Consumable box

Abstract

The utility model discloses a consumable box which comprises a box body, an avoiding area is arranged on the bottom face of the box body, and the avoiding area is used for avoiding interference of a latch structure in the process that the consumable box is installed on an installation portion of a consumable box receiving component. The locking mechanism is arranged on the bottom surface, the locking mechanism comprises a locking piece, the locking piece is provided with a clamping part protruding towards the outer side of the box body, and the locking piece can move between a locking position and an unlocking position; when the consumable box is installed on the consumable box receiving component, the locking piece moves to the locking position, the clamping part is in limiting fit with the hollow structure on the bottom face of the installation part, and the consumable box is prevented from being disengaged. According to the consumable box, corresponding structures such as a guiding structure and a protruding part on the bottom wall are omitted, and the problems that due to inaccurate alignment of the structures or interference between the structures and a guiding convex rib of printing equipment, installation interference and clamping are caused, and installation can not be conducted in place are fundamentally solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of printing equipment, and more particularly to a consumable box. Background Technology

[0002] A consumable cartridge is a detachable part widely used in printing equipment. It contains ink and should be replaced promptly when the ink is depleted. Printing equipment sprays ink onto paper to create the text or images to be printed.

[0003] There is a type of consumable box with a guide structure in its bottom wall. The guide structure includes a complex-shaped locking track and an unlocking track. The consumable box mounting part of the printing device is provided with a movable latch structure that cooperates with the above-mentioned guide structure. When the consumable box is installed in the mounting part, the latch structure moves along the locking track to the locking position to lock the consumable box. When the consumable box is removed from the consumable box mounting part, the consumable box needs to be pushed forward to release the latch structure from locking the consumable box. Then the latch structure moves along the unlocking track and removes the consumable box backward.

[0004] This type of consumable box with a complex track requires the latching structure to rotate flexibly in order to lock and unlock the consumable box. If the latching structure does not rotate flexibly or there is a problem with the cooperation between the latching structure and the track, problems such as consumable box interference, jamming, and failure to be installed in place may occur, resulting in a poor user experience. Utility Model Content

[0005] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a new consumable box to address the problems of interference, lag, and inability to install the existing consumable box properly, in order to reduce installation difficulty and improve user experience.

[0006] A consumable box is detachably mounted on the mounting portion of a consumable box receiving component along an installation direction. The bottom surface of the mounting portion is provided with a hollow structure and a movable latching structure, comprising:

[0007] The box body includes a front and a back side arranged opposite each other along the length direction, and a top and a bottom side arranged opposite each other along the height direction, the length direction being parallel to the installation direction. The front side is provided with an ink interface and a gas interface for connecting to the consumable box receiving component, and the bottom side is provided with a clearance area for avoiding interference from the latch structure during the process of the consumable box being installed on the mounting part of the consumable box receiving component.

[0008] A locking mechanism is provided on the bottom surface. The locking mechanism includes a locking member with a latching portion protruding toward the outside of the housing. The locking member is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position.

[0009] When the consumable box is installed onto the consumable box receiving component, the locking member moves to the locking position, and the snap-fit ​​part forms a limiting fit with the hollow structure on the bottom surface of the mounting part to prevent the consumable box from detaching.

[0010] In one embodiment, the locking mechanism further includes a first elastic element mounted on the housing for applying an elastic restoring force to the locking element to drive the locking element from the unlocked position to the locked position.

[0011] In one embodiment, a first mounting hole is provided on the bottom surface of the box body. The first mounting hole extends along the height direction. The first elastic member and the locking member are installed in the first mounting hole, and the locking member's snap-fit ​​portion protrudes out of the first mounting hole.

[0012] In one embodiment, the locking mechanism further includes an unlocking component disposed on the housing for moving the locking element from a locked position to an unlocked position.

[0013] In one embodiment, the unlocking assembly includes a lever extending along the mounting direction and rotatably mounted to the housing via a pivot parallel to the width direction of the housing. One downstream end of the lever along the mounting direction is connected to the locking member, and one upstream end of the lever along the mounting direction has a first operating portion exposed on the back side. When downward pressure is applied to the first operating portion, the locking member rotates about the axis of the pivot to the unlocked position.

[0014] In one embodiment, the locking member is movable along the height direction and has a driven portion; the unlocking assembly includes a push rod and a second elastic member, the push rod extends along the installation direction and is movable along the installation direction, a driving portion is provided at one downstream end of the push rod along the installation direction, the driving portion and the driven portion form an inclined surface engagement, one upstream end of the push rod along the installation direction is connected to a second operating portion, the second operating portion is exposed on the back side, and the second elastic member is used to reset the push rod; when a downward pressure is applied to the second operating portion toward the interior of the housing, the push rod moves toward the installation direction, and the locking member is pushed from the locked position to the unlocked position by the inclined surface engagement of the driving portion and the driven portion.

[0015] In one embodiment, the bottom surface is provided with a groove extending through to the back side along the length direction, the push rod is installed in the groove, the second operating part is a pressure plate, the pressure plate is located on the outside of the back side, one end of the pressure plate is pivotally connected to the push rod, and the other end is pivotally connected to the box body, and the second elastic member is disposed between the pressure plate and the box body.

[0016] In one embodiment, the device further includes a chip, and a chip mounting portion recessed toward the back side is provided on the front side of the housing. The chip is disposed in the chip mounting portion and includes an electrical contact surface perpendicular to the front and top surfaces of the housing. A plurality of electrical contact points are provided on the electrical contact surface.

[0017] In one embodiment, when the consumable box is installed to the mounting portion of the consumable box receiving member, the projection of the latch structure in the height direction of the consumable box is located within the projection range of the avoidance area.

[0018] In one embodiment, the avoidance area is a plane perpendicular to the height direction of the box.

[0019] In one embodiment, the avoidance area is located downstream of the locking member along the installation direction.

[0020] The aforementioned consumable box features a clearance area and a locking mechanism on its bottom surface. The clearance area prevents interference from the latch structure during installation of the consumable box onto the mounting portion of the consumable box receiving component. The locking mechanism includes a locking member that can move between a locked and unlocked position and has an outwardly protruding snap-fit ​​portion. When the consumable box is installed onto the consumable box receiving component, the locking member can move to the locked position and form a limiting engagement with the snap-fit ​​(hollow structure) at the bottom of the receiving component, thereby ensuring that the consumable box is securely fixed in the correct position. This design no longer relies on the positioning method of the existing technology, which involves cooperating with the latch structure of the printing device. Therefore, the consumable box eliminates the need for corresponding guide structures on the bottom wall, fundamentally avoiding installation interference, jamming, and inability to install properly caused by inaccurate alignment of these structures or interference with the latch structure of the printing device. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is a structural schematic diagram of the consumable box receiving component installed in a printing device according to the present invention.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the consumable box receiving component installed in a printing device according to the present invention;

[0023] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the consumable box in Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0024] Figure 4 This is a structural schematic diagram of the consumable box from another angle in Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0025] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the decomposition process;

[0026] Figure 6 This is a left view of the consumable box in Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0027] Figure 7 for Figure 6 Cross-sectional view along the AA direction;

[0028] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the consumable cartridge receiving component installed in the printing device according to Embodiment 1.

[0029] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the consumable box in Embodiment 2 of this utility model;

[0030] Figure 10 for Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the decomposition process;

[0031] Figure 11 This is a left view of the consumable box in Embodiment 2 of this utility model;

[0032] Figure 12 for Figure 11 Cross-sectional view along the AA direction;

[0033] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the consumable box in Embodiment 3 of this utility model;

[0034] Figure 14 and Figure 13 A schematic diagram of the decomposition process;

[0035] Figure 15 This is a left view of the consumable box in Embodiment 3 of this utility model;

[0036] Figure 16 for Figure 15 Cross-sectional view along the AA direction;

[0037] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the consumable box in Embodiment 4 of this utility model;

[0038] Figure 18 for Figure 17 A schematic diagram of the decomposition process;

[0039] Figure 19 This is a left view of the consumable box in Embodiment 4 of this utility model;

[0040] Figure 20 for Figure 19 A cross-sectional view of the locking element in the locked position along the AA direction;

[0041] Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional view of the locking component in the unlocked position in Embodiment 4 of this utility model;

[0042] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of the consumable box in Embodiment 5 of this utility model;

[0043] Figure 23 for Figure 22 A schematic diagram of its breakdown.

[0044] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0045] 10: Box body

[0046] 11: Front

[0047] 111: Ink Interface

[0048] 112: Gas Interface

[0049] 113. Chip mounting section

[0050] 12: Back

[0051] 13: Top surface

[0052] 14: Bottom

[0053] 141: Avoidance Zone

[0054] 142: Receiving tank

[0055] 143: First mounting hole

[0056] 144: Slide

[0057] 20: Locking mechanism

[0058] 21: Locking component

[0059] 211: Connector

[0060] 212: Follower part

[0061] 213: Main body

[0062] 214: Shaft

[0063] 30: Unlock Components

[0064] 31: Lever

[0065] 31a: Front end of the lever

[0066] 31b: Rear end of the lever

[0067] 311: First Operations Department

[0068] 32: Rotation pivot

[0069] 33: Putter

[0070] 33a: The front end of the push rod

[0071] 33b: The rear end of the putter

[0072] 331: Drive Unit

[0073] 332: Second Operations Section

[0074] 34: Pressure plate

[0075] 341: Main Body

[0076] 342: Upper arm

[0077] 343: Lower arm

[0078] 344: First pin

[0079] 345: Gap

[0080] 346: Second pin

[0081] 35: First push block

[0082] 351: First inclined plane

[0083] 36: Second push block

[0084] 361: Second slope

[0085] 40: First elastic element

[0086] 41: Second elastic element

[0087] 50. Chip

[0088] 51. Electrical contact surface

[0089] 511. Electrical contact points

[0090] 101: Sliding hole

[0091] 100: Consumables box receiving component

[0092] 110: Installation Department

[0093] 130: Latch structure

[0094] 131: Matching protrusion

[0095] 140: Ink supply interface

[0096] 150: Inflation interface

[0097] 160: Detachment. Detailed Implementation

[0098] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this utility model more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this utility model are described clearly and completely below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the specific details described below are only a part of the embodiments of this utility model, and this utility model can be implemented in many other embodiments different from those described herein. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0099] In this document, when an element is referred to as being "fixed to" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. The directional terms such as "front," "back," "up," and "down" are defined based on the location of the components in the accompanying drawings and their relative positions, and are merely for clarity and convenience in expressing the technical solution. It should be understood that the use of these directional terms should not limit the scope of protection claimed by this utility model.

[0100] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention.

[0101] Example 1

[0102] This utility model provides a consumable box designed to be detachably installed within a consumable box receiving component 100 of a printing device. The consumable box includes a box body 10 and a locking mechanism 20.

[0103] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in the prior art, the consumable cartridge receiving component 100 typically includes multiple mounting portions 110, which are used to hold consumable cartridges of different colors of ink respectively to meet the needs of color printing.

[0104] Each mounting section 110 has a correspondingly swingable latch structure 130 on its bottom surface, and the latch structure 130 is provided with a mating protrusion 131. During the installation of the existing consumable cartridge, the mating protrusion 131 of the latch structure 130 can engage with the locking and unlocking tracks of the consumable cartridge to lock and unlock the consumable cartridge, allowing the consumable cartridge to be installed in the mounting section 110. Each mounting section 110 has an ink supply interface 140 and an air filling interface 150 on its rear wall. During printing, the ink stored inside the consumable cartridge is supplied through the ink interface 111 on the cartridge body 10. Figure 6The ink is output to the ink supply interface 140 in the mounting section 110, and then the ink supply interface 140 further supplies ink to the print head. The print head forms the desired text or pattern by precisely spraying ink onto the printing medium (e.g., paper). In this embodiment, each mounting section 110 of the existing consumable cartridge receiving member 100 has a cutout structure 160 on its bottom surface. This cutout structure 160 functions as a locking mechanism. The consumable cartridge provided in this embodiment is fixed in the mounting section 110 by engaging with this cutout structure 160, as detailed below:

[0105] For a better explanation of the consumable box, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 1-4 Establish a coordinate system: the width direction of the consumable box is the X-axis direction, the length direction of the consumable box is the Y-axis direction, and the height direction of the consumable box is the Z-axis direction. The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are perpendicular to each other.

[0106] The +Y axis points in the direction of the consumable box installation. The consumable box can be installed into the mounting part of the ink cartridge receiving structure along the installation direction. The disassembly direction of the consumable box is opposite to the installation direction.

[0107] Please also refer to Figures 3-6 In this embodiment, the consumable cartridge body 10 includes a front surface 11 and a back surface 12 arranged opposite each other along the length direction. The body 10 also includes a top surface 13 and a bottom surface 14 arranged opposite each other along the height direction. An ink interface 111 and a gas interface 112 are provided on the front surface 11 for connecting to the consumable cartridge receiving component 100. The ink interface 111 is used to deliver ink from the consumable cartridge to the printer, ensuring normal ink output. An air bladder (not shown) is provided inside the body 10, and the air bladder is connected to the gas interface 112. When the consumable cartridge is installed into the mounting section, the gas interface 112 connects to the inflation interface in the mounting section, and the inflation interface inflates the air bladder. The printing device can then determine whether the consumable cartridge needs to be replaced by detecting the air pressure value of the air bladder. Furthermore, the air bladder balances the air pressure inside and outside the consumable cartridge, ensuring smooth ink output from the ink cartridge interface 111. The air bladder is a common structure in the field of consumable cartridge technology and will not be described in detail here.

[0108] The consumables box also includes a chip 50 ( Figure 3 The front 11 of the cartridge body has a recessed chip mounting portion 113 facing the back 12. The chip 50 is disposed in the chip mounting portion 113. The chip includes an electrical contact surface 51 perpendicular to the front 11 and top 13 of the cartridge body, and multiple electrical contact points 511 are provided on the electrical contact surface 51. When the consumable cartridge is installed on the consumable cartridge receiving component 100, the electrical contact points 511 of the chip 50 are electrically connected to the contact head of the printing device, so that the printer can obtain relevant information about the consumable cartridge from the chip 50 or input relevant data into the chip.

[0109] like Figure 4-8 As shown, the locking mechanism 20 is disposed on the bottom surface 14, and its main function is to securely lock the consumable box in the consumable box receiving member 100 to prevent it from accidentally falling off. The locking mechanism 20 includes a locking element 21 and an unlocking component 30. The locking element 21 has a latching portion 211 protruding towards the outside of the box body. This latching portion 211 is a key structure that forms a locking engagement with the hollow structure 160 (fastening position) on the consumable box receiving member 100. The locking element 21 can move between the locked position and the unlocked position. In the normal installation state, the locking element 21 is in the locked position, at which time the latching portion 211 forms a limiting engagement with the hollow structure 160 (fastening position) at the bottom of the consumable box receiving member 100. Through mutual abutment and restriction, the consumable box is effectively prevented from detaching from the consumable box receiving member 100.

[0110] The unlocking component 30 is disposed on the housing 10. Its function is to allow the locking member 21 to move from the locked position to the unlocked position when the consumable box needs to be removed, thereby releasing the limiting engagement between the latching part 211 and the bottom hollow structure 160 (buckle) of the consumable box receiving member 100, allowing the consumable box to be smoothly removed. In this embodiment, the unlocking component 30 specifically includes a lever 31. The lever 31 extends along the length direction and is rotatably mounted on the housing 10 via a rotating pivot 32. The axis of the rotating pivot 32 is parallel to the width direction (i.e., Figure 1 (X-axis). The front end 31a of the lever 31 along its length (i.e., the downstream end of the lever 31 along the installation direction) is connected to the locking member 21. This connection can be an integral structure or a detachable connection, so that the rotation of the lever 31 can drive the movement of the locking member 21. The rear end 31b of the lever 31 along its length (i.e., the upstream end of the lever 31 along the installation direction) is provided with a first operating part 311, which is exposed on the back surface 12. When unlocking is required, the user can apply downward pressure toward the inside of the box 10 to the first operating part 311. This downward pressure causes the lever 31 to rotate about the axis of the rotation pivot 32. Since the front end 31a of the lever is connected to the locking member 21, the rotation of the lever 31 will drive the locking member 21 to rotate to the unlocked position. In the unlocked position, the locking part 211 of the locking member 21 no longer forms a limiting engagement with the hollow structure 160 (buckle) at the bottom of the consumable box receiving member 100, thereby realizing the unlocking and removal of the consumable box.

[0111] To illustrate the installation method of the lever more specifically, as an example, the bottom surface 14 of the housing 10 may be provided with a receiving groove 142 extending along the length direction. Figure 5The lever 31 is located within the receiving groove 142 to reduce the degree to which the lever 31 protrudes from the surface of the housing, thus preventing misoperation or damage. The rotating pivot 32 passes through the lever 31, and its two ends are respectively supported on the two side walls of the receiving groove 142, thereby realizing the rotatable connection of the lever 31 relative to the housing 10.

[0112] To ensure that the locking element 21 can automatically return to the locked position after unlocking, preferably, the locking mechanism 20 further includes a first elastic element 40. Figure 5 , Figure 7 The first elastic element 40 is mounted on the housing 10. Its function is to store elastic potential energy when the locking element 21 moves from the locked position to the unlocked position under the action of an external force, apply an elastic restoring force to the locking element 21, and after the external force is released, the elastic restoring force drives the locking element 21 to automatically return from the unlocked position to the locked position, thereby ensuring that the locking mechanism 20 can reliably lock the consumable box after it is installed. As an example, the first elastic element 40 can be a spring, which is mounted in a first mounting hole (not specifically shown in the figure) with the opening located on the bottom surface 14 extending along the height direction. One end of the spring can abut against the bottom of the first mounting hole, and the other end abuts against the locking element 21, thereby providing a restoring force to the locking element toward the locked position.

[0113] To improve the reliability and fit strength of the locking mechanism 20, the latching portion 211 is preferably a strip-shaped protrusion extending along the width direction. This design increases the contact area between the latching portion 211 and the hollow structure 160 (fastening position) on the consumable box receiving member 100, thereby increasing the fitting force and making the lock more secure and less prone to loosening.

[0114] like Figure 5 As shown, to prevent interference, jamming, and failure to install the consumable box into the machine, the bottom surface 14 may have a clearance area 141 on the front side (i.e., the downstream side along the installation direction) of the locking member 21 along the length direction. During the installation of the consumable box into the consumable box receiving member 100, the clearance area 141 can avoid the latch structure 130 and the mating protrusion 131 within the mounting portion 110 of the consumable box receiving member 100. In other words, the clearance area 141 can avoid interference from the latch structure 130, preventing the consumable box from mating with the latch structure 130 and fundamentally avoiding installation interference, jamming, and failure to install due to interference with the printing device's latch structure.

[0115] Preferably, when the consumable box is installed onto the mounting portion of the consumable box receiving member 100, the projection of the latching structure 130 in the height direction of the consumable box is located within the projection range of the clearance area 141. This ensures that during the final stage of consumable box installation, the clearance area 141 remains able to avoid the latching structure 130, preventing interference or collision during locking. This helps ensure that the consumable box can be smoothly locked into place, improving the reliability of the installation. When the consumable box is installed onto the mounting portion of the consumable box receiving member 100, the clearance area 141 is spaced a predetermined distance from the latching structure 130.

[0116] Preferably, the clearance area 141 is a plane perpendicular to the height direction of the housing. This plane design simplifies the structure and manufacturing process of the clearance area 141. Simultaneously, this plane directly avoids the latch structure 130, reducing the possibility of interaction with the latch structure 130, more effectively reducing resistance during installation, and lowering the risk of jamming due to poor contact.

[0117] Preferably, the clearance area 141 is located downstream of the locking member 21 along the installation direction. Positioning the clearance area downstream of the locking member 21 means that during consumable box installation, the clearance area can be directly spaced from the latch structure 130 and the mating protrusion 131, with the consumable box ultimately locked by the locking member. This design ensures that the consumable box is in a relatively correct position before the locking member begins to act, thus preventing the locking member from colliding with the latch structure in an incorrect position, further improving the smoothness of installation and the reliability of the locking mechanism.

[0118] Based on the above description, the consumable box in this embodiment achieves reliable locking through the locking mechanism 20 located on its bottom surface. This locking mechanism utilizes the latching portion on the locking member 21 to engage with the latching position at the bottom of the consumable box receiving member 100, thus creating a limiting fit. Simultaneously, the user can easily unlock and remove the consumable box using the unlocking components (lever and first operating part). An optional first elastic member enables automatic reset of the locking mechanism 20, improving ease of use. The optional plate-shaped locking member 21, strip-shaped latching portion, and clearance area further optimize the performance of the locking mechanism 20 and the installation experience of the consumable box.

[0119] Example 2

[0120] This embodiment describes another locking mechanism for the consumable box. Its overall structure is largely the same as that of the consumable box described in Embodiment 1. The main difference is that the locking mechanism in this embodiment adopts a simpler unlocking method, omitting the unlocking components described in Embodiment 1.

[0121] Also refer to Figure 9-12In this embodiment, the locking mechanism 20 includes only a locking member 21 and a first elastic member 40. Similar to Embodiment 1, the box body 10 is provided with a first mounting hole 143 extending through to the bottom surface 14 along the height direction. The first elastic member 40 and the locking member 21 are sequentially installed in the first mounting hole 143 along the height direction. In a natural state, i.e. without external force, the locking member 21 remains in the locked position under the action of the first elastic member 40. At this time, the snap-fit ​​portion 211 of the locking member 21 protrudes from the outside of the bottom surface 14 of the box body 10 (i.e., the snap-fit ​​portion 211 of the locking member 21 protrudes from the first mounting hole 143) and can form a limiting fit with the hollow structure 160 (fastening position) at the bottom of the consumable box receiving member 100, thereby locking the consumable box in the consumable box receiving member 100.

[0122] When it is necessary to remove the consumable box from the consumable box receiving component 100, the user only needs to apply an outward pulling force to pull the consumable box in the opposite direction to the installation direction. During this process, relative movement occurs between the latching part 211 of the locking member 21 and the latch at the bottom of the consumable box receiving component 100. Due to the contact between the latching part 211 and the hollow structure 160 (latching position), this relative movement drives the locking member 21 to overcome the elastic force of the first elastic member 40 and move into the first mounting hole 143, thereby moving the locking member 21 to the unlocked position. In the unlocked position, the latching part 211 no longer forms a limiting engagement with the latch at the bottom of the consumable box receiving component 100, and the consumable box can be smoothly removed from the consumable box receiving component 100.

[0123] To reduce frictional resistance between the latch and the locking part 211 at the bottom of the consumable box receiving component, thus making the unlocking process smoother, the locking part 211 is preferably designed as an arc-shaped protrusion. This arc-shaped structure allows for easier sliding and separation when in contact with the latch, reducing the pulling force required for unlocking. In this embodiment, the locking element is spherical.

[0124] In this embodiment, the first elastic element 40 is specifically a helical spring. One end of the helical spring abuts against the bottom surface of the first mounting hole, and the other end abuts against the locking element 21. This structure allows the helical spring to be compressed and store elastic potential energy when an external force is applied to the locking element 21, causing it to move to the unlocked position (i.e., move into the mounting hole). When the user stops applying the pulling force and the external force is released, the elastic potential energy stored in the helical spring is converted into elastic force, driving the locking element 21 to move in the opposite direction to the unlocking direction, automatically resetting to the locked position, ensuring that the consumable box can always be firmly locked in the consumable box receiving component when reinstalled or when no unlocking operation is performed.

[0125] As an alternative to this embodiment, the first elastic element 40 can be omitted in some applications with special requirements for cost or structure. In this case, the locking element 21 can be made of an elastically deformable material (e.g., a plastic with a certain degree of elasticity). When the consumable box is pulled to unlock, the latching portion of the locking element 21 undergoes elastic deformation during its interaction with the latching position of the consumable box receiving member 100, thereby unlocking. When the pulling force is released, the locking element 21 returns to the locked position by its own elastic restoring force to ensure the locking effect.

[0126] This embodiment simplifies the unlocking mechanism by directly driving the locking component to unlock using the pull-out action of the consumable box, and relies on the elasticity of the elastic component or the elasticity of the locking component itself to achieve reset, providing a simple and low-cost locking solution.

[0127] Example 3

[0128] Also refer to Figure 13-16 This embodiment describes another locking mechanism for the consumable box. The basic structure of the box body 10 is largely the same as that of the consumable box described in Embodiment 1. The main difference is that this embodiment uses another unlocking component, which unlocks the locking component by the linear movement of the push rod.

[0129] In this embodiment, the locking member 21 is designed to move along the height direction (+Z-axis direction). A driven part 212 is provided on the locking member 21. Meanwhile, the unlocking assembly 30 includes a push rod 33 and a second elastic member 41. The push rod 33 extends along the length direction (+Y-axis direction) and is movable along this direction. A driving part 331 is provided at the front end 33a of the push rod 33 along the length direction, which forms an inclined engagement with the driven part 212 on the locking member 21. The rear end 33b of the push rod 33 along the length direction is connected to a second operating part 332, which is exposed on the back side 12 (back side) for user operation. The main function of the second elastic member 41 is to return the push rod 33 to its initial position after the unlocking operation is completed. When it is necessary to unlock the consumable box, the user applies a downward pressure toward the inside of the box to the second operating part 332. This downward pressure causes the push rod 33 to move forward along the length direction. Since the driving part 331 and the driven part 212 are engaged by an inclined surface, when the push rod 33 moves forward, the inclined surface of the driving part 331 pushes the driven part 212, thereby causing the locking member 21 to move from the locked position to the unlocked position along the height direction. In the unlocked position, the latching part 211 of the locking member 21 disengages from the limiting engagement with the bottom latch of the consumable box receiving member 100, allowing the user to remove the consumable box. After the user releases the pressure on the second operating part 332, the second elastic member 41 drives the push rod 33 to move backward along the length direction, returning to the initial position. The reset of the push rod 33 indirectly causes the locking member 21 to automatically reset to the locked position under the action of the first elastic member 40.

[0130] To achieve smooth movement of the push rod 33 and reliable connection of the second operating part 332, further, such as Figure 14 As shown, the housing 10 has a sliding hole 101 extending along the length direction to the back surface 12. The push rod 33 is installed in the sliding hole 101 and can slide along the length direction within the sliding hole 101. The second operating part 332 is specifically a button in this embodiment. The size of the button is usually larger than the size of the push rod 33, that is, the pressing area of ​​the button is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the push rod, so as to facilitate user operation. The button is connected to the rear end 33b of the push rod 33 along the length direction. The connection method can be a snap-fit ​​connection or integral molding, etc. The second elastic element 41 is a helical spring in this embodiment. The helical spring is sleeved on the push rod 33. One end of the spring abuts against the inner side of the button or the rear end 33b, and the other end abuts against the inner wall of the sliding hole 101 or other fixed structures of the housing 10, thereby providing a restoring force for the push rod.

[0131] In this embodiment, to achieve the inclined surface engagement, the driven part 212 can specifically be a square hole provided on the locking member 21, while the driving part 331 can specifically be an inclined surface provided at the front end 33a of the push rod along the length direction. When the push rod 33 moves forward, the inclined surface will contact the edge of the square hole and generate a thrust, causing the locking member 21 to move along the height direction.

[0132] To improve the locking effect, the housing 10 may also have a second mounting hole (not shown in the figure) extending through the height direction to the bottom surface 14. The first elastic member 40 and the locking member 21 can be sequentially installed in the second mounting hole along the height direction. In this case, the snap-fit ​​portion 211 can be a strip-shaped protrusion extending along the width direction (+X axis direction). The first elastic member 40 can be a coil spring, with one end abutting against the bottom surface of the second mounting hole and the other end abutting against the locking member 21. This strip-shaped snap-fit ​​portion 211 can cooperate with the corresponding shaped fastener on the consumable box receiving member 100, providing a larger contact area, thereby achieving a more reliable locking effect.

[0133] In summary, this embodiment achieves unlocking of the locking element through the cooperation of the push rod and the inclined plane, and resets the push rod through the second elastic element. Combined with the first elastic element, automatic reset of the locking mechanism can be achieved. Furthermore, the specific design of the latching part shape can further improve the reliability of the locking mechanism.

[0134] Example 4

[0135] This embodiment is another specific implementation of the consumable box locking mechanism. Its overall structure is largely the same as that of the consumable box described in Embodiment 3. The main difference is that the second operating part of the unlocking component adopts a pressure plate structure, and the guiding method of the push rod is slightly different.

[0136] Also refer to Figure 17-21 In this embodiment, similar to Embodiment 3, the locking member 21 is movable along the height direction and has a driven part 212. The unlocking assembly 30 still includes a push rod 33 and a second elastic member 41. The push rod 33 extends along the length direction and is movable along the length direction, and its front end is provided with a driving part 331 that forms an inclined surface engagement with the driven part 212 of the locking member 21. However, unlike Embodiment 3, in this embodiment, the bottom surface 14 is provided with a groove 144 extending along the length direction to the back surface 12, and the push rod 33 is installed in the groove 144 and can slide along the length direction within the groove 144. The second operating part in this embodiment is a pressure plate 34, which is located on the outside of the back surface 12 for easy user operation. One end of the pressure plate 34 is pivotally connected to the rear end 33b via a pivot, and the other end is pivotally connected to the housing 10 via another pivot. The second elastic member 41 is used to return the pressure plate 34 to its initial position after the unlocking operation is completed.

[0137] When the consumable box needs to be unlocked, the user simply presses the pressure plate 34. Upon pressing, the pressure plate 34 rotates around its pivot point with the box body 10. Since the other end of the pressure plate 34 is pivotally connected to the rear end 33b, the rotation of the pressure plate pushes the push rod 33 forward along its length. The drive part 331 at the front end of the push rod 33 engages with the inclined surface of the driven part 212 of the locking member 21, thereby moving the locking member 21 from the locked position (…). Figure 20 Push to the unlock position. Figure 21 This causes the latching part 211 to disengage from the limiting engagement with the bottom latch of the consumable box receiving component 100, thereby unlocking and removing the consumable box. When the user releases the pressure on the pressure plate 34, the second elastic element 41 drives the pressure plate 34 to rotate in the opposite direction around its pivot point with the box body 10, returning it to its initial position, and simultaneously driving the push rod 33 to move backward along the length direction, thereby resetting the push rod 33. The resetting of the push rod 33 also indirectly causes the locking element 21 to automatically reset to the locked position under the action of the first elastic element 40. Figure 20 ).

[0138] To illustrate the structure and connection method of the pressure plate 34 more specifically, in a preferred embodiment, the pressure plate 34 can be designed as a U-shaped structure with its opening facing the box body 10. The U-shaped pressure plate includes a main body 341 and an upper arm 342 and a lower arm 343 respectively connected to both ends of the main body 341. The upper arm 342 is pivotally connected to the box body 10 via a first pin 344, which forms the pivot point for the pressure plate to rotate around the box body 10. The lower arm 343 has a notch 345 with its opening facing the box body 10. The rear end 33b of the push rod 33 along its length is located within the notch 345 and is pivotally connected to the lower arm 343 via a second pin 346, which forms the connection pivot point between the pressure plate 34 and the push rod 33. When the user presses the main body 341 of the pressure plate 34, the upper arm 342 rotates around the first pin 344 and pushes the push rod 33 forward along the length direction through the second pin 346, thereby unlocking the device. After the pressure is released, the second elastic element 41 (e.g., a torsion spring, with its two ends acting on the pressure plate and the box body respectively) drives the pressure plate 34 to rotate in the opposite direction, thereby causing the push rod 33 to reset.

[0139] This embodiment provides an unlocking method different from button operation by using a pressure plate as the operating component of the unlocking assembly. Users can easily unlock the consumable box by pressing the pressure plate. This structure may be more ergonomic or provide a better operating feel in certain application scenarios.

[0140] Example 5

[0141] This embodiment describes an alternative locking mechanism design that differs from the aforementioned embodiments one, two, three, and four. As shown in the figure, the locking mechanism in this embodiment mainly consists of a locking element 21, a first push block 35, and a second push block 36.

[0142] like Figure 22 and Figure 23 As shown, the locking member 21 includes a component along the width direction (e.g., Figure 1 The main body 213 extends along the +X axis direction and a length direction (e.g., Figure 1 A rotating shaft 214 extends (in the +Y axis direction). One end of the main body 213 forms a snap-fit ​​portion for locking with a latch on the consumable box receiving member 100. The rotating shaft 214 is rotatably mounted on the bottom surface 14 of the box body 10, allowing the locking member 21 to rotate around the rotating shaft 214. Specifically, the mounting method could be, for example, by providing a bearing seat or hole on the bottom surface 14, through which the rotating shaft 214 passes and can rotate freely.

[0143] The first push block 35 and the second push block 36 are arranged side by side on the bottom surface 14 of the box body 10 along the width direction, and both push blocks are designed to move along the length direction. This movement can be achieved by a sliding groove or guide rail provided on the box body 10 to ensure the directionality of the push blocks during movement. The front ends of the first push block 35 and the second push block 36 along the length direction are respectively provided with a first inclined surface 351 and a second inclined surface 361.

[0144] The first inclined surface 351 and the second inclined surface 361 on the first push block 35 and the second push block 36 cooperate with the main body 213 of the locking member 21. Specifically, when the first push block 35 or the second push block 36 moves forward along the length direction, its inclined surface contacts the side of the main body 213 and applies a pushing force, causing the main body 213 to rotate around the pivot 214. By controlling the direction and distance of movement of the first push block 35 and the second push block 36, the main body 213 can be driven to rotate between the locked position and the unlocked position. For example, when the first push block 35 moves forward, the main body 213 is in the locked position, and the latching part 211 protrudes from the outside of the housing 10. When the first push block 35 retracts and the second push block 36 moves forward, the main body 213 rotates to the unlocked position.

[0145] In this embodiment, the unlocking operation can be achieved by moving the first push block 35 and the second push block 36 respectively. For example, through the mating protrusion 131 of the latch structure 130 in the consumable box receiving member 100. When the consumable box is installed into the consumable box receiving member 100, the mating protrusion 131 of the latch structure 130 pushes the first push block 35 forward, thereby driving the main body 213 to rotate to the locked position; when the consumable box is removed from the consumable box receiving member 100, the mating protrusion 131 of the latch structure 130 pushes the second push block 36 forward, driving the main body 213 to rotate to the unlocked position. Similarly, an elastic element (e.g., a spring) can be provided to connect the first push block 35 and the second push block 36 to reset the push block to the initial position after the unlocking operation is completed, and may drive the locking member 21 back to the locked position through the reverse movement of the push block.

[0146] The locking mechanism in this embodiment controls the rotation of the locking element by employing the coordinated action of two push blocks, providing a novel locking and unlocking mechanism. This design may have advantages such as compact structure and balanced operating force.

[0147] The above-described embodiments are merely illustrative of several implementations of this utility model, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of this utility model patent. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this utility model, and these modifications and improvements all fall within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. A consumable box, detachably mounted on the mounting portion of a consumable box receiving component along the installation direction, wherein the bottom surface of the mounting portion is provided with a hollow structure and a movable latching structure, characterized in that, include: The box body includes a front and a back side arranged opposite each other along the length direction, and a top and a bottom side arranged opposite each other along the height direction, the length direction being parallel to the installation direction. The front side is provided with an ink interface and a gas interface for connecting to the consumable box receiving component, and the bottom side is provided with a clearance area for avoiding interference from the latch structure during the process of the consumable box being installed on the mounting part of the consumable box receiving component. A locking mechanism is provided on the bottom surface. The locking mechanism includes a locking member with a latching portion protruding toward the outside of the housing. The locking member is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. When the consumable box is installed onto the consumable box receiving component, the locking member moves to the locking position, and the snap-fit ​​part forms a limiting fit with the hollow structure on the bottom surface of the mounting part to prevent the consumable box from detaching.

2. The consumable box according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking mechanism further includes a first elastic element, which is mounted on the housing and is used to apply an elastic restoring force to the locking element to drive the locking element from the unlocked position to the locked position.

3. The consumable box according to claim 2, characterized in that, The bottom surface of the box is provided with a first mounting hole, which extends along the height direction. The first elastic member and the locking member are installed in the first mounting hole, and the locking member's snap-fit ​​portion protrudes out of the first mounting hole.

4. The consumable box according to claim 2, characterized in that, The locking mechanism further includes an unlocking component disposed on the housing, which is used to move the locking element from the locked position to the unlocked position.

5. The consumable box according to claim 4, characterized in that, The unlocking assembly includes a lever extending along the mounting direction and rotatably mounted on the housing via a pivot axis parallel to the width direction of the housing. One downstream end of the lever along the mounting direction is connected to the locking member, and one upstream end of the lever along the mounting direction has a first operating portion exposed on the back side. When downward pressure is applied to the first operating portion, the locking member rotates about the axis of the pivot axis to the unlocked position.

6. The consumable box according to claim 4, characterized in that, The locking member is movable along the height direction and has a driven part; the unlocking assembly includes a push rod and a second elastic member. The push rod extends along the installation direction and is movable along the installation direction. One end of the push rod along the downstream side of the installation direction has a driving part. The driving part and the driven part form an inclined surface engagement. One end of the push rod along the upstream side of the installation direction is connected to a second operating part. The second operating part is exposed on the back side. The second elastic member is used to reset the push rod. When a downward pressure is applied to the second operating part toward the inside of the housing, the push rod moves toward the installation direction, and the locking member is pushed from the locked position to the unlocked position by the inclined surface engagement of the driving part and the driven part.

7. The consumable box according to claim 6, characterized in that, The bottom surface is provided with a sliding groove extending through to the back side along the length direction. The push rod is installed in the sliding groove. The second operating part is a pressure plate. The pressure plate is located on the outside of the back side, with one end pivotally connected to the push rod and the other end pivotally connected to the box body. The second elastic element is provided between the pressure plate and the box body.

8. The consumable box according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a chip, and the front of the housing is provided with a chip mounting portion recessed towards the back. The chip is disposed in the chip mounting portion. The chip includes an electrical contact surface perpendicular to the front and top surfaces of the housing, and the electrical contact surface is provided with multiple electrical contact points.

9. The consumable box according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, When the consumable box is installed on the mounting part of the consumable box receiving member, the projection of the latch structure in the height direction of the consumable box is located within the projection range of the avoidance area.

10. The consumable box according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The avoidance area is a plane perpendicular to the height direction of the box.

11. The consumable box according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The avoidance area is located downstream of the locking member along the installation direction.

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