Device for screening a photoconductive element unit from external light

摘要

In a laser printer or similar electrophotographic image recorder of the type having a photoconductive element subunit including a photoconductive drum and an upper and a lower unit which are hinged together and each is loaded with a different group of structural parts and elements inclusive of the subunit, a device for screening the drum includes a screening member which is movable in interlocked relation to opening and closing motions of the upper unit. The screening member covers the drum when the upper unit is opened and uncovers it when the upper unit is closed. When the image recorder is in operation with the upper unit being closed, the drum is uncovered to allow a laser beam to reach the drum. When the image recorder is out of operation with the upper unit being opened, the screening member covers the drum in response to an opening motion of the upper unit so as to screen the drum against external light.