A copier toner cartridge that is easy to install

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of toner cartridge, and particularly relates to a copying machine toner cartridge convenient to install, a limiting device comprising a synchronous tooth, a synchronous wheel, a rotating shaft and a locking assembly; when the toner cartridge slides into or slides out of an assembly space, the synchronous tooth can drive the synchronous wheel, the rotating shaft and the first friction disc to rotate, so that the first friction disc and the second friction disc can be switched between a locking state and an unlocking state; in the locking state, the first friction disc is pressed against the second friction disc to provide locking force for the toner cartridge; in the unlocking state, the first friction disc and the second friction disc are separated from each other to release the locking of the toner cartridge, and the beneficial effect is that the limiting device not only plays a limiting role, but also utilizes the mutual meshing of the synchronous tooth and the synchronous wheel to further ensure the accuracy of the sliding direction and the sliding position of the toner cartridge, and also improves the stability of the toner cartridge in the sliding process, thereby facilitating the disassembly and assembly of the toner cartridge; the whole assembly process is smooth and continuous, and the generation of impact force is avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of toner cartridges, and more particularly to a copier toner cartridge that is easy to install. Background Technology

[0002] In image-forming equipment such as copiers and laser printers, the toner cartridge, as a key consumable, plays a crucial role in delivering toner to the photosensitive drum. The stability and ease of its installation directly impact the equipment's efficiency and user experience. Therefore, achieving rapid installation, stable locking, and safe disassembly of the toner cartridge is an important technological direction in the design of current office printing equipment.

[0003] Traditional toner cartridge installation methods typically employ mechanical locking mechanisms or elastic support structures for fixation. For example, some copiers have limit blocks or springs to restrict toner cartridge movement; once the cartridge slides into place, the limiting component locks it in place to prevent loosening. While these structures meet basic limiting requirements to a certain extent, they still have the following problems in practical applications: The installation process is not smooth enough: Traditional limiting structures often require the toner cartridge to apply a large pushing force during the sliding process to overcome the elastic resistance of the limiting component, which causes users to press or even hit the cartridge during installation, which can easily damage the internal structure of the toner cartridge or the device.

[0004] The toner cartridge is prone to tilting during installation: Traditional limiting structures only have a limiting function and do not have guiding and stabilizing functions, which often leads to the problem of tilting and jamming during toner cartridge installation. If the installer does not find out in time, it may cause the interface connection of the toner cartridge to fail. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Technical problems to be solved In view of the above-mentioned shortcomings and deficiencies of the prior art, the present invention provides a copier toner cartridge that is easy to install, which solves the technical problems of the toner cartridge installation process being not smooth enough and the installation being prone to tilting in the prior art.

[0006] Technical solution

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the main technical solutions adopted by the present invention include: In a first aspect, the present invention provides a copier toner cartridge that is easy to install, suitable for assembly into a copier via a limiting device, wherein an assembly space for the toner cartridge is formed on the copier, and the toner cartridge can be slidably installed to the bottom of the assembly space. The limiting device includes a synchronizing gear, a synchronizing wheel, a rotating shaft, and a locking assembly. The rotating shaft is axially fixed and rotatably connected to the bottom wall of the assembly space along the length of the toner cartridge. The synchronizing wheel is fixedly connected to one end of the rotating shaft, and the synchronizing gear is fixedly connected to the toner cartridge. The locking assembly includes a first friction disc and a second friction disc. When the toner cartridge slides into or out of the assembly space, the synchronizing gear can drive the synchronizing wheel, the rotating shaft, and the first friction disc to rotate, allowing the first and second friction discs to switch between a locked state and an unlocked state. In the locked state, the first friction disc presses against the second friction disc to provide a locking force to the toner cartridge. In the unlocked state, the first and second friction discs separate to release the toner cartridge from locking.

[0008] In one technical solution of the present invention, the limiting device is configured as two symmetrical sets to form two symmetrical and balanced force-bearing parts on both sides of the powder box.

[0009] In one embodiment of the present invention, the limiting device further includes a first pin and a second pin. The opposite ends of the rotating shaft and the first pin respectively form an axially slidingly connected outer sleeve and a guide rod, and the relative circumferential positions of the outer sleeve and the guide rod are fixed. The other end of the first pin is fixedly connected to a first friction disc, and the first pin is axially threaded onto the side wall of the assembly space. The second pin is supported on the side wall of the assembly space in a circumferentially fixed and axially limited manner, and the second friction disc is fixedly connected to the end of the second pin near the first friction disc.

[0010] In one technical solution of the present invention, a spring is provided between the two second friction discs of the two sets of limiting devices to maintain an elastic force that keeps the two second friction discs moving away from each other.

[0011] In one embodiment of the present invention, a slide is formed on the side wall of the assembly space to guide the powder cartridge to the bottom of the assembly space. The powder cartridge includes a body and two ends fixedly connected to the body, each end being a slider that matches the slide. The slide includes an inclined section and a horizontal section connected to each other, the horizontal section corresponding to the bottom position of the assembly space and the inclined section corresponding to the upper position of the assembly space.

[0012] In one technical solution of the present invention, the slider is a rhombus-shaped block, and two opposite sidewalls of the rhombus-shaped block are parallel to the inclined section, while the other two opposite sidewalls are parallel to the horizontal section.

[0013] In one embodiment of the present invention, a synchronizing gear is fixedly connected to the bottom wall of the powder cartridge. When the powder cartridge slides to the horizontal section, the synchronizing gear can maintain engagement with the synchronizing wheel. When the synchronizing gear engages with the synchronizing wheel and slides with the powder cartridge towards the bottom of the assembly space, the process includes a pre-tightening zone and a locking zone. In the pre-tightening zone, the first friction disc gradually approaches the second friction disc. In the locking zone, the first friction disc remains in close contact with the second friction disc to switch to and maintain a locked state.

[0014] In one embodiment of the present invention, both the first and second friction discs are provided with rotating ridges. Within the locking range, the first and second friction discs can rotate relative to each other to emit a warning sound and provide tactile feedback.

[0015] In one technical solution of the present invention, a positioning ring groove is provided axially on the synchronous pulley, and a positioning strip is provided on the synchronous teeth that can slide and cooperate with the positioning ring groove.

[0016] Beneficial effects

[0017] The beneficial effects of the present invention are: the toner cartridge of the present invention is easy to install. The limiting device not only plays a limiting role, but also uses the mutual meshing of the synchronous teeth and the synchronous wheel to further ensure the accuracy of the sliding direction and position of the toner cartridge, and also improves the stability of the toner cartridge during the sliding process, thereby facilitating the disassembly and assembly of the toner cartridge.

[0018] Furthermore, by locking the toner cartridge through friction, compared to the existing method of locking the toner cartridge through limiting components, there is no need to apply impact force to the toner cartridge during the installation process so that the limiting components can play a limiting role. Instead, external force can be applied continuously. The entire assembly process is smooth and continuous, avoiding the generation of impact force and reducing the negative impact of impact force during the installation and removal of the toner cartridge on the lifespan of the copier and the toner cartridge. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the powder box and slide of the present invention; Figure 2 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the powder box sliding according to the present invention; Figure 3 This is the second schematic diagram of the powder box sliding mechanism of the present invention; Figure 4 This is the third schematic diagram of the structure of the powder box during sliding according to the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the powder box and limiting device of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the limiting device of the present invention; Figure 7 For the present invention Figure 5 A magnified schematic diagram of the partial structure at point A in the middle; Figure 8 For the present invention Figure 5 A magnified schematic diagram of the local structure at point B; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the rotating rib structure of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the synchronizing teeth and positioning strips of the present invention.

[0021] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures 100: Assembly space; 200: Toner cartridge; 201: Main body; 202: Slider; 1: Limiting device; 11: Synchronizing gear; 11a: Positioning bar; 12: Synchronizing pulley; 12a: Positioning ring groove; 13: Rotating shaft; 13a: Outer sleeve; 14: Locking assembly; 141: First friction disc; 142: Second friction disc; 15: First pin; 15a: Guide rod; 16: Second pin; 17: Spring; 2: Slide; 21: Inclined section; 22: Horizontal section. Detailed Implementation

[0022] To better explain and facilitate understanding of this invention, the following description is provided in conjunction with the appendix. Figures 1-10 The present invention will be described in detail through specific embodiments. In this document, directional terms such as "upper" and "lower" are used interchangeably with other directional terms. Figure 1 and Figure 5 The orientation is used as a reference.

[0023] Example 1:

[0024] Reference Figures 1-10An embodiment of the present invention provides a copier toner cartridge that is easy to install, suitable for assembly into a copier via a limiting device 1. An assembly space 100 for the toner cartridge 200 is formed on the copier, and the toner cartridge 200 can be slidably installed to the bottom of the assembly space 100. The limiting device 1 includes a synchronizing gear 11, a synchronizing wheel 12, a rotating shaft 13, and a locking assembly 14. The rotating shaft 13 is axially fixed along the length of the body 201 and rotatably connected to the bottom wall of the assembly space 100 along the length of the toner cartridge 200. The synchronizing wheel 12 is fixedly connected to one end of the rotating shaft 13, and the synchronizing gear 11 is fixedly connected to the toner cartridge 200. On the cartridge 200; the locking assembly 14 includes a first friction disc 141 and a second friction disc 142; when the cartridge 200 slides into or out of the assembly space 100, the synchronizing gear 11 can drive the synchronizing wheel 12, the rotating shaft 13 and the first friction disc 141 to rotate, so that the first friction disc 141 and the second friction disc 142 can switch between a locked state and an unlocked state; in the locked state, the first friction disc 141 presses against the second friction disc 142 to provide a locking force for the cartridge 200; in the unlocked state, the first friction disc 141 and the second friction disc 142 separate from each other to release the locking of the cartridge 200.

[0025] In this embodiment, the powder cartridge 200 achieves a linkage between sliding installation and self-locking function through the limiting device 1, thereby improving installation convenience and usage stability. Specifically, when the powder cartridge 200 slides along the assembly space 100, the synchronous gear 11 and the synchronous wheel 12 form a transmission engagement, driving the rotating shaft 13 to rotate, thereby driving the first friction disk 141 to generate rotational motion. At the same time, the relative position between the first friction disk 141 and the second friction disk 142 changes. Depending on the direction of the powder cartridge 200 sliding in or out, the gap between the two friction disks decreases or increases accordingly, thereby generating friction to achieve a self-locking or unlocking state.

[0026] When the toner cartridge 200 slides to the designated position, due to the linkage between the synchronizing gear 11 and the synchronizing wheel 12, the first friction disc 141 rotates with the rotating shaft 13 and gradually approaches and presses against the second friction disc 142. The friction between the two gradually increases, thus preventing the toner cartridge 200 from shifting due to vibration during operation, thereby switching to the locked state. Conversely, when the toner cartridge 200 needs to be removed, the operator only needs to apply a certain sliding force to make the synchronizing gear 11 drive the synchronizing wheel 12 in the opposite direction, thereby moving the first friction disc 141 away from the second friction disc 142, thus releasing the friction force, completing the unlocking action, and switching to the unlocked state.

[0027] The limiting device 1 not only serves as a limiting device, but also, through the meshing of the synchronous gear 11 and the synchronous wheel 12, further ensures the accuracy of the sliding direction and position of the powder box 200, and improves the stability of the powder box 200 during the sliding process, thereby facilitating the disassembly and assembly of the powder box 200.

[0028] Furthermore, by locking the toner cartridge 200 through friction, compared to the existing method of locking the toner cartridge 200 through limiting components, there is no need to apply impact force to the toner cartridge 200 during the installation process so that the limiting components can play a limiting role. Instead, external force can be applied continuously. The entire assembly process is smooth and continuous, avoiding the generation of impact force and reducing the negative impact of impact force during the disassembly and assembly of the toner cartridge 200 on the lifespan of the copier and the toner cartridge 200.

[0029] Example 2:

[0030] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 In addition to possessing all the technical solutions of the above embodiments, the embodiments of the present invention further possess the following technical solutions: The limiting device 1 is configured as two symmetrical sets to form two symmetrical and balanced force-bearing parts on both sides of the powder box 200.

[0031] In this embodiment, two sets of symmetrical limiting devices 1 are set on both sides of the toner cartridge 200, which can provide two symmetrical and balanced force-bearing parts for the toner cartridge 200 during installation and use. This not only improves the stability of the toner cartridge 200 installation, but also ensures the reliability during the operation of the copier.

[0032] Each set of limiting devices 1 includes a synchronizing gear 11, a synchronizing wheel 12, a rotating shaft 13, and a locking assembly 14. The advantage of this symmetrical design is that it ensures that the force on the toner cartridge 200 is evenly distributed when it slides into or out of the assembly space 100, avoiding problems such as unilateral tilting or jamming. In addition, it effectively disperses the vibration and stress generated during the operation of the copier, reducing the risk of wear or damage caused by uneven force and extending the service life of the equipment.

[0033] Example 3:

[0034] Reference Figures 5-8 In addition to possessing all the technical solutions of the above embodiments, the embodiments of the present invention further possess the following technical solutions: The limiting device 1 also includes a first pin 15 and a second pin 16. The opposite ends of the rotating shaft 13 and the first pin 15 respectively form an axially sliding sleeve 13a and a guide rod 15a, and the relative positions of the sleeve 13a and the guide rod 15a in the circumferential direction are fixed. The other end of the first pin 15 is fixedly connected to the first friction disc 141, and the first pin 15 is axially threaded to the side wall of the assembly space 100. The second pin 16 can be supported on the side wall of the assembly space 100 in a circumferentially fixed and axially limited manner.

[0035] Specifically, a connecting seat is provided on the side wall of the assembly space 100. The first pin 15 is threadedly connected to the connecting seat, and the second pin 16 is axially slidably connected to the limiting block, so that the second pin 16 can pass through the corresponding connecting seat. A flat key is provided on the second pin 16 so that the second pin 16 can be axially slidably connected to the connecting seat. Alternatively, the cross section of the second pin 16 can be set to a rectangle so that it slides with the corresponding connecting seat.

[0036] In this embodiment, by introducing the first pin 15 and the second pin 16, and combining the sliding connection between the outer sleeve 13a and the guide rod 15a, a linkage system with precise guidance, stable transmission and reliable locking capability is constructed.

[0037] One end of the first rotating shaft 13 meshes with the synchronous pulley 12 via the synchronous gear 11 to achieve power transmission; the other end is provided with a sleeve 13a structure; correspondingly, the end of the first pin 15 near the first rotating shaft 13 is provided with a guide rod 15a that can be inserted into the sleeve 13a, and the two form an axial sliding connection, that is, the guide rod 15a can freely extend and retract axially within the sleeve 13a; the circumferential relative position between the sleeve 13a and the guide rod 15a is fixed, which can be achieved by keyway fit, polygonal cross section or spline structure to prevent relative rotation between the two; The other end of the first pin 15 is fixedly connected to the first friction disc 141, and the first pin 15 is assembled to the side wall of the assembly space 100 by means of a threaded connection. This connection method allows the extension length of the first pin 15 to be adjusted by the thread when it is subjected to axial force, thereby controlling the position of the first friction disc 141; the second pin 16 is supported on the side wall of the assembly space 100 and participates in the locking action as an auxiliary support component; When the toner cartridge 200 is pushed into the copier's assembly space 100, its synchronizing gear 11 drives the synchronizing wheel 12 to rotate, which in turn drives the first rotating shaft 13 to rotate. Since the first rotating shaft 13 and the first pin 15 are connected by an outer sleeve 13a-guide rod 15a structure and are circumferentially fixed, the rotation of the first rotating shaft 13 will drive the first pin 15 to rotate together. The first pin 15 is connected to the side wall by threads, so its rotation will be converted into axial movement, pushing the first friction disk 141 toward the second friction disk 142.

[0038] Meanwhile, the second friction disc 142 is fixed on the second pin 16, and the second pin 16 can be supported on the side wall of the assembly space 100 in a circumferentially fixed and axially limited manner, thus forming a stable friction contact surface between the two friction discs, thereby realizing the self-locking function.

[0039] When the powder box 200 needs to be removed, the user pulls the powder box 200 to slide it out of the assembly space 100. This process drives the synchronous gear 11 and synchronous wheel 12 in the reverse direction, causing the first rotating shaft 13 to reverse and drive the first pin shaft 15 to rotate in the reverse direction, thereby moving the first friction disk 141 away from the second friction disk 142 and releasing the locked state.

[0040] By combining the threaded connection with the outer sleeve 13a and guide rod 15a structure, precise control of the position of the first friction disc 141 is achieved, ensuring the stability and consistency of the locking action. The circumferential fixing structure of the outer sleeve 13a and guide rod 15a enhances the rigidity of the overall system, while the axial sliding characteristics ensure smooth operation and improve response speed. The pin structure has a high degree of modularity, is easy to disassemble and replace, and reduces the later maintenance cost.

[0041] Example 4:

[0042] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 In addition to possessing all the technical solutions of the above embodiments, the embodiments of the present invention further possess the following technical solutions: A spring 17 is provided between the two second friction discs 142 of the two sets of limiting devices 1 to maintain an elastic force that keeps the two friction discs moving away from each other.

[0043] Spring 17 can regulate the clamping force between the first friction disc 141 and the second friction disc 142 and keep it within a certain range. Specifically, when the first friction disc 141 and the second friction disc 142 are in contact, as the rotating shaft 13 continues to rotate, the first friction disc 141 and the second friction disc 142 will slide in the direction that compresses the spring 17. At this time, the spring 17 will gradually increase the elastic force on the second friction disc 142. Under the force relationship of action and reaction, the clamping force between the first friction disc 141 and the second friction disc 142 will also gradually increase, thereby ensuring the reliability of the first friction disc 141 and the second friction disc 142 after switching to the locked state. Furthermore, by setting the spring 17 as an equal diameter and equidistant spring 17, the clamping force of the spring 17 can increase very linearly, thereby further improving the smoothness of the locking process.

[0044] A single spring 17 can provide elastic force to the two sets of second friction discs 142, simplifying the overall structure of the device when setting two sets of limiting devices 1 and reducing costs.

[0045] It should be noted that in the unlocked state, when the spring 17 is extended to its limit position, it is necessary to ensure that the first friction disc 141 and the second friction disc 142 can remain separated from each other. For example, a limiting flange can be provided on the second friction disc 142.

[0046] The preload provided by spring 17 ensures that the clamping force between the first friction disc 141 and the second friction disc 142 is maintained within a certain range, neither too large, which would make the toner cartridge 200 difficult to assemble, nor too small, which would make the toner cartridge 200 unreliable to lock. Furthermore, the spring 17 provides a noticeable tactile change during the locking and unlocking process, helping the user to determine if the installation is in place.

[0047] Example 5:

[0048] Reference Figures 1-5 In addition to possessing all the technical solutions of the above embodiments, the embodiments of the present invention further possess the following technical solutions: A slide 2 is formed on the side wall of the assembly space 100 to guide the powder box 200 to the bottom of the assembly space 100; the powder box 200 includes a body 201 and two ends fixedly connected to the body 201, and both are provided with sliders 202 that match the slide 2; the slide 2 includes an inclined section 21 and a horizontal section 22, the horizontal section 22 corresponds to the bottom position of the assembly space 100, and the inclined section 21 corresponds to the upper position of the assembly space 100.

[0049] In this embodiment, the slide 2 is arranged along the side wall of the assembly space 100 and has two parts: an inclined section 21 and a horizontal section 22. The inclined section 21 is located in the upper part of the assembly space 100 and its direction is downward inclined from the outside to the inside, so that the toner cartridge 200 is subjected to a natural guiding force when it is initially inserted, which helps the user to smoothly insert the toner cartridge 200. The horizontal section 22 is located in the bottom area of ​​the assembly space 100 and is smoothly connected to the end of the inclined section 21. It is used to receive the toner cartridge 200 and keep it in a stable horizontal position, ensuring that the toner cartridge 200 is accurately connected to the toner supply mechanism inside the copier after it is fully in place.

[0050] Each side end of the powder box 200 body 201 is provided with a slider 202, which cooperates with the slide 2 to form a sliding pair; the slider 202 can be made of wear-resistant material, such as engineering plastic or metal-coated composite material; the fit clearance between the slider 202 and the slide 2 should be controlled within a reasonable range to ensure stability during the sliding process, and not to cause jamming due to excessive tightness.

[0051] When the user pushes the powder cartridge 200 into the assembly space 100, the slider 202 first enters the inclined section 21 of the slide 2. Under the influence of gravity and guidance, it automatically tilts and slides downwards, guiding the powder cartridge 200 gradually closer to the bottom of the assembly space 100. As the powder cartridge 200 continues to advance, the slider 202 transitions from the inclined section 21 to the horizontal section 22. At this point, the powder cartridge 200's posture tends to be horizontal, and the limiting device 1 begins to work. The synchronous gear 11 drives the synchronous wheel 12 and the first rotating shaft 13 to rotate, triggering the first friction disc 141 in the locking assembly 14 to approach the second friction disc 142, ultimately completing the self-locking action. In the unlocked state, when the user pulls the powder cartridge 200 outwards, the slider 202 moves in the opposite direction along the slide 2, first passing through the horizontal section 22 and then entering the inclined section 21. At this time, due to the design of the inclined section 21, the front end of the powder cartridge 200 will be slightly raised, reducing the contact resistance with the bottom of the assembly space 100 and further improving the convenience of the removal operation.

[0052] The inclined section 21 effectively guides the toner cartridge 200 into the assembly space 100, avoiding installation difficulties caused by angle deviation. The low-friction design between the slider 202 and the slide rail 2 improves the operating feel and reduces the force required by the user. The horizontal section 22 provides a precise positioning position for the toner cartridge 200, ensuring good connection between the toner cartridge 200 and the internal structure of the copier. The structure is compact and easy to maintain: the slide rail 2 is integrated into the side wall of the assembly space 100, does not occupy extra space, and is easy to clean and maintain. Combined with the locking component 14 in the limiting device 1, it automatically locks after the toner cartridge 200 is fully in place, preventing accidental detachment or loosening during operation.

[0053] Example 6:

[0054] Reference Figures 1-5 In addition to possessing all the technical solutions of the above embodiments, the embodiments of the present invention further possess the following technical solutions: The slider 202 is a rhombus-shaped block, and two opposite sidewalls of the rhombus-shaped block are parallel to the inclined section 21, while the other two opposite sidewalls are parallel to the horizontal section 22.

[0055] In this embodiment, the geometry of the rhombus block matches the directional characteristics of the slide 2, which can further improve the stability and guiding accuracy during the sliding process.

[0056] Specifically, the two opposite sidewalls of the rhombus block are parallel to the inclined section 21 of the slide 2, ensuring that the slider 202 and the slide 2 maintain good fit when the powder box 200 slides along the inclined section 21, avoiding jamming or displacement; the other two opposite sidewalls are parallel to the horizontal section 22 of the slide 2, so that when the slider 202 enters the horizontal section 22, it can still maintain a stable sliding state, so that the powder box 200 is accurately positioned at the ideal position at the bottom of the assembly space 100; the design of the rhombus block allows it to naturally adapt to the transition of the slide 2 from inclined to horizontal during the sliding process, reducing frictional resistance and vibration caused by sudden changes in direction, and improving the smoothness of the overall movement.

[0057] The advantages of this structure include enhanced guiding performance: the double sides of the diamond-shaped block correspond to the directions of the two sections of the different slides, so that the powder box 200 is always subjected to the correct guiding force during insertion. Even if the user's operating angle is slightly off, it can be automatically corrected, improving the installation success rate. Improved sliding stability: The symmetrical structure of the rhombus block makes the force more even in the slide 2, avoiding the problem of one-sided wear or jamming that may exist in the traditional rectangular slider 202; Reduce friction loss: Since the inclined surface of the rhomboid block corresponds to the inclined section 21 of the slide 2, the contact area is larger in the initial sliding stage, which disperses the pressure, reduces local wear, and extends the service life. Simplified assembly process: The rhombus blocks can achieve multi-angle adaptation without the need for additional complex guide structures, reducing manufacturing and assembly difficulty; Improved fault tolerance: Even if there are certain errors in the machining of slide 2, the structural characteristics of the rhombus block can be adaptively adjusted to a certain extent to ensure smooth sliding.

[0058] Example 7:

[0059] Reference Figures 1-10 In addition to possessing all the technical solutions of the above embodiments, the embodiments of the present invention further possess the following technical solutions: Synchronous gear 11 is fixedly connected to the bottom wall of powder box 200; when powder box 200 slides to horizontal section 22, synchronous gear 11 can maintain engagement with synchronous wheel 12; when synchronous gear 11 engages with synchronous wheel 12 and synchronous gear 11 slides with powder box 200 toward the bottom end of assembly space 100, it includes a pre-tightening interval and a locking interval in sequence; in the pre-tightening interval, first friction disk 141 gradually approaches second friction disk 142; in the locking interval, first friction disk 141 remains in close contact with second friction disk 142 to switch to and maintain the locked state.

[0060] In this embodiment, when the powder box 200 slides to the horizontal section 22 of the slide 2, the synchronizing gear 11 starts to drive the synchronizing wheel 12 to rotate, thereby driving the first rotating shaft 13 and subsequent components to move.

[0061] Within the pre-tightening zone, as the powder box 200 slides along the horizontal section 22 of the slide rail 2 towards the bottom of the assembly space 100, the synchronous gear 11 drives the synchronous wheel 12 to rotate, and the first rotating shaft 13 rotates accordingly. Because there is a threaded connection between the first pin 15 and the first rotating shaft 13, the first pin 15 pushes the first friction disc 141 gradually closer to the second friction disc 142. During this process, the spring 17 is not compressed by the first friction disc 141.

[0062] Once the first friction disc 141 contacts the second friction disc 142, it enters the locking zone. At this time, the first friction disc 141 is pressed tightly against the second friction disc 142, and the two will gradually slide towards the compression spring 17. During this process, the spring 17 will gradually provide sufficient clamping force, gradually increasing the friction between the first friction disc 141 and the second friction disc 142.

[0063] When the toner cartridge 200 needs to be removed, the user pulls the toner cartridge 200 to slide it out in the opposite direction along the slide rail 2. During this process, the synchronous gear 11 drives the synchronous wheel 12 and the first rotating shaft 13 to reverse, causing the first pin 15 to drive the first friction disc 141 away from the second friction disc 142, thus releasing the locked state.

[0064] Because of the introduction of spring 17, a locking range is provided, which inevitably corresponds to the final sliding section of the toner cartridge 200. Thus, within the final sliding section of the toner cartridge 200, regardless of its position, the toner cartridge 200 remains locked. Furthermore, by continuously sliding the toner cartridge 200 to its limit position, it is ensured that the toner cartridge 200 is properly installed and locked with maximum locking force. Compared to the point-to-point locking method in existing technologies, this invention uses a locking range to achieve locking, resulting in a more linear locking process, less likelihood of impact, and better stability.

[0065] Example 8:

[0066] Reference Figure 9 In addition to possessing all the technical solutions of the above embodiments, the embodiments of the present invention further possess the following technical solutions: Both the first friction disk 141 and the second friction disk 142 are provided with rotating ridges; Within the locked zone, the first friction disc 141 and the second friction disc 142 can rotate relative to each other to generate a warning sound.

[0067] In this embodiment, the rotating ridge not only enhances the locking performance between the friction discs, but also, through its special surface structure, achieves a dual function of alarm sound and tactile feedback in the locked state, thereby improving the intuitiveness of user operation.

[0068] Rotating ridges refer to strip-shaped, wavy, or serrated protrusions on the contact surfaces of two friction discs, distributed in a ring on the disc surface; these rotating ridges have a certain height difference and gap between them, which can enhance the friction force and generate perceptible vibration and sound during the friction process; Within the pre-tightening zone, when the powder box 200 slides into the horizontal section 22, the synchronous gear 11 drives the synchronous wheel 12, causing the first rotating shaft 13 to rotate; the first pin 15, due to the threaded connection, pushes the first friction disc 141 to gradually approach the second friction disc 142; at this time, the two friction discs have not yet come into contact, and there is no interaction between the rotating edges.

[0069] Within the locked area, as the powder box 200 continues to slide in, the first friction disc 141 presses against the second friction disc 142, and the spring 17 is compressed. Since the second friction disc 142 can float axially, while the first friction disc 141 always moves in a rotating manner toward pressing the second friction disc 142, a relative movement will occur between the first friction disc 141 and the second friction disc 142, thereby causing the friction and collision between the rotating edges to produce a clearly audible "click" sound or a mechanical friction sound, and providing tactile feedback.

[0070] At this point, you can continue to push the toner cartridge 200 until it is fully installed.

[0071] The presence of audible prompts and tactile feedback allows personnel assembling the powder cartridge 200 to clearly and intuitively understand the overall status of the limit device 1, thereby improving the assembly reliability of the powder cartridge 200.

[0072] The rotating ridge can also be a protrusion, and the rotating ridge can be made of metal to improve its wear resistance.

[0073] Example 9:

[0074] Reference Figure 10 In addition to possessing all the technical solutions of the above embodiments, the embodiments of the present invention further possess the following technical solutions: The synchronous pulley 12 has an axially formed positioning ring groove 12a, and the synchronous gear 11 has a positioning strip 11a that can slide and engage with the positioning ring groove 12a.

[0075] In this embodiment, the positioning strip 11a and the positioning ring groove 12a are used to further guide the sliding direction of the powder box 200, thereby ensuring the accuracy of its sliding direction and the stability during sliding.

[0076] It can be understood that, except for conflicting parts, the above embodiments 1-9 can be freely combined to form other embodiments of the present invention.

[0077] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0078] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0079] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or that they are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," or "on top" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," or "beneath" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0080] The term "comprising" or any other similar term is intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, article, or apparatus / device that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to those processes, articles, or apparatus / devices.

[0081] The technical solution of the present invention has been described above with reference to the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the scope of protection of the present invention is obviously not limited to these specific embodiments. Without departing from the principles of the present invention, those skilled in the art can make equivalent changes or substitutions to the relevant technical features, and the technical solutions after such changes or substitutions will all fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A photocopier toner cartridge that is easy to install, suitable for assembly into a photocopier via a limiting device (1), characterized in that: The copier forms an assembly space (100) for the toner cartridge (200). The limiting device (1) includes a synchronizing gear (11), a synchronizing wheel (12), a rotating shaft (13), and a locking assembly (14); the rotating shaft (13) is axially fixed and rotatably connected to the bottom wall of the assembly space (100) along the length direction of the powder box (200); the synchronizing wheel (12) is fixedly connected to one end of the rotating shaft (13); and the synchronizing gear (11) is fixedly connected to the bottom wall of the powder box (200); the locking assembly (14) includes a first friction disc (141) and a second friction disc (142). When the powder box (200) slides into or out of the assembly space (100), the synchronizing gear (11) can drive the synchronizing wheel (12), the rotating shaft (13) and the first friction disc (141) to rotate, so that the first friction disc (141) and the second friction disc (142) can switch between a locked state of mutual pressing and a unlocked state of mutual separation. The limiting device (1) is configured in two symmetrical sets to form two symmetrical and balanced force-bearing parts on both sides of the powder box (200); The limiting device (1) further includes a first pin (15) and a second pin (16). The opposite ends of the rotating shaft (13) and the first pin (15) respectively form an axially sliding sleeve (13a) and a guide rod (15a), and the relative positions of the sleeve (13a) and the guide rod (15a) in the circumferential direction are fixed. The other end of the first pin (15) is fixedly connected to the first friction disc (141), and the first pin (15) is axially threaded to the side wall of the assembly space (100). The second pin (16) can be supported on the side wall of the assembly space (100) in a circumferentially fixed and axially limited manner, and the second friction disk (142) is fixedly connected to the end of the second pin (16) near the first friction disk (141); A spring (17) is provided between the two second friction discs (142) of the two sets of limiting devices (1) to maintain a spring force that keeps the two second friction discs (142) moving away from each other; A slide (2) is formed on the side wall of the assembly space (100) to guide the powder box (200) to the bottom of the assembly space (100); The powder box (200) includes a body (201) and two ends fixedly connected to the body (201), both of which are provided on sliders (202) that match the slide rail (2). The slide (2) includes an inclined section (21) and a horizontal section (22) connected to each other. The horizontal section (22) corresponds to the bottom position of the assembly space (100), and the inclined section (21) corresponds to the upper position of the assembly space (100). When the powder box (200) slides to the horizontal section (22), the synchronizing gear (11) can maintain engagement with the synchronizing wheel (12); When the synchronizing gear (11) meshes with the synchronizing wheel (12), and the synchronizing gear (11) slides toward the bottom of the assembly space (100) along with the powder box (200), it includes a pre-tightening interval and a locking interval in sequence; During the pre-tightening interval, the first friction disc (141) gradually approaches the second friction disc (142). During the locking interval, the first friction disc (141) remains in close contact with the second friction disc (142) to switch to and maintain the locking state.

2. The easy-to-install copier toner cartridge as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The slider (202) is a rhombus-shaped block, and two opposite sidewalls of the rhombus-shaped block are parallel to the inclined section (21), while the other two opposite sidewalls are parallel to the horizontal section (22).

3. The easy-to-install copier toner cartridge as described in claim 2, characterized in that: Both the first friction disc (141) and the second friction disc (142) are provided with rotating ridges; Within the locked range, the first friction disc (141) and the second friction disc (142) can rotate relative to each other to emit a warning sound and tactile feedback.

4. The easy-to-install copier toner cartridge as described in any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that: The synchronous pulley (12) is provided with a positioning ring groove (12a) axially, and the synchronous tooth (11) is provided with a positioning strip (11a) that can slide with the positioning ring groove (12a).

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