Supporting piece of ink box

Abstract

An ink cartridge support for fixing an ink cartridge when adding ink to the ink cartridge, the ink cartridge having a front wall and a rear wall opposed to each other in a third direction and a top wall and a bottom wall opposed to each other in a first direction, the ink cartridge being horizontally inserted into a cartridge mounting portion of a printing device in the third direction, the rear wall being located on a rear side of the front wall in the third direction; the bottom wall is provided with a gas-liquid exchange part for fluid exchange with the outside, in the third direction, the distance from the gas-liquid exchange part to the rear wall is smaller than the distance from the gas-liquid exchange part to the front wall, and the ink box is provided with a concave part at the junction of the top wall and the rear wall; the supporting piece is provided with a flat supporting face and a containing groove matched with the ink box, at least part of the concave portion is located in the containing groove, in the first direction, the rear wall coincides with the containing groove, and the first direction is parallel to the plumb bob direction. The ink box is stably supported through the supporting piece, a user does not need to manually align and centralize the ink box, and the ink box is convenient to use.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of image forming technology, and in particular to a support for an ink cartridge. Background Technology

[0002] There is a type of high-capacity ink cartridge that features a valve-equipped outlet and is relatively expensive. To reduce operating costs, users often refill the cartridge themselves for reuse. Manufacturers have responded by offering refillable cartridges via the outlet. However, these cartridges require stable support to maintain proper alignment between the refill container and the cartridge; otherwise, misalignment can lead to leakage. Unfortunately, the cartridge holder in these products does not provide a stable fit, requiring manual adjustment by the user. Therefore, there is significant room for improvement in the cartridge holder design. Utility Model Content

[0003] To solve at least one of the above-mentioned technical problems, this utility model provides a support for an ink cartridge, used to fix the ink cartridge when adding ink. The ink cartridge has a front wall and a rear wall facing each other in a third direction, and a top wall and a bottom wall facing each other in a first direction. The ink cartridge can be horizontally inserted into the cartridge mounting part of a printing device in a third direction. The rear wall is located on the third-rear side of the front wall. The bottom wall is provided with a gas-liquid exchange part for fluid exchange with the outside. In the third direction, the distance from the gas-liquid exchange part to the rear wall is less than the distance to the front wall. The ink cartridge has a recessed part at the junction of the top wall and the rear wall.

[0004] The support member has a flat support surface and a receiving groove that mates with the ink cartridge. The recessed portion is at least partially located within the receiving groove. In a first direction, the rear wall overlaps with the receiving groove. The first direction is parallel to the plumb line direction.

[0005] This invention provides stable support for the ink cartridge through a support component, eliminating the need for users to manually align and straighten the ink cartridge, making it easy to use.

[0006] In some embodiments, the recess has an intersecting first wall and a second wall, the first wall being connected to the top wall and the second wall being connected to the rear wall, and in the third direction, the second wall at least partially overlaps with the receiving groove.

[0007] In some implementations, in the third direction, the first wall at least partially overlaps with the receiving groove.

[0008] In some embodiments, the ink cartridge also has two sidewalls facing each other in a second direction, and the inner side of the receiving groove also has two side baffles facing each other in a second direction. The distance between the two side baffles in the second direction is not less than the distance between the two sidewalls in the second direction, and the second direction is orthogonal to the first direction and the third direction.

[0009] In some embodiments, the inner side of the receiving groove also has a rear baffle that mates with the rear wall.

[0010] In some embodiments, the inner side of the receiving groove also has a lower support wall that cooperates with the first wall and / or the second wall.

[0011] In some embodiments, the side wall includes two opposing first side walls and two opposing second side walls, wherein in a second direction, the distance between the two first side walls is less than the distance between the two second side walls;

[0012] The rear baffle includes a first rear baffle and a second rear baffle. In the third direction, the first rear baffle is connected between two first side baffles, and the second rear baffle is connected between the first side baffle and the second side baffle.

[0013] The lower support wall includes a first lower support wall, a second lower support wall, and a third lower support wall. In a first direction, the first lower support wall and the second lower support wall are flush, and the third lower support wall is lower than the first lower support wall and the second lower support wall. The first lower support wall is connected between the first rear baffle wall and the first side baffle wall, the second lower support wall is connected between the second rear baffle wall and the second side baffle wall, and the third lower support wall is located between the two second lower support walls.

[0014] In some implementations, the support surface is flush with the top wall in the first direction.

[0015] In some implementations, the support is a fixed structure.

[0016] In some implementations, the support member is a foldable plate-like structure.

[0017] In some embodiments, with the width direction of the support member when it is laid flat as X and the length direction as Y, and X and Y being perpendicular, the support member when laid flat has the following characteristics:

[0018] The first fold line, the second fold line, and the third fold line are parallel to the X direction and are arranged alternately towards the -Y direction.

[0019] The hollowed-out portion is formed between the first fold line and the third fold line; and

[0020] The fourth and fifth fold lines are located on the -Y side of the third fold line, and the straight lines containing the fourth and fifth fold lines can intersect the straight lines containing the first, second, and third fold lines.

[0021] The flat support member can be folded sequentially along the first fold line, the second fold line and the third fold line, and its -X side can be folded upward along the fourth fold line to form a wing, and its +X side can be folded upward along the fifth fold line to form a wing. The part on the +Y side of the first fold line can be joined with the wing.

[0022] In some embodiments, the fourth and fifth fold lines are perpendicular to the first, second, and third fold lines, parallel to the Y direction, and spaced apart along the X direction;

[0023] The hollowed-out section is a rectangular hollowed-out section, with its four rectangular sides parallel to the X or Y direction respectively. The rectangular side located on the +Y side coincides with the first fold line, and the rectangular side located on the -Y side coincides with the third fold line.

[0024] In some embodiments, the support member, when laid flat, also has:

[0025] The first cutting line and the second cutting line are located on the -Y side of the third fold line and are parallel to the X direction. The first cutting line connects the fourth fold line and the -X edge of the support member, and the second cutting line connects the fifth fold line and the +X edge of the support member.

[0026] The first insertion part and the second insertion part are parallel to the Y direction and spaced apart in the X direction, and are disposed between the first fold line and the +Y edge of the support member; and

[0027] The third insertion part and the fourth insertion part are parallel to the X direction and located on the same straight line. The third insertion part extends from the -X edge of the support member to the direction of the fourth fold line and is located between the first cutting line and the -Y edge of the support member. The fourth insertion part extends from the +X edge of the support member to the direction of the fifth fold line and is located between the second cutting line and the -Y edge of the support member.

[0028] The first insertion part is adapted to the third insertion part, and the second insertion part is adapted to the fourth insertion part. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the docking state of the ink cartridge refilling tool and the ink cartridge in Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0030] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the ink cartridge according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0031] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the adapter of Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0032] Figure 4 This is a structural schematic diagram of the adapter from another perspective of Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0033] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the adapter according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0034] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the ink cartridge refilling tool and the ink cartridge in the docked state according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0035] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A magnified view of point A;

[0036] Figure 8 This is a structural schematic diagram of the support member according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0037] Figure 9 This is a structural schematic diagram of the support member according to another perspective of Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0038] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the black ink cartridge placed on the support member according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0039] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of the color ink cartridge placed on the support member according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model;

[0040] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the support component according to Embodiment 2 of this utility model;

[0041] Figure 13 This is a structural schematic diagram of the support member according to another perspective of Embodiment 2 of this utility model;

[0042] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the support member in the second embodiment of the present invention when it is laid flat;

[0043] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the folding process of the support member in Embodiment 2 of this utility model;

[0044] Figure label:

[0045] Ink cartridge 1; Top wall 111; Bottom wall 112; Side wall 113; Front wall 114; Rear wall 115; Recess 116; First wall 117; Second wall 118; Locking protrusion 119; Gas-liquid exchange section 120; Engaging cavity 121; Ink cavity 122; Movable valve core 123; Elastic element 124; Ink storage component 125; Adapter 126; Chip 127;

[0046] Ink filling container 2; ink storage chamber 21; outlet section 22; first stepped surface 221; second stepped surface 222; self-sealing valve 23; sealing ring 24;

[0047] Adapter 3; base plate 31; flow path 32; first pipe 321; second pipe 322; enclosure 33; outer retaining ring 331; inner retaining ring 332; guide rib 333; anti-overflow area 34; extension 35; locking arm 361; protrusion 3611; operating arm 362; limit retaining ring 37; outer pressure plate 38;

[0048] Support member 4; Support surface 41; Receiving groove 42; Side wall 421; First side wall 4211; Second side wall 4212; Rear wall 422; First rear wall 4221; Second rear wall 4222; Lower support wall 423; First lower support wall 4231; Second lower support wall 4232; Third lower support wall 4233; First fold line 431; Second fold line 432; Third fold line 433; Fourth fold line 434; Fifth fold line 435; Rectangular hollow part 44; First cutting line 451; Second cutting line 452; First insertion part 461; Second insertion part 462; Third insertion part 463; Fourth insertion part 464. Detailed Implementation

[0049] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of the present invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0050] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this utility model, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0051] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "fixation" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "installation" and "connection" can refer to fixed connections or movable connections, and "fixation" can refer to non-removable fixed connections or detachable fixed connections. A "non-removable fixed connection" can be formed separately and then installed, or it can be directly integrally formed; it can be a mechanical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can be a connection within two components or an interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0052] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0053] In the above description, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0054] This utility model provides an ink cartridge refilling tool for refilling ink cartridge 1.

[0055] See Figure 1-2 The ink cartridge 1 in this embodiment has the following structure: taking the height direction of the ink cartridge 1 as a first direction, which is parallel to the plumb line direction, the ink cartridge 1 has a top wall 111 and a bottom wall 112 facing each other in the first direction; taking the width direction of the ink cartridge 1 as a second direction, the ink cartridge 1 has two side walls 113 facing each other in the second direction; taking the length direction of the ink cartridge 1 as a third direction, the ink cartridge 1 has a front wall 114 and a rear wall 115 facing each other in the third direction; the ink cartridge 1 can be extended along the third direction (specifically... Figure 1 The middle three-way arrow points to the right) horizontally inserts into the box mounting part of the printing device.

[0056] See Figure 1-7The ink cartridge 1 includes an ink reservoir 125 and an adapter 126. An ink cavity 122 is provided within the ink reservoir 125. A chip 127 and a gas-liquid exchange section 120 are provided on the adapter 126. The gas-liquid exchange section 120 is used for fluid exchange with the outside environment. In this embodiment, the top wall 111 of the ink cartridge 1 is formed on the ink reservoir 125, and the bottom wall 112 is formed on the adapter 126. The front wall 114, rear wall 115, and side wall 113 of the ink cartridge each include portions formed on the ink reservoir 125 and portions formed on the adapter 126. The liquid exchange section 120 is disposed on the bottom wall 112. In the third direction, the distance from the liquid exchange section 120 to the rear wall 115 is less than the distance to the front wall 114. The ink cartridge 1 has a recess 116 at the intersection of the top wall 111 and the rear wall 115. The recess 116 has intersecting first walls 117 and second walls 118. The first wall 117 is connected to the top wall 111, and the second wall 118 is connected to the rear wall 115. The two opposing side walls 113 of the ink cartridge 1 in the second direction have locking protrusions 119 on the adapter 126.

[0057] The gas-liquid exchange section 120 of the ink cartridge 1 extends inward to the connecting cavity 121 and the ink cavity 122. The gas-liquid exchange section 120 is an opening formed on the bottom wall 112 of the connecting cavity 121 facing the outside. The ink cavity 122 is used to store ink. The ink cartridge 1 also has a movable valve core 123 for changing the communication state between the ink cavity 122 and the connecting cavity 121. An elastic member 124 is provided between the movable valve core 123 and the ink cavity 122. With the bottom wall 112 of the ink cartridge 1 facing upward, when the movable valve core 123 is subjected to an external force and moves downward, the elastic member 124 is compressed, and the connecting cavity 121 and the ink cavity 122 are connected, allowing the ink cavity 122 to exchange gas and liquid with the outside. When the external force on the movable valve core 123 disappears, it returns to its original position under the action of the elastic member 124, and the connecting cavity 121 and the ink cavity 122 are no longer connected, preventing the ink cavity 122 from exchanging gas and liquid with the outside.

[0058] See Figure 1 The ink cartridge refill tool includes an ink container 2 and an adapter 3 that is detachably connected to the ink cartridge 1. The ink container 2 has an ink storage chamber 21 for storing ink and an ink outlet 22 for discharging ink.

[0059] See Figure 3-7The adapter 3 includes a base plate 31 and a flow path 32 extending through the base plate 31 along a first direction. The axial direction of the flow path 32 is the first direction. The flow path 32 is used to connect the ink container 2 and the ink cartridge 1. The flow path 32 includes a first tube 321 and a second tube 322 that are interconnected. The first tube 321 and the second tube 322 are located on opposite sides of the base plate 31 in the first direction. The base plate 31 has a blocking portion 33 on the outside of the first tube 321 that abuts against the outlet portion 22 in the first direction. At least a portion of the blocking portion 33 is larger in the first direction than the first tube 321 in the first direction. The first tube 321 passes through the outlet portion 22 and communicates with the ink storage chamber 21. The second tube 322 passes through the connecting cavity 121 and abuts against the movable valve core 123 and communicates with the ink chamber 122. A sealing ring 24 can also be provided in the joint cavity 121 for interference fit with the outer wall of the second tube 322 to prevent ink leakage.

[0060] Specifically, the enclosure portion 33 includes an outer retaining ring 331 coaxially disposed with the first pipe fitting 321, and the outlet portion 22 is a stepped columnar structure. The outlet portion 22 includes a first stepped surface 221 abutting against the outer retaining ring 331 in a first direction. The outer retaining ring 331 is larger in the first direction than the first pipe fitting 321 in the first direction. The enclosure portion 33 also includes an inner retaining ring 332 located between the outer retaining ring 331 and the first pipe fitting 321. In the first direction, the outlet portion 22 overlaps with the inner retaining ring 332. The enclosure portion 33 also includes a guide rib 333 disposed inside the outer retaining ring 331, and the outlet portion 22 also includes a second stepped surface 222 abutting against the guide rib 333 in the first direction. In the first direction, the guide rib 333 overlaps with the first pipe fitting 321. Specifically, the guide rib 333 extends along the first direction and is connected to the inner retaining ring 332. The guide rib 333 is disposed between the outer retaining ring 331 and the inner retaining ring 332. In the first direction, the lengths of the outer retaining ring 331, the guide rib 333 and the inner retaining ring 332 decrease sequentially.

[0061] See Figure 7 In this embodiment, the outlet portion 22 and the inner retaining ring 332 are configured such that when the outlet portion 22 is inserted into the inner retaining ring 332, the outlet portion 22 has a gap portion between its end in the first direction and the substrate 31, and the gap portion is limited between the first tube 321 and the inner retaining ring 332 to form an overflow prevention zone 34.

[0062] See Figure 3-7In this embodiment, the substrate 31 is provided with extension portions 35 at both ends in the second direction. The adapter 3 also includes a locking portion that cooperates with the locking protrusion 119. The locking portion is located at the end of the extension portion 35 in the second direction. Specifically, the locking portion includes a locking arm 361 and an operating arm 362 that can move in the second direction. There are two locking arms 361 and two operating arms 362. The locking arm 361 is located on the side of the extension portion 35 facing the ink cartridge 1 (i.e., the downward side). The two locking arms 361 are provided with protrusions 3611 that cooperate with the locking protrusion 119 on the opposite sides in the second direction. The operating arm 362 is located on the side of the extension portion 35 facing the ink container 2 (i.e., the upward side). The adapter 3 also includes limiting rings 37 located on opposite sides of the outer retaining ring 331 in the second direction. Each operating arm 362 is located within a limiting ring 37. The limiting rings 37 are used to protect the operating arm 362 and limit its range of motion. The limiting ring 37 has an outer pressure plate 38 on the side of the ink cartridge 1 (i.e. the downward side) that is parallel to or coincides with the plane of the substrate 31. The outer pressure plate 38 is used to provide an auxiliary force point for the user when the adapter 3 is installed to the ink cartridge 1.

[0063] See Figure 6-7 During the docking process between the ink container 2 and the adapter 3, the outlet part 22 first enters the outer retaining ring 331. At this stage, the outer retaining ring 331 can assist the alignment between the first tube 321 and the outlet part 22. Then, the end of the outlet part 22 contacts the guide rib 333 and moves along the guide rib 333. The guide rib 333 acts on the end of the outlet part 22 and guides it to engage with the first tube 321. Finally, the end of the outlet part 22 enters the inner retaining ring 332 and moves downward to the position where the outlet part 22 abuts against the outer retaining ring 331 and the guide rib 333 in the first direction. That is, the first step surface 221 abuts against the outer retaining ring 331 in the first direction, and the second step surface 222 abuts against the guide rib 333 in the first direction. At this time, the outlet part 22 no longer moves downward and is thus positioned, and the docking is completed. The inner retaining ring 332 serves a dual function: alignment and forming an overflow prevention zone 34. When the connection is complete and ink is being added, the outlet portion 22, the outer retaining ring 331, and the guide rib 333 all abut against each other in the first direction, ensuring the connection stability between the adapter 3 and the ink container 2. Furthermore, a gap exists between the outlet portion 22's first-direction end and the substrate 31, forming the overflow prevention zone 34. The abutment between the first step surface 221 and the second step surface 222 of the outlet portion 22 and the outer retaining ring 331 and guide rib 333 improves the fit stability between the ink container 2 and the adapter 3. The guide rib 333 and the inner retaining ring 332 suppress the tilt of the ink container 2 relative to the first direction. Even if a small amount of ink leakage occurs due to the tilt of the ink container 2, it is confined within the overflow prevention zone 34, facilitating cleaning and preventing contamination of other parts of the ink container 2 and the adapter 3.

[0064] See Figure 8-9 Preferably, the ink cartridge refilling tool of this embodiment further includes a support member 4 for fixing the ink cartridge 1 when refilling ink. The support member 4 has a flat support surface 41, which may or may not have a hollow structure. In this embodiment, it has a hollow structure (see...). Figure 9 To reduce the overall weight of the support member 4, the support member 4 has at least one receiving groove 42 for accommodating a portion of the ink cartridge 1. Specifically, see [reference needed]. Figure 1 , 2 The recessed portion 116 at least partially overlaps with the support member 4 in the first direction. In the first direction, the rear wall 115 overlaps with the receiving groove 42, that is, in the first direction, the receiving groove 42 extends beyond the recessed portion 116 in height. Since the gas-liquid exchange section 120 is located near the rear wall 115 of the ink cartridge 1, setting the support member 4 to cooperate with the end of the ink cartridge 1 near the rear wall 115 helps to improve the support stability and facilitates the miniaturization of the support member 4. Furthermore, considering the presence of the recessed portion 116 at the aforementioned end, setting the receiving groove 42 of the support member 4 to accommodate a portion of one end of the ink cartridge 1 and extending beyond the recessed portion 116 in height further ensures the stability of the cooperation with the end of the ink cartridge 1, which is beneficial for maintaining the cooperation posture between the ink filling container 2 and the adapter 3 and the ink cartridge 1 and preventing ink leakage.

[0065] Preferably, in the third direction, the second wall 118 at least partially overlaps with the receiving groove 42, that is, the second wall 118 partially overlaps with the receiving groove 42, or the second wall 118 completely overlaps with the receiving groove 42. In this embodiment, it is preferable that the second wall 118 overlaps with the receiving groove 42, that is, in the third direction, the second wall 118 is completely located within the receiving groove 42. In the third direction, the first wall 117 at least partially overlaps with the receiving groove 42, that is, the first wall 117 partially overlaps with the receiving groove 42, or the first wall 117 completely overlaps with the receiving groove 42.

[0066] Preferably, in the first direction, the support surface 41 is flush with the top wall 111, that is, the support surface 41 and the top wall 111 are located on the same plane, making the support for the ink cartridge 1 more stable. In the third direction, the top wall 111 partially overlaps with the receiving groove 42 or does not overlap at all, that is, the top wall 111 is partially located inside the receiving groove 42, or the top wall 111 is completely located outside the receiving groove 42.

[0067] See Figure 8Preferably, the inner side of the receiving groove 42 further includes two opposing side baffles 421 in a second direction, the distance between the two side baffles 421 in the second direction being not less than the distance between the two side walls 113 in the second direction, and the second direction being orthogonal to the first direction and the third direction. The inner side of the receiving groove 42 also includes a rear baffle 422 that cooperates with the rear wall 115. The inner side of the receiving groove 42 also includes a lower support wall 423 that cooperates with the first wall 117 and / or the second wall 118. The side baffles 421 are used to cooperate with the two side walls 113 of the ink cartridge 1, thereby limiting the ink cartridge 1 in the second direction; the rear baffle 422 is used to cooperate with the rear wall 115 of the ink cartridge 1, thereby limiting the ink cartridge 1 in the third direction; and the lower support wall 423 is used to cooperate with the first wall 117 and / or the second wall 118 of the ink cartridge 1, thereby limiting the ink cartridge 1 in the first direction. The above configuration improves the support stability of the ink cartridge 1.

[0068] Furthermore, the side wall 421 includes two opposing first side walls 4211 and two opposing second side walls 4212. In a second direction, the distance between the two first side walls 4211 is less than the distance between the two second side walls 4212. The rear wall 422 includes a first rear wall 4221 and a second rear wall 4222. In a third direction, the first rear wall 4221 is connected between the two first side walls 4211, and the second rear wall 4222 is connected between the first side walls 4211 and the second side walls 4212. The lower support wall 423 includes a first lower support wall 4231, a second lower support wall 4232, and a third lower support wall 4233. In a first direction, the first lower support wall 4231 and the second lower support wall 4232 are flush, and the third lower support wall 4233 is lower than the first lower support wall 4231 and the second lower support wall 4232. The first lower support wall 4231 is connected between the first rear baffle wall 4221 and the first side baffle wall 4211. The second lower support wall 4232 is connected between the second rear baffle wall 4222 and the second side baffle wall 4212. The third lower support wall 4233 is located between the two second lower support walls 4232.

[0069] In this embodiment, ink cartridge 1 comes in two sizes, with the black ink cartridge and the color ink cartridge having different capacities. Therefore, the two types of ink cartridge 1 have different dimensions in the second direction. The black ink cartridge is thicker in the second direction. (See reference...) Figure 10 When the black ink cartridge is supported by the support member 4, it rests on the two second lower support walls 4232. The two side walls 113 of the black ink cartridge mate with the second side baffles 4212, and the rear wall 115 of the black ink cartridge mates with the two second rear baffles 4222. The color ink cartridge has a smaller thickness in the second direction. (See reference...) Figure 11When the color ink cartridge is supported by the support member 4, the color ink cartridge is placed on the first lower support wall 4231, the two side walls 113 of the color ink cartridge cooperate with the first side baffle wall 4211, and the rear wall 115 of the color ink cartridge cooperates with the first rear baffle wall 4221. The above-mentioned configuration of the support member 4 allows it to be adapted for use with two sizes of ink cartridges 1, increasing the versatility of the support member 4.

[0070] In this embodiment, the support member 4 is a fixed structure. Specifically, the support member 4 can be manufactured in one piece. The support member 4 can be a plastic part, manufactured by one-piece injection molding.

[0071] This embodiment also provides a method for using an ink cartridge refill tool, including the following steps:

[0072] S1: Place ink cartridge 1 and support member 4: Place ink cartridge 1 with the joint cavity 121 facing upward, that is, place ink cartridge 1 with the top wall 111 facing downward and the bottom wall 112 facing upward, and place support member 4 at one end where the recess 116 of ink cartridge 1 is located to support ink cartridge 1.

[0073] S2: Install adapter 3: Insert the second tube 322 of adapter 3 into the connecting cavity 121, abutting against the movable valve core 123 and communicating with the ink cavity 122. Engage the protrusion 3611 of adapter 3 with the locking protrusion 119 of ink cartridge 1. Specifically, insert the second tube 322 of adapter 3 into the connecting cavity 121, abutting against the movable valve core 123 and communicating with the ink cavity 122. The lower end of the second tube 322 presses down on the movable valve core 123, causing the movable valve core 123 to move downward, thus communicating the connecting cavity 121 with the ink cavity 122. Simultaneously, the protrusion 3611 of the adapter 3 engages with the locking protrusion 119 of the ink cartridge 1. Specifically, by pressing the adapter 3 downwards, the protrusion 3611 on the engaging arm 361 moves downwards past the locking protrusion 119. During this process, the two engaging arms 361 deform relative to each other in a second direction and move in opposite directions. After the protrusion 3611 has completely passed the locking protrusion 119, the deformation of the engaging arm 361 returns to normal, and the two engaging arms 361 move closer to each other in a second direction, so that the protrusion 3611 engages with the locking protrusion 119. During the above-mentioned force application process, the user can press their finger on the outer pressure plate 38 to apply downward force, thereby pressing the adapter 3 down and engaging the protrusion 3611 with the locking protrusion 119.

[0074] S3: Install ink container 2: Insert the outlet portion 22 of ink container 2 downward into the retaining portion 33 of adapter 3. The first tube 321 of adapter 3 passes through the outlet portion 22 and communicates with the ink storage chamber 21 of ink container 2. Specifically, when the outlet portion 22 of ink container 2 is inserted downward into the retaining portion 33 of adapter 3, the first step surface 221 of outlet portion 22 abuts against the outer retaining ring 331 of retaining portion 33 in the first direction, the second step surface 222 of outlet portion 22 abuts against the guide rib 333 of retaining portion 33 in the first direction, and the end of outlet portion 22 in the first direction is inserted into the inner retaining ring 332 of retaining portion 33. A gap portion is formed between the end of outlet portion 22 in the first direction and the base plate 31 of adapter 3. The gap portion is limited between the first tube 321 and the inner retaining ring 332 to form an overflow prevention zone 34. At the same time, the first tube 321 of the adapter 3 is inserted into the outlet 22 and pierces the self-sealing valve 23 inside the outlet 22 upward, so that the first tube 321 is connected to the ink storage chamber 21 of the ink container 2.

[0075] After installation, the ink container 2 forms a fluid channel with the ink chamber 122 of the ink cartridge 1 via the adapter 3. In this embodiment, the flow path 32 has two channels, namely, two channels are provided in both the first tube 321 and the second tube 322. One channel is for ink to pass through, and the other channel is for airflow, thus increasing the ink filling efficiency. The two channels have a height difference in the first direction, which facilitates the flow of ink and gas in the two channels respectively. Figure 7 The left arrow indicates the direction of gas flow, and the right arrow indicates the direction of ink flow. Ink can also be quickly output from the ink container 2 by squeezing the ink storage chamber 21.

[0076] After ink filling is complete, first pull the ink container 2 out of the adapter 3. Then, press the two operating arms 362 on the adapter 3 to deform the two operating arms 362 in the second direction and move them towards each other, that is, the distance between the two operating arms 362 in the second direction decreases. Since the operating arms 362 and the locking arms 361 are connected to each other, the two locking arms 361 move away from each other in the second direction, that is, the distance between the two locking arms 361 in the second direction increases. At this time, apply an upward force to the adapter 3 so that the protrusion 3611 on the locking arm 361 moves upward past the locking protrusion 119. After the protrusion 3611 disengages from the locking protrusion 119, release the operating arm 362, and the deformation of the operating arm 362 and the locking arm 361 returns to normal. After the second tube 322 of the adapter 3 disengages from the movable valve core 123, the movable valve core 123 is reset upward under the action of the elastic member 124, thereby closing the connection between the engagement cavity 121 and the ink cavity 122.

[0077] This invention, by providing a retaining section on the adapter, guides the connection between the first tube and the outlet section, suppressing the tilt of the ink filling container relative to the first direction, and improving the connection stability between the adapter and the ink filling container. This makes the ink filling process easier to operate and less prone to ink leakage. This invention also provides stable support for the ink cartridge through a support member, eliminating the need for manual alignment and straightening by the user, thus facilitating use.

[0078] Example 2

[0079] See Figure 12-15 This embodiment is largely the same as the previous one, except that the support member 4 in this embodiment is not a fixed structure, but a foldable plate structure.

[0080] Specifically, the support member 4 in this embodiment can be made of foldable board material such as cardboard. The cardboard can be pre-cut according to the design shape and pressed with corresponding fold lines to facilitate folding. Before use, the support member 4 can be packaged and transported in a flat manner to improve space utilization and reduce storage and transportation costs. When needed, the user folds it according to the pre-designed method, thereby forming a support surface 41 and a receiving groove 42 on the support member 4. The receiving groove 42 forms a rear baffle 422, a side baffle 421, and a lower support wall 423.

[0081] See Figure 14 With the width direction of the support member 4 when it is laid flat as X and the length direction as Y, and X and Y being perpendicular, specifically, the support member 4 when laid flat has the following characteristics:

[0082] The first fold line 431, the second fold line 432, and the third fold line 433 are parallel to the X direction and are arranged alternately towards the -Y direction.

[0083] The fourth fold line 434 and the fifth fold line 435 are located on the -Y side of the third fold line 433. The straight lines containing the fourth fold line 434 and the fifth fold line 435 can intersect the straight lines containing the first fold line 431, the second fold line 432, and the third fold line 433. Preferably, the fourth fold line 434 and the fifth fold line 435 are perpendicular to the first fold line 431, the second fold line 432, and the third fold line 433, parallel to the Y direction, and spaced apart along the X direction. In other embodiments, the straight lines containing the fourth fold line 434 and the fifth fold line 435 may also be inclined to the straight lines containing the first fold line 431, the second fold line 432, and the third fold line 433.

[0084] The cutout portion 44 is formed between the first fold line 431 and the third fold line 433. Preferably, the cutout portion 44 can be any shape with two sides parallel to the Y direction. For example, the cutout portion 44 can be a parallelogram or a trapezoid. More preferably, the cutout portion 44 can be a rectangular cutout portion, with its four rectangular sides parallel to the X direction or the Y direction respectively. Its rectangular side on the +Y side coincides with the first fold line, and its rectangular side on the -Y side coincides with the third fold line.

[0085] The flat support member can be folded sequentially along the first fold line 431, the second fold line 432 and the third fold line 433, and its -X side can be folded upward along the fourth fold line 434 to form a wing, and its +X side can be folded upward along the fifth fold line 435 to form a wing. The part on the +Y side of the first fold line 431 can be joined with the wing.

[0086] Preferably, when the support member 4 is laid flat, it also has the following characteristics:

[0087] The first cutting line 451 and the second cutting line 452 are located on the -Y side of the third fold line 433 and are parallel to the X direction. The first cutting line 451 is connected between the fourth fold line 434 and the -X edge of the support member 4, and the second cutting line 452 is connected between the fifth fold line 435 and the +X edge of the support member 4.

[0088] The first insertion portion 461 and the second insertion portion 462 are parallel to the Y direction and spaced apart in the X direction, and are disposed between the first fold line 431 and the +Y edge of the support member 4; and

[0089] The third insertion part 463 and the fourth insertion part 464 are parallel to the X direction and located on the same straight line. The third insertion part 463 extends from the -X edge of the support member 4 towards the fourth fold line 434 and is disposed between the first cutting line 451 and the -Y edge of the support member 4. The fourth insertion part 464 extends from the +X edge of the support member 4 towards the fifth fold line 435 and is disposed between the second cutting line 452 and the -Y edge of the support member 4. The first insertion part 461 is adapted to the third insertion part 463, and the second insertion part 462 is adapted to the fourth insertion part 464.

[0090] See Figure 15 When folding the support member 4, the cardboard is folded sequentially along the first fold line 431, the second fold line 432 and the third fold line 433, each folding about 90 degrees. The -X side is folded upward about 90 degrees along the fourth fold line 434, and the +X side is folded upward about 90 degrees along the fifth fold line 435. Then, the first insertion part 461 and the third insertion part 463 are inserted and fixed, and the second insertion part 462 and the fourth insertion part 464 are inserted and fixed.

[0091] See Figure 12-14After folding, a support surface 41 is formed in the portion between the third fold line 433 and the first cutting line 451 and the second cutting line 452. A lower support wall 423 is formed in the middle of the support surface 41 in the X direction. A rear baffle 422 is formed between the first fold line 431, the first insertion part 461, the second insertion part 462 and the +Y edge of the support member 4. One side baffle 421 is formed between the first cutting line 451, the fourth fold line 434, the third insertion part 463 and the -X edge of the support member 4. Another side baffle 421 is formed between the second cutting line 452, the fifth fold line 435, the fourth insertion part 464 and the +X edge of the support member 4. An opening for the receiving groove 42 is formed by the rectangular hollow part 44.

[0092] The support member 4 in Embodiment 1 can be compatible with two sizes of ink cartridges 1. In this embodiment, the foldable support member 4 is only configured to be suitable for one size of ink cartridge 1. In other embodiments, the foldable support member 4 can also be configured with a structure similar to the support member 4 in Embodiment 1 to be suitable for two sizes of ink cartridges 1.

[0093] The above descriptions are merely some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, various modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the inventive concept of this utility model, or the above technical solutions can be freely combined, including freely combining the technical features of the different embodiments described above. All of these fall within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. A support for an ink cartridge, the ink cartridge having a front wall and a rear wall facing each other in a third direction, and a top wall and a bottom wall facing each other in a first direction, the ink cartridge being horizontally insertable into a cartridge mounting portion of a printing device in the third direction, the rear wall being located on a third direction rear side of the front wall, the bottom wall having a gas-liquid exchange portion for fluid exchange with the outside, the gas-liquid exchange portion being located closer to the rear wall than to the front wall in the third direction, the ink cartridge having a recess at an intersection of the top wall and the rear wall, characterized in that: the support has a flat support surface and a receiving groove for engaging the ink cartridge, the recess being at least partially located in the receiving groove, the rear wall and the receiving groove being coincident in the first direction, the first direction being parallel to a plumb direction. the recess has a first wall and a second wall intersecting each other, the first wall being connected to the top wall, the second wall being connected to the rear wall, the second wall being at least partially coincident with the receiving groove in the third direction.

2. The ink cartridge support of claim 1, wherein the first wall is at least partially coincident with the receiving groove in the third direction.

3. The ink cartridge support of claim 2, wherein the ink cartridge further has two side walls facing each other in a second direction, the receiving groove further has two side stop walls facing each other in the second direction, the two side stop walls being spaced apart from each other in the second direction by a distance not less than a distance between the two side walls in the second direction, the second direction being orthogonal to the first direction and the third direction.

4. The ink cartridge support of claim 3, wherein the receiving groove further has a rear stop wall for engaging the rear wall.

5. The ink cartridge support of claim 4, wherein the receiving groove further has a lower support wall for engaging the first wall and / or the second wall.

6. The ink cartridge support of claim 5, wherein the side stop walls include two opposite first side stop walls and two opposite second side stop walls, the two first side stop walls being spaced apart from each other in the second direction by a distance less than a distance between the two second side stop walls in the second direction.

7. The ink cartridge support of claim 6, wherein the rear stop wall includes a first rear stop wall and a second rear stop wall, the first rear stop wall being connected between the two first side stop walls in the third direction, the second rear stop wall being connected between the first side stop wall and the second side stop wall in the third direction. the lower support wall includes a first lower support wall, a second lower support wall, and a third lower support wall, the first lower support wall and the second lower support wall being flush with each other in the first direction, the third lower support wall being lower than the first lower support wall and the second lower support wall in the first direction, the first lower support wall being connected between the first rear stop wall and the first side stop wall, the second lower support wall being connected between the second rear stop wall and the second side stop wall, the third lower support wall being located between the two second lower support walls. the support surface is flush with the top wall in the first direction.

8. The ink cartridge support of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the support is a fixed structure.

9. The ink cartridge support of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the support is a foldable plate-like structure.

10. The ink cartridge support of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein when the support is laid flat, a width direction of the support is X, a length direction of the support is Y, X and Y are perpendicular to each other, and the support has:

11. The ink cartridge support of claim 10, wherein a first fold line, a second fold line, and a third fold line, the first fold line, the second fold line, and the third fold line being parallel to the X direction and being spaced apart from each other toward the -Y direction in sequence; an opening portion formed between the first fold line and the third fold line; and ​ ​ a fourth fold line and a fifth fold line, which are located at the -Y side of the third fold line, and the straight line where the fourth fold line and the fifth fold line are located can intersect with the straight line where the first fold line, the second fold line and the third fold line are located; the flat support can be folded along the first fold line, the second fold line and the third fold line in turn, and the -X side of the support is folded upward along the fourth fold line to form a wing, and the +X side of the support is folded upward along the fifth fold line to form a wing, and the part of the +Y side of the first fold line can be engaged with the wings.

12. The ink cartridge support of claim 11, wherein the fourth fold line and the fifth fold line are perpendicular to the first fold line, the second fold line and the third fold line, parallel to the Y direction and arranged along the X direction; the hollow part is a rectangular hollow part, and the four rectangular edges are parallel to the X direction or the Y direction, the rectangular edge at the +Y side coincides with the first fold line, and the rectangular edge at the -Y side coincides with the third fold line.

13. The ink cartridge support of claim 11, wherein the support also has the following when it is flat: a first cutting line and a second cutting line, which are located at the -Y side of the third fold line and parallel to the X direction, the first cutting line is connected between the fourth fold line and the -X edge of the support, and the second cutting line is connected between the fifth fold line and the +X edge of the support; a first insertion part and a second insertion part, which are parallel to the Y direction and arranged along the X direction, and are arranged between the first fold line and the +Y edge of the support; and a third insertion part and a fourth insertion part, which are parallel to the X direction and located on the same straight line, the third insertion part extends from the -X edge of the support to the direction of the fourth fold line, and is arranged between the first cutting line and the -Y edge of the support, and the fourth insertion part extends from the +X edge of the support to the direction of the fifth fold line, and is arranged between the second cutting line and the -Y edge of the support; the first insertion part is matched with the third insertion part, and the second insertion part is matched with the fourth insertion part. the fourth fold line and the fifth fold line are perpendicular to the first fold line, the second fold line and the third fold line, parallel to the Y direction and arranged along the X direction; the hollow part is a rectangular hollow part, and the four rectangular edges are parallel to the X direction or the Y direction, the rectangular edge at the +Y side coincides with the first fold line, and the rectangular edge at the -Y side coincides with the third fold line. the support also has the following when it is flat: a first cutting line and a second cutting line, which are located at the -Y side of the third fold line and parallel to the X direction, the first cutting line is connected between the fourth fold line and the -X edge of the support, and the second cutting line is connected between the fifth fold line and the +X edge of the support; a first insertion part and a second insertion part, which are parallel to the Y direction and arranged along the X direction, and are arranged between the first fold line and the +Y edge of the support; and a third insertion part and a fourth insertion part, which are parallel to the X direction and located on the same straight line, the third insertion part extends from the -X edge of the support to the direction of the fourth fold line, and is arranged between the first cutting line and the -Y edge of the support, and the fourth insertion part extends from the +X edge of the support to the direction of the fifth fold line, and is arranged between the second cutting line and the -Y edge of the support; the first insertion part is matched with the third insertion part, and the second insertion part is matched with the fourth insertion part.

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