JP6661945B2 - Developing cartridge and drum cartridge - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a developing cartridge and a drum cartridge.

  Conventionally, a developing cartridge that can be mounted on a drum cartridge is known. The drum cartridge is, for example, a cartridge having a photosensitive drum (for example, see Patent Document 1 below).

  The developing cartridge has a rib on a side surface of the developing cartridge. When the developing cartridge is mounted on the drum cartridge, the rib is pressed by a swing arm provided on the drum cartridge. As a result, the developing roller of the developing cartridge is pressed against the photosensitive drum of the drum cartridge.

JP 2013-50493 A

  In a conventional developing cartridge, a coupling, an idle gear, and an agitator gear are provided on a side surface of the developing cartridge. For this reason, when a projection such as a rib is to be arranged at a position closer to the developing roller than the position in the related art, it may hit one of the above-mentioned gears and hinder the rotation of the gear.

  Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a developing cartridge in which a gear on a side surface of the developing cartridge is rotatable even when a protrusion such as a rib is arranged at a position close to the developing roller, and to mount such a developing cartridge. It is to provide a possible drum cartridge.

(1) In order to achieve the above object, a developing cartridge of the present invention is provided with a housing capable of storing toner, a developing roller extending in a first direction, and connected to the developing roller and rotatable with the developing roller. A developing roller gear, a developing roller gear located on an outer surface of the housing, and a coupling rotatable about a first shaft extending in a first direction, the coupling being located on the outer surface, meshing with the developing roller gear, and a coupling. A first idle gear meshing with the coupling gear and rotatable about a second shaft extending in the first direction, the first idle gear being located on an outer surface of the housing. An idle gear, rotatable about the second axis together with the first idle gear, located on the outer surface, and further away from the outer surface than the first idle gear; A second idle gear, the diameter of the second idle gear being smaller than the diameter of the first idle gear, connected to the second idle gear located on the outer surface, the agitator extending in the first direction, and the agitator. An agitator gear that is rotatable with the agitator about a third shaft extending in the first direction, the agitator gear being located on an outer surface and meshing with the second idle gear, and a first protrusion extending in the first direction. A first protrusion located between the first axis and the third axis in a direction connecting the first axis and the third axis, and located on an outer surface of the first projection; A first protrusion located outside the addendum circle of the coupling gear, the addendum circle of the first idle gear, and the addendum circle of the second idle gear; and a first protrusion extending in the first direction and located on the outer surface. The second projection, which is opposed to the first projection. And a second protrusion located on the side opposite to the developing roller, the addendum circle of the developing roller gear, the addendum circle of the coupling gear, the addendum circle of the first idle gear, and the addendum circle of the second idle gear. A second projection located outside of the addendum circle. The agitator gear is spaced apart from the first projection and the second projection in the first direction.

According to such a configuration, the first protrusion is disposed at a position close to the developing roller (specifically, between the first shaft and the third shaft), and the second protrusion is positioned with respect to the first protrusion. Thus, the coupling, the idle gear, and the agitator gear can be rotated even if the coupling roller, the idle gear, and the agitator gear are arranged on the side opposite to the developing roller.
(2) In the developing cartridge of the present invention, when the developing cartridge is mounted on a drum cartridge having a specific specification corresponding to the developing cartridge, the first protrusion is moved from a pressing member of the drum cartridge having the specific specification to a specific specification. May be applied to the photosensitive drum of the drum cartridge having the first pressing force.
(3) In the developing cartridge of the present invention, when the developing cartridge is mounted on a drum cartridge having a specification different from the specific specification, the first projecting portion may be a pressing member of the drum cartridge having the different specification. A second pressing force smaller than the first pressing force toward the photosensitive drum may be received or no pressing force may be received.
(4) In the developing cartridge of the present invention, when the developing cartridge is mounted on a drum cartridge having a specific specification, the second protrusion does not have to come into contact with the drum cartridge having a specific specification.
(5) When the developing cartridge of the present invention is mounted on a drum cartridge having a different specification, the second projection abuts on the drum cartridge having a different specification, and the developing cartridge is mounted on the drum cartridge having a different specification. May be regulated.
(6) A drum cartridge according to the present invention includes a photosensitive drum extending in a first direction, a first end, and a second end spaced apart from the first end in a second direction different from the first direction. A frame on which the photosensitive drum is located at the first end and the developing cartridge can be mounted; and a first projection of the developing cartridge located between the photosensitive drum and the second end in the second direction. And a pressing member that can press the first member toward the photosensitive drum, and one or more protrusions located between the pressing member and the second end in the second direction.
(7) In the drum cartridge of the present invention, when the developing cartridge having the specific specification corresponding to the drum cartridge is mounted, the pressing member moves the first protrusion of the developing cartridge having the specific specification to the photosensitive drum. It may be pressed with the first pressing force.
(8) In the drum cartridge of the present invention, when a developing cartridge having a specification different from the specific specification is mounted, the pressing member causes the first protrusion of the developing cartridge having the different specification to face the photosensitive drum. The second pressing force smaller than the pressing force may be used, or the pressing force may not be used.
(9) In the drum cartridge of the present invention, when a developing cartridge having a specific specification is mounted, one or more protrusions do not have to contact the second protrusion of the developing cartridge having the specific specification. .
(10) In the drum cartridge of the present invention, when a developing cartridge having a different specification is mounted, one of the one or more protrusions comes into contact with a second protrusion of the developing cartridge having a different specification, and thus the different specification. May be restricted from being mounted.
(11) A drum cartridge according to the present invention includes a photosensitive drum extending in a first direction, a first end, and a second end spaced apart from the first end in a second direction different from the first direction. A frame on which the photosensitive drum is located at the first end and the developing cartridge can be mounted; and a first projection of the developing cartridge located between the photosensitive drum and the second end in the second direction. And a pressing member capable of pressing the photosensitive member toward the photosensitive drum. The pressing member is configured to, when a developing cartridge having a specific specification corresponding to the drum cartridge is mounted on the drum cartridge, cause the first protrusion of the developing cartridge having the specific specification to face the photosensitive drum, and press the first protrusion toward the photosensitive drum. When a developing cartridge having a specification different from the specific specification is mounted on the drum cartridge by pressing with a pressing force, the first projection of the developing cartridge having the different specification is directed toward the photosensitive drum, and a first pressing force is applied. Pressing is performed with a second pressing force smaller than that, or no pressing is performed.

  In the developing cartridge of the present invention, even if the first protrusion is arranged at a position close to the developing roller and the second protrusion is arranged on the side opposite to the developing roller with respect to the first protrusion, the cup may be used. The ring, idle gear and agitator gear can be rotated.

  Further, in the drum cartridge of the present invention, the developing cartridge having the first protrusion and the second protrusion can be properly mounted.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the developing cartridge of the first specification. In FIG. 1, the gear cover is omitted. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the developing cartridge shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the developing cartridge shown in FIG. 1, which is a cross-sectional view passing through an agitator gear. FIG. 4 is a sectional view taken along line AA of the developing cartridge shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of one end of the developing cartridge shown in FIG. 4 in the first direction. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the drum cartridge of the first specification. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state in which the developing cartridge of the first specification is mounted on the drum cartridge of the first specification. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the developing cartridge of the second specification is mounted on the drum cartridge of the second specification. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a developer cartridge of the third specification is mounted on a drum cartridge of the third specification. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the developer cartridge of the fourth specification is mounted on the drum cartridge of the fourth specification. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the developing cartridge of the fifth specification is mounted on the drum cartridge of the fifth specification. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the developer cartridge of the sixth specification is mounted on the drum cartridge of the sixth specification. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the developing cartridge of the first specification is inserted into the drum cartridge of the second specification. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing a state where the developing cartridge of the first specification is inserted into the drum cartridge of the fourth specification. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the developing cartridge of the fourth specification is mounted on the drum cartridge of the first specification.

1. Developing cartridge 1A
With reference to FIG. 1, the developing cartridge 1A of the first specification will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the developing cartridge 1 </ b> A includes a casing 2, a developing roller 3, a layer thickness regulating blade 6 for regulating the thickness of toner carried on the surface of the developing roller 3, and a developing roller 3. A bearing 7 for rotatably supporting the shaft 3B and a gear train 8 are provided.

  In the following description, the direction in which the developing roller 3 extends is the first direction. In the first direction, the side on which the gear train 8 is provided is one side of the first direction, and the side opposite to the side on which the gear train 8 is provided is the other side of the first direction.

The housing 2 extends in a first direction. The housing 2 is configured to be able to store toner inside. The housing 2 has a hollow rectangular tube shape. The housing 2 includes an outer surface 2A located on one side in the first direction and an outer surface 2B located on the other side in the first direction.
1.1 Developing roller 3
The developing roller 3 extends in the first direction. The developing roller 3 includes a roller 3A and a shaft 3B.

  The roller 3A extends in the first direction. The roller 3A has a cylindrical shape. The roller 3A is made of, for example, rubber having conductivity. The roller 3A is located between the outer surface 2A and the outer surface 2B of the housing 2 in the first direction. Part of the peripheral surface of the roller 3 </ b> A is exposed outside the housing 2.

The shaft 3B extends in the first direction. The shaft 3B has a cylindrical shape. The shaft 3B is made of metal. The shaft 3B is longer than the roller 3A in the first direction. The shaft 3B penetrates the roller 3A in the first direction. The shaft 3B penetrates the outer surface 2A in the first direction. The end 3C of the shaft 3B penetrating the outer surface 2A is located outside the outer surface 2A. The end 3C of the shaft 3B penetrating the outer surface 2A is rotatably supported by a bearing 7 attached to the outer surface 2A. Thereby, the developing roller 3 is rotatable about the central axis A4 of the shaft 3B.
1.2 Supply Roller The developing cartridge 1A further includes a supply roller for supplying toner to the developing roller 3 in the housing 2. The supply roller includes a shaft 4 rotatable with the supply roller.

The shaft 4 extends in a first direction. The shaft 4 has a cylindrical shape. The shaft 3B is made of metal. The shaft 4 penetrates the outer surface 2A in the first direction. The shaft 4 penetrating the outer surface 2A is located outside the outer surface 2A. The shaft 4 penetrating the outer surface 2A is rotatably supported by a bearing 7 attached to the outer surface 2A. Thereby, the supply roller is rotatable about the central axis of the shaft 4.
1.3 Agitator 5
The developing cartridge 1A further includes an agitator 5, as shown in FIG. The agitator 5 is provided inside the housing 2. The agitator 5 extends in the first direction. The agitator 5 includes a shaft 5A and blades 5B for stirring the toner in the housing 2.

The shaft 5A extends in the first direction. The shaft 5A has a cylindrical shape. The shaft 5A penetrates the outer surface 2A of the housing 2 in the first direction. The end 5C of the shaft 5A penetrating the outer surface 2A is located outside the housing 2. The agitator 5 is rotatable about the central axis of the shaft 5A. The central axis of the shaft 5A is the third axis A3.
1.4 Gear train 8
As shown in FIG. 1, the gear train 8 is located on one side of the housing 2 in the first direction. Specifically, the gear train 8 is located on the outer surface 2 </ b> A of the housing 2.
2. Details of Gear Train 8 Details of the gear train 8 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3.

The gear train 8 is rotatable with the coupling 11, the developing roller gear 12, and the supply roller shaft 4, and includes a supply roller gear 13, which meshes with the coupling gear 11B, an idle gear 14, and an agitator gear 15.
2.1 Coupling 11
The coupling 11 is located on one of the outer surfaces 2A in the first direction. The coupling 11 is located on the opposite side of the outer surface 2B with respect to the outer surface 2A in the first direction. The coupling 11 has a cylindrical shape. The coupling 11 extends in a first direction. The coupling 11 is attached to a shaft 16 provided on the bearing 7. The shaft 16 is located between the shaft 3B of the developing roller 3 and the shaft 17 to which the idle gear 14 is attached in a direction orthogonal to the first direction. The shaft 16 extends from one surface of the bearing 7 to one in the first direction. The shaft 16 has a cylindrical shape. The coupling 11 is rotatable about a central axis of the shaft 16. The central axis of the shaft 16 is the first axis A1. The first axis A1 extends in a first direction. The coupling 11 is located on the outer surface 2A of the housing 2 via the bearing 7 by being attached to the shaft 16. The coupling 11 includes a joint 11A and a coupling gear 11B.
2.1.1 Joint 11A
The joint 11A is configured to receive a driving force from outside the developing cartridge 1A. The joint 11A is located at one end of the coupling 11 in the first direction. The joint 11A is located on the opposite side of the outer surface 2A with respect to the coupling gear 11B in the first direction. The joint 11A has a space 11C that is recessed from one end of the coupling 11 to the other in the first direction. In other words, the space 11C is depressed inward from the outer surface of the coupling 11 in the first direction. The space 11C has a circular shape when viewed in the first direction. The joint 11A has two contact portions 11D in the space 11C. The two contact portions 11D are spaced apart from each other in the radial direction of the space 11C. The two contact portions 11D can be engaged with a drive input unit of the image forming apparatus when, for example, an image forming apparatus described later includes a drive input unit that inputs a drive to the joint 11A. The two contact portions 11D can receive a driving force from the drive input unit of the image forming apparatus by engaging with the drive input unit of the image forming apparatus. The coupling 11 rotates about the first axis A1 when the two contact portions 11D engage with the drive input portion of the image forming apparatus and receive a driving force.
2.1.2 Coupling gear 11B
The coupling gear 11B is located between the outer surface 2A and the joint 11A in the first direction. The coupling gear 11B is located on the other side of the joint 11A in the first direction. The coupling gear 11B is integrally formed with the joint 11A. Thereby, the coupling gear 11B can rotate together with the coupling 11. The coupling gear 11B has a plurality of gear teeth. The plurality of gear teeth are provided on the peripheral surface of the coupling gear 11B.
2.2 Developing roller gear 12
The developing roller gear 12 is located on one of the outer surfaces 2A in the first direction. The developing roller gear 12 is located on the side opposite to the outer surface 2B with respect to the outer surface 2A in the first direction. The developing roller gear 12 is located on one side of the bearing 7 in the first direction. The developing roller gear 12 is located on the opposite side of the outer surface 2A with respect to the bearing 7 in the first direction. The developing roller gear 12 meshes with the coupling gear 11B of the coupling 11. The developing roller gear 12 has a disk shape. The developing roller gear 12 has a thickness in the first direction. The developing roller gear 12 has a plurality of gear teeth. The plurality of gear teeth are provided on a peripheral surface of the developing roller gear 12. The developing roller gear 12 has a through hole 12 </ b> A at the center in the radial direction of the developing roller gear 12. By inserting the end 3C of the shaft 3B of the developing roller 3 penetrating the bearing 6 into the through hole 12A, the developing roller gear 12 is attached to the end 3C of the shaft 3B of the developing roller 3. Thus, the developing roller gear 12 is connected to the shaft 3B of the developing roller 3. The developing roller gear 12 is located on the outer surface 2A of the housing 2 via the end 3C of the shaft 3B of the developing roller 3. The end 3C of the shaft 3B has a D shape when viewed in the first direction. In other words, the end 3C of the shaft 3B has an arc surface 3D that is arc-shaped when viewed in the first direction, and a plane 3E that is linear when viewed in the first direction. The arc surface 3D and the plane 3E extend in the first direction. The through hole 12A has a D shape when viewed in the first direction. In other words, the inner surface of the through hole 12A has an arcuate surface 12B that is arcuate when viewed in the first direction, and a plane 12C that is linear when viewed in the first direction. The arc surface 12B of the through hole 12A faces the arc surface 3D of the shaft 3B of the developing roller 3. The plane 12C of the through hole 12A faces the plane 3E of the shaft 3B of the developing roller 3. As a result, the developing roller gear 12 becomes rotatable together with the shaft 3B of the developing roller 3.
2.3 Idle gear 14
The idle gear 14 is located on one of the outer surfaces 2A in the first direction. The idle gear 14 is located on the opposite side of the outer surface 2B with respect to the outer surface 2A in the first direction. The idle gear 14 is attached to a shaft 17 provided on the outer surface 2A. The shaft 17 is located on a side opposite to the shaft 3B of the developing roller 3 with respect to the shaft 16 to which the coupling 11 is attached in a direction orthogonal to the first direction. The shaft 17 extends outward from the outer surface 2A. The shaft 17 has a cylindrical shape. The idle gear 14 is rotatable about a central axis of the shaft 17. The central axis of the shaft 17 is the second axis A2. The second axis A2 extends in the first direction. The idle gear 14 is located on the outer surface 2 </ b> A of the housing 2 by being attached to the shaft 17. The idle gear 14 includes a first idle gear 14A and a second idle gear 14B.
2.3.1 First idle gear 14A
The first idle gear 14A is located between the outer surface 2A and the second idle gear 14B in the first direction. The first idle gear 14A has a disk shape. The first idle gear 14A has a thickness in the first direction. The first idle gear 14A has a plurality of gear teeth. The plurality of gear teeth are provided on the peripheral surface of the first idle gear 14A. The first idle gear 14A meshes with the coupling gear 11B of the coupling 11.
2.3.2 Second idle gear 14B
The second idle gear 14B is located on the opposite side of the outer surface 2A with respect to the first idle gear 14A in the first direction. That is, the second idle gear 14B is farther from the outer surface 2A than the first idle gear 14A in the first direction. The second idle gear 14B extends outward from the outer surface of the first idle gear 14A in the first direction. The second idle gear 14B has a cylindrical shape. The second idle gear 14B has a smaller diameter than the diameter of the first idle gear 14A. The second idle gear 14B has a plurality of gear teeth. The plurality of gear teeth are provided on the peripheral surface of the second idle gear 14B. The second idle gear 14B is configured integrally with the first idle gear 14A. Thus, the second idle gear 14B is located on the outer surface 2A together with the first idle gear 14A, and is rotatable about the second shaft A2 together with the first idle gear 14A.
2.3 Agitator gear 15
The agitator gear 15 is located on one of the outer surfaces 2A in the first direction. The agitator gear 15 is located on the side opposite to the outer surface 2B with respect to the outer surface 2A in the first direction. The agitator gear 15 is attached to the end 5C of the shaft 5A of the agitator 5. The agitator gear 15 has a cylindrical portion 15A and a gear portion 15B.
2.3.1 Cylindrical part 15A
The cylindrical portion 15A is located between the outer surface 2A and the gear portion 15B in the first direction. The cylindrical portion 15A extends in the first direction. The cylindrical portion 15A has a through hole 15C. The through hole 15C is located at the center in the radial direction of the cylindrical portion 15A. The through hole 15C penetrates the cylindrical portion 15A in the first direction. By inserting the end 5C of the shaft 5A of the agitator 5 into the through hole 15C, the agitator gear 15 is attached to the end 5C of the shaft 5A of the agitator 5. The agitator gear 15 is located on the outer surface 2A of the housing 2 via the end 5C of the shaft 5A of the agitator 5. The end 5C of the shaft 5A has a D shape when viewed in the first direction. In other words, the end 5C of the shaft 5A has an arc surface 5D that is arc-shaped when viewed in the first direction, and a flat surface 5E that is linear when viewed in the first direction. The arc surface 5D and the plane 5E extend in the first direction. The through hole 15C has a D shape when viewed in the first direction. In other words, the inner surface of the through hole 15C has an arc surface 15D having an arc shape as viewed in the first direction, and a flat surface 15E having a linear shape as viewed in the first direction. The arc surface 15D of the through hole 15C faces the arc surface 5D of the shaft 5A of the agitator 5. The plane 15E of the through hole 15C faces the plane 5E of the shaft 5A of the agitator 5. As a result, the agitator gear 15 is connected to the shaft 5A of the agitator 5 and is rotatable together with the shaft 5A of the agitator 5.
2.3.2 Gear part 15B
The gear portion 15B is located on the opposite side of the outer surface 2A with respect to the cylindrical portion 15A in the first direction. The gear portion 15B has a disk shape. The gear portion 15B has a thickness in the first direction. The gear section 15B has a plurality of gear teeth. The plurality of gear teeth are provided on a peripheral surface of the gear portion 15B. The gear portion 15B has a larger diameter than the diameter of the cylindrical portion 15A. The gear portion 15B is formed integrally with the cylindrical portion 15A. Thereby, the gear part 15B is rotatable with the cylindrical part 15A. The gear portion 15B meshes with the second idle gear 14B of the idle gear 14.
3. First projection 20A and second projection 21A
The housing 2 further includes a first protrusion 20A and a second protrusion 21A, as shown in FIGS.
3.1 Position of First Projection 20A The position of the first projection 20A will be described with reference to FIGS.

  The first projection 20A is located on the outer surface 2A. The first projection 20A extends in the first direction. The first protrusion 20A is located on the opposite side of the shaft 17 with respect to an imaginary line L connecting the central axis A4 of the developing roller 3 and the third axis A3. The first projection 20A is located between the first axis A1 and the third axis A3 in a direction connecting the first axis A1 and the third axis A3. When viewed in the first direction, the first projection 20A includes a tip circle C1 of the developing roller gear 12, a tip circle C2 of the coupling gear 11B, a tip circle C3 of the first idle gear 14A, and a second idle The gear 14B is located outside the addendum circle C4. At least a portion of the first protrusion 20A is located inside the addendum circle C5 of the gear portion 15B of the agitator gear 15 when viewed in the first direction.

  The first protrusion 20A is located between the outer surface 2A and the gear portion 15B of the agitator gear 15 in the first direction. In other words, the gear portion 15B of the agitator gear 15 is farther from the outer surface 2A than the first protrusion 20A in the first direction. That is, the gear portion 15B of the agitator gear 15 is spaced apart from the first protrusion 20A in the first direction. Thus, even if the first protrusion 20A is located inside the addendum circle C5 of the gear portion 15B of the agitator gear 15 when viewed in the first direction, the rotation of the gear portion 15B of the agitator gear 15 is not hindered. .

Note that the first protrusion 20A is also provided on the outer surface 2B in the first direction. The first protrusion 20A of the outer surface 2B extends from the outer surface 2B to one side in the first direction. At least a portion of the first protrusion 20A of the outer surface 2B matches at least a portion of the first protrusion 20A of the outer surface 2A when viewed in the first direction.
3.2 Shape of First Projection 20A The position of the first projection 20A will be described with reference to FIG.

  The first projection 20A has a U-shape when viewed in the first direction. The first protrusion 20A has a shape capable of receiving a pressing force in a direction from the first protrusion 20A toward the developing roller 3. Specifically, the first protrusion 20A has a surface 22 for receiving a pressing force in a direction from the first protrusion 20A toward the developing roller 3. Surface 22 is a curved surface. The surface 22 receives a pressing force from the pressing member 35A toward the photosensitive drum 32 when the pressing member 35A of the drum cartridge 30A described later contacts the surface 22.

The first protrusion 20A of the outer surface 2B has a shape capable of receiving a pressing force from a pressing member 35B of a drum cartridge 30A described later, similarly to the first protrusion 20A of the outer surface 2A. It has a surface 22 for receiving a pressing force from the pressing member 35B of the cartridge 30A.
3.3 Position of Second Projection 21A The position of the first projection 20A will be described with reference to FIG.

The second protrusion 21A is located on the opposite side of the development roller 3 with respect to the first protrusion 20A. The second protrusion 21A is located on the outer surface 2A. The second protrusion 21A extends in the first direction. When viewed in the first direction, the second protrusion 21A includes a tip circle C1 of the developing roller gear 12, a tip circle C2 of the coupling gear 11B, a tip circle C3 of the first idle gear 14A, and a second idle The gear 14B is located outside the addendum circle C4. At least a portion of the second protrusion 21A is located inside the addendum circle C5 of the gear portion 15B of the agitator gear 15 when viewed in the first direction.
3.4 Shape of Second Protrusion 21A The shape of the second protrusion 21A will be described with reference to FIG.

  The second protrusion 21A has a prismatic shape. The second protrusion 21A is shorter than the first protrusion 20A in the first direction. That is, in the first direction, one end of the second protrusion 21A is located closer to the outer surface 2A than one end of the first protrusion 20A. As a result, the second protrusion 21A is spaced apart from the gear 15B of the agitator gear 15 in the first direction with a space larger than the space between the gear 15B and the first protrusion 20A. . That is, the gear portion 15B of the agitator gear 15 is spaced apart from the second protrusion 21A in the first direction.

  According to the developing cartridge 1A, as shown in FIG. 3, the first protrusion 20A is located on the outer surface 2A between the first axis A1 and the third axis A3, and is in contact with the tip circle C1 of the developing roller gear 12. , The tip circle C2 of the coupling gear 11B, the tip circle C3 of the first idle gear 14A, and the tip circle C4 of the second idle gear 14B. The second protrusion 21A is located on the outer surface 2A on the opposite side of the first protrusion 20A from the developing roller 3, and has a tip circle C1 of the development roller gear 12 and a tip circle of the coupling gear 11B. C2, the tip circle C3 of the first idle gear 14A, and the tip circle C4 of the second idle gear 14B.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the gear portion 15B of the agitator gear 15 is spaced apart from the first protrusion 20A and the second protrusion 21A in the first direction.

Therefore, the first projection 20A is disposed at a position close to the developing roller 3 (specifically, between the first axis A1 and the third axis A3), and the second projection 21A is positioned with respect to the first projection 20A. Thus, even if the coupling 11, the idle gear 14, and the agitator gear 15 can be rotated even if they are arranged on the side opposite to the developing roller 3.
4. Drum cartridge 30A
Hereinafter, the configuration of the drum cartridge 30A of the first specification will be described with reference to FIG.
4.1 Outline of Drum Cartridge 30A As shown in FIG. 6, the drum cartridge 30A includes a frame 31 and a cylindrical photosensitive drum 32 extending in the first direction.

The frame 31 is configured so that the developing cartridge 1A can be mounted. The frame 31 has a rectangular tray shape. The frame 31 has a first end E1 and a second end E2 in a second direction different from the first direction. Specifically, the frame 31 has a first end E1 and a second end E2 in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. The second direction is a direction orthogonal to a surface 37A of the support wall 37 described later on the photosensitive drum 32 side. The surface 37A extends in the first direction. In the second direction, the side where the first end E1 is located is one side in the second direction, and the side where the second end E2 is located is the other side in the second direction. The first end E1 and the second end E2 are spaced apart in the second direction. The frame 31 supports the photosensitive drum 32 at a first end E1. That is, the photosensitive drum 32 is located at the first end E1. The frame 31 includes a wall 31A, a wall 31B, and a wall 31C. The wall 31A faces the outer surface 2A of the developing cartridge 1A in the first direction when the developing cartridge 1A is mounted. The wall 31B faces the outer surface 2B of the developing cartridge 1A in the first direction when the developing cartridge 1A is mounted. The wall 31C extends in the first direction between the wall 31A and the wall 31B.
4.2 Pressing Member 35A and Pressing Member 35B
As shown in FIG. 6, the drum cartridge 30A further includes a pressing member 35A and a pressing member 35B.

  The pressing member 35A is located at one end of the wall 31C in the first direction. The pressing member 35A is located closer to the wall 31B than the wall 31A in the first direction. The pressing member 35A is located between the photosensitive drum 32 and the second end E2 in the second direction. The pressing member 35A is located between the outer surface 2A of the developing cartridge 1A and the wall 31A of the drum cartridge 30A when the developing cartridge 1A is mounted on the drum cartridge 30A. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the pressing member 35A has a support wall 37, a pressing wall 38A, and a compression spring 39.

  The support wall 37 is located between the photosensitive drum 32 and the second end E2 in the second direction. The support wall 37 has a plate shape. The support wall 37 is continuous with the wall 31A and the wall 31C. Thereby, the support wall 37 is fixed to the wall 31A and the wall 31C.

  The pressing wall 38A is located between the support wall 37 and the photosensitive drum 32 in the second direction. The pressing wall 38A is located closer to the photosensitive drum 32 than the supporting wall 37 in the second direction. The pressing wall 38A is spaced from the support wall 37 in the second direction. The pressing wall 38A has a plate shape. The pressing wall 38A extends in the first direction.

  The compression spring 39 is located between the support wall 37 and the pressing wall 38A. The compression spring 39 extends in the second direction. In the second direction, one end of the compression spring 39 is fixed to the pressing wall 38A. In the second direction, the other end of the compression spring 39 is fixed to the support wall 37. Note that, in the second direction, one end of the compression spring 39 may be in contact with the pressing wall 38A. Further, the other end of the compression spring 39 may be in contact with the support wall 37 in the second direction. With the developing cartridge 1A mounted on the drum cartridge 30A, the compression spring 39 is compressed in the second direction between the support wall 37 and the pressing wall 38A. Thereby, the pressing member 35A presses the first protrusion 20A of the developing cartridge 1A toward the photosensitive drum 32 by the pressing wall 38A.

The pressing member 35B is located at the other end of the wall 31C in the first direction. The pressing member 35B is located closer to the wall 31A than to the wall 31B in the first direction. The pressing member 35B is located at the same position as the pressing member 35A in the second direction. The pressing member 35B is located between the outer surface 2B of the developing cartridge 1A and the wall 31B of the drum cartridge 30A when the developing cartridge 1A is mounted on the drum cartridge 30A. The pressing member 35B has the same structure as the pressing member 35A.
4.3 Projection 36A, Projection 36B, Projection 36C and Wall 40
As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the drum cartridge 30A further includes a protrusion 36A, a protrusion 36B, a protrusion 36C, a wall 40, and a recess 41.

  Each of the protrusion 36A, the protrusion 36B, and the protrusion 36C is located between the pressing member 35A and the second end E2 in the second direction. Each of the protrusion 36A, the protrusion 36B, and the protrusion 36C is located on the opposite side of the photosensitive drum 32 with respect to the pressing member 35A in the second direction.

  The protrusion 36A is located closer to the support wall 37 than the protrusion 36B and the protrusion 36C in the second direction. The protrusion 36A has a plate shape. The protrusion 36A extends in the first direction. The length of the protrusion 36A in the third direction orthogonal to both the first direction and the second direction is shorter than the length of the protrusion 36B in the third direction and the length of the protrusion 36C in the third direction. .

  The protrusion 36B is located on the opposite side of the support wall 37 with respect to the protrusion 36A in the second direction. The protrusion 36B has a plate shape. The protrusion 36B extends in the first direction.

  The protrusion 36C is located on the opposite side of the protrusion 36A with respect to the protrusion 36B in the second direction. The protrusion 36C has a plate shape. The protrusion 36C extends in the first direction.

  The wall 40 is located on the opposite side of the wall 31A with respect to the protrusion 36B and the protrusion 36C in the first direction. The wall 40 extends in the second direction. The wall 40 closes between the protrusion 36B and the protrusion 36C in the second direction.

The recess 41 is located between the support wall 37 and the protrusion 36B in the second direction. The recess 41 is located between the support wall 37 and the wall 40 in the second direction. The recess 41 is recessed toward the wall 31C in the third direction.
6. Attached State of Developing Cartridge 1A to Drum Cartridge 30A As shown in FIG. 7, the developing cartridge 1A can be properly attached to the drum cartridge 30A. The developing cartridge 1A and the drum cartridge 30A have a first specification, that is, a corresponding specific specification. It should be noted that the proper mounting of the developing cartridge 1A on the drum cartridge 30A means that the pressing member 35A and the pressing member 35B of the drum cartridge 30A apply a first pressing force (described later) to the first protrusion 20A of the developing cartridge 1A. It means that pressure is applied. Further, the developing cartridge 1A can be mounted on the image forming apparatus integrally with the drum cartridge 30A.

  With the developing cartridge 1A mounted on the drum cartridge 30A, the surface of the developing roller 3 can come into contact with the surface of the photosensitive drum 32.

  With the developing cartridge 1A mounted on the drum cartridge 30A, the first protrusion 20A is located closer to the developing roller 3 than the pressing member 35A in the second direction. In the second direction, a distance D1 between the center axis A4 of the developing roller 3 and the other end of the first protrusion 20A is, for example, 49.6 mm to 50.0 mm, and specifically, 49.8 mm. It is. In addition, the distance D1 may be 49.3 mm to 50.3 mm. Further, the distance D1 may be 40.0 mm to 60.0 mm. The pressing wall 38 of the pressing member 35A contacts the surface 22 of the first projection 20A. In the second direction, the distance D2 between the center axis of the photosensitive drum 32 and the pressing wall 38 is, for example, 73.9 mm to 74.5 mm after the developing cartridge 1A is mounted on the drum cartridge 30A. Is 74.2 mm. Note that the distance D2 may be 73.7 mm to 74.7 mm. Further, the distance D2 may be 70.0 mm to 80.0 mm. When the developing cartridge 1A is mounted on the drum cartridge 30A, the amount of compression of the compression spring 39 is, for example, 1.3 mm to 2.3 mm, and specifically, 1.8 mm. In addition, the shrinkage amount may be 1.0 mm to 3.1 mm. Further, the amount of shrinkage may be 0.6 mm to 3.5 mm. In the second direction, a distance D3 between the center axis of the photosensitive drum 32 and the support wall 37 is, for example, 85.5 mm to 85.9 mm, and specifically, 85.7 mm. In addition, the distance D3 may be 85.0 mm to 86.4 mm. Further, the distance D3 may be 80.0 mm to 90.0 mm. The pressing force of the pressing member 35A when the developing cartridge 1A is mounted on the drum cartridge 30A is the first pressing force. That is, when the developing cartridge 1A is mounted on the drum cartridge 30A, the first protrusion 20A receives the first pressing force from the pressing member 35A of the drum cartridge 30A toward the photosensitive drum 32. In other words, when the developing cartridge 1A is mounted on the drum cartridge 30A, the pressing member 35A pushes the first projection 20A of the developing cartridge 1A having the first specification toward the photosensitive drum 32 by the first pressing force. Press with.

When the developing cartridge 1A is mounted on the drum cartridge 30A, the second protrusion 21A is located in the recess 41. Specifically, the second protrusion 21A is located between the support wall 37 of the pressing member 35A and the protrusion 36B in the second direction. The second protrusion 21A is located at a distance from the support wall 37 of the pressing member 35A and the protrusion 36B in the second direction. The second protrusion 21A is located at a distance from the protrusion 36A in the third direction. That is, when the developing cartridge 1A is mounted on the drum cartridge 30A, the second protrusion 21A does not come into contact with the drum cartridge 30A. In other words, when the developing cartridge 1A is mounted on the drum cartridge 30A, none of the protrusions 36A, 36B, and 36C comes into contact with the second protrusion 21A of the developing cartridge 1A. In the second direction, the distance D4 between the center axis A4 of the developing roller 3 and the second protrusion 21A is, for example, 65.7 mm to 66.1 mm, and specifically, 65.9 mm. In addition, the distance D4 may be 65.4 mm to 67.4 mm. Further, the distance D4 may be 60.0 mm to 70.0 mm. In the second direction, a distance D5 between the support wall 37 and the protrusion 36A is, for example, 3.7 mm to 5.7 mm, and specifically, 4.7 mm. In addition, the distance D5 may be, for example, 3.2 mm to 6.2 mm. Further, the distance D5 may be, for example, 2.5 mm to 6.9 mm. In the second direction, a distance D6 between the support wall 37 and the protrusion 36B is, for example, 9.7 mm to 11.7 mm, and specifically, 10.7 mm. Note that the distance D6 may be 9.2 mm to 12.2 mm. Further, the distance D6 may be 8.0 mm to 13.4 mm. In the second direction, a distance D7 between the support wall 37 and the protrusion 36C is, for example, 15.7 mm to 17.7 mm, and specifically, is 16.7 mm. Note that the distance D7 may be 15.2 mm to 18.2 mm. Further, the distance D7 may be 13.0 mm to 20.4 mm.
5. Second specification developing cartridge 1B and second specification drum cartridge 30B
With reference to FIG. 8, a description will be given of the developing cartridge 1B of the second specification and the drum cartridge 30B of the second specification. In the developing cartridge 1B of the second specification and the drum cartridge 30B of the second specification, the same members as those of the developing cartridge 1A of the first specification and the drum cartridge 30A of the first specification are denoted by the same reference numerals. The description is omitted.

  In the developing cartridge 1B of the second specification, the second protrusion 21B is located further away from the developing roller 3 than the second protrusion 21A of the developing cartridge 1A of the first specification in the second direction. The second protrusion 21B of the developing cartridge 1B of the second specification is located at a position facing a protrusion 50B of the drum cartridge 30B of the second specification described later. In the developing cartridge 1B, the distance D8 between the central axis A4 of the developing roller 3 and the second protrusion 21B in the second direction is, for example, 71.7 mm to 72.1 mm, specifically, 71.9 mm. It is. Note that the distance D8 may be 71.4 mm to 72.6 mm. Further, the distance D8 may be 68.0 mm to 76.0 mm. The distance D8 is longer than the distance D4 of the developing cartridge 1A. With respect to the structure other than the position of the second protrusion 21B, the developing cartridge 1B of the second specification has the same structure as the developing cartridge 1A of the first specification.

  The drum cartridge 30B of the second specification includes a protrusion 50A, a protrusion 50B, a protrusion 50C, a wall 51, and a recess 52 instead of the protrusion 36A, the protrusion 36B, the protrusion 36C, the wall 40, and the recess 41. Other than that, the structure is the same as that of the drum cartridge 30A of the first specification.

  The protrusion 50A is located at the same position as the protrusion 36A in the second direction. The length of the protrusion 50A in the third direction is longer than the length of the protrusion 36A in the third direction.

  The protrusion 50B is located at the same position as the protrusion 36B in the second direction. The length of the protrusion 50B in the third direction is shorter than the length of the protrusion 36B in the third direction. The length of the protrusion 50B in the third direction is shorter than the length of the protrusion 50A in the third direction and the length of the protrusion 50C in the third direction.

  The protrusion 50C is located at the same position as the protrusion 36C and has the same structure.

  The wall 51 is located between the support wall 37 and the protrusion 50A in the second direction. The wall 51 extends in the second direction. The wall 51 closes between the support wall 37 and the protrusion 50A in the second direction.

  The recess 52 is located between the protrusion 50A and the protrusion 50C in the second direction. The concave portion 52 is located between the wall 51 and the protrusion 50C in the second direction. The recess 52 is recessed toward the wall 31C in the third direction.

  The developing cartridge 1B can be properly mounted on the drum cartridge 30B. The developing cartridge 1B and the drum cartridge 30B have a second specification, that is, a corresponding specific specification.

When the developing cartridge 1B is mounted on the drum cartridge 30B, the second protrusion 21B is located between the protrusion 50A and the protrusion 50C in the second direction. The second protrusion 21B is located at a distance from the protrusion 50A and the protrusion 50C in the second direction. The second protrusion 21B is located at a distance from the protrusion 50B in the third direction. That is, the second protrusion 21B does not come into contact with the drum cartridge 30B.
6. Third specification developing cartridge 1C and third specification drum cartridge 30C
With reference to FIG. 9, a third specification developing cartridge 1C and a third specification drum cartridge 30C will be described. In the developing cartridge 1C of the third specification and the drum cartridge 30C of the third specification, the same members as those of the developing cartridge 1A of the first specification and the drum cartridge 30A of the first specification are denoted by the same reference numerals. The description is omitted.

  In the developing cartridge 1C of the third specification, the second projection 21C is located on the other side in the second direction than the second projection 21B of the developing cartridge 1B of the second specification. The second protrusion 21C of the third specification developing cartridge 1C is located at a position facing a protrusion 60C of a third specification drum cartridge 30C described later. In the developing cartridge 1C, the distance D9 between the central axis A4 of the developing roller 3 and the second protrusion 21C in the second direction is, for example, 77.7 mm to 78.1 mm, and specifically, 77.9 mm. It is. In addition, the distance D9 may be 77.4 mm to 78.4 mm. Further, the distance D9 may be 75.5 mm to 80.3 mm. The distance D9 is longer than the distance D4 of the developing cartridge 1A and the distance D8 of the developing cartridge 1B. With respect to the structure other than the position of the second protrusion 21C, the developing cartridge 1C of the third specification has the same structure as the developing cartridge 1A of the first specification.

  The drum cartridge 30C of the third specification includes a protrusion 60A, a protrusion 60B, a protrusion 60C, a wall 61, and a recess 62 instead of the protrusion 36A, the protrusion 36B, the protrusion 36C, the wall 40, and the recess 41. Other than that, the structure is the same as that of the drum cartridge 30A of the first specification.

  The protrusion 60A is located at the same position as the protrusion 36A in the second direction. The length of the protrusion 60A in the third direction is longer than the length of the protrusion 36A in the third direction.

  The protrusion 60B is located at the same position as the protrusion 36B and has the same structure.

  The protrusion 60C is located at the same position as the protrusion 36C in the second direction. The length of the protrusion 60C in the third direction is shorter than the length of the protrusion 36C in the third direction. The length of the protrusion 60C in the third direction is shorter than the length of the protrusion 60A in the third direction and the length of the protrusion 60B in the third direction.

  The wall 61 is located between the support wall 37 and the protrusion 60B in the second direction. The wall 61 extends in the second direction. The wall 61 closes between the support wall 37 and the protrusion 60A and between the protrusion 60A and the protrusion 60B in the second direction.

  The concave portion 62 is located on the opposite side of the support wall 37 with respect to the protrusion 60B in the second direction. The concave portion 62 is located on the opposite side of the support wall 37 with respect to the wall 61 in the second direction. The recess 62 is recessed toward the wall 31C in the third direction.

  The developing cartridge 1C can be properly mounted on the drum cartridge 30C. The developing cartridge 1C and the drum cartridge 30C have a third specification, that is, a corresponding specific specification.

When the developing cartridge 1C is mounted on the drum cartridge 30C, the second protrusion 21C is located farther from the photosensitive drum 32 than the protrusion 60B in the second direction. The second protrusion 21C is located at a distance from the protrusion 60B in the second direction. The second protrusion 21C is located at a distance from the protrusion 60C in the third direction. The second protrusion 21C does not come into contact with the drum cartridge 30C.
7. Fourth specification developing cartridge 1D and fourth specification drum cartridge 30D
With reference to FIG. 10, a description will be given of a developer cartridge 1D of the fourth specification and a drum cartridge 30D of the fourth specification. In the developing cartridge 1D of the fourth specification and the drum cartridge 30D of the fourth specification, the same members as those of the developing cartridge 1A of the first specification and the drum cartridge 30A of the first specification are denoted by the same reference numerals. The description is omitted.

  In the developing cartridge 1D of the fourth specification, the first projection 20D is located closer to the photosensitive drum 32 in the second direction than the first projection 20A of the developing cartridge 1A of the first specification. In the developing cartridge 1D, the distance D10 between the center axis A4 of the developing roller 3 and the other end of the first protrusion 20D in the second direction is, for example, 45.6 mm to 46.0 mm. Is 45.8 mm. In addition, the distance D10 may be 45.3 mm to 46.3 mm. Further, the distance D10 may be 40.0 mm to 50.0 mm. The distance D10 is shorter than the distance D1 of the developing cartridge 1A. With respect to the structure other than the position of the first protrusion 20A, the developing cartridge 1D of the fourth specification has the same structure as the developing cartridge 1A of the first specification.

  In the drum cartridge 30D of the fourth specification, the pressing wall 38D is located closer to the photosensitive drum 32 than the pressing wall 38A of the drum cartridge 30A of the first specification in the second direction. In the drum cartridge 30D, the distance D11 between the center axis of the photosensitive drum 32 and the pressing wall 38D in the second direction is, for example, 69.9 mm to 70.5 mm after the developing cartridge 1D is mounted on the drum cartridge 30D. And specifically, 70.2 mm. In addition, the distance D11 may be 69.7 mm to 70.7 mm. Further, the distance D11 may be 64.9 mm to 75.5 mm. The distance D11 is shorter than the distance D2 of the developing cartridge 1A. In the structure other than the position of the pressing wall 38D, the drum cartridge 30D of the fourth specification has the same structure as the drum cartridge 30A of the first specification. In the drum cartridge 30D, the distance between the central axis of the photosensitive drum 32 and the pressing wall 38D in the second direction is, for example, 68.0 mm to 68.0 mm before the developing cartridge 1D is mounted on the drum cartridge 30D. It is 8 mm, specifically, 68.4 mm. Before the developing cartridge 1D is mounted on the drum cartridge 30D, the distance between the center axis of the photosensitive drum 32 and the pressing wall 38D in the second direction may be 67.0 mm to 69.8 mm. Before the developing cartridge 1D is mounted on the drum cartridge 30D, the distance between the center axis of the photosensitive drum 32 and the pressing wall 38D in the second direction may be 64.0 mm to 72.8 mm.

  The developing cartridge 1D can be properly mounted on the drum cartridge 30D. The developing cartridge 1D and the drum cartridge 30D have a fourth specification, that is, a corresponding specific specification.

In the drum cartridge 30D of the fourth specification, the compression spring 39 is the same as the compression spring 39 of the drum cartridge 30A of the first specification. In the drum cartridge 30D of the fourth specification, a spacer 221 is provided between the pressing wall 38D and the compression spring 39. As a result, in the drum cartridge 30D of the fourth specification, the pressing members 35A and 35B are pressed by the same first pressing force as the pressing members 35A and 35B of the drum cartridge 30A of the first specification. Is pressed toward the photosensitive drum 32.
8. Fifth specification developing cartridge 1E and fifth specification drum cartridge 30E
With reference to FIG. 11, the developing cartridge 1E of the fifth specification and the drum cartridge 30E of the fifth specification will be described. In the developing cartridge 1E of the fifth specification and the drum cartridge 30E of the fifth specification, the same members as those of the developing cartridge 1A of the first specification and the drum cartridge 30A of the first specification are denoted by the same reference numerals. The description is omitted.

  The developing cartridge 1E of the fifth specification has the same structure as the developing cartridge 1D of the fourth specification, except that the developing cartridge 1E of the fifth specification has the same second protrusion 21B as the developing cartridge 1B of the second specification.

  The drum cartridge 30E of the fifth specification has a projection 50A, a projection 50B, a projection 50C, a wall 51, and a concave portion 52 which are the same as those of the drum cartridge 30B of the second specification. It has a similar structure.

The developing cartridge 1E can be properly mounted on the drum cartridge 30E. The developing cartridge 1E and the drum cartridge 30E have the fifth specification, that is, the corresponding specific specification.
9. Developing cartridge 1F of the sixth specification and drum cartridge 30F of the sixth specification
With reference to FIG. 12, a description will be given of a developer cartridge 1F of the sixth specification and a drum cartridge 30F of the sixth specification. In the developing cartridge 1F of the sixth specification and the drum cartridge 30F of the sixth specification, the same members as those of the developing cartridge 1A of the first specification and the drum cartridge 30A of the first specification are denoted by the same reference numerals. The description is omitted.

  The developing cartridge 1F of the sixth specification has the same structure as the developing cartridge 1D of the fourth specification, except that it has the same second protrusion 21C as the developing cartridge 1C of the third specification.

  The drum cartridge 30F of the sixth specification has a protrusion 60A, a protrusion 60B, a protrusion 60C, a wall 61 and a recess 62 which are the same as those of the drum cartridge 30C of the third specification. It has a similar structure.

The developing cartridge 1F can be properly mounted on the drum cartridge 30F. The developing cartridge 1F and the drum cartridge 30F have the sixth specification, that is, the corresponding specific specification.
10. Compatibility between Developing Cartridge and Drum Cartridge Next, the compatibility between the developing cartridges 1A to 1F and the drum cartridges 30A to 30F will be described with reference to FIGS.

  As described above, each of the developing cartridges 1A to 1F can be properly mounted on the corresponding drum cartridge having a specific specification. In other words, each of the drum cartridges 30A to 30F can be equipped with a corresponding developing cartridge having a specific specification.

On the other hand, the developing cartridges 1A to 1F cannot be mounted on the drum cartridge having a specification different from the corresponding specific specification, or even if the first protrusion 20A or 20D can be mounted on the drum cartridge, No pressing force is applied. In other words, the developing cartridges having different specifications cannot be mounted on the drum cartridges 30A to 30F, or even if the developing cartridges can be mounted on the drum cartridges 30A to 30F, the pressing members 35A and 35B connect the first protrusions 20A or 20D to the first protrusions 20A or 20D. Do not press with pressing force.
10.1 Mounting of Developing Cartridge 1A to Drum Cartridge 30B When the developing cartridges 1A to 1C are mounted on the drum cartridges having different specifications among the drum cartridges 30A to 30C, the second protrusion 21A has different specifications. Abuts on the protrusion of the drum cartridge. This restricts the mounting of the developing cartridges 1A to 1C on the drum cartridges having different specifications.

  In other words, when developing cartridges having different specifications among the developing cartridges 1A to 1C are mounted on the drum cartridges 30A to 30C, any of the protrusions 36A to 36C, 50A to 50C, or 60A to 60C It abuts on the second protrusions of the developing cartridges having different specifications to restrict the mounting of the developing cartridges having different specifications.

  The same applies to the case where the developing cartridges 1D to 1F are mounted on the drum cartridges having different specifications among the drum cartridges 30D to 30F.

  As shown in FIG. 13, when the developing cartridge 1A is mounted on a drum cartridge 30B having a different specification, the second protrusion 21A of the developing cartridge 1A contacts the protrusion 36A of the drum cartridge 30B. This restricts the mounting of the developing cartridge 1A to the drum cartridge 30B. That is, the developing cartridge 1A cannot be mounted on the drum cartridge 30B.

Further, the first protrusion 20A is shifted from the pressing member 35A in the third direction. Therefore, the first projection 20A does not receive the first pressing force.
10.2 Attaching Developing Cartridge 1A to Drum Cartridge 30D When the developing cartridges 1A to 1C are attached to the drum cartridges 30D to 30F, the second projections 21A to 21C are different from the surface 22 at the drum cartridges 30D to 30F. Abuts against the pressing wall 38D. This restricts the mounting of the developing cartridges 1A to 1C on the drum cartridges 30D to 30F.

  As shown in FIG. 14, when the developing cartridge 1A is mounted on a drum cartridge 30D having a different specification, the first projection 20A of the developing cartridge 1A is different from the surface 22 in the pressing wall 38D of the drum cartridge 30D. Abut. This restricts the mounting of the developing cartridge 1A to the drum cartridge 30D. That is, the developing cartridge 1A cannot be mounted on the drum cartridge 30D.

In addition, the first protrusion 20A is offset from the pressing wall 38D in the third direction. Therefore, the first projection 20A does not receive the first pressing force.
10.3 Mounting of Developing Cartridge 1D on Drum Cartridge 30A As shown in FIG. 15, when the developing cartridge 1D is mounted on the drum cartridge 30A having a different specification, the first protrusion 20A of the developing cartridge 1A moves in the second direction. Is positioned at a distance from the pressing wall 38D of the drum cartridge 30D. Therefore, the first projection 20A does not receive the first pressing force.

The same applies to the case where the developing cartridge 1E is mounted on the drum cartridge 30B and the case where the developing cartridge 1F is mounted on the drum cartridge 30C.
11. According to the developing cartridges 1A to 1F and the drum cartridges 30A to 30F, when the developing cartridges 1A to 1F are mounted on drum cartridges having different specifications, the developing cartridges 1A to 1F cannot be mounted on the drum cartridge. Or, even if it can be mounted, the first protrusion 20A or 20D does not receive the first pressing force.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 13, the mounting of the developing cartridge 1A to the drum cartridge 30B is restricted by the contact of the second protrusion 21A of the developing cartridge 1A with the protrusion 50A of the drum cartridge 30B.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 14, the first projection 20A of the developing cartridge 1A abuts on the pressing wall 38D of the drum cartridge 30D at a portion different from the surface 22, so that the mounting of the developing cartridge 1A to the drum cartridge 30D is achieved. Be regulated.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 15, when the developing cartridge 1D is mounted on the drum cartridge 30A, the first protrusion 20A does not abut on the pressing wall 38D, and the first protrusion 20A is pressed by the first pressing member. No pressure.

  This allows the user to notice that the specifications of the developing cartridge and the specifications of the drum cartridge do not correspond.

As a result, the developing cartridge can be properly mounted on a drum cartridge having a corresponding specification.
12. Modification (1) In the above-described embodiment, the first protrusion 20A or 20D extends from the outer surface 2A, but is not limited thereto. For example, the first protrusion 20A or 20D may be attached to the outer surface 2A as a separate member. In addition, the first protrusion 20A or 20D may be attached to the outer surface 2A via another member. The first protrusion 20A or 20D may be fixed to the outer surface 2A.

Similarly, the second protrusions 21A to 21C may be attached to the outer surface 2A as separate members. In addition, the second protrusions 21A to 21C may be attached to the outer surface 2A via another member. The second protrusions 21A to 21C may be fixed to the outer surface 2A.
(2) In the above embodiment, the drum cartridges 30A to 30F have the protrusions 36A to 36C, 50A to 50C, or 60A to 60C, but the number of protrusions is not limited to three. Can be set according to the number of specifications of the developing cartridge and the drum cartridge. For example, the number may be two or four.
(3) In the above-described embodiment, when the developing cartridge 1D is mounted on the drum cartridge 30A, the first protrusion 20D of the developing cartridge 1D is configured not to contact the pressing wall 38A of the drum cartridge 30A. However, for example, the first protrusion 20D of the developing cartridge 1D may be configured to contact the pressing wall 38A of the drum cartridge 30A and receive a second pressing force smaller than the first pressing force.

  Specifically, when the first spring 20D of the developing cartridge 1D is in contact with the pressing wall 38A of the drum cartridge 30A, the compression amount of the compression spring 39 is reduced when the developing cartridge 1D is mounted on the drum cartridge 30D. It is configured to be smaller than that.

  In this case, when the developing cartridge 1D is mounted on the drum cartridge 30A, the first protrusion 20D receives a second pressing force smaller than the first pressing force from the pressing member 35A toward the photosensitive drum 32. In other words, when the developing cartridge 1D is mounted on the drum cartridge 30A, the pressing member 35A pushes the first protrusion 20D of the developing cartridge 1D toward the photosensitive drum 32 with the second pressing force smaller than the first pressing force. Press with pressure.

1A to 1F Developing cartridge 2 Housing 2A Outer surface 3 Developing roller 5 Agitator 11 Coupling 11B Coupling gear 12 Developing roller gear 14 Idle gear 14A First idle gear 14B Second idle gear 15 Agitator gear 20A, 20D First protrusion 21A- 21C Second protrusion 30A to 30F Drum cartridge 31 Frame 32 Photosensitive drum 35A Pressing member 35B Pressing member 36A to 36C Projection 50A to 50C Projection 60A to 60C Projection A1 First axis A2 Second axis A3 Third axis C1 Tooth Tip circle C2 Tip circle C3 Tip circle C4 Tip circle E1 First end E2 Second end

Claims (4)

A developing cartridge,
A housing capable of storing toner,
A developing roller extending in a first direction;
A developing roller gear connected to the developing roller and rotatable with the developing roller, and a developing roller gear located on an outer surface of the housing;
A coupling rotatable about a first shaft extending in the first direction and located on the outer surface, the coupling including a coupling gear meshing with the developing roller gear, and rotatable with the coupling;
A first idle gear meshing with the coupling gear and rotatable about a second shaft extending in the first direction, wherein the first idle gear is located on an outer surface of the housing;
A second idle gear rotatable with respect to the second shaft together with the first idle gear, located on the outer surface, and located further away from the outer surface than the first idle gear; Is smaller than the diameter of the first idle gear, and a second idle gear located on the outer surface;
An agitator extending in the first direction;
An agitator gear connected to the agitator and rotatable with the agitator about a third shaft extending in the first direction, wherein the agitator gear is located on the outer surface and meshes with the second idle gear;
A first projection extending in the first direction, located between the first axis and the third axis in a direction connecting the first axis and the third axis, and located on the outer surface; A first protruding portion, wherein the addendum circle of the developing roller gear, the addendum circle of the coupling gear, the addendum circle of the first idle gear, and the addendum circle of the second idle gear. A first protrusion located on the outside and a second protrusion extending in the first direction and located on the outer surface, the second protrusion being located on the opposite side of the first protrusion from the developing roller. A tooth circle of the developing roller gear, a tooth circle of the coupling gear, a tooth circle of the first idle gear, and a tooth circle of the second idle gear. With a second protrusion,
The agitator gear is spaced apart from the first protrusion and the second protrusion in the first direction ,
When the developing cartridge is mounted on a drum cartridge having a specific specification corresponding to the developing cartridge, the first protruding portion changes the specific specification from a pressing member of the drum cartridge having the specific specification. A developing cartridge receiving a first pressing force toward a photosensitive drum of the drum cartridge having the developing cartridge. When the developing cartridge is mounted on a drum cartridge having a specification different from the specific specification,
The first protrusion receives a second pressing force smaller than the first pressing force from the pressing member of the drum cartridge having the different specification toward the photosensitive drum of the drum cartridge having the different specification, or 2. The developing cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the developing cartridge does not receive any pressing force. The developing cartridge, when mounted on the drum cartridge having the particular specification, the second projection is claim 1 or characterized in that it does not contact the drum cartridge with a specified specifications The developing cartridge according to claim 2 . When the developing cartridge is mounted on a drum cartridge having a specification different from the specific specification, the second protrusion abuts on the drum cartridge having the different specification to perform development on the drum cartridge having the different specification. 2. The developing cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the mounting of the cartridge is regulated.

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