ink cartridge

Abstract

The application relates to an ink cartridge, which comprises a cartridge body, an actuating device and a deformation piece; the cartridge body is internally provided with a containing cavity; the deformation piece is arranged in the containing cavity to divide the containing cavity into an inflation cavity and an ink storage cavity; the outer side wall of the cartridge body is provided with an ink outlet and an inflation port, wherein the ink outlet is communicated with the ink storage cavity, and the inflation port is communicated with the inflation cavity; the actuating device is arranged in the containing cavity and is in contact with the deformation piece; during deformation of the deformation piece, the actuating device can apply an action force along the thickness direction of the cartridge body to the deformation piece; the ink storage cavity is not communicated with the external atmosphere, so that the ink cannot be oxidized by external air to cause caking, the problem that the print head of an imaging device is blocked is avoided, the structure of the ink cartridge is simplified, and the assembly efficiency is improved.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This invention relates to the field of printing device technology, and more particularly to an ink cartridge. [Background Technology]

[0002] With the rapid development of society and economy, people's demand for printers in daily office work is also increasing. In many existing inkjet printers, replaceable ink cartridges are usually used as ink containers to provide ink to the printer.

[0003] In a known ink cartridge, the cartridge includes a cartridge body, a deformable component, and a gas control mechanism. The cartridge body has an ink storage chamber, with the deformable component and gas control mechanism respectively disposed within the ink storage chamber. The cartridge body also has a vent and an ink outlet communicating with the ink storage chamber. After the cartridge is installed in an imaging device, the gas control mechanism seals the vent. As printing progresses, the ink in the ink storage chamber is continuously consumed, creating a negative pressure. Under this negative pressure, the deformable component expands to expel the ink from the storage chamber. When the deformable component expands to a certain extent, it contacts the gas control mechanism, causing the gas control mechanism to open the vent. Outside air enters the ink storage chamber through the vent to eliminate the negative pressure. The deformable component then shrinks, disengaging from the gas control mechanism, which returns to its initial position to seal the vent. This cycle continues until the ink in the storage chamber is depleted.

[0004] However, with the above method, the outside atmosphere needs to enter the ink storage chamber multiple times, which makes the ink in the ink storage chamber prone to oxidation and clumping, thus causing the print head of the imaging device to be easily blocked. [Summary of the Invention]

[0005] In order to overcome the above-mentioned defects, this application provides an ink cartridge to solve the problem that ink is prone to oxidation due to repeated entry of external atmosphere into the ink storage chamber in existing ink cartridges.

[0006] This application provides an ink cartridge, including a cartridge body, an actuating device, and a deformable component. The cartridge body has a receiving cavity, and the deformable component is disposed within the receiving cavity to divide the receiving cavity into an inflation cavity and an ink storage cavity. The outer wall of the cartridge body has an ink outlet and an inflation port, wherein the ink outlet communicates with the ink storage cavity, and the inflation port communicates with the inflation cavity. The actuating device is disposed within the receiving cavity and contacts the deformable component. During the deformation of the deformable component, the actuating device can apply a force along the thickness direction of the cartridge body to the deformable component.

[0007] Optionally, the actuation device includes a support plate and an actuation assembly, and the support plate is in contact with the deformable part; during the deformation of the deformable part, the actuation assembly can apply a force to the support plate to create a negative pressure in the ink storage cavity, and the negative pressure is positively correlated with the force and / or the area of ​​the support plate.

[0008] Optionally, the actuation component includes an elastic element; a support plate is located on the side of the deformable member facing the ink storage cavity, and the elastic element is disposed between the support plate and the inner wall of the ink storage cavity facing the deformable member.

[0009] Optionally, the elastic element is a conical spring, and the outer diameter of the conical spring gradually increases in the direction close to the deformable element.

[0010] Optionally, the support plate is provided with a clearance hole, so that at least a portion of the conical spring can extend into the clearance hole when the conical spring is in a compressed state.

[0011] Optionally, the elastic element is an arc-shaped spring sheet, and the arc-shaped spring sheet protrudes in the direction of approaching or moving away from the support plate.

[0012] Optionally, the arc-shaped spring includes a first connecting part, a second connecting part, and an arc-shaped part, with the arc-shaped part connected between the first connecting part and the second connecting part; the first connecting part and the second connecting part are respectively connected to the inner wall of the ink storage cavity facing the deformable part, and the arc-shaped part protrudes towards the support plate and is connected to the support plate.

[0013] Optionally, the actuation assembly includes a fixed plate; a support plate is located on the side of the deformable part facing the ink storage cavity, the fixed plate is disposed on the inner wall of the inflation cavity facing the deformable part, and the support plate and / or the fixed plate can generate a magnetic field so that the fixed plate can attract the support plate.

[0014] Optionally, the actuation device includes at least one elastic element disposed within the ink storage cavity, and at least a portion of the elastic element is in direct or indirect contact with the surface of the deformable element facing the ink storage cavity.

[0015] Optionally, the ink storage cavity has a first sidewall and a second sidewall opposite to each other along a first direction, and a third sidewall and a fourth sidewall opposite to each other along a second direction, wherein the first direction is perpendicular to the second direction; an elastic member is connected between the first sidewall and the second sidewall; and / or, the elastic member is connected between the third sidewall and the fourth sidewall.

[0016] Optionally, the actuation device further includes a support plate located on the side of the deformable member facing the ink storage cavity, and at least a portion of the elastic member is connected to the support plate; during the deformation of the deformable member, the elastic member can apply a force to the support plate to create a negative pressure in the ink storage cavity, the negative pressure being positively correlated with the force and / or the area of ​​the support plate.

[0017] Optionally, the cartridge includes a main body and a cover, which together enclose a receiving cavity; a deformable part is disposed inside the main body, which together with the main body forms an ink storage cavity; the ink cartridge also includes a sealing film, which is disposed between the main body and the cover, and the sealing film together with the deformable part forms an inflation cavity.

[0018] Optionally, the ratio between the support plate and the bottom area of ​​the ink storage cavity is greater than or equal to 30%.

[0019] Optionally, the ink storage chamber contains gas, and the gas volume is greater than or equal to 4 ml.

[0020] The beneficial effects of adopting the above technical solution are:

[0021] Compared to existing technologies, in the ink cartridge provided by this invention, when the ink cartridge is installed in an imaging device and enters the printing state, the imaging device first inflates the inflation chamber through the inflation port. The deformable component deforms to reduce the volume of the ink storage chamber, causing the ink in the ink storage chamber to be squeezed out. Then, the imaging device stops inflating, and the deformable component shrinks to a certain extent under the action of the actuation device, creating a certain negative pressure in the ink storage chamber. This prevents ink from leaking out of the ink outlet after printing stops. Compared to existing ink cartridges, since the ink storage chamber is not connected to the outside atmosphere, the ink will not be oxidized by the outside air and clump during use, thus avoiding the problem of printhead clogging in the imaging device. In addition, the ink in the ink storage chamber can be squeezed out by the deformation of the deformable component, and there is no need to set up an additional air control mechanism in the ink storage chamber, which simplifies the structure of the ink cartridge and improves assembly efficiency.

[0022] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are merely exemplary and do not limit this application. [Attached Image Description]

[0023] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an imaging system provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0025] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an ink cartridge provided in Embodiment 1 of this application.

[0026] Figure 3 for Figure 1 An exploded view of part of the structure of the ink cartridge.

[0027] Figure 4 for Figure 1 The diagram shown is a partial structural breakdown of the ink cartridge from another angle.

[0028] Figure 5 for Figure 1The diagram shown is an exploded view of the ink cartridge structure.

[0029] Figure 6 for Figure 3 The diagram shows a structural schematic of the mounting bracket in the ink cartridge.

[0030] Figure 7 for Figure 6 The diagram shows the mounting bracket from another angle.

[0031] Figure 8 for Figure 3 The diagram shows another structural design of the mounting bracket in the ink cartridge.

[0032] Figure 9 for Figure 5 The diagram shows the structure of the deformable component in the ink cartridge.

[0033] Figure 10 for Figure 9 The diagram shows the structural schematic of the deformed component from another angle.

[0034] Figure 11 for Figure 5 The diagram shows the structure of the support plate in the ink cartridge.

[0035] Figure 12 for Figure 11 The diagram shows the support plate from another angle.

[0036] Figure 13 This is an exploded view of the structure of an ink cartridge provided in Embodiment 2 of this application.

[0037] Figure 14 for Figure 13 The diagram shows the assembly relationship between the support plate and the elastic element in the ink cartridge.

[0038] Figure 15 This is an exploded view of the structure of an ink cartridge provided in Embodiment 3 of this application.

[0039] Figure 16 This is an exploded view of the structure of an ink cartridge provided in Embodiment 4 of this application.

[0040] Figure 17 for Figure 16 The diagram shows the structure of the main body of the ink cartridge.

[0041] Figure 18 for Figure 17 The diagram shows a partial enlarged view of the main body at point A.

[0042] Figure 19 for Figure 17 The diagram shows a partial enlarged view of the main body at point B.

[0043] Figure 20 for Figure 16 The diagram shows the structure of the elastic element in the ink cartridge.

[0044] Figure 21 for Figure 16 The diagram shows the assembly relationship between the elastic element and the main body of the ink cartridge.

[0045] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the assembly relationship between the elastic element and the main body in an ink cartridge, as provided in Embodiment 5 of this application.

[0046] Figure label:

[0047] 1000-Imaging System;

[0048] 100-Ink Cartridge;

[0049] 1-Box body;

[0050] 10a - Upper end face; 10b - Lower end face; 10c - Left end face; 10d - Right end face; 10e - Front end face; 10f - Rear end face; 11 - Ink outlet; 12 - Air inlet; 13 - Recessed part; 14 - Ink storage cavity; 141 - First side wall; 142 - Second side wall; 143 - Third side wall; 144 - Fourth side wall; 145a - First mounting post; 145b - Second mounting post; 15 - Positioning part; 16a - Main body part; 16b - Cover part; 17 - Connecting channel;

[0051] 2-Chip;

[0052] 3-Mounting bracket;

[0053] 31-Abutting part; 32-Insertion part; 33-Operating part; 331a-Front side wall; 331b-Rear side wall; 332-Receiving groove; 333-Mounting cavity;

[0054] 4-Deformable parts;

[0055] 41-First body part; 42-First protrusion; 43-First mounting groove;

[0056] 5-Support plate;

[0057] 51-Second body part; 52-Second protrusion; 53-Allowing hole; 54-Second mounting groove;

[0058] 6-Elastic element;

[0059] 61-First connecting part; 62-Second connecting part; 63-Arc-shaped part; 64a-First contact part; 64b-Second contact part; 64c-First extension part; 64d-Second extension part;

[0060] 7-Valve assembly;

[0061] 71-Matching component; 72-Sealing component; 73-Return component;

[0062] 8-Seals;

[0063] 9-Fixing plate;

[0064] 210 - Printhead;

[0065] 220 - Gas supply organization;

[0066] 230 - Controller;

[0067] 240-Driver;

[0068] 250-Media.

Detailed Implementation Methods

[0069] To better understand the technical solution of this application, the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0070] It should be understood that the described embodiments are merely some, not all, of the embodiments in this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments in this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0071] The terminology used in the embodiments of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this application. The singular forms “a,” “the,” and “the” used in the embodiments of this application and the appended claims are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0072] It should be understood that the term "and / or" used in this article is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this article generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0073] Existing ink cartridges typically include a cartridge body, a deformable component, and a gas control mechanism. The cartridge body contains an ink storage chamber, with the deformable component and gas control mechanism housed within it. The cartridge body also has a vent and an ink outlet communicating with the ink storage chamber. After the cartridge is installed in an imaging device, initially, the gas control mechanism blocks the vent. As printing progresses, the ink in the storage chamber is continuously consumed, creating a negative pressure. Under this negative pressure, the deformable component expands to expel the ink from the storage chamber. When the deformable component expands to a certain extent, it contacts the gas control mechanism, causing it to open the vent. Outside air enters the storage chamber through the vent to eliminate the negative pressure. The deformable component then shrinks, disengaging from the gas control mechanism, which returns to its initial position to block the vent. This cycle continues until the ink in the storage chamber is depleted.

[0074] However, because the outside atmosphere needs to enter the ink storage chamber multiple times, the ink in the ink storage chamber is prone to oxidation and clumping, which can easily cause the print head of the imaging device to become clogged. In addition, in order to make the ink in the ink storage chamber flow out continuously, an air control mechanism needs to be set in the ink storage chamber to open or close the air vent, making the structure of the ink cartridge relatively complex.

[0075] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this application provides an ink cartridge, comprising at least a cartridge body, an actuating device, and a deformable component. The cartridge body has a receiving cavity, and the deformable component is disposed within the receiving cavity to divide it into an inflation cavity and an ink storage cavity. The outer wall of the cartridge body has an ink outlet and an inflation port, wherein the ink outlet communicates with the ink storage cavity, and the inflation port communicates with the inflation cavity. The actuating device is disposed within the receiving cavity and contacts the deformable component. During the deformation of the deformable component, the actuating device can apply a force along the thickness direction of the cartridge body to the deformable component.

[0076] Please see Figure 1 This application provides an imaging system 1000, which includes at least an imaging device (not shown in the figure) and an ink cartridge 100. The ink cartridge 100 is detachably disposed in the imaging device and can supply ink for the printing work of the imaging device. The imaging device includes at least a printhead 210, an air supply mechanism 220, a controller 230, a driver 240, and an ink supply mechanism (not shown in the figure).

[0077] Specifically, after the imaging device is installed inside the imaging device, the ink supply mechanism can draw out the ink stored in the ink cartridge 100 and transfer it to the print head 210. The print head 210 can spray ink onto the medium 250 according to the pre-printed image. The air supply mechanism 220 can input a certain amount of fluid (such as gas) into the ink cartridge 100 to change the pressure inside the ink cartridge 100, so that the ink inside the ink cartridge is squeezed out. The driver 240 can control the displacement of the print head 210 and / or the platform storing the medium 250. The controller 230 can be used to control the working state of any of the aforementioned mechanisms.

[0078] For ease of understanding and explanation, the length direction of ink cartridge 100 is pre-defined as... Figure 2 The X-axis direction shown is pre-set to be the thickness direction of the ink cartridge 100. Figure 2 The Y-axis direction shown is pre-set to be the width direction of the ink cartridge 100. Figure 2 The Z-axis direction is shown, wherein the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis intersect each other. Preferably, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are perpendicular to each other.

[0079] Example 1

[0080] Please see Figures 2 to 5 This application provides an ink cartridge 100, which includes at least a cartridge body 1, an actuating device, and a deformable member 4. The cartridge body 1 has a receiving cavity (not shown in the figure), and the deformable member 4 is disposed in the receiving cavity to divide the receiving cavity into an inflation cavity (not shown in the figure) and an ink storage cavity 14. The outer side wall of the cartridge body 1 is provided with an ink outlet 11 communicating with the ink storage cavity 14 and an inflation port 12 communicating with the inflation cavity. The actuating device is disposed in the receiving cavity and contacts the deformable member 4. During the deformation of the deformable member 4, the actuating device can apply a force to the deformable member 4 along the thickness direction (Y-axis direction) of the cartridge body 1.

[0081] Specifically, the box body 1 includes an upper end face 10a and a lower end face 10b opposite to each other along a first direction, a left end face 10c and a right end face 10d opposite to each other along a second direction, and a front end face 10e and a rear end face 10f opposite to each other along a third direction. The first direction is parallel to the Z-axis and faces the negative direction of the Z-axis, the second direction is parallel to the X-axis and faces the negative direction of the X-axis, and the third direction is parallel to the Y-axis and faces the negative direction of the Y-axis.

[0082] The ink cartridge 100 can be installed in the imaging device in the opposite direction of the second direction (positive direction of the X-axis), and the ink cartridge 100 can be removed from the imaging device in the second direction (negative direction of the X-axis).

[0083] The ink outlet 11 and the air inlet 12 are respectively located on the left end face 10c. When the ink cartridge 100 is installed in the imaging device, the ink supply mechanism can be inserted into the ink outlet 11, and the air supply mechanism 220 can be inserted into the air inlet 12. That is, the left end face 10c is close to and faces the ink supply mechanism and the air supply mechanism 220.

[0084] Specifically, the air inlet 12 and the ink outlet 11 are spaced apart along the first direction, that is, the distance between the air inlet 12 and the lower end face 10b is greater than the distance between the ink outlet 11 and the lower end face 10b.

[0085] It is understood that the ink outlet 11 and / or the air inlet 12 can be located on any of the aforementioned end faces, that is, the ink outlet 11 and the air inlet 12 can be located on one of the aforementioned end faces at the same time, or they can be located on any two of the aforementioned different end faces.

[0086] In this application, when the ink cartridge 100 is installed in the imaging device and enters the printing state, the ink supply mechanism can draw ink from the ink outlet 11. As the ink in the ink storage chamber 14 is continuously consumed, a negative pressure will be formed inside the ink storage chamber 14. Under the action of the negative pressure, the deformable part 4 deforms to reduce the volume of the ink storage chamber 14, causing the ink in the ink storage chamber 14 to be squeezed out. In subsequent printing operations, in order to prevent the ink supply mechanism from being unable to draw ink smoothly from the ink outlet 11 due to the negative pressure inside the ink storage chamber 14, the air supply mechanism 220 first inflates the air chamber through the air inlet 12. Under the action of air pressure, the deformable part 4 deforms to reduce the volume of the ink storage chamber 14, causing the ink in the ink storage chamber 14 to be squeezed out. Then the air supply mechanism 220 stops inflating, and the gas in the air chamber will flow out from the air inlet 12.

[0087] Because the actuating device provides some support for the deformable part 4, it causes the part to shrink and deform to a certain extent under the action of the actuating device. The deformation of the part 4 reduces the negative pressure in the ink storage chamber 14, but a certain negative pressure is still maintained in the ink storage chamber 14, preventing ink from flowing out of the ink outlet 11 and causing ink leakage after printing stops. Since the ink storage chamber 14 is not connected to the outside atmosphere, the ink will not be oxidized by the outside air and clump during the use of the ink cartridge 100, thus avoiding the problem of the print head 210 of the imaging device becoming clogged.

[0088] The ink in the ink storage cavity 14 can be squeezed out by the deformation of the deformable part 4. The ink storage cavity 14 does not have the air control mechanism set in the existing ink cartridges. Therefore, the effective space of the ink storage cavity 14 for storing ink will not be reduced due to the presence of the air control mechanism. This increases the ink capacity of the ink cartridge 100, simplifies the structure of the ink cartridge 100, improves assembly efficiency, and reduces manufacturing costs.

[0089] Furthermore, a slide rail (not shown in the figure) may be provided on the lower end face 10b, and a guide rail (not shown in the figure) may be provided inside the imaging device. During the process of installing the ink cartridge 100 into the imaging device or removing it from the imaging device, the cooperation between the slide rail and the guide rail ensures that the ink cartridge 100 is securely installed inside the imaging device, and facilitates the smooth installation or removal of the ink cartridge 100.

[0090] Please see Figure 5 The box body 1 includes a main body 16a and a cover 16b. The main body 16a and the cover 16b together enclose a cavity. The cover 16b and the main body 16a can be connected by welding, adhesion, plug-in fitting, threaded fitting, or other methods.

[0091] Specifically, the deformable part 4 and the main body 16a together enclose the ink storage cavity 14, and the deformable part 4 and the cover part 16b together enclose the inflation cavity. The front end face 10e is located on the cover part 16b, and the upper end face 10a, lower end face 10b, left end face 10c, right end face 10d and rear end face 10f are located on the main body 16a. The inflation cavity is located near the front end face 10e, and the ink storage cavity 14 is located near the rear end face 10f; or, the rear end face 10f is located on the cover part 16b, and the upper end face 10a, lower end face 10b, left end face 10c, right end face 10d and front end face 10e are located on the main body 16a. The inflation cavity is located near the rear end face 10f, and the ink storage cavity 14 is located near the front end face 10e.

[0092] Please continue reading Figure 5 The actuation device includes a support plate 5 and an actuation assembly (not shown in the figure), and the support plate 5 is in contact with the deformable member 4. During the deformation of the deformable member 4, the actuation assembly can apply a force to the support plate 5 to create a negative pressure in the ink storage cavity 14. The negative pressure is positively correlated with the force and / or the area of ​​the support plate.

[0093] In some embodiments, the support plate 5 is separately disposed from the deformable member 4, and the support plate 5 is located on the side of the deformable member 4 facing the ink storage cavity 14. When the deformable member 4 deforms in a direction closer to the support plate 5, the deformable member 4 may come into contact with the support plate 5.

[0094] In other embodiments, the support plate 5 and the deformable member 4 can be connected, that is, the support plate 5 can be disposed on the surface of the deformable member 4 facing the ink storage cavity 14. Therefore, the support plate 5 is also located on the side of the deformable member 4 facing the ink storage cavity 14.

[0095] Furthermore, the actuation component includes an elastic element 6, which is disposed between the support plate 5 and the inner wall of the ink storage cavity 14 facing the deformable element 4.

[0096] During the deformation process of the deformable part 4, the deformable part 4 can drive the support plate 5 to move towards the inner wall facing the ink storage cavity 14. At this time, the elastic part 6 is in a compressed state. The elastic part 6 can provide support to the support plate 5 and transmit it to the deformable part 4, so that the deformation of the deformable part 4 will not completely eliminate the negative pressure in the ink storage cavity 14.

[0097] The magnitude of the negative pressure within the ink storage cavity 14 is positively correlated with the area of ​​the support plate 5; the larger the area of ​​the support plate 5, the greater the negative pressure within the ink storage cavity 14. Furthermore, the magnitude of the negative pressure within the ink storage cavity 14 is also positively correlated with the elastic force generated after the elastic element 6 is compressed; the greater the elastic force generated after the elastic element 6 is compressed, the greater the negative pressure within the ink storage cavity 14. Moreover, the magnitude of the elastic force generated after the elastic element 6 is compressed is related to factors such as its material and shape.

[0098] Specifically, during the use of the ink cartridge 100, the negative pressure in the ink storage chamber 14 needs to be maintained within a moderate range. If the negative pressure in the ink storage chamber 14 is too high, it will not only cause the ink in the ink storage chamber 14 to be difficult to be drawn out by the ink supply mechanism, but also, since the imaging device usually has multiple ink cartridges 100 for storing different colors of ink, it will also cause the nozzles on the print head 210 (not shown in the figure) to easily draw in different colors of ink on the surface of the print head 210, resulting in color mixing or even damage to the print head 210; if the negative pressure in the ink storage chamber 14 is too low, the print head 210 is still prone to ink dripping when the imaging device is in standby mode.

[0099] In some embodiments, the ratio between the support plate 5 and the bottom area of ​​the ink storage cavity 14 is greater than or equal to 30%. Preferably, the ratio between the support plate 5 and the bottom area of ​​the ink storage cavity 14 is greater than or equal to 50%.

[0100] Specifically, the closer the area of ​​the support plate 5 is to the bottom area of ​​the ink storage cavity 14, the larger the contact area between the deformable part 4 and the support plate 5, resulting in a larger area of ​​the deformable part 4 that can be supported, and a larger negative pressure that can be maintained in the ink storage cavity 14, thus avoiding ink leakage due to unstable negative pressure in the ink storage cavity 14. The ratio between the bottom area of ​​the support plate 5 and the bottom area of ​​the ink storage cavity 14 can be 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 100%, etc., and is not limited here. In this embodiment, the ratio between the bottom area of ​​the support plate 5 and the bottom area of ​​the ink storage cavity 14 can be 60%.

[0101] Please see Figure 5 , Figure 11 and Figure 12In some embodiments, the elastic element 6 is a conical spring, and the outer diameter of the conical spring gradually increases in the direction close to the deformable element 4. The support plate 5 is provided with a clearance hole 53, and when the conical spring is in a compressed state, at least a portion of the conical spring can extend into the clearance hole 53.

[0102] Specifically, the ink storage cavity 14 extends protrudingly from the inner wall of the deformable part 4 to form a positioning part 15. One end of the conical spring is sleeved on the outer periphery of the positioning part 15. This provides a positioning function for the connection between the conical spring and the main body 16a, and can prevent the conical spring from shifting during deformation.

[0103] When the conical spring is compressed to a certain extent, the portion of the conical spring whose outer diameter is smaller than the inner diameter of the clearance hole 53 can extend into the clearance hole 53. This releases part of the elastic potential energy of the conical spring, preventing the elastic force of the conical spring from being entirely applied to the support plate 5 and transmitted to the deformable part 4. During the process of the ink in the ink storage chamber 14 being completely depleted, the force exerted by the conical spring on the support plate 5 remains basically unchanged, which is conducive to the complete discharge of the ink in the ink storage chamber 14. In addition, this can also prevent the negative pressure in the ink storage chamber 14 from being too large. Since imaging devices are usually equipped with multiple ink cartridges 100 for storing ink of different colors, this avoids the problem of color mixing caused by the nozzles (not shown in the figure) on the print head 210 sucking in ink of different colors on the surface of the print head 210.

[0104] Furthermore, the length of the conical spring in its natural state is greater than the distance between the two inner walls of the air chamber and ink storage chamber 14 facing the deformable part 4.

[0105] Specifically, in the initial state, the conical spring is in a compressed state, and at this time, the volume of the inflation chamber is small. When the air supply mechanism 220 inflates the inflation port 12, the deformable part 4, under the action of air pressure, drives the support plate 5 to move towards the inner wall of the ink storage chamber 14 facing the deformable part 4, thereby further compressing the conical spring. When the air supply mechanism 220 stops inflating the inflation port 12, the conical spring can release greater elastic potential energy, which is conducive to the gas in the inflation chamber being discharged from the inflation port 12, thereby helping to maintain a certain negative pressure in the ink storage chamber 14.

[0106] In some embodiments, the deformable element 4 can be an elastic film. The deformable element 4 can be connected to the support plate 5 by welding, adhesion or other means; or, the deformable element 4 can be separated from the support plate 5, with the support plate 5 located on the side of the deformable element 4 facing the ink storage cavity 14.

[0107] In other embodiments, please refer to Figures 9 to 12 The deformable part 4 can be made of any other elastic material, and the deformable part 4 has a certain degree of hardness.

[0108] In one feasible implementation, the deformable part 4 can be separated from the support plate 5, and the support plate 5 is located on the side of the deformable part 4 facing the ink storage cavity 14.

[0109] In another feasible embodiment, a mounting structure (not shown in the figure) may be formed on the deformable part 4 for mounting the support plate 5.

[0110] Specifically, the deformable part 4 includes a first body portion 41 and a first protrusion 42. The first protrusion 42 extends from the side wall of the first body portion 41 facing the air filling cavity, so that a first mounting groove 43 is formed recessed in the side wall of the first body portion 41 facing the ink storage cavity 14. The support plate 5 includes a second body portion 51 and a second protrusion 52. The second protrusion 52 extends from the side wall of the second body portion 51 facing away from the ink storage cavity 14.

[0111] The second protrusion 52 can be inserted into the first mounting groove 43, which can provide a positioning function for the connection between the deformable part 4 and the support plate 5. The deformable part 4 and the support plate 5 can be connected by welding, adhesion, integral molding or other methods.

[0112] Furthermore, the side wall of the second body part 51 facing the ink storage cavity 14 can be recessed to form a second mounting groove 54, and one end of the conical spring can abut in the second mounting groove 54. This can provide a positioning function for the connection between the conical spring and the support plate 5, and can also prevent the conical spring from shifting during deformation.

[0113] In some embodiments, the ink cartridge 100 further includes a sealing film disposed between the main body portion 16a and the cover portion 16b, and the sealing film and the deformable member 4 together enclose an air-filled cavity.

[0114] Specifically, the deformable part 4 is disposed within the main body 16a, and the deformable part 4 and the main body 16a together enclose and form the ink storage cavity 14. The sealing film is disposed on the end face of the main body 16a near and facing the cover part 16b, and the cover part 16b is then placed on the main body 16a. The deformable part 4 and the sealing film together enclose and form an inflation cavity. The cover part 16b is in contact with the sealing film to prevent deformation of the sealing film. This improves the sealing performance of the inflation cavity and the ink storage cavity 14, and facilitates the normal deformation of the deformable part 4.

[0115] In an imaging device, when the ink cartridge 100 is installed inside the imaging device, the ink cartridge 100 is directly connected to the print head 210, that is, the ink supply mechanism can directly deliver ink to the print head 210. As the ink in the ink storage chamber 14 is continuously consumed, a certain negative pressure is formed in the ink storage chamber 14, which can also draw air bubbles in the print head 210 into the ink cartridge 100, thereby improving the printing performance and quality of the imaging device.

[0116] In another imaging device, a secondary ink chamber (not shown in the figure) is also provided. The secondary ink chamber is connected between the ink supply mechanism and the print head 210. That is, the ink supply mechanism can first deliver ink to the secondary ink chamber, and when it is detected that the ink in the secondary ink chamber has reached a certain capacity, the ink in the secondary ink chamber is then delivered to the print head 210.

[0117] Furthermore, the ink storage chamber 14 contains gas, and the gas volume is greater than or equal to 4 ml.

[0118] Specifically, in the initial state, the ink storage chamber 14 contains a certain amount of ink and gas, and the total volume of ink and gas is equal to the initial volume of the ink storage chamber 14. When the ink in the ink storage chamber 14 is exhausted, the gas in the ink storage chamber 14 will be discharged into the secondary ink chamber. By detecting whether air bubbles appear in the secondary ink chamber, it can be used to remind the user whether the ink stored in the ink cartridge 100 is exhausted, thereby reminding the user to replace the ink cartridge 100.

[0119] The gas can be air or an inert gas, including but not limited to helium, neon, argon, krypton, xenon, radon, and nitrogen. The gas volume can be 4 ml, 4.5 ml, 5 ml, 5.5 ml, 6 ml, 6.5 ml, 7 ml, 7.5 ml, 8 ml, 8.5 ml, 9 ml, 9.5 ml, or 10 ml, and is not limited thereto. In this embodiment, the gas can be nitrogen, and the gas volume can be 5 ml.

[0120] Since the ink storage chamber 14 contains only a small amount of gas and is not connected to the outside atmosphere, when the gas is air, it can only undergo a limited oxidation reaction with the ink, and the ink will not clump, thus preventing the print head from clogging. When the gas is an inert gas, it will not undergo an oxidation reaction with the ink, and the ink will not clump, thus preventing the print head from clogging.

[0121] Please see Figure 4 A connecting channel 17 is provided through the rear end face 10f, through which the ink outlet 11 communicates with the ink storage chamber 14. The ink cartridge 100 also includes a sealing element 8, which is disposed on the rear end face 10f to seal the connecting channel 17 and prevent ink in the ink storage chamber 14 from leaking out of the connecting channel 17.

[0122] Specifically, after the user injects a certain amount of ink into the ink storage chamber 14, the user can inject a certain amount of gas into the ink storage chamber 14 through the connection channel 17, and then attach the seal 8 to the rear end face 10f to seal the connection channel 17.

[0123] It is understandable that the connecting channel 17 can also be located inside the housing 1, thus eliminating the need for an additional seal 8, reducing production costs, and improving assembly efficiency. The inflation port 12 can also adopt a structure similar to the aforementioned connecting channel 17 to communicate with the inflation chamber, as long as the inflation port 12 can communicate with the inflation chamber, it is not limited here.

[0124] Furthermore, the cartridge 1 is also provided with an ink filling port (not shown in the figure) that communicates with the ink storage chamber 14. Users can inject a certain amount of ink into the ink storage chamber 14 through the ink filling port, so that the ink cartridge 100 can be recycled and reused, reducing printing costs.

[0125] Please continue reading Figure 5 The ink cartridge 100 includes a valve assembly 7, which is disposed within the ink outlet 11 to seal the ink outlet 11.

[0126] Specifically, when the ink cartridge 100 is not installed in the imaging device, the valve assembly 7 can seal the ink outlet 11 to prevent ink in the ink storage chamber 14 from leaking from the ink outlet 11 during installation or transportation. When the ink cartridge 100 is installed in the imaging device, at least part of the ink supply mechanism is inserted into the ink outlet 11, and the ink supply mechanism can drive the valve assembly 7 to open the ink outlet 11, so that the ink in the ink storage chamber 14 can flow out from the ink outlet 11 and flow to the ink supply mechanism.

[0127] In some embodiments, the valve assembly 7 includes a mating member 71, a blocking member 72, and a returning member 73, wherein the mating member 71 is provided with an ink outlet channel (not shown in the figure) extending along the second direction (the negative direction of the X-axis), and the blocking member 72 is connected to the inner wall of the ink outlet 11 through the returning member 73.

[0128] Specifically, when the ink cartridge 100 is not installed in the imaging device, the sealing member 72 is in close contact with the mating member 71 to block the ink outlet channel, thus sealing the ink outlet 11. When the ink cartridge 100 is installed in the imaging device, the portion of the ink supply mechanism extending into the ink outlet 11 can push the sealing member 72 away from the mating member 71, causing the sealing member 72 to disengage from the mating member 71 and open the ink outlet channel, thus opening the ink outlet 11. At this time, the return member 73 is in a compressed state. When the ink cartridge 100 is removed from the imaging device again, the sealing member 72 moves to its initial position under the elastic action of the return member 73 and contacts the mating member 71 again, allowing the sealing member 72 to block the ink outlet channel again, thus sealing the ink outlet 11 again. The return member 73 can be any other elastic component such as a spring, tension spring, leaf spring, or rubber block, and is not limited here. In this embodiment, the return member 73 can be a spring.

[0129] In some embodiments, the valve assembly 7 includes a self-sealing element with a resilient opening. When the ink cartridge 100 is not installed in the imaging device, the resilient opening is closed to seal the ink outlet 11; when the ink cartridge 100 is installed in the imaging device, the portion of the ink supply mechanism extending into the ink outlet 11 can puncture the resilient opening to open the ink outlet 11.

[0130] It is understood that valve assembly 7 can also be any other valve structure that can be used to seal or open ink outlet 11, without limitation.

[0131] Please continue reading Figures 2 to 5 The ink cartridge 100 also includes a chip 2 and a mounting bracket 3. The chip 2 is mounted on the cartridge body 1 via the mounting bracket 3. When the ink cartridge 100 is installed in the imaging device, a contact mechanism (not shown in the figure) provided in the imaging device can contact the chip 2 to achieve electrical connection, thereby realizing electrical communication between the ink cartridge 100 and the imaging device.

[0132] Specifically, a recess 13 is provided on the cartridge 1 through the upper end face 10a, the left end face 10c, the front end face 10e and the rear end face 10f. The chip 2 is set in the recess 13 by the mounting bracket 3. This ensures that the presence of the chip 2 and the mounting bracket 3 does not increase the size of the ink cartridge 100, avoids interference between the chip 2 and / or the mounting bracket 3 and other components in the imaging device, and facilitates the insertion or removal of the ink cartridge 100.

[0133] It is understood that the recess 13 may penetrate only one end face of the housing 1; or, the recess 13 may penetrate both one end face of the housing 1 and one or more adjacent end faces; or, the housing 1 may not have a recess 13, and the chip 2 may be directly mounted on any end face of the housing 1 via the mounting bracket 3, without any limitation. For example, the recess 13 may penetrate only the upper end face 10a; or, the recess 13 may penetrate both the upper end face 10a and the right end face 10d; or, the chip 2 may be directly mounted on the upper end face 10a via the mounting bracket 3.

[0134] It should be noted that the chip 2 can also be directly placed in the recess 13 or on any end face of the housing 1 without the need for an additional mounting bracket 3.

[0135] Please see Figures 6 to 8 The mounting bracket 3 is detachably disposed within the recess 13, and the mounting bracket 3 includes abutment portion 31, insertion portion 32, and operation portion 33. The abutment portion 31 extends from the right side of the operation portion 33 along a second direction (negative direction of the X-axis), the insertion portion 32 extends from the lower side of the abutment portion 31 along a first direction (negative direction of the Z-axis), and the chip 2 is disposed on the operation portion 33.

[0136] Specifically, when the mounting bracket 3 is disposed within the recess 13, the insertion part 32 can be inserted into the insertion hole (not shown in the figure) of the recess 13, and the abutment part 31 can abut against the upper end surface 10a. The user can also hold the operating part 33 and apply a force in the opposite direction of the first direction (the positive direction of the Z-axis) so that the insertion part 32 can be pulled out from the insertion hole, thereby removing the mounting bracket 3.

[0137] Please continue reading Figure 6 and Figure 7 In some embodiments, the operation unit 33 includes a front sidewall 331a and a rear sidewall 331b that are opposite each other along a third direction (the negative direction of the Y-axis), and the chip 2 is detachably disposed on the front sidewall 331a.

[0138] Specifically, the front sidewall 331a is provided with a receiving groove 332, and the chip 2 is detachably disposed in the receiving groove 332. That is, the chip 2 can be installed in the receiving groove 332 along the second direction (the negative direction of the X-axis), or it can be removed from the receiving groove 332 along the opposite direction of the second direction (the positive direction of the X-axis). Multiple contacts (not shown in the figure) are provided on the surface of the chip 2 away from and opposite to the front sidewall 331a. The contact mechanism can contact these multiple contacts to achieve electrical connection.

[0139] It is understandable that the receiving groove 332 can also be provided on the rear side wall 331b. In this case, multiple contacts are provided on the surface of the chip 2 that is away from and opposite to the rear side wall 331b.

[0140] Please continue reading Figure 8 In some embodiments, the operating part 33 is provided with a mounting cavity 333 through the second direction (the negative direction of the X-axis), and the mounting cavity 333 has a front sidewall 331a and a rear sidewall 331b opposite to each other in the third direction (the negative direction of the Y-axis), and the chip 2 is disposed inside the front sidewall 331a or the rear sidewall 331b.

[0141] Specifically, when the ink cartridge 100 is installed in the imaging device, the contact mechanism can be inserted into the mounting cavity 333. The contact pins on the contact mechanism can contact the contacts on the chip 2 to achieve electrical connection, which avoids the contact mechanism from shaking or shifting and helps to improve the stability of the electrical connection between the contact mechanism and the chip 2.

[0142] A receiving groove 332 is provided on the inner side of the front sidewall 331a or the rear sidewall 331b, and the chip 2 is disposed in the receiving groove 332. When the receiving groove 332 is provided on the inner side of the front sidewall 331a, the surface of the chip 2 away from and facing away from the front sidewall 331a is provided with multiple contacts; when the receiving groove 332 is provided on the inner side of the rear sidewall 331b, the surface of the chip 2 away from and facing away from the rear sidewall 331b is provided with multiple contacts.

[0143] It is understandable that the receiving groove 332 may also be provided on the outside of the front sidewall 331a or the rear sidewall 331b.

[0144] It should be noted that the aforementioned two different types of mounting brackets 3 are detachably mounted on the cartridge body 1 so that the ink cartridge 100 presents two different types. That is, when the cartridge body 1 is provided with the aforementioned first type of mounting bracket 3, the ink cartridge 100 presents the first type, so that the ink cartridge 100 can be installed in the corresponding first type of imaging device; when the cartridge body 1 is provided with the aforementioned second type of mounting bracket 3, the ink cartridge 100 presents the second type, so that the ink cartridge 100 can be installed in the corresponding second type of imaging device.

[0145] Furthermore, an ink cartridge 100 can be selectively equipped with a mounting bracket 3 of any of the aforementioned structures, so that the ink cartridge 100 can selectively present either the first or the second type, thereby allowing the ink cartridge 100 to be installed in either the corresponding first type of imaging device or the corresponding second type of imaging device, thus improving the versatility of the ink cartridge 100.

[0146] Example 2

[0147] Please see Figure 13 and Figure 14 It has a structure that is basically the same as that of the ink cartridge 100 in Example 1, except that the elastic element 6 is an arc-shaped spring.

[0148] In some embodiments, the arc-shaped spring protrudes towards the support plate 5.

[0149] Specifically, the arc-shaped spring includes a first connecting portion 61, a second connecting portion 62, and an arc-shaped portion 63, with the arc-shaped portion 63 connecting between the first connecting portion 61 and the second connecting portion 62. The first connecting portion 61 and the second connecting portion 62 are respectively connected to the inner wall of the ink storage cavity 14 facing the deformable member 4. The arc-shaped portion 63 protrudes towards the support plate 5 and connects to the support plate 5. When the deformable member 4 deforms, it can drive the support plate 5 to move towards the inner wall of the ink storage cavity 14 facing the deformable member 4, allowing the support plate 5 to press the arc-shaped portion 63 to reduce its protrusion.

[0150] In other embodiments, the curved spring protrudes away from the support plate 5.

[0151] Specifically, the arc-shaped spring includes a first connecting part 61, a second connecting part 62, and an arc-shaped part 63, with the arc-shaped part 63 connected between the first connecting part 61 and the second connecting part 62. The first connecting part 61 and the second connecting part 62 are respectively connected to the deformable part 4. The arc-shaped part 63 protrudes in a direction away from the support plate 5, and the middle position of the arc-shaped part 63 is connected to the inner wall of the ink storage cavity 14 facing the deformable part 4.

[0152] Furthermore, the maximum distance between the arc-shaped spring and the inner wall of the ink storage cavity 14 facing the deformable part 4 in its natural state is greater than the distance between the two inner walls of the air filling cavity and the ink storage cavity 14 facing the deformable part 4.

[0153] Specifically, in the initial state, the arc-shaped part 63 is in a compressed state, and at this time, the volume of the inflation chamber is small. When the air supply mechanism 220 inflates the inflation port 12, the deformable part 4, under the action of air pressure, drives the support plate 5 to move towards the inner wall of the ink storage chamber 14 facing the deformable part 4, thereby further compressing the arc-shaped part 63. When the air supply mechanism 220 stops inflating the inflation port 12, the arc-shaped part 63 can release greater elastic potential energy, which is conducive to the gas in the inflation chamber being discharged from the inflation port 12, thereby helping to maintain a certain negative pressure in the ink storage chamber 14.

[0154] It should be noted that the support plate 5 can be connected to the arc-shaped spring piece by welding, adhesion, integral molding, threaded connection, plug-in connection, etc., and no limitation is made here.

[0155] Example 3

[0156] Please see Figure 15 The structure is basically the same as that of the ink cartridge 100 in Embodiment 1. The difference is that the actuation component includes a fixing plate 9. The fixing plate 9 and the support plate 5 apply force to the deformable member 4 through magnetic attraction, but the elastic member 6 as in Embodiment 1 or 2 is not provided.

[0157] Specifically, the deformable part 4 can be separated from the support plate 5, and the support plate 5 is located on the side of the deformable part 4 facing the ink storage cavity 14; or, the deformable part 4 can be connected to the support plate 5, that is, the support plate 5 can be disposed on the surface of the deformable part 4 facing the ink storage cavity 14. The fixing plate 9 is disposed on the inner wall of the inflation cavity facing the deformable part 4, and the support plate 5 and / or the fixing plate 9 can generate a magnetic field so that the fixing plate 9 can attract the support plate 5.

[0158] In some embodiments, the fixing plate 9 can be a magnetic plate, so that the fixing plate 9 can generate a magnetic field, and the support plate 5 can be a metal plate attracted by the fixing plate 9.

[0159] Specifically, the fixing plate 9 can be made of ferrite, AlNiCo alloy, Samarium Cobalt alloy, Neodymium Iron Boron magnet, or natural magnet, while the support plate 5 can be made of iron, cobalt, nickel, or any other metal that can be attracted by a magnetic field; no limitation is made here. In this embodiment, the fixing plate 9 can be made of natural magnet, and the support plate 5 can be made of iron.

[0160] It is understandable that the fixing plate 9 can be a metal plate and the support plate 5 can be a magnetic plate; or, both the fixing plate 9 and the support plate 5 can be magnetic plates.

[0161] In other embodiments, the fixing plate 9 can be an electromagnet, and the support plate 5 can be a metal plate or a magnetic plate attracted by the fixing plate 9.

[0162] Specifically, when the ink cartridge 100 is installed in the imaging device, the fixing plate 9 can be electrically connected to the imaging device, so that the fixing plate 9 can generate an electromagnetic field to attract the support plate 5.

[0163] In some other embodiments, the support plate 5 can be made of plastic or any other non-ferromagnetic material, the fixing plate 9 can be a metal plate, and a magnetic plate (not shown in the figure) can be fixedly disposed on the support plate 5.

[0164] In some other embodiments, the support plate 5 can be made of plastic or any other non-ferromagnetic material, the fixing plate 9 can be a magnetic plate or an electromagnet, and the support plate 5 can be provided with a metal plate or a magnetic plate.

[0165] It should be noted that the actuation component may also include both a fixed plate 9 and an elastic element 6. The structure of the elastic element 6 is the same as that in the aforementioned embodiment 1 or 2, and will not be described again here.

[0166] Example 4

[0167] Please see Figure 16 The structure is basically the same as that of the ink cartridge 100 in Embodiment 1. The difference is that the number of elastic members 6 can be one, and the elastic member 6 is suspended in the ink storage cavity 14. The elastic member 6 is not directly connected to the inner wall of the ink storage cavity 14 facing the deformable member 4.

[0168] Specifically, the actuation device includes an elastic element 6 disposed within the ink storage cavity 14, and at least a portion of the elastic element 6 directly or indirectly contacts the surface of the deformable element 4 facing the ink storage cavity 14. The ink storage cavity 14 has a first sidewall 141 and a second sidewall 142 opposite each other along a first direction (the negative direction of the Z-axis), and a third sidewall 143 and a fourth sidewall 144 opposite each other along a second direction (the negative direction of the X-axis).

[0169] In some embodiments, the elastic element 6 is connected between the third sidewall 143 and the fourth sidewall 144.

[0170] Please see Figures 17 to 19 The third sidewall 143 is provided with at least one first mounting post 145a that protrudes and extends in the opposite direction of the third third direction (the positive direction of the Y-axis), and the fourth sidewall 144 is provided with at least one second mounting post 145b that protrudes and extends in the opposite direction of the third third direction (the positive direction of the Y-axis), and the elastic member 6 is respectively sleeved on the outer periphery of the first mounting post 145a and the second mounting post 145b.

[0171] The number of the first mounting post 145a and / or the second mounting post 145b can be one or N, where N is a positive integer greater than 1. Preferably, the number of both the first mounting post 145a and the second mounting post 145b can be two.

[0172] Specifically, two first mounting posts 145a are spaced apart on the third sidewall 143 along a first direction (the negative direction of the Z-axis), and two second mounting posts 145b are also spaced apart on the fourth sidewall 144 along the first direction (the negative direction of the Z-axis). Preferably, the first mounting posts 145a and the second mounting posts 145b correspond one-to-one and are arranged opposite each other along a second direction (the negative direction of the X-axis).

[0173] It is understandable that the first mounting post 145a and the second mounting post 145b can also be arranged opposite each other along a direction that intersects the second direction (the negative direction of the X-axis); or, the number of first mounting posts 145a is greater than the number of second mounting posts 145b, and a portion of the first mounting posts 145a corresponds to a portion of the second mounting posts 145b; or, the number of first mounting posts 145a is less than the number of second mounting posts 145b, and a portion of the first mounting posts 145a corresponds to a portion of the second mounting posts 145b.

[0174] Please see Figure 20 and Figure 21 In its natural state, the elastic member 6 can be annular or rectangular in shape. When the elastic member 6 is fitted onto the outer periphery of the two first mounting posts 145a and the two second mounting posts 145b, the elastic member 6 can form a first contact portion 64a and a second contact portion 64b that are opposite each other along the first direction (the negative direction of the Z-axis) and a first extension portion 64c and a second extension portion 64d that are opposite each other along the second direction (the negative direction of the X-axis). The first contact portion 64a and the second contact portion 64b can be directly or indirectly connected to the deformable member 4, respectively.

[0175] In other embodiments, the elastic element 6 is connected between the first sidewall 141 and the second sidewall 142.

[0176] The first sidewall 141 is provided with at least one first mounting post 145a that protrudes and extends in the opposite direction of the third third direction (the positive direction of the Y-axis), and the second sidewall 142 is provided with at least one second mounting post 145b that protrudes and extends in the opposite direction of the third third direction (the positive direction of the Y-axis), and the elastic member 6 is respectively sleeved on the outer periphery of the first mounting post 145a and the second mounting post 145b.

[0177] The number of the first mounting post 145a and / or the second mounting post 145b can be one or N, where N is a positive integer greater than 1. Preferably, the number of both the first mounting post 145a and the second mounting post 145b can be two.

[0178] Specifically, two first mounting posts 145a are spaced apart on the first sidewall 141 along the second direction (the negative direction of the X-axis), and two second mounting posts 145b are also spaced apart on the second sidewall 142 along the second direction (the negative direction of the X-axis). Preferably, the first mounting posts 145a and the second mounting posts 145b correspond one-to-one and are arranged opposite each other along the first direction (the negative direction of the Z-axis).

[0179] It is understandable that the first mounting post 145a and the second mounting post 145b can also be arranged opposite each other along a direction that intersects the first direction (the negative direction of the Z-axis); or, the number of first mounting posts 145a is greater than the number of second mounting posts 145b, and some of the first mounting posts 145a correspond one-to-one with the second mounting posts 145b; or, the number of first mounting posts 145a is less than the number of second mounting posts 145b, and some of the first mounting posts 145a correspond one-to-one with the second mounting posts 145b.

[0180] In its natural state, the elastic member 6 can be ring-shaped or rectangular. When the elastic member 6 is fitted onto the outer periphery of the two first mounting posts 145a and the two second mounting posts 145b, the elastic member 6 can form a first contact portion 64a and a second contact portion 64b that are opposite each other along the second direction (the negative direction of the X-axis), and a first extension portion 64c and a second extension portion 64d that are opposite each other along the first direction (the negative direction of the Z-axis). The first contact portion 64a and the second contact portion 64b can be directly or indirectly connected to the deformable member 4, respectively.

[0181] In some other embodiments, the elastic element 6 is connected to the first sidewall 141, the second sidewall 142, the third sidewall 143 and the fourth sidewall 144 respectively.

[0182] The first sidewall 141 and the third sidewall 143 are each provided with at least one first mounting post 145a that protrudes and extends in the opposite direction of the third third direction (the positive direction of the Y-axis), and the second sidewall 142 and the fourth sidewall 144 are each provided with at least one second mounting post 145b that protrudes and extends in the opposite direction of the third third direction (the positive direction of the Y-axis), and the elastic member 6 is respectively sleeved on the outer periphery of the first mounting post 145a and the second mounting post 145b.

[0183] The number of first mounting posts 145a provided on the first sidewall 141 and / or the third sidewall 143 can be 1 or N, where N is a positive integer greater than 1; the number of second mounting posts 145b provided on the second sidewall 142 and / or the fourth sidewall 144 can be 1 or M, where M is a positive integer greater than 1. Preferably, the number of first mounting posts 145a provided on the first sidewall 141 and the third sidewall 143 is 1 each, and the number of second mounting posts 145b provided on the second sidewall 142 and the fourth sidewall 144 is 1 each.

[0184] Specifically, the first mounting post 145a provided on the first sidewall 141 and the second mounting post 145b provided on the second sidewall 142 are arranged opposite each other along the first direction (the negative direction of the Z-axis), and the first mounting post 145a provided on the third sidewall 143 and the second mounting post 145b provided on the fourth sidewall 144 are arranged opposite each other along the second direction (the negative direction of the X-axis).

[0185] It is understood that the first mounting post 145a provided on the first sidewall 141 and the second mounting post 145b provided on the second sidewall 142 can also be arranged opposite each other in a direction intersecting the first direction (the negative direction of the Z-axis); and / or, the first mounting post 145a provided on the third sidewall 143 and the second mounting post 145b provided on the fourth sidewall 144 can also be arranged opposite each other in a direction intersecting the second direction (the negative direction of the X-axis).

[0186] The elastic element 6 can be made of rubber, silicone, or any other elastic material. Preferably, the elastic element 6 can be made of rubber, and the elastic element 6 is ring-shaped in its natural state.

[0187] It should be noted that the elastic element 6 can be directly connected to any one or more of the first sidewall 141, second sidewall 142, third sidewall 143, or fourth sidewall 144 by means of adhesion or welding. In addition, the elastic element 6 can have a certain degree of hardness, so that it can form the first contact portion 64a, the second contact portion 64b, the first extension portion 64c, and the second extension portion 64d in its natural state.

[0188] It is understood that the first mounting post 145a and / or the second mounting post 145b can be disposed on the inner wall of the ink storage cavity 14 facing the deformable member 4.

[0189] In some embodiments, the elastic element 6 is in direct contact with the deformable element 4.

[0190] Specifically, the elastic element 6 can be separately disposed from the deformable element 4, and the elastic element 6 is located on the side of the deformable element 4 facing the ink storage cavity 14; or, the elastic element 6 can be connected to the deformable element 4, that is, at least a portion of the elastic element 6 is disposed on the surface of the deformable element 4 facing the ink storage cavity 14. During the deformation of the deformable element 4, the deformable element 4 can directly contact the elastic element 6.

[0191] In other embodiments, the elastic element 6 is in indirect contact with the deformable element 4.

[0192] Specifically, the actuation device also includes a support plate 5, and at least a portion of the elastic element 6 is connected to the support plate 5.

[0193] The support plate 5 can be separated from the deformable part 4, and the support plate 5 is located on the side of the deformable part 4 facing the ink storage cavity 14; or, the support plate 5 can be connected to the deformable part 4, that is, the support plate 5 is disposed on the surface of the deformable part 4 facing the ink storage cavity 14. During the deformation of the deformable part 4, the deformable part 4 can come into contact with the support plate 5, thereby realizing indirect contact between the elastic part 6 and the deformable part 4.

[0194] During the deformation of the deformable part 4, the elastic part 6 can apply a force to the support plate 5 to create a negative pressure in the ink storage cavity 14. The negative pressure is positively correlated with the force and / or the area of ​​the support plate 5.

[0195] The specific structure of the support plate 5 is similar to that in the aforementioned embodiment 1, and will not be described again here.

[0196] It should be noted that the actuation device may also include a fixed plate 9 and an elastic element 6. The structure of the fixed plate 9 is the same as that in the aforementioned embodiment 3, and will not be described again here.

[0197] Example 5

[0198] Please see Figure 22 The structure is basically the same as that of the ink cartridge 100 in Example 4, except that the number of elastic members 6 can be multiple (greater than or equal to 2).

[0199] In some embodiments, any one of the elastic elements 6 is connected between the third sidewall 143 and the fourth sidewall 144.

[0200] Please continue reading Figure 22The third sidewall 143 is provided with at least two first mounting posts 145a that protrude and extend in the opposite direction of the third third direction (the positive direction of the Y-axis), and the fourth sidewall 144 is provided with at least two second mounting posts 145b that protrude and extend in the opposite direction of the third third direction (the positive direction of the Y-axis).

[0201] In one feasible implementation, the number of first mounting posts 145a and second mounting posts 145b is the same, and one first mounting post 145a and one second mounting post 145b correspond to form a mounting structure, that is, at least two mounting structures are provided on the ink cartridge 100, and the number of elastic members 6 is the same as the number of mounting structures.

[0202] The number of the first mounting post 145a and the second mounting post 145b can be 2 or P, where P is a positive integer greater than 2. Preferably, the number of the first mounting post 145a and the second mounting post 145b can both be 2, and the number of elastic elements 6 can correspondingly be 2.

[0203] Specifically, two first mounting posts 145a are spaced apart on the third sidewall 143 along a first direction (the negative direction of the Z-axis), and two second mounting posts 145b are also spaced apart on the fourth sidewall 144 along the first direction (the negative direction of the Z-axis). Preferably, the first mounting posts 145a and the second mounting posts 145b correspond one-to-one and are arranged opposite each other along a second direction (the negative direction of the X-axis).

[0204] One end of the first elastic element 6 is fitted around the outer periphery of the first first mounting post 145a, and the other end of the first elastic element 6 is fitted around the outer periphery of the corresponding first second mounting post 145b. One end of the second elastic element 6 is fitted around the outer periphery of the second first mounting post 145a, and the other end of the second elastic element 6 is fitted around the outer periphery of the second second mounting post 145b.

[0205] It is understandable that the first mounting post 145a and the second mounting post 145b can also be set relative to each other in a direction that intersects with the second direction (the negative direction of the X-axis).

[0206] In another possible implementation, the number of first mounting posts 145a differs from the number of second mounting posts 145b. At least a portion of the first mounting posts 145a corresponds to one second mounting post 145b to form a mounting structure; or, at least a portion of the second mounting posts 145b corresponds to one first mounting post 145a to form a mounting structure.

[0207] For example, there can be one first mounting post 145a, and multiple second mounting posts 145b (greater than or equal to two). The number of elastic elements 6 is the same as the number of second mounting posts 145b. One end of all elastic elements 6 is fitted onto the outer periphery of the first mounting post 145a, and the other end of any elastic element 6 is fitted onto the outer periphery of a second mounting post 145b.

[0208] Alternatively, there can be multiple first mounting posts 145a (greater than or equal to 2), and one second mounting post 145b. The number of elastic elements 6 is the same as the number of first mounting posts 145a. One end of all elastic elements 6 is fitted onto the outer periphery of the second mounting post 145b, wherein the other end of any elastic element 6 is fitted onto the outer periphery of a first mounting post 145a.

[0209] In other embodiments, any one of the elastic elements 6 is connected between the first sidewall 141 and the second sidewall 142.

[0210] The first sidewall 141 is provided with at least two first mounting posts 145a that protrude and extend in the opposite direction of the third third direction (the positive direction of the Y-axis), and the second sidewall 142 is provided with at least two second mounting posts 145b that protrude and extend in the opposite direction of the third third direction (the positive direction of the Y-axis).

[0211] The numerical correspondence between the first mounting post 145a, the second mounting post 145b, and the elastic element 6 is similar to that in the previous embodiment, and will not be repeated here.

[0212] It should be noted that the first sidewall 141 and the third sidewall 143 may each be provided with at least one first mounting post 145a, and the second sidewall 142 and the fourth sidewall 144 may each be provided with at least one second mounting post 145b, so that a portion of the elastic member 6 is connected between the first sidewall 141 and the second sidewall 142, and another portion of the elastic member 6 is connected between the third sidewall 143 and the fourth sidewall 144.

[0213] It is understood that the first mounting post 145a and / or the second mounting post 145b can be disposed on the inner wall of the ink storage cavity 14 facing the deformable member 4.

[0214] Compared with the prior art, in the ink cartridge 100 provided by the present invention, when the ink cartridge 100 is installed in the imaging device and enters the printing state, the imaging device first inflates the inflation chamber through the inflation port 12. The deformable part 4 deforms to reduce the volume of the ink storage chamber 14, causing the ink in the ink storage chamber 14 to be squeezed out. Then the imaging device stops inflating, and the deformable part 4 shrinks and deforms to a certain extent under the action of the actuation device, so that a certain negative pressure is formed in the ink storage chamber 14, preventing the ink in the ink storage chamber 14 from flowing out of the ink outlet 11 after the printing work stops, thus preventing ink leakage. Compared with existing ink cartridges, since the ink storage chamber 14 is not connected to the outside atmosphere, the ink will not be oxidized by the outside air and clump during the use of the ink cartridge 100, thereby avoiding the problem of clogging of the print head 210 of the imaging device. In addition, the ink in the ink storage chamber 14 can be squeezed out by the deformation of the deformable part 4, and there is no need to set an additional air control mechanism in the ink storage chamber 14, which simplifies the structure of the ink cartridge 100 and improves the assembly efficiency.

[0215] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. An ink cartridge, characterized in that, Includes the housing, actuator, and deformable parts; The box body is provided with a receiving cavity, and the deformable part is disposed in the receiving cavity to divide the receiving cavity into an air filling cavity and an ink storage cavity. The outer side wall of the box body is provided with an ink outlet and an air filling port, wherein the ink outlet is connected to the ink storage cavity and the air filling port is connected to the air filling cavity. The actuating device is disposed in the receiving cavity and is in contact with the deformable part. During the deformation of the deformable part, the actuating device can apply a force along the thickness direction of the box to the deformable part. The actuation device includes a support plate and an actuation component, wherein the support plate is in contact with the deformable part, the support plate is provided with a through hole, and the ratio between the bottom area of ​​the support plate and the bottom area of ​​the ink storage cavity is greater than or equal to 30%. During the deformation of the deformable part, the actuation component can apply the force to the support plate to create a negative pressure in the ink storage cavity, and the negative pressure is positively correlated with the force and / or the area of ​​the support plate. The actuation component includes an elastic element; The support plate is located on the side of the deformable member facing the ink storage cavity, and the elastic member is disposed between the support plate and the inner wall of the ink storage cavity facing the deformable member; The elastic element is a conical spring, and the outer diameter of the conical spring gradually increases in the direction close to the deformable element; When the conical spring is in a compressed state, at least a portion of the conical spring can extend into the clearance hole.

2. The ink cartridge according to claim 1, characterized in that, The actuation device includes at least one elastic element disposed within the ink storage cavity, and at least a portion of the elastic element is in direct or indirect contact with the surface of the deformable element facing the ink storage cavity.

3. The ink cartridge according to claim 2, characterized in that, The ink storage cavity has a first sidewall and a second sidewall opposite to each other along a first direction, and a third sidewall and a fourth sidewall opposite to each other along a second direction, wherein the first direction is perpendicular to the second direction; The elastic element is connected between the first sidewall and the second sidewall; and / or, the elastic element is connected between the third sidewall and the fourth sidewall.

4. The ink cartridge according to claim 1, characterized in that, The box body includes a main body and a cover, which together enclose the receiving cavity; The deformable component is disposed within the main body, and the deformable component and the main body together enclose the ink storage cavity; The ink cartridge also includes a sealing film, which is disposed between the main body and the cover, and the sealing film and the deformable member together form the inflation cavity.

5. The ink cartridge according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The ink storage chamber contains gas, and the volume of the gas is greater than or equal to 4 ml.

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