Consumable box

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of printing. The invention provides a consumable box which is detachably installed in an installation part of a printer, the consumable box comprises a body and an adjusting piece, an ink storage container used for storing ink and a variable volume cavity are arranged in the body, a communicating channel is further arranged in the body, and the adjusting piece is arranged in the communicating channel. The communicating channel is located between the variable volume cavity and the interior of the ink storage container, one end of the communicating channel extends into the variable volume cavity and is provided with an outlet part, and the outlet part comprises a bearing part and at least two connecting arms; the at least two connecting arms are connected between the inner wall surface of the communicating channel and the bearing part; and the adjusting piece is movably connected to the bearing part. The use stability of the valve component can be improved, so that the sealing performance between the valve component and the outlet part is improved, and the technical problem that false detection is easily caused when ink in the consumable box is not exhausted is solved.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to the Chinese patent application filed with the State Intellectual Property Office on December 29, 2023, with application number 202323658081.8 and application name “Consumable Box”, all contents of which are incorporated by reference in this application. Technical Field

[0002] The invention relates to the field of printing technology, and in particular to a consumables box. Background Art

[0003] The consumables box is a component in the printer used to store printing consumables and is one of the important components of the printer. The consumables box can be detachably installed in the installation part of the printer, and ink is provided to the installation part of the printer through the consumables box, so that the printer can achieve normal printing work.

[0004] In the related art, the consumable box includes an ink storage tank and a variable volume chamber for storing ink, a connecting channel is provided between the variable volume chamber and the ink storage tank, the connecting channel has an outlet portion at one end close to the variable volume chamber, a plurality of protrusions are provided at intervals on the wall surface close to one end of the variable volume chamber, a valve component is movably provided at the outlet portion, a part of the valve component abuts against the plurality of protrusions, so that the valve component is installed at the outlet portion. However, during the production and processing, it is impossible to ensure that the length of each protrusion extending along the wall surface is consistent, resulting in different abutment forces of the protrusions on the valve component, which in turn leads to poor stability in the use of the valve component. The valve component is easy to fall off from the outlet portion, which will affect the sealing between the valve component and the outlet portion. When the ink in the ink storage tank is not exhausted, it is easy to cause the ink in the variable volume chamber to flow back into the ink storage tank. Since the detection unit in the printer does not detect that there is enough ink supplied to the variable volume chamber of the printer, the detection unit still mistakenly prompts that the ink in the consumable box is exhausted even if there is ink in the consumable box, which causes the consumable box to be unable to be used normally due to false detection.

[0005] Therefore, there is an urgent need to improve the stability of the use of valve components, so as to solve the technical problem of prone to false detection. Summary of the invention

[0006] An embodiment of the present invention provides a consumable box to improve the stability of the use of the valve component, thereby improving the sealing between the valve component and the outlet portion, and solving the technical problem of false detection that is easily caused when the ink in the consumable box is not exhausted.

[0007] An embodiment of the present invention provides a consumables box, which is detachably installed in a mounting portion of a printer, and the consumables box includes:

[0008] A body, wherein the body has an ink storage tank and a variable volume cavity for storing ink, and the body also has a communication channel, wherein the communication channel is located between the variable volume cavity and the inside of the ink storage tank, and one end of the communication channel extends into the variable volume cavity and is provided with an outlet, wherein the outlet includes a receiving portion and at least two connecting arms, wherein the at least two connecting arms are connected between the inner wall surface of the communication channel and the receiving portion;

[0009] An adjusting member is movably connected to the receiving portion.

[0010] A consumable box provided by an embodiment of the present invention has an outlet portion including a receiving portion and at least two connecting arms, wherein the at least two connecting arms are connected between the inner wall surface of a connecting channel and the receiving portion, that is, the connecting arms are used to connect the receiving portion to the inner wall of the connecting channel, and the connecting arms can enhance the fixing strength of the receiving portion, so that the abutment force between the adjusting member and the receiving portion is more balanced around the adjusting member, ensuring that the adjusting member can maintain a relatively stable opening value, so as to improve the tightness between the adjusting member and the outlet portion, and prevent the ink in the variable volume chamber from flowing back to the ink storage tank due to poor sealing between the adjusting member and the outlet portion, thereby avoiding the problem of false detection caused by the detection unit in the printer failing to detect that sufficient ink is supplied to the variable volume chamber.

[0011] In one possible implementation, one end of the connecting arm is connected to the inner wall surface of the connecting channel, and the other end of the connecting arm extends obliquely in the connecting channel in a direction away from the variable volume chamber and is connected to the receiving portion, and at least a portion of the receiving portion is located in the connecting channel.

[0012] In a possible implementation, the connecting arms are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the connecting channel, and a hollow portion for ink to pass through is provided between two adjacent connecting arms.

[0013] In a possible implementation, the angles between two adjacent connecting arms are equal, and the flow areas of the hollow portions are consistent;

[0014] The hollow portion has a first hole wall away from the center position of the connecting channel, and the hollow portion also has a second hole wall close to the center position of the connecting channel. The first hole wall and the second hole wall both extend along the circumference of the connecting channel, and the arc length of the second hole wall is smaller than the arc length of the first hole wall.

[0015] In a possible implementation, the receiving portion has a through portion inside, the adjusting member includes at least a head portion and a rod portion connected to the head portion, the rod portion is movably disposed in the through portion, and the head portion movably abuts against the outlet portion;

[0016] Along the axial direction of the rod portion, the projection of the connecting arm is within the projection range of the head portion.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the outlet portion also includes a first circumferential wall, the head portion includes at least a sealing portion and a base end portion, the sealing portion includes a first sealing segment, the first sealing segment is connected to the edge of the base end portion, and the first sealing segment abuts against the first circumferential wall.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the main body includes a connecting member and a flexible member, the connecting member is connected to the ink storage tank, the connecting member has a tubular column portion extending to the outside of the ink storage tank, the tubular column portion and the flexible member together form the variable volume cavity, and the connecting channel is located in the connecting member.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the area of ​​the first circumferential wall that contacts the sealing portion is a sealing area, the sealing portion has a center line and a deformation line, the center line is perpendicular to the sealing area, and the angle between the deformation line and the center line increases as the distance between the flexible member and the ink storage tank decreases.

[0020] In a possible implementation, the angle between the deformation line and the center line is 0-45°.

[0021] In a possible implementation, the sealing portion further includes a second sealing segment, the second sealing segment is connected to an end of the first sealing segment opposite to the base end portion, and a cavity is defined between the second sealing segment and the first sealing segment, and an opening of the cavity faces away from the outlet portion;

[0022] The sealing portion has a cross-section that is perpendicular to the plane where the base end portion is located. In the cross-section of the sealing portion, a line connecting the center of a connection between the undeformed second sealing segment and the first sealing segment and the center of the cavity forms the center line, and a line connecting the center of an area where the deformed first sealing segment contacts the first peripheral wall and the center of the cavity forms the deformation line.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the main body also includes a stopper, the end of the tube column facing away from the ink storage tank is a mounting end face, a mounting groove is provided in the mounting end face, a leak-proof portion is provided at the edge of the flexible member, the leak-proof portion is embedded in the mounting groove, the stopper is detachably connected to the mounting end face, and the stopper and the mounting end face jointly squeeze the leak-proof portion.

[0024] In a possible implementation, the connecting member includes a fixedly connected connecting body and a supporting portion, the supporting portion is located inside the ink storage tank, the supporting portion includes an arm portion and an arc portion, and the arm portion is connected between the connecting body and the arc portion;

[0025] The arm portion includes a plurality of support plates connected to each other, at least one side of each support plate is provided with a plurality of first protrusions, the first protrusions provided on two adjacent support plates are arranged alternately, and a first space is formed between two adjacent first protrusions in the extension direction of the support plate;

[0026] A plurality of second protrusions are arranged on the arc-shaped portion in an interval manner, and a second space is formed between two adjacent second protrusions.

[0027] A consumable box provided by an embodiment of the present invention does not need to process a plurality of protrusions at intervals on the outlet portion, thereby avoiding the phenomenon in the prior art of uneven height of the protrusions or incomplete protrusions due to factors such as processing technology and high defective rate, thereby preventing the printer from mistakenly prompting that the ink is exhausted when the ink in the ink reservoir is not exhausted, or preventing the adjustment part from escaping from the outlet portion, thereby reducing the defective rate in the production and processing process of the consumable box and the failure rate in the use of the consumable box, and improving the quality of the consumable box and the user experience.

[0028] An embodiment of the present invention provides a consumable box. When the ink in the ink storage tank is exhausted and the ink in the variable volume chamber is consumed, the sealing part is constructed so that the contact area with the first peripheral wall increases as the distance between the flexible part and the ink storage tank decreases, so as to improve the sealing between the adjusting part and the outlet part.

[0029] An embodiment of the present invention provides a consumable box, in which an adjusting piece is arranged on the outlet portion of a connecting channel. The contact area between the sealing portion of the adjusting piece and the first peripheral wall of the outlet portion increases as the distance between the flexible piece and the ink storage tank decreases, thereby improving the sealing performance between the adjusting piece and the outlet portion, thereby preventing the ink in the variable volume chamber from flowing back into the ink storage tank, thereby preventing the ink in the variable volume chamber from suddenly changing, causing the pressure inside the variable volume chamber to suddenly change, and causing the detection rod abutting against the flexible piece to suddenly move to the middle and upper part of the variable volume chamber, thereby causing the problem that the ink in the consumable box is not actually exhausted but the detection unit in the printer prompts that the ink in the consumable box is exhausted. The solution provided by the present application can improve the detection accuracy of the printer, save user usage costs, avoid unnecessary waste, and ensure the normal use of the consumable box. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] 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.

[0031] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a consumables box provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 2 An exploded view of a consumables box provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 3 A state diagram of the initial contact between the consumable box and the detection rod provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 4 A state diagram of a consumables box provided in an embodiment of the present invention after the flexible member is abutted by the detection rod, causing the flexible member to move into the variable volume chamber;

[0035] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a partial structure of a consumables box provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 6 for Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of section AA;

[0037] Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of an adjusting member and a connecting member of a consumables box provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of an adjusting member of a consumables box provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view of an adjusting member of a consumables box provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Fig.10 A schematic diagram of a consumables box provided in an embodiment of the present invention with the shell component and ink storage tank removed;

[0041] Fig.11 A partial structural cross-sectional view of a consumables box provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Fig.12 Another partial cross-sectional view of the consumables box provided by the embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Fig.13 A cross-sectional view of a connector of a consumables box provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Fig.14 for Fig.13 A schematic diagram of the structure at B;

[0045] Fig.15 A partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of a consumables box provided in an embodiment of the present invention when not installed in the installation portion of a printer;

[0046] Fig.16 for Fig.15 An enlarged schematic diagram of C in FIG.

[0047] Fig.17 A schematic diagram of a consumable box provided in an embodiment of the present invention being installed in a mounting portion of a printer and consuming ink in an ink storage tank;

[0048] Fig.18 for Fig.17 An enlarged schematic diagram of D;

[0049] Fig.19 A schematic diagram of a first state in which the consumables box provided in an embodiment of the present invention is installed in a mounting portion of a printer and the ink in the ink storage tank is exhausted;

[0050] Fig. 20 for Fig.19 An enlarged schematic diagram of point E;

[0051] Fig.21 A schematic diagram of a second state in which the consumables box provided by an embodiment of the present invention is installed in the installation part of the printer and the ink in the ink storage tank is exhausted;

[0052] Fig. 22 for Fig.21 An enlarged schematic diagram of point F;

[0053] Fig.23 A cross-sectional view of another consumables box provided by an embodiment of the present invention

[0054] Fig.24 An exploded view of a shell assembly of a consumables box provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] Fig.25 A schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of another adjusting member of the consumables box provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0056] Fig.26 for Fig.25 A cross-sectional view of the adjusting member in FIG.

[0057] Description of reference numerals:

[0058] 10- ink storage tank;

[0059] 20-connecting member; 201-variable volume chamber; 202-filling hole; 203-ink outlet channel; 2031-ink outlet port; 2032-ink inlet port; 204-first positioning protrusion; 205-reinforcement rib; 206-third circumferential protrusion; 21-connecting channel; 211-first peripheral wall; 212-second peripheral wall; 213-outer step platform; 2131-top surface; 2132-inner side surface; 2133-outer side surface; 214-first inner step platform; 215-second inner step platform; 216-clamping platform; 22-connecting body; 23-supporting part; 231-arm; 2311-supporting plate; 2312-first protrusion; 2313-first space; 232-arc-shaped part; 2321-second protrusion; 2322-second space;

[0060] 24- receiving portion; 241- through portion; 25- connecting arm; 26- hollow portion; 261- first hole wall; 262- second hole wall; 27- pipe column portion; 271- mounting groove; 272- mounting end surface; 273- recessed portion; 274- clamping protrusion;

[0061] 30-flexible member; 31-second positioning protrusion; 32-leakage-proof part;

[0062] 40-adjusting member; 41-sealing portion; 4101-center line; 4102-deformation line; 411-first sealing section; 412-second sealing section; 413-cavity; 414-cross section; 42-base end; 43-extension portion; 44-boss; 45-head; 46-rod; 461-neck;

[0063] 51-first shell; 511-first circumferential protrusion; 512-first through hole; 513-second through hole; 514-third through hole; 52-second shell; 521-first circumferential groove; 522-second circumferential groove; 523-third circumferential groove; 53-third shell; 531-second circumferential protrusion; 532-gripping surface;

[0064] 60-elastic member;

[0065] 70-stopper; 71-clip buckle;

[0066] 100-Detection rod. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] The printer can spray ink onto paper to form the text or pattern to be printed. In the related art, the connecting channel connecting the ink storage tank of the consumable box and the variable volume chamber has an outlet at one end facing the variable volume chamber, and a plurality of protrusions are arranged on the wall of the outlet in an interval manner. However, during the production and processing, due to the influence of the processing technology and the high defect rate, it is impossible to achieve the same length dimension of each protrusion extension, resulting in an unbalanced abutment force between the valve component movably arranged in the connecting channel and the plurality of protrusions, and further resulting in an unstable opening value of the valve component. In particular, when the ink in the ink storage tank is exhausted, the valve component and the outlet are poorly sealed due to the unstable opening value of the valve component. For example, one side of the valve component can be stably abutted with the outlet to be sealed, but a gap is formed between the other side of the valve component and the outlet for ink dripping, which will cause the ink temporarily stored in the variable volume chamber to flow back into the ink storage tank.

[0073] In addition, during the production and processing process, some protrusions may be missing, causing the valve component to lack a certain abutment force. During the process of supplying ink from the ink storage tank to the variable volume chamber, the impact force of the ink may be too great, causing the valve component to fall off from the outlet, affecting the normal use of the consumable box, causing inconvenience to the user, and a poor user experience.

[0074] In view of this, the present invention provides a consumable box, which makes the contact force between the adjusting part and the receiving part more balanced around the adjusting part, ensuring that the adjusting part can maintain a relatively stable opening value, so as to improve the tightness between the adjusting part and the outlet part, and solve the problem that after the ink in the ink storage tank is exhausted, the ink in the variable volume chamber flows back to the ink storage tank due to poor sealing between the adjusting part and the outlet part. It can also improve the detection accuracy of the printer, save users' use costs, avoid unnecessary waste, and ensure the normal use of the consumable box.

[0075] The consumables box provided in the embodiment of the present invention is described in detail below in conjunction with specific embodiments.

[0076] An embodiment of the present invention provides a consumables box, which can be detachably installed in the installation part of the printer, referring to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the consumable box includes: a body and an adjusting member 40, wherein the body has an ink storage tank 10 and a variable volume cavity 201 for storing ink, and the body also has a connecting channel 21, wherein the connecting channel 21 is located between the variable volume cavity 201 and the inside of the ink storage tank 10, and the connecting channel 21 connects the variable volume cavity 201 with the inside of the ink storage tank 10, and the adjusting member 40 is used for adjusting the ink storage tank 10. Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, one end of the communication channel 21 extends into the variable volume chamber 201 and is provided with an outlet portion, the outlet portion includes a receiving portion 24 and at least two connecting arms 25, at least two connecting arms 25 are connected between the inner wall surface of the communication channel 21 and the receiving portion 24; the adjusting member 40 is movably connected to the receiving portion 24. The valve component is the adjusting member 40.

[0077] A consumable box provided by an embodiment of the present invention comprises an outlet portion including a receiving portion 24 and at least two connecting arms 25, wherein the at least two connecting arms 25 are connected between the inner wall surface of the connecting channel 21 and the receiving portion 24, that is, the connecting arms 25 are used to connect the receiving portion 24 to the inner wall of the connecting channel 21, and the connecting arms 25 can enhance the fixing strength of the receiving portion 24, so that the abutment force between the adjusting member 40 and the receiving portion 24 is more balanced around the adjusting member 40, ensuring that the adjusting member 40 can maintain a relatively stable opening value, so as to improve the sealing effect between the adjusting member 40 and the outlet portion, and prevent the problem that after the ink in the ink storage tank is exhausted, the ink in the variable volume chamber 201 flows back to the ink storage tank 10 due to poor sealing between the adjusting member 40 and the outlet portion, thereby avoiding the problem that the detection unit in the printer fails to detect that there is enough ink supplied to the variable volume chamber 201, resulting in false detection.

[0078] A consumable box provided by an embodiment of the present invention does not need to process a plurality of protrusions at intervals on the outlet portion, thereby avoiding the phenomenon in the prior art of uneven height of the protrusions or incomplete protrusions due to factors such as processing technology and high defective rate, thereby preventing the printer from mistakenly prompting that the ink is exhausted when the ink in the ink storage tank is not exhausted, or preventing the adjustment member 40 from escaping from the outlet portion, thereby reducing the defective rate in the production and processing process of the consumable box and the failure rate in the use of the consumable box, and improving the quality of the consumable box and the user experience.

[0079] In order to better illustrate the consumable box assembly, a coordinate system is established: the width direction of the consumable box is the X-axis direction, the length direction of the consumable box is the Y-axis direction, and the height direction of the consumable box is the Z-axis direction, wherein the X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis are perpendicular to each other.

[0080] In a possible implementation, the ink storage container 10 is made of a flexible material, and the ink storage container 10 is used to store ink. The ink storage container 10 may be made of a rubber material, for example.

[0081] In one possible implementation, reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, one end of the connecting arm 25 is connected to the inner wall surface of the connecting channel 21, and the other end of the connecting arm 25 extends obliquely in the connecting channel 21 in a direction away from the variable volume chamber 201, and is connected to the receiving portion 24, and at least a portion of the receiving portion 24 is located in the connecting channel 21.

[0082] The connecting arm 25 is inclined, and there is an acute angle between the extension direction of the connecting arm 25 and the central axis of the connecting channel 21. While the connecting arm 25 extends toward the central axis of the connecting channel 21, it also extends in a direction away from the variable volume chamber 201. The connecting arm 25 is inclined inside the connecting channel 21.

[0083] refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the receiving portion 24 is arranged at an angle, and the receiving portion 24 is recessed in a direction away from the variable volume chamber 201 to form a sinking groove. During the installation of the adjusting member 40, the receiving portion 24 can guide the adjusting member 40. If the receiving portion 24 and the outlet portion are flush with each other, that is, there is no sinking groove between the receiving portion 24 and the variable volume chamber 201, when the adjusting member 40 is installed, the extension portion 43 may be blocked at the position of the through portion 241 of the receiving portion 24, which increases the difficulty of the extension portion 43 entering the through portion 241 inside the receiving portion 24, which is not conducive to the installation of the adjusting member 40.

[0084] In one possible implementation, the connecting arms 25 are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the connecting channel 21, and a hollow portion 26 for ink to pass through is provided between two adjacent connecting arms 25; the angles between two adjacent connecting arms 25 are equal, and the flow areas of the hollow portions 26 are consistent.

[0085] The hollow portion 26 is a through hole. The connecting arms 25 are arranged at circumferential intervals along the connecting channel 21, and the angles between two adjacent connecting arms 25 are consistent, so that the distribution of the hollow portions 26 is more uniform, and the forces between the various connecting positions between the connecting arms 25 and the receiving portion 24 are more balanced, thereby improving the mechanical strength of the receiving portion 24.

[0086] In a possible implementation, the hollow portion 26 has a first hole wall 261 away from the center of the connecting channel 21, and the hollow portion 26 also has a second hole wall 262 close to the center of the connecting channel 21. The first hole wall 261 and the second hole wall 262 both extend along the circumference of the connecting channel 21, and the arc length of the second hole wall 262 is smaller than the arc length of the first hole wall 261. Such a structure is conducive to increasing the flow area of ​​the hollow portion 26, ensuring that more ink is filled from the ink storage 10 into the variable volume cavity 201, improving the filling efficiency of the ink in the variable volume cavity 201, ensuring the smooth progress of the printing process, and avoiding the situation of printing disconnection or printing interruption.

[0087] In one possible implementation, reference Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, the receiving portion 24 has a through portion 241 inside, and the adjusting member 40 includes at least a head 45 and a rod 46 connected to the head 45, the rod 46 is movably arranged in the through portion 241, and the head 45 is movably abutted against the outlet portion. The adjusting member 40 can be deformed, and the sealing state between the adjusting member 40 and the outlet portion can be achieved through the elastic deformation of the head 45.

[0088] In a possible implementation, the stem portion 46 of the head portion 45 may be an integrally connected unit.

[0089] In one possible implementation, reference Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, at least two connecting arms 25 are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the receiving portion 24, and a hollow portion 26 for ink to pass through is provided between two adjacent connecting arms 25; along the axial direction of the rod portion 46, the projection of the connecting arm 25 is within the projection range of the head portion 45. The hollow portion 26 is used to allow ink to flow between the inside of the ink storage container 10 and the variable volume chamber 201, and the hollow portion 26 is sealed by the movement of the adjusting member 40 in the through portion 241.

[0090] In one possible implementation, the receiving portion 24 may be in the shape of a conical ring, and the side of the receiving portion 24 facing the variable volume chamber 201 is a conical surface recessed toward the interior of the connecting channel 21. Of course, in other possible implementations, the receiving portion 24 may also be in the shape of a circular ring, and the side of the receiving portion 24 facing the variable volume chamber 201 is a plane.

[0091] In one possible implementation, reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the number of the connecting arms 25 can be two, and the two connecting arms 25 are evenly distributed along the circumference of the receiving portion 24 at the edge of the receiving portion 24. Of course, the number of the connecting arms 25 can also be three or four, and the three or four connecting arms 25 are evenly distributed along the circumference of the receiving portion 24 at the edge of the receiving portion 24, so that the flow area of ​​the hollow portion 26 is consistent. When the ink stored in the ink storage tank 10 flows to the variable volume cavity 201, the flow through each hollow portion 26 is more uniform, thereby improving the balance of the force on the head 45, which helps to prevent the problem of the adjustment member 40 being loose.

[0092] In one possible implementation, reference Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Fig.10 As shown, the main body includes a connecting member 20 and a flexible member 30. The connecting member 20 is connected to the ink storage tank 10. The connecting member 20 has a tubular column portion 27 extending to the outside of the ink storage tank 10. The tubular column portion 27 and the flexible member 30 together form a variable volume cavity 201. The connecting channel 21 is located in the connecting member 20.

[0093] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the connecting member 20 has a filling hole 202 and an ink discharge portion, the ink discharge portion is connected to the variable volume chamber 201, and the filling hole 202 is connected to the ink storage container 10. Figure 5 and Fig.11 As shown, the ink discharge portion includes an ink outlet channel 203 , one end of the ink outlet channel 203 has an ink outlet port 2031 , and the other end of the ink outlet channel 203 has an ink inlet port 2032 , and the ink inlet port 2032 is located in the variable volume chamber 201 .

[0094] When the consumable box is not installed in the installation part of the printer, the ink storage 10 and the variable volume chamber 201 are filled with ink, and a sealing film is provided on the ink outlet 2031 to prevent the ink in the consumable box from leaking from the ink outlet 2031; when the consumable box is installed in the installation part of the printer, the ink supply mechanism of the printer docks with the ink outlet 2031 and punctures the sealing film, and the ink supply mechanism applies suction force to the ink outlet 2031, so that the ink in the consumable box flows to the ink supply mechanism. When the consumable box needs to be supplemented with ink, ink is filled into the ink storage 10 through the filling hole 202.

[0095] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the connecting member 20 is located between the ink storage container 10 and the flexible member 30 in the length direction of the consumable box.

[0096] refer to Figure 3 , Fig.11 and Fig.12 As shown, the body further includes an elastic member 60, which is disposed in the variable volume cavity 201. The side of the flexible member 30 facing the variable volume cavity 201 has a second positioning protrusion 31. One end of the elastic member 60 is sleeved on the first positioning protrusion 204, and the other end is sleeved on the second positioning protrusion, thereby improving the stability of the installation of the elastic member 60. The elastic member 60 is used to improve the elastic reset ability of the flexible member 30 when the flexible member 30 is deformed by the abutment of the detection rod 100 provided in the printer.

[0097] In a possible implementation, the elastic member 60 may be, for example, a compression spring or an elastic sleeve.

[0098] In one possible implementation, reference Figure 3 and Fig.11 As shown, the connecting member 20 also includes at least one reinforcing rib 205, referring to Figure 5 As shown, the reinforcing rib 205 may be fixedly connected between the inner wall and the bottom wall of the column portion 27 , which helps to enhance the strength of the side wall of the column portion 27 , and the first positioning protrusion 204 is fixedly connected to the bottom wall of the column portion 27 .

[0099] In a possible implementation, the flexible member 30 is made of a flexible material, for example, the flexible member 30 may be made of rubber or silicone material, which is flexible and elastic. The flexible member 30 may be deformed after being squeezed by the detection rod 100 of the printer.

[0100] The printer has a control mechanism, which is used to push the detection rod 100 to move toward the consumable box. When the detection rod 100 and the flexible member 30 are initially abutted, the detection rod 100 is in a first position. When the ink in the variable volume chamber 201 is completely consumed, the detection rod 100 abuts the flexible member 30 and enters the second position of the variable volume chamber 201. The second position is the detection position.

[0101] The printer also has a detection unit, which is a photoelectric detection unit, and the detection unit includes a light emitting part and a light receiving part. A shielding plate is connected to the lower side of the detection rod 100 of the printer, and the shielding plate is located between the light emitting part and the light receiving part. When the ink inside the ink storage tank 10 is not exhausted, the detection rod 100 abuts against the flexible member 30 and moves from the first position to the second position, and the flexible member 30 also deforms toward the variable volume chamber 201, and the light emitted by the light emitting part will not be blocked, and the light emitted by the light emitting part is received by the light receiving part.

[0102] In one possible implementation, reference Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Fig.12 As shown, the main body also includes a stopper 70, and the end of the tube column portion 27 facing away from the ink storage tank 10 is a mounting end surface 272, and a mounting groove 271 is provided in the mounting end surface 272. The edge of the flexible member 30 is provided with a leak-proof portion 32, and the leak-proof portion 32 is embedded in the mounting groove 271. The stopper 70 is detachably connected to the mounting end surface 272, and the stopper 70 and the mounting end surface 272 jointly squeeze the leak-proof portion 32.

[0103] In one possible implementation, reference Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the stopper 70 may be welded to the mounting end surface 272 of the column portion 27, and at least two snap-fit ​​buckles 71 are provided on the edge of the stopper 70, and the snap-fit ​​buckles 71 may be connected to the outer side walls on opposite sides of the stopper 70. The outer wall surface of the column portion 27 has at least one of a recessed portion 273 and a snap-fit ​​convex portion 274, and the snap-fit ​​buckle 71 may be snapped into the recessed portion 273, and the snap-fit ​​buckle 71 may also be snapped into the snap-fit ​​convex portion 274 to prevent the snap-fit ​​buckle 71 from coming out. Of course, the snap-fit ​​buckle 71 may also be snapped into the recessed portion 273 and snap-fit ​​into the snap-fit ​​convex portion 274 to improve the effect of preventing the snap-fit ​​buckle 71 from coming out.

[0104] By snapping the snap buckle 71 into the recessed portion 273, or the snap buckle 71 and the snap protrusion 274 snapping into each other, the relative fixation of the stop member 70 and the column portion 27 can be easily achieved during the production process, thereby preventing the stop member 70 and the flexible member 30 from falling off the connecting member 20 during the production and assembly process, thereby ensuring the smooth progress of the production and assembly process.

[0105] There may be a plurality of recessed portions 273 distributed along the circumference of the column portion 27 , and two adjacent recessed portions 273 may be separated by a retaining rib, which may enhance the structural strength of the column portion 27 .

[0106] In this example, the protrusion 274 is a raised structure protruding from the outer wall of the column portion 27, and the bottom end of the snap buckle 71 is a hook-shaped structure. The hook-shaped structure is hooked on the bottom of the protrusion 274, or the hook-shaped structure is hooked on the edge of the recessed portion 273, so that the stop member 70, the flexible member 30 and the column portion 27 can be relatively installed and fixed.

[0107] In order to improve the relative installation and fixation stability of the stopper 70 , the flexible member 30 and the column portion 27 , the number of the snap-fit ​​buckles 71 can be greater and distributed at intervals on the outer wall surface of the column portion 27 along the circumference of the column portion 27 .

[0108] In one possible implementation, reference Fig. 9 , Fig.11 and Fig.14 As shown, the outlet portion also includes a first circumferential wall 211, the head portion 45 includes at least a sealing portion 41 and a base end portion 42, the sealing portion 41 includes a first sealing segment 411, the first sealing segment 411 is connected to the edge of the base end portion 42, and the first sealing segment 411 is abutted against the first circumferential wall 211, and the rod portion 46 is connected to a side of the base end portion 42 facing the outlet portion.

[0109] refer to Figure 4 As shown, the communication channel 21 is used to achieve fluid communication between the variable volume chamber 201 and the ink storage tank 10. When the consumable box is supplying ink, the ink stored in the ink storage tank 10 enters the variable volume chamber 201 through the communication channel 21, and then supplies ink to the printer from the variable volume chamber 201. Fig. 9 , Fig.13 and Fig.14 As shown, regardless of whether the ink in the ink storage tank 10 is exhausted, as the ink in the variable volume chamber 201 is gradually consumed, the flexible member 30 is deformed toward the first peripheral wall 211, and the contact area between the head 45 and the first peripheral wall 211 increases as the distance between the flexible member 30 and the ink storage tank 10 decreases, so as to improve the sealing between the adjustment member 40 and the outlet.

[0110] In a possible implementation, the adjusting member 40 may be made of rubber.

[0111] In one possible implementation, reference Fig.19 and Fig. 20 As shown, the area of ​​the first peripheral wall 211 contacting the sealing portion 41 is the sealing area, and the sealing portion 41 has a center line 4101 and a deformation line 4102, the center line 4101 is perpendicular to the sealing area, and the angle between the deformation line 4102 and the center line 4101 increases as the distance between the flexible member 30 and the ink storage tank 10 decreases. Among them, the sealing area is located on the first peripheral wall 211, and the shape of the sealing area is annular.

[0112] refer to Fig. 20 and Fig.26 As shown, the first sealing section 411 has a sealing surface 4111, which may be a curved surface, and the sealing surface 4111 abuts against the first peripheral wall 211. When the consumable box is not installed in the installation part of the printer, the first sealing section 411 of the sealing portion 41 of the adjusting member 40 abuts against the first peripheral wall 211, the first sealing section 411 seals the outlet, and the extension portion 43 is inserted into the connecting channel 21.

[0113] In a possible implementation, the angle between the deformation line 4102 and the center line 4101 is 0-45°.

[0114] In one possible implementation, reference Figure 7 and Fig. 9 As shown, the sealing portion 41 further includes a second sealing segment 412, which is connected to an end of the first sealing segment 411 away from the base end 42, and a cavity 413 is defined between the second sealing segment 412 and the first sealing segment 411, the opening of the cavity 413 faces away from the outlet.

[0115] In a possible implementation, the second sealing segment 412 is intersected and connected with the first sealing segment 411 , and the shape formed by the second sealing segment 412 and the first sealing segment 411 may be U-shaped, V-shaped, or other shapes.

[0116] refer to Fig. 20 and Fig.26 As shown, the sealing portion 41 has a cross-section perpendicular to the plane where the base end portion 42 is located. In the cross-section of the sealing portion 41, a line connecting the center of the connection between the undeformed second sealing segment 412 and the first sealing segment 411 and the center of the cavity 413 forms a center line 4101, and a line connecting the center of the area where the deformed first sealing segment 411 contacts the first peripheral wall 211 and the center of the cavity 413 forms a deformation line 4102.

[0117] Fig.17 and Fig.18 The first sealing section 411 and the second sealing section 412 of the sealing portion 41 of the adjusting member 40 are not deformed; Figures 19 to 22The first sealing section 411 and the second sealing section 412 of the sealing portion 41 of the adjusting member 40 are deformed.

[0118] refer to Fig.15 and Fig.16 As shown, the sealing portion 41 has a cross section 414 perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the base end portion 42. In the cross section 414 of the sealing portion 41, the center of the undeformed second sealing segment 412 and the first sealing segment 411 connected to the center of the cavity 413 forms a center line 4101; Fig. 20 and Fig. 22 As shown, the center of the area where the deformed first sealing segment 411 contacts the first peripheral wall 211 and the center of the cavity 413 forms a deformation line 4102. In some examples, the angle between the deformation line 4102 and the center line 4101 may be 0-45°.

[0119] refer to Fig.11 As shown, the outlet portion further includes a second peripheral wall 212, the second peripheral wall 212 is connected to the first peripheral wall 211, and the second sealing section 412 at least partially abuts against the second peripheral wall 212. This arrangement can improve the sealing performance between the adjustment member 40 and the outlet portion.

[0120] exist Fig.17 and Fig.18 As shown, the consumable box is installed in the installation part of the printer. When the ink in the variable volume chamber 201 is consumed, the sealing part 41 of the adjusting member 40 is separated from the outlet part, and the ink in the ink storage tank 10 can enter the variable volume chamber 201 to replenish the ink in the variable volume chamber 201.

[0121] exist Fig.19 and Fig. 20 In the embodiment, the consumable box is installed in the installation part of the printer, and the ink in the ink storage tank 10 or the variable volume chamber 201 has not been consumed yet, or after the ink in the variable volume chamber 201 is consumed, the ink storage tank 10 refills the ink into the variable volume chamber 201. At this time, the consumable box is in the first state;

[0122] exist Fig.21 In the embodiment, as the ink in the variable volume chamber 201 begins to be consumed, the flexible member 30 gradually deforms toward the direction close to the ink storage tank 10. Fig.21 and Fig. 22 In the embodiment, the consumable box is installed in the installation part of the printer, and the ink in the variable volume chamber 201 is completely consumed. At this time, the consumable box is in the second state.

[0123] Fig.19 and Fig. 20 Consumables box and Fig.21 and Fig. 22The sealing portion 41 of the adjusting member 40 of the consumable box seals the outlet portion, so that the connecting channel 21 is closed, and the ink in the variable volume chamber 201 cannot enter the ink storage tank 10. The distance between the flexible member 30 of the consumable box in the first state and the ink storage tank 10 is greater than the distance between the flexible member 30 and the ink storage tank 10 of the consumable box in the second state. The angle θ between the deformation line 4102 of the sealing portion 41 of the consumable box in the first state and the center line 4101 is less than the angle Φ between the deformation line 4102 of the sealing portion 41 of the consumable box in the second state and the center line 4101, that is, θ<Φ.

[0124] In some examples, the angle θ between the deformation line 4102 and the center line 4101 of the sealing portion 41 of the consumable box in the first state may be, for example, 12°, and the angle Φ between the deformation line 4102 and the center line 4101 of the sealing portion 41 of the consumable box in the first state may be, for example, 20°.

[0125] like Figure 21 to Figure 23 As shown, when the consumable box is installed in the installation part of the printer, as the ink in the variable volume chamber 201 is gradually consumed, the detection rod 100 pushes the flexible member 30 to gradually move toward the variable volume chamber 201, the volume of the variable volume chamber 201 gradually decreases, the distance between the flexible member 30 and the ink storage tank 10 gradually decreases, the contact area between the first sealing section 411 and the first peripheral wall 211 gradually increases, and the angle between the deformation line 4102 and the center line 4101 gradually increases, which can improve the sealing between the adjustment member 40 and the outlet.

[0126] refer to Fig.16 and Fig.26 As shown, when the consumable box is not installed in the installation part of the printer, the head 45 of the adjusting member 40 abuts against the outlet portion, and the sealing portion 41 of the adjusting member 40 abuts against the first peripheral wall 211. The sealing portion 41 seals the outlet portion, so that the variable volume chamber 201 is disconnected from the connecting channel 21, resulting in no ink flow between the ink storage tank 10 and the variable volume chamber 201.

[0127] refer to Fig.19 and Fig. 20 As shown, the sealing portion 41 of the adjusting member 40 seals the outlet portion so that the connecting channel 21 is closed, and the ink in the variable volume chamber 201 cannot enter the ink storage tank 10. The distance between the flexible member 30 of the consumable box in the first state and the ink storage tank 10 is greater than the distance between the flexible member 30 of the consumable box in the second state and the ink storage tank 10. The deformation amount of the sealing portion 41 of the consumable box in the first state is less than the deformation amount of the sealing portion 41 of the consumable box in the second state. The contact area between the sealing portion 41 of the consumable box in the first state and the first peripheral wall 211 is less than the contact area between the sealing portion 41 of the consumable box in the second state and the first peripheral wall 211.

[0128] It should be noted that the reference Fig.17 and Fig.18 As shown, when the connecting channel 21 is opened, the variable volume chamber 201 is connected with the interior of the ink storage tank 10, and the ink in the ink storage tank 10 can reach the outlet through the connecting channel 21, and then enter the variable volume chamber 201. The ink in the variable volume chamber 201 enters the ink outlet channel 203 from the ink inlet 2032 and reaches the ink outlet 2031.

[0129] It should be noted that when the ink in the ink storage tank 10 is consumed, the adjusting member 40 is deformed in the direction away from the outlet portion in the extension direction of the connecting channel 21, that is, the axial direction of the connecting channel 21, so that the sealing portion 41 of the adjusting member 40 is separated from the outlet portion, and the connecting channel 21 is opened. The ink in the ink storage tank 10 can reach the outlet portion through the connecting channel 21, and then enter the variable volume chamber 201, so as to replenish the ink in the variable volume chamber 201. When the ink in the variable volume chamber 201 is gradually consumed, the adjusting member 40 is deformed in the direction close to the outlet portion, so that the sealing portion 41 of the adjusting member 40 abuts against the outlet portion and seals, and the connecting channel 21 is closed, so that the ink in the variable volume chamber 201 can be prevented from flowing back into the ink storage tank 10.

[0130] The consumable box provided in the embodiment of the present invention, when the consumable box is installed in the installation part of the printer, as the ink in the variable volume chamber 201 is gradually consumed, an adjusting member 40 is arranged on the outlet portion of the connecting channel 21, and the contact area between the sealing portion 41 of the adjusting member 40 and the first peripheral wall 211 of the outlet portion increases as the distance between the flexible member 30 and the ink storage tank 10 decreases, which can improve the sealing between the adjusting member 40 and the outlet portion, and prevent the ink in the variable volume chamber 201 from flowing back into the ink storage tank 10, thereby preventing the internal pressure of the variable volume chamber 201 from suddenly changing, causing the detection rod 100 abutting against the flexible member 30 to suddenly move to the middle and upper part of the variable volume chamber 201, resulting in the problem that the ink in the consumable box is not actually consumed but the detection unit in the printer prompts that the ink in the consumable box is exhausted. The solution provided by the present application can improve the detection accuracy of the printer, save user usage costs, avoid unnecessary waste, and ensure the normal use of the consumable box.

[0131] In one possible implementation, reference Fig. 9 , Fig.13 and Fig.14 As shown, the outlet portion further includes an outer step platform 213 , which is disposed on the first peripheral wall 211 and protrudes into the variable volume chamber 201 ; the first peripheral wall 211 is located outside the outer step platform 213 in the radial direction of the outer step platform 213 .

[0132] In a possible implementation, when the adjusting member 40 and the outlet portion are in an installed state, the first sealing section 411 abuts against the first peripheral wall 211 and at least a portion of the outer step 213 .

[0133] The outer stepped platform 213 protrudes from the first peripheral wall 211 in the extending direction of the communication channel 21 , and the first peripheral wall 211 is located outside the outer stepped platform 213 in the radial direction of the outer stepped platform 213 .

[0134] The communication channel 21 may extend along the length direction of the consumable box.

[0135] refer to Fig.13 and Fig.14 As shown, the outer stepped platform 213 is cylindrical in shape. The outer stepped platform 213 has a top surface 2131, an inner side surface 2132 and an outer side surface 2133, the inner side surface 2132 and the outer side surface 2133 are respectively connected to the top surface 2131, the base end portion 42 is spaced apart from the top surface 2131 in the extending direction of the connecting passage 21, and the first sealing section 411 can abut against the outer side surface 2133.

[0136] The inner side surface 2132 and the outer side surface 2133 may be respectively perpendicular to the top surface 2131 , and the outer side surface 2133 is perpendicularly connected to the first peripheral wall 211 .

[0137] refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, when the consumable box is installed in the installation part of the printer, as the ink in the variable volume chamber 201 is gradually consumed, the detection rod 100 pushes the flexible member 30 to gradually move toward the variable volume chamber 201, the volume of the variable volume chamber 201 gradually decreases, the distance between the flexible member 30 and the ink storage tank 10 gradually decreases, the deformation degree of the first sealing section 411 gradually increases, the contact area between the first sealing section 411 and the first peripheral wall 211 gradually increases, and the first sealing section 411 abuts against the outer side surface 2133, which can further improve the sealing between the adjustment member 40 and the outlet portion.

[0138] In one possible implementation, reference Fig.14 As shown, a clamping platform 216 is provided on a side of the receiving portion 24 facing away from the variable volume chamber 201 , or a clamping platform 216 is provided on a side of the receiving portion 24 and at least a part of the connecting arm 25 facing away from the variable volume chamber 201 .

[0139] In one possible implementation, reference Fig.16 , Fig.25 and Fig.26 As shown, the rod portion 46 includes a neck portion 461 and a boss 44 which are sequentially connected along the axial direction. The neck portion 461 is connected to the base end portion 42 , and the boss 44 abuts against the clamping platform 216 .

[0140] In one possible implementation, reference Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Fig. 9 As shown, the rod portion 46 includes a neck portion 461 , a boss 44 and an extension portion 43 which are sequentially connected along the axial direction. The neck portion 461 is connected to the base end portion 42 and the boss 44 , and the boss 44 abuts against the clamping platform 216 .

[0141] The rod portion 46 is perpendicular to the base end portion 42 , and the extension portion 43 can be inserted into the communication channel 21 .

[0142] In a possible implementation, the base end portion 42 may be configured as an annular shape, the extension portion 43 may be configured as a cylindrical shape, the diameter of the base end portion 42 is greater than the diameter of the extension portion 43 , and the boss 44 may be configured as a cone shape.

[0143] It should be noted that when installing the adjusting member 40 and the outlet portion, the extension portion 43 first passes through the through portion 241. At this time, the boss 44 abuts against the side of the through portion 241 facing the variable volume chamber 201, and the extension portion 43 is pulled toward the direction close to the ink storage tank 10, so that the boss passes through the through portion 241 and enters the connecting channel 21, that is, one end of the boss 44 abuts against the side of the through portion 241 facing away from the variable volume chamber 201, thereby completing the installation of the adjusting member 40 and the outlet portion.

[0144] In some examples, reference Fig.14 As shown, the connecting channel 21 has two inner step platforms, which are the first inner step platform 214 and the second inner step platform 215. The first inner step platform 214 is connected between the outer step platform 213 and the second inner step platform 215. The inner diameter of the outer step platform 213 is larger than the inner diameter of the first inner step platform 214, and the inner diameter of the first inner step platform 214 is larger than the inner diameter of the second inner step platform 215. The inner surface of the first inner step platform 214 is conical, and the inner surface of the second inner step platform 215 is cylindrical.

[0145] A plurality of clamping platforms 216 are disposed on the second inner step platform 215 , and the plurality of clamping platforms 216 are disposed at intervals along the circumferential direction of the second inner step platform 215 .

[0146] When the adjusting member 40 and the outlet portion are in the installed state, the control unit drives the control mechanism to drive the detection rod 100 to move in the direction away from the flexible member 30, that is, the detection rod 100 is out of contact with the flexible member 30, and the flexible member 30 is displaced in the direction away from the variable volume chamber 201 under the second action of the elastic member 60 provided in the variable volume chamber 201 to restore the deformation force. During the process of the flexible member 30 restoring the initial shape, the negative pressure value in the variable volume chamber 201 will increase. When the flexible member 30 is restored to the initial shape, the current negative pressure value in the variable volume chamber 201 just reaches the opening value of the adjusting member 40, then the adjusting member 40 is displaced in the direction away from the first peripheral wall 211 under the action of the external force, and the ink stored in the ink storage tank 10 enters the variable volume chamber 201 through the multiple hollow parts 26 under the action of gravity, and the ink in the variable volume chamber 201 is replenished.

[0147] The boss 44 of the rod 46 is engaged with the plurality of clamping platforms 216 in the extending direction of the communication channel 21. The shape of the clamping platform 216 is not specifically set here. The shape of the boss 44 can be conical.

[0148] In a possible implementation, the sealing portion 41 , the base end portion 42 , the extension portion 43 and the boss 44 are integrally formed.

[0149] refer to Figure 7 , Fig. 9 and Fig.11 As shown, when the consumable box is not installed in the installation part of the printer, the boss 44 of the adjusting member 40 is engaged with the multiple engaging platforms 216 of the outlet portion, the sealing portion 41 is slightly deformed in the direction close to the outlet portion, the sealing portion 41 of the adjusting member 40 abuts against the first peripheral wall 211, the sealing portion 41 seals the outlet portion, and the second sealing section 412 at least partially abuts against the second peripheral wall 212.

[0150] refer to Figure 4 As shown, when the consumable box is installed in the installation part of the printer, as the ink in the variable volume chamber 201 is gradually consumed, the detection rod 100 pushes the flexible member 30 to gradually move toward the variable volume chamber 201, the volume of the variable volume chamber 201 gradually decreases, the distance between the flexible member 30 and the ink storage tank 10 gradually decreases, and the contact area between the first sealing section 411 and the first peripheral wall 211 gradually increases, which can improve the sealing between the adjustment member 40 and the outlet.

[0151] In one possible implementation, reference Fig.10 , Fig.13 and Fig.23As shown, the connecting member 20 includes a fixedly connected connecting body 22 and a supporting portion 23, the supporting portion 23 is located inside the ink storage tank 10, and an ink discharge portion is also provided on the connecting member 20, the ink discharge portion connects the variable volume chamber 201 and the outside of the variable volume chamber 201, and the column portion 27 is provided on a side of the connecting body 22 facing away from the supporting portion 23.

[0152] In this example, the connecting member 20 is an integrally formed unit.

[0153] In one possible implementation, reference Fig.10 As shown, the support portion 23 includes an arm portion 231 and an arc portion 232 , and the arm portion 231 is connected between the connecting body 22 and the arc portion 232 .

[0154] The arm 231 includes a plurality of interconnected support plates 2311, at least one side of each support plate 2311 is provided with a plurality of first protrusions 2312, the first protrusions 2312 provided on two adjacent support plates 2311 are arranged alternately, and in the extension direction of the support plate 2311, a first space 2313 is formed between two adjacent first protrusions 2312. The support plate 2311 extends along the length direction of the consumable box.

[0155] A plurality of second protrusions 2321 are disposed on the arc portion 232 at intervals, and a second space 2322 is formed between two adjacent second protrusions 2321 .

[0156] The arc portion 232 is in the shape of an arc and is provided with a plurality of second protrusions 2321 , which are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction of the arc portion 232 , and a second space 2322 is formed between two adjacent second protrusions 2321 in the circumferential direction of the arc portion 232 .

[0157] refer to Figure 4 and Fig.10 As shown, when the consumable box is installed in the installation part of the printer, the first space 2313 and the second space 2322 can accommodate bubbles in the ink stored in the ink storage tank 10, preventing the bubbles from entering the ink supply mechanism in the printer through the ink outlet 2031, causing printing disconnection and affecting the printing quality.

[0158] In one possible implementation, reference Fig.23 and Fig.24As shown, the body of the consumable box includes a shell assembly, which includes a first shell 51, a second shell 52 and a third shell 53. In the length direction of the consumable box, the second shell 52 is connected between the first shell 51 and the third shell 53. The first shell 51, the second shell 52 and the third shell 53 form a receiving cavity. The connecting member 20 is arranged in the receiving cavity. The connecting body 22 separates the receiving cavity into a first cavity and a second cavity. A part of the connecting member 20 is located in the first cavity, and the other part is located in the second cavity. The ink storage tank 10 is arranged in the second cavity.

[0159] The connecting channel 21 is arranged in the connecting body 22 , and is used to connect the interior of the ink storage tank 10 and the variable volume chamber 201 . Specifically, under the action of external force, the ink inside the ink storage tank 10 will flow into the variable volume chamber 201 .

[0160] In one possible implementation, the first shell 51, the second shell 52 and the third shell 53 may be made of polypropylene to provide a strong protection and prevent water loss from the ink.

[0161] In a consumables box provided by the present invention, the first shell 51 may be mutually buckled with the second shell 52, for example, connected by a snap-fit ​​structure, or the first shell 51 and the second shell 52 may be mutually connected by screws.

[0162] In a possible implementation, the first shell 51 may be in a bottle shape.

[0163] Through the position of the printer pressure detection device, it can detect when the consumable cartridge is close to empty and issue an ink shortage warning. This can significantly extend the life of the print head by preventing the ink nozzle from firing "empty".

[0164] refer to Fig.24 As shown, the second shell 52 is provided with a first circumferential groove 521 , and the first shell 51 is provided with a first circumferential protrusion 511 . The first circumferential groove 521 of the second shell 52 is engaged with the first circumferential protrusion 511 of the first shell 51 , thereby achieving a firm connection between the first shell 51 and the second shell 52 .

[0165] The second housing 52 is provided with a second circumferential groove 522, and the third housing 53 is provided with a second circumferential protrusion 531. The second circumferential groove 522 of the second housing 52 is engaged with the second circumferential protrusion 531 of the third housing 53, so that the second housing 52 and the third housing 53 are firmly connected. The second circumferential protrusion 531 and the second circumferential groove 522 are engaged with each other, so that the first housing 51 is installed on the second housing 52.

[0166] refer to Fig.10 and Fig.24As shown, a third circumferential groove 523 is provided on the second shell 52, and a third circumferential protrusion 206 is provided on the connecting member 20. The third circumferential groove 523 of the second shell 52 is engaged with the third circumferential protrusion 206 of the connecting member 20 to achieve a firm connection between the second shell 52 and the connecting member 20.

[0167] A gripping surface 532 is formed on the peripheral wall of the third housing 53 . The shape and texture of the gripping surface 532 enable the user to easily grip and operate the consumables box.

[0168] like Figure 2 and Fig.24 As shown, the first shell 51 is provided with a first through hole 512, a second through hole 513 and a third through hole 514 in sequence along the width direction of the consumable box, the ink outlet 2031 is exposed from the first through hole 512, the flexible member 30 is exposed from the second through hole 513, and the filling hole 202 is exposed from the third through hole 514.

[0169] The consumable box is installed in the installation part of the printer, the ink outlet 2031 of the consumable box is connected to the ink supply mechanism in the printer, the ink supply needle in the ink supply mechanism presses the ball valve set in the ink outlet 2031 and enters into the ink outlet 2031, and a control mechanism is set in the printer. The control mechanism is used to push the detection rod 100 to move toward the consumable box. The detection rod 100 passes through the second through hole 513 and abuts against the flexible member 30. At this time, the detection rod 100 is in the first position.

[0170] The embodiment of the present invention provides a consumables box, and the working process is as follows:

[0171] When the consumable box is in a full ink state, that is, the ink storage tank 10 and the variable volume chamber 201 are both full of ink, the adjusting member 40 is subjected to the first force, and the sealing portion 41 of the adjusting member 40 is slightly deformed toward the direction close to the outlet portion. At this time, the first sealing section 411 of the sealing portion 41 abuts against at least part of the outer step 213 and at least part of the first peripheral wall 211 to achieve sealing between the adjusting member 40 and the outlet portion. At this time, the flexible member 30 is located outside the tubular column portion 27, and the detection rod 100 abuts against the flexible member 30 in the first position, that is, the initial position, and no ink flows between the ink storage tank 10 and the variable volume chamber 201.

[0172] It should be noted that the first force is defined as the squeezing force applied by the detection rod 100 against the flexible member 30 to the ink temporarily stored in the variable volume chamber 201 .

[0173] When the ink supply mechanism in the printer applies a suction force to the ink outlet 2031, the ink temporarily stored in the variable volume chamber 201 is sucked out through the ink outlet 2031, that is, the ink temporarily stored in the variable volume chamber 201 is supplied to the ink supply mechanism of the printer. Since the detection rod 100 applies an abutting force to the ink in the variable volume chamber 201 through the flexible member 30, that is, it squeezes the flexible member 30 into the variable volume chamber 201, the ink temporarily stored in the variable volume chamber 201 can be supplied to the ink supply unit of the printer through the ink outlet 2031, so that the printer can supply the ink to the printer without applying a large suction force. As the ink in the variable volume chamber 201 is consumed, the detection rod 100 squeezes the flexible member 30 and moves in the direction close to the variable volume chamber 201. When the ink in the variable volume chamber 201 is completely consumed, the detection rod 100 abuts the flexible member 30 and enters the second position of the variable volume chamber 201, that is, the detection position.

[0174] When the detection rod 100 abuts against the flexible member 30 and enters the second position of the variable volume chamber 201, the shielding member detaches from the detection unit as the detection rod 100 moves, so that the light emitted by the light transmitter is received by the light receiver, and the signal is fed back to the control unit. The control unit drives the control mechanism to drive the detection rod 100 to move in the direction away from the flexible member 30, that is, the detection rod 100 is separated from the contact with the flexible member 30, and the flexible member 30 is displaced in the direction away from the variable volume chamber 201 under the second action of the deformation recovery force of the elastic member 60 provided in the variable volume chamber 201. In the process of the flexible member 30 restoring its initial shape, the negative pressure value in the variable volume chamber 201 will increase.

[0175] When the flexible member 30 returns to its initial state, the negative pressure value in the current variable volume chamber 201 just reaches the opening value of the adjusting member 40, and the sealing portion 41 of the adjusting member 40 is displaced in a direction away from the first peripheral wall 211 under the action of the external force, and the ink stored in the ink storage tank 10 enters the variable volume chamber 201 through the multiple hollow portions 26 under the action of gravity, replenishing the ink in the variable volume chamber 201. In the whole process, the ink supply to the printer is not stopped.

[0176] As the ink in the variable volume chamber 201 is continuously filled, the negative pressure value in the variable volume chamber 201 decreases. When the negative pressure value is lower than the opening value of the adjusting member 40, the adjusting member 40 is closed. At this time, the control mechanism drives the detection rod 100 to move toward the first position abutting against the flexible member 30 in the direction close to the flexible member 30. Due to the first force acting on the adjusting member 40, the sealing portion 41 is slightly deformed toward the direction close to the outlet portion, thereby enhancing the sealing performance between the adjusting member 40 and the outlet portion, so that no ink flows between the ink storage tank 10 and the variable volume chamber 201, and the ink temporarily stored in the variable volume chamber 201 is prevented from flowing back into the ink storage tank 10. Repeat the above process.

[0177] When the ink in the ink reservoir 10 is completely consumed, the ink in the variable volume chamber 201 begins to be consumed. At this time, the above detection cycle is repeated, wherein the detection cycle is that the detection rod 100 moves from the first position where it initially abuts against the flexible member 30 to the second position, and then moves from the second position through the first position to the point where it is out of abutment with the flexible member 30, and the second position is the detection position where the detection rod 100 abuts against the flexible member 30 and enters the variable volume chamber 201.

[0178] When the control mechanism drives the detection rod 100 to move toward the flexible member 30, the detection rod 100 abuts against the flexible member 30 and does not stay in the first position, but directly moves to the second position. As the detection rod 100 moves, the shielding member detaches from the detection unit, so that the light emitted by the light transmitter is received by the light receiver, and the signal is fed back to the control unit. That is, when the control unit continuously detects the light path signal in two adjacent detection cycles, it means that the ink in the variable volume chamber 201 is consumed, that is, it indicates that the ink is exhausted.

[0179] 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 consumables box, detachably mounted in a mounting portion of a printer, characterized in that: The consumables box comprises: A body, wherein the body has an ink storage container (10) for storing ink and a variable volume cavity (201), and the body also has a connecting channel (21) therein, wherein the connecting channel (21) is located between the variable volume cavity (201) and the inside of the ink storage container (10), wherein one end of the connecting channel (21) extends into the variable volume cavity (201) and is provided with an outlet, wherein the outlet comprises a receiving portion (24) and at least two connecting arms (25), wherein the at least two connecting arms (25) are connected between an inner wall surface of the connecting channel (21) and the receiving portion (24); An adjusting member (40), wherein the adjusting member (40) is movably connected to the receiving portion (24).

2. The consumables box according to claim 1, characterized in that: One end of the connecting arm (25) is connected to the inner wall surface of the connecting channel (21), and the other end of the connecting arm (25) extends obliquely in the connecting channel (21) in a direction away from the variable volume chamber (201) and is connected to the receiving portion (24), and at least a portion of the receiving portion (24) is located in the connecting channel (21).

3. The consumables box according to claim 1, characterized in that: The connecting arms (25) are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the connecting channel (21), and a hollow portion (26) for ink to pass through is provided between two adjacent connecting arms (25).

4. The consumables box according to claim 3, characterized in that: The included angles between two adjacent connecting arms (25) are equal, and the flow areas of the hollow portions (26) are consistent; The hollow portion (26) has a first hole wall (261) away from the center position of the connecting channel (21), and the hollow portion (26) also has a second hole wall (262) close to the center position of the connecting channel (21), the first hole wall (261) and the second hole wall (262) both extend along the circumference of the connecting channel (21), and the arc length of the second hole wall (262) is smaller than the arc length of the first hole wall (261).

5. The consumables box according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The receiving portion (24) has a through portion (241) inside, the adjusting member (40) comprises at least a head portion (45) and a rod portion (46) connected to the head portion (45), the rod portion (46) is movably arranged in the through portion (241), and the head portion (45) is movably abutted against the outlet portion; Along the axial direction of the rod portion (46), the projection of the connecting arm (25) is within the projection range of the head portion (45).

6. The consumables box according to claim 5, characterized in that: The outlet portion further comprises a first peripheral wall (211); the head portion (45) comprises at least a sealing portion (41) and a base end portion (42); the sealing portion (41) comprises a first sealing segment (411); the first sealing segment (411) is connected to an edge of the base end portion (42), and the first sealing segment (411) abuts against the first peripheral wall (211).

7. The consumables box according to claim 6, characterized in that: The main body comprises a connecting piece (20) and a flexible piece (30); the connecting piece (20) is connected to the ink storage container (10); the connecting piece (20) has a tube column portion (27) extending to the outside of the ink storage container (10); the tube column portion (27) and the flexible piece (30) together form the variable volume chamber (201); and the connecting channel (21) is located in the connecting piece (20).

8. The consumables box according to claim 7, characterized in that: The area of ​​the first peripheral wall (211) that contacts the sealing portion (41) is a sealing area, and the sealing portion (41) has a center line (4101) and a deformation line (4102), the center line (4101) is perpendicular to the sealing area, and the angle between the deformation line (4102) and the center line (4101) increases as the distance between the flexible member (30) and the ink storage tank (10) decreases.

9. The consumables box according to claim 8, characterized in that: The angle between the deformation line (4102) and the center line (4101) is 0 to 45 degrees.

10. The consumables box according to claim 8, characterized in that: The sealing portion (41) further comprises a second sealing segment (412), the second sealing segment (412) being connected to an end of the first sealing segment (411) opposite to the base end portion (42), and a cavity (413) being provided between the second sealing segment (412) and the first sealing segment (411), the opening of the cavity (413) being opposite to the outlet portion; The sealing portion (41) has a cross-section perpendicular to the plane where the base end portion (42) is located. In the cross-section of the sealing portion (41), a line connecting the center of the connection between the undeformed second sealing segment (412) and the first sealing segment (411) and the center of the cavity (413) forms the center line (4101), and a line connecting the center of the area where the deformed first sealing segment (411) contacts the first peripheral wall (211) and the center of the cavity (413) forms the deformation line (4102).

11. The consumables box according to claim 7, characterized in that: The main body also includes a stopper (70), an end of the tube column (27) facing away from the ink storage tank (10) is a mounting end surface (272), a mounting groove (271) is provided in the mounting end surface (272), an edge of the flexible member (30) is provided with a leak-proof portion (32), the leak-proof portion (32) is embedded in the mounting groove (271), the stopper (70) is detachably connected to the mounting end surface (272), and the stopper (70) and the mounting end surface (272) jointly squeeze the leak-proof portion (32).

12. The consumables box according to claim 7, characterized in that: The connecting member (20) comprises a connecting body (22) and a supporting portion (23) which are fixedly connected, the supporting portion (23) being located inside the ink storage container (10), the supporting portion (23) comprising an arm portion (231) and an arc-shaped portion (232), the arm portion (231) being connected between the connecting body (22) and the arc-shaped portion (232); The arm portion (231) comprises a plurality of support plates (2311) connected to each other, at least one side of each of the support plates (2311) is provided with a plurality of first protrusions (2312), the first protrusions (2312) provided on two adjacent support plates (2311) are arranged alternately with each other, and in the extension direction of the support plate (2311), a first space (2313) is formed between two adjacent first protrusions (2312); A plurality of second protrusions (2321) are arranged on the arc-shaped portion (232) in an interval manner, and a second space (2322) is formed between two adjacent second protrusions (2321).

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