JP2005099292A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Image forming apparatus Download PDF

Info

Publication number
JP2005099292A
JP2005099292A JP2003331562A JP2003331562A JP2005099292A JP 2005099292 A JP2005099292 A JP 2005099292A JP 2003331562 A JP2003331562 A JP 2003331562A JP 2003331562 A JP2003331562 A JP 2003331562A JP 2005099292 A JP2005099292 A JP 2005099292A
Authority
JP
Japan
Prior art keywords
opening
process unit
main body
image forming
forming apparatus
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
JP2003331562A
Other languages
Japanese (ja)
Other versions
JP4599045B2 (en
Inventor
Koichiro Tsujimoto
浩一郎 辻本
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Kyocera Document Solutions Inc
Original Assignee
Kyocera Mita Corp
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Kyocera Mita Corp filed Critical Kyocera Mita Corp
Priority to JP2003331562A priority Critical patent/JP4599045B2/en
Publication of JP2005099292A publication Critical patent/JP2005099292A/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of JP4599045B2 publication Critical patent/JP4599045B2/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Fee Related legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Landscapes

  • Electrophotography Configuration And Component (AREA)

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming apparatus in which the process unit can be reliably and easily attached/detached, and to suppress such problems as the reduction of a process unit available time and increase in the frequency of exchanges with new articles by securing the capacity of a process unit as large as possible. <P>SOLUTION: The image forming apparatus is provided with: a main body 1 that removably houses a process unit 2 having at least an image carrier whereon a toner image is formed; a housing part 4 for the process unit 2 that is provided within the main body and has an opening 3 over the intersection of the upper surface and the side surface of the main body 1; and an installation guide 5 that is formed within the housing part 4 for installing the process unit 2 obliquely downwards from the opening 3. The main body 1 includes a first opening/closing cover 6 arranged on its upper surface and a second opening/closing cover 7 arranged on the side surface of the main body 1. While the opening 3 is closed, the tip section of the first opening/closing cover 6 is contacted with that of the second opening/closing cover 7 each other in opening/closing the covers. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

本発明は、着脱式のプロセスユニットを有する複写機、プリンタ、またはファクシミリ等の画像形成装置に関する。より詳細には、本発明は、プロセスユニットの着脱作業を確実かつ容易に行うことが可能な画像形成装置に関する。   The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine, a printer, or a facsimile machine having a detachable process unit. More specifically, the present invention relates to an image forming apparatus capable of reliably and easily performing a process unit attaching / detaching operation.

一般に、複写機、プリンタ、またはファクシミリ等の画像形成装置において、像担持体（例えば、感光体ドラム）、帯電器、および現像ユニット等を一体化したプロセスユニットを、装置本体に着脱可能とした構成のものが知られている。また、最近では、デザイン性や省電力性能向上などの理由で、画像形成装置の小型化も進んでいる。   Generally, in an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine, a printer, or a facsimile, a process unit in which an image carrier (for example, a photosensitive drum), a charger, and a developing unit are integrated is detachable from the apparatus main body. Things are known. In recent years, image forming apparatuses have been downsized for reasons such as improvement in design and power saving performance.

従来の画像形成装置として、例えば、特許文献１に記載されるものが挙げられる。特許文献１の画像形成装置において、プロセスユニットを装着するには、まず、装置本体側面に設けられたヒンジ機構によって開閉可能なカバーを回動させてプロセスユニットの収容部を開き、次いで、その収容部の内側に形成されたレールに、プロセスユニットの側部に設けたガイド部材を係合させ、そのままプロセスユニットを装置本体の奥へと差し込むようにしている。   As a conventional image forming apparatus, for example, the one described in Patent Document 1 can be cited. In the image forming apparatus of Patent Document 1, in order to mount the process unit, first, a cover that can be opened and closed by a hinge mechanism provided on the side surface of the apparatus body is rotated to open the process unit housing, and then the housing is accommodated. A guide member provided on the side of the process unit is engaged with a rail formed on the inner side of the unit, and the process unit is inserted into the back of the apparatus main body as it is.

特開平８−１６０６２号公報JP-A-8-16062

ところが、特許文献１の画像形成装置は、プロセスユニットの収容部の開閉カバーを本体側面に１箇所設けているだけであり、このような構成では、収容部の開口部を完全に開放する位置まで開閉カバーを動かしたとても、開閉カバー自身が作業者の視覚的な障害となるため、物理的および心理的に、プロセスユニットを装置本体内に挿入し難いという問題があった。   However, the image forming apparatus of Patent Document 1 is provided with only one opening / closing cover for the housing part of the process unit on the side surface of the main body. With such a configuration, the image forming apparatus can reach a position where the opening part of the housing part is completely opened. Since the opening / closing cover itself has moved, the opening / closing cover itself becomes a visual obstacle to the operator, and thus there is a problem that it is difficult to physically and psychologically insert the process unit into the apparatus main body.

また、特許文献１の画像形成装置では、開口部が本体側面にあることから、構造上、その開口面積を大きくとることができず、このため本体を小型化すると、それに伴ってメンテナンス用の作業空間も小さくなり、プロセスユニットの着脱などがますます困難になってしまうという問題もあった。   Further, in the image forming apparatus of Patent Document 1, since the opening is on the side surface of the main body, the opening area cannot be increased due to the structure. For this reason, when the main body is downsized, the maintenance work is accordingly performed. There is also a problem that the space becomes smaller and it becomes more difficult to attach and detach the process unit.

その上、特許文献１の画像形成装置では、上記のように開口部を十分大きくとることができないことから、画像形成装置の内部に手や工具等を入れる余地が少なく、このため、プロセスユニットの取替えに時間がかかってしまうという問題もあった。また、作業者が、このような十分に大きくない開口部からプロセスユニットを無理な姿勢で取り出そうとすると、プロセスユニットまたは本体に破損や故障を引き起こしたりする懸念もあった。   In addition, the image forming apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1 cannot have a sufficiently large opening as described above, so there is little room for putting a hand, a tool, or the like inside the image forming apparatus. There was also a problem that the replacement took time. Further, when an operator tries to take out the process unit from such an opening that is not sufficiently large, there is a concern that the process unit or the main body may be damaged or broken.

さらに別の問題として、画像形成装置本体の小型化に伴ってプロセスユニットの容量が低下すると、プロセスユニットの使用可能時間が短くなり、頻繁な交換が必要になるなど、不便なことも多いと考えられる。   As another problem, if the capacity of the process unit decreases with the downsizing of the main body of the image forming apparatus, it is often inconvenient that the usable time of the process unit is shortened and frequent replacement is required. It is done.

従って、本発明は、上記問題点に鑑みてなされたものであり、プロセスユニットの着脱作業が確実かつ容易である画像形成装置を提供することを目的とする。さらには、画像形成装置自体を小型化しても、プロセスユニットの容量をできる限り大きく確保し、それにより、プロセスユニットの使用可能時間の短縮や新品との交換頻度の増加等の問題を抑制することを目的とする。   Accordingly, the present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide an image forming apparatus in which a process unit can be attached and detached reliably and easily. Furthermore, even if the image forming apparatus itself is downsized, the capacity of the process unit is secured as much as possible, thereby suppressing problems such as shortening the usable time of the process unit and increasing the frequency of replacement with a new one. With the goal.

本発明に係る画像形成装置は、トナー像が形成される像担持体を少なくとも有するプロセスユニットを着脱可能に収納する本体と、前記本体の内部に設けられ、前記本体の上面と側面との交差部分を跨いで開口部を有する前記プロセスユニットの収容部と、前記収容部内に形成され、前記開口部から斜め下方に向けて前記プロセスユニットを導入する導入ガイドとを備えており、前記本体は、前記本体の前記上面に配置された第１開閉カバーと、前記本体の前記側面に配置された第２開閉カバーとを有しており、前記第１開閉カバーと前記第２開閉カバーとは、前記開口部の閉鎖状態で、それぞれのカバーの開閉動作の先端部が互いに当接することを特徴とし、これにより上記目的が達成される。   An image forming apparatus according to the present invention includes a main body that detachably houses a process unit having at least an image carrier on which a toner image is formed, and an intersection between an upper surface and a side surface of the main body. A housing portion of the process unit that has an opening across the opening, and an introduction guide that is formed in the housing portion and that introduces the process unit obliquely downward from the opening, A first opening / closing cover disposed on the upper surface of the main body; and a second opening / closing cover disposed on the side surface of the main body, wherein the first opening / closing cover and the second opening / closing cover include the opening. In the closed state, the front ends of the opening and closing operations of the respective covers are in contact with each other, whereby the above object is achieved.

本構成の画像形成装置では、本体の上面に配置された第１開閉カバーと本体の側面に配置された第２開閉カバーとが、プロセスユニットの収容部の開口部を閉鎖した状態で、それぞれのカバーの開閉動作の先端部が互いに当接するように構成されているので、第１開閉カバーおよび第２開閉カバーを共に開放状態にしたときに、両カバーの開閉動作の先端部はプロセスユニットの導入経路から最遠の場所に位置し、それにより、開口部を最大面積で作業者側に露呈させることが可能となる。従って、作業者は、この最大限に開いた開口部を通して、プロセスユニットの着脱等をすることが可能となるので、確実かつ容易にメンテナンス作業をすることができる。   In the image forming apparatus of this configuration, the first opening / closing cover disposed on the upper surface of the main body and the second opening / closing cover disposed on the side surface of the main body close the opening of the housing portion of the process unit. Since the front end portions of the cover opening / closing operation are in contact with each other, when both the first opening / closing cover and the second opening / closing cover are opened, the front end portion of the opening / closing operation of both covers is the introduction of the process unit. It is located at the farthest place from the route, so that the opening can be exposed to the worker side with the maximum area. Therefore, the operator can attach and detach the process unit through the maximum opening, so that the maintenance operation can be performed reliably and easily.

また、本構成の画像形成装置は、このような十分に大きい開口部を有しており、さらに、プロセスユニットを導入するための導入ガイドが、そのような開口部から斜め下方（すなわち、本体の側面から見て本体の対角線方向）に設置されているので、画像形成装置自体が小型化されてもプロセスユニットの収容部を最大限確保することが可能となり、プロセスユニットの容量減少を回避することができる。従って、プロセスユニットの使用可能時間が短くなったり、新品との頻繁な交換が必要であったりなどの問題はほとんど起こらない。   Further, the image forming apparatus of this configuration has such a sufficiently large opening, and an introduction guide for introducing the process unit is obliquely downward (that is, the main body of the main body). Since it is installed in the diagonal direction of the main body when viewed from the side, even if the image forming apparatus itself is downsized, it is possible to secure the maximum capacity of the process unit and avoid a decrease in the capacity of the process unit. Can do. Therefore, problems such as shortening of the usable time of the process unit and frequent replacement with a new one hardly occur.

さらに、本発明の画像形成装置では、前記先端部が互いに当接する位置は、前記交差部分の近傍とすることが好適である。   Furthermore, in the image forming apparatus of the present invention, it is preferable that a position where the tip portions abut each other is in the vicinity of the intersecting portion.

本構成であれば、本体の上面と側面との交差部分近傍において、第１開閉カバーと第２開閉カバーとが分割するように開くことができるので、両カバーが作業者の作業の障害にならず、良好な視界を維持しながら開口部を作業者に露呈させることが可能となり、このため、プロセスユニットの着脱等のメンテナンス作業が物理的かつ心理的により容易になる。   With this configuration, the first opening / closing cover and the second opening / closing cover can be opened in the vicinity of the intersection between the upper surface and the side surface of the main body, so that both the covers obstruct the operator's work. Therefore, the opening can be exposed to the operator while maintaining a good field of view, and therefore, maintenance work such as attachment / detachment of the process unit becomes easier physically and psychologically.

さらに、本発明の画像形成装置では、前記第１開閉カバーおよび前記第２開閉カバーは、前記開口部の開放状態で、前記プロセスユニットの導入方向に対して略平行な姿勢に保持可能とすることがさらに好適である。   Further, in the image forming apparatus of the present invention, the first opening / closing cover and the second opening / closing cover can be held in a posture substantially parallel to the introduction direction of the process unit with the opening portion opened. Is more preferred.

本構成であれば、第１開閉カバー、第２開閉カバー、および導入ガイドが略平行になるので、作業者はガイドに対してプロセスユニットを平行に導入するだけで、プロセスユニットを導入ガイドに沿わせて本体内の収容部に入れ易くすることができる。   In this configuration, since the first opening / closing cover, the second opening / closing cover, and the introduction guide are substantially parallel to each other, the operator simply introduces the process unit parallel to the guide, and the process unit is aligned with the introduction guide. It can be made easy to put in the accommodating part in the main body.

以下、本発明の実施の形態について、図面を参照しながら説明する。なお、本発明は以下の実施の形態および図面に記載される構成に限定されるものではなく、当業者が実施し得る範囲において、あらゆる変更が可能である。   Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In addition, this invention is not limited to the structure described in the following embodiment and drawing, All changes are possible in the range which can be implemented by those skilled in the art.

図１は、本発明の画像形成装置１００の一例を示した斜視図である。画像形成装置１００は、トナー像が形成される像担持体を少なくとも有するプロセスユニット２を着脱可能に収納する本体１と、本体１の内部に設けられ、本体１の上面１ａと側面１ｂとの交差部分１ｃを跨いで開口部３を有するプロセスユニット２の収容部４と、収容部４内に形成され、開口部３から斜め下方に向けてプロセスユニット２を導入する導入ガイド５とを備えている。ここで、本体１は、その上面１ａに配置された第１開閉カバー６と、側面１ｂに配置された第２開閉カバー７とを有している。   FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of an image forming apparatus 100 of the present invention. The image forming apparatus 100 includes a main body 1 that removably houses a process unit 2 having at least an image carrier on which a toner image is formed, and an intersection between an upper surface 1a and a side surface 1b of the main body 1. The housing unit 4 of the process unit 2 having the opening 3 across the portion 1c and the introduction guide 5 formed in the housing 4 and introducing the process unit 2 obliquely downward from the opening 3 are provided. . Here, the main body 1 has a first opening / closing cover 6 disposed on the upper surface 1a and a second opening / closing cover 7 disposed on the side surface 1b.

なお、本発明の構成において、上面１ａとは、本体１の操作パネル９の直下に存在する水平面のことを指し、側面１ｂは、上面１ａと直行する面のことを指す。図１では、側面１ｂは、操作パネル９側の面となっているが、他の面を側面として選択することも可能である。   In the configuration of the present invention, the upper surface 1a refers to a horizontal surface that exists directly below the operation panel 9 of the main body 1, and the side surface 1b refers to a surface that is orthogonal to the upper surface 1a. In FIG. 1, the side surface 1b is a surface on the operation panel 9 side, but another surface can be selected as the side surface.

図２は、第１開閉カバー６および第２開閉カバー７の開閉状態を示す画像形成装置１００の一部拡大側面図である。第１開閉カバー６は、本体１の上面１ａ側に、回動軸６ｂによって回動可能に固定されている。また、第２開閉カバー７は、本体１の側面１ｂ側に、回動軸７ｂによって回動可能に固定されている。各回動軸６ｂ，７ｂは、開口部３を挟んだ対向位置に配置されている。   FIG. 2 is a partially enlarged side view of the image forming apparatus 100 showing an opened / closed state of the first opening / closing cover 6 and the second opening / closing cover 7. The first opening / closing cover 6 is fixed to the upper surface 1a side of the main body 1 so as to be rotatable by a rotation shaft 6b. The second opening / closing cover 7 is fixed to the side surface 1b of the main body 1 so as to be rotatable by a rotation shaft 7b. Each rotating shaft 6b, 7b is disposed at an opposing position with the opening 3 interposed therebetween.

第１開閉カバー６および第２開閉カバー７は、開口部３を閉鎖した状態では、それぞれのカバーの開閉動作の先端部６ａ，７ａが互いに当接した状態となる（図２（ａ）参照）。そして、このカバーの閉鎖状態では、第１開閉カバー６は本体１の上面１ａの一部をなし、第２開閉カバー６は本体１の側面１ｂの一部をなす。また、このカバーの閉鎖状態において、２つの先端部６ａ，７ａが当接したときに、両者が係合状態となるような構成であってもよい。このようにすれば、画像形成装置の稼動中に不意にカバーが開くことがなく、安全な作業を行うことができる。   When the opening 3 is closed, the first opening / closing cover 6 and the second opening / closing cover 7 are in a state where the front end portions 6a and 7a of the opening / closing operation of the respective covers are in contact with each other (see FIG. 2A). . In the closed state of the cover, the first opening / closing cover 6 forms part of the upper surface 1 a of the main body 1, and the second opening / closing cover 6 forms part of the side surface 1 b of the main body 1. Moreover, when the two front-end | tip parts 6a and 7a contact | abut in the closed state of this cover, the structure that both will be in an engagement state may be sufficient. In this way, a safe operation can be performed without the cover being unexpectedly opened during operation of the image forming apparatus.

一方、第１開閉カバー６および第２開閉カバー７が開口部３を完全に開放状態にするときは、両カバーの開閉動作の先端部６ａ，７ａはプロセスユニット２の導入経路から最遠に位置する（図２（ｂ）参照）。すなわち、開放時には、開口部３を最大面積で作業者側に露呈させることが可能となる。従って、作業者は、この最大限に開いた開口部３を通して、プロセスユニット２の着脱等のメンテナンス作業を確実かつ容易に行うことができる。   On the other hand, when the first opening / closing cover 6 and the second opening / closing cover 7 completely open the opening 3, the leading ends 6a, 7a of the opening / closing operation of both covers are located farthest from the introduction path of the process unit 2. (See FIG. 2 (b)). That is, at the time of opening, the opening 3 can be exposed to the worker side with the maximum area. Therefore, the operator can perform maintenance work such as attachment / detachment of the process unit 2 reliably and easily through the opening 3 that is opened to the maximum.

また、本発明の画像形成装置１００では、上記のように大きい開口部３を有していること、およびプロセスユニット２を導入するための導入ガイド５が開口部３から斜め下方に設置されている（すなわち、画像形成装置１００の本体１内部において最長距離がとれる本体１の側面から見た本体の対角線に沿って導入ガイド５が設けられている）ことを考慮すると、画像形成装置１００自体を小型化してもプロセスユニット２の収容部４を最大限確保することが可能となり、よって、プロセスユニット２の容量減少を回避することができる。これにより、プロセスユニット２の使用可能時間が短くなるということもなく、新品との頻繁な交換の煩わしさもなくなる。   Further, in the image forming apparatus 100 of the present invention, the large opening 3 is provided as described above, and the introduction guide 5 for introducing the process unit 2 is installed obliquely downward from the opening 3. (In other words, the introduction guide 5 is provided along the diagonal line of the main body 1 as viewed from the side of the main body 1 that can take the longest distance inside the main body 1 of the image forming apparatus 100). Even if the size of the process unit 2 is increased, it is possible to secure the accommodating portion 4 of the process unit 2 as much as possible. Thereby, the usable time of the process unit 2 is not shortened, and the trouble of frequent replacement with a new one is also eliminated.

なお、画像形成装置１００は、図１に示すように、通常その上部に原稿読み取り部８や操作パネル９が配置されているが、本発明では、原稿読み取り部８や操作パネル９が第１開閉カバー６の開閉動作に干渉しないように、それらは、第１開閉カバー６の最大開放位置よりも上方に設けられているので、操作上の問題はない。   As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 100 is normally provided with a document reading unit 8 and an operation panel 9 on the upper portion thereof. However, in the present invention, the document reading unit 8 and the operation panel 9 are first opened and closed. Since they are provided above the maximum opening position of the first opening / closing cover 6 so as not to interfere with the opening / closing operation of the cover 6, there is no problem in operation.

次に、本発明の画像形成装置１００内へのプロセスユニット２の装着手順について、図３〜図５を参照して説明する。   Next, a procedure for mounting the process unit 2 in the image forming apparatus 100 according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

図３は、プロセスユニット２が未装着の状態を示す画像形成装置１００の側面図である。図３では、第１開閉カバー６および第２開閉カバー７は、開口部３を完全に開放した状態が示されている。この開放状態では、第１開閉カバー６および第２開閉カバー７は、プロセスユニット２の導入方向に対して略平行な姿勢に保持することができる。   FIG. 3 is a side view of the image forming apparatus 100 in a state where the process unit 2 is not attached. In FIG. 3, the first opening / closing cover 6 and the second opening / closing cover 7 show a state in which the opening 3 is completely opened. In this open state, the first opening / closing cover 6 and the second opening / closing cover 7 can be held in a posture substantially parallel to the introduction direction of the process unit 2.

図４は、プロセスユニット２が装着される途中の状態を示す画像形成装置１００の側面図である。作業者は、プロセスユニット２を、開口部３から本体１内の収容部４に、導入ガイド５に沿わせてスライドさせながら導入することができる。ここで、導入ガイド５としては、例えば、プロセスユニット２の両側面に突出するピンをガイドする導入レールを収容部４の両側壁に形成した構成、収容部４の内部に導入板を配置した構成など任意の構成などを採用することができる。図４では、導入ガイド５として、導入板を使用した例が示されている。また、導入ガイド５の途中には、プロセスユニット２のスライドを止めるストッパー５ａを少なくとも１箇所設けることができる。これにより、プロセスユニット２を収容部４内に完全に収容し、かつ収容部４内で安定させることができる。   FIG. 4 is a side view of the image forming apparatus 100 showing a state where the process unit 2 is being mounted. The operator can introduce the process unit 2 from the opening 3 into the accommodating portion 4 in the main body 1 while sliding along the introduction guide 5. Here, as the introduction guide 5, for example, a configuration in which introduction rails for guiding pins protruding on both side surfaces of the process unit 2 are formed on both side walls of the accommodating portion 4, and a configuration in which an introducing plate is disposed inside the accommodating portion 4. Arbitrary structures etc. are employable. In FIG. 4, an example in which an introduction plate is used as the introduction guide 5 is shown. Further, at least one stopper 5 a for stopping the slide of the process unit 2 can be provided in the middle of the introduction guide 5. Thereby, the process unit 2 can be completely accommodated in the accommodating part 4 and can be stabilized in the accommodating part 4.

プロセスユニット２を本体１の収容部４に導入するときは、第１開閉カバー６および第２開閉カバー７は、上述したように、導入ガイド５と略平行な姿勢に保持されており、作業者は導入ガイド５に対してプロセスユニット２を平行に導入するだけで、プロセスユニット２を導入ガイド５に沿わせて本体１内の収容部４に容易に入れることができる。   When the process unit 2 is introduced into the housing portion 4 of the main body 1, the first opening / closing cover 6 and the second opening / closing cover 7 are held in a posture substantially parallel to the introduction guide 5 as described above. The process unit 2 can be easily placed along the introduction guide 5 in the accommodating portion 4 in the main body 1 simply by introducing the process unit 2 in parallel to the introduction guide 5.

図５は、プロセスユニット２が完全に装着された状態を示す画像形成装置１００の側面図である。図５では、第１開閉カバー６および第２開閉カバー７は、開口部３を閉鎖した状態で示されている。そして、図５の閉鎖状態では、第１開閉カバー６の先端部６ａと第２開閉カバー７の先端部７ａとは、本体１の上面１ａと側面１ｂとの交差部分１ｃの近傍で当接している。このようにすると、両カバーを開いたときに、両カバーが作業者の作業の障害にならず、良好な視界を維持しながら開口部を作業者に露呈させることが可能となり、このため、プロセスユニットの着脱等のメンテナンス作業が物理的かつ心理的により容易になる。   FIG. 5 is a side view of the image forming apparatus 100 showing a state where the process unit 2 is completely attached. In FIG. 5, the first opening / closing cover 6 and the second opening / closing cover 7 are shown with the opening 3 closed. In the closed state of FIG. 5, the distal end portion 6 a of the first opening / closing cover 6 and the distal end portion 7 a of the second opening / closing cover 7 are in contact with each other in the vicinity of the intersection 1 c between the upper surface 1 a and the side surface 1 b of the main body 1. Yes. In this way, when both covers are opened, both covers do not become an obstacle to the work of the worker, and it is possible to expose the opening to the worker while maintaining a good field of view. Maintenance work such as attachment and detachment of units becomes easier physically and psychologically.

以上のように、本発明によれば、プロセスユニットの着脱作業が確実かつ容易である画像形成装置を提供することが可能となる。さらには、画像形成装置自体を小型化しても、プロセスユニットの容量をできる限り大きく確保し、それにより、プロセスユニットの使用可能時間の短縮や新品との交換頻度の増加等の問題を抑制することが可能となる。   As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus in which the process unit can be attached and detached reliably and easily. Furthermore, even if the image forming apparatus itself is downsized, the capacity of the process unit is secured as much as possible, thereby suppressing problems such as shortening the usable time of the process unit and increasing the frequency of replacement with a new one. Is possible.

＜別実施形態＞
（１）プロセスユニット２の導入ガイドの別実施形態として、図６に、プロセスユニット２の両側面に突出するピン２ａをガイドする導入レール１５を収容部４の両側壁に形成した構成を示す。ピン２ａは、プロセスユニット２の両側面において、それぞれ少なくとも１箇所ずつ設けられている。また、導入レール１５には、ピン２ａを受け入れ可能な凹部１５ａが設けられている。プロセスユニット２を収容部４内に導入するには、プロセスユニット２の両側面のピン２ａを導入レール１５に通し、そのまま本体内に向けてスライドさせるだけでよい。そして、ピン２ａが導入レール１５に設けられた凹部１５ａに嵌まると、プロセスユニット２は収容部４内に固定される。
（２）第１開閉カバーおよび第２開閉カバーの構成を、例えば、図７に示すように、第１開閉カバー１６を本体の上面および側面の一部となるＬ型断面を有するものとし、第２開閉カバー１７を本体の側面の一部となるＩ型断面を有するものとすることもできる。このような構成であっても、両カバーを開放状態にしたときは開口部を最大面積で作業者側に露呈させることが可能となるので、作業者は、この最大限に開いた開口部を通して、プロセスユニットの着脱等をすることが可能となり、確実かつ容易にメンテナンス作業をすることができる。なお、第１開閉カバー１６を本体の上面の一部となるＩ型断面を有するものとし、第２開閉カバー１７を本体の上面および側面の一部となるＬ型断面を有するものとした場合も同様である。
（３）また、さらに別の実施形態として、例えば、図８に示すように、第１開閉カバーおよび第２開閉カバーの構成を、スライドにより開閉可能な第１開閉カバー２６および第２開閉カバー２７とすることもできる。この構成では、本体の上面と側面との交差部分近傍で第１開閉カバー２６と第２開閉カバー２７とがスライドして当接するので、両カバーを開放状態にしたときは開口部を大きくとることができる。このため、両カバーが作業者の作業の障害にならず、良好な視界を維持しながら開口部を作業者に露呈させることが可能となる。よって、プロセスユニットの着脱等のメンテナンス作業が物理的かつ心理的により容易になる。 <Another embodiment>
(1) As another embodiment of the introduction guide of the process unit 2, FIG. 6 shows a configuration in which introduction rails 15 for guiding the pins 2 a protruding on both side surfaces of the process unit 2 are formed on both side walls of the housing portion 4. At least one pin 2 a is provided on each side surface of the process unit 2. The introduction rail 15 is provided with a recess 15a that can receive the pin 2a. In order to introduce the process unit 2 into the housing portion 4, the pins 2a on both side surfaces of the process unit 2 need only be passed through the introduction rail 15 and slid directly into the main body. When the pin 2 a is fitted into the recess 15 a provided in the introduction rail 15, the process unit 2 is fixed in the housing portion 4.
(2) The configuration of the first opening / closing cover and the second opening / closing cover is such that, for example, as shown in FIG. 7, the first opening / closing cover 16 has an L-shaped cross section that becomes a part of the upper surface and side surfaces of the main body. The two open / close cover 17 may have an I-shaped cross section that becomes a part of the side surface of the main body. Even in such a configuration, when both covers are opened, the opening can be exposed to the worker side with the maximum area. The process unit can be attached and detached, and the maintenance work can be performed reliably and easily. The first opening / closing cover 16 may have an I-shaped cross section that becomes a part of the upper surface of the main body, and the second opening / closing cover 17 may have an L-shaped cross section that becomes a part of the upper surface and side surfaces of the main body. It is the same.
(3) As still another embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 8, the first opening / closing cover 26 and the second opening / closing cover 27 can be opened and closed by sliding the configurations of the first opening / closing cover and the second opening / closing cover. It can also be. In this configuration, the first opening / closing cover 26 and the second opening / closing cover 27 slide and come into contact with each other in the vicinity of the intersection between the upper surface and the side surface of the main body. Can do. For this reason, both covers do not become an obstacle to the work of the worker, and the opening can be exposed to the worker while maintaining a good field of view. Therefore, maintenance work such as attachment / detachment of the process unit becomes easier physically and psychologically.

本発明の画像形成装置の一例を示した斜視図The perspective view which showed an example of the image forming apparatus of this invention 第１開閉カバーおよび第２開閉カバーの開閉状態を示す画像形成装置の一部拡大側面図The partially expanded side view of the image forming apparatus which shows the open / close state of a 1st opening / closing cover and a 2nd opening / closing cover プロセスユニットが未装着の状態を示す画像形成装置の側面図Side view of image forming apparatus showing process unit not mounted プロセスユニットが装着される途中の状態を示す画像形成装置の側面図Side view of the image forming apparatus showing a state where the process unit is being mounted プロセスユニットが完全に装着された状態を示す画像形成装置の側面図Side view of the image forming apparatus showing a state in which the process unit is completely attached 別実施形態によるプロセスユニットの導入ガイドを示す画像形成装置の側面図The side view of the image forming apparatus which shows the introduction guide of the process unit by another embodiment 別実施形態による第１開閉カバーおよび第２開閉カバーの開閉状態を示す画像形成装置の一部拡大側面図The partially expanded side view of the image forming apparatus which shows the open / close state of the 1st opening / closing cover by another embodiment, and a 2nd opening / closing cover 別実施形態による第１開閉カバーおよび第２開閉カバーの開閉状態を示す画像形成装置の一部拡大側面図The partially expanded side view of the image forming apparatus which shows the open / close state of the 1st opening / closing cover by another embodiment, and a 2nd opening / closing cover

符号の説明Explanation of symbols

１ 本体
２ プロセスユニット
３ 開口部
４ 収容部
５ 導入ガイド
６ 第１開閉カバー
７ 第２開閉カバー
８ 原稿読み取り部
９ 操作パネル
１００ 画像形成装置 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Main body 2 Process unit 3 Opening part 4 Storage part 5 Introduction guide 6 1st opening / closing cover 7 2nd opening / closing cover 8 Document reading part 9 Operation panel 100 Image forming apparatus

Claims (3)

トナー像が形成される像担持体を少なくとも有するプロセスユニットを着脱可能に収納する本体と、
前記本体の内部に設けられ、前記本体の上面と側面との交差部分を跨いで開口部を有する前記プロセスユニットの収容部と、
前記収容部内に形成され、前記開口部から斜め下方に向けて前記プロセスユニットを導入する導入ガイドと
を備えた画像形成装置であって、
前記本体は、前記本体の前記上面に配置された第１開閉カバーと、前記本体の前記側面に配置された第２開閉カバーとを有しており、前記第１開閉カバーと前記第２開閉カバーとは、前記開口部の閉鎖状態で、それぞれのカバーの開閉動作の先端部が互いに当接する画像形成装置。 A main body detachably storing a process unit having at least an image carrier on which a toner image is formed;
A container for the process unit provided inside the main body and having an opening across an intersecting portion of the upper surface and the side surface of the main body;
An image forming apparatus comprising: an introduction guide formed in the housing portion and introducing the process unit obliquely downward from the opening portion;
The main body includes a first open / close cover disposed on the upper surface of the main body and a second open / close cover disposed on the side surface of the main body, the first open / close cover and the second open / close cover. Is an image forming apparatus in which the front ends of the opening and closing operations of the respective covers are in contact with each other when the opening is closed. 前記先端部が互いに当接する位置は、前記交差部分の近傍である請求項１に記載の画像形成装置。   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a position where the tip portions abut each other is in the vicinity of the intersecting portion. 前記第１開閉カバーおよび前記第２開閉カバーは、前記開口部の開放状態で、前記プロセスユニットの導入方向に対して略平行な姿勢に保持可能である請求項１または２に記載の画像形成装置。   3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first opening / closing cover and the second opening / closing cover can be held in a substantially parallel posture with respect to an introduction direction of the process unit with the opening being opened. .
JP2003331562A 2003-09-24 2003-09-24 Image forming apparatus Expired - Fee Related JP4599045B2 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
JP2003331562A JP4599045B2 (en) 2003-09-24 2003-09-24 Image forming apparatus

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
JP2003331562A JP4599045B2 (en) 2003-09-24 2003-09-24 Image forming apparatus

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
JP2005099292A true JP2005099292A (en) 2005-04-14
JP4599045B2 JP4599045B2 (en) 2010-12-15

Family

ID=34460188

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
JP2003331562A Expired - Fee Related JP4599045B2 (en) 2003-09-24 2003-09-24 Image forming apparatus

Country Status (1)

Country Link
JP (1) JP4599045B2 (en)

Cited By (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2009036922A (en) * 2007-07-31 2009-02-19 Brother Ind Ltd Image forming apparatus
JP2010102319A (en) * 2008-09-29 2010-05-06 Canon Inc Electrophotographic image forming apparatus
JP2010122661A (en) * 2008-10-22 2010-06-03 Canon Inc Image forming apparatus
JP2019066687A (en) * 2017-10-02 2019-04-25 株式会社リコー Air filtering device and image forming apparatus
JP2019174618A (en) * 2018-03-28 2019-10-10 株式会社沖データ Developer storage container and image formation apparatus
US20210306491A1 (en) * 2020-03-24 2021-09-30 Kyocera Document Solutions Inc. Image forming apparatus

Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPS6055195A (en) * 1983-09-05 1985-03-30 キヤノン株式会社 Image forming apparatus
JPS60120452U (en) * 1984-01-21 1985-08-14 富士ゼロックス株式会社 Copy machine door opening/closing device
JPH04296885A (en) * 1991-03-27 1992-10-21 Konica Corp Image forming device
JPH07281574A (en) * 1994-04-04 1995-10-27 Casio Electron Mfg Co Ltd Image forming device
JPH0816062A (en) * 1994-06-27 1996-01-19 Canon Inc Image forming device
JPH08194428A (en) * 1995-01-19 1996-07-30 Tec Corp Process unit supporting apparatus
JP2000039827A (en) * 1998-07-23 2000-02-08 Sharp Corp Image forming device

Patent Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPS6055195A (en) * 1983-09-05 1985-03-30 キヤノン株式会社 Image forming apparatus
JPS60120452U (en) * 1984-01-21 1985-08-14 富士ゼロックス株式会社 Copy machine door opening/closing device
JPH04296885A (en) * 1991-03-27 1992-10-21 Konica Corp Image forming device
JPH07281574A (en) * 1994-04-04 1995-10-27 Casio Electron Mfg Co Ltd Image forming device
JPH0816062A (en) * 1994-06-27 1996-01-19 Canon Inc Image forming device
JPH08194428A (en) * 1995-01-19 1996-07-30 Tec Corp Process unit supporting apparatus
JP2000039827A (en) * 1998-07-23 2000-02-08 Sharp Corp Image forming device

Cited By (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2009036922A (en) * 2007-07-31 2009-02-19 Brother Ind Ltd Image forming apparatus
JP2010102319A (en) * 2008-09-29 2010-05-06 Canon Inc Electrophotographic image forming apparatus
JP4562207B2 (en) * 2008-09-29 2010-10-13 キヤノン株式会社 Electrophotographic image forming apparatus
US8238786B2 (en) 2008-09-29 2012-08-07 Canon Kabushiki Kaisha Electrophotographic image forming apparatus with openings for cartridge insertion and removal
JP2010122661A (en) * 2008-10-22 2010-06-03 Canon Inc Image forming apparatus
JP2019066687A (en) * 2017-10-02 2019-04-25 株式会社リコー Air filtering device and image forming apparatus
JP7000784B2 (en) 2017-10-02 2022-01-19 株式会社リコー Air filtration device and image forming device
JP2019174618A (en) * 2018-03-28 2019-10-10 株式会社沖データ Developer storage container and image formation apparatus
US20210306491A1 (en) * 2020-03-24 2021-09-30 Kyocera Document Solutions Inc. Image forming apparatus
US11838464B2 (en) * 2020-03-24 2023-12-05 Kyocera Document Solutions Inc. Image forming apparatus

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
JP4599045B2 (en) 2010-12-15

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
JP5274310B2 (en) Image forming apparatus
JP2007086733A (en) Image forming apparatus
JP4599045B2 (en) Image forming apparatus
JP2007003660A (en) Image forming device
JPH07199568A (en) Image-forming device
JP2003101253A (en) Information processor with front cover
JP2004191533A (en) Image forming apparatus
CN111308874B (en) Image forming apparatus
JP4537466B2 (en) Image forming apparatus
JP2017207606A (en) Image forming apparatus
US11838464B2 (en) Image forming apparatus
JP2005301181A (en) Image forming apparatus
JP2012118258A (en) Photoreceptor unit and image forming apparatus
JP2009169121A (en) Image forming apparatus
JP3958117B2 (en) Image forming apparatus
JP2006147678A (en) Housing structure of device and sub-cover opening/closing structure
US8068754B2 (en) Image forming apparatus equipped having a hinge portion that connects an image forming portion and image reading portion
US10222739B2 (en) Imaging forming apparatus configured to restrict the rotatable range of a cover member that closes or opens an opening of a housing
JP2016141073A (en) Image formation device
JP6380271B2 (en) Image forming apparatus
JP5627318B2 (en) Image forming apparatus
KR100982279B1 (en) Image Forming Apparatus having a improved Opening and Closing Apparatus
JP6673272B2 (en) Image forming device
JP2002225392A (en) Imaging apparatus
JP4658822B2 (en) Electronics

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
A621 Written request for application examination

Free format text: JAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: A621

Effective date: 20060825

A977 Report on retrieval

Free format text: JAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: A971007

Effective date: 20090520

A131 Notification of reasons for refusal

Free format text: JAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: A131

Effective date: 20090528

A521 Written amendment

Free format text: JAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: A523

Effective date: 20090724

A131 Notification of reasons for refusal

Free format text: JAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: A131

Effective date: 20100114

A521 Written amendment

Free format text: JAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: A523

Effective date: 20100312

TRDD Decision of grant or rejection written
A01 Written decision to grant a patent or to grant a registration (utility model)

Free format text: JAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: A01

Effective date: 20100902

A01 Written decision to grant a patent or to grant a registration (utility model)

Free format text: JAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: A01

A61 First payment of annual fees (during grant procedure)

Free format text: JAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: A61

Effective date: 20100927

R150 Certificate of patent or registration of utility model

Ref document number: 4599045

Country of ref document: JP

Free format text: JAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: R150

Free format text: JAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: R150

FPAY Renewal fee payment (event date is renewal date of database)

Free format text: PAYMENT UNTIL: 20131001

Year of fee payment: 3

FPAY Renewal fee payment (event date is renewal date of database)

Free format text: PAYMENT UNTIL: 20131001

Year of fee payment: 3

S533 Written request for registration of change of name

Free format text: JAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: R313533

FPAY Renewal fee payment (event date is renewal date of database)

Free format text: PAYMENT UNTIL: 20131001

Year of fee payment: 3

R350 Written notification of registration of transfer

Free format text: JAPANESE INTERMEDIATE CODE: R350

LAPS Cancellation because of no payment of annual fees