Cartridge, cartridge group, and image forming apparatus

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides a box, a box set and an image forming device. The box is detachably arranged on an image forming device body. The image forming device comprises a containing cavity, a conductive unit, a matching unit and an electric signal response unit. An assembling unit is arranged on the box and is used for being matched with the matching unit, so that the box can be mounted at a preset position in the accommodating cavity; the electric signal triggering assembly is used for being electrically connected with the conductive unit and triggering the electric signal response unit to obtain a preset response signal when the electric signal triggering assembly is installed on the assembling unit of the box and the box is installed to a preset position in the containing cavity, and the preset response signal is used for judging whether installation of the box meets the expectation or not. The cartridge includes a storage device that is farther from an upper surface of the cartridge than the electrical signal trigger assembly. In the embodiment of the invention, the box can be ensured to be installed in place and / or a plurality of boxes can be installed according to a correct sequence.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of image forming technology, and in particular to a box, a box assembly and an image forming device. Background Art

[0002] With the advancement of printing and imaging technology, image forming devices such as printers, copiers, fax machines, and word processors have become widely used. For ease of use, image forming devices are often equipped with consumables that are easily replaced by the user. For example, consumable cartridges (e.g., ink cartridges, toner cartridges, toner cartridges, and toner cartridges) are used to store recording materials (e.g., ink cartridges, toner cartridges, and toner cartridges). When the recording material in the cartridge is exhausted, the user simply replaces the cartridge, and the image forming device can continue to be used.

[0003] A color image forming device typically includes multiple cartridges for holding toner of base colors, and imaging assemblies corresponding to the base colors within the color image forming device. The cartridges supply the toner within the cartridges to the imaging assemblies of the corresponding colors. The imaging assemblies include a photosensitive drum, a charging assembly, and a developing assembly. The charging assembly uniformly charges the surface of the photosensitive drum. This uniformly charged surface of the photosensitive drum carries an electrostatic latent image, which is then developed by the developing assembly and toner. By superimposing the toners of the multiple base colors, a rich variety of colors can be achieved, thereby forming a color image. For example, a certain color image forming device includes cartridges for holding yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) toner, respectively. Corresponding to the cartridges, the image forming device is provided with respective cavities for holding the corresponding color cartridges. It is understood that the yellow, magenta, cyan, and black cartridges should be installed in the yellow, magenta, cyan, and black cavities, respectively, in that order.

[0004] To reduce costs, conventional cartridges for different colors are typically standardized and configured with the same structure. Consequently, users may encounter confusion when installing cartridges of different colors. For example, a magenta cartridge may be installed in a cyan chamber, and a cyan cartridge in a magenta chamber. In this case, magenta toner will be supplied to the cyan imaging component, and cyan toner to the magenta imaging component, resulting in poor development and image quality, which in turn affects the user experience.

[0005] In addition, in the prior art, due to the excessive length of the imaging assembly, the cartridge may not be properly installed. It is understandable that when the cartridge is not properly installed, the toner in the cartridge cannot be properly supplied to the imaging assembly, which will also lead to deterioration of development or image quality, thereby affecting the user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In view of this, the present application provides a box, a box group and an image forming device to solve the problem in the prior art that the box is not installed properly and / or the installation order of the boxes of multiple colors is disordered, resulting in development degradation or image quality degradation.

[0007] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a cartridge that is detachably mounted on an image forming device body, characterized in that the cartridge comprises: a housing, wherein a developer accommodating chamber is provided in the housing, the developer accommodating chamber being used to accommodate developer; an assembly unit, the assembly unit being provided on the housing and configured to mate with a mating unit in the accommodating chamber of the image forming device, so that the cartridge can be mounted to a predetermined position in the accommodating chamber;

[0008] an electric signal trigger component, the electric signal trigger component being disposed on the assembly unit and configured to electrically connect with the conductive unit and trigger the electric signal response unit to obtain a predetermined response signal when the cartridge is installed in a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity, wherein the predetermined response signal is used to determine whether the installation of the cartridge is as expected;

[0009] A storage device is provided in the housing, and an installation position of the storage device is further away from the upper surface of the box relative to the electric signal trigger component.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the electrical signal triggering component includes a first conductive sheet and a second conductive sheet, the first conductive sheet and the second conductive sheet being electrically connected. When the cartridge is installed in a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity, the first conductive sheet is configured to be electrically connected to a first conductive component of the image forming device, and the second conductive sheet is configured to be electrically connected to a second conductive component of the image forming device, so that the first conductive component and the second conductive component are electrically connected, thereby triggering the electrical signal response unit to obtain the predetermined response signal.

[0011] The storage device is installed at a position farther away from the upper surface of the box than the first conductive plate and / or the second conductive plate.

[0012] In one possible implementation, a third groove is provided on the upper surface of the box, the assembly unit is protruded on the bottom surface of the third groove, the installation position of the storage device is lower than the bottom surface of the third groove, or the installation position of the storage device is flush with the bottom surface of the third groove.

[0013] In a possible implementation, the storage device includes a substrate and a communication terminal, the communication terminal is provided on the substrate, and the first conductive sheet and / or the second conductive sheet protrudes further from the bottom surface of the third groove relative to the communication terminal.

[0014] In a possible implementation, the storage device includes a substrate and a communication terminal, wherein the communication terminal is disposed on the substrate and is lower than a bottom surface of the third groove, or the communication terminal is flush with the bottom surface of the third groove.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the box includes a bracket, which is disposed on the shell and is used to mount the storage device. The mounting position of the storage device on the bracket is farther away from the upper surface of the box relative to the electrical signal trigger component.

[0016] In a possible implementation, along a direction perpendicular to the box installation direction, the width of a portion of the bracket for installing the storage device is smaller than the width of an upper surface of the box.

[0017] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a cartridge assembly that is detachably mounted on a body of an image forming apparatus, comprising a plurality of cartridges as described in any one of the first aspects.

[0018] In a possible implementation, when the box group is installed on the image forming apparatus body, the plurality of boxes are arranged in a row, and the assembly units of the plurality of boxes are arranged at different positions on the boxes.

[0019] In a third aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides an image forming device, comprising a body and a box as described in any one of the first aspects, or a body and a box group as described in any one of the second aspects.

[0020] In the embodiment of the present application, it can be ensured that the box is installed in place and / or multiple boxes are installed in the correct order, thereby improving the development quality. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, the following is a brief introduction to the drawings required for use in the embodiments. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present application. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without any creative work.

[0022] Figure 1 A structural block diagram of an image forming device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0023] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a partial structure of an image forming device body provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0024] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of a box provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0025] Figure 4A schematic structural diagram of a sheet metal part provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0026] Figure 5 A structural block diagram of another image forming device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0027] Figure 6 A structural block diagram of another image forming device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0028] Figure 7 A structural block diagram of another image forming device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0029] Figure 8 A schematic structural diagram of a conductive unit provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0030] Figure 9 A schematic structural diagram of another conductive unit provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0031] Figure 10 The embodiments of this application provide Figure 8 and Figure 9 A schematic structural diagram of a box matching the conductive unit shown;

[0032] Figure 11 A schematic structural diagram of another conductive unit provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0033] Figure 12 The embodiments of this application provide Figure 11 A schematic diagram of a partial structure of a box matching the conductive unit shown;

[0034] Figure 13 A structural block diagram of another image forming device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0035] Figures 14A-14C A schematic diagram of a process of inserting a cartridge into a receiving cavity provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0036] Figure 15 A schematic diagram of a detection method provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0037] Figure 16 A structural block diagram of an adapter provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0038] Figure 17 A structural block diagram of a box provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0039] Figure 18 A structural block diagram of another box provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0040] Figure 19A structural block diagram of another box provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0041] Figure 20 A structural block diagram of a box assembly provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0042] Figure 21 A structural block diagram of another image forming device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0043] Figure 22 A structural block diagram of another image forming device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0044] Figure 23 A structural block diagram of another image forming device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0045] Figure 24 A structural block diagram of another image forming device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0046] Figure 25 A schematic structural diagram of another image forming device provided in an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] In order to better understand the technical solution of the present application, the embodiments of the present application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0048] It should be clear that the embodiments described are only part of the embodiments of this application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative work are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0049] The terms used in the embodiments of the present application are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and are not intended to limit the present application. The singular forms "a", "an", "the" and "the" used in the embodiments of the present application and the appended claims are also intended to include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0050] It should be understood that the term "and / or" as used herein simply describes a relationship between associated objects, indicating that three possible relationships exist. For example, "A and / or B" can represent: A alone, A and B together, or B alone. Furthermore, the character " / " in this document generally indicates an "or" relationship between the associated objects.

[0051] See also Figure 1 , is a structural block diagram of an image forming device provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 1As shown, the image forming device 100 includes an image forming device body 110 (in other parts of this document, the image forming device body 110 may also be simply referred to as "body") and a box 150. For example, the box 150 can be an ink cartridge, a powder box, a powder cartridge, a toner cartridge, etc.

[0052] The image forming apparatus body 110 includes a frame 111 and a receiving cavity 112 for receiving a cartridge 150. The frame 111 is provided with a mating unit 114, and the cartridge 150 is provided with a matching assembly unit 151. The assembly unit 151 mates with the mating unit 114, so that the cartridge 150 can be installed in a predetermined position in the receiving cavity 112. In addition, a conductive unit 113 and an electric signal response unit 115 are provided on the frame 111. The electric signal response unit 115 in this application is electrically connected to the conductive unit 113 and the control device of the image forming device body 110, respectively; an electric signal trigger component 152 matching the conductive unit 113 is provided on the box 150. When the box 150 is installed to a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the electric signal trigger component 152 is electrically connected to the conductive unit 113 and triggers the electric signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal. The predetermined response signal is used to determine whether the installation of the box 150 is as expected, that is, to determine whether the box 150 is installed in place.

[0053] In the present application, when the cartridge 150 is installed in a predetermined position in the accommodating portion 112 , the cartridge 150 is installed in the image forming apparatus body 110 and can perform image forming operations normally, such as normal printing and normal supply of toner.

[0054] In one possible implementation, the predetermined response signal is a high-level signal (e.g., a 3.3V voltage signal). Specifically, when the cartridge 150 is installed in the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the electrical signal triggering component 152 is electrically connected to the conductive unit 113 and triggers the electrical signal response unit 115 to obtain a high-level signal. Based on the high-level signal, it can be determined that the installation of the cartridge 150 meets expectations, i.e., it is properly installed. Conversely, if the electrical signal response unit 115 obtains a low-level signal, it indicates that the installation of the cartridge 150 does not meet expectations, i.e., it is not properly installed.

[0055] Similarly, the predetermined response signal may also be a low-level signal (e.g., a 0V voltage signal). Specifically, when the cartridge 150 is installed in the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the electrical signal triggering component 152 is electrically connected to the conductive unit 113 and triggers the electrical signal response unit 115 to obtain a low-level signal. Based on the low-level signal, it can be determined that the installation of the cartridge 150 is as expected, i.e., it is properly installed. Conversely, if the electrical signal response unit 115 obtains a high-level signal, it indicates that the installation of the cartridge 150 is not as expected, i.e., it is not properly installed.

[0056] In the embodiment of the present application, since the electrical signal trigger component 152 can determine whether the installation of the box 150 is as expected through a predetermined response signal, the situation of development degradation or image quality degradation caused by improper installation of the box 150 can be avoided.

[0057] For ease of understanding, the above technical solution is exemplarily described below in conjunction with the specific structure of the image forming apparatus 100 .

[0058] See also Figure 2 , is a partial structural diagram of an image forming device body provided in an embodiment of the present application; see Figure 3 , is a schematic diagram of the structure of a box provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 2 and combined Figure 3 As shown, the image forming apparatus body 110 includes a frame 111 and accommodating chambers 112Y-K. The accommodating chambers 112Y-K match the structure of the cartridges 150Y-K (specifically, powder cartridges), allowing the cartridges 150Y-K to be installed in predetermined positions within the accommodating chambers 112Y-K. Furthermore, the frame 111 is provided with conductive units 113Y-K, and the cartridges 150Y-K are provided with electrical signal triggering assemblies 152Y-K that match the conductive units 113Y-K. When the cartridges 150Y-K are installed in predetermined positions within the accommodating chambers 112Y-K, the electrical signal triggering assemblies 152Y-K are electrically connected to the conductive units 113Y-K and trigger the electrical signal response unit 115 (not shown) to generate a predetermined response signal. This predetermined response signal is used to determine whether the cartridges 150Y-K are installed as expected.

[0059] like Figure 2 and combined Figure 4 As shown, in one possible implementation, the frame 111 includes a sheet metal member, on which the conductive units 113Y-K are disposed. When the sheet metal member is secured above the accommodating cavities 112Y-K, one end of the conductive units 113Y-K is exposed within the accommodating cavities 112Y-K, while the other end passes through the sheet metal member for electrical connection with other functional units of the image forming device 100 (e.g., the electrical signal response unit 115). Furthermore, the image forming device body 110 is provided with imaging component accommodating cavities 116Y-K. The structures of the imaging component accommodating cavities 116Y-K match those of the imaging components (not shown), allowing the imaging components to be installed in predetermined positions within the imaging component accommodating cavities 116Y-K.

[0060] It should be pointed out that Figure 2-Figure 4The image forming apparatus body 110 and cartridges 150Y-K shown correspond to the color image forming apparatus 100. Therefore, the image forming apparatus body 110 includes a plurality of accommodating chambers 112Y-K and a plurality of cartridges 150Y-K corresponding to the plurality of accommodating chambers 112Y-K. In this case, to avoid confusion when a user installs the plurality of cartridges 150Y-K into the plurality of accommodating chambers 112Y-K, the different accommodating chambers 112Y-K and the different cartridges 150Y-K are configured differently so that the user can only install the cartridges 150Y-K into the designated accommodating chambers 112Y-K. This will be described in detail below.

[0061] See also Figure 5 , is a structural block diagram of another image forming device provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 5 As shown, the embodiment of the present application is Figure 1 On the basis of the above, the conductive unit 113 further includes a first conductive component 1131 and a second conductive component 1132. When the box 150 is not installed to the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are electrically isolated. The electrical isolation setting here can be understood as the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 being insulated from each other, that is, having no electrical connection relationship; when the box 150 is installed to the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the electric signal trigger component 152 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 respectively (such as Figure 5 The state shown in FIG10 is shown in FIG10 ), thereby triggering the electric signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal.

[0062] Exemplarily, the first conductive component 1131 is connected to a 0V voltage, the second conductive component 1132 is connected to a 3.3V voltage, and the electric signal response unit 115 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131. It is understandable that when the cartridge 150 is not installed in the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are electrically isolated, and the electric signal response unit 115 obtains a 0V voltage; when the cartridge 150 is installed in the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the electric signal trigger component 152 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132, respectively, thereby electrically connecting the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132, and the electric signal response unit 115 obtains a 3.3V voltage. Based on the voltage change, it can be determined whether the cartridge 150 is installed in the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112.

[0063] Similarly, if the first conductive component 1131 is connected to a 3.3V voltage and the second conductive component 1132 is connected to a 0V voltage, the electrical signal response unit 115 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131. It can be understood that when the cartridge 150 is not installed in the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are electrically isolated, and the electrical signal response unit 115 obtains a 3.3V voltage; when the cartridge 150 is installed in the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the electrical signal trigger component 152 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132, respectively, thereby electrically connecting the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132, and the electrical signal response unit 115 obtains a 0V voltage. Based on this voltage change, it can be determined whether the cartridge 150 is installed in the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112.

[0064] It should be pointed out that in the embodiment of the present application, the electrical connection in "the electrical signal trigger component 152 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 respectively" can be a contact electrical connection or a non-contact electrical connection. For example, the non-contact electrical connection can be achieved through the principle of electromagnetic conversion, etc., and the embodiment of the present application does not limit this.

[0065] In a possible implementation, the frame 111 includes a top plate and side plates that are adjacent to each other, the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are disposed on the top plate, and the electrical signal response unit 115 is disposed on the side plates.

[0066] See also Figure 6 , the embodiment of the present application is Figure 5 On the basis of further description, the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are arranged on the top plate of the frame 111, the first conductive component 1131 is electrically connected to the power supply of the image forming device body 110 through a pull-up resistor, and the second conductive component 1132 is grounded; the electric signal response unit 115 is arranged on the side plate, the electric signal response unit 115 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131, and the electric signal response unit 115 is also electrically connected to the power supply of the image forming device body 110 through a pull-up resistor, and the predetermined response signal is a high voltage. A flat signal (for example, a 3.3V voltage signal) is generated. Specifically, when the box 150 is installed to a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the electric signal trigger component 152 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132. The electric signal trigger component 152 electrically connects the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 to form a short circuit. At this time, the pull-up resistor is grounded to form a low-level signal. At this time, the electric signal response unit 115 obtains a low-level signal, and it can be determined that the installation of the box 150 is as expected, that is, it is installed in place.

[0067] Similarly, in other embodiments, the second conductive component 1132 of the image forming device body 110 can also be electrically connected to the power supply unit through a pull-up resistor, and the first conductive component 1131 can be grounded. Therefore, when the electrical signal trigger component 152 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132, the electrical signal response unit obtains a high level, and it can be determined that the installation of the box 150 is as expected, that is, it is installed in place.

[0068] See also Figure 7 , is a structural block diagram of another image forming device provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 7 As shown, the embodiment of the present application is Figure 5 On the basis of the embodiment of the present invention, the electrical signal triggering component 152 further includes a first conductive sheet 1521 and a second conductive sheet 1522, wherein the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 are electrically connected. When the box 150 is installed in the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the first conductive sheet 1521 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131, and the second conductive sheet 1522 is electrically connected to the second conductive component 1132, so that the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are electrically connected, thereby triggering the electrical signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal.

[0069] It should be pointed out that in the embodiment of the present application, the electrical connection in "the first conductive sheet 1521 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131, and the second conductive sheet 1522 is electrically connected to the second conductive component 1132" can be a contact electrical connection or a non-contact electrical connection. For example, the non-contact electrical connection can be achieved through the principle of electromagnetic conversion, etc., and the embodiment of the present application does not limit this.

[0070] In one possible implementation, the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 respectively include a metal conductive sheet or a plurality of metal conductive sheets electrically connected to each other. Furthermore, when the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are respectively two metal conductive sheets electrically connected to each other, the two metal conductive sheets form a V-shape after contact, or the shapes of the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are regular shapes or irregular shapes, and the embodiments of the present application are not limited to this.

[0071] In one possible implementation, the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 respectively include one metal conductive sheet or multiple metal conductive sheets electrically connected to each other. Furthermore, when the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 are two metal conductive sheets electrically connected to each other, the two metal conductive sheets form a V-shape after contact, or the shapes of the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 are regular shapes or irregular shapes, and the embodiments of the present application do not limit this.

[0072] For ease of understanding, the conductive unit 113 and the electrical signal triggering component 152 that cooperate with each other in the above technical solution are exemplarily described below in conjunction with the specific structure of the image forming apparatus 100 .

[0073] See also Figure 8 and Figure 9 , is a schematic structural diagram of a conductive unit provided in an embodiment of the present application; see Figure 10 , provided by the embodiments of this application Figure 8 and Figure 9 The schematic diagram of the structure of the box 150 that matches the conductive unit 113 shown in FIG. Figures 8-10 As shown, in the embodiment of the present application, the conductive unit 113 includes a conductive unit bracket 1130, on which are provided electrically isolated first and second conductive components 1131 and 1132, and the first and second conductive components 1131 and 1132 are arranged on the conductive unit bracket 1130 along the left-right direction (the orientation shown in the figure). The electric signal trigger component 152 includes a first and second conductive plates 1521 and 1522 that are electrically connected, and the first and second conductive plates 1521 and 1522 are arranged on the box 150 along the left-right direction. When the box 150 is installed to a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the first conductive plate 1521 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131, and the second conductive plate 1522 is electrically connected to the second conductive component 1132, so that the first conductive component 1131 is electrically connected to the second conductive component 1132, thereby triggering the electric signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal. See. Figure 11 , which is a structural diagram of another conductive unit 113 provided in an embodiment of the present application; see Figure 12 , provided by the embodiments of this application Figure 11 The conductive unit 113 is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of the box 150. Figure 11 and Figure 12As shown, in the embodiment of the present application, the conductive unit 113 includes a conductive unit bracket 1130, on which are provided an electrically isolated first conductive component 1131 and a second conductive component 1132, and the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are arranged in the vertical direction (the orientation shown in the figure) on the conductive unit bracket 1130. The electrical signal trigger component 152 includes a first conductive sheet 1521 and a second conductive sheet 1522 that are electrically connected, and the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 are arranged in the vertical direction on the box 150. When the box 150 is installed to a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the first conductive sheet 1521 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131, and the second conductive sheet 1522 is electrically connected to the second conductive component 1132, so that the first conductive component 1131 is electrically connected to the second conductive component 1132, thereby triggering the electrical signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal.

[0074] It should be pointed out that Figures 8-12 The present invention is merely an illustrative description of the specific structure of the conductive unit 113 and the electric signal trigger component 152 in the embodiment of the present application, and should not be regarded as limiting the scope of protection of the present application. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that the conductive unit 113 and the electric signal trigger component 152 can also be set to other shapes or structures. However, as long as the condition of "when the box 150 is installed in the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the electric signal trigger component 152 is electrically connected to the conductive unit 113 and triggers the electric signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal" is met, it should fall within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0075] In a possible implementation, the assembly unit 151 on the box 150 and the matching unit 114 on the image forming apparatus body 110 may adopt mutually matching groove and protrusion structures. Figures 8-10 In the embodiment, the assembly unit 151 on the cartridge 150 includes two first protrusions 1511, with a first conductive sheet 1521 and a second conductive sheet 1522 respectively disposed on the two first protrusions 1511. Accordingly, the mating unit 114 on the image forming apparatus body 110 includes two first grooves 1141 that mate with the two first protrusions 1511, with a first conductive component 1131 and a second conductive component 1132 respectively disposed on the two first grooves 1141. The mating of the first grooves 1141 and the first protrusions 1511 allows the cartridge 150 to be installed in the accommodating cavity 112 to a predetermined position. After the cartridge 150 is installed in the accommodating cavity 112 to the predetermined position, the first conductive sheet 1521 and the first conductive component 1131 are electrically connected, and the second conductive sheet 1522 and the second conductive component 1132 are electrically connected, thereby causing the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 to be electrically connected, thereby triggering the electrical signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal.

[0076] It is understood that, based on the same principle, the assembly unit 151 on the cartridge 150 can also be configured as a second groove, and the mating unit 114 on the image forming apparatus body 110 can be configured as a second protrusion. Through the mating of the second groove and the second protrusion, the cartridge 150 can be installed in a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112. The details can be found in the description of the above embodiment, and for the sake of brevity, they are not repeated here.

[0077] See also Figure 13 , is a structural block diagram of another image forming device provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 13 As shown, the embodiment of the present application is Figure 1 On the basis of the above, the frame 111 is further provided with a protective member 117. When the box 150 is not installed in the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the protective member 117 is used to cover at least a portion of the conductive unit 113 to protect the conductive unit 113 and prevent the conductive unit 113 from being damaged by external forces. Furthermore, to improve the protective effect of the protective member 117 on the conductive unit 113, when the box 150 is not installed in the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the protective member 117 can cover the entire area of ​​the conductive unit 113 to achieve comprehensive protection for the conductive unit 113.

[0078] Corresponding to the protective component 117, an opening component 153 is also provided on the box 150. When the box 150 is installed to a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the opening component 153 can trigger the protective component 117 to release the cover of the conductive unit 113, thereby making the electrical signal trigger component 152 electrically connected to the conductive unit 113, and triggering the electrical signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal.

[0079] Please continue reading Figure 8 and Figure 9 In the embodiment of the present application, the protective component 117 includes a blocking member and an elastic member 1173 (e.g., a spring), wherein the blocking member includes a blocking portion 1171 and a matching portion 1172. The blocking portion 1171 is used to cover at least a portion of the conductive unit 113 under the elastic force of the elastic member 1173 when the cartridge 150 is not installed in the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112.

[0080] Specifically, one end of the elastic member 1173 contacts the conductive unit bracket 1130, and the other end of the elastic member 1173 contacts the blocking member. When the elastic member 1173 is not subjected to other external forces, under the elastic force of the elastic member 1173, the elastic member 1173 covers at least a portion of the conductive unit 113. In the embodiment of the present application, since the conductive unit 113 includes two conductive components (a first conductive component 1131 and a second conductive component 1132), the blocking member includes two blocking portions 1171 to cover the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132, respectively. Figure 8 The status shown.

[0081] Please continue reading Figure 10 ,and Figure 8 and Figure 9 In the embodiment of the present application, the opening member 153 includes a pushing portion 1531, which matches the mating portion 1172. When the cartridge 150 is installed in the accommodating cavity 112 to a predetermined position, the pushing portion 1531 can push the mating portion 1172, thereby driving the blocking portion 1171 to move, so that the blocking portion 1171 releases the cover from the conductive unit 113.

[0082] Specifically, the pushing portion 1531 can be an inclined rib arranged on the shell 1500 of the box 150. During the process of inserting the box 150 into the accommodating cavity 112, the width of the inclined rib gradually increases, thereby pushing the matching portion 1172, causing the elastic member 1173 to be further compressed, and driving the blocking portion 1171 to gradually release the cover on the conductive unit 113.

[0083] For ease of understanding, the movement process of the pushing portion 1531 and the matching portion 1172 cooperating with each other will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0084] See also Figures 14A-14C , is a schematic diagram of the process of inserting a box into the receiving cavity provided by an embodiment of the present application. Figure 14A In the state shown, the cartridge 150 has just been inserted into the accommodating cavity 112, the pushing portion 1531 has not yet pushed the matching portion 1172, and the blocking portion 1171 covers the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132; as the cartridge 150 is further inserted into the accommodating cavity 112, the pushing portion 1531 pushes the matching portion 1172 to the right ( Figures 14A-14C The direction shown in FIG1 moves, thereby driving the blocking portion 1171 to move to the right, and partial areas of the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are exposed, as shown in FIG1 Figure 14BAs the cartridge 150 is further inserted into the accommodating cavity 112, the pushing portion 1531 continues to push the mating portion 1172 to move to the right, thereby driving the blocking portion 1171 to continue to move to the right, and the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are completely exposed. At the same time, the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 are respectively in contact with the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 for electrical connection, as shown. Figure 14C The status shown.

[0085] Please continue reading Figure 10 In one possible implementation, a third groove 154 is provided on the upper surface of the box 150, and the assembly unit 151 and the pushing portion 1531 are disposed within the third groove 154. By arranging the assembly unit 151 and the pushing portion 1531 within the groove, the capacity of the box 150 can be increased; on the other hand, damage to the assembly unit 151 from collision with other components when the assembly unit 151 is exposed can be minimized.

[0086] Continue to read Figure 10 and Figure 12As shown, the X direction is the direction indicated by the upper surface of the box, and the Y direction is the direction indicated by the lower bottom surface of the box. The box 150 of the embodiment of the present application also includes a storage device 22, which is used to store the toner information of the box 150. The storage device 22 can be a chip of the box. Along the X direction, the storage device 22 is farther away from the upper surface of the box relative to the electric signal trigger component. Further, the storage device 22 is farther away from the upper surface of the box relative to the first conductive sheet and / or the second conductive sheet on the electric signal trigger component; the storage device 22 includes a substrate 221 and a plurality of communication terminals 222 arranged on the substrate; the box 150 is also provided with a bracket 26, which is arranged on the shell 1500 of the box 150. Further, the bracket 26 is detachably arranged on the shell 1500, or the bracket 26 is integrally formed with the shell 1500; the width of the bracket 26 is smaller than the width of the box 150, which is further described as the width of the bracket 26 is smaller than the upper surface of the box 150. width, the bracket 26 is used to install the storage device 22, one end of the storage device 22 is fixed to the bracket by screws or rivets, and the other end of the storage device 22 is fixed by a snap buckle, so that the storage device 22 is fixed to the top of the shell 1500. Further, the bracket 26 includes a mounting surface 261, and the storage device 22 is mounted on the mounting surface 261. The mounting surface 261 of the bracket is farther away from the upper surface of the box relative to the electrical signal trigger component, and the width of the mounting surface 261 of the bracket for effectively installing the storage device 22 is smaller than the width of the upper surface of the box; further, the installation position of the storage device 22 is lower than the third groove 154, or the installation position of the storage device 22 is flush with the bottom surface of the third groove 154, that is, relative to the bottom surface of the third groove 154, the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 protrude more from the bottom surface of the third groove 154 than the communication terminal 222, so as to avoid scratches on the communication terminal 222 during the installation of the box 150.

[0087] Please continue reading Figure 2-Figure 4 In the embodiment of the present application, the image forming apparatus body 110 includes four accommodating chambers 112Y-K, each of which is used to accommodate four cartridges 150Y-K corresponding to a different color. For ease of description, the four accommodating chambers 112Y-K are respectively referred to as the "yellow accommodating chamber 112Y," the "magenta accommodating chamber 112M," the "cyan accommodating chamber 112C," and the "black accommodating chamber 112K," and the four cartridges 150Y-K are respectively referred to as the "yellow cartridge 150Y," the "magenta cartridge 150M," the "cyan cartridge 150C," and the "black cartridge 150K." It can be understood that the accommodating cavities 112Y~K correspond to the boxes 150Y~K one by one. When in use, the yellow box 150Y, magenta box 150M, cyan box 150C and black box 150K need to be installed in the yellow accommodating chamber 112Y, magenta accommodating chamber 112M, cyan accommodating chamber 112C and black accommodating chamber 112K respectively in that order.

[0088] In addition, the image forming apparatus body 110 is provided with four imaging component accommodating chambers 116Y-K for accommodating four imaging components corresponding to different colors. Specifically, the four imaging component accommodating chambers 116Y-K are a yellow imaging component accommodating chamber 116Y, a magenta imaging component accommodating chamber 116M, a cyan imaging component accommodating chamber 116C, and a black imaging component accommodating chamber 116K. These four imaging component accommodating chambers 116Y-K are respectively used to accommodate a yellow imaging component, a magenta imaging component, a cyan imaging component, and a black imaging component.

[0089] It is understood that if the above-mentioned different-color cartridges 150Y-K and different-color imaging components are all installed in the correct cavities 112Y-K, then during the image formation process, the toner in the cartridges 150Y-K will be supplied to the imaging components of the corresponding colors, thereby completing the image formation process. However, in the prior art, to reduce costs, the corresponding cartridges 150Y-K are typically configured with the same structure according to standardized processing methods. Therefore, when users install cartridges 150Y-K of multiple colors, the installation order may be confused. For example, the magenta cartridge 150M is installed in the cyan cavities 112C, and the cyan cartridge 150C is installed in the magenta cavities 112M. In this case, the magenta toner will be supplied to the cyan imaging components, and the cyan toner will be supplied to the magenta imaging components, resulting in degraded development or image quality, thereby affecting the user experience.

[0090] To address the above issue, in one possible implementation, when multiple cartridges 150 need to be installed on the image forming apparatus body 110, the assembly units 151 and the pushing portions 1531 of the multiple cartridges 150 are arranged at different positions on the cartridge 150; accordingly, the mating units 114 and the mating portions 1172 within the multiple accommodating cavities 112 are arranged at different positions on the image forming apparatus body 110. This arrangement ensures that each cartridge 150 can only be installed in a designated accommodating cavity 112, thereby preventing the installation order of the multiple color cartridges 150 from being mixed up, which could lead to degraded development or image quality.

[0091] In addition, when multiple cartridges 150 need to be installed on the image forming apparatus body 110, a corresponding electric signal trigger component 152 is provided on each cartridge 150, and a corresponding conductive unit 113 is provided in each accommodating cavity 112. Figure 2-4 For details about the electric signal trigger component 152 and the conductive unit 113, please refer to the description in the above embodiment, which will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0092] See also Figure 15, is a flow chart of a detection method provided in an embodiment of the present application. The method can be applied to an image forming device 100, which is equipped with the cartridge 150 described in the above embodiment, such as Figure 15 As shown, it mainly includes the following steps.

[0093] Step S1401 : Acquire a predetermined response signal corresponding to the box 150 .

[0094] In a specific implementation, when the image forming apparatus 100 is installed with multiple cartridges 150, a predetermined response signal corresponding to each cartridge 150 can be obtained. For example, when the image forming apparatus 100 is installed with a yellow cartridge 150Y, a magenta cartridge 150M, a cyan cartridge 150C, and a black cartridge 150K, the predetermined response signals corresponding to the yellow cartridge 150Y, the magenta cartridge 150M, the cyan cartridge 150C, and the black cartridge 150K can be obtained.

[0095] In addition, when the image forming apparatus 100 is equipped with multiple cartridges 150, the predetermined response signals corresponding to different cartridges 150 may be the same or different, and this embodiment of the present application does not limit this. Of course, in a preferred embodiment, the predetermined response signals corresponding to different cartridges 150 are the same to reduce the complexity of hardware circuit or software program design.

[0096] Step S1402: Determine whether the installation of the cartridge 150 is as expected based on the predetermined response signal.

[0097] In a specific implementation, it can be determined whether a predetermined response signal is received. If the predetermined response signal is received, it is determined that the installation of the box 150 meets expectations; if the predetermined response signal is not received, it is determined that the installation of the box 150 does not meet expectations.

[0098] In addition, when a plurality of cartridges 150 are installed in the image forming apparatus 100, it is possible to determine whether the installation of the cartridge 150 is as expected based on the predetermined response signal corresponding to each cartridge 150. For example, when the image forming apparatus 100 is respectively installed with a yellow cartridge 150Y, a magenta cartridge 150M, a cyan cartridge 150C, and a black cartridge 150K, it is possible to determine whether the installation of the yellow cartridge 150Y, the magenta cartridge 150M, the cyan cartridge 150C, and the black cartridge 150K are as expected based on the predetermined response signals corresponding to the yellow cartridge 150Y, the magenta cartridge 150M, the cyan cartridge 150C, and the black cartridge 150K.

[0099] In the embodiment of the present application, a predetermined response signal is used to determine whether the installation of the box 150 is as expected, thereby avoiding the problem of development degradation or image quality degradation caused by improper installation of the box 150.

[0100] In one possible implementation, when it is determined that the installation of the box 150 is not as expected, a prompt signal indicating that the installation of the box 150 is abnormal is output to notify the user that the installation of the box 150 is abnormal, so that the user can correct the abnormal installation of the box 150. In a specific implementation, the prompt signal can be an image signal, an audio signal, or a fault indicator light, etc., and this embodiment of the application is not limited to this.

[0101] In addition, when a plurality of cartridges 150 are installed in the image forming apparatus 100 , the prompt signal corresponding to each cartridge 150 may be different so that the user can distinguish which cartridge 150 has a malfunction.

[0102] Corresponding to the above embodiment, the embodiment of the present application also provides an adapter.

[0103] See also Figure 16 , is a structural block diagram of an adapter provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 16 As shown, the adapter includes the assembly unit 151 and the electric signal trigger component 152 shown in the above embodiment.

[0104] Specifically, the adapter can be installed on the box 150, and the box 150 is detachably set on the image forming device body 110; the image forming device 100 includes a accommodating cavity 112, a conductive unit 113, a matching unit 114 and an electric signal response unit 115; the adapter includes an assembly unit 151 and an electric signal trigger component 152; the box 150 includes an installation portion for installing the assembly unit 151, and the assembly unit 151 is used to cooperate with the matching unit 114 so that the box 150 can be installed to a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112; the electric signal trigger component 152 is used to electrically connect the electric signal trigger component 152 with the conductive unit 113 when the electric signal trigger component 152 and the assembly unit 151 are installed on the box 150 and the box 150 is installed to a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, and trigger the electric signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal, and the predetermined response signal is used to determine whether the installation of the box 150 is as expected.

[0105] In a possible implementation, the predetermined response signal is a high-level signal or a low-level signal.

[0106] In one possible implementation, the conductive unit 113 includes a first conductive component 1131 and a second conductive component 1132. When the box 150 is not installed to the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are electrically isolated from each other; when the box 150 is installed with the electrical signal trigger component 152 and the assembly unit 151 and the box 150 is installed to the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the electrical signal trigger component 152 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132, respectively, to trigger the electrical signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal.

[0107] In one possible implementation, when the box 150 is installed with the electrical signal trigger component 152 and the assembly unit 151 and the box 150 is installed to a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the electrical signal trigger component 152 contacts and electrically connects with the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 respectively, triggering the electrical signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal.

[0108] In one possible implementation, the electrical signal trigger component 152 includes a first conductive sheet 1521 and a second conductive sheet 1522, and the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 are electrically connected. When the box 150 is installed with the electrical signal trigger component 152 and the assembly unit 151 and the box 150 is installed to a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the first conductive sheet 1521 is used to electrically connect to the first conductive component 1131, and the second conductive sheet 1522 is used to electrically connect to the second conductive component 1132, so that the first conductive component 1131 is electrically connected to the second conductive component 1132, thereby triggering the electrical signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal.

[0109] In one possible implementation, the electrical signal trigger component 152 includes a first conductive sheet 1521 and a second conductive sheet 1522, and the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 are electrically connected. When the box 150 is installed with the electrical signal trigger component 152 and the assembly unit 151 and installed to a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the first conductive sheet 1521 is used to contact and electrically connect with the first conductive component 1131, and the second conductive sheet 1522 is used to contact and electrically connect with the second conductive component 1132, so that the first conductive component 1131 is electrically connected with the second conductive component 1132, thereby triggering the electrical signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal.

[0110] In a possible implementation, the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 include one metal conductive sheet or multiple metal conductive sheets electrically connected to each other.

[0111] It should be pointed out that for the specific content of the embodiments of the present application, please refer to the description of the above embodiments. For the sake of brevity, they will not be repeated here.

[0112] Corresponding to the above embodiment, the embodiment of the present application further provides a box 150.

[0113] See also Figure 17 , is a structural block diagram of a box provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 17 As shown, the box 150 includes a shell 1500, and a first mounting mechanism 1551 is provided on the shell 1500. The first mounting mechanism 1551 is used to install the assembly unit 151 shown in the above embodiment.

[0114] It should be pointed out that for the specific content of the embodiments of the present application, please refer to the description of the above embodiments. For the sake of brevity, they will not be repeated here.

[0115] Corresponding to the above embodiment, the embodiment of the present application also provides another box 150.

[0116] See also Figure 18 , is a structural block diagram of another box provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 18 As shown, the box 150 includes a shell 1500, an assembly unit 151 and a second mounting mechanism 1552. The assembly unit 151 is arranged on the shell 1500 and is used to match the matching unit 114 in the accommodating cavity 112 of the image forming device 100, so that the box 150 can be installed to a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112; the second mounting mechanism 1552 is used to install the electrical signal trigger component 152 described in the above embodiment.

[0117] It should be pointed out that for the specific content of the embodiments of the present application, please refer to the description of the above embodiments. For the sake of brevity, they will not be repeated here.

[0118] Corresponding to the above embodiment, the embodiment of the present application also provides another box 150.

[0119] See also Figure 19 , is a structural block diagram of another cartridge provided in an embodiment of the present application. The cartridge 150 is detachably mounted on the image forming apparatus body 110 , which includes a receiving cavity 112 , a conductive unit 113 , a mating unit 114 , and an electrical signal response unit 115 .

[0120] like Figure 19 As shown, the box 150 includes: an assembly unit 151, which is arranged on the shell 1500 and is used to match the matching unit 114 in the accommodating cavity 112, so that the box 150 can be installed to a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112; an electric signal trigger component 152, which is arranged on the assembly unit 151 and is used to electrically connect the electric signal trigger component 152 with the conductive unit 113 when the box 150 is installed to a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, and trigger the electric signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal, and the predetermined response signal is used to determine whether the installation of the box 150 is as expected.

[0121] In a possible implementation, the predetermined response signal is a high-level signal or a low-level signal.

[0122] In one possible implementation, the conductive unit 113 includes a first conductive component 1131 and a second conductive component 1132 . When the cartridge 150 is not installed in a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112 , the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are electrically isolated from each other.

[0123] When the box 150 is installed in the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112 , the electric signal trigger component 152 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 , respectively, to trigger the electric signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal.

[0124] In one possible implementation, when the box 150 is installed to a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the electrical signal trigger component 152 contacts and electrically connects with the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 respectively, triggering the electrical signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal.

[0125] In one possible implementation, the electrical signal trigger component 152 includes a first conductive sheet 1521 and a second conductive sheet 1522, and the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 are electrically connected. When the box 150 is installed to a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the first conductive sheet 1521 is used to electrically connect with the first conductive component 1131, and the second conductive sheet 1522 is used to electrically connect with the second conductive component 1132, so that the first conductive component 1131 is electrically connected with the second conductive component 1132, thereby triggering the electrical signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal.

[0126] In one possible implementation, the electrical signal trigger component 152 includes a first conductive sheet 1521 and a second conductive sheet 1522, and the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 are electrically connected. When the box 150 is installed to a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the first conductive sheet 1521 is used to contact and electrically connect with the first conductive component 1131, and the second conductive sheet 1522 is used to contact and electrically connect with the second conductive component 1132, so that the first conductive component 1131 is electrically connected with the second conductive component 1132, thereby triggering the electrical signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal.

[0127] In a possible implementation, the first conductive plate 1521 and the second conductive plate 1522 include one metal conductive plate or a plurality of metal conductive plates electrically connected to each other.

[0128] In one possible implementation, the assembly unit 151 is a first protrusion 1511, the mating unit 114 is a first groove 1141 that matches the first protrusion 1511, and the electrical signal trigger unit is arranged on the first protrusion 1511; or, the assembly unit 151 is a second groove, the mating unit 114 is a second protrusion that matches the second groove, and the electrical signal trigger unit is arranged in the second groove.

[0129] In one possible implementation, a protective component 117 is further provided in the accommodating cavity 112; the protective component 117 is used to cover at least a portion of the conductive unit 113 to protect the conductive unit 113 when the box 150 is not installed to the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112; an opening component 153 is also provided on the shell 1500 of the box 150; the opening component 153 is used to trigger the protective component 117 to release the cover of the conductive unit 113 when the box 150 is installed to the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112.

[0130] In one possible implementation, the protective component 117 includes a blocking member and an elastic member 1173, and the blocking member includes a blocking portion 1171 and a matching portion 1172; the blocking portion 1171 is used to cover at least a portion of the conductive unit 113 under the elastic force of the elastic member 1173 when the box 150 is not installed to the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112; the opening component 153 includes a pushing portion 1531, and the pushing portion 1531 matches the matching portion 1172; the pushing portion 1531 is used to push the matching portion 1172 when the box 150 is installed to the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, thereby driving the blocking portion 1171 to move, so that the blocking portion 1171 releases the cover of the conductive unit 113.

[0131] In a possible implementation, the box 150 includes an upper surface, and the upper surface is provided with a third groove 154 for accommodating the assembly unit 151 and the pushing portion 1531 .

[0132] It should be pointed out that for the specific content of the embodiments of the present application, please refer to the description of the above embodiments. For the sake of brevity, they will not be repeated here.

[0133] Corresponding to the above embodiment, the embodiment of the present application further provides a box set.

[0134] See also Figure 20 , is a structural block diagram of a box group provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 20 As shown, the box set includes a plurality of boxes 150.

[0135] In a possible implementation, when the cartridge assembly is mounted on the image forming apparatus body 110 , the plurality of cartridges 150 are arranged in a row, and the assembly units 151 and the pushing portions 1531 of the plurality of cartridges 150 are disposed at different positions on the cartridges 150 .

[0136] In addition, the image forming apparatus body 110 is provided with four imaging component accommodating chambers 116Y-K, which are used to accommodate four imaging components corresponding to different colors. Specifically, these four imaging component accommodating chambers 116Y-K are respectively used to accommodate the yellow imaging component 116Y, the magenta imaging component 116M, the cyan imaging component 116C, and the black imaging component 116K. Specifically, each imaging component 116Y-K includes a photosensitive drum, a cleaning blade, a discharger, a charging assembly, and a developing assembly. The charging assembly uniformly charges the surface of the photosensitive drum. The exposure assembly exposes and scans the photosensitive drum with laser light, causing the uniformly charged surface of the photosensitive drum to bear an electrostatic latent image. The electrostatic latent image is developed by the developing assembly and toner and transferred to the intermediate transfer belt. After the transfer is completed, the cleaning blade removes the toner remaining on the surface of the photosensitive drum, and the discharger removes the remaining charge on the photosensitive drum, making the photosensitive drum ready for the next imaging.

[0137] It should also be noted that in the cartridge type shown in the embodiments of the present application, a photosensitive drum, a charging roller, and a developing device for storing toner are integrated to form a cartridge, and the cartridge is configured to be removable from the main body 110 of the image forming apparatus 100. Furthermore, although the cartridge is described above as an example, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, a developing cartridge including toner and a developing device but not including a photosensitive drum may be used. Alternatively, a toner cartridge without a roller may be used. Alternatively, a photosensitive drum cartridge without a developing device and integrated with a photosensitive drum and a charging roller may be used.

[0138] It should be pointed out that for the specific content of the embodiments of the present application, please refer to the description of the above embodiments. For the sake of brevity, they will not be repeated here.

[0139] Corresponding to the above embodiment, the embodiment of the present application further provides another image forming device 100 .

[0140] See also Figure 21 , is a structural block diagram of another image forming device provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 21 As shown, the image forming apparatus 100 includes an image forming apparatus body 110 and the cartridge 150 described in the above embodiment.

[0141] It should be pointed out that for the specific content of the embodiments of the present application, please refer to the description of the above embodiments. For the sake of brevity, they will not be repeated here.

[0142] Corresponding to the above embodiment, the embodiment of the present application further provides another image forming device 100 .

[0143] See also Figure 22 , is a structural block diagram of another image forming device provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 22 As shown, the image forming apparatus 100 includes an image forming apparatus body 110 and the cartridge assembly described in the above embodiment.

[0144] It should be pointed out that for the specific content of the embodiments of the present application, please refer to the description of the above embodiments. For the sake of brevity, they will not be repeated here.

[0145] Corresponding to the above embodiment, the embodiment of the present application further provides another image forming device 100 .

[0146] See also Figure 23 , is a structural block diagram of another image forming device provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 23 As shown, the image forming device 100 includes: an image forming device body 110, the image forming device body 110 includes a frame 111 and a accommodating cavity 112, the accommodating cavity 112 is used to accommodate the box 150, and the accommodating cavity 112 is provided with a matching unit 114, and the matching unit 114 is provided with a first conductive component 1131 and a second conductive component 1132; an electric signal response unit 115, the electric signal response unit 115 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131, and is used to obtain a predetermined response signal when the box 150 is installed to a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, and to judge whether the installation of the box 150 is as expected based on the predetermined response signal.

[0147] In one possible implementation, when the box 150 is not installed to the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are in an electrically isolated state; when the box 150 is installed to the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are in an electrically connected state, and the electrical signal response unit 115 is used to obtain a predetermined response signal and determine whether the installation of the box 150 is as expected based on the predetermined response signal.

[0148] In a possible implementation, the frame 111 includes a top plate and side plates that are adjacent to each other, the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are disposed on the top plate, and the electrical signal response unit 115 is disposed on the side plates.

[0149] In one possible implementation, a protective component 117 is further provided in the accommodating cavity 112, and the protective component 117 includes a blocking member, which includes a blocking portion 1171 and a matching portion 1172. The blocking portion 1171 is used to cover at least part of the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 when the box 150 is not installed to the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, and the matching portion 1172 is used to be pushed by the pushing portion 1531 on the box 150 when the box 150 is installed to the predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, and the matching portion 1172 is pushed, thereby driving the blocking portion 1171 to move, so that the blocking portion 1171 opens.

[0150] In one possible implementation, the protective component 117 also includes an elastic member 1173. When the box 150 is installed to a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity 112, the elastic member 1173 is compressed during the movement of the blocking portion 1171. When the box 150 is removed from the accommodating cavity 112, the blocking member moves under the action of the elastic force to a position covering at least a portion of the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132.

[0151] It should be pointed out that for the specific content of the embodiments of the present application, please refer to the description of the above embodiments. For the sake of brevity, they will not be repeated here.

[0152] Corresponding to the above embodiment, the embodiment of the present application further provides another image forming device 100 .

[0153] See also Figure 24 , is a structural block diagram of another image forming device provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 24 As shown, the image forming apparatus 100 includes an electric signal response unit 115 , and the electric signal response unit 115 is used to execute the detection method described in the above method embodiment.

[0154] It should be pointed out that for the specific content of the embodiments of the present application, please refer to the description of the above embodiments. For the sake of brevity, they will not be repeated here.

[0155] For ease of understanding, the image forming device is exemplarily described below in conjunction with the specific structure of an image forming device.

[0156] See also Figure 25 , is a structural diagram of another image forming device provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 25As shown, the image forming apparatus 100 is provided with four process cartridges 6Y, 6M, 6C, and 6K that generate yellow, magenta, cyan, and black toner images (referred to as Y, M, C, and K toner images). The process cartridges use Y, M, C, and K toners having different colors as image forming substrates, respectively. However, the four process cartridges have the same structure and can be replaced with new ones each time the toners are replenished. The process cartridge 6Y that generates the Y toner image is regarded as a representative example of the four process cartridges. Figure 25 As shown, the process cartridge 6Y includes a drum-shaped photoconductor 1Y, a drum cleaning device 2Y, a discharger (not shown), a charging device 4Y, and a developing device 5Y. The process cartridge 6Y is detachably mounted on the main body of the image forming apparatus 100, and these components can be replaced at a time. The above-mentioned charging device 4Y uniformly charges the surface of the photoconductor 1Y that is rotated in a clockwise direction by a driving unit (not shown). Exposure scanning is performed by laser L, and thereby the surface of the uniformly charged photoconductor 1Y carries an electrostatic latent image. The Y electrostatic latent image is developed by the developing device 5Y using Y toner for the Y toner image. And, intermediate transfer is performed on the intermediate transfer belt 8. After the intermediate transfer process, the drum cleaning device 2Y removes the toner remaining on the surface of the photoconductor 1Y. In addition, the discharger discharges the residual charge of the photoconductor 1Y after cleaning. The surface of the photoconductor 1Y is initialized by discharge, which prepares for the subsequent imaging. Likewise, in the other process cartridges 6M, 6C, and 6K, M, C, and K toner images are similarly formed on the photoconductors 1M, 1C, and 1K, and are intermediately transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 8. The exposure device 7 is provided at Figure 25, shown in the figure, is located in the lower portion of each of the process cartridges 6Y, 6M, 6C, and 6K. An exposure device 7, serving as a latent image forming unit, irradiates each photoconductor in the process cartridges 6Y, 6M, 6C, and 6K with laser light L emitted based on image information. This exposure of each photoconductor with the laser light L occurs. During exposure, electrostatic latent images of Y, M, C, and K are formed on the photoconductors 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K. Furthermore, the exposure device 7 irradiates the photoconductors through two or more optical lenses and reflective mirrors, scanning the laser light (L) emitted from the light source with a polygonal mirror rotated by a rotary drive motor. A paper feed unit including a paper receiving cassette is disposed within the bottom portion of the exposure device 7. A paper feed roller 27 and a resist roller pair 28 are provided within the paper receiving cassette. A large amount of copy paper P is stored in the paper receiving cassette, and the paper feed roller 27 contacts the copy paper P at the top of the large amount of copy paper. When the paper feed roller 27 rotates counterclockwise by a drive unit (not shown), the top copy paper P is conveyed to a position between the rollers of the resist roller pair 28. Although the counter roller pair 28 is driven to rotate to clamp the copy paper P, the rotational drive is then stopped. The copy paper P is then transported to the secondary transfer nip by the counter roller pair 28 at the appropriate time. In the above-mentioned paper feed unit, the combination of the paper feed roller 27 and the counter roller pair 28 (timing roller pair) constitutes a transport unit. This transport unit transports the copy paper P from the paper receiving cassette to the secondary transfer nip. An intermediate transfer unit 15, which performs intermediate image transfer using an endless intermediate transfer belt 8 (intermediate transfer medium), is located above each of the process cartridges 6Y, 6M, 6C, and 6K. This intermediate transfer unit 15 is equipped with four primary transfer bias rollers 9Y, 9M, 9C, and 9K, a cleaning device 10, and the intermediate transfer belt 8. Furthermore, the intermediate transfer unit 15 includes a secondary transfer support roller 12, a cleaning support roller 13, a tension roller, and the like. As the intermediate transfer belt 8 rotates counterclockwise, the endless transfer is performed by the rotational drive of at least one of these three rollers. The primary transfer bias rollers 9Y, 9M, 9C, and 9K place the intermediate transfer belt 8, which is performing an endless transfer, between the photoconductors 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K in this manner, and form a primary transfer nip, respectively. During this transfer, the toner presses the transfer bias member of the opposite polarity (e.g., positive) toward the back side (inner surface of the loop) of the intermediate transfer belt 8. All rollers except the primary transfer bias rollers 9Y, 9M, 9C, and 9K are electrically grounded. As the endless transfer proceeds, the intermediate transfer belt 8 passes through the Y, M, C, and K primary transfer nips one by one, and the Y, M, C, and K toner images of the photoconductors 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K are superimposed and transferred in one stage. As a result, a toner image of four superimposed colors (referred to as a 4-color toner image) is formed on the intermediate transfer belt 8. With the endless transfer, the intermediate transfer belt 8 undergoes a process of passing through the Y, M, C and K primary transfer nips one by one, and the Y, M, C, K toner images of the photoconductors 1Y, 1M, 1C and 1K are superimposed and are primarily transferred.As a result, a toner image of four colors superimposed on each other (referred to as a 4-color toner image) is formed on the intermediate transfer belt 8. In the secondary transfer nip, the copy paper P is inserted between the intermediate transfer belt 8 and the secondary transfer roller 19, where the surface transfer of the copy paper P is carried out in the forward direction, and the above-mentioned counter roller pair 28 side is conveyed in the opposite direction. When the copy paper P sent out from the secondary transfer nip passes between the rollers of the fixing device 20, the surface-transferred 4-color toner image is fixed by heat and pressure. Subsequently, the copy paper P is conveyed through the discharge roller pair 29 and discharged to the outside of the image forming device. A stacking portion 30 is provided on the upper surface of the main portion of the image forming device. The copy paper P discharged from the discharge roller pair 29 to the outside of the image forming device is stacked one by one on the stacking portion 30.

[0157] Corresponding to the above embodiment, an embodiment of the present application further provides a computer program product, which includes executable instructions. When the executable instructions are executed on a computer, the computer executes some or all of the steps in the above method embodiment.

[0158] In the embodiments of the present application, "at least one" refers to one or more, and "more" refers to two or more. "And / or" describes the association relationship of associated objects, indicating that three relationships may exist. For example, A and / or B can represent the existence of A alone, the existence of A and B at the same time, and the existence of B alone. Among them, A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the previous and next associated objects are in an "or" relationship. "At least one of the following" and similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b and c can be represented by: a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, or abc, where a, b, c can be single or multiple.

[0159] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the various units and algorithm steps described in the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented using a combination of electronic hardware, computer software, and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are performed in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Professionals and technicians can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0160] Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the convenience and brevity of description, the specific working processes of the systems, devices and units described above can refer to the corresponding processes in the aforementioned method embodiments and will not be repeated here.

[0161] In the several embodiments provided in this application, if any function is implemented in the form of a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application is essentially or the part that contributes to the prior art or the part of the technical solution can be embodied in the form of a software product, and the computer software product is stored in a storage medium, including a number of instructions for enabling a computer device (which can be a personal computer, a server, or a network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the method described in each embodiment of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes: U disk, mobile hard disk, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), disk or optical disk, and other media that can store program code.

[0162] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present application. Any person skilled in the art may easily conceive of variations or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in this application, and such variations or substitutions shall be within the scope of protection of this application. The scope of protection of this application shall be subject to the scope of protection of the claims.

Claims

1. A cartridge detachably mounted on an image forming apparatus body, wherein: The box includes: a housing, wherein a developer accommodating chamber is provided in the housing, and the developer accommodating chamber is used to accommodate the developer; an assembly unit, the assembly unit being provided on the housing and being adapted to mate with a matching unit in the accommodating chamber of the image forming device so that the cartridge can be mounted to a predetermined position in the accommodating chamber; an electric signal trigger component, the electric signal trigger component being disposed on the assembly unit and configured to electrically connect with the conductive unit and trigger the electric signal response unit to obtain a predetermined response signal when the cartridge is installed in a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity, wherein the predetermined response signal is used to determine whether the installation of the cartridge is as expected; A storage device is provided in the housing, and an installation position of the storage device is further away from the upper surface of the box relative to the electric signal trigger component.

2. The box according to claim 1, characterized in that The electric signal triggering component includes a first conductive sheet and a second conductive sheet, the first conductive sheet and the second conductive sheet being electrically connected. When the cartridge is installed in a predetermined position in the accommodating cavity, the first conductive sheet is used to electrically connect to the first conductive component of the image forming device, and the second conductive sheet is used to electrically connect to the second conductive component of the image forming device, so that the first conductive component and the second conductive component are electrically connected, thereby triggering the electric signal response unit to obtain the predetermined response signal. The storage device is installed at a position farther away from the upper surface of the box than the first conductive plate and / or the second conductive plate.

3. The box according to claim 1, characterized in that A third groove is provided on the upper surface of the box, the assembly unit is protruded from the bottom surface of the third groove, the installation position of the storage device is lower than the bottom surface of the third groove, or the installation position of the storage device is flush with the bottom surface of the third groove.

4. The box according to claim 3, characterized in that The storage device includes a substrate and a communication terminal, wherein the communication terminal is arranged on the substrate, and the first conductive sheet and / or the second conductive sheet protrudes further from the bottom surface of the third groove relative to the communication terminal.

5. The box according to claim 3, characterized in that The storage device includes a substrate and a communication terminal. The communication terminal is arranged on the substrate and is lower than the bottom surface of the third groove, or the communication terminal is flush with the bottom surface of the third groove.

6. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein The box includes a bracket, which is arranged on the shell and is used to install the storage device. The installation position of the storage device on the bracket is farther away from the upper surface of the box relative to the electric signal trigger component.

7. The box according to claim 6, characterized in that Along a direction perpendicular to the box installation direction, a width of a portion of the bracket for installing the storage device is smaller than a width of an upper surface of the box.

8. A cartridge assembly detachably mounted on a main body of an image forming apparatus, characterized in that: Comprising a plurality of cassettes according to any one of claims 1-7.

9. The box set according to claim 8, characterized in that: When the cartridge set is mounted on the image forming apparatus body, the plurality of cartridges are arranged in a row, and the assembly units of the plurality of cartridges are arranged at different positions on the cartridges.

10. An image forming apparatus, characterized in that: The invention comprises a body and a box according to any one of claims 1 to 7, or a body and a box set according to any one of claims 8 to 9.

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