Carbon powder container and developing cartridge

Abstract

The utility model relates to a carbon powder container for imaging equipment and developing box with the carbon powder container, carbon powder container has the drive end and non drive end of opposite arrangement along the first direction, carbon powder container includes the shell of containing carbon powder, and the powder outlet part with the shell connection and are provided with the carbon powder outlet of powder outlet part, and carbon powder supplies outward through carbon powder outlet, carbon powder container still includes drive force receiving member, is arranged in the drive end of carbon powder container for receiving drive force from carbon powder container outside, detection mechanism is arranged in the drive end of carbon powder container, detection mechanism includes rotating part, and the detected piece of transmission drive cooperation with rotating part, and drive force can be transmitted between rotating part and drive force receiving member, and, stirring transmission part is arranged in the shell, and can reciprocate along the predetermined path, wherein, rotating part is connected with stirring transmission part, and stirring transmission part and detected piece are all driven to rotate by rotating part. In this way, the drive structure and detection mechanism in the carbon powder container can be simplified.

Description

[0001] This utility model claims priority to the prior art applications filed by the applicant with the Chinese Patent Office on March 6, 2023, entitled "Toner Container, Developer Box and Processing Box" with application number 202320402348.8, and filed by the applicant with the Chinese Patent Office on June 9, 2023, entitled "Toner Container, Developer Box and Processing Box" with application number 202321480165.4, the contents of which are cross-referenced in this application. Technical Field

[0002] This utility model relates to the field of electrophotographic imaging, and more particularly to a developing cartridge that can be detachably installed in an electrophotographic imaging device and a toner container located in the developing cartridge. Background Technology

[0003] Japanese patent application JP2022157973A discloses a developing cartridge comprising a developing mechanism and a toner container connected to each other. The toner container is provided with a stirring rack for stirring toner and a toner delivery unit for supplying toner to the developing mechanism. Correspondingly, at the end of the toner container, there are stirring rack gears and drive gears that drive the stirring rack and the toner delivery unit, respectively. When the toner container is connected to the developing mechanism, as the developing mechanism receives driving force from the imaging device, the stirring rack gears and drive gears are driven, and thus the stirring rack and the toner delivery unit are also driven, allowing toner to be supplied to the developing mechanism. At the same time, the developing cartridge also includes a detection gear (detection mechanism), which is also located at the end of the toner container. By receiving the driving force of the stirring rack gear and the drive gear, the detection light on / off state of the electrophotographic imaging device is changed, thereby enabling the imaging device to identify the installation of the developing cartridge.

[0004] Generally, as a replaceable component, the overall size of the toner container should not be too large, considering the ease of operation for end users. However, when the aforementioned drive gear, stirring rack gear, and detection gear (detection mechanism) are simultaneously installed at the end of the toner container, the structure at the end of the toner container becomes too complex, occupies a lot of space, and restricts the flexibility of the overall gear assembly layout. Therefore, it is necessary to further optimize the drive structure and detection mechanism of the toner container. Utility Model Content

[0005] This utility model provides a toner container using the following technical solution to simplify the driving structure and detection mechanism of the toner container.

[0006] A toner container for use in an imaging device, the toner container having a driving end and a non-driving end disposed opposite each other along a first direction, the toner container including a housing for containing toner, a toner outlet connected to the housing, and a toner outlet disposed in the toner outlet, the toner being supplied externally through the toner outlet; characterized in that the toner container further includes:

[0007] A driving force receiver is disposed at the driving end of the toner container for receiving driving force from outside the toner container;

[0008] A detection mechanism is disposed at the drive end of the toner container. The detection mechanism includes a rotating component and a test piece that cooperates with the rotating component for transmission. A driving force can be transmitted between the rotating component and the driving force receiving component.

[0009] A stirring rack is movably disposed within the housing and is used to stir the carbon powder within the housing;

[0010] The rotating component is connected to the stirring frame, and both the stirring frame and the tested component are driven by the rotating component.

[0011] Rotate.

[0012] Furthermore, the toner container also includes a toner feeding screw rotatably disposed within the housing, the toner feeding screw being used to push the toner within the housing toward the toner outlet.

[0013] Furthermore, the toner container also includes a drive end sidewall and a container end cap disposed on the drive end, and the detection mechanism is disposed between the container end cap and the drive end sidewall.

[0014] Furthermore, the rotating component is provided with a pushing part, and the abutting surface of the pushing part is used to abut the tested component, so that the tested component rotates around the rotation axis to the detection position that blocks the detection light from passing through, and the tested component moves toward the drive end sidewall / the container end cap during the rotation.

[0015] Furthermore, a transmission component is provided between the tested component and the rotating component, and the transmission component and the tested component are rotatably connected;

[0016] The rotating component is also provided with a pushing part, and the abutting surface of the pushing part is used to abut against the transmission component, so that the transmission component rotates and drives the tested component to slide to the detection position that blocks the detection light from passing through. The transmission component and the tested component will move simultaneously toward the drive end sidewall.

[0017] Furthermore, the toner container also includes a stop member disposed on the container end cap. The stop member has a protrusion, and a limiting groove is formed between the protrusion and the container end cap. Alternatively, the stop member is disposed on the drive end side wall, and the stop member has a protrusion, and a limiting groove is formed between the protrusion and the drive end side wall.

[0018] Furthermore, the detection mechanism also includes an elastic reset member, which holds the tested component in a non-detection position.

[0019] Furthermore, the elastic reset element is a torsion spring.

[0020] Furthermore, in the initial state where the developing cartridge is not being tested, the contact surface does not come into contact with the tested item.

[0021] Furthermore, in the initial state where the developing cartridge is not being detected, the torsion spring applies a force to the transmission member, causing the transmission member to push the tested item to abut against the stop member, thereby holding the tested item in a non-detection position that allows detection light to pass through.

[0022] The beneficial effects of this utility model are:

[0023] The toner container and developing cartridge with the above structure, since the rotating component is connected to the stirring drive component, can drive the stirring drive component and the tested component at the same time, simplifying the drive end structure of the toner container, improving the accuracy of synchronous movement of the stirring drive component and the tested component, and providing a variety of detection mechanisms to improve the flexibility of the overall gear assembly layout. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1A and Figure 1B This is a perspective view of the processing box involved in Embodiment 1 of this utility model.

[0025] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the developing mechanism and toner container separated in the developing cartridge according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model.

[0026] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the toner container according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model after the first shell is hidden.

[0027] Figure 4 This is an exploded view of the chip control mechanism after it has been separated from the container body according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model.

[0028] Figure 5A This is a side view of the chip control mechanism according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model when it is in the first position, viewed along the first direction.

[0029] Figure 5B This is a side view of the chip control mechanism according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model when it is in the second position, viewed along the first direction.

[0030] Figure 6 This is an exploded view of the chip control mechanism after it has been separated from the container body according to Embodiment 2 of this utility model.

[0031] Figure 7A This is a side view of the chip control mechanism according to Embodiment 2 of this utility model when it is in the first position, viewed along the first direction.

[0032] Figure 7B This is a side view of the chip control mechanism according to Embodiment 2 of this utility model when it is in the second position, viewed along the first direction.

[0033] Figure 8 This is an exploded view of the chip control mechanism after it has been separated from the container body according to Embodiment 3 of this utility model.

[0034] Figure 9A This is a side view of the chip control mechanism according to Embodiment 3 of this utility model when it is in the first position, viewed along the first direction.

[0035] Figure 9B This is a side view of the chip control mechanism according to Embodiment 3 of this utility model when it is in the second position, viewed along the first direction.

[0036] Figure 10 This is a structural diagram of the toner container and developing mechanism in the developing cartridge of the embodiment before they are combined.

[0037] Figure 11 This is a structural diagram of the toner container in the embodiment.

[0038] Figure 12A This is a perspective sectional view of the toner container of a modified embodiment 1 equipped with a stirring and powder feeding mechanism.

[0039] Figure 12B This is a structural diagram of a modified embodiment 1 of the toner container stirring and feeding mechanism.

[0040] Figure 13A This is a perspective sectional view of the toner container of Modified Embodiment 2, which is equipped with a stirring and powder feeding mechanism.

[0041] Figure 13B This is a structural diagram of a modified embodiment 2 of the toner container stirring and feeding mechanism.

[0042] Figure 14A This is a structural diagram of Example 1 of the testing mechanism, in which the tested component is in the initial position.

[0043] Figure 14BThis is a structural diagram of the container end cap and the tested component in Example 1 of the testing mechanism, wherein the tested component is in the initial position.

[0044] Figure 14C This is a structural diagram of Example 1 of the testing mechanism, in which the tested component is in the termination position.

[0045] Figure 14D This is a structural diagram of the container end cap and the tested component in Example 1 of the testing organization, wherein the tested component is in the termination position.

[0046] Figure 15A This is a structural diagram of embodiment 2 of the testing mechanism, in which the tested component is in the initial position.

[0047] Figure 15B This is a structural diagram of embodiment 2 of the testing mechanism, in which the tested component is in the termination position.

[0048] Figure 16A This is a structural diagram of embodiment 3 of the testing mechanism, in which the tested component is in the initial position.

[0049] Figure 16B This is an exploded view of the structure of Example 3 of the testing agency.

[0050] Figure 16C This is a structural diagram of embodiment 3 of the testing mechanism, in which the tested component is in the termination position. Detailed Implementation

[0051] The embodiments of this utility model are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0052] [Example 1]

[0053] Figure 1A and Figure 1B This is a perspective view of the processing box according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the developing mechanism and toner container separated in the developing cartridge according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model.

[0054] (Processing box)

[0055] The processing cartridge 100 can be detachably installed into the imaging device, including a drum frame 1 and a developing cartridge 2 connected together. The drum frame 1 includes a drum frame 11 and a photosensitive drum 12 rotatably disposed in the drum frame. The developing cartridge 2 is rotatably disposed with a developing roller 35 carrying toner. After the developing cartridge 2 is installed into the drum frame 1, the developing roller 35 is opposite to the photosensitive drum 12 and the developing roller 35 and the photosensitive drum 12 are close to each other. When the imaging device performs developing / imaging operations, the developing roller 35 supplies toner to the photosensitive drum 12.

[0056] The processing box 100 can be configured such that the developing box 2 is first installed onto the drum stand 1 to form the processing box 100 outside the imaging device, and then the processing box 100 as a whole is detachably installed onto the imaging device; the processing box 100 can also be configured such that the drum stand 1 is first detachably installed onto the imaging device, and then the developing box 2 is detachably installed onto the drum stand, in which case the developing box 2 and the drum stand 1 form the processing box 100 inside the imaging device; the processing box 100 can also be configured such that the drum stand 1 is first fixedly installed onto the imaging device, and the developing box 2 is detachably installed onto the drum stand 1, so that when the toner is consumed, the user only needs to remove the developing box 2 from the imaging device.

[0057] (Developer box)

[0058] The developing cartridge 2 includes a developing mechanism 3 and a toner container 4 that are connected to each other. The toner container 4 stores the toner required for developing / imaging. Preferably, the developing mechanism 3 and the toner container 4 are connected in a detachable manner. In this way, when the toner in the toner container 4 is used up, the user only needs to replace the toner container 4, while the developing mechanism 3 can continue to be used, thereby reducing the user's operating costs.

[0059] The developing mechanism 3 includes a developing frame 31, a developing roller 35 rotatably disposed in the developing frame 31, and a driving head 32 disposed at one longitudinal end of the developing frame 35. The driving head 32 is used to receive driving force from the imaging device to drive the developing roller 35 to rotate. At the same time, the driving head 32 rotates about the rotation axis L1. The rotation axis L2 of the developing roller 35 can be coaxial with the rotation axis L1 or parallel to the rotation axis L1.

[0060] Before further description, the extension direction of the rotation axis L1 is defined as the first direction, the direction intersecting the first direction is defined as the second direction, and the direction intersecting the first and second directions is defined as the third direction. When the developing cartridge 2 is combined with the drum 1, the distribution direction of the developing roller 35 and the photosensitive drum 12 is the second direction. Preferably, the second direction passes through the rotation axis L2 of the developing roller 35 and the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum 12. More preferably, the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are orthogonal.

[0061] Along the first direction, the developing cartridge 2 has a driving end C1 and a non-driving end C2. Correspondingly, the processing cartridge 100, the developing mechanism 3, and the toner container 4 also have the same driving end C1 and non-driving end C2 as the developing cartridge 2. The driving head 32 is disposed at the driving end, and the developing mechanism 3 also includes a conductive component 33 disposed at the non-driving end C2. When the developing cartridge 2 is installed in the imaging device, the conductive component 33 receives power from the imaging device.

[0062] Furthermore, the developing mechanism 3 also includes a detection mechanism 34, which interacts with the object being tested in the imaging device, so that the installation action of the developing cartridge 2 / processing cartridge 100 and various parameters of the developing cartridge 2 / processing cartridge 100 are detected by the imaging device, such as the manufacturing information, status information, and service life of the developing cartridge 2 / processing cartridge 100.

[0063] The detection mechanism 34 operates by receiving the driving force from the driving head 32. Therefore, the detection mechanism 34 can be set at either the driving end C1 or the non-driving end C2. The following description takes the detection mechanism 34 being set at the non-driving end C2 as an example.

[0064] Furthermore, the developing mechanism 3 also includes a container receiving part 36 for receiving the toner container 4 and a toner inlet 361 provided in the container receiving part 36. When the toner container 4 is installed in the predetermined position of the container receiving part 36, the toner outlet 431 (as described below) located in the toner container 4 is opened, and the toner can enter the developing frame 31 from the toner outlet 431 and the toner inlet 361.

[0065] (Toner container)

[0066] As shown in the figure, the toner container 4 includes a housing 41 for containing toner, a chip 42, and a movable component 5. At least a portion of the chip 42 is supported by the movable component 5. Through the movable component 5, at least a portion of the chip 42 is movable relative to the housing 41. Specifically, at least a portion of the chip 42 can move between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the chip 42 cannot form an electrical connection with the stylus 101 in the imaging device. In the second position, the chip 42 can form an electrical connection with the stylus 101 in the imaging device.

[0067] The chip 42 includes a substrate 421, a storage unit (not shown) disposed on the substrate 421, and an electrical contact 422 electrically connected to the storage unit. The electrical contact 422 is used for electrical connection with a contact pin. Therefore, the electrical contact 422 can be directly disposed on the substrate 421 or formed separately from the substrate 421. When the electrical contact 422 is formed separately from the substrate 421, the electrical contact 422 is electrically connected to the storage unit through a wire. It is understood that at least a part of the chip 42 includes the electrical contact 422, that is, through the movable component 5, at least the electrical contact 422 is configured to be movable between a first position and a second position.

[0068] Along the first direction, the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 is disposed at one longitudinal end of the housing 41, that is, the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 can be disposed at the driving end C1 of the toner container 4 or at the non-driving end C2 of the toner container 4; the housing 41 includes a first housing 41a and a second housing 41b that are joined together. The first housing 41a and the second housing 41b are arranged adjacent to each other in the first direction. They can be formed integrally or separately. The following description takes the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 being disposed at the end of the second housing 41b as an example.

[0069] like Figure 2 As shown, the toner container 4 also includes a toner outlet 43 connected to the housing 41, and the toner outlet 431 is provided on the toner outlet 43; the developing mechanism 3 also includes a driving force output component 37, which is used to transmit the driving force received by the driving head 32 to the toner container 4, thereby driving the stirring transmission mechanism 6 described below to move.

[0070] (Stirring transmission mechanism)

[0071] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the toner container according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model after the first shell is hidden.

[0072] To prevent toner from clumping in the housing 41 and to ensure that the toner is supplied smoothly to the developing unit 3, the toner container 4 also includes a stirring drive mechanism / stirring and feeding mechanism 6. As the stirring drive mechanism 6 receives the driving force output by the driving force output member 37, the toner in the toner container 4 is stirred and the toner is conveyed toward the powder outlet 43. Then, the toner is supplied to the outside through the toner outlet 431.

[0073] The stirring transmission mechanism 6 includes a driving force receiving member 61 / 45, a stirring transmission member 62, a conveying member 63, and a first reset member 64. The driving force receiving member 61 is used to connect with the driving force output member 37 to receive driving force, thereby driving the stirring transmission member 62 to move within the housing 41. As the stirring transmission member 62 moves, the toner is pushed towards the position of the powder outlet 43. At the same time, the conveying member 63 is driven by the stirring transmission member 62 to further convey the toner to the powder outlet 43. The first reset member 64 is used to force the stirring transmission member 62 to reset, so as to ensure that the stirring transmission member 62 can be stably driven by the driving force receiving member 61. That is, the first reset member 64 enables the stirring transmission member 62 to reciprocate along a predetermined path within the housing 41.

[0074] Generally, both the drive force output component 37 and the drive force receiving component 61 are configured as gears. In other embodiments, the drive force receiving component 37 and the drive force receiving component 61 can also be configured as pulleys, friction wheels, ratchet, or other structures, as long as they can transmit the drive force between the drive force output component 37 and the drive force receiving component 61.

[0075] The toner container 4 also includes a container end cap 46, which at least partially covers the drive force receiver 61 / 45.

[0076] After being driven by the driving force receiver 61, the stirring transmission member 62 can move within the housing 41 along at least one of the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction. Specifically, the direction of movement of the stirring transmission member 62 can be parallel to or intersect with at least one of the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction. For example, an inclined surface can be provided on the stirring transmission member 62, and as the stirring transmission member 62 moves, the toner is pushed towards the position of the toner outlet 43 by the inclined surface. Preferably, under the action of the first reset member 64, the stirring transmission member 62 is set to reciprocate along the first direction, thereby making the toner supply more efficient.

[0077] like Figure 3 As shown, the driving force receiving member 61 includes a driving force receiving part 611 for receiving driving force and a driving force output part 612 for outputting driving force to the stirring transmission member 62. Preferably, the driving force output part 612 includes at least one protrusion with an inclined surface / spiral surface 613 arranged along the circumferential direction of the driving force receiving member 61. Correspondingly, the stirring transmission member 62 is provided with a mating part 622 (described below) that can cooperate with the inclined surface / spiral surface 613. As the driving force receiving member 61 is driven by the driving force output member 37 to rotate about the rotation axis L4 in the rotation direction r1, the stirring transmission member 62 is pushed towards the end / non-driving end C2 where the powder outlet 43 is located in the first direction.

[0078] The stirring transmission member 62 includes a middle part 621 and a mating part 622 and a driving part 623 respectively disposed at both longitudinal ends of the middle part 621. The mating part 622 is used to receive the driving force that forces the stirring transmission member 62 to move, and the driving part 623 is used to force the conveying member 63 to move. The first reset member 64 is configured as an elastic member that is coupled with the stirring transmission member 62. As the stirring transmission member 62 moves, the first reset member 64 undergoes elastic deformation, and the stirring transmission member 62 is reset by the elastic force of the first reset member 64.

[0079] The conveying member 63 includes a screw 633 rotatable about a rotation axis L5. Preferably, the rotation axis L5 intersects with the rotation axis L4. More preferably, the rotation axis L5 is parallel to the second direction. Furthermore, the conveying member 63 is also provided with a driven part 632, which is used to engage with the driving part 623. When the stirring transmission member 62 moves toward the non-driving end C2, the driving part 623 pushes the driven part 632 to move.

[0080] In some embodiments, the driven part 632 is configured as a ratchet coaxial with the screw 633, that is, the driven part 632 and the screw 633 have a common axis of rotation 631. In this way, the structure of the transmission member 63 can be simplified and the driving force transmission efficiency is higher. Based on this concept, the driven part 632 only needs to be able to receive the driving force of the driving part 623. Therefore, the driven part 632 can be regarded as at least one protrusion provided on the axis of rotation 631, which is used to abut against the driving part 623 to receive the driving force.

[0081] In some embodiments, the driving part 623 and the driven part 633 can also transmit the driving force in a non-contact manner. For example, magnetic elements are provided on the driving part 623 and the driven part 633 respectively, and the driving force is transmitted by the attraction or repulsion between the two magnetic elements arranged opposite to each other.

[0082] Furthermore, the powder outlet section 43 is provided with a communication port 432 communicating with the housing 41, and the conveying member 63 is also provided with a blade 634 that can move with the rotation shaft 631. Along the first direction, the blade 634 is opposite to the communication port 432. Preferably, the blade 634 can rotate with the rotation shaft 631, so that the toner can be smoothly supplied to the ink outlet section 43.

[0083] In some embodiments, the transmission member 63 can be omitted, in which case the stirring transmission member 62 can directly transport the toner to the ink outlet 43; it is understood that in the embodiments provided with the transmission member 63, the toner can be more easily transported to the powder outlet 43, and then supplied to the developing mechanism 3 through the toner outlet 431.

[0084] (Active components and their movement process)

[0085] Figure 4 This is an exploded view of the chip control mechanism after it has been separated from the container body according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model; Figure 5A This is a side view of the chip control mechanism according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model when it is in the first position, viewed along the first direction. Figure 5B This is a side view of the chip control mechanism according to Embodiment 1 of this utility model when it is in the second position, viewed along the first direction.

[0086] The active component 5 includes a main body 51 and a support 52 that are interconnected. The main body 51 is movably connected to the housing 41. The chip 42 / electrical contact 422 is supported by the support 52. Figure 2 and Figure 4As shown, in this embodiment, the movable component 5 is configured to move the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 between a first position and a second position by rotating about the rotation axis L3. Specifically, the main body 51 is configured to rotate relative to the housing 41 about the rotation axis L3. Furthermore, the movable component 5 also includes a second reset member 54 for forcing the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 to move toward the second position. The second reset member 54 is preferably an elastic member. Specifically, the second reset member 54 is a compression spring, one end of which abuts against the housing 41 and the other end of which abuts against the main body 51 / support member 52.

[0087] In some embodiments, the second reset member 54 may also be configured as a tension spring, one end of which is connected to the housing 41 and the other end of which is connected to the main body 51 / support member 52.

[0088] like Figure 4 As shown, the toner container 4 also includes an extension 44 connected to the housing 41. The extension 44 forms an active cavity 441 that can accommodate at least a portion of the second reset member 54. The main body 51 also forms a force-receiving part 53 for engaging with the second reset member 54. A portion of the main body 51 enters the active cavity 441. Preferably, a portion of the force-receiving part 53 also enters the active cavity 441. In this way, the movement trajectory of the force-receiving part 53 can be restricted by the active cavity 441, that is, the active cavity 441 plays the role of guiding the force-receiving part 53. Furthermore, the movement trajectory of the main body 51 can also be determined. Finally, the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 can accurately engage with the stylus 101 at the second position.

[0089] The extension 44 can be formed separately from the housing 41 or integrally. The extension 44 can be made of the same material as the housing 41 or a different material. Regardless of the material of the extension 44 or the form in which the extension 44 and the housing 41 are formed, the extension 44 can be regarded as part of the housing 41. Along the first direction, the extension 44 can extend from the end of the second housing 41b toward the direction away from the first housing 41a. In this case, the extension 44 is a protrusion protruding from the second housing 41b. Alternatively, the extension 44 can extend from the end of the second housing 41b toward the direction close to the first housing 41a. In this case, the extension 44 is a recess formed on the second housing 41b.

[0090] The movement process of active component 5 is described below.

[0091] First refer to Figure 5BThe imaging device is provided with a mounting rail 102 (as shown by the dotted line in the figure). Along the second direction, the mounting rail 102 has a flat portion 102a and a clearance portion 102b arranged adjacent to each other. The flat portion 102a is located upstream of the clearance portion 102b, and the clearance portion 102b is recessed relative to the flat portion 102a. The stylus 101 of the imaging device is opposite to the clearance portion 102b.

[0092] Before the processing cartridge 100 / developing cartridge 2 is installed into the imaging device, the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 is in the second position under the reset force of the second reset member 54; during the installation of the processing cartridge 100 / developing cartridge 2 into the imaging device, the movable component 5 or the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 is squeezed by the flat portion 102a, forcing the second reset member 54 to undergo elastic deformation, and correspondingly, the main body 51 moves around the rotation axis L3 along Figure 5A Rotate in the direction indicated by r2. At this time, the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 is in the first position.

[0093] When the processing cartridge 100 / developing cartridge 2 is installed in the predetermined position of the imaging device, the support member 52, or chip 42 / electrical contact 422, is aligned with the clearance part 102b, the second reset member 54 releases the reset force, and the main body 51 rotates again around the rotation axis L3. Figure 5A Rotate in the direction indicated by r3, where the direction indicated by r2 is opposite to the direction indicated by r3, and the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 enters the clearance part 102b, and the electrical contact 422 makes electrical contact with the contact pin 101 to realize the electrical connection between the two.

[0094] Preferably, the clearance portion 102b is configured such that when the support member 52 or the chip 42 / electrical contact portion 422 enters the clearance portion 102b, further movement of the support member 52 or the chip 42 / electrical contact portion 422 is restricted by the clearance portion 102b, thereby ensuring that the electrical contact portion 422 and the contact pin 101 form a stable electrical connection.

[0095] When the processing cartridge 100 / developing cartridge 2 is removed from the imaging device in a direction opposite to the installation direction, during the removal process, the support member 52, or the chip 42 / electrical contact 422, changes from a state opposite to the clearance portion 102b to a state opposite to the flat portion 102a. At this time, the main body 51 rotates again around the rotation axis L3 in the direction shown by r2, the second reset member 54 undergoes elastic deformation again, and the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 returns to the first position.

[0096] [Example 2]

[0097] Figure 6 This is an exploded view of the chip control mechanism after it has been separated from the container body according to Embodiment 2 of this utility model; Figure 7AThis is a side view of the chip control mechanism according to Embodiment 2 of this utility model when it is in the first position, viewed along the first direction; Figure 7B This is a side view of the chip control mechanism according to Embodiment 2 of this utility model when it is in the second position, viewed along the first direction.

[0098] In the above embodiments, the second reset member 54 is used to force the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 to move toward the second position, and the mounting rail 102 in the imaging device is used to force the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 to move toward the first position; in this embodiment, the second reset member (not shown) is used to force the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 to move toward the first position, and the door cover M of the imaging device is used to force the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 to move toward the second position.

[0099] The active component 5 includes a relatively movable main body 51, a pushing member 55, and a support member 52 connected to the main body 51. The chip 42 / electrical contact portion 422 is supported by the support member 52. The main body 51 is provided with a force receiving portion 511 for receiving the pushing force applied by the pushing member 55 and a first connecting portion 512 for engaging with the extension portion 44. The pushing member 55 is provided with an applied portion 554 for receiving external forces, a force applying portion 551 for applying the pushing force to the force receiving portion 511, and a second connecting portion 552 for engaging with the extension portion 44. Preferably, the force applying portion 551 and the force receiving portion 511 are configured as inclined surfaces that can cooperate with each other.

[0100] The extension 44 is also provided with a movable cavity 441, into which a part of the main body 51 and a part of the pushing member 55 can enter, such as Figure 6 As shown, the active cavity 441 includes a first cavity 441a for accommodating the main body 51 and a second cavity 441b for accommodating the pushing member 55. The first cavity 441a and the second cavity 441b intersect and communicate with each other. The first cavity 441a is provided with a first coupled portion 441c that is coupled with the first coupling portion 512, and the second cavity 441b is provided with a second coupled portion 441d that is coupled with the second coupling portion 552. It is possible that one of the coupling portion and the coupled portion can be configured as a protrusion, and the other can be configured as a groove / hole. Preferably, the extension direction of the groove / hole is consistent with the movement direction of the main body 51 / pushing member 55. It can be seen that the coupling of the coupling portion and the coupled portion not only prevents the active component 5 from detaching from the housing 41, but also limits the movement trajectory of the active component 5. During the movement of the active component 5, both the main body 51 and the pushing member 55 are guided.

[0101] like Figure 7AAs shown, the cover M can rotate in the direction indicated by r4 in the figure. When the processing cartridge 100 / developing cartridge 2 is installed in the predetermined position of the imaging device and the cover M is not yet closed, the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 is in a first position where it cannot contact the contact pin 101. Figure 5B It is known that during the installation of the processing cartridge 100 / developer cartridge 2, the chip 42 / electrical contact part 422 will not contact the mounting guide rail 102, thus the installation of the processing cartridge 100 / developer cartridge 2 will be smoother; preferably, the actuated part 554 protrudes from the second cavity 441b to receive the pushing force from the door cover M.

[0102] like Figure 7B As shown, as the door cover M rotates in the direction indicated by r4, the acted part 554 begins to abut against the door cover M, the pushing member 55 moves in the second cavity 441b, the force applying part 551 and the force receiving part 511 abut against each other, and then the main body 51 begins to move in the first cavity 441a, the chip 42 / electrical contact part 422 moves toward the second position, and the chip 42 / electrical contact part 422 reaches the second position at least before the door cover M is completely closed.

[0103] In some embodiments, the affected part 554 may also be configured not to protrude from the second cavity 441b. In this case, the protrusion provided on the door cover M can be used to enter the second cavity 441b, thereby enabling the affected part 554 to receive the pushing force of the door cover M.

[0104] During the closing process of the door cover M, the second reset member undergoes elastic deformation and accumulates reset force. When the door cover M is opened, the second reset member releases the elastic force, and the main body 51 and the pusher 55 move in opposite directions. The chip 42 / electrical contact 422 returns from the second position to the first position.

[0105] It is possible that the second reset member can also be part of the main body 51 and / or the pushing member 55 itself, such as Figure 6 As shown, the interior of the main body 51 is formed as a cavity 513. Thus, during the closing process of the door cover M, the pusher 55 squeezes the main body 51, causing the main body 51 to deform. When the door cover M is opened and the pusher 55 no longer squeezes the main body 51, the main body 51 releases its own reset force, thereby causing the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 to return from the second position to the first position.

[0106] Furthermore, the interior of the pusher 55 can also be formed as a cavity 553. During the closing process of the door cover M, both the pusher 55 and the main body 51 deform. When the door cover M is opened, both the pusher 55 and the main body 51 release the reset force, and the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 can return to the first position more smoothly from the second position.

[0107] [Example 3]

[0108] Figure 8 This is an exploded view of the chip control mechanism after it has been separated from the container body according to Embodiment 3 of this utility model; Figure 9A This is a side view of the chip control mechanism according to Embodiment 3 of this utility model when it is in the first position, viewed along the first direction; Figure 9B This is a side view of the chip control mechanism according to Embodiment 3 of this utility model when it is in the second position, viewed along the first direction.

[0109] In this embodiment, the active component 5 operates by receiving the driving force from the driving head 32. Specifically, the active component 5 receives the driving force at the non-driving end C2. For example, the active component 5 directly receives the driving force supplied to the detection mechanism 34.

[0110] like Figure 8 As shown, the active component 5 includes a main body 51 and a driving component 56 that can be coupled to each other, as well as a support portion 52 connected to the main body 51. The chip 42 / electrical contact portion 422 is supported by the support portion 52. The main body 51 is also provided with a force receiving portion 511 and a first coupling portion 512. The force receiving portion 511 is used to receive the driving force from the driving component 56, and the first coupling portion 512 is used to engage with the coupled portion 441c to prevent the main body 51 from detaching from the housing 41. At the same time, it also serves to guide the main body 51.

[0111] Continue as Figure 8 As shown, the extension 44 is provided with a movable cavity 441 and a limiting part 442. A part of the main body 51 can enter the movable cavity 441. The connecting part 441c can be provided on the extension 44 or on the housing 41, as long as it can be connected with the first connecting part 512 and guide the movement of the main body 51.

[0112] Furthermore, the main body 51 is also provided with a limited portion 514 that can be limited by the limiting portion 442. For example, one of the limiting portion 442 and the limited portion 514 is configured as an elastically deformable cantilever, and the other is configured as a protrusion; the force receiving portion 511 is configured as a rack, and the driving member 56 is configured as a gear that can mesh with the rack. The driving member 56 can be driven by the detection mechanism 34.

[0113] like Figure 9A As shown, before the processing cartridge 100 / developer cartridge 2 is installed into the imaging device, or before the processing cartridge 100 / developer cartridge 2 is installed into the predetermined position of the imaging device but before the drive head 32 receives the driving force, the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 is in the first position and will not contact the mounting rail 102. Therefore, the installation process of the processing cartridge 100 / developer cartridge 2 will be smoother.

[0114] When the driving head 32 receives the driving force, the detection mechanism 34 starts to work. At this time, the detection mechanism 34 can be used as another implementation of the driving force output component. The driving component 56 is driven by the detection mechanism 34 to rotate in the direction shown by r5. The main body 51 drives the support part 52 and the chip 42 / electrical contact part 422 to start moving towards... Figure 9A The upward movement in the middle, such as Figure 9B As shown, at least before the gear 56 disengages from the rack 511, the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 reaches the second position. When the gear 56 disengages from the rack 511, the transmission of driving force between the gear 56 and the rack 511 is interrupted. At the same time, the limiting part 514 is restricted by the limiting part 442. Therefore, the position of the main body 51 can be maintained, that is, the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 is maintained in the second position.

[0115] Similarly, in order for the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 to return from the second position to the first position, the movable component 5 can be provided with a second reset member, or the main body 51 can be elastically deformed by making the interior of the main body 51 a cavity. In some embodiments, the support 52 can also be made into a cavity. During the process of removing the processing cartridge 100 / developing cartridge 2 from the imaging device, the support 52 / main body 51 undergoes elastic deformation due to the squeezing of the mounting rail 102, thereby allowing the processing cartridge 100 / developing cartridge 2 to be removed smoothly.

[0116] When the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 has reached the second position, even if the gear 56 and rack 511 have not disengaged, the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 can still be maintained in the second position by the deformation of the main body 51 / support 52 itself.

[0117] In some embodiments, gear 56 can also be configured as a non-full tooth structure, that is, a portion of the circumferential surface of gear 56 is not provided with teeth. In this way, the number of teeth of gear 56 can be set according to the distance that chip 42 / electrical contact 422 needs to move from the first position to the second position, thereby achieving precise control of the position of chip 42 / electrical contact 422.

[0118] In some embodiments, gear 56 can also be configured to simultaneously provide driving force to the stirring transmission mechanism 6, that is, gear 56 is equivalent to the driving force receiving member 61 in Embodiment 1. In this case, it is not necessary to provide a component for transmitting driving force at the driving end C1 of toner container 4, thereby simplifying the structure of the driving end C1 of toner container 4. Furthermore, gear 56 simultaneously drives the stirring transmission member 62 and the conveying member 63 to rotate. Preferably, the stirring transmission member 62 and the conveying member 63 in the stirring drive transmission mechanism 6 are coaxially arranged.

[0119] In summary, the active component 5 can receive force through the force receiving part therein, causing the chip 42 / electrical contact 422 to move between a first position and a second position. The force receiving part can be any one of the force receiving part 53, the force-acting part 554, or the gear 56. The force can be applied by a component inside the toner container 4, such as the second reset member 54, or by a component outside the processing cartridge 100 / developer cartridge 2, such as the door cover M of the imaging device, or by a component outside the toner container 4, such as the drive head 32 of the processing cartridge 100 / developer cartridge 2.

[0120] As described above, the stirring transmission mechanism 6 only needs to be equipped with a driving force receiving element 61 / 56. After receiving the driving force, the stirring transmission mechanism stirs the toner and simultaneously conveys the toner towards the toner outlet, thus simplifying the structure of the toner container 4.

[0121] [Transformation Method]

[0122] (Modified embodiment 1 of the mixing and powder feeding mechanism)

[0123] like Figure 12A and 12B As shown, the housing 41 is provided with a powder feeding screw (a structure of the conveying member 63) 472 and a flat stirring frame (a structure of the stirring transmission member 62) 471. The powder feeding screw 472 is rotatably disposed in the housing 41 and is used to push the carbon powder in the housing 41 to the powder outlet 43; the stirring frame 471 is movably disposed in the housing 41 and is used to stir the carbon powder in the housing 41.

[0124] The powder feeding screw 472 is connected to the driving force receiver 45 located at the driving end of the toner container 4. The driving force receiver 45 and the driving force output component 37 of the developing mechanism 3 are in a transmission engagement, preferably forming a gear transmission engagement. Unlike the above embodiment, in this embodiment, when the developing cartridge is working, the driving head 32 transmits power to the powder feeding screw 472 through the driving force output component 37 and the driving force receiver 45, causing the powder feeding screw 472 to rotate. Specifically, the driving powder feeding screw 472 is directly driven by the driving force receiver 45.

[0125] In this embodiment, the housing 41 includes a first cylindrical portion 411 with a relatively large diameter and a second cylindrical portion 412 with a relatively small diameter. The powder outlet 43 can communicate with either the first cylindrical portion 411 or the second cylindrical portion 412. A stirring frame 471 is movably disposed within the first cylindrical portion 411, and a powder feeding screw 472 is rotatably disposed within the second cylindrical portion 412. The powder feeding screw 472 is provided with a pushing part 4721. When the powder feeding screw 472 rotates, the pushing part 4721 can intermittently push the stirring frame 471 in a direction away from the powder feeding screw 472 to stir the toner inside the housing 41. Preferably, the stirring frame 471 can be provided with multiple through holes 4712 to facilitate the flow of toner.

[0126] The number of pushing parts 4721 can be one or more. For example, one pushing part 4721 can be provided at each of the axial / longitudinal ends of the powder feeding screw 472 to make the movement of the stirring frame 471 more stable. The pushing part 4721 can be a protrusion that protrudes radially along the powder feeding screw 472, and its shape can be cam-shaped or other shapes. That is to say, the present invention does not specifically limit the shape of the pushing part 4721, as long as it can push the stirring frame 471 to move.

[0127] The toner container 4 is also provided with one or more (e.g., two) elastic reset members (a structure of the first reset member 64) 473, which are connected to the stirring frame 471 and the housing 41. When the pushing part 4721 separates from the stirring frame 471, the stirring frame 471 can move towards the powder feeding screw 472 to its initial position under the action of the elastic reset member 473. Under the action of the elastic reset member 473 and the powder feeding screw 471, the stirring frame 471 will reciprocate within the housing 41 to stir the toner within the housing 41 and allow the toner in the first cylindrical part 411 to enter the second cylindrical part 412. The elastic reset member 473 is preferably a spring.

[0128] (Modified embodiment 2 of the mixing and powder feeding mechanism)

[0129] As a change, such as Figure 13A and 13B As shown, the stirring rack 471 can also be an arc-shaped stirring rack, configured to move along the arc-shaped inner wall of the housing 41 (the inner wall of the first cylindrical portion 411). Using an arc-shaped stirring rack is more conducive to conveying the toner inside the housing 41 to the toner feeding screw 472, that is, more conducive to conveying the toner inside the first cylindrical portion 411 to the second cylindrical portion 412. Furthermore, configuring the arc-shaped stirring rack to move along the arc-shaped inner wall of the housing 41 can also reduce toner residue in the toner container 4 and improve toner utilization.

[0130] In this embodiment, when the powder feeding screw 472 rotates, it can drive the stirring frame 471 to stir the toner in the toner container 4, eliminating the need to set stirring frame gears for the stirring frame 471, thereby simplifying the structure of the toner container 4, especially simplifying the drive structure of the toner container 4, and increasing the design freedom of the drive end of the toner container 4.

[0131] [Other Notes]

[0132] (Testing agency)

[0133] The developing cartridge 2 also includes a detection mechanism, which can be located at the drive end of the toner container 4 and operates by receiving the driving force from the drive head 32 through the drive force receiver 45. After the developing cartridge 2 is installed into the electrophotographic imaging device, the detected component of the detection mechanism can change the on / off state of the detection light of the photoelectric sensor in the electrophotographic imaging device, thereby causing a change in the detection signal of the photoelectric sensor. This allows the imaging device to identify / detect the installation action of the developing cartridge 2 / processing cartridge 100 and various parameters of the developing cartridge 2 / processing cartridge 100, such as the manufacturing information, status information, and service life of the developing cartridge 2 / processing cartridge 100.

[0134] In the embodiments, combined with Figure 10 and 11 As shown, the container end cap 46 of the toner container 4 is provided with a first detection optical passage 461 located in the detection optical path, and the drive end sidewall 413 of the housing 41 is provided with a second detection optical passage 4131 located in the detection optical path. The first detection optical passage 461 and the second detection optical passage 4131 are arranged opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction of the toner container 4. The detection mechanism can be disposed between the container end cap 46 and the drive end sidewall 413. The following is a detailed description in conjunction with the embodiments.

[0135] (Example 1 from a testing agency)

[0136] like Figures 14A to 14D As shown, the detection mechanism of Embodiment 1 includes a test piece 481, a rotating piece 482, and a torsion spring 483 (elastic reset piece); wherein the test piece 481 has a rotation axis that coincides with the rotating piece 482. In this invention, the rotating piece 482 can be a gear, and it can form a gear transmission engagement with the driving force receiving piece 45 directly or indirectly through an intermediate gear. As a variation, the rotating piece 482 and the driving force receiving piece 45 can also form a pulley, friction wheel, or ratchet transmission mechanism, as long as the driving force can be transmitted between the rotating piece 482 and the driving force receiving piece 45.

[0137] In the detection mechanism of Example 1, a support portion 462 is provided on the inner side of the container end cap 461, and the test piece 481 is rotatably sleeved on the support portion 462. The free end of the support portion 462 is provided with an anti-detachment protrusion 463. The main body of the torsion spring 483 is sleeved on the support portion 462, and the two ends of the torsion spring 483 are respectively connected to the container end cap 461 and the test piece 481.

[0138] Furthermore, a stop 491 is provided on the inner side of the container end cap 46. For example... Figure 14A and 14B As shown, in the initial state where the developing cartridge is not being detected, the torsion spring 483 causes the tested piece 481 to abut against the stop piece 491, so as to keep the tested piece 481 in a non-detection position that allows the detection light to pass through; at the same time, the main body of the torsion spring 483 can apply a force to the tested piece 481, so that the tested piece 481 abuts against the anti-detachment protrusion 463.

[0139] The rotating component 482 is provided with a pushing part 4821, and the pushing part 4821 is provided with a contact surface 4822, which can be an inclined surface, an arc surface, or a spiral surface. In the initial state where the developing cartridge is not being detected, the contact surface 4822 does not contact the tested item 481; when the imaging device detects the developing cartridge, as the rotating component 482 rotates, the contact surface 4822 contacts the tested item 481, causing the tested item 481 to rotate around the rotation axis to a detection position that blocks the passage of detection light, and during the rotation of the tested item 481, it moves towards the inner wall of the container end cap 46 (away from the anti-detachment protrusion 463). At the detection position, the tested item can block the transmission of light signals between the first detection light aperture 461 and the second detection light aperture 4131.

[0140] The side of the push part 4821 facing the container end cap 46 forms an end face 4823. Preferably, the end face 4823 can be a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating member 482. As the rotating member 482 rotates further, the tested member 481 separates from the contact surface 4822 to complete the testing process. The tested member 481 will enter the gap between the push part 4821 and the container end cap 46 and abut against the end face 4823.

[0141] Furthermore, the stop 491 is provided with a protrusion 492, and a limiting groove 493 is formed between the protrusion 492 and the inner wall of the container end cap 46. After the inspection process of the tested item 481 is completed, the contact surface 4822 no longer contacts the tested item 481; at this time, as Figure 14C and 14D As shown, under the action of the torsion spring 483, the detected part 482 can rotate from the detection position to the non-detection position and enter the limiting groove 493, so that the detected part 481 is no longer pushed by the rotating part 482.

[0142] (Example 2 from the testing agency)

[0143] like Figures 15A to 15B As shown, the detection mechanism of Embodiment 2 includes a test piece 481, a rotating piece 482, and a torsion spring 483 (elastic reset piece); wherein the test piece 481 has a rotation axis that is parallel to the rotating piece 482.

[0144] In the detection mechanism of Embodiment 2, a support portion 4132 is provided on the drive end sidewall 413 of the housing 41. The test piece 481 is rotatably sleeved on the support portion 4132, and the free end of the support portion 4132 is provided with an anti-detachment protrusion 4133. The main body of the torsion spring 483 is sleeved on the support portion 4132, and the two ends of the torsion spring 483 are respectively connected to the drive end sidewall 413 and the test piece 481.

[0145] Furthermore, a stop 491 is provided on the drive end sidewall 413. For example... Figure 15A As shown, in the initial state where the developing cartridge is not being detected, the torsion spring 483 causes the tested piece 481 to abut against the stop piece 491, so as to keep the tested piece 481 in a non-detection position that allows the detection light to pass through; at the same time, the main body of the torsion spring 483 can apply a force to the tested piece 481, so that the tested piece 481 abuts against the anti-detachment protrusion 4133.

[0146] The rotating component 482 is provided with a pushing part 4821, and the pushing part 4821 is provided with a contact surface 4822, which can be an inclined surface, an arc surface, or a spiral surface. In the initial state where the developing cartridge is not being detected, the contact surface 4822 does not contact the object being detected 481; when the imaging device detects the developing cartridge, as the rotating component 482 rotates, the contact surface 4822 contacts the object being detected 481, causing the object being detected 481 to rotate around the rotation axis to a detection position that blocks the passage of detection light, and during the rotation of the object being detected 481, it moves towards the drive end sidewall 413 (away from the anti-detachment protrusion 4133). At the detection position, the object being detected can block the transmission of light signals between the first detection light aperture 461 and the second detection light aperture 4131.

[0147] The side of the pushing part 4821 facing the drive end sidewall 413 forms an end face 4823. Preferably, the end face 4823 can be a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating member 482. As the rotating member 482 rotates further, the detected member 481 separates from the contact surface 4822 to complete the detection process. The detected member 481 will enter the gap between the pushing part 4821 and the drive end sidewall 413 and abut against the end face 4823.

[0148] Furthermore, the stop member 491 is provided with a protrusion 492, and a limiting groove 493 is formed between the protrusion 492 and the drive end sidewall 413. After the detection process of the tested member 481 is completed, the contact surface 4822 no longer contacts the tested member 481; at this time, as Figure 15B As shown, under the action of the torsion spring 483, the detected part 482 can rotate from the detection position to the non-detection position and enter the limiting groove 493, so that the detected part 481 is no longer pushed by the rotating part 482.

[0149] (Example 3 from the testing agency)

[0150] like Figures 16A-16C As shown in Embodiment 3 of the detection mechanism, a sliding guide portion 4134 is provided on the drive end sidewall 413 of the toner container 4, and a sliding fit is formed between the sliding guide portion 4134 and the tested component 481. Specifically, the sliding guide portion 4134 is provided with a guide groove 4135, and the tested component 481 is provided with a guide post 4811 that cooperates with the guide groove 4135. The sliding guide portion 4134 is made of a material that allows light to pass through, so as to avoid affecting the transmission of the detection light.

[0151] A transmission member 484 is provided between the tested component 481 and the rotating component 482. The transmission member 484 is rotatably connected to the connecting arm 4812 of the tested component 481. The connecting arm 4812 and the guide post 4811 can have an integrally formed structure. Specifically, a support portion 4132 is provided on the drive end sidewall 413 of the housing 41. The transmission member 484 is rotatably sleeved on the support portion 4132. The main body of the torsion spring 483 is sleeved on the support portion 4132, and the two ends of the torsion spring 483 are respectively connected to the drive end sidewall 413 and the transmission member 484.

[0152] Furthermore, a stop 491 is provided on the drive end sidewall 413, and the stop 491 can be connected to the sliding guide portion 4134. For example... Figure 16A As shown, when the developing cartridge is in the initial undetected state, the torsion spring 483 applies a force to the transmission member 484, causing the transmission member 484 to push the detected member 481 to abut against the stop member 491, so as to keep the detected member 481 in a non-detection position that allows the detection light to pass through.

[0153] The rotating component 482 is provided with a pushing part 4821, and the pushing part 4821 is provided with a contact surface 4822. Preferably, the contact surface 4822 can be an inclined surface, an arc surface, or a spiral surface. In the initial state where the developing cartridge is not being detected, the contact surface 4822 does not contact the transmission component 484. When the imaging device detects the developing cartridge, as the rotating component 482 rotates, the contact surface 4822 contacts the transmission component 484, causing the transmission component 484 to rotate. When the transmission component 484 rotates, it will drive the tested component 481 to slide to the detection position that blocks the passage of detection light. During this process, the transmission component 484 and the tested component 481 will move simultaneously toward the drive end sidewall 413. At the detection position, the tested component 481 can block the transmission of light signals between the first detection light aperture 461 and the second detection light aperture 4131.

[0154] The pushing part 4821 has an end face 4823 on the side facing the drive end sidewall 413. The end face 4823 can be a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating member 482. As the rotating member 482 rotates further, the transmission member 484 separates from the abutment surface 4822 to complete the detection process. The transmission member 484 will enter the gap between the pushing part 4821 and the drive end sidewall 413 and abut against the end face 4823.

[0155] Furthermore, the stop member 491 is provided with a protrusion 492, and a limiting groove 493 is formed between the protrusion 492 and the drive end sidewall 413. After the detection process of the tested member 481 is completed, the contact surface 4822 no longer contacts the transmission member 484; at this time, as Figure 16C As shown, under the action of the torsion spring 483, the transmission component 484 can rotate in the opposite direction, thereby causing the detected component 481 to slide to the non-detection position, and the detected component 481 enters the limiting groove 493, so that the detected component 481 is no longer pushed by the rotating component 482.

[0156] As a variation of Embodiment 3, the detected element 481 can also be configured to move or move in other ways under the drive of the transmission element 484. For example, the detected element 481 can be configured to rotate between the detection position and the non-detection position under the drive of the transmission element 484.

[0157] Furthermore, although the above-described embodiments 1-3 of the detection mechanism only describe that the tested component 481 blocks the detection light only once during the detection process, as a variation, the tested component 481 can also be set to block the detection light twice: First, the tested component 481 moves to the detection position that blocks the detection light from passing through in the predetermined direction under the drive of the rotating component 482, and then continues to move in the predetermined direction and moves away from the detection position. During this process, the contact surface 4822 of the rotating component 482 remains in contact with the tested component 481 or the transmission component 484; then, the contact surface 4822 of the rotating component 482 separates from the tested component 481 or the transmission component 484. At this time, the tested component 481 moves in the opposite direction to the aforementioned predetermined direction under the restoring force of the torsion spring 483. During this process, the tested component 481 will move to the detection position that blocks the detection light from passing through again until it enters the limiting groove 493.

[0158] It is easy to understand that in the above-described embodiments 1-3 of the detection mechanism, the non-detection position of the tested item 481 in the initial state and the non-detection position after detection can be different, as long as the transmission of the detection light is not blocked. As a variation, the rotating component 482 can be connected to a stirring rack disposed inside the toner container to drive the stirring rack to rotate and stir the toner. In this way, both the stirring rack and the tested item are driven to rotate by the rotating component 482, which helps to simplify the drive end structure of the toner container 4.

[0159] Furthermore, in the embodiment, the tested component 481 is held in a non-detection position by an elastic reset component, such as a torsion spring 483, which helps to simplify the structure of the detection mechanism and optimize the space management and design freedom of the toner container 4 drive end.

[0160] It should be noted that, unless there are contradictory or mutually exclusive circumstances, the different embodiments disclosed above may be referenced, consulted or combined with each other, and the technical features / components of different embodiments may also be combined and / or substituted with each other.

[0161] Although the present invention has been described above through embodiments, it should be understood that the above embodiments are only used to exemplarily describe the possible implementations of the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the present invention. That is, any substitutions or changes made by those skilled in the art in accordance with the present invention should also be covered by the scope of protection of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A toner container for use in an imaging device, the toner container having a driving end and a non-driving end disposed opposite each other along a first direction, the toner container comprising a housing for containing toner, a toner outlet connected to the housing, and a toner outlet disposed in the toner outlet, the toner being supplied externally through the toner outlet; characterized in that, Toner containers also include: A driving force receiver is disposed at the driving end of the toner container for receiving driving force from outside the toner container; A detection mechanism is disposed at the drive end of the toner container. The detection mechanism includes a rotating component and a test piece that cooperates with the rotating component for transmission. A driving force can be transmitted between the rotating component and the driving force receiving component. A stirring rack is movably disposed within the housing and is used to stir the carbon powder within the housing; The rotating component is connected to the stirring frame, and both the stirring frame and the tested component are driven to rotate by the rotating component.

2. The toner container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The toner container also includes a toner feeding screw rotatably disposed within the housing, the toner feeding screw being used to push the toner within the housing toward the toner outlet.

3. The toner container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The toner container also includes a drive end sidewall and a container end cap disposed on the drive end, and the detection mechanism is disposed between the container end cap and the drive end sidewall.

4. The toner container according to claim 3, characterized in that, The rotating component is provided with a pushing part, and the abutting surface of the pushing part is used to abut the tested component, so that the tested component rotates around the rotation axis to the detection position that blocks the detection light from passing through, and the tested component moves toward the drive end sidewall / the container end cap during the rotation.

5. The toner container according to claim 3, characterized in that, A transmission component is provided between the tested component and the rotating component, and the transmission component and the tested component are rotatably connected; The rotating component is also provided with a pushing part, and the abutting surface of the pushing part is used to abut against the transmission component, so that the transmission component rotates and drives the tested component to slide to the detection position that blocks the detection light from passing through. The transmission component and the tested component will move simultaneously toward the drive end sidewall.

6. The toner container according to claim 5, characterized in that, The toner container also includes a stop member disposed on the container end cap. The stop member has a protrusion, and a limiting groove is formed between the protrusion and the container end cap. Alternatively, the stop member is disposed on the drive end side wall, and the stop member has a protrusion, and a limiting groove is formed between the protrusion and the drive end side wall.

7. The toner container according to claim 6, characterized in that, The detection mechanism also includes an elastic reset element, which holds the tested component in a non-detection position.

8. The toner container according to claim 7, characterized in that, The elastic reset element is a torsion spring.

9. The toner container according to claim 7, characterized in that, In the initial state where the developing cartridge is not being tested, the contact surface does not come into contact with the item being tested.

10. The toner container according to claim 8, characterized in that, In the initial state where the developing cartridge is not being detected, the torsion spring applies a force to the transmission member, causing the transmission member to push the object to be detected to abut against the stop member, thereby holding the object to be detected in a non-detection position that allows the detection light to pass through.

Images