A drive head assembly, cartridge and image forming apparatus

Abstract

This application relates to the field of image forming technology, and more particularly to a drive head assembly, a cartridge, and an image forming apparatus. The drive head assembly is mounted on a cartridge, which is detachably mounted to the image forming apparatus. The drive head assembly includes a mounting base, a state switching member, a first drive member, and a second drive member. The state switching member is mounted on the mounting base and is movable relative to the mounting base between a first position and a second position. Both the first and second drive members are mounted on the mounting base and are movable relative to the mounting base. The state switching member can switch between the first and second positions under the action of an external force, allowing the first and second drive members to switch between a retracted state and an extended state. When the state switching member is in the first position, both the first and second drive members retract radially inward along the drive head assembly. When the state switching member is in the second position, both the first and second drive members extend radially outward along the drive head assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of image forming technology, and more particularly to a drive head assembly, a cartridge, and an image forming apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Image forming equipment, such as laser printers and copiers, all contain a developing cartridge. The developing cartridge is an important component of image forming equipment.

[0003] The developing cartridge transmits force through a drive head coupling mechanism. Currently, most drive head coupling methods use a shaft-groove (non-circular) fit, based on the torque formula T=F. As can be seen from S, in order to achieve a specific torque transmission, the greater the distance between the point of force application on the drive head and the center line, the smaller the force required by the drive head. However, due to the assembly requirements of the developing cartridge, the outer diameter of the drive head must be less than or equal to that of the drive bearing. This coupling method results in a small diameter of the drive head.

[0004] According to the torque formula, the driving head of the image forming device requires a large force. This high driving force results in a shorter lifespan for the driving head, necessitates higher motor output torque and the selection of better materials, which to some extent increases component costs and design complexity. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a drive head assembly, a cartridge, and an image forming apparatus, designed to increase the drive diameter of the drive head assembly and extend its service life.

[0006] This application provides a driving head assembly in a first aspect, for being disposed on a cartridge, the cartridge being detachably mounted to an image forming apparatus, the driving head assembly comprising: Mounting base; A first driving member and a second driving member are both mounted on the mounting base and are movable relative to the mounting base; A state switching element is mounted on the mounting base and is movable relative to the mounting base between a first position and a second position. The state switching component can switch between a first position and a second position under the action of external force, so that the first driving component and the second driving component can switch between a contracted state and an extended state. When the state switching component is in the first position, both the first driving component and the second driving component retract radially inward along the driving head assembly; When the state switching component is in the second position, both the first driving component and the second driving component extend outward along the radial direction of the driving head assembly.

[0007] In one possible design, the state switching element is slidably mounted on the mounting base; Both the first driving component and the second driving component are connected to the state switching component; During the process of the state switching component moving from the first position to the second position under the action of external force, the state switching component drives the first driving component and the second driving component to extend outward along the radial direction of the driving head assembly, or enables both the first driving component and the second driving component to be pushed to extend outward along the radial direction of the driving head assembly.

[0008] In one possible design, the first drive member includes a first connecting portion, which is rotatably connected to the mounting base via a first connecting shaft; The second driving component includes a second connecting portion, which is rotatably connected to the mounting base via a second connecting shaft.

[0009] In one possible design, the drive head assembly further includes a first elastic element; During the process of the state switching component moving from the first position to the second position under the action of external force, the first driving component and the second driving component can rotate relative to the mounting base under the action of the first elastic component and extend outward along the radial direction of the driving head assembly.

[0010] In one possible design, the first driving member is provided with a first driving part and a first snap-fit ​​part, wherein the first driving part and the first snap-fit ​​part are connected to the two ends of the first connecting part. The second driving member is provided with a second driving part and a second locking part, and the second driving part and the second locking part are connected to the two ends of the second connecting part; During the process of the state switching component moving from the first position to the second position under the action of external force, the first locking part and the second locking part move away from each other along the radial direction of the drive head assembly, and drive the first driving part and the second driving part to move closer to each other along the radial direction of the drive head assembly, and both the first driving part and the second driving part maintain contact with the state switching component.

[0011] In one possible design, the state switching element is provided with a guide section, the cross-sectional area of ​​which gradually decreases along the direction close to the first driving element and the second driving element. During the process of the state switching member moving from the first position to the second position under the action of external force, the state switching member moves away from the first driving member and the second driving member, and the first driving part and the second driving part move along the guide section.

[0012] In one possible design, the drive head assembly further includes a second elastic element; The mounting base is provided with a limiting post, and one end of the second elastic member is connected to the limiting post, and the other end is connected to the state switching member; Under the action of the second elastic member, the state switching member can move from the second position to the first position, and the guide segment can push the first driving part and the second driving part away from each other along the radial direction of the driving head assembly, so as to drive the first locking part and the second locking part to move closer to each other along the radial direction of the driving head assembly, so as to switch the first driving member and the second driving member from the extended state to the retracted state.

[0013] In one possible design, the state switching element is further provided with a limiting segment, which is connected to the end of the guide segment away from the first driving element and the second driving element; When the state switching component is in the first position, both the first driving part and the second driving part abut against the limiting segment, and the limiting segment can restrict the first driving part and the second driving part from extending outward.

[0014] In one possible design, the state switching component further includes a first limiting portion connected to one end of the limiting segment away from the first driving member and the second driving member, and the first limiting portion protrudes outward along the radial direction of the driving head assembly. The first limiting part can prevent the first driving part and the second driving part from disengaging from the state switching member.

[0015] In one possible design, the state switching element is further provided with a stagnation section, which is connected to the guide section on the side near the first drive element and the second drive element; When the state switching component is in the second position, both the first driving part and the second driving part abut against the stagnant section.

[0016] In one possible design, the state switching element further includes a second limiting portion connected to one end of the stagnation section near the first drive member and the second drive member, and the second limiting portion protrudes outward along the radial direction of the drive head assembly. The second limiting part can prevent the first driving part from disengaging from the state switching member.

[0017] In one possible design, the first driving member further includes a first rotating part rotatably connected to the first driving part; The second driving member further includes a second rotating part that is rotatably connected to the second driving part; When the state switching component switches between the first position and the second position under the action of an external force, both the first rotating part and the second rotating part are in rolling contact with the state switching component.

[0018] In one possible design, a first limiting protrusion is provided on the side of the first latching portion facing the second latching portion; A second limiting protrusion is provided on the side of the second latching portion facing the first latching portion; When the state switching component is in the first position, the first limiting protrusion and the second limiting protrusion are arranged opposite to each other and abut against the side end of the first elastic component.

[0019] In one possible design, the first snap-fit ​​portion has a bent structure, such that the side of the first snap-fit ​​portion facing away from the second snap-fit ​​portion forms a first clearance portion; The second snap-fit ​​portion has a bent structure, so that the side of the second snap-fit ​​portion facing away from the first snap-fit ​​portion forms a second clearance portion.

[0020] In a second aspect, this application provides a box, the box comprising: Box body; A drive head assembly is mounted on the housing, and the drive head assembly is the drive head assembly described above.

[0021] This application provides an image forming apparatus in a third aspect for mounting the aforementioned box, the image forming apparatus comprising: The equipment body is provided with a body drive head and a positioning component. The body drive head is provided with a mating groove, and the side wall of the mating groove is provided with a first slot and a second slot. The positioning member is used to push the state switching member in the drive head assembly of the box to move, so that the state switching member can move from the first position to the second position, and the first drive member and the second drive member move from the contracted state to the extended state, so that the first slot and the second slot can respectively engage with the first drive member and the second drive member.

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

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the image forming apparatus provided in this application; Figure 2 A cross-sectional schematic diagram showing the drive coupling between the box and the device body; Figure 3This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the structure of the main drive head of the device body. Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the drive head assembly provided in this application in its initial state; Figure 5 A cross-sectional schematic diagram showing the drive head assembly provided in this application in a working state; Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the drive head assembly and the main drive head provided in this application in a non-coupling state; Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing the drive head assembly and the main drive head in a mating state provided in this application; Figure 8 for Figure 4 Enlarged diagram of section A in the middle; Figure 9 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the first and second driving components provided in this application; Figure 10 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the state switching component provided in this application; Figure label: 1'-Drive force receiving unit; 11´-First drive head; 2´- Rotational force drive unit; 21'-Second drive head; 1-Drive head assembly; 11-Mounting base; 11a - Slide; 111 - First limit block; 112 - Second limit block; 113 - Limiting post; 12-State switching component; 121 - First limiting part; 122 - Limiting segment; 123 - Guide Section; 124 - Stagnation Section; 125 - Second limiting part; 126 - Fixed hook; 13-First driving component; 131 - First Drive Unit; 132 - First connecting part; 133-First connector; 133a - First limiting protrusion; 133b - First bend section; 133c - Second bend section; 133d - Third bend section; 133e - Fourth bend section; 134 - First rotating part; 135 - First Escape Section; 14-Second driving component; 141 - Second drive unit; 142 - Second connecting part; 143 - Second connecting part; 143a - Second limiting protrusion; 143b - Fifth bend section; 143c - Sixth bend section; 143d - Seventh bend section; 143e - Eighth bend section; 144 - Second rotating part; 145 - Second Escape Section; 15 - First connecting shaft; 16 - Second connecting shaft; 17-First elastic element; 18-Second elastic element; 2 boxes; 21-Drive gear set; 22-Coupling; 3-Image forming apparatus; 31-Equipment body; 31a - Body drive head; 311-Matching groove; 311a - First card slot; 311b - Second card slot; 32 - Positioning component.

[0024] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0025] To better understand the technical solution of this application, the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0026] It should be understood that the described embodiments are merely some, not all, of the embodiments in this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments in this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0027] The terminology used in the embodiments of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this application. The singular forms “a,” “the,” and “the” used in the embodiments of this application and the appended claims are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0028] It should be understood that the term "and / or" used in this article is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this article generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0029] It should be noted that the directional terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," and "right" described in the embodiments of this application are used to describe the angles shown in the accompanying drawings and should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this application. Furthermore, in the context, it should be understood that when it is mentioned that an element is connected "upper" or "lower" to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element "upper" or "lower," or indirectly connected to the other element "upper" or "lower" through an intermediate element.

[0030] This embodiment provides an image forming apparatus, which is a multifunctional image forming apparatus with functions such as printing, copying, scanning, and faxing.

[0031] Figure 1 The diagram shows an image forming apparatus 3, which includes an apparatus body 31 and a housing 2, with the housing 2 mounted on the apparatus body 31.

[0032] Among them, box 2 can be printing consumables such as developing box, drum box and toner box, and the specific design can be set according to the actual situation. This embodiment does not limit it here.

[0033] Figure 2 The diagram shows a connection between a box and a device body in one embodiment of the prior art. The device body is provided with a rotational force driving unit 2', and the box is provided with a driving force receiving unit 1'. After the driving end of the rotational force driving unit 2' and the receiving end of the driving force receiving unit 1' cooperate with each other, they can transmit the rotational driving force to the driving force receiving unit, thereby driving the driving force receiving unit inside the box to rotate.

[0034] Specifically, the driving force receiving unit 1' is equipped with a first driving head 11', and the rotational force driving unit 2' is equipped with a second driving head 21', which cooperate with each other. The first driving head 11' is a shaft structure, and the second driving head 21' is a groove structure. The driving coupling method between the first driving head 11' and the second driving head 21' is a shaft-groove fit (non-circular). According to the torque formula T=F... In this configuration, the drive head has a small diameter and requires a large driving force, which makes the drive head prone to damage.

[0035] In response, this embodiment provides an image forming apparatus to solve the aforementioned technical problems.

[0036] The image forming apparatus includes an apparatus body and a housing, which is detachably mounted to the apparatus body. The apparatus body is equipped with a positioning element. When the housing is mounted to the apparatus body, the driven end of the housing engages with the driving end of the apparatus body under the action of the positioning element, achieving drive coupling between the housing and the apparatus body. When the housing is removed, as the housing is pulled out of the apparatus body, it moves away from the positioning element, and the driven end of the housing disengages from the driving end of the apparatus body, allowing the housing to be removed from the apparatus body for convenient replacement and maintenance by the user.

[0037] The following section will describe in detail the mating structure of the box and the device body with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0038] Figure 3 The diagram shown is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the structure of the device body 31. The device body 31 is provided with a positioning member 32, a body drive gear set (not shown in the figure) and a body drive head 31a. The positioning member 32 is located in the receiving cavity of the mounting box 2 inside the device body 31. The body drive gear set can drive the body drive head 31a to rotate under the drive of the drive device.

[0039] The main body drive head 31a is provided with a mating groove 311, and the mating inner sidewall has at least a first slot 311a and a second slot 311b that are arranged opposite to each other. The first slot 311a and the second slot 311b are used to engage with the driven end of the box 2.

[0040] Box 2 includes a box body and a drive head assembly 1. The drive head assembly 1 is mounted on the box body and is used to cooperate with the main drive head 31a. Please refer to [reference needed] for details. Figure 4 and Figure 5 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 The diagram shows the structure of the drive head assembly 1. The drive head assembly 1 includes a mounting base 11, a state switching element 12, a first drive element 13, and a second drive element 14. Both the first drive element 13 and the second drive element 14 are mounted on the mounting base 11 and are movable relative to the mounting base 11, enabling transitions between a retracted state and an extended state. The state switching element 12 is mounted on the mounting base 11 and is movable relative to the mounting base 11 between a first position and a second position.

[0041] The state switching element 12 can switch between a first position and a second position under the action of external force, so that the first driving element 13 and the second driving element 14 can switch between a retracted state and an extended state, thereby realizing the switching between a non-working state and a working state of the drive head assembly 1. When the state switching element 12 is in the first position, both the first driving element 13 and the second driving element 14 retract inward along the radial direction X of the drive head assembly 1, and the drive head assembly 1 is in a non-working state. When the state switching element 12 is in the second position, both the first driving element 13 and the second driving element 14 extend outward along the radial direction X of the drive head assembly 1, and the drive head assembly 1 is in a working state that can cooperate with the body drive head 31a of the device body 31.

[0042] In this embodiment, during the installation of the box 2 into the device body 31, the drive head assembly 1 gradually transitions from a retracted state to an extended state. When the drive head assembly 1 is fully extended, the drive head assembly 1 of the box 2 and the main body drive head 31a of the device body 31 are in a cooperative state. At this time, the main body drive head 31a can drive the drive head assembly 1 to work, thus enabling the box 2 to work. Conversely, during the removal of the box 2 from the device body 31, as the drive head assembly 1 gradually returns to a non-working state, and the drive head assembly 1 of the box 2 disengages from the main body drive head 31a of the device body 31, the box 2 can then be removed from the device body 31.

[0043] When the drive head assembly 1 is in operation, the first drive member 13 and the second drive member 14 are in an extended state, so that the first drive member 13 and the second drive member 14 are respectively engaged with the first slot 311a and the second slot 311b, ensuring the stability of the operation of the drive head assembly 1.

[0044] When the drive head assembly 1 is not in operation, the first drive member 13 and the second drive member 14 are in a retracted state, thereby disengaging the first drive member 13 and the second drive member 14 from the first slot 311a and the second slot 311b respectively, facilitating the installation and removal of the box. Specifically, Figure 6 The diagram shown is a schematic diagram of the drive head assembly 1 and the main body drive head 31a of the device body 31 in a non-cooperative state. Figure 7 The diagram shown illustrates the engagement of the drive head assembly 1 and the main drive head 31a of the device body 31. Please refer to the diagram for further details. Figure 6 and Figure 7 When box 2 is not installed on the device body 31, the state switching component 12 is in the first position, and both the first driving component 13 and the second driving component 14 are in the retracted state. By confining the first driving component 13 and the second driving component 14 to the retracted state, interference between the first driving component 13 and the second driving component 14 and the internal structure of the device body is avoided during the installation and removal of box 2, thus facilitating the installation and removal of the box.

[0045] During the process of mounting the box 2 onto the device body 31, the drive head assembly 1 moves toward the drive head 31a of the body, and the state switching member 12 can abut against the positioning member 32. The positioning member 32 pushes the state switching member 12 to move, causing the state switching member 12 to move from the first position to the second position. At the same time, the first drive member 13 and the second drive member 14 can be pushed to extend outward along the radial direction X of the drive head assembly 1. By setting the positioning member 32 on the installation path of the box 2, when the box 2 is installed in a certain position, the positioning member 32 can trigger the movement of the state switching member 12, so that the first drive member 13 and the second drive member 14 can start to extend outward at this time. In this embodiment, only the positioning member 32 is needed to trigger the drive head assembly 1 to start changing states. The structure is simple, occupies little space, and is conducive to miniaturizing the image forming device 3.

[0046] When box 2 is installed in the device body 31, the state switching component 12 is in the second position. The first driving component 13 and the second driving component 14 move into the mating groove 311, and part of the structure of the first driving component 13 extends into the first slot 311a, realizing the first driving component 13 and the first slot 311a engaging. Part of the structure of the second driving component 14 extends into the second slot 311b, realizing the second driving component 14 and the second slot 311b engaging. This realizes the engagement between the drive head assembly 1 and the body drive head 31a, enabling the body drive head 31a to drive the drive head assembly 1 to rotate, thus enabling box 2 to work. By designing the first driving component 13 and the second driving component 14 to extend outward and engage with the first slot 311a and the second slot 311b, the driving arm of the drive head assembly 1 is extended, which helps to reduce the driving force of the body drive head 31a.

[0047] When box 2 is removed from the device body 31, the state switching component 12 moves away from the positioning component 32 and moves from the second position to the first position. At the same time, the first driving component 13 and the second driving component 14 can be pushed to retract inward along the radial X direction of the driving head assembly 1, so that the first driving component 13 disengages from the first slot 311a to release the engagement between the first driving component 13 and the first slot 311a. The second driving component 14 disengages from the second slot 311b to release the engagement between the second driving component 14 and the second slot 311b, so that the driving head assembly 1 can disengage from the mating groove 311, thereby releasing the engagement between the driving head assembly 1 and the main body driving head 31a, so that box 2 can be removed from the device body 31.

[0048] In this embodiment, by setting the linkage between the positioning member 32 and the state switching member 12 of the drive head assembly 1, the driving force arm of the first drive member 13 and the second drive member 14 of the drive head assembly 1 is extended, thereby increasing the driving diameter of the drive head assembly 1 and the main body drive head 31a. This helps to reduce the driving force of the image forming device 3, extend the life of the main body drive head 31a and the drive head assembly 1, and improve the working stability of the image forming device 3.

[0049] Please continue to refer to the reference. Figure 6 and Figure 7 Box 2 also includes a drive gear set 21 and a coupling 22. The coupling 22 connects the drive head assembly 1 and the drive gear set 21, so that the drive head assembly 1 can drive the drive gear set 21 to work.

[0050] Furthermore, the state switching element 12 is slidably mounted on the mounting base 11, and both the first driving element 13 and the second driving element 14 are connected to the state switching element 12. When the state switching element 12 moves away from the first driving element 13 and the second driving element 14 under the action of the positioning element 32, the first driving element 13 and the second driving element 14 can be pushed to extend outward along the radial direction X of the drive head assembly 1. When the state switching element 12 moves closer to the first driving element 13 and the second driving element 14, the first driving element 13 and the second driving element 14 can be pushed to retract inward along the radial direction X of the drive head assembly 1. In this embodiment, when the state switching element 12 moves along the mounting base 11, the first driving element 13 and the second driving element 14 can be pushed to switch between the retracted state and the extended state. By adjusting the state of the first driving element 13 and the second driving element 14 through the state switching element 12, there is no need to set other driving mechanisms in the device body, resulting in a simple structure.

[0051] The mounting base 11 is provided with a sliding groove, and the state switching component 12 is provided with a protrusion (not shown in the figure). The protrusion slides in conjunction with the sliding groove to limit the movement path of the state switching component 12 on the mounting base 11.

[0052] It should be noted that the connection methods between the first driving component 13 and the second driving component 14 and the state switching component 12 include, but are not limited to, contact and hinge.

[0053] For example, in some embodiments, please continue to refer to the references. Figure 4 and Figure 5The first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14 are disposed opposite each other on both sides of the state switching member 12 along the radial direction X of the drive head assembly 1, and both abut against the state switching member 12. That is, when the state switching member 12 is in the first state, the abutting force applied by the state switching member 12 to the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14 can restrict the movement of the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14. When the state switching member 12 moves from the first position to the second position under the action of the positioning member 32, the state switching member 12 moves away from the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14, and reduces the abutting force applied to the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14, so that the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14 can be pushed to extend outward along the radial direction X of the drive head assembly 1.

[0054] In this embodiment, the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14 are both connected to the state switching member 12 by abutting, which can realize the cooperation between the state switching member 12 and the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14, and facilitate assembly.

[0055] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14 are both hinged to the state switching member 12, and the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14 switch between an extended state and a retracted state under the drive of the state switching member 12.

[0056] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the state switching element 12 can be configured as two, and the two state switching elements 12 and the corresponding driving element are configured as an integral structure, so that the driving element can switch between an extended state and a retracted state under the drive of the state switching element 12.

[0057] Please continue to refer to the reference. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The drive head assembly 1 includes a first connecting shaft 15 and a second connecting shaft 16. The first drive member 13 is rotatably connected to the mounting base 11 via the first connecting shaft 15, and the second drive member 14 is rotatably connected to the mounting base 11 via the first connecting shaft 15, so that the first drive member 13 can rotate relative to the mounting base 11 around the first connecting shaft 15, and the second drive member 14 can rotate relative to the mounting base 11 around the second connecting shaft 16.

[0058] Please continue to refer to the reference. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The drive head assembly 1 also includes a first elastic element 17, one end of which is connected to the first drive element 13, and the other end is connected to the second drive element 14. When the state switching element 12 moves away from the first drive element 13 and the second drive element 14 under the action of an external force, the first drive element 13 and the second drive element 14 can rotate relative to the mounting base 11 under the action of the first elastic element 17 and extend outward along the radial direction X of the drive head assembly 1.

[0059] In other words, when the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14 are in a contracted state, they compress the first elastic member 17, which stores elastic potential energy. When the state switching member 12 moves away from the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14, the contact force applied to the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14 is reduced. At the same time, the pressure on the first elastic member 17 is reduced. At this time, the first elastic member 17 begins to release elastic potential energy, so that the elastic force released by the first elastic member 17 can push the first driving member 13 to rotate around the first connecting shaft 15 and extend outward along the radial X of the driving head, and push the second driving member 14 to rotate around the second connecting shaft 16 and extend outward along the radial X of the driving head, thereby realizing the engagement of the first driving member 13 with the first slot 311a and the engagement of the second driving member 14 with the second slot 311b.

[0060] The first elastic element 17 can be a spring.

[0061] In this embodiment, the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14 extend outward along the radial X of the driving head assembly 1 by setting the first elastic member 17, without the need for other driving mechanisms, which is simple in structure and saves costs.

[0062] Furthermore, such as Figure 8 As shown Figure 4 The enlarged schematic diagram of part A shows that the mounting base 11 is provided with a first limiting block 111 and a second limiting block 112. Along the axial direction Y of the drive head assembly 1, the first limiting block 111 and the second limiting block 112 are located on both sides of the first elastic member 17. The first limiting block 111 and the second limiting block 112 can limit the extension and retraction of the first elastic member 17, preventing the first elastic member 17 from bending during the extension and retraction process, thereby extending the service life of the first elastic member 17 and ensuring the reliability of the drive head assembly 1.

[0063] Please continue to refer to the reference. Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 8 The drive head assembly 1 also includes a second elastic element 18. The mounting base 11 is provided with a limit post 113. One end of the second elastic element 18 is connected to the limit post 113, and the other end is connected to the state switching element 12. The elastic force of the second elastic element 18 is greater than that of the first elastic element 17.

[0064] Under the action of the second elastic element 18, the second elastic element 18 can pull the state switching element 12 to remain in the first position, thereby restricting the movement of the first driving element 13 and the second driving element 14. When the state switching element 12 moves away from the first driving element 13 and the second driving element 14 under the action of the positioning element 32, the state switching element 12 applies a pulling force to the second elastic element 18, at which time the second elastic element 18 stores elastic potential energy. When the state switching element 12 moves away from the positioning element 32, the second elastic element 18 releases the elastic potential energy, and the second elastic element 18 pulls the state switching element 12 to move from the second position to the first position, and increases the resisting force applied to the first driving element 13 and the second driving element 14. Since the elastic force of the second elastic element 18 is greater than the elastic force of the first elastic element 17, the first driving element 13 and the second driving element 14 can be pushed to retract inward along the radial direction X of the drive head assembly 1.

[0065] In this embodiment, the state switching component 12 is reset by setting the second elastic element 18, which eliminates the need for other driving mechanisms, resulting in a simple structure and cost savings.

[0066] Furthermore, the state switching element 12 is provided with a fixing hook 126, and the second elastic element 18 is connected to the state switching element 12 through the fixing hook 126. The second elastic element 18 can be a spring.

[0067] like Figure 9 The diagram shown is a schematic of the first driving component 13 and the second driving component 14. Please refer to the diagram for further information. Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 9 The first driving component 13 includes a first driving part 131, a first connecting part 132, and a first engaging part 133. The first driving part 131 and the first engaging part 133 are connected to the two ends of the first connecting part 132. The first connecting part 132 is rotatably connected to the mounting base 11 via a first connecting shaft 15. The first engaging part 133 is used to cooperate with the first slot 311a, and the first driving part 131 is used to cooperate with the state switching component 12.

[0068] The first driving part 131, the first connecting part 132, and the first snap-fit ​​part 133 can be integrally formed. Alternatively, the first driving part 131, the first connecting part 132, and the first snap-fit ​​part 133 can be formed separately and then fixedly connected. The specific configuration can be determined according to the actual situation, and this embodiment does not limit it.

[0069] The second driving member 14 includes a second driving part 141, a second connecting part 142, and a second engaging part 143. The second driving part 141 and the second engaging part 143 are connected to the two ends of the second connecting part 142. The second connecting part 142 is rotatably connected to the mounting base 11 via a second connecting shaft 16. The second engaging part 143 is used to cooperate with the second slot 311b, and the second driving part 141 is used to cooperate with the state switching member 12.

[0070] The second driving part 141, the second connecting part 142, and the second snap-fit ​​part 143 can be integrally formed. Alternatively, the second driving part 141, the second connecting part 142, and the second snap-fit ​​part 143 can be formed separately and then fixedly connected. The specific configuration can be determined according to the actual situation, and this embodiment does not limit it.

[0071] When the state switching member 12 moves away from the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14 under the action of the positioning member 32, the first locking part 133 and the second locking part 143 are pushed away from each other along the radial X of the driving head assembly 1 by the first elastic member 17, so that the first locking part 133 can extend outward along the radial X of the driving head assembly 1 to cooperate with the first slot 311a, and the second locking part 143 can extend outward along the radial X of the driving head assembly 1 to cooperate with the second slot 311b. At the same time, the first driving part 131 and the second driving part 141 are driven to move closer to each other along the radial X of the driving head assembly 1.

[0072] Furthermore, both the first driving part 131 and the second driving part 141 are always in contact with the state switching member 12, so that when the state switching member 12 approaches the first driving part 13 and the second driving part 14, the state switching member 12 can push the first driving part 131 and the second driving part 141 away from each other along the radial X of the driving head assembly 1, and drive the first locking part 133 and the second locking part 143 to approach each other along the radial X of the driving head assembly 1, so that the first locking part 133 disengages from the first slot 311a and the second locking part 143 disengages from the second slot 311b.

[0073] In this embodiment, the first connecting part 132 is rotatably connected to the first connecting shaft 15, allowing the first engaging part 133 and the first driving part 131 to rotate in opposite directions around the first connecting part 132. The first engaging part 133 and the first driving part 131 are in different states (compressed or extended), enabling the state switching member 12 to switch the state of the first engaging part 133 via the first driving part 131. Similarly, the second connecting part 142 is rotatably connected to the second connecting shaft 16, allowing the second engaging part 143 and the second driving part 141 to rotate in opposite directions around the second connecting part 142. The second engaging part 143 and the second driving part 141 are in different states (compressed or extended), enabling the state switching member 12 to switch the state of the second engaging part 143 via the second driving part 141.

[0074] Please refer to the reference. Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 9A first limiting protrusion 133a is provided on the side of the first engaging portion 133 facing the second engaging portion 143, and a second limiting protrusion 143a is provided on the side of the second engaging portion 143 facing the first engaging portion 133. When the state switching member 12 is in the first position, the first limiting protrusion 133a and the second limiting protrusion 143a are positioned opposite each other and both abut against the side end of the first elastic member 17. In this embodiment, the first limiting protrusion 133a and the second limiting protrusion 143a can limit the extension and retraction of the first elastic member 17, reducing the risk of the first elastic member 17 bending.

[0075] As the drive head assembly 1 moves toward the main drive head 31a, the first drive member 13 and the second drive member 14 extend outward along the radial direction X of the drive head assembly 1. To prevent the movement of the first drive member 13 and the second drive member 14 from interfering with the main drive head 31a, both the first drive member 13 and the second drive member 14 are provided with a clearance portion.

[0076] Specifically, the first engaging portion 133 includes a first bent segment 133b, a second bent segment 133c, a third bent segment 133d, and a fourth bent segment 133e, which are bent in sequence, giving the first engaging portion 133 a bent structure. This results in a first abutment portion 135 being formed on the side of the first engaging portion 133 facing away from the second engaging portion 143. The first abutment portion 135 can provide a buffer during the transition between the first driving member 13 and the retracted state, preventing the first driving member 13 from colliding with the main body driving head 31a.

[0077] The second engaging portion 143 includes a fifth bent segment 143b, a sixth bent segment 143c, a seventh bent segment 143d, and an eighth bent segment 143e, which are bent in sequence, giving the second engaging portion 143 a bent structure. This results in a second avoidance portion 145 being formed on the side of the second engaging portion 143 facing away from the first engaging portion 133. The second avoidance portion 145 can avoid collisions between the second driving member 14 and the main body driving head 31a during the transition between the extended and retracted states.

[0078] like Figure 10 The diagram shows a state switching component 12, which includes a first limiting part 121, a limiting segment 122, a guide segment 123, a stopping segment 124, and a second limiting part 125 connected together. The first limiting part 121, the limiting segment 122, the guide segment 123, the stopping segment 124, and the second limiting part 125 can be integrally formed. Alternatively, the first limiting part 121, the limiting segment 122, the guide segment 123, the stopping segment 124, and the second limiting part 125 can be formed separately and then fixedly connected.

[0079] Please refer to the reference. Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 Along the direction closer to the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14, the cross-sectional area of ​​the guide section 123 gradually decreases. That is, when the state switching member 12 moves away from the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14, the first driving part 131 and the second driving part 141 move along the guide section 123. Specifically, the first driving part 131 and the second driving part 141 move from the direction with the larger cross-sectional area of ​​the guide section 123 towards the direction with the smaller cross-sectional area of ​​the guide section 123, so that the first driving part 131 and the second driving part 141 move closer to each other along the radial X of the drive head assembly 1, so that the first engaging part 133 and the second engaging part 143 move away from each other along the radial X of the drive head assembly 1, thereby switching the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14 from the retracted state to the unfolded state.

[0080] When the state switching member 12 approaches the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14, the first driving part 131 and the second driving part 141 move along the guide section 123. Specifically, the first driving part 131 and the second driving part 141 move from the direction with the smaller cross-sectional area of ​​the guide section 123 to the direction with the larger cross-sectional area of ​​the guide section 123. The guide section 123 can push the first driving part 131 and the second driving part 141 away from each other along the radial X of the drive head assembly 1, so that the first engaging part 133 and the second engaging part 143 move closer to each other along the radial X of the drive head assembly 1, so that the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14 switch from the extended state to the retracted state.

[0081] In this embodiment, the guide segment 123 has a frustum structure, and the end of the guide segment 123 closer to the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14 is a small end face, while the end of the guide segment 123 farther away from the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14 is a large end face.

[0082] The guide section 123 can buffer the extension process of the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14, and prevent the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14 from unfolding too fast and failing to properly engage with the first slot 311a and the second slot 311b.

[0083] The guide section 123 can push the first drive member 13 and the second drive member 14 to retract inward along the radial X direction of the drive head assembly 1, so that the first drive member 13 and the second drive member 14 can disengage from the first slot 311a and the second slot 311b.

[0084] The limiting segment 122 is connected to the end of the guide segment 123 away from the first drive member 13 and the second drive member 14, and the limiting segment 122 is in the shape of a straight rod. When the state switching member 12 is in the first position, both the first drive part 131 and the second drive part 141 abut against the limiting segment 122 to restrict the movement of the first drive part 131 and the second drive part 141 relative to the state switching member 12, thereby restricting the first drive member 13 and the second drive member 14 from extending outward, so that the drive head assembly 1 remains in a non-working state.

[0085] The first limiting part 121 is connected to the end of the limiting segment 122 away from the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14, and the first limiting part 121 protrudes outward along the radial direction X of the drive head assembly 1. The first limiting part 121 can restrict the first driving member 131 and the second driving member 141 from disengaging from the state switching member 12. That is, the first limiting part 121 can prevent the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14 from continuing to move and prevent the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14 from disengaging from the state switching member 12, so as to ensure the stability of the operation of the drive head assembly 1.

[0086] The state switching component 12 is also provided with a stagnation section 124, which is connected to the guide section 123 on the side near the first drive member 13 and the second drive member 14. The stagnation section 124 is in the shape of a straight rod. When the state switching component 12 is in the second position, both the first drive member 131 and the second drive member 141 abut against the stagnation section 124 to keep the drive head assembly 1 in the working state.

[0087] The second limiting part 125 is connected to the end of the stopping section 124 near the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14, and the second limiting part 125 protrudes outward along the radial direction X of the drive head assembly 1. The second limiting part 125 can restrict the first driving member 131 and the second driving member 141 from disengaging from the state switching member 12. That is, the second limiting part 125 can prevent the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14 from continuing to move and prevent the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14 from disengaging from the state switching member 12, so as to ensure the stability of the operation of the drive head assembly 1.

[0088] In some embodiments, the first driving member 13 further includes a first rotating portion 134 rotatably connected to the first driving portion 131, and the second driving member 14 further includes a second rotating portion 144 rotatably connected to the second driving portion 141. When the state switching member 12 switches between a first position and a second position under the action of an external force, both the first rotating portion 134 and the second rotating portion 144 are in rolling contact with the state switching member 12 to reduce the friction generated when the first driving member 13 and the second driving member 14 move along the state switching member 12.

[0089] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A drive head assembly for mounting on a cartridge, the cartridge being detachably mounted to an image forming apparatus, characterized in that, The drive head assembly includes: Mounting base; A first driving member and a second driving member are both mounted on the mounting base and are movable relative to the mounting base; A state switching element is mounted on the mounting base and is movable relative to the mounting base between a first position and a second position. The state switching component can switch between a first position and a second position under the action of external force, so that the first driving component and the second driving component can switch between a contracted state and an extended state, and both the first driving component and the second driving component maintain contact with the state switching component. When the state switching component is in the first position, both the first driving component and the second driving component retract radially inward along the driving head assembly; When the state switching component is in the second position, both the first driving component and the second driving component extend outward along the radial direction of the driving head assembly; The first driving member is provided with a first latching part and a first driving part, and the second driving member is provided with a second latching part and a second driving part. During the process of the state switching member moving from the first position to the second position under the action of external force, the first latching part and the second latching part move away from each other along the radial direction of the driving head assembly. The first driving component includes a first connecting part, which is rotatably connected to the mounting base via a first connecting shaft. The first driving part and the first snap-fit ​​part are connected at both ends of the first connecting part. The second driving component includes a second connecting portion, which is rotatably connected to the mounting base via a second connecting shaft; the second driving portion and the second snap-fit ​​portion are connected at both ends of the second connecting portion. The state switching component is provided with a guide section, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the guide section gradually decreases along the direction close to the first driving component and the second driving component. The state switching component is further provided with a stagnation section, which is connected to the guide section on the side near the first drive component and the second drive component; When the state switching component is in the second position, both the first driving part and the second driving part abut against the stagnation section; The state switching component further includes a second limiting part, which is connected to one end of the stagnant section near the first driving member and the second driving member, and the second limiting part protrudes outward along the radial direction of the driving head assembly.

2. The drive head assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The state switching component is slidably mounted on the mounting base; Both the first driving component and the second driving component are connected to the state switching component; During the process of the state switching component moving from the first position to the second position under the action of external force, both the first driving component and the second driving component can be pushed to extend outward along the radial direction of the driving head assembly.

3. The drive head assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drive head assembly further includes a first elastic element; During the process of the state switching component moving from the first position to the second position under the action of external force, the first driving component and the second driving component can rotate relative to the mounting base under the action of the first elastic component and extend outward along the radial direction of the driving head assembly.

4. The drive head assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, During the process of the state switching member moving from the first position to the second position under the action of external force, the state switching member moves away from the first driving member and the second driving member, and the first driving part and the second driving part move along the guide section.

5. The drive head assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The drive head assembly also includes a second elastic element; The mounting base is provided with a limiting post, and one end of the second elastic member is connected to the limiting post, and the other end is connected to the state switching member; Under the action of the second elastic member, the state switching member can move from the second position to the first position, and the guide segment can push the first driving part and the second driving part away from each other along the radial direction of the driving head assembly, so as to drive the first locking part and the second locking part to move closer to each other along the radial direction of the driving head assembly, so as to switch the first driving member and the second driving member from the extended state to the retracted state.

6. The drive head assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The state switching component is further provided with a limiting segment, which is connected to the end of the guide segment away from the first driving component and the second driving component; When the state switching component is in the first position, both the first driving part and the second driving part abut against the limiting segment, and the limiting segment can restrict the first driving part and the second driving part from extending outward.

7. The drive head assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The state switching component further includes a first limiting part, which is connected to one end of the limiting segment away from the first driving member and the second driving member, and the first limiting part protrudes outward along the radial direction of the driving head assembly. The first limiting part can prevent the first driving part and the second driving part from disengaging from the state switching member.

8. The drive head assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first driving member further includes a first rotating part rotatably connected to the first driving part; The second driving member further includes a second rotating part that is rotatably connected to the second driving part; When the state switching component switches between the first position and the second position under the action of an external force, both the first rotating part and the second rotating part are in rolling contact with the state switching component.

9. The drive head assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, A first limiting protrusion is provided on the side of the first latching portion facing the second latching portion; A second limiting protrusion is provided on the side of the second latching portion facing the first latching portion; When the state switching component is in the first position, the first limiting protrusion and the second limiting protrusion are arranged opposite to each other and abut against the side end of the first elastic component.

10. The drive head assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first snap-fit ​​portion has a bent structure, so that the side of the first snap-fit ​​portion facing away from the second snap-fit ​​portion forms a first clearance portion; The second snap-fit ​​portion has a bent structure, so that the side of the second snap-fit ​​portion facing away from the first snap-fit ​​portion forms a second clearance portion.

11. A box, characterized in that, The box includes: Box body; A drive head assembly, which is mounted on the housing, wherein the drive head assembly is the drive head assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. An image forming apparatus for mounting the box as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that, The image forming apparatus includes: The equipment body is provided with a body drive head and a positioning component. The body drive head is provided with a mating groove, and the side wall of the mating groove is provided with a first slot and a second slot. The positioning member is used to push the state switching member in the drive head assembly of the box to move, so that the state switching member can move from the first position to the second position, and the first drive member and the second drive member move from the contracted state to the extended state, so that the first slot and the second slot can respectively engage with the first drive member and the second drive member.

Images