JP2010091994A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Image forming apparatus Download PDF

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JP2010091994A
JP2010091994A JP2008264680A JP2008264680A JP2010091994A JP 2010091994 A JP2010091994 A JP 2010091994A JP 2008264680 A JP2008264680 A JP 2008264680A JP 2008264680 A JP2008264680 A JP 2008264680A JP 2010091994 A JP2010091994 A JP 2010091994A
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side member
roller
developing device
photosensitive
device side
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JP5195259B2 (en
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Hideto Sakurai
英人 櫻井
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Konica Minolta Business Technologies Inc
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Konica Minolta Business Technologies Inc
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Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming apparatus which has a photoreceptor side member incorporating a photoreceptor drum and a developing unit side member incorporating a developing roller in a manner coming close to each other or separating from each other, suppresses their warping and maintain a highly precise clearance between the developing roller and the photoreceptor drum even when their position and size relations change over aging, and enables easy assembling and replacing of them. <P>SOLUTION: In a photoreceptor assembly 200 and the developing unit assembly 210, a bearing is formed at a point in their axial directions to rotatably them in a manner coming close to each other or separating from each other, and positioning pieces are formed in two positions in their axial directions to position and fix those members. Those members are kept joined at three positions of two positioning positions and one bearing. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

この発明は、複写機、ＦＡＸ、プリンタ等の記録機器等の電子写真方式が適用された画像形成装置に関し、特に、感光体ドラムと現像ローラとが分離可能に接合されてなる画像形成装置に関する。   BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus to which an electrophotographic system such as a copying machine, a FAX, or a printer is applied, and more particularly to an image forming apparatus in which a photosensitive drum and a developing roller are detachably joined.

画像形成装置の主要部でもあるイメージングユニットには、製造や保守等の都合上、感光体ドラムが組み込まれた感光体側部材と現像ローラが組み込まれた現像器側部材とを分離可能に接合して構成されたものがある（例えば特許文献１参照）。   The imaging unit, which is also the main part of the image forming apparatus, is detachably joined with a photosensitive member side member incorporating a photosensitive drum and a developing device side member incorporating a developing roller for the convenience of manufacturing and maintenance. Some have been configured (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

一方、画像形成を行う際には、感光体ドラムと現像ローラとの間の隙間が一定でないと画質を安定させることができない。このため、前述したようなイメージングユニットには、組立性が良く、しかも感光体ドラムと現像ローラとの隙間を一定に保つことが要求される。   On the other hand, when forming an image, the image quality cannot be stabilized unless the gap between the photosensitive drum and the developing roller is constant. For this reason, the imaging unit as described above is required to be easily assembled and to maintain a constant gap between the photosensitive drum and the developing roller.

従来のこのようなイメージングユニットを図１０〜図１２に示す。   Such conventional imaging units are shown in FIGS.

このイメージングユニット６００は、感光体ドラムを有する感光体側部材６０１と、現像ローラが組み込まれた現像器側部材６１０を備え、感光体側部材６０１の下部における軸方向の両端部には、円柱状突起からなる枢軸６０２、６０２が形成されている。一方、現像器側部材６１０の下部における軸方向の両端部には、前記各枢軸６０２に対応する位置において、それぞれ枢軸に掛合可能な下向きＵ字状溝部からなる掛合部６１１、６１１が形成されている。   The imaging unit 600 includes a photoconductor side member 601 having a photoconductor drum and a developing device side member 610 in which a developing roller is incorporated. From both ends in the axial direction at the lower portion of the photoconductor side member 601, cylindrical projections are provided. The pivots 602 and 602 are formed. On the other hand, at both ends in the axial direction at the lower portion of the developing device side member 610, engaging portions 611 and 611 each formed of a downward U-shaped groove portion that can be engaged with the pivot are formed at positions corresponding to the respective pivots 602. Yes.

そして、感光体側部材６０１と現像器側部材６１０の組み付けに際しては、図１０に示すように、前記現像器側部材６１０の軸方向両端部の各掛合部６１１を、感光体側部材６０１の軸方向両端部の枢軸６０２にそれぞれ掛合させた状態で、各枢軸６０２を回動支点として、現像器側部材２１０を感光体側部材２００に接近する方向である半時計方向に回動させて、感光体側部材６０１と現像器側部材６１０を、図１１に示すように接合するものとなされている。   When assembling the photosensitive member side member 601 and the developing device side member 610, as shown in FIG. 10, the engaging portions 611 at both axial ends of the developing device side member 610 are connected to both axial ends of the photosensitive member side member 601. In the state of being engaged with the respective pivots 602, the developing device side member 210 is rotated in the counterclockwise direction, which is a direction approaching the photosensitive member side member 200, with each pivot 602 as a rotation fulcrum, and the photosensitive member side member 601. And the developing device side member 610 are joined as shown in FIG.

また、現像器側部材６００における図示しない現像ローラの回転軸６１２上には、軸方向の両端部においてコロ６１３が取り付けられる一方、感光体側部材６０１には軸方向の両端部において側面視Ｕ字形のころ受け用溝部６０３が設けられている。   Further, rollers 613 are attached to both ends in the axial direction on the rotation shaft 612 of the developing roller (not shown) in the developing device side member 600, while the photosensitive member side member 601 has a U shape in side view at both ends in the axial direction. A roller receiving groove 603 is provided.

そして、現像器側部材６１０を感光体側部材６０１に対して接近方向に回動させ、図１１及び図１２に示すように、現像器側部材６１０側のコロ６１２を、感光体側部材６０１側のころ受け用溝部６０３に進入させることにより、感光体側部材６０１と現像器側部材６１０とが適正状態に固定され組み付けられるものとなされている。つまり、コロ６１３ところ受け用溝部６０３とが、感光体側部材６０１と現像器側部材６１０を位置決めするための位置決め部として機能する。   Then, the developing device side member 610 is rotated in the approaching direction with respect to the photosensitive member side member 601, and as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the roller 612 on the developing device side member 610 side is moved to the roller on the photosensitive member side member 601 side. By entering the receiving groove 603, the photosensitive member side member 601 and the developing device side member 610 are fixed and assembled in an appropriate state. That is, the roller 613 and the receiving groove 603 function as a positioning unit for positioning the photosensitive member side member 601 and the developing device side member 610.

なお、感光体ドラム６０４と現像ローラとの隙間を調整するために、必要に応じて図１２に示すように、前記溝部６０３の内面にＰＥＴシート等の隙間調整部材６０５を挟み込まれることもある。   In order to adjust the gap between the photosensitive drum 604 and the developing roller, a gap adjusting member 605 such as a PET sheet may be sandwiched between the inner surfaces of the groove 603 as necessary as shown in FIG.

従って、図１１に示す感光体側部材６０１と現像器側部材６１０の接合状態では、両部材は、各部材の下部における軸方向の両端部２箇所で、枢軸６０２と掛合部６１１との掛合により支持されるとともに、同じく両部材における軸方向の両端部２箇所で、コロ６１３ところ受け用溝部６０３とにより、感光体ドラムと現像ローラとの隙間を一定に保つように位置決めされた状態で、感光体側部材６０１と現像器側部材６１０が支持されていた。   Therefore, in the joined state of the photosensitive member side member 601 and the developing device side member 610 shown in FIG. 11, the two members are supported by the engagement between the pivot 602 and the engaging portion 611 at two axial end portions at the lower portion of each member. At the same time, the roller side 613 and the receiving groove 603 are positioned so that the gap between the photosensitive drum and the developing roller is kept constant at the two axial ends of both members. The member 601 and the developing device side member 610 were supported.

つまり、従来のイメージングユニット６００は、合計４箇所で、感光体側部材６０１と現像器側部材２１０６接合状態が保持されていた。   That is, in the conventional imaging unit 600, the joint state of the photosensitive member side member 601 and the developing device side member 2106 is maintained at a total of four locations.

なお、感光体ドラムと現像ローラとの隙間を調整管理するものとして、感光体ドラムの支持部材に隙間調整用の位置決め部材をスライド可能に配置し、その位置決め部材に形成した長孔を挿通して支持部材に螺着されるねじで該位置決め部材のスライド位置を調整可能に構成したイメージングユニットが提案されている（例えば、特許文献２参照）。   In order to adjust and manage the gap between the photosensitive drum and the developing roller, a positioning member for adjusting the gap is slidably arranged on the support member of the photosensitive drum, and a long hole formed in the positioning member is inserted. There has been proposed an imaging unit configured such that the slide position of the positioning member can be adjusted with a screw screwed to a support member (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

さらに、感光体ドラムと現像ローラとの間で、かつ軸方向の両端側に位置して円錐形のコロをそれぞれ配設し、これら両円錐形を前記現像ローラの軸方向へ変移させることにより、感光体ドラムと現像ローラとの間隙を調整する技術が開示されている（例えば、特許文献３参照）。
特開２００３−２８０４９０号公報 特開２００５−４３４８６号公報 特開２００３−１５６９１５号公報 Further, by disposing conical rollers between the photosensitive drum and the developing roller and on both ends in the axial direction, respectively, and changing both the conical shapes in the axial direction of the developing roller, A technique for adjusting the gap between the photosensitive drum and the developing roller is disclosed (for example, see Patent Document 3).
JP 2003-280490 A JP 2005-43486 A JP 2003-156915 A

しかし、上記のように、感光体側部材６０１と現像器側部材６１０の接合状態が、軸方向の両端部合計４箇所で保持される構成では、感光体側部材６０１の枢軸６０２と現像器側部材６１０の掛合部６１１等の位置関係ないし寸法関係に、経時的その他の理由で狂いが生じると、イメージングユニット６００の全体に歪みが生じ、現像ローラと感光体ドラムとの隙間を高精度に維持することが困難になるという問題があった。   However, as described above, in the configuration in which the joint state between the photosensitive member side member 601 and the developing device side member 610 is held at a total of four positions on both ends in the axial direction, the pivot 602 of the photosensitive member side member 601 and the developing device side member 610 are used. If the positional relationship or the dimensional relationship of the engaging portion 611 of the image sensor becomes distorted due to other reasons, the entire imaging unit 600 is distorted, and the gap between the developing roller and the photosensitive drum is maintained with high accuracy. There was a problem that became difficult.

また、感光体側部材６０１と現像器側部材６１０との組み付けに際しては、感光体側部材６０１と現像器側部材６１０を、軸方向両端部の合計４箇所で固定支持させなければならず、組立時や一方の部材の交換時の作業が些か面倒であるという問題もあった。   Further, when assembling the photosensitive member side member 601 and the developing device side member 610, the photosensitive member side member 601 and the developing device side member 610 must be fixedly supported at a total of four locations at both ends in the axial direction. There was also a problem that the work at the time of replacement of one member was a little troublesome.

なお、特許文献２及び３に記載の技術は、このような問題に対して解決策を提供しうるものではなかった。   Note that the techniques described in Patent Documents 2 and 3 have not been able to provide a solution to such a problem.

この発明は、上記実情に鑑みてなされたものであり、感光体側部材と現像器側部材の位置関係ないし寸法関係に、経時的その他の理由で狂いが生じても、各部材に歪みが生じるのを抑制し得て、現像ローラと感光体ドラムとの隙間を高精度に維持することができ、しかも、感光体側部材と現像器側部材の組立作業や一方の部材の交換作業を容易に行うことができる画像形成装置を提供することを課題としている。   The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and even if the positional relationship or dimensional relationship between the photosensitive member side member and the developing device side member is deviated over time or for other reasons, each member is distorted. The gap between the developing roller and the photosensitive drum can be maintained with high accuracy, and the assembly work of the photosensitive member side member and the developing device side member and the replacement work of one member can be easily performed. It is an object of the present invention to provide an image forming apparatus capable of performing the above.

上記課題は、以下の手段によって解決される。
（１）感光体ドラムが組み込まれた感光体側部材と現像ローラが組み込まれた現像器側部材とが接離可能に配設された画像形成装置において、前記感光体側部材及び現像器側部材には、両部材の軸方向の１箇所において両部材を接離方向に回動可能に支承する支承部が形成されると共に、両部材の軸方向の２箇所の位置において、両部材を位置決め固定する位置決め部が形成され、前記感光体側部材及び現像器側部材が、前記２箇所の位置決め部と１箇所の支承部の３箇所で接合状態が保持されるものとなされていることを特徴とする画像形成装置。
（２）前記支承部は、感光体側部材及び現像器側部材の一方に設けられた枢軸と、他方に設けられ前記枢軸に掛合される掛合部とからなり、前記枢軸は、感光体側部材及び現像器側部材との組み付け時に、前記枢軸に掛合部を掛合させた状態で、感光体側部材及び現像器側部材の少なくとも一方を、両部材が前記位置決め部材により位置決めされる位置まで回動させる際の回動支点として作用する前項１に記載の画像形成装置。
（３）前記感光体側部材と現像器側部材のうちのいずれか一方には、他方の軸部または他方に設けられた位置決め用のコロを進退可能に受け入れるコロ受け部が設けられており、このコロ受け部と該コロ受け部に受け入れられる前記軸部またはコロとにより、前記位置決め部が形成されており、前記コロ受け部は、感光体ドラムと同心円状のコロ当て面と該コロ当て面に対向する対向面を有している前項１または２に記載の画像形成装置。 The above problem is solved by the following means.
(1) In an image forming apparatus in which a photoconductor side member in which a photoconductor drum is incorporated and a developer side member in which a developing roller is incorporated are detachable, the photoconductor side member and the developer side member include In addition, a bearing portion for supporting both members so as to be rotatable in the contact / separation direction is formed at one place in the axial direction of both members, and positioning is performed for positioning and fixing both members at two positions in the axial direction of both members. Image forming apparatus, wherein the photosensitive member side member and the developing device side member are held in a joined state at three positions of the two positioning portions and one support portion. apparatus.
(2) The support portion includes a pivot provided on one of the photosensitive member side member and the developing device side member, and a hooking portion provided on the other side and engaged with the pivot. The pivot shaft includes the photosensitive member side member and the developing member. At the time of assembling with the developing device side member, at least one of the photosensitive member side member and the developing device side member is rotated to a position where both members are positioned by the positioning member with the engaging portion being engaged with the pivot. 2. The image forming apparatus as described in 1 above, which acts as a pivot point.
(3) Either one of the photosensitive member side member and the developing device side member is provided with a roller receiving portion that receives a positioning roller provided on the other shaft portion or the other in a movable manner. The positioning portion is formed by a roller receiving portion and the shaft portion or roller that is received by the roller receiving portion. The roller receiving portion is formed on a roller contact surface that is concentric with the photosensitive drum, and the roller contact surface. 3. The image forming apparatus according to 1 or 2 above, which has opposing surfaces.

前項（１）に記載の発明によれば、感光体側部材及び現像器側部材には、両部材の軸方向の２箇所の位置において位置決め部材が設けられると共に、１箇所に支承部材が設けられているから、感光体側部材と現像器側部材は２箇所の位置決め部材と１箇所の支承部材の３箇所で接合状態が保持されるものとなる。このため、従来の４箇所支持の場合に較べて、経時的な寸法の狂いその他の理由によってイメージングユニットに発生する応力を、解放することができるから、イメージングユニットの歪みを抑制でき、現像ローラと感光体ドラムとの隙間を長期に亘って高精度に維持することができる。しかも、感光体側部材と現像器側部材の固定支持は３箇所で良いから、組立作業や一方の部材の交換作業を容易に行うことができる。   According to the invention described in the preceding item (1), the photosensitive member side member and the developing device side member are provided with positioning members at two positions in the axial direction of both members, and a supporting member is provided at one position. Therefore, the photosensitive member-side member and the developing device-side member are held in a joined state at three positions, that is, two positioning members and one support member. For this reason, compared with the conventional four-point support, the stress generated in the imaging unit due to dimensional deviation over time and other reasons can be released, so that the distortion of the imaging unit can be suppressed, and the developing roller and The gap with the photosensitive drum can be maintained with high accuracy over a long period of time. In addition, since the photosensitive member-side member and the developing device-side member can be fixed and supported at three locations, the assembling operation or the replacement operation of one member can be easily performed.

前項（２）に記載の発明によれば、感光体側部材と現像器側部材の組立や一方の部材の交換時の取付作業を、一方の部材に設けた１個の枢軸と他方の部材に設けた１個の掛合部を掛合させた状態で、感光体側部材及び現像器側部材の少なくとも一方を両部材が前記位置決め部材により位置決めされる位置まで回動させることにより行うことができるから、組立等の作業を益々容易に行うことができる。   According to the invention described in the preceding item (2), the assembly work for the assembly of the photosensitive member side member and the developing device side member or the replacement work of one member is performed on one pivot provided on one member and the other member. In addition, it is possible to perform the assembly by rotating at least one of the photosensitive member side member and the developing device side member to the position where both members are positioned by the positioning member in a state where the single engaging portion is engaged. Can be done more and more easily.

前項（３）に記載の発明によれば、感光体側部材または現像器側部材のコロを他方の部材のコロ受け部に進入させることにより、両部材を所定の位置決め状態に容易に接合することができる。しかも、コロ受け部は、感光体ドラムと同心円状のコロ当て面と該コロ当て面に対向する対向面を有しているから、コロがコロ当て面と対向面に当接することによって、感光体ドラムと現像ローラとの間の隙間を適正に保持することができる。   According to the invention described in item (3), the rollers of the photosensitive member side member or the developing device side member are caused to enter the roller receiving portion of the other member so that both members can be easily joined in a predetermined positioning state. it can. In addition, since the roller receiving portion has a roller contact surface concentric with the photosensitive drum and an opposing surface facing the roller contact surface, the roller is in contact with the roller contact surface and the opposing surface. A gap between the drum and the developing roller can be properly maintained.

以下、この発明の一実施形態を図面に基づいて説明する。   Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

図１は、この発明の一実施形態に係る画像形成装置を示す概略構成図である。   FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

図１において、この画像形成装置１は、画像読取部１００、画像形成部１１０および給紙部１２０を備えている。   In FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 1 includes an image reading unit 100, an image forming unit 110, and a paper feeding unit 120.

前記画像読取部１００は、原稿画像を読み取って、マゼンダ（Ｍ）、シアン（Ｃ）、イエロー（Ｙ）、ブラック（Ｋ）の色成分毎に画像データを生成する。   The image reading unit 100 reads an original image and generates image data for each of the magenta (M), cyan (C), yellow (Y), and black (K) color components.

前記給紙部１２０は、給紙カセット１２１と、ピックアップローラ１２２と、レジストローラ１２３とを備えている。   The paper feed unit 120 includes a paper feed cassette 121, a pickup roller 122, and a registration roller 123.

前記給紙カセット１２１は、画像形成のための記録シート（用紙）を収納する。前記ピックアップローラ１２２は、記録シートを給紙カセット１２１から繰り出し、前記レジストローラ１２３は、記録シートを画像形成部１１０へ送り出すタイミングを採るようになっている。   The paper feed cassette 121 stores recording sheets (paper) for image formation. The pickup roller 122 feeds the recording sheet from the paper feed cassette 121, and the registration roller 123 takes the timing to send the recording sheet to the image forming unit 110.

前記画像形成部１１０は、転写ベルト１１１と、前記マゼンダ（Ｍ）、シアン（Ｃ）、イエロー（Ｙ）、ブラック（Ｋ）の４色に対応する４つ感光体ドラム１１２Ｍ，１１２Ｃ，１１２Ｙ，１１２Ｋと、帯電チャージャ１１３Ｍ，１１３Ｃ，１１３Ｙ，１１３Ｋと、現像器１１４Ｍ，１１４Ｃ，１１４Ｙ，１１４Ｋと、転写チャージャ１１５Ｍ，１１５Ｃ，１１５Ｙ，１１５Ｋと、露光走査部１１６Ｍ，１１６Ｃ，１１６Ｙ，１１６Ｋと、定着器１１７と、排紙トレイ１１８と、前ドア１１９とを備えている。   The image forming unit 110 includes a transfer belt 111 and four photosensitive drums 112M, 112C, 112Y, and 112K corresponding to the four colors of magenta (M), cyan (C), yellow (Y), and black (K). Charging chargers 113M, 113C, 113Y, 113K, developing devices 114M, 114C, 114Y, 114K, transfer chargers 115M, 115C, 115Y, 115K, exposure scanning units 116M, 116C, 116Y, 116K, and a fixing device 117. A paper discharge tray 118 and a front door 119.

前記転写ベルト１１１は、給紙部１２０から送り出された記録シートを定着器１１７まで搬送する。帯電チャージャ１１３Ｍ〜１１３Ｋは、それぞれ感光体ドラム１１２Ｍ〜１１２Ｋを一様に帯電させる。   The transfer belt 111 conveys the recording sheet sent from the paper feeding unit 120 to the fixing device 117. The charging chargers 113M to 113K uniformly charge the photosensitive drums 112M to 112K, respectively.

前記露光走査部１１６Ｍ〜１１６Ｋは、画像読取部１００が生成した画像データに基づいて、それぞれレーザダイオードにてレーザ光を出射する。当該レーザ光はポリゴンミラーにて偏光された後、一様に帯電した感光体ドラム１１２Ｍ〜１１２Ｋを露光走査する。これによって感光体ドラム１１２Ｍ〜１１２Ｋの表面にそれぞれ静電潜像が形成される。   The exposure scanning units 116 </ b> M to 116 </ b> K each emit laser light with a laser diode based on the image data generated by the image reading unit 100. The laser light is polarized by a polygon mirror, and then the uniformly charged photosensitive drums 112M to 112K are exposed and scanned. As a result, electrostatic latent images are formed on the surfaces of the photosensitive drums 112M to 112K, respectively.

前記現像器１１４Ｍ〜１１４Ｋは、それぞれ感光体ドラム１１２Ｍ〜１１２Ｋ上の静電気潜像を現像して、トナー像を形成する。   The developing units 114M to 114K develop electrostatic latent images on the photosensitive drums 112M to 112K, respectively, to form toner images.

前記転写チャージャ１１５Ｍ〜１１５Ｋは、それぞれ感光体ドラム１１２Ｍ〜１１２Ｋ上に形成されたトナー像を記録シート上に転写する。   The transfer chargers 115M to 115K transfer the toner images formed on the photosensitive drums 112M to 112K, respectively, onto a recording sheet.

前記定着器１１７は、記録シート上に多重転写されたトナー像を高熱で加圧することにより、トナー粒子を記録シート表面に融着させる。トナー像を定着させた記録シートは排紙トレイ１１８上に排出される。   The fixing unit 117 fuses toner particles to the surface of the recording sheet by pressurizing the toner image transferred onto the recording sheet with high heat. The recording sheet on which the toner image is fixed is discharged onto the paper discharge tray 118.

前記感光体ドラム１１２Ｍ〜１１２Ｋ、帯電チャージャ１１３Ｍ〜１１３Ｋ、現像器１１４Ｍ〜１１４Ｋおよび転写チャージャ１１５Ｍ〜１１５Ｋは、メンテナンスが容易に行えるようにユニット化されて１個のケーシング内に収納されている。これをイメージングユニットという。イメージングユニットは画像形成装置１内に着脱可能に格納されている。   The photosensitive drums 112M to 112K, the charging chargers 113M to 113K, the developing devices 114M to 114K, and the transfer chargers 115M to 115K are unitized and housed in one casing so that maintenance can be easily performed. This is called an imaging unit. The imaging unit is detachably stored in the image forming apparatus 1.

また、画像形成部１１０の前面部分には、開閉可能な前ドア１１９が設けられており、この前ドア１１９を前方に開放して、用紙搬送系に紙詰まり（ジャム）が生じたときにジャム紙を取り除き、あるいは、イメージングユニット等の消耗品の交換やトナーの補給などのメンテナンスが実行できるようになっている。   Further, a front door 119 that can be opened and closed is provided on the front surface portion of the image forming unit 110. When the front door 119 is opened forward, a jam occurs when a paper jam occurs in the paper transport system. Maintenance such as removal of paper or replacement of consumables such as an imaging unit or supply of toner can be performed.

図２は、この画像形成装置１におけるイメージングユニット２の構成を示す側面図である。   FIG. 2 is a side view showing the configuration of the imaging unit 2 in the image forming apparatus 1.

図２において、イメージングユニット２は、感光体側部材２００と、現像器側部材２１０とを備えている。   In FIG. 2, the imaging unit 2 includes a photosensitive member side member 200 and a developing device side member 210.

前記感光体側部材２００と現像器側部材２１０のうちの一方、例えば感光体側部材２００の下端部には、図４に示すように、軸方向（長さ方向）の一端部（この実施形態では長さ方向の奥側）において、感光体ドラムを支持する支持基体２０１Ａから軸方向内側に向かって突出する断面円形の枢軸２０３が形成されている。   One of the photosensitive member side member 200 and the developing device side member 210, for example, the lower end portion of the photosensitive member side member 200, as shown in FIG. 4, is one end portion in the axial direction (length direction) (long in this embodiment). A pivot 203 having a circular cross section that protrudes inward in the axial direction from the support base 201A that supports the photosensitive drum is formed on the back side in the vertical direction.

一方、現像器側部材２１０の下端部には、図５に示すように、軸方向（長さ方向）の一端部の前記枢軸２０３と対向する位置において、前記枢軸２０３と掛合される側面視下向きＵ字状の溝部からなる掛合部２１４が形成されている。前記掛合部２１４の幅方向の長さｗ（図６に示す）は枢軸２０３の外径とほぼ同じに設定され、上下方向の長さｈは枢軸２０３の外径よりも大きく設定されている。   On the other hand, at the lower end portion of the developing device side member 210, as shown in FIG. 5, in a position facing one end portion in the axial direction (length direction) of the pivot shaft 203, the developer unit side member 210 faces downward with respect to the pivot shaft 203. A hooking portion 214 made of a U-shaped groove is formed. The length w (shown in FIG. 6) of the engaging portion 214 in the width direction is set to be substantially the same as the outer diameter of the pivot 203, and the length h in the vertical direction is set to be larger than the outer diameter of the pivot 203.

これらの枢軸２０３及び掛合部２１４は、感光体側部材２００と現像器側部材２１０の軸方向の一端側にのみ形成され、他端側には形成されておらず、一端側においてのみ、感光体側部材２００の枢軸２０３と現像器側部材２１０の掛合部２１４が掛合されるものとなされている。これらの枢軸２０３及び掛合部２１４は、感光体側部材２００と現像器側部材２１０を回動可能に支持するための支承部２１６として機能すると共に、感光体側部材２００と現像器側部材２１０の接合状態においては、後述するように、現像器側部材２１０が現像ローラ中心に回動するのを規制する規制部材として機能する。   The pivot 203 and the engaging portion 214 are formed only on one end side in the axial direction of the photoconductor side member 200 and the developing device side member 210, and are not formed on the other end side, but only on one end side. The pivot 203 of 200 and the engaging part 214 of the developing device side member 210 are engaged. The pivot 203 and the engaging portion 214 function as a support portion 216 for rotatably supporting the photosensitive member side member 200 and the developing device side member 210, and the bonding state of the photosensitive member side member 200 and the developing device side member 210. , Functions as a regulating member that regulates the rotation of the developing device side member 210 about the developing roller, as will be described later.

そして、前記枢軸２０３と掛合部２１４が掛合された状態で、前記枢軸２０３を回動支点（回動中心）として現像器側部材２１０は、感光体側部材２００に対して垂直面内に沿って相対的に回動変移可能、かつ接離可能に接合されるようになっており、図２の回動変移位置では、感光体側部材２００にもたれかかる姿勢をとって接合状態となる。   Then, in a state where the pivot 203 is engaged with the engagement portion 214, the developing device side member 210 is relative to the photoreceptor side member 200 along the vertical plane with the pivot 203 as a rotation fulcrum (rotation center). Therefore, in the rotational displacement position of FIG. 2, the posture is leaned against the photosensitive member side member 200 to be in a joined state.

前記感光体側部材２００には、支持基体２０１Ａを介して感光体ドラム２０１が組み込まれており、前記支持基体２０１Ａにおける現像器側部材２１０に対向する端部（図２の右端部）には、感光体側部材２００の軸方向における両端部の位置に、それぞれ１個、合計２個のコロ受け部２０２が形成されている。なお、ここでいう感光体ドラム２０１とは、図１の感光体ドラム１１２Ｍ〜１１２Ｋと同等もしくはそれに付属品等を加えた概念である。   The photoconductor drum 201 is incorporated in the photoconductor side member 200 via a support base 201A, and the end of the support base 201A facing the developing device side member 210 (the right end in FIG. 2) is exposed to the photoconductor drum 201. A total of two roller receiving portions 202 are formed at the positions of both end portions in the axial direction of the body-side member 200. Here, the photosensitive drum 201 is a concept equivalent to or equivalent to the photosensitive drums 112M to 112K in FIG.

前記現像器側部材２１０は、図示しない現像ローラが組み込まれており、コロ２１１と、コロ２１１に下方に位置するアイドルギア２１２と、アイドルギア２１２の下方に位置する駆動入力用ギア２１３とを備えている。なお、ここでいう現像ローラとは、図１の現像器１１４Ｍ〜１１４Ｋと同等もしくはそれに付属品を加えた概念である。   The developing device side member 210 includes a developing roller (not shown), and includes a roller 211, an idle gear 212 positioned below the roller 211, and a drive input gear 213 positioned below the idle gear 212. ing. The developing roller here is the same as the developing units 114M to 114K in FIG.

前記コロ２１１は、感光体側部材２００と現像器側部材２１０の接合状態において感光体側部材２００の２個のコロ受け部２０２に対向する位置において、現像ローラの回転軸５１０に取り付けられており、現像ローラの軸まわりに回転可能に支持されている。従って、前記コロ２１１は、現像器側部材２１０の軸方向の両端部にそれぞれ１個ずつ合計２個存在している。   The roller 211 is attached to the rotating shaft 510 of the developing roller at a position facing the two roller receiving portions 202 of the photosensitive member side member 200 when the photosensitive member side member 200 and the developing device side member 210 are joined. It is rotatably supported around the roller axis. Accordingly, there are two rollers 211 in total, one at each end of the developing device side member 210 in the axial direction.

これらのコロ２１１とコロ受け部２０２とは、感光体側部材２００と現像器側部材２１０の接合状態において両部材を位置決めするための位置決め部材として機能し、位置決めされた状態では、後述するように、感光体側部材２００の感光体ドラム２０１と現像器側部材２１０の現像ローラとの間に適正な隙間が形成されるものとなされている。   These rollers 211 and the roller receiving portion 202 function as positioning members for positioning both members in the joined state of the photosensitive member side member 200 and the developing device side member 210. In the positioned state, as described later, An appropriate gap is formed between the photosensitive drum 201 of the photosensitive member side member 200 and the developing roller of the developing device side member 210.

前記駆動入力ギア２１３は、外力により回転駆動されることによって、前記アイドルギア２１２を回転駆動し、アイドルギア２１２は、現像ローラを回転駆動するようになっている。   The drive input gear 213 is rotationally driven by an external force to rotationally drive the idle gear 212. The idle gear 212 rotationally drives the developing roller.

前記コロ受け部２０２は、前記支持基体２０１Ａにおけるコロ２１１との対向部に、側面視Ｕ字形に形成された溝部として構成されており、その下側開口端部は、前記コロ２１１がコロ受け部２０２に進入する際のコロ進入ガイド壁部２０２ａとして構成されている。   The roller receiving portion 202 is configured as a groove portion formed in a U shape in a side view at a portion facing the roller 211 in the support base 201A, and the lower opening end portion of the roller receiving portion 202 is the roller receiving portion. It is configured as a roller entry guide wall 202a when entering the 202.

前記コロ受け部２０２の上側および下側の各内面には、それぞれ図７および図８に示すように、コロ当て面４０１ならびに前記コロ当て面４０１に対向する対向面４０２とが形成されている。   As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, a roller contact surface 401 and a facing surface 402 facing the roller contact surface 401 are formed on the inner surfaces of the roller receiving portion 202 on the upper side and the lower side, respectively.

コロ当て面４０１と対向面４０２との距離は、前記コロ受け部２０２の入り口から奥に至るにつれて漸次小さくなり、コロ２１１に対してコロ当て面４０１と対向面４０２にとによる挟着力が増すよう設定されている。   The distance between the roller contact surface 401 and the opposing surface 402 gradually decreases from the entrance to the back of the roller receiving portion 202 so that the clamping force by the roller contact surface 401 and the opposing surface 402 increases with respect to the roller 211. Is set.

前記コロ当て面４０１は、感光体ドラム２０１の軸を中心とする仮想円上に位置する円弧凸面からなり、コロ２１１がコロ当て面４０１に当接することによって、感光体ドラム２０１と現像ローラとの間の隙間が適正に保たれるように設定されている。   The roller contact surface 401 is a circular arc convex surface located on a virtual circle centered on the axis of the photosensitive drum 201, and the roller 211 comes into contact with the roller contact surface 401, so that the photosensitive drum 201 and the developing roller are in contact with each other. It is set so that the gap between them is properly maintained.

また、コロ受け部２０２の下側面をなす対向面４０２は、感光体側部材２００と現像器側部材２１０との接合状態でコロ受け部２０２の奥に向かって下り勾配、つまり、奥に至るにつれて鉛直方向の高さが低くなるように傾斜して形成されている。このコロ受け面４０２の水平面に対する傾斜角は、例えば１５度に設定されている。   Further, the facing surface 402 that forms the lower surface of the roller receiving portion 202 is inclined downward toward the back of the roller receiving portion 202 in the joined state of the photosensitive member side member 200 and the developing device side member 210, that is, vertical as it reaches the back. It is formed to be inclined so that the height in the direction is low. The inclination angle of the roller receiving surface 402 with respect to the horizontal plane is set to 15 degrees, for example.

一方、前記現像器側部材２１０におけるコロ２１１は、例えば図８に示すように、軸芯回り（周方向）に分割された複数、例えば３つの円弧面部２１１Ａ、２１１Ｂ、２１１Ｃと、これら円弧面部２１１Ａ、２１１Ｂ、２１１Ｃを前記回転軸５１０に支承する円筒基部２１２とからなる。   On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 8, for example, the roller 211 in the developer-side member 210 has a plurality of, for example, three arcuate surface portions 211A, 211B, and 211C divided around the axis (circumferential direction), and these arcuate surface portions 211A. , 211B, 211C, and a cylindrical base 212 that supports the rotating shaft 510.

これら円弧面部２１１Ａ、２１１Ｂ、２１１Ｃは、互いに径Ｒａ、Ｒｂ、Ｒｃが異なる（Ｒａ＜Ｒｂ＜Ｒｃ）状態で前記円筒基部２１２の外周側に一体形成されている。   These arcuate surface portions 211A, 211B, and 211C are integrally formed on the outer peripheral side of the cylindrical base 212 in a state where the diameters Ra, Rb, and Rc are different from each other (Ra <Rb <Rc).

３つの円弧面部２１１Ａ、２１１Ｂ、２１１Ｃは、感光体ドラム２０１と現像ローラ間に形成すべき隙間に応じて前記コロ当て面４０１と接触させるものが選択されるようになっている。   The three arcuate surface portions 211A, 211B, and 211C are selected so as to come into contact with the roller contact surface 401 in accordance with a gap to be formed between the photosensitive drum 201 and the developing roller.

すなわち、前記コロ当て面４０１に対して３つの円弧面部２１１Ａ、２１１Ｂ、２１１Ｃのうちの何れかを選択することにより、感光体ドラム２０１と現像ローラの隙間が調整可能に構成されている。   In other words, the gap between the photosensitive drum 201 and the developing roller can be adjusted by selecting any one of the three circular arc surface portions 211A, 211B, and 211C with respect to the roller contact surface 401.

さらに、この実施形態では図３に示すように、現像器側部材２１０が枢軸２０３を回動支点として感光体側部材２００との接合方向に回動する際の掛合部２１４の軸中心（枢軸２０３の中心）から現像ローラ中心との距離Ｌ１と、感光体側部材２００のコロ受けにコロが当接されて現像器側部材２１０が感光体側部材２００に接合されたときの枢軸２０３の中心からコロ２１１の中心までの距離Ｌ２は、Ｌ１＜ Ｌ２の関係が成り立つように構成されている。   Further, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, the center of the engaging portion 214 when the developing device side member 210 is rotated in the joining direction with the photosensitive member side member 200 with the pivot 203 as a pivot point (of the pivot 203. The roller 211 from the center of the pivot 203 when the roller is brought into contact with the roller receiver of the photosensitive member side member 200 and the developing device side member 210 is joined to the photosensitive member side member 200. The distance L2 to the center is configured so that the relationship of L1 <L2 is established.

これによって、図２及び図６に示すように、現像器側部材２１０が感光体側部材２００に接合され一体となったとき、現像器側部材２１０が上方にわずかに変移して掛合部２１４の上面湾曲部と枢軸２０３との間にわずかに隙間Ｓが生じる。この結果、現像器側部材２１０が左右方向に移動しようとしても、移動枢軸２０３が掛合部２１４の幅方向両側の平面２１４ａに当接して、現像器側部材２１０の左右方向の移動が規制され、かつ現像器側部材２１０が現像ローラ中心に回動するのが規制される。   As a result, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 6, when the developing device side member 210 is joined to and integrated with the photoconductor side member 200, the developing device side member 210 slightly shifts upward and the upper surface of the engaging portion 214. A slight gap S is generated between the curved portion and the pivot 203. As a result, even if the developing device side member 210 tries to move in the left-right direction, the moving pivot 203 comes into contact with the flat surfaces 214a on both sides in the width direction of the engaging portion 214, and the movement in the left-right direction of the developing device side member 210 is restricted. Further, the rotation of the developing device side member 210 about the developing roller is restricted.

つぎに、上記構成のイメージングユニット２おいて、感光体側部材２００の感光体ドラム２０１と現像器側部材２１０を組み立てる手順を説明する。   Next, a procedure for assembling the photosensitive drum 201 of the photosensitive member side member 200 and the developing device side member 210 in the imaging unit 2 having the above configuration will be described.

いま、図３に示すように、前記現像器側部材２１０を感光体側部材２００から分離した状態となっているとする。   Now, as shown in FIG. 3, it is assumed that the developing device side member 210 is separated from the photoconductor side member 200.

この分離状態から、前記現像器側部材２１０の掛合部２１４を感光体側部材２００の枢軸２０３に上方から引っ掛けるとともに、枢軸２０３を回動支点として現像器側部材２１０を反時計方向へ回動変移させれば、現像器側部材２１０におけるコロ２１１が感光体側部材２００におけるコロ進入ガイド壁部２０２ａで下方から支持されながらコロ受け部２０２内へガイドされる。この際、現像器側部材２１０の掛合部２１４及び感光体側部材２００の枢軸２０３は、現像器側部材２１０及び感光体側部材２００のそれぞれ一端部にのみ設けられているから、他端側はフリーとなり、このためユーザは掛合部２１４を枢軸２０３に引っ掛けて現像器側部材２１０を回動させる操作を円滑に行うことができ、極めて簡単に作業を行うことができる。   From this separated state, the engaging portion 214 of the developing device side member 210 is hooked on the pivot 203 of the photosensitive member side member 200 from above, and the developing device side member 210 is rotated and shifted in the counterclockwise direction with the pivot 203 as a rotation fulcrum. Then, the roller 211 in the developing device side member 210 is guided into the roller receiving portion 202 while being supported from below by the roller entry guide wall portion 202a in the photosensitive member side member 200. At this time, since the engaging portion 214 of the developing device side member 210 and the pivot 203 of the photosensitive member side member 200 are provided only at one end portions of the developing device side member 210 and the photosensitive member side member 200, the other end side becomes free. For this reason, the user can smoothly perform the operation of hooking the engaging portion 214 on the pivot 203 and rotating the developing device side member 210, and can perform the operation very easily.

そして、現像器側部材２１０をさらに反時計方向へ回動変移させれば、コロ２１１がコロ受け部２０２に進入して、前記感光体側部材２００に対して現像器側部材２１０が図２に示す接合位置に設定されることになる。   Then, if the developing device side member 210 is further rotated and rotated in the counterclockwise direction, the roller 211 enters the roller receiving portion 202, and the developing device side member 210 is shown in FIG. The joint position is set.

コロ２１１がコロ受け部２０２に進入すれば、図８に示すように、該コロ２１１における３つの円弧面部２１１Ａ、２１１Ｂ、２１１Ｃのうちの一つ、例えば最小径（Ｒａ）の円弧面部２１１Ａの外周面がコロ当て面４０１に接触し、別の円弧面部２１１Ｃの外周面が対向面４０２に接触する。   When the roller 211 enters the roller receiving portion 202, as shown in FIG. 8, one of the three arc surface portions 211A, 211B, 211C in the roller 211, for example, the outer periphery of the arc surface portion 211A having the minimum diameter (Ra) The surface contacts the roller contact surface 401, and the outer peripheral surface of another arcuate surface portion 211 </ b> C contacts the facing surface 402.

つまり、前記コロ２１１の円弧面部２１１Ａとコロ当て面４０１との接触点からコロ２１１の軸芯までの距離（円弧面部２１１Ａの径の長さ）で前記感光体側部材２００の感光体ドラム２０１と前記現像器側部材２１０の現像ローラとの隙間を調整することができる。   That is, the distance from the contact point between the arc surface portion 211A of the roller 211 and the roller contact surface 401 to the axial center of the roller 211 (the length of the diameter of the arc surface portion 211A) and the photosensitive drum 201 of the photoconductor side member 200 The gap between the developing device side member 210 and the developing roller can be adjusted.

前記感光体ドラム２０１と前記現像ローラとの隙間を最も小さく設定したい場合には、前記３つの円弧面部２１１Ａ、２１１Ｂ、２１１Ｃのうち、最も径の小さい円弧面部２１１Ａの外周面がコロ当て面４０１に当接するように、コロ２１１を回転変移しておけば良く、逆に、感光体ドラム２０１と前記現像ローラとの隙間を最も大きく設定したい場合には、前記３つの円弧面部２１１Ａ、２１１Ｂ、２１１Ｃのうち、最も径が大きい円弧面部２１１Ｃの外周が前記コロ受け面４０２に当接されるように、コロ２１１を回転変移しておけばよい。   When it is desired to set the gap between the photosensitive drum 201 and the developing roller to be the smallest, the outer peripheral surface of the arc surface portion 211A having the smallest diameter among the three arc surface portions 211A, 211B, 211C becomes the roller contact surface 401. The roller 211 only needs to be rotationally shifted so as to abut, and conversely, when it is desired to set the gap between the photosensitive drum 201 and the developing roller to be the largest, the three arcuate surfaces 211A, 211B, 211C Of these, the roller 211 may be rotationally shifted so that the outer periphery of the arc surface portion 211 </ b> C having the largest diameter is in contact with the roller receiving surface 402.

このような感光体側部材２００及び現像器側部材２１０の接合状態において、両部材２００、２１０は軸方向の両端２箇所の位置においてコロ受け部２０２とコロ２１１により固定支持され、軸方向の端部１箇所の位置において枢軸２０３と掛合部２１４との掛合により支持されており、これら感光体側部材２００と現像器側部材２１０は合計３箇所で接合状態が保持されるものとなる。このため、従来の４箇所支持の場合に較べて、経時的な寸法の狂いその他の理由によってイメージングユニットに発生する応力を、支持による拘束のなくなった１箇所において解放することができるから、イメージングユニット２の歪みを抑制でき、現像ローラと感光体ドラム２０１との隙間を長期に亘って高精度に維持することができる。   In such a joined state of the photosensitive member side member 200 and the developing device side member 210, the two members 200 and 210 are fixedly supported by the roller receiving portion 202 and the roller 211 at two positions on both ends in the axial direction, and end portions in the axial direction. The photosensitive member side member 200 and the developing device side member 210 are held in a combined state at a total of three locations by being supported by the pivot 203 and the engagement portion 214 at one position. For this reason, compared with the conventional four-point support, the stress generated in the imaging unit due to dimensional deviation over time and other reasons can be released at one place where the support is no longer restrained. 2 can be suppressed, and the gap between the developing roller and the photosensitive drum 201 can be maintained with high accuracy over a long period of time.

また、図２の接合状態の現像器側部材２１０を枢軸２０３を中心に時計方向へ回動変移させれば、前記コロ２１１がコロ受け部２０２内から後退するから、図３に示すように、現像器側部材２１０感光体側部材２００から分離した位置に容易に設定することができる。勿論、前記円弧面部２１１Ａ，２１１Ｂ，２１１Ｃの数は３つに限定されることなく、任意に増減可能である。   Further, if the developer-side member 210 in the joined state of FIG. 2 is rotated and shifted clockwise about the pivot 203, the roller 211 is retracted from the roller receiving portion 202. As shown in FIG. The developing device side member 210 can be easily set at a position separated from the photoconductor side member 200. Of course, the number of the arcuate surface portions 211A, 211B, 211C is not limited to three and can be arbitrarily increased or decreased.

このように、コロ２１１に、軸回りに等配して設けられた３つの円弧面部２１１Ａ，２１１Ｂ，２１１Ｃのいずれかを選択して、前記コロ受け部２０２のコロ当て面４０１に接触させるようにした簡単な構成により、感光体ドラム２０１と前記現像ローラとの隙間を調整できる。しかも、コロ当て面４０１に対して接触する円弧面部２１１Ａ，２１１Ｂ，２１１Ｃを選択できることから、前記隙間の高い精度での調整に容易に対応することができる。   In this way, any one of the three circular arc surface portions 211A, 211B, 211C provided on the roller 211 so as to be equally distributed around the axis is selected and brought into contact with the roller contact surface 401 of the roller receiving portion 202. With this simple configuration, the gap between the photosensitive drum 201 and the developing roller can be adjusted. In addition, since the arc surface portions 211A, 211B, and 211C that contact the roller contact surface 401 can be selected, it is possible to easily cope with the adjustment of the gap with high accuracy.

また、コロ当て面４０１にコロ２１１における一つの円弧面部２１１Ａが接触した際、コロ当て面４０１に略対向する面４０２にコロ２１１の別の円弧面部２１１Ｃが接触するので、現像器側部材２１０と感光体側部材２００との接合時にコロ２１１の受け状態が堅固になる。   In addition, when one arc surface portion 211A of the roller 211 comes into contact with the roller contact surface 401, another arc surface portion 211C of the roller 211 comes into contact with the surface 402 substantially opposite to the roller contact surface 401. The receiving state of the roller 211 becomes firm at the time of joining with the photoconductor side member 200.

さらにまた、前記コロ受け部２０２における対向面４０２がコロ受け部２０２の入り口から奥に至るにつれて、鉛直方向の高さが低くなるように傾斜して形成されているから、使用時においては、コロ２１１は、重力によってコロ受け面４０２上をコロ受け部２０２の入り口から奥側へ送り込む力を受ける。これによって、コロ２１１はコロ当て面４０１に押し当てられ、感光体ドラム２０１と現像ローラの隙間がより安定して確保される。   Furthermore, the opposing surface 402 of the roller receiving portion 202 is formed so as to be inclined so that the height in the vertical direction decreases from the entrance to the back of the roller receiving portion 202. 211 receives the force which feeds on the roller receiving surface 402 from the entrance of the roller receiving part 202 to the back side by gravity. As a result, the roller 211 is pressed against the roller contact surface 401, and the gap between the photosensitive drum 201 and the developing roller is more stably secured.

勿論、このコロ受け面４０２の傾斜角度は、１５°に限定されるものではなく、水平面に対する傾斜角度が０度より大きく９０度未満であれば、任意の角度に選択設定可能である。   Of course, the inclination angle of the roller receiving surface 402 is not limited to 15 °, and can be selected and set to any angle as long as the inclination angle with respect to the horizontal plane is greater than 0 degree and less than 90 degrees.

また、コロ２１１は、円弧面部２１１Ａ，２１１Ｂ，２１１Ｃを有しない断面円形のものであってもよいのは勿論である。   Needless to say, the roller 211 may have a circular cross section without the arcuate surface portions 211A, 211B, and 211C.

なお、イメージングユニットにさらに剛性が必要な場合、イメージングユニットに歪みを生じさせない為に、現像器側部材２１０と感光体側部材２００を接合一体化した後、例えば図９に示すように、別部材を使用して両者を固定する構成を採用しても良い。   If the imaging unit needs to be more rigid, in order not to cause distortion in the imaging unit, after the developer-side member 210 and the photoreceptor-side member 200 are joined and integrated, for example, as shown in FIG. You may employ | adopt the structure which uses and fixes both.

図９において、符号５０１は、一体化された現像器側部材２１０と感光体側部材２００を固定するための固定部材であり、現像器側部材２１０に備えられた支点部５０２を中心に矢印Ｚ方向に回転可能となされている。   In FIG. 9, reference numeral 501 denotes a fixing member for fixing the integrated developer side member 210 and the photosensitive member side member 200, and an arrow Z direction centering on a fulcrum portion 502 provided on the developer side member 210. Can be rotated.

感光体側部材２００には固定部５０３が設けられており、固定部材５０１の支点部５０２と反対側の端部を前記固定部材５０３に図示しないねじなどを用いて連結固定することによって、現像器側部材２１０と感光体側部材２００の軸方向（図９の矢印Ｙ方向）の位置と回転方向（矢印Ｚ方向）の位置が固定される。   The photosensitive member side member 200 is provided with a fixing portion 503, and the end of the fixing member 501 opposite to the fulcrum portion 502 is connected and fixed to the fixing member 503 with a screw or the like (not shown), thereby developing side. The positions of the member 210 and the photosensitive member side member 200 in the axial direction (arrow Y direction in FIG. 9) and the rotation direction (arrow Z direction) are fixed.

なお、固定部材５０１を現像器側部材２１０に、固定部５０３を感光体側部材２００にそれぞれ設ける構成としたが、感光体側部材２００に固定部材５０１を、現像器側部材２１０に固定部５０３を設けた構成としても良い。   Although the fixing member 501 is provided on the developing device side member 210 and the fixing portion 503 is provided on the photosensitive member side member 200, the fixing member 501 is provided on the photosensitive member side member 200, and the fixing portion 503 is provided on the developing device side member 210. It is good also as a composition.

このように、現像器側部材２１０と感光体側部材２００を固定部材５０１で連結固定することによって、イメージングユニットの全体の歪みの発生をさらに抑制することができ、剛性を上げることができる。   In this way, by connecting and fixing the developing device side member 210 and the photosensitive member side member 200 with the fixing member 501, it is possible to further suppress the occurrence of distortion of the entire imaging unit and increase the rigidity.

以上、本発明の一実施形態を説明したが、本発明は上記実施形態に限定されることはない。   Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment.

例えば、上記実施形態においては、専らイメージングユニット２が画像形成装置１から着脱可能である場合について説明したが、これに限定されるものではなく、イメージングユニット２が画像形成装置１から着脱不能のものであってもよい。   For example, in the above-described embodiment, the case where the imaging unit 2 is detachable from the image forming apparatus 1 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the imaging unit 2 is detachable from the image forming apparatus 1. It may be.

また、この実施の形態においては、感光体側部材２００に対して現像器側部材２１０が回動変移するように構成したが、回動変移する側が上記とは逆であってもよく、コロ２１１を感光体側部材２００に設け、コロ受け部２０２を現像器側部材２１０に設ける構成も可能である。また、感光体側部材２００に枢軸２０３が現像器側部材２１０に掛合部２１４が設けられた構成としたが、感光体側部材２００に掛合部２１４が現像器側部材２１０に枢軸２０３が設けられた構成としてもよい。   In this embodiment, the developing device side member 210 is configured to rotate and change with respect to the photoconductor side member 200. However, the rotating and changing side may be opposite to the above. A configuration in which the roller receiving portion 202 is provided on the developing device side member 210 is also possible. In addition, the photoconductor side member 200 has the pivot 203 provided with the engaging portion 214 on the developing device side member 210, but the photo conductor side member 200 has the engaging portion 214 provided with the pivot 203 on the developing device side member 210. It is good.

また、感光体側部材２００の枢軸２０３と現像器側部材２１０の掛合部２１４が各部材の軸方向（長さ方向）の一端部に設けられた場合を示したが、軸方向のいずれの位置に設けられていても良い。   Further, the case where the pivot 203 of the photosensitive member side member 200 and the engaging portion 214 of the developing device side member 210 are provided at one end portion in the axial direction (length direction) of each member is shown, but at any position in the axial direction. It may be provided.

また、上記実施形態では、コロ受け部２０２のコロ当て面４０１と対向面４０２のうち対向面４０２を下側としてコロ２１１はこの対向面４０２の傾斜によって奥側に送り込まれるようにしたが、コロ当て面４０１を下側にしてコロ２１１がコロ当て面４０１に設けられた傾斜によって奥側に送り込まれるようにしてもよい。   Further, in the above embodiment, the roller 211 is sent to the back side by the inclination of the facing surface 402 with the facing surface 402 of the roller receiving surface 401 and the facing surface 402 of the roller receiving portion 202 as the lower side. The roller 211 may be sent to the back side by the inclination provided on the roller contact surface 401 with the contact surface 401 facing down.

また、上記実施形態では、コロ受け部２０２に対してコロ２１１がほぼ上側から挿入されるように構成したが、逆にコロに対してコロ受け部が上方から被さるように載ることでコロ受け部にコロが挿入されるように構成してもよい。また、コロを設けることなく現像ローラまたは感光体ドラムの軸部をコロ受け部に進入させることにより接合しても良い。   Moreover, in the said embodiment, although comprised so that the roller 211 might be inserted from the upper side with respect to the roller receiving part 202, conversely, a roller receiving part is mounted | worn so that a roller receiving part may cover with respect to a roller from upper direction. You may comprise so that a roller may be inserted in. Further, the developing roller or the photosensitive drum may be joined by entering the roller receiving portion without providing a roller.

この発明の実施形態に係る画像形成装置を示す概略構成図である。1 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. 図１の画像形成装置において、イメージングユニットを感光体側部材と現像器側部材の接合状態で示し、かつ感光体側部材の枢軸が取り付けられた基部を除去した状態で示す側面図である。FIG. 2 is a side view showing the imaging unit in a joined state of a photosensitive member side member and a developing device side member in the image forming apparatus of FIG. 1 and a state where a base portion to which a pivot of the photosensitive member side member is attached is removed. 同じくイメージングユニットを感光体側部材と現像器側部材の分離状態で示し、かつ感光体側部材の枢軸が取り付けられた基部を除去した状態で示す側面図である。FIG. 6 is a side view showing the imaging unit in a state where the photosensitive member side member and the developing device side member are separated, and with the base portion to which the pivot of the photosensitive member side member is attached removed. 同じく感光体側部材の端部の斜視図である。It is a perspective view of the edge part of a photoreceptor side member similarly. 同じく現像器側部材の端部の斜視図である。It is a perspective view of the edge part of a developing device side member similarly. 同じく感光体側部材と現像器側部材の接合状態における枢軸と掛合部の掛合状態を示す図である。FIG. 6 is a view showing a state in which the pivot and the engaging portion are engaged in a state where the photosensitive member side member and the developing device side member are joined together. 同じく感光体側部材におけるコロ受け部を示す側面図である。It is a side view which similarly shows the roller receiving part in a photoreceptor side member. 同じく感光体側部材におけるコロ受け部に現像器側部材のコロが進入した状態を示す側面図である。FIG. 6 is a side view showing a state in which the roller of the developing device side member enters the roller receiving portion of the photoconductor side member. 同じく感光体側部材と現像器側部材を接合した状態で、固定部材二より連結固定する状態を示す斜視図である。FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a state in which the photosensitive member side member and the developing device side member are joined and fixed by the fixing member 2 in the same manner. 従来のイメージングユニットを、感光体側部材と現像器側部材の接合状態で示す側面図である。It is a side view which shows the conventional imaging unit in the joining state of the photoreceptor side member and the developing device side member. 従来のイメージングユニットを、感光体側部材と現像器側部材の分離状態で示す側面図である。It is a side view which shows the conventional imaging unit in the separation state of the photoreceptor side member and the developing device side member. 従来のイメージングユニットの接合状態の説明図である。It is explanatory drawing of the joining state of the conventional imaging unit.

符号の説明Explanation of symbols

２００・・・感光体側部材
２０１・・・感光体ドラム
２０２・・・コロ受け部
２０３・・・枢軸
２１０・・・現像器側部材
２１１・・・コロ
２１１Ａ，２１１Ｂ，２１１Ｃ・・・コロの円弧面部
２１４・・・掛合部
２１６・・・支承部
４０１・・・コロ当て面
４０２・・・対向面（傾斜面）
５１０・・・コロの軸
Ｒａ，Ｒｂ，Ｒｃ・・・円弧面部の径 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 200 ... Photosensitive member side member 201 ... Photosensitive drum 202 ... Roller receiving part 203 ... Pivoting shaft 210 ... Developer side member 211 ... Roller 211A, 211B, 211C ... Arc of roller Surface part 214 ... Hooking part 216 ... Bearing part 401 ... Roller contact surface 402 ... Opposing surface (inclined surface)
510: Roller axis Ra, Rb, Rc: Diameter of the arcuate surface

Claims (3)

感光体ドラムが組み込まれた感光体側部材と現像ローラが組み込まれた現像器側部材とが接離可能に配設された画像形成装置において、
前記感光体側部材及び現像器側部材には、両部材の軸方向の１箇所において両部材を接離方向に回動可能に支承する支承部が形成されると共に、両部材の軸方向の２箇所の位置において、両部材を位置決め固定する位置決め部が形成され、
前記感光体側部材及び現像器側部材が、前記２箇所の位置決め部と１箇所の支承部の３箇所で接合状態が保持されるものとなされていることを特徴とする画像形成装置。 In the image forming apparatus in which the photosensitive member side member in which the photosensitive drum is incorporated and the developing device side member in which the developing roller is incorporated are detachably arranged.
The photosensitive member-side member and the developing device-side member are formed with support portions for supporting both members so as to be rotatable in the contact / separation direction at one place in the axial direction of both members, and at two places in the axial direction of both members. In the position, a positioning portion for positioning and fixing both members is formed,
An image forming apparatus, wherein the photosensitive member side member and the developing device side member are held in a joined state at three locations, the two positioning portions and the one support portion. 前記支承部は、感光体側部材及び現像器側部材の一方に設けられた枢軸と、他方に設けられ前記枢軸に掛合される掛合部とからなり、
前記枢軸は、感光体側部材及び現像器側部材との組み付け時に、前記枢軸に掛合部を掛合させた状態で、感光体側部材及び現像器側部材の少なくとも一方を、両部材が前記位置決め部材により位置決めされる位置まで回動させる際の回動支点として作用する請求項１に記載の画像形成装置。 The support portion includes a pivot provided on one of the photosensitive member side member and the developing device side member, and a hook portion provided on the other and hooked to the pivot shaft.
When the pivot shaft is assembled with the photosensitive member side member and the developing device side member, at least one of the photosensitive member side member and the developing device side member is positioned by the positioning member in a state where the engaging portion is engaged with the pivot shaft. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus acts as a rotation fulcrum when the rotation is performed. 前記感光体側部材と現像器側部材のうちのいずれか一方には、他方の軸部または他方に設けられた位置決め用のコロを進退可能に受け入れるコロ受け部が設けられており、このコロ受け部と該コロ受け部に受け入れられる前記軸部またはコロとにより、前記位置決め部が形成されており、前記コロ受け部は、感光体ドラムと同心円状のコロ当て面と該コロ当て面に対向する対向面を有している請求項１または２に記載の画像形成装置。   Either one of the photosensitive member side member and the developing device side member is provided with a roller receiving portion that receives a positioning roller provided on the other shaft portion or the other in a movable manner. The positioning portion is formed by the shaft portion or the roller received by the roller receiving portion, and the roller receiving portion is concentric with the photosensitive drum and is opposed to the roller contact surface. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus has a surface.
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