# US 11,307,529 B2 · Cartridge, member constituting cartridge, and image forming apparatus

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- Number: US 11,307,529 B2
- Document ID: US11307529B2
- Status: Granted
- Kind: B2
- Application number: 16/734,760
- Filed: 2020-01-06
- Published: 2020-08-06
- Granted: 2022-04-19
- Earliest claimed: 2014-11-28
- Assignees: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
- Applicants: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
- Inventors: Masaaki Sato; Yukio Kubo; Hiroyuki Munetsugu; Koji Wada
- Web page: https://patentgrep.com/patent/US11307529B2

## CPC

- G03G 21/1842: {for guiding and mounting the process cartridge, positioning, alignment, locks (G03G21/1864 and G03G21/1871 take precedence)}
- G03G 21/1619: {Frame structures}
- G03G 21/1817: {having a submodular arrangement}
- G03G 21/1821: {means for connecting the different parts of the process cartridge, e.g. attachment, positioning of parts with each other, pressure/distance regulation (G03G21/1825 takes precedence)}
- G03G 21/186: {Axial couplings}
- G03G 21/1885: {position of the memory; memory housings; electrodes}
- G03G 15/0896: {Arrangements or disposition of the complete developer unit or parts thereof not provided for by groups G03G15/08 - G03G15/0894}
- G03G 21/1647: {Mechanical connection means}
- G03G 21/1825: {Pivotable subunit connection}
- G03G 21/1853: {the process cartridge being mounted perpendicular to the axis of the photosensitive member}
- G03G 21/1857: {for transmitting mechanical drive power to the process cartridge, drive mechanisms, gears, couplings, braking mechanisms}
- G03G: ELECTROGRAPHY; ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHY; MAGNETOGRAPHY

## Abstract

Movement and/or urging of a developer carrying memer is carried out with high precision. A cartridge that is mountable to an apparatus main assembly of an image forming apparatus, the cartridge includes a developing roller; a frame supporting the developing roller; a movable part movably supported by the frame and movable to a first position and to a second position relative to the frame; and an elastic part provided between the frame and the movable part to urge the movable part. The movable part includes a first force receiving part that receives force from the apparatus main assembly, in a direction of moving from the first position to the second position, and a second force receiving part that receives force from the apparatus main assembly, in a direction of moving from the second position to the first position. When the movable part receives force from the apparatus main assembly at the first force receiving part and is at the second position, the movable part receives urging force from the elastic part in a direction of moving the movable part from the second position to the first position.

## Claims

### Claim 1

A cartridge comprising:
a developing roller having a rotational axis about which the developing roller is rotatable;
a frame configured to support the developing roller;
a first lever connected to the frame, the first lever being movable relative to the frame;
a second lever connected to the frame, the second lever being movable relative to the frame and relative to the first lever;
a first spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the first lever relative to the frame;
a second spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the second lever relative to the frame; and
a coupling member configured to transmit a rotational force to rotate the developing roller, the coupling member having a rotational axis about which the coupling member is rotatable, and the coupling member being movable relative to the frame in a direction of its rotational axis; and,
a third spring urging the coupling member in the direction of the rotational axis of the coupling member,
wherein the first lever and the first spring are positioned at a first end portion of the frame in a direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein the second lever and the second spring are positioned at a second end portion of the frame that is opposite to the first end portion in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein the coupling member and the third spring are positioned at the first end portion of the frame, and
wherein a part of the first spring and a part of the third spring are positioned in a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 2 (depends on 1)

The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the first spring is compressed as the first lever moves closer to the developing roller, and the second spring is compressed as the second lever moves closer to the developing roller.

### Claim 3 (depends on 1)

The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the frame includes a first restricting part that contacts the first lever pressed by the first spring and a second restricting part that contacts the second lever pressed by the second spring.

### Claim 4 (depends on 1)

The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the first and second levers are rotatably supported by the frame and rotatable relative to the frame.

### Claim 5 (depends on 4)

The cartridge according to claim 4, wherein the frame has includes a developer accommodation part that accommodates developer, and
wherein, as viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, a rotational center of at least one of the first and second levers overlaps the developer accommodation part.

### Claim 6 (depends on 1)

The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the first lever includes a protrusion protruding beyond the frame.

### Claim 7 (depends on 6)

The cartridge according to claim 6, wherein, as viewed in the direction of rotational axis of the developing roller and with respect to a direction parallel to a straight line connecting the rotational axis of the developing roller and the rotational axis of the coupling member, the developing roller is positioned at one end side of the frame, and the protrusion is positioned at another end side of the frame.

### Claim 8 (depends on 6)

The cartridge according to claim 6, wherein the protrusion includes a portion curved toward a side of the developing roller.

### Claim 9 (depends on 6)

The cartridge according to claim 6, wherein, as viewed from one end side and along the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, the protrusion is exposed to outside of the frame.

### Claim 10 (depends on 1)

The cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising:
a memory board; and
an electrode portion connected to the memory board and positioned at the second end portion of the frame,
wherein a surface of the electrode portion is exposed the cartridge and intersects a direction in which at least one of the first and second levers moves relative to the frame.

### Claim 11 (depends on 1)

The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the first and second levers move in planes that are perpendicular to the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 12 (depends on 1)

The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein a part of the first lever and a part of the second lever are movable relative to the rotational axis of the coupling member in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis of the coupling member.

### Claim 13 (depends on 1)

The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein, as viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, the coupling member is positioned between the first lever and the developing roller.

### Claim 14 (depends on 1)

The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein, as viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, the coupling member is positioned between the first spring and the developing roller.

### Claim 15 (depends on 1)

The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the first spring is compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller, and
wherein the second spring is compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 16 (depends on 1)

The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein, when the first lever presses the first spring and the second lever presses the second spring, elastic forces of the first spring and the second spring are applied by the springs in a direction that is along a plane perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 17 (depends on 1)

The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the first spring is compressed in response to the movement of the first lever in a first direction, and the first spring expands in response to a movement of the first lever in a second direction, and
wherein the second spring is compressed in response to the movement of the second lever moving in a first direction, and the second spring expands in response to a movement of the second lever in a second direction.

### Claim 18 (depends on 1)

The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the first spring contacts the frame and the first lever, and the second spring contacts the frame and the second lever.

### Claim 19

A cartridge comprising:
a developing roller having a rotational axis about which the developing roller is rotatable;
a frame configured to support the developing roller;
a first lever connected to the frame, the first lever being movable relative to the frame;
a second lever connected to the frame, the second lever being movable relative to the frame and relative to the first lever;
a first spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the first lever relative to the frame;
a second spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the second lever relative to the frame;
a coupling member configured to transmit a rotational force to rotate the developing roller, the coupling member having a rotational axis about which the coupling member is rotatable; and
a third spring urging the coupling member in a direction of the rotational axis of the coupling member,
wherein the first lever and the first spring are positioned at a first end portion of the frame in a direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein the second lever and the second spring are positioned at a second end portion of the frame that is opposite to the first end portion in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein the coupling member is movable in the direction of its rotational axis between (i) a first position and (ii) a second position, with the coupling member being positioned closer to the second end portion of the frame when the coupling member is in the second position than when the coupling member is in the first position,
wherein the coupling member and the third spring are positioned at the first end portion of the frame, and
wherein a part of the first spring and a part of the third spring are positioned in a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 20 (depends on 19)

The cartridge according to claim 19, wherein the first spring is compressed as the first lever moves closer to the developing roller, and the second spring is compressed as the second lever moves closer to the developing roller.

### Claim 21 (depends on 19)

The cartridge according to claim 19, wherein the frame includes a first restricting part that contacts the first lever pressed by the first spring and a second restricting part that contacts the second lever pressed by the second spring.

### Claim 22 (depends on 19)

The cartridge according to claim 19, wherein the first and second levers are rotatably supported by the frame and rotatable relative to the frame.

### Claim 23 (depends on 22)

The cartridge according to claim 22, wherein the frame includes a developer accommodation part that accommodates developer, and
wherein, as viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, a rotational center of at least one of the first and second levers overlaps the developer accommodation part.

### Claim 24 (depends on 19)

The cartridge according to claim 19, wherein the first lever includes a protrusion protruding beyond the frame.

### Claim 25 (depends on 24)

The cartridge according to claim 24, wherein, as viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller and with respect to a direction parallel to a straight line connecting the rotational axis of the developing roller and the rotational axis of the coupling member, the developing roller is positioned at one end side of the frame, and the protrusion is positioned at another end side of the frame.

### Claim 26 (depends on 24)

The cartridge according to claim 24, wherein the protrusion includes a portion curved toward a side of the developing roller.

### Claim 27 (depends on 24)

The cartridge according to claim 24, wherein, as viewed from one end side of the cartridge and in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, the protrusion is exposed to outside of the frame.

### Claim 28 (depends on 19)

The cartridge according to claim 19, further comprising:
a memory board; and
an electrode portion connected to the memory board and positioned at the second end portion of the frame,
wherein a surface of the electrode portion is exposed the cartridge and intersects a direction in which at least one of the first and second levers moves relative to the frame.

### Claim 29 (depends on 19)

The cartridge according to claim 19, wherein the first and second levers move in planes that are perpendicular to the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 30 (depends on 19)

The cartridge according to claim 19, wherein a part of the first lever and a part of the second lever are movable relative to the rotational axis of the coupling member in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis of the coupling member.

### Claim 31 (depends on 19)

The cartridge according to claim 19, wherein, as viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, the coupling member is positioned between the first lever and the developing roller.

### Claim 32 (depends on 19)

The cartridge according to claim 19, wherein, as viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, the coupling member is positioned between the first spring and the developing roller.

### Claim 33 (depends on 19)

The cartridge according to claim 19, wherein the first spring is compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller, and
wherein the second spring is compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 34 (depends on 19)

The cartridge according to claim 19, wherein, when the first lever presses the first spring and the second lever presses the second spring, elastic forces of the first spring and the second spring are applied by the springs to the frame in a direction that is along a plane perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 35 (depends on 19)

The cartridge according to claim 19, wherein the first spring is compressed in response to the movement of the first lever in a first direction, and the first spring expands in response to a movement of the first lever in a second direction, and
wherein the second spring is compressed in response to the movement of the second lever moving in a first direction, and the second spring expands in response to a movement of the second lever in a second direction.

### Claim 36 (depends on 19)

The cartridge according to claim 19, wherein the first spring contacts the frame and the first lever, and the second spring contacts the frame and the second lever.

### Claim 37

A cartridge comprising:
a developing roller having a rotational axis about which the developing roller is rotatable;
a frame configured to support the developing roller;
a first lever connected to the frame, the first lever being movable relative to the frame;
a second lever connected to the frame, the second lever being movable relative to the frame and relative to the first lever;
a first spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the first level relative to the frame, with the first spring being compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller;
a second spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the second lever relative to the frame, with the second spring being compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller;
a coupling member configured to transmit a rotational force to rotate the developing roller, the coupling member having a rotational axis about which the coupling member is rotatable,
a third spring urging the coupling member in a direction of the rotational axis of the coupling member; and
a gear operatively connected to the coupling member, with a part of the coupling member being positioned inside of the gear,
wherein a part of the first lever and a part of the second lever are movable relative to the rotational axis of the coupling member in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis of the coupling member,
wherein the first lever and the first spring are positioned at a first end portion of the frame in a direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein the second lever and the second spring are positioned at a second end portion of the frame that is opposite to the first end portion in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein the coupling member is movable in the direction of its rotational axis between (i) a first position and (ii) a second position, with the coupling member being positioned closer to the second end portion of the frame when the coupling member is in the second position than when the coupling member is in the first position,
wherein the coupling member, the third spring, and the gear are positioned at the first end portion of the frame, and
wherein a part of the first spring and a part of the gear are positioned in a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 38 (depends on 37)

The cartridge according to claim 37, wherein the first spring is compressed in response to the movement of the first lever in a first direction, and the first spring expands in response to a movement of the first lever in a second direction, and
wherein the second spring is compressed in response to the movement of the second lever moving in a first direction, and the second spring expands in response to a movement of the second lever in a second direction.

### Claim 39 (depends on 37)

The cartridge according to claim 37, wherein the first spring contacts the frame and the first lever, and the second spring contacts the frame and the second lever.

### Claim 40

A cartridge comprising:
a developing roller having a rotational axis about which the developing roller is rotatable;
a frame configured to support the developing roller;
a first lever connected to the frame, the first lever being movable relative to the frame;
a second lever connected to the frame, the second lever being movable relative to the frame and relative to the first lever;
a first spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the lever, with the first spring being compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller;
a second spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the lever, with the second spring being compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller;
a coupling member configured to transmit a rotational force to rotate the developing roller, the coupling member having a rotational axis about which the coupling member is rotatable,
a third spring urging the coupling member in a direction of the rotational axis of the coupling member; and
a gear operatively connected to the coupling member, with a part of the coupling member being positioned inside of the gear,
wherein a part of the first lever and a part of the second lever are movable relative to the rotational axis of the coupling member in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis of the coupling member,
wherein the first lever and the first spring are positioned at a first end portion of the frame in a direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein the second lever and the second spring are positioned at a second end portion of the frame that is opposite to the first end portion in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein, as viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, the coupling member is positioned between the first lever and the developing roller,
wherein the coupling member is movable in the direction of its rotational axis between (i) a first position and (ii) a second position, with the coupling member being positioned closer to the second end portion of the frame when the coupling member is in the second position than when the coupling member is in the first position,
wherein the coupling member, the third spring, and the gear are positioned at the first end portion of the frame, and
wherein a part of the first spring and a part of the gear are positioned in a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 41 (depends on 40)

The cartridge according to claim 40, wherein the first spring is compressed in response to the movement of the first lever in a first direction, and the first spring expands in response to a movement of the first lever in a second direction, and
wherein the second spring is compressed in response to the movement of the second lever moving in a first direction, and the second spring expands in response to a movement of the second lever in a second direction.

### Claim 42 (depends on 40)

The cartridge according to claim 40, wherein the first spring contacts the frame and the first lever, and the second spring contacts the frame and the second lever.

### Claim 43

A cartridge comprising:
a developing roller having a rotational axis about which the developing roller is rotatable;
a frame configured to support the developing roller;
a first lever connected to the frame, the first lever being movable relative to the frame;
a second lever connected to the frame, the second lever being movable relative to the frame and relative to the first lever;
a first spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the first lever relative to the frame, with the first spring being compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller;
a second spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of second lever relative to the frame, with the second spring being compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller;
a coupling member configured to transmit a rotational force to rotate the developing roller, the coupling member having a rotational axis about which the coupling member is rotatable,
a third spring urging the coupling member in a direction of the rotational axis of the coupling member; and
a gear operatively connected to the coupling member, with a part of the coupling member being positioned inside of the gear,
wherein a part of the first lever and a part of the second lever are movable relative to the rotational axis of the coupling member in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis of the coupling member,
wherein the first lever and the first spring are positioned at a first end portion of the frame in a direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein the second lever and the second spring are positioned at a second end portion of the frame that is opposite to the first end portion in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein, as viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, the coupling member is positioned between the first spring and the developing roller,
wherein the coupling member is movable in the direction of its rotational axis between (i) a first position and (ii) a second position, with the coupling member being positioned closer to the second end portion of the frame when the coupling member is in the second position than when the coupling member is in the first position,
wherein the coupling member, the third spring, and the gear are positioned at the first end portion of the frame, and
wherein a part of the first spring and a part of the gear are positioned in a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 44 (depends on 43)

The cartridge according to claim 43, wherein the first spring is compressed in response to the movement of the first lever in a first direction, and the first spring expands in response to a movement of the first lever in a second direction, and
wherein the second spring is compressed in response to the movement of the second lever moving in a first direction, and the second spring expands in response to a movement of the second lever in a second direction.

### Claim 45 (depends on 43)

The cartridge according to claim 43, wherein the first spring contacts the frame and the first lever, and the second spring contacts the frame and the second lever.

### Claim 46

A cartridge comprising:
a developing roller having a rotational axis about which the developing roller is rotatable;
a frame configured to support the developing roller;
a first lever connected to the frame, the first lever being movable relative to the frame;
a second lever connected to the frame, the second lever being movable relative to the frame and relative to the first lever;
a first spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the first lever relative to the frame, with the first spring being compressed along a plane this perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller;
a second spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the second lever relative to the frame, with the second spring being compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller;
a coupling member configured to transmit a rotational force to rotate the developing roller, the coupling member having a rotational axis about which the coupling member is rotatable,
a third spring urging the coupling member in a direction of the rotational axis of the coupling member; and
a gear operatively connected to the coupling member, with a part of the coupling member being positioned inside of the gear,
wherein a part of the first lever and a part of the second lever are movable relative to the rotational axis of the coupling member in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis of the coupling member,
wherein the first lever and the first spring are positioned at a first end portion of the frame in a direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein the second lever and the second spring are positioned at a second end portion of the frame that is opposite to the first end portion in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein, as viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, the coupling member is positioned between the first lever and the developing roller,
wherein the coupling member is positioned at the first end portion of the frame,
wherein the first lever includes a protrusion protruding beyond the frame,
wherein the protrusion includes a portion curved toward a side of the developing roller,
wherein the coupling member is movable in the direction of its rotational axis between (i) a first position and (ii) a second position, with the coupling member being positioned closer to the second end portion of the frame when the coupling member is in the second position than when the coupling member is in the first position,
wherein the coupling member, the third spring, and the gear are positioned at the first end portion of the frame, and
wherein a part of the first spring and a part of the gear are positioned in a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 47 (depends on 46)

The cartridge according to claim 46, wherein the first spring is compressed in response to the movement of the first lever in a first direction, and the first spring expands in response to a movement of the first lever in a second direction, and
wherein the second spring is compressed in response to the movement of the second lever moving in a first direction, and the second spring expands in response to a movement of the second lever in a second direction.

### Claim 48 (depends on 46)

The cartridge according to claim 46, wherein the first spring contacts the frame and the first lever, and the second spring contacts the frame and the second lever.

### Claim 49

A cartridge comprising:
a developing roller having a rotational axis about which the developing roller is rotatable;
a frame configured to support the developing roller;
a first lever connected to the frame, the first lever being movable relative to the frame;
a second lever connected to the frame, the second lever being movable relative to the frame and relative to the first lever;
a first spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the first lever relative to the frame, with the first spring being compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller;
a second spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the second lever relative to the frame, with the second spring being compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller;
a coupling member configured to transmit a rotational force to rotate the developing roller, the coupling member having a rotational axis about which the coupling member is rotatable;
a third spring urging the coupling member in a direction of the rotational axis of the coupling member; and
a gear operatively connected to the coupling member, with a part of the coupling member being positioned inside of the gear,
wherein a part of the first lever and a part of the second lever are movable relative to the rotational axis of the coupling member in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis of the coupling member,
wherein the first lever and the first spring are positioned at a first end portion of the frame in a direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein the second lever and the second spring are positioned at a second end portion of the frame that is opposite to the first end portion in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein, as viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, the coupling member is positioned between the first spring and the developing roller,
wherein the coupling member is positioned at the first end portion of the frame,
wherein the first lever includes a protrusion protruding beyond the frame,
wherein the protrusion includes a portion curved toward a side of the developing roller,
wherein the coupling member is movable in the direction of its rotational axis between (i) a first position and (ii) a second position, with the coupling member being positioned closer to the second end portion of the frame when the coupling member is in the second position than when the coupling member is in the first position,
wherein the coupling member, the third spring, and the gear are positioned at the first end portion of the frame, and
wherein a part of the first spring and a part of the gear are positioned in a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 50 (depends on 49)

The cartridge according to claim 49, wherein the first spring is compressed in response to the movement of the first lever in a first direction, and the first spring expands in response to a movement of the first lever in a second direction, and
wherein the second spring is compressed in response to the movement of the second lever moving in a first direction, and the second spring expands in response to a movement of the second lever in a second direction.

### Claim 51 (depends on 49)

The cartridge according to claim 49, wherein the first spring contacts the frame and the first lever, and the second spring contacts the frame and the second lever.

### Claim 52

A cartridge comprising:
a developing roller having a rotational axis about which the developing roller is rotatable;
a frame configured to support the developing roller, the frame including a developer accommodation part that accommodates developer;
a first lever connected to the frame, the first lever being movable relative to the frame;
a second lever rotatably connected to the frame, the second lever being movable relative to the frame and relative to the first lever;
a first spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the first lever relative to the frame, with the first spring being compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller;
a second spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the second lever relative to the frame, with the second spring being compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller;
a coupling member configured to transmit a rotational force to rotate the developing roller, the coupling member having a rotational axis about which the coupling member is rotatable,
a third spring urging the coupling member in a direction of the rotational axis of the coupling member; and
a gear operatively connected to the coupling member, with a part of the coupling member being positioned inside of the gear,
wherein a part of the first lever and a part of the second lever are movable relative to the rotational axis of the coupling member in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis of the coupling member,
wherein the first lever and the first spring are positioned at a first end portion of the frame in a direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein the second lever and the second spring are positioned at a second end portion of the frame that is opposite to the first end portion in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein, as viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, the coupling member is positioned between the first lever and the developing roller,
wherein the coupling member is positioned at the first end portion of the frame,
wherein the first lever includes a protrusion protruding beyond the frame,
wherein the protrusion includes a portion curved toward a side of the developing roller,
wherein, as viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, a rotational center of the second lever overlaps the developer accommodation part,
wherein the coupling member is movable in the direction of its rotational axis between (i) a first position and (ii) a second position, with the coupling member being positioned closer to the second end portion of the frame when the coupling member is in the second position than when the coupling member is in the first position,
wherein the coupling member, the third spring, and the gear are positioned at the first end portion of the frame, and
wherein a part of the first spring and a part of the gear are positioned in a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 53 (depends on 52)

The cartridge according to claim 52, wherein the first spring is compressed in response to the movement of the first lever in a first direction, and the first spring expands in response to a movement of the first lever in a second direction, and
wherein the second spring is compressed in response to the movement of the second lever moving in a first direction, and the second spring expands in response to a movement of the second lever in a second direction.

### Claim 54 (depends on 52)

The cartridge according to claim 52, wherein the first spring contacts the frame and the first lever, and the second spring contacts the frame and the second lever.

### Claim 55

A cartridge comprising:
a developing roller having a rotational axis about which the developing roller is rotatable;
a frame configured to support the developing roller, the frame including a developer accommodation part that accommodates developer;
a first lever connected to the frame, the first lever being movable relative to the frame;
a second lever rotatably connected to the frame, the second lever being movable relative to the frame and relative to the first lever;
a first spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the first lever relative to the frame, with the first spring being compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller;
a second spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the second lever relative to the frame, with the second spring being compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller;
a coupling member configured to transmit a rotational force to rotate the developing roller, the coupling member having a rotational axis about which the coupling member is rotatable,
a third spring urging the coupling member in a direction of the rotational axis of the coupling member; and
a gear operatively connected to the coupling member, with a part of the coupling member being positioned inside of the gear,
wherein a part of the first lever and a part of the second lever are movable relative to the rotational axis of the coupling member in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis of the coupling member,
wherein the first lever and the first spring are positioned at a first end portion of the frame in a direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein the second lever and the second spring are positioned at a second end portion of the frame that is opposite to the first end portion in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein, as viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, the coupling member is positioned between the first spring and the developing roller,
wherein the coupling member is positioned at the first end portion of the frame,
wherein the first lever includes a protrusion protruding beyond the frame,
wherein the protrusion includes a portion curved toward a side of the developing roller,
wherein, as viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, a rotational center of the second lever overlaps the developer accommodation part,
wherein the coupling member is movable in the direction of its rotational axis between (i) a first position and (ii) a second position, with the coupling member being positioned closer to the second end portion of the frame when the coupling member is in the second position than when the coupling member is in the first position,
wherein the coupling member, the third spring, and the gear are positioned at the first end portion of the frame, and
wherein a part of the first spring and a part of the gear are positioned in a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 56 (depends on 55)

The cartridge according to claim 55, wherein the first spring is compressed in response to the movement of the first lever in a first direction, and the first spring expands in response to a movement of the first lever in a second direction, and
wherein the second spring is compressed in response to the movement of the second lever moving in a first direction, and the second spring expands in response to a movement of the second lever in a second direction.

### Claim 57 (depends on 55)

The cartridge according to claim 55, wherein the first spring contacts the frame and the first lever, and the second spring contacts the frame and the second lever.

### Claim 58

A cartridge comprising:
a developing roller having a rotational axis about which the developing roller is rotatable;
a frame configured to support the developing roller, the frame including a developer accommodation part that accommodates developer;
a first lever connected to the frame, the first lever being movable relative to the frame;
a second lever connected to the frame, the second lever being movable relative to the frame and relative to the first lever;
a first spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the first lever relative to the frame, with the first spring being compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller
a second spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the second lever relative to the frame, with the second spring being compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller; and
a coupling member configured to transmit a rotational force to rotate the developing roller, the coupling member having a rotational axis about which the coupling member is rotatable,
a third spring urging the coupling member in a direction of the rotational axis of the coupling member; and
a gear operatively connected to the coupling member, with a part of the coupling member being positioned inside of the gear,
wherein a part of the first lever and a part of the second lever are movable relative to the rotational axis of the coupling member in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis of the coupling member,
wherein the first lever and the first spring are positioned at a first end portion of the frame in a direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein the second lever and the second spring are positioned at a second end portion of the frame that is opposite to the first end portion in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein the coupling member is positioned at the first end portion of the frame,
wherein the first lever includes a protrusion protruding beyond the frame,
wherein the protrusion includes a portion curved toward a side of the developing roller,
wherein the coupling member is movable in the direction of its rotational axis between (i) a first position and (ii) a second position, with the coupling member being positioned closer to the second end portion of the frame when the coupling member is in the second position than when the coupling member is in the first position,
wherein the coupling member, the third spring, and the gear are positioned at the first end portion of the frame, and
wherein a part of the first spring and a part of the gear are positioned in a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 59 (depends on 58)

The cartridge according to claim 58, wherein the first spring is compressed in response to the movement of the first lever in a first direction, and the first spring expands in response to a movement of the first lever in a second direction, and
wherein the second spring is compressed in response to the movement of the second lever moving in a first direction, and the second spring expands in response to a movement of the second lever in a second direction.

### Claim 60 (depends on 58)

The cartridge according to claim 58, wherein the first spring contacts the frame and the first lever, and the second spring contacts the frame and the second lever.

### Claim 61

A cartridge comprising:
a developing roller having a rotational axis about which the developing roller is rotatable;
a frame configured to support the developing roller, the frame including a developer accommodation part that accommodates developer;
a first lever connected to the frame, the first lever being movable relative to the frame;
a second lever rotatably connected to the frame, the second lever being movable relative to the frame and relative to the first lever;
a first spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the first lever relative to the frame, with the first spring being compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller;
a second spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the second lever relative to the frame, with the second spring being compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller;
a coupling member configured to transmit a rotational force to rotate the developing roller, the coupling member having a rotational axis about which the coupling member is rotatable;
a third spring urging the coupling member in a direction of the rotational axis of the coupling member; and
a gear operatively connected to the coupling member, with a part of the coupling member being positioned inside of the gear,
wherein a part of the first lever and a part of the second lever are movable relative to the rotational axis of the coupling member in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis of the coupling member,
wherein the first lever and the first spring are positioned at a first end portion of the frame in a direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein the second lever and the second spring are positioned at a second end portion of the frame that is opposite to the first end portion in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein the coupling member is positioned at the first end portion of the frame,
wherein the first lever includes a protrusion protruding beyond the frame,
wherein the protrusion includes a portion curved toward a side of the developing roller,
wherein, as viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, a rotational center of the second lever overlaps the developer accommodation part, and
wherein the coupling member is movable in the direction of its rotational axis between (i) a first position and (ii) a second position, with the coupling member being positioned closer to the second end portion of the frame when the coupling member is in the second position than when the coupling member is in the first position,
wherein the coupling member, the third spring, and the gear are positioned at the first end portion of the frame, and
wherein a part of the first spring and a part of the gear are positioned in a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 62 (depends on 61)

The cartridge according to claim 61, wherein the first spring is compressed in response to the movement of the first lever in a first direction, and the first spring expands in response to a movement of the first lever in a second direction, and
wherein the second spring is compressed in response to the movement of the second lever moving in a first direction, and the second spring expands in response to a movement of the second lever in a second direction.

### Claim 63 (depends on 61)

The cartridge according to claim 61, wherein the first spring contacts the frame and the first lever, and the second spring contacts the frame and the second lever.

### Claim 64

A cartridge comprising:
a developing roller having a rotational axis about which the developing roller is rotatable;
a frame configured to support the developing roller, the frame including a developer accommodation part that accommodates developer;
a first lever rotatably connected to the frame, the first lever being movable relative to the frame;
a second lever rotatably connected to the frame, the second lever being movable relative to the frame and relative to the first lever;
a first spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the first lever relative to the frame, with the first spring being compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller;
a second spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the second lever relative to the frame, with the second spring being compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller;
a coupling member configured to transmit a rotational force to rotate the developing roller, the coupling member having a rotational axis about which the coupling member is rotatable;
a third spring urging the coupling member in a direction of the rotational axis of the coupling member; and
a gear operatively connected to the coupling member, with a part of the coupling member being positioned inside of the gear,
wherein a rotational axis of the first lever and a rotational axis of the second lever are parallel to the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein a part of the first lever and a part of the second lever are movable relative to the rotational axis of the coupling member in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis of the coupling member,
wherein the first lever and the first spring are positioned at a first end portion of the frame in a direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein the second lever and the second spring are positioned at a second end portion of the frame that is opposite to the first end portion in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein the coupling member is positioned at the first end portion of the frame,
wherein the first lever includes a protrusion protruding beyond the frame,
wherein the protrusion includes a portion curved toward a side of the developing roller,
wherein the coupling member is movable in the direction of its rotational axis between (i) a first position and (ii) a second position, with the coupling member being positioned closer to the second end portion of the frame when the coupling member is in the second position than when the coupling member is in the first position,
wherein the coupling member, the third spring, and the gear are positioned at the first end portion of the frame, and
wherein a part of the first spring and a part of the gear are positioned in a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 65 (depends on 64)

The cartridge according to claim 64, wherein the first spring is compressed in response to the movement of the first lever in a first direction, and the first spring expands in response to a movement of the first lever in a second direction, and
wherein the second spring is compressed in response to the movement of the second lever moving in a first direction, and the second spring expands in response to a movement of the second lever in a second direction.

### Claim 66 (depends on 64)

The cartridge according to claim 64, wherein the first spring contacts the frame and the first lever, and the second spring contacts the frame and the second lever.

### Claim 67

A cartridge comprising:
a developing roller having a rotational axis about which the developing roller is rotatable;
a frame configured to support the developing roller;
a first lever connected to the frame, the first lever being movable relative to the frame;
a second lever connected to the frame, the second lever being movable relative to the frame and relative to the first lever;
a first spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the first lever relative to the frame;
a second spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the second lever relative to the frame;
a coupling member configured to transmit a rotational force to rotate the developing roller, the coupling member having a rotational axis about which the coupling member is rotatable, and the coupling member being movable relative to the frame in a direction of its rotational axis;
a third spring urging the coupling member in the direction of the rotational axis of the coupling member; and
a gear operatively connected to the coupling member, with a part of the coupling member being positioned inside of the gear,
wherein the first lever and the first spring are positioned at a first end portion of the frame in a direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein the second lever and the second spring are positioned at a second end portion of the frame that is opposite to the first end portion in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein the coupling member, the third spring and the gear are positioned at the first end portion of the frame, and
wherein a part of the first spring and a part of the gear are positioned in a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 68 (depends on 67)

The cartridge according to claim 67, wherein the first spring is compressed as the first lever moves closer to the developing roller, and the second spring is compressed as the second lever moves closer to the developing roller.

### Claim 69 (depends on 67)

The cartridge according to claim 67, wherein the frame includes a first restricting part that contacts the first lever pressed by the first spring and a second restricting part that contacts the second lever pressed by the second spring.

### Claim 70 (depends on 67)

The cartridge according to claim 67, wherein the first and second levers are rotatably supported by the frame and rotatable relative to the frame.

### Claim 71 (depends on 70)

The cartridge according to claim 70, wherein the frame includes a developer accommodation part that accommodates developer, and
wherein, as viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, a rotational center of at least one of the first and second levers overlaps the developer accommodation part.

### Claim 72 (depends on 67)

The cartridge according to claim 67, wherein the first lever includes a protrusion protruding beyond the frame.

### Claim 73 (depends on 72)

The cartridge according to claim 72, wherein, as viewed in the direction of rotational axis of the developing roller and with respect to a direction parallel to a straight line connecting the rotational axis of the developing roller and the rotational axis of the coupling member, the developing roller is positioned at one end side of the frame, and the protrusion is positioned at another end side of the frame.

### Claim 74 (depends on 72)

The cartridge according to claim 72, wherein the protrusion includes a portion curved toward a side of the developing roller.

### Claim 75 (depends on 72)

The cartridge according to claim 72, wherein, as viewed from one end side and along the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, the protrusion is exposed to outside of the frame.

### Claim 76 (depends on 67)

The cartridge according to claim 67, further comprising:
a memory board; and
an electrode portion connected to the memory board and positioned at the second end portion of the frame,
wherein a surface of the electrode portion is exposed to outside of the cartridge and intersects a direction in which at least one of the first and second levers moves relative to the frame.

### Claim 77 (depends on 67)

The cartridge according to claim 67, wherein the first and second levers move in planes that are perpendicular to the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 78 (depends on 67)

The cartridge according to claim 67, wherein a part of the first lever and a part of the second lever are movable relative to the rotational axis of the coupling member in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis of the coupling member.

### Claim 79 (depends on 67)

The cartridge according to claim 67, wherein, as viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, the coupling member is positioned between the first lever and the developing roller.

### Claim 80 (depends on 67)

The cartridge according to claim 67, wherein, as viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, the coupling member is positioned between the first spring and the developing roller.

### Claim 81 (depends on 67)

The cartridge according to claim 67, wherein the first spring is compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller, and
wherein the second spring is compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 82 (depends on 67)

The cartridge according to claim 67, wherein, when the first lever presses the first spring and the second lever presses the second spring, elastic forces of the first spring and the second spring are applied by the springs to the frame in a direction that is along a plane perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 83 (depends on 67)

The cartridge according to claim 67, wherein the first spring is compressed in response to the movement of the first lever in a first direction, and the first spring expands in response to a movement of the first lever in a second direction, and
wherein the second spring is compressed in response to the movement of the second lever moving in a first direction, and the second spring expands in response to a movement of the second lever in a second direction.

### Claim 84 (depends on 67)

The cartridge according to claim 67, wherein the first spring contacts the frame and the first lever, and the second spring contacts the frame and the second lever.

### Claim 85

A cartridge comprising:
a developing roller having a rotational axis about which the developing roller is rotatable;
a frame configured to support the developing roller;
a first lever connected to the frame, the first lever being movable relative to the frame;
a second lever connected to the frame, the second lever being movable relative to the frame and relative to the first lever;
a first spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the first lever relative to the frame;
a second spring capable of being compressed in response to a movement of the second lever relative to the frame;
a coupling member configured to transmit a rotational force to rotate the developing roller, the coupling member having a rotational axis about which the coupling member is rotatable; and
a third spring urging the coupling member in a direction of the rotational axis of the coupling member; and
a gear operatively connected to the coupling member, with a part of the coupling member being positioned inside of the gear,
wherein the first lever and the first spring are positioned at a first end portion of the frame in a direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein the second lever and the second spring are positioned at a second end portion of the frame that is opposite to the first end portion in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller,
wherein the coupling member is movable in the direction of its rotational axis between (i) a first position and (ii) a second position, with the coupling member being positioned closer to the second end portion of the frame when the coupling member is in the second position than when the coupling member is in the first position,
wherein the coupling member, the third spring, and the gear are positioned at the first end portion of the frame, and
wherein a part of the first spring and a part of the gear are positioned in a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 86 (depends on 85)

The cartridge according to claim 85, wherein the first spring is compressed as the first lever moves closer to the developing roller, and the second spring is compressed as the second lever moves closer to the developing roller.

### Claim 87 (depends on 85)

The cartridge according to claim 85, wherein the frame includes a first restricting part that contacts the first lever pressed by the first spring and a second restricting part that contacts the second lever pressed by the second spring.

### Claim 88 (depends on 85)

The cartridge according to claim 85, wherein the first and second levers are rotatably supported by the frame and rotatable relative to the frame.

### Claim 89 (depends on 75)

The cartridge according to claim 75, wherein the frame includes a developer accommodation part that accommodates developer, and
wherein, as viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, a rotational center of at least one of the first and second levers overlaps the developer accommodation part.

### Claim 90 (depends on 82)

The cartridge according to claim 82, wherein the first lever includes a protrusion protruding beyond the frame.

### Claim 91 (depends on 90)

The cartridge according to claim 90, wherein, as viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller and with respect to a direction parallel to a straight line connecting the rotational axis of the developing roller and the rotational axis of the coupling member, the developing roller is positioned at one end side of the frame, and the protrusion is positioned at another end side of the frame.

### Claim 92 (depends on 90)

The cartridge according to claim 90, wherein the protrusion includes a portion curved toward a side of the developing roller.

### Claim 93 (depends on 90)

The cartridge according to claim 90, wherein, as viewed from one end side of the cartridge and in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, the protrusion is exposed to outside of the frame.

### Claim 94 (depends on 85)

The cartridge according to claim 85, further comprising:
a memory board; and
an electrode portion connected to the memory board and positioned at the second end portion of the frame,
wherein a surface of the electrode portion is exposed to outside of the cartridge and intersects a direction in which at least one of the first and second levers moves relative to the frame.

### Claim 95 (depends on 85)

The cartridge according to claim 85, wherein the first and second levers move in planes that are perpendicular to the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 96 (depends on 85)

The cartridge according to claim 85, wherein a part of the first lever and a part of the second lever are movable relative to the rotational axis of the coupling member in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis of the coupling member.

### Claim 97 (depends on 85)

The cartridge according to claim 85, wherein, as viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, the coupling member is positioned between the first lever and the developing roller.

### Claim 98 (depends on 85)

The cartridge according to claim 85, wherein, as viewed in the direction of the rotational axis of the developing roller, the coupling member is positioned between the first spring and the developing roller.

### Claim 99 (depends on 85)

The cartridge according to claim 85, wherein the first spring is compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller, and
wherein the second spring is compressed along a plane that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 100 (depends on 85)

The cartridge according to claim 85, wherein, when the first lever presses the first spring and the second lever presses the second spring, elastic forces of the first spring and the second spring are applied by the springs to the frame in a direction that is along a plane perpendicular to the rotational axis of the developing roller.

### Claim 101 (depends on 85)

The cartridge according to claim 85, wherein the first spring is compressed in response to the movement of the first lever in a first direction, and the first spring expands in response to a movement of the first lever in a second direction, and
wherein the second spring is compressed in response to the movement of the second lever moving in a first direction, and the second spring expands in response to a movement of the second lever in a second direction.

### Claim 102 (depends on 85)

The cartridge according to claim 85, wherein the first spring contacts the frame and the first lever, and the second spring contacts the frame and the second lever.