Print liquid supply

Abstract

In one embodiment, a printing liquid supply device for supplying liquid to a liquid needle of a receiving station is provided, the printing liquid supply device comprising: a liquid container comprising an at least partially collapsible liquid reservoir; an interface structure at a side of the container, the interface structure comprising: a liquid channel comprising a reservoir connection portion fluidically connected to the reservoir and to a needle receiving portion to allow liquid flow from the reservoir to the needle; a liquid interface of the liquid channel adjacent to the needle receiving portion and at a distance from the reservoir connection portion; a front wall and / or an edge adjacent to the liquid interface comprising a push area arranged between the liquid interface and the container; at least one key pen base, and a key pen protruding from the base in a direction parallel to and opposite to the needle insertion direction; an array of contact pads next to the liquid channel needle receiving portion, in another example a sub-assembly of such a device is provided.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] A printing liquid supply source includes a reservoir containing the printing liquid. The printing liquid can be a printing agent, such as ink or any liquid that assists in a two-dimensional (2D) or three-dimensional (3D) printing process. In use, the printing liquid is supplied to a printing liquid dispensing mechanism downstream of the supply source. The printing liquid dispensing mechanism can be part of a larger 2D or 3D printing system. The printing system may include multiple receiving stations to allow supply sources of different liquid types to be connected to and replaced by the printing liquid dispensing mechanism. Other printing systems (such as monochrome systems) include only a single receiving station. Attached Figure Description

[0002] Figure 1 The illustration shows a schematic side view of an example liquid supply device.

[0003] Figure 2 The diagram shows... Figure 1 A schematic front view of an exemplary liquid supply device.

[0004] Figure 3 The illustration shows a side view of a portion of an exemplary printing liquid supply device.

[0005] Figure 4 An illustration of a top view of a similar example of a liquid supply device.

[0006] Figure 5 The illustration shows perspective views of several example liquid supply devices and their corresponding receiving stations.

[0007] Figure 6 Another perspective view illustrating several examples of liquid supply devices and corresponding receiving stations is shown.

[0008] Figure 7 The illustration shows a side view of an example receiving station equipped with a liquid supply device.

[0009] Figure 8 The illustration shows a side view of an example liquid supply device.

[0010] Figure 9 The diagram shows... Figure 8 A front view of an exemplary liquid supply device.

[0011] Figure 10 The illustration shows a front push region and a liquid interface of an example interface structure.

[0012] Figure 11 The illustration shows a top-view cross-section of an example interface structure and receiving station before or after fluid connection.

[0013] Figure 12The illustration shows an example interface structure and a cross-sectional top view of the receiving station during fluid connection.

[0014] Figure 13 The illustration shows a perspective view of an example interface structure protruding from one side of a container.

[0015] Figure 14 The illustration shows a front view of an example interface structure.

[0016] Figure 15 The diagram shows... Figure 14 A detailed perspective view of an exemplary guide slot for the interface structure.

[0017] Figure 16 A side view illustrating details of the exemplary interface structure shown in some of the above figures is provided.

[0018] Figure 17 The illustration shows a perspective view of an example liquid supply device being pushed into a receiving station.

[0019] Figure 17A and Figure 17B The diagram illustrates a corresponding guide feature of the interface structure.

[0020] Figure 18 The illustration shows a cross-sectional top view of the example, illustrating the exemplary hook and exemplary fastening features of the receiving station and interface structure, respectively.

[0021] Figure 19 The illustration shows another perspective view of an example interface structure protruding from the container side.

[0022] Figure 20 A perspective view of an exemplary receiving station is illustrated.

[0023] Figure 21 The illustration shows an exemplary interface structure and a top-view cross-section of the receiving station in a fluid connection state.

[0024] Figure 22 The illustration shows a cross-sectional perspective view of an exemplary liquid supply device.

[0025] Figure 23 The illustration shows an exemplary liquid channel and its liquid flow path.

[0026] Figure 24 The illustration shows a cross-sectional top view of an exemplary interface structure.

[0027] Figure 25 The diagram shows... Figure 24 A front view of an exemplary interface structure.

[0028] Figure 26 The illustration shows a perspective view of an exemplary interface structure.

[0029] Figure 27 The illustration shows a perspective view of an exemplary key pen.

[0030] Figure 28 The illustration shows a cross-sectional perspective view of an exemplary liquid supply device.

[0031] Figures 29 to 32 The front view of an exemplary key pen is illustrated with different rotation orientations.

[0032] Figure 33 The illustration shows an example of a base hole in the base wall.

[0033] Figure 34 The illustration shows a cross-section of an exemplary key pen base portion.

[0034] Figure 35 The illustration shows a front view of an exemplary key pen.

[0035] Figure 36 The illustration shows a cross-sectional front view of another exemplary key pen.

[0036] Figure 37 The illustration shows a side view of an example of a key pen.

[0037] Figure 37A The illustration shows a side view of another exemplary key pen.

[0038] Figure 38 An illustration of the front view of another exemplary key pen is shown.

[0039] Figure 39 The illustration shows a side view of another exemplary key pen.

[0040] Figure 40 An exploded view of an exemplary kit 100, including components for constructing a supply device, is illustrated.

[0041] Figure 40A The illustration shows an example of an unfilled storage device.

[0042] Figure 41 The illustration shows a perspective view of an exemplary liquid supply device.

[0043] Figure 42 The illustration shows a front view of an exemplary liquid supply device.

[0044] Figure 43 The illustration shows a perspective view of another exemplary liquid supply device.

[0045] Figure 44 The illustration shows a side view of another exemplary liquid supply device.

[0046] Figure 45 The illustration shows a side view of yet another exemplary liquid supply device.

[0047] Figure 46 The illustration shows a perspective view of several exemplary liquid supply devices.

[0048] Figure 47 The illustration shows a perspective view of an exemplary receiving station and liquid supply device.

[0049] Figure 48 The illustration shows a front view and side views on the left and right sides, respectively, of another exemplary interface structure.

[0050] Figure 49 The illustration shows a front view of another exemplary liquid supply device.

[0051] Figure 50 The illustration shows a front view of yet another exemplary liquid supply device.

[0052] Figure 50A The illustration shows a front view of another exemplary liquid supply device.

[0053] Figure 50B The illustration shows a front view of another exemplary liquid supply device.

[0054] Figure 50C The illustration shows a front view of another exemplary liquid supply device.

[0055] Figure 51 The illustration shows a cross-sectional top view of an example of the interface structure and the key pen structure.

[0056] Figure 52 The illustration shows a front view of another exemplary liquid supply device.

[0057] Figure 53 The diagram shows... Figure 52 An illustration of a side view of an exemplary liquid supply device.

[0058] Figure 54 The illustration shows a side view of another exemplary liquid supply device.

[0059] Figure 55 The diagram shows... Figure 54 An illustration of a front view of an exemplary liquid supply device.

[0060] Figure 56 The illustration shows a perspective view of another exemplary liquid supply device in a partially disassembled state.

[0061] Figure 57The diagram shows... Figure 56 Another perspective view of an exemplary liquid supply device in its assembled state.

[0062] Figure 58 The illustration shows a perspective view of yet another exemplary liquid supply device.

[0063] Figure 59 The diagram is shown again. Figure 58 A perspective view of an exemplary liquid supply device installed in a corresponding receiving station.

[0064] Figure 60 The illustration shows a front view of yet another exemplary liquid supply device. Detailed Implementation

[0065] This disclosure relates to a printing liquid supply device, an interface structure for use with the printing liquid supply device, and components of the printing liquid supply device and the interface structure. In operation, the interface structure of this disclosure can be part of a replaceable printing supply device and can facilitate fluid connection of the contents of the supply device to a host device, such as a printer. Exemplary interface structures of this disclosure can be associated with a relatively wide range of different liquid volumes, supply types, and printer platforms, wherein the printer platform can differ, particularly in terms of operation with different media types, media formats, printing speeds, and / or liquid types, etc.

[0066] The liquid mentioned in this disclosure can be a printing liquid. A printing liquid can be any type of liquid used for printing, including inks and 3D printing agents and inhibitors. A printing liquid may contain a certain amount of gas and / or solid. While this disclosure primarily relates to printing-related aspects, it should be understood that the features and effects discussed in this disclosure can also function with other types of liquid supply devices connected to other types of host devices.

[0067] For example, the printing liquid supply device of this disclosure can be associated with relatively high-speed or large-scale printing systems. The liquid reservoir volume of the supply device can be at least approximately 50 ml, at least approximately 90 ml, at least approximately 100 ml, at least approximately 200 ml, at least approximately 250 ml, at least approximately 400 ml, at least approximately 500 ml, at least approximately 700 ml, or at least approximately 1 L. In another example, the supply device can be adapted to accommodate larger liquid volumes, such as at least 1 L, at least 2 L, or at least 5 L. The reservoir volume of the supply device of this disclosure can be scaled over a wide range of volumes. The same interface structure and the same receiving station can be associated with this wide range of volumes. The supply source of this disclosure can facilitate the use of similar receiving station components for different printing system platforms. For example, both smaller and larger format printers, or both 2D and 3D printers, can be equipped with similar receiving stations to interface with the interface structure of this disclosure. This allows for greater customization across a relatively wide range of products, thereby enabling cost control, efficiency, etc.

[0068] Further exemplary interface structures and supply devices disclosed herein facilitate relatively easy installation and removal of the supply device relative to the receiving station, regardless of the internal liquid volume. In another example, a relatively environmentally friendly supply device is provided.

[0069] In this disclosure, “approximately” or “at least approximately” should be understood to include an appropriate margin and to be “exact”. For example, when referring to approximately 23 mm, it may include a margin, such as being 0.5 mm larger or smaller than 23 mm, but should still include the exact value of 23 mm.

[0070] In this disclosure, certain examples are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. While the drawings illustrate certain combinations of features, sub-combinations of features not shown separately can also be derived from these drawings. The drawings may be used for reference purposes where appropriate reference is made to certain sub-combinations of features, margins, ranges, alternatives, different features, and / or the omission or addition of certain features.

[0071] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The illustrations show side and front views of an example printing liquid supply device 1. The printing liquid supply device 1 includes a container 3 for containing printing liquid. In one example, the container 3 includes a at least partially collapsible reservoir for containing the liquid. In another example, the container 3 includes a support structure, such as a box or tray, at least partially surrounding the reservoir to support and / or protect it. In this disclosure, unless otherwise specified, the container at least includes a reservoir.

[0072] In its filled state, container 3 can have a generally cuboid external shape, with rectangular outer walls and sharp or rounded edges connecting these walls. Container 3 can have other shapes. In the example, container 3 includes a shrinkable pouch adapted to shrink to facilitate liquid extraction. In the illustrated diagram, container 3 is shown in an inflated state, such as a filled state. In the example, container 3 does not have a separate liquid retention material, such as foam. Container 3 allows the printed liquid to move freely within its liquid retention volume.

[0073] The supply device 1 includes an interface structure 5, for example, for providing a liquid connection between the internal liquid volume of container 3 and another host device, such as a printer. The interface structure 5 includes at least a liquid flow element 11 for supplying liquid from container 3 to a receiving station. As explained below, in some examples, in certain situations, liquid may be returned to container 3 in a timely manner, for example, due to certain pressure changes, or the liquid in container 3 may be mixed or circulated, through a single liquid flow channel or through multiple flow channels of the same interface structure 3.

[0074] In one example, the host device (such as a 2D or 3D printer) includes a receiving station 7 for receiving interface structure 5. The receiving station 7 can be a fixed or replaceable part of the host device. Figure 1 The illustration shows a portion of the receiving station 7 including a liquid needle 9. In this disclosure, the liquid needle 9 may include any fluid needle or pen for insertion into a fluid interface of the supply device. For example, the fluid needle may include a metal needle or a plastic needle. In other examples, other types of receiving stations with liquid interfaces different from those for needles may be used. Other types of fluid interfaces for the receiving station may include a tower or a diaphragm for receiving supply-side needles. A liquid flow element 11 is adapted to connect to a printer-side liquid interface. An exemplary supply device 1 is installed and removed relative to the receiving station 7. An interface structure 5 is adapted to be installed and removed relative to the receiving station 7. In one example, the interface structure 5 is adapted to be relatively user-friendly for insertion and ejection relative to the receiving station 7.

[0075] Interface structure 5 may include multiple interface features that interact with the receiving station. As explained with reference to various examples and figures, these interface features may include a liquid interface 15, a data processing feature, a data connection feature, a guiding and alignment feature, an actuation feature for mechanically actuating the receiving station components, a fastening feature, a key feature, etc. In some examples, interface structure 5 may include a single molded structure, at least a portion of which is connected to and protrudes from container 3. Interface structure 5 may also serve as a separate cap for container 3, used to seal container 3 during transport and storage after it has been filled with liquid prior to transport.

[0076] Container 3 and interface structure 5 each have corresponding first dimensions D1, d1, second dimensions D2, d2, and third dimensions D3, d3, which extend parallel to vertical reference axes y, x, z, respectively. In this disclosure, container dimensions D1, D2, D3 represent (i) axes parallel to the respective reference axes y, x, z, along which container 3 extends; and (ii) the range of container volume along said axes. In this disclosure, interface dimensions d1, d2, d3 represent (i) axes parallel to the respective reference axes y, x, z; and (ii) the range of interface profile of interface structure 5 along said axes, wherein the interface profile is the portion of interface structure 5 to be interfaced with the receiving station. It is understood that the interface profile or first dimension d1 of interface structure 5 spans the interface component of interface structure 5 to be interfaced with the receiving station 7. The interface structure may include elements protruding beyond interface dimensions d1, d2, d3 and outside the interface profile, for example, for connecting to and / or supporting container 3. Each of the first dimensions D1, d1, the second dimensions D2, d2, and the third dimensions D3, d3 can refer to the corresponding one of height, length, and width, depending on the orientation of container 3 or interface structure 5.

[0077] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the illustrated example, the first dimensions D1 and d1 represent the heights of the container 3 and the interface structure 5, respectively; the second dimensions D2 and d2 represent the lengths of the container 3 and the interface structure 5, respectively; and the third dimensions D3 and d3 represent the widths of the container 3 and the interface structure 5, respectively. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that the receiving station 7 and the supply device 1 can have different configurations and orientations under different circumstances and conditions, and this is why the present disclosure refers to "dimensions" or certain parallel "directions" or "axises" when describing certain features and their relative positions, dimensions, and orientations.

[0078] On the other hand, for clarity, this disclosure sometimes uses more orientation-related language, such as "top view," "side view," "front view," "rear," "bottom," "front," "top," "lateral side," "width," "height," "length," "lateral," "far side," etc., but this should be interpreted as being for clarity only and not as limiting the corresponding features to a specific orientation, unless otherwise explained. To illustrate this, certain liquid supply devices having shrink-bag type reservoirs can operate in any orientation due to the nature of shrink-bag type reservoirs, wherein the interface structure can protrude from the container in any direction. Accordingly, the protrusion of the container can protrude in any direction, and the interface structure can protrude in any direction. Furthermore, compared to some of the illustrations in this disclosure, if the container is placed or installed upside down, the "bottom of the container" can be oriented towards the top of the container without affecting the function of the supply device or interface structure. Also, if the container is rotated 90 degrees relative to the horizontal orientation illustrated in most of the figures, the interface structure or the front of the container can be oriented downwards when installed.

[0079] In addition, this description may refer to a virtual reference plane, a virtual plane, or a plane intended to be used as a reference for explaining certain shapes, relative positions, dimensions, ranges, orientations, etc., similar to the previously explained axes, directions, and dimensions d1, D1, d2, D2, d3, D3.

[0080] The interface structure 5 protrudes outward from the container 3 along the direction of the first dimensions D1, d1. In the illustration, the interface structure 5 extends from the container side 13, parallel to the second container dimension D2 and the third container dimension D3. In the illustrated example, the interface structure 5 extends from the bottom 13 of the container 3, which is defined by the bottom wall.

[0081] In other examples, the interface structure 5 may extend from one of the lateral side, front, rear, or top of the container 3. In different examples, the supply device 1 may have different orientations under conditions where a printer or storage is installed, wherein the interface structure 5 may extend downward, upward, or to the side in any direction, and the first dimensions D1, d1 may be in the corresponding directions.

[0082] The interface structure 5 illustrated protrudes outward relative to the outer wall 13 of the container 3 along the direction of the first dimensions D1, d1, such that the total first dimension D1+d1 of the supply device 1 can be approximately the sum of the two first dimensions D1, d1 of the container 3 and the interface structure 5. The first dimension D1 of the container 3 can be the distance between opposite walls along the first dimension D1. The first dimension d1 of the interface structure 5 can be the distance between opposite sides of the protruding portion of the interface structure 5 along the first dimension d1. In some examples, the interface structure 5 has a relatively small profile in which multiple interface components extend. The first interface dimension d1 can be less than half of the first container dimension D1, or less than one-third, one-quarter, one-fifth, or one-sixth of the first container dimension D1.

[0083] Interface structure 5 includes a liquid flow element 11 for fluidly connecting the container to the receiving station. The liquid flow element 11 further includes a liquid channel 17, which, when installed, fluidly connects the internal volume of the container 3 to the receiving station 7. The liquid channel 17 includes a liquid interface 15 for mating with the liquid input interface of the receiving station 7 (in... Figure 1 In one example, the fluid needle 9 is fluidly docked. In another example, the liquid interface 15 includes a seal for receiving and sealing the fluid needle 9 thereto. The liquid channel 17 may be defined by at least one liquid channel wall (e.g., a cylindrical or other rounded channel wall surrounding and extending along at least one central axis C21 and / or C29). The liquid channel 17 may include a channel needle receiving portion 21 and a channel reservoir connection portion 29, for example, having a curved liquid channel intermediate portion 19 therebetween.

[0084] The needle receiving portion 21 extends along the needle insertion direction NI and the main liquid flow direction DL, which is opposite to the needle insertion direction NI. The central axis C21 of the needle receiving portion 21, the interface 15, and the seal extend along the needle insertion direction NI and the main liquid flow direction DL, which is opposite to the needle insertion direction NI. The central axis C21 of the needle receiving portion 21 can be relatively straight along the needle insertion direction NI to facilitate the insertion of the needle 9. In the figures, the central axis C21, the main liquid flow direction DL, and the needle insertion direction NI extend collinearly.

[0085] The liquid channel reservoir connection portion 29 may extend generally parallel to the first interface dimension d1 or parallel to the protruding direction of the interface structure 5 (as indicated by the central axis C29 of the liquid channel reservoir connection portion 29). The central axis C21 of the channel needle receiving portion 21 and the central axis C29 of the channel reservoir connection portion 29 extend at an angle (e.g., approximately right angle) to each other.

[0086] The liquid channel 17 may further include an intermediate portion 19 between the channel needle receiving portion 21 and the channel reservoir connection portion 29. The intermediate portion 19 may, for example, deform the channel 17 between the needle receiving portion 21 and the channel reservoir connection portion 29 in a curved form to connect the liquid interface 15 to the internal volume of the container 3. The intermediate portion 19 may facilitate bending and misalignment between the liquid channel needle receiving portion 21 and the liquid channel reservoir connection portion 29.

[0087] The liquid channel 17 and interface 15 (including the seal 20 and the channel needle receiving portion 21) are adapted to facilitate the flow of the liquid main direction DL away from the interface structure 5, as illustrated, while the needle insertion direction NI enters the interface structure 5. The liquid main direction DL of the liquid channel needle receiving portion 17 and the liquid interface 15 may extend straight out from the interface front portion 54, for example, parallel to the second interface dimension d2 and / or the second container dimension D2. The needle insertion direction NI may extend straight into the interface front portion 54, for example, parallel to the second interface dimension d2 and / or the second container dimension D2. It should be understood that, under the storage condition of disassembly of the supply device 1, the liquid main direction DL and the needle insertion direction NI may be defined by the central axis of the liquid channel needle receiving portion 21, which may in turn be defined by the inner wall of the liquid channel needle receiving portion 21 and / or the inner wall or central channel within the seal 20. In an example where the liquid channel needle receiver 21 and / or the liquid interface 15 including the seal 20 has a clearly defined central axis C21, the central axis C21 may define the main liquid flow direction DL and the needle insertion direction NI. The main liquid flow direction DL may be relatively straight, as determined by the central axis of the seal 20 and / or the liquid channel needle receiver portion 21 and / or the inner wall of the liquid channel, to facilitate the corresponding fluid needle 9 entering straight along the corresponding second dimension D2, d2.

[0088] The main liquid flow direction DL indicates the distance the liquid travels from container 3 to the receiving station for printing. In one example, the liquid flows in only one direction at least most of the time, i.e., from liquid interface 15 to receiving station 7. In other examples, needle 9 and liquid channel 17 may be adapted for bidirectional flow, for example, due to pressure fluctuations in the liquid loop of the printing system, or for mixing / recirculating the liquid in container 3. In fact, in some examples, two liquid interfaces may be provided in the same supply device for connecting to two corresponding fluid needles of a single receiving station to mix / recirculate the liquid in the container and / or the liquid channel of the printing system. Figure 2An additional dashed circle is illustrated next to the liquid interface 15 to illustrate this possibility. Therefore, in this disclosure, the main liquid flow direction DL refers to the liquid flowing out of the supply device 1 so that the liquid can be used for printing, even though the flow in the liquid channel 17 may be in the opposite direction at certain times, whether in the same liquid channel 17 or in separate liquid channels.

[0089] In the illustrated example, the protrusion 23 of container 3 protrudes in a direction parallel to the main liquid flow direction DL and extends beyond the liquid inlet 15 in the same direction. Correspondingly, the protrusion 23 protrudes along a second container dimension D2, which may be larger than the second inlet dimension d2. The protrusion 23 accommodates liquid such that, under filling conditions, the liquid can be held above or beside the liquid inlet 15 and beyond it. In some examples, more than one-third or more than half of the second container dimension D2 may protrude beyond the liquid inlet 15 along the main liquid flow direction DL. This allows the protrusion 23 to be inserted forward into the receiving station 7 before a sealed and operable connection is established between the receiving station 7 and the interface structure 5.

[0090] In some examples, the protrusion 23 of the container extending beyond the liquid interface 15 PP can determine the storage volume of the container 3. In multiple supply devices 1 with different volumes connected to the same receiving station, the first dimensions d1, D1 and the third dimensions d3, D3 are the same, but the second container dimensions can be different. A storage container with a relatively large liquid volume can be associated with a longer protrusion 23.

[0091] Some of these features facilitate easy connection of the selected liquid volume to the receiving station 7. The supply device 1 can be easily pushed into fluid connection with the receiving station 7 by pushing the rear portion 25 of the container 3 along the insertion direction I parallel to the main liquid flow direction DL. Furthermore, the manufacturer can adjust the internal volume of the container 3 by scaling the protrusion 23, while maintaining the same ease of insertion of the supply device 1 across these different volumes due to the identical positioning of the rear portion 25 and the interface structure 5. In some examples, the protrusion 23 extends into the receiving station 7, preventing the rear portion of the supply device 1 from protruding from the receiving station 7, thus preventing obstructions that the operator might otherwise encounter. Figure 1 In the example, the rear portion 25 of container 3 extends a short distance Bb beyond the rear portion 26 of interface structure 5, as measured along the second container dimension D2. For example, this distance Bb could be approximately between 0 and 1 cm or approximately between 0 and 1 cm.

[0092] When the protruding portion 23 protrudes beyond the liquid interface 15, for example, when the liquid volume is greater than 100 ml, the interface structure 5 can be fluidly connected to the container 3 with a certain offset distance from the center M of the second container size D2. This offset distance is, for example, greater than 5 mm or a few centimeters (cm), depending on the liquid volume of the container. Here, the center M can be defined by a virtual reference plane parallel to the first container size D1 and the third container size D3 and in the middle of the second container size D2. In the illustrated example, the center line M of the second container size D2 extends in the middle between the front portion 31 and the rear portion 25 of the container 3, and the reservoir connection portion 29 of the liquid channel 17 connects to the internal reservoir volume of the container 3 behind the center line M, between the center M and the rear portion 25 of the container 3. As shown, the reservoir connection portion 29 of the liquid channel 17 of the interface structure 5 is connected to the liquid output end 30 of the container 3 to facilitate the flow of liquid from the container 3 through the interface structure 5. Accordingly, a fluid connection is provided between the liquid outlet 30 of the container and the storage connection portion 29 of the liquid channel 17 between the intermediate plane M and the rear portion 25 of the container 3.

[0093] Figure 3 The illustration shows a side view of an example of a liquid supply device 1, where container 3 comprises a bag-in-a-box structure. In the illustrated state, a substantially empty and contracted reservoir 33 is shown. Reservoir 33 has air-barrier walls and vapor-barrier walls to prevent vapor from leaving reservoir 33 and air from entering the reservoir. In the illustrated state, most or all of the liquid has been drawn from reservoir 33 in a relatively random manner, and the reservoir has contracted accordingly. In the illustrated example, reservoir 33 is a substantially completely flexible bag, but in other examples, the reservoir may have some rigid portions. Reservoir 33 may be rigid near the output end 30 to facilitate connection with interface structure 5.

[0094] In the example, container 3 further includes a support structure 35 that at least partially surrounds storage unit 33, for example, to support and protect storage unit 33. Support structure 35 may also facilitate the relatively coarse guidance of supply unit 1 into receiving station 7. In further examples, support structure 35 may facilitate stacking, storage, and the presentation of usage, branding, and content information. In a filled state, storage unit 33 may occupy a large portion of the internal volume of support structure 35. For example, in a filled state, the external volume of storage unit 33 may be greater than 60%, 70%, 80%, or 90% of the internal volume of support structure 35. For example, the same storage unit 33 with a predefined volume capacity may be used for different support structures 35 of different volumes. For example, depending on the internal volume of support structure 35, storage unit 33 may be partially or fully filled. For example, storage unit 33 may be filled to less than 90%, 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, or even a smaller percentage of its maximum volume capacity. For example, although the storage container 33 may have a maximum capacity of 2L, the same 2L storage container may be partially filled and placed in a support structure 35 with a maximum capacity of less than 2L, such as 500ml or 1L, wherein a 500ml supply device 1 or a 1L supply device 1 is provided accordingly.

[0095] As from Figure 4 (This figure is a top view illustration of the exemplary supply device 1 along the first container size D1 and the protruding direction of the interface structure.) It can be seen that the interface structure 5 and its interface components can extend within a region or contour defined by the external volume of the container 3 (e.g., defined by the outer walls 25, 31, 51). In the filled state of the illustrated container 3, the illustrated outer walls 25, 31, 51 extend substantially parallel to the first container size D1. In the illustrated example, the second interface size d2 and the third interface size d3 are smaller than the corresponding second container size D2 and third container size D3, wherein the second container size D2 and the third container size D3 cover the second interface size d2 and the third interface size d3, as seen in directions perpendicular to the respective second and third dimensions.

[0096] In the examples, the support structure 35 may be made of cardboard or other suitable materials (such as other cellulose-based materials or plastics). In some examples, the support structure material includes corrugated cardboard and / or fiberboard. The support structure 35 may be relatively rigid compared to the at least partially retractable reservoir 33, for example, to provide support, protection, and stacking capability for the reservoir 33. The interface structure 5 is relatively rigid, for example, more rigid than the support structure 35, to facilitate relatively precise guidance relative to the receiving station 7. The interface structure 5 may include relatively rigid molded plastic. In one example, the liquid flow components of the reservoir 33 and the interface structure 5 are relatively impermeable to fluids compared to the support structure 35, i.e., impermeable to liquids, vapors, and air. The impermeability of the interface structure 5 contributes to its sealing function. The supply device 1 can be opened by opening, removing, puncturing, etc., the seals of the interface structure.

[0097] In the example, interface structure 5 includes at least one straight guide surface 41, 43, allowing interface structure 5 to slide along the corresponding receiving station surface, thereby facilitating the installation of container 3 in receiving station 7, as shown. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown. The at least one straight guide surface 41, 43 may be elongated in the direction of the second dimension d2 of the interface structure 5 and the second dimension D2 of the container 3, and extend substantially parallel to the second dimension. The at least one straight guide surface 41, 43 may include an opposite lateral guide surface 41 at the lateral outer side or sidewall 39, each lateral guide surface extending substantially parallel to the first interface dimension d1 and the second interface dimension d2. The at least one straight guide surface 41, 43 may include an intermediate guide surface 43 at the distal side 37, which extends opposite to the side 13 from which the interface structure 5 protrudes and extends between the lateral sides 39. In the illustrated example, the distal side 37 defines the bottom of the interface structure 5. The intermediate guide surface 43 may be substantially parallel to the second interface dimension d2 and the third interface dimension d3.

[0098] The lateral guide surface 41 and the intermediate guide surface 43 may be relatively flat. The lateral guide surface 41 and the intermediate guide surface 43 may be relatively elongated along the direction of the second interface dimension d2, and are sufficiently elongated along at least a portion of the interface structure 5 to facilitate limiting the movement of the supply device to the second interface dimension d2 and to position the liquid interface 15. The guide surfaces 41 and 43 of the interface structures 41 and 43 may be defined by the relatively flat, flush, and elongated outer surfaces of the interface structure 5 to facilitate sliding along the direction of the second interface dimension d2 and positioning the liquid interface 15 in the respective directions along the first interface dimension d1 and the third interface dimension d3. In one example, the third interface dimension d3 extends between the outer lateral guide surfaces 41. In one example, the second interface dimension d2 may be defined by the length of the intermediate guide surface 43 from the front to the rear of the interface structure 5.

[0099] In this example, the lateral guide surface 41 is adapted to (i) guide the liquid interface 15 in a direction along the second interface dimension d2 and the main liquid flow direction DL; and (ii) facilitate positioning the liquid interface 15 along an axis parallel to the third interface dimension d3 by restricting the degree of freedom of the interface structure 5 in the receiving station 7 in the opposite direction to the third interface dimension d3. The intermediate guide surface 43 is adapted to (i) guide the liquid interface 15 in a direction along the second interface dimension d2 and the main liquid flow direction DL; and (ii) facilitate positioning the liquid interface 15 along an axis parallel to the first interface dimension d1 by restricting the degree of freedom of the interface structure 5 in the receiving station 7 in at least one direction along the first interface dimension d1. In an example where the interface structure 5 protrudes downward from the bottom 13 during installation, the intermediate guide surface 43 may include a horizontal surface for facilitating vertical positioning of the liquid interface 15 relative to the liquid input interface of the receiving station by sliding on a corresponding horizontal bottom guide surface of the receiving station 7. For this purpose, the intermediate guide surface 43 may extend at a predetermined distance from the central axis CP21 of the liquid channel needle receiving portion 21. The intermediate guide surface 43 may span the main portion of the distal side 37 of the interface structure 5 along the second interface dimension d2 and the third interface dimension d3, wherein the first interface dimension d1 may extend between the container 3, on the side 13 from which the interface structure 5 protrudes, and the intermediate guide surface 43.

[0100] Figure 5 and Figure 6 The illustration shows a perspective view of several sets of printing liquid supply devices 101 of different volumes and corresponding receiving stations 107. Figure 7 The illustration shows any of these printing supply devices 101, installed in one of these receiving stations 107. Figure 8 and Figure 9A similar single exemplary supply device 101 is illustrated in side and front views, respectively. (Refer to...) Figures 1 to 4 The publicly disclosed features, functions, and definitions can be similarly applied to references. Figures 5 to 9 An example of the explanation.

[0101] In one example Figure 5 and Figure 6 The volumes of the four supply devices 101 (from smallest to largest supply device 101, i.e., in) Figure 5 From front to back and in Figure 6 (From left to right) are 100ml, 200ml, 500ml, and 1000ml, respectively. The interface structures 105 of the different supply devices 101 illustrated may have substantially the same dimensions d1, d2, d3, and some of the same interface components, except for certain differences (such as key pen orientation and data stored on the integrated circuit). These different volume supply devices 101 have different container volumes, wherein the first container size D1 and the third container size D3 are substantially the same, while the second container size D2 is different. Each container 103 is associated with a different liquid volume capacity and a different protrusion length PP of the protrusion 123. The illustrated exemplary container 103 includes a box-shaped support structure 135 such as a folding cardboard box, and an internal retractable reservoir. For example, the support structure 135 includes corrugated cardboard and / or fiberboard. It should be noted that although the support structure 135 can provide different volumes and a second container size D2, the reservoirs within the support structure can have the same design, such as having the same maximum capacity, but different fill amounts, such as fill amounts substantially corresponding to the respective support structure volumes.

[0102] exist Figure 5 and Figure 6 In this configuration, each interface structure 105 protrudes from the bottom 113 at an equidistant distance from the rear 125 of the container 103, for example, relatively close to the rear 125. Figure 8 As shown, the distance between the rear portion 126 of the interface structure 105 and the rear portion 125 of the container 103, along the second dimensions D2, d2 of the container 103 and the interface structure 105 (as defined by the distance between virtual reference planes on the rear portions 125, 126 parallel to the first dimensions D1, d1 and the third dimensions D3, d3), can be approximately 0 mm, or for example, less than 1 cm. Figure 8 As shown, the rear portion 125 of container 103 and the rear portion 126 of interface structure 105 can be approximately flush with each other. In other examples, the rear portion 125 of container 103 can extend further rearward than the rear portion 126 of interface structure 105, wherein the distance can be slightly greater than 0 mm, such as 1-5 mm, or significantly greater than 0 mm, such as greater than 1 cm, see, for example, [reference needed]. Figure 44 and Figure 45A diagrammatic example is provided. In another different example, the rear portion 126 of the interface structure 105 can extend from the rear portion 125 of the container, wherein there can also be a distance greater than 0 mm between the rear portions 125 and 126 in the opposite direction, as explained previously.

[0103] Figure 5 and Figure 6 Each different volume supply device 101 has a different container 103, the container having a different second container size D2, that is, the protrusion 123 has a different length PP along the second container size D2, wherein the length PP of the protrusion 123 can be determined by the second container size D2 in the main liquid flow direction DL. Figure 8 The area protruding beyond the edge 116 of the liquid interface 115 and / or the front portion 154 of the interface is defined.

[0104] In the case where there are no or almost no protrusions 123 extending beyond the interface edge 116, as indicated by reference numeral 123b, smaller supply volumes (e.g., 100 ml or less, such as...) Figure 5 The front supply device 101 and Figure 6 The corresponding supply device in the container 103 can have a second container size D2 with a length similar to or even smaller than the second interface size d2. Therefore, the protruding length PP of the container 103 can be zero or relatively small. Larger volumes (e.g., greater than 100 ml, such as...) Figure 5 Other supply devices and Figure 6 The corresponding supply device shown in the diagram may have a second container size D2 that is larger than the second interface size d2. In some examples, the second container size may be at least two or at least three times the second interface size d2. In these examples, the extent PP of the protrusion 123 is larger than the second interface size d2. These different container volumes and protrusion extents PP may be associated with substantially the same interface structure 105 and substantially the same receiving station 107. Furthermore, the same storage bag capacity may be used for different volumes and different support structures 135, but with different filling levels.

[0105] In a generally horizontal orientation of the supply device 101, the interface structure 105 may extend from the bottom 113 of the box near the rear 125 of the box, and the box protrudes forward on the interface structure 105 beyond the liquid outlet end of the liquid interface 115, wherein, for these different examples, the protrusion range PP determines the maximum liquid volume capacity of the container 103.

[0106] The third interface dimension d3 can be defined by the distance between the lateral outer sides 139 (e.g., defined by the lateral sidewalls 139a), and the third container dimension D3 can be defined by the distance between the outer surfaces of the opposite lateral sides 151 of container 103. In the illustrated example, the width of the supply device 101 is determined by the third container dimension D3. This width is relatively small, thereby providing a relatively small aspect ratio for the supply device 101, which in turn can help the receiver station set in a single printer to have a small footprint while being able to connect to a relatively large supply volume range. In the illustrated example, the third interface dimension d3 is slightly smaller than the third container dimension D3. For example, the third interface dimension d3 is approximately 80%-100%, such as approximately 85%-100%, or such as approximately 90%-100% of the third container dimension D3. The third interface dimension d3 can be between approximately 30 mm and 52 mm, for example, between approximately 48 mm and 50 mm. Accordingly, the third container size D3 can be larger, for example, between 30mm and 65mm, or between 45mm and 63mm, or between 50mm and 63mm. The third container size D3 can vary depending on the internal width of the receiving station 107 and / or the spacing between adjacent receiving stations 107. In other examples, the third container size D3 can be significantly larger than the third interface size d3 (see, for example, [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 46 ).

[0107] An exemplary effect of the container 103 protruding beyond the liquid interface 115 along the main liquid flow direction DL is that it facilitates consistent and relatively user-friendly installation and removal of different supply units 101 with a relatively wide range of volumes (including relatively large volumes). In the prior art, handling or installing these large-volume supply sources onto a printer can be relatively cumbersome. Furthermore, printer OEMs sometimes have different supply source designs to handle different liquid volumes for different platforms, but in the current example, the supply unit can be installed and removed relatively easily by pushing the rear 125 along the main liquid flow direction DL. Figure 7 As shown, the rear portion 125 can extend substantially collinearly with the edge of the receiving opening of the receiving station, which also facilitates easy insertion of the rear portion 125 into the receiving station for installation and removal of the supply device 101. Furthermore, the liquid inlet 115 remains relatively close to this rear portion, which can improve user control during installation by facilitating positioning of the liquid needle relative to the receiving station. The varying, relatively long protrusion PP does not affect the robustness and ease of installation. In fact, in some examples, the protrusion 123 can facilitate some pre-alignment of the supply device 101 with the receiving station 107.

[0108] The current example of the supply device 101 allows for an initial coarse alignment relative to the receiving station 107 when the protrusion 123 of the container 103 is placed in the receiving station 107, followed by a secondary, more precise alignment using interface structure guide features and / or key features that can engage with corresponding guide features and / or key features of the receiving station, which further aligns the liquid interface. This stepped alignment prevents damage to receiving station components, such as fluid needles, which could otherwise be easily damaged due to repeated connection of heavy, large-volume supply devices.

[0109] The extent of the protruding portion of interface structure 105 is represented by a first interface dimension d1. In this example, the first interface dimension d1 can be measured between the interface structure 5 from its protruding container side 113 and the outer or distal side 137 of interface structure 105, for example, at the proximal and distal front edges of interface structure 105 located on the opposite side of liquid interface 115 (e.g., respectively using...). Figure 10 The measurements are taken between 154b and 154c (indicated by 154b and 154c). In this example, the outer or distal 137 is defined by a support wall 137a parallel to the second interface dimension d2 and the third interface dimension d3, which also includes an intermediate guide groove 144.

[0110] The first interface size d1 can be at least one-sixth less than the first container size D1. In the illustrated orientation, this corresponds to the protruding height of the interface structure 105, which is at least one-sixth the height of the container 103. This provides a combination of a relatively large liquid volume container 103 and a relatively small profile interface structure 105, thereby contributing to further volumetric efficiency, for example, with regard to shelf storage and transport, and to printing systems equipped with the supply device. Furthermore, the relatively small profile interface structure 105 may be more suitable for relatively smaller liquid volumes and relatively smaller printers. For example, the first container size D1 is at least 6 cm, and the first interface size d1 of the protruding portion of the interface structure 105 is 20 mm or less. For example, the first container size D1 is at least 9 cm, and the first interface size d1 is 15 mm or less. For example, the first container size D1 is at least approximately 9.5 cm, and the first interface size d1 is approximately 13 mm or less.

[0111] For example, the profile height of interface structure 105 can be the first interface dimension d1 and the distance by which interface structure 105 (when assembled onto container 103) protrudes from the corresponding container side 113. The smaller profile height of interface structure 105 can refer to the relatively small first dimension d1 of interface structure 105, and the interface structure having a relatively small protrusion protruding from container 103. This profile height can span several interface components, including: the needle receiving portion 121 of liquid channel 117 (e.g., see...). Figure 11The interface structure 105 includes a liquid interface 105, a key pen 165, an integrated circuit 174, and the edge 154b of the forward push region 154a. For example, a fastening feature 157, including at least one of a gap 159 and a stop surface 163, located laterally on the outer side of the corresponding key pen 165, may also extend within the profile height or first dimension d1 of the interface structure 105. When assembled to the container 103, the liquid channel reservoir connection portion 129 may protrude beyond the profile height and enter the container 103. The interface structure 105 may have further protruding components extending beyond the profile height, for example, for attachment to the container, supporting a receiving station, or for other purposes.

[0112] In the example, the width (d3) of the interface structure 105 can be approximately 49 mm, and the width (D3) of the container 103 can be approximately 58 mm. The height (d1) of the interface structure 105 can be approximately 12 mm, and the height (D1) of the box can be approximately 10 cm. Therefore, the overall aspect ratio of the first dimension D1+d1 to the third dimension D3 of the supply device 101 can be 112:58, which can be approximately equal to 2:1 or 11:6. The length (d2) of the interface structure perpendicular to the height and width can be approximately 43 mm, and the length (D2) of the box can be equal to or greater than the protrusion range PP.

[0113] As described above, the exemplary supply device 101 of this disclosure has a relatively small aspect ratio. Therefore, in one example, the aspect ratio of the second container size D2 to the third container size D3 is at least 1:2, at least 1:3, or at least 1:4, that is, the second container size D2 may be at least two, three, or four times the third container size D3, wherein the second container size D2 may correspond to the length and the third container size D3 may correspond to the width.

[0114] In one example, the aspect ratio of the first dimension D1 to the third dimension D3 of container 103 is at least 3:2, or at least 5:3, or at least approximately 11:6. In another example, the aspect ratio of the total first dimension (or height) of the supply device (which may be the sum of the first container dimension D1 and the first interface dimension d1) to the third dimension D3 of container 103 (or the width of the supply device) is at least approximately 2:1. In some larger volume supply devices 101 with similar small aspect ratios, container 103 may have a relatively long shape, wherein the aspect ratio of the first container dimension D1 to the second container dimension D2 is 1:1 or less, or 2:3 or less, 1:2 or less, or 1:3 or less, where the smaller ratio refers to the smaller first dimension D1 relative to the larger second dimension D2.

[0115] like Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, the interface structure 105 can protrude from the side 113 in a direction parallel to the first dimension D1 of the container 103, wherein the interface dimensions d2 and d3 are smaller than the container dimensions D2 and D3, such that the interface structure 105 extends within the contour formed by the second container dimension D2 and the third container dimension D3, similar to Figure 4 Examples.

[0116] The liquid outlet of interface structure 105 includes a liquid channel 117. This liquid channel includes a liquid interface 115. The liquid interface 115 is located at the downstream end of the liquid channel 117 along the main flow direction. Figure 9 The diagram illustrates the central plane CP of container 103 and interface structure 105, which can be used as a virtual reference plane. The central plane CP may extend approximately through the middle of the third dimensions D3, d3 of container 103 and / or interface structure 105. The central plane CP extends parallel to the first dimensions D1, d1 and the second dimensions D2, d2 of container 103 and interface structure 105, wherein the liquid interface 115 is laterally offset from the central plane CP of interface structure 105 in one direction along the third interface dimension d3. The integrated circuit contact pad 175 is laterally offset from the central plane CP in another direction along the third interface dimension d3, which is the side of the central plane CP opposite to the liquid interface 115. It should be noted that in other examples, the plane parallel to the first dimensions D1, d1 and the second dimensions D2, d2 and between the liquid interface 115 and the contact pad array 175 need not pass precisely through the center of the supply device.

[0117] In the example, a first recess 171a is provided on the lateral side of the liquid channel needle receiving portion 121 to receive a key pen 165, and a second recess 171b is provided on the other lateral side of the liquid channel needle receiving portion 121 to receive another key pen 165 and an integrated circuit contact pad 175. Recesses 171a and 171b may have inlets on each lateral side of the liquid interface 115 and the front surface 154 of the interface structure, wherein the front surface 154 may be part of a liquid channel block extending between the recesses 171a and 171b, through which a liquid channel 117 extends. Recesses 171a and 171b have depth along the interface structure 105 from its protruding container side 113. The key pen 165 extends parallel to the second interface dimension d2.

[0118] Figure 10 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 The diagram illustrates an interface component based on an interface structure of some examples. Figure 10 Examples include the liquid interface 115 and the front pushing region 154b of the front portion 154 of the interface structure (also as...). Figure 9 The image shown is enlarged, and Figure 11and Figure 12 The figures show cross-sectional top views of a portion of the interface structure 105 and the receiving station 107 during the disconnection and connection phases of the interface components.

[0119] In the example, the liquid interface 115 includes a seal 120 for sealing the channel 117 surrounding the fluid needle upon insertion. The seal 120 may be an elastomeric material. The seal 120 may include a central internal channel along its central axis and the needle insertion direction, through which the needle protrudes when installed. The seal 120 may be a plug for insertion into the inner walls of the liquid interface 115 and the liquid channel needle receiving portion 121, extending along the length of the interface 115 and the channel portion 121. The seal 120 may be seated in a cylindrical or rounded fitting in the interface front portion 154 of the interface structure 105. The seal 120 may be forged to seal the liquid channel 117 and the interface edge 116. For example, during manufacturing, a sealing plug or other seal 120 is inserted into the liquid channel 117, after which the protruding ridge 118 of the edge 116 is pushed into a mushroom-shaped profile using an ultrasonic vibrating tool. The inner edge of the lip of the profile then secures the seal 120 and can also apply pressure to the seal 120 to achieve sufficient fluid tightness. Alternatively, adhesives and / or welding can be applied to establish a proper sealing structure in the interface structure 105.

[0120] The seal 120 may include a fragile membrane 122 at its center, for example downstream of its central internal channel, which is configured to open upon first needle insertion. The needle may pierce the membrane 122 upon insertion. The liquid channel needle receiving portion 121, the seal 120, the membrane 122, and the edge 116 may be centered around a single central axis, which, for illustrative purposes, is located at... Figure 8 The direction of the main liquid flow (DL) can be indicated. The depth of the seal 120 extends along this central axis, and the seal 120 is adapted to seal to the inserted needle along the central axis. In some cases, the seal 120 may push the humidifier 112 of the fluid needle during use. The seal 120 and the membrane 122 inhibit fluid / vapor transfer to seal the container 103 during transport or storage of the supply device 101, and to seal to the needle during needle insertion. Instead of the puncture-resistant membrane 122, the seal 120 may also include any suitable plug, label, film, or membrane (e.g., for tearing, removal, or puncture) adhered, welded, attached, or integrally molded onto the seal 120, which covers the internal passage of the seal 120 at the downstream end to seal the container and liquid passage before use. A separate cap or plug or other measures may be provided to seal the liquid passage 117 during transport and storage.

[0121] In this example, the edge 116 of the liquid interface 115 extends around the seal 120. The seal 120 is inserted into the liquid interface 115 and the channel pin receiving portion 121 of the liquid channel 117. The seal 120 may partially abut against the edge 116. The edge 116 may be rounded and extends around the central axis of the similarly rounded channel pin receiving portion 121 and the seal 120. The edge 116 may be part of the front portion 154 of the interface structure, adjacent to and surrounding the liquid interface 115. Before or after manufacturing, in one example, the edge 116 may be flush with the rest of the front portion 154, while in other examples, the edge 116 may include a protruding ridge 118. Figures 9 to 12 In the illustrated example, ridge 118 is in its pre-forging state, where ridge 118 is fully extended to abut against and / or around seal 120 forging, and where ridge 118 is relatively flattened after forging, which is not illustrated in the figures.

[0122] The front portion 154 and / or edge 116 of the interface can form the end of the second interface dimension d2. The front edges of the walls 139a, 137a defining the respective lateral sides 139 and / or distal sides 137 can extend at the same level as the front portion 154 of the interface, thereby forming a circumferential interface front edge, which can serve as a corresponding entrance to the recesses 171a, 171b. The front portion 154 of the interface, adjacent to and / or partially surrounding the interface edge 116, can push against the protective structure 110 of the pin during use. In various examples, the protective structure of the pin may include a valve, plate, sleeve, slide, etc.

[0123] The illustrated exemplary protective structure 110 includes a plate or sleeve for protecting the fluid needle from mechanical damage and can be retracted relative to the needle by a thrust of the protective structure against the interface front 154 upon insertion of the supply device 101. In the illustrated example, the protective structure 110 protecting the needle is separate from the moisturizing element 112, wherein the protective structure 110 can be moved via the interface front 154, such as a push region 154a of the front 154, and the moisturizing element 112 can be moved independently via the protective structure 110 and / or the interface 115. The moisturizing element 112 can be adapted to keep the fluid needle moist and / or prevent leakage. In other exemplary receiving stations, the protective structure 110 and the moisturizing element 112 can move together as a single connected structure. In still other exemplary receiving stations, only one of the protective structure 110 and the moisturizing element 112 is provided. The front push region 154a can be attached to or replace the protective structure 110 for pushing against the moisturizing element 112 to release the needle 109.

[0124] In the illustrated example, the front portion 154 of the interface extends between recesses 171a and 171b. The distal edge 154c of this front portion extends further toward the lateral side to define an inlet to recesses 171a and 171b between the front portion 154 and the lateral side 139. The front portion 154 extends at least partially around and adjacent to the liquid interface 115. The front portion 154 may be a straight surface that is substantially perpendicular to the main liquid flow direction DL and parallel to the first interface dimension d1 and the third interface dimension d3.

[0125] The front portion 154 of the interface includes a push region 154a, which can be defined by a wall portion located between the liquid interface edge 116 and the container 103, at least when the interface structure 105 is assembled onto the container 103. The wall portion defining the front push region 154a can be part of a structure integrally molded with the liquid channel wall 117b, which extends from the support wall 137a and has recesses 171a, 171b on both sides (e.g., see...). Figure 26 The push region 154a includes and terminates on the outer edge 154b of the front portion 154 of the interface structure 105, and in the illustrated example terminates on the container side 113. The push region 154a is adapted to rearward the protective structure 110 during insertion and / or in the installed condition. The push region 154a may extend at least partially between the liquid interface edge 116 and the container 103. In some examples, a recess, channel, or recess may be provided in the front portion 154 between the liquid interface edge 116 and the push region edge 154b, wherein the push region 154a may consist only of the edge 154b, which may be sufficient to serve as a push region to abut against the protective structure 110 (e.g., see...). Figure 48 ).

[0126] The interface structure 105 can have a relatively small profile. Thus, in one example, the height HC of the push region 154a along the first interface dimension d1 (where the height HC represents the minimum distance between the liquid interface edge 116 and the container 103 or the front edge 154b of the interface) is less than the inner diameter D116 of the liquid interface edge 116, or less than the outer diameter when the seal 120 is inserted into the outlet interface 115; for example, the height HC is less than half of one of the diameters D116. The inner and outer diameters can be the same, such that either or both of these diameters can be used as a reference to indicate the relatively small height of the push region 154a, and consequently, the height of the relatively small profile of the interface structure 105. For clarity, the liquid interface edge 116 can be defined by (i) the plastic wall of the needle receiving portion 121 of the liquid channel 117 and (ii) the surface of the interface front portion 154. In some examples, it may be difficult to precisely determine the liquid interface edge 116 because the edge may be rounded. In such an example, the insertion portion of the seal 120 can be used under the insertion condition, at a point near the front of the interface 154, but within the outer diameter of the liquid channel 117. For example, the height HC of the push region 154a between the edges 116, 154b is equal to or less than approximately 6 mm, equal to or less than approximately 5 mm, equal to or less than approximately 4 mm, or equal to or less than approximately 3 mm. For example, in a relative sense, the height HC of the front push region 154a can be less than half the diameter of the liquid outlet interface edge 116. The relatively small front push region 154a can be sufficient to move the protective structure relative to the needle while still contributing to a relatively small profile interface structure. For example, the push region 154a need not be a flat front wall, but can instead consist only of an edge (e.g., front edge 154b) or a rounded shape sufficient to push the protective structure 110 to release the needle.

[0127] exist Figure 11 In the example, the front portion 154 of the interface causes the protective structure 110 to be pushed rearward relative to the needle 109 to expose the needle 109, thereby facilitating insertion of the needle 109 into the liquid interface 115. For example, the pushing region 154a of the front portion 154 first pushes the protective structure 110, and then the protective structure 110 itself, or the front portion 154, or the seal 120 pushes the moisturizing member 112. The latter in Figure 12 The diagram shows that interface structure 105 and... Figure 11 The position has already moved in the liquid output direction DL, thereby pushing region 154a, the protective structure 110 and the moisturizing element 112 have moved rearward relative to the needle 109, thereby pulling out the needle 109. Figure 12 In the middle, the needle 109 has pierced the sealing film 122 and a fluid connection has been established between the liquid channel 117 and the needle 109.

[0128] In one example, the distal side 137 spans the range of the third interface dimension d3. A support wall 137a of the interface structure 105 may define the distal side 137. The support wall 137a may be partially used, for example, to guide and support the supply device 101 into the receiving station via its intermediate guide surfaces 143, 143b, 147, which may form a portion of the support wall 137a. A portion of the support wall 137a may support the integrated circuit 174. A relatively shallow cut may be made in the support wall 137a to allow the integrated circuit 174 to be seated therein. For example, the shallow cut may be less than 2 mm deep or less than 1 mm deep. The support wall 137a may have a distal front edge 154c along the third interface dimension d3, opposite to the front edge 154b of the push region, with the first interface dimension d1 extending between these opposite front edges 154b, 154c.

[0129] Figure 11 The view reveals the integrated circuit contact pad 175 located laterally adjacent to the liquid interface 115 and within the corresponding recess 171b. The pad 175 is arranged on a line parallel to the third interface dimension d3 and within a virtual reference plane parallel to the second interface dimension d2 and the third interface dimension d3. In the example, the contact pad 175 is arranged on one side of the central plane CP, while the liquid interface 115, or the centerline axis of the liquid interface 115, is arranged on the opposite side of the central plane CP. Figure 12 As shown, during connection, the data connector 173 of the receiving station 107 enters the recess 171b to connect to the integrated circuit contact pad 175.

[0130] Figure 13 and Figure 14 Examples of interface structures 105 extending from the corresponding container 103 are illustrated in perspective and front views, respectively. Interface structure 105 can interact with... Figures 5 to 12 The interface structure shown in Figure 105 is the same. Figure 15 The diagram shows... Figure 13 and Figure 14 An example of the details of the intermediate bootstrap of interface structure 105. Figure 16 An example illustrating the details of the lateral guide (near the front of the interface structure 105) and the fastening feature 157 of the interface structure 105 is shown.

[0131] exist Figures 13 to 16 In the illustrated example, interface structure 105 includes a lateral guide feature 138 at its lateral outer side 139 and a middle guide feature 140 at its distal side 137. Figure 17 The illustration shows how the lateral guide feature 138 and the intermediate guide feature 140 can be connected to the corresponding lateral guide rail 138A and intermediate guide rail 140A of the receiving station 107. Figure 17 The diagram also illustrates how the container support wall 113 and the transverse outer wall 151 can receive rough guidance from the corresponding wall of the receiving station 107.

[0132] from Figure 13 As can be seen, the guide features 138 and 140 can be relatively elongated, for example, extending along at least 1 cm, 2 cm, 3 cm, or 4 cm of the second interface dimension d2, for example, at least 50%, at least 75%, or most or all of the length of the second interface dimension d2. The guide features 138 and 140 are used to guide the interface structure 105 relative to the receiving station to align the fluid interface. For example, the receiving station may include corresponding lateral guide rails 138A and / or intermediate guide rails 140A. Figure 17 , Figure 20 It should be noted that in other examples, at least one of the guide features 138, 140 may be attached to or replaced by a key pen 165 for guidance.

[0133] In the illustrated example, the lateral guide feature 138 includes a first lateral guide surface 141, 141b and a second lateral guide surface 145 at an angle to each other. As will be explained, the first lateral guide surface 141, 141b and the second lateral guide surface 145 define a lateral guide groove 142 in the side wall 139. The lateral sidewall 139a may include at least one first lateral guide surface 141, 141b for facilitating the positioning of the liquid inlet 115 relative to the liquid needle of the receiving station in a direction parallel to a third interface dimension d3; and / or at least one second lateral guide surface 145 for facilitating the positioning of the liquid inlet 115 relative to the needle of the receiving station in a direction parallel to a first interface dimension d1. Accordingly, in the example where the supply device 101 is mounted generally horizontally, the at least one first lateral guide surface 141, 141b may facilitate the horizontal positioning of the liquid inlet 115, and the at least one second lateral guide surface 145 may facilitate vertical positioning.

[0134] The first lateral guide surfaces 141, 141b may extend substantially parallel to the first interface dimension d1 and the second interface dimension d2. The first lateral guide surfaces 141, 141b may be substantially flat in a plane substantially parallel to the first interface dimension d1 and the second interface dimension d2, wherein substantially parallel may, for example, include a difference of 10 degrees or less from absolute parallelism. The first lateral guide surfaces 141, 141b may be elongated along the second interface dimension d2, i.e., relatively longer along the second interface dimension d2 and relatively shorter along the first interface dimension d1. During the installation of the supply device 101, with the interface structure 105 projecting downwards from the bottom 113, the first lateral guide surfaces 141, 141b may facilitate the substantially horizontal positioning of the liquid interface 115 relative to the liquid input end of the receiving station.

[0135] A single lateral sidewall 139 may have a plurality of first lateral guide surfaces 141, 141b at multiple levels along a third interface dimension d3. The lateral guide feature 138 may include two first lateral guide outer surfaces 141 and one first lateral guide inner surface 141b, the inner surface being offset relative to the first lateral guide outer surfaces 141 in an inward direction along the third interface dimension d3. The first lateral guide inner surface 141b may extend between the two first lateral guide outer surfaces 141. The first lateral guide outer surfaces 141 and the first lateral guide inner surface 141b may at least substantially span the first interface dimension d1. In some examples, only the first lateral guide inner surface 141b may be provided without the first lateral guide outer surfaces 141, or only one first lateral guide outer surface 141 and one first lateral guide inner surface 141b may be provided, which may be sufficient to position the liquid interface 115 along the first interface dimension d1 and / or the third interface dimension d3. In other examples, a single first lateral guide inner surface 141b or first lateral guide outer surface 141 may be sufficient for guiding and positioning (e.g., together with intermediate guide feature 140). In yet another example, only one of the lateral guide feature 138 and intermediate guide feature 140 is provided.

[0136] In the illustrated orientation, support wall 137a defines the bottom of interface structure 105. Support wall 137a may include, for example, an intermediate guide feature 140 adjacent to liquid interface 115. Intermediate guide feature 140 may include at least one first intermediate guide surface 143, 143b for facilitating positioning of liquid interface 115 relative to liquid needle while restricting degrees of freedom of movement in a direction along a first interface dimension d1; and / or at least one second intermediate guide surface 147 for facilitating positioning of liquid interface relative to liquid needle while restricting degrees of freedom of movement in a direction along a third interface dimension d3. The at least one first intermediate guide surface 143, 143b may extend parallel to the second interface dimension d2 and the third interface dimension d3. The at least one second intermediate guide surface 147 may extend parallel to the first interface dimension d1 and the second interface dimension d2.

[0137] In one example, the first intermediate guide surfaces 143, 143b include an intermediate guide inner surface 143b that may extend inward relative to the outer surface of the distal 137; and two intermediate guide outer surfaces 143 that may define the outer surface of the distal 137. Therefore, the first intermediate guide surfaces 143, 143b may extend at multiple levels along the first interface dimension d1. The first intermediate guide inner surface 143b is adapted to receive and slide on a mating guide of the receiving station. The first intermediate guide inner surface 143b may be flat along a plane generally parallel to the second interface dimension d2 and the third interface dimension d3. The first intermediate guide inner surface 143b may be relatively narrow and elongated, i.e., relatively long along the second interface dimension d2 and relatively short along the third interface dimension d3.

[0138] A first intermediate guide inner surface 143b may extend between two first intermediate guide outer surfaces 143. The first intermediate guide inner surface 143b may extend adjacent to the liquid interface 115 to facilitate positioning of the interface 115 relative to the pin 109. The first intermediate guide outer surfaces 143 and the first intermediate guide inner surface 143b may together at least substantially span the main portion of the third interface dimension d3. In some examples, only the first intermediate guide inner surface 143b may be provided without the first intermediate guide outer surfaces 143, or only one first lateral guide outer surface 143 and one first lateral guide inner surface 143b may be provided, which may be sufficient to position the liquid interface 115 along the first interface dimension d1.

[0139] During the installation of the supply device 101, with the interface structure 105 protruding downward from the bottom 113, the first intermediate guide surfaces 143, 143b can facilitate the vertical positioning of the liquid interface 115 relative to the liquid input end of the receiving station, and the first lateral guide surfaces 141, 141b can facilitate the horizontal positioning of the liquid interface 115.

[0140] In the illustrated example, the lateral side 139 further includes at least one second lateral guide surface 145 at at least one lateral outer surface of the interface structure 105, for example, a pair of opposite second lateral guide surfaces 145 on each lateral side, for restricting the degrees of freedom of the interface structure 105 in the direction along the first interface dimension d1. The second lateral guide surface 145 may be adjacent to and at an angle to the at least one first lateral guide surface 141, 141b. The angle may be approximately right-angled, but not necessarily precise, for example, to provide lead-in, manufacturing tolerances, or other reasons, wherein the angle between the first lateral guide surface 141 and the second lateral guide surface 145 may be approximately between 80 degrees and 100 degrees. The at least one second lateral guide surface 145 may be disposed between and along opposite first lateral guide outer surfaces 141 on the same lateral side 139. The at least one second lateral guide surface 145 may be disposed along the first lateral guide inner surface 141b. The second lateral guide surface 145 may extend approximately parallel to the second interface size d2 and the third interface size d3, but not necessarily precisely parallel, to achieve the function of restricting the degrees of freedom of movement in the direction along the first interface size d1.

[0141] For example, the second lateral guide surface 145 may be substantially flat, for example, along a plane generally parallel to the second interface dimension d2 and the third interface dimension d3, wherein "generally parallel" can include a difference of 10 degrees from "absolutely parallel". The second lateral guide surface 145 may be elongated, i.e., relatively long along the second interface dimension d2 and relatively short along the third interface dimension d3. (As in...) Figure 16 The inlet ramp 155 can be best viewed from the front inlet, which is located close to the second lateral guide surface 145.

[0142] A pair of opposing second lateral guide surfaces 145 may extend along and on both sides of a first lateral guide inner surface 141b, for example, such that the pair of second lateral guide surfaces 145 and the first lateral guide inner surface 141b together form a lateral guide groove 142. In another example, the groove may extend through the sidewall 139 without extending through the first lateral guide inner surface 141b. A first lateral guide outer surface 141 may extend parallel to the first interface dimension d1 at the outside of the groove 142. The second lateral guide surfaces 145 and the first lateral guide surfaces 141, 141b at the opposing lateral sides 139 may facilitate guiding and translating the interface structure 105 in a direction along the second interface dimension d2, while limiting translation and rotation along and about other axes. The first lateral guide surfaces 141, 141b and / or the second lateral guide surfaces 145 may span a major portion of the second dimension d2 of the interface structure 105, such as at least 50%, at least 75%, or most or all of the second dimension d2. One or more openings or interruptions, such as the guide slope 155 or the gap 159, can be provided in the guide surfaces 141 and 145.

[0143] In other examples, a gap groove may be provided at the lateral side 139 to separate it from the corresponding guide rail, thereby facilitating the insertion of the interface structure 105 into the receiving station 107 without the guidance of the guide rail. In such an example, guidance (if any) may be obtained through the wall of the support structure 135 and / or other sides or edges of the interface structure 105 and / or the key pen 165. Such a gap groove may be defined by the opposite edge of the lateral side 139, or between the corresponding lateral edge and the container side 113 from which the interface structure 105 protrudes.

[0144] The intermediate guide feature 140 may be provided with at least one second intermediate guide surface 147 for positioning the interface structure 105 relative to the receiving station 107, while restricting the degree of freedom of movement of the interface structure 105 in the direction along the third interface dimension d3. The second intermediate guide surface 147 may be at an angle relative to the first intermediate guide surfaces 143, 143b. For example, such an angle may be approximately right angle, which may include a certain margin or tolerance. For example, the angle may be approximately between 80 degrees and 100 degrees. A pair of opposing second intermediate guide surfaces 147 may be provided to form a groove 144. The second intermediate guide surfaces 147 may be substantially flat, for example, along a plane that is approximately parallel to the first interface dimension d1 and the second interface dimension d2, where approximately parallel may include a difference of 10 degrees or less from exact parallelism. The second intermediate guide surfaces 147 may have a relatively elongated and narrow shape, that is, relatively long along the second interface dimension d2 and relatively short along the first interface dimension d1.

[0145] These opposing second intermediate guide surfaces 147 can extend along and on both sides of the first intermediate guide inner surface 143b, such that the first intermediate guide inner surface 143b and the second intermediate guide surfaces together form an intermediate guide groove 144 in the support wall 137a of the interface structure 105. However, without the first intermediate guide inner surface 143b, the intermediate guide groove 144 can extend further inward. The first intermediate guide outer surface 143 can extend parallel to the third interface dimension d3 on both sides of the groove 144.

[0146] In another example (not shown), an intermediate gap slot is provided at the distal end 137, but this slot is used to separate from the corresponding guide rail, thereby facilitating the full insertion of the interface structure 105 into the receiving station 107 while avoiding guidance along the corresponding guide rail. For example, with Figure 14 In contrast, the opposite edges of the gap groove may correspond to the second intermediate guide surface 147, wherein the distance between the opposite edges of the gap groove may be greater than the distance between the opposite second intermediate guide surfaces 147. Guidance (if any) may be obtained through the walls of the support structure 135 on other sides or edges of the interface structure 105.

[0147] In one example, the intermediate guide feature 140 or gap intersects with a virtual reference plane P0 parallel to the first interface size d1 and the second interface size d2, wherein plane P0 extends between the center of the liquid interface 115 and the corresponding key pen 165, while the integrated contact pad 175 extends on another lateral side of the liquid interface 115 opposite to plane P0.

[0148] As in Figure 14 and Figure 15 As best viewed, one of the pair of second intermediate guide surfaces 147 (i.e., the one closer to the liquid channel 117 and / or interface 115) along the first interface dimension d1 can be shorter than the opposing second intermediate guide surfaces 147 of the pair. The second intermediate guide surface 147 closer to the liquid channel needle receiving portion 121 can be narrower to facilitate obtaining a sufficiently thick liquid channel wall 117b. Figure 22Accordingly, in the illustrated example, the intermediate guide groove 144 may include a chamfer 148 in its cross-section, between the corresponding first intermediate guide surface 143b and the second intermediate guide surface 147, and along at least a portion of the length of the guide surfaces 143b, 147 adjacent to and parallel to the liquid channel 117, to facilitate the space of the channel wall without impeding the guiding and liquid interface positioning function of the intermediate guide feature 140. Thus, the intermediate guide feature 140 may include generally perpendicular guide surfaces 143b, 147, including a pair of opposing generally parallel guide surfaces 147 perpendicular to the inner guide surface 143b, wherein the chamfer 148 defines a third guide surface that extends at an angle between and adjacent to the inner guide surface 143b of the liquid channel 117, and between one of the parallel guide surfaces 147.

[0149] The aforementioned guide features 138, 140 and / or surfaces 141, 141b, 143, 143b, 145, 147 may be elongated and / or flat and flush in the direction of the second interface dimension d2 to facilitate mounting of the interface structure 105 relative to a corresponding straight mating guide of the receiving station. Some or all of the aforementioned guide surfaces 141, 141b, 143, 143b, 145, 147 may be provided to facilitate guiding and translating the interface structure 105 along an axis parallel to the needle insertion direction NI, while limiting translation and rotation along and about other axes, thereby aligning and fluidly connecting the liquid interface 115 with at least one needle 119. In one example, the interface structure may include only one or two of the correspondingly illustrated lateral guide features 138 and intermediate guide features 140. In one example, during installation, the second lateral guide surface 145 is primarily used to align the interface structure 105 along the first dimensions d1, D1, and the second intermediate guide surface 147 is primarily used to align along the third dimensions d3, D3. In this sub-example, at least one of the other guide surfaces (i.e., the first lateral guide surfaces 141, 141b and the first intermediate guide surfaces 143, 143b) does not need to engage with the receiving station guide surfaces or tracks 138A, 140A during installation, or can be omitted from the interface structure design 105. In another example, the lateral guide features 138 and / or the intermediate guide features 140 may include only one or two corresponding second lateral guide surfaces 145 or second intermediate guide surfaces 147, without the first lateral guide surfaces 141, 141b or the first intermediate guide surfaces 143, 143b, which may be sufficient for guidance and positioning in some cases. In other examples, the corresponding guide features 138, 140 and / or guide grooves 142, 144 may include edges that are not necessarily perfectly flat and straight surfaces, provided that the second interface dimension d2 may be elongated.

[0150] In the example, the first lateral guide surfaces 141, 141b are generally parallel to the second intermediate guide surface 147. In the example, the first lateral guide surfaces 141, 141b and / or the second intermediate guide surface 147 are generally parallel to the lateral outer wall 151 of the container 3. In the example, the first intermediate guide surfaces 143, 143b are generally parallel to the second lateral guide surface 145. In the example, the first intermediate guide surfaces 143, 143b and / or the second lateral guide surface 145 are generally parallel to the side 113 of the container 103 from which the interface structure 105 protrudes, and / or generally parallel to the opposite side 132 of the container 103 opposite to the side 113 from which the interface structure 105 protrudes. Some of these aspects can help to first roughly align the container 103 and then more precisely align the interface structure 105, as previously explained.

[0151] To facilitate proper engagement, one or each guide feature 138, 140 may be provided with an insertion feature. For example, such as Figure 16 As shown, the lateral guide feature 138 includes a lateral inlet feature 153 near the front of the interface structure 105 (indicated by 154 in this view) for inletting the remainder of the guide feature 138 relative to an external guide track. In the illustrated example, inlet ramps 155 are provided at the front of the two lateral guide slots 142. The inlet ramps 155 are defined by opposing lateral guide surfaces that diverge horizontally from the rear to the front of the interface structure. The inlet ramps 155 are surfaces that are bent or inclined relative to the tail portion of the lateral guide feature 138. The tail portion includes a second lateral guide surface 145 that can be joined to the ramps 155. The inlet ramps 155 may be at an angle relative to the first lateral guide surfaces 141, 141b, for example, approximately right angle, or for example, between approximately 80 degrees and 100 degrees relative to the first lateral guide surfaces 141, 141b. In the example, only one lateral inlet ramp 155 is provided on one lateral side 139.

[0152] Relatively fine alignment can be facilitated by the guide surfaces 141, 141b, 143, 143b, 145, 147 of the interface structure 105, for example by means of corresponding guide rails and / or surfaces of the receiving station. In a stepped but relatively smooth form, the protrusion 123 can first engage with the receiving station to provide relatively coarse alignment, followed by engagement of the inlet feature 153, and then by guide features 138, 140 to provide finer alignment. For example, the lateral inlet feature 153 and guide feature 138 can provide initial fine alignment, while the intermediate guide feature 140 can again allow for finer alignment. Therefore, proper needle insertion can be achieved with a relatively low risk of needle breakage. The intermediate guide feature 140 extends adjacent to and along the liquid interface 115 and channel 117 to facilitate relatively precise needle insertion. The intermediate guide feature 140 can be connected to the guide rail after the other guide features 138 are connected to provide final and optimal alignment. In some cases, the fluid volume and associated weight of the supply device 101 may be relatively large, which increases the risk of fluid needle breakage, especially in cases of relatively uncontrolled push insertion. However, this does not necessarily prevent the supply device 101 in some examples of this disclosure from easily sliding into a relatively precise fluid connection with the receiving station. In still other examples, some, but not all, of the disclosed guide features 138, 140 are provided, and some user control is required to establish the fluid connection.

[0153] Figure 17AA front view illustration shows the guide features 138, 140 of the interface structure 105, wherein the guide features 138, 140 are adapted to restrict the degree of freedom of movement in the direction along the third interface dimension d3. For example, the guide features for restricting the degree of freedom of movement in the direction along the third interface dimension d3 include at least one of the following: (i) a first lateral guide inner surface 141b; (ii) a first lateral guide outer surface 141b; and (iii) a second intermediate guide surface 147. In one example, these surfaces 141, 141b, 147 may each be relatively elongated along the second interface dimension d2 and may be defined by a ridge or flat surface of the guide surface of the engaging receiving station. A distinction can be made between guide features for restricting movement in one direction along the third interface dimension d3 and guide features for restricting movement in the opposite direction along the third dimension d3, which are... Figure 17A The diagram is illustrated using solid and dashed lines. In one example, the interface structure 105 includes at least two guide surfaces (e.g., 141, 141b, 147 shown in dashed lines) for limiting movement in one direction along the third interface dimension d3, and at least two guide surfaces (e.g., 141, 141b, 147 shown in solid lines) for limiting movement in the opposite direction along the third interface dimension d3.

[0154] Figure 17B A front view illustration shows the guide features 138, 140 of the interface structure 105, wherein the guide features 138, 140 are adapted to restrict the degree of freedom of movement in the direction along the first interface dimension d1. For example, the guide features for restricting the degree of freedom of movement in the direction along the first interface dimension d1 include at least one of: (i) a second lateral guide surface 145; (ii) a first intermediate guide inner surface 143b; and (iii) a first intermediate guide outer surface 143. In one example, these surfaces 145, 143b, 143 may each be relatively elongated along the second interface dimension d2 and may be defined by a ridge or flat surface of the guide surface of the engaging receiving station. Figure 17BIn the diagram, a distinction can be made between guide features for limiting movement in one direction along the first interface dimension d1 and guide features for limiting movement in the opposite direction along the first interface dimension d1, illustrated by solid and dashed lines. In one example, interface structure 105 includes at least two guide surfaces (e.g., 145, 143, 143b shown in solid lines) for limiting movement in one direction, and at least two guide surfaces (e.g., 145 shown in dashed lines) for limiting movement in the opposite direction. In one example, the interface structure may include a lateral guide surface 145 adapted to limit movement of interface structure 105 in a direction opposite to the protruding direction of interface structure 105, at least when in contact with a corresponding lateral guide rail.

[0155] Figure 18 The figure shows a top cross-sectional view of the system, in which an exemplary interface structure 105 is connected to a receiving station. The exemplary interface structure 105 includes a fastening feature 157, and also... Figure 8 and Figure 16 As shown. The fastening feature 157 can help to operatively install the supply device to the receiving station, and in some cases, to secure the supply device to the receiving station.

[0156] In these figures, the fastening feature 157 includes a gap 159, which is in the form of an opening through a transverse wall defining a transverse side 139, into which a corresponding fastening element of the receiving station 107 can protrude. This fastening element can be a latch or a positioning element. For example, one fastening feature 157 can be provided at one transverse side 139, or two fastening features 157 can be provided at opposite transverse sides 139. The gap 159 can be located near the front of the interface structure 105, next to the key pen 165. In the illustrated example, the protruding fastening element is a hook 161. However, depending on the application, fastening elements other than hooks can be used to facilitate securing the supply device to the receiving station. These fastening elements can include blocking features (as in the case of the hook 161 illustrated), audible or tangible feedback features, triggers, or switch features, etc. That is, while in one example the fastening element can directly lock the interface structure to the receiving station, in other examples the fastening element may simply trigger a switch or provide some feedback functionality.

[0157] In the illustrated example, a fastening feature 157 is disposed in the lateral guide feature 138. A gap 159 may be defined by a cut in the lateral side 139, for example in a slot 142 and / or through the inner surface 141b of the first lateral guide. In the illustrated example, the gap 159 is a through-hole in the corresponding sidewall opening toward the corresponding recesses 171a, 171b. In other examples, instead of a through-hole, the gap 159 may be a recess. Each lateral side 139 may include a fastening feature 157 for interacting with fastening elements at both sides 139. The gap 159 may facilitate allowing a biased fastening element 161 to partially protrude into the gap 159.

[0158] The fastening feature 157 may further include a stop surface 163, hereinafter also referred to as a stop, adjacent to the gap 159. The stop 163 may be defined by the edge of the gap 159 on the side of the gap 159 closest to the front edge of the interface structure 105. The stop 163 is provided... Figure 16 The stop 163 is located near the front of the interface structure indicated by 154, for example, next to the distal portion of the key pen 165. The stop 163 may be part of a lateral front wall portion 141b that defines the stop and the edge of the front portion of the interface structure 105 at the entrance of the corresponding recess. The stop surface 163 may extend at an angle relative to the adjacent surface of the corresponding wall portion 141b of the lateral side 139. In one exemplary system, the stop 163 provides resistance against movement of the interface structure 105 relative to a fastening element. In another exemplary system, the stop 163 and / or the lateral front wall portion 163a may actuate a finger, trigger, or switch, etc., to switch to an operating mode or provide feedback.

[0159] like Figure 16 As seen, the front lateral sidewall portion 163a can extend between and define the stop 163 and the edge surrounding the front portion. The front lateral sidewall portion 163a can extend beside the distal portion of the key pen 165, thereby providing some protection for the key pen 165 against breakage due to drops. The front lateral sidewall portion 163a can extend between the guide ramps 155.

[0160] exist Figure 18In the illustrated example, the fastening element is hook 161. Hook 161 is shown protruding through gap 159. As explained below, this position of hook 161 can be caused by a key pen 165 that pushes the actuator of the receiving station, which in turn triggers hook 161 via a mechanism (hereinafter referred to as the transmission mechanism) arranged to transmit translation to hook 161. In this illustration, a distance is shown between hook 161 and stop 163, showing the moment just before the operator manually releases supply device 101 to complete insertion, when supply device 101 is fully pushed into the receiving station. After such release, the thrust of the bias spring causes stop 163 to move against hook 161 in an outward direction away from the receiving station. Therefore, hook 161 counteracts the spring's reaction force F( Figure 21 This prevents the supply device 101 from being removed or ejected, while the supply device 101 remains fluidly connected. Subsequently, the retraction of the hook 161 will cause the supply device 101 to automatically eject.

[0161] The next manual push of the rear 125 of the supply device 101 pushes the key pen 165 against the actuator, which again triggers the transmission mechanism to release the hook 161 relative to the stop 163 and the gap 159, thereby pulling the hook 161 out of the gap 159. This unlocks the interface structure 105, causing the bias spring to extend and push the interface structure 105 out of the receiving station 105.

[0162] The stop surface is a portion of the hook 161 that will engage and abut against. This engagement surface of the stop 163 may be relatively flat and extend relative to the corresponding lateral side surface 141b at an angle α, for example at at least approximately 90 degrees, or slightly greater than 90 degrees, for example at at least approximately 91 degrees. An angle α greater than 90 degrees allows for additional retention of the hook 161, thereby inhibiting slippage of the hook 161 relative to the stop 163, or at least partially inhibiting accidental disengagement of the hook 161 to avoid accidental ejection of the interface structure 105.

[0163] Other exemplary supply devices may not have fastening features. In one example, the receiving station may have a hook, gripper, or arm, etc., to secure the supply device 101 against the rear of the device. In another example, the supply device 101 is in a suspended condition (e.g., see...). Figure 43 The supply device is installed on the receiving station, where fluid connection can be adequately ensured by the weight of the supply source itself, by manual securing, or by insufficient pressure generated between the liquid interfaces by the printer pump. In other examples, the supply device may include a gap or gap groove to separate it from the guide rails and hooks of the receiving station.

[0164] Other exemplary supply devices may employ other types of fastening features besides the explained fastening feature 157. These other types of fastening features may suitably maintain the fluid connection between the supply device and the liquid inlet. For example, supply device 101 may be provided with a similar fastening feature 157, but at a different location, such as at the distal end 137 of interface structure 105. For example, the supply device may be provided with hooks, grippers, or tapping fingers for hooking or releasing relative to the receiving station, or with high-friction surfaces, such as elastomeric pads, for engaging with the wall pressure of the receiving station.

[0165] Figure 19 An exemplary interface structure 105 protruding from the corresponding side 113 of container 103 is illustrated in perspective view. Figure 20 A portion of an exemplary receiving station 107 for an exemplary interface structure 105 is illustrated. The humidifier 112 has been omitted from this figure. Figure 21 The following example is illustrated in a cross-sectional top view: where the interface structure 105 and the receiving station 107 are in a secured and fluidly connected condition. See Appendix for details. Figures 19 to 21 To explain certain functions and features related to the extended key pen 165 in some examples of this disclosure.

[0166] The key pen 165 of this disclosure may have a generally longitudinal shape, for example, extending at least approximately 10 mm, at least approximately 12 mm, at least approximately 15 mm, at least approximately 20 mm, or at least approximately 23 mm along the longitudinal axis Ck. In a first, broader definition of this disclosure, the key pen has a "key-locking" function because it passes through the key slot of the printer to act on an actuator, such as a switch and / or actuation device. In another example, the key pen also has a liquid type (e.g., ink or liquid) differentiation function because it allows connection to a corresponding receiving station via a matching key slot, while being prevented from connecting to a receiving station due to a non-matching key slot. In other examples, the key pen may be adapted to have this differentiation function without necessarily having an actuation function. As illustrated throughout this disclosure with reference to the various exemplary figures, the key pen may have different shapes, ranging from relatively simple protruding pins to shapes with more complex cross-sections.

[0167] In the illustrated example, interface structure 105 includes a pair of key pens 165. The key pens 165 extend within a second interface dimension d2, defined by opposite outer lateral sides 139. Accordingly, the key pens 165 extend within the container dimension D2. Compared to a single key pen, a pair of key pens 165 can facilitate the distribution and / or balancing of forces used to actuate the corresponding fastening elements. The corresponding actuator actuated by the key pens 165 can receive the actuating force in a balanced or distributed manner. Opposite key pens 165 can facilitate better guidance and / or alignment of interface structure 105 and liquid interface 115. More than two key pens may be provided, for example, more than one key pen on each side of the liquid channel 117. Interface structure 105 may also include a pair of fastening features 157, each fastening feature located at the corresponding lateral side 139, adjacent to each key pen 165. In other examples, interface structure 105 may include only a single key pen 165 or include more than two key pens 165.

[0168] The key pen 165 may extend from the base 169, such as a base wall. The base 169 may be a wall, a foot, or a post. For example, the base 169 may be a wall or a foot at the deep end of the corresponding recesses 171a, 171b in which the key pen 165 extends. The base 169 may be offset in a rearward direction relative to the front portion 154 of the interface along the pin insertion direction NI.

[0169] The key pen 165 may extend generally parallel to the second interface dimension d2. The key pen 165 may extend generally parallel to the corresponding side 113 of the container 103 from which the interface structure 105 protrudes (e.g., below the bottom of the container 103). The container side 113 may be relatively planar, and the key pen 165 may extend parallel to that side 113. Figures 19 to 21 In this configuration, at least one key pen 165 extends along its longitudinal axis Ck, which is substantially parallel to the needle insertion direction NI, the main liquid flow direction DL, the second interface size d2, and / or the second container size D2. The longitudinal axis Ck of the key pen 165 may represent the axis along which the key pen extends. The longitudinal axis Ck may be the central axis of the key pen 165. The key pen 165 extends, for example, substantially longitudinally on the opposite side of the liquid channel 117 and / or the liquid interface 115, which is substantially parallel to the central axis of the needle receiving portion 121 of the liquid channel 117 and / or the central axis of the seal 120.

[0170] Along the third interface dimension d3, the distance between the first key pen 165 and the liquid channel needle receiving portion 121 can be greater than the distance between the opposite second key pen 165 and the liquid channel needle receiving portion 121. This distance can be defined by the distance between the axis representing the needle insertion direction NI and the longitudinal axis Ck along which the key pen 165 extends. The integrated circuit 174 and / or its contact pad 175 extend between the first key pen 165 and the liquid channel needle receiving portion 121. The greater distance facilitates the passage of the data connector 173 between the first key pen 165 and the molded structure of the front push region 154a and the liquid channel wall 117b.

[0171] The key pen 165 is adapted to be inserted into the corresponding key slot 167 of the receiver station 107. Figure 20 In the context of this, the key slot 167 can be adapted to help block non-corresponding key pens 165, preventing incompatible printing liquid from connecting to the receiving station 107, thereby preventing contamination of the liquid needle 109 or other liquid channels downstream of the needle 109 with incompatible liquid types. Figure 20 In the example, key slot 167 has a Y-shaped shape when oriented in a predetermined orientation, which is intended to receive only key pens 165 with a corresponding cross-section and a corresponding orientation. Other key slots 167 may have, for example, a T-shape, V-shape, L-shape, I-shape, X-shape, or one or more dot-shaped or other geometric shapes.

[0172] In some examples, a master key pen can be configured to connect to different key slots 167, even if the purpose of these key slots is to distinguish the individual key pens. The master key pen can be configured to serve as a working fluid supply source or simply as an alternative solution to color-coded key pens, and falls within the definition of "key pen" in this disclosure.

[0173] The key pen 165 can be adapted to a corresponding actuator for actuating the associated key slot component. Suitable actuators for the receiving station may include electrical switches and / or mechanical transmission mechanisms. Figure 21 In the example, the actuator is a transmission mechanism that includes a spring-loaded rod 179.

[0174] like Figure 21As shown, the distal actuating surface region 168 of the key pen 165 passes through the key slot 167 to actuate the rod 179 when the interface structure 105 is inserted into the receiving station 107. The rod 179 extends at least partially within the key slot housing component 170 (implemented here as a sleeve-shaped housing). When the supply device 101 is inserted into the receiving station 107, for example by the push of an operator, the housing component 170 is inserted into the recesses 171a, 171b towards the base through the recessed inlet at the front of the interface structure. Thus, the key pen 165 is inserted into the housing component 170 and actuates the rod 179. In the illustrated example, the corresponding movement of the rod 179 along the main flow direction DL is transmitted to the hook 161 via a suitable transmission mechanism (not shown), whereby one end of the hook 161 is inserted into the gap 159. Once the hook 161 is inserted into the gap and the operator releases the supply device, the hook 161 engages the stop 163, thereby securing the supply device 101 in the receiving station 107. The hook 161 can resist the spring force F of the lever 179 to hold the interface structure 105 in the seated condition. In the seated condition, the needle 109 extends into the liquid channel 117 and the seal 120, thereby opening the ball valve 120A and establishing liquid flow between the supply device 101 and the receiving station 107. Furthermore, the data connector 173 connects to the integrated circuit contact pad array 175, thereby establishing data communication. The interface structure 105 may include fastening features 157 at two lateral sides 139, each fastening feature having a gap 159 and a stop 163. Accordingly, two opposite hooks 161 can be triggered by a pair of levers 179.

[0175] The operator's subsequent push moves lever 179 again, which in turn actuates it to hook 161. Hook 161 then releases from gap 159 and stop 163, triggering the ejection of supply device 101. Upon ejection, lever 179, through the decompression of the spring, pushes key pen 165 backward within its lever housing 170, thereby disengaging fluid needle 109 from liquid inlet 115 and disconnecting the data connection.

[0176] In the illustrated example, interface structure 105 includes two recesses 171a and 171b, both of which are located laterally adjacent to the needle receiving portion 121 of the liquid channel 117 and have a depth along the second interface dimension d2. Recesses 171a and 171b may surround the key pen 165, for example, to facilitate the key pen 165 into the corresponding key slot housing component 170.

[0177] Recesses 171a and 171b may be defined by recess walls. Recesses 171a and 171b may extend alongside the liquid channel needle receiving portion 121, and on the other hand, recesses 171a and 171b may be defined by the inner wall surface of the respective lateral side 139 of the interface structure 105. Recesses 171a and 171b may be further defined on the one hand by the side 113 of the container 103 from which the interface structure 105 protrudes, and on the other hand by the inner wall surface of the distal side 137.

[0178] The liquid interface 115 and the channel needle receiving portion 121 can be aligned with the center plane CP of the interface structure 105 (see also: [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 24 and Figure 25 Laterally offset, with smaller and larger recesses 171a and 171b respectively provided on both sides of the interface 115 and the channel pin receiving portion 121. One key pen can extend at a greater distance from the liquid channel compared to the other key pen, wherein the integrated circuit extends between the one key pen and the liquid channel. In one example, the larger recess 171b accommodates an integrated circuit contact pad 175, which extends on the opposite side of the central plane CP relative to the liquid interface 115. The recess 171b can accommodate the entire integrated circuit 174, of which the pad 175 is part. The integrated circuit 174 can be a microcontroller or other custom integrated circuit. The integrated circuit contact pad 175 can extend on the inner wall portion of the distal side 137 of the interface structure 105, in a plane parallel to the second interface dimension d2 and the third interface dimension d3, and along an axis parallel to the third interface dimension d3. The distal side 137 includes a support wall portion for the integrated circuit 174. The integrated circuit contact pad 175 can extend between the liquid channel 117 and the corresponding key pen 165. During the installation of the supply device 101, the data connector 173 for the integrated circuit contact pad 175 can be inserted into the corresponding larger recess 171b, between the channel pin receiving portion 121 and the corresponding key pen 165 contained in the corresponding recess 171b.

[0179] The key pen 165 may have an elongated shape extending from the base 169 of the recesses 171a, 171b in a direction along the second interface dimension d2, for example, along its longitudinal axis Ck. In one example, the extent KL extending from the base 169 may be based on: (i) the desired insertion length of the liquid needle; (ii) the insertion length of the data connector 173; and (iii) an actuator push length sufficient to trigger the actuator. In the example, the key pen 165 extends along the second interface dimension d2 within the respective recesses 171a, 171b without exceeding the liquid output edge 116, whereby the actuation surface region 168 of the pen 165 may be substantially flush with the liquid output edge 116. In one example, each extended key pen 165 is received in the respective recesses 171a, 171b between the wall 117b adjacent to the liquid channel 117 and the wall defining the lateral side 139. The depth of the recesses 171a and 171b along the second interface dimension d2 between the interface front portion 154 and the base 169 can be approximately the same as the length of the key pen 165 (as measured between the base 169 and the distal actuating surface region 168 of the key pen 165). In one example, some of these walls extending along the recesses 171a and 171b can mechanically protect the protruding key pen 165, for example, from damage due to drops.

[0180] The length KL of the key pen 165 between its base 169 and actuation surface region 168 can be at least approximately 10 mm, at least approximately 12 mm, at least approximately 15 mm, at least approximately 20 mm, or at least approximately 23 mm. Accordingly, the base 169 of the key pen 165 can extend rearward from the outer edge 116 of the liquid interface 115 at least the length KL, as measured along the second interface dimension d2. In the illustrated example, the actuation surface region 168 of the key pen 165 extends approximately to the liquid interface edge 116, but does not extend beyond the liquid interface edge 116, as measured along the second interface dimension d2, or, for example, less than or beyond the edge 116, for example, 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, or 5 mm. In other examples, the distal actuation surface region 168 of the key pen extends from the outer edge 116 of the liquid interface 115 by a distance not exceeding 3 mm or 5 mm, as measured along the main liquid flow direction DL or the second interface dimension d2. In still other examples, the key pen may extend beyond the liquid interface 115 by more than 5 mm, 10 mm, or 15 mm (see, for example, see...). Figure 37A ).

[0181] In one example, recesses 171a and 171b are defined by: a lateral side 139, a support wall 137a, a wall 117b defining a liquid channel 117 or parallel to and adjacent to the liquid channel, and a corresponding container side 113 opposite to the support wall 137a. The lateral side 139 and the support wall 137a may extend along the key pen 165 for protection, for example, extending at least to the distal actuation surface region 168, or at least extending approximately 5 mm behind the distal actuation surface region 168.

[0182] In these different exemplary supply devices 101, the container 103 spans along the length KL of the key pen 165, extending beyond the distal actuation surface region 168, beyond the liquid interface edge 116 and the key pen 165, and protruding in the main liquid flow direction DL beyond the interface structure 105 by a protruding length PP (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 8 (As shown).

[0183] Figure 22 The illustration shows a cross-sectional perspective view of an example of interface structure 105 and container 103. For reference now... Figure 22 For some details of the discussion, please refer to... Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 ,as well as Figure 41 In the illustrated example, the storage unit 133, support structure 135, and interface structure 105 are separately manufactured components, which are then assembled together after being manufactured individually. The exemplary supply device 101 can facilitate the use of relatively environmentally friendly materials and structures. Furthermore, the supply device 101 and the receiving station can be implemented in multiple different printing platforms. The supply device 101 can provide relatively user-friendly installation and removal from the corresponding receiving station, for example, via a push-push motion.

[0184] In one example, the support structure 135 is made of cardboard boxes or other cellulose-based materials (e.g., corrugated cardboard with a thickness of approximately 2 mm or less, or 1 mm or less).

[0185] Support structure 135 may include a generally box-shaped folding cardboard box structure for supporting and protecting the storage bag, and providing descriptions, instructions, advertisements, graphics, logos, etc. on its exterior. Support structure 135 may provide protection against leakage of the storage bag 133, such as due to impact and / or during transportation. Support structure 135 may be generally cuboid, including six generally rectangular sides defined by cardboard walls, wherein at least the interface structure 105 may include an opening 113A on this side 113 from which it protrudes, allowing liquid to flow from the storage bag 133 through support structure 135 and interface structure 105. Opening 113A may be provided adjacent to a second side 125, which is generally perpendicular to the previously mentioned side 113. In some of the illustrated examples, opening 113A is provided in the bottom wall near the rear wall to allow the interface structure to protrude from the bottom of the container near the rear, wherein the container volume may protrude beyond the liquid interface along the main flow direction DL of the liquid outflow. The support structure 135 may include a push indicator along the second side 125, such as the rear side or thereon, to instruct an operator to push against this side 125 to install and / or remove the supply device 101, respectively.

[0186] In one example, reservoir 133 includes a bag with flexible membrane walls comprising a plastic membrane that inhibits the transfer of fluids, such as gases, vapors, and / or liquids. In one example, a multilayered film plastic laminate can be used. Film materials can reduce the use of plastic materials and thus reduce potential environmental impact. In another example, thin metal membranes can be included in multiple layers to increase impermeability. The flexible membrane reservoir walls can include at least one of PE, PET, EVOH, nylon, Mylar, or other materials.

[0187] In various examples, the reservoir 133 of this disclosure can facilitate the holding of at least 50 ml, 90 ml, 100 ml, 200 ml, 250 ml, 400 ml, 500 ml, 700 ml, 1 L, 2 L, 3 L, 5 L, or more of printing liquid. Among containers 103 of different volumes, the same reservoir 133 with the same maximum liquid volume capacity can be used for different liquid volumes of different support structures 135 and / or supply devices 101.

[0188] The reservoir 133 may include relatively rigid interconnecting elements 134, which are more rigid than the rest of the flexible bag, for fluid connection to the interface structure 105, thereby allowing liquid in the reservoir 133 to flow to the receiving station. Figure 22In the illustrated example, interconnect element 134 may be the neck of a reservoir, through which liquid flows out of reservoir 133. The neck includes a flange and a central channel for guiding the liquid to liquid channel 117. The flange extends outward from the central output channel to facilitate attachment to a corresponding support structure wall at the edge of opening 113A. Interconnect element 134 may be connected to a reservoir connection portion 129 of the liquid channel of interface structure 105, such as an extension of reservoir connection portion 129 that extends beyond a first interface dimension d1 into support structure 135, i.e., beyond the profile height of interface structure 105.

[0189] Interconnecting element 134 facilitates the interconnection of reservoir 133, support structure 135, and liquid channel reservoir connection portion 129. These different flanges can be connected to different components. For example, a first flange of interconnecting element 134 can be connected to reservoir 133, while a second flange can be connected to support structure 135. In one example, the reservoir includes membrane layers, one membrane layer fluid-tightly attached to one side of the flange, and another membrane layer fluid-tightly attached to the other side of the flange. The membrane layers can be welded to the flange. Mechanical connection structure 106 can be provided to clamp reservoir 133 and support structure 135 to liquid channel reservoir connection portion 129, for example, clamping between the flange of interconnecting element 134 and the wedge-shaped arm of mechanical connection structure 106, wherein the arm of mechanical connection structure 106 can extend around the tubular liquid channel reservoir connection portion 129 and clamp the reservoir and support structure walls between the flange of interconnecting element 134 and its wedge-shaped member.

[0190] The storage pouch may protrude beyond the liquid interface edge 116 within the protrusion 123 of the support structure 135, for example, see [reference needed]. Figure 41 See. For example, under operating conditions where at least a portion of the reservoir 133 is filled, the reservoir protrudes away from the interconnecting element 134 by more than 60%, 70%, 80%, or 90% of its length along the second container dimension D2. For this purpose, the interconnecting element 134 may be positioned asymmetrically within the reservoir, for example, near the edge or corner of an unfilled flat reservoir pouch.

[0191] Interface structure 105 comprises a relatively rigid molded plastic. The walls of the interface structure can inhibit fluid (e.g., gas, vapor, and / or liquid) transfer, allowing the separate reservoir and interface structure to together form a relatively liquid-sealed liquid supply system. A large portion of interface structure 105 (e.g., base 169, rear 126, and sidewalls 139, 137) can be made of recycled fiber-filled plastic material, such as recycled non-glass fiber PET. In one example, the non-glass filler allows the seal 120 to be better secured in the liquid channel 117. For example, the key pen 165 and the exemplary separate mechanical connection structure 106 ( Figure 40 It can be made of glass fiber filled plastic.

[0192] Although the materials of the interface structure and the reservoir can be relatively impermeable to fluids, in practice, for various reasons, some fluid may pass through the walls of the reservoir and the interface structure over time. Accordingly, the supply device 101 may have a certain limited shelf life. For example, the choice of materials may be based on reducing the reservoir membrane thickness while maintaining a certain minimum shelf life. In one example, the interconnect element 134, separate from the reservoir 133 (in use, assembled between the interface structure 105 and the reservoir 133), may be more fluid-permeable than the interface structure 105 and the reservoir 133 to facilitate the attachment of the interconnect element 134 to the interface structure 105 and the reservoir 133, which are made of different materials, for example, to facilitate both welding and adhesive bonding.

[0193] Figure 22 The diagram illustrates the liquid flow element 111 of the interface structure 105 and its main liquid flow path LFP. The main flow direction of the liquid flow path LFP is outflow from the container and the interface structure 205, as previously explained; however, in some examples, there may be a bidirectional flow path associated with the liquid flow path LFP or reverse flow in the presence of two liquid channels 117. Upstream along the main flow direction of the main liquid flow path LFP, the interface structure 105 may be provided with a liquid channel input 124 as part of the liquid channel receiving portion 129, which is aligned, for example, with the interconnecting element 134 of the reservoir 133 to receive liquid from the reservoir 133. Downstream of this input 124, the liquid channel of the supply device 101 includes the remainder of the channel reservoir connection portion 129, followed by the channel intermediate portion 119, the channel needle receiving portion 121, and the liquid interface 115. In the illustrated example, the intermediate portion 119 of the liquid channel helps to (i) form an angle β between the reservoir connector portion 129 and the needle receiving portion 121 in a plane parallel to the first interface size d1 and the second interface size d2; and (ii) have a lateral offset between the reservoir connector portion 129 and the needle receiving portion 121 along the third interface size d3.

[0194] The channel needle receiving portion 121 is adapted to receive the fluid needle 109 when it is inserted through the liquid interface 115 at the receiving station. The needle receiving portion 121 is angled to the reservoir connection portion 129 to allow liquid to flow first from the reservoir 133 to the interface structure 105 and then along a curve to the liquid inlet 124 of the liquid channel 117. The angle β between the central axis of the channel reservoir connection portion 129 and the channel needle receiving portion 121 can be approximately a right angle, such as... Figure 23 The illustration shows the view along the direction of the third interface dimension d3. For example, when the supply device is mounted generally horizontally and the interface structure 105 extends downward, the reservoir connection portion 129 may have a generally vertical central axis, while the needle receiving portion 121 may have a generally horizontal central axis. In other examples, the angle β may be different, for example, between 45 degrees and 135 degrees, as shown by dashed lines 129a, 129b, which illustrate the potentially different inclinations of the central axes 129a, 129b of the reservoir connection portion relative to the liquid channel needle receiving portion 121. The liquid channel reservoir connection portion 129 may protrude from the interface structure 105 to connect to the reservoir 133.

[0195] In another example, the needle receiving portion 121 is laterally offset from the storage connection portion 129 along the direction of the third interface dimension d3, as in Figure 22 and Figure 24 As can be seen in the diagram. For example, the central axes of the channel pin receiving portion 121 and the channel memory connection portion 129 may extend within different reference planes C121 and CP, respectively, which are (i) parallel to the first interface dimension d1 and the second interface dimension d2, and (ii) offset from each other. The lateral offset distance of the channel portions 121 and 129 (e.g., measured between planes C121 and CP) may be approximately the sum of the channel radii of the channel memory connection portion 129 and the channel pin receiving portion 121. In the illustrated example, the central axis of the channel memory connection portion 129 extends approximately within the central plane CP of the interface structure 105, wherein the channel pin receiving portion 121 is offset from and parallel to the central plane CP of the interface structure 105.

[0196] Offsetting the center of the channel pin receiving portion 121 from the central plane CP facilitates the provision of a larger recess 171b next to the channel pin receiving portion 117. This, in turn, facilitates the accommodating of the integrated circuit and contact pad 175, as well as the corresponding key pen 165, and the corresponding insertion of the data connector 173 and key slot housing component 170. The integrated circuit contact pad 175 and the liquid interface 115 can be arranged on different sides laterally of the central plane CP.

[0197] These aspects of the dimensions, positions, and orientations of the different interface components in the explained interface structure 105 can contribute to an interface structure 105 with a relatively small width and low height profile, for example, having relatively small first interface dimensions d1 and third interface dimensions d3. This, in turn, can contribute to compatibility with a relatively wide range of different container liquid volumes and different printing systems. For example, the aspect ratio of the first dimension d1 to the third dimension d3 (e.g., height to width) of the protruding portion of the interface structure 105 can be correspondingly less than 2:3, or less than 3:5, or less than 2:5, or less than 3:10, for example, approximately 1.3:4.8. For example, the aspect ratio of the first dimension d1:second dimension d2 (e.g., height:length) of the protruding portion of the interface structure 105 can be correspondingly less than 2:3, or less than 3:5, or less than 2:5, or less than 3:10, for example, approximately 1.3:4.3. In one example, the first dimension d1 is between approximately 10 mm and 15 mm. The relatively small first dimension d1 of the protruding portion of the interface structure 105 can facilitate the connection of the interface structure 105 to both relatively large-volume containers 103 (e.g., greater than 500ml) and relatively small-volume containers (e.g., approximately 100ml or less). Container volumes can include at least 50ml, 90ml, 100ml, 200ml, 250ml, 400ml, 500ml, 700ml, 1L, 2L, 3L, 5L, etc.

[0198] Furthermore, a small interface size d1 can facilitate relatively efficient stacking and transport of the supply device 101. In some examples, the ratio D1:d1 of the first dimension of the container 103 to the protruding portion of the interface structure 105 can be greater than 5:1, greater than 6:1, or greater than 7:1.

[0199] Figure 24 and Figure 25 Examples of interface structure 105 are illustrated in the top and front views of the cross section, respectively. Figure 24 The illustration shows virtual reference planes P1, P2, P3, and P4, each of which is parallel to the first interface dimension d1 and the third interface dimension d3, and offset relative to each other along a second dimension d2 from the front portion 154 to the rear portion 126, or from the interface structure 105. One or more of these virtual planes P1, P2, P3, and P4 can be used to describe the relative positions and shapes of different interface components of the interface structure 105.

[0200] exist Figure 24In the illustrated example, a first plane P1 tangentially contacts or intersects at least one of the interface front portion 154 and the key pen 165. In one example, the interface front portion 154 includes a generally straight surface extending generally parallel to the first plane P1, and the first plane P1 contacts the interface front portion 154. In another example, the first plane P1 contacts or intersects the key pen near or through the distal actuation surface region 168 of the key pen 165. In yet another example, the key pen may include an extended pen portion extending beyond the interface front portion 154, wherein the first plane P1 intersects the extended pen portion. In yet another example, the key pen does not extend beyond the interface front portion 154, wherein the first plane P1 does not contact or intersect the key pen. In the illustrated example, the first plane P1 does not contact or intersect the integrated circuit contact pads 175, but in another example, the contact pads 175 may be slightly movable, and the first plane P1 may contact or intersect these contact pads 175.

[0201] The second plane P2 is configured parallel to the first plane P1 and away from the front portion 154 along the needle insertion direction NI. For example, the second plane P2 is located at a distance from the interface front portion 154 and / or the key pen actuation surface area 168. The second plane P2, along the third interface dimension d3, intersects at least the following from left to right in the figures: a lateral sidewall 139, a support wall 137a, a recess 171b, a key pen 165, an integrated circuit contact pad array 175, a liquid channel needle receiving portion 121 (e.g., including a seal 120), another recess 171a, another key pen 165, and another lateral sidewall 139. In one example, the lateral sidewall 139 includes lateral guide features 138, and the second plane P2 intersects these lateral guide features 138. In another example, the support wall 137a includes an intermediate guide feature 140 (…). Figure 24(Not visible in the middle), and the second plane P2 intersects with the intermediate guide feature 140. The intermediate guide feature 140 may be located below the first recess 171a and opposite the second recess 171b to the liquid flow member 117. Most or all of the interface features may be integrally molded portions of a single-molded integral interface structure 105, while, for example, the key pen 165 and the seal 120 may form separate insert components, but the pen 165 may be integrally molded with the rest. The integrated contact pad 175 may be part of a separate element of an integrated circuit that stores and controls certain printing-related functions, and is separately adhered to the inner surface of the support wall 137a of the interface structure 105 in the second recess 171b. In use, the contact pad contact surface faces the container 103, and the contact pad 175 is arranged in the corresponding recess 171b on the inner side of the support wall 137a, between the liquid channel 117 and one of the key pens 165. Integrated circuit 174 can be individually assembled onto the monolithic molded structure, for example, by adhering the circuit carrier plate to the support wall 137a.

[0202] The third plane P3 is configured to be parallel to the second plane P2, offset from the second plane along the needle insertion direction NI, further from the interface front 154 than the second plane P2, and intersects at least the following from left to right in the drawings along the third interface dimension d3: gap 159, a recess 171b, a key pen 165, a fluid channel 117 (e.g., channel needle receiving portion 121), another recess 171a, another key pen 165, and another gap 159. The third plane P3 may intersect portions of the lateral sidewall 139 and the support wall 137a. For example, the third plane P3 is positioned at a distance from the integrated circuit contact pad 175. The third plane P3 may also be positioned at a distance from the seal 120. In the example, the lateral sidewall 139 includes lateral guide surfaces 141, 145, and the third plane P3 intersects these lateral guide surfaces 141, 145, wherein the lateral guide surfaces may include a first lateral guide surface 141 and a second lateral guide surface 145, as explained elsewhere in this disclosure. In another example, the support wall 137 includes an intermediate guide feature 140. Figure 24 (Not visible in the middle), and the third plane P3 intersects with the intermediate guide feature 140. The intermediate guide feature 140 may be located next to the liquid flow member 117 and below the first recess 171a. In other examples, only one of the two gaps 159 is provided or no gap is provided.

[0203] like Figure 24As shown, the central plane CP can intersect the interface structure 105 through the middle of the third interface dimension d3, and can extend parallel to the first interface dimension d1 and the second interface dimension d2. The central plane CP can also intersect the container 103 through the middle of the third container dimension D3. The central plane CP can intersect the interface front portion 154 and the liquid interface 115. The integrated circuit contact pad 175 can be disposed on one side of the central plane CP, and the liquid channel needle receiving portion 117 and the liquid interface 115 are disposed on the other side of the central plane CP. The key pen 165 can be disposed on opposite sides of the central plane CP. The second recess 171b, which accommodates the integrated circuit contact pad 175, is larger than the first recess 171a. The central plane CP can intersect a portion of the second recess 171b, such that most of the second recess 171b extends on the side of the central plane CP opposite to the first recess 171a.

[0204] The fourth virtual plane P4 is positioned parallel to the third plane P3 and further from the front portion 154 along the needle insertion direction NI. The fourth plane P4 intersects the following along the third interface dimension d3: the lateral sidewall 139, the support wall 137a, and the reservoir connection portion 129 of the liquid channel 117. In another example, the fourth plane P4 also intersects the middle portion 119 of the liquid channel 117. The reservoir connection portion 129 of the liquid channel 117 may include at least a partially cylindrical wall surrounding a second central axis parallel to the first interface dimension d1 (e.g., see...). Figure 26 The central axis is in Figure 24 The intersection of the central plane CP and the fourth plane P4 is indicated by the plane. The fourth plane P4 may extend along the base wall 169, for example, close to the base wall 169 and approximately 0 mm to 5 mm or 0 mm to 3 mm away from the base wall 169. The fourth plane P4 may be located at a certain distance from the contact pad 175, the seal 120, and the gap 159.

[0205] Figure 24 The diagram also illustrates the overall rectangular outline of interface structure 105 along its second interface dimension d2 and third interface dimension d3. This overall rectangular outline may be defined by the front edge of the distal side 137, the rear portion 126, and two opposing lateral sides 139. The front edge of the distal side 137 and / or the rear portion 126 may include generally straight outer edges or surfaces that are generally parallel to the third interface dimension d3. The lateral sides 139 may include generally straight edges or surfaces that are generally parallel to the second interface dimension d2, such as the first lateral guide surface 141. The extent of this rectangular outline may be approximately 5 cm or less along the third interface dimension d3 and / or approximately 6 cm or less along the second interface dimension d2, for example, 48 mm and 43 mm respectively.

[0206] Figure 25 The diagram shows... Figure 24 The exemplary interface structure 105 intersects with virtual reference planes P5, P6, P7, P8, and P9. Each virtual reference plane is parallel to the second interface dimension d2 and the third interface dimension d3, and is offset relative to each other along the first dimension d1 in the protruding direction of the interface structure 105, i.e., each plane is closer to the far side 137 of the interface structure 105. In the direction toward the far side 137, these planes respectively include the fifth plane P5, the sixth plane P6, the seventh plane P7, the eighth plane P8, and the ninth plane P9.

[0207] The fifth plane P5 intersects the edge 154b of the interface front portion 154 and, for example, the protruding reservoir connection portion 129 of the liquid channel 117. For example, the fifth plane P5 may further intersect at least one of the following: the lateral sidewall 139, the recesses 171a, 171b, the base 169 of the recesses 171a, 171b, and the key 165. The fifth plane P5 may intersect the first lateral guide surfaces 141, 141b, for example, the outer first lateral guide surface 141. The fifth plane P5 may extend at a distance from the key pen 165, for example at least at a distance from the actuation surface region 168 of the key pen 165, and / or at a distance from the edge 116 of the liquid interface 115.

[0208] The sixth plane P6 intersects the following: a transverse sidewall 139, a recess 171a, a key pen base 169, a key pen 165, a liquid channel needle receiving portion 121 (at a distance from the central axis of the liquid interface 115 and / or the needle receiving portion 121), a seal 120 (above its central axis), a second recess 171b, another key pen base 169, another key pen 165, and another transverse sidewall 139. The central axis may extend straight through the center of the seal 120 as shown in the figures. In the illustrated example, the sixth plane P6 intersects the key pen 165 (through its central axis Ak), which is perpendicular to the base 169 of the key pen 165 and extends along the length of the key pen 165 through its center. The sixth plane P6 may intersect with the first transverse guide surfaces 141, 141b, for example, the inner first transverse guide surface 141b, and / or the gap 159 and / or the stop 163.

[0209] The seventh plane P7 (at a certain distance from the sixth plane P6) intersects with the following: a lateral sidewall 139, a recess 171a, a key pen base 169, a key pen 165, the central axis of the needle receiving portion 121 of the liquid interface 115 and the liquid channel 117, a second recess 171b, another key pen base 169, another key pen 165, and another lateral sidewall 139. The seventh plane P7 may intersect with the first lateral guide surfaces 141, 141b, for example, the inner first lateral guide surface 141b, and / or the gap 159 and / or the hook stop 163. The seventh plane P7 may extend at a certain distance from the central axis of the key pen 165. The fifth plane P5, the sixth plane P6, and the seventh plane P7 extend at a certain distance from the integrated circuit contact pad 175.

[0210] In other examples, the key pen 165 is currently in Figure 25 Compared to the positioning method in the figure, the key pen 165 can be moved downwards in the figure such that the central axis Ak of ​​the key pen 165 intersects with: (i) the same plane; or (ii) a plane on the other side of the plane that intersects with the central axis of the liquid interface and the channel needle receiving portion. In the first example, the central axes of the key pen and the liquid interface are at the same level along the first interface dimension d1.

[0211] The eighth plane P8 (at a distance from the seventh plane P7) intersects the integrated circuit contact pad array 175 and / or the remainder of the integrated circuit 174. The eighth plane P8 may extend adjacent to and / or just contact the support wall 137a that defines the outer distal side 137 of the interface structure 105. The support wall 137a supports the integrated circuit 174. The integrated circuit contact pads 175 may have contact surfaces that extend at least substantially within and / or parallel to the eighth plane P8. These contact surfaces may be planar, wherein the plane of the contact surface may extend substantially within the eighth plane P8; however, it should be understood that these surfaces are not precisely planar in practice, and some deviation of the portion of the contact surface from the eighth plane P8 can be considered. In one example, the integrated circuit contact pads 175 are portions of a circuit disposed in relatively shallow cutouts in the inner support wall 137a, wherein the eighth plane P8 may also intersect or contact the support wall 137a at a lateral side of the contact pads 175. The eighth plane P8 may extend at a distance from the key pen 165. Depending on the size and shape of the liquid interface edge 116, the eighth plane P8 may contact or intersect the liquid interface edge 116 approximately tangentially, or may be slightly spaced from the edge 116. The eighth plane P8 intersects the lateral side 138. The eighth plane P8 may intersect with a wall or rib 144b extending along and partially defining the intermediate guide groove 144, which extends into the corresponding recess 171a.

[0212] The ninth plane P9 extends a short distance from the eighth plane P8 and intersects with the support wall 137a at a distance from the contact pad 175, wherein the wall 137a supports the integrated circuit contact pad 175 and / or the integrated circuit 174 and defines the distal side 137. The ninth plane P9 may intersect with the intermediate guide feature 140 (implemented herein as a guide groove 144). The ninth plane P9 extends at a distance from the key pen 165, the liquid interface edge 116, and the liquid channel needle receiving portion 121. The ninth plane P9 extends adjacent to the outer surface of the distal side 137 of the interface structure 105.

[0213] As shown in the figure, the interface structure 105 can be defined by a series of virtual planes P5 to P9, which are parallel to the second dimension d2 and the third dimension d3 of the interface structure 105, including: (i) an intermediate plane P6 or P7, which intersects the liquid interface 115, the recesses 171a and 171b, and the corresponding key pen 165 on both sides of the liquid interface 115; (ii) first offset planes P8 and P9, which are parallel to the intermediate plane P6 and offset from it in the protruding direction of the interface structure 105, and which are perpendicular to the support wall 137a. The support wall supports an integrated circuit and / or an integrated circuit contact pad array 175, the contact pad array extending along a line parallel to the planes P8, P9 and the third interface dimension d3; and (iii) a second offset plane P5, which is parallel to the intermediate plane P6 or P7 and offset from it in a direction opposite to the protruding direction of the interface structure 105. The second offset plane P5 intersects the front edge 154b of the interface structure 105 at a distance from the liquid interface 115 and intersects the liquid channel reservoir connection portion 129 connected to the liquid supply container 103. The first offset planes P8, P9 and the second offset plane P5 (i) extend on opposite sides of the intermediate planes P6 or P7; (ii) extend at a distance from the key pen 165; and (iii) extend at a distance from the inner wall of the channel needle receiving portion 121. The inner wall of the channel needle receiving portion 121 extends between the offset planes P5 and P9. In the illustrated example, offset planes P5 and P9 also extend at a distance from the liquid interface edge 116, which in one example is defined by the edge of the interface front 154 into which the seal 120 is inserted. When the interface structure 105 is attached to the container 103, these planes P5, P6 or P7, P8 may extend parallel to the interface structure 105 from its protruding container side 113. As explained, the interface structure 105 may have a relatively small profile, wherein the distance between the opposing offset planes P5 and P9 may be less than approximately 20 mm, less than approximately 15 mm, less than approximately 13 mm, or less than approximately 12 mm, approximately corresponding to the range of the first interface dimension d1 (which may correspond to the height of the protruding portion of the interface structure 105). In another example, the intermediate plane P6 or P7 intersects with the gap 159, and / or the stop 163, and / or the lateral guide feature 138. Offset planes P5 and P9 may be positioned at a distance from the gap 159.

[0214] Figure 26The diagram illustrates a separate interface structure 105. Interface structure 105 includes a single, relatively rigid molded plastic base structure 105-1, where, for example, the key pen 165 and the seal 120 can be separate components, for example, inserted into corresponding complementary holes and channels, respectively. Additional separate components can be assembled onto this single, relatively rigid molded plastic structure, such as channel connector component 181, for connection to the memory 133.

[0215] As can be seen, the lateral side 139 protrudes from the support wall 137a in the direction of the first dimension d1. Elsewhere in this disclosure, the outer side of the support wall 137a is referred to as the distal side 137. The explained protruding part protrudes from the inner side opposite to the outer side 137. The support wall 137a and its outer side 137 extend generally parallel to the second interface dimension d2 and the third interface dimension d3. The liquid channel 117 may be part of an extension structure extending from the support wall 137a in the direction of the second interface dimension d2 and the first interface dimension d1, the structure including a tubular liquid channel wall 117b and a block defining the front push region 154a and the liquid interface 115. The structure of the liquid channel 117 extends between the recesses 171, 171b. The bases 169a, 169b of the recesses 171a, 171b and / or the key pen 165 may also protrude from the wall 137a in the direction of the first interface dimension d1. Each recess 171a, 171b extends between the liquid channel structure, the transverse sidewall 139, and the bases 169a, 169b. An additional wall, such as the rear wall 154d, may also protrude from the support wall 137a in the direction of the first interface dimension d1.

[0216] The channel reservoir connection portion 129 includes a channel connector component 181 for connection to or sealing to the reservoir 133. The channel reservoir connection portion 129 extends in a direction parallel to the first dimension d1, for example perpendicular to the main liquid flow direction DL or the needle insertion direction NI, to connect to the liquid reservoir 133. The channel reservoir connection portion 129 may include a cylindrical liquid channel extending partially within and partially outside the first interface dimension d1, with the connector component 181 at its upstream end, for example, to further facilitate connection to the reservoir 133 within the support structure 135. As shown, the protruding channel reservoir connection portion 129 extends beyond the range of the first interface dimension d1 by a certain distance to pass through an opening 113A in the corresponding support structure side 113. Figure 22 ).

[0217] In other examples, the (not shown) liquid channel reservoir connection portion 129 may not extend beyond the height of the interface structure 105, but may extend entirely within the first interface dimension d1, wherein, for example, the reservoir-side interconnect element 134 may extend through the support structure opening 113A, at least partially into or into the interface structure 105, thereby fluidly connecting to the liquid channel 117.

[0218] Connector component 181 and / or liquid interconnect element 134 may include rings, necks, threads, etc., such as Figure 22 and Figure 26 The connector component 181 and / or liquid interconnect element 134 can be connected to the liquid channel reservoir connection portion 129 and the reservoir neck, respectively. The inner diameters of the connector component 181, liquid interconnect element 134, and reservoir neck can be equal. The inner diameter of the liquid interconnect element 134 and / or reservoir neck is smaller than the total width of the reservoir 133 along the third container dimension D3. For example, this inner diameter can be less than half the width of the reservoir 133. In some examples (e.g.) Figure 46 , Figure 47 In this context, the neck of the storage device 133 can be relatively small compared to the size of the storage device 133.

[0219] The first interface size d1 can be defined by the distance between the outer edge of the distal side 137 and the front edge 154b. Furthermore, the opposite edge of the lateral side 139 can approximately define the first interface size d1.

[0220] like Figure 26 As shown, the single molded structure can be open opposite to the support wall 137. For example, the recesses 171a, 171b of the interface structure 105 are open opposite to the support wall 137a, wherein, under assembly conditions, the corresponding container side 113 closes the opening to form a recessed wall opposite to the support wall 137a.

[0221] The transverse wall 139 and the support wall 137a terminate at the edge of the front portion 154 of the interface structure 105. These edges extend at the inlets of the recesses 171a, 171b, wherein the proximal front edge 154b and the distal front edge 154c may be located adjacent to the liquid interface 115.

[0222] Each of the recesses 171a and 171b has a base 169a and 169b, which may also be the base 169a of the corresponding key pen 165. The bases 169a and 169b form the inner walls of the recesses 171a and 171b, extending between the liquid channel wall 117b and the transverse sidewall 139. The bases 169a and 169b may extend parallel to the third interface dimension d3. The bases 169a and 169b may be defined by walls parallel to the first interface dimension d1 and the third interface dimension d3. The bases 169a and 169b are offset rearward relative to the front portion 154 (opposite to the main flow direction DL), wherein the offset distance may be approximately the same as the length of the key pen 165. In other examples, the bases 169a, 169b may be offset further rearward, as shown in the figure, and the pen length may be extended accordingly, such that the actuating end region 168 of the pen is approximately aligned with the liquid interface edge 116. In another example, the bases 169a, 169b may be inner walls offset inward from the rear wall 154d of the interface structure 105 along the second interface dimension d2. A space 154d may be provided between the rear wall 154d and the bases 169a, 169b, for example, for a tapping finger of the pen 165.

[0223] Figure 27 An example of a key pen 165 that can be attached to the base wall 169a of a corresponding interface structure 105 is illustrated. The key pen 165 includes a longitudinally extending key pen portion 165b of at least approximately 10 mm, at least approximately 12 mm, at least approximately 15 mm, at least approximately 20 mm, or approximately 23 mm, extending from the key pen base 169b to the key pen actuation surface region 168. In use, the longitudinally extending key pen portion 165b can extend from the key pen base 169b along a pen axis Ck, which extends in an insertion direction that can be parallel to the main liquid flow direction DL. In the illustrated example, the pen axis Ck is perpendicular to the key pen base 169b and extends parallel to the second interface dimension d2. When the key pen 165 is mounted in the interface structure 105, the key pen base 169b can form part of the bases 169a and 169b of the recesses 171a and 171b.

[0224] In this disclosure, when referring to the “base” of a key pen, at least when the key pen is assembled to its respective base wall, the base of the key pen can refer to any base wall portion adjacent to and from which the key pen extends. Such a base may, in one example, be an integrally molded portion 169b of the key pen, or in another example, a portion molded separately from the key pen. In the case of disassembly of the key pen, the base can refer to the disassembled base portion 183 of the key pen from which the remaining portions of the key pen extend toward its actuating surface region 168, for example… Figure 27 As shown. In an example where the key pen is integrally molded with the base wall 169 of the recesses 171a, 171b, or in an example where the key pen is pre-assembled to such a base wall 169, any base wall portion 169, 169a, 169b adjacent to the key pen and from which the key pen extends may define the base of the key pen.

[0225] During installation (for example, see...) Figure 21 The longitudinally extending key pen portion 165b may extend at least partially within the key slot housing component 170 by a pen insertion distance of at least 10 mm, 12 mm, 15 mm, or 20 mm. This pen insertion length should be sufficient to activate the actuator. For example, the pen insertion length includes a first distance, such as 1.5 mm, for engaging a transmission mechanism (e.g., lever 179); and a second distance for further actuating the transmission mechanism to perform an actuation, such as actuating a switch or hook 161. The second distance may be at least 8.5 mm, at least 10.5 mm, at least 13.5 mm, at least 18.5 mm, etc. The total length of the key pen 165 between the bases 169, 169a, 169b and the distal actuation surface region 168 should at least extend across this pen insertion distance.

[0226] Figure 28 An example of a key pen 165 inserted into interface structure 105 is illustrated. As can be seen, the key pen base 169b is defined by a base portion 183, which is inserted into interface structure 105 during use, thereby jointly defining the bases 169a and 169b of the longitudinal key pen portions 165b. The base portion 183 can be generally cylindrical or of a different shape, extending rearward along a longitudinal axis Ck from the key pen base 169b. The pen axis Ck can extend through the center of the cylindrical base portion 183.

[0227] In the example, the base portion 183 and the longitudinal key pen portion 165b are integrally molded as a single piece. The base portion 183 is inserted into the corresponding pen base hole 185 of the interface structure 105. The pen base hole 185 is disposed in the base wall 169a of the corresponding recess 171. The base wall 169a extends beside the liquid flow element 111 and is offset relative to the liquid interface 115 along the needle insertion direction. In the illustrated example, the key pen base 169b is substantially flush with the surface of the surrounding base wall 169a, and the key pen base 169b and the base wall 169a together form the base of the corresponding recesses 171a, 171b. The longitudinal key pen portion 165b extends in the main liquid flow direction DL, approximately to the plane (level) of the liquid interface 115, for example, less than approximately 5 mm from the edge 116 of the liquid interface along the second interface dimension d2, or substantially flush with it. The length KL of the vertical key pen portion 165b extending from the base 169a (see, for example, see...) Figure 21The diameter can be at least approximately 15 mm, at least approximately 20 mm, or approximately 23 mm. The interface structure 105 includes a pair of pen base holes 185 on opposite sides of the liquid channel 117 in the recessed base 169a for a corresponding pair of key pens 165.

[0228] In one example, the base portion 183 includes at least one reference portion 187 to facilitate proper positioning of the key pen 165 within the pen base hole 185 of the interface structure 105 of the supply device 101. The key pen reference portion 187 can help determine and fix the rotational orientation of the key pen 165 relative to the base wall 169a. Furthermore, the base 169a may include at least one opposing reference portion 189 at the pen base hole 185. The number of reference portions 187 of the key pen 165 and / or opposing reference portions 189 of the key pen hole portion 185 can determine the maximum number of predetermined rotational orientations.

[0229] Figures 29 to 32 Examples of different predetermined rotational orientations of the key pen 165 are illustrated. Each predetermined rotational orientation of the key pen 165 in the interface structure 105 can be associated with a corresponding shaped key slot 167 of the corresponding receiving station 107. Therefore, each rotational orientation can be associated with a specific color or type of printing liquid in the container 103. A plurality of reference portions 187 can be provided directly at the base 169b of the key pen 165, surrounding the base portion 183 in a plane parallel to the first interface dimension d1 and the third interface dimension d3. Furthermore, the pen base hole 185 may include at least one opposing reference portion 189 to facilitate alignment of the at least one key pen reference portion 187 with the at least one opposing reference portion 189.

[0230] In the illustrated example, both the base portion 183 and the base wall 169a include multiple matching reference portions 187, 189. In other examples, the number of reference portions 187 on the key pen 165 may differ from the number of relative reference portions 189 on the base wall 169a, while still facilitating a predetermined number of rotational orientations for the key pen 165. In one example, the base wall 169a includes only one reference portion 189, while the corresponding key pen 165 includes multiple reference portions 187, or conversely, the key pen 165 includes only one reference portion 187, while the base wall 169a includes multiple reference portions 189. In examples using multiple reference portions 187 and / or relative reference portions 189, these reference portions 187, 189 may be arranged in regular positions, for example, equidistant from each other around a circle. In the illustrated example, the reference portions 187 and relative reference portions 189 are implemented as teeth, wherein each key pen reference portion tooth is spatially associated with a corresponding shape between adjacent relative reference portion teeth. Accordingly, Figures 29 to 32The illustration shows the orientation of an exemplary key pen 165 having a plurality of reference portions 187 around it, wherein the reference portions 187 are in the form of teeth, and Figure 33 The illustration shows a pen hole portion 185 in a base 169a having only a single opposing reference portion 189 (also toothed here, for engagement between two key pen reference portion teeth 187). The distal ends of the key pen reference portion teeth 187 also engage the inner edge 185a of the pen hole portion 185 where there are no opposing reference portion teeth. This serves to demonstrate that the rotational orientation of the key pen 165 can be selected and fixed by different numbers of reference portions 187, 189.

[0231] Based on the same principle, the base portion 183 of the key pen can be provided with only a single reference portion 187, such as Figure 34 As shown, the pen hole portion 185 may be provided with multiple relative reference portions 189. The key pen 165 can be aligned with a predetermined rotational orientation by aligning the reference teeth 187 of the key pen 165 between two relative reference portions 189 of the pen hole portion 185.

[0232] In other examples, the reference portion 187 and / or the relative reference portion 189 may be defined by visual markings, other markings, corners, ribs, notches, cuts, undulations, or other suitable features, wherein opposite reference portions and relative reference portions may also be provided in different suitable numbers. In another example, the outer edge of the base portion 183 and / or the inner edge of the pen hole portion 185 may have a polyhedral profile having three, four, six, twelve, or any number of faces around the pen's longitudinal axis Ck, to similarly allow the key pen 165 to have a predetermined number of different rotational orientations relative to the base wall 169a, wherein, in this disclosure, the outer surface and corners of the polyhedron may be regarded as reference portions 187 and 189, respectively.

[0233] In one example, the key pen 165 and / or the base wall 169a include at least twelve reference portions, which facilitates attaching the same key pen 165 relative to the base wall 169a in at least twelve different rotational orientations, and thus associating the same interface structural features with twelve different liquid types. In other examples, for example, six, three, sixteen, twenty-four, or different numbers of reference portions 187 and / or relative reference portions 189 may be used, for example, to associate with different numbers of liquid types.

[0234] In one example, the base portion 183 includes a flange or disc 186 defining a key pen base 169b, the remainder of the cylindrical base portion 183 extending rearward from the flange or disc along the needle insertion direction, and, in the assembled condition, a longitudinal key pen portion 165b extending forward from the disc 186 along the main liquid flow direction DL. In one example, the pen axis Ck intersects approximately the centerline of the disc 186. The disc 186 is adapted to fit into a key pen base hole 185 in the recessed base portion 169a. The disc edge may include reference teeth regularly positioned around the disc edge and equidistant from each other, as previously described. In the assembled condition, the rear portion of the disc 186 and the reference teeth (on the side of the disc 186 opposite to the key pen base 169b) can be supported on a disc support surface 184 in the wall defining the recessed base portion 169a. Figure 21 and Figure 24 The best illustration is shown in the middle. The support surface 184 is recessed into the recessed base 169a to help position the pen base 169b (e.g., disc 186) and to counteract, for example, the inward thrust of the key pen 165 on the support surface 184 when the key pen 165 is pushed against the opposite actuator, such as the lever 179.

[0235] In another example, the base portion 183 includes at least one snap-fit ​​finger 191 at its rear end 188 for inserting and snapping the key pen 165 into and onto the interface structure 105. In the illustrated example, the rear end 188 of the base portion 183 includes two opposing snap-fit ​​fingers 191, possibly... Figure 27 and Figure 28 Best viewed in the middle. The snap-fit ​​finger 191 may include an abutting edge 191b that abuts against an additional support wall surface 191c of the interface structure 105, for example, the additional support wall surface being offset rearward from the base 169a. In the illustrated example, the support wall 191c extends between the base 169a and the rear wall 154d. Therefore, the disc 186 of the key pen 165 and the snap-fit ​​finger 191, as well as the support surfaces 184, 191c of the interface structure 105, can secure or clamp the key pen 165 relative to the interface structure 105 in two directions along the pen axis Ck. Furthermore, the protruding reference portion can fix the rotational orientation of the key pen.

[0236] In other examples, the key pen 165 may be attached to the wall of the interface structure 105 in different ways, or it may be integrally molded with the wall of the interface structure 105. In one example, the base portion 183 may include threads to screw the key pen into the base 169b.

[0237] The longitudinally extending key pen portion 165b is adapted to provide at least one of a locking / unlocking function, a guiding function, and an actuating function. Regarding the latter function, the key pen 165b can be adapted to actuate an actuator, such as at least one of a mechanical actuator and a switch located in the receiving station. In some examples, the longitudinally extending key pen portion may only contribute to obtaining two of the aforementioned functions, such as only the guiding and actuating functions without the locking / unlocking function, or only the locking / unlocking and guiding functions without the actuating function. In other examples, the key pen is used only for guiding or actuating without performing other functions, such as the locking / unlocking function. In yet another example, the key pen is used to guide the liquid interface 115 with relatively precise aim relative to the liquid needle of the receiving station, wherein some or all of the aforementioned guiding surfaces 141, 141b, 145, 143, 143b, and 147 may be modified or omitted.

[0238] For example, the key pen 165 is associated with a supply device for a certain color or type of printing liquid and is configured to pass through a corresponding receiving key slot 167 (see, for example, see...). Figure 20 , Figure 21 In the first example, the key pen 165 is shaped to pass through a key slot 167 of a first receiving station of the printer and is blocked by a non-matching key slot 167 of another receiving station of the same printer to prevent color or liquid type mixing. In the second example, the single-shaped key pen 165 can be adapted to pass through different key slots 167 of corresponding different receiving stations of the same printer, associated with different liquids, wherein the key pen 165 only has guiding and / or actuating functions, but not necessarily color / type locking functions. The first example can be referred to as a distinguishing key pen, while the second example can be referred to as an actuating key pen or a master key pen. For example, a master key pen can be used for each working fluid to connect to different receiving stations of a single printing system, or simply for alternative supply devices. An actuating key pen can be applied to a supply device of a monochrome printing system with only a single receiving station, and is only used to actuate a single actuator without color distinguishing. Different types of key pens can be applied for different functions.

[0239] Based on the first example mentioned earlier, a set of supply devices 101 can be configured, each including a similar interface structure 105 and container 103 construction, where one container 103 contains a different liquid type than the other container 103, and the corresponding interface structure 105 has a different key pen configuration, for example, the key pen 165 is in a different rotational orientation about the corresponding pen axis Ck, to prevent installation on a receiving station that does not correspond to a specific liquid type. For example, different supply devices 101 (such as...) Figure 5 (As shown) may include different liquids and corresponding different key pen cross sections and / or different key pen orientations.

[0240] Figures 29 to 32 The illustration shows an example of the key pen shape as observed along the longitudinal axis Ck, straight to the base 169b of the key pen, where the cross-sectional key shape of the key pen portion 165b along the longitudinal direction is the same, but the rotational orientation is different. When installed in an interface structure, the plane of the cross-section can be parallel to the first interface dimension d1 and the third interface dimension d3. Multiple pairs of key pens can be provided in each corresponding interface structure, where the key pens in a pair can have the same or different rotational orientations relative to each other, and the key slot of the corresponding receiving station has a corresponding configuration. Figures 29 to 32 Different orientations can be associated with different liquid types and the matching rotational orientation of the corresponding keyway 167.

[0241] In the examples of these accompanying drawings, each key pen cross-section is Y-shaped, for example, passing through a matching Y-shaped key slot 167. Other exemplary cross-sectional key shapes may be T-shaped, V-shaped, L-shaped, I-shaped, X-shaped, or a point or series of points, or other geometric shapes. In this specification, for example, since the key pen 165 can rotate, a V-shape includes an L-shape, and an X-shape includes a + shape. The key shape may match the corresponding Y-shaped, V-shaped, L-shaped, I-shaped, T-shaped, or X-shaped key slot shape. For example, the cross-section of the protruding key pen portion 165b may correspond to a Y-shaped, V-shaped, L-shaped, I-shaped, T-shaped, X-shaped, etc., but may have discontinuous portions, wherein there are notches between the actuating surface regions 168. For example, the cross-section of the protruding key pen portion 165b can generally follow a Y-shaped, V-shaped, L-shaped, I-shaped, T-shaped, or X-shaped profile in a continuous or discontinuous manner, for example, corresponding to a corresponding key slot 167. Discontinuous embodiments may have separate distal actuating surface regions 168 with space between these surface regions. It should also be noted that while a Y-shaped key pen 165 can be associated with a Y-shaped key slot 167, in some cases, a V-shaped (e.g., L-shaped), I-shaped, or dot-shaped key pen 165 may also be used to pass through the Y-shaped key slot 167 while still actuating a corresponding actuator, such as a lever 179, and / or switch, behind the key slot 167.

[0242] Figure 27The longitudinal key pen portion 165b has three longitudinal wings 165d or flanges extending along and away from the pen axis Ck. Each wing 165d defines a branch of the Y. These wings 165d extend along the pen axis Ck in a direction of the second interface dimension d2. These wings 165d extend away from each other and away from the pen axis Ck, thereby providing a Y-shaped cross section. The intersection line Ck of the three wings 165d, i.e., the midline of the Y, can be located approximately on the pen axis Ck. In other examples, the intersection line Ck of the wings 165d can be offset from the center of the key pen base 169b and / or from the pen axis Ck. Similarly, the intersection line of a key pen with a V-shaped cross section can be at or near the center of the key pen base 169b or the key pen hole portion 185, or away from that center.

[0243] For example, the key pen 165 includes an actuation surface area 168 to actuate a mating actuator, such as a lever 179 or a switch, at the receiving station. The mating actuator may be positioned behind the key slot 167 to facilitate actuation of only mating key pens 165. The actuation surface area 168 may be located at the distal end of the longitudinal key pen portion 165b. (From...) Figure 19 , Figure 21 and Figure 35 As can be clearly seen, in some examples, the outer end of the actuation surface region 168 of the wing 165d defines the actuation surface 168, because these surfaces 168 engage the edge of the actuator rod when the interface structure 105 is inserted into the receiving station 107.

[0244] exist Figure 35 In the diagram, the actuating surface 168 is schematically indicated by a dashed circle at the point where the key slot 167 overlaps with the edge of the lever 179 (also indicated by a dashed line). For example, when the hollow lever 179 is actuated by a V-shaped or Y-shaped key pen 165, two or three separate actuating surface regions 168, spaced apart from each other, are located at a certain distance from the center of the pen or the longitudinal axis Ck, near the outer ends of the branches of the V or Y, respectively. These actuating surface regions engage the lever 179. One actuating surface region 168 may be sufficient to act on the actuator.

[0245] In another example, a central actuation surface area 168c may be present. The receiving station may include a lever portion, switch, or lever actuated via the central actuation surface area 168c. In one example, such a central actuation surface area 168c may be used for a master key pen, as explained below. Any key pen 165 having a suitable configuration and having any of the described actuation surface areas 168 can facilitate the installation and removal of the supply device 101 relative to the receiving station.

[0246] Figure 36Another example of a cross-section of the key pen 265 perpendicular to its longitudinal axis Ck is illustrated. The key pen 265 may include at least a single cylindrical or beam-shaped protruding longitudinal pin 165e, with an actuating surface area 168a at its distal end for actuating a lever 179. The pin 165e and its actuating surface area 168a may be positioned to pass through a corresponding Y-shaped or V-shaped keyway 167 and engage a corresponding actuator, such as the circular actuating edge of the lever 179. For keyways 167 with different orientations, the pin 165e needs to be positioned differently relative to the base 169b to pass through these keyways 167 with different orientations. Therefore, the key pen 165 (including or constituted by a single cylindrical pin 165e in a predetermined position) can provide a key pen that distinguishes liquid types, is sufficient to trigger actuators, and facilitates installation on a receiving station.

[0247] In other examples, such as Figure 36 As shown, additional pins 165f can be provided to pass through corresponding key slots and engage actuators 179, as indicated by dashed circles 165f. Thus, one or more cylindrical pin-shaped or beam-shaped longitudinal key pens 165e, 165f can extend from the base 169b along the pen axis Ck to pass through the key slot 167 and act on corresponding actuators, such as levers 179 or switches, via corresponding actuation surface areas 168a, 168b. Alternatively, the protruding key pen portions can be Y-shaped or V-shaped for the main portion of their length, and thus can expand toward different actuation surface areas 168a, 168b or converge toward a single actuation surface area 168a. Furthermore, a main or central protruding pen 165g can be provided, for example, extending to reach the interior of the base or lever 179.

[0248] Figure 37 An exemplary side view of such a key pen 265, having one or more such separate actuating surface regions 168a, 168b, is illustrated. The key pen has corresponding protruding pins 165e, 165f, which can be adapted to pass through a key slot and act on an actuator. In some examples, the longitudinal key pen portions 165e, 165f may include plastic or metal pins extending from the base walls 168a, 168b. The length of the pins 165e, 165f between the base 169 and the actuating surface regions 168a, 168b may be the same as previously shown in... Figures 27 to 32 The protruding key-pen part mentioned in the text is roughly the same as that in 165b.

[0249] See Figure 37A , Figure 35 and Figure 36The "master" key pen 265 may include at least one pin 165g having an actuating surface area 168C, the at least one pin being positioned to pass through key slots 167 of different shapes or orientations associated with different liquid types or colors, for example, through the center of such key slots 167. For example, at least one pin 165g may be positioned at a predetermined location such that it passes through multiple Y-shaped or V-shaped key slots 167 of different shapes or orientations associated with multiple receiving stations of different liquid types and / or colors, for example, relative to their bases or the center of the key slots 167. The pin 165g may extend generally parallel to the main liquid flow direction DL. The pin 165g may be positioned at a location corresponding to the center of a Y-shaped key slot 167, where the three branches of the Y intersect, such that the pin can pass through the center of the Y-shaped key slots 167 of different orientations.

[0250] In one example, such as Figure 37A As shown, the main key pen 265B extends beyond the interface front portion 254 and / or the liquid interface edge (e.g., edge 116 in other figures), as illustrated by the outline of the corresponding recess 271. For example, the main key pen 265B extends beyond the interface front portion 254 or the liquid interface edge 116 by at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 15 mm, or at least 20 mm, as observed along the third interface dimension d3. Therefore, the length of the key pen 265B can be at least approximately 30 mm, at least approximately 35 mm, at least approximately 40 mm, or at least approximately 45 mm, for example, measured between its base 269 and its actuation surface region 168c. When the interface structure is inserted into the receiving station, the extended master key pen 265B can extend into the hollow rod 279 until the distal actuating surface region 168c of the pen 265B engages the inner wall 279A of the rod 279. The master key pen 265B can then push the rod inward by abutting against this inner wall 279A, for example, to trigger the hook 161. The additional length beyond the interface front 254 or the edge of the liquid interface can be used to bridge the distance between the front edge of the rod 279 and the inner wall 279A on which the master key pen 265B acts. In other examples, the master key pen may have a different shape than a pin and / or may engage other types of actuators. A master key pen that is not differentiated between certain receiving stations may be useful for liquid supply devices regardless of color or type (e.g., working supply sources with working fluids), or for cost savings or other reasons.

[0251] In the example, the master key pen does not differentiate between receivers within a set of receivers, but rather between different groups of receivers. In other examples, key pens 265, 265B may include an extended pin similar to the currently extended pin 165g, but it is not used as the master key pen. Extended key pens 265, 265B can be configured to differentiate by color or liquid type. In other examples, a longer, non-pin-shaped key pen (similar to the master key pen 265B) with a similar extended shape may be used, for example, to engage the inner wall 179A of the engagement rod 179, or any other suitable actuating component.

[0252] Figure 38 The following illustration shows a different example of the cross-section of the key pen 265C. This cross-section is V-shaped. The key pen 265C includes a longitudinal key pen portion 165g, which has two wings 165d, these wings being... Figure 35 The indicated Y-shaped keyway 167 partially matches, is adapted to pass through, and actuates the lever 179, for example, through two corresponding external actuation surface regions 168d. Compared to the Y-shaped pen 165, the V-shaped pen 265c can be relatively flatter along its longitudinal axis. Accordingly, the key pen shape can be "reduced" while still performing its function. In the example, when using a Y-shaped or V-shaped keyway, an I-shaped key pen section can also be applied, or at least one point-shaped section or any other section that matches a portion of the V-shape or Y-shape and contacts the edge of the lever 179 can be applied.

[0253] Figure 39 Another illustrative example of a key pen 365 extending from its base 369 within a recess 371 is shown. This key pen 365 does not extend precisely parallel to the second interface dimension d2 or the main liquid flow direction DL. The key pen 365 extends along its longitudinal axis Ck, but not precisely parallel to the second interface dimension d2. The longitudinal axis Ck is skewed relative to the main liquid flow direction or the second interface dimension d2. Here, the longitudinal axis Ck of the key pen 365 extends approximately in the main liquid flow direction DL, but is skewed at an angle to said main liquid flow direction DL, while still allowing insertion through the key slot and actuation of the opposing actuator of the receiving station. The longitudinal distance between the base 369 of the key pen 365 and the actuation surface region 368 can be at least approximately 10 mm, at least approximately 12 mm, at least approximately 15 mm, at least approximately 20 mm, or at least approximately 23 mm. It should also be noted that, within the scope of this disclosure, a certain margin and skew angle relative to the main liquid flow direction is permissible for the key pen 365.

[0254] Figures 29 to 39Different examples of key pens are illustrated, which can be used in any interface structure of this disclosure and can be adapted to actuate certain actuators disposed in the receiving station. Although a single key pen is illustrated in these examples, key pens can be arranged in pairs on both sides of the liquid output end, as shown in other figures. Furthermore, the corresponding actuators, when actuated by these key pens, can trigger at least one of the following: (i) certain holding mechanisms for securing the supply device to the receiving station; and / or (ii) pump switching; and / or (iii) data communication; and / or (iv) other actions. The length of any exemplary key pen of this disclosure along the pen axis Ck between the key pen base and the actuation surface area can be at least approximately 10 mm, at least approximately 12 mm, at least approximately 15 mm, at least approximately 20 mm, or at least approximately 23 mm, wherein the actuation surface area can be approximately flush with the liquid output edge or the front of the interface structure. That is, exemplary extended (e.g., main) key pen types ( Figure 37A It can be at least approximately 30mm, at least approximately 35mm, at least approximately 40mm, or at least approximately 45mm.

[0255] Figure 40 The illustration shows a kit 100 of components for constructing a supply device 101 according to another example of the present disclosure. Kit 100 includes a container 103 for containing liquid. Kit 100 includes an interface structure 105. Kit 100 includes a liquid interface component 114 for a liquid channel of the interface structure 105. Kit 100 includes a key pen 165 for attachment to the interface structure 105. Kit 100 includes an integrated circuit 174 for attachment to the interface structure 105, the integrated circuit including an array of contact pads. Kit 100 includes at least one liquid interconnect element 134 for connecting a liquid inlet 124 of a liquid channel reservoir connection portion 129 of the interface structure 105 to the container 103 to allow liquid flow between the container 103 and the liquid channel 117. Kit 100 may further include a mechanical connection structure 106 for mechanically connecting the interface structure 105 to the container 103. At least under assembled conditions, the mechanical connection structure 106 can also serve as a reinforcing member along the corresponding side 125 of the support structure 135. The corresponding side 125 may be the rear of the container 103.

[0256] The at least one container 103 includes a reservoir 133 that is at least partially retractable, and a support structure 135. The container 103 may further include a label 135a, wherein information on the label may indicate the installation orientation of the supply device 101, and / or where the supply device 101 is pushed into the receiving station. For this purpose, the label may extend at least partially at the rear portion 125 of the support structure 135. The support structure 135 may be a folded cardboard box-shaped structure that houses the reservoir 133. The support structure 135 includes a protrusion 123 extending near the front portion 131 of the support structure 135, and a rear portion 125 opposite to the front portion 131. An opening 113A (not visible in this view) is provided in the bottom 113 of the support structure 135 near the rear portion 125 to allow the channel reservoir connection portion 129 and the input end 124 of the liquid passage of the interface structure 105 to pass through the support structure 135 and connect to the reservoir 133. Under assembled conditions, the channel reservoir connection portion 129 may extend through the bottom opening 113A into the support structure 135, while the remainder of the interface structure 105 may project downwards away from the bottom 113, the extent of which is defined in this disclosure by a first interface dimension d1. The kit 100 may further include at least one liquid interconnect element 134 near the bottom 113 and rear 125 of the reservoir 133 to facilitate connection between the reservoir 133 and the channel reservoir connection portion 129. The liquid interconnect element 134 may include an interconnect nozzle attached to or integral with the neck of the reservoir 133.

[0257] The support structure 135 is illustrated in the open condition, with the rear flap open to allow the reservoir 133 to be inserted into the support structure 135. The interface structure 105 and / or the reservoir 133 can be connected to the support structure 135 along the rear and bottom openings 113a by means of a mechanical connection structure 106 extending near the rear portion 125 and the bottom opening 113a. The interface structure 105 and / or the reservoir 133 partially extends through the bottom opening 113a. The mechanical connection structure 106 may include at least one clamping profile for clamping to the support structure 135 during assembly. In the assembled condition, the mechanical connection structure 106 may reinforce the rear portion 125 of the supply device 101, for example, to facilitate pushing the rear wall 125 during insertion and ejection. In the assembled condition, the mechanical connection structure 106 may be at least in the center plane CP as observed along the third container dimension D3 (e.g., see...). Figure 9 When its cross-section is observed, it is roughly L-shaped.

[0258] The mechanical connection structure 106 extends primarily between the reservoir 133 and the support structure 135, along the respective first wall 113 and rear wall 135 inside the support structure 135, at least partially along the opening 113a and at least partially around the interconnecting element 134, for example, between the flanges of the interconnecting element 134. The mechanical connection structure 106 may include at least one wedge for clamping the reservoir wall and the support structure wall, for example, by wedging the respective walls of the support structure 135 and the reservoir 133 between the mechanical connection structure 106 and the flanges of the interconnecting element 134.

[0259] Figure 40 The exemplary kit’s liquid interface component 114 may include a seal 120 (e.g., a sealing plug) and a ball valve component (to be placed at the downstream end of the liquid passage 117 of the interface structure 105) to form part of the liquid interface 115.

[0260] In one aspect, this disclosure provides an intermediate sub-assembly of a supply device 101 without an interface structure 105, such as a container including a printed liquid reservoir 133 and a support structure 135. A set of components for assembling the container 103 can be provided.

[0261] Storage 133 will be placed Figure 40In the support structure 135, the support structure 135 can provide a box-shaped or small cubic structure to extend at least partially around the reservoir 133 when folded and installed, wherein the installed reservoir and support structure define a container 103. The container 103 has a first container size D1, a second container size D2, and a third container size D3. The support structure 135 is adapted to at least partially surround and support the reservoir 133 and provide rigidity to the container 103. The reservoir 133 includes a bag for containing printing liquid, which is at least partially flexible to contract when printing liquid is withdrawn from the reservoir 133, and at least one wall of the bag is configured to inhibit fluid exchange. The reservoir 133 includes interconnecting elements 134, 434, or is attached to interconnecting elements, for example, via a reservoir neck. The neck includes an opening into the bag for discharging printing liquid from the bag. The maximum inner diameter of the neck may be less than half of the third container size D3 and / or the second container size D2. In the filled state, when installed in the support structure 135, at least approximately two-thirds, three-quarters, or four-fifths of the length of the bag protrudes away from the neck along the second container size D2, and a smaller volume 423A may extend on the opposite side 425 of the neck, for example, the rear side. In the installed and folded state, the support structure 135 includes generally vertical walls defining the first container size D1, the second container size D2, and the third container size D3, where the first size D1 and the second size D2 are larger than the third size D3. The first wall 113 defining the second size D2 and the third size D3 includes an opening 113a adjacent to the neck when the reservoir 133 is positioned in the support structure 135 (e.g., see...). Figure 22 This allows for the connection of another fluid structure to the neck. Such another fluid structure could be interface structure 105. With the support structure 135 mounted and folded, the opening 113a in the first wall 113 is positioned adjacent to another wall 125 adjacent to the first wall 113, which is parallel to the first dimension D1 and the third dimension D3.

[0262] In one aspect, this disclosure relates to a method for assembling different components to obtain a supply device 101, wherein at least one of these components is collected after previous use. The collected at least one component may be any of the different exemplary supply features described within and / or within this disclosure. For example, after the supply device 101 is depleted, the interface structure 105 may be separated from the container 103. For example, after such collection, the key pen 165 of the interface structure 105 and the single-molded base structure 105-1 may be separated. Then, one of the following may be attached to the base structure 105-1 in an orientation corresponding to the desired receiving station and liquid type: (i) a newly manufactured key pen 165; or (ii) a previously used and collected key pen 165. For example, similar to the original component before first use, the new or reused key pen 165 may be fitted into the key slot 167 of the base structure 105-1. For example, a reference portion 187 and / or a relative reference portion 189 may be used to facilitate proper rotational positioning. Next, the interface structure 105 can be connected to a newly constructed, refilled storage unit 133 or a refilled, reused storage unit 133. The storage unit 133 and / or support structure 135 can be newly manufactured before refilling and then connected to the recycled base structure 105-1, or at least a portion of the storage unit 133 and / or support structure 135 can be recycled before being connected to the base structure 105-1. Therefore, compared to its first use, the recycled base structure 105-1 can be reused for different liquid types, different printer platforms, different liquid volumes, etc. The original integrated circuit 174 can also be replaced, refurbished, or replaced with a new integrated circuit 174 to match the desired liquid type, workstation, and / or platform.

[0263] Figure 40A The illustration shows an example of an unfilled container 133A. The unfilled container 133A can be a flexible bag that can be substantially flat in its empty, unfilled state. For example, the bag in its empty state can be defined primarily by two opposing films joined or folded at a short outer edge of the unfilled bag. For example, the outer edge can be a folded edge between the two opposing joined films, or the two separate opposing films can be welded together. The unfilled flat bag can have a length LA and a width WA. In the filled state, i.e., in the state where the container 133A is at least partially inflated, the length LA and width WA may be difficult to distinguish and, for example, do not correspond to or extend along any of the previously mentioned container dimensions D1, D2, D3.

[0264] The reservoir 133A includes an interconnect element 134A, such as a reservoir connection portion or cover for connecting to a liquid channel of an interface structure. The interconnect element 134A may be the neck of the reservoir 133A. The interconnect element 134A may have an internal liquid channel and an external flange (e.g., Figure 22 (As shown), to facilitate the connection of the support structure, mechanical connection structure 106, and interface structure. Interconnect element 134A may be offset from the center of the unfilled and flattened reservoir 133A. Interconnect element 134A may be offset from the center of the width WA of the unfilled and relatively flattened reservoir 133A, and / or from the center of the length LA, for example, relative to a corner adjacent to the unfilled flattened reservoir 133A. Interconnect element 134A may be connected to one of these opposing membranes.

[0265] Figure 41 The illustration shows a supply device 401, in which a container 403 includes a reservoir 433 that is at least partially retractable, wherein a protrusion 423 of the reservoir 433 extends beyond the liquid interface edge of the interface structure 405 in the main liquid flow direction DL. In the illustrated example, no separate support structure, such as a tray or box, is provided. Figure 41 The device 401 can be an intermediate product for further assembly or a finished product for direct connection to a receiving station. For example, if the supply device 401 is a finished product, certain reinforcing members can be provided along the reservoir 433, or it can be integrated with the reservoir. The container 403 includes a fluid interconnect element 434 for connection to the interface structure 405. Thus, the interface structure 405 is connected to and extends from the fluid interconnect element 434, rather than directly from the bottom wall of the reservoir. The range of the first dimension d1 of the interface structure 405 (which determines both the height and the direction of the height) can be measured along the direction of the first dimension D1, d1 between (i) the deepest bottom 413 of the protrusion 423 or the distal end of the fluid interconnect element 434, and (ii) the distal side 437 of the interface structure 405. In another definition, the first interface dimension d1 can be determined by the distance between the outer distal side 437 of the interface structure 405 and the front top edge 454b just above the fluid interface. Even if the interface structure 405 does not extend directly from the bottom surface 413 of the container 403, the height of the interface structure 405 can be determined by the height between the distal side 437 and the front edge 454b, within which the following interface components are included: such as a liquid channel needle receiving portion and other interface components, such as at least one of an integrated circuit contact pad, a key pen, a guide feature, etc. Furthermore, as well as... Figure 26 As shown, the interface structure 405 may include a middle section of a channel having a liquid inlet opening to receive liquid from a container. The middle section and the inlet end extend beyond the profile height of the interface structure 405 and partially enter the liquid interconnect element 434 or the container 403.

[0266] Figures 42 to 47 Examples of supply devices of this disclosure in different operational orientations are illustrated, wherein, for each example, the interface structure is positioned differently relative to the container. For example, in Figure 42 and Figure 43 In this context, the interface structure protrudes from the horizontal side of the container. Figure 44 In the middle, the interface structure protrudes from the first side of the container at a certain distance from the opposite side, which is adjacent to the first side and at a right angle. Figure 45 In this design, the interface structure protrudes from the container wall near the front, at a certain distance from the rear, with the liquid interface extending from the front. Figure 46 and Figure 47 In this design, the interface structure protrudes upwards from the top of the container. These different orientations and configurations can be facilitated because the output end of certain exemplary shrinkable liquid bag reservoirs of this disclosure can be oriented and positioned in any direction with minimal influence from gravity.

[0267] exist Figure 42 In the exemplary supply device 501A, during installation, the interface structure 505A extends from the lateral side 513A of the container 503A along a first interface dimension d1. Here, the first container dimension D1 and the first interface dimension d1 extend horizontally, but the supply device may be skewed compared to the orientation shown in the figure. The needle insertion direction extends approximately horizontally along the corresponding second dimensions D2, d2, which are perpendicular to the first dimensions D1, d1 and enter the page. Figure 42 The supply device 501A may include a protrusion 523A of a container 503A that extends beyond the liquid interface 515A along the second dimension D2, d2. Accordingly, for the exemplary orientation and supply device of this figure, the third dimension D3, d3 (referred to in other examples as the “width” of the container and interface structures, respectively) extends vertically.

[0268] exist Figure 43 In the exemplary supply device 501B, the interface structure 505B extends from a lateral side 513B parallel to the first interface dimension d1. In the figures, this lateral side is generally horizontal, where "generally" is also intended to include skew conditions relative to a precise horizontal direction, as explained above. In this example, the needle insertion direction near the corresponding liquid channel portion of the liquid interface, and the main liquid flow direction, can extend generally vertically. The protruding portion 523B of the container 503B protrudes beyond the liquid interface 515B of the interface structure 505B along the second dimension D2 in the main liquid flow direction DL, approximately perpendicular to the first dimension D1 of the container, and its protrusion distance PP can be several times the second interface dimension d2. In one example scenario, Figure 43The supply device 501B can be suspended, in its illustrated orientation, onto the receiver station of the main printer, for example, onto a fluid needle that extends upwards on one side of the printer, wherein the key pen of the supply device extends downwards to actuate the actuator of the receiver station. The supply side and printer side key and retaining mechanisms (if present) can be adapted to accommodate a vertical mounting position.

[0269] Figure 44 The illustration shows another exemplary supply device 501C with enlarged container volumes 523C2, 523C3. An interface structure 505C protrudes outward relative to the bottom 513C of the container 503C at distances PP, PP2 from both the front 531C and the rear 525C of the container 503C, respectively. For example, the interface structure 505C may protrude from the bottom 513C of the container 503C, near the middle of the bottom 513C, between the front 531C and the rear 525C of the container 503C. The container 503C includes a first protrusion 523C that extends beyond the liquid interface 515C by a protrusion range PP along the main liquid flow direction DL. In this example, the container 503C includes a second protrusion 523C2 opposite to the first protrusion 523C, protruding in the opposite direction relative to the main liquid flow direction DL. In the illustrated example, the second protrusion 523C2 extends beyond the rear portion 526C of the interface structure 505C by a second protrusion range PP2. Furthermore, the second protrusion 523C2 may further include an additional volume extension 523C3, which protrudes downwards in the illustration, but may also protrude upwards or in any other direction. In one example, the second protrusion 523C2 contributes to increasing the volume of the container 503C. With the supply device 501C installed, the second protrusion 523C2 may protrude beyond the outline of the printer receiving station. In practice, different types of volume protrusions / extensions 523C2, 523C3 can be added to any container of this disclosure in any direction, for example, to increase the volume or shape of the container. Figure 44 In one example, these volumetric expansions are integrated with the container. In other examples, the volumes can be connected to the container via separate fluid connections.

[0270] Figure 44Two different configurations of liquid channels 517C1 and 517C2 are illustrated. Both configurations are possible within the scope of this disclosure. The first 517C1 of the liquid channels 517C1 includes a reservoir connection portion angled to the needle receiving portion, wherein, at least in the illustrated orientation, the liquid channel 517C1 is connected to the top of the interface structure 505C. Another exemplary liquid channel configuration 517C2 may have a reservoir connection portion near the rear portion 526C of the interface structure 505C to connect to the volume expansion portion 523C3, at least in the illustrated orientation, wherein the reservoir connection portion need not be angled to the needle receiving portion. The neck of the reservoir and / or interconnecting elements may be connected to the liquid channel 517C2 near the rear portion 526C of the interface structure 505C. In other examples, the volume expansion portion 523C3 may be configured differently, connecting to the corresponding liquid channel on the other side of the interface structure 505C.

[0271] In another example, container 503C has a single cuboid shape extending along a second container dimension D2, the cuboid shape having a first protrusion 523C and a second protrusion 523C2, each protruding beyond the rear and front of the second dimension d2 of the interface structure, but not exceeding the additional volume extension 523C3. In another example, interface structure 505C may include certain extending, relatively rigid support elements that project rearwardly below such a second protrusion 523C2, for example to mechanically support the weight of the filled second protrusion 523C2, which, when installed, can extend beyond the receiving station.

[0272] Figure 45 The illustration shows another exemplary supply device 501D, in which the liquid inlet 515D is positioned approximately close to or flush with the front portion 531D of the container 503D, below the bottom 513D of the container 503D. The supply device 501D includes a second protrusion 523D2 that protrudes beyond the rear portion 526D of the inlet structure 505D along a second protrusion range PP2 parallel to the second dimension D2 and opposite to the main liquid flow direction DL, extending beyond the rear portion 526D of the inlet structure 505D. For example, it is similar to... Figure 44 However, the difference is that there is no first protrusion (423C) that protrudes beyond the liquid interface 515D. Similar to... Figure 44 , Figure 45 The second protruding portion 523D2 may include additional extensions (523C3) in other directions. Compared to the examples of this disclosure, the supply device 501D may, for example, facilitate obtaining a shallower receiving station or provide an alternative design. In another example, Figure 44 or Figure 45 The supply device 501D can help achieve a generally vertical installation, wherein the second protrusion 523D2 protrudes at least partially from the corresponding receiving station or printer and protrudes upward.

[0273] Figure 46 and Figure 47 Other exemplary supply devices 501E are illustrated, wherein for each device 501E, in its installed orientation, the interface structure 505E protrudes upward from the top 531E. In one example, the receiving station 507E can be manually moved toward the interface structure 505E (e.g., by moving it towards the interface structure 505E). Figure 47 (As shown) and slides it onto interface structure 505E to connect receiving station 507E to interface structure 505E to establish a fluid connection. In some examples, the volume of container 503E may be greater than approximately 500 ml, greater than approximately 1 L, or greater than approximately 3 L. With such a large volume of container 503E, there is reason to choose a system in which, as in other examples of this disclosure, receiving station 507E is moved toward supply device 501E, rather than supply device, due to the weight of supply device 501E in its filled state and / or due to its relatively large volume. In the illustrated example, the third dimension D3 of container 503E is significantly larger than the third dimension d3 of interface structure 505E. In some examples, the third dimension D3 of container 503E is at least twice or at least three times the third dimension d3 of interface structure 505E.

[0274] It should be understood that, although relative to the previously disclosed supply device in the previous drawings (e.g. Figure 8 and Figure 9 As far as the supply device is concerned, in Figures 42 to 47 In the diagram, some components of the supply device have moved along the straight axis and / or rotated at right angles, but according to Figures 42 to 47 In other similar examples, the corresponding supply device components can be deflected at non-right angles, and the corresponding dimensions D1, d1, D2, d2, D3, d3 can also be deflected at corresponding non-right angles. Furthermore, Figure 8 and Figure 9The supply device can be tilted relative to the illustrations under the installed condition. For example, the supply device can be installed on the receiving station in a tilted condition, wherein the main liquid flow direction DL is tilted relative to the horizontal or vertical direction, and / or rotated about it, and the corresponding dimensions D1, d1, D2, d2, D3, d3 are tilted accordingly. In any case, it should also be understood that when references are made throughout this disclosure to rear, front, lateral side, side, bottom, height, width, or length, or other aspects related to size, orientation, or direction, relative to the surrounding three-dimensional space, this should not be construed as the orientation of the components of the supply device, unless in some examples this is functionally determined. Rather, certain aspects related to orientation are described for illustrative and clarity purposes.

[0275] Figure 48 The illustrations show front (left) and side (right) views of different examples of an interface structure 605A for supplying containers, for example, the dimensions d1, d2, d3 of the interface structure refer to... Figure 8 and Figure 9 An exemplary small-profile interface structure is described. Figure 48 The interface structure 605A includes a liquid interface 615A with recesses 671A on both lateral sides, and an interface front portion including an interface front edge 654Ab, one of which houses an integrated circuit 674. The interface front push edge 654Ab (serving as both an interface front push area and a front edge) is sufficient to be pushed against a protective structure of a pin. The recesses 671A may be at least partially open at the lateral side 639A, thereby forming a lateral opening, which may also define a lateral guide feature 638A, such as a corresponding guide groove 642A.

[0276] The leading edge 654Ab of the interface extends adjacent to the liquid interface 615A and opposite to the distal side 637A, for example, to push the protective structure to release the fluid needle. The leading edge 654Ab of the interface extends from its protruding container side adjacent to the interface structure 605A when assembled onto the container. An integrated circuit contact pad 675A is disposed on the inner side of the wall defining the distal side 637A of the liquid interface 615A, laterally adjacent to the liquid outlet interface 615A.

[0277] Interface structure 605A includes a lateral guide feature 638A and an intermediate guide feature 640A, used to engage with the corresponding guide rail of the receiving station, for example, respectively with... Figure 17 Another exemplary guide feature 138 and 140 are associated with guide tracks. Figure 48In the current example, the longitudinal guide feature 638A on the lateral side is disposed at the lateral side 639A of the interface structure 605A, for example, in the form of opposing edges 645A extending along the second dimension d2 of the interface structure 605A, wherein the opposing edges 645A can be adapted to engage corresponding guide tracks. A guide groove 642A is formed by the opposing edges 645A. The longitudinal guide feature 638A on the lateral side can facilitate guiding the interface structure 605A in the direction along the second interface dimension d2, while restricting the degree of freedom of movement in the direction along the first interface dimension d1. The intermediate longitudinal guide feature 640A is disposed at the distal side 637A of the interface structure 605A, for example, in the form of opposing edges 647A extending along the second dimension d2 of the interface structure 605A, wherein the opposing edges 647A can be adapted to engage corresponding guide tracks. The intermediate longitudinal guide feature 640A can facilitate guiding the interface structure 605A in a direction parallel to the second interface dimension d2, while restricting the degree of freedom of movement in the direction along the third interface dimension d3. The intermediate guide groove 644A can be formed by opposing edges 647A. The functions of edges 645A and 647A can be similar to those previously mentioned regarding… Figure 14 , Figure 17A and Figure 17B The second lateral guide surface 145 and the second intermediate guide surface 147 are explained.

[0278] In addition, the through groove 642A can be used as a gap for the hook (e.g. Figure 18 (As shown). The stop surface 663A may be provided at the front of the groove 642A, and it may be part of the transverse front wall portion 663AA. In some examples, one of the intermediate groove 644A and the transverse groove 642A is a clearance groove for separation from the corresponding guide rail.

[0279] Figure 49 The illustration shows an example of a supply device 601B, wherein the interface structure 605B has separately manufactured interface components. Figure 49 An exemplary interface structure 605B with reduced guide features 641B, 643B is also illustrated. Interface structure 605B includes a liquid channel interface 615B, interface front regions and edges 654Ba, 654Bb respectively adjacent to interface 615B, a key component 665B containing a corresponding key pen, and an integrated circuit component 675B containing contact pads. For illustrative purposes, these components are drawn as separate blocks, corresponding to individual parts that need to be assembled together to form interface structure 605B. These components can be individually molded and / or extruded.

[0280] Interface structure 605B includes a straight, flat lateral guide surface 641B at a lateral side 639B and a straight, flat distal guide surface 643B at a distal side 637B. For example, the lateral guide surface 641B extends substantially parallel to a first interface dimension d1 and a second interface dimension d2, and the distal guide surface 643B extends parallel to the second interface dimension d2 and a third interface dimension d3. In one example, guide surfaces 641B and 643B are adapted for engagement. Figure 17 The guide surfaces 641B and 643B facilitate sliding of the interface structure 605B within the receiving station in directions parallel to the second dimensions D2 and d2, while restricting the degree of freedom of movement in directions parallel to the third dimensions D3 and d3, for example, between corresponding opposite lateral guide tracks or surfaces within the receiving station. However, the guide surfaces of the interface structure still allow movement along the first dimensions D1 and d1, for example, within the... Figure 49 The figure shows a certain degree of freedom of motion moving upwards.

[0281] Figure 50 A diagram illustrating another example of the supply device 601C is shown. Similar to other examples, the interface structure 605C of the supply device 601C includes a liquid interface 615C, corresponding interface front regions and edges 654Ca, 654Cb, and an integrated circuit contact pad 675C near the distal side 637C. In one example, an intermediate guide feature 638C is disposed adjacent to the distal side 637C of the interface structure 605C. The intermediate guide feature 638C may include at least one surface for engaging a corresponding guide rail to a receiving station. The lateral guide feature is omitted in this exemplary interface structure 605C, where the user may need to manually position the liquid interface 615C relative to the fluid needle without a guide surface or with only a few guide surfaces, or in examples where the intermediate guide feature 638C is present, the intermediate guide feature 638C can provide some guidance for positioning. Furthermore, the opposite lateral sidewall 651C of the container 603C can provide coarse guidance relative to the receiving station. In the illustrated example, recess 671C extends along the bottom side 613C of the container and along the liquid channel needle receiving portion of the liquid channel. An integrated circuit and / or integrated circuit contact pad 675C extends within recess 671C, with its contact surface exposed towards the container 603C. The recess opens to a lateral side opposite to the liquid channel needle receiving portion.

[0282] Figure 50AA diagram illustrating another example of the supply device 601D and its interface structure 605D is shown, wherein a corresponding recess 671D opens toward the lateral side 639D of the interface structure 605D. The recess 671D is defined by a base wall 669D, a wall 617D of the needle receiving portion of the liquid channel, a corresponding container side 613D, and an inner wall 637D1 of the distal side 637D of the interface structure 605D. A key pen 665D extends from the corresponding base wall 669D adjacent to and substantially parallel to the liquid channel. An intermediate guide feature 640D, such as a guide groove, may be provided adjacent to and along the needle receiving portion of the liquid channel (its output interface 615D is shown). The intermediate guide feature 640D can be adapted to restrict the degree of freedom of movement of the mating guide surface of the receiving station in the opposite direction parallel to the third interface dimension. The distal end edge 637D of the interface structure 605D may define: (i) a first lateral guide surface 641D, for example, to engage a lateral guide surface in a receiving station; and / or (ii) a second lateral guide surface 645D, for example, to engage a lateral guide rail of a receiving station, the first lateral guide surface 641D and the second lateral guide surface 645D extending along the second interface dimension.

[0283] In another example, the opening at the lateral side 639D between the distal side 637D and the interface structure 605D of the container 603D, protruding from its side 613D, can define a gap slot 642D for separation from, rather than being guided by, the lateral guide rail of the receiving station. Similarly, the distal side 637D can be provided with an intermediate guide gap slot instead of an intermediate guide slot 640D. Since some guidance can be obtained via a key pen 665D in some examples, it may not be necessary to provide a separate guide feature, but rather it may be necessary to separate it from some guide rail for entry into the receiving station.

[0284] Figure 50BA diagram illustrating another example of the supply device 601E and its interface structure 605E is shown. The interface structure 605E includes a key pen 665E extending parallel to and alongside the needle receiving portion of the liquid dispensing channel (only its liquid interface 615E is shown). Each key pen 665E includes a base portion 683E at its base for connecting the key pen 665E to a corresponding base wall 669E. In this example, the base wall 669E of the key pen 665E extends from the side 613E from which the interface structure 605E protrudes from the container 603D. For example, the interface structure 605E may have a support wall 637Ea1, for example, generally parallel to the container side 613E, near the proximal side 637E1 from which the interface structure 605E protrudes. The key pen base portion 683E extends from the proximal side 637E1. The key pen 665E may be curved between the base portion 683E and the longitudinal key pen portion, which extends substantially parallel to the needle insertion direction NI and the main liquid flow direction DL of the liquid channel needle receiving portion. A proximal support wall 637Ea1 may extend to the lateral side, where a lateral guide feature 638E, such as a first lateral guide surface 641E, may be formed at the end edge of this wall 637Ea1 to restrict the degree of freedom of movement of the guide surface relative to the receiving station 609E in the direction of the third interface dimension. For example, the interface structure 605E does not engage the extended guide track of the receiving station. The interface structure 605E may further include an integrated circuit and / or an integrated circuit contact pad 675E along the support wall 637Ea that defines the distal side 637E, wherein the wall along which the distal side 637E and the integrated circuit contact pad extend may be parallel to the third and second interface dimensions. The recess 671E is defined by the distal side 637E and the wall of the contact pad 675, the needle receiving portion of the liquid output channel, and the proximal side 637E1 of the interface structure 605E. One of the key pens 665E may extend along the recess 671E or be partially within the recess.

[0285] exist Figure 50A and Figure 50B In this configuration, the key pen 665E may have a predetermined cross-section to perform one of the following: (i) differentiation between receiving stations; or (ii) no differentiation between receiving stations, wherein the latter may be the main key pen. The distal actuation surface regions of the key pens 665D, 665E may extend substantially to the front portions 654D, 654E, or further extend beyond the front portions 654D, 654E from the interface structures 605D, 605E, as previously explained with respect to other exemplary key pen structures.

[0286] Figure 50CA diagram of another exemplary supply device 601F and interface structure 605F is illustrated. Here, interface structure 605F includes at least one first lateral guide surface 641F on the lateral side 639F, wherein a lateral gap groove 642F is provided for separation from a corresponding lateral guide rail of the receiving station. In the illustrated example, two opposing first lateral guide surfaces 641F are provided on the opposite side of the lateral gap groove 642F. Both lateral sides 639F may have a first lateral guide surface 641F and a gap groove 642F. In another example, a fastening feature, such as a stop surface 663F, may be provided on one or both lateral sides 639F, near the front of interface structure 605F, for example, bridging the lateral gap groove 642F. Interface structure 605F may include at least one first intermediate guide surface 643F on the distal side 637F, which includes an intermediate gap groove 644F for separation from a corresponding guide rail of the receiving station. In the illustrated example, two opposing first intermediate guide surfaces 643F are provided on opposite sides of the intermediate gap 644F. The gaps 642F and 644F facilitate the passage of the interface structure 605F along the guide rail of the receiving station without it being guided by the guide rail. In one example, the outer walls of the first guide surfaces 641F and 643F, and / or the container 603F and / or the key pen 665F, can provide sufficient guidance for fluidly connecting the liquid interface 615F to the liquid input of the receiving station.

[0287] Figure 48 , Figure 49 , Figure 50 , Figure 50A , Figure 50B ,and Figure 50C The exemplary interface structure can protrude from the container in a manner similar to other exemplary interface structures described in this disclosure, for example, from a first container side, near a second container side that is substantially perpendicular to the first container side, and at a distance from a third side opposite to the second side (opposite to and at a distance from the second side), wherein the container can protrude beyond the edge of the liquid interface in the protrusion direction toward the third side. Furthermore, a liquid channel reservoir connection portion can be provided, for example, extending from the interface structure to connect to a corresponding reservoir. Similar to other examples of this disclosure, the interface components can have similar positions relative to each other and / or the central plane CP.

[0288] Figure 51 The illustration shows a cross-sectional top view of an example of the 605G interface structure, similar to... Figure 50The accompanying drawings show that the interface structure does not include a fixed key. Interface structure 605G includes a liquid channel 617G, which includes a liquid channel interface 615G and a further storage connection portion 629G for connection to a container. A separate key pen structure 665G is provided to allow an operator to connect interface structure 605G to the liquid needle and data connector of the receiving station, while simultaneously actuating or unlocking certain actuators in the receiving station via the separate key pen structure 665G. In this example, key pen structure 665G includes a pair of key pens, which may resemble any of the exemplary key pen pairs illustrated throughout this disclosure. This pair of key pens can be connected via a single key pen structure 665G, for example, via a grip portion 669G, to facilitate manual operation of key pen structure 665G.

[0289] Figure 52 and Figure 53 The illustrations show a front and side view of an exemplary supply device 701A, which has an exemplary fastening feature 757A and an exemplary interface structure 705A that differ from previous examples. A single structure 705A2 includes the interface structure 705A and a container support portion 713A. The single structure 705A2 can be manufactured separately, for example, molded, and later assembled to the remainder of the container 703A. In this example, the support portion 713A provides support for a protrusion 723A of the container 703A, both of which protrude beyond the liquid interface 715A of the interface structure 705A. The interface structure portion 705A protrudes from the bottom of the support portion 713A. The interface structure portion 705A includes components that mate with a receiving station within its first, second, and third dimensions. The receiving station includes: a liquid channel interface 715A, an integrated circuit contact pad, and at least one of a guide feature, a key pen, etc. The first interface dimension d1 (which determines the profile height of the interface structure 705A) extends between the bottom of the support portion 713A and the bottom of the interface structure 705A.

[0290] The supply device 701A includes fastening features 757A that can at least partially secure the supply device 701A to the wall 707A of the receiving station. In one example, the fastening feature 757A includes a pad or element, such as an elastomeric material, for frictionally engaging the supply device with the receiving station. The supply device 701A can be pressed between the walls of the receiving station, wherein the elastomeric material provides sufficient friction and some clamping force between the opposing receiving station walls 707A for securing the supply device 701A in a seated condition. Other fastening features may include latches, hooks, or clips, such as latches, hooks, or clips to the edge of the receiving station. These other fastening features may be disposed in or attached to any supply device component (such as structure 705A2 or interface structure 705A). The exemplary fastening feature 157, which includes a gap 159 and a stop 163 at the lateral side 139, as described in other parts of this disclosure, may be omitted and replaced with these other fastening features or friction-fitting elements, while certain other interface components (such as one or more of a liquid interface 715A, an integrated circuit contact pad, a key pen, a guide feature, etc.) may be included in the interface structure 705A.

[0291] Figure 54 and Figure 55 A schematic side view and a rear view of another exemplary supply device 701B are shown, wherein a portion of a support structure 735B extends across an interface structure 705B. The rear wall 125B and / or side wall 751B of the support structure 735B extend along the interface structure 705B across a protruding distance of the interface structure 705B, i.e., along both the first container dimension D1 and the first interface dimension d1. Lateral guide features may be disposed in the side wall 751B of the support structure 735B, adjacent to the interface structure 705B (not shown). The interface structure 705B may be partially embedded within the support structure 735B.

[0292] Figure 56 and Figure 57The illustration shows perspective views of another exemplary supply device 701C according to various aspects of the present disclosure in a partially disassembled state and an assembled state. In the illustrated example, the support structure 735C may be generally sleeve-shaped to facilitate the sliding of the bag reservoir 733C into the sleeve-shaped support structure 735C. The support structure 735C may include a sleeve-shaped body portion 751C, and corresponding rear walls 725C and front walls 731C for closing respective ends of the sleeve-shaped body portion 751C. The body portion 751C may include an interface structure 705C protruding through an opening, wherein the opening may be located close to the rear portion 725C, and the protruding portion 723C may extend toward the front portion 731C across a large portion of the length of the body portion 751C. In the example, the support structure 735C comprises a plastic material. The rear portion 725C and the body portion 751C may be pre-attached or formed as a single unit. In one example, the interface structure 705C may be attached to or integrated with the rear portion 725C and / or the body portion 751C. The main flow direction DL of the liquid may extend from the liquid interface along the protrusion 723C, which protrudes across and beyond the interface structure 705C.

[0293] Figure 58 and Figure 59 The illustration shows a perspective view of a portion of another exemplary supply device 701D according to a different aspect of this disclosure, wherein in both figures the bag reservoir has been omitted, and... Figure 59 The illustration shows the supply device 701D when inserted into the receiving station 707D. The support structure 735D can be a pallet, such as a cardboard pallet, for supporting the bag. Figure 58 The diagram indicates the protrusion distance PP of the support structure 735C beyond the liquid interface edge 716D, demonstrating how the container protrudes beyond the interface liquid interface edge 716D parallel to the main liquid flow direction DL. The interface structure 705D protrudes from the corresponding side 713D (top side in this example) of the support structure 735D across the range of the first interface dimension d1. The interface structure 705D includes cylindrical elongated lateral guide features 738D on its lateral and distal sides. These lateral guide features guide the interface structure 705D relative to the corresponding guide track 738D1 of the receiving station 707D along the main liquid flow direction DL, while restricting the degrees of freedom in the directions of the first and third interface dimensions to position the liquid outlet interface 715D relative to the liquid inlet of the receiving station.

[0294] Figure 60The illustration shows an exemplary supply device 801 and an interface structure 805, which includes multiple fluid interfaces. Container 803 may include at least one of a support structure 835 and a reservoir 833. Interface structure 805 may include at least one of: a key pen 865, an integrated circuit contact pad 875, a guide feature, etc. Furthermore, in one example, Figure 60 The interface structure 805 includes two liquid channels 817A and 817B for connecting the reservoir 833 to two fluid needles of a single receiving station. Liquid channels 817A and 817B may include a liquid inlet and a liquid outlet, or both the liquid channels and interfaces 817A, 817B, 815A, and 815B may be bidirectional. Liquid channels 817A and 817B include corresponding interfaces 815A and 815B for connecting to corresponding liquid interfaces of the receiving station, such as including seals sealed to the needles. This exemplary supply device 801 facilitates mixing or circulating the liquid in the reservoir 833. Mixing, moving, or recirculating the liquid in the reservoir 833 can be advantageous for pigment inks or other liquids, for example, to prevent particle settling in the carrier liquid.

[0295] The different interface components, other than the liquid channel components 815A, 815B, 817A, and 817B, have functions, locations, and orientations similar to those in other examples of this disclosure. These plurality of liquid interfaces 815A, 815B and channels 817A, 817B can be positioned adjacent to or far from each other, i.e., other interface components may exist between them. For example, one or both of interfaces 815A, 815B and / or channels 817A, 817B can be moved closer to the lateral side 839, wherein, for example, certain interface components (such as an integrated circuit or at least one key pen) can extend between the different interfaces 815A, 815B and / or channels 817A, 817B.

[0296] In other examples, the container of this disclosure may include a liquid reservoir and a vent and / or pressurization mechanism connected to the interior of the reservoir. For example, such a container may include a relatively rigid or hard-shell liquid reservoir. It may be similar to... Figure 60 A secondary fluid interface is provided, which can be connected to an internal pressurization mechanism of the container. This pressurization mechanism can include a bag, an expandable chamber, a flexible membrane, a balloon, or an air-blowing connector, etc., to allow pressurization of the interior of the reservoir. Such a container can be used in relatively small-volume supply devices. The interface structure can protrude from the corresponding side of a relatively rigid container.

[0297] It should also be noted that although this disclosure relates to liquid channels and liquid interfaces, liquid channels and liquid interfaces can be used to transport any fluid, such as liquids containing gas.

[0298] In various examples disclosed herein, integrated circuits and corresponding contact pads are discussed. Such integrated circuits may include data storage devices and certain processor logic. The integrated circuit can be used as a microcontroller, such as a security microcontroller. Data stored on the storage device may include at least one of the following characteristics of the liquid: data indicating the remaining liquid volume, product ID, digital signature, a base key for calculating a session key for authenticated data communication, color change data, etc. Furthermore, in addition to the data storage device and processor logic, dedicated challenge response logic may be set in the integrated circuit. The supply device can be authenticated by the printer controller issuing certain challenges that the integrated circuit needs to respond to. The integrated circuit can be configured to return at least one of the following for verification by the printer controller: message authentication code, session key, session key identifier, and digital signature data. In some examples, the warranty, operating conditions, and / or service conditions of the printer to which the supply device is connected may depend on the printer controller's positive authentication of the integrated circuit. Failure to establish positive authentication may indicate the use of an unknown or unauthorized supply source, which may increase the risk of damage to the printer or reduced print quality output. In cases where the certification of an integrated circuit cannot be confirmed, the printer controller can help, for example, switch to a safe or default printing mode with reduced but safer printer operating conditions, and / or facilitate modified warranty and / or service terms.

[0299] In this disclosure, references to front, rear, top, bottom, side, lateral side, height, width, and length of components should, in principle, be interpreted as illustrative purposes only, as components of the supply device can be oriented in any suitable direction in three-dimensional space. For example, a retractable liquid reservoir can be emptied in any orientation, wherein the liquid inlet and the main liquid flow direction can correspondingly point in any direction, such as upward, downward, or sideways, and the reservoir can correspondingly be suspended, extended, standing, tilted, or pointed in any direction. The supply device and interface structure of this disclosure can facilitate connection to different types of receiving stations or printers in any orientation.

[0300] While several examples are shown in this disclosure in which the container and interface structure are and / or include separately manufactured parts, such as a container containing cardboard boxes and bags and an interface structure containing molded components, in other examples the container and interface structure may be manufactured at least partially together (e.g., molded), or certain parts of the container may be molded together with certain parts of the interface structure.

[0301] The first, second, and third dimensions of the interface structure relate to the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis, as well as the extent to which the interface structure extends. As explained and illustrated, certain exemplary portions of the interface structure may extend beyond the first, second, and third interface dimensions, such as the liquid channel reservoir connection portion or certain protruding support flanges. Therefore, interface dimensions d1, d2, and d3 may refer to protruding portions of the interface structure within which some or all of the interface components mating with the receiving station extend. For example, the edge of the front push region and the distal side supporting the integrated circuit may extend within and / or define the first interface dimension d1. For example, the outer lateral sides of the interface structure may define the third interface dimension, and in the absence of these lateral sides, at least the opposite key pen may extend within the third interface dimension d3. The front liquid interface edge and the rear portion of the interface structure may define the second interface dimension d2.

[0302] In this disclosure, the terms axis and direction are used. An axis refers to an imaginary reference line with a specific orientation in three-dimensional space. A direction refers to a general route or orientation.

[0303] In one example, the liquid primarily flows from the container reservoir to the receiving station, and therefore, in this disclosure, the corresponding flow direction portions can be referred to as "upstream" and "downstream" along the main liquid flow direction. However, bidirectional flow can exist in the channel between the container and the liquid interface, where, during certain time periods, the liquid can flow from the receiving station toward the container. Furthermore, at a given point in time, two liquid channels with opposite flow directions can exist. It should be understood that the definitions of downstream and upstream refer to the main flow direction between the container and the receiving station used for printing. In an example where two fluid needles exist, each with an opposite flow direction at a given point in time to recirculate ink in the container, two similar liquid channels and interfaces can be provided in the supply device. Each liquid channel can be adapted to facilitate flow in either direction within the channel and across the interface. Moreover, the main flow direction will be determined by the overall positive increment of the liquid that needs to flow toward the receiving station to supply the liquid for printing.

[0304] In a receiving station with two protruding pins connected to a single supply device to recirculate or mix the liquid in the supply device, at a given point in time, one pin of the receiving station can be used as an input and the other as an output. Accordingly, the interface structure may include two liquid interfaces and two liquid channels, one liquid interface serving as an input and the other as an output, but bidirectional flow through each pin and interface is possible. Any second pin and its corresponding second liquid interface may have a design and configuration similar to the first pin and liquid interface, as per the scope of this disclosure, wherein the first and second pins / interfaces may extend in parallel to facilitate insertion and removal of the supply device relative to the receiving station. If two liquid channels and interfaces are used, other interface components similar to the front or forward-pushing area of ​​the interface can be similarly replicated or scaled up.

[0305] Similar to the secondary liquid needle, in other examples included in this disclosure, additional fluid needles may be present to deliver gas to the supply device, for example, to deliver gas to the space between the reservoir and the support structure, or to deliver gas to a secondary gas reservoir within the main liquid reservoir. Such additional fluid or gas interfaces can facilitate pressurization, maintenance, or other functions. In these examples, gas interfaces may be located alongside or between the disclosed interface components.

[0306] The axis along which the main liquid flow direction extends can be determined by the inner wall of the liquid channel needle receiving portion and / or the internal sealing channel, for example, by the central axis of these liquid channel components. It should be understood that the liquid may not flow in a perfectly straight line, and the walls of the internal liquid guide channel need not have a perfectly circular or straight shape, where in some cases it may be difficult to determine the precise liquid flow axis. Those skilled in the art should understand that the liquid flow direction is intended to reflect the overall flow direction from the supply device to the printer receiving station, for example, along the needle axis through the inserted needle. Furthermore, the needle insertion direction can be determined by the inner wall of the liquid channel needle receiving portion and / or the internal sealing channel, for example, by the central axis of these liquid channel components, to allow the needle to be inserted. The main liquid flow direction is parallel to and opposite to the needle insertion direction.

[0307] In this disclosure, certain features are identified by designations such as "first," "second," "third," etc., to identify aspects or features that have similar names or purposes but differ. For example, this disclosure relates to planes, guide features, recesses, keys, and other groups of features, wherein individual features within these groups are identified by designations such as "first," "second," etc. It should be understood that this type of designation is intended to distinguish features that have similar aspects or purposes, but throughout the claims and specification, depending on the context, the same feature may use different designations. For example, depending on the context, a sixth or seventh plane in the specification may be referred to as a first or second, or an intermediate or offset plane, in a dependent claim or elsewhere in the specification.

[0308] Key pen lengths shorter or longer than those indicated in this disclosure (e.g., shorter than 10 mm or longer than 23 mm) can be implemented to facilitate actuation. Furthermore, color can be used to distinguish between key pens and non-distinguishing master key pens, wherein either of these key pens can extend beyond the edge of the liquid interface along the main flow direction, for example, beyond the edge of the liquid interface by more than 5 mm or more than 10 mm.

[0309] The supply source disclosed herein can be inserted in a relatively user-friendly manner when fully loaded and relatively heavy, and then removed when substantially depleted and relatively light. During installation, a key pen can actuate a receiver drive mechanism that can be calibrated to accommodate the weight difference between insertion and ejection. For example, a relatively small push may be sufficient to insert a loaded, relatively heavy supply unit, while after depletion, it prevents an empty, relatively light supply unit from docking with the receiver. The interface structure facilitates guided and relatively precise alignment of a loaded, relatively heavy supply unit with the liquid receiving needle, requiring relatively little operator effort and experience.

[0310] Certain aspects of this disclosure may contribute to the use of materials and components that reduce potential environmental impact. Certain aspects of this disclosure also contribute to the space and footprint of the supply unit and associated printer. For example, the supply unit may have a relatively small aspect ratio. For example, the interface structure may have a relatively small profile protrusion height, as defined by its first dimension.

[0311] Other aspects disclosed herein can contribute to enhancing the modularity of the supply unit components. For example, the interface structure can be used for a wide variety of supply volumes for different printer platforms. In one example, a single container or reservoir can be used for multiple volume supply units through partial filling. For example, a filled, rack-stored supply unit may include a reservoir bag with a capacity of 1L or greater, wherein the same reservoir bag can be used to hold different supply unit products, such as 500ml, 700ml, or 1L of printing liquid.

[0312] Furthermore, the interface structure can be used to connect to a relatively diverse range of different printing system platforms. Although prior to the date of this disclosure, similarly diverse printing system platforms were associated with a wide variety of different supply platforms (e.g., more than three or four different supply platforms of different designs), now such diverse printing system platforms can use a single interface structure and supply device platform.

[0313] The supply device, interface structure, and components disclosed herein can be applied to fields beyond printing, such as any type of liquid dispensing system and / or liquid circulation loop. For example, the printing liquid supply source can contain liquids other than printing liquids, such as liquids to be contained in an impermeable reservoir to maintain certain properties over time. Applications in these other fields can include, for example, medical, pharmaceutical, or forensic applications, or food or beverage applications. Therefore, when referring to printing liquid in the specification and claims, any fluid or liquid can be used instead. Furthermore, the printing system or printing platform can be replaced by any fluid or liquid manipulation platform.

[0314] As noted at the outset of this specification, the examples shown in the accompanying drawings and described above are illustrative but not limiting of the invention. Other examples not illustrated in this disclosure can be derived or combined by deducing or combining different disclosed and undisclosed features. The foregoing description should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention, which is defined by the appended claims.

[0315] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a printing liquid supply device for supplying liquid to a liquid needle at a receiving station, the printing liquid supply device comprising: (i) a liquid container including at least partially retractable liquid reservoir for containing at least 90 ml of printing liquid, comprising reservoir wall material adapted to inhibit fluid transfer, and (ii) an interface structure on a side of the container including a rigid molded structure adapted to facilitate fluid connection with a receiving station. The interface structure includes: (i) a liquid channel including a reservoir connection portion fluidly connected to the reservoir and a needle receiving portion allowing liquid to flow from the reservoir to the needle; (ii) a liquid interface of the liquid channel, the liquid interface being adjacent to the needle receiving portion and spaced apart from the reservoir connection portion, the interface including a seal for receiving a liquid needle, wherein the liquid channel needle receiving portion and / or the seal defines a needle insertion direction; (iii) a front wall and / or edge adjacent to the liquid interface including a push area disposed between the liquid interface and the container; (iv) at least one key pen base and a key pen extending from the base in a direction parallel to and opposite to the needle insertion direction, the key pen being in the liquid channel needle receiving portion. The key pen extends adjacent to and generally parallel to the base, having a corresponding actuating surface area at a distance of at least 10 mm from the base for passing through the key slot and actuating the actuator of the receiving station; (v) and a contact pad array adjacent to the liquid channel needle receiving portion, wherein the contact surface of the contact pad faces the container, allowing the data connector to contact the contact pad between the container and the contact pad array, wherein the contact pad array is arranged along a line extending in a transverse direction perpendicular to the needle insertion direction, and the key pen, the liquid channel needle receiving portion, and the liquid interface intersect a first virtual reference plane, which is parallel to and at a distance from a second virtual reference plane intersecting the contact pad array.

[0316] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a sub-assembly for assembling a printer liquid supply container, the kit including a printer liquid reservoir and a support structure to form the printer liquid supply container, the container having a first dimension, a second dimension, and a third dimension, wherein the support structure at least partially surrounds and supports the reservoir and provides rigidity to the container, at least in a folded and assembled condition, the reservoir including a bag for containing printer liquid, the bag being at least partially flexible to contract when printer liquid is withdrawn from the reservoir, the bag being configured to inhibit fluid exchange. For example, the bag includes a neck that is relatively narrow relative to the bag in a filled state, the neck having an opening for discharging printer liquid from the bag. For example, in a filled and assembled state, starting from the neck, at least approximately two-thirds of the bag protrudes within a protrusion of the support structure in a direction parallel to the second dimension. The support structure is adapted to include, in a folded state, a generally vertical wall defining the first dimension, the second dimension, and the third dimension, wherein the first dimension and the second dimension are larger than the third dimension. The first wall defining the second dimension and the third dimension includes an opening near the neck when the reservoir is positioned in the support structure to allow connection of another fluid structure to the neck, and the opening is configured adjacent to another wall adjacent to the first wall, opposite to the protrusion, the other wall being parallel to the first dimension and the third dimension.

[0317] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to intermediate components, such as a kit of components, for providing a liquid supply device. Yet another aspect of this disclosure relates to an interface structure for a supply device.

Claims

1. A printing liquid supply device for supplying liquid to a liquid needle at a receiving station, the printing liquid supply device comprising: A printing liquid supply container includes a liquid reservoir that is at least partially collapsible, the liquid reservoir being used to hold at least 90 ml of printing liquid, and the liquid reservoir comprising a reservoir wall material suitable for inhibiting fluid transfer. An interface structure, located on one side of the printing liquid supply container, includes: A rigid molding structure adapted to facilitate fluid connection with the receiving station; A liquid channel, comprising a reservoir connection portion and a liquid channel needle receiving portion, the reservoir connection portion being fluidly connected to the reservoir, and the liquid channel needle receiving portion being used to allow liquid to flow from the reservoir to the needle; The liquid interface of the liquid channel is adjacent to the liquid channel needle receiving portion and is a certain distance away from the reservoir connection portion. The interface includes a seal for receiving a liquid needle, wherein the liquid channel needle receiving portion and / or the seal defines the needle insertion direction. Adjacent to the front wall and / or edge of the liquid interface, the front wall and / or edge includes a push area disposed between the liquid interface and the printing liquid supply container; A key pen and at least one key pen base, the key pen extending from the base in a direction parallel and opposite to the needle insertion direction, the key pen extending adjacent to and substantially parallel to the liquid channel needle receiving portion, the key pen having a corresponding actuating surface area at a distance of at least 10 mm from the base for passing through a key slot and actuating the actuator of the receiving station; and A contact pad array is provided adjacent to the liquid channel needle receiving portion, wherein the contact surface of the contact pads faces the printing liquid supply container, such that a data connector can contact the contact pads between the printing liquid supply container and the contact pad array. The contact pad array is arranged along a line extending in a transverse direction perpendicular to the needle insertion direction, and The key pen, the liquid channel needle receiving portion, and the liquid interface intersect with a first virtual reference plane, the first virtual reference plane being parallel to a second virtual reference plane and at a certain distance from the second virtual reference plane, the second virtual reference plane intersecting with the contact pad array, wherein the interface structure has a first interface size measured along a direction protruding outward relative to the outer wall of the container, the container has a first container size measured along the protruding direction, and wherein the first interface size is less than half of the first container size.

2. The printing liquid supply device of claim 1, comprising a pair of protruding key pens, the pair of protruding key pens extending on opposite sides of the liquid channel needle receiving portion, beside the liquid channel needle receiving portion, and parallel to the liquid channel needle receiving portion.

3. The printing liquid supply device as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, If measured along the needle insertion direction, the plane of the actuation surface region extends at a location less than approximately 5 mm to 0 mm from the edge of the liquid interface and / or the plane of the forward push region, or The plane of the actuated surface region extends beyond the plane.

4. The printing liquid supply device as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The key pen and the liquid channel needle receiving portion extend to the lateral side of the contact pad array to facilitate the data connector passing between the liquid channel needle receiving portion and the key pen.

5. The printing liquid supply device as claimed in claim 4, comprising a second key pen on the opposite lateral side of the liquid channel needle receiving portion, wherein, The distance between the key pen and the liquid channel needle receiving portion is greater than the distance between the second key pen and the liquid channel needle receiving portion.

6. The printing liquid supply device as claimed in claim 5, wherein, The interface structure includes a recess on each lateral side, within which the key pen extends. The recess includes a smaller recess and a larger recess, and the contact pad array is arranged in the larger recess.

7. The printing liquid supply device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein, A gap and a stop surface are provided on the lateral side of the interface structure. The stop surface extends at the front of the gap, next to the key pen, and The first virtual reference plane intersects with the stop surface.

8. The printing liquid supply device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, comprising a gap in the transverse sidewall at the transverse side of the interface structure, the gap being a groove or a through hole.

9. The printing liquid supply device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, comprising a support structure, said support structure including at least one wall, The support structure is adapted to support and at least partially surround the storage device. The support structure is adapted to support the interface structure, and The support structure includes an opening in one wall to facilitate the flow of liquid from the reservoir to the interface structure.

10. The printing liquid supply device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The interface structure protrudes from the printing liquid supply container.

11. The printing liquid supply device as claimed in claim 10, wherein, When viewed along the protruding direction of the printing liquid supply container from the interface structure, the liquid channel needle receiving portion, the liquid interface, the lateral side, the fastening feature, the key pen, and the contact pad all extend within the area defined by the outline of the printing liquid supply container.

12. The printing liquid supply device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The interface structure includes at least one elongated, straight guide surface and / or a gap groove parallel to the needle insertion direction to facilitate insertion of the device into the receiving station relative to the liquid needle.

13. The printing liquid supply device as claimed in claim 12, wherein, The at least one guide surface or gap groove is disposed on the lateral side and intersects with the first virtual reference plane.

14. The printing liquid supply device as claimed in claim 13, wherein, The at least one guide surface or gap groove is disposed on the distal side and intersects with the first virtual reference plane.

15. The printing liquid supply device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The interface structure includes a groove at the distal sidewall, the groove being along the liquid channel needle receiving portion, and the groove being on the side of the liquid channel portion opposite to the contact pad array.

16. The printing liquid supply device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The liquid interface and the contact pad array extend on opposite sides of a central virtual reference plane, which is parallel to the needle insertion direction and perpendicular to the first and second virtual reference planes.

17. The printing liquid supply device as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The liquid channel needle receiving portion and the liquid channel reservoir connecting portion extend at a certain angle to each other, and The reservoir connection portion of the liquid channel intersects with a third virtual reference plane, which is parallel to the first virtual reference plane, a certain distance from the liquid channel needle receiving portion, and on the other side of the first virtual reference plane relative to the second virtual reference plane.

18. The printing liquid supply device as claimed in claim 17, wherein, The liquid channel needle receiving portion and the liquid channel reservoir connecting portion are offset from each other in a lateral direction perpendicular to the needle insertion direction.

19. The printing liquid supply device as claimed in claim 3, wherein, The forward pushing area terminates at a certain distance from the liquid interface, the distance being less than the inner diameter of the interface edge and / or less than the outer diameter of the seal placed in the liquid interface.

20. A sub-assembly for assembling a printing liquid supply container of a printing liquid supply device as described in any one of claims 1 to 19, the sub-assembly comprising a printing liquid reservoir and a support structure to form the printing liquid supply container. The printed liquid supply container has a first size, a second size, and a third size. At least when folded and installed, the support structure serves to at least partially surround and support the reservoir, and to provide rigidity for the printing liquid supply container. The storage includes: A bag for containing printing liquid, the bag being at least partially flexible to contract upon removal of the printing liquid reservoir from the reservoir, the bag being configured to inhibit fluid exchange, and The neck, which is relatively narrower than the bag in its filled state, has an opening for discharging printing liquid from the bag. in, In the filled and assembled state, starting from the neck, at least approximately two-thirds of the bag protrudes within the protruding portion of the support structure in a direction parallel to the second dimension. The support structure is adapted, in a folded state, to include a generally vertical wall defining a first dimension, a second dimension, and a third dimension, the first and second dimensions being larger than the third dimension, wherein, when the reservoir is positioned in the support structure, the first wall defining the second and third dimensions includes an opening adjacent to the neck of the reservoir to allow connection of another fluid structure to the neck, and The opening is positioned adjacent to another wall, which is adjacent to the first wall in contrast to the protrusion, and the other wall is parallel to the first dimension and the third dimension.

21. The sub-component of claim 20, wherein, At least in the filled state of the bag within the support structure, the length of the bag along the second dimension is greater than the width of the bag along the third dimension.

22. The sub-assembly of claim 20 or 21, further comprising a mechanical connection structure adapted to extend at least partially between the support structure and the reservoir, within, on, or along the other wall adjacent to the first wall of the support structure, to reinforce the first wall when pushed against it.

23. The sub-assembly of claim 20 or 21, comprising a mechanical connection structure extending along the first wall and the opening, at least partially between the storage unit and the support structure.

24. The sub-component of claim 23, wherein, The mechanical connection structure extends at least partially around the neck of the storage unit.

25. The sub-component of claim 24, wherein, At least when viewed along the third dimension, the mechanical connection structure is L-shaped.

26. The sub-component of claim 22, wherein, The mechanical connection structure is adapted to connect to the support structure and the storage device.

27. The sub-component of claim 22, wherein, The mechanical connection structure connects the storage device to the support structure.

28. The sub-component of claim 22, wherein, The mechanical connection structure includes at least one wedge, which is adapted to clamp the neck and the support structure along the flange of the neck.

29. The sub-component as claimed in claim 20 or 21, wherein, The support structure comprises cardboard boxes or other cellulose-based materials and is cubic in shape, and the reservoir comprises flexible plastic to inhibit the transfer of liquids, vapors and air.

30. The sub-component as claimed in claim 20 or 21, wherein, The bag is relatively flat when empty, and includes two opposing membranes or membrane layers folded or connected adjacent to the outer edge of the bag, wherein the neck is connected to the bag off-center from the width and / or length of the bag.

31. The sub-component of claim 30, wherein, The neck is connected to one of the membranes or membrane layers.

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