Housing for a printer cartridge and manufacturing method

Abstract

A housing for a cartridge of a printer is disclosed. The housing includes a plurality of walls defining a bladder volume configured to receive a bladder of the cartridge and a neck interface of a front wall of the plurality of walls. The neck interface defines a neck aperture configured to receive a neck of the bladder. The housing is a single continuous piece of material.

Description

[0001] Cross - reference to related patent applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 423,352, filed on November 7, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to printers. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a cartridge containing fluids (such as ink and / or solvent) for use in a printer.

[0004] Background

[0005] Printers use various fluids throughout their operation, such as ink for marking desired patterns and solvents to be mixed with the ink. These fluids are contained in cartridges that facilitate the storage and transportation of the fluids. The cartridge includes an interface that facilitates the transfer of the fluid to the printer. When the fluid within the cartridge is depleted, the cartridge can be removed from the printer and replaced with another full cartridge.

[0006] Overview

[0007] One example embodiment relates to a housing for a cartridge for a printer. The housing includes: a plurality of walls defining a bladder volume and a neck interface of a front wall among the plurality of walls, the bladder volume being configured to receive a bladder of the cartridge. The neck interface defines a neck passage configured to receive a neck of the bladder. The housing is a single continuous piece of material.

[0008] Another example embodiment relates to a method of manufacturing a cartridge for a printer. The cartridge has a housing defining a bladder volume and includes a neck hole positioned on a first side of the housing. The cartridge also has a bladder that includes a body configured to hold a fluid and has a neck coupled to the body. The method includes: positioning the bladder such that the neck extends through the neck hole and the body extends within the bladder volume, and moving at least one member of the housing near the neck hole away from the neck during the positioning. The housing can be a single continuous piece of material. The method can also include offsetting at least a portion of a lower part of the first side of the housing relative to at least a portion of the remainder of the first side of the housing. The offset can define a release volume such that, in use, accumulated fluid (e.g., dripping ink) or debris can be trapped in a volume defined between the cartridge of the printer and a cartridge receiver and does not adversely affect the insertion of a new cartridge into the cartridge receiver.

[0009] Yet another embodiment relates to a one - piece housing for a cartridge for a printer. The one - piece housing includes a plurality of walls defining a bladder volume and a neck interface of a front wall among the plurality of walls, the bladder volume being configured to receive a bladder of the cartridge. The neck interface defines a neck hole configured to receive a neck of the bladder.

[0010] Numerous specific details are provided to convey a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. In one or more embodiments and / or implementations, the described features of the subject matter of the present disclosure may be combined in any suitable manner. In this regard, one or more features of one aspect of the present invention may be combined with one or more features of different aspects of the present invention. Additionally, in certain embodiments and / or implementations, additional features may be recognized that may not be present in all embodiments or implementations. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012] The present disclosure can be more fully understood from the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like elements, wherein:

[0013] Figure 1 is a block diagram of a printer according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0014] Figure 2 is according to an exemplary embodiment of Figure 1 a perspective view of a cartridge of a printer.

[0015] Figure 3 is Figure 2 another perspective view of the cartridge.

[0016] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of a cartridge including a housing, a bladder, and a memory card Figure 2 of.

[0017] Figure 5 is Figure 4 an exploded perspective view of the bladder.

[0018] Figure 6 is Figure 1 a right cross-sectional view of the interaction between the pins of a printer and Figure 4 the bladder of.

[0019] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a cartridge having Figure 4 a bladder Figure 2 of.

[0020] Figure 8 and Figure 9 are perspective views of a cartridge having Figure 4 a housing and alternative bladders of various sizes according to an exemplary embodiment Figure 2 of.

[0021] Figure 10 is Figure 4 a perspective view of the memory card.

[0022] Figure 11 is a perspective view of a cartridge filled with fluid according to an exemplary embodiment Figure 2 of.

[0023] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a cartridge that engages with a cartridge receiver of a printer according to an exemplary embodiment Figure 1 of Figure 2 the printer

[0024] Figure 13 is a perspective view of a printer having Figure 2 a cartridge and Figure 12 a cartridge receiver Figure 1 of the printer

[0025] Figure 14 is a front cross-sectional view showing the engagement between a cartridge Figure 2 of Figure 12 the printer according to an exemplary embodiment and a cartridge receiver

[0026] Figure 15A is a perspective view of another cartridge according to an exemplary embodiment

[0027] Figure 15B is Figure 15A a perspective view of a cartridge

[0028] Figure 16 is a top cross-sectional view showing the engagement between a cartridge Figure 2 of Figure 12 the printer and a cartridge receiver

[0029] Figure 17 is a right cross-sectional view showing the engagement between a cartridge Figure 15A of Figure 12 the printer and a cartridge receiver

[0030] Figure 18 is Figure 2 a detailed perspective view of a cartridge

[0031] Figure 19 is Figure 2 a right cross-sectional view of a cartridge

[0032] Figure 20A is Figure 2 a perspective view of a cartridge

[0033] Figure 20B is Figure 2 a top perspective cross-sectional view of a cartridge

[0034] Figure 20C is Figure 2 a right cross-sectional view of a cartridge

[0035] Figure 21 is a perspective view of another cartridge according to an exemplary embodiment

[0036] Figure 22A is Figure 21Perspective view of the cartridge.

[0037] Figure 22B is a memory card and bladder including Figure 4 of the cartridge Figure 21 Top perspective sectional view of the cartridge.

[0038] Figure 22C is Figure 21 Right sectional view of the cartridge.

[0039] Figure 23 is a perspective view of the packaging of the cartridge for Figure 2 in an open configuration according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0040] Figure 24 is a perspective view of the packaging of Figure 23 in a closed configuration according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0041] Figures 25 - 29 is a perspective view of the neck interface for the cartridge according to various additional exemplary embodiments.

[0042] Figures 30 - 36 is a perspective view of the memory card interface for the cartridge according to various additional exemplary embodiments.

[0043] Figures 37 - 47 is according to various additional exemplary embodiments Figure 1 Perspective view of the cartridge of the printer.

[0044] Detailed description

[0045] Before turning to the drawings that illustrate certain exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the details or methods set forth in the specification or shown in the drawings. It should also be understood that the terms used herein are for descriptive purposes only and should not be considered limiting.

[0046] System overview

[0047] Now refer to Figure 1, shows a printer or printer system 10 according to an exemplary embodiment. In some embodiments, printer 10 is an industrial continuous inkjet printer. For example, printer 10 may be disposed in a factory (e.g., on a manufacturing floor) and / or other desired locations. Printer 10 may deposit a fluid (such as ink) in a desired pattern on a substrate 12 (e.g., plastic, metal, paper, etc.). The pattern produced by printer 10 may represent information related to a product including substrate 12, such as the expiration date of the product, the serial number of the product, and / or information related to the manufacture of the product (e.g., the production date of the product, the lot number of the product, the production location of the product, etc.). In some embodiments, printer 10 remains stationary and marks products that move past the printer at regular intervals (e.g., on a conveyor belt). Printer 10 may be used to mark various types of products, such as containers (e.g., bottles, cans, bags, etc. for holding food, beverages, industrial liquids, etc.), cables, pipes, foils, or other products. In other embodiments, printer 10 is a different type of printer.

[0048] The printer includes a pair of cartridges, containers, vessels, cans, or capsules, shown as ink cartridge 20 and solvent cartridge 30. Ink cartridge 20 contains a volume of marking fluid (e.g., printer ink), shown as ink 22. Ink cartridge 20 includes a memory device or storage device (e.g., a printed circuit board), shown as memory 24. Solvent cartridge 30 contains a volume of replenishing fluid, shown as solvent 32. Solvent 32 may be mixed with ink 22 (e.g., to control the properties of ink 22, such as viscosity). By way of example, ink 22 may initially include a volume of solvent that evaporates over time. Solvent 32 may be added to ink 22 to restore the lost solvent. Additionally or alternatively, solvent 32 may be used to clean ink 22 from components of printer 10 (e.g., print head 50). Solvent cartridge 30 includes a memory device or storage device (e.g., a printed circuit board), shown as memory 34.

[0049] Memory 24 and memory 34 may be used to store and transmit various information about ink cartridge 20 and solvent cartridge 30, respectively. As an example, memory 24 may store information such as the type of ink within ink cartridge 20, the volume of ink within ink cartridge 20, and / or parameters that describe the characteristics of ink 22 (e.g., viscosity, age, desired amount of solvent within a given volume of ink 22, etc.). As an example, memory 34 may store information such as the type of solvent within solvent cartridge 30, the volume of solvent within solvent cartridge 30, and / or parameters that describe the characteristics of solvent 32. In some embodiments, memory 24 and / or memory 34 are rewritable. As an example, in response to receiving a signal (e.g., from controller 70) indicating the amount of ink 22 and / or solvent 32 that has been consumed, memory 24 and / or memory 34 may update the stored value representing the volume of fluid remaining in the respective cartridge.

[0050] Printer 10 further includes a fluid control circuit or a hydraulic circuit, shown as the flow control assembly 40. The flow control assembly 40 is fluidly coupled to the ink cartridge 20 and the solvent cartridge 30. The flow control assembly 40 is configured to manage (e.g., control, direct, etc.) the flow of fluid (e.g., ink 22 and / or solvent 32) through the printer 10. The flow control assembly 40 may control the flow direction, flow velocity, and / or mixing of the fluid. As Figure 1 shown, the fluid flow path through the printer 10 is generally represented by solid lines.

[0051] The flow control assembly 40 includes one or more pumps 42 that drive the fluid flow through the printer 10. As an example, the first pump 42 may draw ink 22 from the ink cartridge 20, and the second pump 42 may draw solvent 32 from the solvent cartridge 30. One or more valves (e.g., direction control valves, solenoid valves, etc.), shown as valves 44, may control the flow direction, flow velocity, and / or mixing of the fluid. The flow control assembly 40 may include one or more filters 46 to remove contaminants from the fluid.

[0052] Still referring to Figure 1 , the printer 10 may include a print head 50 that distributes the ink 22 onto the substrate 12 in a desired pattern. The ink 22 may be pressurized by the pump 42 and supplied to a flow restrictor (shown as the nozzle 52) that directs the flow of the ink 22 towards the substrate 12. The print head 50 includes an oscillator or a vibrator (e.g., a piezoelectric oscillator), shown as the oscillator 54, that separates the ink 22 into smaller volumes or droplets. The droplets pass through one or more charging elements, shown as the electrodes 56. According to the desired pattern provided by the printer 10, the electrodes 56 may electrostatically charge one or more of the droplets. The electrodes 56 allow a first subset (e.g., one or more) of the droplets having a first charge level to move towards the substrate 12 and create the desired pattern. A second subset of the droplets having a second charge level is deflected by the electrodes 56 before reaching the substrate 12 and is captured by a slot of an ink returnee 58. The ink returnee 58 returns the captured portion of the ink 22 to the flow control assembly 40 for subsequent use by the printer 10. The flow control assembly 40 may supply additional solvent 32 to the captured portion of the ink 22 to replenish any solvent lost (e.g., evaporated) when the ink 22 is exposed to air.

[0053] Printer 10 may include one or more controllers, shown as controller 70, which controls the operation of printer 10. Controller 70 includes one or more processors, shown as processor 72 coupled to one or more memory devices (shown as memory 74). Memory 74 may contain instructions that, when executed by processor 72, cause controller 70 to perform the various processes described herein. Controller 70 is operably coupled to ink cartridge 20, solvent cartridge 30, flow control assembly 40, and printhead 50. Controller 70 is configured to send signals (e.g., electrical energy, information, data, etc.) to and / or receive signals from ink cartridge 20, solvent cartridge 30, flow control assembly 40, and printhead 50. As Figure 1 shown, the signals are represented as dashed lines. Controller 70 may control the operation of memory 24, memory 34, pump 42, valve 44, oscillator 54, and / or electrode 56 to facilitate the printing process.

[0054] As Figure 1 shown, printer 10 includes an input / output device operably coupled to controller 70, shown as user interface 76. User interface 76 may facilitate providing information from controller 70 to a user and / or providing information (e.g., commands) from the user to controller 70. User interface 76 may include input devices (e.g., touchscreens, keyboards, mice, buttons, switches, microphones, etc.) and / or output devices (e.g., displays, speakers, lights, haptic feedback devices, etc.). A user may utilize user interface 76 to view and / or edit one or more settings that control the operation of printer 10. As an example, user interface 76 may facilitate a user controlling the content and arrangement of a desired pattern produced by printer 10.

[0055] Printer 10 also includes an enclosure, housing, or chassis, shown as enclosure 80. Enclosure 80 supports the other components of printer 10. In some embodiments, one or more of the other components of printer 10 are at least partially enclosed within enclosure 80.

[0056] Cartridge

[0057] In conjunction Figure 1 with Figures 2 - 4 reference Figure 15A to Figure 15B , a cartridge, container, vessel, can, or capsule is shown as cartridge 100. Figures 2 - 4 and Figures 7 - 9 depict variations of cartridge 100 relative to the cartridges in Figures 18 - 23 . Figure 15A and Figure 15B The cartridge 100 of Figures 2 - 4 and Figures 7 - 9 is substantially similar in structure and function to the cartridges in Figures 18 - 23 ​​The cartridge 100 in [description] includes, in addition, a relatively larger / more prominent release area for the captured fluids, particles, and / or combinations thereof described herein. This is shown by Figure 2 the surface 212a of the housing 102 of Figure 15A and Figure 15B the surface 212b of the housing 102 of Figure 2 The cartridge of Figure 15A and Figure 15B is used with a printer different from the cartridge of Figure 2 and Figure 15A and Figure 15B In another embodiment, the cartridge of Figure 2 is used with the same type of printer as the cartridge of Figure 15A and Figure 15B Therefore, unless otherwise described herein, the description of the cartridge of Figure 2 contained below and herein also applies to the description of Figure 15A and Figure 15B

[0058] The cartridge 100 can represent an ink cartridge 20, a solvent cartridge 30, and / or another cartridge for a different printer or another application. For example, the ink cartridge 20 and the solvent cartridge 30 can be structurally similar but filled with different fluids. Therefore, any description of the cartridge 100 can apply to the ink cartridge 20 and / or the solvent cartridge 30, unless otherwise specified.

[0059] In some embodiments, the cartridge 100 is configured to be replaced and discarded when emptied. Thus, the cartridge 100 can be removably coupled to the housing 80 for easy replacement. One or more components of the cartridge 100 can be recyclable. In other embodiments, the cartridge 100 is refillable.

[0060] The cartridge 100 includes an outer housing, a housing, a wrapper, or a protective cover, shown as the housing 102. The housing 102 supports at least one other component of the cartridge 100. The housing 102 can provide an interface for removably coupling the cartridge 100 to the housing 80 of the printer 10 (e.g., to facilitate removal of the cartridge 100 when emptied). In some embodiments, the housing 102 is formed of a relatively hard or rigid material (e.g., hard plastic). For example, the housing 102 can be injection molded from plastic.

[0061] The cartridge 100 further includes a lining, a container, a vessel, or a reservoir, shown as the bladder 104. The bladder 104 is configured to hold a volume of fluid (e.g., ink 22, solvent 32, etc.). The bladder 104 is coupled to the housing 102. The bladder 104 can be at least partially surrounded by the housing 102. In some embodiments, the bladder 104 is formed of a relatively flexible material (e.g., elastomer). As an example, the bladder 104 can be relatively more flexible than the housing 102. By forming the bladder 104 of a flexible material, the bladder can expand to facilitate filling the bladder 104 with fluid or contract to facilitate discharging the fluid from the bladder 104.

[0062] Cartridge 100 also includes a memory device (e.g., a printed circuit board), shown as memory card 106. Memory card 106 is configured to store various information about cartridge 100 and communicate with controller 70. As an example, memory card 106 can act as memory 24 and / or memory 34.

[0063] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 , a bladder 104 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. Bladder 104 includes a series of walls 110 that form a generally rectangular body 112. In other embodiments, different shapes (e.g., spherical, conical, etc.) can be used. Walls 110 define a fluid storage volume that houses the fluid of bladder 104. Extending longitudinally forward from body 112 is a protrusion, shown as neck 114. An exit channel or fluid transfer channel or passageway, shown as channel 116, extends generally longitudinally through neck 114 and the foremost wall 110 of body 112. Channel 116 can be axially or substantially axially aligned with neck 114. Channel 116 is fluidly coupled to the fluid storage volume of body 112, allowing fluid to enter and leave body 112 volume through channel 116.

[0064] Neck 114 includes an annular protrusion or projection that extends radially outward, shown as shoulder 120. Shoulder 120 can be integrally formed with the remainder of neck 114 and body 112 as a single continuous piece. Shoulder 120 has a front surface that faces away from body 112, shown as tapered surface 122. Tapered surface 122 can be frustoconical and oriented such that the diameter of tapered surface 122 increases as tapered surface 122 extends toward body 112. Shoulder 120 has a rear surface that faces body 112, shown as engagement surface 124. Engagement surface 124 extends substantially perpendicular to channel 116. Shoulder 120 includes an outer circumference or annular surface, shown as outer surface 126. Outer surface 126 is substantially cylindrical and extends between tapered surface 122 and engagement surface 124.

[0065] Bladder 104 also includes a sealing member, shown as seal 130, which is fixedly coupled to the distal end of neck 114 (i.e., the end of neck 114 that is remote from body 112). Seal 130 extends across channel 116, fluidly separating the fluid storage volume of body 112 from the flow control assembly 40 of printer 10 and sealing or substantially sealing the fluid within bladder 104. Printer 10 includes a piercing member, shown as needle 132, which is positioned to engage seal 130 when cartridge 100 is placed within the housing 80 of printer 10. Upon engagement, needle 132 pierces seal 130, allowing fluid to flow out of bladder 104 and into flow control assembly 40.

[0066] ReferenceFigures 7 - 9 , the cartridge 100 can utilize bladders 104 of various different sizes, each bladder 104 being configured to hold various different volumes of liquid. In Figure 7 embodiments, the bladder 104 is sized to hold 750 ml of fluid. In Figure 8 embodiments, the bladder 104 is sized to hold 900 ml of fluid. In Figure 9 embodiments, the bladder 104 is sized to hold 1000 ml of fluid. As described above, the size, shape, and overall appearance of the bladder 104 can vary based on the application.

[0067] Now referring to Figure 10 , a memory card 106 is shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The memory card 106 includes a bottom or substrate, shown as a board substrate 140, which supports and couples various components of the memory card 106. In some embodiments, the board substrate 140 is a printed circuit board (PCB). The memory card 106 includes a series of electrical contacts extending from the front face of the board substrate 140, shown as contacts 142. The contacts 142 are configured to electrically couple the memory card 106 to the controller 70 when the cartridge 100 is coupled to the housing 80. As shown, the memory card 106 includes four contacts 142. In other embodiments, the memory card 106 includes more or fewer contacts 142.

[0068] The memory card 106 includes a protrusion 144 coupled to the board substrate 140. The protrusion 144 extends forward from the front face of the board substrate 140. In some embodiments, the protrusion 144 is an electrical component. By way of example, the protrusion 144 can include a memory device, a capacitor, a resistor, and / or another electrical component. In other embodiments, the memory card 106 includes more or fewer protrusions 144.

[0069] The board substrate 140 defines a channel, recess, or hole extending through the board substrate 140, shown as a clamp channel 146. Specifically and in the illustrated example, the clamp channel 146 extends completely through the board substrate 140 from the front face of the board substrate 140 to the back face of the board substrate 140. The clamp channel 146 is elongated and extends a distance W in the lateral direction 1 greater than the height of the clamp channel 146 in the vertical direction. The protrusion extends a distance W in the lateral direction 2 . The distance W 1 is greater than the distance W 2 , such that the clamp channel 146 is wider than the protrusion 144. Both the clamp channel 146 and the protrusion 144 are substantially laterally centered on the board substrate 140 such that the clamp channel 146 extends laterally beyond both sides of the protrusion 144.

[0070] The housing 102 can be made of a variety of different materials, such as plastics, metals (e.g., steel, aluminum, etc.) and / or composite materials (e.g., fiberglass, carbon fiber, etc.). The housing 102 can be made of a single material or a combination of multiple materials. In some embodiments, the housing 102 is formed of a relatively hard or rigid material (e.g., hard plastic or metal). The housing 102 can provide a structure for supporting various other components of the cartridge 100, and thus selecting a rigid material for the housing 102 can improve the structural integrity of the entire cartridge 100. Advantageously, this increased rigidity improves the robustness of the cartridge 100 during use with a printer.

[0071] In the depicted example, the housing 102 is integrally formed such that the housing 102 is a single continuous piece of material (e.g., the housing 102 is a monolithic component). In this manner, each of the plurality of walls including the neck interface for the bladder (described herein) and the bladder volume for receiving the bladder defined by at least some of the plurality of walls is formed of a single continuous piece of material. It should be understood that while the housing is shown and described herein as a single continuous piece of material, in certain embodiments, additional components may be coupled to the housing. Additionally and as shown herein, the neck interface is constructed or formed of a single material (a single component) rather than being formed of multiple (e.g., two) components.

[0072] As an example, the housing 102 can be injection molded or blow molded (as well as other types of plastic manufacturing processes), cast, or otherwise formed as a single continuous piece of material. In one such embodiment, the housing 102 is injection molded from plastic. As another alternative example, the housing 102 can initially be formed of two or more separate pieces of material that are subsequently permanently attached or otherwise combined with each other (e.g., by welding, brazing, adhesion, fastening, etc.). The single continuous piece of material can be homogeneous or non - homogeneous (e.g., two sections of a first material joined by a second bonding material). By forming the housing 102 as a single continuous piece of material, the amount of assembly required to produce the cartridge 100 can be reduced relative to other cartridges that utilize a housing assembled from two or more separate pieces. Additionally, the integrally formed housing 102 can require less material than a housing assembled from two or more separate pieces, thereby reducing the cost of the cartridge 1010 relative to other cartridges. (e.g., by reducing the likelihood of the housing 102 splitting into multiple pieces) The integrally formed housing 102 improves the durability of the cartridge 100. This improvement in durability can reduce the amount of packaging material required when shipping the cartridge 100 relative to a more fragile housing. Additionally, the monolithically formed housing 102 can eliminate parts associated with multi - component or partial housings, thereby reducing the inventory and assembly burden (e.g., fewer parts / components to store and index and an easier assembly process due to the smaller number of parts / components).

[0073] Referring toFigure 2 and Figure 3 The housing 102 includes a series of walls or panels. A first wall or panel, shown as the front wall 150, extends laterally and vertically along the front side of the housing 102. A second wall or panel, shown as the top wall 152, extends laterally and longitudinally along the top side of the housing 102. A third wall or panel, shown as the bottom wall 154, extends laterally and longitudinally along the bottom side of the housing 102. The top wall 152 is substantially parallel to the bottom wall 154. A pair of fourth walls or panels, shown as the side walls 156, extend vertically and longitudinally along the right and left sides of the housing 102, respectively. The side walls 156 are substantially parallel to each other. The top wall 152, the bottom wall 154, and the side walls 156 are substantially perpendicular to the front wall 150 and extend longitudinally rearward from the front wall 150.

[0074] Reference Figure 3 to, the top wall 152 intersects the side walls 156 along a first pair of longitudinal protrusions (shown as seams 158). Similarly, the bottom wall 154 intersects the side walls 156 along a second pair of seams 158. Each seam 158 is thicker than the adjacent wall and extends inwardly from that wall. The seams 158 increase the rigidity of the housing 102. Additionally, the seams 158 can act as runners during the injection molding process, facilitating the flow of material to the walls and ensuring complete filling of the housing 102 with material. The seams 158 may also be referred to herein as interfaces, joints, abutments, or intersections or crossing points. The seams 158 define the intersection regions between adjacent walls of the housing 102.

[0075] A volume (e.g., space, cavity, etc.), shown as the bladder volume 160, is defined between the front wall 150, the top wall 152, the bottom wall 154, and the side walls 156. The bladder volume 160 is configured to receive and at least partially contain the bladder 104. Thus, the bladder volume 160 can be designed in size and shape to correspond to the size and shape of the bladder 104, which can vary significantly based on the implementation applications as shown and described herein. A hole or opening, shown as the bladder hole 162, is defined between the top wall 152, the bottom wall 154, and the side walls 156. The bladder hole 162 extends along the rear side of the housing 102. The bladder 104 is accessible (e.g., exposed to the surrounding environment) through the bladder hole 162.

[0076] Reference Figure 4 to, the bladder hole 162 facilitates insertion of the bladder 104 into the bladder volume 160. During installation, the bladder 104 is first inserted through the bladder hole 162, the neck 114, until the bladder 104 is fully seated within the bladder volume 160. The positioning of the bladder hole 162 also facilitates accommodation of various different sized bladders 104. Figures 7 - 9Illustrated is a housing 102 coupled to bladders 104 of various different sizes. In each embodiment, the same housing 102 is used. The bladders 104 all have similar widths and heights to facilitate insertion into the bladder volume 160. Each bladder 104 has a different length in the longitudinal direction such that each bladder 104 has a different volume. Since the bladder aperture 162 is placed along the rear side of the housing 102, the bladder aperture 162 allows the bladder 104 to extend through the bladder aperture 162 and at least partially extend rearward beyond the housing 102. Thus, a single housing 102 can accommodate bladders 104 that are longer than the housing 102 and thus accommodate bladders 104 of various volume sizes. The housing 102 reduces the cost associated with providing cartridges 100 of various different sizes.

[0077] Reference Figure 3 , each sidewall 156 defines a relief, notch, groove, or cutout, shown as cutout 164. The cutout 164 extends completely transversely through the sidewall 156 from the outer surface of the housing 102 to the inner surface of the housing 102. The cutout 164 extends longitudinally forward from the rear surface of the sidewall 156 toward the front wall 150. The cutout 164 only partially extends longitudinally through the sidewall 156 such that the cutout 164 does not reach the front wall 150. In other embodiments, the cutout 164 extends the entire length or height of the sidewall 156. As Figure 3 shown, the cutouts 164 each have a curved (e.g., semi-circular, semi-lunar, etc.) shape. In other embodiments, the cutouts 164 are shaped otherwise (e.g., triangular, rectangular, trapezoidal, etc.). In other embodiments, each sidewall 156 includes a plurality of cutouts 164. Additionally and as shown, the cutouts 164 are identical in shape (i.e., mirror images of each other). In other embodiments, only cutouts are implemented, the cutouts having different shapes and sizes, and / or another different feature.

[0078] The cutouts 164 can reduce the amount of material required to form the housing 102, thereby reducing the cost of manufacturing the housing 102. The cutouts 164 can facilitate complete filling of the housing 102 with material during an injection molding process. As an example, the cutouts 164 can be placed away from the location where material is added to the housing 102 during the injection molding process, thereby reducing the distance the material needs to travel during injection molding.

[0079] Reference Figure 11 , according to an exemplary embodiment, the cartridge 100 is shown filled with fluid. Gravity on the fluid causes the fluid to force the bladder 104 outward, thereby causing the bladder 104 to expand laterally. The expansion of the bladder 104 causes a corresponding lateral expansion of the housing 102. As Figure 11 shown, the portion of the housing 102 that experiences the greatest lateral deflection is the region adjacent the cutout 164. Figure 11The incision 164 is shown in dashed lines, and a version of the cartridge 100 without the incision 164 is shown in solid lines. As shown, by adding the incision 164 to the housing 102, the overall deflection of the housing 102 when the bladder 104 is filled can be reduced.

[0080] Reference Figure 3 , the housing 102 includes a series of gripping features (e.g., protrusions, ribs, grooves, ridges, etc.) extending outwardly from each of the side walls 156, shown as ribs 166. The ribs 166 are oriented generally vertically and are longitudinally spaced from each other. The ribs 166 are positioned near the top rear corners of each side wall 156. The ribs 166 provide a textured area that facilitates a user's grip (e.g., with the hand) on the cartridge 100 to minimize slippage during installation and removal of the cartridge 100. As an example, a user can place an index finger on one set of ribs 166, a thumb on another set of ribs 166, and apply a clamping force on the housing 102. The clamping force causes the ribs 166 to interlock with the user's fingers, thereby enhancing the user's grip. The ribs 166 can also enhance the rigidity of the housing 102.

[0081] Each of the side walls 156 defines a hole or window extending transversely through the side wall 156, shown as fill level holes 168. Specifically, the fill level holes 168 each extend from the outer surface of the housing 102 to the inner surface of the housing 102. As shown, the fill level holes 168 are positioned adjacent to the front wall 150 of the housing 102. The fill level holes 168 facilitate visual confirmation of the fill level of the bladder 104. As an example, when the bladder 104 is being filled, the cartridge 100 can be oriented such that the neck 114 and the passage 116 extend upwardly (e.g., to prevent spillage). The bladder 104 can be filled with fluid through the passage 116 such that the bladder 104 is filled from the rear end toward the front end. The bladder 104 can be visible through the fill level holes 168, and the bladder 104 can be formed of a transparent or translucent material such that a user or attendant can observe the fluid stored in the bladder 104. When the bladder 104 reaches the desired fill level, the fluid can be visible through the bladder 104 and the fill level holes 168, thereby allowing the user to visually confirm when the bladder 104 has reached the desired fill level. In other embodiments, the fill level holes 168 are positioned otherwise (e.g., to accommodate different desired fill levels).

[0082] Reference Figure 2 , the housing 102 can provide one or more markings 170 along one or more outer surfaces of the housing 102. The markings 170 can visually provide information to an observer, user, or attendant of the cartridge 100. The markings 170 can include numbers, images, and / or text. The markings 170 can convey various information, such as information identifying the type of fluid contained within the cartridge 100, warnings, recycling instructions, an identification of the manufacturer of the cartridge 100, or other information.

[0083] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 12 ,the housing 102 also includes an attachment system or attachment interface (shown as the mounting assembly 180), which is configured to engage a mounting bracket (shown as the cartridge receiver 82). The cartridge receiver 82 is coupled to the outer shell 80 and is configured to support a pair of cartridges 100 (e.g., the ink cartridge 20 and the solvent cartridge 30). The cartridge receiver 82 defines a pair of longitudinal recesses, shown as cartridge recesses 84, each recess being sized to receive one of the cartridges 100. The mounting assembly 180 is configured to facilitate a selective coupling between each cartridge 100 and the cartridge receiver 82. The mounting assembly 180 can allow the cartridge 100 to slide, particularly longitudinally into the cartridge recess 84, by pressing the cartridge 100 forward into the cartridge recess 84. Similarly, the mounting assembly 180 can allow the cartridge 100 to slide out of the cartridge recess 84 by pulling the cartridge 100 backward out of the cartridge recess 84.

[0084] Reference Figure 13 ,in accordance with an exemplary embodiment, the cartridge receiver 82 is coupled to a hinged portion of the outer shell 80, shown as the door 86. The door 86 is pivotable about a transverse axis between an open position (e.g., as shown in Figure 13 ) and a closed position adjacent to the main portion of the outer shell 80. Since the cartridge receiver 82 is coupled to the door 86, the cartridge 100 moves with the door 86 when the door 86 opens and closes. In the closed position, the door 86 prevents access to the cartridge 100, and the cartridge 100 is oriented such that the passage 116 of the neck 114 extends vertically downward to facilitate the discharge of the bladder 104. In the open position, the door 86 enables the user to access the cartridge(s) 100 (e.g., allows the addition or removal of the cartridge 100).

[0085] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 14 ,in accordance with an exemplary embodiment, the mounting assembly 180 of the housing 102 includes a first mounting feature, shown as the mounting rail 182. The mounting rail 182 is generally laterally centered on the bottom wall. The mounting rail 182 extends downward from the bottom wall 154 and extends longitudinally along the bottom wall 154. The mounting rail 182 has a generally T-shaped cross-section. In other embodiments, the mounting rail 182 can have different shapes and structures. Specifically, the mounting rail 182 includes a narrow portion 184 and a wide portion 186. The narrow portion 184 extends between the bottom wall 154 and the wide portion 186. The wide portion 186 extends laterally beyond both sides of the narrow portion 184, forming a pair of overhanging flanges 188.

[0086] In some embodiments, a channel or recess, shown as channel 190, extends longitudinally through narrow portion 184 and wide portion 186. Channel 190 may extend longitudinally through mounting rail 182 partially or completely. Channel 190 may reduce the amount of material required to form mounting rail 182.

[0087] Reference Figure 12 and Figure 14 , the bottom wall 90 of the cartridge receiver 82 defines a pair of longitudinal slots or grooves, shown as rail slots 92. The rail slots 92 extend longitudinally forward from the rear surface of the bottom wall 90. Each rail slot 92 is generally centered transversely over the corresponding cartridge recess 84. As Figure 14 shown, when the cartridge 100 is assembled with the cartridge receiver 82, the mounting rail 182 is received within the corresponding rail slot 92. Specifically, the rail slot 92 receives the narrow portion 184. The bottom wall 90 of the cartridge receiver 82 is received between the bottom wall 154 of the housing 102 and the wide portion 186 of the mounting rail 182. The narrow portion 184 engages the bottom wall 90 to limit or restrict lateral movement of the cartridge 100 relative to the cartridge receiver 82. The bottom wall 154 engages the bottom wall 90 to limit downward vertical movement of the cartridge 100 relative to the cartridge receiver 82. The wide portion 186 (particularly the overhanging flange 188) engages the bottom wall 90 to limit upward vertical movement of the cartridge 100 relative to the cartridge receiver 82. Thus, the mounting rail 182 serves as a guide that allows longitudinal movement of the cartridge 100 while restricting movement in other directions.

[0088] Reference Figure 3 (identical to Figure 2 ) and Figure 15A and Figure 15B (which varies with respect to Figure 2 ) of the cartridge, the mounting assembly 180 includes a pair of slots, shown as flange slots 200, each extending inwardly from the front wall 150 and the bottom wall 154. The flange slots 200 each separate a portion of the side wall 156 from the front wall 150 and the bottom wall 154, forming a hanging plate or extension, shown as a latching flange 202. The flange slots 200 separate the latching flange 202 from the front wall 150 and the bottom wall 154, thereby allowing the latching flange 202 to deflect laterally inwardly (e.g., elastically deform). As described below, Figure 15A and Figure 15B of the cartridge includes a relatively more pronounced release area with respect to Figure 2 (and Figure 3 ).

[0089] The housing 102 defines a pair of divets, recesses, notches, or grooves, shown as latching recesses 204. Specifically, each latching recess 204 is defined by one of the latching flanges 202. The latching recesses 204 extend transversely inwardly from the outer surface of each sidewall 156. In some embodiments, the thickness of the region surrounding each latching recess 204 is increased to increase the depth of the latching recess 204. The latching recesses 204 are positioned adjacent to the front wall 150 and the bottom wall 154 of the housing 102. The latching recesses 204 are vertically elongated.

[0090] Referring Figure 16 , the cartridge receiver 82 includes a pair of lateral protrusions, shown as latching members 206, which extend laterally into each cartridge recess 84. As an example, the latching members 206 may be coupled to the sidewalls of the cartridge receiver 82. The thickness of each latching member 206 in the lateral direction varies as the latching member 206 extends longitudinally. Specifically, the thickness increases and then subsequently decreases to form a smooth transition between the latching member 206 and the sidewall of the cartridge receiver 82. As an example, the latching member 206 may be semi-circular, triangular, or otherwise tapered. The latching members 206 are positioned to enter the latching recesses 204 when the cartridge 100 is disposed within the cartridge recess 84. In this manner, the positioning of the latching recesses 204 defines the position of the fully seated position of the cartridge 100 relative to the cartridge receiver 82.

[0091] To couple the cartridge 100 to the cartridge receiver 82, the cartridge 100 is pressed longitudinally inwardly into the cartridge recess 84. Each latching member 206 engages one of the latching flanges 202. Due to the varying thickness of the latching member 206, the longitudinal force on the cartridge 100 causes the latching member 206 to deflect the latching flange 202 inwardly. When the latching flange 202 is aligned with the latching recess 204, the latching flange 202 pops outwardly, capturing the latching member 206 within the latching recess 204. The spring force of the latching flange 202 prevents the latching member 206 from being removed from the latching recess 204, thereby preventing movement of the cartridge 100 relative to the cartridge receiver 82. If a user applies sufficient pulling force on the cartridge 100, the spring force of the latching flange 202 can be overcome, and the cartridge 100 can be removed. Thus, the latching members 206 and the latching flanges 202 facilitate removably coupling the (one or more) cartridges 100 to the cartridge receiver 82 without the use of tools.

[0092] Now referring to the release area or volume provided by each of the Figure 15A and Figure 15B as well as Figure 2 of the cartridges 100. First referring to Figure 2The cassette, the cassette including a lower portion 212a of the front wall 150. The lower portion 212a is interconnected with the bottom wall 154 with a radius or curvature concave with respect to the flange slot 200 (i.e., offset with respect to the front surface of the housing 102). In other words, the flange slot 200 (and in particular, the front wall 150 defining the flange slot 200) extends further outward and away from the curved lower portion 212a. When the cassette 100 is inserted into the receiver 82, this structure defines a release area or volume of the cassette receiver 82.

[0093] Compared with Figure 2 the curved lower portion 212a of the cassette, referring to Figure 15A , Figure 15B and Figure 17 , the lower portion 212b of the front wall 150 of the cassette 100 (specifically, the housing 102) is angled inwardly towards the bladder receiver and is thus also offset with respect to the front surface of the housing 102 (offset inwardly towards the bladder volume). In this regard, the front wall 150 of the housing 102 includes a substantially vertical portion shown as the upper portion 210 and an angled portion or release feature shown as the lower portion 212b. The neck 114 extends through the upper portion 210, and the lower portion 212b is located below the neck 114. The lower portion 212b extends between the upper portion 210 and the bottom wall 154 and connects the upper portion 210 and the bottom wall 154. The upper portion 210 extends in a vertical or substantially vertical first plane, and the bottom wall 154 extends in a horizontal or substantially horizontal second plane. The lower portion 212b is angled with respect to the upper portion 210 and the bottom wall 154 such that the lower portion 212b is not parallel to the first plane or the second plane.

[0094] Each of the lower portions 212a and 212b configured in the housing 102 defines an auxiliary surface or a release surface. In Figure 2 the housing 102, the release surface is shown as a curved surface. In Figure 2 the housing 102, the release surface is a curved surface, which is shown as the curved surface 214a. In Figure 15A and Figure 15B the housing 102, the release surface is an angled surface, which is shown as the chamfered surface 214b. The curved surface 214a extends from the upper portion 210 of the front wall 150 backward and downward to the bottom wall 154. The chamfered surface 214b extends from the upper portion 210 of the front wall 150 backward and downward to the bottom wall 154. Thus, the distance between the chamfered surface 214b and the first plane of the upper portion 210 increases as the chamfered surface 214b extends towards the bottom wall 154. Similarly, the distance between the chamfered surface 214b and the second plane of the bottom wall 154 increases as the chamfered surface 214b extends towards the upper portion 210. In Figure 2In the housing 102, the distance between the lower portion 212 and the curved surface 214a also increases as the surface gets closer to the bottom wall. The chamfered surface 214b prevents the upper portion 210 and the bottom wall 154 from being directly connected to each other, thus embedding into the front bottom corners of the housing 102. This is also shown with Figure 2 the curved surface 214a of the housing. It should be understood that in other embodiments employing a curved surface similar to that of the housing 102 of Figure 2 , the radius of curvature of the surface 214a can also be changed (e.g., increased or decreased).

[0095] In Figure 2 or Figure 15A and Figure 15B configurations, when the cartridge 100 is fully seated within the cartridge recess 84 of the cartridge receiver 82, an empty space or volume shown as a fluid accumulation void 216 is defined between the chamfered surface 214b ( Figure 2 the curved surface 214a in Figure 2 ) of the housing 102 of Figure 2 or Figure 15A and Figure 15B and the wall of the cartridge receiver 82. The fluid accumulation void 216 is vertically positioned below the neck 114. During the extended operation of the printer 10, multiple different cartridges 100 can be added to, depleted of fluid, and removed from the printer 10. During this process, fluid from the neck 114 can drip down into the fluid accumulation void 216 and solidify. Additionally, particulate matter may become trapped in this void or gap. In the absence of an insert provided by the chamfered surface 214b or the curved surface 214a (i.e., the release feature) of the housing 102 of Figure 2 , such accumulated material can contact the housing 102 of

[0096] Figure 3

[0097] Figure 3 Figure 14 Referring to Figure 3 and Figure 14, during the insertion of cartridge 100 into cartridge receiver 82, the bevel 220 engages the bottom wall 90 of the cartridge receiver 82. Specifically, the bottom wall 90 first engages the front end of the bevel 220. As the cartridge 100 is further moved into the cartridge recess 84, the bottom wall 90 moves along the incline of the bevel 220, forcing the rear end of the housing 102 upward. This upward movement causes the housing 102 to rotate about the mounting rail 182, which in turn causes the front wall 150 to rotate forward. By pushing the front wall 150 forward, the memory card 106 is also pushed forward. This applies a positive pressure that causes the contacts 142 of the memory card 106 to engage a corresponding set of contacts in the cartridge receiver 82. Thus, the bevel 220 facilitates a consistent electrical connection between the memory card 106 and the printer 10.

[0098] Reference Figure 18 and Figure 19 , the housing 102 includes a neck coupling portion, shown as neck interface 240, which is positioned along / positioned on the front wall 150 of the housing 102. The neck interface 240 is configured to couple the neck 114 of the bladder 104 to the housing 102 and, in particular, to retain or hold the neck 114 of the bladder 104 in a desired orientation / position. The neck interface 240 defines a hole or passageway, shown as neck hole 242, through which the neck 114 extends. The neck interface 240 engages the shoulder 120 of the neck 114, preventing the neck 114 from being pulled back through the neck hole 242 and restricting longitudinal movement of the bladder 104 relative to the housing 102.

[0099] The neck interface 240 includes a series of radial protrusions or members, shown as fingers 250, which extend radially inwardly toward the longitudinal centerline "L" of the neck 114. The fingers 250 are positioned adjacent to the neck passageway and partially define the neck hole 242. In this regard, the distal ends of the fingers 250 are equidistantly spaced from the longitudinal centerline L to form the neck hole 242. The fingers 250 are angularly spaced from each other at regular intervals such that a notch, groove, or gap, shown as finger space 252, is formed between adjacent fingers 250. In Figure 18 the embodiment shown, the neck interface 240 includes six fingers 250 and six finger spaces 252. In other embodiments, the neck interface 240 includes more or fewer fingers 250 and / or finger spaces 252.

[0100] The distal portion of each finger 250 defines a pair of engagement surfaces, shown as engagement surface 260 and engagement surface 262. Engagement surface 260 extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal centerline L. Engagement surface 260 is positioned to engage engagement surface 124 of shoulder 120, thereby restricting (e.g., preventing or substantially preventing) the rearward longitudinal movement of shoulder 120. Engagement surface 262 faces radially inward toward the longitudinal centerline L. Engagement surface 262 may have a substantially constant radius about the longitudinal centerline L. Engagement surface 262 is positioned to engage outer surface 126 of shoulder 120, thereby restricting the radial movement of neck 114. Since fingers 250 surround neck 114, the engagement between engagement surface 262 and outer surface 126 maintains the longitudinal alignment of neck 114 relative to housing 102.

[0101] Each finger 250 extends at an angle θ relative to the front surface of housing 102. In some embodiments, the angle θ is greater than zero degrees such that fingers 250 do not extend parallel to the front surface of housing 102. In some embodiments, the angle θ is less than 90 degrees such that fingers 250 do not extend perpendicular to the front surface of housing 102. In some embodiments, the angle θ is approximately 30 degrees. As fingers 250 extend toward the longitudinal centerline L, fingers 250 extend longitudinally forward.

[0102] During installation of bladder 104 into housing 102, neck 114 is forced (e.g., pulled and / or pushed) longitudinally forward through neck aperture 242. Tapered surface 122 engages fingers 250, elastically bending, deflecting, outwardly flexing, or otherwise moving fingers 250 outwardly and away from neck 114, thereby expanding neck aperture 242 to permit passage of shoulder 120 through neck aperture 242. Finger spaces 252 may facilitate the relative movement of fingers 250 to facilitate the expansion of neck aperture 242. When shoulder 120 has moved past the ends of fingers 250, fingers 250 may bend inwardly back (e.g., due to elastic deformation causing fingers 250 to return or move back to their original or substantially original position) and engage shoulder 120. In this configuration, as Figure 19 shown, engagement surface 260 of fingers 250 engages engagement surface 124 of shoulder 120, and engagement surface 262 of fingers 250 engages outer surface 126 of shoulder 120. The contact between fingers 250 and shoulder 120 and the contact between the foremost wall 110 of bladder 104 and front wall 150 fix bladder 104 in place relative to housing 102.

[0103] In the case where a rearward longitudinal force is applied to the neck 114 (e.g., by attempting to remove the bladder 104 from the housing 102), the rearward force is counteracted by the engagement surface 260 of the finger 250. This introduces a moment load on the finger 250 that attempts to cause rotation of the finger 250. Due to the angled orientation of the finger 250, for the finger 250 to rotate rearward in this manner, the end of the finger 250 would need to move towards the longitudinal centerline L. This causes the engagement surface 262 to move radially inward, compressing the shoulder 120. As the rearward force on the neck 114 increases, the compressive force of the finger 250 on the shoulder 120 also increases, thereby strengthening the grip of the finger 250 on the neck 114. Accordingly, due to the angled orientation of the finger 250, the ability of the neck interface 240 to resist removal of the bladder 104 is enhanced.

[0104] Referring Figures 20A - 20C , the housing further includes a memory card coupling portion or memory card interface, shown as the card interface 270, which is positioned along the front wall 150 of the housing 102. Specifically, the card interface 270 is located directly above the neck interface 240. The card interface 270 is configured to selectively couple the memory card 106 to the housing 102. The card interface 270 can be accessed from the exterior of the housing such that the memory card 106 can be inserted into the card interface 270 from the exterior of the housing 102 without removing the bladder 104. In some embodiments, the card interface 270 removably couples the memory card 106 to the housing 102, thereby facilitating removal of the memory card 106 when handling the used cartridge 100. In the event that the memory card 106 malfunctions and needs to be replaced, the card interface 270 can also facilitate removal of the memory card 106.

[0105] The card interface 270 includes a series of walls, partitions, or supports that accommodate, hold, and support the memory card 106. Specifically, the card interface 270 includes (a) a foremost wall shown as the outer wall 272, (b) a rearmost wall shown as the inner wall 274, (c) a pair of left and right sidewalls shown as the side rails 276, and (d) a bottommost wall shown as the bottom wall 278. The outer wall 272, inner wall 274, side rails 276, and bottom wall 278 together define a recess or slot that houses the memory card 106, which is shown as the card pocket 280. The card pocket 280 can be accessed through an upwardly facing opening shown as the card pocket hole 282. The card pocket hole 282 extends between the outer wall 272, inner wall 274, and side rails 276 and is defined by the outer wall 272, inner wall 274, and side rails 276.

[0106] The memory card 106 can be vertically inserted downward into the card pocket 280 through the card pocket hole 282. Since the card pocket hole 282 is positioned outside the housing 102, the memory card 106 can be inserted into and / or removed from the housing 102 at any time, regardless of the assembled state of the cartridge 100. As an example, the memory card 106 can be inserted into and / or removed from the housing 102 regardless of whether the bladder 104 has been coupled to the housing 102. This ability facilitates the flexibility in manufacturing the cartridge 100 because the memory card 106 can be added to the cartridge 100 at any time point after the housing 102 is formed.

[0107] Once the memory card 106 is received within the card pocket hole 282, the walls of the card interface 270 engage the memory card 106 to restrict (e.g., prevent) movement of the memory card 106 relative to the housing 102. The outer wall 272 engages the front side of the memory card 106 to restrict forward longitudinal movement of the memory card 106. The inner wall 274 engages the rear side of the memory card 106 to restrict rearward longitudinal movement of the memory card 106. The side rails 276 engage the left and right sides of the memory card 106 to restrict lateral movement of the memory card 106. The bottom wall 278 engages the bottom side of the memory card 106 to restrict downward vertical movement of the memory card 106.

[0108] The outer wall 272 of the card interface 270 defines a recess or hole, shown as the contact cutout 290. The contact cutout 290 extends along the front surface of the housing 102. As shown, the contact cutout 290 is integral with the card pocket hole 282. When the memory card 106 is inserted into the card pocket 280, the contact cutout 290 provides clearance for the contacts 142, thereby preventing damage caused by contact between the contacts 142 and the housing 102. Additionally, when the memory card 106 is fully seated within the card pocket 280, the contact cutout 290 prevents the housing 102 from obstructing access to the contacts 142 and facilitates access to the contacts 142 by the printer 100.

[0109] A portion of the outer wall 272 extends forward to define an upward and rearward recess, shown as the protrusion recess 292. The protrusion recess 292 is laterally centered relative to the card pocket 280 such that when the memory card 106 is fully inserted into the card pocket 280, the protrusion recess 292 receives the protrusion 144 of the memory card 106. The protrusion recess 292 provides spacing for the protrusion 144 such that the outer wall 272 does not interfere with the protrusion 144 during insertion of the memory card 106. The portion of the outer wall 272 that defines the protrusion recess 292 may also extend in front of the protrusion 144 to protect the protrusion 144 from undesired contact (e.g., impact) with other objects.

[0110] The outer wall 272 further defines a pair of elongated channels, slots, or slits, shown as face slots 294. The face slots 294 are elongated in the vertical direction and extend longitudinally through the outer wall 272. The face slots 294 are positioned on opposite sides of the contact cutout 290. Each face slot 294 is positioned directly adjacent to one of the side rails 276. The face slots 294 may facilitate injection molding of the housing 102. Specifically, the shape of the housing 102 may be formed by a mold during injection molding. The face slots 294 may facilitate insertion of a portion of the mold that forms the side rails 276. Without the face slots 294, the mold may not have been able to reach into the card pocket 280 to define the side rails 276.

[0111] The card interface 270 includes a pair of latches, retainers, or angled protrusions, shown as clamps 300. Each clamp 300 includes a generally horizontal surface facing downward and an angled surface facing upward. Specifically, the angled surface extends forward as the angled surface extends upward. The clamps 300 are coupled to the outer wall 272 and extend longitudinally rearward from the outer wall 272. The clamps 300 are positioned on opposite sides of the protrusion recess 292. The clamps 300 are arranged at generally the same vertical position. When the memory card 106 is fully inserted into the card pocket 280, the clamps 300 are positioned to be received within the clamp channels 146 of the memory card 106. During insertion of the memory card 106, the bottom edge of the memory card 106 engages the angled surface of each clamp 300. The engagement of the memory card 106 with the angled surface causes the clamps 300 to deflect longitudinally forward, away from the memory card 106, thereby allowing the memory card 106 to move downward. When the clamps 300 reach the clamp channels 146, the clamps 300 enter the clamp channels 146. If an upward force is then applied to the memory card 106, the memory card 106 engages the generally horizontal surface of the clamps 300 and remains in place. Thus, the clamps 300 resist removal of the memory card 106.

[0112] The card interface 270 includes another buckle or retainer, shown as a clamp 302. The clamp 302 includes a generally horizontal surface facing downward and an angled surface facing upward. Specifically, the angled surface extends rearward as the angled surface extends upward. The clamp 302 is coupled to the inner wall 274 and extends longitudinally forward from the inner wall 274. The clamp 302 is approximately centered laterally around the card pocket 280. When the memory card 106 is fully inserted into the card pocket 280, the clamp 302 is positioned above the memory card 106. During the insertion of the memory card 106, the bottom edge of the memory card 106 engages the angled surface of the clamp 302. The engagement of the memory card 106 with the angled surface causes the clamp 302 to deflect longitudinally backward, away from the memory card 106, thereby allowing the memory card 106 to move downward. When the clamp 300 reaches the top surface of the memory card 106, the clamp 302 moves to a position above the memory card 106. If an upward force is then applied to the memory card 106, the memory card 106 engages the generally horizontal surface of the clamp 302 and is held in place. Thus, the clamp 302 resists removal of the memory card 106.

[0113] In some embodiments, the memory card 106 can be selectively removed from the card interface 270. In some embodiments, the memory card 106 can be slid out of the card pocket 280 by causing the clamps 300 and 302 to deviate from the memory card 106. The user can apply a forward longitudinal force on the clamp 300 to disengage the clamp 300 from the memory card 106. The user can also apply a backward longitudinal force on the clamp 302 to disengage the clamp 302 from the memory card 106. Once disengaged, the clamps 300 and 302 can allow the memory card 106 to slide upward out of the card pocket 280. Removably connecting the memory card 106 to the card interface 270 can facilitate the removal of the memory card 106 when the box 100 is disposed (for example, to facilitate the recycling of two different materials). Removably connecting the memory card 106 to the card interface 270 can also facilitate replacement of the memory card 106 when the memory card 106 fails or with a memory card 106 containing different data.

[0114] Figure 21 The box 100 is depicted relative to Figures 2 - 4 , Figures 7 - 9 and Figures 18 - 23 A variation of the box in . Figure 21 The box 100 is substantially similar in structure and function to Figures 2 - 4 , Figures 7 - 9 and Figures 18 - 23 The box 100, in addition to including as Figures 20A - 20C Therefore, unless otherwise described herein, all references to the card interface 270 contained herein below and in any other manner are intended to be construed as being in addition to the card interface 270 of the variant shown in FIG. Figure 2 The description of the box also applies to Figure 2 Description.

[0115] refer toFigures 22A - 22C , shows Figure 21 the card interface 270 of the cartridge 100. Figures 22A - 22C The card interface 270 of Figures 20A - 20C can be substantially similar to the card interface 270 of

[0116] Reference Figure 23 and Figure 24 , the cartridge package or container (shown as package 310) is configured to accommodate one or more cartridges 100. The package 310 can be used during transportation to protect the cartridges 100, such as from impact by other objects. The package 310 includes a first portion shown as a bottom portion 312 and a second portion shown as a top portion 314. The bottom portion 312 can be interlocked with or otherwise engaged with the top portion 314 to removably couple the top portion 314 to the bottom portion 312. The top portion 314 and the bottom portion 312 define a receiving volume therebetween for receiving the cartridge 100. When the top portion 314 is coupled to the bottom portion 312, the package 310 substantially surrounds the cartridge 100. As shown, the package 310 is configured to accommodate up to six cartridges 100. In other embodiments, the package 310 is configured to contain more or fewer cartridges 100.

[0117] Reference Figures 25 - 29 , shows a neck interface 240 according to various additional alternative embodiments. Figures 25 - 29 The neck interface 240 of Figure 18 and Figure 19 can be substantially similar to the neck interfaces of Figure 25 and Figure 26Shows a neck interface 240 according to a first alternative embodiment. In this embodiment, the fingers 250 are omitted and replaced by a pair of biasing elements (shown as spring fingers 330) and a mating surface 332 defined by the front wall 150. The neck hole 242 is only partially enclosed such that the neck hole 242 opens downward. The spring fingers 330 are positioned at opposite lateral sides of the neck hole 242. The mating surface 332 is positioned at the upper end of the neck hole 242 and faces downward. To engage the neck 114 with the neck interface 240, the neck 114 is forced upward into the neck hole 242. The neck 114 deflects the spring fingers 330 laterally outward. When the center of the neck 114 passes between the spring fingers 330, the spring fingers 330 move toward each other and apply an upward biasing force on the neck 114. The mating surface 332 engages the top of the neck 114 such that the neck 114 is captured between the mating surface 332 and the spring fingers 330.

[0118] Reference Figure 27 , shows a neck interface 240 according to another exemplary embodiment. In this embodiment, the neck interface 240 includes two fingers 250, each finger 250 defining a mating surface 262. The neck hole 242 is only partially enclosed such that the neck hole 242 opens downward. To engage the neck 114 with the neck interface 240, the neck 114 is forced upward into the neck hole 242. The mating surface 262 of the fingers 250 engages the neck 114 to hold the neck 114 in place.

[0119] Reference Figure 28 , shows a neck interface 240 according to another exemplary embodiment. In this embodiment, the fingers 250 are located in the vertical plane of the front wall 150. Thus, the angle θ is zero degrees or substantially zero degrees. Reference Figure 29 , shows a neck interface 240 according to another exemplary embodiment. In this example embodiment, Figure 29 the neck interface 240 does not include a mating surface 260.

[0120] Reference Figures 30 - 36 , shows a card interface 270 according to various alternative embodiments. Figures 30 - 36 The card interface 270 of Figures 20A - 20C or Figures 22A - 22C may be substantially similar to the card interface 270 of Figure 30Shows a card interface 270 according to a first embodiment. In this embodiment, the front wall 150 defines a recess or pocket, shown as a card recess 350. The card recess 350 extends longitudinally rearward into the front wall 150. The card recess 350 can be sized to receive the board substrate 140. A second recess or pocket, shown as a protrusion recess 352, extends longitudinally rearward into the front wall 150. The protrusion recess 352 extends rearward beyond the card recess 350. The protrusion recess 352 can be sized to receive the protrusion 144. Thus, the protrusion recess 352 can be smaller than the card recess 350. When the memory card 106 is installed in the card interface 270, the memory card 106 moves longitudinally rearward until the protrusion recess 352 receives the protrusion 144 and the card recess 350 receives the board substrate 140. The memory card 106 can be held in place by an adhesive, a fastener, or another type of connector.

[0121] Reference Figure 31 , shows a card interface 270 according to another exemplary embodiment. Figure 31 The card interface 270 of also defines an additional recess, shown as an insert 354. The insert 354 extends between the card recess 350 and the outer surface of the front wall 150. The insert 354 can position the memory card 106 further rearward to provide additional protection against collisions with external debris.

[0122] Reference Figure 32 , shows a card interface 270 according to another exemplary embodiment. Figure 32 The card interface 270 of includes a pair of retainers, shown as clamps 360. The clamps 360 are located on the left and right sides of the card recess 350 respectively. The clamps 360 are positioned to engage the left and right sides of the memory card 106 to hold the memory card 106 in the card recess 350. Figure 33 Shows a similar embodiment where the clamps 360 are positioned to engage the top and bottom sides of the memory card 106. Figure 34 Shows a similar embodiment including a single clamp 360 that engages the memory card 106.

[0123] Reference Figure 35 , shows a card interface 270 according to another exemplary embodiment. In Figure 35 the card interface 270 of, the contact notch 290 and the card pocket hole 282 are separated from each other by a portion of the front wall 150. Additionally, the insert 354 extends between the card pocket hole 290 and the outer surface of the front wall 150. Reference Figure 36 , shows a card interface 270 according to another exemplary embodiment. In Figure 36 the card interface 270 of, a single clamp 300 extends longitudinally forward from the inner wall 274. Additionally, from Figure 36 the card interface 270 of, the face slot 294 is omitted.

[0124] ReferenceFigures 37 - 4 8 shows various alternative additional embodiments of the cartridge 100. Figures 37 - 4 The cartridge 100 of 8 can be substantially similar to Figure 2 the cartridge 100, unless otherwise specified herein. As can be appreciated, the cartridge 100 and particularly the housing 102 adopt various different shapes, sizes and features, such that the housing 102 can be shaped and sized in various different ways. Referring to Figure 37 , a cartridge 100 according to another exemplary embodiment is shown. The housing 102 of the cartridge 100 includes a series of structural reinforcements, shown as ribs 400. The ribs 400 extend longitudinally forward from the rear side of the housing 102. The ribs 400 can be formed by bending the side walls 156 either laterally inward or laterally outward. The ribs 400 can increase the rigidity of the housing 102.

[0125] Referring to Figure 38 , a cartridge 100 according to another exemplary embodiment is shown. In Figure 38 the cartridge 100, the shape and number of the cutouts 164 are different from Figure 2 those of the cartridge 100. Specifically, Figure 38 the housing 102 of the cartridge 100 has cutouts 164 along the left and right sides and the top side of the housing 102. Additionally, the cutouts 164 along the left and right sides are integrated with the cutouts 164 along the top side of the housing 102.

[0126] Referring to Figure 39 , a cartridge 100 according to another exemplary embodiment is shown. In Figure 39 the cartridge 100, the side walls 156 define a series of channels, shown as side wall holes 410. The side wall holes 410 extend laterally and completely through the side walls 156. The side wall holes 410 can reduce the amount of material required to form the housing 102. Figure 39 The housing 102 of omits the cutouts 164. Reinforcing ribs or structural ribs (shown as ribs 412) extend along the side walls 156, the top wall 152 and the bottom wall 154 at the rear end of the housing 102. The ribs 412 are thicker than the side walls 16, the top wall 152 and the bottom wall 154. Thus, the ribs 412 can increase the rigidity of the housing 102.

[0127] Referring to Figure 40 , a cartridge 100 according to another exemplary embodiment is shown. In Figure 40 the cartridge 100, the housing 102 includes a movable member coupled to the top wall 152, shown as a door 420. The door 420 is pivotable about a transverse axis between an open position and a closed position. When in the closed position, a series of clamps 422 on the door 420 engage the side walls 156 and the bottom wall 154, keeping the door 420 closed. When in the closed position, the door 420 increases the rigidity of the housing 102.

[0128] Reference Figure 41 , shows the cartridge 100 according to another exemplary embodiment. In the Figure 41 cartridge 100, the housing 102 includes a pair of flanges, shown as reinforcing flanges 430. Each reinforcing flange 430 is coupled to one of the sidewalls 156 and extends rearwardly and laterally outwardly from the corresponding sidewall 156. The reinforcing flanges 430 can increase the rigidity of the housing 102.

[0129] Reference Figure 42 , shows the cartridge 100 according to another exemplary embodiment. In the Figure 42 cartridge 100, each sidewall 156 defines a single vertically elongated sidewall aperture 410. Each sidewall 156 also includes a series of ribs 400 extending between the sidewall aperture 410 and the rear end of the housing 102.

[0130] Reference Figures 43 - 45 , shows the cartridge 100 according to other exemplary embodiments. Figures 43 - 45 The cartridges 100 of all include ribs 412 of different shapes. In the Figure 43 cartridge 100, the ribs 412 include a series of concentric and longitudinally offset rings. In the Figure 44 cartridge 100, the ribs 412 include a honeycomb pattern. In the Figure 45 cartridge 100, the ribs 412 include a series of longitudinally reinforcing materials.

[0131] Reference Figure 46 , shows the cartridge 100 according to another exemplary embodiment. In the Figure 46 cartridge 100, each sidewall 156 includes ribs 412 extending along the edge of the cutout 164. Reference Figure 47 , shows the cartridge 100 according to another exemplary embodiment. In the Figure 47 cartridge 100, each sidewall 156 includes a flange 430. The front edge of each flange 430 is curved, similar to the Figure 2 front edge of the cutout 164 of.

[0132] As used herein with respect to numerical ranges, the terms "about," "approximately," "substantially," and similar terms generally mean + / - 10% of the disclosed value. When the terms "about," "approximately," "substantially," and similar terms are applied to structural features (e.g., to describe their shape, size, orientation, direction, etc.), these terms are intended to cover minor variations in the structure that may be caused, for example, by the manufacturing or assembly process, and are intended to have a broad meaning consistent with the common and accepted usage of those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of the present disclosure pertains. Thus, these terms should be construed to indicate that non-substantive or immaterial modifications or alterations of the described and claimed subject matter are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure as set forth in the appended claims.

[0133] It should be noted that, as used herein, the term "exemplary" and its variations in connection with the description of various embodiments are intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such terms are not intended to imply that such embodiments must be extraordinary or the best examples).

[0134] As used herein, the term "coupled" and its variations mean that two components are coupled to each other directly or indirectly. Such coupling may be stationary (e.g., permanent or fixed) or movable (e.g., removable or releasable). This coupling can be achieved by directly coupling the two components to each other, by using a separate intermediate component and any additional intermediate components (which are coupled to each other) to couple the two components to each other, or by using an intermediate component (the insertion component being integrally formed as a single unit with one of the two components) to couple the two components to each other. If "coupled" or its variations are modified by additional terms (e.g., directly coupled), the general definition of "coupled" provided above is modified by the plain language meaning of the additional term (e.g., "directly coupled" means the coupling of two components without any separate intermediate component), resulting in a narrower definition than the general definition of "coupled" provided above. Such coupling can be mechanical, electrical, or fluidic.

[0135] References herein to the position of elements (e.g., "top", "bottom", "upper", "lower") are for purposes of describing the orientation of the various elements in the drawings. It should be noted that, in accordance with other exemplary embodiments, the orientation of different elements may be different, and such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0136] The hardware and data processing components for implementing the various processes, operations, illustrative logics, logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented or executed using a general-purpose single-chip (or multi-chip) processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor, or any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. The processor can also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a digital signal processor and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a digital signal processor core, or any other such configuration. In some embodiments, specific processes and methods can be performed by circuitry specific to a given function. Memory (e.g., memory, storage unit, storage device) can include one or more devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, flash memory, hard disk storage) for storing data and / or computer code to perform or facilitate the various processes, layers, and modules described in this disclosure. The memory can be or can include volatile memory or non-volatile memory, and the memory can include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described in this disclosure. According to an exemplary embodiment, the memory is communicatively coupled to the processor via a processing circuit and includes computer code for performing (e.g., via the processing circuit or the processor) one or more processes described herein.

[0137] The present disclosure contemplates methods, systems, and program products on any machine-readable medium for accomplishing the various operations. Embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented using existing computer processors, or by a special-purpose computer processor incorporated for this or other purposes, or by a hard-wired system. Embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure include program products that include a machine-readable medium for carrying or having machine-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such a machine-readable medium can be any available medium that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer or other machine with a processor. By way of example, such a machine-readable medium can include RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage, or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store the desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer or other machine with a processor. Combinations of the above are also included within the scope of machine-readable media. Machine-executable instructions include, for example, instructions and data that cause a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, or special-purpose processing machine to perform a certain function or a set of functions.

[0138] Although the accompanying drawings and the description may illustrate a specific order of method steps, the order of these steps may be different from that depicted and described, unless otherwise specified above. In addition, two or more steps may be performed simultaneously or partially simultaneously, unless otherwise stated above.

[0139] It is important to note that the structure and arrangement of the printer as shown in the various exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative. Additionally, any element disclosed in one embodiment may be combined with or utilized in any other embodiment disclosed herein. For example, the neck interface 240 of the exemplary embodiment shown at least in Figure 25 may be incorporated into the cartridge 100 of the exemplary embodiment shown at least in Figure 2 Although only one example of an element from one embodiment that may be combined or utilized in another embodiment has been described above, it should be understood that other elements of the various embodiments may be combined with or used together with any other embodiment disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A housing for a cartridge for a printer, the housing comprising: a plurality of walls that define a bladder volume configured to receive a bladder of the cartridge; and a neck interface of a front wall of the plurality of walls, the neck interface defining a neck hole configured to receive a neck of the bladder, wherein the housing is a single continuous piece of material.

2. The housing according to claim 1, wherein the neck interface includes a plurality of fingers coupled to the front wall, the plurality of fingers being positioned to engage the neck of the bladder.

3. The housing according to claim 2, wherein each of the plurality of fingers is angled relative to the front wall such that the fingers extend longitudinally forward and toward a longitudinal centerline of the neck hole.

4. The housing according to claim 3, wherein a first finger of the plurality of fingers includes a mating surface that extends substantially parallel to the front wall and is positioned to engage the neck of the bladder.

5. The housing according to claim 4, wherein the mating surface is a first mating surface, and wherein the first finger includes a second mating surface that faces the longitudinal centerline of the neck hole and is positioned to engage the neck of the bladder.

6. The housing according to claim 1, further comprising a memory card interface positioned along the front wall and configured to couple a memory card to the housing.

7. The housing according to claim 6, wherein the memory card interface defines a recess configured to receive the memory card, the recess extending rearward from an outer surface of the front wall of the housing.

8. The housing according to claim 7, wherein the memory card interface includes an inner wall offset rearward from the front wall, wherein the inner wall at least partially defines the recess configured to receive the memory card.

9. The housing according to claim 8, wherein the memory card interface further includes a clamp coupled to the inner wall and extending away from the inner wall and into the recess, wherein the clamp is positioned to engage the memory card to prevent removal of the memory card from the memory card interface.

10. The housing according to claim 6, wherein the neck interface includes a plurality of fingers coupled to the front wall, the plurality of fingers being positioned to engage the neck of the bladder.

11. The housing according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of walls further includes a top wall, a bottom wall, and a pair of side walls extending rearward from the front wall, and wherein the top wall, the bottom wall, and the side walls define a bladder hole configured to receive the bladder therethrough.

12. A method of manufacturing a cartridge for a printer, the cartridge having a housing that defines a bladder volume and includes a neck hole positioned on a first side of the cartridge, and the cartridge having a bladder that includes a body configured to hold fluid and having a neck coupled to the body, the method comprising: positioning the bladder such that the neck extends through the neck hole and the body extends within the bladder volume; and During the positioning, at least one member of the housing near the neck hole is moved away from the neck. wherein the housing is a single continuous piece of material.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein, the housing includes a bladder hole on a second side of the housing opposite the first side, and the method further includes inserting the bladder through the bladder hole.

14. The method according to claim 12, further comprising engaging a memory card with a memory card interface of the housing to couple the memory card to the housing.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein, the memory card interface defines a recess, and engaging the memory card with the memory card interface includes inserting the memory card into the recess of the memory card interface.

16. The method according to claim 15, further comprising inserting a clamp of the housing into a clamp hole defined by the memory card such that the clamp engages the memory card to prevent the memory card from being removed from the recess.

17. The method according to claim 12, further comprising offsetting a lower portion of the first side of the housing relative to at least a portion of the remainder of the first side of the housing.

18. A single-piece housing for a printer cartridge, the single-piece housing comprising: a plurality of walls that define a bladder volume configured to receive a bladder of the cartridge; and a neck interface of a front wall of the plurality of walls, the neck interface defining a neck hole configured to receive a neck of the bladder.

19. The single-piece housing according to claim 18, wherein, the plurality of walls includes side walls extending rearward from the front wall, wherein the side walls partially define a hole configured to receive the bladder therethrough.

20. The single-piece housing according to claim 18, wherein, the neck interface includes a plurality of fingers extending toward a longitudinal centerline of the neck hole, and wherein the neck hole is defined between the fingers.

Images