Ink cartridge, method of ink injection, ink cartridge assembly, and printing apparatus

Abstract

The present application relates to ink cartridge, ink injection method, ink cartridge assembly and printing equipment, the ink cartridge includes: frame, the frame includes first frame and the partition plate arranged in the first frame, the first frame includes the first side frame and the second side frame separated by the partition plate, the first side frame is equipped with the first ink supply opening and the first air vent, the partition plate is equipped with the first channel and the second channel;First cover, the first cover is connected to the first side frame, the first cover, the first side frame and the partition plate surround the first chamber, and the first ink supply opening is communicated with the first chamber;Second cover, the second cover is connected to the second side frame, the second cover, the second side frame and the partition plate surround the second chamber, the first channel is communicated with the first chamber and the second chamber, and the second channel is communicated with the first air vent and the second chamber. The ink cartridge can increase the ink cartridge volume and the stable ink supply pressure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of printing consumables technology, specifically to ink cartridges, ink filling methods, ink cartridge assemblies, and printing equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Printing equipment is an important piece of equipment in modern offices and homes. According to the printing principle, it can generally be divided into inkjet printing equipment and laser printing equipment. Inkjet printing equipment sprays ink into fine particles through the print head nozzles onto the printing paper. Figure 1 This is a typical inkjet printer. The printing assembly 10 of this printer is equipped with multiple hollow ink-feeding needles 11 that supply ink to the print head. Some printer assemblies also include an air pump 12 on the printing assembly. Ink cartridges 20 are installed in the printer, for example, onto the printing assembly 10. There can be multiple ink cartridges 20, each capable of holding different colors of ink, such as black (K), yellow (Y), cyan (C), and magenta (M). Each ink cartridge 20 has an ink supply port for supplying ink to the printing assembly 10. Figure 1 (Not shown). When the ink cartridge 20 is placed on the printing device, the ink-collecting needle 11 is inserted into the ink supply port of the ink cartridge 20 to draw ink from the ink cartridge 20 and supply it to the print head. At the same time, the air pump 12 is inserted into the air vent of the ink cartridge (…). Figure 1 In (not shown), the ink cartridge is inflated, forcing the ink in the cartridge to flow out from the ink supply hole under pressure, thus achieving ink flow.

[0003] Because daily printing consumes a large amount of black ink and a small amount of color ink, there is often still color ink left when the black ink is used up. To meet users' ink needs, black ink cartridges are designed to have a larger capacity; typically, the capacity of a black ink cartridge (K) is twice that of a color ink cartridge (Y / C / M). A larger ink volume means a higher quality ink inside the cartridge, making it crucial to maintain pressure balance within the large-capacity cartridge.

[0004] Traditional design approaches involve designing ink cartridges for storing black ink and those for storing color ink separately. While their basic structures are the same, their parameters differ. For example, the dimensions of the ink storage chamber and vent valve in the black ink cartridge are larger than those of the corresponding components in the color ink cartridge. This results in an increase in the quantity and variety of materials, molds, and tooling, complicating the manufacturing process. Furthermore, the setting of material parameters directly affects the function of the ink cartridge. In particular, the parameter settings for materials and fixtures require numerous complex experiments to achieve precise and stable pressure control. Currently, with the increase in ink storage capacity, it is difficult to maintain stable ink supply pressure, leading to printing problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of the deficiencies of the prior art, a first object of the present application is to provide an ink cartridge capable of increasing the volume of the ink cartridge and stabilizing the ink supply pressure.

[0006] A second object of the present application is to provide an ink filling method for the ink cartridge, which has the advantages of simple steps and convenient operation.

[0007] A third object of the present application is to provide an ink cartridge assembly comprising the ink cartridge, which is convenient for debugging and manufacturing, capable of reducing the types of materials and lowering the process complexity.

[0008] A fourth object of the present application is to provide a printing device comprising the ink cartridge.

[0009] To achieve the first object of the present application, the present application provides an ink cartridge comprising: a frame comprising a first frame and a partition plate arranged in the first frame, the first frame comprising a first side frame and a second side frame separated by the partition plate, the first side frame being provided with a first ink supply port and a first air vent, and the partition plate being provided with a first channel and a second channel; a first cover body connected to the first side frame, the first cover body, the first side frame and the partition plate forming a first chamber, and the first ink supply port being in communication with the first chamber; and a second cover body connected to the second side frame, the second cover body, the second side frame and the partition plate forming a second chamber, the first channel being in communication with the first chamber and the second chamber, and the second channel being in communication with the first air vent and the second chamber.

[0010] In some embodiments of the present application, the aperture of the first channel is in the range of 1mm to 2mm.

[0011] In some embodiments of the present application, the aperture of the second channel is in the range of 1mm to 2mm.

[0012] In some embodiments of the present application, the first cover body comprises a first wall parallel to the normal line of the first ink supply port, the second cover body comprises a second wall parallel to the normal line of the first ink supply port, and the partition plate is parallel to the normal line of the first ink supply port.

[0013] In some embodiments of the present application, the first side frame and the second side frame respectively comprise a first bottom wall and a first top wall opposite to each other and two first side walls connecting the first bottom wall and the first top wall; the first ink supply port and the first air vent are arranged on the same first side wall of the first side frame, and the first ink supply port is closer to the first bottom wall than the first air vent; the first channel is arranged close to the first bottom wall; the first ink supply port is arranged close to the bottom wall; and the first channel is arranged close to the first side wall away from the first ink supply port.

[0014] In some embodiments of the present application, the frame further comprises a first baffle connected to the partition and in contact with the first cover, the first baffle separating the first chamber into a first ink storage chamber and a second ink storage chamber, the first baffle being provided with at least one third passage communicating the first ink storage chamber and the second ink storage chamber; the at least one third passage being arranged close to the first ink supply port.

[0015] In some embodiments of the present application, the frame further comprises a second baffle connected to the partition and in contact with the second cover, the second baffle separating the second chamber into a third ink storage chamber and a fourth ink storage chamber, the second baffle being provided with at least one fourth passage communicating the third ink storage chamber and the fourth ink storage chamber.

[0016] In some embodiments of the present application, the first ink supply port communicates the first ink storage chamber, the third ink storage chamber is adjacent to the first ink storage chamber, and the first passage communicates the first ink storage chamber and the third ink storage chamber.

[0017] In some embodiments of the present application, the first baffle extends from a side of the first ink supply port to a direction away from the first ink supply port, and the first baffle is inclined in the direction away from the first ink supply port to a direction away from a normal line of the first ink supply port.

[0018] In some embodiments of the present application, the second baffle extends from a position close to the first ink supply port to a direction away from the first ink supply port, and the second baffle is inclined in the direction away from the first ink supply port to a direction away from a normal line of the first ink supply port.

[0019] In some embodiments of the present application, the first vent is arranged on a wall of the second ink storage chamber, and the second passage is arranged on the partition between the second ink storage chamber and the fourth ink storage chamber.

[0020] In some embodiments of the present application, the ink cartridge further comprises a first valve assembly arranged between the first vent and the second passage, the first valve assembly being arranged in the first chamber and being configured to communicate or disconnect the first vent and the second passage under pressure.

[0021] In some embodiments of the present application, the ink cartridge further comprises a second valve assembly arranged in the first chamber, the second valve assembly being configured to communicate or disconnect the first ink supply port and the first chamber under external force.

[0022] In some embodiments of the present application, the first valve assembly comprises a first air exchange channel, a first annular portion, a first guide column, a first diaphragm and a first elastic member, the first air exchange channel, the first annular portion and the first guide column are respectively arranged on the partition plate or the first cover body; the first annular portion is formed with a first valve cavity separated from the first chamber, the first diaphragm is located in the first valve cavity, the edge of the first diaphragm is connected with the first annular portion, the first diaphragm has a first through hole in the middle, the first through hole is matched with the first guide column, the first diaphragm is deformable and can move along the first guide column, the first guide column is provided with a first air exchange groove; the first elastic member is arranged between the partition plate and the first diaphragm; the first end of the first air exchange channel is communicated with the first air vent, the second end of the first air exchange channel is communicated with the first annular portion and located on the first side of the first diaphragm; the second channel is communicated with the first annular portion and the second chamber, and the second channel is located on the second side of the first diaphragm.

[0023] In some embodiments of the present application, the first valve assembly further comprises a first cover portion, the first cover portion is arranged on one of the first cover body and the partition plate, the first annular portion is arranged on the other one of the first cover body and the partition plate, the first annular portion is provided with a first groove, the edge of the first diaphragm is located in the first groove, and the first cover portion covers the outside of the first groove and is in contact with the edge of the first diaphragm.

[0024] In some embodiments of the present application, the first valve assembly further comprises a first positioning portion, the first positioning portion is arranged on the partition plate, and the end of the first elastic member away from the first diaphragm is in contact with the first positioning portion.

[0025] In some embodiments of the present application, the first elastic member comprises a first spring and a second spring, the first spring is sleeved outside the first guide column, the second spring is sleeved outside the first spring, and the first spring and the second spring are respectively in contact with the first diaphragm.

[0026] In some embodiments of the present application, the middle of the first diaphragm comprises a first reinforcing portion arranged around the first through hole.

[0027] In some embodiments of the present application, the second channel is aligned with the inner bottom end of the first annular portion.

[0028] In some embodiments of the present application, the second valve assembly comprises a first limiting portion, a second elastic member and a first sealing member, the first limiting portion is arranged on the partition plate or the first cover body, the first sealing member is movably matched with the first ink supply port, and the second elastic member is connected between the first limiting portion and the first sealing member.

[0029] In some embodiments of the present application, the first limiting portion comprises a first limiting plate and a second limiting plate, the first limiting plate and the second limiting plate are respectively arranged on one of the partition plate or the first cover body and have a gap with the other one of the partition plate or the first cover body, the first limiting plate is arranged on the normal line of the first ink supply port, and the second limiting plate is parallel to the normal line of the first ink supply port.

[0030] To achieve the second object of the present application, the present application further provides a method for refilling an ink cartridge, the ink cartridge being any of the ink cartridges according to the above-mentioned embodiments, the method comprising: drawing air from the first ink supply opening to form a negative pressure in the ink cartridge; and then injecting ink into the ink cartridge from the first ink supply opening.

[0031] To achieve the third object of the present application, the present application further provides an ink cartridge assembly, comprising a first ink cartridge and at least one second ink cartridge, the first ink cartridge being any of the ink cartridges according to the above-mentioned embodiments, the second ink cartridge being adjacent to the first cover of the first ink cartridge; the second ink cartridge comprising: a housing, the housing comprising a second frame and a housing plate connected to a first side end of the second frame, the second frame being provided with a second ink supply opening and a second air passage; the second frame being identical in structure to the first side frame and being aligned with the first side frame, the second ink supply opening being aligned with the first ink supply opening, and the second air passage being aligned with the first air passage; a third cover, the third cover being connected to a second side end of the second frame, the third cover, the second frame and the housing plate forming a third chamber, the second ink supply opening and the second air passage being respectively open to the third chamber; the third cover being identical in structure to the first cover; the third cover being farther away from the first cover relative to the housing.

[0032] In some embodiments of the present application, the housing plate is parallel to the normal line of the second ink supply opening, and the third cover is parallel to the normal line of the second ink supply opening.

[0033] In some embodiments of the present application, the housing further comprises a third baffle, the third baffle being connected to the housing plate and being in contact with the third cover, the third baffle dividing the third chamber into a fifth ink storage chamber and a sixth ink storage chamber, the second ink supply opening being in communication with the fifth ink storage chamber, the third baffle being provided with at least one fifth passage, the fifth passage being in communication with the fifth ink storage chamber and the sixth ink storage chamber; the at least one fifth passage being arranged close to the second ink supply opening; the second air passage being arranged on the wall of the sixth ink storage chamber; the third baffle being identical in structure to the first baffle and being in corresponding positions.

[0034] In some embodiments of the present application, the third baffle extends from one side of the second ink supply opening to a direction away from the second ink supply opening, and the third baffle is inclined in the direction away from the normal line of the second ink supply opening in the direction away from the second ink supply opening.

[0035] In some embodiments of the present application, the second ink cartridge further comprises a third valve assembly and a fourth valve assembly; the third valve assembly being arranged in the third chamber, the third valve assembly being configured to be in communication or disconnected between the first air passage and the third chamber under pressure; the fourth valve assembly being arranged in the first chamber, the fourth valve assembly being configured to be in communication or disconnected between the second ink supply opening and the third chamber under external force.

[0036] In some embodiments of the present application, the third valve assembly comprises a second air exchange channel, a second annular portion, a second guide column, a second diaphragm and a third elastic member, the second air exchange channel, the second annular portion and the second guide column are arranged on the shell plate or the third cover body; the second annular portion is formed with a second valve cavity separated from the third cavity, the second diaphragm is arranged in the second valve cavity, the edge of the second diaphragm is connected with the second annular portion, the second diaphragm is provided with a second through hole in the middle, the second through hole is matched with the second guide column, the second diaphragm is deformable and can move along the second guide column, and the second guide column is provided with a second air exchange groove; the third elastic member is arranged between the shell plate and the second diaphragm; the first end of the second air exchange channel is communicated with the second air inlet, the second end of the second air exchange channel is communicated with the second annular portion and located on the first side of the second diaphragm; the second annular portion is provided with a sixth channel, the sixth channel is communicated with the second valve cavity and the third cavity, and the sixth channel is communicated with the second side of the second diaphragm.

[0037] In some embodiments of the present application, the fourth valve assembly comprises a second limiting portion, a fourth elastic member and a second sealing member, the second limiting portion is arranged on the shell plate or the third cover body, the second sealing member is movably matched with the second ink supply port, and the fourth elastic member is connected between the second limiting portion and the second sealing member.

[0038] In some embodiments of the present application, the third cavity, the second air exchange channel, the second guide column, the second diaphragm, the third elastic member, the second valve cavity, the second limiting portion, the fourth elastic member and the second sealing member are respectively the same in structure and correspond in position to the corresponding first cavity, first air exchange channel, first guide column, first diaphragm, first elastic member, first valve cavity, first limiting portion, second elastic member and first sealing member.

[0039] To achieve the fourth object of the present application, the present application further provides a printing device, comprising a printing assembly and an ink supply assembly, the printing assembly comprises an ink taking needle, the ink supply assembly is detachably mounted to the printing assembly, the ink supply assembly comprises the ink cartridge of any one of the above-mentioned solutions, and the ink taking needle is matched with the first ink supply port; or the ink supply assembly comprises the ink cartridge assembly of any one of the above-mentioned solutions, the ink taking needle is a plurality of, and the ink taking needle is matched with the first ink supply port and the second ink supply port one by one.

[0040] Compared with the prior art, the present application can achieve the following beneficial effects:

[0041] The ink cartridge of the present application increases the ink storage capacity in the ink cartridge by adding a second cavity beside the first cavity in the ink cartridge through the cooperation of the frame, the first cover body and the second cover body, and communicates the two cavities through the first channel and the second channel to stabilize the ink supply pressure. The ink cartridge filling and ink filling method of the present application is simple and convenient, and can also be used with small capacity ink cartridges. The two kinds of ink cartridges can be debugged and manufactured by using the same or similar materials and jigs, which is convenient for debugging, reduces the types of materials and reduces the process complexity. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0042] Figure 1 is a structural schematic diagram of an existing printing device.

[0043] Figure 2 is a structural schematic diagram of a combination of the first ink cartridge and the second ink cartridge in the embodiment of the present application.

[0044] Figure 3 is a structural schematic diagram of the first ink cartridge in the embodiment of the present application.

[0045] Figure 4 is Figure 3 a structural schematic diagram of a section A-A.

[0046] Figure 5 is an exploded structural schematic diagram of the first ink cartridge in the embodiment of the present application.

[0047] Figure 6 is an exploded structural schematic diagram of the first ink cartridge in another perspective in the embodiment of the present application.

[0048] Figure 7 is an exploded structural schematic diagram of the first valve assembly and the second valve assembly of the first ink cartridge in the embodiment of the present application.

[0049] Figure 8 is a structural schematic diagram of the second ink cartridge in the embodiment of the present application.

[0050] Figure 9 is Figure 8 a structural schematic diagram of a section B-B.

[0051] Figure 10 is an exploded structural schematic diagram of the second ink cartridge in the embodiment of the present application.

[0052] Figure 11 is an exploded structural schematic diagram of the second ink cartridge in another perspective in the embodiment of the present application.

[0053] In the figure, 10-printing assembly, 11-ink taking needle, 12-air pump, 20-ink cartridge, 100-first ink cartridge, 110-frame, 120-first frame, 121-first side frame, 122-first ink supply opening, L1-normal line of first ink supply opening, 123-first air vent, 124-second side frame, 125-connection groove, 126-first bottom wall, 127-first top wall, 128-first side wall, 130-baffle, 131-first channel, 132-second channel, 133-first baffle plate, 134-third channel, 135-second baffle plate, 136-fourth channel, 140-first cover body, 141-first cavity, 142-first ink storage cavity, 143-second ink storage cavity, 144-first wall, 150-second cover body, 151-second cavity, 152-third ink storage cavity, 153-fourth ink storage cavity, 154-second wall, 155-connection part, 160-first chip mounting part, 170-first valve assembly, 171-first air exchange channel, 172-first annular part, 173-first groove, 174-first guide column, 175-first air exchange groove, 176-first diaphragm, 177-first through hole, 178-first reinforcing part, 179-first elastic member, 180-first spring, 181-second spring, 182-first cover closing part, 183-first positioning part, 190-second valve assembly, 191-first limiting part, 192-first limiting plate, 193-second limiting plate, 194-second elastic member, 195-first sealing member, 200-second ink cartridge, 210-housing, 211-second frame, 212-second ink supply opening, L2-normal line of second ink supply opening, 213-second air vent, 214-housing plate, 215-third baffle plate, 216-fifth ink storage cavity, 217-sixth ink storage cavity, 218-fifth channel, 220-third cover body, 221-third cavity, 230-second chip mounting part, 240-third valve assembly, 241-second air exchange channel, 242-second annular part, 243-second groove, 244-second guide column, 245-second air exchange groove, 246-second diaphragm, 247-second through hole, 248-second reinforcing part, 249-third elastic member, 250-third spring, 251-fourth spring, 252-second cover closing part, 253-second positioning part, 260-fourth valve assembly, 261-second limiting part, 262-third limiting plate, 263-fourth limiting plate, 264-fourth elastic member, 265-second sealing member.

[0054] The application will be further described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] As Figures 2 to 11As shown, embodiments of the present application provide an ink cartridge with a large ink storage volume and stable ink supply pressure. The ink cartridge with a large ink storage volume (hereinafter referred to as first ink cartridge 100) can be used in cooperation with an ink cartridge with a small ink storage volume (hereinafter referred to as second ink cartridge 200) to supply ink to a print head of a printing device. The first ink cartridge 100 can be used to store black ink (BK or K), and the second ink cartridge 200 can be used to store color ink (CL), such as yellow ink (Y), cyan ink (C), and magenta ink (M).

[0056] Specifically, the first ink cartridge 100 includes a frame 110, a first cover 140, and a second cover 150. The frame 110, the first cover 140, and the second cover 150 constitute the main profile of the first ink cartridge 100. For example, the frame 110, the first cover 140, and the second cover 150 can be separately manufactured components that are combined by welding, bonding, clamping, or the like.

[0057] The frame 110 includes a first bezel 120 and a partition 130 disposed in the first bezel 120. The partition 130 can be connected to the inner wall of the first bezel 120, for example, the first bezel 120 can be integrally formed with the partition 130. The first bezel 120 includes a first side frame 121 and a second side frame 124 separated by the partition 130. The first side frame 121 is provided with a first ink supply port 122 for ink flow and a first air vent 123 for gas flow, such as air flow. The partition 130 is provided with a first passage 131 and a second passage 132 that pass through the partition 130.

[0058] The first cover 140 is connected to the first side frame 121, for example, at the end of the first side frame 121 away from the partition 130. The first cover 140, the first side frame 121, and the partition 130 enclose a first chamber 141, which can be used to store ink. The first ink supply port 122 is in communication with the first chamber 141, so that ink can enter or flow out of the first chamber 141 from the first ink supply port 122.

[0059] The second cover 150 is connected to the second side frame 124, for example, at the end of the second side frame 124 away from the partition 130. The second cover 150, the second side frame 124, and the partition 130 enclose a second chamber 151, which can be used to store ink. The first passage 131 is in communication with the first chamber 141 and the second chamber 151, so that ink can flow between the first chamber 141 and the second chamber 151. The second passage 132 is in communication with the first air vent 123 and the second chamber 151, so that gas can enter the second chamber 151 to maintain the pressure balance in the first ink cartridge 100.

[0060] The first ink cartridge 100 of the embodiment is internally provided with a partition plate 130 inside the ink storage chamber, which divides the ink chamber into a first chamber 141 and a second chamber 151, and the first ink supply port 122 and the first air vent 123 are arranged on the wall of the first chamber 141. This separation facilitates the internal chamber structure of the first chamber 141 to be consistent with that of the second ink cartridge 200, and the consistent structure is equipped with the same parameters of materials, which is convenient for production and debugging. At the same time, the second chamber 151 serves as a secondary ink storage chamber, which increases the ink storage volume of the first ink cartridge 100, so that the first ink cartridge 100 as a whole can store more ink.

[0061] The first ink cartridge 100 of the embodiment is internally provided with a partition plate 130 inside the ink storage chamber, which divides the ink chamber into a first chamber 141 and a second chamber 151, and the first ink supply port 122 and the first air vent 123 are arranged on the wall of the first chamber 141. This separation facilitates the internal chamber structure of the first chamber 141 to be consistent with that of the second ink cartridge 200, and the consistent structure is equipped with the same parameters of materials, which is convenient for production and debugging. At the same time, the second chamber 151 serves as a secondary ink storage chamber, which increases the ink storage volume of the first ink cartridge 100, so that the first ink cartridge 100 as a whole can store more ink.

[0062] As can be seen from the above, the new structure of the first ink cartridge 100 of the embodiment can effectively maintain the internal pressure balance even in the case of large ink capacity, and avoid ink leakage of the first ink cartridge 100 in a long-term stationary state.

[0063] In some examples, the aperture of the first channel 131 is in the range of 1mm to 2mm. When the aperture of the first channel 131 is in the above range, the ink or gas flow space is limited when the fluid in the first chamber 141 and the second chamber 151 passes through the first channel 131, the interaction between fluid molecules is enhanced, and the flow becomes more orderly, thereby approaching a single flow state, and gas-liquid exchange does not occur, which eliminates the back pressure formed inside the first ink cartridge 100 and is beneficial to pressure stabilization.

[0064] In some examples, the aperture of the second channel 132 is also in the range of 1mm to 2mm, so that the ink or gas flow space in the second channel 132 is limited, and the flow becomes more orderly, which is beneficial to pressure stabilization.

[0065] In some examples, the first cover 140 includes a first wall 144 parallel to the normal line L1 of the first ink supply opening 122, the second cover 150 includes a second wall 154 parallel to the normal line L1 of the first ink supply opening 122, and the partition plate 130 is parallel to the normal line L1 of the first ink supply opening 122, so that the first ink cartridge 100 is regular in shape, facilitating storage, transportation and use of the first ink cartridge 100, and the first wall 144, the second wall 154 and the partition plate 130 do not shield the first ink supply opening 122 on the inner side of the first ink supply opening 122, and the first chamber 141 is straight to the first ink supply opening 122, which helps to reduce the flow resistance of the ink. The normal line L1 of the first ink supply opening 122 refers to a straight line perpendicular to the plane where the first ink supply opening 122 is located, and the normal line L1 of the first ink supply opening 122 can be a virtual straight line located in the middle of the first ink supply opening 122.

[0066] In some examples, the second cover 150 includes a connecting portion 155 connected with the second wall 154 in addition to the second wall 154, and the connecting portion 155 can be bent relative to the second wall 154. The second wall 154 is arranged parallel to the partition plate 130, and the second wall 154 is connected with the edge of the second side frame 124, and the second side frame 124 is further provided with a connecting groove 125, which can be arranged on the side surface of the second side frame 124. The connecting portion 155 cooperates with the connecting groove 125 to facilitate positioning of the second cover 150 and the second side frame 124.

[0067] In some examples, the first cover 140 and the second cover 150 are further respectively provided with a protrusion extending towards the partition plate 130, and the protrusion is adjacent to the first frame 120. The protrusion can facilitate positioning and improve structural stability.

[0068] In some examples, the first side frame 121 and the second side frame 124 respectively include opposite first bottom wall 126 and first top wall 127 and two first side walls 128 connecting the first bottom wall 126 and the first top wall 127. The first ink supply port 122 and the first air vent port 123 are arranged on the same first side wall 128 of the first side frame 121, which can be the face of the first ink cartridge 100 engaged with the print assembly 10 in the installation direction. Among them, the first bottom wall 126 and the first top wall 127 are determined with respect to the up-down positional relationship of the first ink cartridge 100 when installed in the printing device. The first ink cartridge 100 can have a substantially flat hexahedral shape, such as a substantially cuboid shape. In some examples, the distance between the first bottom wall 126 and the first top wall 127 is the height direction of the first ink cartridge 100, the distance between the two first side walls 128 is the width direction of the first ink cartridge 100, and the distance between the first wall 144 and the second wall 154 is the length direction of the first ink cartridge 100. The length direction size of the first ink cartridge 100 can be greater than the width direction size of the first ink cartridge 100 and the height direction size of the first ink cartridge 100, respectively, and the height direction size of the first ink cartridge 100 can be greater than the width direction size of the first ink cartridge 100. While increasing the size of the first ink cartridge 100, it does not affect the cooperation of the first ink cartridge 100 with the print assembly 10 of the existing printing device.

[0069] In some examples, the first ink supply port 122 is closer to the first bottom wall 126 than the first air vent port 123, which facilitates the ink to collect in the first ink supply port 122 under the action of gravity.

[0070] In some examples, the first passage 131 is arranged close to the first bottom wall 126, which facilitates the ink in the second chamber 151 to collect in the first passage 131 and enter the first chamber 141 under the action of gravity, so that the ink in the second chamber 151 is consumed as much as possible during use, reducing ink residue.

[0071] In some examples, the first ink supply port 122 is arranged close to the bottom wall, which facilitates the ink in the first chamber 141 to collect in the first ink supply port 122 under the action of gravity, so that the ink in the first chamber 141 is consumed as much as possible during use, reducing ink residue.

[0072] In some examples, the first channel 131 is arranged close to a first side wall 128 away from the first ink supply port 122, and the distance between the first channel 131 and the first side wall 128 is less than the distance between the first channel 131 and another first side wall 128. That is, the first ink supply port 122 and the first air vent 123 are arranged on one of the two first side walls 128, and the first channel 131 is arranged close to the other of the two first side walls 128. The first channel 131 is arranged away from the first ink supply port 122, so that when the ink is nearly used up, the gas enters the first chamber 141 from the first channel 131, avoiding the gas affecting the ink supply of the first ink supply port 122, and the first channel 131 arranged away from the first ink supply port 122 is also conducive to filling the ink, and the first ink supply port 122 is usually upward during the filling operation, at this time, the first channel 131 is located below the first ink supply port 122, and the bottom in this placement state facilitates the automatic operation, avoids ink leakage during the material movement, and also facilitates the ink to fill the first chamber 141 and the second chamber 151.

[0073] In some examples, the first ink cartridge 100 further comprises a first chip mounting portion 160 for mounting a chip, and the first chip mounting portion 160 can be connected to the frame 110, the first cover 140 or the second cover 150, and when the first ink cartridge 100 is mounted to the printing device, the chip of the first chip mounting portion 160 can be in contact with the electrical contact of the printing device.

[0074] In some examples, the frame 110 further comprises a first baffle 133 connected to the partition plate 130 and in contact with the first cover 140, and the first baffle 133 divides the first chamber 141 into a first ink storage chamber 142 and a second ink storage chamber 143, and the first ink supply port 122 communicates with the first ink storage chamber 142. The first baffle 133 is arranged between the partition plate 130 and the first cover 140, can play a blocking role, increases the chamber division, and makes the pressure in the first ink cartridge 100 more stable, and the first baffle 133 can also play a supporting role, increasing the structural stability of the first chamber 141. The first baffle 133 is provided with at least one third channel 134, and the third channel 134 communicates the first ink storage chamber 142 and the second ink storage chamber 143, so that the ink or gas in the first ink storage chamber 142 and the second ink storage chamber 143 can flow.

[0075] In some examples, the at least one third channel 134 is arranged close to the first ink supply port 122, so that the ink flowing out of the second ink storage chamber 143 can directly flow to the first ink supply port 122 of the first ink storage chamber 142, which is helpful for stabilizing the ink supply.

[0076] In some examples, the frame 110 further comprises a second baffle 135 connected to the partition 130 and in contact with the second cover 150, the second baffle 135 divides the second chamber 151 into a third ink storage chamber 152 and a fourth ink storage chamber 153. The third ink storage chamber 152 is adjacent to the first ink storage chamber 142, and the first channel 131 communicates the first ink storage chamber 142 and the third ink storage chamber 152. The second baffle 135 is arranged between the partition 130 and the second cover 150, which can play a blocking role, increase the chamber division, and make the pressure in the first ink cartridge 100 more stable. The second baffle 135 can also play a supporting role, increasing the structural stability of the second chamber 151. The second baffle 135 is provided with at least one fourth channel 136, which communicates the third ink storage chamber 152 and the fourth ink storage chamber 153, so that the ink or gas in the third ink storage chamber 152 and the fourth ink storage chamber 153 can flow.

[0077] In some examples, a plurality of other baffles similar to the first baffle 133 can be arranged in the first chamber 141, and a plurality of other baffles similar to the second baffle 135 can also be arranged in the second chamber 151. The baffles further support the first wall 144 and the second wall 154, prevent the first wall 144 and the second wall 154 from being inwardly depressed and extruded by external force, and reduce the pressure of the ink on the first ink supply port 122, guiding the bubbles to move away from the first ink supply port 122.

[0078] In some examples, the first baffle 133 extends from one side of the first ink supply port 122 to a direction away from the first ink supply port 122. One end of the first baffle 133 can be tangent to or connected to the upper edge of the first ink supply port 122, and the other end of the first baffle 133 can be connected to the first side wall 128 away from the first ink supply port 122. The distance from the first baffle 133 to the first bottom wall 126 increases as the distance from the first baffle 133 to the first ink supply port 122 increases. The first baffle 133 is inclined in a direction away from the normal line of the first ink supply port 122 in a direction away from the first ink supply port 122, which can effectively guide the accumulated bubbles at the first ink supply port 122 to move upward along the first baffle 133, ensuring smooth ink supply.

[0079] In some examples, the second baffle 135 extends from a position close to the first ink supply port 122 to a direction away from the first ink supply port 122. The second baffle 135 is inclined in a direction away from the normal line of the first ink supply port 122 in a direction away from the first ink supply port 122, so as to guide the bubbles.

[0080] In some examples, the first vent 123 is arranged on the wall of the second ink storage chamber 143, the second channel 132 is arranged on the partition 130 between the second ink storage chamber 143 and the fourth ink storage chamber 153, and the connection structure between the first vent 123 and the second channel 132 is located in the second ink storage chamber 143, which reasonably utilizes the space of each ink storage chamber.

[0081] In some examples, the first ink cartridge 100 further comprises a first valve assembly 170, the first valve assembly 170 is disposed between the first vent 123 and the second channel 132, the first valve assembly 170 is disposed in the first chamber 141, the first valve assembly 170 is configured to connect or disconnect the first vent 123 and the second channel 132 under pressure, for example, different air pressure or ink suction. When the first ink cartridge 100 is in printing operation, the suction of the ink needle 11 and / or the inflation of the inflation pump 12 causes the first valve assembly 170 to open, and gas, for example, air, is replenished to the second chamber 151 through the first vent 123, the first valve assembly 170, and the second channel 132. The ink in the second chamber 151 is replenished to the first ink outlet 122 through the first channel 131, the first chamber 141, and the first ink outlet 122, achieving smooth printing. When the first ink cartridge 100 is in a stationary state in the printing device, the first valve assembly 170 is in a closed state, the fluid connection between the first vent 123 and the second channel 132 is disconnected, and the first channel 131 is submerged in the ink. The first channel 131 is also equivalent to a closed state. The only external communication in the printing device is the ejection hole on the nozzle, and the ink in the ejection hole is suspended at the ejection hole under the action of capillary force, surface tension, viscous force, suction force generated by back pressure in the first ink cartridge 100, and its own gravity, thereby achieving no ink dripping in a stationary state.

[0082] In some examples, the first ink cartridge 100 further comprises a second valve assembly 190, the second valve assembly 190 is disposed in the first chamber 141, and the second valve assembly 190 is configured to connect or disconnect the first ink outlet 122 and the first chamber 141 under external force. The external force refers to the force exerted on the second valve assembly 190 by other components independent of the first ink cartridge 100, for example, the ink needle 11 in the printing device, and the external force can not include air pressure. During storage and transportation of the first ink cartridge 100, the second valve assembly 190 closes the first ink outlet 122, and the fluid connection between the first ink outlet 122 and the first chamber 141 is disconnected, avoiding ink leakage. When the first ink cartridge 100 is in printing operation, the ink needle 11 exerts a force on the second valve assembly 190, and the first ink outlet 122 and the first chamber 141 are connected, and the ink can flow out of the first ink outlet 122.

[0083] In some examples, the first valve assembly 170 includes a first air passage 171, a first annular portion 172, a first guide column 174, a first diaphragm 176, and a first elastic member 179. The first air passage 171, the first annular portion 172, and the first guide column 174 are respectively arranged on the partition plate 130 or on the first cover 140, facilitating the manufacturing, positioning, and assembly of the first valve assembly 170. In the present embodiment, the first air passage 171, the first annular portion 172, and the first guide column 174 are respectively arranged on the partition plate 130, and the first air passage 171, the first annular portion 172, and the first guide column 174 can be integrally formed with the partition plate 130. The first annular portion 172 has a first valve cavity formed therein and separated from the first chamber 141, and the first valve cavity can be cylindrical. The first diaphragm 176 is located in the first valve cavity, and the first diaphragm 176 has a first through hole 177 in the middle thereof and is connected to the first annular portion 172 at the edge thereof. The first diaphragm 176 is deformable and can move along the first guide column 174, and the first diaphragm 176 can be made of rubber material. The first guide column 174 has a first air passage groove 175 formed in the middle thereof, and the first air passage groove 175 has a cylindrical surface at both ends thereof. When the first diaphragm 176 moves to the first air passage groove 175, gas flows in the first air passage groove 175, and when the first diaphragm 176 moves to the outside of both ends of the first air passage groove 175, the first diaphragm 176 blocks the flow of gas in the first valve cavity. The first elastic member 179 is arranged between the partition plate 130 and the first diaphragm 176, and the first elastic member 179 is used to restore the first diaphragm 176 to its original state after deformation. The first air passage 171 has a first end connected to the first air vent 123 and a second end connected to the first annular portion 172 and located on the first side of the first diaphragm 176. One end of the first annular portion 172, for example, the end away from the partition plate 130, can be provided with a notch connected to the second end of the first air passage 171. The second passage 132 is connected to the first annular portion 172 and the second chamber 151 and is located on the second side of the first diaphragm 176. With the above structure, one end of the first valve assembly 170 is connected to the first air vent 123, the first valve assembly 170 is connected to the second chamber 151, the first diaphragm 176 makes the first valve assembly 170 in a closed state at the start and end points, and the first diaphragm 176 makes the first valve assembly 170 in an open state when moving between the start and end points. In some examples, the first diaphragm 176 generates positive or negative pressure in the first ink cartridge 100 in the closed state by deformation, and allows fluid to move in the first ink cartridge 100 in the open state.

[0084] In some examples, the first valve assembly 170 further comprises a first cover portion 182, which is arranged on one of the first cover body 140 and the partition plate 130, and the first annular portion 172 is arranged on the other one of the first cover body 140 and the partition plate 130. The first cover portion 182 is configured to cooperate with the first annular portion 172 to form the first valve cavity. In the present embodiment, in the width direction of the first ink cartridge 100, the size of the first annular portion 172 is greater than the size of the first cover portion 182, and the size of the first annular portion 172 can be close to the size of the first frame 120. The first cover portion 182 is arranged on the first cover body 140, and the first annular portion 172 is arranged on the partition plate 130, which helps to simplify the mold design. The first annular portion 172 is internally provided with a first recess 173, which is recessed towards the side where the partition plate 130 is located relative to the end of the first annular portion 172. The edge of the first diaphragm 176 is located in the first recess 173, and the first cover portion 182 covers the outside of the first recess 173 and is in contact with the edge of the first diaphragm 176. The above structure realizes the detachable installation of the first diaphragm 176.

[0085] In some examples, the first valve assembly 170 further comprises a first positioning portion 183, which is arranged on the partition plate 130. The first positioning portion 183 is in contact with the end of the first elastic member 179 away from the first diaphragm 176, and the first positioning portion 183 is configured to position the end of the first elastic member 179.

[0086] In some examples, the first elastic member 179 comprises a first spring 180 and a second spring 181. The first spring 180 is sleeved outside the first guide column 174, and the second spring 181 is sleeved outside the first spring 180. The first spring 180 and the second spring 181 are respectively in contact with the first diaphragm 176. The first spring 180 is configured to promote the deformation recovery of the middle part of the first diaphragm 176, and the second spring 181 is configured to promote the deformation recovery of the part of the first diaphragm 176 from the middle to the edge, so as to avoid the slow rebound or the inability to rebound to the original position of the part of the diaphragm, thereby affecting the pressure control.

[0087] In some examples, the middle part of the first diaphragm 176 comprises a first reinforcing portion 178 arranged around the first through hole 177. The reinforcing portion 178 can be a thickened annular structure, which avoids the deformation of the middle part of the first diaphragm 176 and affects the gas flow.

[0088] In some examples, the first annular portion 172 is tangent to the first baffle 133. The third passage 134 is at least two, and the at least two third passages 134 are respectively located at two sides of the first annular portion 172, so as to facilitate the ink in the second ink storage cavity 143 divided by the first annular portion 172 to be communicated to the first ink storage chamber 142 respectively. In other examples, the first annular portion 172 and the first baffle 133 can have a gap therebetween, and the third passage 134 can be one. In some examples, the second passage 132 is aligned with the inner bottom end of the first annular portion 172, the inner bottom end of the first annular portion 172 refers to the bottom end of the first ink cartridge 100 in the first valve cavity in the up-down direction when the first ink cartridge 100 is installed, so that the gas starts to gather at the top end of the first valve cavity, and the ink enters the second chamber 151 from the second passage 132 under the action of gravity, facilitating the ink in the first valve cavity to be exhausted. In other examples, the second passage 132 can also be located in the middle of the first annular portion 172 or at the top end of the first annular portion 172.

[0089] In some examples, the partition plate 130 can further be provided with a first gas guide groove, the first gas guide groove extending from the second passage 132 to the first guide column 174, and the first elastic member 179 is arranged outside the first gas guide groove. The gas can enter the second passage 132 along the first gas guide groove, avoiding the first elastic member 179 affecting the gas flow.

[0090] In some examples, the second valve assembly 190 includes a first limiting portion 191, a second elastic member 194 and a first sealing member 195. The first limiting portion 191 is arranged on the partition plate 130 or the first cover 140, and the first sealing member 195 is movably matched with the first ink supply opening 122. The first sealing member 195 can be moved to a position closing or opening the first ink supply opening 122, and the first sealing member 195 can be spherical. The second elastic member 194 is connected between the first limiting portion 191 and the first sealing member 195. The second elastic member 194 is used to press the first sealing member 195 to the first ink supply opening 122 to close the first ink supply opening 122 when no external force is applied, and to deform to drive the first sealing member 195 to move and open the first ink supply opening 122 when an external force, such as an acting force applied from the outside of the first ink supply opening 122 to the first sealing member 195, is applied.

[0091] In some examples, the first limiting part 191 includes a first limiting plate 192 and a second limiting plate 193, which are respectively arranged on one of the partition plate 130 or the first cover 140 and have a gap with the other one of the partition plate 130 or the first cover 140, and the gap allows the ink to flow. The first limiting plate 192 is arranged on the normal line L1 of the first ink supply port 122, and the first limiting plate 192 is used to connect with the end of the second elastic member 194. The second limiting plate 193 is parallel to the normal line L1 of the first ink supply port 122, and the second limiting plate 193 is used to prevent the second elastic member 194 from deforming in other directions such as the radial direction.

[0092] In some examples, the present embodiment also provides an ink injection method of the above-mentioned first ink cartridge 100, which includes drawing air from the first ink supply port 122 to form a negative pressure in the first ink cartridge 100, and then injecting ink into the first ink cartridge 100 from the first ink supply port 122. The production process is simple and convenient to operate by using the first ink supply port 122 for negative pressure filling. The injection needle of the ink injection machine draws air in the first ink cartridge 100 through the first ink supply port 122, and the pressure difference generated by air drawing causes the first valve assembly 170 to be in a closed state, for example, the first diaphragm 176 moves to the outside of the first air exchange groove 175 and is close to the partition plate 130, and the first diaphragm 176 blocks the gas flow. Compared with the traditional one-way valve structure, the high vacuum in the first ink cartridge 100 can be achieved without adopting auxiliary processes such as plugging the communication hole of the one-way valve with the outside, and then the negative pressure filling is achieved, which avoids the air blockage phenomenon of the second chamber 151 during the positive pressure filling, thereby avoiding the filling failure. When the ink is injected, because the first air exchange groove 175 is short in length, for example, less than 3 mm, and small in cross-sectional size, for example, less than 1 mm in radial size, the first diaphragm 176 will quickly cross the first air exchange groove 175, and the ink is not easy to leak from the first air exchange groove 175.

[0093] In some examples, the fourth channel 136 of the first ink cartridge 100 is at least two, and the at least two fourth channels 136 are arranged in a direction away from the first ink supply port 122, which facilitates the ink to enter the fourth ink storage chamber 153 from the third ink storage chamber 152 during the ink injection.

[0094] In some examples, the present embodiment also provides an ink cartridge assembly, which includes the first ink cartridge 100 and at least one second ink cartridge 200, the second ink cartridge 200 is adjacent to the first cover 140 of the first ink cartridge 100, and the distance between the second ink cartridge 200 and the second cover 150 is greater than the distance between the second ink cartridge 200 and the first cover 140. When the second ink cartridge 200 is multiple, the multiple second ink cartridges 200 are arranged side by side outside the first cover 140 of the first ink cartridge 100.

[0095] The second ink cartridge 200 comprises a shell 210 and a third cover 220. The main body of the second ink cartridge 200 can be assembled by welding, bonding, clamping, etc. from the separately manufactured shell 210 and third cover 220.

[0096] The shell 210 comprises a second frame 211 and a shell plate 214 connected to the first side end of the second frame 211. The second frame 211 and the shell plate 214 can be integrally formed, and the second frame 211 and the shell plate 214 form a box-shaped structure with an opening. The second frame 211 is provided with a second ink supply port 212 and a second air vent 213. The second ink supply port 212 is used for ink supply, and the second air vent 213 is used for gas flow.

[0097] The third cover 220 is connected to the second side end of the second frame 211. The third cover 220, the second frame 211 and the shell plate 214 form a third chamber 221. The second ink supply port 212 and the second air vent 213 respectively lead to the third chamber 221.

[0098] The second frame 211 has the same structure as the first side frame 121 and is aligned with each other. The second ink supply port 212 is aligned with the first ink supply port 122, and the second air vent 213 is aligned with the first air vent 123. The first chamber 141 of the first ink cartridge 100 and the third chamber 221 of the second ink cartridge 200 have consistent structures, which can be equipped with the same parameters of the jig and other materials, saving materials, facilitating production and processing and debugging, and being conducive to keeping the pressure control of the first ink cartridge 100 and the second ink cartridge 200 consistent. The third cover 220 has the same structure as the first cover 140. The third cover 220 corresponds to the first cover 140. The shell 210 is adjacent to the first cover 140. The third cover 220 is farther away from the first cover 140 relative to the shell 210. The third cover 220 and the first cover 140 can be processed by the same mold, saving cost.

[0099] In some examples, the normal line L2 of the second ink supply port 212 is parallel to the normal line L1 of the first ink supply port 122, facilitating the installation of the ink cartridge assembly. The shell plate 214 is parallel to the normal line L2 of the second ink supply port 212, and the third cover 220 is parallel to the normal line L2 of the second ink supply port 212, facilitating smooth flow of ink. The normal line L2 of the second ink supply port 212 refers to a straight line perpendicular to the plane where the second ink supply port 212 is located. The normal line L2 of the second ink supply port 212 can be a virtual straight line located in the middle of the second ink supply port 212.

[0100] In some examples, the shell 210 further comprises a third baffle 215 connected to the shell plate 214 and in contact with the third cover 220, the third baffle 215 divides the third chamber 221 into a fifth ink storage chamber 216 and a sixth ink storage chamber 217, and the third baffle 215 can play a role of blocking and supporting. The second ink supply port 212 communicates with the fifth ink storage chamber 216, and the third baffle 215 is provided with at least one fifth passage 218, the fifth passage 218 communicates the fifth ink storage chamber 216 and the sixth ink storage chamber 217, so that the fluid between the fifth ink storage chamber 216 and the sixth ink storage chamber 217 can flow. The at least one fifth passage 218 is arranged close to the second ink supply port 212, which is conducive to the ink flow of the sixth ink storage chamber 217 to the second ink supply port 212. The second air vent 213 is arranged on the wall of the sixth ink storage chamber 217, and the layout is reasonable.

[0101] In some examples, the third baffle 215 extends from one side of the second ink supply port 212 to a direction away from the second ink supply port 212, and the third baffle 215 is inclined in a direction away from the normal line of the second ink supply port 212 in a direction away from the second ink supply port 212, which is conducive to guiding the bubbles away from the second ink supply port 212.

[0102] In some examples, the third baffle 215 has the same structure as the first baffle 133 and corresponds in position, and the consistent structure is equipped with the same parameter material jig, which is conducive to production processing and debugging.

[0103] In some examples, the second ink cartridge 200 further comprises a third valve assembly 240 and a fourth valve assembly 260. The third valve assembly 240 is arranged in the third chamber 221, and the third valve assembly 240 is configured to communicate or disconnect the first air vent 123 and the third chamber 221 under pressure, such as different air pressure or ink suction force. The fourth valve assembly 260 is arranged in the first chamber 141, and the fourth valve assembly 260 is configured to communicate or disconnect the second ink supply port 212 and the third chamber 221 under external force, such as the force applied by the ink taking needle 11.

[0104] In some examples, the third valve assembly 240 includes a second air passage 241, a second annular portion 242, a second guide column 244, a second diaphragm 246, and a third elastic member 249. The second air passage 241, the second annular portion 242, and the second guide column 244 are respectively arranged on the shell plate 214 or on the third cover 220. In the present embodiment, the second air passage 241, the second annular portion 242, and the second guide column 244 are arranged on the third cover 220. The second annular portion 242 forms a second valve cavity separated from the third cavity 221, and the second diaphragm 246 is arranged in the second valve cavity. The second diaphragm 246 is connected to the second annular portion 242 at the edge thereof, and has a second through hole 247 in the middle thereof. The second through hole 247 cooperates with the second guide column 244. The second diaphragm 246 is deformable and movable along the second guide column 244. The second guide column 244 has a second air passage groove 245 in the middle thereof, and the outer sides of both ends of the second air passage groove 245 are the columnar surfaces of the second guide column 244. The third elastic member 249 is arranged between the shell plate 214 and the second diaphragm 246. The first end of the second air passage 241 is connected to the second air vent 213, and the second end of the second air passage 241 is connected to the second annular portion 242 and located on the first side of the second diaphragm 246. The second annular portion 242 is provided with a sixth passage. The sixth passage connects the second valve cavity and the third cavity 221. For example, the sixth passage can be arranged at the bottom end of the second annular portion 242, and the sixth passage connects the second valve cavity and the fifth ink storage cavity 216. Alternatively, the sixth passage can be arranged at the bottom end, the side end, or the top end of the second annular portion 242, and the sixth passage connects the second valve cavity and the sixth ink storage cavity 217. The sixth passage is open to the second side of the second diaphragm 246. The third valve assembly 240 can further include a second air guide groove extending from the sixth passage to the second guide column 244, and the third elastic member 249 is located outside the second air guide groove. The third valve assembly 240 has a similar structure to the first valve assembly 170 and has a similar pressure control effect.

[0105] In some examples, the fourth valve assembly 260 includes a second limiting portion 261, a fourth elastic member 264, and a second sealing member 265. The second limiting portion 261 is arranged on the shell plate 214 or the third cover 220. The second sealing member 265 is movably connected to the second ink supply opening 212. The fourth elastic member 264 is connected between the second limiting portion 261 and the second sealing member 265. The second sealing member 265 can be spherical, for example. The fourth valve assembly 260 is used to close or open the second ink supply opening 212.

[0106] In some examples, the third valve assembly 240 further comprises a second cover 252 arranged on one of the third cover 220 and the shell plate 214, and the second annular portion 242 is arranged on the other one of the third cover 220 and the shell plate 214. In the embodiment, the second cover 252 is arranged on the third cover 220, and the second annular portion 242 is arranged on the shell plate 214. The second annular portion 242 is provided with a second groove 243, and the second diaphragm 246 is arranged in the second groove 243. The second cover 252 covers the outside of the second groove 243 and is in contact with the edge of the second diaphragm 246, thereby achieving detachable installation of the second diaphragm 246.

[0107] In some examples, the third valve assembly 240 further comprises a second positioning portion 253 arranged on the shell plate 214. The second positioning portion 253 is in contact with the end of the third elastic member 249 away from the second diaphragm 246, and the second positioning portion 253 is used for positioning the third elastic member 249.

[0108] In some examples, the third elastic member 249 comprises a third spring 250 and a fourth spring 251. The third spring 250 is sleeved outside the second guide column 244, and the fourth spring 251 is sleeved outside the third spring 250. The third spring 250 and the fourth spring 251 are respectively in contact with the second diaphragm 246. The use of two springs can achieve uniform deformation and recovery of each part of the second diaphragm 246.

[0109] In some examples, the second diaphragm 246 comprises a second reinforcing portion 248 arranged around the second through hole 247. The reinforcing portion 248 can be a thickened annular structure.

[0110] In some examples, the second annular portion 242 is tangent to the third baffle 215. The fifth channel 218 is at least two, and the at least two fifth channels 218 are respectively arranged on both sides of the second annular portion 242, so as to facilitate the ink in the sixth ink storage cavity 217 separated by the second annular portion 242 to be respectively communicated to the fifth ink storage cavity 216. In other examples, the second annular portion 242 can have a gap with the third baffle 215, and the fifth channel 218 can be one.

[0111] In some examples, the second limiting portion 261 comprises a third limiting plate 262 and a fourth limiting plate 263. The third limiting plate 262 and the fourth limiting plate 263 are respectively arranged on one of the shell plate 214 or the third cover 220 and have a gap with the other one of the shell plate 214 or the third cover 220. The third limiting plate 262 is arranged on the normal line L2 of the second ink supply port 212, and the fourth limiting plate 263 is parallel to the normal line L2 of the second ink supply port 212. The third limiting plate 262 and the fourth limiting plate 263 are used for limiting the fourth elastic member 264.

[0112] In some examples, the second ink cartridge 200 further comprises a second chip mounting portion 230, which is arranged on the housing 210 or the third cover 220. The second chip mounting portion 230 is identical in structure to the first chip mounting portion 160 and corresponds in position.

[0113] In some examples, the third chamber 221 is identical in structure to the first chamber 141 and corresponds in position, the second air exchange channel 241 is identical in structure to the first air exchange channel 171 and corresponds in position, the second guide column 244 is identical in structure to the first guide column 174 and corresponds in position, the second diaphragm 246 is identical in structure to the first diaphragm 176 and corresponds in position, the third elastic member 249 is identical in structure to the first elastic member 179 and corresponds in position, the second valve cavity is identical in structure to the first valve cavity and corresponds in position, the second limiting portion 261 is identical in structure to the first limiting portion 191 and corresponds in position, the fourth elastic member 264 is identical in structure to the second elastic member 194 and corresponds in position, and the second sealing member 265 is identical in structure to the first sealing member 195 and corresponds in position. Corresponding in position can include that the above-mentioned components are aligned in the width direction of the ink cartridge. With the above-mentioned structure, the first ink cartridge 100 and the second ink cartridge 200 can be assembled with the same components, such as the same cover, elastic member, and sealing member. The mold that can be used by the frame 110 and the housing 210 can have partially the same design, which can save materials and jigs and facilitate production and debugging, and is conducive to keeping the ink pressure in different ink cartridges stable.

[0114] In some examples, the present embodiment further provides a printing device, which comprises a printing assembly 10 and an ink supply assembly, as shown in the following figure. Figure 1 The printing assembly 10 can be a printing assembly 10 in an existing printing device, and the printing device provided by the present embodiment is to apply the ink cartridge of the present embodiment to the existing printing device. In other examples, the printing assembly can also be other printing assemblies similar in structure to the printing assembly in the existing printing device.

[0115] The printing assembly 10 comprises a ink taking needle 11, and the ink supply assembly is detachably mounted to the printing assembly 10, and the ink supply assembly comprises the first ink cartridge 100, and the ink taking needle 11 cooperates with the first ink supply port 122; or the ink supply assembly comprises an ink cartridge assembly, and the ink taking needle 11 is a plurality of ink taking needles 11, and the ink taking needle 11 cooperates with the first ink supply port 122 of the first ink cartridge 100 and the second ink supply port 212 of the second ink cartridge 200 one by one.

[0116] In some examples, the printing assembly 10 further comprises an inflation pump 12 cooperating with the first air vent 123 and / or the second air vent 213. The inflation pump 12 is configured to provide gas into the ink cartridge to control the pressure in the ink cartridge. There can be multiple inflation pumps 12, each corresponding to one of the first air vent 123 and the second air vent 213. When the first ink cartridge 100 and / or the second ink cartridge 200 is installed into the printing assembly 10, the ink needle 11 is inserted into the corresponding first ink supply port 122 and the second ink supply port 212 in a direction opposite to the installation direction of the first ink cartridge 100 and / or the second ink cartridge 200, so as to take ink and supply to the print head. At the same time, the inflation pump 12 is inserted into the corresponding first air vent 123 and the second air vent 213, so as to inflate the first ink cartridge 100 and / or the second ink cartridge 200, forcing the ink in the first ink cartridge 100 and / or the second ink cartridge 200 to flow out of the corresponding first ink supply port 122 and the second ink supply port 212 under pressure, achieving ink priming.

[0117] In the description of the present application, it needs to be understood that, unless specifically defined and limited otherwise, the terms "port", "hole", "channel", "notch" and the like can be a hole, a hole, an opening or a notch of any length and any extension direction in any regular or irregular shape.

[0118] Unless specifically defined and limited otherwise, the terms "center", "middle", "longitudinal", "transverse", "length", "width", "thickness", "height", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "axial", "radial", "circumferential" and the like indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, which is only for the convenience of describing the present application and simplifying the description, and does not indicate or imply that the indicated device or element must have a particular orientation, be constructed and operated in a particular orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as a limitation on the present application.

[0119] Unless specifically defined and limited otherwise, the terms "first", "second", "third", "fourth", "fifth", "sixth" and the like are only for descriptive purposes and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or implying the number of the indicated technical features.

[0120] Unless specifically defined and limited otherwise, the terms "mounting", "connecting", "connecting", "fixing" and the like should be interpreted broadly, for example, it can be fixed connection, or detachable connection, or integral; it can be directly connected, or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium, or it can be the internal connection of two elements or the interaction relationship between two elements.

[0121] Unless specifically stated and otherwise apparent from context, terms such as "leading to", "communicating with", and the like, are to be construed in a broad sense, for example, can be direct communication, or indirect communication via one or more intermediaries, which can control the state of communication or disconnection.

[0122] Unless specifically stated and otherwise apparent from context, terms such as "close to", "next to", "adjacent to", "abut", and the like, are to be construed in a broad sense, for example, can be in contact, or can be separated by a small distance, for example, the distance can be less than 2 cm, less than 1 cm, less than 5 mm, less than 2 mm, etc.

[0123] The description of the term "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "an example", "a specific example", or "some examples" is intended to indicate that the feature(s), structure(s), material(s), or characteristic(s) of the embodiment or example so described is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present application. Therefore, use of the terms "in one embodiment", "in some embodiments", "in an example", "in a specific example", or "in some examples" having referent inclusion in more than one embodiment or example of the present application does not mean that the feature(s), structure(s), material(s), or characteristic(s) so described is included in all embodiments or examples of the present application. Furthermore, the description of the term "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "an example", "a specific example", or "some examples" does not mean that the feature(s), structure(s), material(s), or characteristic(s) so described is necessarily included in all embodiments or examples of the present application. Furthermore, the description of the term "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "an example", "a specific example", or "some examples" does not mean that the feature(s), structure(s), material(s), or characteristic(s) so described is necessarily excluded in all embodiments or examples of the present application.

[0124] Finally, it is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Many embodiments of the application will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of the application should, therefore, be determined not with reference to the above description, but should instead be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with their full scope of equivalents.

Claims

1. An ink cartridge, characterized in that... include: A frame, the frame including a first frame and a partition disposed in the first frame, the first frame including a first side frame and a second side frame separated by the partition, the first side frame being provided with a first ink supply port and a first vent, the partition being provided with a first channel and a second channel; A first cover body, the first cover body being connected to the first side frame, the first cover body, the first side frame, and the partition plate forming a first chamber, and the first ink supply port being connected to the first chamber; The second cover is connected to the second side frame. The second cover, the second side frame, and the partition form a second chamber. The first channel connects the first chamber and the second chamber, and the second channel connects the first vent and the second chamber. A first valve assembly is disposed between the first vent and the second channel, and is disposed within the first chamber. The first valve assembly is configured to connect or disconnect the first vent and the second channel under pressure. The first valve assembly includes a first ventilation channel, a first annular portion, a first guide post, a first diaphragm, and a first elastic element. The first ventilation channel, the first annular portion, and the first guide post are respectively disposed on the partition plate or on the first cover. A first valve cavity, separated from the first chamber, is formed within the first annular portion. The first diaphragm is located within the first valve cavity, and its edge is connected to the first annular portion. The first diaphragm has a first through hole in the middle, which engages with the first guide post. The first diaphragm is deformable and can move along the first guide post. A first ventilation groove is provided in the middle of the first guide post. The first elastic element is disposed between the partition plate and the first diaphragm. The first end of the first ventilation channel is connected to the first vent, and the second end of the first ventilation channel is connected to the first annular portion and located on the first side of the first diaphragm. The second channel connects the first annular portion and the second chamber, and the second channel is located on the second side of the first diaphragm; The first elastic element includes a first spring and a second spring. The first spring is sleeved on the outside of the first guide post, and the second spring is sleeved on the outside of the first spring. The first spring and the second spring are respectively in contact with the first diaphragm.

2. The ink cartridge according to claim 1, characterized in that: The aperture of the first channel is in the range of 1mm to 2mm; And / or, the aperture of the second channel is in the range of 1 mm to 2 mm; And / or, the first cover includes a first wall parallel to the normal of the first ink supply port, the second cover includes a second wall parallel to the normal of the first ink supply port, and the partition is parallel to the normal of the first ink supply port. And / or, the first side frame and the second side frame respectively include a first bottom wall and a first top wall opposite each other and two first side walls connecting the first bottom wall and the first top wall; the first ink supply port and the first vent are located on the same first side wall of the first side frame, and the first ink supply port is closer to the first bottom wall than the first vent. The first channel is located close to the first bottom wall; The first ink supply port is located near the bottom wall; the first channel is located near the first side wall away from the first ink supply port.

3. The ink cartridge according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The frame further includes a first baffle, which connects to the partition and contacts the first cover. The first baffle divides the first chamber into a first ink storage chamber and a second ink storage chamber. The first baffle is provided with at least one third channel, which connects the first ink storage chamber and the second ink storage chamber. At least one of the third channels is located near the first ink supply port. The frame further includes a second baffle, which connects to the partition and contacts the second cover. The second baffle divides the second chamber into a third ink storage chamber and a fourth ink storage chamber. The second baffle is provided with at least one fourth channel, which connects the third ink storage chamber and the fourth ink storage chamber. The first ink supply port is connected to the first ink storage chamber, the third ink storage chamber is adjacent to the first ink storage chamber, and the first channel is connected to the first ink storage chamber and the third ink storage chamber.

4. The ink cartridge according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first baffle extends from one side of the first ink supply port in a direction away from the first ink supply port, and the first baffle is inclined in a direction away from the normal of the first ink supply port along the direction away from the first ink supply port; The second baffle extends from a position close to the first ink supply port in a direction away from the first ink supply port, and the second baffle is inclined in a direction away from the normal of the first ink supply port along the direction away from the first ink supply port; The first vent is located on the wall of the second ink storage chamber, and the second channel is located on the partition between the second ink storage chamber and the fourth ink storage chamber.

5. The ink cartridge according to claim 4, characterized in that... The ink cartridge also includes: A second valve assembly is disposed within the first chamber and is configured to connect or disconnect the first ink supply port and the first chamber under the action of an external force.

6. The ink cartridge according to claim 5, characterized in that... The second valve assembly includes a first limiting part, a second elastic element, and a first sealing element. The first limiting part is disposed on the partition or the first cover. The first sealing element is movably engaged with the first ink supply port. The second elastic element is connected between the first limiting part and the first sealing element.

7. The ink cartridge according to claim 6, characterized in that... The first limiting part includes a first limiting plate and a second limiting plate. The first limiting plate and the second limiting plate are respectively disposed on one of the partition or the first cover and have a gap with the other of the partition or the first cover. The first limiting plate is disposed on the normal line of the first ink supply port, and the second limiting plate is parallel to the normal line of the first ink supply port.

8. The ink cartridge according to claim 7, characterized in that... The first valve assembly further includes a first cover portion disposed on one of the first cover body and the partition plate, and a first annular portion disposed on the other of the first cover body and the partition plate. The first annular portion has a first groove, the edge of the first diaphragm is located in the first groove, and the first cover portion covers the outside of the first groove and contacts the edge of the first diaphragm. The first valve assembly further includes a first positioning part, which is disposed on the partition plate and contacts the end of the first elastic member away from the first diaphragm. The first diaphragm includes a first reinforcing portion disposed around the first through hole; The second channel is aligned with the inner bottom end of the first annular portion.

9. A method for refilling ink cartridges, characterized in that... The ink cartridge is the ink cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 8, and the ink filling method includes drawing air from the first ink supply port to create a negative pressure inside the ink cartridge, and then injecting ink into the ink cartridge from the first ink supply port.

10. An ink cartridge assembly, characterized in that... The ink cartridge includes a first ink cartridge and at least one second ink cartridge, wherein the first ink cartridge is the ink cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 8, and the second ink cartridge is adjacent to the first cover of the first ink cartridge; the second ink cartridge includes: The housing includes a second frame and a shell plate connected to the first side end of the second frame. The second frame is provided with a second ink supply port and a second vent. The second frame has the same structure as the first side frame and is aligned with each other. The second ink supply port is aligned with the first ink supply port of the first ink cartridge, and the second vent is aligned with the first vent of the first ink cartridge. The third cover is connected to the second side end of the second frame. The third cover, the second frame, and the shell plate form a third chamber. The second ink supply port and the second vent port are respectively connected to the third chamber. The third cover has the same structure as the first cover of the first ink cartridge. The third cover is further away from the first cover of the first ink cartridge relative to the shell.

11. The ink cartridge assembly according to claim 10, characterized in that: The shell plate is parallel to the normal of the second ink supply port, and the third cover is parallel to the normal of the second ink supply port. The housing further includes a third baffle, which connects to the housing plate and contacts the third cover. The third baffle divides the third chamber into a fifth ink storage chamber and a sixth ink storage chamber. The second ink supply port is connected to the fifth ink storage chamber. The third baffle is provided with at least one fifth channel, which connects the fifth ink storage chamber and the sixth ink storage chamber. At least one of the fifth channels is located near the second ink supply port. The second vent is located on the wall of the sixth ink storage chamber.

12. The ink cartridge assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that... The third baffle extends from one side of the second ink supply port in a direction away from the second ink supply port, and the third baffle is inclined in a direction away from the normal of the second ink supply port.

13. The ink cartridge assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that... The second ink cartridge further includes a third valve assembly and a fourth valve assembly; the third valve assembly is disposed in the third chamber and is configured to connect or disconnect the first vent and the third chamber under pressure; the fourth valve assembly is disposed in the first chamber and is configured to connect or disconnect the second ink supply port and the third chamber under external force.

14. The ink cartridge assembly according to claim 13, characterized in that... The third valve assembly includes a second ventilation channel, a second annular portion, a second guide post, a second diaphragm, and a third elastic element. The second ventilation channel, the second annular portion, and the second guide post are respectively disposed on the shell plate or on the third cover. A second valve chamber, separated from the third chamber, is formed within the second annular portion. The second diaphragm is located within the second valve chamber, and its edge is connected to the second annular portion. The second diaphragm has a second through hole in the middle, which engages with the second guide post. The second diaphragm is deformable and can move along the second guide post. A second ventilation groove is provided in the middle of the second guide post. The third elastic element is disposed between the shell plate and the second diaphragm. The first end of the second ventilation channel is connected to the second vent, and the second end of the second ventilation channel is connected to the second annular portion and located on the first side of the second diaphragm. The second annular portion has a sixth channel, which connects the second valve chamber and the third chamber, and leads to the second side of the second diaphragm.

15. The ink cartridge assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that... The fourth valve assembly includes a second limiting part, a fourth elastic element, and a second sealing element. The second limiting part is disposed on the shell plate or the third cover. The second sealing element is movably engaged with the second ink supply port. The fourth elastic element is connected between the second limiting part and the second sealing element.

16. The ink cartridge assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that... The third chamber, the second ventilation channel, the second guide post, the second diaphragm, the third elastic element, and the second valve chamber have the same structure and corresponding positions as the corresponding first chamber, the first ventilation channel, the first guide post, the first diaphragm, the first elastic element, and the first valve chamber.

17. A printing apparatus, comprising a printing component and an ink supply component, the printing component including ink-collecting needles, the ink supply component being detachably mounted to the printing component, characterized in that... The ink supply assembly includes an ink cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the ink needle cooperates with the first ink supply port; or, the ink supply assembly includes an ink cartridge assembly according to any one of claims 10 to 16, wherein there are multiple ink needles, and each ink needle cooperates with the first ink supply port and the second ink supply port in a one-to-one correspondence.

Images