US 2014/0178098 A1 · Process Cartridge and Image Forming Device Having the Process Cartridge

Abstract

In an image forming device, a process cartridge is detachably insertable in a process frame. The developing coupling is provided in the one end of the developing unit for transmitting an external rotation force to the developing unit. The developing coupling has: a rotation axis; and a drum shutter to be pivotally moved between a first position at which the drum shutter covers the photosensitive drum and a second position at which the drum shutter does not cover the photosensitive drum. A shutter portion covering the part of the photosensitive drum at the first position. The shutter portion is in direct confrontation with the developing unit at the second position. When the process cartridge is inserted in the process frame, the drum shutter is positioned at the second position whereas when the process cartridge is not inserted in the process frame, the drum shutter is positioned at the first position.

Claims17

Dependent claims

An image forming device comprising:

a main frame;
a process frame configured to be inserted into or pulled out of the main frame;
and
a process cartridge detachably insertable in the process frame and comprising:
a photosensitive drum having a first rotation axis extending in an axial direction;
a developing unit disposed adjacent to the photosensitive drum and having one end and another end with respect to the axial direction;
a developing coupling provided in the one end of the developing unit for transmitting an external rotation force to the developing unit, the developing coupling having a second rotation axis extending in a direction parallel to the axial direction;
and
a drum shutter configured to be pivotally moved about a third rotation axis between a first position at which the drum shutter covers the photosensitive drum and a second position at which the drum shutter does not cover the photosensitive drum,
wherein the second rotation axis and the third rotation axis are coaxial with each other.

7 more elements

A process cartridge comprising:

a photosensitive drum rotatable about a first rotation axis extending in an axial direction;
a pair of side plates opposing each other at an interval and rotatably supporting the photosensitive drum therebetween;
a developing unit having one end and another end with respect to the axial direction and supported between the pair of the side plates;
a developing coupling provided in the one end of the developing unit for transmitting an external rotation force to the developing unit, the developing coupling having a second rotation axis extending in a direction parallel to the axial direction;
and
a drum shutter disposed between the pair of the side plates and pivotally movable about a third rotation axis between a first position at which the drum shutter covers the photosensitive drum and a second position at which the drum shutter does not cover the photosensitive drum,
wherein the second rotation axis and the third rotation axis are coaxial with each other.

4 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Process Cartridge and Image Forming Device Having the Process Cartridge

Life of this patent

Process Cartridge and Image Forming Device Having the Process Cartridge

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims17