A printer

Abstract

This utility model discloses a printer, including a body, a first paper tray, an expansion component, and a second paper tray. The body has a receiving groove with a downward opening to facilitate the installation of the second paper tray after subsequent expansion. The body has a first guide slide; the first paper tray has a second guide slide located below it, which is slidably connected to the first guide slide along a first direction to allow the first paper tray to enter the receiving groove. The second guide slide, being located below, has a low center of gravity, making it more stable, and requires fewer functional components, thus facilitating its installation. The expansion component, installed on the body, has a first support and a second support, which are spaced apart to form an expansion space. This expansion space, together with the receiving groove, accommodates the second paper tray. Both the first and second support have third guide slides; the second paper tray has a fourth guide slide located below it, which is slidably connected to the third guide slide along a first direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of printing equipment, specifically to a printer. Background Technology

[0002] In office document printers, there are certain usage scenarios where high print volumes necessitate the use of large-capacity paper trays. Sometimes, users are already using machines with small paper tray capacities without realizing it or having a clear understanding of their print volumes. In such cases, if a large-capacity paper tray is needed, it often requires purchasing a new machine, significantly increasing the purchase cost. Utility Model Content

[0003] The purpose of this utility model is to overcome the aforementioned defects or problems existing in the background art or to provide a material basis for overcoming the aforementioned defects or problems existing in the background art, and to provide a printer.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention and its preferred embodiments adopt the following technical solutions, but the embodiments are not limited to the following solutions:

[0005] Option 1, a printer, including

[0006] The body has a receiving groove that opens downwards and has a first guide slide;

[0007] A first paper tray has a second guide slide portion located on its lower side. The second guide slide portion is slidably connected to the first guide slide portion along a first direction so that the first paper tray enters the receiving groove.

[0008] An expansion component is installed on the machine body and has a first support portion and a second support portion adapted to support the machine body. The first support portion and the second support portion are spaced apart to form an expansion space communicating with the downward opening of the accommodating groove. Both the first support portion and the second support portion are provided with a third guide slide portion.

[0009] A first paper tray has a second guide slide portion located on its lower side, the second guide slide portion being adapted to slide in a first direction with the first guide slide portion, so that the first paper tray enters the receiving groove; or

[0010] The second paper compartment has a paper capacity greater than that of the first paper compartment. It is provided with a fourth guide slide on its lower side. The fourth guide slide is adapted to slide in a first direction with the third guide slide so that the second paper compartment can enter the trough and the expansion space.

[0011] Option 2, based on Option 1, wherein one of the first and second guide slides is a first guide rail, and the other is a first guide groove that slides with the first guide rail; one of the fourth and third guide slides is a second guide rail, and the other is a second guide groove that slides with the second guide rail; the first guide rail and / or the second guide rail are provided with a first abutment, a connecting part, and a second abutment; the connecting part is inclined relative to the vertical direction, and its upper and lower ends are respectively connected to the first abutment and the second abutment; the first abutment and the second abutment abut against the upper and lower groove walls of the first or second guide groove, respectively.

[0012] Option 3, based on Option 2, has an inlet with a gradually decreasing size in the first guide groove and / or the second guide groove.

[0013] Option 4, based on Option 1, the expansion component includes a first support component and a second support component that are separately configured, wherein the first support component and the second support component are respectively provided with a first support portion and a second support portion.

[0014] Option 5, based on Option 1, further includes a connecting rod, with its two ends connected to the first support portion and the second support portion, respectively.

[0015] Option 6, based on Option 1, wherein the body is provided with a first locking part, and the first support part and / or the second support part is provided with a second locking part, wherein one of the first locking part and the second locking part is an elastic hook, and the other is a locking plate, the locking plate being adapted to engage with the inclined surface of the elastic hook to deform the elastic hook, and the elastic hook being adapted to recover when the locking plate passes over, so as to engage with the locking plate in the vertical direction; the body being adapted to engage the locking plate with the elastic hook when it is situated on the first support part and the second support part.

[0016] Option 7, based on Option 1 or Option 6, the body is provided with a first positioning part, the first support part and / or the second support part is provided with a second positioning part, one of the first positioning part and the second positioning part is a positioning shaft extending in the vertical direction, and the other is a positioning hole that is inserted into the positioning shaft.

[0017] Option 8, based on Option 1, the body is provided with a first latching part, and the expansion component further includes a latching component and a biasing component. The latching component is rotatably connected to the first support part and / or the second support part about an axis perpendicular to the vertical direction. One of the first latching part and the latching component is a claw, and the other is a latching plate. The latching plate is adapted to cooperate with the inclined surface of the claw to make the latching component rotate. One end of the biasing component acts on the first support part or the second support part, and the other end acts on the latching component, so that the claw is adapted to reset when the latching plate passes by, so as to latch with the latching plate in the vertical direction.

[0018] Option 9, based on Option 8, provides a pressing part for the snap-fit ​​component, which is exposed in the first support part or the second support part. The pressing part is adapted to rotate the snap-fit ​​component when pressed, so that the snap claw disengages from the snap-fit ​​plate.

[0019] Option 10, based on Option 9, involves a pressing portion located on the first or second support portion facing the opposite direction.

[0020] As can be seen from the above description of the present invention and its preferred embodiments, compared with the prior art, the technical solution of the present invention and its preferred embodiments have the following beneficial effects due to the adoption of the following technical means:

[0021] 1. A printer, comprising a body, a first paper tray, an expansion component, and a second paper tray. The body has a accommodating slot for accommodating either the first paper tray or a portion thereof for accommodating the second paper tray. The accommodating slot has a downward opening to facilitate subsequent expansion for installation of the second paper tray.

[0022] The body is equipped with a first guide slide;

[0023] The first paper compartment is provided with a second guide slide on its lower side. The second guide slide is adapted to slide and connect with the first guide slide in a first direction so that the first paper compartment enters the receiving groove. The second guide slide is located on the lower side, with a low center of gravity, making it more stable. Furthermore, fewer functional components are usually required to be set below, making it easier to set the second guide slide. It also allows the second guide slide to be set longer, resulting in better guiding and supporting effects.

[0024] If the second paper tray is directly installed on the aforementioned machine body (without the first paper tray), the second paper tray's paper capacity is greater than that of the first paper tray. This typically manifests as the second paper tray being taller. When placed on a table or other object, the second paper tray protrudes from the bottom of the machine body, making it susceptible to damage due to the machine's weight, and also resulting in an unsightly appearance. A capacity expansion component is installed on the machine body, featuring a first support portion and a second support portion suitable for supporting the machine body. The first and second support portions are spaced apart to form an expansion space communicating with the downward opening of the receiving slot. This expansion space, together with the receiving slot, accommodates the second paper tray. Both the first and second support portions are equipped with a third guide slide.

[0025] The second paper compartment is provided with a fourth guide slide on its lower side. The fourth guide slide is adapted to slide and connect with the third guide slide along the first direction so that the second paper compartment can enter the sump and expand the space. Similarly, the fourth guide slide is located on the lower side, with a low center of gravity, making it more stable. In addition, fewer functional components are usually required at the bottom, making it easier to install the fourth guide slide. It also allows the fourth guide slide to be made longer, resulting in better guiding and supporting effects.

[0026] 2. In Scheme 2 and its preferred embodiments, one of the first and second guide slide portions is a first guide rail, and the other is a first guide groove that slides with the first guide rail to achieve both sliding connection and support. One of the fourth and third guide slide portions is a second guide rail, and the other is a second guide groove that slides with the second guide rail to achieve both sliding connection and support.

[0027] The first guide rail and / or the second guide rail are provided with a first abutting part, a connecting part and a second abutting part. The connecting part is inclined in the vertical direction, and its upper and lower ends are respectively connected to the first abutting part and the second abutting part. Because the connecting part is inclined, it is allowed to undergo a certain amount of compression deformation in the vertical direction, so that the first abutting part and the second abutting part abut against the upper and lower groove walls of the first guide groove or the second guide groove respectively, thereby increasing the friction, ensuring installation stability and preventing the first paper tray or the second paper tray from exiting the machine body during use.

[0028] 3. In Scheme 3 and its preferred embodiments, the first guide groove and / or the second guide groove are provided with an inlet with a gradually decreasing size to facilitate the introduction of the first guide rail or the second guide rail and to facilitate assembly.

[0029] 4. In Scheme 4 and its preferred embodiments, the expansion component includes a first support component and a second support component that are separately configured. The first support component and the second support component are respectively provided with a first support part and a second support part. When configured separately, the first support part and the second support part can be installed and disassembled independently without mutual interference during installation and disassembly. Furthermore, the first support part and the second support part are not connected together, which can reduce the volume and weight of the expansion component.

[0030] 5. In Scheme 5 and its preferred embodiments, the expansion component further includes a connecting rod, with the two ends of the connecting rod connected to the first support part and the second support part respectively, so that the first support part and the second support part are integrally set and can be installed together, resulting in higher installation efficiency.

[0031] 6. In Scheme Six and its preferred embodiments, the machine body is provided with a first locking part, and the first support part and / or the second support part is provided with a second locking part. One of the first locking part and the second locking part is an elastic hook, and the other is a locking plate. The locking plate is adapted to engage with the inclined surface of the elastic hook to deform the elastic hook. After the elastic hook deforms, the locking plate is adapted to pass over the elastic hook, and the elastic hook is adapted to recover when the locking plate passes over, thus locking with the locking plate in the vertical direction. This prevents the machine body from easily detaching from the first or second support part in the vertical direction. The locking process is achieved through the deformation force of the elastic hook itself, which is simple and convenient. When the machine body is positioned on the first or second support part, the locking plate engages with the elastic hook, and the above installation process is completed by the weight of the machine body, making it even more convenient.

[0032] 7. In Scheme 7 and its preferred embodiments, the body is provided with a first positioning part, and the first support part and / or the second support part is provided with a second positioning part. One of the first positioning part and the second positioning part is a positioning shaft extending in the vertical direction, and the other is a positioning hole that inserts into the positioning shaft, thereby completing the insertion and allowing the body and the expansion component to be positioned at their upper limits in the direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. In some embodiments, the positioning guidance of the first and second positioning parts allows multiple snap-fit ​​plates to engage with the elastic hooks simultaneously, making installation easier and more convenient.

[0033] 8. In Scheme 8 and its preferred embodiments, the machine body is provided with a first locking part, and the expansion component further includes a locking member and a biasing member. The locking member is rotatably connected to the first support part and / or the second support part about an axis perpendicular to the vertical direction. One of the first locking part and the locking member is a claw, and the other is a locking plate. The locking plate is adapted to cooperate with the inclined surface of the claw to make the locking member rotate. One end of the biasing member acts on the first support part or the second support part, and the other end acts on the locking member, so that the claw is adapted to reset when the locking plate passes by, so as to lock with the locking plate in the vertical direction, thereby preventing the machine body from easily disengaging from the first support part or the second support part in the vertical direction. The rotation of the locking member realizes the avoidance between the locking plate and the claw, preventing damage caused by direct deformation, and the locking member can also be made of a high-hardness material to ensure strength. The force applied by the biasing member can automatically reset to the locking state, which is more convenient.

[0034] 9. In Scheme 9 and its preferred embodiments, the snap-fit ​​component is provided with a pressing part, which is exposed in the first support part or the second support part. The pressing part is adapted to rotate the snap-fit ​​component when pressed, so that the snap-fit ​​claw disengages from the snap-fit ​​plate, thereby allowing the machine body to disengage from the expansion component, thereby making the printer portable and reducing its weight. When installing the first paper tray, there will be no large gap under the first paper tray, making it more aesthetically pleasing.

[0035] 10. In Scheme 10 and its preferred embodiments, the pressing part located in the first support part or the second support part is arranged facing the other side, so that the pressing part is not exposed on the outer surface of the expansion member, which is more aesthetically pleasing. At the same time, when disassembling, the hand can be inserted into the inside, the thumb can be pressed against the outer wall of the expansion member, and the other fingers can be pressed against the pressing part to apply force for easy disassembly. Attached Figure Description

[0036] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model, the drawings used in the following description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0037] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional view of the organism in Example 1;

[0038] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the first paper compartment in Example 1;

[0039] Figure 3 for Figure 2 Enlarged view of the marked area;

[0040] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the first paper tray installed in the machine body in Embodiment 1;

[0041] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the expansion component in Example 1;

[0042] Figure 6 for Figure 5 Enlarged view of the marked area;

[0043] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the fit between the expansion component and the main body in Example 1;

[0044] Figure 8 for Figure 7 Enlarged view of the marked area;

[0045] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly of the machine body and the second paper compartment in Example 1;

[0046] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the second paper compartment in Example 1;

[0047] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of another structure of the expansion component in Embodiment 1;

[0048] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of the expansion component in Example 2;

[0049] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the expansion component in Example 2;

[0050] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the structure at the pressing part in Embodiment 2;

[0051] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of the snap-fit ​​component in Example 2;

[0052] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly of the expansion component and the main body in Example 2;

[0053] Figure 17 for Figure 16 Enlarged view of the area marked with a center mark.

[0054] Explanation of key figure labels:

[0055] Machine body 1; container 11; inlet 111; first guide groove 12; inlet 121; snap-fit ​​plate 13; first clearance hole 131; positioning hole 14; first paper tray 2; first guide rail 21; first abutment part 211, connecting part 212; second abutment part 213; expansion part 3; first support part 31; second guide groove 311; elastic hook 312; abutment slope 3121; second clearance hole 313; positioning shaft 314; second support part 32; first support member 33; second support member 34; connecting rod 35; snap-fit ​​part 36; claw 361; abutment slope 3611; pressing part 362; biasing member 37; second paper tray 4; second guide rail 41; expansion space 5; up and down direction 6. Detailed Implementation

[0056] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are preferred embodiments of the present utility model and should not be considered as excluding other embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present utility model without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present utility model.

[0057] Unless otherwise expressly defined, the use of terms such as "first," "second," or "third" in the claims, description, and drawings of this utility model is for distinguishing different objects and not for describing a specific order.

[0058] Unless otherwise expressly defined, in the claims, description, and accompanying drawings of this utility model, the use of directional terms such as "center," "lateral," "longitudinal," "horizontal," "vertical," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "clockwise," and "counterclockwise" to indicate orientation or positional relationships is based on the orientation and positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and is only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and is not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as limiting the specific scope of protection of the invention.

[0059] Unless otherwise expressly defined, the terms "fixed connection" or "fixed connection" used in the claims, description and drawings of this utility model shall be interpreted broadly to refer to any connection in which there is no displacement or relative rotation relationship between the two parties, including non-removable fixed connection, detachable fixed connection, integral connection and fixed connection through other devices or components.

[0060] In the claims, description and accompanying drawings of this utility model, the terms "comprising", "having", and variations thereof are used to mean "including but not limited to".

[0061] refer to Figures 1-17 A printer includes a body 1, a first paper tray 2, an expansion component 3, and a second paper tray 4.

[0062] refer to Figure 1 The main body 1 is the main working part of the printer, on which paper feed rollers, printheads, etc. can be installed. A groove 11 is provided in the middle of the main body 1, opening downwards. This downward opening reduces the material used in the main body 1, thus reducing weight and cost, and also facilitates the installation of the second paper tray 4. An inlet 111 is provided in the groove 11 along a first direction for the first paper tray 2 and the second paper tray 4 to slide into. In this embodiment, the first direction is perpendicular to the vertical direction 6. Both sides of the groove 11 have a first guide slide located on its lower side. In this embodiment, the first guide slide has a first guide groove 12, which has openings on the front and sides. The opening of the first guide groove 12 near the inlet 111 (the front opening) is an inlet 121. The inlet 121 gradually decreases in size along the direction away from the inlet 111. In this embodiment, the vertical dimensions of the inlet 121 gradually decrease.

[0063] refer to Figure 8The body 1 is also provided with a first latching part, which is a latching plate 13. In this embodiment, the latching plate 13 is provided with a first clearance hole 131 extending in the vertical direction 6. The body 1 is provided with a first positioning part, which is a positioning hole 14 extending in the vertical direction 6.

[0064] refer to Figures 2-4 The first paper tray 2 is typically a small tray with a limited paper capacity. The first paper tray 2 is equipped with structures such as a paper lifting mechanism, which will not be described in detail here. The first paper tray 2 has a second guide slide located on its lower side. "Lower side" means that the distance from the second guide slide to the bottom surface of the first paper tray 2 is less than the distance from the second guide slide to the top surface of the first paper tray 2. The second guide slide is slidably connected to the first guide slide along a first direction, allowing the first paper tray 2 to enter the receiving groove 11. When the first paper tray 2 enters the receiving groove 11, the bottom surface of the first paper tray 2 is flush with or higher than the bottom surface of the machine body 1 to prevent the first paper tray 2 from being subjected to the weight of the machine body 1. The second guide slide is a first guide rail 21, which slidably engages with the first guide groove 12. In this embodiment, the first guide rail 21 has a first abutment portion 211, a connecting portion 212, and a second abutment portion 213. The connecting portion 212 is inclined relative to the vertical direction 6 to allow for slight deformation. Furthermore, the upper and lower ends of the connecting part 212 are respectively connected to the first abutting part 211 and the second abutting part 213, and the first abutting part 211 and the second abutting part 213 abut against the upper and lower groove walls of the first guide groove 12 to prevent shaking.

[0065] Of course, in other embodiments, the first guide slide portion may be the first guide groove 12, and the second guide slide portion may be the first guide rail 21 that slides with the first guide groove 12.

[0066] refer to Figures 4-6 The expansion component 3 is installed at the bottom of the body 1. The expansion component 3 has a first support portion 31 and a second support portion 32 suitable for supporting the body 1. The first support portion 31 and the second support portion 32 are spaced apart to form an expansion space 5 communicating with the downward opening of the accommodating groove 11. (Reference) Figure 11 The first support part 31 and the second support part 32 can be set separately. Specifically, the expansion component 3 includes a first support part 33 and a second support part 34 set separately. The first support part 33 and the second support part 34 are respectively provided with the first support part 31 and the second support part 32 so as to achieve separate installation.

[0067] refer to Figure 5The first support portion 31 and the second support portion 32 can also be integrally formed for simultaneous installation and disassembly. Specifically, the expansion member 3 also includes a connecting rod 35, with both ends of the connecting rod 35 connected to the first support portion 31 of the first support member 33 and the second support portion 32 of the second support member 34, respectively. In this embodiment, the connecting rod 35 is connected to the first support portion 31 and the second support portion 32 by screws. In other embodiments, the connecting rod 35, the first support portion 31, and the second support portion 32 can be integrally formed.

[0068] refer to Figure 5 Both the first support portion 31 and the second support portion 32 are provided with a third guide slide portion. In this embodiment, the third guide slide portion is a second guide groove 311. The second guide groove 311 and the first guide groove 12 have the same structure. The second guide groove 311 has openings on the front and side. The second guide groove 311 has an inlet 121 on the side near the inlet 111. The size of the inlet 121 gradually decreases along the direction away from the inlet 111. In this embodiment, the vertical size of the inlet 121 gradually decreases.

[0069] refer to Figure 6 Both the first support portion 31 and the second support portion 32 are provided with a second engaging portion, which is an elastic hook 312. A second clearance hole 313 is provided on the deformation path of the elastic hook 312 to provide clearance for the deformation of the elastic hook 312. Similarly, the first clearance hole 131 also provides clearance for the deformation of the elastic hook 312. The elastic hook 312 is provided with an abutting inclined surface 3121, which is inclined relative to the vertical direction 6.

[0070] refer to Figure 8 During the process of the first clearance hole 131 of the snap-fit ​​plate 13 being fitted onto the elastic hook 312, the snap-fit ​​plate 13 abuts against the abutting inclined surface 3121 and cooperates with the inclined surface of the elastic hook 312 so that the elastic hook 312 deforms in the first clearance hole 131 and the second clearance hole 313. When the snap-fit ​​plate 13 passes over the elastic hook 312, the elastic hook 312 recovers under its own flexibility to snap with the snap-fit ​​plate 13 in the vertical direction 6. In order to reduce disassembly, when the elastic hook 312 and the snap-fit ​​plate 13 snap with each other, the surfaces that abut are both planes perpendicular to the vertical direction 6, thereby preventing easy disengagement when the machine body 1 is lifted directly in the vertical direction. Of course, in other embodiments, the surfaces that abut are both can be inclined surfaces to facilitate disengagement.

[0071] refer to Figure 8In this embodiment, since the abutting inclined surface 3121 is inclined relative to the vertical direction 6, the above-mentioned snapping process is achieved by the gravity of the body 1. That is, when the body 1 is placed on the first support part 31 and the second support part 32, the snapping plate 13 is snapped with the elastic hook 312, which facilitates installation. At the same time, the body 1 is supported by the first support part 31 and the second support part 32 and cannot move downward. In this embodiment, the snapping plate 13 is placed on the first support part 31 and the second support part 32 to be supported.

[0072] In other embodiments, the first snap-fit ​​part is an elastic hook 312, and the second snap-fit ​​part is a snap-fit ​​plate 13.

[0073] refer to Figure 8 To facilitate the engagement of the first and second locking parts, the first support part 31 and the second support part 32 are also provided with a second positioning part. The second positioning part is a positioning shaft 314 that is inserted into the positioning hole 14. The insertion and engagement of the positioning shaft 314 with the positioning hole 14 precedes the engagement of the locking plate 13 with the inclined surface of the elastic hook 312. Thus, under the guidance of the positioning hole 14 and the positioning shaft 314, the locking of the locking plate 13 with the elastic hook 312 is realized, which makes installation more convenient.

[0074] In other embodiments, the second positioning part is a positioning hole 14 and the first positioning part is a positioning shaft 314. In order to meet the requirement that the body 1 can still be used after the expansion part 3 is disassembled, preferably, when the first positioning part is a positioning hole 14 or the first positioning part is a positioning shaft 314, the positioning shaft 314 does not protrude from the bottom surface of the body 1 to prevent the first positioning part from being damaged by force.

[0075] Of course, in its embodiment, installation can also be achieved by the insertion and cooperation of the first positioning part and the second positioning part, but since no limit is formed in the vertical direction 6 (there is no first snap-fit ​​part and the second snap-fit ​​part), there is a risk that the body 1 will detach from the expansion part 3.

[0076] In the above, both the first support portion 31 and the second support portion 32 are provided with a second positioning portion and a second snap-fit ​​portion to ensure the installation effect. In some embodiments, only the first support portion 31 or the second support portion 32 may be provided with a second positioning portion and a second snap-fit ​​portion, or the first support portion 31 and the second support portion 32 may be provided with a second positioning portion and a second snap-fit ​​portion respectively.

[0077] refer to Figure 9 , Figure 10 The paper capacity of the second paper compartment 4 is greater than that of the first paper compartment 2. In this embodiment, this is manifested in that the height of the second paper compartment 4 is greater than the height of the first paper compartment 2 along the vertical direction 6. The second paper compartment 4 is provided with a fourth guide slide located on its lower side. Similarly, "lower side" means that the distance from the fourth guide slide to the bottom surface of the second paper compartment 4 is less than the distance from the fourth guide slide to the top surface of the second paper compartment 4.

[0078] The fourth guide slide is slidably connected to the third guide slide along the first direction so that the second paper tray 4 enters the trough 11 and the expansion space 5. When the second paper tray 4 enters the trough 11, the bottom surface of the second paper tray 4 is flush with or higher than the bottom surface of the machine body 1 to prevent the second paper tray 4 from being subjected to the gravity of the machine body 1.

[0079] The fourth guide slide is the second guide rail 41. The structure of the second guide rail 41 is the same as that of the first guide rail 21. The second guide rail 41 is also provided with a first abutment part 211, a connecting part 212 and a second abutment part 213. The connecting part 212 is inclined relative to the vertical direction 6, and its upper and lower ends are respectively connected to the first abutment part 211 and the second abutment part 213. The first abutment part 211 and the second abutment part 213 abut against the upper and lower groove walls of the second guide groove 311 respectively.

[0080] In other embodiments, the fourth guide slide is the second guide groove 311, and the third guide slide is the second guide rail 41.

[0081] In use, when the user needs to use the first paper tray 2, insert the first paper tray 2 into the machine body 1 until the first guide slide of the machine body 1 and the second guide slide of the first paper tray 2 are properly engaged, thus completing the installation. (Reference) Figure 8 Alternatively, when the user needs to use the second paper tray 4 (if the first paper tray 2 exists, it needs to be removed from the machine body 1), the machine body 1 is lifted so that the first positioning part on the machine body 1 corresponds to the second positioning part of the expansion component 3. Under the weight of the machine body 1, the second positioning part and the first positioning part begin to engage. Guided by the first and second positioning parts, the first and second locking parts begin to engage at an angle. The locking plate 13 abuts against the abutting inclined surface 3121 and engages with the inclined surface of the elastic hook 312, so that the elastic hook 312 deforms within the first clearance hole 131 and the second clearance hole 313. When the locking plate 13 passes over the elastic hook 312, the elastic hook 312 recovers under its own flexibility to engage with the locking plate 13 in the vertical direction 6. This achieves the installation of the expansion component 3 and the machine body 1. At this point, insert the second paper tray 4 into the machine body 1 until the third guide slide of the expansion component 3 and the fourth guide slide of the second paper tray 4 are in place, thus completing the installation.

[0082] Compared with the prior art, this embodiment has the following beneficial effects:

[0083] In one exemplary embodiment, a printer includes a body 1, a first paper tray 2, an expansion component 3, and a second paper tray 4. The body 1 has a receiving slot 11 for accommodating either the first paper tray 2 or a portion thereof accommodating the second paper tray 4. The receiving slot 11 has a downward opening to facilitate subsequent expansion for installation of the second paper tray 4.

[0084] The body 1 is provided with a first guide slide;

[0085] The first paper tray 2 is provided with a second guide slide on its lower side. The second guide slide is adapted to slide and connect with the first guide slide in a first direction so that the first paper tray 2 enters the receiving groove 11. The second guide slide is located on the lower side, with a low center of gravity, making it more stable. Furthermore, fewer functional components are usually required at the bottom, making it easier to install the second guide slide. It also allows the second guide slide to be set longer, resulting in better guiding and supporting effects.

[0086] If the second paper tray 4 is directly installed on the aforementioned body 1 (without the first paper tray 2), the paper capacity of the second paper tray 4 is greater than that of the first paper tray 2. This usually results in the second paper tray 4 being taller. Therefore, when placed on a table or other object, the second paper tray 4 protrudes from the bottom surface of the body 1, making it susceptible to damage due to the weight of the body 1, and also resulting in an unsightly appearance. An expansion component 3 is installed on the body 1. This expansion component 3 has a first support portion 31 and a second support portion 32 suitable for supporting the body 1. The first support portion 31 and the second support portion 32 are spaced apart to form an expansion space 5 communicating with the downward opening of the receiving slot 11. This expansion space 5, together with the receiving slot 11, accommodates the second paper tray 4. Both the first support portion 31 and the second support portion 32 have a third guide slide portion.

[0087] The second paper compartment 4 is provided with a fourth guide slide on its lower side. The fourth guide slide is adapted to slide and connect with the third guide slide along the first direction so that the second paper compartment 4 can enter the sump 11 and the expansion space 5. Similarly, the fourth guide slide is located on the lower side, with a low center of gravity, making it more stable. In addition, fewer functional components are usually required at the bottom, making it easier to install the fourth guide slide. It also allows the fourth guide slide to be made longer, resulting in better guiding and supporting effects.

[0088] In one exemplary embodiment, one of the first and second guide slide portions is a first guide rail 21, and the other is a first guide groove 12 that slides in conjunction with the first guide rail 21 to achieve a sliding connection and a supporting effect. One of the fourth and third guide slide portions is a second guide rail 41, and the other is a second guide groove 311 that slides in conjunction with the second guide rail 41 to achieve a sliding connection and a supporting effect.

[0089] The first guide rail 21 and / or the second guide rail 41 are provided with a first abutment 211, a connecting part 212 and a second abutment 213. The connecting part 212 is inclined relative to the vertical direction 6, and its upper and lower ends are respectively connected to the first abutment 211 and the second abutment 213. Since the connecting part 212 is inclined, it is allowed to undergo a certain amount of compression deformation in the vertical direction 6, so that the first abutment 211 and the second abutment 213 abut against the upper and lower groove walls of the first guide groove 12 or the second guide groove 311 respectively, thereby increasing friction, ensuring installation stability, and preventing the first paper tray 2 or the second paper tray 4 from exiting the machine body 1 during use.

[0090] In one exemplary embodiment, the first guide groove 12 and / or the second guide groove 311 are provided with an inlet 121 with a gradually decreasing size to facilitate the introduction of the first guide rail 21 or the second guide rail 41 for easy assembly.

[0091] In one exemplary embodiment, the expansion component 3 includes a first support component 33 and a second support component 34 that are separately configured. The first support component 33 and the second support component 34 are respectively provided with a first support portion 31 and a second support portion 32. When configured separately, the first support portion 31 and the second support portion 32 can be installed and disassembled independently without mutual interference during installation and disassembly. Furthermore, the first support portion 31 and the second support portion 32 are not connected together, which can reduce the volume and weight of the expansion component 3.

[0092] In one exemplary embodiment, the expansion member 3 further includes a connecting rod 35, with the two ends of the connecting rod 35 connected to the first support part 31 and the second support part 32 respectively, so that the first support part 31 and the second support part 32 are integrally set and can be installed together, resulting in higher installation efficiency.

[0093] In one exemplary embodiment, the body 1 is provided with a first engaging portion, and the first support portion 31 and / or the second support portion 32 are provided with a second engaging portion. One of the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion is an elastic hook 312, and the other is a engaging plate 13. The engaging plate 13 is adapted to engage with the inclined surface of the elastic hook 312 to deform the elastic hook 312. After the elastic hook 312 deforms, the engaging plate 13 is adapted to pass over the elastic hook 312, and the elastic hook 312 is adapted to return to its original position when the engaging plate 13 passes over, thus engaging with the engaging plate 13 in the vertical direction 6. This prevents the body 1 from easily disengaging from the first support portion 31 or the second support portion 32 in the vertical direction 6. The engaging process is achieved through the deformation force of the elastic hook 312 itself, which is simple and convenient. When the body 1 is positioned on the first support portion 31 and the second support portion 32, the engaging plate 13 engages with the elastic hook 312. The above installation process is completed by the weight of the body 1, making it even more convenient.

[0094] In one exemplary embodiment, the body 1 is provided with a first positioning part, and the first support part 31 and / or the second support part 32 are provided with a second positioning part. One of the first and second positioning parts is a positioning shaft 314 extending along the vertical direction 6, and the other is a positioning hole 14 that inserts into the positioning shaft 314, thereby completing the insertion and allowing the body 1 and the expansion member 3 to be positioned at their upper limits in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction 6. In some embodiments, the positioning guidance of the first and second positioning parts allows multiple snap-fit ​​plates 13 to simultaneously engage with the elastic hooks 312, making installation easier and more convenient.

[0095] Example 2

[0096] Unlike embodiment one, in this embodiment, the expansion component 3 is connected to the body 1 in a different way.

[0097] refer to Figures 12-17 In this embodiment, the expansion member 3 further includes a snap-fit ​​member 36 and a biasing member 37. The snap-fit ​​member 36 and the biasing member 37 are provided for both the first support portion 31 and the second support portion 32, and the first support portion 31 corresponds to one snap-fit ​​member 36 and two biasing members 37, and the second support portion 32 corresponds to one snap-fit ​​member 36 and two biasing members 37.

[0098] One snap-fit ​​connector 36 is rotatably connected to the first support part 31 about an axis perpendicular to the vertical direction 6, and the other snap-fit ​​connector 36 is rotatably connected to the second support part 32 about an axis perpendicular to the vertical direction 6.

[0099] refer to Figure 15 The latching member 36 has two latches 361, which are adapted to engage with the latching plate 13 in the vertical direction 6. The latches 361 have abutting inclined surfaces 3611, and the latching plate 13 is adapted to abut against these inclined surfaces to achieve an inclined engagement, thereby driving the latching member 36 to rotate so that the latching plate 13 can pass over the latches 361. The latching member 36 has a pressing part 362 located between the two latches 361, which is adapted to be pressed to cause the latching member 36 to rotate, thereby disengaging the latches 361 from the latching plate 13.

[0100] refer to Figure 13 , Figure 17 Located on one side of the first support portion 31, one end of the biasing member 37 acts on the first support portion 31, and the other end acts on the locking member 36, so that the locking claw 361 is adapted to reset when the locking plate 13 passes by, so as to engage with the locking plate 13 in the vertical direction 6. When the locking claw 361 and the locking plate 13 engage in the vertical direction 6, the surfaces that abut against each other are planes perpendicular to the vertical direction 6. Reference Figure 14 The pressing part 362 protrudes from the first support part 31, and there is a pressing space between the pressing part 362 and the first support part 31. The pressing part 362 is positioned towards the second support part 32. During disassembly, a hand can be inserted inside (between the first support part 31 and the second support part 32), with the thumb pressing against the outer wall of the expansion member 3 and the other fingers pressing against the pressing part 362 to apply force for easy disassembly. The biasing member 37 can be a spring, rubber, magnetic material, etc.

[0101] refer to Figure 13 , Figure 17 Located on one side of the second support portion 32, one end of the biasing member 37 acts on the second support portion 32, and the other end acts on the locking member 36, so that the locking claw 361 is adapted to reset when the locking plate 13 passes by, so as to engage with the locking plate 13 in the vertical direction 6. Reference Figure 14The pressing part 362 is exposed in the second support part 32, and there is a pressing space between the pressing part 362 and the second support part 32. The pressing part 362 is disposed towards the first support part 31.

[0102] The general installation principle of this embodiment is the same as that of Embodiment 1. The difference is that in this embodiment, the corresponding structure facilitates the disassembly of the expansion component 3, thereby making the printer more portable and reducing its weight. Furthermore, when installing the first paper tray 2, there is no large gap below the first paper tray 2, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. Specifically, the expansion component 3 can be disassembled by pressing the pressing part 362 to rotate the snap-fit ​​part 36. Moreover, when the first support part 31 and the second support part 32 are separately installed, the disassembly of the two parts is less likely to interfere with each other, making it more convenient.

[0103] Unlike the first embodiment, this embodiment has the following beneficial effects:

[0104] In one exemplary embodiment, the body 1 is provided with a first latching part, and the expansion member 3 further includes a latching member 36 and a biasing member 37. The latching member 36 is rotatably connected to the first support part 31 and / or the second support part 32 about an axis perpendicular to the vertical direction 6. One of the first latching part and the latching member 36 is a claw 361, and the other is a latching plate 13. The latching plate 13 is adapted to engage with the inclined surface of the claw 361 to make the latching member 36 rotate. One end of the biasing member 37 acts on the first support part 31 or the second support part 32, and the other end acts on the latching member 36, so that the claw 361 is adapted to reset when the latching plate 13 passes by, so as to latch with the latching plate 13 in the vertical direction 6, thereby preventing the body 1 from easily disengaging from the first support part 31 or the second support part 32 in the vertical direction 6. The rotation of the locking element 36 allows the locking plate 13 and the claw 361 to avoid each other, preventing damage caused by direct deformation. The locking element 36 can also be made of a high-hardness material to ensure strength. By applying force through the biasing element 37, it can automatically return to the locking state, making it more convenient.

[0105] In one exemplary embodiment, the latching member 36 is provided with a pressing part 362, which protrudes from the first support part 31 or the second support part 32. The pressing part 362 is adapted to rotate the latching member 36 when pressed, so that the latching claw 361 disengages from the latching plate 13, thereby allowing the machine body 1 to disengage from the expansion member 3, thus making the printer portable and reducing its weight. When the first paper tray 2 is installed, there will be no large gap under the first paper tray 2, making it more aesthetically pleasing.

[0106] In one exemplary embodiment, the pressing portion 362 located on the first support portion 31 or the second support portion 32 is arranged facing the other, so that the pressing portion 362 is not exposed on the outer surface of the expansion member 3, which is more aesthetically pleasing.

[0107] The foregoing description of the specifications and embodiments is intended to explain the scope of protection of this utility model, but does not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this utility model. Modifications, equivalent substitutions, or other improvements to the embodiments of this utility model or a portion thereof that can be obtained by those skilled in the art through logical analysis, reasoning, or limited experimentation, based on the teachings of this utility model or the foregoing embodiments, should all be included within the scope of protection of this utility model.

Claims

1. A printer, characterized in that: include The body (1) is provided with a receiving groove (11), which opens downward and is provided with a first guide slide; An expansion component (3) is installed on the body (1) and has a first support portion (31) and a second support portion (32) suitable for supporting the body (1). The first support portion (31) and the second support portion (32) are spaced apart to form an expansion space (5) communicating with the downward opening of the accommodating groove (11). Both the first support portion (31) and the second support portion (32) are provided with a third guide slide portion. A first paper tray (2) is provided with a second guide slide portion located on its lower side. The second guide slide portion is adapted to slide in a first direction with the first guide slide portion so that the first paper tray (2) enters the receiving groove (11); or The second paper compartment (4) has a paper capacity greater than that of the first paper compartment (2). It is provided with a fourth guide slide on its lower side. The fourth guide slide is adapted to slide in a first direction with the third guide slide so that the second paper compartment (4) can enter the trough (11) and the expansion space (5).

2. A printer as described in claim 1, characterized in that: One of the first guide slide and the second guide slide is a first guide rail (21), and the other is a first guide groove (12) that slides with the first guide rail (21). One of the fourth guide slide and the third guide slide is a second guide rail (41), and the other is a second guide groove (311) that slides with the second guide rail (41). The first guide rail (21) and / or the second guide rail (41) are provided with a first abutting part (211), a connecting part (212) and a second abutting part (213). The connecting part (212) is inclined relative to the vertical direction (6), and its upper and lower ends are respectively connected to the first abutting part (211) and the second abutting part (213). The first abutting part (211) and the second abutting part (213) abut against the upper and lower groove walls of the first guide groove (12) or the second guide groove (311).

3. A printer as described in claim 2, characterized in that: The first guide groove (12) and / or the second guide groove (311) are provided with inlet (121) with gradually decreasing size.

4. A printer as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The expansion component (3) includes a first support component (33) and a second support component (34) that are separately arranged. The first support component (33) and the second support component (34) are respectively provided with the first support portion (31) and the second support portion (32).

5. A printer as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The expansion component (3) also includes a connecting rod (35), the two ends of which are connected to the first support part (31) and the second support part (32), respectively.

6. A printer as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The body (1) is provided with a first latching part, and the first support part (31) and / or the second support part (32) are provided with a second latching part. One of the first latching part and the second latching part is an elastic hook (312), and the other is a latching plate (13). The latching plate (13) is adapted to cooperate with the inclined surface of the elastic hook (312) to deform the elastic hook (312). The elastic hook (312) is adapted to recover when the latching plate (13) passes by, so as to latch the latching plate (13) in the vertical direction (6). The body (1) is adapted to latch the latching plate (13) with the elastic hook (312) when it is located on the first support part (31) and the second support part (32).

7. A printer as described in claim 1 or 6, characterized in that: The body (1) is provided with a first positioning part, and the first support part (31) and / or the second support part (32) are provided with a second positioning part. One of the first positioning part and the second positioning part is a positioning shaft (314) extending in the vertical direction (6), and the other is a positioning hole (14) that is inserted into the positioning shaft (314).

8. A printer as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The body (1) is provided with a first snap-fit ​​part, and the expansion part (3) further includes a snap-fit ​​part (36) and a biasing part (37). The snap-fit ​​part (36) is rotatably connected to the first support part (31) and / or the second support part (32) about an axis perpendicular to the vertical direction (6). One of the first snap-fit ​​part and the snap-fit ​​part (36) is a claw (361), and the other is a snap-fit ​​plate (13). The snap-fit ​​plate (13) is adapted to cooperate with the inclined surface of the claw (361) to make the snap-fit ​​part (36) rotate. One end of the biasing part (37) acts on the first support part (31) or the second support part (32), and the other end acts on the snap-fit ​​part (36) so that the claw (361) is adapted to reset when the snap-fit ​​plate (13) passes by, so as to snap with the snap-fit ​​plate (13) along the vertical direction (6).

9. A printer as described in claim 8, characterized in that: The snap-fit ​​member (36) is provided with a pressing part (362), which is exposed in the first support part (31) or the second support part (32). The pressing part (362) is adapted to rotate the snap-fit ​​member (36) when pressed, so that the claw (361) disengages from the snap-fit ​​plate (13).

10. A printer as described in claim 9, characterized in that: The pressing part (362) located on the first support part (31) or the second support part (32) is positioned facing the other.

Images