Consumable chip and consumable box

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of printing imaging, and particularly provides a consumable chip and a consumable box, and the consumable chip comprises an electronic module and a plurality of contact parts; the plurality of contact parts at least comprise a first contact part and a second contact part, and the first contact part and the second contact part are in contact with the same contact pin when the consumable box is mounted on the printing equipment; the first contact part and the second contact part are arranged along the direction in which the consumable box is inserted into the printing equipment; the first contact part and the second contact part are electrically connected with the electronic module, and the electric signals of the first contact part and the second contact part are the same, so that the connection reliability of the consumable chip and the printing equipment is improved, and the working stability of the printing equipment and the use experience of a user are improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of printing and imaging technology, and in particular to a consumable chip and a consumable box. Background Technology

[0002] During the printing process, the printing device requires imaging assistance information from the consumable cartridge to complete the imaging process. This imaging assistance information is recorded not only in the printing device itself but also on a consumable chip. The consumable chip can be installed on the consumable cartridge, which can be an ink cartridge filled with ink or a toner cartridge filled with toner. The ink cartridge and toner are the recording materials, and the consumable chip's function is to control the authentication and data matching between the consumable cartridge and the printing device, and to provide imaging assistance information during subsequent imaging. The consumable chip has an electronic module and terminals that electrically connect to the printing device's probes. The electronic module stores information such as toner dosage, manufacturer information, and serial number. The terminals are connected to the electronic module via vias using wires.

[0003] In related technologies, the contact reliability between the consumable cartridge containing the consumable chip and the stylus on the printing device is not good, which can easily lead to the consumable chip not being recognized by the printing device. Utility Model Content

[0004] In order to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, or at least partially solve the above-mentioned technical problems, this application provides a consumable chip and a consumable box.

[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides a consumable chip for mounting on a consumable cartridge, the consumable cartridge being detachably mounted on a printing device, the printing device having multiple contact pins corresponding to the mounting position of the consumable cartridge, and the consumable chip including an electronic module and multiple contact portions;

[0006] The plurality of contact portions include at least a first contact portion and a second contact portion, wherein the first contact portion and the second contact portion contact the same stylus when the consumable cartridge is installed on the printing device; the first contact portion and the second contact portion are arranged along the direction in which the consumable cartridge is inserted into the printing device.

[0007] Both the first contact portion and the second contact portion are electrically connected to the electronic module, and the electrical signals of the first contact portion and the second contact portion are the same.

[0008] The consumable chip provided in this application includes multiple contact portions, at least a first contact portion and a second contact portion. When the consumable cartridge is installed on the printing device, the first and second contact portions contact the same pin, and both the first and second contact portions are electrically connected to the electronic module of the consumable chip. The electrical signals of the first and second contact portions are the same. In other words, by having two contact portions with the same electrical signal simultaneously contact the same pin, the connection reliability between the consumable chip and the printing device is improved, thereby improving the working stability of the printing device and the user experience.

[0009] Moreover, even if one of the first contact portion and the second contact portion experiences unexpected poor contact with the stylus, the other of the first contact portion and the second contact portion will still cooperate with the stylus to provide an electrical signal connection, thereby ensuring the reliability of the connection between the consumable chip and the printing device.

[0010] Meanwhile, since the first and second contact portions are arranged along the direction in which the consumable cartridge is inserted into the printing device, this arrangement not only facilitates rapid and reliable contact between the first and second contact portions and the stylus, but also ensures that when there are liquid foreign objects such as ink droplets on the first or second contact portion or the corresponding stylus, the liquid foreign objects can fall along the direction of gravity or the extension direction of the stylus. This allows the liquid foreign objects to fall as far as possible onto the contact portion located downstream in the insertion direction between the first and second contact portions, forming an adsorption effect at that contact portion. This retains the liquid foreign objects at that contact portion, preventing them from flowing to other contact portions and causing a short circuit, thereby ensuring the reliability of the connection between the consumable chip and the printing device.

[0011] Optionally, the consumable chip includes a substrate, and both the first contact portion and the second contact portion are formed on the substrate.

[0012] Optionally, the substrate has a connecting portion, the connecting portion has internal resistance, and at least two contact portions are formed on the connecting portion;

[0013] Of all the contacts on the connecting portion, at least two contacts have different electrical signals, and one of the contacts is formed as the first contact. The projection of the second contact on the substrate does not coincide with the projection of the connecting portion on the substrate, so that the connecting portion and other contacts on the connecting portion with different electrical signals from the first contact are connected to the electronic module through at least one of the first contact and the second contact.

[0014] Optionally, the connecting portion is a carbon film disposed on the substrate.

[0015] Optionally, the substrate has a recess with an opening;

[0016] At least a portion of the stylus extends into the recess through the opening and engages with the recess to form the first contact portion and the second contact portion.

[0017] Optionally, at least one side wall of the recess is provided with a clearance portion to reduce the contact area between the stylus and the substrate;

[0018] At least one side wall of the recess is inclined in a direction away from the stylus to form a slope, and the slope is formed as the avoidance part.

[0019] Optionally, the consumable chip includes multiple contacts, and at least one of the contacts includes a first sub-contact and a second sub-contact, wherein the first sub-contact and the second sub-contact are respectively electrically connected to the electronic module;

[0020] The first contact portion is formed on the first sub-contact, and the second contact portion is formed on the second sub-contact.

[0021] Secondly, this application provides a consumable box, including a box body and a consumable chip as described above mounted on the box body.

[0022] Thirdly, this application provides a consumable box that is detachably mounted on a printing device. The printing device has multiple contact pins at the position where the consumable box is mounted. The consumable box includes a consumable chip, and the consumable chip includes an electronic module.

[0023] The consumable cartridge has multiple contact portions, each of which includes at least a first contact portion and a second contact portion. When the consumable cartridge is installed on the printing device, the first contact portion and the second contact portion contact the same stylus. The first contact portion and the second contact portion are arranged along the direction in which the consumable cartridge is inserted into the printing device.

[0024] Both the first contact portion and the second contact portion are electrically connected to the electronic module, and the electrical signals of the first contact portion and the second contact portion are the same.

[0025] The consumable cartridge provided in this application forms multiple contact portions on the cartridge, including at least a first contact portion and a second contact portion. When the consumable cartridge is installed on a printing device, the first and second contact portions contact the same pin, and both the first and second contact portions are electrically connected to the electronic module of the consumable chip. The first and second contact portions have the same electrical signal. In other words, by having two contact portions with the same electrical signal simultaneously contact the same pin, the connection reliability between the consumable cartridge and the printing device pin is improved, thereby improving the working stability of the printing device and the user experience.

[0026] Moreover, even if one of the first contact portion and the second contact portion experiences unexpected poor contact with the stylus, the other of the first contact portion and the second contact portion will still cooperate with the stylus to provide an electrical signal connection, thereby ensuring the reliability of the connection between the consumable box and the stylus of the printing device.

[0027] Meanwhile, since the first and second contact parts are arranged along the direction in which the consumable cartridge is inserted into the printing device, this arrangement not only facilitates rapid and reliable contact between the first and second contact parts and the stylus, but also ensures that when there are liquid foreign objects such as ink droplets on the first or second contact part or the corresponding stylus, the liquid foreign objects can fall along the direction of gravity or the extension direction of the stylus. This allows the liquid foreign objects to fall as far as possible onto the contact part located downstream in the insertion direction between the first and second contact parts, forming an adsorption effect at that contact part. This retains the liquid foreign objects at that contact part, preventing them from flowing to other contact parts and causing a short circuit, thus ensuring the reliability of the connection between the consumable cartridge and the printing device.

[0028] Optionally, the consumable box includes a box body, and the consumable chip is mounted on the box body; the consumable chip includes a substrate, the first contact portion is formed on the substrate, and the second contact portion is formed on the box body.

[0029] Optionally, a chip holder is provided on the box body, and the consumable chip is installed on the side of the chip holder away from the box body, so as to at least increase the distance between the first contact portion and the second contact portion along the thickness direction of the chip;

[0030] Alternatively, the box body may have a recessed portion, and the second contact portion may be located within the recessed portion.

[0031] Optionally, the substrate has a connecting portion, the connecting portion has internal resistance, and at least two contact portions are formed on the connecting portion;

[0032] Of all the contacts on the connecting portion, at least two of the contacts have different electrical signals, and one of the contacts is formed as the first contact, so that the connecting portion and other contacts on the connecting portion with different electrical signals from the first contact are connected to the electronic module through at least one of the first contact and the second contact.

[0033] It should be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and intended to provide further illustration of the claimed technology. Attached Figure Description

[0034] The above and other objects, features, and advantages of this application will become more apparent from the more detailed description of the embodiments of this application in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are used to provide a further understanding of the embodiments of this application and form part of the specification. They are used together with the embodiments of this application to explain this application and do not constitute a limitation thereof. In the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals generally represent the same components or steps.

[0035] Figure 1 A diagram illustrating the communication structure of printing equipment and existing consumable chips;

[0036] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the stylus holder of a printing device;

[0037] Figure 3 An enlarged view of the structure of the stylus on the stylus holder of a printing device;

[0038] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a consumable chip in the prior art;

[0039] Figure 5 This is a structural diagram of a consumable box in the prior art;

[0040] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a consumable chip according to an embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the stylus contact points of a stylus holder according to an embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a consumable chip according to another embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the stylus contact points of a stylus holder according to another embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 10 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the consumable chip in an embodiment of this application when it mates with a contact pin.

[0045] Figure 11 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the consumable chip in another embodiment of this application when the recessed portion mates with the contact pin;

[0046] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a consumable chip according to another embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a consumable box according to an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of a consumable box according to another embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of a consumable box according to another embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of a consumable box according to another embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the contact circuit connection according to an embodiment of this application;

[0052] Figure 18 This is yet another schematic diagram of the contact circuit connection according to an embodiment of this application;

[0053] Figure 19 This is yet another schematic diagram of the contact circuit connection according to an embodiment of this application.

[0054] Among them, 1. Consumable chip; 10. Interface module; 101. SDA contact; 102. RST contact; 103. SCL contact; 104. VCC contact; 105. GND contact; 2. Printing device; 20. Communication port; 201. SDA pin; 202. RST pin; 203. SCL pin; 204. VCC pin; 2041. VCC pin carbon film contact point; 2042. VCC pin auxiliary contact point; 205. GND pin; 210. Bending part; 220. Extension part; 230. Angled protrusion part; 240. Needle body; 21. Needle holder; 3. Consumable chip; 31. First contact portion; 32. Second contact portion; 33. Third contact portion; 301. SDA contact; 302. SCL contact; 303. VCC contact; 3031. First sub-contact; 3032. Second sub-contact; 304. GND contact; 305. RST contact; 34. Substrate; 35. Connecting portion; 36. Recess; 37. Clearance portion; 38. Clearance portion; 4. Consumable box; 41. Box body; 42. Chip connector; 43. Recess; 44. Chip holder. Detailed Implementation

[0055] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application more apparent, exemplary embodiments according to this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are merely some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments of this application. It should be understood that this application is not limited to the exemplary embodiments described herein.

[0056] The term "comprising" and its variations as used herein are open-ended, meaning "including but not limited to". The term "based on" means "at least partially based on". The term "one embodiment" means "at least one embodiment"; the term "another embodiment" means "at least one additional embodiment"; the term "some embodiments" means "at least some embodiments". Definitions of other terms will be given in the following description. It should be noted that the concepts of "first", "second", etc., mentioned in the embodiments of this application are only used to distinguish different devices, modules, or units, and are not used to limit the order of functions performed by these devices, modules, or units or their interdependencies.

[0057] It should be noted that the terms "one" and "more" mentioned in the embodiments of this application are illustrative rather than restrictive. Those skilled in the art should understand that, unless otherwise expressly indicated in the context, they should be understood as "one or more".

[0058] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 5 As shown, in the prior art, the printing device 2 is equipped with a communication port 20, and the consumable chip 1 is equipped with an interface module 10. A communication link is established between the communication port 20 and the interface module 10, allowing information transmission between the printing device 2 and the consumable chip 1 on the consumable cartridge. For example, during the imaging process, the chip is used to provide identification information and record the usage status information of the material (e.g., ink cartridge or toner). When the printing device 2 sends a signal to the chip, the printing device 2 is the sender and the chip is the receiver; conversely, when the chip sends a signal to the printing device 2, the chip is the sender and the printing device 2 is the receiver.

[0059] Reference Figure 2 As shown, the printing device 2 has a stylus holder 21, which includes multiple styluses, specifically: an SDA stylus 201, an RST stylus 202, an SCL stylus 203, a VCC stylus 204, and a GND stylus 205. These styluses are respectively connected to... Figure 4 The SDA contact 101, RST contact 102, SCL contact 103, VCC contact 104, and GND contact 105 on the consumable chip 1 shown are in contact.

[0060] The information transmission between the printing device 2 and the consumable chip 1 is achieved through physical electrical contact between the stylus on the printing device 2 and the contacts on the consumable chip 1. It can be understood that each contact on the consumable chip 1 has a contact portion, and the contact makes contact with the corresponding stylus through the contact portion.

[0061] Specifically, the printing device 2 sends a data signal to the consumable chip 1 through the SDA pin 201, sends a chip select signal to the consumable chip 1 through the RST pin 202, sends a periodic, alternating low-level and high-level clock signal to the consumable chip 1 through the SCL pin 203, provides the working voltage to the consumable chip 1 through the VCC pin 204, and provides a unified reference low level for receiving and sending data between the printing device 2 and the consumable chip 1 through the GND pin 205, thus ensuring the correctness and stability of the communication process.

[0062] Reference Figure 3 As shown, the stylus may specifically include a bent portion 210 at the tip of the stylus, an extension portion 220, a beveled protrusion portion 230, and a stylus body portion 240 at the tip of the stylus. Each part of the stylus can make contact with the contacts on the consumable chip 1 and be electrically connected. In this way, the consumable chip 1 of the consumable cartridge can communicate with the printing device 2 through the stylus.

[0063] However, in the prior art, the contact reliability between the consumable chip 1 / consumable cartridge and the stylus on the printing device 2 is not good, which can easily cause the consumable chip 1 to be unable to be recognized by the printing device 2.

[0064] Based on this, embodiments of this application provide a consumable chip and a consumable box, wherein two contact portions with the same electrical signal are formed on the consumable chip or the consumable box. When the consumable box is installed on the printing device, the two contact portions contact the same pin, and the two contact portions are arranged in the direction in which the consumable box is inserted into the printing device. Both contact portions are electrically connected to the electronic module of the consumable chip, thereby improving the connection reliability between the consumable chip / consumable box and the printing device.

[0065] The electronic module can be implemented using integrated circuits, microcontrollers, etc. Specifically, it can include a control unit and a storage unit. The storage unit stores information such as the consumable cartridge's identification information and ink level. The storage unit can use common non-volatile memory cells, such as EPROM, EEPROM, FLASH, ferroelectric memory cells, and phase-change memory cells. Alternatively, it can use volatile memory cells combined with a power supply, such as SRAM with a battery or capacitor, or DRAM with a battery or capacitor. The control unit controls the communication between the consumable chip and the printing device. The printing device reads information from and stores information in the electronic module. The control unit can be a microcontroller (MCU), microprocessor, FPGA, or ASIC, etc. The type of electronic module composition can be selected according to actual needs and is not limited here. The electronic module can be entirely embedded in a single wafer or implemented using external circuit modules.

[0066] The consumable chip and consumable box provided in this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments:

[0067] Reference Figures 6 to 12 As shown, this application embodiment provides a consumable chip 3 for mounting on a consumable cartridge 4. The consumable cartridge 4 is detachably mounted on a printing device 2. The printing device 2 has multiple contact pins at the positions corresponding to the mounting of the consumable cartridge 4. (Refer to...) Figure 2 As shown, the multiple contact pins include, for example, SDA contact pin 201, RST contact pin 202, SCL contact pin 203, VCC contact pin 204 and GND contact pin 205.

[0068] The consumable chip 3 includes an electronic module and multiple contacts, including at least a first contact 31 and a second contact 32. When the consumable cartridge 4 is installed on the printing device 2, the first contact 31 and the second contact 32 are in contact with the same stylus. The first contact 31 and the second contact 32 are arranged along the direction in which the consumable cartridge 4 is inserted into the printing device 2. Both the first contact 31 and the second contact 32 are connected to the electronic module, and the electrical signals of the first contact 31 and the second contact 32 are identical.

[0069] In other words, when the consumable cartridge 4 is installed on the printing device 2, the first contact part 31 and the second contact part 32 are simultaneously electrically connected to the same stylus of the stylus holder 21. The first contact part 31 and the second contact part 32 receive the same signal from the printing device 2, thereby improving the connection reliability between the consumable chip 3 and the printing device 2 and ensuring the stability of communication between the consumable chip 3 and the printing device 2.

[0070] For example, refer to Figure 6As shown, both the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 are used to electrically connect with the VCC pin 204 to receive the VCC signal. Of course, the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 can also correspond to other pins on the printing device 2 to receive other signals, which will not be elaborated here.

[0071] Continue to refer to Figure 6 As shown, in a specific implementation, the consumable chip 3 has multiple contacts: SDA contact 301, SCL contact 302, GND contact 304, VCC contact 303, etc. Each contact has a contact portion formed thereon. That is, the multiple contact portions of the consumable chip 3 may further include: an SDA contact portion formed on the SDA contact 301, an SCL contact portion formed on the SCL contact 302, a GND contact portion formed on the GND contact 304, etc. Each contact contacts the pin through its corresponding contact portion. For example, the first contact portion 31 may be formed on the VCC contact 303.

[0072] The consumable chip 3 provided in this embodiment includes multiple contact portions, including at least a first contact portion 31 and a second contact portion 32. When the consumable cartridge 4 is installed on the printing device 2, the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 are in contact with the same stylus. Both the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 are electrically connected to the electronic module of the consumable chip 3. The electrical signals of the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 are the same. In other words, by having two contact portions with the same electrical signals simultaneously contact the same stylus, the connection reliability between the consumable chip 3 and the printing device 2 is improved, thereby improving the working stability of the printing device 2 and the user experience.

[0073] Moreover, even if one of the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 experiences an unexpected poor contact with the stylus, the other of the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 will still cooperate with the stylus to provide an electrical signal connection, thereby ensuring the reliability of the connection between the consumable chip 3 and the printing device 2.

[0074] Meanwhile, since the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 are arranged along the direction in which the consumable cartridge 4 is inserted into the printing device 2, this arrangement not only facilitates the rapid and reliable contact between the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 and the stylus, but also ensures that when there are ink droplets or other liquid foreign objects on the first contact portion 31, the second contact portion 32, or the corresponding stylus, the liquid foreign objects can fall along the direction of gravity or the extension direction of the stylus, so that the ink droplets or other liquid foreign objects can fall onto the contact portion located downstream in the insertion direction of the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 as much as possible. An adsorption effect is formed at this contact portion, keeping the ink droplets or other liquid foreign objects at this contact portion position, so that the liquid foreign objects will not continue to flow to other contact portions and cause a short circuit, thereby ensuring the connection reliability between the consumable chip 3 and the printing device 2.

[0075] In some embodiments, the consumable chip 3 specifically includes a substrate 34, on which both the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 are formed. This makes the arrangement of the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 more convenient.

[0076] In the existing technology, each contact on the consumable chip 1 needs to be connected to the electronic module through different vias and wires. This results in too many wires connected to the electronic module. However, the more wires connected to the electronic module, the less stable the electronic module becomes, affecting the normal operation of the entire printing device. Moreover, a large number of wires will affect the area layout of the consumable chip 1.

[0077] Based on this, continue to refer to Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments, the substrate 34 has a connection portion 35, the connection portion 35 has internal resistance, and at least two contact portions are formed on the connection portion 35.

[0078] Among all the contacts on the connecting portion 35, at least two contacts have different electrical signals, and one of the contacts is formed as the first contact 31. The projection of the second contact 32 on the substrate 34 does not coincide with the projection of the connecting portion 35 on the substrate 34, that is, the second contact 32 is not on the connecting portion 35. Thus, the connecting portion 35 and other contacts on the connecting portion 35 with different electrical signals from the first contact 31 are connected to the electronic module through at least one of the first contact 31 and the second contact 32.

[0079] In other words, the connecting portion 35 and other contacts on the connecting portion 35 with electrical signals different from the first contact portion 31 do not need to be directly connected to the electronic module. That is, the connecting portion 35 does not need to have connecting components, such as vias and wires, electrically connected to the electronic module on the substrate 34. The connecting portion 35 is independent of the electronic module on the substrate 34. Moreover, there is no need to have connecting components, such as vias and wires, between the other contacts on the connecting portion 35 with electrical signals different from the first contact portion 31 and the electronic module. Instead, the first contact portion 31 and at least one contact with an electrical signal different from the first contact portion 31 are formed on the connecting portion 35, achieving overlap between the contacts and the connecting portion 35. Thus, the electrical connection between the connecting portion 35 and the electronic module, and between the other contacts and the electronic module, is indirectly achieved through the first contact portion 31 on the connecting portion 35 and / or through the second contact portion 32 that contacts the same pin as the first contact portion 31. Therefore, there will be no difficulties in the processing of the connecting portion 35, the other contacts, and the wires, or any adverse effects on the usage process.

[0080] It should be noted that other contact parts that have different electrical signals from the first contact part 31 refer to contact parts whose corresponding styluses are different from those of the first contact part 31, and thus receive different printing signals.

[0081] Reference Figure 6 As shown, for example, if the consumable chip 3 lacks an RST contact, other contacts on the connection portion 35 that have different electrical signals from the first contact portion 31 include a third contact portion 33. This third contact portion 33 can, for example, form the missing RST contact, and the third contact portion 33 is used to contact the RST pin 202.

[0082] Of course, it is also possible that, for example, the consumable chip 3 does not have an SDA contact, so the third contact portion 33 is formed as an SDA contact. This embodiment will not list them all.

[0083] In addition, three or more contact portions may be formed on the connecting portion 35. For example, the other contact portions mentioned above may also include a fourth contact portion. The electrical signal of the fourth contact portion is different from the electrical signals of the first contact portion 31 and the third contact portion 33, so that the third contact portion 33 and the fourth contact portion can be electrically connected to the electronic module without the need for through-hole binding wires, further reducing the number of wires connected to the electronic module.

[0084] The following explanation will be based on the example of the connecting portion 35 forming two contact portions (first contact portion 31 and third contact portion 33):

[0085] When the consumable box 4 is not installed on the printing device 2, the first contact portion 31 is formed on the connecting portion 35 with internal resistance, that is, the connecting portion 35 is electrically connected to the first contact portion 31. The third contact portion 33 is formed on the connecting portion 35, that is, the third contact portion 33 is electrically connected to the first contact portion 31 through the connecting portion 35. Since the first contact portion 31 is electrically connected to the electronic module, the third contact portion 33 is electrically connected to the electronic module. Thus, the electrical connection between the third contact portion 33 and the electronic module can be achieved without the need for through holes and wire binding.

[0086] When the consumable cartridge 4 is installed on the printing device 2, the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 contact the same stylus. Since both the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 are electrically connected to the electronic module, and the third contact portion 33 and the first contact portion 31 are formed on the connecting portion 35, and the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 are in contact through the same stylus, the third contact portion 33 can be electrically connected to the electronic module through both the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32. Even if one of the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 has poor contact with the stylus, the third contact portion 33 can still be electrically connected to the electronic module through the other of the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32, ensuring the normal transmission of the signal corresponding to the third contact portion 33. Therefore, the electrical connection between the third contact portion 33 and the electronic module can be achieved without the need for through holes and wire bonding.

[0087] As configured above, since other contacts on the connecting part 35, whose electrical signals differ from those of the first contact part 31, can be electrically connected to the electronic module without the need for through-hole wiring, the number of wiring and holes is reduced, improving the stability of the electronic module. This, in turn, improves the stability of the consumable chip 3 and the reliability of the connection between the consumable chip 3 and the printing device 2. Moreover, it facilitates the optimization of the area layout of the consumable chip 3.

[0088] In other embodiments, the number of bonding wires and vias for the consumable chip 3 can be further reduced in the following manner. The third contact portion 33 is electrically connected to the first contact portion 31 via the connecting portion 35. However, no through-holes are provided in the substrate 34 area covered by the connecting portion 35. Therefore, when the consumable cartridge 4 is not installed on the printing device 2, neither the first contact portion 31 nor the third contact portion 33 is electrically connected to the electronic module. When the consumable cartridge 4 is installed on the printing device 2, since the second contact portion 32 is electrically connected to the electronic module, the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 can simultaneously make conductive contact with the same stylus. Therefore, the first contact portion 31 can be electrically connected to the second contact portion 32 via the stylus, thereby achieving electrical connection between both the first contact portion 31 and the third contact portion 33 and the electronic module without the need for vias and bonding wires, reducing the number of bonding wires and through-holes on the substrate 34.

[0089] In some embodiments, the connecting portion 35 can be a carbon film disposed on the substrate 34, which gives the connecting portion 35 good chemical stability, low noise and high temperature resistance, thereby ensuring effective contact between the contact portion formed on the connecting portion 35 and the stylus.

[0090] Of course, in other implementations, the connecting part 35 can also be made of other resistive materials.

[0091] An illustrative example is provided, with the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 in contact with the VCC contact pin, and the third contact portion 33 in contact with the RST contact pin:

[0092] The first contact portion 31 and the third contact portion 33 respectively receive the power signal (VCC signal) and the chip select signal (RST signal) sent by the printing device 2. These two signals are transmitted to the electronic module through the second contact portion 32, which is also electrically connected to the VCC pin 204. That is, the electronic module receives a mixed signal of the chip select signal (RST signal) and the power signal (VCC signal). The electronic module includes a comparison unit, which compares the voltage of the mixed signal with an intermediate voltage, such as 2V. If the output is high, it means that the mixed signal is a high power supply voltage and a high chip select signal. If the output is low, the mixed signal is further compared with a low level, such as 0.5V, in the comparison unit. If the output is high, it means that the mixed signal is a high power supply voltage and a low chip select signal. If the output is low, it means that the power supply voltage and the chip select signal are both low. The electronic module obtains the power signal and chip select signal based on the received voltage. At the same time, it determines when the consumable chip 3 starts executing and when it stops executing the instruction received from the printing device 2. When the chip select signal is high, it means that the consumable chip 3 is enabled and the instruction starts executing. When the chip select signal is low, it means that the consumable chip 3 is disabled and the instruction ends executing.

[0093] Combination Figure 3 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the first contact portion 31 and the third contact portion 33 formed on the connecting portion 35 contact, for example, the needle body portion 240 at the needle tip, and the second contact portion 32 is located above the first contact portion 31. For example, the VCC contact 303 protrudes to form the second contact portion 32, which is connected to the extension portion 220. Of course, the second contact portion 32 can also extend upwards and be electrically connected to the bending portion 210; the specific implementation is not limited, as long as it is ensured that it is electrically connected to the same needle as the first contact portion 31.

[0094] Reference Figure 7 As shown, the contact point of the second contact portion 32 on the stylus holder 21 is the VCC stylus auxiliary contact point 2042, and the contact point of the first contact portion 31 on the stylus holder 21 is the VCC stylus carbon film contact point 2041.

[0095] Of course, the first contact portion 31 and the third contact portion 33 can also be in contact with the front or side of the inclined protrusion 230, as long as the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 receive the same printing signal from the printer.

[0096] Reference Figure 8As shown, in some embodiments, a recess 36 is provided on the substrate 34. The recess 36 has an opening, and at least a portion of the stylus extends into the recess 36 through the opening and engages with the recess 36 to form a first contact portion 31 and a second contact portion 32.

[0097] For example, the recess 36 can be a rectangular groove with an opening. The VCC pin 204 extends into the recess 36 along the opening of the rectangular groove, forming a first contact portion 31 and a second contact portion 32 on the consumable chip 3. Of course, the recess 36 can also be a blind hole or a through hole, etc.

[0098] By setting the recess 36, the recess 36 can limit the position of the stylus to a certain extent, thereby improving the stability of the stylus and further improving the reliability of the connection between the stylus and the consumable chip 3.

[0099] Combination Figures 8 to 10 As shown, exemplarily, the beveled protrusion 230 of the stylus and the needle body portion 240 extend into the recess 36 to form a snap-fit, forming a first contact portion 31 and a second contact portion 32. The first contact portion 31 is electrically connected to the connecting portion 35, and the second contact portion 32 is electrically connected to the VCC contact 303, wherein the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 are arranged along the extending direction of the stylus extension portion 220.

[0100] Reference Figure 9 As shown, for example, the contact point corresponding to the second contact portion 32 on the stylus holder 21 is the VCC stylus auxiliary contact point 2042, and the contact point corresponding to the first contact portion 31 on the stylus holder 21 is the VCC stylus carbon film contact point 2041.

[0101] When it is necessary to remove the consumable cartridge 4 from the printer 2, if the holding force of the consumable cartridge 4 is too large during the removal process, it may scratch or even tear off the contact pins, posing a significant risk. Therefore, referring to... Figure 11 As shown, in some embodiments, at least one side wall of the recess 36 is provided with a relief portion 37 to reduce the contact area between the stylus and the substrate 34.

[0102] This design ensures good contact between the stylus and the chip contact area while reducing the contact area between the stylus and the substrate 34. As a result, when the stylus is removed from the printing device 2, the holding force generated during the removal process is reduced, which to some extent avoids the stylus being scratched or torn off. It is convenient to install and remove, and provides a certain degree of protection for both the stylus and the contact area.

[0103] Continue to refer to Figure 11 The recess 36 has at least one side wall inclined in a direction away from the stylus to form a slope, and the slope is formed as the aforementioned clearance portion 37.

[0104] By setting one side wall of the recess 36 as an inclined surface, the contact area between the stylus and the substrate 34 can be reduced, resulting in a simple structure that is easy to manufacture.

[0105] For example, continue to refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the bottom surface of the stylus is a non-sloping structure, which can make the lower wall of the recess 36 tilt away from the stylus, so that the bottom of the stylus forms a point contact with the second contact part 32, or reduce the length of the line contact between the bottom of the stylus and the second contact part 32, thereby reducing the holding force generated during the disassembly process of the consumable box 4 and preventing the stylus from being damaged or torn off.

[0106] Of course, depending on the specific structure of the stylus, a clearance portion 37 can be provided on the upper wall of the recess 36. As long as the stylus and the consumable chip 3 can make good contact, the contact area between the stylus and the chip can be reduced, so as to avoid the stylus being damaged or torn off during disassembly due to excessive holding force.

[0107] In addition, in other implementations, a chamfer may be formed at the opening of the recess 36, which is formed as the aforementioned clearance portion 37.

[0108] Reference Figure 12 As shown, in some embodiments, among the multiple contacts on the consumable chip 3, at least one contact includes a first sub-contact 3031 and a second sub-contact 3032. The first sub-contact 3031 and the second sub-contact 3032 are electrically connected to the electronic module, respectively. A first contact portion 31 is formed on the first sub-contact 3031, and a second contact portion 32 is formed on the second sub-contact 3032.

[0109] In other words, by dividing at least one contact into two, the possibility of the electronic module not receiving a signal due to poor contact between the contact and the corresponding pin is reduced.

[0110] For example, refer to Figure 12 As shown, for example, the VCC contact 303 of the consumable chip 3 can include a first sub-contact 3031 and a second sub-contact 3032. After the consumable box 4 is installed in the printer, the first sub-contact 3031 and the second sub-contact 3032 are electrically connected through the VCC pin 204. By dividing the VCC contact 303 into two, the possibility of poor contact between the VCC contact 303 and the VCC pin 204 causing the electronic module to not receive a signal is reduced.

[0111] Since the first contact 3031 and the second contact 3032 are respectively connected to the electronic module, the electronic module can receive two VCC signals at the same time, which further enhances the driving force of the signal and reduces the impact of poor contact of a certain contact.

[0112] In a specific implementation, the first contact 3031 and the second contact 3032 can be respectively located on both sides of the recess 36 of the substrate 34.

[0113] Specifically, the functions of the first sub-contact 3031 and the second sub-contact 3032 of the VCC contact 303 can be different. That is, the functions performed by the first contact 31 and the second contact 32 after receiving the VCC signal are different, so that the chip can expand its functions by adding contact parts.

[0114] The following are some embodiments of differences in the signal function of the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32. It should be understood that the following embodiments should not be regarded as limitations of this application. As long as the functions achieved by the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 after receiving the (VCC) signal are different, and the chip achieves functional expansion by adding contact portions, they all belong to the original purpose of this application.

[0115] In the first example, refer to Figure 17 As shown, one of the first contact 3031 and the second contact 3032 (for example, the contact where the second contact 32 is located) is connected to ground (GND contact 304) through a large resistor (for example, more than 1kΩ). Grounding with a large resistor can provide a stable ground potential, reducing noise interference caused by ground potential fluctuations. This helps to ensure signal stability and avoid misjudgment. Grounding with a large resistor can help disperse and absorb fluctuations or noise in the power supply, reducing the impact on the chip and thus improving the chip's performance.

[0116] In the second example, refer to Figure 18 As shown, one of the first sub-contact 3031 and the second sub-contact 3032 (for example, the contact where the second contact portion 32 is located) is connected to the reset terminal (RST contact 305) through a capacitor.

[0117] Furthermore, a control switch Q1 (such as a transistor or MOSFET, which is turned on at a high level) can be set between the RST contact 305 and the electronic module, and one of the first sub-contacts 3031 and the second sub-contact 3032 is connected to the control terminal of the control switch through a capacitor.

[0118] Connecting a capacitor can delay the reset signal (i.e., the chip select signal mentioned above), ensuring that the chip has enough time to complete initialization after power-on, and avoiding startup abnormalities caused by premature reset.

[0119] In the third example, refer to Figure 19As shown, one of the first sub-contact 3031 and the second sub-contact 3032 (selected as the contact where the second contact part 32 is located) is connected to ground (GND contact 304) through a capacitor to realize circuit charging. When the system is unstable, the capacitor can respond quickly and provide transient current support.

[0120] This application embodiment also provides a consumable box 4, including a box body 41 and a consumable chip 3, wherein the consumable chip 3 is installed on the box body 41.

[0121] The consumable chip 3 in this embodiment has the same specific structure and implementation principle as the consumable chip 3 provided in the above embodiments, and can bring the same or similar technical effects. It will not be described in detail here. For details, please refer to the description of the above embodiments.

[0122] Combination Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figures 13 to 16 As shown in the embodiment of this application, another consumable box 4 is also provided. The consumable box 4 is detachably installed on the printing device 2. The printing device 2 has multiple contact pins at the position corresponding to the installation of the consumable box 4. The consumable box 4 includes a consumable chip 3, and the consumable chip 3 includes an electronic module.

[0123] The consumable cartridge 4 has multiple contact portions, including a first contact portion 31 and a second contact portion 32. When the consumable cartridge 4 is installed on the printing device 2, the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 are in contact with the same stylus. The first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 are arranged along the direction in which the consumable cartridge 4 is inserted into the printing device 2. Both the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 are electrically connected to the electronic module, and the electrical signals of the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 are identical.

[0124] The consumable cartridge 4 provided in this embodiment has multiple contact portions formed on it, including at least a first contact portion 31 and a second contact portion 32. When the consumable cartridge 4 is installed on the printing device 2, the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 contact the same stylus. Both the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 are electrically connected to the electronic module of the consumable chip 3. The first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 have the same electrical signal. That is, by having two contact portions with the same electrical signal contact the same stylus at the same time, the connection reliability between the consumable cartridge 4 and the stylus of the printing device 2 is improved, thereby improving the working stability of the printing device 2 and the user experience.

[0125] Moreover, even if one of the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 has an unexpected poor contact with the stylus, the other of the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 will still cooperate with the stylus to provide an electrical signal connection, thereby ensuring the reliability of the connection between the consumable box 4 and the stylus of the printing device 2.

[0126] Meanwhile, since the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 are arranged along the direction in which the consumable cartridge 4 is inserted into the printing device 2, this arrangement not only facilitates the rapid and reliable contact between the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 and the stylus, but also ensures that when there are ink droplets or other liquid foreign objects on the first contact portion 31, the second contact portion 32, or the corresponding stylus, the liquid foreign objects can fall along the direction of gravity or the extension direction of the stylus, so that the ink droplets or other liquid foreign objects can fall onto the contact portion located downstream in the insertion direction of the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 as much as possible. An adsorption effect is formed at this contact portion, keeping the ink droplets or other liquid foreign objects at this contact portion position, so that the liquid foreign objects will not flow to other contact portions and cause a short circuit, thereby ensuring the reliability of the connection between the consumable cartridge 4 and the printing device 2.

[0127] In some embodiments, the first contact portion 31 is formed on the substrate 34 of the consumable chip 3, and the second contact portion 32 is formed on the cartridge body 41.

[0128] In other words, the two contact parts that contact the same stylus, one of which is located on the consumable chip 3 and the other is located on the cartridge body 41, when the consumable cartridge 4 is installed on the printing device 2, the first contact part 31 and the second contact part 32 contact the same stylus.

[0129] By placing one of the two contact parts that contact the same pin on the housing body 41, it is beneficial to optimize the structural layout and area occupied by the consumable chip 3.

[0130] Reference Figure 13 As shown, in some embodiments, the consumable chip 3 has a clearance portion 38, which can be, for example, a through slot or a notch, allowing the second contact portion 32 to be exposed and contact the corresponding contact pin. For example, the second contact portion 32 formed on the VCC contact 303 is exposed to contact the VCC contact pin 204.

[0131] Continue to refer to Figure 13 As shown, in some embodiments, the box body 41 is also provided with a chip connector 42. The chip connector 42 is a conductive component. One end of the chip connector 42 is connected to the second contact portion 32. Specifically, one end of the chip connector 42 is connected to the contact point where the second contact portion 32 is located (such as VCC contact 303), and the other end of the chip connector 42 is electrically connected to the electronic module.

[0132] By setting the chip connector 42, the connection between the second contact 32 and the electronic module on the consumable chip 3 becomes more convenient.

[0133] In some embodiments, a lead-out portion (not shown) electrically connected to the electronic module can also be provided on the mounting surface of the consumable chip 3 in the consumable box 4. When the consumable chip 3 is installed into the consumable box 4, the lead-out portion is electrically connected to the other end of the chip connector 42. In some implementations, the lead-out portion and the other end of the chip connector 42 are electrically connected by contact, which avoids the cumbersome wire connection and the interference of wires with other components.

[0134] In practical implementation, if the distance between the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 is too close—for example, if the consumable chip 3 is relatively thin, causing the distance between the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion to be too close—it may easily lead to a short circuit when not in use. Based on this, refer to... Figure 15 As shown, in some embodiments, a chip holder 44 is provided on the housing body 41, and the chip is mounted on the side of the chip holder 44 opposite to the housing body 41, so as to at least increase the distance between the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 along the chip thickness direction. The thickness direction here can specifically be... Figure 15 The left and right directions of the view shown.

[0135] In other words, by setting up the chip holder 44, a greater height difference is formed between the first contact portion 31 on the consumable chip 3 and the second contact portion 32 on the box body 41, thereby avoiding a short circuit between the first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 during the storage of the consumable box 4.

[0136] Reference Figure 16 As shown, in some other embodiments, a recess 43 is provided on the box body 41, and the second contact portion 32 is located in the recess 43.

[0137] It is understandable that the recessed portion 43 is recessed in a direction away from the consumable chip 3. By placing the second contact portion 32 inside the recessed portion 43, the height difference between the first contact portion 31 on the consumable chip 3 and the second contact portion 32 inside the recessed portion 43 is increased, thereby avoiding the occurrence of a short circuit between the two contacts when not in use.

[0138] For example, the consumable box 4 is provided with contacts, such as VCC contact 303, and a second contact portion 32 is formed on the VCC contact 303. Both the VCC contact 303 and the second contact portion 32 are located within the recess 43. In some embodiments, the second contact portion 32 can be configured as a protrusion, that is, the second contact portion 32 is formed by protruding from the VCC contact 303. Specifically, the second contact portion 32 can be connected to the extension portion 220 of the stylus. Of course, in other embodiments, the second contact portion 32 can also be extended upward, for example, electrically connected to the bent portion 210 of the stylus. This embodiment does not specifically limit this, as long as the second contact portion 32 and the first contact portion 31 are electrically connected to the same stylus.

[0139] In some embodiments, the substrate 34 has a connection portion 35, the connection portion 35 has internal resistance, and at least two contact portions are formed on the connection portion 35. Among all the contact portions on the connection portion 35, at least two contact portions have different electrical signals, and one of the contact portions is formed as the first contact portion 31 described above.

[0140] For example, refer to Figure 13 As shown, for example, the connecting portion 35 extends to the edge of the consumable chip 3 to form a first contact portion 31, and the consumable box 4 is provided with a contact (such as VCC contact 303), on which a second contact portion 32 is formed. The first contact portion 31 and the second contact portion 32 are provided along the extending direction of the extension portion 220 of the stylus.

[0141] The specific structure and implementation principle of the connecting part 35 in this embodiment are the same as those in the above embodiments, and can bring the same or similar technical effects. They will not be described in detail here, but can be referred to the description of the above embodiments.

[0142] Other technical features are the same as those in the above embodiments and can bring the same or similar technical effects. They will not be described in detail here. For details, please refer to the description of the above embodiments.

[0143] The above description is merely an embodiment of this application and an explanation of the technical principles employed. Those skilled in the art should understand that the scope of disclosure in this application is not limited to technical solutions formed by specific combinations of the above-described technical features, but should also cover other technical solutions formed by arbitrary combinations of the above-described technical features or their equivalents without departing from the above-described concept. For example, technical solutions formed by substituting the above features with (but not limited to) technical features with similar functions disclosed in this application.

[0144] While some specific embodiments of this application have been described in detail by way of examples, those skilled in the art should understand that the above examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can be made to the above embodiments without departing from the scope and spirit of this application.

Claims

1. A consumable chip for mounting on a consumable cartridge, the consumable cartridge being detachably mounted on a printing device, the printing device having multiple contact pins corresponding to the mounting positions of the consumable cartridge, characterized in that... The consumable chip includes an electronic module and multiple contact portions; The plurality of contact portions include at least a first contact portion and a second contact portion, wherein the first contact portion and the second contact portion contact the same stylus when the consumable cartridge is installed on the printing device; the first contact portion and the second contact portion are arranged along the direction in which the consumable cartridge is inserted into the printing device. Both the first contact portion and the second contact portion are electrically connected to the electronic module, and the electrical signals of the first contact portion and the second contact portion are the same.

2. The consumable chip according to claim 1, characterized in that, The consumable chip includes a substrate, and both the first contact portion and the second contact portion are formed on the substrate.

3. The consumable chip according to claim 2, characterized in that, The substrate has a connecting portion, the connecting portion has internal resistance, and at least two contact portions are formed on the connecting portion; Of all the contacts on the connecting portion, at least two contacts have different electrical signals, and one of the contacts is formed as the first contact. The projection of the second contact on the substrate does not coincide with the projection of the connecting portion on the substrate, so that the connecting portion and other contacts on the connecting portion with different electrical signals from the first contact are connected to the electronic module through at least one of the first contact and the second contact.

4. The consumable chip according to claim 3, characterized in that, The connecting portion is a carbon film disposed on the substrate.

5. The consumable chip according to claim 2, characterized in that, The substrate has a recess, and the recess has an opening; At least a portion of the stylus extends into the recess through the opening and engages with the recess to form the first contact portion and the second contact portion.

6. The consumable chip according to claim 5, characterized in that, At least one side wall of the recess is provided with a clearance portion to reduce the contact area between the stylus and the substrate; At least one side wall of the recess is inclined in a direction away from the stylus to form a slope, and the slope is formed as the avoidance part.

7. The consumable chip according to claim 1, characterized in that, The consumable chip includes multiple contacts, and at least one of the contacts includes a first sub-contact and a second sub-contact, which are electrically connected to the electronic module respectively. The first contact portion is formed on the first sub-contact, and the second contact portion is formed on the second sub-contact.

8. A consumable box, characterized in that, It includes a housing body and a consumable chip as described in any one of claims 1 to 7 mounted on the housing body.

9. A consumable cartridge, detachably mounted on a printing device, wherein the printing device has multiple contact pins corresponding to the mounting positions of the consumable cartridge, characterized in that, The consumable box includes a consumable chip, and the consumable chip includes an electronic module; The consumable cartridge has multiple contact portions, each of which includes at least a first contact portion and a second contact portion. When the consumable cartridge is installed on the printing device, the first contact portion and the second contact portion contact the same stylus. The first contact portion and the second contact portion are arranged along the direction in which the consumable cartridge is inserted into the printing device. Both the first contact portion and the second contact portion are electrically connected to the electronic module, and the electrical signals of the first contact portion and the second contact portion are the same.

10. The consumable box according to claim 9, characterized in that, The consumable box includes a box body, and the consumable chip is mounted on the box body; the consumable chip includes a substrate, a first contact portion is formed on the substrate, and a second contact portion is formed on the box body.

11. The consumable box according to claim 10, characterized in that, The box body is provided with a chip holder, and the consumable chip is installed on the side of the chip holder away from the box body, so as to at least increase the distance between the first contact portion and the second contact portion along the thickness direction of the chip; Alternatively, the box body is provided with a recessed portion, and the second contact portion is located within the recessed portion.

12. The consumable box according to claim 10, characterized in that, The substrate has a connecting portion, the connecting portion has internal resistance, and at least two contact portions are formed on the connecting portion; Of all the contacts on the connecting portion, at least two contacts have different electrical signals, and one of the contacts is formed as the first contact, so that the connecting portion and other contacts on the connecting portion with different electrical signals from the first contact are connected to the electronic module through at least one of the first contact and the second contact.

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