Chip and Consumable Box

Abstract

This application provides a chip and a consumable cartridge, relating to the field of printing technology. The chip includes: a storage element, a power supply unit, multiple terminals, and a mode switching unit; the storage element stores consumable cartridge information, related processing programs, and communication programs; the power supply unit provides electrical signals to the storage element; the multiple terminals are electrically connected to the storage element, and the multiple terminals include at least a data terminal and a reset terminal; the mode switching unit receives a target instruction sent by a printing device, determines whether the clock length for executing the target instruction is a preset value, and if so, shuts down the power supply unit when the signal level of the reset terminal is detected to be low; if not, shuts down the power supply unit during or after image output; and turns on the power supply unit when the mode switching unit detects that the first timer in the included timing unit has reached a first duration. This application can effectively improve the safety and stability of the chip.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of printing technology, and more particularly to a chip and a consumable box. Background Technology

[0002] Printing equipment is increasingly widely used in human production and daily life. Common printing equipment includes laser printers and inkjet printers. Inkjet printers, for example, use consumable cartridges, specifically ink cartridges. These cartridges contain ink, and the inkjet printer ejects the ink onto paper to create the text or images to be printed. Each ink cartridge contains a chip that communicates with the printer's contact pins.

[0003] Currently, during prolonged use, consumable cartridges may accumulate conductive foreign matter, such as ink droplets, metal wires, or metal shavings, on their surface. When the cartridge is installed in an inkjet printer, this foreign matter flows towards the chip's substrate surface under gravity and is intercepted by terminals on the substrate. If this foreign matter adheres to the power and ground terminals of the substrate, it can cause a short circuit between them, potentially burning out the chip. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a chip and a consumable box to solve the problem that foreign objects adhering to the power terminal and ground terminal of the chip substrate cause a short circuit between the power terminal and the ground terminal, which in turn leads to the chip being burned out.

[0005] Firstly, this application provides a chip, including...

[0006] Storage elements are used to store consumable box information, related processing programs, and communication programs;

[0007] The power supply unit is used to provide electrical signals to the storage elements;

[0008] Multiple terminals are electrically connected to the storage element. The multiple terminals include at least a data terminal and a reset terminal. The data terminal is connected to the data signal line in the device-side control unit of the printing device, and the reset terminal is connected to the reset signal line in the device-side control unit of the printing device.

[0009] The mode switching unit is used to receive the target instruction sent by the printing device, determine whether the clock length for executing the target instruction is a preset value, and if so, turn off the power supply unit when the signal level of the reset terminal is detected to be low; if not, turn off the power supply unit during or after the image output process.

[0010] The mode switching unit includes a timing unit, which includes a first timer. When the mode switching unit detects that the first timer has reached the first duration, the power supply unit is turned on.

[0011] Optionally, during the image output process, the power supply unit is turned off, including: turning off the power supply unit when the data terminal receives a data signal; or, after the image output is completed, the power supply unit is turned off, including: turning off the power supply unit when the data terminal no longer receives a data signal.

[0012] Optionally, the power supply unit includes only an external power supply located outside the storage element; or, the power supply unit includes an external power supply and an internal power supply, with the external power supply located outside the storage element and the internal power supply located inside the storage element, the electrical signal of the internal power supply being provided by a reset signal line.

[0013] Optionally, the power supply unit includes an external power supply and an internal power supply. Turning off the power supply unit includes turning off the internal power supply.

[0014] Optionally, before shutting down the internal power supply, the mode switching unit shuts down the external power supply and turns on the internal power supply when it detects that the signal level of the reset terminal is high.

[0015] Optionally, the mode switching unit includes a first mode conversion unit, which includes a first switching unit. One end of the external power supply is connected to the storage element, and the other end of the external power supply is connected to the first switching unit. The first switching unit controls the external power supply to be turned on or off.

[0016] Optionally, the mode switching unit includes a second mode conversion unit, which includes a first detection unit. The first detection unit monitors the target instruction received by the data terminal and determines whether the clock length for executing the target instruction is a preset value.

[0017] Optionally, the second mode conversion unit further includes a second detection unit. When the second detection unit detects that the signal level of the reset terminal is low, it turns off the external power supply through the first switching unit; when the first mode conversion unit detects that the first timer has reached the first duration, it turns on the external power supply through the first switching unit.

[0018] Optionally, the timing unit also includes a second timer. When the second detection unit detects that the signal level of the reset terminal is high, it starts the second timer to time for a second duration and monitors whether the signal level of the reset terminal is low.

[0019] Optionally, the second mode conversion unit further includes a second switching unit. When the second detection unit detects that the signal level of the reset terminal is high, it turns off the external power supply through the first switching unit and turns on the internal power supply through the second switching unit. When the second timer starts and times to the second duration, the second detection unit monitors whether the signal level of the reset terminal is low. If so, it turns off the internal power supply through the second switching unit.

[0020] Optionally, when the first detection unit detects that the clock length for executing the target instruction is not a preset value, the second detection unit monitors whether the reset signal is high. If so, the target instruction is executed, and the external power supply is turned off through the first switching unit.

[0021] Optionally, the first duration is used to represent the clock length from the completion of the previous target instruction to the start of the execution of the next target instruction; the second duration is used to represent the clock length during which the reset signal remains high.

[0022] Optionally, when the target instruction is executed, the electrical signal provided by the power supply unit and the signal levels of multiple terminals are all low.

[0023] Secondly, this application provides a consumable box, including: a consumable box body, the consumable box body having an mounting position for installing a chip as described in the first aspect of this application, the consumable box being from an original consumable box, a recycled consumable box, or a regenerated consumable box.

[0024] The chip and consumable cartridge provided in this application include a storage element, a power supply unit, multiple terminals, and a mode switching unit. The storage element stores consumable cartridge information, related processing programs, and communication programs. The power supply unit provides electrical signals to the storage element. The multiple terminals are electrically connected to the storage element, including at least a data terminal and a reset terminal. The data terminal is connected to the data signal line in the device-side control unit of the printing device, and the reset terminal is connected to the reset signal line in the device-side control unit of the printing device. The mode switching unit receives a target instruction sent by the printing device and determines whether the clock length for executing the target instruction is a preset value. If so, the power supply unit is turned off when the signal level of the reset terminal is detected to be low. If not, the power supply unit is turned off during or after image output. The mode switching unit includes a timing unit, which includes a first timer. The power supply unit is turned on when the mode switching unit detects that the first timer has reached a first duration. This application provides electrical signals to the storage element through a power supply unit instead of through power terminals, and eliminates the power terminals on the chip's substrate surface. This change in power supply method avoids short circuits between power terminals and other terminals, or between power terminals and ground terminals, common in current printing equipment power supply methods, thus improving chip safety and stability. Furthermore, by adding a mode switching unit, the chip's operating mode is switched based on whether the clock length of the target instruction execution is a preset value. Corresponding criteria are set to enable or disable the power supply unit according to the chip's operating mode, allowing the chip to adapt to the inherent programming logic of the printing equipment. This effectively prevents the current method of continuously powering the chip in the consumable cartridge using an external power supply. Applying this method to the chip in the consumable cartridge of this printing equipment would not conform to the inherent programming logic of the printing equipment, causing errors or machine recognition issues during consumable cartridge use, resulting in inconvenience for users. Attached Figure Description

[0025] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a chip provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a consumable box provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 3This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an ink cartridge provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a chip in an ink cartridge provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a chip in an ink cartridge provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit connection between a consumable box and a printing device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating the operation of a chip provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 8 The flowchart corresponding to process 2 provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 9 The flowchart corresponding to process 3 provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 10 The flowchart corresponding to process 4 provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 11 A flowchart corresponding to process 4 provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 12 A circuit connection diagram of a consumable box and a printing device provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 13 A flowchart corresponding to process 3 provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 14 The flowchart corresponding to process 4 provided in yet another embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0040] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0041] It should be noted that the user information (including but not limited to user device information, user personal information, etc.) and data (including but not limited to data used for analysis, data stored, data displayed, etc.) involved in this application are all information and data authorized by the user or fully authorized by all parties. Furthermore, the collection, use and processing of the relevant data must comply with the relevant laws, regulations and standards of the relevant countries and regions, and corresponding operation portals are provided for users to choose to authorize or refuse.

[0042] Inkjet printers have a consumable cartridge. During prolonged use, conductive foreign objects, such as ink droplets, metal wires, or metal shavings, may adhere to the surface of the cartridge. When the cartridge is installed in the printer, these foreign objects flow towards the chip's substrate surface under gravity and are intercepted by terminals on the substrate. If these foreign objects adhere between the power and ground terminals on the substrate, it can cause a short circuit, potentially burning out the chip.

[0043] To address the aforementioned issues, related technologies often employ an external power source (such as a battery or other DC power supply) to continuously power the chip. However, after the target inkjet printer executes an instruction through the chip in the consumable cartridge (such as an ink cartridge), the printer enters a brief sleep state. Multiple signal lines (including power, reset, data, clock, and ground signals) connecting the device-side control unit of the target inkjet printer to the chip's terminals are all at a low level. When the inkjet printer emerges from sleep and executes the next instruction, the power and reset signal lines must be raised from low to high before the instruction can be executed normally. Applying the method of continuously powering the chip (i.e., the power signal line remaining continuously high) to the chip in the consumable cartridge used by this target inkjet printer does not conform to the inherent programming logic of inkjet printers, leading to errors or printer recognition issues, and consequently affecting the normal use of the consumable cartridge.

[0044] To address the aforementioned problems, this application provides a chip and a consumable cartridge. By adding a mode switching unit to the chip, the operating mode of the chip can be switched, enabling the chip to adapt to the inherent programming logic of the printing device. Specifically, after executing one instruction, the power supply unit is cut off, causing it to enter a sleep cycle; upon receiving the next instruction, the sleep cycle ends, and the power supply unit is connected to the chip. The power supply unit can be an external power source or a combination of internal and external power supplies. By changing the chip's power supply method, this application avoids the short circuits that occur between the power terminal and other terminals, or between the power terminal and the ground terminal, which can lead to the consumable cartridge not recognizing the device, displaying errors, or even burning out the chip. This improves the chip's safety and stability. Furthermore, it effectively avoids the problem of the current method of continuously powering the chip of the consumable cartridge with an external power source, which, when applied to the chip of the consumable cartridge used in this printing device, does not conform to the inherent programming logic of the printing device, causing errors or the printing device not recognizing the cartridge during use, thus inconveniencing the user.

[0045] The technical solution of this application will now be described in detail through specific embodiments. It should be noted that the following specific embodiments can be combined with each other, and the same or similar concepts or processes may not be described again in some embodiments.

[0046] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a chip provided in one embodiment of this application. Figure 1 As shown, the chip 100 in this embodiment includes: a storage element 111, a power supply unit 112, multiple terminals 113, and a mode switching unit 120. Wherein:

[0047] Storage element 111 is used to store consumable box information, related processing programs and communication programs.

[0048] The power supply unit 112 is used to provide electrical signals to the storage element 111.

[0049] Multiple terminals 113 are electrically connected to the storage element 111. The multiple terminals 113 include at least a data terminal 1131 and a reset terminal 1132. The data terminal 1131 is connected to the data signal line in the device-side control unit of the printing device, and the reset terminal 1132 is connected to the reset signal line in the device-side control unit of the printing device. The power supply unit 112 is used to provide electrical signals to the storage element 111.

[0050] The mode switching unit 120 is used to receive the target instruction sent by the printing device, determine whether the clock length for executing the target instruction is a preset value, and if so, turn off the power supply unit 112 when the signal level of the reset terminal is detected to be low; if not, turn off the power supply unit 112 during the output of the image or after the output of the image.

[0051] The mode switching unit 120 includes a timing unit 121, which includes a first timer. When the mode switching unit 120 detects that the first timer has reached the first duration, the power supply unit 112 is turned on.

[0052] In this embodiment, the storage element 111 includes, for example, a storage unit for storing consumable box information (such as model and the color of the imaging material contained therein), related processing programs, and communication programs. For a detailed description of the storage element 111, please refer to subsequent embodiments. The power supply unit 112 provides electrical signals to the storage element 111. The power supply unit 112 may include only an external power supply, providing electrical signals to the storage element 111 through the external power supply; alternatively, the power supply unit 112 may include both an external power supply and an internal power supply, providing phased power to the storage element 111 through both the internal and external power supplies. Multiple terminals 113 are electrically connected to the storage element 111. The multiple terminals 113 include at least a data terminal 1131 and a reset terminal 1132. Optionally, the multiple terminals 113 may also include other communication terminals or functional terminals, such as a clock terminal (for receiving clock signals), a ground terminal (for transmitting ground signals), and functional terminals (for performing installation detection on the consumable box and for detecting whether a short circuit has occurred between the terminals). Data terminal 1131 is connected to the data signal line in the device-side control unit of the printing device to receive data signals sent by the printing device; reset terminal 1132 is connected to the reset signal line in the device-side control unit of the printing device to receive reset signals sent by the printing device.

[0053] When the mode switching unit 120 receives a target instruction from the printing device, it determines whether the clock length for executing the target instruction is a preset value. The target instruction may be a detection instruction, a print instruction, or a copy instruction. Detection instructions include installation detection instructions and short-circuit detection instructions. If the clock length for executing the target instruction is the preset value, the target instruction is determined to be a detection instruction. When the signal level of the reset terminal 1132 is detected to be low, the power supply unit 112 is turned off. If the clock length for executing the target instruction is not the preset value, the target instruction is determined to be a print instruction or a copy instruction. During or after image output, the power supply unit 112 is turned off.

[0054] Optionally, shutting down the power supply unit during image output may include: the mode switching unit 120 shutting down the power supply unit when it detects that the data terminal 1131 is receiving a data signal; or, shutting down the power supply unit after image output is completed may include: the mode switching unit 120 shutting down the power supply unit when it detects that the data terminal 1131 is no longer receiving a data signal.

[0055] For example, if the clock length for executing the target instruction is not a preset value, then during the printing or copying process (i.e., when the reset terminal 1132 is at a high level and the data terminal 1131 receives a data signal), the mode switching unit 120 shuts down the power supply unit 112; or, after printing or copying is completed (i.e., when the data terminal 1131 no longer receives a data signal), the mode switching unit 120 shuts down the power supply unit 112. For details on how to shut down the power supply unit 112, please refer to subsequent embodiments.

[0056] Optionally, when the target instruction is executed, the electrical signal provided by the power supply unit 112 and the signal levels of the multiple terminals 113 are all low.

[0057] It is understandable that when the storage element 111 of chip 100 finishes executing the target instruction, the printing device will briefly go into sleep mode. At this time, the multiple signal lines between the device-side control unit of the printing device and the multiple terminals 113 of chip 100 are all at a low level. In order to adapt to the inherent internal logic of the printing device, the electrical signal provided by the power supply unit 112 of the corresponding chip and the signal level of the multiple terminals 113 of the device-side control unit are also at a low level. This can save the power of the power supply unit 112 and extend the service life of the power supply unit 112.

[0058] In this embodiment, after the power supply unit 112 is turned off, a first timer is started to count down. When the mode switching unit 120 detects that the first timer has reached the first duration, the power supply unit 112 is turned on. Optionally, the first duration is used to represent the clock length from the completion of the previous target instruction to the start of the execution of the next target instruction.

[0059] It can be understood that the first duration is the brief sleep duration of the storage element 111 after executing the target instruction, in order to save the power of the power supply unit 112.

[0060] The chip provided in this application embodiment includes a storage element, a power supply unit, multiple terminals, and a mode switching unit. The storage element is used to store consumable box information, related processing programs, and communication programs. The power supply unit is used to provide electrical signals to the storage element. The multiple terminals are electrically connected to the storage element, and the multiple terminals include at least a data terminal and a reset terminal. The data terminal is connected to the data signal line in the device-side control unit of the printing device, and the reset terminal is connected to the reset signal line in the device-side control unit of the printing device. The mode switching unit is used to receive a target instruction sent by the printing device, determine whether the clock length for executing the target instruction is a preset value, and if so, turn off the power supply unit when the signal level of the reset terminal is detected to be low. If not, turn off the power supply unit during image output or after image output is completed. The mode switching unit includes a timing unit, which includes a first timer. When the mode switching unit detects that the first timer has timed out to a first duration, the power supply unit is turned on. Because this embodiment provides electrical signals to the storage element through a power supply unit instead of through a power terminal, and eliminates the power terminal on the chip's substrate surface, thus changing the chip's power supply method, it avoids the short circuit problem between the power terminal and other terminals, or between the power terminal and the ground terminal, which is common in current printing equipment power supply methods. This improves the chip's safety and stability. Furthermore, by adding a mode switching unit, the chip's operating mode is switched based on whether the clock length of the target instruction execution is a preset value. Based on the chip's operating mode, corresponding criteria are set to enable or disable the power supply unit as needed. This allows the chip to adapt to the inherent programming logic of the printing equipment. It effectively avoids the problem of the current method of continuously powering the chip of the consumable cartridge using an external power supply, which, when applied to the chip of the consumable cartridge used in this printing equipment, causes errors or machine recognition issues during consumable cartridge use due to incompatibility with the printing equipment's inherent programming logic, resulting in user inconvenience.

[0061] Based on the above embodiments, Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a consumable box provided according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 As shown, the consumable box 200 includes a consumable box body, which has a mounting position for mounting the chip 100 as described in any of the above embodiments. The consumable box comes from an original consumable box, a recycled consumable box, or a remanufactured consumable box. The chip 100 can be assembled into the consumable box 200 through the mounting position. In this embodiment, the specific implementation process of the chip 100 can be referred to the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0062] For example, taking ink cartridges as a consumable, the ink cartridges may be original ink cartridges, recycled ink cartridges, or regenerated ink cartridges. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an ink cartridge provided in one embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 3As shown, the ink cartridge includes a body ( Figure 3 (Not shown) and chip 100, the main body includes a shell 301 and an inner liner 302. The inner liner 302 is detachably connected to the shell 301, or the inner liner 302 is fixedly connected to the shell 301. The inner liner 302 is used to store ink. The shell 301 has a mounting position 303, and the mounting position 303 has a first positioning part 304 for connecting with a second positioning part 305 provided on the substrate 306 of the chip 100. When the ink in the inner liner is used up, a new inner liner is directly replaced.

[0063] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the chip in an ink cartridge provided in one embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 4 As shown, the chip includes a substrate 306, on which storage elements and multiple terminals are disposed. The multiple terminals are electrically connected to the storage elements and include a data terminal 1131, a reset terminal 1132, a clock terminal 1133, and a ground terminal 1134. The printing device includes a device-side control unit. The data terminal 1131 is connected to the device-side data terminal of the device-side control unit via a data signal line, used for sending or receiving data signals between the chip and the printing device. Simultaneously, the data terminal 1131 can also be used to detect the installation of the ink cartridge and to detect whether a short circuit occurs between the data terminal 1131 and at least one of the other terminals. The reset terminal 1132 is connected to the device-side reset terminal of the device-side control unit via a reset signal line, used for receiving a reset signal. The clock terminal 1133 is connected to the device-side clock terminal of the device-side control unit via a clock signal line, used for receiving a clock signal. The ground terminal 1134 is connected to the device-side ground terminal of the device-side control unit via a ground signal line, used for transmitting a ground signal. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the chip in the ink cartridge provided in another embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 5 As shown, the multiple terminals provided on the substrate 306 can also be configured to include a high-voltage terminal 1135 (for installation detection), a short-circuit detection terminal 1136 (for short-circuit detection), a data terminal 1131, a reset terminal 1132, a clock terminal 1133, and a ground terminal 1134.

[0064] Based on the above embodiments, the following description uses ink cartridges as an example to illustrate the relevant content.

[0065] Example 1: The power supply unit consists only of an external power source (i.e., full battery power), and the external power source is located outside the storage element:

[0066] In this embodiment, Figure 6 This is a circuit connection diagram of a consumable cartridge and a printing device provided in one embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 6As shown, the device-side control unit of the printing device is electrically connected to the storage element disposed on the substrate of the chip in the consumable cartridge via multiple wires. These multiple wires include a data line (e.g., LSDA), a reset line (e.g., LRST), a clock line (e.g., LSCK), and a ground line (e.g., LVSS). Based on the above embodiment, the mode switching unit ( Figure 6 and Figure 12 (Not shown) includes a first mode conversion unit located outside the storage element. The first mode conversion unit includes a first switching unit and a first timer. One end of the external power supply is connected to the storage element, and the other end is connected to the first switching unit. The first switching unit controls the on / off state of the external power supply. When the first mode conversion unit detects that the first timer has elapsed for a first duration, the external power supply is turned on via the first switching unit. It should be noted that the first mode conversion unit can be configured with an independent external power supply or receive electrical signals from the printing device to supply power to the first mode conversion unit when the external power supply is cut off, enabling it to operate normally. The first mode conversion unit may also include a third detection unit (…). Figure 6 (Not shown in the image) is used to monitor whether the first timer has reached the first duration. If so, the external power supply is turned on through the first switching unit.

[0067] External power sources include batteries or other DC-powered components, such as... Figure 6 As shown, the external power supply is electrically connected to the power signal input terminal in the storage element and the first mode conversion unit respectively. To ensure that the external power supply provides a stable electrical signal to the storage element, optionally, a voltage regulator unit is provided between the external power supply and the first mode conversion unit to regulate the voltage of the external power supply.

[0068] The mode switching unit includes a second mode conversion unit located inside the storage element. The second mode conversion unit includes a first detection unit, which monitors the target instruction received from the data terminal and determines whether the clock length for executing the target instruction is a preset value. Specifically, the first detection unit identifies the instruction type and instruction length for the target instruction received from the data terminal. Instruction types include, but are not limited to, detection instructions, printing instructions, or copying instructions. Detection types include installation detection and short-circuit detection. If the clock length for responding to the target instruction is a preset value (i.e., the clock length is essentially constant), and the target instruction is determined to be a detection instruction, a data signal of a preset clock length matching the detection instruction is sent using the clock signal on the clock signal line as the reference frequency. However, if the clock length for responding to the target instruction is not a preset value (i.e., the clock length is not constant), and the target instruction is determined to be a printing instruction or a copying instruction, the high / low level changes of the auxiliary reset signal and whether a data signal can be received are needed to monitor and determine the execution cycle of the printing or copying instruction.

[0069] The second mode conversion unit may further include a second detection unit. When the second detection unit detects a low signal level at the reset terminal, it shuts off the external power supply via the first switching unit. When the first mode conversion unit detects that the first timer has reached a first duration, it turns on the external power supply via the first switching unit. The timing unit also includes a second timer, which is incorporated into the second mode conversion unit. When the second detection unit detects a high signal level at the reset terminal, it starts the second timer, which timees to a second duration, and monitors whether the signal level at the reset terminal is low. The second duration represents the clock length during which the high level of the reset signal persists.

[0070] The storage element may also include a storage unit that stores original cartridge information (such as model number, color and ink volume of the imaging material it contains), related processing programs, and communication programs.

[0071] based on Figure 6 , Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of a chip provided in one embodiment of this application. Figure 7 This can be understood as process 1. For example... Figure 7 As shown, when the ink cartridge is inserted into the printing device, the printing device is turned on, the external power supply on the chip of the ink cartridge is turned on by default, and power is supplied to the storage element. Process 1 is executed first.

[0072] Process 1 may include the following steps:

[0073] S701, the first detection unit in the second mode conversion unit monitors whether the data terminal receives the target instruction sent from the device-side control unit of the printing device through the data signal line. If yes, then step S702 is executed; if no, then step S701 is executed again.

[0074] S702, the first detection unit in the second mode conversion unit determines whether the target instruction is being responded to by the current ink cartridge chip. If yes, then step S703 is executed; if no, then process 2 is executed. Process 2 indicates that the target instruction is being responded to by the chip of another ink cartridge. The specific execution steps corresponding to process 2 can be referred to in subsequent embodiments.

[0075] It is understandable that since the target instruction contains an identifier that needs to communicate with the chip of the specified ink cartridge, the chip of the ink cartridge that needs to respond can be identified based on the chip's identifier.

[0076] S703, the first detection unit in the second mode conversion unit determines whether the clock length of the received target instruction is a preset value. If yes, it executes process 3, which indicates that the target instruction is a detection instruction. The specific execution steps of process 3 can be referred to in subsequent embodiments. If no, it executes process 4, which indicates that the target instruction is a printing instruction or a copying instruction. The specific execution steps of process 4 can be referred to in subsequent embodiments.

[0077] based on Figure 7 , Figure 8 The flowchart corresponding to process 2 provided in an embodiment of this application is as follows: Figure 8 As shown, process 2 may include the following steps:

[0078] S801. Confirm that the target command is responded to by the chip of the current ink cartridge.

[0079] S802, the first detection unit in the second mode conversion unit continues to determine whether the clock length of the received target instruction is the preset value. If yes, then process 3 is executed; if no, then process 4 is executed.

[0080] based on Figure 7 , Figure 9 The flowchart corresponding to process 3 provided in an embodiment of this application is as follows: Figure 9 As shown, process 3 may include the following steps:

[0081] S901, the second detection unit in the second mode conversion unit monitors whether the signal level (i.e., the reset signal) of the reset terminal is high. If it is, then step S902 is executed; if not, then it continues to wait for the reset signal to become high.

[0082] S902, Start the second timer (e.g., T2) in the second mode conversion unit to begin timing.

[0083] S903. Monitor whether the second timer T2 has timed to the second duration (e.g., tt2). If yes, it means that the entire detection instruction has been completed and step S904 is executed. If no, continue to wait for T2 to time to the second duration tt2. That is, after the second timer has timed to the second duration tt2, continue to execute step S904.

[0084] S904. The second detection unit monitors whether the reset signal is low. If yes, it executes step S905; otherwise, it continues to wait for the reset signal to become low.

[0085] S905. The external power supply is turned off by the first switching unit in the first mode conversion unit (the first switching unit is equivalent to an electronic switch, which controls the opening or closing of the external power supply), and the first timer (e.g., represented by T1) is started to begin timing.

[0086] Since the printing device briefly enters a sleep state after the chip's storage element completes one instruction, turning off the external power supply during this time can save power and extend its operating time. As mentioned earlier, since the first mode conversion unit can be configured with an independent external power supply or receive electrical signals from the printing device, it can be ensured that the first mode conversion unit continues to operate normally even after the external power supply is interrupted.

[0087] S906. Monitor whether the first timer T1 has timed to the first duration (e.g., represented by tt1a). If yes, proceed to step S907; otherwise, continue to wait for T1 to time to the first duration.

[0088] S907. The external power supply is turned on through the first switching unit, and process 3 returns to process 1 to continue waiting to receive the next instruction.

[0089] based on Figure 7 , Figure 10 The flowchart corresponding to process 4 provided in an embodiment of this application is as follows: Figure 10 As shown, process 4 may include the following steps:

[0090] S1001, the second detection unit in the second mode conversion unit monitors whether the reset signal received by the reset terminal is high. If yes, then step S1002 is executed; if no, then it continues to wait for the reset signal to become high.

[0091] S1002. Execute the target instruction, which is a print instruction or a copy instruction.

[0092] S1003. The first detection unit monitors whether the target instruction has been executed, that is, it monitors whether the data terminal has received a data signal. If the data terminal receives a data signal, the execution returns to step S1003; if the data terminal no longer receives a data signal (i.e., the data signal line level of the printing device is low), the execution of the target instruction is determined to be completed, and step S1004 continues.

[0093] S1004. The second detection unit detects whether the reset signal is low. If yes, it executes step S1005; otherwise, it continues to wait for the reset signal to become low.

[0094] S1005. The external power supply is turned off through the first switching unit in the first mode conversion unit, and the first timer T1 is started to start timing.

[0095] S1006. Monitor whether the first timer T1 has timed to the first duration tt1a. If yes, proceed to step S1007; otherwise, continue to wait for T1 to time to the first duration tt1a.

[0096] S1007. The external power supply is turned on through the first switching unit. After the execution of process 4 is completed, the process returns to process 1 and continues to wait to receive the next instruction.

[0097] It should be noted that after the ink cartridge is inserted into the printer, if the user does not perform any printing or copying operations, i.e., does not execute process 4, the printer will continuously loop through process 3 (i.e., the detection process). Furthermore, assuming the first duration from the completion of the previous detection process to the start of the next detection process is denoted as tt1b, this first duration tt1b is the time interval between the external power being turned off after the completion of the previous process 3 and before the external power is turned on again before the start of the next process 3. This first duration tt1b > tt1a.

[0098] based on Figure 7 , Figure 11 The flowchart corresponding to process 4 provided in another embodiment of this application is as follows: Figure 11 As shown, with Figure 10 The difference in process 4 shown is that, to conserve power, the external power supply can be turned off during process 4, and then turned back on after the printing or copying operation is completed. Process 4 in this embodiment may include the following steps:

[0099] S1101. When the first detection unit detects that the clock length for the execution of the target instruction is not a preset value, the second detection unit in the second mode conversion unit monitors whether the reset signal received by the reset terminal is high. If yes, then step S1002 is executed; otherwise, then the unit continues to wait for the reset signal to become high.

[0100] S1102. Execute the target instruction and simultaneously turn off the external power supply through the first switching unit. The target instruction is a print instruction or a copy instruction.

[0101] S1103. The first detection unit monitors whether the target instruction has been executed, that is, it monitors whether the data terminal has received a data signal. If the data terminal receives a data signal, the execution of step S1103 continues; if the data terminal no longer receives a data signal (i.e., the data signal line level of the printing device is low), the execution of the target instruction is determined to be completed, and the execution of step S1104 continues.

[0102] S1104. The second detection unit detects whether the reset signal is low. If yes, it executes step S1105; otherwise, it continues to wait for the reset signal to become low.

[0103] S1105, Start the first timer T1 to begin timing.

[0104] S1106. Monitor whether the first timer T1 has timed to the first duration tt1a. If yes, proceed to step S1107; otherwise, continue to wait for T1 to time to the first duration tt1a.

[0105] S1107. The external power supply is turned on through the first switching unit, and process 4 returns to process 1 to continue waiting to receive the next instruction.

[0106] Example 2: The power supply unit includes an external power supply and an internal power supply (i.e., the external power supply and internal power supply are supplied in stages). The external power supply is located outside the storage element, and the internal power supply is located inside the storage element. The electrical signal of the internal power supply is provided by the reset signal line.

[0107] In this embodiment, Figure 12 This is a circuit connection diagram of the consumable box and the printing device provided in another embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 12 As shown, based on Figure 6 The second mode conversion unit also includes a second switching unit, which is used to turn the internal power supply on or off.

[0108] In this embodiment, referring to Embodiment 1 Figure 7 In this embodiment, processes 1 and 2 are the same as in embodiment 1, while processes 3 and 4 differ. Specifically, Figure 13 A flowchart corresponding to process 3 provided in another embodiment of this application is shown below. Figure 13 As shown, process 3 in this embodiment may include the following steps:

[0109] S1301, the second detection unit in the second mode conversion unit monitors whether the signal level (i.e., the reset signal) of the reset terminal is high. If it is, then step S1302 is executed; if not, then it continues to wait for the reset signal to become high.

[0110] S1302: The external power supply is turned off through the first switching unit in the first mode conversion unit, and the internal power supply is turned on through the second switching unit. At the same time, the second timer T2 in the second mode conversion unit is started to start timing.

[0111] S1303. Monitor whether the second timer T2 has timed to the second duration tt2. If yes, it means that the entire detection instruction has been executed and step S1304 is executed. If no, continue to wait for T2 to time to the second duration tt2.

[0112] S1304. The second detection unit monitors whether the reset signal is low. If yes, it executes step S1305; otherwise, it continues to wait for the reset signal to become low.

[0113] S1305. The internal power supply is turned off through the second switching unit (the second switching unit is equivalent to an electronic switch, which controls the opening or closing of the internal power supply), and the first timer T1 is started to start timing.

[0114] Because the storage elements of the chip component will briefly hibernate after executing an instruction, both the internal and external power supplies are turned off during this time, which can save the power of the external power supply and extend its usage time.

[0115] S1306. Monitor whether the first timer T1 has timed to the first duration tt1a. If yes, proceed to step S1307; otherwise, continue to wait for T1 to time to the first duration tt1a.

[0116] S1307. The external power supply is turned on through the first switching unit. After the execution of process 3 is completed, the process returns to process 1 and continues to wait for the next instruction.

[0117] Figure 14 The flowchart corresponding to process 4 provided in another embodiment of this application is as follows: Figure 14 As shown, process 4 in this embodiment may include the following steps:

[0118] S1401, the second detection unit in the second mode conversion unit monitors whether the reset signal received by the reset terminal is high. If yes, then step S1402 is executed; if no, then it continues to wait for the reset signal to become high.

[0119] S1402. The external power supply is turned off through the first switching unit in the second mode conversion unit, and the internal power supply is turned on through the second switching unit.

[0120] S1403. Execute the target instruction, which is either a print instruction or a copy instruction.

[0121] S1404. The first detection unit monitors whether the target instruction has been completed, that is, it monitors whether the data terminal has received a data signal. If the data terminal receives a data signal, it indicates that the image output process is underway, and step S1404 continues to be executed; if the data terminal no longer receives a data signal (i.e., the data signal line level of the printing device is low), it indicates that the image output is complete, and the target instruction is determined to have been completed, and step S1405 continues to be executed.

[0122] S1405. The second detection unit detects whether the reset signal is low. If yes, it executes step S1406; otherwise, it continues to wait for the reset signal to become low.

[0123] S1406. The internal power supply is turned off through the second switching unit, and the first timer T1 is started to start timing.

[0124] S1407. Monitor whether the first timer T1 has timed to the first duration tt1a. If yes, execute step S1408; otherwise, continue to wait for T1 to time to the first duration tt1a.

[0125] S1408. The external power supply is turned on through the first switching unit, and process 4 returns to process 1 to continue waiting to receive the next instruction.

[0126] Based on Embodiments 1 and 2 above, the chip provided in this application avoids the short circuit problem between the power supply terminal and other terminals, or between the power supply terminal and the ground terminal, which occurs in current printing device power supply methods, thus improving the chip's safety and stability. Furthermore, by adding a mode switching unit, the chip's operating mode is switched based on whether the clock length of the target instruction execution is a preset value. This allows the chip to adapt to the inherent programming logic of the printing device, effectively avoiding the problem in current technologies where an external power supply continuously powers the chip for the consumable cartridge. This is because the external power supply does not conform to the inherent programming logic of the printing device, leading to printing device errors or recognition issues during consumable cartridge use, causing inconvenience to users.

[0127] The chip workflow provided in Embodiments 1 and 2 ensures that a stable power signal is provided to the chip during the printing process, maintaining the chip's normal operation. It also saves power from the external power supply (battery), extends the usage time of the external power supply, and avoids the inconvenience and increased costs caused by frequent replacement of the external power supply.

[0128] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A chip, characterized in that, include: Storage elements are used to store consumable box information, related processing programs, and communication programs; A power supply unit is used to provide electrical signals to the storage element; Multiple terminals are electrically connected to the storage element, the multiple terminals including at least a data terminal and a reset terminal, the data terminal being connected to a data signal line in the device-side control unit of the printing device, and the reset terminal being connected to a reset signal line in the device-side control unit of the printing device; The mode switching unit is used to receive the target instruction sent by the printing device, determine whether the clock length for executing the target instruction is a preset value, and if so, turn off the power supply unit when the signal level of the reset terminal is detected to be low; if not, turn off the power supply unit during or after the image output process. The mode switching unit includes a timing unit, which includes a first timer. When the mode switching unit detects that the first timer has reached a first duration, the power supply unit is turned on.

2. The chip according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of turning off the power supply unit during image output includes: When the data terminal receives a data signal, the power supply unit is turned off; or, The step of turning off the power supply unit after the image output is complete includes: When the data terminal is detected to no longer receive the data signal, the power supply unit is turned off.

3. The chip according to claim 2, characterized in that, The power supply unit includes only an external power source located outside the storage element; or, the power supply unit includes an external power source and an internal power source, with the external power source located outside the storage element and the internal power source located inside the storage element, the electrical signal of the internal power source being provided by the reset signal line.

4. The chip according to claim 3, characterized in that, The power supply unit includes an external power source and an internal power source. Turning off the power supply unit includes turning off the internal power source.

5. The chip according to claim 4, characterized in that, Before shutting down the internal power supply, the mode switching unit shuts down the external power supply and turns on the internal power supply when it detects that the signal level of the reset terminal is high.

6. The chip according to claim 3, characterized in that, The mode switching unit includes a first mode conversion unit, which in turn includes a first switching unit. One end of the external power supply is connected to the storage element, and the other end of the external power supply is connected to the first switching unit. The first switching unit controls the external power supply to be turned on or off.

7. The chip according to claim 6, characterized in that, The mode switching unit includes a second mode conversion unit, which includes a first detection unit. The first detection unit monitors the target instruction received by the data terminal and determines whether the clock length for executing the target instruction is the preset value.

8. The chip according to claim 7, characterized in that, The second mode conversion unit further includes a second detection unit. When the second detection unit detects that the signal level of the reset terminal is low, it turns off the external power supply through the first switching unit. When the first mode conversion unit detects that the first timer has reached the first duration, it turns on the external power supply through the first switching unit.

9. The chip according to claim 8, characterized in that, The timing unit further includes a second timer. When the second detection unit detects that the signal level of the reset terminal is high, it starts the second timer to time for a second duration and monitors whether the signal level of the reset terminal is low.

10. The chip according to claim 9, characterized in that, The second mode conversion unit further includes a second switching unit. When the second detection unit detects that the signal level of the reset terminal is high, it turns off the external power supply through the first switching unit and turns on the internal power supply through the second switching unit. When the second timer is started and the timer reaches the second duration, the second detection unit monitors whether the signal level of the reset terminal is low. If so, it turns off the internal power supply through the second switching unit.

11. The chip according to claim 8, characterized in that, When the first detection unit detects that the clock length for executing the target instruction is not the preset value, the second detection unit monitors whether the reset signal is high. If so, the target instruction is executed, and the external power supply is turned off through the first switching unit.

12. The chip according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, The first duration is used to represent the clock length from the completion of the previous target instruction to the start of the execution of the next target instruction; the second duration is used to represent the clock length during which the reset signal remains high.

13. The chip according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, When the target instruction is executed, the electrical signal provided by the power supply unit and the signal levels of the plurality of terminals are all at low levels.

14. A consumable box, characterized in that, include: The consumable box body has a mounting position for installing a chip as described in any one of claims 1 to 13, and the consumable box comes from an original consumable box, a recycled consumable box, or a regenerated consumable box.

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