An ink replenishment container, an ink tank, and an ink replenishment system

Abstract

This application provides an ink refill container, an ink tank, and an ink refill system. The ink refill container includes a container body and an ink outlet flow path. The container body stores ink, and the ink outlet flow path is installed on the container body. The ink outlet flow path has an ink outflow portion, and a positioning portion is located on the side of the ink outflow portion away from the container body. When the ink refill container is installed on the ink tank, the positioning portion abuts against a positioning mating portion on the ink tank. In this application, when the ink refill container is inverted and inserted into the ink tank, the positioning portion abuts against the positioning mating portion, preventing the ink outlet flow path from further inserting into the ink inlet flow path, thereby limiting the depth of the ink supply needle inserted into the ink outlet flow path. Simultaneously, it provides support for the ink refill container, preventing the ink refill container from wobbling relative to the ink supply needle and causing ink leakage, thus enabling the ink refill container to supply ink to the ink tank in a stable state.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202422270758.9, filed on September 14, 2024, entitled "Ink Refill System, Ink Can and Ink Refill Container", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of printing technology, and in particular to an ink refill container, ink can, and ink refill system. Background Technology

[0003] Inkjet printers are widely used as one of the important devices for office automation and home printing.

[0004] In existing technology, inkjet printers have an internal ink tank that continuously supplies ink to the printer. When the ink in the tank is nearly depleted, the printer will prompt the user to refill. The user inserts the ink refill container into the ink tank, causing the ink supply needles on the ink tank to insert into the ink outlet of the refill container, allowing ink to flow into the ink tank. However, in existing technology, the ink refill container tends to wobble relative to the ink supply needles after connection, leading to ink leakage. Utility Model Content

[0005] This application provides an ink refill container, ink canister, and ink refill system to solve the problem of ink leakage caused by the ink refill container easily shaking relative to the ink supply needle.

[0006] This application provides an ink refill container, which is detachably mounted on an ink tank for supplying ink to the ink tank. It includes a container body and an ink outlet flow path. The container body stores ink, and the ink outlet flow path is mounted on the container body. The ink outlet flow path has an ink outflow portion, and a positioning portion is located on the side of the ink outflow portion away from the container body. When the ink refill container is mounted on the ink tank, the positioning portion engages with a positioning mating portion on the ink tank.

[0007] In one possible design, the ink outlet flow path has a protrusion on the side away from the container body, and the positioning part is located on the outer periphery of the protrusion, the protrusion being further away from the container body than the positioning part.

[0008] In one possible design, the ink refill container further includes a valve component, the ink outlet has an ink outlet, and the valve component is mounted on the ink outlet; along the axial direction of the ink refill container, the end face of the valve component away from the container body is flush with the end face of the protrusion away from the container body.

[0009] In one possible design, when viewed along the axial direction perpendicular to the ink refill container, the center of the protrusion coincides with the center of the ink outlet.

[0010] In one possible design, the positioning part and the protrusion have a connecting surface that is inclined relative to the axial direction of the ink refill container.

[0011] This application provides an ink canister for use with the ink refill container described above. The ink canister includes an ink inlet flow path and a positioning engagement part, which engages with the positioning part to position the ink refill container.

[0012] In one possible design, the ink inlet flow path has a first recess, and the positioning mating part is a protrusion disposed in the first recess.

[0013] In one possible design, multiple positioning mating portions are spaced apart circumferentially along the first recess.

[0014] In one possible design, the surface of the positioning mating part facing the axis of the first recess is an arc surface.

[0015] This application provides an ink refilling system, including the ink refilling container and the ink canister described above.

[0016] In this application, when the ink refill container is inserted upside down into the ink tank, the positioning part and the positioning mating part abut against each other, preventing the ink outlet flow path part from further inserting into the ink inlet flow path part, thereby limiting the depth of the ink supply needle inserted into the ink outlet flow path part, while providing support for the ink refill container, preventing the ink refill container from shaking relative to the ink supply needle and causing ink leakage, so that the ink refill container can supply ink to the ink tank in a stable state.

[0017] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are merely exemplary and do not limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the ink can provided in this application in Embodiment 1;

[0019] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A top view of the ink canister in the middle;

[0020] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the ink canister in the middle;

[0021] Figure 4 for Figure 3A magnified view of region I in the image;

[0022] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the structure of the ink refill container provided in this application in Embodiment 1;

[0023] Figure 6 for Figure 5 Exploded view of the ink refill container;

[0024] Figure 7 for Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the structure of the ink refill container with the cap removed;

[0025] Figure 8 for Figure 7 A partial cross-sectional view of the ink refill container in the middle;

[0026] Figure 9 for Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the main body of the container;

[0027] Figure 10 for Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the ink outlet flow path section in the middle;

[0028] Figure 11 for Figure 10 Another structural schematic diagram of the ink outlet flow path section in the ink;

[0029] Figure 12 for Figure 10 Cross-sectional view of the ink outlet flow path section in the middle;

[0030] Figure 13 for Figure 12 A magnified view of region II in the image;

[0031] Figure 14 for Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the valve component in the diagram;

[0032] Figure 15 for Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the valve component in the diagram;

[0033] Figure 16 for Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the valve component with the ink absorber installed;

[0034] Figure 17 for Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of the cover component;

[0035] Figure 18 for Figure 17 Another structural diagram of the cover component;

[0036] Figure 19 for Figure 18 A cross-sectional view of the cover component;

[0037] Figure 20 for Figure 5 A partial cross-sectional view of the ink refill container in the middle;

[0038] Figure 21 for Figure 1 Ink canister and Figure 5 Cross-sectional view of the part where the ink refill container fits;

[0039] Figure 22 for Figure 5 The ink refill container in the middle is detached. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the ink can process in the ink tank;

[0040] Figure 23 for Figure 5 The ink refill container in the middle is detached. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the ink can process in the ink tank;

[0041] Figure 24 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the ink reservoir in variant example 1;

[0042] Figure 25 for Figure 24 A cross-sectional view of the ink canister in the middle;

[0043] Figure 26 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the ink reservoir in variant example 2;

[0044] Figure 27 for Figure 26 A cross-sectional view of the ink canister in the middle;

[0045] Figure 28 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the ink reservoir in variant example 3;

[0046] Figure 29 for Figure 28 A cross-sectional view of the ink canister in the middle;

[0047] Figure 30 A schematic diagram of the ink inlet flow path and support of the ink can provided in this application in Embodiment 2;

[0048] Figure 31 for Figure 30 Cross-sectional view of the ink inlet flow path and support component;

[0049] Figure 32 for Figure 30 A schematic diagram of the ink inlet flow path and support components in the middle;

[0050] Figure 33 for Figure 30 Cross-sectional view of the ink inlet flow path in the middle;

[0051] Figure 34 A schematic diagram of the structure of the ink refill container provided in this application in Embodiment 2;

[0052] Figure 35 for Figure 34 Exploded view of the ink refill container;

[0053] Figure 36 for Figure 35 A schematic diagram of the ink outlet flow path section in the middle;

[0054] Figure 37 for Figure 30 Ink inlet flow path, support components and Figure 36 A cross-sectional view of the ink outlet flow path section in the middle;

[0055] Figure 38 for Figure 30 A schematic diagram of the ink inlet flow path and support component in modified example 1;

[0056] Figure 39 for Figure 38 Cross-sectional view of the ink inlet flow path and support component;

[0057] Figure 40 for Figure 30 A schematic diagram of the ink inlet flow path and support component in modified example 2;

[0058] Figure 41 for Figure 40 Cross-sectional view of the ink inlet flow path and support component;

[0059] Figure 42 for Figure 30 A schematic diagram of the ink inlet flow path and support component in modified example 3;

[0060] Figure 43 for Figure 42 Cross-sectional view of the ink inlet flow path and support component;

[0061] Figure 44 for Figure 30 A schematic diagram of the ink inlet flow path and support component in variant example 4;

[0062] Figure 45 for Figure 44 Cross-sectional view of the ink inlet flow path and support component;

[0063] Figure 46 for Figure 44Exploded view of the ink inlet flow path and support components;

[0064] Figure 47 A schematic diagram of the ink outlet flow path of the ink refill container provided in this application in Embodiment 3;

[0065] Figure 48 for Figure 47 Cross-sectional view of the ink outlet flow path section in the middle;

[0066] Figure 49 for Figure 47 A cross-sectional view of the ink outlet flow path, ink inlet flow path, and support component in the middle;

[0067] Figure 50 This is a cross-sectional view of the ink refill container and ink tank in Example 3.

[0068] Figure 51 A schematic diagram of the ink outlet flow path of the ink refill container provided in this application in Embodiment 4;

[0069] Figure 52 A schematic diagram of the ink inlet flow path of the ink can provided in this application in Embodiment 4, wherein the ink supply needle is not shown;

[0070] Figure 53 A cross-sectional view showing the ink refill container and ink can fitting together, as provided in this application;

[0071] Figure 54 for Figure 53 A magnified view of a portion of region II.

[0072] Figure label:

[0073] 10-Ink reservoir; 11-Ink storage chamber; 12-Ink inlet flow path; 13-First recess; 14-Ink supply needle; 14a-First flow path; 14a1-Third convex part; 14a2-Third recess; 14b1-Fourth convex part; 14b2-Fourth recess; 14b-Second flow path; 14c-Separator; 14c1-Separator wall; 14d-Space; 14d1-Small cylindrical part; 14d2-Large cylindrical part; 14e-Groove; 15-First engaging part; 16-Groove; 17-Support member; 17a-Small diameter part; 17b-Large diameter part; 18-Guiding mating part; 19-Positioning mating part.

[0074] 100 - Ink refill container; 110 - Container body; 111 - Open end; 111a - Opening; 112 - First external thread; 113 - First protrusion; 114 - Recess; 120 - Ink outlet flow path; 121 - Ink outlet; 122 - First connecting part; 122a - First internal thread; 122b - Second protrusion; 123 - Ink outlet; 123a - Guide part; 123b - First engaging part; 123c - Concave-convex part; 123c1 - Second recess; 123d - Body part; 123e - Spacing groove; 123f - Protrusion; 123g - Positioning part; 12 4-Second external thread; 125-Locking pin; 125a-Locking surface; 125b-Annular protrusion; 125c-First guide surface; 126-Support part; 127-Snap-fit ​​part; 128-Abutting part; 129-Limiting part; 129a-Second guide surface; 129b-Abutting surface; 130-Cover part; 131-Grabbing part; 132-Second internal thread; 133-Protrusion; 140-Gasket; 150-Valve part; 151-Abutted part; 152-Rib; 152a-Gap; 153-Valve plate; 154-Annular groove; 155-Joint part; 160-Ink absorber.

[0075] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this article generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0080] It should be noted that the directional terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," and "right" described in the embodiments of this application are used to describe the angles shown in the accompanying drawings and should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this application. Furthermore, in the context, it should be understood that when it is mentioned that an element is connected "upper" or "lower" to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element "upper" or "lower," or indirectly connected to the other element "upper" or "lower" through an intermediate element.

[0081] Example 1

[0082] This application provides an ink replenishment system, which includes an ink tank and an ink replenishment container. The ink in the ink replenishment container can be added to the ink tank for printing on a recording medium.

[0083] An inkjet printer (not shown in the figure) includes an ink tank that contains ink and is connected to the ink tubes of the printer. This allows ink to be supplied from the ink tank to the print head, enabling inkjet printing on a recording medium (such as paper). The ink tank can be located externally or internally to the inkjet printer. There can be one or more ink tanks, and multiple ink tanks can be arranged along the width of the inkjet printer. Multiple ink tanks can each contain inks of different colors; for example, multiple ink tanks can each contain black ink, yellow ink, magenta ink, and cyan ink. Alternatively, multiple ink tanks can also contain ink of the same color.

[0084] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the ink tank 10 has an ink storage cavity 11 for storing ink from the ink refill container. The upper end of the ink storage cavity 11 is provided with an ink inlet flow path 12. At least part of the outer peripheral wall of the ink inlet flow path 12 is provided with a guide fitting part 18 in the shape of a plane or an arc, and the rest is provided in the shape of a circle. The ink inlet flow path 12 has a first recess 13 formed on the top of the ink tank, through which the ink needle 14 protrudes outward from the first recess 13. It can be higher than the top surface of the first recess 13 or lower than the bottom surface of the first recess 13, so that the ink needle 14 can communicate with the ink storage cavity 11.

[0085] like Figure 3 As shown, the ink supply needle 14 has two flow paths, one of which is an ink flow path and the other is an air flow path. The two flow paths are respectively connected to the internal space of the ink tank. Specifically, the two flow paths are the first flow path 14a and the second flow path 14b. If the first flow path 14a is an ink flow path, the second flow path 14b is an air flow path. The two flow paths are separated by a spacer 14c. The top of the spacer 14c protrudes and is higher than the top surface of the two flow paths.

[0086] like Figure 4 As shown, a support member 17 is provided at the top of the spacer member 14c of the ink supply needle 14. The support member 17 is shaped like an inverted cone, that is, smaller at the top and larger at the bottom. The top of the support member 17 has an end face, which can be set as a plane or a non-plane. A gradually narrowing region is formed from the upper end of the outer peripheral wall of the ink supply needle 14 to the end face of the support member 17. Here, the support member 17 is preferably fixedly connected to the spacer member 14c of the ink supply needle 14, such as by integral molding.

[0087] In some other embodiments, the support member 17 can also be detachably connected to the spacer member 14c, that is, the support member 17 is a separate component that can be fitted onto the top of the spacer member 14c.

[0088] Furthermore, a first engaging portion 15 is provided on the inner peripheral wall of the first recess 13. The first engaging portion 15 protrudes from the inner peripheral wall of the first recess 13, and its shape can be a protrusion, a block, or a rib. In other embodiments, the first engaging portion 15 can also be recessed into the inner peripheral wall to form a groove shape. In this embodiment, the positions of the first engaging portions 15 on the ink cans 10 storing different colored inks are different, which facilitates identification and filling. The number of first engaging portions 15 is not fixed; it can be one or more. When two first engaging portions 15 are provided in the first recess 13, the spacing between the first engaging portions 15 on the ink cans 10 storing different colored inks is different, which facilitates identification and prevents misinsertion.

[0089] Furthermore, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, a groove 16 is provided on the bottom surface of the first recess 13. The groove 16 is recessed inward from the bottom surface of the first recess 13 and is used to collect leaked ink to prevent external contamination. The groove 16 can be arranged in a complete ring at the bottom of the first recess 13, or it can be arranged in a spaced-out ring. It is located between the ink supply needle 14 and the inner peripheral wall of the first recess 13. It can be connected to the ink storage cavity 11 in the ink tank 10 or not. When the groove 16 is connected to the ink storage cavity 11 in the ink tank 10, a filter screen can be placed below the groove 16. If there is ink in the groove 16, the ink can be filtered through the filter screen and replenished into the ink tank 10 for use, realizing the recycling and rational use of ink, while also preventing impurities from flowing in and ensuring the quality of the ink in the ink storage cavity 11.

[0090] In some other implementations, a filter screen may be omitted, and absorbent cotton may be used instead, or other absorbent materials may be selected.

[0091] like Figure 5As shown, an ink refill container 100 for refilling ink into the ink container 10 described above includes a container body 110, an ink outlet flow path 120, and a cap part 130. The ink refill container 100 can be an ink bottle, ink bag, ink canister, etc.; an ink bottle will be used as an example of an ink refill container 100 for illustration.

[0092] like Figure 6 and Figure 9 As shown, the container body 110 has an internal space for storing ink. Taking an ink bottle as an example, the container body 110 is the bottle body, which is generally cylindrical, but can also be flat or a quadrangular prism or other shapes. The bottle body can be made of a flexible material that can be deformed by compression, or it can be made of other materials that cannot be deformed by compression. A recessed portion 114 is provided near the bottom of the bottle body. The recessed portion 114 increases the structural strength of the bottle body, making it less prone to breakage and less likely to deform when holding the ink bottle. Furthermore, when the ink bottle is held upside down, the recessed portion 114 can also reduce the risk of the bottle slipping from the user's hand, making the ink bottle easier to grasp. At the same time, when a label is attached to the outside of the ink refill container 100, the recessed portion 114 is also used to position the label, making it easier to stick the label.

[0093] like Figure 9 As shown, one end of the bottle body is an open end 111, the diameter of the open end 111 is smaller than the diameter of the bottle body, and the end of the open end 111 away from the bottle body is provided with an opening 111a, through which the ink in the bottle body flows out; a first external thread 112 is also provided on the outer peripheral wall of the open end 111, and the first external thread 112 is provided at the lower end of the opening 111a.

[0094] A first protrusion 113 is provided between the bottle body and the opening end 111. The first protrusion 113 protrudes from the outer peripheral wall of the connection between the two, or it can protrude from the outer peripheral wall of one of the two. The first protrusion 113 is located further away from the opening 111a than the first external thread 112. There can be one or more first protrusions 113, which is not limited here.

[0095] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the ink outlet flow path 120 is provided at the opening end 111 of the container body 110 (bottle body), and communicates with the container body 110 through the opening 111a. The ink in the container body 110 flows out through the ink outlet flow path 120.

[0096] Specifically, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, the ink outlet flow path 120 has a first connecting part 122 and an ink outlet part 123. The first connecting part 122 is closer to the container body part 110 than the ink outlet part 123. The first connecting part 122 is connected to the opening end 111 of the container body part 110.

[0097] like Figure 8 Figure 9 and Figure 11 As shown, the first connecting part 122 is provided with a first internal thread 122a, and the first connecting part 122 and the container body part 110 are connected by the first internal thread 122a and the first external thread 112 thread engagement.

[0098] like Figure 6 and Figure 8 As shown, to prevent ink from flowing out of the container body 110 through the opening 111a of the opening end 111, a gasket 140 is provided at the connection between the ink outlet flow path 120 and the opening end 111 to seal the connection between the ink outlet flow path 120 and the container body 110 and prevent ink leakage. Alternatively, the ink outlet flow path 120 and the container body 110 can be connected by thread, snap-fit ​​connection, adhesive bonding, welding (spot welding), or even a one-piece molded structure.

[0099] like Figure 8 and Figure 11 As shown, a second protrusion 122b protrudes from the inner peripheral wall of the first connecting portion 122 near the bottom opening. The second protrusion 122b is closer to the bottom opening of the first connecting portion 122 than the first internal thread 122a. The second protrusion 122b is used to engage with the first protrusion 113 mentioned above to prevent the ink outlet flow path portion 120 from opening in reverse rotation with the container body portion 110, thus strengthening the connection and sealing between the two. The second protrusion 122b can be configured to cooperate with the first protrusion 113, that is, the second protrusion 122b engages and abuts with the first protrusion 113; or one second protrusion 122b can correspond to two first protrusions 113, that is, the second protrusion 122b engages in the recess between the two first protrusions 113.

[0100] like Figure 8 and Figure 10 As shown, the ink outlet 123 is tubular, and the interior of the ink outlet 123 is an ink channel that connects to the main body of the container 110. An ink outlet 121 is provided at the end of the ink outlet 123 that is away from the main body of the container 110.

[0101] In this embodiment, in order to enable the ink refill container 100 to be correctly connected to the ink inlet flow path 12 on the ink tank 10, a first engaging portion 123b is provided on the outer peripheral wall of the ink outlet 123 near the ink outlet 121. The first engaging portion 123b is a recess formed by indentation on the outer peripheral wall, which can be identified and connected with the first engaging portion 15 in the ink inlet flow path 12. The shape and number of the first engaging portion 123b can be set according to the shape and number of the first engaging portion 15 in the ink tank 10, as long as the identification and connection between the two is satisfied.

[0102] In addition, a guide portion 123a is provided on the outer peripheral wall of the ink outlet 123. The guide portion 123a extends from the end near the ink outlet 121 toward the plane near the first connecting portion 122. It can match the guide mating portion 18 on the ink tank 10, thereby playing a guiding role and facilitating user identification and insertion. The guide portion 123a and the first engaging portion 123b are located at different positions on the outer peripheral wall of the ink outlet 123.

[0103] Specifically, the guide portion 123a can be a cross-section formed by a single plane or curved surface, a concave portion with a triangular cross-section formed by two planes or curved surfaces, or a concave portion with a quadrilateral cross-section formed by three planes or curved surfaces. Understandably, the guide portion 123a can also be a concave portion with a multi-faceted cross-section formed by more planes or curved surfaces.

[0104] The positions, quantities, and structures of the guide portion 123a and / or the first engaging portion 123b of the ink refill container 100 storing different colored inks are different, and the positions, quantities, and structures of the guide engagement portion 18 and / or the first engaging portion 15 on the ink canister 10 storing different colored inks are also different.

[0105] Optionally, the guide portion 123a may be positioned differently on the ink outlet portion 123; optionally, the structure of the guide portion 123a may be different (e.g., different sizes); optionally, the first engaging portion 123b may be positioned differently on the ink outlet portion 123; optionally, the structure of the first engaging portion 123b may be different (e.g., different sizes); optionally, the guide portion 123a and the first engaging portion 123b may be positioned differently on the ink outlet portion 123; optionally, the structure of the guide portion 123a and the first engaging portion 123b may be different (e.g., different sizes); optionally, the position of the guide portion 123a on the ink outlet portion 123 may be different, and the structure of the first engaging portion 123b may be different (e.g., different sizes); optionally, the structure of the guide portion 123a may be different (e.g., different sizes), and the position of the first engaging portion 123b on the ink outlet portion 123 may be different.

[0106] Specifically, the first engaging portion 123b can be a cross-section formed by a single plane or curved surface, a concave portion with a triangular cross-section formed by two planes or curved surfaces, or a concave portion with a quadrilateral cross-section formed by three planes or curved surfaces. Understandably, the first engaging portion 123b can also be a concave portion with a multi-dimensional cross-section formed by more planes or curved surfaces.

[0107] like Figure 53 As shown, the ink refill container 100 is tilted downwards and docks with the ink tank 10. When the guide part 123a is located below the ink outflow part 123, the guide part 123a can be supported by the ink tank 10, making the ink refill container 100 less likely to shake relative to the ink tank 10. This results in better installation stability of the ink refill container 100 and a better user experience.

[0108] like Figure 10 As shown, the guide portion 123a and the first engaging portion 123b extend along the axial direction of the ink replenishment container 100. In the axial direction of the ink replenishment container 100, the length of the guide portion 123a is equal to the length of the first engaging portion 123b, allowing the guide portion 123a and the first engaging portion 123b to be processed synchronously, thereby facilitating the manufacturing of the ink inlet flow path portion 12. In another embodiment, in the axial direction of the ink replenishment container 100, the length of the guide portion 123a may be greater than the length of the first engaging portion 123b, or the length of the guide portion 123a may be less than the length of the first engaging portion 123b. In some other embodiments, the guide portion 123a and the first engaged portion 123b extend in a direction inclined relative to the axial direction of the ink replenishment container 100 or extend spirally. In this case, in order to ensure that the guide portion 123a and the guide engagement portion 18 cooperate smoothly while the first engaged portion 123b and the first engaged portion 15 cooperate smoothly, the extension path shapes of the guide portion 123a and the first engaged portion 123b are the same.

[0109] like Figure 10 As shown, when viewed along the axial direction of the ink refill container 100, there is a first distance between the two ends of the guide portion 123a in the horizontal direction, and a second distance between the two ends of the first engaged portion 123b in the horizontal direction. The first distance and the second distance are not equal, so that the guide portion 123a cannot cooperate with the first engaged portion 15, and the first engaged portion 123b cannot cooperate with the guide engagement portion 18, thus preventing the ink refill container 100 and the ink tank 10 from being incorrectly engaged.

[0110] Preferably, the first distance is greater than the second distance, allowing the guide portion 123a to more effectively guide the ink refill container 100 and reduce the difficulty for the user in engaging the ink tank 10. This also results in higher precision in the engagement between the first engaging portion 15 and the first engaged portion 123b, further enhancing the overall fit between the ink refill container 100 and the ink tank 10. In some other embodiments, the first distance may be smaller than the second distance. A greater difference between the first and second distances is better, allowing the user to directly and clearly determine whether the guide portion 123a is aligned with the engaging portion 18, and quickly identify the direction in which the ink refill container 100 is inserted into the ink tank 10, without needing to adjust or rotate the ink refill container 100.

[0111] like Figure 10 As shown, there is a third distance between the guide portion 123a and the axis of the ink refill container 100 in the horizontal direction, and a fourth distance between the first engaging portion 123b and the axis of the ink refill container 100 in the horizontal direction. The third distance and the fourth distance are not equal, which further increases the difficulty of the guide portion 123a engaging with the first engaging portion 15 and the first engaging portion 123b engaging with the guide engaging portion 18, reduces the probability of the guide portion 123a engaging with the first engaging portion 15 incorrectly and the first engaging portion 123b engaging with the guide engaging portion 18 incorrectly, and prevents the ink refill container 100 and the ink tank 10 from being incorrectly engaged.

[0112] Preferably, the third distance is smaller than the fourth distance, so that the dimension of the guide portion 123a in the direction perpendicular to the axis of the ink replenishment container 100 (i.e., the first distance) can be set relatively larger. In some other embodiments, the third distance is greater than the fourth distance.

[0113] like Figure 10 As shown, when viewed along the axial direction of the ink refill container 100, the axisymmetric shape of the guide portion 123a relative to the axis of the ink refill container 100 does not coincide with the first engaging portion 123b. This means that the ink refill container 100 can only engage with the ink tank 10 at a specific angle. That is, when the guide portion 123a corresponds to the first engaging portion 15, the first engaging portion 123b will inevitably deviate from the guide engagement portion 18. When the first engaging portion 123b corresponds to the guide engagement portion 18, the guide portion 123a will inevitably deviate from the first engaging portion 15. Therefore, it is impossible to make the guide portion 123a and the first engaging portion 15 incorrectly engage simultaneously by rotating the ink refill container 100 close to 180°, which further increases the difficulty of engaging the guide portion 123a and the first engaging portion 15.

[0114] Preferably, one guide portion 123a is provided on the ink inlet flow path portion 12, and multiple first engaging portions 123b are provided along the circumference of the ink outlet portion 123 outside the axisymmetric pattern of the guide portion 123a and the guide portion 123a relative to the axis of the ink replenishment container 100.

[0115] In addition, in addition to the guide portion 123a and the first engaged portion 123b, a concave-convex portion 123c is provided on the outer peripheral wall of the ink outlet portion 123. Second recesses 123c1 are arranged at intervals on the concave-convex portion 123c. The second recesses 123c1 extend from the end near the ink outlet 121 to the end near the first connecting portion 122. The length of their extension is less than or equal to the length of the guide portion 123a. The second recesses 123c1 are provided to strengthen the structural strength of the ink outlet portion 123. In addition, they can also collect the ink remaining at the ink outlet to prevent the ink from flowing to other places and causing pollution.

[0116] like Figure 10 As shown, a second external thread 124 is provided between the ink outlet 123 and the first connecting part 122. Furthermore, the second external thread 124 is provided between the guide part 123a and the first connecting part 122.

[0117] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the valve component 150 is disposed within the ink outlet 123 to open or close the ink outlet 121. Specifically, the valve component 150 is disposed close to the ink outlet 121. The valve component 150 is elastic and can seal the ink outlet 121 by its own elasticity. The valve component 150 can be cylindrical, and its outer diameter can be equal to or slightly larger than the inner diameter of the ink outlet 123, so that when the valve component 150 is installed within the ink outlet 123, it can fit tightly against the inner wall of the ink outlet 123, thereby forming a seal on the ink outlet 121. Figure 14 As shown, a valve plate 153 is also provided at the end of the valve component 150 away from the ink outlet. The valve plate 153 can be integrally formed with the valve component 150. A self-closing slit is provided on the valve plate 153. The self-closing slit can be Y-shaped, straight, cross-shaped, or "*"-shaped, or other shapes. In the absence of external force, the self-closing slit is closed by its own elasticity, so that the valve component 150 can close and seal the ink outlet 121, preventing the ink in the ink replenishment container 100 from flowing out.

[0118] like Figure 14 and Figure 15As shown, the valve component 150 has protruding ribs 152 on its inner peripheral wall near the valve plate 153. Two ribs 152 are preferably provided, but three or more can also be provided. A gap 152a is formed between two ribs 152. The ribs 152 abut against the outer peripheral wall of the ink supply needle 14, and some external air can enter the ink replenishment container 100 through the gap 152a, facilitating rapid ink filling.

[0119] Furthermore, such as Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, the inner peripheral wall of the valve component 150 is also provided with an annular groove 154 that is further away from the valve plate 153 than the rib 152. The annular groove 154 is close to the opening end of the valve component 150 and is recessed outward from the inner peripheral wall of the valve component 150. It is used to fix the ink absorber 160. The ink absorber 160 is annular and deformable. It can be a sponge, absorbent cotton, or absorbent fiber, etc., as long as it can be used to absorb ink. When assembling the ink refill container, the ink absorber 160 is first squeezed into the annular groove 154 through the opening of the valve component 150 until it is stably fixed in the annular groove 154. The ink absorber is used to absorb the ink remaining on the ink outlet 121 and the outer peripheral wall of the ink supply needle 14 to prevent contamination.

[0120] In some other embodiments, the ink absorber 160 can also be disposed at other locations on the valve component 150, for example, disposed on the outer end face of the opening of the valve component 150, and the ink absorber 160 can be glued to the valve component 150 by means of adhesive; or the ink absorber 160 can be sleeved on the outer side of the valve component 150, and the valve component 150 can be engaged and abutted against the inner peripheral wall of the ink outlet flow path 120 through the ink absorber 160, with the outermost part of the ink absorber 160 being closer to the ink outlet 121 than the valve component 150; other matching methods are also possible, as long as it can ensure that the ink absorber 160 can absorb some residual ink, which are not limited here.

[0121] Furthermore, such as Figure 12 and Figure 15As shown, to prevent the valve component 150 from moving under force, a snap-fit ​​portion 127 is provided on the inner wall of the ink outlet portion 123 to cooperate with the valve component 150. A joint portion 155 is provided on the outer circumferential wall of the valve component 150 to cooperate with the snap-fit ​​portion 127. Preferably, the snap-fit ​​portion 127 is a flange formed on the inner wall of the ink outlet portion 123, extending circumferentially along the inner wall of the ink outlet portion 123. The joint portion 155 is an annular groove provided circumferentially along the valve component 150. During installation, force is applied to deform the valve component 150, causing the flange to snap into the annular groove, thereby restricting the axial movement of the valve component 150 and preventing it from dislodging or falling into the ink outlet portion 123 under force. In order to further restrict the movement of the valve component 150 in the axial direction, an abutting part 128 is provided on the inner wall of the ink outlet 123 and abutted part 151 is provided on the outer peripheral wall of the valve component 150 to abut the abutting part 128. The abutting part 128 is a stepped part formed on the inner peripheral wall of the ink outlet 123, and the abutted part 151 is a protrusion formed on the outer peripheral wall of the valve component 150. The two are positioned in the axial direction.

[0122] like Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, a positioning post 125 is fixedly provided inside the ink outlet flow path 120. The positioning post 125 extends at least partially along a direction parallel to the central axis of the ink outlet 121. A positioning surface 125a is provided at one end of the positioning post 125 near the ink outlet 121, and annular protrusions 125b are respectively provided around the positioning surface 125a. The annular protrusions 125b are further away from the container body 110 along the central axis of the ink outlet 121 than the positioning surface 125a. The annular protrusions 125b are spaced at intervals of 3, or 2, 4 or more.

[0123] Furthermore, a first guide surface 125c is provided on the annular protrusion 125b. The first guide surface 125c extends obliquely from the end of the annular protrusion 125b near the ink outlet 121 towards the central axis of the ink outlet 121. The first guide surface 125c is connected to the positioning surface 125a.

[0124] Furthermore, the ink outlet flow path 120 also includes a support portion 126 for supporting and fixing the positioning post 125. One end of the support portion 126 near the container body 110 is connected to the positioning post 125, and the other end is connected to the inner wall of the ink outlet flow path 120. The other end of the support portion 126 extends along the central axis towards the ink outlet 121. Viewed along the central axis of the ink outlet 121, the other end of the support portion 126 protrudes from the inner wall of the ink outlet flow path 120, and its shape can be a rib, a spur, or a protrusion. The positioning post 125 is fixedly positioned at the central axis position within the ink outlet flow path 120 by the support portion 126. Preferably, the support portion 126 and the positioning post 125 are integrally formed; more preferably, the support portion 126, the positioning post 125, and the ink outlet flow path 120 are integrally formed.

[0125] like Figure 12 As shown, the shape of the positioning post 125 can be Y-shaped, cross-shaped, straight, triangular or "*" shaped, or other regular or irregular geometric shapes or combinations thereof. In this embodiment, the shape of the positioning post 125 is not limited, as long as it can guide the end face of the support member 17 on the ink supply needle 14 to a stable contact with it.

[0126] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the ink refill container 100 also includes a cover component 130, which detachably covers the ink outlet flow path 120, shielding the ink outflow portion 123 and providing protection. Specifically, as... Figure 17 As shown, a gripping part 131 is provided on the outer peripheral wall of the cover component 130 near the top end, which makes it convenient for the user to grip and make it close or detach from the ink outlet flow path part 120.

[0127] like Figures 18-20 As shown, the inner peripheral wall of the cover component 130 is provided with a second internal thread 132, which can be threadedly connected to the second external thread 124 on the ink outlet flow path 120. The cover component 130 can be disassembled relative to the ink outlet flow path 120. The cover component 130 and the ink outlet flow path 120 can be connected by a threaded engagement method or by a snap-fit ​​method.

[0128] Furthermore, such as Figure 19 and Figure 20 As shown, a protrusion 133 is also provided at the inner top of the cover member 130, which extends from the inner top of the cover member 130 in a direction away from the top. When the cover member 130 is closed onto the ink outlet flow path 120, at least a portion of the protrusion 133 is accommodated in the opening space of the valve member 150 facing the ink outlet 121, occupying the space area of ​​the valve member 150, and further preventing ink leakage.

[0129] In some other embodiments, the ink refill container 100 may not have a cap 130, but instead use a sealing film at the ink outlet 121 to block the ink outlet 121, thereby further achieving a sealing effect.

[0130] In some other embodiments, the ink refill container 100 may also be provided with both a cap component 130 and a sealing film.

[0131] like Figure 21 As shown, when the ink refill container 100 is inverted and inserted into the ink tank 10, the ink outlet flow path 120 is engaged with the ink inlet flow path 12, allowing the ink needle 14 to open the valve component 150 and insert it into the ink outlet flow path 120, so that the support member 17 on the ink needle 14 abuts against the positioning post 125.

[0132] like Figures 1 to 23 As shown, when replenishing ink to the ink tank 10 using the ink replenishment container 100, the ink replenishment container 100 is inverted and, guided by the guide portion 123a, matches with the guide mating portion 18 on the ink tank 10. The ink replenishment container 100 is then inserted into the ink inlet flow path portion 12. The first engaged portion 123b on the ink outlet flow path portion 120 engages with the first engaged portion 15 inside the ink inlet flow path portion 12, causing the first engaged portion 15 to be inserted into the first engaged portion 123b. At this time, the ink supply needle 14 contacts and presses against the valve plate 153 of the valve component 150, causing the self-closing cut to elastically deform. The ink supply needle 14 then passes through the valve plate 153 and inserts into the ink outlet flow path. Inside the ink supply path 120, the end face of the support member 17 on the ink supply needle 14 abuts against the positioning surface 125a on the positioning post 125 under the guidance of the first guide surface 125c. The movement of the ink replenishment container 100 relative to the ink tank 10 is restricted, and it cannot be further inserted into the first recess 13 of the ink inlet flow path 12. The position of the ink supply needle 14 in the ink outlet flow path 120 is also limited, thereby guiding the ink replenishment container 100 and the ink tank 10 to be correctly positioned. At the same time, it can also automatically correct the positional relationship between the ink replenishment container 100 and the ink tank 10, prevent unstable positioning between the two, affect the ink filling speed, and prevent ink leakage.

[0133] Furthermore, at least a portion of the ink supply needle 14 is located outside the ink outlet 121, and there is a certain distance between the end of the ink outlet flow path 120 near the ink outlet 121 and the bottom surface of the first recess 13, thereby preventing the ink replenishment container 100 from being contaminated by ink residue around the ink supply needle 14 or at the bottom of the first recess 13 during filling. After the ink supply needle 14 is inserted into the ink outlet flow path 120, it connects the container body 110 of the ink replenishment container 100 and the ink storage chamber 11 inside the ink tank 10, and the ink in the container body 110 is replenished into the ink tank 10 via the ink supply needle 14.

[0134] After refilling, remove the ink refill container 100 from the ink tank 10. At this time, the valve component 150 on the ink refill container 100 will sequentially disengage from the outer peripheral wall of the ink supply needle 14 and reach the narrowed area at the tip of the ink supply needle 14. (See attached image.) Figures 21-23 As the valve component 150 is opened by the ink supply needle 14, the opening of the valve plate 153 gradually decreases, and the amount of ink flowing out of the ink replenishment container 100 also gradually decreases until the ink supply needle 14 is completely pulled out. At this point, the valve component 150 closes due to its own elasticity, and the ink outlet 121 is sealed again, preventing any ink from flowing out. Furthermore, during the process of pulling out the ink replenishment container 100, the ink absorber 160 on the valve component 150 also absorbs the ink remaining on the outer peripheral wall of the ink supply needle 14, preventing ink leakage and contamination of the ink tank 10 and the external environment.

[0135] With the above structure, when the ink replenishment container 100 is separated from the ink tank 10, some residual ink is adsorbed, the valve component 150 is buffered from opening to closing, the possibility of ink splashing is reduced, and the ink splattering phenomenon is improved.

[0136] Variation Example 1

[0137] like Figure 24 and Figure 25 As shown, the difference between this modified example and the first embodiment is that the shape of the upper end of the ink supply needle 14 is different.

[0138] In this modified example, the first flow path 14a and the second flow path 14b of the ink supply needle 14 are separated by a spacer 14c, and the upper end of the first flow path 14a is higher than the upper end of the second flow path 14b, with a height difference of h1 between them. The first flow path 14a is an air flow path, and the second flow path 14b is an ink flow path.

[0139] A narrowed region is formed between the upper end of the second flow path 14b of the ink supply needle 14 and the upper end of the first flow path 14a.

[0140] The rest is the same as in Example 1, and will not be repeated here.

[0141] Variation Example 2

[0142] like Figure 26 and Figure 27 As shown, the difference between this modified example and the first embodiment is that the shape of the upper end of the ink supply needle is also different.

[0143] In this modified example, the first flow path 14a and the second flow path 14b of the ink supply needle 14 are separated by a spacer member 14c, and the upper end of the first flow path 14a has a concave-convex structure, that is, it is formed by a third convex portion 14a1 and a third concave portion 14a2. Similarly, the upper end of the second flow path 14b also has a concave-convex structure, which is formed by a fourth convex portion 14b1 and a fourth concave portion 14b2. The third convex portion 14a1 and the fourth convex portion 14b1 are opposite to each other on the two flow paths, and the third concave portion 14a2 and the fourth concave portion 14b2 are opposite to each other.

[0144] In some other implementations, the uneven structure may be provided only at the upper end of one flow path.

[0145] A narrowing region is formed between the upper end of the third recess 14a2 of the first flow path 14a and the fourth recess 14b2 of the second flow path 14b and the upper end of the third protrusion 14a1 of the first flow path 14a and the fourth protrusion 14b1 of the second flow path 14b.

[0146] The rest is the same as in Example 1, and will not be repeated here.

[0147] Variation Example 3

[0148] like Figure 28 and Figure 29 As shown, the difference between this modified example and modified example 1 is that the height difference between the upper end of the first flow path 14a and the upper end of the second flow path 14b on the ink supply needle 14 becomes larger.

[0149] In this modified example, the first flow path 14a and the second flow path 14b of the ink supply needle 14 are separated by a spacer 14c, and the upper end of the first flow path 14a is higher than the upper end of the second flow path 14b, with a height difference of h2, where h2>h1.

[0150] A narrowed region is formed between the upper end of the second flow path 14b of the ink supply needle 14 and the upper end of the first flow path 14a.

[0151] The rest is the same as in Example 1, and will not be repeated here.

[0152] Example 2

[0153] This embodiment is based on Embodiment 1 with modifications.

[0154] In this embodiment, as Figure 30 As shown, the outer peripheral wall of the ink inlet flow path 12 is a complete circle. As shown, the spacer 14c of the ink supply needle 14 consists of a spacer wall and a cylindrical part. The spacer wall is connected to the inner peripheral wall of the ink supply needle 14, and the cylindrical part is disposed between the two spacer walls and connected to the two spacer walls respectively.

[0155] like Figure 31 and Figure 32 As shown, the support member 17 is disposed within the space 14d inside the ink supply needle 14, and the support member 17 includes a large-diameter portion 17b and a small-diameter portion 17a. Figure 33 As shown, the top of the cylindrical part is open and the bottom is closed, forming a hollow space 14d between the top and the bottom. The space 14d includes a large cylindrical part 14d2 and a small cylindrical part 14d1. The large cylindrical part 14d2 is located above the small cylindrical part 14d1, that is, the large cylindrical part 14d2 is closer to the top opening.

[0156] When the support member 17 is housed within the internal space 14d of the ink supply needle 14, the small diameter portion 17a mates with the small cylindrical portion 14d1 (this mate can be an interference fit), and the large diameter portion 17b mates with the large cylindrical portion 14d2 (this mate can be an interference fit or a non-interference fit). The top of the large diameter portion 17b can be needle-shaped, and the top of the large diameter portion 17b can be higher than or flush with the top of the spacer member 14c; preferably, the top of the large diameter portion 17b is higher than the top of the spacer member 14c.

[0157] Because the structure of the ink canister 10 has been changed, the structure of the ink refill container 100 has also been changed accordingly. For example... Figures 34-36 As shown, the structure of the ink outlet flow path 120 of the ink refill container 100 has been changed. The outer peripheral wall of the ink outflow part 123 of the ink outlet flow path 120 is not provided with the guide part 123a and the concave and convex parts 123c, but only the first engaging part 123b is provided. The first engaging part 123b is identified and connected with the first engaging part 15 in the ink inlet flow path 12. The shape and number of the first engaging part 123b can be set according to the shape and number of the first engaging part 15 in the ink tank 10, as long as the identification connection between the two is satisfied.

[0158] like Figure 37 As shown, when the ink refill container 100 is inverted and inserted into the ink tank 10, the ink outlet flow path 120 is engaged with the ink inlet flow path 12, allowing the ink needle 14 to open the valve component 150 and insert it into the ink outlet flow path 120, so that the needle-shaped top of the support member 17 on the ink needle 14 abuts against the positioning post 125.

[0159] The following variation modifies the spacer 14c and support 17 on the ink supply needle 14 inside the ink tank 10.

[0160] Variation Example 1

[0161] like Figure 38 As shown, unlike Embodiment 2, in this modified example, a semi-cylindrical portion is provided on the spacer 14c, and this semi-cylindrical portion is only provided on the left side, while the right side is open.

[0162] like Figure 39 As shown, the support member 17 is fixedly connected to the spacer member 14c, that is, the support member 17 is a member that protrudes directly from the bottom of the semi-cylindrical part.

[0163] The other structures are the same as in Embodiment 2, and will not be described again here.

[0164] Variation Example 2

[0165] like Figure 40 As shown, the semi-cylindrical portion on the spacer 14c can also be provided only on the right side, with the left side open.

[0166] like Figure 41 As shown, the support member 17 is fixedly connected to the spacer member 14c, that is, the support member 17 is a member that protrudes directly from the bottom of the semi-cylindrical part.

[0167] The other structures are the same as in Embodiment 2, and will not be described again here.

[0168] Variation Example 3

[0169] like Figure 42 As shown, the spacer 14c is formed by two spacer walls 14c1, and a groove 14e is formed between the two spacer walls 14c1, with the support 17 protruding from the middle of the groove 14e.

[0170] like Figure 43 As shown, the support member 17 is fixedly connected to the groove 14e, that is, the support member 17 is a component that protrudes directly from the bottom of the groove 14e.

[0171] In some other embodiments, the support 17 can also be detachably connected to the groove 14e, and the detachment connection method can be snap-fit, threaded, adhesive, etc.

[0172] Variation Example 4

[0173] The difference between this embodiment and embodiment two is that the cooperation relationship between the support member 17 and the ink supply needle 14 is different.

[0174] like Figures 44-46 As shown, the cylindrical portion of the spacer 14c on the ink needle 14 is hollow, and the support member 17 is a member protruding from the hollow cylindrical portion. The support member 17 may or may not abut against the inner circumferential wall of the hollow cylindrical portion.

[0175] The other structures are the same as in Embodiment 2, and will not be described again here.

[0176] Example 3

[0177] Unlike Embodiment 2, in this embodiment, a limiting part 129 is also provided in the ink outlet flow path 120.

[0178] like Figure 47 and Figure 50 As shown, at least one limiting part 129 is provided on the inner peripheral wall of the ink outlet 123, and the limiting part 129 can abut against the ink supply needle 14 in the ink tank 10. When the ink replenishment container 100 is installed into the ink tank 10, the limiting part 129 partially overlaps with the ink supply needle 14 in the radial direction of the ink outlet 121, thereby restricting the movement of the ink supply needle 14 in the ink outlet flow path 120, that is, restricting the movement in the radial direction of the ink outlet 121, preventing the ink replenishment container 100 from shaking relative to the ink supply needle 14 and causing ink leakage, so that the ink replenishment container 100 can supply ink to the ink tank 10 in a stable state.

[0179] Specifically, such as Figure 47 As shown, the limiting part 129 is provided on the side of the support part 126 facing the positioning post 125, that is, it is provided closer to the positioning post 125 than the support part 126. The support part 126 is located between the limiting part 129 and the inner peripheral wall of the ink outlet part 123. Compared with directly providing the limiting part 129 on the inner peripheral wall of the ink outlet part 123, this arrangement can reduce the material required for providing the limiting part 129 and reduce the weight of the ink outlet flow path part 120.

[0180] The shape of the limiting portion 129 is similar to that of the support portion 126, that is, it extends along the direction of the central axis of the ink outlet 121. Its length can be less than the length of the support portion 126. Viewed from the direction of the central axis of the ink outlet 121, the limiting portion 129 protrudes from the support portion 126, and its shape can be a rib, a bar, or a protrusion. In some other embodiments, the length of the limiting portion 129 can also be equal to the length of the support portion 126.

[0181] Along the central axis of the vertical ink outlet 121, the width of the limiting part 129 is less than or equal to the width of the supporting part 126. This facilitates the placement of the limiting part 129 on the supporting part 126 and also makes the contact area between the limiting part 129 and the supporting part 126 relatively large, so that the limiting part 129 is less likely to fall off the supporting part 126.

[0182] Furthermore, such as Figure 48 As shown, the limiting part 129 is provided with a second guide surface 129a at one end facing the ink outlet 121. The second guide surface 129a extends obliquely away from the ink outlet 121 along the direction of the central axis of the ink outlet 121. The limiting part 129 is also provided with an abutment surface 129b, which is parallel to the central axis of the ink outlet 121 and is connected to the end of the second guide surface 129a away from the ink outlet 121.

[0183] like Figure 49 As shown, when filling with ink, the ink supply needle 14 is inserted into the ink outlet flow path 120. Under the guidance of the second guide surface 129a of the limiting part 129, its outer peripheral wall can abut against the contact surface 129b, or there can be a certain gap between it and the contact surface 129b, which restricts the movement of the ink supply needle 14 in the ink outlet flow path 120, that is, restricts its movement in the radial direction of the ink outlet 121.

[0184] Furthermore, the two ends of the limiting part 129 in the direction of the central axis perpendicular to the ink outlet 121 are chamfered to form connecting arc surfaces, that is, the connecting arc surfaces are located on both sides of the abutment surface 129b, thereby preventing the limiting part 129 from having sharp tips, and thus preventing the limiting part 129 from damaging the ink supply needle 14 when the ink supply needle 14 is inserted into the ink outlet flow path part 120.

[0185] Preferably, there are at least three limiting parts 129 on the inner peripheral wall of the ink outlet 123. The three limiting parts 129 are evenly arranged around the axis of the ink outlet 121, so as to more stably clamp the ink supply needle 14 and prevent the ink replenishment container 100 from shaking relative to the ink supply needle 14, which would cause ink leakage.

[0186] In some other embodiments, the second guide surface 129a on the limiting part 129 may not be provided, as long as it can ensure that the ink supply needle 14 can easily enter the ink outlet flow path part 120 and be stably limited.

[0187] In this modified example, the limiting part 129 and the supporting part 126 are integrally provided. However, in some other embodiments, the limiting part 129 and the supporting part 126 can also be provided separately. If they are provided separately, they can be connected by snap-fitting, bonding, welding or other means.

[0188] In some other embodiments, the top end of the ink supply needle 14 can also be set as a plane, in which case the top end of the ink supply needle 14 abuts against the annular protrusion 125b of the positioning post 125, which facilitates the filling of ink.

[0189] The other structures of the ink canister 10 and ink refill container 100 in this modified example are the same as those in Embodiment 2, and will not be described again here.

[0190] Example 4

[0191] This embodiment is based on Embodiment 1 with modifications.

[0192] In this embodiment, as Figure 51 As shown, the outer peripheral wall of the ink outlet 123 includes a body portion 123d and a guide portion 123a. Along the axial direction of the ink replenishment container, the projection of the body portion 123d has a first profile, and the projection of the guide portion 123a has a second profile different from the first profile.

[0193] By making the first and second contours different, the body portion 123d cannot mate with the guide mating portion 18, and the guide portion 123a cannot mate with any part of the ink inlet flow path portion 12 other than the guide mating portion 18, thereby preventing incorrect mating between the ink refill container 100 and the ink tank 10. Simultaneously, the mating of the body portion 123d with the part of the ink inlet flow path portion 12 other than the guide mating portion 18, and the mating of the guide portion 123a with the guide mating portion 18, guide the connection between the ink refill container 100 and the ink tank 10, thereby reducing the difficulty of mating the ink refill container 100 and the ink tank 10, and thus improving the user experience.

[0194] Optionally, the first outline of the projection of the main body 123d is an arc, and the second outline of the projection of the guide part 123a is a straight line, that is, the guide part 123a is a plane, and the corresponding guide mating part 18 has a plane surface for mating with the guide part 123a.

[0195] Optionally, the first profile projected from the main body 123d is an arc, and the second profile projected from the guide 123a is an arc, meaning the guide 123a is a curved surface, and the corresponding surface of the guide mating part 18 that mates with the guide 123a is also a curved surface. In this case, the curvatures of the first profile and the second profile are different.

[0196] Specifically, the guide portion 123a extends along the axial direction of the ink outlet 121, and the guide portion 123a contacts the second external thread 124. The second external thread 124 continuously surrounds the outer peripheral wall of the ink outlet 123 at least once, making the guide portion 123a longer in the axial direction of the ink outlet 121. This allows the guide portion 123a to better guide the engagement of the ink refill container 100 and the ink canister 10, thereby improving the user experience of the ink refill container 100.

[0197] Along the axial direction of the ink outlet 121, the ratio of the length L1 of the guide portion 123a to the length L2 of the ink outlet flow path portion satisfies: 0.7≤L1 / L2≤1.

[0198] The ratio of the length L1 of the guide section 123a to the length L2 of the ink outlet flow path section should not be too small. If the ratio of the length L1 of the guide section 123a to the length L2 of the ink outlet flow path section is too small (for example, less than 0.7), it will affect the guiding role of the guide section 123a in connecting the ink refill container 100 and the ink tank 10, thereby affecting the user experience of the ink refill container 100.

[0199] More specifically, the center of the body portion 123d and the center of the guide portion 123a are located on opposite sides of the ink outlet, that is, the body portion 123d and the guide portion 123a are located on opposite sides of the ink outlet. Preferably, the guide portion 123a occupies less than 50% of the outer peripheral wall of the ink outlet portion 123, and the body portion 123d occupies more than 50% of the outer peripheral wall of the ink outlet portion 123.

[0200] Understandably, for ink refill containers 100 that store ink of different colors, the proportion of the main body 123d occupying the outer peripheral wall of the ink outlet 123 can be different, and the proportion of the guide part 123a occupying the outer peripheral wall of the ink outlet 123 can also be different. The curvature of the second contour can also be different, so as to facilitate identification and prevent misinsertion.

[0201] like Figure 51 As shown, there is a gap groove 123e between the guide portion 123a and the body portion 123d. The gap groove 123e is located between the end of the second external thread 124 near the ink outlet 121 and the guide portion 123a. The gap groove 123e extends along the axial direction of the ink outlet 121.

[0202] On the one hand, the spacer groove 123e increases the distance between the end of the second external thread 124 near the ink outlet 121 and the guide portion 123a, preventing the second external thread 124 from interfering with the engagement between the guide portion 123a and the guide mating portion 18; on the other hand, the spacer groove 123e can improve the strength of the ink outflow portion 123. At the same time, the spacer groove 123e also clearly divides the body portion 123d and the guide portion 123a.

[0203] Preferably, along the axial direction of the ink outlet 121, the length of the spacer groove 123e is equal to the length of the guide portion 123a. In some other embodiments, the length of the spacer groove 123e may also be slightly longer or slightly shorter than the length of the guide portion 123a.

[0204] like Figure 51 As shown, along the axial direction perpendicular to the ink outlet 121, the spacer groove 123e is located on at least one side of the guide portion 123a. When only one spacer groove 123e is provided, the spacer groove 123e is located on the side of the guide portion 123a near the end of the second external thread 124; when two spacer grooves 123e are provided, the spacer grooves are located on both sides of the guide portion 123a.

[0205] Furthermore, along the extension direction of the second external thread 124, the height of the connection between the guide portion 123a and the second external thread 124 in the axial direction of the ink outlet 121 remains unchanged. That is, a portion of the second external thread 124 is cut to form the guide portion 123a, thereby ensuring that the length of the guide portion 123a is relatively long without disrupting the continuity of the second external thread 124. As a result, when the cover component 130 is engaged with the ink outlet flow path 120, the rotation of the cover component 130 relative to the ink outlet flow path 120 is relatively smooth. At the same time, there is no gap or the gap is small between the cover component 130 and the ink outlet flow path 120, which can prevent ink leakage from the ink replenishment container 100.

[0206] Furthermore, the diameter d of the ink outlet 121 satisfies: 3mm≤d≤15.3mm.

[0207] The diameter d of the ink outlet 121 should match the size of the ink inlet flow path 12 of the ink tank 10; therefore, the diameter d of the ink outlet 121 should not be too large or too small. Compared to existing ink refill containers, the ink outlet 121 of the ink refill container 100 provided in this application has a larger diameter d, which allows for a larger valve component 150 installed in the ink outlet flow path 120 and facilitates the installation of the valve component 150. Simultaneously, the larger ink outlet 121 can accommodate a thicker ink supply needle 14, allowing the ink in the ink refill container 100 to flow to the ink tank more quickly, reducing the time required to refill the ink tank 10 with the same amount of ink.

[0208] The other structures of the ink canister 10 and ink refill container 100 in this embodiment are the same as those in Embodiment 1, and will not be described again here.

[0209] Variations

[0210] like Figure 51 and Figure 52 As shown, the ink outlet flow path 120 has a positioning part 123g on the side away from the container body 110, and the ink inlet flow path 12 has a positioning mating part 19. The positioning mating part 19 can cooperate with the positioning part 123g to restrict the movement of the ink replenishment container 100 relative to the ink tank 10 in its axial direction, thereby achieving positioning of the ink replenishment container 100 in the axial direction. At the same time, the positioning part 123g can provide a certain support for the ink replenishment container 100, preventing the ink replenishment container 100 from shaking relative to the ink supply needle 14 and causing ink leakage, so that the ink replenishment container 100 can supply ink to the ink tank 10 in a stable state.

[0211] like Figure 53 and Figure 54As shown, when the ink refill container 100 is inverted and inserted into the ink tank 10, the positioning part 123g abuts against the positioning mating part 19, preventing the ink outlet flow path part 120 from being further inserted into the ink inlet flow path part 12, thereby limiting the depth of the ink supply needle 14 inserted into the ink outlet flow path part 120, and thus preventing the ink supply needle 14 from being inserted into the ink outlet flow path part 120 too deeply, which would make it difficult to separate the two and damage the ink supply needle 14.

[0212] like Figure 51 As shown, the ink outlet flow path 120 has a protrusion 123f on the side away from the container body 110, and the positioning part 123g is located on the outer periphery of the protrusion 123f. The protrusion 123f is farther away from the container body 110 than the positioning part 123g. That is, the positioning part 123g is an annular surface located on the outer periphery of the protrusion 123f, and the annular surface is perpendicular to the axial direction of the ink replenishment container 100.

[0213] When the positioning part 123g abuts against the positioning mating part 19, the protrusion 123f is located on one side of the positioning mating part 19 in the direction of the vertical axis. When the protrusion 123f abuts against the side of the positioning mating part 19 in the direction of the vertical axis, the positioning mating part 19 restricts the movement of the ink replenishment container 100 in the direction of the vertical axis, so as to improve the accuracy of the docking between the ink replenishment container 100 and the ink tank 10.

[0214] like Figure 54 As shown, along the axial direction of the ink replenishment container 100, the end face of the valve component 150 away from the container body 110 is flush with the end face of the protrusion 123f away from the container body 110, which makes the contact area between the valve component 150 and the ink outlet 123 larger, thereby making it less likely for the valve component 150 to fall off the ink outlet.

[0215] like Figure 52 As shown, the positioning mating part 19 is a protrusion provided in the first recess 13. The surface of the protrusion facing away from the ink storage cavity 11 is used to abut against the positioning part 123g. The protrusion has the advantage of being easy to process, which helps to reduce the production cost of the ink inlet flow path part 12.

[0216] Specifically, multiple positioning mating parts 19 are spaced apart circumferentially along the first recess 13, allowing the positioning part 123g to abut against the multiple positioning mating parts 19, which helps improve the engagement stability of the ink outlet flow path 120 and the ink inlet flow path 12. Optionally, the multiple positioning mating parts 19 are evenly distributed, that is, the distance between adjacent positioning mating parts 19 is equal along the circumferential direction of the ink inlet flow path 12; alternatively, the multiple positioning mating parts 19 are not evenly distributed, that is, the distance between some adjacent positioning mating parts 19 is not equal along the circumferential direction of the ink inlet flow path 12.

[0217] Furthermore, the dimensions of the plurality of positioning mating parts 19 may be the same or different along the axial direction of the vertical ink inlet flow path 12; the height of the plurality of positioning mating parts 19 is the same along the axial direction of the ink inlet flow path 12, so that each positioning mating part 19 has the same positioning effect on the positioning part 123g.

[0218] like Figure 52 As shown, the surface of the positioning and fitting part 19 facing the axis of the first recess 13 is an arc surface. The shape of the arc surface matches the shape of the protrusion 123f, so that the positioning and fitting part 19 can better fit with the protrusion 123f and the positioning and fitting part 19 is less likely to scratch the ink outlet flow path part 120.

[0219] Furthermore, a connecting surface is provided between the positioning part 123g and the protrusion 123f, and the connecting surface is inclined relative to the axial direction of the ink refill container 100. When the ink refill container 100 is inserted upside down into the ink tank 10, the inclined connecting surface guides the positioning mating part 19 to engage with the positioning part 123g, thereby providing guidance for the engagement of the ink outlet flow path part 120 and the ink inlet flow path part 12.

[0220] Furthermore, the arc surface of the positioning mating part 19 facing the axis of the first recess 13 is also inclined relative to the axial direction of the ink replenishment container 100, so that the connecting surface can abut against the arc surface and slide relative to the arc surface, thereby guiding the engagement of the positioning mating part 19 and the positioning part 123g.

[0221] Preferably, when viewed along the axial direction of the vertical ink refill container 100, the center of the protrusion 123f coincides with the center of the ink outlet 121, making the structural distribution of the ink outlet 123 more balanced. Even when the user cannot see the protrusion 123f, the position of the protrusion 123f can be determined by observing the body part 123d of the ink outlet 123, thus improving the user experience of the ink refill container 100.

[0222] The rest is the same as in Example 4, and will not be repeated here.

[0223] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. An ink supply container detachably mounted on an ink tank (10) for supplying ink to the ink tank (10), characterized by, The ink refill container (100) includes: The container body (110) is used to store ink; An ink outlet flow path (120) is installed on the container body (110). The ink outlet flow path (120) has an ink outlet (123). The ink outlet (123) has a positioning part (123g) on ​​the side away from the container body (110). When the ink replenishment container (100) is installed on the ink tank (10), the positioning part (123g) is used to abut against the positioning mating part (19) on the ink tank (10).

2. The ink supply container according to claim 1, characterized by The ink outlet flow path (120) has a protrusion (123f) on the side away from the container body (110), and the positioning part (123g) is located on the outer periphery of the protrusion (123f). The protrusion (123f) is further away from the container body (110) than the positioning part (123g).

3. The ink supply container according to claim 2, characterized by The ink refill container (100) also includes a valve component (150), the ink outlet (123) has an ink outlet (121), and the valve component (150) is installed at the ink outlet (121); Along the axial direction of the ink refill container (100), the end face of the valve component (150) away from the container body (110) is flush with the end face of the protrusion (123f) away from the container body (110).

4. The ink supply container according to claim 3, characterized by Viewed along the axial direction perpendicular to the ink refill container (100), the center of the protrusion (123f) coincides with the center of the ink outlet (121).

5. The ink supply container according to claim 2, wherein The positioning part (123g) and the protrusion (123f) have a connecting surface, which is inclined relative to the axial direction of the ink refill container (100).

6. An ink tank characterized by comprising: For use with an ink refill container (100) according to any one of claims 1-5, the ink tank (10) includes an ink inlet flow path (12) having a positioning engagement part (19) for engaging with the positioning part (123g) to position the ink refill container (100).

7. The ink tank of claim 6, wherein The ink inlet flow path (12) has a first recess (13), and the positioning and fitting part (19) is a protrusion provided in the first recess (13).

8. The ink tank of claim 7, wherein The plurality of positioning mating parts (19) are arranged at circumferential intervals along the first recess (13).

9. The ink tank of claim 7, wherein The surface of the positioning mating part (19) facing the axis of the first recess (13) is an arc surface.

10. An ink replenishment system characterized by, It includes the ink refill container (100) according to any one of claims 1-5 and the ink canister (10) according to any one of claims 6-9.

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