Patent ID: 11429055

Abstract:
A metal frame of an image forming apparatus includes a connecting member which is a metal plate and which connects first and second spaced apart support members which are constructed to support an image forming unit of the an image forming apparatus. The connecting member includes a first facing portion which faces a first region of the first support member around a slit portion thereof, and a fitted portion which is supported by an inner peripheral surface of the slit portion and is fitted into the slit portion in a plate thickness direction of the fitted portion. A width of the fitted portion in a direction vertical to a plate thickness direction of the first support member and the plate thickness direction of the fitted portion in the slit portion is less than or equal to a width of the slit portion in the vertical direction. The fitted portion includes a hook portion having a hook shape and a second facing portion which faces a second region which is provided on a rear surface of a surface of the first support member on which the first region is provided, and which is adjacent to the slit portion in the vertical direction with a gap.