Powder cartridges and electronic imaging equipment

Abstract

The present invention provides a powder cartridge and an electronic imaging device, and relates to the field of image forming technology. The powder cartridge comprises a cartridge body, a powder outlet structure, and a connecting pipe; the cartridge body has a first end, and the cartridge body is used to store developer; the powder outlet structure is installed at the first end of the cartridge body, and the powder outlet structure has a powder outlet, and the powder outlet is used to discharge the developer in the cartridge body; the connecting pipe is installed on the powder outlet structure, and when the powder cartridge is installed on a developer replenishing device of the electronic imaging device, a block assembly of the developer replenishing device is opened through the connecting pipe, one end of the connecting pipe abuts against the powder outlet, and the other end of the connecting pipe abuts against a receiving port of the developer replenishing device, and the connecting pipe connects the powder outlet of the powder outlet structure and the receiving port of the developer replenishing device, and since the block assembly is restricted from rotating by the connecting pipe, it can be avoided that the block assembly damages the seal in the powder outlet due to vibration, thereby avoiding the problem of developer scattering.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of image forming, and in particular to a powder cartridge and an electronic imaging device. Background Art

[0002] Electronic imaging equipment is a device that forms images on recording materials through electrophotographic imaging processing technology, such as: electronic photographic copiers, laser printers, electronic photographic printers, fax machines, word processors, etc. The inside of the electronic imaging equipment can be detachably installed with a powder cartridge for supplying developer. As the developer is continuously involved in electronic imaging, the developer in the powder cartridge is gradually consumed. At this time, the user needs to replace the powder cartridge in time or inject new developer into the powder cartridge, which makes the powder cartridge one of the frequently replaced consumable parts in electronic imaging equipment. The inside of the electronic imaging equipment is provided with a developer replenishing device for receiving the developer, and the powder cartridge is detachably mounted on the developer replenishing device. Each installation and removal operation of the powder cartridge in the developer replenishing device involves the connection and disconnection of the powder outlet of the powder cartridge with the receiving port of the developer replenishing device.

[0003] In related technologies, such as Figure 1 As shown, Figure 1 An exploded view of a powder cartridge of the prior art. Figure 1 The direction of arrow A is the installation direction of the powder cartridge, and the direction of arrow B is the removal direction of the powder cartridge. Figure 1 The powder cartridge includes a cartridge body 10 for accommodating developer and a powder outlet structure 20, wherein the powder outlet structure 20 includes a powder outlet shell 21 and a slide plate 22, wherein the powder outlet shell 21 is mounted on the cartridge body 10, and the powder outlet shell 21 includes an upper flange portion 211 and a lower flange portion 212, and the slide plate 22 is slidably disposed on the lower flange portion 212.

[0004] like Figure 2a to Figure 2c As shown, Figure 2a It is a partial structural schematic diagram of a developer replenishing device;

[0005] Figure 2b is a partial cross-sectional view of a developer replenishing device; Figure 2c The developer replenishing device 100 at least includes a developer receiving part, which includes a receiving port 1011, a coupling member 102, a block assembly 103 and a third elastic member 104. The block assembly 103 is used to open and close the receiving port 1011. The coupling member 102 is used to drive the developer receiving part to rise or fall, so that the receiving port 1011 and the block assembly 103 are in an open state or a closed state. The third elastic member 104 is used to make the coupling member 102 rise by overcoming the elastic force of the third elastic member 104 or fall under the elastic force of the third elastic member 104.

[0006] like Figure 3a to Figure 3c As shown, Figure 3a It is a schematic diagram of the structure of a powder outlet shell of a powder outlet structure of a powder cartridge in the prior art; Figure 3b for Figure 3a Schematic diagram of the initial contact between the guide rail structure of the powder outlet shell and the coupling member of the developer replenishing device Schematic diagram of the final contact between the guide rail structure of the powder outlet shell and the coupling member of the developer replenishing device. A guide rail structure for coupling with the coupling member 102 in the developer replenishing device 100 is provided on the lower flange portion 212 of the powder outlet structure 20, and the guide rail structure includes a first part 2121a and a second part 2121b. When the powder cartridge is installed along the direction of arrow A, the first part 2121a of the guide rail structure guides the coupling member 102 to rise, gradually opening the block assembly 103 and the receiving port 1011, and the coupling member 102 continues to move on the second part 2121b until the powder outlet in the powder cartridge is in a fully open position, so that the powder outlet and the receiving port 1011 form a through developer discharge channel. It should be noted that a first seal (not shown in the figure) is provided in the powder outlet and a second seal 105 is provided in the receiving port.

[0007] However, there is a problem of developer scattering during the toner cartridge installation process. Summary of the invention

[0008] The invention provides a powder cartridge and an electronic imaging device to solve the problem of developer scattering during the installation of the powder cartridge.

[0009] In one aspect, the present invention provides a powder cartridge, comprising a cartridge body, a powder discharging structure and a connecting pipe;

[0010] The barrel body has a first end, and the barrel body is used to store developer;

[0011] The powder outlet structure is installed at the first end of the barrel body, and the powder outlet structure has a powder outlet, and the powder outlet is used to discharge the developer in the barrel body;

[0012] The connecting pipe is installed on the powder outlet structure. The connecting pipe is installed on the powder outlet structure. The connecting pipe is used to open the block assembly of the developer replenishing device when the powder cartridge is installed on the developer replenishing device of the electronic imaging device, and to connect the powder outlet port of the powder outlet structure and the receiving port of the developer replenishing device.

[0013] Optionally, the powder outlet structure comprises a powder outlet shell and a slide plate, the powder outlet shell is mounted on the first end of the barrel body, the slide plate is slidably mounted on the powder outlet shell, the powder outlet is arranged on the powder outlet shell, and the slide plate is used to open or close the powder outlet;

[0014] The slide plate is provided with a limiting portion, the limiting portion is connected to the connecting pipe, and the limiting portion is used to enable the connecting pipe to move along the limiting portion.

[0015] Optionally, the connecting pipeline includes a supporting member, a connecting member and a connecting pipe, the supporting member is slidably arranged on the limiting portion, the connecting member is connected to the supporting member, the connecting pipe is arranged on the connecting member, and the connecting pipe has a connecting inlet and a connecting outlet;

[0016] One end of the connecting tube is used to be engaged in the powder outlet when the connecting pipe moves to the second position, and the other end of the connecting tube is used to abut against the receiving tube of the developer replenishing device when the connecting pipe moves to the second position.

[0017] Optionally, the support member includes a first support plate and a second support plate, the connecting member is connected between the first support plate and the second support plate, the first support plate is provided with a first limiting hole, the second support plate is provided with a second limiting hole, the limiting portion includes a first limiting rod and a second limiting rod, the first limiting hole of the first support plate is slidably disposed on the first limiting rod, and the second limiting hole of the second support plate is slidably disposed on the second limiting rod;

[0018] A first elastic member is provided on the first limiting rod, and a second elastic member is provided on the second limiting rod. One end of the first elastic member abuts against the first supporting plate, and the other end of the first elastic member abuts against the sliding plate. One end of the second elastic member abuts against the second supporting plate, and the other end of the second elastic member abuts against the sliding plate.

[0019] Optionally, the powder outlet structure also includes a movable connecting rod, which includes a rotating end and a free end, and the rotating end is rotatably mounted on the powder outlet shell; the connecting pipe also includes a fixed connecting rod, which is fixedly connected to the support member, and the fixed connecting rod is slidably disposed on the movable connecting rod, and the free end is used to open the block assembly under the drive of the fixed connecting rod.

[0020] Optionally, the fixed link is fixed under the first support plate, the fixed link is provided with a limiting protrusion, the movable link is provided with a sliding groove and a rotating hole, the rotating hole is located at the rotating end, the sliding groove is located between the rotating end and the free end, and the limiting protrusion is slidably arranged in the sliding groove.

[0021] Optionally, the block assembly includes a first block and a second block, the first block has a first blocking surface and a first linkage groove, the second block has a second blocking surface and a second linkage groove, and a linkage plate is provided on the outer wall of the receiving port, and the linkage plate is slidably arranged in the first linkage groove and the second linkage groove;

[0022] The free end is used to push the first stopper when the connecting pipe opens the stopper assembly.

[0023] Optionally, the connecting pipe further comprises a reinforcing member, the reinforcing member is fixedly connected to the connecting member and the connecting pipe respectively, and the reinforcing member is used to enhance the structural strength of the connecting pipe;

[0024] The support member and the reinforcement member are provided with a first inclined portion, the powder outlet shell includes an upper flange portion and a lower flange portion, the lower flange portion is fixed below the upper flange portion, and the lower flange portion is provided with a second inclined portion, the second inclined portion can cooperate with the first inclined portion, and the second inclined portion is used to make the connecting pipe move along the limiting portion.

[0025] Optionally, the powder outlet is arranged on the lower flange portion, and the powder outlet is connected to the upper flange portion. The lower flange portion is also provided with a slide groove and a first elastic protrusion. The slide plate is also provided with a sealing surface, a second elastic protrusion and a locking protrusion. The second elastic protrusion is slid in the slide groove. When the locking protrusion is elastically engaged with the first elastic protrusion, the sealing surface is used to seal the air outlet.

[0026] In another aspect, the present invention further provides an electronic imaging device, comprising: a developer replenishing device and the toner cartridge as described above;

[0027] The powder cartridge is detachably mounted on the developer replenishing device.

[0028] The present invention provides a powder cartridge and an electronic imaging device. When the powder cartridge is installed on a developer replenishing device of the electronic imaging device, a block assembly of the developer replenishing device is opened through a connecting pipe, one end of the connecting pipe abuts against a powder outlet, and the other end of the connecting pipe abuts against a receiving port of the developer replenishing device. The connecting pipe connects the powder outlet of a powder outlet structure and the receiving port of the developer replenishing device. Since the powder outlet and the receiving port are separated by the connecting pipe, the block assembly will not contact the powder outlet, thereby preventing the block assembly from damaging a first seal in the powder outlet due to vibration, thereby preventing the developer from scattering. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without paying creative labor.

[0030] Figure 1 An exploded view of a powder cartridge of the prior art;

[0031] Figure 2a It is a partial structural schematic diagram of a developer replenishing device;

[0032] Figure 2b is a partial cross-sectional view of a developer replenishing device;

[0033] Figure 2c is a perspective view of a developer receiving portion;

[0034] Figure 2d for Figure 2a A schematic diagram of a structure in which a portion of a developer replenishing device is removed;

[0035] Figure 3a It is a schematic diagram of the structure of a powder outlet shell of a powder outlet structure of a powder cartridge in the prior art;

[0036] Figure 3b for Figure 3a A schematic diagram of the initial contact between the guide rail structure of the powder discharge shell and the engaging member of the developer replenishing device;

[0037] Figure 3c for Figure 3a A schematic diagram of the final contact between the guide rail structure of the powder discharge shell and the engaging member of the developer replenishing device;

[0038] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of a powder cartridge provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of the powder barrel at the location of the powder discharge structure;

[0040] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of the powder discharging structure and the connecting pipeline provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 7 for Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the explosion structure of the powder discharging structure and the connecting pipeline;

[0042] Figure 8 for Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the structure of a powder outlet shell of a powder outlet structure;

[0043] Fig. 9 for Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the structure of the movable connecting rod in FIG.

[0044] Fig.10 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of the powder cartridge in the first position when the stopper assembly is ready to be opened;

[0045] Fig.11 for Fig.10A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the powder cartridge in the embodiment of the present invention when the stopper assembly is in the first position and ready to be opened;

[0046] Fig.12 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure when the powder cartridge in the embodiment opens the stopper assembly at the second position;

[0047] Fig.13 for Fig.12 A schematic structural diagram of another viewing angle when the powder cartridge in the second position opens the stopper assembly;

[0048] Fig.14 for Fig.12 A schematic cross-sectional view of the powder cartridge in the embodiment of the present invention when the stopper assembly is opened at the second position;

[0049] Fig.15 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure when the connecting pipe of the powder cartridge in the embodiment opens the stopper assembly at the second position;

[0050] Fig.16 A structural schematic diagram of the position of the movable connecting rod when the stopper assembly is not opened in the connecting pipe provided by the embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Fig.17 A structural schematic diagram of the position of the movable connecting rod when the connecting pipe opens the stopper assembly provided by an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Description of reference numerals:

[0053] 10-cartridge body; 11-powder cartridge body; 111-first end; 112-second end; 12-stirring frame; 113-gear ring;

[0054] 20-powder discharging structure; 201-powder discharging port; 21-powder discharging shell; 211-upper flange; 2121a-first part; 2121b-second part; 212-lower flange; 2121-second inclined part; 2122-slide; 2123-first elastic protrusion; 2124-plane part; 22-slide plate; 2211-first limiting rod; 2212-second limiting rod; 222-sealing surface; 223-second elastic protrusion; 224-locking protrusion; 23-first elastic member; 24-second elastic member; 25-movable connecting rod; 2501-sliding groove; 2502-rotation hole; 251-rotation end; 252-free end;

[0055] 30-connecting pipe; 301-first inclined portion 3; 311-first support plate; 3111-first limiting hole; 3121-second limiting hole; 312-second support plate; 32-connecting piece; 33-connecting pipe; 331-connecting inlet; 332-connecting outlet; 34-fixing connecting rod; 341-limiting protrusion; 35-reinforcement piece;

[0056] 40-pump unit; 50-drive conversion unit; 60-housing;

[0057] 100-developer replenishing device; 101-receiving tube; 1011-receiving port; 102-coupling member; 103-block assembly; 104-third elastic member; 105-second sealing member; 106-linking plate; 107-receiving shell; 1031-first block; 1031a-first shielding surface; 1031b-first linkage groove; 1032-second block; 1032a-second shielding surface; 1032b-second linkage groove. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058] In order to make the purpose, technical solution and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solution in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without creative work are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0059] It should be noted that the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of the indicated technical features. Therefore, the features defined as "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of the features. In the description of the present invention, the meaning of "plurality" is at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise clearly and specifically defined.

[0060] In the present invention, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "installation", "connection", "fixation" and the like should be understood in a broad sense, for example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral one; it can be a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or communication with each other; it can be a direct connection, or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, it can be the internal connection of two elements or the interaction relationship between two elements, unless otherwise clearly defined. For ordinary technicians in this field, the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0061] In the present invention, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, a first feature being "above" or "below" a second feature may mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or the first and second features are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. Moreover, a first feature being "above", "above" or "above" a second feature may mean that the first feature is directly above or obliquely above the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is higher in level than the second feature. A first feature being "below", "below" or "below" a second feature may mean that the first feature is directly below or obliquely below the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is lower in level than the second feature.

[0062] In the above description, the description with reference to the terms "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "example", "specific example", or "some examples" etc. means that the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described in conjunction with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the schematic representations of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described may be combined in any one or more embodiments or examples in a suitable manner. In addition, those skilled in the art may combine and combine the different embodiments or examples described in this specification and the features of the different embodiments or examples, without contradiction.

[0063] In related technologies, such as Figure 2a and Figure 2dAs shown, the block assembly 103 of the developer replenishing device 100 includes a first block 1031 and a second block 1032, the first block 1031 has a first shielding surface 1031a and a first linkage groove 1031b, the second block 1032 has a second shielding surface 1032a and a second linkage groove 1032b, the receiving port 1011 is arranged on the receiving tube 101, and a linkage plate 106 is arranged on the outer wall of the receiving tube 101, the linkage plate 106 is slidably arranged in the first linkage groove 1031b and the second linkage groove 1032b, the first block 1031 and the second block 1032 are hinged on the receiving shell 107 of the developer replenishing device 100, and the block assembly 103 and the receiving shell 107 do not rise or fall with the coupling 102. When the powder cartridge is installed along the direction of arrow A, the first part 2121a of the guide rail structure guides the coupling 102 to rise, and the coupling 102 drives the receiving cartridge 101 to rise. Since the block assembly 103 does not rise with the coupling 102, during the rising process of the receiving cartridge 101, the first block 1031 and the second block 1032 can be rotated and opened through the linkage plate 106, and the receiving port 1011 is opened, and then the receiving cartridge 101 continues to move on the second part 2121b until the powder outlet in the powder cartridge is in a fully opened position. However, during the installation of the powder cartridge, during the movement of the coupling 102 guided by the second part 2121b of the guide rail structure, the receiving port 1011 is already fully opened. When the receiving port 1011 is close to the powder outlet, the vibration of the block assembly may cause the first seal in the powder outlet to elastically deform. When the second seal 105 of the receiving port 1011 abuts against the first seal of the powder outlet, the developer can be dispersed from the first seal in the powder outlet.

[0064] In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the present invention provides a powder cartridge and an electronic imaging device. When the powder cartridge is installed on the developer replenishing device of the electronic imaging device, the block assembly of the developer replenishing device is opened through a connecting pipe, one end of the connecting pipe abuts against the powder outlet, and the other end of the connecting pipe abuts against the receiving port of the developer replenishing device. The connecting pipe connects the powder outlet of the powder outlet structure and the receiving port of the developer replenishing device. Since the powder outlet and the receiving port are separated by the connecting pipe, the block assembly will not contact the powder outlet, thereby preventing the block assembly from damaging the first seal in the powder outlet due to vibration, and further preventing the problem of developer scattering.

[0065] The powder cartridge and the electronic imaging device provided by the embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below in conjunction with specific embodiments.

[0066] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of a powder cartridge provided by an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of the powder cartridge at the location of the powder discharge structure. Figure 4 The L in the figure is the rotation axis of the powder cartridge.

[0067] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, an embodiment of the present invention provides a powder cartridge, comprising a cartridge body 10 , a powder outlet structure 20 and a connecting pipe 30 .

[0068] The cartridge body 10 has a first end 111 , and the cartridge body 10 is used to store the developer.

[0069] The barrel body 10 in this application is Figure 1 The main structure of the cylinder is the same as that of Figure 1 and Figure 4 , the barrel body 10 includes a powder barrel body 11 and a stirring frame 12. The powder barrel body 11 is generally a long cylindrical structure in this embodiment. In the extension direction of the length of the powder barrel body 11, the two ends of the powder barrel body 11 are respectively a first end 111 and a second end 112, the first end 111 is a powder outlet end, and the powder barrel body 11 has a receiving cavity inside for storing developer. The stirring frame 12 is fixed in the first end 111 and partially extends out of the first end 111. A gear ring 113 is provided on the outer surface of the powder barrel body 11 near the first end 111, and the gear ring 113 can be engaged with the driving component of the electronic imaging device to obtain a rotational driving force from the driving component, thereby driving the powder barrel body 11 to rotate around its rotation axis L and relative to the powder outlet structure 20. When the powder barrel body 11 rotates, the stirring frame 12 will rotate synchronously with the powder barrel body 11 to transfer the developer in the first end of the barrel body 10 to the powder outlet structure 20.

[0070] It should be noted that the driving component of the electronic imaging device may be a gear, and the gear may mesh with the ring gear 113 . When the gear rotates, the ring gear 113 is driven to rotate, thereby driving the powder cartridge body 10 to rotate.

[0071] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of a powder discharging structure and a connecting pipeline provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] like Figure 4 , Figure 5 and 6 As shown, the powder outlet structure 20 is installed at the first end 111 of the barrel body 10, and the powder outlet structure 20 has a powder outlet 201, which is used to discharge the developer in the barrel body 10 to the developer replenishing device 100 of the electronic imaging device for development. A first sealing member (not shown in the figure) is arranged in the powder outlet 201.

[0073] like Figure 6 As shown, the connecting pipe 30 is installed on the powder outlet structure 20 , and the connecting pipe 30 can move in the axial direction of the powder outlet 201 .

[0074] When the powder cartridge is installed on the developer replenishing device 100 of the electronic imaging device, the connecting pipe 30 opens the block assembly 103 of the developer replenishing device 100, one end of the connecting pipe 30 abuts against the powder outlet 201, and the other end of the connecting pipe 30 abuts against the receiving port 1011 of the developer replenishing device 100, so that the connecting pipe 30 connects the powder outlet 201 of the powder outlet structure 20 and the receiving port 1011 of the developer replenishing device 100.

[0075] Since the powder outlet 201 and the receiving port 1011 are separated by the connecting pipe 30, the block assembly 103 will not contact the powder outlet 201, thereby preventing the block assembly 103 from damaging the first seal in the powder outlet 201 due to vibration, thereby preventing the developer from scattering.

[0076] Optionally, the powder cartridge in the embodiment of the present invention further comprises: Figure 1 The pump part 40, the drive conversion part 50 and the shell 60 are connected to the powder outlet structure 20, the drive conversion part 50 is connected between the powder cylinder body 11 and the pump part 40, and the shell 60 covers the outside of the powder outlet structure 20, the connecting pipe 30, the pump part 40 and the drive conversion part 50.

[0077] The pump unit 40 has a volume that changes with its telescopic movement, and the drive conversion unit 50 converts the rotational force received by the ring gear 113 into a force for operating the pump unit 40 .

[0078] The drive conversion unit 50 can drive the pump unit 40 to perform axial expansion and contraction, and the pump unit 40 drives the internal air pressure of the powder cartridge body 11 to change back and forth between positive and negative pressures. Under the action of the positive pressure of the pump unit 40, the developer flows out from the powder outlet 201 and enters the developer replenishing device 100. When the pump unit 40 returns to its original state, the negative pressure drives the developer inside the powder cartridge body 11, so that the internal developer remains fluffy and avoids agglomeration.

[0079] It should be noted that, when the electronic imaging device is working, the gear ring 113 drives the powder cartridge body 11 to rotate relative to the powder outlet structure 20 and the housing 60 .

[0080] Alternatively, if Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the powder outlet structure 20 includes a powder outlet shell 21 and a slide plate 22. The powder outlet shell 21 is installed on the first end 111 of the barrel body 10. The slide plate 22 is slidably arranged on the powder outlet shell 21. The powder outlet 201 is arranged on the powder outlet shell 21. The slide plate 22 is used to open or close the powder outlet 201.

[0081] Figure 7 for Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the explosion structure of the powder discharging structure and the connecting pipeline; Figure 8 for Figure 7Schematic diagram of the structure of the powder outlet shell of the powder outlet structure in FIG.

[0082] Among them, Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the powder outlet shell 21 includes an upper flange portion 211 and a lower flange portion 212 . The lower flange portion 212 is fixed below the upper flange portion 211 . The lower flange portion 212 is provided with a second inclined portion 2121 , a slide groove 2122 , a first elastic protrusion 2123 and a flat portion 2124 .

[0083] The upper flange portion 211 is cylindrical in shape as a whole. The lower flange portion 212 is provided with a slide groove 2122 and a first elastic protrusion 2123 on both axial sides of the upper flange portion 211 .

[0084] The second inclined portion 2121 may be an inclined surface, and the inclination direction of the second inclined portion 2121 forms an acute angle with the direction from the first end 111 to the second end 112 .

[0085] The plane portion 2124 is connected to the second inclined portion 2121. The plane portion 2124 may be a horizontal plane.

[0086] The powder outlet 201 is disposed on the lower flange portion 212 , and the powder outlet 201 is located on the plane portion 2124 , and the powder outlet 201 is communicated with the upper flange portion 211 .

[0087] The slide plate 22 is provided with a limiting portion, a sealing surface 222, a second elastic protrusion 223 and a locking protrusion 224. The limiting portion is connected to the connecting pipe 30, and the limiting portion is used to make the connecting pipe 30 move along the limiting portion.

[0088] The number of the second elastic protrusions 223 corresponds to the number of the sliding grooves 2122 , and the second elastic protrusions 223 are engaged in the sliding grooves 2122 so that the slide plate 22 can slide in the sliding grooves 2122 .

[0089] The number of the locking protrusions 224 corresponds to the number of the first elastic protrusions 2123. When the locking protrusions 224 are engaged with the first elastic protrusions 2123, the slide plate 22 can be locked. When the slide plate 22 is in the locked state, the sealing surface 222 of the slide plate 22 can seal the powder outlet 201.

[0090] When the powder cartridge is in the initial state, the slide plate 22 is in a locked state, and the second elastic protrusion 223 is located at an end of the slide groove 2122 away from the powder cartridge body 11. The initial state of the powder cartridge is the state when the powder cartridge is not installed for use.

[0091] It should be noted that the electronic imaging device is provided with a clamping member that is engaged with the second elastic protrusion 223. When the powder cartridge is installed in the developer replenishing device 100 of the electronic imaging device, the powder discharge shell 21 and the slide plate 22 first move along the installation direction with the cartridge body 10, and then when the second elastic protrusion 223 of the slide plate 22 is engaged with the clamping member of the electronic imaging device, the slide plate 22 stops moving, and the powder discharge shell 21 continues to move with the cartridge body 10, at which time the slide plate 22 is unlocked. After the slide plate 22 is unlocked, the slide plate 22 and the connecting pipe 30 remain stationary in the installation direction.

[0092] Fig. 9 for Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the structure of the movable connecting rod in FIG. Fig.10 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of the powder cartridge in the first position when the stopper assembly is ready to be opened; Fig.11 for Fig.10 A schematic cross-sectional view of the powder cartridge in the embodiment of the present invention when the stopper assembly is in the first position and ready to be opened; Fig.12 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure when the powder cartridge in the embodiment opens the stopper assembly at the second position; Fig.13 for Fig.12 A schematic structural diagram of another viewing angle when the powder cartridge in the second position opens the stopper assembly; Fig.14 for Fig.12 A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the powder cartridge in FIG. 1 when the stopper assembly is opened at the second position. Fig.10 The direction indicated by the arrow X is the installation direction of the powder cartridge.

[0093] When the powder cartridge is installed in the developer replenishing device 100 , the powder cartridge has a first position and a second position. When the connecting pipe 30 moves to the first position, the connecting pipe 30 is not connected to the powder outlet 201 . When the connecting pipe 30 moves to the second position, the connecting pipe 30 is connected to the powder outlet 201 .

[0094] It should be noted that the first position is the position of the powder cartridge when the connecting pipe 30 is not connected to the powder outlet 201 . The second position is the position of the powder cartridge when the connecting pipe 30 is connected to the powder outlet 201 .

[0095] Alternatively, if Figure 7 As shown, the connecting pipe 30 includes a support member, a connecting member 32 and a connecting pipe 33. The support member is slidably arranged on the limiting portion of the slide plate 22. The connecting member 32 is connected to the support member. The connecting pipe 33 is arranged on the connecting member 32. The connecting pipe 33 has a connecting inlet 331 and a connecting outlet 332.

[0096] The support member may be an integral member or a plurality of separate members. In some examples, the support member includes a first support plate 311 and a second support plate 312, and the connecting member 32 is connected between the first support plate 311 and the second support plate 312. The first support plate 311 and the second support plate 312 may both be square plates.

[0097] The connecting member 32 is used to connect with the supporting member. The connecting member 32 can be a U-shaped plate.

[0098] The connecting pipe 33 is cylindrical in shape. One end of the connecting pipe 33 is located on the upper side of the connecting piece 32, and the other end of the connecting pipe 33 is located on the lower side of the connecting piece 32. The connecting inlet 331 is provided at the end of the connecting pipe 33 located on the upper side of the connecting piece 32, and the connecting outlet 332 is provided at the end of the connecting pipe 33 located on the lower side of the connecting piece 32.

[0099] It should be noted that when the slide plate 22 is unlocked, the axis of the connecting pipe 33 of the connecting pipe 30 is approximately coaxial with the axis of the receiving tube 101 .

[0100] like Figure 12 to Figure 14 As shown, when the connecting pipe 30 moves to the second position, the connecting inlet 331 is connected to the powder outlet 201, and the connecting outlet 332 is connected to the receiving port 1011. When the connecting inlet 331 is connected to the powder outlet 201, one end of the connecting pipe 33 located on the upper side of the connecting member 32 can be engaged in the powder outlet 201. When the connecting outlet 332 is connected to the receiving port 1011, one end of the connecting pipe 33 located on the lower side of the connecting member 32 abuts against the receiving cylinder 101 of the developer replenishing device 100.

[0101] Alternatively, if Figure 7 As shown, the connecting pipe 30 further includes a reinforcing member 35 , which is fixedly connected to the connecting member 32 and the connecting pipe 33 , respectively. The reinforcing member 35 is used to enhance the structural strength of the connecting pipe 30 .

[0102] The support and reinforcement member 35 is provided with a first inclined portion 301, which can cooperate with the second inclined portion 2121, and the second inclined portion 2121 can move the limiter of the slide 22 of the connecting pipe 30. The first inclined portion 301 can be an inclined surface, and the inclination direction of the first inclined portion 301 matches the inclination direction of the second inclined portion 2121.

[0103] When the toner cartridge is installed in the developer replenishing device 100 of the electronic imaging device, as shown in FIG. Fig.10 and Fig.11As shown, the powder discharge shell 21 and the slide plate 22 first move with the barrel body 10 along the installation direction to the position where the stopper assembly 103 is to be opened. At this time, when the second elastic protrusion 223 of the slide plate 22 is engaged with the engaging piece of the electronic imaging device, the slide plate 22 and the connecting pipe 30 stop moving in the installation direction; the powder discharge shell 21 continues to move with the barrel body 10 until the second inclined portion 2121 abuts against the first inclined portion 301, and the powder discharge shell 21 continues to move with the barrel body 10. Under the pressure of the powder discharge shell 21, the connecting pipe 30 moves downward along the second inclined portion 2121 until the connecting pipe 33 abuts against the flat portion 2124; as shown in FIG. Fig.12 , Fig.13 and Fig.14 As shown, the powder outlet shell 21 continues to move with the barrel body 10 , and when the connecting pipe 33 is engaged in the powder outlet 201 , the barrel body 10 and the powder outlet shell 21 stop moving. At this time, the connecting inlet 331 is connected with the powder outlet 201 .

[0104] Alternatively, if Figure 7 As shown, a first limiting hole 3111 is provided on the first support plate 311, and a second limiting hole 3121 is provided on the second support plate 312. The limiting portion includes a first limiting rod 2211 and a second limiting rod 2212. The first limiting hole 3111 of the first support plate 311 is slidably disposed on the first limiting rod 2211, and the second limiting hole 3121 of the second support plate 312 is slidably disposed on the second limiting rod 2212.

[0105] A first elastic member 23 is provided on the first limiting rod 2211, and a second elastic member 24 is provided on the second limiting rod 2212. One end of the first elastic member 23 abuts against the first supporting plate 311, and the other end of the first elastic member 23 abuts against the slide plate 22. One end of the second elastic member 24 abuts against the second supporting plate 312, and the other end of the second elastic member 24 abuts against the slide plate 22.

[0106] The first limiting hole 3111 and the second limiting hole 3121 are both circular holes. The shape of the first limiting rod 2211 matches the shape of the first limiting hole 3111, and the first limiting platform is provided on the first limiting rod 2211, and the first limiting platform is used to limit the first limiting hole 3111 from sliding out of the first limiting rod 2211. The shape of the second limiting rod 2212 matches the shape of the second limiting hole 3121, and the second limiting platform is provided on the second limiting rod 2212, and the second limiting platform is used to limit the second limiting hole 3121 from sliding out of the second limiting rod 2212.

[0107] The first elastic member 23 and the second elastic member 24 can both be springs. When the connecting pipe 30 moves downward along the second inclined portion 2121 under the pressure of the powder outlet shell 21 , the connecting pipe 30 will compress the first elastic member 23 and the second elastic member 24 .

[0108] Fig.15 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure when the connecting pipe of the powder cartridge in the embodiment opens the stopper assembly at the second position; Fig.16 A structural schematic diagram of the position of the movable connecting rod when the stopper assembly is not opened in the connecting pipe provided by the embodiment of the present invention; Fig.17 A schematic diagram of the structure of the position of the movable connecting rod when the connecting pipe opens the stopper assembly provided by an embodiment of the present invention. Fig.15 , Fig.16 and Fig.17 The direction of the arrow Z in FIG. 1 is the direction in which the linkage plate 106 moves upward.

[0109] Alternatively, if Figure 7 , Fig. 9 and Fig.15 As shown, the powder outlet structure 20 also includes a movable connecting rod 25, which includes a rotating end 251 and a free end 252, and the rotating end 251 is rotatably mounted on the powder outlet shell 21; the connecting pipe 30 also includes a fixed connecting rod 34, which is fixedly connected to the support member, and the fixed connecting rod 34 is slidably arranged on the movable connecting rod 25, and the free end 252 is used to open the block assembly 103 under the drive of the fixed connecting rod 34.

[0110] The support member includes a first support plate 311 and a second support plate 312 .

[0111] The fixing link 34 may be fixed only under the first support plate 311, or only under the second support plate 312. In other implementations, the fixing link 34 is fixed under both the first support plate 311 and the second support plate 312.

[0112] In an optional embodiment, the fixed link 34 is fixed under the first support plate 311, and the fixed link 34 is provided with a limiting protrusion 341. The movable link 25 is provided with a sliding groove 2501 and a rotating hole 2502. The rotating hole 2502 is located at the rotating end 251, and the sliding groove 2501 is located between the rotating end 251 and the free end 252. The limiting protrusion 341 is slidably arranged in the sliding groove 2501.

[0113] like Fig.16 As shown, when the support member of the connecting pipe 30 moves downward along the limiting portion of the slide plate 22, the limiting protrusion 341 of the fixed connecting rod 34 slides in the sliding groove 2501, causing the free end 252 to rotate downward; when the support member of the connecting pipe 30 moves upward along the limiting portion of the slide plate 22, the limiting protrusion 341 of the fixed connecting rod 34 slides in the sliding groove 2501, causing the free end 252 to rotate upward.

[0114] When the free end 252 of the movable link 25 rotates downward, the free end 252 of the movable link 25 can open the stopper assembly 103 .

[0115] Specifically, the block assembly 103 includes a first block 1031 and a second block 1032, the first block 1031 has a first shielding surface 1031a and a first linkage groove 1031b, the second block 1032 has a second shielding surface 1032a and a second linkage groove 1032b, and a linkage plate 106 is provided on the outer wall of the receiving tube 101 of the developer replenishing device 100, and the linkage plate 106 is slidably disposed in the first linkage groove 1031b and the second linkage groove 1032b. When the toner cartridge is installed in the developer replenishing device 100 of the electronic imaging device, as shown in FIG. Fig.10 and Fig.11 As shown, the powder discharge shell 21 and the slide plate 22 first move with the barrel body 10 along the installation direction to the position where the stopper assembly 103 is to be opened. At this time, when the second elastic protrusion 223 of the slide plate 22 is engaged with the engaging member of the electronic imaging device, the slide plate 22 and the connecting pipe 30 stop moving in the installation direction; the powder discharge shell 21 continues to move with the barrel body 10 until the second inclined portion 2121 abuts against the first inclined portion 301; as shown in FIG. Fig.16 and Fig.17 As shown, the powder outlet shell 21 continues to move with the barrel body 10, and the connecting pipe 30 moves downward along the second inclined portion 2121 under the pressure of the powder outlet shell 21. The fixed connecting rod 34 rotates the free end 252 downward through the limiting protrusion 341. When the free end 252 abuts against the first stopper 1031, the free end 252 can be inferred to push the first stopper 1031. The first linkage groove 1031b of the first stopper 1031 drives the linkage plate 106 to move upward, and the linkage plate 106 drives the receiving barrel 101 to move to the receiving port 1011 and abut against the connecting outlet 332. The linkage plate 106 drives the second stopper 1032 to open, and the first shielding surface 1031a and the second shielding surface 1032a move away from each other. At this time, the block assembly 103 is in an open state.

[0116] Furthermore, if Fig.15 As shown, the developer replenishing device 100 includes a third elastic member 104. When the linkage plate 106 moves upward, it compresses the third elastic member 104, and the third elastic member 104 can move the linkage plate 106 downward under the elastic force.

[0117] The third elastic member 104 may be a spring.

[0118] When the powder cartridge is installed and disassembled from the developer replenishing device 100 of the electronic imaging device, the cartridge body 10 and the powder outlet shell 21 move relative to the slide plate 22 in the opposite direction of the installation direction, and the connecting tube 33 detaches from the powder outlet 201 to the plane portion 2124. The sealing surface 222 of the slide plate 22 seals the powder outlet 201. The cartridge body 10 and the powder outlet shell 21 continue to move in the opposite direction of the installation direction, so that the connecting tube 33 is located at the edge of the plane portion 2124. The cartridge body 10 and the powder outlet shell 21 continue to move in the opposite direction of the installation direction. Under the limiting action of the first limiting rod 2211 and the second limiting rod 2212, the connecting tube 33 is located between the first elastic member 23 and the second elastic member 24 moves upward under the elastic force of the third elastic member 104, the limiting protrusion 341 of the fixed link 34 slides in the sliding groove 2501, so that the free end 252 rotates upward, the free end 252 is separated from the first stop block 1031, the receiving port 1011 is separated from the connecting outlet 332, and the linkage plate 106 moves downward under the elastic force of the third elastic member 104, the linkage plate 106 will drive the first stop block 1031 and the second stop block 1032 to rotate and close, the first blocking surface 1031a and the second blocking surface 1032a abut against each other, the first blocking surface 1031a and the second blocking surface 1032a block the top of the receiving port 1011, and at this time, the receiving port 1011 is closed.

[0119] The embodiment of the present invention further provides an electronic imaging device, including a developer replenishing device 100 and a powder cartridge, wherein the powder cartridge is detachably mounted on the developer replenishing device 100 .

[0120] Among them, the powder cartridge in this embodiment has the same structure as the powder cartridge provided in any of the above embodiments, and can bring the same or similar technical effects, which will not be described one by one here, and the details can be referred to the description of the above embodiments.

[0121] The following describes the installation and removal processes of the toner cartridge of the electronic imaging device in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0122] When the powder cartridge is installed into the developer replenishing device 100 in the electronic imaging device, the powder cartridge is loaded along the installation direction. When the second elastic protrusion 223 of the slide plate 22 is engaged with the engaging member of the electronic imaging device, the locking of the slide plate 22 by the first elastic protrusion 2123 is released, and the slide plate 22 and the connecting pipe 30 remain stationary in the installation direction. At this time, the axis of the connecting pipe 33 of the connecting pipe 30 is roughly coaxially arranged with the axis of the receiving barrel 101, and the powder outlet shell 21 continues to move with the barrel body 10 to the second inclined portion 2121 and abuts against the first inclined portion 301. Under the limiting action of the first limiting rod 2211 and the second limiting rod 2212, the connecting pipe 30 moves upward and downward along the second inclined portion 2121 under the extrusion of the powder outlet shell 21, and compresses the first elastic member 2 3 and the second elastic member 24, the limiting protrusion 341 of the fixed connecting rod 34 slides in the sliding groove 2501, so that the free end 252 tilts and rotates downward, and when the free end 252 abuts against the first stopper 1031, the free end 252 can push the free end 252 to push the first stopper 1031, and the first linkage groove 1031b of the first stopper 1031 drives the linkage plate 106 to move upward, and the linkage plate 106 drives the receiving cylinder 101 to move to the receiving port 1011 and abut against the connecting outlet 332, and at the same time, the linkage plate 106 drives the second stopper 1032 to open, and the powder shell 21 continues to move with the cylinder body 10, and when the connecting pipe 33 is engaged in the powder outlet 201, the cylinder body 10 and the powder shell 21 stop moving, and at this time, the connecting inlet 331 is connected with the powder outlet 201. Through the above process, the powder outlet 201, the connecting inlet 331, and the connecting outlet 332 are coaxially aligned with the receiving port 1011. When the electronic imaging device is working, the driving component of the electronic imaging device drives the cylinder body 10 to rotate, so that the powder cylinder can work normally, and the developer in the powder cylinder is discharged into the developer replenishing device 100.

[0123] When the developer in the powder cartridge body 11 is used up and the powder cartridge needs to be taken out, the cartridge body 10 is manually pulled out, and the cartridge body 10 and the powder outlet shell 21 move relative to the slide plate 22 in the opposite direction of the installation direction, and the connecting tube 33 is separated from the powder outlet 201 to the plane portion 2124, and the sealing surface 222 of the slide plate 22 seals the powder outlet 201, and the cartridge body 10 and the powder outlet shell 21 continue to move in the opposite direction of the installation direction, so that the connecting tube 33 is located at the edge of the plane portion 2124, and the cartridge body 10 and the powder outlet shell 21 continue to move in the opposite direction of the installation direction, and the second elastic protrusion 223 of the slide plate 22 is separated from the locking piece of the electronic imaging device, and the first elastic protrusion 2123 is engaged with the locking piece of the electronic imaging device. The fixed protrusion 224 is locked, and under the limiting action of the first limiting rod 2211 and the second limiting rod 2212, the connecting tube 33 moves upward under the elastic force of the first elastic member 23 and the second elastic member 24, and the limiting protrusion 341 of the fixed connecting rod 34 slides in the sliding groove 2501, so that the free end 252 rotates upward, and the free end 252 is separated from the first stop block 1031. The connecting tube 33 is restored to its initial state upward under the elastic force of the first elastic member 23 and the second elastic member 24, and the receiving tube 101 of the developer replenishing device 100 is restored to its initial state under the action of the third elastic member 104, and the stop block assembly 103 is restored to the closed state, so that the powder cartridge can be removed.

[0124] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, rather than to limit it. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the aforementioned embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the aforementioned embodiments, or replace some or all of the technical features therein with equivalents. However, these modifications or replacements do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A powder cartridge, characterized in that: It includes a barrel body, a powder discharging structure and a connecting pipe; The barrel body has a first end, and the barrel body is used to store developer; The powder outlet structure is installed at the first end of the barrel body, and the powder outlet structure has a powder outlet, and the powder outlet is used to discharge the developer in the barrel body; The connecting pipe is installed on the powder outlet structure, and is used to open the stopper assembly of the developer replenishing device when the powder cartridge is installed on the developer replenishing device of the electronic imaging device, and to connect the powder outlet of the powder outlet structure and the receiving port of the developer replenishing device; The connecting pipe includes a support member, the powder outlet structure includes a powder outlet shell and a movable connecting rod, the movable connecting rod includes a rotating end and a free end, and the rotating end is rotatably mounted on the powder outlet shell; the connecting pipe also includes a fixed connecting rod, the fixed connecting rod is fixedly connected to the support member, the fixed connecting rod is slidably arranged on the movable connecting rod, and the free end is used to open the block assembly under the drive of the fixed connecting rod.

2. The powder cartridge according to claim 1, characterized in that: The powder outlet structure further includes a slide plate, the powder outlet shell is mounted on the first end of the barrel body, the slide plate is slidably mounted on the powder outlet shell, the powder outlet is arranged on the powder outlet shell, and the slide plate is used to open or close the powder outlet; The slide plate is provided with a limiting portion, the limiting portion is connected to the connecting pipe, and the limiting portion is used to enable the connecting pipe to move along the limiting portion.

3. The powder cartridge according to claim 2, characterized in that: The connecting pipeline further comprises a connecting piece and a connecting pipe, the supporting piece is slidably arranged on the limiting portion, the connecting piece is connected to the supporting piece, the connecting pipe is arranged on the connecting piece, and the connecting pipe has a connecting inlet and a connecting outlet; One end of the connecting tube is used to be engaged in the powder outlet when the connecting pipe moves to the second position, and the other end of the connecting tube is used to abut against the receiving tube of the developer replenishing device when the connecting pipe moves to the second position.

4. The powder cartridge according to claim 3, characterized in that: The support member includes a first support plate and a second support plate, the connecting member is connected between the first support plate and the second support plate, the first support plate is provided with a first limiting hole, the second support plate is provided with a second limiting hole, the limiting portion includes a first limiting rod and a second limiting rod, the first limiting hole of the first support plate is slidably arranged on the first limiting rod, and the second limiting hole of the second support plate is slidably arranged on the second limiting rod; A first elastic member is provided on the first limiting rod, and a second elastic member is provided on the second limiting rod. One end of the first elastic member abuts against the first supporting plate, and the other end of the first elastic member abuts against the sliding plate. One end of the second elastic member abuts against the second supporting plate, and the other end of the second elastic member abuts against the sliding plate.

5. The powder cartridge according to claim 4, characterized in that: The fixed link is fixed under the first support plate, the fixed link is provided with a limiting protrusion, the movable link is provided with a sliding groove and a rotating hole, the rotating hole is located at the rotating end, the sliding groove is located between the rotating end and the free end, and the limiting protrusion is slidably arranged in the sliding groove.

6. The powder cartridge according to claim 5, characterized in that: The block assembly comprises a first block and a second block, the first block having a first blocking surface and a first linkage groove, the second block having a second blocking surface and a second linkage groove, a linkage plate is arranged on the outer wall of the receiving port, and the linkage plate is slidably arranged in the first linkage groove and the second linkage groove; The free end is used to push the first stopper when the connecting pipe opens the stopper assembly.

7. The powder cartridge according to claim 3, characterized in that: The connecting pipe further comprises a reinforcing member, which is fixedly connected to the connecting member and the connecting pipe respectively, and is used to strengthen the structural strength of the connecting pipe; The support member and the reinforcement member are provided with a first inclined portion, the powder outlet shell includes an upper flange portion and a lower flange portion, the lower flange portion is fixed below the upper flange portion, and the lower flange portion is provided with a second inclined portion, the second inclined portion can cooperate with the first inclined portion, and the second inclined portion is used to make the connecting pipe move along the limiting portion.

8. The powder cartridge according to claim 7, characterized in that: The powder outlet is arranged on the lower flange part, and the powder outlet is communicated with the upper flange part. The lower flange part is also provided with a slide groove and a first elastic protrusion. The slide plate is also provided with a sealing surface, a second elastic protrusion and a locking protrusion. The second elastic protrusion is slidably arranged in the slide groove. When the locking protrusion is elastically engaged with the first elastic protrusion, the sealing surface is used to seal the powder outlet.

9. An electronic imaging device, characterized in that: include: A developer replenishing device and a powder cartridge as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8; The powder cartridge is detachably mounted on the developer replenishing device.

Images