Patent ID: 12228867

Hereinafter, a toner cartridge2according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described while referring to the accompanying drawings.

In the following description, an extending direction of an agitator20(FIG.3) of the toner cartridge2will be referred to as a “first direction”. Further, in a drum cartridge3, a direction of an array of a plurality of photosensitive drums70(FIG.1) will be referred to as a “second direction”. Further, an insertion direction of the toner cartridge2to the drum cartridge3will be referred to as a “third direction”. The first direction and the second direction cross each other, and preferably, perpendicular to each other. The second direction and the third direction cross each other, and preferably, perpendicular to each other. The third direction and the first direction cross each other, and preferably, perpendicular to each other.

1. Structure of Image-Forming Apparatus

FIG.1is a schematic view of an image-forming apparatus1. The image-forming apparatus1is an electro-photographic type printer. Specifically, the image-forming apparatus1is a laser printer or an LED printer. As illustrated inFIG.1, the image-forming apparatus1includes four toner cartridges2, the drum cartridge3, a body frame4, and a controller5.

As illustrated inFIG.1, the four toner cartridges2are attachable to and detachable from the drum cartridge3. Further, the drum cartridge3(to which the four toner cartridges2are attached) is a drawer attachable to and detachable from the body frame4. The number of the toner cartridge2attachable to the drum cartridge3is four in the present embodiment. However, the number of the toner cartridge2may be from one to three or not less than five.

The four toner cartridges2respectively accommodate therein toner of different colors (for example, cyan, magenta, yellow, and black). The image-forming apparatus1is configured to form an image on a printing sheet by the toner supplied from the four toner cartridges2.

The controller5is positioned in the body frame4of the image-forming apparatus1. The controller5includes a processor501such as a CPU, and a built-in memory502. The built-in memory502is a storage medium from which information is readable and in which information is writable. The processor501is configured to read the information from the built-in memory502and write information in the built-in memory502. The controller5is configured to realize printing in the image-forming apparatus1through the operations of the processor501in accordance with the programs stored in the built-in memory502.

Each of the four toner cartridges2has an IC chip41. The IC chip41is a readable/writable storage medium. The drum cartridge3includes: four drum contacts91a,91b,91cand91d; a drum harness92; and a drum connector93. The four drum contacts91a-91dare electrically connected to the drum connector93through the drum harness92. Further, the image-forming apparatus1includes a built-in connector403and a built-in harness404those positioned inside the body frame4. The built-in connector403is electrically connected to the controller5through the built-in harness404.

Upon attachment of the toner cartridges2to the drum cartridge3, the IC chips41contact the drum contacts91a,91b,91cand91d, respectively. Hence, the IC chips41are electrically connected to the drum contacts91a-91d. Further, upon attachment of the drum cartridge3(to which the toner cartridges2are attached) to the body frame4, the drum connector93contacts the built-in connector403so that the drum connector93is electrically connected to the built-in connector403. Accordingly, the IC chips41are electrically connected to the controller5through the drum contacts91a-91d, the drum harness92, the drum connector93, the built-in connector403, and the built-in harness404. As a result, the controller5can read information from the IC chips41and write information in the IC chips41.

FIG.2is a perspective view of the four toner cartridges2, the drum cartridge3, and a part of the body frame4. As illustrated inFIG.2, the body frame4includes a first side plate401and a second side plate402. The first side plate401and the second side plate402have a generally flat plate shape extending perpendicularly to the first direction. The first side plate401and the second side plate402are spaced away from each other in the first direction. The drum cartridge3to which four toner cartridges2are attached can be inserted in the second direction into a space between the first side plate401and the second side plate402.

2. Toner Cartridge

A structure of the toner cartridge2will be described next.

FIGS.3and4are perspective views of the toner cartridge2.FIG.5is a view of the toner cartridge2as viewed in a first direction from the side of a first end portion11described later.FIG.6is a view illustrating the toner cartridge2as viewed in the first direction from the side of a second end portion12described later.FIGS.7and8are partial exploded perspective views of the toner cartridge2.FIG.9is a cross-sectional view of the toner cartridge2taken along the line IX-IX inFIG.5.

As illustrated inFIGS.3through9, the toner cartridge2includes a casing10, a shutter16, the agitator20, two return springs31a,31b, a toner coupling321, a planet carrier322, a first planetary gear33a, a second planetary gear33b, a third planetary gear33c, a fourth planetary gear33d, a ring gear34, a sun gear351, a rotary plate352, a cover36, two bosses37a,37b(FIG.10), two locking members38a,38b, and an IC chip assembly40.

The casing10is a container for accommodating therein toner as developing agent. The casing10extends in the first direction. The casing10has the first end portion11, the second end portion12and a sleeve-like peripheral surface13. The first end portion11is distant from the second end portion12in the first direction. The shutter16, the two return springs31a,31b, the toner coupling321, the planet carrier322, the first planetary gear33a, the second planetary gear33b, the third planetary gear33c, the fourth planetary gear33d, the ring gear34, the sun gear351, the rotary plate352, the cover36, the two bosses37a,37b, and the two locking members38a,38bare positioned at the first end portion11. The IC chip assembly40is positioned at the second end portion12. The peripheral surface13extends in the first direction to connect the first end portion11and the second end portion12. The peripheral surface13is cylindrical in shape whose center is defined by a first axis A1extending in the first direction.

The casing10defines therein an accommodation chamber14. Toner is accommodated in the accommodation chamber14. The casing10has a toner discharge opening15, as illustrated inFIG.8. The toner discharge opening15is positioned at one end portion in the first direction of the peripheral surface13.

The shutter16is positioned at the first end portion11of the casing10. The shutter16includes a holder161and a shutter plate162. The holder161has a generally disc like shape whose center is coincident with the first axis A1. The shutter plate162extends from a part of the holder161in the first direction toward to the second end portion12of the casing10. The shutter plate162has a shutter opening163.

The shutter16is rotatable relative to the casing10about the first axis A1between a closed position where the shutter16closes the toner discharge opening15and an open position where the shutter16opens the toner discharge opening15. The shutter plate162covers the toner discharge opening15when the shutter16is at the closed position. Hence, the shutter16closes the toner discharge opening15. The shutter opening163of the shutter plate162overlaps with the toner discharge opening15when the shutter16is at the open position. Hence, the shutter16opens the toner discharge opening15. That is, the accommodation chamber14is made in communication with an outside of the casing10through the toner discharge opening15, the shutter opening163and a communication opening363of the cover36(described later). As a result, the toner accommodated in the accommodation chamber14is allowed to move to the drum cartridge3.

The peripheral surface13of the casing10has a recess19. The shutter plate162of the shutter16is positioned in the recess19. The recess19has a first surface191, a first stopper surface18, and a second stopper surface17. The first surface191has the toner discharge opening15. The first stopper surface18extends outward from the first surface191in a radial direction of an agitator shaft21(described later) of the agitator20. The second stopper surface17also extends radially outwardly from the first surface191.

The first stopper surface18is configured to stop a rotational movement of the shutter16from the closed position to the open position. The shutter16(shutter plate162) is in contact with the first stopper surface18at the open position of the shutter16. The second stopper surface17is configured to stop a rotational movement of the shutter16from the open position to the closed position. The shutter16(shutter plate162) is in contact with the second stopper surface17at the closed position of the shutter16. Hence, the rotational movement of the shutter16is restricted to a range between the closed position and the open position.

Incidentally, the first stopper surface18may not be configured to completely stop the rotational movement of the shutter16. For example, the shutter16may be slightly movable in a state of contact with the first stopper surface18. Further, the second stopper surface17may not be configured to completely stop the rotational movement of the shutter16. For example, the shutter16may be slightly movable in a state of contact with the second stopper surface17.

In the present embodiment, the toner discharge opening15and the first stopper surface18are both provided in the casing10. Therefore, precise positioning of the shutter16relative to the toner discharge opening15can be realized. Further, in the present embodiment, the toner discharge opening15and the second stopper surface17are both provided in the casing10. Therefore, precise positioning of the shutter16relative to the toner discharge opening15can be realized. Alternatively, the cover36may have the first stopper surface18and the second stopper surface17. Still alternatively, the first stopper surface18and the second stopper surface17may not be integral with the case10or the cover36.

The holder161has a circular hole167. The hole167penetrates through a center portion of the holder161in the first direction. The toner coupling321, the planet carrier322, the ring gear34, the sun gear351, and the rotary plate352are positioned in the hole167.

FIG.10is a cross-sectional view taken along the line X-X inFIG.9. As illustrated inFIG.10, the holder161has a first recess164a, a second recess165a, a third recess166a, a fourth recess164b, a fifth recess165b, and a sixth recess166b. These recesses164a,165a,166a,164b,165b,166bare recessed in the first direction toward the second end portion12of the casing10. These recesses164a,165a,166b,164b,165b,166aare arrayed with one another in this order in a circumferential direction to surround the hole167.

The agitator20is a conveyer member configured to agitate and convey the toner inside the casing10. The agitator20is positioned inside the casing10. As illustrated by broken lines inFIG.3, the agitator20includes the agitator shaft21and an agitator fin22. The agitator shaft21extends in the first direction along the first axis A1. The agitator shaft21has one end portion and another end portion in the first direction. The one end portion of the agitator shaft21is positioned at the first end portion11of the casing10. The other end portion of the agitator shaft21is positioned at the second end portion12of the casing10.

The agitator fin22extends radially outwardly from the agitator shaft21. That is, the agitator fin22extends from the agitator shaft21toward an inner peripheral surface of the casing10. The toner coupling321is connected to the one end portion of the agitator shaft21. In accordance with rotations of the toner coupling321about the first axis A1, the agitator shaft21and the agitator fin22also rotate about the first axis A1together with the toner coupling321. The toner in the casing10is agitated by the rotations of the agitator fin22.

Further, as illustrated inFIG.9, the agitator20includes a sleeve member23. The sleeve member23is fixed to the agitator shaft21. The sleeve member23is positioned closer to the one end portion of the agitator shaft21than to the other end portion of the agitator shaft21in the first direction. The sleeve member23has an outer peripheral surface formed with a helical groove.

The two return springs31a,31b, the toner coupling321, the planet carrier322, the first planetary gear33a, the second planetary gear33b, the third planetary gear33c, the fourth planetary gear33d, the ring gear34, the sun gear351, the rotary plate352, the cover36, the two bosses37a,37b, and the two locking members38a,38bare constituents of a mechanism for operating the shutter16and the agitator20. These components are positioned at the first end portion11of the casing10.

The two return springs31aand31bare elastic members to urge the shutter16from the open position toward the closed position. The two return springs31aand31bare tension springs. The return spring31ais accommodated in the first recess164aformed in the holder161. The return spring31bis accommodated in the fourth recess164bformed in the holder161.

The first recess164ais arcuate in shape whose center axis is coincident with the first axis A1. The return spring31ahas one end and another end in the circumferential direction about the first axis A1. The one end of the return spring31ais connected to the holder161. The other end of the return spring31ais connected to a spring seat366a(described later) of the cover36. The return spring31bhas one end and another end in the circumferential direction about the first axis A1. The one end of the return spring31bis connected to the holder161. The other end of the return spring31ais connected to a spring seat366b(described later) of the cover36. With this structure, lengths of the return springs31aand31bin the rotational direction of the shutter16can change in accordance with the movement of the shutter16between the closed position and the open position.

Specifically, the lengths of the return springs31a,31bin the rotational direction of the shutter16is changeable between a first state and a second state. The return springs31aand31bare at the first state while the shutter16is at the closed position, whereas the return springs31aand31bare at the second state while the shutter16is at the open position. The lengths of the return springs31a,31bin the rotational direction of the shutter16is greater in the second state than in the first state. Further, the lengths of the return springs31a,31bin the rotational direction of the shutter16in the second state are greater than natural lengths of the return springs31a,31bin the rotational direction of the shutter16.

The toner coupling321is connectable to a relay coupling82(described later) of the drum cartridge3. The toner coupling321is configured to receive driving force from the relay coupling82in a state where the toner coupling321is connected to the relay coupling82. The toner coupling321is rotatable about the first axis A1upon receipt of the driving force from the relay coupling82. The toner coupling321is connected to the one end portion in the first direction of the agitator shaft21. Hence, as the toner coupling321rotates, the agitator20is rotatable about the first axis A1together with the toner coupling321.

The toner coupling321has one end portion and another end portion. The one end portion of the toner coupling321is distant from the other end portion of the toner coupling321in the first direction. The one end portion of the toner coupling321is farther from the one end portion11of the casing10than the other end portion of the toner coupling321is from the one end portion11of the casing10in the first direction. In other words, the other end portion of the toner coupling321is closer to the one end portion11of the casing10than the one end portion of the toner coupling321is to the one end portion11of the casing10in the first direction.

The planet carrier322extends radially outwardly from the other end portion in the first direction of the toner coupling321. In the present embodiment, the toner coupling321and the planet carrier322are integral with each other. However, the toner coupling321and the planet carrier322may be provided as discrete members from each other, provided that the planet carrier322is rotatable about the first axis A1together with the toner coupling321.

A first planet pin323a, a second planet pin323b, a third planet pin323c, and a fourth planet pin323dare provided on the planet carrier322to extend therefrom outwardly in the first direction away from the first end portion11of the casing10. These pins323a,323b,323c,323dare solid cylindrical in shape. These pins323a,323b,323c,323dare arrayed with one another at intervals in a circumferential direction of the planet carrier322about the first axis A1. Preferably, these pins323a,323b,323c,323dare arrayed with one another in the circumferential direction at a constant angular interval of 90 degrees between neighboring pins.

The first planetary gear33a, the second planetary gear33b, the third planetary gear33c, and the fourth planetary gear33dare arrayed with one another in the circumferential direction about the first axis A1at intervals. Preferably, these planetary gears33a,33b,33c,33dare arrayed with one another in the circumferential direction with a constant angular interval of 90 degrees between neighboring planetary gears.

Specifically, the first planetary gear33ahas a first hole331aat a center thereof. The first planet pin323aextends through the first hole331a. The first planetary gear33ais supported by the first planet pin323a. The first planetary gear33ais rotatable about a first planet axis332arelative to the planet carrier322in a state where the first planet pin323ais inserted in the first hole331a. An outer surface of the first planetary gear33ahas a plurality of gear teeth333a.

The second planetary gear33bhas a second hole331bat a center thereof. The second planet pin323bextends through the second hole331b. The second planetary gear33bis supported by the second planet pin323b. The second planetary gear33bis rotatable about a second planet axis332brelative to the planet carrier322in a state where the second planet pin323bis inserted in the second hole331b. An outer surface of the second planetary gear33bhas a plurality of gear teeth333b.

The third planetary gear33chas a third hole331cat a center thereof. The third planet pin323cextends through the third hole331c. The third planetary gear33cis supported by the third planet pin323c. The third planetary gear33cis rotatable about a third planet axis332crelative to the planet carrier322in a state where the third planet pin323cis inserted in the third hole331c. An outer surface of the third planetary gear33chas a plurality of gear teeth333c.

The fourth planetary gear33dhas a fourth hole331dat a center thereof. The fourth planet pin323dextends through the fourth hole331d. The fourth planetary gear33dis supported by the fourth planet pin323d. The fourth planetary gear33dis rotatable about a fourth planet axis332drelative to the planet carrier322in a state where the fourth planet pin323dis inserted in the fourth hole331d. An outer surface of the fourth planetary gear33dhas a plurality of gear teeth333d.

In the present embodiment, the single planet carrier322supports the first planetary gear33a, the second planetary gear33b, the third planetary gear33c, and the fourth planetary gear33d. Hence, accurate positioning of the second planetary gear33b, the third planetary gear33c, and the fourth planetary gear33dwith respect to the first planetary gear33acan be attained.

Further, in response to the rotations of the toner coupling321about the first axis A1, the first planetary gear33a, the second planetary gear33b, the third planetary gear33c, and the fourth planetary gear33drotate about the first axis A1along with the rotations of the toner coupling321and the planet carrier322. As such, the first planetary gear33a, the second planetary gear33b, the third planetary gear33c, and the fourth planetary gear33dare rotatable about their planet axes332a,332b,332cand332d, respectively, and are also rotatable around the sun gear351as will be described later.

The ring gear34is annular in shape surrounding the first planetary gear33a, the second planetary gear33b, the third planetary gear33c, and the fourth planetary gear33d. The ring gear34has a central axis coincident with the first axis A1. An inner peripheral surface of the ring gear34has a plurality of gear teeth342. The gear teeth333aof the first planetary gear33a, the gear teeth333bof the second planetary gear33b, the gear teeth333cof the third planetary gear33c, and the gear teeth333dof the fourth planetary gear33drespectively mesh with the gear teeth342of the ring gear34.

The ring gear34has two arms341aand341b. The two arms341aand341bextend radially outwardly from an outer peripheral surface of the ring gear34. That is, the two arms341a,341bextends in a direction away from the first planetary gear33a, the second planetary gear33b, the third planetary gear33c, and the fourth planetary gear33dwith respect to the gear teeth342of the ring gear34. The arm341ais fitted in the second recess165aof the holder161. The arm341bis fitted in the fifth recess165bof the holder161. Hence, the shutter16is rotatable with the ring gear34. Accordingly, in response to the rotations of the ring gear34about the first axis A1, the shutter16rotates about the first axis A1with the ring gear34.

The sun gear351is rotatable about the first axis A1. The first planetary gear33a, the second planetary gear33b, the third planetary gear33c, and the fourth planetary gear33dare positioned around the sun gear351. An outer peripheral surface of the sun gear351has a plurality of gear teeth354. The gear teeth333aof the first planetary gear33a, the gear teeth333bof the second planetary gear33b, the gear teeth333cof the third planetary gear33c, and the gear teeth333dof the fourth planetary gear33dmesh with the gear teeth354of the sun gear351. The sun gear351has a circular hole351A whose center is coincident with the first axis A1. The toner coupling321is inserted in the hole351A of the sun gear351.

The toner coupling321, the sun gear351, the four planetary gears33a,33b,33c,33d, and the ring gear34are positioned at a plane extending perpendicular to the first axis A1. Specifically, in the radial direction of the agitator shaft21which is perpendicular to the first axis A1, the sun gear351is positioned farther from the first axis A1than the toner coupling321is from the first axis A1. In the radial direction of the agitator shaft21, the first planetary gear33a, the second planetary gear33b, the third planetary gear33c, and the fourth planetary gear33dare positioned farther from the first axis A1than the sun gear351is from the first axis A1. In the radial direction of the agitator shaft21, the ring gear34is positioned farther from the first axis A1than the planetary gears33a,33b,33c,33dare from the first axis A1. In other words, the toner coupling321, the sun gear351, the planetary gears33a,33b,33c,33d, and the ring gear34are aligned with one another in the radial direction of the agitator shaft21. With this structure, the toner cartridge2can have a reduced dimension in the first direction.

The sun gear351has one end portion and another end portion. The one end portion is distant from the other end portion in the first direction. The one end portion of the sun gear351is positioned farther from the first end portion11of the casing10than the other end portion of the sun gear351is from the first end portion11in the first direction. In other words, the other portion of the sun gear351is positioned closer to the first end portion11of the casing10than the one end portion of the sun gear351is to the first end portion11in the first direction.

The rotary plate352extends radially outwardly from the one end portion of the sun gear351. The rotary plate352is rotatable about the first axis A1with the sun gear351. In the present embodiment, the rotary plate352is integral with the sun gear351. However, the rotary plate352may be a discrete member with respect to the sun gear351, as long as the rotary plate352and the sun gear351are rotatable together about the first axis A1. An outer peripheral surface of the rotary plate352has a plurality of grooves353. The plurality of grooves353are arrayed with one another in a circumferential direction of the rotary plate352at intervals. Preferably, the plurality of grooves353be arrayed with one another in the circumferential direction with an equal interval between neighboring grooves. Each groove353is recessed radially inward from the outer peripheral surface of the rotary plate352. Each groove353has an arcuate shape as viewed in the first direction.

The cover36is coupled to the first end portion11of the casing10. The cover36includes a gear cover part361and a shutter cover part362. The gear cover part361has a generally disc shape which is centered on the first axis A1. The shutter cover part362extends in the first direction toward the casing10from a part of an outer peripheral portion of the gear cover part361. The return springs31a,31b, the toner coupling321, the planet carrier322, the first planetary gear33a, the second planetary gear33b, the third planetary gear33c, the fourth planetary gear33d, the ring gear34, the sun gear351, the rotary plate352, and the two bosses37a,37bare positioned between the first end portion11of the casing10and the gear cover part361in the first direction. The shutter cover part362covers at least a part of the shutter plate162of the shutter16.

The shutter cover part362has the communication opening363. The communication opening363overlaps with the toner discharge opening15irrespective of whether the shutter16is at the open position or at the closed position. The communication opening363is closed by the shutter plate162when the shutter16is at the closed position. The shutter opening163becomes aligned with the toner discharge opening15and the communication opening363when the shutter16is at the open position. Hence, the accommodation chamber14and the outside of the casing10are communicated with each other through the toner discharge opening15, the shutter opening163, and the communication opening363.

FIG.11illustrates the cover36as viewed in the first direction, specifically, in a direction from the second end portion12toward the first end portion11of the casing10. As illustrated inFIG.11, the cover36has a central through-hole364, two side through-holes365aand365b, the two spring seats366aand366b, and two guide grooves367aand367b.

The central through-hole364and the two side through-holes365a,365bextend throughout a thickness of the gear cover part361in the first direction. The central through-hole364is positioned at a center portion of the gear cover part361. The central through-hole364has a circular shape as viewed in the first direction. The toner coupling321extends through the central through-hole364to be exposed to the outside of the cover36. The two side through-holes365a,365bare positioned around the central through-hole364such that the two side through-holes365a,365bare positioned diametrically opposite to each other with respect to the central through-hole364. The two side through-holes365a,365bhave a rectangular shape as viewed in the first direction. As illustrated inFIG.12, the locking member38awhich will be described later extends through the side through-hole365ato be exposed to the outside of the cover36; and the locking member38bwhich will be described later extends through the side through-hole365bto be exposed to the outside of the cover36.

The two spring seats366a,366bprotrudes in the first direction toward the shutter16(inward) from the gear cover part361. The two spring seats366a,366bare positioned diametrically opposite to each other with respect to the central through-hole364. The spring seat366ais connected to the other end of the return spring31aas described above. The spring seat366bis connected to the other end of the return spring31bas described above.

The guide groove367ais configured to guide the boss37a. The guide groove367bis configured to guide the boss37b. The two guide grooves367a,367bare positioned at a surface of the gear cover part361, the surface facing the shutter16in the first direction. The two guide grooves367a,367bare positioned opposite to each other with respect to the central through-hole364. Each of the two guide grooves367a,367bextends generally in the rotational direction of the shutter16. Each of the two guide grooves367a,367bhas an arcuate shape when viewed in the first direction. Each of the two guide grooves367a,367bhas one end367C and another end367F in the rotational direction of the shutter16. The one end367C is positioned closer to the first axis A1than the other end367F is to the first axis A1.

The two bosses37a,37bare positioned around the rotary plate352. The boss37ais movably positioned in the second recess165aof the holder161. The boss37bis movably positioned in the fifth recess165bof the holder161. Hence, by the rotations of the shutter16about the first axis A1, the boss37amoves in the circumferential direction of the holder161about the first axis A1with the second recess165a, and the boss37bmoves in the circumferential direction of the holder161about the first axis A1with the fifth recess165b.

The boss37ahas a guide protrusion371a. The guide protrusion371aprotrudes from the boss37aoutward in the first direction toward the guide groove367a. The boss37bhas a guide protrusion371b. The guide protrusion371bprotrudes from the boss37boutward in the first direction toward the guide groove367b.FIGS.12and13are cross-sectional views taken along the line XII-XII inFIG.9.FIG.12illustrates the closed position of the shutter16, andFIG.13illustrates the open position of the shutter16. As illustrated inFIGS.12and13, a tip end portion of the guide protrusion371ais inserted in the guide groove367aof the cover36, and a tip end portion of the guide protrusion371bis inserted in the guide groove367bof the cover36.

The second recess165aof the shutter16extends in the radial direction about the first axis A1. Therefore, the boss37ais movable between a first position (FIG.12) and a second position (FIG.13) positioned radially outward of the first position along the second recess165ain accordance with the movement of the guide protrusion371aalong the guide groove367a. In a state where the boss37ais at the first position, a radially-inward end portion372aof the boss37ais positioned in one of the grooves353of the rotary plate352. In a state where the boss37ais at the second position, the boss37ain an entirety thereof is positioned outside of any of the groove353of the rotary plate352. Since the plurality of the grooves353is arranged on the entire outer peripheral surface of the rotary plate352, the boss37acan be inserted in the groove353regardless of the rotational position of the rotary plate352.

The fifth recess165bextends in the radial direction about the first axis A1. Therefore, the boss37bis movable between a first position (FIG.12) and a second position (FIG.13) positioned radially outward of the first position along the fifth recess165bin accordance with the movement of the guide protrusion371balong the guide groove367b. In a state where the boss37bis at the first position, a radially-inward end portion372bof the boss37bis positioned in one of the grooves353of the rotary plate352. In a state where the boss37bis at the second position, the boss37bin an entirety thereof is positioned outside of any the groove353of the rotary plate352. The boss37bcan also be inserted in the groove353regardless of the rotational position of the rotary plate352.

In a case where the relay coupling82(described later) is not connected to the toner coupling321, that is, in a case where no driving force is supplied to the toner coupling321, the return springs31a,31bare in the first state because of the resiliency thereof, and hence, the shutter16is at the closed position. Accordingly, the toner discharge opening15is closed by the shutter plate162.

At this time, as illustrated inFIG.12, the guide protrusion371aof the boss37ais positioned at the one end367C of the guide groove367a, and the guide protrusion371bof the boss37bis positioned at the one end367C of the guide groove367b. As such, the bosses37a,37bare positioned at the first position (FIG.12). Accordingly, the radially-inward end portions372a,372bof the bosses37a,37bare respectively inserted in two of the grooves353of the rotary plate352.

That is, the boss37ais fitted in both the second recess165aof the shutter16and one of the grooves353of the rotary plate352. Further, the boss37bis fitted in both the fifth recess165bof the shutter16and another one of the grooves353of the rotary plate352. Consequently, the shutter16and the ring gear34are rotatable together with the sun gear351, the rotary plate352, and the bosses37a,37b.

In this state, the ring gear34is not rotatable relative to the sun gear351. That is, the ring gear34is rotatable with the sun gear351. Hence, the first planetary gear33ameshing with both the ring gear34and the sun gear351is not rotatable about the first planet axis332a. In the same manner, the second planetary gear33bis not rotatable about the second planet axis332b; the third planetary gear33cis not rotatable about the third planet axis332c; and the fourth planetary gear33dis not rotatable about the fourth planet axis332d.

When the driving force is supplied to the toner coupling321with this state, the shutter16is rotated by the rotation of the toner coupling321together with the rotations of planet carrier322, the first planetary gear33a, the second planetary gear33b, the third planetary gear33c, the fourth planetary gear33d, the sun gear351, the rotary plate352, the two bosses37a,37b, and the ring gear34about the first axis A1. As a result, the shutter16moves from the closed position to the open position, and hence, the toner discharge opening15is opened.

In accordance with the rotation of the shutter16, the return springs31a,31bare stretched and are changed from the first state to the second state. The movement of the shutter16is stopped upon abutment of the shutter plate162with the first stopper surface18. At this time, as illustrated inFIG.13, the guide protrusion371aof the boss37amoves from the one end367C to the other end367F of the guide groove367a, and the guide protrusion371bof the boss37bmoves from the one end367C to the other end367F of the guide groove367b.

In response to the movement of the guide protrusions371aand371b, the boss37amoves from the first position to the second position along the second recess165a, and the boss37bmoves from the first position to the second position along the fifth recess165b. Hence, the bosses37a,37bmove away from the grooves353of the rotary plate352. That is, the boss37ais fitted in the second recess165aof the shutter16but is disengaged from any of the grooves353of the rotary plate352; and the boss37bis fitted in the fifth recess165bof the shutter16but is disengaged from any of the groove353of the rotary plate352. Consequently, the sun gear351and the rotary plate352becomes rotatable relative to the shutter16and the ring gear34.

As described above, abutment of the shutter plate162of the shutter16with the first stopper surface18stops the rotation of the shutter16and the ring gear34. However, the sun gear351becomes rotatable relative to the ring gear34, since the bosses37a,37bare separated from the grooves353of the rotary plate352. Therefore, the first planetary gear33ameshing with the ring gear34and the sun gear351is rotatable about the first planet axis332a. Likewise, the second planetary gear33bmeshing with the ring gear34and the sun gear351is rotatable about the second planet axis332b; the third planetary gear33cmeshing with the ring gear34and the sun gear351is rotatable about the third planet axis332c; and the fourth planetary gear33dmeshing with the ring gear34and the sun gear351is rotatable about the fourth planet axis332d.

Accordingly, the first planetary gear33a, the second planetary gear33b, the third planetary gear33c, and the fourth planetary gear33dmove around the sun gear351in a circumferential direction thereof while rotating about their planet axes332a,332b,332cand332d, respectively. Further, the sun gear351is rotated about the first axis A1due to the meshing with the first planetary gear33a, the second planetary gear33b, the third planetary gear33c, and the fourth planetary gear33d. Here, a rotation speed of the sun gear351is higher than that of the toner coupling321.

In this way, in a state where the bosses37a,37bare at the second position, the first planetary gear33a, the second planetary gear33b, the third planetary gear33c, the fourth planetary gear33d, and the sun gear351are rotatable relative to the ring gear34. Hence, in accordance with the rotation of the toner coupling321, the planetary gears33a,33b,33c,33dare in rotatable state but the ring gear34is in non-rotatable state. Therefore, the shutter16is kept at the open position, regardless of further rotations of the toner coupling321after the shutter16moves to the open position.

Further, the toner coupling321is connected to the one end portion of the agitator shaft21as described above. Therefore, the agitator20is rotatable about the first axis A1in accordance with the rotation of the toner coupling321about the first axis A1. Hence, the agitator20can continue to rotate by the rotation of the toner coupling321even after the shutter16is held at the open position. Thus, the toner in the casing10can be agitated by the agitator20.

As such, the toner cartridge2realizes both the movement of the shutter16and the rotation of the agitator20in response to the rotation of the toner coupling321. Specifically, the rotation of the toner coupling321causes the rotation of the agitator20and the movement of the shutter16from the closed position to the open position. Further, in accordance with the movement of the shutter16from the closed position to the open position, the bosses37a,37bmove from the first position to the second position. Hence, the first planetary gear33a, the second planetary gear33b, the third planetary gear33c, the fourth planetary gear33d, and the sun gear351become rotatable freely while the ring gear34becomes non-rotatable. As a result, the agitator20can continue to rotate while the shutter16is maintained at the open position.

Thereafter, upon halt of the power supply to the toner coupling321, the return springs31a,31bare compressed because of resiliency thereof and are changed from the second state to the first state. Hence, the shutter16moves from the open position to the closed position, thereby causing the toner discharge opening15to be closed again by the shutter plate162.

The two locking members38a,38bare configured to lock the rotational position of the shutter16. The locking member38ais configured to be fitted in the third recess166aof the holder161. The locking member38bis configured to be fitted in the sixth recess166bof the holder161.

Specifically, the locking member38aincludes a base383a, a locking protrusion381a, and a locking spring382a. The locking protrusion381aprotrudes from the base383atoward the side through-hole365aof the cover36. The locking member38ais movable between a locking position and a release position in the first direction. At the locking position of the locking member38a, the locking protrusion381ais positioned outside of the second recess165aof the shutter16and the base383ais positioned in the second recess165a. At the release position of the locking member38a, the locking protrusion381ais positioned inside the second recess165aand the base383ais positioned in the second recess165a.

The locking spring382ais interposed between the base383aand the holder161. The locking spring382ais an elastic member, and more specifically, a compression spring. A length of the locking spring382ain the first direction is changeable between a stretched state and a compressed state. The length in the first direction of the locking spring382ain the stretched state is longer than the length in the compressed state. The locking member38ais at the locking position in the stretched state of the locking spring382a. The locking member38ais at the release position in the compressed state of the locking spring382a. The locking protrusion381ais normally urged toward the locking position (to be inserted in the side through-hole365aof the cover36) in the first direction by the resilient force of the locking spring382a.

Likewise, the locking member38bincludes a base383b, a locking protrusion381b, and a locking spring382b. The locking protrusion381bprotrudes from the base383btoward the side through-hole365bof the cover36. The locking member38bis movable between a locking position and a release position in the first direction. At the locking position of the locking member38b, the locking protrusion381bis positioned outside of the sixth recess165bbut the base383bis positioned in the sixth recess165b. At the release position of the locking member38b, the locking protrusion381bis positioned inside the sixth recess165band the base383bis positioned in the sixth recess165.

The locking spring382bis interposed between the base383band the holder161. The locking spring382bis an elastic member, and more specifically, a compression spring. A length of the locking spring382bin the first direction is changeable between a stretched state and a compressed state. The length in the first direction of the locking spring382bin the stretched state is longer than the length in the compressed state. The locking member38bis at the locking position in the stretched state of the locking spring382b. The locking member38bis at the release position in the compressed state of the locking spring382b. The locking protrusion381bis normally urged toward the locking position (to be inserted in the side through-hole365bof the cover36) in the first direction by the resilient force of the locking spring382b.

The locking protrusion381ais inserted in the side through-hole365awhen the locking member38ais at the locking position, i.e., when the locking spring382ais in the stretched state. The locking protrusion381bis inserted in the side through-hole365bwhen the locking member38bis at the locking position, i.e., when the locking spring382bis in the stretched state.

In the state where the locking protrusion381ais inserted in the side through-hole365a, the locking member38ais in contact with both the cover36and the holder161. Likewise, in the state where the locking protrusion381bis inserted in the side through-hole365b, the locking member38bis in contact with both the cover36and the holder161. In this state, the shutter16is not rotatable about the first axis A1relative to the casing10and the cover36. Accordingly, the shutter16is immovable from the closed position toward the open position.

As will be described later, the drum cartridge3includes a corresponding unlock member81configured to push both the locking protrusion381aand the locking protrusion381btoward the holder161in the first direction. The locking spring382aand the locking spring382bare shrunk from the stretched state to the compressed state when the locking protrusion381aand the locking protrusion381bare pushed by the unlock member81. Hence, the locking members38a,38bmove from the locking position to the release position. That is, the locking protrusions381a,381bare disengaged from the side through-holes365a,365bof the cover36, respectively, so that the locking members38a,38bare separated from the cover36. Accordingly, the locking members38a,38band the shutter16become rotatable about the first axis A1with respect to the casing10and the cover36. Consequently, the shutter16is movable from the closed position to the open position.

According to the present embodiment, the shutter16cannot be unlocked unless the two locking protrusions381a,381bare simultaneously depressed. This structure can prevent the shutter16from accidentally being unlocked by user's erroneous operation in a state where the toner cartridge2is not attached to the drum cartridge3.

FIGS.14and15are cross-sectional views taken along the line XIV-XIV inFIG.9illustrating a connecting portion between the agitator shaft21and the toner coupling321. As illustrated inFIGS.14and15, the toner coupling321has two clutch holes324a,324b. The two clutch holes324a,324bare through-holes extending throughout a length of the toner coupling321in the first direction, or recesses recessed in the first direction. The clutch holes324a,324bhave an arcuate shape centered on the first axis A1.

The agitator shaft21has two clutch pawls211a,211b. The clutch pawls211a,211bare positioned at the one end portion in the first direction of the agitator shaft21. The clutch pawls211aand211bare inserted in the clutch holes324aand324b, respectively. The clutch hole324ahas a length in a circumferential direction about the first axis A1which is greater than that of the clutch pawl211a. The clutch hole324bhas a length in the circumferential direction about the first axis A1which is greater than that of the clutch pawl211b. Further, each of the clutch holes324a,324bhas a central angle about the first axis A1approximately equal to or greater than the rotational angle of the shutter16between the closed position and the open position about the first axis A1.

For moving the shutter16from the closed position toward the open position, the toner coupling321is rotated about the first axis A1in a rotational direction (as indicted by an arrow R1inFIG.14) which is the same as the moving direction of the shutter16from the closed position toward the open position. At this time, the clutch pawl211ais in contact with one end of the clutch holes324ain the circumferential direction, and the clutch pawl211bis in contact with one end of the clutch hole324bin the circumferential direction, as illustrated inFIG.14. Hence, the rotation of the toner coupling321is transmitted to the agitator20. Accordingly, the agitator20rotates together with the toner coupling321in the rotational direction R1coincident with the moving direction of the shutter16from the closed position to the open position. Further, the agitator20rotates by the rotation of the toner coupling321even after the shutter16moves to the closed position from the open position.

For moving the shutter16from the open position toward the closed position, the toner coupling321is rotated with the shutter16about the first axis A1in a rotational direction (as indicted by an arrow R2inFIG.15) which is the same as the moving direction of the shutter16from the open position toward the closed position. That is, the rotational direction R2of the toner coupling321when the shutter16moves from the open position toward the closed position is opposite to the rotational direction R1of the toner coupling321when the shutter16moves from the closed position toward the open position. At this time, the one end in the circumferential direction of the clutch hole324ais separated from the clutch pawl211a, and the one end in the circumferential direction of the clutch hole324bis separated from the clutch pawl211b.

However, the other end in the circumferential direction of the clutch hole324adoes not contact the clutch pawl211a, and the other end in the circumferential direction of the clutch hole324bdoes not contact the clutch pawl211b, either. Therefore, the rotation of the toner coupling321is not transmitted to the agitator20. Accordingly, the agitator20is prevented from being rotated in a direction coincident with the rotational direction of the shutter16from the open position to the closed position.

In this way, in the present embodiment, the clutch holes324a,324band the clutch pawls211a,211bconstitute a clutch for preventing the agitator20from rotating together with the toner coupling321in a case where the shutter16moves from the open position to the closed position.

The IC chip assembly40is positioned at the second end portion12of the casing10.

The IC chip assembly40includes the IC chip41and a chip holder42holding the IC chip41. The IC chip41is fixed to an outer surface of the chip holder42. The IC chip41is configured to store therein various information about the toner cartridge2, such as a volume of toner to be stored in the toner cartridge2and a residual amount of toner. The IC chip41may further store other information indicative of a specification of the toner cartridge2. For example, the IC chip41may store such information as: the kind of toner, the manufacturing serial number of the toner cartridge2, the identification code to certify a genuine product, and devices or models compatible with the toner cartridge2.

The IC chip41has an electrical contact surface411(seeFIG.6). The electrical contact surface411is made from electrically conductive material such as metal. The electrical contact surface411is exposed to the outside on the outer surface of the second end portion12of the casing10. Incidentally, in the IC chip41, only the electrical contact surface411may be exposed to the outside, but a portion of the IC chip41other than the electrical contact surface411may be arranged on a portion of the casing10other than the second end portion12.

The chip holder42is movable in the first direction relative to the casing10. The electrical contact surface411of the IC chip41is also movable in the first direction relative to the casing10in association with the movement of the chip holder42in the first direction.

Further, as indicated by a broken line inFIG.4, the toner cartridge2further includes an IC chip spring43. The IC chip spring43is interposed between the second end portion12of the casing10and the chip holder42. In a case where the drum cartridge3with the toner cartridges2attached thereto is attached to the body frame4, the electrical contact surface411of each IC chip41comes in contact with a corresponding one of the drum contacts91a,91b,91c,91d. At this time, the IC chip spring43urges the chip holder42in the first direction to urge the electrical contact surface411into contact with the corresponding drum contact91a,91b,91c,91d. Thus, stabilized electrical contact between the electrical contact surface411and the corresponding drum contact91a,91b,91c,91dcan be attained.

3. Drum Cartridge

A structure of the drum cartridge3will next be described.

FIGS.16and17are perspective views of the drum cartridge3. The drum cartridge3includes a drum frame50, four developing rollers60, four photosensitive drums70, the four unlock members81, the four relay couplings82, four contact members83, a plurality of tension springs84, and a wiring portion90.

Four of the toner cartridges2are attachable to the drum frame50. The drum frame50includes a first side frame51, a second side frame52, and a third frame53. The first side frame51and the second side frame52are generally flat plate shaped extending perpendicularly to the first direction. The first side frame51and the second side frame52are spaced away from each other in the first direction. The third frame53connects the first side frame51to the second side frame52in the first direction. The four toner cartridges2are inserted in a portion between the first side frame51and the second side frame52.

Each developing roller60is rotatable about a rotation axis (developing axis) extending in the first direction. The developing roller60according to the embodiment is a magnetic roller. The developing roller60has one end portion in the first direction supported by the first side frame51, and another end portion in the first direction supported by the second side frame52. The four developing rollers60are arrayed with one another in the second direction at intervals.

As a result of the attachment of the toner cartridges2to the drum frame50, the toner discharge opening15of each toner cartridge2faces an outer peripheral surface of the corresponding developing roller60. Further, as a result of the attachment of the drum cartridge3to which the toner cartridges2are attached to the body frame4, the developing rollers60become rotatable by driving force supplied from a main body of the image-forming apparatus1. In accordance with the movement of the shutter16from the closed position to the open position, the toner discharge opening15is opened so that the toner in each toner cartridge2is supplied to the outer peripheral surface of the corresponding developing roller60.

Each photosensitive drum70is rotatable abut a rotation axis (drum axis) extending in the first direction. The photosensitive drum70has one end portion in the first direction supported by the first side frame51, and another end portion in the first direction supported by the second side frame52. The four photosensitive drums70are arrayed with one another in the second direction at intervals. The photosensitive drum70has an outer peripheral surface coated with a photosensitive material. A gap is provided between the outer peripheral surface of the developing roller60and the outer peripheral surface of the corresponding photosensitive drum70.

As a result of the attachment of the drum cartridge3with the toner cartridges2attached thereto to the body frame4, the photosensitive drums70become rotatable by driving force supplied from the main body of the image-forming apparatus1. Further, in a printing process, light is irradiated onto the outer peripheral surface of each photosensitive drum70from a light source (not illustrated) positioned at the body frame4, thereby exposing locally the outer peripheral surface of each photosensitive drum70to light. Thereafter, the toner carried on the outer peripheral surface of the corresponding developing roller60is supplied to the light-irradiated portion of the photosensitive drum70. The toner is then transferred from each photosensitive drum70to the printing sheet to form a toner image on the printing sheet.

FIG.18is a partial cross-sectional view of the image-forming apparatus1illustrating a state where the drum cartridge3to which the toner cartridges2are attached is being inserted into the body frame4. As illustrated inFIG.18, the unlock members81, the relay couplings82, the contact members83, and the tension springs84are positioned at the first side frame51.

Each unlock member81is configured to act on the two locking members38a,38bof the corresponding toner cartridge2to release the locking state of the shutter16. The unlock member81is movable in the first direction between a retracted position and an advanced position. The advanced position of the unlock member81is closer to the second side frame52than the retracted position of the unlock member81is to the second side frame52in the first direction.

Each unlock member81includes a first pressing portion811and a second pressing portion812. The first pressing portion811and the second pressing portion812protrude toward the second side frame52. In a state where the unlock member81is at the advanced position while the toner cartridge2is attached to the drum cartridge3, the first pressing portion811presses against the locking protrusion381aof the toner cartridge2, and the second pressing portion812presses against the locking protrusion381bof the toner cartridge2.

The relay coupling82is configured to supply the driving force to the toner coupling321of the corresponding toner cartridge2. The relay coupling82is rotatable about a rotation axis (coupling axis) extending in the first direction. Further, the relay coupling82is movable in the first direction, together with the corresponding unlock member81, between a retracted position and an advanced position. The advanced position of the relay coupling82is closer to the second side frame52than the retracted position of the relay coupling82is to the second side frame52in the first direction. The relay coupling82is connectable to the toner coupling321in a state where the relay coupling82is at the advanced position while the toner cartridge2is attached to the drum cartridge3.

The contact member83is configured to contact the first side plate401of the body frame4upon attachment of the drum cartridge3to the body frame4. The contact member83is movable in the first direction, together with the corresponding unlock member81and relay coupling82, between a retracted position and an advanced position. The advanced position of the contact member83is closer to the second side frame52than the retracted position of the contact member83is to the second side frame52in the first direction. Each contact member83has a sloped surface831which is inclined with respect to the second direction.

The tension springs84urge the corresponding unlock member81, relay coupling82, and contact member83toward the respective retracted positions in the first direction. Each tension spring84has one end in the first direction connected to the first side frame51, and another end in the first direction connected to the corresponding unlock member81. A length in the first direction of the tension spring84is changeable between a stretched state and a shrinking state. The length in the first direction of the tension spring84in the stretched state is greater than that in the shrinking state. Further, the length in the first direction of the tension spring84in the stretched state is greater than a natural length of the tension spring84. The unlock member81, the relay coupling82, and the contact member83are normally urged toward the respective retracted positions from the advanced position because of the shrinking nature of the tension spring84.

The tension spring84is in the shrinking state in a state where the drum cartridge3is not attached to the body frame4. Therefore, the unlock member81, the relay coupling82, and the contact member83are at the retracted positions. In this case, the unlock member81is positioned away from the locking members38a,38bof the corresponding toner cartridge2in the first direction. Specifically, the first pressing portion811is spaced away from the locking member38aof the toner cartridge2in the first direction, and the second pressing portion812is spaced away from the locking member38bof the toner cartridge2in the first direction. Each of the locking members38a,38bof the toner cartridge2is thus at the locking position. Further, at this time, the relay coupling82is positioned away from the toner coupling321. Thus, no driving force is supplied to the toner coupling321.

Upon attachment, to the body frame4, of the drum cartridge3to which the toner cartridge2are attached, a part of the contact member83contacts an inner surface of the body frame4. Specifically, the sloped surface831of the contact member83contacts the first side plate401of the body frame4. As a result, the contact member83moves from the retracted position to the advanced position against the urging force of the tension springs84, and accordingly, the unlock member81is also moved to the advanced position together with the contact member83. Hence, the first pressing portion811of the unlock member81presses the locking protrusion381ain the first direction, and the second pressing portion812of the unlock member81presses the locking protrusion381bin the first direction. Consequently, the locking protrusions381a,381bmove from the locking position to the release position, thereby allowing the shutter16to be unlocked.

Further, the relay coupling82is also moved together with the contact member83from the retracted position to the advanced position in the first direction. Hence, the relay coupling82becomes connected to the toner coupling321. The toner coupling321is thus allowed to rotate in accordance with the rotation of the relay coupling82by the driving force from the main body of the image-forming apparatus1.

As described above, the unlock member81for pressing the locking members38a,38bof the toner cartridge2is not provided in the body frame4of the image-forming apparatus1, but is provided in the drum cartridge3. Therefore, more precise positioning of the unlock member81relative to the locking members38a,38bis attainable than in a comparative configuration where the unlock member81is provided in the body frame4. Accordingly, the unlock member81can accurately presses against the locking members38a,38bof the corresponding toner cartridge2.

Further, in accordance with the attaching operation of the drum cartridge3to the body frame4, the unlock member81moves from the retracted position to the advanced position. That is, the unlock member81can be moved from the retracted position to the advanced position, independent of driving force of a motor in the image-forming apparatus1.

Further, the unlock member81is positioned at the retracted position when the drum cartridge3is not attached to the body frame4. Therefore, the unlock member81does not impede attachment of the toner cartridges2to the drum cartridge3.

Further, the relay coupling82for supplying the driving force to the toner coupling321of the toner cartridge2is not provided in the body frame4of the image-forming apparatus1, but is provided in the drum cartridge3. Therefore, precise positioning of the relay coupling82relative to the toner coupling321is attainable when compared to a case where the relay coupling82is provided in the body frame4. Accordingly, reliable connection of the relay coupling82to the toner coupling321can be attained.

The wiring portion90is configured to electrically connect the IC chip41of each toner cartridge2to the built-in connector403of the image-forming apparatus1.FIG.19is a partial cross-sectional view of the image-forming apparatus1illustrating a state where the drum cartridge3to which the toner cartridges2are attached is being inserted into the body frame4.

As illustrated inFIGS.1and19, the wiring portion90includes the four drum contacts91a,91b,91c,91d, the drum harness92, the drum connector93, four contact holders94a,94b,94c,94d(the contact holders94cand94dare illustrated inFIGS.16and17), and eight contact springs95athrough95h(the contact springs95fthrough95hare not illustrated).

Each of the four drum contacts91a,91b,91c,91dis electrically connected to the drum connector93through the drum harness92. The drum connector93is positioned at the third frame53. The drum connector93makes contact with the built-in connector403of the body frame4upon attachment, to the body frame4, of the drum cartridge3to which the toner cartridges2are attached. The drum connector93and the built-in connector403are thus electrically connected to each other.

The four drum contacts91a-91dare positioned at the second side frame52. The four drum contacts91a-91dare arrayed with one another in the second direction at intervals. The four contact holders94a-94dare positioned at the second side frame52. The four contact holders94a-94dare arrayed with one another in the second direction at intervals.

Specifically, the drum contact91ais supported by the contact holder94a. The drum contact91ais positioned on a surface of the contact holder94a, the surface facing the first side frame51. The drum contact91bis supported by the contact holder94b. The drum contact91bis positioned on a surface of the contact holder94b, the surface facing the first side frame51. The drum contact91cis supported by the contact holder94c. The drum contact91cis positioned on a surface of the contact holder94c, the surface facing the first side frame51. The drum contact91dis supported by the contact holder94d. The drum contact91dis positioned on a surface of the contact holder94d, the surface facing the first side frame51.

The contact holder94ahas an inclined surface941. The inclined surface941is inclined with respect to the second direction. The inclined surface941contacts the second side plate402of the body frame4upon attachment of the drum cartridge3to the body frame4. The contact holder94ahas two protrusions942. The protrusions942protrude in the first direction toward the first side frame51from the facing surface of the contact holder94a. Likewise, each of the contact holders94b-94dhas the inclined surface941and the two protrusions942.

The drum contacts91a-91dand the contact holders94a-94dare movable in the first direction between a separated position and a contacting position. The contacting position of the drum contacts91a-91dis closer to the first side frame51than the separated position is to the first side frame51in the first direction. Further, the contacting position of the contact holders94a-94dis closer to the first side frame51than the separated position of the contact holders94a-94dis to the first side frame51in the first direction.

The two contact springs95a,95bare urging members (tension springs) configured to urge the drum contact91aand the contact holder94ain the direction from the contacting position toward the separated position. The two contact springs95c,95dare urging members (tension springs) configured to urge the drum contact91band the contact holder94bin the direction from the contacting position to the separated position. The two contact springs95e,95fare urging members (tension springs) configured to urge the drum contact91cand the contact holder94cin the direction from the contacting position to the separated position. The two contact springs95g,95hare urging members (tension springs) configured to urge the drum contact91dand the contact holder94din the direction from the contacting position to the separated position.

Each of the contact springs95a,95bhas one end in the first direction connected to the contact holder94a, and another end connected to the second side frame52. Each of the contact springs95c,95dhas one end in the first direction connected to the contact holder94b, and another end connected to the second side frame52. Each of the contact springs95e,95fhas one end in the first direction connected to the contact holder94c, and another end connected to the second side frame52. Each of the contact springs95g,95hhas one end in the first direction connected to the contact holder94d, and another end connected to the second side frame52.

A length in the first direction of each of the contact springs95a-95his changeable between a stretched state and a shrinking state. The length in the first direction of the contact springs95a-95hin the stretched state is greater than that in the shrinking state. Further, the length in the first direction of the contact springs95a-95hin the stretched state is greater than the natural length of the contact springs95a-95h.

The drum contact91aand the contact holder94aare normally urged toward the separated position from the contacting position because of shrinking nature of the contact springs95a,95b. Likewise, the drum contact91band the contact holder94bare normally urged toward the separated position from the contacting position because of shrinking nature of the contact springs95c,95d. The drum contact91cand the contact holder94care normally urged toward the separated position from the contacting position because of shrinking nature of the contact springs95e,95fThe drum contact91dand the contact holder94dare normally urged toward the separated position from the contacting position because of shrinking nature of the contact springs95g,95h.

The contact springs95a-95hare in the shrinking state in a state where the drum cartridge3is not attached to the body frame4. Therefore, the drum contacts91a-91dand the contact holders94a-94dare at the separated position. In this case, the drum contacts91a-91dare positioned apart from the electrical contact surfaces411of the IC chips41of the respective toner cartridges2in the first direction.

In accordance with the attachment, to the body frame4, of the drum cartridge3to which the toner cartridges2are attached, a part of each of the contact holders94a-94dcontacts an inner surface of the body frame4. Specifically, the inclined surface941of each of the contact holders94a-94dis brought into abutment with the second side plate402. Therefore, the contact holders94a-94dmove from the separated position to the contacting position against the urging force of the contact springs95a-95h. Hence, the drum contacts91a-91dare also moved from the separated position to the contacting position by the movement of the contact holders94a-94d.

Accordingly, the drum contacts91a-91dare brought into contact with the electrical contact surfaces411of the IC chips41of the respective toner cartridges2. Consequently, information stored in each IC chip41can be transmitted to the controller5through the drum contacts91a-91d, the drum harness92, the drum connector93, the built-in connector403, and the built-in harness404.

As illustrated inFIGS.4and6, the toner cartridge2has two recessed portions121positioned at the second end portion12of the casing10. Each of the recessed portions121is recessed in the first direction toward the first end portion11of the casing10. In accordance with the movement of the contact holders94a-94dfrom the separated position to the contacting position, the protrusions942of each of the contact holders94a-94dare inserted into the recessed portions121(FIGS.4and6) of the corresponding toner cartridges2. This engagement with the recessed portions121can provide accurate positioning of the contact holders94a-94drelative to the respective toner cartridges2. As a result, accurate electrical connection of the drum contacts91a-91dto the electrical contact surfaces411of the IC chips41of the respective toner cartridges2can be attained.

As described above, in accordance with the attaching operation of the drum cartridge3to the body frame4, the drum contacts91a-91dmove in the first direction from the separated position to the contacting position. Therefore, the movement of the drum contacts91a-91dfrom the separated position to the contacting position can be performed without relying on the driving force of the motor positioned in the main body of the image-forming apparatus1. Further, frictional wearing between the electrical contact surfaces411of the IC chips41and the drum contacts91a-91dcan be restrained at the time of the attachment of the toner cartridges2to the drum cartridge3.

Further, the drum contacts91a-91dand the contact holders94a-94dare at the separated position before attachment of the drum cartridge3to the body frame4. With this structure, the drum contacts91a-91dand the contact holders94a-94ddo not prevent the attachment of the toner cartridges2to the drum frame50.

4. Modifications

While the description has been made in detail with reference to the embodiment, it would be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications and variations may be made thereto. In the following description, structures of the respective modifications different from the structure of the above-described embodiment will particularly be described.

4-1. First Modification

FIG.20is a partial exploded perspective view of a toner cartridge2A according to a first modification. The toner cartridge2A according to the first modification is different from the toner cartridge2of the above-described embodiment in that: the toner cartridge2A does not include the return springs31a,31b; and the shutter16further has a lever168. The lever168extends outward from an outer peripheral surface of the holder161. The lever168is positioned opposite to the shutter plate162with respect to the first axis A1.

FIG.21is a view for description of attachment of the drum cartridge3(to which the toner cartridges2A according to the first modification are attached) to a body frame4A of an image-forming apparatus. As illustrated inFIG.21, the body frame4A includes a third plate405. The third plate405is positioned between the first side plate401and the second side plate402in the first direction. Further, the third plate405faces the levers168of the toner cartridges2A in the third direction in a state where the drum cartridge3having the toner cartridges2A attached thereto is attached to the body frame4A.

FIG.22is a view for description of detachment of the drum cartridge3(to which the toner cartridges2A according to the first modification are attached) from the body frame4A. As illustrated inFIG.22, the drum cartridge3moves in the third direction toward the third plate405. At this time, the shutters16move from the open position to the closed position by the abutment of the levers168on the third plate405. As a result, each toner discharge opening15is closed by the shutter plate162in each of the toner cartridges2A. The drum cartridge3can be pulled out in the second direction, thereafter.

With this arrangement of the first modification, the shutter16can be moved from the open position to the closed position in accordance with the pulling-out operation of the drum cartridge3from the body frame4A without the return springs31a,31b. Hence, the number of components in each toner cartridge2A can be reduced.

4-2. Second Modification

In the depicted embodiment, the shutter16moves from the open position to the closed position by utilizing the shrinking force of the return springs31a,31b(tension springs) generated by the change in length of the return spring31a,31bfrom the second state (providing the longer length than the natural length) to the first state. However, compression springs may be used, instead of the tension springs, so that the shutter16can be moved from the open position to the closed position by the expanding force of the compression springs generated by a change in length of the return springs31a,31bfrom a third state providing a smaller length than the natural length to a fourth state providing a length to restore the natural length.

4-3. Third Modification

In the depicted embodiment, the toner cartridge2includes the four planetary gears33a-33d. However, the number of planetary gears need not be four, but may be from one to three or may be not less than five.

4-4. Fourth Modification

In the above-described embodiment, four of the toner cartridges2are attachable to the single drum cartridge3. However, from one to three toner cartridges2or not less than five toner cartridges2may be attachable to the single drum cartridge3. In accordance with the number of attachable toner cartridges2to the drum cartridge3, the drum cartridge3may include from one to three developing rollers60or not less than five developing rollers60. Similarly, the drum cartridge3may include from one to three photosensitive drums70or not less than five photosensitive drums70. Likewise, the drum cartridge3may include from one to three relay couplings82or not less than five relay couplings82. The drum cartridge3may include from one to three drum contacts91or not less than five drum contacts91.

4-5. Fifth Modification

The toner coupling and the relay coupling may be provided as gears.

4-6. Sixth Modification

The sun gear, the planetary gears, and the ring gear may not have gear teeth, but may have frictional power transmission members made from rubber, for example, instead of the gear teeth.

4-7. Seventh Modification

The toner cartridge2according to the depicted embodiment includes the agitator20as the conveyer member. However, an auger having a helical shape is also available as the conveyer member.

4-8. Other Modifications

Shapes of the components constituting the toner cartridge and the image-forming apparatus need not be limited to those illustrated in the drawings. Further, these components appearing in the embodiment and the above modifications may be suitably replaced by one another, as long as no technological conflicts and contradictions are incurred.

REMARKS

The toner cartridge2,2A is an example of a toner cartridge. The casing10is an example of a casing. The agitator20is an example of a conveyer member. The shutter16is an example of a shutter. The toner coupling321is an example of a toner coupling. The planet carrier322is an example of a planet carrier. The first planetary gear33ais an example of a first planetary gear. The ring gear34is an example of a ring gear. The sun gear351is an example of a sun gear. The rotary plate352is an example of a rotary plate. The boss37a,37bis an example of a boss. The first stopper surface18is an example of a first stopper. The second stopper surface17is an example of a second stopper. The cover36is an example of a cover. The guide groove367a,367bis an example of a guide groove. The communication opening363is an example of a communication opening. The return spring31a,31bis an example of a shutter elastic member. The clutch hole324a,324bis an example of a clutch hole. The clutch pawl211a,211bis an example of a clutch pawl. The locking member38a,38bis an example of a locking member. The locking protrusion381a,381bis an example of a locking protrusion. The locking spring382a,382bis an example of a locking elastic member.