Consumable box

Abstract

The embodiment of the utility model provides a consumable box, and relates to the technical field of printing. The consumable box comprises a box body, a chip, a connecting piece and an auxiliary piece, and an ink outlet is formed in the bottom wall of the box body; the chip is arranged on the box body; the first part of the connecting piece is electrically connected with the chip, and the second part of the connecting piece is used for being electrically connected with the second end of one of the plurality of contact pins; one part of the auxiliary piece is connected with the box body or the connecting piece, the other part of the auxiliary piece is used for extending to the contact pin assembly and applying abutting force to at least part of the contact pin assembly, and the auxiliary piece is configured to be at least partially overlapped with the contact pin assembly in the length direction of the consumable box. According to the consumable box provided by the embodiment of the utility model, the second part of the connecting piece can be prevented from being separated from the second end of the contact pin, the communication between a chip and an image forming device can be normal, the sliding friction between the connecting piece and the second end of the contact pin can be avoided, and the electric contact between the connecting piece and the contact pin is stable; the communication quality of the chip and the image forming device is improved.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The utility model relates to printing technical field especially, relate to a consumable box. BACKGROUND

[0002] Printer and other image forming devices as common office equipment, provide the convenience for modernization office. Image forming device installs the consumable box that can replace, and consumable box fills with ink. In order to be able to record the ink reserve of consumable box, and the characteristic of consumable box, set up the chip in consumable box, and the chip is used to with the stylus of image forming device communication connection.

[0003] In the related art, the image forming device includes a plurality of styluses, each stylus includes a first end and a second end, and in the height direction of the consumable box, the second end is higher than the first end. The consumable box includes a chip and a connecting piece, a portion of the connecting piece is electrically connected with the chip, and another portion of the connecting piece is electrically connected with the second end of one stylus of the plurality of styluses.

[0004] However, when the consumable box is affected by external factors such as vibration or shaking during use, the connecting piece and the stylus can be disconnected, causing the chip to be disconnected with the image forming device.

[0005] In addition, when the consumable box is affected by external factors such as vibration or shaking during use, the connecting piece and the second end of the stylus can also produce sliding friction, causing the connecting piece and the stylus to be unstable in electrical contact, affecting the communication quality of the chip and the image forming device. SUMMARY

[0006] The utility model embodiment provides a consumable box to solve the problem that the connecting piece and the stylus can be disconnected when the consumable box is affected by external factors such as vibration or shaking during use, causing the chip to be disconnected with the image forming device. It also solves the problem that the connecting piece and the second end of the stylus can also produce sliding friction when the consumable box is affected by external factors such as vibration or shaking during use, causing the connecting piece and the stylus to be unstable in electrical contact, affecting the communication quality of the chip and the image forming device.

[0007] The utility model embodiment provides a consumable box, which is detachably installed in an image forming device, the image forming device includes a plurality of mounting positions, each mounting position includes at least a stylus assembly, the stylus assembly includes at least a stylus holder and a plurality of styluses, the stylus holder and the mounting position have a spacing portion, the stylus holder is provided with a plurality of stylus grooves, each stylus is installed in a stylus groove, each stylus includes a first end and a second end, in the height direction of the consumable box, the second end is higher than the first end, and the consumable box includes:

[0008] Box body

[0009] The chip is mounted on the housing;

[0010] A connector having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being electrically connected to the chip, and the second portion being for electrically connecting to a second end of one of the plurality of contact pins;

[0011] An auxiliary component, a portion of which is connected to the housing or the connector, and another portion of which extends to the stylus assembly and applies abutment to at least a portion of the stylus assembly, the auxiliary component being configured to have no electrical signal interaction with the image forming apparatus and to at least partially overlap the stylus assembly along the length of the consumable housing.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the auxiliary component is provided with a connecting layer for increasing the contact force between the auxiliary component and the stylus assembly.

[0013] In one possible implementation, the second portion is used to contact the second end of one of the plurality of styluses to form an auxiliary contact portion;

[0014] At least a portion of the auxiliary component is configured to block the auxiliary contact portion along the length of the consumable box; or,

[0015] At least a portion of the auxiliary component is configured to block the auxiliary contact portion along the length and height directions of the consumable box.

[0016] In one possible implementation, a portion of the auxiliary member extends to the spacer and abuts against the side of the stylus holder facing away from the chip.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the auxiliary component includes a support portion and a first extension portion, one end of the support portion being connected to the housing body and the other end of the support portion being connected to the first extension portion, the first extension portion being used to extend into the spacer portion.

[0018] In one possible implementation, in the height direction of the consumable box, the support portion is further away from the ink outlet than the connector.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the image forming apparatus includes at least a main control circuit board, and each of the styluses is electrically connected to the main control circuit board;

[0020] Along the length of the consumable box, the projection of the first extension portion does not coincide with the projection of the main control circuit board.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the box body has a rear wall in the longitudinal direction of the consumable box;

[0022] The support portion is connected to the rear wall, and a receiving portion is provided between the first extension portion and the rear wall, the receiving portion being used to receive part of the stylus holder.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the connection layer covers at least a portion of the chip, at least a portion of the housing, and at least a portion of the surface of the auxiliary component facing the stylus holder.

[0024] In one possible implementation, the chip includes at least one first terminal and at least one second terminal, the first terminal being electrically connected to a first portion of the connector;

[0025] The connection layer is provided with at least one third terminal, and each third terminal is electrically connected to a second terminal; or, the connection layer is provided with at least one through hole, and the second terminal is exposed to the outside through the corresponding through hole.

[0026] In one possible implementation, a portion of the auxiliary member extends into the stylus groove and abuts against the stylus.

[0027] In one possible implementation, the auxiliary component includes a bent portion and a second extension portion, the bent portion being connected between the second portion and the second extension portion, the second extension portion being for extending into the stylus groove.

[0028] In one possible implementation, along the length of the consumable box, the bend extends beyond the second end of the stylus, and along the height of the consumable box, the bend is further away from the ink outlet than the auxiliary contact portion.

[0029] In one possible implementation, at least a portion of the auxiliary component is covered by the connection layer and is configured to extend into the pin groove and abut against the side of the pin facing away from the chip.

[0030] This utility model provides a consumable box, in which a portion of an auxiliary component connects to the box body or connector, and another portion of the auxiliary component extends to the contact pin assembly, applying a resisting force to at least a portion of the contact pin assembly. The auxiliary component overlaps at least partially with the contact pin assembly along the length of the consumable box. This ensures that the consumable box is stably fixed in the mounting portion of the image forming apparatus when subjected to external environmental factors such as vibration or shaking during use. This prevents the second portion of the connector from disengaging from the second end of the contact pin, thereby ensuring normal communication between the chip and the image forming apparatus. Furthermore, the auxiliary component can also constrain the position of the consumable box along its length, preventing sliding friction between the connector and the second end of the contact pin, thus ensuring stable electrical contact between the connector and the contact pin and improving the communication quality between the chip and the image forming apparatus. Attached Figure Description

[0031] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0032] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a consumable box installed in the mounting part of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the structure of the mounting section of the image forming apparatus Figure 1 ;

[0034] Figure 3a for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the structure of the mounting section of the image forming apparatus Figure 2 ;

[0035] Figure 3b for Figure 3a Enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0036] Figure 4 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of the stylus of the image forming apparatus in the image;

[0037] Figure 5 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the consumable box installed in the mounting section of the image forming apparatus;

[0038] Figure 6 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing the connection between the consumable box and the stylus assembly;

[0039] Figure 7 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing the connection between the consumable box and the contact pin;

[0040] Figure 8 for Figure 7 A schematic diagram showing the connection between the chip and the first connection layer;

[0041] Figure 9 for Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the consumable box after removing the chip;

[0042] Figure 10 for Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the connecting parts in the diagram;

[0043] Figure 11 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the consumable box installed in the mounting part of the image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 2 of this utility model;

[0044] Figure 12 for Figure 11 A schematic diagram showing the connection between the consumable box and the stylus assembly;

[0045] Figure 13 for Figure 11 A schematic diagram showing the connection between the consumable box and the contact pin;

[0046] Figure 14 for Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the consumable box after removing the chip;

[0047] Figure 15 for Figure 14 A schematic diagram showing the connection of the connectors and auxiliary components.

[0048] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0049] 100-Mounting section; 10-Mounting position; 11-Main control circuit board; 12-Pin holder; 121-Pin slot; 131-First pin; 132-Second pin; 13a-First end; 13b-Second end; 13c-Third end; 14-Interval section; 200-Consumable box; 20-Box body; 201-Bottom wall; 202-Top wall; 203-Front wall; 204-Rear wall; 205-Ink outlet; 30-Chip; 31-Substrate; 311-Inner surface ; 312-Outer surface; 32-Storage element; 331-First terminal; 332-Second terminal; 40-Connector; 401-First part; 402-Second part; 403-Auxiliary contact part; 41-Base end part; 42-Connecting part; 43-Arm part; 44-Bend part; 50-Auxiliary part; 501-Supporting part; 502-First extension part; 503-Accommodating part; 504-Bending part; 505-Second extension part; 51-First connecting layer. Detailed Implementation

[0050] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this utility model clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this utility model, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0051] It should be noted that the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. 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, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0052] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "fixation," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between the components; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] As described in the background section, when the consumable cartridge is subjected to external environmental factors such as vibration or shaking during use, the connector may lose contact with the contact pin, causing the chip to disconnect from the image forming apparatus. The inventors have discovered that this problem occurs because the consumable cartridge lacks constraint within the mounting section of the image forming apparatus. Therefore, when the consumable cartridge is subjected to external environmental factors such as vibration or shaking during use, the connector may lose contact with the contact pin, causing the chip to disconnect from the image forming apparatus.

[0056] When the consumable cartridge is subjected to external environmental factors such as vibration or shaking during use, sliding friction can occur between the connector and the second end of the contact pin. This results in unstable electrical contact between the connector and the contact pin, affecting the communication quality between the chip and the image forming apparatus. The inventors discovered that this problem arises because the consumable cartridge lacks constraint within the mounting section of the image forming apparatus. When subjected to external environmental factors such as vibration or shaking during use, the connector and the second end of the contact pin experience sliding friction, leading to unstable electrical contact and affecting the communication quality between the chip and the image forming apparatus.

[0057] To address the aforementioned problems, this utility model provides a consumable box with an auxiliary component. A portion of the auxiliary component is connected to the box body or a connector. The auxiliary component can apply a resisting force to at least a portion of the stylus assembly. This ensures that the consumable box is stably fixed within the mounting portion of the image forming apparatus when subjected to external environmental factors such as vibration or shaking during use. This prevents the second part of the connector from disengaging from the second end of the stylus, thereby ensuring normal communication between the chip and the image forming apparatus. Furthermore, the auxiliary component can constrain the position of the consumable box along its length, preventing sliding friction between the connector and the second end of the stylus. This stabilizes the electrical contact between the connector and the stylus, improving the communication quality between the chip and the image forming apparatus.

[0058] The consumable box provided in the embodiments of this utility model will be described in detail below with reference to specific examples.

[0059] Example 1

[0060] See Figure 1 As shown, this embodiment of the present invention provides a consumable box 200, which is detachably installed in the mounting part 100 of the image forming apparatus.

[0061] See Figure 2 and Figure 3a As shown, the image forming apparatus includes at least a main control circuit board 11 and multiple mounting positions 10. The main control circuit board 11 has multiple sets of device-side terminal groups, each set of device-side terminal groups corresponding to one mounting position 10. Each mounting position 10 includes at least a stylus assembly.

[0062] See Figure 3a and Figure 3b As shown, the stylus assembly includes at least a stylus holder 12 and a plurality of styluses. The stylus holder 12 has a gap 14 between it and the mounting position 10. The stylus holder 12 is provided with a plurality of stylus slots 121. Each stylus is installed in a stylus slot 121 and each stylus is electrically connected to a corresponding device-side terminal on the main control circuit board 11.

[0063] See Figure 4 As shown, each contact pin includes a first end 13a, a second end 13b, and a third end 13c. In the height direction of the consumable box 200, the second end 13b is higher than the first end 13a. The third end 13c of the contact pin is located on the side of the contact pin closest to the main control circuit board 11.

[0064] In some examples, the stylus assembly includes at least one first stylus 131 and a plurality of second stylus 132 (see [reference]). Figure 2 (As shown).

[0065] Establish a Cartesian coordinate system for the consumable box 200. The X-axis represents the length of the consumable box 200, the Y-axis represents the width of the consumable box 200, and the Z-axis represents the height of the consumable box 200.

[0066] See Figures 5 to 7 As shown, the consumable cartridge 200 includes a cartridge body 20. The cartridge body 20 has a bottom wall 201 and a top wall 202 along its height direction, with the bottom wall 201 and top wall 202 positioned opposite each other. Specifically, the cartridge body 20 has a bottom wall 201 on one side in the -Z-axis direction and a top wall 202 on one side in the +Z-axis direction. An ink outlet 205 is provided on the bottom wall 201.

[0067] The box body 20 has a front wall 203 and a rear wall 204 along its length, with the front wall 203 and the rear wall 204 arranged opposite to each other. Specifically, the box body 20 has a rear wall 204 on one side in the -X-axis direction and a front wall 203 on one side in the +X-axis direction.

[0068] The consumable cartridge 200 also includes a chip 30. The chip 30 is mounted on the cartridge body 20. In some examples, the chip 30 is mounted on the rear wall 204 of the cartridge body 20.

[0069] See Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the chip 30 includes a substrate 31. The substrate 31 has an inner surface 311 facing the housing 20 and an outer surface 312 facing away from the housing 20.

[0070] Chip 30 also includes storage element 32. Storage element 32 stores information about chip 30, such as manufacturer information, ink volume information, consumable cartridge type information, ink color, etc.

[0071] The chip 30 also includes at least one first terminal 331 and at least one second terminal 332. The first terminal 331 is disposed on the inner surface 311 of the substrate 31, and the second terminal 332 is disposed on the outer surface 312 of the substrate 31. At least one of the first terminal 331 and the second terminal 332 is electrically connected to the storage element 32.

[0072] The number of first terminals 331 is equal to the number of first contact pins 131.

[0073] The number of second terminals 332 is equal to the number of second contact pins 132. When the consumable cartridge 200 is installed in the mounting section 100 of the image forming apparatus, the second terminals 332 are electrically connected to the second contact pins 132.

[0074] In some examples, a first terminal 331 is disposed on the inner surface 311 of the substrate 31, and a second terminal 332 is disposed on the outer surface 312 of the substrate 31. When the chip 30 includes a ground terminal, a power terminal, a reset terminal, a clock terminal, and a data terminal, the first terminal 331 can be one of the ground terminal, power terminal, reset terminal, clock terminal, and data terminal. The remaining terminal of the chip 30 is the second terminal 332. In other examples, the first terminal 331 and the second terminal 332 can be disposed on the outer surface 312 of the substrate 31.

[0075] It should be noted that the grounding terminal is used to receive the ground potential; the power supply terminal is used to receive a power supply potential different from the ground potential (e.g., 3.6V or 3.3V), through which power is supplied to the operation of the storage element 32; the reset terminal is used to reset the internal data of the storage element 32; the clock terminal is used to receive the clock signal; the data terminal is used to send or receive data signals, and is also used to detect whether a short circuit occurs between the data terminal and at least one of the clock terminal, reset terminal, and power supply terminal, and / or the data terminal can also be used to detect whether the consumable cartridge is correctly loaded into the image forming apparatus.

[0076] In some instances, the first terminal 331 can be one of a ground terminal, a power terminal, a reset terminal, a clock terminal, a data terminal, a high-voltage terminal, or a detection terminal, and the remaining terminals of the chip 30 are the second terminal 332. It should be noted that the high-voltage terminal is used to detect whether the consumable cartridge is correctly inserted into the image forming apparatus. The detection terminal is used to detect whether a short circuit occurs between the high-voltage terminal of the chip and at least one of the remaining terminals, i.e., the low-voltage terminals.

[0077] See Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the consumable box 200 also includes a connector 40. The connector 40 is made of a conductive material.

[0078] The connector 40 has a first part 401 and a second part 402. The first part 401 is electrically connected to the chip 30, and the second part 402 is used to electrically connect to the second end 13b of one of the plurality of contact pins.

[0079] The connector 40 and the chip 30 can be connected by means of welding, bonding or snap-fitting.

[0080] For example, in the height direction of the consumable box 200, the connector 40 is at least partially higher than the second end 13b of the first contact pin 131.

[0081] The number of connectors 40 is equal to the number of first terminals 331, that is, each connector 40 corresponds to one first terminal 331. In this embodiment, there is one connector 40 and one first terminal 331. The first part 401 of the connector 40 is electrically connected to the first terminal 331. The second part 402 of the connector 40 is electrically connected to the second end 13b of the first contact pin 131 corresponding to the first terminal 331.

[0082] For example, the connector 40 is made of a flexible conductive material and includes a base end 41, a connecting portion 42, an arm portion 43, and a meandering portion 44. The connecting portion 42 connects the base end 41 and the arm portion 43, and at least a portion of the base end 41 is arranged in a helical structure relative to the connecting portion 42; the connecting portion 42 is arranged at an angle relative to the arm portion 43; the meandering portion 44 connects to the arm portion 43, and the meandering portion 44 is arranged in a meandering structure relative to the arm portion 43, which can be understood as consisting of multiple bent segments. One end of the meandering portion 44 is wound around the housing 20 of the consumable box 200. The base end 41 is wound around the housing 20 of the consumable box 200. In the length direction of the consumable box 200, at least a portion of the arm portion 43 protrudes from the housing 20.

[0083] The first portion 401 of the connector 40 is located on the base end 41, and the second portion 402 is located on the arm 43. The second portion 402 of the connector 40 contacts the second end 13b of the first contact pin 131 corresponding to the first terminal 331 to form an auxiliary contact portion 403 (see [link]). Figure 7 (As shown).

[0084] The second terminal 332 of the chip 30 can be electrically connected to the first terminal 13a of the corresponding second contact pin 132.

[0085] See Figures 5 to 8 As shown, the consumable cartridge 200 also includes an auxiliary component 50. A portion of the auxiliary component 50 is connected to the cartridge body 20. Another portion of the auxiliary component 50 extends to the side of the stylus assembly facing the main control circuit board 11 and applies abutment force to at least a portion of the stylus assembly. The auxiliary component 50 is configured to have no electrical signal interaction with the image forming apparatus and at least partially overlaps with the stylus assembly along the length of the consumable cartridge 200. With this configuration, when the consumable cartridge 200 is installed in the mounting section 100 of the image forming apparatus, the auxiliary contact portion 403 of the connector 40 of the consumable cartridge 200 contacts the second end 13b of the first stylus 131, and the auxiliary member 50 of the consumable cartridge 200 applies abutment force to at least a portion of the stylus assembly, which can constrain the consumable cartridge 200. This ensures that the consumable cartridge 200 is stably fixed in the mounting section 100 of the image forming apparatus when affected by external environmental factors such as vibration or shaking during use, and can prevent the second portion 402 of the connector 40 from losing contact with the second end 13b of the first stylus 131, thereby enabling the chip 30 to communicate normally with the image forming apparatus. In addition, the auxiliary component 50 can also constrain the position of the consumable box 200 along the length direction of the consumable box 200, thereby preventing the connector 40 from sliding and rubbing against the second end 13b of the first contact pin 131, thus making the electrical contact between the connector 40 and the contact pin stable and improving the communication quality between the chip 30 and the image forming apparatus.

[0086] In one possible implementation, at least a portion of the auxiliary member 50 is configured to block the auxiliary contact portion 403 along the length and height directions of the consumable cartridge 200. With this configuration, when the consumable cartridge 200 is installed in the mounting portion 100 of the image forming apparatus, the auxiliary member 50 can protect the second portion 402 of the connector 40 along the length and height directions of the consumable cartridge 200, preventing dust and other contaminants from adhering to the body of the second portion 402, which could lead to poor contact between the second portion 402 and the contact pin. This ensures stable contact between the connector 40 and the contact pin, improving the communication quality between the chip 30 and the image forming apparatus.

[0087] In one possible implementation, see Figures 5 to 8 As shown, a portion of the auxiliary member 50 extends to the spacer 14 and abuts against the side of the stylus holder 12 facing away from the chip 30. With this configuration, when the consumable cartridge 200 is installed in the mounting section 100 of the image forming apparatus, a portion of the auxiliary member 50 is located in the spacer 14. The auxiliary member 50 applies abutting force to the side of the stylus holder 12 facing away from the chip 30, constraining the consumable cartridge 200 in the X-axis direction. This ensures that the consumable cartridge 200 remains stable in the X-axis direction when affected by external environmental factors such as vibration or shaking during use. The abutting force between the auxiliary member 50 and the side of the stylus holder 12 facing away from the chip 30 also constrains the consumable cartridge 200 in the +Z and -Z axis directions, ensuring that the consumable cartridge 200 remains stable in the +Z and -Z axis directions when affected by external environmental factors such as vibration or shaking during use.

[0088] It should be noted that when the consumable cartridge 200 is installed in the mounting part 100 of the image forming apparatus, the second terminal 332 of the chip 30 of the consumable cartridge 200 can abut against the first end 13a of the corresponding second contact pin 132, which can constrain the consumable cartridge 200 in the X-axis direction. This ensures that the consumable cartridge 200 remains stable in the X-axis direction when it is affected by external environmental factors such as vibration or shaking during use.

[0089] In one possible implementation, the auxiliary member 50 includes a support portion 501 and a first extension portion 502 (see [link]). Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, one end of the support portion 501 is connected to the housing 20, and the other end of the support portion 501 is connected to the first extension portion 502, which extends into the spacer portion 14. With this configuration, when the consumable cartridge 200 is installed in the mounting portion 100 of the image forming apparatus, the first extension portion 502 of the auxiliary member 50 is located in the spacer portion 14, and the first extension portion 502 can apply a resisting force to the side of the stylus holder 12 facing away from the chip 30, thereby constraining the consumable cartridge 200 in the X-axis and Z-axis directions.

[0090] The support portion 501 can be connected to the rear wall 204 of the housing 20. The support portion 501 can also intersect and connect with the first extension portion 502.

[0091] In some examples, the support portion 501 is further away from the ink outlet 205 than the connector 40 in the height direction of the consumable cartridge 200. With this configuration, the support portion 501 of the auxiliary member 50 can be higher than the connector 40 in the height direction of the consumable cartridge 200, thereby allowing the support portion 501 to block the second part 402 of the connector 40 and the auxiliary contact portion 403 in the height direction of the consumable cartridge 200.

[0092] The first extension 502 may have a receiving portion 503 between it and the rear wall 204 (see...). Figure 9 As shown, the receiving portion 503 is used to receive a portion of the stylus holder 12. With this configuration, when the consumable cartridge 200 is installed in the mounting portion 100 of the image forming apparatus, the stylus holder 12 is partially located in the receiving portion 503, allowing the first extension portion 502 of the auxiliary member 50 to be located in the spacer portion 14, and the first extension portion 502 to apply a contacting force to the side of the stylus holder 12 facing away from the chip 30.

[0093] In some examples, the width of the receiving portion 503 in the width direction of the consumable box 200 is less than or equal to the width of the stylus holder 12.

[0094] In some examples, the first extension 502 may also be configured to be disposed on both side walls in the length direction of the consumable box 200, that is, the first extension 502 may be disposed on the front wall 203 and the rear wall 204 respectively, for abutting against the side wall of the stylus holder 12 and the mounting position 10 opposite to the stylus holder 12 in the X-axis direction respectively.

[0095] In some instances, the auxiliary component 50 can also be configured in other ways to adapt to different consumable cartridges and image forming apparatuses. The auxiliary component 50 can be connected to the chip 30 by means of welding, bonding, or snap-fitting.

[0096] In one possible implementation, the projection of the first extension portion 502 along the length of the consumable box 200 does not coincide with the projection of the main control circuit board 11. With this configuration, when the consumable box 200 is installed in the mounting section 100 of the image forming apparatus, the first extension portion 502 of the auxiliary member 50 may not interfere with the main control circuit board 11.

[0097] In one possible implementation, the auxiliary component 50 is provided with a first connecting layer 51 (see...). Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, the first connecting layer 51 increases the contact force between the auxiliary component 50 and the stylus assembly. This contact force can be friction. With this configuration, when the consumable cartridge 200 is installed in the mounting section 100 of the image forming apparatus, the first connecting layer 51 on the auxiliary component 50 abuts against the stylus holder 12, increasing the friction between them. This ensures stable contact and prevents the auxiliary component 50 from slipping off the stylus holder 12. Furthermore, the first connecting layer 51 also protects the contact area between the auxiliary component 50 and the stylus holder 12, preventing wear and extending their service life.

[0098] The first connection layer 51 may cover at least a portion of the chip 30, at least a portion of the housing 20, and the surface of the auxiliary component 50 facing the stylus holder 12. In some examples, the first connection layer 51 may cover at least a portion of the surface of the chip 30, at least a portion of the housing 20, and the surface of the auxiliary component 50 facing the receiving portion 503.

[0099] At least a portion of the first connection layer 51 can abut against the side of the stylus holder 12 facing away from the chip 30.

[0100] Along the length of the consumable box 200, the auxiliary contact portion 403 is shielded by at least a portion of the first connecting layer 51.

[0101] In some examples, the first connection layer 51 can be a flexible printed circuit board (FPC).

[0102] In some examples, at least one third terminal (not shown) is provided on the first connection layer 51, and each third terminal is electrically connected to a second terminal 332 of the chip 30. Exemplarily, the number and arrangement of the third terminals correspond to the second terminals 332 on the chip 30.

[0103] In some embodiments, the second terminal 332 and the third terminal can be connected by soldering, and the second contact pin 132 is electrically connected to the second terminal 332 through the third terminal. The remaining portion of the first connection layer 51 can be connected to the chip 30 by means of bonding, snap-fitting, or abutting.

[0104] In some examples, there is no third terminal on the first connection layer 51. At least one through-hole (not shown in the figure) is provided on the first connection layer 51, each through-hole corresponding to a second terminal 332, and the second terminal 332 is exposed to the outside through the corresponding through-hole. Exemplarily, the number and arrangement of the through-holes correspond to the second terminals 332 on the chip 30, and the second contact 132 is electrically connected to the second terminal 332 through the through-hole.

[0105] Example 2

[0106] See Figures 11 to 15 As shown, the consumable cartridge 200 in Embodiment 2 differs from that in Embodiment 1 in that a portion of the auxiliary member 50 is connected to the connector 40. Another portion of the auxiliary member 50 extends to the stylus assembly and applies abutment force to at least a portion of the stylus assembly. The auxiliary member 50 is configured to have no electrical signal interaction with the image forming apparatus and overlaps at least a portion of the stylus assembly along the length of the consumable cartridge 200. With this configuration, when the consumable cartridge 200 is installed in the mounting portion 100 of the image forming apparatus, the auxiliary member 50 of the consumable cartridge 200 applies abutment force to at least a portion of the stylus assembly, constraining the consumable cartridge 200. This ensures that the consumable cartridge 200 is stably fixed in the mounting portion 100 of the image forming apparatus when subjected to external environmental factors such as vibration or shaking during use. This prevents the second portion 402 of the connector 40 from disengaging from the second end 13b of the first stylus 131, thereby ensuring normal communication between the chip 30 and the image forming apparatus. In addition, the auxiliary component 50 can also constrain the position of the consumable box 200 along the length direction of the consumable box 200, thereby preventing the connector 40 from sliding and rubbing against the second end 13b of the stylus, thus making the electrical contact between the connector 40 and the stylus stable and improving the communication quality between the chip 30 and the image forming apparatus.

[0107] It should be noted that connector 40 does not have a bend.

[0108] At least a portion of the auxiliary component 50 is configured to shield the second portion 402 of the connector 40 and the auxiliary contact portion 403 along the length of the consumable cartridge 200. With this configuration, when the consumable cartridge 200 is installed in the mounting portion 100 of the image forming apparatus, the auxiliary component 50 can protect the second portion 402 of the connector 40 along the length of the consumable cartridge 200, preventing dust and other contaminants from adhering to the body of the second portion 402, which could lead to poor contact between the second portion 402 and the contact pin. This ensures stable contact between the connector 40 and the contact pin, improving the communication quality between the chip 30 and the image forming apparatus.

[0109] In one possible implementation, a portion of the auxiliary member 50 extends into the stylus groove 121 and abuts against the side of the stylus facing away from the chip 30. With this configuration, when the consumable cartridge 200 is mounted in the mounting portion 100 of the image forming apparatus, a portion of the auxiliary member 50 is located in the stylus groove 121, and the auxiliary member 50 applies an abutting force to the side of the stylus facing away from the chip 30. This constrains the consumable cartridge 200 in the X-axis direction, ensuring its stability in the X-axis direction when affected by external environmental factors such as vibration or shaking during use. The abutting force between the auxiliary member 50 and the side of the stylus facing away from the chip 30, i.e., friction, constrains the consumable cartridge 200 in the +Z and -Z axis directions, ensuring its stability in these directions when affected by external environmental factors such as vibration or shaking during use.

[0110] In one possible implementation, the auxiliary member 50 includes a bent portion 504 and a second extension portion 505. The bent portion 504 is connected between the second portion 402 of the connector 40 and the second extension portion 505, and the second extension portion 505 extends into the stylus groove 121. With this configuration, when the consumable cartridge 200 is mounted in the mounting portion 100 of the image forming apparatus, the second extension portion 505 of the auxiliary member 50 is located in the stylus groove 121, and the second extension portion 505 can apply a resisting force to the side of the stylus facing away from the chip 30, thereby constraining the consumable cartridge 200.

[0111] The bent portion 504 is connected to the second part 402 of the connector 40. The bent portion 504 may be curved.

[0112] In some examples, along the length of the consumable box 200, the bend 504 extends beyond the second end 13b of the stylus.

[0113] Along the height of the consumable box 200, the bent portion 504 is further away from the ink outlet 205 than the auxiliary contact portion 403. This arrangement ensures that the bent portion 504 does not come into contact with the contact pin.

[0114] The second extension 505 intersects and connects with the bent portion 504.

[0115] For example, when the consumable cartridge 200 is installed in the mounting section 100 of the image forming apparatus, the auxiliary contact portion 403 of the connector 40 of the consumable cartridge 200 contacts the second end 13b of the first stylus 131, the second extension portion 505 of the auxiliary member 50 enters the stylus groove 121 corresponding to the first stylus 131 and abuts against the third end 13c of the first stylus 131, and there is no signal interaction between the second extension portion 505 and the first stylus 131.

[0116] In one possible implementation, at least a portion of the auxiliary member 50 is covered by a second connecting layer (not shown) and is configured to extend into the stylus groove 121 and abut against the side of the stylus facing away from the chip 30. The second connecting layer is used to increase the abutment force between the auxiliary member 50 and the stylus.

[0117] In some examples, the second connecting layer can be disposed on the second extension portion 505, that is, the second extension portion 505 is covered by the second connecting layer. With this configuration, when the consumable cartridge 200 is installed in the mounting portion 100 of the image forming apparatus, the second connecting layer on the second extension portion 505 of the auxiliary member 50 abuts against the first stylus 131, increasing the contact force between the auxiliary member 50 and the stylus. This ensures stable contact between the auxiliary member 50 and the first stylus 131 and prevents the auxiliary member 50 from slipping off the first stylus 131. Furthermore, the second connecting layer also protects the contact area between the auxiliary member 50 and the first stylus 131, preventing wear and tear and extending the service life of both.

[0118] The second connecting layer can be made of insulating materials such as rubber, silicone, or non-slip plastic.

[0119] In some instances, the auxiliary component 50 can also be configured in other ways to adapt to different consumable cartridges and image forming apparatuses. The auxiliary component 50 can be connected to the connector 40 by means of welding, bonding, or snap-fitting.

[0120] The structure and effects of the remaining parts are the same as those of Example 1.

[0121] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this utility model, and are not intended to limit it. Although the utility model has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model.

Claims

1. A consumable cartridge (200) detachably mounted in an image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus comprising a plurality of mounting positions (10), each mounting position (10) comprising at least a stylus assembly, the stylus assembly comprising at least a stylus holder (12) and a plurality of styluses, the stylus holder (12) having a spacer (14) between it and the mounting position (10), the stylus holder (12) having a plurality of stylus slots (121), each stylus being mounted in one of the stylus slots (121), each stylus comprising a first end (13a) and a second end (13b), wherein, in the height direction of the consumable cartridge (200), the second end (13b) is higher than the first end (13a), characterized in that, The consumable box (200) includes: Box body (20); Chip (30), said chip (30) is mounted on said housing (20); A connector (40) having a first portion (401) and a second portion (402), the first portion (401) being electrically connected to the chip (30) and the second portion (402) being electrically connected to the second end (13b) of one of the plurality of contact pins; An auxiliary component (50), a portion of which is connected to the housing (20) or the connector (40), and another portion of which extends to the stylus assembly and applies abutment to at least a portion of the stylus assembly, the auxiliary component (50) being configured to have no electrical signal interaction with the image forming apparatus and to at least partially overlap the stylus assembly along the length of the consumable housing (200).

2. The consumable box (200) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The auxiliary component (50) is provided with a connecting layer, which is used to increase the contact force between the auxiliary component (50) and the stylus assembly.

3. The consumable box (200) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second part (402) is used to contact the second end (13b) of one of the plurality of styluses to form an auxiliary contact part (403); At least a portion of the auxiliary component (50) is configured to block the auxiliary contact portion (403) along the length of the consumable box (200); or, At least a portion of the auxiliary component (50) is configured to block the auxiliary contact portion (403) along the length and height directions of the consumable box (200).

4. The consumable box (200) according to claim 3, characterized in that, A portion of the auxiliary member (50) extends to the spacer (14) and abuts against the side of the stylus holder (12) opposite to the chip (30).

5. The consumable box (200) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The auxiliary component (50) includes a support portion (501) and a first extension portion (502). One end of the support portion (501) is connected to the housing (20), and the other end of the support portion (501) is connected to the first extension portion (502). The first extension portion (502) is used to extend into the spacer portion (14).

6. The consumable box (200) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The image forming apparatus includes at least a main control circuit board (11), and each of the styluses is electrically connected to the main control circuit board (11); Along the length of the consumable box (200), the projection of the first extension portion (502) does not coincide with the projection of the main control circuit board (11).

7. The consumable box (200) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The box body (20) has a rear wall (204) in the length direction of the consumable box (200); The support portion (501) is connected to the rear wall (204), and a receiving portion (503) is provided between the first extension portion (502) and the rear wall (204), the receiving portion (503) being used to receive at least a portion of the stylus holder (12).

8. The consumable box (200) according to any one of claims 2-7, characterized in that, The connection layer covers at least a portion of the chip (30), at least a portion of the housing (20), and the auxiliary component (50) on the side facing the stylus holder (12).

9. The consumable box (200) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The chip (30) includes at least one first terminal (331) and at least one second terminal (332), wherein the first terminal (331) is electrically connected to the first portion (401) of the connector (40); The connection layer is provided with at least one third terminal, each of the third terminals being electrically connected to a second terminal (332); or, the connection layer is provided with at least one through hole, and the second terminal (332) is exposed to the outside through the corresponding through hole.

10. The consumable box (200) according to claim 2, characterized in that, A portion of the auxiliary member (50) extends into the stylus groove (121) and abuts against the stylus.

11. The consumable box (200) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The auxiliary component (50) includes a bent portion (504) and a second extension portion (505), the bent portion (504) being connected between the second portion (402) and the second extension portion (505), the second extension portion (505) being extended into the stylus groove (121).

12. The consumable box (200) according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, At least a portion of the auxiliary component (50) is covered by the connection layer and is configured to extend into the stylus groove (121) and abut against the side of the stylus opposite to the chip (30).

Images