Cartridge, cartridge set, and image forming apparatus

Abstract

This application provides a cartridge, a cartridge assembly, and an image forming apparatus. The cartridge is detachably mounted on the image forming apparatus body. The image forming apparatus body includes a protective component for protecting a conductive unit. When the cartridge is not installed on the image forming apparatus body, the protective component is located in a first position to protect the conductive unit. The cartridge includes a housing and a pusher. The pusher is disposed on the housing and includes an inclined portion. The inclined portion is configured to force the protective component in the image forming apparatus to move from the first position to a second position during the displacement process of the cartridge in the image forming apparatus to a predetermined position, thereby releasing the protection of the conductive unit. In this application embodiment, it can be ensured that the cartridge is installed in place and / or multiple cartridges are installed in the correct order, thereby improving the development quality.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of image forming technology, and more specifically to a box, a box assembly, and an image forming apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of printing and imaging technology, image forming devices such as printers, copiers, fax machines, and word processors have been widely used. For ease of use, image forming devices are typically equipped with easily replaceable consumables. For example, consumable cartridges (such as ink, toner, etc.) are used to hold recording materials. When the recording material in the cartridge is depleted, the user simply replaces the cartridge, and the image forming device can continue to be used.

[0003] In a color image forming apparatus, there are typically multiple cartridges for holding toner of basic colors, and imaging components for the corresponding basic colors disposed within the apparatus. The cartridges supply toner to the imaging components of their respective colors. The imaging components include a photosensitive drum, a charging assembly, and a developing assembly. The charging assembly uniformly charges the surface of the photosensitive drum. This uniformly charged surface of the photosensitive drum carries an electrostatic latent image. The latent image is developed by the developing assembly and toner. By superimposing multiple basic color toners, a rich variety of colors can be obtained, thus forming a color image. For example, a certain color image forming apparatus includes cartridges for holding yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) toner, respectively. Corresponding to the cartridges, the image forming apparatus has receiving cavities for holding the cartridges of the corresponding colors. It is understood that the yellow, magenta, cyan, and black cartridges should be installed sequentially within the yellow, magenta, cyan, and black receiving cavities, respectively.

[0004] In existing technologies, to reduce costs, boxes corresponding to different colors are typically standardized and configured with the same structure. Therefore, users may encounter confusion when installing boxes of multiple colors, leading to incorrect installation order. For example, the magenta box might be installed inside the cyan chamber, and the cyan box inside the magenta chamber. In this case, magenta toner might be supplied to the cyan imaging component, and cyan toner to the magenta imaging component, resulting in degraded development or image quality, thus affecting the user experience. Furthermore, in existing technologies, the excessive length of the imaging components can lead to improper box installation. Understandably, when the cartridge is not installed correctly, the toner inside the cartridge cannot be supplied to the imaging unit properly, which will also lead to deterioration of development or image quality, thus affecting the user experience. Therefore, in the prior art, a metal plate is provided on the cartridge, and an electrical detection device is provided on the image forming apparatus. The electrical detection device works in conjunction with the metal plate to detect whether the cartridge is installed correctly on the image forming apparatus. If the user installs multiple colored cartridges in a disordered order, the cartridge and the image forming apparatus will interfere with each other, which may damage the metal plate on the cartridge or the electrical detection device of the image forming apparatus. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of this, this application provides a cartridge, a cartridge assembly, and an image forming apparatus to solve the problem in the prior art where the disordered installation order of cartridges of various colors causes installation interference between the cartridges and the image forming apparatus, resulting in damage to the metal sheet on the cartridge or the electrical detection device of the image forming apparatus, and further leading to development degradation or image quality degradation.

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a housing detachably mounted on an image forming apparatus body, characterized in that the image forming apparatus body includes a protective component for protecting a conductive unit; when the housing is not mounted on the image forming apparatus body, the protective component is located in a first position to protect the conductive unit; the housing includes:

[0007] case;

[0008] A pusher, wherein the pusher is disposed on the housing;

[0009] The pushing member includes an inclined portion configured to force a protective component in the image forming apparatus to move from a first position to a second position during the displacement of the cartridge in the image forming apparatus to a predetermined position, thereby releasing the protection of the conductive unit.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the pusher further includes a limiting portion configured such that when the protective member moves to the second position, the cartridge continues to move to a predetermined position in the mounting direction of the image forming apparatus, thereby limiting the protective member to remain in the second position.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the inclined portion and the limiting portion are integrally formed;

[0012] Alternatively, the inclined portion and the restrictive portion are independent of each other.

[0013] In one possible implementation, the inclined portion includes a first end and a second end, and the limiting portion includes a third end and a fourth end, with the first end and the third end in contact.

[0014] Alternatively, a gap may be provided between the first end and the third end.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the protective component includes a blocking member and an elastic member, the blocking member including a blocking portion and a mating portion; the blocking portion is used to cover at least a portion of the conductive unit under the elastic force of the elastic member when the cartridge is not installed in a predetermined position in the image forming apparatus.

[0016] The inclined portion of the pusher matches the mating portion. The inclined portion is used to push the mating portion when the box is installed in a predetermined position in the pattern forming apparatus, thereby moving the blocking portion and releasing the blocking portion from protecting the conductive unit.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the box includes an upper surface with a first groove for accommodating an assembly unit on which a first conductive sheet and a second conductive sheet are mounted, and the pusher.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the first groove has a first sidewall, a second sidewall, and a third sidewall, and the pushing member is disposed between the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the second end of the inclined portion is connected to the first sidewall, and the fourth end of the restrictive portion is connected to the second sidewall.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the first conductive sheet and the second conductive sheet are disposed closer to one side of the limiting portion than the inclined portion.

[0021] In one possible implementation, with the second sidewall of the first groove as a reference plane, the protrusion length of the assembly unit is L1, and the length of the limiting portion is L2, where L1 ≥ L2.

[0022] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a box assembly that is detachably mounted on the body of an image forming apparatus, comprising a plurality of boxes as described in any one of the first aspects.

[0023] In one possible implementation, when the cassette assembly is mounted on the image forming apparatus body, the plurality of cassettes are arranged in a row, and the assembly units and pushers of the plurality of cassettes are positioned differently on the cassettes.

[0024] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide an image forming apparatus, including a body and a cassette as described in any one of the first aspects, or a body and a cassette assembly as described in any one of the second aspects.

[0025] In the embodiments of this application, it can be ensured that the cartridges are installed in place and / or that multiple cartridges are installed in the correct order, thereby improving the development quality. Attached Figure Description

[0026] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0027] Figure 1 A structural block diagram of an image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 2 A partial structural schematic diagram of an image forming apparatus body provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of a box provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 4 This is a structural schematic diagram of a sheet metal part provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 5 A structural block diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 6 A structural block diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 7 A structural block diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a conductive unit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of another conductive unit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 10The embodiments provided in this application are related to Figure 8 and Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the structure of the box that matches the conductive unit shown;

[0037] Figure 11 Provided for the embodiments of this application Figure 10 Structural diagram;

[0038] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of another conductive unit provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 13 The embodiments provided in this application are related to Figure 12 A partial structural diagram of the box matching the conductive unit shown;

[0040] Figure 14 A structural block diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figures 15A-15C This application provides a schematic diagram of a process for inserting a box into a receiving cavity, as illustrated in an embodiment of the present application.

[0042] Figure 16 A structural block diagram of a box provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 17 A structural block diagram of another box provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 18 A structural block diagram of another box provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 19 A structural block diagram of a box assembly provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 20 A structural block diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 21 A structural block diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 22 A structural block diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 23 A structural block diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 24 This is a schematic diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0051] To better understand the technical solution of this application, the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0052] It should be understood that the described embodiments are merely some, not all, of the embodiments in this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments in this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0053] The terminology used in the embodiments of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this application. The singular forms “a,” “the,” and “the” used in the embodiments of this application and the appended claims are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0054] It should be understood that the term "and / or" used in this article is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this article generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0055] See Figure 1 This is a structural block diagram of an image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 1 As shown, the image forming apparatus 100 includes an image forming apparatus body 110 (which may also be referred to simply as "body" in other parts of this document) and a cartridge 150, such as an ink cartridge, toner cartridge, toner tube, drum unit, etc.

[0056] The image forming apparatus body 110 includes a frame 111 and a receiving cavity 112 for receiving a box 150. A mating unit 114 is provided on the frame 111, and a matching assembly unit 151 is provided on the box 150. The assembly unit 151 and the mating unit 114 cooperate so that the box 150 can be installed in a predetermined position in the receiving cavity 112. In addition, a conductive unit 113 and an electrical signal response unit 115 are provided on the frame 111. The electrical signal response unit 115 in this application is electrically connected to the conductive unit 113 and the control device of the image forming apparatus body 110, respectively. An electrical signal triggering component 152 matching the conductive unit 113 is provided on the box 150. When the box 150 is installed in the receiving cavity 112 to a predetermined position, the electrical signal triggering component 152 is electrically connected to the conductive unit 113 and triggers the electrical signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal. The predetermined response signal is used to determine whether the installation of the box 150 meets expectations, that is, to determine whether the box 150 is installed in place.

[0057] In this application, when the cartridge 150 is installed in the receiving part 112 to a predetermined position, the cartridge 150 is installed inside the image forming apparatus body 110 and can perform image forming operations normally, such as normal printing and normal toner supply.

[0058] In one possible implementation, the predetermined response signal is a high-level signal (e.g., a 3.3V voltage signal). Specifically, when the box 150 is installed in the receiving cavity 112 to the predetermined position, the electrical signal triggering component 152 is electrically connected to the conductive unit 113 and triggers the electrical signal response unit 115 to obtain a high-level signal. Based on this high-level signal, it can be determined that the installation of the box 150 is as expected, i.e., it is installed in place; conversely, if the electrical signal response unit 115 obtains a low-level signal, it indicates that the installation of the box 150 is not as expected, i.e., it is not installed in place.

[0059] Similarly, the predetermined response signal can also be a low-level signal (e.g., a 0V voltage signal). Specifically, when the box 150 is installed in the receiving cavity 112 to the predetermined position, the electrical signal triggering component 152 is electrically connected to the conductive unit 113 and triggers the electrical signal response unit 115 to obtain a low-level signal. Based on this low-level signal, it can be determined that the installation of the box 150 is as expected, that is, it is installed in place; conversely, if the electrical signal response unit 115 obtains a high-level signal, it indicates that the installation of the box 150 is not as expected, that is, it is not installed in place.

[0060] In this embodiment, since the electrical signal triggering component 152 can determine whether the installation of the cartridge 150 meets expectations through a predetermined response signal, it can avoid the occurrence of development degradation or image quality degradation due to improper installation of the cartridge 150.

[0061] For ease of understanding, the above technical solution will be described below with reference to the specific structure of the image forming apparatus 100.

[0062] See Figure 2 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of an image forming apparatus body provided in an embodiment of this application; see also Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a box provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 and combined Figure 3As shown, the image forming apparatus body 110 includes a frame 111 and receiving cavities 112Y~K. The receiving cavities 112Y~K are structurally matched with cartridges 150Y~K (specifically, powder cartridges), allowing cartridges 150Y~K to be installed in a predetermined position within the receiving cavities 112Y~K. Additionally, a conductive unit 113Y~K is provided on the frame 111, and an electrical signal triggering component 152Y~K matching the conductive unit 113Y~K is provided on the cartridges 150Y~K. When the cartridges 150Y~K are installed in the predetermined position within the receiving cavities 112Y~K, the electrical signal triggering component 152Y~K is electrically connected to the conductive unit 113Y~K, triggering an electrical signal response unit 115 (not shown) to acquire a predetermined response signal. This predetermined response signal is used to determine whether the installation of the cartridges 150Y~K meets expectations.

[0063] like Figure 2 and combined Figure 4 As shown, in one possible implementation, the frame 111 includes a sheet metal part, and conductive units 113Y~K are disposed on the sheet metal part. When the sheet metal part is fixed above the receiving cavity 112Y~K, one end of the conductive unit 113Y~K is exposed inside the receiving cavity 112Y~K, and the other end passes through the sheet metal part for electrical connection with other functional units of the image forming apparatus 100 (e.g., electrical signal response unit 115). In addition, an imaging component receiving cavity 116Y~K is also provided on the image forming apparatus body 110. The imaging component receiving cavity 116Y~K and the imaging component (not shown in the figure) are structurally matched so that the imaging component can be installed in the imaging component receiving cavity 116Y~K to a predetermined position.

[0064] It should be pointed out that, Figures 2-4 The image forming apparatus body 110 and the cartridges 150Y~K shown correspond to the color image forming apparatus 100. Therefore, the image forming apparatus body 110 includes a plurality of receiving cavities 112Y~K and a plurality of cartridges 150Y~K corresponding to the plurality of receiving cavities 112Y~K. In this case, in order to avoid confusion when the user installs the plurality of cartridges 150Y~K into the plurality of receiving cavities 112Y~K, the different receiving cavities 112Y~K and the different cartridges 150Y~K are differentiated so that the user can only install the cartridges 150Y~K into the predetermined receiving cavities 112Y~K, which will be described in detail below.

[0065] See Figure 5 This is a structural block diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 5 As shown, the embodiments of this application are in Figure 1Based on this, the conductive unit 113 further includes a first conductive component 1131 and a second conductive component 1132. When the box 150 is not installed in the predetermined position in the receiving cavity 112, the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are electrically isolated. This electrical isolation can be understood as the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 being mutually insulated, i.e., having no electrical connection. When the box 150 is installed in the predetermined position in the receiving cavity 112, the electrical signal triggering component 152 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 respectively (e.g., ...). Figure 5 (as shown in the state), thereby triggering the electrical signal response unit 115 to acquire the predetermined response signal.

[0066] For example, the first conductive component 1131 is connected to a 0V voltage, the second conductive component 1132 is connected to a 3.3V voltage, and the electrical signal response unit 115 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131. It can be understood that when the box 150 is not installed in the predetermined position in the receiving cavity 112, the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are electrically isolated, and the electrical signal response unit 115 receives a 0V voltage. When the box 150 is installed in the predetermined position in the receiving cavity 112, the electrical signal triggering component 152 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132, thereby making the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 electrically connected, and the electrical signal response unit 115 receives a 3.3V voltage. Based on this voltage change, it can be determined whether the box 150 is installed in the predetermined position in the receiving cavity 112.

[0067] Similarly, if the first conductive component 1131 is connected to a 3.3V voltage and the second conductive component 1132 is connected to a 0V voltage, the electrical signal response unit 115 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131. It can be understood that when the box 150 is not installed in the predetermined position in the receiving cavity 112, the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are electrically isolated, and the electrical signal response unit 115 receives a 3.3V voltage. When the box 150 is installed in the predetermined position in the receiving cavity 112, the electrical signal trigger component 152 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 respectively, thereby making the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 electrically connected, and the electrical signal response unit 115 receives a 0V voltage. Based on this voltage change, it can be determined whether the box 150 is installed in the predetermined position in the receiving cavity 112.

[0068] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, the electrical connection in "the electrical signal triggering component 152 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 respectively" can be a contact electrical connection or a non-contact electrical connection. For example, a non-contact electrical connection can be achieved through the principle of electromagnetic conversion, etc. The embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0069] In one possible implementation, the frame 111 includes a top plate and a side plate arranged adjacent to each other, a first conductive component 1131 and a second conductive component 1132 are disposed on the top plate, and an electrical signal response unit 115 is disposed on the side plate.

[0070] See Figure 6 The embodiments of this application are in Figure 5 Based on this, further description shows that the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are disposed on the top plate of the frame 111. The first conductive component 1131 is electrically connected to the power supply of the image forming apparatus body 110 through a pull-up resistor, and the second conductive component 1132 is grounded. The electrical signal response unit 115 is disposed on the side plate. The electrical signal response unit 115 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131 and is also electrically connected to the power supply of the image forming apparatus body 110 through a pull-up resistor. The predetermined response signal is a high-level signal (e.g., a 3.3V voltage signal). Specifically, when the box 150 is installed in the receiving cavity 112 to the predetermined position, the electrical signal triggering component 152 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132. The electrical signal triggering component 152 forms a short circuit by electrically connecting the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132. At this time, the pull-up resistor is grounded to form a low-level signal. When the electrical signal response unit 115 obtains the low-level signal, it can be determined that the installation of the box 150 is as expected, that is, it is installed in place.

[0071] Similarly, in other embodiments, the second conductive component 1132 of the image forming apparatus body 110 can be electrically connected to the power supply unit through a pull-up resistor, and the first conductive component 1131 can be grounded. Thus, when the electrical signal triggering component 152 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132, the electrical signal response unit obtains a high level, and it can be determined that the installation of the box 150 is as expected, that is, it is installed in place.

[0072] See Figure 7 This is a structural block diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 7 As shown, the embodiments of this application are in Figure 5 Based on this, the electrical signal triggering component 152 further includes a first conductive sheet 1521 and a second conductive sheet 1522, wherein the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 are electrically connected. When the box 150 is installed in the receiving cavity 112 to a predetermined position, the first conductive sheet 1521 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131, and the second conductive sheet 1522 is electrically connected to the second conductive component 1132, thereby triggering the electrical signal response unit 115 to acquire a predetermined response signal.

[0073] It should be noted that in the embodiments of this application, the electrical connection in "the first conductive sheet 1521 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131, and the second conductive sheet 1522 is electrically connected to the second conductive component 1132" can be a contact electrical connection or a non-contact electrical connection. For example, a non-contact electrical connection can be achieved through the principle of electromagnetic conversion, etc. The embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0074] In one possible implementation, the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 each include a metal conductive sheet or multiple interconnected metal conductive sheets. Further, when the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are two interconnected metal conductive sheets, the two metal conductive sheets form a V-shape after contact. Alternatively, the shapes of the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 can be regular or irregular. This application does not limit the specific shapes.

[0075] In one possible implementation, the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 each include one or more metal conductive sheets that are electrically connected to each other. Further, when the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 are two metal conductive sheets that are electrically connected to each other, the two metal conductive sheets form a V-shape after contact. Alternatively, the shapes of the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 can be regular or irregular. This application does not limit the shape of these shapes.

[0076] For ease of understanding, the conductive unit 113 and the electrical signal triggering component 152 that cooperate with each other in the above technical solution will be described below with reference to the specific structure of the image forming apparatus 100.

[0077] See Figure 8 and Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a conductive unit provided in an embodiment of this application; see also Figure 10 The embodiments provided in this application are related to Figure 8 and Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the structure of the box 150 matching the conductive unit 113 shown. Figures 8-10As shown in the embodiment of this application, the conductive unit 113 includes a conductive unit support 1130. A first conductive component 1131 and a second conductive component 1132, which are electrically isolated, are disposed on the conductive unit support 1130. The first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are arranged on the conductive unit support 1130 in a left-right direction (as shown in the figure). The electrical signal triggering component 152 includes a first conductive sheet 1521 and a second conductive sheet 1522 that are electrically connected. The first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 are arranged on the box 150 in a left-right direction. When the box 150 is installed in the receiving cavity 112 to a predetermined position, the first conductive sheet 1521 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131, and the second conductive sheet 1522 is electrically connected to the second conductive component 1132, thereby triggering the electrical signal response unit 115 to acquire a predetermined response signal. See also... Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of another conductive unit 113 provided in an embodiment of this application; see also Figure 13 The embodiments provided in this application are related to Figure 12 A partial structural schematic diagram of the box 150 matching the conductive unit 113 is shown. Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown in this embodiment, the conductive unit 113 includes a conductive unit support 1130. A first conductive component 1131 and a second conductive component 1132, which are electrically isolated, are provided on the conductive unit support 1130. The first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are arranged vertically on the conductive unit support 1130 (as shown in the figure). The electrical signal triggering component 152 includes a first conductive sheet 1521 and a second conductive sheet 1522 that are electrically connected. The first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 are arranged vertically on the box 150. When the box 150 is installed in the receiving cavity 112 to a predetermined position, the first conductive sheet 1521 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131, and the second conductive sheet 1522 is electrically connected to the second conductive component 1132, thereby triggering the electrical signal response unit 115 to acquire a predetermined response signal.

[0078] It should be pointed out that, Figures 8-13This is merely an illustrative description of the specific structure of the conductive unit 113 and the electrical signal triggering component 152 in this application, and should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this application. Those skilled in the art should understand that the conductive unit 113 and the electrical signal triggering component 152 can also be configured with other shapes or structures; however, as long as the condition that "when the box 150 is installed in the receiving cavity 112 at a predetermined position, the electrical signal triggering component 152 is electrically connected to the conductive unit 113, and triggers the electrical signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal" is met, it should fall within the scope of protection of this application.

[0079] In one possible implementation, the assembly unit 151 on the cartridge 150 and the mating unit 114 on the image forming apparatus body 110 can employ mutually mating groove and protrusion structures. For example, in Figures 8-10 In the assembly unit 151 on the box 150, there are two first protrusions 1511, and a first conductive sheet 1521 and a second conductive sheet 1522 are respectively disposed on the two first protrusions 1511. Correspondingly, the mating unit 114 on the image forming apparatus body 110 includes two second grooves 1141 that match the two first protrusions 1511, and a first conductive component 1131 and a second conductive component 1132 are respectively disposed on the two second grooves 1141. Through the mating of the second grooves 1141 and the first protrusions 1511, the box 150 can be installed in the receiving cavity 112 to a predetermined position. After the box 150 is installed in the receiving cavity 112 to the predetermined position, the first conductive sheet 1521 and the first conductive component 1131 are electrically connected, and the second conductive sheet 1522 and the second conductive component 1132 are electrically connected, thereby triggering the electrical signal response unit 115 to acquire a predetermined response signal.

[0080] See Figure 14 This is a structural block diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 14 As shown, the embodiments of this application are in Figure 1 In addition to the above, the frame 111 is also provided with a protective component 117. This protective component 117 is used to cover at least a portion of the conductive unit 113 when the box 150 is not installed in the predetermined position in the receiving cavity 112, so as to protect the conductive unit 113 from damage by external forces. Furthermore, in order to improve the protective effect of the protective component 117 on the conductive unit 113, when the box 150 is not installed in the predetermined position in the receiving cavity 112, the protective component 117 can cover the entire area of ​​the conductive unit 113 to achieve comprehensive protection of the conductive unit 113.

[0081] Corresponding to the protective component 117, the box 150 is also provided with a pushing component 153. When the box 150 is installed in the receiving cavity 112 to a predetermined position, the pushing component 153 can trigger the protective component 117 to release the cover of the conductive unit 113, thereby making the electrical signal triggering component 152 electrically connected to the conductive unit 113 and triggering the electrical signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal.

[0082] Please continue reading. Figure 8 and Figure 9 In this embodiment, the protective component 117 includes a blocking member and an elastic member 1173 (e.g., a spring), wherein the blocking member includes a blocking portion 1171 and a mating portion 1172. The blocking portion 1171 is used to cover at least a portion of the conductive unit 113 under the elastic force of the elastic member 1173 when the box 150 is not installed in the predetermined position in the receiving cavity 112.

[0083] Specifically, one end of the elastic member 1173 abuts against the conductive unit support 1130, and the other end of the elastic member 1173 abuts against the blocking member. When no other external force is applied, the elastic member 1173 covers at least a portion of the conductive unit 113 under the elastic force of the elastic member 1173. In this embodiment, since the conductive unit 113 includes two conductive components (a first conductive component 1131 and a second conductive component 1132), the blocking member includes two blocking portions 1171 to cover the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 respectively, such as... Figure 8 The state shown.

[0084] Please continue reading. Figure 10 and Figure 11 ,and Figure 8 and Figure 9 Corresponding to the protective component 117, in this embodiment, the pushing member 153 includes an inclined portion 1531, which matches the mating portion 1172. When the box 150 is installed in the receiving cavity 112 to a predetermined position, the inclined portion 1531 can push the mating portion 1172, thereby causing the blocking portion 1171 to move, thus releasing the blocking portion 1171 from covering the conductive unit 113.

[0085] Specifically, the inclined portion 1531 can be an inclined rib provided on the housing 1500 of the box 150. During the process of the box 150 being inserted into the receiving cavity 112, the width of the inclined rib gradually increases, thereby pushing the mating portion 1172, causing the elastic member 1173 to be further compressed, and causing the blocking portion 1171 to gradually release the cover of the conductive unit 113.

[0086] Preferably, the housing 150 is detachably mounted on the image forming apparatus body 110. The image forming apparatus body 110 includes a protective member 117 for protecting the conductive unit 113. When the housing 150 is not mounted on the image forming apparatus body 110, the protective member 117 is in a first position to protect the conductive unit 113. The housing 150 includes a housing and a pusher 153. The pusher 153 is mounted on the housing and includes an inclined portion 1531. The inclined portion 1531 is configured to force the protective member 117 to move from the first position to a second position during the displacement process of the housing 150 in the image forming apparatus when it is mounted to a predetermined position. When the protective member 117 is in the second position, it releases the protection of the conductive unit 113, thereby preventing interference between the housing 150 and the image forming apparatus during installation, which could damage the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 on the housing 150 or the conductive unit 113 of the image forming apparatus.

[0087] In one possible implementation, the pusher 153 further includes a limiting portion 1532, which is configured such that when the protective member 117 moves from the first position to the second position, the housing 150 continues to move to a predetermined position in the mounting direction of the image forming apparatus, and the protective member 117 is held in the second position.

[0088] In one possible implementation, the inclined portion 1531 and the restricting portion 1532 are integrally formed; or the inclined portion 1531 and the restricting portion 1532 are independent of each other.

[0089] In one possible implementation, the inclined portion 1531 includes a first end 1531a and a second end 1531b, and the limiting portion 1532 includes a third end 1532a and a fourth end 1532b. The first end 1531a of the inclined portion and the third end 1532a of the limiting portion 1532 are in contact; or, a gap is provided between the first end 1531a of the inclined portion and the third end 1532a of the limiting portion, and the gap does not affect its functional implementation.

[0090] In one possible implementation, the box 150 includes an upper surface with a first groove 154 for accommodating an assembly unit 151 and a pusher 153 on which a first conductive sheet 1521 and a second conductive sheet 1522 are mounted.

[0091] In one possible implementation, the first groove 154 is provided with a first sidewall 154a, a second sidewall 154b and a third sidewall 154c, and the pushing member 153 is disposed between the first sidewall 154a and the second sidewall 154b.

[0092] In one possible implementation, the second end 1531b of the inclined portion 1531 is connected to the first sidewall 154a of the first groove 154, and the fourth end 1532b of the limiting portion 1532 is connected to the second sidewall 154b of the first groove 154.

[0093] In one possible implementation, the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 are disposed closer to the side of the limiting portion 1532 than the inclined portion 1531 of the pusher 153.

[0094] In one possible implementation, with the bottom surface of the first groove 154 as a reference plane, the height of the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 is H1, and the height of the pushing member 153 is H2, where H1 is greater than or equal to H2, or H1 is less than H2; with the second sidewall 154b of the first groove 154 as a reference plane, the length of the first protrusion of the assembly unit 151 is L1, the length of the limiting portion 1532 of the pushing member 153 is L2, and the length of the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 is L3, where L1 is greater than or equal to L2, L1 is greater than or equal to L3, and L2 is greater than or equal to L3.

[0095] To facilitate understanding, the following description, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, explains the movement process of the inclined portion 1531 and the mating portion 1172 in cooperation with each other.

[0096] See Figures 15A-15C This is a schematic diagram illustrating the process of inserting a box into a receiving cavity, as provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 15A In the state shown, the box 150 has just been inserted into the receiving cavity 112, and the inclined portion 1531 has not yet pushed the mating portion 1172. The blocking portion 1171 covers the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132. As the box 150 is further inserted into the receiving cavity 112, the inclined portion 1531 pushes the mating portion 1172 to the right. Figures 15A-15C The direction shown in the diagram moves, thereby causing the blocking part 1171 to move to the right, exposing a portion of the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132, as shown in the diagram. Figure 15B As shown in the diagram; as the box 150 is further inserted into the receiving cavity 112, the inclined portion 1531 continues to push the mating portion 1172 to the right, thereby causing the blocking portion 1171 to continue to move to the right, fully exposing the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132. Simultaneously, the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 make contact with the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132, respectively. Figure 15C The state shown.

[0097] Please continue reading. Figure 10In one possible implementation, a first groove 154 is provided on the upper surface of the box 150, and the assembly unit 151 and the inclined portion 1531 are disposed within the first groove 154. By disposing the assembly unit 151 and the inclined portion 1531 within the groove, the capacity of the box 150 can be increased; on the other hand, damage to the assembly unit 151 from collisions with other components when it is exposed can be minimized.

[0098] Continue to refer to, for example Figure 10 As shown, the cartridge 150 in this embodiment further includes a storage device 22 for storing toner information of the cartridge 150. The storage device 22 may be a chip of the cartridge. The storage device 22 includes a substrate 221 and a plurality of communication terminals 222 disposed on the substrate. The cartridge 150 is also provided with a bracket 26, which is disposed on the housing 1500 of the cartridge 150. The width of the bracket 26 is smaller than the width of the cartridge 150. More specifically, the width of the bracket 26 is smaller than the width of the upper surface of the cartridge 150. The bracket 26 is used to mount the storage device 22. One end of the storage device 22 is fixed to the bracket by screws or rivets, and the other end of the storage device 22 is fixed by a snap-fit, thus fixing the storage device 22 to the top of the housing 1500; furthermore, the installation position of the storage device 22 is lower than the first groove 154, or the installation position of the storage device 22 is flush with the bottom surface of the first groove 154, that is, relative to the bottom surface of the first groove 154, the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 protrude more from the bottom surface of the first groove 154 than the communication terminal 222, so as to avoid the communication terminal 222 being scratched during the installation of the housing 150.

[0099] Please continue reading. Figures 2-4 In this embodiment of the application, the image forming apparatus body 110 includes four receiving cavities 112Y~K, which are used to accommodate four boxes 150Y~K of different colors. For ease of explanation, the four receiving cavities 112Y~K are referred to as "yellow receiving cavity 112Y", "magenta receiving cavity 112M", "cyan receiving cavity 112C" and "black receiving cavity 112K", respectively, and the four boxes 150Y~K are referred to as "yellow box 150Y", "magenta box 150M", "cyan box 150C" and "black box 150K", respectively. It is understandable that the cavities 112Y~K and the boxes 150Y~K correspond one-to-one. When using them, the yellow box 150Y, magenta box 150M, cyan box 150C and black box 150K need to be installed in the yellow cavity 112Y, magenta cavity 112M, cyan cavity 112C and black cavity 112K respectively.

[0100] In addition, the image forming apparatus body 110 is provided with four imaging component receiving cavities 116Y~K, which are used to accommodate four imaging components corresponding to different colors. Specifically, the four imaging component receiving cavities 116Y~K are yellow imaging component receiving cavity 116Y, magenta imaging component receiving cavity 116M, cyan imaging component receiving cavity 116C, and black imaging component receiving cavity 116K, respectively, and are used to accommodate yellow imaging component, magenta imaging component, cyan imaging component, and black imaging component.

[0101] Understandably, if the different colored cartridges 150Y~K and the different colored imaging components are all installed in the correct receiving cavities 112Y~K, then during the image formation process, the toner in cartridge 150Y~K will be supplied to the corresponding colored imaging component, thus completing the image formation operation. However, in the prior art, to reduce costs, cartridges 150Y~K of different colors are usually set to the same structure according to a standardized processing method. Therefore, when users install multiple colored cartridges 150Y~K, the installation order may become chaotic. For example, the magenta cartridge 150M is installed in the cyan receiving cavity 112C; and the cyan cartridge 150C is installed in the magenta receiving cavity 112M. In this case, magenta toner will be supplied to the cyan imaging component; and cyan toner will be supplied to the magenta imaging component, leading to development degradation or image quality degradation, thus affecting the user experience.

[0102] To address the aforementioned issues, in one possible implementation, when multiple cartridges 150 need to be mounted on the image forming apparatus body 110, the assembly units 151 and tilting portions 1531 of these multiple cartridges 150 are positioned differently on the cartridges 150; correspondingly, the mating units 114 and mating portions 1172 within the multiple receiving cavities 112 are positioned differently on the image forming apparatus body 110. This arrangement ensures that each cartridge 150 can only be installed into a designated receiving cavity 112, preventing confusion in the installation order of cartridges 150 of different colors, which could lead to development degradation or image quality degradation.

[0103] Furthermore, when multiple boxes 150 need to be installed on the image forming apparatus body 110, each box 150 is provided with a corresponding electrical signal triggering component 152, and each receiving cavity 112 is provided with a corresponding conductive unit 113, such as... Figure 2-4 As shown. For details regarding the electrical signal triggering component 152 and the conductive unit 113, please refer to the description in the above embodiments. For the sake of brevity, they will not be repeated here.

[0104] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides a box 150.

[0105] See Figure 16 This is a structural block diagram of a box provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 16 As shown, the box 150 includes a housing 1500, and a first mounting mechanism 1551 is provided on the housing 1500. The first mounting mechanism 1551 is used to mount the assembly unit 151 shown in the above embodiment.

[0106] It should be noted that the specific details of the embodiments of this application can be found in the description of the embodiments above, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0107] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides another box 150.

[0108] See Figure 17 This is a structural block diagram of another box provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 17 As shown, the box 150 includes a housing 1500, an assembly unit 151, and a second mounting mechanism 1552. The assembly unit 151 is disposed on the housing 1500 and is used to match the mating unit 114 in the receiving cavity 112 of the image forming apparatus 100, so that the box 150 can be installed in the receiving cavity 112 to a predetermined position. The second mounting mechanism 1552 is used to install the electrical signal triggering component 152 described in the above embodiment.

[0109] It should be noted that the specific details of the embodiments of this application can be found in the description of the embodiments above, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0110] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides another box 150.

[0111] See Figure 18 This is a structural block diagram of another box provided in an embodiment of this application. The box 150 is detachably disposed on the image forming apparatus body 110. The image forming apparatus 100 includes a receiving cavity 112, a conductive unit 113, a mating unit 114, and an electrical signal response unit 115.

[0112] like Figure 18 As shown, the box 150 includes: an assembly unit 151, which is disposed on the housing 1500 and is used to mate with the mating unit 114 in the receiving cavity 112, so that the box 150 can be installed in the receiving cavity 112 to a predetermined position; and an electrical signal triggering component 152, which is disposed on the assembly unit 151 and is used to electrically connect with the conductive unit 113 when the box 150 is installed in the receiving cavity 112 to a predetermined position, and trigger the electrical signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal, the predetermined response signal being used to determine whether the installation of the box 150 meets expectations.

[0113] In one possible implementation, the predetermined response signal is either a high-level signal or a low-level signal.

[0114] In one possible implementation, the conductive unit 113 includes a first conductive component 1131 and a second conductive component 1132, wherein the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are electrically isolated when the box 150 is not installed in the predetermined position in the receiving cavity 112.

[0115] When the box 150 is installed in the receiving cavity 112 to the predetermined position, the electrical signal triggering component 152 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 respectively, triggering the electrical signal response unit 115 to obtain the predetermined response signal.

[0116] In one possible implementation, when the box 150 is installed in the receiving cavity 112 to a predetermined position, the electrical signal triggering component 152 contacts and electrically connects with the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 respectively, triggering the electrical signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal.

[0117] In one possible implementation, the electrical signal triggering component 152 includes a first conductive sheet 1521 and a second conductive sheet 1522, which are electrically connected. When the box 150 is installed in the receiving cavity 112 to a predetermined position, the first conductive sheet 1521 is used to be electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131, and the second conductive sheet 1522 is used to be electrically connected to the second conductive component 1132, so that the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are electrically connected, thereby triggering the electrical signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal.

[0118] In one possible implementation, the electrical signal triggering component 152 includes a first conductive sheet 1521 and a second conductive sheet 1522, which are electrically connected. When the box 150 is installed in the receiving cavity 112 to a predetermined position, the first conductive sheet 1521 is used to contact and be electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131, and the second conductive sheet 1522 is used to contact and be electrically connected to the second conductive component 1132, so that the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are electrically connected, thereby triggering the electrical signal response unit 115 to obtain a predetermined response signal.

[0119] In one possible implementation, the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 include a metal conductive sheet or multiple metal conductive sheets that are electrically connected to each other.

[0120] In one possible implementation, the receiving cavity 112 is further provided with a protective member 117; the protective member 117 is used to cover at least a portion of the conductive unit 113 when the box 150 is not installed in the predetermined position in the receiving cavity 112, so as to protect the conductive unit 113; the housing 1500 of the box 150 is further provided with a pushing member 153; the pushing member 153 is used to force the protective member 117 to move from the first position to the second position when the box 150 is installed in the predetermined position in the receiving cavity 112, triggering the protective member 117 to release the cover of the conductive unit 113, that is, to release the protection of the conductive unit 113.

[0121] In one possible implementation, the protective component 117 includes a blocking member and an elastic member 1173. The blocking member includes a blocking portion 1171 and a mating portion 1172. The blocking portion 1171 is used to cover at least a portion of the conductive unit 113 under the elastic force of the elastic member 1173 when the box 150 is not installed in the predetermined position in the receiving cavity 112. The pushing member 153 includes an inclined portion 1531, which matches the mating portion 1172. The inclined portion 1531 is used to push the mating portion 1172 during the process of the box 150 being installed in the predetermined position in the receiving cavity 112, thereby causing the blocking portion 1171 to move and release the blocking portion 1171 from covering the conductive unit 113.

[0122] Preferably, the housing 150 is detachably mounted on the image forming apparatus body 110. The image forming apparatus body 110 includes a protective member 117 for protecting the conductive unit 113. When the housing 150 is not mounted on the image forming apparatus body 110, the protective member 117 is in a first position to protect the conductive unit 113. The housing 150 includes a housing and a pusher 153. The pusher 153 is mounted on the housing and includes an inclined portion 1531. The inclined portion 1531 is configured to force the protective member 117 to move from the first position to a second position during the displacement process of the housing 150 in the image forming apparatus when it is mounted to a predetermined position. When the protective member 117 is in the second position, it releases the protection of the conductive unit 113, thereby preventing interference between the housing 150 and the image forming apparatus during installation, which could damage the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 on the housing 150 or the conductive unit 113 of the image forming apparatus.

[0123] In one possible implementation, the pusher 153 further includes a limiting portion 1532, which is configured such that when the protective member 117 moves from the first position to the second position, the housing 150 continues to move to a predetermined position in the mounting direction of the image forming apparatus, and the protective member 117 is held in the second position.

[0124] In one possible implementation, the inclined portion 1531 and the restricting portion 1532 are integrally formed; or the inclined portion 1531 and the restricting portion 1532 are independent of each other.

[0125] In one possible implementation, the inclined portion 1531 includes a first end 1531a and a second end 1531b, and the limiting portion 1532 includes a third end 1532a and a fourth end 1532b. The first end 1531a of the inclined portion and the third end 1532a of the limiting portion 1532 are in contact; or, a gap is provided between the first end 1531a of the inclined portion and the third end 1532a of the limiting portion, and the gap does not affect its functional implementation.

[0126] In one possible implementation, the box 150 includes an upper surface with a first groove 154 for accommodating an assembly unit 151 and a pusher 153 on which a first conductive sheet 1521 and a second conductive sheet 1522 are mounted.

[0127] In one possible implementation, the first groove 154 is provided with a first sidewall 154a, a second sidewall 154b and a third sidewall 154c, and the pushing member 153 is disposed between the first sidewall 154a and the second sidewall 154b.

[0128] In one possible implementation, the second end 1531b of the inclined portion 1531 is connected to the first sidewall 154a of the first groove 154, and the fourth end 1532b of the limiting portion 1532 is connected to the second sidewall 154b of the first groove 154.

[0129] In one possible implementation, the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 are disposed closer to the side of the limiting portion 1532 than the inclined portion 1531 of the pusher 153.

[0130] In one possible implementation, with the bottom surface of the first groove 154 as a reference plane, the height of the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 is H1, and the height of the pushing member 153 is H2, where H1 is greater than or equal to H2, or H1 is less than H2; with the second sidewall 154b of the first groove 154 as a reference plane, the length of the first protrusion of the assembly unit 151 is L1, the length of the limiting portion 1532 of the pushing member 153 is L2, and the length of the first conductive sheet 1521 and the second conductive sheet 1522 is L3, where L1 is greater than or equal to L2, L1 is greater than or equal to L3, and L2 is greater than or equal to L3.

[0131] It should be noted that the specific details of the embodiments of this application can be found in the description of the embodiments above, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0132] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides a box assembly.

[0133] See Figure 19 This is a structural block diagram of a box assembly provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 19 As shown, the box set includes multiple boxes 150.

[0134] In one possible implementation, when the cassette assembly is mounted on the image forming apparatus body 110, the multiple cassettes 150 are arranged in a row, and the assembly unit 151 and the inclined portion 1531 of the multiple cassettes 150 are positioned differently on the cassettes 150.

[0135] In addition, the image forming apparatus body 110 is provided with four imaging component receiving cavities 116Y~K, which are used to accommodate four imaging components corresponding to different colors. Specifically, the four imaging component receiving cavities 116Y~K are respectively a yellow imaging component receiving cavity 116Y, a magenta imaging component receiving cavity 116M, a cyan imaging component receiving cavity 116C, and a black imaging component receiving cavity 116K. These four imaging component receiving cavities 116Y~K are used to accommodate yellow imaging components, magenta imaging components, cyan imaging components, and black imaging components, respectively. Specifically, each imaging component 116Y~K includes a photosensitive drum, a cleaning blade, a discharge unit, a charging unit, and a developing unit, wherein the charging unit enables the surface of the photosensitive drum to be uniformly charged. The exposure unit performs exposure scanning on the photosensitive drum using a laser, so that the uniformly charged surface of the photosensitive drum carries an electrostatic latent image. The electrostatic latent image is developed by the developing unit and toner, and then transferred to the intermediate transfer belt. After the transfer is completed, a cleaning blade removes the toner residue on the surface of the photosensitive drum, and a discharge device removes the residual charge on the photosensitive drum, making the photosensitive drum ready for the next imaging.

[0136] It should also be noted that in the cartridge type shown in the embodiments of this application, a photosensitive drum, a charging roller, and a developing device for storing toner are integrated to form a cartridge, which is configured to be detachable from the body 110 of the image forming apparatus 100. Furthermore, although the cartridge has been described as an example above, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, a developing cartridge including toner and a developing device but excluding a photosensitive drum could be used. A toner cartridge excluding the roller could also be used. Alternatively, a photosensitive drum cartridge excluding the developing device and integrating a photosensitive drum and a charging roller could also be used.

[0137] It should be noted that the specific details of the embodiments of this application can be found in the description of the embodiments above, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0138] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides another image forming apparatus 100.

[0139] See Figure 20This is a structural block diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 20 As shown, the image forming apparatus 100 includes an image forming apparatus body 110 and a cartridge 150 as described in the above embodiment.

[0140] It should be noted that the specific details of the embodiments of this application can be found in the description of the embodiments above, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0141] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides another image forming apparatus 100.

[0142] See Figure 21 This is a structural block diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 21 As shown, the image forming apparatus 100 includes an image forming apparatus body 110 and a cassette assembly as described in the above embodiments.

[0143] It should be noted that the specific details of the embodiments of this application can be found in the description of the embodiments above, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0144] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides another image forming apparatus 100.

[0145] See Figure 22 This is a structural block diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 22 As shown, the image forming apparatus 100 includes: an image forming apparatus body 110, the image forming apparatus body 110 including a frame 111 and a receiving cavity 112, the receiving cavity 112 for receiving a cartridge 150, and the receiving cavity 112 is provided with a mating unit 114, the mating unit 114 being provided with a first conductive component 1131 and a second conductive component 1132; and an electrical signal response unit 115, the electrical signal response unit 115 being electrically connected to the first conductive component 1131, for acquiring a predetermined response signal when the cartridge 150 is installed in a predetermined position in the receiving cavity 112, and determining whether the installation of the cartridge 150 meets expectations based on the predetermined response signal.

[0146] In one possible implementation, when the box 150 is not installed in the predetermined position in the receiving cavity 112, the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are in an electrically isolated state; when the box 150 is installed in the predetermined position in the receiving cavity 112, the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 are in an electrically connected state, and the electrical signal response unit 115 is used to acquire a predetermined response signal and determine whether the installation of the box 150 meets expectations based on the predetermined response signal.

[0147] In one possible implementation, the frame 111 includes a top plate and a side plate arranged adjacent to each other, a first conductive component 1131 and a second conductive component 1132 are disposed on the top plate, and an electrical signal response unit 115 is disposed on the side plate.

[0148] In one possible implementation, the receiving cavity 112 is further provided with a protective component 117. The protective component 117 includes a blocking member, which includes a blocking part 1171 and a mating part 1172. The blocking part 1171 is used to cover at least a portion of the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132 when the box 150 is not installed in the predetermined position of the receiving cavity 112. The mating part 1172 is used to push the box 150 by the inclined part 1531 on the box 150 during the process of the box 150 being installed in the predetermined position in the receiving cavity 112. The mating part 1172 is pushed, thereby driving the blocking part 1171 to move, so that the blocking part 1171 opens.

[0149] In one possible implementation, the protective component 117 further includes an elastic element 1173. When the box 150 is installed in the receiving cavity 112 to a predetermined position, the elastic element 1173 is compressed during the movement of the blocking part 1171. After the box 150 is removed from the receiving cavity 112, the blocking element moves under the action of elastic force to a position covering at least a portion of the area of ​​the first conductive component 1131 and the second conductive component 1132.

[0150] It should be noted that the specific details of the embodiments of this application can be found in the description of the embodiments above, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0151] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides another image forming apparatus 100.

[0152] See Figure 23 This is a structural block diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 23 As shown, the image forming apparatus 100 includes an electrical signal response unit 115, which is used to perform the detection method described in the above method embodiments.

[0153] It should be noted that the specific details of the embodiments of this application can be found in the description of the embodiments above, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0154] To facilitate understanding, the following description uses a specific structure of an image forming apparatus as an example to illustrate the graphic forming apparatus.

[0155] See Figure 24 This is a schematic diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 24As shown, the image forming apparatus 100 is provided with four processing boxes 6Y, 6M, 6C, and 6K that generate yellow, magenta, cyan, and black toner images (referred to as Y, M, C, and K toner images). Each processing box uses Y, M, C, and K toners of different colors as an image forming matrix, but the four processing boxes have the same construction and can be replaced with a new processing box each time the toner is replenished. The processing box 6Y that generates the Y toner image is considered a representative example of the four processing boxes. Figure 24 As shown, the processing cartridge 6Y includes a drum-shaped photoconductor 1Y, a drum cleaning device 2Y, a discharger (not shown), a charging device 4Y, and a developing device 5Y. The processing cartridge 6Y is detachably mounted on the main body of the image forming apparatus 100, and these components can be replaced once. The charging device 4Y uniformly charges the surface of the photoconductor 1Y, which rotates clockwise by a drive unit (not shown). Exposure scanning is performed by a laser L, thereby causing the surface of the uniformly charged photoconductor 1Y to carry an electrostatic latent image. The electrostatic latent image is developed by the developing device 5Y using a toner on the toner image. Intermediate transfer is performed on an intermediate transfer belt 8. After the intermediate transfer process, the drum cleaning device 2Y removes the toner residue on the surface of the photoconductor 1Y. Furthermore, after cleaning, the discharger discharges the residual charge of the photoconductor 1Y. The surface of the photoconductor 1Y is initialized by discharge, which prepares it for subsequent imaging. Similarly, in the other processing cartridges 6M, 6C, and 6K, the toner images of M, C, and K are similarly formed on the photoconductors 1M, 1C, and 1K, and intermediate transfer is performed on the intermediate transfer belt 8. The exposure apparatus 7 is set... Figure 24In the lower part of each processing cartridge 6Y, 6M, 6C, and 6K shown, an exposure device 7, serving as a latent image forming unit, irradiates each photoconductor in processing cartridges 6Y, 6M, 6C, and 6K with laser L emitted based on image information. Exposure of each photoconductor by laser L is performed. Regarding the exposure, electrostatic latent images of Y, M, C, and K are formed on photoconductors 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K. Additionally, the exposure device 7 irradiates the photoconductors through two or more optical lenses and mirrors, scanning the laser (L) emitted from the light source by means of a polygonal mirror rotated by a rotary drive motor. A paper feeding unit including a paper tray 26 is provided at the bottom of the exposure device 7, in which a paper feed roller 27 and a resist roller pair 28 are provided. A large quantity of copy paper P is contained in the paper tray 26, and the paper feed roller 27 contacts the top of the copy paper P on top of the large quantity of copy paper. When the feed roller 27 rotates counterclockwise due to the drive unit (not shown), the top copy paper P is conveyed to the position between the rollers of the opposing roller pair 28. Although the opposing roller pair 28 is driven to rotate and clamp the copy paper P, the rotation drive stops immediately. The copy paper P is then conveyed by the opposing roller pair 28 to the secondary transfer clamping area at the appropriate time. In the above-described paper feeding unit, the combination of the feed roller 27 and the opposing roller pair 28 (timing roller pair) is used to construct the conveying unit. This conveying unit conveys the copy paper P from the paper tray 26 to the secondary transfer clamping area. An intermediate transfer unit 15, which performs intermediate image transfer using an annular intermediate transfer belt 8 (intermediate transfer medium), is provided on the upper part of each processing tray 6Y, 6M, 6C, and 6K. This intermediate transfer unit 15 is equipped with four primary transfer bias rollers 9Y, 9M, 9C, and 9K, a cleaning device 10, and the intermediate transfer belt 8. In addition, the intermediate transfer unit 15 includes a secondary transfer support roller 12, a cleaning support roller 13, a tension roller, etc. As the intermediate transfer belt 8 rotates counterclockwise, a circular transfer is performed driven by the rotation of at least one of these three rollers. Primary transfer bias rollers 9Y, 9M, 9C, and 9K place the intermediate transfer belt 8, which is undergoing circular transfer, between photoconductors 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K in such a manner that they form primary transfer nip zones. In this transfer, the toner presses the transfer bias elements of opposite polarity (e.g., positive) against the back side of the intermediate transfer belt 8 (the inner surface of the ring). All rollers except the primary transfer bias rollers 9Y, 9M, 9C, and 9K are electrically grounded. During the circular transfer, the intermediate transfer belt 8 undergoes a process of passing through the Y, M, C, and K primary transfer nip zones one by one, and the Y, M, C, and K toner images of photoconductors 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K are superimposed and transferred in the first stage. Therefore, a toner image of four colors (referred to as a 4-color toner image) is formed on the intermediate transfer belt 8. As the circular transfer proceeds, the intermediate transfer belt 8 undergoes a process of passing through the Y, M, C, and K transfer clamping zones one by one, and the Y, M, C, and K toner images of the photoconductors 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K are superimposed and transferred in the first stage.Therefore, a toner image with four superimposed colors (referred to as a 4-color toner image) is formed on the intermediate transfer belt 8. In the secondary transfer clamping zone, it is inserted between the intermediate transfer belt 8 and the secondary transfer roller 19, where the copy paper P undergoes a forward surface transfer, and the aforementioned opposing roller pair 28 is conveyed in the opposite direction. As the copy paper P exiting the secondary transfer clamping zone passes between the rollers of the fixing device 20, the surface-transferred 4-color toner image is fixed using heat and pressure. Subsequently, the copy paper P is conveyed through the discharge roller pair 29 and discharged outside the image forming apparatus. A stacking portion 30 is provided on the upper surface of the main part of the image forming apparatus. The copy papers P discharged from the discharge roller pair 29 to the outside of the image forming apparatus are stacked one by one on the stacking portion 30.

[0156] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides a computer program product containing executable instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform some or all of the steps in the above method embodiments.

[0157] In this application embodiment, "at least one" refers to one or more, and "more than one" refers to two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent the existence of A alone, the simultaneous existence of A and B, or the existence of B alone. A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship. "At least one of the following" and similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, and c can represent: a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, or abc, where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0158] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps described in the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented using electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of electronic hardware and software. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0159] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0160] In the several embodiments provided in this application, any function, if implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or a part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0161] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the protection scope of this application. The protection scope of this application should be determined by the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A cartridge removably provided on an image forming apparatus body, characterized by comprising: The image forming apparatus body includes a protective component for protecting the conductive unit. When the housing is not installed on the image forming apparatus body, the protective component is in a first position to protect the conductive unit. The housing includes: case; A pusher, wherein the pusher is disposed on the housing; The pushing member includes an inclined portion configured to force a protective component in the image forming apparatus to move from a first position to a second position during the displacement of the cartridge in the image forming apparatus to a predetermined position, thereby releasing the protection of the conductive unit. The box includes an upper surface, and the upper surface is provided with a first groove for accommodating an assembly unit on which a first conductive sheet and a second conductive sheet are installed, and the pusher. The first groove has a first sidewall, a second sidewall, and a third sidewall, and the pushing member is disposed between the first sidewall and the second sidewall; The pusher also includes a limiting portion configured such that when the protective member moves to the second position, the cartridge continues to move to a predetermined position in the mounting direction of the image forming apparatus, thereby limiting the protective member to remain in the second position. With the second sidewall of the first groove as a reference plane, the length of the first protrusion of the assembly unit is L1, and the length of the limiting part is L2, where L1 ≥ L2.

2. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein, The inclined portion and the restrictive portion are integrally formed; Alternatively, the inclined portion and the restrictive portion are independent of each other.

3. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein, The inclined portion includes a first end and a second end, and the limiting portion includes a third end and a fourth end, with the first end and the third end in contact. Alternatively, a gap may be provided between the first end and the third end.

4. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein, The protective component includes a blocking member and an elastic member. The blocking member includes a blocking portion and a mating portion. The blocking portion is used to cover at least a portion of the conductive unit under the elastic force of the elastic member when the cartridge is not installed in the predetermined position in the image forming apparatus. The inclined portion of the pusher matches the mating portion. The inclined portion is used to push the mating portion when the box is installed in a predetermined position in the pattern forming apparatus, thereby moving the blocking portion and releasing the blocking portion from protecting the conductive unit.

5. The cartridge of claim 3, wherein, The second end of the inclined portion is connected to the first sidewall, and the fourth end of the restrictive portion is connected to the second sidewall.

6. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein, Compared to the inclined portion, the first conductive sheet and the second conductive sheet are disposed closer to one side of the restrictive portion.

7. A cartridge set removably mounted on a body of an image forming apparatus, characterized by comprising: It includes multiple boxes as described in any one of claims 1-6.

8. The cassette set of claim 7, wherein, When the cassette assembly is mounted on the image forming apparatus body, the plurality of cassettes are arranged in a row, and the assembly units and pushers of the plurality of cassettes are positioned differently on the cassettes.

9. An image forming apparatus characterized by comprising: It includes a body and a box as described in any one of claims 1-6, or a body and a box assembly as described in any one of claims 7-8.

Images