A printer ink cartridge and printing system

Abstract

This invention provides a printer ink cartridge, relating to the field of printer technology. The invention aims to solve the problems of poor connection reliability, cumbersome operation, and ink leakage risk associated with existing ink cartridges. The printer ink cartridge includes a cartridge body, independent chambers disposed within the cartridge body, and connection holes communicating with the independent chambers. The key feature is the provision of a self-sealing connection structure for each independent chamber, allowing for detachable connection with an external quick-connect fitting. This structure includes: a sealing component installed inside the connection hole, comprising a valve core and a first elastic element, for sealing the connection hole when not connected; and a locking component for locking the external quick-connect fitting outside the connection hole. The locking component is configured to automatically lock the external quick-connect fitting during insertion into the connection hole. By integrating self-sealing and automatic locking functions, this invention not only effectively prevents ink leakage but also achieves a quick and stable connection, improving operational convenience and reliability.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of printer technology, and more particularly to a printer ink cartridge and a printing system incorporating the printer ink cartridge. Background Technology

[0002] Printer ink cartridges are a key component of inkjet printing systems. To prevent ink leakage during cartridge replacement or ink path maintenance, existing technologies have proposed incorporating self-sealing valves at the ink outlet of the cartridge. For example, one solution employs a valve structure consisting of a valve core, a sealing ring, and an elastic element. In the unconnected state, the elastic element pushes the valve core to close the ink outlet, achieving a seal.

[0003] However, this design only solves the basic sealing problem. In practical use, the reliability of the ink path connection is just as important as the ease of operation. Existing connection methods usually rely on simple friction or snap-fit ​​fixing, which poses a risk of loosening or detachment under long-term printer vibration or accidental contact, leading to printing failures or even ink leakage. In addition, for multi-color printing systems that require frequent maintenance, the connection and unlocking process is often cumbersome, lacking an integrated solution that can achieve fast, stable, and automatic locking. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a printer ink cartridge and printing system that can not only effectively prevent ink leakage when disconnecting the ink path, but also achieve fast and stable automatic locking when connected, so as to improve the convenience, reliability and safety of maintenance operations.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention provides a printer ink cartridge, comprising: a cartridge body; at least two mutually isolated independent chambers disposed within the cartridge body, each independent chamber being used to contain ink; the cartridge body having a plurality of connection holes for each independent chamber; and further comprising a self-sealing connection structure for detachable connection with an external quick connector, the self-sealing connection structure comprising: a sealing component, installed inside the corresponding connection hole, including a valve core, a sealing ring, and a first elastic element, the valve core being axially slidably installed in the connection hole, the sealing ring being installed at one end of the valve core to close the connection hole, and the first elastic element... An elastic element is sleeved on the valve core, with its two ends abutting against the step of the connection hole and the flange of the valve core. The first elastic element is used to drive the valve core to move the sealing ring toward the position that closes the connection hole when the self-sealing connection structure is not connected to the external quick connector. The sealing assembly is configured to be pushed by the external quick connector to open the connection hole when the external quick connector is inserted. A locking assembly is used to detachably lock the external quick connector to the outer end of the connection hole. The locking assembly is configured to automatically lock the external quick connector in conjunction with the external quick connector during the insertion of the external quick connector into the connection hole.

[0006] Optionally, the locking component includes:

[0007] A locking piece is slidably mounted on the housing;

[0008] The second elastic element is used to drive the locking piece to move to the locking position;

[0009] A locking post, slidably mounted on the housing, slides in a direction perpendicular to the sliding direction of the locking piece, for selectively restricting the movement of the locking piece; and

[0010] The third elastic element is used to drive the locking pin to reset;

[0011] The external quick connector is provided with a locking groove for engaging with the locking plate.

[0012] Furthermore, the locking plate has a tube hole for the external quick connector to pass through, as well as an unlocking hole and a locking hole that cooperate with the locking post.

[0013] Furthermore, the locking post has at least two stepped sections of different diameters to engage with the unlocking hole and the locking hole respectively, thereby switching between locked and unlocked states.

[0014] Optionally, the valve core is a pipe fitting that is closed at one end and open at the other end, the sealing ring is installed on the closed end of the pipe fitting, the external quick connector abuts against the open end of the pipe fitting, and an inlet hole is provided on the peripheral wall of the pipe fitting.

[0015] Optionally, it also includes a heating assembly for heating the ink in the independent chamber, and a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature to control the heating assembly.

[0016] Optionally, the independent chamber is also equipped with a level sensor for detecting the ink level.

[0017] Optionally, the housing is provided with wiring terminals for electrical connection with external devices.

[0018] The present invention also provides a printing system, including a printer body and a printer cartridge as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein the printer body is provided with an external quick connector that mates with the self-sealing connection structure of the printer cartridge.

[0019] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0020] 1. By setting a sealing assembly that drives the valve core with the first elastic element, it is ensured that the connection hole can be immediately closed the moment the external quick connector is pulled out, thereby effectively preventing ink leakage and making ink cartridge replacement or ink circuit maintenance operations cleaner and safer.

[0021] 2. By incorporating a locking mechanism that automatically locks in conjunction with an external quick-connect fitting, the connection process is simplified, eliminating the need for additional manual tightening and improving maintenance efficiency. Simultaneously, this mechanical locking structure ensures a stable connection, effectively resisting vibrations during printing and preventing accidental loosening, thus guaranteeing the continuity and stability of printing operations.

[0022] 3. By integrating the self-sealing function and the automatic locking function into an integrated self-sealing connection structure, the overall structure of the ink cartridge is more compact. While achieving reliable connection and safe leakage prevention, the structure is simplified and manufacturing is facilitated. Attached Figure Description

[0023] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the overall structure of the printer ink cartridge according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of a printer ink cartridge according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 3 This is a top view of a printer ink cartridge according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the printer ink cartridge before locking during the insertion of the external quick connector, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the printer ink cartridge after the external quick connector is inserted and locked in place according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the valve core structure according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the locking plate structure according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the locking column structure according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] In the diagram: 1. Box body; 10. Independent chamber; 11. Connection hole; 2. Self-sealing connection structure; 21. Sealing assembly; 211. Valve core; 212. Sealing ring; 213. First elastic element; 22. External quick connector; 220. Locking groove; 23. Locking assembly; 231. Locking piece; 2110. Liquid inlet; 2311. Pipe hole; 2312. Unlocking hole; 2313. Locking hole; 232. Second elastic element; 233. Third elastic element; 234. Locking post; 2341. First stepped section; 2342. Second stepped section; 30. Liquid level sensor; 100. Electrical terminal block. Detailed Implementation

[0033] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the present invention clearer, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The described embodiments should not be regarded as limitations on the present invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0034] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in the embodiments of this invention have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. The terminology used in the embodiments of this invention is for descriptive purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention.

[0035] Before providing a further detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention, some of the nouns and terms involved in the embodiments of the present invention will be explained, and the nouns and terms involved in the embodiments of the present invention shall be interpreted as follows.

[0036] (1) Self-sealing connection structure: refers to an integrated structure for detachably connecting printer ink cartridges to external fluid lines (through external quick connectors). Its core function is to automatically seal the ink cartridge connection hole to prevent ink leakage when not connected; and to automatically and reliably lock the cartridge in conjunction with the external quick connector during connection.

[0037] (2) Sealing component: refers to the sub-component responsible for achieving the "self-sealing" function in the self-sealing connection structure. It is usually installed inside the connection hole and includes at least a valve core, a sealing ring and a first elastic element. The sealing ring on the valve core is driven by the elastic force of the first elastic element to close the connection hole.

[0038] (3) Locking component: refers to the sub-component in the self-sealing connection structure responsible for realizing the "automatic locking" function. It is configured to automatically lock the external quick connector through mechanical linkage during the process of inserting the external quick connector into the connection hole to ensure the stability of the connection.

[0039] (4) External quick connector: refers to the connector component located on one side of the printer body, used to mate with the self-sealing connection structure on the printer ink cartridge. Its insertion action can not only open the sealing component to connect the ink path, but also trigger the automatic locking of the locking component.

[0040] Please see Figure 1 This invention provides a printer ink cartridge designed to address the problems of cumbersome connection operations, poor connection reliability, and ink leakage risks in existing ink cartridges. Through an integrated design, this printer ink cartridge achieves rapid ink path connection, self-locking, and automatic sealing upon disconnection.

[0041] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the printer ink cartridge includes a housing 1. The housing 1 serves as the overall frame of the ink cartridge, providing installation space and structural support for internal components. Inside the housing 1, at least two isolated independent chambers 10 are provided. These independent chambers 10 are physically separated by partitions located inside the housing 1, ensuring that inks of different colors or types do not mix, thereby guaranteeing the accuracy of printed colors. Each independent chamber 10 is used to hold a specific color of ink, such as cyan, magenta, yellow, or black.

[0042] In order to export the ink in the independent chamber 10 to the printer, the housing 1 has multiple connection holes 11 for each independent chamber 10, such as nine connection holes 11 for each independent chamber 10, which are connected to nine printheads respectively.

[0043] The core of this invention lies in providing a self-sealing connection structure 2 for each of the independent chambers 10. This self-sealing connection structure 2 is used for a detachable fluid connection with the external quick connector 22 on the printer body. This structure integrates both sealing and locking functions, ensuring convenience, reliability, and safety in the connection process.

[0044] Specifically, the self-sealing connection structure 2 includes a sealing component 21 and a locking component 23. These two components work together to achieve the core functions of "self-sealing" and "automatic locking," respectively.

[0045] Reference Figures 4 to 6 The sealing assembly 21 is installed inside the corresponding connection hole 11. The sealing assembly 21 includes a valve core 211, a sealing ring 212, and a first elastic element 213. The valve core 211 is axially slidably installed in the connection hole 11. The sealing ring 212 is installed at one end of the valve core 211 to close the connection hole 11. The first elastic element 213 is sleeved on the valve core 211, and its two ends abut against the step of the connection hole 11 and the flange of the valve core 211. The valve core 211 is a cylindrical or conical component that can slide axially within the connection hole 11. Preferably, the valve core 211 is a pipe with one end closed and the other end open. The sealing ring 212 is installed at the closed end of the pipe. An external quick connector 22 abuts against the open end of the pipe. An inlet hole 2110 is provided on the peripheral wall of the pipe. When the external quick connector 22 pushes against the valve core 211, causing the sealing ring 212 to open the connection hole 11, the ink in the independent chamber 10 flows into the external quick connector 22 through the connection hole 11 and the inlet hole 2110. The sealing ring 212, such as an O-ring, is typically made of a corrosion-resistant elastic material and is fitted or installed on the end of the valve core 211 to close it. The first elastic element 213, such as a compression spring, rests at one end against the step of the connection hole 11 and at the other end against the flange of the valve core 211.

[0046] In its natural state when the self-sealing connection structure 2 is not connected to the external quick connector 22, the first elastic element 213 is in a pre-compressed state, and its stored elastic energy continuously drives the valve core 211 to move toward the position that closes the connection hole 11. In this position, the sealing ring 212 on the valve core 211 fits tightly against the inner wall or port edge of the connection hole 11, thereby reliably sealing the ink path and effectively preventing ink in the independent chamber 10 from flowing out due to gravity or air pressure difference. This design achieves automatic sealing of the ink cartridge during storage, transportation, or replacement, avoiding contamination and waste caused by ink leakage.

[0047] When an ink supply connection needs to be established, the external quick connector 22 is inserted from the outside of the connection hole 11. The front end of the external quick connector 22 is designed to abut against and push the valve core 211. As the external quick connector 22 is inserted, its thrust overcomes the elastic force of the first elastic element 213, forcing the valve core 211 to move into the independent chamber 10, thereby disengaging the sealing ring 212 from its sealing position and opening the connection hole 11. At this time, the ink in the independent chamber 10 can flow into the fluid channel inside the external quick connector 22 through the gap between the valve core 211 and the connection hole 11, thus establishing a complete ink supply path.

[0048] Meanwhile, the self-sealing connection structure 2 also includes a locking component 23. The locking component 23 is installed on the housing 1, and its function is to detachably lock the external quick connector 22 to the outer end of the connection hole 11 after it is inserted into place, so as to prevent it from loosening or falling off under the action of printer vibration or accidental external force.

[0049] A key feature of the locking assembly 23 is its automatic locking function. It is configured to mechanically lock itself during the insertion of the external quick-connect fitting 22 into the connection hole 11, eliminating the need for additional rotation, pressing, or latching actions by the operator. This "plug and lock" design greatly simplifies the installation process and improves operational efficiency and convenience.

[0050] In terms of working principle, when the external quick connector 22 is inserted, a specific structure on its outer wall (such as a boss) will contact and interfere with a movable part inside the locking assembly 23. This interference will trigger a series of preset mechanical actions inside the locking assembly 23, ultimately causing a locking element to move to a predetermined position, locking or hooking the external quick connector 22, thereby completing the locking. When unlocking is required, the locking element is released by a specific manual operation (such as pressing the unlock button or sliding a part), thereby allowing the external quick connector 22 to be smoothly pulled out.

[0051] In summary, the printer cartridge provided in this embodiment integrates the sealing component 21 and the locking component 23 with automatic locking function into the self-sealing connection structure 2. This not only reliably prevents ink leakage when disconnecting, ensuring clean and safe operation, but also enables fast and stable automatic locking when connecting, significantly improving the reliability of the connection and the convenience of maintenance, thus solving the key problems existing in the background art.

[0052] Furthermore, such as Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, a preferred mechanical implementation of the locking assembly 23 described above will be described in detail. In this embodiment, the locking assembly 23 includes a slidable locking piece 231, a second elastic member 232, a third elastic member 233, and a locking post 234.

[0053] The locking piece 231 is a plate-shaped component that can slide up and down within a pre-set guide rail on the housing 1. The second elastic element 232, such as a compression spring, abuts against the spring hole of the housing 1 and the bottom end of the locking piece 231, continuously applying a downward elastic force to it, causing it to tend to move to the locked position. The locking post 234 is a columnar component that can slide in a direction perpendicular to the sliding direction of the locking piece 231 (e.g., horizontally). The third elastic element 233 is installed between the guide hole of the housing 1 and the locking post 234, and is used to drive the locking post 234 to return to its original position.

[0054] Reference Figure 4 In the initial unlocked state, the locking post 234 is in the extended position under the action of the third elastic member 233, and part of its structure jams the locking piece 231, restricting the sliding of the locking piece 231 under the elastic force of the second elastic member 232, so that it remains in the unlocked position.

[0055] When the external quick connector 22 is inserted, a protrusion on its outer wall pushes the locking pin 234, causing it to move inward against the elastic force of the third elastic element 233. When the locking pin 234 moves to a specific position, its restriction on the locking piece 231 is released. At this time, the second elastic element 232, which is in a standby state, immediately releases its elastic energy, pushing the locking piece 231 to slide downward automatically.

[0056] Reference Figure 5 The sliding of the locking piece 231 causes a structure on it (such as the edge of a hole) to engage with a pre-set locking groove 220 on the external quick connector 22. Once engaged, the external quick connector 22 is securely locked axially and cannot be pulled out. This completes the automatic locking process. To unlock, the operator simply needs to manually move the locking piece 231 in the reverse direction to disengage it from the locking groove 220, allowing the external quick connector 22 to be pulled out. During the unlocking process, the third elastic element 233 pushes the locking pin 234 to reset, preparing for the next automatic locking.

[0057] This purely mechanical automatic locking solution, which utilizes the coordinated action of multiple elastic elements and linkages (locking pins and locking plates), boasts a reliable structure, clear operation, simple design, and ease of manufacturing, thus enhancing the product's practicality and durability. Its technical advantage lies in achieving a locking process completely free of human intervention, ensuring that the preset locking force is achieved with each connection, and avoiding the risk of insecure connections due to human error.

[0058] In one possible implementation, the locking assembly described above is not unique. For example, the locking assembly can employ a rotational locking mechanism. Specifically, a rotatable locking ring driven by a torsion spring can be provided around the connecting hole, and a helical guide groove can be provided on the external quick connector. When the quick connector is inserted, its linear motion forces the locking ring to rotate through the guide groove, and after passing a locking point, it is automatically locked under the action of the torsion spring. Furthermore, the second elastic element 232 and the third elastic element 233 constituting the locking assembly are not limited to helical springs; they can be leaf springs, torsion springs, or elastic rubber blocks, or any other element capable of providing and storing elastic energy. These variations can all achieve the same automatic locking function.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment, refer to Figure 7 To achieve the aforementioned locking and unlocking switching, the locking plate 231 has holes with specific functions. Specifically, it has a tube hole 2311 for the external quick connector 22 to pass through, and an unlocking hole 2312 and a locking hole 2313 that mate with the locking post 234. The size of the tube hole 2311 matches the outer diameter of the external quick connector 22, serving as a guide and positioning element. The unlocking hole 2312 and the locking hole 2313 are typically interconnected irregularly shaped holes with different sizes or shapes. The width of the unlocking hole 2312 is greater than the width of the locking hole 2313, allowing them to mate with different parts of the locking post 234 in different states. The tube hole 2311, the unlocking hole 2312, and the locking hole 2313 are arranged sequentially along the height direction of the locking plate 231.

[0060] The technical advantage of these specially designed holes lies in achieving complex logic control through the interaction of purely geometric shapes. The larger unlocking hole 2312 allows a specific portion of the locking pin 234 to pass through, enabling the locking plate 231 to move to the unlocked position. Conversely, the smaller locking hole 2313 creates interference when the specific portion of the locking pin 234 aligns with it, thus locking the locking plate 231 in its current position. This design embeds the state-switching logic into the geometry of the components, resulting in high reliability.

[0061] Furthermore, such as Figure 8 As shown, in conjunction with the hole on the aforementioned locking plate 231, the locking pin 234 has at least two stepped segments of different diameters, such as a first stepped segment 2341 and a second stepped segment 2342. The design of these stepped segments is key to achieving the switching between locked and unlocked states.

[0062] Specifically, one stepped segment of the locking pin 234 (e.g., the smaller-diameter second stepped segment 2342) can pass through the locking hole 2313 on the locking plate 231, while another stepped segment (e.g., the larger-diameter first stepped segment 2341) cannot pass through the locking hole 2313, but can pass through or be accommodated in the unlocking hole 2312. The axial position of the locking pin 234 can be controlled by inserting the external quick connector 22 or by manual operation during unlocking, thereby determining whether the first stepped segment 2341 or the second stepped segment 2342 aligns with the hole on the locking plate 231, thus allowing or restricting the movement of the locking plate 231 and completing the precise switching between locked and unlocked states. This combination of stepped segments and irregularly shaped holes constitutes a reliable mechanical interlock design, ensuring the stability of the locked state and the smooth execution of the unlocking action.

[0063] In another preferred embodiment, such as Figure 2 As shown, the printer cartridge of the present invention may further include a heating assembly for heating the ink within the independent chamber 10, and a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature to control the heating assembly. Exemplarily, the heating assembly may be one or more heating plates attached to the bottom of the cartridge body 1. The temperature sensor (not shown) may be disposed close to the wall of the independent chamber 10 to accurately measure the ink temperature.

[0064] The added heating and temperature control function ensures that the ink remains within a constant, preset viscosity range during use. Ink viscosity directly affects print quality; excessively high or low viscosity can lead to poor ink flow or uneven droplet diffusion. Through active heating and precise temperature control, the ink cartridge of this invention can adapt to different ambient temperatures, providing the printer with stable ink, thereby significantly improving print stability and final image quality.

[0065] In one possible implementation, such as Figure 2 As shown, a level sensor 30 for detecting ink level can also be installed in the independent chamber 10. This level sensor 30 can monitor the amount of ink remaining in the corresponding chamber in real time and transmit the signal to the printer's main control system.

[0066] The advantage of incorporating the liquid level sensor 30 is that it enables precise management of ink levels. Users can clearly see the remaining status of each color ink cartridge, preventing interruptions due to ink depletion during important printing tasks. Simultaneously, the printer system can intelligently control ink supply or issue early replacement reminders based on precise liquid level information, improving printing continuity and the system's overall intelligence.

[0067] Furthermore, the liquid level sensor 30 can be a float-type sensor. This sensor includes a float that can float up and down in the ink, with the float's position changing according to the liquid level. The position signal is converted into an electrical signal through magnetic induction, leverage, or optics. The advantage of using a float-type sensor is its simple structure and reliable operation.

[0068] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, to provide power and signal transmission channels for the aforementioned electrical components such as the heating assembly, temperature sensor, and liquid level sensor, the housing 1 is also equipped with electrical terminals 100 for electrical connection with external devices (i.e., the printer body). These electrical terminals 100 can be designed as gold fingers, Pogo pins, or other reliable electrical connectors. The technical advantage is that it builds a bridge between the internal electronic system of the ink cartridge and the printer's main control system, making the ink cartridge no longer a purely passive ink storage container, but an intelligent component capable of interacting with the printer.

[0069] In a specific example, such as Figure 2 As shown, the number of independent chambers 10 can be four. The technical advantage of this design is that it can be adapted to inkjet printers using a CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, black) four-color system. Of course, the technical solution of this invention is not limited to this; by increasing or decreasing the number of independent chambers, it can be easily extended to six-color, eight-color, or even more-color professional photo printers or industrial printing systems, demonstrating the good scalability of the solution.

[0070] This invention also provides a printing system comprising a printer body and a printer cartridge as described in any of the foregoing embodiments. The key feature of this printing system is that the printer body is provided with an external quick-connector 22 that mates with the self-sealing connection structure 2 of the printer cartridge. This design considers the cartridge and printer as a whole, ensuring functional compatibility between the two.

[0071] The technical solution of the present invention will be described in more detail below through a specific embodiment.

[0072] In one specific embodiment, a printer ink cartridge is provided. This ink cartridge integrates functions such as self-sealing, automatic locking, heating temperature control, and liquid level monitoring.

[0073] The box body 1 is injection molded from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) material, which has good chemical resistance and structural strength. The interior is divided into four independent chambers 10 by partitions.

[0074] In the self-sealing connection structure 2 corresponding to each chamber, the valve core 211 of the sealing component 21 is made of highly lubricating polyoxymethylene (POM) material to reduce sliding friction; the sealing ring 212 is made of fluororubber (FKM) material with excellent corrosion resistance; the first elastic element 213 is a compression spring made of 304 stainless steel to ensure stable elasticity under long-term use.

[0075] The locking plate 231 and locking post 234 of its locking assembly 23 are both made of high-strength engineering plastics (such as PA66+GF) to ensure mechanical strength and wear resistance. The second elastic element 232 and the third elastic element 233 are also stainless steel springs.

[0076] At the bottom of the ink cartridge, a 5W flexible polyimide (PI) heating film is attached as a heating element, and an NTC thermistor is provided as a temperature sensor to precisely control the ink temperature at 25±2℃.

[0077] Each independent chamber 10 is equipped with a magnetic float-type liquid level sensor 30, which can provide high and low liquid level signals.

[0078] All electrical components, including the heating element, temperature sensor, and level sensor 30, are connected via a flexible printed circuit board (FPC) to a row of 8 gold-plated spring-loaded electrical terminals 100 on the side of the housing 1 to ensure a long-term reliable electrical connection with the printer body.

[0079] This embodiment describes the complete workflow of a printer cartridge integrating preferred technical features to demonstrate the synergistic effect between the various technical features. The cartridge has four independent chambers 10 and is equipped with a precision locking assembly 23 consisting of a locking plate 231, a locking post 234, stepped sections (first stepped section 2341, second stepped section 2342), and specific holes (tube hole 2311, unlocking hole 2312, locking hole 2313). It also integrates a heating assembly (heating element), a float-type liquid level sensor 30, and electrical terminals 100.

[0080] First, when installing the ink cartridge, the operator pushes the cartridge into the printer's ink tank. Multiple external quick-connectors 22 on the printer body align with the tube holes 2311 of the multiple self-sealing connection structures 2 on the ink cartridge. As the cartridge is pushed in, the front end of the external quick-connector 22 first pushes open the valve core 211, overcoming the elastic force of the first elastic element 213 and opening the ink path. Almost simultaneously, the outer wall of the external quick-connector 22 pushes the locking post 234 inward, compressing the third elastic element 233. The movement of the locking post 234 causes its first stepped section 2341 to disengage from the locking piece 231. The second elastic element 232 then pushes the locking piece 231 downward, and the edge of its locking hole 2313 precisely engages in the locking groove 220 of the external quick-connector 22, thus locking the locking element into place, marking the completion of physical locking. Simultaneously, the electrical terminals 100 on the ink cartridge also fully contact the corresponding terminals on the printer body, establishing an electrical connection.

[0081] During printer operation, the main control board first reads the signals from the four liquid level sensors 30 via the electrical terminal block 100 to confirm sufficient ink volume. Next, it reads the signal from the temperature sensor. If the ink temperature is lower than a preset value (e.g., 23°C), it supplies power to the heating element via the electrical terminal block 100 until the temperature reaches the set value (e.g., 25°C), thus ensuring stable ink viscosity. Because the locking assembly 23 provides a robust mechanical lock, high-speed vibrations during printing are less likely to affect the reliability of the ink path and electrical connections.

[0082] When the ink cartridge needs to be replaced, the operator pushes the protrusion of the locking piece 231 upwards. The locking piece 231 slides upwards against the elastic force of the second elastic element 232, and its locking hole 2313 disengages from the locking groove 220, releasing the lock on the external quick connector 22. During the upward sliding of the locking piece 231, its internal unlocking hole 2312 aligns with the first stepped section 2341 of the locking post 234, and the compressed third elastic element 233 pushes the locking post 234 outwards to reset, keeping the locking piece 231 in the unlocked position. At this time, the operator can easily pull the ink cartridge out of the printer. The moment the external quick connector 22 disengages from the connection hole 11, the first elastic element 213 immediately pushes the valve core 211 to reset, and the sealing ring 212 closes the connection hole 11 again, effectively preventing ink leakage.

[0083] This embodiment achieves significant comprehensive technical benefits by combining the aforementioned technical features. First, compared to ink cartridges with only basic sealing functions, its connection reliability is significantly improved, effectively preventing print failures caused by vibration-induced loosening. Second, compared to ink cartridges requiring manual rotation or snap-fit, its installation efficiency is significantly improved, avoiding human-caused malfunctions due to insufficient or excessive tightening force. Furthermore, the integration of heating and liquid level monitoring functions enhances print quality and system intelligence, especially in professional fields with high requirements for color consistency. The synergistic effect of these technical features ultimately results in a reliable and user-friendly ink supply solution.

Claims

1. A printer ink cartridge, comprising: Box body; At least two mutually isolated independent chambers are provided within the casing, each of the independent chambers being used to contain ink; The box body has multiple connection holes for each of the independent chambers; The feature is that it further includes a self-sealing connection structure for detachable connection with an external quick connector, the self-sealing connection structure comprising: A sealing assembly, installed inside the corresponding connection hole, includes a valve core, a sealing ring, and a first elastic element. The valve core is axially slidably installed in the connection hole. The sealing ring is installed at one end of the valve core to close the connection hole. The first elastic element is sleeved on the valve core, and its two ends abut against the step of the connection hole and the flange of the valve core. The first elastic element is used to drive the valve core to move the sealing ring toward the position of closing the connection hole when the self-sealing connection structure is not connected to the external quick connector. The sealing assembly is configured to be pushed by the external quick connector to open the connection hole when the external quick connector is inserted. A locking assembly for detachably locking the external quick connector to the outer end of the connection hole; The locking component is configured to automatically lock the external quick connector as it is inserted into the connection hole.

2. The printer cartridge according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking component includes: A locking piece is slidably mounted on the housing; The second elastic element is used to drive the locking piece to move to the locking position; A locking post, slidably mounted on the housing, slides in a direction perpendicular to the sliding direction of the locking piece, for selectively restricting the movement of the locking piece; and The third elastic element is used to drive the locking pin to reset; The external quick connector is provided with a locking groove for engaging with the locking plate.

3. The printer cartridge according to claim 2, characterized in that, The locking plate has a tube hole for the external quick connector to pass through, as well as an unlocking hole and a locking hole that cooperate with the locking post.

4. The printer cartridge according to claim 3, characterized in that, The size of the tube hole matches the outer diameter of the external quick connector. The unlocking hole and the locking hole are connected. The width of the unlocking hole is greater than the width of the locking hole, which is used to cooperate with different parts of the locking post in different states. The tube hole, unlocking hole and locking hole are arranged sequentially along the height direction of the locking plate.

5. The printer cartridge according to claim 3, characterized in that, The locking pin has at least two stepped sections of different diameters to engage with the unlocking hole and the locking hole respectively, thereby switching between locked and unlocked states.

6. The printer cartridge according to claim 1, characterized in that, The valve core is a pipe fitting that is closed at one end and open at the other end. The sealing ring is installed on the closed end of the pipe fitting, and the open end of the pipe fitting is used to abut against the external quick connector. An inlet hole is provided on the peripheral wall of the pipe fitting.

7. The printer cartridge according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a heating assembly for heating the ink in the independent chamber, and a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature to control the heating assembly.

8. The printer cartridge according to claim 1, characterized in that, The independent chamber is also equipped with a level sensor for detecting the ink level.

9. The printer cartridge according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing is equipped with terminals for electrical connection to external devices.

10. A printing system comprising a printer body and a printer cartridge as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The printer body is provided with an external quick connector that mates with the self-sealing connection structure of the printer cartridge.

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