalent. This is because the 4150 clutch is pressed by the spring's spring force.
[0281] Furthermore, the pressure element 4159 has the function of tilting the L2 axis, and furthermore performs the function of adjusting the tilting direction of the clutch 4150. In particular, the pressure element 4159 also functions as an adjustment means for adjusting the tilting direction of the clutch 4150, [0282] As described above, in this embodiment, the clutch 4150 is pressed by the spring force of the pressure element 4159 located in the support member 4157. As a result, the L2 axis is inclined relative to the LI axis. Therefore, the slope of the 4150 clutch is maintained. Thus, the 4150 clutch can be reliably coupled to the propeller shaft 180.
[0283] The pressure element 4159 described in this reaiization is located in the rib 4157e of the support member 4157. However, the present implementation is not limited to this example. For example, it may be another part of the support member 4157 or it may be any member attached to the cartridge B (except the support member).
[0284] Furthermore, in this implementation, the direction of pressure element 4159 is the direction of the axis L1. However, the direction of operation can be any direction if the L2 axis tilts in the direction of the X4 direction of the insert B assembly.
[0285] Also, for tilting the clutch 4150 with greater reliability in the direction of assembly of the cartridge B, the adjusting portion for adjusting the clutch's tilting direction can be placed in the process cartridge (Fig. 31).
[0286] Furthermore, in this implementation, the location of the pressure element 4159 is in the flange portion 4150j. However, the position of the coupling can be arbitrary if the L2 axis is inclined in the direction of mounting the cassette.
[0287] Furthermore, the present implementation can be implemented in combination with Implementation 4. In this case, the assembly and disassembly of the clutch can be even more reliable.
[Implementation 6] [0288] In the following with reference to Figs. 54-Figs. 58, a sixth embodiment of the present invention is described.
[0289] In this embodiment, other means are described for maintaining the state in which the L1 axis is inclined relative to the L1 axis.
[0290] Fig. 54 is a perspective view of the process cartridge according to this embodiment. Fig. 55 is an enlarged side view from the driving side of the cartridge. Fig. 56 is a schematic longitudinal section of the drum shaft, clutch, and support member. Fig. 57 is a longitudinal section that illustrates the operation of installing the clutch relative to the drive shaft. Fig. 58 is a cross-sectional view that shows a modified embodiment of the clutch locking member.
[0291] As shown in Fig. 54 and Fig. 56, the drum support member 5157 is equipped with a clutch locking member 5157k. When assembling the carrier member 5157 toward the axis L1, the portion of the locking surface 5157k1 of the locking member 5157k engages with the top surface 5150j1 of the flange portion 5150j by contacting the sloping surface 5150m of the 5150 clutch. At the same time, the flange portion 5150j is supported with a clearance (angle a49), in the direction of rotation, between the locking surface 5157k1 of the locking portion 5157k and the part 153a of the round column shaft drum 153, Leaving this clearance (angle a49) gives additional effects. In particular, even if the dimensions of the coupling 5150, support member 5157 and drum shaft 153 vary within their tolerances, the upper surface 5150J1 can be reliably locked in the locking face 5157k1.
[0292] In this case, as shown in Fig. 56 (a), as in the case of the L2 axis, the side of the driven part 5150a relative to the L1 axis is inclined in the direction of assembly (4x) of the insert. In addition, since the flange part 5150j exists around the entire circumference, it can persist regardless of the phase of the 5150 clutch. In addition, as described in relation to implementation 1, the 5150 clutch can be tilted in the mounting direction X4 by only the control part 5157h1 or 5157h2 (fig. 55), as a means of adjustment, In addition, in this implementation, the clutch locking member 5157k is maximally spaced away in the (4x) mounting direction of the cartridge.
[0293] As described later below, in a state in which the clutch 5150 is in meshing with the propeller shaft 180, the flange portion 5150j is released from the locking member 5157k, as shown in Fig. 56 (b). At the same time, the 5150 clutch is released from the 5157k locking member. When it is not possible to maintain the inclination of the clutch 5150 when mounting the support member 5157, the clutch driven portion 5150a is pushed by a tool and the like (Fig. 56 (b), arrow Χ14). In this way, it is possible to easily restore the clutch slope 5150 (Fig. 56 (a)). [0294] In addition, a 5157m rib is used to protect the user from easily touching the clutch. The 5157m rib is set essentially at the same height as the free end position of the clutch in the inclined state (Fig. 56 (a)). In the following, referring to Fig. 57, the operation (part of the cartridge insertion operation) of coupling the 5150 clutch to the propeller shaft 180 is described. 57 (a) the state of the clutch is shown immediately before meshing, (b) shows the state after the drive shaft 180 passes by the coupling parts 5150, (c) shows the state in which the slope of the clutch 5150 is released by the driving shaft 180, and (d) shows the state of meshing .
[0295] In states (a) and (b), the L2 axis of the clutch 5150 is initially (in the angular position of the pre-meshing) inclined in the direction of assembly X4 relative to the L1 axis earlier. With the slope of the clutch 5150, the free end position 5150A1 is closer to the photosensitive drum than the free end 180b3 towards the L1 axis. In addition, the free end position 5150a2 is closer to the pin 182 than the free end 180b3. In addition, as described above, simultaneously, the flange portion 5150j is in contact with the locking surface 5157k1, and the slope of the 5150 clutch is maintained.
[0296] Then, as shown in (C), the retaining surface 5150f or projection 5150D contacts the free end portion 180b or pin 182 as the insert B moves in the assembly X4 direction. The 5150j flange part is separated from the locking surface 5157k1 by contact force. The lock is released in relation to the support member 5157 of the 5150 clutch, and, in response to the insertion operation, the clutch is tilted so that its L2 axis becomes substantially aligned with the L1 axis. After passing the flange part 5150j, the locking member 5157k returns to previous position, under the influence of restoring force. During this time, the 5150 clutch is released from the 5157k blocking member. And finally, as shown in (d), the L1 axis and the L2 axis are aligned substantially in line, and the state of rotation readiness (angular position of the rotational force transmission) is determined. [0297] In addition, there is a step in the process similar to Implementation 1, in which the cartridge B is disassembled from the main device assembly A (Fig. 25). In particular, the 5150 clutch is shifted in the order (d), (c), (b) and (a) by moving in the direction X6 of disassembly of the cartridge. First, the free end portion 180b pushes the retaining surface 5150f (contact side on the cartridge side). As a result, the L2 axis inclines relative to the L1 axis, and the lower surface 5150j2 of the flange portion comes into contact with the inclined surface 5157k2 of the locking member 5157k. In this case, the flexible part 5157k3 of the locking member 5157k bends, and the free end 5157k4 of the locking surface extends from the inclination of the flange portion 5150j (Fig. 57 (c)). In addition, the flange portion 5150j and the locking surface 5157k1 are in contact with each other as the cartridge moves in the disassembly direction (X6). This causes the angle of inclination of the 5150 clutch to be maintained (Fig. 57 (b)). In particular, the 5150 clutch deflects (pendulum) from the angular position of the rotational force transmission to the angular disengagement position.
[0298] As described above, the angular position of the clutch 5150 is held by the locking member 5157k. As a result, the angle of inclination of the clutch is maintained. Therefore, the 5150 clutch can be reliably coupled to the propeller shaft. Furthermore, during rotation, the blocking member 5157k is not in contact with the 5150 coupling. Therefore, it is possible to achieve stabilized rotation with the 5150 coupling.
[0299] The clutch movement shown in Figs. 56, 57 and 58 may include a spinning motion.
[0300] In this embodiment, the flocking member 5157k is provided with a flexible part. However, it can be a rib that has no elastic part. In particular, the degree of coupling between the locking member 5157k and the flange portion 5150j is reduced. As a result, a similar effect can be obtained by slightly deforming the flange portion 5150j (Fig. 58 (a)).
[0301] Furthermore, the locking member 5157k is located far in the direction of assembly X4. However, if it is possible to maintain the slope in the predetermined direction of the L2 axis, then the position of the locking member 5157k can be arbitrary.
[0302] Figs. 58 (b) and (c) illustrate an example in which the clutch locking parts, 5357k (Fig. (58b)) and 5457k (Fig. 58c) are on the opposite side to the X4 assembly direction.
[0303] Furthermore, the blocking member 5157k was formed by part of the support member 5157 in the embodiment described above. However, if the locking member 5157k is attached to cartridge B, it may be formed as part of a component other than the support member. In addition, the locking member may be a separate element.
[0304] Furthermore, the present implementation can be implemented by Implementation 4 or Implementation 5. In this case, the assembly and disassembly operation is carried out with greater clutch reliability.
[Implementation 7] [0305] In the following with reference to Figs. 59-Figs. 62, a seventh embodiment of the present invention is described.
[0306] Other means for maintaining the clutch axis in a tilted state relative to the axis of the photosensitive drum are described in this implementation.
[0307] Fig. 59 is a perspective view that shows the state after the magnet (characteristic of the present embodiment) is mounted on the drum support member. Fig. 60 is an exploded perspective view. Fig. 61 is an enlarged perspective view of the main part on the driving side of the cartridge. Fig. 62 is a perspective view and longitudinal section that shows the drive shaft and the meshing condition with the coupling.
[0308] As shown in Fig. 59, the drum carrier 8157 includes space 8157b that surrounds a portion of the clutch. Magnet 8159 as a holding part, to maintain the slope of the clutch 8150, is mounted on the cylindrical surface 8157i, which is its space. In addition, as shown in Fig. 59, magnet 8159 is located on the opposite side with respect to the X4 direction of mounting the cylindrical surface 8157i. As described later, this magnet 8159 is intended to temporarily maintain a state in which the L2 axis is inclined relative to the L1 axis. At the same time, the coupling part is made of magnetic material. This clutch part is attracted to magnet 8159 by the magnetic force of magnet 8159. In this embodiment, essentially the entire circumference of the flange portion 8150j is made of metallic magnetic material 8160. In other words, as shown in Fig. 61, flange portion 8150j contacts this magnet 8159 via magnetic force. As a result, the L2 axis is tilted in the (4x) mounting direction of the cartridge relative to the L1 axis (Fig. 62 (A1)). As in the case of Implementation 1 (fig. 31), in the supporting member 8157, preferably, a regulating rib 8157h is arranged. When using the 8157h fin, the 8150 clutch direction is more reliably determined. In this connection, also the flange portion 8150j made of magnetic material and magnet 8159 can contact each other with greater reliability. The assembly method of the 8150 coupling is described below with reference to Fig. 60.
[0309] As shown in Fig. 60, the pin 155 enters the reserve space 8150g of the clutch 8150, and part of the clutch 8150 is introduced into the space 8157b of the drum support member 8157. Preferably, the distance D12 between the inner surface end 8157e of the retaining rib of the support member 8157 and the magnet 8159 is greater than the maximum outer diameter ΦΟ10 of the driven portion 8150a. Furthermore, the distance D12 is smaller than the maximum outer diameter ΦΩ11 of the driving part 8150b. Due to this, the support member 8157 can be mounted straight. This improves the mounting properties. This implementation is not limited to this relationship.
[0310] In the following, with reference to Fig. 62, a coupling operation (part of a cartridge deposition operation) for meshing the clutch 8150 with a drive shaft 180 is described. Fig. 62 (a1) and (b1) illustrate the state immediately before meshing, and Fig. 62 ( a2) and (b2) show the state after engagement.
[0311] As shown in Figs. 62 (a1) and (b1), the L2 axis of the 8150 clutch is pre-inclined in the direction of assembly X4 relative to the L1 axis by the force of the magnet (retaining member) 8159 (angular position of the pre-toothing ).
[0312] Next, the free end surface 180b or free end of the pin 182 comes into contact with the bearing surface 8150f of the coupling shaft 8150 under the action of the insert B moving in the mounting direction X4. At the same time, due to the pressure (assembly force of the insert), the L2 axis reaches such a position that it can be aligned substantially with the L1 axis. At the same time, the 8150j flange part separates from the 8159 magnet and is in a non-contact state. Finally, the L1 axis and the L2 axis align in principle. In this case, the clutch 8150 is in a state of rotation with latency (Fig. 62 (a2), Fig. (B2)) (angular position of the rotational force transmission).
[0313] The movement shown in Fig. 62 may include vortex motion.
[0314] As described above, in this embodiment, the L2 axis tilt condition is maintained by the magnetic force of the magnet 8159 (retaining member) mounted on the support member 8157, This ensures more reliable engagement of the coupling with the drive shaft.
(Implementation 8] [0315] Hereinafter, with reference to Figs. 63-Fig. 68, an eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
[0316] In this embodiment, other means are described for maintaining the state in which the L2 axis is inclined relative to the L1 axis.
[0317] Fig. 63 is a perspective view that shows the driving side of the cartridge. Fig. 64 is an exploded perspective view that shows the state prior to mounting the drum support member. Figure 65 is a schematic longitudinal section of the drum shaft, clutch, and drum support member. Fig. 66 is a perspective view that shows the driving side of the main mounting guide of the device. FIG. 67 is a longitudinal section that shows the detachment of the locking member. Fig. 68 is a longitudinal cross section that illustrates the engagement operation of the coupling with the drive shaft.
[0318] As shown in Fig. 63, the clutch 6150 is inclined in the mounting direction (X4), by the locking member 6159 and spring element 6158.
[0319] Initially, with reference to Fig. 64, the drum support member 6157, locking member 6159 and spring member 6158 are described. Support member 6157 has an opening 6157v. Bore 6157v and locking portion (locking member) 6159a mesh with each other. This causes the free end 6259a1 of the blocking portion 6159a to protrude into the portion 6157b of the support member 6157. As described hereinafter, through this locking portion 6159a clutch 6150 is maintained in inclination, Locking member 6159 is mounted inside the space 6157p of support member 6157. Spring element 6158 is installed at bead 6157m of hole 6159b and support member 6157. Spring element 6158 in this reaiization it uses a helical compression spring which has a spring force (elasticity force) of about 50g-300g. However, if it is a spring that produces a specific elastic force, any spring may be used. In addition, locking member 6159 can be moved in assembly direction X4 by meshing in slot 6159d on rib 6157k.
[0320] When the cartridge S is outside the main component A (a state in which the cartridge B is not mounted to the main component A), the clutch 6150 is in an inclined state. In this condition, the free end 6259a1 of the portion of the locking member 6159 is in the range T2 of the movable (hatched) portion of the flange portion 6150j. Fig. 64 (a) shows the position of the clutch 6150. Due to this, the clutch slope orientation can be maintained. In addition, the locking member 6159 is pushed against the outer surface 6157q (fig, 64 (b)) of the support member 6157 as far as possible by the elastic force of the spring element 6158. Thus, it is possible to maintain a constant orientation of the clutch 6150 To engage clutch 6150 with drive shaft 180, this lock is released, allowing the L2 axis to tilt. In other words, as shown in Fig. 65 (b), the free end 6259a1 of the blocking part moves in the direction Χ12 withdrawing from the range T2 of the movability of the flange part 6150j.
[0321] The following description relates to releasing the blocking member 6159.
[0322] As shown in Fig. 66, main guide assembly 6130R1 is equipped with a lock release member 6131. When mounting the insert B to the main component assembly A, the release member 6131 and the locking member 6159 engage with each other. In this way, the position of the locking member 6159 in the B cartridge changes. Therefore, the clutch 6150 becomes articulated.
[0323] In the following, referring to Fig. 67, the release of the locking member 6159 is described. When in motion position 6150A1 of the free end of the coupling 6150 approaches the free end of the shaft 180b3 in the X4 direction of mounting the insert B, the release member 6131 and the locking member 6159 engage together. At this time, the rib 6131 a of the release member 6131 (contact part) and the hook part 6159c of the locking member 6159 (the poignant part) are in contact with each other. This causes the position of the locking member 6159 inside the main component A to be fixed (b). Then, the free end 6259a1 of the blocking part is placed in the space part 6157b by a cartridge moving about 1-3 mm in the assembly direction. In this regard, drive shaft 180 and clutch 6150 can mesh with each other, and clutch 6150 is in a state (c) that allows deflection (articulation).
[0324] In the following, with reference to Fig. 68, the operation of the clutch relative to the drive shaft and the position of the locking member are described.
[0325] In the state of Fig. 68 (a) and (b), the L2 axis of the clutch 6150 is pre-inclined in the direction of assembly X4 relative to the L1 axis earlier (angular position of the pre-meshing). At this time, with respect to the L1 axis direction, the free end position 6150A1 is closer to the photosensitive drum 107 than the free end 180b3 of the shaft, and the position 6150A2 of the free end is closer to the pin 182 than the free end of shaft 180b3. In the state (a), the blocking member (force-absorbing part) 6159 is engaged in the state of receiving the force from the release member of the lock (contact part) 6131. A, in the state (b), the free end 6259a1 of the blocking part retracts the space portion 6157b. As a result, the clutch 6150 is released from the hold state. In particular, the 6150 clutch becomes oscillating (articulated).
[0326] Then, as shown in (c), when the insert is moving in the direction of assembly X4, the drive shaft of the mounting surface 6150f of the clutch 6150 (contact part on the cartridge side) or projection 6150d contacts the free end portion 180b or bolt 182. I , in response to the motion of the cartridge, the L2 axis approaches such that it can substantially align with the L1 axis, and, finally, as shown in (d), the L1 axis and the L2 axis are substantially collinear. As a result, the clutch 6150 is in a state of rotation (torque rotation).
[0327] The time distribution on retraction of the blocking member 6159 is as follows. In particular, after passing the free end position 6150A1 through the free end of shaft 180b3, and before the contact surface 6150f or projection 6150d contacts the free end portion 180b or pin 182, the blocking member 6159 retracts. In this way, the 6150 clutch is not overloaded and a reliable assembly operation is carried out. The settlement surface 6150f has a conical shape.
[0328] Furthermore, when removing the B cartridge from the main component assembly A, there is a reverse step to the assembly step. In particular, when moving the cartridge B towards disassembly, the free end shaft portion 180b (coupling portion of the main unit side) 180 pushes the seat surface 6150f (contact portion of the side of the cartridge). As a result, the L2 axis begins (Fig. 68 (c)) to tilt relative to the L1 axis. The coupling 6150 completely passes the free end 180b3 of the shaft (Fig. 68 (b)). Immediately after this, the hook part 6159c moves away from the rib 6131a. In this case, the free end 6259a1 of the blocking part comes into contact with the lower surface 6150j2 of the flange part. Thus, the slope of the clutch 6150 persists (Fig. 68 (a)). In particular, the clutch 6150 is pivoted (switched) from the angular position of the rotational force transmission to the angular disengagement position. [0329] The clutch movement shown in Figures 67 and 88 may include a spinning motion.
[0330] As described above, the locking element 6159 maintains the angular position of the clutch 6150. Thus, the condition of the skew of the clutch is maintained. Therefore, the 6150 clutch is mounted with greater reliability compared to the drive shaft 180. Also, during rotation, the locking element 6159 does not contact the 6150 coupling. Therefore, the 6150 clutch can perform a more stable rotation.
[0331] In the embodiment described above, the locking member is disposed on the side opposite the assembly direction. However, the position of the locking element can be arbitrary if the slope is maintained in the designated direction of the clutch axis.
[0332] In addition, it is possible to implement the present implementation together with Projects 4-7. In this case, it is possible to provide assembly and disassembly operations for the clutch.
[Implementation 9] [0333] In the following with reference to Figs. 69 — Figs. 73, a ninth embodiment of the present invention is described.
[0334] In this embodiment, other means are described for tilting the L2 axis with respect to the L1 axis.
[0335] Fig. 69 is an enlarged side view from the driving side of the cartridge. Fig. 70 is a perspective view that shows the main mounting guide of the device from the drive side. Fig. 71 is a side view that illustrates the relationship between the cartridge and the main mounting guide. Fig. 72 is a side view and a perspective view that illustrate the relationship between the main guide and the clutch. Fig. 73 is a side view that shows the method of attachment.
[0336] Figs. 69 (A1) and Fig. 69 (B1) are side views of the container (drive shaft side) and Figs. 69 (a2) and Fig. 69 (b2) are side views of the drive shaft (opposite pages) of the contribution. As shown in fig. 69, in a condition that allows pivoting in the direction of installation (X4), the clutch 7150 is attached to the support member 7157 of the drum. In addition, as regards the tilt direction, as described in reference to Implementation 1, tilting is only possible in the direction of installation direction X4 through the fixing rib (adjusting means) 7157e. In addition, in Fig. 69 (b1), the L2 axis of the 7150 clutch slopes at an angle αδΟ with respect to the horizontal line. The reason why the 7150 clutch tilts at an angle of q60 is as follows. In the 7150j flange part of the 7150 clutch, the adjustment takes place by means of the adjusting part 7157h1 or 7157h2 as a regulating means. Therefore, the front side (in the installation direction) of the 7150 clutch can pivot in an upward inclined direction at an angle of a60.
[0337] In the following, with reference to Fig. 70, the main mounting guide 7130R is described. Main mounting guide 7130R1 includes a guide rib 7130R1a to guide insert B through coupling 7150, and positioning parts 7130R1e, 7130R1f insert. The 7130R1a rib is where the B cartridge is attached. At the same time, the 7130R1a rib extends almost to the point just in front of the drive shaft 180 in the direction of mounting the cartridge. The 7130R1b rib adjacent to drive shaft 180 has a height suitable to avoid collision when the 7150 clutch engages with drive shaft 180. The main mounting guide 7130R2 mainly includes a guide part 7130R2a and a part 7130R2c for positioning the cartridge to determine orientation while installing the cartridge B1 frame of the insert.
[0338] The relationship between the main mounting guide 7130R and the cartridge will be described below when assembling the cartridge.
[0339] As shown in Fig. 71 (a), on the driving side, while the coupling portion 7150c (force absorbing portion) of the clutch 7150 contacts the guide rib (contact portion) 7130R1a, the cartridge B moves. At this time, the guide 7157a of the carrier member insert 7157 is separated from the guide surface 7130R1c by a distance of n59. Therefore, the mass of the B insert is added to the 7150 clutch. In addition, on the other hand, as described above, the clutch 7150 is positioned so that it can tilt upwards by an angle a60 relative to the assembly direction (X4). Thus, the driven part 7150a of clutch 7150 is inclined in the direction of assembly X4 (inclined at an angle a60 of assembly direction) (Fig. 72).
[0340] The reason for the slope of the clutch 7150 is as follows. The connecting part 7150c takes over from the guide zebra 7130R1a a reaction force corresponding to the weight of the insert B. The reaction force is applied to the adjusting part 7157h 1 or 7157h2 to regulate the deflection direction. As a result, the clutch is deflected upwards in a predetermined direction, [0341] Here, when the connecting part 7150c moves on the guide rib 7130R1a, there is friction between the connecting part 7150c and the guide rib 7130R1a. Therefore, due to the frictional force, the 7150 clutch absorbs the force in the opposite direction to the X4 assembly direction. However, the friction force generated due to the coefficient of friction between the connecting part 7150c and the guide rib 7130R1a is less than the force when the 7150 clutch deflects in the assembly direction X4 by the reaction force. Therefore, the 7150 clutch defeats in the direction of assembly X4 by overcoming the frictional force.
[0342] The adjusting portion 7157p (Fig. 69) of the support member 7157 can be used as an adjusting means to adjust the angle of inclination. This makes it possible to adjust the direction of the clutch's inclination in various positions relative to the direction of the axis L2 by means of the adjusting parts 7157h1, 7157h2 (Fig. 69), and adjusting part 7157p. This allows more reliable adjustment of the direction in which the 7150 clutch is inclined. At the same time, it can always be tilted at an angle of approximately a60. However, adjustment of the inclination direction of the 7150 clutch can be performed by other means.
[0343] Furthermore, the guide rib 7130R1a is located in the space 7150s formed by the driven portion 7150a, the driving portion 7150b and the connecting portion 7150c. Thus, in the assembly process, the longitudinal position (axis direction L2) of the 7150 clutch in the inner part of the main component assembly A is adjustable (Fig. 71). With longitudinal adjustment of clutch position 7150, clutch 7150 can be more reliably meshed with the propeller shaft 180.
[0344] The meshing operation for coupling the 7150 coupling to the drive shaft 180 is described below. The meshing operation is essentially the same as in Implementation 1 (Fig. 22). Here, with reference to Fig. 73, the relationship between main mounting guide 7130R2, support member 7157 and coupling 7150 is described in a process in which the coupling engages with the propeller shaft 180. As long as the connection portion 7150c contacts the rib up to 7130R1a, the cartridge guide 7157a is separated from the guide surface 7130R1c. As a result, the clutch 7150 is inclined (Fig. 73 (a), Fig. 73 (d)) (angular position of the pre-meshing). While passing the free end 7150A1 of the inclined clutch 7150 next to the free end 180b3 of the shaft, the connecting portion 7150c is moved away from the guide rib 7130R1a (Fig. 73 (b), Fig. 73 (e)). At this time, the cartridge guide 7157a passes the guide surface 7130R1c, and its inclined surface 7130R1d begins to contact the positioning surface 7130R1e (Fig. 73 (b), Fig. 73 (e)). After this, the settling surface 7150f or projection 7150d comes into contact with the free end portion 180b or the pin 182. As a result of the cartridge assembly operation, the L2 axis is aligned substantially with the L1 axis, the center of the drum shaft and the center of the clutch are in line. . And finally, as shown in Fig. 73 (c) and Fig. 73 (f), the L1 axis and the L2 axis are collinear with each other, and the clutch 7150 is in a state of rotational latency (angular position of rotational force transmission).
[0345] In this process, in the process of removing the insert B from the main device assembly A, a step substantially opposite to the engagement operation is carried out. In other words, cartridge B moves in the direction of disassembly. At the same time, the free end portion 180b presses against the settling surface 7150f. As a result, the L2 axis begins to tilt relative to the L1 axis. The free end part 7150A1 on the side opposite to the direction of disassembly, when disassembling the insert, moves at the free end 180b of the shaft, and the axis L2 slopes until the top of the free end A1 reaches the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft. In this state (Fig. 73 (b)). coupling, 7150 completely passes the free end of shaft 180b3. Then, the coupling portion 7150c of the clutch 7150 contacts the rib 7130R1a. As a result, the clutch 7150 is removed in an inclined state in the direction of assembly. In other words, the clutch 5150 is rotated (swung) from the angular position of the rotational force transmission to the angular disengagement position.
[0346] As described above, the clutch deflects when the user mounts the cartridge to the main assembly, and meshes with the drive shaft of the main assembly. In addition, no special measures are needed to maintain clutch orientation. However, in this implementation, the structure of maintaining orientation can be used, as in Projects 4-8.
[0347] In this embodiment, the clutch is inclined in the mounting direction by the weight of the guide rib. However, it is possible to use not only the weight, but also the spring force, etc. [0348] In this embodiment, the clutch is inclined by the coupling part of the force-absorbing clutch. However, this embodiment is not limited to this example. For example, if the clutch is inclined when the force is received from the contact portion of the main assembly, the non-coupling portion may contact the contact portion.
[0349] Furthermore, the present implementation may be implemented in any of Implementations 4 - 8. In this case, both coupling and disengagement of the coupling and the drive shaft may be provided.
[Implementation 10] [0350] In the following, with reference to Figs. 74 - 81, a tenth embodiment of the present invention will be described. [0351] In this embodiment, other means for tilting axis I2 with respect to axis 11 are described.
[0352] Fig. 74 is a perspective view that shows the driving side of the main component assembly.
[0353] Referring to Fig. 74, a main mounting guide and clutch pressure means are described. [0354] The present embodiment is used effectively when the friction force described in Implementation 9 would be greater than the tilting force of the clutch 7150 in the direction of assembly (X4) caused by the reaction force. In particular, for example, according to this embodiment, even when the friction force is increased by friction on the connecting part or main mounting guide, the clutch can be reliably rotated to the angular position of the pre-meshing. The main mounting guide 1130R1 includes a guide surface 1130R1b for guiding the insert B in the cartridge guide 140R1 (Fig. 2), a guide rib 1130R1C that guides the clutch 150, and a cartridge positioning part 1130R1a. The guide rib 1130R1c is located in the seat of the container B. At the same time, the guide rib 1130R1c extends almost to the drive shaft 180 in the direction of mounting the cartridge. Furthermore, the rib 1130R1d adjacent to the propeller shaft 180 has a height that does not interfere with the engagement of the clutch 150.
[0355] Part of rib 1130R1c is cut off. The slider 1131 of the main mounting guide is fixed to the rib 113091 in a slidable manner in the direction of the arrow W. The slider 1131 is pressed by the elastic force of the compression spring 1132. The position is determined by the slider 1131 resting on the abutment surface 1130R1e of the main mounting guide 1130R1 . In this state, the slider 1131 projects from the guide rib 1130R1c.
[0356] The main mounting guide 1130R2 has a guide portion 1130R2b for determining orientation during assembly of the cartridge B, by guiding the portion of the B1 frames of the cartridge, and the positioning portion of the cartridge 1130R2a.
[0357] In the following, with reference to Figs. 75 - 77, the relationship of the main mounting guide 1130R1, 1130R2, slider 1131, and the B cartridge are described when mounting the cartridge. Fig. 75 is a side view, from the drive shaft side 180 of the main assembly (Figs. 1 and 2), and Fig. 76 is a perspective view thereof. Fig. 77 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line ZZ in Fig. 75.
[0358] As shown in Fig. 75, on the driving side, when the cartridge guide 140R1 touches the guide surface of the cartridge up to 1130R1 b, the cartridge moves. At this point, as shown in Fig. 77, the connection portion 150C moves away from the guide rib 1130R1c by n1. Thus, no force is exerted on clutch 150. At this time, as shown in Fig. 75, the clutch 150 is limited by the adjustment portion 140R1a at the upper surface and to the left. Therefore, the coupling 150 can freely rotate only in the mounting direction (X4).
[0359] Referring to FIGS. 78- FIG. 81, the displacement of the slider 1131 from the excitation position to the retracted position when the clutch 150 contacts the slider 1131 is described below. In FIG. 78 - FIG. 79, the clutch 150 contacts the apex. 1131b of slider 1131, more specifically, slider 1131 is in the retracted position. The connecting part 150c and the sloped surface of the projection 1131 and the slider 1131 are in contact only with the swinging rotation of the coupling 150 in the assembly direction (X4). In this process, the slider 1131 is pressed and moves into the retracted position.
[0360] Referring to FIGS. 80- FIG. 81, the operation after the clutch 150 passes through the tip 1131 b of the slider 1131 is described below. The state after the clutch 150 passes through the top 1131 b of the slider 1131 is illustrated in FIGS. 80 - FIG. 81.
[0361] When the clutch 150 passes through the top 1131 b, the slider 1131 tends to return from the retracted position to the excited position, under the action of the elastic force exerted by the compression spring 132. In this case, a portion of the coupling portion 150c of the clutch 150 absorbs the force F from the inclined surface 1131c of the slider 1131. In particular, the inclined surface 1131c acts as a force exerting portion, and acts as a force transverse portion in the case of the coupling portion 150c that absorbs this force. As shown in Fig. 80, the force receiving portion is in front of the connection portion 150c in the direction of assembly of the cartridge. Therefore, it is possible to smoothly tilt the clutch 150. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 81, the force F is divided into the components of forces F1 and F2. At this time, the upper surface of the clutch 150 is adjusted by the adjustment part 140R1a. Accordingly, the clutch 150 is tilted in the mounting direction (X4) by the force component F2. In particular, the clutch 150 is inclined towards the angular position of the pre-toothing. Due to this, the clutch 150 obtains the possibility of meshing with the drive shaft 180.
[0362] In the embodiment described above, the coupling part absorbs the force, and the clutch is inclined. However, this embodiment is not limited to this example. For example, when the hook has the ability to rotate rotatably while acquiring force from the contact portion of the main assembly, non-coupling portion may contact the contact portion.
[0363] Furthermore, the present implementation can be implemented in conjunction with any of Implementations 4 - 9. In this case, both coupling and disengagement of the clutch and the drive shaft can be provided.
[Implementation 11J [0364] Referring to Figs. 82-84, the eleventh embodiment of the present invention is described below.
[0365] The present embodiment describes the configuration of the clutch. Figures 82 - Fig. 84 (a) are perspective views of the couplings, Figs. 82 - Fig. 84 (b) are sectional views of the couplings.
[0366] In previous implementations, the drive shaft mounting surface and the clutch drum bearing surface are conical in shape, respectively. In contrast, in this embodiment, various configurations are described.
[0367] The clutch 12150 shown in Fig. 82 mainly consists of three parts, similar to the clutch shown in Fig. 8. In particular, as shown in Fig. 82 (b), clutch 12150 includes a driving part 12150a for receiving drive shaft drive, drive part 12150b for transmitting drive to the drum shaft, and connection part 12150c that interconnect drive part 12150a and drive part 12150b with each other.
[0368] As shown in Fig. 82 (b), the driven part 12150a has a part 12150m with a hole for insertion of the propeller shaft, which as an extended part extends to the propeller shaft 180 relative to the axis L2, the driving part 12150b has a part 12150v with an opening for inserting a drum shaft which extends as an extended portion into the drum shaft 153. Bore 12150m and bore 12150v are formed by divergent drive shaft shaft surface 12150f and divergent drum bearing surface 12150i, respectively. Settling surface 12150f and settling surface 12150Ϊ have recesses 12150x, 12150z as shown in this figure. When transmitting rotational force, the recess 12150z is opposite the free end of the propeller shaft 180. In particular, recess 12150z surrounds the free end of drive shaft 180. [0369] Referring to Fig. 83, a coupling 12250 is described below. As shown in Fig. 83 (b), the driven part 12250a has a part 12250m with an opening for a drive shaft, in the form of an expanded part that extends to the propeller shaft 180 relative to the axis L2, the driving part 12250b has a part 12250v with a hole for the insertion of the drum shaft, in the form of parts expanded, which extends to the drum shaft 153 relative to the L2 axis.
[0370] The aperture 12250m and the aperture 12250v are formed, respectively, by a bearing surface 12250f of the bell-shaped drive shaft, and a bearing surface 12250i of the bell-shaped drum. The retaining surface 12250f and the retaining surface 12250i form recesses 12250x, 12250z as shown in this figure. During the transmission of rotational force, the recess 12250z engages with the free end portion of the drive shaft 180. In the following with reference to Fig. 84, the coupling 12350 is described. As shown in Fig. 84 (a), the driven portion 12350a includes projections 12350d1 or 12350d2 or 12350d3 and 12350d4 for receiving the drive, which are a direct extension of the coupling portion 12350c, and which diverge radially towards the drive shaft 180 towards the L2 axis. In addition, the portion between adjacent projections 12350d1-121350d4 is a reserve portion. In addition, surfaces 12350e (12350e1-E4) for absorbing rotational force (rotational force absorbing portion) are arranged on the opposite side to the X7 direction of rotation. During centrifugation, the rotational force is transmitted to the surface 12350e1-E4 receiving the rotational force from the pin (the part exerting the rotational force) 182. During the transmission of rotational force, the recess 12250z is located opposite the free end portion of the drive shaft, which is the projection of the main component assembly. In particular, recess 12250z surrounds the free end of drive shaft 180.
[0371] Furthermore, if a similar effect is anticipated as in Implementation 1, then the configuration of the opening 12350v can be any.
[0372] Furthermore, the installation method in the clutch cartridge is the same as in Implementation 1, and therefore its description is omitted. Furthermore, the operation of mounting the cartridge in the main device assembly and the operation of removing from the main device assembly are the same as in Implementation 1 (Figures 22 and 25), and therefore their description is omitted.
[0373] As described above, the bearing surface of the clutch drum has an expanding configuration, and the clutch can be mounted with a slope relative to the axis of the drum shaft. In addition, the mounting surface of the clutch drive shaft has an expanding configuration and can allow the clutch to be tilted, without interfering with the propeller shaft, in the assembly or disassembly of the B cartridge. As a result, also in this implementation, effects can be anticipated, as in the first or second implementation.
[0374] Furthermore, as to the shapes of the holes 12150m 12250m, and the holes 12150v 12250v, they may be a combination of divergent, bell shapes.
[Implementation 12] [0375] In the following, with reference to Fig. 85, the twelfth implementation of the present invention is described.
[0376] The present embodiment differs from Implementation 1 in the configuration of the clutch. Fig. 85 (a) is a perspective view of a clutch that has a substantially cylindrical shape, and Fig. 85 (b) is a cross-sectional view when the clutch installed in the cartridge engages the drive shaft.
[0377] The driving side edge of the clutch 9150 is provided with a set of driven projections 9150d. In addition, a drive receiving portion 9150k is disposed between the drive receiving projections 9150d. The projection 9150d is equipped with a surface 9150e for receiving rotational force (the part receiving the rotational force). As described below, the rotational force transfer pin 9182 (rotational force transfer portion) of the propeller shaft 9180 contacts the rotational force receiving surface 9150e. Through it, the rotational force is transmitted to the 9150 clutch.
[0378] In order to stabilize the operating torque on the clutch, it is advantageous if the surfaces of the set of surfaces receiving the rotational force surfaces 150e are arranged on the same circumference (virtual circle C1 in Fig. 8 (d)). With such a distribution, the radius of rotation force transmission is constant and the transmitted torque is stabilized. Furthermore, from the point of view of drive transmission stabilization, the receiving surfaces 9150e are preferably arranged in diametrically opposed positions (180 degrees). In addition, the number of receiving surfaces 9150e may be arbitrary if the drive shaft pin 9182 9180 can be located in the spare part 9150k. In this implementation, this number is two. The rotational force bearing surfaces 9150e may not be on the same circumference, or may not be positioned in diametrically opposed positions.
[0379] Furthermore, the cylindrical surface of the clutch 9150 is provided with a reserve hole 9150g, In addition, the hole 9150g is provided with a surface 9150h for transmitting rotational force (rotational force transmitting part), Drive transfer pin 9155 (rotational force transmitting member) (Fig. 85 ( b)) from the drum shaft, as described below, contacts this surface 9150h for transmitting rotational force. As a result, the rotational force is transmitted to the photosensitive drum 107.
[0380] Like the projection 9150d, the rotational force transmission surface 9150h is preferably diametrically opposed on the same circumference.
[0381] The drum shaft 9153 and the drive shaft 9180 are described below. In Embodiment 1, the cylindrical tip has a spherical surface. In this embodiment, however, the diameter of the spherical portion 9153b of the free end 9153 of the drum shaft is greater than the diameter of the main portion 9153a. Due to this design, even if the 9150 clutch is cylindrical, as shown in the drawing, it is movable oscillating relative to the axis L1. in other words, as shown, a gap g is arranged between the drum shaft 9153 and the 9150 clutch, so that the 9150 clutch is rotatable (wahyine) to the drum shaft 9153. The configuration of the drive shaft 9180 is essentially the same as that of drum shaft 9150 . In other words, the shape of the free end portion 9180b is a spherical shape and its diameter is greater than the diameter of the main cylindrical shape 9180a. In addition, a pin 9182 is used that passes substantially through the center of the free end portion 9180b, which is a spherical surface. Pin 9182 transmits the rotational force to the surface 9150e, which absorbs the rotational force of the 9150 clutch.
[0382] The drum shaft 9150 and the spherical surface of the propeller shaft 9180 are in mesh with the inner surface 9150p of the 9150 clutch. This determines the relative position between the drum shaft 9150 and the 9150 propeller shaft coupling 91. The operation regarding assembly and disassembly of the 9150 clutch is such same as Implementation 1, and therefore its description is omitted here.
[0383] As described above, the clutch has a cylindrical shape, and therefore, the position with respect to the direction perpendicular to the L2 axis direction of the 9150 clutch can be determined relative to the drum shaft or drive shaft. A modified example of the clutch is described below. In the 9250 clutch configuration shown in Fig. 85 (c), the cylindrical and conical shape are connected. Figure 85 (d) is a cross-sectional view of the clutch of this modified example. The driven portion 9250a of the clutch 9250 has a cylindrical shape, and its inner surface 9250p engages with the spherical surface of the drive shaft. In addition, it has a thrust surface 9250q and can affect the position relative to the axial direction between the clutch 9250 and the propeller shaft 180. The driving part 9250b has a conical shape, and, as in Implementation 1, the position relative to the drum shaft 153 is determined by drum support surface 9250i.
[0384] The coupling configuration 9350 shown in Fig. 85 (e) is a combination of a cylindrical shape and a conical shape. Fig. 85 (f) is a cross-sectional view of this modified example, wherein the driven 9350a clutch portion 9350 has a cylindrical shape and its internal surface 9350p engages the spherical surface of the propeller shaft 180. Positioning in the axial direction is done by contacting the spherical surface of the drive shaft with the edge portion 9350q formed between cylindrical parts of different diameters.
[0385] The configuration of the 9450 coupling shown in Fig. 85 (g) is a combination of a spherical surface, a cylindrical shape, and a conical shape. Figure 85 (h) is a cross-sectional view of this modified example in which the driven portion 9450a of the 9450 clutch has a cylindrical shape and its inner surface 9450p engages with the spherical surface of the drive shaft 180. The spherical surface of the propeller shaft 180 contacts the spherical surface 9450q which is part of this spherical surface. In this way, the position relative to the direction of the axis L2 can be determined.
[0386] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the clutch has a substantially cylindrical shape and the free end portions of the drum shaft or drive shaft have a spherical configuration. It is further described that its diameter is greater than the diameter of the main portion of the drum shaft or drive shaft. However, the present embodiment it is not limited to this example. The clutch is cylindrical, and the drum shaft or drive shaft is cylindrical, and the diameter of the drum or drive shaft is small relative to the inside diameter of the inside surface of the clutch within limits where the pin does not disengage from the clutch. Because of this, the clutch can rotate oscillating relative to the L1 axis. The clutch can be tilted without colliding with the drive shaft during assembly or removal operation of the B cartridge. Therefore, also in this embodiment, similar effects can be envisaged as in the case of Implementation 1 and 2.
[0387] Furthermore, in this embodiment, although a combination of a cylindrical shape and a cone shape has been described as an example of the configuration of the clutch, it may have an inverse configuration to that described in the example. In other words, on the drive shaft side it can be cone shaped and on the drum shaft side it can be cylindrical shape.
[Implementation 13] [0388] In the following, with reference to Figs. 86-88, a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
[0389] The present implementation differs from the Implementation 1 assembly operation in relation to the propeller shaft, clutch, and associated structure. Fig. 86 is a perspective view that shows the coupling configuration 10150 of the present embodiment. The configuration of the 10150 clutch is a combination of a cylindrical shape and a conical shape, which were described in Implementation 10, In addition, on the free face of the 10150 clutch there is a conical surface 10150r. In addition, the surface on the side of the receiving projection 10150d of the drive opposite to the direction of the axis L1 is provided with a surface 10150s for receiving pressure.
[0390] With reference to Fig. 87, the coupling structure is described below.
[0391] The inner surface 10150p, and the spherical surface 10153b of the shaft 10153 of the clutch drum 10150, are coupled to each other. A pressure surface 10634 is disposed between the receiving surface 10150s described above and the lower surface 10151 b of the drum flange 10151. As a result, the clutch 10150 is pushed toward the drive shaft 180. In addition, as in previous implementations, a locating rib 10157e is used in the flange portion 10150j located, relative to the direction of the L1 axis, on the side of the propeller shaft 180. This prevents the coupling of the 10150 from disengaging from the insert when the inner surface 10150p of the 10150 clutch is cylindrical. Therefore, it is movable in the direction of the L2 axis.
[0392] Fig. 88 is used to show the orientation of the clutch in the case where the clutch engages with the propeller shaft. Fig. 88 (a) is a cross-sectional view of the clutch 150 from Embodiment 1, and Fig. 88 (c) is a cross-sectional view of the clutch 10150 according to the present embodiment. In this case, Fig. 88 (b) shows a cross-sectional view before reaching the state of Fig. 88 (c) in the mounting direction, indicated by X4, and the L5 dotted line is a line running parallel to the fastening direction with the waxed end of the propeller shaft 180.
[0393] For the engagement of the coupling with the propeller shaft 180, the free end position 10150A1 must pass the free end portion 180b3 of the propeller shaft 180 in the mounting direction. In Implementation 1, the L2 axis deflects more than angle a104. This causes the clutch to move to a position where the free end position 150A1 does not interfere with the free end portion 180b3 (Fig. 88 (a)).
[0394] On the other hand, in the case of the clutch 10150 of the present embodiment, the clutch 10150, in a state in which it is not meshing with the propeller shaft 180, occupies the position closest to the propeller shaft 180 under the action of the return force of the pressure element 10634. In this condition, when it moves in the assembly X4 direction, some drive shafts 180 contact the insert B on the conical surface 10150r of coupling 10150 (fig. 88 (b)), At the same time a force is exerted on the conical surface 10150r in the opposite direction to X4, therefore the clutch 10150 is retracted in the longitudinal direction Χ11 under the action of this component of force. In this case, the free end portion 10153b of the drum shaft 10153 additionally abuts against the stop portion 101501 of the clutch 10150. In addition, the clutch 10150 rotates clockwise about the center P1 of the end portion 10153b (angular position of the pre-engagement). As a result, the free end position 10150A1 of the clutch passes the free end 180b of the propeller shaft 180 (Fig. 88 (c)). When the drive shaft 180 and drum shaft 10153 become substantially coaxial, the retaining surface 10150f of the clutch shaft 10150 comes into contact with the wax of the end portion 180b under the force of the compression spring 10634. As a result, the clutch goes into latency (Fig. 87). (angular position of rotational force transmission). With this design, the L2 axis motion and the rotational motion (biasing operation) are combined, and the clutch is moved from the angular position of the initial meshing to the angular position of the rotational force.
[0395] With this design, even if the angle a106 (L2 axis slope value) is small, the insert can be mounted to the main component assembly A. Therefore, little space is required for the pivoting movement of the 10150 clutch. Thus, the degree of freedom in the design of the main device assembly A.
[0396] The rotational motion for the drive shaft 180 of the clutch 10150 is the same as that of Implementation 1, and therefore its description is omitted here. When removing cartridge B from main component A, the free end portion 180b forces the cone-shaped seating surface 10150f of the drive shaft 10150. The 10150 clutch is deflected by this force, and retreating toward the L2 axis, is disconnected from the propeller shaft 180, In other words, the L2 axis displacement operation and the pivoting movement are connected (may include vortex movement), the clutch can be deflected from the position angular transmission of rotational force to the angular disconnected position.
[Implementation 14] [0397] Referring to Figs. 89-90, the fourteenth embodiment of the present invention is described below.
[0398] The point where the present implementation differs from the Implementation 1 is the engagement operation and the clutch drive shaft design related thereto.
[0399] Fig. 89 is a perspective view that shows only coupling 21150 and drum shaft 153. Fig. 90 is a longitudinal section seen from below of the main device assembly. As shown in Fig. 89, the magnetic element 21100 is mounted to the end of the driving part 21150a of the clutch 21150, the magnetic element 21100 is attached. The drive shaft 180 shown in Fig. 90 contains magnetic material. Therefore, in this embodiment, magnetic element 21100 is tilted in coupling 21150 by magnetic force acting between shaft 180 and this magnetic material.
[0400] First of all, as shown in Fig. 90 (a), at this time the clutch 21150 is not particularly inclined with respect to the drum shaft 153, the magnetic element 21100 is located in the driving part 21150a, on the side opposite the direction X4 assembly.
[0401] After being inserted into the position shown in Fig. 90 (b), the magnetic element 21100 is pulled towards the drive shaft 180. And, as shown, under its magnetic force the clutch 21150 begins to swing.
[0402] Then, in front of the assembly direction (X4), the end position 21150A1 of the clutch 21150 passes past the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft which has a spherical surface.
The retaining surface 21150f of the cone-shaped drive shaft or driven projection 21150d (contact part on the cartridge side), which is the recess 21150z of the coupling 21150 after contact, contacts the free end portion 180b or 182 (Fig. 90 (c)).
[0403] In this case, it slopes so that the L2 axis is aligned substantially with the L1 axis during the assembly operation of the B cartridge (Fig. 90 (d)).
[0404] Finally, the L1 axis and the L2 axis align essentially with each other. In this state, the recess 21150z includes the free end portion 180b. Clutch 21150 deflects rotationally on axis L2 from the angular position of the initial meshing to the angular position of the transmission of rotational force, so that it is essentially aligned with the axis along the axis L1. Clutch 21150 and drive shaft 180 are meshed with each other (Fig. 90 (e)).
[0405] Movement of the clutch of Fig. 90 may also include rotation.
[0406] It is necessary to arrange the magnetic element 21100 on the opposite side of the mounting direction X4 of the drive part 21150a.
[0407] Therefore, when mounting the insert B to the main component A, it is necessary to agree on the coupling phase 21150. The method described in relation to implementation 2 is useful in the method of duplicating the coupling phase.
[0408] The state of taking over the driving rotational force and the rotation after assembly is the same as in the case of Implementation 1 and therefore the description is omitted.
[Implementation 15] [0409] In the following, with reference to Fig. 91, the fifteenth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
[0410] The point at which this embodiment differs from Implementation 1 is the method of seating the clutch. In Implementation 1, the coupling L2 axis is pivotable, being located between the free end portion of the drum shaft and the retaining fin. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the coupling L2 axis is deflected only by the drum support member. This is described in more detail below.
[0411] Fig. 91 (a) is a perspective view that shows the condition of the clutch during assembly. Fig. 91 (b) shows its longitudinal section, Fig. 91 (c) is a perspective view that shows the state in which the L2 axis is inclined with respect to the L1 axis. Fig. 91 (d) shows its longitudinal section. Fig. 91 (e) is a perspective view that shows the state in which the clutch rotates. Fig. 91 (f) shows its longitudinal section.
[0412] In this embodiment, the drum shaft 153 is the location (d) in the space enclosed by the inner surface 11157b of the portion of the space of the drum carrier member 11157. In addition, rib 11157e and rib 11157p are on the inner surface opposite drum shaft 153 (in different positions relative to the direction of axis L1).
[0413] With this design, the flange portion 11150j and drum bearing surface 111501 are regulated by the inner end surface 11157p1 and the round columnar portion 11153a of the rib, in a state in which the L2 axis is inclined (Fig. 91 (d)). Here, the end surface 11157p1 is in the support member 11157. Furthermore, the round column portion 11153a is part of the drum shaft 11153. When the L2 axis is aligned substantially with the L1 axis (fig. 91 (f)), the flange portion 11150j and the conical outer surface 11150q are regulated by the outer end 11157p2 of the rib 11157e and the rib of the support member 11157.
[0414] Therefore, the clutch 11150 is held in the carrier 11157 by a suitably selected configuration of the support member 11157. In addition, the clutch 11150 can be articulated relative to the L1 axis.
[0415] Furthermore, the drum shaft 11153 has a transmission part only at its free end, and therefore the spherical part of the surface for adjusting the displacement of the clutch 11150 etc. is therefore not necessary, and thus drum processing shaft 11153 is easier.
[0416] Rib 11157e and rib 11157p are spaced apart. In this case, as shown in Fig. 91 (a) and Fig. 91 (b), the coupling 11150 is mounted in the support member 11157 in a slightly oblique direction (Χ12 in the drawing), in particular no special mounting method is needed. Then, the support member 11157, to which the coupling 11150 has been attached, is temporarily folded into the drum shaft 11153 (in the drawing in the direction Χ13).
[Implementation 16] [0417] In the following, with reference to Fig. 92, the sixteenth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
[0418] The point where the present implementation differs from the Implementation 1 is the method of mounting the clutch. In Implementation 1, the clutch is positioned between the free end portion and the drum shaft retaining fin. On the contrary, in this embodiment, the clutch is fixed by means of the pin 13155 transmitting the rotational force (the rotational member) of the drum shaft 13153. In particular, in this embodiment, holding the clutch 13150 is done by means of a pin 13155.
[0419] This is described in more detail below.
[0420] Fig. 92 shows a coupling held at the end of photosensitive drum 107 (cylindrical drum 107a). Part of the driving side of the photoconductor 107 is shown, others are omitted for simplicity.
[0421] In Fig. 92 (a), in this state the L2 axis is aligned substantially in line with the L1 axis, the clutch 13150, in the driven part 13150a, absorbs the rotational force from the drive shaft 180, the clutch 13150 transmits the rotational force to the photosensitive drum 107 .
[0422] In this case, as shown in Fig. 92 (b), the clutch 13150 is attached to the drum shaft 13153 so that it can deflect in any direction relative to the axis L1. The configuration of the driven part 13150a may be the same as the configuration of the driven part described with reference to Fig. 82 - in Fig. 85, and this photoconductor drum assembly U13 is mounted in the second frame as described in Implementation 1. When assembling and disassembling the B insert in relation to the main component A, the clutch can be meshed and disengaged from the drive shaft.
[0423] The assembly method of the present embodiment is described below. The free end (not shown) of shaft 13153 is surrounded by coupling 13150. Then, in a hole (not shown) of drum shaft 13153, a pin 13155 (rotational force member) is inserted in a direction perpendicular to the axis L1. In addition, the opposite ends of the pin 13155 extend outwardly beyond the inner surface of the flange portion 13150j. With these settings the bolt 13155 is protected against possible separation from the reserve hole 13150g. Thanks to this, it is not necessary to introduce a part to prevent the 13150 clutch from disengaging.
[0424] As mentioned above, according to the implementation described above, the drum assembly U13 consists of a cylindrical drum 107a, a coupling 13150, a photosensitive drum 107, a drum flange 13151, a shaft
13153 drum, drive pin 13155, etc. However, the structure of drum assembly U13 is not limited to this example.
[0425] As means of tilting the L2 axis to the angular position of the initial meshing, immediately prior to the meshing of the drive shaft coupling, for example, Implementations 3-10 described so far may be used.
[0426] Furthermore, the operation of engaging and disengaging the clutch with the drive shaft taking place in an interdependent relationship with the assembly and disassembly of the insert is the same as in Implementation 1, therefore, its description is omitted.
[0427] Furthermore, as described with reference to Implementation 1 (Fig. 31), the clutch's tilting direction is determined by the support member. As a result, the clutch can be more reliably meshed with the drive shaft.
[0428] For the structures described above, the clutch 13150 is part of the photosensitive drum assembly integral with the photosensitive drum. Therefore, manipulation is easy during assembly, and therefore better assembly properties can be achieved.
[Implementation 17] [0429] In the following, with reference to Fig. 93, the seventeenth embodiment of the present invention is described.
[0430] The point where the present implementation differs from the Implementation 1 is the clutch assembly method. In the case of Implementation 1, the clutch is fixed on the side of the drum end of the shaft, so that the L2 axis can be positioned obliquely in any direction relative to the L1 axis. In contrast, in the present embodiment, the coupling 15150 is directly attached to the end 107a of the cylindrical photosensitive drum 107 so that it can be angled in any direction.
[0431] This is described in more detail below.
[0432] Fig. 93 shows the assembly U of the electrophotographic photosensitive drum ("drum assembly"). The coupling 15150 is mounted on the end part of the photosensitive drum 107 (cylindrical drum 107a) in this figure. As with the OPC 107, part of the drive side is shown, and others are omitted for simplicity.
[0433] The L2 axis is essentially aligned with the L1 axis in Fig. 93 (a). In this condition, the clutch 15150 absorbs rotational force from the drive shaft 180 in the driven portion 15150a. The 15150 clutch transmits the absorbed rotational force to the photoconductor 107.
[0434] Fig. 93 (b) shows an example in which the coupling 15150 is mounted on the end portion 107a of the cylindrical photosensitive drum 107 so that it has the ability to be skewed in any direction. In this implementation, one end of the clutch is mounted not on the drum shaft (projection), but in the recess (rotational force transfer member) located in the end part of the cylinder 107a. The clutch 15150 can also rotate in any direction relative to the L1 axis. In the case of driven part 15150a, the configuration described in relation to Implementation 1 is shown, but it may be the configuration of the driven part of the clutch described in connection with Projects 10 or 11. At the same time, as described with reference to Implementation 1, this drum U assembly is positioned in the second frame 118 (drum frame), and is arranged as a detachably mounted insert in the main device assembly.
[0435] Thus, the drum U assembly is formed by coupling 15150, photosensitive drum 107 (cylindrical drum 107a), drum flange 15151, etc.
[0436] As for the structure for tilting the L2 axis towards the angular position of the pre-meshing, it is possible, just before meshing the clutch 15150 with the drive shaft 180, to use one of Reaiizations 3-9.
[0437] Furthermore, the meshing and disengaging operations of the clutch and drive shaft that are performed in dependence with the assembly and disassembly operations of the cartridge are the same as in Implementation 1. Therefore, their description is omitted.
[0438] Furthermore, as described with reference to Implementation 1 (Fig. 31), the drum support member is provided with adjusting means for adjusting the direction of clutch inclination relative to axis L1. As a result, the clutch can be more reliably meshed with the drive shaft.
[0439] With this design, the clutch can be mounted with the ability to be skewed, without the drum shaft as described above, in any direction relative to the photosensitive drum. This allows cost reduction to be achieved.
[0440] Furthermore, according to the above structure, coupling 15150 is part of the drum assemblies forming the photosensitive drum as the assembly. Therefore, in the case of an insert, assembly operations are easy, and assembly properties are better.
[0441] Hereinafter, the present implementation is further described with reference to Figures 94-105.
[0442] Figure 94 is a perspective view of the B-2 process cartridge that utilizes coupling 15150 according to the present Implementation. The outer periphery 15157a of the outer end of the drive member 15157 of the drum on the drive side acts as a guide 140R1 of the cartridge. [0443] In addition, at one of the longitudinal ends (on the driving side) of the second frame assembly 120, there is a cartridge guide 140R2 which extends outward substantially above the outwardly projecting cartridge guide 140R1.
[0444] Through these cartridge guides 140R1, 1402, and the cartridge guide (not shown) on the non-propelling side, the process cartridge is detachably supported in the main device assembly. In particular, the insert B is moved to the main component assembly in a direction perpendicular to the axis L3 of the propeller shaft 180 when it is mounted to or removed from the main component assembly A2.
[0445] Fig. 95 (a) is a perspective view of the coupling from the driving side, Fig. 95 (b) is a perspective view of the coupling from the photoconductive side and Fig. 95 (c) is a view of the coupling from a direction perpendicular to the axis L2 . Fig. 95 (d) is a side view of the coupling from the drive side, Fig. 95 (e) is a view from the photoconductive side, and Fig. 95 (f) is a cross-sectional view of S21-S21 in Fig. 95 (d).
[0446] The clutch 15150 is meshed with the propeller shaft 180 in a state in which the insert B is mounted to the installation section 130a located in the main component assembly A. When removing the insert B from the installation section 103a, it is detached from the propeller shaft 180. A in the state in which it is coupled to the propeller shaft 180, the clutch 15150 absorbs the rotational force from the motor 186, and transmits the rotational force to the photoconductor 107.
[0447] The clutch 15150 consists mainly of three parts (Fig. 95 (c)). The first part is the driven part (the part requiring driving) 15150a, which has a rotational force absorbing surface (rotational force absorbing part) 15150e (15150e1-15150e4) to engage with the drive shaft 180 and to absorb the rotational force from the pin 182. The second part is the driving part 15150b, which engages the drum flange 15151 (with the pin 15155 (a member assuming rotational force)), and transmits the rotational force. The third part is the connection part 15150c that connects the driven part 15150a and the driving part 15150b. The materials from which these parts are made are resinous materials such as polyacetal, polycarbonate and PPS. However, to increase the rigidity of the element, glass fibers, carbon fibers, etc. may be mixed with the resin material, depending on the required load moment. In addition, the stiffness can be further increased (increased) by adding metal to the resin material described above, or the entire coupling can be made of metal etc. The driven portion 15150a is provided with a portion 15150m with a hole for inserting a drive shaft in the form of an expanded portion that expands in a conical shape relative to the axis L2 as shown in Fig. 95 (f). The opening 15150m is a recess 15150z, as shown in the drawing, [0448] The driving part 15150b has a spherical seating surface 15150Ϊ of the drive shaft. Clutch 15150 can pendulum relative to axis L1, between the angular position of the transmission of rotational force through the receiving surface 15150Ϊ and the angular position of the pre-meshing (angular position of disengagement). In this case, the clutch 15150 is coupled to the propeller shaft 180 without being blocked by the free end portion 180b of the propeller shaft 180, irrespective of the rotation phase of the photosensitive drum 107. The propeller portion 15150b has a convex shape as shown in the drawing.
[0449] In this circumference (virtual circle in Fig. 8 (d) C1) of the end surface of the driven part 15150a, a plurality of projections 15150d1-d4 for receiving the drive are arranged. In addition, the spaces between adjacent projections 15150d1 or 15150d2 or 15150d3 and 15150d4 act as drive-taking spare parts 15150k1, 15150k2, 15150k3, 15150k4. Each distance between adjacent projections 15150d1-d4 is larger than the outer diameter of the pin 182, so that it houses a pin (a portion exerting a rotational force) 182. These spaces are spare parts 15150k1 -k4. In addition, in fig. 95 (d) in a clockwise direction relative to projection 15150d, rotational force adopting surfaces (rotational force receiving part) 15150e1-15150e4 are arranged in a direction intersecting with the rotational direction of clutch 15150. When the drive shaft 180 rotates, the pin 182 abuts or contacts one of the 15150e1-15150e4 surfaces that receive driving force. In this case, the driving side 15150 receiving the driving force is pushed through the side surface of the pin 182 and rotates the coupling 15150 around the axis L2.
[0450] Furthermore, the driving portion 15150b has a spherical surface. Clutch 15150 can be pivoted between the angular position of the rotational force transmission and the angular position of the initial engagement (or the angular position of disengagement) by using the spherical surface regardless of the phase of photosensitive drum 107 in the B cartridge (swivel). In the example shown, the spherical surface is a spherical bearing surface of the drum 15150S whose axis is collinear with the axis L2. A hole 15150g is made at its center to pass the anchor for the pin (the part transmitting the rotational force) 15155.
[0451] In the following, with reference to Fig. 96, an example is described as an example of a drum flange 15151 that mounts coupling 15150. Fig. 96 (a) is a view from the drive shaft side and Fig. 96 (b) is a cross-sectional view along line S22 -S22 in Fig. 96 (a).
[0452] The holes 15151g1, 15151g2 shown in Fig. 96 (a) are in the form of grooves extending in the circumferential direction of the flange 15151. An opening is located between the opening 15151g1 and the opening 15151g2
15151g3. When attaching coupling 15150 to flange 15151, in these holes 15151g1, 15151g there is a seat pin 215155. In addition, in the hole 15151 g3 there is a bearing surface 15150i of the drum.
[0453] By means of the structures described above, regardless of the rotation phase of the photosensitive drum 107 (regardless of the stop position of the pin 15155) in the B-2 cartridge, the clutch 15150 can rotate (deflect) between the angular position of the rotational force transmission and the angular position of the pre-meshing (or angular disconnection position).
[0454] Furthermore, in Fig. 96 (a) the transmission surfaces (force-absorbing members) 15151 h1, 15151 h2 are arranged in front of the holes 15151 g1 or 15151 g2 in a clockwise direction. The side surfaces of the rotational force transmitting (rotational force transmitting part) coupling clutch 15155 contact the rotational forces 15151h1, 15151h2. This causes the rotational force to be transmitted from coupling 15150 to photosensitive drum 107. In this case, the transfer surfaces 15151Μ - 15151h2 face in the circumferential direction of movement of the flange 15151. This causes the transfer surfaces 15151h1 - 15151h2 to be pressed against the side surfaces of the pin 15155. ł, in a state in which the axes L1 and L2 are essentially aligned aligned, clutch 15150 rotates around axis L2.
[0455] Here, the flange 15151 has a receiving portion 15151 h1, 15151 h2 transmission, and therefore acts as a rotational force adopting member, [0456] The retaining portion 15151 and shown in Fig. 96 (B) performs the function of holding the clutch 15150 against the flange 15151 so that the clutch can rotate between the angular position of the rotational force transmission and the angular positions of the pre-meshing (or the angular position of disengagement) In addition, it performs the function of adjusting the movement of the 15150 clutch towards the L2 axis. Therefore, hole 15151j has a diameter Φ15 smaller than the diameter of 15150i of the bearing surface. In this way, the movement of the clutch is limited by flange 15151. Because of this, the 15150 clutch does not detach from the photoconductor (cartridge).
[0457] As shown in Fig. 96, the driving portion 15150b of clutch 15150 is meshed with recesses formed in flange 15151. [0458] Figure 96 (c) is a cross-sectional view that illustrates the process in which the clutch 15150 is mounted to flange 15151.
[0459] The driven portion 15150a and connection portion 15150c are inserted into the flange 15151 in the kierunku33 direction. In addition, the positioning member 15150p (driving portion 15150b), which has a bearing surface 15150i, is positioned in the direction of the arrow Χ32. The pin 15155 enters the retaining hole 15150g of the positioning member 15150p, and the retaining hole 15150r of the connection portion 15150c. This causes the positioning member 15150p to be attached to the connection portion 15150c. [0460] Fig. 96 (d) is a sectional view that illustrates the process in which the clutch 15150 is attached to the flange 15151.
[0461] The clutch 15150 is moved in the Χ32 direction, such that the bearing surface 15150i comes into contact with the locating portion 15151 and or nearby. The material 15156 of the locating part is inserted in the direction of the arrow Χ32, and is attached to the flange 15151. The coupling 15150 in this assembly method is attached to the flange 15151 with some clearance (gap) relative to the positioning member 15150p. The result is that the 15150 clutch can change its direction.
[0462] Like the projection 15150d, the surfaces 15150h 1, 15150h2 of rotational force transmission are, preferably diametrically opposite (180 degrees) on the same circumference, [0463] In the following, with reference to Figs. 97 and 98, the structure of the assembly is described. U3 photosensitive drum. Fig. 97 (a) is a perspective view of the drum assembly in a drive side view, and Fig. 97 (b) is a perspective view in non-drive side view. In addition, fig. 98 is a cross-sectional view taken along line S23-S23 in Fig. 97 (a).
[0464] Drum flange 15151 mounted to the coupling 15150 is attached to one end side of the photosensitive drum 107 (cylindrical drum 107a) so that the transmission portion 15150a is exposed. In addition, the non-driving side drum flange 152 is attached to the other end side of the photosensitive drum 107 (cylindrical drum 107a). This way of fixing power on clamping, gluing, welding or the like.
[0465] In this state, in which the drive side is supported by the support member 15157 and the non-drive side is supported by the drum support pin (not shown), the drum unit U3 is rotatably supported by the second frame 118. It is unified in the form of a process cartridge by mounting the first frame assembly 119 in the second frame assembly 120 (Fig. 94).
[0466] Reference 15151c denotes a gear wheel whose function is to transfer the rotational force absorbed by the clutch 15150 from the drive shaft 180 to the developing roll 110. The gear wheel 15151c is integrally formed with the flange 15151.
[0467] The drum assembly U3 described in this embodiment includes a clutch 15150, photosensitive drum 107 (cylindrical drum 107a), and drum flange 15151. The circumferential surface of the cylindrical drum 107a is covered with a photosensitive layer 107b. In addition, the drum assembly includes a photoconductor drum covered with the photosensitive layer 107b, and a coupling mounted at one end thereof. The clutch design is not limited to the design described in this implementation. It may, for example, have the structure described above as examples of the implementation of a clutch. In addition, it may be a different structure if it has the structure in which the invention is present.
[0468] Here, as shown in Fig. 100, the clutch 15150 is mounted such that it can tilt in any direction of its L2 axis relative to the L1 axis. Figures 100 (a1) - (a5) show views from the side of the propeller shaft 180, and Figures 100 (b1) - (b5), corresponding perspective views. Fig. 100 (b1) (b5) are partial broken out views of substantially the entire clutch 15150, the flange portion 15151 being cut off for better visualization.
[0469] In Fig. 100 (a1) (B1), the L2 axis is aligned with the L1 axis. When the clutch 15150 is deflected upwards from this state $ It is in the condition shown in Fig. 100 (a2), (b2). As shown, when the clutch 15150 deflects toward hole 15151g, pin 15155 moves along hole 15151g. As a result, the clutch 15150 is inclined around the axis AX perpendicular to the hole
15151g.
[0470] Clutch 15150 is in Fig. 100 (a3) (b3). inclined to the right. As shown in this drawing, when the clutch 15150 deflects in a direction perpendicular to the opening 15151g, it rotates in the opening 15151g. Pin 15155 rotates around the union of the AY axis of pin 15155.
[0471] The condition in which the clutch 15150 is tilted to the left, and the condition in which it is tilted downward, are shown in Figures 100 (a4) (b4) and 100 (a5) (b5). Because descriptions of the axis of rotation ΑΧ, AY have been given above, their simplification has been omitted.
[0472] Rotation in a direction other than these deflecting directions, for example the 45 degree rotation shown in Fig. 100 (A1) is accomplished by a combination of rotational movements about the rotation axis ΑΧ, AY. In this way, the L2 axis can be tilted in any direction relative to the L1 axis.
[0473] The opening 15151g extends in a direction that intersects with the direction of protrusion of the pin 15155.
[0474] In addition, a gap exists as between the flange (rotational member 15151) and coupling 15150 as shown in the drawing. With such a construction as described above, the clutch 15150 can rotate in all directions.
[0475] More specifically, the transmission surfaces (rotational force transmitting parts) 15151h (15151h1, 15151 h2) are in operating positions relative to the pins 15155 (rotational force transmitting part). The 15155 pin is movable relative to the 15151 h transmitting surface. The 15151 h transmitting surface and the 15155 bolt are meshed or abut against each other. To accomplish this move, there is a gap between them. As a result, the 15150 clutch is rotatable about the L1 axis in all directions. In this way, the clutch 15150 is mounted at the end of the photosensitive drum 107.
[0476] The L2 axis has been mentioned to be pivotable in any direction relative to the L1 axis. However, the 15150 clutch need not necessarily be deflected linearly to a predetermined angle over the entire 360 degree range. This applies to all couplings described in the above embodiments. [0477] In this embodiment, the opening 15151g is made with some excess in the circumferential direction. With this structure, when the L2 axis tilts relative to the L1 axis, even if it is a case in which it cannot deflect linearly to a predetermined angle, the clutch 15150 can tilt to a predetermined angle, turning slightly around axis L2, in other words, if necessary, it is selected from the 15151g hole in the direction of rotation.
[0478] In this way, the coupling 15150 can rotate in substantially all directions. Therefore, the 15150 clutch is rotatable (articulated) basically around the entire circumference with respect to the flange 15151.
[0479] As described above, (Fig. 98), the spherical surface 15150Ϊ of the clutch 15150 contacts the retaining part (part of the recess) 15151 i. Therefore, the center P2 of the spherical surface 15150i is aligned with respect to the axis of rotation and the clutch 15150 is attached. More specifically, the L2 axis of the 15150 clutch can rotate independently of the flange phase 15151.
[0480] Furthermore, in order to engage the coupling 15150 with the propeller shaft 180, the L2 axis just before meshing is tilted in the direction of assembly of the B-2 insert relative to the L1 axis. In particular, as shown in Fig. 101, the L2 axis is inclined relative to the L1 axis so that the driven part 15150a is further downstream of the mounting direction X4. In Figs. 101 (a) - (c), the driven part 15150a is in each case on the assembly direction side X4.
[0481] Fig. 94 shows the state where the L2 axis is inclined with respect to the L1 axis. In addition, Fig. 98 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line S24-S24 in Fig. 94. As shown in Fig. 99, with the structure described above, from the state of inclination of the L2 axis, it is possible to move to a state of essentially parallel to the L1 axis. In addition, the maximum possible angle of inclination a4 (fig. 99) between axis L1 and axis L2 is the angle of inclination when the driven part 15150a tub the connecting part 15150c contacts the flange 15151 or the support member 15157. This angle of inclination is the value required when connecting and disconnecting the coupling with the drive shaft in during assembly and disassembly of the insert in the main unit.
[0482] Just before, or simultaneously with the insertion of the B in the fixed position of the main unit assembly, the clutch 15150 and the drive shaft 180 can mesh with each other. The operation of engagement of the 15150 clutch is described below, based on Fig. 102 and Fig. 103. 102 is a perspective view that shows the main parts of the drive shaft and the driving side of the cartridge. Fig. 103 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view from the bottom of the main device assembly.
[0483] In the embedding process of the B cartridge, as shown in Fig. 102, the B cartridge is installed in the main device assembly in the direction (direction indicated by arrow X4), substantially perpendicular to the L3 axis. The L2 axis of the 15150 coupling is initially inclined in the direction of the mounting direction X4 relative to the L1 axis (angular position of the pre-toothing) (Fig. 102 (a), Fig. 103 (a)). With this inclination of the coupling 15150 relative to the direction of the L1 axis, the free end position 15150A1 is closer to the photosensitive drum 107 than the free end 180b3 of the shaft relative to the direction of the L1 axis. Furthermore, the free end position 15150A2 is closer to the pin 182 than the free end 180b3 of the shaft relative to the direction of axis L1 (Fig. 103 (a)).
[0484] First, the free end position 15150A1 passes the free end 180b3 of the propeller shaft. Then, the conical face of the 150F drive shaft or driven projection 150d contacts the free end portion 180b of the drive shaft 180, or a pin 182 for transmitting driving rotational force. Here, the settling surface 150F and / or the projection 150d are contact parts on the cartridge side. In addition, the free end portion 180b and / or the pin 182 are the engagement parts of the main assembly. In response to the movement of the B cartridge, the clutch 15150 is inclined so that the L2 axis is aligned substantially with the L1 axis (Fig. 103 (C)). When the position of the B cartridge is finally determined relative to the main assembly unit, the drive shaft 180 I and the image drum 107 are substantially coaxial. More precisely, in this condition, the cartridge-side contact portion contacting the engagement portion on the main mounting side, in response to the insertion of the B cartridge toward the rear side of the main component assembly, the clutch 15150 is rotated from the angular position of the initial meshing to the angular position of the rotational force , yes That the L2 axis is aligned substantially with the L1 axis. In this case, the clutch 15150 and the drive shaft 180 are meshed with each other (Fig. 102 (b), Fig. 103 (D)).
[0485] As described above, the clutch 15150 is mounted with the ability to perform a tilting motion relative to the L1 axis. In this case, meshing with the drive shaft 180 can occur by rotating the coupling 15150 corresponding to the mounting operation of the cartridge B.
[0486] In addition, as with Reaiisation 1, the engagement operation of the coupling 15150 described above may be independent of the phase of drive shaft 180 and coupling 15150.
[0487] In this way, according to the present embodiment, the clutch 15150 is mounted with the possibility of rotating or deflecting (extending) about the axis L1. The movement depicted in Fig. In Fig. 103 may include a spinning motion.
[0488] In the following, referring to Fig. 104, the operation of transmitting a rotational force during rotation of the photosensitive drum 107 is described. The drive shaft 180 rotates with the gear 181 driving the drum in the direction Χ8, according to the drawing, the rotational force transmitted from the motor 186. The wheel gear 181 is a helical gear and its diameter is about 80 mm. At the same time, the pin 182 integral with the propeller shaft 180 contacts any of the two receiving surfaces 150e (in four places) (the part receiving the rotational force) of the clutch 15150. In this case the clutch 15150 is rotated by the pin 182 pushing the receiving surface 150e. In addition, in the case of clutch 15150, the force transmitting bolt 15155 (engagement portion from the clutch side, the force transmitting portion) contacts the rotational force transmitting surface (the force transmitting member) 15151 h1, 15151 h2. As a result, the clutch 15150 is meshed with the photosensitive drum 107 for transmission of driving force. Therefore, the photoconductor drum 107 at the rotation of the clutch 15150 is rotated by the flange 15151.
[0489] Furthermore, when the L1 axis and the L2 axis are slightly deflected, the clutch 15150 tilts slightly. This allows the 15150 clutch to rotate without putting a heavy load on the image drum 107 and 180 the drive shaft. Therefore, when mounting the drive shaft 180 and photoconductor 107, no fine adjustment is required. This reduces production costs. [0490] In the following with reference to Fig. 105, a description is provided regarding the removal operation of the 15150 clutch when removing the B-2 process cartridge from the main component assembly A. Fig. 105 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view from the bottom of the main component assembly. When the B insert is removed from the main assembly unit, as shown in Figure 105, it is displaced in the direction (indicated by arrow X6) substantially perpendicular to the L3 axis. First, as in Implementation 1, when removing the B-2 cartridge, the drive shaft 182 of the drive shaft 180 is placed in any two spare parts 15150k1-15150k4 (figure).
[0491] After the photoconductor drum 107 stops, the clutch 15150 takes the angular position of the rotational force transmission in which the L2 axis is substantially aligned with the L1 axis. At the same time, as the cartridge B moves towards the front side of the main component assembly (removal direction X6), the image drum 107 is moved towards the front side. In response to this displacement, shaft seating surface 15150f or projection 15150d opposite the disassembly direction of clutch 15150 contacts at least the free end portion 180b of drive shaft 180 (Fig. 105a). At the same time, the L2 axis starts (Figure 105 (B)) to incline in the direction opposite to the X6 disassembly direction. This slope direction is the same as the slope of the 15150 clutch when inserting the B cartridge. During the disassembly operation of this cartridge B, the cartridge B is displaced, and the free end of the part 15150A3 on the side opposite the direction of disassembly X6 contacts the free end portion 180b. The clutch 15150 is tilted until the free end portion 15150A3, opposite the mounting direction, reaches the free end 180b3 of the drive shaft (Fig. 105 (C)). The angular position of the 15150 coupling in this case is the angular position of the disengagement. In this condition, the clutch 15150 passes past the free shaft end 180b3, touching the free shaft end 180b3 (Fig. 105 (d)). Then the B-2 insert is removed from the main unit assembly A.
[0492] As described above, the clutch 15150 is mounted with the ability to perform a biasing movement relative to the L1 axis. In this case, the clutch 15150 can be disengaged from the drive shaft 180 by pivoting the clutch 15150 according to the removal operation of the B-2 cartridge.
[0493] The movement shown in fig, 105 may include vortex motion.
[0494] With this structure, as described above, the clutch 15150 is an integral part of the photosensitive drum as the photoconductor assembly. Therefore, manipulation during assembly is easy, and assembly quality is improved.
[0495] For tilting the L2 axis to the angular position of the initial meshing, immediately before the meshing of coupling 15150 with the propeller shaft 180, any of the structures according to Implementation 3-9 can be used.
[0496] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described, the drive side drum flange is a separate member of the photosensitive drum. However, the present invention is not limited to such an example. In other words, the rotational force receiving portion can be placed directly on the cylindrical drum, not on the drum flange.
[Implementation 18] [0497] In the following, referring to Fig. 106, Fig. 107, and Fig. 108, the eighteenth embodiment of the present invention is described.
[0498] The present embodiment is a modified example of the coupling described in Realization 17. The drum flange and driving side retainer configurations differ from Implementation 17. In each case, the coupling is deflected in a particular direction, regardless of the phase of the photosensitive drum. In addition, the structure for attaching the photosensitive drum to the second frame, as described below, is the same as in the previous re-assembly, and therefore its description is omitted.
[0499] Figs. 106 (a) and (b) show a first modified embodiment of the photoconductor unit. In Figs. 106 (a) and (b), the photosensitive drum and drum flange on the non-drive side are not shown because they are the same as those of Realization 16.
[0500] In particular, the clutch 16150 is provided with a ring-shaped support portion 16150p through which the pin 155 passes. The edge lines 16150p1 16150p2 of the circumferential support portion 16150p are equidistant from the axis of the pin 155.
[0501] At the same time, the inner periphery of the drum flange (rotational member) 16151 forms a part (recess) 16151i with a spherical surface, the center of the part 16151 and with the surface is located on the axis of the pin 155. In addition, a gap 16151 is formed which is an opening which extends towards the L1 axis. When using this hole, the pin 155 is not hooked when the L2 axis is tilted.
[0502] Furthermore, a retaining member 16156 is disposed between the driven part 16150a and the support part 16150p. Here, the spherical surface part 16156a is located opposite the support part 16150p. Here, the spherical surface portion 16156a is concentric with the spherical portion 16151 and surface. In addition, a gap 16156u is made, extending the gap 16151u toward the L1 axis. Therefore, when the L1 axis is deflected, the pin 155 can move inwardly through the slots 16151u, 16156u.
[0503] Here, the drum flange, the clutch and the retaining member for these drive side structures are attached to the photosensitive drum. They form the photoconductor unit.
[0504] With this structure, as described above, when tilting the L2 axis, and edge edges, 16150p1 16150p2 support portion 16150p move along part 161511 with a spherical surface and part 16156a with a spherical surface. Thanks to this, as in the implementation of the above, it is possible to reliably tilt the 16150 clutch.
[0505] In this way, the support part 16150p is rotatable with respect to part 16151 and with a spherical surface, that is, a gap is arranged between the flange 16151 and the clutch 16150, so that it is possible to make the articulated clutch 16150.
[0506] Thus, similar effects are achieved to those described in Implementation 17.
[0507] Figs. 107 (a) and (b) show a second modified embodiment of the photoconductor unit. Because in Figs. 107 (a) and (b), the photoconductor and drum flange on the non-driving side are the same as in Implementation 17, their representation is omitted.
[0508] In particular, like in Implementation 17, the clutch 17150 is equipped with a spherical support portion 17150p, which includes an intersection between the axis of the pin 155, and the axis L2, as essentially its center.
[0509] The drum flange 17151 has a conical portion 17151 and in contact with the surface (cavities) of the support portion 17150p.
[0510] Furthermore, a retaining member 17156 is disposed between the driven portion 17150a and the support portion 17150p. Furthermore, the edge line portion 17156a contacts the surface of the support portion 17150p.
[0511] The entire structure (drum flange, clutch, and retainer) of this drive side is attached to the photosensitive drum. This creates the photoconductor unit.
[0512] In the case of the structure as described above, when the L2 axis tilts, the support portion 17150p becomes displaced along the conical portion 171511 and the edge line 17156a of the retaining member. This allows reliable tilting of the 17150 coupling.
[0513] As described above, the support portion 17150p is rotatable (articulated) relative to the conical portion 171511, Between the flange 17151 and the coupling 17150, a gap is made to allow the coupling 17150 to tilt. Therefore, the effects obtained are similar to those described in Implementation 17.
[0514] Figs. 108 (a) and (b) show a third modified embodiment of the photosensitive drum assembly U7. The photoconductor and drum flange on the non-drive side are the same as those of Implementation 17 in the modified example of Figs. 108 (a) and (b), so their representation is omitted. [0515] In particular, they are arranged coaxially with respect to the axis of rotation of the pin 20155. Furthermore, the clutch 20150 has a flat surface portion 20150r perpendicular to the axis L2. In addition, it is provided with a semi-spherical support part 20150p, which includes an intersection between the axis of the pin 20155 and the axis L2, in principle its center.
[0516] Flange 20151 is provided with a conical part 20151 and, with apex 20151g located on its axis. The 20151 g tip contacts the flat part of the 20150r clutch surface.
[0517] Furthermore, a retaining member 20156 is disposed between the driven portion 20150a and the support portion 20150p. In this case, the edge line portion 20156a hisss with the surface of the support portion 20150p.
[0518] The structure (drum flange, clutch, and retainer) of this drive side is attached to the photosensitive drum. As a result, a photoconductor unit is formed.
[0519] With this structure, as described above, even if the L2 axis tilts, clutch 20150 and flange 20151 are in contact with each other always in principle at one point. Therefore, the 20150 clutch can be tilted ensuring reliability.
[0520] As described above, the flat surface portion 20150r of the clutch has the ability to deflect relative to the conical part 20151L Between the flange 20151 and the clutch 20150, in order to allow the clutch to deflect 17150, a gap is left.
4 [0521] The effects described above can be achieved in this way by creating a photoconductor unit.
[0522] As a means of tilting the clutch to the angular position of the pre-meshing, any of Structure 3 to 9 is used.
[Implementation 19] [0523] In the following, referring to Fig. 109, Fig. 110, and Fig. 111, the nineteenth implementation of the present invention is described.
[0524] The point where the present implementation differs from Reaiization 1 is the photoconductor mounting structure and the rotational force transmission structure from the clutch to the photosensitive drum.
[0525] Fig. 109 is a perspective view that shows a drum shaft and a clutch. Fig. 111 is a perspective view of the second frame assembly in a drive side view. Fig. 110 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line S20-S20 in Fig. 111.
[0526] In this reaiization, the photoconductor 107 is supported by the drum shaft 18153 extending from the driving side of the second frame 18118 to its non-driving side. This also allows the exact location of the photoconductor 107 to be determined accurately. This is described in detail below.
[0527] The drum shaft (rotational force member) 18153 supports the positioning hole 18151g, 18152, flanges 18151 and 18152 at opposite ends of the photoconductor drum 107. In addition, the drum shaft 18153 is rotated integrally with the photoconductor drum 107 through the transmission portion 18153c. In addition, drum shaft 18153 is pivotably supported in the second frame 18118 by support members 18158 and 18159 at its opposite ends.
[0528] The free end portion 18153b of the drum shaft 18153 has the same configuration as the configuration described in relation to Implementation 1. In particular, the free end portion 18153b has a spherical surface and its drum receiving surface 150f, in the coupling 150 is displaceable along a spherical surface. In this way, the L2 axis can tilt in any direction relative to the L1 axis. In addition, the clutch 150 is secured against disengagement by the drum support member 18157. In addition, they are joined as a process cartridge by connecting the first frame assembly (not shown) to the second frame 18118.
[0529] In this case, the rotational force is transmitted from the clutch 150 via a pin (rotational force receiving member) 18155 to the photosensitive drum 107. The pin 18155 passes through the center of the free end portion (spherical surface) of the drum shaft 18153.
[0530] Furthermore, the clutch 150 is secured against release by the drum carrier 18157. [0531] The engagement and disengagement of the clutch and main assembly is the same as in Realization 1, and therefore its description is omitted.
[0532] As for the structure of the L2 axis inclination towards the angular position of the pre-meshing, each of the Reaiization structures 3 to 10 is useful for this.
[0533] Furthermore, the structure described with reference to Implementation 1 can be used for configurations at the free end of the drum shaft.
[0534] Furthermore, as described with reference to Implementation 1 (Fig. 31), the direction of the clutch's tilting relative to the cartridge is controlled by the drum support member. As a result, the clutch can be more reliably meshed with the drive shaft.
[0535] The structure is not limited in that the rotational force receiving portion is disposed in the end portion of the photosensitive drum, and rotates integrally with the photosensitive drum. For example, it may be arranged on the drum shaft located at the end portion of the photosensitive drum (cylindrical drum) as described in relation to Implementation 1. Or, as described in the present embodiment, it may be arranged in the end portion of the shaft entering the drum which passes through the photosensitive drum (cylindrical drum). Alternatively, further, as described with reference to Implementation 17, it may be on a drum flange located at the end portion of the photosensitive drum (cylindrical drum).
[0536] The engagement (coupling) between the propeller shaft and coupling means a state in which the clutch rests on the propeller shaft or contacts the propeller shaft and / or additionally a part exerting a rotational force, i.e. when the propeller shaft begins rotation in this sense that the clutch adheres to or contacts the rotational force portion and rotational force can be received from the propeller shaft.
[0537] In the embodiments described above, the same letter ends are added to the references of the clutch members that perform corresponding functions.
[0538] Fig. 112 is a perspective view of the photoconductor unit U according to some embodiments of the present invention.
[0539] In this figure, the photoconductor 107 is provided with a helical gear 107c at the end on which the clutch 150 is mounted. The helical gear transmits 107c a rotational force that the clutch 150 absorbs from the main assembly to the developing roller (process center) ) 110. This structure is used in the drum assembly U3 shown in Fig. 97.
[0540] Furthermore, the photoconductor 107 is provided with a gear 107d at an end opposite the end with a helical gear 107c. In this embodiment, the gear 107d is a helical gear. The gear 107d transfers the rotational force which the clutch 150 absorbs from the main component A to the transfer roller 104 (Fig. 4) located in main unit A, [0541] Furthermore, the loading roller (process center) 108 contacts the longitudinal region with the photoconductor 107. As a result, the loading roller 108 rotates with the photoconductor 107. The transfer roller 104 can be in contact with the photoconductor 107 in its longitudinal area. As a result, the transfer roller 104 can be rotated by the photoconductor 107. In this case, a gear to rotate the transfer roller 104 is unnecessary.
[0542] Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 98, drum 107 is provided with a helical gear 15151c at the end provided with a coupling 15150. Gear 15151c transmits the rotational force absorbed by clutch 15150 from main component A to the developing roller 110, and, in the direction of axis L1 of the photosensitive drum 107, the position in which the gear 15151c is located, and the position in which the pin 15150h1 , h2 transmitting the rotational force (the part transmitting the rotational force) overlap (the place of overlap is indicated by reference number 3 in Fig. 98).
[0543] In this way, the gear 15151c and the rotational force transmitting portion overlap in the direction of the axis L1. As a result, the force tending to deform the frame of the B1 cartridge is reduced. In addition, the length of the photosensitive drum 107 may be reduced.
[0544] Clutches from the implementations described above can be used for this drum assembly.
[0545] Each coupling described above has a structure as below.
[0546] Clutch (e.g. clutches 150, 1550, 1750, and 1850, 3150.4150, 5150, 6150, 7150, 8150, 1350, 1450, 11150, 12150 12250 12350, 13150, 14150, 15150, 16150, 17150, 20150 , 21150, and so on) meshes with the Qak-exerting part, e.g. pins 182, 1280, 1355, 1382, 9182 and so on), located in the main device assembly A. In this case, the clutch absorbs the rotational force to rotate photoconductor drum 107. Additionally, each clutch can be rotated between the angular position of the rotational force transmission to transmit the rotational force to rotate the photoconductor drum 107 by meshing with the portion exerting rotational force on the photoconductor drum 107 and the disengagement angular position sloping outwardly from the drum L1 axis photosensitive 107 in the angular position of the rotational force transmission. In addition, when disassembling the B cartridge from the main component assembly A in a direction substantially perpendicular to the L1 axis, the clutch is rotated from the angular position of the rotational force transmission to the angular disengagement position.
[0547] As described above, the angular position of the rotational force transmission and the angular position of disengagement may be the same or mutually equivalent.
[0548] Furthermore, when mounting the insert B to the main device assembly A, the operation proceeds as follows. The clutch is deflected from the angular position of the initial meshing to the angular position of the transmission of rotational force in response to the displacement of the insert B in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis L1 in order to allow the drive shaft to be bypassed by the clutch part (for example, the part in the lower position of the wool end A1) on the side opposite the direction in which the container B is mounted in the main unit A. The clutch is in an angular position for the transmission of rotational force.
[0549] The meaning of perpendicularity has essentially been explained above.
[0550] The coupling member has a cavity (e.g. 150z, 12150z, 12250z, 14150z 15150z, 21150z) in which the rotation axis L2 of the coupling member extends through the center of the shape defining the cavity. The recess at the lead end of the drive shaft (e.g., 180, 1180, 1380 1280, 9180) is in a state in which the coupling member is in an angular position for transmitting rotational force. The rotational force absorbing part (e.g. surface 150e, 9150e, 12350e, 14150e, 15150e rotational force) is a projection of a portion of an adjacent propeller shaft in a direction perpendicular to the axis L3 and may engage or contact the rotational force exerting portion. In this way, the clutch absorbs rotational force from the drive shaft and rotates. When the process cartridge is removed from the main electrophotographic image assembly unit, the coupling member moves from the angular position of transmission to the angular position of disconnection, so that the part (end part 150A3, 1750A3, 14150A3, 15150A3 on the opposite side to the disassembly direction) of the coupling member bypasses the drive shaft when the process cartridge moves in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of the photosensitive drum. In this way the clutch is disengaged from the drive shaft.
[0551] Such rotational force receiving parts are arranged on the virtual circle C1 (Fig. 8, (d), Fig. 95 (d)) with the center O (Fig. 8, (d), Fig. 95 (d)) on the axis of rotation of the coupling member, in positions substantially diametrically opposite each other.
[0552] The coupling recess has an expanding portion (for example, Figures 8, 29, 33, 34, 36, 47, 51.54, 60, 63, 69, 72, 82, 83, 90, 91, 92, 93 , 106, 107, 108). The parts belonging to the set of parts that absorb rotational force are arranged at regular intervals in the direction of rotation of the coupling member. A rotating force portion (e.g., 182a, 182b) is arranged in each of two positions and is extended in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the drive shaft. One of the rotational-force transmitting parts is in mesh with one of the two rotational-exerting parts. The second of the rotational-force transmitting parts which is opposite to one of the rotational-force transmitting parts is interlocked with the second of the rotational-impacting two parts. In this way, the clutch receives rotational force from the drive shaft by turning. With such a construction, rotational forces can be transmitted to the photosensitive drum by means of a clutch, [0553] The expanding part has a conical shape. The conical shape has a vertex on the axis of rotation of the coupling member, and in a state in which the coupling member is in an angular position for transmitting rotational force, the vertex is opposite the free end of the drive shaft. When the rotational force is transmitted to the coupling member, the coupling member is located above the free end of the drive shaft. With such a construction, the clutch can engage (connect) with the propeller shaft in the main unit of the device with overlap with respect to the direction of the axis L2. Thus, the clutch can stably cooperate with the propeller shaft.
[0554] The free end portion of the clutch includes the free end of the drive shaft. Therefore, the clutch can easily be disengaged from the drive shaft. The clutch can absorb rotational force from the propeller shaft with high accuracy [0555] The clutch having the flared portion and thus the propeller shaft may have a cylindrical shape. Thanks to this, machining of the drive shaft is easy.
[0556] The clutch has a conical widening portion so that the effects described above can be enhanced.
[0557] When the clutch is in an angular position, the transmitted rotational force, the L2 axis and the L1 axis are aligned in a substantially collinear manner. In the state in which the coupling member is in the disengaged angular position, the axis of rotation of the coupling member is inclined relative to the axis of the electrophotographic photoconductive drum, so that it allows the upper part of the coupling member to be bypassed by the back end of the drive shaft in the removal direction in which the process cartridge is disassembled from the main device assembly to create an electrophotographic image. The coupling member comprises a rotational force transmitting part (e.g., 150h, 1550h, 9150h, 14150h, 15150h) for transmitting the rotational force to an electrophotographic drum, and a connection part (e.g., 7150c) between the rotational force transmitting part and the rotational force transmitting part the rotational-transmission portion, the connecting portion, the rotational-force transmission portion and are arranged along the direction of the axis of rotation. When the process insert is moved in a direction perpendicular to the drive shaft, the angular position of the pre-engagement is determined by the connecting part in contact with the fixed part (guide rib (contact part) 7130R1a) located in the main device assembly in the device for creating an electrophotographic image.
[0558] Cartridge B includes a retaining member (locking member 3159, pressure member 4159a, 4159b, locking member 5157k, magnet 8159) for holding the coupling member in an angular position of pre-engagement, wherein the coupling member is held in an angular position of pre-engagement by force exerted by the holding member. The retaining member may be a flexible member (pressure element 4159a, 4159b). By the elastic force of the flexible member, the clutch is held in an angular position of the meshing. The retaining member may be a friction member (locking member 3159). The friction force of the friction element, the clutch is kept in the angular position of the meshing. The retaining member may be a locking member (locking member 5157k). The retaining member may be a magnetic element (part 8159) located on the coupling. The magnetic force of the magnetic element, the clutch is held in the angular position of the meshing.
[0559] The rotational force receiving portion is connected to a rotational force exerting portion that can rotate integrally with the drive shaft. The rotational force transmitting portion may be in engagement with the rotational force exerting portion that can rotate integrally with the drive shaft when the rotational force transmitting portion adopts the driving force to rotate the coupling member and the rotational force receiving portion is tilted in the direction of the transmission of the force by the drive shaft. This pulling force ensures that the clutch contacts the free end of the drive shaft. Next, the position of the clutch relative to the drive shaft is determined in relation to the direction of the L2 axis. When the photoconductor 107 is also attracted, the position of the photoconductor 107 relative to the main device assembly in relation to the direction of the axis L1 is determined. The pulling force can be appropriately determined by a specialist in the field.
[0560] The coupling member is located at the end of the photosensitive drum and can tilt relative to the axis of the electrophotographic drum in virtually all directions. This allows the clutch to deviate smoothly between the angular position of the initial meshing and the angular position of the rotational force transmission and between the angular position of the rotational force transmission and the angular position of disengagement.
[0561] In principle, all directions are intended to mean that the clutch can rotate to an angular position of rotational force transmission, regardless of the phase in which the rotational force portion stops.
[0562] In addition, the clutch may diverge into an angular disengagement position irrespective of the phase in which the rotating force portion stops.
[0563] Between the rotational force transmitting part (e.g., 150h, 1550h, 9150h, 14150h, 15150h) and the rotational force receiving member (e.g., pin 155, 1355. 9155, 13155, 15155, 15151h), the gap is arranged so that the coupling member is able to tilt relative to the axis of the electrophotographic drum in virtually all directions, the rotational force transmitting part being located at the end of the electrophotographic drum and being movable in relative to the rotating force member, and the rotational force transmitting part and the force transmitting part can be interlocked in the direction of rotation of the coupling member. As a result, the clutch is mounted at the end of the drum. The coupling can tilt in almost all directions relative to the L1 axis.
[0564] The main assembly of the electrophotographic image forming device comprises a biasing member (e.g., slide 1131) movable between a biasing position and a retracting position from the biasing position. When the process insert is mounted in the main assembly of the electrophotographic imaging device, the coupling member moves to the angular position of the pre-meshing when it is pressed by the elastic force of the pressure element returning to the position after temporarily switching to the retraction position by contacting the process insert. Due to this design, even if the coupling part is retarded by friction, the clutch can be reliably rotated to the angular position of the pre-meshing.
[0565] The photoconductor consists of the structures listed below. The photoconductor unit (U, U1, U3, U7, U13) can be mounted and dismounted in the main assembly of the electrophotographic image creation device in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of the drive shaft. The drum unit includes an electrophotographic photosensitive drum having a photosensitive layer (107b) on its peripheral surface. The electrophotographic drum may rotate about its axis. It also includes a clutch for engaging with a portion exerting a rotational force and for absorbing the rotational force for rotating the photosensitive drum 107. The clutch may have the structure described above.
[0566] The drum unit is mounted in the cartridge. When mounting an insert in the main unit, a drum unit can be attached to the main unit.
[0567] The contribution (Β, B2) contains the structures listed below.
[0568] The insert may be mounted in and removed from the main assembly unit in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of the drive shaft. The cartridge includes a drum with a photosensitive layer (107b) on its peripheral outer surface, wherein the electrophotographic photosensitive drum can rotate about its axis. It further includes process means that may affect the photoconductor drum 107 (e.g., the cleaning bar 117a, the loading roller 108, and the developing roller 100). In addition, it includes a clutch for absorbing rotational force to rotate the drum 107 by meshing with the force exerting portion. The clutch may have the structure described above.
[0569] An electrophotographic imaging device may be charged by a drum unit. [0570] An electrophotographic imaging device may be charged by a process cartridge. [0571] The L1 axis is the axis of rotation of the photosensitive drum.
[0572] The L2 axis is the axis of rotation of the clutch.
[0573] The L3 axis is the axis of rotation of the propeller shaft.
[0574] The vortex motion is not a motion by which the clutch itself pivots about the L2 axis, but a motion by which the inclined L2 axis pivots about the L1 axis of the photosensitive drum, although here spinning does not preclude the clutch rotation as such about the L2 axis of the clutch 150.
[Other embodiments] [0575] The assembly and disassembly path extends diagonally or non-diagonally up / down in relation to the drive shaft of the main component assembly in the embodiment described above, however, the present invention is not limited to such examples. Embodiments may be suitable for use with a process insert that can be mounted and dismounted in a direction perpendicular to the drive shaft, for example depending on the design of the main unit assembly.
[0576] Furthermore, in the embodiment described above, although the mounting path is rectilinear with respect to the main device assembly, the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, the assembly path may be a combination of straight sections, or it may be a curvilinear path.
[0577] In addition, the cartridges in the implementation described above create monochrome images. However, the above-described embodiments may be suitable for use with color cartridges (e.g., for two-color images, three-color images, or multi-color images, etc.) by a variety of developing devices .
[0578] Furthermore, the process cartridge described above comprises an electrophotographic photosensitive member and, for example, at least one process means. Thus, the process cartridge may comprise an integrally connected photoconductor and charging means as a process means. The process cartridge may include a photoconductor and developing means as an integrated process means. The process cartridge may include a photoconductor and cleaning agent as an integral process agent. In addition, the process cartridge may include an integrally connected photoconductor and two or more process means. [0579] Furthermore, the process cartridge is assembled and disassembled by the user in the main device assembly. Thus, maintenance of the main device assembly is actually done by the user. According to the reaises described above, in the case of a main device assembly that is not equipped with a mechanism for moving the main coupling member on the drum unit side for transmitting rotational force to the photosensitive drum in the axial direction, the process cartridge can be detachably interlocked in a substantially perpendicular direction to the shaft axis. It is possible to rotate the photosensitive drum smoothly. In addition, according to the implementation described above, the process cartridge can be disassembled from the main photographic image forming unit equipped with a drive shaft in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of the drive shaft.
[0580] Furthermore, according to the implementation described above, the process cartridge can be mounted in the main assembly of the electrophotographic image forming device provided with a drive shaft in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the drive shaft. In addition, according to the implementation described above, the process cartridge can be mounted and disassembled in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of the drive shaft in the main assembly of the electrophotographic image forming device provided with a drive shaft.
[0581] Also, in the case of the coupling described above, even if it does not displace the drive gear located in the main assembly in the axial direction, assembly and disassembly in the main assembly of the device is done by moving the process insert in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis drive shaft.
[0582] Furthermore, according to the implementation described above in the drive coupling part between the main unit and the cartridge, the photosensitive drum can rotate more smoothly compared to the case of meshing between gears.
[0583] Furthermore, according to the implementation described above, the process cartridge can be detachably mounted in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of the drive shaft located in the main unit, and at the same time the photoconductor can rotate smoothly.
[0584] Furthermore, according to the implementation described above, the process cartridge can be detachably mounted in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of the drive shaft located in the main unit, and at the same time a smooth rotation of the photosensitive drum can take place.
Industrial applicability [0585] As described above, according to the present invention, the axis of the drum engaging member may take different angular positions relative to the axis of the photosensitive drum. The drum coupling member may be meshed with the propeller shaft in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of the propeller shaft located in this structure in the main assembly. In addition, the drum engaging member can be detached from the propeller shaft in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the propeller shaft. The invention can be applied to a process cartridge, an electrophotographic photoconductor unit, a rotational force transmitting part (drum coupling member), and an electrophotographic image forming device.
266 members in 22 offices
Priority claims14
| Document | Office | Kind | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2006346190 | Japan | A | |
| 2006346190 | Japan | A | |
| 2007042665 | Japan | A | |
| 2007042665 | Japan | A | |
| 2007330303 | Japan | A | |
| 2007330303 | Japan | A | |
| 07860559 | European Patent Office (EPO) | A | |
| 2007075364 | Japan | W | |
| 2007075364 | Japan | W | |
| EP20070860559 | – | – | – |
| JP20060346190 | – | – | – |
| JP20070042665 | – | – | – |
| JP20070330303 | – | – | – |
| WO2007JP75364 | – | – | – |
Members266
| Document | Office | Kind | |
|---|---|---|---|
| US2008152388A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| AU2007339163A1 | Australia | A1 | |
| CA2670502A1 | Canada | A1 | |
| CA2961034A1 | Canada | A1 | |
| CA3117024A1 | Canada | A1 | |
| CA3117031A1 | Canada | A1 | |
| CA3117038A1 | Canada | A1 | |
| CA3119205A1 | Canada | A1 | |
| CA3119212A1 | Canada | A1 | |
| CA3119274A1 | Canada | A1 | |
| CA3119461A1 | Canada | A1 | |
| CA3119466A1 | Canada | A1 | |
| WO2008078836A1 | World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) | A1 | |
| JP2008233867A | Japan | A | |
| TW200848959A | Taiwan Province of China | A | |
| MX2009005512A | Mexico | A | |
| EP2087407A1 | European Patent Office (EPO) | A1 | |
| KR20090105941A | Republic of Korea | A | |
| DE112007003045T5 | Germany | T5 | |
| CN101568887A | China | A | |
| HK1131668A1 | Hong Kong, China | A1 | |
| KR20100015984A | Republic of Korea | A | |
| JP2010140051A | Japan | A | |
| JP4498407B2 | Japan | B2 | |
| JP2010152387A | Japan | A | |
| TW201028806A | Taiwan Province of China | A | |
| RU2009128196A | Russian Federation | A | |
| US2011091239A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| JP2011100171A | Japan | A | |
| KR20110086777A | Republic of Korea | A | |
| KR20110086883A | Republic of Korea | A | |
| SG176480A1 | Singapore | A1 | |
| JP4854791B2 | Japan | B2 | |
| KR20120008546A | Republic of Korea | A | |
| KR20120008547A | Republic of Korea | A | |
| AU2012200109A1 | Australia | A1 | |
| AU2007339163B2 | Australia | B2 | |
| KR101155190B1 | Republic of Korea | B1 | |
| JP5005053B2 | Japan | B2 | |
| KR101182006B1 | Republic of Korea | B1 | |
| US8275286B2 | United States of America | B2 | |
| US8280278B2 | United States of America | B2 | |
| RU2467370C2 | Russian Federation | C2 | |
| US2013064569A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| TWI391797B | Taiwan Province of China | B | |
| JP5208233B2 | Japan | B2 | |
| JP2013122616A | Japan | A | |
| CN101568887B | China | B | |
| SG190459A1 | Singapore | A1 | |
| EP2087407B1 | European Patent Office (EPO) | B1 | |
| CN103257563A | China | A | |
| EP2631718A2 | European Patent Office (EPO) | A2 | |
| EP2631719A2 | European Patent Office (EPO) | A2 | |
| CN103279022A | China | A | |
| CN103279023A | China | A | |
| CN103293896A | China | A | |
| CN103293897A | China | A | |
| DK2087407T3 | Denmark | T3 | |
| PT2087407E | Portugal | E | |
| SG193157A1 | Singapore | A1 | |
| TW201346465A | Taiwan Province of China | A | |
| TW201346466A | Taiwan Province of China | A | |
| ES2430559T3 | Spain | T3 | |
| SI2087407T1 | Slovenia | T1 | |
| BRPI0720506A2 | Brazil | A2 | |
| PL2087407T3This record | Poland | T3 | |
| US8630564B2 | United States of America | B2 | |
| RU2012130772A | Russian Federation | A | |
| HK1185153A1 | Hong Kong, China | A1 | |
| HK1185670A1 | Hong Kong, China | A1 | |
| US2014056613A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| US8682215B1 | United States of America | B1 | |
| US2014099144A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| AU2012200109B2 | Australia | B2 | |
| TWI443481B | Taiwan Province of China | B | |
| KR20140088159A | Republic of Korea | A | |
| KR20140088160A | Republic of Korea | A | |
| AU2014208277A1 | Australia | A1 | |
| EP2631718A3 | European Patent Office (EPO) | A3 | |
| EP2631719A3 | European Patent Office (EPO) | A3 | |
| KR101457751B1 | Republic of Korea | B1 | |
| KR101457752B1 | Republic of Korea | B1 | |
| KR101457771B1 | Republic of Korea | B1 | |
| KR101457772B1 | Republic of Korea | B1 | |
| KR20150018905A | Republic of Korea | A | |
| JP5680123B2 | Japan | B2 | |
| RU2543681C2 | Russian Federation | C2 | |
| AU2014208277B2 | Australia | B2 | |
| JP2015096969A | Japan | A | |
| AU2015203129A1 | Australia | A1 | |
| KR101536545B1 | Republic of Korea | B1 | |
| KR101536546B1 | Republic of Korea | B1 | |
| KR101536553B1 | Republic of Korea | B1 | |
| BRPI0720506B1 | Brazil | B1 | |
| CN103279022B | China | B | |
| CN103279023B | China | B | |
| MX337215B | Mexico | B | |
| BR122015008869B1 | Brazil | B1 | |
| BR122015008872B1 | Brazil | B1 | |
| TWI534563B | Taiwan Province of China | B |
Numbers
- Publication, DOCDB
- 2087407
- Publication, EPODOC
- PL2087407T
- Application
- 860559
- Application, DOCDB
- 07860559
- Application, EPODOC
- PL20070860559T
Titles2
- English
- PROCESS CARTRIDGE, ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS, AND ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC PHOTOSENSITIVE DRUM UNIT
- Polish
- Wkład procesowy, elektrofotograficzne urządzenie do tworzenia obrazu i zespół elektrofotograficznego bębna światłoczułego
Classification
- CPC, 14
- G03G15/757
- G03G21/1803
- G03G15/00
- G03G21/1842
- G03G21/186
- G03G2221/1657
- G03G21/1853
- G03G21/1821
- G03G21/185
- G03G21/1857
- G03G21/1647
- G03G15/751
- G03G21/1817
- G03G21/1814
- IPC, 2
- G03G21 18
- G03G21 16