Fixing seat, liquid containing device and image forming device thereof

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of printing supplies, in particular to a fixing base, a liquid containing device and an image forming device thereof, the fixing base is detachably installed on a tray, and the tray provided with the fixing base can be detachably installed on the image forming device. The fixing seat is arranged on the image forming device, so that a chip on the fixing seat is electrically connected with an electric connection part, provided with a guide post, of the image forming device, the fixing seat comprises a notch, and the notch is provided with an inclined surface inclined in the Y direction; and at least one first limiting structure, wherein the first limiting structure is a guide bulge for guiding the guide column so as to enable the electric connection part of the image forming device to be electrically connected with the chip. After the liquid containing device with the fixing base is installed on the image forming device, the situation that the ink bag is separated from the ink suction device or the electric connection part of the chip located on the connecting component and the image forming device cannot be conducted can be avoided, and normal use of the image forming device is guaranteed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of printing consumables technology, and in particular to a mounting base, a liquid containing device, and an image forming apparatus thereof. Background Technology

[0002] Existing ink bag products can be roughly divided into two parts in terms of structure: the ink bag that stores ink and the connecting parts. Due to issues such as process and manufacturing difficulty, the two parts are usually made separately and then assembled to complete the ink bag.

[0003] When the ink bag is installed into the image forming apparatus, it is very easy for the ink bag to shake during the operation of the ink suction device of the image forming apparatus. This may cause the ink bag to detach from the ink suction device, or the chip on the connecting part may fail to form a conductive connection with the electrical connection of the image forming apparatus. Both of these situations will cause the image forming apparatus to malfunction.

[0004] There is an urgent need for a device that, when installed on an image forming apparatus, can prevent significant shaking in order to ensure the normal operation of the image forming apparatus. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This utility model discloses a mounting base, which is detachably mounted on a tray. The tray on which the mounting base is mounted can be detachably mounted to an image forming apparatus, so that the chip on the mounting base forms an electrical connection with the electrical connection portion of the image forming apparatus having guide posts. The mounting base includes...

[0006] A notch having a slope inclined in the Y direction;

[0007] and at least one first limiting structure, the first limiting structure being a guide protrusion that guides the guide post to form an electrical connection between the electrical connection portion of the image forming apparatus and the chip.

[0008] Furthermore, when the electrical connection portion forms an electrical connection with the chip, the guide protrusion is higher than the guide post in the Z direction.

[0009] Furthermore, the guide protrusion has two sets, and the distance between the two sets of guide protrusions in the X direction is greater than the width of the electrical connection portion in the X direction.

[0010] Furthermore, it also includes at least one groove located at the upper end of the inclined surface, the groove intersecting with a line extending from the upper edge of the chip in the X direction.

[0011] Furthermore, when the electrical connection portion forms an electrical connection with the chip, the groove and the guide protrusion respectively overlap with the projection of the guide post in the Z direction.

[0012] Furthermore, the guide protrusion has a first guide surface on the side of the electrical connection portion along the Y direction.

[0013] Furthermore, the first guiding surface is one of a circular arc surface, an inclined surface, or a straight plane.

[0014] Furthermore, it also includes a second limiting structure, which can restrict the movement of the fixed seat on the tray in the Y and X directions.

[0015] Furthermore, the tray has a protruding portion;

[0016] The second limiting structure includes an abutment surface;

[0017] and at least one engaging portion that abuts against the protrusion when the mounting base is installed onto the tray.

[0018] Furthermore, the second limiting structure also includes an engagement portion that extends in the Z direction on the abutment surface.

[0019] This utility model also discloses a liquid containing device, including a liquid containing part, wherein the liquid containing part is detachably mounted with the aforementioned fixing seat.

[0020] This utility model also discloses an image forming apparatus, including an electrical connection portion, which is detachably connected to the aforementioned liquid containing device.

[0021] The technical solution provided in this application can achieve the following beneficial effects: after the liquid containing device with the fixing base is installed into the image forming apparatus, it can prevent the ink bag from detaching from the ink suction device, or prevent the chip on the connecting component from forming a conductive connection with the image forming apparatus, so as to ensure the normal use of the image forming apparatus. Attached Figure Description

[0022] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the ink bag and tray in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of separating the ink bag and the tray according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an ink bag provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 4This is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of an ink bag according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 5 This is an exploded view of the second limiting structure of the ink bag provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 6 for Figure 5 A magnified view of a portion of P1;

[0029] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the ink bag and the image forming apparatus before they are properly connected, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure when the ink bag and the electrical connection portion of the image forming apparatus are engaged, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 9 for Figure 8 A magnified view of a portion of P2;

[0032] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the ink bag connecting bracket at one angle according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 11 for Figure 10 A magnified view of a portion of P3;

[0034] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the connecting frame for ink bags provided in one embodiment of the present invention from another angle;

[0035] Figure 13 for Figure 12 A magnified view of a portion of page 4;

[0036] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the connecting frame for an ink bag provided in one embodiment of the present invention from another angle.

[0037] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the ink bag fixing seat provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the fixing seat and the connecting frame in the ink bag according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 17 A schematic diagram of the structure of the ink bag connecting frame at one angle according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the connecting frame for an ink bag provided in another embodiment of the present invention from another angle.

[0041] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the ink bag connecting frame at one angle according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 20 This is a structural schematic diagram of the ink bag connecting frame provided in yet another embodiment of the present invention from another angle.

[0043] Figure 21 for Figure 20 A magnified view of a section on page 6;

[0044] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the ink bag fixing seat provided in another embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the ink bag fixing seat and the connecting frame in another embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of 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.

[0047] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in embodiments of this invention have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. It should also be understood that terms such as those defined in a common dictionary should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art, and not as being interpreted in an idealized or highly formalized sense, unless expressly defined in this embodiment of the invention.

[0048] The terms “center,” “upper,” “lower,” “left,” “right,” “vertical,” and “horizontal” used in the embodiments of this invention indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship that the product of this embodiment is usually placed in during use. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this invention and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this invention.

[0049] The terms "first," "second," and similar terms used in the embodiments of this invention do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different components. Similarly, terms such as "an," "one," or "the" do not indicate a quantity limitation, but rather indicate the presence of at least one. Likewise, terms such as "including" or "comprising" mean that the element or object preceding the word encompasses the elements or objects listed following the word and their equivalents, without excluding other elements or objects.

[0050] The terms "connection" or "linking" are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, but can include electrical connections, whether direct or indirect. The steps preceding or following each other in the method of this invention are not necessarily performed precisely in sequence. Instead, the steps can be processed in reverse order or simultaneously. Furthermore, other operations can be added to these processes, or one or more steps can be removed from them.

[0051] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the ink bag 100 provided in this application is applied in an image forming apparatus, which includes a tray 200 that can be easily detached and installed in the image forming apparatus. The ink bag 100 provided in this application is placed into the tray 200 by a certain limiting method, and is connected to the image forming apparatus when the tray 200 is installed in the image forming apparatus, thereby enabling the image forming apparatus to operate.

[0052] The image forming apparatus also includes an ink-absorbing device, which is used to absorb liquid, such as ink, from the ink bag 100 when the image forming apparatus is connected to the ink bag 100.

[0053] It should be noted that the image forming apparatus mentioned in this application can be a printer, a copier, etc.

[0054] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the ink bag 100 provided in this application includes a fixing base 1, a connecting frame 3, and a receiving bag 4. The fixing base 1 is connected to the connecting frame 3, and the receiving bag 4 is sleeved on at least a portion of the periphery of the connecting frame 3. The fixing base 1 includes a first limiting structure 11, which engages with a restrained structure 11 on a tray 200, thereby confining the fixing base 1 within the tray 200, and consequently confining the ink bag 100 within the tray 200. The receiving bag 4, sleeved on at least a portion of the periphery of the connecting frame 3, forms a closed receiving space for containing liquids, such as ink. The receiving bag 4 is a flexible bag.

[0055] like Figure 10 , Figure 12 and Figures 19-20As shown, the connecting frame 3 includes a first ink port 3A and a second ink port 3B. The first ink port 3A and the second ink port 3B are connected. The first ink port 3A is used to connect to the ink suction device in the image forming apparatus. The second ink port 3B is located in the closed receiving space formed by the connecting frame 3 and the receiving bag 4, so that the liquid in the receiving space can enter and exit through the second ink port 3B. Thus, when the ink suction device is working, the liquid in the receiving space can flow from the second ink port 3B to the first ink port 3A and then into the ink suction device. That is, when the ink suction device is working, the ink suction device draws the liquid in the receiving space from the receiving space to the second ink port 3B, then from the second ink port 3B to the first ink port 3A, and finally draws the liquid at the first ink port 3A into the ink suction device for use by the image forming apparatus.

[0056] To better illustrate the scheme of this application, it should be noted that the X, Y, and Z directions mentioned in this application are perpendicular to each other. In this application, the X direction is also the first direction, the Y direction is also the second direction, and the Z direction is also the third direction.

[0057]

Fixed Base 1

[0058] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the fixing base 11 is provided with a first limiting structure 11, which is used to limit the relative position of the ink bag 100 on the tray 200, so that the ink bag 100 will not shake when it moves with the tray 200 to the ink suction device of the image forming apparatus, and the ink bag 100 and the ink suction device are in a connected and working state. This prevents the ink bag 100 from shifting or falling off the tray 200, which would prevent it from achieving fluid communication with the ink suction device.

[0059] Specifically, a protrusion 211 is provided on the side wall 211 along the Y direction of the tray 200. The protrusion 211 is connected to the side wall 211 and gradually extends towards the center of the tray 200 in the X direction. A portion surface A211a on the protrusion 211 is substantially parallel to the top of the side wall 211 in the Z direction; while a portion surface B211b on the protrusion 211 is closer to the center of the tray 200 relative to the side wall 211. When the fixing seat 11 on the ink bag 100 is installed onto the tray 200 from the Y direction, the first limiting structure 11 of the fixing seat 11 can be close to the limiting portion QQ formed by the side wall 211, end wall 221 and bottom surface 23 of the tray 200 to restrict the movement of the ink bag 100 along the Y direction. In this embodiment, the tray 200 has two side walls 211 symmetrically arranged along the Y direction, and the top of both side walls 211 and the top of the side walls 211 in the Z direction are parallel to a portion of the surface A211a, so as to restrict the ink bag 100 along the X direction.

[0060] In this embodiment, the protruding part 211 is generally a semi-cylindrical convex structure, and the part of the surface B211b that contacts the first limiting structure 11 is a curved surface structure.

[0061] like Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, the first limiting structure 11 consists of an abutment surface 111 and two sets of fitting portions connected to the abutment surface 111. The fitting portions include surface A 112 and surface B 113. Viewed from the Z direction, the two ends of the abutment surface 111 are respectively connected to the two sets of fitting portions formed by surface A 112 and surface B 113, forming a rectangular first limiting structure 11. Surface A 111 and surface B 113 are approximately parallel in the X direction; surface A 112 is approximately parallel in the Y direction and adheres tightly to the side wall 211. When the ink bag 100 is installed onto the tray 200, surface A 111 adheres tightly to the end wall 221, surface B 113 adheres tightly to the side wall 211, and surface B 113 adheres tightly to the protruding portion 211. This restricts the movement of the ink bag 100 in the X / Y directions.

[0062] In this embodiment, as Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, the first limiting structure 11 also has a C surface 114, which is approximately parallel in the Y direction and one end of it is connected to the B surface 113. When viewed from the side of the fixing seat 11 in the X direction, the length of part of the B211b in the Y direction is less than or equal to the length of the D surface in the Y direction, which can further restrict the movement of the ink bag 100 in the Y direction.

[0063] The abutment surface 111 extends obliquely in the lower part of the Y direction and is provided with a joint portion 111a. The joint portion 111a can form a joint relationship with the end wall 221 of the tray 200 during the installation process, so that the fixing seat 11 will not get stuck during the installation process.

[0064] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the mounting base 11 also includes a second limiting structure 1212, which is used to position the electrical connection portion 5 in the image forming apparatus so that the metal probe 51 of the electrical connection portion 5 can contact the metal terminals on the chip 6 to achieve electrical connection between the chip 6 and the image forming apparatus. The metal terminals are disposed on the surface of, for example, a circuit board, which includes a storage section that stores various information related to the ink bag 100 (e.g., the unique identification code of the ink bag 100, sales area, model, liquid volume, etc.). In addition, a guide post 52 extends from one end of the electrical connection portion 5 to the other end of the electrical connection portion 5 along the Y direction, and the guide post 52 is approximately parallel to the Y direction.

[0065] In this embodiment, the metal terminals are arranged in an obliquely upward direction, specifically in the chip 6 within the recess 121 of the mounting base 11, which is inclined in the Y direction.

[0066] Additionally, in this embodiment, as Figure 6 As shown, guide protrusions 122 extending along the Y direction are provided on both sides of the connection terminal in the X direction. These guide protrusions 122 are located at the upper-middle position of the recess 121, extending horizontally from the wall 1211 of the recess 121 along its center. Viewed in the Y direction from near the recess 121 of the fixing base 11, the guide protrusions 122 are generally rectangular in structure, and partly extend horizontally along the center of the recess 121 in the X direction. When the electrical connection portion 5 forms an electrical connection with the chip 6, the guide protrusions 122 are higher than the guide post 52 in the Z direction. Specifically, when the electrical connection portion 5 is installed into the recess 121, viewed from the Y direction, the vertical height S2 of the guide protrusion 122 to the bottom of the recess 121 is higher than the vertical height S1 of the guide post 52 to the bottom of the recess 121. When the tray 200 with the fixing seat 11 is installed into the image forming apparatus and forms electrical contact with the electrical connection portion 5, the guide post 52 located on the side of the electrical contact portion is located directly below the guide protrusion 122. The guide protrusion 122 restricts the position of the electrical connection portion 5 with the guide post 52 so that the metal probe 51 of the electrical connection portion 5 can contact the metal terminal of the chip 6 to form a good contact state.

[0067] In this embodiment, as Figure 6 As shown, the guide protrusion 122 has two sets, and the distance M2 between the two sets of guide protrusions 122 in the X direction is greater than the width M1 of the electrical connection portion 5 in the X direction, so that the recess 121 with two sets of guide protrusions 122 can accommodate the electrical connection portion 5, thereby enabling the electrical connection portion 5 to be smoothly installed into the recess 121 and to make contact with the chip 6.

[0068] In this embodiment, as Figure 6 As shown, it also has a groove 1231, which is located at the upper end of the inclined surface 123 in the recess 121. Specifically, the upper edge of the chip 6 has a predetermined line T1 extending in the X direction. The line T1 just overlaps and intersects with the groove 1231 so that when the electrical connection part 5 is installed into the recess 121, the guide post 52 on the electrical connection part 5 can be installed and snapped into the groove 1231 to fix the position of the electrical connection part 5 in the recess 121. This prevents the electrical connection part 5 from shifting or detaching from the recess 121 due to shaking during the printing process, and ensures a stable electrical connection between the electrical connection part 5 and the chip 6.

[0069] In this embodiment, as Figure 8 and 9As shown, when the electrical connection portion 5 forms an electrical connection with the chip 6, the groove 1231 and the guide post 52 overlap with the projection of the guide protrusion 122 in the Z direction. Specifically, in the Z direction, the projection of the guide protrusion 122 onto the groove 1231 is C1, and the projection of the guide protrusion 122 onto the guide post 52 is C2. The guide post 52, the groove 1231, and the guide protrusion 122 form a double limit, thereby limiting the position of the electrical connection portion 5 in the recess 121.

[0070] When the tray 200 with ink bag 100 moves toward the image forming apparatus in the Y direction, the guide post 52 located at the edge of the electrical connection portion 5 abuts against the guide protrusion 122, thereby confining the electrical connection portion 5 within the recess 121 to ensure that the metal terminal can make normal contact and electrical connection with the metal probe 51, and further ensure that the image forming apparatus can establish a communication relationship with the chip 6.

[0071] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 As shown, the edge portion of the guide protrusion 122 near the electrical connection portion 5 has a structure that matches the guide post 52. This structure is a first guide surface 1221. Preferably, the first guide surface 1221 is one of an arc surface, an inclined surface 123, or a straight plane. This ensures that the tray 200 with the ink bag 100 can be installed smoothly and easily in the image forming apparatus, preventing the ink bag 100 from getting stuck during installation, which would affect the user experience and could also cause damage to the components due to the rigid fit between the mating parts.

[0072] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, the fixed base 11 is provided with a handle 14 along the X direction to facilitate the user's lifting. The handle 14 is provided on the fixed base 111, and the user's hand is adapted to contact the handle 14 so that the user can grasp the handle 14 to lift the ink bag 100 from the tray 200.

[0073] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1-4 As shown, the mounting base 11 also includes a through port 1A. The opening direction of the through port 1A is consistent with the opening direction of the first ink port 3A of the connecting frame 3. When the ink bag 100 is connected to the image forming apparatus, the ink suction device in the image forming apparatus passes through the through port 1A and is inserted into the first ink port 3A and connected to the first ink port 3A.

[0074]

Connector 3

[0075] like Figure 10 , Figure 12 and Figure 17-20As shown, the connecting frame 3 includes a connecting structure 32 and a flow structure 33. The fixed base 1 and the connecting frame 3 are connected through the connecting structure 32. The second ink port 3B is provided on the flow structure 33, and the flow structure 33 is connected to the first ink port 3A. The liquid in the space flows into the flow structure 33 through the second ink port 3B and forms a certain loop in the flow structure 33 to facilitate the flow of liquid to the first ink port 3A.

[0076] In some embodiments, such as Figure 10 , Figure 12 and Figure 17-20 As shown, the connecting frame 3 also includes a support structure 34, which is connected to the flow structure 33 to support the receiving bag 4 so that the liquid in the receiving bag 4 can flow better to the second ink port 3B during the use of the ink bag 100.

[0077] In some embodiments, the connecting structure 32, the flow structure 33, and the supporting structure 34 are integrally formed.

[0078] Specifically, in one embodiment that serves as the supporting structure 34, such as Figure 10 , Figure 12 and Figure 14 As shown, the support structure 34 includes a first support rod 341, which is disposed in the second ink port 3B and connected to the flow structure 33, and divides the second ink port 3B into two ink ports. The first support rod 341 extends along the +Y direction and its size in the Z direction is larger than that in the X direction, so that the first support rod 341 supports the receiving bag 4 in the Z direction.

[0079] The container bag 4 is flexible. If the first support rod 341 does not extend along the +Y direction and its size in the +Y direction is relatively small, for example, its length does not exceed half of the container bag 4 in the +Y direction, then during the consumption of liquid in the container bag 4, the container bag 4 may collapse in the middle of the container bag 4 in the Y direction due to its flexible nature and the action of external force, and there will be no support. This will block the liquid in the +Y direction located at the collapse point from flowing to or making it difficult to flow to the second ink nozzle 3B located in the -Y direction, which is not conducive to the liquid in the container bag 4 flowing to the second ink nozzle 3B.

[0080] Since the first support rod 341 extends along the +Y direction and its size in the +Y direction is long enough, for example, its length is at least more than half of the container bag 4 in the +Y direction, even if the container bag 4 may collapse in the middle of the container bag 4 in the Y direction due to its flexible nature and external force during the consumption of liquid in the container bag 4, the first support rod 341 will provide support so that the liquid flow channel will not be blocked at the collapse point. This will facilitate the flow of liquid in the container bag 4 and help the liquid in the container bag 4 to flow better to the second ink nozzle 3B.

[0081] Therefore, the length of the first support rod 341 in the +Y direction is at least more than half the length of the receiving bag 4 in the +Y direction.

[0082] Therefore, the main substructure included in the support structure 34 is the first support rod 341, which extends along the +Y direction. Its dimension in the Z direction is larger than that in the X direction, resulting in a simple structure for the first support rod 341, and consequently a simple structure for the support structure 34. This simplifies the support structure 34 and allows for more flexible control over its size during design, leading to a smaller volume. Furthermore, through multiple experiments conducted by the applicant, this design does not affect the liquid dispensing function of the ink bag 100. Therefore, the ink bag 100 provided by this invention simplifies the support structure 34 and reduces its volume without affecting the liquid dispensing function, thereby reducing manufacturing costs and the cost of the ink bag 100, and increasing its capacity.

[0083] In some embodiments, such as Figure 10 , Figure 12 and Figure 14 As shown, the cross-section of the first support rod 341 in the XY plane direction is rectangular, and further, the first support rod 341 is in the shape of a cuboid.

[0084] In some embodiments, such as Figure 10 , Figure 12 and Figure 14 As shown, the support structure 34 also includes a second support rod 342, which is connected to the flow structure 33 and extends along the +Y direction. Its dimension in the X direction is larger than its dimension in the Z direction, thereby enabling the second support rod 342 to support the receiving bag 4 in the X direction. Further, in some embodiments, the cross-section of the second support rod 342 in the XY plane is rectangular; more specifically, the second support rod 342 is cuboid in shape.

[0085] In some embodiments, such as Figure 10 , Figure 12 and Figure 14 As shown, the first support rod 341 is connected to the second support rod 342. The first support rod 341 and the second support rod 342 are arranged parallel to each other in the Y direction, and the first support rod 341 and the second support rod 342 have the same length in the Y direction.

[0086] In some embodiments, such as Figure 10 , Figure 12 and Figure 14 As shown, the first support rod 341 and the second support rod 342 are arranged perpendicularly in the XZ plane direction. Furthermore, as... Figure 14As shown, looking at the support structure 34 along the Y direction, the first support rod 341 and the second support rod 342 form a "T" shape.

[0087] Furthermore, by combining the first support rod 341 with the second support rod 342, the storage bag 4 can be better supported.

[0088] Since the second support structure 342 is rectangular, its structure is simple. Even if it is combined with the first support rod 341 to form a "T" shape, it will not increase the structural complexity of the support structure 34. At the same time, after multiple experiments by the applicant, this design will not affect the liquid discharge function of the ink bag 100. Therefore, the ink bag 100 provided by this utility model can simplify the support structure 34 in the ink bag 100 and reduce the volume of the support structure 34 without affecting the liquid discharge function, thereby reducing the process cost and the cost of the ink bag 100 and increasing the capacity of the ink bag 100.

[0089] In another embodiment that serves as the support structure 34, such as Figure 17-18 As shown, the support structure 34 includes a support rod 343, which is located near the second ink nozzle 3B and connected to the flow structure 33. The support rod 343 extends along the +Y direction and has a circular cross-section in the XY plane.

[0090] The container bag 4 is flexible. If the support rod 343 does not extend along the +Y direction and its size in the +Y direction is relatively small, for example, its length does not exceed half of the container bag 4 in the +Y direction, then during the consumption of liquid in the container bag 4, the container bag 4 may collapse in the middle of the container bag 4 in the Y direction due to its flexible nature and the action of external force, and there will be no support. This will block the liquid in the +Y direction located at the collapse point from flowing to or making it difficult to flow to the second ink nozzle 3B located in the -Y direction, which is not conducive to the liquid in the container bag 4 flowing to the second ink nozzle 3B.

[0091] Since the support rod 343 extends along the +Y direction and its dimensions in the +Y direction are long enough, for example, its length is at least more than half of the container bag 4 in the +Y direction, even if the container bag 4 may collapse in the middle of the container bag 4 in the Y direction due to its flexible nature and external force during the consumption of liquid in the container bag 4, the support rod 343 will support it so that the liquid flow channel will not be blocked at the collapse point. This is conducive to the flow of liquid in the container bag 4 and to the liquid in the container bag 4 flowing better to the second ink nozzle 3B.

[0092] Therefore, the length of the support rod 343 in the +Y direction is at least more than half the length of the containing bag 4 in the +Y direction.

[0093] Therefore, the main substructure included in the support structure 34 is the support rod 343, which extends along the +Y direction and has a circular cross-section in the XY plane. This simplifies the structure of the support rod 343, thus simplifying the structure of the support structure 34. Furthermore, its simple structure allows for more flexible control over its size during design, resulting in a smaller overall volume. Moreover, through numerous experiments conducted by the applicant, this design does not affect the liquid dispensing function of the ink bag 100. Therefore, the ink bag 100 provided by this invention simplifies the support structure 34 and reduces its volume without affecting the liquid dispensing function, thereby reducing manufacturing costs and the cost of the ink bag 100, and increasing its capacity.

[0094] like Figure 17-18 As shown, the support structure 34 also includes a spiral ring 344, which is wound around the outside of the support rod 343. One end of the spiral ring 344 is connected to the second ink port 3B, so that the liquid in the bag 4 enters the other end of the spiral ring 344 and flows into the second ink port 3B through the spiral structure of the spiral ring 344.

[0095] In some embodiments, such as Figure 17-18 As shown, along the +Y direction, the spiral depth of the spiral coil 344 wound on the support rod 343 remains constant, wherein the spiral depth is the distance from the outermost coil to the innermost coil within the same spiral coil 344. Further, in some embodiments, such as... Figure 17-18 As shown, along the +Y direction, the cross-sectional area of ​​the support rod 343 in the XZ plane increases, for example, the support rod 343 is shaped like a frustum. Since the cross-sectional area of ​​the support rod 343 in the XZ plane that can be accommodated at the second ink nozzle 3B is limited, the support rod 343 can be designed as a frustum shape to enhance its supporting effect. In this case, along the +Y direction, the helical radius of the spiral coil 344 also increases with the increase of the cross-sectional area of ​​the support rod 343 in the XZ plane.

[0096] Because the spiral coil 344 is spiral-shaped, its structure is simple. Even if it is wrapped around the outside of the support rod 343, it will not increase the structural complexity of the support structure 34. At the same time, after multiple experiments by the applicant, this design will not affect the liquid dispensing function in the ink bag 100. Therefore, the ink bag 100 provided by this utility model can simplify the support structure 34 in the ink bag 100 and reduce the volume of the support structure 34 without affecting the liquid dispensing function, thereby reducing the process cost and the cost of the ink bag 100 and increasing the capacity of the ink bag 100.

[0097] [Connection method between fixed base 1 and connecting bracket 3]

[0098] The fixed base 1 also includes a third limiting structure 13, which is used to limit the connecting structure 32 on the connecting frame 3, thereby restricting the relative movement of the connecting frame 3 and the fixed base 1 in the X, Y and Z directions, so that the connecting frame 3 and the fixed base 1 are connected together.

[0099] As one embodiment of the connection method between the fixed base 1 and the connecting frame 3, such as Figure 10-16 As shown, the third limiting structure 13 includes a first engaging portion 131 and a first abutting portion 132. The third limiting structure 13 abuts against the connecting structure 32 on the connecting frame 3 through the first engaging portion 131 and the first abutting portion 132, thereby limiting the connecting structure 32. The first engaging portion 131 is located at the bottom of the fixing base 1.

[0100] Furthermore, in some embodiments, such as Figure 11 and Figure 13 As shown, the connecting structure 32 includes a first abutting surface 32A, a second abutting surface 32B, a third abutting surface 32C, a fourth abutting surface 32D, and a fifth abutting surface 32E. The first abutting surface 32A extends in a YZ plane, and the first engaging portion 131 abuts against the first abutting surface 32A. More specifically, the connecting structure 32 includes two first abutting surfaces 32A, which face opposite directions, towards the +X and -X directions respectively. The third limiting structure 13 includes two first engaging portions 131, located on opposite sides in the X direction, with each first engaging portion 131 abutting against each first abutting surface 32A, thereby limiting the relative movement space between the connecting frame 3 and the fixed base 1 in the X direction.

[0101] Both the second abutment surface 32B and the third abutment surface 32C extend in the XZ plane. The second abutment surface 32B and the third abutment surface 32C face opposite directions, and face -Y and +Y directions or +Y and -Y directions respectively. The first abutment part 132 has a surface extending in the XZ direction, and the orientation of this surface is exactly opposite to the orientation of the third abutment surface 32C, so that the two can abut against each other. Then, the second abutment surface 32B abuts against the first engaging part 131, and the third abutment surface 32C abuts against the first abutment part 132, thereby limiting the relative movement space between the connecting frame 3 and the fixed seat 1 in the Y direction.

[0102] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the third limiting structure 13 includes at least two first abutting portions 132, and the connecting structure 32 includes at least two second abutting surfaces 32B and at least two third abutting surfaces 32C. Each second abutting surface 32B and each third abutting surface 32C extends in an XZ plane. All second abutting surfaces 32B face the same direction, and all third abutting surfaces 32C face the same direction. The directions of each second abutting surface 32B and each third abutting surface 32C are exactly opposite, facing -Y and +Y directions respectively, or +Y and -Y directions respectively. Each second abutting surface 32B... Surface 32B abuts against each of the first engaging portions 131; and each of the first engaging portions 132 has a surface extending in the XZ direction, and the orientation of this surface is exactly opposite to the orientation of each of the third engaging surfaces 32C, so that the XZ-oriented surface in each of the first engaging portions 132 abuts against each of the third engaging surfaces 32C. Furthermore, each of the second engaging surfaces 32B abuts against each of the first engaging portions 131 in a one-to-one manner, and each of the third engaging surfaces 32C abuts against each of the first engaging portions 132 in a one-to-one manner, thereby better limiting the relative movement space between the connecting frame 3 and the fixed base 1 in the Y direction. As shown in the figure, the third limiting structure 13 includes two first engaging portions 132, and the connecting structure 32 includes two second engaging surfaces 32B and two third engaging surfaces 32C. Each of the second engaging surfaces 32B abuts against each of the first engaging portions 131, and each of the third engaging surfaces 32C abuts against each of the first engaging portions 132.

[0103] Both the fourth abutment surface 32D and the fifth abutment surface 32E extend in the XY plane, and the fourth abutment surface 32D and the fifth abutment surface 32E face the same direction, both towards the +Z direction. The fourth abutment surface 32D abuts against the first engaging portion 131, and the first abutment portion 132 also has a surface extending in the XY direction, and the orientation of this surface is exactly the same as the orientation of the fifth abutment surface 32E, so that the two can abut against each other. Furthermore, the fourth abutment surface 32D abuts against the first engaging portion 131, and the fifth abutment surface 32E abuts against the first abutment portion 132, thereby limiting the relative movement space between the connecting frame 3 and the fixed seat 1 in the +Z direction. At the same time, since the connecting structure 32 as a whole abuts against the bottom of the fixed seat 1, it limits the relative movement space between the connecting frame 3 and the fixed seat 1 in the -Z direction. Thus, the third limiting structure 13 and the connecting structure 32 together limit the relative movement space between the connecting frame 3 and the fixed seat 1 in the Z direction.

[0104] Further, in some embodiments, as described above, the third limiting structure 13 includes at least two first abutting portions 132 and at least two first engaging portions 131. The connecting structure 32 includes at least two fourth abutting surfaces 32D and at least two fifth abutting surfaces 32E. Each fourth abutting surface 32D and each fifth abutting surface 32E extends in an XY plane, and all fourth abutting surfaces 32D and all fifth abutting surfaces 32E face the same direction, all facing the +Z direction. Each fourth abutting surface 32D abuts against each first engaging portion 131 one-to-one, and each first abutting portion 132 has a surface extending in the XY direction, and the orientation of this surface is exactly the same as the orientation of the fifth abutting surface 32E, so that the surface extending in the XY direction in each abutting portion abuts against each fifth abutting surface 32E one-to-one. Furthermore, each fourth abutment surface 32D abuts against each first engagement portion 131 in a one-to-one manner, and each fifth abutment surface 32E abuts against each first abutment portion 132 in a one-to-one manner, thereby better limiting the relative movement space between the connecting frame 3 and the fixed seat 1 in the +Z direction. At the same time, since the connecting structure 32 as a whole abuts against the bottom of the fixed seat 1, it limits the relative movement space between the connecting frame 3 and the fixed seat 1 in the -Z direction. Thus, the third limiting structure 13 and the connecting structure 32 together limit the relative movement space between the connecting frame 3 and the fixed seat 1 in the Z direction.

[0105] Therefore, the first engaging portion 131 and the first abutting portion 132 in the third limiting structure 13 restrict the relative movement of the connecting frame 3 and the fixed seat 1 in the Z, X and Y directions by abutting with the first abutting surface 32A, the second abutting surface 32B, the third abutting surface 32C, the fourth abutting surface 32D and the fifth abutting surface 32E in the connecting structure 32, thereby connecting the connecting frame 3 and the fixed seat 1 together.

[0106] Among them, such as Figure 16 As shown in the figure, P5 indicates the positions where the fifth abutting surface 32E abuts against the first abutting part 132 and the third abutting surface 32C abuts against the first abutting part 132.

[0107] More specifically, such as Figure 15 As shown, one end of the first engaging portion 131 is fixed to the bottom of the fixing base 1, and the other end is shaped like a snap fastener. Therefore, the first engaging portion 131 includes a fixing part fixed to the bottom of the fixing base 1, a snap fastener shaped like a snap fastener, and a middle part located between the fixing part and the snap fastener. The middle part of the first engaging portion 131 abuts against the first abutting surface 32A and the second abutting surface 32B in the connecting structure 32, and the snap fastener abuts against the fourth abutting surface 32D in the connecting structure 32.

[0108] Therefore, the snap-fit ​​part abuts against the fourth contact surface 32D in the connecting structure 32, thereby fastening the connecting structure 32 in the connecting frame 3 together with the third limiting structure 13 on the fixed seat 1, and thus fastening the connecting frame 3 together with the fixed seat 1. Since the limiting effect of the snap-fit ​​part is limited, the first contact part 132 needs to abut against the fifth contact surface 32E at the same time, thereby jointly limiting the relative movement space between the connecting frame 3 and the fixed seat 1 in the +Z direction.

[0109] In some embodiments, such as Figure 11 and Figure 13 As shown, the connecting structure 32 has a notch, the first abutting surface 32A and the second abutting surface 32B are provided on the inner wall of the notch, and the fourth abutting surface 32D is provided near the notch, so that the first engaging part 131 of the third limiting structure 13 can just abut in the notch and fasten near the notch.

[0110] Therefore, in summary, the third limiting structure 13 on the fixed base 1 limits the connecting structure 32 on the connecting frame 3, restricting the relative movement of the connecting frame 3 and the fixed base 1 in the Z, X and Y directions, thereby connecting the connecting frame 3 and the fixed base 1 together.

[0111] When the connecting frame 3 is installed onto the fixed base 1, the first abutting part 132 in the third limiting structure 13 first contacts the fifth abutting surface 32E in the connecting structure 32. At this time, the connecting frame 3 and the fixed base 1 form an acute angle. Then, the connecting frame 3 is rotated horizontally, and the contact area between the fifth abutting surface 32E and the first abutting part 132 gradually increases until the latching part in the first engaging part 131 of the third limiting structure 13 of the fixed base 1 just engages the connecting frame 3, so that the latching part 131... The buckle part abuts against the fourth abutting surface 32D of the connecting structure 32 on the connecting frame 3. At the same time, the middle part of the first engaging part 131 abuts against the first abutting surface 32A and the second abutting surface 32B in the connecting structure 32. The first abutting part 132 abuts against the third abutting surface 32C and the fifth abutting surface 32E. The bottom of the fixing seat 1 abuts against the entire connecting structure 32. At this time, the first ink nozzle 3A on the connecting frame 3 is aligned with the through port 1A on the fixing seat 1. At this time, the connecting frame 3 has been installed on the fixing seat 1.

[0112] As another embodiment of the connection method between the fixed base 1 and the connecting frame 3, such as Figure 19-23 As shown, the connecting structure 32 includes a second engaging portion 321 and a second abutting portion 322, and the third limiting structure 13 includes a locking hole 13A and a sixth abutting surface 13B. The third limiting structure 13 engages with the second engaging portion 321 through the locking hole 13A and abuts with the second abutting portion 322 through the sixth abutting surface 13B, thereby limiting the connecting structure 32. The locking hole 13A of the third limiting structure 13 is located at the bottom of the fixing base 1.

[0113] Furthermore, the locking hole 13A is a hole-like structure located at the bottom of the fixed base 1 in the fixed base 1, and the second engaging part 321 is a buckle-like structure located on the connecting frame 3. The size of the second engaging part 321 matches the size of the locking hole 13A, so that the second engaging part 321 can pass through the locking hole 13A on the fixed base 1 and fasten the fixed base 1, thereby limiting the relative movement space between the connecting frame 3 and the fixed base 1 in the X direction, Y direction and +Z direction.

[0114] Since the limiting effect of the latching part is limited, the sixth abutment surface 13B needs to abut against the second abutment part 322 to jointly limit the relative movement space between the connecting frame 3 and the fixed seat 1 in the +Z direction. Specifically, the sixth abutment surface 13B extends in the XY plane and faces the +Z direction; the second abutment part 322 has a surface extending in the XY plane and faces the -Z direction, so the two abut against each other, thereby limiting the relative movement space between the connecting frame 3 and the fixed seat 1 in the +Z direction.

[0115] Meanwhile, since the connecting structure 32 is in contact with the bottom of the fixed base 1, the relative movement space between the connecting frame 3 and the fixed base 1 in the -Z direction is limited. Thus, the third limiting structure 13 and the connecting structure 32 together limit the relative movement space between the connecting frame 3 and the fixed base 1 in the Z direction.

[0116] Therefore, by engaging the second engaging portion 321 of the connecting structure 32 with the locking hole 13A in the third limiting structure 13, abutting the sixth abutting surface 13B of the third limiting structure 13 with the second abutting portion 322 of the connecting structure 32, and abutting the bottom of the fixing seat 1 with the entire connecting structure 32, the relative movement of the connecting frame 3 and the fixing seat 1 in the X, Y and Z directions is restricted, thereby connecting the connecting frame 3 and the fixing seat 1 together.

[0117] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the connecting structure 32 includes at least two second engaging portions 321 and at least two second abutting portions 322, and the third limiting structure 13 includes at least two locking holes 13A and at least two sixth abutting surfaces 13B. The number of second engaging portions 321 is the same as the number of locking holes 13A, and each pair of engaging portions corresponds to one locking hole 13A. The number of second abutting portions 322 is the same as the number of sixth abutting surfaces 13B, and each second abutting portion 322 corresponds to one sixth abutting surface 13B. The locking holes 13A of the third limiting structure 13 are located at the bottom of the fixing base 1.

[0118] Furthermore, each latching hole 13A is a hole-like structure located at the bottom of the fixing base 1. Each second engaging portion 321 includes a fixing portion at one end, a latching portion at the other end, and a middle portion between the fixing portion and the latching portion. The fixing portion is fixed to the connecting structure 32, and the latching portion is a latching structure. The extension direction from the fixing portion to the latching portion is the -Z direction. Further, in some embodiments, each second engaging portion 321 is sized to fit each latching hole 13A. Thus, each second engaging portion 321 passes through its corresponding latching hole 13A, such that the latching portion of each second engaging portion 321 latches the corresponding latching hole 13A, and the middle portion of each second engaging portion 321 abuts against the inner wall of the corresponding latching hole 13A, thereby limiting the relative movement space between the connecting frame 3 and the fixing base 1 in the X, Y, and +Z directions.

[0119] Since the limiting effect of the latching part is limited, the sixth abutment part needs to abut against the second abutment part 322 to jointly limit the relative movement space between the connecting frame 3 and the fixed seat 1 in the +Z direction. Specifically, each sixth abutment surface 13B extends in the XY plane and faces the +Z direction; each second abutment part 322 has a surface extending in the XY plane and faces the -Z direction, so that the two abut against each other, thereby limiting the relative movement space between the connecting frame 3 and the fixed seat 1 in the +Z direction.

[0120] Among them, such as Figure 23 As shown in the figure, P7 indicates the position where the sixth contact surface 13B and the second contact part 322 abut against each other.

[0121] When the connecting frame 3 is installed on the fixed base 1, the sixth abutting surface 13B in the third limiting structure 13 first contacts the second abutting part 322 in the connecting structure 32. At this time, the connecting frame 3 and the fixed base 1 form an acute angle. Then, the connecting frame 3 is rotated in the horizontal direction, and the contact area between the sixth abutting surface 13B and the second abutting part 322 becomes larger and larger until the locking hole 13A in the third limiting structure 13 of the fixed base 1 is just locked by the buckle part in the second locking part 321 of the connecting structure 32. At this time, the sixth abutting surface 13B also just abuts against the second abutting part 322. The bottom of the fixed base 1 just abuts against the entire connecting structure 32. The first ink nozzle 3A on the connecting frame 3 is just aligned with the through port 1A on the fixed base 1. At this time, the connecting frame 3 has been installed on the fixed base 1.

[0122] Therefore, in the ink bag 100 provided by this utility model embodiment, the connecting frame 3 and the fixed base 1 can be connected together by simple snap-fit ​​and abutment action, thereby reducing the assembly method, simplifying the connection method between the connecting frame 3 and the fixed base 1, and thus reducing the manufacturing cost of the ink bag 100.

[0123] Furthermore, in some embodiments, such as Figure 10-16 and Figure 19-23 As shown, the third limiting structure 13 further includes a first guide portion 133, and the connecting structure 32 includes a second guide portion 323. The first guide portion 133 and the second guide portion 323 mutually limit each other to restrict the relative movement of the connecting frame 3 and the fixed base 1 in the ±Y direction. The first guide portion 133 is connected to the bottom of the fixed base 1 and extends in the +Z direction from the point of connection with the bottom. The length direction of the first guide portion 133 is parallel to the X direction, where the length direction refers to the direction of its longest dimension. The second guide portion 323 includes a protrusion 3231 that extends in the -Z direction on the connecting frame 3, and the length direction of the protrusion 3231 is parallel to the X direction. The protrusions 3231 in the first guide portion 133 and the second guide portion 323 are offset in the Y direction so that they can interlock, thereby restricting the relative movement of the connecting frame 3 and the fixed base 1 in the Y direction. The length direction of the protrusion 3231 refers to the direction of its longest dimension.

[0124] In some embodiments, the second guide portion 323 includes two protrusions 3231, both of which extend in the -Z direction on the connecting frame 3. Each protrusion 3231 is offset from the first guide portion 133 in the Y direction, and the first guide portion 133 is positioned between the two protrusions 3231, so that the first guide portion 133 and the second guide portion 323 can be interlocked. The first guide portion 133 being positioned between the two protrusions 3231 ensures that the movement of the first guide portion 133 relative to the second guide portion 323 in both the +Y and -Y directions is blocked by the protrusions 3231. This provides a better limiting effect between the first guide portion 133 and the second guide portion 323 in the Y direction, thereby better restricting the relative movement of the connecting frame 3 and the fixed base 1 in the Y direction.

[0125] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the third limiting structure 13 further includes a blocking portion 134. One side of the blocking portion 134 is connected to the bottom of the fixed base 1 and extends in the +Z direction from the point of connection with the bottom. The other side of the blocking portion 134 is connected to the first guide portion 133 and extends in the +Y or -Y direction from the point of connection with the first guide portion 133. This ensures that when the protrusion 3231 in the second guide portion 323 is engaged with the first guide portion 133, the second guide portion 323 is blocked by the blocking portion 134 and cannot move relative to the first guide portion 133 in the X direction. This further restricts the relative movement of the connecting frame 3 and the fixed base 1 in the X direction, making the connecting frame 3 and the fixed base 1 more tightly connected together.

Claims

1. A mounting base, detachably mounted on a tray, wherein the tray on which the mounting base is mounted is detachably mounted to an image forming apparatus, such that a chip on the mounting base forms an electrical connection with an electrical connection portion of the image forming apparatus having guide posts, characterized in that, The fixing base includes, A notch having a slope inclined in the Y direction; and At least one first limiting structure, wherein the first limiting structure is a guide protrusion that guides the guide post to form an electrical connection between the electrical connection portion of the image forming apparatus and the chip.

2. The fixing base according to claim 1, characterized in that, in, When the electrical connection portion forms an electrical connection with the chip, the guide protrusion is higher than the guide post in the Z direction.

3. The fixing base according to claim 1, characterized in that, The guide protrusions are in two sets, and the distance between the two sets of guide protrusions in the X direction is greater than the width of the electrical connection portion in the X direction.

4. The fixing base according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes at least one groove located at the upper end of the inclined surface, the groove intersecting with a line extending from the upper edge of the chip in the X direction.

5. The fixing base according to claim 4, characterized in that, in, When the electrical connection portion forms an electrical connection with the chip, the groove and the guide protrusion overlap with the projection of the guide post in the Z direction.

6. The fixing base according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The guide protrusion has a first guide surface on the side of the electrical connection portion along the Y direction.

7. The fixing base according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first guiding surface is one of a circular arc surface, an inclined surface, or a straight plane.

8. The fixing base according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a second limiting structure, which can restrict the movement of the fixed seat on the tray in the Y and X directions.

9. The fixing base according to claim 8, characterized in that, The tray has a protruding portion; The second limiting structure includes an abutment surface; and at least one engaging portion that abuts against the protrusion when the mounting base is installed onto the tray.

10. The fixing base according to claim 9, characterized in that, The second limiting structure also includes an engagement portion that extends in the Z direction on the abutment surface.

11. A liquid containing device, comprising a liquid containing section, characterized in that, The liquid container is detachably mounted with a fixing seat as described in any one of claims 1-10.

12. An image forming apparatus, comprising an electrical connection portion, characterized in that, The electrical connection portion is detachably connected to the liquid containment device of claim 11.

Images