Toner supply device for toner container

Abstract

The invention provides a powdered ink supply device for a powdered ink container, the powdered ink supply device comprises a roller assembly and a pump body assembly, the roller assembly is located in the pump body assembly, relative movement is formed between the roller assembly and the pump body assembly, and the relative position change of the roller assembly and the pump body assembly caused by the movement changes the size of the internal space of the pump body assembly and causes the change of air pressure in the powdered ink container to convey powdered ink. The whole structure of the device utilizes a less sliding friction structure, the power loss is effectively reduced, the service life of the device is prolonged, and the device is more energy-saving and environment-friendly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of toner container technology, and more specifically, to a toner supply device for a toner container. Background Technology

[0002] In laser printing or copying equipment, the toner supply container is crucial. It is not only a toner reservoir but also a key component ensuring print quality and normal equipment operation. Insufficient or unstable air pressure in the toner supply container directly affects toner delivery, leading to a series of specific print quality problems and, in severe cases, even damaging the equipment. Existing toner supply containers have the following drawbacks.

[0003] 1. Insufficient gas pressurization leads to the accumulation of toner that has been deposited for a long time, resulting in a lack of normal supply. This causes the equipment to malfunction due to insufficient toner, falsely reporting that the toner consumables are depleted.

[0004] 2. Gas compression devices involve mechanical power transmission, have a lot of sliding friction, and therefore require high durability of structural materials and more energy to drive them.

[0005] 3. The product cannot be refilled with toner and cannot be used again. The product is for single use only, and empty bottles generate more solid waste. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To address the problems in the background art, the device of the present invention utilizes the relative movement of a roller assembly installed inside the toner container and a support to cause the elastic sleeve to deform and change its shape and volume. Since the entire assembly is installed inside the toner container, it causes changes in the internal air pressure, resulting in an air pressure difference with the outside. Toner particles are then output to the corresponding external pipeline with the airflow.

[0007] This invention proposes a toner container supply device, comprising: a roller assembly and a pump body assembly. The roller assembly is located inside the pump body assembly, and the two rotate relative to each other. The change in the relative position caused by the rotation changes the size of the internal space of the pump body assembly, causing a change in the air pressure inside the toner container, thereby delivering toner.

[0008] Optionally, the pump body assembly has an airflow channel at one end and is closed at the other end.

[0009] Optionally, the roller assembly includes: a roller having a roller axle; a roller bracket having a roller connector engaged with the roller axle, the roller being located on the side of the roller bracket; and a main shaft passing through the roller bracket and fixed radially and axially to the roller bracket, the main shaft rotating to drive the roller bracket to rotate, the roller bracket rotating relative to the roller.

[0010] Optionally, two rollers are symmetrically connected on both sides of the roller bracket, and the roller bracket has a central channel; the main shaft has a pin and a retaining ring, the main shaft passes through the central channel of the roller bracket, and is axially fixed to the roller bracket by the pin, and the main shaft is radially fixed to the roller bracket by the retaining ring being locked in the groove of the central channel.

[0011] Optionally, the pump body assembly includes: an elastic sleeve fitted onto the roller assembly and conforming to the outer surface of the roller assembly; an upper plug on the elastic sleeve that passes through the upper end of the main shaft of the roller assembly and blocks the upper end of the elastic sleeve, sealing the upper end; and a lower plug on the elastic sleeve that passes through the lower end of the main shaft of the roller assembly and blocks the lower end of the elastic sleeve, with the airflow channel located at the center of the lower plug on the elastic sleeve; when the main shaft rotates, the rollers of the roller assembly roll relative to the elastic sleeve, causing the elastic sleeve to change between protrusions and depressions.

[0012] Optionally, the pump body assembly includes a perforated bracket and a column bracket, the perforated bracket and the column bracket being semi-circular cylindrical structures, which clamp the elastic sleeve of the pump body assembly in the middle when they are fastened together.

[0013] Optionally, the two ends of the perforated bracket and the column bracket are fitted with elastic upper plugs and elastic lower plugs, which are pressed and sealed with the elastic sleeves.

[0014] Optionally, the two ends of the perforated bracket and the column bracket are respectively fixed to the upper end cap and the lower end cap of the elastic sleeve, so that when the main shaft rotates, the perforated bracket and the column bracket rotate accordingly.

[0015] Optionally, the pump body assembly includes: an elastic sealing ring, which is placed between the lower end of the elastic sleeve and the lower plug of the elastic sleeve to seal the periphery of the elastic sleeve, so that airflow only enters and exits from the airflow channel.

[0016] Optionally, the pump body assembly includes: a gland that passes through the lower end of the main shaft and presses against the outside of the lower plug of the elastic sleeve, the inner part of the gland being fixed to the toner container.

[0017] Optionally, the pump body assembly includes: a gland housing, the upper end of which is rotatably fixed to the lower end of the gland, such that the gland housing can rotate relative to the gland.

[0018] Optionally, the pump body assembly includes a main shaft sleeve connected between the gland and the gland housing. The main shaft sleeve includes: a plug end that fits onto the lower end of the main shaft passing through the gland and is torsionally connected to it; and a torque transmission end that mates with a slot in the gland housing to transmit torque to the gland housing.

[0019] Optionally, the pump body assembly includes a housing handle fixed to the lower end of the gland housing, the housing handle covering a portion of the gland housing.

[0020] Optionally, the elastic sleeve protrudes when the relative positions of the roller assembly and the pump body assembly are 90 degrees; and the elastic sleeve is recessed when the relative positions of the roller assembly and the pump body assembly are 0 degrees.

[0021] Optionally, when the relative positions of the roller assembly and the pump body assembly are 90 degrees, the internal space of the pump body assembly is the largest and the air pressure inside the toner container is the largest; when the relative positions of the roller assembly and the pump body assembly are 0 degrees, the internal space of the pump body assembly is the smallest and the air pressure inside the toner container is the smallest.

[0022] Alternatively, the toner container's outlet for toner is located on the side away from the airflow channel.

[0023] The beneficial effects of the present invention include: the overall structure of the device of the present invention utilizes fewer sliding friction structures, effectively reducing power loss, extending the service life of the device, and being more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.

[0024] Furthermore, the present invention has a more powerful gas compression volume, which promotes the output of toner from the toner container to the copier developing chamber assembly, and prevents the problem of poor toner supply caused by toner accumulation in the delivery pipeline.

[0025] Furthermore, the entire pump body structure of the device of the present invention is inside the entire bottle. While the pump body pressurizes during operation, the movement of the roller assembly can cause the elastic sleeve in the center of the container to agitate, making the toner more fluffy and preventing it from accumulating, clumping, and solidifying.

[0026] Furthermore, the device of this invention has a threaded structure that allows for repeated disassembly, making it convenient for customers to refill the toner after use and reuse it. Attached Figure Description

[0027] To facilitate understanding of the invention, it will be described in more detail with reference to the specific embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. These drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and should not be considered as limiting the scope of protection of the invention.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the roller of the device of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the roller support of the device of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the main shaft of the device of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the roller assembly of the device of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the elastic sleeve of the device of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the elastic sleeve assembly of the device of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of the elastically fitted plug of the device of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of the elastically fitted plug of the device of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the elastic sleeve lower plug of the device of the present invention from a first-view perspective.

[0037] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the elastic sleeve lower plug of the device of the present invention from a second angle.

[0038] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of the elastic sleeve lower plug of the device of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the pump body assembly of the device of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of the pump body assembly of the device of the present invention in a first embodiment.

[0041] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of the pump body with perforated support of the device of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of the pump body with column support of the device of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 16 This is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the pump body assembly of the device of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view of the pump body assembly of the device of the present invention in a second embodiment.

[0045] Figure 18 This is a perspective view of the elastic sleeve lower plug with elastic sealing ring of the device of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 19 This is a perspective view of the pump body assembly of the device of the present invention, showing a second embodiment with a different viewing angle.

[0047] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of the pressure cap of the device of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 21 This is a perspective view of the pump body assembly of the device of the present invention in a third embodiment.

[0049] Figure 22 This is a perspective view of the main shaft sleeve of the device of the present invention from a first-view perspective.

[0050] Figure 23 This is a perspective view of the main shaft sleeve of the device of the present invention from a second angle.

[0051] Figure 24 This is a perspective view of the pressure cover housing of the device of the present invention from a first-view perspective.

[0052] Figure 25 This is a perspective view of the pressure cover housing of the device of the present invention from a second perspective.

[0053] Figure 26 This is a perspective view of the fourth embodiment of the pump body assembly of the inventive device.

[0054] Figure 27 This is a first-view perspective view of the handle of the outer casing of the device of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 28 This is a perspective view of the outer casing handle of the device of the present invention from a second perspective.

[0056] Figure 29 This is a perspective view of the pump assembly of the device of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 30 This is a perspective view of the pump assembly of the device of the present invention from the perspective of the outer casing handle.

[0058] Figure 31 This is a perspective view of the pump body assembly of the device of the present invention, wherein the elastic sleeve is in its minimum volume state.

[0059] Figure 32 This is a perspective view of the pump body assembly of the device of the present invention, wherein the elastic sleeve is in its maximum volume state.

[0060] Figure 33 This is a 3D view of the toner container.

[0061] Figure 34 This is a first-view perspective perspective view of the device assembly of the present invention, wherein the pump assembly is installed inside the toner container.

[0062] Figure 35 This is an axial cross-sectional view of the device assembly of the present invention, wherein the elastic sleeve is in its minimum volume state.

[0063] Figure 36 This is an axial cross-sectional view of the device assembly of the present invention, wherein the elastic sleeve is in its maximum volume state.

[0064] Figure 37 This is a radial cross-sectional view of the device assembly of the present invention, wherein the elastic sleeve is in its minimum volume state.

[0065] Figure 38 This is a radial cross-sectional view of the device assembly of the present invention, wherein the elastic sleeve is in its maximum volume state.

[0066] Figure 39 This is a perspective view of the device assembly of the present invention from another angle. Detailed Implementation

[0067] The embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings to enable those skilled in the art to better understand and implement the present invention. However, the listed embodiments are not intended to limit the present invention. In the absence of conflict, the following embodiments and the technical features in the embodiments can be combined with each other, wherein the same components are indicated by the same reference numerals.

[0068] The device of the present invention is installed inside a toner container. The device includes a roller assembly and a pump assembly. The roller assembly is located within the pump assembly, and both rotate and slide simultaneously. Changes in the relative positions of the roller assembly and the pump assembly alter the internal space of the pump assembly, thereby causing changes in the internal space of the toner container, and consequently, changes in the internal air pressure of the toner container, thus delivering toner.

[0069] The roller assembly of the present invention includes a wheel roller. Figure 1 A perspective view of one embodiment of the roller is shown. The roller 4 has roller axle positions 4a for connecting the roller 4 to the roller support 5 (see description below). Preferably, the roller 4 is cylindrical, with both ends gradually transitioning to arc shapes from the middle to both ends, and the roller axle positions 4a are located at both ends of the roller 4. In one embodiment, the roller 4 includes: a cylindrical roller body 4c, two arc-shaped ends 4b, and two roller axle positions 4a. The two arc-shaped ends 4b are connected to the roller body 4c via the two roller axle positions 4a. The outer diameter of the roller axle positions 4a is smaller than that of the roller body 4c. The outer diameter of the inner side of the arc-shaped ends 4b is the same as that of the roller body 4c, and the outer diameter of the arc-shaped ends 4b gradually decreases from the inner side to the outer side, forming an arc-shaped profile.

[0070] The device of the present invention also includes a roller bracket. The roller bracket can engage with the roller. Figure 2A perspective view of one embodiment of the roller bracket is shown. The roller bracket 5 includes: a roller bracket body and roller connectors 5b. The roller bracket body is cylindrical with openings on the body. Roller connectors 5b are arranged radially outward on the roller bracket body. Preferably, two roller connectors 5b are arranged on each of the symmetrical sides. The two roller connectors 5b on the same side are used to connect with the two roller shafts 4a of the roller 4, so that the roller 4 rotates more smoothly relative to the roller bracket 5. The end of the roller connector 5b (the end away from the roller bracket body) has a C-shaped hole 5a for engaging the roller shaft 4a of the roller 4. The opening spacing of the C-shaped holes 5a is smaller than the diameter of the roller shaft 4a, forming an effective locking position. The roller bracket 5 is fitted with two rollers 4 on both sides, forming a 180-degree symmetrical arrangement after installation. The roller bracket body has an axial channel 5d that penetrates the entire roller bracket body. The opening of the channel 5d has a groove. Figure 2 The channel 5d shown has four slots 5c extending radially outward from the center. The roller support body has a radial opening on its cylindrical body, which communicates with the channel 5d and preferably penetrates the roller support body.

[0071] The device of the present invention also includes a main shaft. The main shaft passes through a roller support and is positioned relative to the roller support in both the axial and radial directions.

[0072] Figure 3 A perspective view of one embodiment of the spindle is shown. The lower end 9a of the spindle 9 is a flat plate for transmitting torque. The upper end 9g of the spindle 9 is cylindrical. Snap ring grooves are provided on the spindle 9 at regular intervals. Figure 3 The image shows four circlip grooves: circlip groove 9b, circlip groove 9c, circlip groove 9e, and circlip groove 9f. The spindle 9 is provided with a plurality of radially outwardly extending pins 18. Preferably, the pins 18 pass through the shaft body of the spindle 9 and are evenly spaced on the spindle 9.

[0073] The device of the present invention includes a roller assembly, which comprises a roller, a roller bracket, and a main shaft. The roller is mounted on the roller bracket and is rotatable relative to the roller bracket. The main shaft is inserted into the roller bracket and restricts the roller bracket in the axial and radial directions. When the main shaft is rotated, the roller bracket is driven to rotate by the main shaft, and the roller is driven to rotate by the roller bracket.

[0074] Figure 4A perspective view of one embodiment of the roller assembly is shown. The roller assembly includes a spindle 9, a plurality of roller supports 5 (four shown in the figure), and a plurality of rollers 4 (eight shown in the figure). The spindle 9 passes through a slot 5c into a channel 5d of a roller support 5, and a pin 18 passes through a radial opening in the roller support 5, thereby radially fixing the spindle 9 and the roller support 5. Four roller supports 5 are assembled in this way, with two rollers 4 mounted on each roller support 5, and a pin from the spindle 9 passes through each roller support. The roller assembly also includes two standard retaining rings 17, which respectively engage with two retaining ring slots on the spindle 9, thereby axially fixing the spindle 9 and the roller support 5.

[0075] The pump body assembly of the device of the present invention includes an elastic sleeve. The shape of the elastic sleeve matches the outer contour of the roller assembly, preferably being flat, and is used to fit over the roller assembly. The elastic sleeve is in contact with the outer surface of the roller assembly. When the roller assembly rotates, the outer surface of the roller assembly (the outer surface of the roller, and sometimes also including the outer surface of the roller support) and the inner surface of the elastic sleeve form rolling friction. When the flat structure of the roller assembly matches the flat structure of the elastic sleeve, the elastic sleeve is concave; when there is an angle between the flat structure of the roller assembly and the flat structure of the elastic sleeve, the elastic sleeve is convex; when the angle is 90 degrees, the elastic sleeve is in its most convex state.

[0076] Figure 5 A perspective view of one embodiment of the elastic sleeve is shown. The elastic sleeve 7 (preferably made of rubber) is a flat cylindrical shape with a profile that matches the outer profile of the roller assembly. Figure 5 The roller assembly shown can be loaded into the elastic sleeve 7, and the inner surface 7a of the elastic sleeve 7 rotates (rolls and slides) with the outer contour surface of the roller 4.

[0077] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the assembled elastic sleeve 7 and roller assembly is shown. The elastic sleeve 7 has an upper end and a lower end. The lower end 7b of the elastic sleeve 7 is fitted onto the lower end 9a of the main shaft 9, and the upper end 7c of the elastic sleeve 7 is fitted onto the upper end 9g of the main shaft 9. A sleeve opening protrusion 7f is provided on the outer edge of the port of the lower end 7b of the elastic sleeve 7, and a sleeve opening protrusion 7g is provided on the outer edge of the port of the upper end 7c of the elastic sleeve 7. Elastic strips 7d are provided on both axial sides of the elastic sleeve 7, and the edges of the elastic strips 7d have protrusions (the cross-sectional shape shown in the figure is T-shaped). The protrusions on the edges of the elastic strips 7d are used to engage with the grooves of external components to limit the rotation of the elastic sleeve 7. Preferably, the length of the elastic sleeve 7 is based on the retaining springs 17 covering both ends of the roller assembly, and a portion of the shaft body at both ends of the main shaft 9 can be exposed.

[0078] In one embodiment, the pump body assembly of the device of the present invention further includes a resiliently fitted plug. The resiliently fitted plug is fitted onto the upper end of the main shaft and inserted into the upper end of the resilient sleeve, forming a tight fit.

[0079] Figure 7 and Figure 8 A perspective view of one embodiment of the elastic sleeve plug is shown. The elastic sleeve plug 3 includes an elastic sleeve engagement end 3b, the contour shape of which matches the contour of the inner surface of the elastic sleeve 7. The elastic sleeve engagement end 3b is inserted into the upper end 7c of the elastic sleeve 7, and the outer surface of the elastic sleeve engagement end 3b is press-fitted with the inner surface of the upper end 7c of the elastic sleeve 7 to form a seal. The elastic sleeve engagement end 3b has a partition 3f at its center, and the partition 3f has a through hole 3a at its center for the upper end 9g of the spindle 9 to pass through. The elastic sleeve plug 3 also includes an extension 3g, one end of which engages with the elastic sleeve engagement end 3b, and the other end is sealed. The extension 3g is used to accommodate the upper end 9g of the spindle 9. Preferably, the partition 3f also extends into the extension 3g to better secure the upper end 9g of the spindle 9. The elastic sleeve end 3b of the plug 3 has a ring of protrusions at the junction with the extension 3g. Fixing holes 3d (a total of 4) are symmetrically arranged on the upper and lower sides of the protrusion. Ribs 3e are also provided on the protrusion.

[0080] In one embodiment, the pump body assembly of the device of the present invention further includes a lower plug of the elastic sleeve. The lower plug of the elastic sleeve is fitted onto the lower end of the main shaft and inserted into the lower end of the elastic sleeve, forming a tight fit.

[0081] Figures 9-10 A perspective view of one embodiment of the resilient sleeve lower plug 10 is shown. Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of the lower plug of the elastic sleeve is shown. The lower plug 10 of the elastic sleeve includes a sealing cap 10g, an elastic sleeve engaging end 10b, a sealing cap boss 10c, a pressure cap connecting end 10j, and a sealing cap recess 10i. The elastic sleeve engaging end 10b is located at the center of the inner side (the side facing the elastic sleeve) of the sealing cap 10g, and the pressure cap connecting end 10j is located at the center of the outer side (the side away from the elastic sleeve) of the sealing cap 10g. The pressure cap connecting end 10j has a through hole in its center. The elastic sleeve engaging end 10b and the pressure cap connecting end 10j form an airflow communication. Figure 10 As shown, the sealing cap 10g has an outer ring portion 10h and a central recessed portion 10i on its outer side. The recessed portion 10i is circular, and the cap connecting end 10j is located at the center of the recessed portion 10i. Preferably, the diameter of the sealing cap recess 10i is the same as the diameter of the sealing cap boss 10c. The sealing cap 10g has a certain thickness to form an outer diameter surface 10k. Preferably, the sealing cap 10g (preferably on the sealing cap boss 10c) has a plurality of (four shown in the figure) fixing holes 10d. Ribs 10e are provided on the inner side of the sealing cap 10g.

[0082] The shape of the elastic sleeve engagement end 10b matches the inner surface contour of the lower end 7b of the elastic sleeve 7. The elastic sleeve engagement end 10b is inserted into the lower end 7b of the elastic sleeve 7, and the outer surface of the elastic sleeve engagement end 10b is press-fitted with the inner surface of the lower end 7b of the elastic sleeve 7 to form a seal. The elastic sleeve engagement end 10b has a separator 10f in the center, which divides the elastic sleeve engagement end 10b into two channels. The separator 10f has a through hole 10a in the center, which is used for the lower end 9a of the spindle 9b to pass through. The gas inside the elastic sleeve 7 is divided into two airflow channels through the elastic sleeve engagement end 10b, and then converges into one airflow channel at the gland connection end 10j, which is connected to the outside. The elastic sleeve upper plug 3 and the elastic sleeve lower plug 10 are assembled at both ends of the elastic sleeve 7. The internal cavity of the elastic sleeve 7 is connected to the outside only through the two airflow channels of the elastic sleeve sealing cover 10g. The airflow channel of the elastic sleeve lower plug 10 is shown in Figure 11.

[0083] In this first embodiment, the pump body assembly of the device of the present invention includes an elastic sleeve, an upper plug on the elastic sleeve, and a lower plug on the elastic sleeve. The pump body assembly cooperates with a roller assembly. The roller assembly is located inside the elastic sleeve of the pump body assembly, and the upper plug on the elastic sleeve passes through the main shaft of the roller assembly and blocks the upper end of the elastic sleeve. The lower plug on the elastic sleeve passes through the main shaft of the roller assembly and blocks the lower end of the elastic sleeve. The upper plug on the elastic sleeve provides a seal, while the lower plug on the elastic sleeve has an air passage communicating with the outside.

[0084] Figure 12 A perspective view of a first embodiment of the pump body assembly is shown. Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of the pump body assembly is shown. The roller assembly is located within the elastic sleeve 7. A retaining ring 17 mounted on the outermost retaining ring groove at the upper end of the main shaft 9 stops the separator 3f of the upper plug 3 of the elastic sleeve, and a retaining ring 17 mounted on the outermost retaining ring groove at the lower end of the main shaft 9 stops the separator 10f of the lower plug 10 of the elastic sleeve, thereby restricting the axial movement of the main shaft 9. Furthermore, the upper plug 3 of the elastic sleeve is fixed to an external device through a fixing hole, and the lower plug 10 of the elastic sleeve is fixed to an external device through a fixing hole, thereby fixing the axial movement of the main shaft 9.

[0085] In a second embodiment of the pump body assembly of the device of the present invention, the pump body assembly further includes a perforated bracket and a column bracket, the perforated bracket and the column bracket being semi-circular cylindrical structures, which can be fastened together to sandwich the pump body assembly in the middle.

[0086] Figure 14A perspective view of one embodiment of the perforated bracket 6 is shown. The perforated bracket 6 is semi-cylindrical in shape. Multiple claws 6c are evenly arranged on the outer side of the cylindrical body of the perforated bracket 6. Multiple evenly arranged fixed holes 6d are provided on the axially inner side of the cylindrical wall of the perforated bracket 6 (the side that engages with the column bracket 8). Two axially extending fixing grooves 6a are provided on the axially inner side of the cylindrical wall of the perforated bracket 6, the fixing grooves 6a being used to accommodate the elastic strip 7d of the elastic sleeve 7. The fixing grooves 6a are radially closer to the inner side than the fixed holes 6d. The upper radially inner side 6b of the cylindrical wall of the perforated bracket 6 has a certain width, and its surface profile matches the shape of half of the upper end 7c of the elastic sleeve 7. A sleeve groove 6b is provided on the outer edge of the port of the upper radially inner side 6b. The lower radially inner side 6i of the cylindrical wall of the perforated bracket 6 has a certain width, and its surface profile matches the shape of half of the lower end 7b of the elastic sleeve 7. The lower end radially inward side 6i has a sleeve groove 6j on its outer edge. Multiple fixing holes 6h are provided on the axially outward side of the lower end of the perforated bracket 6. A locking position 6g is provided on the axially outward side of the lower end of the perforated bracket 6. A buckle 6e is provided on the radially inward side of the lower end of the perforated bracket 6. A buckle 6k is provided on the outer diameter surface of the upper end of the perforated bracket 6.

[0087] Figure 15 A perspective view of the column bracket 8 is shown. The column bracket 8 is semi-cylindrical in shape. Multiple locking positions 8c are evenly arranged on the outer side of the column bracket 8. Multiple evenly arranged positioning posts 8d are present on the axial inner side of the column bracket 8's wall (the side that engages with the perforated bracket 6). The positioning posts 8d correspond one-to-one with the positioning holes 6d, providing relative positioning. The locking claws 6c correspond one-to-one with the locking positions 8c; through the engagement of the locking claws 6c and the locking positions 8c, the column bracket 8 and the perforated bracket 6 are fastened together to form a fixed structure, preventing separation under force. Two axially extending fixing grooves 8a are provided on the axial inner side of the column bracket 8's wall. The fixing grooves 8a are used to accommodate the elastic strips 7d of the elastic sleeve 7. The fixing grooves 8a are radially closer to the inner side than the positioning posts 8d. The upper radially inner side 8b of the column bracket 8 has a certain width, and its shape matches half the shape of the upper end 7c of the elastic sleeve 7. The outer edge of the port of the upper radially inner side 8b has a sleeve groove. The lower radially inward side 8i of the column bracket 8 has a certain width, and its shape matches half of the lower end 7b of the elastic sleeve 7. The outer edge of the port of the lower radially inward side 8i has a sleeve groove 8j, and multiple fixing holes 8h are provided on the axially outward surface of the lower end of the column bracket 8. A locking position 8g is provided on the axially outward surface of the lower end of the column bracket 8. A buckle 8e is provided on the radially inward surface of the lower end of the column bracket 8. A buckle 8k is provided on the outer diameter surface of the upper end of the column bracket 8.

[0088] Figure 16 A perspective view of a second embodiment of the pump body assembly is shown. Figure 17A cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of the pump body assembly is shown.

[0089] like Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, when the column bracket 8 and the perforated bracket 6 are engaged, the T-shaped outer protrusion of the elastic strip 7d is firmly secured in the fixing groove 6a and the fixing groove 8a respectively, so that the elastic strip 7d is clamped in the closed groove formed by the fixing groove 6a and the fixing groove 8a and does not come out under force.

[0090] When the perforated bracket 6 and the column bracket 8 are fastened together, the upper radially inward side 6b of the perforated bracket 6 and the upper radially inward side 8b of the column bracket 8 combine and press against the outer surface of the upper end 7c of the elastic sleeve 7, thus tightening them. The lower radially inward side 6i of the perforated bracket 6 and the lower radially inward side 8i of the column bracket 8 combine and press against the outer surface of the lower end 7b of the elastic sleeve 7, thus tightening them.

[0091] When the perforated bracket 6 and the column bracket 8 are fastened together, the symmetrical sleeve grooves 6j at both ends of the perforated bracket 6 and the symmetrical sleeve grooves 8j at both ends of the column bracket 8 form a complete groove. The symmetrical elastic strips on both sides of the elastic sleeve 7 are engaged within this complete groove, which can withstand the tensile force in the contraction direction of the elastic sleeve 7. The locking positions 8g of the column bracket 8 and 6g of the perforated bracket will cooperate with the ribs 10e on the inner side of the sealing cap 10g for positioning. Similarly, the upper ends of the column bracket 8 and the perforated bracket 6 have similar locking structures, which cooperate with the ribs 3e of the plug 3 on the elastic sleeve for positioning. The buckles 6k of the perforated bracket 6 and 8k of the column bracket 8 cooperate to strengthen the fixation. The buckles 6e of the perforated bracket 6 and 8e of the column bracket 8 cooperate to strengthen the fixation.

[0092] Furthermore, a third embodiment of the pump body assembly of the device of the present invention further includes an elastic sealing ring. The elastic sealing ring is used to seal the lower end of the elastic sleeve, so that gas inside the elastic sleeve can only enter and exit through the airflow channel of the lower plug of the elastic sleeve.

[0093] Figure 18 A perspective view of the elastic sealing ring is shown. The elastic sealing ring 16 passes through the elastic sleeve engagement end 10b of the elastic sleeve lower plug 10, and the outer side of the elastic sealing ring 16 is attached to the inner side of the sealing cap 10g. Preferably, the thickness of the inner ring 16b of the elastic sealing ring 16 is the same as that of the sealing cap boss 10c, and the diameter of the inner ring 16b of the elastic sealing ring 16 is the same as the outer diameter of the sealing cap boss 10c, so that the inner ring 16b of the elastic sealing ring 16 and the sealing cap boss 10c fit tightly together.

[0094] In one embodiment, the pump body assembly of the device of the present invention includes self-tapping screws. Standard self-tapping screws 15 pass through the fixing holes 10d (a total of four) of the elastic sleeve lower plug 10 and are fixed within the fixing holes 6h of the perforated bracket 6 and 8h of the column bracket 8, forming a fixation, thereby firmly fixing the elastic sleeve lower plug 10 to the perforated bracket 6 and the column bracket 8. The fixed configuration is as follows... Figure 19 As shown.

[0095] Similarly, the standard self-tapping screws 15 pass through the fixing holes 3d (a total of 4) of the elastic sleeve plug 3, and are fixed in the fixing holes 6h of the perforated bracket 6 and 8h of the post bracket 8, forming a fixation, thereby firmly fixing the elastic sleeve plug 3 to the perforated bracket 6 and the post bracket 8. The fixed shape is as follows. Figure 16 As shown.

[0096] In one embodiment, the pump body assembly of the device of the present invention further includes a gland. Figure 20 A perspective view of one embodiment of the pressure cap is shown. The cap portion of the pressure cap 11 has a central perforation 11d. On the inner side of the cap portion of the pressure cap 11, there are two layers of annular protrusions in the radial direction: a lower annular protrusion 11a and an upper annular protrusion 11b, the lower annular protrusion 11a being wider than the upper annular protrusion 11b, forming a stepped misalignment. The outer side of the cap portion of the pressure cap 11 has a rib 11e. The inner wall of the pressure cap 11 has threads 11c. The outer side of the cap portion of the pressure cap 11 has a plurality of locating posts.

[0097] The gland 11 is used to mate with the outer surface of the sealing cap 10g of the elastic sleeve lower plug 10. Specifically, the lower end 9a of the main shaft 9 passes through the through hole 11d of the gland 11. The axial surface of the lower annular protrusion 11a of the gland 11 mates with the outer ring portion 10h of the sealing cap of the elastic sleeve lower plug 10, thereby axially positioning the elastic sleeve lower plug 10. The radial surface of the upper annular protrusion 11b of the gland 11 mates with the outer diameter surface 10k of the elastic sleeve lower plug 10, thereby radially positioning the elastic sleeve lower plug 10. Figure 21 A perspective view of a third embodiment of the pump body assembly with the pressure cap 11 installed is shown.

[0098] In one embodiment, the device of the present invention further includes a spindle sleeve 12. Figure 22 and Figure 23A perspective view of the spindle sleeve 12 is shown. The spindle sleeve 12 includes a plug end 12c and a torque transmission end 12b. The outer diameter of the plug end 12c is smaller than that of the torque transmission end 12b. The torque transmission end 12b has a through hole 12a at its center, and the inner diameter surface of the through hole 12a mates with the cylindrical outer surface of the spindle 9, serving to radially fix the spindle 9. A plurality of torsion ribs (shown as four) are evenly arranged on the outer surface of the torque transmission end 12b, and these torsion ribs mate with the slots 13b of the gland housing 13 (see the embodiment below), serving to transmit torque between them. The plug end 12c has a flat through hole 12d at its center, and the inner surface of the through hole 12d mates with the flat head of the lower end 9a of the spindle 9, serving to transmit torque between them.

[0099] Furthermore, a fourth embodiment of the pump body assembly of the device of the present invention also includes a pressure cap housing 13. Figure 24 and Figure 25 A perspective view of the gland housing 13 is shown. The gland housing 13 is divided into upper and lower ends by a central partition, with a through hole 13g at the center of the partition. Clips 13a are evenly arranged axially on the inner wall of the upper end of the gland housing 13. A groove 13b is provided at the center of the partition, communicating with the through hole 13g. Multiple ribs 13e (two shown in the figure) are provided on the inner wall of the lower end of the gland housing 13. A protrusion with a hole 13f is provided on the inner half of the circumferential wall of the lower end of the gland housing 13. Fixing ribs 13d (two shown in the figure) are provided on the outer surface of the wall of the gland housing 13.

[0100] The gland housing 13 can be combined with the spindle sleeve 12. Specifically, the insertion end 12c of the spindle sleeve 12 passes through the through hole 13g, and the transmission end 12b of the spindle sleeve 12 is accommodated in the slot 13b. That is, multiple torsional ribs on the outer surface of the transmission end 12b are accommodated in the slot 13b, and the surfaces are combined, so that the gland housing 13 can transmit torque with the spindle sleeve 12.

[0101] The cap housing 13 can be engaged with the cap 11. Specifically, the upper end of the cap housing 13 is fitted onto the cap 11. The buckle 13a engages with the rib 11e of the cap 11, so that the cap housing 13 and the cap 11 are engaged together, and the cap housing 13 and the cap 11 can rotate relative to each other. Figure 26 This is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the pump body assembly after the gland housing 13 and the gland 11 are fastened together. The gland housing 13, the main shaft sleeve 12, the main shaft 9, and the roller bracket 5 are assembled as a single unit and can transmit torque.

[0102] In one embodiment, the device of the present invention further includes a housing handle 14. Figure 27 and Figure 28A perspective view of the outer casing handle 14 is shown. Multiple slots 14a (two shown in the figure) are provided on the wall of the outer casing handle 14. Multiple reinforcing ribs are provided on the inner side of the wall of the outer casing handle 14, and the reinforcing ribs have fixing holes 14b. Three fixing holes 14b are evenly distributed on the wall of the outer casing handle 14.

[0103] The outer casing handle 14 mates with the pressure cap outer casing 13. Specifically, the slot 14a of the outer casing handle 14 mates with the rib 13e of the pressure cap outer casing 13, with the rib 13e inserted into the slot 14a. The rib 13e and the slot 14a serve as guides. A standard screw passes through the hole 14b of the outer casing handle 14 and is tightened into the hole 13f of the pressure cap outer casing 13, thus fixing the outer casing handle 14 to the pressure cap outer casing 13. The installed configuration is as follows. Figure 29 and Figure 30 As shown. Figure 29 A perspective view of the pump assembly is shown. Figure 30 The image shows a perspective view of the pump assembly facing the housing handle. The housing handle 14 is semi-circular, thus only covering half of the gland housing 13, allowing for easy insertion of a hand into the housing handle 14 to pull the pump assembly.

[0104] Figure 31 A perspective view of the pump body assembly is shown. The pump body assembly is in a first state, in which the elastic sleeve 7 is in its minimum volume state. The middle part 7e of the elastic sleeve 7 does not protrude, and the outer surface of the elastic sleeve 7 is in its minimum volume state.

[0105] Figure 32 A perspective view of the pump assembly is shown, in its second state, where the elastic sleeve 7 is at its maximum volume. This state is achieved through the following process: The pressure cap housing 13 rotates, driving the main shaft sleeve 12 to rotate through the engagement of the groove 13b and multiple torsion ribs on the outer surface of the nine-way transmission end 12b of the main shaft sleeve 12. The main shaft sleeve 12 drives the main shaft 9 to rotate through the engagement of the inner diameter surface of the through hole 12a of the insertion end 12c with the outer diameter surface and lower end 9a of the main shaft 9. The main shaft 9 drives the roller bracket 5 to rotate through the engagement of the shaft pin 18 with the roller bracket 5. The roller 4 mounted on the roller bracket 5 moves relative to the inner surface 7a of the elastic sleeve 7 (this movement includes both rolling and sliding, reducing sliding friction compared to existing technologies). Because the elastic strips 7d on both sides of the elastic sleeve 7 are fixed inside the closed groove formed by the fixing groove 6a of the perforated bracket 6 and the fixing groove 8a of the column bracket 8, the elastic sleeve 7 cannot rotate with the roller 4. Figure 5 The roller assembly shown gradually supports the middle part 7e of the elastic sleeve 7. When Figure 5When the radial long side of the roller assembly and the radial long side of the elastic sleeve 7 form a 90° angle, the middle part 7e of the elastic sleeve 7 protrudes to its maximum volume state. Then, as the pressure cover housing 13 rotates, the outer surface of the elastic sleeve 7 gradually returns to its minimum volume state, and this cycle repeats.

[0106] Figure 33 A perspective view of a toner container is shown, without the pump assembly. The toner container includes a toner container head 1 and a toner container body 2, which can rotate relative to each other, with a sealing structure at the rotation interface. The lower end of the toner container body 2 (the end closest to the toner container head 1) has a gear 2d, which rotates when driven by a motor from the device end. The toner container head 1 is fixed to the device end and does not rotate with the toner container body 2. The upper port of the toner container body 2 has an external thread 2a and a port surface 2c.

[0107] Figure 34 A perspective view of the toner container is shown. The pump assembly of the present invention is installed in this toner container. The pump assembly is loaded into the toner container body 2. The pressure cap 11 is tightened and fixed to the external thread 2a of the toner container body 2 via its thread 11c. An elastic sealing ring 16 is pressed between the port face 2c of the toner cartridge container 2 and the inner side of the sealing cap 10g of the elastic lower plug 10, forming a seal. The pump assembly is fixed relative to the toner container body 2 and can rotate synchronously with the toner container body 2. Simultaneously, the fixing rib 13d of the pressure cap housing 13 is fixed to the device end, preventing the pressure cap housing 13 from rotating with the toner container body 2 and the pump assembly.

[0108] Figure 35 An axial cross-sectional view of the device assembly is shown in one state, in which the elastic sleeve is in its minimum volume state and the middle portion 7e of the elastic sleeve 7 is in a recessed state. Figure 36 An axial cross-sectional view of another state of the device assembly is shown, in which the elastic sleeve is in its maximum volume state and the middle part 7e of the elastic sleeve 7 is in a convex state.

[0109] Figure 37 A radial cross-sectional view of the device assembly is shown in one state, in which the elastic sleeve is in its minimum volume state, the middle part 7e of the elastic sleeve 7 is in a recessed state, and the elastic sleeve 7 does not compress the internal air of the toner container body 2. When the gear 2d of the toner container body 2 receives the power of the drive motor at the device end and rotates along the direction F in the figure, the pump assembly rotates with the toner container body 2. Because Figure 5The roller assembly shown is fixed relative to the main shaft 9, and the main shaft 9 is fixed relative to the pressure cap housing 13 via the main shaft sleeve 12. The pressure cap housing 13 is fixed to the device end via the fixing rib 13d, and the pressure cap housing 13 does not rotate with the toner container body 2. The middle part 7e of the elastic sleeve 7 gradually bulges out. When rotated 90° in the F direction, the middle part 7e of the elastic sleeve 7 is in its maximum volume state. Figure 38 A radial cross-sectional view of another state of the device assembly is shown, in which the elastic sleeve is in its maximum volume state, compressing the internal air inside the toner container body 2.

[0110] Figure 39 This is a perspective view of the device assembly. The toner container head 1 has an opening 1a communicating with the toner container body 2 and is fixed to the device end, always facing downwards. When the toner container body 2 rotates, the pump assembly starts working, continuously compressing and expanding the air inside the toner container body 2. Airflow continuously exits and enters through the opening 1a of the toner container head 1. Toner inside the toner container body 2 is transported to the area above the opening 1a of the toner container head 1 via threads. When the airflow flows outward at the opening 1a, it ejects toner and supplies it to the device for consumption. When airflow enters through the opening 1a of the toner container head 1, toner is replenished above the opening 1a. This cycle continues until all the toner inside the toner container body 2 is discharged, creating a stable toner supply to the device end.

[0111] The device of this invention has been assembled into a sample and tested in operation. The toner delivery efficiency data is superior to that of its competitors. When actually installed in a photocopying device, even if toner is left to accumulate for a long time, it can still supply toner normally without any problems after startup.

[0112] The embodiments described above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention. The terms "in one embodiment," "in another embodiment," "in yet another embodiment," or "in still another embodiment" used in this specification all refer to one or more of the same or different embodiments according to this disclosure. Ordinary variations and substitutions made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A toner supply device for a toner container, mounted inside the toner container, characterized in that, include: The roller assembly and the pump body assembly are located inside the pump body assembly. The two move relative to each other. The change in their relative positions caused by the movement alters the size of the internal space of the pump body assembly, causing a change in the air pressure inside the toner container, thereby delivering toner.

2. The toner supply device for a toner container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pump assembly has an airflow channel at one end and is closed at the other end.

3. The toner supply device for a toner container according to claim 2, characterized in that, The roller assembly includes: Roller, which has a roller axle position; A roller bracket has a roller connector that engages with a roller axle, and the roller is located on the side of the roller bracket. A main shaft passes through the roller bracket and is fixed to the roller bracket radially and axially. When the main shaft rotates, it can drive the roller bracket to rotate, and the roller bracket rotates relative to the roller.

4. The toner supply device for a toner container according to claim 3, characterized in that, The roller bracket has two rollers symmetrically connected on both sides, and the roller bracket has a central channel. The main shaft has a pin and a retaining ring. The main shaft passes through the central hole of the roller bracket and is axially fixed to the roller bracket by the pin. The main shaft is radially fixed to the roller bracket by the retaining ring being engaged in the groove of the central hole.

5. The toner supply device for a toner container according to claim 3, characterized in that, The pump assembly includes: An elastic sleeve is fitted onto the roller assembly and conforms to the outer surface of the roller assembly; An elastic sleeve with a plug is inserted, which passes through the upper end of the main shaft of the roller assembly and blocks the upper end of the elastic sleeve, thus sealing the upper end. The lower end of the elastic sleeve is blocked by the lower end of the main shaft of the roller assembly, and the airflow channel is located at the center of the lower end of the elastic sleeve. When the main shaft rotates, the rollers of the roller assembly roll relative to the elastic sleeve, causing the elastic sleeve to change between protrusions and depressions.

6. The toner supply device for a toner container according to claim 5, characterized in that, The pump body assembly includes a perforated bracket and a column bracket, which are semi-circular cylindrical structures. When the two are fastened together, the elastic sleeve of the pump body assembly is sandwiched in the middle.

7. The toner supply device for a toner container according to claim 6, characterized in that, The two ends of the perforated bracket and the column bracket are fitted with elastic upper plugs and elastic lower plugs, which are pressed and sealed with the elastic sleeves.

8. The toner supply device for a toner container according to claim 7, characterized in that, The two ends of the perforated bracket and the column bracket are respectively fixed to the upper end cap and the lower end cap of the elastic sleeve, so that when the main shaft rotates, the perforated bracket and the column bracket rotate accordingly.

9. The toner supply device for a toner container according to claim 5, characterized in that, The pump body assembly includes an elastic sealing ring, which is placed between the lower end of the elastic sleeve and the lower plug of the elastic sleeve to seal the periphery of the elastic sleeve, so that airflow only enters and exits through the airflow channel.

10. The toner supply device for a toner container according to claim 7, characterized in that, The pump assembly includes a pressure cap that passes through the lower end of the main shaft and presses against the outside of the lower plug of the elastic sleeve, with the inner part of the pressure cap fixed to the toner container.

11. The toner supply device for a toner container according to claim 10, characterized in that, The pump body assembly includes: a gland housing, the upper end of which is rotatably fixed to the lower end of the gland, such that the gland housing can rotate relative to the gland.

12. The toner supply device for a toner container according to claim 11, characterized in that, The pump body assembly includes a main shaft sleeve, which connects the gland and the gland housing. The main shaft sleeve includes: The plug-in end is fitted onto the lower end of the main shaft that passes through the gland, and the two ends are torsionally connected to each other; The torque transmission end mates with the slot in the gland housing to transmit torque to the gland housing.

13. The toner supply device for a toner container according to claim 11, characterized in that, The pump body assembly includes a housing handle, which is fixed to the lower end of the gland housing and covers a portion of the gland housing.

14. The toner supply device for a toner container according to claim 5, characterized in that, When the roller assembly and the pump body assembly are at a relative angle of 90 degrees, the elastic sleeve protrudes; when the roller assembly and the pump body assembly are at a relative angle of 0 degrees, the elastic sleeve is recessed.

15. The toner supply device for a toner container according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the roller assembly and the pump body assembly are at a relative angle of 90 degrees, the internal space of the pump body assembly is at its maximum, and the air pressure inside the toner container is at its maximum; when the relative position of the roller assembly and the pump body assembly is at a relative angle of 0 degrees, the internal space of the pump body assembly is at its minimum, and the air pressure inside the toner container is at its minimum.

16. The toner supply device for a toner container according to claim 2, characterized in that, The toner container's outlet for discharging toner is located on the side away from the airflow channel.

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