Electrophotographic image forming apparatus, developing apparatus, and coupling member

• US 8,437,669 B2
• Filed: 03/24/2008
• Issued: 05/07/2013
• Est. Priority Date: 03/23/2007
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha (Canon Inc.)
• Original Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha (Canon Inc.)
• Inventors: Morioka, Masanari, Miyabe, Shigeo, Ueno, Takahito
• Primary Examiner(s): Gray, David
• Assistant Examiner(s): GRAY, FRANCIS C
• Application Number:
  US12/053,982
• Publication Number:
  US 20080240796A1
• Time in Patent Office: 1,870 Days
• Field of Search: 399/227, 399/279
• US Class Current: 399/279
• CPC Class Codes: F16D 1/10 Quick-acting couplings in which the parts are connected by simply bringing them together axially
• CPC Class Codes: F16D 1/101 without axial retaining means rotating with the coupling
• CPC Class Codes: F16D 3/04 specially adapted to allow radial displacement, e.g. Oldham couplings
• CPC Class Codes: G03G 15/0121 for developing
• CPC Class Codes: G03G 15/0173 plural rotations of recording member to produce multicoloured copy, e.g. rotating set of developing units G03G15/0163 takes precedence
• CPC Class Codes: G03G 15/08 using a solid developer, e.g. powder developer
• CPC Class Codes: G03G 15/081 characterised by the developer handling means after the supply and before the regulating, e.g. means for preventing developer blocking
• CPC Class Codes: G03G 15/0815 characterised by the developer handling means after the developing zone and before the supply, e.g. developer recovering roller
• CPC Class Codes: G03G 15/0865 Arrangements for supplying new developer
• CPC Class Codes: G03G 15/0896 Arrangements or disposition of the complete developer unit or parts thereof not provided for by groups G03G15/08 - G03G15/0894
• CPC Class Codes: G03G 21/1647 Mechanical connection means
• CPC Class Codes: G03G 21/1676 for the developer unit
• CPC Class Codes: G03G 21/186 Axial couplings
• CPC Class Codes: G03G 2215/0177 Rotating set of developing units
• CPC Class Codes: G03G 2221/1657 transmitting mechanical drive power

Abstract

A developing device used with an image forming apparatus has a driving shaft with a rotating force applying portion, and a movable member on which the developing device is mountable. The developing device includes a developing roller and a coupling member for transmitting a rotating force to the developing roller. The coupling member includes a rotating force receiving portion and a rotating force transmitting portion for transmitting a force received through the rotating force receiving portion to the developing roller. The coupling member can be in a rotational force transmitting angular position, a pre-engagement angular position, and a disengaging angular position. In response to movement of the movable member the coupling member moves from the pre-engagement angular position to the rotational force transmitting angular position, and by moving from the rotational force transmitting angular position to the disengaging angular position the coupling member is disengaged from the driving shaft.

Claims

1. A developing cartridge comprising:

a casing;

a developer roller having a longitudinal axis L1, the developer roller being rotatably supported in the casing to permit rotation about the axis L1; and

a coupling member having a longitudinal axis L2 and having (i) a rotational force transmitting portion for transmitting a rotational force to the developer roller, (ii) a rotational force receiving portion, and (iii) a connecting portion that connects the rotational force receiving portion to the rotational force transmitting portion,

wherein the coupling member is movable between (i) a first position in which the axis L2 of the coupling member is substantially parallel to and offset from the axis L1 of the developer roller so that the axis L2 does not pass through the developer roller, (ii) a second position in which the axis L2 is inclined with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position, (iii) and a third position in which the axis L2 is inclined with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position and in a direction opposite to the direction the coupling member is inclined when in the second position.

2. A developing cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising an urging member that biases the coupling member to the second position.

3. A developing cartridge according to claim 2, wherein the urging member is a torsion spring that contacts the connecting portion of the coupling member.

4. A developing cartridge according to claim 1, wherein, when the coupling member is in the second position or the third position, the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined from about 20 degrees to about 60 degrees with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position.

5. A developing cartridge according to claim 1, wherein an angle at which the axis L2 is inclined when the coupling member is in the second position is different than the angle at which the axis L2 is inclined when the coupling member is in the third position.

6. A developing cartridge according claim 1, wherein the rotational force receiving portion comprises a surface that is substantially perpendicular to the axis L2, and exactly two projections extending from the surface at diametrically opposed positions.

7. A developing cartridge according to claim 6, wherein each projection has a tip defined by at least one slanted surface.

8. A developing cartridge according to claim 6, wherein the surface includes an opening to a recess, with the recess including a surface facing away from the rotational force transmitting portion.

9. A developing cartridge according to claim 6, further comprising:

a first gear; and

a second gear in meshing engagement with the first gear,

wherein the first gear is connected to the developer roller and the second gear is connected to the coupling member.

10. A developing cartridge according to claim 9, wherein the second gear is connected to the coupling member such that the coupling member can partially rotate about the axis L2 without transmitting a force to the second gear.

11. A developing cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the coupling member can be inclined in substantially any direction relative to the first position.

12. A developing cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the coupling member is made from a resin material.

13. A developing cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the coupling member is made from a metallic material.

110. A developing cartridge according to claim 6, wherein the surface has a recess which opens in a direction away from the rotational force transmitting portion.

14. An image forming apparatus cartridge, comprising:

a casing;

a rotatable structure having a longitudinal axis L1, the rotatable structure being rotatably supported in the casing to permit rotation about the axis L1; and

a coupling member having a longitudinal axis L2 and having (i) a rotational force for transmitting a rotational force to the rotatable structure, (ii) a rotational force receiving portion, and (iii) a connecting portion that connects the rotational force receiving portion to the rotational force transmitting portion,

wherein the coupling member is movable between (i) a first position in which the axis L2 of the coupling member is substantially parallel to and offset from the axis L1 of the rotatable structure so that the axis L2 does not pass through the rotatable structure when the coupling member in the first position, (ii) a second position in which the axis L2 is inclined with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position, (iii) and a third position in which the axis L2 is inclined with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position and in a direction opposite to the direction the coupling member is inclined when in the second position.

15. The cartridge according to claim 14, further comprising a developer chamber, and wherein the rotatable structure is a developer roller.

16. A developing cartridge comprising:

a casing;

a developer roller having a longitudinal axis L1, the developer roller being rotatably supported in the casing to permit rotation about the axis L1; and

a coupling member having (i) a rotational force transmitting portion for transmitting a rotational force to the developer roller, (ii) a rotational force receiving portion, and (iii) a connecting portion that connects the rotational force receiving portion to the rotational force transmitting portion,

wherein the rotational force receiving portion comprises (i) a surface substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis L2 of the coupling member, (ii) an opening in the surface to a recess, and (iii) two projections extending from the surface in a direction substantially parallel to the axis L2, with the projections extending from opposed positions on the surface, and

wherein the recess includes a surface that is slanted with respect to the axis L2.

17. A developing cartridge according to claim 16, further comprising:

a first gear; and

a second gear in meshing engagement with the first gear,

wherein the first gear is connected to the developing roller and the second gear is connected to the coupling member.

18. A developing cartridge according to claim 17, wherein the second gear is connected to the coupling member such that the coupling member can partially rotate about the axis L2 without transmitting a force to the second gear.

19. A developing cartridge according to claim 16, further comprising an urging member contacting the connecting portion of the coupling member.

20. A developing cartridge according to claim 19, wherein the urging member is a torsion spring.

21. A developing cartridge according to claim 16, wherein the recess has a conical shape.

22. A developing cartridge according to claim 16, wherein the coupling member is made from a resin material.

23. A developing cartridge according to claim 16, wherein the coupling member is made from a metallic material.

24. A developing cartridge according to claim 16, wherein each projection has a tip defined by at least one slanted surface.

48. A developing cartridge according to claim 16, wherein the recess has a rotationally symmetric shape.

49. A developing cartridge according to claim 16, wherein the recess has a semi-spherical shape.

50. A developing cartridge according to claim 16, wherein the recess is coaxial with the axis L2.

51. A developing cartridge according to claim 16, wherein the slanted surface of the recess forms an angle of about 60°

with respect to the axis L2.

52. A developing cartridge according to claim 16, wherein the maximum outer diameter of the force receiving portion is about 15 mm.

53. A developing cartridge according to claim 16, wherein the force receiving portion has at least one pair of projections extending substantially in the same direction as axis L2 away from the connecting portion, and wherein the diameter of an imaginary circle tangent to the inner surface of each of the projections is about 10 mm.

54. A developing cartridge according to claim 16, wherein the coupling member is formed from at least one of a resin material, a fiber-reinforced resin material, and a metallic material.

55. A developing cartridge according to 16, wherein the diameter of an imaginary circle that is tangent to the inner surface of each or the projections is greater than a maximum dimension of the connecting portion in a direction perpendicular to the axis L2.

25. A developing cartridge comprising:

a casing;

a developer roller having a longitudinal axis L1, the developer roller being rotatably supported in the casing to permit rotation about the axis L1;

a coupling member having (i) a rotational force transmitting portion for transmitting a rotational force to the developer roller, (ii) a rotational force receiving portion, and (iii) a connecting portion that connects the rotational force receiving portion to the rotational force transmitting portion; and

an urging member that contacts the coupling member,

wherein the coupling member is movable between a first position, and a second position in which the axis L2 is inclined with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position, and

wherein the urging member biases the coupling member to the second position.

26. A developing cartridge according to claim 25, wherein the urging member is a torsion spring.

27. A developing cartridge according to claim 25, the force receiving portion comprises at least one pair of projections extending substantially in the same direction as the axis L2 away from the connecting portion.

28. A developing cartridge according to claim 25, the force receiving portion comprises a recess having a surface facing away from the rotational force transmitting portion.

29. A developing cartridge according to claim 25, further comprising:

a first gear; and

a second gear in meshing engagement with the first gear,

wherein the first gear is connected to the developer roller and the second gear is connected to the coupling member.

30. A developing cartridge according to claim 29, wherein the second gear is connected to the coupling member such that the coupling member can partially rotate about the axis L2 without transmitting a force to the second gear.

31. A developing cartridge according to claim 25, wherein the coupling member is made from a resin material.

32. A developing cartridge according to claim 25, wherein the coupling member is made from a metallic material.

56. A developing cartridge according to claim 28, wherein the recess has a rotationally symmetric shape.

57. A developing cartridge according to claim 28, wherein the recess has one of a semi-spherical shape and a conical shape.

111. A developing cartridge according to claim 25, wherein the force receiving portion comprises a recess facing away from the rotational force transmitting portion.

33. A developing cartridge comprising:

a casing;

a developer roller having a longitudinal axis L1, the developer roller being rotatably supported in the casing to permit rotation about the axis L1;

a coupling member having a longitudinal axis L2 and having (i) a rotational force transmitting portion for transmitting a rotational force to the developer roller, (ii) a rotational force receiving portion, and (iii) a connecting portion that connects the rotational force receiving portion to the rotational force transmitting portion; and

a force transmitting structure, having an axis L3, connected to the developer roller and to the coupling member,

wherein the coupling member can be inclined in any direction relative to the axis L3, and the coupling member can partially rotate about the axis L2 without transmitting a force to the force transmitting structure.

34. A developing cartridge according to claim 33, wherein the force transmitting structure is a gear.

35. A developing cartridge according to claim 33, wherein the force transmitting structure is a member associated with an end of the developer roller.

36. A developing cartridge according to claim 33, wherein the force transmitting structure is a shaft of the developer roller.

37. A developing cartridge according to claim 33, wherein the coupling member is made from a resin material.

38. A developing cartridge according to claim 33, wherein the coupling member is made from a metallic material.

39. A developing cartridge comprising:

a casing;

a developer roller having a longitudinal axis L1 and a shaft with an end extending from the developer roller, the developer roller being rotatably supported in the casing to permit rotation about the axis L1; and

a coupling member having (i) a rotational force transmitting portion for transmitting a rotational force to the developer roller via the shaft, (ii) a rotational force receiving portion, and (iii) a connecting portion that connects the rotational force receiving portion to the rotational force transmitting portion;

wherein the coupling member is movable between (i) a first position, (ii) a second position in which the axis L2 is inclined from the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position, (iii) and a third position in which the coupling member is inclined from position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position and in a direction opposite to the direction the coupling member is inclined in the second position,

wherein the coupling member is linearly movable in the direction of axis L2,

wherein the force receiving portion comprises one pair of projections extending substantially in the same direction as the axis L2 away from the connecting portion, each projection having the same length L and having a tip,

wherein, when the coupling member moves from the first position to either the second position or the third position, the tip of one projection moves at least about the distance L in the direction of axis L2 through the combination of linear movement and inclining of the coupling member, and

wherein, when the coupling member is in the second position or third position, at least one of the projections is farther from the developer roller than the end of the shaft is from the developer roller.

40. A developing cartridge according to claim 39, wherein the developing cartridge further comprises a spring biasing the coupling member away from the casing along the axis L2.

41. A developing cartridge according to claim 39, wherein the force receiving portion of the coupling member has a recess, the recess being coaxial with the axis L2.

42. A developing cartridge according to claim 39, wherein each projection has a tip defined by at least one slanted surface.

43. A developing cartridge according to claim 39, wherein the coupling member is made from a resin material.

44. A developing cartridge according to claim 39, wherein the coupling member is made from a metallic material.

58. A developing cartridge according to claim 39, wherein the tips of the projections are defined by at least one slanted surface.

59. A developing cartridge according to claim 58, wherein the tips of the projections are defined by at least two slanted surfaces.

60. A developing cartridge according to claim 39, wherein the tip of each projection is defined by the at least one slanted surface and a surface perpendicular to the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position.

61. A developing cartridge according to claim 39, wherein a maximum angle of inclination of the axis L2 with respect to the axis L1 is less than 35 degrees.

62. A developing cartridge according to 39, wherein the diameter of an imaginary circle that is tangent to the inner surface of each or the projections is greater than a maximum dimension of the connecting portion in a direction perpendicular to the axis L2.

63. A developing cartridge according to claim 41, wherein the recess has one of a semi-spherical shape and a conical shape.

64. A developing cartridge according to claim 41, wherein the recess has a rotationally symmetric shape.

45. A developing cartridge comprising:

a casing,

a developer roller having a longitudinal axis L1, the developer roller being rotatably supported in the casing to permit rotation about the axis L1; and

a coupling member having (i) a rotational force transmitting portion associated with the developer roller so as to transmit a rotational force to the developer roller, (ii) a rotational force receiving portion, and (iii) a connecting portion that connects the rotational force receiving portion to the rotational force transmitting portion,

wherein the coupling member is movable between a first position, and a second position in which the axis L2 is inclined from the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position,

wherein the rotational force receiving portion comprises two projections extending away from the connecting portion in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L2, each projection having a tip defined by at least one surface slanted with respect to the longitudinal axis L2 and being a part of the projection farthest from the developer roller when the coupling member is in the first position, and

wherein, when the coupling member is in the first position, the tip of each projection is the same distance from the casing.

46. A developing cartridge according to claim 45, wherein the rotational force receiving portion comprises a surface substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis L2 of the coupling member, and wherein the projections extend from opposed positions on the surface.

47. An image forming apparatus comprising:

a developing cartridge including

a casing;

a developer roller having a longitudinal axis L1, the developer roller being rotatably supported in the casing to permit rotation about the axis L1; and

a coupling member having a longitudinal axis L2 and having (i) a rotational force transmitting portion for transmitting a rotational force to the developer roller, (ii) a rotational force receiving portion, and (iii) a connecting portion that connects the rotational force receiving portion to the rotational force transmitting portion,

wherein the coupling member is movable between (i) a first position in which the axis L2 of the coupling member is substantially parallel to and offset from the axis L1 of the developer roller so that the axis L2 does not pass through developer roller, (ii) a second position in which the axis L2 is inclined with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position, (iii) and a third position in which the axis L2 is inclined with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position and in a direction opposite to the direction the coupling member is inclined when in the second position;

a driving motor; and

a driving shaft engageable with the rotational force receiving portion of the coupling member of the developing cartridge.

65. A developing cartridge comprising:

a casing;

a developer roller having a longitudinal axis L1, the developer roller being rotatably supported in the casing to permit rotation about the axis L1; and

a coupling member having (i) a rotational force transmitting portion for transmitting a rotational force to the developer roller, (ii) a rotational force receiving portion, and (iii) a connecting portion that connects the rotational force receiving portion to the rotational force transmitting portion,

wherein the rotational force receiving portion comprises (i) a surface substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis L2 of the coupling member, (ii) an opening in the surface to a recess, and (iii) two projections extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L2 away from the surface, with the projections extending from opposed positions on the surface,

wherein the recess includes a surface that expands in size as the distance from the developer roller increases.

66. A developing cartridge according to claim 65, further comprising:

a first gear;

a second gear in meshing engagement with the first gear,

wherein the first gear is connected to the developer roller and the second gear is connected to the coupling member.

67. A developing cartridge according to claim 65, wherein the second gear is connected to the coupling member such that the coupling member can partially rotate about the axis L2 relative to the second gear.

68. A developing cartridge according to claim 65, further comprising an urging member contacting the connecting portion of the coupling member.

69. A developing cartridge according to claim 68, wherein the urging member is a torsion spring.

70. A developing cartridge according to claim 65, wherein the recess has one of a semi-spherical shape and a conical shape.

71. A developing cartridge according to claim 65, wherein the coupling member is formed from at least one of a resin material, a fiber-reinforced resin material and a metallic material.

72. A developing cartridge according to claim 65, wherein each projection has a tip defined by at least one slanted surface.

73. A developing cartridge according to claim 65, wherein, if the distance along the axis L2 between a portion of the recess closest to the developer roller and a plane that touches the tips of the projections is defined as distance D, when the coupling member moves from the first position to the second position or the third position the tip of one projection moves at least about the distance D closer to the developer roller along the axis L2, than when the coupling member is in the first position.

74. A developing cartridge according to claim 65, wherein the coupling member is linearly movable toward the developer roller in the direction of the axis L1, and wherein when the coupling member moves from the first position to the second position, the tip of the one projection moves the distance D through a combination of linear movement and inclining of the coupling member.

75. A developing cartridge according to claim 74, wherein the process cartridge further comprises a spring for biasing the coupling member away from the developer roller along the axis L1.

76. A developing cartridge according to claim 65, wherein the rotational force transmitting portion, the rotational force receiving portion, and the connecting portion are integrally formed.

77. A developing cartridge according to claim 65, wherein the rotational force transmitting portion, the rotational force receiving portion, and the connecting portion are separate parts connected together.

78. A developing cartridge according to claim 65, wherein the recess has a rotationally symmetric shape.

79. A developing cartridge according to claim 65, wherein the recess is coaxial with the axis L2.

80. A developing cartridge according to claim 65, wherein the expanding surface of the recess forms an angle of about 60°

with respect to the axis L2.

81. A developing cartridge according to claim 65, wherein a maximum outer diameter of the force receiving portion is about 15 mm.

82. A developing cartridge according to claim 65, wherein the diameter of an imaginary circle tangent to the inner surface of each of the projections is about 10 mm.

83. A developing cartridge according to 65, wherein the diameter of an imaginary circle that is tangent to the inner surface of each or the projections is greater than a maximum dimension of the connecting portion in a direction perpendicular to the axis L2.

84. A developing cartridge comprising:

a casing,

a developer roller having a longitudinal axis L1, the developer roller being rotatably supported in the casing to permit rotation about the axis L1; and

a coupling member having (i) a rotational force transmitting portion associated with the developer roller so as to transmit a rotational force to the developer roller, (ii) a rotational force receiving portion, and (iii) a connecting portion that connects the rotational force receiving portion to the rotational force transmitting portion,

wherein the coupling member is movable between a first position, and a second position in which the axis L2 is inclined from the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position,

wherein the rotational force receiving portion comprises two projections extending away from the connecting portion in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L2, each projection having a tip that is narrower than a portion of the projection closer to the developer roller when the coupling member is in the first position; and

wherein, when the coupling member is in the first position, the tip of each projection is the same distance from the casing.

85. A developing cartridge according to claim 84, wherein the rotational force receiving portion comprises a surface substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis L2 of the coupling member, and

wherein the projections extend from opposed positions on the surface.

86. A developing cartridge comprising:

a casing;

a developer roller having an axis L1, the developer roller being rotatably supported in the casing to permit rotation about the axis L1; and

a coupling member having an axis L2, the coupling member having (i) a first end portion operatively connected with the developer roller, (ii) a second end portion, and (iii) a connecting portion connecting the first end portion and the second end portion,

wherein the coupling member is movable between a first position in which the axis L2 of the coupling member is substantially parallel to and offset from the axis L1 of the developer roller, and a second position in which the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined with respect to the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position, and

wherein a maximum angle of inclination of the axis L2 with respect to the axis L1 is about 20 degrees to about 60 degrees.

87. A developing cartridge according to claim 86, wherein said first end portion is capable of transmitting a rotational force to the developer roller.

88. A developing cartridge according to claim 86, wherein, when the coupling member is in the second position, a portion of the axis L2 at the second end portion side of the coupling member is nearer to the axis L1 than a portion of the axis L2 at the first end portion side of the coupling member.

89. A developing cartridge according to claim 88, wherein the coupling member is movable to a third position in which the axis L2 is inclined with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position and in a direction opposite to the direction in which the coupling member is inclined when in the second position.

90. A developing cartridge according to claim 89, wherein, when the coupling member is in the third position, a portion of the axis L2 at the first end portion side of the coupling member is nearer to the axis L1 than a portion of the axis L2 at the second end portion side of the coupling member.

91. A developing cartridge according to claim 90, wherein the casing comprises a guide portion capable of guiding the coupling member toward the second position.

92. A developing cartridge according to claim 91, further comprising a contact portion capable of contacting the coupling member to position the coupling member at the second position.

93. A developing cartridge according to claim 92, wherein the casing provides the contact portion.

94. A developing cartridge according to claim 90, wherein when the coupling member is in the third position, the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined from about 20 degrees to about 60 degrees with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position.

95. A developing cartridge according claim 90, wherein the second end portion comprises a surface that is substantially perpendicular to the axis L2, and two projections extending from the surface at diametrically opposed positions.

96. A developing cartridge according to claim 95, wherein the surface includes an opening to a recess, with the recess including a surface facing away from the first end portion.

97. A developing cartridge according to claim 86, wherein the projection includes a surface at least a portion of which overhangs a portion of the second end portion.

98. A developing cartridge according to claim 90, further comprising:

a first gear connected to the developer roller; and

a second gear connected to the coupling member and in meshing engagement with the first gear.

99. A developing cartridge according to claim 98, wherein the second gear is connected to the coupling member such that the coupling member can partially rotate about the axis L2 without transmitting a force to the second gear.

100. A developing cartridge according to claim 99, wherein the second gear has a hollow portion, and at least part of the first end portion of the coupling member is in the hollow portion of the second gear.

101. A developing cartridge according to claim 100, wherein at least the part of the first end portion of the coupling member is supported by the hollow portion.

102. A developing cartridge according to claim 101, wherein the first end portion of the coupling member comprises substantially a spherical shape.

103. A developing cartridge according to claim 102, wherein the connecting portion includes substantially a shaft along the axis L2.

104. A developing cartridge according to claim 90, further comprising an urging member that biases the coupling member to the second position.

105. A developing cartridge according to claim 104, wherein the urging member is a torsion spring that contacts the connecting portion of the coupling member.

106. A developing cartridge according to claim 90, wherein the coupling member can be inclined in substantially any direction relative to the first position.

107. A developing cartridge according to claim 90, wherein the coupling member is made from a resin material.

108. A developing cartridge according to claim 90, wherein the resin material is polyacetal.

109. A developing cartridge according to claim 90, wherein the coupling member is made from a metallic material.

112. A developing cartridge according to claim 95, wherein the surface has a recess which opens in a direction away from the first end portion.

113. A developing cartridge according to claim 95, wherein each projection includes a surface at least a portion of which overhangs the surface of the second end portion.

114. A developing cartridge comprising:

a developer roller having an axis L1, the developer roller being rotatable about the axis L1; and

a coupling member having an axis L2, the coupling member having (i) a first end portion operatively connected with the developer roller, (ii) a second end portion, and (iii) a connecting portion connecting the first end portion and the second end portion,

wherein the coupling member is movable between a first position in which the axis L2 of the coupling member is substantially parallel to and offset from the axis L1 of the developer roller, and a second position in which the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined with respect to the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position, and

wherein when the coupling member is in the second position, the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined from about 20 degrees to about 60 degrees with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position.

115. A developing cartridge according to claim 114, wherein said first end portion is capable of transmitting a rotational force to the developer roller.

116. A developing cartridge according to claim 115, wherein, when the coupling member is in the second position, a portion of the axis L2 at the second end portion side of the coupling member is nearer to the axis L1 than a portion of the axis L2 at the first end portion side of the coupling member.

117. A developing cartridge according to claim 116, wherein the coupling member is movable to a third position in which the axis L2 is inclined with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position and in a direction opposite to the direction in which the coupling member is inclined when in the second position.

118. A developing cartridge according to claim 117, wherein, when the coupling member is in the third position, a portion of the axis L2 at the first end portion side of the coupling member is nearer to the axis L1 than a portion of the axis L2 at the second end portion side of the coupling member.

119. A developing cartridge according to claim 118, further comprising a casing in which the developer roller is rotatably supported.

120. A developing cartridge according to claim 119, wherein the casing comprises a bearing member rotatably supporting the developer roller.

121. A developing cartridge according to claim 120, wherein the casing comprising a contact portion capable of contacting the coupling member to position the coupling member at the second position.

122. A developing cartridge according to claim 121, wherein the casing comprises a guide portion capable of guiding the coupling member toward the second position.

123. A developing cartridge according to claim 118, wherein when the coupling member is in the third position, the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined from about 20 degrees to about 60 degrees with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position.

124. A developing cartridge according claim 118, wherein the second end portion comprises a surface that is substantially perpendicular to the axis L2, and two projections extending from the surface at diametrically opposed positions.

125. A developing cartridge according to claim 124, wherein the surface includes an opening to a recess, with the recess including a surface facing away from the first end portion.

126. A developing cartridge according to claim 124, wherein each projection includes a surface at least a portion of which overhangs a portion of the second end portion.

127. A developing cartridge according to claim 118, further comprising:

a first gear connected to the developer roller; and

a second gear connected to the coupling member and in meshing engagement with the first gear.

128. A developing cartridge according to claim 127, wherein the second gear is connected to the coupling member such that the coupling member can partially rotate about the axis L2 without transmitting a force to the second gear.

129. A developing cartridge according to claim 128, wherein the second gear has a hollow portion, and at least part of the first end portion of the coupling member is in the hollow portion of the second gear.

130. A developing cartridge according to claim 129, wherein at least the part of the first end portion of the coupling member is supported by the hollow portion.

131. A developing cartridge according to claim 130, wherein the first end portion of the coupling member comprises substantially a spherical shape.

132. A developing cartridge according to claim 131, wherein the connecting portion includes substantially a shaft along the axis L2.

133. A developing cartridge according to claim 118, further comprising an urging member that biases the coupling member to the second position.

134. A developing cartridge according to claim 133, wherein the urging member is a torsion spring that contacts the connecting portion of the coupling member.

135. A developing cartridge according to claim 118, wherein the coupling member can be inclined in substantially any direction relative to the first position.

136. A developing cartridge according to claim 118, wherein the coupling member is made from a resin material.

137. A developing cartridge according to claim 136, wherein the resin material is polyacetal.

138. A developing cartridge according to claim 118, wherein the coupling member is made from a metallic material.

139. A developing cartridge according to claim 125, wherein the surface has a recess which opens in a direction away from the first end portion.

140. A developing cartridge according to claim 124, wherein each projection includes a surface at least a portion of which overhangs the surface of the second end portion.

141. A developing cartridge comprising:

a developer roller having an axis L1, the developer roller being rotatable about the axis L1; and

a coupling member having an axis L2, the coupling member having (i) a first end portion operatively connected with the developer roller, (ii) a second end portion, and (iii) a connecting portion connecting the first end portion and the second end portion,

wherein the coupling member is movable between a first position in which the axis L2 of the coupling member is substantially parallel to and offset from the axis L1 of the developer roller, and a second position in which the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined with respect to the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position, and

wherein when the coupling member is in the second position, the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined at least about 20 degrees with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position.

142. A developing cartridge according to claim 141, wherein said first end portion is capable of transmitting a rotational force to the developer roller.

143. A developing cartridge according to claim 142, wherein, when the coupling member is in the second position, a portion of the axis L2 at the second end portion side of the coupling member is nearer to the axis L1 than a portion of the axis L2 at the first end portion side of the coupling member.

144. A developing cartridge according to claim 143, wherein the coupling member is movable to a third position in which the axis L2 is inclined with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position and in a direction opposite to the direction in which the coupling member is inclined when in the second position.

145. A developing cartridge according to claim 144, wherein, when the coupling member is in the third position, a portion of the axis L2 at the first end portion side of the coupling member is nearer to the axis L1 than a portion of the axis L2 at the second end portion side of the coupling member.

146. A developing cartridge according to claim 145, further comprising a casing in which the developer roller is rotatably supported.

147. A developing cartridge according to claim 146, wherein the casing comprises a bearing member rotatably supporting the developer roller.

148. A developing cartridge according to claim 147, wherein the casing comprising a contact portion capable of contacting the coupling member to position the coupling member at the second position.

149. A developing cartridge according to claim 148, wherein the casing comprises a guide portion capable of guiding the coupling member toward the second position.

150. A developing cartridge according to claim 145, wherein when the coupling member is in the third position, the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined at least about 20 degrees with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position.

151. A developing cartridge according claim 145, wherein the second end portion comprises a surface that is substantially perpendicular to the axis L2, and two projections extending from the surface at diametrically opposed positions.

152. A developing cartridge according to claim 151, wherein the surface includes an opening to a recess, with the recess including a surface facing away from the first end portion.

153. A developing cartridge according to claim 151, wherein each projection includes a surface at least a portion of which overhangs a portion of the second end portion.

154. A developing cartridge according to claim 145, further comprising:

a first gear connected to the developer roller; and

a second gear connected to the coupling member and in meshing engagement with the first gear.

155. A developing cartridge according to claim 154, wherein the second gear is connected to the coupling member such that the coupling member can partially rotate about the axis L2 without transmitting a force to the second gear.

156. A developing cartridge according to claim 155, wherein the second gear has a hollow portion, and at least part of the first end portion of the coupling member is in the hollow portion of the second gear.

157. A developing cartridge according to claim 156, wherein at least the part of the first end portion of the coupling member is supported by the hollow portion.

158. A developing cartridge according to claim 157, wherein the first end portion of the coupling member comprises substantially a spherical shape.

159. A developing cartridge according to claim 158, wherein the connecting portion includes substantially a shaft along the axis L2.

160. A developing cartridge according to claim 145, further comprising an urging member that biases the coupling member to the second position.

161. A developing cartridge according to claim 160, wherein the urging member is a torsion spring that contacts the connecting portion of the coupling member.

162. A developing cartridge according to claim 145, wherein the coupling member can be inclined in substantially any direction relative to the first position.

163. A developing cartridge according to claim 145, wherein the coupling member is made from a resin material.

164. A developing cartridge according to claim 163, wherein the resin material is polyacetal.

165. A developing cartridge according to claim 145, wherein the coupling member is made from a metallic material.

166. A developing cartridge according to claim 151, wherein the surface has a recess which opens in a direction away from the first end portion.

167. A developing cartridge according to claim 151, wherein each projection includes a surface at least a portion of which overhangs the surface of the second end portion.

168. A developing cartridge according to claim 141, wherein, when the coupling member is in the second position, the axis L2 of the coupling member is not greater than about 60 degrees with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position.

169. A developing cartridge according to claim 150, wherein, when the coupling member is in the third position, the axis L2 of the coupling member is not greater than about 60 degrees with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position.

170. A developing cartridge comprising:

a casing;

a developer roller having an axis L1, the developer roller being rotatably supported in the casing to permit rotation about the axis L1; and

a coupling member having an axis L2, the coupling member having (i) a first end portion operatively connected with the developer roller, (ii) a second end portion, and (iii) a connecting portion connecting the first end portion and the second end portion,

wherein the coupling member is movable between a first position in which the axis L2 of the coupling member is substantially parallel to and offset from the axis L1 of the developer roller, and a second position in which the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined with respect to the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position, and

wherein the maximum angle of inclination of the axis L2 with respect to the axis L1 is limited by contact between the coupling member and the casing.

171. A developing cartridge according to claim 170, wherein said first end portion is capable of transmitting a rotational force to the developer roller.

172. A developing cartridge according to claim 171, further comprising a fixed contact portion that is fixed to the casing, wherein the maximum angle of inclination of the coupling member is limited by contact between the coupling member and the fixed contact portion.

173. A developing cartridge according to claim 170, wherein the casing comprises a bearing member rotatably supporting the developer roller.

174. A developing cartridge according to claim 170, wherein the casing comprises a guide portion capable of guiding the coupling member toward the second position.

175. A developing cartridge according claim 170, wherein the second end portion comprises a surface that is substantially perpendicular to the axis L2, and two projections extending from the surface at diametrically opposed positions.

176. A developing cartridge according to claim 175, wherein the surface has a recess which opens in a direction away from the first end portion.

177. A developing cartridge according to claim 175, wherein each projection includes a surface at least a portion of which overhangs a portion of the second end portion.

178. A developing cartridge according to claim 170, further comprising:

a first gear connected to the developer roller; and

a second gear connected to the coupling member and in meshing engagement with the first gear.

179. A developing cartridge according to claim 178, wherein the second gear is connected to the coupling member such that the coupling member can partially rotate about the axis L2 without transmitting a force to the second gear.

180. A developing cartridge according to claim 179, wherein the second gear has a hollow portion, and at least part of the first end portion of the coupling member is in the hollow portion of the second gear.

181. A developing cartridge according to claim 180, wherein at least the part of the first end portion of the coupling member is supported by the hollow portion.

182. A developing cartridge according to claim 181, wherein the first end portion of the coupling member comprises substantially a spherical shape.

183. A developing cartridge according to claim 182, wherein the connecting portion includes substantially a shaft along the axis L2.

184. A developing cartridge according to claim 170, further comprising an urging member that biases the coupling member to the second position.

185. A developing cartridge according to claim 184, wherein the urging member is a torsion spring that contacts the connecting portion of the coupling member.

186. A developing cartridge according to claim 170, wherein the coupling member can be inclined in substantially any direction relative to the first position.

187. A developing cartridge according to claim 170, wherein the coupling member is made from a resin material.

188. A developig cartridge according to claim 187, wherein the resin material is polyacetal.

189. A developing cartridge according to claim 170, wherein the coupling member is made from a metallic material.

190. A developing cartridge according to claim 175, wherein each projection includes a surface at least a portion of which overhangs the surface of the second end portion.

191. A developing cartridge according to claim 170, wherein the maximum angle of inclination of the coupling member is from about 20 degrees to about 60 degrees with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position.

192. A developing cartridge according to claim 172, wherein the casing comprises a bearing member rotatably supporting the developer roller.

193. A developing cartridge according to claim 172, wherein the casing comprises a guide portion capable of guiding the coupling member toward the second position.

194. A developing cartridge according claim 172, wherein the second end portion comprises a surface that is substantially perpendicular to the axis L2, and two projections extending from the surface at diametrically opposed positions.

195. A developing cartridge according to claim 194, wherein the surface has a recess which opens in a direction away from the first end portion.

196. A developing cartridge according to claim 194, wherein each projection includes a surface at least a portion of which overhangs a portion of the second end portion.

197. A developing cartridge according to claim 172, further comprising:

a first gear connected to the developer roller; and

a second gear connected to the coupling member and in meshing engagement with the first gear.

198. A developing cartridge according to claim 197, wherein the second gear is connected to the coupling member such that the coupling member can partially rotate about the axis L2 without transmitting a force to the second gear.

199. A developing cartridge according to claim 198, wherein the second gear has a hollow portion, and at least part of the first end portion of the coupling member is in the hollow portion of the second gear.

200. A developing cartridge according to claim 199, wherein at least the part of the first end portion of the coupling member is supported by the hollow portion.

201. A developing cartridge according to claim 200, wherein the first end portion of the coupling member comprises substantially a spherical shape.

202. A developing cartridge according to claim 201, wherein the connecting portion includes substantially a shaft along the axis L2.

203. A developing cartridge according to claim 172, further comprising an urging member that biases the coupling member to the second position.

204. A developing cartridge according to claim 202, wherein the urging member is a torsion spring that contacts the connecting portion of the coupling member.

205. A developing cartridge according to claim 172, wherein the coupling member can be inclined in substantially any direction relative to the first position.

206. A developing cartridge according to claim 172, wherein the coupling member is made from a resin material.

207. A developing cartridge according to claim 206, wherein the resin material is polyacetal.

208. A developing cartridge according to claim 172, wherein the coupling member is made from a metallic material.

209. A developing cartridge according to claim 194, wherein each projection includes a surface at least a portion of which overhangs the surface of the second end portion.

210. A developing cartridge according to claim 172, wherein the maximum angle of inclination of the coupling member is from about 20 degrees to about 60 degrees with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position.

211. A developing cartridge comprising:

a developer roller having an axis L1, the developer roller being rotatable about the axis L1; and

a coupling member having an axis L2, the coupling member having (i) a first end portion operatively connected with the developer roller, (ii) a second end portion, and (iii) a connecting portion connecting the first end portion and the second end portion,

wherein the coupling member is movable between a first position in which the axis L2 of the coupling member is substantially parallel to and offset from the axis L1 of the developer roller, and a second position in which the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined with respect to the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position and in which a portion of the axis L2 at the second end portion side of the coupling member is nearer to the axis L1 than a portion of the axis L2 at the first end portion side of the coupling member,

wherein the second end portion comprises a pair of projections, each projection including a tip and each projection being projected away from the first end portion, and

wherein, if a first plane is defined as a plane that includes both the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position and the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the second position, and a second plane is defined as a plane that includes the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position and is perpendicular to the first plane,

then when the coupling member is in the first position and the tips of the projections are in the first plane, the projections are positioned on opposite sides of the second plane, and when the coupling member is in the second position and the tips of the projections are in the first plane, the projections are on the same side of the second plane.

212. A developing cartridge according to claim 211, wherein said first end portion is capable of transmitting a rotational force to the developer roller.

213. A developing cartridge according to claim 212, wherein the coupling member is movable to a third position in which the axis L2 is inclined with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position and in a direction opposite to the direction in which the coupling member is inclined when in the second position.

214. A developing cartridge according to claim 213, wherein, when the coupling member is in the third position, a portion of the axis L2 at the first end portion side of the coupling member is nearer to the axis L1 than a portion of the axis L2 at the second end portion side of the coupling member.

215. A developing cartridge according to claim 214, wherein, when the coupling member is in the third position and the tips of the projections are in the first plane, the projections are positioned on a side opposite to the side on which the projections are positioned when the coupling is in the second position.

216. A developing cartridge according to claim 214, further comprising a casing in which the developer roller is rotatably supported.

217. A developing cartridge according to claim 216, wherein the casing comprises a bearing member rotatably supporting the developer roller.

218. A developing cartridge according to claim 217, wherein the casing comprises a contact portion capable of contacting the coupling member to position the coupling member at the second position.

219. A developing cartridge according to claim 218, wherein the casing comprises a guide portion capable of guiding the coupling member toward the second position.

220. A developing cartridge according claim 214, wherein the second end portion comprises a surface that is substantially perpendicular to the axis L2, and two projections extending from the surface at diametrically opposed positions.

221. A developing cartridge according to claim 220, wherein the surface includes an opening to a recess, with the recess including a surface facing away from the first end portion.

222. A developing cartridge according to claim 221, wherein each projection includes a surface at least a portion of which overhangs a portion of the second end portion.

223. A developing cartridge according to claim 214, further comprising:

a first gear connected to the developer roller; and

a second gear connected to the coupling member and in meshing engagement with the first gear.

224. A developing cartridge according to claim 223, wherein the second gear is connected to the coupling member such that the coupling member can partially rotate about the axis L2 without transmitting a force to the second gear.

225. A developing cartridge according to claim 224, wherein the second gear has a hollow portion, and at least part of the first end portion of the coupling member is in the hollow portion of the second gear.

226. A developing cartridge according to claim 225, wherein at least the part of the first end portion of the coupling member is supported by the hollow portion.

227. A developing cartridge according to claim 226, wherein the first end portion of the coupling member comprises substantially a spherical shape.

228. A developing cartridge according to claim 227, wherein the connecting portion includes substantially a shaft along the axis L2.

229. A developing cartridge according to claim 214, further comprising an urging member that biases the coupling member to the second position.

230. A developing cartridge according to claim 229, wherein the urging member is a torsion spring that contacts the connecting portion of the coupling member.

231. A developing cartridge according to claim 214, wherein the coupling member can be inclined in substantially any direction relative to the first position.

232. A developing cartridge according to claim 214, wherein the coupling member is made from a resin material.

233. A developing cartridge according to claim 232, wherein the resin material is polyacetal.

234. A developing cartridge according to claim 214, wherein the coupling member is made from a metallic material.

235. A developing cartridge according to claim 220, wherein each projection includes a surface at least a portion of which overhangs the surface of the second end portion.

236. A developing cartridge according to claim 211, wherein when the coupling member is in the second position, the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined from about 20 degrees to about 60 degrees with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position.

237. A developing cartridge according to claim 215, wherein when the coupling member is in the third position, the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined from about 20 degrees to about 60 degrees with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position.

238. A developing cartridge according to claim 237, wherein when the coupling member is in the second position, the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined from about 20 degrees to about 60 degrees with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position.

239. A developing cartridge comprising:

a developer roller having an axis L1, the developer roller being rotatable about the axis L1; and

a coupling member having an axis L2, the coupling member having (i) a first end portion operatively connected with the developer roller, (ii) a second end portion, and (iii) a connecting portion connecting the first end portion and the second end portion,

wherein the coupling member is movable between a first position in which the axis L2 of the coupling member is substantially parallel to and offset from the axis L1 of the developer roller, and a second position in which the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined with respect to the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position and in which a portion of the axis L2 at the first end portion side of the coupling member is nearer to the axis L1 than a portion of the axis L2 at the second end portion side of the coupling member,

wherein the second end portion comprises a pair of projections, each projection including a tip and each projection being projected away from the first end portion, and

wherein, if a first plane is defined as a plane that includes both the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position and the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the second position, and a second plane is defined as a plane that includes the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position and is perpendicular to the first plane,

then when the coupling member is in the first position and the tips of the projections are in the first plane, the projections are positioned on opposite sides of the second plane, and when the coupling member is in the second position and the tips of the projections are in the first plane, the projections are on the same side of the second plane.

240. A developing cartridge according to claim 239, wherein said first end portion is capable of transmitting a rotational force to the developer roller.

241. A developing cartridge according to claim 240, wherein the coupling member is movable to a third position in which the axis L2 is inclined with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position and in a direction opposite to the direction in which the coupling member is inclined when in the second position.

242. A developing cartridge according to claim 241, wherein, when the coupling member is in the third position, a portion of the axis L2 at the second end portion side of the coupling member is nearer to the axis L1 than a portion of the axis L2 at the first end portion side of the coupling member.

243. A developing cartridge according to claim 242, wherein, when the coupling member is in the third position and the tips of the projections are in the first plane, the projections are positioned on a side opposite to the side on which the projections are positioned when the coupling is in the second position.

244. A developing cartridge according to claim 242, further comprising a casing in which the developer roller is rotatably supported.

245. A developing cartridge according to claim 244, wherein the casing comprises a bearing member rotatably supporting the developer roller.

246. A developing cartridge according to claim 245, wherein the casing comprises a contact portion capable of contacting the coupling member to position the coupling member at the third position.

247. A developing cartridge according to claim 246, wherein the casing comprises a guide portion capable of guiding the coupling member toward the third position.

248. A developing cartridge according claim 242, wherein the second end portion comprises a surface that is substantially perpendicular to the axis L2, and two projections extending from the surface at diametrically opposed positions.

249. A developing cartridge according to claim 248, wherein the surface includes an opening to a recess, with the recess including a surface facing away from the first end portion.

250. A developing cartridge according to claim 249, wherein each projection includes a surface at least a portion of which overhangs a portion of the second end portion.

251. A developing cartridge according to claim 242, further comprising:

a first gear connected to the developer roller; and

a second gear connected to the coupling member and in meshing engagement with the first gear.

252. A developing cartridge according to claim 251, wherein the second gear is connected to the coupling member such that the coupling member can partially rotate about the axis L2 without transmitting a force to the second gear.

253. A developing cartridge according to claim 252, wherein the second gear has a hollow portion, and at least part of the first end portion of the coupling member is in the hollow portion of the second gear.

254. A developing cartridge according to claim 253, wherein at least the part of the first end portion of the coupling member is supported by the hollow portion.

255. A developing cartridge according to claim 254, wherein the first end portion of the coupling member comprises substantially a spherical shape.

256. A developing cartridge according to claim 255, wherein the connecting portion includes substantially a shaft along the axis L2.

257. A developing cartridge according to claim 242, further comprising an urging member that biases the coupling member to the third position.

258. A developing cartridge according to claim 257, wherein the urging member is a torsion spring that contacts the connecting portion of the coupling member.

259. A developing cartridge according to claim 242, wherein the coupling member can be inclined in substantially any direction relative to the first position.

260. A developing cartridge according to claim 242, wherein the coupling member is made from a resin material.

261. A developing cartridge according to claim 260, wherein the resin material is polyacetal.

262. A developing cartridge according to claim 242, wherein the coupling member is made from a metallic material.

263. A developing cartridge according to claim 248, wherein each projection includes a surface at least a portion of which overhangs the surface of the second end portion.

264. A developing cartridge according to claim 239, wherein when the coupling member is in the second position, the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined from about 20 degrees to about 60 degrees with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position.

265. A developing cartridge according to claim 243, wherein when the coupling member is in the third position, the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined from about 20 degrees to about 60 degrees with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position.

266. A developing cartridge according to claim 265, wherein when the coupling member is in the second position, the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined from about 20 degrees to about 60 degrees with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position.

267. A developing cartridge comprising:

a developer roller having an axis L1, the developer roller being rotatable about the axis L1; and

a coupling member having an axis L2, the coupling member having (i) a first end portion operatively connected with the developer roller, (ii) a second end portion, and (iii) a connecting portion connecting the first end portion and the second end portion,

wherein the coupling member is movable between a first position in which the axis L2 of the coupling member is substantially parallel to and offset from the axis L1 of the developer roller, and a second position in which the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined with respect to the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position,

wherein when the coupling member is in the second position, a portion of the axis L2 at the second end portion side of the coupling member is nearer to the axis L1 than a portion of the axis L2 at the first end portion side of the coupling member,

wherein the second end portion comprises a pair of projections, each projection including a tip and each projection being projected away from the first end portion, and

wherein, if a first plane is defined as a plane in which the tips of the projections move when the coupling member moves between the first position and the second position, and a second plane is defined as a plane that is perpendicular to the first plane and contains the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position, then the projections are positioned on opposite sides of the second plane when the coupling member is in the first position, and the projections are positioned on the same side of the second plane when the coupling member is in the second position.

268. A developing cartridge according to claim 267, wherein said first end portion is capable of transmitting a rotational force to the developer roller.

269. A developing cartridge according to claim 268, wherein the coupling member is movable to a third position in which the axis L2 is inclined with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position and in a direction opposite to the direction in which the coupling member is inclined when in the second position.

270. A developing cartridge according to claim 269, wherein, when the coupling member is in the third position, a portion of the axis L2 at the first end portion side of the coupling member is nearer to the axis L1 than a portion of the axis L2 at the second end portion side of the coupling member.

271. A developing cartridge according to claim 270, wherein, when the coupling member is in the third position and the tips of the projections are in the first plane, the projections are positioned on a side opposite to the side on which the projections are positioned when the coupling is in the second position.

272. A developing cartridge according to claim 270, further comprising a casing in which the developer roller is rotatably supported.

273. A developing cartridge according to claim 272, wherein the casing comprises a bearing member rotatably supporting the developer roller.

274. A developing cartridge according to claim 273, wherein the casing comprises a contact portion capable of contacting the coupling member to position the coupling member at the second position.

275. A developing cartridge according to claim 274, wherein the casing comprises a guide portion capable of guiding the coupling member toward the second position.

276. A developing cartridge according claim 270, wherein the second end portion comprises a surface that is substantially perpendicular to the axis L2, and two projections extending from the surface at diametrically opposed positions.

277. A developing cartridge according to claim 276, wherein the surface includes an opening to a recess, with the recess including a surface facing away from the first end portion.

278. A developing cartridge according to claim 277, wherein each projection includes a surface at least a portion of which overhangs a portion of the second end portion.

279. A developing cartridge according to claim 270, further comprising:

a first gear connected to the developer roller; and

a second gear connected to the coupling member and in meshing engagement with the first gear.

280. A developing cartridge according to claim 279, wherein the second gear is connected to the coupling member such that the coupling member can partially rotate about the axis L2 without transmitting a force to the second gear.

281. A developing cartridge according to claim 280, wherein the second gear has a hollow portion, and at least part of the first end portion of the coupling member is in the hollow portion of the second gear.

282. A developing cartridge according to claim 281, wherein at least the part of the first end portion of the coupling member is supported by the hollow portion.

283. A developing cartridge according to claim 282, wherein the first end portion of the coupling member comprises substantially a spherical shape.

284. A developing cartridge according to claim 283, wherein the connecting portion includes substantially a shaft along the axis L2.

285. A developing cartridge according to claim 270, further comprising an urging member that biases the coupling member to the second position.

286. A developing cartridge according to claim 285, wherein the urging member is a torsion spring that contacts the connecting portion of the coupling member.

287. A developing cartridge according to claim 270, wherein the coupling member can be inclined in substantially any direction relative to the first position.

288. A developing cartridge according to claim 270, wherein the coupling member is made from a resin material.

289. A developing cartridge according to claim 288, wherein the resin material is polyacetal.

290. A developing cartridge according to claim 270, wherein the coupling member is made from a metallic material.

291. A developing cartridge according to claim 276, wherein each projection includes a surface at least a portion of which overhangs the surface of the second end portion.

292. A developing cartridge according to claim 267, wherein when the coupling member is in the second position, the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined from about 20 degrees to about 60 degrees with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position.

293. A developing cartridge according to claim 271, wherein when the coupling member is in the third position, the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined from about 20 degrees to about 60 degrees with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position.

294. A developing cartridge according to claim 293, wherein when the coupling member is in the second position, the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined from about 20 degrees to about 60 degrees with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position.

295. A developing cartridge comprising:

a developer roller having an axis L1, the developer roller being rotatable about the axis L1; and

a coupling member having an axis L2, the coupling member having (i) a first end portion operatively connected with the developer roller, (ii) a second end portion, and (iii) a connecting portion connecting the first end portion and the second end portion,

wherein the coupling member is movable between a first position in which the axis L2 of the coupling member is substantially parallel to and offset from the axis L1 of the developer roller, and a second position in which the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined with respect to the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position,

wherein when the coupling member is in the second position, a portion of the axis L2 at the first end portion side of the coupling member is nearer to the axis L1 than a portion of the axis L2 at the second end portion side of the coupling member,

wherein the second end portion comprises a pair of projections, each projection including a tip and each projection being projected away from the first end portion, and

wherein, if a first plane is defined as a plane in which the tips of the projections move when the coupling member moves between the first position and the second position, and a second plane is defined as a plane that is perpendicular to the first plane and contains the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position, then the projections are positioned on opposite sides of the second plane when the coupling member is in the first position, and the projections are positioned on the same side of the second plane when the coupling member is in the second position.

296. A developing cartridge according to claim 295, wherein said first end portion is capable of transmitting a rotational force to the developer roller.

297. A developing cartridge according to claim 296, wherein the coupling member is movable to a third position in which the axis L2 is inclined with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position and in a direction opposite to the direction in which the coupling member is inclined when in the second position.

298. A developing cartridge according to claim 297, wherein, when the coupling member is in the third position, a portion of the axis L2 at the second end portion side of the coupling member is nearer to the axis L1 than a portion of the axis L2 at the first end portion side of the coupling member.

299. A developing cartridge according to claim 298, wherein, when the coupling member is in the third position and the tips of the projections are in the first plane, the projections are positioned on a side opposite to the side on which the projections are positioned when the coupling is in the second position.

300. A developing cartridge according to claim 298, further comprising a casing in which the developer roller is rotatably supported.

301. A developing cartridge according to claim 300, wherein the casing comprises a bearing member rotatably supporting the developer roller.

302. A developing cartridge according to claim 301, wherein the casing comprises a contact portion capable of contacting the coupling member to position the coupling member at the third position.

303. A developing cartridge according to claim 302, wherein the casing comprises a guide portion capable of guiding the coupling member toward the third position.

304. A developing cartridge according claim 298, wherein the second end portion comprises a surface that is substantially perpendicular to the axis L2, and two projections extending from the surface at diametrically opposed positions.

305. A developing cartridge according to claim 304, wherein the surface includes an opening to a recess, with the recess including a surface facing away from the first end portion.

306. A developing cartridge according to claim 305, wherein each projection includes a surface at least a portion of which overhangs a portion of the second end portion.

307. A developing cartridge according to claim 298, further comprising:

a first gear connected to the developer roller; and

a second gear connected to the coupling member and in meshing engagement with the first gear.

308. A developing cartridge according to claim 307, wherein the second gear is connected to the coupling member such that the coupling member can partially rotate about the axis L2 without transmitting a force to the second gear.

309. A developing cartridge according to claim 308, wherein the second gear has a hollow portion, and at least part of the first end portion of the coupling member is in the hollow portion of the second gear.

310. A developing cartridge according to claim 309, wherein at least the part of the first end portion of the coupling member is supported by the hollow portion.

311. A developing cartridge according to claim 310, wherein the first end portion of the coupling member comprises substantially a spherical shape.

312. A developing cartridge according to claim 311, wherein the connecting portion includes substantially a shaft along the axis L2.

313. A developing cartridge according to claim 298, further comprising an urging member that biases the coupling member to the third position.

314. A developing cartridge according to claim 313, wherein the urging member is a torsion spring that contacts the connecting portion of the coupling member.

315. A developing cartridge according to claim 298, wherein the coupling member can be inclined in substantially any direction relative to the first position.

316. A developing cartridge according to claim 298, wherein the coupling member is made from a resin material.

317. A developing cartridge according to claim 316, wherein the resin material is polyacetal.

318. A developing cartridge according to claim 298, wherein the coupling member is made from a metallic material.

319. A developing cartridge according to claim 304, wherein each projection includes a surface at least a portion of which overhangs the surface of the second end portion.

320. A developing cartridge according to claim 295, wherein when the coupling member is in the second position, the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined from about 20 degrees to about 60 degrees with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position.

321. A developing cartridge according to claim 299, wherein when the coupling member is in the third position, the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined from about 20 degrees to about 60 degrees with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position.

322. A developing cartridge according to claim 321, wherein when the coupling member is in the second position, the axis L2 of the coupling member is inclined from about 20 degrees to about 60 degrees with respect to the position of the axis L2 when the coupling member is in the first position.