Consumable cartridge and consumable cartridge set

Abstract

This invention provides a consumable cartridge and a consumable cartridge assembly, relating to the field of printing technology. The consumable cartridge includes a cartridge body, a chip, and at least one connector. The chip is mounted on the cartridge body and includes multiple terminal groups, including a first terminal group, which includes at least one first terminal. The connector has a first portion and a second portion. By electrically connecting the first portion of the connector to the first terminal and contacting the second end of a corresponding pin in the first pin group with the second portion, the first terminal is prevented from contacting the first end of the corresponding pin in the first pin group. This avoids problems such as the inability to install and maintain a stable electrical connection between the first terminal and the pin due to accidental deformation or bending of the pin, and prevents the chip from communicating normally with the image forming apparatus due to wear or oxidation of the first terminal. This improves the safety and stability of chip use in the consumable cartridge.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Printers and other image forming devices are common office equipment, providing convenience for modern offices. These devices contain replaceable ink cartridges filled with ink. To record the ink level and characteristics of the cartridges, a chip is installed within each cartridge; this chip communicates with the contact pins of the image forming device.

[0003] In the prior art, the consumable cartridge is detachably mounted in the mounting unit of the image forming apparatus. The chip in the consumable cartridge has multiple terminals, which are electrically connected to corresponding contacts on the mounting unit.

[0004] However, during the installation process of the consumable box into the mounting unit of the image forming apparatus, the contact pin may be accidentally bent due to improper installation or deformation failure of the contact pin after prolonged use. This may cause unstable contact between certain terminals on the chip of the consumable box and the corresponding contact pin, thereby affecting the normal use of the image forming apparatus.

[0005] Additionally, the terminals on the chip in the consumable box may suffer from friction damage due to prolonged use or oxidation failure due to improper storage of the consumable box. This can lead to a situation where the chip in the consumable box cannot communicate properly with the image forming apparatus, thereby affecting the normal use of the image forming apparatus. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This invention provides a consumable box and a consumable box assembly to solve the problems in the prior art where, due to human or environmental factors, during the process of installing the consumable box into the mounting unit of the image forming apparatus, the contact pins are accidentally bent, resulting in unstable contact between certain terminals on the chip and the contact pins, or the chip terminals fail due to long-term wear or oxidation, causing the chip and the image forming apparatus to be unable to communicate normally, thereby affecting the normal use of the image forming apparatus.

[0007] In a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a consumable box that is detachably mounted in a mounting unit of an image forming apparatus. The mounting unit is provided with a stylus assembly and a conductive unit. The stylus assembly includes a stylus frame, a first stylus group, and a second stylus group. Both the first stylus group and the second stylus group include at least one stylus. Each stylus includes a first end and a second end. In the height direction of the consumable box, the second end is higher than the first end. The consumable box includes a box body, a chip, and at least one connector.

[0008] The chip is mounted on the housing, and the chip includes multiple terminal groups, the multiple terminal groups including a first terminal group, the first terminal group including at least one first terminal;

[0009] In the height direction of the consumable box, the connector is at least partially higher than the second end of the stylus;

[0010] The connector has a first part and a second part, the first part being electrically connected to the first terminal, and the second part being in contact with the second end of the corresponding contact pin in the first contact pin group.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the consumable box has a first state in which it is not inserted into the installation unit and a second state in which it is inserted into the installation unit;

[0012] During the process of the consumable box being installed into the installation unit, the connector abuts against the second end of the corresponding contact pin and receives the abutting force, so that the connector can be displaced in a plane perpendicular to the width direction of the consumable box under the action of the abutting force.

[0013] The cartridge has an ink outlet. When the consumable cartridge is in the second state, the distance between the second part of the connector and the ink outlet in the height direction of the consumable cartridge is a first distance. When the consumable cartridge is in the first state, the distance between the second part of the connector and the ink outlet in the height direction of the consumable cartridge is a second distance.

[0014] The first distance is greater than the second distance.

[0015] In one possible implementation, when the consumable box is in the second state, at least a portion of the second part of the connector intersects the top surface of the second end of the stylus in the height direction of the consumable box.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the box body has a space for accommodating the connector, the first portion including at least a base end, the second portion including at least an arm, the base end and the arm being connected by a connection portion of the connector, and the arm protruding at least partially from the box body in the length direction of the consumable box;

[0017] The base end is electrically connected to the first terminal, and the arm portion is in contact with the second end of the corresponding stylus in the first stylus group.

[0018] In one possible implementation, at least a portion of the base end is angled relative to the connecting portion in the height direction of the consumable box; or...

[0019] At least a portion of the base end is arranged in a helical structure relative to the connecting portion; or...

[0020] At least a portion of the connecting portion is arranged in a circuitous manner relative to the arm portion.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the arm has a fulcrum, and the arm displaces around the fulcrum under the action of an external force; or...

[0022] The space has a second deformable member, and the contact portion between the connecting portion and the arm portion and the second deformable member forms a fulcrum portion. Under the action of external force, the arm portion and the connecting portion are displaced around the fulcrum portion.

[0023] In one possible implementation, a stabilization component is also included;

[0024] The connector is at least partially in contact with the stabilization component; or, the connector is at least partially covered by the stabilization component.

[0025] The stabilization component is configured to limit the displacement of the connector along the height and / or width directions of the consumable box.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the stabilization component includes a first cover and a first deformation member, the first deformation member being connected between the housing and the first cover.

[0027] During the process of the consumable box being inserted into the mounting unit, the first cover abuts against the stylus holder and is movable in the height direction of the consumable box. During the process of the consumable box being removed from the mounting unit, the first deformable member can reset the first cover.

[0028] In one possible implementation, the stabilization component includes a support member, a second cover member, and a third deformation member, wherein the support member is fixedly connected to the connecting component, and the second cover member is rotatably connected to the support member.

[0029] During the process of the consumable box being installed into the mounting unit, the second cover abuts against the stylus holder and can rotate in a plane perpendicular to the width direction of the consumable box. During the process of the consumable box being removed from the mounting unit, the third deforming member can reset the second cover.

[0030] In one possible implementation, the chip further includes a substrate and a memory element, a plurality of terminal groups are electrically connected to the memory element, and the plurality of terminal groups include a second terminal group, the second terminal group including at least one second terminal;

[0031] The second terminal contacts the first end of the corresponding pin in the second pin group; or, the second terminal is electrically connected to the conductive unit, and the projections of the first terminal group and the second terminal group in one of the length direction, width direction, and height direction of the consumable box at least partially overlap.

[0032] Secondly, embodiments of the present invention provide a consumable box assembly, which is detachably installed in the mounting unit of an image forming apparatus. The mounting unit is provided with a stylus assembly, which includes a stylus frame, a first stylus group and a second stylus group. Both the first stylus group and the second stylus group include at least one stylus. Each stylus includes a first end and a second end. In the height direction of the consumable box assembly, the second end is higher than the first end. The consumable box assembly includes a body and at least one connector.

[0033] The main body includes multiple boxes, and the connector includes multiple first parts and one second part. The multiple first parts are respectively disposed on each box of the main body, and the second part is disposed on one box of the main body.

[0034] Each of the housings is provided with a chip, each chip includes multiple terminal groups, the multiple terminal groups include a first terminal group, and the first terminal group includes at least one first terminal;

[0035] The first part of the connector is used for electrical connection to a first terminal of each chip, and the second part is used for contact with the second end of the corresponding pin in the first pin group.

[0036] This invention provides a consumable box and a consumable box assembly. The consumable box includes a box body, a chip, and at least one connector. The chip is mounted on the box body and includes multiple terminal groups, including a first terminal group, which includes at least one first terminal. In the height direction of the consumable box, the connector is at least partially higher than the second end of a contact pin. The connector has a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is electrically connected to the first terminal, and the second portion contacts the second end of a corresponding contact pin in the first contact pin group. By having the first portion of the connector electrically connected to the first terminal and the second portion contacting the second end of a corresponding contact pin in the first contact pin group, the first terminal is prevented from contacting the first end of the corresponding contact pin in the first contact pin group. This avoids problems such as the inability to install and maintain a stable electrical connection between the first terminal and the contact pin due to accidental deformation or bending of the contact pin, as well as situations where the chip and the image forming apparatus cannot communicate normally due to wear or oxidation failure of the first terminal. This improves the safety and stability of chip use in the consumable box. Attached Figure Description

[0037] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention 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 the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0038] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a consumable box installed in the mounting unit of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the installation unit in the diagram;

[0040] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the stylus provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 4 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of the consumable box in the middle;

[0042] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A partial schematic diagram of the consumable box in its second state;

[0043] Figure 6 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram showing the disassembled parts of the consumables box;

[0044] Figure 7 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the connecting parts in the diagram;

[0045] Figure 8 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the chip structure in the diagram;

[0046] Figure 9 This is a partial schematic diagram of a consumable box in a second state according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 10 for Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the box in the middle;

[0048] Figure 11 for Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the connecting parts in the diagram;

[0049] Figure 12 for Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the chip structure in the diagram;

[0050] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a consumable box provided in Embodiment 3 of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 14 for Figure 13 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0052] Figure 15 for Figure 13 A schematic diagram showing the disassembled parts of the consumables box;

[0053] Figure 16 for Figure 13 A schematic diagram of the connecting parts in the diagram;

[0054] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a consumable box provided in Embodiment 4 of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 18 for Figure 17 A schematic diagram showing the disassembled parts of the consumables box;

[0056] Figure 19 for Figure 17 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first covering element in the diagram;

[0057] Figure 20 for Figure 17 A partial schematic diagram of the consumable box in its second state;

[0058] Figure 21 for Figure 17 A partial cross-sectional view of the consumable box in its second state;

[0059] Figure 22 This is a partial schematic diagram of a consumable box in a second state according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention;

[0060] Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a consumable box provided in Embodiment Six of the present invention;

[0061] Figure 24 This is a schematic diagram of the mounting unit of the image forming apparatus provided in Embodiment Six of the present invention;

[0062] Figure 25 for Figure 23 A schematic diagram of the connecting parts in the diagram;

[0063] Figure 26 for Figure 23 A schematic diagram of the connecting components in the diagram;

[0064] Figure 27 for Figure 23 A partial schematic diagram of the consumables box in the middle;

[0065] Figure 28 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a consumable box installed in the mounting unit of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention;

[0066] Figure 29 for Figure 28 A schematic diagram of the structure of the consumable box in the middle;

[0067] Figure 30 for Figure 28 A schematic diagram of the chip structure in the diagram;

[0068] Figure 31 for Figure 28 A schematic diagram of the connecting parts in the diagram;

[0069] Figure 32 for Figure 28 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first covering element in the diagram;

[0070] Figure 33 for Figure 28 Schematic diagram of the coupling component in the middle

[0071] Figure 34 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a consumable box assembly installed in the mounting unit of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 8 of the present invention;

[0072] Figure 35 for Figure 34 A partial schematic diagram of the consumable cartridge assembly installed in the mounting unit of the image forming apparatus;

[0073] Figure 36 for Figure 34 A schematic diagram of the structure of the consumable box assembly;

[0074] Figure 37 for Figure 36 A schematic diagram of the connecting parts.

[0075] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0076] 1-Consumable box; 11-Box body; 111-Restoration part; 1111-Fixing part; 1112-Apartment clearance part; 1113-Protrusion; 112-Receiving part; 1121-Sliding groove; 113-Engaging protrusion; 114-Clamping protrusion; 1141-Clamping space; 115-Ink outlet; 116-Aligned part; 117-Tray; 118-Liquid container; 119-Connecting component; 1191-Recess; 1192-First slot; 1193-Auxiliary protrusion; 110-Handle; 141-Embedded groove;

[0077] 12-Chip; 120-Substrate; 1201-Inner surface; 1202-Outer surface; 121-First terminal; 122-Second terminal; 123-Memory element; 124-Notch; 13-Connector; 1301-First part; 1302-Second part; 131-Base end; 132-Connecting part; 1321-Engaging hole; 1322-Allowing opening; 1323-First connecting part; 1324-Bend-around part;

[0078] 133-Arm section; 1331-First arm plate; 1332-Second arm plate; 1333-Connecting arm plate; 1334-Space opening; 133a-Supporting body; 133b-Rotating part; 133c-Contact part;

[0079] 14-Second deformable element; 15-First cover element; 151-Sliding protrusion; 152-Second positioning protrusion; 153-First receiving groove; 16-First deformable element; 17-Support element; 171-Second slot; 18-Second cover element; 181-Second receiving groove; 19-Coupling element; 191-First connecting section; 192-Second connecting section; 193-Third connecting section;

[0080] 100-Stimulator holder; 101-Stimulator; 1011-First end; 1012-Second end; 1013-First surface; 1014-Second surface; 1015-Third surface; 102-Conductive unit; 103-Alignment part; 104-Support frame. Detailed Implementation

[0081] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0082] It should be noted that the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0083] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "fixation," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between the components; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0084] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0085] In the above description, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0086] During the process of installing the consumable box into the mounting unit of the image forming apparatus, the contact pin may be accidentally bent due to improper installation or deformation failure of the contact pin after prolonged use. This may cause unstable contact between certain terminals on the chip of the consumable box and the corresponding contact pin, thereby affecting the normal use of the image forming apparatus.

[0087] Additionally, the terminals on the chip in the consumable box may suffer from friction damage due to prolonged use or oxidation failure due to improper storage of the consumable box. This can lead to a situation where the chip in the consumable box cannot communicate properly with the image forming apparatus, thereby affecting the normal use of the image forming apparatus.

[0088] To address the aforementioned problems, embodiments of the present invention provide a consumable box and a consumable box assembly. The consumable box includes a box body, a chip, and at least one connector. The chip includes multiple terminal groups, including a first terminal group, which includes at least one first terminal. The connector has a first portion and a second portion. By electrically connecting the first portion of the connector to the first terminal and contacting the second end of a corresponding pin in the first pin group with the second portion, the first terminal is prevented from contacting the first end of the corresponding pin in the first pin group. This avoids the problems of the first terminal and pin being unable to be installed or stably electrically connected due to accidental deformation or bending of the pin, as well as the situation where the chip and the image forming apparatus cannot communicate normally due to wear or oxidation failure of the first terminal, thereby improving the safety and stability of chip use in the consumable box.

[0089] The consumable box and consumable box assembly provided in the embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments.

[0090] Example 1

[0091] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, an embodiment of the present invention provides a consumable box 1, which is detachably installed in the mounting unit of an image forming apparatus. The mounting unit is provided with a stylus assembly, which includes a stylus holder 100, a first stylus group and a second stylus group. Both the first stylus group and the second stylus group include at least one stylus 101. Each stylus 101 includes a first end 1011 and a second end 1012. In the height direction of the consumable box 1, the second end 1012 is higher than the first end 1011.

[0092] A rectangular coordinate system is established for consumable box 1. The X-axis is the length direction of consumable box 1, the Y-axis is the width direction of consumable box 1, and the Z-axis is the height direction of consumable box 1.

[0093] The mounting unit has at least one mounting position, each mounting position holds a consumable box 1, and each mounting position corresponds to a contact pin assembly. In this embodiment, the mounting unit has four mounting positions.

[0094] like Figure 3 As shown, the second end 1012 of the stylus 101 is located on the top side of the stylus 101 in the height direction of the consumable box 1. The top surface of the second end 1012 includes a first surface 1013, a second surface 1014 and a third surface 1015. The second surface 1014 is connected between the first surface 1013 and the third surface 1015. The first surface 1013 and the third surface 1015 are both curved surfaces, and the second surface 1014 is a plane. In the height direction of the consumable box 1, the first surface 1013, the second surface 1014 and the third surface 1015 are all higher than the first end 1011.

[0095] like Figures 4 to 6As shown, the consumable box 1 includes a box body 11, a chip 12, and at least one connector 13; the chip 12 is mounted on the box body 11, and the chip 12 includes multiple terminal groups, including a first terminal group, and the first terminal group includes at least one first terminal 121 (see...). Figure 8 (as shown); in the height direction of the consumable box 1, the connector 13 is at least partially higher than the second end 1012 of the stylus 101; the connector 13 has a first portion 1301 and a second portion 1302 (see...). Figure 7 (As shown).

[0096] Each connector 13 corresponds to a contact pin 101 and a first terminal 121.

[0097] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the first portion 1301 of the connector 13 is electrically connected to the first terminal 121; the second portion 1302 of the connector 13 can be connected to the second end 1012 of the corresponding contact pin 101 in the first contact pin group (see...). Figure 3 (As shown) It can also contact the corresponding terminal on the main control circuit board located behind the stylus assembly in the mounting unit of the image forming apparatus. In this embodiment, the second part 1302 of the connector 13 contacts the second end 1012 of the corresponding stylus 101 in the first stylus group.

[0098] The connector 13 is made of a conductive material. In some examples, to ensure safety during use, the remaining portion of the connector 13, except for the base end 131 and the arm 133, is coated or provided with an insulating layer.

[0099] The number of connectors 13 is equal to the number of first terminals 121, that is, each connector 13 corresponds to one first terminal 121. In this embodiment, the number of connectors 13 is one, and the number of first terminals 121 is also one.

[0100] The connector 13 and the chip 12 can be connected by means of welding, bonding or snap-fitting.

[0101] When the consumable box 1 is installed in the mounting position of the mounting unit, the second part 1302 of the connector 13 contacts the second end 1012 of the corresponding contact pin 101 in the first contact pin group.

[0102] The second portion 1302 of the connector 13 can contact the first surface 1013, the second surface 1014, and the third surface 1015. In this embodiment, as... Figure 5 As shown, the second part 1302 of the connector 13 is in contact with the second surface 1014.

[0103] The consumable box provided in this embodiment of the invention is electrically connected to the first terminal 121 via the first part 1301 of the connector 13, and the second part 1302 contacts the second end 1012 of the corresponding contact in the first contact pin group. This prevents the first terminal 121 from contacting the first end of the corresponding contact in the first contact pin group, avoiding the problem of the first terminal 121 and the contact pin being unable to be installed and electrically connected due to accidental deformation and bending of the contact pin, as well as the situation where the chip and the image forming device cannot communicate normally due to wear or oxidation failure of the first terminal, thereby improving the safety and stability of chip use in the consumable box.

[0104] In one possible implementation, such as Figure 8 As shown, the chip 12 also includes a substrate 120 and a storage element 123. Multiple terminal groups are electrically connected to the storage element 123. The multiple terminal groups include a second terminal group, which includes at least one second terminal 122 (see [reference]). Figure 6 (As shown); the second terminal 122 contacts the first end 1011 of the corresponding contact pin 101 in the second contact pin group.

[0105] Among them, the storage element 123 stores information about the chip 12, such as information about the manufacturer, ink volume, consumable box type, and ink color.

[0106] The first terminal group and the second terminal group at least partially overlap in projection along the length or height of the consumable box 1. In some examples, the first terminal group is located on the side of the substrate 120 facing the box body 11, and the second terminal group is located on the side of the substrate 120 away from the box body 11, with the projections of the first and second terminal groups at least partially overlapping in the length direction of the consumable box 1. In other examples, the first terminal group is located on the side of the substrate 120 away from the box body 11 or on the top side of the substrate 120, and the second terminal group is located on the side of the substrate 120 away from the box body 11, with the projections of the first and second terminal groups at least partially overlapping in the height direction of the consumable box 1.

[0107] Both the first terminal 121 and the second terminal 122 are electrically connected to the storage element 123. The first terminal 121 can be any terminal on the chip 12, and the second terminal 122 is one of the remaining terminals on the chip 12 after removing the first terminal 121.

[0108] The first terminal 121 can be located on the side of the substrate 120 facing the housing 11, and the second terminal 122 can be located on the side of the substrate 120 away from the housing 11. Specifically, as follows Figure 6 and Figure 8As shown, the substrate 120 has an inner surface 1201 facing the housing 11 and an outer surface 1202 facing away from the housing 11. The first terminal 121 is located on the inner surface 1201, and the second terminal 122 is located on the outer surface 1202. This arrangement effectively prevents short circuits between the first terminal 121 and the second terminal 122 caused by conductive foreign matter adhering between the first terminal group and the second terminal group, thereby preventing the chip 12 from being burned out or becoming unrecognizable, and thus improving the safety of the chip 12 and the image forming apparatus.

[0109] In some examples, when chip 12 includes a ground terminal, a power terminal, a reset terminal, a clock terminal, and a data terminal, the first terminal group includes a first terminal 121, which can be one of the ground terminal, power terminal, reset terminal, clock terminal, and data terminal. The second terminal group includes the remaining terminals other than the first terminal in the first terminal group. It should be noted that the ground terminal is used to receive a ground potential; the power terminal is used to receive a power potential different from the ground potential (e.g., 3.6V or 3.3V), providing power for the operation of the storage element 123; the reset terminal is used to reset the data inside the storage element 123; the clock terminal is used to receive a clock signal; and the data terminal is used to transmit or receive data signals and also to detect whether a short circuit occurs between the data terminal and at least one of the clock terminal, reset terminal, and power terminal.

[0110] In one possible implementation, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the box body 11 is provided with a space, which includes a placement part 111 and a receiving part 112. The first part 1301 of the connector 13 includes at least a base end 131 and a connecting part 132, and the second part 1302 includes at least an arm 133. The base end 131 and the arm 133 are connected by the connecting part 132 of the connector 13. In the length direction of the consumable box 1, the arm 133 protrudes at least partially from the box body 11. At least a portion of the base end 131 is electrically connected to the first terminal 121, and at least a portion of the arm 133 contacts the second end 1012 of the corresponding contact pin 101 in the first contact pin group.

[0111] Both the placement section 111 and the receiving section 112 can be recessed into the box body 11.

[0112] The base end 131 is at least partially located in the placement part 111, the connecting part 132 is installed in the placement part 111, and the arm part 133 is partially located in the receiving part 112.

[0113] At least a portion of the arm portion 133 is intersecting with the connecting portion 132. The connecting portion 132 is provided with a locking hole 1321, and a locking protrusion 113 is provided at a corresponding position in the mounting portion 111. The connecting portion 132 is engaged with the locking protrusion 113 through the locking hole 1321, so that the connecting portion 132 is installed in the mounting portion 111.

[0114] The box body 11 is provided with at least two clamping protrusions 114, and the at least two clamping protrusions 114 are provided with clamping space 1141 in the width direction of the consumable box 1. The arm 133 is at least partially clamped in the clamping space 1141, thereby limiting the arm 133 in the width direction of the consumable box 1.

[0115] There is a clearance opening 1322 between the connecting part 132 and the arm part 133. When the connecting part 13 is installed on the box body 11, a part of the clamping protrusion 114 can be avoided through the clearance opening 1322.

[0116] The first part 1301 is disposed on the base end 131, and the second part 1302 is disposed on the arm 133.

[0117] In one possible implementation, such as Figure 6 As shown, the consumable box 1 also includes a second deformable member 14, which is located in the placement part 111. At least a portion of the connecting part 132 and the arm part 133 of the connector 13 are in contact with the second deformable member 14. The connector 13 has a gap between a portion of the connector 13 and the inner wall of the placement part 111 in the height direction of the consumable box.

[0118] The second deformation element 14 is made of a deformation material, and in some embodiments the second deformation element 14 can be a spring or rubber.

[0119] When the consumable box 1 is inserted into the installation unit, the arm 133 is at least partially intersecting with the second surface 1014 of the second end 1012 of the stylus 101. That is, the arm 133 extends at least partially toward the second end 1012 of the stylus 101, so that the arm 133 at least partially intersects with the second surface 1014 of the second end 1012 of the stylus 101.

[0120] In one possible implementation, the consumable box 1 has a first state in which it is not installed in the installation unit and a second state in which it is installed in the installation unit.

[0121] The connector 13 has a fulcrum on the part that contacts the auxiliary component of the consumable box 1. During the process of the consumable box 1 being installed into the installation unit, the connector 13 abuts against the second end 1012 of the corresponding contact pin 101, and the connector 13 rotates in a plane perpendicular to the width direction of the consumable box 1 with the fulcrum as the center.

[0122] The auxiliary component can be the second deformable member 14. The contact portion of the connecting portion 132 and the arm portion 133 with the second deformable member 14 forms a fulcrum portion, and the arm portion 133 and the connecting portion 132 are displaced around the fulcrum portion under the action of external force.

[0123] like Figure 5 As shown, during the process of inserting the consumable box 1 into the installation unit, the second part 1302 of the connector 13 abuts against the second end 1012 of the contact pin 101 of the first contact pin group. The second end 1012 of the contact pin 101 applies a force toward the second part 1302, and the second part 1302 receives the abutting force, so that the connector 13 can be displaced in a plane perpendicular to the width direction of the consumable box under the action of the abutting force. Specifically, the arm 133 of the connector 13 rotates around the fulcrum in the +W direction, and the connector 13... When the connecting part 132 is displaced in the +Z direction, the second deformable member 14 deforms due to the force of the connecting member 13. When the consumable box 1 is fully installed in the installation unit, the second deformable member 14 needs to recover its deformation, so it applies a force toward the arm 133 of the connecting member 13. This can increase the contact force between the second part 1302 and the second end 1012 of the corresponding contact pin 101 in the first contact pin group, thereby enabling a stable electrical connection between the connecting member 13 and the second end 1012 of the corresponding contact pin 101 in the first contact pin group.

[0124] When the consumable box 1 is removed from the mounting unit, the connector 13 moves along the -W direction under the deformation force of the second deformation member 14 (see...). Figure 5 The connector 13 and the second deforming member 14 can be rotated to restore the consumable box 1 to the state when it is in the first state.

[0125] Both the +W and -W directions lie in a plane perpendicular to the width direction of consumable box 1.

[0126] The portion of the connector 13 located in the mounting section 111 has a gap with the inner wall of the mounting section 111, which allows the portion of the connector 13 located in the mounting section 111 to move toward the gap in the height direction of the consumable box 1 when the connector 13 rotates about the fulcrum in the +W direction.

[0127] In one possible implementation, such as Figure 4 As shown, the cartridge 11 has an ink outlet 115. When the consumable cartridge 1 is in the second state, the distance between the second part 1302 of the connector 13 and the ink outlet 115 in the height direction of the consumable cartridge 1 is a first distance. When the consumable cartridge 1 is in the first state, the distance between the second part 1302 of the connector 13 and the ink outlet 115 in the height direction of the consumable cartridge 1 is a second distance.

[0128] The first distance is greater than the second distance.

[0129] It should be noted that all the terminal groups are located on the same side of the center line of the ink outlet.

[0130] This invention also provides a consumable box assembly, including a plurality of consumable boxes 1, which are detachably mounted in the mounting unit of the image forming apparatus.

[0131] The consumable box 1 in this embodiment has the same structure as the consumable box provided in the above embodiments and can bring the same or similar technical effects. It will not be described in detail here. For details, please refer to the description of the above embodiments.

[0132] It should be noted that, regardless of whether the connector 13 is made of rigid material or deformable material in this embodiment, by providing a deformable second deformable part 14 on the consumable box, the deformation resistance of the connector 13 can be enhanced, and the inelastic deformation caused by the long-term contact and abutment between the arm 133 of the connector 13 and the second end 1012 of the corresponding contact 101 in the first contact pin group can be prevented, thereby avoiding the hidden danger of unstable electrical connection and improving the stability of chip use.

[0133] Example 2

[0134] The consumable box 1 in Embodiment 2 differs from that in Embodiment 1 in that the structure of the connector 13 is different, the structure of the first terminal group is different, and there is no second deforming component 14 in Embodiment 2. The structure of the remaining parts is the same as that in Embodiment 1.

[0135] In one possible implementation, such as Figures 9 to 12 As shown, the space of the box 11 includes a placement part 111 and a receiving part 112. The placement part 111 is located behind the chip 12 in the length direction of the consumable box. The placement part 111 is provided with a fixing part 1111, which protrudes from the inner wall surface of the placement part 111. The fixing part 1111 is provided with a clearance part 1112, which is used to accommodate at least part of the storage element 123 when the chip 12 and the box 11 of the consumable box 1 are in the installed state.

[0136] like Figure 11As shown, the connector 13 is made of a flexible conductive material. The connector 13 includes a base end 131, a connecting portion 132, and an arm portion 133. The connecting portion 132 includes a first connecting portion 1323 and a meandering portion 1324. The first connecting portion 1323 connects the base end 131 and the arm portion 133. At least a portion of the base end 131 is arranged in a spiral structure relative to the first connecting portion 1323. The portion of the first part 1301 electrically connected to the first terminal 121 is located on the outermost arcuate surface 1311 of the base end 131. The first connecting portion 1323 is arranged at an angle relative to the arm portion 133. The meandering portion 1324 connects to the arm portion 133 and is arranged in a meandering structure relative to the arm portion 133. The meandering structure can be understood as being composed of multiple bent segments. The consumable box has a protrusion 1113 on its body, and one end of the meandering portion 1324 is wound around the protrusion 1113. The base end 131 is wound around the fixing portion 1111. At least a portion of the first connecting portion 1323 and the arm portion 133 are located in the receiving portion 112. In the length direction of the consumable box 1, at least a portion of the arm portion 133 protrudes from the box body 11. At least a portion of the base end portion 131 is electrically connected to the first terminal 121, and at least a portion of the arm portion 133 contacts the second end 1012 of the corresponding contact pin 101 in the first contact pin group. At least a portion of the arm portion 133 is clamped in the receiving portion 112, thereby limiting the arm portion 133 in the width direction of the consumable box 1.

[0137] The arm 133 is constructed by bending a flexible conductive wire, and the part where the arm 133 is connected to the detour part 1324 forms a fulcrum. During the process of the consumable box 1 being installed into the installation unit, the connector 13 abuts against the second end 1012 of the corresponding contact pin 101, and the arm 133 rotates in a plane perpendicular to the width direction of the consumable box 1 with the fulcrum as the center.

[0138] like Figure 12 As shown, the chip 12 also includes a substrate 120 and a storage element 123. A first terminal 121 is located on the side of the substrate 120 facing the housing 11. Multiple terminal groups include a second terminal group, and the second terminal group includes at least one second terminal 122 (see [reference]). Figure 6 (As shown); the second terminal 122 contacts the first end 1011 of the corresponding contact 101 in the second contact pin group. The first terminal 121 is disposed adjacent to the storage element 123 and is constructed as an arc shape. In the length direction of the consumable box 1, the projections of the first terminal 121 and the second terminal 122 at least partially overlap. When the chip 12 and the box body 11 of the consumable box 1 are in the mounted state, the base end 131 abuts against the side of the substrate 120 facing the box body 11, and the arc surface 1311 is electrically connected to the first terminal 121.

[0139] The substrate 120 has a notch 124. When the consumable cartridge 1 is inserted into the image forming apparatus, the first end 1011 of the first stylus 101 in the first stylus group enters the placement part 111 through the notch 124.

[0140] Example 3

[0141] The consumable box 1 in Embodiment 3 differs from that in Embodiment 1 in that the structure of the connector 13 is different, and there is no second deforming component 14 in Embodiment 3. The structure of the remaining parts is the same as that in Embodiment 1.

[0142] In one possible implementation, such as Figures 13 to 16 As shown, the arm 133 includes a first arm plate 1331, a second arm plate 1332, and a connecting arm plate 1333. The first arm plate 1331 and the second arm plate 1332 are respectively connected to the connecting arm plate 1333. In the height direction of the consumable box 1, the first arm plate 1331 is located above the second arm plate 1332, and there is a space opening 1334 between the first arm plate 1331 and the second arm plate 1332.

[0143] The box body 11 is provided with at least one set of clamping protrusions 114 (see [reference]). Figure 6 As shown, there is a clamping space 1141 between the clamping protrusions 114 in the width direction of the consumable box 1. The connecting arm plate 1333 is restricted in the clamping space 1141, thereby limiting the arm 133 in the width direction of the consumable box 1, thus preventing the arm 133 from moving in the width direction of the consumable box 1, and ensuring that the arm 133 contacts the second end 1012 of the corresponding contact pin 101 in the first contact pin group.

[0144] like Figure 16 As shown, the first arm plate 1331 and the second arm plate 1332 do not contact each other. The second arm plate 1332 has a supporting body 133a, a rotating part 133b, and a contact part 133c. The supporting body 133a is connected to the connecting arm plate 1333. The rotating part 133b and the contact part 133c are disposed on the supporting body 133a. The rotating part 133b is located on the side of the supporting body 133a facing the connecting arm plate 1333, and the contact part 133c is located on the side of the supporting body 133a away from the connecting arm plate 1333. The contact part 133c contacts the second end 1012 of the corresponding stylus 101 in the first stylus group. The side of the supporting body 133a away from the connecting arm plate 1333 can be displaced toward the space opening 1334 under the action of external force.

[0145] In the height direction of the consumable box 1, the rotating part 133b and the contact part 133c are located on the lower side of the support body 133a.

[0146] The structure of the base end portion 131 and the structure of the connecting portion 132 of the connector 13 in Embodiment 3 are the same as those of the base end portion 131 and the connecting portion 132 of the connector 13 in Embodiment 1.

[0147] The first part 1301 is disposed on the base end 131, and the second part 1302 is disposed on the contact part 133c.

[0148] The rotating part 133b can be a notch. The contact part 133c can be a protrusion.

[0149] The rotating part 133b can serve as a fulcrum. When the side of the supporting body 133a away from the connecting arm plate 1333 is subjected to an external force, it can deform around the fulcrum, thereby allowing the side of the supporting body 133a away from the connecting arm plate 1333 to move toward the space opening 1334.

[0150] During the process of inserting the consumable box 1 into the installation unit, the second part 1302 of the connector 13 abuts against the second end 1012 of the contact pin 101 of the first contact pin group. The second end 1012 of the contact pin 101 applies a force toward the second part 1302, causing the second arm plate 1332 to rotate around the fulcrum in the +W direction (see Figure 5). Under the action of external force, the second arm plate 1332 deforms toward the direction closer to the space opening 1334. When the consumable box 1 is completely inserted into the installation unit, the second arm plate 1332 applies a force toward the second end 1012 of the contact pin 101, which can increase the contact force between the second part 1302 and the second end of the corresponding contact pin in the first contact pin group, thereby enabling a stable electrical connection between the connector 13 and the second end of the corresponding contact pin in the first contact pin group.

[0151] When the consumable box 1 is removed from the installation unit, the second arm plate 1332 rotates along the -W direction under its own deformation force, so that the connector 13 can be restored to the state when the consumable box 1 is in the first state.

[0152] Both the +W and -W directions lie in a plane perpendicular to the width direction of consumable box 1.

[0153] It should be noted that by using a deformable material for at least a portion of the connector 13 in this embodiment, the deformation resistance of the connector 13 can be enhanced, and the inelastic deformation caused by prolonged contact between the arm of the connector 13 and the second end 1012 of the corresponding contact pin 101 in the first contact pin group can be avoided, thereby preventing the potential for unstable electrical connection and improving the stability of chip use.

[0154] Example 4

[0155] The consumable box 1 in Embodiment 4 differs from that in Embodiment 3 in that it includes a stabilization component. The remaining structures are identical in Embodiment 4 and Embodiment 3.

[0156] In one possible implementation, the consumable box 1 further includes a stabilization component; the stabilization component is configured to limit the displacement of the connector 13 along the height and / or width directions of the consumable box 1.

[0157] In one embodiment, connector 13 may be at least partially covered by the stabilization component. In another embodiment, connector 13 may at least partially contact the stabilization component.

[0158] The stabilization component can limit the displacement of the connector 13 along the height and width directions of the consumable box 1; the stabilization component can also limit the displacement of the connector 13 along the height direction of the consumable box 1; the stabilization component can also limit the displacement of the connector 13 along the width direction of the consumable box 1.

[0159] In one possible implementation, such as Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown, the stabilization component includes a first cover 15 and a first deformable member 16. The first deformable member 16 is connected between the box body 11 and the first cover 15. When the consumable box 1 is not installed in the installation unit, a portion of the connector 13 is contained within the first cover 15, and at least a portion of the second part 1302 of the connector 13 is exposed outside the first cover 15.

[0160] Among them, such as Figure 18 As shown, two sliding grooves 1121 are provided on the side wall of the receiving portion 112 of the box body 11. The sliding grooves 1121 extend along the height direction of the consumable box 1. The first cover 15 has two sliding protrusions 151 (see Figure 19 As shown, the two sliding protrusions 151 are located on both sides of the first cover 15 in the width direction of the consumable box 1. The two sliding protrusions 151 are slidably disposed in the two sliding grooves 1121. The first cover 15 can slide in the height direction of the consumable box 1 under the action of external force.

[0161] The first deformable element 16 can be a spring, and it is located in the receiving portion 112. A first positioning protrusion (not shown in the figure) is provided on the top wall of the receiving portion 112, and a second positioning protrusion 152 (see figure) is provided on the first cover 15. Figure 19 As shown, the second positioning protrusion 152 is located on the top side of the first cover 15 in the height direction of the consumable box 1, and the first deformable member 16 is connected to the first positioning protrusion and the second positioning protrusion 152 respectively.

[0162] like Figure 19As shown, the first cover 15 has a first receiving groove 153, which extends through the first cover 15 along the length of the consumable box 1. When the consumable box 1 is not installed in the mounting unit, the arm 133 of the connector 13 is at least partially received in the first receiving groove 153, and the second portion 1302 of the arm 133 is exposed from the first receiving groove 153. When the consumable box 1 is not installed in the mounting unit, the first receiving groove 153 can limit the displacement of the connector 13 along the height and width directions of the consumable box 1. Moreover, since the arm 133 of the connector 13 is at least partially received in the first receiving groove 153, the stabilization component can protect the connector 13, preventing the connector 13 from being severely bent or damaged when the consumable box 1 is violently installed or accidentally dropped from a height. This allows the connector 13 to have a stable electrical connection with the corresponding contact pin 101, thereby improving the stability of the electrical connection between the chip 12 and the contact pin assembly.

[0163] In one possible implementation, the mounting position of the mounting unit is provided with an alignment portion 103 (see [link]). Figure 2 As shown), the consumable box 1 has an alignment portion 116 on its body 11 (see...). Figure 18 As shown, when the consumable box 1 is installed in the mounting position of the mounting unit, the alignment part 116 engages with the alignment part 103, which can limit the width direction of the consumable box 1.

[0164] The installation direction of consumable box 1 is +H (see...). Figure 1 As shown), the +H direction is parallel to the height direction of consumable box 1.

[0165] The alignment part 116 is the alignment surface, and the box body 11 has two alignment surfaces in the width direction of the consumable box 1; the alignment part 103 is located on the housing of the mounting unit, and the alignment part 103 is an alignment protrusion. Multiple alignment protrusions are provided on the mounting position of the mounting unit, and the two alignment surfaces are respectively engaged with the multiple alignment protrusions.

[0166] like Figure 20 and Figure 21As shown, during the process of inserting the consumable box 1 into the mounting unit, the first cover 15 abuts against the stylus holder 100 and can move in the height direction of the consumable box 1. Specifically, the alignment part 116 of the consumable box 1 engages with the alignment part 103 of the mounting position of the mounting unit and enters the mounting position of the mounting unit along the mounting direction of the consumable box 1; then, the consumable box moves to abut the first cover 15 of the stabilizing component against the stylus holder 100; then, the first cover 15 moves along the -H direction and compresses the first deforming member 16, and the connector 13 moves along the +H direction; then, the connector 13 partially protrudes from the first receiving groove 153, the second part 1302 of the connector 13 abuts against the second end 1012 of the stylus 101 of the first stylus group, the second part 1302 is pressed by the second end 1012 of the stylus 101, and the second arm plate 1332 moves around the fulcrum in the +W direction (see Figure 5 As shown, when the second arm plate 1332 rotates, it deforms. When the consumable box 1 is fully installed in the mounting unit, the second arm plate 1332 applies a force toward the second end 1012 of the stylus 101, which can increase the contact force between the second part 1302 and the second end of the corresponding stylus in the first stylus group, thereby enabling a stable electrical connection between the connector 13 and the second end of the corresponding stylus in the first stylus group.

[0167] It should be noted that during the installation of the consumable box 1, the consumable box 1 is moved to abut against the first cover 15 of the stabilization component and the stylus holder 100. This serves to prevent misinstallation of the consumable box. If the consumable box is incorrectly installed in a non-designated mounting unit of the image forming apparatus, it will cause installation interference. This serves to remind the user that the consumable box 1 has been incorrectly installed, allowing the user to promptly adjust the consumable box 1 to the correct mounting unit of the image forming apparatus. During the installation of the consumable box 1, the first receiving groove 153 of the first cover 15 restricts the displacement of the connector 13 along the width direction of the consumable box 1. This guides the connector 13 to make a correct electrical connection with the corresponding stylus, thereby enabling the chip 12 of the consumable box 1 to communicate normally with the mounting unit of the image forming apparatus, thus ensuring the normal operation of the image forming apparatus.

[0168] During the removal of the consumable box 1 from the installation unit, the first deforming element 16 can reset the first cover 15. Specifically, as the consumable box 1 is disassembled along the -H direction, the second arm plate 1332 rotates along the -W direction under its own deformation force, thereby allowing the connector 13 to return to the state when the consumable box 1 is in the first state. The first cover 15 moves along the +H direction under the action of the first deforming element 16, allowing both the first cover 15 and the first deforming element 16 to return to the state when the consumable box 1 is in the first state.

[0169] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, as Figure 21As shown, the second part 1302 of the connector 13 contacts the first surface 1013 of the second end 1012 of the first stylus 101 of the first stylus group.

[0170] This invention also provides a consumable box assembly, including a plurality of consumable boxes 1, which are detachably mounted in the mounting unit of the image forming apparatus.

[0171] The consumable box 1 in this embodiment has the same structure as the consumable box provided in the above embodiments and can bring the same or similar technical effects. It will not be described in detail here. For details, please refer to the description of the above embodiments.

[0172] Each consumable box 1 in the consumable box group is configured with a connector 13 and a stabilization component.

[0173] Example 5

[0174] like Figure 22 As shown, the consumable box 1 in Embodiment 5 differs from that in Embodiment 4 in that the second part 1302 of the connector 13 in Embodiment 5 is connected to the third surface 1015 of the second end 1012 of the first stylus group (see...). Figure 3 (As shown) Contact.

[0175] Example 6

[0176] like Figure 23 and Figure 24 As shown, this embodiment of the invention provides a consumable box 1, which is detachably installed in the mounting unit of an image forming apparatus. The mounting unit is provided with a stylus holder 100 and a stylus assembly. The stylus assembly includes a first stylus group and a second stylus group, and both the first stylus group and the second stylus group include at least one stylus 101 (see Embodiment 1). Figure 3 As shown, each stylus 101 includes a first end 1011 and a second end 1012. In the height direction of the consumable box 1, the second end 1012 is higher than the first end 1011.

[0177] Consumable box 1 includes a box body 11, a chip 12, and at least one connector 13; the chip 12 is mounted on the box body 11, and the chip 12 (see Embodiment 1) Figure 8 (As shown) includes multiple terminal groups, each terminal group including a first terminal group, the first terminal group including at least one first terminal 121; each connector 13 corresponds to one contact pin 101 and one first terminal 121, and in the height direction of the consumable box 1, the connector 13 is at least partially higher than the second end 1012 of the contact pin 101; as Figure 25 As shown, the connector 13 has a first part 1301 and a second part 1302.

[0178] A rectangular coordinate system is established for consumable box 1. The X-axis is the length direction of consumable box 1, the Y-axis is the width direction of consumable box 1, and the Z-axis is the height direction of consumable box 1.

[0179] The first portion 1301 of the connector 13 is electrically connected to the first terminal 121; the second portion 1302 of the connector 13 can contact the second end 1012 of the corresponding stylus 101 in the first stylus group, or it can contact the corresponding terminal on the main control circuit board located behind the stylus assembly in the mounting unit of the image forming apparatus. In this embodiment, the second portion 1302 of the connector 13 contacts the second end 1012 of the corresponding stylus 101 in the first stylus group.

[0180] The connector 13 is made of a conductive material. In some examples, to ensure safety during use, the remaining portion of the connector 13, except for the base end 131 and the arm 133, is coated or provided with an insulating layer.

[0181] The number of connectors 13 is equal to the number of first terminals 121, that is, each connector 13 corresponds to one first terminal 121.

[0182] The connector 13 and the chip 12 can be connected by means of welding, bonding or snap-fitting.

[0183] When the consumable box 1 is installed in the mounting position of the mounting unit, the second part 1302 of the connector 13 contacts the second end 1012 of the corresponding contact pin 101 in the first contact pin group.

[0184] The second portion 1302 of the connector 13 can contact the first surface 1013 of the stylus 101, the second surface 1014 of the stylus 101, or the third surface 1015 of the stylus 101. In this embodiment, the second portion 1302 of the connector 13 contacts the first surface 1013.

[0185] The consumable box provided in this embodiment of the invention is electrically connected to the first terminal 121 via the first part 1301 of the connector 13, and the second part 1302 is in contact with the second end 1012 of the corresponding contact pin 101 in the first contact pin group. This prevents the first terminal 121 from contacting the first end 1011 of the corresponding contact pin 101 in the first contact pin group, thus avoiding the problem of unstable contact or communication interruption between the first terminal 121 and the contact pin 101 due to wear or oxidation failure or contact pin 101 bending or accidental damage. This allows the chip 12 of the consumable box 1 to communicate normally with the mounting unit of the image forming apparatus, thereby ensuring the normal use of the image forming apparatus.

[0186] In one possible implementation, such as Figure 23As shown, the box body 11 includes a tray 117 and an inner liner. The inner liner includes a liquid-containing portion 118 and a connecting component 119. The connecting component 119 is connected to the liquid-containing portion 118, and the liquid-containing portion 118 and the connecting component 119 are installed in the tray 117.

[0187] Among them, such as Figure 26 As shown, the connecting component 119 is provided with a recess 1191, and the chip 12 is installed in the recess 1191.

[0188] The liquid container 118 contains ink.

[0189] In one possible implementation, the consumable box 1 further includes a stabilization component; the stabilization component is configured to limit the displacement of the connector 13 along the height and / or width directions of the consumable box 1.

[0190] The stabilizing component is located outside the recess 1191. The connector 13 can be at least partially covered by the stabilizing component. In other embodiments, the connector 13 can at least partially contact the stabilizing component.

[0191] The stabilization component can limit the displacement of the connector 13 along the height and width directions of the consumable box 1; the stabilization component can also limit the displacement of the connector 13 along the height direction of the consumable box 1; the stabilization component can also limit the displacement of the connector 13 along the width direction of the consumable box 1.

[0192] In one possible implementation, such as Figure 26 and Figure 27 As shown, the stabilization component includes a support member 17, a second cover member 18, and a third deformable member (not shown in the figure). The support member 17 is fixedly connected to the connecting member 119, the second cover member 18 is rotatably connected to the support member 17, and the third deformable member is connected between the support member 17 and the second cover member 18. When the consumable box 1 is not installed in the installation unit, a part of the connecting member 13 is contained in the second cover member 18, and the second part 1302 of the connecting member 13 is exposed outside the second cover member 18.

[0193] Among them, such as Figure 26 As shown, the connecting component 119 is provided with a first slot 1192, the support component 17 is provided with a second slot 171, and the second cover component 18 is provided with a second receiving groove 181. The first slot 1192 is connected to the second slot 171, and the second slot 171 is connected to the second receiving groove 181.

[0194] When the consumable box 1 is not installed in the installation unit, the second receiving groove 181 can limit the displacement of the connector 13 along the height and width directions of the consumable box 1. Moreover, the arm 133 of the connector 13 is at least partially housed in the second receiving groove 181, which can protect the connector 13 from being bent or damaged when the consumable box 1 is violently installed or accidentally dropped from a height. This allows the connector 13 to be stably electrically connected to the corresponding contact pin 101, thereby improving the stability of the electrical connection between the chip 12 and the contact pin assembly.

[0195] like Figure 25 and Figure 26 As shown, the connector 13 includes a base end 131, a connecting portion 132, and an arm portion 133. The connecting portion 132 connects the base end 131 and the arm portion 133. At least a portion of the connecting portion 132 is located in a first slot 1192 and a second slot 171, and at least a portion of the arm portion 133 is located in a second receiving slot 181.

[0196] The first part 1301 is disposed on the base end 131, and the second part 1302 is disposed on the arm 133.

[0197] The third deformation component can be a torsion spring.

[0198] like Figure 27 As shown, during the process of inserting the consumable box 1 into the installation unit, the second cover 18 abuts against the stylus holder 100 and can rotate in a plane perpendicular to the width direction of the consumable box 1, that is, rotate in the +R direction.

[0199] In one possible implementation, such as Figure 24 and Figure 27 As shown, the mounting position of the mounting unit is provided with an alignment part 103, and the box body 11 of the consumable box 1 is provided with an alignment part 116. When the consumable box 1 is installed into the mounting position of the mounting unit, the alignment part 116 engages with the alignment part 103, which can limit the width direction of the consumable box 1.

[0200] The consumable box 1 is installed in the +L direction, which is parallel to the length of the consumable box 1.

[0201] The consumable box 1 has a first state in which it is not installed in the installation unit and a second state in which it is installed in the installation unit.

[0202] The mounting unit is provided with a support frame 104, the stylus holder 100 and the stylus assembly are mounted in the support frame 104, the alignment part 103 is located on the support frame 104, the alignment part 103 is an alignment surface, the support frame 104 is provided with two sets of alignment surfaces; the aligned part 116 is an aligned surface, the aligned surface is the side of the recess 1191 in the width direction of the consumable box 1, the recess 1191 has two sets of aligned surfaces in the width direction of the consumable box 1, and the two sets of aligned surfaces are respectively engaged with the two sets of alignment surfaces.

[0203] like Figure 24 and Figure 27 As shown, during the process of inserting the consumable box 1 into the mounting unit, the second cover 18 abuts against the stylus holder 100 and can rotate in a plane perpendicular to the width direction of the consumable box 1. Specifically, the alignment portion 116 of the consumable box 1 engages with the alignment portion 103 of the mounting position of the mounting unit and enters the mounting position of the mounting unit along the mounting direction of the consumable box 1; then, the consumable box 1 moves to abut the second cover 18 of the stabilizing component against the stylus holder 100; then, the second cover 18 rotates along the +R direction and compresses the third deforming member, and the connector 13 moves along the +L direction; then, when the consumable box 1 is fully inserted into the mounting unit, the arm portion 133 of the connector 13 protrudes from the second receiving groove 181, and the second portion 1302 of the connector 13 abuts against the second end 1012 of the stylus 101 of the first stylus group.

[0204] It should be noted that during the installation of consumable box 1, the consumable box 1 is moved until the second cover 18 of the stabilization component abuts against the stylus holder 100. This serves to prevent misinstallation of the consumable box. If the consumable box is incorrectly installed in a non-designated mounting unit of the image forming apparatus, it will cause installation interference. This serves to remind the user that the consumable box 1 has been incorrectly installed, allowing the user to promptly adjust the consumable box 1 to the correct mounting unit of the image forming apparatus. During the installation of consumable box 1, the second receiving groove 181 of the second cover 18 restricts the displacement of the connector 13 along the width direction of the consumable box 1. This guides the connector 13 to make a correct electrical connection with the corresponding stylus, thereby enabling the chip 12 of the consumable box 1 to communicate normally with the mounting unit of the image forming apparatus, thus ensuring the normal operation of the image forming apparatus.

[0205] During the removal of the consumable box 1 from the installation unit, the third deformation member can reset the second cover 18. Specifically, as the consumable box 1 is removed along the -L direction, the second cover 18 rotates along the -R direction under the action of the third deformation member, which can restore the second cover 18 to the state when the consumable box 1 is in the first state.

[0206] In one possible implementation, such as Figure 26As shown, the connecting component 119 is provided with an auxiliary protrusion 1193. In the height direction of the consumable box, the auxiliary protrusion 1193 is located on the upper outer side of the recess 1191. In the height direction of the consumable box 1, the auxiliary protrusion 1193 is higher than the stabilization component. With this configuration, when the inner liner detaches from the tray 117 and falls from a height, the auxiliary protrusion 1193 can be used to help protect the stabilization component and the connecting component 119 in the height direction of the consumable box 1, preventing damage.

[0207] Example 7

[0208] like Figure 28 As shown, this embodiment of the invention provides a consumable box 1, which is detachably installed in the mounting unit of the image forming apparatus. The mounting unit is provided with a stylus holder 100 (see Embodiment 1). Figure 2 (As shown), a contact pin assembly and a conductive unit 102. The contact pin assembly includes a first contact pin group and a second contact pin group. Both the first and second contact pin groups include at least one contact pin 101 (see Embodiment 1). Figure 3 As shown, each stylus 101 includes a first end 1011 and a second end 1012. In the height direction of the consumable box 1, the second end 1012 is higher than the first end 1011.

[0209] like Figure 29 and Figure 30 As shown, the consumable box 1 includes a box body 11, a chip 12, and at least one connector 13; the chip 12 is mounted on the box body 11, and the chip 12 includes multiple terminal groups, including a first terminal group, and the first terminal group includes at least one first terminal 121; each connector 13 corresponds to a contact pin 101 and a first terminal 121, and in the height direction of the consumable box 1, at least a portion of the connector 13 is higher than the second end 1012 of the contact pin 101; the connector 13 has a first portion 1301 and a second portion 1302.

[0210] A rectangular coordinate system is established for consumable box 1. The X-axis is the length direction of consumable box 1, the Y-axis is the width direction of consumable box 1, and the Z-axis is the height direction of consumable box 1.

[0211] The mounting unit has at least one mounting position, each mounting position is equipped with a consumable box 1, and each mounting position corresponds to a stylus assembly.

[0212] like Figure 31As shown, the first portion 1301 of the connector 13 is electrically connected to the first terminal 121; the second portion 1302 of the connector 13 can contact the second end 1012 of the corresponding stylus 101 in the first stylus group, or it can contact the corresponding terminal on the main control circuit board located behind the stylus assembly in the mounting unit of the image forming apparatus. In this embodiment, the second portion 1302 of the connector 13 contacts the second end 1012 of the corresponding stylus 101 in the first stylus group.

[0213] The connector 13 is made of a conductive material. In some examples, to ensure safety during use, the remaining portion of the connector 13, except for the base end 131 and the arm 133, is coated or provided with an insulating layer.

[0214] The number of connectors 13 is equal to the number of first terminals 121, that is, each connector 13 corresponds to one first terminal 121. In this embodiment, there are multiple connectors 13 and multiple first terminals 121.

[0215] The connector 13 and the chip 12 can be connected by means of welding, bonding or snap-fitting.

[0216] When the consumable box 1 is installed in the mounting position of the mounting unit, the second part 1302 of the connector 13 contacts the second end 1012 of the corresponding contact pin 101 in the first contact pin group.

[0217] The second portion 1302 of the connector 13 can contact the first surface 1013 of the stylus 101, the second surface 1014 of the stylus 101, and the third surface 1015 of the stylus 101. In this embodiment, the second portion 1302 of the connector 13 contacts the second surface 1014.

[0218] The consumable box provided in this embodiment of the invention is electrically connected to the first terminal 121 via the first part 1301 of the connector 13, and the second part 1302 is in contact with the second end 1012 of the corresponding contact pin 101 in the first contact pin group. This can solve the problem of unstable contact or communication interruption between the first terminal 121 and the contact pin 101 due to wear or oxidation failure, or due to bending or accidental damage to the contact pin 101. This allows the chip 12 of the consumable box 1 to communicate normally with the mounting unit of the image forming apparatus, thereby ensuring the normal use of the image forming apparatus.

[0219] In one possible implementation, such as Figure 30As shown, the chip also includes a substrate 120 and a storage element 123. Multiple terminal groups are electrically connected to the storage element 123. A first terminal 121 is located on the side of the substrate 120 facing the housing 11. The multiple terminal groups include a second terminal group, and the second terminal group includes at least one second terminal 122. The second terminal 122 is electrically connected to the conductive unit 102.

[0220] Among them, the storage element 123 stores information about the chip 12, such as information about the manufacturer, ink volume, consumable box type, and ink color.

[0221] The first terminal group and the second terminal group at least partially overlap in the width direction of the consumable box 1.

[0222] In this embodiment, there are 4 connectors 13, 4 first terminals 121, and 1 second terminal 122.

[0223] The first terminal 121 can be any terminal on the chip 12. The second terminal 122 is one of the remaining terminals on the chip 12 after removing the first terminal 121.

[0224] The first terminal 121 and the second terminal 122 are both located on the side of the substrate 120 facing the housing 11. Specifically, the substrate 120 has an inner surface 1201 facing the housing 11 and an outer surface 1202 facing away from the housing 11. The first terminal 121 and the second terminal 122 are both located on the inner surface 1201.

[0225] In some examples, when chip 12 includes a ground terminal, a power terminal, a reset terminal, a clock terminal, and a data terminal, the first terminal 121 can be two or more of the following: ground terminal, power terminal, reset terminal, clock terminal, and data terminal. The second terminal group includes the remaining terminals other than the first terminal in the first terminal group. It should be noted that the ground terminal is used to receive a ground potential; the power terminal is used to receive a power potential different from the ground potential (e.g., 3.6V or 3.3V), providing power for the operation of the storage element 123; the reset terminal is used to reset the data inside the storage element 123; the clock terminal is used to receive a clock signal; and the data terminal is used to transmit or receive data signals and also to detect short circuits between the data terminal and at least one of the clock terminal, reset terminal, and power terminal.

[0226] In other examples, when chip 12 includes a ground terminal, a power terminal, a reset terminal, a clock terminal, a data terminal, a high-voltage terminal, and a detection terminal, the first terminal 121 can be two or more of the following: ground terminal, power terminal, reset terminal, clock terminal, data terminal, high-voltage terminal, and detection terminal. The second terminal group includes the remaining terminals excluding the first terminal in the first terminal group. It should be noted that the high-voltage terminal is used to detect whether the consumable cartridge is correctly inserted into the image forming apparatus. The detection terminal is used to detect whether a short circuit occurs between the high-voltage terminal of the chip and at least one of the remaining terminals (i.e., the low-voltage terminals).

[0227] The conductive unit 102 is disposed outside the mounting unit and is used to transmit a grounding signal; or, the conductive unit 102 can also be used to transmit a power signal; the conductive unit 102 can also be a main control circuit board located behind the stylus assembly in the mounting unit of the image forming apparatus, the main control circuit board having terminals electrically connected to the stylus assembly.

[0228] In one possible implementation, the box 11 is provided with a placement portion 111 and a receiving portion 112 (see Embodiment 1). Figure 6 As shown), Figure 31 As shown, the first part 1301 of the connector 13 includes at least a base end 131 and a connecting part 132, and the second part 1302 includes at least an arm 133. The base end 131 is connected to the arm 133. The base end 131 is at least partially located in the placement part 111, and the arm 133 is partially located in the placement part 111. In the length direction of the consumable box 1, the arm 133 protrudes at least partially from the box body 11. The base end 131 is electrically connected to the first terminal 121, and the arm 133 contacts the second end 1012 of the corresponding contact pin 101 in the first contact pin group.

[0229] Both the placement section 111 and the receiving section 112 can be recessed into the box body 11.

[0230] The arm portion 133 and the base portion 131 are arranged intersectingly.

[0231] In one possible implementation, the consumable box 1 further includes a stabilization component; the connector 13 is at least partially covered by the stabilization component. This arrangement allows the stabilization component to protect the connector 13, preventing it from being severely bent or damaged when the consumable box 1 is violently installed or accidentally dropped from a height. This ensures a stable electrical connection between the connector 13 and the corresponding contact pin 101, thereby improving the stability of the electrical connection between the chip 12 and the contact pin assembly.

[0232] Among them, such as Figure 29As shown, the stabilization component includes a first cover 15 and a first deformable member 16. The first deformable member 16 is connected between the box body 11 and the first cover 15. When the consumable box 1 is not installed in the installation unit, a part of the connector 13 is contained in the first cover 15, and the second part 1302 of the connector 13 is exposed outside the first cover 15.

[0233] A sliding groove 1121 is provided on the side wall of the receiving part 112 of the box body 11. The sliding groove 1121 extends along the height direction of the consumable box 1, such as... Figure 32 As shown, the first cover 15 has a sliding protrusion 151, which is slidably disposed in the sliding groove 1121. The first cover 15 can slide in the height direction of the consumable box 1 under the action of external force.

[0234] The first deformable element 16 can be a spring, and it is located in the receiving part 112. A first positioning protrusion (not shown in the figure) is provided on the top wall of the receiving part 112, and a second positioning protrusion 152 is provided on the first cover 15. The second positioning protrusion 152 is located on the rear side of the first cover 15 in the length direction of the consumable box 1. A sliding protrusion 151 is fixed on the second positioning protrusion 152, and the first deformable element 16 is connected to the first positioning protrusion and the second positioning protrusion 152 respectively.

[0235] like Figure 29 and Figure 32 As shown, the first cover 15 has a first receiving groove 153 that extends through the first cover 15 along the length of the consumable box 1. When the consumable box 1 is not installed in the installation unit, the arms 133 of the four connectors 13 are at least partially received in the first receiving groove 153, and the second portion 1302 of the arms 133 of the four connectors 13 is exposed from the first receiving groove 153.

[0236] In one possible implementation, such as Figure 29 As shown, the consumable box 1 also includes a handle 110, which is disposed on the box body 11. The handle 110 is located on the front side of the box body 11 and has an extension 140.

[0237] Among them, such as Figure 33 As shown, the consumable box 1 also includes a coupling member 19, one end of which is electrically connected to the second terminal 122, and the other end of which is electrically connected to the conductive unit 102.

[0238] The coupling element 19 is made of a conductive material. In this embodiment, the coupling element 19 is made of a metallic material.

[0239] The coupling 19 includes a first connecting segment 191, a second connecting segment 192 and a third connecting segment 193. The second connecting segment 192 connects the first connecting segment 191 and the third connecting segment 193. The first connecting segment 191 is disposed on the housing 11, and the second connecting segment 192 and the third connecting segment 193 are disposed on the handle 110.

[0240] The first connecting segment 191 can be embedded inside the box 11 or exposed outside the box 11; no specific settings are provided here.

[0241] The second connecting section 192 is embedded within the extension 140 of the handle 110. Specifically, as Figure 29 As shown, an embedding groove 141 is provided on the extension 140, and the second connecting section 192 is embedded in the embedding groove 141.

[0242] The third connecting section 193 is exposed outside the extension 140 and is electrically connected to the conductive unit 102.

[0243] In one possible implementation, the mounting position of the mounting unit is provided with an alignment portion 103 (see Embodiment 1). Figure 2 As shown, the consumable box 1 has an alignment part 116 on its box body 11. When the consumable box 1 is installed in the mounting position of the mounting unit, the alignment part 116 engages with the alignment part 103, which can limit the width direction of the consumable box 1.

[0244] The consumable box 1 is installed in the +H direction (see Example 1). Figure 1 As shown), the +H direction is parallel to the height direction of consumable box 1.

[0245] The alignment part 116 is the alignment surface, and the box body 11 has two alignment surfaces in the width direction of the consumable box 1; the alignment part 103 is located on the housing of the mounting unit, and the alignment part 103 is an alignment protrusion. Two alignment protrusions are provided on the mounting position of the mounting unit, and the two alignment surfaces respectively contact the two alignment protrusions.

[0246] During the process of inserting the consumable box 1 into the mounting unit, the first cover 15 abuts against the stylus holder 100 and can move in the height direction of the consumable box 1. Specifically, the alignment portion 116 of the consumable box 1 engages with the alignment portion 103 of the mounting position of the mounting unit and enters the mounting position of the mounting unit along the mounting direction of the consumable box 1; then, the consumable box moves to abut against the stylus holder 100 with the first cover 15 of the stabilizing component; then, the first cover 15 moves along the -H direction and compresses the first deforming member 16, and the connector 13 moves along the +H direction; when the consumable box 1 is fully inserted into the mounting unit, the second part 1302 of the connector 13 abuts against the second end 1012 of the stylus 101 of the first stylus group, and the third connecting section 193 of the coupling member 19 is electrically connected to the conductive unit 102.

[0247] During the removal of the consumable box 1 from the installation unit, the first deforming element 16 can reset the first cover 15. Specifically, as the consumable box 1 is removed along the -H direction, the first cover 15 moves along the +H direction under the action of the first deforming element 16, which can restore the first cover 15 and the first deforming element 16 to their state when the consumable box 1 is in the first state.

[0248] Example 8

[0249] like Figure 34 and Figure 35 As shown, this embodiment of the invention provides a consumable cartridge assembly, which is detachably installed in the mounting unit of an image forming apparatus. The mounting unit is provided with a stylus assembly, which includes a stylus holder 100, a first stylus group, and a second stylus group. Both the first stylus group and the second stylus group include at least one stylus 101 (see Embodiment 1). Figure 3 As shown, each stylus 101 includes a first end 1011 and a second end 1012, with the second end 1012 being higher than the first end 1011 in the height direction of the consumable box assembly.

[0250] like Figure 36 As shown, the consumable kit includes a body and at least one connector 13; the body includes multiple housings 11 and multiple chips 12, each chip 12 is mounted on a housing 11, and each chip 12 includes multiple terminal groups, the multiple terminal groups including a first terminal group, the first terminal group including at least one first terminal 121; each connector 13 corresponds to a contact pin 101 and multiple first terminals 121, and in the height direction of the consumable kit, the connector 13 is at least partially higher than the second end 1012 of the contact pin 101; the connector 13 has multiple first portions 1301 and a second portion 1302, the multiple first portions 1301 are respectively disposed on each housing 11 of the body, and the second portion 1302 is disposed on one housing 11 of the body.

[0251] The first part 1301 is used to electrically connect to a first terminal 121 of each chip 12, and the second part 1302 is used to contact the second end 1012 of the corresponding contact pin 101 in the first contact pin group.

[0252] A Cartesian coordinate system is established for the consumable box group. The X-axis represents the length of the consumable box group, the Y-axis represents the width of the consumable box group, and the Z-axis represents the height of the consumable box group.

[0253] The mounting unit has multiple mounting positions, each mounting position has a housing 11, and each mounting position corresponds to a contact pin assembly and a chip 12.

[0254] The structure of the stylus 101 is the same as that of the stylus 101 in Embodiment 1. For details, please refer to the stylus 101 in Embodiment 1.

[0255] In this embodiment, the main body of the consumable box assembly includes two or more box bodies 11 and two or more chips 12, with each chip 12 corresponding to one box body 11.

[0256] The connector 13 is made of a conductive material. In some examples, to ensure safety during use, the remaining portion of the connector 13, except for the base end 131 and the arm 133, is coated or provided with an insulating layer.

[0257] The number of connectors 13 is equal to the number of first terminals 121 of each chip 12; that is, each connector 13 corresponds to one first terminal 121 of each chip 12. In this embodiment, the number of connectors 13 is one, and the number of first terminals 121 of each chip 12 is also one.

[0258] The connector 13 and the chip 12 can be connected by means of welding, bonding or snap-fitting.

[0259] When the consumable box assembly is installed in the mounting position of the mounting unit, the second part 1302 of the connector 13 contacts the second end 1012 of the corresponding contact pin 101 in the first contact pin assembly.

[0260] The second part 1302 of the connector 13 can contact the first surface 1013 of the stylus 101, the second surface 1014 of the stylus 101, and the third surface 1015 of the stylus 101.

[0261] The consumable box assembly provided in this embodiment of the invention is electrically connected to the first terminal 121 of each chip 12 via the first part 1301 of the connector 13, and the second part 1302 contacts the second end 1012 of the corresponding contact pin 101 in the first contact pin group. This prevents the first terminal 121 from contacting the first end 1011 of the corresponding contact pin 101 in the first contact pin group, thus avoiding the problem of unstable contact or communication interruption between the first terminal 121 and the contact pin 101 due to wear or oxidation failure, or due to bending or accidental damage to the contact pin 101. This allows the chip 12 of the consumable box 1 to communicate normally with the mounting unit of the image forming apparatus, thereby ensuring the normal use of the image forming apparatus.

[0262] In this embodiment, the structures of the housing 11 and the chip 12 are the same as those of the housing 11 and the chip 12 in Embodiment 1.

[0263] In one possible implementation, such as Figure 37 As shown, the connector 13 includes multiple base ends 131, multiple connecting parts 132 and an arm part 133. Each box body 11 corresponds to a base end 131 and a connecting part 132. The multiple connecting parts 132 are connected sequentially in the width direction of the consumable box group. Each base end 131 is connected to a connecting part 132, and the arm part 133 is connected to one of the multiple connecting parts 132.

[0264] In this embodiment, the structure of the base end portion 131 of the connector 13 is the same as that of the base end portion 131 in this embodiment; the structure of the connecting portion 132 of the connector 13 in this embodiment is the same as that of the connecting portion 132 in this embodiment; and the installation method of the connecting portion 132 of the connector 13 in this embodiment is the same as that of the connecting portion 132 in this embodiment.

[0265] The structure of the arm 133 of the connector 13 in this embodiment is the same as that of the arm 133 in this embodiment 4; the installation method of the arm 133 of the connector 13 in this embodiment is the same as that of the arm 133 in this embodiment 4.

[0266] In one possible implementation, the consumable box 1 further includes a stabilization component. The stabilization component in this embodiment has the same structure as that in embodiment three; the installation method of the stabilization component in this embodiment is the same as that of the stabilization component in embodiment four.

[0267] In this consumable box assembly, one of the multiple boxes 11 is equipped with an arm 133 and a stabilization component, while the other boxes 11 do not have an arm 133 and a stabilization component.

[0268] In this embodiment, the movement process of the stabilization component during the installation of the consumable box assembly can refer to the movement process in Embodiment 3, and will not be described in detail here.

[0269] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention 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; and these 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 the present invention.

Claims

1. A consumable box, detachably mounted in a mounting unit of an image forming apparatus, the mounting unit comprising a stylus assembly and a conductive unit, the stylus assembly including a stylus holder, a first stylus group and a second stylus group, both the first stylus group and the second stylus group including at least one stylus, each stylus including a first end and a second end, wherein, in the height direction of the consumable box, the second end is higher than the first end, characterized in that... The consumable box includes a box body, a chip, and at least one connector; The chip is mounted on the housing, and the chip includes multiple terminal groups, the multiple terminal groups including a first terminal group, the first terminal group including at least one first terminal; In the height direction of the consumable box, the connector is at least partially higher than the second end of the stylus; The connector has a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being electrically connected to the first terminal, and the second portion contacting the second end of a corresponding contact pin in the first contact pin group; it also includes a stabilization component; the connector is at least partially in contact with the stabilization component; or, the connector is at least partially covered by the stabilization component; the stabilization component is configured to limit the displacement of the connector along the height and / or width direction of the consumable box; During the process of the consumable box being installed into the installation unit, the connector abuts against the second end of the corresponding contact pin and receives the abutting force, so that the connector can be displaced in a plane perpendicular to the width direction of the consumable box under the action of the abutting force.

2. The consumable box according to claim 1, characterized in that, The consumable box has a first state in which it is not installed in the installation unit and a second state in which it is installed in the installation unit; The cartridge has an ink outlet. When the consumable cartridge is in the second state, the distance between the second part of the connector and the ink outlet in the height direction of the consumable cartridge is a first distance. When the consumable cartridge is in the first state, the distance between the second part of the connector and the ink outlet in the height direction of the consumable cartridge is a second distance. The first distance is greater than the second distance.

3. The consumable box according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the consumable box is in the second state, at least a portion of the second part of the connector intersects the top surface of the second end of the stylus in the height direction of the consumable box.

4. The consumable box according to claim 2, characterized in that, The box body has a space for accommodating the connector. The first part includes at least a base end, and the second part includes at least an arm. The base end and the arm are connected by a connecting part of the connector. In the length direction of the consumable box, the arm at least partially protrudes from the box body. The base end is electrically connected to the first terminal, and the arm portion is in contact with the second end of the corresponding stylus in the first stylus group.

5. The consumable box according to claim 4, characterized in that, In the height direction of the consumable box, at least a portion of the base end is angled relative to the connecting portion; or, At least a portion of the base end is arranged in a helical structure relative to the connecting portion; or... At least a portion of the connecting portion is arranged in a circuitous manner relative to the arm portion.

6. The consumable box according to claim 4, characterized in that, The arm has a fulcrum, and the arm moves about the fulcrum as the center under the action of external force. or, The space has a second deformable member, and the contact portion between the connecting portion and the arm portion and the second deformable member forms a fulcrum portion. Under the action of external force, the arm portion and the connecting portion are displaced around the fulcrum portion.

7. The consumable box according to claim 1, characterized in that, The stabilization component includes a first cover and a first deformation component, wherein the first deformation component is connected between the box body and the first cover. During the process of the consumable box being inserted into the mounting unit, the first cover abuts against the stylus holder and is movable in the height direction of the consumable box. During the process of the consumable box being removed from the mounting unit, the first deformable member can reset the first cover.

8. The consumable box according to claim 1, characterized in that, The stabilization component includes a support member, a second cover member, and a third deformation member. The support member is fixedly connected to the connecting component, and the second cover member is rotatably connected to the support member. During the process of the consumable box being installed into the mounting unit, the second cover abuts against the stylus holder and can rotate in a plane perpendicular to the width direction of the consumable box. During the process of the consumable box being removed from the mounting unit, the third deforming member can reset the second cover.

9. The consumable box according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The chip also includes a substrate and a storage element, and a plurality of terminal groups are electrically connected to the storage element. The plurality of terminal groups include a second terminal group, and the second terminal group includes at least one second terminal. The second terminal contacts the first end of the corresponding pin in the second pin group; or, the second terminal is electrically connected to the conductive unit, and the projections of the first terminal group and the second terminal group in one of the length direction, width direction, and height direction of the consumable box at least partially overlap.

10. A consumable cartridge assembly, detachably mounted in a mounting unit of an image forming apparatus, the mounting unit comprising a stylus assembly, the stylus assembly including a stylus holder, a first stylus group, and a second stylus group, both the first and second stylus groups including at least one stylus, each stylus including a first end and a second end, wherein, in the height direction of the consumable cartridge assembly, the second end is higher than the first end, characterized in that... The consumable kit assembly includes a main body and at least one connector; The main body includes multiple boxes, and the connector includes multiple first parts and one second part. The multiple first parts are respectively disposed on each box of the main body, and the second part is disposed on one box of the main body. Each of the housings is provided with a chip, each chip includes multiple terminal groups, the multiple terminal groups include a first terminal group, and the first terminal group includes at least one first terminal; The first part of the connector is used for electrical connection to a first terminal of each chip, and the second part is used for contact with the second end of the corresponding contact pin in the first contact pin group. It also includes a stabilization component; the connector is at least partially in contact with the stabilization component; or, the connector is at least partially covered by the stabilization component; the stabilization component is configured to limit the displacement of the connector along the height and / or width directions of the consumable box; During the process of the consumable box being installed into the installation unit, the connector abuts against the second end of the corresponding contact pin and receives the abutting force, so that the connector can be displaced in a plane perpendicular to the width direction of the consumable box under the action of the abutting force.

Images